Trying To Get Back Into It

Friday, December 25th - Christmas day! I still managed to do some yoga. I didn't overeat too much at lunch and had very little for dinner that night.



Saturday, December 26th - I went to the gym, ran 3 miles on the treadmill and lifted a little. Not my usual workout, but I was in a little different place that what I'm accustomed to so I adjusted a few things.



Sunday, December 27th - I slept in and then ate really bad for the afternoon. I went to do Plyometrics and then ended up sick about half way through. That's why they tell you to not eat about an hour before you work out I suppose.



Monday, December 28th - Day to get on the plane. I ate clean all day long until I arrived home, starving at 9:30PM. But fairly good all in all.



Tuesday, December 29th - Tad and I went out and ran 8 miles at a 10:18 pace. It felt really good. It was a little slick outside from the snow and moisture Oklahoma had gotten. But the sun came out and started to melt the slickness away. I was busy at work too, so I didn't eat a whole lot there, just good clean food.



Wednesday, December 30th - I had to be at work at 9AM this morning, so I didn't run beforehand. I meant to go to the gym afterwards, but...I decided lunch and shopping were more important for once! Eek...although Tad and I are going to do the Race Into the New Year 5K at 11P tonight.



So...I'm off to nap and then get up to do that to celebrate the coming of 2010! What are you doing to start off on the right foot this year? :-)

Holidays Are Taking A Toll....

And I'm NOT liking it! Weather, holidays, food, time, stress....AHHH! I kind of feel as though I'm making excuses, but I know that I'm being honest with myself too. Let's back up -

Friday, December 18th - 3 miles on the treadmill after work. Good and then lifteda little too. I felt strong, but have just been bored, once again with my current routine.

Saturday, December 19th - got up at 6AM and went and ran 6 miles (10:14/mile) with my girl Shelley. I got to catch up with her since she'd been gone on vacation the week before. I remember reading in Runners World about how you should try to put runs with your social group, but I remember thinking that I could never do that because none of my friends run - EXCEPT SHELLEY! But she's totally my girl, so I love chatting with her during our hour, 6 miles.

Sunday, December 20th - I didn't have a super busy day at work, so I went in a little later and went to the gym before hand. My roommate and I were having a holiday party at our house after work, so I knew that there would be no time then! So I went before, and I remember having another girl notice how 'correct' and 'well' I did pushups! That surprised me, but made me pretty proud. I can do about 23-25 now in one set (a little rest, but still in the position).

Monday, December 21st - My roommate and I went and joined a group after work. They were only running 4 miles, and we both wanted to run farther, but we went along. It was quite a bit faster than what I usually run and Tad stayed at the front of the group, and I at the back. We did 4.05 at a 9:57 pace (for me). I was pretty sore afterwards.

Tuesday, December 22nd - I worked 10:45AM - 9:30PM that night because it was my final night before leaving for vacation to Iowa. So...no workout. Just work.

Wednesday, December 23rd - Plane time at 5AM! I DID make it to the gym though and got 3.75 miles in on the treadmill while my mother ran to Wal-Mart. It probably averaged about 10:15 or so.

Thursday, December 24th - I meant to get up and go to the gym, but it closed at 12PM. I had to do the family's hair before the salon closed as well and it is much too cold and wet up here to run outside in my brand NEW shoes! So tomorrow, I want to get up and do Yoga and then hopefully after lunch do my P90X Plyometrics. I brought the DVDs with me, in case I couldn't make it to the gym, and of course, the gym is CLOSED all DAY tomorrow!

Goal: PLEASE DON'T GAIN WEIGHT WHILE YOU'RE HOME!

And Now....We Bring You A New PR!!!

Tuesday, December 15th - My long LONG day at work. So - I took the day off. I was busy at work and so when I got home. I just snacked a little bit and then headed to bed about 11PM.

Wednesday, December 16th - I woke up bright and early with my alarm at 8AM. Tad and I had talked about starting the run about 8:30/9:00AM. So I got up and ate oatmeal and had my hot tea. I was bundled up and ready to start the 18 mile run that we said we were going to accomplish last week! I had Tad follow me down to the 21st street bridge and I parked there. Then I joined him and we drove down to 55th and Riverside to start. We ran North, passing my car, and then up past SW Blvd bridge and continued on to the outskirts of Sand Springs. Mile 9 didn't seem to come fast enough, and after we turned around 10, 11, and 12 seemed to happen without too much interruption. The Goo pack was definitely out, along with the water bottle too. I kept thinking that we were almost to my car, and that we would stop for a moment, because Tad wanted to get his water bottle and we were going to take off our gloves and sweatshirts. So that was a VERY short break. The next 3.5 miles were LONG LONG LONG though. About mile 16, 16.5, I had to keep telling myself that I could do this, that it wasn't this bad. And I started thinking about all the mean things that people have told me before, about how I can't do something, or that I'm the 'biggest girl I've ever dated' or how I don't want to be fat anymore. About 17, 17.5 I started going a little faster just because I really wanted it to be over. I didn't want to run anymore, I was done done DONE! I finished and could barely walk. But I did make it to the restroom and then just kind of sat against the brick wall while Tad got his water.
*sigh* That was hard. I felt like crying after we were finished.

So - 18 miles with an average pace of 10:40. Not bad. Only 8.2 more to go to do a marathon! *sigh* That's so long....and so far.....

Today is Thursday, and I probably COULD have gone and lifted at the gym. But...I'm not. We're going to rest again and go tomorrow after work. If I don't run before (just an easy 2-3 miles) then I will run tomorrow after work and then lift again.

I go home to Iowa next week, leaving Wednesday, so I'm not sure exactly how that will affect my running schedule, but I'm sure it will through a cramp in it here and there! Wish me luck!

~Christa

Setback...But NOT Failure!

So the 18 miles didn't happen. :-(

Shelley bailed - well, sick kid prevailed. And so Tad and I went out on our own along Riverside, but neither of us had the 3 hours to dedicate to running the full 18 miles because we had to be at work at 3. (We didn't start until 11AM to figure out the weather and partnering situation.)

I wore my new shoes that I had just gotten as well. Honestly, perhaps not the best idea. The kid said that whenever he buys a new pair, he goes out and runs a half marathon. Well, the first 5 miles were a little rough and then I still had 5 more to go! Tad and I ended up doing 10 miles at a 10:47 pace, which isn't too bad for a slower run, with new shoes and pretty chilly weather. I hadn't been feeling as strong as what I usually feel. I'm not sure if it was from the 2 miles on the treadmill the day before, the yoga, or the lifting workout but I was a little worn out.

So that was Thursday before work.

Friday, December 11th - I was still worn out and so I made myself go the gym. I told myself, just a little cardio and you can return home. So I sat on the bike and rolled though 10 miles and about 300 calories and then retired for the evening.

Saturday, December 12th - Once again, wasn't feeling super full of energy, and I had a holiday party to attend that evening. Part of me wanted to go home and take a nap, but part of me hoped that running would give me some energy. So I went to and ran on the treadmill - 6 @ 10:05 pace. It was pretty good, read Runners World while I was at it. I can't just run on the treadmill at the gym without some sort of reading material, unless I'm in the cardio room. It's just much MUCH too boring. The guys aren't that hot to look at, and I know that I look kind of scary how much I sweat (especially for a girl)!

Sunday, December 13th - BEAUTIFUL day outside, and I really wanted to go run...but I knew they were closing the gym at 6PM, and since I don't get off work until then....I knew that I would have to go before if I wanted to lift. So did that and felt really good, strong. But then after work, it got chilly and windy. :-( So I just had dinner and cleaned the house instead.

Monday, December 14th - Going to bed DOES pay off. I got up bright and early and headed out and did kind of a 'tempo' (?) run. 7 miles total, averaging 10:00 / mile. I would run a mile around 10:00 and under and then for .25 I would bring it down to about 10:20-10:30 (or try to). I did that and kind of shocked myself with how well I did with being able to stay up to speed. I was quite proud of myself!

So....tomorrow will be a lifting day and hopefully Tad and I (NO), we WILL make it out on Wednesday, it's supposed to be around 50 degrees. And we'll complete our 18 mile run! We WILL DO IT! And then just rest the remainder of the day for me, and possibly start back to the gym on Thursday or Friday with lifting.

I do need to start doing something with food though. This month, I haven't really lost any more weight. I of course, want to lose a little bit more, to get down to my high school weight, which is about 10 more pounds. It took me about 6 months to lose 20, so I know it will take another few to lose the last 10. Those are the hardest anyways, I think. 10 more pounds OR one more size and I would be happy. I did say though, that my REAL realistic goal for the holidays, was to just not gain any weight back, and so far, I seem to be doing alright with that. But I probably should go back to counting calories in - calories out and trying to maintain that. Because since I run now, I'm just like - "Oh, I can eat that, I ran. Or I'll run tomorrow. Or I'm going to run 18 Wednesday, no big deal." But it IS a big deal, they're still calories and they are keeping me from how I want to look. Granted, I feel SO much better now than what I did a year ago or even 2 years ago, but I want to feel how I felt 5 years ago and be THAT confident. And honestly, probably even more so, because I don't know very many 23 year old woman that are still their high school size and can go out and run 16 miles or are training for a marathon. But I am that woman and hear me ROAR!!!

Just Keeps Going & Going & Going....

Friday, December 4th - Day OFF after the 16 mile run.

Saturday, December 5th - 3 miles on the treadmill @ about a 10:40 pace. Then I did my lifting workout. That night, I went out 2-stepping with a friend. My legs were a little sore afterwards, just from having to move in a different way.

Sunday, December 6th - 8 miles after work at a 10:27 pace. I ran from Utica Square around midtown, TU, Cherry Street and back. It was a little chilly and my iPod died about 4.5 miles into it but it really wasn't too bad.

Monday, December 7th - I took a lunch at work and went and lifted at the gym. I've been finding it a nice change when I'm not busy at Ihloff to go lift/run at Gold's, right down the road. I'm really glad now that I decided to get my membership so close. I go and work out, shower and then come back to work and a good deal of time has passed that I wasn't busy, and I still feel accomplished. After work, I went to 21st & Riverside and had wanted to run with a group from Runner's World, but they were having a leaders meeting, so I ran along Riverside by myself. I ran a 4.41 mile run at a 9:51 pace. I don't think I've ever ran that pace, not by myself anyways. It was REALLY REALLY cold though, so I was just trying to get it done and over with. Brrr!!!!

Tuesday, December 8th - Day off again. I usually work at Ihloff from 12-9, so sleeping in is always nice.

