Fitness

I have looked into joining a gym recently, but have decided since I do have a number of things available to me for "free" that I should invest a bit into learning how to use these properly and then just go for it. I currently participate in volleyball and Aquafit, but need to increase my activity level. I have purchased a set of free weights, ab roller, exercise ball, a number of videos etc... my problem is - how do I use it all? I also have acess to some great equipment at my work... but again, how do I use it? There is a treadmill, recumbent bike, weights, eliptical trainer etc... PLUS the fitness room at my work is open at my disposal at any time! So, I searched for someone to work with me a few times to teach me proper techniques and exercises I can do to help me in this journey. I have found a personal trainer who charges $25 an hour - so I figure even if it costs me $100-$200, in the long run I am saving money. My tentative surgery date is May 8, so the goal is to have my learning/training finished so that once I get the "OK" to start exercising after surgery there will be nothing holding me back! I start working with him April 4th!!! I am also looking at finding some good posters/charts to hang to remind me of proper te*****ue and form - recommendations are welcomed!

Hmm, I know Good Life Fitness (or even the YMCA) has these packages where you can just pay 2-4$ and attend 1 class. You could probably learn a lot of 'moves' and eventually make it a routine. That's what my friend and I did and it worked out great. I am definitely going to re-join the gym onces I feel better. Summer is the best time to join because it's so quiet then..and they have good specials!

I've found lots of info searching the net, usually at medical equipment manufacterers (www.Therabandacademy.com) or at weight lifting sites. If you search on the specifics, like the ball, you can get lots of ideas. I've seen some good sites with moving pictures, but can't remember what the address is. Sorry. Anyways, kudos to you for getting the ball rolling so to speak ;)

There should be videos that go along with the ball. Mine came with one and there are others available for purchase for like $15 each. I LOVE my ball...I can't say that enough. My surgical center had me meet with a trainer that they employ twice before I was even approved and he made up a workout schedule for me with the balance ball and the elastic bands. I use those two days a week and go to the Y two days a week for cardio. He said that the ball and bands will be the first thing I will want to use after surgery, so I am excited that I won't even have to leave my house for those. Best of luck to you and bravo for getting your plan together now!!!