Help Us Get Our Butts Moving!
April 14, 2013 9:13 PM Subscribe
My husband and I have made a pact to get in shape. It hasn't happened that often even though we both want to! What are some goals that have helped you (and a workout buddy) actually get out there?
My husband and I started wanting to jog about a month or two ago. Since we have gone twice. Both times were in the same week.
I have tried to motivate myself by promising myself new workout gear for every month that I jog at least once a week, then I can move up from there. I also bought myself some proper gear so I can actually jog (sports bras and shorts) although I could use some new shoes.
We have an on-site gym that we have yet to go to, because we like to jog outside. We want to go out at least twice a week, but it seems that sitting on the couch doesn't help. We want to be each other's motivation too!
To answer possible questions:
-We have an onsite gym at our complex - we can use it in bad weather
-We have a good amount of running sidewalks and nice hills for exercise and jogging
-We try being accountable to each other but then we both laze-out because we are very similar people and can agree with each other's excuses
-I (we) both feel great after jogging!
-I don't need to lose weight, but I get winded walking to the mailboxes and back up 3 flights of stairs because I work from home and am not active otherwise. So we don't need weight training or things like that, mostly jogging.
On another note, I would rather not jog by myself - one for safety as I don't want to run around random neighborhoods even though we are in an extremely safe place (I don't take my phone with me which is why I don't want to go by myself.)
I could potentially go to the gym by myself, however I would be much more comfortable not looking like a total fool as I pant for breath after a half mile on the treadmill.
What's a good way to schedule in exercise and stick to it on a regular basis?
What has helped motivate you for regular - non strenuous exercise?
How do you help keep each other accountable?
Is there a good fitness scheduling app that just bugs you until you jog? (I tried the Reebok app but it has a buch of weird exercise that we don't want to do. We just want to stretch and jog.)
Also, I may do Yoga by myself during the week so motivation for that would be great too.
Again our main problem is that we find each other's excuses as totally valid because we are two peas in a pod. When we do go out and jog we really do help motivate each other. He especially helps me get through it as I am not a good runner and out of shape. So once we get out there it's not much of a problem.
My husband and I started wanting to jog about a month or two ago. Since we have gone twice. Both times were in the same week.
I have tried to motivate myself by promising myself new workout gear for every month that I jog at least once a week, then I can move up from there. I also bought myself some proper gear so I can actually jog (sports bras and shorts) although I could use some new shoes.
We have an on-site gym that we have yet to go to, because we like to jog outside. We want to go out at least twice a week, but it seems that sitting on the couch doesn't help. We want to be each other's motivation too!
To answer possible questions:
-We have an onsite gym at our complex - we can use it in bad weather
-We have a good amount of running sidewalks and nice hills for exercise and jogging
-We try being accountable to each other but then we both laze-out because we are very similar people and can agree with each other's excuses
-I (we) both feel great after jogging!
-I don't need to lose weight, but I get winded walking to the mailboxes and back up 3 flights of stairs because I work from home and am not active otherwise. So we don't need weight training or things like that, mostly jogging.
On another note, I would rather not jog by myself - one for safety as I don't want to run around random neighborhoods even though we are in an extremely safe place (I don't take my phone with me which is why I don't want to go by myself.)
I could potentially go to the gym by myself, however I would be much more comfortable not looking like a total fool as I pant for breath after a half mile on the treadmill.
What's a good way to schedule in exercise and stick to it on a regular basis?
What has helped motivate you for regular - non strenuous exercise?
How do you help keep each other accountable?
Is there a good fitness scheduling app that just bugs you until you jog? (I tried the Reebok app but it has a buch of weird exercise that we don't want to do. We just want to stretch and jog.)
Also, I may do Yoga by myself during the week so motivation for that would be great too.
Again our main problem is that we find each other's excuses as totally valid because we are two peas in a pod. When we do go out and jog we really do help motivate each other. He especially helps me get through it as I am not a good runner and out of shape. So once we get out there it's not much of a problem.
Best answer: We have a shared Google calendar to document the exercise on, which is weirdly effective. I love seeing all the little workouts lined up in a row.
Can you do this? Maybe with a real physical calendar tacked up someplace for the first few months at least? Use a different color pen for each person, and you'll want to keep streaks going.
We have also been setting dumb but achievable goals each month (run every trail in X park, 5 workouts that do not involve pavement, 60% of workouts outside, weight training 2x a week, try new activity Y, bike a route we haven't tried each week, hike 25 total miles, whatever) and that has been surprisingly motivating for me. Goal achieved= small outing we wouldn't have done otherwise, like a trip for frozen yogurt.
posted by charmedimsure at 9:25 PM on April 14, 2013 [2 favorites]
Can you do this? Maybe with a real physical calendar tacked up someplace for the first few months at least? Use a different color pen for each person, and you'll want to keep streaks going.
We have also been setting dumb but achievable goals each month (run every trail in X park, 5 workouts that do not involve pavement, 60% of workouts outside, weight training 2x a week, try new activity Y, bike a route we haven't tried each week, hike 25 total miles, whatever) and that has been surprisingly motivating for me. Goal achieved= small outing we wouldn't have done otherwise, like a trip for frozen yogurt.
posted by charmedimsure at 9:25 PM on April 14, 2013 [2 favorites]
Since it sounds like you are a beginning runner from your description of getting winded while going to the mailbox, here are things that have helped me start and reach a certain point in a running program:
-Couch to 5 K programs. I like this one by the NHS in the UK - it is free and it starts off with short bursts of running/more walking and over several weeks, you build up to running 5 K. Anywho, for me it was motivating/okay to just put on the headphones, listen to the voice that told me to run or walk, and the goal for me was to complete 5 K. You could motivate yourself by signing up for a race at the time when you should finish it.
