Picky person looking for the perfect exercise activity.
December 30, 2010 9:50 PM Subscribe
I'm having trouble finding exercises that will work for me in the long term. Perhaps you know someone who has been in a similar situation. Inside:
Health issues and personality to take into account.
+ BMI : 26.7
+ Female... tomboy... thingy... if it matters.
+ Extremely clumsy.
+ Get bored easily. And I don't like movies or TV at all, is there anything else to distract me? Listening to music sometimes helps... but not for long.
+ Anti-social :-D so I don't want to exercise with others.
+ Victim of IBS D-: so I don't want to exercise with others.
I really like pilates and yoga, but seeing those bimbo toothpick or bodybuilder models in DVD / fitness video-games / gym has always put me in a really bad mood for days... If you have exercise videos with "normal", average people, please do send them my way!
Have Hyperthyroidism which means:
- intolerance to heat, very high and irregular heart beat,
- bone weakness, and sometimes bone pain throughout the day (weight-lifting is good for bone density, right?)
At home, I have:
+ a stationary bike - I like it a lot, but like I said, I get bored easily.
+ 2 lb, 5 lb weights - ok, but what do I do with them? :P
+ Exercise mats
There's no public transport here so I can't go to the gym.
I'm not interested in diet tips, because I've always eaten healthy meals.
I don't want to run.
Do know know any exercises that would work for me?
Really thank you for advice and encouragement given :)
+ BMI : 26.7
+ Female... tomboy... thingy... if it matters.
+ Extremely clumsy.
+ Get bored easily. And I don't like movies or TV at all, is there anything else to distract me? Listening to music sometimes helps... but not for long.
+ Anti-social :-D so I don't want to exercise with others.
+ Victim of IBS D-: so I don't want to exercise with others.
I really like pilates and yoga, but seeing those bimbo toothpick or bodybuilder models in DVD / fitness video-games / gym has always put me in a really bad mood for days... If you have exercise videos with "normal", average people, please do send them my way!
Have Hyperthyroidism which means:
- intolerance to heat, very high and irregular heart beat,
- bone weakness, and sometimes bone pain throughout the day (weight-lifting is good for bone density, right?)
At home, I have:
+ a stationary bike - I like it a lot, but like I said, I get bored easily.
+ 2 lb, 5 lb weights - ok, but what do I do with them? :P
+ Exercise mats
There's no public transport here so I can't go to the gym.
I'm not interested in diet tips, because I've always eaten healthy meals.
I don't want to run.
Do know know any exercises that would work for me?
Really thank you for advice and encouragement given :)
Response by poster: Oops, forgot to add:
I love to swim and ride the bicycle, but
1) even though I've been "swimming" my whole life, I can't swim any better than a 3 year old
2) I value my life, so I don't want any more "close calls" when riding my bike :P
Oh, the joys of being clumsy!
posted by midnightmoonlight at 9:57 PM on December 30, 2010
I love to swim and ride the bicycle, but
1) even though I've been "swimming" my whole life, I can't swim any better than a 3 year old
2) I value my life, so I don't want any more "close calls" when riding my bike :P
Oh, the joys of being clumsy!
posted by midnightmoonlight at 9:57 PM on December 30, 2010
I like the Callenetics videos, they are mostly core strength and the "ambience" is quite amusing but the workouts are good. It's pretty similar in basic concept to yoga/ pilates but I find it more effective for me. They have quite a few models of all ages, all quite fit but not freakishly so. It really improves your posture and probably would help with clumsiness! The workouts are pretty low key, although effective and won't raise your heartbeat or make you too hot compared to a lot of stuff.
I also like P90X but it's much more of a sweaty workout so you might not be into that.
posted by fshgrl at 10:00 PM on December 30, 2010
I also like P90X but it's much more of a sweaty workout so you might not be into that.
posted by fshgrl at 10:00 PM on December 30, 2010
Weight-lifting is GREAT for bone density, and it works well for someone who gets bored easily, because if you are doing it right, you shouldn't be ABLE to do more than 10 repetitions of any one exercise (not without a break for a couple of mins, anyway.)
As for distraction, I like listening to audio-books.
posted by lollusc at 10:07 PM on December 30, 2010
As for distraction, I like listening to audio-books.
posted by lollusc at 10:07 PM on December 30, 2010
Response by poster: How do you keep yourself interested after the first 10-15 minutes of walking, fshgrl?
That's about as long as it takes me to get sick of listening to music when I walk :P
I know some people will talk on the phone, or bring a friend and chat. Not really into that ^^;
posted by midnightmoonlight at 10:07 PM on December 30, 2010
That's about as long as it takes me to get sick of listening to music when I walk :P
I know some people will talk on the phone, or bring a friend and chat. Not really into that ^^;
posted by midnightmoonlight at 10:07 PM on December 30, 2010
Is there any relatively passive form of entertainment you enjoy? What about listening to podcasts or audiobooks while you do the exercise bike or walk or whatever?
The other nice thing about walking, which I suppose depends where you live, is that you're outside and can observe the world around you. Which is at least less boring than being on a stationary bike.
Also, I hate to be an asshole, but this would probably be a lot easier for you if you were less negative about exercise. I'm getting a lot of "don't want" and "can't" and "bored", and "anti" this and "victim" that. What do you like?
posted by Sara C. at 10:12 PM on December 30, 2010 [2 favorites]
The other nice thing about walking, which I suppose depends where you live, is that you're outside and can observe the world around you. Which is at least less boring than being on a stationary bike.