Wednesday, December 9th - "Day off" from Ihloff. I went to Yoga class at Gold's to start with. I never want to go to the class, but afterwards, I always feel so much better, so accomplished and STRETCHED OUT. I really enjoy that she makes modifications for people that are more novice or advanced. I wish I could have someone to consistently remind me to stand up straight, shoulders back, DON'T wear high heels, and keep calm and having little or no stress in my life. After class, I ran 2 miles on the treadmill. After lunch, I returned and did some lifting.

Right now, I'm lifting 3-4 days a week. Last round I was doing 14-8-6. This round is 12-10-8. I am getting a little bored with the same exercises. I used to isolate each part (back, arms, shoulders, etc.), but now I do more of circuit training workout. I jump back and forth to give the muscle time to rest, without actually resting and wasting time.

Tomorrow I'm supposed to go out and run 18 miles. I'm definitely more than a little intimidated. Shelley said she may only be able to run 6; she doesn't know for sure. Tad (my roommate) wants to go too, but we have to all be at work at 3PM. It's like 3 hours of running we're going to be doing, and then having to work a full schedule after that at Ihloff, will be interesting. I did it last week, but that was 16 and it wasn't as cold outside.

Previous Mileage Goal

I ran 92.4 miles last month. That's about 10,164 calories burned or about 3 pounds. Dangit...where are those pounds and why am I eating so much more then!!! Because I'm hungry - duh. I'm burning it and I'm hungry, so I eat.

92.4 out of 110 (previous goal) - almost there!

I set a new record for myself! Shelley and I were supposed to go out yesterday, but it was a very crappy, rainy, windy day. So we ventured out today! 16 miles for the first time ever!!! We kept a very good pace - 10:34 / mile. Shelley very much helped keep the pace up and I helped her go farther; we definitely work well as a team.

Monday, November 30th - Ran 4 miles on the treadmill about a 10:34 / mile with an incline of .5 & 1.0. Then I returned later and lifted. It was a really good workout. I'm almost through my 'heavy' phase. (14 - 8 - 6 reps) I can very much see that I'm getting stronger and able to lift much more and do many many more pushups!

Tuesday, December 1st - day off. 12 hour day at work instead.

Wednesday, December 2nd - wanted to do my long run but the weather was just not cooperating. Instead, I went to the gym and biked 10 miles and did another awesome lifting workout.

Thursday, December 3rd - See Above! 16 @ 10:34 pace!!!

My legs hurt still. We ran from 9:30 - 12:30. I had to work at 3PM at the salon until 9. I came home and took an epsom salt bath with some Active and Blue Oil mixed it. I think it helped a little, although I could really use a massage just to move the lactic acid and muscle around. I think that standing after at work is a good thing, so I can't sit and just become worse, but at the same time, when I'm super busy, I don't get to eat. :-( And after burning over 2,000 calories, I need FOOD! And not at 10PM at night!

Tomorrow I might try to go run 2 or 3 miles; we'll see how I feel. Gym workout afterwards with a personal trainer to do Back. I had a guy tell me that he thought my back was the strongest muscle on my body, but I never really feel as though I'm working it out right. It gets a little sore, but I'm not sure if it's from lifting or just working at the salon and poor posture. So...we'll do it right, with INSTRUCTION for once! I'm super excited, hopefully I can still put my arms up to do hair on Saturday afterwards!

Weekend Update

Friday, November 27th - worked out at the gym; elliptical for 50 minutes, sweat POURING off of me. I needed it though, because I ate HORRIBLY on Wednesday night, Thanksgiving dinner wtih close friends. And then of course Thanksgiving lunch and dessert too on Thursday. At least I ran both days, but STILL. Ahhh! The gym closed Thursday at 2PM, so I couldn't make it in before that with the Von Franken run and then cooking and cleaning up to go to lunch.
I made myself get on the scale that morning though, just to show myself that the eating crazy bad food was NOT good for me. And sure enough, I had gained some weight. :-( So 50 minutes on the elliptical and then an hour or so lifting and doing pushups and all the other crazy stuff I do!

Saturday, November 28th - I got up and ran 3 @ 10:26 / mile. I had a fairly busy day at work and I just wasn't full of energy afterwards, so I just went to the gym and rode the bike for about 45 minutes (11 miles) and then did a little core work.

Sunday, November 29th - Ran 8 miles @ a 10:27 pace. I ran up to Brookside and almost to Cherry Street from my house. It was a good run, the rolling hills were nice, slowed me down a little. I started losing energy about mile 5.5-6. But we pushed on through to keep it under 10:30. I wanted to go the gym tonight, but I'm kind of tired and haven't eaten a whole lot today, so I think I'm going to go home and get to bed earlier than later this evening.

Goals for the week:
Monday - run & lift after work, then Runner's World for meeting
Tuesday -OFF
Wednesday - 15-16 miles with Shelley
Thursday - quality 7-8 miles then lift directly after
Friday - elliptical & lift
Saturday - easy 2-3 miles and maybe gym, but perhaps not

Also, no eating 2 hours before bedtime. 8.5 hours of sleep EVERY SINGLE night. That's important. And I need to start drinking my protein shakes again. I haven't been drinking them, and I also haven't been losing much more weight. So perhaps for me: protein shakes = loss of weight. So I SHOULD DRINK THEM!

Measuring Up!

October 20th - November 19th 2009


weight : -2.2 pounds
BMI: -1.4%


Chest: -.75 (had to finally go bra shopping for the next size down!)
Waist: -1 (real waist), +.5 (jeans waist)
Hips: ----

~2 different measurements for upper arms
Right upper arm: ---, -.3
Left upper arm: +.3, +.35
Right forearm: -.2
Left forearm: ---

~3 different measurements for upper
Right thigh: -.5 for all 3!
Left thigh: -.5, -.3, -.3
Right calf: -1
Left calf: -1

So, looking back, I'm still doing WONDERFUL with losing size and although it doesn't really seem like the scale is moving much, it's still going down and with body fat percentage, which is really more important. I did have to go bra shopping for the next size down and I am wearing the same size that I wore when I lived in Iowa. I would really like to drop one more and be VERY comfortable in that size, like I was in high school. I'm having to go and buy all new shirts now, because nothing fits, and I just don't seem to have the time! Ahh! I always feel more confident when I have clothes on that fit, but I just don't understand why everything has to be so darn big on me that's in my closet. It took me a VERY LONG TIME to build up that black wardrobe!

I feel as though I have to be very very careful this holiday season because I love comfort food and it's the holidays and I don't usually eat this...and all the other million excuses that we come up with! I don't want to gain anything back, and since today is Thanksgiving and I already feel like I've gained at least 3 or 4 pounds....this is my pledge!

I will NOT gain weight over this holiday season. In fact, by January first, I will either still be at my current weight or under it! I will still be running, and running either a half or FULL marathon on January 17th and I don't want to be lugging around 5 or 6 extra pounds!!! By the time I run either race in January, I expect to be that next size smaller, if I'm not....then I really need to reevaluate some things. 2 months....high school look alike....get ready world!!!

Week Updating

Tuesday, November 17th - Gym in the morning.

Wednesday, November 18th - 8 miles at 11:05 / pace. I ran out at 91st & Garnett and when I turned around, I fell and twisted my ankle! My first thought was "Oh no! The half is this Sunday! I CANNOT be hurt." And then...."There's NO one around here to help me if I need help; I need to get up and run the 4 MILES back to my car!"

Thursday, November 19th - Gym in the afternoon.

Friday, November 20th - 4 miles at easy pace at the gym. (Around 11:??) Then cycled 7 miles just to burn some calories after our Thanksgiving potluck at work.

Saturday, November 21st - NOTHING. Rest day because the Half Marathon was Sunday!!!

Monday, November 22nd - Nothing again. No energy, and worked after the half on Sunday and a full day Monday at work too.

Tuesday, November 23rd - I felt much better, but didn't get up early enough to run before heading to work. I got a massage before I started though and felt much better.

Wednesday, November 24th - Ran 3 miles at the gym on the treadmill, about a 10:30 (??) mile with an incline at times. Then cycled 4 miles too with some stretching afterwards.

Thursday, November 25th - Ran 4.3 miles along Riverside, averaging a 10:05 pace. A little chilly out. I would have LIKED to go to the gym but they closed today at 2PM, and I didn't finish lunch until after 2:30PM. So...my belly fills big and I feel like I need to work out VERY hard tomorrow!

Goals for the weekend:
Friday - gym time, lifting & elliptical after work
Saturday - Run 3 miles before work & gym after
Sunday - (starting marathon training....maybe!) 7-8 'tempo' miles in the morning and then after hopefully to the gym again!
Monday - Easy 3-4 miles before work and then have a meeting at Runner's World for marathon training talk!

Route 66 Half Marathon Accomplished!!!!

First half marathon ever!!! This is a picture of Shelley (my mentor), her husband Shannan, and I after the race. Pizza, beer, and cookies of course too!

This was pretty tough, but I'm SUPER PROUD of how well I did. The longest I had ever run remember, is 15 miles. So 13.1 is doable, I know this. I got up late, as always, and rushing out the door eating my oatmeal. Banana too right before the start line, with my water bottle on my back, some Goo secured too, along with some Glide and I'm good to go.

I started using the Goo about mile 4 and drinking about mile 5. Then it just continued on and on and on - never seeming to end. I saw Shannan on Riverside about mile 8 or so, while he was on the way back. Then I passed Shelley about mile 9 going back to the end. Tad was running the marathon (my roommate) and I saw him about mile 10 (for me).

I finished this race at 9:46 minute miles - 2:09:38 (according to my Garmin). That's faster than I did the Tulsa Run and definetly faster than I had planned. My goal was to just keep it under 10:45 or 10:30 minute miles.

Place : 990
Age Division Place: 72/138
Female Division: 455/1254
10K Time - 58:14
Place @ 10K : 1123
10 Mile Mark Time -1:39:29
Place @ 10 Mile - 1022
End time : 2:09:37
Average mile - 9:54

So my thoughts on results - I did well for a female. Not so awesome for my age group, but just my guess...but there were probably more males than females in my age group. I ran a fast 10K than I ever have before. At the 10 mile mark, that was only 3 minutes more than what I did the Tulsa Run in (9.3 miles) in. And I must have passed a lot of people, over 100 because I moved up in rank that much. And then to the end, I must have passed another 42 people to move up again. So my Garmin is a smidge off in recognizing pace averages, according to this, but it's still pretty darn close and AWESOME!!!

