Why I am passionate about nutrition and fitness

Quite a few people have asked me in the past why I suddenly decided to go to school for nutrition and fitness. After all, I’m an artist- I draw. This has been a longstanding passion of mine, and truth be told, writing has always just been my alternative to food service. If you are not an artist, musician or actor, you probably don’t quite get the joke. If you are- you’re nodding your head. You know.

Anyway, few people realize this about me, but at one point, I weighed 225 pounds. I’m 5′1, as I mentioned before. Weight loss was a tricky thing for me- one hand, I knew that I was honestly unhealthy. Other hand- I’m staunchly opposed to the way that the media focuses on weight. You see it all the time, discussions of everything from a particular celebrity’s weight loss and why she is losing it- accusations of drug use, anorexia, you name it. Or, worse, when a celebrity suddenly gains some weight- there is this weird pity thing, though truth be told, as a nation- we don’t really adhere to the same bizarro standard of beauty we hold celebrities to.

One of my absolute favorite songs is Terminal Beauty by Serj Tankian, for this reason.

Rather than try a fad diet, or anything like that- I decided to make my own way. What I did, was a more body positive path of acceptance and health related changes- it bothers me that many people associate thin with being healthy. It isn’t necessarily so- and the current system of BMI ratings further perpetuates an unhealthy image standard that I feel needs to change. I think that the weight loss industry is a sickening, sad dog and pony show, riding closely on the heels of a disturbing obsession with weight. For me, losing weight was part of an overall healthy change in life- but had I been built differently, it may not have been. I think that very few people take into account that fact, and it bothered me. Most of these weight programs I see also seem to focus on BEING THIN! And almost always equate THIN=BEAUTIFUL!=HEALTHY! and this makes me sick. So, my big goal was to work on being able to help people find who THEY want to be- not who they think they have to be. Not who society tells them they have to be- who they want to be, and healthy.

So, there you have it.

[Via http://undergroundimageunlimited.wordpress.com]

Discount Treadmills – Do you get what you pay for?

With discount treadmills, as with any other purchase in life, a bargain can only rightly be called a bargain if the price we pay turns out to be a good investment over time. For example, just as there is little real discount value in purchasing a designer outfit at a great price if it’s not something we really like to wear, investing a smaller amount of money in discount treadmills is not the wisest financial choice if your new discount treadmill ends up not meeting your exercise needs.

In our often high-priced consumer world, there is little doubt that finding great discount treadmills offers a special thrill – this is why shopping for discount can become such an addictive affair! But unlike many of the other items we purchase on a regular basis, such as food or household items, a discount treadmill will be something we hope to invest in only once. Discount or no, and whether we find refurbished treadmills or used treadmills for sale, a piece of fitness equipment of this size is undoubtedly an investment, so when you choose your discount treadmill, you want to be sure that you choose right.

So what should you look for in discount treadmills? While finding used treadmills for sale can offer you a great initial bargain, even the most honest of second hand sellers cannot help you if the used treadmill you purchase develops a problem down the line. Used treadmills for sale usually cannot carry over the initial warranty with which they we re sold, so unless you are sure that the used treadmills for sale that you view are in top condition, you might want to pass on the deal and find discount treadmills elsewhere.

Refurbished treadmills are a great discount treadmills and if they were refurbished by the original treadmill manufacturer, they should still be under some kind of warranty. Though this warranty will probably be somewhat limited when compared with the original treadmill guarantee, refurbished treadmills still offer a great discount treadmill deal. Just be sure to look for ‘factory refurbished’ treadmills, as this ensures that you will be able to avail of that discount treadmills warranty should you need to.

Of course treadmill stores are also a great source of discount treadmills – you just need to keep your eyes peeled for great discount treadmill deals. Some stores will sell older models at a great discount price when new treadmills are released by a particular manufacturer, so keep your finger on the fitness pulse to help you predict when great discount treadmill deals might become available.

Above all, remember not to sacrifice discount treadmills prices for quality or suitability. It’s not a bargain if it’s not the right discount treadmill for you!

[Via http://workoutfitness.wordpress.com]

Get off the couch! Part 2

….

So then EA Sports came out with this work out ‘game’ for the Wii called Active. I had actually received a spam email about it. And I usually delete those type of emails instantly but for some reason I opened that one and was instantly obsessed. I had the date that I came out written in my planner and I had to have it! The day it came out I went straight to the store and bought it! It has three different intensity levels low, medium, and high. You can do a 30 day challenge, workout to one of the games preset workouts, or create a custom workout. You can workout on your own or with a friend. I first started on the medium intensity, and man it kicked my butt! I loved it! It was just what I needed. So after a month of the 30 day challenge I checked my weight…. nothing changed. How? Why? I’m working out!? I’m burning calories!? I feel better!? I have more energy?! What’s going on?! Well, I was still eating the same CRAP I had always eaten! Something had to give. So okay, I have to get my eating under control. So I downloaded an iPhone app to help me track my daily food intake and my caloric intake. So from there I made some adjustments in the way I was eating and realized that I could eat more, if I ate healthy. But if I wanted a glass of wine or a bowl of ice cream, I would have to sacrifice elsewhere in my diet.

While I was starting to become conscious of my eating habits I continued working out with the Wii Active and during my second 30 day challenge I turned up the intensity to high. AND then I started to see the weight come off!!!!! It was amazing! My friends were noticing a difference. My co-workers were noticing. I was noticing a difference. My mom even noticed! After my third or forth month on the Wii Active and the eating change I was able to bring out all those clothes that I had packed up and put in the attic!!!! I was feeling great! But I wasn’t there yet…. I had gotten the bug, the work out bug, and I liked it. I loved waking up every morning and actually wanting to workout. I was good at it! I liked doing it! And I wanted more. I had lost all the weight that I wanted to lose, but I still needed to tone up in some places….

So a friend of mine was telling me about a workout program that she was doing, and that I had heard of before, but thought that it was WAY too intense for me! It was a Boot Camp program. But along with the exercise there is also a eating regimen. Of which, when she told me about it I thought was coo-coo-cachoo! The rules: No Alcohol, No Bread, No Sugar! And it’s not just white granulated sugar, it ALL forms of sugar! Same with bread too, no pasta, no crackers, nothing….

But I was still very intrigued by this Boot Camp program. So I decided to give it a try. I had the confidence in my abilities that I felt I could handle it. So I signed up for what’s called a Mini-Boot Camp session. One hour of cardio and strength training in the gym two days a week, four days a week of a 45 min fat burn at home, and the eating plan for a month. And I decided to go along with the eating plan, because if I’m gonna do something I’m gonna do it right, no half-assing it for me! The first week was great! I had sat down and planned out my meals for the week, went to the store and bought all the food I needed for the program and really stuck with it very well. The second week was a little more difficult because I didn’t plan a head so I ended up eating a lot of the same things everyday… by the third week I really had a hang out it and it was starting to become like second nature. And the time in the gym was great, it was very similar to what I had been doing at home but longer, more reps, and better all around. We would concentrate on certain muscle groups and work it until it was ‘on fire.’ I was feeling it but I loved it!

