Just wanted to jot down that I ran/walked the 5K today (on a treadmill) in 43:30. That's an average of (almost) 14 minutes/mile. Not too bad if you consider that I expected it to be more like 45-48 minutes. I'd like to eventually run a 5K in 30 mins; however, I think that will take some serious running and training.
I'll be interested to see how long this 5K takes me on Saturday when you consider there will be obstacles and the added challenge of outside terrain (trees, hills, rocks, etc.) that we'll be running on. My guess is it will take closer to an hour. But that's ok.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Fitness Update
I haven't done much updating on the fitness side of things, so here you go:
Work outs are going well. I've varied things on the occasion by working out at the gym rather than the house. This means I don't always do the P90 exercise. I still feel I'm getting the same quality of workout, though. I figure in another 10-15 days I should be able to start the next video in P90, which means harder, more intense workouts. Hopefully that will equal more weight loss and muscle definition.
A few people have told me they think I've lost some weight. The scale did say I've lost 6 pounds. However, I wish it was more. But, I know I'm starting somewhere. I guess 6 pounds is about right when you consider that the healthiest weight loss is 2-3 pounds a week AFTER you've gained some muscle mass.
Today I'll be going to the gym to do some running. My first 5K is this weekend. I'm not sure I'm ready for it, but sometimes you just gotta jump in and sink or swim. I'm pretty sure I'll survive, but it's gonna be TOUGH!
I got pretty motivated last night after watching the Biggest Loser. It's one of my favorite reality style shows. It's actually descent and does something good for people. Anyway, today I'm going to try a Biggest Loser style workout at the gym. I can push myself pretty hard today and still have enough time to "heal" before the race on Saturday.
Oh, yesterday I went to the gym at 5pm to lift weights (instead of using the resistance band like I usually do). I am pretty proud of myself for sticking it out. The gym was kinda full AND everyone there was fit, lean, muscular and pretty. I find it embarrassing to work out at the gym when you're around all those super healthy people who run laps around you. But, then I remembered a quote that goes something like this: "I may not run laps around the people at the gym, but I'm running laps around people on their couch doing nothing." It made me feel good and I finished my workout!
So, time for some gym action! Later, gator!
Work outs are going well. I've varied things on the occasion by working out at the gym rather than the house. This means I don't always do the P90 exercise. I still feel I'm getting the same quality of workout, though. I figure in another 10-15 days I should be able to start the next video in P90, which means harder, more intense workouts. Hopefully that will equal more weight loss and muscle definition.
A few people have told me they think I've lost some weight. The scale did say I've lost 6 pounds. However, I wish it was more. But, I know I'm starting somewhere. I guess 6 pounds is about right when you consider that the healthiest weight loss is 2-3 pounds a week AFTER you've gained some muscle mass.
Today I'll be going to the gym to do some running. My first 5K is this weekend. I'm not sure I'm ready for it, but sometimes you just gotta jump in and sink or swim. I'm pretty sure I'll survive, but it's gonna be TOUGH!
I got pretty motivated last night after watching the Biggest Loser. It's one of my favorite reality style shows. It's actually descent and does something good for people. Anyway, today I'm going to try a Biggest Loser style workout at the gym. I can push myself pretty hard today and still have enough time to "heal" before the race on Saturday.
Oh, yesterday I went to the gym at 5pm to lift weights (instead of using the resistance band like I usually do). I am pretty proud of myself for sticking it out. The gym was kinda full AND everyone there was fit, lean, muscular and pretty. I find it embarrassing to work out at the gym when you're around all those super healthy people who run laps around you. But, then I remembered a quote that goes something like this: "I may not run laps around the people at the gym, but I'm running laps around people on their couch doing nothing." It made me feel good and I finished my workout!
So, time for some gym action! Later, gator!
Monday, February 27, 2012
Frustrations, Pt. 2
I need a minute to vent.
1.) I'm tired of having this cold and allergies. I don't want to blow my nose again. Ever.
