My Exercise Goal

I've never been one to regularly work out. Sure, I was on drill team (aka dance team or pom squad) in high school. I discovered yoga in college, was involved in a dance company and performed in several on-campus shows. Last spring, I trained for and completed a walking half marathon.

But I typically go through phases here and there, and I don't always make working out a priority.  When I say I am setting an exercise goal, most people would probably tell me I don't need one.  Yes, I may not need to lose weight... but I do need to get in shape.  I want to (dare I say it) enjoy working out... and I have found that I love dance, yoga, and walking.  I want to push myself a bit harder. I want to feel strong and have energy.  The biggest obstacle though is finding the ever-elusive time to hit the treadmill, practice yoga, or maybe even sweat it out with Just Dance 2 and our Wii.

To give myself a little trial run, I worked out this past Friday through Sunday.  Weekends are the best time for me to work out, but there was something different this time around... I tried to run a little.  On Friday, I wanted to see how long I could run before slowing to a walk.  I didn't time myself, but after a few minutes, my heart actually hurt and felt like it might beat out of my chest.  I knew I was okay, but I didn't want to risk a heart attack on the treadmill, so I walked for the rest of my session.  Saturday and Sunday went better since I paced myself a bit with shorter intervals. 

The perfectionist in me wants to just go for it, but I realized I need to take some time and build up strength and endurance.  I don't think I will ever be a runner, but I want to be healthy, no matter what activity I choose or what weight the scale reads.

The bottom line... I know myself.  I want to do it all, make plans, and fill up my calendar with anything but exercise.  In talking with Scott, I realized that there is really only one way I will dedicate time to exercise... bribery.  Yes, it's a method that has worked throughout my life.  I got M&Ms while being potty-trained, stickers and "free desserts" for good behavior growing up, and allowance for doing chores (hey, Mom and Dad, I guess it worked... though I am now quite a lover of chocolate after the M&Ms and free desserts!).

So here is my goal:
Work out three times a week for the next four weeks.

And here is my bribe...I mean, my reward:
A new item of athletic clothing/gear from Lululemon!

Start date: Monday, May 16
End date: Sunday, June 12

Three times a week might not sound like much.  But with class two nights a week, homework, work events, parties and trips, this next month is already looking booked.  I have the last couple weeks of classes and my finals due during that time period, as well as a trip to ND for my 5-year college reunion.  I wanted a realistic but somewhat challenging goal.  And now that I have told you all about my plan and I have a reward as an incentive, I am ready to take on this challenge.  I'll let you know how this adventure goes!

A fun, unique way to work out...
Flirty Girl Fitness class for a bachelorette party

 

Great way to strengthen arms and abs!
Flirty Girl Fitness class for a bachelorette party