I was contacted by Beachbody to give my opinion on some of their new fitness programs. I have heard of Beachbody before, they are the makers of P90X, Insanity, Turbofire and lots of other in-home workout programs. They also have a nutrition line that includes supplements and meal replacements. Michael and I have been wanting to try P90X, so I had fun getting to look at some of their other programs and getting to know some more about the company.
Here are the programs they asked me to look at and give my opinion on.
Beachbody Challenge: This seems pretty straight-forward. You sign up for the Challenge and use their fitness and nutrition plans to help meet your weight loss goals. They also offer support through online forums as well as one-on-one guidance. (It's unclear who is providing the guidance. Nutritionists? Personal trainers? Beachbody consultants?) You can choose one of Beachbody's 19 fitness programs (such as Brazil Butt Lift or P90x) to complete and once you submit your results you get a free* t-shirt and a chance to win cash and prizes! Pretty cool, I know money is a big motivator for a lot of people. You also will receive Shakeology nutrition shakes to drink during the challenge.
*I kind of think it's funny when companies say they are giving you something for free when you just gave them a nice chunk of change. I mean, you paid for that t-shirt, really. :)
P90X Certified Trainer: This program sounds pretty interesting. You can earn P90X certification to add to your personal training credentials. P90X is a well-recognized fitness program and if you already have personal training clients (or work for a gym), you could put together a P90X training group. You can also join their Pro Team to get marketing materials to grow your business with a focus on the P90X program.
Les Mills Pump Cross Training Deluxe: This fitness program combines cardio and strength training. There are three cardio workouts: a high intensity interval training workout, a sports training workout and a combat-style workout. There is also equipment included for both the cardio and weight training workouts. It sounds like a good program, the cardio workouts are 30-45 minutes each. I didn't find any info on how often you are supposed to do the workouts and if the weight training portion has a DVD or any instruction with it. It might be an add-on to their original Les Mills Pump.
Focus T25 Workout: I have heard of the Insanity workouts before and, as the name implies, it is an intense program. The T25 workout basically condenses the high-intensity cardio workout into 25 minutes. Seems like a pretty good idea, since one of the top excuses for not exercising is, "I don't have time." I think most people who want to get in shape can find 25 minutes in their day and if the intensity is high, you can definitely get results in 125 minutes a week. This product is not available yet, so there wasn't a whole lot of info available.
Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Dallas Marathon Training: Week 17 complete
I can't believe I made it through marathon training! Our last long run was my hardest yet, but I'll get to that.
Last week's workouts:
Sun 11/11: 7.5 mi bike ride
Mon 11/12: Power Vinyasa 4, 25 min
Tues 11/13: DRC pace run, 7.3 mi 1:20
Wed 11/14:3 2.3 mi easy
Thurs 11/15: Strength training
Fri 11/16: Yogaor rest Yoga for Runners podcast, 25 min
Sat 11/17:22 22.3 miles, 4:22
Saturday's run started out okay, I was nervous about the distance and my hip flexor was acting up again. But I had on brand new shoes (replacements of my beloved Brooks Glycerins) and got caught up in chatting with my group. We ran through some different neighborhoods though a lot of construction and uneven sidewalks. My pace leader tripped and fell as we left our second water stop (around 8 miles in). Then another team member tripped as we ran through Highland Park (in front of my alma mater Armstrong Elementary).
And finally, when we were in East Dallas, I tripped on an uneven sidewalk and did a complete wipeout. It happened so fast, I didn't even have time to put my hands down to stop my fall. I landed face first, scraping my chin and busting my upper lip. I sat up and could see the look of panic on my teammates' faces. I didn't feel any pain (yet) and asked, "Am I bleeding?" Everyone nodded yes and I put my hand to my face and realized I was *really* bleeding. I didn't worry too much because I know any head wounds bleed a lot even if they are not serious.
My teammates are amazing, several grabbed tissues, wet them with their water bottles and cleaned up my face. Big props to Michelle who literally pulled gravel and grass out of my face with no squeamishness. After several minutes, our pace leader Vicki calmly asked if I wanted to keep going or call someone to pick me up. She didn't put any pressure on me either way and said I could do whatever I felt comfortable with. By this time, I had stopped gushing blood and was able to stand up with no problem. I decided to keep going, promising my teammates that if I started to not feel well, I would stop.
Believe it or not, I felt much better once I started going again. I had a new determination to finish that run! My knee had also gotten scraped in the process and I bled on my new shoes. My teeth must have hit the inside of my upper lip because I could feel it swelling up. But my body felt good, I know that I'm actually lucky that I didn't twist an ankle or really hurt my knee. I talked to my nurse friend Victoria and she pointed out that our jaws are pretty tough, but our wrists are not. Even if I had put my hands out to catch myself, I could have easily broken a wrist.
Well, that's one way to finish out marathon training, with a bang you might say. Overall, I know I'm lucky, it could have been much worse. I should have been keeping a better eye on the sidewalk. I try to keep my head up when I run, but with uneven terrain like that, you have to be aware of every footfall and potential hazard. I don't know what I would have done without my teammates there to help, they are amazing.
I actually finished this run feeling way more confident about December 9th. If I can make it through 22 miles after literally falling on my face, I can make it through 26.2 no problem! I'll just have to keep reminding myself of that.
This week is Thanksgiving week and I'm not looking forward to trying to eat turkey and sweet potatoes with a bandage on my chin, but at least it will make a good story.
This week's plans:
Sun 11/18: Rest
Mon 11/19: Easy 30 min run
Tues 11/20: Yoga
Wed 11/21: Strength training
Thurs 11/22: 8 mile Turkey Trot
Fri 11/23: Rest or yoga
Sat 11/24: 12 miles easy
Last week's workouts:
Sun 11/11: 7.5 mi bike ride
Mon 11/12: Power Vinyasa 4, 25 min
Tues 11/13: DRC pace run, 7.3 mi 1:20
Wed 11/14:
Thurs 11/15: Strength training
Fri 11/16: Yoga
Sat 11/17:
Saturday's run started out okay, I was nervous about the distance and my hip flexor was acting up again. But I had on brand new shoes (replacements of my beloved Brooks Glycerins) and got caught up in chatting with my group. We ran through some different neighborhoods though a lot of construction and uneven sidewalks. My pace leader tripped and fell as we left our second water stop (around 8 miles in). Then another team member tripped as we ran through Highland Park (in front of my alma mater Armstrong Elementary).
