Exercise: Something We Love to Hate

cbowen61991
Jun 7, 2024
2 min read

Nutrition is the biggest component to leading a healthy life, but one must also move. It keeps the blood flowing especially if you have a desk job such as myself. I've compiled a list of thoughts and resources from the last few months on my journey!

Be ok that it's going to be uncomfortable. When you're carrying an extra 100+ pounds, it's not exactly easy to do certain movements like jumping or walking up hills. Find something that's doable and as you become more active things will become easier. Also it's ok to say no. I personally don't like Yoga because of the way I hold my weight (hard to get in many positions) so I won't be doing a yoga class anytime soon.
Speaking of classes, they can help with motivation and the fun factor! It's easier to push yourself when you're surrounded by people doing the same thing. Make sure you don't judge yourself though; someone who is in their physical prime will make it look easy to keep up with the instructor and look perfect. You showed up so that's what counts!
Cardio isn't bad. This can come in the form of treadmills, walking or running on a track or outside on a trail (my favorite), hiking, swimming, the Pelaton, and more.
Don't kill yourself - 5 days a week is plenty. Ideally I would walk for 30+ min a day and strength train 2-3x weekly, but considering I used to exercise 1-3 times weekly, 5 is an improvement (as long as I strive for every day in the future!) Also, some movement is better than none. Sometimes we are fighting with ourselves mentally, or our body hurts, so a 15 minute walk might be what gets done.
Finally some resources:
- You can research local gyms or trainers in your area. I've heard good things about Orange Theory and 9Round but can get expensive, as well as The Works in Somersworth NH. A black card with Planet Fitness can be used in many states.
- There are many home workouts one can follow whether it's from Youtube or Pinterest. I'll like a few that I've used or want to in the future.
- Accounts to follow on IG:
  - Tara Laferrara https://www.instagram.com/taralaferrara?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
  - Danielle Pascente https://www.instagram.com/daniellepascente?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
  - Joey Swoll (does individual nutrition and workout plans via email, his social media is more about spreading gym positivity) https://www.instagram.com/joeyswoll?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
  - Patrick Wilson https://www.instagram.com/gainsbypat?igsh=a3ZiemhmOGpnNHJk