Thankfully I am doing better getting my workout done as planned than actually blogging as planned. I think one day off isn't too bad though.
Yesterday I completed Handstand 2 which was oddly similar to Handstand 1.....except it doubled your workout and your pain. Kind of like double your pleasure, double your fun if you take some kind of sick joy in not being able to move normally the next day. I did have fun with the class so that is definitely a positive. Unfortunately, I think I really need to be working on my lower body flexibility also because it majorly PAINFUL to walk around today.
My entire day at work, where I walk A LOT, was filled with me trying not to look like I'm waddling around like a duck. "Nope I'm not doing my best charades impression, just actually trying to get healthy again. Good guess with mallard though!" I'll recover and I think to aid in that, I'm going to use today as my rest day and do my core workout tomorrow (the planned rest day. Total rebel over here)
I'm actually going back to debating on if I should get up earlier in the morning and complete my workout then. It's been a bit hard cramming everything in after work and there have been nights where we're not eating dinner until 7:30 or 8:00 which is too late for me. Getting my workout in before work would also be good for Scouters and Aug Pog. While I've been doing a lot better getting me moving, it hasn't gone as well getting them out and about as I was hoping when I started this.
Running has kind of been pushed to the back burner for now since the weather is starting to get crappier (and darker) which takes away my activity with them. Tyler and I have been doing Frisbee more often in the last few weeks than we've done in a long time so there's a positive. Basically, getting the dogs active as really fallen on Tyler because I'm completely spent when I'm done with my class for the day. I'd like to make it so we could do something as a family (ie chase Scout around the coffee table while Auggie tries to jump on us as he whines). Early morning workouts would help this too......
BUT SLEEP!!!
As you can tell, still quite the debate. For now, I'm just going to go waddle over to stretch some where I'm sure I'll have all the furry help I can stand.
FITBIT for the Week
Steps: 62,186
Distance: 28.48 mi
Floors Climbed: 74
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
Saturday, September 26, 2015
Guilt Trip Express
It's Saturday and after I make it through today's workout, I will have officially completed week 1 of the Handstand Entry Series!
I'm taking a minute to revel in that fact because I haven't been able to stick to any kind of workout routine in such a long time that this is a mini victory in itself. My shoulders are definitely getting some major action along with my core, but for as much as I feel like I'm going to keel over (I'm looking at you Core 1/2), I'm actually no where near as sore as I thought I would be. The workouts are still demanding, but they're feeling easier for me at the same time.
What's not getting easier for me is attempting to workout when I'm the only one home. Tyler is out at the moment and I actually attempted to finish week 1 just a bit ago but walked out of the office with extreme failure....and frustration. At first I tried leaving the door open because the dogs like knowing where their people are at all times. They are SUPER needy with Auggie being the worst of the two. Of course the warm up for today includes jumping jacks. I'll remind you that Auggie loves to jump on people. This did not go well. After being jumped on and yelling at him multiple times (Scout just play bowed to me) I ended up throwing them out and shutting the door. Scout doesn't like it when I yell because it means she's in trouble, so she hightailed it out of there. Auggie on the other hand proceeded to whine and scratch at the door. (SUPER NEEDY) This pretty much killed any motivation and focus that I had so I'll try to complete it when Tyler gets home and can keep them busy.
I love my dogs.
They drive me insane but I love them. People tease Tyler and I about how we treat them like our kids, and we really do. This is why after I proceed to get frustrated at them for disrupting my workout, I think get 10 times more frustrated at myself for yelling at them. When Scout timidly prances up to me with her ears down because she thinks I might still be mad it tears me up and she instantly gets cuddles and maybe a treat. (Although I think she's starting to catch on and use that against me). Then she's all about getting her chin scratched. Auggie just wiggles up to me lovingly like nothing ever happened. Some days I think he either has a selective memory or just is that quick to forgive. Even now as I'm using the foot he isn't laying on to rub his back, his little tail and butt are wiggling. Like a true dog parent (or parent in general I think) even when other people think our dogs are annoying, I can't help but think of times like this and go "how did we get so lucky?"
Snuggles and maybe a bit of fruit Popsicle are in order for the puppies. They won't realize that they're getting it because I think I'm terrible for putting my workout over them, but I think they'll appreciate it all the same.
I'm taking a minute to revel in that fact because I haven't been able to stick to any kind of workout routine in such a long time that this is a mini victory in itself. My shoulders are definitely getting some major action along with my core, but for as much as I feel like I'm going to keel over (I'm looking at you Core 1/2), I'm actually no where near as sore as I thought I would be. The workouts are still demanding, but they're feeling easier for me at the same time.
What's not getting easier for me is attempting to workout when I'm the only one home. Tyler is out at the moment and I actually attempted to finish week 1 just a bit ago but walked out of the office with extreme failure....and frustration. At first I tried leaving the door open because the dogs like knowing where their people are at all times. They are SUPER needy with Auggie being the worst of the two. Of course the warm up for today includes jumping jacks. I'll remind you that Auggie loves to jump on people. This did not go well. After being jumped on and yelling at him multiple times (Scout just play bowed to me) I ended up throwing them out and shutting the door. Scout doesn't like it when I yell because it means she's in trouble, so she hightailed it out of there. Auggie on the other hand proceeded to whine and scratch at the door. (SUPER NEEDY) This pretty much killed any motivation and focus that I had so I'll try to complete it when Tyler gets home and can keep them busy.
I love my dogs.
They drive me insane but I love them. People tease Tyler and I about how we treat them like our kids, and we really do. This is why after I proceed to get frustrated at them for disrupting my workout, I think get 10 times more frustrated at myself for yelling at them. When Scout timidly prances up to me with her ears down because she thinks I might still be mad it tears me up and she instantly gets cuddles and maybe a treat. (Although I think she's starting to catch on and use that against me). Then she's all about getting her chin scratched. Auggie just wiggles up to me lovingly like nothing ever happened. Some days I think he either has a selective memory or just is that quick to forgive. Even now as I'm using the foot he isn't laying on to rub his back, his little tail and butt are wiggling. Like a true dog parent (or parent in general I think) even when other people think our dogs are annoying, I can't help but think of times like this and go "how did we get so lucky?"
