See you when I get back!
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
On Hold
I've decided to put this blog on the shelf for now and take it easy. I'll be doing small things like taking the stairs and walking with my dog instead of going all crazy with the fitness camps, and running. I need to find balance in my life and am off to so.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Hitting a Wall
My lunch hour this afternoon consisted of another couch to 5km run. It was a beautiful sunny day in the low 20's; nicer than most of our summer was this year.
I hit the button for week 4 day 3 which is running intervals of 5 and 3 minutes. I started out not too badly but soon realized what a month away from running outside can do.
I ran great through the 3 minute intervals, no problems and not out of breath. So far so good.
But then the 5 minute intervals start and I found that I seemed to be slowing down quite a bit and kept hitting a wall at the 3 minute mark. The good news is that I notice that I am recovering very rapidly during the downtime in-between.
I decided to run down to Eau Claire market and around Princes Island park. The trees are all changing color and the grass is still green. People were everywhere walking, biking and running along the river pathways. I hope that Wednesday will be just as beautiful so I can get outside again.
I hit the button for week 4 day 3 which is running intervals of 5 and 3 minutes. I started out not too badly but soon realized what a month away from running outside can do.
I ran great through the 3 minute intervals, no problems and not out of breath. So far so good.
But then the 5 minute intervals start and I found that I seemed to be slowing down quite a bit and kept hitting a wall at the 3 minute mark. The good news is that I notice that I am recovering very rapidly during the downtime in-between.
I decided to run down to Eau Claire market and around Princes Island park. The trees are all changing color and the grass is still green. People were everywhere walking, biking and running along the river pathways. I hope that Wednesday will be just as beautiful so I can get outside again.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Stairs, stairs and more stairs
We spent the past three weeks traveling around western Europe and we walked pretty much the entire vacation. We took the stairs at each hotel. At Sacre Coeur in Paris we walked up over 300 stairs to the top for the view and at the leaning tower of Pisa we did the same. I've gotten very seasoned at stair climbing.
Since getting home from vacation last week it's been raining non-stop. So running outside, although much more enjoyable, is not something I plan to subject myself to. My lunch hour today consisted of jogging on the treadmill in the tiny gym at the office. I took it a bit easy and walked 3.5mph and 4mph in between intervals of 6mph minutes and 7-7.5mph at 30 sec.
So that's a fastest time of 8 minute miles. Maybe someday I'll be able to run actual full miles at that speed. For now I'm just happy to get in some fitness.
Since getting home from vacation last week it's been raining non-stop. So running outside, although much more enjoyable, is not something I plan to subject myself to. My lunch hour today consisted of jogging on the treadmill in the tiny gym at the office. I took it a bit easy and walked 3.5mph and 4mph in between intervals of 6mph minutes and 7-7.5mph at 30 sec.
So that's a fastest time of 8 minute miles. Maybe someday I'll be able to run actual full miles at that speed. For now I'm just happy to get in some fitness.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Run in the Smoke
Calgary was filled with smoke today which drifted over from the BC forest fires. The weather was beautifully hot and I decided to go for a jog at lunch hour without realizing this. I noticed it was a bit harder to breathe but figured that I was just having a tired day.
I ran week 4 day 1 which involved 3 and 5 minute intervals. I'd never attempted to run 5's before outdoors but was nicely surprised. (A treadmill is much easier to run on.) I jogged week 4 with no problems and it wasn't actually as difficult as I had anticipated. Imagine if there had been clean fresh air to breathe!
My route was the normal downtown circuit that I've been following. From City Hall to Eau Claire Market area along the south side of the Bow river, across the bridge and back along the north river side pathway. All and all I think it's about 4km.
Late in the afternoon I read the local news online and discovered that asthmatics have been warned to stay indoors with the windows closed. Oops. Ah well, I seem to have done just fine. Feels great to jog.
I ran week 4 day 1 which involved 3 and 5 minute intervals. I'd never attempted to run 5's before outdoors but was nicely surprised. (A treadmill is much easier to run on.) I jogged week 4 with no problems and it wasn't actually as difficult as I had anticipated. Imagine if there had been clean fresh air to breathe!
My route was the normal downtown circuit that I've been following. From City Hall to Eau Claire Market area along the south side of the Bow river, across the bridge and back along the north river side pathway. All and all I think it's about 4km.
Late in the afternoon I read the local news online and discovered that asthmatics have been warned to stay indoors with the windows closed. Oops. Ah well, I seem to have done just fine. Feels great to jog.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Weekend at the Lake
Spent the weekend out at the lake with my husband and my brother. We spent a good portion of the time doing chores around the house. Mowing the lawns(it's a few acres big), feeding the cats and the fish, watering the houseplants and my moms flower gardens. So we got a bit of exercise in that form. We also got in some beach time riding the seadoo.
Sunday I went for a jog with my dog River. We did the c25k week 3 day 3 again. It's 3 minute intervals of jogging, which I can handle. The next level is 5 minute intervals and I'm not quite sure I'm ready for that yet. Soon..
We ran along the hilly gravel roads and then back to the house. Grabbed some water and then switched the program to a new fitness app I downloaded called lolo. We hit the gravel again and ran from the house down to the beach to meet the family for some more seadooing.
All and all a great weekend.
Sunday I went for a jog with my dog River. We did the c25k week 3 day 3 again. It's 3 minute intervals of jogging, which I can handle. The next level is 5 minute intervals and I'm not quite sure I'm ready for that yet. Soon..
We ran along the hilly gravel roads and then back to the house. Grabbed some water and then switched the program to a new fitness app I downloaded called lolo. We hit the gravel again and ran from the house down to the beach to meet the family for some more seadooing.
All and all a great weekend.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Friday the 13th!
Happy cloudy, rainy, Friday the 13th!
Todays exercise has consisted of doing household chores. I know nothing fun, but someone's got to do it. And I guess I can count it as exercise. My plans to run today with my doggie were dashed by rainstorms. Hmm, does typing count as exercise..
Tomorrow and Sunday we're seadooing/swimming at the lake with my favorite(only) brother. I love family time. Hoping for some nice sunny weather and clear skies so we can see the meteor showers.
Just over a week until summer vacation in Europe!
Have a great weekend!
Todays exercise has consisted of doing household chores. I know nothing fun, but someone's got to do it. And I guess I can count it as exercise. My plans to run today with my doggie were dashed by rainstorms. Hmm, does typing count as exercise..
Tomorrow and Sunday we're seadooing/swimming at the lake with my favorite(only) brother. I love family time. Hoping for some nice sunny weather and clear skies so we can see the meteor showers.
Just over a week until summer vacation in Europe!
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Back at it
I've been getting lazy lately. Stopped seeing my trainer every Friday for now. It can get costly! I did the 60km walk en of July and took a break from working out. It feels so icky! Time to get moving again.
Today I brought my running gear to work in the hopes that I can get out at lunch and get moving. Going to be a long run with only one song on my iPhone.. Oops. iTunes has failed me. Maybe I can run to Sirius satellite radio. Hoping for the clouds to part for a bit and I'm all set.
I really need to find a routine that I can stick with other than a 30 minute video. Don't get me wrong videos are probably better than nothing but being outside would be the ideal while the weathers still nice enough to enjoy.
The plan today is to drink lots of water, try to relax, go for a run, and consider joining LA Weight Loss. I hear they're good but require a lot of face time. Three times a week! Really? I'll think about it. A nutritionist would be really nice to have. I wonder what the cost is ...
End of the Day Update: I decided not to call LA. I did run at lunch today and am planning to go with my dog again tomorrow on my day off. The water intake goal has not been met... 700ml all day so far. I'm trying. Off to the cooler to get another jug..
Today I brought my running gear to work in the hopes that I can get out at lunch and get moving. Going to be a long run with only one song on my iPhone.. Oops. iTunes has failed me. Maybe I can run to Sirius satellite radio. Hoping for the clouds to part for a bit and I'm all set.
I really need to find a routine that I can stick with other than a 30 minute video. Don't get me wrong videos are probably better than nothing but being outside would be the ideal while the weathers still nice enough to enjoy.
The plan today is to drink lots of water, try to relax, go for a run, and consider joining LA Weight Loss. I hear they're good but require a lot of face time. Three times a week! Really? I'll think about it. A nutritionist would be really nice to have. I wonder what the cost is ...
End of the Day Update: I decided not to call LA. I did run at lunch today and am planning to go with my dog again tomorrow on my day off. The water intake goal has not been met... 700ml all day so far. I'm trying. Off to the cooler to get another jug..
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Running Pains?
Monday at lunch hour I went for a run to week 2 day 3 of couch to 5km. It was quite a warm day and I had some struggles with 90 second intervals. A colleague at work Informed me that I may be starting out too quickly and then burning out early. He said I should try to jog and keep it slow for the first few minutes.
Last night at about 8:30 I had the urge so I harnessed up my dog, River, and we went for a long run. I ran 3 minute intervals and did week 3 day 1 twice. It felt really good to be able to accomplish that, an also to give River some well deserved exercise. We got turned around and lost in our own community; it's still developing, so we don't know it all yet. Good thing that I had my iPhone with me and used the map to get home.
I've been noticing chest pains in the past few days. They seem to be uncorrelated to working out as when I've been running they don't bother me. When I try to stretch I can't seem to get it loosened. Are there chest stretches? Can you pull a muscle in your torso by running?
Last night at about 8:30 I had the urge so I harnessed up my dog, River, and we went for a long run. I ran 3 minute intervals and did week 3 day 1 twice. It felt really good to be able to accomplish that, an also to give River some well deserved exercise. We got turned around and lost in our own community; it's still developing, so we don't know it all yet. Good thing that I had my iPhone with me and used the map to get home.
I've been noticing chest pains in the past few days. They seem to be uncorrelated to working out as when I've been running they don't bother me. When I try to stretch I can't seem to get it loosened. Are there chest stretches? Can you pull a muscle in your torso by running?
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Plyometrics
Todays pilates class at lunch hour was pretty uneventful. Some pain some problems balancing. A normal class really. However, last nights bootcamp class was all about plyometrics.
Basically this means running and jumping around with little to no breaks, to increase cardiovascular fitness, while trying your best not to throw up or die.
We did sprints, burpies, step ups on retaining walls, mountain climbers, pushups, kicks, jumping squats, jump lunges, and we did a whole bunch of jumping exercises using little orange pylons.
I found out, interestingly enough, that jump lunges are also referred to as mary catherines. Who knew? A nun reference maybe. I'm sure I was praying for my life at one point there myself.
Here's a helpful tip. Before you go to a class called "Bootcamp", don't eat 7 chocolate chip cookies for supper. Besides the fact that they sit heavy in your stomache, they also haunt you while jumping around doing plyometrics. You've been officially warned.
Basically this means running and jumping around with little to no breaks, to increase cardiovascular fitness, while trying your best not to throw up or die.
We did sprints, burpies, step ups on retaining walls, mountain climbers, pushups, kicks, jumping squats, jump lunges, and we did a whole bunch of jumping exercises using little orange pylons.
I found out, interestingly enough, that jump lunges are also referred to as mary catherines. Who knew? A nun reference maybe. I'm sure I was praying for my life at one point there myself.
Here's a helpful tip. Before you go to a class called "Bootcamp", don't eat 7 chocolate chip cookies for supper. Besides the fact that they sit heavy in your stomache, they also haunt you while jumping around doing plyometrics. You've been officially warned.
Project 2: 5DPWAK
I am starting a new fitness project. I'm calling it the 5 Days Per Week Ass Kicking, or 5DPWAK for short. Okay. So I'm still ironing out the name.
The premise is that I work out 5 days, Monday to Friday, every week. My schedule is set up for Monday Core Classes, Tuesday Bikini Bootcamp, Wednesday Pilates, Thursday Bikini Bootcamp & Friday Personal Training.
I was told by my trainer that I should take weekends off to rest. So that's the plan. I hope to motivate my friends to get active, build my endurance and fitness level. Here goes nothing...
The premise is that I work out 5 days, Monday to Friday, every week. My schedule is set up for Monday Core Classes, Tuesday Bikini Bootcamp, Wednesday Pilates, Thursday Bikini Bootcamp & Friday Personal Training.
I was told by my trainer that I should take weekends off to rest. So that's the plan. I hope to motivate my friends to get active, build my endurance and fitness level. Here goes nothing...
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Birthday Bootcamp
Today is my 30th birthday. Wow, where does the time go. Everyone keeps telling me that life gets better in your thirties. So here's hoping that it's true.
Tonight the plan is to go to bootcamp for an hour or so and try to work up a good sweat while trying not to injure my sore left knee too much. That car accident last May is to blame for my knee pain. I'm sure of it. Oh well, I guess I just wait for it to heal. Which I hear, can take a very long time.
After my workout, my wonderful husband is taking me out to birthday dinner, just the two of us. Then Friday we are doing something to celebrate with friends which is still a secret to me. I'm sure it will be a great time!