2.) I want to see faster results with this exercise/diet thing. I was immediate results. I'm tired of being patient.
3.) Deciding to eliminate sugar from my coffee for lent was a bad idea. Now I don't enjoy my coffee as much, and that is depressing.
4.) My granddad is a grumpy old man and he drives me crazy sometimes. He's also really critical. I love him, but he's getting on my last nerve. I feel like I can't ever please him.
5.) I think it is bullshit that only children are socially allowed to play make-believe and make up wild imaginations. I'm tired of people laughing when I tell them crazy ideas and fun dreams. Sure, they may never happen. I get that. But it doesn't mean it's not fun to imagine and dream sometimes.
6.) Just because I don't always fit into the most practical mold doesn't mean I'm not being productive with my life. I just do things more creatively and I don't always fit into the box society wants. Deal with it.
7.) I will have fun and enjoy life. Even if that means spending a little more money rather than saving it. Or "wasting" some time laughing and doing silly things rather than reading or being "practical." I'm an artist. This is what we do.
8.) I will be happy doing the jobs I want to do. Even if that means I won't make as much money as others. I've accepted that.
9.) I'm sick of my boyfriend being 9 hours away. It sucks.
10.) My sister in law pisses me off. She doesn't communicate with me. I send gifts and packages to the niece and nephews and she never lets me know when she gets them. She doesn't ever talk to my parents even though they try really hard to be a part of her life, especially since my brother's been deployed. Since she doesn't want to ever spend time with us, we never see the kids OR my brother. Sometimes I really want to tell her how much she irritates me, but then I'm afraid it would ruin my relationship with my brother. Why couldn't I be one of the lucky people who gets a SIL that becomes a best friend? Oh well, I do love my brother-in-law.
11.) I hate my office chair. It is so uncomfortable. I hate that the office chair I want is really expensive.
But, on a happier note, it's a beautiful day. Maybe I'll go for a walk and I won't be so irritated any more.
1.) I'm tired of having this cold and allergies. I don't want to blow my nose again. Ever.
2.) I want to see faster results with this exercise/diet thing. I was immediate results. I'm tired of being patient.
3.) Deciding to eliminate sugar from my coffee for lent was a bad idea. Now I don't enjoy my coffee as much, and that is depressing.
4.) My granddad is a grumpy old man and he drives me crazy sometimes. He's also really critical. I love him, but he's getting on my last nerve. I feel like I can't ever please him.
5.) I think it is bullshit that only children are socially allowed to play make-believe and make up wild imaginations. I'm tired of people laughing when I tell them crazy ideas and fun dreams. Sure, they may never happen. I get that. But it doesn't mean it's not fun to imagine and dream sometimes.
6.) Just because I don't always fit into the most practical mold doesn't mean I'm not being productive with my life. I just do things more creatively and I don't always fit into the box society wants. Deal with it.
7.) I will have fun and enjoy life. Even if that means spending a little more money rather than saving it. Or "wasting" some time laughing and doing silly things rather than reading or being "practical." I'm an artist. This is what we do.
8.) I will be happy doing the jobs I want to do. Even if that means I won't make as much money as others. I've accepted that.
9.) I'm sick of my boyfriend being 9 hours away. It sucks.
10.) My sister in law pisses me off. She doesn't communicate with me. I send gifts and packages to the niece and nephews and she never lets me know when she gets them. She doesn't ever talk to my parents even though they try really hard to be a part of her life, especially since my brother's been deployed. Since she doesn't want to ever spend time with us, we never see the kids OR my brother. Sometimes I really want to tell her how much she irritates me, but then I'm afraid it would ruin my relationship with my brother. Why couldn't I be one of the lucky people who gets a SIL that becomes a best friend? Oh well, I do love my brother-in-law.
11.) I hate my office chair. It is so uncomfortable. I hate that the office chair I want is really expensive.
But, on a happier note, it's a beautiful day. Maybe I'll go for a walk and I won't be so irritated any more.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Whew...
What a week. Things have been incredibly hectic between visits from friends, work, travel, and exercising.
