Mon, Feb 28
Around 1:30pm
Ran 35 minutes at indoor track at LifeCenter
Distance: 3.46 miles; Pace: 10'08"
After two false starts today I finally got my training run in. I am bound and determined not to miss one! First, I slept in because I was kept up all night by a crazy thunderstorm that seemed to go on, and on, and on! Then the plan was to run at lunch. Great plan...until I got to the locker room and realized I forgot my towel. Crap...foiled again! Okay, so plan C included leaving work a little earlier than planned (I had Zach's conference at 3pm), run at LifeCenter and then head to the conference. That was the ticket!
So, success! No workout missed. However, I have another dilemma of sorts. I had a particular pain in the neck right after my run today. Thankfully, it went away in about a half-hour after my shower, but it is really strange. I'm wondering if I'm holding my neck tilted to one side when I run. I was just reading in my running magazine how you can get your form videotaped in order to correct form problems (for lots of money). I'm not going that far, but I did go so far to ask my husband if he had ever noticed if I do that. Without missing a beat he said, "yeah, you tilt your head to one side". Okay, good to know! Now, I just have to figure out how to counteract that in order to fix it Hmmm. I'm wondering if going the opposite direction on the track would help. Need to ask my runner friends, I guess!! The only problem is that the track direction is already predetermined and I go the same direction on M, F and Sat. Wed is different so that is good. And, of course, all of this doesn't matter once I'm back outside. Come on spring!!
Monday, February 28, 2011
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Sensitivity Training
Happily I was down 2.2 pounds at the scale this morning!! Granted, I still had to pay my $11 because I'm still more than two pounds above my goal, but who cares! The important part is that I'm moving in the right direction, as I had to remind the clerk this morning who rudely announced that I needed to pay BEFORE acknowledging that I was down. Now, I don't need cartwheels, hoots and hollers, noisemakers, and flowers, from her, but come on...let's lead with the fact that I'm going the right direction, rather than that I have to still pay, shall we??!! Most of the time I have had excellent experience with the staff at WW, but his morning I was disappointed. But hey, maybe she was just having an off day. We've all had those! So, I'll give her the benefit of the doubt and see what happens when I'm down again next week!!!
Thank you for the Music
Sat, Feb 26
8:30am - ish - Ran the track at LifeCenter
Distance: 5 miles; Time: 51'57"; Pace: 10'22"
Good run this morning! I felt strong and it felt a little bit easier to run 5 miles this week than last week (my first time at that distance). And I think I was a bit faster today so that is always good, I suppose. I was trying to make a mental note about how I felt throughout the run.
Here's the breakdown of today: I felt good and warmed up after the first mile. Then, by the half-way point I felt like I was flying. Between mile 3 and 4 was the hardest part - I really had to push it through. Probably partly because this has been my "go-to" distance for so long - 3 miles. Good thing I had my son's crazy frog song version of "Cotton-Eyed Joe" as well as some Dixie Chicks ("Good-Bye Earl") to propel me. Oh, and I can't forget the 80's throw-back, "Money For Nothing", by Dire Straits. Those were all good motivators. I'm pleased with my new long run track I created last weekend. Then between 4 and 5 miles I felt like I was on autopilot. I told myself...just one more mile. I mean, it is just one more mile, right?? Just one more mile. Simple. Sound like a new mantra to me!
8:30am - ish - Ran the track at LifeCenter
Distance: 5 miles; Time: 51'57"; Pace: 10'22"
Good run this morning! I felt strong and it felt a little bit easier to run 5 miles this week than last week (my first time at that distance). And I think I was a bit faster today so that is always good, I suppose. I was trying to make a mental note about how I felt throughout the run.
Here's the breakdown of today: I felt good and warmed up after the first mile. Then, by the half-way point I felt like I was flying. Between mile 3 and 4 was the hardest part - I really had to push it through. Probably partly because this has been my "go-to" distance for so long - 3 miles. Good thing I had my son's crazy frog song version of "Cotton-Eyed Joe" as well as some Dixie Chicks ("Good-Bye Earl") to propel me. Oh, and I can't forget the 80's throw-back, "Money For Nothing", by Dire Straits. Those were all good motivators. I'm pleased with my new long run track I created last weekend. Then between 4 and 5 miles I felt like I was on autopilot. I told myself...just one more mile. I mean, it is just one more mile, right?? Just one more mile. Simple. Sound like a new mantra to me!
Friday, February 25, 2011
The Gift of Today
Fri, Feb 25
9am - Ran 30 minutes on the Indoor Track at LifeCenter
Distance - 2.95 miles; Pace - 10'13"
Racquetball and Basketball fun - about an hour
So today was a gift in a lot of ways. Hudson schools had a snow day (again) so Z was off and, miracle of miracles, John Carroll was actually closed!! Hallelujah, I still can't believe it! I got home at about 10:30pm last night due to late events at work and so I didn't get to bed until about midnight - way beyond by 10pm bedtime that I've come to enjoy (and need in order to get up at 5am). As I went to bed, getting up to run at 5am was not looking promising, especially with the snow in the forecast. But, like I said, I had a snow day! Ahhhh...I got up late (6:30am), had breakfast and coffee and for a hot minute thought of not running today. Relax, I said a hot minute. I quickly shook that off as I called LifeCenter to find out they were indeed open and were holding a racquetball court for me and the Z-man. After I finally convinced him that shorts and sweatpants were a much better option than wearing jeans to work out in, Zach grudgingly shut off the computer, shoved in a bowl of cereal and off we went.
I ran for my 30 minutes - Zach joined me for like a lap and a half. Then after "way too much stretching, Mom", we finally hit the racquetball around for a bit, and then played some hoops. He had to teach me the proper way to shoot that he has learned in gym class and I was a quick study, apparently, as I held my own in our game of "Around the World." It was so much fun! Not only did I insure that I was getting my workout in today, but I also had some physical fun with my dude. Much better than a morning filled with video games, me thinks. Oh, and I have to add that on our way out of LifeCenter the woman at the front desk made a point to tell me that Zach was a very polite little boy (asking for equipment, etc). Music to any Mom's ears.
Our afternoon was lazy, but equally delightful. We picked up some Subway and headed over to spend lunch, and the afternoon as it turned out, with Grandma P. and little Brittany. We watched some lifetime movies, Z played Legos and yes, I even took a nap. Ahhh, what a good day. I hope yours was equally good!
9am - Ran 30 minutes on the Indoor Track at LifeCenter
Distance - 2.95 miles; Pace - 10'13"
Racquetball and Basketball fun - about an hour
So today was a gift in a lot of ways. Hudson schools had a snow day (again) so Z was off and, miracle of miracles, John Carroll was actually closed!! Hallelujah, I still can't believe it! I got home at about 10:30pm last night due to late events at work and so I didn't get to bed until about midnight - way beyond by 10pm bedtime that I've come to enjoy (and need in order to get up at 5am). As I went to bed, getting up to run at 5am was not looking promising, especially with the snow in the forecast. But, like I said, I had a snow day! Ahhhh...I got up late (6:30am), had breakfast and coffee and for a hot minute thought of not running today. Relax, I said a hot minute. I quickly shook that off as I called LifeCenter to find out they were indeed open and were holding a racquetball court for me and the Z-man. After I finally convinced him that shorts and sweatpants were a much better option than wearing jeans to work out in, Zach grudgingly shut off the computer, shoved in a bowl of cereal and off we went.
