An Introduction to Yoga

I've always been so fascinated with the world of yoga. The peace one seems to cultivate when wobbling on one foot and stretching their limbs toward the sky is admirable. Being someone who loses balance while walking, nevermind striking certain elongating poses, I've never been able to give yoga the chance it deserves. The only time I get close to any kind of yoga is actually just wearing the pants on my lazy days.

That being said, I think I need to give yoga a better shot than simply overlooking the dusty, old yoga video I bought when I was 13 but watched only a handful of times. On my next day off, I vow to pick out a yoga workout On Demand and sweat through that shit.

And, for now, here's a few yoga stretches I vow to do tonight, in bed, before getting some much needed beauty sleep. Full sun salutation, here I come.

{photo via Extend Yoga}

Falling Off the Wagon

Well, it's happened... I can't remember the last time I've paid attention to this our little baby blog. That's what happens when you graduate college and spend the rest of your time trying to find some sort of half-decent job in your field. I think I've decided that's never going to happen, so I'm taking it easy on filling out more applications. I suppose when the time is right, it'll happen.

Anyway, speaking of falling off the wagon, I've totally bailed on my daily gym routine. I go to the gym around 2, definitely not more than 3, times a week. I admit it -- it's gotten bad. Especially when I'm trying to get dressed for work and find that I'm squeezing into my current jeans. It doesn't help to suck in and pretend I'm not getting bigger.

Well, safe to say I'm I've got to shape up for two of my best friends' weddings in 2014! It's not that it's just so I don't look like crap in my bridesmaid dresses and totally ruin the pictures of the wedding party, but I want to feel confident. I've said it before -- I'm so entirely sick of looking the way that I do. I'm running behind the wagon and I will slowly mount that bitch and take the wheel. I'm back!

A New Personal Record & A Puppy

Not to brag, but I'm kind of a big deal, guys.

Just kidding. But I have been going on short runs lately, around 15 minutes a pop, and trying to jog more than walk. On a recent run, I was really feeling it and felt that I was slacking compared to normal, but I trucked on through.

When I got home and my Run Keeper app told me that I set a new personal record, I was totally stoked! I was not expecting to have gotten a new record when halfway through I felt like I was going to puke.

Safe to say, I'm excited for my next run. Hopefully I can set another new record for myself, again! If only I can find the time...

I know, I know -- exercising doesn't take long. My runs are just shy of the time it takes for dinner to be prepared. But I've been so busy! Between working part-time (shush) and our newest little adventure, a puppy, time seems to be flying by.

Here's our family's newest bundle of joy, Piper.

At 5 months old, she is a bundle of energy. When I'm not running after her picking up her poop (sorry), I'm trying to tire her out. That counts as cardio, right?

Looks like it's time to finish my Law & Order SVU marathon, and then perhaps I'll go on a run. Tough life, huh?

Motivational Monday

{photos via Pinterest}

Happy workouts!

Stone Cold Abs

As a regular watcher of The Vampire Diaries (god, why are they all so hot?), I've definitely noticed the amazing bodies all of the girls have, Nina Dobrev in particular. She has a gorgeous, long and lean body and teeny, tiny waist and I'm definitely envious.  When I saw this video, I knew I had to try it out at least once a week at the gym. I'll be doing it tonight when I visit the gym!

{photo: Google images}

For some reason I can't get the video to embed so here is the link. Let me know if any of you guys tackle this video!

Two Sides to Every Body

After hitting the gym for the first time since I've moved back home (what, it's only been like 3 days!), I found a new machine that I love. Is it still a machine even if it doesn't move? I digress. I love this baby because you can use free weights to work your back, abs and more importantly, the sides/muffin top.

Queue the smallest picture in existence...

{photo: Google images}

I can still feel the burn this morning from yesterday's workout and I can honestly say I'm already seeing results -- normally there's a kind of line on my back/side that makes my back look absolutely horrendous and splits my upper and lower back in half, basically. Those who have some chubbiness will know what I'm talking about. Well, this morning I lifted up my shirt, turned around and looked at my reflection... amazing! I'm definitely going to be doing this simple exercise more because who wants a muffin top these days ever?

Fitness Q&A

I found this nice little Q&A from Breathe Deeply and Smile and I felt like it might let you guys get to know me a little better. If you decide to do it, let us know in the comments and link back so we can get to know you as well!

1. Which are you more responsive to during a workout: positive encouragement or peer pressure?
Positive encouragement! I get so aggravated when people assume I just can't do things... It doesn't make me want to show that person up, it just makes me feel like I shouldn't even bother. Positive encouragement keeps me going.

2. What’s something on your fitness bucket list? 
Run some 5ks, keep health problems at bay, and be able to keep up with my future children when I have them... Sounds crazy but there's so many parents that just watch their children run around outside and do nothing more. I want to be able to provide them with active fun and keep up a healthy lifestyle.

