'I AM GAINING MUSCLES'
May was a better month because I was no longer new to eating correct food types and to exercising. The first two weeks were hectic because I had end of semester exams and work-related activities. So, for the first 10 days, I did not exercise much but on May 11, I joined a gym. I decided to do more workouts before the summer semester starts. I developed a routine. I exercised at the gym, followed my diet, suffered from knee aches but felt happy with some changes. My first couple of days at the gym were challenging. I had to get used to working out for an hour without stopping but I coped. Exercising at the gym is more structured and the instructor had to constantly remind me to maintain the correct posture because I could hurt myself if the exercises are not done properly. Having the correct posture for exercise is also important for an effective workout. Attending gym classes have helped me to be more consistent with my exercise programme and I workout for longer periods.
OLD HABITS DIE HARD, BUT DETERMINATION WINS OUT
I still walk in the mornings, when I get up early. I have mostly kept to my diet but I must admit that my taste buds experienced withdrawal symptoms so I had four teaspoons of ice cream and a slice of cake (not on the same day). I have increased my intake of raw vegetables without dressing and kept up my fruit diet. I now try to eat fruit at 10:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. and to eat breakfast and lunch. I am also proud that I have for the most part replaced juice with water. I now feel lighter after meals and I am now not so sleepy after lunch.
OPTIMISTIC
However, I have been having aches in my knee since I began walking and I am still experiencing pain at times, so I work mostly for an hour and a half at the gym for four days per week. When I feel my knees getting weak, I try low impact. My other problem spot is my lower abdomen, it has not changed and while I feel I have gained some muscles in that area it seems just the same. I am disappointed with my stomach bulge that refuses to budge. My upper arms still jiggle a bit but with time, I am sure that too will go. I see changes in my thighs and found that my very old pair of jeans now fit. In addition, my weight has not changed but my clothes feel a bit loose so I am not too worried. I am gaining muscles.
PUBLIC INSPIRED
When I first entered the programme, I thought only family and friends would be interested. However, I have met a lot of persons who have read the articles and are interested in my diet and exercise programmes. I now feel I have to make progress because so many eyes are on me. I hope persons will be encouraged by the positives of exercising and healthy eating habits.
