Okay That's It...I Definitely Have To Get Off My Butt More And ....
By pyewacket
@pyewacket (43903)
United States
July 10, 2009 8:05pm CST
......Exercise. 
Many of my friends here are familiar with what I had gone through with my mother while she was alive as she created a...uh, "problem"--that is an over-population of cat problem...while she created it, she never helped out with any cleaning chores, so I was stuck with it. I grumbled, complained, gripped, b!tched about it....BUT..
The irony that even though I hated the idiotic stupid cleaning routine I did everyday to minimize pet odor, it kept me active...like getting a full aerobic workout everyday...My muscles were like steel, my body rather flexible. Well my mother is gone (will be three years Aug. 27th that she died)---and I only have my two highly pampered kittes, Pyewacket and Kissy. Now that means I don't have to clean as much...yes, I do still clean, but instead of cleaning the floor for instance everyday like I used to, I only clean once a week. I do bits and pieces of cleaning everyday, but nowhere near the same the way I used to have to.
Anyway, so now for the past three years or so I spend a lot of time sitting on my butt in front of the computer which means of course, I'm not "exercising" and it IS having an affect on me...I'm realizing I've lost a lot of muscle tone. I'm by no means overweight, but rather thin, but my muscle tone just isn't the way it had been, so it got me thinking...I really need to get back into some kind of exercise routine. I used to do a yoga regiment everyday that kept me limber and flexible, and yes, stronger...In fact, for a few days now, I've already started a bit..not much, since with years of neglect and NOT doing yoga I sure as hell not as limber as I used to be, but that is one of the beauties of yoga is that one can start slow..no frantic pumping iron, aerobic crazies, huffing and puffing.
Okay folks...confess...are you as physically strong as you used to be? Or do you sit on your butt too long in front of the computer and have noticed your muscle tone to the point of almost atrophy has occurred? Do you do any kind of exercise? If so what works for you (and NO don't suggest jogging--definitely not for me)
Many of my friends here are familiar with what I had gone through with my mother while she was alive as she created a...uh, "problem"--that is an over-population of cat problem...while she created it, she never helped out with any cleaning chores, so I was stuck with it. I grumbled, complained, gripped, b!tched about it....BUT..
The irony that even though I hated the idiotic stupid cleaning routine I did everyday to minimize pet odor, it kept me active...like getting a full aerobic workout everyday...My muscles were like steel, my body rather flexible. Well my mother is gone (will be three years Aug. 27th that she died)---and I only have my two highly pampered kittes, Pyewacket and Kissy. Now that means I don't have to clean as much...yes, I do still clean, but instead of cleaning the floor for instance everyday like I used to, I only clean once a week. I do bits and pieces of cleaning everyday, but nowhere near the same the way I used to have to.
Anyway, so now for the past three years or so I spend a lot of time sitting on my butt in front of the computer which means of course, I'm not "exercising" and it IS having an affect on me...I'm realizing I've lost a lot of muscle tone. I'm by no means overweight, but rather thin, but my muscle tone just isn't the way it had been, so it got me thinking...I really need to get back into some kind of exercise routine. I used to do a yoga regiment everyday that kept me limber and flexible, and yes, stronger...In fact, for a few days now, I've already started a bit..not much, since with years of neglect and NOT doing yoga I sure as hell not as limber as I used to be, but that is one of the beauties of yoga is that one can start slow..no frantic pumping iron, aerobic crazies, huffing and puffing.
Okay folks...confess...are you as physically strong as you used to be? Or do you sit on your butt too long in front of the computer and have noticed your muscle tone to the point of almost atrophy has occurred? Do you do any kind of exercise? If so what works for you (and NO don't suggest jogging--definitely not for me)12 people like this
35 responses
@polachicago (18716)
• United States
11 Jul 09
My workout last days is to take a bike for 1/2 hour or walk my dogs and this is about it. I am skinny and my muscles are not as used to be. My arms muscles need to build up. I think I may start yoga again if I am able to change my working schedule....
