It's been awhile....Have I ever mentioned I'm not great at keeping a blog? But here is my attempt to at least TRY to re-start.
I've been working on my overall health in a few different ways....
1) Slow, sustainable weight loss - Since Oct, I've been working on my slow, sustainable fat loss using Weight Watchers. And so far it's been going pretty well. I've been successfully eating the foods I enjoy, upping foods that are better for me than others (ie, fruits and veggies), and overall living my life without a lot of food guilt or restricting. And the result is that I've lost 12lbs. Which averages out to a 1/2 a pound a week since I've started. It's slow, but it's going. What I'm most proud of is that I've learned to incorporate WW into my life and I've tailored it to me and not the other way around. It's liberating to both eat all the foods you enjoy and also lose weight. Who knew right?
2) Drs appointments/check-ups - I HATE blood tests. They are awful for me, including lots of light-headedness and vomiting. But I knew it was time, I hadn't had blood work since 2010 and I wanted to know how my levels were. So I bit the bullet, gave the blood, passed out, threw up, and got my results. And I'm happy to say ALL of my numbers got better and some by a LOT! It's important to know your numbers, don't be afraid!
3) Therapy - yes, therapy, a shrink. I, after many, many years of avoiding it, have decided to head back to therapy. Its been almost 7 years and it's time. It's time to take care of my mental health and not just my physical health. So I start today, and I'm scared. But I got this, I can do it! And I will do it!
Keep up with my story on my Facebook, where I update much more often - https://www.facebook.com/patiencetoprogress
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Thursday, December 18, 2014
Polar Product Day - M400
Product: M400
Designed for: Runners/Walkers and people who want to keep an eye on their fitness
Price: $199.95 w/o Heart Rate Sensor; $249.95 with Heart Rate Sensor
What Comes In The Box: M400 Unit, H7 Heart Rate Sensor, USB Cord, Getting Started Literature (No Heart Rate Sensor if purchased without it)
Say Hello to Polar's newest training computer, the M400. This little guy/girl is a truly all-in-one unit, especially if you are a runner or walker.
Since around September, I have been using a Polar Loop and the Polar RC3 in conjunction with each other. The Loop is an all-day activity tracker; it tracks your activity, sleep, calories burned & steps, and if used with the H7, can be used during workouts (see my previous blog post). The Polar RC3 is a GPS and heart rate monitor, that I used during workouts & races, including my half marathon.
But this little baby, it replaces both of those! How? Because the M400 is an all-day activity tracker & a GPS all rolled into one sleek, great looking watch. Now you might be saying "Man, this Polar ambassador is really laying it on thick", but I swear to you, I'm not making ANY of this up. I am seriously in LOVE with this watch. Since the day it was announced (which of course escapes me at the moment), I've been waiting to get my hands on it! And now that my hand is on it, I'm not taking it off!
So, lets get some nitty gritty details shall we? The M400 has built-in GPS, so you can track your distance, pace, and altitude. And if you are looking for new routes on your runs, the Back to Start feature is awesome! The M400 tracks your daily activity, including calories burned and steps taken. But what I love about the unit is it tells you how much more "activity" you need to reach your daily goal (the photo above is an example. The activity can be standing, walking, or running. It's not just steps, it's any activity, which I love. This unit is magic somehow (kind of like the Loop) and can judge your movement super accurately. I hear there are tons of little sensors in it, but it got kinda technical ;)
As with the Loop, the M400 syncs up to Polar Flow (web) and to the Flow mobile app (iOS users only right now. Polar expects Android service to be up and running soon, to which I am patiently waiting)
The M400 comes in Black and White and the compatible heart rate sensor, the H7, comes in a variety of fun colors!
As always, let me know if you have any questions!
Thursday, December 4, 2014
GET MOVIN GIVEAWAY - Win a POLAR FT4
Would you like a chance to win a FREE Polar FT4? This is the giveaway for you!
Bonus entry 1: Like the Polar USA and/or Polar FB pages
Bonus entry 2: Follow me on Twitter - @abbysgettinfit
Bonus entry 3: Follow Polar on Twitter - @polarglobal
Bonus entry 4: SHARE the contest on your personal page - extra bonus - you will receive 2 entries for this!
Bonus entry 5: Use hashtag #getmovingiveaway on either Twitter or FB when sharing about the giveaway
Bonus entry 6: Follow me on IG - @abbysgettinfit
The kind people over at Polar have offered up a FT4 to give away to one of my lucky followers! So what better way to try to win it than to MOVE?! So...let's get movin!
Here is how it works...
When: Starting today lasting until December 31st at 11:59pm EST
Where: My Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/abbysgettinfit
How:
Step 1) LIKE my Facebook page. You MUST like my page for a chance to win!
Step 2) GET MOVIN' - this includes walking, running, dancing in your kitchen, playing with your kids or pups, swinging, swimming, lifting, etc and so forth! Any way you can get your body moving, do it! I don't care how long, how far, how heavy, just GET MOVIN'!
Step 3) SHARE YOUR PHOTO - share you photo in the event I have created on my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/events/892956804078001/. For every "workout selfie" you post, you receive ONE entry toward the grand prize of a Polar FT4! Don't care for selfies? That's cool, post the equipment used, the dog you walked, the kids you played with, the shoes you wore, ANYTHING! This is supposed to be fun, no pressure, no (okay, almost) rules!
Where: My Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/abbysgettinfit
How:
Step 1) LIKE my Facebook page. You MUST like my page for a chance to win!
Step 2) GET MOVIN' - this includes walking, running, dancing in your kitchen, playing with your kids or pups, swinging, swimming, lifting, etc and so forth! Any way you can get your body moving, do it! I don't care how long, how far, how heavy, just GET MOVIN'!
Step 3) SHARE YOUR PHOTO - share you photo in the event I have created on my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/events/892956804078001/. For every "workout selfie" you post, you receive ONE entry toward the grand prize of a Polar FT4! Don't care for selfies? That's cool, post the equipment used, the dog you walked, the kids you played with, the shoes you wore, ANYTHING! This is supposed to be fun, no pressure, no (okay, almost) rules!
Step 4) REPEAT! You can receive an entry for every movin' photo you post (up to 1 per day) So you can enter once a week or once a day, it's up to you!
Want some bonus entries? Here you go!
For these to count, post a screenshot as proof in the event of each
Bonus entry 1: Like the Polar USA and/or Polar FB pages
Bonus entry 2: Follow me on Twitter - @abbysgettinfit
Bonus entry 3: Follow Polar on Twitter - @polarglobal
Bonus entry 4: SHARE the contest on your personal page - extra bonus - you will receive 2 entries for this!
Bonus entry 5: Use hashtag #getmovingiveaway on either Twitter or FB when sharing about the giveaway
Bonus entry 6: Follow me on IG - @abbysgettinfit
A winner will be chosen at random from the entries! Obviously the more you post, the more chances you have, but that shouldn't mean you burn yourself out or over exercise to get more entires! This is about having fun, enjoying your body movement, and not feeling the pressure (because we have enough of that don't' we?!) And don't forget, like and comment on other people's photos in the event! This is all about having fun and encouraging all of us to move in ways we love!
Please note - this entire giveaway will take place on my Facebook page, so please read here than head over there! Any photos posted here will not be included in the entries.
