Day 61 - Whaaaaaaaaaat!?!? 5 Miles?

Day 61 - Running

Weather: Sunny, 70 degrees and strong winds (15-20mph)

Duration: 52:24 (Seriously? Yes. I am serious)
Distance: 5.01 Miles........yes. Miles. I must have gone insane.
Pace: 10:28 min/mile..........and I am still alive to talk about it.

Yes, you are reading that correctly!?! No, I do not know what has gotten into me. I am thinking I must have gone crazy! Today was finally a beautiful day. Me, Lilah & Clara walked to pick Mairead up at preschool today. It's just about a .5 mile away, so the perfect distance for a little walk. I had intended to run later on. Once Mairead & Clara got up, I prepared to run. Mairead asked if she could go with me. I figured, why not? I put Clara & Mairead into the stroller and set off knowing I probably wouldn't be able to run the entire time with the jogger, especially with the strong winds present. As we approached the end of the driveway, our neighbor asked if I was going for a run (she's an avid runner), and I said yes, and asked if she wanted to come. I met her at her house, when she decided she was going to run down to the beach - 5 miles. No way can I do that with the jogger, no way can I do that without the jogger. As I turned around to leave, she told me to wait. She asked if her daughter could watch the girls and we ran together. I thought about it for a second, and said "Sure" - not sure what I was thinking, but I agreed. She told me to set the pace and just go with the flow. So I did.

Mind you, this is the lady whom I walked with last fall/winter after I had Clara. We would walk at a brisk pace for about 3-4 miles. I could barely keep up with her, and could barely keep a conversation flowing. Today, I ran the ENTIRE 5 miles down to the beach and was able to maintain a FULL conversation with her without feeling as if I was going to die! I can't even begin to tell you how easy it felt. I am not sure if it is because I was with someone who was a runner and she gave me great encouragement, or what - but I felt amazingly good during AND after the run. What has gotten into me? Seriously?! 5 miles?????? This is just insane. My groin and feet were bothering me around mile 3-4, but I really think it is time for new (real) running shoes.

I am just really in shock that I was able to do this - and it wasn't even bad! I am hoping I will be able to run with my neighbor on frequent basis now that I know I am able to run the distance she runs! Whoa. I can honestly say that I am READY for my 5K! I am ready. I never thought I would ever be able to say such a thing!

Day 60: Yep. I'm a slacker!

Day 60: Slacking

It's been 60 days since I decided to take the plunge into a healthier lifestyle. It's been 60 days since I started this 90 day challenge. I am two-thirds of the way through this challenge. It's amazing what 60 days can do to a person. The last few weeks, I have really started to see a change in my body. My pants are fitting so much better, more comfortably. I am not quite as self conscious in clothes as I was before I started this. I am actually starting to see some definition in my arms and legs. I love it, I am starting to feel like I have my body back....a tiny piece of my body back. I'll take tiny. 

This past week has been tough. The weather has not cooperated for running - Yes, I suppose I could run in the rain, but I'm not that dedicated yet. We are also in the midst of renovating our bathroom. On Tuesday, I was on the floor for about 3-4 hours tiling, and today, my lower back is killing me. Yesterday, I painted the bathroom. Today...well, I felt as though I needed a mental health day. I had every intention of running, but there was what seemed to be hurricane force winds outside....okay, maybe not that bad, but really bad winds, stronger than I ever want to run in. So, I just relaxed......and ate a half pan of rice krispies treats. Oh boy did they taste good!

I am looking forward to what the next 30 days has in store for me. I am really ready to step it up a notch in my work outs.

 

Day 59 - Did you remember?

Because I forgot! Today should have been Whatcha doin' Wednesday! Oops...oh well :) 

We're still busy renovating our downstairs bathroom, so all of my "spare" time has been put towards getting the bathroom finished so I can start doing laundry again and the girls can start going potty down here!

Anyways........where was I? Oh yeah. Day 59: Last Chance Workout

Today was pretty much a half ass workout - I had to do it. I originally had Yoga Meltdown on, but then I remember she has you in plank a lot, and my wrists can't handle that right now. I shut it off, and put on Last Chance Workout. I did a lot of the cardio portions with weights just to burn the extra calories. I was hoping to run today, but time and weather limited me. Oh welll.... :) At least I did something. 

How was your week? 

