This morning at around 3:45am, I found myself crying. Just crying. My youngest, Parker, has been waking up at 4:45am for the day and with my husband traveling for work, that means I, too, have been waking up at 4:45am for the day.. everyday. But this morning, I don't know if it was sheer exhaustion or the utter disbelief that my son could be taking one more precious hour out of my "hopeful" 6 hours I get a night, but I broke down a bit. I'm not normally a crier, but today I did. Clearly, it's time to remind myself of something important. Something that everyone could use of some reminding, and especially mothers: I need to take care of myself.
It's often believed that as a parent taking care of yourself, or even putting yourself first in some instances, is selfish. Here is the problem with that thinking: if I am not 100%, heck, if I'm not even 60%, how in the world can I expect to give my children 100%? During my Body Back training, Farel Hruska used a great example that has stuck in my mind. Every time we fly we are told that in case of emergency, put our own oxygen masks on first before we help others. If we aren't taking care of ourselves, we can't fully take care of others.
For some, this may come in the form of eating the right things that will fuel your body and give you the energy to attack your day. For others, it could be the need to get out of the house and get moving to give yourself a dose of happy endorphins and beat the feeling of lethargy. But for me, I need to remember to rest. And, for now, that might even mean getting in bed at 9pm. Maybe even try to nap (already my body is asking what a nap is)! Whatever way, shape or form, I need rest.
Today I am luckily. After an hour or so, Parker fell back asleep and my next "alarm clock" (aka the three year old) didn't wake me up until 6:15. Also, my husband gets back today and will help relieve some of the nightly duties and early morning wake-ups. I know I will catch a break soon, but that shouldn't leave the lesson unlearned. In short, I have to remember to take care of me.
Random side note: It's always times like these that I think of friends, acquaintances or complete strangers who are a single parent, have partners in the military, or loved ones who are gone for far longer stretches than a week here or there. I just want to say, YOU ARE ALL AMAZING! I can't imagine doing what you are doing every day.
Showing posts with label Tactics. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tactics. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Sunday, November 10, 2013
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Moving and Grooving
Five months after Parker I can say I'm feeling like myself again. I don't really feel postpartum anymore and I'm riding the awesome motivation train that comes from 46 weeks of restricted activity. As I've noticed in the past, the more I work out the more I want to workout more. It's been great getting out to Stroller Strides with the boys or giving myself a mommy break by going on a run or going to yoga.
As technologically savvy as I am (or think I am, anyways), there is still something about writing down my workouts by hand on my workout log. It's like giving myself a little pat on the back. As you can see below, I don't go into depth. But by writing my general workout it's like I'm checking off that day - done and done. Here is how December is shaping up so far (coloring done by the striving, young artist, Landon):
One thing that I've noticed is that I am working out more days a week than I ever have. Before I was content with working out MOST days of the week... And I do still follow that theory. But now it seems that I get antsy when a day has passed without a workout. One day of rest seems to be working for this girl. But believe me, if I need more, I'll take it.
One way that I think I'm having such success with getting in my workouts (I am a mother of two) is scheduling. I can tell you right now that Thursdays I have indoor soccer, Saturday I do a Yoga 2 class, and Sunday I get my long run in for my half marathon training (other parts of the year, I have outdoor soccer on Sundays). By having these things "scheduled" my husband knows he has the kids for an hour or so and I already have three workout days checked off my week. My other days are a little less scheduled but generally Mondays and Wednesdays are allotted for Stroller Strides and Tuesdays I get another day of running in.
As I said, I'm feeling good. Running and yoga have been a great "mental break" from the demands of being home with the kids all day and I really could never give up my love of soccer.
I hope everyone has a great, safe and healthy holiday. We all know it's hard to not partake in the many treats.. so try and focus on getting moving :)
As technologically savvy as I am (or think I am, anyways), there is still something about writing down my workouts by hand on my workout log. It's like giving myself a little pat on the back. As you can see below, I don't go into depth. But by writing my general workout it's like I'm checking off that day - done and done. Here is how December is shaping up so far (coloring done by the striving, young artist, Landon):
One thing that I've noticed is that I am working out more days a week than I ever have. Before I was content with working out MOST days of the week... And I do still follow that theory. But now it seems that I get antsy when a day has passed without a workout. One day of rest seems to be working for this girl. But believe me, if I need more, I'll take it.
