Ship of Fools: Exercise Book

Thread: Exercise Book Board: Oblivion / Ship of Fools.

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Posted by Gwai (# 11076) on :

So what kind of brilliant exercise are you all doing this year?

Posted by Jenn. (# 5239) on :

Today I bought a new set of climbing kit, so homefully I'll be doing quite a bit of climbing to make it worth it!

Posted by cheesymarzipan (# 9442) on :

I keep saying I must go climbing again, and then failing to go! I'd make a resolution if that wasn't so easily broken...

Posted by Curious (# 93) on :

I'm building up my arm muscles - mainly by opening bottles and raising glasses [Biased]

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

...
I dug the weight bench out from under the laundry in preparation for the fitness race. that was enough for today, though...

Posted by Eigon (# 4917) on :

I got the maps and footpath booklets out over the holiday week. I used to walk a lot locally, but as the dog got older, the walks got shorter and shorter (until they ended up as trolley pushes!). Now Islay is in the Big Running Around Field in the Sky, I can get my hiking boots out again.

Posted by blackbeard (# 10848) on :

I hope to be doing a fair amount of running and the occasional gym/swimming pool visit in preparation for a half marathon in Spring which I have already entered (did it last year in a not very fast time)(see occasional entries in "Break a Sweat" thread). And since you mention "book": yes, I do keep a log. The "other half" is a dream at present.
Plus a lot of messing about in boats, including helping with sailing-for-disabled but also sailing in my own boats. Got as far as France in 2010 but I haven't yet sorted out a plan for this year. All this, too, gets logged.
Does singing count? I'm in 3 choirs.

Blackbeard, second bass (lowest of the low)

Posted by mrs whibley (# 4798) on :

quote:
Originally posted by blackbeard:
<snip> Got as far as France in 2010 but I haven't yet sorted out a plan for this year. <snip>

Getting back again? [Biased]

I'm going to keep at it in the gym, and try to get out for some proper runs as well. Perhaps this is the year I'll do my 10K. I can't imagine running a marathon, or even a half, don't people get really really bored?

Posted by Japes (# 5358) on :

Does going up and down stepladders hanging wallpaper count?

What I am very pleased about is how much fitter I am than the last time I did this. I was bewailing how much longer the whole thing has taken, and how unfit I must be, then I remembered this time I've had to remove old wallpaper and prepare very grotty walls and that took four days!

I'm going back to work for a rest tomorrow....

Posted by mrs whibley (# 4798) on :

Japes - going up and down stepladders definitely counts!

I finally got outside for a run today. 5k-ish in 34 mins, with some walking. I can already feel my quads, though, so am not looking forward to the next couple of days!

Posted by la vie en rouge (# 10688) on :

I am steeling myself to join the gym. I don't really enjoy indoor exercise but I've not got a lot of running in since it's been cold and dark in the mornings.

There's a lo-cost gym near my house which is only 180€ for the year if you go off peak (7-10 in the morning, which is realistically the only time I can go anyway).

Posted by blackbeard (# 10848) on :

quote:
Originally posted by mrs whibley:
.....I can't imagine running a marathon, or even a half, don't people get really really bored? ...

In general, it seems, no, there's plenty to think about (if only how to overtake the chap in front), and anyway it doesn't go on for that long.

It's more a problem if I walk for any distance.

Posted by Mr Curly (# 5518) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Curious:
I'm building up my arm muscles - mainly by opening bottles and raising glasses

Ditto.

I'm mainly walking while listening to podcasts - Selected Shorts is my favourite, and just started on This American Life.

mr curly

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Jenn.:
Today I bought a new set of climbing kit, so homefully I'll be doing quite a bit of climbing to make it worth it!

I shouldn't read first thing in the morning without my glasses - I read this as 'drinking kit' - sorry Jen [Hot and Hormonal]

I am determined to get walking again, as well as riding my bike.

Huia

Posted by Think² (# 1984) on :

I plan to be bootcamping again - though due to change in work arrangements maybe only twice rather than three times a week. However, am feeling rather smug, as via a facebook referral thingy I just picked up an 80% discount of my next ten kettlebell classes (would have been £100 for ten, am paying £19).

Posted by LutheranChik (# 9826) on :

I fell off the Wii Fit wagon this fall when I became ill, but I'd really like to start up again. And I also have some hand weights that I used to use almost every day, that I actually enjoyed using (I'm not a happy exerciser, usually), that I also stopped using. I have a book, "Smart Girls Use Dumbbells," that contains some really good workouts.

Posted by Flausa (# 3466) on :

I've decided to do the Edinburgh Moonwalk again. But I'm trying to decide whether to just work on bettering my time for the half or actually go for the full marathon power walk. I've managed to achieve a 5mph walking pace (though only sustained for a couple of minutes) and I can currently sustain 4.5mph walking pace for over an hour. I think I'd have to start working now on whether I should focus on endurance or speed, because I'm not sure I have enough training time to do both!

My other fitness goal this year is a core strength one (which actually helps the power walking and running). I can currently hold a plank for 4 minutes, but I'd like to increase that time, as well as increasing my number of consecutive press-ups (currently about 25).

Posted by Angel Wrestler (# 13673) on :

Swimming and walking for me!

Posted by daisymay (# 1480) on :

I've got lots of physio - strengthening my back and lying on the floor to do it - quite hard work - good exercises, though. I've been told to do all the exercises twice every day.