..so far I am working 6 days a week and I am cleaning my house on every Sunday....
..so far I am working 6 days a week and I am cleaning my house on every Sunday....2 people like this
@polachicago (18716)
• United States
11 Jul 09
I have tons of videos on my tiny ipod screen...
I can not see without my glasses...
I can not see without my glasses...2 people like this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
11 Jul 09
Sounds like you're like me...my muscle tone is shot to heck as I just plain aren't exercising or as active as I used to be--I've just discovered a whole bunch of youtube videos on yoga...mmmm...might give them a go
1 person likes this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
11 Jul 09
Fogged eyed too? I would need my glasses too to see a video since I'm near sighted
1 person likes this
@mysdianait (66009)
• Italy
11 Jul 09
Well I've got nimble fingers - does that count? 
As for the rest 
I have definately noticed a difference. A whole series of things changed my complete life-style almost 5 years ago. Up until then I had been working in supermarkets for over 20 years and the last 10 were in fruit and vegetable departments. I remember my son was worried that his mom would have to carry on lifting crates of vegetables right up until pension age but I always pointed out that I had the gym included in the price whereas those that worked in banks had to pay and go in their own time after work. How right I was. The firm I worked for closed down almost 5 years ago and since then I have been doing many differnt jobs - but all with my rear in a chair 
Now it shows too.
As for the rest
I have definately noticed a difference. A whole series of things changed my complete life-style almost 5 years ago. Up until then I had been working in supermarkets for over 20 years and the last 10 were in fruit and vegetable departments. I remember my son was worried that his mom would have to carry on lifting crates of vegetables right up until pension age but I always pointed out that I had the gym included in the price whereas those that worked in banks had to pay and go in their own time after work. How right I was. The firm I worked for closed down almost 5 years ago and since then I have been doing many differnt jobs - but all with my rear in a chair Now it shows too.2 people like this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
11 Jul 09
LOL--years ago when I did all that heavy-duty cleaning everyday, many times it involved lifting heavy tub-type containers filled with my photo work...one can't believe how heavy those darn things can be....but it sure gave me a free pumping iron workout.
so mysdianit...shall we start a yoga thing together?? 
I used to be able to do the headstand..yikes gonna take me quite awhile before I can do that again--also if I attempted some of those yoga postures the way I used to I ....uh, might get stuck now in that position
Just had to share this photo I found...even in my heyday..could never do this
I used to be able to do the headstand..yikes gonna take me quite awhile before I can do that again--also if I attempted some of those yoga postures the way I used to I ....uh, might get stuck now in that position
Just had to share this photo I found...even in my heyday..could never do this2 people like this
@mysdianait (66009)
• Italy
11 Jul 09
Well I know I really should spur you on but...
together? 
Yoga is not my cup of tea and if I have to do that in the pic...
Yoga is not my cup of tea and if I have to do that in the pic... 2 people like this
@mysdianait (66009)
• Italy
11 Jul 09
LOL
I can't find my feet without doing yoga
and if she lost her hand
I can't find my feet without doing yoga
and if she lost her hand 2 people like this
@AmbiePam (93898)
• United States
11 Jul 09
I'm still overweight because I'm trying to handle a certain illness that made me gain weight, but I am stronger than I used to be. I'm still a wimp though! I had just worked up to a certain amount of time on my exercise bike, but after my back procedure Monday, he told me not to until the next check up. But NOT exercising makes me feel fat and lazy. Seriously, I can almost feel myself getting fatter.