One way that I think I'm having such success with getting in my workouts (I am a mother of two) is scheduling. I can tell you right now that Thursdays I have indoor soccer, Saturday I do a Yoga 2 class, and Sunday I get my long run in for my half marathon training (other parts of the year, I have outdoor soccer on Sundays). By having these things "scheduled" my husband knows he has the kids for an hour or so and I already have three workout days checked off my week. My other days are a little less scheduled but generally Mondays and Wednesdays are allotted for Stroller Strides and Tuesdays I get another day of running in.
As I said, I'm feeling good. Running and yoga have been a great "mental break" from the demands of being home with the kids all day and I really could never give up my love of soccer.
I hope everyone has a great, safe and healthy holiday. We all know it's hard to not partake in the many treats.. so try and focus on getting moving :)
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
"Diet is a Four-Letter Word"
- McKenzie Hall, RD
Recently I went to the 2012 National Stroller Strides Conference where I was introduced to amazing people doing great things in health and fitness. It was so motivational and influential, I want to share some of the information I learned.
One of the speakers I listened to was McKenzie Hall a Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Counselor. What I liked about Ms. Hall was that I really felt like everything she said was exactly how I felt about, and approached nutrition (said with more eloquence, of course). It was a nice feeling, and gave me a sense of confidence that there was a method to my madness.
While she had many things to say, what I wanted to share about today was her idea about "diets." As the title of this blog alludes (words from Hall, herself), diets are not the way to approach or improve one's health. Some of you may be rolling your eyes right about now. Like, "Yeah, yeah, we've heard it before. Life changes.. blah, blah, bleh." But here's the thing... I totally agree.
In the past I tried restricting things I ate - no desserts, little to no carbs, and don't even think about eating that cheesy pizza you want so bad. But it NEVER worked. As soon as I told myself I couldn't eat something was the moment that thing became number one on my list of things I WANTED to eat. I remember about 6 years ago when I had a go at South Beach and "couldn't" eat sweets. I'm not even a sweets person, but because I couldn't have it, all I wanted was sugar. I remember the need became so much that I bought sugar-free candy and tore into the bag on the way out of the store. It didn't take more than a candy or two for me to realize that obviously this "diet" was not something I could keep up and am happy to say I chucked the candy and the diet, then and there.
As Hall says, "Diets set you up for failure." Instead she says she allows all foods in moderation. She even went so far to say that if you have to have a cupcake, eat that cupcake and get on with your day. Anyone who knows me knows that I will never miss out on a food I really want. One day it may be a quesadilla, another day it may be might be some delicious frozen yogurt from the amazing Bogurt Yogurt, but I eat it and get on with my day. As I like to say, I eat very healthy MOST of the time.
Along with these insights she gave an informal list of why diets don't work and I wanted to share. So, here they are. According to Hall (along with my commentary), "diets" are linked to:
I will be doing more posts on things discussed at the conference, including more from McKenzie Hall, RD, but if you would like to see more from her, you can check her out on NourishRDs.com
Recently I went to the 2012 National Stroller Strides Conference where I was introduced to amazing people doing great things in health and fitness. It was so motivational and influential, I want to share some of the information I learned.
One of the speakers I listened to was McKenzie Hall a Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Counselor. What I liked about Ms. Hall was that I really felt like everything she said was exactly how I felt about, and approached nutrition (said with more eloquence, of course). It was a nice feeling, and gave me a sense of confidence that there was a method to my madness.
While she had many things to say, what I wanted to share about today was her idea about "diets." As the title of this blog alludes (words from Hall, herself), diets are not the way to approach or improve one's health. Some of you may be rolling your eyes right about now. Like, "Yeah, yeah, we've heard it before. Life changes.. blah, blah, bleh." But here's the thing... I totally agree.