And finally, when we were in East Dallas, I tripped on an uneven sidewalk and did a complete wipeout. It happened so fast, I didn't even have time to put my hands down to stop my fall. I landed face first, scraping my chin and busting my upper lip. I sat up and could see the look of panic on my teammates' faces. I didn't feel any pain (yet) and asked, "Am I bleeding?" Everyone nodded yes and I put my hand to my face and realized I was *really* bleeding. I didn't worry too much because I know any head wounds bleed a lot even if they are not serious.
My teammates are amazing, several grabbed tissues, wet them with their water bottles and cleaned up my face. Big props to Michelle who literally pulled gravel and grass out of my face with no squeamishness. After several minutes, our pace leader Vicki calmly asked if I wanted to keep going or call someone to pick me up. She didn't put any pressure on me either way and said I could do whatever I felt comfortable with. By this time, I had stopped gushing blood and was able to stand up with no problem. I decided to keep going, promising my teammates that if I started to not feel well, I would stop.
Believe it or not, I felt much better once I started going again. I had a new determination to finish that run! My knee had also gotten scraped in the process and I bled on my new shoes. My teeth must have hit the inside of my upper lip because I could feel it swelling up. But my body felt good, I know that I'm actually lucky that I didn't twist an ankle or really hurt my knee. I talked to my nurse friend Victoria and she pointed out that our jaws are pretty tough, but our wrists are not. Even if I had put my hands out to catch myself, I could have easily broken a wrist.
Well, that's one way to finish out marathon training, with a bang you might say. Overall, I know I'm lucky, it could have been much worse. I should have been keeping a better eye on the sidewalk. I try to keep my head up when I run, but with uneven terrain like that, you have to be aware of every footfall and potential hazard. I don't know what I would have done without my teammates there to help, they are amazing.
I actually finished this run feeling way more confident about December 9th. If I can make it through 22 miles after literally falling on my face, I can make it through 26.2 no problem! I'll just have to keep reminding myself of that.
This week is Thanksgiving week and I'm not looking forward to trying to eat turkey and sweet potatoes with a bandage on my chin, but at least it will make a good story.
This week's plans:
Sun 11/18: Rest
Mon 11/19: Easy 30 min run
Tues 11/20: Yoga
Wed 11/21: Strength training
Thurs 11/22: 8 mile Turkey Trot
Fri 11/23: Rest or yoga
Sat 11/24: 12 miles easy
Monday, August 27, 2012
Dallas Marathon Training: Week 6 Complete
Last week's workouts:
Sun 8/19: Yoga for Runners, 25 min
Mon 8/20: 30 min recovery run (3.11 mi, 33:22)+ Gaia Flow Yoga (Ocean Practice, 90 min)
Tues 8/21: DRC training group, 1 hr base/easy (5.83 mi, 1:01:35)
Wed 8/22:Rest or strength training
Thurs 8/23: 50 min base/easy (3 mi, 35:00)
Fri 8/24:30 min recovery run
Sat 8/25: DRC Training Group, 12 mi (12.65 mi, 2:17:26)
First things first, our friend Brandon is improving every day! He was taken off the respirator on Friday, had his neck brace taken off Saturday and was moved out of ICU on Sunday. Yay!
On Wednesday, my calf felt a little sore. We had done a little off-roading (not trail running exactly but definitely off the beaten path) and I was also wearing new shoes. Wednesday was a planned rest day from running and Thursday I woke up ready to get my run on. Unfortunately, I felt pain immediately and knew something was not right. I cut my run short and went home to ice and foam roll. I took Friday as a rest day and did more icing and foam rolling. By Saturday morning, it felt much better, but was hurting again not long after we started our 12 mile run. I stretched really well on our 8 mile water stop and the rest of the run felt a little easier. However, by Saturday afternoon, I was really hobbling around and going up and down stairs felt horrible.
Sunday I did yoga, foam rolled and iced some more. I called my doctor's office first thing Monday morning and they managed to fit me in that morning. Luckily, the doctor thought it was just a minor muscle strain and recommended rest and some prescription strength anti-inflammatory meds. I'm already feeling good this evening, but I'm definitely going to continue to rest most of the week to make sure everything is healed up.
So no plan for this week, I'll do yoga as many days as I can.
Have a happy and healthy week!
Sun 8/19: Yoga for Runners, 25 min
Mon 8/20: 30 min recovery run (3.11 mi, 33:22)+ Gaia Flow Yoga (Ocean Practice, 90 min)
Tues 8/21: DRC training group, 1 hr base/easy (5.83 mi, 1:01:35)
Wed 8/22:
Thurs 8/23: 50 min base/easy (3 mi, 35:00)
Fri 8/24:
Sat 8/25: DRC Training Group, 12 mi (12.65 mi, 2:17:26)
First things first, our friend Brandon is improving every day! He was taken off the respirator on Friday, had his neck brace taken off Saturday and was moved out of ICU on Sunday. Yay!
On Wednesday, my calf felt a little sore. We had done a little off-roading (not trail running exactly but definitely off the beaten path) and I was also wearing new shoes. Wednesday was a planned rest day from running and Thursday I woke up ready to get my run on. Unfortunately, I felt pain immediately and knew something was not right. I cut my run short and went home to ice and foam roll. I took Friday as a rest day and did more icing and foam rolling. By Saturday morning, it felt much better, but was hurting again not long after we started our 12 mile run. I stretched really well on our 8 mile water stop and the rest of the run felt a little easier. However, by Saturday afternoon, I was really hobbling around and going up and down stairs felt horrible.
Sunday I did yoga, foam rolled and iced some more. I called my doctor's office first thing Monday morning and they managed to fit me in that morning. Luckily, the doctor thought it was just a minor muscle strain and recommended rest and some prescription strength anti-inflammatory meds. I'm already feeling good this evening, but I'm definitely going to continue to rest most of the week to make sure everything is healed up.
So no plan for this week, I'll do yoga as many days as I can.