2 people like this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
11 Jul 09
I understand that idea of NOT exercising making one lazy--that's exactly how I've been feeling for a long time
Want to join me in yoga? LOL
I've discovered some youtube videos on yoga for beginners which might be a good start for me
Want to join me in yoga? LOL
I've discovered some youtube videos on yoga for beginners which might be a good start for me2 people like this
@byfaithonly (10698)
• United States
11 Jul 09
I've heard yoga is great but ADD me lasted for a few days and lost interests... My suggestion, LOL, was actually doing this at work today isometrics. Stuck on my butt at my desk with headphone attached to my ear calls were a bit slow so in between I was doing some 'chair exercises". Put my hands over my head and pressed and released palms against each other. With feet on a low foot stool pressed and released my knees against each other. Then for a change I gave my waist a workout by twisting back and forth in my swivel desk chair - girls got a laugh over that one :)
2 people like this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
11 Jul 09
LOL--I have this one small statue kind of thing made of pure brass and HEAVY...I've been using that as a weight, grasping it in my one hand and lifting my arm up then switch hands--I bet your swivel chair exercise is priceless to watch
1 person likes this
@byfaithonly (10698)
• United States
11 Jul 09
Wouldn't say 'priceless' but did entertain a few and honestly around that place we get to where we welcome a laugh no matter what it is, so depressing :( Almost hung up on one lady this morning, would have been fired for sure which might be a blessing but....' Just don't understand how people can call some place looking for help but be so rude and vulgar to the person they want help from.... Actually wrote article going to submit to AC this weekend on the subject...
2 people like this
@irishmist (3814)
• United States
11 Jul 09
I exercise 4 days a week. I have a gazelle machine, an exercise ball, weights and rubber bands. And at work I get alot of exercise going up and down stairs everyday.I also work out with exercise TV on cable. They have tons of different routines to chose from.
2 people like this
@debster65 (53)
• United States
11 Jul 09
Hi,
I have to say I love your honesty!! High figh for you . I noticed too that I am not as active as I use to be either. I have come to the realize that I am getting older and finally growing up! Not saying that yoga and other forms of exercise is a sign of immaturity . By all means NO! It's just what use to interest me doesn't anymore . In fact the best exercise for me at my age is walking.It has many benefits to it as well. what i like to do is Meditate & walk at the same time. Yes it can be done.I guess u can say that,that is a form of yoga too.Try to do it in the morning as early as you can there is nothing better than greeting the sun rise in the morning.It gives me such an appreciation for the day a head .
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
11 Jul 09
I never mind walking...rather walk than jog....LOL. I had done a discussion some time ago about the "Iron Nun"---she's yes, a nun who does triathlons...the swimming, biking and running thing...and gasps she's 78 years old. And here I am 53 and often feel 150
1 person likes this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
20 Jul 09
If you want to hear an oxymoron --I've been reading on arthritis in general and fibro...some of the websites indicate one really should do exercise, but just real sloooooowwwwwww--maybe that is what is inspiring me to go back to doing yoga--one does things slowly
1 person likes this
@scarlet_woman (23463)
• United States
13 Jul 09
um..not upper bodywise-but that's due to my surgeries,not anything else.
it's very frustrating not being able to do somethings i used to do.
but then..that's what brothers are for
but hey,i'm not complaining.i'm alive,so life is good
i do workout as muscle rehab,but i've always been active anyway.
i have a home machine for arms and leg work.
but hey,i'm not complaining.i'm alive,so life is good
i do workout as muscle rehab,but i've always been active anyway.
i have a home machine for arms and leg work.
@scarlet_woman (23463)
• United States
18 Jul 09
keep an eye on the curb on garbage day.i've found a few almost brand new ones for local friends.it's like they use it twice and go nah.
