For many years my exercise was walking or biking to town (for work, dinner, etc...), which is about one mile, walks in the park with my husband after work, and dance class two times a week (ballroom one day and ballet the other). Then, in October 2008, I started a new job that required me to commute half-time and travel frequently. I also (for some unknown reason) agreed to be on several boards and committees. All of this meant that, on most days, I was not walk/bike commuting into town for work, I was getting home too late to go for walks with hubby (most days I wake and get ready for work around 5 or 5:30 and get home 7:30 and often later if I have a meeting), and I had to drop out of my dance classes. It has been a tough year. I've gained about 15 pounds. Plus, the lack of movement has depressed me a bit. Now, that I'm getting more control of my life (trying to limit my commuting days, saying "no" to requests for board/committee commitments and leaving when my term ends), I'm trying to integrate movement back in. I've started dancing again in February. Once it warms up above the teens, I'm going to try to walk again in the evening. I'm trying to be more committed to walking/biking to work and to town for dinner or shows.
All of this was really effective for me in controlling and not worrying about my weight. I'm not an exerciser, but I love movement. I love being outside and listening and watching the birds. I love to dance. I am also a foodie (locavore/Michael Pollan-style), so the combination of loving to eat (albeit good, seasonal food) and not moving really caught up.
Little-by-little, I hope to drop some of this weight...