So, quick update:
-My best friend in the world (Hannah) came to visit on Tuesday. She left early this morning. While here, we went to a museum, played the piano, talked and laughed (lots), went to Atlanta and saw the Atlanta Symphony, rearranged my work office and did some shopping. Overall, it was a fantastic visit. Now it's my turn to visit her.
-I've somehow managed to keep up with Power 90 this week. Admittedly, I didn't do the entire workout yesterday. I woke up late, so it had to be a quick version. But at least I did what I could. Today I ran instead of doing the entire cardio (gotta get ready for the 5K next weekend); however, I did do the P90 yoga and ab routine.
-My aunt and little 18mo. old cousin is visiting this weekend. It's nice to have visitors, but this means I have NO free weekends before Spring Break. Somehow I've got to figure out how I'll squeeze in all of my school work. I can do it.
-Next weekend is the zombie run. This means I'll be running again on Monday then taking it kinda easy for the remainder of the week.
-I weighed at the gym today and I've lost 3 pounds! Woo-hoo!!!
BEST NEWS of the YEAR:
My teaching job has been renewed, so I'll remain at UWG for at least another year! It is both a relief and incredibly exciting! As a bit of a celebration, I rearranged my office and bought a few little items to decorate and make it more comfy for me to work in. I found an amazing store that sells antique/retro items. While walking around, I came across a fabulous red and orange lamp and a few cute mirrors. The combination has really made my office a bit more comfortable and quirky (which is right up my alley).
I'm looking forward to another year of perfecting my teaching. It will be nice to have a summer to evaluate what I've done and get ready for the year. I went in to this school year with such short notice that I've been making things up as I go, but next year I'm hoping to be completely ready with lots of great teaching ideas and plans!
Hope you all have a great weekend!
So, quick update:
-My best friend in the world (Hannah) came to visit on Tuesday. She left early this morning. While here, we went to a museum, played the piano, talked and laughed (lots), went to Atlanta and saw the Atlanta Symphony, rearranged my work office and did some shopping. Overall, it was a fantastic visit. Now it's my turn to visit her.
-I've somehow managed to keep up with Power 90 this week. Admittedly, I didn't do the entire workout yesterday. I woke up late, so it had to be a quick version. But at least I did what I could. Today I ran instead of doing the entire cardio (gotta get ready for the 5K next weekend); however, I did do the P90 yoga and ab routine.
-My aunt and little 18mo. old cousin is visiting this weekend. It's nice to have visitors, but this means I have NO free weekends before Spring Break. Somehow I've got to figure out how I'll squeeze in all of my school work. I can do it.
-Next weekend is the zombie run. This means I'll be running again on Monday then taking it kinda easy for the remainder of the week.
-I weighed at the gym today and I've lost 3 pounds! Woo-hoo!!!
BEST NEWS of the YEAR:
My teaching job has been renewed, so I'll remain at UWG for at least another year! It is both a relief and incredibly exciting! As a bit of a celebration, I rearranged my office and bought a few little items to decorate and make it more comfy for me to work in. I found an amazing store that sells antique/retro items. While walking around, I came across a fabulous red and orange lamp and a few cute mirrors. The combination has really made my office a bit more comfortable and quirky (which is right up my alley).
I'm looking forward to another year of perfecting my teaching. It will be nice to have a summer to evaluate what I've done and get ready for the year. I went in to this school year with such short notice that I've been making things up as I go, but next year I'm hoping to be completely ready with lots of great teaching ideas and plans!
Hope you all have a great weekend!
Monday, February 20, 2012
30 days and nights + Lent
I'd like to take a minute and reflect on the past 30 days of Power 90. I'll do this in list form because I like making lists.
1.) I did it. Now for 60 more. If I can do the first 30 WITHOUT missing a single workout (success), I can do all 90.
2.) I can't believe it's been 30 days. Seriously. I remember looking at my calendar thinking it would take forever and I'm already 1/3 of the way through.