I ran for my 30 minutes - Zach joined me for like a lap and a half. Then after "way too much stretching, Mom", we finally hit the racquetball around for a bit, and then played some hoops. He had to teach me the proper way to shoot that he has learned in gym class and I was a quick study, apparently, as I held my own in our game of "Around the World." It was so much fun! Not only did I insure that I was getting my workout in today, but I also had some physical fun with my dude. Much better than a morning filled with video games, me thinks. Oh, and I have to add that on our way out of LifeCenter the woman at the front desk made a point to tell me that Zach was a very polite little boy (asking for equipment, etc). Music to any Mom's ears.
Our afternoon was lazy, but equally delightful. We picked up some Subway and headed over to spend lunch, and the afternoon as it turned out, with Grandma P. and little Brittany. We watched some lifetime movies, Z played Legos and yes, I even took a nap. Ahhh, what a good day. I hope yours was equally good!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
A Radical Goal
John Carroll is celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2011 so there are lots of celebrations going on during the year. One of the priests who is really into running has put a challenge out to the community to see if we can get 125 people to run the Cleveland marathon, 1/2 marathon or 10K on May 15. So, I've happily joined this group. We are getting jerseys and there is a small fund raising part too. It is a neat thing. The priest who is organizing this sends us weekly motivational things to keep us training and inspired to keep going. I just got one this morning and I was blown away by it and I just wanted to share it. The priest had asked this hard-core runner guy to write a little bit about his running journey and I'll share part of it here...
He is currently a 54-year-old man, but he began his running journey on his 36th birthday feeling overweight. He decided to run 3 miles during lunch. He only made it for running for one mile and ran a 10:12 pace and then walked the other two. He continued running over the next three years during lunch for 3 miles and ended up losing 30 pounds. He started increasing his distance running with others for 4-6 miles outside. He ran his first marathon in Cleveland in 1999 and has run 52 others since. No, that is not a typo - I said fifty-two. Here are his current race totals: 53 marathons, 3-50K's and 2-50 milers. Oh, in addition in 2008 and 2009 combined he ran a total of 20 marathons. OMG.
What makes this story so unbelievable in addition to the sheer number of miles this man has run, is that he doesn't look at all like a "typical runner". He is a little stocky and you would never guess just by looking at him that he is a hard core runner.
I never thought I would or could run a 5K and now I'm training for 1/2 marathon. Now, some of us will never run a marathon or maybe even a mile or maybe don't even want to. But, my question is, what goal do you have that is just out of the realm of possibility for you? What is just so radical that would make you say right now, "no way, I could never do that"? Really think about it. Now, let me say to you...I double-dog-dare you...
He is currently a 54-year-old man, but he began his running journey on his 36th birthday feeling overweight. He decided to run 3 miles during lunch. He only made it for running for one mile and ran a 10:12 pace and then walked the other two. He continued running over the next three years during lunch for 3 miles and ended up losing 30 pounds. He started increasing his distance running with others for 4-6 miles outside. He ran his first marathon in Cleveland in 1999 and has run 52 others since. No, that is not a typo - I said fifty-two. Here are his current race totals: 53 marathons, 3-50K's and 2-50 milers. Oh, in addition in 2008 and 2009 combined he ran a total of 20 marathons. OMG.
What makes this story so unbelievable in addition to the sheer number of miles this man has run, is that he doesn't look at all like a "typical runner". He is a little stocky and you would never guess just by looking at him that he is a hard core runner.
I never thought I would or could run a 5K and now I'm training for 1/2 marathon. Now, some of us will never run a marathon or maybe even a mile or maybe don't even want to. But, my question is, what goal do you have that is just out of the realm of possibility for you? What is just so radical that would make you say right now, "no way, I could never do that"? Really think about it. Now, let me say to you...I double-dog-dare you...
Yoooowwwwzzzzaaaa!
Thurs, Feb 24
5:30am - Bootcamp at LifeCenter
That was a great overall workout! I think Troy was happy we were all there this morning and made up a kick-butt workout for us. We did lots of different circuits featuring some of our faves...many, many push-ups (lost count)...back exercises and lots of circuits using the whole gym. Those are fun - bring on the lunges. I had to bust out a story during the two minute plank...ugh.
We did a fun new thing Troy made up called the "UNFIT". It is sorta like the game "horse". We had to do a certain exercise (five different ones) for like 60 seconds and if any of us couldn't do it the entire time we would earn a letter. All of us had one bad one and each earned a "U", but hey, not bad! If we would have gotten all the letters, we would have had to run. No, not that! It is a cross-training day! I earned my "U" during the plank hold. We were supposed to do a plank hold for 2 minutes...with no breaks. We usually do one minute at a time. I made it with like 20 second left. Next time I'll get it!
5:30am - Bootcamp at LifeCenter
That was a great overall workout! I think Troy was happy we were all there this morning and made up a kick-butt workout for us. We did lots of different circuits featuring some of our faves...many, many push-ups (lost count)...back exercises and lots of circuits using the whole gym. Those are fun - bring on the lunges. I had to bust out a story during the two minute plank...ugh.
We did a fun new thing Troy made up called the "UNFIT". It is sorta like the game "horse". We had to do a certain exercise (five different ones) for like 60 seconds and if any of us couldn't do it the entire time we would earn a letter. All of us had one bad one and each earned a "U", but hey, not bad! If we would have gotten all the letters, we would have had to run. No, not that! It is a cross-training day! I earned my "U" during the plank hold. We were supposed to do a plank hold for 2 minutes...with no breaks. We usually do one minute at a time. I made it with like 20 second left. Next time I'll get it!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Going the distance!
Wed, Feb 23
Approx 6am - Ran the track at LifeCenter
35 minutes; 3.44 miles; Pace: 10'13"
Today felt like a hard run. My legs were sore during my workout. Now, they are fine, but they felt sore during the run. I felt slow today too - probably because there was a really fast woman who kept passing me on the track. I started feeling badly about my speed, but then realized that I recognized her from a 5K in October, I think. She placed for her age group (I think first!). So, speed is all relative I suppose. I have to just remember that it is not about speed for me. It is about getting it done. Showing up and completing the run - check. Maybe at some point I'll be about the speed, but for now it is all about going the distance, baby!
Approx 6am - Ran the track at LifeCenter
35 minutes; 3.44 miles; Pace: 10'13"
Today felt like a hard run. My legs were sore during my workout. Now, they are fine, but they felt sore during the run. I felt slow today too - probably because there was a really fast woman who kept passing me on the track. I started feeling badly about my speed, but then realized that I recognized her from a 5K in October, I think. She placed for her age group (I think first!). So, speed is all relative I suppose. I have to just remember that it is not about speed for me. It is about getting it done. Showing up and completing the run - check. Maybe at some point I'll be about the speed, but for now it is all about going the distance, baby!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
God Bless the Broken Road
I was so flattered to be asked by a new friend for a WW pep talk of sorts yesterday. She just needed to talk a bit and get some advice from someone who has traveled a little further on this weight loss road than she. I enjoyed talking with her and hopefully she was able to take a few nuggets from our conversation to help her.
