Monday, April 13, 2009

Getting in Shape


Some lucky women never have to worry about this, but as we age, waning metabolism becomes our new worst enemy. For me, things started going down hill at 25, literally and figuratively, if you know what I mean. It's almost as if gravity conspired with some metaphysical force to make things not only move downward, but to move outward at the same time. It didn't help that 25 was the year I became engaged and the stress involved in planning my wedding only made things worse. Hitting the gym was suddenly top priority and while it took many months, diet and exercise did pay off.

So after the elation of the engagement has subsided and you settle into wedding planning, you also may start to notice diet and exercise become a higher priority than in the past. For some of us, it's merely a matter of toning up, while others desire to lose extra poundage. Whatever the case, there is always a solution, and you'll be surprised to know that they are available for all types of budgets.

  • P90X is all the rage right now. It's a series of workout videos and nutrition guides designed to be your complete at home fitness training system. This allows you to workout on your own schedule, making it great for those who are pressed for time.
  • Join a local bootcamp. This is a great way to make new friends and push you out of your comfort zone. Call up gyms in your area or visit Adventure Bootcamp to find one near you.
  • Gym America is an online personal trainer. Although they do require a monthly fee, they offer message boards, customized workout routines and diet plans, and over 150 animated exercise demonstrations.
  • Cynthia Conde's Online Bridal Bootcamp is another online system, much like Gym America, but geared towards brides looking to lose weight and tone up for their wedding. This "virtual drill sergeant" will keep you on track with intense cardio workouts, daily meal plans, a motivated online community, and 15 online tools to track your progress.
  • Although it's probably the most expensive, a personal trainer is generally pretty effective. You can usually meet them in their home or yours, negating the need for an added gym membership, and having to report to an actual person is a great way to keep you on track.
Go To The Gym recycled felt applique pillow found via Etsy.

3 comments:

Teacher Lucinda said...

I have been using self.com for a while. They have great workouts (in a searchable database) and Challenge plans. All for free online, you have to do is give them your email address.

Jennifer said...

Thank you for the tip Lucinda!

Social Weight Loss said...

I love the pillow with " GO TO THE GYM" reminder that's going to be effective whenever you're not in the mood and just want to sleep all day your pillow won't let that happen.Thanks!

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