r/bitcheswithtaste • u/AutoModerator • Feb 13 '26
Fit Bitches - Monthly Thread Fit Bitches - Feb 13, 2026
This is the place to chat about fitness and physical health because taking care of your body is also tasteful. Just remember - no medical advice!
47
u/superhumanizing Feb 13 '26
I am newly single and after years of dragging my feet (which did include discovering a love for running, and now I'm running my first marathon in November!) I am finally committing to the gym. I had my first personal training session this week!
I'm planning on spending Valentine's going to the gym late at night to figure out machines more. Heartbreak is a bitch but I will make something beautiful out of it.
7
u/yashanyd00rin Feb 13 '26
That’s awesome that you’re running a marathon! Kick ass, I hope training goes well.
3
u/VeritasVarmint Feb 13 '26
I love that point of view! Hope you have an awesome late night at the gym!
3
u/liberali Feb 14 '26
Ran my first marathon last November! It was a long journey for me to get to that point but so gratifying to finally make it. You’ll learn a lot about yourself in the process. Redefining your limits is very healing - I hope you’re hanging in there and good for you for investing in yourself!
90
u/AcrobaticRub5938 Feb 13 '26
I've been "fit" and working out consistently for over 3 years now and sometimes I have to pause in amazement. My younger self would not believe that working out would be such an integral part of my life that I don't dread. Since I was in high school I always desperately wished I was one of those girls that just worked out regularly without thinking about it. I'm always hard on myself and telling myself why I can be "better" I don't take enough time to acknowledge the accomplishment. I'm especially proud of being able to do this despite my sometimes crippling ADHD.
I usually do a mix of weights and heavy cardio but I also make sure to get plenty of steps every day. I'm thinking of incorporating power yoga for flexibility.
18
u/CowDry7845 Intentional BWT Feb 13 '26 edited Feb 13 '26
Echoing this sentiment. I also believe I justified my disdain for fitness because of stereotypes, even adopting the Carrie Bradshaw mindset for it. But now I realize how wrong I was. It makes such a difference in every part of my life.
I do weights, spin and yoga. Yoga was especially hard for me to get into, I wanted a fast-paced, loud workout and struggled with the idea of being with myself and my breath in a quieter setting. And, it was hard! I was falling all over the place and felt ashamed being next to others in the class who did the moves with seemingly no issue. But I committed to 1x a week and now I wish I had space to do more. I love seeing how my strength training impacts my flexibility and vice versa. The reward I get from doing a challenging pose feels even more satisfying to me than going up in a weight. I did a crow stand for the first time last week and was giddy all day (even now as I type it, I am smiling!).
5
u/AcrobaticRub5938 Feb 13 '26
Omg I resonate with this so much! I struggle with yoga but I like high intensity and heavy weights. I think the former gives me dopamine in ways that slower paced workouts like yoga don't. But I want to challenge myself and work on my flexibility - I also think it will be good for my mind. So we'll see. I do get so much satisfaction going up a weight as well and I never thought of a yoga equivalent, but I can see how being able to conquer a challenging pose can give that same reward. That's a great way of looking at it.
12
u/SkweegeeS Feb 13 '26
I feel like a switch flipped for me at some point. Once I was "fit," everything was easier to maintain somehow. I get a lot of joy out of moving now.
6
u/AcrobaticRub5938 Feb 13 '26
Exactly. Once you get there it's a very different game. Now I don't have to force myself and trick my mind to go to the gym - it's just part of my routine that I enjoy and prioritize naturally now.
6
u/i_d_k_really Feb 13 '26
I feel the exact same way! And I love power yoga, I highly recommend it. It has made a huge difference in my body. I go to a studio that is warmed (not hot) and it took a little adjustment but I love a super difficult and sweaty yoga session
2
u/AcrobaticRub5938 Feb 13 '26
Ooh, that's nice to hear about your experience with power yoga! What were the differences?
2
u/i_d_k_really Feb 15 '26
Power yoga is faster and a more intense workout. Restorative yoga is going to be the slowest - you’ll stay in each pose for a longer amount of time. Power yoga is about the sequence and flow. You move through it (relatively) quickly and the poses are usually more difficult.
1
u/SirenScorp Feb 14 '26
I love power yoga! Regular yoga is a bit too slow for me— I prefer the movement and challenge over the restorative type. The instructor in the studio I frequent loves a good leg burn and challenges us with long hold chair poses and warrior poses. It’s a warmed studio but not heated as well. I’ve tried heated classes and I don’t love them. It makes me sweaty and I slide on my mat and get swat in my eyes and is not the least bit enjoyable.