Snuggles and maybe a bit of fruit Popsicle are in order for the puppies. They won't realize that they're getting it because I think I'm terrible for putting my workout over them, but I think they'll appreciate it all the same.
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Sick Day
Today was a rest day with the Gymnastic Bodies online course so I had planned on running around outside with the dogs. Lots of Frisbee, some chase, and just letting them be out in some open space. You'd think with how often I say that we throw the Frisbee for them, that they would get tired of it. NOPE! Those two are absolutely CRAZY about it. If I'm just holding it in my hand trying to let them rest, Auggie will do everything short of using his mouth to make the throwing motion of my arm to get that thing in the air. Jumping straight up, smacking it with his nose or paw, jumping and nudging my arm. You name it, he does it.
Scout gets excited but for the most part she's realized that rests aren't so bad. She'll lay down in front of me for a few minutes and then pop up and tap the Frisbee in my hand when she's ready to sprint has fast as her legs will go again.
Unfortunately, what was just going to be a rest day from my workouts turned into a rest day for the whole family. Tyler was sick and so was Auggie apparently. I got an email at work telling me that the poor little guy was throwing up this morning. Neither of us are sure what caused it but one thing is for sure, he's the most pathetic thing ever when he's sick. Think of the bad puppy face that dogs get, combined with him attempting to tuck his non-existent tail and still managing to wiggle but at a much slower rate. Makes me want to do nothing but curl up with him on the couch all day.
Auggie's doing better now for the most part. I think it's going to take him till tomorrow to get his energy up again (he's currently passed out on top of Tyler) but at least he hasn't thrown up since this morning. Scout has been pretty sympathetic and is showing her caring by taking up all the space next to me on the couch. Obviously her slowly pushing me off the cushions while being snuggled under the blanket is her way of showing her love.
Tomorrow we all should be able to get back to making ourselves into better humans/puppies. Depending on how the dogs and Tyler are, outside time may be cut short. I'm happy to report that I COMPLETED the Core 1/2 class (I'm so happy to say that I finished it this time!) so I will be completing the first Tuckup class tomorrow. I'll let you know how it goes!
FITBIT Stats for the last week
Steps: 61,407
Distance: 28.12 mi
Floors Climbed: 90
Scout gets excited but for the most part she's realized that rests aren't so bad. She'll lay down in front of me for a few minutes and then pop up and tap the Frisbee in my hand when she's ready to sprint has fast as her legs will go again.
Unfortunately, what was just going to be a rest day from my workouts turned into a rest day for the whole family. Tyler was sick and so was Auggie apparently. I got an email at work telling me that the poor little guy was throwing up this morning. Neither of us are sure what caused it but one thing is for sure, he's the most pathetic thing ever when he's sick. Think of the bad puppy face that dogs get, combined with him attempting to tuck his non-existent tail and still managing to wiggle but at a much slower rate. Makes me want to do nothing but curl up with him on the couch all day.
Auggie's doing better now for the most part. I think it's going to take him till tomorrow to get his energy up again (he's currently passed out on top of Tyler) but at least he hasn't thrown up since this morning. Scout has been pretty sympathetic and is showing her caring by taking up all the space next to me on the couch. Obviously her slowly pushing me off the cushions while being snuggled under the blanket is her way of showing her love.
Tomorrow we all should be able to get back to making ourselves into better humans/puppies. Depending on how the dogs and Tyler are, outside time may be cut short. I'm happy to report that I COMPLETED the Core 1/2 class (I'm so happy to say that I finished it this time!) so I will be completing the first Tuckup class tomorrow. I'll let you know how it goes!
FITBIT Stats for the last week
Steps: 61,407
Distance: 28.12 mi
Floors Climbed: 90
Monday, September 21, 2015
Gold Star Day
Handstand 1 is a success! (again)
My shoulders are shaking yet again, but it was actually pretty awesome to do this workout for a second time. Even though I haven't really had the time to build up muscles/stamina yet (I won't delude myself into thinking I can get fit in a week with only a couple classes), it seemed like it was easier to complete the workout. This is most likely because I knew what was coming. The other thing that I think made today an easy day is that as soon as I walked in the door from work, I pet the dogs and then went and changed into workout clothes. No procrastinating. And I was efficient as all get out! *pats self on back while wincing*
Tyler is probably the biggest factor in me getting the workout done efficiently. He's currently doing the running with the dogs portion of the family workout. They're on their second round of frisbee and chase in the yard and I think it's his goal to keep them going for at least 45 minutes (small breaks too! they're still working on stamina just like their mom).
Today I'm really proud of our little family. We got home and got to exercising like we should be. No whining from me or Tyler, especially me. Scout and Auggie are getting their manners back down for getting their collars put on and going into the front yard. All in all, I think that this is going to be the day that I measure the other days this week against.
If I had the stickers that you used to get in kindergarten, today would definitely be a gold star day on the calendar.
My shoulders are shaking yet again, but it was actually pretty awesome to do this workout for a second time. Even though I haven't really had the time to build up muscles/stamina yet (I won't delude myself into thinking I can get fit in a week with only a couple classes), it seemed like it was easier to complete the workout. This is most likely because I knew what was coming. The other thing that I think made today an easy day is that as soon as I walked in the door from work, I pet the dogs and then went and changed into workout clothes. No procrastinating. And I was efficient as all get out! *pats self on back while wincing*
Tyler is probably the biggest factor in me getting the workout done efficiently. He's currently doing the running with the dogs portion of the family workout. They're on their second round of frisbee and chase in the yard and I think it's his goal to keep them going for at least 45 minutes (small breaks too! they're still working on stamina just like their mom).
Today I'm really proud of our little family. We got home and got to exercising like we should be. No whining from me or Tyler, especially me. Scout and Auggie are getting their manners back down for getting their collars put on and going into the front yard. All in all, I think that this is going to be the day that I measure the other days this week against.