Run Run Runner

Thursday, November 12th - 10 miles at 10:32 pace. Good run, didn't take any water with me and started tiring about mile 8. Goal was to keep it under 10:45, so very satisfied.

Friday, November 13th - I had a really bad headache at work and just went home instead of stopping at the gym. I fell asleep about 9PM and then went to my bed about 11PM and slept until morning.

Saturday, November 14th - Woke feeling refreshed and went for a 3.5 mile run at around 11:00 minute pace I believe (?). That evening after work, I lifted at the gym, with energy even!

Sunday, November 15th - Didn't get up and go for a run in the morning, because it was raining. Instead, spent an hour on the elliptical at the gym after work. I was really REALLY yucky sweaty and did a few core exercises afterwards. It felt really good, kind of relieving to sweat like that again.

Monday, November 16th - Once again, didn't get up and go for a run. Needed to, but just tired from the previous night's workout. Work wasn't too busy, so not much energy expended there either. So after work, I did a speed workout on the treadmill at the gym. I warmed up for 1 mile at 5.5 (10:34/mile) and then intervals. Run .25 mile at 8:34/mile and then walk-jog .25 mile X 3. I then ran until it equaled 5 miles of running for the day. I sweat a LOT again. At one point, one of the personal trainers came up to talk about doing a back workout later on in the week, and mentioned how sweaty I was. :-) Good times!

Once again...I need to stop snacking late at night. I'm so bad about just eating nuts and dried fruit. It's not an UNHEALTHY snack but it's not good to eat 2 cups of that an hour or so before bedtime! Errr....my goal is to NOT gain weight back over the holidays and I need to do measurements, but so far, I have gained 2 pounds back this month. :-( Shelley tries to tell me it's muscle or water weight, and my clothes aren't any tighter, but still.
Actually, I went shopping today and was putting on a smaller size skirt. But skirts are sized a little differently than pants and my legs are probably still too big to fit into the next size down. :-( Soon, hopefully soon. Goal is just to keep under control during the holidays. That is my goal.

3 :-('s This Time! But Dance Is Back!

Thursday, November 5th - Lifted weights in the morning.

Friday, November 6th - I wanted to get up and run in the morning but I was tired from the long day at the salon the night before and meeting a new friend. So I ran after work instead, 5 miles @ 11:10 pace. Not too bad, but I ran from work to the Creek Turnpike trail, and I'm not sure I'll do that again. There isn't a sidewalk along Memorial, so it's kind of....'trail-like' I suppose. Or just mushy grass and dodging signs and cars is a better explanation! :-( After that, I headed to the gym and worked out again. I was pretty exhausted afterwards, but dinner with a friend commanded my attention.

Saturday, November 7th - I WAS going to go the gym, but it was a friend's birthday party this evening and I knew that if I didn't take a nap, I wasn't going to make it. So I skipped. Yes, I took a full day off.

Sunday, November 8th - Alright, so now I suck. I was supposed to get up and run 10 with Shelley. She ran 10 the day before with Fleet Feet and so she wasn't running with me. So not only did I NOT run 10 in the morning, but I also did NOT run the 6 at night either. I'm not really liking this time change thing because now when I get off work at 5, it's almost too late to go running. So getting off work at 6 at Utica on Sundays, it's already pitch black! :-(

Monday, November 9th - The energy has returned! I went out for a 5 mile run on Riverside and kept it at 10:27, which I was VERY happy about! They are getting more and more of the trail completed, so I parked about 56th and Riverside and ran north to do something a little different. I wanted to do 6, but #1 I didn't have time, #2 I wasn't really sure if I could keep it at the faster pace for that long. That evening, I worked out again at the gym with weights.

Tuesday, November 10th - Joined 30 minutes of cycling class and a few pullups and ab work afterwards. Took the night off for some rest.

Wednesday, November 11th - Today! I went to Yoga class this morning and had a realization. I am NOT as good as I thought I was! :-( I remember looking at the schedule afterwards and thinking to myself, "Yes, today was a POWER Yoga class, yes it was!". It was quite difficult and she was moving through the movements quite quickly. Excellent and different workout though! I needed it! I left for a little bit, and ate some lunch, got a pedicure, and then returned to lift weights and actually did the bench press in the GUYS section today. I did the bar first, which I think is like 45 pounds (if I'm wrong, someone COMMENT AND LET ME KNOW!) then 65X12, then 75X10. The last 2 with 75 were really tough and I kind of wished that someone was spotting me. I've dropped the bar on my face when I was in high school, and I was fine, but I was very lucky that no broken nose and all my teeth were left in my mouth!

Goals for upcoming few days / week: 10 miles tomorrow, keeping it at least 11:00 and under. Weights on Friday & Saturday if I have enough energy. 2-3 easy miles on Saturday if possible. 7-8 miles Sunday morning.
Oh, YES. A new exciting thing has come about as well! I'm going to start taking dance again I believe! Hip hop, ballet, contemporary, creative, all the good times will be renewed in my life! Yeah!

It May Be After Halloween

But this is how I feel.....

First off, I could murder Shelley. She told me, "Oh, start at 96th and Riverside and then run under the bridge and it takes you to Memorial and Mingo and over to Grace church and then just turn around. It's very pretty."

Pretty it is and HILLY! Ahhhhh!!!!

But I suppose I need some hill work incorporated, otherwise, I probably would get too bored. But when I'm at mile 12 of my first 15 mile run ever and there is this huge hill and I really HONESTLY and truly thought about WALKING it (for the FIRST TIME EVER) that is NOT a good sign! But I DID NOT!

I am tired. I ran 15 miles in under 3 hours, average pace 11:10. I'm very proud of that, and I think I'm done for the day. I usually spend time at the gym on my day off, doing yoga, cycling, and then maybe weights. That usually equals about 2.5-3 hours, but I think 2.75 hours of straight running and burning 1,884 calories is equilivant today. We'll go back tomorrow, Friday, and Saturday and lift. My legs will need the break tomorrow.

It was a fairly good run though, although at mile 6, I was starting to get a little tired. I took water with me today, which is new. I hate carrying things, so I put it in my sports bra in the back, seemed to work well. I started drinking about mile 7.5, when I turned around. Then I had my gum about that time, and then my little cinnamon disc about mile 12. I honestly think that was too late. Perhaps with runs longer than 12 miles, I might need 2 pieces of candy. They're 30 calories each, and they're just sugar and some carbs. And I start getting run down about mile 9 or 10. And it takes me about 2 miles or so to suck one through.

My roommate says he doesn't use anything, but the 2 girls at work both like Goo and some of the other products for performance. I've used the Goo before and don't dislike it but would prefer to be able to not use it.

Update on Workout:

Monday, November 2nd - first run after the Tulsa run; 3.5 miles after work, out south by the TCC campus. 10:06 / mile. I ran quite fast for me at first and then slowed down a bit after mile 2.5 or so. I think it was because I was aggravated at traffic on the way. Then I visited the gym and did #4 I believe. This day REALLY worked my shoulders. I did "weighted circles", straight arms out to the side with 5 pounds the first time, doing 20 circles forward and 20 circles back. I tried to do with 7.5, but I only got to 20 altogether and I think I strained my wrist a bit doing that. I NEED to get some gloves and possibly a wrist brace too. I need my hands, arms, and wrists for work! Ahh!

Tuesday, November 3rd - back to the gym and just cycled for about 30-35 minutes. Rode about 10 miles or so.

And then today, Wednesday, November 4th - 15 at 11:10 / mile. I'm satisfied. I'll probably run an easy 5 or so on Friday and then Sunday, I think Shelley and I are going to run 10 in the morning before I go to work, and then that night, I think I'll run another 6 to get 16 in for the whole day. That'll be my last 'long run' before the Route 66 Half Marathon on the 22nd! Ahh!!! Only 18 days away!!!

Mileage Goal

I didn't make it to the 110 miles that I wanted to for October, but 76.82 is still pretty darn good!

That's over 2 pounds right there, just FROM RUNNING!

Oh, funny thought. My roommate and I figured up = 1 mile = 100 calories. 26.2 miles = 2620 calories. (Approximately).

To lose a pound = 3500.

So....even if you run a marathon, you're still not going to lose a pound! ;-) I thought it was funny. And sad at the same time!

Tulsa Run!

I finally accomplished something that I said I would do A YEAR ago! This last Saturday, I participated in the 2009 Tulsa Run, with 3 goals.

1. Don't stop.
2. Don't walk.
3. Have under a 10:40, or preferably a 10:30 pace.

And the results my fellow friends, family, and foes......

9.44 miles at an average pace of 10:08!

Granted, I did feel like throwing up and yes, I did a little when I passed the finish line. But I've also come to a conclusion: if I DON'T feel like vomiting at the end, that means that I did NOT push myself hard enough. So I did my best! No water stops, bathroom stops, a little vaseline touch-up at one point. I did have to strip most of my 'weather gear' off about 2 miles (gloves, long sleeved shirt).

This race was awesome though, with the exception of starting. There were SO many people lined up that it took almost 2 minutes to pass the START line and then it was just craziness with people trying to get past each other. Oh, and the HILL at 15th & Denver when you're almost finished but not QUITE there....yeah, that sucked, hardcore. Even with Turkey Mountain hill training help. Not at mile 8 after running that fast, for that long.

But I did take Friday off in preparation, and I even thought about going to the gym Saturday after work, but I was really tired, so I skipped. And...I even skipped Sunday too. I meant to get up early, didn't happen. After work, I was just starving, so a few little pushups, tricep pushups and sit ups, squats, and lunges, and I was out the door for some quesadilla at The Brook!

Monday, November 2nd - I was back on track today! I went for a 3.5 mile run at about a 10:06 pace, which is kind of from Saturday still. I was surprised at how fast I started out at, but it was probably because I was angry at the traffic on the way to my run and then just it being 'rush hour' all the cars keep me moving quickly. After that, I headed to the gym and dripped with sweat there from lifting. My shoulders feel pretty sore tonight from doing or attempting the Y-Presses and the military pushups really made my triceps hurt tonight as well. Good times, good times!

New Lifting Workout & Still Running!

Monday, October 26th - New Upper Body Workout! I put all my P90X exercises together and everything else that I've learned and divided it into about 8 upper body exercises and then added 1 or 2 legs exercises at the end and beginning of each one. It divided up into 5 days, with only about 60-70 minutes of lifting instead of the 90+. It has been a LOT easier to get through this past week by changing that! So day #1 today! I took a girl from work with me, and she wasn't TOO sore the following day, but I think she enjoyed it!

