I often share how much I weigh here on my blog, with no shame. I’m very clear that a) it’s just a number b) it doesn’t define me and c) it’s temporary! I’ve made it clear that I have over 100 lbs. to lose and although it’s a daunting thought at times I know it’s not impossible to do and I know I will get it done.
When it comes to working out, here’s what I know for sure. The absolute best workout to do for weight loss success is 1) the one that you will be consistent with, 2) the one that you’ll be able to progress with and build upon and 3) the one that doesn’t cause you so much pain and discomfort that you won’t want to continue doing it.
The other day I started working out with resistance bands and really enjoyed it. Not only was it fun for me but it was also gentle on my body. Having had such a good experience means that I will do it again, and again and again. That’s the goal right?
You see, as a person weighing in at over 300 pounds, doing high impact exercises is just plain painful on my body. Jumping up and down on joints that are already hurting is abusive. And when pain is added on top of pain, it’s highly unlikely that I will continue with any consistency that type of workout. Dreading it kinda defeats the purpose…I’m just sayin’. Now that doesn’t mean that I can’t or won’t ever do high impact, but wisdom reminds me that I have to progress to that point. Wisdom encourages me to lose 30 to 50 pounds before jumping, running or doing any bouncing around.
Here’s the point, if I am going to lose the weight and maintain it, then I’ve got to do things I enjoy and things that are not so harsh on my body. That “go hard or go home” philosophy is not the thing longevity is made of.
Here are some great examples of low impact exercises that I’m starting with and will progress with by either going faster, longer or adding more intensity to as I get stronger and better.
- Walking – starting off with 15 – 20 minutes and building from there daily or weekly
- Marching in place – I can do this from the comforts of home during commercials. Again, starting off slow and building in intensity as I get stronger
- Dancing – my favorite because it’s fun. Hint, hint…the better your playlist, the better your workout
- Resistance band training – gentle and easy on the joints. Very effective in building muscles and I enjoy it. It makes me feel strong
- Strength training – low impact because my feet don’t leave the ground. There’s no jumping up and down and that’s a wonderful thing!
- Swimming – although I can’t swim yet, I do know that water is great for resistance and building endurance and it’s easy peasy on your joints. Learning how to swim is on my bucket list for this year.
These are my go to exercises now, especially since I can’t do my beloved Zumba. With the exception of swimming, I can do everything else from the comforts of my own home. Convenience and gentle…it doesn’t get much better than that!
Your Turn To Share
In what ways can you overhaul your workout regimen so that it’s something you enjoy and look forward to doing?