US ONLY please! Sorry other countries, I'll get ya next time!
US ONLY please! Sorry other countries, I'll get ya next time!
Monday, October 20, 2014
I am a half-marathoner!
Yesterday, October 19, 2014, I became a half marathoner. After months of training, weeks of worrying, hours of doubt and anxiety, I crossed the start line AND the finish line.
In late 2013, I decided I wanted to do a half marathon and in January 2014, I signed up for the Detroit Free Press International Half Marathon. I struggled with training, quit a plan, stopped running almost completely, and than somehow finished a second plan and made it to the starting line.
On Saturday, October 18th, I headed downtown (Detroit) with my fiance to head to the Expo and pick up my packet. The minute I walked into the Expo, everything started feeling real. I wouldn't call it nerves, but I wouldn't NOT call it nerves either. It was a strange mix of excitement, nerves, anxiety, and everything else you could possibly feel.
The last 3 miles seemed to go by pretty quick, but I had to continually remind myself not to stop MOVING. Over and over again I had to keep saying "Keep moving, keep moving, don't stop, keep moving, keep moving, if you keep moving, you will be there sooner, keep moving"
In late 2013, I decided I wanted to do a half marathon and in January 2014, I signed up for the Detroit Free Press International Half Marathon. I struggled with training, quit a plan, stopped running almost completely, and than somehow finished a second plan and made it to the starting line.
On Saturday, October 18th, I headed downtown (Detroit) with my fiance to head to the Expo and pick up my packet. The minute I walked into the Expo, everything started feeling real. I wouldn't call it nerves, but I wouldn't NOT call it nerves either. It was a strange mix of excitement, nerves, anxiety, and everything else you could possibly feel.
After the expo, we went to our hotel and relaxed for awhile before going and getting something to eat. I decided on a hamburger and fries for dinner, because it never usually upsets my stomach (more on that later!)
I ended up falling asleep super early, around 8:30, which was great, because I worried I would be to nervous to sleep. Before sleep, I made sure I had everything I needed for the morning laid out and ready to go.
Morning of, I woke up at around 4:30, a half hour before my alarm was going to go off. I laid in bed for a bit than got up and started getting ready. I was strangely calm, the nerves seemed to go away, I knew there was NOTHING I could do at this point to further myself or get myself more ready, at this point, it was what it was. I had some breakfast, got dressed slowly, and put on more Body Glide than I think I have used my entire training time, and got ready to leave the room, but not before some selfies...
Our hotel was about a mile away from the starting line so my boyfriend and I headed down there, and it.was.cold!!! Starting time temps were around 33ยบ, far colder than I had originally thought. Thank goodness for my fiance, who suggested, at the last minute before we left the house, to grab another long sleeve shirt. I ended up keeping that shirt, the jacket in the photo, and a tank on for nearly half the race, the long sleep shirt came off around mile 5 or 6.
Getting corraled up was such a exciting experience. There was so much excitement and the energy was awesome! My fiance gave me a big hug and looked me right in the eyes before getting behind the fence and told me I was going to do great. That was when the water works started. I was finally here. Finally going to do this. There was not more preparing, there was no more training, it was here.
One of the main reasons I wanted to do THIS race is that it has some special aspects to it, including an international half/full marathon, meaning you get to run both in the US and Canada, crossing the Ambassador Bridge and than coming back through the Tunnel, which is UNDERWATER. This race has international border crossing AND an underwater mile, how cool is that?!
There is no feeling quite like running up a HUGE freaking hill, that leads you to the Ambassador Bridge, knowing that so few people ever get that experience. There isn't anything like looking out and seeing Canada and the US from the bridge, as the sun is rising. It took my breath away, and I'm fairly certain that wasn't JUST because of the HUGE freaking hill........did I mention the hill? Holy hell, the hill!
The first 5 miles of my race, which are usually my most difficult, were my easiest this time. The energy of the crowd got me going. But as time went on, I wasn't as much a part of the crowd, since I was further back, and I started to lag a bit. My worst mile was mile 8-9ish, which was the underwater mile. I walked the majority of it, was starting to have a lot of pain, and the worst thing happened.......I had to poop. As I was half way through the tunnel, the pain in my belly couldn't be ignored, so as soon as I got out of the tunnel, I bolted to the porta-potty. The LAST thing I wanted to do during my race was poop, but it happened. and it couldn't be stopped. But I did my business, pulled up my big girl panties (literally) and got back on the road! But after that stop, I slowed down a lot. I was still in a bit of pain in my stomach and I was just plain getting tired.
The last 3 miles seemed to go by pretty quick, but I had to continually remind myself not to stop MOVING. Over and over again I had to keep saying "Keep moving, keep moving, don't stop, keep moving, keep moving, if you keep moving, you will be there sooner, keep moving"
And than suddenly, the final stretch was within sight, I could SEE the finish line. There it was. Throughout my race, my fiance, best friends and parents let me know they were standing on the right side, near corral C, to look for them. As I got closer, the water works started again. I couldn't wait to see there faces, it'd been over 3 hours since I saw my fiance. And than suddenly, a neon green and neon yellow sign popped up, that said "GO ABBY" and there, behind the signs, were the most important faces I could see. And I started crying, tears streaming, paired with the biggest smile I could muster. I ran by them and onto the finish. I was running so fast, I was so happy to be done, I was so proud of what I had accomplished. I crossed that line, and got that medal, and wanted to collapse!
So it's over. After months and months of training, it's over. And I've never had such a feeling of pride. This is something that not EVERYONE has the guts to do, it's something that not everyone CAN do. and I both had the guts did it. The time didn't matter, it didn't matter I walked a lot, it didn't matter that I was in the second to slowest corral. It all didn't matter. What mattered was I finished, I accomplished what I set out to to do.
Now, I will continue repeating to myself that someday I will want to run again. That the pain will go away.
Now, I will continue repeating to myself that someday I will want to run again. That the pain will go away.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
You Gained During Training??
It has come to my attention that my jeans are tighter than they were a few months ago. And this doesn't make me happy.
I see transformation photos allllll day long of runners who have lost 100's of pounds, and here I am, half marathon training, and I've gained. Yes, gained. How many pounds? Not entirely sure and it doesn't REALLY matter. Point is, pants are tighter, I gained.
So how did it happen? I could spout some shit about how it is all muscle and blah blah blah. But no, muscle didn't make my pants tighter in my waist (however, muscle HAS made my jeans tighter in the calves and thighs, #stronglegsforthewin)
Want to know why my pants are tighter? Because I ate more calories than I burned. That's right, I've been eating like I'm training for a marathon, not a half. But does this mean I've failed? Hell no. I've trained for a half marathon, that I will be running in 19 days, and no one can take that away from me.
So what DOES this mean? It means that, once my half is over, I'm going to work on losing some of my excess fat. It doesn't mean I'm going to jump into a low-carb, low-cal, no gluten, Beachbody/Advocare hybrid. No, it means that once my half is done, I will give myself a few days to recover, than work at losing some excess fat, in a slow and sustainable way. I will keep moving, keep running (less miles and less often), I will add in some body weight exercise, I will walk, and I will eat for the lifestyle I live, not for the lifestyle I think I live.