If I had the stickers that you used to get in kindergarten, today would definitely be a gold star day on the calendar.
Sunday, September 20, 2015
Week 2
As we're scrambling to get all the chores done early today, it just makes me realize how little I actually accomplished as far as much workout goals last week. Don't get me wrong. Two workouts is pretty impressive for me. I just don't think that's enough progress. Being excessively sore can be a reason to skip one day, but more than that is just making excuses.
I let life get in the way. There's really no other way to put it. The workouts weren't as much of a priority as they should have been so they were easy to skip.
Because of that, I'm going to redo the first week of the handstands course. (Is it really redoing if I only did half???) How about, I'm going to complete the first week. I think that's better. It's going to be another busy week and it's going to be another challenge, but I need to pick myself up and keep trying.
I especially need to get Scout moving with me. Not that she's crazy overweight or anything, but she isn't looking like the lean, mean, bird hunting machine that she is. (or Auggie stalking machine since he seems to be her favorite thing to point.) It seems like we're building up some of their stamina since both Scout and Auggie are lasting longer and longer with frisbee, but we need to make it a habit with them, just like I need to do for me.
I let life get in the way. There's really no other way to put it. The workouts weren't as much of a priority as they should have been so they were easy to skip.
Because of that, I'm going to redo the first week of the handstands course. (Is it really redoing if I only did half???) How about, I'm going to complete the first week. I think that's better. It's going to be another busy week and it's going to be another challenge, but I need to pick myself up and keep trying.
I especially need to get Scout moving with me. Not that she's crazy overweight or anything, but she isn't looking like the lean, mean, bird hunting machine that she is. (or Auggie stalking machine since he seems to be her favorite thing to point.) It seems like we're building up some of their stamina since both Scout and Auggie are lasting longer and longer with frisbee, but we need to make it a habit with them, just like I need to do for me.
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Go Doggie Go
Woops! No post yesterday.
It was a very busy day and rather than finish the workout that I started on Wednesday, I ended up playing frisbee and running around with Scout and Auggie in the yard. They seemed to enjoy it way more than watching me do a work out. Lots of sprinting between the three of us and plenty of acrobatics and tumbles for them. Overall, a very good way to spend the afternoon.
Today's activity is inside because it's been pouring rain off and on. My workout has been put off due to me being lazy and still sore. Not a good excuse, but I'm just burned out at the moment. That combined with the fact that I feel like I need to speed clean my house for company coming over tomorrow.....that counts as a workout in itself.
I've also decided that I'll post my fitbit results weekly when they send out my little updates. It's just too cumbersome to try and post daily. Same with workouts. MWF + either Sat or Sun seems much more reasonable to me. However I will be skipping tomorrow due to the company being here.
In the mean time, I have two puppies wrestling at my feet that need to be chased!
It was a very busy day and rather than finish the workout that I started on Wednesday, I ended up playing frisbee and running around with Scout and Auggie in the yard. They seemed to enjoy it way more than watching me do a work out. Lots of sprinting between the three of us and plenty of acrobatics and tumbles for them. Overall, a very good way to spend the afternoon.
Today's activity is inside because it's been pouring rain off and on. My workout has been put off due to me being lazy and still sore. Not a good excuse, but I'm just burned out at the moment. That combined with the fact that I feel like I need to speed clean my house for company coming over tomorrow.....that counts as a workout in itself.
I've also decided that I'll post my fitbit results weekly when they send out my little updates. It's just too cumbersome to try and post daily. Same with workouts. MWF + either Sat or Sun seems much more reasonable to me. However I will be skipping tomorrow due to the company being here.
In the mean time, I have two puppies wrestling at my feet that need to be chased!
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
White flags
Today's workout was supposed to be Core 1/2. It's a very basic circuit style workout where you move from static to dynamic core work. What I did of it I'm sure I'll feel tomorrow.
I say that's what the workout was supposed to be because I did not finish it. Really I only got half way in before I stopped. While my abs were starting to burn, that wasn't the reason that I decided to postpone the second half. It was because I was so upset and angry.
The attitude that I start workouts with sets the tone for what I'm going to do. Today was an especially bad day at work and rather than working out all my emotions, I was just building them up. Between the mental screaming that I was doing and the guilt I was heaping on myself for ignoring the dogs when I got home in an attempt to try and calm down, it was just a brewing storm.
There are some moves in Core 1/2 that I have trouble coordinating my body with, side V ups are my enemy. I've always struggled with feeling like I'm activating the right muscles while doing this motion. This was what killed it for me today. Rather than attempting to get better at something, I was just getting more and more frustrated.
I knew that this was just going to get worse if I didn't stop.
There is a difference between being frustrated because you're doing something hard and being frustrated because you started that way. On a normal day, I would have let that frustration push me to try and get better at the stupid V ups. If I had continued to push myself through the workout today, I think it would have been detrimental to my goal of getting back into a rhythm/schedule of working out & being active. My work caused frustration would have carried over and been directed at the classes which is likely to slow me down on doing them. I just started to be excited about the idea of doing planned workouts again and I don't want to crush that.
Mentally, I just needed a win today. Something easy, something I felt good at. That was just not happening. And you know what? Throwing up a white flag sometimes is okay. I just have to recognize when to do it.
I'm proud that I at least attempted to do the workout today. There are going to be really bad days sometimes when I just want to scream and throw things. I'm proud that I didn't let this attitude make me completely skip my workout like I would have done before. Part of me was hoping that it would channel that rage into something else today, but it's okay that it didn't. Right now I'm focusing on my small victory of pushing myself to get started today even if I didn't finish.
Tomorrow I'll complete the exercise so I don't fall behind on the week but I'll do it without feeling guilty.
Fitbit
Steps:12, 230
Distance: 5.6 miles
Calories: 2,220
Elevation: 18 floors
I say that's what the workout was supposed to be because I did not finish it. Really I only got half way in before I stopped. While my abs were starting to burn, that wasn't the reason that I decided to postpone the second half. It was because I was so upset and angry.