What I found so amazing from this interaction is just how different we all are. As I was listening to her story and making some suggestions, it just reinforced how we are all indeed on our own weight loss or weight maintenance journey. While suggestions are helpful, it is so true that what works for one person may not work for another. The same is also true for the same person - one time it will work and one time it won't! This is a blessing and a curse, I think. I'm glad the road is not straight, but filled with delightful opportunities for us to learn more about ourselves, our habits, and our idiosyncrasies and therefore grow (on the inside - not bigger!!). So, God bless the broken road that has led me to learn more about me and meet SO many wonderful new friends.
What I found so amazing from this interaction is just how different we all are. As I was listening to her story and making some suggestions, it just reinforced how we are all indeed on our own weight loss or weight maintenance journey. While suggestions are helpful, it is so true that what works for one person may not work for another. The same is also true for the same person - one time it will work and one time it won't! This is a blessing and a curse, I think. I'm glad the road is not straight, but filled with delightful opportunities for us to learn more about ourselves, our habits, and our idiosyncrasies and therefore grow (on the inside - not bigger!!). So, God bless the broken road that has led me to learn more about me and meet SO many wonderful new friends.
She's Got Legs....
Tues, Feb 22
5:30am - Bootcamp at LifeCenter
Good overall workout, but focused more on legs today. We did this one workout that Troy called the 200 rep workout which rocked! It consisted of 50 plank pushups, 25 dips on the steps, 50 squats, 25 regular pushups and 25 squat jumps and 25 of something else, I can't remember what! We could mix it up however we wanted so we broke it out. We had to do extra stuff at the end of the hour because we got done quicker than Troy thought - so he has making stuff up on the fly. Yeah, that's right - we bad!
5:30am - Bootcamp at LifeCenter
Good overall workout, but focused more on legs today. We did this one workout that Troy called the 200 rep workout which rocked! It consisted of 50 plank pushups, 25 dips on the steps, 50 squats, 25 regular pushups and 25 squat jumps and 25 of something else, I can't remember what! We could mix it up however we wanted so we broke it out. We had to do extra stuff at the end of the hour because we got done quicker than Troy thought - so he has making stuff up on the fly. Yeah, that's right - we bad!
Monday, February 21, 2011
Trust the Training
Mon, Feb 21 - Week 3 has begun!
Morning
Ran 35 minutes at LifeCenter track
Not sure about distance or pace because my iPod got stuck...ugh!
You know that phrase, trust the process? Is it part of a 12-step program mantra? Not sure where I heard it from a long time ago, but I couldn't get it out of my head this weekend. I kept thinking about it for two reasons, the first in terms of weight loss. Sometimes we can be doing all the "right" things, but it takes a while for it to show up on the scale. BUT, eventually it does...in time. Trust the process. The other reason I kept thinking about it was in terms of training. After my first 5-miler on Saturday, I had a little bit of ankle pain or stiffness really later that day. I was a bit nervous always worrying about injury, etc. But I just kept thinking "trust the process" or trust the training. There is a reason there is s day of rest after the long run day. By Sunday morning after I walked the dog, my ankle was back to normal and totally fine during and after my run today. Trust the process and the training.
Morning
Ran 35 minutes at LifeCenter track
Not sure about distance or pace because my iPod got stuck...ugh!
You know that phrase, trust the process? Is it part of a 12-step program mantra? Not sure where I heard it from a long time ago, but I couldn't get it out of my head this weekend. I kept thinking about it for two reasons, the first in terms of weight loss. Sometimes we can be doing all the "right" things, but it takes a while for it to show up on the scale. BUT, eventually it does...in time. Trust the process. The other reason I kept thinking about it was in terms of training. After my first 5-miler on Saturday, I had a little bit of ankle pain or stiffness really later that day. I was a bit nervous always worrying about injury, etc. But I just kept thinking "trust the process" or trust the training. There is a reason there is s day of rest after the long run day. By Sunday morning after I walked the dog, my ankle was back to normal and totally fine during and after my run today. Trust the process and the training.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Down Finally!
Finally, finally, after like 6 weeks, today the scale was my friend! I was down 0.8 lbs from last week. I was kinda disappointed at first. I mean what part of running 12 miles, doing a boot camp class and a spinning class all in one week equals losing 0.8 lbs???? That is sorta ridiculous. And, I'm staying within my points...I promise! One silver lining in all this is that this is the week I would normally be up a little (monthly deal) and I was down in spite of that so that is good. Some say it is muscle gain, but I don't buy it. I think maybe it is just my body adjusting to all of this. We'll go with that. My running amount is only going to increase as the weeks go on so it should even out eventually - I hope! Cuz I hate paying every friggin week!!!! But, that is the way I hold myself accountable...its okay. My success is not totally controlled by that scale - I mean I ran 5 friggin' miles this morning, come on!
Running out of track(s)
Sat, Feb 19
5 miles, Lifecenter Track
53:37; Pace: 10:42
So, I ran 5 miles today for the first time...EVER! I had made it to 4 before, but never 5. The run itself felt pretty good, but I must admit I'm glad tomorrow is my rest day. Whew! I don't have pain anywhere really, I just feel that I ran 5 miles which is okay...because I did! The funny part of my run today was that as I started on mile 5 I realized that my "madrunning" music track on my iPod was probably going to end. I had only put like 14 songs on it a long time ago when I was only running three miles. So I wondered what would happen then...would the music just stop? Would it stop tracking my workout? Nope, no worries. It just started out at the beginning again! This was a good reminder that I need to make some new and longer tracks soon.
The highlight of my run, however, was that I met another woman who is also training for the Cleveland half, is new to running and just ran 5 miles for the first time today too! Oh yeah, we high-fived. We exchanged info and it will be fun to encourage each other through our training this spring. It has been neat to run into so many people who are also running in this race. Just so cool.
But, I will enjoy my day of rest tomorrow and be back at it on Monday.
5 miles, Lifecenter Track
53:37; Pace: 10:42
So, I ran 5 miles today for the first time...EVER! I had made it to 4 before, but never 5. The run itself felt pretty good, but I must admit I'm glad tomorrow is my rest day. Whew! I don't have pain anywhere really, I just feel that I ran 5 miles which is okay...because I did! The funny part of my run today was that as I started on mile 5 I realized that my "madrunning" music track on my iPod was probably going to end. I had only put like 14 songs on it a long time ago when I was only running three miles. So I wondered what would happen then...would the music just stop? Would it stop tracking my workout? Nope, no worries. It just started out at the beginning again! This was a good reminder that I need to make some new and longer tracks soon.
