My story about exercise...
I had no intention of posting about working out, but it seems like I am not the only one with health on the mind!
Ava took this picture of me last night after I got home from my run...and I was surprised at how strong I looked. I guess that explains the five pound weight gain since I started muscle conditioning.
So anyway, back in December my boys were in Runners Club and I was outside watching them run during our Christmas break. They would sprint down our street to the stop sign and then walk back, and repeat that (intervals). They begged me to run with them, but people, I seriously could not run just that one block they were doing. I had to stop and walk. It was a serious wake-up call.
I've had an on-again off-again love/hate relationship with exercise. I danced my whole life and weight has never been an issue for me. But I wanted to be healthy. I wanted to feel strong. I wanted to be a good role model for my kids who I encourage to participate in sports. I decided to join the YMCA.
I know the money commitment for a gym is an issue for some people when it comes to exercise. I decided to cut back a little in other areas so I could join. I really enjoy the classes and the free daycare which is a great break for my kids and I during the summer months. I love the muscle conditioning classes and spin classes. I run every week but I need to mix it up or I get bored easily. Last night I ran four miles for the first time without walking at all. I know that's nothing to some people who train for marathons, but I was really proud of myself. I've come a long way since December.
I believe God wants us to take care of our bodies. Not in an obsessive, look perfect with no cellulite unrealistic way, but to take charge of our health and feel confident kind of way. Exercising regularly really helps me control my general anxiety, and I have so much more energy since I made exercise a regular part of my life. I honestly feel better all the way around. It also helps me curb my sweet tooth urges. Who wants to put crap in their body after they've spent an hour at the gym?
That's my story. I just wanted to put some encouragement out there for those of you who want to exercise but just keep putting it off. I'm rooting for you! :)
Same topic...there are some books about how an active lifestyle serves God.
Has anyone read any of them?
Everybody Matters
Running, the Sacred Art
Sole Sisters
6 comments:
Great job! Keep it up! That's awesome. The furthest I have run is a 5k. But doing a half marathon is on my bucket list and I am going to start training once the school year starts so I can run after dropping my youngest off at preschool.
You look great, Chrissie!! I totally agree that we need to take care of our bodies. It's really hard tho...and takes lots of extra emotional fortitude to get going. There can be slip-ups along the way too. But, with keeping our sights on HEALTHY...we can add many more "comfortable years" to our lives.
I try to do at least 2 (walking) miles, 6 days a week. I'm almost 60. Since I started this goal 2 about 18 months ago, I feel sooo much better. I've not lost as much weight as I would like, and my body still has some (lots) of saggies. But, I feel better and that's my goal =)
hugZ,
annie
Good job! 4 miles without stopping is great! I can't do that! :)
Chrissie, my daughter and her husband have a completely faith based fitness business. It is more common than you would think. I am very impressed with your wonderfully healthy looking beautiful self! Go you!
xoxo
i JUST blogged about exercise yesterday! funny :) i am on a mission to develop some healthy habits this summer. i've started a 12-week workout schedule and it's almost all weight training. i get too burned out and bored when all i do is cardio. it's working well for me...i'm only on day 4, but i'm excited!
Chrissie, what a great photograph. Well done. 4 miles running is hard work. I love strength training, and feeling fit and well, there is something very special about looking after our bodies, which are after all a temple for the Holy Spirit.
http://www.saltandsparkle.com/home/2012/6/12/great-artists-inspire-us-to-play-it-forward.html
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