Most importantly, I will remember that the number on my pants and the scale is not everything. But in order to ensure I can run for years to come, taking some extra weight off my joints won't hurt. I don't want to lose 100lbs over night (or ever probably). I don't want to lose 30lbs in 30 days. I want to lose weight as my body lets go of it, while still enjoying my life. Because THAT is what works.
I see transformation photos allllll day long of runners who have lost 100's of pounds, and here I am, half marathon training, and I've gained. Yes, gained. How many pounds? Not entirely sure and it doesn't REALLY matter. Point is, pants are tighter, I gained.
So how did it happen? I could spout some shit about how it is all muscle and blah blah blah. But no, muscle didn't make my pants tighter in my waist (however, muscle HAS made my jeans tighter in the calves and thighs, #stronglegsforthewin)
Want to know why my pants are tighter? Because I ate more calories than I burned. That's right, I've been eating like I'm training for a marathon, not a half. But does this mean I've failed? Hell no. I've trained for a half marathon, that I will be running in 19 days, and no one can take that away from me.
So what DOES this mean? It means that, once my half is over, I'm going to work on losing some of my excess fat. It doesn't mean I'm going to jump into a low-carb, low-cal, no gluten, Beachbody/Advocare hybrid. No, it means that once my half is done, I will give myself a few days to recover, than work at losing some excess fat, in a slow and sustainable way. I will keep moving, keep running (less miles and less often), I will add in some body weight exercise, I will walk, and I will eat for the lifestyle I live, not for the lifestyle I think I live.
Most importantly, I will remember that the number on my pants and the scale is not everything. But in order to ensure I can run for years to come, taking some extra weight off my joints won't hurt. I don't want to lose 100lbs over night (or ever probably). I don't want to lose 30lbs in 30 days. I want to lose weight as my body lets go of it, while still enjoying my life. Because THAT is what works.
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Polar Wednesday - H7 Heart Rate Sensor & Polar Beat App
Designed for: Various Sports/Training
Price: $79.95/App is free
What Comes In The Box: H7 Heart Rate Sensor and Strap
If you are looking for a reasonably priced training aid, the Polar H7 Heart Rate Sensor is perfect for you. The H7 is a heart rate sensor that is bluetooth enabled and links up with several of the Polar products.
You are able to plan, train, analyze and share (because a workout isn't a workout unless it's posted on FB, #amiright?)
Polar Beat will allow you to plan your training sessions, allowing you to set calorie burn or distance goals. In the Training mode Polar Beat with give you "real-time graphical and voice guidance" to ensure you are reaching the goals you set. Once your session is done, you can analyze your heart rate zones, distances, calories burned, etc, with great charts and easy to read outputs. Finally, you can share your training results to Twitter or Facebook, showing your family and friends how totally awesome you are!
The H7 is also compatible with several other Polar products, including the new V800 and the Polar Loop (which I will be doing a write-up on soon, as I've been wearing it for a couple weeks now).
The H7 comes in three great colors, Pink, Blue and Black and is waterproof and can be used in conjunction with other waterproof Polar products.
If you have any questions - let me know! Are you currently using a the H7 or the Polar Beat app?
Monday, September 22, 2014
Out of my Element
For the past 10 days, I have been dog-sitting at my boyfriend's parents house. And to say it threw off my game is a bit of an understatement...let me explain
Things related to their house that threw me off my game...
1) They live on a dirt road, that is not grated, so there are tons of holes and places for me to severely injure myself. This alone scared me out of running most days.
2) Their house is surrounded by main roads and factories, so the options for running were few and far between
3) There neighborhood is not the "nicest" so being out after dark wasn't an option for me
Things not related to their house that threw me off my game.....
1) Felt a cold coming on, the stuffy nose, the cough, the exhaustion, it was all there, just waiting to strike
2) Another type infection threatening, and I'll leave it at that
3) Lack of good sleep due to not being in my own bed
So, I'm here to admit, that with only 5 weeks left until my half, I ran a grand total of 1.5 miles last week...........ouch. I walked a 5k yesterday with a friend and we kept a good pace but actual running......1.5 miles.
But I'm not stressing. Because it's over, it's done with, and that off week certainly isn't going to make or break me. In fact, it may have even helped, allowing extra rest time and recovery of sore muscles. I'm here to tell you that "falling off" doesn't mean you failed. It means you lived, that shit happened. So are you going to sit around and beat yourself up over it for days? Or make a change. I personally plan to make a change.
Today, I am back at it. I usually run Tues/Thurs/Sun but this week I'll be running Mon/Wed/Sun, due to a hair appointment tomorrow (yup, I change my schedule for hair appointments!). 5 Monday, 5 Wednesday, 10 Sunday! Here we go!
Who's running with me in spirit this week?
Things related to their house that threw me off my game...
1) They live on a dirt road, that is not grated, so there are tons of holes and places for me to severely injure myself. This alone scared me out of running most days.
2) Their house is surrounded by main roads and factories, so the options for running were few and far between
3) There neighborhood is not the "nicest" so being out after dark wasn't an option for me
Things not related to their house that threw me off my game.....
1) Felt a cold coming on, the stuffy nose, the cough, the exhaustion, it was all there, just waiting to strike
2) Another type infection threatening, and I'll leave it at that
3) Lack of good sleep due to not being in my own bed
So, I'm here to admit, that with only 5 weeks left until my half, I ran a grand total of 1.5 miles last week...........ouch. I walked a 5k yesterday with a friend and we kept a good pace but actual running......1.5 miles.
But I'm not stressing. Because it's over, it's done with, and that off week certainly isn't going to make or break me. In fact, it may have even helped, allowing extra rest time and recovery of sore muscles. I'm here to tell you that "falling off" doesn't mean you failed. It means you lived, that shit happened. So are you going to sit around and beat yourself up over it for days? Or make a change. I personally plan to make a change.
Today, I am back at it. I usually run Tues/Thurs/Sun but this week I'll be running Mon/Wed/Sun, due to a hair appointment tomorrow (yup, I change my schedule for hair appointments!). 5 Monday, 5 Wednesday, 10 Sunday! Here we go!
Who's running with me in spirit this week?
Monday, September 15, 2014
It's The Final Countdown!
(Don't pretend you didn't sing my title.....cause I know you did.)
Yes, the final countdown. I have less than 35 days until my very first half marathon. And although I have a little over a month, I am already thinking of what it will feel like to cross that finish line, to finally be a half marathoner, to have proven to myself (and others) that a morbidly obese person can do a half marathon.
As I eagerly count down the miles (75.1) until the big day, I also, as odd as it sounds, am trying to cherish them. I want to cherish the time before the big day, cherish those good (and bad!) runs, cherish the rest days. Why? Because this experience has taught me so much about myself.
I Don't Give Up - My training started way back in January, and I had planned to do two full plans before the big day. But I completely and utterly burned myself out from January to March. I was only averaging about 25 miles a month those three months, but I was on a treadmill, I was indoors, I wasn't eating enough, and it was hard. My last long run was in March, 10 miles, on a treadmill. I watched Grease all the way through and still had time left. It was sooo mentally draining. From April to July, I averaged 14 miles a month........14 miles. I could have quit completely, ate the run cost and moved along. But I didn't. Instead, I put on my big girl panties, found a 12 week training program, and got to work. I had a half marathon to do, I wasn't going to settle for anything less. Last month I ran 40.6 miles, which is only 15.6 less than I had ran April through July. I got back on that horse in a big bad way.
