My sister-in-law, Jerrie shared how she fits in her workout. “I’m no expert, but I will share what I have learned. I workout 6 days per week. The only way this happens is through planning, because as we all know willpower does not exist. Each week I look at my calendar for the next 7 days and write my work-out on my schedule. Sometimes it is in the morning because I won’t have time at night; usually it is in the evening after work because I do not like to work-out in the morning. I think of it as scheduling an appointment with myself. Each night I let my husband know my schedule for the next day so he can plan his time.
Exercise lifts my mood and gives me a sense of accomplishment in addition to all the physical benefits. I never “feel” like working out but I’m always glad I did!”
I think it’s so impressive that Jerrie exercises six days a week because she has osteoarthritis. I’m sure she often doesn’t feel like exercising. Not only does her workout help her look great, it keeps her moving. Thanks for your inspiring words.
I thought if Jerrie can do this, I should be able to do it. I realize my two options are first thing in the morning or last at night—before or after I get Mark in bed. I chose first thing in the morning and made a schedule that looks like this for me:
I also made a calendar for February and March—so I’m committed to three months of this scheduled date with myself.
Two of my Weight Training Cards look like this.
Upper Body Exercises
I have a great book, Body for Life by, Bill Phillips and Michael D’Orso. There are at least 40 exercises with pictures and description in the book. I copied the ones I was interested in doing. Each exercise has it’s own card, (two cards are shown above) laminated with a picture and description on one side and a record sheet for the weight and repetitions, taped on the other side .This way I can see my progress and when I fill up one Record Sheet, I can pull it off and add a new one.
My Record Sheet:
I’m no expert either, but I’m planning on winning this battle. Now that I’ve told you about it; have a plan of what to do; and will keep record of it—I’m committed and motivated! I’m only two days into to this program but it’s a good start. When the alarm goes off, I’ve made a commitment to myself and you—so I’ll get up and workout.
Feel free to join me and let me know about your plan and progress.
Uniting Caregivers 
I have a schedule also but it doesn’t involve so many days.My regular walking partner has had a lot of problems and hasn’t been able to walk for several months and I do not walk alone. I have another now and I think the former will be back later this week. We will resume the schedule we had before. That plan for me was to walk for an hour then go to an hour long gentle yoga and then about an hour in the weight room.This happens every Tuesday and Thursday. The reason for this peculiar schedule is that it involves about a half hour drive to get to the places where these events take place. My doctor would like me to walk more . Jerrie suggested that if my partners cannot walk that I go to the Target store near me and walk and pick up necessities while I am there. I plan to try this soon also so maybe I can get more walking in.With my partners, we go to walk a trail if the weather is nice or to the mall if it is raining(which it often is). I find it really helpful to have a walking partner because you hate to disappoint them and it gives more incentive to get out there and do it. Mom
I agree, an exercise partner is the best. I really miss my biking partner in the winter months. We will resume once the weather warms up.
GREAT ideas, Barbara! Thanks for sharing. Now, if I could just get organized . . . 🙂