In the past I tried restricting things I ate - no desserts, little to no carbs, and don't even think about eating that cheesy pizza you want so bad. But it NEVER worked. As soon as I told myself I couldn't eat something was the moment that thing became number one on my list of things I WANTED to eat. I remember about 6 years ago when I had a go at South Beach and "couldn't" eat sweets. I'm not even a sweets person, but because I couldn't have it, all I wanted was sugar. I remember the need became so much that I bought sugar-free candy and tore into the bag on the way out of the store. It didn't take more than a candy or two for me to realize that obviously this "diet" was not something I could keep up and am happy to say I chucked the candy and the diet, then and there.
As Hall says, "Diets set you up for failure." Instead she says she allows all foods in moderation. She even went so far to say that if you have to have a cupcake, eat that cupcake and get on with your day. Anyone who knows me knows that I will never miss out on a food I really want. One day it may be a quesadilla, another day it may be might be some delicious frozen yogurt from the amazing Bogurt Yogurt, but I eat it and get on with my day. As I like to say, I eat very healthy MOST of the time.
Along with these insights she gave an informal list of why diets don't work and I wanted to share. So, here they are. According to Hall (along with my commentary), "diets" are linked to:
- disordered eating behaviors - maybe we've all seen this one
- low energy - yup
- suppressed immunity - Why, you ask? Because when following a diet you are most likely restricting some foods. Restricting foods means restricting nutrients, and that ain't coo'.
- reduced self esteem - "I need to lose this weight because I am a big ol' fat pig, and no one can stand the sight of me." I don't know if that's a direct quote, but I'm sure old Nikki has said that somewhere down the line.
- Irritability - Sooooooooo true
- Social Isolation - Hall made a good point here that eating is such a cultural thing. Removing yourself from social outings because of food isn't healthy. Or, for me, even worse, you're missing out.
- Depression
- Increased Risk for Obesity - Sad, really.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
An Inside Job
I'm so lucky to have married someone who, like me, wants to live a healthy lifestyle. Recently, Nate and I ran the Surf City 5k on 4th of July. I asked Nate to help me keep a challenging pace and he was game. With Nate's help I got a PR of 23:43.
I had to share this photo. This is the two of us running in together. As we were getting closer to the finish line I told Nate I was going to sprint it in... I think he had slightly underestimated my speed ;)
I love that one of my biggest supporters of a healthier me is my husband. It makes everything easier when support is an "inside job."
I had to share this photo. This is the two of us running in together. As we were getting closer to the finish line I told Nate I was going to sprint it in... I think he had slightly underestimated my speed ;)
I love that one of my biggest supporters of a healthier me is my husband. It makes everything easier when support is an "inside job."
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Shocking the System
I was searching for yoga images when I came across this gem. It's simply titled "Yoga Grandma." At first I laughed... come on, it's a little shocking to see. But then I was really impressed. If I can do this at her age, I'll be doing pretty good, I think.
Last night I took a yoga class taught by our very talented friend, Anga. I was feeling as though my body was needing a break from my every day work outs and needing something different; a little TLC, if you will. Yoga has always been something I've enjoyed, there is absolutely nothing like it. Mentally it transports you to another place, and physically it does so much good for your body, I can't even list it all. Sadly, it had been about a year and a half since the last time I "practiced" in a studio (check out me using the yogi lingo!!).
Now, I'm not saying yoga is for everyone, but I truly believe you have to shock your system, once in awhile. Our bodies are very adaptive. If we do the same things over and over, it's going to get used to it. When our bodies become used to something, our muscles and progress hit somewhat of a plateau.
That's why I try very hard to keep my workout routine, far from that - a routine. We need to spice things up and continue to challenge ourselves by trying new things. I'm not saying runners should stop running, or swimmers stop swimming. I'm just saying that running is great, but maybe try a kickboxing class once in awhile to hit that core and upper body you may be lacking.
Also, change is fun! The last thing we want is for exercise to feel boring, mundane, or "same ol'." After last night I realize that a year and a half was far too long of a break from yoga. I'm looking forward to adding in a class or two every couple of weeks.. I mean, why not, really?
One more for the road. The same "Grandma" doing crow pose. Pretty inspiring.
Images are product of Barcoft Media
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Leftovers Advocate!
Truth be told, I used to HATE leftovers. Boy was I ignorant! Luckily, I am now older and wiser (well, at least about leftovers, anyway). Here is the glory of leftovers:
- They are ready to eat. I love heating up a full, balanced meal in 2 mins or less.
