Jump to content
  • Welcome to the TransPulse Forums!

    We offer a safe, inclusive community for transgender and gender non-conforming folks, as well as their loved ones, to find support and information.  Join today!

I have REALLY let myself go....


Guest Robin Winter

Recommended Posts

Guest Robin Winter

So I've mentioned before that I was giving thought to military service... Well, I DID finally manage to make it to the recruiting office, where I discovered that all applications must be online now, but at least they gave me some information and talked it over with me. I didn't disclose that I'm a transgirl, but I suppose there's no question that I'll have to if I actually apply, since I can't hide from the medical tests :P

Anyway, one of the things I was particularly interested in are the physical fitness requirements. I really really really don't think I meet them. I tried doing push ups the other day and I discovered that I can't even do 10!!!!

The requirements for women are lower, and I suspect that the fact that I've been on hormones for over a year would be taken into account (I hope), but even if I do the 9 required pushups(womens requirement), there's no way I can meet the endurance requirements :(

I really need to find some motivation for getting in shape.. Well, no, what I really need is I way I can get into shape in my own home, I have no desire to exercise in public........

Any ideas for something that I can do just to ease myself into exercising slowly? I have some fitness videos for when I'm better acquainted with physical activity, but I'd like something a little less....aggressive...for starting out.

Link to comment
Guest Jade T

Hi Shilo as a former Army vet and Drill Sergeant, I have seen quite a bit of people trying getting into shape. No offense intended ^_^.

One of the easiest ways to improve PT that I advised to future and my soldiers was to do push-ups and sit-ups on the hour, every hour during your waking hours on weekdays. Right now, if you can only do 9 push-ups, try doing 5 push-ups every hour Monday's - Friday. You may be very sore by the end of the week. Next week on Monday try to see how many you can do non-stop. After that, try for half of that every hour on the hour. During the periods of exercise, if you are unable to continue, try doing them on your knees. It will help ease some of the load off of you. But remember, push-ups on your knees do not count in the PT test. Continue doing this and you will definitely see significant results in about a month =). I remember I did this method when I was in service to hit my goal of 100+ push ups to compete in a unit push-up competition. I still lost to someone who did 121 push ups lol.

I definitely understand what you mean about the hormones. I have ceased all weight lifting and upper body exercise about a year ago and started on hormones recently. Oh boy do I get tired so fast! However, if you out yourself as transgender in the military, it is grounds for a Chapter (getting kicked out) or a bar for enlistement. During my time in service, I did not have any bloodwork done that EVER tested my hormone level of any type. If you do decide to join the military, I doubt they would notice anything amiss if you chose to not share that information. You probably would want to stop taking the estrogen though to prepare for Basic Training. Though it is not as hard as it use to be, if your body is not use physical exercises and demands, it can be excruciating to some. If you get fit before you go to Basic, then the rest will be a cake walk. You just have to do what the Drill Sergeants tell you and you will be golden :) Hope that helps some

Hugs,

Jade

Link to comment
Guest Elizabeth K

My understanding - if you have that penis, you are considered a man in the military (IN THE USA). You need to verify that in Canada.

The military will literally mold you into a new person physically, if you pass the minimum standards to get in. It will probably be pretty brutal but it will get you where you want to be, I am assuming.

I am glad my days are over for that kind of thing (boot camp - US Army - summer of 1968 - Ft. Sill Oklahoma). I now fight my battles for a proper weight and physical conditioning in a gym. A gym is really not what you think - nobody sees you - everyone does their own thing. Perhaps you are thinking about a class or something as a group. THOSE are more public.

My suggestion? Find a gym - and start out on the treadmills, maybe the bike type exercisers - get your resistance to pain up so you understand about 'second wind' (that point AFTER you feel you cant go anymore). THEN work in an 'abs' machine (instead of the physical old fashioned sit ups) When you get your numbers and endurance up on he machine THEN do actual sit ups.

Baby steps.

And I assure you again? Nobody will really see you or even care. Get a set of earplugs and an IPod - tune out the world - do your reps - go back home and chill! Go every other day (and off Sunday) and always go w/o EVER thinking you will skip 'just this time.' Work on the heart rate (pulse rate) as much as on a losing of weight. Weight will come off naturally if you do right at 30 minutes. Don't do over an hour when you work up that high -you won't need it. Exercise combined with a reasonable diet - but the best part? You will start loving yourself again.