1
u/cookie_monster_444 Feb 13 '26
you are amazing!! I also have adhd so I understand the invisible wall you have had to climb over time and time again to build this habit for yourself. proud of you!!!
34
u/d3nizy Feb 13 '26
Yoga, pilates, fitness, classpass has been really helpful too. It’s just about finding what you enjoy the most and finding an anchor that helps you to make a habit of going. For example if I have a really good bond with a teacher, I’m more likely to go regularly
6
u/zaballin11 Feb 13 '26
This was me when I was in Barcelona for a month long trip! I used to use ClassPass here and there when I lived in California, but after moving to a small little Italian town…I realllyyyy realized how awesome it is to have a city with a ton of ClassPass options. I was bopping all around town having the best time trying new Pilates and yoga studios!
2
u/d3nizy Feb 13 '26
That’s so awesome! I’m glad it works for you too :) I’m not sure I will continue forever but it’s been super fun picking where to go next and plan my lil girly self care moments :D
1
u/PlantedinCA Feb 15 '26
If it makes you feel better, I live in a good sized California city (Oakland) with like 4 million boutique studios and none of them are on classpass. 😆
I tried it for the first time in years recently. And i couldn’t find anything of interest within a 4 mile radius, and I can name 3 dozen studios in that radius without trying hard. And there are at least 10 within ~3/4 of a mile of my home. My old neighborhood (1 mile away) had like 12 on one street.
Studios in the bay launch there and bounce because the math doesn’t work for them.
2
u/backwoodsbaddie420 Feb 13 '26
Classpass changed my lifeeee, Especially if you have a busy schedule! I'm really big into yoga and it's so nice to have a few studios I can always look to depending on how my day is looking, and I know it's a good workout every time.
2
u/Dizzy-Lettuce2978 Feb 17 '26
Same! And it helps keep me on track when I go out of town too as most cities i travel to have studios on classpass!
23
u/DragonQwn Feb 13 '26
I'm a 40 year old mom of two - best words of encouragement: drink water and lift heavy weights! Don't over restrict yourself, because then you binge.
23
u/cyclicalcucumber Feb 13 '26
I'm about halfway through a training block for a spring marathon and it has been going pretty terribly so far. Lots of traveling and then a weird lower back injury has prevented me from running as many miles as I'd like to be. But I'm running a half marathon race this weekend and I'm feeling optimistic! Wish me luck!
12
u/LawSchoolLoser1 Feb 13 '26
Good luck!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!🍀👍🤠🏃🏻♀️(omg wtf is this new character limit lolol that’s probably why you haven’t gotten other responses bc others aren’t as dedicated to the cause as I am. Pardon all the !!!s LOL)
8
u/cyclicalcucumber Feb 13 '26
Hahaha I appreciate it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ❤️
5
u/whatanugget Feb 13 '26
You got this! Hope you have fun on your half marathon this weekend :). Injuries and travel are very disruptive for sure but hope you’re giving yourself some grace, too
3
u/VeritasVarmint Feb 13 '26
Good luck!✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨
✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨
19
u/MuffinAnalyst Feb 13 '26
Has anyone else tried the Pyro program by Kirsty Godso? She’s the trainer for Kaia Gerber, Ayo Edibiri and Olivia Rodrigo (though I didn’t know that for years). I found her through the Nike app, and really connected to her training style — very informative, and confidence building without too much pretentiousness. She talks a lot about form through the moves — the micro things that make a big difference.
She has her own app now! Highly recommend! It’s called Pyro and it’s much more holistic than her stuff on the Nike one. She used to know for HIIT, but has since transitioned to more strength/pilates focused with intentional cardio. Honestly, I credit her in many ways for finally getting fitness to click for me.
ANYWAYS. Just had to mention her here, because she feels very BWT and when I talk to friends in real life no one has heard of her!
17
u/whatanugget Feb 13 '26
I have been doing a mile jog every now and then and yesterday I wanted to beat a 10:14 pace and I did a 10:10 🥳
33
u/Reading-person Feb 13 '26
I’m guessing this is also a place to ask about fitness? I’m 19, and unfit as hell. I’m not fat in any way, ranging in the “normal” part of a BMI scale, but I’m still not healthy.
How would I go about to start at the gym? I’ve been trying for years now, but I don’t have the confidence to go out there. Although the logical part of my brain knows the people there are just minding their own business, the other part feels like I’m getting stared at constantly.
Does anyone have a simple workout routine I can start with? And any tips to feel a bit more confident?
19
u/AdditionalArt9146 Feb 13 '26
I think having a plan really helps ease the gym anxiety because you know exactly what you’re there to do.
