Getting back on it (again and again and again)

I waited about 5 weeks before blogging about this as not to jinx it, but I have finally started exercising again, and attempting to get my life on the healthy train.



E and I lost some weight about a year and a half ago and it was great to shed the first year of marriage weight, but I didn't form any good habits. I thought briefly about it again during WeVerb11. The pounds, and lethargy crept back up on me.

I used to run (a little) in college but for some reason the motivation hasn't been there the last 3 years. Every few months I would block out an entire evening and try running. (on that note - why does it always feel like it takes SO long to work out - get changed, download a podcast to my ipod, run, then stretch and shower after)?

On the occasion I could actually psych myself up enough to go, I would usually start too fast, feel awful, start walking, complain about all sorts of pain because my form was so bad, get home and collapse on the floor, defeated. This experience would prevent me from working out again for the next 4-6 months.
I also get discouraged when I don't quickly lose weight (after only moderate 2 workouts in one week), so I would quit.

I wanted to get started running this time around because I wanted to lose weight. But more than five weeks into relatively regular running, I haven't lost anything (I keep losing a pound and gaining it back the next week) but I still feel good about what I'm doing. My habits are barely forming and they're pretty minimal at this point, but just the fact that I can make myself get out the door a couple times a week and break a sweat feels like a real accomplishment. I don't think I can say I enjoy it yet, but I never regret it after I go.

I wish I could say what it was that finally pushed me out the door after years of excuses (I always look for inspiration from other people doing what I wish I was!) I don't know what finally motivated me, but here are at least a few things that contributed.

MyFitnessPal.com has been enormously helpful in allowing me to track progress and my calorie intake and burn everyday. (You can follow me there at Latte_Love)

I got new Nike Dri-fit tempo running shorts and a compression sports bra and love them.

I also follow some really inspirational blog friends, particularly Laura, Monica and Callie