The highlight of my run, however, was that I met another woman who is also training for the Cleveland half, is new to running and just ran 5 miles for the first time today too! Oh yeah, we high-fived. We exchanged info and it will be fun to encourage each other through our training this spring. It has been neat to run into so many people who are also running in this race. Just so cool.
But, I will enjoy my day of rest tomorrow and be back at it on Monday.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Blown Away
Fri, Feb 18
12noon, Ran outside!!
About 35-40 minutes
Distance - ??
So, first time running outside today since October, I think, save for the New Year's Eve 5K which turned out to be like 50 degrees! It was great, but windy! I was literally almost blown away! I don't have good running stats today as I brought the wrong shoes. Of course I didn't realize this until after I started my run and my iPod wouldn't connect. Duh. The chip is in my newer shoes. I was a little worried about running in my older shoes, but it turned out okay after all. No music and no tracking...just me, the road and the wind. I was blown away by some other things too: how nice it was to be outside again in shorts and a long-sleeved shirt, in spite of a few melting snow piles, and how how much stronger I felt running today than last fall. I was also more adaptable today than normal. Usually if I had the wrong shoes, or no music I would have a minor freak-out or at least at minimum some anxiety about the situation. But this time, I was like, okay, whatever - let's do dis. I enjoy being on this training schedule because it is like I don't have to make the choice everyday. Will I or won't I work out? Nope...I have to do it. The choice has already been made. Cool.
12noon, Ran outside!!
About 35-40 minutes
Distance - ??
So, first time running outside today since October, I think, save for the New Year's Eve 5K which turned out to be like 50 degrees! It was great, but windy! I was literally almost blown away! I don't have good running stats today as I brought the wrong shoes. Of course I didn't realize this until after I started my run and my iPod wouldn't connect. Duh. The chip is in my newer shoes. I was a little worried about running in my older shoes, but it turned out okay after all. No music and no tracking...just me, the road and the wind. I was blown away by some other things too: how nice it was to be outside again in shorts and a long-sleeved shirt, in spite of a few melting snow piles, and how how much stronger I felt running today than last fall. I was also more adaptable today than normal. Usually if I had the wrong shoes, or no music I would have a minor freak-out or at least at minimum some anxiety about the situation. But this time, I was like, okay, whatever - let's do dis. I enjoy being on this training schedule because it is like I don't have to make the choice everyday. Will I or won't I work out? Nope...I have to do it. The choice has already been made. Cool.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
The Shroud is Lifted!
Thurs, Feb 17
6:30pm, Spinning Class, Life Center
60 minutes of spinning - biked about 21 miles
So, I was headed to my Bosu class tonight for my cross-training workout, however, I arrived to find that the instructor's child was sick and she could not get a sub. At first I was just going to do the elliptical or something, but then I asked the front desk staff if there was a spinning class going on at all tonight. They said one was starting at 6:30pm - same time as Bosu - it was meant to be. So I went down to the "mystery" room to get my first spinning lesson. I met the instructor and she got my bike all set up for me. She also told me it was "race day" so I didn't have to do everything they were doing. Little did I know then that I would not be able to do what they were doing if my life depended on it!!!
It was pretty interesting. I had a great workout - totally different muscles than running...I can see why it is good for cross training. I did not do the "jumping" that they did. I could not even do the "third position" option that they were doing throughout the races. This is the position in which you are standing on the bike. You know how you did that as s kid going up a hill? I thought it would be the same thing. Not so much. I could do about 3 seconds before having to sit down. I decided just to increase my resistance and just concentrate on increasing my RPM's to what the instructor said. It was a great workout - just different. Oh, and my butt hurt!! I think because I really didn't stand up that much the seat starting getting to me.
The instructor encouraged me to come back and that it takes awhile to build up to all the different positions on the bike. She also said I came for like the hardest workout that they do (race day). Hey, at least I did it! Now, that the mystery has been solved, I'm hoping to make spinning a regular part of my workout somehow.
6:30pm, Spinning Class, Life Center
60 minutes of spinning - biked about 21 miles
So, I was headed to my Bosu class tonight for my cross-training workout, however, I arrived to find that the instructor's child was sick and she could not get a sub. At first I was just going to do the elliptical or something, but then I asked the front desk staff if there was a spinning class going on at all tonight. They said one was starting at 6:30pm - same time as Bosu - it was meant to be. So I went down to the "mystery" room to get my first spinning lesson. I met the instructor and she got my bike all set up for me. She also told me it was "race day" so I didn't have to do everything they were doing. Little did I know then that I would not be able to do what they were doing if my life depended on it!!!
It was pretty interesting. I had a great workout - totally different muscles than running...I can see why it is good for cross training. I did not do the "jumping" that they did. I could not even do the "third position" option that they were doing throughout the races. This is the position in which you are standing on the bike. You know how you did that as s kid going up a hill? I thought it would be the same thing. Not so much. I could do about 3 seconds before having to sit down. I decided just to increase my resistance and just concentrate on increasing my RPM's to what the instructor said. It was a great workout - just different. Oh, and my butt hurt!! I think because I really didn't stand up that much the seat starting getting to me.
The instructor encouraged me to come back and that it takes awhile to build up to all the different positions on the bike. She also said I came for like the hardest workout that they do (race day). Hey, at least I did it! Now, that the mystery has been solved, I'm hoping to make spinning a regular part of my workout somehow.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
The Breakfast Club
Wed, Feb 16
5:30am, Track at LifeCenter
Ran 35 minutes; 3.34 miles; Pace: 10'32"
Good run today! As I was running today I was people watching again as I am wont to do. It helps keep away boredom and it is just fun. Today I made special note of the different populations of folks that frequent the gym at this early morning hour and I thought I'd introduce them to you. First, let me start by saying that this is probably the most dedicated group of people who use the facility. I mean, by routinely coming to a gym at 5am takes a severe commitment (and maybe a touch of insanity). I also want to make mention of how friendly they all are. It is a special camaraderie that you can feel when you are there. It is like we are all in the same boat; there to get in our workout very early - it is something we have in common - in addition to the crazy gene, that is. So with that being said as a primer, here is the cast of characters who are a regular part of the early crew:
"Boot-Campers" - Well you have already met us in other blog entries. There are usually three of us - ladies in our late 30's and 40's (EARLY 40's!). We are there two days a week for this boot-camp class and we take no prisoners!
"Retired Racquetballers" - These are the gray heads that are bustin' it in the courts in pairs or even quads. They have the proper headbands, eyegear, towels and occasionally let out the loud grunts that echo as they slam or are slammed against the glass.
"Cardio Crew" - This is the group of men and women who work out in the special cardio room filled with treadmills and ellipticals. I'm not sure how those machines are different than the ones in the main cardio area, except that they are in a special room behind a closed door. Maybe they block out the noise? No clue, but there are definitely frequent flyers in there.
"Spinners" - Three mornings a week there is a spinning class that goes on. Now I have to admit I have never entered this area. It is shrouded with mystery for me as it is always very dark in the there, people are focused, the leader is intense, and the people always come out sweaty and whooped! Maybe I should try it!
