The Just Thought I'd Share Thread

[skcin]

Originally Posted by LikeAWillow

I've been reading a lot about how this idea is become the new school of thought in the fitness world. I feel like I, personally, need to keep cardio at least for now, though. I'm in pretty terrible shape, and the smallest things will leave me out of breath. I'm just lucky that I have a fast metabolism.

Another question-- is there any time of day that is most effective for a work out? Should I aim to get up every morning and go or are afternoons/evenings preferred?

Time of day? I've heard most claims that the morning is best. But I think that whatever time you'll actualy work out is the best time. For me, it's 5:30/6am. I've stuck to it for the past 4-5 years. I get it over with, it wakes me up & I feel great all day. My sister-in-law goes to the gym after her kids at in bed, at like 10pm. Whatever works.

Originally Posted by LikeAWillow

And a general discussion question! Who do all of you work out for? Yourselves? Your partners? The perception of the world at large? Your crush?

I'm mainly trying to get in better shape for myself. I hit a slump every single winter, and my mental and physical health just plummets. I think the two are incredibly tied together, and I'm hoping that if I commit to taking better care of my body, I'll start to feel a little emotionally more sound.

But let's also not kid ourselves here. There's a guy in this picture as well. He and I have had that charming little "you're not my friend, you're not my love" vibe going on since we broke up, and I want to start things back up this summer, at least physically. Having the body that I want when that time comes around might help me have the balls to actually go through with it.

I work out for myself mainly, because I feel better physically & mentally when I do. I am proud of myself for losing those 20 pounds 4 years ago, keeping it off, losing it again after my pregnancy. But my husband sure as hell doesn't mind (although he never minded when I was heavier either.) it doesn't hurt my self-esteem to get compliments on my tiny waist or tight abs either, but that's not my primary reason.

Originally Posted by HomerMcvie

Myself. BUT, all I can say is- I only have 3 days off this week, and I have FOUR different date offers. I'm not ****ting anyone. If I had a 4th day off, I could go on 4 different dates. My mind is reeling. They're coming out of the woodwork, and I don't know why.
I can only say that it must be a testament to staying somewhat in shape, and being a happy person(happier than I used to be, anyway). Because my life hasn't been like this, before.
^^I don't mean for any of that to sound like bragging. I'm quite confused about who I want to go out with....too many options.

What happened to the grad student?

Originally Posted by HejiraNYC

A "girl" I used to work with was a classic "skinny fat." For all intents and purposes, she looked like an attractive, thin (maybe even skinny) city girl. But she was sooo out of shape in terms of fitness. She joined an Equinox gym for their yoga classes, and they basically told her that she had an insanely high body fat percentage. Anyway, after several months of attending classes, she doesn't really look any different, but she claims to be much "tighter," more flexible and has greater stamina. The bottom line is that, unlike straight cardio, yoga is essentially a form of strength training that concentrates on the core. If weights are not your thing, I think yoga is the next best thing.

In terms of time of day... I'm sure there is an optimal period; I just don't know what it is. Ultimately you should choose a schedule that is sustainable- something you can stick with indefinitely. I don't think it makes any sense to start a regimen just to achieve a specific short-term goal; if you make it compatible with your lifestyle, then it' something you will stick with, which is the most important thing.

1) No offense, Homie, but this is how you seem to me. I mean, I'm glad you're happy with how you look, but what about your health?

2) Yoga is awesome. Posture, strength, flexibility. Love it. Pilates is great too, but you need a really good instructor. I personally would rather feel strong & healthy & tight, rather than thin or skinny.

Originally Posted by CreepingDeath

You're right. As hard as it is, I am trying to stay healthy. It's just a little difficult not to have a friend to bitch to. I was pretty much a loner growing up. I think I might go back to that, and forget about friendships...

I don't think you have to forget friendships in general. It's just going to take a while to find friends who aren't into the things you used to be into (did that make any sense?) Like, where do you meet these people? Party people hang out with other party people - so when the party stops, where do you connect with other healthy people? I wish I had a great answer for you.