Hey, all. Been a while for me (and for all of us!). Hope you're all working out happily and successfully. As for me, well, the past semester wreaked havoc on my well-laid plans, as usual. I had a really good streak of workouts going in February, but then I came down with a nasty virus that kept me in bed for several days and without energy for over a week. It was all downhill from there.
Last month I got in a few hours of exercise here and there. Last week I lifted some weights, and today I walked 5 miles briskly outdoors (including lots of hills). So I'm pleased with this upward trend.
Usually the summer months offer the best chance for me to get in shape simply because of all the outdoor opportunities. I love fast-paced walks in the park (with several stops for lunges and stretching along the way), tennis, frisbee, playing catch, anything that gets me moving and in the sun. I haven't cycled outdoors in years but hope to start up with that again this summer. Give me a beach, and I'll play paddle ball for hours.
What are your favorite outdoor activities in the summer months?
In addition to lots of activity this summer, I'm also making renewed efforts at eating well. I'm currently hooked on V8 fusions -- a delicious juice blend containing fruits and vegetables. My flavor of choice is strawberry banana, but mango peach is also good. There are lots of others to choose from.
Today at the store I bought some all-natural whole grain cereal, salad ingredients, a red pepper, watermelon, pomegranate apple juice, low-fat yogurt, peanut butter, wheat crackers, and... okay, I'll admit it, Nutella.
How are you all doing?
Monday, May 9, 2011
Friday, April 8, 2011
Paper Plate Workout
I stumbled across this link that my cousin posted online, and I think it offers some good at-home workouts. The plates seem mostly unnecessary, but I suppose they could be good for people who like visual markers to align their body with. I've done some of these exercises (called by various other names); the "mountain climber" one is a FABULOUS ab workout. And by fabulous, I mean you will be sore for 3-4 days after trying it for the first time. Love it.
Check it out!
How is everyone doing? I have slacked big time this semester, but tonight I cycled for an hour and did over 11 miles. It felt wonderful. If only I could do that every day..... I watched half of a movie (500 Days of Summer) while cycling, which I like to do because it really makes the time go fast. Also, I don't let myself watch the second half until I work out again, thus providing motivation to work out again, and soon.
That's all for now! Oh, I should mention that I am eating lots of chicken. And lots more veggies than usual (including broccoli and cauliflower). And lots of fruit (mainly mandarins, strawberries, and cantaloupe).
I gave up desserts starting around the 2nd week of Lent, and I've only cheated once or twice. That feels good too, considering I was back to my old ways of eating 8 tons of sugar per day. Approximately.
Okay, I think that really is all now.
Check it out!
How is everyone doing? I have slacked big time this semester, but tonight I cycled for an hour and did over 11 miles. It felt wonderful. If only I could do that every day..... I watched half of a movie (500 Days of Summer) while cycling, which I like to do because it really makes the time go fast. Also, I don't let myself watch the second half until I work out again, thus providing motivation to work out again, and soon.
That's all for now! Oh, I should mention that I am eating lots of chicken. And lots more veggies than usual (including broccoli and cauliflower). And lots of fruit (mainly mandarins, strawberries, and cantaloupe).
I gave up desserts starting around the 2nd week of Lent, and I've only cheated once or twice. That feels good too, considering I was back to my old ways of eating 8 tons of sugar per day. Approximately.
Okay, I think that really is all now.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Joints
Over the past few months I've experienced snapping in my hips and an increase in joint pain in my knees after workouts. I finally decided to see a doctor.
After several x-rays, it was determined that I do not have any breaks or tears, but the muscles around my knees are weak, and it's affecting my stride. This is likely the cause of my hip pain. My doctor is setting me up with a physical therapist, and if that doesn't help I may have to see a sports medicine specialist.
She also recommended that I visit a shoe store called Second Sole to be fitted with a shoe that can give me better arch support. I went today and the knowledgeable employee I worked with recommended a few pairs for me to try. I went with these: http://www.scott-sports.com/gb_en/product/10752/58796/218740
I don't know much about shoes. This pair definitely felt like it had less padding than some of the other pairs I tried on, but a lot of the super-padded ones felt weird on my feet. I'm thinking maybe I should have thought a little more about my final decision. The shoes I bought are comfortable, but maybe the slight annoyance of having my feet hugged in weird places (arch, sides, heel) is something I need to get used to. Maybe that's the best for my feet. This is a $100+ investment so I want to make sure it's right. I'm kind of stressing about it.
I've never spent this much on a pair of shoes in my life. I see it as an investment in my health and well-being. I want to take care of my feet and legs now so this doesn't become a chronic issue.