- It cuts down on your having to prepare one more healthy meal. You make one deliciously healthy dinner and you don't have to think about your next two lunches.
- When I have something healthy ready to eat, my hunger doesn't drive me to make poor eating decisions.
- It's a money-saver! Less money spent on food, means more money to spend on other things (Can you say iPad 2?!!)
- It's a time-saver! This kind of goes with the first bullet, but I can't tell you how nice it is being a mommy and being able to just pop something in the microwave. Leaves time for chasing around a rolling baby who likes to play with anything that he shouldn't :)
So, what can I say? I am a full-blown leftovers advocate. I don't see a downside to leftovers, at all. In general, they just make being healthy easy. And when healthy options are available and easy, we are more like to choose them :) Happy eating!
- They are ready to eat. I love heating up a full, balanced meal in 2 mins or less.
- It cuts down on your having to prepare one more healthy meal. You make one deliciously healthy dinner and you don't have to think about your next two lunches.
- When I have something healthy ready to eat, my hunger doesn't drive me to make poor eating decisions.
- It's a money-saver! Less money spent on food, means more money to spend on other things (Can you say iPad 2?!!)
- It's a time-saver! This kind of goes with the first bullet, but I can't tell you how nice it is being a mommy and being able to just pop something in the microwave. Leaves time for chasing around a rolling baby who likes to play with anything that he shouldn't :)
So, what can I say? I am a full-blown leftovers advocate. I don't see a downside to leftovers, at all. In general, they just make being healthy easy. And when healthy options are available and easy, we are more like to choose them :) Happy eating!
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
In the Spirit of New Year's Resolutions
Although, I'm not big on making New Year's resolutions, I do always go into the new year with some fresh hopes. The number one New Year's resolution people seem to make is to lose weight. Personally, my goal is to continue cooking at home. Although, I'm not saying I want to "lose weight," I do believe cooking at home is indirectly resolving for a healthy lifestyle.In the spirit of the number one resolution, I thought I would share an article I found yesterday. The article is titled "Dr. Oz's Top 5 Mistakes Dieters Make." I wouldn't consider myself a fan of Dr. Oz, nor have I seen his show, but these five things are definitely 5 rules that I live by... or, at least, try to avoid.
To summarize the list, here are the "Top 5 Mistakes Dieters Make":
1) You crash diet - I've always been against crash dieting. Becoming healthy is all about lifestyle changes. Obviously, crash diets are not made to be followed forever. As soon as you stop the diet all the weight comes back, and usually more.
2) You skip breakfast - I understand that people do this because they "aren't hungry" or they think, hey, I'm cutting calories, but research doesn't lie. So get up, have some breakfast and get that metabolism working!
3) You drink extra calories - Beware of those high-calorie beverages! I'm talking to you, Starbuck goers! If you are a coffee drinker, like myself, opt for plain coffee or (my new favorite) an Americano. Those Peppermint Mochas with whip add a lot of calories to your day. And the thing about drinking calories is that they don't make you full, like eating them would.
4) You don't snack - It's all about healthy snacking. Putting your body into starvation mode makes your inhibitions go out the window, prompting you to make poorer choices later. Keep healthy snacks near you or in your car (my glove compartment often holds my snacks safely).
5) You don't drink enough water - I discuss this one a lot. I have to really work hard at this one. For some reason, my brain will just go hours without asking for water, but I know that drinking more water helps me to feel better. And research shows, those who drink more water, eat less. Plan and simple.
A very interesting point brought up in the article is a safe and healthy way to lose weight. Dr. Oz suggests tracking what you eat in a food diary and then figuring out a way to cut out just 100 calories daily. Think about it, 100 calories is nothing. Your body won't even register that you are on a diet! I'm sure I could do this easily with just the slightest change to my portions. 100 calories seems so doable, right?!
I'm sure I've done a fantastic job of summarizing this article ;)..... but if you'd like to read it for yourself, click HERE
Oh, and in case you are wondering, 4 more pounds to go!
Monday, March 1, 2010
Eating, Drinking, and Sleeping for Two
I'm sorry for the impromptu hiatus, but to be honest, I wasn't sure how to explain my health decisions without spoiling my big news. The truth is that I'm pregnant. I'm 13 weeks, which means Saturday I will be out of the dreaded 1st trimester. Nate and I are as happy as could be and can't wait for our little one.