Have a happy and healthy week!
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Review: Gaia Flow Yoga
Since I decided to cut back on running over the summer, I redeemed a Groupon I bought a while back for a month of classes at Gaia Flow Yoga. I had heard of Gaia because they were a featured studio at Lululemon's weekly free yoga and I really enjoyed the instructors that came to teach. I actually did not realize until I showed up at the studio that all of the classes are hot yoga classes. Gulp! I was skeered and very glad that I'd brought a towel.
The staff at Gaia is super friendly, all of the instructors I encountered took the time to learn my name. Every class starts out with core work to prepare for practice. I really am bad about not doing any core strengthening exercises on my own because I figure most of the yoga I do works my abs. At the end of the month, I feel like my abs are a lot stronger and since you use those core muscles so much to hold yourself in poses, it makes sense to spend extra time on them.
After abs, the instructor introduces themselves and often asks new people to introduce themselves. They also ask people to share any "good news" and then talk about the weekly sadhana, or theme. The theme is a yoga principle that you are to focus on for the week, such as purity or responsibility. The instructors tie that idea into your yoga practice and your daily life.
Then comes the flow part of class. I attended a few different types of classes, focusing mostly on beginner levels (Gentle Flow and Desert). Although I'm not a "beginner" yogi, I felt like I needed time to get used to the heat. The studio is usually somewhere between 92 and 96 degrees and you will sweat! I have never sweat so much doing any other workout. It is absolutely necessary to bring a towel and most people have a yoga towel that they put over their mat. I thought about getting one and ultimately decided not to spend the money, but it would be helpful to keep your hands from sliding. Gaia has towels available for rent, but I just brought my own.
I did take one more advanced level class called Mountain that focused on balance postures and the instructor put us all against the wall to do handstands and standing splits. It was definitely the most challenging yoga class I've ever taken! My muscles felt like Jell-O afterwards. In a good way. :)
Overall I had a great experience at Gaia and I wish that my budget would allow for me to be a regular member. I might do some drop-in classes and I will definitely keep an eye out for any good deals they might have in the future.
The staff at Gaia is super friendly, all of the instructors I encountered took the time to learn my name. Every class starts out with core work to prepare for practice. I really am bad about not doing any core strengthening exercises on my own because I figure most of the yoga I do works my abs. At the end of the month, I feel like my abs are a lot stronger and since you use those core muscles so much to hold yourself in poses, it makes sense to spend extra time on them.
After abs, the instructor introduces themselves and often asks new people to introduce themselves. They also ask people to share any "good news" and then talk about the weekly sadhana, or theme. The theme is a yoga principle that you are to focus on for the week, such as purity or responsibility. The instructors tie that idea into your yoga practice and your daily life.
Then comes the flow part of class. I attended a few different types of classes, focusing mostly on beginner levels (Gentle Flow and Desert). Although I'm not a "beginner" yogi, I felt like I needed time to get used to the heat. The studio is usually somewhere between 92 and 96 degrees and you will sweat! I have never sweat so much doing any other workout. It is absolutely necessary to bring a towel and most people have a yoga towel that they put over their mat. I thought about getting one and ultimately decided not to spend the money, but it would be helpful to keep your hands from sliding. Gaia has towels available for rent, but I just brought my own.
I did take one more advanced level class called Mountain that focused on balance postures and the instructor put us all against the wall to do handstands and standing splits. It was definitely the most challenging yoga class I've ever taken! My muscles felt like Jell-O afterwards. In a good way. :)
Overall I had a great experience at Gaia and I wish that my budget would allow for me to be a regular member. I might do some drop-in classes and I will definitely keep an eye out for any good deals they might have in the future.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Wounded Warrior Half Marathon Training: Can I count this as Week 7 complete?
I have been feeling great this week! Doctor's orders said to take things easy as far as workouts go, so I tried to do that. I got my stitches taken out on Thursday and have to wear something like Steri Strips to keep everything flat while it's healing.
So here's what I ended up doing for workouts:
Sun: Rest
Mon: Walked 2.5 miles
Tues: Walked 2.5 miles
Wed: Walked 2 miles
Thurs: Rest
Fri: Yoga for Runners podcast
Sat: 7 miles easy run (with lots of walk breaks)
I was worried about trying for a long-ish run on Saturday having been off for 2 weeks, but I felt pretty good! I made sure to take a lot of walking breaks and keep my pace very slow to not get my heart rate up too high. (The plastic surgeon doesn't want to risk me bursting a blood vessel where my skin is trying to heal).
I'm not sure what kind of goal to set for myself since my race is only 3 weeks away. So I guess my only goal will be to finish and if I need to do a run/walk half marathon, then that's what I'll do.
Here are my plans for this week:
Sun: Yoga Sculpt
Mon: Short run (2-3 mi) easy
Tues: Lululemon yoga
Wed: Short run (2-3 mi) easy
Thurs: Rest
Fri: Yoga
Sat: 9 miles easy
So here's what I ended up doing for workouts:
Sun: Rest
Mon: Walked 2.5 miles
Tues: Walked 2.5 miles
Wed: Walked 2 miles
Thurs: Rest
Fri: Yoga for Runners podcast
Sat: 7 miles easy run (with lots of walk breaks)
I was worried about trying for a long-ish run on Saturday having been off for 2 weeks, but I felt pretty good! I made sure to take a lot of walking breaks and keep my pace very slow to not get my heart rate up too high. (The plastic surgeon doesn't want to risk me bursting a blood vessel where my skin is trying to heal).
I'm not sure what kind of goal to set for myself since my race is only 3 weeks away. So I guess my only goal will be to finish and if I need to do a run/walk half marathon, then that's what I'll do.
Here are my plans for this week:
Sun: Yoga Sculpt
Mon: Short run (2-3 mi) easy
Tues: Lululemon yoga
Wed: Short run (2-3 mi) easy
Thurs: Rest
Fri: Yoga
Sat: 9 miles easy
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Still resting...
Monday I went in for Moh's surgery. The procedure was quick and pretty painless. They gave me a local anesthesia on the site where they would be working, so I didn't feel a thing. Then they bandaged me up with a pressure bandage and told me to leave the bandage on for 48 hours. If they got the results back and not all the cancer was gone, they would have me come back on Wednesday and do more work. If the results showed that they got all the cancer, I would be able to go to the plastic surgeon on Thursday to have repair work done.
