I joined a gym! - ThinnerTimes - Gastric Bypass Forum, Lap Band Forum, and Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Forum

ladytonya · 02-10-2007, 11:02 PM

I never thought I would actually be a member of a fitness club. Back when I was in college, I used to work out some at the student rec center on campus but I've never actually belonged to a gym. Back then, of course that was still about 50 lbs. from where I am now, I used to do 45 min. to an hour of cardio per day plus some weight training. I joined on Friday and did 15 minutes on the treadmill. I couldn't stay any longer than that by the time I filled out all the paperwork and had the tour of the facilities. I went today and planned on trying to do 30 - 45 minutes. I only made it to 22 minutes! I did 5 minutes on the recumbent bike, 15 minutes on the treadmill, and 2 minutes on the elliptical. I couldn't go any more! At first I was frustrated because I didn't get anywhere near where I wanted to get, but at least I'm moving. I have been basically completely sedentary for years now and I don't know what to expect.

Most of you guys didn't start anywhere near the weight that I am at now that I've lost 74 lbs. Some of you that did start out heavier, how long did it take to really be able to get in to the cardio? I really want to work this thing, but it about kicked my butt today! Any input would be greatly appreciated!

chilmoe · 02-11-2007, 02:59 AM

thats great, any amount of activity beyond what you are used to doing is a great start, start slow and every few days increase as tolerated, once you get into a routine, push yourself a bit to keep increasing, mix it up but most of all just keep doing it....great job btw...congrats

LisaM · 02-11-2007, 04:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ladytonya

I went today and planned on trying to do 30 - 45 minutes. I only made it to 22 minutes! I did 5 minutes on the recumbent bike, 15 minutes on the treadmill, and 2 minutes on the elliptical. I couldn't go any more! At first I was frustrated because I didn't get anywhere near where I wanted to get, but at least I'm moving. I have been basically completely sedentary for years now and I don't know what to expect.

I tell my clients at the fitness center that they need to listen to their bodies. I also tell them that it takes time. Much like our weight, we didn't get out of shape in a few weeks, and you don't get into shape in just a few weeks. The good thing about starting at 22 minutes is that you'll be able to watch your progress skyrocket as time goes on.

Most of my docs have told me that it takes 6 weeks minimum for internal cuts to heal, so even though you're two months out from your surgery, you've only been fully healed internally for a few weeks. Your body will let you know what you can handle. Listen to it, increase your time a minute or two at each session, and you'll do wonderful.

JenBear7 · 02-11-2007, 07:27 AM

That is AMAZING! I hope I have that kind of courage soon! (And to me, its courage.. because personally I am petrified of the place lol

). I think 22 minutes sounds like a lot of time right now. I dont think I could do it in a row.. so it may not sound like much to you.. but for a first time that is fantastic .. Keep us posted on how it goes ok?? Pretty please! We are close in weight (currently, but now that you joined the gym.. wooot.. you are gonna fly past me!!

) .. and I will benefit from your experiences there..

Congrats again.. and good luck!!

CarlieGirl · 02-11-2007, 08:16 AM

wonderful news. i am glad you did it and 22 minutes is awesome. start slow, increase as you can.

Haveaball · 02-11-2007, 09:01 AM

Keep up the good work girlfriend! Take baby steps and before you know it, you will be jogging on the treadmill. This is one of the best things you can do for your "NEW YOU."
My goal is to do a little more each month. Believe me when I say it get easier, because it does!

Duckie · 02-11-2007, 09:02 AM

YEAH! I'm proud of you hon. That's awesome. It takes time. 22 minutes is an EXCELLENTstart. Keep it up. Add little bits at a time. LISTEN TO YOUR BODY!

Hunnyblonde · 02-11-2007, 09:24 AM

Awesome News! 22 minutes is awesome! My first time on the treadmill post-op was 10 mins! Took me longer to get dressed and drive there than I was in the facility!

Lemme tell you, I was one of those losers (and not in a good way) that has had a gym membership for years and just never went. $27 a month coming out of my account for no reason (at the time). You at least did it right!

coptergirl · 02-11-2007, 12:44 PM

Great job joining the gym, sweetie. Start slowly and work your way up - 22 minutes is fantastic...like lisa said, it can only go up from there, but listen to your body - evn those of us regular gym rats can have "off" days

Gina in NY · 02-11-2007, 03:19 PM

22 minutes is perfect! And good for you for trying all those different machines. You'll find some easier than others. You must listen to Lisa, you have to listen to your body and do what feels right. If you hurt yourself, you won't be able to do what you need to, so never feel badly about cutting out early. Some days, I still can't do an hour, and I've been in there for close to a year.

Always keep track of how you're improving. Time, resistance, how hard the machine is for you. Watch your knees - don't push them at all.

And you should just step back and kiss yourself. You are doing the best thing possible for your health. You're going to feel like a million bucks!