Also, I hate to be an asshole, but this would probably be a lot easier for you if you were less negative about exercise. I'm getting a lot of "don't want" and "can't" and "bored", and "anti" this and "victim" that. What do you like?
posted by Sara C. at 10:12 PM on December 30, 2010 [2 favorites]
Just one suggestion re: the clumsy part. I've been moderately clumsy my whole life, esp. wrt balance. In the last three weeks I've seen a marked improvement due to a regimen guided by a rehab clinic.
Doing things like balance board, bosu ball, exercise ball sitting and marching, and band resistance exercises are one aspect of what has seemed to work. Another huge one is posture. For EVERY exercise I'm doing, they emphasize pulling in my abdomen and standing with shoulders straight, pulled back and hanging loosely down.
These exercises and the emphasis on posture have made a big difference not only in my balance but my self-confidence in doing the workouts; somehow it just feels better (and lately, easier) doing the exercises with proper body positioning and better core support for the muscles being worked.
So if you can, get a physiotherapist appointment to learn the basics, or perhaps see if there's a bosu lesson available at the gym. If not, look up some of the exercises I mentioned online. It may be difficult to do all of these on your own (much easier having someone show you the proper form in person) but even doing a few of these might help with the clumsiness. It worked for this klutz.
posted by Hardcore Poser at 10:15 PM on December 30, 2010 [1 favorite]
Doing things like balance board, bosu ball, exercise ball sitting and marching, and band resistance exercises are one aspect of what has seemed to work. Another huge one is posture. For EVERY exercise I'm doing, they emphasize pulling in my abdomen and standing with shoulders straight, pulled back and hanging loosely down.
These exercises and the emphasis on posture have made a big difference not only in my balance but my self-confidence in doing the workouts; somehow it just feels better (and lately, easier) doing the exercises with proper body positioning and better core support for the muscles being worked.
So if you can, get a physiotherapist appointment to learn the basics, or perhaps see if there's a bosu lesson available at the gym. If not, look up some of the exercises I mentioned online. It may be difficult to do all of these on your own (much easier having someone show you the proper form in person) but even doing a few of these might help with the clumsiness. It worked for this klutz.
posted by Hardcore Poser at 10:15 PM on December 30, 2010 [1 favorite]
"How do you keep yourself interested after the first 10-15 minutes of walking..."
Walk with a dog. You needn't actually own a dog to do so, regularly. There are probably dogs in your neighborhood that could use some exercise, whose owners would be happy to have you be their volunteer dog walker. Shoot, you might even make it a part-time job, and get paid to do it. Nice things about walking with dogs are that they don't demand you make nice conversation, and they're always happy to go, when you are.
posted by paulsc at 10:28 PM on December 30, 2010
Walk with a dog. You needn't actually own a dog to do so, regularly. There are probably dogs in your neighborhood that could use some exercise, whose owners would be happy to have you be their volunteer dog walker. Shoot, you might even make it a part-time job, and get paid to do it. Nice things about walking with dogs are that they don't demand you make nice conversation, and they're always happy to go, when you are.
posted by paulsc at 10:28 PM on December 30, 2010
For aerobics get a monitor, walk to the store, library, post office, bank, bakery :). 20 min and it makes a difference as long as the monitor shows you're in range.
Strength, do two. I detest gyms, and was kinda low on the arm strength and not too interested. A while ago I told myself to do two pushups in the morning, just two. Well sometimes I threw in a third, then a couple more. Latest was fifteen. But I tell myself, just do 2.
Do start slow, go for the long term.
Gotta be a bike path reasonably close.
If you like swimming, get some training. Use some flotation as long as you keep moving.
Keep the mats and weights out and ready, and like, pick them up.
posted by sammyo at 10:33 PM on December 30, 2010 [1 favorite]
Strength, do two. I detest gyms, and was kinda low on the arm strength and not too interested. A while ago I told myself to do two pushups in the morning, just two. Well sometimes I threw in a third, then a couple more. Latest was fifteen. But I tell myself, just do 2.
Do start slow, go for the long term.
Gotta be a bike path reasonably close.
If you like swimming, get some training. Use some flotation as long as you keep moving.
Keep the mats and weights out and ready, and like, pick them up.
posted by sammyo at 10:33 PM on December 30, 2010 [1 favorite]
You've given us a long list of things you don't like to do. So what do you like to do? What are your hobbies and interests?
posted by decathecting at 10:38 PM on December 30, 2010
posted by decathecting at 10:38 PM on December 30, 2010
Convict Conditioning. You need next to nothing except gravity, your own body, and the stuff in the room around you. Absolutely perfect for anti-social types who want to work out alone.
posted by Pirate-Bartender-Zombie-Monkey at 10:45 PM on December 30, 2010
posted by Pirate-Bartender-Zombie-Monkey at 10:45 PM on December 30, 2010
I'd give yoga a try again. I'm sure you can find a class with people you wouldn't mind doing it with. Plus, yoga never leads to much socializing since it focuses on you and clearing your mind most of the time. Also, why feel bad about yourself over bimbos? Like you said, they're just...bimbos.
As to combat boredom while walking, listen to songs you love or really really need to listen! I personally run/walk to either Lady Gaga (can sing almost every one of her songs now) or whatever piano piece I'm currently working on.
If you're looking to not be bored out of your mind on a machine, you will get the best excitement or whatever other non-bored feeling from playing sports, which unfortunately does require some sort of socializing for the most part. Being focused helps combat boredom I find. Maybe your city has a co-ed dodgeball league you can join since you say you're somewhat of a tomboy. They won't care about the IBS issue either...
