Current Issues

So I was out doing my run today and remembered I needed to post about our current topic of the month.  How perfect that I thought of it while I was running right?  So I will start this thread with a disclaimer: (You know it is going to be good when it is started with a disclaimer) I am in no way trying to be arrogant.  I do however want to set the bar high and challenge each of you!
Lots of people ask me how I have been such a success and I have one answer for them, EXERCISE!  It is a requirement people!  My doctor explained it like this at one of his seminars:  Think of this process as a stool.  There are three legs to this stool and if one of the legs is missing the stool will not support you.  One leg is your tool, one is diet, the other is exercise.  I took this analogy and changed it just a little.  Mine is a chair with four legs.  Still the same principle, if one leg is missing the chair will not hold you up.  My fourth leg is, of course, support groups but I digress.
What we are discussing here today is the exercise leg.  I have heard it time and time again, I don't have time, My back hurts, my knees hurt, etc...  You get the point.  If we look for an excuse we will find one.  When I started this process I started exercising from the beginning.  It hasn't always been easy but I do it.  When I first started walk/running my hips hurt so bad.  I kept it up and eventually guess what, my hips stopped hurting.  I just went and ran 6 miles with no problems.  I am NOT suggesting that everyone start running.  I know that people do have legitimate reasons for not being able to run one being that they don't like it.  Running isn't for everyone.  What I am suggesting is that you find something that requires movement.  Pick an amount of time (5 min, 10 min, 30 min).  Do that exercise for that amount of time at least once a week.  Each week challenge yourself.  Up the time, up the distance, do it more than once a week.  Whatever works best for you but do it.  Start today!

All that being said the question I want to ask is:
What do you plan on doing?

Commit yourself to yourself!
Love ya,
Jenn

Haven't gotten started? 

How to Get Started and Stick With It

For some of us out there, if we could just convince ourselves that there is enough time in the day to exercise, we could be on track to a great fitness program. For others, we get started but quickly lose momentum and give up. To help get started and stay on track, here are a few tips:

1.     Throw away the bathing suit you wore in high school… and the memory too. It’s normal to have a mental image of yourself when you last exercised like a fiend. But if that image is from high school, you could be in big trouble. Even if it’s from last year, forget it. Remember as little as possible of what you used to look like. Starting today, make new memories.
 

2.     Prepare. We already know you don’t have the time, so write it down like an appointment every day. You wouldn’t cancel an appointment, why would you cancel on yourself? Aren’t you important too?
 

3.     Start slowly. Do much less than what you’re capable of. Take a 20-minute walk if you’re returning to exercise. You might feel like it’s not enough, but it’s a good start.
 

4.     Get the family involved. Run while your daughter rides her bike. Go to a local track and let the kids play their own games. Run with your spouse. Sign up for a local 10K. Walk with your son. Celebrate with a little something special after every activity.
 

5.     Where are your friends? Four words, four reasons – motivation, inspiration, determination, conversation. Surround yourself with friends who think positive and live large.
 

6.     Put the pain in perspective. When the going gets tough, remember that you have survived 600 carpools, 540 loads of laundry (this month), 41 baseball games, 230 dinners and one family vacation. What’s the big deal?
 

7.     Allow yourself to slow down. You’re driving this bus! For the first time today, you are in control.
 

8.     Sign up for a race. It’s a goal to strive for and adds a little meaning to your everyday workout.
 

9.     Run/walk in public. Be proud of your accomplishment. Take in all the sites and be an inspiration to others.
 

10.   Just show up. Go to the gym, class, or the park. Once you’re there, it’s hard to say no. 98% of life is showing up.
 

11.   Eat. Follow a healthy eating pattern.  
 

12.   Understand your energy cycle. There are peaks during our days. Even during the week. Try to complete your workout when you feel good about yourself.
 

13.   Wallow in your greatness. You can exercise to become a better exerciser, or you can exercise to become a better mother, a better father, doctor, teacher, or a better friend – or you can exercise to become BETTER. Be proud of that accomplishment.
 

14.   Have fun. Where’s your childlike spirit? When you can make workouts "playouts," you’ve got it made.

Don’t give up on yourself. After all, it’s never too late.

5.     Where are your friends? Four words, four reasons – motivation, inspiration, determination, conversation. Surround yourself with friends who think positive and live large.

This was my favorite and I think the reason I am as successful as I have been.  Thanks for sharing.  I plan to print this out and keep it with me.

Love it!
Jenn