Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Two Left Feet and a Cigarette







************I finally swallowed my pride and participated in a CardioSculpt Rotation (step-aerobics) class last Saturday at NorthPointe. I've only taken one or two step-aerobics classes in my entire life and I've felt like a fool every time.

My most recent venture was no exception. I was apprehensive as I drove to the facility, imagining myself tripping or falling down in the class. I got there early so I could claim a position at the back of the room. I've observed the classes which are held in the 2,000 square foot Group Exercise Studio (pictured above) from afar so I knew where the instructors always stand and thus where I should locate myself in order to be as inconspicuous as possible.

Today, Wednesday, is the first day since the class that I haven't felt soreness in my calves. In other words, I did have a good workout, although, I was quite frustrated during the one-hour class. Everyone, except for one other newbie and me, knew the routine and was really getting into the steps and moves. I was often going in the opposite direction from the rest of the group or just standing there, too confused to go left, right, forward OR back.

I'll do it again this coming Saturday, although I'm sure I'll feel like a fool again. I know it'll take me a long, long time to learn the steps and moves used in the routine. To complicate things further, I understand that two or three different instructors take turns leading the class and every instructor has her own techniques.

In spite of it all, I did enjoy the comraderie and encouragement my new class acquaintances offered me. Recently, I've been feeling a little lonely at times since I do the majority of my exercising on my own (except for yoga class) since I joined NorthPointe in November.

I definitely worked up a sweat as I attempted step-aerobics and I'll happily continue to trade my pride for that proof of effort.
*
As you may have noticed in the top photo, we all had a smoke before class started. (In this crazy world, that's almost believable, isn't it!)

14 comments:

Lia said...

Your braver than me, I have only done one class like that in my life.
When they went right, I was left, them up, me down, terrible, never ever again.
Any way it reminded me too much of physical Ed and I hated that.
Still it sounds like you had a good time and that's what counts.
Sorry you can't get that show, I just know you would have loved it. Although I think the book sounds great and want to read it as well now.
Much love
Lia
xx

Cheryl Peters said...

Lia: I picked up Lost Horizon at the library this afternoon and will read it ASAP. Thanks for the book recommendation.

Sarah said...

Good for you Shaddy! I'm so proud of you!!!! As you know, never in a million years would I have the courage to take a class like that so I'll have to live through your experience there. Looking forward to hearing about the next one. I'll bet you'll figure it out in no time dear.

Cheryl Peters said...

Sarie: Being in the back of the room helps alot!!

Anonymous said...

Auntie thinks if you would of previously taken Line Dancing lessons
you would of been one step ahead (get it?) The procedure sounds a lot like that. Once you get it you will love it.

Cheryl Peters said...

Auntie: I do get it! At least with line dancing there isn't a six-inch platform to step on and off along with the dance routine.

I agree that I'll love it when I know what I'm doing. I wonder how many packs of cigarettes I'll go through before I get the hang of it?! Cough. Cough.

Sarah said...

LOL!!! You're making me giggle :)

Cheryl Peters said...

Sarie: Yay! I love it when that happens!

Anonymous said...

My theory is, skinny girls created these classes to make the bigger girls look like fools. :)

Good for you! I always feel very intimidated when walking into classes like this, but i also have no coordination.

Cheryl Peters said...

dayner: Normally, I consider myself to be quite coordinated but this class was a challenge.

Natasha said...

Good for you! This NorthPointe place looks absolutely heavenly to me.

My 'gym' is either the local state park or the ocean. My 'personal trainer' is my hound dawg who needs a big run every day.

Annie said...

One of the many reasons, I am a in home exerciser. When I fall out of line or out of sync, it's okay because it's just me. Another reason I love home exercising? I drink ALOT of water during my workout and the bathroom is a hop away. In a exercise class, I would feel REALLY weird leaving. However, I do miss engaging with people. When I yell at the video instructors, they still smile, and continue on. It would be nice to have a reaction!!! LOL!!! Good luck Saturday!!!! And keep steppin!!!

Cheryl Peters said...

Natasha: It sounds like you've got everything you need!

Annie: Home exercising certainly works for you! I haven't yelled at an instructor yet; I don't think I will either. I suspect I would get a reaction unlike the constant smile you're used to.

Anonymous said...

I can't even relate to exercise. It has been so long since I've been allowed to do more than my stretches and walking. I would love to be able to go for a short jog, or toss a few weights around. I constantly remind my kids how lucky they are to have the ability to stay in shape and enjoy sporting activities. I hope they learn to appreciate it over time and take advantage of their youth and healthy bodies.