When my husband reported -- yet again -- that he wanted to start exercising a couple of weeks ago, I did what any self-respecting wife who's heard it all before would do...I nodded, smiled and said, "Mmm hmm."
It's not that I didn't believe him, of course. It's just that, well, he often starts off with good health intentions, but isn't always the greatest at following through (I'm not picking on him -- I have my faults, too!). He's also got a demanding, stressful job and not a lot of free time. So I'm thrilled to report that for the past two weeks, he's walked every single day but one.
The secret to his success? Me!
OK, I can't take all the credit. But I've been going with him and it's been really nice. It's a bonus workout for me -- never a bad thing -- and it's also been a great time for us to talk about our days and our lives...a workout and a little marital bonding.
But back to me taking credit...
I like to think I've been an example of the power of exercise, both during my year with Shape and in the time since my column ended. I also like to think that by making time for our walk and showing our kids that it's time we enjoy together, we're teaching them that exercise doesn't have to be all about sweat and pain and going to the gym. They're also witnessing the power of exercise -- in just two weeks, he's got more stamina, he feels better, he's dropped a bit of weight and he says he's feeling much less stressed.
Our role-modeling seems to be working. Just last night, my 10-year-old asked, "Are we walking tonight?" Sometimes, we all go, sometimes just my husband and I go. But I love that as stressed out and busy as we can be, our nightly walk is becoming a welcome part of the family routine.
Thats really sweet. I love doing family exercising. Such good bonding time.
Posted by: Sagan | July 23, 2008 at 08:52 AM
I know Ive said this before but I CLING to this.
that rolemodeling can help.
in all facets of child rearing (and mainly NOT in the exercise realm but, as youve mentioned so articulately before, the body love)
Miz, who had no idea you and I shared the DISTASTE for mayo. I cant do it. in anything. full on gag reflex.
Posted by: MizFit | July 23, 2008 at 10:48 AM
It is good bonding time, Sagan. And it's fun, too.
MizFit, I'm all about the role modeling...except when it comes to mayo love ;-). I can't tell you how much I hate the very sight and smell of it.
Posted by: Dara Chadwick | July 24, 2008 at 08:11 AM