Tuesday, October 27th - I went out for a 3 mile run. I ended up being warmed up at 3, so continued on for 5 miles at a 11:11 / mile. I felt really good at the end. After that, I headed to the gym for Arms #2!

Wednesday, October 28th - Gold's has a Yoga class at 10AM, so not too early for my day off! I attended this and Keri is an AWESOME teacher. She knows how to push the more advanced students in her class (me actually!) and gives everyone options for where they're at. After this, I rode the bike for about 30 minutes. I thought that was going to be it for the day, because I was hungry and had some errands to run. But I ended up going shopping, eating a bite, and coming back and doing Arms #3! I was REALLY sore Thursday from the Yoga and possibly the new Ab exercises that I tried.

Thursday, October 29th - I didn't make it to the gym BEFORE work, so I headed there after for intervals on the treadmill. I believe last time I did 6 X 400 at 7.0 on the treadmill (8:34 / mile). I THINK that's what I did, because I failed at what I tried to do this time. I started out and got 2.5 laps at (2X400 and 1X200) at a 7.5 (8:00 mile). I just couldn't keep it up, either because I was so busy at work and I hadn't eaten much or my legs and knee hurt so much, or I was just being a wuss, not really sure. But I continued, and just slowed it down. So I added 3X400 at 7.0 (8:34 / mile) and then walked to get to 3 miles even. My left knee hurt quite a bit after this, but I had run out of the Tramadol the doctor has prescribed and not had time to pick any more up. I swam a couple laps after this and then sat in the hot tub. I had promised myself while I was still at work that if I went and did intervals, that I could sit in the hot tub, so that was my reward.

Friday, October 30th - Day off! Tomorrow is the Tulsa Run, and speaking of which, I need to get some sleep for my 9.3 mile race!!!

Slacker....

Yep, I will admit it. Diet, weight lifting, running even a little bit too much. Diet again.

Friday, October 16th - 4 miles @ 11:13 / pace. Arms workout that evening.

Saturday, October 17th - Gym workout

Sunday, October 18th - Arms workout again after doing the hair for the models for the Hair Show

Monday, October 19th - 6 Miles on the treadmill @ 5.5 so about...10:34 / pace

Tuesday, October 20th - OFF

Wednesday, October 21st - 12 miles @ 10:52 / pace

Thursday, October 22nd - short arm workout between doing hair for models and hair show that night

Friday, October 23rd - Elliptical for low impact workout

Saturday, October 24th - OFF from being exhausted

Sunday, October 25th - 5 miles @ 11:41 pace

*sigh* So last week was pretty crappy of a week for me. Almost 50 hours for the salon and way too much stress and not properly hydrated or good nutrition.

Next Saturday is the Tulsa Run, so I need to concentrate, do what's right for my body and get enough rest and proper nutrition. I think I'm going to start working out with a girl from work, so that will keep me honest. Time to get back on the proper path and continue towards the stressfree running world!

Time To Measure Up!

One month since the previous measuring day and the results are very motivating!

Weight - lost 6.2 pounds
BMI - remained the same
Chest - +.75 (not a BAD area I suppose to remain 'larger')
Wasit - remained the same
Lower waist - lost .75"
Hips - lost 1.25" YAY!!!
Upper arms - lost .75"
Forearms - remained the same
Thighs - lost .5"-1"
Calf - +.5"

So...I knew that my clothes have been fitting much better, and I've finally taken the time to go clothes shopping and am buying a smaller size too! The same size that I used to wear when I lived in Iowa, which makes me VERY happy. I am about 12 pounds away from the weight that I was when I left high school.

Looking over my measurements, I can definitely tell that the gym has helped me become stronger. Muscle does burn more calories and my hands are showing the difference too! :-( I have to go get some gloves because I still want girly hands, not ones with calluses on them from lifting.

I have made a new friend as well. I've been going to Gold's gym for about 2 months or so now, and I have met a personal trainer who is helping learn new things about nutrition, timing, and better ways to weight train. I have decided to discontinue P90X for right now and try a pyramid sequence of lifting, at least until Jeff teaches me differently. I'm also going to try to follow the 'diet' that he has talked to me about.
He says to eat carbs during the day, not within 3 or 4 hours of bedtime. And, to stop eating at least 1 hour before bed as well. This is the one area that I'm not very good at; I like to snack at night. Especially dried fruit, little protein bars, celery, apples, oranges, and peanut butter, nuts.....lots of snack food. So...vegetables only after about 9PM. We're going to try it, and see what the result is. If it doesn't work and help me lose more weight, then I suppose I can go back to snacking but at least trying it first would be beneficial.

Pick A Number Between 1 & 15....

12 is the number!!! That's my high mileage now for running!!!

And the update:

Thursday, October 8th - just cycled at home for a little bit.

Friday, October 9th - Ran 3 miles, with an average pace of 10:48, feeling MUCH better. That evening, I started a 'new workout'. I had an older guy at the gym approach me and talk to me about not doing P90X because it isolates the muscles more than what I would really want. He said to start my workout by doing the larger muscles and working down to the smaller ones, and doing it in a 'pyramid style'. So...I'm trying it. I've separated the Arm exercises into 2 days and 1 day of Legs. The Arms workout is 14-12-10-12. The legs is 14-12-10. This day when I did the arm workout this new way, my arms were SO SORE afterwards. I was complaining all night long. :-(

Saturday, October 10th - 12 miles with 11:22 average pace. A little slower, yes, but I am quite happy with it. The first 7, 8, and even 9 miles were fairly good. But after mile 10, I just had to keep telling myself that I could eat ANYTHING I wanted after I was done. Chocolate cake, cookie from the coffee shop, ANYTHING. I got through it and truly just wanted to pass out afterwards. Because I did this run AFTER working a full day at the salon! I know...crazy chic. Oh, and yeah, what DID I get to eat? I went to Senor Tequilas and got a shrimp taco salad, ate half and was so tired, took the rest home and passed out.

Sunday, October 11th - I was pretty tired and sore from the previous run, but I did ride my bike at home and honestly...just kind of danced around the house. Oh, I forgot to mention...I did go to the doctor the previous Wednesday. He kind of argued with me back and forth about running at all, telling me that I have a different body type and all this really nice stuff that I didn't want to hear. I came here for some pain pills, please give them to me, and thank you. I don't want to abuse them; I want to be able to walk down the damn stairs! He prescribed Tramodal for me, and I have to say...I have a new best friend. I didn't realize but one of the 'side uses' for this is to help with anxiety. I didn't KNOW what anxiety was until I started to take it and then realized how much calmer and less stressed I felt. I finally don't feel depressed, stressed, anxious, worried, or in pain! I feel like a kid again, and I LOVE it!

Monday, October 12th - The new LEGS workout! Kicked my butt! And yes, my butt hurt too afterwards.

Tuesday, October 13th - Ran with my girl Shelly at Turkey Mountain. We ran 5.57 miles and did hill work, with an average of 11:02/mile.

Wednesday, October 14th - Crazy girl day! I went to Power Yoga at Gold's from 10-11AM. Then I did my Arms workout from 11-12:30PM. Then...a little shopping and came back and did Zumba from 5:30-6:30PM. So...about 3-4 hours at the gym today. A little...different, yes. I know, I have no life, but please don't judge! I was a little apprehensive about the Zumba class though, because I've done Zumba before and not really enjoyed it or thought that it was a good workout. I could tell yesterday that I was working, because I was sweating, but at the end of class, I did kind of think of it as a waste. Let me tell you something - MY HIPS, BUTT, OBLIQUES, ABS, CALVES, everything hurt today! Granted, it could be from Yoga as well, but AMAZING!!! Love it! I know all that hip and booty shaking is good for something!

Thursday, October 15th - Honestly....I stayed up way too late last night and was really tired this morning, so I didn't get up for my run or cycling class. And then I had a super SUPER busy night at work and didn't leave until after 9PM. So...nothing but a little stretching in bed while on the laptop and yes, while eating popcorn. Healthy snack! Tomorrow morning, I'm going to get up and go for a run before work and then work out after work...Arms tomorrow. Yes, Arms #1. (They're numbered #1 & #2 because of so many different things to do.)

Still making progress and still having fun! Tulsa Run is approaching as well and we've got it under control!

Time Out

Wow...after the Zoo Run I was a little bit LOT sore. I'm usually sore after running so much, but the schedule has had to be modified a bit.

Sunday, October 4th (1st day after race) - Biked about 20 minutes, sat in sauna, did about 2/3 of Chest, Shoulders, & Triceps workout; was pretty exhausted and shaky, probably because of the sauna.

Monday, October 5th (2nd day after) - did not feel well at all. Slept in and did not run in the morning. I told myself that I would try to run after work, after the Creative team meeting, but it was raining and I was just exhausted. So...a little gym time just sitting in the hot tub. This is the first day that I don't remember not working out at all.

Tuesday, October 6th (3rd day after) - still did not feel amazing, but told myself that I was going to go for a 6 mile run, twice around La Fortune. I made it once around and it was NOT a good run. It was quite slow and very painful. I went and finished the previous Chest, Shoulders, & Triceps routine. Then after work, I went to swim and sit in the hot tub.

Wednesday, October 7th (4th day after) I should have been fine by this day, but I came down with a stomach bug and was sick Tuesday night. So...I just kind of took care of myself this day. I was scheduled to do my long run this day, but I knew that after waking up in the middle of the night, being sick, and not getting enough sleep, that 11 miles was just not going to happen. I also went to the doctor, not because I was sick but because of how badly my legs have been hurting. I've been taking IBProfen or Naproxen, and usually 6-8 pills a day. Taking that many pills kind of scares me and I'm not really okay with that. The doctor tried to talk me out of running, telling me my body wasn't made for running and perhaps something less high-impact would be better. I told him that wasn't an option, because I had goals to achieve.

This all started out with me wanting to lose weight, but now, I've set a goal and I will finish at least a half marathon, and hopefully a marathon next year too! We'll just have to be a little more careful with training and taking the time to rest, ice, and elevate my legs. I'm trying, but I know that sometimes I don't listen to my body and just go by what my schedule reads.

Today I'm going to just ride the bike at home for a little bit, and then tomorrow morning, we're going to try running again, just 5 miles. And if it goes well, then after work, perhaps another 2-4 miles. Saturday I would like to run 3 miles in the morning and then after just some circuit training and swimming. Sunday is my scheduled long run, and we'll see how strong I'm feeling.

Tulsa Zoo Run 10K 2009

What a beautiful day for a race! Perfect weather, a little sun, a fairly flat race course....gorgeous. I do have to admit though, I was a little disappointed when I found out that we weren't running through the zoo itself though.