Don't worry at all about being clumsy!!! I'm the kind of person who trips over her feet while walking on flat ground and going UP stairs! I bike as a way of transportation and have gotten into a lot of near accidents too, including nearly getting run over by a bus. I've also dropped entire cups of coffee by accident and have fun into my share of door posts and walls, yet somehow when I'm running around having a good time (or skating for hockey), I'm not clumsy at all. Go figure.
tldr;--If you really are serious about becoming more active, you'll drop one of these requirements and try a ton of things out until you find something that works for you. If it helps, think of it as shopping!
posted by astapasta24 at 10:47 PM on December 30, 2010
As to combat boredom while walking, listen to songs you love or really really need to listen! I personally run/walk to either Lady Gaga (can sing almost every one of her songs now) or whatever piano piece I'm currently working on.
If you're looking to not be bored out of your mind on a machine, you will get the best excitement or whatever other non-bored feeling from playing sports, which unfortunately does require some sort of socializing for the most part. Being focused helps combat boredom I find. Maybe your city has a co-ed dodgeball league you can join since you say you're somewhat of a tomboy. They won't care about the IBS issue either...
Don't worry at all about being clumsy!!! I'm the kind of person who trips over her feet while walking on flat ground and going UP stairs! I bike as a way of transportation and have gotten into a lot of near accidents too, including nearly getting run over by a bus. I've also dropped entire cups of coffee by accident and have fun into my share of door posts and walls, yet somehow when I'm running around having a good time (or skating for hockey), I'm not clumsy at all. Go figure.
tldr;--If you really are serious about becoming more active, you'll drop one of these requirements and try a ton of things out until you find something that works for you. If it helps, think of it as shopping!
posted by astapasta24 at 10:47 PM on December 30, 2010
Response by poster: Also, I hate to be an asshole, but this would probably be a lot easier for you if you were less negative about exercise. I'm getting a lot of "don't want" and "can't" and "bored", and "anti" this and "victim" that. What do you like?
I hate to repeat myself, but I have always enjoyed exercise, and have mentioned a few that I have tried, and why they haven't worked. For example, despite living by a beach and rock pool, swimming a lot, getting training, twice, I can't swim. So it's not a valid form of exercise for me.
And trust me, I don't enjoy being a victim of IBS. It makes exercising really disgusting, let alone with other people. If you really want to, grab my ankles while I do sit ups! :)
But since you seem to like it so much, would you like me to transfer some very stinky IBS your way? :P
Umm... are you 12? Adults often do boring things because they know the reward is worth the effort.
Umm... are you a lucky lottery winner with no responsibilities in life?
Most of us already have too many "it's boring but it must be done" things in our lives, where the "boring" vs "where do I actually get to enjoy life in this planet?" leans too much towards "just plain good old fashioned boring and not enjoyable stuff that must be done".
I don't want exercise to be yet another thing. I want to enjoy it, or atleast be able to bear it.
Wii Fit:
I have tried Wii games and Wii Fit at my friends, but the equipment seems to fail to register how I move. Like "I'm doing it wrong". My friend too, sometimes. Maybe it's too sensitive? *shrug* His wife is good at it though! ... Grr!
Harcore Poser:
getting physical therapy for clumsiness is one big dream of mine indeed! I can't wait until I can afford it! I'm so happy to hear it worked for you, that really lit up a flame inside of me!
posted by midnightmoonlight at 10:51 PM on December 30, 2010
I hate to repeat myself, but I have always enjoyed exercise, and have mentioned a few that I have tried, and why they haven't worked. For example, despite living by a beach and rock pool, swimming a lot, getting training, twice, I can't swim. So it's not a valid form of exercise for me.
And trust me, I don't enjoy being a victim of IBS. It makes exercising really disgusting, let alone with other people. If you really want to, grab my ankles while I do sit ups! :)
But since you seem to like it so much, would you like me to transfer some very stinky IBS your way? :P
Umm... are you 12? Adults often do boring things because they know the reward is worth the effort.
Umm... are you a lucky lottery winner with no responsibilities in life?
Most of us already have too many "it's boring but it must be done" things in our lives, where the "boring" vs "where do I actually get to enjoy life in this planet?" leans too much towards "just plain good old fashioned boring and not enjoyable stuff that must be done".
I don't want exercise to be yet another thing. I want to enjoy it, or atleast be able to bear it.
Wii Fit:
I have tried Wii games and Wii Fit at my friends, but the equipment seems to fail to register how I move. Like "I'm doing it wrong". My friend too, sometimes. Maybe it's too sensitive? *shrug* His wife is good at it though! ... Grr!
Harcore Poser:
getting physical therapy for clumsiness is one big dream of mine indeed! I can't wait until I can afford it! I'm so happy to hear it worked for you, that really lit up a flame inside of me!
posted by midnightmoonlight at 10:51 PM on December 30, 2010
Glad you're motivated, mm. The exciting part for me was how quickly the benefits became evident. I'm still quite overweight, yet I feel an improvement in how I carry myself throughout the day. And it started to be noticeable less than two weeks into the program. Having workouts 3 days a week (soon to be 4) is probably another key; it's becoming habitual to suck in that gut.
Really wish I'd been taught these balance exercises a long time ago. I'd been doing gym workouts before, with some staff consultation on what to do and how to ramp up without pulling muscles etc. The balance part was never there though; if it had been I'm sure I'd have done more at the gym. It would have just felt better.
posted by Hardcore Poser at 11:05 PM on December 30, 2010
Really wish I'd been taught these balance exercises a long time ago. I'd been doing gym workouts before, with some staff consultation on what to do and how to ramp up without pulling muscles etc. The balance part was never there though; if it had been I'm sure I'd have done more at the gym. It would have just felt better.
posted by Hardcore Poser at 11:05 PM on December 30, 2010
despite living by a beach and rock pool, swimming a lot, getting training, twice, I can't swim. So it's not a valid form of exercise for me.