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

I've started weekly circus training. talk about a fun way to work out! but today - my whole body aches. I feel like I'm going to fall apart. oi.

Posted by claudine (# 12441) on :

I'm aiming to run a few 5ks and a 10k [races, that is] this year. I'm also considering whether to sign up with a personal trainer.

Just a year ago it would have been impossible for me to write those two sentences. Thanks, Ship!

[ 03. January 2012, 22:14: Message edited by: claudine ]

Posted by Flausa (# 3466) on :

I'm not wanting to clog up the Fitness Race Thread, but I thought we could come up with some more creative ways to get ourselves moving during the day. One thing I've done recently is to make laundry hanging a time-consuming task by taking each item up the stairs individually to be hung rather than taking everything up in the laundry basket in one trip. It means I'm up and down the stairs 25+ times and get an extra bit of exercise in my day doing a necessary task (can't do it if I'm in a real hurry). I know some folks on MFP will do some sort of activity during commercial breaks while watching TV (jumping jacks, running in place, press-ups or squats). What other ideas things could we do to make our normal activities more aerobic?

Posted by OhSimone (# 16414) on :

I'm a complete noob to any kind of exercise, but it finally feels like time, so the missus and I are going to combine it with exploring our new location via walking lots and lots. As the anal type I will be maintaining a regularly updated, and hopefully ever more colourful Google map of the West Midlands.

We're also going to try and do some hill-bagging, which isn't as crude as it sounds.

Posted by Avila (# 15541) on :

doctor says I need to do some 'enough to be out of puff' exercise every day. (Part of depression homework)

I don't do exercise generally, and the local pool and fitness bit will cost, but walking in January??

Any ideas, and things to help motivate when getting out of bed not attractive.

Posted by Jenn. (# 5239) on :

Swimming is great in winter, but my Wii has also really helped this winter. One game I have was only about £10 but the variety is great - I can do pilates or dance or running or kickboxing or whatever.

Walking in winter is actually ok - warm coat(layers are good as I overheat if I walk too quickly!), decent walking boots or other warm shoes. It's dry more often than it's wet ISTM so maybe a walk on your lunch break? Going out in the dark doesn't appeal to me [Smile]

Posted by Flausa (# 3466) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Avila:
Any ideas, and things to help motivate when getting out of bed not attractive.

That's where I was this time last year. And I would say, like Jenn, outdoor walking in the cold really was good. Something about a cool breeze in your face can go a small way to clearing the cobwebs away. Even 10 minutes around the block can help. If it's really chilly, you can always motivate yourself to move faster by knowing you can have a cup of the hot beverage of your choice on your return.

It's not really a motivation, but I found it helpful to have my walking stuff right next to my bed so that it was ready and waiting for me any time I found myself back in bed.

Posted by blackbeard (# 10848) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Avila:
.... but walking in January??
......

Well, there are some practical problems - the weather can be worse.

If you go across country you have to be back early before it gets dark, and you need decent boots and will have to avoid the muddier bits.

Apart from this it's the BEST time. Clear and fresh, and the light is wonderful.

Snow is great! though hard work.

Ice is a pain, gang warily or, if unsteady or fragile, not at all.

Enjoy.

Posted by ken (# 2460) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Avila:
...but walking in January??

Its a wonderful time of year for it if you are about in the day! Maybe not if its actually snowing, but that doesn't happen that often really. And its easier to dress up to keep warm on cold days than it is to dress to keep cool on hot days.

I hate excercise which is why I never do it because its so boring. But I love walking around looking at things (and taking photos of them) especially in cities.

And I love birdwatching and January is agreat month for that, especially on the coast or anywhere near open water because there are so many winter migrant wildfowl and waders around. And swans! Don't forget the swans!

Posted by Think² (# 1984) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Avila:
doctor says I need to do some 'enough to be out of puff' exercise every day. (Part of depression homework)

I don't do exercise generally, and the local pool and fitness bit will cost, but walking in January??

Any ideas, and things to help motivate when getting out of bed not attractive.

Any chance of a walkable pet ? Dog or ferret for example. The companionship is nice and you will take the animal for its sake if not yours if y0ou are bonded with it.

Posted by Fineline (# 12143) on :

I am walking to work and/or back, at least part of the way (it's 4 and a half miles each way, and I haven't yet walked the whole way). In the morning it's in the dark, and it is often raining, but I prefer it to walking in the summer, because I walk fast and get hot, so it's refreshing to walk in cold weather.

I'd like to also go on country walks at the weekends, but that is harder at this time of year because of all the mud. I need to get some wellies, really, but I imagine wellies get uncomfortable if you go for a long walk.

Posted by Fineline (# 12143) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Avila:
Any ideas, and things to help motivate when getting out of bed not attractive.

Mini trampolines are fun and cheap - I got one for £30 on Amazon. I keep it in my kitchen, so it's just there whenever I go into the kitchen, and I can bounce on it while I'm waiting for the kettle to boil or whatever I'm waiting for.

Posted by Avila (# 15541) on :

Thanks for the ideas, I have wellies and dodgy old trainers so might not be kitted for the cross country, though a range of rural footpaths near here so plenty of options.

Pet walking not an option - dogsat for my sister for a month back last year and found I am just not cut out for responsibility for another living thing - I even kill the most resilient pot plants!

