Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) - the kind where it hurts to sit on the toilet and it's a struggle to hold your arms up to blow dry your hair. This is me today! Some weeks I feel like I live in a perpetual state of soreness. I work out for about 30 minutes, 3 times a week. Doesn't seem like much right? Let me tell you, more is not always better. I've recently graduated to 30lb weights (I still can't believe it) and have been finding myself sore after only a few hours from finishing my workout as opposed to not feeling it until the next day. Hurts so good!
At work I've been called Killer Kira. One client even came up to me after class last week and asked if I had a special degree in torture. LOL! If they only knew that I put myself through the same kind of "torture" maybe they would feel better. At least they can blame me for their soreness. I have no one to point a finger at. My workout buddy is too sweet :)
I'm a member of the 5am workout club and let me tell you, 5am comes quick. There are many mornings that I would rather hit snooze and stay in bed than pick up my weights. After all, no one is there making sure I get it done. Some days I even try to convince myself that I am going to do just that but I always give in and end up in the garage. What makes me get out of bed? My commitment to myself to stay healthy. I remind myself how great I will feel when I'm finished, filled with all of those lovely feel good endorphins and hormones. They energize me for the day. Starting my day with a workout helps me make better choices with food throughout the day and that is huge for me. The assumption that I can eat whatever I want and stay fit is so far from the truth. Working out also keeps me honest. How can I effectively motivate and teach others about healthy habits if I'm skipping workouts for no good reason?
As far as goals go I'm finding that as I get older they are not so much about vanity as they may have been before. I'm not trying to have the best set of abs or the nicest legs. My workouts are geared towards fat loss. So yes, while it is nice to see my dedication and hard work pay off by losing fat and gaining muscle , I simply want to be healthy. The active older adult population at the gym inspires me. Many of them are there most days of the week. They prove that staying active and maintaining muscle mass decreases so many health issues that much of the older population faces. I want to be the grandmother who can still lift weights in the gym and keep up with the youngins'.
Let's not forget the most important reason I stay disciplined. It's because I have been gifted with a body that is capable. My body was created and designed by God and keeping it healthy to the best of my ability honors Him. Often we hear that our body is our temple. If my body houses the Holy Spirit I think I should do my best to provide a good residence. I want to respect what has so graciously been given to me.
Staying fit makes me feel good and when I feel good I can help others feel good. I'm thankful that this comes easier for me because I know it doesn't for many people. I only hope that I can be an inspiration for them, that by living a healthy lifestyle I can influence those around me. to do the same. Not every workout is easy, but every workout and every sore muscle is worth it.
So for all of you currently renovating your own temples....this plank is for you!
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