The attitude that I start workouts with sets the tone for what I'm going to do. Today was an especially bad day at work and rather than working out all my emotions, I was just building them up. Between the mental screaming that I was doing and the guilt I was heaping on myself for ignoring the dogs when I got home in an attempt to try and calm down, it was just a brewing storm.
There are some moves in Core 1/2 that I have trouble coordinating my body with, side V ups are my enemy. I've always struggled with feeling like I'm activating the right muscles while doing this motion. This was what killed it for me today. Rather than attempting to get better at something, I was just getting more and more frustrated.
I knew that this was just going to get worse if I didn't stop.
There is a difference between being frustrated because you're doing something hard and being frustrated because you started that way. On a normal day, I would have let that frustration push me to try and get better at the stupid V ups. If I had continued to push myself through the workout today, I think it would have been detrimental to my goal of getting back into a rhythm/schedule of working out & being active. My work caused frustration would have carried over and been directed at the classes which is likely to slow me down on doing them. I just started to be excited about the idea of doing planned workouts again and I don't want to crush that.
Mentally, I just needed a win today. Something easy, something I felt good at. That was just not happening. And you know what? Throwing up a white flag sometimes is okay. I just have to recognize when to do it.
I'm proud that I at least attempted to do the workout today. There are going to be really bad days sometimes when I just want to scream and throw things. I'm proud that I didn't let this attitude make me completely skip my workout like I would have done before. Part of me was hoping that it would channel that rage into something else today, but it's okay that it didn't. Right now I'm focusing on my small victory of pushing myself to get started today even if I didn't finish.
Tomorrow I'll complete the exercise so I don't fall behind on the week but I'll do it without feeling guilty.
Fitbit
Steps:12, 230
Distance: 5.6 miles
Calories: 2,220
Elevation: 18 floors
Monday, September 14, 2015
Bring on the Handstands!
Phew! I did my first online class today and while I'd like to say that a 15 minute workout was easy-peasy, that would be a lie. Gymnastic Bodies actually has a Handstand Entry Series where it plans out 4 weeks worth of workouts using the classes for you so I figured I'd give that a shot. Who doesn't love playing around with handstands??
Today's course was Handstand 1 (intro to handstands) and it worked my shoulders and hamstrings much more than I thought it would. My shoulders are a constant source of irritation to me because it seems like they are always tight. This has gotten to the point were I've started getting targeted massages about every 1.5 months to help with my lack of shoulder mobility. Thank you computers.
The workout today was good because I got to stretch my shoulders out a bit, but also because it feels like I started working them in a way that will actually build up some strength. I might be overly optimistic here, but I'm hoping that if I stick with it long enough it'll help alleviate the tightness/stiffness.
The hamstrings was a surprise to me. I forgot that it actually takes leg strength to kick up into handstands! As I type this at my coffee table, my forearms are actually resting on my thighs. Which are shaking.
It's a bit humbling that 15 minutes can leave me sweaty and the beginnings of sore. That time frame used to just be a warm up. Definitely puts in perspective how your body changes with time. Granted my shoulders have never been worked in such a way.
Dogs were so so. I decided to work out in the office with the door open and they both went through spurts of being awesome and being a pain. Movement seems to make them think I'm playing so they definitely get called by Tyler if I'm going to be doing something dynamic. Push-ups are hard enough as it is without a 60 lb dog trying to jump on you.
What's most encouraging today is that while it's a bit shocking to me that a short workout can put me in this position, I'm excited to do my next class tomorrow. I can't remember the last time I was excited to do a workout. That in itself is a win.
Fitbit Stats
Steps: 8104
Distance: 3.71 mi (Disclaimer: I don't think my stride length is set quite right)
Calories: 1958
Elevation: 9 floors
Today's course was Handstand 1 (intro to handstands) and it worked my shoulders and hamstrings much more than I thought it would. My shoulders are a constant source of irritation to me because it seems like they are always tight. This has gotten to the point were I've started getting targeted massages about every 1.5 months to help with my lack of shoulder mobility. Thank you computers.
The workout today was good because I got to stretch my shoulders out a bit, but also because it feels like I started working them in a way that will actually build up some strength. I might be overly optimistic here, but I'm hoping that if I stick with it long enough it'll help alleviate the tightness/stiffness.
The hamstrings was a surprise to me. I forgot that it actually takes leg strength to kick up into handstands! As I type this at my coffee table, my forearms are actually resting on my thighs. Which are shaking.
It's a bit humbling that 15 minutes can leave me sweaty and the beginnings of sore. That time frame used to just be a warm up. Definitely puts in perspective how your body changes with time. Granted my shoulders have never been worked in such a way.
Dogs were so so. I decided to work out in the office with the door open and they both went through spurts of being awesome and being a pain. Movement seems to make them think I'm playing so they definitely get called by Tyler if I'm going to be doing something dynamic. Push-ups are hard enough as it is without a 60 lb dog trying to jump on you.
What's most encouraging today is that while it's a bit shocking to me that a short workout can put me in this position, I'm excited to do my next class tomorrow. I can't remember the last time I was excited to do a workout. That in itself is a win.
Fitbit Stats
Steps: 8104
Distance: 3.71 mi (Disclaimer: I don't think my stride length is set quite right)
Calories: 1958
Elevation: 9 floors
Sunday, September 13, 2015
Workout Plan Take 1
After trying the free online class from Gymnastic Bodies, I decided to go ahead and sign up for a month of access to all their classes. Even though I couldn't do the entire workout since I'm definitely not at the intermediate stage yet, I like how they structure the class and the "intensity" level. The instructors in the video are pretty laid back which gives the workout an entirely different feel than the "Okay here we go!!!" attitude that you see in a lot of videos. If you've ever done P90X you know what I'm talking about.
The more relaxed atmosphere the instructor's attitude creates makes me more comfortable trying things that I haven't done before. Let's face it, most of the work they're doing is gymnastics related so while I may have done a variation of the exercise, chances are it's all going to be new to me.