Not being able to swim (well) is not a reason why it's not good exercise. In fact, crappy swimming (dog paddle, flailing around, fighting against waves while jumping up and down in water that only reaches your waist) is GREAT exercise, because it is totally inefficient, so you are getting really fit!
And I disagree with those who say you have to accept boredom and disliking exercise. There are so many types of movement in the world! I can't imagine that any person would hate them all. Just to pick a few more exotic than the norm (but not that crazy either): skiing, dancing, skating, playing hopscotch or jump-rope with some kids, running around with a dog at the park, canoeing, rock-climbing! I'm not suggesting you do any of these, but I'm just saying there's a lot of stuff out there, so your quest to find a sport you aren't bored by and that fits your criteria is totally reasonable! Good luck.
posted by lollusc at 11:07 PM on December 30, 2010
Not being able to swim (well) is not a reason why it's not good exercise. In fact, crappy swimming (dog paddle, flailing around, fighting against waves while jumping up and down in water that only reaches your waist) is GREAT exercise, because it is totally inefficient, so you are getting really fit!
And I disagree with those who say you have to accept boredom and disliking exercise. There are so many types of movement in the world! I can't imagine that any person would hate them all. Just to pick a few more exotic than the norm (but not that crazy either): skiing, dancing, skating, playing hopscotch or jump-rope with some kids, running around with a dog at the park, canoeing, rock-climbing! I'm not suggesting you do any of these, but I'm just saying there's a lot of stuff out there, so your quest to find a sport you aren't bored by and that fits your criteria is totally reasonable! Good luck.
posted by lollusc at 11:07 PM on December 30, 2010
I have always enjoyed exercise, and have mentioned a few that I have tried, and why they haven't worked.
This is what I mean.
Firstly, it's an oxymoron. If you've always enjoyed exercise... what are some forms of exercise you've enjoyed in the past? Can you tell us what you liked about them? You mention in your original post that you like yoga, but then you said that you can't take classes or even exercise with anyone else in the room, and that you hate all yoga DVD's because the instructors are "bimbos". So...? Where does that leave us in trying to answer your question?
Secondly, you said very little about what you like, in general. You hate TV shows and movies. You can only stand to listen to music for 15 minutes, tops. Yet you become horrendously bored if you are not being entertained at all times. So... What do you do for entertainment when you're not exercising? I mean, if you don't like most conventional forms of sedentary entertainment, and you don't like exercising, and you apparently can't just be in your own head with your thoughts, what the hell do you do all day?
What I'd suggest if you enjoy yoga is to shell out for a few private sessions with an experienced instructor. A lot of yoga instructors have experience working with people with health problems, including people whose health problems mean that they're maybe not always pleasant to be around or to touch. And all trained yoga instructors will be able to work with clients tactfully when stuff like this comes up. They're not going to flee the room or giggle or say something awkward. Hell, most people fart during some yoga poses. There's even an asana that encourages the body to express gas! Anyhow, you can get the instructor to teach you the proper form for a few sequences of poses that you can memorize and do on your own at home.
posted by Sara C. at 11:08 PM on December 30, 2010 [7 favorites]
This is what I mean.
Firstly, it's an oxymoron. If you've always enjoyed exercise... what are some forms of exercise you've enjoyed in the past? Can you tell us what you liked about them? You mention in your original post that you like yoga, but then you said that you can't take classes or even exercise with anyone else in the room, and that you hate all yoga DVD's because the instructors are "bimbos". So...? Where does that leave us in trying to answer your question?
Secondly, you said very little about what you like, in general. You hate TV shows and movies. You can only stand to listen to music for 15 minutes, tops. Yet you become horrendously bored if you are not being entertained at all times. So... What do you do for entertainment when you're not exercising? I mean, if you don't like most conventional forms of sedentary entertainment, and you don't like exercising, and you apparently can't just be in your own head with your thoughts, what the hell do you do all day?
What I'd suggest if you enjoy yoga is to shell out for a few private sessions with an experienced instructor. A lot of yoga instructors have experience working with people with health problems, including people whose health problems mean that they're maybe not always pleasant to be around or to touch. And all trained yoga instructors will be able to work with clients tactfully when stuff like this comes up. They're not going to flee the room or giggle or say something awkward. Hell, most people fart during some yoga poses. There's even an asana that encourages the body to express gas! Anyhow, you can get the instructor to teach you the proper form for a few sequences of poses that you can memorize and do on your own at home.
posted by Sara C. at 11:08 PM on December 30, 2010 [7 favorites]
Sorry to keep jumping in, but a couple more things occurred to me:
2lb, 5lb weights: forget it. They are not heavy enough to do anything much with. Your ARMS weigh more than that. Try the suggestions other people made above to do bodyweight exercises since you can't get to the gym.
And you enjoy stationery biking but get bored easily? What about hacking together something that lets you surf the net while on the bike? Some sort of high desk placed where the handlebars are would let you rest your laptop. Or if you want to go really hardcore, I bet you can find some way to connect the bike to a computer game of some sort so you control it by pedalling. I mean something like this or this.
posted by lollusc at 11:13 PM on December 30, 2010
2lb, 5lb weights: forget it. They are not heavy enough to do anything much with. Your ARMS weigh more than that. Try the suggestions other people made above to do bodyweight exercises since you can't get to the gym.
And you enjoy stationery biking but get bored easily? What about hacking together something that lets you surf the net while on the bike? Some sort of high desk placed where the handlebars are would let you rest your laptop. Or if you want to go really hardcore, I bet you can find some way to connect the bike to a computer game of some sort so you control it by pedalling. I mean something like this or this.
posted by lollusc at 11:13 PM on December 30, 2010
I got into martial arts because I, too, tend to get bored with a lot of exercises - I need to feel I'm learning a skill or doing something with a purpose (besides wearing myself out in order to strength my muscles/increase my cardiovascular capability). The nice thing is, martial arts often have enough different techniques and things to practice that if you get bored with one movement- just start working with another.
