In past years, I have joined gyms, taken weightlifting and aerobics classes in college, and even sent away for DVDs on pilates and yoga. I tend to get bored, and then I fall off somewhere down the line. Currently, my workout plan consists of a combination of walking (with my dog), occasional jaunts on the treadmill, and Jillian Michaels’ 30 Day Shred. I heard about the Shred from several sources including the fabulous, Miss Meatball. I’ve since fallen in love with it, and try my best to “shred it” when I can. I’ve gotten great results, but I often lack motivation. Case in point, I’ve had the DVD for over 30 days, and I haven’t made it past the first level (there are three levels). I know I can do better.
So, hive, I want to discuss two things with you:
1) How do you keep yourself on track? Do you bribe yourself with rewards? Do you work out with friends or your FI? I have noticed that not having teammates or a college buddy to keep me motivated has made me less accountable, and therefore it’s easier for me to skip workouts.
2) I am still on a quest to create my ultimate workout regimen. What works best for you? Are you a walker/jogger/runner? Do you swear by yoga? Do you bike to work? How are you getting and/or keeping yourself in shape?
-J.Darling
For what it’s worth, I’ve gone from around 275lbs to the 180’s and I’ve kept it pretty solid for years, despite a hornomal disorder that LOVE’s to keep weight on. I’m going to put up a post on my Wellness blog today for ya about what’s worked for me. You’ve inspired me! 🙂 Thanks!
Getting the party started
I am exactly like you – used to be super athletic in college and now avoid exercise like mad. I have 2 tips that keep me going:
1. Twice a week I do yoga with a friend and a teacher. If she doesn’t show, I have to do the session by myself, which is AWFUL, so we made a pact never to stand each other up. If we’re going to cancel, we have to let the other one know before dinner time the day before so that we can cancel the session. That does wonders for keeping you going.
2. Twice a week I go to the gym before work. I have a deal with myself: If I don’t feel like exercising, I have to go anyway. If, when I get there, I still don’t feel like it, I’m allowed to just shower and go straight to the office. But 9 times out of 10, once I’m actually in the gym I decide working out wouldn’t be so bad after all…