Hey folks. It's time for the December addition of the monthly fitness challenge. For those of you unfamiliar, the goal is to set a specific fitness goal for yourself, and then go for it. The goal should be specific and measurable, so that you can keep a running log here toward your progress. Some common goals are xxx miles run/walked/bicycled over the course of the month....xx hours on the elliptical, stationary bike..... xx workouts per week or xx hours spent exercising per week. Whatever you want, so long as it is specific and measurable.

Start off by introducing yourself and stating your specific goal...then come here each day or as often as you'd like and update your progress for the month.

The whole point is to set a goal that is slightly above your comfort level....one you have to push yourself a little to achieve. But whatever your goal, the success will come for reaching for it....whether you make it or not is irrelevant. We all have setbacks...we get sick, injured or just plain busy. If that happens, don't give up. Just amend your goal and continue on till the end of the month. This challenge will carry is right into the new year and hopefully by the time it's over all of us will be breathing easier and feeling better from the activity.

Ok....I'll start. My goals for December are to run 120 miles, swim 9000 meters and do 1500 walking lunges.

So, how long did you all wait after surgery to start weight training and cardio? I'm a week out and have only been told not to lift anything over 25 lbs and to walk as much as possible.

Also, did anyone check with previous doctors prior to beginning an exercise regime? I've had spine fusion surgery and am weary of getting a trainer that will cause more harm than good.

Thanks!!!

So, how long did you all wait after surgery to start weight training and cardio? I'm a week out and have only been told not to lift anything over 25 lbs and to walk as much as possible.

Also, did anyone check with previous doctors prior to beginning an exercise regime? I've had spine fusion surgery and am weary of getting a trainer that will cause more harm than good.

Thanks!!!

Hi Mary. I was told not to lift weights for 6 weeks, partly because I had hernia repair when I had my sleeve. I was allowed to start doing light cardio at 2 weeks.

If you hire a trainer, I would be sure to question him ahead of time and make sure he (or she) understands what your injury is and what steps need to be taken to avoid aggravating it.

Now, now, Butter...that's just a naked lady looking for some fun!! ;-P

Sign me up.

I don't care what fiddle says, her form is perfect.

ok, so I've missed posting for a couple of days, but I haven't skipped doing my walking or classes. MTD-42 miles 6 yc, 4SS, and up to a 25 s plank, I hope to beat my original goal of 30s for the plank, will just have to wait and see.

Come on GG, you can do it, I saw your dress up pictures for Thanksgiving, you are look'n fine, got to keep that form up!! Go get'um!!

I'm really struggling to get back into this. I had almost a week where I really didn't have the time or opportunity to do much of anything. Then I had a day or two where I was sore and tired. Today however, I really need to get back it and I just can't seem to make myself do it. I haven't planked, crunched, nothing. Having to fight with myself. Hate that.

Sign me up. I don't care what fiddle says, her form is perfect.

Hah!! I'm sure you think so ;-P

Edited December 11, 201312 yr by ReDbEaN

30 min MMA

I walked 3.5 miles today and did my ab crunches in Gamegirl's ab crunch challenge.

Edited December 11, 201312 yr by ribearty

</blockquote> <br> Hi Mary. I was told not to lift weights for 6 weeks, partly because I had hernia repair when I had my sleeve. I was allowed to start doing light cardio at 2 weeks. <br><br> If you hire a trainer, I would be sure to question him ahead of time and make sure he (or she) understands what your injury is and what steps need to be taken to avoid aggravating it.

Thanks for the advice. I also had a hiatal hernia removed so I'll be sure to consult with my Dr. on a date when I may begin lifting. As for cardio, I think two weeks is great!

I got so busy changing out a shower faucet (what a NIGHTMARE) that I almost forgot to post my workout this morning.

LEG DAY

3 sets of 20:

Step-Ups to a 18" bench (each leg)

Kickbacks w/Heavy Versa Loop (each leg)

DB Calf Raises

Plie DB Squats

Lunges (each leg)

CORE

3 sets of 20 decline crunches

3 sets of 20 VKR

3 sets of 20 hyperextensions forward, left and right with 25# plate

CARDIO

30 minutes on the StairMaster

Another 7.5 mile run....this time in the trails. MTD 38.3

Day 8 Insanity: 8 days and this is the first day that sweat has poured off of me, a good sign? But I am so tired as I type this my arms are quivering. Also did 3 planks at about 25s each. I am so tired that if there was an alternate way of breathing, I would do it.

As of last night I am at 39.55 miles. Today I am going to start some strength training. I think I will wait on that til after work. The weight station is in the garage and it is 27 degrees right now. Yep...after work it is.

And thank goodness no nekkid planking in the snow for me....wow...I won't even discuss the dangers of that one for a guy!

And thank goodness no nekkid planking in the snow for me....wow...I won't even discuss the dangers of that one for a guy!

Oh PLEASE discuss, I have no idea what you could be referring to ;-P

Monday Ran 1 1/2 miles. It was pouring raining. Total 13 miles for the month. 1s plank. Although it has been 6 months after plastic surgery, I could not do it. I will make my goal 10 push ups a day instead of planks.

3 set 10lbs biceps and triceps.

Yesterday my darling little Sweeptees, and Mr. Sweetpee came home starving. Cooked a soup to warm us up. I did not run at all