Lizzy

Oh girl exercises? Butterfly machine for muscles under your breasts, and abs (pulling in that girl tummy fat) and not much more except to tone any flab. I avoid almost all the leg muscle machines and especially the upper body exercise machines - guy stuff!

Link to comment
Guest otter-girl

Get a book on yoga. its such a good allround system. Start with wall pressups. Stand facing wall take a large step back and do them against wall. Seems easy at first but try 20. It wakes the muscles and soon youll be doing floor ones starting with one on day one only, then 2 on day two etc etc. If get strained rest. That way you actually proceed faster. Thats how i started years ago when doing martial arts.

Hugs

Rachel

Link to comment
  • Forum Moderator

You like gaming right? If you set an exercise bike up in front of the tv and rife it while gaming it can help you go longer faster. A good boss fight can cause me to pedal at top speed before I know it.

Don't game much right now because I really prefer hiking to gaming and have to chose but back when I was keeping in shape it worked well.

You have to find something you like and that makes you feel good in order for it to really work I believe,

I was just reading articles and stories about large weight loss and keeping it off and one thing I saw across the board was that those who continued an exercise they enjoyed to the same level after dieting-and the most common was walking-kept the weight off for years while those who dropped the exercise didn't. It's the most important thing I think,

Hope you find something you like that works for you

Johnny

Link to comment
Guest Robin Winter

However, if you out yourself as transgender in the military, it is grounds for a Chapter (getting kicked out) or a bar for enlistement.

I don't think that's necessarily true in Canada, though I imagine it would depend to some degree on the personal views of the people directly involved at the time. I do know that if you're in the military and you come out as a trans person, you are then kitted and treated as a member of your "target gender" (their terms), so I assume that they would consider me a woman in all respects when possible. The question I haven't yet been able to get a clear answer on is of course, whether or not disclosure prior to enlistment will have a negative impact on whether or not I'll be admitted. I just really can't see how I could get away with not sharing the information. I mean, I'm not porn star material of course, but I do have some rather noticeable breast development....and going off estrogen is simply not an option for me at this point, I won't do it.

My GT's opinion is that I should be up front and honest, because if they don't want me as I really am, it's probably not a good place for me anyway, and she's probably right.

Link to comment
Guest Donna Jean

My GT's opinion is that I should be up front and honest, because if they don't want me as I really am, it's probably not a good place for me anyway, and she's probably right.

Dang good point!

Dee Jay

Link to comment
Guest Elizabeth K

However, if you out yourself as transgender in the military, it is grounds for a Chapter (getting kicked out) or a bar for enlistement.

I don't think that's necessarily true in Canada, though I imagine it would depend to some degree on the personal views of the people directly involved at the time. I do know that if you're in the military and you come out as a trans person, you are then kitted and treated as a member of your "target gender" (their terms), so I assume that they would consider me a woman in all respects when possible. The question I haven't yet been able to get a clear answer on is of course, whether or not disclosure prior to enlistment will have a negative impact on whether or not I'll be admitted. I just really can't see how I could get away with not sharing the information. I mean, I'm not porn star material of course, but I do have some rather noticeable breast development....and going off estrogen is simply not an option for me at this point, I won't do it.

My GT's opinion is that I should be up front and honest, because if they don't want me as I really am, it's probably not a good place for me anyway, and she's probably right.

I agree - i seems being up front is the way to go.

Liz

Link to comment
Guest Robin Winter

You like gaming right? If you set an exercise bike up in front of the tv and rife it while gaming it can help you go longer faster. A good boss fight can cause me to pedal at top speed before I know it.

Don't game much right now because I really prefer hiking to gaming and have to chose but back when I was keeping in shape it worked well.

You have to find something you like and that makes you feel good in order for it to really work I believe,

I was just reading articles and stories about large weight loss and keeping it off and one thing I saw across the board was that those who continued an exercise they enjoyed to the same level after dieting-and the most common was walking-kept the weight off for years while those who dropped the exercise didn't. It's the most important thing I think,

Hope you find something you like that works for you

Johnny

The problem there is that I can't afford the equipment. I *wanted* to get an elliptical, I think I could enjoy that with my mp3 player, but I wasn't able to convince my wife it was a good idea, which is unfortunate, because we can get one disgustingly cheap if we get a refurb from the guy that services our building's gym equipment. Although, her reasoning at the time was that she wanted to get a new computer, and we have done that already....hmmm, might have to look into that again.

