Continuing with my thoughts about parenting on purpose, I've decided to make some changes in my life! For one, I need to start exercising. I hate exercising. I hate almost everything about it. I don't like taking the time to do it. I don't think it's fun. I don't like going to the gym and feeling self-conscious. I just really don't like it. Exercising was also not something that was cultivated in me throughout my life.
Lewis, on the other hand, has been working out regularly since he was young - I think maybe 13 is when he said he remembers regularly doing some form of regular physical activity other than just the playing that a kid does. Ever since I've known him, he's made a point to work out about every other day. He'll run, lift weights, etc. We have a treadmill and a whole slew of weight lifting equipment in our basement, as well as two different kinds of punching bags. He kick-boxed for a while in college. He also completed the P90X stuff a couple of months ago! That was intense, but he did it all!
I decided that it was important for me to model some discipline in exercising so that Isis wasn't just seeing it from Lewis. I didn't want to leave her with a handicap of sorts where she sees dad work out, but mom just isn't active & she thinks that's okay. I also want to be preparing my body for a healthy life so that I can be there for Isis, any future children and grandchildren. I want her to learn that it's important to exercise and be active because it's important to be healthy.
So I've started the Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred. The things I like about it are:
It's quick, so I can do it in about 25 minutes a day.
It's easy to do in my living room while Isis plays around me.
It kicks my butt in a good way.
I'm on Day 6. So far I'm really proud of myself & I'm really happy with the workout! I was really sore the first 2 days, but I think my body is starting to adjust. I've set some goals for myself with this. If I continue doing it the entire 30 days, I'm going to either buy some cute workout clothes or a new pair of sneakers. If I continue working out regularly for 6 months, then Lewis said I can get an elliptical machine (off of Craigslist)!
What kind of exercise do you do?
Are you a member of a gym or do you work out at home?
What kind of health goals or disciplines do you hope to teach your children?
Comments
Good luck and keep motivated!
Like you though, I realize the need to be healthy and be a good role model for my child. Love 30-Day Shred for a quick but effective workout! I also play this Wii dance game that definitely burns some calories.