Flashback:
I collapsed to the cold, hard floor, thighs trembling and tears tracking down my reddened face. “I’m sorry, I’m so sorry. I can’t, I just can’t” I whispered desperately over and over. It was my high school volleyball team tryouts. For the first time, my body simply did not have the strength I needed to keep up with my friends. Only later did I realize that I wasn’t apologizing to the volleyball coach; I was actually apologizing to myself. For failing.
Today, I don’t need to apologize to myself. I have found a new strength. Several years ago, I discovered the Burn the Fat, Feed the Muscle (BFFM) program developed by natural body-builder Tom Venuto. BFFM requires you to lift weights in order to increase lean muscle mass and decrease fat. I had never lifted weights regularly prior to that. Not only is lifting weights critical to increasing muscle, but it also helps with the slower metabolism that comes with the third decade of life. I used to believe I was strong despite being one hundred pounds overweight. Now, I am just strong. I’m no body-builder, but I can actually see muscle definition in my arms and legs. The beauty of lifting weights is that you burn fat, even while you’re resting! Who can say no to that?
For those of you who are wondering, I don’t have a gym membership. I haven’t had one in several years. In fact, the majority of the weight I lost happened in my own home! You don’t need to buy fancy weight-lifting equipment, convert your garage to a lifting space, or get the newest gadgets. I used a set of free weights that my husband bought before we were married. I also use a resistance band several times a week for overall toning and core exercises. There are also many body weight exercises that don’t require any apparatus at all. In general, it’s a good idea to focus on major muscle groups every other day. For example, work you arms/upper body on Monday, and your legs/lower body on Tuesday. Resting is also important in between your weight-lifting sessions. Remember, you are building muscle even while resting!
What about technique? You might have the equipment and the desire, but have no idea where to begin. There are numerous Youtube videos that can show you proper technique, if you prefer not to get a personal trainer. I am also a frequent consumer of exercise videos, many of which offer solid toning techniques. I’m a big fan of the 10 Minute Solution series. As a busy mother of two, sometimes 10 minutes is all I have to spare. Plus, studies have shown little difference between getting your daily exercise in 10-minute segments or a continuous 30-minute stretch.
The great thing about realizing your weakness is you can always get stronger. When I was in high school, I struggled to physically keep up with my team. I was weak. Not anymore. Now, I can reach new levels of strength. All it takes is a little bit of effort, and a lot of belief. No apologies needed.