It's almost been 6 months since my last blog.... and I wonder why I don't have a following? lol
Lots has happened in that six months. By far a TIE for the biggest thing was that I maintained my weight loss! For the first time ever I have managed to stay (predominantly) on track during a blog hiatus. The other set for first place was I got engaged! :-) Feel free to read about that here.
Coming back from vacation was a huge drag. We had a BLAST in Mexico. I know now, to take off at least a few more days to get myself back in the spirit. It was sooooo relaxing. Six days of fun in the sun...7-day forecast said it would rain everyday and it only did twice.... At night. Which worked, if you know what I mean.
Any who, since being back I have had my bouts of laze and activity, admittedly. But proud to say that I've managed to do enough to maintain my weight. Not one single pound gain. I started using a really cool, FREE weight loss app called My Fitness Pal . This is totally my go-to app to log calories and workouts. Even though I've been spending more time with my Weight Watchers app due to zero point veggies. But I totally support and believe in MFP and it will always be my go to app when I am counting calories. It's just too much to log calories and Points Plus right now.
I've recently redeemed a Living Social voucher to a boxing gym on the southside and I'm following WW to a T.. and I'm down 5 lbs.
I've got some new goals in the making too.. besides trying to get Honeymoon fit, I MAY consider having another baby. With that goal alone I have to get down 5-10 lbs LESS than what I want to be, just because. Come with me and watch 2012 unfold... I hope you're staying active and fit!
Showing posts with label fitness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fitness. Show all posts
Monday, January 30, 2012
Monday, July 4, 2011
Lucky 13... wait... is 13 lucky?
Jumpstart!
So even though I haven't been HERE! I have been active. I come to you down 13 pounds with 20-25 more on my radar. I've been working out no LESS than three times a week. Most times five. I did break a toe that sidelined me for a month. I broke it May 21, 2011. I gained 4.8 pounds during that down time and learned that when I CAN'T workout I become very down on myself and will therefore eat anything in sight. lol
I'm not doing any certain workout.. in fact I'm switching it up to keep a creative routine. I do Chalene Extreme for strength workouts. I walk with a Meetup Group once or twice a week. I recently started loving some belly dance classes. I try out some Power Plate workouts, Flirty Girl, bike riding, yoga, whatever! I'm all over the place as far as activity is concerned.
I've also been following The Jennifer Hudson Meal Plan fairly diligently for nearing 16 weeks. Feeling good, looking good and will be more consistent here from now on. Promise.
I've been checking out a lot of Fit Blogs lately and became really irritated with myself that I haven't taken this thing of blogging a bit more seriously. I'll do better.
So even though I haven't been HERE! I have been active. I come to you down 13 pounds with 20-25 more on my radar. I've been working out no LESS than three times a week. Most times five. I did break a toe that sidelined me for a month. I broke it May 21, 2011. I gained 4.8 pounds during that down time and learned that when I CAN'T workout I become very down on myself and will therefore eat anything in sight. lol
I'm not doing any certain workout.. in fact I'm switching it up to keep a creative routine. I do Chalene Extreme for strength workouts. I walk with a Meetup Group once or twice a week. I recently started loving some belly dance classes. I try out some Power Plate workouts, Flirty Girl, bike riding, yoga, whatever! I'm all over the place as far as activity is concerned.
I've also been following The Jennifer Hudson Meal Plan fairly diligently for nearing 16 weeks. Feeling good, looking good and will be more consistent here from now on. Promise.
I've been checking out a lot of Fit Blogs lately and became really irritated with myself that I haven't taken this thing of blogging a bit more seriously. I'll do better.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
H-A-Double U-A-Eye-Eye!
"Ma$e can you please stop smokin La La? Puff why try, I'ma thug I'ma die high!"Exactly 3 months till the honey and I venture to the islands of Hawaii for his 30th Bday and my MISSION is to be 20 lbs lighter. I often frown on deadline-oriented goals. Because even though they are effective, they can be damaging because people put back on the pounds directly after they are done traveling, with the engagement, ceremony or whatever special occasion it is. (I will NOT be one of those people.... no, but forreal. If anything this trip is just what I needed to get serious.)
The Y had a special on summer memberships again, so I got in on that. $25 a month for the family and I to use any Y in the Metro Chicago area. I will be focusing on 10,000 steps a day, a morning workout via Chalene Extreme (starting Sunday morning), lunchtime workouts that started this week, evening strolls with my Soror and our youth on Mondays and Wednesdays (resuming next week, the weather has sucked this week - Midwest-like "tornado" yesterday and all) and a couple evening workouts at my neighborhood Y on lighter days. In all 6 days of working out, but one is more Tai Chi/Yoga/Stretch related so it's really a "rest day" too. I wrote it all out yesterday. In addition, I will still be following the good health guidelines of WW..
no fad diets for me. I will also be participating in a couple Mommy and Me classes they offer with my sun. Gymnstics and Kiddie Groove to name a couple!All that being said, my MISSION is 20 lbs but I will be more than satisfied with 12-16 (you know weight loss is a strange beast) but I'm confident 20 won't be too far a stretch. In addition, in Hawaii, I WILL be 1. wearing bikinis (I've already started to look for them because this will make sure I don't overeat; can't be walking round Hawaii with a big ol gut!) 2. doing activities that don't just involve lying on the beach (I've already purchased a hiking excursion, debating on another because it takes a great part of one day away from us... but it has waterfalls!) and 3. using the fitness center. Plus 4. enjoying in-room activities.
Super excited. I've never been to Hawaii before... and I hear it's expensive, but well worth the visit. We'll both be 30, it's time to start living life and enjoying all its blessings. Right, bra? (a lil Hawaii slang... just cuz!)
The storm is over now... let some sunshine in.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Get On My Level
"Water seeks its own level." ~ExH.I.T.
Greetings and Salutations! (I've always wanted to "say" that... not sure why.) I come to you a very content woman today as I progress in all facets. Officially 10 pounds lighter, I now can really feel like I am taking steps in the right direction of where my place in this life is going. I am pleased to be making adjustments and doing daily work with someone on my level.
Working as a team is pretty OK, I'm learning... doing away with the selfishness of the past and moving toward a future is healthy and progressive and, I'm learning, a lot of fun. It's nice to stop focusing on the small stuff, and entrust that to Jehovah that he will take care of it in his time, but to keep my mind focused on the big things and keep enjoying where I am in this space and time. I love it. Recently, the mister and I have started working out... together.
It's different and liberating for me to have gone back to leading a healthy lifestyle while in a life with someone... before I've always done it when I kick someone to the curb, get my sexy back as a single girl... then get in a relationship and lose myself in him with date nights, alcohol-infused functions, lazy Saturdays and just being in love and happily fat and all that... so it was nice to get the gumption to return to WW while in a couple, and then see him take an interest in getting himself back young and fit as well. Very cool stuff. Of course now, that adds a bit of pressure for me because EVERYBODY knows men lose weight much faster than we do, so I would be lying if I didn't say, he pushes me because when I want to have a honey bun for breakfast and he chooses Total, I get back on my mental ya dig. Granted, neither of us is (fortunately) anywhere close to being like a gastric candidate or anything, but it's amazing just the energy you get back from doing just a little bit more than you did last week, yesterday... and the different things you have energy for and how it enhances you.
"The best way to enhance a relationship is to lead a healthy lifestyle -- as a couple." ~ Jillian (That Deal) Michaels (I adore Jillian... I may have a teeny girl crush on her... teeny.)
It's different and liberating for me to have gone back to leading a healthy lifestyle while in a life with someone... before I've always done it when I kick someone to the curb, get my sexy back as a single girl... then get in a relationship and lose myself in him with date nights, alcohol-infused functions, lazy Saturdays and just being in love and happily fat and all that... so it was nice to get the gumption to return to WW while in a couple, and then see him take an interest in getting himself back young and fit as well. Very cool stuff. Of course now, that adds a bit of pressure for me because EVERYBODY knows men lose weight much faster than we do, so I would be lying if I didn't say, he pushes me because when I want to have a honey bun for breakfast and he chooses Total, I get back on my mental ya dig. Granted, neither of us is (fortunately) anywhere close to being like a gastric candidate or anything, but it's amazing just the energy you get back from doing just a little bit more than you did last week, yesterday... and the different things you have energy for and how it enhances you.
"When you're feeling strong and confident, you also feel a lot sexier—and that'll boost your sex life." ~J. Michaels
I have been getting the baby itch lately... my poor sun wants to see his friends, his cousins, anyone he can to play with... but I cannot, will not, enter into another pregnancy overweight (or unmarried for that matter but mostly overweight) because I just can't keep doing this back and forth anymore with my health. I've got to prove to myself that I AM in control of my own body.
"Make a woman feel like she's the hottest, most feminine person in the world and she'll love you..." I like that one Jillian... to the same effect as women, doing the work to make ourselves healthier and feeling inside that will exude that femininity, brew that sexiness, and we will (more importantly) love OURSELVES... I love myself you guys!!!
I know and understand that there's ways to enjoy life and the things I want in a pair without sacrificing my temple ANY longer. It's just... nice... sure it has it's scary parts and plot twists here and there, but watching the "fairytale" unfold is definitely making me a lot more level-headed.
"Make a woman feel like she's the hottest, most feminine person in the world and she'll love you..." I like that one Jillian... to the same effect as women, doing the work to make ourselves healthier and feeling inside that will exude that femininity, brew that sexiness, and we will (more importantly) love OURSELVES... I love myself you guys!!!
I know and understand that there's ways to enjoy life and the things I want in a pair without sacrificing my temple ANY longer. It's just... nice... sure it has it's scary parts and plot twists here and there, but watching the "fairytale" unfold is definitely making me a lot more level-headed.
Photo Source: http://www.geo.uu.nl/fg/palaeogeography/pictures/results_fluvialstyle/02_Meanderende_rivier.jpg
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
(Oh ee oh, dancin in) September Epiphany
Well hello there! I'm still here... feelin fat and what not.
I've been on a celebratory binge to enjoy getting a job offer on Friday. In RETROSPECT, I did it a lot more controlled than I normally would. So for that, I am proud of myself. But I'm really trying to get back to business as usual.
Tomorrow, I'm gonna try out a run. On my knee. Pray for me.