3. Would you rather be in a group fitness class that’s overwhelmingly crowded or awkwardly empty?  
I would rather be in a fitness class that's awkwardly empty... Hello, if I'm paying for a class I want the best I can get! If that means nobody else in the class and the trainer helping me be better, then that's great!

4. Rank these activities in order of your preference/interest (favorite to least favorite): running, Zumba, yoga, Cross Fit, swimming, hiking, biking, pilates, kickboxing, sports that involve balls, spinning, weight lifting.
Biking, weight lifting, swimming, hiking, running, yoga, sports that involve balls, and last and most certainly least, Zumba (hate it)! I've never done pilates, kickboxing, Cross Fit or spinning!

5. Would you rather work out next to someone with major B.O. or someone who grunts constantly?
Grunts constantly, I suppose. I loathe going to the gym and hearing nothing but grunting and weights banging on the floor, but B.O. is something I literally can't be next to because I'll gag.

6. What’s your standard workout wear? (T-shirt/tank top, shorts/capris?)
Usually yoga pants or yoga leggings with an oversized tee. If it's hot, throw me in a pair of shorts and maybe a tank top.

7. Favorite post-workout snack?
I used to constantly drink protein shakes after my workouts but I ran out and, my god, that stuff is expensive! So now I'll usually eat a piece of fruit.

8. Which are your strongest muscles? Most neglected?
My strongest muscles are probably my legs, but I loathe working on them. My favorite is my arms. My most neglected muscles are probably my abs. Whoops... I'll get better!

9. Would you rather be trained by Jillian Michaels or Bob Harper? (Or a favorite celeb trainer of your choice!)
I don't know who Bob Harper is but I would probably prefer to be trained by him. Like I said in my first question, I don't like people screaming at me to do things or else give up. Everyone goes at their own pace and I don't think I would appreciate Jillian Michael's technique.

10. What’s one thing you’ve learned about fitness or your body in the last year?
My body can do absolutely amazing things. I never knew the power that was stored in my unused muscles. It's amazing how I can be dripping sweat, absolutely exhausted but energized at the same time.

Tortilla Pizza

This is an obvious one, but still worth mentioning. 

Pizza is the best, but we can't afford to eat it every day (this statement has been approved by both my body and my wallet.)

Soooo, make it yourself.

You will need:
Tortilla wraps (any flavor/blend... and I use mini wraps)
Pizza or tomato sauce (you have control! make it organic)
Cheese
Toppings (sauteed veggies, fresh spinach or tomato, pepperoni, etc.)

Assembly is obvious: sauce goes on tortilla, followed by cheese, then toppings, and perhaps a sprinkling more of cheese.  Pop that baby in the [toaster] oven at 450 F (if you use the mini tortillas like me it fits in the toaster oven!) and watch until the cheese is bubbly.

I like this pizza because it is very low carb, and you can control the size and what goes on it.  

Google images

>>>Want to make it gourmet?! Try this on for size:
Spread soft brie on a wrap, thinly sliced granny smith apples, and a drizzle of honey.  (Protein bonus: top with apple chicken sausage medallions from Fresco.)

>>>Want to make it extra cheese-y?!  Sit your assembled (but not cooked) pizza on a second tortilla that's covered only in extreme [cheddar] cheese!

Challenge Completed

Yesterday I completed my 26.2 mile challenge with a nice short 2 mile run.  It was lucky that I only had 2 miles left because it was the hottest day of the year so far, and I was sweating bullets by the time I returned to my car.

During my challenge, I had a day when I was supposed to run 4 miles.  I was becoming frustrated that neither my endurance nor my speed was improving, so I decided to try something new.  I ran as fast as I could sustain for one mile, then walked .5 mile, ran as fast as I could sustain for another mile, walked another .5 mile, then ran one more mile.  When I calculated my speed, I averaged an 8:30 pace during the times I was running.  Considering that I started my training at upwards of a 10:40 pace for only 1.5-2 miles, I was pleased.

My next step was to close the gaps where I had walked.  I ran 3 miles one day, then 4 miles another day, a big 5 miler, and finally my 2 miles yesterday.  I now average:

• 9:30s in the 3-4 mile range (and I don't have to stop to walk!)
• 10:50 ish for my 5 miler (I'd like to blame the high pollen counts for that one) 
• and 8:30 for my 2 mile run yesterday (in the hot, hot sun)  

My weight has not changed, my legs and bum are perhaps only slightly trimmer, but I feel better.  And, get this, I actually caught myself saying phrases like, "I'm a runner," "I just want to go for a run," and, "I love running."

yahoo images

A Thousand Miles

Scratch that -- 100 miles. I just wanted a pretty title for the post.