Day 57 & 58 - I'm getting lazy...

putting two days in one post :)

Day 57 (Monday): Painting, painting and more painting!
Day 58: Level 2 Shred

We are currently in the midst of renovating our downstairs bathroom. It's hell...well, not really, but to be frank, I'm tired of renovating. We moved into this house almost 2 years ago, and we are still working on it. It's tough, and I'd rather be spending time doing fun things with the girls rather than working on the house and ignoring the kiddos. The house is beautiful now...and I am proud to say we have done it all ourselves, but on the downturn, it's been tough.

This morning, Kevin and I had big plans to tile the bathroom. I told Kevin I didn't want to go two days without exercising, so we didn't waste time and did the Shred first thing this morning. I definitely wasn't "feeling it" this morning, but I stuck through it and finished. I also was on my knees (up and down) tiling and grouting the floor, that has to count for something, right???

Day 56 - Two weeks from today.....

Day 56 - Running

Weather: Sunny 56 and light winds - absolutely perfect!

Duration: 37:58
Distance: 3.78 miles (personal best)
Pace: 10:01 mins/mile

Two weeks from today I will be running in my very first offical 5K race. It's hard to believe the time has come to actually run! I never thought I would actually feel ready, but I do! I feel I am fairly well prepared for running 3.1 miles afterall, I am now feeling good about running more than 3 miles, too! Honestly, I never thought I would actually be able to run 3 miles let alone almost 4 miles (and still feel like I could run further!). Absolutely amazing.

Today was probably one of my top days running ever. It was absolutely beautiful. The first 12 minutes sucked as they always do, and then around minute 20, I get a burst of energy. I wanted to do at least 3.4 miles today, but as I was on the final stretch home, I decided to keep going. I felt good, why go home? I was in amazement at how good I actually felt - lots of energy, my legs weren't killing me and I didn't feel as though I was going to die. Wow. I love days like this

Day 55: 3-2 = 1

Day 55: No More Trouble Zones (full DVD version)

If you're wondering what the 3-2=1 means.....it means that we have three, but two of the girls are with my parents for the night, which leave us with only ONE child! Wow. You forget how easy (and quiet) life was with just one child. Dont' get me wrong though...I am in now way shape or form undermining those who only have one child because kids are BUSY, no matter how many you got :)

Anyways, once Clara went down for a nap, I did a work out. It was uneventful today. I used 3lbs weights, and it went well. My wrists are really bad, so doing push-ups and plank work really bite....hopefully with some aleve, they'll get better soon.

Day 54: Running with a friend

Day 54: Running

Weather: Cloudy, 51 with mild-moderate winds

Duration: 35:33
Distance: 3.14 miles
Pace: 11:18 mins/mile

Fridays are the days I get a break. I usually have a sitter here in the morning for a few hours, or she comes in the evening so Kevin and I can have a break together! This morning, my girlfriend, Kim, was off from work, so she asked if I wanted to run. Even though I had run yesterday, I wanted to run again. Like I have mentioned before, I am not doing this just to get in shape, I am doing this for myself. So, I figured, even if I didn't do well, or run a good distance, it was still time for myself, with an added bonus of exercising with a friend!

Kim & I set off on our run. The first 10 minutes hurt as they always do with me, but then I got into more of a groove, plus, having a friend always helps pass the time. Kim's calf was bothering her pretty badly, so we had to stop and walk a few times. She kept telling me to go ahead, but I wouldn't do that. I was just happy to be getting some girlfriend time in with an added bonus of burning a few calories! Our time/distance wasn't that bad! I always compare my pace to what it was when I first started off, and an 11 minute mile isn't that bad, not to mention we walked a fair amount.

Day 53: Can I have a redo???

Day 53: Running

Duration: 26:02 min
Distance: 2.53 miles
Pace: 10:52 mins/mile

After feeling so great on Tuesday, I was actually excited to run today. I looked forward to running. ME. The anti-runner. We were dog sitting Kevin's co-workers dog, and well, I'll just say I will never have three dogs. It's a lot. Anyways, the dog kept running off, and I couldn't understand why. Then, I realized the electronic collar fell off. Did I mention we live around acres and acres and acres of WOODS? Kevin and I spent hours in the woods searching for this collar...oh, and it's black. Not easy to find.

When I got around to running, I was tired. Mentally tired. I started running and I hurt. My quads were tired from yesterdays Trouble Zones, then I got side stitches. It was all over. I shouldn't have run so close to eating, but I did, and I paid for it. I think the only good I got out of my run is that I actually got my heart rate up, but the entire thing sucked. My distance sucked. My pace sucked. My time sucked. Oh well, it can't always be perfect, right?

