May 23, 2013
Yes, I go to the gym five days a week. I walk two miles, at least, on a treadmill, at something just over 4 miles per hour. It’s boring, and tiring.And I don’t really find that television keeps me amused…
So a few years ago, I started buying and downloading courses on music, philosophy and literature from The Great Courses.
I’m particularly smitten with this professor – Dr. Robert Greenberg.
He’s smart, he’s funny, and I know more about opera, symphony, and a bunch of composers…
You might as well enjoy yourself and learn something while you’re burning calories.
Why yes, I AM running behind schedule… More normal posting will follow!
love,
Janice
We love Robert Greenberg in our house too. His analogies are very funny. And a continuing thanks for the wardrobe ideas.
Ooh, this looks great – thanks for the links!
What a great idea!
I'm so impressed with your 4 miles an hour. I worked my way up to 3 / 3.2 but had to go back down to 2.5 because my hip was bothering me (I sound like a little old lady!) And thanks for the Robert Greenberg recommendation.
My peak speed is 4.2 mph – so I average four miles per hour over the half hour that I walk. I have a knee that gripes on steps, and anything that resembles running, but will endure any amount of walking – go figure!
I didn't mention this in my post, but if you get registered with the Great Courses, they will notify you when they're having sales, and they are ALWAYS having sales. Sales, coupled with downloadable audio content, keeps my cost per hour pretty low. And I've found that some of the courses easily bear re-listening after a year or so…
I love how there are so many ways to educate ourselves besides sitting in a classroom!
Jana @ 333 Days of Hand Lettering
For what it's worth, I've started taking classes on Coursera.org. They're free and fun, but unfortunately, I can't do them while on a treadmill.
Hello Janice!
My husband is hooked on Great Courses and he listens to them as well when he's on the bike at the gym – multi tasking at it's best!!!
Impressive workout! I only wish I had your motivation. Maybe these ideas will light a fire under my bum. Thanks for the inspiration. :-)
Can't take the boredom of treadmill, so I do Jazzercize, but still love the Great Courses. We hope to do their wine appreciation this summer …
Depending on your media, you might check your library.
I watch TV while I treadmill, and my library has something like 28 of the Great Courses DVDs. And 23 of the GC CD's. I haven't looked into their downloadables, but they might have something there too.
Jora
60 minutes interview with Bill Gates a couple of weeks ago had a shot of Bill showing off his collection of Great Courses. It's a great way to learn.
Stacy
I am so glad you love Robert Greenberg. We have loved his series and refer to him as 'friend'. Any one who has listened to him will know why! His series on Wagner is next in line to celebrate his bicentenary. I can't wait to hear Friend's insights. His comments on Tristan and Isolde were wonderful.
I love your blog and especially your scarf ones.
We, too, love Robert Greenberg. Thanks for the idea of listening to him at the gym. I can't tolerate the boredom of the treadmill without some distraction.
I love this "turning flatulence to sweet sound" … where is he saying this?
Shared by The Great Courses: https://www.facebook.com/TheGreatCourses
Yep. That's also what I'm doing: listening to some Great Courses while exercising. I'm a music scholar, but the courses I've chosen, for the sake of variety, include the Middle Ages and some arts history courses.
The brain does not multitask. Sorry.
Wow, I am so happy to get this tip. I have never heard of it but what a treasure trove you exposed me to. Thank you.