My Heart Is Stronger Than My Head - I struggle with negative thoughts, doubt, & lack of self confidence. About every other run I do, my doubts start, I tell myself I probably won't be able to do it, I'll probably exceed the time limit, I'll probably pass out half way through. But, than, my heart takes over, and my next run I get out there and believe in myself. In my heart I know I was meant to do this. Sometimes I just have to remember to tell my head that.
I Am Stronger Than I Thought -
This quote sums up my experience. Before I started this, I could have never believed I could run 7 miles in a row, or 8, or even 4. The old me "couldn't" run, "couldn't" stick with a training plan, "couldn't" run more than 30 seconds at a time, or more than a quarter mile. But the new me can. I can run for more than 30 seconds, I can run more than a quarter mile, I can run 7 miles in a row, and I can turn my dreams into a plans.
Yes, the final countdown. I have less than 35 days until my very first half marathon. And although I have a little over a month, I am already thinking of what it will feel like to cross that finish line, to finally be a half marathoner, to have proven to myself (and others) that a morbidly obese person can do a half marathon.
As I eagerly count down the miles (75.1) until the big day, I also, as odd as it sounds, am trying to cherish them. I want to cherish the time before the big day, cherish those good (and bad!) runs, cherish the rest days. Why? Because this experience has taught me so much about myself.
I Don't Give Up - My training started way back in January, and I had planned to do two full plans before the big day. But I completely and utterly burned myself out from January to March. I was only averaging about 25 miles a month those three months, but I was on a treadmill, I was indoors, I wasn't eating enough, and it was hard. My last long run was in March, 10 miles, on a treadmill. I watched Grease all the way through and still had time left. It was sooo mentally draining. From April to July, I averaged 14 miles a month........14 miles. I could have quit completely, ate the run cost and moved along. But I didn't. Instead, I put on my big girl panties, found a 12 week training program, and got to work. I had a half marathon to do, I wasn't going to settle for anything less. Last month I ran 40.6 miles, which is only 15.6 less than I had ran April through July. I got back on that horse in a big bad way.
My Heart Is Stronger Than My Head - I struggle with negative thoughts, doubt, & lack of self confidence. About every other run I do, my doubts start, I tell myself I probably won't be able to do it, I'll probably exceed the time limit, I'll probably pass out half way through. But, than, my heart takes over, and my next run I get out there and believe in myself. In my heart I know I was meant to do this. Sometimes I just have to remember to tell my head that.
I Am Stronger Than I Thought -
This quote sums up my experience. Before I started this, I could have never believed I could run 7 miles in a row, or 8, or even 4. The old me "couldn't" run, "couldn't" stick with a training plan, "couldn't" run more than 30 seconds at a time, or more than a quarter mile. But the new me can. I can run for more than 30 seconds, I can run more than a quarter mile, I can run 7 miles in a row, and I can turn my dreams into a plans.Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Polar Wednesday - FT4
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| Polar FT4 in Purple/Pink Photo from Polar's website |
Product: FT4 Heart Rate Monitor
Designed for: Fitness and Cross Training
Price: $99.95
What Comes In The Box:
Designed for: Fitness and Cross Training
Price: $99.95
What Comes In The Box:
- Polar FT4 training computer
- Polar H1 heart rate sensor
- FT4 Getting Started Guide
The Polar FT4 is your basic heart rate monitor, as it counts calories burned and tracks your heart rate in relation to your Target Heart Rate Zone. The Polar FT4 is perfect for any type of cross training or fitness, and is even suitable for swimming.
Setting up and using the FT4 is simple. Upon receiving, just input your basic settings, like height, weight and gender and you are set to go!
For heart rate tracking, the Heart Rate Sensor will need to be worn. The FT4 will link with this to accurately keep track of your heart rate during workouts.
Currently, there are 4 colors available, Pink, Silver, Green, and Black.
The FT4 was my first heart rate monitor, so I can personally vouch for it's usefulness and ease. It is a quality product and once I moved on to a new device, I passed it along to a friend, whom is still using it today (she also loves it!).
For more information on the Polar FT4, you can visit the Polar website at http://www.polar.com/us-en/products/get_active/fitness_crosstraining/FT4. Or, feel free to ask me any questions you might have!
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
NUUN Review + GIVEAWAY (OVER)
That's right ladies and gents, my very first official giveaway! But first, some back story.
As most of you know, I am training for my first half marathon and I have learned the hard way that hydration is one of the most important parts of my training. I try hard to drink lots of water before AND after my runs, but up until a few months ago, I realized that even when I drank lots of water, I was still struggling with headaches for hours after my runs.
So I hit the web and started asking around, was it dehydration? something else? Soon, I was my given the suggestion of NUUN, a tablet that you throw in your water that helps replace the electrolytes you have sweat out during your workout. I was a little bit skeptical, but I went to my local vitamin store and picked up a tube of NUUN Active Hydration ("formulated specifically for higher intensity activities and/or higher electrolyte replenishment needs") in Strawberry Lemonade. I waited until my next long run (which I consider 3 miles or more) and tried it out.
I won't lie, I was really surprised with how much better I felt post run. I didn't get a headache or the sluggish feeling I usually get. I thought maybe it was a fluke, and maybe the run wasn't as sweaty as I thought. But I can now distinctly tell the difference between runs I drink NUUN after and those I don't.
So how does it work? NUUN has "the electorlytes your body needs" and "nothing you don't". The complete list of ingredients for one tablet (16oz drink) is as follows...
Active Ingredients
Sodium (carbonates) - 360.0 mg
Potassium (bicarbonate) - 100.0 mg
Magnesium (sulfate) - 25.0 mg
Calcium (carbonate) - 12.5 mg
Vitamin C - 19.0 mg
Vitamin B2 - 500 mcg
Sodium (carbonates) - 360.0 mg
Potassium (bicarbonate) - 100.0 mg
Magnesium (sulfate) - 25.0 mg
Calcium (carbonate) - 12.5 mg
Vitamin C - 19.0 mg
Vitamin B2 - 500 mcg
Other ingredients: citric acid, sorbitol, sodium carbonate, natural colors flavors, sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, polyethylene glycol, magnesium sulfate, sodium benzoate, calcium carbonate, acesulfame potassium, riboflavin-5-phosphate.
The awesome people over at NUUN sent me a new flavor to try, the Tri-Berry. I am a pretty finicky person when it comes to flavors of drinks, especially sport type drinks, so I was pleasantly surprised that I liked both the Strawberry Lemonade AND the Tri-Berry.
The NUUN Active Hydration comes in 12 (yes 12!) flavors. The Active Hydration is only 1 type of NUUN, check out their website for more details on their other products, including their new Energy line.
So - do you want to try NUUN out?
You get 1 entry per item below! Good luck!
1) Like me on FB - facebook.com/abbysgettinfit
2) Like Nuun on FB - facebook.com/nuunhydration
3) Leave a comment here telling me why you want to try Nuun
4) Share my "contest photo" on FB
5) Follow me on Twitter @abbysgettinfit
6) Follow Nuun on Twitter - @nuunhydration
7) Leave me a comment on FB telling me why you want to try Nuun
Contest ends on Friday!