Tomorrow is another day.

Day 52: Not quite motivated today!

Day 52: No More Trouble Zones - full version

Ooooh! That work out is tough! It definitely leaves me sweating pretty good afterwards. It was so hard to get motivated today. After I put the girls down (who have all been napping SO well - except Mairead), I came downstairs and had a snack. I sat down outside in the sun for a little break, and ooooh it felt oh soo good! I didn't want to get up. I kept putting exercising off, the sun felt so goood. Then, I looked at the clock....if I wanted to do Trouble Zones, I had to start now since the girls would start to be getting up. So, I motivated and got moving.

I did the work out with 3lb weights today - the plank work on that video are killers...seriously. The ab work outs make me want to cry at the end, but they feel so good! Since I had kids, I've had issues with my wrists, particularly my right wrist. Doing plankwork, especially push ups are sometimes impossible. Lately, I have not been able to do pushups because of my wrist pain. Hopefully it goes away :(

Whatcha' Doin' Wednesday

It's Wednesday again! If you are new to Whatcha Doin' Wednesdays, click HERE  to read about it!

If you visit, please join in or at least leave a comment (below)! :)

1. What was your goal for the past week? Did you meet the goal?

2. What was your biggest accomplishment for the week?

3. Did you try anything new? If so, did you like it?

4. Are you just exercising or doing something new with your diet/nutrition?

5. Do you have kids? If so, how do you schedule in work outs? What works for you? What doesn't?


Here are my answers:

1. My goal for the past week was to start increasing my distances in my runs. I had been able to run 3.1 miles twice. Unfortunately, the weather didn't quite cooperate with me to reach that goal, but I did run 3.4 miles yesterday, so I guess I did reach my goal of increasing distance.

2. Hmmm...I don't know! I would have to say continuing to run. I have been running faster times, and was able to complete a 5K in just over 30 minutes.

3. Yes. I tried Level 3 of the Shred, and I have to say it is very challenging! It is much different than the first two levels. She has you doing a lot of plank work, and using weights during the cardio circuit. Definitely a challenge, but it felt great when I finished. Oh, and I also tried doing level 1 AND 2 together. I couldn't run because of weather (we don't have a treadmill) and I wanted a GOOD cardio workout along with strength training. It was an AWESOME work out and I highly recommend it!!!

4. I am trying to eat healthier with not as much snacking. Since I am still exclusively breastfeeding (with the exception of one small meal for Clara), I have to be very careful. I found myself last week probably not meeting my caloric needs and I am pretty sure my milk supply was starting to drop a wee bit, so I have backed off. I am eating what I want, just trying to make healthier decisions.

5. Yes. I have 3 kids almost 4 and under...so I am ALL about time restricted exercise.......or interrupted exercises! It's not uncommon for me to have to stop in between exercises to wipe a butt or referree an argument! :)

If I am not running, I work out during their nap time in the afternoons. This usually works out well. The days I am running, I wait until Kevin gets home, and then we take turns running. If the kids are awake, I may do a quick Shred, and they will join in with me. They'll get a mat, and do the exercises. It works out really well. By the time they are bored, the workout is generally just about over! 20 minutes is very, very doable for me.

Day 51 - The next step

Day 51 - Running

Weather: Sunny & 62 degrees with a fairly hefty wind

Duration: 35:55
Distance: 3.41 miles (longest I've ever run!)
Pace: 10:32 (not the greatest, but it was hilly & windy)

The beach is approximately 2.5 miles away from our house. My new goal is to be able to run to the beach. The problem? I have to run back! That means, I will have to be able to run/walk at least 5 miles.....tough. Today, was the first step.

I've been doing the 5 minute warm up of No Trouble Zones before my run, and I have to say, it has really, really helped get through those first 10 minutes. I feel so much better, and more energized. It doesn't hurt so much. Today, the first mile, I ran in 9 minutes, and it felt really, really good. dare I say it.....easy??? 

Today I ran 1.5 miles down towards the beach. I crossed a marsh and ran up a big ass hill - NOT FUN. Hills really take a lot out of you, but it was great training. On the way home, it was so windy, and up hill, so my pace really slowed down to 10-11 minute miles. Overall, it felt good. I've officially passed the 3.1 mile mark, and I cannot be happier.

Day 50 - Reflections...

