Slow and steady

I started exercising a few days a week more than a month ago. I found that the days I did exercise my fibromyalgia symptoms would be less than the days I didn’t exercise. My goal originally was to do 1 mile at a time. I’m now able to do 2 miles every day. Last week I did 3 miles once. This week I am doing 3 miles twice to begin to increase my level of endurance.

I am feeling so much better already. As of today I’ve lost 8 lbs. This may not seem like a lot but this last week I’ve lost about 3 lbs so I know I’m doing something right. I’m being more cautious of my caloric intake as well as making sure I exercise daily.

My goal is to lose at least 50 (hopefully more like 70) lbs by next May. The overall goal is to relieve the symptoms of fibromyalgia through being more active and losing weight. My weekly goal is to lose 1-2 lbs. I know this is achievable but will be a slow process. For now I’m seeing results and I’m excited about a future that’s not ruled by how bad I feel.

I used to struggle to get up and down stairs, manage trips to the grocery store or do fun things with my kids. Yesterday I was able to do a 2 mile workout, go to the store with 2 kids, go swimming with the boys, make dinner, and do some light cleaning at home. In the past just doing one of those activities would have left me in pain or extremely fatigued and unable to function. Last night I was energized and alert at the end of the day. It is a drastic change and I’m so happy about being able to have fun with the kids and still do other things.

I used to think people were crazy when they said exercise was the best way to treat fibromyalgia. The more active I get the better I feel. I’m starting to think all that advice people and doctors were giving me about exercise was right.

I’m hoping to add some strength training to my exercise routine but first I want to be up to doing 3 miles a day. I will likely do 2 miles a day on the days I do strength training so that I don’t overdo it. I’m hopeful that these are changes I can keep long-term. I think the important part is finding out what exercise you enjoy and can tolerate, especially when battling chronic pain. I’m looking forward to more drastic changes in energy and weight in the coming weeks. I promise to keep you updated on my progress.