exercise

[Laura's Babies]

I BEEN wanting to join a gym but on a month to month basis, without a contract because I don't know how my financial situation is going to go for me this year.. Everywhere you go want a contract. I don't want to loose weight but just stay healthy and off the couch.

[K9karen]

I've been going to LA Fitness for 2 years. I've been trying to go 3-4 days a week in the mornings. It really toned me up. But I've had to put a hold on my membership because I'm heading towards more spine surgery and am afraid of hurting myself. I've noticed a huge difference not going. I didn't go to lose weight, but to feel better, which I did.

[Sirrahsim]

For those of you who have joined a gym is it worth it?
The first time I joined it went very well until I got a little overzealous and pulled both of my quads. That was the beginning of the end of THAT gym. Here at my new base we have a small gym and I LOVE it. I feel great as soon as I walk in the door.

Do you go?
Now that I have a free gym to go to and the motivation to get off of my lazy butt I do. At least 3x a week and anytime I start to feel stressed

Have you lost weight?
The hubby and I are doing Biggest Loser this month so I am down just shy of 10 lbs since the 3rd of January. I was going to the gym regularly from Sep to Nov but did not lose weight because I did not change my eating habits

Got into a better shape?
Absolutely! At the start I could barely go half a mile on the elliptical without wanting to lay down on the floor and die. Now my usual workout is 4 miles in about 30 minutes

Met new friends?
In Sep I started going with 3 or 4 ladies from my neighborhood but I didn't really get to know anyone new through the gym

Changed your lifestyle?
Absolutely, and I don't plan on ever looking back.

Improved your health?
Absolutely

[wanwan1007]

I know this is an old thread but for some reason I missed it. So Sirrahsim, after all the encouragement to join a gym did you do it?

I do go to the gym. I've been going for almost 6 years now. I go now between 2 to 3 times a week. Since I want to lose weight I'm trying to get that back up to 5 times a week.

I've lost weight and gained weight in the 6 year time. When I was consistent AND CHANGED MY DIET I lost 30lbs. I've gained 1/2 of that back now.

I'm definitely in better shape. The first time I went I got on the eliptical for 3 minutes and thought I was going to have to be carried outl I can now do the eliptical for 60 minutes. I walk the 7 flights of stairs at my job up and down and don't need the EMC (emergency medical care)!!

Met New Friends? Yep

I agree with taking classes. They help me the most. I push myself harder and stay longer than I would If I work out by myself.

As far as Zumba it's all about the teacher. I've taken a really good class and one really bad class.

[3Catcondo]

I love Zumba, it's so much fun!! The time flies by and you sweat your butt off.
Laura-
Do you have YMCA's near you? If so, they are month to month, they base their dues on income or lack of. They have a fund of donations set aside for those who financially can't afford to pay...you should check into it.