This will be a very busy week for me planning meals, getting together a schedule I'm comfortable with, researching a YMCA near my (new) job for lunchtime workouts, getting a cooler for my car to house my food and snacks for the day, researching day cares and the like... it's cool cause for the first time in a long time, I find myself pulling out a gym bag from the storage area for lunchtime workouts... This is going to work, pun intended.
With September upon me... I must focus. I think getting a schedule about my day will help immensely. Now if only my (new) supervisor would call me about the lunch date we're supposed to have to discuss particulars. I'm too excited about this opportunity for it to fall through now... soooo... come on. I'll call him in the morning to see if we're still on.
In the meantime, I have two other day cares to check out tomorrow. Hopefully, will be able to make my choice by Friday.
I'm really, really excited about all that's going on... and I feel really good about the progress I'll make. Before when I wasn't working, working out was my sanctuary and then it was taken from me with the knee stuff... but now it will be an addition to my actual LIFE. Hopefully... oyee... call me back! haha
30 x 30 Challenge
So today is the first of my favorite month ~ September. I adore fall... and it is the welcome to it. I am determined to center my chi and focus to drop (not lose, because when you lose things you ultimately find them) 30 pounds to my goal weight. Exactly 19 weeks to my 30th birthday. And I have a plan in mind... I wish I could stay in reflective mode ALL DAY because that is when I am my best. I really miss my runs, so I AM going to get up in the morning and give one a good old try.. and pray like hell it doesn't hurt or irk.
SO.. I'm gonna keep it to 1200-1350 calories.. I'm going to see about getting through the months of September with no red meat or pork and no more than 4 oz of meat a day. Lots of fruit and veggies.
A (hopeful) C25K run 3 times a week.
Strength training through Chalene Extreme... MUST get through this 3-month program.
When all is said and done... my goals will come into existence but I definitely need to:
1. Stop getting down on myself when I do slip.
2. Turn every negative into a positive until the negatives disappear.
3. BELIEVE in myself.
4. Learn how to control my impulses and celebrations.
Through a steady routine of running and strength training... I must emerge.
I'm tired ya'll... tired of not living to my potential. Tired of not being the size I'm supposed to be... the health I deserve... the energy I need... but I can't continue to talk about it. In fact... I'm tired of that too. It's time for action. And I know I have had epiphany's before... or thought I did... but I'm seriously done... talking.
Time for some action.
This September of 2009 is the beginning of my new life, a healthier life with my sun, my love and working hard for the things I want to keep me grounded.
Time for some action.
I've been on a celebratory binge to enjoy getting a job offer on Friday. In RETROSPECT, I did it a lot more controlled than I normally would. So for that, I am proud of myself. But I'm really trying to get back to business as usual.
Tomorrow, I'm gonna try out a run. On my knee. Pray for me.
This will be a very busy week for me planning meals, getting together a schedule I'm comfortable with, researching a YMCA near my (new) job for lunchtime workouts, getting a cooler for my car to house my food and snacks for the day, researching day cares and the like... it's cool cause for the first time in a long time, I find myself pulling out a gym bag from the storage area for lunchtime workouts... This is going to work, pun intended.
With September upon me... I must focus. I think getting a schedule about my day will help immensely. Now if only my (new) supervisor would call me about the lunch date we're supposed to have to discuss particulars. I'm too excited about this opportunity for it to fall through now... soooo... come on. I'll call him in the morning to see if we're still on.
In the meantime, I have two other day cares to check out tomorrow. Hopefully, will be able to make my choice by Friday.
I'm really, really excited about all that's going on... and I feel really good about the progress I'll make. Before when I wasn't working, working out was my sanctuary and then it was taken from me with the knee stuff... but now it will be an addition to my actual LIFE. Hopefully... oyee... call me back! haha
30 x 30 Challenge
So today is the first of my favorite month ~ September. I adore fall... and it is the welcome to it. I am determined to center my chi and focus to drop (not lose, because when you lose things you ultimately find them) 30 pounds to my goal weight. Exactly 19 weeks to my 30th birthday. And I have a plan in mind... I wish I could stay in reflective mode ALL DAY because that is when I am my best. I really miss my runs, so I AM going to get up in the morning and give one a good old try.. and pray like hell it doesn't hurt or irk.
SO.. I'm gonna keep it to 1200-1350 calories.. I'm going to see about getting through the months of September with no red meat or pork and no more than 4 oz of meat a day. Lots of fruit and veggies.
A (hopeful) C25K run 3 times a week.
Strength training through Chalene Extreme... MUST get through this 3-month program.
When all is said and done... my goals will come into existence but I definitely need to:
1. Stop getting down on myself when I do slip.
2. Turn every negative into a positive until the negatives disappear.
3. BELIEVE in myself.
4. Learn how to control my impulses and celebrations.
Through a steady routine of running and strength training... I must emerge.
I'm tired ya'll... tired of not living to my potential. Tired of not being the size I'm supposed to be... the health I deserve... the energy I need... but I can't continue to talk about it. In fact... I'm tired of that too. It's time for action. And I know I have had epiphany's before... or thought I did... but I'm seriously done... talking.
Time for some action.
This September of 2009 is the beginning of my new life, a healthier life with my sun, my love and working hard for the things I want to keep me grounded.
Time for some action.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Head and Shoulders, Knees and Woes... Knees and Woes.
I felt so good when my eyes popped open this a.m. then I placed my feet down and felt that it wasn't a dream, I did hurt my knee and it was still quite tender. The PLAN was to go to the gym this a.m. and give the elliptical a spin. But after a little bit of thought, I decided to take it easy today and see what I feel like in the morning. (Tomorrow is SUPPOSED to be my third day of week four but we shall see.) I did 20-minute Turbo Jam (the culprit that pulled my knee in the first place) and it didn't feel too bad. I moderated some of the moves to low impact not because I was hurting but to be safe.
My focus today was super clean eating (ehh, I did OK) and cleaning the kitchen (halfway done) since I am getting around on it better than yesterday (ahhh, progress). I was also supposed to do Turbo Sculpt for what I thought would be some upper-body lifting but I turned it on and it was a lot of whole-body work (i.e., bicep curls with squats etc) and I didn't want to overdo it... cause I'm praying I can get through my run OK tomorrow morning. But I did make sure to do SOMETHING.
I didn't ice much today as expected.. I only rested and elevated it a lot. I'm just really praying that I can get back on the tread tomorrow for a successful W4D3. I just really enjoyed Tuesday's run and want to get back out there... plus I feel and see it working in my quads, hammy's, hell, even my abdomen... even at a glacial pace of 4.0... it starting to thrill me. But, I'm not idiot. If I have to wait till Friday or Saturday, I guess that's what I will have to do. It'll just be a little frustrating; but off bat I was planning to spend at least two solid weeks on week four before moving on to Week 5. This is the first time I've experience a knee problem so I am really out of my element on how to address it. But I've been reading helpful articles and feel confident and blessed that it wasn't worse and I am taking proper precautions. It could have been much worse, sidelining me indefinitely yanno?
In more exciting news, I am moving my closet frames upstairs tomorrow finally so that we can start putting them together and adding the walls and prep for the poles and things. So it's gonna be a busy day whether I like it or not. So hopefully I treat my knee well enough tonight that she praises me with act-right tomorrow. :)
This was originally gonna be a "sad" post... filled with "woe is me" but it turns out I may not need to turn on the dramatics after all.. the small set back was just a slightly painful, irritating reminder to ALWAYS practice perfect form, keep soft knees and watch for foot/ankle placement in aerobic activity. And who doesn't need to know those hard-fast and important rules? If we're gonna be doing this for a lifetime journey (as we all should) we're gonna need to make it as safe as possible.
Onward and downward!
My focus today was super clean eating (ehh, I did OK) and cleaning the kitchen (halfway done) since I am getting around on it better than yesterday (ahhh, progress). I was also supposed to do Turbo Sculpt for what I thought would be some upper-body lifting but I turned it on and it was a lot of whole-body work (i.e., bicep curls with squats etc) and I didn't want to overdo it... cause I'm praying I can get through my run OK tomorrow morning. But I did make sure to do SOMETHING.
I didn't ice much today as expected.. I only rested and elevated it a lot. I'm just really praying that I can get back on the tread tomorrow for a successful W4D3. I just really enjoyed Tuesday's run and want to get back out there... plus I feel and see it working in my quads, hammy's, hell, even my abdomen... even at a glacial pace of 4.0... it starting to thrill me. But, I'm not idiot. If I have to wait till Friday or Saturday, I guess that's what I will have to do. It'll just be a little frustrating; but off bat I was planning to spend at least two solid weeks on week four before moving on to Week 5. This is the first time I've experience a knee problem so I am really out of my element on how to address it. But I've been reading helpful articles and feel confident and blessed that it wasn't worse and I am taking proper precautions. It could have been much worse, sidelining me indefinitely yanno?
In more exciting news, I am moving my closet frames upstairs tomorrow finally so that we can start putting them together and adding the walls and prep for the poles and things. So it's gonna be a busy day whether I like it or not. So hopefully I treat my knee well enough tonight that she praises me with act-right tomorrow. :)
This was originally gonna be a "sad" post... filled with "woe is me" but it turns out I may not need to turn on the dramatics after all.. the small set back was just a slightly painful, irritating reminder to ALWAYS practice perfect form, keep soft knees and watch for foot/ankle placement in aerobic activity. And who doesn't need to know those hard-fast and important rules? If we're gonna be doing this for a lifetime journey (as we all should) we're gonna need to make it as safe as possible.
Onward and downward!
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Week (4) In The Knee(s)
Today was W4D2 and it was AWESOME. NO shin pain. I decided to run at a speed of 4.0 (15-min mile). By slowing it down from jump, it seems my my shin really appreciated it. It's still soon time for new shoes. The side of my foot, (perhaps a bunion? not sure need to get an expert opinion it's been there as long as I can remember) was rubbing and irritating me so a larger shoe (as the guy at the store suggested) will be in order. But besides that, the shoes and I are starting to mesh.
So I did 35 minutes of that and then (since I got off to a slow start this a.m. and wasn't able to check out the jump start cardio class at 6:15) came home and did 20-min Turbo Jam. During it, I think -- no I know -- I pulled something in my already tender knee.. Ugh.
I've been hecka active lately... not including my 1500-calories burned day last week, I'm upping my cardio more and more AND my intensity levels. I've also been spending this week getting the house in order... for real this time!! Yesterday I finished the entire upper level to prepare for the closet frames that are being moved upstairs Thursday. I need to workout as much as possible and get the house together before I go back to work. School is back in session very soon.
