It is obvious that it is going to take a lot of work to build strength. My worry is that I can find a program that will allow me to gradually build strength without getting discouraged.
My last experience with a gym was 20 years ago. I had a trainer that KILLED me the first day. The pain of recovery was so bad - that I never went back. I shared this with Edward - my trainer - and he promised to put together a program for me that would be tolerable.
The new mantra in fitness is CORE TRAINING. It seems that getting strong is no longer about pushing up weights or necessarily using fancy machines. Edward took me through a series of exercises that did not seem to be doing a lot to work my muscles. As we got deeper into the session - I learned how wrong I was.
Although each of these exercises uses small movements - and your own body weight as resistance - cumulatively it has a huge effect. Each segment of the workout focuses on a different muscle group - but all of them also work your abdominal muscles. After the workout is over - you are pleasantly exhausted and really feel like you have worked.
Last night I focused on hydrating - and stretching. I was in bed by 10pm - and was tired. This morning I was stiff and sore - but not so much that I would consider not continuing the program. I walked 3 miles to loosen up a bit and came home to have my coffee, hydrate and plan my day.
As the morning progressed - I can feel the lactic acid marinating my muscles. Yes, I am uncomfortable. I don't plan on doing much more today for fitness except maybe stretching later. I hope my muscles quickly recover and I will want to tackle my core training again tomorrow.
Although I knew there would be PAIN involved in getting back into shape - there is nothing like experiencing the pain to bring reality into focus. This is a complete transformation. I have not worked some of these muscles for 30 years. It is going to take time and effort to get over the initial shock to the system. I have to really focus mentally on getting through this stage of training. So - if you see a lot on inspirational nonsense on my Facebook page - you know why......
My quest is still not public. At some point - it will be. If you found me here - come visit me on FACEBOOK. You can see what I do in the real world here. Gerry's Facebook Page
it's a new reality: you'll always be in some pain when you're in a workout life. but it doesn't hurt that much.
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