Exercise - when did you start, what did you do?

Hi all,

Other than walking and biking, what did you do for exercise and when did you start? I walk my dog, but I am not a "walker for exercise". I have to admit, I find walking for miles on end insanely boring!

I am excited to get out in the spring with my bike.

In the meantime, I am curious what you have done to add exercise to your routine. I am not sure I am emotionally ready yet, to be honest, but I feel like my body could really benefit from it. I feel like I am very out of shape, not just from being obese, but from recently having had 16 months of severe asthma and limited mobility as a result. That took a huge toll on me and I lost all sorts of capacity: muscle, cardio... :(

I really just can't do what I used to be able to do and it makes me sad, and it makes me feel, well, useless is the wrong word but I can't think of the right one.

I appreciate your ideas and inspiration! Thanks!!

I don't know what the time frame is for starting exercise but when you can start moving muscles and stuff I would recommend a nice easy beginner yoga. I have found that it helps me get in touch with my body and I also find it calming and meditative. If you can find the "right" class for yourself it could be the gateway to other exercise in the future. It will wake your body up. LOL

It will certainly help with flexibility and it's not high intensity to cause any issues with your asthma.

That's a great idea. I can look into that. :)

I walked on the treadmill for 45 mins a day starting at 2 weeks out. Wasnt cleared to life more than 5 lbs or do squats and stuff until 8 weeks out. Listen to your body but remember that healing is still happening internally. I did light weights, squats, wall planks, cardio and swimming. Stopped it all when i got pregnant

I would love to walk on the treadmill. Have been thinking of getting one. Will look into that.

Very admirable all that you did. :)

Check sites like Craigslist. There are lot of great treadmills that have had very little use. You can save lots of money.

A great suggestion!

Thanks! i cant wait to get back into it once my body is all healed up after i deliver my little man -- 9 weeks and counting!

Wow!! Almost there. :)

Walking your dog is a really good start. I have a couple border collies and they keep me going. I'm lucky to live right next to the transcanada trail, so walking is really pleasant. If you can take your dog somewhere you'd like to be for walks, that might help. I don't think in terms of how far I walk but for how long. So I go for an hour at a time where I can see the seasons change and smell clean air. Also, on a trail the dog can be off leash so we play fetch and that keeps it from being boring. Biking is also good for strenthing tendons around your knees.

if you're out of shape, three weeks exertion will get you ba k where you were. Start where you can and keep going.

Pauline