On Preparing For A New Exercise Regime

[danieldwilliam]

I am about to embark on a programme of weight loss, cardio-vascular fitness and general toning up.

By far the most important element for at the moment is losing some weight. It’s the most pressing issue and one that proves pernicious in my family.

I intend to measure myself and report back here on a weekly basis.

I’ve purchased a cross trainer which I intend to use for half an hour most nights a week. I’ll be adopting a low GI diet (mostly).  I hope as the increased exercise and diet have an effect and I being to lose weight and gain cardio-vascular fitness I’ll be able to add different types of exercise.

I’m looking at a range of metrics – BMI, weight, waist, hip.

Does anyone have any good advice on what metrics to include in the measuring and which ones are not helpful?

I’m pretty happy with the diet I’ve chose, I’ve used it before.

I’m open to any advise on types of exercise that might work.  There are some limitations. My knees, ankles and feet are not in great shape. Specifically at the moment but more generally. So I tend to be wary of high impact sports. Jogging is right out. I prefer taking exercise as part of a social activity than on its own.  I don’t have lots of time to spend outside the house unless I take the Captain with me.

If anyone can work out how I can measure my body volume there is a prize.

Comments

[danieldwilliam.livejournal.com]

A body fat measure is a good shout. Even if they aren’t massively accurate what I’m looking for is a) a relative improvement over a twelve month period b) being able to see the improvement as a tool for motivation.

I might well turn to Beeminder once I’m up and running and the excitement of a new project has worn off a little.