-If gaming is more of a motivator, you can integrate the zombie app
You hear the sounds of zombies around you and then you want to run to keep your trinkets/points, etc.
-Get other running buddies. I actually was the running buddy for a married couple - because on their own they did exactly what you are doing. I'm not motivated to run much either, but I went out because I knew someone else was standing there waiting for me. So the obligation was guilt. I have made new friends out of running buddies, so it is the social aspect of running too (you know someone else is struggling with you).
posted by Wolfster at 9:31 PM on April 14, 2013
-Couch to 5 K programs. I like this one by the NHS in the UK - it is free and it starts off with short bursts of running/more walking and over several weeks, you build up to running 5 K. Anywho, for me it was motivating/okay to just put on the headphones, listen to the voice that told me to run or walk, and the goal for me was to complete 5 K. You could motivate yourself by signing up for a race at the time when you should finish it.
-If gaming is more of a motivator, you can integrate the zombie app
You hear the sounds of zombies around you and then you want to run to keep your trinkets/points, etc.
-Get other running buddies. I actually was the running buddy for a married couple - because on their own they did exactly what you are doing. I'm not motivated to run much either, but I went out because I knew someone else was standing there waiting for me. So the obligation was guilt. I have made new friends out of running buddies, so it is the social aspect of running too (you know someone else is struggling with you).
posted by Wolfster at 9:31 PM on April 14, 2013
Response by poster: Also a quick note: Thanks Wolfster I like the Zombie App, however I should have clarified that I prefer not to bring my iphone on me. It's my baby. I can however bring my old ipod for any sort of MP3 stuff. I'm sure my husband also doesn't want to drag out his droid as it's a work phone. That's also why I've had trouble finding phone apps.
posted by Crystalinne at 9:40 PM on April 14, 2013
posted by Crystalinne at 9:40 PM on April 14, 2013
Start ridiculously small.
When I'm struggling to exercise regularly, I tell myself that 12 minutes of running is better than nothing at all.
And usually, once I start, I can motivate myself to go on longer. But if all I do is 12 minutes, it's still better than nothing at all.
Repeat 5 times a week for one week. By the end of the week, you'll start feeling the benefits of the only 12 minutes (which will likely be 20 by then) and want to run for longer periods.
The thing about exercise is this: it makes you feel good, so it's addictive.
posted by Milau at 9:42 PM on April 14, 2013 [7 favorites]
When I'm struggling to exercise regularly, I tell myself that 12 minutes of running is better than nothing at all.
And usually, once I start, I can motivate myself to go on longer. But if all I do is 12 minutes, it's still better than nothing at all.
Repeat 5 times a week for one week. By the end of the week, you'll start feeling the benefits of the only 12 minutes (which will likely be 20 by then) and want to run for longer periods.
The thing about exercise is this: it makes you feel good, so it's addictive.
posted by Milau at 9:42 PM on April 14, 2013 [7 favorites]
Okay, this is just what worked for me. Take from it what you will. :)
What's a good way to schedule in exercise and stick to it on a regular basis?
Join a gym or pay for some kind of exercise program. I joined the most expensive gym I could afford (or, more accurately, justify), and promised myself I'd go at least 3 times per week. I have been successful for....well over 12 months, and counting. (It helped that this gym is more of a 'health club', with minimum 12-months membership commitment. I am not wealthy, and I was horrified by the idea of spending that much money per month for nothing.)
What has helped motivate you for regular - non strenuous exercise?
Honestly? Nothing, really. I opt for regular, strenuous exercise. That's where you see the real mental and physical benefits that keep you at it.
How do you help keep each other accountable?
I am single, so can't comment. I keep myself accountable by sticking to 3x per week, minimum. Religiously. Every week. So if I've been Monday and Wednesday and then I miss Friday and am flat out Saturday, well then...I'm getting up early Sunday morning, aren't I? Whether I like it or not. Make it a game with yourself to see how many weeks you can go without missing your commitment of 'x times per week'.
Is there a good fitness scheduling app that just bugs you until you jog? (I tried the Reebok app but it has a buch of weird exercise that we don't want to do. We just want to stretch and jog.)
Don't know. I'd never take instructions from an app, because I'm ornery like that. ;) But seeing my gym membership drain from my bank balance will bug me to work out.
Also, I may do Yoga by myself during the week so motivation for that would be great too.
Again...all-inclusive health-club membership. You will discover fun fitness-y things that you never knew existed.
I could potentially go to the gym by myself, however I would be much more comfortable not looking like a total fool as I pant for breath after a half mile on the treadmill.
Try and get past this. Trust me, nobody cares. Even at the yuppie-ish gym full of already-beautiful people that I frequent. Everyone is in there to do their own thing. If you start panting for breath, either slow down or hit another machine for a while. No big deal.
Oh, and also - I understand that you may just want to jog and nothing else, in which case, ignore me, BUT: working out with weights is not just for weight loss. I'm not overweight and I do a cardio + weights program 3+ times per week, and I feel WAY better than when I was just running for the same amount of time 3-4 times per week. It puts much less stress on my joints and I love the feeling of having muscle definition in all parts of my body, rather than just my legs. YMMV.
posted by Salamander at 9:52 PM on April 14, 2013 [1 favorite]
What's a good way to schedule in exercise and stick to it on a regular basis?