So after somehow finding Cake vs. Scales blog, I saw a post about logging 100 miles within a month. I thought, hey, that's doable. With tons of stuff coming up (okay, basically just moving back home for the summer forever), I hope I can fit in working out at least once a day! Even if it is just walking around the very large block at home. And now that the weather is warming up, I can dust off my bike and easily ride 10 miles a day.

I think that this goal will help me achieve a sense of accomplishment with the obvious workout that will bring me closer to being able to wear a bikini again!

So, let's get down to business... let's defeat the Huns!

{photo: Google images}

PS Great news! I'm going to sign up for my first ever 5k for Father's Day! Excitement all around!

Boston Strong

It is unbelievable to think that over a week has passed since the tragedy in Boston.  Four lives were lost, over 170 people were injured, and about 50 victims still remain hospitalized; a major city was shut down, an entire country held it's breath, and millions of lives around the world were touched, changed.  

In the wake of this terror, fear has been replaced with unity, strength, and perseverance.  From the London Marathon to the UMass Dartmouth campus, people have joined together in moments of silence to honor and remember the victims from April 15th.  And once the silence is broken, we carry on.  We go back to class or work.  We don our RedSox caps and go back to Boston.  We run.

I ran in a 5K on Saturday.  Then I ran 5 miles on Sunday.  And today, I am going to run again.  

I challenge you to run until you have covered 26.2 miles, even if it takes you 52 days.  Get out there and run.  Run for those who couldn't finish the race.  Run for those who will never run again.  Run to prove that you, too, are Boston Strong.  

cognoscenti.wbur.org

My Beloved Boston

I was just there cheering on my favorite baseball team. I was just there wandering the streets of Boston. I was just there admiring the closest city to my heart.

The events that recently took place in Boston break my heart. It's easy to say that we're Boston Strong and that we'll get through it, but it's terrifying. It's terrifying to know we can't celebrate something that binds us so closely together. It's terrifying to even cross the street and look at everyone suspiciously as if they could have been the bombers. It makes me sick to my stomach to think that people hate us so much that they feel the need to ruin the lives of innocent people.

I really don't have the words to express the fear and sadness I feel over the situation. My thoughts and prayers are with those who were directly and indirectly affected by this terrible and senseless act.

If you wish to help out in any way, here's how.

{photo: google images}

Slap On the Wrist

I have been a bad, bad blogger. So sorry for my lack of posting. I really couldn't tell you why I haven't... just feeling a bit uninspired, I suppose. I've been up to my usual routine of classes, napping, working out and, of course, hitting up the gym. Though my gym routine has been slacking a bit (second slap on the wrist), I'm just as determined as ever.

I've also been receiving compliments on my efforts, which is the nicest feeling in the world. It's great to have people acknowledging my hard work at the gym! It's honestly giving me a big head, but I'm trying my best to deflate.

I can't wait to be finished with this semester and to go home so I can go back to eating what I choose and actually being able to bake healthy stuff.  Sure, there's some options here at school for eating healthy, but they're all so bland and it's hard to keep eating the same things every day.

So here's hoping that I can finish this semester off with a healthy mind and more motivation than ever.

Run Numero Dos

Today was my second run in my training for the 10K.  I've been using the "Map my Fitness" app on my iphone to track my runs through GPS.  Today I ran 2.17 miles at an average 9:46 pace... only sightly faster than on Tuesday.  I guess I can't blame my dog anymore for my pace... today was all me.  It's tough because I'm used to running either on a treadmill (which I now hate) or on the track (which I secretly love).  There is no change in terrain or elevation on either.  But now I am forcing myself to run on a new section of the bike path near my apartment and it has killer hills!  I think I am in for a major shock when I fly from New England to Colorado for this race... the change in elevation is going to kill me  :/

I haven't tried running on the trail with my ipod yet.  I did it once when I was running on the track and HATED it... for some reason I was better off focusing on the run than zoning out with my music.  Any opinions on running with headphones?  

Photo: bodyquestadventure.blogspot.com 

BolderBoulder

Helloooo!  It's been a while since I have posted, but what with the random weather patterns and even stranger cold viruses I have been battling, there hasn't been much to report.  However, my boyfriend has finally convinced me to sign up for a race!  Today was my first training day for a 10K race in Boulder, CO which will take place in May.  I found a "running for beginners" schedule on Pinterest which I have decided to follow.  It's supposed to be a half-marathon training regimen, but I liked that it only has one rest day and cross-training on the other non-running days.  Also, it is kinda likely that if I feel even slightly miserable during the race I will pitch a whiny little fit and just drop out halfway through.  So, if I can push myself to run 10 miles during a training day, 6.2 will be cake-walk.  Hopefully.  

