How much is too much?

[Dixie Cups]

On Saturday, I started working out daily again for the first time in almost a year! 30 minutes of walking on the treadmill (about 2 miles) & around 25 minutes of aerobics. I can already see/feel results. But...


Today, my back is killing me! I've been walking around hunched over all day at work. Ugh!


So, my question is...how much is too much when you're just getting back into the swing of working out? I'm thinking I should take at least a day off, because (obviously) I don't want to end up at the chiropractor.

[meena-beena]

Re: How much is too much?

I have over 100 pounds to lose and I went for a physical before starting the Atkins plan, as Dr. Atkins recommends if you have a significant amount to drop.

Exercise was a topic we covered and for my age and weight, she recommended 15 minutes of vigorous exercise 7 days a week. Actually she said any exercise that gets my heartrate going.

I've been doing simple stretching exercises, then jumping around like crazy with my kids for 15 minutes (I set the oven timer), then more stretching and then some ab work (since I'm enrolled in the abs challenge). So far, so good.

[BeccaBoo]

Re: How much is too much?

If your back is hurting, take a day off for rest and healing and then get back into it, gently.

Make sure you have GOOD athletic shoes that are supportive and can absorb impact. This is SOSOSOSO important when you are overweight and walking puts a lot of pressure on your knees and back. They are expensive but SO worth it. When my budget was tighter, I would choose a size/style in the store, then buy them on eBay at a big discount.

Also, pay close attention to your posture and notice if you are hunched over while you are walking - it's way better to walk slow with good posture and slowly build speed, than to go to your max with bad posture. You also said you are doing aerobics, perhaps you need to modify your moves so there is less impact until you are stronger and leaner.

Have faith that as long as you take care of your body, it WILL get better. Every single time I go to the gym I remember how BAD everything used to HURT and I wanted to CRY in yoga class because it hurt just to bend over, much less try to touch my shins - and now I want to cry because everything FEELS SO GOOD and I'm so proud of myself for sticking it out. You'll get there!

Hugs,
Becca