January 13: A Workout Plan

Almost two weeks into the new year and I just began my fitness regiment for a healthier new me. Sure, like everyone, I was tempted by those New Year's Day ads that basically preached how I need to get in shape this year and, of course, offered me everything I need to do so...for a price. I joke, but the truth is my wife and I did commit to a healthier 2010 early on, going out on New Year's Eve and investing in a NordicTrack A2750 treadmill. The theory here is that, since we decided to quit LifeTime fitness back in November due to irreconcilable differences, the purchase of a treadmill will enable both of us to strengthen our hearts, minds, bodies and soul without even leaving the house; although, I still have to make the trek up a dozen stairs to accomplish that feat. Of course, this will be a new thing for me, as I rarely shuffled my lazy butt to the health club when I was a member. So, why not save the $110 monthly membership fee and work out in the comforts of our own home? Our new family member arrived on 1/13, and after the delivery guys sprained a knee, threw out a back and dislocated a shoulder lifting the darn thing up the stairs, they had it all set up and ready to roll. As the evening began, my wife relinquished to me the honors of christening this fitness beauty with the first run. It felt good to, well, just move my body in way other than walking or bending to sit and lift the remote at the same time. That is until the sharp pains in my left shoulder blade begin telling me it wasn't such a good idea. I guess starting out at Speed 5 with a sprint wasn't one of my smartest decisions. But, after slowing the pace and alternating between walk and jog (more of a trot, if you will), I eventually completed my first exercise session of 2010 - a whopping 15 minutes covering a span of 3/4 of a mile. Whoo! Hey, I was excited about it. I admit, the victory jog I took around the house afterwards while humming the Michigan fight song was a little excessive, but we all react differently following major accomplishments. The best thing is, I'm now motivated and ready to set up a regular fitness routine...that is, once the muscles in my hips, calves and thighs stop hurting.