Fourth leg of Summer Tour '06: Exercise!

Hello all, I hope everyone is doing well and is having a great summer. In our attempts to be the best we can be when our August anniversaries arrive, we've been reviewing the four aspects of post-WLS life. The last one to cover is perhaps the most controversial, and the one that inspires the most emotion in people: exercise. Exercise is obviously one of the very best things anyone can do for his/her body. Cardio exercise oxygenates the blood, strengthens our endurance, and causes a rush of endorphins that chips and chocolate cannot compete with. Weight training increases our muscle mass, which helps us burn more calories all day long. Additionally, our bones are made stronger by strength training. The list of benefits goes on and on, and we all know the scoop. However, exercise can evoke some nasty emotions as well: Memories of not being able to keep up with the other kids in gym class at school; the pain associated with exercising beyond our means; comparisons of our bodies to leaner, fitter, stronger ones. I personally find that getting out there (to the gym or outdoors to walk) is about 90% of the battle. Once I'm "there," I am committed to doing the exercise. But I can come up with 100 excuses not to do it. Once I am done exercising, though, I can rest my mind, knowing that I have done the best I can for my body that day. If I follow up with relatively decent eating choices, along with water and vitamins, I know I've done my end of the deal. And that's a great feeling. So get out there and exercise. Start slowly if you're not used to it; add a little to your routine if you're currently exercising. It can provide you with some "me" time, or exercise with a buddy who can keep you accountable and with whom you enjoy spending time. We all know the drill, at nearly two years out. It's just a matter of implementing it. Much easier said than done, but so worthwhile. So now, we've covered the four post-WLS musts: 1) water 2) vitamins 3) protein 4) exercise Let's soar this summer, and be the best we can be not only for our August anniversaries but for as long as possible. We're here to support each other! Take care, Kathryn

Hi Kathryn, you have done a great job covering the 4-post WLS must. The fourth one has been my strength. I love to exercise. I walk to and from work all the time. I walk my kids to school every morning. I do my exercise bike every evening also. I also do strength exercise with weights. So far so good at this point in my life. My problem at this moment is trying to not over exercise to lose more weight. I want to be in shape but not lose more weight. If there is any suggestions I would kindly accept them.