Day 50 - Level 1 & 2 of Shred!

I so needed to run today, but we had plans to bring the girls to the Portland Sea Dogs baseball game this afternoon, so we were a bit pressed for time.....okay, okay....I'll admit, it was windy as hell outside, and I just couldn't do it today. Tomorrow, I will run. I promise :)

After eating like crazy all weekend, and then like crap today (baseball game food - steak & cheese, fried dough, etc etc), I had to make sure I had a GOOD, quality work out today! I thought about doing No More Trouble Zones - nah.........I had an even better idea! Let's do Level 1 AND 2 of the Shred - I wanted to get some decent cardio in, and this was the way. I have to admit, it was a KICK ASS workout! Seriously! It felt great, and it was challenging, but not too bad. It is amazing how I can complete level 2 now without much of a hitch - when I started, I couldn't finish some of the strength circuits! My right wrist is killing me - I've had issues with it since after Mairead was born, so today, push-ups were virtually impossible.

So, today is day 50 of my 90 day challenge. I am more than halfway into my challenge, and I can't say anything negative about my experiences thus far. I have noticed such a change in my overall composition, mood and just self worth. Not only was this challenge an excuse to get fit, but it was an excuse to take time out for myself...something I hadn't done in a very, very long time. I am starting to fit into clothes I hadn't worn since before I had Lilah, and not feel nasty in others. I bought a size 2 dress at Ann Taylor Loft over the weekend, and it fit. Amazing. I've run a 5K in 30 minutes. It's just great, and I really hope this new "lifestyle" will continue far after I am done with the 90 days.

Just a few weeks until my first 5K race, and I am actually looking forward to it! I KNOW I will be able to FINISH it! How great is that?

Day 49 - Clara's baptism

Today, we baptised our youngest, Clara, who is just about 7 months old. When everyone left, I had every intention of running, but I just didn't have the energy. I guess I deserve a day off, right? :)

Day 48: That hurt.

Day 48: 30 Day Shred - Level 3

Ohhhhhhhhhh My ......that was tough. I really felt like running today. Got out of bed, threw on some clothes, warmed up and just as I went to leave, it was raining. Again. Ugh. The radar said it was  finished raining for a bit, but it lied. I was all dressed up with no where to go. I was so mad!

Clara's baptism is tomorrow so we had a lot to do to prepare, so I was limited on time. I had this grandiose idea to try Level 3 of the Shred. We had done level 2 enough, so we thought we'd give us a challenge....and a challenge it was! Holy smokes! It was TOUGH.

If you are tired of jumping jacks......well, level 3 is jumping jacks on steriods! You do jumping jacks....punching jabs, running in place............all with WEIGHTS. You love plank work? Good, because a GREAT deal of the workout is on planks! Good gracious! You like to jump? You like squats? Good! Because you do jumping squats! Ohhhhhhhh MY QUADS.

Definitely a tough work out!!! She definitely didn't disappoint yet again. Wow.

Day 47 - Mixin' it up a bit.....

Day 47: Last Chance Workout

I've heard so many times that it is easy to get into a "workout rut" and it's better for your body to mix up your work outs. So, today.....I did something I hadn't done in a while. I tried Last Chance Work out (which is on OnDemand). It's a 25 minute workout that includes strength training and various cardio - it's pretty good. I wouldn't call it challenging, but it's definitely a good workout.

I used 5lb weights throughout the entire workout.

Day 46 - It wasn't a fluke!

Day 46: Running & Level 1 Shred

Weather: Sunny, 50 degrees with moderate wind

Duration: 30:39
Distance: 3.11 miles
Pace: 9:50 mins/mile

It wasn't a fluke! I did my 2nd 5K ever and this time, I did not walk one single stride. I ran the ENTIRE thing! I can't believe it. I did a different course today just to mix it up a bit - it was fun! I listened to one of my dads mixes, and it actually helped a lot. I definitely struggle from like minute 6-15 and then by minute 20, I am feeling amazingly good! I felt 46 days ago like my 30 minute goal of running a 5K was SO over the top, and thought there was no way I would be able to run 3+ miles in 30 minutes! Now, I am thinking I may be able to do it in under 30 minutes.

When I got home, I felt great as I usually do after working out. I went on a quick walk with the girls, and came home. I put on level 1 of the shred and went to town! Wow. It felt really, really, really good. I am trying to fit in 45-60 minutes of exercise a few days a week.