Tonight the plan is to go to bootcamp for an hour or so and try to work up a good sweat while trying not to injure my sore left knee too much. That car accident last May is to blame for my knee pain. I'm sure of it. Oh well, I guess I just wait for it to heal. Which I hear, can take a very long time.
After my workout, my wonderful husband is taking me out to birthday dinner, just the two of us. Then Friday we are doing something to celebrate with friends which is still a secret to me. I'm sure it will be a great time!
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Bikini Bootcamp Begins
Last week Tuesday, Bikini Bootcamp began. My primary goal is just to make it through class and come out the other end alive. I have no delusions of sporting a bikini for everyone to see. At least not from a fitness class, after cosmetic surgery maybe, but I digress.
Bootcamp is a class where you pay to be tortured, where you run around in various local grassy areas and have your arse handed to you. To do things you never thought your body could do and then when class is over to head home thinking "Why am I doing this again?" The answer? Insanity.
We've had two Tuesday classes so far and Thursdays will be tossed into the mix starting this week, on my birthday, just for fun. Yes, I am spending my birthday getting beat by a trainer. I hope that having my 30th birthday be about working out will somehow rub off on my future as a sign of things to come. A lifestyle I strive to achieve.
There'd just better not be a lot of burpies..
Bootcamp is a class where you pay to be tortured, where you run around in various local grassy areas and have your arse handed to you. To do things you never thought your body could do and then when class is over to head home thinking "Why am I doing this again?" The answer? Insanity.
We've had two Tuesday classes so far and Thursdays will be tossed into the mix starting this week, on my birthday, just for fun. Yes, I am spending my birthday getting beat by a trainer. I hope that having my 30th birthday be about working out will somehow rub off on my future as a sign of things to come. A lifestyle I strive to achieve.
There'd just better not be a lot of burpies..
Friday, April 23, 2010
Running Days
Yesterday was Thursday. Last Thursday I ran almost 5km in intervals. Yesterday I ran again, along the river pathways of downtown W2D2 of the C25Km program. The scenery is really relaxing once you pass the concrete jungle. I enjoy the freedom of running. The feeling that you are doing it on your own, no help from anything or anyone. Just your own power. That is a humbling and empowering feeling. Even jogging city blocks, stoplight to stoplight, can be quite fun. Passing strangers walking on their lunch breaks, thinking I used to see joggers from that perspective, and think "I wish I could do that". Now I can.
Even being overweight, I can still do this. I've been told that I will lose weight in the long run, running. (No pun intended) But I am starting to realize that it's not about losing weight. It's about feeling good. I don't think I've ever gotten the mysterious "runners high" yet, but then again, I am currently only running/jogging in intervals in 20-30 minute stints, covering about 3.5km each time. Eating well helps in this process. I am doing my best, lost in this big confusing world of food, and trying to nail down my own groove. I will get it.
This morning I had a workout with my personal trainer and she worked out my arms, shoulders and back for an hour. I'm typing this now since by tomorrow morning I will be surprised if I can lift my arms, never mind typing on a keyboard. After our workout, I walked passed the 8 week challenge before/after photos publicly displayed on the wall of our gym. The latest set of participants seem to have done really well. I'd like to join the next 8 week challenge if I can manage to find out about it ahead of time. Tanya said she would let me know if she hears anything. It would be really interesting to see how far I could go, training 3 times a week with Tanya for 8 weeks. Here's hoping they hold the next one July/August so I can sign up.
I made my way over to the treadmill, and turned on W2D3 C25Km program on my iPhone, started up the iPod and walked for 5 minutes, then ran intervals of 90 seconds with 2 minutes of walking in between. I walked at 5.5-6km/h and jogged the intervals at 10-11km/h. A bit slower than I would have liked but I will work up to speed. Currently I am trying to focus on distance. The next C25Km week is W3D1 and is 90 sec run, 90 sec walk, 3 min run, 3 min walk. I am considering doing this one on the treadmill as it is much easier than running outdoors, with the terrain changes, wind, traffic and other outdoor factors. I'll let you know how that one goes for me.
Bikini Bootcamp with Terese(the trainer) begins this Tuesday night at 7pm. I'm a bit fearful of what she is going to throw at me and also of the other 11 women in the class. I always picture the others as elite athletes. Much better, faster, stronger than me. I guess it's a fear of being last, holding others back. That was how my first Bikini Bootcamp class went in 2007. I was heavier then, and I have done another class since then, but the fear is still there. It's scary and intimidating, but I will go and prove to myself that I can do it. I will miss my best bud Amanda being by my side this time for support and laughs.
"Dead Last Finish is greater than Did Not Finish, which trumps Did Not Start." ~Anonymous
Even being overweight, I can still do this. I've been told that I will lose weight in the long run, running. (No pun intended) But I am starting to realize that it's not about losing weight. It's about feeling good. I don't think I've ever gotten the mysterious "runners high" yet, but then again, I am currently only running/jogging in intervals in 20-30 minute stints, covering about 3.5km each time. Eating well helps in this process. I am doing my best, lost in this big confusing world of food, and trying to nail down my own groove. I will get it.
This morning I had a workout with my personal trainer and she worked out my arms, shoulders and back for an hour. I'm typing this now since by tomorrow morning I will be surprised if I can lift my arms, never mind typing on a keyboard. After our workout, I walked passed the 8 week challenge before/after photos publicly displayed on the wall of our gym. The latest set of participants seem to have done really well. I'd like to join the next 8 week challenge if I can manage to find out about it ahead of time. Tanya said she would let me know if she hears anything. It would be really interesting to see how far I could go, training 3 times a week with Tanya for 8 weeks. Here's hoping they hold the next one July/August so I can sign up.
I made my way over to the treadmill, and turned on W2D3 C25Km program on my iPhone, started up the iPod and walked for 5 minutes, then ran intervals of 90 seconds with 2 minutes of walking in between. I walked at 5.5-6km/h and jogged the intervals at 10-11km/h. A bit slower than I would have liked but I will work up to speed. Currently I am trying to focus on distance. The next C25Km week is W3D1 and is 90 sec run, 90 sec walk, 3 min run, 3 min walk. I am considering doing this one on the treadmill as it is much easier than running outdoors, with the terrain changes, wind, traffic and other outdoor factors. I'll let you know how that one goes for me.
Bikini Bootcamp with Terese(the trainer) begins this Tuesday night at 7pm. I'm a bit fearful of what she is going to throw at me and also of the other 11 women in the class. I always picture the others as elite athletes. Much better, faster, stronger than me. I guess it's a fear of being last, holding others back. That was how my first Bikini Bootcamp class went in 2007. I was heavier then, and I have done another class since then, but the fear is still there. It's scary and intimidating, but I will go and prove to myself that I can do it. I will miss my best bud Amanda being by my side this time for support and laughs.
"Dead Last Finish is greater than Did Not Finish, which trumps Did Not Start." ~Anonymous
Monday, April 19, 2010
Skiing in April!
Today we spent the day skiing with my favorite uncle at Sunshine Village Resort in the Rockies. It was really great to see him again after 7 years! The weather was amazing, 8 degrees celcius at the top of the mountain and 21 degrees at the bottom. We skiied 9 runs! The most ever for my husband in one day. He is learning to ski and improving each time we go out. It was a day well spent.
I didn't get any formal exercise in the past three days but am going to get back on the wagon tomorrow and try to get feeling better about it. I still can't figure out how to eat well, but this weekend was not a good example as we have lots of left over meat, cheese buns and cupcakes from our wedding reception. Trying to be healthy about eating the leftovers but we also don't want it to go to waste. So sandwiches are on the menu for awhile.
Hoping to run tomorrow at lunch. Need to burn off the cupcakes!
I didn't get any formal exercise in the past three days but am going to get back on the wagon tomorrow and try to get feeling better about it. I still can't figure out how to eat well, but this weekend was not a good example as we have lots of left over meat, cheese buns and cupcakes from our wedding reception. Trying to be healthy about eating the leftovers but we also don't want it to go to waste. So sandwiches are on the menu for awhile.
Hoping to run tomorrow at lunch. Need to burn off the cupcakes!
Wedding Reception
This weekend was our wedding reception back home for all who couldn't make it out to the Dominican Republic last November, and generally for all our friends and family who wanted to come celebrate with us.
Friday began with a workout with my personal trainer and was really nice. I was feeling good. Then I went off to a massage which was much needed. I met my parents at the airport to pick up my grandma and we all went out for a family dinner, including my uncle, and my step sister and her husband. It was a really nice evening. Later that night our friend from Seattle dropped by and stayed the weekend.
Saturday was a crazy day full of wedding reception preparations. My mom and dad, cousin John, and friend Jeff all pitched in to help get things organized. Thank you all! My husband and I were on the go from 9am until after 5pm, when we were late for the limo to the hall. I was altering my bridesmaids dress as she did my hair and I did my makeup as she tied up my dress. It was pure chaos. We finally got into the limo with our friends, there were 10 of us, and made our way to the hall. Stopping for booze at the corner liquor store on the way of course.
The night was great and we had a blast seeing everyone, eating Indian food and cupcakes and dancing. After 11pm the party really picked up and we had some great laughs.
Sunday we hosted a brunch at our house for about 20 family and we made batches of homemade pancakes, bacon and eggs. It was insane trying to feed everyone at once but we got it done. Team work ftw! My husband and I work really well together. We had three babies at our place and it was very cute to have them crawling all over. Baby Maralynn was learning to walk in our livingroom! Yay Maralynn!
By 530pm eveyone had gone and we were asleep in our livingroom by 630! It was a busy and crazy weekend and we loved every minute of it. We got to see so many people whom we love! Organized chaos as my husband put it. Life is grand.
Friday began with a workout with my personal trainer and was really nice. I was feeling good. Then I went off to a massage which was much needed. I met my parents at the airport to pick up my grandma and we all went out for a family dinner, including my uncle, and my step sister and her husband. It was a really nice evening. Later that night our friend from Seattle dropped by and stayed the weekend.
Saturday was a crazy day full of wedding reception preparations. My mom and dad, cousin John, and friend Jeff all pitched in to help get things organized. Thank you all! My husband and I were on the go from 9am until after 5pm, when we were late for the limo to the hall. I was altering my bridesmaids dress as she did my hair and I did my makeup as she tied up my dress. It was pure chaos. We finally got into the limo with our friends, there were 10 of us, and made our way to the hall. Stopping for booze at the corner liquor store on the way of course.
The night was great and we had a blast seeing everyone, eating Indian food and cupcakes and dancing. After 11pm the party really picked up and we had some great laughs.
Sunday we hosted a brunch at our house for about 20 family and we made batches of homemade pancakes, bacon and eggs. It was insane trying to feed everyone at once but we got it done. Team work ftw! My husband and I work really well together. We had three babies at our place and it was very cute to have them crawling all over. Baby Maralynn was learning to walk in our livingroom! Yay Maralynn!
By 530pm eveyone had gone and we were asleep in our livingroom by 630! It was a busy and crazy weekend and we loved every minute of it. We got to see so many people whom we love! Organized chaos as my husband put it. Life is grand.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Fitness Testing
Yesterday I began my new pilates class at work I've lunch hours. It was an okay workout. A bit easier than other pilates classes I have taken, but I'm just glad to get away from my desk for an hour and get some exercise.
Today at lunch I had an appointment to do fitness testing at the Bikini Bootcamp office with my soon-to-be trainer Terese.
From my office it was just over 2km, so I ran intervals on the c25k program there. While at their offices, I did 5 minutes of stepups onto a 6 level step platform, did 75 squats, did 15 big girl pushups, and then proceeded to do situps until the trainer had to tell me to stop. I was also measured, which was not to my liking, as knowing that you're big and fat is not the most fun thing in the world. After all the testing was done, I ran intervals back to my office. Sweaty and tired, I changed, washed up and got back to work.
It feels good to get fitness into my days. My plan seems to be working. Now if I can find a good dietician I'd be all set!
Tomorrow I train at Gold's gym with Tanya and then it's time to party on Saturday! Our wedding reception is going to be a great time. I can't wait to see everyone!
Today at lunch I had an appointment to do fitness testing at the Bikini Bootcamp office with my soon-to-be trainer Terese.
From my office it was just over 2km, so I ran intervals on the c25k program there. While at their offices, I did 5 minutes of stepups onto a 6 level step platform, did 75 squats, did 15 big girl pushups, and then proceeded to do situps until the trainer had to tell me to stop. I was also measured, which was not to my liking, as knowing that you're big and fat is not the most fun thing in the world. After all the testing was done, I ran intervals back to my office. Sweaty and tired, I changed, washed up and got back to work.
It feels good to get fitness into my days. My plan seems to be working. Now if I can find a good dietician I'd be all set!
Tomorrow I train at Gold's gym with Tanya and then it's time to party on Saturday! Our wedding reception is going to be a great time. I can't wait to see everyone!
Monday, April 12, 2010
Doggie Run & A Core Class
Yesterday was Sunday. Normally Sundays are my lazy day. But. This week I consumed massive quanities of cadbury mini eggs... Or guilt eggs as I now will refer to them...and was hoping to burn off a tiny fraction of the total bajillion calories.
