Week One In The Gym: Results

 One week down at the gym and I have lost 3.7 pounds already!  I weighed in this morning at 225.7 - higher than I wanted, but still a loss and I am happy with that!  And that is without changing my eating habits at all!  Yes indeed this weight loss thing can be done and I can conquer it! I can’t wait to officially start with Nutrisystem and be able to tell an even bigger difference.  

Things I’ve learned:

• Getting your foot in the door is the hardest part
• Never underestimate how many times you have to use the squatting motion on a daily basis.  After a hard leg workout I discovered how often I make those moves every day because it hurt so badly when I had to!
• Being skinny doesn’t automatically mean you are healthy or in good shape.  I managed 45 minutes on the treadmill going at a pretty steady rate with little to no problems while the very thin and athletic looking woman on the treadmill next to me was huffing and puffy trying to keep up at half my rate. 
• Exercise really does give you a LOT more energy, helps you sleep better and helps your digestive tract.  All noticeable after only the first couple of days in routine exercise.
• Making an effort to get healthy is SEXY
• Working out these days doesn't involve spandex body stockings and Jane Fonda anymore!
  

Although it was embarrassing in many ways the first few times I walked in that door my attitude about the entire experience has changed drastically.  It’s not just “health nuts” in the gym working out.  It’s not a place only made for those who are already in good shape either.  I love the fact that my gym has so many lower impact/easier things I can do until I build endurance.  And the bonus of super supportive staff is HUGE!  There are tons of gyms out there to choose from – co-ed gyms, national chains (like Anytime Fitness where I work out) or even small gyms for women only – find one that works for you.  And the gym is not the only answer.  Don’t think you have to go to the gym - most of what I am doing in that building can easily be done at home or in my own neighborhood.  My time on the treadmill could be done in my home with a Walk Away the Pounds DVD or on a treadmill of my own or even just by power walking the neighborhood I live in.  Free weights in lower sizes (3, 5, 8, 10, 15 pound) can easily be picked up at Walmart for just a few dollars each.  You CAN make it happen – no matter what your budget or situation is.  

I will never be an exercise nut.  I will never be a woman who wants to be in the gym more than she wants time at home with her family.  But I will say that for me – in this instant – having the opportunity to work out like I am – has been the motivation I needed to get focused and stay on track!  WE can do this!  All the men and women who want to get healthy (not skinny – just healthy)!  We can join together and support each other in our endeavors and we CAN be successful!