I never used to be a fan of exercise. In fact, up until recently I’ve actively avoided exercise whenever possible. However, I turned 30 this year and you know how “they” say that your metabolism slows as you age? Well, “they’re” right. I am progressively getting a little more jiggle in my stride. I’ve made some effort by replacing my morning breakfast with the “healthy shakes.” You know the ones that you have one for breakfast, one for lunch, and then a dinner that doesn’t consist of 2000 calories-worth of fried food? Except I really like eating a lot, and I love to cook, so I didn’t want to give up my lunch. I thought just a breakfast replacement would help at least a little! Unfortunately, no.
The Voice of Reason
The logical next step is to exercise. I am not an idiot, I realize how this all works. Eat less, move more. It’s pretty simple, right? It should be. Except that there is something inside me that has a personal vendetta against exercise. Oh, you’re going to “work out”? That’s nice. Nerd. Running is stupid.
But, as I mentioned, I’ve turned 30 and since then I’ve become slightly more mature. Now I only have a slight inward snicker along with my superior anti-exercise snotitude. Along with it now comes a sneaking feeling that I am missing something. Maybe these people are onto something. So – this morning I tied on my sneakers (purchased for comfort and looks) and hit the walking trail with my sister-in-law.
You know what? It wasn’t so bad. We walked and talked for an hour while our kids played on the jungle gym in the center of the trail. And when we had to stop because our kids were starting to get antsy, I didn’t want to leave. I broke a sweat! Yay, Me!
Motivation: I can’t seem to get below a certain weight, and unless I want to become one of those government statistics about obese people, I better get my butt in gear. Don’t argue, you know it’s true if you listen to yourself. You make time to vacuum out your car or get your hair done. Make time to exercise.
Commitment: I made an “appointment” if you will. I contacted my sister-in-law last week and set a time, then we confirmed it again last night. When you have it set on a certain day at a certain time – write it on your calendar or save it in your phone. It is just as important as showing up on time for your gynecologist appointment. It’s for your own good, don’t waste anyone’s time. Get in there and get it over with!
Good Company (or no company): I like my sister-in-law. She’s not an exercise freak either, we have tons to talk about. If you prefer to be alone, make that happen. Don’t go somewhere where you are bound to run into people you know. Get “off the beaten path” so to say.
Enjoyment: In case you missed my earlier comment, I hate running. Walking – I can do. Choose an activity that you can get into. There are all types of exercise. Try different things until you find one that floats your boat.
Convenience: I’m lucky enough to live near a nice park with a nice playground and my son is old enough to climb around on his own without me worrying about him eating rocks or anything like that. If you don’t have kids – even more of a reason to get out and enjoy your free time! If there isn’t something near you – try the sidewalk, or the road, or walk around your house. Use disadvantage to your advantage so that you can feel clever and superior when you figure something out!
What have we learned today, boys and girls? Maybe all this exercise-ey business isn’t so bad after all. If you have good company, good weather, and something to do with your kids. Now please excuse me, I have a plate of tacos to finish.