fitness update

So much has changed with regard to the way I have been training that I decided I was due to write another fitness update.  Here are some developments.

Mobility exercises
In my last post, I mentioned that I was trying to make these a priority.  I’m pleased to say that in the past six weeks, I have been doing the exercises for my shoulder and neck that my trainer Alice prescribed for me twice a day, once in the morning with my workout at the gym and once in the evening at home using the band I purchased from Kmart.  In this short time, I have already noticed a huge difference.  In the morning, I used to wake up feeling stiff and sore but since I have been doing my exercises twice a day, this is no longer the case and I generally feel much looser in the neck and left shoulder.  I am excited about the possibility that in the long term, they may help to prevent injuries. 

Running
Given my focus on rehab and mobility work, I have cut running from my training programme due to the impact it has on my neck and shoulder.  After I completed a 10k race at Sri Chinmoy a few months ago, my shoulder started hurting after the race and I had to go back to the physio.  It was like being back to square one all over again!  After discussing the matter with my trainer Alice, we agreed that my cardio would focus on other things such as walking and using the cardio machines at the gym.  However, I have still been able to compete in the Sri Chinmoy races during winter, except I switched to the 5k option in light of my injuries.  As a die hard 10k runner, it was very difficult for me to do this (as well as eliminate running from my training) but I had to focus on the bigger picture.  The last thing I want is my injuries preventing me from gardening, which is my world!  My gym friend and fitness instructor Maureen also competes in the 5k race due to her own injuries and has been an excellent role model for me.

Meal replacement shakes
I have basically weaned myself off these and have returned to eating proper meals.  I just love sitting at the table and having dinner with mum, which is something I missed when I used to have a shake instead of eating dinner.

Weight loss
I have continued to lose weight, albeit at a slower pace to my weight loss journey in 2018.  I think part of the reason is because I’m doing much lower intensity cardio due to my injuries.  But it’s important that I maintain perspective and take a holistic view of my body.  There’s no point constantly getting injured and having to go to the physio, as it interrupts my training and more importantly, my gardening activity.
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Walking
I haven’t been doing as much walking outside due to it being very cold in July, but with August around the corner I’m hoping this will change and I’ll be more active outdoors.  I used to do my walks around the neighbourhood in the late afternoons, after finishing all my work in the garden.  It helped me increase the number of steps I take every day and reach my target of 10k steps (as directed by the World Health Organisation)