This is a guest post by Topher Lee
Back in my younger days, I stayed in shape by playing sports and working out with my friends. After I got married and started a family, however, my time seemed to revolve around my children and their busy schedules. I became out of shape and frankly, overweight. Worried about my health, my children urged me to take steps to protect my heart and to lower my cholesterol and blood pressure.
Noting their care and concern for my well-being, I gave it some thought and decided they were right. Something needed to change. My first steps? I began by adopting some healthier eating habits and committing to becoming more active as well. The healthier eating part wasn’t too difficult, because I had my wife and kids to aid in preparing and sharing meals with me. The exercise part though was going to take a bit more will power.
Enter the Treadmill
Not feeling comfortable about the thought of joining a gym or walking around the mall, I bought myself a treadmill and had it shipped to my house. Some treadmills exceed the weight limit for ground shipping, so be sure to do your homework before deciding on which treadmill to purchase. I didn’t, but still caught a break. Sort of. It was a huge hassle unloading it into my study, where I chose to set up as my personal workout space.
The delivery guy and I struggled mightily with the beast of a treadmill; it weighed in at well over 150 pounds. His kindness was more than appreciated. We worked to get it up the three steps of the porch and into the house for more than fifteen minutes. My heart rate went up, and it was truly the first workout the treadmill and I had together. I thought to myself, “Man, if this is the workout I get just trying to set the treadmill up, what’s in store for me when I actually start using it?” After that though, I was committed to it in an even deeper way than before.
Feeling worn out just from merely unloading the box, I continued to grumble as I began putting it together. Despite my initial hesitance and grumpiness at having it shipped and getting it assembled, I can honestly say that I am happy that I put the effort into its inclusion in my house. I’ve actually had my treadmill for a few years now and I try to work out on it each and every day.
Using the Treadmill
It took me some time to get used to first walking on it, and then building myself up to jogging on it. The first time I tried to exercise on it, I fell off because I did not know what to expect. In order to make myself feel better, I went out and purchased a good pair of running shoes. Not only were they stylish, but they also supported my ankles and feet better as I worked out. One should never underestimate the benefit of having a great pair of running shoes.
Looking back on my first attempts at using my treadmill, I recognize my blundering and reluctance to work out as vital lessons in getting me to where I am today. My near daily workouts have led me to lose more than fifty pounds. I sleep better, feel better, and in general enjoy life much more than I did before I became more active. I have had the luxury of exercising in the comfort of my own home, without fearing strangers watching me pant and sweat as I jog.
My daily run on my treadmill has become a time when I can be alone with my thoughts and just focus on taking care of myself. From the day treadmill was shipped, it has become an important part of my life. I agree that initially I did not welcome the idea, but I can also say that it was worth the effort of selecting, hauling, and assembling it. If I ever have to move, you can guarantee that baby is coming with us.
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