Did I mention I started walking again? Finally? Baby steps, really, but at least it’s progress. One of my colleagues, who is also a friend, is helping to motivate me, along with herself. It’s only 15 minutes after lunch, but it’s better than the big fat nothing which it’s been for far, far too long. We actually started 2 weeks ago… we managed 2 days, and then I got sick. And then she got sick.
But now, no excuses, every day, even if one of us isn’t there and even if it’s raining, which it was today. There are a couple of other people who have said they want to go, too, but honestly, it’s easier just with two, and two who are really committed. I have my walking shoes at work (though I either have to start bringing them back and forth every day, OR buying another pair so I can walk at home, too), so there are NO EXCUSES.
I moved the treadmill out of hibernation this weekend too and made a start walking at home, as well. Went for a walk on Saturday with both kids in the beautiful fall weather, and yesterday I walked for nearly half an hour on the treadmill. I even bought a DVD box set so I’d have something new to watch while I walk: more motivation.
I’ve also started standing more at work. I had actually started a couple of weeks ago, because of my stupid shoulder. We had an off-site team meeting last Wednesday that was really fun and the guest speaker my boss had arranged was very timely. A woman who is a physical therapist, life and nutrition coach. She talked about how bad it is to sit as much as we all do nowadays and encouraged us to find ways to get more active.
I put the desk up before I leave in the evening and in the mornings, when I arrive, I stand for the first hour of work. During the day, I try to stand for at least another hour’s worth as well, and my goal is to eventually be able to stand at least half the work day. My entire team is helping to encourage and remind each other as well. Sometimes, as soon as one of my roommate’s desks goes up, the other two will rise. Then we’ll all stand for awhile before someone finally gets tired and sits again. Although, there is a lot of nudging about taking the stairs (we’re on the 4th floor), I’ve not been able to start that yet…my knees won’t take it. I’m hoping that as I get more endurance with walking and standing, I can start that as well.
One of the AWC members who had organized an online diet & exercise group last year is doing it again and sent me an invitation, but I’ve learned my lesson. I tried it, but it’s too much for me to do it that way, and actually de-motivating, watching & listening to everyone else talk endlessly about weight and weight loss and exercise. I have to do it my way, or it just doesn’t happen.
Now I just need to work portion control into the mix, and maybe I’ll finally see some results. 🙂
Views from the walk