So Tuesday and Wednesday I got to go to work with this lovely thing on my head.
Pretty hot, amirite?
I took that picture right before I took the bandage off (Wednesday evening, after it had been 48 hours). I don't know what I was expecting, but I almost passed out when I saw what was under there. I finally had to get my husband to change the bandage for me. I'm not normally squeamish, but I totally wimped out.
Thursday I was supposed to get to the surgery center at 12:30pm and couldn't eat or drink after 6:30am. So I set my alarm for 6:00 so I could have a little breakfast. Well, I woke up with the worst migraine I've had in years, I tried to drink water and threw it up. I'll spare you the details but I spent most of the morning throwing up before I finally called the surgery center to see what I should do. They suggested I take my normal migraine meds (even though they contain asprin) to try to get the migraine under control, but I just threw that up as well. Then they told me to just go ahead and come in and they would start my IV meds early.
I was relieved they still wanted me to come in, I was afraid they would say they couldn't do the operation. Everyone at the Texas Institute for Surgery was so nice and understanding. The nurses went out of their way to make sure I was comfortable, knowing how bad I felt. Once they started my IV, I felt so much better. The plastic surgeon and the anesthesiologist were very nice and explained what all was going to happen. They let Michael stay with me all the way up until they wheeled me into the operating room. I remember them moving me onto the operating table and after that I was out cold.
After surgery, they took me to a nice recovery area (lots of other patients, but we were all seperated by curtains so it felt somewhat private). They brought me water and graham crackers and Michael got to come sit with me. The plastic surgeon came over and showed me before and after pictures he had taken of the site. I have a line of stitches running from my hairline down to my eyebrow. Still kinda gross, but not nearly as gross as before!
Anyway, I've spent the weekend just resting. I haven't had too much pain, I've been taking prescription pain killers every 4 hours to keep it that way. On Thursday I get my stitches out and I'll see what the doctor says about activity and so forth after that.
I'm not going to lie, I've been a little antsy about not being able to work out. Plus the weather has been beautiful, there is nothing I want more than to go for a run! I hope by next weekend I'll be able to.
Hope everyone has a happy and healthy week!
So Tuesday and Wednesday I got to go to work with this lovely thing on my head.
Pretty hot, amirite?
I took that picture right before I took the bandage off (Wednesday evening, after it had been 48 hours). I don't know what I was expecting, but I almost passed out when I saw what was under there. I finally had to get my husband to change the bandage for me. I'm not normally squeamish, but I totally wimped out.
Thursday I was supposed to get to the surgery center at 12:30pm and couldn't eat or drink after 6:30am. So I set my alarm for 6:00 so I could have a little breakfast. Well, I woke up with the worst migraine I've had in years, I tried to drink water and threw it up. I'll spare you the details but I spent most of the morning throwing up before I finally called the surgery center to see what I should do. They suggested I take my normal migraine meds (even though they contain asprin) to try to get the migraine under control, but I just threw that up as well. Then they told me to just go ahead and come in and they would start my IV meds early.
I was relieved they still wanted me to come in, I was afraid they would say they couldn't do the operation. Everyone at the Texas Institute for Surgery was so nice and understanding. The nurses went out of their way to make sure I was comfortable, knowing how bad I felt. Once they started my IV, I felt so much better. The plastic surgeon and the anesthesiologist were very nice and explained what all was going to happen. They let Michael stay with me all the way up until they wheeled me into the operating room. I remember them moving me onto the operating table and after that I was out cold.
After surgery, they took me to a nice recovery area (lots of other patients, but we were all seperated by curtains so it felt somewhat private). They brought me water and graham crackers and Michael got to come sit with me. The plastic surgeon came over and showed me before and after pictures he had taken of the site. I have a line of stitches running from my hairline down to my eyebrow. Still kinda gross, but not nearly as gross as before!
Anyway, I've spent the weekend just resting. I haven't had too much pain, I've been taking prescription pain killers every 4 hours to keep it that way. On Thursday I get my stitches out and I'll see what the doctor says about activity and so forth after that.
I'm not going to lie, I've been a little antsy about not being able to work out. Plus the weather has been beautiful, there is nothing I want more than to go for a run! I hope by next weekend I'll be able to.
Hope everyone has a happy and healthy week!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
The end is near!
The end of training, that is!
Last week's workouts:
Sunday: Easy yoga
Monday: 2 miles treadmill intervals
Tuesday: Lululemon yoga
Wednesday: 2 milestreadmill intervals easy in the 'hood.
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Rest?
Saturday: Run 10 miles (last long run before the half!)
Hey, I almost did all my workouts this week! I was glad to get out of work early enough on Wednesday to get in an outside run before dark. I'd had a bad headache all day, so I took it pretty easy. Thursday and Friday we were traveling (drove to and from Austin) and still had a lingering headache, but luckily my run on Saturday went great.
This week's plan:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Did .6 mi on the treadmill before power yoga
Tuesday: 2.15 mi treadmill intervals (plus walked to work)
Wednesday: Cardio + yoga podcast
Thursday: 2 mi treadmill intervals
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Rest or easy yoga
Sunday: Race day!
I'm starting to get excited!
Last week's workouts:
Sunday: Easy yoga
Monday: 2 miles treadmill intervals
Tuesday: Lululemon yoga
Wednesday: 2 miles
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Rest?
Saturday: Run 10 miles (last long run before the half!)
Hey, I almost did all my workouts this week! I was glad to get out of work early enough on Wednesday to get in an outside run before dark. I'd had a bad headache all day, so I took it pretty easy. Thursday and Friday we were traveling (drove to and from Austin) and still had a lingering headache, but luckily my run on Saturday went great.
This week's plan:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Did .6 mi on the treadmill before power yoga
Tuesday: 2.15 mi treadmill intervals (plus walked to work)
Wednesday: Cardio + yoga podcast
Thursday: 2 mi treadmill intervals
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Rest or easy yoga
Sunday: Race day!
I'm starting to get excited!