The run went very well though; I started a little fast and then fell into a 10:08 pace behind some guy in black shorts and grey shirt, until he stopped at a water station. Then about 4K, I found some other girl to watch and continue behind. Around 5K-6K, it started getting a little hilly, not huge hills, just slow inclines. Marilyn Manson started blaring in my ears and my Turkey Mountain running kicked in too. I just kind of ZOOMED past everyone at that point, even with a few miles left to go. I started to slip a little at the very end, because they posted signs about the 100 yards left and 50 yards left and it was quite 'turny and hilly' there.

I finished a little over 1:02, so shaving off not quite a minute from my previous time! :-) When was the Heart & Sole Race....I want to say August, so about 6 weeks ago or so. I felt a lot stronger today, for sure and not quite as sick when I was finished as last time. Improvements, improvements! Tulsa Run, 15K on Halloween this month!!! We'll be ready!

September's Goals

2240 out of 1900 minutes exercised.

83 out of 130 miles ran.

I think the gym has been a very good thing for me to start going to. I really am enjoying the cycling class that Angie puts on Tuesdays and Thursdays. She's SO full of energy and just loud craziness, that it's hard to not push it and burn some calories!

And the mileage....not as much as I wanted, but that's alright. I have now ran almost 11 miles and that's definitely an accomplishment that I didn't see happening a few months ago. I really think I'm ready for the Tulsa Run - mileage wise, now just need to speed it up a bit.

I've figured out that pain pills do help to take some of the inflammation, but resting is necessary as well. I've started, at night, putting my feet up and icing my knee. Rest, Ice, Compression, and....Elevation! I actually thought it was ICE - forget the Rest part of it! So I'm not trying to run everyday now, and incorportating some hill work, some speedwork and cross training to give my legs a break.

Up & Up The Mileage Goes!

Wednesday, September 23rd - Turkey Mountain and Hill Work! 6.37 miles with a 10:56 / mile pace. That's really a little inaccurate for pacing because running up the hills was MUCH slower than running down them. But I suppose for a median, that's probably good. This time running there was MUCH easier than last time.
That evening Back & Biceps was accommplished at the gym! I do hate having to 'fight' with the guys to use the pullup machine though. When they just sit or hang on it...that's annoying.

Thursday, September 24th - 6 miles around TU's campus this morning. It was a little chilly out. No, it was fairly cold out. I had only worn a tanktop because you know, running produces sweat. I could see my breath when I started out at 6:30AM and I felt a little silly running like that, but oh well. I've never run up here before, but with my new trusty Garmin, no math is required while exerting so much physical energy! I don't know if I really enjoyed this run, because the campus is so....not 'straight'? And because I didn't really know where I was going or have a path to follow, it was a little more difficult. 6 miles with a 11:15 / mile pace.

Friday, September 25th - Long run day. I was supposed to get up in the morning and run, but I was just too exhausted from everything, work, running, boys, friends, reading. So I ran after work down by the Creek Turnpike out south. I was really trying to psych myself up because I really did NOT want to go. I was scheduled for a 110 minute 'Easy run'. The first 3 miles were pretty bad. I wanted to walk, I wanted to just go back to my car, I didn't want to do it. After the 3 mile point, I don't know, I just settled in. I had never ran this before either, but I just ran for an hour and then turned around. I got really excited because at the turning point, I had run over 5 miles, which meant....halfway....I was going to run at least 10 miles that day! That got me REALLY excited and miles 6 and 7 went by pretty well. About mile 7, I started....slipping a little I suppose. I put a cinnamon disc candy in, and then continued on. I started to get a little uncertain about 7:45 though. It had started to get dark, and the lights out there are not the brightest, and I was worried that I wasn't going the right way (although the path only goes one way silly girl), and that I was going to pass my car, and I could no longer see my watch. I made it though, obviously with...10.88 miles with 11:10 mile pace! Super exciting!
That means I can do the Tulsa Run with over a month to spare in training! Part of me wants to go ahead and set a goal for mileage, pace, and time...but we'll just wait. We'll see how I progress.

Saturday, September 26th - I was supposed to get up and do Yoga. Ha, didn't happen. I went to the gym that night and was supposed to do Chest, Shoulders, and Triceps...yeah, nope either. I did Yoga. :-) Easy relaxing, stretching day after a CRAZY Ihloff Saturday Spectacular!

Sunday, September 27th - I was SUPPOSED to get up and run 8 miles. I got up and...made breakfast and now am here. :-) I will run after work, although I pushed yesterday's strength training until then....that's alright. Maybe....later in the week we'll do that. I'm sure it will get accomplished as well.

Eating has been a little better, although if I stay up too late with friends and guys, then I tend to allow myself to indulge, by thinking that, oh, I ran 11 miles today or 6 or whatever. I probably need to NOT do that. That would be beneficial. And going to bed earlier would help the body repair and for me to not be so extremely exhausted and be able to complete my workouts when I need to, on schedule!

Monday & Tuesday

Monday, September 21st - Awakened fairly early and went for a run on Riverside. My trusty Garmin 305 helped me out with knowing my pace and mileage. My mind usually gets too confused with how far I'm going and I really have no idea how fast I'm going. The IPOD doesn't give a very good estimate. I ran 7 miles this morning with an average pace of 11:14. The first 2 miles were fairly tough, a little faster, and then miles 3 and 4 were hard until I really settled in. I got a second wind after I crossed over the bridge back onto the east side of the river and continued down to 41st Street. Perhaps, it's because that's more familiar and I knew exactly how far left I had? Not really for sure. I took a couple Naproxen before I started and they helped when I was finished, but not really during. My legs hurt pretty badly.
Monday night, I decided to totally arrange my living space. I moved everything all around and just really neaten and tidied things up. I have been living with Tad since around March and this is the first time I've changed the furniture. I remember when I was younger, I always did that, almost every 3 months or so. I think it helps me to 'clear my mind' or something. Whenever I would become angry with my parents, that's what I did. I went and cleaned my closets or something strange and weird like that. But! I didn't snack or sit in front of the TV!

Tuesday, September 22nd - Cycling class! I got there a few minutes late, because I just really didn't want to get out of bed. We had a different instructor this time, but it was still a good class. Calories burned and I can definitely feel my legs becoming stronger and more defined. I really enjoy this class and I like that they have it on Tuesdays and Thursdays, my later days to going into work. I can't go this Thursday because of Staff meeting, but I will be back and keep trekking away!

Tomorrow is hill work at Turkey Mountain. I'm still trying to decide whether I want to bike there and then run and then bike home....oh, that's really not sounding like an amazing idea. :-( Later on in the afternoon, I want to go to Gold's and do the P90X Back and Biceps. So, we'll probably DRIVE to Turkey Mountain, run for an hour, and then take a little break and continue strength training later.

After not doing very well with food intake for 4 days, I am going to wait until....perhaps Friday to weigh myself again. I did very well yesterday with really only eating all natural food and almost no carbs. Today has been good as well, although I'm starving! Keep busy and eat small amounts every few hours; that's the secret! (And gum!) And I need to measure myself as well, so if I have time that day or Sunday. Hopefully results will be seen!

On The Road Again...

Sunday, September 13th - I did just a few core exercises and then went to a Philosophy lecture.

Monday, September 14th - I got some much needed rest and went into work a little later. That afternoon, I did Back & Biceps at the gym.

Tuesday, September 15th - Long run day = 100 minutes, almost 8.7 miles!!! This is the farthest I believe I've ever ran, but when I run Brookside to Cherry Street from my house, it doesn't seem too bad. I wasn't going very fast though, but I suppose long runs are supposed to be a little slower. My legs hurt very bad after this run; I sat and iced them since I didn't go into work until almost 1PM.

Wednesday, September 16th - I did some of the Plyometrics exercises while watching...SOME TV show. I should put in the actual DVD and do the full workout, but I suppose this is my way of 'multi-tasking' but unfortunately, it's not quite the same result. I only did this for about 20 minutes or so, enough to work up a sweat and feel my legs, but not enough to feel as though I accomplished the 'REAL' workout. In the afternoon, Shoulders & Arms was accomplished.

Thursday, September 17th - I got my Garmin 305 in the mail!!! I woke up at 5:15AM and went out South to run with Shelley. Well, it was pouring down rain...so...we went to IHOP instead. By 8AM it wasn't raining anymore and I wanted to try out this new device. So I just went for a little run around the neighborhood: 3.77 miles. It was kind of different, because I knew how fast I was running, how far, my heartrate and I didn't have to worry about getting lost or mileage or anything! The watch revealed ALL! After that, I had planned on going to Group Cycle at Gold's, so I went for a 45 minute calorie burning, butt busting workout with Angie. She helped me in the beginning, recognizing that I'd never been before, by helping me with my bike. She was SO full of energy and so positive, the time just flew by!

Friday, September 18th - I was supposed to get up and do Yoga in the morning...yeah...I slept in. After work, I went to Gold's and biked 10 miles and then did Yoga.

Saturday, September 20th - Race for the Cure!!! 7:45AM starting time, finished 3.1 mile, 5K at 29:55!!! At least, that's what I believe it said when I crossed. My goal was under 30, so I accomplished it! :-)
That night I did Chest & Back. I took a little break a little over half-way through it, because once I start getting really REALLY tired, my arms are just so shaky that I almost fall flat on my face while doing pushups. That doesn't accomplish much unfortunately!

Sunday, September 21st - I was supposed to get up this morning and bike to Turkey Mountain to do some running hill work. Yeah, I slept in, AGAIN. :-( I need to go to bed earlier and stop eating too late in the night. I believe I'll just do some Core work tonight and then turn in fairly early.

This week I plan on running Monday - 7.2 miles, Wednesday - Turkey Mountain Hill Work, Thursday - 5/6 faster miles with the girls, Friday - 110 minutes, long run. We MIGHT skip the run with the girls, but it was rained out last week, so I would prefer to go this week before Staff Meeting. I want to go to Cycling class again on Tuesday. Back & Biceps, Chest, Shoulders, & Triceps, and I need to do Legs & Back this week since I missed last week. One day of Yoga too, and we should be full! Oh, and I might swim tomorrow night after my meetings.

I did not do very well with eating last week. The past 3 days specifically, I haven't done well, and the scale did not go down, instead it went up a few pounds instead. Granted, your weight fluctuates, but I know better.