1 person likes this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
18 Jul 09
I used to have one of those stationary bikes...junked it though as I hardly ever used it...now I wish I had it though...LOL
1 person likes this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
21 Jul 09
Heehee--you be surprised at some of the things I've found in the garbage...like a brand new four shelf bookcase..table stand..etc I'm more cautious though about taking things from the garbage though....so far my building hasn't been "hit" but in my neighborhood there is a real high rate of..........begbugs........ewwwwwwwww
1 person likes this
@derek_a (10873)
•
11 Jul 09
Yes, it is difficult to maintain exercise, especially when I am working on the computer. However, I now create a commitment to stop at certain times a day, and do something physical for at least an hour. If there is no work to be done around the house, then I will go for a brisk walk. I will check my watch and then walk quickly in one direct for a half-hour. I am committed to keep going for half-hour. Then I will turn walk back briskly. That takes another half-hour and I've had my exercise.
A commitment means that I am absolutely guaranteed to see it through, raining or dry or hot or cold. I do not jog, as it is not good to be jarring my body in that way. Walking as quickly as I can manage it, it just as vigorous and there is no impact on the muscles and joints. - Derek
- Derek1 person likes this
@derek_a (10873)
•
12 Jul 09
I don't think we need to be a cripple. After my heart attack I attended physiotherapy and exercise classes, and that helped re-build my muscles that had become weak because of the complete rest without activity I had had whilst in hospital. I noticed that some of my muscles and joints hurt, but there are ways to build up muscle so they stop hurting with activity. If you make enquiries with your doctor or health clinic, I am sure they would be able to point you in the right direction to work with people who are in the know about these things. - Derek
- Derek1 person likes this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
13 Jul 09
To be honest I'm none too happy with my doctor. He's straight laced "western" medicine and even thinks taking any kind of vitamins or herbal supplement is to be discouraged...so if I mentioned yoga he probably think I just landed. Someone actually suggested my finding an acupuncturist around here...might give that a shot too
I'm none too keen on the medical profession to begin with...I get that from my great-grandmother who was a nurse and thought docs were idiots. She was into natural remedies, never took anything stronger than aspirin and lived to be 98---oh she did do shots of whiskey too....LOL
I am starting to do a little bit of yoga already and yikes its discouraging...those stretches I used to do with ease are hard for me to do...but guess just have to keep at it
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
12 Jul 09
One thing I'm hoping to do by getting more exercise is to overcome my often severe joint and foot problems...walking is sometimes a "challenge" for me...all the more reason to exercise though, no? I sure as heck don't want to be a virtual cripple for the rest of my life
1 person likes this
@sid556 (30959)
• United States
11 Jul 09
I went thru the same thing, Pye except for me, it was my kids growing up and moving & the grandkids entering school so less traffic...less work. I also have always been into yoga but let it go by the wayside because I really did not have time. Still...I was so active. Suddenly it is just me and my one daughter left at home and like you...I spent maybe too much time just basking in the freedom of my time. I started noticing my muscle tone as well. I do pushups now daily and sit ups as well. I've been working on my yoga and oh that will be a slow process. I also jumprope and hulahoop. And weather permitting, I walk with my friend.
1 person likes this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
11 Jul 09
I'm definitely going to have to get back into a yoga routine like I used to do...what's kind of discouraging...I'm trying to do some of the "easier" stretching type ones and find that dang it, I can't stretch the way I used to...oh, well...little bit at a time, right?
@sid556 (30959)
• United States
11 Jul 09
I know just what you mean. go slow...you'll get there. I used to do so so many pushups and found I just didn't have it when I started back in. I just keeping adding one more to my count when and build my stamina that way. Same with yoga...just keep trying to take it a step further. It all used to come so easy.
1 person likes this
@daeckardt (6237)
• United States
11 Jul 09
I think I know what you are talking about. I am the queen of sitting on my butt in front of the computer, whether it is to work on school work or responding to mylot discussions!!! I do go out on my bike sometimes, but for the most part I sit around. Do you ride? I am not into jogging either so I would never suggest that, but I do like to walk and ride. If nothing else, maybe you can get into cleaning again. I don't think that would be much fun, but if it was keeping you in shape, it might be worth it. Who knows, if you did it for someone else, you could make money doing it. Have a great day!!!