3.) I took a picture (which is what you're instructed to do). To be honest, I don't see much change. HOWEVER, I can do some things (physically) that I couldn't do before. So that is a small step. I can only think that there will be more physical/body changes (for the better) in the second month.
4.) I'm pretty sure I can add to this workout regime and see positive effects but not over exert myself. I'll get to that more when I discuss lent.
5.) It's not as hard as you think it will be. Once the first few weeks are over, your body gets used to the workouts and it becomes more mental than physical. That's not to say I'm super fit, but I can tell when I'm having a bad day because my mind says I don't want to do it. On days when I am mentally ready to work out, I have fabulous work-outs (and those exercises are the same as on my "bad" days).
6.) My boyfriend is amazing for listening to me talk through this every day. I've had nights where I am super discouraged and frustrated, but he is ever encouraging and supportive.
Now for Lent:
I come from a southern Baptist background, so I wasn't raised honoring lent in the way other religious groups do. However, after living in a heavily populated Catholic area, I began participating in the lent season more for personal evaluation and discipline than anything religious. It's actually become a time of year I look forward to. To me, giving up something bad or adding something positive to your life is easier during Lent because it's such a short period of time. However, it's long enough to become a (hopefully) good habit AND allow you to see how much self motivation, determination and discipline you have. Anyway, there is no need to explain myself. Point is, I've got two things I'm doing for lent that you'll probably read about later on.
1.) I'm adding 1 hour of cardio to my workouts per week. Ideally, I'd like to add 1.5 hours (30 extra minutes, 3 days a week). But I know that just adding the extra 30 minutes two days OR 20 minutes 3 days is going to be enough of a challenge. Hopefully this will aid in my goals to run a half marathon AND do a triathlon. I've been doing some of this over the past week. It's not that bad, actually. Once I've already done the P90 workout, I just go straight outside and add walking, running, a combination of the two, etc. Plus the P90 workout isn't so hard that I'm COMPLETELY whipped by the end. There is usually still enough energy to add 20-30 mins.
2.) I'm getting rid of sugar in my tea/coffee. This is mainly so I'll be able to drink coffee without sugar. I add way too much and HATE artificial sweeteners. Cream/milk is allowed, but sugar isn't. I've been working on this some, but it's time to be serious. The only reason I'm not adding honey to tea is because once I stop adding honey and sugar to tea/coffee, I'll have completely eliminated all calorie containing drinks (besides my health shakes and wine--which those don't really count. I'm talking about sodas, sweet tea, sugary juices, etc.). This doesn't mean I'll forever quit having honey in tea. I understand honey is good for you and all. I'm mainly hoping to get rid of the extra calories for now and stop depending on sugar in coffee.
So, that's it. 30 days of P90 under my belt. Lenten season is on it's way. I'm doing it big. No cheat days---Ash Wednesday through Easter without any breaks. That will also ALMOST be the end of P90! Whoop! Just one more day to enjoy my sugary coffee! Glad it's a work day :)
1.) I did it. Now for 60 more. If I can do the first 30 WITHOUT missing a single workout (success), I can do all 90.
2.) I can't believe it's been 30 days. Seriously. I remember looking at my calendar thinking it would take forever and I'm already 1/3 of the way through.
3.) I took a picture (which is what you're instructed to do). To be honest, I don't see much change. HOWEVER, I can do some things (physically) that I couldn't do before. So that is a small step. I can only think that there will be more physical/body changes (for the better) in the second month.
4.) I'm pretty sure I can add to this workout regime and see positive effects but not over exert myself. I'll get to that more when I discuss lent.
5.) It's not as hard as you think it will be. Once the first few weeks are over, your body gets used to the workouts and it becomes more mental than physical. That's not to say I'm super fit, but I can tell when I'm having a bad day because my mind says I don't want to do it. On days when I am mentally ready to work out, I have fabulous work-outs (and those exercises are the same as on my "bad" days).
6.) My boyfriend is amazing for listening to me talk through this every day. I've had nights where I am super discouraged and frustrated, but he is ever encouraging and supportive.