I've been mildly clumsy most of my life and martial arts training has helped me be occasionally clumsy instead of regularly so.
A nice side benefit is that a lot of the movements you learn can be transformed into weight training ("Hey, I swing a sword like this. What happens if I lay on my back and put a weight in my hand? Oh, yep, that's exercise right there.")
There's tons of martial arts training videos available on youtube, so you can definitely look around and play around with some movements without necessarily having to pay a dime. Since it's not the same field as the health-for-beauty thing you see with workout tapes, most of the teachers aren't skinny models- some make you not only feel normal, but feel better on the scale of fashion sense no matter how badly off you might dress.
Escrima and Kali might be two styles worth starting to look at- though most focus on sticks and knives, they all ause the same movements empty handed and while each movement is simple- the combinations are complex and fun. They also focus on hand work rather than kicks, so you don't have to worry about jumping around and knocking stuff over.
posted by yeloson at 11:36 PM on December 30, 2010
I've been mildly clumsy most of my life and martial arts training has helped me be occasionally clumsy instead of regularly so.
A nice side benefit is that a lot of the movements you learn can be transformed into weight training ("Hey, I swing a sword like this. What happens if I lay on my back and put a weight in my hand? Oh, yep, that's exercise right there.")
There's tons of martial arts training videos available on youtube, so you can definitely look around and play around with some movements without necessarily having to pay a dime. Since it's not the same field as the health-for-beauty thing you see with workout tapes, most of the teachers aren't skinny models- some make you not only feel normal, but feel better on the scale of fashion sense no matter how badly off you might dress.
Escrima and Kali might be two styles worth starting to look at- though most focus on sticks and knives, they all ause the same movements empty handed and while each movement is simple- the combinations are complex and fun. They also focus on hand work rather than kicks, so you don't have to worry about jumping around and knocking stuff over.
posted by yeloson at 11:36 PM on December 30, 2010
Response by poster: what are some forms of exercise you've enjoyed in the past?
Hmm lets see...
Tennis, badminton, racquetball, "swimming", gymnastics , Pilates (it combines many different little exercises like situps, "the fish", etc). I liked running in physical education, and that running exercise when you jump over obstacles again and again...
Hmm what did I like about those? I'm not really good at explaining things, Hmm... maybe the quick bursts of movement, with 2 seconds to rest in between? Sounds like aerobics...!
Secondly, you said very little about what you like, in general [...] What do you do for entertainment when you're not exercising?
Well, these are the things I like to do:
- Love to read university books on any topic, learn/practice foreign languages (books/people online), think or practice what I've learned.
- Play piano, draw/paint?
posted by midnightmoonlight at 11:38 PM on December 30, 2010
Hmm lets see...
Tennis, badminton, racquetball, "swimming", gymnastics , Pilates (it combines many different little exercises like situps, "the fish", etc). I liked running in physical education, and that running exercise when you jump over obstacles again and again...
Hmm what did I like about those? I'm not really good at explaining things, Hmm... maybe the quick bursts of movement, with 2 seconds to rest in between? Sounds like aerobics...!
Secondly, you said very little about what you like, in general [...] What do you do for entertainment when you're not exercising?
Well, these are the things I like to do:
- Love to read university books on any topic, learn/practice foreign languages (books/people online), think or practice what I've learned.
- Play piano, draw/paint?
posted by midnightmoonlight at 11:38 PM on December 30, 2010
If I were you I would either run*, do the stationary bike, or walk while listening to audiobooks or podcasts (you can get some very academic podcasts), or maybe foreign language listening exercises.
I would also encourage you to broaden your horizons in terms of yoga, pilates, and aerobics videos. The first yoga video that comes to my mind is Wai-Lana, who (while physically thin) is no bimbo. So maybe try her stuff? Pilates is probably going to be harder to find someone with a non-barbie physique, because after all it was developed for models and actors. There's a lot of this stuff on youtube, too, as well as at least one yoga podcast floating around. (I'm sticking mainly to yoga because it's the exercise I've done the most). If you're looking for exercise videos that aren't hosted by someone who looks like a model, belly dancing might also be up your alley.
Is there a reason you can't play tennis or other racquet oriented sports now?
*You categorically refused to try running, but then you say that you like running. I have chosen to ignore your desire not to run because this obviously does not compute.
posted by Sara C. at 11:59 PM on December 30, 2010 [1 favorite]
I would also encourage you to broaden your horizons in terms of yoga, pilates, and aerobics videos. The first yoga video that comes to my mind is Wai-Lana, who (while physically thin) is no bimbo. So maybe try her stuff? Pilates is probably going to be harder to find someone with a non-barbie physique, because after all it was developed for models and actors. There's a lot of this stuff on youtube, too, as well as at least one yoga podcast floating around. (I'm sticking mainly to yoga because it's the exercise I've done the most). If you're looking for exercise videos that aren't hosted by someone who looks like a model, belly dancing might also be up your alley.
Is there a reason you can't play tennis or other racquet oriented sports now?
