Exercise is important to me.The benefits are too many to list in one blog post (lowers blood pressure and cholesterol, reduces risk of all kinds of cancers and diseases, more energy, better self-esteem, improved appearance, etc.).
I've been thinking about how to best fit fitness into my life. My calendar is already overflowing with my marriage, my baby, my friends and family, working, blogging, reading, volunteering, cooking, laundry, grocery shopping, the list goes on.
Before I go on, I must say that I am relatively healthy compared to the norm. I walk for 20-30 minutes every day. I rarely drink soda (as in, once every six months). I avoid excessive sugar. I drink A LOT of water. We "eat in" almost every night. We don't watch TV. And, of course, I chase my toddler around the house.
But I don't get the kind of heart-pumping, muscle-building work-out that I should. I used to play on a womens soccer league, but I don't think that's feasible now (too much on the calendar). I considered a gym membership for about a millisecond, but I think most gyms are overrated (dirty, unimaginative, embarrassing...I'll save that for another post). We had a treadmill, but we sold it on CraigsList (too boring).
I think the best option is probably running. Yep, good old-fashioned fitness. Low expenditure (good running shoes), high return.
Now, if I can only fit it in...more on this on another day...
(Photo by: timtak)
4 comments:
I was just thinking about this very thing today. I don't exercise. Period. Unless you count running around after my three kids (especially my 2 year old). The funny thing is, I am at the lowest weight I have ever been (107) but I feel so sluggish and BLAH. I know that exercising would help me in that respect. I finally sat down today and wrote out a detailed schedule for when I can get in at least 30 minutes on the treadmill. Now if I can get my youngest to go to bed on time, it'll all work out ;-)
Fitness is very important to me and my family too. You would really be surprised on how many calories you are burning each day from just doing "Mommy Duties" I feel the best when I take walks with the kiddos while they are hanging out in their stroller. I lost most of my "baby weight" by walking up hill with the stroller that (with the kids) weighs over 50lbs. Have you ever tried pilates?
Melissa - I, too, actually weigh less now than pre-pregnancy. It must be a combination of breastfeeding, healthy eating habits, and chasing around our little "explorer!" :) Still, I'm hoping to "up" my cardiovascular health and build some muscle tone.
Anonymous - I've tried Pilates DVDs, but I have a hard time getting into "the fitness video thing." Still, if you have a particular DVD that you love, can you post the title? Maybe I'll try it...
Have you tried Stroller Strides?
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