(Actually the dog sitting showed classic Stockholm Syndrome - was very attached to me during stay, couldn't work without her on my lap, but since 'rescued' won't come near me!!)

Posted by Think² (# 1984) on :

I know I always say this but have you considered a kettlebell weight - asda are doing an 8K for £11 at the mo. Doing standard swings is a cardiovascular workout.

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

just finished a kind of cool workout. I decided to slow it down and just do a 5x5 (reps/sets) of selected stuff - pushups (from toes), sit-ups, squats, pull-ups, and dips. I was also going to do overhead presses, but I didn't want to change my weights each time in the middle, and now my arms are fried.

on the weighted stuff I maxed myself out, just to see if I could do it. everything else I just slowed it way down and watched my form really close.

you'd be amazed how much work 5 sit ups or 5 push-ups are if you go super slow and fight momentum.

for the squats, I upped my dumbbells to 30lbs each(!) and did an off step (it essentially isolates one leg at a time. your feet are not parallel, more like at 12 o'clock and 2 o'clock/10 o'clock) it felt WAY different. I really felt it in my ass and hamstrings, and less in my lower back. I felt like I got more out of the 5x5 than I'd been getting out of my usual 15x7.

for the dips I used my bench and just went really, really slow. by the 3rd set I was able to get very low and stay in good form and control. it's really amazing how quick your body picks up new stuff.

for the sit-ups I used my bench so I could do full ones without tweaking my back. again, super slow. I feel like I got more out of the 5x5 than my insane crunch routine of 25x10 before. I got WAY more. I'm going to be sore.

for pull-ups... *sigh* I don't have a pull-up bar, but I suspect I probably can't do a correct one yet. I used the stronger of my resistance bands, stuck in the top of a door; stepped far back and bent over so the movement is the same. I decided to do failurex5 for these, because the bands just don't give much resistance. I made it it 25x5, again just going super slow.

anyway - it was generally really impressive. It's good to remember than numbers aren't everything, and there are lots of ways of building intensity. I might stick to this style for awhile.

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Fineline:

quote:
Originally posted by Avila:
Any ideas, and things to help motivate when getting out of bed not attractive.
Mini trampolines are fun and cheap - I got one for £30 on Amazon. I keep it in my kitchen, so it's just there whenever I go into the kitchen, and I can bounce on it while I'm waiting for the kettle to boil or whatever I'm waiting for.

and just to push my favorite stuff - my basic weight bench was about the same, also from amazon. my adjustable dumbbells were probably about $45 (I can't figure out how to make the pound sign, so I'll leave the conversion up to you) and my resistance bands were less that $10 each.

I also strongly recommend
this book. I have the kindle version. its a quick read, very straight forward and non-fancy, and essentially you need nothing other than non-restrictive clothing. (and even then, you can do most of it) you don't even really need fancy shoes - I do most of my workouts barefoot. he does have some things that require props- but you figure out the props that work for you - dips off the coffee table, for instance. you can do the stuff anywhere - seriously, I've done the routines backstage, in the bathroom at work, in my kitchen, on the ferry, anywhere. and it's good stuff - you dont need spendy equipment to get in fine shape.

there's also a youtube channel called FitnessFAQ that's all body-weight based work. he uses some equipment, but he's also just as likely to shake down a neighborhood playground or parking lot. he's fun - however - he demonstrates a level I'm nowhere near yet! (he's also nice to look at, so there's that)

Posted by Masha (# 10098) on :

comet I salute you.

I did some walking today. Sadly a bit of that walking involved the purchase of Rocky Road ice cream. Which I then ate almost the whole carton of. I believe I may have cancelled out the good.

[Disappointed]

I walk about 15 miles a week on average but I HAVE to stay away from the sugar. Anyone got any extra willpower going spare?

Oh, and I'm also taking up yoga. Very beginners yoga.

[ 09. January 2012, 22:38: Message edited by: Masha ]

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Flausa:
What other ideas things could we do to make our normal activities more aerobic?

have I mentioned the bloody snow?!? [Biased]

our epic snowfall is going to have me looking like AH-nold by spring, but I think my strategy can help everyone out, even if snow isn't the issue. I decided not to hire a plow service this year, specifically to try and keep in shape. (well, and save cash) so of course, we get a big snow year... yes, God, I asked for it! maybe others could do a similar tack - fire the lawn-mower or the dog walker; cancel trash pickup so you have to do it yourself; haul groceries home in a backpack or wagon...?

another thing I've heard of (but dont do as of yet) is putting computers at counter height, so you have to stand for all your computer time. it's just standing, so not aerobic, but it's better for your body and in reality, you still end up being more active than sitting.

Posted by Avila (# 15541) on :

Thanks for the ideas - I afraid the mini trampoline waiting for things to boil in the kitchen amused rather than inspired - would confuse anyone looking in the window, and being tall I think I would meet the ceiling. [Eek!]

Anyway today I signed up at the fitness suite at the local pool just 5 min away. In January offer I don't have to pay extra for the induction and advice, and it is a month by month membership so not tied in for the year.

So I get the advice for my situation, the motivation of having paid for it so got to use it, but free to let it lapse when back to work if struggle to fit it in.

Tomorrow I get inducted - if I can find some appropriate clothing in the bottom of my wardrobe somewhere!!

