exercise options

Hi Folks,
I just wanted to share a few thoughts on how my life has been going. One of my goals has been to step out of the shadows/sidelines and participate in more activities. Despite the fear factor of trying the  unknown, This past month I signed up through the local nightschool for the following classes: country linedancing, soul linedancing, and ice skating. The dancing classes have been going on for the past 2 weeks, and have been alot of fun. As much a mental challenge to learn the step patterns as well as the aerobic workout. Last night I had the first ice skating lesson. I really hesitated over this choice, I'm now 50, and haven't skated since I was around 10 or 12 yrs. old. If I broke a bone I'd be in ho****er to pay bills etc. I had a blast! While I'm not ready to sign up with the ice capades, I didn't fall, and after about 20 min. my legs loosened up and it was alot smoother and not so fatiguing to practice the different patterns/steps we were taught. Skating uses your leg muscles in a very different way than walking or line dancing does. Moral of this story, this past week I have kayaked in Assateague, linedanced and iceskated, in addition to walking my dogs for my exercise. This has kept my exercise much more interesting, I've met some nice people, have challenged myself to learn a new activity, and have overcome the fear of trying something new.  I encourage everyone to try something new, don't live in a comfortable rut!
Chris

Chris,

GREAT ideas and soooo glad you found such enjoyment out of those activities.  I had never even thought of ice skating before - but have wanted to try roller blading again.   Your ice skating idea made me think...I might actually try it.

Something else I've been considering, is dancing.  i would prefer to take a couples class if Bri is up to it - but have been contemplating doing something like tap which I did when I was, oh, I don't know...4  Fear has been holding me back because I just don't think I can do it - but I just might!!

Way to go!!  You've had a busy week!

Pam

Pam,
Dancing with your hubby would be a great way to spend quality time together, and tap is something I might try in the future too. Go for it. By the way, my sister works weekend days at Lehigh in the burn unit. What shift and which area did you get hired for?
Chris

I will eventually be working 7p-7a in the ER the first 8-12 weeks minimum however will be on days for orientation and what not and classroom stuff.  I start 11/3

Pam

That is soo cool... and you should be proud of yourself for taking such leaps!! You are going to be one hot mama on the dance floor once you are done with your lessons hehehe!

Thanks shannon,
Sometimes it is just so hard to push yourself out of that comfort zone, but I have to admit, when I have stretched myself, I have never been dissappointed .
Chris

Good for you Chris!  I don;'t remember if it was Jackie or Nicole that started that post a while ago about getting out there and doing things we always wanted to do...and mentioned adult night school classes.  I have to thank who ever that was because it prompted me to step outside the box and try what I always wanted to.  3 weeks ago I started a pottery class and this week I started Karate.  I recently got rid of a lot of crap in my life and now I am filling it with some really great things.  The pottery is fun, but I am LOVING the karate. 

Heather

Heather,
Nice quote. I'm glad that you are decluttering your life and have found some new fun activities to enrich your life. Karate is a big challenge, a great workout for your mind and body. I wish you success.
Chris

Awesome for you for being brave enough to step outside of your comfort zone and try something new - I have always loved to dance but stopped when I got so stinking fat - now that I'm shrinking a bit I just might give it a go again! Think skating of any kind is out for me since I have bionic knees, but I am asking my husband for a bike for Christmas - I actually DREAM about riding a bike again - one of those big old beach bikes - and my neighbor said she'd ride with me.

Enjoy your newfound freedom and activities!!!

Kathy

Kathy,
I hope Santa brings you a bike for xmas, but you might find it easier on your knees to get one that has a few different speeds/geers. My bike is like a beach bike, but has 6 speeds and is much easier to ride. I bought mine at Walmart.
Chris