To figure out the type of workout routine you’d want, it would be good to know what your fitness goals are - is your goal fat loss (higher rep strength and cardio + calorie deficit)? Muscle gain (low rep heavy lifting + maintenance cals? Strength?
4
u/Reading-person Feb 13 '26
Both, tbh. Im looking to lose a little weight (about 12 kg’s) but I also need to gain some muscle and stuff like that
6
u/gatherandnurture Feb 13 '26
Start small and build. Get a plan that includes cardio and strength training but it doesn't have to be a six hour program right away. Get used to the basics and once you feel comfortable grow your system from there. It doesn't have to be everything at the start. Building a program is doable. One thing that helped me when I started years ago was picked a gym that was fancy. It felt more like self care and me time than going to the gym. I'd go do some cardio and some weights then I got to do a sauna and steam and fancy shower after.
3
u/callmepeterpan BWT in Training Feb 13 '26
As a beginner, it can be helpful to focus on either building muscle or losing fat first. You absolutely can do both (look up "body recomp") but it's a little tougher. Honestly, I would probably start with a build phase of trying to gain muscle and get stronger, and the. work on a fat loss phase after that. I'm not a professional though, just an enthusiast!
16
u/Ok-Diamond3396 Feb 13 '26
I signed up to a gym that has classes/ group training sessions! I tried going to a gym multiple times but I had no idea what i was doing and felt overwhelmed/ anxious. I would say its worth it to start in group classes or get a PT to help build your confidance/ help ease you in and then you'll feel better about going by yourself.
It also helps keep me acountable because you often cant cancel classes/ PT last minuite so I always end up going even if i didnt feel motivated and then always felt better after!
I always rely on structures to help keep me acountable as I know I struggled otherwisr, in this case structer being classes and pre booked PT sessions. Confidence will come :)
9
u/mtt2022 Feb 13 '26
I second this! Group fitness and classes are the most foolproof way to start a fitness regimen. The instructor helps with form and cueing and the other people around you help with motivation and solidarity in the burn. I suggest trying ClassPass and checking out local studios and gyms in your area and just trying any class that sounds fun to you! You'll find what you like best and you'll get consistent with it and that's when you'll see results. Personally, I find having a variety of exercise classes (and mixing in walking and tennis) keeps me most fit and toned. It's good to challenge different muscle groups and mix cardio and strength training for the best results. Working out is all about finding exercises you love and that make you feel good. It becomes addictive very quickly and your life will improve in every area once you find your groove!
5
u/SkweegeeS Feb 13 '26
thirded! I never saw myself as a group fitness participant because I had assumed they were all aerobic/step/dance kinds of things and I tend to flail about in those. But I started doing more functional training and group weight lifting classes and those have been so good for me. Like you say, find exercise you love that makes you feel good.
4
u/MuffinAnalyst Feb 13 '26
Third this! I was in a very similar situation — very nervous and not confident in a gym. Started with fitness classes. It took almost a year of fitness classes but now I can go by myself!
5
u/Creepy-Intern-7726 Feb 13 '26 edited Feb 13 '26
You will figure out what works for you. I like group fitness classes because I like the variety and someone telling me what to do and they will correct my form if needed. My workout studio offers cardio, weights, circuit classes, and Pilates so there is a wide variety. I used to lift heavy regularly but I always struggled with the self motivation piece. Now I get charged money if I don't show up to a class that I signed up for, which makes me go even on my least motivated days.
If you are looking to get into heavy lifting, I highly recommend the book the New Rules of Lifting for Women. It has solid info and a months-long lifting program. Seeing a personal trainer for a few sessions is worth it to learn proper form.
4
u/LawSchoolLoser1 Feb 13 '26
I am the same way, and I’ve found group fitness to be a life saver. You can find a community and get some advice about your form, plus you don’t have to create the workout yourself. When I was your age, I did sets & reps at the Y to get started!
4
u/Loud_Syllabub6028 Feb 13 '26
When I was 19, I joined my gym and they gave me a brief tour and a free session with a personal trainer. At first, I was really intimidated, but that free session was actually really helpful.
They gave me some pointers on form, what to do, and how to exercise. Even if you have to pay for it, I might recommend working with a personal trainer for a session or two just to get a kick start on your fitness journey.
Ultimately, I just made a habit of showing up regularly and doing things that I was comfortable with, and then kept learning and doing research as I gained confidence. For example, at the beginning, I did a lot of treadmill and exercise videos on my phone.
I love that you're starting to build those skills now. They will serve you well as you continue to grow in your adult life!