I'm also excited that they have different class levels (beginner, intermediate, advanced). As a beginner, I want to do beginner things. Don't try to make me do the same workout as people who've been doing this stuff for years. I have a very hard time with wanting to be the best in the class and "winning" the workout. When I'm constantly pitted against something that I feel I can't win at, I quit rather than get frustrated over and over again. This means that when I have no idea how to do the moves or am constantly working with people who are obviously better at sticking to a work out routine, I'll leave a workout feeling upset and defeated. 99% of the time, I haven't gone back to things that make me feel this way.
Here's my workout plan for the week:
Monday: Online Class (30-45 minutes)
Tuesday: Short run (weather permitting) OR Online class
Wednesday: Short class (15 minute) & frisbee with puppies
Thursday: Online Class (30-45 minutes)
Friday: Rest (Walking!)
With these, I'm going to do a short post everyday talking about what I did, and I'll post my Fitbit results. Even though I don't know if people actually read this or would ever be interested, it makes me feel accountable so I'm hoping to use that as a motivator.
Oh and Scout was very good during the workout today. She just came and laid next to me and chewed an antler. Occasionally she did some of the stretching because it looked like I was play bowing to her. Too cute. Auggie.....let's just say he isn't welcome in the room while I'm working out for now.
The more relaxed atmosphere the instructor's attitude creates makes me more comfortable trying things that I haven't done before. Let's face it, most of the work they're doing is gymnastics related so while I may have done a variation of the exercise, chances are it's all going to be new to me.
I'm also excited that they have different class levels (beginner, intermediate, advanced). As a beginner, I want to do beginner things. Don't try to make me do the same workout as people who've been doing this stuff for years. I have a very hard time with wanting to be the best in the class and "winning" the workout. When I'm constantly pitted against something that I feel I can't win at, I quit rather than get frustrated over and over again. This means that when I have no idea how to do the moves or am constantly working with people who are obviously better at sticking to a work out routine, I'll leave a workout feeling upset and defeated. 99% of the time, I haven't gone back to things that make me feel this way.
Here's my workout plan for the week:
Monday: Online Class (30-45 minutes)
Tuesday: Short run (weather permitting) OR Online class
Wednesday: Short class (15 minute) & frisbee with puppies
Thursday: Online Class (30-45 minutes)
Friday: Rest (Walking!)
With these, I'm going to do a short post everyday talking about what I did, and I'll post my Fitbit results. Even though I don't know if people actually read this or would ever be interested, it makes me feel accountable so I'm hoping to use that as a motivator.
Oh and Scout was very good during the workout today. She just came and laid next to me and chewed an antler. Occasionally she did some of the stretching because it looked like I was play bowing to her. Too cute. Auggie.....let's just say he isn't welcome in the room while I'm working out for now.
Saturday, September 12, 2015
Workout how?
Something that I struggle with constantly is not only how to fit in a workout, but what to even do for a workout. I look at people that I know who manage to work a full time job AND workout on a regular basis and go "PLEASE TEACH ME YOUR WAYS!!!" because it just doesn't seem to happen for me.
I work a full time job and by the time that I get home everyday, I'm pretty burnt out. The idea of getting dressed in workout gear and leaving the house again to do a work out just makes me sink further into the couch and convince myself that I'm fine as I am. I'm also good at making mental road blocks for myself. As soon as I get in the door, I'm already trying to think of what to make for dinner, how to get the dogs outside for a little exercise (if I'm not too tired), and how to finish out my night. Doesn't seem to leave a lot of room in that schedule to spend time working out.
Many people say that working out in the morning before work is the best for them. To them I say I would love to, but I also love to sleep.
I wake up at 5:00 in order to get to work on time as it is. My mornings consist of trying to get myself, Tyler, and the dogs ready for the day. The idea of waking up another 30 to 45 minutes early is just a no go to me. Sleep is at a premium and there is no way that I'm willingly going to miss out on it.
When it comes to where to work out, that is also an issue. I would love to work out at my house, but that is difficult because of 1 thing....or 2 furry things. Yup the dogs. They love trying to "help" so I end up with an Auggie on my yoga mat laying underneath me or jumping over me if I'm doing plank type moves. Scout will try to be encouraging and lick my face when it's in range. While I appreciate the cute level of all this, it makes it very hard to do anything productive.
Like I've said previously, I'm attempting to get into running but that is a slow process. Right now, the place that I like to run is about a 10 minute drive away. That's not bad at all, but when I want to take the dogs with me, it becomes an ordeal. This quick 30 minute drive and work out turns into an hour in order to get Auggie and/or Scout geared up and into the truck and then go run. (do I have poop bags? Water and a bowl? Leash or GPS collars? etc) We live on a busy road where people drive WAY faster than they should and the shoulder is small. These things keep me from running directly from the house.
One way that I've tried to alleviate my issues was a membership to the local YMCA. This lasted for roughly 4 months. Tyler and I were on a work schedule that let us go to the gym at 4:45am, get a 30-40 minute workout in, and still get to work on time. (I will also point out that no animals were in our lives then). This worked well because it got us going for the day but there were some issues. First, while it wasn't quite the busiest time of the day, there was still an amazing amount of people who had the same idea we did. The idea of getting up so early to avoid crowds and then end up waiting for machines was frustrating.
Secondly, I really wanted to take part in the classes but all the ones that I wanted to do would be after work. This wouldn't be a huge issue if it weren't for the fact that it was the busiest time of the day at the Y. I love the idea of a group class and having a small community to help you stay motivated. That's the keyword though, SMALL. I do not consider a class that requires the use of the gym small.
The dogs are a major blockade when it comes to doing workouts at home which is my most preferred option right now. I've let that stop me from doing things at the house so many times that I've lost count and that has to stop. That leads into my struggle of "what do I even do to workout?" I've mentally shot down or tried so many things that it's hard to find the motivation to develop any kind of routine.
