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I know there are a lot of things we can, should and actually do to prepare ourselves for deployment. There is a lot of business, busyness and sadness to contend and deal with. We are gearing up here to say good-bye to my son much earlier than we had anticipated. It’s been hard gearing my mind back up to be ready to cope with the stress of deployment on the home front.

When he deployed back in 2007 for his first 15-month tour and my husband was still in TraDoc I took a preemptive strike against stresses effects and began exercising. I was really out of shape and had not regularly exercised in years. A sedentary job, stressful stuff in life, and some medical problems left me feeling very wore out all the time. I knew if I didn’t get ahold of my health and focus on taking care of myself during that time I would be a mess when my guys did come back home. I didn’t want that… I wanted the energy to celebrate with them!

So, I am starting to do the same again. This time I am in good shape. I had to back off of my more aggressive workout schedule this past late summer. I am ready to jump back in.

Change in the home and family structure can be an opportunity to change some habits. Figure out what small things you can do first. Be consistent, but don’t go out and do too much the first few days. If you do that you may sabotage yourself. Start slow, but steady and work up to a higher level of exercise.

Below is a compilation of suggestions and ideas that may be helpful. They come from various sources.

1. Set yourself up for success. Dont’ sign up for a marathon next month if you are not a runner now. Pick what you are good at and what you are interested in.
2. Even if you just choose to go for an afternoon walk everyday, it is a great thing to do! Find a walking buddy so your can chat and make the time go by faster.
3. Drink plenty of water everyday, and always stretch after you exercise when your muscles are warmest.
4. If you are interested in learning how to run for fun, fitness and races try a “couch to 5k” program. Be sure to wear a very good pair of running shoes.
5. Join a local YMCA. Some YMCAs even have programs for military families.
6. Start an exercise journal. Sometimes seeing the hours you’ve logged can be a source of encouragement.
7. Be sure to give your body adequate rest. Make sure you give your muscles times to recover in between runs or lifting weights. Mix it up a bit. While you are having a “down day” instead of running try walking, Yoga or Pilates.
8. Find other ways to measure your success instead of the scale!

Good luck! Just remember that before you start a new exercise program you should make a quick visit to your family doctor to ensure that you do not have any restrictions or limitations to consider. Always follow your physicians advice!