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Half Marathon training: Week 10
Last week's workouts:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Run 2 miles; strength training
Tuesday: Lululemonyoga pilates (this was hard!)
Wednesday:Run 3 miles Rest
Thursday:Rest Ran 3 miles on the treadmills
Friday: Yoga (I ended up doing the Yoga For Runners podcast from yogadownload.com)
Saturday: Run 7 miles
This week's plans:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Run 2 miles; strength training
Tuesday: Lululemon pilates OR yoga DVR at home
Wednesday: Run 3 miles
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Yoga
Saturday: Run 8 miles
The weather has been fantastic this week and my allergies seem to have calmed down!
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Run 2 miles; strength training
Tuesday: Lululemon
Wednesday:
Thursday:
Friday: Yoga (I ended up doing the Yoga For Runners podcast from yogadownload.com)
Saturday: Run 7 miles
This week's plans:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Run 2 miles; strength training
Tuesday: Lululemon pilates OR yoga DVR at home
Wednesday: Run 3 miles
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Yoga
Saturday: Run 8 miles
The weather has been fantastic this week and my allergies seem to have calmed down!
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Half marathon training: Week 9
Last week's workouts:
Sunday: Rest (although I'll be lugging multiple loads of laundry up and down stairs, so I think that counts for something!)
Monday:Run 2 miles Total Body Sculpt: Hips, Thighs, Abs, Back and Triceps
Tuesday:Lululemon yoga Worked late, did my favorite Rodney Yee DVD at home
Wednesday: Run 3 miles
Thursday: Rest
Friday:Yoga Walked to and from work
Saturday:Should be an easy 3 mile run but I will try to do a longer run to make up for the ones I've missed! 6 miles on the Katy Trail
Last week was a tough one, my allergies were terrible and I had sinus headaches off and on. By Saturday, I felt a lot better and went further than I'd originally planned. I thought about the people who can't run but wish they could. I am lucky enough to be healthy and able to do so many things.
This week's plan:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Run 2 miles; strength training
Tuesday: Lululemon yoga
Wednesday: Run 3 miles
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Yoga
Saturday: Run 7 miles
Sunday: Rest (although I'll be lugging multiple loads of laundry up and down stairs, so I think that counts for something!)
Monday:
Tuesday:
Wednesday: Run 3 miles
Thursday: Rest
Friday:
Saturday:
Last week was a tough one, my allergies were terrible and I had sinus headaches off and on. By Saturday, I felt a lot better and went further than I'd originally planned. I thought about the people who can't run but wish they could. I am lucky enough to be healthy and able to do so many things.
This week's plan:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Run 2 miles; strength training
Tuesday: Lululemon yoga
Wednesday: Run 3 miles
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Yoga
Saturday: Run 7 miles
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Stay safe out there!
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Run 2 miles + strength training
Tuesday: Lululemon yoga
Wednesday: Run 3 miles
Thursday:Cardio + strength Rest
Friday:Rest or easy yoga Shiva Rea Daily Energy yoga
Saturday:Scheduled to do 7 miles, which at this point is laughable. 5 miles
This week actually felt like fall! The weather has been amazing, I did all my runs outside this week. I know I am still behind on my half-marathon training but I had to be happy with 5 miles on the Katy Trail. It's the longest run I've been able to do so far and I felt strong through the whole thing. Yay!
A high school friend of ours was in a serious accident
on the Katy Trail this week.
It has served as a reminder for me to be very aware of my surroundings, especially since the Katy Trail can get very crowded when the weather is nice. I normally don't run with headphones in my neighborhood for fear of not being able to hear a car, but I usually do on the trail because I assume it's safer. However, yesterday I did my run without any music and it was actually nice to just listen to the sounds of nature around me.
Lauren's accident has really touched off a debate between cyclists and runners in Dallas where there was already a significant amount of tension. I hope what happened can serve as a reminder to all of us that without a lot of greenways, we must learn to share what we have.
Everyone should be able to exercise outside and enjoy nature, but please be safe while you do it!
This week's plan:
Sunday: Rest (although I'll be lugging multiple loads of laundry up and down stairs, so I think that counts for something!
Monday: Run 2 miles
Tuesday: Lululemon yoga
Wednesday: Run 3 miles
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Yoga
Saturday: Should be an easy 3 mile run but I will try to do a longer run to make up for the ones I've missed!
Monday: Run 2 miles + strength training
Tuesday: Lululemon yoga
Wednesday: Run 3 miles
Thursday:
Friday:
Saturday:
This week actually felt like fall! The weather has been amazing, I did all my runs outside this week. I know I am still behind on my half-marathon training but I had to be happy with 5 miles on the Katy Trail. It's the longest run I've been able to do so far and I felt strong through the whole thing. Yay!
A high school friend of ours was in a serious accident
on the Katy Trail this week.
It has served as a reminder for me to be very aware of my surroundings, especially since the Katy Trail can get very crowded when the weather is nice. I normally don't run with headphones in my neighborhood for fear of not being able to hear a car, but I usually do on the trail because I assume it's safer. However, yesterday I did my run without any music and it was actually nice to just listen to the sounds of nature around me.
Lauren's accident has really touched off a debate between cyclists and runners in Dallas where there was already a significant amount of tension. I hope what happened can serve as a reminder to all of us that without a lot of greenways, we must learn to share what we have.
Everyone should be able to exercise outside and enjoy nature, but please be safe while you do it!
This week's plan:
Sunday: Rest (although I'll be lugging multiple loads of laundry up and down stairs, so I think that counts for something!
Monday: Run 2 miles
Tuesday: Lululemon yoga
Wednesday: Run 3 miles
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Yoga
Saturday: Should be an easy 3 mile run but I will try to do a longer run to make up for the ones I've missed!
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Conspiracy Theory
This week's workouts:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Jay Johnson Boot Camp Cardio (only 15 minutes but after a bunch of errands this was all I could squeeze in!)
