Over the last 2 years of law school and bar study my physical well-being took a back seat which has also affected my mental well-being. It was so bad that my ski days last year were short and reserved to nearly all groomers because I just didn't trust my strength to avoid injury in most of my beloved terrain. Honestly, I nearly cried every ski day because it was just so disappointing. It also created a toxic blame cycle in my own head that has served as a barrier to doing anything.
Now that I've passed the bar exam, I have time to devote to the journey back to wellness. Many of you have seen me cycle through levels of fitness so I completely understand if you're rolling your eyes and thinking "here we go again..." because in all honesty, I am doing the same even through I know that I had plenty of reason for getting to this point. I need to get my physical strength and cardio fitness back and lose weight. I'm focusing first on the fitness and strength just because I'm overwhelmed with trying to do it all at once and the strength/cardio work will make for a better/safer ski season. I also know that as I start exercising more I naturally chose better eating habits.
To start off I am getting back on the bike. Both outside on the mountain bike (although keeping to gravel paths for the most part while I work back in) and the Peloton. I started hiking right after the bar exam to get ready for my trip to Chamonix and will continue that as well. I recognized that I just couldn't get the strength back with just these but I wanted to add something with less impact on my joints that plyometrics (saving the impact stuff for skiing) so I'm adding in reformer pilates and am really enjoying it. The studio I'm going to does a 30 minute intro class for free then requires 3 private lessons to help me learn proper technique, form, and how to use the machine before you can start doing group lessons. Let me tell you, the work on the core, especially that deep lower core is intense and effective. We are also working on leg, back, and arm strength. I've also always loved the way a good stretch feels and part of pilates involves nice deep stretches so that feels amazing.
Anyhow, I thought I'd start a thread to help keep me accountable as I get back to the physical body that I'm comfortable with and that allows me to do all the things I want to do.