It has been now a little over eight months since I last did any kind of resistance training.
I’ve documented my body weight changes a couple of times thus far. My activity level has remained high, certainly increasing for weeks at a time, in the absence of a scheduled exercise routine. And I do ride my bike with my daughter a couple times each week in addition – which has also progressed as she can ride faster and faster, making me in turn ride and peddle faster to keep up. All of which I greatly and truly enjoy.
This morning I started/resumed an exercise routine. Nothing groundbreaking, nothing that will set any records for sure. Simply push ups and body squats. The aim is to gradually get back up to a full weight training routine focused on strength, power, and mobility (energy production). And, as mentioned elsewhere here, to gain back the strength and muscle mass without much of the fat. Fat that I was carrying too much of before – not an excessive amount, but more than was ideal.
Like anything that you engage in after an extended break from I became aware that the muscle groups I used this morning lacked the stamina and strength that they once had. Again, I’ve maintained good condition, but haven’t used specific (targeted) muscle groups in many months. It is surprising and humbling to know where I am in this regard.
I followed a few sets (of decreasing reps) of pushups and body squats with a walk. Also realizing that the road we now live on is very long. A simple walk to the stop sign at the end and back is much longer than I anticipated.
Along the way I see wonderful signs that reinforce what a great decision it was to move here. An added benefit, if you will.
A hawk sitting on the power line that watches me as I pass by. A yard sign/banner that reads “Be Your Own kind of Beautiful”
The neighbors that say “Good Morning” from their front porch as I walk by at a steady pace.
Also the feeling that I’ve not felt in some time. The joy of moving freely, with my blood pumping, enjoying all of God’s great creation.
Now for the rest – that is Day 1 becoming Day 2, Day 3, Day 4….Week 2, Week 3, Week 4,….Month 2, Month 3…
Be Great!