Habit Forming

I think I've managed to finally settle into an exercise routine that works for me. I've been going to the gym pretty regularly for the past four months. I still have yet to lose any weight, but the bigger victory here is that I haven't gained any weight. And that I can knock out twenty push-ups like it's nothing.

My whole schedule is anchored by my weekly session with a trainer, who is worth every penny. He routinely kicks my ass, and knowing that I'm accountable to him helps me get to the gym even on days when I don't feel like it. Aside from that I usually go and lift weights at least once a week. Twice if I'm feeling especially motivated. And I do cardio 2-3 times a week.

Intervals have been a complete revelation for my cardio workouts. They keep my heart rate at a more reasonable level so that I can get a full workout in without feeling like I'm going to die. Now that the weather's cooling down, I've been looking forward to running outside rather than on the treadmill. I've gone back to the very first week of the C25K program and have no real intention of moving beyond that until it starts to feel easy.

Strangely, the thing that has made it easiest for me to stay on track has very little to do with working out. On the days when I go to the gym after work, I completely miss rush hour. I get to ride a mostly empty train home, and I actually end up saving quite a bit of money on my commute by not traveling at peak hours.

I've also noticed some slow, subtle shifts in my diet. Regular exercise has given me more energy, which has made me more willing to cook. Especially during the week. So I'm starting to eat more veggies and less processed food, which is at least a step in the right direction. I can't handle huge changes in diet, because I know I'll eventually revert right back to my old ways. I think this will be more sustainable and will ultimately lead to an overall healthier lifestyle. Even if it ends up taking a while.

This has basically just been an update to say that I'm still on track. That track may be moving more slowly than I initially hoped, but at least I'm moving in the right direction. The results aren't really visible yet, but they're there. I'm trying hard to keep that in mind.