I hate working out. I hate it I hate it I hate it. As a former gymnast, I used to crave the competition and the strength that came with the exhausting and difficult workouts. And damn did I look good in a bikini! I think the only thing I have left from those gymnast days are some strong muscular legs and an innate sense of guilt that I don’t work out anymore. No longer able to be a gymnast, I try really hard to find a new niche to get back into the wonderful world of sweat and pain. To add insult to injury, Boyfriend is a distance runner and I feel major guilt every time he comes home from work and the first thing he wants to do is go out for an 8 mile run. I envy his love of something that is challenging, inexpensive, and can be done at any time he chooses. 

The 9-5 work day is not very conducive to a workout routine either. You leave the office and you’re tired- who wants to go to the gym? Yuck. I’d rather come home, take my dog out, grocery shop, cook dinner, watch some bad reality TV and go to bed. Because of this, my body has taken a toll. I am lucky enough that I’m not a big person but I’m not as fit as I used to be. Putting that bikini on seems like more of a punishment than privilege for a fun day at the pool. SO… I have decided that I’m going to voice a goal of mine. And once I put it in writing- it’s final. So here it is. In the spirit of Boyfriend’s running habit-

I’m going to run a half marathon. 

I’ve gone running with him many times and sometimes I even get really into it. The farthest I’ve ever run at one time is 3 miles. So it’s going to be quite the challenge to run 13.1 miles but I’m going to do it! It’s also nice to have a live-in running buddy and encourager. It’s so helpful when Boyfriend looks at me after a run- all sweaty and gross- and he tells me how awesome I did- even if I did terrible. To break up the running a bit, I want to get back into doing Yoga. I’d also like to try a Zumba class as I’ve heard some great things about it. A few goals for this would be to get back down to a weight where I feel a bit more comfortable. I want to feel good for my sister’s wedding at the end of September and I overall just want to feel less lazy and more productive. And maybe that bikini in my closet won’t be so daunting anymore! 

Now in this spirit I’m going to need some help and encouragement. I’d also like to know what you do for your routine to avoid the 9-5 weight gain. OR if you find yourself in my predicament then join me! Pick some things you’ve been dying to try and actually do them. Decide on a goal and go for it. Feel free to come back and leave progress results. Or leave a link to your blog and I’ll come by and encourage you too! Good luck!