As you know, I have a terrible metabolic rate. Thanks genes. This means I must incorporate a good deal of exercise into my Optifast program in order to see significant losses each week. At the clinic they told me I will need to be getting some form of exercise for an hour five times a week -- preferably cardio plus circuit training (weights). I was also told to start slowly -- ease up to that routine over time. I was glad to hear that, as I fell out of my exercise regimen a long, long time ago and I was initially quite intimidated by the new schedule.
Week 1, I signed up with the local rec center. I tried to get on the treadmill but got dizzy after five minutes, so I stopped. I know now that my body was still adjusting to the Optifast program. By Week 2, I was able to do the treadmill at a slow walking pace for 20 minutes three days a week. Now at the end of Week 5, I am slowly increasing the speed each time and I am up to 25 minutes three times a week.
I have not started the weights yet for several reasons. First, I tend to be tired after the treadmill. I don't want to push myself too much at this early juncture or I might get frustrated and give up. Second, I know that muscle weight can add pounds and I am frightened about not losing any weight. This, of course, is ridiculous. I am going to end up with saggy skin if I don't tone my body. And I do not want that. But I am only losing about 2 lbs. a week right now and I don't want to give that up. So I'm torn. We'll see what they say at the clinic this week.
Getting -- and staying -- motivated has been tricky. Yes, I always feel so much better after my exercise, however I can make up excuses for not going i.e. I'm tired, I have to clean, I don't have time, etc. etc. I am trying to push through this. Trying to keep in the back of my mind that each step on that treadmill is a step towards my goal weight.
As we move into summer, I may be able to add in some water aerobics. I think if I can vary my types of exercise, that might help me with the motivation problem. I am also cognizant that I must work up to exercising five days a week. It seems so unreachable right now. But I'm a trooper and I won't give up!
Are you on full fast? My exercise consultant told me I could not weight train until I was taking in more calories. She said that I was not going to be able to make new muscle with the low calories, and that I would only serve to damage my muscles. How many calories are you on?
ReplyDeleteSounds like you are doing great, just take it easy and give yourself the credit you deserve.
I have to echo what was already said to you ... you're doing great! I know from my experience that the numbers on the scale when we're losing has meant a lot to me, too, as I've shared with you before. It's fantastic that you're taking such good care of yourself and I can tell you that I get inspiration from you.
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