So, at the beginning and at the end of the Boot Camp month you have the option of doing a weigh-in and getting measurements taken. They weigh you, take measurements or your shoulders, chest, waist, hips, thighs, upper arms, and calves, and calculate your body fat percentage and your BMI. Well I knew my weight and my BMI, but was excited about finding out my body fat percentage. 17.4%!!!!! at the beginning of boot camp! I was floored! That is amazing! Especially since I had achieved that on my own. Super super excited to see what my results would be at the end, I came to the last class early to get weighed-in and measured…. Didn’t lose but 1 single lonely pound!…. But I lost 3 inched around my waist! And two inches around each thigh! Gained an inch in my butt too! And I lost some in all the other places too. So what about that body fat percentage? That’s what I really wanted to see improve…. 17.4%…. Really? Nothing? I didn’t lose any? How can I lose a total of 9.5 inches and not lose body fat? I followed the eating plan for a month? I did the workouts? I did the fat burns at home? Really? How disappointing…. But really?

Should I be so concerned with the numbers? All of my clothes are too big for me. I need to buy all new pants because I do not have a single pair that fit me….? I am buying small and extra small shirts for the first time in my life…? I even need to buy new work out clothes and pajamas because none of mine fit me anymore! So shouldn’t I just be happy with the results that I have achieved? Well, in a way, yes I should be happy and proud of myself and I can say that I am happy with the way that I look and I am proud of myself for setting goals and achieving them. However, on the other hand I feel that if I start patting myself on the back them I’m going to end up getting lazy again and slacking up on my eating and exercising. I feel like I’ve come so far and achieve goals no matter how large or small are a cause for feeling pride. After accomplishing making myself like working out, I feel like I can accomplish damn near anything thrown at me! But I refuse to let myself give up and go back to where I was. I was not at a happy place. And I do not wish to go back to that place of unhappiness and unhealthiness.

So I continue to get up every morning and workout at home sometimes with the Wii and sometimes on my own. I have also developed a home workout incorporating a lot of ballet techniques. I continue to eat really well, no bread, no sugar, no alcohol (except on my one ‘treat day’ per week). And I refuse to give up! I am proud that I have come as far as I have and can’t wait to continue to feel great and look great!

[Via http://missbettyann.wordpress.com]

How Not To Sell in the Gym

I don’t want this blog to become a series of angry rants however last night I witnessed a prime example of how not to sell something in the gym.

Every 6 months or so my gym has a local chiropractor come in. Him and his assistants set up a stand in the soft mat area along with some crazy “alignment checking” tool (which I suspect is more about grabbing attention than anything practical). Which is all fine and dandy. Except when they start interrupting peoples work outs to offer a posture check.

Mid ab session I was approached by a sales lady who, while polite, stopped me in the middle of my workout and then wouldn’t go away. She’d lost any potential sale the minute she interrupted me and killed it 30 seconds later when she was still talking.

Seriously, if you’re selling something in the gym don’t interrupt peoples workouts. Its just plain rude.

[Via http://activateyourglutes.wordpress.com]

Mamaste Yoga

Since my running days are few and far between, I thought I would bring back “Five Minutes for Fitness” as a Thursday feature.

 

Running has become very laboring (no pun intended) and increasing difficult, so I have to find alternative ways to stay fit.  Since most aerobic activities causes difficulty breathing for this pregnant mama, yoga is a great way to keep my muscles in shape and ready to run again once the baby arrives.  Plus, it’s a great way to help prepare my body for the delivery.

 

Have I mentioned how much I love yoga? I love the way it conditions and tones my body using my own weight as resistance.  I love feeling my muscles lengthen with each stretch.  And even though my range of flexibility might be slightly restricted these days, yoga help keeps my body just a little more limber, as odd as that might sound for big belly mama-to-be.

 

While searching YouTube for prenatal yoga videos, I found this tutorial which introduces the basics found in the full length video found at www.beYOU.tv.

 

 

If you’re yearning for more mamaste yoga, you can watch the 30 minute Prenatal Yoga Vibe video here.

[Via http://deniseisrundmt.com]

Here's The Situation...

Mike "The Situation" Sorrentino

If you’re into spiky gelled hair, t-shirts with off-center sparkly designs, Ed Hardy, Jagermeister, fist pumping, GTL (gym, tan, laundry) and all things Jersey AND you’re looking for a personal trainer, then have I got a deal for you.

Mike Sorrentino, known for his rippling abs which he so boldly named “The Situation” on MTV’s finest gem of a reality show Jersey Shore, is a manager at a Gold’s Gym.

If you’re thinking, “Wait wait wait, I don’t want this idiot training me.” You may be surprised to find that The Situation seems to know his stuff.

Check out this US Weekly video where The Situation talks fitness, including:

• The importance of cardio
• Alternating days for ab work
• Avoiding Coke, salt, sweets, etc.
• And realizing that training to “peak” is different than training to maintain

[Via http://sweettater.wordpress.com]

Taylor Kitsch & Fitness: A Canadian Iron Man

Scene From Friday Night Lights

Canadian Taylor Kitsch melts a lot hearts as a fullback on NBC’s Friday Night Lights but his true athletic background is on the ice.  Born in Kelowna, British Columbia and raised in Vancouver, Kitsch is a former ice hockey player for Canadian BCHL.  He played for the Langley Hornets before a career ending knee injury.  Do you think Kitsch will be excited about the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver? We are guessing…yes. 

Fitness for Kitsch, did not stop with the injury or ending his role as an athlete on Friday Night Lights, he 28 year old never loss his devotion to fitness and health.  Before making it big, he became certified as a nutritionist and trainer.  His trade secrets to fitness is not really as secret.  Kitsch has gone on record to say, “displined eating and regular workouts.”  Moroever, he stays away from sugar and flour. 

He has graced the cover of Men’s Health and took time to discuss his support of fitness activities for kids.   Not just a man of words, Kitsch took part in the Nautica Malibu Triathlon which benefits the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

Read About fellow Canadian Ryan Reynolds in the MCCN Celebrity Fitness Section

[Via http://multiculturalcookingnetwork.wordpress.com]

Dare to Diet: Getting Fit in 2010

No matter how you slice it, diets are something most people like talking about but don’t know how to start. To overcome the pain, you need a plan thats always going to have you on your toes.