Join a gym or pay for some kind of exercise program. I joined the most expensive gym I could afford (or, more accurately, justify), and promised myself I'd go at least 3 times per week. I have been successful for....well over 12 months, and counting. (It helped that this gym is more of a 'health club', with minimum 12-months membership commitment. I am not wealthy, and I was horrified by the idea of spending that much money per month for nothing.)
What has helped motivate you for regular - non strenuous exercise?
Honestly? Nothing, really. I opt for regular, strenuous exercise. That's where you see the real mental and physical benefits that keep you at it.
How do you help keep each other accountable?
I am single, so can't comment. I keep myself accountable by sticking to 3x per week, minimum. Religiously. Every week. So if I've been Monday and Wednesday and then I miss Friday and am flat out Saturday, well then...I'm getting up early Sunday morning, aren't I? Whether I like it or not. Make it a game with yourself to see how many weeks you can go without missing your commitment of 'x times per week'.
Is there a good fitness scheduling app that just bugs you until you jog? (I tried the Reebok app but it has a buch of weird exercise that we don't want to do. We just want to stretch and jog.)
Don't know. I'd never take instructions from an app, because I'm ornery like that. ;) But seeing my gym membership drain from my bank balance will bug me to work out.
Also, I may do Yoga by myself during the week so motivation for that would be great too.
Again...all-inclusive health-club membership. You will discover fun fitness-y things that you never knew existed.
I could potentially go to the gym by myself, however I would be much more comfortable not looking like a total fool as I pant for breath after a half mile on the treadmill.
Try and get past this. Trust me, nobody cares. Even at the yuppie-ish gym full of already-beautiful people that I frequent. Everyone is in there to do their own thing. If you start panting for breath, either slow down or hit another machine for a while. No big deal.
Oh, and also - I understand that you may just want to jog and nothing else, in which case, ignore me, BUT: working out with weights is not just for weight loss. I'm not overweight and I do a cardio + weights program 3+ times per week, and I feel WAY better than when I was just running for the same amount of time 3-4 times per week. It puts much less stress on my joints and I love the feeling of having muscle definition in all parts of my body, rather than just my legs. YMMV.
posted by Salamander at 9:52 PM on April 14, 2013 [1 favorite]
I drew up a month-long calendar (with a ruler and pencil on typing paper) and highlighted the day in yellow (with a marker) when we jogged one (1) mile. Morning was better, but we weren't too proud to jog after work. I also recorded our times. I encouraged the creation of an Awesome Running Playlist for each of our preferred mp3 players. No matter how slow you jog, one mile can't take more than 20 minutes total, including getting dressed.
Small and consistent and hand-drawn really worked for us.
posted by purpleclover at 9:53 PM on April 14, 2013 [1 favorite]
Small and consistent and hand-drawn really worked for us.
posted by purpleclover at 9:53 PM on April 14, 2013 [1 favorite]
Get to a track at least once a week.
You might feel more motivated than just running around your neighborhood .
Also is there a third person that you can commit to meeting?
That would be a more difficult contract to break, I would think.
posted by calgirl at 10:33 PM on April 14, 2013
You might feel more motivated than just running around your neighborhood .
Also is there a third person that you can commit to meeting?
That would be a more difficult contract to break, I would think.
posted by calgirl at 10:33 PM on April 14, 2013
I'm a little confused about not wanting to take your phone with you. I mean, I looove my iPhone, too, but I just stick in its armband and it's fine. What do you think will happen to it? I find it motivating to:
-use a tracking app or an app that gives me real time goals, c25k or zombies run
-listen to my favorite fun podcasts. Then time flies faster and it feels more like a treat.
Just slogging along, no music or stories-ugh. Drudgery for me. Bring your phone.
posted by purenitrous at 10:42 PM on April 14, 2013 [4 favorites]
-use a tracking app or an app that gives me real time goals, c25k or zombies run
-listen to my favorite fun podcasts. Then time flies faster and it feels more like a treat.
Just slogging along, no music or stories-ugh. Drudgery for me. Bring your phone.
posted by purenitrous at 10:42 PM on April 14, 2013 [4 favorites]
Start ridiculously small.
When I'm struggling to exercise regularly, I tell myself that 12 minutes of running is better than nothing at all.
I'd second this. I believe one of the big reasons people do not follow through with exercise routines is they make it too big, too grand. Make little tiny baby steps. The slower you move, the more likely you are to form a habit of it.
posted by spiderskull at 11:12 PM on April 14, 2013
When I'm struggling to exercise regularly, I tell myself that 12 minutes of running is better than nothing at all.
I'd second this. I believe one of the big reasons people do not follow through with exercise routines is they make it too big, too grand. Make little tiny baby steps. The slower you move, the more likely you are to form a habit of it.
posted by spiderskull at 11:12 PM on April 14, 2013
I attend a regularly scheduled cardio class several times a week with a friend. This works for both of us because
-neither of us likes to feel like we are letting the other person down by skipping out
-we also know that the other people in our class will sort of wonder where we are if we don't go, which is additional motivation
-it's fun to go together, and it's a class we both like
-now that we've been going for so long, we can both see real results (in terms of being more in shape, with better endurance, being better coordinated etc.)
