Question:
exercise & pity

I'm still struggling with my exercise class. It's Low Impact Aerobics. I keep moving even though I can barely perform the moves with the rest of the class. Side steps/hops/skips still hurt the knees/hip. My left arm/shoulder is still very sore too. BUT, I DO my modifications and continue to move, march, walk to the beat of the music for a solid hour twice a week! Here's the concern: I really don't want anyone's pity. I really wish the others in the class would just leave me alone. I don't need/want special treatment/attention because I'm fat & can't keep-up with the group's steps. (I marching to my own style since I can't do their side steps or get on my knees.) I just don't know how to re-direct them into leaving me alone. I am perfectly content to work-out at my level, doing whatever I can. I make it through the hour long class, working up a sweat and getting the use of my muscles. Any suggestions on what I can do/say just short of pissing-off my nosey class mates?    — rtmazyck (posted on December 13, 2007)

December 13, 2007
I was holding back a class, so I hired the trainer to work one on one with me and customize the time just to my needs and requirements. It was a bid of an expense, but the trainer worked with me and we have made good progress. Be glad they are not on your back for holding up the class. My classmates were not happy when it was obvious that I was holding things up. Bill
   — William (Bill) wmil

December 13, 2007
I'm sorry you have to be subjected to this, Robin, when you're trying to do the best you can at this time. It's too bad they can't remember how they were when they started! I've thought about your comments and questions, and I think if it were me I'd first check with the instructor and if I wasn't impacting the class I'd just keep doing my thing. I wouldn't be able to afford 1-on-1 instruction, so I'd either continue what I'm doing (knowing as I get stronger and lose weight I'll do better!) or find another group that isn't so opinionated. I'll bet you decided on taking control of your life knowing you may have to do so against the opinions of others, and this is just one step in that journey. Congratulations on perservering!
   — obeseforever

December 13, 2007
I am a little suprised that they are doing hops and skips in a low impact aerobics class. Generally that is not very low impact. That said I would talk to the instructor and let them know that you feel you are being singled out is a bad way. A good instructor will reinforce to the group that everyone needs to be working at their own level and they should be focused on their own work outs. To individuals that persist say, something like, I may not be exactly following the instructors steps but I am following my Doctors instructions. I appreciate your encouragement before or after class. but I need to focus on my work out and not be distracted during class. Congrats on all your efforts to keep moving. Amy
   — Radgalut