Posted by Martin L (# 11804) on :

I hope to use the stairs more. I work on the second floor.

[It's not my fault...the elevator is on the way to my room, but the stairs are a bit farther...sigh]

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :

Biked 20km today [Yipee]

I must put my water bottle in my back pack as the weather was really hot.

Huia

Posted by Flausa (# 3466) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Think²:
I know I always say this but have you considered a kettlebell weight

You'll be so proud of me. In another RealLife collides with NotRealLife, I booked (well on a waiting list) to go to my first Kettlebell class with a fellow MyFitnessPal-er next Monday night. So double whoo hoo! One for getting to give the kettlebells a try and two for getting to meet another weirdo from the internet. [Big Grin]

Posted by SusanDoris (# 12618) on :

Just been reading all the posts here. I completely forgot to look at All Saints to see about the January fitness race, because I had a back problem in December. GP said it was the piriformis muscle, but Physio on Monday this week said it was to do with the left hip being looser than the right. I have some exercises to do to help strengthen the muscles supporting the lower spine/left hip.

It didn't stop me doing all my regular exercise and walking, I just yelped out loud every now and again! fortunately it was not a continuous pain.

Must now read the other Fitness threads.

Posted by Jonah the Whale (# 1244) on :

quote:
Originally posted by blackbeard:

quote:
Originally posted by mrs whibley:
.....I can't imagine running a marathon, or even a half, don't people get really really bored? ...
In general, it seems, no, there's plenty to think about (if only how to overtake the chap in front), and anyway it doesn't go on for that long.

The race is interesting enough - plenty going on. What can be a problem is the hours and hours of training. I have loads of audiobooks to keep me going though. I'm planning on doing my first marathon in April. The training schedule has long runs planned each weekend, building up to runs of 3, 3½ hours or so before tapering off before the race. I'll be getting a lot of "reading" done.

I've done a local half-marathon most years in the last few years. That would have fitted nicely into my training schedule, but I've just worked out I'll be away that weekend.

Posted by Liberty (# 713) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Flausa:
I know some folks on MFP will do some sort of activity during commercial breaks while watching TV (jumping jacks, running in place, press-ups or squats). What other ideas things could we do to make our normal activities more aerobic?

I have a step (like the kind you buy for a kid who can't reach the toilet when potty training - so around $10!)so when I am watching TV I can just step up/down. Having the TV on keeps me entertained, and it's pretty good aerobic exercise, especially as we don't have any stairs in our apartment.

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

have to say - it's funny in some ways of looking at it. I had this great plan to kick my weight training into high gear, and it's been sidelined by all the snow. the snow removal HAS to happen, so the weights get put off.

that being said, I'm getting tons of exercising of the muscle-building variety. so I shouldn't complain. usually I'm struggling to get 5 hours a week of exercise - now I have more workout potential than time to do it.

I should be thankful. dammit. start being thankful!

(clearing over the weekend and getting cold. so - I should be freed from shoveling to do my more fun stuff! assuming my plumbing doesn't freeze and lead me to getting my workout by climbing around under the house...)

Posted by Avila (# 15541) on :

Well I survived induction at the gym - a lovely instructor who was very sympathic to my 'being in an alien space' feelings

I found some vaguely suitable clothing but on my second visit the old trainers let me down at the end of the session. But that excuse didn't last long, because new ones ordered over the web that evening arrived by lunch the next day!!

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

here's a little motivation for everyone. (language alert) I love these guys. despite the 'tude of the blog post, this makes me happy and want to do more. who says negative reinforcement doesn't work?

[Big Grin]

Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Flausa:

quote:
Originally posted by Think²:
I know I always say this but have you considered a kettlebell weight
You'll be so proud of me. In another RealLife collides with NotRealLife, I booked (well on a waiting list) to go to my first Kettlebell class with a fellow MyFitnessPal-er next Monday night. So double whoo hoo! One for getting to give the kettlebells a try and two for getting to meet another weirdo from the internet.

The kettlebells are so worth it, or at least have been for me. I practice Taijiquan and do some basic kettlebell work each morning before I go to work, and I've had so much more energy and felt so much better since I started doing them I can't imagine why I didn't start earlier.

Posted by Think² (# 1984) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Flausa:

quote:
Originally posted by Think²:
I know I always say this but have you considered a kettlebell weight
You'll be so proud of me. In another RealLife collides with NotRealLife, I booked (well on a waiting list) to go to my first Kettlebell class with a fellow MyFitnessPal-er next Monday night. So double whoo hoo! One for getting to give the kettlebells a try and two for getting to meet another weirdo from the internet.

I hope you enjoy it - I find it the only enjoyable routine exercise I do.

Posted by Think² (# 1984) on :

I bought these, cos I am not confident about designing workouts. But planned to start up everything after the restart of bootcamp - but unfortunately now have a filthy cold - which is very annoying.

Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :

I can recommend the book Enter the Kettlebell, by Pavel Tsatsouline- if you can ignore the psuedo-Soviet claptrap, he's got great information in there.

Posted by mrs whibley (# 4798) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Avila:
Well I survived induction at the gym - a lovely instructor who was very sympathic to my 'being in an alien space' feelings

I found some vaguely suitable clothing but on my second visit the old trainers let me down at the end of the session. But that excuse didn't last long, because new ones ordered over the web that evening arrived by lunch the next day!!

