The cost of getting back in shape – Cardio edition

When I decided that I needed to get back in shape, I went back to the training program I used to do before (the Body-For-Life, by Bill Phillips). I did this program in 2002, after I already had passed my PhD comprehensive exams, but before I had completed my PhD. When I did it, of course, I tracked my caloric intake, I followed the rules to-the-T, and I quickly realized that I was consuming less carbohydrates than I needed. I actually felt stupid.

I’m not kidding! I have known for a while that, in order to perform our brain function, we need carbohydrates. I realized that since I wanted to work in academia, I was probably going to have to sacrifice and trade ‘looks’ for ‘brains’. But then I also realized that I didn’t need to follow the directions quite as closely. So, now what I do is I eat smaller portions, I balance my diet and I run 6 times a week, and swim 3 times. I also do some weight training.

So, here’s the breakdown of what I have spent in cardio training.

Flexipass for all Vancouver City Parks Board – $208.50 (6 months)
Towel, stainless steel water bottle and running gear I already had (water bottles make the best swag, just FYI)

So, per month, I’m spending about $35 in gym membership. Adding that to about $60 per month for the swim gear, etc and you’re already reaching $100 per month to get back in shape. OUCH. And that is without adding any special diet or anything. I better be in the best shape ever by summer!

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