It's going to rain here for the next few days. I am praying I'll be able to get in a day of running either tomorrow or Saturday; it's not looking promising though.

Day 45 - Time

Day 45: Full version - No More Trouble Zones & Quick, Boost: Metabolism

It isn't every day where I have time to do the full No More Trouble Zones (40 min in length), so when I do, I jump on it. Let's be real...40 minutes is a LONG workout when you are juggling a household and three small babes under 4. Most days, my girls will nap/rest about 2 hours. If I am not running, this is my time to exercise. Some days, I will forego doing laundry, or cleaning up after lunch to exercise. Some days, nap times are spent fighting with one of the girls to actually take a nap, and by the time I am successful, it is too late to exercise because one of the other girls is up from rest/nap. Days like today are what I call "picture perfect" days. All three girls went down easily and quickly. I came downstairs to silence. I had a snack outside in the sun while reading Oprah. Yeah. there was laundry that needed folding, but I needed some time, too. Today, I come before laundry. After spending 20 minutes in silence listening to the sea gulls, I got down to business.

No More Trouble Zones isn't a joke. It is a really great, challenging work out...and Katie! Stop beating yourself up - you are more than able to do this workout! It isn't that hard! It's an awesome challenge that feels like a great accomplishment in the end.

The "I Surrenders" really get me. Holding 3 or 5lb weights above my head while getting onto my knees and getting back up again without letting those weights down. It's definitely a challenge, but honestly, I feel strong after I do them. The ab workout is just amazing. If these don't rid me of my muffin top, I don't know what will. Two circuits of crazy ab work that leaves your abs "screaming" as Jillian describes.

Once I finished that DVD. All was still quiet in my house. I feel so good after I work out....so, I put on the quick version of Boost: Metabolism and got a little bit of cardio in. I think I am going to buy this. I like it - it's different, and certainly a challenge!

I feel like I accomplished a lot today....personally. Not around the house, but that's okay. I took the time yesterday to clean the downstairs. I matter, too....and if laundry has to wait, then so be it....we will all survive.

You say "I don't have time.........." - just remember - you always have time for yourself...

Whatcha Doin' Wednesday

We started Whatcha doin' Wednesdays last week:

Hope everyone had a successful week meeting their goals

1. What was your biggest accomplishment last week?

2. What do you think your BIGGEST hurdle is right now?

3. What is your favorite work out/exercise/activity?

4. What do you hope to achieve from exercising?

Anything else????

Here are my answers:

1. My biggest accomplishment was running my very first 5K! Even in the best shape of my life in college, I never ran. So, this was huge for me! I still don't care for running :)

2. Time - with three kids almost 4 and under, it's tough, but I make sure I make time. If I have very little time, I will do the shred, which is only 20 minutes. Everyone has 20 minutes - at least that is what I keep telling myself. The other hurdle is eating - I am trying to eat a lot healthier, with a lot less snacks. Since I am still nursing exclusively (with one solid meal per day for Clara), I have to be very careful in eating, exercising and hydration. 

3.  My favorite work out right now is No More Trouble Zones....it really is challenging, and I love a good challenge. I love anything Abs - need to tame this muffin top!

4.  I hope to learn to incorporate a healthy lifestyle into our household. I want exercise and healthy living to be the "norm" in our house. I never want my girls to think exercise is a CHORE. I want it to be enjoyable for everyone....and exercise doesn't have to be "working out" - it can be a family walk or a hike like Jen does. There is so much to do. I also want to feel better about myself in all sorts of ways, and I have really started to feel better about things lately.

Day 44: Family time!

Day 44: Brisk Walk & Level 2 Shred

Duration: 37:14
Distance: 2.77 miles
Pace: 15:35

Today was such a beautiful day. Kevin came home this afternoon, and I figured we'd shred together or do something. I came up with the idea that we could all take a nice, brisk walk together. We loaded up Mairead & Lilah into the jogger and I strapped Clara (about 15lbs) to my back in the Ergo carrier and off we went. We did our usual course, but walked at a brisk pace instead of running. Clara passed out fairly early into the walk, I think it was when I was "jogging" - she must have loved the bouncing! haha.....Every now and then, I'd kick into a light jog! Clara didn't even awake.

When we came home, I turned on Jillian Michaels for a little more ass whoopin' and went to town! I did level 2. Today was tough. I used 5lbs for the first part of it, but had to switch over to 3lbs. All her plank work just kills me!