My plan right now is to try out Gymnastics Body online classes since one of my co workers rants and raves about their online courses. Poking around their website earlier, I'm actually pretty excited to give it a shot. Plus, they let you take a free 30 minute class to see if it's something that you're into before you sign up. Paying for an online class that I don't even get to see how it's structured has always been something that keeps me from giving those a shot. What this means is tomorrow, the dogs are going to get some outside time. If it ends up being something that I want to get into more and I think will work for me, then I'll come up with more options for them and me.
Tomorrow's workout: GB class tryout & walk with the doggies after the football games. (Go PACKERS!) Fingers crossed on the GB online class.
I work a full time job and by the time that I get home everyday, I'm pretty burnt out. The idea of getting dressed in workout gear and leaving the house again to do a work out just makes me sink further into the couch and convince myself that I'm fine as I am. I'm also good at making mental road blocks for myself. As soon as I get in the door, I'm already trying to think of what to make for dinner, how to get the dogs outside for a little exercise (if I'm not too tired), and how to finish out my night. Doesn't seem to leave a lot of room in that schedule to spend time working out.
Many people say that working out in the morning before work is the best for them. To them I say I would love to, but I also love to sleep.
I wake up at 5:00 in order to get to work on time as it is. My mornings consist of trying to get myself, Tyler, and the dogs ready for the day. The idea of waking up another 30 to 45 minutes early is just a no go to me. Sleep is at a premium and there is no way that I'm willingly going to miss out on it.
When it comes to where to work out, that is also an issue. I would love to work out at my house, but that is difficult because of 1 thing....or 2 furry things. Yup the dogs. They love trying to "help" so I end up with an Auggie on my yoga mat laying underneath me or jumping over me if I'm doing plank type moves. Scout will try to be encouraging and lick my face when it's in range. While I appreciate the cute level of all this, it makes it very hard to do anything productive.
Like I've said previously, I'm attempting to get into running but that is a slow process. Right now, the place that I like to run is about a 10 minute drive away. That's not bad at all, but when I want to take the dogs with me, it becomes an ordeal. This quick 30 minute drive and work out turns into an hour in order to get Auggie and/or Scout geared up and into the truck and then go run. (do I have poop bags? Water and a bowl? Leash or GPS collars? etc) We live on a busy road where people drive WAY faster than they should and the shoulder is small. These things keep me from running directly from the house.
One way that I've tried to alleviate my issues was a membership to the local YMCA. This lasted for roughly 4 months. Tyler and I were on a work schedule that let us go to the gym at 4:45am, get a 30-40 minute workout in, and still get to work on time. (I will also point out that no animals were in our lives then). This worked well because it got us going for the day but there were some issues. First, while it wasn't quite the busiest time of the day, there was still an amazing amount of people who had the same idea we did. The idea of getting up so early to avoid crowds and then end up waiting for machines was frustrating.
Secondly, I really wanted to take part in the classes but all the ones that I wanted to do would be after work. This wouldn't be a huge issue if it weren't for the fact that it was the busiest time of the day at the Y. I love the idea of a group class and having a small community to help you stay motivated. That's the keyword though, SMALL. I do not consider a class that requires the use of the gym small.
The dogs are a major blockade when it comes to doing workouts at home which is my most preferred option right now. I've let that stop me from doing things at the house so many times that I've lost count and that has to stop. That leads into my struggle of "what do I even do to workout?" I've mentally shot down or tried so many things that it's hard to find the motivation to develop any kind of routine.
My plan right now is to try out Gymnastics Body online classes since one of my co workers rants and raves about their online courses. Poking around their website earlier, I'm actually pretty excited to give it a shot. Plus, they let you take a free 30 minute class to see if it's something that you're into before you sign up. Paying for an online class that I don't even get to see how it's structured has always been something that keeps me from giving those a shot. What this means is tomorrow, the dogs are going to get some outside time. If it ends up being something that I want to get into more and I think will work for me, then I'll come up with more options for them and me.
Tomorrow's workout: GB class tryout & walk with the doggies after the football games. (Go PACKERS!) Fingers crossed on the GB online class.
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Clothing Impact
I am in love with workout clothing. Like a moth to a flame, I am drawn to brightly colored stretchy items with names/logos from Lululemon, Underarmour, and Nike. In fact, the brighter and more obnoxious it looks, the more likely I am to want to bring it home with me.
Currently I have the following gear to my name, right off the top of my head:
My lack of working out over the last couple years (yes YEARS) is what makes this hilarious and a double take kind of moment.
When I look at that list I think "wow someone has a lot to spend on workout clothing" and truly I have spent quiet a bit. (What is important to note is that I am a person who values quality over quantity in all the things that I buy. I would rather pay more up front and replace items less often.) Thankfully all the items on that list were either gifts or were bought on sale and I love wearing all of them. No one is going to know that's from 2014 and I didn't have to pay full price. Double win!
My second thought is that "gee a person with that kind of gear must work out a lot." This for me is a total lie, but I won't deny that I want you to think that and I want myself to believe that. Part of what draws me to nice work out gear is it almost makes it feel like I should get the "workout credit" just for owning it. "People who work out a lot wear this stuff, therefore if I buy it, I must work out a lot too". Marketing at it's finest. You're welcome athletic brands.
There is some merit to having clothing that you want to wear. If you don't feel good in your clothes, you're not going to want to wear them, and you really can't workout well in jeans. One of my best friends is an avid CrossFitter and diver (basically the type of person you'd expect to have the clothes I buy). She buys a lot of her tank tops and sports bras at Target because they're cheaper and they work for her. I can't wear them for comfort reasons. The trick is finding what works for you and going with that.
Right now my mission is to make sure that I stay in shape so I can continue to fit in the clothes that I've bought. That highlighter yellow tank top doesn't fit quite right anymore and I can't afford to continually get more just to make sure I always have lazy clothes that fit me. Especially because I made a deal with my husband that I wouldn't buy anything else until I actually got into a workout routine.
That's the another part of this running effort, feeling comfortable in the clothes that I have.