"Middle-Aged Musclemen" - This is the group of men who are probably in their late 30's and 40's who are the lifters. They are usually partnered up and pretty much stay in the weight room. They are not overly big, but I imagine just trying to keep in shape and prevent or get rid of the middle-age bulge.
"Cross-trainers" - These dudes are similar to the musclemen, but a little bit more fit and/or hard core. There is a group of about 5 or 6 of regulars who do a variety of boot camp-esque exercises together. They use boxes, jump ropes, weights and variety of other interesting things to mix it up. They are a very friendly bunch to me and my fellow bootcampers. And their bootcamp "class" is free....hmmmm...
"The Skinny Minis" - These are the ladies who routinely read and use the stair climber, bike or other equipment for what appears for like 8 hours. They are skinny probably because they live at the club...but they get their reading in!
"Stretch-Arm-Strong" - This dude is a character and I have to call him out. He is an older gentlemen with super skinny grandpa legs and really long arms. When he stretched his arms out today he almost smacked me in the face on the track! He always wears supertight t-shirts and you can always find him drinking coffee in the lobby, post-workout.
"Track Runner" - There is this one woman who runs the track in the mornings with her iPod, and who occasionally belts out a song lyric as she is running. She is odd..and, oh wait...that's ME!
See, all of us in the Breakfast Club have our quirks. It must be the crazy gene.
5:30am, Track at LifeCenter
Ran 35 minutes; 3.34 miles; Pace: 10'32"
Good run today! As I was running today I was people watching again as I am wont to do. It helps keep away boredom and it is just fun. Today I made special note of the different populations of folks that frequent the gym at this early morning hour and I thought I'd introduce them to you. First, let me start by saying that this is probably the most dedicated group of people who use the facility. I mean, by routinely coming to a gym at 5am takes a severe commitment (and maybe a touch of insanity). I also want to make mention of how friendly they all are. It is a special camaraderie that you can feel when you are there. It is like we are all in the same boat; there to get in our workout very early - it is something we have in common - in addition to the crazy gene, that is. So with that being said as a primer, here is the cast of characters who are a regular part of the early crew:
"Boot-Campers" - Well you have already met us in other blog entries. There are usually three of us - ladies in our late 30's and 40's (EARLY 40's!). We are there two days a week for this boot-camp class and we take no prisoners!
"Retired Racquetballers" - These are the gray heads that are bustin' it in the courts in pairs or even quads. They have the proper headbands, eyegear, towels and occasionally let out the loud grunts that echo as they slam or are slammed against the glass.
"Cardio Crew" - This is the group of men and women who work out in the special cardio room filled with treadmills and ellipticals. I'm not sure how those machines are different than the ones in the main cardio area, except that they are in a special room behind a closed door. Maybe they block out the noise? No clue, but there are definitely frequent flyers in there.
"Spinners" - Three mornings a week there is a spinning class that goes on. Now I have to admit I have never entered this area. It is shrouded with mystery for me as it is always very dark in the there, people are focused, the leader is intense, and the people always come out sweaty and whooped! Maybe I should try it!
"Middle-Aged Musclemen" - This is the group of men who are probably in their late 30's and 40's who are the lifters. They are usually partnered up and pretty much stay in the weight room. They are not overly big, but I imagine just trying to keep in shape and prevent or get rid of the middle-age bulge.
"Cross-trainers" - These dudes are similar to the musclemen, but a little bit more fit and/or hard core. There is a group of about 5 or 6 of regulars who do a variety of boot camp-esque exercises together. They use boxes, jump ropes, weights and variety of other interesting things to mix it up. They are a very friendly bunch to me and my fellow bootcampers. And their bootcamp "class" is free....hmmmm...
"The Skinny Minis" - These are the ladies who routinely read and use the stair climber, bike or other equipment for what appears for like 8 hours. They are skinny probably because they live at the club...but they get their reading in!
"Stretch-Arm-Strong" - This dude is a character and I have to call him out. He is an older gentlemen with super skinny grandpa legs and really long arms. When he stretched his arms out today he almost smacked me in the face on the track! He always wears supertight t-shirts and you can always find him drinking coffee in the lobby, post-workout.
"Track Runner" - There is this one woman who runs the track in the mornings with her iPod, and who occasionally belts out a song lyric as she is running. She is odd..and, oh wait...that's ME!
See, all of us in the Breakfast Club have our quirks. It must be the crazy gene.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Let's talk turkey...
Tues, Feb 15
5:30am, Bootcamp at Lifecenter
Today was a tough arm and shoulder workout!! The toughest exercise was a superset of arms with shoulder raises, and other things that I don't know the names of, and ending with dips on the steps, but believe me when I say I was glad I had only 5 pounders! Whew! We did like 2 minutes of each exercise. To get our minds off of what we were doing, I asked if I could tell a story. There were only two of us there today. So, after I got their permission (that is important as I don't want to be the annoying chatter box), I told the "turkey" in the crockpot story. Both the trainer and the other bootcamper were cracking up! It definitely got us through it more quickly. It is funny how I can talk during some exercises, but others, ain't no way (such as plank push-ups, for example). My arms felt heavy when I was shampooing this morning, so that is a good sign! :-)
5:30am, Bootcamp at Lifecenter
Today was a tough arm and shoulder workout!! The toughest exercise was a superset of arms with shoulder raises, and other things that I don't know the names of, and ending with dips on the steps, but believe me when I say I was glad I had only 5 pounders! Whew! We did like 2 minutes of each exercise. To get our minds off of what we were doing, I asked if I could tell a story. There were only two of us there today. So, after I got their permission (that is important as I don't want to be the annoying chatter box), I told the "turkey" in the crockpot story. Both the trainer and the other bootcamper were cracking up! It definitely got us through it more quickly. It is funny how I can talk during some exercises, but others, ain't no way (such as plank push-ups, for example). My arms felt heavy when I was shampooing this morning, so that is a good sign! :-)
Monday, February 14, 2011
2nd Week and the Curse of the Mondays
Monday, Feb 14
12noon
32:14 minutes on the indoor track at JCU
3 miles; Pace: 10:44 per mile
So yes, another lunchtime run on the indoor track. Ugh. This time I went to bed at a good time, but did not sleep well at all. So, the 5am alarm was not happening. So indoor track it was and curiously my foot went numb again. Now, it hasn't done that since last Monday. So, I'm blaming Monday - like the day. Oh, and the track itself. It is banked on the sides so it is almost like uneven. It's hard to explain, but it just sucks. I even went the other direction today to try to prevent this from happening. I noticed some cramping after the first 5 minutes so I stopped for a minute to do a calf-wall stretch. That seemed to help a bit. I did the same thing 15 minutes in, but then at about 20 minutes - numb. The good news is that it dissipates as soon as I start walking, so that is good. I stretched good after too. Maybe it is just my body revolting against Mondays. That's okay, I'm only half listening!