*You categorically refused to try running, but then you say that you like running. I have chosen to ignore your desire not to run because this obviously does not compute.
posted by Sara C. at 11:59 PM on December 30, 2010 [1 favorite]
Find something you like to listen to. I love this American Life but only listen to it when I walk (or ride my bike, on a track stand in the garage). An hour-long podcast is about as much time as it takes me to walk two miles, so I force myself to walk until its over. Is there something like that, that you enjoy, that you only give yourself while you're exercising?
posted by bendy at 1:57 AM on December 31, 2010 [2 favorites]
posted by bendy at 1:57 AM on December 31, 2010 [2 favorites]
Weightlifting, weightlifting, weightlifting. 45 minute sessions three times a week will improve your balance and coordination, lose fat fairly quickly, and with all the attention you're paying to what set is next you likely won't be bored. Forget the tiny weights you have though. The lightest you'd want is maybe 10, 12, or 15 pounds. You need a book to give you a plan. I recommend The New Rules of Lifting for Women by Lou Shuler. Also, know that you absolutely will NOT get bulky from lifting weights.
posted by ImproviseOrDie at 2:11 AM on December 31, 2010
posted by ImproviseOrDie at 2:11 AM on December 31, 2010
ask your doctor to refer you to a physical therapist to build up your core strength and create an exercise program for you. they have all kinds of tips and tricks to help you accommodate almost any ailment or disability or concern. (if you can't do a normal sit up because something is painful, they know a hundred variations, etc.)
posted by thinkingwoman at 4:36 AM on December 31, 2010 [1 favorite]
posted by thinkingwoman at 4:36 AM on December 31, 2010 [1 favorite]
Transportation may be a problem for you with some of my bright ideas, I just realized on re-read. Still leaving them in for others who might read the thread:
I would nth that yoga would be outstanding for you, perhaps starting out with some videos and progressing to an actual class. My vibe with the yoga classes I've done is that instructors who are even the tiniest bit competent are very good with the non-judgy thing and are constantly saying things like "if you can't do this pose, try that one..." (and there's always people who can't do certain poses) I also see more of a variety of body types than in the typical aerobics classes. Yoga people tend to be, like yourself, somewhat "anti" to the gym rat/aerobics/toothpick crowd, even when they're in great shape. It would help with your clumsiness and what I read as some anxiety issues generally.
Also, if anyone's teaching it in your area, spin classes. This is a type of group training on a special type of stationary bike. No electronics on the bike, just pedals, a saddle, handlebars, and a tension control that roughly affects resistance. Again, something I find can be enjoyed by a lot of body types and if you're not able to pedal as fast or as hard as the person next to you, it's hard to even notice, and a good instructor will NOT single you out about it.
I also agree that walking would be good for you, and yes, moderate weightlifting would be a tremendous help for your bone issues. Weightlifting also helps with clumsiness. I've had some issues with that since an accident - it left some of my leg muscles kind of weak and tight. Barring inner ear issues, a lot of clumsiness IMO is actually difficulty maintaining your balance because the muscles can't correct weight shifts easily enough.
I know you've already been challenged about the social anxiety/boredom things you've mentioned, so please take this as constructive advice: exercise invariably involves some of both, as does the rest of life. It's a risk/reward issue, and I find that if I've fallen off the wagon it's one of those demons that whisper in your ear to keep you away from stuff you know you need to do. But once you take the plunge and get into a routine, it rapidly gets better. Yes, gyms have a lot of fit people in them. But also a lot of un-fit, and trust me, the toothpicks have enough stuff running through their own head (their workout, their bills, trying to remember where their car keys are...) that they're not obsessing about you.
posted by randomkeystrike at 5:17 AM on December 31, 2010 [3 favorites]
I would nth that yoga would be outstanding for you, perhaps starting out with some videos and progressing to an actual class. My vibe with the yoga classes I've done is that instructors who are even the tiniest bit competent are very good with the non-judgy thing and are constantly saying things like "if you can't do this pose, try that one..." (and there's always people who can't do certain poses) I also see more of a variety of body types than in the typical aerobics classes. Yoga people tend to be, like yourself, somewhat "anti" to the gym rat/aerobics/toothpick crowd, even when they're in great shape. It would help with your clumsiness and what I read as some anxiety issues generally.
Also, if anyone's teaching it in your area, spin classes. This is a type of group training on a special type of stationary bike. No electronics on the bike, just pedals, a saddle, handlebars, and a tension control that roughly affects resistance. Again, something I find can be enjoyed by a lot of body types and if you're not able to pedal as fast or as hard as the person next to you, it's hard to even notice, and a good instructor will NOT single you out about it.
I also agree that walking would be good for you, and yes, moderate weightlifting would be a tremendous help for your bone issues. Weightlifting also helps with clumsiness. I've had some issues with that since an accident - it left some of my leg muscles kind of weak and tight. Barring inner ear issues, a lot of clumsiness IMO is actually difficulty maintaining your balance because the muscles can't correct weight shifts easily enough.
I know you've already been challenged about the social anxiety/boredom things you've mentioned, so please take this as constructive advice: exercise invariably involves some of both, as does the rest of life. It's a risk/reward issue, and I find that if I've fallen off the wagon it's one of those demons that whisper in your ear to keep you away from stuff you know you need to do. But once you take the plunge and get into a routine, it rapidly gets better. Yes, gyms have a lot of fit people in them. But also a lot of un-fit, and trust me, the toothpicks have enough stuff running through their own head (their workout, their bills, trying to remember where their car keys are...) that they're not obsessing about you.
posted by randomkeystrike at 5:17 AM on December 31, 2010 [3 favorites]
As far as getting bored: audiobooks (or podcasts). Makes that 10 mile ride on a bike (even if stationary fly by).
If you got the money you can get a personal fitness coach too.
posted by pyro979 at 7:38 AM on December 31, 2010
If you got the money you can get a personal fitness coach too.
posted by pyro979 at 7:38 AM on December 31, 2010
Several ideas:
If you get bored after 15 minutes, schedule your exercise to only do 15 minutes at a time, but repeat it several times each day.
