SEE THE CHANGE

Rita Robles

April 2008

Getting Started

I’m going to focus mainly on core and cardio exercises in the beginning so I can build up heart and lung strength. After that, everything else will fall into place. Now carrying most of my weight in my mid-section, I’m also hoping for some flatter abs.

The hardest part so far is just making time for the gym. My typical day is packed with getting the kids to school, working at a law firm, getting dinner on the table, and everything in between. It's hectic, so I have to work to find the time.

The week I planned to start working out my son fell down a flight of stairs at school, my sister needed my assistance moving into her apartment, and my grandmother was in the hospital and needed my help. But I still made it to the gym on Sunday and worked out for about 45 minutes. I did the elliptical machine for 30 minutes, and I was surprised that I wasn’t as winded as expected. I worked my inner and out thighs on the machines and did 50 crunches. Afterward I felt some soreness in my arms, thighs, and outer abs.

Two days later I only had 30 minutes, so I did 25 minutes on the elliptical and 5 minutes of stretching. I wanted to stay longer but my daughter got out of work early and I didn’t want to leave her waiting. Hopefully next time I will be able to stay an hour.