Wednesday, January 26, 2011

I Be Up in the Gym Just Working on My Fitness

Those of you who know me well know that I HATE going to the gym. I like to come home after a "hard" day's work and take a nap. I'll admit it... I'm kind of lazy. When I started this weight loss journey, I knew this would be my greatest challenge.

I haven't been as committed on the exercise front. I started going to the gym once I got medical clearance, then the holidays and New Year came around, and I abandoned my routine. A few weeks ago, I decided I would have no more excuses and would start my workouts again every week day after work. Well, that was a bit of an over statement. I find myself super tired on Mondays because I'm still recovering from the weekend and getting adjusted to getting up early and going to work. And Fridays... let be real. Fridays after work, I usually crash or start getting ready for what ever I'm planning to do that night. So now I've set a more realistic goal: I will work out in the gym Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, and on Sundays, I'll attend a Zumba class with some of my girlfriends.

I started my solo workouts in the gym, which consisted of 30 minutes on the treadmill, 15 minutes on the elliptical machine (#archnemisis), and 15 minutes on the bicycle. Last Wednesday, I was just not feeling it and almost convinced myself that I shouldn't go to work out. I didn't listen to that little devil on my shoulder and proceeded to the gym to work out. After about 10 minutes on the treadmill, two roommates entered the gym and one was training the other.

I asked the personal trainer about his background and his fees, which were super expensive ($50 for an hour session; $25 for a half-hour session). I let him know I couldn't afford that and thanked him for his time. Out of the kindness of his heart, he allowed me to join his roommate for that training session for free. He worked me out like never before. 

I always felt that personal trainers were overrated, but they aren't. He definitely pushes me to the limit. I never pushed myself that hard working out by myself. He keeps me motivated and lets me know I'm doing a good job. And boy, do I feel the difference! I could barely move the next day. I worked out harder in 30 minutes with him than I did in an hour by myself. He joined me, again, the next day to do some cardio on the treadmill.

After explaining my financial situation with him, he agreed to work with me two times a week for $20 a week. Those of you who have worked with trainers know that's an AMAZING deal. I made excuses as to why I couldn't afford a personal trainer. After careful reevaluation, I realized that I could afford it if I cut out some of my other bad habits. Weight loss is a priority, so I had to start treating it that way. I've wasted money on frivolous things in the past which weren't benefiting my overall health. Using that money towards a personal trainer is a much better use of my funds, time, brain cells, and a list of other things. This is definitely an evolving moment for me, and I am proud of this personal growth.

4 comments:

  1. I'm proud of your personal growth as well. Keep it up! I believe in you - always have; always will!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Hey Kathy,
    Just got caught up on your blog...it's a very interesting and inspiring read! I'm so happy for you that you were able to work out a deal with the trainer! Congratulations on your progress; can't wait to hear more! In "Water Boy" movie voice: You can do it!!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Thanks M.... I mean, Anne (I won't call you by your middle name here). LOL

    ReplyDelete