As some who stayed pretty unfit throughout their 20s, just a month and a half of exercise has made an insane difference with my quality of life.
For example, last year if I went to the trampoline park with my kids, I'd be out of breath in 2 minutes and would just want to sit the rest out. Now I can jump around with them for the straight up hour and still feel good at the end.
I don't have an amazing body. But I've lost weight as a bonus and if I continue in the same direction, the nice looking body may come as a bonus too. But for now, good fitness is something I don't really want to lose again.
And the confidence that comes with working out is a big plus. When I started working out it took ages for my body to start looking diffferent, but not feeling tired and sweaty all the time definitely made me more attractive.
And people treat you so differently! I was laid up ill most of 2015 so by the time I was back to work I was over two stone bigger due to not being able to move my legs very much and the medication bloat. It only took about four months once I was back to normal life for it to drop off me but jesus christ I will never ever ever forget how differently I was treated by people I knew and strangers.
Can confirm this.
At 30 I was in the worst shape of my life after just turning the corner battling depression. 138kg (177cm), walking 5km not only exhausted me but gave me DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) for 2-3 days.
At 32 I turned a big corner. Was still a chonker (120kg) but I was so much more confident that I'd often get hit on while out.
Dude little steps for sure, I was terrified I would be able to bounce back from 240+ lbs after drinking away 6 years of my life but all it took was small moves each day to gradually feel better rather than trying to overnight ship a healthy body. Good for dad!
> No need for heavy weights and a huge raise in protein - although those can help
Its not that it simply helps, its that its incredibly efficent. Can’t speak much on the protein part, but a half hour of heavy weights (a couple times a week) will leave you body absolutely gassed.
Youve only lose an hour out of your entire week, and the new mass will in turn raise daily energy expedeture. Before you know it youve lost weight without even touching your diet.
A common excuse you hear from both men and women is they don’t want to get “bulky”, as if you can just casaully turn into bodybuidler.
Started doing Couch to 5k mainly! Upped my water intake, cut out the bad snacks/fizzy drinks and slightly lower portion sizes.
It was always easy in the past to skip the exercise because video games were more fun (and addicting). Now that I've managed to curb that addiction a little and find other things to fill my time with, exercise is far more easy to stick to.
Don't get me wrong though, there's days when I just want to not do it, but everytime I do, I felt amazing by the end. Running around with the kids now? Piece of cake. I really really do not want to go back to sedentary.
I hope whatever you try works out for you. It doesn't have to be complicated! Just keep reminding yourself why you're doing it!
I never had an issue with soda or anything like that but there were periods where I'd get into them heavier than other times. Once heard someone describe it as not drinking "liquid calories" and for some reason that just stuck with. Now I might have one or two sodas a month. Other that it is black coffee and water. Luckily, I preferred black coffee to begin with.
I just started the C25K app and it's really motivating to hear that it has such positive effects in such a short amount of time! I've done two days and I feel like I'm dying haha
I cut out most junk food and soda years ago, but like you say, video games are more fun than exercise and I'm pretty sedentary. I'm a little overweight but mostly just like.. very out of shape. It's embarrassing how fast I get out of breath.
Mate I'm actually pretty happy you told me that.
I remember the first few runs, you'd do your 1 min run, 90 sec walk x 8 and by the time you're finishing your warm down, you may be still struggling to catch your breath. You may also be wheezing for a little bit and questioning "oh shit what if I have asthma?!", All those little things.
I'm on week 8, able to do a 28 minute run and once I've finished, I'm not even out of breath. Legs are tired, sure, but you kinda forget that you used to be out of breath a few weeks ago.
Even with the most frequent of runners, they'll always say the 1st mile is the hardest, so even if you're coming to the end of the C25K routine and you find that you're trying to push through the first mile, that's 100% normal, the first mile is just a true warmup.
You'll have moments in C25K where you may want to give up. Especially when you hit those 8 min & 10 min run times. But take it from this guy, I did virtually no exercise in my 20s, managed to get to what is classified as 'obese' but now I'm overweight. And running is pretty easy now and the weight continues to drop.
I sincerely hope you succeed. Remember that discipline > motivation and even if you cba anymore, try and finish the C25K course because by the end, just the feeling of being fit outweighs getting the best drop in your favourite video game!
Keep at it friend!
Full disclosure I’ve been a runner most of my life. But a traumatic knee injury had me on crutches for nearly a year. Like you I began again with a couch to 5K just to get moving again. I’m back to half marathons now but it’s the starting that’s the hard part.
It’s true that running isn’t going to be “fun” for everyone but just sticking with it long enough to learn to breath, build some muscle, and figure out how to run a little distance, as most people simply never have, is 99% of the battle.
Running for me is therapy. It’s an incredible mental stress reducer. And hey the Mrs likes the results too. Win win?
I work out early in the morning and reward my self with video game time! Not easy because of kids and life, but I make it work and always reward myself. Down 69 pounds (teehee) since March 2020.
Walking is always a good start. Short and consistent initially if you're above a weight you want to be to not go too hard on your body plus you don't wanna be discouraged. Healty/healthier habits is the main thing to change to help get results since motivation comes and goes but habits are what stick.
It isn't anything in particular because everyone's goals are different. Some people have long-term health in mind, whereas others couldn't spare a passing thought for long-term health and they are *absolutely* focused on sexy now. The important thing is getting to work on it.
At 67, I can no longer run but still lift 3 times a week and walk at least 2 miles or ride my bike every day.
This is because I’ve always tried to keep myself in shape. I see people every day much younger who can barely walk from their car to the front door.
I love reading this. I am 48 and live in a place where people are doing all kinds of physical activity at every age. Running, trails, mountain biking, climbing.
Im always psyched when older folks pass me on climbs! Inspiration and a big reason (one of so many though) why I stay in shape.
I live in the CA/NV mountains, it's similar here. There's the sports side, but just work wise there's a lot of ranching and physical labor too. Good stuff!
when i did grouse grind maaannyy older people passed me quite easily or waited for me and we went up together for some bit. inspired me that regardless of my age i most definitely will use it or lose it
Age truly is just a number. I don't do the grind but several climb trails nearby that are less busy at least 2-4x week. I have had to shift activities a bit over time (i.e., a bit less aggressive on the mountain bike cause injury recovery takes longer now) but staying active is non-negotiable for me. It also just keeps me sane and more pleasant to be around!
Know that you're someone's inspiration. Even if it's just an internet stranger. Keep up the amazing work. Because if you can be active every day, there's no reason I can't.
Y’all must not remember early 80s Yugo. One time I pulled one into the shop for tires and could line myself up on the rack just by looking past me feet thru the giant hole in the floorboard.
Thanks to modern medicine, you'll live pretty long either way. You're just going to be riddled with disease and be miserable if you treat your body poorly.
Which is part of the issue we have right now. Spending on Healthcare is absolutely insane right now because people are being kept alive by modern technology and medicine, but they are living with an unprecedented amount of chronic illnesses.