Link to comment
  • Forum Moderator

PEACE,

and love, Charlie

Link to comment
Guest Jade T

However, if you out yourself as transgender in the military, it is grounds for a Chapter (getting kicked out) or a bar for enlistement.

I don't think that's necessarily true in Canada, though I imagine it would depend to some degree on the personal views of the people directly involved at the time. I do know that if you're in the military and you come out as a trans person, you are then kitted and treated as a member of your "target gender" (their terms), so I assume that they would consider me a woman in all respects when possible. The question I haven't yet been able to get a clear answer on is of course, whether or not disclosure prior to enlistment will have a negative impact on whether or not I'll be admitted. I just really can't see how I could get away with not sharing the information. I mean, I'm not porn star material of course, but I do have some rather noticeable breast development....and going off estrogen is simply not an option for me at this point, I won't do it.

My GT's opinion is that I should be up front and honest, because if they don't want me as I really am, it's probably not a good place for me anyway, and she's probably right.

Ah I apologize, I assumed you were in the States and did not realize you are from Canada. I should of paid more attention to that. My advice was based on my experiences with the U.S military and knowledge that transgendered servicemembers are not allowed. After reading your perspective on being honest and up front with them accepting you for who you are or it may not be good for you, it makes perfect sense. I never thought of it that way. If I had applied that philosphy, I probably would of been in a much better state than where I ended up during my time in service. Hehe maybe I should of talked to a GT years ago and saved myself all the trouble and hearthache I am going through now.

Best wishes,

Jade

Link to comment
Guest Robin Winter

No apology necessary, I still really appreciate your advice, and I'm certain the bulk of it still applies. ^_^

Link to comment
  • Forum Moderator

Almost every pawn shop and thrift store has exercise bikes. Much cheaper than retail, people go out and buy them and after awhile get fed up with them because they end up just gathering dust. I think you can get one for like $20 or less often-not your elliptical unless you get lucky but maybe if your wife sees that you will really use it and how much stress it will take away as well she'll change her mind and let you get the one you want. Also be sure it;s one that fits as far as seat style. People vary a lot there. Makes a real diffefrence in how long you can or will ride too. I can't just liten to music because I have to be doing something with my mind all the time and can't just zone out to music. Wish i could

Johnny

Link to comment
Guest LizMarie

I spent $800 for an industrial grade treadmill nearly 15 years ago and still use it to this day. But I frequently see gym equipment resold second hand for far less. Shop around! You might be surprised at what you find.

Link to comment
Guest Valerie

Shilo;

Look at my post 28Months HRT/ 7 months RLT.

In my reply I posted a couple of exercise routines that I have started using again on June 1st.

One uses a simple deck of playing cards and you focus on doing Sit-Ups and Push-ups.

The other one uses a Life Cycle or Exercise Bike. This one works on Cardio and also builds up your endurance.

/Love

Valerie

Link to comment
Guest Valerie

Shilo;

Let me try posting this information by cut/paste.

#1 = Start with a deck of cards. Sit on the floor or a mat. Decide which color of cards is for Push-ups and Set-ups are for the other color. (i.e. Red means Push-ups, Black means Sit-ups).

Shuffle the deck and flip over the first card. FIrst card 3 of Diamnonds. Now you do 3 push-ups, then flip the next card, Jack of Spades. Now you do 10 Sit-ups. (One push-up or sit-up for the number value of the card you flipped over. 2-9 is 2-9 push-up or sit-ups. Jack through the King are 10 each, with the Ace being 11.) This is a very good system, for it will take you a while to before you are able to go through the complete deck in one setting.

#2 = Using a Life-Cycle or something simular. Start by doing 15-20 minute sets, get off the machine and walk around for a few minutes. Then you repeat the process. Work your way up to being able to complete a one hour long set, then walk around and do another one hour set.

These are two exercise routines that I learned a very long time ago when I was in the Navy.