-it's on regular days at the same time so I have a good "excuse" to tell people I can't do X at that time, I have exercise class
-our class uses a punchcard type system that expires after X number of weeks, so if we skip too many classes we are essentially paying not to exercise, which annoys our thrifty souls
It sounds like you and your husband need more people in your pact to keep you both accountable! Try joining a running group (e.g. the Couch to 5K program mentioned above). Your running group won't just sit on your couch with you and say, "Yup, you're right...let's just sit here and watch TV!" (I am sympathetic, by the way...that would be me if not for my exercise class friends.)
posted by hurdy gurdy girl at 11:23 PM on April 14, 2013 [2 favorites]
-neither of us likes to feel like we are letting the other person down by skipping out
-we also know that the other people in our class will sort of wonder where we are if we don't go, which is additional motivation
-it's fun to go together, and it's a class we both like
-now that we've been going for so long, we can both see real results (in terms of being more in shape, with better endurance, being better coordinated etc.)
-it's on regular days at the same time so I have a good "excuse" to tell people I can't do X at that time, I have exercise class
-our class uses a punchcard type system that expires after X number of weeks, so if we skip too many classes we are essentially paying not to exercise, which annoys our thrifty souls
It sounds like you and your husband need more people in your pact to keep you both accountable! Try joining a running group (e.g. the Couch to 5K program mentioned above). Your running group won't just sit on your couch with you and say, "Yup, you're right...let's just sit here and watch TV!" (I am sympathetic, by the way...that would be me if not for my exercise class friends.)
posted by hurdy gurdy girl at 11:23 PM on April 14, 2013 [2 favorites]
I scheduled 2 sessions a week with a personal trainer (first at a crappy chain gym) then moved on to a nicer gym/better trainer. They often do couples training. Just having someone expecting me to show up was a ton of motivation. I think I complained about going *every time* for ages, but it got me in the habit.
posted by twiggy32 at 11:58 PM on April 14, 2013
posted by twiggy32 at 11:58 PM on April 14, 2013
I started running a few years ago (sadly my back is too bad now to keep it up) and the thing that motivated me was signing up to run a leg of a local charity marathon with work colleagues. It was far enough in the future that I knew I could do the training in time. Find a cause you'd both like to support then find a 5k run or something like that in your area, then tell everyone you know and ask for sponsorship. Once people know you're doing it you'll have more motivation. Its easy to make excuses to each other but the shame of telling others you didn't go through with it is harder to justify! And the knowledge that you NEED to go training for it will take precedence over whether you WANT to go out or not. You also then have the bonus of feeling you've achieved something for the greater good when you've finished it.
posted by billiebee at 2:10 AM on April 15, 2013
posted by billiebee at 2:10 AM on April 15, 2013
Well, I signed up for a certain class that requires a lot of strength a month in advance. I paid for it in advance as well, which gave me an incentive to actually work at getting stronger. I am already thin so for me, it's about the muscles and strength. It also requires, or rather, looks better and is more effective with, flexibility, so that gave me incentive to stretch everyday to be able to do splits and stuff. And once you take the class, much of the exercise will take care of itself there naturally. I guess you could aim for something more like dancing. You'll strive to work out to be able to perform better and get a head start in the class. It should be something you're really excited about getting good at so you can feel the urgency to practice now, or else it might seem pointless.
And what actually helps me do it is just making it a routine. I just do it and try not to think of my current physique and frustration. I just do it mindlessly and remain patient. And one thing that I recently learned to use to make myself do things, is to just do them without expecting a lot of progress. Just aim to do it for one minute if you think you can't even do it at all. Put on the shoes reluctantly and just start going outside even if you have to push yourself. Most likely, that one minute turns into many minutes.
posted by wholecornandsalt at 2:19 AM on April 15, 2013 [1 favorite]
And what actually helps me do it is just making it a routine. I just do it and try not to think of my current physique and frustration. I just do it mindlessly and remain patient. And one thing that I recently learned to use to make myself do things, is to just do them without expecting a lot of progress. Just aim to do it for one minute if you think you can't even do it at all. Put on the shoes reluctantly and just start going outside even if you have to push yourself. Most likely, that one minute turns into many minutes.
posted by wholecornandsalt at 2:19 AM on April 15, 2013 [1 favorite]
3rding Milau's advice to start small. Anything (even one minute, let alone 12!) is better than zero minutes!
I've jump started my own motivation recently by buying a kettlebell and promising myself I'd do 50 kettlebell swings every day. This takes 50 seconds, approximately. Or it might take 5 minutes if I do 25, then rest a couple minutes, and do 25 more. And then what has happened is 25 really easily turns into 30, which turns into 45, and 50 is suddenly 90. And then there I am having done 90 kettlebell swings and I'm like wow, maybe I'll do a couple bicep curls. Or figure out one of those figure eight swings you can do. And oh, gee, maybe there's a youtube video workout that I can follow... And without any excessive mental energy, 50 seconds has turned into 10 minutes! Which is more than 10 times longer than my original goal! Which was always better than zero! Yay!!! Exclamation points!!!
posted by gubenuj at 2:34 AM on April 15, 2013 [2 favorites]
I've jump started my own motivation recently by buying a kettlebell and promising myself I'd do 50 kettlebell swings every day. This takes 50 seconds, approximately. Or it might take 5 minutes if I do 25, then rest a couple minutes, and do 25 more. And then what has happened is 25 really easily turns into 30, which turns into 45, and 50 is suddenly 90. And then there I am having done 90 kettlebell swings and I'm like wow, maybe I'll do a couple bicep curls. Or figure out one of those figure eight swings you can do. And oh, gee, maybe there's a youtube video workout that I can follow... And without any excessive mental energy, 50 seconds has turned into 10 minutes! Which is more than 10 times longer than my original goal! Which was always better than zero! Yay!!! Exclamation points!!!
posted by gubenuj at 2:34 AM on April 15, 2013 [2 favorites]
Best answer: About you and your husband lazing out by agreeing with each other's excuses... How about taking turns being "the strong one"? So one person can be lazy at a time and the other one has to be the chirpy mover and shaker, and then next time the roles are reversed.