Good for you, Avila! I remember that 'alien' feeling well, and not really knowing what to wear etc. It passes very quickly, thankfully.
Keep us posted on how you get on. [Smile]

Posted by Avila (# 15541) on :

Well went back to gym with my new trainers today - and came home with blisters on my heels!

They fit and it was not until mid way through that I felt the rub.

Should I have brought with more wriggle room, wear socks that are thicker to protect, mine mostly worn so thin they are barely there. Or just break these ones in?

Posted by Fineline (# 12143) on :

Avila, I always find it's good to have thick socks and good quality trainers (with thick, supportive soles), because I walk everywhere, and my feet easily get sore and get blisters otherwise. Also, if your trainers are a bit too big, and your socks too thin, your foot will move around in your trainer as you're walking, and this will cause chafing - this happened to me on my left foot, because it is smaller than my right foot, so I needed to get thicker socks. But if your trainers fit, it could be just that your socks are too thin, and maybe your trainers don't have a good supportive sole.

I wear Bridgedale socks, because they are very comfortable, and specially made so they are thicker at the parts of your foot that take the most weight when walking, such as your heel. They are quite expensive, but worth it if you are doing a lot of walking. I got them cheaper than normal, on Amazon and ebay, because I bought men's ones (I don't care what colour they are - I don't need pink ones!) and size 3-5.5 in mens is quite a lot cheaper (I assume because not many men have feet that size!). Also, if your feet are small enough, buying children's socks are cheaper than buying women's socks. If you go into a sports shop, you can ask the staff there about supportive trainers and which are best, and they explain it to you, because different trainers are better for different things. But you can try them on and see which feel most comfortable and supportive too, which you can't do when you buy them online.

Posted by Avila (# 15541) on :

Thanks for the tips. I ordered online because I am rural and they were on sale - so cheaper than the petrol to get to a shop that had perhaps 2 in my size to look at.

They fit but 'cosy' which I thought was fine as my feet wouldn't move around in them. After my earlier post I browsed the web on exercise and blisters where various sites pointed out that feet swell with exercise and that they should be enough space for that in your footwear. Ooops that sounds like the problem. They just fit my feet at rest - but not the super sized ones during the workout, and hey presto - blisters!!

So the solution seems to be to keep these ones for day to day and get a slightly bigger pair for the gym. At £10 a pair in the sale it is not the most expensive lesson to learn. Note to self - research before buying, and don't assume it is simple, life rarely is.

Made me think of the need for expansion space in life... but will leave that to the blog.

Also ordered some of those fancy socks, again in the sale. Meanwhile shoes are not an option until blisters subside, just as well mostly stuck at home!

Posted by Think² (# 1984) on :

Compeed & more Compeed.

Posted by mrs whibley (# 4798) on :

Just been out for a run. Managed my 5k (ish - according to Google Earth) circuit with only one break to walk! That's 2 or 3 fewer walks than ever before. Unfortunately I forgot my watch so didn't time myself. Does anyone know if the cross-trainer set to medium resistance would be good for developing uphill running muscles? It feels as if it should be.
I rewarded myself with a little go on the swings in the park afterwards. There was nobody else about and no signs saying under-40's only!
Avila - my trainers (fitted by a running shop and costing £££) are half a size larger than I usually take. I wear cheap towelling sports socks with them, but I'm sure the posh ones have their advantages. It should be possible to lace your feet into the trainers so any wriggle-room is at the toes, the middles have a bit of stretch to expand, and the heels are cupped snugly - do fiddle with the laces a bit if you haven't already tried and see if that helps.

Posted by Jengie Jon (# 273) on :

Avila

What fabric are the socks you are wearing with them, I have a sensitivity to wool and a tendency to blisters so do not wear wool socks, I have also learnt to avoid cheap synthetic socks as with these as well I end up with blisters.

Jengie

Posted by Avila (# 15541) on :

Thanks for tips,

Jengie - my socks were random out of the draw with holes!! [Disappointed]

Hey a week ago this wasn't on my agenda, so not exactly equipped!

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :

The shop I go to sell special socks that wick moisture away from the feet (moisture can cause blisters)/ Unfortunately they are too big for my feet and give me blisters. I have found a combination of Neat Feet (an antiperspirant) and thin socks inside really supportive shoes speciallly designed for walking suits me best.

I rode 20kms this morning [Yipee]

only to discover that it was Wednesday and the gathering I was going to is on a Thursday [Frown]

At least it was good exercise.

Huia

Posted by Flausa (# 3466) on :

<kick>

Well, I finally managed to get to the kettlebells class this week and quite enjoyed it. I'm not sure how sustainable it's going to be to do both Body Pump and Kettlercise on the same day though. I was a touch owie on my 5K walk/run and 5000m row yesterday and was REALLY feeling it during my strength training session today. But it was nice to get a few more ideas for exercises to incorporate in my strength training. Oh, and it's been fun meeting up with another MFPer! Yay! Someone who's as nutty about fitness as I am. I'm also loving getting to know people better at my gym. Keeps sessions from getting too boring. [Big Grin]

Posted by Think² (# 1984) on :

What weight did you start with in your KB session ?

Posted by Huia (# 3473) on :

Another 24kms biked today. I must organise myself with a water bottle as it was 27c out there today and even the wind was hot.