Tuesday: Lululemon yoga class
Wednesday: Run 3 miles
Thursday:Cardio + strength Rest day
Friday:Easy yoga or rest Jay Johnson Boot Camp Cardio + strength
Saturday: Run6 miles 3 miles
Seriously?! The weather is conspiring against me, I have not been able to have a long run since I started training for this half. This morning I woke up to rain. No big deal, a little rain never hurt anybody. I still planned on hitting the trail, just with a hat and a towel waiting in the car. Running in the rain is clinically proven to make you feel like a badass. On the way, the rain started coming down even harder and then...lightning! So I changed routes and headed to the gym. I am really getting tired of the treadmill, I feel like my gait is off and my knee can't stand it for very long. I managed to feel strong for 3 miles until my knee just couldn't take it anymore.
This week's plan:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Run 2 miles
Tuesday: Lululemon yoga
Wednesday: Run 3 miles
Thursday: Cardio + strength
Friday: Rest or easy yoga
Saturday: Scheduled to do 7 miles, which at this point is laughable.
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Jay Johnson Boot Camp Cardio (only 15 minutes but after a bunch of errands this was all I could squeeze in!)
Tuesday: Lululemon yoga class
Wednesday: Run 3 miles
Thursday:
Friday:
Saturday: Run
Seriously?! The weather is conspiring against me, I have not been able to have a long run since I started training for this half. This morning I woke up to rain. No big deal, a little rain never hurt anybody. I still planned on hitting the trail, just with a hat and a towel waiting in the car. Running in the rain is clinically proven to make you feel like a badass. On the way, the rain started coming down even harder and then...lightning! So I changed routes and headed to the gym. I am really getting tired of the treadmill, I feel like my gait is off and my knee can't stand it for very long. I managed to feel strong for 3 miles until my knee just couldn't take it anymore.
This week's plan:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Run 2 miles
Tuesday: Lululemon yoga
Wednesday: Run 3 miles
Thursday: Cardio + strength
Friday: Rest or easy yoga
Saturday: Scheduled to do 7 miles, which at this point is laughable.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
The Good Kind of Sore
Last week's workouts:
Sunday: Rest(I might sneak in some easy yoga, shhh!)
Monday:Power Yoga class
Tuesday: Run 2 miles
Wednesday: Restor easy yoga
Thursday: Run 2 miles
Friday:Jay Johnson Boot Camp: Cardio and Legs Ran 3 miles
Saturday:Run 3 miles Power Yoga: Total Body (Rodney Yee DVD)
It was another week of falling back on Plan B's, but luckily I got all my runs in. I didn't have the energy I was hoping I would have at the beginning of the week but thankfully by the end of the week I felt so much better. My mouth is healing right on schedule and on Thursday at my follow-up appointment, they told me I didn't need to wear the plastic stent anymore and that I could graduate to real food! What a difference real food makes in your energy level!
Since I was all energized on Friday, I decided to go ahead and get my "long" run out of the way so that Saturday I could go to Cardio Muscle on Saturday if I felt up to it. Saturday morning I decided that what my legs really needed was some good stretching. I have had this Rodney Yee DVD (Power Yoga: Total Body) for EVER and it is still one of my favorite workouts. Today my legs are sore from it, but definitely in a good way!
Buster likes to do yoga with me.
Feel free to ignore the jumble of shoes and reusable bags by the door.
*Knock on wood* Work has calmed down a bit and I didn't end up staying late at all last week. I hope the trend continues this week!
This week's plan:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Power Yoga class
Tuesday: Run 2 miles
Wednesday: Cardio/strength DVD (probably either Total Body Sculpt or Boot Camp, I'll see what I feel like)
Thursday: Run 2 miles
Friday: Easy yoga
Saturday: 4 mile run
Sunday: Rest
Monday:
Tuesday: Run 2 miles
Wednesday: Rest
Thursday: Run 2 miles
Friday:
Saturday:
It was another week of falling back on Plan B's, but luckily I got all my runs in. I didn't have the energy I was hoping I would have at the beginning of the week but thankfully by the end of the week I felt so much better. My mouth is healing right on schedule and on Thursday at my follow-up appointment, they told me I didn't need to wear the plastic stent anymore and that I could graduate to real food! What a difference real food makes in your energy level!
Since I was all energized on Friday, I decided to go ahead and get my "long" run out of the way so that Saturday I could go to Cardio Muscle on Saturday if I felt up to it. Saturday morning I decided that what my legs really needed was some good stretching. I have had this Rodney Yee DVD (Power Yoga: Total Body) for EVER and it is still one of my favorite workouts. Today my legs are sore from it, but definitely in a good way!
Buster likes to do yoga with me.
Feel free to ignore the jumble of shoes and reusable bags by the door.
*Knock on wood* Work has calmed down a bit and I didn't end up staying late at all last week. I hope the trend continues this week!
This week's plan:
Sunday: Rest
Monday: Power Yoga class
Tuesday: Run 2 miles
Wednesday: Cardio/strength DVD (probably either Total Body Sculpt or Boot Camp, I'll see what I feel like)
Thursday: Run 2 miles
Friday: Easy yoga
Saturday: 4 mile run
Sunday, August 22, 2010
A week of Plan B's
Last week's actual workouts:
Sunday:Bike ride or 2 mile run (if I get up early enough and depending on how I feel) Had another bad headache.
Monday:Power Yoga class Ran 2 miles
Tuesday:Run 2 miles Took my rest day, went out to Irving to eat with my grandad.
Wednesday:rest or easy yoga Jay Johnson Boot Camp Cardio
Thursday: Run 2 miles
It was one of those weeks! It felt like everything was working against me to get my workouts in. I always try to have a Plan B in mind and this week I definitely fell back on those. Friday I had oral surgery (yuck) and they gave me strict orders not to work out for 3 days. Today is Sunday and I am really getting restless!
I hope this next week will be better! Surgery went as well as it could have. I still have stitches in my mouth and have to wear a palatal stent which makes it really hard to eat. This definitely affects my energy level! Here is the upcoming week's plans:
Sunday: Rest (I might sneak in some easy yoga, shhh!)
Monday: Power Yoga class
Tuesday: Run 2 miles
Wednesday: Rest or easy yoga
Thursday: Run 2 miles
Friday: Jay Johnson Boot Camp: Cardio and Legs
Saturday: Run 3 miles
Sunday:
Monday:
Tuesday:
Wednesday:
Thursday: Run 2 miles
It was one of those weeks! It felt like everything was working against me to get my workouts in. I always try to have a Plan B in mind and this week I definitely fell back on those. Friday I had oral surgery (yuck) and they gave me strict orders not to work out for 3 days. Today is Sunday and I am really getting restless!
