new here - trying to start being healthier

littlevioletdress

Hi everyone!  I'm new to posting here.  I'm trying to get healthier and I'd love some advice.  I hate working out, but I think I might be hating how I look more.  You think that would be enough, right?  I have yet to find exercise I really like.  I used to be a competitive swimmer but it's not really a practical exercise for me now (I'd have to find and pay for a pool).

A little about me - I'm 31, 5'0", 112 lbs.  I know I'm not overweight, but I'm in horrible shape.  My worst complaint is definitely my stomach.  I just feel so gross because of it.  I can feel it all the time.  If the rest of me was the same but I had a more toned and flat stomach, I think I'd be happy!  My legs and arms are really strong; I'm naturally pretty muscular and I work retail so I lift boxes, shelves, and other stuff everyday.

I work a lot (45-55 hours a week on average) and have a 30-45 min commute each way to work.  I have Epstein Barr Virus (basically long-term mono) so I'm kind of exhausted all the time.  I know working out would help me, but I find I'm too tired to do it.

I'm not sure what I'm seeking here, but any advice is welcome!

queenofhearts1728

I really enjoy Jillian Michaels videos.. I was always relatively thin, but "skinny fat"... I had no muscle tone, I was super super weak and exhausted all the time.  I grabbed 30 Day Shred after seeing some before/after pics online and figured I'd give it a shot.  It's my favorite video to this day and I still do it regularly.  I like that it incorporates some basic weightlifting routines and HIIT-style cardio too. She has a targeted ab workout too that is awesome. 

As far as the tummy goes, that's one of my trouble zones too. All I can suggest is clean up your diet as much as you can. It takes a lot of trial and error to find out what causes adverse affects for you.  When I started paying attention to how what I ate affected me, I discovered i'm slightly lactose and gluten intolerant. I can get by in small amounts, but it tends to make me bloated beyond belief.  When I eat well and focus on eliminating foods that mess me up, my tummy looks fantastic Not super toned, but at least it's flat haha

I hope that helps

iamjoesgurl

For the stomach, I don't think it matters much what exercise you do if you don't change your diet. I run a lot, do strength training and core exercises and I still have a belly. Like the pp, I think the key to getting rid of it is what I eat (and genetics, but I have no control over that). My diet is pretty healthy but I do love to have treats (donuts, pudding, ice cream, cookies) and probably have one or two a day. I know that to lose my tummy, I need to cut out the sugar and processed carbs but I just haven't done it yet.

I'm guessing that you walk a lot in your job and like you said, you do lift boxes too. I would try to build a few exercises into your work day (e.g. 30 seconds of squats, 30 seconds of toe lifts, etc.) and if you have a lunch break, you could squeeze a few core exercises into your break just using a chair (you could spend as little as 5 or 10 minutes). You can find these by googling "exercises you can do at work". On your days off, try a 30 minute video for other exercises. Start slow and make sure that what you eat is going to set you up for success. (Make sure to bring healthy snacks and food for your breaks so that you aren't tempted to eat fast food or overeat when you get home.) Good luck!

littlevioletdress

Thanks, ladies!  Those are great ideas.  And it's nice just not to feel alone in this!

jessone

I don't know but a friend sent me this Women's Health article on yoga lol. Never tried yoga before but it looks simple enough... (famous last words).

I work in an office and haven't been working out so I'm kinda feeling out of shape too.

Thanks for these suggestions, I may try them out as well!

CantWaitforBaby

Hi!  I'm currently doing the Focus T25 workout program that is only 25 minutes a day.  It is perfect for me, I have two small kids, but it would be perfect for you because you work so many hours!  I've gotten amazing results and I'm only in my 4th week.  I also drink Shakeology that curbs my sugar cravings a TON, and cuts down my snacking.  

You can connect with me on Facebook if you want some motivation and see my personal progress.  facebook.com/JaimeLeeFitness, or shoot me and an email, JLeePond@hotmail.com, and I can give you all the information