12noon
32:14 minutes on the indoor track at JCU
3 miles; Pace: 10:44 per mile
So yes, another lunchtime run on the indoor track. Ugh. This time I went to bed at a good time, but did not sleep well at all. So, the 5am alarm was not happening. So indoor track it was and curiously my foot went numb again. Now, it hasn't done that since last Monday. So, I'm blaming Monday - like the day. Oh, and the track itself. It is banked on the sides so it is almost like uneven. It's hard to explain, but it just sucks. I even went the other direction today to try to prevent this from happening. I noticed some cramping after the first 5 minutes so I stopped for a minute to do a calf-wall stretch. That seemed to help a bit. I did the same thing 15 minutes in, but then at about 20 minutes - numb. The good news is that it dissipates as soon as I start walking, so that is good. I stretched good after too. Maybe it is just my body revolting against Mondays. That's okay, I'm only half listening!
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Veganism is looking better and better!
Okay, so I figured I was due for a light blog entry right about now...too much seriousness can get old!! So, let me tell you the story about the turkey breast that wasn't...
I decided to cook a turkey breast in the crock pot today. I had a bought a small breast last weekend and prepped it to put in the crock pot this morning. So far, so good. I followed my Google directions to the letter and got it in by 8am. So, by 5pm it was up to temperature and was ready. I was excited! It smelled like Thanksgiving all day in the kitchen without all the mess. I made mashed potatoes, corn and even gravy for our dinner. My excitement diminished immediately when I cut into the bird. The color was like a tanish-brown-yellow and I knew something was amiss. Oh, it was cooked and everything, but it just didn't look right. Mike ate his pretty quickly (he did say he was starving, however. Plus, he has learned all too often about the negative consequences of making too many critical remarks about my cooking new recipes) and Zach just picked at his. I had a couple bites before finally admitting my defeat.
"What is with this!?", I said. "The color is so gross!!" "Where is the white meat?"
Mike said, "This is like a boneless breast...they take out the breast bone and mix the white and dark meat together".
...And my fork is down. Eeewww...no wonder!!!
Then he adds, "Next time, get a turkey breast with the bone in".
You know, I didn't know I had to have a degree in "meat" or "poultry" to shop correctly. I mean who knew there would be that many choices about turkey breasts. A breast is a breast, right?! Wait...don't answer that.
Let's just say there are no leftovers of that piece of "meat" located anywhere in my fridge or freezer.
Now, where can I find a good tofurkey in Acme???
I decided to cook a turkey breast in the crock pot today. I had a bought a small breast last weekend and prepped it to put in the crock pot this morning. So far, so good. I followed my Google directions to the letter and got it in by 8am. So, by 5pm it was up to temperature and was ready. I was excited! It smelled like Thanksgiving all day in the kitchen without all the mess. I made mashed potatoes, corn and even gravy for our dinner. My excitement diminished immediately when I cut into the bird. The color was like a tanish-brown-yellow and I knew something was amiss. Oh, it was cooked and everything, but it just didn't look right. Mike ate his pretty quickly (he did say he was starving, however. Plus, he has learned all too often about the negative consequences of making too many critical remarks about my cooking new recipes) and Zach just picked at his. I had a couple bites before finally admitting my defeat.
"What is with this!?", I said. "The color is so gross!!" "Where is the white meat?"
Mike said, "This is like a boneless breast...they take out the breast bone and mix the white and dark meat together".
...And my fork is down. Eeewww...no wonder!!!
Then he adds, "Next time, get a turkey breast with the bone in".
You know, I didn't know I had to have a degree in "meat" or "poultry" to shop correctly. I mean who knew there would be that many choices about turkey breasts. A breast is a breast, right?! Wait...don't answer that.
Let's just say there are no leftovers of that piece of "meat" located anywhere in my fridge or freezer.
Now, where can I find a good tofurkey in Acme???
Saturday, February 12, 2011
My First "Long" Run
Sat, Feb 12
8:30am
Ran 4 miles at Lifecenter -indoor track
Time:41:47; Pace 10:24
So today was my first official "long" run of my training. Over the 14 weeks the Saturday run is the long run. Today was the shortest at 4 miles, but the distance will increase over the weeks. I felt really good the entire way and I could have run longer. The indoor track didn't bug me and I wasn't even that bored. I used my iPod and just people watched. This was just the workout I needed to motivate my eating plan for this week. I was up AGAIN at the scale this am and I sick of it. I'm bound and determined to break this trend this week! But that is another blog entry...
8:30am
Ran 4 miles at Lifecenter -indoor track
Time:41:47; Pace 10:24
So today was my first official "long" run of my training. Over the 14 weeks the Saturday run is the long run. Today was the shortest at 4 miles, but the distance will increase over the weeks. I felt really good the entire way and I could have run longer. The indoor track didn't bug me and I wasn't even that bored. I used my iPod and just people watched. This was just the workout I needed to motivate my eating plan for this week. I was up AGAIN at the scale this am and I sick of it. I'm bound and determined to break this trend this week! But that is another blog entry...
Friday, February 11, 2011
Best Laid Plans...
Fri, Feb 11
No workout today! It was supposed to be a 30 minute easy run today. I was supposed to have a day off today. I was supposed to have lunch with my mom. Zach was supposed to have his Valentine's Day party too. But all of that changed after Zachy got sick this morning. So, no workout. No party. And I can't even do it later because Mike is out of town until like 11:30pm tonight. And I was doing so well during my first week of training! It sucks that I have to miss a workout on day 5. That's okay...this is just a test of my resolve. I'm just thankful that Zach didn't get sick in school and that he is feeling better this afternoon. I'm also glad that Mike is coming home tonight so I'll be able to get my run in tomorrow. So, is this really a test of my resolve? No, not really - it is just life!
No workout today! It was supposed to be a 30 minute easy run today. I was supposed to have a day off today. I was supposed to have lunch with my mom. Zach was supposed to have his Valentine's Day party too. But all of that changed after Zachy got sick this morning. So, no workout. No party. And I can't even do it later because Mike is out of town until like 11:30pm tonight. And I was doing so well during my first week of training! It sucks that I have to miss a workout on day 5. That's okay...this is just a test of my resolve. I'm just thankful that Zach didn't get sick in school and that he is feeling better this afternoon. I'm also glad that Mike is coming home tonight so I'll be able to get my run in tomorrow. So, is this really a test of my resolve? No, not really - it is just life!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Stop the Insanity?!!
Thurs, Feb 10
12noon, JCU Gym
Did the Insanity tape (Max Recovery)
So today was a cross-training day and since Mike is out of town I could not go to my normal boot-camp class this am so I planned to go to this "Insanity" workout class thing during lunch. It is organized by one of the guys from ROTC at Carroll and it looks really intense - bootcamp-esque, so I figured I would join them today. It meets Tuesday and Thursdays at noon. Today, it was me, three students, two staff members and the military dude. Have you heard of this "Insanity" thing? And, no, not Susan Powder!!! That girl is crazy!!!