So I hooked up my doggie and she and I went for a 3.2km run around our neighbourhood. Well a walk/jog/run. Whatever you get the idea. I ran to week 2 day 1 of the couch to 5km program. I think it was run 90 seconds, walk 2 minutes and repeat, but I sometimes cheat and run more often and whenever I feel like it instead. I'll just call the c25k program a guideline. River, that's my doggie, loved the run. She only dead stopped twice and that was the fault of other bad doggies talking to her. I hope to take her out again soon.
I was lectured on the badness of guilt eggs by a coworker today and I know that they are bad. Bad, bad eggs. But they taste so yummy and even though it will take a month to burn off the evidence, the in the moment, the glory is too much to battle for one person alone.
Besides, my husband, who I will now refer to as the guilt egg provider, keeps buying bags of them and bringing them home. As if they are a staple item like milk or bread, and I may need them to survive. The thought is nice but not quite in the right place. Bringing home the guilt eggs. Not quite the same as bringing home the bacon..
So now onto today's workout. A new session of our work lunch exercise program began today. I'm enrolled in core class on Mondays. It was quite fun, although after Jillian's workouts this past month, it was very easy at times. I'm noticing changes in fitness level and it can only help to prepare me for the bootcamp ass kicking I have coming to me starting end of the month.
So getting back to the guilt eggs. My plan is to stare them down tonight and not allow even one of them will reach my tastebuds. It is a tough challenge, involving lots of pacing, glaring and Jedi mind tricks. I will show them who's boss...
So I hooked up my doggie and she and I went for a 3.2km run around our neighbourhood. Well a walk/jog/run. Whatever you get the idea. I ran to week 2 day 1 of the couch to 5km program. I think it was run 90 seconds, walk 2 minutes and repeat, but I sometimes cheat and run more often and whenever I feel like it instead. I'll just call the c25k program a guideline. River, that's my doggie, loved the run. She only dead stopped twice and that was the fault of other bad doggies talking to her. I hope to take her out again soon.
I was lectured on the badness of guilt eggs by a coworker today and I know that they are bad. Bad, bad eggs. But they taste so yummy and even though it will take a month to burn off the evidence, the in the moment, the glory is too much to battle for one person alone.
Besides, my husband, who I will now refer to as the guilt egg provider, keeps buying bags of them and bringing them home. As if they are a staple item like milk or bread, and I may need them to survive. The thought is nice but not quite in the right place. Bringing home the guilt eggs. Not quite the same as bringing home the bacon..
So now onto today's workout. A new session of our work lunch exercise program began today. I'm enrolled in core class on Mondays. It was quite fun, although after Jillian's workouts this past month, it was very easy at times. I'm noticing changes in fitness level and it can only help to prepare me for the bootcamp ass kicking I have coming to me starting end of the month.
So getting back to the guilt eggs. My plan is to stare them down tonight and not allow even one of them will reach my tastebuds. It is a tough challenge, involving lots of pacing, glaring and Jedi mind tricks. I will show them who's boss...
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Training Day
This morning I went over to Gold's Gym for training with Tanya. She and I worked on arms and abs again for an hour. I am currently trying to get my arms in tip top shape for our wedding reception next weekend. I find the workouts a bit short, but I guess time flies when you're having fun. I enjoy our weekly sessions and do whatever she throws at me. Hoping I can lift my shoulders tomorrow..
Speaking of our reception, my husband and I spent most of our day today getting errands done in preparation. We ordered dessert, ordered liquor, had a meeting with the decorator to confirm the decor, booked a limo, bought all the bartending tools we will need for the evening, got PAL insurance set up and went through photos to create a slideshow. Tomorrow is another full day of planning, going through the photos again to have some printed, testing the projector and fun stuff like that. I can't wait for it all to come together. It will be a wonderful evening.
I may just veg out tomorrow after all the tasks are completed, and of course chow down on left over easter candy...
Speaking of our reception, my husband and I spent most of our day today getting errands done in preparation. We ordered dessert, ordered liquor, had a meeting with the decorator to confirm the decor, booked a limo, bought all the bartending tools we will need for the evening, got PAL insurance set up and went through photos to create a slideshow. Tomorrow is another full day of planning, going through the photos again to have some printed, testing the projector and fun stuff like that. I can't wait for it all to come together. It will be a wonderful evening.
I may just veg out tomorrow after all the tasks are completed, and of course chow down on left over easter candy...
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
More Running
Today at lunch break I went for a run again. Week 1 day 3 of the couch to 5km program. 60 second run with 90 second walk and repeat.
It started out feeling difficult. My legs were like cement and I couldn't get into a rhythm. After awhile, I eventually found my stride. It's just too bad that it wasn't until the end of my workout 40 minutes later.
Okay, so I don't exactly follow the program. Instead I use it as a minimum guideline. I run when I feel like it sometimes and longer than the 60 seconds that the program calls for in week one. I also jog through the cooldown. It is very freeing.
I'm sure I run like a dork, or at least that's how I picutre myself. It seems like everyone can tell I'm new at it. Maybe that's not the case. Anyhow I'm proud to say I've been getting in exercise this non-structured week and it feels good.
I've also been getting in a lot of leftover Easter candy, but that's another story.
It started out feeling difficult. My legs were like cement and I couldn't get into a rhythm. After awhile, I eventually found my stride. It's just too bad that it wasn't until the end of my workout 40 minutes later.
Okay, so I don't exactly follow the program. Instead I use it as a minimum guideline. I run when I feel like it sometimes and longer than the 60 seconds that the program calls for in week one. I also jog through the cooldown. It is very freeing.
I'm sure I run like a dork, or at least that's how I picutre myself. It seems like everyone can tell I'm new at it. Maybe that's not the case. Anyhow I'm proud to say I've been getting in exercise this non-structured week and it feels good.
I've also been getting in a lot of leftover Easter candy, but that's another story.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Learning to Run
Today I am back in the swing of things after a lazy Sunday of lounging around the house and playing World of Warcraft. Yes. I am a geek. Don't judge me.
I spent my lunch hour running along the river pathways downtown. I use the couch to 5km running app which tells me when to walk and run intervals while it plays music from my iPhone. Love it.
I'm learning to run. I know that sounds weird. It's odd to think about learning to do something that I've been doing since I was a child. Something so primal that our ancestors did with ease.
Running isn't as simple as one would think. It takes practice and studying. You need proper clothing and shoes, the easy part. You need proper form and stride and hand positioning, the difficult part. It's those moments when you're running down a path enjoying the scenery, breathing in the fresh air, with the sun on your face and you're actually doing it all on your own, that are seriously impowering.
I think I may make a small side hobby of running when I can. In between the rest of my fitness schedule.
Now onto a night of Indian cuisine, maybe some recorded tv shows or more Warcraft.
I spent my lunch hour running along the river pathways downtown. I use the couch to 5km running app which tells me when to walk and run intervals while it plays music from my iPhone. Love it.
I'm learning to run. I know that sounds weird. It's odd to think about learning to do something that I've been doing since I was a child. Something so primal that our ancestors did with ease.
Running isn't as simple as one would think. It takes practice and studying. You need proper clothing and shoes, the easy part. You need proper form and stride and hand positioning, the difficult part. It's those moments when you're running down a path enjoying the scenery, breathing in the fresh air, with the sun on your face and you're actually doing it all on your own, that are seriously impowering.
I think I may make a small side hobby of running when I can. In between the rest of my fitness schedule.
Now onto a night of Indian cuisine, maybe some recorded tv shows or more Warcraft.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Sunday, Lazy Sunday
Yesterday was the finale of my 30 day fitness project, and my personal trainer told me to take rest days in between workouts, so today is supposed to be a lazy Sunday.
Though I feel like I should workout...
Last night my husband and I hosted Easter dinner at our place. A bunch of really good friends came over and we ate and ate and ate. It was a great time. We made almost everything entirely from scratch. My husband did a great job cooking. The starters were raw veggies with homemade dip, and a selection of nuts. Dinner was a spread including, a huge ham with pineapple glaze, cheesy scalloped potatoes from scratch, mashed potatoes, seasoned yams, zucchini with spices, and cauilflower. Our friends brought salad and buns to top it all off. Then came desert. A homemade berry cheesecake and pecan pie and a triffle from a guest as well. All and all a great feast of a meal.
But today was a rest day and I spent it puttering on the computer and trying to get rid of this awful cough I've got happening. Will be good to be back to normal soon.
Hope everyone had a lovely Easter weekend with friends and family.
Though I feel like I should workout...
Last night my husband and I hosted Easter dinner at our place. A bunch of really good friends came over and we ate and ate and ate. It was a great time. We made almost everything entirely from scratch. My husband did a great job cooking. The starters were raw veggies with homemade dip, and a selection of nuts. Dinner was a spread including, a huge ham with pineapple glaze, cheesy scalloped potatoes from scratch, mashed potatoes, seasoned yams, zucchini with spices, and cauilflower. Our friends brought salad and buns to top it all off. Then came desert. A homemade berry cheesecake and pecan pie and a triffle from a guest as well. All and all a great feast of a meal.
But today was a rest day and I spent it puttering on the computer and trying to get rid of this awful cough I've got happening. Will be good to be back to normal soon.
Hope everyone had a lovely Easter weekend with friends and family.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Day 30 of 30: The Goal!
Today I woke up congested and coughing. I did my workout and I feel amazing. Thirty (30!) days of straight exercise. I commited to it and saw it through!
The 30 Day Shred DVD was a major motivator. Anyone can do 20-30 minutes of exercise per day. I proved this to myself and will be keeping it up, although Ina little more moderate amounts. My personal trainer has advised me to take breaks to let my muscles heal and rest. She recomended working out Monday to Fridays and resting on the weekends.
For the next two weeks I don't have a structured workout plan but will post about my fitness to keep myself accountable. By the end of the month I will be busy with Core Class, Pilates Class, Bikini Bootcamp twice a week and, of course, training on Fridays with Tanya.
Thanks to everyone for the wonderful support. A special thanks to my darling husband who helped motivate me.
Day 30 of 30 COMPLETE!!!
The 30 Day Shred DVD was a major motivator. Anyone can do 20-30 minutes of exercise per day. I proved this to myself and will be keeping it up, although Ina little more moderate amounts. My personal trainer has advised me to take breaks to let my muscles heal and rest. She recomended working out Monday to Fridays and resting on the weekends.
For the next two weeks I don't have a structured workout plan but will post about my fitness to keep myself accountable. By the end of the month I will be busy with Core Class, Pilates Class, Bikini Bootcamp twice a week and, of course, training on Fridays with Tanya.
Thanks to everyone for the wonderful support. A special thanks to my darling husband who helped motivate me.
Day 30 of 30 COMPLETE!!!
Friday, April 2, 2010
Day 29 of 30: Doggie Day
This morning I woke up early, at 8am, and jumped right into my workout with Jillian. I still have to pause the DVD a few times to catch my breath, but have been getting more endurance little by little. One more day to complete my first fitness project. It feels good to accomplish something if I put my mind(& body) into it.
Last night our dog, River, had a doggie sleep over with her friend Tola.
The girls ran around playing in the backyard, spent some time chewing rawhide bones, played ball and tug and just had a great time. Tola was a great house guest and a really entertaining dog to have around. She's so full of energy and tries to eat everything! We are really happy that River has a new friend!
Late morning I headed to Gold's Gym to workout with my trainer Tanya. We did an hour of circut training. Today it was a leg workout, with lunges, stairs, wall squats, suicide runs, and a bit of abs tossed in. I'm really loving training with Tanya! I always feel so positive after our workouts.
The afternoon was filled with errands, a bit of shopping and then washing the truck. Now it look respectable again. Here's a couple of photos of our new 2010 F-150 Platinum.
Tola's parents came to take her home, and River is going to sleep for a few days to recover from puppy-overdrive. Tonight is date night at our house. My lovely husband is cooking dinner and we are planning to settle in and watch a few movies. Life is good.
Day 29 completed!!
Last night our dog, River, had a doggie sleep over with her friend Tola.
The girls ran around playing in the backyard, spent some time chewing rawhide bones, played ball and tug and just had a great time. Tola was a great house guest and a really entertaining dog to have around. She's so full of energy and tries to eat everything! We are really happy that River has a new friend!
Late morning I headed to Gold's Gym to workout with my trainer Tanya. We did an hour of circut training. Today it was a leg workout, with lunges, stairs, wall squats, suicide runs, and a bit of abs tossed in. I'm really loving training with Tanya! I always feel so positive after our workouts.
The afternoon was filled with errands, a bit of shopping and then washing the truck. Now it look respectable again. Here's a couple of photos of our new 2010 F-150 Platinum.
Tola's parents came to take her home, and River is going to sleep for a few days to recover from puppy-overdrive. Tonight is date night at our house. My lovely husband is cooking dinner and we are planning to settle in and watch a few movies. Life is good.
Day 29 completed!!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Day 28 of 30: Nutrition Help!
