Out and about with the kids. |
I recently re-homed my old treadmill in our sitting room. Seemly, I know.
The friend it had been given it to is selling her house, so I grabbed the opportunity for it back with both
It's not difficult. Finding the space to do it without the kids around *might* be. They are utterly transfixed by it so won't buzz off to the garden where they can run around properly, preferring to watch me not doing so.
Mad, I know.
Anyway, before the concussion started playing funny games with my head again, it was becoming quite enjoyable shunning any food or drink that might otherwise have been wolfed without a moment's hesitation, because burning 200 calories takes enough time for me to not wanting to have wasted it by then consuming anything that contained anything like that number .
So this meant I couldn't have a latte, but I could have a glass of wine.
I wouldn't accept an ice cream, but I would have a glass of wine.
Beer in the garden with the students was a no no, but, well, you know.... a glass of wine was a guilt-free yes, please. My blog doesn't look like this for no reason. There is a reputation to maintain.
And because I was more mindful of how many calories had been burned off and didn't casually chuck a load down my neck any longer, my clothes have started to fit me again, but don't be too impressed, because this lasted about a fortnight before there's been a bit of a relapse while I rest to help my head get better and now, the calories that are not being burned are no longer thus being spurned.
*Slaps Self*
Although keeping fit with the kids, out and about in parks, scooting, cycling, swimming, rollerblading (them), or walking everywhere (me), is probably using about the equivalent amount of energy, albeit over a longer period, it's not having the same impact, because it lacks the intensity and intention that watching 200 calories tick up on a treadmill can have on the soul.
In this light, a new pair of reebok trainers is called for as an incentive. Isn't it weird how your feet change size and shape once you've had children - a bit like we do, it could be said!?
I'm a trained Aerobics Instructor so I know how important it is to have correctly fitting footwear - it's something to bear in mind if you're returning to exercise after your kids have come on the scene and it's best to take it easy, build up slowly and learn how to use weights whilst walking if you want to.
Alas, it has given me no more discipline than anyone else - my reserves must have been drained, because although it might take months to properly recover from a head injury, it shouldn't be too hard to get it around the power of 200 Calories, should it?
[Disclosure - I have been compensated for this post but was going to write it anyway and all words and pics are my own, obvs.].
My feet are a nightmare, especially since having double surgery on one of them a couple of years ago, so comfortable and well-made shoes are an absolute must for me. Makes getting through the day so much easier x
ReplyDeleteI know what you mean - I used to be in high heels all day and flatties are heaven sent comfort nowadays!
DeleteI always used to get annoyed on my old exercise bike that I would put all this effort in and only burn off enough for a couple of custard creams- you are looking at it far more positively! Proper trainers is so important for proper exercise tho, especially now I am 40, my knees are creaky enough wi out suffering anymore stress!
ReplyDeleteIt is really annoying - you're right, hence my ability afterwards to shun the biscuits! I know what you mean about creaky knees too :)
DeleteGo you! We have an old treadmill in the garage, which my husband keeps offering to set up for me. But I've declined so far. Think I might get off my lazy ass and give it a try. Like you say, a quick 200 calories off every now and then can't hurt
ReplyDeleteOh go for it Donna - it completely changes your outlook and you're doing so well anyhow, it might give you an extra impetus!
DeleteI have a treadmill in my studio in the garden, not used it for a while but cannot part with it, must go play with it again soon. I love exercising (apart from the exercising I get with the 3yo!) but it's finding the time but I'm forcing myself as I do love eating too!
ReplyDeleteOoh, playing with it is a nice way of putting it and I know what you mean about loving that kind of exercise, vs the one we get naturally. I knew we could be friends! ;) xx
DeleteI have an exercise bike which I try to use every day even if just for 20 mins....anything to justify the glass(es) of wine at the weekends!!
ReplyDeleteGood for you! No wonder you're in such fab shape - and that wine has a lot to answer for, doesn't it? xx
DeleteI've can't remember whether or not my feet changed, far too long ago. either way new shoes are wonderful.
ReplyDeleteI've given away all my glamorous, expensive ones size 4 - they simply don't fit. I'm a 3 now with a really wide fit which is also new! Bizarre and such a shame. Not sure that trainers fit the 'new shoes' buzz but I expect you're right x
DeleteI have a nightmare with sneakers: I take years to wear them in so that they are comfy and don't make my feet feel funny. Yet brand new heels? They are comfy from the moment I wear them!
ReplyDeleteI REALLY like your style!