If I have it in me, I'm gonna do Cardio Party (42 mins) for Turbo Jam. Oh, and I must must must do squats today. Trying to keep my booty spectacular and this cardio is already trimming at it. Bitter sweet this workout business is, but I can keep it tight and high. lol BUUUTTTT with a sensitive knee it would probably be best for me to R.I.C.E it and try again toma, starting with low-intensity. My homework assignment: find a Y with yoga and water aerobics. Need those kindsa activities to combat high-impact runs and Turbo Jam.
In nutritional news, I am cutting my calories a bit this week to kinda shock my system. Only thing is that went to sh*t yessaday... so boo to that, but today is a new day and the smaller number on the scale this a.m. was motivation to keep it together to prep for Friday's weigh-in.
I made a raspberry strawberry protein smoothie to utilize my last cup of raspberries before they went bad. LAST time I buy "exotic" fruit from the Food 4 Less in a crunch instead of waiting for Saturday Farmer's Market. Ugh. *scoffs* Food 4 Less... it's less alright! Food 4 Less Quality.
My shake had me completely full until lunchtime AND it was delicious. Hopefully Ricing for today and toma will help. If there is a God in Heaven. I don't want to detour or deter my progress thus far. Oyeee... just when I get one thing figured out, mo drama. Wish me luck.
So I did 35 minutes of that and then (since I got off to a slow start this a.m. and wasn't able to check out the jump start cardio class at 6:15) came home and did 20-min Turbo Jam. During it, I think -- no I know -- I pulled something in my already tender knee.. Ugh.
I've been hecka active lately... not including my 1500-calories burned day last week, I'm upping my cardio more and more AND my intensity levels. I've also been spending this week getting the house in order... for real this time!! Yesterday I finished the entire upper level to prepare for the closet frames that are being moved upstairs Thursday. I need to workout as much as possible and get the house together before I go back to work. School is back in session very soon.
If I have it in me, I'm gonna do Cardio Party (42 mins) for Turbo Jam. Oh, and I must must must do squats today. Trying to keep my booty spectacular and this cardio is already trimming at it. Bitter sweet this workout business is, but I can keep it tight and high. lol BUUUTTTT with a sensitive knee it would probably be best for me to R.I.C.E it and try again toma, starting with low-intensity. My homework assignment: find a Y with yoga and water aerobics. Need those kindsa activities to combat high-impact runs and Turbo Jam.
In nutritional news, I am cutting my calories a bit this week to kinda shock my system. Only thing is that went to sh*t yessaday... so boo to that, but today is a new day and the smaller number on the scale this a.m. was motivation to keep it together to prep for Friday's weigh-in.
I made a raspberry strawberry protein smoothie to utilize my last cup of raspberries before they went bad. LAST time I buy "exotic" fruit from the Food 4 Less in a crunch instead of waiting for Saturday Farmer's Market. Ugh. *scoffs* Food 4 Less... it's less alright! Food 4 Less Quality.
My shake had me completely full until lunchtime AND it was delicious. Hopefully Ricing for today and toma will help. If there is a God in Heaven. I don't want to detour or deter my progress thus far. Oyeee... just when I get one thing figured out, mo drama. Wish me luck.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
August Attack
With a new month upon us (man, this year is really flying by... I'll be 30 before I know it) I thought it time to re-establish my goals and see what I am doing here. I want to be 165 by September 1. That's gonna take work, commitment, and will power. But I really know I can do it. Not only because I've done it before, but because well, I have to!
But this time is different. Not because it'll be the last time I ever have to make this dance (because believe me, it will be!) but because my body is different. As you know, I have a 2 y/o so I truly believe that my new after-baby body is a little more... stubborn to let the weight go. I need to be disciplined if I am going to persevere. As I've mentioned I am already redirecting my mindset to a healthier living. I just bought more brown rice instead of white and have all whole wheat pastas, breads... and I would have whole-wheat crackers but I wanna finish the Ritz I bought (which claim to be whole wheat but are less than 1g of fiber) quite irritating lol.
At any rate, I did well under my max calories first day of the month. I didn't workout today as planned deciding to take a rest day. I'll be up early for my morning run on the treadmill starting week 4. That's right... week 4! :) I've decided it's time to move forward. I still don't have new new-shoes but my new ones and I are meshing a lot better these days. So I'm gonna check it out and see what happens on those 5-minute intervals.
Day in... day out.
I need a routine for my routine. I have accepted the fact that adult life (hell, life in general) comes with a routine, but have not made the routine work for me to the best of it's ability. It is my ultimate goal to be blessed to wake up January 12 as an even more beautiful, 30-year-old, 140-lb woman, with beautiful teeth, hair, skin, nails and a muscular, toned defined runner's body. And I will. Because I always get what I want and work hard for.
Today began a series of events that is going to reshape me from head-to-toe.... inside out.
I finally, finally replenished my Hair, Skin and Nails vitamin but I went with a different brand. I kept missing GNC operation hours so decided to get it from Dominick's where I went to buy low-fat Coffee ice cream for my Mocha shake (167 cals) I made. (Thanks Weight Watchers cook books!) I also bought (because it was on sale) the Nivea body Good-bye Cellulite 30-Day Body Beauty Program.
I realize you can't get rid of cellulite but these creams and massages are supposed to decrease the appearance of it. Since I don't have a lot of cellulite (and because it was only $10) I thought it would be a cool monthly experiment. It also comes with a little dietary supplement of conjugated linoleic acid and L-Carnitine . So tomorrow I'm gonna take some pictures and see where that leads me come day 30. See if I notice any change or if I just donated $11 and some change to the Nivea fund. :) With this supplement, that will leave me taking 5 pills a day... oyeee... but it's worth it. Just imagine if I could take a pic of my insides? We could see the change over time... but we'll see it on the outside. We all know great health starts from the inside out. From the food we eat and water and nutrients we ingest, we transform our body on the outside with a little sweat of course.
Plan of Attack:
I have decided to go to NETA Fit Fest the second weekend of September to finally lock in the rest of my first re-certifications and get.it.done. By then, it is my hope to be as CLOSE to 160 as possible. Then I will immediately start looking for teaching jobs. Immediately. It is time.
Basic Schedule:
(It's a lot more detailed then this, but here's the public version)
Sunday
C25K 30 minute morning run training
8-min Thin Thighs squat regimen
10 Push Ups
Monday
60-90-minutes of cardio
Tuesday
C25K 30-minute morning run training
30-60 minutes of cardio
10 push ups
Wednesday
60-minutes of cardio
8-min Thin Thighs squat regimen
Thursday
C25K 30 minute morning training
Friday
60-minutes of cardio
8-min Thin Thighs squat regimen
10 Push ups
Saturday
(rest)
But this time is different. Not because it'll be the last time I ever have to make this dance (because believe me, it will be!) but because my body is different. As you know, I have a 2 y/o so I truly believe that my new after-baby body is a little more... stubborn to let the weight go. I need to be disciplined if I am going to persevere. As I've mentioned I am already redirecting my mindset to a healthier living. I just bought more brown rice instead of white and have all whole wheat pastas, breads... and I would have whole-wheat crackers but I wanna finish the Ritz I bought (which claim to be whole wheat but are less than 1g of fiber) quite irritating lol.
At any rate, I did well under my max calories first day of the month. I didn't workout today as planned deciding to take a rest day. I'll be up early for my morning run on the treadmill starting week 4. That's right... week 4! :) I've decided it's time to move forward. I still don't have new new-shoes but my new ones and I are meshing a lot better these days. So I'm gonna check it out and see what happens on those 5-minute intervals.
Day in... day out.
I need a routine for my routine. I have accepted the fact that adult life (hell, life in general) comes with a routine, but have not made the routine work for me to the best of it's ability. It is my ultimate goal to be blessed to wake up January 12 as an even more beautiful, 30-year-old, 140-lb woman, with beautiful teeth, hair, skin, nails and a muscular, toned defined runner's body. And I will. Because I always get what I want and work hard for.
Today began a series of events that is going to reshape me from head-to-toe.... inside out.
I finally, finally replenished my Hair, Skin and Nails vitamin but I went with a different brand. I kept missing GNC operation hours so decided to get it from Dominick's where I went to buy low-fat Coffee ice cream for my Mocha shake (167 cals) I made. (Thanks Weight Watchers cook books!) I also bought (because it was on sale) the Nivea body Good-bye Cellulite 30-Day Body Beauty Program.
I realize you can't get rid of cellulite but these creams and massages are supposed to decrease the appearance of it. Since I don't have a lot of cellulite (and because it was only $10) I thought it would be a cool monthly experiment. It also comes with a little dietary supplement of conjugated linoleic acid and L-Carnitine . So tomorrow I'm gonna take some pictures and see where that leads me come day 30. See if I notice any change or if I just donated $11 and some change to the Nivea fund. :) With this supplement, that will leave me taking 5 pills a day... oyeee... but it's worth it. Just imagine if I could take a pic of my insides? We could see the change over time... but we'll see it on the outside. We all know great health starts from the inside out. From the food we eat and water and nutrients we ingest, we transform our body on the outside with a little sweat of course.
Plan of Attack:
I have decided to go to NETA Fit Fest the second weekend of September to finally lock in the rest of my first re-certifications and get.it.done. By then, it is my hope to be as CLOSE to 160 as possible. Then I will immediately start looking for teaching jobs. Immediately. It is time.
Basic Schedule:
(It's a lot more detailed then this, but here's the public version)
Sunday
C25K 30 minute morning run training
8-min Thin Thighs squat regimen
10 Push Ups
Monday
60-90-minutes of cardio
Tuesday
C25K 30-minute morning run training
30-60 minutes of cardio
10 push ups
Wednesday
60-minutes of cardio
8-min Thin Thighs squat regimen
Thursday
C25K 30 minute morning training
Friday
60-minutes of cardio
8-min Thin Thighs squat regimen
10 Push ups
Saturday
(rest)
Friday, July 31, 2009
Inches Lost
"You thought you had me defeated... then I started a disappearing act."
~ Me to the scale this morning after doing body measurements
So when I got up this early a.m. I didn't feel like I should weigh-in because I didn't have that same feeling as last week. Even though I had a really great week, I didn't... feel lighter. It's hard to explain... BUT there are 12 or so active girls depending on me to do so.. they motivate me everyday and I need to do it for the challenge, but also myself so I can start game planning for the upcoming week.
