So out of shape

[XanaDUer2]

Exercising by walking 3 times up and down A modest staircase. Slightly out of breath. So sad. Been sitting on my ass too long

[claudette]

1. What I find helpful

is a simple rowing machine. Not the HUGE ones, just one with a small footprint and a way to increase the hydraulic tension so that you can advance in time. It's even good for seniors. It's aerobic and helps muscles without putting pressure on joints (I have an injured foot).

I do it every day. 50 rows at a time until I feel up to building up to more.

[XanaDUer2]

2. Thank you

I need to do something. I'll start with stairs. Its just so embarrassing to be this out of shape

[claudette]

3. I know what you mean....

A while ago, I attended a wedding out of town and had to do so much walking it really was uncomfortable. I vowed to do something about it. I'm starting to feel better after using the rowing machine. It wasn't expensive ($99 on Amazon) and it seems to be helping me.

Good luck with the stairs. I have trouble walking UP stairs because of my foot/knee/hip. So I had to find something easier. Hope the stairs work for you!

[XanaDUer2]

4. I'll update everyone

Heading out in ten for another 3 climbs.

[claudette]

5. 👍

[Journeyman]

6. Congratulations. You've made it up and down a modest staircase multiple times . . .

That's more than you did last week, and despite any aches and pains you may have today, those will gradually recede and the staircase will be easier to climb. Mix in some modest walks around the block, just to limber your muscles and get accustomed to moving, and I'm certain you'll be feeling better soon.

I began as modestly as you. That was 80 pounds ago. It took time, it took a little pain, but mostly it took consistency. Keep it up. Make it your goal just to do the modest exercises you have in mind for today. With patience, the distances will grow, the effort will become easier (despite the increases in so many incremental ways), and your health will be the better for it.

Take care. And take your time!

[XanaDUer2]

7. You're so kind

Ty for your response. I have constant back, left-thigh pain I'm hoping will be addressed. I'm sure its my back and sitting in a crappy chair all day. 2 yrs sitting since i retired disabled.

Yes, that's how I'm approaching this. I'll try it 3 times tomorrow

[OnDoutside]

8. How are you doing now ?

I've lost 180 pounds since 2016 and one of the first things I bought was a smart watch. It was amazing to discover that up to that point, for a few years if I walked 1,000 steps a day it would have been a lot.

If you get one, don't worry about setting targets, just see how many steps you walk per day over a week. Then set a realistic target beyond your average. I have my average up to about 8000 steps a day, but my minimum target is 5000.

Another tip I was given was to walk out the door for 5 minutes and back again, then that's a 10 minute walk. Build it up from there.

[XanaDUer2]

9. Still need more

I've slacked off. I have depression, so getting going is hard. Its a vicious cycle. Thanks for asking

[OnDoutside]

10. Yes, I completely understand, ever decreasing circles.

I've had so many false starts over the years, small manageable steps is what got me going eventually. Best wishes, keep trying 👍