Huia the human grease-spot.

Posted by Flausa (# 3466) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Think²:
What weight did you start with in your KB session ?

I switched between the 4, 6, and 8 kilo bells depending on the exercises. Lower body work and ab work I was using the 6 or 8 kilo, upper body I was using the 4 or 6 kilo. Much lighter than the stuff I do in Body Pump, but I'll need to get used to the exercises and routines before upping the weights!

Posted by Eigon (# 4917) on :

My original plans for walking out fell at the first hurdle, as I immediately got a horrible tummy bug and couldn't stagger anywhere!
Now I have a little project that should get me out and about (I need an excuse, I've decided, now that I'm not dog walking any more). So I'm going to take photos of every small business in the immediate area and post them on my blog once a week as Small Business Saturday. This is partly to help the local anti-supermarket development campaign by showing what diversity we have here in small businesses, and it should keep me occupied for months to come!

Posted by Caissa (# 16710) on :

I have played basketball once a week since the start of the year. After 3 weeks, I had dropped 4 lbs. We'll see what the scales say on Sunday.

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

I did a "sprint to the finish" on the fitness race - i.e. really pushed activities for the last few days, culminating in more than four hours of hard work yesterday on top of my paid work and somehow caring for my spawn.

I overdid it. I'm so sore. it's mostly just shovel muscles (and of course, it had to be done yesterday, but I didn't have to stack everything else on also) but it's also this not-healthy kind of pain that I think is my MS royally pissed at me. it was stupid; though it felt good at the time.

what's kind of funny/odd is that the energy boost from doing all the exercise makes me want to immediately repeat the offense, though I know I need to give myself a rest day. I feel like a junkie, talking myself away from the weight bench.

talk about a switch from my old lazyass self.

Posted by Jonah the Whale (# 1244) on :

Responding to the blisters post from a couple of weeks ago. I used to get blisters regularly from playing squash (not from running or any other kind of sport). I mentioned this to an opponent once and he recommended wearing two pairs of socks. Not really believing him I tried it anyway, and have been doing so ever since. I literally have not had a blister on my feet from playing squash since then, about 20 years ago. It might not work for you, but it's worth trying.

Posted by LutheranChik (# 9826) on :

After prolonged recovery from my seizure incident I'm finally starting exercising again on a regular basis -- for me it's Wii Fit, mostly.

I'm only aiming for about 30-40 minutes per day; mostly aerobics (the Free Run and Free Step, with occasional excursions to other activities) with some strength exercises thrown in and yoga stretches before and after.

Doing the pre-workout balance checks, I was pleased to see that I am actually doing better on some of them than I was pre-incident. On the other hand, I'm just out of shape from almost 6 months of limited activity, and I'm finding it harder to bend as much as I could before. I think my "Wii Age" the last time was 60!

Posted by Think² (# 1984) on :

Had an asthma attack following outside run at a crossfit class. So backed off form the bootcamp and stuck to indoor stuff whilst waiting to see the asthma nurse. She was v enthusiastic about the exercise program, and basically said take your ventolin beforehand and come see me again in three weeks. If you are still having problems will give you a stronger inhaler. And my peak flow has improved [Smile]

So back out into the freezing world next week ...

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

wow where the heck is everyone?

I'm sneaking in in the midst of my lenten fast to brag. (yes, naughty me) I started taking tai kwon do last week and despite a very strenuous first class, I was NOT sore afterwards! hooray for base fitness levels! yay me!

the instructor also said I'm really fast so he piled me high with homework. yikes. me and goofy over-achieving self.

okay, back to my interweb fast...

Posted by Gwai (# 11076) on :

Comet: Yay TKD. Love it so much that my biggest worry last night was that my husband would get a church (which we very much need him to do) that would require us to move away from the dojang before I can get my black belt.

Posted by Rosa Winkel (# 11424) on :

Inspired by comet I'm doing the BodyRock thing, with one with squat-thrusts, press-ups, burpees, running on the spot, leg-bend jump thingees, jumping and sit-ups.

It gets me out of breath and my legs all a jelly, so I presume it's doing some good.

My score for today, in case anyone is interested is 26/16/18/123/50/36/48.

I'm also going running; I'm determined to lose some weight as some of my trousers don't fit me anymore.

Posted by la vie en rouge (# 10688) on :

I'm getting over a cold but once it gets better I am going to go running. Like really.

The weather is definitely improving and the mornings are getting lighter (although the clocks go forward soon, booooooo) so it should get more enjoyable.

[ 14. March 2012, 16:07: Message edited by: la vie en rouge ]

Posted by blackbeard (# 10848) on :

Heart rates, interval training and V 02 max

There have been a couple of telly programmes recently which have suggested that a few instances of working as hard as possible for a minute or so, then after a slight rest doing the same again, and again, all of this repeated about 3 times per week, can lead to a marked improvement in fitness in general; and, in particular, an increase in the rate at which the body can absorb oxygen (used as an indicator of maximum work rate). All for about one-and-a-half hours per week in the gym.

Useful if you wish to fly a man powered aircraft (I'm looking forward to the next instalment of Bang Goes the Theory). I have no ambition to fly a man powered aircraft but I would like to run faster.

All this seems to correspond with the interval training which is said to improve athletic performance.