And in addition to starting small, what previously worked for me was scheduling my exercise first thing in the morning so that if I didn't get it done, I wouldn't get another chance during the day. I kept it up because I felt great throughout the day and had way more energy. Would that work for you?
posted by mkdirusername at 3:58 AM on April 15, 2013
And in addition to starting small, what previously worked for me was scheduling my exercise first thing in the morning so that if I didn't get it done, I wouldn't get another chance during the day. I kept it up because I felt great throughout the day and had way more energy. Would that work for you?
posted by mkdirusername at 3:58 AM on April 15, 2013
You can DIY Couch to 5k without an app or using your phone! Just buy a watch with an interval timer. You can set it to beep at, say, 5 minutes and 1 minute on a repeating loop. That's how I did something similar to C25K in the pre-iPhone era. I had a Timex that was around $25.
The only time I jogged regularly was when I belonged to a running club that met every Saturday morning. I would jog with them and once or twice a week on my own. Having a group for accountability and motivation was invaluable. Try googling "[your town] running club."
posted by apricot at 5:14 AM on April 15, 2013
The only time I jogged regularly was when I belonged to a running club that met every Saturday morning. I would jog with them and once or twice a week on my own. Having a group for accountability and motivation was invaluable. Try googling "[your town] running club."
posted by apricot at 5:14 AM on April 15, 2013
Best answer: First, set a routine for which days you're going to go. Maybe every other day, or every three days. Then write down a list of reasons you are allowed to skip your scheduled exercise, and stick with that. Keep the list short . I can't really think of too much that would go on it, but maybe:
* Injury (such as a mild ankle sprain - which would keep you from running, but maybe not lifiting weights)
* Sickness (has to be significant - not just because you feel like a cold might be coming on)
* Family Emergency (you have to drive your mother to the hospital for some reason - even for these, I'd try and work out later)
Examples of things that shouldn't be on the list:
* Had a rough day at work
* Inclement weather (unless the ground is super icy and you're likely to slip and break your neck)
You pretty much don't want to get in the habit of making any excuses. It's SOOOOOOO easy to make an excuse not to exercise, so just don't get in that mindset. Life has a habit of getting in the way, but you need to work around anything that might come up. It's scheduled, so you have to go - simple as that (unless it is on your "excuse list"). If you find yourself thinking up reasons not to run that day, go up and put your running outfit on and go for a run before you can convince yourself you're justified in skipping out.
posted by backwards guitar at 5:43 AM on April 15, 2013 [7 favorites]
* Injury (such as a mild ankle sprain - which would keep you from running, but maybe not lifiting weights)
* Sickness (has to be significant - not just because you feel like a cold might be coming on)
* Family Emergency (you have to drive your mother to the hospital for some reason - even for these, I'd try and work out later)
Examples of things that shouldn't be on the list:
* Had a rough day at work
* Inclement weather (unless the ground is super icy and you're likely to slip and break your neck)
You pretty much don't want to get in the habit of making any excuses. It's SOOOOOOO easy to make an excuse not to exercise, so just don't get in that mindset. Life has a habit of getting in the way, but you need to work around anything that might come up. It's scheduled, so you have to go - simple as that (unless it is on your "excuse list"). If you find yourself thinking up reasons not to run that day, go up and put your running outfit on and go for a run before you can convince yourself you're justified in skipping out.
posted by backwards guitar at 5:43 AM on April 15, 2013 [7 favorites]
It helps me to schedule my exercise time in advance and put it into my calendar, like a meeting or a doctor's appointment or something else that I wouldn't miss. It's a simple mind hack, but for me there's a big difference between sitting around Tuesday night and thinking "oh, maybe I'll get up and go for a run tomorrow if I feel like it" and looking at my calendar and thinking "oh, gotta set my alarm early, I'm scheduled for a run tomorrow!"
posted by LeeLanded at 6:39 AM on April 15, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by LeeLanded at 6:39 AM on April 15, 2013 [1 favorite]
I recently got a Fitbit and I've found it is strangely compelling - it actually gamifies exercise. I've found myself checking it several times a day and thinking things like, "ooh, if I walk to the laundromat rather than taking the bus, I could get in that much more exercise!" or "ooh, I'm so close to my goal for the day, lemme go take a quick walk before I make dinner tonight and see if I can get to my goal," or even "well, I'm going to the gym anyway, but if I walk there I could also hit my step goal for the day."
I recently described it to a friend as "like a Tamagotchi for fitness". (Even more so because occasionally the one I have makes faces at you - and a couple times it's shown me graphics that look like Space Invader 8-bit monsters and I have no idea what that's about.)
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 6:40 AM on April 15, 2013 [2 favorites]
I recently described it to a friend as "like a Tamagotchi for fitness". (Even more so because occasionally the one I have makes faces at you - and a couple times it's shown me graphics that look like Space Invader 8-bit monsters and I have no idea what that's about.)