So I have now been doing the 30 day shred for almost 30 days and I am actually up in weight from where I began. My endurance and strength levels seem to be improving which is nice. However, not exactly the goal I was aiming for. For awhile there I thought that I was seeing a difference in how my clothes fit. Now I think I may be back to square one. Or it feels like it today anyhow. I'm hoping that I actually am gaining muscle mass and that I will tone up some over the next few weeks. Maybe I just don't see it because I see myself everyday. Hah.
My new food plan is to track what I eat, which I am currently not good at, and then reassess and adjust as I can. A real certified nutritionist my be in order. I don't have any vices to give up so I'm screwed there. I don't have the daily latte or chocolate bar to cut out. I already thought that I was eating pretty well.
A typical day for me might look something like this:
Breakfast:
1 cup dry cereal, 1 danactive yogurt drink
Morning Snack:
A piece of fruit and/or a fat free yogurt
Lunch:
Soup or salad, occasionally a sandwich
Afternoon Snack:
Granola bar
Supper:
This is where the day gets tricky. Anything from meat and veggies, to tortillas, to salads, to pizza. Most are frozen dinners since I was doing Jenny Craig for so long.
Desert:
1 cup berries with fat free whip cream, or a Jenny desert pre portioned, to a bit of chocolate.
So clearly in writing that out, I have trouble with dinners and desert. Basically my at home meals. I'll work on it. I need to plan some healthy dishes that I can make in a short amount of time and will be filling. Any healthy low fat recipes are appreciated!
This afternoon I got home thnking "Why bother?" and seriously considered ordering a big greasy pizza for dinner. I know, bad attitude, but it is hard feeling out of control of yourself. Being a control freak, even harder. I know I can get this balance right. I just haven't gotten there yet. I always assume other people have it so together and I'm like "how do you do it?" but that may not be the case either. Maybe it's a daily struggle for everyone.
Third last workout of this 30 day project and I feel great that I have been true to myself. I haven't worked out consistently like this since highschool. I have had the thought that my body may get acustomed to it, and I'll gain fat like mad, if I ever don't workout everyday. I'll build enough muscle to try and make sure that doesn't happen. My ultimate goal is to feel and look good.
I didn't order the greasy pizza, in case anyone was wondering. I made a French onion soup from M&M Meats, with crackers, tortillas and a bit of broccoili. Tomorrows goal: Eat less carbs...
Day 28 completed.
My new food plan is to track what I eat, which I am currently not good at, and then reassess and adjust as I can. A real certified nutritionist my be in order. I don't have any vices to give up so I'm screwed there. I don't have the daily latte or chocolate bar to cut out. I already thought that I was eating pretty well.
A typical day for me might look something like this:
Breakfast:
1 cup dry cereal, 1 danactive yogurt drink
Morning Snack:
A piece of fruit and/or a fat free yogurt
Lunch:
Soup or salad, occasionally a sandwich
Afternoon Snack:
Granola bar
Supper:
This is where the day gets tricky. Anything from meat and veggies, to tortillas, to salads, to pizza. Most are frozen dinners since I was doing Jenny Craig for so long.
Desert:
1 cup berries with fat free whip cream, or a Jenny desert pre portioned, to a bit of chocolate.
So clearly in writing that out, I have trouble with dinners and desert. Basically my at home meals. I'll work on it. I need to plan some healthy dishes that I can make in a short amount of time and will be filling. Any healthy low fat recipes are appreciated!
This afternoon I got home thnking "Why bother?" and seriously considered ordering a big greasy pizza for dinner. I know, bad attitude, but it is hard feeling out of control of yourself. Being a control freak, even harder. I know I can get this balance right. I just haven't gotten there yet. I always assume other people have it so together and I'm like "how do you do it?" but that may not be the case either. Maybe it's a daily struggle for everyone.
Third last workout of this 30 day project and I feel great that I have been true to myself. I haven't worked out consistently like this since highschool. I have had the thought that my body may get acustomed to it, and I'll gain fat like mad, if I ever don't workout everyday. I'll build enough muscle to try and make sure that doesn't happen. My ultimate goal is to feel and look good.
I didn't order the greasy pizza, in case anyone was wondering. I made a French onion soup from M&M Meats, with crackers, tortillas and a bit of broccoili. Tomorrows goal: Eat less carbs...
Day 28 completed.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Day 27 of 30: Sick Day
This morning I went into work and was still feeling under the weather. I took some more dayquil, worked until late morning and then ended up going home sick to rest. My throat and ears continue to ache and now my chest is also not doing very well. I dislike feeling this way. Maybe some exercise will help. I had a nice long nap this afternoon and am taking it easy for now.
This evening, the 30 day shred was very slow. I took it easy doing more of the modified moves. My husband did the workout along with me again. I love that he is also trying to be healthier. It always feels so good to get in exercise. Afterwards it feels so good and is exhilirating. I'm also hoping that getting in a bit of exercise will help in fighting off this oncoming cold.
Now I can rest for the remainder of the night, in hopes to be feeling somewhat better, for a long day of meetings tomorrow.
Day 27 complete.
This evening, the 30 day shred was very slow. I took it easy doing more of the modified moves. My husband did the workout along with me again. I love that he is also trying to be healthier. It always feels so good to get in exercise. Afterwards it feels so good and is exhilirating. I'm also hoping that getting in a bit of exercise will help in fighting off this oncoming cold.
Now I can rest for the remainder of the night, in hopes to be feeling somewhat better, for a long day of meetings tomorrow.
Day 27 complete.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Day 26 of 30: The Rewrite
I wrote a long blog for today, about a bunch of things. I'll reiterate them here.
I wrote about my moms healthy life habits, how it's taken me 29 years to realize what wisdom she has to offer for a healthy lifestyle. My mom was always an active mom. She did fitness classes, played basketball with me, and there is not a day I can remember when she didn't walk our dog. She always fed me healthy food as well, veggies were a big part of my life growing up. I only got chips, cake and junk food on birthdays/special occasions(or at Grandma's house.. shh don't tell my mom). I only got soda pop at friend's houses, my mom never brought that kind of junk into our house. Thanks mom, for all the lessons you have given me. I truly have the best mom ever.
I wrote about the Jenny Craig program and how it's basis is on processed pre-packaged foods. Which is scary and teaches you nothing about eating for life or life in the real world. The old adage comes to mind, "Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he will eat for life." Over two years time, I spent an excess of money on the program and finally have woken up to better alternatives. To Jenny Craig I have this to say: "Thank you for the expensive life lessons, I can take it from here."
I wrote about how I am fighting off a cold, ears, chest and throat and how I still managed to get in my daily Jillian workout. My husband did the workout with me again this evening and how proud I continue to be of him. He does so much in life for us and doesn't even realize how much all the little things mean to me.
I wrote about all of these things and then my iPhone app for blogger crashed. I lost all of my detailed writing. So that's the post in a nutshell. I'm sure the first version was much more interesting. The important part is that I logged my fitness day 26.
Day 26 complete!
I wrote about my moms healthy life habits, how it's taken me 29 years to realize what wisdom she has to offer for a healthy lifestyle. My mom was always an active mom. She did fitness classes, played basketball with me, and there is not a day I can remember when she didn't walk our dog. She always fed me healthy food as well, veggies were a big part of my life growing up. I only got chips, cake and junk food on birthdays/special occasions(or at Grandma's house.. shh don't tell my mom). I only got soda pop at friend's houses, my mom never brought that kind of junk into our house. Thanks mom, for all the lessons you have given me. I truly have the best mom ever.
I wrote about the Jenny Craig program and how it's basis is on processed pre-packaged foods. Which is scary and teaches you nothing about eating for life or life in the real world. The old adage comes to mind, "Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he will eat for life." Over two years time, I spent an excess of money on the program and finally have woken up to better alternatives. To Jenny Craig I have this to say: "Thank you for the expensive life lessons, I can take it from here."
I wrote about how I am fighting off a cold, ears, chest and throat and how I still managed to get in my daily Jillian workout. My husband did the workout with me again this evening and how proud I continue to be of him. He does so much in life for us and doesn't even realize how much all the little things mean to me.
I wrote about all of these things and then my iPhone app for blogger crashed. I lost all of my detailed writing. So that's the post in a nutshell. I'm sure the first version was much more interesting. The important part is that I logged my fitness day 26.
Day 26 complete!
Monday, March 29, 2010
Day 25 of 30: Lunch Run
This morning I went to take our truck in to get the alarm fixed. The ford dealerhip had installed an alarm system for us when we bought it in January but the alarm has never worked properly. I got out to our truck, parked on the street in front of our house, and noticed that someone had been inside. All of our belongings were thrown around. All our change was missing. The disturbing part is that someone would have the audacity to go into our vehicle. It's disgusting and violating. We didn't lose much but that's not the point. I'd like to think that whoever did this will get payback in the form of a bitch called karma.
Finally got the truck to the dealership and hopefully they will properly install the shock sensor today so this never happens again. I made it into work late this morning, but I made it and that's what matters. Today is all about the little wins. I'm fighting off a sore throat and a bunch of guilt cookies from last night. I'm trying.
On a happy note, only 5 days left until I can say that I've completed the 30 Day Shred! I might actually miss it, just a little bit.
At lunch today I decided to try out week one, day one of the Couch to 5km program. I got my workout clothes on and at 12:30 left my office and headed for the river pathway nearby. It was full of people, walking, jogging, running, cycling, and was interesting to see. I ran for 60 seconds and then walked for 90 seconds for a total of 30 minutes. I even ran a bit extra after the program was completed since I was still a few minutes away from the office. I returned tired and yet refreshed.
After work I rode the c-train over to the dealership and picked up our truck. At home my husband and I spent 30 minutes doing workout 3. It was difficult today. Yesterday seemed easier somehow. Jillian is not getting any nicer as we go along...
Now for a relaxed evening at home with a blanket, a cat and the remote.
Day 25 complete!
Finally got the truck to the dealership and hopefully they will properly install the shock sensor today so this never happens again. I made it into work late this morning, but I made it and that's what matters. Today is all about the little wins. I'm fighting off a sore throat and a bunch of guilt cookies from last night. I'm trying.
On a happy note, only 5 days left until I can say that I've completed the 30 Day Shred! I might actually miss it, just a little bit.
At lunch today I decided to try out week one, day one of the Couch to 5km program. I got my workout clothes on and at 12:30 left my office and headed for the river pathway nearby. It was full of people, walking, jogging, running, cycling, and was interesting to see. I ran for 60 seconds and then walked for 90 seconds for a total of 30 minutes. I even ran a bit extra after the program was completed since I was still a few minutes away from the office. I returned tired and yet refreshed.
After work I rode the c-train over to the dealership and picked up our truck. At home my husband and I spent 30 minutes doing workout 3. It was difficult today. Yesterday seemed easier somehow. Jillian is not getting any nicer as we go along...
Now for a relaxed evening at home with a blanket, a cat and the remote.
Day 25 complete!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Day 24 of 30: Puppy Playdate
This morning was great. I woke up at 8 am, which seems to be becoming a new habit for me. No more sleeping until noon. Regular sleeping patterns really help. I got in my daily workout with Jillian before noon, and it felt great. I was able to bust out all of the walking planks, on my toes, without stopping! I only had to modify the jumping lunges and rockstars today due to my knee. Which by the way, is doing much better and seems to be healing up nicely. It was a good feeling to get through workout 3 and think that it actually wasn't that difficult. Things are getting easier compared to day one of workout 3. I'd like to go back when I'm done and do workout 1 again. I bet it would be simple to get through now.
The workout list, in case anyone was wondering, for workout #3 includes: walking planks, supermans, mountain climbers, sumo hops, pike crunches, scissor crunches, dumbell cleans, jumping lunges, dumbell shadow boxing, butt kickers with dumbells, jumping jacks with dumbells, situps, walking pushups, plank rows with leg raises, jump squats, rockstar jumps & side plank raises. All this in a half hour including warmup and cool down.
In the afternoon our dog, River, had a playdate with our friends' doggie, Tola! Our friends came over for a visit and the dogs met for the first time. The girls got along great after a few minutes of excitement and sniffing. They ran around the backyard playing for awhile, had a lot of treats and then we all went for a nice long walk around our neighbourhood. We had a great visit with our friends. Best part of all, River has a new buddy!
Day 24 fitness completed!
The workout list, in case anyone was wondering, for workout #3 includes: walking planks, supermans, mountain climbers, sumo hops, pike crunches, scissor crunches, dumbell cleans, jumping lunges, dumbell shadow boxing, butt kickers with dumbells, jumping jacks with dumbells, situps, walking pushups, plank rows with leg raises, jump squats, rockstar jumps & side plank raises. All this in a half hour including warmup and cool down.
In the afternoon our dog, River, had a playdate with our friends' doggie, Tola! Our friends came over for a visit and the dogs met for the first time. The girls got along great after a few minutes of excitement and sniffing. They ran around the backyard playing for awhile, had a lot of treats and then we all went for a nice long walk around our neighbourhood. We had a great visit with our friends. Best part of all, River has a new buddy!