So right now I'm feeling nervous, anxious, and a little defeated. I am worried about how long physical therapy is going to take, if I'm going to see results, how much it's going to cost if it's not covered by my insurance, and whether these shoes are going to work out. I'm also disappointed that this stuff is affecting my workout. I was finally starting to see results from my shift in workout regimen, consultation with a trainer, and change in diet (I've begun counting calories on Livestrong.com and I'm doing really well with it). Now I find that I can't do the workout I want to do because I'm experiencing pain. I feel like I'm doing everything right and my body is working against me. It's pretty disconcerting.
Right now I need to try and stay positive. I need to be more careful about what I consume since I might not be able to do as much cardio or work out as extensively as I'm used to. I'm a determined person and I know I can do well with physical therapy and that I'll be diligent with whatever exercises they give me. So here it goes. Here's to getting back into top form.
After several x-rays, it was determined that I do not have any breaks or tears, but the muscles around my knees are weak, and it's affecting my stride. This is likely the cause of my hip pain. My doctor is setting me up with a physical therapist, and if that doesn't help I may have to see a sports medicine specialist.
She also recommended that I visit a shoe store called Second Sole to be fitted with a shoe that can give me better arch support. I went today and the knowledgeable employee I worked with recommended a few pairs for me to try. I went with these: http://www.scott-sports.com/gb_en/product/10752/58796/218740
I don't know much about shoes. This pair definitely felt like it had less padding than some of the other pairs I tried on, but a lot of the super-padded ones felt weird on my feet. I'm thinking maybe I should have thought a little more about my final decision. The shoes I bought are comfortable, but maybe the slight annoyance of having my feet hugged in weird places (arch, sides, heel) is something I need to get used to. Maybe that's the best for my feet. This is a $100+ investment so I want to make sure it's right. I'm kind of stressing about it.
I've never spent this much on a pair of shoes in my life. I see it as an investment in my health and well-being. I want to take care of my feet and legs now so this doesn't become a chronic issue.
So right now I'm feeling nervous, anxious, and a little defeated. I am worried about how long physical therapy is going to take, if I'm going to see results, how much it's going to cost if it's not covered by my insurance, and whether these shoes are going to work out. I'm also disappointed that this stuff is affecting my workout. I was finally starting to see results from my shift in workout regimen, consultation with a trainer, and change in diet (I've begun counting calories on Livestrong.com and I'm doing really well with it). Now I find that I can't do the workout I want to do because I'm experiencing pain. I feel like I'm doing everything right and my body is working against me. It's pretty disconcerting.
Right now I need to try and stay positive. I need to be more careful about what I consume since I might not be able to do as much cardio or work out as extensively as I'm used to. I'm a determined person and I know I can do well with physical therapy and that I'll be diligent with whatever exercises they give me. So here it goes. Here's to getting back into top form.
Monday, March 7, 2011
A Successful Month
About a month ago, I finally busted out of my slump and have managed to exercise 5+ days/week since then. I'm not seeing a huge physical difference yet, but cardio is definitely getting easier. I've been mostly doing the elliptical, but occasionally mixing it up with a bike or a treadmill (or a cardio kickboxing class).
Also, as a habitual soda drinker, I've decided that, rather than trying to cut it out completely, I'd cut back. During the slump I was definitely drinking some every day. Now, I'm at about half as much. Not ideal, but, better.
I hope I can keep my momentum going and at least improvise some on my upcoming trip out of town on St. Patrick's Day weekend. Anyone have suggestions for exercise on the go?
How's everyone else doing?? (I think Mary is busy eating a 3-pound cinnamon roll?)
Also, as a habitual soda drinker, I've decided that, rather than trying to cut it out completely, I'd cut back. During the slump I was definitely drinking some every day. Now, I'm at about half as much. Not ideal, but, better.
I hope I can keep my momentum going and at least improvise some on my upcoming trip out of town on St. Patrick's Day weekend. Anyone have suggestions for exercise on the go?
How's everyone else doing?? (I think Mary is busy eating a 3-pound cinnamon roll?)
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
A Sick Diet
I caught some sort of nasty bug (half flu, half cold) last week, and within 7 days I'd lost 5 pounds. Let's just say my fitness goal does NOT involve losing weight since I'm already a petite gal, and I'm trying to build muscle tone. GRRRRRR.
At least my abs look flat in the mirror. I do not recommend this approach, however.
Oh, and of course, I couldn't work out while sick. So I'm way behind in my workouts. Yesterday I did a lot of walking, though, and my quads are actually sore. That's a good thing.
My goal is to get in a few good workouts within the next week. And also to stop coughing.
Hope you are all faring better than me!
At least my abs look flat in the mirror. I do not recommend this approach, however.
