I set out to accomplish forty minutes of straight cardio a few months ago. Twenty minutes on the treadmill, and twenty on the elliptical in one session. I’ve been successful. However, I learned it’s one thing to get to forty minutes straight, and another to maintain it! I thought once I got to it, I would easily get to 45, 50, than one hour (which would be nice). But when I miss two or more sessions of exercise, it sets me back. I know it’s the same for all of us.
Sometimes people at the gym come in and get on the elliptical and do an hour, I’m so envious ; ) On the other hand, some come in and can’t even do ten minutes. It depends on how in shape you are. It’s nice to be able to use it like everyone else. It reminds me despite my injuries, I can do something everyone else does that requires physical energy, exercise. I’d like to reach the half an hour straight mark on the elliptical, but I know it will take some conditioning. Hopefully, I will in the next few weeks. Man, that will feel good!
It’s a constant fight, well fight sounds intense I should say challenge. To exercise a few times a week, eat right and cook fresh foods. Taking care of our health can be a job in itself, but I’m getting better at this. I’m determined. I think we all should be. How we exercise, eat, and sleep really affect the way we feel.
This month I’m off teaching for my second job, because we’re in transition from summer to fall. I’m working less hours and it feels good to relax. I have more time for exercise.
I put my wheelchair away last week, and didn’t use it much for three full days so I know my cardio capability is better. A few years ago, it may’ve been hard. I try to use it very minimally, less than 1-2 hours a day and only if I have to. With my daily activity though, adding exercise sessions, and all the other chores I do I sometimes feel tired.
I think that could be the number one best physical therapy though, discombobulating that wheelchair! It’s hard to be on my feet all day but when I do take it apart, I feel that much stronger. My right side feels taller where I have weakness and I’m standing straighter.
My physical therapist and I were talking this morning about meeting at public places and not the gym like we usually do. That way, I could practice by taking my one cane out of the car and walking in. The shopping store, church, or restaurants, places where I could walk short distances to start. He says he thinks I can do it, and hopefully after a few sessions I’ll gain the confidence. I have the strength, but because of my balance I’m a little afraid. I think it’s about practice. I pray to get really good with one cane, than hopefully walk with nothing one day!
Still asking for prayer and hoping you are doing the same, working on your health. Thank you for standing with me.. thank you for your support. Let’s encourage one another : )
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