You say you liked to run while jumping over things - how about build your own obstacle course? Here's one example; you can use your imagination in your neighborhood to figure out more, like: Run to the corner, jump over the fire hydrant, straddle the fence for 10 ft, do step-up-downs on the curb, somersault underneath the billboard, whatever. Best of all, you can change it every day/week if you get bored and always look for new things to add in next time.
If you can't swim but like the water, try water aerobics. Google for videos - you can jog, leglift, jumping jacks, dance, do "weights", pretend you are a cheerleader/boxer/skier, etc. All in water that comes to about your armpits. I like to pick about 5 moves, then do each one for 15 seconds in an easy motion, then ramp that same move up by doing it higher/faster/harder for 30 seconds, rest, then do the next move the same way.
posted by CathyG at 8:06 AM on December 31, 2010
If you get bored after 15 minutes, schedule your exercise to only do 15 minutes at a time, but repeat it several times each day.
You say you liked to run while jumping over things - how about build your own obstacle course? Here's one example; you can use your imagination in your neighborhood to figure out more, like: Run to the corner, jump over the fire hydrant, straddle the fence for 10 ft, do step-up-downs on the curb, somersault underneath the billboard, whatever. Best of all, you can change it every day/week if you get bored and always look for new things to add in next time.
If you can't swim but like the water, try water aerobics. Google for videos - you can jog, leglift, jumping jacks, dance, do "weights", pretend you are a cheerleader/boxer/skier, etc. All in water that comes to about your armpits. I like to pick about 5 moves, then do each one for 15 seconds in an easy motion, then ramp that same move up by doing it higher/faster/harder for 30 seconds, rest, then do the next move the same way.
posted by CathyG at 8:06 AM on December 31, 2010
Response by poster: CathyG
Well, I only said which exercises I liked because I was pressured to say so. But those were different times. I was so athletic and strong that my nickname was "Rambo".
Running/obstacles wouldn't work now, I can barely lift my knees up. I force myself to raise my legs up when I walk now, and that's helping a bit with that.
I think water aerobics would help too! Hmmm... really love water...!
I really like the idea for exercising in 15 minute intervals. Knowing that "I can stop whenever I want" helps me in other aspects of my life, like... house cleaning. Who knew the answer was so obvious?! Doh! Thank you, thank you :)
randomkeystrike
Social anxiety? What do you mean? I didn't mention social anxiety at all.
Hmm I don't think Yoga would help me lose the weight. It might help keeping the weight off once I lose it, though.
Sara C.
You asked me what I liked doing in the past, not the present. I can't run nowadays. Though I do try jogging a little, when I walk. Usually walking is strenuous enough, though. *catches breath*
I'm sure that once I'm fit again, running will seem exciting again. Can't wait!
Is there a reason you can't play tennis or other racquet oriented sports now?
Not really, only the gyms are too far away.
Maybe I'll move to an apartment complex with a gym!
For now I will try these things:
Workout in 15min intervals, but exercise more than once a day. Yippie!
Download foreign TV shows and movies -- watch when using stationary bike.
Will definitely keep going with Pilates. Use the weights with pilates.
Keep walking from work like I do now.
In the (hopefully near) future: run run run!
Off I go, wish me luck!
posted by midnightmoonlight at 10:23 AM on December 31, 2010
Well, I only said which exercises I liked because I was pressured to say so. But those were different times. I was so athletic and strong that my nickname was "Rambo".
Running/obstacles wouldn't work now, I can barely lift my knees up. I force myself to raise my legs up when I walk now, and that's helping a bit with that.
I think water aerobics would help too! Hmmm... really love water...!
I really like the idea for exercising in 15 minute intervals. Knowing that "I can stop whenever I want" helps me in other aspects of my life, like... house cleaning. Who knew the answer was so obvious?! Doh! Thank you, thank you :)
randomkeystrike
Social anxiety? What do you mean? I didn't mention social anxiety at all.
Hmm I don't think Yoga would help me lose the weight. It might help keeping the weight off once I lose it, though.
Sara C.
You asked me what I liked doing in the past, not the present. I can't run nowadays. Though I do try jogging a little, when I walk. Usually walking is strenuous enough, though. *catches breath*
I'm sure that once I'm fit again, running will seem exciting again. Can't wait!
Is there a reason you can't play tennis or other racquet oriented sports now?
Not really, only the gyms are too far away.
Maybe I'll move to an apartment complex with a gym!
For now I will try these things:
Workout in 15min intervals, but exercise more than once a day. Yippie!
Download foreign TV shows and movies -- watch when using stationary bike.
Will definitely keep going with Pilates. Use the weights with pilates.
Keep walking from work like I do now.
In the (hopefully near) future: run run run!
Off I go, wish me luck!
posted by midnightmoonlight at 10:23 AM on December 31, 2010
Google "yoga for round bodies." There are DVDs, books, classes. This might be a good option to add to your program--yoga is especially good for dealing with clumsiness and balance issues.
posted by Corvid at 10:39 AM on December 31, 2010 [1 favorite]
posted by Corvid at 10:39 AM on December 31, 2010 [1 favorite]
I think you're taking the wrong approach.
Workout in 15min intervals, but exercise more than once a day. Yippie!
I don't think that three 15 minute workouts are as good as one 45 minute workout.
Exercise sucks. It's boring and painful. But that's the point, and the rush and buzz that you get when you finish/do well/exercise every day for weeks on end is worth it.
It's not really about what exercise you do, it's about doing it. Seriously.
posted by Michael Pemulis at 12:09 PM on December 31, 2010
Workout in 15min intervals, but exercise more than once a day. Yippie!
I don't think that three 15 minute workouts are as good as one 45 minute workout.
Exercise sucks. It's boring and painful. But that's the point, and the rush and buzz that you get when you finish/do well/exercise every day for weeks on end is worth it.
