Learning and Changing
I have been learning so much lately. I am becoming aware of some myths I had been holding onto. For example, I had this funny idea that I could plan for a weekend of working out, where I would do obstacle courses, run, swim, rockclimb, all in one day. Now I realize how quickly I become fatigued when I work out, and how unrealistic this exercise spa fantasy really is. It actually takes a lot of work just to get in shape enough to work out adequately.
It’s not like I can wake up one morning after years of moderately sedentary behavior and just start working out vigorously. Apparently, it requires some building up. The same goes for running. I had this fantasy once, when I was out of shape. I told myself that anytime I wanted to I could just start running 10 miles every day and then I’d be in shape. How funny that I even thought this. Seriously, the things we tell ourselves! It’s taken me over a month to get in shape enough to run five miles slowly.
I look forward to a time when I am strong enough to work out more intensely and run faster for longer. I especially look forward to a time when running feels good, like flying. And I can’t wait for lifting to feel invigorating. I have gained some strength in the last 5 weeks, and lifting is more enjoyable than it was initially. But I’m not there yet.
I am so impatient. I check my muscles for growth every few hours. I know I should not expect much after only 5 weeks. I need to settle in for the long haul. I still have a hard time believing that I can keep this up, and that’s part of the reason that I want results Right Now, because who knows how much longer I will stay consistent. Okay, gotta stay positive.
My eating is changing. I am gravitating toward six small, high protein, low carb meals a day. And I’m staying away from high sugar and caffeine, mostly because I’m aware of how bad they make me feel. This is so weird. I’ve never eaten this clean before. Wonder how long that will last. I WANT it to last, but it never has before, and I’m afraid once I get busier, this is the first thing that will go.
October 26, 2008 at 3:09 am
You go, girl! Yes, I find working out EXHAUSTING, too, even after 12 years of it! On the weekend, I am mostly recuperating! I don’t know about other people, but that is me. I have tons of energy most days, though. But I go to bed very early and am not out and about much at all, anymore. But I like that because I enjoy the challenges in the gym in the mornings! Have great fun!