Currently I have the following gear to my name, right off the top of my head:
- Lululemon:
- black and white strip sports bra
- blue and green tank top
- white trail running shirt (yup that's a thing)
- Underarmour:
- highlighter yellow tank top
- black running tights
- blue print running capris
- Brooks running shoes (bright blue with lime green and purple accents)
My lack of working out over the last couple years (yes YEARS) is what makes this hilarious and a double take kind of moment.
When I look at that list I think "wow someone has a lot to spend on workout clothing" and truly I have spent quiet a bit. (What is important to note is that I am a person who values quality over quantity in all the things that I buy. I would rather pay more up front and replace items less often.) Thankfully all the items on that list were either gifts or were bought on sale and I love wearing all of them. No one is going to know that's from 2014 and I didn't have to pay full price. Double win!
My second thought is that "gee a person with that kind of gear must work out a lot." This for me is a total lie, but I won't deny that I want you to think that and I want myself to believe that. Part of what draws me to nice work out gear is it almost makes it feel like I should get the "workout credit" just for owning it. "People who work out a lot wear this stuff, therefore if I buy it, I must work out a lot too". Marketing at it's finest. You're welcome athletic brands.
There is some merit to having clothing that you want to wear. If you don't feel good in your clothes, you're not going to want to wear them, and you really can't workout well in jeans. One of my best friends is an avid CrossFitter and diver (basically the type of person you'd expect to have the clothes I buy). She buys a lot of her tank tops and sports bras at Target because they're cheaper and they work for her. I can't wear them for comfort reasons. The trick is finding what works for you and going with that.
Right now my mission is to make sure that I stay in shape so I can continue to fit in the clothes that I've bought. That highlighter yellow tank top doesn't fit quite right anymore and I can't afford to continually get more just to make sure I always have lazy clothes that fit me. Especially because I made a deal with my husband that I wouldn't buy anything else until I actually got into a workout routine.
That's the another part of this running effort, feeling comfortable in the clothes that I have.
Monday, September 7, 2015
Attempted Run
Everything did cooperate today. The weather was cool but clear, my ankle doesn't hurt, and I was only slightly exhausted this morning so I attempted a run. I say attempted because it really turned into a walk with lots of leash training. For some reason, I had magically expected Auggie to be able to run with me while on a leash and it would all go swimmingly.
Dumbest thought of the day.
Auggie has never really had any leash training at all. While we took multiple classes with Scout for training, Tyler and I never have done that with Auggie. He's much less stubborn and listens/learns so we didn't see the point. Today was the first time I think we should have done it anyway. Auggie does surprisingly well if he's walking on the leash.....when there's no one else around. If there is another person or animal in eyesight, then all bets are off and there's 60 lbs. of fluff trying to yank your arm out of it's socket. (thankfully mine is still intact. I can make myself heavy when I want to too!)
Second dumbest thought of the day: It'll be fine if Tyler and Scout go running with us.
My "run" was really about 2 minutes of running and fighting with Auggie jumping at me or trying to get to Tyler and Scout followed by another 20 minutes of walking in the opposite direction wile listening to puppy whines. It seriously sounded like he thought he'd never see them again. I'll give the Aug Pog credit, he did pick up leash walking quickly and was very good until we met back up with the rest of the family.
What we've learned from this experience: only one dog running at a time now. Unless it's Auggie.....then it might just be walking. Or slap the training collar on him and let him run in front of me.
The victory today was just getting out there. Not the one I was hoping for, but much better than nothing!
Dumbest thought of the day.
Auggie has never really had any leash training at all. While we took multiple classes with Scout for training, Tyler and I never have done that with Auggie. He's much less stubborn and listens/learns so we didn't see the point. Today was the first time I think we should have done it anyway. Auggie does surprisingly well if he's walking on the leash.....when there's no one else around. If there is another person or animal in eyesight, then all bets are off and there's 60 lbs. of fluff trying to yank your arm out of it's socket. (thankfully mine is still intact. I can make myself heavy when I want to too!)
Second dumbest thought of the day: It'll be fine if Tyler and Scout go running with us.
My "run" was really about 2 minutes of running and fighting with Auggie jumping at me or trying to get to Tyler and Scout followed by another 20 minutes of walking in the opposite direction wile listening to puppy whines. It seriously sounded like he thought he'd never see them again. I'll give the Aug Pog credit, he did pick up leash walking quickly and was very good until we met back up with the rest of the family.
What we've learned from this experience: only one dog running at a time now. Unless it's Auggie.....then it might just be walking. Or slap the training collar on him and let him run in front of me.
The victory today was just getting out there. Not the one I was hoping for, but much better than nothing!
Sunday, September 6, 2015
Beginning the Journey
I hate running.
There's no other way to say it really. I don't remember there ever being a time where running just to run was something that I enjoyed. Sure, during volleyball in high school I ran a ton but that was never just to run. It was sprints to build up conditioning for game time. How quick could you move and could you do those short bursts of speed for and hour? Two?
I'm proud to say that I was one of the most agile people on my volleyball teams all through growing up. Even at 5'8" and one of the taller girls on the team, I was beating the setters and DS/backrow girls in shuttle runs, ladders, and Russians. (nasty drill involving lots of block jumps and sprinting to the end line or ten foot line, followed be dives, rolls, etc) Probably the closest that I got to "long distance" or "endurance" running is stair laps. We'd run them for what felt like hours (it was really probably 15 minutes) at the beginning of the season because they seemed to be a quick way to build your legs up again if you were a lazy bum during the summer.
What I discovered after high school and the removal of my near daily workouts due to either volleyball playing or coaching, is that without a goal, I have a very hard time working out. I don't mean a goal like losing 10 pounds. I mean a goal like "I'm running my ass off and throwing my body around a gym floor so I can play in a game on Saturday and do well" or "I'm a team captain so I have to work my hardest to set a good example." I don't have this anymore.