I'd say a 2.75 mile walk with an infant strapped to my back followed by a shred was a pretty good calorie burn!

Day 43: Double strollers, Wind & Beer.........

Have one thing in common - They can definitely make things harder! A lot HARDER!

Day 43: Running & OnDemand short version of "No More Trouble Zones"

Weather: Sunny 54 and WINDY.......head winds are NOT fun, especially while pushing a double jogger.

Duration: 33:09
Distance: 2.77 miles
Pace: 11:59 (mind you, I ended up stopping and chatting with a neighbor for a few minutes and forgot to press pause - the pace still would have sucked though)

Today was my running day. Just before I left Mairead & Lilah said they wanted to come. Hmmmmm. I thought. Well, I have a jogging stroller, and I bought it for this purpose, so I guess I should say "yes", right? Well, I did. I never imagined running behind a stroller would be so DIFFICULT! It was so tough, I was dying. My quads were burning so bad. Then, there was a HEAD WIND! Talk about tough. I seriously was huffing and puffing - how do people do this and run effectively??? The only thing I kept telling myself was "it's okay to walk" you're still getting exercise! I ran a lot, but slow....slow...slow....Then, I ran into a neighbor. Of course, I used that as an excuse to stop and catch my breath. I forgot to press pause on my mapmyrun application. Oh well, my run was down the drain by that point anyways.

Once we got home, the girls ran across the street to play with the kids. Our friends offered me a beer and I happily accepted. Wow. That tasted SO good!!!! I had every intention of continuing my work out at home...and I did! When we got back inside, I did the shortened verson on OnDemand of No More Trouble Zones. That is one tough work out! It felt good though. One thing I noticed that with the DVD, Jillian does TWO sets in each circuit, where on OnDemand, she only does ONE set.....there is a HUGE difference!!!!

I am pretty sure having that beer definitely cut down my productivity, but I still did it, right???? So, it still counts...... :)

Day 42 - Gimme a break...

Day 42 - A day off..

Today, I decided to give my body a break and not exercise....well, I went for a walk and played with the girls, but no running......no shred......no yoga.......nada. I was a lazy lazy lady....and it felt kind of good!

Day 41: Fast & Furious

Day 41: Running & Level 2 Shred

Weather: Sunny, 56 and very windy....

Okay......well maybe not "fast and furious" but comparison to what I did on Day 5, I was fast & furious today!

Today (day 41):
Duration: 17:12
Distance: 1.77 miles
Pace: 9:42 mins/mile

Day 5:
Duration: 24:08
Distance: 1.74 miles
Pace: 13:47 mins/mile

Not too bad. I shaved 7 minutes off of my time and improved my pace FOUR minutes from the first week of my couch to 5K.......Seriously? I am pretty satisfied with my improvement less than halfway through my 90 day challenge.

Today was windy. I think there is nothing worse than running straight into a stiff wind. It hurts. Bad. I thought it might be fun to go back to my first course and see how much I have improved since then. So, that's what I did. I never in my right mind would I have thought I'd be able to run under 10 minute miles and go for more than a few minutes straight. I won't tell you it felt great though. I just can't seem to find the "enjoyment" in running like some people do. How do you get there? I really want to...seriously, I do...but it's just tough. I will have to admit I was pretty psyched to see how much I have improved!

Since I ran less than 20 minutes, I came home and did level 2 of the Shred with Kevin. Wow. That definitely kicked my butt, especially after having a hefty workout yesterday with No More Trouble Zones. I am definitely seeing improvements with level 2 now. I can use 5lbs for almost the majority of the workout, but I find myself struggling during the second set, so I tend to pick up the 3's. Overall, not too shabby.

Day 40: I've entered Hell.

Day 40: No More Trouble Zones - full 40 minute DVD

Seriously, that work out is NO JOKE. I think it makes the shred seem easy in comparison to this workout. It is just intense. Today, I tried to do the majority of the workout with 5lb weights instead of 3's, and it went fairly well. My triceps are pissed off. The ab/core circuits are seriously killer, they make you want to cry. If this video doesn't get my body in shape, I don't know what will.

I wish it wasn't 40 minutes or I would do this in place of the Shred and just supplement with cardio (there's no cardio in this DVD). My goal is to do this 3 days per week, and the shred the others. It's such a fantabulous workout I really want to do it as often as I can. I was able to get Lilah & Clara napping early today which allowed me an interruption FREE workout........amazing. Doesn't happen very often!

