You Can’t Teach An Old Dog New Tricks Or Can You?

[JulieRains]

Yes, I am referring to myself although I have never thought of myself as an old dog. As each year comes and goes faster than the one before, I am finding myself thinking about health more often. After careful thought to question I say “YES “, you can teach an old dog new tricks (or habits). Allow me to explain:

If you are like me and thinking of trying to get healthier seems a bit overwhelming. For one thing, where on earth do I begin? Do I start exercising like crazy and counting calories, which seems like a full time job. Well, I realized I am not alone and honestly what a relief that is! Many of us seem overwhelmed. Just look at everything around us from commercials to the internet, we are being pulled in so many directions. I have to say I am luckier than the average person, why? Glad you asked. When I first met husband, boyfriend back then “in high school”, he was obsessed with working out on a regular basis. I thought he was totally crazy and we use to argue about it all the time. We couldn’t do anything until he finished his workout for the day. I remember thinking what a dork! I am probably showing age now, does anyone say dork anymore?

After we got married and had two adorable kiddos husband’s habits started rubbing off on our kids. Was I the only sane person in this family who didn’t care about working out? Our son and daughter are now grown-ups and still have his nasty habit! I am finally starting to realize I have been more rebellious than our children. whole family is in great shape and seems so happy about it. I can’t believe it’s taken me three decades to realize all the benefits of being healthy. Thank you God for teaching me new habits!!

Here are a few healthy habits I added to everyday routine that helps me stay on track:

• I started doing treadmill “again” four times a week with a 10 minute weight workout. You could break this up, but I would rather take an extra 10 minutes to get it over with so I don’t talk myself out of it later. After all, I am still a work in progress. Surprisingly it’s become easier and legs are starting to look more in shape.

• I also started eating more and luckily it’s one of favorite things to do! I have breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a snack in between. Have fruit, Greek yogurt or even smoothies which are favorite to snack on. This allows you to keep up your metabolism.
• Watch your intake on carbohydrates and read the label before you buy it. Your snack may be low in calories, but high in carbs which isn’t good. Avoid fast food and think ahead so you can pack a healthy lunch.

• Decrease your portions at the table. If you’re like me I use to pile it on. By cutting your food portion to 10% to 20% less will make a difference.

• Drink plenty of water can help you not eat so much during meal time. Drink a glass of water 30 minutes before your meals and green tea during your meals. Don’t be surprised if you start shedding a few pounds and gaining more energy. I finally fit in to this dorky family and I love it!

Next time you think about getting fit or trying to take steps for becoming healthier just think of baby step. You can do this! Just don’t take as long as I did and believe in yourself and know you are worth it! If I can do it at age 48 so can you.

[Boss Man]

Good job Julie, be proud of that because you've earned it .

Have you incorporated any form of weight lifting into your weekly regime at all?

[atkhorses]

Julie,
Ha, I just read your post! Very close to situation sans the husband working out!! 2 of kids do work out, one is reluctant (has too much of DNA!!) Although, I have become a health nut and am finding myself putting off other stuff so I can exercise. I like to stay regimented....yes, I'm thinking 49 is hitting me!

I'm going to lose 20 pounds AND your advice will keep me motivated. I have been drinking lots of water and am now eager to get those weights involved!! Keep up the Awesome work

[JulieRains]

Thanks everyone and I'm glad to hear from others that are on the same journey as I am. I am using body weight in some exercises and weights in others along with cardio. I've read that abs are made in the kitchen and not the gym, so I try to watch what I eat and make sure that it's healthy.