Overwhelmed But Not Defeated!

Another Tuesday is coming to a close, and I have now completed two work-outs at Farrell's gym.  Yesterday was a huge surprise to me as I started the "art" of kickboxing.  I have never thought of myself as someone who is uncoordinated, but last night's class was a bit of an eye opener for me!  Thus, the reason that I didn't share any of my experience last night after class.  I came home, took off my shoes and layed on the floor for about 45 minutes, just trying to see if I had the strength to fix any dinner.  Thankfully, my daughter Katie was a big help in building my confidence post work-out!  Now, don't get me wrong, I know that I'm out of shape and have poor endurance.  And I have to keep telling myself...baby steps Mary.....baby steps.   However, and that's a BIG however......I had no idea how out of shape I truly am.  Plus, I am not someone who likes to be embarrassed, so last night's class was really a challenge.  From wrapping my wrists, to pivoting on my foot (so that I don't "blow" out my knee), I felt like a bull in a china shop.  (And, no I don't mean to compare my physical appearance to that of a bull.)  I was an uncoordinated, panting, sweating 51 year old woman who is trying to improve her health and longevity.  And I just couldn't figure how to do the gosh darn moves!!!!!!!   Grrrrrrrrrrrr

Tonight went much better and I have a more positive outlook on the program.  We did resistance training with bands and I actually didn't do half bad.  Can I pull the green band over my head with ease after 3 sets of 16 reps????  Ummm.....nope.  But I discovered some things called muscles in my upper inside arm, that I swear were never moving before!!  (that's because they really haven't been moving....)  It was a really strange sensation.  Funny how exercise can do that for a person.  Wow!!

After class came the "nutrition" meeting that should have been VERY helpful to me.  I have never truly looked at labels when choosing my food and I have become such a fan of the Food Network channel.  Now I have to read how many carbs, grams of protein, and calories are in the foods that I want to eat.  I know that it's going to be the healthiest way for me to "refuel" my body, but people...even though I think I am a great nurse; I nearly flunked nutrition in nursing school.  And, my friends, there is a reason for that.  I hate, hate, HATE nutrition!!!  So, I am going to have to divert back to watching more of HGTV and less of The Barefoot Contessa.  (sigh)  Just when I thought that I was going to become a culinary artist, I now realize that basic is best.  (and way less calories, for sure!)  I am fairly overwhelmed at this challenge, but I'm hoping in the coming weeks, that I can figure out meals that are not only tasty but healthy as well.  Until then, my poor hubby (who doesn't know this yet...) is going to have to come to bat for me.  Ken is not a fan of standing at the grill, and after a grueling day at work, I can't blame him.  However, he is my go-to guy and he needs to "go to the grill" and help me cook up some lean proteins!!!  Lastly,I would also like to say that  the support at work from my co-workers has been amazing.  They are my cheering section and are already sharing some food ideas and soon, recipes to help me figure out my day to day routine.  I am SO lucky to have such great friends (aka co-workers) and family who "have my back".  In times of stress and challenge, you truly know who your friends really are!!  For that, I am truly greatful.

I still can't do a "real" sit-up and my behind is still sticking up too high during my push-ups, but my muscles are waking up.  How did that Rip Van Winkle fable go????  Please, puhlease....don't nickname me "Rip."  Unless you are commenting on my muscles!!

Here's to another 120 ounces of water.  Cheers all.......