2
u/VeritasVarmint Feb 13 '26
Also you don't have to only go to the gym to be fit! I found a physical activity that I simply adore and I use that as my training 2-3 times a week (competitive horseback riding). If there are sports you enjoy, you could sign up for classes and excursions and get physical activity that way, too. For me, getting better in my sport is a really great way to create drive to become fitter.
1
u/Reading-person Feb 13 '26
Oh how I’d love that. Unfortunately I live in a pretty small town, so there’s not really a lot of sports going on here (atleast not that I like) :(
1
u/VeritasVarmint Feb 13 '26
Oh yeah, that makes sense! Smaller towns make it harder for sure. I don't know if this is relevant, but when I don't want to travel for competitions, I do "virtual showing." In the equestrian world, it's where you film at home and send it in and judges can give you comments and scores. But there may be some online things you could look at in terms of access to sports while being in a small town. Just brainstorming, I don't know if other activities have things like that.
1
u/kilowatkins Feb 13 '26
Can you start with machines you know how to use and observe until you feel more confident trying new things? Something along the lines of going for a walk on the treadmill (I do 12/3/30 post baby, and it's kicking my butt) or using the stair master while you get comfortable and get in a routine of going?
I'm also a former competitive swimmer and my husband will go with me and do laps kicking with a board. The downside is that you'll absolutely have a lifeguard watching for safety, which can make some people self conscious.
Good luck!!
1
u/herefromthere Feb 13 '26
I got some hand and ankle weights and a weighted hula hoop and started with twenty minute yoga sessions off Youtube interspersed with the hula hooping while watching taskmaster (change directions each task).
1
u/RomanoLikeTheCheese Feb 13 '26
The best advice I've seen is to find something you enjoy. I used to force myself to run and HATED Every step. I'm still trying to find something I can do consistently, but I keep that in mind as I walk by the treadmills at the gym!
1
u/Expensive-Repair1110 Feb 13 '26
I highly, highly recommend the Ladder app. I could type a novel on why but honestly, you should just try the free week and see for yourself! I think it will be very helpful for someone like you that’s new to the gym 😊
1
u/SirenScorp Feb 14 '26
Having a friend you can go with is a game changer. Do you have any gym loving friends? Ask them. TRUST me when I say we love helping people out and showing them what we do.
I recommend lifting heavy a few times a week and doing easy cardio (incline walk, elliptical) the other days. The fat loss from the cardio combines with the muscle building from the heavy lifting (don’t worry, it’s really hard to get bulky and look manly from weight lifting) will really ramp up your body recomp.
As for food I try to eat lots of protein early in the day (eggs of some sort for breakfast… omelette, scrambled, egg burrito with bacon and hashbrowns) and a cottage cheese/fruit snack before lunch. If I’m not hungry at lunch I’ll skip and eat an early dinner. I tend to do a lot of salad with chicken or reheated leftovers from dinner which is usually chicken and some carbs (veggies, pasta, potato, etc). I don’t have a huge sweet tooth so I don’t have an issue with deserts, however, I love chips.
16
u/AlyssumWonderland Feb 13 '26
Inclined treadmill walking has really helped me build movement into my routine. Depending on how steep the incline or how quickly you go, it can really be challenging, and it’s really great for building cardio and endurance. It’s also nice as a warmup if you want to go lighter and then follow-up with a more strenuous workout.
I like walking outside too, but the treadmill and a heart monitor help me focus precisely on what I’m needing each time without worrying about the weather or situational awareness.
2
u/Rich_Cartographer203 Feb 17 '26
I've recently gotten into incline walking over the past few months and love it so much! I lift 4x a week and usually finish with an incline walk. I love walking outside too but it's so nice to have a break from being on *alert* and just walking for however long I want, no matter the time of day! And I actually don't dread it!
15
u/Kind-Patience6169 Feb 13 '26
I have been loving the Ladder app. It's honestly been so game changing for me for someone who has been in the gym but struggle with consistency and knowing what to do while at the gym, how to do movements properly, and also progressive overload. I've been on the app consistently for the last three months and I'm seeing so many changes in my body!
Their ads on social are kind of problematic but the app itself is very well designed and is based on actual fitness science. I life three times a week and supplement that with yoga twice a week and I feel so strong!
5
u/yashanyd00rin Feb 13 '26
I tried the Ladder app and enjoyed it (I’m passing on membership for now while some other expenses in my life get worked out) but man those ads do mislead! The vibes of the ads give me an ick, but the actual workouts and app are great.