Guide-lines for this week:
1. No munching while TV watching.
2. No dipping things in Peanut Butter (even the HEALTHY kind!)
3. Buy enough salad and vegetables to keep in the house so I don't constantly have to run to the grocery store.
4. No more than 300 calories a day to protein bars a day.
5. At least one protein shake a day.
6. No eating out more than once a day, ANYTHING snack, etc.

I'm not there yet and I've seen changes, but I'm not there yet. I can't slack off now!

Another Week Gone By...

Saturday, September 5th - worked at the salon and then went to the gym. I basically did a little 'circuit' training workout going from the bike to the stairstepper to the other strange machines that make you feel like a little rat in a cage. :-) I basically was just curious because I had not tried most of these before and wanted to know what they did and what muscles they worked without being too high of impact on my knees. Then a little swimming and sauna time.

Sunday, September 6th - I didn't awaken early like I had wanted, so instead I ran after work. I was scheduled for a 90 minute run and I would LOVE to tell you how far I ran, but...I can't seem to find anything on the Net about it and so...I'll just have to tell you after I get the Garmin 305 watch that I ordered and should be here by Wednesday!!! :-) I went to Riverside and from 41st Street, I went north and then east on the pedestrian bridge and ran until it took me the time that I needed to go and/or to 4th & Peoria's park, I believe it's called Centennial park. This was not a fast run by any means, just slow, and listened to my Playaway.

Monday, September 7th - Labor Day! No work, so instead, I decided to try and take a class at Gold's. I attended the Pilates class, but unfortunately, I could have gotten a better 45 minute workout if I had just done it by myself. I picked up a few new moves, but nothing too exciting or heart thumping. After that, my friend Laura was there, so we biked 6 miles in about 30 minutes and just chatted away. I came back later and completed the P90X Chest & Back at the gym, which was fairly difficult.

Tuesday, September 8th - Oh yes. Hill work running day. I didn't wake up too early, so by the time I got to Turkey Mountain, it had already started to warm up a little. Although, one of the girls at work had kind of 'warned me' about going there alone. "Homeless people are there and you just shouldn't go by yourself." She freaked me out a little to carry Mace, but not enough to take another person with me. I parked around 71st and east of Peoria. I ran up the hill a little to get to the park and then began my downhill path. Downhill at first, I suppose to warm up. But I ran...probably 1 - 1.5 miles to and then turned around and ran back, up the hills. And then did it all again! So I probably ran about 5 miles altogether, but at least....7 - 10 hills, both big and small. Good times, was out there for about an hour and dripping sweat when I left.

Wednesday, September 9th - The hills took a lot out of me, so I just did about 40 minutes of Yoga and biked 7.5 miles today.

Thursday, September 10th - I was supposed to get up and run with Shelley this morning at 6AM, but I had kind of rough night before and it was raining and lightening early this morning. So I ran about 9AM, after it calmed down a little. 6 miles at Riverside at a fairly fast pace. I believe I completed it in right around an hour. I was pretty sore this day and limping around work a little.

Friday, September 11th - Legs & Back at the gym. This is the first time I've done this workout at the gym and the first time I've done it in a while, PERIOD. Because I've been running so much, my legs are constantly sore and I try to let them rest...a little. (? 24 hour periods) It was an alright workout, possibly would have been better at home, because even though I don't want to pay attention to the people at the gym, I am a woman working out in the guys section of the gym for this workout because that's where the pull-up machine is for the Back part of this workout. So...I can't hide as well.

Saturday, September 12th - My legs were very sore when I awoke this morning, but I had told some people from work that I would be at La Fortune at 6:30AM to run, so I had to go. I ended up being the only one there BUT...I went ahead and ran. (No reason to turn around then; that would just be dumb.) Of course, the first mile or two was pretty difficult. My legs and knees hurt from the previous day's workout and they were extremely tender. I decided that I wasn't going to run 6 miles, just one loop (3.1), but about mile 2.5, I decided I would turn around when I got to the end and run back .5 mile and then finish, equally about 4.1 miles. So not the best or fastest run, but I think that it definitely loosened up my legs enough to make it through the busy day at work. And then AFTER work, I headed back up the gym to work on Chest, Shoulders, and Triceps, P90X style. This workout has like 24 different movements, and combining push ups with shoulder exercises is always tough. But we did it, even with the dumbbells pushing me a little more than usual.

Sunday, September 13th - After working out twice yesterday, I went out with some friends and didn't get a lot of sleep. So...today was supposed to be a long run, but I had to be at work at 12PM and I didn't even roll out of bed until 11AM, so...that wasn't happening. I had a Philosophy lecture after work around 7:30PM, so still not enough time to run for 100 minutes and then have time to get ready. I was really tired though, from not sleeping a lot and from working, so a few core exercises at home was all I got accomplished today.

Monday I need to accomplish a 100 minute run, before work. After work, Back & Biceps.
Tuesday/Thursday, I would like to run with the girls out south for a 'fast' 5 or 6 mile trek. Whichever day not with them, 7 miles at Riverside, hopefully. I REALLY want to do the P90X Plyometric workout this week, Wednesday probably. I haven't done that in 3-4 weeks and it's a really great workout, done at home, with your 'garbage can' right beside you because you can't eat for AT LEAST AN HOUR before! :-) I want to double up on Wednesday and do Shoulders & Arms too at the gym. Friday morning, just some Yoga and then take Friday night off to go to a party with my girlfriend, and then Saturday morning is the Susan Komen's Race for the Cure 5K!!! I want to get under 30 minutes for this race and by then I should have my Garmin to help make sure I accomplish it!

Actually Going To A Gym Again!

Workout update:

Wednesday, September 3rd - went to Gold's Gym with a week pass that Christopher had given me. I had a goal to run 3 miles at a 9:00 mile pace. Well...that was pretty hard, and I finished 3 miles before...27:45 I think. So it was a little under. The 5K I have this month, I want to finish in under 30 minutes, so we'll see if I can do it. 27:45 plus another .2 miles should not be a problem, but I was running FAST. After that, a little swimming in the pool, about 150 meters. I'm not a very strong swimmer, so I'm trying to work my way up to over 400 meters, because that's how far you swim in a Sprint Triathlon.
That evening though, I couldn't walk. Up and down stairs, I couldn't bend my knees at all and I felt like a little old lady. That sucked.

Thursday, September 4th - went to Gold's again and biked for an hour this time, about 12.5 miles or so. Then I did some Back and Bicep exercises. I just kind of walked around and looked at the different machines and went by that. A little abs and was good to go.

Friday, September 5th - got up and ran 5 miles with the girls, averaging a 9:48 mile pace I believe. At work, I printed off the P90X workout sheets and I've decided to continue the exercises, but now just as the gym. I get really tired of doing nothing but staying at my house. If I workout at home, and get on the Net at home, and eat at home, then I NEVER go out and am never social. Which makes me depressed and I don't like that. So just going to the gym everyday and being around some other people and even just a little interaction should be a positive thing for me. Then possibly I won't mind when I'm at home and just reading or watching a little TV and chilling by myself. So, P90X is continuing, just at the gym instead. So I did Shoulders & Arms last night. And honestly...with dumbbells it was VERY hard. It was my first time using weights for the entire workout, and I probably was choosing weights that were too hard, because I couldn't get through the entire workout. I probably COULD have if I had taken a break and then gone back, but I was hungry and worn out and just tired. (Excuses, excuses. *tsk tsk*)

Today is Saturday and my knee is still hurting, so I believe tonight, I might do some low impact cardio for a while at Gold's and then go swimming and sit in the sauna.

Goals Accomplished For August

I had wanted to exercise 2000 minutes, but I believe I only made it to about 1700.

I wanted to run 73 miles and I believe I made it to at least 92 miles! So almost an extra 20 miles...more than a half marathon but not quite a full...yet!

It's pretty amazing to me, that my first race, my first 5K, 3.1 miles, was in May. And last Sunday, August 30th, I ran 7.7 miles. I ran for 86 minutes. OMG. When I first thought about running, 10 minutes sounded crazy. And now....I finished my first 5K and plus, my first 10K.

This month, I have the Susan Komen's Race for the Cure, Saturday September 19th. I believe that's the only race this month. I would like to complete it....in under 30 minutes. That's my goal. It's high, shaving off at least 2 minutes off my July time, but we should be able to make it. It's still 18 days away!

October brings the Zoo 10K, the Tulsa Run (15K) and then the Route 66 half marathon in November. We'll have to relook at the calendar from then on and keep choosing new and exciting races!

Since The Last Time...

Just keeps getting better and better! And a little farther, a little faster each time! :-) Almost everyone is noticing the difference in my appearance and I'm a little perturbed when I open my closet, because almost all of my clothes are getting too big. I don't want to go buy pants yet though, because if I get smaller, then I'll just have to purchase them again. And the tops, we're adding to that a few every couple of weeks. Updating and 'downsizing'. Good times, but shoe shopping doesn't change, thankfully!

Tuesday, August 25th - Just a little Yoga. I was pretty tired that day I believe.

Wednesday August 26th - CRAZY GIRL DAY! I ran 5 miles with the girls at 6AM and then went home, ate a light breakfast and then biked Turkey Mountain and Riverside...so I biked 15 miles. Add a 400M swim to that and we have ourselves a sprint triathalon! (Next year!)

Thursday, August 27th - P90X Shoulders & Arms

Friday, August 28th - A little yoga in the morning and then my first 10K race ever! I did the Heart & Sole Nordam race that evening. My PR for my 5K was 32:00, so I had hoped to finish....at least double that (my reasoning) = 64 minutes. And because it was farther, I figured I would run a little slower, so my goal was to finish under 66:30. I crossed the finish line at 1:03:?? I was pretty darn proud! I finished in less than the 5K doubled would have been, so that made me VERY happy! I was really tired when I finished though. The race was at 7:30PM and I ate around....5, thinking that was late/early enough. I probably just didn't eat enough at that point, just a little 100 calorie protein bar and a piece of fruit. Perhaps more substantial food next time if an evening race over 3.1 miles.

Saturday, August 29th - Just P90X Core, and unfortunately only 1/2 of it. I broke the black resistance band. Had to buy some 10 lb and 15 lb dumbbells.

Sunday, August 30th - Ran 7.7 miles in about 86 minutes that morning. This was not a pleasant run. I was still fairly sore from Friday evening, only having about 36 hours recovery and I don't think I was quite ready to run that far. Before that, my longest "EZ Slow Run" was at 65 minutes, so me trying to do almost 8 miles in my 11 minute pace....probably wasn't a super intelligent idea. I did finish though, with the help of my cinnamon disc around mile 5, without walking or taking a water break. It was extremely difficult and I was exhausted the rest of the day. I did a little Yoga later on just to help stretch out. I haven't been actually putting the P90X video in for the yoga anymore, just doing random poses and more stretching. It seems to be working though.

Monday, August 31st - Woke up a little late but did 1/2 of the Legs & Back workout. Once again....really?! What was I thinking? I just ran a 10K Race, then almost 8 miles...and now I'm going to strength train my legs....I need to plan this better. That evening, I joined in for some sand volleyball at one of the college campuses. I didn't realize how hard it was to run in sand! My forearms were pretty sore from hitting the ball as well, but it was fun!

Tuesday, September 1st - 5 Mile run this morning with Shelley and Amber Lynn. I told her that we should start off slow and we did. I think a little slow for her liking, but I was just worn out and tired from the previous craziness. We started about 10:30 - 11:12 - 10:15. But the last two miles we picked it up to about a 9:48, averaging about a 10:17 I think she said. Good times. Then a little Shoulders, Chest, Triceps (once again, about 1/2 the workout) finished it off.

I am really noticing the difference and the scale finally dipped back down under that **0 number again, which was exciting. I've gone under twice now...so hopefully we can consistently keep it from floating about that 0 again! Weigh in tomorrow! And Plyometrics, maybe. Hopefully, we should be able to handle it. Or perhaps, I can convince Christopher to go to the gym with me and we can go SWIMMING! I haven't done that in forever!

Haven't Been Writing...

But I've still been running! Let's see...catching up and looking at the calendar:

Saturday, August 15 - ran with water breaks at La Fortune, twice = 6.2 miles with the peeps from Ihloff. They run much faster than I do, and that was the farthest I had run so far....so the water breaks were extremely helpful.

Sunday, August 16 - Core. Good P90X workout.

Monday, August 17 - Ran 5 miles in the morning. Evening, I accomplished chest, Shoulders, & Triceps. Again P90X. This workout was not so hot because I had just done Chest & Back the 13th...so not a good choice with this one. I made it through the workout, but it was not pleasant.

Tuesday, August 18 - Easy 60 minute run at Riverside. I went across to the West side for the first time and it was quite enjoyable. I'm finding though, that I'm having to start to incoporate new or at least, different music, onto my IPOD and making my playlists longer.

Wednesday, August 19 - I watched a movie with my roommate and did some Yoga at the same time. Fairly easy day...

Thursday, August 20 - I joined Christopher (the guy I'm dating) at Gold's gym after work and we did Back together. I did a little of my ab workout on my own. It was different though, going to a gym, especially one that was co-ed. I haven't been to a gym in months and he asked me when we returned to the house if I was trying to 'prove something to him'. I told him that I probably was; I don't want to be viewed as weaker just because I'm a female. He said that usually when girls want to show off they put either their boobs/butt/both out and I told him that was probably the last thing that I would ever do. Working out around guys makes me extremely uncomfortable. Maybe that goes back to when I was married and my husband would tell me to stop chatting so much with my girlfriend and work harder and faster. Errr...

Friday, August 21 - Ran La Fortune twice again...so another 6.2 miles or so.

Saturday, August 22 - Ran 7 miles!!! First time ever...and actually, shh..it was probably 7.1 / 7.2 miles!

Sunday, August 23 - BREAK! Rest day that was much needed, I think. I was really worn out from the weekend with doing some Boudoir Sessions with hair, and running so much.

Monday, August 24 - Easy 65 minute run = about 6.2 miles or so in the morning. After hair class, I accomplished Chest & Back. Pushups, pullups, P90X it up!

So...I really HAVEN'T been slacking too much, just so tired and not spending as much time on here recording everything. I keep it all on my on-line calendar, but I need to write it down too and how everything goes.

Note about today - my legs were really REALLY sore. The first 2 miles were pretty tough, but after I stopped watching everyone and thinking so much, it became much easier. I drank chocolate soy protein powder mixed with soy milk (200 calories) in the morning. And then after my resistance workout, I started about 3:15, finished about 4:30PM. I had the 1/2 banana, soy milk and vanilla soy powder (160 calories) drank by 5:15PM. I was SO hungry though by 6:15 when I got dinner. We need to put those closer together, because I was CRAZY hungry. C-R-A-Z-Y!

I've been watching the scale still and no, not every single day is perfect. I had a little binge with the peanut butter last night and then yesterday afternoon in class, I was hungry and all they had to snack on (even after my Clif bar) was little chocolate candies. So...I'm good on chocolate and peanut butter for a minute. I definitely go through phases, but I wish they were farther apart and the scale would go down faster! :-(

6 Miles Accomplished!!!

So got back from vacation in Tenneessee Sunday afternoon. I worked a few hours at the salon and then went to church and I was just...T-I-R-E-D.

I started fresh Monday morning with a 5 mile run at Riverside I believe. It went quite well, not too warm, although I need to pick up the pace a little. If I usually run a 10, 10:15 mile, when I'm running longer runs I need to try to not slow down too much. I'm really thinking about purchasing a Garmin 305 just because of that fact. I have a clock on my IPOD, but I think I need something more accurate (or I just WANT it anyways!)

Tuesday morning was P90X Plyometrics, and the past couple times I don't think I've been 'Bringin It" as much as I could have, so I tried my best that day! I took one small break but finished it in about 65 minutes or so. My legs were a little sore the next day. I think with me increasing the time that I'm spending running that my cardio endurance is going up as well (duh) and so it's easier to get through the hour workout. That evening I did some Yoga, just to stretch out from the bus ride and relax a little from the more difficult cardio.

Wednesday morning I DID IT! I ran from my house to halfway between Brookside and Cherry Street and then back home! 6 miles! It wasn't too bad, although I definitely need to leave my house before 7:30AM, especially when it's going to be an hour run. My shirt was pretty soaked when I came in, and I wasn't super tired because of running, more just because I was so HOT. But it was kind of nice running along a popular street, because it didn't feel as difficult. I could look at people, cars, store fronts; it was interesting. I don't feel sexy while running, definitely not, but I suppose it helps me get over that, in a way and continue on my fitness journey.

Thursday morning I did Chest & Back along with Ab RipperX. I have still been slacking on the resistance training a little and with the Boudoir Sessions coming up next weekend, I'm trying to ensure I'm not missing those workouts. I'm still a little sore today, Friday afternoon.

This morning...what did I do? Oh, yes, 55 minute "easy run" at La Fortune, 5 miles. Tonight, I'm going to do Chest, Shoulders, & Triceps. Then tomorrow morning, some of us from work are going to go back to La Fortune and run it twice, which will be a NEW thing for me. I haven't made it 6.4 miles yet, but hopefully running with them and earlier in the morning, will be extremely helpful and motivating!

This morning, my roommate mentioned that I looked thinner and my first client as well. :-) Yay! Results are awesome; weigh - in again tomorrow. After coming back from Tenneessee and then spending the day on the boat with the boy, the diet wasn't perfect...but hopefully I've whipped it back into shape!

Vacation and Trying to Keep Up

Let's see....Wednesday morning, I ran with the girls from work. That evening, I went out with Chris and then just stayed up. I ran that morning, La Fortune, just 3.2 miles, but a fast run for me. I slept a little, worked, and then got on a bus that evening to head for Tenneessee. I didn't work out Friday, just because I was so tired from the bus ride and not having gotten a lot of sleep Wednesday night/Thursday morning. So I just kind of napped Friday afternoon and then attended my Uncle's wedding. I did get up Saturday morning though and went for another 3.2 run. I made it out a little late though, 10:30AM, and it was really too hot to be running by then. But it was accomplished and I felt better.
I should be back on the bus tomorrow around 12, so I'll probably try to do some resistance training and possibly some yoga, depending on how much time I have. Oh! I did do some 'different' type of working out though! I went out on the lake with my Uncle's new family and jet ski, tubed and swam a little. I know it's not what I usually do for workouts, but it was fun!
Now I have to work really hard because I'm supposed to go out on the boy's boat with him and his friends on Wednesday so....no slacking belly if I can help it! After that is 'sexy picture time' and we want to be VERY good for that!

The Girls Kicked My Butt!

Let's see...Monday I wore my new runnings shoes. Yeah...not quite as great of a run as usual. I only ran 4 miles in about 50 minutes. So between the shoes, and honestly, me just not feeling very well....it wasn't an amazing run. Then Tuesday morning was Legs, Back, & Abs with P90X and I think I skipped that last week, since I HAVE been running more. It was a pretty good workout and although I wasn't totally spent after it, I was pretty sore later on and then this morning as well.

But THIS morning, I woke up at 4:55AM and was on the road to meet Shelley and Jeanean for a run out South. Jeanean has run multiple marathons and Shelley is training for the half marathon in November too. Shelley has been running for like 6 years and has been my constant motivator and helper in losing weight and running. They continued to push me this morning though! At one point, in the beginning, we were running about a 9:27 minute mile. I usually run about 10:15, 10:30 and I think by the time we finished the 5 miles, it was on average like 10:00 mile. So definitely much faster and farther than I would have run a few months ago!

This afternoon, I need to do Shoulders & Arms and tomorrow is Plyometrics! The diet is going fairly well, I find myself sometimes hungrier throughout the day, although not as much in the morning after I run. I know I may need to start eating a little earlier after my run because I'm very hungry by lunchtime and sometimes I tend to overeat.

Goals For July...

So this month, my goal was to exercise 1950 minutes. I only made it to 1635, because I didn't do as much P90X this month. Last month, I did reach the 1900 minutes, but I hadn't met Chris yet, and so I know that I've been spending a lot of time with him. (Obviously, at least 250 minutes worth!)
Miles-wise, I wanted to run 38 miles, and I ran 51.3! So 13.3 past my goal! Yay!!! That's a half marathon right there! That made me feel pretty awesome. I think I really do prefer to run to doing the videos though, being outside, and I feel so accomplished when I finish. Although, I feel pretty accomplished and worn out when I finish the videos. I just didn't like doing the Kenpos, XStretch or the CardioX. I just felt like I got a better workout to go running, so that's how it started!

Today, I got up and it looked like it was going to rain, but I love running in the rain, so I headed out. I thought about La Fortune, but when it rains there, it gets really muddy, so I went to Riverside instead. The difference between the two: La Fortune is a lot hillier, Riverside is asphalt and flat unless you go across the river. Today I was scheduled to run 4.5 miles, I believe. But I actually ran about 5.5; I felt just really awesome. I drank last night for my roommate's birthday and got a little tipsy and said some not so amazingly nice things to Chris, just being a brat, so I think the running helped me kind of work it out and sort through some things. Good times good times.