Diet and exercise have two different meanings. If I were you, I wouldn’t ask which to do first; I would do both. A good exercise routine is nothing without a smart diet plan.

Know Your Weight Loss Goals

First, consider how much you weigh right now and how much you look forward to losing. Remember to be reasonable with your body and how much it can handle.

Overweight or Obese?

According to the Mercer University School of Medicine, the difference between being overweight and obese can be defined by measuring someone’s Body Mass Index (BMI). If your BMI is over 30, you’re considered to be obese; while a BMI of over 24 is known as being overweight. In my opinion, someone obese might want to join a weight loss program where they could find the advice and support needed to be successful.

For those slightly or moderately overweight, I advise controlling portion size. Don’t eat the big plate of food that you are used to! If you’re not sure of the portion size you should be eating then try going to a dietitian. Just remember the less you eat the less calories you put into your body. You’re the only one who is able to control what goes into your body.

Exercising is another strong point of a diet plan. If you feel that stress, boredom, or television are making you eat a lot then maybe you should join a gym. Not ready to pay for the gym? You can try walking, jogging, bike riding, jumping jacks, or just do calisthenics. Try to do different exercises everyday to “confuse” the muscles. By doing one workout continuously your muscle starts getting used to the same routine over and over again. It eventually reaches a point where the muscle stops expanding. By doing different exercises, you can work every muscle in the body. With doing these exercises you could manage to lose calories and body fat. Plus, they can be done for free.

To be successful, it helps to understand why you want to lose weight. So before you begin a weight loss plan, ask yourself:

1. Am I giving myself realistic weight loss goals?

2. Am I motivated?

3. Am I ready to track my progress?

4. Am I ready to focus both mentally and physically on my weight loss plan?

5. Am I really willing to eat healthier?

If you’re in the middle of a job change, family problems, or any other distractions, it might be better to resolve those issues and then focus on weight loss efforts.

Finally, be sure you’re committed to losing weight for yourself, not because someone else is pressuring you to do so. It will never happen if you’re doing it for the wrong reasons. You have to be mentally ready.

Keep these tips in mind and you should be on the road to weight loss in no time!

[Via http://thefinderz.com]

"Tough mamas: They exercise hard to fuel busy lives", on The Wenatchee World

By Mike Irwin

Friday, January 22, 2010

CASHMERE — Does your happy place include sweat, strain, sheer exhaustion and, yep, one more set of reps?

For a group of moms grunting toward high-level fitness, “happy” is relative in a 12-minute workout that pushes them far beyond housework, grocery shopping and school commutes. It’s an exercise routine, they said, that gives them the stamina and energy to be better mothers, wives and businesswomen.

“It’s fast, it’s fun, and it helps me function in everyday life,” said Jamie Ogle of Wenatchee, a 38-year-old mother of two and winter sports participant. “I’m fitter, stronger and — grrr! — can even lift the back end of a snowmobile.”

Tough mamas like Ogle work out up to four times a week at CrossFit Cashmere, the four-month-old training facility that’s signed up more than 30 fitness buffs (female and male) for its short-interval, high-intensity exercise sessions and nutritional guidance. Owners of the bare-bones gym show clients how to use their own body weight — pushups, situps, pullups, burpees — to develop core strength, increase flexibility and improve cardio function. Weights and a few rowing machines can also figure in the 12-minute mix of exercises… Read the article on “The Wenatchee World“

[Via http://sportiseverywhere.wordpress.com]

Christian Aerobics: Walk in the Spirit/Shake The Devil Off

Despite having a perfectly good gym pass, I have, in recent months, become obsessed with home workout videos. My journey into the world of working out at home has been both enlightening and amusing. Anyone with any experience in this arena knows that home work out videos range from the terrible to the impossible, with low production qualities, akward hosts, and terrible sets in abundance.

Every once in a whilel though, a gem appears, something that is both do-able and tolerable, something that you actually want to groove to and do again and again. I’m not sure what the magic formula is, some of my favorites are very low budget and some feature ‘celebrity’ hosts.

It is with this in mind that I present to you this video (found via Womanist Musings) that I have watched twice but not worked out to yet, and am totally amused by. The thing is, despite this being a part of the Christian Kistch machine, the world of ‘profitable Christianity’ endorsed by many evanglicals and typically abhorred by myself, I really kind of love this. Something about the cheesy music, the terrible co-ordination of the dude on the right, and the sweat pouring down off of the host’s bald head has me totally psyched to ‘Dance like David Danced’ and ‘Stomp Satan Down’ and do the ‘Sanctified Slide’.

I clicked the link through to youtube and it appears that the host has an entire channel of Gospel Groove Aerobics to promote an upcoming workout video. I love this and will totally be digging into this over the course of the next week or so. I’ll keep you posted. You better believe I’ll be grooving my dorky ass off, ‘Reaching up to God’ and ‘Giving Him Praise’.

[Via http://fffedup.wordpress.com]

Step. *wince* Step. *wince*

OUCH.

So, WHN (I am now resolved to quit calling that one guy I married “dear husband” because it sounds corny and cheesy and sometimes, I want to kill him. So I will now refer to him as “what’s-his-name.” It makes me giggle.) and I went on a hike this past Sunday in order to fulfil a resolution to Do More Things Together. We went down to a place we both played as kids and, coincidentally, where WHN first “officially” asked me to be his girlfriend.

The thing is, when WHN hikes, he HIKES. This is no casual meander through the woods, stopping occasionally to admire the view. He sets his pace, squares his shoulders, and GOES. I am left to keep up with him (to be fair, he will slow down if I ask him to), stopping every so often to snap a picture and then scurrying to catch up with him. The day was perfect – a bit cool and overcast but a nice temperature. We had a backpack with a Camelbak in it, our first aid kit, some Luna bars and my camera. I started out optimistic and cheerful.

We hiked a couple of miles to the Nature Center, checked it out, hiked around it a bit and then back to our car. All in all it was about 5 miles. At about mile 4 I started making little “ouch” noises, as the muscle on my right inner thigh had decided that it wanted to pull everytime I took a step. I stayed cheerful and smiling, though, and tried to enjoy the beauty and nature around me. After a while the “ouch” noises seemed to be getting progressively louder, and it was making WHN look at me worriedly, which just made me giggle.

I was tiring quickly, but we soon reached our car and the wonderful salvation of LUNCH. Since I wasn’t “technically” on the wagon, we dined on delicious cheese bread turkey sandwiches, BBQ potato chips, root beer and chocolate chip cookies.

