Okay, okay...it's really Friday! We've had such a nice, relaxing spring break that I would like to pretend it's Thursday today.
I have this love/hate relationship with exercise. I believe I'm one of those people who do not lose weight when they exercise. That part is kinda depressing, I know. So, I start exercising and then see "no results" (aka number on the scale going down) and I give up.
This is a pep talk for myself as much as I hope to inspire others to get past their "number" and get moving!
Three Benefits of Exercise (at least for me):
#1 While the scale tells me I still weigh the same, I still feel and look smaller. Exercise tones all...well, some of the not-so-tone parts of my body. I move easier AND faster. The more I get up and move, the more I want to get up and move! It's a win-win!
#2 It's good for other important numbers. My family (men and women) has a history of heart disease. My dad died before he turned 50. So, I keep up on my cholesterol numbers. Last year, I had actually gained a couple of pounds from the year before, BUT I raised my HDL (good cholesterol) 12 POINTS!!! That is really hard to do, but I was exercising more than I am now. Exercise keeps my heart healthy!
#3 Exercise-It does the emotions good! Not only do I feel better physically when I have consistent exercise, but my emotions are more on an even keel. All those good brain chemicals that exercise releases make you feel good. I have more confidence in my body. I feel better about myself.
A friend (a very physically fit friend) told me recently "Get rid of your scale!" I didn't want to listen to her. I'm kinda compulsive about getting on that thing. But it is not my friend. It really is a sabotage agent from the realms of darkness. Well, that's a bit extreme, but you get the point. So, (for now) I will put away the scale and just keep on moving!
To clarify, here are my exercises of choice: Most days, walking and keeping track of steps with a pedometer (shooting for 10,000). I will throw in 30 mins of Tai Bo workout video and sometimes Tai Chi. With my IC, I have to be careful about what kinds of exercises I do.