What does this mean for me and my health? Well, there have been a couple of big changes in my eating and working out. The biggest changes in my work outs is that I am no longer running and keep any weight training light. Although some say running is okay during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, I've chosen to omit it due to the extremely high heart rate I get while running. Basically, when I'm running at a comfortable pace, able to talk even, my heart rate is high to the point where it would be dangerous for some people. With this in mind, I thought Why take the risk? and have been walking and riding my bike, instead. It's been nice to slow down the pace of my working out... BUT I know that once I have "peanut" I'll be signing up for the next half marathon :)
As for my eating, I feel like I am eating a TON. I get hungry more frequently and hunger pains come on fast and furious. I think because of the intense hunger (and probably prego cravings) I have eaten a couple things, I wouldn't normally consider. For example, I've had cheeseburgers a couple of times and anything cheesy and of the Mexican variety is often on my mind. Fortunately, I have by no means let myself go. I have only gained 2-4 pounds, which is good for first trimester.
Some positive changes I have made include trying to eat A LOT more vegetables. Broccoli is a natural superfood and I love carrots and celery, so I create my own little veggie tray for snacking. I've found that cutting up a red bell pepper and taking it as a snack or part of my lunch is delicious (and high in Vitamin C). Also, I am avoiding nitrate-high foods like bacon, peperoni, cold cuts, and sausage. I never ate too much of these things before, but I am choosing to completely skip them now (bye, bye peperoni pizza and antipasto salad!). Finally, I am trying to not have too much soda or artificial sweetners. My doctor has given the okay to sucralose and aspartame, but I am happy to avoid them if I can. As a soda lover, I find that a great substitute for me right now is delicious Izze:
Izze's are 70% real fruit juice and 30% sparkling water . I love, love, love grapefruit and pomegranate. They are a great when I want something with a little natural pick-me-up (I'm not drinking any caffeine). Oh, also, I've found that the cans are cheaper than the bottles. So instead of buying the bottled Izzes in the soda aisle, head to the juice aisle, you will find the canned ones next to the Kern's.... And, now, I just talked myself into having one. It's pomegranate :)
Since being pregnant, I am drinking A LOT more water. Drinking more water is necessary when pregnant, but also just helps you feel better. You can start feeling sick if you haven't had enough water.
Finally, my most glorious accomplishment since being prego: sleep. I have never been much of a sleeper, but boy do I make time for it now! Early on, I was taking 2 hour naps, which is completely unheard of for me. Now that I am further along, I can make it through the day without a nap, but am often in bed around 9pm. The bottom line is that I am allowing myself to listen to my body. If I'm tired, I sleep. That's it.
What I am consciously aware of is that what goes in my mouth is shared by another. My body has a current tenant so I need to be sure that it's a Hilton, not some two-star hotel. And, although most of you out there are not pregnant, these changes are ones that benefit all.
Long post this time! Phew! I will try to post soon. If my dinner of Healthy Spicy Shrimp Pasta comes out delicious tonight, maybe I will pass on the recipe :)
What does this mean for me and my health? Well, there have been a couple of big changes in my eating and working out. The biggest changes in my work outs is that I am no longer running and keep any weight training light. Although some say running is okay during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, I've chosen to omit it due to the extremely high heart rate I get while running. Basically, when I'm running at a comfortable pace, able to talk even, my heart rate is high to the point where it would be dangerous for some people. With this in mind, I thought Why take the risk? and have been walking and riding my bike, instead. It's been nice to slow down the pace of my working out... BUT I know that once I have "peanut" I'll be signing up for the next half marathon :)
As for my eating, I feel like I am eating a TON. I get hungry more frequently and hunger pains come on fast and furious. I think because of the intense hunger (and probably prego cravings) I have eaten a couple things, I wouldn't normally consider. For example, I've had cheeseburgers a couple of times and anything cheesy and of the Mexican variety is often on my mind. Fortunately, I have by no means let myself go. I have only gained 2-4 pounds, which is good for first trimester.