After lunch we enthusiastically (my enthusiasm was mostly faked by this point, but he was having so much fun that I didn’t want to disappoint him) headed for another 4-mile trail. We parked the car, loaded up, and headed into the woods at where we THOUGHT the trail head was…only to discover a tiny, non-marked trail that quickly ended in water. So we headed back to the car. On the way out I spotted the REAL trail head. So we parked the car, loaded up, and headed into the woods, only to discover a big, well-marked trail that quickly ended in water. It was cold enough to make us shudder at the thought of hiking 4 miles with wet feet. So we headed back to the car. Deja vu, anyone?

We wound up doing a beautiful hike around a lake on a trail that was paved and lined with benches. WHN told me that the trail was 1.8 miles and we started cheerfully off. After about 20 minutes we still weren’t even halfway around the lake and my inner thigh muscle had started to protest in earnest. But it was beautiful outside and we were spending Quality Time, so on we hiked!My “ouch” noises got progressively louder and more pronounced, and that made him look worriedly at me, and that made me giggle, so by the time we were through I was possibly slightly hysterical.  After what seemed like hours, we finally walked (or hobbled in my case) back to the car, only to discover that the trail was actually 2.8 miles long. Oh, well!

I may sound complain-y, but in truth I had a wonderful day. We hiked close to nine miles in one day, and I was both amazed and proud of myself.

However, the next day, and still a bit today, my calf muscles are indeed protesting the unaccustomed abuse I inflicted on them. Hence the stepping and wincing bit.

Tonight I am grilling some steaks and serving them up with whole grain brown and wild rice and steamed, non-seasoned veggies. And, of course, watch the Biggest Loser! And tomorrow I am going on my first offical Run of my 10k training!

Today for lunch, I ate my first baby carrot in a few months and it reminded me of how healthily I was eating all summer, and how good it felt. As I crunched into the carrot, I felt like I was home again. And I was happy to be there.

[Via http://oneyeartosavemymarriage.wordpress.com]

101%!

I needed to be at 66% of my £3k sponsorship target during the week, and a flurry of donations from friends on twitter, along with a corporate sponsorship from Pets At Home got me there.

A major spurt to break through my ultimately “required” target came courtesy of a £1000 donation from my company Atlas Elektronik UK. I’ll collect their cheque this week, as I’ve been off work due to my dad’s death and all the funeral arrangements across two countries that’s been going on since Christmas Day. So now all the costs of the trip have been covered, and at least £1k is going straight to Dogs Trust. Anything extra I raise between now and mid March will go straight into their pot as well.

I’ve relisted my wedding dress on ebay here with 25% going to Dogs Trust. Have only listed as a Buy It Now or best offer since last time the bids didn’t even make it above the postage costs let alone the reserve price.  I’m definitely ready to let the dress go now Universe, thanks, but lets make it for a reasonable price please? By the way, if you happen to put this on your watch list out of curiosity, could you let me know so I don’t get too excited about the vast number of “watchers”?

With just under 4 weeks until we fly out to Sweden, I’d better get cracking on the fitness challenge ahead, that’s slipped considerably over the last couple of months, so must get back on track so I can run alongside those dogs happily

Another huge thank you to everyone for helping me reach my target so quickly.

[Via http://dougggie.wordpress.com]

What is fitness?

Today the most common picture of fitness is seen in a gym where about half the guests are concerned with watching their efforts in the mirrors and the other half try is trying to take their minds of what they are actually there for, by watching a programme on one of the numerous TV´s. This idea of being fit is linked to appearance rather than performance.

How is this? The view held in these centers is one of isolation and division. Isolation of muscle groups and division of work into aerobic and anaerobic activity. When speaking of fitness it is crucial to understand and acknowledge that there is a direct correlation between discomfort and outcome.

At Rooftop Gym we are dedicated to true fitness. To us Crossfit is a representation of true fitness. This is achieved by focusing on functional movements executed at high intensity. We understand functional movements as movements performed in the gym that transfers directly to everyday situations. The squat is one such movement. We teach this and eight other functional movements that together form the foundations for true fitness. In our gym there are no mirrors, no televisions just as there is no lounge area. Instead you will find barbells and weightdiscs, a pull-up bar, gymnastic rings, a wooden boxes and bags filled with sand. Through a thorough instruction you will find out why these simple instruments are far superior to any machines.

[Via http://rooftopgym.wordpress.com]

Zing!

I did it.  I’m the new owner of a Kona Zing.  I picked it up early this afternoon.  I transferred the under the seat bag from the Raleigh in case of a flat, donned my Under Armour cold weather compression shirt and headed out in about 50 degrees to try out the bike.  Within a few miles, I noticed that the seat height isn’t quite right and a few gears didn’t want to shift easily.  I took it to the shop, got the adjustments made, and everything is working right.

This is a shorter wheelbase than the Raleigh (about 4-5 inches shorter).  The ride is smooth and comfortable.

This was the first time I ever rode with a  clipless pedal system.  I had Miche pedals put on, and I have a pair of Gaerne shoes.  I lightened the tension needed to free my foot, and practiced a few times on the front porch.  At the very first intersection, I successfully disengaged from the pedal, but when I put my foot down, it slid.  That is going to take some getting used to.  I’m going to have to learn the intricacies of the gears too.

Today’s ride was a total of 8 miles in about 40 minutes (off and on because I was using Runkeeper to record the distance … I really rode faster than that).  After the ride, I installed the Cateye Velo 8 on this bike and I’m ready for more accurate recording of speed and distance.

Rain is in the forecast for tomorrow, and I have a long day with no time to ride.  I’m looking forward to some quality time in the saddle on Monday, a day off and temps in the mid 40s.

[Via http://spinningtoacentury.wordpress.com]

Latest Topic: Arnold Schwarzenegger's Workout Routine.

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Workout Routine According To Muscle Mag October 1991 Edition.

Arnold Says He Stuck To This Workout Routine Throughout His Mr. Olympia Career.

This Routine Is A Real Old School Classic Workout Routine.

Remember Before Starting Any Workout Routine, Please Consult A Doctor.

Monday, Wednesday, Friday:

Chest:

Bench press – 5 sets, 6-10 reps

Flat bench flies – 5 sets, 6-10 reps

Incline bench press – 6 sets, 6-10 reps

Cable crossovers – 6 sets, 10-12 reps

Dips – 5 sets, to failure

Dumbbell pullovers – 5 sets, 10-12 reps

Back:

Front wide-grip chin-ups – 6 sets, to failure

T-bar rows – 5 sets, 6-10 reps

Seated pulley rows – 6 sets, 6-10 reps

One-arm dumbbell rows – 5 sets, 6-10 reps

Straight-leg deadlifts – 6 sets, 15 reps

Legs:

Squats – 6 sets, 8-12 reps

Leg presses – 6 sets, 8-12 reps

Leg extensions – 6 sets, 12-15 reps

Leg curls – 6 sets, 10-12 reps

Barbell lunges – 5 sets, 15 reps

Calves:

Standing calf raises -10 sets, 10 reps

Seated calf raises – 8 sets, 15 reps

One-legged calf raises (holding dumbbells) – 6 sets,12 reps

Forearms:

Wrist curls (forearms on knees) – 4 sets, 10 reps

Reverse barbell curls – 4 sets, 8 reps

Wright roller machine – to failure

Abs:

Nonstop instinct training for 30 minutes.

Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday:

Biceps:

Barbell curls – 6 sets, 6-10 reps

Seated dumbbell curls – 6 sets, 6-10 reps

Dumbbell concentration curls – 6 sets, 6-10 reps

Triceps:

Close-grip bench presses (for the all three heads) – 6 sets, 6-10 reps

Pushdowns (exterior head) – 6 sets, 6-10 reps

Barbell French presses (interior head) – 6 sets, 6-10 reps

One-arm dumbbell triceps extensions (exterior head) – 6 sets, 6-10 reps

Shoulders:

Seated barbell presses – 6 sets, 6-10 reps

Lateral raises (standing) – 6 sets, 6-10 reps

Rear-delt lateral raises – 5 sets, 6-10 reps

Cable lateral raises – 5 sets, 10-12 reps

Calves:

Standing calf raises -10 sets, 10 reps

Seated calf raises – 8 sets, 15 reps

One-legged calf raises (holding dumbbells) – 6 sets,12 reps

Forearms:

Wrist curls (forearms on knees) – 4 sets, 10 reps

Reverse barbell curls – 4 sets, 8 reps

Wright roller machine – to failure

Abs:

Nonstop instinct training for 30 minutes.

[Via http://ajinkyajoshi.wordpress.com]

Hill Sickness

Since yesterday’s success in Barton Creek-Lost Creek I’ve had an itch to try some more hills.  Been working on some interesting training routes.  Some are short routes that will allow “repeats.”  Some are medium loops from home that incorporate sadistic hills.

I will build my hill strength using these small routes and then begin to piece them together for longer rides.  Tour das Hugel here I come.

If you have some other hill routes drop me a note.

Jester Hill

Mesa-Far West

City Park-River Place

Home-City Park-620-Home loop

Home-360-Barton-Lost Creek-Home loop

[Via http://oldguy2wheels.wordpress.com]

Mental Toughness

Remember the story of the little engine that could? I think I can, I think I can…

That mantra is not only for locomotives. Our bodies and minds work in the same way, in that with determination and mental toughness, our bodies are capable of a lot. Think you’ll never be able to run a marathon? I can pretty much guarantee you won’t. But make up your mind that you can do it, and chances are you’re going to finish.

The second episode of Biggest Loser (Season 9) is on tonight, and I thought it would be appropriate to include this quote on mental toughness from one of the contestants, Tongan cousin Koli Palu:

“As a coach, I know our bodies are amazing things,” said Koli. “That we don’t know the capablities of our bodies. I need my football team to know that you can go that extra step. This is more of a mental game, a mental toughness. As long as you push yourself, the physical part will be there.”

Ever since I ran my first (and only so far) marathon two years ago, I’ve been on the mental toughness bandwagon. I started the race injured, but managed to finish despite my body begging me to call it quits. I’ll always have that, and now it inspires me to get through any other discomforts.

And since I visited San Diego on a business trip in October, where the Navy SEALS train, that’s been reinforced. I signed up for a NAVYSEALS.com e-newsletter, where mental toughness is the ongoing theme. The message of one email was that mental toughness means five things: discipline, clear thinking under stress, calmness amidst chaos, suffering in silence, and familiarity with discomfort. Bottom line: “Quitting is not an option for the mentally tough.”

This keeps me going when I’m feeling whiny and puny and sorry for myself. There are soldiers who put their bodies through unimaginable things. There are people who survive cancer treatments or lost limbs and go on to complete an Ironman. All I did was sit in my office all day and I’m whining about a workout being too hard? Those people are in human bodies, just like me. The only thing that makes them capable of doing more is that mental toughness…they think they can. And they will not quit.

- albledsoe

[Via http://fittobetried.wordpress.com]

Been a long weekend with Michelle's Surprise Party but here are the next two tips!

Jan. 9, 2010 – Convenience

We live in a society that prides itself on being faster than average…internet speeds are increasing, speed limits are creeping up to breakneck speeds, and we want our food ready at the push of a button. We want it in an instant because we have too much to do and not enough day to do it all in. We want it all and we want it NOW! Better yet, give it to me yesterday!

But in our “Fast-food” society, we forget that our bodies don’t operate that way. Just because our minds have lost the notion of delayed gratification doesn’t mean that our bodies have evolved to that point yet. Our bodies take time to make changes and convenience doesn’t really factor well into that equation.

Sure we’d like it to be convenient but big changes, remarkable and lasting changes, the changes that make life worth living are rarely convenient. Don’t believe me? Ask anyone who didn’t plan a pregnancy, or when they would fall in love and marry. Sometimes the best things in life take big sacrifices of your time, effort and of yourself. But I doubt you’ll regret them when you are looking back from success.

Jan. 10, 2010 – What’s so wrong with “white”?

“Whole wheat” this, “whole grain” that, “100% Stone Ground”, “Enriched”, what the heck does it all mean? Can’t someone just tell me what to eat?

The media and food companies aren’t out to be your friend and help you. They are out for one thing – to sell. Even my father, an intelligent man, tried to convince me that “Iron Kids Bread” is good for you because it has iron. I had to set him straight…let me help clarify this a bit for you.

Whole wheat means the product is at least 51% whole wheat. That’s not REALLY whole wheat but better than “enriched” which means it’s been highly processed, stripped of all its nutrients and should be avoided like the plague, even if it DOES say “wheat”. What you should be looking for is “100% stone ground,” “100% whole grain,” or the next best choice, “whole wheat.”

Anything “white” including white rice, flours, breads, pastas, etc will raise blood sugar since your body will metabolize it like table sugar. You’ll be hungry again (and eating again) within 20 minutes. Any of the latter will insure that you are getting fiber to fill you up, lower “bad” cholesterol and keep your blood sugars on an even keel, maintaining your new, healthy lifestyle.