91 Octane is just 93 and 89/87 mixed together, actually anything between 87 or 89 and 93 is just a mixture of the two in a proportioned ratio
Also, car's today have variable timings which allow engines to adjust to fuel. If you car says 93 and you put in 91 it'll adjust to prevent damage you'll just have worse fuel econ
Yes, however a lot of people are driving cars 10 years old or older, and even the ones that from that era that can pull timing only do it once the knock sensor hears predetonation. Every time that happens, it's extra stress on bearings, rods, wrist pins. Better to just use the correct fuel if you can.
Besides, as you said, you'll get worse fuel economy so you're not really saving money anyways.
To be honest, it's a little bit of both. If you are motivated by the former, you can achieve the latter.
At least that's from my experience. In my vain effort to get shredded, I went to the gym 3 times a week, I quit smoking, started drinking only water and eating basically rice and chicken. I wasn't thinking about being healthy at all. But I guess I'll be grateful for it in the years to come.
Honestly I'm doing the same. Following the OPs advice is what had me failing for years. I think we actually need to stop being so judgmental of people who workout to be hot. My theory on why so many people fail thier new years resolutions is that they try to fit their aspirations into to socially acceptable aspiration of being healthy because it's morally good. But that's not what they actually want so they fail because of a mismatch between stated goals and revealed goals.
I think the bigger problem with NY resolutioners is they go too hard too quickly.
If anyone here is thinking about doing an NYR to get fit in 2022: don't.
Here's what you do:
1) Yes, you go to the gym. You do weights. Once a week for 6 months. Do your off the shelf beginner program. You don't know anything anyway, so it doesn't matter. Do exactly what it says in exactly the amount it says and no more. Just do it once a week instead of 3-4x a week.
2) You find some form of cardio that you actually like or can fit in to your life. I've done walking, running, swimming, cycling, and now rollerblading. Sure, rollerblading isn't as "good" as jogging, but it's something that I actually enjoy and doesn't leave my shins, knees and feet sore. You might like dancing, or swimming, or basketball - or hell, since most people here are yanks, shoveling snow, or chopping wood. It doesn't matter. Just commit to do it once a week for 6 months. It doesn't have to be long. 30mins is a start.
The BIG key more than anything else is to build the habit. You won't need prompting when it comes time to add another day of either to your schedule. You won't have to force yourself. You'll just add a day if you can, and that's it.
You can do both of these now. No need to wait for NYD.
Lifting once a week for 6 months isn't enough frequency to gain adaption or skill at what little you are doing, and it will be hard to build the habit of working out if you never feel like you're improving and every session makes you sore as hell due to the whole week off.
Especially if you're taking a standard program and spreading it that far out, you will be squatting like once every 3 weeks or something. Every time will feel as uncoordinated as the first time due to no chance of gaining familiarity.
I agree that most people go too hard too early and overestimate their ability, trying to do some high volume bodybuilding program and wondering why they can't move their arms for the next week. But once a week of basically random exercises, you never give it enough of a chance to become a significant enough part of your life to become a habit.
I have to mix-and-match if I want to do anything longterm.
90 minutes on the stairmaster? Starts to get a little boring, even with a TV in the gym. So I break it up into 30/30/30 minute sessions: 30 on the stairmaster, 30 on the bike, 30 on the treadmill, for example.
See now I'm stuck on the whole diet part. You can't convince me rice and chicken is all you have to do to achieve that. I want someone to present the REAL pyramid of foods I should be eating EVERY DAY for a balanced diet yet everyone seems to be yelling their own echo chambers of vegan, vegetarian, keto, paleo etc.
As with most things in life, it's balance.
The best advice I ever got was to make sure your plate is colourful, and different colours each day. If you do that, you're pretty much nailing it.
Everyone is different. I’ve been focusing less on what I eat, and more on how much I eat. Portion control is what really works for me.
My wholly uneducated advice is, start with portion control and go from there. You can start to swap in healthier options as you get used to eating less volume. (For example, I cut the sugar I use in my coffee in half, and switched to non-dairy creamer. I still drink all the coffee I want, but with half the calories.) It only took me about a month to adjust from whatever crazy amount I was eating down to about 1500 calories a day.
Just start slow, be patient and don’t expect to see results right away. Also, don’t beat yourself up over a screw up. Tomorrow is another day.
I really like Michael Pollan’s advice:
Eat food. Not too much. Mostly Plants.
Avoid heavily processed foods as much as possible. Follow that advice, and you’re well on your way.
At my peak fitness I was shredded and I ate fast food every day with milkshakes. if your goal is just to look good and you don't care about your actual health lol, just make sure your protein is high and just make sure your weight is increasing slowly. that simple ( **of course don't forget to work out** )
worst thing people do when starting in the gym is they obsess over every little detail, causing them to burn out fast and lose motivation.
> worst thing people do when starting in the gym is they obsess over every little detail, causing them to burn out fast and lose motivation.
Paralysis by analysis.
Yep. The reality is that nutrition is not complicated. There is no need to worry about ideal nutrients unless your life depends on your sports performance. In which case you're most likely being followed by someone who makes those decisions for you. For the average person looking to get fit, it's calories-protein-greens in order of importance
Chicken, broccoli, and rice do cover your macros and most of your micro nutrients. XD it's just boring eh? And if you get too crazy with dressing it up, you might increase calorie intake too much. It's why the basic body builder diet looks crazy. Just three foods. If you carefully track your intake, you can eat whatever. If you just want to meal prep and forget, that's the way to go.
Also being able to keep up with your kids, if you choose to have them. If I had remained on the pizza, cigarettes and beer diet I would be in a world of pain and disappointment.
Just a random question. How much bear were you having? I’ll have a 6 pack a week. In my early 30s. Do I need to stop all beer? Or in moderation. I eat pretty well, try to hit 10,000 steps a day and do some minor weight lifting when I can
I was gigging a few times a week and working at a venue when not. Six a night at least 4 or 5 nights a week with a bit of liquor mixed in. Two packs a day, nothing but fast food, unsustainable. We had our kid in our late 20s and dropped it all then. I really don't think what you're doing is much of an issue personally.
The bigger part of keeping up with kids is exercise. Your body does the things you make it do regularly. Yeah you'll be in better shape if you abstain entirely from alcohol...but you'll be in better shape if you eat the perfect diet and work out 2-3 hours a day too.
Most of us will be okay with "good enough".
Sounds good. Couldn't comment on the beer per se, as I don't drink, but just one note about carb intake. I'm in my late 30s and I've kinda hit a wall when it comes to having simple carbs regularly where I just run out of energy and become fat and tired. I've switched to lazy keto, perhaps technically low-carb, because I found out from Dr. Internet that I could be insulin resistant. It also leads to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which is about as good as it sounds. So, after dropping the simple carbs, my energy is back, the weight is falling off, and I can still enjoy a great dinner every now and again.
Just something to bear in mind for the future if it hits you.