All week I've been dealing with the gas issues that come with rectifying your digestive system when you're eating right so I've felt heavy and bloated some days even though I burned more calories this week than previous ones. Either way tho, I had a really good workout yesterday and the day before AND Tuesday, so I opted to focus on the positive. As apart of the STFS Challenge, I decided to measure myself for the mid-challenge goals. And was pleased to see I'd erased several (as in more than four) inches from my body. It was a nice feat since sometimes (as I am sure we all know by now) the scale is unforgiving.
I still haven't moved from 170-ville, but I know it's coming and until the next time we meet, Scale. But know this. Every time we do, I'm coming at you with all that I have.
It's on. I am SO DONE with you.
~ Me to the scale this morning after doing body measurements
So when I got up this early a.m. I didn't feel like I should weigh-in because I didn't have that same feeling as last week. Even though I had a really great week, I didn't... feel lighter. It's hard to explain... BUT there are 12 or so active girls depending on me to do so.. they motivate me everyday and I need to do it for the challenge, but also myself so I can start game planning for the upcoming week.
All week I've been dealing with the gas issues that come with rectifying your digestive system when you're eating right so I've felt heavy and bloated some days even though I burned more calories this week than previous ones. Either way tho, I had a really good workout yesterday and the day before AND Tuesday, so I opted to focus on the positive. As apart of the STFS Challenge, I decided to measure myself for the mid-challenge goals. And was pleased to see I'd erased several (as in more than four) inches from my body. It was a nice feat since sometimes (as I am sure we all know by now) the scale is unforgiving.
I still haven't moved from 170-ville, but I know it's coming and until the next time we meet, Scale. But know this. Every time we do, I'm coming at you with all that I have.
It's on. I am SO DONE with you.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Show Stoppin & Goal Watchin
"Week four, I'm coming for you.." she said as she walked Shaft-like out the gym like a car had exploded behind her.
If only I'd had on a leather trench coat and shades.
Show Stopping
I completed W3D5 today. And I must admit, it didn't hurt. My shin splint started to whisper, but I was actually feeling QUITE comfy during the 3-minute interval and I even ran the last two minutes of the 20, when I normally run 90 seconds as suggested and walk for the last 30 then I stretch. Today I ran the time out and then did a semi-brisk 3-minute walk of my 5 minute cool down. I spent another song length stretching... "Sexy Can I!?"
I've finished my first liter of water and had a filling breakfast. I took my Pers' advice and had a banana before my workout and an apple nearly immediately after and then ate a 100-calorie (really 110 cals) whole wheat bagel with some honey nut cream cheese. Then I logged my food. I originally made two bagels. After the first I "no longer felt hungry" but this time in traditional NON-me fashion, I didn't eat till I felt STUFFED. I felt satisfied with the one, so I put the other in a snack baggie in the fridge. I am SO proud of myself. I can have it later, in a couple hours, if I choose as my mid-morning snack. Tho, I think I will go with a peanut butter slice.
Given how this morning worked out, I think I will round off this week with Thursday and Saturday as my extended days 6 and 7 and then finally move on to week 4 on Monday. Hoo-ah!?
Week 4, in sure to — in short — will be a DOOZY.. longer runs that can last up until 5 minutes and less walk time overall. So that's gonna be new territory. I plan to stick to that week for about 2-3 weeks as well depending on how I feel. Conditioning, conditioning, conditioning, remember? I gotta do it...
Turns out my scheduled 5K in November (I was originally debating about October or even September) is the perfect time to run a 5K for me. Because, even though I'll be done with the weekly training way before then by standard week-by-week but with me spending more time on weeks I will be less likely to fail because I'm conditioned properly. And I'll still get some time to check out the 5K training program on the treadmill (so curious about what that's like) and even running outdoors (because as we all know the experiences are vastly different).
So, time to wrap up week three and move further in my journey because I felt really good this a.m. My shin splint didn't complain much at all.. so I'd venture to say the conditioning and taking my TIME is paying off and my calves and shins are getting more stronger.
I have been really upping my cardio and activity in various ways as to not get bored. Currently the bulk of my strength training is coming from boxing and push ups for the arms/upper body, and squats/lunges for lower body. My cardio has been consisting of C25K training, walking, elliptical trainer and Turbo Jam. In fact, later this evening I have a 3.8-mile evening walk.
Goal WatchinAs part of my goals I am really trying to beef up my daily activity and do it consistently for 5-6 days of the week. I want to get in at least 90 minutes of activity a day. With 30 minutes in the morning this should be an easier task than it sounds.
I'm also trying to track my food consistently and eat b/t 1200-1350 calories a day. My SP caloric range goes up to 1550 (I think) daily, but I'm never trying to eat that high. I think it's seriously putting a damper on my progress and eating more calories on my "heavier workout days" as often recommended in many books I read is doing nothing but making me heavier on those days. So I'm just gonna keep taking my vitamins and eat best for you foods of fresh produce leeeean proteins and whole grains. Try to stay away from the packaged stuff etc. and see where that puts me in a month.
As apart of one of the challenges I'm in it's time to measure soon, so it will be VERY interesting to see what I've done and what I NEED to do to get it done if I haven't done enough. Seen?
Off to clean the house... speak soon. I hope you're grabbing like by the horns and enjoying an active ride.
Pictured:
1. Check out the intervals in Weeks 4 and 5
2. My free T-shirt from my Y for completing 15 workouts... 1 mo to go!
Friday, July 10, 2009
"I got the pepper!"
OK, so even tho Shila started whining at around 11 minutes, I am smiling about my morning run to complete W2D3 of C25K Training. For those of you who have had the unfortunate pleasure of
hearing me complain during Week 2, you know I got very frustrated that my new shoes didn't take care of an irritated shin splint that started getting louder as I increased my run intervals...
But I am proud to say that I could not have planned my run better this morning. Shila was patient with me, the TV in front of the treadmill was playin a symbolic message and my iPod playlist was "jammin on the one!" Allow me to explain:
OK, so a little back story, after Wednesday's dreadfulness, I started stretching and stretching hard, yesterday I was scared to do any form of anything worried about how it would affect my
run today... but alas, thanks to a challenge via Spark People, I did my last chance workout and got in my Burn Circuit 3 Strength Training session and a 20-minute Turbo Jam aerobics session before bed.
I stretched some more afterwards and then took a hot bath where I stretched some more... and my bath, was simply awesome. HOT water, Rosemary drops, eucalyptus bubbles, Epsom salts and lil ol sore me. It was soooo nice. I am not really a bath person, but I am definitely squeezing in one of these as part of my weekly routine which by the way is tweaking a little bit to incorporate my run.. and changing my off day(s) a little bit. I'll talk about this later... back to how great my run was.
The title of this blog (for non-Cosby Show junkies) comes from one of my favorite episodes where Cliff (Bill Cosby) is asked to run in a 4 X 400 relay as a special race between his alma mater and their old rival! And his coach, to ask him how he was feeling, would ask him if he got the pepper! Meaning, (in non-Cosby like speak) "are you ready to kick this race's ass?!" OK, so not very exciting if you've never run track, but for me it was a nice little sign that the run might not be as bad as I anticipated it... cause, I can't front, I went in today a little confident, but also a little scared. But after that, "I got the pepper!"
Secondly, the first song to kick off my 5-minute brisk walk was "More" by Rhymefest.
No matter how much I get (I want more)
Even when I talk my shit (I want more)
Every party on every list
And everybody want a life like this
But still (I want more)
Which helped cause I do expect more out of myself now that I am getting older. I really am going to kick this fit thing in the butt... for good! Every song after that was great too... I compiled the playlist (143 songs total) and shuffle it every run morning, but sometimes a song I love comes on at the wrong moment of my run and I have to switch. I didn't have to switch once today... yah!!
Third and lastly, today, I am going to Fleet Feet off a recommendation from my Per
s (Sorority Sister) about how they examine your run and stride and tell you what kind of shoes you need based on your assessment. In gist, they really analyze everything about your run from your feet to your stride to determine how to make your run experience the most comfortable. Since we are in a recession, I simply can't afford to toss the $75 shoes I just bought and get new ones, so hopefully a simple insert will help much. Monday begins Week 3 and I won't enjoy 3-minute jog intervals if Shila's ass is nagging me the whole time. So hopefully this consultation will garner some great realizations... because I WILL RUN my first 5K this fall. You just better damn believe it!
So the weekend is generally a time for resting for me, but with the new schedule Sundays will be my first day of the week for strength. This particular weekend will be more intense because in the morning I am going on a 7.7-mile hike in Busse Woods (when Saturday is usually my rest day) with some Walking Group friends of mine. So, I will need to stretch and act right because Monday is back to the tread again.
* Because Friday is so intense, I will classify this as my last chance workout... I will now weigh myself once a week for official numbers early Saturday mornings.
hearing me complain during Week 2, you know I got very frustrated that my new shoes didn't take care of an irritated shin splint that started getting louder as I increased my run intervals...But I am proud to say that I could not have planned my run better this morning. Shila was patient with me, the TV in front of the treadmill was playin a symbolic message and my iPod playlist was "jammin on the one!" Allow me to explain:
OK, so a little back story, after Wednesday's dreadfulness, I started stretching and stretching hard, yesterday I was scared to do any form of anything worried about how it would affect my
run today... but alas, thanks to a challenge via Spark People, I did my last chance workout and got in my Burn Circuit 3 Strength Training session and a 20-minute Turbo Jam aerobics session before bed.I stretched some more afterwards and then took a hot bath where I stretched some more... and my bath, was simply awesome. HOT water, Rosemary drops, eucalyptus bubbles, Epsom salts and lil ol sore me. It was soooo nice. I am not really a bath person, but I am definitely squeezing in one of these as part of my weekly routine which by the way is tweaking a little bit to incorporate my run.. and changing my off day(s) a little bit. I'll talk about this later... back to how great my run was.
The title of this blog (for non-Cosby Show junkies) comes from one of my favorite episodes where Cliff (Bill Cosby) is asked to run in a 4 X 400 relay as a special race between his alma mater and their old rival! And his coach, to ask him how he was feeling, would ask him if he got the pepper! Meaning, (in non-Cosby like speak) "are you ready to kick this race's ass?!" OK, so not very exciting if you've never run track, but for me it was a nice little sign that the run might not be as bad as I anticipated it... cause, I can't front, I went in today a little confident, but also a little scared. But after that, "I got the pepper!"