Now for Lent:
I come from a southern Baptist background, so I wasn't raised honoring lent in the way other religious groups do. However, after living in a heavily populated Catholic area, I began participating in the lent season more for personal evaluation and discipline than anything religious. It's actually become a time of year I look forward to. To me, giving up something bad or adding something positive to your life is easier during Lent because it's such a short period of time. However, it's long enough to become a (hopefully) good habit AND allow you to see how much self motivation, determination and discipline you have. Anyway, there is no need to explain myself. Point is, I've got two things I'm doing for lent that you'll probably read about later on.
1.) I'm adding 1 hour of cardio to my workouts per week. Ideally, I'd like to add 1.5 hours (30 extra minutes, 3 days a week). But I know that just adding the extra 30 minutes two days OR 20 minutes 3 days is going to be enough of a challenge. Hopefully this will aid in my goals to run a half marathon AND do a triathlon. I've been doing some of this over the past week. It's not that bad, actually. Once I've already done the P90 workout, I just go straight outside and add walking, running, a combination of the two, etc. Plus the P90 workout isn't so hard that I'm COMPLETELY whipped by the end. There is usually still enough energy to add 20-30 mins.
2.) I'm getting rid of sugar in my tea/coffee. This is mainly so I'll be able to drink coffee without sugar. I add way too much and HATE artificial sweeteners. Cream/milk is allowed, but sugar isn't. I've been working on this some, but it's time to be serious. The only reason I'm not adding honey to tea is because once I stop adding honey and sugar to tea/coffee, I'll have completely eliminated all calorie containing drinks (besides my health shakes and wine--which those don't really count. I'm talking about sodas, sweet tea, sugary juices, etc.). This doesn't mean I'll forever quit having honey in tea. I understand honey is good for you and all. I'm mainly hoping to get rid of the extra calories for now and stop depending on sugar in coffee.
So, that's it. 30 days of P90 under my belt. Lenten season is on it's way. I'm doing it big. No cheat days---Ash Wednesday through Easter without any breaks. That will also ALMOST be the end of P90! Whoop! Just one more day to enjoy my sugary coffee! Glad it's a work day :)
Sunday, February 19, 2012
This week has been insane. I've been incredibly busy and am just now getting around to updating about my birthday, visit from Brad and the birthday weekend.
Also, I've had a hell of a time sticking to a healthy diet...Valentine's Day and birthday celebrations have been a big reason for my food binge. But, despite the hectic schedule and all of the distractions, I've managed to do my workout everyday. And I feel really good about that.
Anyway, my actual birthday was nice. My grandparents took me out for lunch at a nice place downtown. I spent most of the day resting and talking to friends/family. That evening I had a rehearsal, where they all sang happy birthday to me. After rehearsal I took myself out for sushi (which was wonderful!).
Thursday was an extremely busy day at work. I spent the day trying to catch up and get ahead so I could enjoy the weekend and next week when H comes to visit (yay!). I also had a piano lesson (which was okay...my teacher is really inexperienced so he isn't as much help as I'd like). Fortunately, I did enough work that I've been able to enjoy the weekend. I will have to do some things tomorrow evening, but that's fine. Hannah doesn't get in town until Tuesday afternoon, anyway.
Brad got here Friday! It has been so nice to see him. We spent most of Friday and Saturday seeing my family, so today it's just us. Which has been nice. I've noticed I've been kinda clingy and whiny; he even pointed it out. I think being separated for 6 weeks has been harder for me than I realized. He doesn't seem to worry about it--like a guy, he's super practical. His practicality gets frustrating because he doesn't seem to understand my concerns and I can't see things through his view (which is, 'why worry about it if we can't change the way things are?').
But, over all I've had a great time. We celebrated my birthday with my family last night. He met some of my aunts and uncles for the first time and they got along great (which is important because I'm VERY close with this side of my family). Today we're going to go ride around and see Guntersville, maybe have sushi for dinner (which is always fine with me), and generally enjoy our last evening together until next month... :(
Oh, and I did work out today even though he's here! Go me :)
Also, I've had a hell of a time sticking to a healthy diet...Valentine's Day and birthday celebrations have been a big reason for my food binge. But, despite the hectic schedule and all of the distractions, I've managed to do my workout everyday. And I feel really good about that.