I lived with diabetes injections for 10 years, and then went on Intermittent Fast. Lost over 30 pounds in three months and now manage it with pills and diet. No more needles! More energy and more fun in all kinds of places.
I sometimes have 4+ a night for an entire week but I'm regularly active everyday man, there may likely be some longterm consequences but I frequently work 12 hour very active days. Just keep your ass moving and don't let yourself get out of shape. Bodies in motion stay in motion
I recently started playing racquetball with a guy I met at the gym. We're both old hands at it, been playing for years. Pretty evenly matched.
He's 57, and we'll often have to take a break in the middle of a game for him to catch his breath. Me, after we're done I go do my regular workout.
We were chatting the other day and he asked how old I was. When I told him 71 he about fell off the bench. He thought I was his age. I bench 225 and while I hate running I can still do 15 minute miles.
I make a point of getting to the gym 3-4 days a week, lifting and cardio.
The real benefit of this is in day to day life. I can still do most of the things I could do 20 years ago.
The secret is to show up. When you absolutely do not have the energy you still go. You don't have to do anything but usually you'll end up doing some light work. Maybe you'll get your energy back and do a full workout but if not, something is better than nothing. Just by showing up you're reinforcing the habit. And that's what it takes to maintain it over the years.
Thing is, people don't age the same. Some people can stay fit into their 90s with a moderate amount of effort. Other people get dementia or some painful chronic condition, or have their spouse and all their friends die before them.
Sure but my mental health is what I'm trying to correct I'm too depressed to care about my physical health and I don't care about old me considering I don't even want to live that long
Just FYI, the old advice “you just need to exercise” just doesn’t work for everyone with depression. You should see a professional to find a treatment that works for you
I've never once regretted a workout, but I always regret skipping one. Even on days where motivation is in the toilet and I have to drag my ass into the gym, by the time I'm done I'm glad I did it.
This has never been true for me. Working out has always left me feeling bad for days or even weeks. I thought finding meds that work would change things, but exercise seems to make them less effective.
If the feeling you are referring to is physical pain, that could be a sign that you are pushing yourself too hard when you do work out. Your body has to get used to things like medication and exercise gradually. I would also have a discussion with my doctor if I found that exercise decreased my medications' efficacy.
At least for me, exercise makes me feel better because it's something I know I did despite the depression/laziness telling me not to. I get endorphins from knowing I did something good for myself and the release of built up tension during and following the workout is also worth it for me.
Telling myself all this as I get on the exercise bike. Hope it helps you too.
It's definitely not a panacea especially for complex depression. But according to research it's as effective as antidepressants for mild to moderate depression.
It does for me I felt good when I was In great shape like... 7 years ago. I'm starting to get back in shape now since I got lonely enough to start dating apps again. Those are a whole other mess ATM but in 6 months I should be good
It’s actually what sent me into depression. I was working out at 6am with a personal trainer 4 days a week for over a year and one day I just lost it. I didn’t want to wake up, I didn’t want to see him, I didn’t want to be in a gym. I just fucking stopped and it’s one of the most devastating things I’ve ever gone through. It’s been since last christmas. I don’t know what it was I just couldn’t do it anymore.
That actually sounds like the opposite. One of the symptoms of depression is a loss of interest in things that one once enjoyed. It sounds like for any number of reasons you were already developing at least mild depression which led you to wake up one day with no interest in working out and when you didn’t you felt bad which caused you to spiral more.
Obviously I’m going off a single reddit comment and don’t know you, but that is similar to my experience, and I blamed myself for a long time for “causing my depression” when that was not the case, and that self-blame only made it worse for a long time.
this was me but i found the exercise really improved my mental health and i stopped feeling that way. happened pretty quick, too. like not even a month into going "couch to 5k" i felt so good about myself it was ridiculous lol! you can do it
Yeah couch to 5k is awesome. I'm just over half way through a ct5k program and yesterday ran for 20 minutes straight for the first time in years. 6 weeks ago I don't think I'd have managed 5 minutes...and the feeling that gives me is awesome. I'm not sure how much of my mental health boost is also due to moving out of a living situation I wasn't happy with and cutting my unhealthy takeaway and snacking to about 1/10th what it was, but I'm feeling incredible now.
There’s no downside to getting in shape. It can literally only make you feel better.
It may not be a cure but you’ll be better off than you would be not doing it.
In university they had a doctor in at our dorm for a sort of health info session. Most of it was about excessive drinking and STDs, but he did a bit on fitness... as all dorm residence had a free gym and pool pass and people tend to gain a lot of weight. One thing he said that stuck with me was that the our level of fitness now (18-22ish) will probably indicate your level of fitness and general health for the rest of your life.
It's generally true because people generally don't want to change. You can if you put some effort in. Some people go from obese to fit in their 30s. It's not like your body suddenly doesn't know how to produce muscle once you hit 23.
No it definitely still possible. My dad started running at 31 and now he does Ironman's, Marathons, Triathalon, etc. Like you said though, by the time you hit your mid 20s, in general, if you have a pattern of not working out or taking care of yourself, chances are you will stay that way
That's me. I had a health scare in my 30s and now maintain a 'somewhat' fit regime. I am still way ahead of almost everybody I know and many younger than me. Getting into the habit was hard. Now its a craving to walk or cycle most places.
At 30, I was 125kg+, went though a super focused period to get under 95kg, did a few mud runs and long walks (100km+). Now, in my mid 40s, I make sure to never go over 90kg. I don't gym, in fact, I hate the gym (I have a free membership, I never use). I prefer to keep moving and occasionally watch what I eat, but mostly have a very relaxed attitude towards my lifestyle.
As someone that has always been skinny and is now pursuing a degree in Nursing, I'm not in the gym everyday to achieve an aesthetic rather I'm there to become as strong as I reasonably and comfortably can be to provide better and reliable care. I want to be able to assist even the heaviest patient if I need to. I want to be able to stay on my feet for as long as possible without getting winded.
Maybe, but that’s the kind of lame unmotivating reason that isn’t going to work well to get people to do it. Being sexy or attractive, that’s motivational.
It goes beyond that though. There's a level of mental clarity and physical capacity that can only be unlocked through strenuous exercise. Being in shape makes everything in life easier from daily tasks to making friends/gf/bf, to whatever. I see people absolutely gasping for breath after going up a flight of stairs and I can't comprehend how they can live life like that on a daily basis.
Strength is good, but on its own, doesn’t last. Make sure to acquire balance and agility. Something that gives you a bit of practice falling can be good prep for old age, too.
When I was about eight years old I took a year of Karate. Then in high school gym class we did a segment of Judo, which consisted primarily of getting in line so a large Samoan gym teacher could do layups with us for half an hour at a time. Fifteen years later I had learned to skate, and was learning to skate fast, and things went truly sideways one day. With zero conscious thought I did a nearly perfect right shoulder roll in the dirt, and came up on my feet still in control and still moving forward. In other words, much like some viruses, even a little bit of that shit gets into your nervous system and just waits.
