Saturday, March 6, 2010

Because I'm Worth It

I workout in grubby clothes. Clothes that I don't mind sweating in. Clothes I wouldn't wear out in public- aside from the gym (which is a private gym). Old, stretched out and shrunk up thin cotton t-shirts. Sweat pants that I've cut off to just below the knees. Old, too big (thank heavens), stretched out maternity yoga pants that I have to roll at the waist band to make them stay on. My shoes are a semi-investment. I usually only ever buy shoes at Payless or Target. I can't remember when or where I bought the sneakers I was wearing a year ago. The shoes I have now came from an actual shoe store that sells actual brands. I forget what brand mine are- but I sunk $50 into them. Which, for me, is a lot of money. But for sneakers- that's the lowest priced shoe I coud find. The only thing, besides those shoes, that I have purchased for working out- socks. I have good socks. With my new Healthier Me goals, with my healthy choices now being a priority... I feel like I'm ready to put my money where my mouth is! I've been working out in clothes that are big and baggy and old and used up. And I think that's an indicator of how I've felt about working out and being healthy. It's the same with food. Part of why I eat crappy snacks or meals- it's cheaper. I look for convenience, sales, cutting corners to save time and money. With a little effort, I'm proving the opposite to be just as true. I can eat lunch for $2 a day. Much cheaper than a fast food meal for $5- $6. Shopping at Trdaer Joe's so I am set with snacks and healthy choices- much cheaper than hitting the vending machine for hot chocolate and donuts every day. So maybe... maybe I deserve some "good" workout clothes. My first step? Shoes. I am putting effort and money into good running shoes. This weekend, I am going to The Running Company and will put my feet in their capable hands and come out with new running shoes that are exactly right for my weight, my feet, my gait, my pace. I'm not quite ready to give up on my cut off sweats and stretched out superhero t-shirts. They are comfortable and I do like having a Superman S on my chest or the Hulk- I feel a bit stronger. But when I see the workout section at Target, I won't scoot past at full speed. I'll start considering the sale racks. At the very least, I think I'm ready for a good sports bra instead of old cotton camis. It's time to get serious. Because I'm worth it. Photobucket

10 comments:

Mellodee said...

I've always held the view that if I look like a slug, I'll feel like one too! So you go ahead, kiddo, and get yourself something spiffy, comfy, and colorful. It will give you that girl power!!

Lori D said...

Good luck finding the right trainer shoe for you. Each premium brand is good but usually fit a particular foot. My narrow feet love Nike, and I just bought a pair of more expensive New Balance that fit perfectly.

Emily said...

The shoes are the best investment you can make and The Running Company is the best (that's the running group I belong to). Plus- when you take the time to invest in something like new running shoes- you get really serious about your goals because they are *REAL* shoes :)

Lisa said...

I agree with Emily about The Running Company. They treat your feet seriously and take the time to give you the right fitting shoe for what you want to accomplish.

You will feel so great with your new clothes and shoes! Good for you!

Garret said...

I agree with all you said BUT I think new clothes are important too. I think looking good give self-confidence which empowers....

Lori said...

When you're ready for clothes try tj maxx or marshalls. Lots of variety good prices!

Kori said...

Mmmm, maybe that will be my treat when I lose my first ten pounds-new shoes! :) I love the idea behind that, though.

Alison said...

I've just come around to the idea that having the best "tools" you can afford makes it easier to get really good results. I learned it from NPR's Splendid Table, and it was about buying kitchen equipment, BUT...I feel it should apply to shoes & workout clothes, too!

Plus, having made an investment will be additional motivation to make it worth the price!

Amy said...

I hear you about the cheap, crappy food. There is something about having "nice" workout clothes that make me feel better about exercising. Glad you're treating yourself. You are worth it.

Unknown said...

I got fitted for shoes last week...it seriously makes a big difference, and YES, you are worth it!