The class follows a video series that features an army dude instructing a bunch of people - they might all be military - not sure about that. Evidently there are a number of different routines. Today was called "Max Recovery" and it was like yoga meets the military. Lots of very good stretches involving intervals of plank push-ups and the like. It was very challenging and fun. I kept up pretty well with everyone else. It was not that much cardio so I didn't sweat too much, but good stretching so that was good. My only complaint was that I wished I had a mat! Those planks are killers on your elbows on just the gym floor. I found out after the class that the "Max Recovery" is like a break compared to the other classes. The Tuesday workout was a killer, evidently. The army guy says, "Yeah, I puked". Gulp. The guy in the military puked??!! After hearing that, part of me wants to never go back and part of me is curious about the challenge and wants to see if I can beat the military dude! I may just have to check it out next week since my boot camp is canceled. I'll let you know...
12noon, JCU Gym
Did the Insanity tape (Max Recovery)
So today was a cross-training day and since Mike is out of town I could not go to my normal boot-camp class this am so I planned to go to this "Insanity" workout class thing during lunch. It is organized by one of the guys from ROTC at Carroll and it looks really intense - bootcamp-esque, so I figured I would join them today. It meets Tuesday and Thursdays at noon. Today, it was me, three students, two staff members and the military dude. Have you heard of this "Insanity" thing? And, no, not Susan Powder!!! That girl is crazy!!!
The class follows a video series that features an army dude instructing a bunch of people - they might all be military - not sure about that. Evidently there are a number of different routines. Today was called "Max Recovery" and it was like yoga meets the military. Lots of very good stretches involving intervals of plank push-ups and the like. It was very challenging and fun. I kept up pretty well with everyone else. It was not that much cardio so I didn't sweat too much, but good stretching so that was good. My only complaint was that I wished I had a mat! Those planks are killers on your elbows on just the gym floor. I found out after the class that the "Max Recovery" is like a break compared to the other classes. The Tuesday workout was a killer, evidently. The army guy says, "Yeah, I puked". Gulp. The guy in the military puked??!! After hearing that, part of me wants to never go back and part of me is curious about the challenge and wants to see if I can beat the military dude! I may just have to check it out next week since my boot camp is canceled. I'll let you know...
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
YES!!!
Wed, Feb 9
6:30am, Lifecenter
35 minute run on the indoor track, 3.42 miles according to the iPod
I had a fantastic run today! As I said on my facebook status it was the kinda run that made me realize why I run in the first place. I don't know if it was because I had my "angry music" track (okay, it is not that angry, more like empowering...it is Kelly Clarkson and Alanis) going or what, but it was awesome! I felt good physically and I wasn't bored, looking at all the people working out. I was able to go in later this am because I have a dentist appointment today. It was weird coming out of the club and it being light out! Oh, and the best news of all? I'm happy to report that the phantom foot numbness did not appear today! Hallelujah!!!
6:30am, Lifecenter
35 minute run on the indoor track, 3.42 miles according to the iPod
I had a fantastic run today! As I said on my facebook status it was the kinda run that made me realize why I run in the first place. I don't know if it was because I had my "angry music" track (okay, it is not that angry, more like empowering...it is Kelly Clarkson and Alanis) going or what, but it was awesome! I felt good physically and I wasn't bored, looking at all the people working out. I was able to go in later this am because I have a dentist appointment today. It was weird coming out of the club and it being light out! Oh, and the best news of all? I'm happy to report that the phantom foot numbness did not appear today! Hallelujah!!!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Bosu Boot camp!
Tues, Feb 8
5:30am - 6:30pm, Bootcamp class at LifeCenter (cross-training day).
Wow! Very hard class today. We did a lot of arm work, but with the Bosu - burpees with pushups, thrusters, lifts and then a circuit of lunges across the floor holding the Bosu overhead. We ended with gassers (sprints) across the gym and I finally beat one of the other faster women. Gotta love small victories!
5:30am - 6:30pm, Bootcamp class at LifeCenter (cross-training day).
Wow! Very hard class today. We did a lot of arm work, but with the Bosu - burpees with pushups, thrusters, lifts and then a circuit of lunges across the floor holding the Bosu overhead. We ended with gassers (sprints) across the gym and I finally beat one of the other faster women. Gotta love small victories!
Monday, February 7, 2011
Starting on the road to 13.1!
Day 1
Mon, Feb 7
12noon, Indoor Track at JCU
Ran 30 minutes at about 85%
Distance - 2.88 miles
I stayed up a little later to watch the Super Bowl last night, so my 5am workout was not happening. Lunch was it. I walked two laps first and then started running. I used my iPod so I could track the time better and use some music. After 20 minutes in, my right foot began going numb, like when your arm falls asleep, ya know? It was the weirdest thing. I kept going and pushed through until I got to 30 minutes, but it just got worse. My whole foot felt that way. The good news is when I ended my run and started walking it went away and I didn't have any pain at all. It was just the numbness. I asked some other ladies in the locker room if they had experienced it and I got mixed feedback. Most said, yes, and that it was due to tight laces. I don't think that is my problem, however. Weird. I think I'll google this tonight to try and learn more...
Mon, Feb 7
12noon, Indoor Track at JCU
Ran 30 minutes at about 85%
Distance - 2.88 miles
I stayed up a little later to watch the Super Bowl last night, so my 5am workout was not happening. Lunch was it. I walked two laps first and then started running. I used my iPod so I could track the time better and use some music. After 20 minutes in, my right foot began going numb, like when your arm falls asleep, ya know? It was the weirdest thing. I kept going and pushed through until I got to 30 minutes, but it just got worse. My whole foot felt that way. The good news is when I ended my run and started walking it went away and I didn't have any pain at all. It was just the numbness. I asked some other ladies in the locker room if they had experienced it and I got mixed feedback. Most said, yes, and that it was due to tight laces. I don't think that is my problem, however. Weird. I think I'll google this tonight to try and learn more...
Introduction
Okay, so this category of blog entries is dedicated to tracking my training for the 1/2 Marathon in Cleveland on May 15, 2011!! This will be my first and I'm pretty excited, scared, etc. So, I decided that one thing I can do to keep myself on track and accountable is to blog about my training. Who knows, it could turn into another book! If nothing else it will at least be interesting to me to read over this summer and, hopefully see how far I've come!! I will usually include the day, time, and type of workout and a little bit about the experience. That might be it, or there might be more it just depends!! I have printed out a 14-week beginner training program and day one is today!! Here we go...
Saturday, February 5, 2011
What you do in private, you wear in public!
