Making a committment to me

MizFit's recent post on exercise gurus reminded me of something I wanted to share. Since I can't work out with Jillian Michaels (it would probably kill me anyway), I've decided to take advantage of a local guru I really respect.

I have been working on ramping up my exercise program, but last week I had a setback. I took an easy day and then the next day, I found I had somehow strained an inner thigh muscle. I'm still not sure how that happened. Then my old shoulder problems flared up again. I haven't been doing strength training, other than some Pilates classes, and had been telling myself that I was going to fit that in once I had the cardio routine going. I think I need to figure it out, because these weird traveling injuries are what got me sidetracked the last time around.

I decided to skip my planned swim yesterday because I didn't want to aggravate the shoulders. I did a Pilates mat class at a nearby yoga and Pilates studio I really like. Instead of buying a membership, you pay by the class or service. If I had more money, I would live in that place. I can already tell that the Pilates class helped -- my shoulders feel much better today.

While I was there I talked to the owner about a special they're running, which is a discounted package of three personal training sessions and five classes. I think that getting some expert advice could help -- I have a Y membership, and I try to create workout plans for myself, but I think I need someone to help me figure out how to fit everything together and make sure my plan is balanced. The first personal training session would be a fitness evaluation. I'm just waiting to hear from the owner when she can fit me into her schedule. If they can develop a plan for me, maybe I can put my various memberships to better use and use my time more effectively.

With my current employment situation, I have the luxury of a lot of flexibility in my schedule for the next few months. I think I need to take advantage of that time to get really focused on my goals.

I'm looking forward (and a little nervous about) the evaluation. I'll be sure to let you all know how it goes.

P.S. (Sorry for the double post, RSS readers) I almost forgot. I got contacted through the Jillian Michaels site by someone looking for a fitness buddy. I suggested that she start a blog, because I have found a lot of support from mine. I hope you'll go say hi to Sharon and give her some encouragement!