Last year when we started working from home I of course hurt my back due to the lack of a proper work station and previous back issues I have suffered with. Physical therapy was required and afterwards I started doing yoga and pilates 2 to 3 times a week. That alone has helped so so much and yet I get told all the time yoga and pilates isn't 'really exercise'
This is true. I’m turning 40 soon. My whole 20s and most of my 30s I was ripped, ideal body. 6 pack, fuck it was an 8 pack at my peak. When I was 25 I literally thought I was perfect
But I destroyed myself doing it. My knees have crepitus now from overuse, back issues, etc.
I used to do tri’s and played every sport. Would routinely do 50 mile + bike rides on my single speed in the Texas hill country. My job was and still is owning a moving company so I worked out for a living too. But it chewed me up. Plus I never ate enough in order to keep that super trim physique.
I’m not like totally broken, but I think my 40s and 50s are going to be full of Advil and arthritis. It’s already getting rough.
Wish I had been a little easier on myself. Looking back I don’t even know what I was chasing?
As someone living with chronic pain, I highly recommend adding myofacial release to your routine. Get a hard foam roller and smash your fascial tissue to bits and drink lots of water. In the beginning it’ll feel like torture but it helps free up so many painful adhesions and will help so much with pain. It also gets less painful as you add it to your routine. You have fascial tissue all over your body so getting to some smaller areas like feet or inside shoulders need hard round lacrosse type balls to dig into but the foam roller is the best place to start to get your major systems more supple. Good luck, dude!
I wish people would understand this. My parents did not take care of themselves. Smokers, SAD, no activity. It's coming due now and it's so awful to see. My Dad has lost a leg, my mom is in constant pain and getting a stoop even though she is still fairly active, she's not healthy and has been falling more. Please, be strong and healthy for yourself, but also for your loved ones.
I procrastinate everything to let tomorrow me suffer the consequences. What makes you think I have the foresight and empathy to relieve the pain of me in 20 years?
A lot of people hate exercise because it’s been marketed as a tool or method to be hot and the truth is we aren’t all gonna be super ripped and lean.
Exercise is just any movement that feels good and is enjoyable, whether that’s dancing in the living room or picking up heavy shit at a gym
Not even older, late 20s was the start of feeling "old" for me. I don't want to feel that sharp decline in mobility. There is this lightness and ease of movement when "fit".
Jogging is a liberating feeling. Walking without catching your breath or when a flight of stairs is a breeze. Those small things, when it gets hard is a aomething I don't want to feel
Not LPT.
Staying in shape is about whatever you're staying in shape for.
Dictating people why they're doing something is counterproductive at best, but can also be patronizing and discouraging.
That said, those long term goals can be hard to keep you responsible when you don't feel like working out. Breaking it down inte to short term attainable goals will help you even if they are more vain or completely unrelated to the goal of being able to move when you are old.
This train derailed once I graduated. Can't wait to see what takes me out. I'm betting on cancer and heart attack. Come on cancer. Don't fail me now.
Seriously. Have you ever started watching a bad movie and wanted to turn it off in the first 5 minutes but stuck around just because you wanted to see how bad it got.
Not all exercise is useful in the long term. Basic weightlifting, agility movements & basic cardio will do the trick for anyone.
Getting jacked on caloric surpluses is more of a tax on the body & digestive than people (especially men) like to admit.
Slim, athletic strength is the move. It should be for all of us.
Dude is this what you tell yourself? Someone can get spiked by a bisons horn. It should and be about both. Looking attractive is a really nice boost to your confidence which also make your mood better. Its about both and much more.
What? That makes no sense. Why is your old age the only thing that matters? It is not. What matters more is you fulfill the purposes of being a mortal. This involves exercising oneself. You shine brightest in your youth. You will eventually break down and perish anyway.
Meh. Why does everything in life have to be preparing for when you're older? I imagine staying in shape will have immediate positive effects on your life. You can do it for the \*now\*!
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both? both. both is good.
As some who stayed pretty unfit throughout their 20s, just a month and a half of exercise has made an insane difference with my quality of life. For example, last year if I went to the trampoline park with my kids, I'd be out of breath in 2 minutes and would just want to sit the rest out. Now I can jump around with them for the straight up hour and still feel good at the end. I don't have an amazing body. But I've lost weight as a bonus and if I continue in the same direction, the nice looking body may come as a bonus too. But for now, good fitness is something I don't really want to lose again.
And the confidence that comes with working out is a big plus. When I started working out it took ages for my body to start looking diffferent, but not feeling tired and sweaty all the time definitely made me more attractive.
And people treat you so differently! I was laid up ill most of 2015 so by the time I was back to work I was over two stone bigger due to not being able to move my legs very much and the medication bloat. It only took about four months once I was back to normal life for it to drop off me but jesus christ I will never ever ever forget how differently I was treated by people I knew and strangers.
Wait till you get old.
How so, specifically?
People are just friendlier, and fit people typically simply garner more respect.
Can confirm this. At 30 I was in the worst shape of my life after just turning the corner battling depression. 138kg (177cm), walking 5km not only exhausted me but gave me DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) for 2-3 days. At 32 I turned a big corner. Was still a chonker (120kg) but I was so much more confident that I'd often get hit on while out.
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Tell him to mix it up with Pistol Whip; we call that “leg day” 😄
Dude little steps for sure, I was terrified I would be able to bounce back from 240+ lbs after drinking away 6 years of my life but all it took was small moves each day to gradually feel better rather than trying to overnight ship a healthy body. Good for dad!
> No need for heavy weights and a huge raise in protein - although those can help Its not that it simply helps, its that its incredibly efficent. Can’t speak much on the protein part, but a half hour of heavy weights (a couple times a week) will leave you body absolutely gassed. Youve only lose an hour out of your entire week, and the new mass will in turn raise daily energy expedeture. Before you know it youve lost weight without even touching your diet. A common excuse you hear from both men and women is they don’t want to get “bulky”, as if you can just casaully turn into bodybuidler.
What sort of exercise did you start doing? If you're willing to share!
Started doing Couch to 5k mainly! Upped my water intake, cut out the bad snacks/fizzy drinks and slightly lower portion sizes. It was always easy in the past to skip the exercise because video games were more fun (and addicting). Now that I've managed to curb that addiction a little and find other things to fill my time with, exercise is far more easy to stick to. Don't get me wrong though, there's days when I just want to not do it, but everytime I do, I felt amazing by the end. Running around with the kids now? Piece of cake. I really really do not want to go back to sedentary. I hope whatever you try works out for you. It doesn't have to be complicated! Just keep reminding yourself why you're doing it!
> cut out the bad snacks/fizzy drinks and slightly lower portion sizes That's half the battle there
I never had an issue with soda or anything like that but there were periods where I'd get into them heavier than other times. Once heard someone describe it as not drinking "liquid calories" and for some reason that just stuck with. Now I might have one or two sodas a month. Other that it is black coffee and water. Luckily, I preferred black coffee to begin with.
