Gym Time!

Outside of the difference in my eating habits, I had made a commitment to go to the gym 4 times per week and I would plan to go after work because I am not a morning person at all. I would perform some type of cardio each time for 45 to 60 minutes and that would be either walking/jogging, using the elliptical, or the stair stepping machine. Once I completed my cardio, I would move into strength training. When I first started out, I relied on the Body Space app to help me select a program to do. This app helps you search for programs based on your fitness level, what your goals are, and even provides videos of the proper form for each strength exercise. If you’re especially new to strength exercises, it may be best to complete the exercises without free weights and using your body weight only. By using your own weight, you will be able to get the feel and range of the motions before adding additional weight onto yourself.

Another thing that motivated me to continue working out was getting a FitBit. I love this tool because you can really see how all of your movement adds up. I’ve had 4 different FitBits now and it’s amazing how much it has evolved. My latest watch tracks my steps, miles walked, floors climbed, heart rate, sleep (including the quality of sleep), calories burned, and active minutes. It also has the option to track your food and water intake. One of my favorite features is the step reminder, I set my watch to remind me every hour over the course of 9 hours to get 250+ steps. You never realize how little you may be moving each hour and this feature really helps me to get up and moving. If you have friends that have FitBits, you can also take advantage of the challenges available where you’re essentially racing your friend(s) that you’re in a competition with. These challenges can be throughout the work week, the weekend, or you can compete on a virtual trail for distance. Working out can be so much easier if you have a friend doing it with you. When one lacks motivation then the other can motivate you to do something together therefore making it more fun and less boring.

As with any physical activity, you will want to make sure that you consult your physician before starting any exercise program or change in diet.

Cheers to your health,

Chelsea