[Via http://getfitwithtina.wordpress.com]

Today Is The Day

Today is the day of a new beginning.  Why did I pick today to start?  Well honestly, I thought I started six days ago but last minute dinners out with friends going back to school kind of destoryed that ambition.  My next goal date was tomorrow… a Sunday, the beginning of a new week.  It would make a lot more sense than Saturday, especially since I’m probably going out with friends and planning to enjoy my night.  So why did I start today?  Well honestly, I woke up this morning and had to be at work by 8am.  As I was walking out at the last minute, (something I am very well known for), I realized I was a little hungry.  I grabbed two bottles of water, a bowl, and a packet of my healthy oatmeal that I had not yet tried even though I bought it over a week ago.  ”This will have to do,” I thought.  And so it began. You probably are wondering what I am even talking about when I say “the beginning.”  I mean the beginning of my… *cringe* diet.  I hate the word diet.  It’s probably one of the most disgusting, horrid words in the English language.  So I don’t want to call this a diet but instead, the new beginning to how I am going to live the rest of my life – healthy.  Now, don’t get me wrong.  I am not some organic eating size 0 health freak, oh no.  In fact, that is the complete opposite of what I am and what I desire to become.  I am a twenty year old female who has been overweight all of her life.  My family has a history of high blood pressure and a lot of related heart diseases.  I do not want this to be me.  I’ve started my “diet” a billion times before… some even very successfully but I always find some excuse to stop.  But not anymore.  I am so SICK of feeling the way I feel and looking the way I look.  I’m sick of never having any clothing.  I’m sick of telling someone I can’t go to a party because I have nothing to wear or can’t stand what I see in the mirror.  I’m sick of emotionally eating which makes me gain weight which just stresses me out more and causes me to pig out.  It’s all a vicious, vicious cycle and I’ve been living it for far too long. My cousin’s fiance (who is one of my best friends) and my cousin finally set a wedding date: September 10th, 2011.  It is going to be an absolutely BEAUTIFUL wedding and I already picked out the dress I want to wear and the hell if I’m going to buy it in plus size (or ever wear plus size again!).  This is my goal date… not a final date in any way.  I’m no going to go back to my old habits after this wedding, but I am going to look and feel DAMN GOOD at it.  I don’t really know right now how much weight I can lose in that amount of time until I start losing, and then I can make a reasonable estimate/goal.  Until then, I just am setting the date, firmly in stone. THE BATTLE PLAN: My plan is simple.  I want to lose over 100 pounds.  I don’t really have an IDEAL weight I guess.  I would like to say 130 but I hope to build muscle and be very toned.  I remember my PE teacher in 7th grade who was fit and beautiful said she weighed over 150 pounds and I know it was because of the muscle, so that is a perfect goal too!  I don’t want to just be thin, I want to be fit and there is a very fine difference. STRATEGY: 1) Exercise daily.  I will FORCE myself to.  I know they say you can excerise like three times a week but I don’t want to settle myself to that because I know I can do it daily (except in cases of travel, etc. etc.)  When I can’t find the time, I plan to keep moving!  My job is very physically demanding and I’m glad because it keeps me moving.  I walk and lift heavy objects and although cannot replace exercise, it is a good substitute when I can’t do my routine workout (of which I will be developing here in the next couple days).  As far as that goes, I want to alternate workouts because my cousin’s fiance’s trainer said that is what is best for you.  Burn more calories than you take in… simple. 2) Eat right.  No, I am not going to become a health freak but I do want to try to cut and count calories (maybe even a few weeks of carb cutting because it will take the weight off FAST and that really makes you want to keep working hard!)  I am not going to cut bad food completely, it is okay to splurge once in awhile.  I plan to allow myself one splurge day ONLY and be very strict about that because I haven’t in the past.  I don’t want to just eat foods that say “fat free” and etc. though, I want to eat very healthy for me.  Nuts, meat, fruit, vegetables, yogurt… all the foods that are GOOD for you.  I also want to drink more water. 3) Blog about it.  It is so hard to keep a “diet <-eeeeek!” going, especially when you are going at it alone.  I have already lined up a few work-out buddies which will make it more fun, but that is not quite enough.  I feel like if I have to report to this blog and publicize what I do, I will be more motivated to not stray from my plan and let myself down!  All it will take is ten minutes everyday to report my progress.  This will also help me to create menus, exercise plans, goals, and other related information and make it easily accessible for me and everyone else.  That’s another thing.  I hope to gain followers!  I know there are a lot of people out there struggling to lose weight like me, so I truly hope to be an inspiration to someone!  There is power in numbers and if you can motivate each other to keep working, it will be easier for you to keep trying as well.  There’s nothing I’d love more than to create/join a circle of people who are starting a new beginning so feel free to contact me if you are doing so!  I thought about joining a weight watchers group or something but I am just a poor twenty year old! THE RESULT: I will no longer look in the mirror and say, “Well, this is as good as it’s gonna get.”  I will feel better about myself.  I will be healthy.  I will be able to sleep better, work harder, and play longer.  I will be able to find a pair of jeans and a bra that fit in the stores – not by special order.  I will never buy a plus size item again.  I will donate all of my “big” clothes to the Salvation Army as SOON as I lose the weight so I know there is nothing to fall on, no going back.  I will never feel bad about eating in front of ANYBODY.  I will wear a bikini at the beach and not be ashamed to walk from my beach chair to the ocean.  And I will, ABSOLUTELY will wear this dress to the wedding: Current Weight: Loss/Gain: n/a Breakfast: Whole Grain Cranberry Oatmeal ( fat, calories) Lunch: Sheetz Grilled Chicken Salad from the Eat Schmart Menu (5g fat, 263 cal), NAKED Cherry Pomegranate Power Drink (complete with 15 cherries, 1 pomegranate, 1 1/2 apples, 1/3 a banana, and 33 red grapes – 0g fat, 280 cal) Dinner: Zucchini & Squash sautéed in wheat pasta & light olive oil, lightly battered halibut, 2 low fat cornbread muffins. Snacks: One cup of light orange juice. Water Intake: Two Bottles - Jessie

[Via http://en.wordpress.com]

How To Pick The Right Trainer

Hey there, hope everything is going great for you. Lets cut to the chase. As I posted the other day in my opinion if you really want to get into shape you should find a good to great trainer. The problem is that there are a lot of trainers out there all claiming to be good or even great. So how do you tell the good ones from the bad ones.

First of all, you not only want a good trainer but one that fits well with you. So you need to find the trainer that has the following attributes:

1. Communication – The good to great trainers are excellent communicators. They are able to explain what they are doing and why in simple English. So if you find a trainer that can’t explain to you what and why he or she is having you do something where you understand it run away quick!

2. Compatibility – When you looking for a trainer you want to make sure you like them and trust them. You also want to make sure that they fit the style that is going to help keep you going. I saw a ad recently where a lady was looking for a trainer that was like a drill instructor. She said she needed someone that would be hard and demanding. So for her Mr. Nice Guy trainer would not do her any good no matter how good he is.

In my boot camp classes we have a lot of fun. I have in my opinion some of the best clients a trainer can ask for. We laugh a lot. So if your a stick in the mud, my boot camps would not be for you. Remember one style does not fit all. Make sure the training style fits you.

