How I did it: I alternated with a couple sets of weights: 3 pounders and 5 pounders. Some days I do circuit training following an exercise DVD, like The Firm. My favorite of these DVDS is Hard Core Fusion. It alternates strength training with cardio, which I liked because it made it less boring and more fun. On the days I feel lazy I follow a work-out program from a strength training book that I have. You can find the same exercises online though. I like the book because I can work-out while watching my favorite TV shows. It also works out your muscles a lot more than circuit training does, so I usually try to do just strength training at least once every other week. Right now I've been doing strength training about 3 times a week and I can tell a huge difference. I am more able to move furniture around my house. Before, I would always have to ask the guys for help re-arranging the house, but now I am able to move all the furniture on my own. I still dread doing lunges, but I am hoping for the day when I don't dread them any longer!

Lessons & tips: Find a work-out routine that you can enjoy. I've found that if your routine is boring, you are less likely to stick with it. Mixing up your routine every now and again is also a good idea. 

Resources: SparkPeople: This website is simply phenomenal. You can track everything you eat, minutes you exercise, strength training, etc. There are also a bunch of strength training exercises available that you can make a routine out of. You can pick and choose which exercises you want to do and on which day. Since there is a tracker on the site, you will always know which days you worked out which muscle group, so you never have to worry about trying to remember when you last worked out. 

Aug 01, 2010, 07:45AM PDT | 0 comments | 1 cheer