Secondly, the first song to kick off my 5-minute brisk walk was "More" by Rhymefest.
Even when I talk my shit (I want more)
Every party on every list
And everybody want a life like this
But still (I want more)
Which helped cause I do expect more out of myself now that I am getting older. I really am going to kick this fit thing in the butt... for good! Every song after that was great too... I compiled the playlist (143 songs total) and shuffle it every run morning, but sometimes a song I love comes on at the wrong moment of my run and I have to switch. I didn't have to switch once today... yah!!
Third and lastly, today, I am going to Fleet Feet off a recommendation from my Per
s (Sorority Sister) about how they examine your run and stride and tell you what kind of shoes you need based on your assessment. In gist, they really analyze everything about your run from your feet to your stride to determine how to make your run experience the most comfortable. Since we are in a recession, I simply can't afford to toss the $75 shoes I just bought and get new ones, so hopefully a simple insert will help much. Monday begins Week 3 and I won't enjoy 3-minute jog intervals if Shila's ass is nagging me the whole time. So hopefully this consultation will garner some great realizations... because I WILL RUN my first 5K this fall. You just better damn believe it!So the weekend is generally a time for resting for me, but with the new schedule Sundays will be my first day of the week for strength. This particular weekend will be more intense because in the morning I am going on a 7.7-mile hike in Busse Woods (when Saturday is usually my rest day) with some Walking Group friends of mine. So, I will need to stretch and act right because Monday is back to the tread again.
So, new schedule will be as follows:
Sunday: Burn Circuit 1, stretching
Monday: C25K Training, stretching
Tuesday: Burn Circuit 2, stretching
Wednesday:
• C25K Training
• Burn Intervals
• Ab Burner
• Stretching
•Special Bath
Sunday: Burn Circuit 1, stretching
Monday: C25K Training, stretching
Tuesday: Burn Circuit 2, stretching
Wednesday:
• C25K Training
• Burn Intervals
• Ab Burner
• Stretching
•Special Bath
Thursday: Burn Circuit 3, stretching
*Friday:
• C25K Training
• Burn It Off (Cardio)
• Recharge (Intense Yoga-like stretching)
Time for breakfast... *still smiling**Friday:
• C25K Training
• Burn It Off (Cardio)
• Recharge (Intense Yoga-like stretching)
* Because Friday is so intense, I will classify this as my last chance workout... I will now weigh myself once a week for official numbers early Saturday mornings.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Time for Some Answers!
These are questions asked of me in one of my Spark challenges... and they really made me contemplate. Doing so gives perspective to how I am going to address my health and wellness in the future... and I want to share them with you.
1.Why am I overweight?
I am overweight... because I didn't keep my consistency when my life changed. I came to Chicago fit(ter) and well. I was 154 lbs and even though statistically I had some weight to lose, I felt great in my clothes (most days) and I was strong and lean(er). I immediately found a gym that I loved and was working out on a consistent basis. In March of 2006, I reunited with my first love. Happy, joyous occasion but one that came with a different life than the one I was used to. We soon moved in together (my first and only cohabitation with a partner) and there were fun nights of boxing and football and lovemaking, there were cocktails and nights on the town, eating out at restaurants and before we both knew it, we were toppling the scales over. In September of 2006, we were blessed to conceive a child. By then, I was approximately 175 pounds (my current weight). I gained 22 pounds with my pregnancy, lost it immediately thanks to breast feeding and have just been stagnant since due to laze and inactivity.
2.Why do I want to lose weight?
I want to lose weight because I am an athlete. Her body is hidden, but my strength and drive and competitive nature and love of physical fitness and activity are still very much abundant and important to me. I want to prove to myself that I can be my own AFTER. I want to show and prove to self that the dual (track and basketball) athlete still lives inside of me. I want to lose weight because I have aerobics classes to resume teaching. I have a personal training certificate to obtain. I have a sun to raise and be around for his games, recitals, accomplishments. I want to feel like myself again AND live the life I love with my family. I want it to look just like it does now, but with me in smaller pants, consistently making better food choices and having an active, lovely, healthy lifestyle.
3.Why haven't I maintained weight loss before?
I cancelled my gym membership when the fee increased, didn't find an alternative like I SAID I would, ate whatever I wanted, and drank whatever I wanted to drink and thought I was happy doing so. But I'd lost myself there. It's only by the grace of God, I've not gained more weight but "maintained" this (over)weight. I know my health had a lot to do with it too... I have (thank the Lord) always been the picture of health, no heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, nothing... and I figured, well hey, I'm healthy, I'm still cute... what's the problem? But I want my real body back. And now that I know what NOT to do, the sky is my limit..
Thanks Hot 2 Trot girls... our Leader ANEWAMANDA has really done a great job rounding us up... I can't wait to see how we all emerge from this challenge with all the hard work we're putting in.
H2T!! H2T!! H2T!! H2T!! :)
1.Why am I overweight?
I am overweight... because I didn't keep my consistency when my life changed. I came to Chicago fit(ter) and well. I was 154 lbs and even though statistically I had some weight to lose, I felt great in my clothes (most days) and I was strong and lean(er). I immediately found a gym that I loved and was working out on a consistent basis. In March of 2006, I reunited with my first love. Happy, joyous occasion but one that came with a different life than the one I was used to. We soon moved in together (my first and only cohabitation with a partner) and there were fun nights of boxing and football and lovemaking, there were cocktails and nights on the town, eating out at restaurants and before we both knew it, we were toppling the scales over. In September of 2006, we were blessed to conceive a child. By then, I was approximately 175 pounds (my current weight). I gained 22 pounds with my pregnancy, lost it immediately thanks to breast feeding and have just been stagnant since due to laze and inactivity.
2.Why do I want to lose weight?
I want to lose weight because I am an athlete. Her body is hidden, but my strength and drive and competitive nature and love of physical fitness and activity are still very much abundant and important to me. I want to prove to myself that I can be my own AFTER. I want to show and prove to self that the dual (track and basketball) athlete still lives inside of me. I want to lose weight because I have aerobics classes to resume teaching. I have a personal training certificate to obtain. I have a sun to raise and be around for his games, recitals, accomplishments. I want to feel like myself again AND live the life I love with my family. I want it to look just like it does now, but with me in smaller pants, consistently making better food choices and having an active, lovely, healthy lifestyle.
3.Why haven't I maintained weight loss before?
I cancelled my gym membership when the fee increased, didn't find an alternative like I SAID I would, ate whatever I wanted, and drank whatever I wanted to drink and thought I was happy doing so. But I'd lost myself there. It's only by the grace of God, I've not gained more weight but "maintained" this (over)weight. I know my health had a lot to do with it too... I have (thank the Lord) always been the picture of health, no heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, nothing... and I figured, well hey, I'm healthy, I'm still cute... what's the problem? But I want my real body back. And now that I know what NOT to do, the sky is my limit..
Thanks Hot 2 Trot girls... our Leader ANEWAMANDA has really done a great job rounding us up... I can't wait to see how we all emerge from this challenge with all the hard work we're putting in.
H2T!! H2T!! H2T!! H2T!! :)
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Lucky Number Month 7
Well... it certainly is difficult trying 2 do it all & be a great mom too! But I'm doing it!! :)
After joining the Y, I have really been concentrating and making low-cal recipes. I been making large meals that last, quick meals that fill us up and making love to my Crockpot so that I always have a healthy lunch/dinna & stay away from takeout.
I been substituting fat free milk (and hell, getting a milk serving period) for 2%, eating more egg whites than yolk, counting calories (admittedly need to fine tune this) and trying best to stay away from restaurant food, though we MAY have a restaurant meal here and there. I am eating smaller portions (and getting full on them) and getting my exercise on usually in the A.M.
The Chicago Y's have a really nice summer special that I had to take part in, and if I don't get to the gym in the a.m. to hit up the elliptical and treadmill real quick, I try to make it up with an afternoon workout or something at home for a total of 5 workouts a week and 3 strength training.
I am also finding exercise in other things I do (laundry, bike riding, outdoor walks and hikes, house cleaning etc) cause man, climbin stairs from the laundry room with 4 lb. weighted gloves & 4lbs attached to each ankle is real and it's deep! As ya'll know, I really jus got started again (4 real) at the beginning of June; I am proud to announce I'm down 5 lbs.:) New tattoo I'ma comin! (See previous goals post for details).
I hope U all r doin the damn thang as well!
I've attached a couple pics of my meals I've made:
Pork and Apple Stir fry:
This had so many yummy vegetables in it.
It was so pretty! And tasty.
After joining the Y, I have really been concentrating and making low-cal recipes. I been making large meals that last, quick meals that fill us up and making love to my Crockpot so that I always have a healthy lunch/dinna & stay away from takeout.
I been substituting fat free milk (and hell, getting a milk serving period) for 2%, eating more egg whites than yolk, counting calories (admittedly need to fine tune this) and trying best to stay away from restaurant food, though we MAY have a restaurant meal here and there. I am eating smaller portions (and getting full on them) and getting my exercise on usually in the A.M.
The Chicago Y's have a really nice summer special that I had to take part in, and if I don't get to the gym in the a.m. to hit up the elliptical and treadmill real quick, I try to make it up with an afternoon workout or something at home for a total of 5 workouts a week and 3 strength training.
I am also finding exercise in other things I do (laundry, bike riding, outdoor walks and hikes, house cleaning etc) cause man, climbin stairs from the laundry room with 4 lb. weighted gloves & 4lbs attached to each ankle is real and it's deep! As ya'll know, I really jus got started again (4 real) at the beginning of June; I am proud to announce I'm down 5 lbs.:) New tattoo I'ma comin! (See previous goals post for details).
I hope U all r doin the damn thang as well!
I've attached a couple pics of my meals I've made:
Pork and Apple Stir fry:This had so many yummy vegetables in it.
It was so pretty! And tasty.