Today I ran a slow 2 miles at a 9:50 pace.  It was tough because I had my dog with me, and she isn't the best runner yet.  Every 5 steps she would be pulling so much that I couldn't swing my arms naturally, so I had to give a little tug on the leash to bring her back to my side.  I'm also still getting over a cold, so I had to swallow a nasty amount of post-nasal drip just to have an open airway.  BUT I am proud to say that I never stopped to walk once.  

Tomorrow will be a cross-training day.  The schedule says to workout for 30 minutes.  I will mix an ab and leg workout with the "Morning Workout" that Aimee posted last week.  I won't be doing it until the afternoon though, but hopefully it will have the same results....
Ciao for now!

Fiber One

After receiving my first delicious paycheck from work, I decided to go on a Target run. Oh yes, Target -- where my wallet saddens the moment I step through the sliding doors into my Wonderland. When I'm in my Wonderland, I tend to just do laps and find things to buy that didn't make an appearance on my official To Buy list.

As I'm home for the week, I decided to check out the baking aisle to scope out some healthier food to make. I found a Fiber One banana nut muffin mix (who knew that even existed?!), which I threw in my basket as soon as I laid eyes on it. I went home and made it so unbelievably fast and I'll have you know that I licked that bowl clean.

I strongly recommend buying these and making them asap. Although they are very yummy in the tummy, what I don't recommend is scarfing down more than one in a sitting -- that's a stomachache you don't want to deal with.

Workout Wednesday: "the Morning Workout"

Phew, I am beat. How sad! I looked at this picture and thought, easy peasy, I'll just go through this quickly before my shower. Yeah, no -- halfway through the second set of these and I was dead. Not to mention the fact that I was only doing about 15 girly push ups and half the amount of lunges.

If you're looking for an easy to follow skipping-the-gym workouts, definitely give this Bad Larry a try.

{photo: À la Corinne}

Spring Break

Hello dolls!

I am officially on spring break! Actually, it started friday night after my long ass shift at work. Can I get a hell yes for raking in the money, though?

Anyway, I must admit that I have yet to work out since last thursday... Sorry body! I haven't had time and quite honestly, I've just wanted to be lazy these first few days to be in relaxation mode.  I fully intend on working out tomorrow. (Though I did lose 2 more pounds! That's 6 so far!)

For now, I'm taking it easy on the food front and trying my best to make good decisions that will bring my body happiness rather than regret. And a special thanks to my mother for stocking up on Chobani yogurt! She knows me so well.

And because I've been pretty naughty in the sense that I haven't been blogging as much as I'd like, here's your Motivation Monday pic!

Plateau

Is it even possible to plateau when I've only lost a total of 4 pounds? No idea. I'm frustrated that I'm still not dropping pounds. Sure, I feel better and I look a bit better in some places, but it's seriously upsetting to hop on the scale and want to cry looking at that number. I know it's not good to be thinking in such shallow terms, but it's upsetting.

I was recently browsing Taralynn McNitt's blog, Undressed Skeleton, and I found a great post about plateau. I'm honestly close to printing this out and posting it up on my dorm room wall so I can remember these tips for achieving success.

• Increase your calories and increase your workouts.
• Change your workout routine. Try new classes or focus on new muscles.
• Don’t eat the same thing over and over
• Continue to eat healthy, but take a couple days off working out to allow your body to relax and your muscles to rebuild. 
• Have a cheat meal to increase your leptin levels, shocking your metabolism, causing it to speed up. 
• Relax. Find a way to relive your stress. Yoga a couple times a week can help relax your body and muscles.
• Treat yourself. Depriving can cause stress and binge eating.
• Add strength training and weight lifting into your work out routine to speed up metabolism. 
• Calorie cycle. Don’t eat the same amount of calories everyday. Go up and down, but never under your recommended intake. If you go under, you will put your body in a starvation mode. That will seriously damage your body.
• Stop weighing yourself. Focus on the measuring tape. Your scale may not be changing, but you may be losing inches. 
• Be patient. It didn’t take you overnight to gain the unwanted weight. It won’t come off overnight either.
• Increase your water intake to speed your metabolism. 
• Eat more fiber.
• Increase your social life activities. Going out and clearing your mind from a weight-loss plateau can help you relax and push forward.

I understand that obviously weight loss is something that will come gradually, as I am literally starting from scratch -- I'm at the heaviest I've ever been and honestly, I'm just tired of not being happy. I do honestly want change and I am going to try keeping each of these tips in mind throughout my days.

What is your #1 tip for success in your weight loss/journey to health?

Spinach Chips

Preheat oven to 250 degrees.

Coat your spinach in a little bit of oil (I used coconut oil.)  

Lay the spinach in a single layer on a cookie sheet covered with parchment paper.

Sprinkle with salt, pepper, onion powder, etc.  (pick your poison)

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the leaves are dry and crispy.  

Chips.