Finding the root of the habit

[DougB]

I think one of the things that makes picking so hard to quit is that the habit itself is unconcious--but to quit takes a concious effort--and if you're anything like I am, the more I think about it, the harder it is to resist.
Well after I did a little self diagnosis and found out that the root of my picking is anxiety, so I have started a weight training program over the past 10 weeks. For me, this does two things:

1) It is an efficient way to expend that energy and stress in a healthy way

2) Gives me a boost of self esteem when I see improvements in my physique and the amount weight I use.

So far, so good--I have noticed a significant decrease in picking, my hands and feet are beginning to look like they did long before I ever developed this habit/condition.
Its not for everyone but, hey, if this can help just one of us, it was worth posting.

[fcarea]

I'm so glad I read you post! Finally another male on this board. I thought I was the only one! I started a weight training/cardio work-out in January and am really I did. It is amazing how much stress it relieves after finishing a work-out. I don’t think I really ever pick after a session at the gym. You also feel much better about yourself when you’re in shape.

How often do you go to the gym? They say that you should do weights about every-other day and you can do cardio every day. A good cardiovascular work-out is supposed to be very good for limiting anxiety.

[DougB]

Typically its recommended 2-3 times for weight training, and 30-40 mins of cardio 3 times per week. But since lifting helps so much with picking, I'm doing a split routine. This basically means that on Monday I work on upper body, then Tuesday I do lower body, and alternate days and mix in cardio where I feel like it. This way I am relieving stress almost everyday and I can fit it into my schedule easier because I'm spending half as much time in the gym per session.

[fcarea]

Doing half of the routine on one day and the rest on the next is a great idea. I have considered it in the past, but enjoy my days off from the gym too much to actually go ahead with it! I think I might, though, after school starts up again for me (I'm going into grade 12 this year). That's when I really need the decreased anxiety!

Talk to you later,
fcarea