3. Successful Track Record – When looking for a trainer you are looking for someone who is going to give you results so make sure they have the ability to get results with the clients. Read all the testimonials that they have and if you get a chance talk to their clients and see what they have to say. If the trainer has no testimonials find someone else. You don’t want or need to be his guinea pig.

Once you find your trainer, get started immediately. Also go in and work as hard as you can and be very attentive to his instruction. Remember trainers are human too. The more a good trainer knows you want to reach your goals the more he or she is going to put their energy toward you. They are looking for success stories, you could be one of them, a definite win-win situation.

I hope this helps get you moving toward winning your Fitness Game.

Next time, I will be talking to you about boot camps versus one on one personal training. It is definitely going to be a interesting post.

Until then stay safe and be blessed!!!

[Via http://coachtu.wordpress.com]

Being Present

You may have noticed a lack of blogging on what most would think is a personal trainer’s sure-fire topic: New Year’s Resolutions. This is because I’m working hard every day, not just in January, at being present with what I am doing. This approach manifests itself in various ways as I try to live a fit life.

One way I was present with myself was by listening to an inner voice that told me I wasn’t yet done with my ultramarathon training. Despite being pleased with my achievement of running a 50K on trail in December, I knew that I could go faster. I really wanted to push myself, and by voicing that desire– and the belief that I was trained well enough to run much faster– my dad told me that there was a 50K in Dallas last Sunday.

Once again, I piled the family into the car and hit the road. On Sunday morning, my dad and I gathered with 10-12 other runners at White Rock Lake’s Big Thicket cabin to begin the Recover From The Holidays 50K. We set out with a plan to run for 5 minutes and walk for 2 minutes, and that’s what we stuck to (more or less) the entire way. Five hours and twenty-one minutes later, we finished. That’s 78 minutes faster than the 50K we did just three weeks before. Being present, listening to my thoughts, and acting on them really paid off!

Another way I’m being present in my fitness efforts is to realize that, just like in other parts of my life, when I look good, I feel good. I hadn’t been giving this too much credence lately, but when Michelle Rodriguez asked me to contribute to her Well-Styled blog, I was again confronted with that truism. I’m now committed to revamping my workout wardrobe to wear items that a) fit, b) are appropriate for the activity, and c) wouldn’t embarass my mother if she knew I was wearing them out of the house. If you’re in need of workout wear but don’t know where to start, Michelle is leading a guided field trip at Title Nine later this month. Look good, feel good, want to be healthier, take better care of yourself, look even better!

Many of my workouts are done with others, and I enjoy the social interactions I have while exercising. While I don’t want to eliminate those workouts completely, I want to return to doing a few workouts a week by myself. I want to enjoy the simplicity and primal nature of moving my body. I want to listen to my body as it works. I want to acknowledge my thoughts as I have them. I can do a better job of being present if I can focus only on myself.

I am also working to be present when I eat. No more eating in the car or while wandering around the house. I want to sit down, chew, and taste. I want to be grateful for the food I have available and the ways in which it nourishes my body. All too often, even when eating with the family, I’m too focused on other things to really be mindful of the food I’m consuming.

Being present is an ongoing challenge for me. But I believe it is a key to wellness, as it requires me to slow down and give thanks. Doing so can only be beneficial.

Good health and great happiness to you.

[Via http://onbalance.wordpress.com]

A Little About Me

  New to the blogging world but I have a feeling I am really going to enjoy this. Currently I am a part time student working on a Marketing degree as well as Business Management. My first class was very different, I forgot how old I was but soon felt young again lol. Might be what has keeps me going even when it gets tough. Who wouldn’t love turning back the clock a couple decades? It has been a challenging, fun, and a rewarding experience for me.

  What else do I do? Well I have 2 children one a sophomore in High School and one in Elementary School. I am also a Distributer of Juice Plus, for more information on that click on the link to the right or send me a message and I will be happy to talk with you.  I have also been an Avon Ind. Sales Rep for 3 years next month.

What are my interests?

  I love  cooking and baking especially around the holidays. I love music almost any kind. It’s not uncommon to find me in the kitchen with the music cranked and me, well a little singing and dancing but you will never catch me Look for recipes and photos later on!

  Summer time is my favorite season of the year because it gets me out of the house and enjoying the sunshine. Camping, fishing, swimming (just NOT with the fishes) going to the beach and the river and just being outdoors I love it! We usually camp locally but I think it is time to venture a little farther and change the scenery. 

  When I have a little down time and it’s nice and quiet I love to read and have been known to read a book in a day or two, five if it’s a large book. My other interests are photography, sewing, making jewelry, watching movies old and new. I really don’t watch too much Television but when I do these are the shows that I will watch, House M.d., Diners Drive-Ins and Dives, First 48 Hours, Forensic Files, Paula Dean, Ghost Hunters.

Favorite Quote: The Journey of A Thousand Miles Begins With a Single Step- (Lao Tzu)

In the past 6 months I have met a lot of great people. Fun, intelligent, caring people and I look forward to meeting many, many more! Please leave note and say hello.

Until next time, be safe, be healthy, and be happy

[Via http://mswilder28.wordpress.com]

want a six pack?

Many people think that these products will work. why not? because you can order them online? it looks to easy to be true?

Are you tired of stuffing yourself with suppliments that doesn’t work? Don’t just sit there! do something about it! in a matter of weeks you can get those stone-hard abs you always wanted. They will give you a book, videos and newsletters that you can follow.

You can read many reviews about their product on ther website.

Get it now! just click here

[Via http://affiliates01.wordpress.com]

Fired up!

Sort of, anyway. Did a mile on the treadmill last night. It’s a start I guess. It wasn’t as brutal as I thought it was going to be after laying off workouts as long as I have, but still, it wasn’t any party either. All in all a good positive start. I just hate the soreness part. Makes it doubly hard to get my ass up in the mornings!

I have discovered that the alarm clock that comes with the Droid phone is quite capable of waking me up without any problem whatsoever. Unlike other alarms that may take several minutes to penetrate my sleep, this on doesn’t come with that problem. Not many alarms out there can say that.

I still need to order a new scanner. I’ve been intending to do that, and simply keep forgetting. Maybe that’s something to do later this week when things calm down a bit huh? Probably a good idea if I ever want to get another comic finished!

You just gotta love giving Eagles fans hell if you’re a Cowboys fan. It comes with the territory. Not to mention since they raised HELL with us last year after the season ending beat down they gave us, I don’t feel very bad rubbing last weeks shut out in their faces just a bit. I’m hoping the Cowboys hold up their end and repeat that beating again this week to get a freakin playoff win!

