Motivate Me Monday - Walking with the Warrior Wagon


June 29, 2015

"I need to lose weight." "This summer, I'm going to do it." "Diet and workouts start Monday!" I know I have said these phrases over and over to myself the last few years and over and over have had the best intentions. Somewhere between a stack of workout DVD's and warm weather I finally found what works for me, Walking. Walking with hills, with a stroller to be exact. While it sounds too easy, sometimes I think we like to think it must be hard for us to see results, let me assure you that merely walking has its challenges but it works for me. I've lost 10 pounds in 2 months and so I keep walking. Once you get into a pattern that works for you and start to see results it becomes easier to stick with and slowly becomes a part of your daily routine. So while I understand it is 'just walking' and how hard can it be? Here is a glimpse at one of my everyday walks so you can see what works for me and possibly find something that works for you. Don't make losing weight and getting in shape harder than it has to be.

My Gym
The only time I am motivated to workout in an actual gym is in the dead of winter when that is my only option. Otherwise I have to be outside. Fresh air, views, and the ability to choose a different route everyday. As summer progresses I try to be out as early as possible before the day heats up.



Gym Buddies
At first my 'friends' here were a bit resistant to long stroller rides but as we continued to make it a part of our day they new what to expect. I also make it a point to have a destination in mind for them either midway through our walk or at the end. A park, duck pond, or just a new place for them to explore. It helps them get exercise as well and I hope I am teaching them good exercise habits in the process. Tip for Moms: the fluffy friends there below make the ride a bit easier.




My Equiptment
If you have kids with you, a good stroller can make all the difference in the world. After all you do have to push the thing. However, while some days I wish I had a top of the line fancy, new stroller, this used Craigslist find does the job for me. Sure the foam handles are coming off. One side was even taped back on with electrical tape. (Thank you for that previous owner.) It veers to the left on its own so I'm constantly moving it back to the right, and there are some tears in a few places. But it has pockets a plenty, the wheels roll nicely, and it has a moving top that provides shade for my littles. Best of all I didn't spend a fortune on it. So if you are looking for a stroller poke around the unconventional places first. Kid to Kid, Garage Sales, Craigslist, KSL, neighbors who have outgrown theirs. 








                  My Grab N Go Gear
Keep it all out and ready to go so you are not taking additional time to get ready in the am. Temps are climbing, little ones are yelling, and the longer you take to get ready the more time you have to talk yourself out of going. Your clothes, shoes, and shades should be within reach so you are out the door asap. I always bring; sunglasses, a hat, shorts and a tee are a must as are sunscreen and a water bottle. Good walking shoes are definitely a must have as well, invest in a comfortable pair.




My "Treadmill"
Start walking. Whether you have kids with you or not, choose a destination that is far enough away to give you a good workout. Include hills if you can. They are fantastic for toning.  Choose different routes to rotate through so you don't get bored with the same one each day. I find if I go in the morning I eat better the rest of the day so that that is what I do. Trying to keep kids busy in a stroller. Let them bring a small toy. Find lawn ornaments in peoples gardens and make names for them. When your kids are used to looking out for certain "friends" they are a bit more patient. Bring food and drink for them as well. Sing. Find things in the distance that are a certain color and ask who can see the color red. Let them tell you what they see that is red. Anything to keep their mind off the fact that they are not moving. 


My "Sportsdrink"
I know. I know. I have read the articles about how bad soda is for you. I know it is terribly dehydrating. I am making an effort to cut back. But, honestly some mornings after a long hot walk, Nothing. Tastes. Better. So every now and again this is my guilty pleasure; an ice cold Mountain Dew. I lack the self control to kick the habit totally at the moment, so for now I get a reward every now and again. :)



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