Anyway, my actual birthday was nice. My grandparents took me out for lunch at a nice place downtown. I spent most of the day resting and talking to friends/family. That evening I had a rehearsal, where they all sang happy birthday to me. After rehearsal I took myself out for sushi (which was wonderful!).
Thursday was an extremely busy day at work. I spent the day trying to catch up and get ahead so I could enjoy the weekend and next week when H comes to visit (yay!). I also had a piano lesson (which was okay...my teacher is really inexperienced so he isn't as much help as I'd like). Fortunately, I did enough work that I've been able to enjoy the weekend. I will have to do some things tomorrow evening, but that's fine. Hannah doesn't get in town until Tuesday afternoon, anyway.
Brad got here Friday! It has been so nice to see him. We spent most of Friday and Saturday seeing my family, so today it's just us. Which has been nice. I've noticed I've been kinda clingy and whiny; he even pointed it out. I think being separated for 6 weeks has been harder for me than I realized. He doesn't seem to worry about it--like a guy, he's super practical. His practicality gets frustrating because he doesn't seem to understand my concerns and I can't see things through his view (which is, 'why worry about it if we can't change the way things are?').
But, over all I've had a great time. We celebrated my birthday with my family last night. He met some of my aunts and uncles for the first time and they got along great (which is important because I'm VERY close with this side of my family). Today we're going to go ride around and see Guntersville, maybe have sushi for dinner (which is always fine with me), and generally enjoy our last evening together until next month... :(
Oh, and I did work out today even though he's here! Go me :)
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Girly Girls
Although most people reserve Valentine's day for their romantic love, I really try to let my best girl friends know how much they mean to me. Boys have come and gone throughout my life. Other than my dad, granddads, brother and uncles, no guy has constantly been there on Valentine's day.
So, on this Valentine's Day I am being thankful for my best girlfriends who've been there through the good and bad. When I was "taken" and didn't have time for girl nights, you still loved me. You were all still there when the guy didn't work out and I came back crying and bemoaning my bad fortune. You didn't say "I told you so" (until much later when I was over him); instead you listened, supported me and said what a creep he was for not wanting me.
And, remember those times we were single? Those were great! We had fun looking at cute guys, trying on clothes, going out, not caring a bit what anyone else thought, planning our futures, traveling, laughing, crying....
Now that we're all taken (married, engaged, with child, in a relationship, etc.), well, life is still good. We still talk on the phone (as often as possible), write letters, plan visits, imagine, laugh, and grow together (even though most of us are separated by distance...lots of it).
I'm lucky to have as many fabulous girl friends as I do. If everyone of my best friends are in my wedding, my wedding party is going to be massive. Thank you all for being there and loving me with all my flaws and crazy tendencies. I love you, too.
So, on this Valentine's Day I am being thankful for my best girlfriends who've been there through the good and bad. When I was "taken" and didn't have time for girl nights, you still loved me. You were all still there when the guy didn't work out and I came back crying and bemoaning my bad fortune. You didn't say "I told you so" (until much later when I was over him); instead you listened, supported me and said what a creep he was for not wanting me.
And, remember those times we were single? Those were great! We had fun looking at cute guys, trying on clothes, going out, not caring a bit what anyone else thought, planning our futures, traveling, laughing, crying....
Now that we're all taken (married, engaged, with child, in a relationship, etc.), well, life is still good. We still talk on the phone (as often as possible), write letters, plan visits, imagine, laugh, and grow together (even though most of us are separated by distance...lots of it).
I'm lucky to have as many fabulous girl friends as I do. If everyone of my best friends are in my wedding, my wedding party is going to be massive. Thank you all for being there and loving me with all my flaws and crazy tendencies. I love you, too.
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