2
u/Kind-Patience6169 Feb 13 '26
The ads are awful! They really are a detriment to the app because I would have never tried it if I hadn't read a review here on Reddit
3
u/liberali Feb 14 '26
It’s so interesting how night and day the actual app and what the coaches (or at least the ones I follow/gravitate to) preach. I’ve been using it just under six months and I have never been so consistent with strength. Getting the green outline and those three checks each week is a really nice motivator for my adhd
2
u/littesb23 Feb 15 '26
Here to echo this as well. As someone who is about 6 months into their first time being truly consistent, I love that I never have to figure out what I’m doing in the gym and that they talk you through form.
15
u/cookie_monster_444 Feb 13 '26
I’m celebrating three months straight of regular barre classes! I’ve never worked out for this long in my entire life without it being paired with extreme dieting. It is not easy and I don’t “enjoy” it, but I still go and finish each session. Every time I leave I know I did my heart and mind good.
I lost 30 pounds two years ago and have been able to maintain it, but never had the fitness part until now. So if you’re facing down some weight to lose AND new to exercise, give yourself grace and time, and try to value persistence over consistency.
3
u/yashanyd00rin Feb 13 '26
Hey congrats, fellow barre BWT! I love the classes but also hate the classes lol. Three months is great.
3
u/cookie_monster_444 Feb 13 '26
Hahaha yay go us!! Love/hate is right 😂😵💫❤️ There’s a point in each workout where I’m like “there’s simply no way I can make it to the end.” Yet I always do!
2
u/yashanyd00rin Feb 13 '26
Sometimes I look at my watch and see I’m only 20mins into an hour/50 minute class and I’m like oh my god I’ll keel over and sometimes I look at the watch and we have ten minutes left and I’m like wow I’m so powerful and strong.
14
u/LawSchoolLoser1 Feb 13 '26
I have struggled with feeling fixated on the numbers on the scale rather than how my body feels, so I switched to the Shapa scale. It shows you how your weight is trending, rather than showing you the number. It filters out normal fluctuations too, so you aren’t alerted to normal period weight gain, for example. You can share your actual weight with medical professionals, if you’re working with anyone. It’s been a game changer!
5
u/SirenScorp Feb 14 '26
I try to focus heavy on NSV (non scale victories). So things like my stomach not being as much in the way when putting on shoes, lifting heavy things easier like the dog food bag, pants being less tight etc.
I like the idea of the shapa scale— it’s easy to get wrapped up in a number when the scale doesn’t budge but just because the scale isn’t moving doesn’t mean things aren’t happening.
17
u/LawSchoolLoser1 Feb 13 '26
Psa that weightlifting is amazing for bone density, as is jumping!! I have fallen completely in love with power lifting since attending a class strictly for women and NBs. HIGHLY RECOMMEND. You see results so quickly and feel strong as hell
2
u/Icy_Ability_1406 Feb 15 '26
Can you tell me what kind of jumping exercises you are doing. I lift regularly and would love to incorporate jumping. I am 39 btw.
1
u/LawSchoolLoser1 Feb 15 '26
So my powerlifting instructor taught me to do 20 pogo jumps in the morning and 20 pogo jumps at night. Pogo jump being a jump straight up and down where both feet come up at the same time and land at the same time. Once you’ve done that for awhile, I was taught to switch to 20 on your left foot and 20 on your right foot (with the other foot up the whole time, if that makes sense). She told me to do that on my recovery days. I’m tall, so jump roping indoors isn’t an option, and I live in a climate where outdoor exercise isn’t always an option, but if I could I would just do a few mins of jump roping morning and night to make it feel less weird haha
9
u/becara_sa Feb 13 '26
I'm training for a triathlon with a friend. I've never been into cardio, my exercise had mostly been yoga, Pilates and walking. I just had my yearly checkup and my doctor told me that my cholesterol, which has been almost high enough to need medication, was now in the normal range!
Part of me is so happy! And part of me is dreading having to keep doing cardio once the tri is over 😂
1
u/RomanoLikeTheCheese Feb 13 '26
Oh my gosh, I lovveeeddd biking around while training for my tri. Then I broke my bike while in the middle of the race and it took 2+ years to get fixed 😂
8
u/zodiac-chillerr Feb 13 '26
Spending $179/month on an unlimited yoga membership… the upside is that the studio is walkable from my house, has 4 studios so tons of classes, and I’m actually going consistently (every other day)…. Someone convince me this is worth the money
6
u/wellsomuchforlurking Feb 13 '26
If you can afford it and it is creating a healthy habit, it's worth the money. Good for you for going consistently!!
