WLW: The First 30
by Scott Hardie on March 13, 2008

Since we're still putting off NutriSystem until our bank accounts recover from the move, Kelly and I have been focusing on exercise instead. So far it's mostly a lap around the apartment complex a few nights a week, saying hi to underdressed strangers walking their dogs. Last weekend we tried the mall. If you haven't been to Sarasota, let's just say it makes Naperville look like Cicero. Rich people paying hundreds of dollars for a pair of shoes they'll wear once; artwork priced at what you paid for your last new car. At least it keeps us from impulse buying while we stroll past.
Tonight we used the fitness center at the apartment complex for the first time, now that we've finally gotten the passcode, just to try it and see if we like it. It's mostly weight machines, which I'd gladly give up to make room for a single bike. I spent ten minutes on the treadmill at a low pace and burned a mere 30 calories, probably only one drink of soda's worth, but it felt good to make that first step. I feel like a business owner who frames his first dollar.
Three Replies to WLW: The First 30
Anna Gregoline | March 13, 2008
Good for you!
Jackie Mason | March 14, 2008
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Matthew Preston | March 13, 2008
Nice job, keep it up! The hardest part I've found with exercising is finding the motivation to start. The accomplishment of a completed workout is such a great feeling however.
You likely burned more than 30 calories though. Because calories are a measurement of heat, those machines aren't exactly the best calculators. Did it give you the option to enter your weight? Did you break a sweat? According to the online calculator I listed below, I would burn 121 calories walking briskly. Check it out (probably not the foremost in reputable counters, but a good place to start).
http://www.caloriecontrol.org/exercalc.html