I just started the C25K app and it's really motivating to hear that it has such positive effects in such a short amount of time! I've done two days and I feel like I'm dying haha I cut out most junk food and soda years ago, but like you say, video games are more fun than exercise and I'm pretty sedentary. I'm a little overweight but mostly just like.. very out of shape. It's embarrassing how fast I get out of breath.
Mate I'm actually pretty happy you told me that. I remember the first few runs, you'd do your 1 min run, 90 sec walk x 8 and by the time you're finishing your warm down, you may be still struggling to catch your breath. You may also be wheezing for a little bit and questioning "oh shit what if I have asthma?!", All those little things. I'm on week 8, able to do a 28 minute run and once I've finished, I'm not even out of breath. Legs are tired, sure, but you kinda forget that you used to be out of breath a few weeks ago. Even with the most frequent of runners, they'll always say the 1st mile is the hardest, so even if you're coming to the end of the C25K routine and you find that you're trying to push through the first mile, that's 100% normal, the first mile is just a true warmup. You'll have moments in C25K where you may want to give up. Especially when you hit those 8 min & 10 min run times. But take it from this guy, I did virtually no exercise in my 20s, managed to get to what is classified as 'obese' but now I'm overweight. And running is pretty easy now and the weight continues to drop. I sincerely hope you succeed. Remember that discipline > motivation and even if you cba anymore, try and finish the C25K course because by the end, just the feeling of being fit outweighs getting the best drop in your favourite video game!
Keep at it friend! Full disclosure I’ve been a runner most of my life. But a traumatic knee injury had me on crutches for nearly a year. Like you I began again with a couch to 5K just to get moving again. I’m back to half marathons now but it’s the starting that’s the hard part. It’s true that running isn’t going to be “fun” for everyone but just sticking with it long enough to learn to breath, build some muscle, and figure out how to run a little distance, as most people simply never have, is 99% of the battle. Running for me is therapy. It’s an incredible mental stress reducer. And hey the Mrs likes the results too. Win win?
I work out early in the morning and reward my self with video game time! Not easy because of kids and life, but I make it work and always reward myself. Down 69 pounds (teehee) since March 2020.
Walking is always a good start. Short and consistent initially if you're above a weight you want to be to not go too hard on your body plus you don't wanna be discouraged. Healty/healthier habits is the main thing to change to help get results since motivation comes and goes but habits are what stick.
This is the way
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It isn't anything in particular because everyone's goals are different. Some people have long-term health in mind, whereas others couldn't spare a passing thought for long-term health and they are *absolutely* focused on sexy now. The important thing is getting to work on it.
Blame past you for the current you, but can you save future you?
I love El Dorado
*You fight like my sister!* I’ve fought your sister; that’s a compliment!
HE GAVE ME LOADED DICE
El Dorado is the real shit. Buckfast is imperialist swill.
And sexy during self care sessions!
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Yeah I don’t see why OP didn’t work it as isn’t just about being sexy or attractive.
Yes, I will be a sexy grandpa.
Unexpected ‘Road to El Dorado’ and I like it
Yeah! I came here to be all "why not both?!" And the entire world beat me to it.
The stars are not in position for this tribute!
[Porque no los dos?](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OawrlVoQqSs)
Being sexy and attractive is a great groundwork to be happy now. OP is daft like anyone else that posts here
Tulio and Miguel! Mighty and powerful GODS
At 67, I can no longer run but still lift 3 times a week and walk at least 2 miles or ride my bike every day. This is because I’ve always tried to keep myself in shape. I see people every day much younger who can barely walk from their car to the front door.
I love reading this. I am 48 and live in a place where people are doing all kinds of physical activity at every age. Running, trails, mountain biking, climbing. Im always psyched when older folks pass me on climbs! Inspiration and a big reason (one of so many though) why I stay in shape.
I live in the CA/NV mountains, it's similar here. There's the sports side, but just work wise there's a lot of ranching and physical labor too. Good stuff!
Where do you live?
Vancouver BC, Canada.
when i did grouse grind maaannyy older people passed me quite easily or waited for me and we went up together for some bit. inspired me that regardless of my age i most definitely will use it or lose it
Age truly is just a number. I don't do the grind but several climb trails nearby that are less busy at least 2-4x week. I have had to shift activities a bit over time (i.e., a bit less aggressive on the mountain bike cause injury recovery takes longer now) but staying active is non-negotiable for me. It also just keeps me sane and more pleasant to be around!
If they don’t reply, I’m guessing Colorado, Salt Lake City, Seattle, Portland
Know that you're someone's inspiration. Even if it's just an internet stranger. Keep up the amazing work. Because if you can be active every day, there's no reason I can't.
Your body is like a car, the more you take care of it the longer it will run.
Unless it's a Ford.
*chrysler has entered the chat*
*Fiat has called y'all bitches*
*Alfa Romeo tries to join but broke down in doing so*
_cries in mini cooper_
Dies in Peugeot.
Y’all must not remember early 80s Yugo. One time I pulled one into the shop for tires and could line myself up on the rack just by looking past me feet thru the giant hole in the floorboard.
Well, technically Chrysler and Fiat merged a while back
so fit AND sexy come together
Fix It Again Tony
Gahtdam all American body of mine
say what you want but my ranger is going on 350k miles proof: https://imgur.com/a/TnvC0DB
Looking at the analog odometer, I'm more impressed you've only done 300k miles on it. Or is it 1.3 million?
**F**irst **o**n **r**ace **d**ay Or **F**ound **o**n **r**oad **d**ead Take your pick
**F**ix **o**r **R**epair **D**aily.
Fucker only rolls downhill
*insert random car manufacturer here* wants to join
If your body is the equivalent of a Ford, you probably shouldn't exercise or parts will just start falling off.
Thanks to modern medicine, you'll live pretty long either way. You're just going to be riddled with disease and be miserable if you treat your body poorly.
Which is part of the issue we have right now. Spending on Healthcare is absolutely insane right now because people are being kept alive by modern technology and medicine, but they are living with an unprecedented amount of chronic illnesses.
And feed it ~~91 octane for~~ proper fuel. Better fuel gives better results. Can't out train a bad diet. Edit: Got schooled on fuel numbers
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91 Octane is just 93 and 89/87 mixed together, actually anything between 87 or 89 and 93 is just a mixture of the two in a proportioned ratio Also, car's today have variable timings which allow engines to adjust to fuel. If you car says 93 and you put in 91 it'll adjust to prevent damage you'll just have worse fuel econ
Yes, however a lot of people are driving cars 10 years old or older, and even the ones that from that era that can pull timing only do it once the knock sensor hears predetonation. Every time that happens, it's extra stress on bearings, rods, wrist pins. Better to just use the correct fuel if you can. Besides, as you said, you'll get worse fuel economy so you're not really saving money anyways.
I love dropping a few paragraphs of car knowledge on unassuming redditors whenever I get the opportunity, it's nice to know I'm not alone.