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 6:40 AM on April 15, 2013 [2 favorites]
The thing that got me going was hiring a personal trainer. Even if you only meet with him/her every two weeks, knowing that you committed to 'do the routine four times' before you next meet will likely be enough to get you out the door. I especially find it useful to have a goal to exceed the program before the next meeting - ie the weights are too light or the distance is too short (or whatever) so that i see progress and purpose with each chunk of time,
posted by Kololo at 7:25 AM on April 15, 2013
posted by Kololo at 7:25 AM on April 15, 2013
I think your goals are too vague. Take a page from those classes at the office, and make your goals S.M.A.R.T: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Reasonable, and Time-Bounded.
Your goals to "get in shape" or "jog once a week" are not specific enough (you can feel the word "-ish" lurking after each one). Instead, pick a specific day of the week and commit to a specific time: "Every Tuesday at 6pm we go to X Park and jog for 30 minutes/3 laps/one mile" Put it on your calendar as an appointment to beep you beforehand, write it on a big wall calendar so you can color it when you succeed, give yourself a prize when you complete it (small prize every week or a nice prize like new gear every month).
I like the suggestion above to write out a list of valid excuses, and check those off every workout day, sort of like a starting countdown: are we throwing up? are we on crutches? is Grandma feeling well? Get going!
Once you've been successful at that, put an additional date on your calendar and go twice a week, etc.
posted by CathyG at 7:29 AM on April 15, 2013
Your goals to "get in shape" or "jog once a week" are not specific enough (you can feel the word "-ish" lurking after each one). Instead, pick a specific day of the week and commit to a specific time: "Every Tuesday at 6pm we go to X Park and jog for 30 minutes/3 laps/one mile" Put it on your calendar as an appointment to beep you beforehand, write it on a big wall calendar so you can color it when you succeed, give yourself a prize when you complete it (small prize every week or a nice prize like new gear every month).
I like the suggestion above to write out a list of valid excuses, and check those off every workout day, sort of like a starting countdown: are we throwing up? are we on crutches? is Grandma feeling well? Get going!
Once you've been successful at that, put an additional date on your calendar and go twice a week, etc.
posted by CathyG at 7:29 AM on April 15, 2013
You say you tried to create rewards for yourself for a month of successful jogging. That's too long! You can still use that as a benchmark for buying yourself cool new fitness swag, but until you get in the habit, you and your husband should reward yourselves each time you go work out.
You say you like tea, is there a tea shop near you that you could jog to? Or maybe buy yourself some fancy delicious flavor of tea you're only allowed to drink if you've jogged that day. Some sort of small reward.
Definitely keep some log of how far you're going. Nike plus works with a sensor with some iPods to log how far and how fast you go. It can be really cool to see the miles adding up!
If nothing else, go for a walk together. Even on our laziest nights, if my husband or I suggests taking a walk before bed, we will do it. I usually find that once I've agreed to walk to the store, when I'm out there with my good shoes on, I want to run!
posted by Night_owl at 7:37 AM on April 15, 2013 [1 favorite]
You say you like tea, is there a tea shop near you that you could jog to? Or maybe buy yourself some fancy delicious flavor of tea you're only allowed to drink if you've jogged that day. Some sort of small reward.
Definitely keep some log of how far you're going. Nike plus works with a sensor with some iPods to log how far and how fast you go. It can be really cool to see the miles adding up!
If nothing else, go for a walk together. Even on our laziest nights, if my husband or I suggests taking a walk before bed, we will do it. I usually find that once I've agreed to walk to the store, when I'm out there with my good shoes on, I want to run!
posted by Night_owl at 7:37 AM on April 15, 2013 [1 favorite]
The people who never get in shape are those who want to "get in shape" and "be healthy." Because seriously - what does that even mean? I am in good shape, but I'm not, like, a competitive athlete. Does that mean I'm out of shape?
Define your goals.
Couch to 5K is great in that it gives you a goal: Run a 5k! After C25K, try their bridge to 10K. And I don't think you need an app - I did a modified version after taking a while off running, and I just used a watch and kept track of the intervals on my own. Easy peasy.
I could potentially go to the gym by myself, however I would be much more comfortable not looking like a total fool as I pant for breath after a half mile on the treadmill.
No one is paying attention to you. Do your thing/get down with your bad self/it's your thing, do what you want to do. I'd rather see a million people panting on treadmills than a couple hovering around a piece of equipment together.
posted by ablazingsaddle at 7:58 AM on April 15, 2013
Define your goals.
Couch to 5K is great in that it gives you a goal: Run a 5k! After C25K, try their bridge to 10K. And I don't think you need an app - I did a modified version after taking a while off running, and I just used a watch and kept track of the intervals on my own. Easy peasy.
I could potentially go to the gym by myself, however I would be much more comfortable not looking like a total fool as I pant for breath after a half mile on the treadmill.
No one is paying attention to you. Do your thing/get down with your bad self/it's your thing, do what you want to do. I'd rather see a million people panting on treadmills than a couple hovering around a piece of equipment together.
posted by ablazingsaddle at 7:58 AM on April 15, 2013
Maybe try programming yourself so that when Mr. Crystalinne offers up an excuse to not go running, the very first thing you say is "That's an excuse, not a reason." Then look at him like you're shocked that came out of your mouth. Don't even wait to parse and consider what he's saying before you respond that way (normally I wouldn't advise not listening to your partner, but in this case I think it's OK. If he resists, then go ahead and listen to what he's saying).
