I love going to the gym, and I am so glad to be back at it. I love the soreness in my muscles that reminds me what good work I've done. I relish the fatigue I feel after an hour of good, solid exercise. I cherish the restful sleep that comes only after a day that includes intense physical activity.
I despise the way my body reacts during the first week or two. I want to eat all the time, but I can't always tell if I'm hungry or if my body is just craving something specific to meet a physical need that hasn't been needy for a while. I try to listen and respond, but nothing ever seems to satisfy; I try protein, I up my carbs, I drink more water than I ever cold have imagined, and then suddenly I feel full and sluggish. RATS! To top it off, my weight is fluctuating all over the scale, but in general I'm showing a gain. I expected it the first week back with all the working out, the water flooding the repairing muscles, etc., but it's just maddening.
I've been doing this long enough to know that these things are par for the course, to be expected, and quite temporary. Despite my own sage advice, however, I don't feel comforted. Maybe I'll go work off my frustration at the gym . . .
Holy Cow, Look at you! You look amazing! And your wife looks amazing too! I thin the last time I saw you was at your wedding. I can't believe you have 3 beautiful kids, I'm so happy for you. Congrats and I can't wait to read more!
Posted by: Gretchen (aka Sister Schmidt) | 29 October 2008 at 06:02 PM