Some positive changes I have made include trying to eat A LOT more vegetables. Broccoli is a natural superfood and I love carrots and celery, so I create my own little veggie tray for snacking. I've found that cutting up a red bell pepper and taking it as a snack or part of my lunch is delicious (and high in Vitamin C). Also, I am avoiding nitrate-high foods like bacon, peperoni, cold cuts, and sausage. I never ate too much of these things before, but I am choosing to completely skip them now (bye, bye peperoni pizza and antipasto salad!). Finally, I am trying to not have too much soda or artificial sweetners. My doctor has given the okay to sucralose and aspartame, but I am happy to avoid them if I can. As a soda lover, I find that a great substitute for me right now is delicious Izze:
Izze's are 70% real fruit juice and 30% sparkling water . I love, love, love grapefruit and pomegranate. They are a great when I want something with a little natural pick-me-up (I'm not drinking any caffeine). Oh, also, I've found that the cans are cheaper than the bottles. So instead of buying the bottled Izzes in the soda aisle, head to the juice aisle, you will find the canned ones next to the Kern's.... And, now, I just talked myself into having one. It's pomegranate :)
Since being pregnant, I am drinking A LOT more water. Drinking more water is necessary when pregnant, but also just helps you feel better. You can start feeling sick if you haven't had enough water.
Finally, my most glorious accomplishment since being prego: sleep. I have never been much of a sleeper, but boy do I make time for it now! Early on, I was taking 2 hour naps, which is completely unheard of for me. Now that I am further along, I can make it through the day without a nap, but am often in bed around 9pm. The bottom line is that I am allowing myself to listen to my body. If I'm tired, I sleep. That's it.
What I am consciously aware of is that what goes in my mouth is shared by another. My body has a current tenant so I need to be sure that it's a Hilton, not some two-star hotel. And, although most of you out there are not pregnant, these changes are ones that benefit all.
Long post this time! Phew! I will try to post soon. If my dinner of Healthy Spicy Shrimp Pasta comes out delicious tonight, maybe I will pass on the recipe :)
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Resolving to be Healthy
I'm not the type to make resolutions. However, if there was a resolution for me this year it would be to be the healthiest person I can be. This means making almost all meals at home, it means exercising, and it means allowing myself time to rest. Making my meals is somewhat challenging because it feels time-consuming, but really making our dinners is something that I enjoy. As I've said before, the more I cook, the more I love it. I love the control you have when choosing what ingredients you will be consuming. I'm always suspicious of those too good to be true "low-fat" options in restaurants.
As for exercise, I am trying to stay consistent with getting my body moving at least four days a week. For me, personally, this seems like the easiest goal to accomplish. It helps to have a work out partner (Nate), and a frequent walking buddy (Turi). I recommend that anyone who needs help with consistency finds a partner right for them.
Lastly, rest. This year I am all about allowing myself time to relax and rest when I need it. Never in my life have a been a person who requires naps. I used to feel like napping was a waste of time; sleeping happens at night. Fortunately, I don't believe this anymore. Our bodies need time to recoup. More rest means fighting off more disease and destressing. Two things that will be important to me this year.
All in all, I think 2010 will be a great, healthy year for me.
As for exercise, I am trying to stay consistent with getting my body moving at least four days a week. For me, personally, this seems like the easiest goal to accomplish. It helps to have a work out partner (Nate), and a frequent walking buddy (Turi). I recommend that anyone who needs help with consistency finds a partner right for them.
Lastly, rest. This year I am all about allowing myself time to relax and rest when I need it. Never in my life have a been a person who requires naps. I used to feel like napping was a waste of time; sleeping happens at night. Fortunately, I don't believe this anymore. Our bodies need time to recoup. More rest means fighting off more disease and destressing. Two things that will be important to me this year.
All in all, I think 2010 will be a great, healthy year for me.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
I Know What You're Thinking..
Where have I been? Well, to be honest, I am so busy I feel like my days/weeks/months are FLYING by. In this incredibly busy time I've come to realize a few things:
1) Thank goodness for organized sports - I play outdoor soccer every Sunday and sub on a Thursday night indoor team. If it wasn't for organized sports, I'm not sure I would be getting in enough exercise during this busy time in my life. With organized sports you have to schedule the workouts, making it more likely that you will do them.
