Wednesday, October 07, 2009

Lessons From the Gym

I'm trying, for the first time in my life, to become one of the after-work exercise legion. This, after nearly a year of a basically sedentary lifestyle. Here's what I've learned so far:

1. Getting back in shape and losing weight is harder than staying in shape (shocker, I know).

2. Burning 500 calories takes approximately 452 hours on the treadmill .

3. I basically have to stop every five minutes to catch my breath. And that embarrasses me.

4. I know I should start slow and not overdo it. I know it. But the little exercise devil on my right shoulder, who, depending on the day is either my old track coach, Ward Coates, or my sister, Nancy, makes me. They make me go until my feet are numb. And until I feel like I'm going to vomit.

5. As an avid Biggest Loser watcher, I have a slight superiority complex. I see the little skinny women maximize the grade on the machines and then grab onto/lean on the handle, thereby negating the benefit of the increase. I think, "Oh, this would not make Jillian happy, people!"

6. After exercising, my heart rate doesn't return to normal until 12 am.

7. I need a gym partner. We don't have to exercise together. We don't have to talk. You don't even have to like me. But if you could just meet me at the gym door everyday at 5:30 so I have to be accountable, I would really appreciate it.

8. While I really would rather exercise outside, it's still too hot. And there are too many mosquitoes. And this is why Texas still doesn't make sense to me.

9. I need new workout music. I've been listening to the same stuff with few changes for ummm....four years. Please send your suggestions my way. I've already got Rocky and the theme from Mission Impossible, which, by the way, are outstanding, so you don't need to suggest those.

10. Even though I've only worked out twice and it makes me soooooo tired, I already feel better. Like a bit of old Erin has returned. I like old Erin. She's a nice girl.

7 comments:

Kari McCallon said...

I would be your partner, because I need someone to hold me accountable too. but as any lazy person does.. I make excuses.. I am at work then so I can't. I'm so lazy. Good luck!! Where do you workout at?

Rondi said...

Give it some time, work slowly towards your goal, and you will reach a point where you will miss working out if you don't get to go. I promise you that will happen. You go girl.

April said...

Hey! I'm really not sure how I found your blog...but uh...I like it! And I'm now stalking you. We need to be friends.

Kristina P. said...

We bought an elliptical machine, and I love it. It's great to be able to do it at home and watch TV. I can even do it in pajama pants!

Jenn said...

Hi Erin! Have I ever mentioned that I love your blog and read it regularly? Well...I do. AND, remember when we used to be work-out-hold-ourselves-accountable partners at the Smith Fieldhouse? Ahh...those were the days. Except that was in the a.m. not the p.m. However, if it would help, you can pretend that I am still your work-out-hold-ourselves-accountable partner. In fact, I am starting the six week fitness challenge at work on Monday. Want to start with me? Love ya!

Erin said...

Welcome, new stalker April! I'm not going to lie, I love the stalkers. Mostly because I'm one myself!! You're the one that did Kristina's background, right? Not that I know Kristina personally - I found her through blog stalking! YAY for the Internet.

Jenn, I'm fired up about the six week fitness challenge. Except I'm scared, too. What do I have to do?

The Livingstones said...

i think every time you go to the gym, you should put a dollar in a jar. once you go for 30 days you get to spend it. on yourself. maybe you should have to take a dollar out every time you don't go, and send it to me.
i also like biggest loser, and i think jilian is a #$@#$#@ - but she gets the job done. if i had to work out with her, though, I might have to punch her. no one motivates me by telling me i'm lazy and fat. and an emotional wreck.