2) Like Nuun on FB - facebook.com/nuunhydration
3) Leave a comment here telling me why you want to try Nuun
4) Share my "contest photo" on FB
5) Follow me on Twitter @abbysgettinfit
6) Follow Nuun on Twitter - @nuunhydration
7) Leave me a comment on FB telling me why you want to try Nuun
Contest ends on Friday!
Monday, August 25, 2014
Week 4 Is No More
I know - the lame titles will end soon, I promise (or do I??)
So I'm officially 4 weeks into my training program and I am feeling pretty good. This week was a little bit of an all over week, no lie, but I got the bulk of things done. This is also the week that I decided to switch a few things up to work better with my needs, so you might see a few changes in the upcoming weeks.
Monday - Stretch and Strength - I didn't do any strength but I spent time stretching. This is one of my changes, my Monday will not be Roll and Rest days, foam rolling and resting. My body will thank me for it.
Tuesday - I skipped my run. That's right, just, skipped it. Why? Cause a friend I hadn't seen in a while could hang out, and I wanted too. And because...life, it happens.
Wednesday - Cross Training Day - Couldn't really decide what I wanted to do, so I broke out the good ol' Hip Hop Abs dvd and did one of the workouts. It wasn't much, but it was something
Thursday - I rested instead of ran, because, life happened again.
Friday - Instead of resting, I ran (see, it evens out!)
Saturday - Cross training day, but that didn't really happen. I could pretend I swam but really, I laid in the pool drinking an Angry Orchard.
Sunday - 5 Mile Run - Did all 5 miles, in the heat and humidity. Wishing this humidity would break!
So overall, it was an "easier" week for me, but that's okay. I'm not upset about it. I am doing what I can, doing what I want, and living life.
And for the first time in a long time, I have the confidence that I will succeed in my half marathon. I'm scared and nervous, but dammit I know I can do it, and that in of itself is pretty amazing.
So I'm officially 4 weeks into my training program and I am feeling pretty good. This week was a little bit of an all over week, no lie, but I got the bulk of things done. This is also the week that I decided to switch a few things up to work better with my needs, so you might see a few changes in the upcoming weeks.
Monday - Stretch and Strength - I didn't do any strength but I spent time stretching. This is one of my changes, my Monday will not be Roll and Rest days, foam rolling and resting. My body will thank me for it.
Tuesday - I skipped my run. That's right, just, skipped it. Why? Cause a friend I hadn't seen in a while could hang out, and I wanted too. And because...life, it happens.
Wednesday - Cross Training Day - Couldn't really decide what I wanted to do, so I broke out the good ol' Hip Hop Abs dvd and did one of the workouts. It wasn't much, but it was something
Thursday - I rested instead of ran, because, life happened again.
Friday - Instead of resting, I ran (see, it evens out!)
Saturday - Cross training day, but that didn't really happen. I could pretend I swam but really, I laid in the pool drinking an Angry Orchard.
Sunday - 5 Mile Run - Did all 5 miles, in the heat and humidity. Wishing this humidity would break!
So overall, it was an "easier" week for me, but that's okay. I'm not upset about it. I am doing what I can, doing what I want, and living life.
And for the first time in a long time, I have the confidence that I will succeed in my half marathon. I'm scared and nervous, but dammit I know I can do it, and that in of itself is pretty amazing.
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Guess Who Is Now A Polar Ambassador??
I'll give you ONE guess!
I am turly humbled that Polar is giving me a chance to be their ambassador. It means a great deal to me!
So here is a little about the company...
From their website "At our heart we’re all about getting people fit and improving their physical performance, but more than that, we’re about pushing boundaries in everything we do. Take a look through the About Polar section and see for yourself. Who we are, what we do, our history and the innovations that make us unique – it’s all here waiting for you to discover." Polar was founded in 1977 in Finland and by 1982 they had their first wireless wearable heart rate monitor. They have a pretty cool timeline on their site of the accomplishments they have had.
My first HRM was by Polar and I purchased it about 2 and a half years ago. I went with the FT4. It came highly recommended by many people on FB and it did what I needed it to do, track my calories while working out.
Once my needs started to change (ie, I started running), I wanted something that would track my distance as well as my calories burned. I asked around and although people suggested a Garmin to me, I went with my gut and got another Polar, the RCX3 GPS and I certainly didn't regret it. The GPS was spot-on, it fit me well, it allowed me to use it for crossing training as well (something some of the Garmins don't really allow for) and I already knew the basics of using it (which BTW, these products are SO easy to use).
Now, I am once again upgrading, I will now be using the RC3 GPS and will be trading in my Fitbit for a Polar Loop. In the coming weeks, I'll give you some reviews on those, since I am just starting to use them.
So what does this mean for my readers? Well, I am going to be doing weekly Polar posts on here, introducing different products, giving you info, etc. You will start to see more of my photos with the hashtag #teampolar, which won't affect you, but, you'll see it. And I have some more things up my sleeve, but you'll have to wait!
So, tell me, does anyone have any Polar products?
I am turly humbled that Polar is giving me a chance to be their ambassador. It means a great deal to me!
So here is a little about the company...
From their website "At our heart we’re all about getting people fit and improving their physical performance, but more than that, we’re about pushing boundaries in everything we do. Take a look through the About Polar section and see for yourself. Who we are, what we do, our history and the innovations that make us unique – it’s all here waiting for you to discover." Polar was founded in 1977 in Finland and by 1982 they had their first wireless wearable heart rate monitor. They have a pretty cool timeline on their site of the accomplishments they have had.
My first HRM was by Polar and I purchased it about 2 and a half years ago. I went with the FT4. It came highly recommended by many people on FB and it did what I needed it to do, track my calories while working out.
Once my needs started to change (ie, I started running), I wanted something that would track my distance as well as my calories burned. I asked around and although people suggested a Garmin to me, I went with my gut and got another Polar, the RCX3 GPS and I certainly didn't regret it. The GPS was spot-on, it fit me well, it allowed me to use it for crossing training as well (something some of the Garmins don't really allow for) and I already knew the basics of using it (which BTW, these products are SO easy to use).
Now, I am once again upgrading, I will now be using the RC3 GPS and will be trading in my Fitbit for a Polar Loop. In the coming weeks, I'll give you some reviews on those, since I am just starting to use them.
So what does this mean for my readers? Well, I am going to be doing weekly Polar posts on here, introducing different products, giving you info, etc. You will start to see more of my photos with the hashtag #teampolar, which won't affect you, but, you'll see it. And I have some more things up my sleeve, but you'll have to wait!
So, tell me, does anyone have any Polar products?
Monday, August 18, 2014
Another Week Bites the Dust
I am officially three weeks down on my 1/2 marathon training schedule! Let's review shall we?
Monday - Stretch and Strength - I took Monday to relax a bit, I did a little stretching but over all, I'd call it a rest day.
Tuesday - 3.5 Mile Run - My legs felt like concrete but I was able to get through all 3.5 miles before it started to down pour!
Wednesday - 2 Mile Run or Cross Train - I was soo tired on Wednesday, achy, sore, exhausted. I planned to rest but the guilt hit me hard (you can read more about it here) and I went for a walk.
Thursday - 3.5 Mile Run - My body couldn't take it anymore, I needed a full on rest day. So I skipped my 3.5 miles, took a 40 minute epsom salt bath and rested instead. I regret nothing!