Don't do this if your relationship is such that it would cause drama.
Ask him to do the same to you.
The reason I'm focusing on this is that you mentioned the reasonable-excuse issue a couple of times. As a person who would like to sit on the couch more than go exercise, I have to be aware of my own excuse-making. I know what it's like. Also, while many of the suggestions up-thread are great, a lot of them won't work if you can always find a reason (excuse) not to go exercise. I think you need to get a handle on that before a lot of those things would be helpful.
If you program your response to excuses like this you might be able to break the pattern and create a new, better pattern. An excuse becomes much harder to maintain when it's revealed to be an excuse.
It is important though to understand that there are real reasons not to go exercise and to heed those. Perhaps it would be helpful to define and list them for reference so you don't drift across a blurry line into excuses again. For example, an injured ankle is a really good reason not to go running; it's not an excuse, and to feel pressured into running on an injured ankle is bad.
I would make sure to rebuff excuses lovingly or with a touch of humor (I would absolutely not turn it into a joke though). If you can do that and invite him to do the same, it might help. Just an idea.
posted by under_petticoat_rule at 7:59 AM on April 15, 2013 [2 favorites]
Don't do this if your relationship is such that it would cause drama.
Ask him to do the same to you.
The reason I'm focusing on this is that you mentioned the reasonable-excuse issue a couple of times. As a person who would like to sit on the couch more than go exercise, I have to be aware of my own excuse-making. I know what it's like. Also, while many of the suggestions up-thread are great, a lot of them won't work if you can always find a reason (excuse) not to go exercise. I think you need to get a handle on that before a lot of those things would be helpful.
If you program your response to excuses like this you might be able to break the pattern and create a new, better pattern. An excuse becomes much harder to maintain when it's revealed to be an excuse.
It is important though to understand that there are real reasons not to go exercise and to heed those. Perhaps it would be helpful to define and list them for reference so you don't drift across a blurry line into excuses again. For example, an injured ankle is a really good reason not to go running; it's not an excuse, and to feel pressured into running on an injured ankle is bad.
I would make sure to rebuff excuses lovingly or with a touch of humor (I would absolutely not turn it into a joke though). If you can do that and invite him to do the same, it might help. Just an idea.
posted by under_petticoat_rule at 7:59 AM on April 15, 2013 [2 favorites]
My partner and I are working on getting healthy -- we are not up to jogging yet -- we walk :).
We walk first thing in the morning and what has helped the most so far is not discussing the working out until we are out the door. We get up, get dressed, get out the door and then we talk. When we talked before then, we were both really good at talking each other into staying in bed :).
posted by elmay at 11:17 AM on April 15, 2013 [1 favorite]
We walk first thing in the morning and what has helped the most so far is not discussing the working out until we are out the door. We get up, get dressed, get out the door and then we talk. When we talked before then, we were both really good at talking each other into staying in bed :).
posted by elmay at 11:17 AM on April 15, 2013 [1 favorite]
Response by poster: Thanks so far. As a note, a trainer isn't really up our alley. We don't have money for any sort of gym membership and we currently are already paying for our on-site gym as part of our rent. I like some of the scheduling ideas.
Also my husband did a lot of sports when he was younger so really he's a good trainer when we get out there, so the actual exercises aren't the problem. Our goal is at least twice a week to go out there. We currently map our running distance with Google Maps but I didn't yet think of timing them as some people said.
If you have more scheduling or "Get the hell off the couch and stop watching Powerpuff Girls together" ideas, they are all welcomed!
posted by Crystalinne at 12:51 PM on April 15, 2013
Also my husband did a lot of sports when he was younger so really he's a good trainer when we get out there, so the actual exercises aren't the problem. Our goal is at least twice a week to go out there. We currently map our running distance with Google Maps but I didn't yet think of timing them as some people said.
If you have more scheduling or "Get the hell off the couch and stop watching Powerpuff Girls together" ideas, they are all welcomed!
posted by Crystalinne at 12:51 PM on April 15, 2013
If you have more scheduling or "Get the hell off the couch and stop watching Powerpuff Girls together" ideas, they are all welcomed!
Screw Nike, but they said it best: Just do it.
And my favorite sports motivational quote from a dubious source (Lance Armstrong): Pain is temporary.
You can make a schedule, you can use apps, whatever, but you just gotta get out there and do it. I find that it's a lot easier to motivate myself to go for a run early, but I'm a morning person. Can you guys jog/walk/run before dinner a few times a week? No time to settle in on the couch. Just get out there as soon as he gets home from work.
The key is to not let yourself settle into watching Powerpuff Girls until after you've had a chance to exercise. It's really hard to get off the couch once you're on it.
posted by ablazingsaddle at 5:24 PM on April 15, 2013
Screw Nike, but they said it best: Just do it.
And my favorite sports motivational quote from a dubious source (Lance Armstrong): Pain is temporary.
You can make a schedule, you can use apps, whatever, but you just gotta get out there and do it. I find that it's a lot easier to motivate myself to go for a run early, but I'm a morning person. Can you guys jog/walk/run before dinner a few times a week? No time to settle in on the couch. Just get out there as soon as he gets home from work.
The key is to not let yourself settle into watching Powerpuff Girls until after you've had a chance to exercise. It's really hard to get off the couch once you're on it.
posted by ablazingsaddle at 5:24 PM on April 15, 2013
Response by poster: Thanks everyone!