It's not really about what exercise you do, it's about doing it. Seriously.
posted by Michael Pemulis at 12:09 PM on December 31, 2010
sorry, OP - you mentioned anti-social, and for me, anyway, not liking to be around people (especially some of the types you mentioned) involves anxiety as a component of that. Sorry if I assumed/was imprecise.
posted by randomkeystrike at 4:30 PM on December 31, 2010
posted by randomkeystrike at 4:30 PM on December 31, 2010
If you enjoy swimming but tend to sink, try using a paddleboard and fins. The paddle board helps keep you afloat and using fins makes you go fast! For someone like me, being able to swim fast makes me feel so much more competent. Without the fins I can't swim very fast and could never keep up with other swimmers. With fins, I can swim circles around 'em. I use long diving fins and they give my legs a super workout.
posted by a humble nudibranch at 8:05 PM on December 31, 2010
posted by a humble nudibranch at 8:05 PM on December 31, 2010
2nding boostershot.
You can "force" yourself to exercise by taking advantage of the lack of public transport, i.e. walking :-)
I'm clumsy too. I also need a lot of time by myself. So, I walk home from work (around 3 km) twice a week by myself.
posted by onegoodthing at 8:16 AM on February 19, 2011
You can "force" yourself to exercise by taking advantage of the lack of public transport, i.e. walking :-)
I'm clumsy too. I also need a lot of time by myself. So, I walk home from work (around 3 km) twice a week by myself.
posted by onegoodthing at 8:16 AM on February 19, 2011
Response by poster: This is a really old thread, but I thought I'd update in case it helps someone else:
* Found Nicole's SparkPeople workouts on Youtube. I made a playlist by type (stretches, upper body, lower body, aerobic, etc) and I play whichever playlist I feel like at that day.
I also set the playlist to play randomly, so it always feels like a different workout each time.
A big bonus is that she is no bimbo, she looks like she could be any friend of mine, who happens to be exercising with me. Makes a huge difference to me.
I've been doing this twice a day. Stretches, then I pick the workout type I feel like. I stop when I feel I need to.
* Walking: been walking home from work, but also walk everywhere I need to go, like always. So that's usually 2 to 4 miles a day, but usually more. I don't have a car, otherwise I'd go to the gym, ya know?, so I'm used to walking around... *shrug*
* Walking is easy, so I keep trying and trying week 1 of C25K but I can't jog for more than 5-10 seconds if I'm lucky... I wonder when that's going to change! It's supposed to be 60 seconds of jogging :P
* weight lifting: I've been using the 2 pound ones for arm exercises, and that's good enough for me. Yes, I feel it. Yes, after all this time. I can't use anymore because of bone P A I N (see opening post).
Not seeing any changes in how I feel or how I look, if anything, I likely gained weight, which is scary considering how much work this takes out of me. Oh well, I'll keep trying.
posted by midnightmoonlight at 7:22 PM on May 25, 2011
* Found Nicole's SparkPeople workouts on Youtube. I made a playlist by type (stretches, upper body, lower body, aerobic, etc) and I play whichever playlist I feel like at that day.
I also set the playlist to play randomly, so it always feels like a different workout each time.
A big bonus is that she is no bimbo, she looks like she could be any friend of mine, who happens to be exercising with me. Makes a huge difference to me.
I've been doing this twice a day. Stretches, then I pick the workout type I feel like. I stop when I feel I need to.
* Walking: been walking home from work, but also walk everywhere I need to go, like always. So that's usually 2 to 4 miles a day, but usually more. I don't have a car, otherwise I'd go to the gym, ya know?, so I'm used to walking around... *shrug*
* Walking is easy, so I keep trying and trying week 1 of C25K but I can't jog for more than 5-10 seconds if I'm lucky... I wonder when that's going to change! It's supposed to be 60 seconds of jogging :P
* weight lifting: I've been using the 2 pound ones for arm exercises, and that's good enough for me. Yes, I feel it. Yes, after all this time. I can't use anymore because of bone P A I N (see opening post).
Not seeing any changes in how I feel or how I look, if anything, I likely gained weight, which is scary considering how much work this takes out of me. Oh well, I'll keep trying.
posted by midnightmoonlight at 7:22 PM on May 25, 2011
Response by poster: Oh, I'm only able to do this now that I take anti-thyroid drugs. A lot of problems in my life lifted just like that, after taking medicine.
posted by midnightmoonlight at 3:18 PM on November 10, 2011
posted by midnightmoonlight at 3:18 PM on November 10, 2011
2-pound weights are not going to do anything to build muscle or help lose weight. You might as well be lifting a pencil. You need dumbbells in the 15-60 pound range to make real changes to your body. (The lighter in that range is for upper body, and the heavier for lower body complex moves such as goblet squats.) I say "you" because I myself started with a BMI similar to yours, and now I'm much lighter.
I recommend 1-2 sessions with a personal trainer for your situation; you need someone to hear all your many limitations and still have the knowledge and experience to tailor around them.
But that's AFTER you've cleared it with the doc who treats your thyroid condition. Because if you experience bone pain with 2-pound weights, you probably shouldn't be lifting any weight at all without clearance.
posted by ImproviseOrDie at 12:36 PM on November 16, 2011
I recommend 1-2 sessions with a personal trainer for your situation; you need someone to hear all your many limitations and still have the knowledge and experience to tailor around them.
But that's AFTER you've cleared it with the doc who treats your thyroid condition. Because if you experience bone pain with 2-pound weights, you probably shouldn't be lifting any weight at all without clearance.
posted by ImproviseOrDie at 12:36 PM on November 16, 2011
This thread is closed to new comments.
posted by boostershot at 9:53 PM on December 30, 2010