My Fitness Journey: Learning to ‘embrace your place’

Squatting is not the most attractive position, but I sure feel it in my thighs and glutes!

Day 15

I got to the Fitness Center early – very early – not only because it’s a great way to start the day, but also so that I have my pick of machines and ample floor space. However, this past week, I have noticed that there are a lot more people at 6 a.m. than I am accustomed to seeing. Today I was acutely aware of several young, pretty, blond women working out. Outfitted in trendy fitness attire, one of them effortlessly hopped on a machine that looked dreadfully intimidating to me. I knew I was staring at her for too long, my eyes fixed on her physique as she fell into a cadence with the equipment she was handling. The first wave of emotion I felt was shame (mixed in with a dollop of self-pity and perhaps a pinch of regret). “I’m not as fit as she is, my workout clothes are shmattes, and I could never master that machine,” I said to myself. And then I realized I was still staring! Her eyes caught my gaze, and she smiled at me. Now, I know this might sound hokey, but … unexpectedly I felt content that I was doing my thing and she was doing hers. What’s right for her body, her age and her goals is not necessarily what’s right for me. Suddenly, I didn’t need to compare myself to someone half my age wearing the latest in fitness fashion. I remembered that this is MY journey, and I was proud of my accomplishments thus far. And, just for the record, later today I may go buy a new pair of exercise pants!

Day 16

Busy is not the same as physically active. I was busy this week, however, my personal and professional to-do list does not take inches off my hips, strengthen my core, improve flexibility or burn calories. (Although sometimes, when I am fretting, my heart rate increases, but that doesn’t count!)

Busyness is not an excuse for getting out of my exercise commitment. (And trust me, I’ve tried.) I wanted to duck out of training this week and blame it on busyness. The truth of the matter is, if my trainer Eddie makes an effort to be there for me, I owe it to myself (and to him) to “show up.”

After only two weeks, Eddie tells me that my posture is awesome, my core is tight and I am holding certain positions (like squatting) much longer than I was initially. He was so proud of me for walking 2.5 miles the other day despite the impending storm. Additionally, Eddie was glad that I told him about the uneasiness I felt when doing a plank. We have enough other exercises, such as the Glute Bridge, to engage my core.

It certainly helps to have someone in my corner. I guess that’s why most experts recommend the “buddy system.” We’re more accountable when someone else is counting on us. I wasn’t sure I’d like having a personal trainer. It seemed like a luxury, and I often wondered if I could afford it, if I was worth it or if I’d see any progress.

Today Eddie said, “I’m really happy to be a part of your journey, and I am very grateful to have you a part of mine.” That comment made me feel good and encouraged me to stick with this.

Thanks, Eddie, for reminding me that I am responsible for taking care of my body so that I can maintain the busy lifestyle I lead!

Day 19

I received an email yesterday that included a noteworthy phrase: Embrace your place.

It is worth repeating because this phrase is directly linked to wellness – both physical and emotional. Whether you need to exercise because you want to lose 20 pounds, lower your blood pressure, increase your flexibility, train for a marathon or because your doctor’s insisting on it, accept where you are.

When I can’t “embrace my place” I am left feeling defeated. Suddenly I am comparing my body to someone else’s. Though I may not be able to bench 75 pounds (nor do I want to), I can do more today than I could one week ago. Yesterday I was able to maintain my squat position for 20 seconds!

Today, I am at peace with my body, my age, my abilities, my strengths and my life. I am grateful for this journey.

Day 20

UGH! I woke up late and rushed to get to work. I did not feel like getting on the treadmill, nor did I feel like doing my core exercises. However, I made a deal with myself – all I had to do was 10 minutes on the treadmill, just to show I was willing. Twenty-three minutes went by before I realized that I had doubled my initial intention. So, while I did not do my core exercises, I still managed to get in some healthy activity today. (And I was even able to punch in at my usual time!)

Day 21

It was commonly believed that it took 21 days to develop a habit, but according to a recent study, it actually takes about 66 days to form a new habit. Sustaining good behaviors is likely to differ depending on who you are and what you are trying to do. I figure as long as I continue this routine, a habit will form. But I will probably have to persevere beyond the eight weeks of this fitness journey to see lasting results. I don’t think it’s a destination … it really is a journey. I’ll keep moving!