2) It's all about balance - As busy as I am now, it's hard to get even three workouts in a week. Therefore, if I'm not getting it done in the gym, I need to get it done on my plate. It's all about balance. I know that I need to watch what I eat even more than usual when I am not burning up calories in the gym.
3) Sleep and water, water and sleep - When you are busy, stress levels are high and your body is working overtime. Right now I am really trying to keep healthy with as much sleep as possible and keeping hydrated with lots of water. Sleep and water aren't just healthy for your body, either; the two contribute to mental health, as well. So drink up and catch some Z's!
1) Thank goodness for organized sports - I play outdoor soccer every Sunday and sub on a Thursday night indoor team. If it wasn't for organized sports, I'm not sure I would be getting in enough exercise during this busy time in my life. With organized sports you have to schedule the workouts, making it more likely that you will do them.
2) It's all about balance - As busy as I am now, it's hard to get even three workouts in a week. Therefore, if I'm not getting it done in the gym, I need to get it done on my plate. It's all about balance. I know that I need to watch what I eat even more than usual when I am not burning up calories in the gym.
3) Sleep and water, water and sleep - When you are busy, stress levels are high and your body is working overtime. Right now I am really trying to keep healthy with as much sleep as possible and keeping hydrated with lots of water. Sleep and water aren't just healthy for your body, either; the two contribute to mental health, as well. So drink up and catch some Z's!
Friday, August 21, 2009
Jot Down Your Workouts
One tactic I like to use to stay healthy and keep on track is writing my work outs on a calendar. This way I have a record of what I've done to both be aware if I've slacked off a bit, and also to see what I've accomplished (being proud of your work is great motivation). Personally, I use my iCal, but any calendar, journal, etc. will work. Here is what my month is looking like so far.
As you can see, my second week of August was a little lax (I was on a ranch in the mountains, nearest gym was at least an hour away), but after that I picked it up and did a 4 day work out week.
This isn't something that takes a lot of time to do. Just jot a quick note and move on with your day. This little thing has been a great motivator for me. I love seeing what I've accomplished, and believe me, when you're not feeling like you want to hit the gym, but notice you've only been once in the past week, you will get your butt to the gym.
So, try it out! I don't include my walks with my dog, but you may want to. It's your tracking system, do what you want with it!
As you can see, my second week of August was a little lax (I was on a ranch in the mountains, nearest gym was at least an hour away), but after that I picked it up and did a 4 day work out week.
This isn't something that takes a lot of time to do. Just jot a quick note and move on with your day. This little thing has been a great motivator for me. I love seeing what I've accomplished, and believe me, when you're not feeling like you want to hit the gym, but notice you've only been once in the past week, you will get your butt to the gym.
So, try it out! I don't include my walks with my dog, but you may want to. It's your tracking system, do what you want with it!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Get Up and Do It
When it comes to making sure you complete your work outs I've got one thing to say, "Get up and do it." By getting up in the morning and doing your work first thing, you will have less excuses and be more likely to get your exercise in for the day.
I've read this in many fitness magazines, but it really became apparent to me when I started training for half marathons. While training for these races, it's not the weekend long runs that are hardest to complete (actually, they are probably the easiest because you have a week to mentally prepare for them). The hard runs are in fact the shorter, middle of the week runs. The shorter runs are just as, if not more important than your long runs, but the motivation to do them can be lacking. This is probably because it's the middle of the week and we are usually our busiest. So to that, I repeat, "Get up and do it." Get your work outs done and move on with your rest of your day. You will feel refreshed and won't have to think of that pesky 4 mile run you need to do later.
I've read this in many fitness magazines, but it really became apparent to me when I started training for half marathons. While training for these races, it's not the weekend long runs that are hardest to complete (actually, they are probably the easiest because you have a week to mentally prepare for them). The hard runs are in fact the shorter, middle of the week runs. The shorter runs are just as, if not more important than your long runs, but the motivation to do them can be lacking. This is probably because it's the middle of the week and we are usually our busiest. So to that, I repeat, "Get up and do it." Get your work outs done and move on with your rest of your day. You will feel refreshed and won't have to think of that pesky 4 mile run you need to do later.
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