Day 24 fitness completed!
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Day 23 of 30: 5km Walk
Today was a perfect Saturday. I woke up early and checked on Halo, then went upstairs to workout. Jillian's workout was brutal today and I had to keep pausing the DVD to rest. I couldn't bring myself to wake up my husband. He was sleeping so peacefully. So I did the workout by myself this morning. I made it through the workout and got ready for my day.
This afternoon we went to an orientation for the Weekend to End Women's Cancer. My husband and I signed up to walk the 60km this coming July. We headed down to Eau Claire, downtown, for the 5km training walk. We picked up our pink walk t-shirts and also visited the Running Room to buy new shoes for the 60km. Time enough to break them in before July.
On our way home we stopped in at Costco and wandered around for a few hours. It is a dangerous place for the bank account! We went in to buy another of Jillian's DVDs and came out with a cart load overflowing of household items, worth that of our firstborn child.
We brought home our haul and spent almost an hour getting it into the house and put away.
We went over to visit with our neighbours for the evening. We ate really well and had some good laughs. All and all a great Saturday.
Day 23 complete.
This afternoon we went to an orientation for the Weekend to End Women's Cancer. My husband and I signed up to walk the 60km this coming July. We headed down to Eau Claire, downtown, for the 5km training walk. We picked up our pink walk t-shirts and also visited the Running Room to buy new shoes for the 60km. Time enough to break them in before July.
On our way home we stopped in at Costco and wandered around for a few hours. It is a dangerous place for the bank account! We went in to buy another of Jillian's DVDs and came out with a cart load overflowing of household items, worth that of our firstborn child.
We brought home our haul and spent almost an hour getting it into the house and put away.
We went over to visit with our neighbours for the evening. We ate really well and had some good laughs. All and all a great Saturday.
Day 23 complete.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Day 22 of 30: Halo
This morning I woke up quite early for a day off. 8am. My kitty cat, Halo was going into the vet for dental cleaning and I couldn't sleep. My wonderful husband took Halo to the vet for me, so I wouldn't be upset.
I got out of bed and started the 30 day shred dvd. Workout 3 is really difficult. I've been taking it easy and doing some modified moves so I don't hurt my knee any further. Only 8 days left. I can do this and it feels so good.
After my workout I went to Jenny Craig for my weigh in. Only down a half a pound this week, even with daily exercise. Nothing worth cheering over. The consultant there seems to think that I am not building muscle but am just eating off plan. I thought I did really well this past week and was really proud until she burst my bubble. I'm getting a bit fed up of eating their frozen meals and having to feel bad about myself every friday morning. I'd ideally like some support for my progress even if I'm having ups and downs. My apologies for the ranting. My goal is to find the right balance of food and exercise. For the next week my plan is to log all of my food on my iphone and I will see what it says for intake vs output. Something has got to be wrong here. It's like our friend so eloquently says, "Eat less, Do more". It should really be that simple shouldn't it?
Next, I headed to Gold's Gym to see Tanya. I like working out with her. She gives me tasks that really work my muscles but don't hurt my joints. She helped to bring back some of my positive thinking. We were on arms and abs again this week due to my knee injury. She suggested that I try a knee brace. So, on my way home I stopped in at the drug store and picked one up. I spent the afternoon resting with my knee in a brace and so far the pain is still persistent. Time for some ice. I hope this clears up soon. It seems to ache less when I'm moving and stiffen up when I rest. I'll keep monitoring it.
Halo came home finally at 5pm! He's doing well and his blood work results were all good too. I'm so glad to know he's healthy. Just having him home safe where he is supposed to be is comforting. We have a very long history together and his start in life was not so good, the things he has overcome are amazing to me, but that's a whole other story. Welcome back home Halo! We missed you buddy!
Day 22 complete.
I got out of bed and started the 30 day shred dvd. Workout 3 is really difficult. I've been taking it easy and doing some modified moves so I don't hurt my knee any further. Only 8 days left. I can do this and it feels so good.
After my workout I went to Jenny Craig for my weigh in. Only down a half a pound this week, even with daily exercise. Nothing worth cheering over. The consultant there seems to think that I am not building muscle but am just eating off plan. I thought I did really well this past week and was really proud until she burst my bubble. I'm getting a bit fed up of eating their frozen meals and having to feel bad about myself every friday morning. I'd ideally like some support for my progress even if I'm having ups and downs. My apologies for the ranting. My goal is to find the right balance of food and exercise. For the next week my plan is to log all of my food on my iphone and I will see what it says for intake vs output. Something has got to be wrong here. It's like our friend so eloquently says, "Eat less, Do more". It should really be that simple shouldn't it?
Next, I headed to Gold's Gym to see Tanya. I like working out with her. She gives me tasks that really work my muscles but don't hurt my joints. She helped to bring back some of my positive thinking. We were on arms and abs again this week due to my knee injury. She suggested that I try a knee brace. So, on my way home I stopped in at the drug store and picked one up. I spent the afternoon resting with my knee in a brace and so far the pain is still persistent. Time for some ice. I hope this clears up soon. It seems to ache less when I'm moving and stiffen up when I rest. I'll keep monitoring it.
Halo came home finally at 5pm! He's doing well and his blood work results were all good too. I'm so glad to know he's healthy. Just having him home safe where he is supposed to be is comforting. We have a very long history together and his start in life was not so good, the things he has overcome are amazing to me, but that's a whole other story. Welcome back home Halo! We missed you buddy!
Day 22 complete.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Day 21 of 30: Workout #3
Today is the first day of workout 3. W3D1. It was intense! A lot of plyometrics, which are tiring. I loved it. My husband did the workout with me again. Three days in a row. I'm so very proud of him.
We fit in our daily workout after getting home from work which has become a newly loved habit. I am a bit afraid of what will happen once day 30 is done, so this weekend we are going to pick up a few new workout DVDs to keep the motivation going. I'm excited to try new workouts!
I've been noticing that I am tired much earlier in the evenings lately. I think the exercise does help. I'm also working on trying to get 8 hours of sleep per night. I've heard that it is much easier to lose weight if you get a full nights rest. Wow, can't hurt to try. That would also explain why as a teenager I was in top shape and could eat whatever I wanted... I was lazy and slept well. I'm totally onto something here! The key is sleep! Who knew?
Tomorrow morning my baby kitty cat, Halo, has to go to the vet for a dental cleaning. He will be under anesthetic and I'm nervous for him. I really need everything to go well and him to be okay and come home safe. He is almost ten years old now and so dear to my heart. Please send us positive thoughts.
Day 21 completed.
We fit in our daily workout after getting home from work which has become a newly loved habit. I am a bit afraid of what will happen once day 30 is done, so this weekend we are going to pick up a few new workout DVDs to keep the motivation going. I'm excited to try new workouts!
I've been noticing that I am tired much earlier in the evenings lately. I think the exercise does help. I'm also working on trying to get 8 hours of sleep per night. I've heard that it is much easier to lose weight if you get a full nights rest. Wow, can't hurt to try. That would also explain why as a teenager I was in top shape and could eat whatever I wanted... I was lazy and slept well. I'm totally onto something here! The key is sleep! Who knew?
Tomorrow morning my baby kitty cat, Halo, has to go to the vet for a dental cleaning. He will be under anesthetic and I'm nervous for him. I really need everything to go well and him to be okay and come home safe. He is almost ten years old now and so dear to my heart. Please send us positive thoughts.
Day 21 completed.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Day 20 of 30: Zombie Willpower
Welcome to Wednesday. Woke up feeling like a sack of bricks this morning. I need to find a way to get more than 5-6 hours of sleep on weeknights. I am trying! Life's is busy and on top of that, I'm a naturally born night owl. My poor Mom, who is a morning person, must have loved that while I was growing up. My theory isn't that I stay up too late, but rather that the mornings arrive too soon.
I'm still working on trying to help my left knee feel better. Tensor bandages don't seem to do much of anything. Ice helps for a bit, but I can't ice all day long. Tiger Balm, my esteemed friend, dulls the pain and makes my knee all cool and tingly but a few days of applying it and nothing has changed. I'm trying pain meds today and I'll see how that goes. It's very frusterating to have the drive to exercise, and then a knee that's set to foil your well laid plans. Evil left knee, I will not let you win!
This evening I took the BRT home on my normal hour-long-plus commute. I was feeling under the weather and just wanted to take a nice nap. I dragged myself upstairs to workout. Telling myself that 20 minutes is not really that long and with bribes of berries and chocolate as an evening treat.
I'm tired today. The plan is to hold the couch down for a few hours after working out a little. I don't even have enough energy to play video games! That's how zonked I am. I imagine this is how zombies feel everyday. I can now relate with their kind. Heavy arms, tired legs, slurred, babbled speech. I understand completely. Maybe they aren't actually zombies, but just really tired people. Think about it.
I will stop the crazy ranting now. Sleep will come early tonight. I can tell you that much.
On a more cheerful note, I resisted a whole bunch of offers for sweets today while at work. I stuck to my guns and turned down a long list of treats. I had an amazing amount of will power today. Chocolate guiness cake, chocolate chip cookies, homemade toffee, chocolate covered almonds & a cadbury creme egg were all offered to me today and all graciously declined. I've heard that fit feels better than sweets taste. Although, I did treat myself at the end of the day to a few dark chocolate cranberries but just a few.
Day 20, full of willpower & zombie-like fatigue, completed!
I'm still working on trying to help my left knee feel better. Tensor bandages don't seem to do much of anything. Ice helps for a bit, but I can't ice all day long. Tiger Balm, my esteemed friend, dulls the pain and makes my knee all cool and tingly but a few days of applying it and nothing has changed. I'm trying pain meds today and I'll see how that goes. It's very frusterating to have the drive to exercise, and then a knee that's set to foil your well laid plans. Evil left knee, I will not let you win!
This evening I took the BRT home on my normal hour-long-plus commute. I was feeling under the weather and just wanted to take a nice nap. I dragged myself upstairs to workout. Telling myself that 20 minutes is not really that long and with bribes of berries and chocolate as an evening treat.
I'm tired today. The plan is to hold the couch down for a few hours after working out a little. I don't even have enough energy to play video games! That's how zonked I am. I imagine this is how zombies feel everyday. I can now relate with their kind. Heavy arms, tired legs, slurred, babbled speech. I understand completely. Maybe they aren't actually zombies, but just really tired people. Think about it.
I will stop the crazy ranting now. Sleep will come early tonight. I can tell you that much.
On a more cheerful note, I resisted a whole bunch of offers for sweets today while at work. I stuck to my guns and turned down a long list of treats. I had an amazing amount of will power today. Chocolate guiness cake, chocolate chip cookies, homemade toffee, chocolate covered almonds & a cadbury creme egg were all offered to me today and all graciously declined. I've heard that fit feels better than sweets taste. Although, I did treat myself at the end of the day to a few dark chocolate cranberries but just a few.
Day 20, full of willpower & zombie-like fatigue, completed!
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Day 19 of 30: Home Early
This evening after work I received a ride home from a very nice co-worker. I actually made it home before 5:30! That has got to be a new record. I nomally commute on public transit and get home 6:30 or later.
I was home in time to fit in my daily workout and grab a shower before getting errands done. Tonight my husband completed workout #2 right along with me as well. I'm very proud of him! He tried his best to do all of the moves and at times was quite entertaining. It made the workout time seem so much shorter having him do it with me. I enjoyed it a lot.
After getting all cleaned up, we took our kitty cat to a vet appointment to have blood work done. The vet is making sure that he can handle being put under anasthetic. Pending good news, he will be going on Friday for a dental cleaning. He's almost ten years old and I want him to be healthy and live for many more years to come. Please send good vibes on Friday for us. I'll be worrying about him the whole day. He's my baby, Halo, and I love him so very much.
Well, day 19 wasn't so bad and only one more day of workout #2. Here's hoping workout #3 is lower impact (to help my knee heal up) and that it doesn't have so many plank moves in it! Going to have to wait and see...
Day 19 complete!
I was home in time to fit in my daily workout and grab a shower before getting errands done. Tonight my husband completed workout #2 right along with me as well. I'm very proud of him! He tried his best to do all of the moves and at times was quite entertaining. It made the workout time seem so much shorter having him do it with me. I enjoyed it a lot.
After getting all cleaned up, we took our kitty cat to a vet appointment to have blood work done. The vet is making sure that he can handle being put under anasthetic. Pending good news, he will be going on Friday for a dental cleaning. He's almost ten years old and I want him to be healthy and live for many more years to come. Please send good vibes on Friday for us. I'll be worrying about him the whole day. He's my baby, Halo, and I love him so very much.
Well, day 19 wasn't so bad and only one more day of workout #2. Here's hoping workout #3 is lower impact (to help my knee heal up) and that it doesn't have so many plank moves in it! Going to have to wait and see...
Day 19 complete!
Monday, March 22, 2010
Day 18 of 30: Class Signups
Today was a great day, and a not so great day. It started out rough, as most Mondays do. In their Monday kind of way. Dreary and sad. The weekend is over and you know you have the longest stretch of time of working hours between the now and the weekend.
