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I'm 60 years old and a male standing at 6' and 285 pounds. I have exercised very little in my life and due only to some fairly active jobs have I not become morbidly obese. I suffer from sleep apnea and the muscle aches of too little exercise. I really want to start recreational walking but how does one get past the embarrassment of huffing and puffing during what should be a normal stroll for most? I have had friends volunteer to join but that seems even more embarrassing. i really would appreciate any thoughts from those who shared a similar perspective. Thanks!
All this is very new for you. A couple of sessions with a trainer to help you design a safe beginning workout routine could get you off on the best foot and avoid injuries. Do you have any potential health concerns? If you don't know, maybe check with your PCP before starting. It might help to find a quiet trail or residential street (or a time of day) to walk that doesn't attract many other walkers. The only person who might notice your huffing and puffing would be you. What about renting a treadmill and using it at home until you get past that difficult beginner phase?
Whenever I see someone large exercising I always think, 'good for them!'.
Don't let fear keep you from moving your body. Besides diet it is the most important thing you can do for your health.
Go slow, baby steps. No need to do more than you are comfortable with now. You will be amazed how quickly you become accustomed to exercise and how your body strengthens.
I agree, most people aren't paying much attention to you, or at least not thinking what you are thinking they are.
But scope out the route if you want--drive it and see how many others are along the route at a given time. It may feel vulnerable to walk through your own neighborhood. A park may feel more comfortable. Where I live, I avoid the riverfront and lakefront because it's filled with obnoxiously young thin people.
Get a nice workout playlist going and focus on your stride.
Check out your local animal shelter--they may have a volunteer dog walking program. No one cares what you look like when you have a dog with you.
I see morbidly obese people out huffing and puffing on the walking/biking trail everytime I'm on it. Literally, every single time. I never even give them a second thought, and think no different of them then someone jogging with no shirt on and having about 15% body fat.
I'd recommend ear buds, some iTunes, and do your thing.
Self doubt is holding you back. Build up your confidence and start small and grow from there. Start working on your personal development everyday. Ed Mylett is a good inspirational person to listen to.
There's no need for embarrassment. You've acknowledged that you have a problem and you're out there trying to fix it. Nobody is going to make fun of you for that.
Plus, as has already been said, when working out - most people are focused on the task at hand. They aren't paying attention to you or what you're doing.
If you're really embarrassed and can't get past it, get an elliptical and use it at home. The first couple weeks will feel pretty bad, but after that you can feel it making your whole body more agile and fit.
Meh. I wouldn't care really. I'd be more inclined to stop and start a conversation if I had the time and try to motivate you in some way. You huffing and puffing should be encouraged.
I wish you luck. Walk everyday dude eat less. Cut down the sugars!!!! I cut out the crap a couple of years ago and I lost 25 pounds in 18 months and it's staying off.
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