The one great thing about the DVD is that you don't have to do the entire 40 minute workout. You can pick and choose each circuit if you are crunched for time, which I think is GREAT.

Seriously! Buy this video.....only $9 at Target. Worth EVERY penny.

Day 39: My FIRST 5K!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Day 39: Running - I think I have officially ditched the couch to 5K at this point...

Weather: Cloudy, 50 degrees and windy

Duration: 32:10
Distance: 3.1 miles!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 5K baby!
Pace: 10:20 mins/mile



Today, I ran my very first 5K EVER! Even in the best shape of my life (college), I never ran. This is such a huge accomplishment! I can't believe it. When I started running yesterday, I never intended to run 3.1 miles. I felt horrible. I wasn't motivated. I hurt. I had to run. And I did. When I went to make a left onto Fogg Road to go home, I made a last minute decision to keep going straight through another neighborhood. I figured I could walk if I got too tired. I ran for 2.25 miles before I needed to walk, and at that point, I only walked for about 2-3 minutes before starting to run again. I was too far into it now, I had to finish! I had to complete 3.1 miles. AND I DID.

I felt so motivated when I finished! I seriously felt so good. I felt like I could keep going! No, really! Don't get me wrong, I never said I loved it! I still have a love-hate relationship with running. I hate it while I am doing it. I love it when I finish. I love the feeling. Especially after obtaining a goal less than halfway through my 90 day challenge.

I was so motivated when I got home, I threw on The Shred, level 1, and went to town. I was in shock at how easy it was for me! I used 8lb weights for a few of the exercises, and 3lbs for the lateral raises with the side lunges. I barely could get through it was no weights and 3lb weights just weeks ago.

Why did I ever stop exercising in the first place?

Day 38: Yoga is a lot like labor

Day 38: Jillian Michaels, Yoga: Meltdown

Yes, you read the title right!

I haven't done enough Yoga in my life to know the different types. I do know it's a great work out that does a good job in toning your body, etc. The only yoga I've done consistently is the Jillian Michaels Yoga: Meltdown. She does these crazy-to-me poses and has you hold them for 15 seconds. I swear, you have to breath through these for 15 seconds to get through them. Today, I had flashbacks of being in labor with the girls having to breath just like that to get through a contraction........except, I wasn't in labor, I was doing a damn yoga video! Having all three of my girls without drugs, definitely forces you to concentrate, not get too ahead of myself, and to relax. Yoga forces you to do the same in many instances.

So, if you're looking for a challenging Yoga work out - try it! and let me know if it gives you flashbacks of childbirth! :)

I had been doing a lot of weights lately, so I thought I'd give my body a break and just do a yoga. I really enjoy it. It's so relaxing, but at the same time, it gets my heart pumping. Level 1 is getting easier, though I am not quite ready to tackle level 2 on this DVD yet. I still struggle with the Chataronga push ups, and holding the T pose for 15 seconds. Not fun!

Whatcha doin' Wednesday???

Today is the first "Whatcha doin' Wednesday" -

Tell us who you are.....what you've been doing (not just today, but for past week or so)............what you like.......what you hate.........what's the hardest thing about getting in shape/exercising/healthy living..........any recommendations? And anything else you want us to know.....

I thought this may be a great way to learn more about each other as well as get some support & motivation from others.

Leave a comment below............so what are you doing????? Don't be shy!

You all know what I am doing :) - but, I'll post what I am doing exactly later. I'm trying to decide if I want to have some quiet time or do some Yoga! Choices......choices.

Day 37: The Shred is easy...

Day 37: Jillian Michaels: No More Trouble Zones (full 40 minute version)

HOLY CRAP! I just got my ass handed to me!

Today, I went to Target and bought the Yoga: Meltdown and No More Trouble Zones. I don't think they'll be on OnDemand much longer, and I wanted to make sure I had them at home.

On OnDemand, the No More Trouble Zones is only 20 minutes, and is challenging. The DVD is 40 minutes. Today, I did the full 40 minutes and holy shit! It is like the Shred but 40 minutes and NO cardio. It's definitely challenging, but an awesome 40 minute workout. I absolutely LOVE the ab circuits - there are two! Love them! The lunges are getting easier to do, I probably could go up to 5lbs next time, as well as the triceps. With the Shred, you are dying, but by that time, you're almost done....with this dvd, you are dying, and STILL have 20 minutes left of pretty intense circuits!