How hard is "hard enough"? Usually confirmed by heart rate measurements and the traditional aim is to get it to about 80% or 90% (careful) of max, max being roughly calculated as (220 - age in years). It occurred to me, while getting my HR up to a theoretically impossible figure (silly and not recommended), that this is all very well in the gym where the kit I use has a HR measurement, but not much use when running. So my question really is, has anyone used the watch-like devices giving a reading of HR while running, do they work and are they helpful?

Disclaimer. Telly programmes mentioned above showed the measurements being done with much medical cover.

Blackbeard, old enough to know better

Posted by Jenn. (# 5239) on :

related q: exercise tends to push my heart rate slightly above the recommended aerobic rate. Is this bad or v. bad? Other than run slower, what should I do?

Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :

Please be careful folks not to give medical advice - if you have a health concern please take it to qualified professional to be dealt with.

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

Blackbeard - I read the research on this a while back and decided to do an experiment on myself. I was not NEARLY as methodical as the researchers - when I'd normally go for a run/walk/ski/bike I instead used the HIIT system outlined in the original NYTimes article I read - 4 minutes at moderate/comfortable pace, with one minute balls-to-the-wall, then back to 4 minutes, etc, for 30 minutes (ish) a session, something like 3-4 times a week. the 3-4 times a week was give or take - busy week, maybe one. rockstar week, maybe six. and activities varied depending on what I felt like doing. this was also all in addition to my semi-regular weight training (in maintenance mode) and very irregular yoga practice.

I'm still essentially doing this, some 8,9 months later. I still do it because it's more fun. that one minute all-out feels like I'm FLYING, and the time to recover means I really can perform at my max during the intense interval.

as for my improvement - like I said, I wasn't exactly methodical, but I have seen a big difference in a couple of ways. first, in the distance I can cover in that half hour - since last late summer I have added about 1/2 of a mile in the same time frame. for me, that's huge. second, and more important to me, I feel like I have more endurance and basically enjoy intense physical activity more. I can go dance my little ass of at the bar for 4 or 5 hours and not be sore or even fatigued the next day. that's a biggie for me.

I have no idea about VO2 (and I'm still a smoker, so the numbers would be bad, anyway) or anything else, and rarely pay attention to heart rate. my BP is always on the low side so I don't keep much of an eye on it. my weight hasn't changed aside from my usual added hibernation weight flux over the winter. but for the fun factor, I love HIIT and will stick to it.

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Jenn.:
related q: exercise tends to push my heart rate slightly above the recommended aerobic rate. Is this bad or v. bad? Other than run slower, what should I do?

keeping in mind what Wodders said, and IANAD - basically, yeah, run slower. do you have a heart rate monitor so you can watch how you're doing as you go?

otherwise - make sure your breaths are deep and steady without being too labored, and most of the time you could still talk clearly if not comfortably. it can take awhile to get a feel for that, but you will. maybe take turns running and walking. don't try to be a sprint star at once (this is my failing - all or nothing here!) I actually made a practice of trying to see how slow I could run for awhile. it was very enlightening, and made me realize I was pushing way too hard. try it out.

as for bad or very bad...? hellifIknow. that's a doc call and based a lot on your own physical individualities.

Posted by blackbeard (# 10848) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Jenn.:
related q: exercise tends to push my heart rate slightly above the recommended aerobic rate. Is this bad or v. bad? Other than run slower, what should I do?

Can't say anything much about this, Jenn, since

a. I'm not a medic,
b. even if I were I couldn't say anything without a medical examination,
c. I don't know what you mean by "exercise" - how hard, for instance,
d. not sure what you mean by "recommended aerobic rate".

Also I bear in mind the wise words of Wodders.

As for being "bad or v. bad" - no idea, might be normal, see above.

Solution. Speak to your medic saying words to the effect of "I'm a bit concerned about my heart rate when I'm working hard, is this normal?" and sweet talk him/her into giving you a thorough medical examination.

Posted by blackbeard (# 10848) on :

Comet, thanks for the post on HIIT, which I take to be high-intensity interval training. Interval training is much used by athletes and AFAICS is generally credited with substantial improvement. A variant of this is speed-play which is basically running at a moderate pace, and then, "To the next gate!" (or wherever) and flat out till you get there; then slow down for a few minutes.

My own experience FWIW is mainly in the gym where the machines give you an idea of work rate and heart rate, which is an incentive, and this seems to give a real improvement, much more so than running distances at a steady moderate pace (though I think I do need some of that as well). So my experience parallels yours (even, on occasion, to the dancing). The thought of working really hard, even for a short time, is daunting but it seems fine once you are there!

And flying. This (for me) tends to happen near the finish of a race especially if someone is trying to overtake. Fantastic feeling even though I know I couldn't keep it going beyond the finish. Don't know what my heart rate is during this (actually I do know but would rather not think about it!).

Interesting occupation for an elderly diabetic pensioner with an iffy medical history. I agree with my 80-year-old friend (the one who celebrated his birthday by going rock climbing) that the time to stop is when you can't any more, and ignore the calendar. Medics I have asked think this is rather splendid (but with a warning about dehydration).

Posted by Welease Woderwick (# 10424) on :

quote:
Originally posted by blackbeard:
...I agree with my 80-year-old friend (the one who celebrated his birthday by going rock climbing) that the time to stop is when you can't any more, and ignore the calendar. Medics I have asked think this is rather splendid (but with a warning about dehydration).