Herbed Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers:
A one stop meal of protein, starch (rice),
and veggies.
and veggies.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Remember The Goals
I spoke to someone who actually successfully completed the ChaLEAN Extreme program and she told me that she lost 12 pounds over the 3 months and a few inches... that is awesome in the sense that it's 12 pounds she didn't have on her frame three months prior. Perhaps I am an overachiever or just seriously misunderstanding what the program is supposed to do. OR it has me thinking it will do something it simply won't. However, instead of trying to figure out which, I have to figure out what I can do to maximize my results. In a perfect world, I would lose two pounds a week over the 12 and end with at least 24 lbs AND several inches. But in order to achieve anything close to that, I'm going to have to utilize those recipes she shares in the food guide, cut my calories down to 1400 (I was previously at 1550 max). I have to utilize those calories better by eating more less calorie/fulfilling foods.
Gotta remember my goals. And figure out the best way to execute to make this work for me. The words "results not typical" keep flashing in my mind... I want my results to be untypical as well dammit!
Now during my day, I wear my little "I Play For Keeps!" bracelet to remind me to make best decisions all day long to be regret-free come workout time.
While I am doing the workouts (almost done with my first full-week ~ yay!) I know now I must add some more to my plan. Cardio. The circuits get my heart rate up. Which is great... and "muscle burns fat" but I need to be doing some cardio too, I feel. And there's only one workout in the week that incorporates some actual cardio into the workout (Burn Intervals). But at the same time, the workout itself is enough house activity, so I have to figure out something to do. I want to incorporate bike rides three times a week... but that's gonna need the weather to cooperate. It's been a rainy Chi-Town lately. But perhaps I can plan for bike rides and walks and Turbo Jam can be my "rain site." :-)
And I just have to push myself.
Currently, when my lifting is getting too tough, I chant little things like, "push..." or "I can do it..." "Sweat breeds athletes..." Perhaps a little lame to some.... but a big motivator to me.
This has been a long-awaited fight that I have postponed for nearing three years... it's bitter for me to even be here again... BUT I am here. I can either deal with it now or never address it and deal with the affects of it later. I choose to fight now... while I still have the energy, drive, motivation and great health to attack it. Furthermore, I want to keep all those traits. I don't want any of them to deteriorate.
So, it's these verbal cues and different visuals that are gonna help me through this. Around my house, specifically at my desk in my study where I sit often and perhaps decide not to get up to workout... near my sun's sweets section of the cupboard and on the fridge to name a few... I place little index cards with drawn statements like:
- I want to get stronger!
- I want to be a lean machine!
- I want to have more energy!
- I want to feel/look like myself again!
- I want to LIVE and be healthy for sun!
- I WILL reach my goal!
Every time I eat some fast food or something not particularly good for me that's not included in my meal plan... I feel disgusting and disappointed with myself afterward. I mean, literally. It goes too quickly. It's (sorta) tasty going down, but not filling at all. But it's quick, easy and gets the job done for the moment. But oh when it's done... I just feel so guilty. Like a person with a conscience who cheats on her partner and afterwards gets those bad feelings like, "that was a mistake.... I should not have done that." That feeling (and my finances ~ not a lot of overhead to be wasting money on an unfulfilling meal) has been stopping me from going into a fast food restaurant or drive-thru. It's these little victories that let me know I just might be back. No, scratch that... that I am back.
Are you hurt or are you injured?
~ Coach "The Program"
I loves me some residual pain.
I know that when it's happening, my muscles are woooorking.
It's not that injury, "oh my word, that HURTS!" pain but, "oohhhhh yeah, that hurts sooo good!" :)
I will be an athlete again!
Tomorrow morning I am biking to Washington Park (as promised) while my sun gets his haircut and goes shopping for his birthday stuff with Daddy.
OH and thanks for being here to hear me journal about these trials... just think soon it will be about my client meetings and classes! :)
"I get it in!"
Thursday, June 11, 2009
"If Your Core Is Weak, Nothing Else Can Be Strong"
The Core is the center... make no mistake my friend, if your core is weak -- you are weak! I don't care how long you have been riding a bike, how lean you are, how fast you are or how quick you can climb. Your core strength and durability is the lifeblood of ongoing cycling strength and performance. ~http://www.cyclo-club.com/public/department163.cfm
So here I am at the third workout day of my five-workout day plan... the day calls for two workouts: Burn Intervals and Ab Burner. The problem I ran into when I first started the program, I was so exhausted that I would not do Ab Burner. But today, I did the intervals, ate some breakfast, rested, later ate lunch and then did Ab Burner. It was shorter than I originally remember; only 10 measly minutes and I could only get through five of them. I was totally disgusted with myself. I've always said my core is just a disgrace. I wish I could excuse it on having a baby two years ago, but that would be a lie since it was weak before then... and I know it takes time and patience and everyone is always telling me I need to exercise (pun intended more patience. But it's hard... especially when damn near starting from scratch.
So here I am at the third workout day of my five-workout day plan... the day calls for two workouts: Burn Intervals and Ab Burner. The problem I ran into when I first started the program, I was so exhausted that I would not do Ab Burner. But today, I did the intervals, ate some breakfast, rested, later ate lunch and then did Ab Burner. It was shorter than I originally remember; only 10 measly minutes and I could only get through five of them. I was totally disgusted with myself. I've always said my core is just a disgrace. I wish I could excuse it on having a baby two years ago, but that would be a lie since it was weak before then... and I know it takes time and patience and everyone is always telling me I need to exercise (pun intended more patience. But it's hard... especially when damn near starting from scratch. My Wii Fit even tells me in my balance tests that my posture needs work. I will be shifted to the left some days, the right other days and then some days I have PERFECT posture, but to me, I am standing awkwardly. Isn't that odd? Have you ever experienced this? A strong core helps keep your body aligned properly and is helpful in all fitness levels and activities. With optimal alignment, your fatigue is likely to hold off longer as you get stronger. Hence why it's imperative for runners and swimmers to learn/practice good form... it helps then endure through the race by keeping fatigue at bay. Have you ever seen someone running in the park with arms and legs flailing like a chicken? They look flushed and in pain and tired like they're gonna pass out? Yeah, bad posture leads to bad form... which leads to fatigue.
So even though I only got through five minutes, I'm gonna keep the faith that toward the later part of the month I can get through all 10 minutes. Because the core, is not just about abs -- thank God! My core is gonna get stronger with all the strength training that goes along with this program. Our core is actually comprised of our upper back and shoulders (aka as the head carriage) gluteals (pelvis), obliques and our abs. This workout thankfully works all of those. In my defense, Chalene does a more advanced ab session for that 10 minutes, but it would be nice to get through it. At any rate, it's over now. And tomorrow morning is a new day for the kid.
Off to take a shower and a nap... I feel pretty good... even if I am down on myself right now. So used to being fit and really good at this stuff. It just caught me off guard to not be able to finish it. I'm highly competitive. Apparently, even with myself.
Simply put, a strong core is equivalent to overall health... and I want to get there.
Have a productive, strong workout today!
Monday, June 8, 2009
Don't Wait for Life-Changing Events
I always feel really silly when I (re)start a workout. Because I feel SO.GOOD when I am done. It's weird that I stopped in the first place. So today was official day one. My schedule is different than when I started the program. Now, I workout Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday doing the Chalene Extreme. Tomorrow is a rest day, but I am currently mapping out a safe route to bike in the a.m.
And now, after a healthy breakfast of Cinnamon Pecan cereal smothered in skim milk lol, I am snackin on frozen sliced strawberries. It wasn't planned for them to be frozen, but my fridge is a beast. But I actually kinda like them like this... kinda feels like a frozen treat. Might be on to something!
I did my workout at 8:30.. later than I planned to and my sun was up which made it more difficult cause he would try to crawl between my legs during my squats to be cute and problematic lol BUT I made it through it and I felt great... I'm also finally, finally using my SPARK PAGE and I'm not going to leave it unused again. It's also an app on my iPod Touch, so now there's absolutely NO EXCUSE for me not to track my stuff, get on it. What's ironic? I created my Spark Page almost a month to the day that I created this blog. Sense a pattern? So here we go... also there are several friends I actually know who are members also, so there's that accountability again. I must get it together ya'll... for me.
You know what I was thinking about yesterday? How complacent we women get in relationships. We fall into these new people who we're loving in this new euphoric state, but what I vow to do NOW, from this day forward (well I had already vowed, but now get to put it to the test) is to continue to keep/get myself together. Just because we're seeing someone doesn't mean we should stop our goals, dreams and plans. If anything, that person should make you strive harder, they should motivate you...
I did a little background on myself and everytime I've gotten fit, accomplished something it was after I'd left a significant relationship. Even when I got fit in 2005, it was after a breakup the previous fall. This isn't necessarily a bad thing. In general, it's human nature to have epiphany's after major life changes/decisions... but I'm not gonna wait for something life-changing to happen before I do something to counter...
I am going to MAKE LIFE HAPPEN.
Dinner tonight...
Marinated broiled chicken breasts (low-sodium soy sauce, garlic powder and onion power) basted while broiling.
Sauteed asparagus in olive oil with red/white onion, celery, garlic and red pepper... pan sprayed with Pam olive oil
Brown rice
And now, after a healthy breakfast of Cinnamon Pecan cereal smothered in skim milk lol, I am snackin on frozen sliced strawberries. It wasn't planned for them to be frozen, but my fridge is a beast. But I actually kinda like them like this... kinda feels like a frozen treat. Might be on to something!
I did my workout at 8:30.. later than I planned to and my sun was up which made it more difficult cause he would try to crawl between my legs during my squats to be cute and problematic lol BUT I made it through it and I felt great... I'm also finally, finally using my SPARK PAGE and I'm not going to leave it unused again. It's also an app on my iPod Touch, so now there's absolutely NO EXCUSE for me not to track my stuff, get on it. What's ironic? I created my Spark Page almost a month to the day that I created this blog. Sense a pattern? So here we go... also there are several friends I actually know who are members also, so there's that accountability again. I must get it together ya'll... for me.
You know what I was thinking about yesterday? How complacent we women get in relationships. We fall into these new people who we're loving in this new euphoric state, but what I vow to do NOW, from this day forward (well I had already vowed, but now get to put it to the test) is to continue to keep/get myself together. Just because we're seeing someone doesn't mean we should stop our goals, dreams and plans. If anything, that person should make you strive harder, they should motivate you...
I did a little background on myself and everytime I've gotten fit, accomplished something it was after I'd left a significant relationship. Even when I got fit in 2005, it was after a breakup the previous fall. This isn't necessarily a bad thing. In general, it's human nature to have epiphany's after major life changes/decisions... but I'm not gonna wait for something life-changing to happen before I do something to counter...