Definitely makes you sweat! I say try it! Definitely a GREAT FULL body workout that will leave your whole body shaking :)

**Check back for Whatcha doin' Wednesday tomorrow! 

Day 36: Whoa!

Day 36: Running - I think I've kind of fell of the couch to 5K wagon?

Weather: Sunny, 60 with moderate winds

Duration: 30:13

Distance: 2.9 miles (personal best!)


Pace: 10:25 mins/mile (personal best!)

I think I've gone crazy. I absolutely killed my last pace of 11:17 mins/mile. I am able to run a lot more lately, but I still don't like it. Today, I ran for about 1.9 miles before I had to take a break for a few minutes. Not bad. The beginning hurt like hell. When I got home, I still felt good and had a ton of energy. I threw on Jillian Michaels: Trouble Zones and went to town. Unfortunately, they cut it off halfway on OnDemand, so it was about 20 extra minutes of weight training and Abs. A perfect workout for after a run.

Today was also the first day I felt really sore after doing Level 2 of the Shred. I feel it in my lower gluts and abs! YEAH! Get those abs back in shape.

Whatcha doin' Wednesdays.....

I am going to start a new thing here on my blog.....I know a lot of you have joined in on my 90 day fitness challenge.....some of you I do not know.....some of you I know well.

We are all trying to motivate ourselves to better ourselves in lots of different ways.

In a way to motivate each other, I thought it might be fun to have one day a week where we all talk about what we are doing......what we hate.....what we love.....how we do it with kids.......etc....

So, stay tuned for this Wednesday when I start "Whatcha doin' Wednesdays....."

Don't be shy....even if I don't know you, please participate :) 

Day 35: Even on Easter

Day 35: Level 2, Shred

Yes. Even on Easter, I mustered up some energy and got down to business! Kevin and I 'hmmmmmm'd' and "hawwwd' over whether or not we should exercise. It was Easter. Did we have time?

Of course! I thought about all the food I could be eating today, and I didn't want to have that guilt. So. We did. and I am glad we did!

Today was the 4th day of level two of the Shred. I have to say, it IS getting easier. I don't feel like I am going to die. I feel like I can complete the exercises without having to stop.

34: Run, Forest, Run...

Day 34: Week 5 of Couch to 5K

Weather: Sunny, 50 degrees with light winds.....another perfect morning!

Duration: 30:58
Distance: 2.73 miles
Pace: 11:17 mins/mile

Today felt like the last time I ran, though I was able to run for a lot longer distance before I had to stop and take a break. I did the same course I did the last time, the last 5 minutes of my run hurt pretty bad! I almost had to stop and walk a bit, but I kept moving. I still don't understand how some people can run for HOURS!

Day 33: The wall.

Day 33: Yoga: Meltdown with Jillian Michaels

Today, I've hit the wall. I thought I was all motivated to work out....until I started. My whole body was just sore. My groin especially. I felt so weak, and didn't even want to finish, but I made myself.

I haven't taken a break in almost two weeks, so I just did Yoga, took it easy, and finished.

I can't complain! I've felt so good lately...

Day 32: Love-Hate Relationship

Day 32: Couch to 5K, week 5: Run 8, walk 5, Run 8......repeat.

Weather: Sunny, 63 - light winds - perfect.

Duration: 30:33 (longest run time yet)
Distance: 2.72 miles (longest run yet)
Pace: 11:12 mins/mile (I think best pace yet)

No one ever said I had to love or hate running, right? Well, good. Because right now, I am not feeling the love, but I am certainly not hating it either. I do however enjoy seeing my progress each time I run. Today was probably one of my top 3 running days yet. It wasn't too hot, not to windy, not too cold, just perfect. Emmie did an awesome job running with me, and I got a burst of energy right around minute 20 like I seem to do each run. The 10-15 minute point seems to really hurt the most, and I think this is the part that is slowing me down because I need to take a break.

The couch to 5K says to run for 8 minutes, walk for 5, and repeat, but today, I ran, and then walked, and after walking for 2 minutes, I felt like I recovered enough to start running again, and I did. I will admit, I seem to be going away from what the couch to 5K exactly, and going more by how I feel. Not sure if this is a good thing or not.

After I returned home, I did some abs......and I feel the work I did on them yesterday! Whoa! Hopefully those muscles are remembering they are needed after being hidden by a cute baby bump for so long!

Here is my run today: