Remember when I said last that the upcoming semester was going to be a hellish one? I was correct.
It was easily the toughest and most demanding semester, but I walked out of there with 3 A's and a solid B (in anatomy none the less).
I had a hard time keeping up with diet and my exericse routine, I pretty much had the mentality of "I'll get there when I get there", I still managed at least 3 days a week though. But my progress has stalled, significantly. I knew this was going to happen, but I guess I didn't realize how hard things were going to get.
Lately, I've been playing around with different types of training to see what I like and how I respond. I've dabbled in CrossFit which I do love but it's not something I'd like to take on full time. Recently, I've discovered how much I absolutely love olympic lifting. I've started with the basic movements (i.e. snatch, cleans..etc), my body responds really well to movements like that in terms of my overall development. However, I don't think it's getting me leaner...if anything it's giving me thicker muscles (not complaining, just still too much body fat is covering them!) And some areas are lagging. My upper back, shoulders and legs are fairly strong...it's getting the rest to catch up.
So, which leads me to think I might have some results if I did a split again with high reps/lower weight. It's been almost a year since I've done a split body routine, maybe my muscles just need something different. Plus, I've never done a split body since I actually sorta know what I'm doing now. I'm interested to see how my body responds...
Also, I plan on starting a carb cycle. Nothing overly crazy since I have blood sugar issues now since losing weight, I noticed though they start getting whacky if I lack complex carbs. It's a work in progress for sure, as anyone in the game knows. I just gotta stop making excuses and get even more consistent than what I have been doing. Clean up my diet even more, I've already cut out my Splenda which was torture at first...but not so bad now.
Bought a giant dry erase board to monitor my stats, and calipers now that I'm much more concerned with losing ACTUAL fat. I figure this dry erase board will help me stay focused by looking at the thing every morning. It's easy to disregard tracking online, at least for me.
I've also canceled my membership at Planet Fitness, I had about had it after I was lunked for deadlifting. I guess making clinking sounds with plates is considered dropping them *shrug*. I'm at Bally's now, which is alright...
Not sure how I feel about it...the setup is weird. Too many machines for my taste, but at least they have like 6 fuckin bench stations and 2 power racks..AND...I noticed in the corner BUMPER PLATES!! I never noticed them during my tour, but my eyes lit up when I saw them. Not very many adjustable benches or EZ curl bars :( It's nice to be at a gym where I see powerlifters and bodybuilders. Granted, I stick out like a sore thumb and I feel a little uncomfortable but I'm giving it more time. The weight room has a very gritty, old school feel to it which I'm not quite used to. I have to keep in mind the regulars probably think I'm a New Years Resolutioner. But even so, fuck what people think.
But now it's time to really evaluate my goals for 2011!
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Making up for lost times.
So...I decided to take a break from studying to update this thing.
Where the heck was I last, other than having to add in like 10 freakin' workout logs?!
I started school on the 7th. Doing another semester at CCRI since I switched majors and it set me back another year (joy).
I'm taking
Human Anatomy
Human Sexuality
Intro to Computers
Business Writing
Business Writing, I absolutely love my professor. She's easily one of the most motivating teachers I've ever had, and doesn't tolerate nonsense (which is a nice change, too many professors these days let students run the show).
Human Sexuality is....going...to be...interesting to say the least. We basically talk about doing it for 2 and half hours. Mostly all women, part of me feels sorry for the three guys that are in the class.
Human Anatomy is stressing me the fuck out, and it's only been one week. It's extremely difficult to keep up with the massive amounts of information. I'm trying so HARD, but my anxiety about "what if I fail" keeps getting at me. The people in my bench have taken it before, which helps...a lot. They've been super helpful to me so far. But, I won't front...I'm absolutely terrified I won't make it through. My plan is to attack my workouts like I'm in a lab...and hope it helps. (On a good note: I did learn like 2 things already that are going to help me with my workouts)
I've yet to take the computer course, which starts next Monday. Can't report back on that one yet.
I haven't worked out as much lately, just because I'm getting used to a new schedule...my eating habits haven't been the "best" either. Not like I'm eating like crap, but I've been forgetting to eat sometimes...and then my stomach awkwardly grumbles in the middle of class during a silent period.
I expected this though, it's gonna take me a good 2 weeks to get my schedule down. Just gotta stop over thinking, otherwise I'm going to have a hellish semester.
Missing workout logs to come (I can tell you I graduated to 45 plates on my squats though, YES!)
Where the heck was I last, other than having to add in like 10 freakin' workout logs?!
I started school on the 7th. Doing another semester at CCRI since I switched majors and it set me back another year (joy).
I'm taking
Human Anatomy
Human Sexuality
Intro to Computers
Business Writing
Business Writing, I absolutely love my professor. She's easily one of the most motivating teachers I've ever had, and doesn't tolerate nonsense (which is a nice change, too many professors these days let students run the show).
Human Sexuality is....going...to be...interesting to say the least. We basically talk about doing it for 2 and half hours. Mostly all women, part of me feels sorry for the three guys that are in the class.
Human Anatomy is stressing me the fuck out, and it's only been one week. It's extremely difficult to keep up with the massive amounts of information. I'm trying so HARD, but my anxiety about "what if I fail" keeps getting at me. The people in my bench have taken it before, which helps...a lot. They've been super helpful to me so far. But, I won't front...I'm absolutely terrified I won't make it through. My plan is to attack my workouts like I'm in a lab...and hope it helps. (On a good note: I did learn like 2 things already that are going to help me with my workouts)
I've yet to take the computer course, which starts next Monday. Can't report back on that one yet.
I haven't worked out as much lately, just because I'm getting used to a new schedule...my eating habits haven't been the "best" either. Not like I'm eating like crap, but I've been forgetting to eat sometimes...and then my stomach awkwardly grumbles in the middle of class during a silent period.
I expected this though, it's gonna take me a good 2 weeks to get my schedule down. Just gotta stop over thinking, otherwise I'm going to have a hellish semester.
Missing workout logs to come (I can tell you I graduated to 45 plates on my squats though, YES!)
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Bragging rights!!!!
Today I went to a local track to get in some sprints. The sun was out and I wanted to get reacquainted with it since it's been gone for four days.
I got in 6 sprints, halfway around the track...I felt kind of slow, but I was big time distracted by ignorant parents who fail to watch their kids.
I digress.
I found a sturdy little tree...looked up at and thought to myself..
"Hmm, I wonder if I can manage a few underhand pull ups..."
I DID THREE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Granted, I did have to give myself a jump to for a little momentum....and my arms couldn't quite reach the brand, but I did it...and I'm super proud.
A year ago that wouldn't have even been a thought in my mind!
I got in 6 sprints, halfway around the track...I felt kind of slow, but I was big time distracted by ignorant parents who fail to watch their kids.
I digress.
I found a sturdy little tree...looked up at and thought to myself..
"Hmm, I wonder if I can manage a few underhand pull ups..."
I DID THREE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Granted, I did have to give myself a jump to for a little momentum....and my arms couldn't quite reach the brand, but I did it...and I'm super proud.
A year ago that wouldn't have even been a thought in my mind!
Day 3 of the macro change.
-Feeling A LOT better...no headache in the morning. Still having random dizzy spells but not nearly as often or as long. My vision isn't shitting out of me when I them either.
However, since I've been eating grain again...it triggers that addiction I once had to bread, pasta, cereal...what have you. Even if it is cleaner, higher quality grain.
My brain still sees it the same.
But to be fair, I do have my period....so hormonal changes should be factored in. Hell, I had vivid dreams about donuts last night. Wtf?
I think it's gonna take a while for me to figure out if I regularly want to keep grain in my diet. :-/
However, since I've been eating grain again...it triggers that addiction I once had to bread, pasta, cereal...what have you. Even if it is cleaner, higher quality grain.
My brain still sees it the same.
But to be fair, I do have my period....so hormonal changes should be factored in. Hell, I had vivid dreams about donuts last night. Wtf?
I think it's gonna take a while for me to figure out if I regularly want to keep grain in my diet. :-/
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Doing what's best for my body...
As you know...at the end of May I took up the Primal Blueprint eating plan and started getting into heavy lifting.
Eliminating grains made me feel FANTASTIC. At least temporarily...
For the last 6 weeks I've been experiencing insane dizzy spells, most of them were happening at night. One night, while I went to make something to eat I totally fainted in the middle of my kitchen floor. I had absolutely no memory of what happened. Needless to say, it terrified me.
The following day, I visited the doctor who chalked it up to dehydration. Okay, easy fix. Drink more water.
So I did that, the dizzy spells still kept going on.
Then I started to wonder if it was the weed that I smoke at night. Perhaps it was giving me tiny anxiety attacks. So, I stopped that for a while...
Dizzy spells still continued to creep on me.
Then my symptoms got worse. I was getting dizzy in the daytime and waking up with SPLITTING headaches. My head literally felt like it weighed 100 pounds.
I brought this to the LS forums because I was petrified of what was going on. This needed to be taken care of before school started, otherwise studying would have been impossible.
It was then that I realized my diet completely lagged complex carbohydrates for almost four months...and I'm trying a new macro split for the next week to see how I feel.
Before I was doing 45/30/25 (F/P/C) and now I'm doing a more balanced split...higher protein, higher carb, lower fat. My split isn't where I want to be just yet, since that takes good practice to get the hang of it.
I ate sweet potato last night for dinner, and steel cut oats pre workout (which I wasn't a huge fan, I still prefer the simple carbs pre-workout). I'm also making it a point to eat REAL food post workout after my whey shake...even if it means forcing it down my throat.
I'm feeling a lot better in just a matter of 2 days. My head doesn't feel heavy, I feel more focused and I'm a lot less dizzy.
Still not quite sure what exactly was causing the dizziness, but the definitely poor post workout nutrition was part of it.
And honestly, I'm going to keep starchy carbs in my diet...at least until I feel 100%.
Don't get me wrong, I loved the Primal Blueprint...but I'm not a fan of some of the things Sisson suggests like not tracking food and only eating/drinking when hungry/thirsty. Apparently, I do not have those switches...
I'm WAY too active for the 100g of carbs a day crap. It's probably just fine if you follow his fitness plan to a T but I don't. I lift and do HIIT more than he suggests.
It did however open up my eyes to importance of rest, sunlight,sleep and functional fitness...and it's basic principles is something that I've incorporated into my lifestyle.
I'm still avoiding gluten as much as possible..but it's important to listen to your body. If something isn't jiving, figure out what the causes maybe and narrow it down from there. This is still a big learning process for me. Trial and error.
Anyway...here's my workout log.
Deadlift
2 x 105/12
DB Shoulder Press
2 x 30/12
Wide Grip Pull down
2 x 75/12
Lunges
2 x 35/12
Swiss Ball Crunch
2 x 15
Extras:
Plank
1:02 (feet apart)
-44 sec (feet together)
-37 sec (feet together)
Cable Press
30/10
30/9
and I stopped after, it was irritating my left shoulder.
I feel like I'm forgetting something though, I'm working off memory here. My training log is in the car, which I'm entirely too lazy to go get. Bed, you win this time...
Eliminating grains made me feel FANTASTIC. At least temporarily...
For the last 6 weeks I've been experiencing insane dizzy spells, most of them were happening at night. One night, while I went to make something to eat I totally fainted in the middle of my kitchen floor. I had absolutely no memory of what happened. Needless to say, it terrified me.
The following day, I visited the doctor who chalked it up to dehydration. Okay, easy fix. Drink more water.
So I did that, the dizzy spells still kept going on.
Then I started to wonder if it was the weed that I smoke at night. Perhaps it was giving me tiny anxiety attacks. So, I stopped that for a while...
Dizzy spells still continued to creep on me.
Then my symptoms got worse. I was getting dizzy in the daytime and waking up with SPLITTING headaches. My head literally felt like it weighed 100 pounds.
I brought this to the LS forums because I was petrified of what was going on. This needed to be taken care of before school started, otherwise studying would have been impossible.
It was then that I realized my diet completely lagged complex carbohydrates for almost four months...and I'm trying a new macro split for the next week to see how I feel.
Before I was doing 45/30/25 (F/P/C) and now I'm doing a more balanced split...higher protein, higher carb, lower fat. My split isn't where I want to be just yet, since that takes good practice to get the hang of it.
I ate sweet potato last night for dinner, and steel cut oats pre workout (which I wasn't a huge fan, I still prefer the simple carbs pre-workout). I'm also making it a point to eat REAL food post workout after my whey shake...even if it means forcing it down my throat.
I'm feeling a lot better in just a matter of 2 days. My head doesn't feel heavy, I feel more focused and I'm a lot less dizzy.
Still not quite sure what exactly was causing the dizziness, but the definitely poor post workout nutrition was part of it.
And honestly, I'm going to keep starchy carbs in my diet...at least until I feel 100%.
Don't get me wrong, I loved the Primal Blueprint...but I'm not a fan of some of the things Sisson suggests like not tracking food and only eating/drinking when hungry/thirsty. Apparently, I do not have those switches...
I'm WAY too active for the 100g of carbs a day crap. It's probably just fine if you follow his fitness plan to a T but I don't. I lift and do HIIT more than he suggests.
It did however open up my eyes to importance of rest, sunlight,sleep and functional fitness...and it's basic principles is something that I've incorporated into my lifestyle.
I'm still avoiding gluten as much as possible..but it's important to listen to your body. If something isn't jiving, figure out what the causes maybe and narrow it down from there. This is still a big learning process for me. Trial and error.
Anyway...here's my workout log.
Deadlift
2 x 105/12
DB Shoulder Press
2 x 30/12
Wide Grip Pull down
2 x 75/12
Lunges
2 x 35/12
Swiss Ball Crunch
2 x 15
Extras:
Plank
1:02 (feet apart)
-44 sec (feet together)
-37 sec (feet together)
Cable Press
30/10
30/9
and I stopped after, it was irritating my left shoulder.
I feel like I'm forgetting something though, I'm working off memory here. My training log is in the car, which I'm entirely too lazy to go get. Bed, you win this time...
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Workout log/newbie gains?!??!
I've taken some time off...after I gave out a pint of blood I was feeling weird...weak and reoccurring headaches.
I needed a few days off from lifting anyway. Anxious to get back into the weight room :)
Today I felt good though, I went to the gym and cranked out some HIIT.
8 x 30 seconds with 1 minute rest in between. Mentally, this was hard to get through...for the fact that I dislike indoor cardio. I f'ed up my left ankle at work the other day (slight sprain, I think) so I didn't want to do anything that was going to directly impact that, so I opted for the elliptical machine.
Finished up with 15 minutes of stretching.
Anyhoot...
I also weighed in today.
I'm down just under 2 pounds in 3 weeks, and apparently gained an inch in my thighs. I either measured incorrectly the previous time, or I'm experiencing n00bie gains. No changes anywhere else though. :(
Though, I can visibly see more back muscles these days and oblique lines in darker lighting. YES!
Next weigh in...Sept 5th!
I needed a few days off from lifting anyway. Anxious to get back into the weight room :)
Today I felt good though, I went to the gym and cranked out some HIIT.
8 x 30 seconds with 1 minute rest in between. Mentally, this was hard to get through...for the fact that I dislike indoor cardio. I f'ed up my left ankle at work the other day (slight sprain, I think) so I didn't want to do anything that was going to directly impact that, so I opted for the elliptical machine.
Finished up with 15 minutes of stretching.
Anyhoot...
I also weighed in today.
I'm down just under 2 pounds in 3 weeks, and apparently gained an inch in my thighs. I either measured incorrectly the previous time, or I'm experiencing n00bie gains. No changes anywhere else though. :(
Though, I can visibly see more back muscles these days and oblique lines in darker lighting. YES!
Next weigh in...Sept 5th!
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Feelin' good...
*see title*
Warmup:
-Squat to stands (15)
-Lateral lunges (10 each leg)
-Inch worm
-Push up (10)
repeated twice.
Deadlift
2 x 105/12
DB shoulder press
30/12
30/8
35/6
Wide Grip Lat Pulldown
2 x 75/12
Lunge
35/12
30/12....balance was still weird on my right leg so I lowered the weight
Swiss Ball Crunch
2 x 15
Plank
36 seconds
1 minute
I fucking owned those deadlifts today, which is really awesome for me. They've been such a thorn in my side for literally 6 months. I'm really starting to build up that explosive strength. WIN!!! I had attempted to do some interval work at the end of my workout, but my legs were just beat to crap. Maybe after dinner tonight I'll have the energy to get some out of me...
My diet had a few slip ups today, but it's all good. I started my day off with a crappy breakfast because I over slept...which for me my breakfasts sets the tone for the day. Makes those broken work cookies seem so much more tempting.
;)
Warmup:
-Squat to stands (15)
-Lateral lunges (10 each leg)
-Inch worm
-Push up (10)
repeated twice.
Deadlift
2 x 105/12
DB shoulder press
30/12
30/8
35/6
Wide Grip Lat Pulldown
2 x 75/12
Lunge
35/12
30/12....balance was still weird on my right leg so I lowered the weight
Swiss Ball Crunch
2 x 15
Plank
36 seconds
1 minute
I fucking owned those deadlifts today, which is really awesome for me. They've been such a thorn in my side for literally 6 months. I'm really starting to build up that explosive strength. WIN!!! I had attempted to do some interval work at the end of my workout, but my legs were just beat to crap. Maybe after dinner tonight I'll have the energy to get some out of me...
My diet had a few slip ups today, but it's all good. I started my day off with a crappy breakfast because I over slept...which for me my breakfasts sets the tone for the day. Makes those broken work cookies seem so much more tempting.
;)
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Yesterday and Today.
Yesterday: NROLFW ...end of week one for phase 1.
Squat
2 x 115/15
Pushup (wide grip)
2 x 15
(The pushups felt effortless for the first time ever. HAPPY!!!)
Seated Row
70/15
75/15
Step Up
2 x 15 (BW) My balance is getting better but not there yet.. :(
Jackknife
2 x 15
Extra Stuff:
Assisted Pull Up (all with 70 pound assist)
10, 7, 6
Cable Press
30/10
30/10
30/7
Leg Raises (on floor)
3 x 10
Today:
Outdoor barefoot sprints, 8 rounds. Hot as hell outside..and I'm sore as hell now.
I really think I need to tweak my routine and do my HIIT after my weight training at least twice a week. My body isn't jiving with the constant man handling...and save my off lifting days for easy cardio and stretching. I just don't feel 100%...and I'm still adjusting to this high rep thing.
:/
Squat
2 x 115/15
Pushup (wide grip)
2 x 15
(The pushups felt effortless for the first time ever. HAPPY!!!)
Seated Row
70/15
75/15
Step Up
2 x 15 (BW) My balance is getting better but not there yet.. :(
Jackknife
2 x 15
Extra Stuff:
Assisted Pull Up (all with 70 pound assist)
10, 7, 6
Cable Press
30/10
30/10
30/7
Leg Raises (on floor)
3 x 10
Today:
Outdoor barefoot sprints, 8 rounds. Hot as hell outside..and I'm sore as hell now.
I really think I need to tweak my routine and do my HIIT after my weight training at least twice a week. My body isn't jiving with the constant man handling...and save my off lifting days for easy cardio and stretching. I just don't feel 100%...and I'm still adjusting to this high rep thing.
:/
Sunday, August 15, 2010
fails and food hangovers.
Last night, not sure what came over me (maybe it was the weed, okay...it WAS the weed) but I decided to shove like 800 calories of pure shit down my throat.
A piece of blueberry pie and a side of vanilla ice cream and I had a scoop of peanut butter. WTF.
I don't feel guilty about it really, I enjoyed it. But I do hate the aftermath of what occurs.
I decided to work in some sprints today because a) I felt like it and b) I didn't want to be a lazy ass.
The sprints sucked. I managed 6...4 of which were at 10MPH. My ankles started to hurt me though, and I didn't want to push it with the running. I decided to end it with 3 more rounds on the elliptical. My legs tired out before my heart did...but I suppose that's what happens when you take a break from your normal nutrition patterns.
Either way, I still left the gym a big ole' sweaty mess. Wish I could have taken a picture of my back...so gross.
I finished off my workout with 15 minutes of stretching. Lots of focus on the lower body since that seems to be my problem areas.
/End.
A piece of blueberry pie and a side of vanilla ice cream and I had a scoop of peanut butter. WTF.
I don't feel guilty about it really, I enjoyed it. But I do hate the aftermath of what occurs.
- 5 pounds of bloating
- irregularity
- groggy, sluggish feeling all day
- stomach cramps
- headaches
I decided to work in some sprints today because a) I felt like it and b) I didn't want to be a lazy ass.
The sprints sucked. I managed 6...4 of which were at 10MPH. My ankles started to hurt me though, and I didn't want to push it with the running. I decided to end it with 3 more rounds on the elliptical. My legs tired out before my heart did...but I suppose that's what happens when you take a break from your normal nutrition patterns.
Either way, I still left the gym a big ole' sweaty mess. Wish I could have taken a picture of my back...so gross.
I finished off my workout with 15 minutes of stretching. Lots of focus on the lower body since that seems to be my problem areas.
/End.
Friday, August 13, 2010
NROLFW Workout B #2
Remember how I said my first workout of New Rules felt short...and not very challenging?
Well...I'm an IDIOT and forgot to do my shoulder presses. I knew something felt weird!
Anyhoot...
My original plan for this morning was to lift...but I just felt REALLY tight so I decided on some light cardio and stretching. Good choice, because by the time evening rolled around I felt ready to go..and generally motivated to pump some iron, yo.
I've been trying real hard to take the primal lifestyle more seriously aside the diet and fitness part of it. Working on trying to get more connected to my body...so far it's working. I feel much more relaxed now. It's kind of nice not following a super rigid schedule. Besides, it's awesome to take naps every now and then. Doing what feels natural is winning so far.
Here's my workout log for today...
Deadlift
2 x 95/15
DB Shoulder Press
30/15
30/13...I did 15 reps but the last two were sloppy.
Lunge
2 x 30/15 for both my right and left leg (HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!)
Swiss Ball Crunch
3 x 15
Extra stuff:
Plank (feet apart)
-1 minute
-35 seconds
-30 seconds
Pushup
10 for close grip
10 for wide grip
Bench Dips
-BW/15
2 x BW/15 on one leg ( I learned those from Trainer Bob's facebook, though I did not crank out 100 like the girl did)
The deadlifts and lunges felt A LOT better. I really think the stretching is helping, plus I've been tailoring my warm ups to what kind of moves I'll be doing in the gym.
I actually left the gym dripping in sweat. I haven't been taking following the program down to a T (extra sets, extra reps in some areas and I'm taking 30 seconds TOPS between rests if that) I can't totally dog on the program because my muscular endurance has already made some improvements.
Just trying to be patient with lower weight/high rep junk.
Well...I'm an IDIOT and forgot to do my shoulder presses. I knew something felt weird!
Anyhoot...
My original plan for this morning was to lift...but I just felt REALLY tight so I decided on some light cardio and stretching. Good choice, because by the time evening rolled around I felt ready to go..and generally motivated to pump some iron, yo.
I've been trying real hard to take the primal lifestyle more seriously aside the diet and fitness part of it. Working on trying to get more connected to my body...so far it's working. I feel much more relaxed now. It's kind of nice not following a super rigid schedule. Besides, it's awesome to take naps every now and then. Doing what feels natural is winning so far.
Here's my workout log for today...
Deadlift
2 x 95/15
DB Shoulder Press
30/15
30/13...I did 15 reps but the last two were sloppy.
Lunge
2 x 30/15 for both my right and left leg (HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!)
Swiss Ball Crunch
3 x 15
Extra stuff:
Plank (feet apart)
-1 minute
-35 seconds
-30 seconds
Pushup
10 for close grip
10 for wide grip
Bench Dips
-BW/15
2 x BW/15 on one leg ( I learned those from Trainer Bob's facebook, though I did not crank out 100 like the girl did)
The deadlifts and lunges felt A LOT better. I really think the stretching is helping, plus I've been tailoring my warm ups to what kind of moves I'll be doing in the gym.
I actually left the gym dripping in sweat. I haven't been taking following the program down to a T (extra sets, extra reps in some areas and I'm taking 30 seconds TOPS between rests if that) I can't totally dog on the program because my muscular endurance has already made some improvements.
Just trying to be patient with lower weight/high rep junk.
Random Thoughts
Over the past year I have made a complete 360 with my life. I often think about where my life was before I discovered a healthy lifestyle. All I did was smoke pot, I don't really remember being sober in high school...at all. I also struggled with behavioral issues, uncontrollable bursts of anger, anxiety and depression. I used food as a way to heal myself. It was a viscous cycle...I had a very dysfunctional relationship with food. It was my best friend yet my worst enemy all at the same time.
Literally, I ate my feelings. And never did I hold myself accountable for my actions. It was always something or someone else.
I found a lot of comfort in the "juggalo" scene during my high school years. I had friends that were like me. Since I was under my older sisters wing, I was able to travel a lot and party with "rock stars" at 16. I was part of a world of misfits...a part of my life I certainly do miss. I did things at 16 years old that most people in their 30's haven't done (I really hope my mother doesn't read this). After high school, I packed up and moved 1500 miles away from my family and learned how to live life on my own two feet. Biggest learning experience of my life and if it wasn't for that I would have never gotten the motivation to go to college. It freakin' sucked working 50 hours a week just to barely make the rent and live on cereal and Ramen noodles 24/7.
With that said, I wouldn't change a THING about my past. These events served as a prerequisite of what was to become of my life. My experiences have shaped who I am as a human being; strong, resilient and self sufficient.
I understand that my hobbies and interests have changed over the years. They might seem "out of the norm" for a lot of people. Yeah, I'm the girl at your BBQ eating a breadless burger and doing pushups and stretches at the beach (no joke, this is where I'm writing this). But that is fine by me. It's who I am. I like having this world to call my own, I'm drawn to the "freaky" nature of the fitness industry. I never truly felt like I fit in anywhere until now. This is where I want to be.
My old relationships have suffered a little bit since I'd rather spend my time at the gym or hiking instead of being at a bar (don't get me wrong, I occasionally have the urge to get my drank on ;) ). But I know I'm not abnormal, there are millions of people like me...I just haven't found them in Rhode Island yet....which leads me to set a new goal.
I digress.
For me, the hardest part of this journey has been learning to love myself. It's REALLY easy to focus on the negatives. I'm not 100% there yet, but I've made great progress. I still have fears I have to face. I still have to learn to let go and learn to trust other people. I still have to accept that I cannot do everything on my own. I still have to learn to ask for help when I need it.
I HAVE TO LEARN THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN BEING WEAK AND BEING HUMAN.
It's okay to cry. It's okay to depend on some one else for a little support. It's okay to trust.
I know that sometimes I post really stupid pictures of quad progressions and whatnot on my Facebook. But I want people to understand that above all...this is an emotional journey. It all starts with your mind. Sometimes I even lose sight of this.
This is about finding yourself and figuring out who you are. The rest will fall into place after that.
I just so happened to find myself through lifting and nutrition. For you it maybe something different. It maybe music, art, business, your children or whatever it is that makes you get out of bed in the morning.
Find your passion. Master your craft. Own it. But be sure to take care of yourself along the way. What use are you if you aren't 100%?
I'm really not sure where this post went...I just let my pen do the work...but I feel it's appropriate to close it off with one of my favorite lyrics..
"Bloom where your plant is planted. Understand the planter's plan. This is your ground so stand it."
Literally, I ate my feelings. And never did I hold myself accountable for my actions. It was always something or someone else.
I found a lot of comfort in the "juggalo" scene during my high school years. I had friends that were like me. Since I was under my older sisters wing, I was able to travel a lot and party with "rock stars" at 16. I was part of a world of misfits...a part of my life I certainly do miss. I did things at 16 years old that most people in their 30's haven't done (I really hope my mother doesn't read this). After high school, I packed up and moved 1500 miles away from my family and learned how to live life on my own two feet. Biggest learning experience of my life and if it wasn't for that I would have never gotten the motivation to go to college. It freakin' sucked working 50 hours a week just to barely make the rent and live on cereal and Ramen noodles 24/7.
With that said, I wouldn't change a THING about my past. These events served as a prerequisite of what was to become of my life. My experiences have shaped who I am as a human being; strong, resilient and self sufficient.
I understand that my hobbies and interests have changed over the years. They might seem "out of the norm" for a lot of people. Yeah, I'm the girl at your BBQ eating a breadless burger and doing pushups and stretches at the beach (no joke, this is where I'm writing this). But that is fine by me. It's who I am. I like having this world to call my own, I'm drawn to the "freaky" nature of the fitness industry. I never truly felt like I fit in anywhere until now. This is where I want to be.
My old relationships have suffered a little bit since I'd rather spend my time at the gym or hiking instead of being at a bar (don't get me wrong, I occasionally have the urge to get my drank on ;) ). But I know I'm not abnormal, there are millions of people like me...I just haven't found them in Rhode Island yet....which leads me to set a new goal.
- Finding better relationships
I digress.
For me, the hardest part of this journey has been learning to love myself. It's REALLY easy to focus on the negatives. I'm not 100% there yet, but I've made great progress. I still have fears I have to face. I still have to learn to let go and learn to trust other people. I still have to accept that I cannot do everything on my own. I still have to learn to ask for help when I need it.
I HAVE TO LEARN THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN BEING WEAK AND BEING HUMAN.
It's okay to cry. It's okay to depend on some one else for a little support. It's okay to trust.
I know that sometimes I post really stupid pictures of quad progressions and whatnot on my Facebook. But I want people to understand that above all...this is an emotional journey. It all starts with your mind. Sometimes I even lose sight of this.
This is about finding yourself and figuring out who you are. The rest will fall into place after that.
I just so happened to find myself through lifting and nutrition. For you it maybe something different. It maybe music, art, business, your children or whatever it is that makes you get out of bed in the morning.
Find your passion. Master your craft. Own it. But be sure to take care of yourself along the way. What use are you if you aren't 100%?
I'm really not sure where this post went...I just let my pen do the work...but I feel it's appropriate to close it off with one of my favorite lyrics..
"Bloom where your plant is planted. Understand the planter's plan. This is your ground so stand it."
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
15 reps can suck my ass.
1st workout of Workout A in New Rules of Lifting for Women
Squats
115/15
115/15
Pushups
BW/15
BW/15
both wider grip
Step Ups
20/15 (L)
BW/15(R)
25/15 (L)
15/15(R)
Jack Knife
2 x 15
Seated Row
65/15
70/15
As the title says, 15 reps can suck my ass. It's just too much, I don't get it...I kinda of wish I did this program as a n00bie lifter. My back is killing me after 2 x 15 of squats :(
I did some extra stuff as well...cause well...I find this phasing in insanely boring. Not sure how long I'll be able to sustain this. The workouts for stage 2 and on seem legit...solid workouts...although they seem a little lengthy...at least on paper.
Assisted Pull Ups
3 x 6 with 70 pound assist
Tricep Pushdown
20/15
30/7
30/7
BW Bench Dip
3 x 10
BLAH
Squats
115/15
115/15
Pushups
BW/15
BW/15
both wider grip
Step Ups
20/15 (L)
BW/15(R)
25/15 (L)
15/15(R)
Jack Knife
2 x 15
Seated Row
65/15
70/15
As the title says, 15 reps can suck my ass. It's just too much, I don't get it...I kinda of wish I did this program as a n00bie lifter. My back is killing me after 2 x 15 of squats :(
I did some extra stuff as well...cause well...I find this phasing in insanely boring. Not sure how long I'll be able to sustain this. The workouts for stage 2 and on seem legit...solid workouts...although they seem a little lengthy...at least on paper.
Assisted Pull Ups
3 x 6 with 70 pound assist
Tricep Pushdown
20/15
30/7
30/7
BW Bench Dip
3 x 10
BLAH
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Today was a good day...fitness wise and nutrition wise. I did 15 minutes of HIIT treadmill sprints. I cranked my sprints up to 9.5mph the last half of the workout. Pretty damn proud. Stronger. Faster. Better.
I followed up with about 15 minutes of stretching, which felt good. I'm starting to feel the differences since I've been stretching more. Less tight and tense and better movement in general. Hopefully my issues with my right hip will start to improve.
Eating wise...
Breakfast:
Vanilla Greek Yogurt, Blueberries, Flaxseed and a banana.
Snack:
1 oz almonds
Lunch:
Scrambled eggs (2 whole), the leftover cheeseburger I had diced up and spinach. It was actually really awesome.
Snack:
Natural Peanut Butter and Gala apple (I know, not primal but I can't find almond butter *tear*)
Dinner:
Broccoli salad with hardboiled egg, bacon, almonds..and a little butter, salt and pepper. YUM!
On another random note...
My sister's album is completely finished. It sounds and looks amazing. And I'm so incredibly proud to call her my sister. She is come a LONG way since I first seen her spit a rap in Chaz's studio. Sara was so shy and unsure of herself then. She has truly mastered her craft since then...and she continues to prove to me that if you have a passion in life success is inevitable...I'm inspired by her.
COP THAT SHIT!!
I followed up with about 15 minutes of stretching, which felt good. I'm starting to feel the differences since I've been stretching more. Less tight and tense and better movement in general. Hopefully my issues with my right hip will start to improve.
Eating wise...
Breakfast:
Vanilla Greek Yogurt, Blueberries, Flaxseed and a banana.
Snack:
1 oz almonds
Lunch:
Scrambled eggs (2 whole), the leftover cheeseburger I had diced up and spinach. It was actually really awesome.
Snack:
Natural Peanut Butter and Gala apple (I know, not primal but I can't find almond butter *tear*)
Dinner:
Broccoli salad with hardboiled egg, bacon, almonds..and a little butter, salt and pepper. YUM!
On another random note...
My sister's album is completely finished. It sounds and looks amazing. And I'm so incredibly proud to call her my sister. She is come a LONG way since I first seen her spit a rap in Chaz's studio. Sara was so shy and unsure of herself then. She has truly mastered her craft since then...and she continues to prove to me that if you have a passion in life success is inevitable...I'm inspired by her.
COP THAT SHIT!!
Monday, August 9, 2010
New Rules of Lifting Phase 1: Day 1
I decided to try the New Rules of Lifting program since I recommend the book so much.
I started it today with phase 1 workout B.
Deadlifts
95/15
95/15
Wide Grip Lat Pull Down
70/15
70/15
Lunges
BW/15
20/15
Swiss Ball Crunch
15
15
This was entirely too easy for me. Yeah, cranking out 30 deadlifts at 95 pounds made me sweat, but I didn't even think it was worthy of a whey shake after.
However, I do understand how this is supposed to help a n00bie lifter. Building muscular endurance and so forth.
But I really think I'm just gonna jump into phase 2 at lighter weight and higher reps and continue from there.
I left the gym like...
"Really?!"
Bring on the push presses and snatches please.
I started it today with phase 1 workout B.
Deadlifts
95/15
95/15
Wide Grip Lat Pull Down
70/15
70/15
Lunges
BW/15
20/15
Swiss Ball Crunch
15
15
This was entirely too easy for me. Yeah, cranking out 30 deadlifts at 95 pounds made me sweat, but I didn't even think it was worthy of a whey shake after.
However, I do understand how this is supposed to help a n00bie lifter. Building muscular endurance and so forth.
But I really think I'm just gonna jump into phase 2 at lighter weight and higher reps and continue from there.
I left the gym like...
"Really?!"
Bring on the push presses and snatches please.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Weekend menu....
Saturday:
I had a few diet slip ups on Saturday. I ate some potatoes and had an almond danish at work. Hey, at least it was..SORT OF primal. ;) But I balanced that out with the rest of my meals.
I also did a tabata interval work out. 4 minutes, but honestly I didn't think it was enough. But I failed to push myself for another session. *sigh*
Sunday:
I attempted to go for a distance run. I've come to the conclusion that I am entirely too muscular for distance running. It's amusing to me that I can handle interval training which in theory is significantly more challenging than a steady state routine. I can bang out 8 sets of sprints at 8-9MPH but can't run more than 10 minutes straight. I hate it!
But, I suppose the difference in physique speaks for itself.
Stick the training regime that is going to help you achieve your goals.
Mine: Get strong and powerful. Distance running isn't going to get me there.
I had a few diet slip ups on Saturday. I ate some potatoes and had an almond danish at work. Hey, at least it was..SORT OF primal. ;) But I balanced that out with the rest of my meals.
I also did a tabata interval work out. 4 minutes, but honestly I didn't think it was enough. But I failed to push myself for another session. *sigh*
Sunday:
I attempted to go for a distance run. I've come to the conclusion that I am entirely too muscular for distance running. It's amusing to me that I can handle interval training which in theory is significantly more challenging than a steady state routine. I can bang out 8 sets of sprints at 8-9MPH but can't run more than 10 minutes straight. I hate it!
But, I suppose the difference in physique speaks for itself.Stick the training regime that is going to help you achieve your goals.
Mine: Get strong and powerful. Distance running isn't going to get me there.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Today's work!
Alright...
so I worked on my deadlifts today. 95 pounds IS my warm up...I shot some videos of me lifting 105, because I'm desperate for a form check. For the most part it looks pretty okay, accept that you can see how bad I'm over thinking the entire lift. It's all over my face. Unfortunately, I have no way of uploading these videos until I see my sister on Sunday.
Anyhoot here is today's log.
Dead lift:
Warm up: 95lbs, 2 x 10
105/8
105/6
Cable Row + Close Grip Pull
75/10 + 70/10
75/6 + 75/8
75/8 + 75/6
Cable Press + Pushup
30/10 + 10
30/7 + 7
30/8 + 6
DB Pullover + Skull Crusher
22.5/10 + 40/8
25/10 + 40/8
25/10 + 40/7
Shoulder Press
30/10
35/6
35/6
Assisted Pull up
85/10
70/6
70/6
Not happy with my chest and back work today. The strength just wasn't there at all...probably from the DL's.
But I'm happy with my shoulder presses and assisted pulls! :)
so I worked on my deadlifts today. 95 pounds IS my warm up...I shot some videos of me lifting 105, because I'm desperate for a form check. For the most part it looks pretty okay, accept that you can see how bad I'm over thinking the entire lift. It's all over my face. Unfortunately, I have no way of uploading these videos until I see my sister on Sunday.
Anyhoot here is today's log.
Dead lift:
Warm up: 95lbs, 2 x 10
105/8
105/6
Cable Row + Close Grip Pull
75/10 + 70/10
75/6 + 75/8
75/8 + 75/6
Cable Press + Pushup
30/10 + 10
30/7 + 7
30/8 + 6
DB Pullover + Skull Crusher
22.5/10 + 40/8
25/10 + 40/8
25/10 + 40/7
Shoulder Press
30/10
35/6
35/6
Assisted Pull up
85/10
70/6
70/6
Not happy with my chest and back work today. The strength just wasn't there at all...probably from the DL's.
But I'm happy with my shoulder presses and assisted pulls! :)
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Nothing to gloat about.
Today, I took a rest day. I did a 3 mile trail walk, nothing strenuous. I really just wanted to relax...nothing but me, the iPod and the sun. I needed it...
I needed to save my energy for dead lifts tomorrow. I've been having issues with these. Quite frankly, they have been a thorn in my side and it's getting to my last nerve. I've been doing a lot more reading about the lift, so I'm really hoping something gives. Focus. Focus. Focus.
I did cook a pretty yummy dish...excuse the craptastic photo quality.
It's broccoli, native tomato's, garlic, olive oil and bacon. Next time though, I'm adding a few hard boiled eggs. This needed a lot more protein, but it was DELICOUS and filling...and cost me about $5 to make and I got two meals out of it. Word!
I needed to save my energy for dead lifts tomorrow. I've been having issues with these. Quite frankly, they have been a thorn in my side and it's getting to my last nerve. I've been doing a lot more reading about the lift, so I'm really hoping something gives. Focus. Focus. Focus.
I did cook a pretty yummy dish...excuse the craptastic photo quality.
It's broccoli, native tomato's, garlic, olive oil and bacon. Next time though, I'm adding a few hard boiled eggs. This needed a lot more protein, but it was DELICOUS and filling...and cost me about $5 to make and I got two meals out of it. Word!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Weeding out the excuses.
My Facebook inbox is regularly filled with questions regarding my diet and routine.
"What are you doing?"
"Proper diet and exercise?"
"Oh"
As if they are disappointed and from there I get a plethora of excuses as to why they can't do it. Let's start with the most common.
"I don't have time to workout"
Yes, you do. HIIT takes 15 minutes, tabata intervals 4 minutes. Yeah, you may have to sacrifice a bar night or TV time for the gym but oh well. Make YOUR health a priority. You brush your teeth everyday, there is no reason why you shouldn't move your body. An hour of exercise is worth another 10-20 years on your life.
"I can't afford a gym membership"
Last time I had checked, body weight exercises are free. So is running/jogging/walking. Also, if you google you can make home made equipment. Do not use $ as an excuse from holding you back.
"I can't afford to eat healthy"
Again, this is a load of garbage. Buy what's on sale and in season, shop farmer's markets and plan your meals. I'm a broke ass college kid and managed to lose 75 pounds with clean eating. Eggs are cheap. Bananas are cheap. Salad mixes are cheap. You DO NOT have to shop Whole Foods. You had no problems coughing up $5 for a Big Mac meal, right?
"I have no one to support me"
We live in an internet crazed world. Really? Come on now. I'm sure you can find some one to motivate you out of the bajillion people that use it. Anyways, if you are in a relationship with some one whether it's boyfriend/girlfriend, friends or family and they choose to be non supportive of you....it's time to make new relationships. You have to be very vocal about your goals, especially with friends and family. You cannot expect them to understand what it is you are trying to do if you don't sit them down and explain it.
"People will judge me in a gym"
Actually, they don't judge you. Unless you are doing something really retarded (such as wearing sunglasses in the gym) The "in shape" people are there for the same reasons as you are: for their health. You need to step out of your comfort zone if you want this to work. You NEED to challenge yourself. If you do not tackle these insecurities, they will crawl up your leg and bite you in the ass...hard.
"What are you doing?"
"Proper diet and exercise?"
"Oh"
As if they are disappointed and from there I get a plethora of excuses as to why they can't do it. Let's start with the most common.
"I don't have time to workout"
Yes, you do. HIIT takes 15 minutes, tabata intervals 4 minutes. Yeah, you may have to sacrifice a bar night or TV time for the gym but oh well. Make YOUR health a priority. You brush your teeth everyday, there is no reason why you shouldn't move your body. An hour of exercise is worth another 10-20 years on your life.
"I can't afford a gym membership"
Last time I had checked, body weight exercises are free. So is running/jogging/walking. Also, if you google you can make home made equipment. Do not use $ as an excuse from holding you back.
"I can't afford to eat healthy"
Again, this is a load of garbage. Buy what's on sale and in season, shop farmer's markets and plan your meals. I'm a broke ass college kid and managed to lose 75 pounds with clean eating. Eggs are cheap. Bananas are cheap. Salad mixes are cheap. You DO NOT have to shop Whole Foods. You had no problems coughing up $5 for a Big Mac meal, right?
"I have no one to support me"
We live in an internet crazed world. Really? Come on now. I'm sure you can find some one to motivate you out of the bajillion people that use it. Anyways, if you are in a relationship with some one whether it's boyfriend/girlfriend, friends or family and they choose to be non supportive of you....it's time to make new relationships. You have to be very vocal about your goals, especially with friends and family. You cannot expect them to understand what it is you are trying to do if you don't sit them down and explain it.
"People will judge me in a gym"
Actually, they don't judge you. Unless you are doing something really retarded (such as wearing sunglasses in the gym) The "in shape" people are there for the same reasons as you are: for their health. You need to step out of your comfort zone if you want this to work. You NEED to challenge yourself. If you do not tackle these insecurities, they will crawl up your leg and bite you in the ass...hard.
Making a commitment./Finding your passion
It has been 5 weeks since my last blog, not cool. From here on out, I am committing myself to my writing. I absolutely need to start blogging my workouts, instead of keeping them locked away in a training log. It really helps me stay on track...and looking at my older posts I have certainly come a LONG way.
Since the end of May, I've taken my diet and fitness regime more serious. Tip to those reading: never get comfortable with anything in life. As soon as you get comfortable, you lose the hunger, the motivation and that's where we start to slack. I've also officially changed my college major...which I shall get into later.
Anyhoot...as for the key changes.
Grains...
I have cut them out almost entirely. Sure, I indulge in the occasional sandwich or pasta dish now and then but other than that I don't miss processed carbohydrates. I've replaced these calories with fruits, vegetables and healthy fats. I know eat roughly 6-10 servings of fruit and vegetables a day. My energy level has been incredible and my workouts are a million times more productive. I'm not fortunate enough to eat grass fed everything, but I do what I can when I can.
Fitness...
The last few months I've really been trying my best to educate myself on fitness. One thing that I am starting to learn your training has to be SPECIFIC to your goals. My goals as of right now is getting more athletic, lean and powerful.
Thanks to my girls Linds, I was fortunate enough to use one of her routines which has changed my body in ways I couldn't imagine. It's really taught me a lot about how the human body is connected and how different parts of the body work with other parts of the body.
So a lot my focus lately has been on compound lifts and a few isolation moves. Whereas before, I was isolating almost everything. The two big ones I'm working on right now are squats and dead lifts.
The squatting is coming along GREAT. I'm squatting 125 now which is pretty amazing considering I couldn't squat my own weight before. The dead lifts, not so much. For some reason they have been such a huge thorn in my side. I know it's a mental thing and underestimating my strength. So, on Friday I'm going to attempt my first max out. Hopefully, with a video for a form check. I'm a little nervous, so I'm taking tomorrow off from working out to conserve some energy. DL's are freakin' tough for me.
I've also taken the conditioning part of this a lot more serious. I've been doing a lot of interval training and tabata jump roping. My endurance has definitely improved.
The conditioning plus strength training has really done incredible things for my body. I'm leaning out quite nicely, and plus I feel strong and healthy (which is what counts the most).
I'm happy to say that this is becoming less about weight and more about body sculpting. It may sound vain, but I don't train to look good. I train because I like setting goals and achieving them. If I happen to look good naked along the way, SWEET!
Finding Your Passion
Through this journey I've learned quite a bit about myself and where I want to be with my life. Some how, some way I am going to break into the fitness industry. That is where my heart and soul lies. I want this to be what I eat, sleep and breath.
I made the first step by changing my college major, I'm know majoring in community health. Health education has been a passion for me in particular, only because I can relate to what it's like to take genuine steps to get healthy but only to have everything ass backwards. It took me a year to be able to weed out the bad information from the good information. To me, that is ridiculous. Health education in this country needs to be taken more seriously. It's my mission to change this.
Eventually, I'd love to get certified in personal training. Maybe another year down the road. I need to get myself in better shape and continue this learning process (I still consider myself a n00b).
We shall see where this road takes me. :)
Since the end of May, I've taken my diet and fitness regime more serious. Tip to those reading: never get comfortable with anything in life. As soon as you get comfortable, you lose the hunger, the motivation and that's where we start to slack. I've also officially changed my college major...which I shall get into later.
Anyhoot...as for the key changes.
Grains...
I have cut them out almost entirely. Sure, I indulge in the occasional sandwich or pasta dish now and then but other than that I don't miss processed carbohydrates. I've replaced these calories with fruits, vegetables and healthy fats. I know eat roughly 6-10 servings of fruit and vegetables a day. My energy level has been incredible and my workouts are a million times more productive. I'm not fortunate enough to eat grass fed everything, but I do what I can when I can.
Fitness...
The last few months I've really been trying my best to educate myself on fitness. One thing that I am starting to learn your training has to be SPECIFIC to your goals. My goals as of right now is getting more athletic, lean and powerful.
Thanks to my girls Linds, I was fortunate enough to use one of her routines which has changed my body in ways I couldn't imagine. It's really taught me a lot about how the human body is connected and how different parts of the body work with other parts of the body.
So a lot my focus lately has been on compound lifts and a few isolation moves. Whereas before, I was isolating almost everything. The two big ones I'm working on right now are squats and dead lifts.
The squatting is coming along GREAT. I'm squatting 125 now which is pretty amazing considering I couldn't squat my own weight before. The dead lifts, not so much. For some reason they have been such a huge thorn in my side. I know it's a mental thing and underestimating my strength. So, on Friday I'm going to attempt my first max out. Hopefully, with a video for a form check. I'm a little nervous, so I'm taking tomorrow off from working out to conserve some energy. DL's are freakin' tough for me.
I've also taken the conditioning part of this a lot more serious. I've been doing a lot of interval training and tabata jump roping. My endurance has definitely improved.
The conditioning plus strength training has really done incredible things for my body. I'm leaning out quite nicely, and plus I feel strong and healthy (which is what counts the most).
I'm happy to say that this is becoming less about weight and more about body sculpting. It may sound vain, but I don't train to look good. I train because I like setting goals and achieving them. If I happen to look good naked along the way, SWEET!
Finding Your Passion
Through this journey I've learned quite a bit about myself and where I want to be with my life. Some how, some way I am going to break into the fitness industry. That is where my heart and soul lies. I want this to be what I eat, sleep and breath.
I made the first step by changing my college major, I'm know majoring in community health. Health education has been a passion for me in particular, only because I can relate to what it's like to take genuine steps to get healthy but only to have everything ass backwards. It took me a year to be able to weed out the bad information from the good information. To me, that is ridiculous. Health education in this country needs to be taken more seriously. It's my mission to change this.
Eventually, I'd love to get certified in personal training. Maybe another year down the road. I need to get myself in better shape and continue this learning process (I still consider myself a n00b).
We shall see where this road takes me. :)
Monday, June 28, 2010
Feelin' demotivated.
I took up Paleo style eating at the end of May..and I've had some pretty good success. I dropped 4 pounds right off the bat, and my energy levels SKY ROCKETED.
However, one problem I've been facing the last few days is my compulsive eating. Yes, I'm a food addict...and this is something I know I will struggle with for the rest of my life. Just as I'm going good and steady with diet changes..it likes to creep up on me again. So I had some pizza here and there, a drink here and there...and maybe a cookie. After that...the guilt sets in.
Thankfully, I'm pretty good at not allowing myself to wallow in guilt. There is always a new day to start fresh.
In general though, I'm just feeling unmotivated. I want a new exercise routine. As much as I absolutely love to lift..it's not helping me get athletic. Strength is awesome and all...but wtf...
So, I'm thinking of taking a break from it for a little while and work on some plyometrics type shit.
I dunno. I need a boost.
However, one problem I've been facing the last few days is my compulsive eating. Yes, I'm a food addict...and this is something I know I will struggle with for the rest of my life. Just as I'm going good and steady with diet changes..it likes to creep up on me again. So I had some pizza here and there, a drink here and there...and maybe a cookie. After that...the guilt sets in.
Thankfully, I'm pretty good at not allowing myself to wallow in guilt. There is always a new day to start fresh.
In general though, I'm just feeling unmotivated. I want a new exercise routine. As much as I absolutely love to lift..it's not helping me get athletic. Strength is awesome and all...but wtf...
So, I'm thinking of taking a break from it for a little while and work on some plyometrics type shit.
I dunno. I need a boost.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Feeling torn.
I just have absolutely no idea what I want to do with my life. Well, I kinda do.
Currently, I'm going to school for social work. I'm finishing up my 2 year general studies right now at CCRI and all set to transfer to Rhode Island College in the fall.
After speaking with several professionals and hearing some clinical cases, I'm beginning to feel like it's not for me anymore. While I absolutely love people and their minds, I'm more interested in how things function together. I'm all about the mind, body, spirit and social environment connection.
Fitness and health is my life, and I some how want to combine the two. So, I'm beginning to think personal training maybe a good option for me. I can apply the things I've learned through social work at this practice. Motivating and goal setting principles are exactly the same, regardless if it's the fitness industry or social work.
I need to speak with a career counselor or something before I make any decisions. The money and time factor seems to be holding me back. I do not want to rack up an insane amount of debt for something I'm not into, nor do I want to regret any decisions.
Over the last few months, I've just been bombarded with nothing but love, admiration and a shit ton of questions about what I do. I'd much rather spend myself helping people be the best they can be rather and it seems to me that personal training and counseling are one in the same.
So for right now, I'm going with what I have planned while keeping my options open and working on getting myself into much better shape. Hopefully my school can help me with gathering up information.
Currently, I'm going to school for social work. I'm finishing up my 2 year general studies right now at CCRI and all set to transfer to Rhode Island College in the fall.
After speaking with several professionals and hearing some clinical cases, I'm beginning to feel like it's not for me anymore. While I absolutely love people and their minds, I'm more interested in how things function together. I'm all about the mind, body, spirit and social environment connection.
Fitness and health is my life, and I some how want to combine the two. So, I'm beginning to think personal training maybe a good option for me. I can apply the things I've learned through social work at this practice. Motivating and goal setting principles are exactly the same, regardless if it's the fitness industry or social work.
I need to speak with a career counselor or something before I make any decisions. The money and time factor seems to be holding me back. I do not want to rack up an insane amount of debt for something I'm not into, nor do I want to regret any decisions.
Over the last few months, I've just been bombarded with nothing but love, admiration and a shit ton of questions about what I do. I'd much rather spend myself helping people be the best they can be rather and it seems to me that personal training and counseling are one in the same.
So for right now, I'm going with what I have planned while keeping my options open and working on getting myself into much better shape. Hopefully my school can help me with gathering up information.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
My "diet secrets"
This post is specifically for those who have hit me on Facebook, emails and/or text messages asking me for advice.
I figured, I'd write it all down here for you for your viewing convenience. But before I begin, I must say...I am NOT an expert and I am NOT telling you this is what you should do. To be successful at any lifestyle change, you have to do what works for you which might differ from what I enjoy.
I consider myself an aspiring Paleo eater which I'm 80% there but I still have the nuts and bolts to figure out (i.e. cutting grains, less dairy..etc).
Anyhow....here are the two biggies.
My Diet
The majority of my diet is clean, unprocessed foods. I eat vegetables, fruits, eggs and meats mainly. My diet is basically high fat (yes fat will NOT make you fat), moderate protein and lower carb. It took one year of playing around with my numbers to figure this out. I felt the best on this breakdown...so I'm sticking with it.
As for the fat thing, contrary to popular belief...fat is good for you. Healthy fats which you can get from oils, nuts (and their butters), butter,eggs and meat. Fats keep full for a long time, not to mention fatty food is just delicious. Just absolutely NO TRANS FATS OR HYDROGENATED OILS!!!!
Protein is especially important when you begin an exercise program. In the beginning of a program you generally lose weight pretty quickly. But this weight is mostly water weight and your muscle mass depleting (especially if you are doing chronic cardio). By packing on the protein you can help retain the muscle mass that you already have. You will not get bigger by any means (it's impossible to build muscle in a calorie deficit which I'm assuming you already know the drill about calories). The more muscle mass you have the leaner you look and the healthier you are. However, this doesn't mean you will be the 120 pounds you are striving for. It doesn't work that way. You could look lean and mean at 140 pounds or 110 pounds. I'm not the biggest fan of setting specific weight goals for this reason, I focus on performance goals (i.e. doing a set of 10 pushups). Do whatever goals work for you, just don't get overly boggled down about a scale.
Calories in and calories out is only half of the equation. If it were simple math, I don't think America would have the obesity problem like we do. The quality of the calories matters a great deal. Yes, you could lose weight eating 1200 calories of Snickers but chances are you'd feel like shit and look like it too. But if you replace those calories with whole foods like veggies, fruit and meats you will see and feel the differences that extend far beyond the scale.
Don't tell yourself you CAN'T have anything either (just soda, it's gross). Learn to eat the bad foods in moderation. I aim to be good 80% of the time. I'd go insane if I couldn't eat pasta or have a piece of pizza now and then.
Oh, and don't touch any supplements until you REALLY got a handle on your diet.
My Exercise Program
My exercise regime consists mainly of lifting...and lifting heavy (which is relative) to the point of leaving the gym with an elevated heart rate and a sweaty mess. If you are a woman reading this, don't panic. As I said, you cannot build muscle eating a deficit since muscles require a considerable amount of energy.
I aim to do exercises that are the most "natural" like squatting and I do lots of compound movements (working two or more muscles at the same time) and exercises using my own body weight like push ups for example.
Don't work the same muscle groups 2 days in a row. Either do a split body routine or a full body workout with a day of rest in between.
For cardio, I've added running into the mix (Couch to 5K program, look it up if you are interested) and I do High Interval Intensity Training. HIIT you can do anywhere and it takes 10-15 minutes.
With HIIT you work at a medium intensity for a minute and do an all out effort for 30 seconds for running. If I'm doing a low impact cardio like the elliptical machine my sprints are a bit longer.
But to note: this is how I structure mine. HIIT you can structure anyway you want and with any cardio form of choice. You can do it with your own body weight if you wanted to.
I'm currently working on revamping my routine because quite frankly, I'm bored with it...
But those are the two biggies. The reason for strength training and HIIT is that it leaves an after burn. You continue to burn calories from your session long after you left the gym.
Also to add...quality exercise>quantity. I can assure you that I get a better workout with my 10-15 minute HIIT sessions 2 or 3 times a week vs the chick who spends 20 hours a week on a treadmill. Make it intense, not necessarily long!
Generally, I do a steady state cardio once a week...maybe a walk on the path or something. I even consider household chores and studying/going to class cardio. Life to me is cardio, if that makes sense lol.
As for wisdom I have to offer...I have a few things.
1. Take one step at a time. You cannot overhaul your entire life in one day. I've been at this for a year and I still have things to work on. It's great to set big goals, but also set small goals that will ultimately get you to that big goal. It can be anything from parking farther away, quitting soda or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. The more small goals you reach, the closer you are to the big goal and you'll be amazed to how much your confidence improves.
2. Stop making excuses. Everyone has time to workout, eating healthy isn't expensive (you just have to be creative) and I don't give a shit how much your feet hurt from your long day at work. Don't try, just fucking get it done. We all have hectic lifestyles full of road blocks. But please, don't add anymore SELF CREATED road blocks.. Anything worth having is life takes hard work and self discipline...you just have to ask yourself "How bad do I want this?"
3. Be aware of where you are getting your information from. It's best to stick with 2 or 3 people that really know their shit (and of course practice what they preach) and stick with that. Don't ask 50 people for health advice, chances are they will all say something different which will ultimately make you confused and discouraged.
4. Always recognize your accomplishments no matter how small they maybe. Own your accomplishment and be proud of them. I don't care if it's losing the first 10 pounds, doing a chin up or making it a point to walk your dog...or even opting for a piece of fruit instead of a crappy bagel.
5. Don't compare yourself to others. You can workout until your blue in the face, count every single calorie and ensure you are eating the cleanest of the clean. But if you don't get a grip on whatever insecurities that linger within you, they can and will creep up on you and bite you in the ass. As far as I'm concerned, comparison is the route of unhappiness.
I think that's all I have for now.
If you are looking for quick fixes, I won't be able to help you. Realize this takes patience and persistence and should go beyond vanity purposes.
This should be about changing your lifestyle so you can live a long, happy and healthy life both physically and mentally.
If I left anything out, or any other questions feel free to ask!
I figured, I'd write it all down here for you for your viewing convenience. But before I begin, I must say...I am NOT an expert and I am NOT telling you this is what you should do. To be successful at any lifestyle change, you have to do what works for you which might differ from what I enjoy.
I consider myself an aspiring Paleo eater which I'm 80% there but I still have the nuts and bolts to figure out (i.e. cutting grains, less dairy..etc).
Anyhow....here are the two biggies.
My Diet
The majority of my diet is clean, unprocessed foods. I eat vegetables, fruits, eggs and meats mainly. My diet is basically high fat (yes fat will NOT make you fat), moderate protein and lower carb. It took one year of playing around with my numbers to figure this out. I felt the best on this breakdown...so I'm sticking with it.
As for the fat thing, contrary to popular belief...fat is good for you. Healthy fats which you can get from oils, nuts (and their butters), butter,eggs and meat. Fats keep full for a long time, not to mention fatty food is just delicious. Just absolutely NO TRANS FATS OR HYDROGENATED OILS!!!!
Protein is especially important when you begin an exercise program. In the beginning of a program you generally lose weight pretty quickly. But this weight is mostly water weight and your muscle mass depleting (especially if you are doing chronic cardio). By packing on the protein you can help retain the muscle mass that you already have. You will not get bigger by any means (it's impossible to build muscle in a calorie deficit which I'm assuming you already know the drill about calories). The more muscle mass you have the leaner you look and the healthier you are. However, this doesn't mean you will be the 120 pounds you are striving for. It doesn't work that way. You could look lean and mean at 140 pounds or 110 pounds. I'm not the biggest fan of setting specific weight goals for this reason, I focus on performance goals (i.e. doing a set of 10 pushups). Do whatever goals work for you, just don't get overly boggled down about a scale.
Calories in and calories out is only half of the equation. If it were simple math, I don't think America would have the obesity problem like we do. The quality of the calories matters a great deal. Yes, you could lose weight eating 1200 calories of Snickers but chances are you'd feel like shit and look like it too. But if you replace those calories with whole foods like veggies, fruit and meats you will see and feel the differences that extend far beyond the scale.
Don't tell yourself you CAN'T have anything either (just soda, it's gross). Learn to eat the bad foods in moderation. I aim to be good 80% of the time. I'd go insane if I couldn't eat pasta or have a piece of pizza now and then.
Oh, and don't touch any supplements until you REALLY got a handle on your diet.
My Exercise Program
My exercise regime consists mainly of lifting...and lifting heavy (which is relative) to the point of leaving the gym with an elevated heart rate and a sweaty mess. If you are a woman reading this, don't panic. As I said, you cannot build muscle eating a deficit since muscles require a considerable amount of energy.
I aim to do exercises that are the most "natural" like squatting and I do lots of compound movements (working two or more muscles at the same time) and exercises using my own body weight like push ups for example.
Don't work the same muscle groups 2 days in a row. Either do a split body routine or a full body workout with a day of rest in between.
For cardio, I've added running into the mix (Couch to 5K program, look it up if you are interested) and I do High Interval Intensity Training. HIIT you can do anywhere and it takes 10-15 minutes.
With HIIT you work at a medium intensity for a minute and do an all out effort for 30 seconds for running. If I'm doing a low impact cardio like the elliptical machine my sprints are a bit longer.
But to note: this is how I structure mine. HIIT you can structure anyway you want and with any cardio form of choice. You can do it with your own body weight if you wanted to.
I'm currently working on revamping my routine because quite frankly, I'm bored with it...
But those are the two biggies. The reason for strength training and HIIT is that it leaves an after burn. You continue to burn calories from your session long after you left the gym.
Also to add...quality exercise>quantity. I can assure you that I get a better workout with my 10-15 minute HIIT sessions 2 or 3 times a week vs the chick who spends 20 hours a week on a treadmill. Make it intense, not necessarily long!
Generally, I do a steady state cardio once a week...maybe a walk on the path or something. I even consider household chores and studying/going to class cardio. Life to me is cardio, if that makes sense lol.
As for wisdom I have to offer...I have a few things.
1. Take one step at a time. You cannot overhaul your entire life in one day. I've been at this for a year and I still have things to work on. It's great to set big goals, but also set small goals that will ultimately get you to that big goal. It can be anything from parking farther away, quitting soda or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. The more small goals you reach, the closer you are to the big goal and you'll be amazed to how much your confidence improves.
2. Stop making excuses. Everyone has time to workout, eating healthy isn't expensive (you just have to be creative) and I don't give a shit how much your feet hurt from your long day at work. Don't try, just fucking get it done. We all have hectic lifestyles full of road blocks. But please, don't add anymore SELF CREATED road blocks.. Anything worth having is life takes hard work and self discipline...you just have to ask yourself "How bad do I want this?"
3. Be aware of where you are getting your information from. It's best to stick with 2 or 3 people that really know their shit (and of course practice what they preach) and stick with that. Don't ask 50 people for health advice, chances are they will all say something different which will ultimately make you confused and discouraged.
4. Always recognize your accomplishments no matter how small they maybe. Own your accomplishment and be proud of them. I don't care if it's losing the first 10 pounds, doing a chin up or making it a point to walk your dog...or even opting for a piece of fruit instead of a crappy bagel.
5. Don't compare yourself to others. You can workout until your blue in the face, count every single calorie and ensure you are eating the cleanest of the clean. But if you don't get a grip on whatever insecurities that linger within you, they can and will creep up on you and bite you in the ass. As far as I'm concerned, comparison is the route of unhappiness.
I think that's all I have for now.
If you are looking for quick fixes, I won't be able to help you. Realize this takes patience and persistence and should go beyond vanity purposes.
This should be about changing your lifestyle so you can live a long, happy and healthy life both physically and mentally.
If I left anything out, or any other questions feel free to ask!
Random thought:
Forget not writing in my blog. I haven't even looked at it in months! But I will say this, I find it amazing how much I've changed in just the last few months.
I'm confident, fitter, smarter and sexier.
and...DOWN 60 POUNDS! (not to mention I held on to a considerable amount of muscle as well :D)
I'm confident, fitter, smarter and sexier.
and...DOWN 60 POUNDS! (not to mention I held on to a considerable amount of muscle as well :D)
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
I've neglected blogging :(
*sigh*
I've been insanely busy between studying, working, going to class and working out that I've just completely forgotten to write...and completely forgot about the accomplishments I've achieved.
First thing first, I am just one pound away from being able to say..
"I've lost 50 pounds". I'm clocking in at a steady 183 these days. It took all my freakin' might just to break into the low 80's. With that said though, I know that I've retained a significant amount of muscle mass in the last 2 months. I chalk this up to doubling up my protein and fat consumption while lowing the carbs and sugars. Even though the scale has been tough to budge, my clothes still fit differently.
So yes, I'm beginning to see why the scale is retarded. Density=FTW.
I've been weight training A LOT harder. I've been playing around with weighted squats, dead lifts, curls, presses, row backs...mostly with dumb bells and bar bells. I lift to the point of sweating and breathing heavy. Screw you, Barbie weights!
What is most awesome, is that I REALLY ENJOY doing it. I can't wait to lift, I'm ancy to get into that weight room. This, coming from some who was petrified of it months before. Weight lifting has shown me ways of tackling my fears and owning them, which I can carry with me in other aspects of my life. It's become a passion for me
My goals now: work on improving endurance. I most certainly have strength, but I still have my heart set on running a 5k one of these days. I've dropped steady state cardio almost entirely, I know only have one day a week where I will do a steady state routine. Otherwise, it's HIIT. It's a much shorter amount of time (yay!), and considerably more challenging.
Needless to say, I feel really good. Life is so much better when your head is held a little higher. I can't wait for what the future holds for me :)
I've been insanely busy between studying, working, going to class and working out that I've just completely forgotten to write...and completely forgot about the accomplishments I've achieved.
First thing first, I am just one pound away from being able to say..
"I've lost 50 pounds". I'm clocking in at a steady 183 these days. It took all my freakin' might just to break into the low 80's. With that said though, I know that I've retained a significant amount of muscle mass in the last 2 months. I chalk this up to doubling up my protein and fat consumption while lowing the carbs and sugars. Even though the scale has been tough to budge, my clothes still fit differently.
So yes, I'm beginning to see why the scale is retarded. Density=FTW.
I've been weight training A LOT harder. I've been playing around with weighted squats, dead lifts, curls, presses, row backs...mostly with dumb bells and bar bells. I lift to the point of sweating and breathing heavy. Screw you, Barbie weights!
What is most awesome, is that I REALLY ENJOY doing it. I can't wait to lift, I'm ancy to get into that weight room. This, coming from some who was petrified of it months before. Weight lifting has shown me ways of tackling my fears and owning them, which I can carry with me in other aspects of my life. It's become a passion for me
My goals now: work on improving endurance. I most certainly have strength, but I still have my heart set on running a 5k one of these days. I've dropped steady state cardio almost entirely, I know only have one day a week where I will do a steady state routine. Otherwise, it's HIIT. It's a much shorter amount of time (yay!), and considerably more challenging.
Needless to say, I feel really good. Life is so much better when your head is held a little higher. I can't wait for what the future holds for me :)
Monday, February 15, 2010
Heavy lifting victories!
Today, I legged press more than what I weigh for the first time. I remember when I could barely lift 100 pounds on that machine..now I'm doing 190! So unbelievably proud of myself!
I'll also started dabbling in weighed squats today after a few months of just doing it with my own body weight. I grabbed a 30 pound barbell and went at it. I could have done more, but I just wanted to get a feel for it first...and practice form using that.
But...I'm beginning to realize how much I LOVE lifting weights. I look forward to getting into the weight room, and doing what all the men do. I'm not intending on getting a body builder physique (that requires way too much time to train, and you have to be a REAL stickler about diet to even get that way).
Lifting is starting to make me look a lot leaner than ever before. :)
However, I still struggle with diet. It's definitely getting better, I've been eating carbs around my workouts and decreased sugar intake. Now, I'm working on getting in more plant based carbs. It's just difficult with my living situation. I know things would be different if I were on my own (half our grocery stock wouldn't even be found in my own kitchen). But, it's not the case. No sense in whining about it anymore either, I just have to work around it to the best of my ability.
Even though I have not dropped much weight, I'm still seeing differences every time I go shopping. I'm currently in between a size 12 and 14 (which is uber annoying, lol) I'm smallest I've been in my entire life...and I feel amazing. YAY DENSITY!
It's such a GREAT feeling to walk around with your head held higher. The hard work is so worth it. :)
I'll also started dabbling in weighed squats today after a few months of just doing it with my own body weight. I grabbed a 30 pound barbell and went at it. I could have done more, but I just wanted to get a feel for it first...and practice form using that.
But...I'm beginning to realize how much I LOVE lifting weights. I look forward to getting into the weight room, and doing what all the men do. I'm not intending on getting a body builder physique (that requires way too much time to train, and you have to be a REAL stickler about diet to even get that way).
Lifting is starting to make me look a lot leaner than ever before. :)
However, I still struggle with diet. It's definitely getting better, I've been eating carbs around my workouts and decreased sugar intake. Now, I'm working on getting in more plant based carbs. It's just difficult with my living situation. I know things would be different if I were on my own (half our grocery stock wouldn't even be found in my own kitchen). But, it's not the case. No sense in whining about it anymore either, I just have to work around it to the best of my ability.
Even though I have not dropped much weight, I'm still seeing differences every time I go shopping. I'm currently in between a size 12 and 14 (which is uber annoying, lol) I'm smallest I've been in my entire life...and I feel amazing. YAY DENSITY!
It's such a GREAT feeling to walk around with your head held higher. The hard work is so worth it. :)
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Dust yourself off and try again.
Today, I trucked it out pretty early to hit up the gym. I managed to get in an hour, about a half hour of leg work and a half hour of cardio.
Though, the cardio was painstaking to get through. My body has been feeling extra shitty lately as well. Probably because I went 6 months of eating relively clean...to eating a lot more prosessed foods than I normally would eat.
Let me tell you, it's impacting my moods, my workouts and my recovery time in a variety of negative ways.
As for my moods, I feel slow...sluggish, unmotivated and blah. During my workouts (especially cardio) my energy just depletes after 20 minutes. It's now taking 3+ days to recover from weight lifting.
I know the way I have been feeling is a multi-variable thing, but I know diet is playing a big role.
So, after I got out...I went to Dave's Marketplace and stocked up on a bunch of really good produce (their produce is exceptional, so fresh!) I'm going to not focus in so much on the numbers of what I eat...other than calorie, protein and fiber count. For now, make it a goal to eat clean. Once I get used to that...I can then focus on my macronutrient split.
Besides, I'm not focused on reworking my body composition. My goal is still fat loss...I realize that I have to take one step at a time. I cannot take on everything at once, contrary what some advice givers have told me.
Though, the cardio was painstaking to get through. My body has been feeling extra shitty lately as well. Probably because I went 6 months of eating relively clean...to eating a lot more prosessed foods than I normally would eat.
Let me tell you, it's impacting my moods, my workouts and my recovery time in a variety of negative ways.
As for my moods, I feel slow...sluggish, unmotivated and blah. During my workouts (especially cardio) my energy just depletes after 20 minutes. It's now taking 3+ days to recover from weight lifting.
I know the way I have been feeling is a multi-variable thing, but I know diet is playing a big role.
So, after I got out...I went to Dave's Marketplace and stocked up on a bunch of really good produce (their produce is exceptional, so fresh!) I'm going to not focus in so much on the numbers of what I eat...other than calorie, protein and fiber count. For now, make it a goal to eat clean. Once I get used to that...I can then focus on my macronutrient split.
Besides, I'm not focused on reworking my body composition. My goal is still fat loss...I realize that I have to take one step at a time. I cannot take on everything at once, contrary what some advice givers have told me.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
First real blog post in a while.
As you can see below, it's been a tough the past 6 weeks for me. My energy level is feeling pretty low. It's a combination of school, finding time for the gym, eating right and various other economic related stresses...and of course the dreaded last few weeks of winter.
I've been kind of taking a hiatus from everything. I have not been consistent with tracking or my diet...and haven't posted much on LS. However, I've still be working out. Me without exercise is like me without coffee=USELESS. So I have not abandoned that.
I've just been finding myself completely overwhelmed with balancing nutrition with everything else. I've done my best to take advice from LS members, but many of them make it seem easy..which only frustrates me further. I'm prone for being obsessed and I'm quite the perfectionist. I've tried to so hard to focus on my macro nutrients...but at the cost of my mental health. I really don't enjoy being that conscious of my diet, whenever I attempt to reach out about my feelings to others "I make excuses for being fat". When in reality, that really isn't what it is.
How do you focus on your physical health to that extent without it effecting you mentally?
I mean, I do what I can. I work out 5 days a week, I hardly eat fast food, I drink a ton of water, take vitamins..and I do my best to eat cleaner foods. But I guess it's not enough for the results I want. My body is just stuck here...at 188 pounds.
I still find myself looking in the mirror with total disgust as to how I look...I want to change it, but I mentally cannot deal with this diet balancing in such a way without getting neurotic.
Where do you draw the line?
I've been kind of taking a hiatus from everything. I have not been consistent with tracking or my diet...and haven't posted much on LS. However, I've still be working out. Me without exercise is like me without coffee=USELESS. So I have not abandoned that.
I've just been finding myself completely overwhelmed with balancing nutrition with everything else. I've done my best to take advice from LS members, but many of them make it seem easy..which only frustrates me further. I'm prone for being obsessed and I'm quite the perfectionist. I've tried to so hard to focus on my macro nutrients...but at the cost of my mental health. I really don't enjoy being that conscious of my diet, whenever I attempt to reach out about my feelings to others "I make excuses for being fat". When in reality, that really isn't what it is.
How do you focus on your physical health to that extent without it effecting you mentally?
I mean, I do what I can. I work out 5 days a week, I hardly eat fast food, I drink a ton of water, take vitamins..and I do my best to eat cleaner foods. But I guess it's not enough for the results I want. My body is just stuck here...at 188 pounds.
I still find myself looking in the mirror with total disgust as to how I look...I want to change it, but I mentally cannot deal with this diet balancing in such a way without getting neurotic.
Where do you draw the line?
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Disgusted.
I've been having a tough time the past few days...eating with reckless abandon. I'm not sure if it's partly due to stress, and getting the hang of my ridiculous new schedule or the last few weeks of winter.
Lately, I've just been hating being at the gym. I hate the noise, the people and overall structure of the place. Maybe I'm experiencing vitamin D deficiency. I'm itching to get out and go hiking or something.
I absolutely need to get myself back on track.
*sigh*
Lately, I've just been hating being at the gym. I hate the noise, the people and overall structure of the place. Maybe I'm experiencing vitamin D deficiency. I'm itching to get out and go hiking or something.
I absolutely need to get myself back on track.
*sigh*
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Feelin'....good.
I am officially down 45 pounds...which leaves me at 187. Freakin' finally. All January I've been busting my ass just to creep into the 180's, which was proving to be difficult. However, January I've been trying extra hard to get in more protein...as a result, I've retained a TON of muscles. One morning I woke up and randomly had biceps, and definition in my quads.
WOO!
Also, the last few weeks I've been trying harder to get in proper nutrition. I've been eating more veggies, aiming to eat carbs around my workouts and increase my fat and protein consumption with leaner meats. Honestly, I feel freakin' awesome. I get random spurts of energy, where I'll just clean my house in 45 minutes. SCORE!
I just cannot wait to be able to say "I've lost 50 pounds". I mean...that's a huge amount of weight! I'm anticipating buying a bathing suit and various other summer clothes. I may just wear shorter shorts this summer!!! :D
I've never felt this good physically, and I'm aiming to feel good emotionally as well.
Actually, over the weekend I had a heart to heart with my "ex", you know..the one that I mentioned that doubted me. We talked for a few hours about me, him and our insecurities. The air was cleared, he hates that I'm so insecure about my body...and just gave me reassurance that he never judged me based on my weight. Quite frankly, he says he loved my body...even when I was 232 pounds. It made me feel good, and I don't have so much weight on shoulders in regards to him anymore. The confidence is building, slowly but surely.
I can shop XL tee's now in the freakin.....JUNIORS section. It's little things such as this that will help me in the long run. Though, I feel being fat might have been a blessing on my budget...I love to shop. I might be in danger now that I'm leaner. Haha.
This week, I also started my last semester at CCRI. It's gonna be a tough one. 3 Math intensive courses and Asian Civ. FML! I had a few food planning fails this week because of it, but it was expected. It usually takes me a good 3 weeks to really get the hang out my routine. I'm just hoping I'm gonna end with a bang, these classes I'm in are extremely hard. I hate myself for not balancing out my classes better when I first started, but oh well.
Uhh, I think that's it for now. I have homework to do. :P
WOO!
Also, the last few weeks I've been trying harder to get in proper nutrition. I've been eating more veggies, aiming to eat carbs around my workouts and increase my fat and protein consumption with leaner meats. Honestly, I feel freakin' awesome. I get random spurts of energy, where I'll just clean my house in 45 minutes. SCORE!
I just cannot wait to be able to say "I've lost 50 pounds". I mean...that's a huge amount of weight! I'm anticipating buying a bathing suit and various other summer clothes. I may just wear shorter shorts this summer!!! :D
I've never felt this good physically, and I'm aiming to feel good emotionally as well.
Actually, over the weekend I had a heart to heart with my "ex", you know..the one that I mentioned that doubted me. We talked for a few hours about me, him and our insecurities. The air was cleared, he hates that I'm so insecure about my body...and just gave me reassurance that he never judged me based on my weight. Quite frankly, he says he loved my body...even when I was 232 pounds. It made me feel good, and I don't have so much weight on shoulders in regards to him anymore. The confidence is building, slowly but surely.
I can shop XL tee's now in the freakin.....JUNIORS section. It's little things such as this that will help me in the long run. Though, I feel being fat might have been a blessing on my budget...I love to shop. I might be in danger now that I'm leaner. Haha.
This week, I also started my last semester at CCRI. It's gonna be a tough one. 3 Math intensive courses and Asian Civ. FML! I had a few food planning fails this week because of it, but it was expected. It usually takes me a good 3 weeks to really get the hang out my routine. I'm just hoping I'm gonna end with a bang, these classes I'm in are extremely hard. I hate myself for not balancing out my classes better when I first started, but oh well.
Uhh, I think that's it for now. I have homework to do. :P
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Random thoughts
I went out last night to some billiard bar for my sister's show. Night was kind of boring...only drank half a beer. Alcohol wasn't jiving with me, just wasn't in the mood. But, I was being dawned over all night about my weight. Still something I struggle with, but it felt really good to hear the compliments. My HARD WORK is paying off. We got out of the show at 1AM, we are all wicked hungry....so my friends opted for Denny's. I really wasn't about going out, nor did I even plan to eat out that night. But, I tagged along. I just wanted to have some fun with my friends and not worry about calories. I didn't do TOO bad. I just got a 3 egg omelet and wheat toast. The only guilt I had was spending 12 bucks on a crap omelet. Even I could have made a better one lol. Either way, I had a good night. Got home at 4am, woke up at 9am and went to the gym for 11.
It was my cardio day, and I ran a full mile today without feeling like death. The interval running for sure increasing my endurance. I felt great today....until I brought home 2 pints of fresh blueberries. My mom insisted that she was going to make pancakes. I told her "My money paid for these, and they aren't being wasted on with junk".
Probably NOT the nicest thing I could have said, but I am so tired of their lack of support. I'm tired of them eating health food that I buy for myself. I'm tired of them rubbing junk food in my face, and the overall snotty attitudes my mother in particular gives me whenever I talk about it.
I hate living in this house, I hate that I have other people attempting to control my health habits. I have two more years left of college before I start my career and get on my own.
I should start looking for a sugar daddy.. :-P
It was my cardio day, and I ran a full mile today without feeling like death. The interval running for sure increasing my endurance. I felt great today....until I brought home 2 pints of fresh blueberries. My mom insisted that she was going to make pancakes. I told her "My money paid for these, and they aren't being wasted on with junk".
Probably NOT the nicest thing I could have said, but I am so tired of their lack of support. I'm tired of them eating health food that I buy for myself. I'm tired of them rubbing junk food in my face, and the overall snotty attitudes my mother in particular gives me whenever I talk about it.
I hate living in this house, I hate that I have other people attempting to control my health habits. I have two more years left of college before I start my career and get on my own.
I should start looking for a sugar daddy.. :-P
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Drum roll please!
I finally lost a pound...after almost 3 fucking weeks!
HOORAY!
But...with that said..I took a good long hard look in the mirror yesterday. I've noticed significant muscle changes in my back, biceps, and calves. While I'm not necessarily losing weight, I just think I'm gaining more muscle mass. I'm still fitting in smaller clothing every time I shop...so..obviously something is happening. And, the last 3 weeks I have been aiming to get at least 20g of protein in each meal.
With that said, looking at my posts the last week...I really need to quit being so damn hard on myself...and that's with everything in my life. I get so upset even if I get a B in school. I constantly trying to be the best at everything, which isn't a bad thing....but I need to learn to deal with failures and bumps in the road.
Anyhow, off to the gym. :)
HOORAY!
But...with that said..I took a good long hard look in the mirror yesterday. I've noticed significant muscle changes in my back, biceps, and calves. While I'm not necessarily losing weight, I just think I'm gaining more muscle mass. I'm still fitting in smaller clothing every time I shop...so..obviously something is happening. And, the last 3 weeks I have been aiming to get at least 20g of protein in each meal.
With that said, looking at my posts the last week...I really need to quit being so damn hard on myself...and that's with everything in my life. I get so upset even if I get a B in school. I constantly trying to be the best at everything, which isn't a bad thing....but I need to learn to deal with failures and bumps in the road.
Anyhow, off to the gym. :)
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Feeling overwhelmed.
Last night, I had a complete meltdown after my sister made negative comments about the "health food crap" that I always eat. It really hurts me that I don't have the support system I'd like from the people I love the most.
Most of the time, I feel like I only have myself. And some days, like last night and yesterday I just feel emotionally weak. Who's there to pick me up? ME.
I've learned a great deal about nutrition and exercise in the last few months. But now I struggle with taking this information, simplifying it and making it apply to my OWN lifestyle. I've had it with scheduled eating. "Oh, it's been 3 hours, need a metabolism boost!" I just recently went from eating 4 meals a day, to about 6. I really don't think this is working for me. I just feel totally overwhelmed by food and it's taking the enjoyment out of this lifestyle for me.
Right now, I just want to lose the fat. I do not care about being a sculpted muscle machine right now. I just want to eat my breakfast, lunch, and dinner...,maybe a snack or two and be on my way.
I feel weak.
Most of the time, I feel like I only have myself. And some days, like last night and yesterday I just feel emotionally weak. Who's there to pick me up? ME.
I've learned a great deal about nutrition and exercise in the last few months. But now I struggle with taking this information, simplifying it and making it apply to my OWN lifestyle. I've had it with scheduled eating. "Oh, it's been 3 hours, need a metabolism boost!" I just recently went from eating 4 meals a day, to about 6. I really don't think this is working for me. I just feel totally overwhelmed by food and it's taking the enjoyment out of this lifestyle for me.
Right now, I just want to lose the fat. I do not care about being a sculpted muscle machine right now. I just want to eat my breakfast, lunch, and dinner...,maybe a snack or two and be on my way.
I feel weak.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Personal Training
I had my first session with the trainer today. I went...alright. Not trying to be arrogant, but I felt I had more knowledge than her in terms of nutrition and how a human body functions in general. However, it wasn't a complete waste of time or money...so I'm going to address the pros and cons of my specific situation.
Pros
That is all, folks
Pros
- She showed me a few exercises that I normally do on a weight machine with free weights. For example, I could lift 70 pounds do a pectoral fly on the machine. But, with free weights just using 5 pound dumb bells with the same motion is significantly much more challenging. Dumb bells force you to use your stabilizing muscles and focus on your form.
- Second, I discovered that I absolutely love to lift weights. I'm looking forward to starting on my own.
- She had corrected my form on my squats and lunges which I was doing all wrong. So yeah, I've been wasting time lol.
- I felt we had a personality clash. I found her very quiet, boring and overall unmotivating.
- She did not provide me with consistent feedback on my form unless I was doing something wrong. Well, for me..I thrive on feedback. I need to know what it is I am doing right as well.
- She did not give me information as to why I was doing this certain exercises. I kept having to ask her what muscle groups were being used...etc.
- She didn't really give me information that I could use on my own, which is probably the catch. "Let's be as vague as possible, so they can keep paying us" kind of thing.
That is all, folks
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
A few things I would like to note...
- I am growing increasingly frustrated with how little I am losing the past few weeks. I have only lost 1 1/5 pounds this week. Yes, you are probably reading this thinking "Wtf, that is perfectly fine!" And it is, but when I started this a few months ago I was averaging a 10 pound loss each month. Now, it's likely to be 4-6 pounds. I know that if I crunch my numbers I am probably losing at the same % rate. I feel the plateau approaching. Though, a Livestrong member told me to not think of it as a bad thing. They said it's a good sign that my body is well on it's way to becoming fit. So, I keep trying to remind myself this everyday. It's just I'm a weighaholic. And I am beginning to understand why most experts do not recommend using the scale. I think today I'm gonna go to a craft store or something and purchase some tape measure...I need some new strategies. I absolutely cannot and WILL NOT let a stupid inanimate object ruin my day. Dumb.
- I booked an appointment with the personal trainer at Planet Fitness. A whopping $40. I am hoping this will be worth it. I have lots of questions for her. But, she seems like a cool chick. She looked rather thrilled to book me, given that I already know a decent amount about fitness and nutrition (still learning!). I know most of her clientel are mostly fitness newbies, so I'm sure it will be fun for her. Just hope that she challenges me, and teaches me the basics of the weight room. I've done a fair share of research on the internet, but for me...it's one thing to follow along to a YouTube video at home and another to step in the room at your gym with a shit ton of equipment standing next to dudes with biceps bigger than your face! Either way, I'm excited to learn something new. And it's a pretty big step for me in terms of my confidence level. I could honestly care less anymore about how hard I sweat, or the funny faces I make when I lift. I'm there to work out and better myself...not to look cute (hopefully this kind of attitude I can eventually carry with me when I go out to a bar...well...sort of! lol)
- Yesterday, I sorta gorged a little bit. I did fine from the morning time until about 4pm. Even though I had breakfast, a snack, a lunch and another snack...I still had hunger pangs. My body COULD just be adapting to my increased calorie consumption, but I don't know. Doesn't matter though, I gave in anyway. I had pork loin, corn and some delicious Rice of Roni pasta at a whopping 350 calories a cup. YIKES. I probably ate like 8oz of pork and two cups of this rice...and then topped it off with a piece of pumpkin pie. I'm not really sure why either, no emotional triggers. I wasn't bored. The fact of the matter is...I just wanted to stuff my fucking face...and I did. First time in MONTHS that I had gone for a second serving. I laid in bed last night feeling sort of guilty about it, but I decided that it was stupid to feel guilty over one night of eating like a mad woman. The guilt emotion is far to energing consuming, so I stopped and fell asleep soundly.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
The above picture
I found this browsing through posts on the Livestrong forum.
I find this picture inspiring, I love everything about it.
:)
I find this picture inspiring, I love everything about it.
:)
Monday, January 11, 2010
A mixture of ups and downs.
This afternoon...I squeezed in a really good one hour cardio session. I ran a mile, pushed it really hard...mostly motivated by last nights conversation with a friend. I had a really corny cry baby Biggest Loser moment going on in my head. All I kept picturing was Jillian screaming like a mad woman in my face. As much as I dislike her, it worked. After I ran that mile in a good 10 minutes, I did a brief cool down for a two or three minutes. I then did a 50 minute walk changing up my incline. I walked at a 7% incline for 5 minutes at 3.2MPH and then walked 2 minutes on a 0% incline at 3.5MPH. I felt great after, I felt like I molted or something. My legs for sure are feeling it...especially in my calves and hamstrings. I looked in the mirror today, and noticed that my calf muscles look amazing. Most men would envy them, so that is pretty nice. I might even wear shorts this summer. Hehe.
Anyhow, back to my friend that pretty much motivated me to push for the mile. We have been (what I think) pretty good friends now for a while. I like him, a lot. I always have. But, I grow frustrated because it's been over a year since I've seen him. My main form of communication with him is through AIM. We recently had made plans in September to see one another, and then he canceled on me because he was sick. I flipped out about that, said some pretty nasty things I'm sure. We then discussed a few weeks ago about seeing each other, and then he comes back from vacation with a blown out back.
So, I had asked him if there was something wrong with me. I wasn't trying to accuse him of lying or anything. The bottom line is, I've been waiting around for a year pretty much. I'm tired of it. Normally, I never have this much patience with anyone. I'm not sure why he has me wrapped around his finger...
I feel kind of bad about calling him out on it, yet I don't. I think this all boils down to trust. The pattern of behavior has been pretty consistent...so I debate whether I'm just insecure or if I am genuinely being played like a fool. He knows I'm insecure, but I don't think has a clue about what it is or why that is. It saddens me that this is the reason he doubts me.
Not just because of him specifically, but this is the reason why I want to change. I'm terrified of being alone. Someday (definately not anytime soon) I would like to have a family. It's important to me. But I can't continue pushing people away with my insecurites.
I feel like I can go months being confident, and feeling good. And then stupid stuff like this sets me back. I compare it to battling a drug addiction or alcohol problem.
I don't know how to approach him about the way I feel without him getting so upset with me. I'm afraid to make him angry. I don't know how to tell him that I've always felt like a prisoner in my body...and how much it's effected everything that I do in my life. Whenever I meet a guy, I EXPECT rejection, I expect to be made fun of and I expect to be left like a piece of trash. Maybe subconsciously, that is what I want?
When I was in 7th grade, all my friends started getting into boys. I didn't. I was still a virgin at that time. Never even kissed a boy. There was this guy in my grade that I really liked...a lot. So one day, I managed to get the courage to ask him out. I did, in a note of course...haha! He wrote me back and all the note said was "You are too fat". It hurt me. I think that started my downward spiral with my body image issues and not feeling wanted.
I've felt fat and ugly since I was four. Letting these feelings go is extremely difficult. I need mental toughness!
Anyhow, back to my friend that pretty much motivated me to push for the mile. We have been (what I think) pretty good friends now for a while. I like him, a lot. I always have. But, I grow frustrated because it's been over a year since I've seen him. My main form of communication with him is through AIM. We recently had made plans in September to see one another, and then he canceled on me because he was sick. I flipped out about that, said some pretty nasty things I'm sure. We then discussed a few weeks ago about seeing each other, and then he comes back from vacation with a blown out back.
So, I had asked him if there was something wrong with me. I wasn't trying to accuse him of lying or anything. The bottom line is, I've been waiting around for a year pretty much. I'm tired of it. Normally, I never have this much patience with anyone. I'm not sure why he has me wrapped around his finger...
I feel kind of bad about calling him out on it, yet I don't. I think this all boils down to trust. The pattern of behavior has been pretty consistent...so I debate whether I'm just insecure or if I am genuinely being played like a fool. He knows I'm insecure, but I don't think has a clue about what it is or why that is. It saddens me that this is the reason he doubts me.
Not just because of him specifically, but this is the reason why I want to change. I'm terrified of being alone. Someday (definately not anytime soon) I would like to have a family. It's important to me. But I can't continue pushing people away with my insecurites.
I feel like I can go months being confident, and feeling good. And then stupid stuff like this sets me back. I compare it to battling a drug addiction or alcohol problem.
I don't know how to approach him about the way I feel without him getting so upset with me. I'm afraid to make him angry. I don't know how to tell him that I've always felt like a prisoner in my body...and how much it's effected everything that I do in my life. Whenever I meet a guy, I EXPECT rejection, I expect to be made fun of and I expect to be left like a piece of trash. Maybe subconsciously, that is what I want?
When I was in 7th grade, all my friends started getting into boys. I didn't. I was still a virgin at that time. Never even kissed a boy. There was this guy in my grade that I really liked...a lot. So one day, I managed to get the courage to ask him out. I did, in a note of course...haha! He wrote me back and all the note said was "You are too fat". It hurt me. I think that started my downward spiral with my body image issues and not feeling wanted.
I've felt fat and ugly since I was four. Letting these feelings go is extremely difficult. I need mental toughness!
Sunday, January 10, 2010
******** (9:19:00 PM): No. This is not what this is about. This about some sort of insecurity that lingers in you.
The subject says it all.
Yep....... And at eats away at me....almost everyday. The thing is, this comment didn't even upset me. He is right. I feel emotionless right now. If my gym were open right now, I'd be there. It's the only sanity I have.
Yep....... And at eats away at me....almost everyday. The thing is, this comment didn't even upset me. He is right. I feel emotionless right now. If my gym were open right now, I'd be there. It's the only sanity I have.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
I'm all effed up.
I came to the conclusion yesterday that I am majorly under eating.
Normally, I try to eat between 1,500-1,700 calories...when I should be eating 2,100. I didn't realize how huge calorie cuts ultimately destroy your metabolism. It's no wonder why I lost 40 so quick and hardly see any muscle growth. I have been starving myself for months.
So now, I'm working on increasing my calorie intake by 100 each day...hoping to not shock my system and gain the weight back.
But, something about eating that many calories is still off putting. That is A LOT of food. Yeah, it's easy to do in a meal or two if you eat like crap but majority of my diet consists of whole foods. So, I'm pretty overwhelmed with my meal planning. I think I need to add a shake in there somewhere.
I've picked up the New Rules for Lifting for Women at Border's the other day, easily the best $11 I spent. I'm starting to understand the science behind fat loss, which does a lot to ease the anxiety.
I feel all screwed up though, both my routine and diet are wrong. I'm trying to not beat myself up over it, because fitness is really confusing. I think I've made a lot of strides that past few months. No more lazy lethargic Linz! I'm coughing up the extra dough to have a session with the personal trainer. I need her to show me the ropes of the weight room and get real serious with weight training.
That's another thing. I've x'ed out the running goal of right now. Is running a good goal? Sure, but for what I want to achieve it's pretty much the most useless exercise there is and the most exhausting. Running apparently destroys muscle mass, and isn't great for calorie expenditure as you become better at it (as with any cardio routine, really). Until I get to a good body fat %, I will not be training for a 5k. Afterwards, I can THEN focus on atheletic skills.
But, this isn't to say I can't do a quick 5/10 minute jog to warm up..or interval running...I'm just taking the focus away for running for distance/time/speed. I want to focus on building strength and stability and replacing this fat with some muscle. My goal isn't to become "thin", I just want to be healthy both physically and mentally.
Normally, I try to eat between 1,500-1,700 calories...when I should be eating 2,100. I didn't realize how huge calorie cuts ultimately destroy your metabolism. It's no wonder why I lost 40 so quick and hardly see any muscle growth. I have been starving myself for months.
So now, I'm working on increasing my calorie intake by 100 each day...hoping to not shock my system and gain the weight back.
But, something about eating that many calories is still off putting. That is A LOT of food. Yeah, it's easy to do in a meal or two if you eat like crap but majority of my diet consists of whole foods. So, I'm pretty overwhelmed with my meal planning. I think I need to add a shake in there somewhere.
I've picked up the New Rules for Lifting for Women at Border's the other day, easily the best $11 I spent. I'm starting to understand the science behind fat loss, which does a lot to ease the anxiety.
I feel all screwed up though, both my routine and diet are wrong. I'm trying to not beat myself up over it, because fitness is really confusing. I think I've made a lot of strides that past few months. No more lazy lethargic Linz! I'm coughing up the extra dough to have a session with the personal trainer. I need her to show me the ropes of the weight room and get real serious with weight training.
That's another thing. I've x'ed out the running goal of right now. Is running a good goal? Sure, but for what I want to achieve it's pretty much the most useless exercise there is and the most exhausting. Running apparently destroys muscle mass, and isn't great for calorie expenditure as you become better at it (as with any cardio routine, really). Until I get to a good body fat %, I will not be training for a 5k. Afterwards, I can THEN focus on atheletic skills.
But, this isn't to say I can't do a quick 5/10 minute jog to warm up..or interval running...I'm just taking the focus away for running for distance/time/speed. I want to focus on building strength and stability and replacing this fat with some muscle. My goal isn't to become "thin", I just want to be healthy both physically and mentally.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
40 pound mark...and more!
So, I have hit the 40 pound mark. Equivalent to losing a small child off my body. I have a tough time seeing it on somedays, after all...I'm used to seeing my body everyday. So, I have to look at old pictures to give myself a reminder as to how far I've come.
Though, I'm a little frustrated because now that I weigh less...I'm losing the weight slower. I was averaging about 10 pounds a month aka two pounds a week if you do the math. Now, I'm lucky to lose 1 pound a week. I really need to take a look at my routine and figure out where to tweak it. So far...it goes as follows
Sunday: Cardio day, usually an hour to an hour and 15 minutes.
Monday: 10 minute warm up, back and abs, 30 minutes of cardio
Tuesday: 10 minute warm up, chest, shoulders and arms, 30 minutes of cardio
Wednesday: 10 minute warm up, legs, 30 minutes of cardio
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Cardio day
Saturday: Whatever I didn't get to squeeze in.
Looking at this now, this seems so...routine. I hate it. I need to make some changes, but I'm afraid to ween off the cardio because my focus is still largely on burning fat, not building muscle.
I REALLY want to add yoga one day a week, but I've been having issues getting in contact with the place. I'd like to take a visit before I register for a class. Either way, I need something different.
I'm growing bored, tired, and gyming 6 days a week is extremely taxing on my body.
After running my first mile this week, I got a little over confident. So I decided to up the weights on my leg routines...AND practice lunges. Well, I pretty much blew out my entire ass and quadriceps muscles. I'm unbelievably sore, to the point where I can BARELY walk up and down stairs. I'm probably walking like I did the dirty deed the night before, haha.
But oh well, slight injury is bound to happen. You live and learn.
If anyone though, has any suggestions on what I can do to rework my craptastic, chore of a routine..I will gladly accept any feedback.
Though, I'm a little frustrated because now that I weigh less...I'm losing the weight slower. I was averaging about 10 pounds a month aka two pounds a week if you do the math. Now, I'm lucky to lose 1 pound a week. I really need to take a look at my routine and figure out where to tweak it. So far...it goes as follows
Sunday: Cardio day, usually an hour to an hour and 15 minutes.
Monday: 10 minute warm up, back and abs, 30 minutes of cardio
Tuesday: 10 minute warm up, chest, shoulders and arms, 30 minutes of cardio
Wednesday: 10 minute warm up, legs, 30 minutes of cardio
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Cardio day
Saturday: Whatever I didn't get to squeeze in.
Looking at this now, this seems so...routine. I hate it. I need to make some changes, but I'm afraid to ween off the cardio because my focus is still largely on burning fat, not building muscle.
I REALLY want to add yoga one day a week, but I've been having issues getting in contact with the place. I'd like to take a visit before I register for a class. Either way, I need something different.
I'm growing bored, tired, and gyming 6 days a week is extremely taxing on my body.
After running my first mile this week, I got a little over confident. So I decided to up the weights on my leg routines...AND practice lunges. Well, I pretty much blew out my entire ass and quadriceps muscles. I'm unbelievably sore, to the point where I can BARELY walk up and down stairs. I'm probably walking like I did the dirty deed the night before, haha.
But oh well, slight injury is bound to happen. You live and learn.
If anyone though, has any suggestions on what I can do to rework my craptastic, chore of a routine..I will gladly accept any feedback.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
:D :D :D :D :D
My first workout of 2010, and I started off by running my first full mile at 5.7MPH. Took me about 10 minutes.
The first few minutes I felt like death, my ankles and knees were throbbing. I just wanted to stop, but I kept telling myself I could do it. For some reason, staring at the sweat dripping down this dude's back on the treadmill in front of me seemed to keep me going. I was mentally racing him.
I just remember back in gym class in grade school, the first few classes were always those stupid fitness tests, which were always humiliating. I couldn't do anything like the other kids, now I am proud to say that I can out lift and out run most skinny girls and some of the men that go to my gym.
It's amazing to see and feel how my body is adapting and changing.
The first few minutes I felt like death, my ankles and knees were throbbing. I just wanted to stop, but I kept telling myself I could do it. For some reason, staring at the sweat dripping down this dude's back on the treadmill in front of me seemed to keep me going. I was mentally racing him.
I just remember back in gym class in grade school, the first few classes were always those stupid fitness tests, which were always humiliating. I couldn't do anything like the other kids, now I am proud to say that I can out lift and out run most skinny girls and some of the men that go to my gym.
It's amazing to see and feel how my body is adapting and changing.
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