When it's just you and you have no one to account to, it's hard to want to move when you don't have to. Why would I go out and run myself ragged when I could stay cozy on the couch and read or play a video game? I know that there are people who would cry out and say "But your health! Your body! You won't be 22 forever!" etc etc, guilt trip express.
Overall, I'm a pretty health person. I eat well, partially because I would rather feel better for eating my veggies, and partially because I have to. Tyler (husband) has gone through a variety of diets to try and help figure out his guts issues so I've become very good at incorporating veggies, lean meats, and different grains. Work forces me to move around quite a bit.....most of the time. When I'm on a project, I'm running in all directions for a good chunk of the day. Lots of up and down stairs and ladders so overall a decent work out. During planning though, there's about 4 main walking times, to and from the car, at lunch (if I decide to go somewhere), and the token walk to the tech code.
I have a Fitbit Charge and surprisingly even on the days that are planning driven, I still get around 8,000-9,000 steps because my office building is in the middle of the yard so it's a bit of a jaunt to get anywhere from it. So it's not as though I'm completely inactive. In fact, I know that I'm more active than a lot of people out there but it's not where I want to be at.
I am unhappy with my body. (how strange that is to finally write down) It's not because I feel like I'm fat. Yes there are a few extra pounds that I'd like to get rid of but I think that's normal. I'm unhappy because I can still remember all those volleyball games and practices where I could do whatever workout they threw at me. All the early morning plyos that I did during the summer to prep for the next season. All those things that kept my body in the shape that I wanted. I'm just not in that kind of shape now and that is the most frustrating thing in the world.
I want to get back there.....or at least as close as I can. I know that I'm not young and invincible anymore. True 25 isn't old, but some of those volleyball injuries are catching up to me. I just need to be smart and get started.
That's where Scout and Auggie come in. Our ridiculous puppies that are just as good at cuddling as they are at catching frisbees (which is really good). Both of them are in good doggie shape, but would appreciate more activity from their constantly tired parents. My plan is to take turns taking them running with me since the guilt trip that I lay on myself about how bored they must be is better motivator it seems than needing to get in shape. Auggie will be up first.
Unfortunately, that first day is going to have to wait. It's pouring rain (which I love but hit at the wrong time to keep me motivated) and my ankle is hurting when I walk (I suspect my flats aren't helping me). BUT! The weather is supposed to be better tomorrow and at the very least I plan on going for a walk.
It's not much of a start, but it is one, and honestly, isn't that the hardest part?
There's no other way to say it really. I don't remember there ever being a time where running just to run was something that I enjoyed. Sure, during volleyball in high school I ran a ton but that was never just to run. It was sprints to build up conditioning for game time. How quick could you move and could you do those short bursts of speed for and hour? Two?
I'm proud to say that I was one of the most agile people on my volleyball teams all through growing up. Even at 5'8" and one of the taller girls on the team, I was beating the setters and DS/backrow girls in shuttle runs, ladders, and Russians. (nasty drill involving lots of block jumps and sprinting to the end line or ten foot line, followed be dives, rolls, etc) Probably the closest that I got to "long distance" or "endurance" running is stair laps. We'd run them for what felt like hours (it was really probably 15 minutes) at the beginning of the season because they seemed to be a quick way to build your legs up again if you were a lazy bum during the summer.
What I discovered after high school and the removal of my near daily workouts due to either volleyball playing or coaching, is that without a goal, I have a very hard time working out. I don't mean a goal like losing 10 pounds. I mean a goal like "I'm running my ass off and throwing my body around a gym floor so I can play in a game on Saturday and do well" or "I'm a team captain so I have to work my hardest to set a good example." I don't have this anymore.
When it's just you and you have no one to account to, it's hard to want to move when you don't have to. Why would I go out and run myself ragged when I could stay cozy on the couch and read or play a video game? I know that there are people who would cry out and say "But your health! Your body! You won't be 22 forever!" etc etc, guilt trip express.
Overall, I'm a pretty health person. I eat well, partially because I would rather feel better for eating my veggies, and partially because I have to. Tyler (husband) has gone through a variety of diets to try and help figure out his guts issues so I've become very good at incorporating veggies, lean meats, and different grains. Work forces me to move around quite a bit.....most of the time. When I'm on a project, I'm running in all directions for a good chunk of the day. Lots of up and down stairs and ladders so overall a decent work out. During planning though, there's about 4 main walking times, to and from the car, at lunch (if I decide to go somewhere), and the token walk to the tech code.
I have a Fitbit Charge and surprisingly even on the days that are planning driven, I still get around 8,000-9,000 steps because my office building is in the middle of the yard so it's a bit of a jaunt to get anywhere from it. So it's not as though I'm completely inactive. In fact, I know that I'm more active than a lot of people out there but it's not where I want to be at.
I am unhappy with my body. (how strange that is to finally write down) It's not because I feel like I'm fat. Yes there are a few extra pounds that I'd like to get rid of but I think that's normal. I'm unhappy because I can still remember all those volleyball games and practices where I could do whatever workout they threw at me. All the early morning plyos that I did during the summer to prep for the next season. All those things that kept my body in the shape that I wanted. I'm just not in that kind of shape now and that is the most frustrating thing in the world.
I want to get back there.....or at least as close as I can. I know that I'm not young and invincible anymore. True 25 isn't old, but some of those volleyball injuries are catching up to me. I just need to be smart and get started.
That's where Scout and Auggie come in. Our ridiculous puppies that are just as good at cuddling as they are at catching frisbees (which is really good). Both of them are in good doggie shape, but would appreciate more activity from their constantly tired parents. My plan is to take turns taking them running with me since the guilt trip that I lay on myself about how bored they must be is better motivator it seems than needing to get in shape. Auggie will be up first.
Unfortunately, that first day is going to have to wait. It's pouring rain (which I love but hit at the wrong time to keep me motivated) and my ankle is hurting when I walk (I suspect my flats aren't helping me). BUT! The weather is supposed to be better tomorrow and at the very least I plan on going for a walk.
It's not much of a start, but it is one, and honestly, isn't that the hardest part?
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