Monday, March 24, 2008

268 Steps - My Motivation


Here's my latest motivation for working out! Yep--268 steps to see the giant Buddha in Hong Kong. I have to see him and oh, I hope those steps don't kill us. We are expecting 80 degree temperatures and 80% humidity! And 268 steps.

So we have been working out three times a week since January to train for this big event. I am just barely starting to see any results--I'm guessing it's because I'm in such bad shape. No, really; I'm probably the worst-shape person you know! I have asthma and have barely exercised in the last 10 years due to some health issues and problems with my feet. But I am ready to get back into shape again (I mean, some shape besides "round", LOL!)

It is hard because just doing the elliptical for a half hour makes all my muscles sore (even my back for some reason, and I don't even use the hand part of the machine) And my feet just ache and I limp the next day from it. But I am doing it anyways. At first when we started I would do it as easy as possible and not push myself at all. I have had trouble in the past with getting sick whenever I try to work out. I guess it just pushes my poor body past its last reserve. (pathetic, huh?) So I kept it easy and kept it up. I was angry at first; really angry every time we had to work out. I mean, I would feel rage about going there and I can't even explain it. I would scowl and sulk, even though it was my choice and I know I need to do this.

After about 4 weeks I stopped feeling angry and after another few weeks I don't even dread going. So after two months, that's my progress--I don't hurt *as* much and I'm not so angry. I still almost died climbing a hill in San Diego 2 weeks ago. I still have not lost even one ounce. My pants are still too tight. We walked on the beach yesterday and I still ached all over. But Matt said he noticed I was breathing a little easier on our walk and I stopped less. So progress is slim and slow but at least there is progress.

So say a prayer for me that I don't have a heart attack or pass out or something when I go to see the big Buddha on our vacation--I gotta get up there for the photo ops!

9 comments:

Dymphie said...

Some advice? (heeheehee nothing worse than unsollicated advice) Bring an umbrella for some shadow. Go slowly, really I mean that, take your time. And let your hubby carry that CPR thingy... *lol* just kidding.
Lianna, this trip will be so awesome. Cannot wait to see your photos and read all the cool stories.

Carolyn King said...

Good for you----you can do it!!! One day at a time---see you are already not dreading your exercise...that is a big step!

Anonymous said...

Sounds like you're doing great! Keep up the good work!!

Cathy said...

Hey, gf! I'm so proud of you! I agree with Dymphie, take it one step at a time. Here's some more "unsolicited advice" --- remember you didn't put that weight on all in a day, so try to take it off the same way - a little at a time! I'm constantly reminding my "round" self of that.

colleeeen said...

once you hit the "i don't dread going to the gym" phase, you're over the worst. i have slipped back into dreading going, but i have to just steel myself and get the heck back in there. i'm so much happier when i make it part of my routine.

if you want to start making real progress, look into using a trainer for a few weeks. they can help you determine what will be the most effective exercises, and i found that having somebody to be accountable to made me work harder. the only time i made any serious progress was when i was working with a trainer (i got 6 sessions free when we joined the gym).

Sue McGettigan said...

LOL Lianne, 'shape other than round' - you are too funny :) Big Buddha is waiting for you - I know you're going to LOVE being there! As for your exercise rage, I'm sure it's good for you to have worked through that part of it all, maybe you were feeling angry because exercising made you vulnerable? I'm so proud of you for persevering with your plan, good for you!!

Katie said...

Hi! So nice to read your kind words on my blog. I just read your recent post and it is too funny because I too am going to Hong Kong and Japan in September and I was just reading about the climb to the Big Buddha. Very excited for you!

keep in touch...
Katie

Ethel Amutan said...

What a fantastic trip to look forward to! Great motivation! Have tons of fun on your trip!

Lisa Renéa said...

Lianne, while, I'm not going to see the BB, I'm jealous! Oh, and I'm feeling your excercise pain, (I always tell everyone I have a great shape, round is a shape, so I cracked up at your post) 3-4 times a week since mid Jan...and haven't lost an ounce! I feel your pain! Good luck and keep up the good work. I hear it really pays off to just get moving, kwim?
Wishing you much luck!!