Friday - Rest Day - Yes, I took two in a row!
Saturday - 40 Minute Cross-Training - Woke up tired but decided to hit the pavement, with my bike! 40 minute cross-training - got in almost 6 miles.
Sunday - 5 mile run - It was slow and humid, but because of my rest, I didn't feel any pain in my knees. Success overall!
This week will be the same, program wise, but I hope to have more energy and less pain so I can complete my days.
PS - I have some super exciting things coming up, so please follow my blog! Think giveaways!
Monday - Stretch and Strength - I took Monday to relax a bit, I did a little stretching but over all, I'd call it a rest day.
Tuesday - 3.5 Mile Run - My legs felt like concrete but I was able to get through all 3.5 miles before it started to down pour!
Wednesday - 2 Mile Run or Cross Train - I was soo tired on Wednesday, achy, sore, exhausted. I planned to rest but the guilt hit me hard (you can read more about it here) and I went for a walk.
Thursday - 3.5 Mile Run - My body couldn't take it anymore, I needed a full on rest day. So I skipped my 3.5 miles, took a 40 minute epsom salt bath and rested instead. I regret nothing!
Friday - Rest Day - Yes, I took two in a row!
Saturday - 40 Minute Cross-Training - Woke up tired but decided to hit the pavement, with my bike! 40 minute cross-training - got in almost 6 miles.
Sunday - 5 mile run - It was slow and humid, but because of my rest, I didn't feel any pain in my knees. Success overall!
This week will be the same, program wise, but I hope to have more energy and less pain so I can complete my days.
PS - I have some super exciting things coming up, so please follow my blog! Think giveaways!
Friday, August 15, 2014
Schedule Slave
Have you ever started a work-out program and found that the schedule was difficult to keep up with (think Beachbody, Jillian Michaels, Marathon/Half Marathon training programs)? We have all been there. Some of us quit, some of us keep up with it, but beat ourselves up over skipping extra days, some of us even may get injured by pushing to hard to fast.
I am here to tell you, you do NOT need to be a slave to your program. In the words of Barbossa, the program should be more like "guidelines than actual rules". It is soo important to remember that you need to listen to your body, if you need extra rest, take it, if you need to switch up days, do it. You don't need to skip a day and than do double the next, you don't need to speak poorly to yourself about skipping a day. Our bodies sometimes just need extra time, extra rest, extra "me time". So take it.
For example - as I've mentioned, I started a half marathon training program two weeks ago. For me, it's rather intense, as it requires 6 days of working out a week, three of them being running. The first two weeks I sailed through, no issues really. But this week, I sort of hit a wall. My knees and back started to ache, and I just became more tired. So Wednesday, I decided I was going to stretch and rest, instead of cross train (walk two miles). But than, as I sat on the couch, the dreaded guilt set in, "why are you sitting doing nothing, get off your ass, stop being lazy" So I headed out for a 2 mile walk.
Enter Thursday - my body was screaming at me. My knees were killing, I was exhausted, my back was having some slight spasms when I'd turn a certain way. This was my bodies' way of saying "ENOUGH! I need a full, real, true rest day!" So I took it, I said "Okay, I hear you." I sat on the couch, than I took a 40 minute epsom salt bath, than I sat again (with Icy Hot on my knees). And it was glorious.
Because here's the thing, my goal right now, is to make it to my half uninjured and ready to run. How will it help if I push myself to far "training" and can't even run the race anyway?
PS - today is my scheduled rest day, and I'm taking that too, with no guilt. #imnotaslaveforyou
I am here to tell you, you do NOT need to be a slave to your program. In the words of Barbossa, the program should be more like "guidelines than actual rules". It is soo important to remember that you need to listen to your body, if you need extra rest, take it, if you need to switch up days, do it. You don't need to skip a day and than do double the next, you don't need to speak poorly to yourself about skipping a day. Our bodies sometimes just need extra time, extra rest, extra "me time". So take it.
For example - as I've mentioned, I started a half marathon training program two weeks ago. For me, it's rather intense, as it requires 6 days of working out a week, three of them being running. The first two weeks I sailed through, no issues really. But this week, I sort of hit a wall. My knees and back started to ache, and I just became more tired. So Wednesday, I decided I was going to stretch and rest, instead of cross train (walk two miles). But than, as I sat on the couch, the dreaded guilt set in, "why are you sitting doing nothing, get off your ass, stop being lazy" So I headed out for a 2 mile walk.
Enter Thursday - my body was screaming at me. My knees were killing, I was exhausted, my back was having some slight spasms when I'd turn a certain way. This was my bodies' way of saying "ENOUGH! I need a full, real, true rest day!" So I took it, I said "Okay, I hear you." I sat on the couch, than I took a 40 minute epsom salt bath, than I sat again (with Icy Hot on my knees). And it was glorious.
Because here's the thing, my goal right now, is to make it to my half uninjured and ready to run. How will it help if I push myself to far "training" and can't even run the race anyway?
PS - today is my scheduled rest day, and I'm taking that too, with no guilt. #imnotaslaveforyou
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| Photo from Google Images but original source - http://barefootcolo.com/ |
Monday, August 11, 2014
Buh-Bye Week 2!
Week two is over....here is how it went...
Monday - Stretch and Strength - Spent 20 minutes doing some stretching. My body was tired, so I allowed it rest. It felt good to get specified time JUST for stretching.
Tuesday - 3 Mile Run - It ended up being a 2.45 mile run, due to weather. Some thunder and lightening started, so I headed back. Overall a good run though, no shin pain and not to much fatigue.
Wednesday - 2 Mile Run or Cross - Cross training again, a 2 mile walk. I have no guilt about choosing walking as my cross training. It's a legitimate way to cross train and I think it's ignored by a lot of people.
Thursday - 3 Mile Run - One of the most comfortable runs I've had in a long while, I even had negative splits! Felt good to run and not feel too fatigued.
Friday - Rest Day - which actually turned into peeling wallpaper day, so I consider it another cross-training day
Saturday - 30 Minute Cross - Used this day as a wallpaper peeling day. With the up and down of getting on a step ladder, and the scrapping with a putty knife, I can feel it pretty good in my triceps. Cross training/home updating success!
Sunday - 4 Mile Run - By far one of the best runs I've had so far this training program. Went smoothly, no pain, times weren't bad and I enjoyed it. Listened to a podcast, which is my new jam. If you've never tried running to a podcast before, I'd suggest it just for a try. I never thought I'd like it but come to find out, it's almost better than music sometimes for me!
So, I'm two weeks down. Somehow, even though I've been busy busy, I'm feeling pretty good. I've been sleeping great, eating when I need too, and making sure I take down time for myself. Looking forward to what this week brings!
Monday - Stretch and Strength - Spent 20 minutes doing some stretching. My body was tired, so I allowed it rest. It felt good to get specified time JUST for stretching.
Tuesday - 3 Mile Run - It ended up being a 2.45 mile run, due to weather. Some thunder and lightening started, so I headed back. Overall a good run though, no shin pain and not to much fatigue.
Wednesday - 2 Mile Run or Cross - Cross training again, a 2 mile walk. I have no guilt about choosing walking as my cross training. It's a legitimate way to cross train and I think it's ignored by a lot of people.