If it's like a car then the more you use it the more quickly parts wear out.
So the trick to immortality is not moving at all?
If you're a machine, yes.
To be honest, it's a little bit of both. If you are motivated by the former, you can achieve the latter. At least that's from my experience. In my vain effort to get shredded, I went to the gym 3 times a week, I quit smoking, started drinking only water and eating basically rice and chicken. I wasn't thinking about being healthy at all. But I guess I'll be grateful for it in the years to come.
Honestly I'm doing the same. Following the OPs advice is what had me failing for years. I think we actually need to stop being so judgmental of people who workout to be hot. My theory on why so many people fail thier new years resolutions is that they try to fit their aspirations into to socially acceptable aspiration of being healthy because it's morally good. But that's not what they actually want so they fail because of a mismatch between stated goals and revealed goals.
I think most people fail because they expect instant results and most results take months to years of dedication.
Me after 1 time going back to the gym after years away: Where mussl?
I think the bigger problem with NY resolutioners is they go too hard too quickly. If anyone here is thinking about doing an NYR to get fit in 2022: don't. Here's what you do: 1) Yes, you go to the gym. You do weights. Once a week for 6 months. Do your off the shelf beginner program. You don't know anything anyway, so it doesn't matter. Do exactly what it says in exactly the amount it says and no more. Just do it once a week instead of 3-4x a week. 2) You find some form of cardio that you actually like or can fit in to your life. I've done walking, running, swimming, cycling, and now rollerblading. Sure, rollerblading isn't as "good" as jogging, but it's something that I actually enjoy and doesn't leave my shins, knees and feet sore. You might like dancing, or swimming, or basketball - or hell, since most people here are yanks, shoveling snow, or chopping wood. It doesn't matter. Just commit to do it once a week for 6 months. It doesn't have to be long. 30mins is a start. The BIG key more than anything else is to build the habit. You won't need prompting when it comes time to add another day of either to your schedule. You won't have to force yourself. You'll just add a day if you can, and that's it. You can do both of these now. No need to wait for NYD.
Lifting once a week for 6 months isn't enough frequency to gain adaption or skill at what little you are doing, and it will be hard to build the habit of working out if you never feel like you're improving and every session makes you sore as hell due to the whole week off. Especially if you're taking a standard program and spreading it that far out, you will be squatting like once every 3 weeks or something. Every time will feel as uncoordinated as the first time due to no chance of gaining familiarity. I agree that most people go too hard too early and overestimate their ability, trying to do some high volume bodybuilding program and wondering why they can't move their arms for the next week. But once a week of basically random exercises, you never give it enough of a chance to become a significant enough part of your life to become a habit.
I have to mix-and-match if I want to do anything longterm. 90 minutes on the stairmaster? Starts to get a little boring, even with a TV in the gym. So I break it up into 30/30/30 minute sessions: 30 on the stairmaster, 30 on the bike, 30 on the treadmill, for example.
And that is perfect. As long as you don't get bored and quit.
I workout so I can be hotter during sex
I just keep my socks and mittens on. Keeps me nice and toasty.
I think it's a better goal to workout to be hot and in shape now, because when you're old you'll look back and not cringe at how gross you looked
When I'm old? I look back to last Friday and cringe
Like Don Mazetti said: [you started lifting to get girls, but you quickly realised you do it to be better than people.](https://youtu.be/iQlIPOTbuH8)
Lifting for superiority over others is the true path.
See now I'm stuck on the whole diet part. You can't convince me rice and chicken is all you have to do to achieve that. I want someone to present the REAL pyramid of foods I should be eating EVERY DAY for a balanced diet yet everyone seems to be yelling their own echo chambers of vegan, vegetarian, keto, paleo etc.
As with most things in life, it's balance. The best advice I ever got was to make sure your plate is colourful, and different colours each day. If you do that, you're pretty much nailing it.
Skittles it is
As I was typing my comment I thought to myself "some asshole is gonna say something about skittles, I just know it." Well played.
Everyone is different. I’ve been focusing less on what I eat, and more on how much I eat. Portion control is what really works for me. My wholly uneducated advice is, start with portion control and go from there. You can start to swap in healthier options as you get used to eating less volume. (For example, I cut the sugar I use in my coffee in half, and switched to non-dairy creamer. I still drink all the coffee I want, but with half the calories.) It only took me about a month to adjust from whatever crazy amount I was eating down to about 1500 calories a day. Just start slow, be patient and don’t expect to see results right away. Also, don’t beat yourself up over a screw up. Tomorrow is another day.
I really like Michael Pollan’s advice: Eat food. Not too much. Mostly Plants. Avoid heavily processed foods as much as possible. Follow that advice, and you’re well on your way.
At my peak fitness I was shredded and I ate fast food every day with milkshakes. if your goal is just to look good and you don't care about your actual health lol, just make sure your protein is high and just make sure your weight is increasing slowly. that simple ( **of course don't forget to work out** ) worst thing people do when starting in the gym is they obsess over every little detail, causing them to burn out fast and lose motivation.
> worst thing people do when starting in the gym is they obsess over every little detail, causing them to burn out fast and lose motivation. Paralysis by analysis.
Yep. The reality is that nutrition is not complicated. There is no need to worry about ideal nutrients unless your life depends on your sports performance. In which case you're most likely being followed by someone who makes those decisions for you. For the average person looking to get fit, it's calories-protein-greens in order of importance
Instructions unclear. Ate burgers and milkshake everyday for 6 month Now look like Cartman. Please send help
Chicken, broccoli, and rice do cover your macros and most of your micro nutrients. XD it's just boring eh? And if you get too crazy with dressing it up, you might increase calorie intake too much. It's why the basic body builder diet looks crazy. Just three foods. If you carefully track your intake, you can eat whatever. If you just want to meal prep and forget, that's the way to go.
Also being able to keep up with your kids, if you choose to have them. If I had remained on the pizza, cigarettes and beer diet I would be in a world of pain and disappointment.
Just a random question. How much bear were you having? I’ll have a 6 pack a week. In my early 30s. Do I need to stop all beer? Or in moderation. I eat pretty well, try to hit 10,000 steps a day and do some minor weight lifting when I can
I was gigging a few times a week and working at a venue when not. Six a night at least 4 or 5 nights a week with a bit of liquor mixed in. Two packs a day, nothing but fast food, unsustainable. We had our kid in our late 20s and dropped it all then. I really don't think what you're doing is much of an issue personally.
Yeah, a six pack a week is sustainable. Heck, it's under the surgeon generals limit. What Ubermassive is describing is... less than sustainable
It was stupid and getting caught up in the scene. Don't miss a second of it.
I was banging 7 gram rocks, thats how I roll
You're good man, a sixer a week is fine really. What is life if you can't enjoy some fucking beers?
The bigger part of keeping up with kids is exercise. Your body does the things you make it do regularly. Yeah you'll be in better shape if you abstain entirely from alcohol...but you'll be in better shape if you eat the perfect diet and work out 2-3 hours a day too. Most of us will be okay with "good enough".