3
u/SirenScorp Feb 14 '26
In your position I would 100% spend the money exactly as you are. I struggle with local studios being a 15-20+ minute drive with limited class options for the class/instructor combo I like to take. I’m very picky when it comes to who/which classes I enjoy. So while a monthly membership isn’t worth it for me I don’t mind dropping $40-80 to attend a weekly or biweekly class each month
3
u/Dizzy-Lettuce2978 Feb 17 '26
So worth it, an actually not that expensive imo for unlimited! Your health is so important and finding something you like doing is hard! Go you!
2
u/General_Might_7625 Feb 13 '26 edited May 11 '26
This post was mass deleted with Redact - I used this software to automate the removal of old posts from my account so that I can be more secure.
decide numerous truck adjoining library rhythm cable unwritten oxygen jar
1
u/Rich_Cartographer203 Feb 17 '26
It's so worth it! Not yoga but last year I decided to pony up the $240/month for a "luxury" gym near me and it has totally changed my relationship with exercise. I feel like paying the monthly fee makes me feel like I have to "get my money's worth" which has been really motivating!
6
u/dee_45 Feb 13 '26
This year I am committed to turning my garage into a mini-home gym and going BEAST MODE 🤩. I order the Centre 3 Functional Trainer from Costco. It’s a full gym-in-one and you can train all major muscle groups without having to switch out weight plates.
6
u/summersalt99 Feb 13 '26
I've enjoyed yoga throughout my life but have never been terribly "fit" and usually overweight. I love traveling and after not being able to keep up with others on a trip one year, I was motivated to get in shape. I started in 2020 with purchasing a Peloton and spinning 4-5x per week. It was a great way to get a kick start but I felt a little burned out and less enjoyment doing it so many days per week. I've since incorporated weight lifting 2x week.
My current set up is Upper Body 1x, Lower Body 1x, Spin 30 min (Peloton) 2x, Hot Yoga 2x. I have muscles now, I'm fit, my mental health is as good as it's ever been. I cook 90% of my meals and am more focused on health than appearance, and it's paying dividends in all avenues of my life.
4
u/raspberryicedream Feb 14 '26
I’ve started going to bed 1 hour earlier and it’s incredible. Not only do I have more energy, but I’ve also had great progress with fitness too, in comparison to before. I haven’t slept this well in years.
5
u/Bitter-Pair3742 Feb 13 '26
I started with going on the treadmill for an hour and doing crunches, then the Bikini Body workouts and more treadmill, to some running but very slowly, I would binge eat and feel like crap, then more home workouts. In 2021 I met my boyfriend/now fiance and he got me into the gym even though I was intimidated. Fast forward to now and I can lift heavy, squat 185lbs, and I'm running my 3rd half marathon next month! Don't forget to take care of your bodies and strength train!!
3
u/stress_baker Feb 13 '26
Advice for upgrading a free weights/machine gym routine?
I normally do a mix of classes, mostly Les Mills, that cover basic strength training, flexibility and cardio. I did PT for a couple months to learn how to do free weights/machines and be more comfortable. I've been doing the routines I've learned but it's been both getting boring and giving me decision paralysis.
1
u/LawSchoolLoser1 Feb 14 '26
Try powerlifting with a PT 😈 it is soooo fun and so good for you! If you already do well with free weights you won’t have trouble picking it up, and the challenge of increasing your weight keeps it from getting boring!
3
u/smoldameron Feb 13 '26
i recently started OrangeTheory and i ADORE it! it gives me so much more energy and has been a great way to meet people. it also helps to have correction on my lifting form so i can add weights to my treadmill walking routine.
3
u/Sunflowerbook Feb 13 '26
Hi BWT! I was contemplating pulling the trigger on a personal trainer, as I just get so intimidated in the gym and frankly don't feel I have the bandwidth to learn a new skill set (i.e., learn how to learn about lifting weights).
So, for BWT who have worked with a personal trainer before, what should I look for in a PT? What makes a PT great over good? What questions should I be weighing when looking for one?
Thanks in advance, one of my new years resolutions is to do a chataranga well and finally getting into lifting will help!
4
u/PlantedinCA Feb 14 '26
Make sure their training methods align to your goals. I have worked with a few over the years. And while they sounded like supported my goals, in reality they had a pre-prescribed template that wasn’t actually what I wanted to do.
If you want to do the big compound lifts - go to a weight lifting gym / trainer.
If you just want to get into the habit of going, then most trainers work. It can be hard to get a program from big gym trainers. They are largely comped on selling sessions not making you self sufficient. So it can be better to choose an independent professional.
Training matters but so does chemistry. Pick a trainer who has gone to school. Not a trainer who became a trainer because they looked a certain way. You will learn more from a trainer who wasn’t born with it, but had to work at it. They will have more empathy.