I never did mention Christmas did I? Well we had a really good time! We spent the holiday at my mom’s and it was good all around We got to all get together for Christmas morning which we haven’t done in forever, and we stayed after it was all over and kinda relaxed, so that rocked as well. Gift wise I pretty much cleaned up. I got the knife I’ve been wanting, several very cool movies on DVD and blueray, and some books as well. I also scored a Barnes and Noble gift card and some money, so yeah I cleaned up. Victoria got a bunch of stuff for her scrapbooking and some accessories for her sewing machine that she got for Christmas, so all in all, we barely made it home with all the stuff in my little car!

I think I’ll watch a movie now. Yeah, it’s that kind of day.

[Via http://theopposablethumb.wordpress.com]

Keeping it simple.

I’ve got a million bits of news to share right now, but I’m gonna try to start doing shorter posts with more specific topics. In my rebellion to the traditional aim-high-and-fail new years resolution, I decided to aim super duper high and start on January 1st with my Etsy account, January 2nd with my diet, and January 3rd with my exercise regime. Since I was last here, Raw Aura and myself have parted ways, I’ve taken on more hours (again) at Goodness Me! and I have two exciting new classes planned for February and March. I have also signed to run in the Around The Bay Road Race in Hamilton at the end of March as part of a 3-person relay team, and the grueling training starts in just over 2 weeks; today I started P90X classic, and will be doing a fusion of P90X and race training over the next few months. I am consuming a high-raw, whole foods diet, with special attention to before-and-after activity nutrition (which I plan to talk about in more depth later this week…). Something else I hope to discuss over the next week or two is some very strange but effective, and SIMPLE things I have changed in my oral hygiene and skin care routine… with quick and amazing results.

Tomorrow, let’s talk goal setting. If you haven’t done it yet, get on the wagon. Writing your goals down on paper in your messy and beautifully unique handwriting shows that you really mean it. I’m walking, running, knitting proof that writing down goals supercharges your potential for getting the things you crave in life.

Peace,

kayla

[Via http://eattherainbow.wordpress.com]

January 2010

Getting Started

We all have New Year resolutions or use the beginning of a new year to make a new start to things. I am taking a break to England for a week to catch up with relations but also to visit galleries and museums to feed my mind with inspiration for new work.

My training has started again for the triathlon season with our own club AGM coming up and Triathlon Ireland AGM on the 30th Jan. If there is one resolution you should keep it is to get fit and stay fit. It may seem like a chore but it will improve your life both physically and mentally and as time goes on it will become a fix that you need in your life. I know the icy weather does not encourage us outdoors too much at the moment but grab a skipping rope or put on some funky music and get active. If we get the snow fall we could put on the skis!!

My night classes will be starting again by the end of the month and this time I will also run a morning course. If anyone is interested get in contact and I will put your name down as places are limited.

[Via http://crannmorpottery.wordpress.com]

2010 resolution: Fitness!

Fitness!

Of course, resolutions are made to be broken. But I did pretty good last year with my resolution of “intention.” My goal in 2009 was to live with intention. It’s an easy one word resolution, but “intention” is one of those concepts that can carry so much meaning.

So after integrating “intention” into my life, I started noticing lots of things I had intended: Completing a will. Really doing a budget. Finishing some household organization projects. Sticking with exercise. Looking at these tasks, they seemed to show a degree of “fitness” in my life. Fitness where I know my wishes will be carried out. Financial fitness. Organizational fitness. Physical fitness. And spiritual fitness.

Fitness! That’s the resolution for 2010. That’s the buzzword. I think it follows intention very nicely because you can intend to lots of things. But fitness is results oriented, so now it’s about where the intention is going to take me.

Happy new year, whether you say “twenty – ten” or “two thousand ten”.

[Via http://memirandom.wordpress.com]

CHLI Check-in and The Bar Method Check-out

I had a one month follow up at CHLI the other day.  It was great to return to the Institute and the Four Seasons and visit with everyone, fill them in on my progress so far, and get back into alignment.  My only disappointment was the rainy weather – I would have liked to have taken that 40 minutes between my appointments and the Wellness Kitchen (yes, I stayed for another one – so fun and delicious!) to take a walk around the gorgeous grounds.  Oh well.  Next time.  I’m certain there will be a “next time” hopefully many times.  In fact, my first “next time” will probably be in March or April when I’ll return to have statistics done again: the Bod Pod, fasting blood sugar levels, etc.  I’ll probably take time at that point to get in a session in the workout room or in an exercise class, and I really enjoyed the benefits of the energy clearing and I may be due for a visit on that as well.

More than anything, I appreciate that the journey continues to feel manageable; my anxiety levels have not spiked since my visit (at least not beyond the range within which I can manage it and not feel the need to eat my way out of it) and I feel confident in my ability to go forward, work through discomfort, re-frame thoughts of failure or difficulty and not allow that to give me an excuse to quit.  I feel less afraid (though admittedly not fearless.  Let me tell you about the dance class i went to on Tuesday…)

Tuesday, I decided to try this exercise class at a local dance studio that incorporates elements of ballet, palates and yoga (that right there should have fired a warning in my brain.)  Its called The Bar Method.  It killed me.  Sure, I expected it to be challenging, and I was a bit nervous going in.  But the girls taking the class were all very nice and I was told it is for all levels – you could adjust to fit your level and ability.  Fine.  What I didn’t expect was that much of the difficulty came in not being able to keep up with the pace and my inability to figure out what the hell they were doing – the moves and the transitions between moves left me in the dust from the first move.  Having no idea what I was going, I would finally figure it out (with the help of the teacher or assistant) when the next move was being introduced.  Perhaps for aerobic effect the pace is supposed to say speedy.  It left me in an anxious fit of tears.  Bless their hearts, the teachers just reminded me to breathe and not once did I detect judgment from them.  And bless the hearts of the girls from the class – there was no hiding my tears in the locker room afterwards, and all of them were encouraging and gracious.  I managed to get to my car in one piece, but as soon as I was out of the parking lot, I wept, overwhelmed with feelings of inadequacy, largeness, failure, embarrassment, sadness.  And I allowed myself to cry.  My typical alternative would be to eat and be unconscious about it all.  Crying meant I was feeling the appropriate feelings and that was what I was supposed to do.

Since I had signed up for a month of unlimited classes (prior to taking my first class – brilliant, huh?)  I considered asking for money back or transferring the funds to traditional dance classes.  Having never studied ballet nor taken yogo, and struggling with the little palates I’ve done, I thought I may stand a chance at a traditional jazz dance class.  Instead, I decided I’d go to this Bar Method class as often as my schedule will let me during this unlimited-access month.  Face the discomfort, continue to try and see if I can get better or more comfortable or (dare I say?) enjoy it.  The outcome matters less to me than the month long effort to continue to try (though I would really appreciate it if it does get easier and more enjoyable….)

[Via http://journalposts.wordpress.com]