I hope this next week will be better! Surgery went as well as it could have. I still have stitches in my mouth and have to wear a palatal stent which makes it really hard to eat. This definitely affects my energy level! Here is the upcoming week's plans:
Sunday: Rest (I might sneak in some easy yoga, shhh!)
Monday: Power Yoga class
Tuesday: Run 2 miles
Wednesday: Rest or easy yoga
Thursday: Run 2 miles
Friday: Jay Johnson Boot Camp: Cardio and Legs
Saturday: Run 3 miles
Saturday, August 14, 2010
This week's actual workouts:
Sunday: Jay Johnson Boot Camp: Cardio, Legs
Monday: Power yoga class
Tuesday: Run 2 miles
Wednesday: rest
Thursday: Run 2 miles
Friday:easy yoga Nothing
Saturday:Run 2 miles Jay Johnson Boot Camp: Cardio, Legs
Friday night we ended up going to the in-laws for after-work drinks. I have been fighting some sinus congestion all week and Friday afternoon it really hit hard. So Saturday I decided to let myself sleep in a little and once I was up and had some coffee in me I felt well enough to do Jay Johnson OnDemand.
I have always wanted to do some of his real-life boot camps but they are really expensive! I like the workouts I have found OnDemand, though. He has some funny catch phrases. Some of my favorites:
"Hold on to your hat!"
"If you're not living on the edge, you're taking up too much room."
"Treat your body as something other than a clothes hanger."
This week's plan:
Sunday: Bike ride or 2 mile run (if I get up early enough and depending on how I feel)
Monday: Power Yoga class
Tuesday: Run 2 miles
Wednesday: rest or easy yoga
Thursday: Run 2 miles
Friday: Nothing, I'm having oral surgery, yuck.
Saturday: Depends on how I feel after Friday! I really want to go to my favorite Cardio Muscle class but I will have to play it by ear.
Sunday: Jay Johnson Boot Camp: Cardio, Legs
Monday: Power yoga class
Tuesday: Run 2 miles
Wednesday: rest
Thursday: Run 2 miles
Friday:
Saturday:
Friday night we ended up going to the in-laws for after-work drinks. I have been fighting some sinus congestion all week and Friday afternoon it really hit hard. So Saturday I decided to let myself sleep in a little and once I was up and had some coffee in me I felt well enough to do Jay Johnson OnDemand.
I have always wanted to do some of his real-life boot camps but they are really expensive! I like the workouts I have found OnDemand, though. He has some funny catch phrases. Some of my favorites:
"Hold on to your hat!"
"If you're not living on the edge, you're taking up too much room."
"Treat your body as something other than a clothes hanger."
This week's plan:
Sunday: Bike ride or 2 mile run (if I get up early enough and depending on how I feel)
Monday: Power Yoga class
Tuesday: Run 2 miles
Wednesday: rest or easy yoga
Thursday: Run 2 miles
Friday: Nothing, I'm having oral surgery, yuck.
Saturday: Depends on how I feel after Friday! I really want to go to my favorite Cardio Muscle class but I will have to play it by ear.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Back on the wagon
You know how sometimes things sneak up on you?
After I ran a half marathon in May and it didn't kill me, I decided that I would run another one in December. It felt like I had plenty of time so I have barely run at all this summer. I've been staying active with yoga and Cardio Muscle classes at the Y. But I've also been doing bicep curls with this:
Mmmm...nothing better than a cold beer on a hot summer day!
So last night (while drinking a beer, heh) I started thinking about the December race and thought I'd check to see when I needed to start training. If I want to do the usual 16-week training, I'd need to start....next week?!
It's been up to 105 here in Dallas, so running has been the last thing on my mind. I think I will be sticking to the treadmill for the early part of training, until the weather cools off.
I want to stick to training better this time than I did the last time. While I was proud of my time for my first half, I want to feel stronger for this one. So I'm going to do a check-in weekly to keep myself accountable. I also want to keep up some strength training so I don't lose the benefits I've gained from that.
Here is this week's workout plan:
Sunday: Jay Johnson Boot Camp: Cardio, Legs
Monday: Power yoga class
Tuesday: Run 2 miles
Wednesday: rest
Thursday: Run 2 miles
Friday: easy yoga
Saturday: Run 2 miles
Here we go!
After I ran a half marathon in May and it didn't kill me, I decided that I would run another one in December. It felt like I had plenty of time so I have barely run at all this summer. I've been staying active with yoga and Cardio Muscle classes at the Y. But I've also been doing bicep curls with this:
Mmmm...nothing better than a cold beer on a hot summer day!
So last night (while drinking a beer, heh) I started thinking about the December race and thought I'd check to see when I needed to start training. If I want to do the usual 16-week training, I'd need to start....next week?!
It's been up to 105 here in Dallas, so running has been the last thing on my mind. I think I will be sticking to the treadmill for the early part of training, until the weather cools off.
I want to stick to training better this time than I did the last time. While I was proud of my time for my first half, I want to feel stronger for this one. So I'm going to do a check-in weekly to keep myself accountable. I also want to keep up some strength training so I don't lose the benefits I've gained from that.
Here is this week's workout plan:
Sunday: Jay Johnson Boot Camp: Cardio, Legs
Monday: Power yoga class
Tuesday: Run 2 miles
Wednesday: rest
Thursday: Run 2 miles
Friday: easy yoga
Saturday: Run 2 miles
Here we go!
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Wish List Wednesday: Running
I started running last year and have really enjoyed racing. I decided to really challenge myself: I am going to run a half marathon in May! I started training this week (using the Runner's World Smart Coach) and I've been doing yoga on my crosstrain/rest days to stay limber.
So here are some items on my wish list for training!
I definitely need some new shoes and am looking forward to getting fitted at Run On. These are Asics.
I bought capris similar to these. I have always been self conscious about wearing really fitted pants but these were suprisingly flattering and comfortable to run in. I need some more while it's still too cool to wear shorts! These are Xersion brand from JC Penney.