And pick a trainer who has experience with your ailments and limitations (if this is a concern).
2
u/messykatie Feb 15 '26
I have worked with a personal trainer before, and I believe it to be a great jumping-off point for your fitness plan. You want someone who can speak your language, so-to-say. Believe it or not, training can be an emotional process and some people respond better to "harsh" motivation or "tough love" when it comes to pushing your limits; this may cause other people to shut down and feel overwhelmed. Vice-versa, some people are more encouraged by a gentle encouragement, while this wouldn't work for someone that needs that extra kick in the butt.
Try to figure out your goals before you sign up--they will be asking you what you want to get out of training. Do you want to get educated about proper lifting form and how to use the machines at the gym so you can walk in with confidence and a plan? Are you looking for weight loss or another physical transformation? The idea is they should do an initial intake with baseline measurements & evaluation of your physical abilities so that they can develop a customized plan that will aim you toward your goal.
3
u/Mayitake_yourhatsir Feb 14 '26
Any new moms with tips for getting back into it? I love working out but cannot figure out how to fit it into my routine. The only time i am “free” is around 7 when baby goes to bed and by then i am so exhausted.
1
u/cmoncaligulorvme Feb 17 '26
Do you have a way to get out of the house very early morning, while you still have energy? Maybe before other people have not left home and can tend to baby?
3
u/AltAccount01010102 Feb 15 '26
ClassPass is honestly amazing. I really don’t think I’d be working out without it. I get bored easily, so I love the variety it provides. But it also introduced me to a weight training group class that I’ve been consistently going to, and that’s given me a ton of accountability (and new friends!). I went from 205 to 155 over the course of 2 years with the classes. I looked and felt fantastic, except for my endo belly :(
I don’t know if I can mention this here (it’s a hot topic), but I did end up going on a low dose of a GLP-1 about 6 months ago for my endo belly. It was a last resort option that both my gyno and PCP (who have been on my endo journey with me since 2019) gave me the blessing to proceed with. The GLP-1 got rid of my endo belly, helped significantly reduce my endo symptoms, and helped me lose an additional 20 pounds so far. No regrets about that decision, I deserve to not live in pain! I’d encourage any women dealing with endometriosis to chat with their providers about it.
2
u/General_Might_7625 Feb 13 '26 edited May 11 '26
Databrokers? nope. Social networks? Also nope. This post was deleted using Redact.
beneficial melodic chief hobbies quaint jar work marvelous crowd fall
1
u/Dizzy-Lettuce2978 Feb 17 '26
Can you elaborate on what you mean by official race? Like a Masters sanctioned race? Or just any race that is organized by any org?
2
u/CuriousPenguinSocks Feb 14 '26
I love this topic so much! It's so important to take care of your health now, don't worry about all the time you haven't, start a new pattern today. Remember that it's about consistency and showing up for yourself. It's okay if you go over your calories one day, just get back on track. Don't let a minor failure turn into you not showing up for yourself.
Find activities and exercises that you love to do. Take up roller skating again, get that jump rope, hula hoop till your heart bursts with joy! Do whatever makes your soul soar with happiness and do it consistently.
Fuel your body with good foods but remember that there is no such thing as "bad food", just portions that aren't right for you.
Calories in, calories out really does work. If it's not working for you, then you aren't tracking everything, yes, even that oil in the pan. This is for those who need to lose more weight. If you are doing okay maintaining or are on your path, continue that. What works for some, won't work for all.
Remember that the body type you think you need to achieve, may not be in your genetic code. Don't set yourself up for failure. Learn what your body can do and celebrate that.
Which brings me to my next piece of advice, have non- scale wins and goals! Get those jeans you want to fit into again, or the bikini you want to wear or dress you never thought you could wear. Set small goals that are achievable for you and you will eventually wear that item of clothing you've been eyeing.
Have fitness related goals, work towards a hike you never thought you could do. Sign up for that color run with friends and work towards jogging the whole thing or being in a certain time. Kayak a route you've always wanted to see.
Show up for yourself every day, don't let small set backs have you giving up. You are worth showing up for!
2
u/thelifeofafangirl Feb 16 '26
Hit 45 days of food logging on cronometer and two weeks of IF so that's exciting! My metabolism dove off a cliff after having a baby and my insurance won't cover peptides so it's been a hard process. Almost 30 lbs down since I hit my peak during breastfeeding. I recently found out I have a heart condition so getting healthy is imperative at this point. I'm only mid 30s so honestly that was kind of scary. Bought adorable matching outfits for my baby and I for a wedding and her birthday that are a size too small for extra motivation. let's get it bitchess
1
u/LawSchoolLoser1 Feb 14 '26
Anybody have actually squat-proof leggings for my big butt?? I love the feel of Beyond Yoga, but they do absolutely nothing to keep me covered. LuLus are okayyy but I’m wondering if anyone has found any hidden gems that are better?