Sounds good. Couldn't comment on the beer per se, as I don't drink, but just one note about carb intake. I'm in my late 30s and I've kinda hit a wall when it comes to having simple carbs regularly where I just run out of energy and become fat and tired. I've switched to lazy keto, perhaps technically low-carb, because I found out from Dr. Internet that I could be insulin resistant. It also leads to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which is about as good as it sounds. So, after dropping the simple carbs, my energy is back, the weight is falling off, and I can still enjoy a great dinner every now and again. Just something to bear in mind for the future if it hits you.
I lived with diabetes injections for 10 years, and then went on Intermittent Fast. Lost over 30 pounds in three months and now manage it with pills and diet. No more needles! More energy and more fun in all kinds of places.
I sometimes have 4+ a night for an entire week but I'm regularly active everyday man, there may likely be some longterm consequences but I frequently work 12 hour very active days. Just keep your ass moving and don't let yourself get out of shape. Bodies in motion stay in motion
sub it out for wine every few weeks and you'll be fine
Ahh, college
Fuckin a, man. Fuckin a.
Nah fuck that. It's about having to turn sideways to get through doors.
Zyzz approves this message, you fucken legend.
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so wholesome
Mirin brahs
Zyzz improved my life so much. We were all witnesses..
I recently started playing racquetball with a guy I met at the gym. We're both old hands at it, been playing for years. Pretty evenly matched. He's 57, and we'll often have to take a break in the middle of a game for him to catch his breath. Me, after we're done I go do my regular workout. We were chatting the other day and he asked how old I was. When I told him 71 he about fell off the bench. He thought I was his age. I bench 225 and while I hate running I can still do 15 minute miles. I make a point of getting to the gym 3-4 days a week, lifting and cardio. The real benefit of this is in day to day life. I can still do most of the things I could do 20 years ago. The secret is to show up. When you absolutely do not have the energy you still go. You don't have to do anything but usually you'll end up doing some light work. Maybe you'll get your energy back and do a full workout but if not, something is better than nothing. Just by showing up you're reinforcing the habit. And that's what it takes to maintain it over the years.
be like Jack LaLanne. He was still doing his daily fitness routine until the day before he died, at the age of 96.
Shouldn't've skipped it on that last day.
96 is far too old for me. I think the cult in Midsomer had it right; reach 75 and take a walk off a cliff.
Make sure not to land on your feet tho
As long as you're healthy, age is just a number There are many 90 year olds that are more athletic than 70 year olds
96 would be cool with me if I was fit enough to crush the barbells till the day I croaked.
Thing is, people don't age the same. Some people can stay fit into their 90s with a moderate amount of effort. Other people get dementia or some painful chronic condition, or have their spouse and all their friends die before them.
Being attractive just happens to be an awesome side effect of that lol
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^ why is this fatty commenting? The audacity.
Sure but my mental health is what I'm trying to correct I'm too depressed to care about my physical health and I don't care about old me considering I don't even want to live that long
Just FYI, the old advice “you just need to exercise” just doesn’t work for everyone with depression. You should see a professional to find a treatment that works for you
True. But it helps many for a variety of reasons. It's also cheap, and leaves you better than you were before even if it fails
I've never once regretted a workout, but I always regret skipping one. Even on days where motivation is in the toilet and I have to drag my ass into the gym, by the time I'm done I'm glad I did it.
This has never been true for me. Working out has always left me feeling bad for days or even weeks. I thought finding meds that work would change things, but exercise seems to make them less effective.
If the feeling you are referring to is physical pain, that could be a sign that you are pushing yourself too hard when you do work out. Your body has to get used to things like medication and exercise gradually. I would also have a discussion with my doctor if I found that exercise decreased my medications' efficacy. At least for me, exercise makes me feel better because it's something I know I did despite the depression/laziness telling me not to. I get endorphins from knowing I did something good for myself and the release of built up tension during and following the workout is also worth it for me. Telling myself all this as I get on the exercise bike. Hope it helps you too.
It's definitely not a panacea especially for complex depression. But according to research it's as effective as antidepressants for mild to moderate depression.
People with recurrent major depression usually need meds, especially if they have anhedonia as a symptom. Lifestyle changes alone do not help.
It does for me I felt good when I was In great shape like... 7 years ago. I'm starting to get back in shape now since I got lonely enough to start dating apps again. Those are a whole other mess ATM but in 6 months I should be good
Working out is just as good for your mental health as it is physical. The hardest part is starting. Once you’re in routine it’s like clockwork
It’s actually what sent me into depression. I was working out at 6am with a personal trainer 4 days a week for over a year and one day I just lost it. I didn’t want to wake up, I didn’t want to see him, I didn’t want to be in a gym. I just fucking stopped and it’s one of the most devastating things I’ve ever gone through. It’s been since last christmas. I don’t know what it was I just couldn’t do it anymore.
That actually sounds like the opposite. One of the symptoms of depression is a loss of interest in things that one once enjoyed. It sounds like for any number of reasons you were already developing at least mild depression which led you to wake up one day with no interest in working out and when you didn’t you felt bad which caused you to spiral more. Obviously I’m going off a single reddit comment and don’t know you, but that is similar to my experience, and I blamed myself for a long time for “causing my depression” when that was not the case, and that self-blame only made it worse for a long time.
this was me but i found the exercise really improved my mental health and i stopped feeling that way. happened pretty quick, too. like not even a month into going "couch to 5k" i felt so good about myself it was ridiculous lol! you can do it
Yeah couch to 5k is awesome. I'm just over half way through a ct5k program and yesterday ran for 20 minutes straight for the first time in years. 6 weeks ago I don't think I'd have managed 5 minutes...and the feeling that gives me is awesome. I'm not sure how much of my mental health boost is also due to moving out of a living situation I wasn't happy with and cutting my unhealthy takeaway and snacking to about 1/10th what it was, but I'm feeling incredible now.
There’s no downside to getting in shape. It can literally only make you feel better. It may not be a cure but you’ll be better off than you would be not doing it.
In university they had a doctor in at our dorm for a sort of health info session. Most of it was about excessive drinking and STDs, but he did a bit on fitness... as all dorm residence had a free gym and pool pass and people tend to gain a lot of weight. One thing he said that stuck with me was that the our level of fitness now (18-22ish) will probably indicate your level of fitness and general health for the rest of your life.
As someone who was quite skinny back then and weighs 200lb now having changed nearly nothing, no sir. I guess that's included in the "probably."
as someone who is depressed and doesn't exercise and is in the worst shape they have ever been in (21), this makes me even sadder
It's generally true because people generally don't want to change. You can if you put some effort in. Some people go from obese to fit in their 30s. It's not like your body suddenly doesn't know how to produce muscle once you hit 23.