/Love

Valerie

Link to comment

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
  • Who's Online   6 Members, 0 Anonymous, 88 Guests (See full list)

    • Ashley0616
    • EasyE
    • Susie
    • VickySGV
    • Adrianna Danielle
    • Timi
  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.
  • Forum Statistics

    • Total Topics
      80.5k
    • Total Posts
      767.2k
  • Member Statistics

    • Total Members
      11,939
    • Most Online
      8,356

    Chaidoesart
    Newest Member
    Chaidoesart
    Joined
  • Today's Birthdays

    1. **Angela Charlotte **
      **Angela Charlotte **
    2. Carlie
      Carlie
      (63 years old)
    3. Cbxshawn
      Cbxshawn
      (49 years old)
    4. HannahO
      HannahO
      (31 years old)
    5. JustKatie
      JustKatie
      (40 years old)
  • Posts

    • Ashley0616
      You have grown more breast tissue than most some only get one size and that is it. I went from 42C to 42DD but I'm also taking supplements. It's risky to take the supplements but to me it's worth the risk. 
    • Timi
      I'd echo some of the advice in Imma Asher's letter in the book To My Trans Sisters:   Take your time.  See yourself. Be proud.  Be strong. Indulge in the transformation.  Read more.  Put down the brow pencil.  Live.  And be happy.
    • Ashley0616
      I hope that there is some kind of justice. It's very sad and it doesn't even mention the family and I could only imagine how they feel. 
    • Ivy
      It's kinda weird how these people are so worked up over making these laws.  They would have no effect on cis people either way.  Yet they are the ones with the obsession.  They ought to just stay out of trans people's business.
    • Maddee
      ❤️   He deserved truth.    I told him.     🌈🌈    
    • Ivy
      Bean burritos are still popular in my family.   Black eyed peas are the one legume I'm not fond of.  I need to add lots of onions. And of course always cook your pintoes with fat-meat.  And for y'all yankees, navy beans with a big ol' ham bone are hard to beat.
    • Betty K
      Seek out community, not just online but in person if possible. Making trans friends is a pretty quick and easy way to gauge if you have much in common with them.
    • Adrianna Danielle
      Glad to be home and did go out for a walk this morning.Good thing is that went good.Still taking it easy
    • Charlize
      It certainly could be classed as dark humor.  Unfortunately the sentiments alone must hurt young trans folks.  Decency and reality doesn't seem to be in the GOP's vocabulary.   Hugs,   Charlize
    • Mmindy
      Good morning all,    It’s a frosty morning here the lawn looks silvery, and the uncovered spring flowers have icy edges on their leaves. The only flower bed I covered was my tulips. As nice as it is here during the day, our clear wind free nights allow the temperatures to drop into the mid twenties. Here in our growing zone it’s recommended that you not plant delicate plants until Mother’s Day. Central Indiana can have snow as late as the third week of May. The birds are active at the feeders, I’ve had my cup of yoghurt and morning meds. So I’ll sit here, drink coffee and watch the as the sunrise chases the frost from the yard.    @awkward-yet-sweet I could eat black eyed peas as a side for every meal. Boil them plain or with fatback. Served as a leftover, just add in a little Rotel Original Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies.  Make the best of your day,   Mindy🌈🐛🏳️‍⚧️🦋    
    • Mirrabooka
      I hope y'all look at this one. A catchy tune released at the end of Covid lockdown. Scarlett is so cute!!!     
    • Heather Shay
    • Mirrabooka
    • Mirrabooka
      Had a weird dream last night.
    • Mirrabooka
      Morning, y'all. Evening here; we had the regulation three mugs full today. Now it's time to drink something else.     No big plans here either, eldest daughter and granddaughter will be arriving on Saturday, and we will have our granddaughter to ourselves for a week after that. We still have plans though. Tuesday we'll go to the swim center, Wednesday we'll take a road trip to visit my mom, Thursday we'll get some mulch delivered to top up the gardens.   I still make other small plans on a daily basis though. The things I do plan nowadays, which is a bit new for me, is that after pinching a nerve and ending up in a bit of pain and getting some treatment from the physio, I am more motivated than ever to exercise more regularly. Tuesday for example, I went for a short (15 minute) early morning walk, went to the pool for some hydrotherapy, and mowed the lawns. Yesterday I did my exercise reps and spent some time on the exercise bike. Today, I went for a 45-minute walk, tomorrow I will do my reps again and go for a long bike ride. As long as I do at least one thing every day, right? The pleasing thing is that I'm losing weight! I blew out to above 95kg early in the year and I'm just under 91kg now. Yay me!
  • Upcoming Events

Contact TransPulse

TransPulse can be contacted in the following ways:

Email: Click Here.

To report an error on this page.

Legal

Your use of this site is subject to the following rules and policies, whether you have read them or not.

Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
DMCA Policy
Community Rules

Hosting

Upstream hosting for TransPulse provided by QnEZ.

Sponsorship

Special consideration for TransPulse is kindly provided by The Breast Form Store.
×
×
  • Create New...