Hey there! Yes, I’m still here! As I talked about in my last post, I’m starting a new job next week, so things have been a bit hectic. Despite what’s going on in my life, though, the one thing that has remained consistent is exercise. Since I started working out in the mornings, it has truly been a game changer with consistency. Getting my workout in first thing in the morning ensures that it’s done, no matter what else comes up during the day.
I had to stop doing the 645 program that I started in December. It was hurting my arms and shoulders (so many planks!!) and I was starting to experience some numbness and tingling in my hand. The last thing I want to do is injure myself, so I had to accept the fact that the program was too advanced for me. For the last 5-6 weeks, I switched to more cardio, doing cycling classes on the stationary bike, and only doing 2-3 days a week of strength training. It was just what my body needed.
Yesterday I started a hybrid program that combines two of my favorite Beachbody programs, Morning Meltdown 100 and LIIFT4. This hybrid program is 20 weeks long, with a total of 100 workouts. The way the schedule is set up will mean each week I can do 2 days of MM100, 2 days of LIIFT4, 1-2 days of cycling, and 1-2 recovery days. Not only will I get a great combination of cardio and strength training, but the variety will keep me from getting bored. I’m really excited and will try to post updates throughout the 20 weeks.
The last nine months have been a rollercoaster of emotions for me. My surgery seemed to be the catalyst of a new chapter in my life. I was forced to slow down, I gained weight, and the symptoms of menopause were hitting me hard. My body was going through so many changes and emotionally I was grieving my younger self. I kept trying to get back to the fitness level I was at before my surgery and it just wasn’t working. My body just kept saying, “NO.”
I’m coming to a place of acceptance, although it has been extremely difficult. I can still exercise. However, I now realize that I just have to take it more slowly and moderate more. I can do cardio, but I stick to low impact (the cycling classes are perfect!). I can lift weights, but I have to build up much more slowly. My 55-year-old body can only do so much, and that’s okay.
I’ll say that again: it’s okay.
I can still be fit, I can still be healthy. I just have to pay more attention to how my body is reacting to what I’m doing. When you’re younger, it’s easier to ignore the aches and pains, but now that I’m older, I have to be more cautious.
One thing I can promise you, though: I will never use age as an excuse not to be active. I may have to moderate what I’m doing as I age, but there is no excuse for not doing something. Instead of focusing on things I can’t do, I want to continue to focus on what I can do.
May your glass always be full,
Tammy
Like a Fine Vino 