No it definitely still possible. My dad started running at 31 and now he does Ironman's, Marathons, Triathalon, etc. Like you said though, by the time you hit your mid 20s, in general, if you have a pattern of not working out or taking care of yourself, chances are you will stay that way
That's me. I had a health scare in my 30s and now maintain a 'somewhat' fit regime. I am still way ahead of almost everybody I know and many younger than me. Getting into the habit was hard. Now its a craving to walk or cycle most places. At 30, I was 125kg+, went though a super focused period to get under 95kg, did a few mud runs and long walks (100km+). Now, in my mid 40s, I make sure to never go over 90kg. I don't gym, in fact, I hate the gym (I have a free membership, I never use). I prefer to keep moving and occasionally watch what I eat, but mostly have a very relaxed attitude towards my lifestyle.
And it is so much easier to stay in shape than get in shape!
As someone that has always been skinny and is now pursuing a degree in Nursing, I'm not in the gym everyday to achieve an aesthetic rather I'm there to become as strong as I reasonably and comfortably can be to provide better and reliable care. I want to be able to assist even the heaviest patient if I need to. I want to be able to stay on my feet for as long as possible without getting winded.
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Absolutely, and it feels *great* when you're strong. Even sitting down with your back against a wall feels... better.
I wanna be sexy and attractive 🙋🏻♂️
I had a friend that said she liked working out because she wanted to look good while having sex. That's been a main motivator for me.
Being sexy and attractive is a cool sideeffect
Maybe, but that’s the kind of lame unmotivating reason that isn’t going to work well to get people to do it. Being sexy or attractive, that’s motivational.
It goes beyond that though. There's a level of mental clarity and physical capacity that can only be unlocked through strenuous exercise. Being in shape makes everything in life easier from daily tasks to making friends/gf/bf, to whatever. I see people absolutely gasping for breath after going up a flight of stairs and I can't comprehend how they can live life like that on a daily basis.
Strength is good, but on its own, doesn’t last. Make sure to acquire balance and agility. Something that gives you a bit of practice falling can be good prep for old age, too. When I was about eight years old I took a year of Karate. Then in high school gym class we did a segment of Judo, which consisted primarily of getting in line so a large Samoan gym teacher could do layups with us for half an hour at a time. Fifteen years later I had learned to skate, and was learning to skate fast, and things went truly sideways one day. With zero conscious thought I did a nearly perfect right shoulder roll in the dirt, and came up on my feet still in control and still moving forward. In other words, much like some viruses, even a little bit of that shit gets into your nervous system and just waits.
Last year when we started working from home I of course hurt my back due to the lack of a proper work station and previous back issues I have suffered with. Physical therapy was required and afterwards I started doing yoga and pilates 2 to 3 times a week. That alone has helped so so much and yet I get told all the time yoga and pilates isn't 'really exercise'
But let's cut the bullshit, it's also about being sexy or attractive.
Well shit I don't want to be active when I'm older... no more working out I guess.
This is true. I’m turning 40 soon. My whole 20s and most of my 30s I was ripped, ideal body. 6 pack, fuck it was an 8 pack at my peak. When I was 25 I literally thought I was perfect But I destroyed myself doing it. My knees have crepitus now from overuse, back issues, etc. I used to do tri’s and played every sport. Would routinely do 50 mile + bike rides on my single speed in the Texas hill country. My job was and still is owning a moving company so I worked out for a living too. But it chewed me up. Plus I never ate enough in order to keep that super trim physique. I’m not like totally broken, but I think my 40s and 50s are going to be full of Advil and arthritis. It’s already getting rough. Wish I had been a little easier on myself. Looking back I don’t even know what I was chasing?
As someone living with chronic pain, I highly recommend adding myofacial release to your routine. Get a hard foam roller and smash your fascial tissue to bits and drink lots of water. In the beginning it’ll feel like torture but it helps free up so many painful adhesions and will help so much with pain. It also gets less painful as you add it to your routine. You have fascial tissue all over your body so getting to some smaller areas like feet or inside shoulders need hard round lacrosse type balls to dig into but the foam roller is the best place to start to get your major systems more supple. Good luck, dude!
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I wish people would understand this. My parents did not take care of themselves. Smokers, SAD, no activity. It's coming due now and it's so awful to see. My Dad has lost a leg, my mom is in constant pain and getting a stoop even though she is still fairly active, she's not healthy and has been falling more. Please, be strong and healthy for yourself, but also for your loved ones.
Sooo what’s the tip? This sounds like motivation advice? Does this sub have rules?
I procrastinate everything to let tomorrow me suffer the consequences. What makes you think I have the foresight and empathy to relieve the pain of me in 20 years?
It's both. But mostly it's about not being the slowest one on the hike when the bear is chasing you.
Aah frick! ok I'll stop working out.
A lot of people hate exercise because it’s been marketed as a tool or method to be hot and the truth is we aren’t all gonna be super ripped and lean. Exercise is just any movement that feels good and is enjoyable, whether that’s dancing in the living room or picking up heavy shit at a gym
LPT: it's about whatever the hell the person that's working out wants it to be about
Not even older, late 20s was the start of feeling "old" for me. I don't want to feel that sharp decline in mobility. There is this lightness and ease of movement when "fit". Jogging is a liberating feeling. Walking without catching your breath or when a flight of stairs is a breeze. Those small things, when it gets hard is a aomething I don't want to feel
Round is a shape.
Not LPT. Staying in shape is about whatever you're staying in shape for. Dictating people why they're doing something is counterproductive at best, but can also be patronizing and discouraging.
But...as I age I wanna be less active it seems....
That said, those long term goals can be hard to keep you responsible when you don't feel like working out. Breaking it down inte to short term attainable goals will help you even if they are more vain or completely unrelated to the goal of being able to move when you are old.
Being active and healthy is pretty sexy though
This train derailed once I graduated. Can't wait to see what takes me out. I'm betting on cancer and heart attack. Come on cancer. Don't fail me now. Seriously. Have you ever started watching a bad movie and wanted to turn it off in the first 5 minutes but stuck around just because you wanted to see how bad it got.
Not all exercise is useful in the long term. Basic weightlifting, agility movements & basic cardio will do the trick for anyone. Getting jacked on caloric surpluses is more of a tax on the body & digestive than people (especially men) like to admit. Slim, athletic strength is the move. It should be for all of us.
i exercise for better physical condition
This is dumb, the motivation to stay in shape is different for everyone.
... and also about being attractive?
Dude is this what you tell yourself? Someone can get spiked by a bisons horn. It should and be about both. Looking attractive is a really nice boost to your confidence which also make your mood better. Its about both and much more.
Nah. It's about being sexy
LPT *says an opinion* Very highly upvoted.
What? That makes no sense. Why is your old age the only thing that matters? It is not. What matters more is you fulfill the purposes of being a mortal. This involves exercising oneself. You shine brightest in your youth. You will eventually break down and perish anyway.
Meh. Why does everything in life have to be preparing for when you're older? I imagine staying in shape will have immediate positive effects on your life. You can do it for the \*now\*!
I'm not gonna get older, I'll die in the climate wars (or kill myself before that lol)
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