I am going to MAKE LIFE HAPPEN.
Dinner tonight...Marinated broiled chicken breasts (low-sodium soy sauce, garlic powder and onion power) basted while broiling.
Sauteed asparagus in olive oil with red/white onion, celery, garlic and red pepper... pan sprayed with Pam olive oil
Brown rice
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Sept. 10, 2007....
In 6 days, it will be June 10... three months from two years ago when I started this blog. And healthwise, I have accomplished very, very little in comparison to what I was supposed to have accomplished. But I did a lot of thinking and self evaluation in April and May, and June, the start of a new season (summer) is always the best time to bring fruition to ideas and goals.
When is it time to really stop bs'ing and get in your right mind?
Life as an adult is soooo routine, so wouldn't it be smart to make it be the BEST routine for you vs. letting the day waste away without accomplishments? I vow to make the most of my routine days. Life keeps on passing us by... we have to do better.
I mean, as we get older our health (by nature) deteriorates. So it is only smart to get on the good foot and get ourselves together. I've been doing a lot of thinking lately, some positive and uplifting and some not so positive (i.e., what's the point of trying to recertify myself in fitness when other people in the business my age have been consistently doing it for years or are much younger than me?) But I can't be discouraged by those kindsa thoughts... if anything I need to prove to myself that I can finally finish this task... I mean seriously, if I count my original payment plus each $25 delay fee, I have probably paid near $800 to take this damn test in all... lol funny but incredibly... sad.
I was telling a couple of my favorite homegirls that by 30, I really need to have it completely together. With a "new" relationship on the horizon, I still do all the things I was once doing as to not lose myself. I am still getting out the house. Still very active with my Meetup.com groups via community service, health and fitness, professional groups and sister circles. So when I can steal away (and I have been making time to make sure I do) I have been doing that. I get so caught up in family life sometimes, and how to maintain it for my youth, that I forget that there are sooo many things I want to do. Still... at the "old" age of 29 and some change.
There's ... something more that is supposed to be done while I am here. On this earth. Less dramatically, in Chicago. I just have to focus. I completed The Master Cleanse... the one act that calls for serious, serious focus and determination. Surely I can change the path I am on to be even MORE positive.
So I have a plan of action for the next three months: that starts today. Well, really yesterday (June 3).
• Tone up / Lose 15 lbs. And keep it off by making time to work out 5 days a week.
• Study for my exam. Take the test. Pass. :) And look for teaching jobs for the elderly, youth, water aerobics etc.
• Love more... worry less. This is easier said than done but doable still the same.
• Fix my diet. Consume more fruits and vegetables.
• Stick to the budget. With the kids going on summer break, I will be on a very tight budget but if God willing, I will be able to still have a suitable "income" coming in but one that will also allot me the time in my schedule I will need to really get myself (back) together.
But hey, I can post all the bullet points in the world but only a PLAN will make sure I adhere to them. So I will post everyday on how I stuck to the plan that day be it my food intake, my regimen and my good thoughts.
Moving on... but not really:
I love Special K cereal, and was thinking about this Special K Challenge over the weekend. Not so much because I think it's the end-all, be-all of healthy weight loss, I realize it's not... but I was thinking of trying this out for a guinea pig purpose... but I mean, well, if I lose an inch (or six pounds) off my waste that would be cool too. They guarantee at least an inch on the commercials and I must admit I am rather curious. The "challenge" has undergone some slight tweaks since they first introduced it years back... I do remember trying it before but it didn't quite stick. I think because then they didn't have other flavors and I couldn't put sugar on my cereal cause that wasn't part of the plan. Hence why it didn't work for me at all... but now they have snack bars, protein shakes, waffles and a bigger variety of cereals. I was thinking of making a little test experiment out of it... I mean, I've done The Master Cleanse for 1o days... so everything else should be simple, right? lol And I was thinking I could use my Fat Smash detox guidelines for the one meal a day to really drive it home.
What say you?
I debate and debate about it, but I really do need something to shock my system while I am doing my workouts. Working out and eating whatever is not a good balance, but I've found (based on my 2005/06 get fit plan) that when I worked out, filling myself with better for me foods I had a lot more energy. Um, yeah, I know, duh!
I do like Special K, but in general I am not a cereal for breakfast person. I know if I am going to be my best healthy self I need to get over that. BUT since I can't make/won't spend time in the kitchen making egg white omelets and thangs everyday, I need to find a delicate balance. SO I bought some Special K Vanilla Almond and Special K Cinnamon Pecan :)
A nice huge salad some days for lunch or days where I have cereal & fruit for lunch I can make a big bowl of sauteed spinach (my sauteed spinach is fye (fire)!) or red beans and (brown) rice... so long as it's part of the fat smash menu. I think I might be able to make it! My baby's birthday is June 15, so I think that's a nice round numba to see where my progress is from today. Tomorrow, I will resume my Chalene Extreme... and stay the course this time... for real. Utilize that book of yummy recipes she suggests. I'm such a loser sometime... stop spending money on these things and not getting the full benefit, crazy!! *rolls eyes at self*
It's all so frustrating really to know that in 2006 when I returned here, I was extremely fit and still looking to lose like 20 pounds trying to adhere to industry standards... this is where my new recentered self will come into play... keeping me grounded in reality.
So, a typical day will go like this:
Times are estimates and will vary obviously... but the GOAL is to try and stick as close to the times as possible to not only create a rhythm and habit that my body is used to, but also make sure I utilize all the time in my days, positively and wisely.
6 a.m.: Morning rise and prayer
6:30 a.m.: Workout
7:30 a.m.: Breakfast
10:30 a.m. Snack 1
11:30 a.m.: Sun's nap
Noon: Study
1:30 p.m. Lunch
4 p.m. Snack 2
6:30 p.m. Dinner
7:30 Sun's bathtime..
8 p.m. Sun's bedtime..
8:30 p.m. Study/Blog/Unwind
As I said, I'll post daily and make sure to live life in betweek eating lol Trips to the park, store, zoo, cleaning, etc. I just didn't feel it necessary to get into details as far as those were concerned. :)
What can you do/tweak to make your routine work more positively for you? Can you really commit to something for 30 days? 60 days? 90 days?
ETA 6/6/09: OK, so I decided NOT to do the Special K challenge BUT I have had breakfast the past three mornings... I will have it tomorrow as well directly after my morning workout. Yeah!
When is it time to really stop bs'ing and get in your right mind?
Life as an adult is soooo routine, so wouldn't it be smart to make it be the BEST routine for you vs. letting the day waste away without accomplishments? I vow to make the most of my routine days. Life keeps on passing us by... we have to do better.
I mean, as we get older our health (by nature) deteriorates. So it is only smart to get on the good foot and get ourselves together. I've been doing a lot of thinking lately, some positive and uplifting and some not so positive (i.e., what's the point of trying to recertify myself in fitness when other people in the business my age have been consistently doing it for years or are much younger than me?) But I can't be discouraged by those kindsa thoughts... if anything I need to prove to myself that I can finally finish this task... I mean seriously, if I count my original payment plus each $25 delay fee, I have probably paid near $800 to take this damn test in all... lol funny but incredibly... sad.
I was telling a couple of my favorite homegirls that by 30, I really need to have it completely together. With a "new" relationship on the horizon, I still do all the things I was once doing as to not lose myself. I am still getting out the house. Still very active with my Meetup.com groups via community service, health and fitness, professional groups and sister circles. So when I can steal away (and I have been making time to make sure I do) I have been doing that. I get so caught up in family life sometimes, and how to maintain it for my youth, that I forget that there are sooo many things I want to do. Still... at the "old" age of 29 and some change.
There's ... something more that is supposed to be done while I am here. On this earth. Less dramatically, in Chicago. I just have to focus. I completed The Master Cleanse... the one act that calls for serious, serious focus and determination. Surely I can change the path I am on to be even MORE positive.
So I have a plan of action for the next three months: that starts today. Well, really yesterday (June 3).
• Tone up / Lose 15 lbs. And keep it off by making time to work out 5 days a week.
• Study for my exam. Take the test. Pass. :) And look for teaching jobs for the elderly, youth, water aerobics etc.
• Love more... worry less. This is easier said than done but doable still the same.
• Fix my diet. Consume more fruits and vegetables.
• Stick to the budget. With the kids going on summer break, I will be on a very tight budget but if God willing, I will be able to still have a suitable "income" coming in but one that will also allot me the time in my schedule I will need to really get myself (back) together.
But hey, I can post all the bullet points in the world but only a PLAN will make sure I adhere to them. So I will post everyday on how I stuck to the plan that day be it my food intake, my regimen and my good thoughts.
Moving on... but not really:
I love Special K cereal, and was thinking about this Special K Challenge over the weekend. Not so much because I think it's the end-all, be-all of healthy weight loss, I realize it's not... but I was thinking of trying this out for a guinea pig purpose... but I mean, well, if I lose an inch (or six pounds) off my waste that would be cool too. They guarantee at least an inch on the commercials and I must admit I am rather curious. The "challenge" has undergone some slight tweaks since they first introduced it years back... I do remember trying it before but it didn't quite stick. I think because then they didn't have other flavors and I couldn't put sugar on my cereal cause that wasn't part of the plan. Hence why it didn't work for me at all... but now they have snack bars, protein shakes, waffles and a bigger variety of cereals. I was thinking of making a little test experiment out of it... I mean, I've done The Master Cleanse for 1o days... so everything else should be simple, right? lol And I was thinking I could use my Fat Smash detox guidelines for the one meal a day to really drive it home.What say you?
I debate and debate about it, but I really do need something to shock my system while I am doing my workouts. Working out and eating whatever is not a good balance, but I've found (based on my 2005/06 get fit plan) that when I worked out, filling myself with better for me foods I had a lot more energy. Um, yeah, I know, duh!
I do like Special K, but in general I am not a cereal for breakfast person. I know if I am going to be my best healthy self I need to get over that. BUT since I can't make/won't spend time in the kitchen making egg white omelets and thangs everyday, I need to find a delicate balance. SO I bought some Special K Vanilla Almond and Special K Cinnamon Pecan :)
A nice huge salad some days for lunch or days where I have cereal & fruit for lunch I can make a big bowl of sauteed spinach (my sauteed spinach is fye (fire)!) or red beans and (brown) rice... so long as it's part of the fat smash menu. I think I might be able to make it! My baby's birthday is June 15, so I think that's a nice round numba to see where my progress is from today. Tomorrow, I will resume my Chalene Extreme... and stay the course this time... for real. Utilize that book of yummy recipes she suggests. I'm such a loser sometime... stop spending money on these things and not getting the full benefit, crazy!! *rolls eyes at self*
It's all so frustrating really to know that in 2006 when I returned here, I was extremely fit and still looking to lose like 20 pounds trying to adhere to industry standards... this is where my new recentered self will come into play... keeping me grounded in reality.