Thursday - 3 Mile Run - One of the most comfortable runs I've had in a long while, I even had negative splits! Felt good to run and not feel too fatigued.
Friday - Rest Day - which actually turned into peeling wallpaper day, so I consider it another cross-training day
Saturday - 30 Minute Cross - Used this day as a wallpaper peeling day. With the up and down of getting on a step ladder, and the scrapping with a putty knife, I can feel it pretty good in my triceps. Cross training/home updating success!
Sunday - 4 Mile Run - By far one of the best runs I've had so far this training program. Went smoothly, no pain, times weren't bad and I enjoyed it. Listened to a podcast, which is my new jam. If you've never tried running to a podcast before, I'd suggest it just for a try. I never thought I'd like it but come to find out, it's almost better than music sometimes for me!
So, I'm two weeks down. Somehow, even though I've been busy busy, I'm feeling pretty good. I've been sleeping great, eating when I need too, and making sure I take down time for myself. Looking forward to what this week brings!
Monday, August 4, 2014
Week One Done
Week 1 of 12 is over. Here is how it went...
Monday - Stretch and Strength - Took it slow, did a short (15 minute) arm workout and some crunches. Nothing to crazy or drastic
Tuesday - 3 Mile Run - Pace was slow, but I got it done. Having not run much in the past few months, I was happy to have no pain and minimal soreness after
Wednesday - 2 Mile Run or Cross - Took a 2 mile walk with my friend as my cross training. Was lovely to have a walking buddy.
Thursday - 3 Mile Run - Pace wasn't much better than Tuesday, but I got it done.
Friday - Rest Day. Oh glorious rest day!
Saturday - 30 Minute Cross-Training - Used my cross training day to my advantage and removed wallpaper from my future kitchen. Lots of squatting, stretching, reaching, and sweating. I'd call it a successful cross day!
Sunday - 4 Mile Run - So tired, hard run. Walked a lot, but didn't quit. 4 miles in just over an hour, which is just a little more than my average pace.
Overall, success. Now, onto week 2!
Monday - Stretch and Strength - Took it slow, did a short (15 minute) arm workout and some crunches. Nothing to crazy or drastic
Tuesday - 3 Mile Run - Pace was slow, but I got it done. Having not run much in the past few months, I was happy to have no pain and minimal soreness after
Wednesday - 2 Mile Run or Cross - Took a 2 mile walk with my friend as my cross training. Was lovely to have a walking buddy.
Thursday - 3 Mile Run - Pace wasn't much better than Tuesday, but I got it done.
Friday - Rest Day. Oh glorious rest day!
Saturday - 30 Minute Cross-Training - Used my cross training day to my advantage and removed wallpaper from my future kitchen. Lots of squatting, stretching, reaching, and sweating. I'd call it a successful cross day!
Sunday - 4 Mile Run - So tired, hard run. Walked a lot, but didn't quit. 4 miles in just over an hour, which is just a little more than my average pace.
Overall, success. Now, onto week 2!
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
My Journey to a Half
A half marathon, 13.1 miles, 69217.5 feet.
My journey started nearly a year ago when I decided I was going to do a triathlon. The thought popped into my head one day and BOOM, I was going to do it. I started running, biking and swimming. I started working on transitions between biking and running, and started to plan out where I could practice open swims.
and than, something happened. I fell in <3 with running. Forget the damn biking and swimming, I wanted to RUN! And just like that, the dream of a triathlon went by the wayside, and a new dream emerged, one that, even to me, was insane. I wanted to run a half marathon. Up until that point (around August/September 2013) my furthest distance was a 5k. But, screw it, I was going to do it!
I signed up for my very first 10k, which took place in November 2013. I decided when that was over, my half training would begin. I knew what half I wanted to do, and I was ready.
My 10k went as good as could be expected and now I was ready to train. I picked a Jeff Galloway training program and got to work. My goal was to complete the plan twice, as my half wasn't until October of 2014. And off I went, 3 miles, than 4 miles, than 5 miles, 6,7,8 miles. I was on a role, I ran outdoors in the cold and snow and when it got too icy, I headed indoors to the gym. Than the day came, March 8th to be exact, I ran 10 miles. 10 whole freaking miles. I was a champ! If I could do this, I could do anything.
And than.......I hit a wall. After my 10 mile run, my knee started acting up, so I started to slow it down. Than, before I knew it, I fell off my plan completely. I was still running but by no means keeping up with my program.
Which brings me to now...since March I have done the Fight for Air Climb, a 10k in May, a 10k in June, and a 5k in July. But, I have been sticking to no sort of plan. I got lazy. Really lazy. But, I haven't given up.
This previous Sunday marked 12 weeks until my half. Only 12 weeks before I cross that finish line and become a half marathoner. *Cue slight freak out*
But not to worry, I have a new training program and LOTS of support from friends and family. This half marathon will be my bitch! I'm two days down and ready to prove that I can do this, if for no one else, myself. I have it in me, I know I do.
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Race Recap: Escape to Belle Isle 5k
Race: Escape to Belle Isle
Size: Around 350
Race Distance:10k 5k
Time: 45:07
Another race on Belle Isle, it's a perfect place to run. The scenery is great and the course is nice and flat.
This was my first time doing this race but it's in it's 6th year. When I registered, I registered for the 10k. I hadn't run a 5k since last September (I've been trying to keep my distances up), but earlier in the week I came down with some stomach issues, and instead of cancelling all together, I figured I'd just do the shorter distance. I emailed the race coordinator and they switched it over for me with no problem.
On-site packet pick up was fine for me personally, as I don't mind a line, especially one that moves quickly, however, there was in fact a line, 1 for the 5kers and 1 for the 10kers. But I got through the line in about 5 minutes, so I didn't consider it an issue. The race started about 5 minutes late, but again, not an issue for me personally. All racers started at the same time and there was an hour and a half limit for both the 5 and 10kers. In a lot of ways, I am happy I changed to the 5k, because my 10k is JUST at the limit and I'd hate to be late.
On the 5k route there were two water stations, but I brought my hydration belt so I didn't partake. The course was clearly marked and had pace cars going around so everyone knew where to go. The on-site volunteers were supportive and positive, with one even dancing for us. As you crossed the finish line, they were calling out your bib numbers, which was different; whenever I've been at a race where they called out, it's always been my name.
Post-race food was the usual, bananas, bagels, oranges, water. They also had some apple and orange juice and I THINK I saw some McDonalds sandwiches (the race benefited the Ronald McDonald house).
All racers received a finisher's medal and they were of really nice quality plus everyone received a Tech T, and although the color was a little bright for me, the quality of the shirt was nice.
For more information on the race - you can visit their website at - http://www.escapetobelleisle.com/
Size: Around 350
Race Distance:
Time: 45:07
Another race on Belle Isle, it's a perfect place to run. The scenery is great and the course is nice and flat.
This was my first time doing this race but it's in it's 6th year. When I registered, I registered for the 10k. I hadn't run a 5k since last September (I've been trying to keep my distances up), but earlier in the week I came down with some stomach issues, and instead of cancelling all together, I figured I'd just do the shorter distance. I emailed the race coordinator and they switched it over for me with no problem.
