Beating Diabetes

by Melva Pratts
(Largo, Fl.)

My toughest workouts are going on as we speak. I am a diabetic in hopes of getting in better shape by losing some weight and getting off insulin.

My doctor has informed me that perhaps if I would lose some weight, I might be able to live a better life and hope to get off insulin. This was enough for me to follow through.

I purchased a Total Gym, a trampoline, some cords and put together an exercise regime for myself. I started out on the Total Gym as a beginner, flat on the ground with no body weight to pull, push or glide with.

Even without body weight the workout was enough to break a sweat. I started with one set of fifteen reps of exercises.

I workout 6 days a week breaking it down as follows: Monday, Wednesdays, and Fridays – chest -back-shoulders, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays – biceps-triceps-legs. I have Sundays as a day off to rest.

I work my abs daily as this is the area on me that needs it the most. Every day I use the trampoline and jump anywhere from 500 times to 2500 times depending on my day's work.

I have become more energetic and look forward to working out daily. It is almost addictive to me at this point in time.

I have lost 10 inches over different parts of my body and only about 5 pounds. In order to remain positive I must remember that muscle weighs more than fat to keep focused and not become disappointed.

The best thing is I have bought smaller clothes to see if and when I can get into them, Today I tried on a pair of my skinny jeans, I buttoned them up, but, I still have that muffin top to get rid of.

I have given myself until the end of May to reach my goal, hopefully, I will.

Melva

Dear Melva,

It sounds like you are doing great. You set a very good example for others who need some exercise to improve their health.

Dr. Dan