Getting in shape

A couple of weekends ago, we went to Edmonton to visit my family.
My mom has severe arthritis in her knees, and about a year ago, had arthroscopic surgery, but it didn't go very well. She still has a lot of pain, and despite physiotherapy, she is having a lot of trouble walking.

Since I also have arthritic knees, I decided to try to forestall the type of problems Mom is having by exercising. A little while ago, my rheumatologist said that I should stop walking for exercise, because of the stress on me knees. I've been doing Pilates, but feel like that's not enough.

So I joined a nearby fitness centre, intending to swim. Years ago (many years ago), when I lived in a high-rise apartment building with a pool, I swam every day, and enjoyed it.

Today was the first time I went to the pool. I intended to just do a few laps, to ease myself into it. Well, I could barely finish one. I was embarrassed, but decided not to push myself, since I've done that before with other exercise programs and ended up exhausted or ill and unable to continue.

I plan to go in again on Tuesday. Wish me luck!