Ha, ha! I just love this saying that I heard this morning at Weight Watchers. We talked a lot about sayings and mantras to use as anchors this morning and this one in particular really hit home with me. I gained again at the scale this week and I was defeated and started blaming the new program again in my mind. That damn new program. What the hell - I'm eating all this friggin' fruit - what am I doing wrong?! I mean, if you look at my 3-month journal, it looks like everything is great - on paper. But if I really think about it and get honest with myself I have snacked extra and not tracked it. For some reason I still have not completely learned the lesson that this saying alludes to - MY BODY IS RECORDING EVERYTHING I EAT EVEN IF I DON'T WRITE IT DOWN!! It is so logical, but for some reason in the moment I choose to forget this. Or perhaps I'm eating for a different reason than hunger - in response to some feeling I don't want to feel. So maybe to combat this I need to actually feel the feeling and just move on. Give myself the 10 minutes to feel it and then deal with it. Why is that so hard to do sometimes?! I guess I'm a slow learner, but thank God there isn't a grade for all of this. There is no Weight Watcher's police that is going to arrest me because I still haven't learned some of the basics. I think it is really just a re-learning that needs to happen periodically. I rest on my laurels (or my butt, if you will) and get lax and that is when those bad habits start to creep back in. But, I don't have to be perfect - far from it. This is still a journey - and always will be. And boy is this about so much more than weight loss!!! I have to share some words of wisdom and perspective that Zachary, my 9-year-old said to me this morning after I came home and shared that I was up again at the scale. He said, "Mommy, its okay, because this body (and he pointed to me) is so much better than the way it used to be!" Out of the mouths of babes I tell you. Yes, it is, Zach...yes, it is!
Friday, February 4, 2011
Dessert for Breakfast?
So, I know I've blogged about oatmeal before, but I just had to share again. I mean, this is heaven in a bowl. The last time I praised this wonderful bowl of warm goodness I was referring to the old fashioned Quaker oats, which are fantastic themselves. I mean, I have never met a hot cereal I did not like - well, except for Cream of Wheat - yuck. However, then I met steel cut oats. OMG. To die for. I make them the long way - in a pot on the stove for 30 long and lonely minutes, but oh, so worth it! I have read that you can also do them in a crockpot overnight, but I have to admit I'm a skeptic about the overnight crockpot thing. So, I wait my 30 long and lonely minutes until my whole grain goodness is sufficiently wonderful. I then dole it out in 4 1/2 cup-ish portions - one for now and three for later in the week. I have to say I actually prefer it after it has been in the fridge a couple of days. It is chewy, thick and just nummy. Then on a morning like today I take it out, heat it up for 1 minute in the microwave. Stir. Add blueberries - a bunch and heat again for about 20 seconds. Stir. Consume with joy. Today I almost felt guilty eating it for breakfast. Is this blueberry pie?? Nope, just my old oatmeal. SO good. So, did I convince any non-warm-cereal-eaters out there yet? Hey, don't take my word for it. Pick up a container at Trader Joe's or Heinen's this weekend. Oh, and skip the blueberry pie at the bakery!
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Not sitting down!
Thursday, Feb 3
5:30am - 6:30am
Bootcamp at Lifecenter
Today was great! It had been a week since the last bootcamp since we didn't have it on Tuesday and it felt good to get back into it. We concentrated on arms and backs again today with one circuit across the gym; a good overall workout.
One weird thing I noticed today was my lack of sitting between circuits. We will get like a 30 second water break and the other two girls sit down on the steps, take a break and drink their water. I never do that - I just grab a quick drink and I'm ready to get back at it. This is how it is in other group exercise classes too, like the killer Bosu class so I guess I'm just used to it. You just grab a drink and jump back in! One of them even commented on it today and said, "man, Lisa never takes a break!" Now, it is not like I'm trying to be some show-off or martyr about this. And to be honest, part of me thinks that if I sit down I won't want to get back up! But, I mean, these exercises are not THAT strenuous that I NEED to actually sit down for 30 seconds. Plus I just like to keep going - once that flow is going, heart rate is up and I'm sweating, I just like to push forward. Sitting down would be like a buzz kill, for me I guess. I also am that person that after running a 5K I need to walk for a minute with my bottle of water before talking or interacting with anyone at all. I'm always surprised to see someone sit right down after a running or bend over with their hands on their knees. Walk it off, for God's sake! But, hey, we are all different and that is great. No, if you will excuse me I need to take a break from writing - carpel tunnel, you know.
5:30am - 6:30am
Bootcamp at Lifecenter
Today was great! It had been a week since the last bootcamp since we didn't have it on Tuesday and it felt good to get back into it. We concentrated on arms and backs again today with one circuit across the gym; a good overall workout.
One weird thing I noticed today was my lack of sitting between circuits. We will get like a 30 second water break and the other two girls sit down on the steps, take a break and drink their water. I never do that - I just grab a quick drink and I'm ready to get back at it. This is how it is in other group exercise classes too, like the killer Bosu class so I guess I'm just used to it. You just grab a drink and jump back in! One of them even commented on it today and said, "man, Lisa never takes a break!" Now, it is not like I'm trying to be some show-off or martyr about this. And to be honest, part of me thinks that if I sit down I won't want to get back up! But, I mean, these exercises are not THAT strenuous that I NEED to actually sit down for 30 seconds. Plus I just like to keep going - once that flow is going, heart rate is up and I'm sweating, I just like to push forward. Sitting down would be like a buzz kill, for me I guess. I also am that person that after running a 5K I need to walk for a minute with my bottle of water before talking or interacting with anyone at all. I'm always surprised to see someone sit right down after a running or bend over with their hands on their knees. Walk it off, for God's sake! But, hey, we are all different and that is great. No, if you will excuse me I need to take a break from writing - carpel tunnel, you know.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Eat Dead & Dying Things
Okay, a little gross, I admit. But I had this realization at lunch today that a really good rule of thumb in terms of eating healthy is to eat things that are dying, used to be alive and/or will eventually go bad. Morbid and a bit yucky to think about I admit, but think about it. All the good stuff, the filling foods, the super foods, whatever you want to call it this week - all of that stuff has a shelf life that is not too long. I mean I have heard people joke about how they can't seem to keep vegetables in the fridge, but that's just it - they aren't meant to be "kept" there, but eaten! Today for lunch I made a big salad from assorted veggies, some artizan lettuces and I threw some turkey on for protein. I also had a cup of lentil soup, from a can - Progresso. Yes, technically it is processed, but it is still good protein!! But I digress.. So, here is the exception - beans! Beans can be shelved for awhile, but I'm not sure how long?? For the most part this rule still holds true...peaches, yes-they go bad; twinkies -not so much; salmon - was once alive; cookies - not so much. See how that works?? Am I a genius or what??!! Don't answer that. Just grab some milk...but check the date first!!!!
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Oh, the Distractions...
Tuesday, Feb 1
12noon - over lunch (my original plan was to get up and run at 5:30am, but that didn't pan out today so lunch was it!)
The inside track at JCU (uggh)
30 minute run - pretty good and easy.
Commentary: I was laughing at the "Insanity" bootcamp-esque class in the gym below that was a video of a military dude. It looked intense and I totally wanted to do it, but today was my running day. But I was cracking up at the sound because the facilitator was breathing VERY hard and right in the microphone. Just too funny - you had to be there.
12noon - over lunch (my original plan was to get up and run at 5:30am, but that didn't pan out today so lunch was it!)
The inside track at JCU (uggh)
30 minute run - pretty good and easy.
Commentary: I was laughing at the "Insanity" bootcamp-esque class in the gym below that was a video of a military dude. It looked intense and I totally wanted to do it, but today was my running day. But I was cracking up at the sound because the facilitator was breathing VERY hard and right in the microphone. Just too funny - you had to be there.
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