Five hours of sleep on Sunday night didn't seem to help much with the motivation to get up and face the world. Tonight I will get at least 6. Tomorrow I'll aim for 7. Baby steps.
The day got better as Monday morning faded into the afternoon. After work I ran some errands with my husband and we bought him a beautiful humidor and went to a cheese shop. Yum!
I still managed to work up enough energy when we got home to fit in my daily workout routine. I'm finding that I have to really push myself to get moving and exercise and am hoping it will get easier and eventually become a loved habit. For now it's an internal struggle of wills.
I signed up again this year for Bikini Bootcamp starting end of April, two nights a week, and tomorrow morning am planning on registering for two new lunch hour classes at work. Pilates and Core Blast again. I'll stick with what I know. Also the only other classes that intrigued me were a bootcamp class, which may be too much like Bikini Bootcamp, and a spin class. Just thinking of the sweat from a spin class and no place to shower after lunch, that's just a bad combo all around for an outcome of grumpiness and bad afternoons in the office. Thanks but I'll pass.
Only 12 more days to go on this project. I should start planning my next fitness project soon. By end of April I may blog about lunch classes, bootcamp and personal training. That'll cover Mondays through Fridays anyhow. Saturday and Sunday I'll try running. In between projects I'll comit to getting physical exercise in some fashion everyday. Does walking my dog count?
Day 18 complete!
Five hours of sleep on Sunday night didn't seem to help much with the motivation to get up and face the world. Tonight I will get at least 6. Tomorrow I'll aim for 7. Baby steps.
The day got better as Monday morning faded into the afternoon. After work I ran some errands with my husband and we bought him a beautiful humidor and went to a cheese shop. Yum!
I still managed to work up enough energy when we got home to fit in my daily workout routine. I'm finding that I have to really push myself to get moving and exercise and am hoping it will get easier and eventually become a loved habit. For now it's an internal struggle of wills.
I signed up again this year for Bikini Bootcamp starting end of April, two nights a week, and tomorrow morning am planning on registering for two new lunch hour classes at work. Pilates and Core Blast again. I'll stick with what I know. Also the only other classes that intrigued me were a bootcamp class, which may be too much like Bikini Bootcamp, and a spin class. Just thinking of the sweat from a spin class and no place to shower after lunch, that's just a bad combo all around for an outcome of grumpiness and bad afternoons in the office. Thanks but I'll pass.
Only 12 more days to go on this project. I should start planning my next fitness project soon. By end of April I may blog about lunch classes, bootcamp and personal training. That'll cover Mondays through Fridays anyhow. Saturday and Sunday I'll try running. In between projects I'll comit to getting physical exercise in some fashion everyday. Does walking my dog count?
Day 18 complete!
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Day 17 of 30: Jubliations!
Today was basically a very lazy Sunday. Slept in until 11am. I know. Got up and bummed around the house for a bit and ate breakfast. Cut my husbands hair for him. Then around 2, I decided to workout.
It was rough trying to get motivated. Sundays are always hard it would seem. Or maybe its the years of being lazy catching up with me. I hear that old habits die hard, and I am living proof. I know it's only a 20 minute workout, with warm up and stretching added in on each end, but not something easily achieved on a Sunday. Today I just wanted to skip a day. Add it onto the end. Who would know? Take a rest day.
I didn't. I forced myself to get up and get moving if only for a short period of time. I would know, that's who. I am accountable to myself.
It always feels amazing to finish a workout, to acomplish something I set out to do. To be able to set a goal and keep at it is really empowering. I'm trying to focus day to day rather than counting down what I have left to go. I can finish this, sore knee and all. I will get through it even if I'm forced to do modified moves to help my knee.
After my daily workout, I showered, got dressed up, did my makeup and took an exceptionally long time at it if you ask my husband. We headed out the door to attend a family supper at Jubilations Dinner Theatre to celebrate Aunt Debbie and Jaime's birthdays this week. It was a very nice time and wonderful to spend time with family here in the city.
Tomorrow I'll get home from work and bust out workout #2, just like I have for past few days. In all it's plank-stinking glory I will do it!
Day 17 completed!
It was rough trying to get motivated. Sundays are always hard it would seem. Or maybe its the years of being lazy catching up with me. I hear that old habits die hard, and I am living proof. I know it's only a 20 minute workout, with warm up and stretching added in on each end, but not something easily achieved on a Sunday. Today I just wanted to skip a day. Add it onto the end. Who would know? Take a rest day.
I didn't. I forced myself to get up and get moving if only for a short period of time. I would know, that's who. I am accountable to myself.
It always feels amazing to finish a workout, to acomplish something I set out to do. To be able to set a goal and keep at it is really empowering. I'm trying to focus day to day rather than counting down what I have left to go. I can finish this, sore knee and all. I will get through it even if I'm forced to do modified moves to help my knee.
After my daily workout, I showered, got dressed up, did my makeup and took an exceptionally long time at it if you ask my husband. We headed out the door to attend a family supper at Jubilations Dinner Theatre to celebrate Aunt Debbie and Jaime's birthdays this week. It was a very nice time and wonderful to spend time with family here in the city.
Tomorrow I'll get home from work and bust out workout #2, just like I have for past few days. In all it's plank-stinking glory I will do it!
Day 17 completed!
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Day 16 of 30: Sore Knee
On the downward slide now. Only two weeks of workouts to go and I will have met my goal!
My knee has been bothering me. I twisted it working out I am sure, and oblique twists and jumping are not really helping. It's healing up but slowly. I guess whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger. I've been modifying some moves so they don't cause further pain or injury. I worked out this morning when I first got up and it feels good to get it over with and move onto my day. Ahhh.
This morning I got to sleep in and it was lovely. Looking forward to having the new blackout blinds we ordered. They come in a month, and will make our rooms nice and dark. Though then I may sleep all day..
I spent my afternoon trying to backup and reformat my secondary computer which crashed hard and only operates in safe mode currently. Not fun. Anyone who tells you it is, is a)Crazy, b)Insanely bored, c)Has no friends and nothing better to do or d)All of the above. After hours of backing up files onto USB sticks, I now get to spend my evening wiping the hard drive, reformatting and reloading programs. all in the hope of having a working computer once again. Then spending the next few weeks reloading all my programs as I discover that I've forgotten to reload them after the reformat. Yay!
Either way Day 16 of my 30 day fitness project is complete!!
My knee has been bothering me. I twisted it working out I am sure, and oblique twists and jumping are not really helping. It's healing up but slowly. I guess whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger. I've been modifying some moves so they don't cause further pain or injury. I worked out this morning when I first got up and it feels good to get it over with and move onto my day. Ahhh.
This morning I got to sleep in and it was lovely. Looking forward to having the new blackout blinds we ordered. They come in a month, and will make our rooms nice and dark. Though then I may sleep all day..
I spent my afternoon trying to backup and reformat my secondary computer which crashed hard and only operates in safe mode currently. Not fun. Anyone who tells you it is, is a)Crazy, b)Insanely bored, c)Has no friends and nothing better to do or d)All of the above. After hours of backing up files onto USB sticks, I now get to spend my evening wiping the hard drive, reformatting and reloading programs. all in the hope of having a working computer once again. Then spending the next few weeks reloading all my programs as I discover that I've forgotten to reload them after the reformat. Yay!
Either way Day 16 of my 30 day fitness project is complete!!
Friday, March 19, 2010
Day 15 of 30: Half Way There!
Halfway through!! I've worked out now fifteen days in a row!
This morning I weighed in at Jenny Craig. A bad start to my morning, but I guess I'm building muscle from all these workouts. Next week I hope to drop a few. I then hit the gym for my first workout with my new trainer Tanya.
Tanya turned out to be a wonderful trainer. I've now officially had three trainers at Gold's over the years and three at Bikini Bootcamp and I think I like Tanya the best so far. I mean this is only based on one day but here's hoping it's just as fun over the next few months.
After my workout at Gold's I went home and worked out to the 30 Day Shred. It was a bit rough, since it's mostly planks, and my Gold's workout was all arms and abs today. I am proud to say that I made it through. By then the afternoon was basically over.
We stayed in tonight and watched movies on the PVR together. Zombieland and then Planet 51. I know what you're thinking, an odd combination. But that's our style.
Day 15 complete!
This morning I weighed in at Jenny Craig. A bad start to my morning, but I guess I'm building muscle from all these workouts. Next week I hope to drop a few. I then hit the gym for my first workout with my new trainer Tanya.
Tanya turned out to be a wonderful trainer. I've now officially had three trainers at Gold's over the years and three at Bikini Bootcamp and I think I like Tanya the best so far. I mean this is only based on one day but here's hoping it's just as fun over the next few months.
After my workout at Gold's I went home and worked out to the 30 Day Shred. It was a bit rough, since it's mostly planks, and my Gold's workout was all arms and abs today. I am proud to say that I made it through. By then the afternoon was basically over.
We stayed in tonight and watched movies on the PVR together. Zombieland and then Planet 51. I know what you're thinking, an odd combination. But that's our style.
Day 15 complete!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Day 14 of 30: Lovely Facial
One month until our wedding reception here at home and we are getting organized. The evening will be filled with indian cuisine, music, deserts and booze. Almost 60 people have rsvp'd so far including kids. What makes a wedding reception better than having energetic kids? Of course they'll all be full of sugar and only makes it that much better. Looking forward to it.
At lunch hour I attended the last pilates class for the winter session. It was the most difficult class yet but I'm looking forward to seeing the results so I pushed on through it. Sign up for the next session begins Tuesday and classes start again mid April. Hoping to get into two more classes in the spring session. Maybe a spinning class if I can locate a shower facility. That would be a sweat-filled class for sure!
After work today I treated myself to a facial. It was heavenly and my reward to myself for making the halfway point in my fitness project. My poor skin gas been so sweaty from all the workouts. I bought a bunch of facial products for home as well.
I jumped on te BRT and headed home. Before dinner, I got in my daily dose of Jillian and tried my best not to pause the DVD or stop mid workout due to fatigue. I'm seeing changes and getting stronger. My endurance seems to be slowly increasing as well. However I need to find a good stretching video to do for 5-10 minutes aferwards. The stretching and the shower are the best parts of any workout. Shhh, don't tell anyone.
Day 14 complete!
At lunch hour I attended the last pilates class for the winter session. It was the most difficult class yet but I'm looking forward to seeing the results so I pushed on through it. Sign up for the next session begins Tuesday and classes start again mid April. Hoping to get into two more classes in the spring session. Maybe a spinning class if I can locate a shower facility. That would be a sweat-filled class for sure!
After work today I treated myself to a facial. It was heavenly and my reward to myself for making the halfway point in my fitness project. My poor skin gas been so sweaty from all the workouts. I bought a bunch of facial products for home as well.
I jumped on te BRT and headed home. Before dinner, I got in my daily dose of Jillian and tried my best not to pause the DVD or stop mid workout due to fatigue. I'm seeing changes and getting stronger. My endurance seems to be slowly increasing as well. However I need to find a good stretching video to do for 5-10 minutes aferwards. The stretching and the shower are the best parts of any workout. Shhh, don't tell anyone.
Day 14 complete!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Day 13 of 30: St. Patty's Day!
Happy Saint Patrick's Day!
Green has inately been my favorite colour since before I could talk. My mother tells me that as a child I always chose the green kiddie plastic cup to drink from, and always used up all my green crayon colours first out of the box. So it's just plain natural that I love St. Pattys Day in all it's beautiful green-ocity!
After work today I had some important tasks on my to-do list that I'd been putting off. My husband and I picked up my wedding rings from the jeweler, went grocery shopping at the Community Health Foods store, and visited Crate & Barrel to update our wedding reception registry. So needless to say, we ate out for supper. Normally quote scary! I ordered chicken, rice & veggies, proud of myself that I could be so heathy. Normally I flop and end up eating horribly greasy foods in restaurant situations. Then I achieve the maximum guilt level. I refer to this phenomenon as "Guilt Fries", "Guilt Candy", or "Guilt Pizza". You get the idea.
When we finally got home after 9pm I was exhausted. All I wanted to do was plop myself down on the couch and eat snacks while watching tv. Instead I met up with Mrs. Jillian and we rocked out a sweat-filled 20 minutes.
Just to clear things up, 20 minutes is not really very long at all. If you're playing video games, watching tv, or generally doing anything that requires laziness. However, 20 minutes seems like a long time when you're getting your ass busted and sweating like pig all over your yoga mat.
Glad to say I did my best today. I ate well and got in my workout even though it was late. I owe it to myself to keep on moving!
Day 13 completed!
Green has inately been my favorite colour since before I could talk. My mother tells me that as a child I always chose the green kiddie plastic cup to drink from, and always used up all my green crayon colours first out of the box. So it's just plain natural that I love St. Pattys Day in all it's beautiful green-ocity!
