Today, after trying on a 2XL ThinkGeek babydoll shirt and being thrilled and in disbelief at the fact that it fit, I was then horrified by my arms. Can we say bingo flaps? So I threw my hair in a ponytail, cleared out the kids, animals and toys from the living room, and set up the Kettleworx workout program that I’ve had sitting in the bedroom since the fall (I tried it once, briefly, but I only followed along with the sample exercises). I have a 5 lb. kettlebell, and I’m starting with the six week Resistance program. The routine is simple enough — 20 minutes per day, three days a week. I did the first session today, and oh my god, I am so out of shape it isn’t even funny. I was slightly winded from the FREAKING WARM UP, people. But I stuck out the full 20 minute workout, and by the end I was sweating, and my muscles felt like jiggly rubber. They’re still slightly rubbery, and I have a feeling I’m going to wake up tomorrow and feel like I can’t get out of bed.
But I need to do this. And so I will do this. I’m going to get a kettlebell for Dan (probably the 10 lb. or 15 lb. one, since he’s a guy (duh) and stronger, and would probably benefit from a heavier weight), and we’re going to sweat it out together. I need to strengthen my muscles and tone up, and he could benefit from some toning as well.
So, three times a week, 20 minutes per day. Not a big deal. I’m going to do the workouts on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, probably in the morning when the kids are at school, or later in the afternoon when they’re in their rooms for quiet time. Wish me luck! 
I’m still sore from Monday’s walk in the snow (4.5 mile). I’m starting my work outs on Monday though
I have a 30 minute stay-ball workout and going to start by doing 10 minutes on the elliptical right after. It’s sad I have to start with TEN minutes but between being out of shape and the allergies+asthma factor I’d better start slow as opposed to ending up in the hospital right?
Workouts have turned some people ” upside-down ” and I have seen those people in before and after cases so I do believe that with good workout, you can do it.
I use a 15 lb one, and Bryan doesn’t lift weights, but he was complaining that was too light for him. Unless he’s super weak, I’d start him on 15 lb or even 20.
Thats awesome you’re taking the initiative good luck! Working out is hard to do… but now I am addicted. I get depressed if I don’t do it enough.
That is excellent Jenn, keep going!!!!!!!!!! I love to workout now that I’m so set on a routine
Hi Jenn!
I’m a long time reader of your blog who stops by from time to time, I find your posts well written, captivating and easy to relate to. However I just wanted to say that you are looking absolutely fabulous!!! Wow! Well done with your weight loss. I’m a big girl myself you are truly an inspiration to me. Keep up the great work
Sarah
I have a TBL workout DVD – as soon as my sleeping pattern gets into a more normal one, I want to start doing it in the mornings after bus pick-up. But, I may wait until noon and force Richard to do it with me LOL
I know what you mean Jenn. I hate my arms. Total bingo flaps! I checked out that Kettleworx site and I really like the look of that exercise. I might have to get me one of those packages. Keep going with the weight loss. You look fantastic!
I cannot wish you enough luck with that! I know how hard it is to start working out when you are so, insanely out of shape. Me and the partner went out LAST SUMMER to play basketball, it happens once a year or so when I give in to him wanting some guy friends around and pretend to be one for him, and just from chasing the ball everywhere, because there was no way I was getting it in that basket, I wanted to die. I can barely get up my steps a few times in a row without becoming winded. But then again, that’s what you get when you’re a smoker, as well.
GOOD LUCK!!!
Good luck! I don’t even have the motivation to BEGIN working out.
Good luck with it! It will be extremely difficult at the start but after a while it will become a like natural and you’ll just naturally do it (like washing, eating etc) I tried exercise videos, home routines before, I usually give up after two day because other things at home always distracts me from doing it. It might help to do it in the morning before you start doing other things so you’re not distracted. I use to attend the gym every morning and I find it much easier to go in the morning than in the afternoon. I always find that when I get down to doing something then I can’t be bothered anymore.
You go girl!
Good luck! You look great!!
I’d get Dan at LEAST the 20 pounder. I use a 20 pound bell at the gym for swing squats and stuff.
Just keep reminding yourself that all the muscle pain = muscle growth = fat eating calories being burned. I’m at the point now where I actually look forward to that feeling. If part of my body isn’t hurting it’s just incentive to push THAT MUCH HARDER. Although, not as much paid as you are in, but soreness = kinda addicting.
Have I told you lately how incredibly proud of you I am? I made the determination last week, after the loss of a friend, that I was going to start taking better care of myself from here on out. Now I just need to get my hands on videos or games for our Wii fit to do just that!