Today, I took a spin class again. I really really really like how I feel after a spin class. There are times DURING spin, that I HATE it. But when I can monitor my heartrate and keep myself from going too high or letting myself coast too low, I get a fabulous cardio workout that makes me feel great for hours afterward.
I've been trying to schedule an appointment with a new trainer for the past 3 days. There's always been some kind of problem: the web server wasn't working when I tried to schedule it online, the training manager wasn't in when I went in and the counter person didn't know how to schedule me, I was told to find the trainer after her session (and my spin class) to speak directly with her... she disappeared. No sign of her. SOooo..... I decided to call my other trainer. Instead of the cowardly way out - switching trainers without even really discussing it with my current trainer, I called her and told her where I really am, mentally, physically, emotionally.
It was a great call. She encouraged me to do the cardio... at least 5 days a week. Not as a tool to lose weight. Not instead of training. But in order to maintain the positive mental attitude that cardio brings me.
Interestingly enough, my trainer has dealt with depression in her life too. PTSD, as well. She combats her issues with cardio since the body produces more seratonin or something like that during exercise. The happy hormone. :) Talking with her confirmed my thoughts on how I NEED to do cardio multiple days a week. I can't let my lack of progress with weight training affect my cardio. My weight training will improve over time and the positive energy and attitude I get from cardio will help me do it faster.
That said, I am going to continue on with T. She knows that I am still struggling a little with depression (over my cat, I know I know... I have 2 new kitties to distract me, but I still miss my Daisy girl). She knows that I allow the weight training to intimidate me and she knows that I have been wallowing in my own discouragement. She encouraged me to list the pros of cardio/exercise so that on days when I feel discouraged, I can look at my list and remind myself of why I need to get to it! Here it goes:
Reasons to do cardio:
1. I actually feel like I have more energy after a good cardio workout.
2. I like the way I physically feel after I make myself work hard enough to drip sweat (gross I know, but it's fulfilling to know I can push myself to that level - without hurling) almost as if the vigorous sweating is forcing out negative toxins. (maybe it is)
3. Even though I can see the extra weight I still carry, after working out, I feel more attractive.
4. It's good for my heart.
5. I want to be around for my grandkids.
6. I feel like I can do more, be more - after exercising.
7. I want to be sexy (awkward to admit, but it's truth) and exercise makes me feel more sexy. (kindof like #3, but not exactly).
I did not weigh in today. I wanted to focus this week on getting back into exercise without worrying so much about the weight. Took me 4 days to get it in gear. I was sick on Monday, so I used that as my excuse not to workout on Tuesday. Yesterday, I used my dentist appt as an excuse. You know, "I can't workout until my jaw isn't numb anymore... I can't drink properly, what if I need to drink while I am working out"... EXCUSES EXCUSES!!! Today was good. I made it to the gym and I feel great.
This morning, I read a fb private message from a friend asking me about my progress and encouraging me while she shared her own struggles. It pushed me to get of my martyred butt and go exercise this morning. I am so glad I did. Thank you!!!
No comments:
Post a Comment