I started Essentrics/CS a couple of years ago. Wow was I out of shape in the ways that I didn’t even recognize until I got stronger. I had to lean on the kitchen counter to get dishes out of the dishwasher. (weak core/poor balance). I pulled myself up by using the church pew in front of me (poor core strength) with my hands (poor balance). I couldn’t reach up and get items out of the kitchen cabinet (loss of range of motion). I had stopped running up the stairs and had to walk up the stairs. At this time, I could still do 10 regular push-ups with no problem, so I thought I was ok and was getting “older”. Now I realize I was getting functionally weaker not older.
Doing Essentrics/CS daily, I am functionally fitter. Starting out I couldn’t believe I was struggling with a 23 minute workout. I was so happy when episodes were split, and I could get down on the floor. Not that I was better at floorwork, I was just happy to lay down on the floor. One day I got through the 23 minutes with an “I can do this” attitude versus “can I make it thru 23 minutes. I can reach further, my range of motion is better, as is my balance. My recovery is faster and I use it purposely for recovery after strenuous yardwork, walking or other exercises. Yep, it took me a while to master the 23 minutes, but eventually I got up to the one hour workouts and so will you.
Don’t get discouraged. Each day you are getting stronger!!!
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