I have printed out a month calendar with days highlighted for this week (Tuesday and Thursday). It's on the fridge. We have set up a reward system for the first month. Week one is a movie night, Week two is a $10 reward/treat and Week 4 is an object reward (new workout gear, maybe some shoes, etc.) We will create new goals for the next 4 week period.
My gmail calendar is set up with my iphone calendar so it will send me reminders for the days we scheduled. My husband should be setting up his so he gets phone reminders and he is email-invited to our 2 jogging days.
Our calendar also includes goals for this month. This time we are wanting to go twice a week, and jog at least 1 mile each time. (This includes stretching before of course.)
We have set up valid excuses - Sick, Injured, Unexpected Work, Date Night. My husband is technically on-call for his job and I work from home so we may get unexpected work. All of these excuses will mean that we are to reschedule our jogging day.
Not valid excuses include - Internet, Don't Want To, Movie/Show/Games
Then every month we can change goals as I have made a one-page vertical calendar in Word that has goals and rewards printed on it. We may also try timing our running times as well for extra motivation as we get more into it.
Thanks again everyone! I do really enjoy the feeling after jogging even if I feel like I'm going to die for most of it. Oh and my personal overall goal is to jog probably 2 miles without walking or being too out of breath. Again I just want the recommended healthy exercise.
posted by Crystalinne at 9:53 PM on April 15, 2013 [2 favorites]
I have printed out a month calendar with days highlighted for this week (Tuesday and Thursday). It's on the fridge. We have set up a reward system for the first month. Week one is a movie night, Week two is a $10 reward/treat and Week 4 is an object reward (new workout gear, maybe some shoes, etc.) We will create new goals for the next 4 week period.
My gmail calendar is set up with my iphone calendar so it will send me reminders for the days we scheduled. My husband should be setting up his so he gets phone reminders and he is email-invited to our 2 jogging days.
Our calendar also includes goals for this month. This time we are wanting to go twice a week, and jog at least 1 mile each time. (This includes stretching before of course.)
We have set up valid excuses - Sick, Injured, Unexpected Work, Date Night. My husband is technically on-call for his job and I work from home so we may get unexpected work. All of these excuses will mean that we are to reschedule our jogging day.
Not valid excuses include - Internet, Don't Want To, Movie/Show/Games
Then every month we can change goals as I have made a one-page vertical calendar in Word that has goals and rewards printed on it. We may also try timing our running times as well for extra motivation as we get more into it.
Thanks again everyone! I do really enjoy the feeling after jogging even if I feel like I'm going to die for most of it. Oh and my personal overall goal is to jog probably 2 miles without walking or being too out of breath. Again I just want the recommended healthy exercise.
posted by Crystalinne at 9:53 PM on April 15, 2013 [2 favorites]
Glad to hear you've got a plan Crystalinne. Exercise becomes enjoyable really quickly.After about 5 minutes of running, I usually try to picture the endorphins running through my body. This always makes me smile and motivates me to keep going.
I'll add that the most important thing about exercise is to do it regularly - so that it becomes a habit - not that you push yourselves (too) hard.
Have fun and enjoy!
posted by Milau at 5:08 AM on April 17, 2013 [1 favorite]
I'll add that the most important thing about exercise is to do it regularly - so that it becomes a habit - not that you push yourselves (too) hard.
Have fun and enjoy!
posted by Milau at 5:08 AM on April 17, 2013 [1 favorite]
Hey - it's been a week - how's it going? Does "pressure from the internet" count as motivation??
posted by CathyG at 10:39 AM on April 23, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by CathyG at 10:39 AM on April 23, 2013 [1 favorite]
Response by poster: Oh Hey CathyG. (and Others..)
We went twice last week. (Our goal was hit! We get a movie night! Hooray!).
I went by myself Sunday as it was beautiful out! (Just ran through my apartment complex so it was very safe - I don't take my phone with me.)
We have Thursday and Friday planned this week to go together. If we do that we get a $10 treat.
Once we get up to consistently doing a mile (right now we're at about a half mile) we will probably start timing ourselves.
There are some 5ks in our area later in the year we might try to attend. One is a midnight 5k and that looks interesting. It's not a for sure goal this year as we both just started running.
Basically the Google Calendar and Fridge Calendar deal worked. We highlight the days, then we cross them out or put a big shame arrow if they have to be moved. We also have been doing them right after dinner while it's still light out, so we don't hunker down into TV shows first.
posted by Crystalinne at 11:41 PM on April 23, 2013 [1 favorite]
We went twice last week. (Our goal was hit! We get a movie night! Hooray!).
I went by myself Sunday as it was beautiful out! (Just ran through my apartment complex so it was very safe - I don't take my phone with me.)
We have Thursday and Friday planned this week to go together. If we do that we get a $10 treat.
Once we get up to consistently doing a mile (right now we're at about a half mile) we will probably start timing ourselves.
There are some 5ks in our area later in the year we might try to attend. One is a midnight 5k and that looks interesting. It's not a for sure goal this year as we both just started running.
Basically the Google Calendar and Fridge Calendar deal worked. We highlight the days, then we cross them out or put a big shame arrow if they have to be moved. We also have been doing them right after dinner while it's still light out, so we don't hunker down into TV shows first.
posted by Crystalinne at 11:41 PM on April 23, 2013 [1 favorite]
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posted by flaterik at 9:20 PM on April 14, 2013