I think it was Woody Allen who said:

Death is nature's way of telling you to slow down.

Posted by la vie en rouge (# 10688) on :

I used a heart rate monitor for running for a while last year. I exceeded the recommended rate now and again going up hills but didn't feel like I was overdoing it, so I'm not sure. I think it's only a rough guideline probably but you should check with a proper medical person or trainer if you want to be sure.

The other way I think the gadget usefully measures your increasing fitness is by showing how long it takes for your heart rate to drop after you stop exercising.

I am a big fan of interval training (thus the hills - I have a park near my house with five parallel paths going up hill, this is awesome for zig-zagging up and down) because it gets you a pretty big endorphin hit quite quickly (junkie? me? [Biased]

)

Posted by blackbeard (# 10848) on :

quote:
Originally posted by Welease Woderwick:
[I think it was Woody Allen who said:

Death is nature's way of telling you to slow down.

True; but why slow down when not actually dead?

And to continue on HR monitors:
so far we have some distinctly lukewarm approval for these. Unless someone comes up with "best thing since sliced bread, MUST have one, I use mine every day" I'll save my money. I have too many gizmos as it is.

(And what's so good about sliced bread?)

Posted by Gwai (# 11076) on :

*slips below thread, tucks in head and then BUMP!*

Posted by blackbeard (# 10848) on :

Another slight ....Bump!... and a chance to ask

Jenn. Did you manage to get any useful information out of your tame medic?

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

hey gang. I gave up on any exercise program during the rehearsals building up to the play we opened last night. I was rehearsing 8 hours or so a day on top of my work (and parenting, and trying to eat, etc etc...) so I just decided to focus my energies there. bad idea. exercise is so good for my mental health and my energy levels! so since we opened and my schedule is about to get a lot easier, I'm kicking it back into gear, along with better eating habits. I bought a treadmill at a yard sale a few weeks ago and starting monday I'll be including treadmill time and building back up with my weight training. I really need this. neglecting my physical health did NOT help me with the show. lesson learned.

how's everyone else doing? We're having a very cool and rainy summer so far, which is part of the reason I decided to get the treadmill - that and the bumper crop of mosquitos. are the rest of you able to get some good outdoor time?

Posted by harmony hope (# 4070) on :

Comet - the mossies sound bad! Are they all day or just morning/evening? Know exactly what you mean about NEEDING exercise to feel good!

I'm joining you back on the exercise - post-op I didn't feel like doing much which just compounded the feelings of feeling rubbish (!) so I'm back to being Main Dog Walker and going to see if I'm okay to do some gentle exercise class at my local gym...

Do you have a guy called Gok Wan in the States - a style guru known for helping Real Women dress well and believe in themselves? His motto is always "Go Girlfriend!" and I'm thinking of putting that everyone round my house to remind me what to do!

Posted by la vie en rouge (# 10688) on :

I think all the running exercisers have disappeared to the thread in heaven...

Personally I have been having an attack of the mehs. This is a bad thing™. Like you, exercise is good for my mental health, trouble is that I get into a vicious cycle of don't feel like it-not going to do it-don't feel like it.

I need to get some serious running discipline back. I vill run ze half marathon, I vill. [brick wall]

Posted by Curiosity killed ... (# 11770) on :

July is rapidly looming up on the horizon and starts on Sunday. Is anyone likely to be interested in a Fitness Race? I'm checking with the Circus Hosts and if they're OK with it, I'll start a thread there shortly.

Sorry this one has snuck up on me a bit quick having lost a week this month to a chest infection.

Posted by blackbeard (# 10848) on :

Fitness Race - please count me in - I need all the motivation I can get.

Although, as sailing and singing don't count, I might not be one of the front runners, so to speak.

Posted by Tea gnome (# 9424) on :

Yay! Fitness race! This time I will WIN!
*contemplates current exercise free life*
...this time I will TAKE PART!
Are you okay to do the spreadsheets again curiosity killed? I will tentatively volunteer if you don't want to.
TG

Posted by Curiosity killed ... (# 11770) on :

I'm fine with the spreadsheets, and it's all set up to sign up - here

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

70 minutes and 10+ miles on the bike today. getting back into the swing.

Posted by la vie en rouge (# 10688) on :

New plan which I think could work quite well for me - leave my clothes, soap, towel etc etc at the office the night before (there are shower facilities) and then run to work.

Tried it this morning and got the exercise *and* the best part of an extra hour in bed. [Yipee]

(The distance is just over 6km direct, I added a couple of circuits of the park and stretched it out to about 10).

Posted by comet (# 10353) on :

great plan, LVER! I've been wanting to do something similar, but only have shower facilities at the place I work odd hours - i.e. would having me running or biking home at 3 or 4 am. the other place would be perfect except no showers. I'll keeping thinking on it, though, and see what way I can make it work.

Posted by Curiosity killed ... (# 11770) on :

OK, grovel about setting up a London walk next Saturday - Saturday 7 July. I was waiting for my daughter to contact me about when she was coming down, and she arrives at lunchtime on Saturday - which rather blows out Saturday entirely. (She's organised two tickets for a recording of Old Harry's Game on Sunday night and is spending the weekend with me). 14th July is Derby meet for many people. Sorry.

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