Intentional

I think I've blogged before about being intentional about exercise: ensuring I make time for it, keep track of it, and do it with good form so as not to hurt myself. There's also another thing I've realized recently about being intentional. When I intentionally and specifically focus on HOW I'm exercising, it makes a difference.

Specifically, recently, since all I can do is walk, rather than running, I have been very focused on using my muscles as much as possible while walking. So I don't just stroll along thoughtlessly. I've been walking for just under 38 years, so of course I can do it in a way that is completely brainless. Or, I can choose to really think about how my feet hit the ground, pushing off with my calves, activating my thigh muscles, squeezing my glutes, etc. as I walk. Even though I haven't been exercising nearly as much (in terms of calorie burn and workout length) for the last few days, I am continuing to lose weight (don't worry, not major amounts...still at a healthy pace). The fact that I'm still eating wisely (smaller portions is a major factor) also helps, of course. But I think I might be gaining or at least staying static in my weight if I weren't making an effort to ensure the muscle I've built this year stays with me during this time that I must walk instead of running.