Three weeks ago I went to the gym for the first time in more than a year. Since then I've thought about going back, but life has been busy. Today there was nothing on my calendar, and when I went to bed last night I made sure I put exercise clothes where I would see them when I woke up.
After breakfast I googled the two closest branches of the gym to find out how long it would take to get to each. I couldn't decide which direction to head in, so I decided to check out the group class options at each. I wasn't planning on acting on the information, but when I saw that an instructor I liked was leading a class I liked at a time that worked for me my decision was made.
At the gym, I walked in the entrance-only door that had a large sign stating that face coverings were required at all times, scanned my card, and picked up a ticket that allowed me to attend the class.The group class room had large pieces of tape on the floor to indicate where the equipment for each person should go.There were several people already in the room already, all masked and socially distanced. I took a spot along one of the walls so I would have fewer people around me, but by the time the class started the room was filled almost to capacity and there was still plenty of distance between me and the people around me.
The class was Step, which involved stepping up, around, and down from a raised platform in different patterns. The step itself is four inches tall, but there is an option to add additional risers (each an additional four inches). I started off with one set of risers, but that was too much; halfway through the class I took them off. The class started five minutes late and ended five minutes early so people could disinfect their equipment. The instructor modified the moves so that we were always right next to our own step.
Although I thoroughly enjoyed the class, I had underestimated how much
exercise it provided. I kept looking over at the clock and counting down
the minutes until the cool-down portion would start. At the end I was sweaty and winded. My mask was soaked from my heavy breathing, but I happy I made the time to take care of myself.
Did you get your shot yet Kathy?
ReplyDeleteNot yet, but the governor just announced that in early April there will be no age restrictions.
DeleteCould you go to a class for me too?
ReplyDeleteSure! Do you want aerobics or strength?
DeleteThat class sounds fun. I briefly did a step “dancing” class as a teen, sounds similar but without the rhythm.
ReplyDeleteStep classes were really popular in the 1990s.
DeleteI've considered going myself. A little more motivation. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteWe need to keep ourselves in the best possible physical shape.
DeleteSounds like you had a good safe workout. I love dance and for some reason step appeals to me in the same way dance does. I won't be going anywhere until I can get the vaccine, though, so it's home exercise for me.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy doing any physical activity to music.
DeleteGood for you! You are an inspiration for those of us who should be exercising more.
ReplyDeleteyes exercise does lot for the physical health and mental health as well dear Kathy therefore i i am doing it since more than 20 years ,i don't go gym though but my almost half hour yoga and evening walk still helps to stay fit ,i left my tough work out after gallbladder surgery
ReplyDeleteI need to incorporate more yoga into my routine. The last time I tried some poses I was amazed at how inflexible I was.
DeleteWell, you're getting back to it and good for you. This post makes me feel inadequate, like when I pass a jogger.
ReplyDeleteYour comment is interesting, because I perceive your cat-gathering as very physical work.
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