Oh, and of course, I couldn't work out while sick. So I'm way behind in my workouts. Yesterday I did a lot of walking, though, and my quads are actually sore. That's a good thing.
My goal is to get in a few good workouts within the next week. And also to stop coughing.
Hope you are all faring better than me!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Getting out of the Doldrums
I haven't posted since pretty much the beginning of this blog, so I thought I better at least say something.
I was in quite a serious exercise funk for a few months where the only thing I'd really accomplish was ultimate frisbee once a week. This is partially due to my job--it's not a particularly strenuous job, but I was unemployed for quite awhile before getting it, so I was spoiled by daytime hours at the gym. It's very hard for me to want to go to the Y right when I get home because I know it will be ridiculously crowded. BUT, if I wait awhile until it clears out, then it's hard to convince myself to leave the house. Especially in this wintery season where it's probably dark and extremely cold.
I'm happy to say that I've gotten through the doldrums--I went to the Y this past Saturday, Sunday, and yesterday and have every intention of heading out again tonight.
What broke my laziness spell was something that I think can help everyone--another person being involved. Saturday morning, I sent a text to two friends asking if they wanted to meet up. They agreed. So, there was no turning back. Well, I could've still backed out, but not without feeling like a huge jerk.
When we met up, they admitted that they probably wouldn't have come if not for me, so it was good motivation for all of us.
Now, I just need to keep it up!
I was in quite a serious exercise funk for a few months where the only thing I'd really accomplish was ultimate frisbee once a week. This is partially due to my job--it's not a particularly strenuous job, but I was unemployed for quite awhile before getting it, so I was spoiled by daytime hours at the gym. It's very hard for me to want to go to the Y right when I get home because I know it will be ridiculously crowded. BUT, if I wait awhile until it clears out, then it's hard to convince myself to leave the house. Especially in this wintery season where it's probably dark and extremely cold.
I'm happy to say that I've gotten through the doldrums--I went to the Y this past Saturday, Sunday, and yesterday and have every intention of heading out again tonight.
What broke my laziness spell was something that I think can help everyone--another person being involved. Saturday morning, I sent a text to two friends asking if they wanted to meet up. They agreed. So, there was no turning back. Well, I could've still backed out, but not without feeling like a huge jerk.
When we met up, they admitted that they probably wouldn't have come if not for me, so it was good motivation for all of us.
Now, I just need to keep it up!
Monday, February 7, 2011
Baby steps
Today I...
Ate breakfast (cheerios)
Walked to school
Walked home from school
Ate lunch (Pierogies and bacon with chives and ranch dressing)
Ate dinner (spinach salad with black beans and corn, and carrot ginger soup)
Took the dog for a walk!!
Took my vitamin
Drank lots of water all day
Drank ZERO caffeine!
(I also did off-topic stuff like read for school, etc.)
I feel so proud of myself today! The only thing I didn't do that I would like to do is yoga. I know it seems like such a simple routine, and such simple meals and everything, but this is where I need to start. On top of not being very good at following through with my goals, the fatigue of pregnancy makes staying active much more difficult. Eventually, my workout and nutrition routine will get more complicated, but for now I just need to reach the point of actually doing stuff. From there, I will become the healthiest woman in the world!!
Just a pregnancy sidenote: On Sunday I hit my 11 week mark, which means just this week and next week and the first trimester is over. I hear that from then on, my energy level will be up and I won't have to deal with the fatigue I've been battling. Also, my belly is starting to round out a bit. An onlooker would not be able to tell, but Maic and I can! How exciting!
Ate breakfast (cheerios)
Walked to school
Walked home from school
Ate lunch (Pierogies and bacon with chives and ranch dressing)
Ate dinner (spinach salad with black beans and corn, and carrot ginger soup)
Took the dog for a walk!!
Took my vitamin
Drank lots of water all day
Drank ZERO caffeine!
(I also did off-topic stuff like read for school, etc.)
I feel so proud of myself today! The only thing I didn't do that I would like to do is yoga. I know it seems like such a simple routine, and such simple meals and everything, but this is where I need to start. On top of not being very good at following through with my goals, the fatigue of pregnancy makes staying active much more difficult. Eventually, my workout and nutrition routine will get more complicated, but for now I just need to reach the point of actually doing stuff. From there, I will become the healthiest woman in the world!!
Just a pregnancy sidenote: On Sunday I hit my 11 week mark, which means just this week and next week and the first trimester is over. I hear that from then on, my energy level will be up and I won't have to deal with the fatigue I've been battling. Also, my belly is starting to round out a bit. An onlooker would not be able to tell, but Maic and I can! How exciting!
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