DeleteThis is so true. As soon as you have to 'earn' your calories it makes you very aware of not scoffing a piece of toast if you feel peckish. And I was so happy when I discovered white wine was not so calorific after all....;)
ReplyDeleteGlad you concur - and Champagne even less, non? ;) xx
DeleteGood for you.... Sorry to hear you have had a relapse though - hope you are feeling better now...... Keep on keeping on the treadmill. XXX
ReplyDeleteThank you - will do when I can xx
DeleteWell Done you, Im terrible for the good stuff in life...crisps, lifts, escalators...lol.. x
ReplyDeletep.s hope the issue with concussion is soon sorted, sending big hugs xxx
Thank you. We all have our vices. The name of your blog gives you away too ;)xx
DeleteWell done you. I've been trying to walk more/eat less for the past 2-3 weeks but 'fell off the wagon' last night - back on it today though! Maybe a treadmill is the way forward?
ReplyDeleteThank you. It soon shows when you make the effort but as we get older it takes so much more! They're a worthwhile investment if you can get the time :)
DeleteI am currently in a similar space with regards to being more mindful about what I eat and drink and doing more exercise. Moving house and juggling work with the school hols has played havoc with my body - mainly, I've totally let myself go. I'm back on it now though... starting to think I need a treadmill like yours!
ReplyDeleteIt's so easy to let ourselves go when trying to keep up our energy for our little ones, let alone when moving house and changing jobs too, but at least you're on it swiftly afterwards. Treadmills are only useful when you use them, rather than lend them out, or use them as close horses, which I gather is their most common one! xx
DeleteI recently did a month off sugar and my mentor really made me focus on what 200 calories was if I was after a snack. From biscuits it is empty, wasted and not great. But you would be hard pushed to get 200 calories from cheese as a snack for instance. So go for cheese or nuts everytime.
ReplyDeleteIt is only when you focus on stuff like that that it really hits home isnt it?
That's such a coincidence! And yes, the focus makes a huge difference. Good for you for the month off sugar x
DeleteOh honey I should have read this before sending you an SMS earlier. Honey I did not know your concussion was back. SHIT! Sorry! Hope you are coping. If there is anything at all I can do please let me know.
ReplyDeleteGood on you for fitting into your clothes etc... I could do with some of that.
Great post, REALLY enjoyed it.
Liska x
You're so kind and weren't to know. Thank you for your concern and glad you enjoyed the post xx :)
DeleteWell done you on the exercise and a trained aerobics instructor, well I never! You dark horse.
ReplyDeleteHope the head is on the mend, Mich x
Thank you - have never felt or looked less like one! I believe the head business takes more time than I had first hoped xx
DeleteWell done you. A friend gave me her treadmill years ago when she moved to Canada and I love it. Started to get back on the saddle properly recently, burning 200 a day (taking a day off at weekends). Relieves stress, helping me lost my baby weight and feel so much more energetic (when little one doesn't keep me up teething) than before! Go you and wow well done on being an instructor too, no end to your talents x
ReplyDeleteThank you. How exciting to be back in the saddle properly - so glad it's working for you - have been a bit nervous but might take inspiration from you! It's a very old talent ( a bit like me!). xx
DeleteI hate it when the kids stare at me when I'm on the treadmill. So disconcerting.
ReplyDeleteIt's enough to put anyone off - but good for you for persisting!
DeleteI really need to get on our treadmill or cross trainer! Well done you!
ReplyDeleteIt'll wait for you as long as you need, thank you - go for it!
DeleteHear, hear. Power to 200 calories. x
ReplyDeletePower indeed! x
DeleteLove that you have it in your sitting room. Would be tempted to exercise in front of the TV then! :D
ReplyDeleteWell it has to be in there because of all my students and I thought that would be handy - however it has to face the other way or it can't be folded to stand out of the way. I stick loud music on instead from it though :)
DeleteI hope you are feeling better now? I know what you mean about the 200 calories. Pre children when i actually exercised I was much more careful about what I ate.
ReplyDeleteThank you Emma - rest really helps and there isn't much of that atm! Yes - discipline breeds more of it!
DeleteSo much of it is psychological isn't it? Seeing that 200 calories would make all the difference to me.
ReplyDeleteYou're absolutely right - and not seeing them is making all the difference too!
DeleteI'd love to get a treadmill at home. I really would need it to be in the living room though and hubby would hate that. Maybe some time in the future. Go girl!
ReplyDeleteIt's very easy not to see it surprisingly quickly and they do fold up.... go girl! Thank you x
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