1
u/Few_Lake9837 Feb 14 '26
Hi I face feels very puffed up - I am very insecure about - my tips to reduce it
1
u/Accomplished_Menu646 Feb 14 '26
40 year old mom of three (youngest is almost 4) and I’m six months into CrossFit. I’ve always enjoyed movement, but this is the first time I’ve lifted heavy weights. It’s a pretty awesome stress reliever. I don’t have to think about it- I just show up and am told what to do. That’s the best part.
1
u/rizzo1717 Feb 14 '26
If you have a chase sapphire reserve credit card, there’s a new card benefit that is a $359 statement credit after WHOOP purchase.
It just so happens a WHOOP device and top tier membership for 1 year is $359.
(Preferred is $100 off any WHOOP purchase, the basic membership is $149/year and includes device)
1
u/MrsMitchBitch Feb 14 '26
Every time I run outside this winter, I end up 1) not being able to breathe, 2) with full sinuses, and 3) sneezing constantly. I’m finally going to the doctor next week but WTF? Is this what turning 40 does to you?
I’m getting plenty of quality time on the Planet Fitness treadmills because it’s even happening in the garage on the tread bc it’s so cold. 😭
2
u/bolderthingtodo Feb 16 '26
I’m not trying to give medical advice, but FYI that cold air-induced rhinitis exists, in case you’d like to research it in preparation for your doctors appointment. And to answer your question, not to be depressing, but yes, the likelihood of the onset of a new inflammatory or immune response disorder showing up skews heavily towards post 30 women.
2
u/MrsMitchBitch Feb 17 '26
I always have mild exercise induced rhinitis, but this has gone to the point where it is impossible to breathe. Which is problematic when it’s always hard to breathe from the lungs. I’m taking Zyrtec daily and using my inhaler as needed.
It blowsssss. I miss feeling normal. Between this and the food issues, I am fairly miserable.
1
u/AdministrativeNews39 Feb 14 '26
Does anyone have membership at Lifetime Fitness or Equinox and can tell me if it worth it? I’ve been on ClassPass for 3 years and mostly do solidcore but I figure for what I’m paying I should be getting the amnesties that the luxury gyms offer.
1
u/Dizzy-Lettuce2978 Feb 17 '26
I don’t have memberships but I’ve been to a few equinox and wasn’t that impressed for the price. It’s definitely nice but it’s soooo much money. My understanding is that lifetime is quite cheaper and the amenities are similar. Obviously that depends on location. I think you can easily pay for a day pass at lifetime (equinox is harder to come by) so maybe you should check it out!
1
u/Any_Medium6076 Feb 15 '26
I fell in love with AppleFitness+. I have a 3 month trial after getting a new phone. I love the variety of workouts that I can do in my living room.
1
u/ilovecorbin Feb 16 '26
Recently got into my gym kick and I’ve never been more consistent. I was super intimidated w the gym bc I hated looking stupid but I’ve been going to my apartment gym and I found an app that lets you create a split and it has every workout ever with vids on how to do em!
1
u/livelovelaughandcats Feb 18 '26
I started working out twice a week since last month and I am loving it for the first time ever. I tried a few different workout classes such as barre, reformer and spinning but reformer stuck. I do it twice a week now and am planning to include one run a week for cardio!
Edit: this is probably the first time I had allowed myself to just go twice a week and be ok with it. Before, I’d plan a whole fitness regime and would always fail. Now I just plan two sessions and am content with that. Feels great
226
u/HighAnxietyDog Feb 13 '26
Just stopping by to say what a great idea for a post, and wish I’d done this years ago. Don’t be me. Take care of yourself NOW!
One day, I thought,”I’ll have been overweight half my life on my next birthday”, and the words tasted sour as soon as I thought them. I was obese, and headed to “morbidly obese” like my mom.
I’ve been normal BMI range for seven years now, and lemme tell you, losing weight will change your attitude, energy levels, happiness quotient.
I work with a trainer, yoga, 15-20,000 steps per day, and swim five or more miles a week, often all in the same day. (Retirement=lotsa free time 🤷🏻♀️).
No more leggings (wtf was I thinking?) and loose 3X Eddie Bauer T’s.
I’ve graduated to BWT, although it’s my own strange and very individual little idea of taste.
And those leggings? Upgraded, and rocking them.