Music makes running so much more enjoyable, but I really need an armband for my Zune. It is hard to find one that fits my scrawny arms, though. (I'm doing pushups!)
I might also want a pretty yoga mat! This one is by Gaiam, I have always had good luck with their products.
So here are some items on my wish list for training!
I definitely need some new shoes and am looking forward to getting fitted at Run On. These are Asics.
I bought capris similar to these. I have always been self conscious about wearing really fitted pants but these were suprisingly flattering and comfortable to run in. I need some more while it's still too cool to wear shorts! These are Xersion brand from JC Penney.
Music makes running so much more enjoyable, but I really need an armband for my Zune. It is hard to find one that fits my scrawny arms, though. (I'm doing pushups!)
I might also want a pretty yoga mat! This one is by Gaiam, I have always had good luck with their products.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Race for the Cure
On Saturday I had the opportunity to participate in Race for the Cure North Texas. I signed up through JC Penney, which put together a big team. My goal was to raise $100 and thanks to the generous support of friends, family and coworkers, I raised $136!
The race itself was pretty hard, I have had better runs. It was already so hot out by 8am and in addition the allergens were terrible. My nose was congested by the halfway point. My original goal was to finish in less than 30 minutes, but my time ended up 30:41. I still beat my time from the 5k I did two months ago, so I will have to be happy with that.
After the race, there was a huge area set up with a band and sponsor booths. There was so much free stuff: Einstein's bagels, coupons from Chick-fil-a, fruit, water bottles, Sun Chips...I walked around collecting some freebies for a while. I never did find my JC Penney group, I guess nobody else was in the starting corral that was set up for those using chip timing.
After I left the freebie area and walked back past the finish line to head to the car, it was really inspiring to see all the people still walking the race. The street was just a sea of pink, it was an incredible amount of people! I will definitely participate in Race for the Cure again!
The race itself was pretty hard, I have had better runs. It was already so hot out by 8am and in addition the allergens were terrible. My nose was congested by the halfway point. My original goal was to finish in less than 30 minutes, but my time ended up 30:41. I still beat my time from the 5k I did two months ago, so I will have to be happy with that.
After the race, there was a huge area set up with a band and sponsor booths. There was so much free stuff: Einstein's bagels, coupons from Chick-fil-a, fruit, water bottles, Sun Chips...I walked around collecting some freebies for a while. I never did find my JC Penney group, I guess nobody else was in the starting corral that was set up for those using chip timing.
After I left the freebie area and walked back past the finish line to head to the car, it was really inspiring to see all the people still walking the race. The street was just a sea of pink, it was an incredible amount of people! I will definitely participate in Race for the Cure again!
Sunday, April 5, 2009
31:51
Running is going well! I asked for (and got!) a running watch for my birthday. I am still figuring out all the ins and outs of using the software, and unfortunately the heart rate strap doesn't quite fit around my chest. However, it has really helped me be able to more accurately track my runs and I've enjoyed using it.
My friend Sarah works for Genesis Women's Shelter and she asked a few of us to participate in the Make the Break 5k. Aria, Jessica and I signed up and had a great time on Saturday. I wasn't sure how long it would take me and goaled myself at 35 minutes based on times of other runs I have done outside. Aria and I crossed the finish line together and my chip time was 31:51! I was so excited to see that I beat my goal!
However, I think my Garmin needs to be calibrated! When I stopped the timer, it had logged 5.27km. Hmmm...
My friend Sarah works for Genesis Women's Shelter and she asked a few of us to participate in the Make the Break 5k. Aria, Jessica and I signed up and had a great time on Saturday. I wasn't sure how long it would take me and goaled myself at 35 minutes based on times of other runs I have done outside. Aria and I crossed the finish line together and my chip time was 31:51! I was so excited to see that I beat my goal!
However, I think my Garmin needs to be calibrated! When I stopped the timer, it had logged 5.27km. Hmmm...
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Anybody got a needle and thread?
'Cuz I'm ripped!
Not really, but I did try out a new class yesterday. I am good about doing cardio on my own but one area I always struggle with is strength training. I always feel stupid using the weights at the gym and don't push myself to do more than a couple sets before I give up.
Boot camp definitely helped me build some muscle but the usual class time has been changed so it doesn't look like I'll be able to make it every week. So I decided to try out a new class on Tuesdays called MuscleFlex. I hope to make it part of my regular routine. Pushups, armbands and bosu balls, oh my! My arms are really sore today. Just the push I need!
Not really, but I did try out a new class yesterday. I am good about doing cardio on my own but one area I always struggle with is strength training. I always feel stupid using the weights at the gym and don't push myself to do more than a couple sets before I give up.
Boot camp definitely helped me build some muscle but the usual class time has been changed so it doesn't look like I'll be able to make it every week. So I decided to try out a new class on Tuesdays called MuscleFlex. I hope to make it part of my regular routine. Pushups, armbands and bosu balls, oh my! My arms are really sore today. Just the push I need!
Friday, October 17, 2008
I survived!
The surgery went quickly, even more quickly than originally planned. The anesthesia wasn't as scary as I thought it would be, I felt like I had just closed my eyes for a few seconds.
My cheeks are swollen and it definitely hurts to chew, but I should be feeling better by the time I go back to work on Monday. I think it actually worked out better to reschedule the surgery, since I have an extra couple of days off this way.
I have already read a stack of magazines, finished The Other Boleyn Girl (great book!), started Blink (by the same author of The Tipping Point) and watched The Pursuit of Happyness. I also started the movie version of The Other Boleyn Girl but it seems to deviate a lot from the book so I'm having a hard time getting into it.
Hope everyone has a great weekend!
My cheeks are swollen and it definitely hurts to chew, but I should be feeling better by the time I go back to work on Monday. I think it actually worked out better to reschedule the surgery, since I have an extra couple of days off this way.
I have already read a stack of magazines, finished The Other Boleyn Girl (great book!), started Blink (by the same author of The Tipping Point) and watched The Pursuit of Happyness. I also started the movie version of The Other Boleyn Girl but it seems to deviate a lot from the book so I'm having a hard time getting into it.
Hope everyone has a great weekend!
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