I gained 20 pounds over the weekend. It was my choice to put on the weight and I’m glad I did. I’m also relieved that I lost the weight the same day. Do you want to know my secret? Altus. What is Altus? He’s my husband’s new workout buddy. No, he’s not a personal trainer; Altus is a 20-pound weighted vest. I’m talking about the thing like he is a real person, but once you spend all afternoon with him, like we did this past weekend, you quickly learn that he is more than just a weight-training workout.
Parish has been working out with the vest at our local gym for a few weeks, but decided it was time for Altus to see the Big Dam Bridge. We set out on a beautiful Sunday morning and walked the mile from the parking lot to the entrance of the Bridge. The bright sun followed us the whole time and at times, felt like it was sitting on our heads. I was excited about trying on the vest and getting an intense workout. My wish was granted and I’m still sore from the whole experience. Due to the heat and lack of training with Altus, I took it easy. Adding 20 pounds to your body can be tough on your knees and feet. I will think about how the extra weight felt next time I wander into the snack room at work or the bakery at the store. Talk about motivation!
Parish and I switched wearing it a few times on the River Trail, and I wore the vest when we got to the halfway point on the mile-long bridge. Then my loving husband ran me through a squat and step up routine that made my legs feel like burning Jello. It was great! During the week, I’m usually sitting behind a computer or in my car driving to an interview or event. On the weekends (and after work) I really enjoy exercising and trying new ways to burn calories.
We covered about three miles during our day at the Bridge and River Trail. It was so nice to have some uninterrupted time with Parish. We left cell phones in the car, my iPad at home and just spent time talking, walking and sweating. The only really hard part of the walk was when we headed back to the car. My legs were cramping and I was thirsty. The bottle of Powerade we brought was warm and I kept seeing big ice cubes in the distance. After what seemed like seven hours, we arrived back at our starting point, and I was so relieved to see Miss Pearl (my car).
Lunch was a must, and we eventually decided on Quiznos. Before I ordered my sandwich, I asked for a cup, promising to pay for a drink and headed to the beverage station. Even though I wanted to stick my head directly under the raspberry lemonade spout, I put ice in my cup first and then proceeded to the lemonade container. I just stood there and drank the entire contents while Parish ordered his meal. I honestly didn’t care about the carbs; I just wanted to drink until I floated out the door. Thankfully, I eventually reached my fill of fluids and placed my order. I was hungrier than I thought and even ordered a cookie. I gained and lost 20 pounds in one day – I deserved it.