After work today I had some important tasks on my to-do list that I'd been putting off. My husband and I picked up my wedding rings from the jeweler, went grocery shopping at the Community Health Foods store, and visited Crate & Barrel to update our wedding reception registry. So needless to say, we ate out for supper. Normally quote scary! I ordered chicken, rice & veggies, proud of myself that I could be so heathy. Normally I flop and end up eating horribly greasy foods in restaurant situations. Then I achieve the maximum guilt level. I refer to this phenomenon as "Guilt Fries", "Guilt Candy", or "Guilt Pizza". You get the idea.
When we finally got home after 9pm I was exhausted. All I wanted to do was plop myself down on the couch and eat snacks while watching tv. Instead I met up with Mrs. Jillian and we rocked out a sweat-filled 20 minutes.
Just to clear things up, 20 minutes is not really very long at all. If you're playing video games, watching tv, or generally doing anything that requires laziness. However, 20 minutes seems like a long time when you're getting your ass busted and sweating like pig all over your yoga mat.
Glad to say I did my best today. I ate well and got in my workout even though it was late. I owe it to myself to keep on moving!
Day 13 completed!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Day 12 of 30: Common Sense?
Today was a looong day. Work was well, work. Nothing fun to report there. Oh, but there was a most awe insipiring, mandetory, 2-hour, afternoon meeting. The focus you ask? Apparently it is frowned upon to drink or do drugs at work and.. also while driving company vehicles. Really? Really. The fact that we even had to have a presentation is quite amusing and yet somehow sad at the same time. Common sense is not so common it would seem.
I also learned about vitamins today. Specifically that one should not take massive quanities of vitamin C. I had always thought that extra vitamin C would pass by and do no harm. After a caution from the resident mom at work, I read online that the dosage threshold is 1000mg. Consistently taking over 1000mg puts one at risk for minor and major side effects. So I will start taking no more than 2, 500mg chewables, per day rather than the 3-8 I frequently consume. Who knew that taking 4000mg of vitamin C per day would be bad?
After work, even with my sore knee, I managed to make it through the entire 30 mintues of workout number two. Yay for me! There is much more cardio in this level. The ab workouts are almost all planks or in some form of plank position. So overall, much harder than workout one. It felt good to only have to pause the dvd once today. My knee is healing up and it's holding me back currently, which can be frustrating having to tone down workouts and follow the modified moves, when I know I can do so much more. I'm sure a couple more days and it will be back to normal.
Two more days to workout before my weekly weigh in on Friday. Just over 20lbs to go to my goal, and I know I can do this. I just need to keep moving!
Day 12 complete!
I also learned about vitamins today. Specifically that one should not take massive quanities of vitamin C. I had always thought that extra vitamin C would pass by and do no harm. After a caution from the resident mom at work, I read online that the dosage threshold is 1000mg. Consistently taking over 1000mg puts one at risk for minor and major side effects. So I will start taking no more than 2, 500mg chewables, per day rather than the 3-8 I frequently consume. Who knew that taking 4000mg of vitamin C per day would be bad?
After work, even with my sore knee, I managed to make it through the entire 30 mintues of workout number two. Yay for me! There is much more cardio in this level. The ab workouts are almost all planks or in some form of plank position. So overall, much harder than workout one. It felt good to only have to pause the dvd once today. My knee is healing up and it's holding me back currently, which can be frustrating having to tone down workouts and follow the modified moves, when I know I can do so much more. I'm sure a couple more days and it will be back to normal.
Two more days to workout before my weekly weigh in on Friday. Just over 20lbs to go to my goal, and I know I can do this. I just need to keep moving!
Day 12 complete!
Monday, March 15, 2010
Day 11 of 30: Workout #2
It was a very rough start to today. I woke up after a three hour "nap" over the course of the night and was aching all over. I ended up staying home sick for the day and trying my best to rest up. I slept until noon and woke up feeling groggy. Not promising for a daily workout.
My husband came home with his daily Starbucks fix and we spent the late afternoon tackling our taxes. It feels good to have them done, filed and out of the way for the year. Yay, gold star for us! Something else I can cross off of my ever growing to-do list. Do these lists ever go away?
After tax fun, I was feeling lazy and sore but I made myself do the first day of workout 2 on the Shred DVD. It was very slow going and I had to hit pause and take a couple of breaks to make it through. One break to grab some water and another to get a towel to wipe up the ever growing puddles of sweat on my floor. The level of intensity and the moves were a bit shocking. I finally made it through the grueling 20 minutes and then sat down to ice my knee. I can't wait to see the circus moves of workout 3 in 9 more days...
The remainder of the evening has been a nice relaxed night at home. It was Chuck night tonight! We love the series Chuck and watch it weekly as a family. It's only 9pm and I am unusually ready for bed early. A good nights rest is going to be so wonderful tonight.
Even though I am sick, Day 11 complete!
My husband came home with his daily Starbucks fix and we spent the late afternoon tackling our taxes. It feels good to have them done, filed and out of the way for the year. Yay, gold star for us! Something else I can cross off of my ever growing to-do list. Do these lists ever go away?
After tax fun, I was feeling lazy and sore but I made myself do the first day of workout 2 on the Shred DVD. It was very slow going and I had to hit pause and take a couple of breaks to make it through. One break to grab some water and another to get a towel to wipe up the ever growing puddles of sweat on my floor. The level of intensity and the moves were a bit shocking. I finally made it through the grueling 20 minutes and then sat down to ice my knee. I can't wait to see the circus moves of workout 3 in 9 more days...
The remainder of the evening has been a nice relaxed night at home. It was Chuck night tonight! We love the series Chuck and watch it weekly as a family. It's only 9pm and I am unusually ready for bed early. A good nights rest is going to be so wonderful tonight.
Even though I am sick, Day 11 complete!
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Day 10 of 30: Dog Walking
I am a third of the way there! 10 days down and 20 days to go. Tomorrow begins workout #2 and I am looking forward to seeing the new exercises. Saturday was difficult with food as well. I wasn't able to follow Jenny Craig's plan, so today is a new day and I am trying.
This morning I spent some time visiting with my family and we ate a big breakfast of veggie omelettes and fresh fruit. Then I had a workout in my fitness room. The 30 Day Shred video workout one is now ingrained in my head. I feel great after the 20 minutes of strength, cardio and abs. I'm starting to get addicted to working out everyday and feeling better. Looking forward to dropping some more weight and fitting into my "small" jeans. This summer is going to be great!
The remainder of today will consist of walking the dogs, and relaxing at home. So a nice and slow paced Sunday.
Day 10 complete!
This morning I spent some time visiting with my family and we ate a big breakfast of veggie omelettes and fresh fruit. Then I had a workout in my fitness room. The 30 Day Shred video workout one is now ingrained in my head. I feel great after the 20 minutes of strength, cardio and abs. I'm starting to get addicted to working out everyday and feeling better. Looking forward to dropping some more weight and fitting into my "small" jeans. This summer is going to be great!
The remainder of today will consist of walking the dogs, and relaxing at home. So a nice and slow paced Sunday.
Day 10 complete!
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Day 9 of 30: Family Time
The bad news. Last night I fell off the wagon. Not fitness wise, but with healthy eating. I went out to a movie with my bud Amanda and we ended up eating caesar salads & the biggest pieces of pizza I have ever seen in my life. They were the size of our heads! Then at the movie we got nibs candy. I am quite addicted to nibs. I think they're made with crack cocaine or something similar. So needless to say, this morning I was groggy from all the chow and had little to no energy. I forced myself to get out of bed and workout with Jillian. This has been the hardest day yet. A half hour later, all sweaty and tired, I made it through. I am proud of the acomplishments I have made so far. That's what I plan to use as motivation for the next 21 days.
Now for the good news. We ended up catching a late showing of Velntines Day last night and therefore we had time to go shopping at the mall! I bought some new workout gear from Lululemon, my fave workout store. It's expensive, but it really helps to look and feel good when you work out as a secondary motiviation to keep going. When I finish these 30 days my plan is to treat myself to a massage at the spa.
After pushing myself to work out this morning, I proceeded to run around the house like a chicken with my head cut off, doing laundry, vaccuuming and generally tidying and cleaning whereever I could. My parents called this morning and are expected to arrive for a visit around lunch time. I expect we will spend the rest of today visiting, shopping, eating or even, gulp, going out to dinner.
A secret for you. The hardest part of trying to lose weight is the social aspect. Everything we do seems to hinge around eating while we socialize with our friends and family. If you don't eat with them, it becomes akward. If you do, you feel guilt afterwards for either not eating healthy foods or for not sticking to your plan. So the best thing I can do for myself when faced with the situation to divert from my meal plans, is to try to eat as healthy as possible. Sometimes this is extremely difficult as pubs and bars rarely have anything on the menus which contitute real food thats not dripping with fat and loaded with salt. It is hard to avoid but on the other hand you also need to live life, so cant be chained to a diet all of the time. Everything in moderation. (Except for nibs candy.)
Day 9 is complete and looking forward to spending the day with my wonderful family!
Now for the good news. We ended up catching a late showing of Velntines Day last night and therefore we had time to go shopping at the mall! I bought some new workout gear from Lululemon, my fave workout store. It's expensive, but it really helps to look and feel good when you work out as a secondary motiviation to keep going. When I finish these 30 days my plan is to treat myself to a massage at the spa.
After pushing myself to work out this morning, I proceeded to run around the house like a chicken with my head cut off, doing laundry, vaccuuming and generally tidying and cleaning whereever I could. My parents called this morning and are expected to arrive for a visit around lunch time. I expect we will spend the rest of today visiting, shopping, eating or even, gulp, going out to dinner.
A secret for you. The hardest part of trying to lose weight is the social aspect. Everything we do seems to hinge around eating while we socialize with our friends and family. If you don't eat with them, it becomes akward. If you do, you feel guilt afterwards for either not eating healthy foods or for not sticking to your plan. So the best thing I can do for myself when faced with the situation to divert from my meal plans, is to try to eat as healthy as possible. Sometimes this is extremely difficult as pubs and bars rarely have anything on the menus which contitute real food thats not dripping with fat and loaded with salt. It is hard to avoid but on the other hand you also need to live life, so cant be chained to a diet all of the time. Everything in moderation. (Except for nibs candy.)
Day 9 is complete and looking forward to spending the day with my wonderful family!
Friday, March 12, 2010
Day 8 of 30: Girls Night Out
This morning I woke up extra early. 8:30am. On a day off. A definate sign that I am getting older. I saw my husband off to work and then had a little pre-breakfast time with Jillian. The workouts are getting easier. Only 2 more days and then I will be onto workout #2 for Monday.
After my workout I headed to the Jenny Craig Centre for my weekly weigh in and food purchase with my JC consultant, Jenn. I weighed in and lost over 4lbs! That's the best reward and motivator anyone could ask for. I purchased my food for the week, and then headed for the gym to meet my new personal trainer, Tanya. On the way I dropped my truck off at the car detailer near Gold's Gym. They wash your vehicle inside and out while you workout!
At Golds Gym, I was measured and weighed (starting to feel like a big piece of meat) and then Tanya plugged a lot of info into the computer system about me. She hooked me up to this electrode hand held machine which posted infomation on screen about my extra fat. Apparently I have 11% extra. Not sure how I feel about that. 11 is a good enough number, better than 20 and not as good as 5. Looking forward to seeing that number go down at our final weigh in after our 16 weeks are completed. Next Friday is my first workout with Tanya.
After our meeting, I went off on my own to burn some fat. Hey, I was already dressed up and ready to go. I selected a treadmill (far away from the main hallway) and began to run. I decided to run at a 2% incline, which I've never bothered to do before. I ran 1 minute intervals from a walk at 6kmh to a jog at 9kmh for 25 minutes. Fastest I've ever attempted on the treadmill is 12kmh. Let me tell you its a bit scary. I then worked on some chest flys, some abs and some stretching. The after soak in the steam room was heavenly! The shower felt even better. So now I'm done working out for day 8 and I feel amazing.
Tonight I'm headed to the movies to see Valentine's Day with Amanda, one of my best friends. The trick will be trying to avoid the tasty-oh-so-good-smelling snack bar!
Have a great Friday night all!
After my workout I headed to the Jenny Craig Centre for my weekly weigh in and food purchase with my JC consultant, Jenn. I weighed in and lost over 4lbs! That's the best reward and motivator anyone could ask for. I purchased my food for the week, and then headed for the gym to meet my new personal trainer, Tanya. On the way I dropped my truck off at the car detailer near Gold's Gym. They wash your vehicle inside and out while you workout!
At Golds Gym, I was measured and weighed (starting to feel like a big piece of meat) and then Tanya plugged a lot of info into the computer system about me. She hooked me up to this electrode hand held machine which posted infomation on screen about my extra fat. Apparently I have 11% extra. Not sure how I feel about that. 11 is a good enough number, better than 20 and not as good as 5. Looking forward to seeing that number go down at our final weigh in after our 16 weeks are completed. Next Friday is my first workout with Tanya.