Next week, I'm leaving for Tenneessee Thursday night. I will be back in town on Sunday, so I have to workout both Friday and Saturday there. I think I'll take the Plyometrics and Yoga DVDs with me, that would make the most sense, although I think we're staying in a hotel, so maybe the Kenpos one, just in case there's not a lot of room. We'll see!

Update & Total of 12 Pounds Gone!

Since Saturday....

Sunday 4 miles in the morning. Good run, good times.
Monday, Plyometrics, good workout, sweat a lot, but it's always gettin easier.
Tuesday, 44 minute run, about 4 miles.
Wednesday, slept in a LOT, bought running shoes for about $200 (gift card was used to help), Chest, Shoulders, & Triceps was accomplished.
Thursday, 5 miles down AGAIN!

I weighed myself again, and since the beginning of the month, I've lost 7 pounds! :-) I haven't seen the number on the scale for a long time and this is awesome how great I feel. My confidence in a lot of areas is coming back and I'm definitely not as self conscious when I look in the mirror. The best thing though? I can feel how much stronger my body is, from my quads to my hamstrings, my stomach, my biceps, my back, my shoulders, it's pretty AWESOME!

So thanks to the mean boy that told me I was the biggest girl he'd ever dated...I'm not dating you anymore and you motivated me enough to get the real me back!

Pushing The Limits!

Let's see, Wednesday morning I did bike Turkey Mountain! Yay, 15 miles! Although I have to admit, I went the 'easier' route. By going from my house all the way to 71st and Peoria and THEN going North, I don't have 2 huge hills to bike up. The first time I tried biking Turkey Mountain, I went the really difficult way and had to push my bike up twice. I felt like a TOTAL loser, but this time, I did the long slow climb hill at the beginning and then SOARED down the 2 really steep ones!

I also figured out that even with biking that far and spending 90 minutes out there...that it just doesn't burn a whole lot of calories. That's about 10-11mph, and honestly only about 26 calories burned per mile. So even with doing 15 miles, it's ONLY 390 calories! I could bike 15 miles and be out for 90 minutes, or just go run/walk 4 miles in approximately 45-60 minutes. Granted, biking is much easier for some people because they have issues with their knees and such, and I know that if I was to pick up the pace and bike faster, it would burn a little bit more...but still...calorie burning = running for me.

So onto the NEXT thing...
I surpassed my 3.2 or 38 minutes running! Thursday morning, I planned on running 4 miles on Riverside. So I go out and start at 41st and know that I have to run to 21st and turn around = 4 miles. Well, I couldn't figure out where the street sign for 21st Street was, so I kept running until I saw a sign, but by then it was 17th Street! So I just continued, not really sure how far I was going, but I kept looking at my IPOD clock and it was going on almost 50 minutes. I was extremely tired and warm (stupid me decided to go run at 9:30AM instead of earlier when it was cooler!). But I finished and then when I got home, I got onto www.mapmyrun.com and pulled up what I had just did, and I had run 4.98 miles! Super SUPER excited! Whooo!

Although, then I didn't work out that night after working at the salon, plus, I hung out with the guy. And because he kept me up, I didn't get up Friday morning either, and then felt really tired after work. So I ate, napped, and ended up going running with the boy at midnight, just like 2 or 3 miles total with warmup. Good times though! Tonight is back to P90X and building some 'muscle' - Back & Biceps!

How Many Pushups...?!

Chest and back was today. Well, techinically it was last week, but I just now got to it today. 227 pushups, granted, they were 'girly' (on the knees) but still. I think next time, I'll do them regularly. I've changed doing the pullups/chinups with the bands to doing them with the chair. So now....I think I'm ready to do the real pushups now. It won't be until next week or the week after until I do that routine again though.

Tonight after work....I just really needed to exercise. I had gone out for breakfast and eaten a little bit much and then at work, it was potluck day, which never means 'healthy' food. I did fairly well, but there was some queso and I did have a brownie and 2 little peanut butter chocolate chip cookies though. So a few miles burned a few hundred calories and that made me feel better.

Until getting hungry at almost 11PM. *sigh* Snacking on roasted & salted green peas and some rice crackers I suppose isn't THAT bad, but still. Could have been better.

Tomorrow moring, I'm hoping to get up and go bike Turkey Mountain. That's the goal, so I should probably be going to bed....now.

Mohawk 5000 Update!!!

I ran this last Friday night and it said often times you can get your personal best because it's flat and fast. :-)

32:00 minutes!!!!

Tired Again

Well well well. This morning accomplished La Fortune (3.2) miles before 8AM. Yesterday as well. I was supposed to weight train yesterday but after work and church and a meeting and running....I was tired.
Today, was going to instead. After working a full day, meeting until 9PM, yes, tired again.
I still feel good and my arms actually have been a little sore, just from being a stylist. But I said that I was going to do P90X and even it ends up taking me longer than 12 weeks, it's probably the best thing that I could have EVER done.
Tomorrow I don't work until 3PM so I need to do Chest & Back (from last week) and possibly Plyometrics but I don't know if I will have enough energy. The guide says to only add more cardio if you have extra energy but between being really busy at work, meeting a new person (gotta HATE that!), meetings, and trying to run at least 3 times a week....yeah, I'm tired. The sad part is, excluding the man, there is very little social time and I don't even see him that often!

Measurements

Today was not any specific day, but about 30 days since I last took measurements. I lost 1" in my chest, 1/2" in my waist, but I think I GAINED 1/2" in my hips (?), unless I measured a different spot last time. That doesn't make sense to me, since my clothes aren't tighter. My forearms lost .3" on both and my biceps lost from .2-.5" and then thighs lost from .5" to 1" (I measure 2 different spots). And calves, I noticed the first time I measured that my left was almost a full 1" bigger than my right. But today, I had gained .5" on my right and lost .25" on my left, so getting more symmetrical! I didn't weigh myself, because that's a first thing in the morning thing...so tomorrow!

Phase 3 & Some Results FINALLY!

Today was the 2nd day of Phase 3, first time around. I stepped on the scale today because I told myself that I'm going to start weighing myself twice a week, that way I have to answer a little bit more. So Mondays and Thursdays are THE days. I weighed last Thursday....at ***.* and BW of **.*. :=) Can't let you know TOO much!

But weighed today after really working hard all weekend and pushing it, LOST 3.4 pounds!!! Granted, they'd still better be gone on Thursday, although...I am having my birthday dinner and drinks tomorrow night. And I'm probably going to...drink a lot. Mexican and margaritas, they're kind of high in calories. But I'm doing Plyo in the morning and ran today and about to go do Shoulders & Arms, and then Wednesday - run, bike and possibly Kenpos X.

Oh, the Body Fat drop was 1.3% too. :-) Hopefully it's even better Thursday!

One of my clients came in yesterday and he hadn't seen me....for 7 weeks; he waited a little long in my opinion. But he told me that he hardly recognized me (my hair was down and straight too...I think that was part of it)! But that made me feel really awesome, and I really am noticing results, it only took 2 months of doing this and really only about a month of trying to eat really well. Just imagine what would have happened if I had known about the nutrition plan to begin with?! Craziness.

When It Rains, It POURS

This week has been super busy and a little crazy too.

Tuesday night, I decided I was going to bike up to the Call Center the next morning to pick up my pay check stubs and drop off some postcards. Well, I didn't get my butt out of bed quite as early as I wanted, but at 9:30, I was determined to set off for my adventure, even though the sky looked a little questionable. Ha!!! Not even 2 miles away from my house, the sky literally just opens up. I looked like I had jumped into a swimming pool by the time I got up to the square. It usually takes me about...20 minutes or so to bike it, and I had to be a little more careful because the roads were slick. So then of course, on the way back, it's still pouring, even though I waited inside for a while to see if it would let up. Nope, of course not! When does it stop? About 10 minutes after I get home! Ahhhh!!!

Round two. Thursday morning, I'm going for a run, and I'm going to La Fortune. I overslept a little again and am still determined to go. I have to be at work at 12PM and I know that it is still much too hot at night to run even when it 'cools' down. I arrive and just barely started walking for warmup and I feel a couple drops. By the time I get settled in pace, it's pouring.

But! I only passed 1 other person that morning, which is a RECORD for La Fortune, it's usually packed. And...it felt SO EASY to run the 3.2 miles.

I was a little concerned about my IPod though. Wednesday, I had my Nano on my arm through the rain on the bike, and it had a blank screen until I let it dry out. So I purposely used my shuffle Thursday, just in case....and it was fine.

This morning, another 3.2 miles down. Tonight, need to do Core, and it's the END of the 2ND recovery week! 4 more weeks for P90X! Bring it!

That Girl...

Shelley at work is really amazing. She's my constant motivator. :-) Love her!

Today, got up around 9 and it was about 75 out, so I went for around a 2.2 mile run. The little park next to my house isn't a full mile but I know from the walk from my house, there around twice and back, it's 2 miles. I like to run La Fortune too, but I'm lazy and don't want to have to drive. *rolls eyes* I'd rather just walk to my running place!

Tonight after work was Core, which I didn't really want to do. I have to say that I've grown a little tired of constantly looking at the TV and working out, although I KNOW that it's a GREAT workout. I'm kind of aching to be back in the gym again. Although I can do this at my house, at any time, and best of all, I can wear ANYTHING or less and not feel uncomfortable. Not quite the same, especially at a co-ed gym. Tomorrow...bicycle ride and some yoga!

And Keep On Rolling....

So Saturday was the race. Sunday, my family was still here from visiting and after I did their hair, honestly, I was just exhausted. I had some lunch and then just passed out in bed until 11PM. So...now workout on Sunday. Monday morning, because I took a 'nap' until 11PM, I couldn't get back to sleep until almost 3AM, so I didn't get up and go for a bike ride like I wanted.

After work I had a meeting and had a light salad there and honestly, I really did NOT want to work out, at all. But my new thing is, if I'm 'out' of calories, exercise or go to sleep. So I can eat or just forget about it. So...exercise I did! P90X Back & Biceps and man, do I feel awesome! This week is Recovery Week, although I'm still going to be running so lots of stretching and then onto the last 4 weeks of this program. YaY!

My little sister did make a comment to me when she saw me though. She mentioned that she had gained like 7 pounds since the summer had started just because it was so hot up home that she didn't want to do anything. But she asked me if I had lost weight, because I looked..."toned up"? I haven't really lost a lot, just like 4 or 5 pounds, but I do have more defintion, upper body wise, which makes me feel awesome that she said that! Gotta love the small comments!