So, a typical day will go like this:
Times are estimates and will vary obviously... but the GOAL is to try and stick as close to the times as possible to not only create a rhythm and habit that my body is used to, but also make sure I utilize all the time in my days, positively and wisely.
6 a.m.: Morning rise and prayer
6:30 a.m.: Workout
7:30 a.m.: Breakfast
10:30 a.m. Snack 1
11:30 a.m.: Sun's nap
Noon: Study
1:30 p.m. Lunch
4 p.m. Snack 2
6:30 p.m. Dinner
7:30 Sun's bathtime..
8 p.m. Sun's bedtime..
8:30 p.m. Study/Blog/Unwind
As I said, I'll post daily and make sure to live life in betweek eating lol Trips to the park, store, zoo, cleaning, etc. I just didn't feel it necessary to get into details as far as those were concerned. :)
What can you do/tweak to make your routine work more positively for you? Can you really commit to something for 30 days? 60 days? 90 days?
ETA 6/6/09: OK, so I decided NOT to do the Special K challenge BUT I have had breakfast the past three mornings... I will have it tomorrow as well directly after my morning workout. Yeah!
Monday, May 25, 2009
I Joined The Mile-High Club
OK, so not in the traditional sense of the phrase... but it got your attention. :)So on Thursday, I had this bright idea to walk to my "neighborhood Target." *sigh*
In my whip, I get there in 5-10 minutes, tops. On foot, it was a 3-hour adventure. I went thinking it was about a 4 mile round trip journey... so without Googling, I strapped the sun into his stroller with a couple snacks, some ice water and my iPod. The object of the mission: get an armband for said iPod, a nightlight for the sun's room, and a battery for my sports watch.
I left my home at 6:20. I returned home at 9:30 (to my credit, I spent more time in Target than expected cause I wanted them to change the battery and when I got into my watch it was a complicated mess to get the battery out and THEN I stopped at the local currency exchange to get quarters for laundry). I arrived dripping buckets of sweat with tense quads. Yikes. I Google map the route... and found out my presumed 4 mile walk was actually a SIX-MILE walk round trip... owww!
As probably expected, I didn't do laundry that night... but I did take a hot shower and sit my ass down somewhere. Friday, I walked to the stores and back a brisk two-mile adventure to stay loose. And did my laundry, finally. Saturday, I just chilled and stretched waiting for Sunday.
Sunday morning, my alarm clock went off at 4:30 a.m. and I told her to shut her trap. I laid back down and then my BODY'S alarm clock woke me at 5:20... I remember hoping that I heard rain on my rooftop so I would have a good reason not to go. I looked out my window... no rain. *sigh* Then I said, "well, the people I was originally riding with aren't doing it anymore... I'll be lonely; I should stay home." 10 minutes later, I got out of bed tired from excuses.
In my car on the way to the expressway to go downtown, I had the bright idea on how to avoid traffic, parking woes and tickets, paying for meters etc. by just driving my bike and I to 47th and Lake Park in Hyde Park and riding in from there. It seemed like such a good idea at 6 in the morning. My bike and I hit Lake Shore Drive in all it's windiness at 6:20 a.m. I trecked from Chicago's luxurious Hyde Park neighborhood (southeast)...
all the way to Chicago's uppity northside (where the ride turned around) 20 some odd miles away. Before doing so, I met up at the official beginning (approximately 10 miles away from my start) with a friend who by the glory of Facebook met me down there so I wouldn't do the ride alone. Thanks God, for Facebook status updates.We biked to Bryn Mawr (the official turn around spot) and stopped in the rest stop for bananas and muffins and H20... somebody who will remain nameless didn't bring any water bottle and I told him if he thought I was getting back on LSD with him to head back another 20 miles he was sadly mistaken lol. But in essence, it was a good idea for BOTH of us cause that sustenance really helped us get back. Without it, we would have been in a world of ish. 35-40 miles later I was back at my truck, wondering why my butt was in so much pain... it still is, right now. BUT I did it. AND Chicago's Lake Shore Drive in the morning, is beautiful. More hilly than I remember it ever being when I drive my car over it tho. lol A great workout. My legs have put in so much work the past couple days, so many miles (hence the title) if I didn't keep it going, I would have to kick myself.
It did give me the courage to think I could brave bikers on a consistent basis. I admittedly was nervous about it. I'm going to get some padded biking pants to see if that helps any... cause more than anything, the ass area was the worst part of it all. It is why I gave up spinning classes... just real rude to the ass. Next time out with my bike is scheduled for Wednesday morning. Sporadic rides will condition me (and my ass) for my next big ride in July. I found friends to do it with while in Grant Park recovering before the ride back home. See...
The bike path (I had to take the bike path back to the south side/car because they were clearing off bikers to make way to open it up to the cars again) behind Lake Shore Drive is beautiful... riding right there next to the lake, behind the museums, riding past the Chicago Fire Fighter's tribute... very calming even with walkers (walking two abreast) who refuse to move over ANY when you say, "on your left!" knowing you can't pass them because traffic is coming from the other direction. Assholes.
The pleasure is in knowing, I could do exactly what I did before, parking near the drive and getting busy. It was a lovely day ass pain aside. After we loaded the bikes into my car, we went for brunch where I enjoyed a spinach and feta cheese omelet, wheat toast, turkey sausage and hash browns and more glasses of water. And was home by noon. I slept the rest of the day though and finally got up to stop by a holiday BBQ around 7 p.m.
I was back in bed by midnight... pooped!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Running Wid Scissors
I have been battling with trying to resume my run activity for about a week. My homegirl in Michigan recently heard she had high cholesterol and immediately (same day as doc appointment) went to get a gym membership and the next day ran/walked a couple miles AND has already registered for her first 5K at the end of May! How AWESOME is that?! :) I mean, some people just get it started right off bat... no hesitation. And I love that. However, since I don't have THAT kinda luxury (I mean who will watch The Sun?!) I have to plan out how things are going to happen to a fine print so that there's a less chance of it falling through (i.e., failing) on me.So wid that in mind, I am in the process of finding a running stroller so I no longer have an excuse as to why I can't go running. The gym membership is a dead issue to me since it's
The running strollers are made wid a special three-wheel set up for easy pivoting, built for speed etc. Some can get very, very expensive because they're trying to be lighter, have better tires, hold big ass children (up to 150 lbs) etc. Yesterday and today are the "research" day where I looked into the top recommended brands and how much they run. I will use a couple days trying to see what I can do/find on eBay as Craigslist in my area left one lonely stroller and it was listed for $200! Get back, jack! That's slightly above my budget. If I could find a gently used one for $100 or less, I'd be happy. I can upgrade later yanno? All else fails, I'll spend $150 or so at Target and call it a day.My background while not very intensive says that I CAN run, I've just chosen not to. I've done slightly-competitive 5K WALKS and have started Couch Potato to 5K more times than I can remember... but now that I am back active, for the first time I don't feel like I am forcing myself to get involved. I was a runner in high school... so I know I got it in me. Plus there's nothing like a runner's body... *wolf whistle*
So here's the plan:1. Subscribe to Runner's World Magazine. I received a subscription special in error in the mail and took that as my first sign that maybe I should stop thinking about it and DO it. (I've been considering running again off and on for years). *writes check, seals envelope*
2. Find a stroller. Any leads, recos highly encouraged.
3. Go find a nice, comfortable shoe made for my weird feet. I ain't gwan spend more than $120... so don't even try to make me. The trial issue of the magazine they sent to encourage me to get started said you can go out (to start) wid the shoes you already own so long as they are comfy, but my current trainers have quite a few miles on them (they're two years old) and I have shin splints from my track days, so I would rather just get a new shoe off bat. But will start in them if everything else falls in line.
4. Start fixing my diet. As a runner, you kinda HAVE to get your diet in better check because the food fuel literally gets you through the run. So there's an idea. I hope to be hitting the old dusty trail wid in a week or two (depending on shipping). Till then I am scheduled to do 4-mile walks twice a week and my strength program I've been up to.
Wish me luck in finding a good, sturdy running stroller, for an affordable price. That's truly the most important component... if I had that I could at least get started and the rest will come. Early morning run, strapping him in and getting to it. Don't talk about it, be about it... get runnin and put the scissors down.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Hungry, Hungry Hippo Slimmo!
Sooo, there's defo an increase in appetite when doing so much strength training. I am learning the hard way, but trying my very best to make the most healthy choices. I think I may start counting points again... I figure something is better than nothing since I clearly have some sort of issue wid tracking calories. Plus, I have all these fancy schmancy unused, but paid for, Weight Watchers journals... at least then I am still tracking what goes in. I am still undecided. But I am wondering if I can perfect that atleast, it might get me geared into tracking calories? *shrugs* Iono... I do know Wednesday workout is done and while I can feel my muscles working, I'm not in excessive pain which is good. That always happens once you get into a groove... I smile at the fact that I am in a groove. Yay.
In other news, here are some favorites I ran across since starting my workouts ... in the healthy eating quickies... take a looksee...
Smart Ones Santa Fe Rice and Beans served with a huge salad wid Balsamic Vinaigrette and a sprinkle of feta? *drool*
(I drink the protein shake as my breakfast drink, after my morning workout.)
So far I've only tried French Vanilla (left in my fridge by accident of my weekend guest) and I really like it. I will try the other flavors. 10g of protein! 5g of fat and only 180 calories... and extremely tasty.
In other news, here are some favorites I ran across since starting my workouts ... in the healthy eating quickies... take a looksee...
Smart Ones Santa Fe Rice and Beans served with a huge salad wid Balsamic Vinaigrette and a sprinkle of feta? *drool*
(I drink the protein shake as my breakfast drink, after my morning workout.)
So far I've only tried French Vanilla (left in my fridge by accident of my weekend guest) and I really like it. I will try the other flavors. 10g of protein! 5g of fat and only 180 calories... and extremely tasty.
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