After our meeting, I went off on my own to burn some fat. Hey, I was already dressed up and ready to go. I selected a treadmill (far away from the main hallway) and began to run. I decided to run at a 2% incline, which I've never bothered to do before. I ran 1 minute intervals from a walk at 6kmh to a jog at 9kmh for 25 minutes. Fastest I've ever attempted on the treadmill is 12kmh. Let me tell you its a bit scary. I then worked on some chest flys, some abs and some stretching. The after soak in the steam room was heavenly! The shower felt even better. So now I'm done working out for day 8 and I feel amazing.
Tonight I'm headed to the movies to see Valentine's Day with Amanda, one of my best friends. The trick will be trying to avoid the tasty-oh-so-good-smelling snack bar!
Have a great Friday night all!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Day 7 of 30: Faux Friday
Welcome to Day 7 of my personal project. Thursday, or lovingly referred to as "Faux Friday" by a good friend.
My neighbours have been kind enough to carpool the past two mornings, and the ride to Quarry Park has cut my bus time from over an hour to just under a half hour! Cheers for awesome neighbours and bonus sleep time in the mornings. Mornings and I have always been arch enemies. We go way back.
Lunch hour today consisted of an at work Pilates class. Feels great to punch in extra bouts of fitness during the workday. The remainder of the day was meeting filled as per usual. One of note, included a City Aldermen to discuss a big, beautifully designed, single family dwelling in a fancy neighbourhood. Which naturally meant all the neighbours were jealous and had decided to hate it. Oh well, such is life. Not everyone can keep up with the Jones' all the time. Oh and speaking of work, I've started sitting on a fitness ball at my desk for that little bit extra of added fitness. Yes, I am one of "those" people now. Don't judge.
Headed promptly towards home on the BRT after work. A bit of a brisk day made for a nice 1km walk to segway into my daily workout. I began my workout and the daily dose of Mrs. Michaels, when my husband walked in and to my surprise joined in on the workout! I'm very proud of him for trying his best to be coordinated.
During the past week I've also learned the hard way that the workout is much more gruelling if you don't listen to Jillian talk you through the moves. So I will be listening to her every word from now on. A couple more days left on workout #1, and I haven't even peeked to see what style of pain that workout #2 has to dish out. Let's leave that as Jillian's surprise for me on Day 11...
My neighbours have been kind enough to carpool the past two mornings, and the ride to Quarry Park has cut my bus time from over an hour to just under a half hour! Cheers for awesome neighbours and bonus sleep time in the mornings. Mornings and I have always been arch enemies. We go way back.
Lunch hour today consisted of an at work Pilates class. Feels great to punch in extra bouts of fitness during the workday. The remainder of the day was meeting filled as per usual. One of note, included a City Aldermen to discuss a big, beautifully designed, single family dwelling in a fancy neighbourhood. Which naturally meant all the neighbours were jealous and had decided to hate it. Oh well, such is life. Not everyone can keep up with the Jones' all the time. Oh and speaking of work, I've started sitting on a fitness ball at my desk for that little bit extra of added fitness. Yes, I am one of "those" people now. Don't judge.
Headed promptly towards home on the BRT after work. A bit of a brisk day made for a nice 1km walk to segway into my daily workout. I began my workout and the daily dose of Mrs. Michaels, when my husband walked in and to my surprise joined in on the workout! I'm very proud of him for trying his best to be coordinated.
During the past week I've also learned the hard way that the workout is much more gruelling if you don't listen to Jillian talk you through the moves. So I will be listening to her every word from now on. A couple more days left on workout #1, and I haven't even peeked to see what style of pain that workout #2 has to dish out. Let's leave that as Jillian's surprise for me on Day 11...
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Day 6 of 30: Safety Expo
The morning of Day 6 I volunteered my time at work for the Mayor's Safety Expo held at City Hall. My pay is in the form of a black t-shirt with corporate logos littering the back. I figure its another free workout shirt, so bonus! My task was to guide hundreds of kids from City Hall to the Police Station and back as workshops are held throughout the morning. As another added bonus, it required me to walk stairs for a few hours. A workout plus a free t-shirt! Who could ask for more? It's a loud day full of kids. Or as a friend likes to refer to large groups of children, "birth control".
In the afternoon we recieved an email about free fleece vests with our departmental logo embroidered on them. I was in shock. We never get free items at work. We work for the man and the man doesn't waste money. So naturally, I questioned it and am still not certain what the catch might be, but ordered one all the same.
After work I headed home on the BRT(Bus Rapid Transit) and then walked the 20 minutes home. I am tired today and would really prefer a nap, but am committed and couldn't handle the thought of self failure, so Jillian, it's on!
Day 6 complete!
In the afternoon we recieved an email about free fleece vests with our departmental logo embroidered on them. I was in shock. We never get free items at work. We work for the man and the man doesn't waste money. So naturally, I questioned it and am still not certain what the catch might be, but ordered one all the same.
After work I headed home on the BRT(Bus Rapid Transit) and then walked the 20 minutes home. I am tired today and would really prefer a nap, but am committed and couldn't handle the thought of self failure, so Jillian, it's on!
Day 6 complete!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Day 5 of 30: iPhone Blog App
Day 5 was on a Tuesday. A normal workday, like any other. I commuted into work on the bus and tried to distract myself with my iphone for the hour plus long ride. I was thinking how if there is an app for everything, why couldn't I find a good blogging app that I could update via my phone. I searched. Found nothing. Got downtown and walked to work.
At lunch hour, during certain times of the year, a fitness class is held in 50 minute time slots. Things like yoga, pilates, and random fitness classes geared toward giving employees an outlet for their pent up anger and frusteration towards the general public. Okay, maybe not necessarily for that exact reason, but it helps.
So off I went to a Core class for 50 minutes. We spent most of the class holding onto a little green blow up ball and using it to hurt ourselves in various ways. V-sits, situps, holding weird and difficult poses and the like. It felt great as usual to get in a bonus workout over lunch.
After work I ended up getting a ride home from a very sweet co-worker. Thank you!
Once home I had the urge to sit on the couch and relax after a long day at the office. I went to the fridge and peeked inside. Then I remembered that old habits do die hard. So I marched myself upstairs and into my fitness cave for my daily workout with Mrs. Michaels. She and I are getting pretty tight!
Day 5 complete!
At lunch hour, during certain times of the year, a fitness class is held in 50 minute time slots. Things like yoga, pilates, and random fitness classes geared toward giving employees an outlet for their pent up anger and frusteration towards the general public. Okay, maybe not necessarily for that exact reason, but it helps.
So off I went to a Core class for 50 minutes. We spent most of the class holding onto a little green blow up ball and using it to hurt ourselves in various ways. V-sits, situps, holding weird and difficult poses and the like. It felt great as usual to get in a bonus workout over lunch.
After work I ended up getting a ride home from a very sweet co-worker. Thank you!
Once home I had the urge to sit on the couch and relax after a long day at the office. I went to the fridge and peeked inside. Then I remembered that old habits do die hard. So I marched myself upstairs and into my fitness cave for my daily workout with Mrs. Michaels. She and I are getting pretty tight!
Day 5 complete!
Monday, March 8, 2010
Day 4 of 30: Invisalines
Day 4 began like any Monday. Dull and sleepy. Lucky for me I didnt have to bus it into work, but was able to drive and save an hour of commute time, since I had an ortho appointment later that afternoon. After leaving work early for my appointment, picking up my husband from work and getting invisalines installed in my face, I went home to workout.
It was a challenge to avoid the couch, it was calling my name, had offered me sweets and the tv remote. I declined. I went up to my fitness room, (workout cave? I'll have to think of a nick name for it later) and got suited up for my workout dvd. 30 minutes later and after a bunch of jumping jacks, lunges with bicep curls (shudder), I was finished. The shower afterwards was the best part, felt amazing and so did my pjs as I settled into the couch.
It was a challenge to avoid the couch, it was calling my name, had offered me sweets and the tv remote. I declined. I went up to my fitness room, (workout cave? I'll have to think of a nick name for it later) and got suited up for my workout dvd. 30 minutes later and after a bunch of jumping jacks, lunges with bicep curls (shudder), I was finished. The shower afterwards was the best part, felt amazing and so did my pjs as I settled into the couch.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Day 3 of 30: Snowboarding
Sunday March 7th, 2010. I made myself get up early and workout before I could do anything else. The afternoon plans were for snowboarding lessons and I knew that afterwards I would be tired and likely not do the workout for day 3. So I was not allowed to eat, shower or even sit down until I completed the workout.
The jumping jacks and skipping routines were starting to cause my calves to become large inflexable rocks attached to my ankles. No matter what I did I could not get the muscles to relax. Maybe snowboarding and day 4 would help to work the muscles back into a plyable functioning leg.
The afternoon of snowboarding was a great distraction. Lots of excercise, falling down, getting up, falling down. You get the pattern. Beginners tip: Wear knee pads and strap a pillow to your butt. Falling hurts, yes, even on snow. I learned to stand up facing both uphill and downhill, a big acomplishment over a hurdle that plagued me back in the late 90's when I first attempted to snowboard. I learned to slide down the bunny hill frontwards and backwards on my edges and began to pendulum on the hill. then the lesson was over. I have plans to go for the second lesson to learn to turn and stop. Two key talents I believe may come in handy on the mountain runs. Just a hunch.
The jumping jacks and skipping routines were starting to cause my calves to become large inflexable rocks attached to my ankles. No matter what I did I could not get the muscles to relax. Maybe snowboarding and day 4 would help to work the muscles back into a plyable functioning leg.
The afternoon of snowboarding was a great distraction. Lots of excercise, falling down, getting up, falling down. You get the pattern. Beginners tip: Wear knee pads and strap a pillow to your butt. Falling hurts, yes, even on snow. I learned to stand up facing both uphill and downhill, a big acomplishment over a hurdle that plagued me back in the late 90's when I first attempted to snowboard. I learned to slide down the bunny hill frontwards and backwards on my edges and began to pendulum on the hill. then the lesson was over. I have plans to go for the second lesson to learn to turn and stop. Two key talents I believe may come in handy on the mountain runs. Just a hunch.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Day 2 of 30: Simply Saturday
Day 2: Being a Saturday, and normally Saturdays are filled with relaxing, tv, movies and vegitation on my couch, I knew going in that it was going to be more difficult to get motivated to work out. I made myself get up for 9:00am and get straight into my fitness room.
The workout was just as difficult as day 1 and Jillian was none the friendlier. 30 minutes later, day 2 was complete and I went on with a normal Saturday of relaxation. It felt good to know I had stuck with it, as I've heard that establishing a routine takes 21 days and I couldn't mess it up on the second day. I moved along and looked forward to acomplishing my 30 day goal.
The workout was just as difficult as day 1 and Jillian was none the friendlier. 30 minutes later, day 2 was complete and I went on with a normal Saturday of relaxation. It felt good to know I had stuck with it, as I've heard that establishing a routine takes 21 days and I couldn't mess it up on the second day. I moved along and looked forward to acomplishing my 30 day goal.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Project: 30 Days of Fitness
On my day off, Friday March 5th, I made a personal committment to myself. A revelation that if I can't commit to myself, and be accountable, who will? After years of frusteration of trying to workout, making excuses, being lazy, or just generally not enjoying fitness routines, I made a plan and started to implement it.
The plan is to work out everyday for 30 days. A short term commitment, without over doing my promise to myself. None of the "I'll do it everyday for a year, three years, or forever" type of self promises which are doomed from the moment it is uttered.
I proceeded to turn my tiny 8x9 spare room into a workout room, incuding only the basics: a tv, dvd player, yoga mat and various other small pieces of workout equipment. I was ready to begin.
Day 1: I decided on the Jillian Michaels 30-Day Shred, due to a couple of factors. One being that a friend was already doing it and had inspired me, and secondly because 30 days is achieveable. Baby steps.
Workout 1 was moderately difficult being that I have not had an ass kicking workout since before our wedding in November 2009. A few months makes a huge difference, let me tell you! Jillian was a drill sargent and the video does not allow for any breaks or rest whatsoever. I felt achey later that same day, but it could have just been the cold I was fighting off. I was determined to keep it up.
Day 1 complete!
The plan is to work out everyday for 30 days. A short term commitment, without over doing my promise to myself. None of the "I'll do it everyday for a year, three years, or forever" type of self promises which are doomed from the moment it is uttered.
I proceeded to turn my tiny 8x9 spare room into a workout room, incuding only the basics: a tv, dvd player, yoga mat and various other small pieces of workout equipment. I was ready to begin.
Day 1: I decided on the Jillian Michaels 30-Day Shred, due to a couple of factors. One being that a friend was already doing it and had inspired me, and secondly because 30 days is achieveable. Baby steps.
Workout 1 was moderately difficult being that I have not had an ass kicking workout since before our wedding in November 2009. A few months makes a huge difference, let me tell you! Jillian was a drill sargent and the video does not allow for any breaks or rest whatsoever. I felt achey later that same day, but it could have just been the cold I was fighting off. I was determined to keep it up.
Day 1 complete!
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