2 people like this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
11 Jul 09
Alas no bike LOL--yup, maybe I should get back into cleaning more regularly again..as you said, not fun, but did keep me better muscle toned
LOL--yup, maybe I should get back into cleaning more regularly again..as you said, not fun, but did keep me better muscle toned1 person likes this
@celticeagle (168269)
• Boise, Idaho
12 Jul 09
I have to make a schedule and keep to it. If I don't I can't stay with it. I have to really commit myself to these things. I figure no one else is going to do it if I don't. It helped me too to get a trainer for a while. I felt more like doing it if I had to meet someone. Walking or riding with friends is good too for the same reason.
1 person likes this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
18 Jul 09
I think that's what I need to do, set up a schedule. Used to do that years ago when I did exercise regularly
1 person likes this
@kprofgames (3091)
• United States
11 Jul 09
No, I'm not as physically strong as I used to be. I take that part as coming with age. I am a strong person, more muscle tone then most, but excersize? I don't know Pye, I thought about it, but it would seriously interfer with smoking - LOL!
2 people like this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
11 Jul 09
LOL--I used to have better breath control years ago with the yogic type breathing even though I smoked...mmm...maybe should get back to that too....
1 person likes this
@HelScream (2822)
• Philippines
18 Jul 09
hahaha I know what you mean I have 15 cats here which my mom raised all of them I am glad I dont have to clean it everyday though since we took turns on cleaning those nasty stuff. And no I havent done any exercise lately and would be glad to hear any kind of suggestion from you on how to go about it. I mean I am only 30 but the last time I do exercise is I just could not remember... imagine that. I am not living a healthy lifestyle and would really be thankful if you could suggest to me how you encourage yourself to do it. I have been feeling lots of things on my body lately and I know I have to do something about it... just dont know where to start.
1 person likes this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
20 Jul 09
I used to do a very regimented combo of yoga and ballet barre exercises years ago and is what kept me very flexible and kept my muscle tone strong--if you've never done yoga...go over to Youtube and type in Yoga...there are a lot of videos there that will give you an idea of what it's all about and might inspire you to do it. My advice though, as with any exercise program...GO SLOW--I'm starting to get back into doing yoga and alas...find I'm not as flexible as I once was but perhaps with continued practice will be---going to take awhile that's for sure
@onesiobhan (1327)
• Canada
13 Jul 09
I suffered a back injury that made a lot of exercises difficult and then I developed severe asthma that killed me for doing the rest! I used to work out every day so I've definitely gone way down hill in terms of shape.
I'm working on it though - I'm doing some pilates tapes in my living room. My hope is that I can build up my back enough that working out won't cause me pain, and then I can move on to more strenuous exercises.
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
18 Jul 09
I need to work up slowly as well. I was trying to do some of the yoga stretches and couldn't stretch as well as I used to..groan! I guess with time and patience I will
@rowantree (1186)
• United States
14 Jul 09
I haven't read your responses, Pye, but I'm guessing someone has already suggested going for a walk? I don't believe you should throw yourself into an exercise routine but instead do it very gradually. If you really wanted to get fit, you could continue walking and after a few months add yoga to your routine. Maybe buy some hand weights that you can use while walking as that would help build muscle in your arms. Good luck to you, I'm absolutely horrible at making myself exercise!
1 person likes this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
15 Jul 09
Well the one great thing about yoga that it isn't a strenuous type of exercise...not like aerobics--it's very subtle movements. I try to walk but do have foot and joint pains so walking long distances for now is out...but hoping yoga stretching might even help that
@4mymak (1793)
• Malaysia
14 Jul 09
i keep telling myself that i need to get off my bums and exercise, too...
but then - i JUST KEEP TELLING myself.. havent actually done much..
earlier this year - my husband bought new bicycles for our boys.. he bought the 'adult' bicycle - and i was most happy because i thought i could start cycling after coming home from work, and start a new workout routine - and i did.. for a week.. after that, my work routine changed - i had to work late, too late to cycling after i come home..
