I thought my first post should give you a brief overview of why I am blogging and trying to get fit and lose weight.

The reason for starting a blog is for motivation.  I thought if I had to post and be accountable then it would spur me to get on with it.

I am 50 years old and weigh above the BMI guidelines by 1 stone 9 pounds.  I would like to get to about 11.5 stones.  I used to be this weight until I was about 45 when the weight piled on slowly.  I have high blood pressure which I am on medication for, although losing weight and exercise should help to reduce it.

I don't drink and I don't smoke.

I breathe heavy walking around our bungalow.  The hill up to where I work is a killer and if I walk quickly I gasp for air.

In April 2008 I had a TIA (mini stroke) and at the time I was a stone lighter than I  am now.  I decided then that I would make some lifestyle changes which unfortunately I didn't.  I have recently discovered that within the first 5 years after a mini stroke you  could have a full stroke.  Although the 5 years will be up in April the risk is still higher.  I was admitted into hospital in 2009 with chest pains, and was advised that I had been suffering from palpitations.

In April 2011 I suffered further chest pains and was admitted to hospital. The ECG was clear.  When I was discharged the consultant told me to exercise more.  I have not done this and I still eat rubbish such as biscuits, etc.

I now feel that my breathing is getting worse and it is time to do something about it.  I intend to lose weight and exercise.

I used to run when I was 24 and would run about 5 miles every other day.  At that age I was able to run a half marathon in 1 hour 41 minutes.

I am going to start running again.  This came about by a work colleague asking if I wanted to join a few of them in the Great North Run which they have completed a few times.  It prompted me to do something about it.

I am going to the gym for a mini induction on Tuesday and will then use the treadmill.  I do not work on a Tuesday so am planning on going every Tuesday, athough I need to do walking or something inbetween to get me to exercise 5 times a week for 30 minutes.  I have ordered new running clothing and a pair of decent running shoes.  I hope my running gear is delivered before then

It's not going to be easy after not exercising for years.  I am under no illusion that it will take time to build my fitness as I can only run for about 10 seconds before needing to stop or walk.

Regarding the Great North Run I would have to apply soon and then would have to wait to see if I am accepted.   I have never taken part in a race before.  I have almost 8 months to get into shape.  

 

That's a rather long first post and thank you if you have read it.  I have declared that I am going to do this and now need to make a start.