On-site packet pick up was fine for me personally, as I don't mind a line, especially one that moves quickly, however, there was in fact a line, 1 for the 5kers and 1 for the 10kers. But I got through the line in about 5 minutes, so I didn't consider it an issue. The race started about 5 minutes late, but again, not an issue for me personally. All racers started at the same time and there was an hour and a half limit for both the 5 and 10kers. In a lot of ways, I am happy I changed to the 5k, because my 10k is JUST at the limit and I'd hate to be late.
On the 5k route there were two water stations, but I brought my hydration belt so I didn't partake. The course was clearly marked and had pace cars going around so everyone knew where to go. The on-site volunteers were supportive and positive, with one even dancing for us. As you crossed the finish line, they were calling out your bib numbers, which was different; whenever I've been at a race where they called out, it's always been my name.
Post-race food was the usual, bananas, bagels, oranges, water. They also had some apple and orange juice and I THINK I saw some McDonalds sandwiches (the race benefited the Ronald McDonald house).
All racers received a finisher's medal and they were of really nice quality plus everyone received a Tech T, and although the color was a little bright for me, the quality of the shirt was nice.
For more information on the race - you can visit their website at - http://www.escapetobelleisle.com/
Monday, July 14, 2014
What I Thought About Crossfit
It's easy to find out what society thinks about crossfit - just look at the memes...
Alright, back to the session. For the first 30 or so minutes, we did a warm up that consisted of squats, kettle swings, deadlifts, and some walking with bands around our knees (no idea what that was called). We spent a lot of time on kettle swings because our other friend and I could NOT get the form right, and he was not moving on until we knew what we were doing wrong. He even recorded us on his phone to show us what part of the form we were missing. So once we went through that, we moved on to the circuit portion of the session. Our circuit consisted of 8 wall ball throws, 4 ring rows, and 2 burpees. We had to do as many times as we could in 10 minutes. He was very patient, showed us some easier ways to do burpees if we struggled with them, and was motivating yet not pushy. I was on my ring rows of my 7th set and had about a minute and a half left, he came in front of me and said "You have a choice now, you can finish this set, or you can finish this set and get one more set in". That little bit of perspective allowed me to get one more set in, for a total of 8 in 10 minutes.
It was a good workout, and here I am, three days later, still feeling sore. I burned a lot of calories and felt pretty strong. But, I don't think it's for me. However, I do have a new respect for it, as long as it is taught properly by coaches who care about your well-being.
What has been your experience with Crossfit?
For some, Crossfit is a way of life, something that motivates them, pushes them, and makes them feel invincible. To some, it's a under-taught, aggressive form of working out that can lead to serious injury.
My best friend recently discovered it, and I've never seen her so invested in something. So when she asked me and our other friend to join her at one of her personal training sessions, I decided to give it a go (and our other friend did too).
Background - The CF we went too is owned by a friend of ours we have known for years. He has always been an athlete and I'd trust him 2000% to show proper form and scale things so I could do them without injury.
Alright, back to the session. For the first 30 or so minutes, we did a warm up that consisted of squats, kettle swings, deadlifts, and some walking with bands around our knees (no idea what that was called). We spent a lot of time on kettle swings because our other friend and I could NOT get the form right, and he was not moving on until we knew what we were doing wrong. He even recorded us on his phone to show us what part of the form we were missing. So once we went through that, we moved on to the circuit portion of the session. Our circuit consisted of 8 wall ball throws, 4 ring rows, and 2 burpees. We had to do as many times as we could in 10 minutes. He was very patient, showed us some easier ways to do burpees if we struggled with them, and was motivating yet not pushy. I was on my ring rows of my 7th set and had about a minute and a half left, he came in front of me and said "You have a choice now, you can finish this set, or you can finish this set and get one more set in". That little bit of perspective allowed me to get one more set in, for a total of 8 in 10 minutes.
It was a good workout, and here I am, three days later, still feeling sore. I burned a lot of calories and felt pretty strong. But, I don't think it's for me. However, I do have a new respect for it, as long as it is taught properly by coaches who care about your well-being.
What has been your experience with Crossfit?
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Don't Wake Me Up Before You Go Go
Raise your hand if you honestly think you get enough sleep? I hear crickets chirping and needles dropping.
I for one need a lot of sleep, ask my boyfriend or any of my close friends. A 5-6 hour night of sleep does NOT make me a happy camper. I personally get an average of 7-8 hours of sleep. But I am a tosser and a turner (tossin and turnin all night). Some nights I sleep pretty well and can live my life normally. But on days I don't get enough sleep...the following things begin to happen...
1) I am HUNGRY, ALLLLLLLLL DAY. Like ravenous. Like put anything in front of me and I will eat it.
2) Stress levels rise, I start to think about all those things that COULD happen, that NEED to happen, that I WANT to happen and my anxiety goes through the roof.
And guess what? This isn't just me. Study after study prove that sleep is imperative to living a healthy life.
So how do we solve this issue?
You can Google all day long about how to get better sleep, from lavender pillow spray to prescription sleep meds. If you are at the end of your rope and just need more sleep but nothing is working, I strongly suggest seeing a doctor. Sleeping is so detrimental to our health, so why play around with it?
So how do I get my sleep? First off, I get into bed at 9ish pm every night. Yes, 9. Granted I do not have children, so my evenings are not as filled as others, but I am in my bed by 9 or 9:30 each night. I turn off the lights, turn on my fan, and read on my Kindle. Typically I will fall asleep with my Kindle in my hand. Some nights I have to physically put it down and make myself go to sleep. It doesn't take me much to fall asleep, but staying asleep is my enemy. I wake up a lot, so when I wake up, I do not look at my phone, or my Kindle, or anything. I roll over, take some deep breaths, and lul myself back to sleep.
What's your trick to sleep?
I for one need a lot of sleep, ask my boyfriend or any of my close friends. A 5-6 hour night of sleep does NOT make me a happy camper. I personally get an average of 7-8 hours of sleep. But I am a tosser and a turner (tossin and turnin all night). Some nights I sleep pretty well and can live my life normally. But on days I don't get enough sleep...the following things begin to happen...
1) I am HUNGRY, ALLLLLLLLL DAY. Like ravenous. Like put anything in front of me and I will eat it.
2) Stress levels rise, I start to think about all those things that COULD happen, that NEED to happen, that I WANT to happen and my anxiety goes through the roof.
And guess what? This isn't just me. Study after study prove that sleep is imperative to living a healthy life.
So how do we solve this issue?
You can Google all day long about how to get better sleep, from lavender pillow spray to prescription sleep meds. If you are at the end of your rope and just need more sleep but nothing is working, I strongly suggest seeing a doctor. Sleeping is so detrimental to our health, so why play around with it?
So how do I get my sleep? First off, I get into bed at 9ish pm every night. Yes, 9. Granted I do not have children, so my evenings are not as filled as others, but I am in my bed by 9 or 9:30 each night. I turn off the lights, turn on my fan, and read on my Kindle. Typically I will fall asleep with my Kindle in my hand. Some nights I have to physically put it down and make myself go to sleep. It doesn't take me much to fall asleep, but staying asleep is my enemy. I wake up a lot, so when I wake up, I do not look at my phone, or my Kindle, or anything. I roll over, take some deep breaths, and lul myself back to sleep.
What's your trick to sleep?
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