normally i am not really bothered about my weight or my 'shape' but i got kind of 'offended' when someone whom i havent met for quite some time commented that my face is a bit 'rounder'... 
but cant blame her.. working at the office - i sit in front of the computer, on my 'round and beautiful' bums for up to eight hours - eating snacks in between.. so if i dont get up and do any exercise - serves me right...
after that, my work routine changed - i had to work late, too late to cycling after i come home..
normally i am not really bothered about my weight or my 'shape' but i got kind of 'offended' when someone whom i havent met for quite some time commented that my face is a bit 'rounder'...
but cant blame her.. working at the office - i sit in front of the computer, on my 'round and beautiful' bums for up to eight hours - eating snacks in between.. so if i dont get up and do any exercise - serves me right...1 person likes this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
18 Jul 09
Mmmm...don't you just LOVE compliments like that? NOT. The other day I was getting my mail and one of my neighbors commented "Hey you look like you've gained a bit of weight" At the time I was wearing a real loose baggy pair of jeans that do make me look...uh, fatter...but nope, haven't gained weight
@bellis716 (4799)
• United States
12 Jul 09
I like to think of myself as in good shape for my age. That is, I did until someone sent me a clip of a 85 year old show girl. That's right, age 85, and she was easily keeping up with those young enough to be her granddaughters. Even though that lady has 10 years on me, I don't expect to do what she does. I couldn't do it at 20. I can do better, though, and will get back to my daily walks just as soon as the weather cools. I just had a flashback. I remember that I used to do exercises during the TV commercials. If I did that instead of heading to the refrigerator, I'm sure I'd be more fit. A hint that might help, when the weather is cool enough to walk. I carry a 4 pound weight in each hand and raise them above my head and out to the side. That helps to keep my upper arms from getting as flabby.
1 person likes this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
18 Jul 09
I did a discussion about the Iron Nun as she is called...a 78 year old woman who does triathlons --even in my 20s I couldn't do them!
@hotsummer (13837)
• Philippines
18 Jul 09
wow. you do had lots of work to do before with those cats in your homes dirtying the place and you have to scrub the floor, wipe it clean, make it smell great, whew that was such a difficult job.it will make any person's life a hell doing that chore every day. must have been really tiring to stay in a home life that. i do had my own responsibility as a child back then. and yes i do complained a lot. i hated the house work of painting the walls. doing the groceries, cleaning the homes, cooking food for expected visitors, serving them up food, making sure our homes would look great always for whoever people who will get to our place.
i do all that before. and boy, wasn't it a hell of a life before. i never missed that time. i sure love to say that i am totally out of that situation before. like i have no purpose in life than to clean, cook, and be a home person responsible to maintain the beauty of the home and make it look new through the years and let not the sign of aging shows by repainting and every thing needed. though i do only repainting. i do just clean what the carpenters had left off after doing some repairs of the ceilings or some renovation this and there.
and i had to scrub every dark spots on my cook wares, make it look new after burning some foods there.
i had to wake up at 6 am then sleep at 12 am. then the same thing every day.
1 person likes this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
18 Jul 09
I'm sure glad I don't have to clean the way I used to...but how ironic that by all that cleaning I used to do, it kept me fit and strong
@MuncheeLee (132)
• United States
18 Jul 09
I am not as strong as I used to be. I'm also not as slim.
I try to do my yoga at lest 3 times a week. It makes my plantar fasciitis and damaged discs feel better. I do the Hatha Yoga.
It's funny because I don't spend alot of time just sitting in front of a computer. At work I am constantly up to ask the doctor something or fax or run something to the front office. Yet I am still having trouble losing weight and staying fit.
1 person likes this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
18 Jul 09
I definitely need to build myself up...could help get rid of my aches and pains---I actually read somewhere that people with RA actually NEED to exercise instead of taking it easy...
