Holy Buckets…I'm Back!!! Updates GALORE!!

I think my life has finally settled down enough to allow me to start blogging again.

Since my last post I had started looking for a job, living pay check to pay check, and real life decided to kick me in the a$$ with my student loan bills!  I probably put on close to 15lbs of "who cares" weight and I had no motivation to workout besides when I taught cycling 5x a week.  I felt overwhelmed, stressed out, and disappointed in myself.

Needless to say the last half of 2013 was a struggle, but 2014 turned around for me!  At the very beginning of the year I was offered a job which helped with a lot of my stress.  I had also decided in 2014 that I wanted to conquer some goals.  I wanted to tackle things I had never tried before.  I was sick of being "down."

In February one such goal kind of threw itself into my lap.  I ran into someone at a bar in town who also happened to be a fitness competition coach.  Well I was probably over revealing because I had a few too many shots and talked to him about how I'd been wanting to do a competition for years, but just didn't know how to start, what to do, how it all worked, etc.

Well about a week later I ended up meeting with him to go over prep and how contests work.  I had a contest already picked out- NPC Duel of Champions here in Omaha on June 7th, 2014 (the day after my birthday).  I had always thought I would do a bikini competition, but he thought I'd do better in a figure since I am built broader.  We took some measurements and body fat percentage.  I started at 138lbs and a little over 24% body fat.  I check in with him every two weeks for measurements.  After a month I am down to 17.95% body fat and 130lbs.  This last time I went in I had my shoes, so I also got to practice posing for the first time.  Let me tell you it looks way easier than it actually is.  I've been practicing while sitting at work or driving in the car.  I want to do as well as I possibly can.

My shoes!

That is why I have been quite diligent with my prep I figure if I'm in this and I'm going to walk on stage in 13 weeks (OMG!!) why not go for it?  And so far I am loving it.  It has given me something to work for.  I am motivated again.  Not only are my clothes fitting again (which is always nice), but I feel better and I have more energy because I'm no longer eating whatever crap.

I know some people will think I'm crazy for doing it or wonder why.  The reason I'm doing this and have wanted to is to say I did it.  The dedication and will power it takes to compete is amazing to me and I want to prove to myself I have that same dedication and will power!  I have the most amazing support group around me to push me through this.  When I told a small group of my friends they didn't judge and immediately asked if they could come cheer me on when I walk on stage.

My awesome cheerleaders after one of my races- they were the loudest ones!

The biggest issue that has popped up so far is gum.  I started chewing gum to crave my sweet tooth.  Well apparently one day I chewed too many pieces of gum (yes, it's possible).  In case you didn't know there is an ingredient in sugar free gum called Xylitol, I believe.  Well it can't really be digested by your stomach and so the bacteria in your stomach feeds on it which can cause gas in your stomach.  That gas can then turn into massive, horrible stomach cramps.  It was awful- it didn't help to lay down, it didn't help to stand up.  Nothing made it feel better.  Well, I learned my lesson and backed WAY WAY off my gum chewing habits.  

Well, I think that is enough updating for now.  Watch out for my next post!  I'm going to review a brand new product (at least to me) and a couple of possible giveaways coming your way!!!

I'll leave you with this recent quote from Academy Award winner, Lupita Nyong'o.  I think it's quite fitting, don't you?

The Positives in Failures

Another post/rant about why I LOVE Crossfit.  I know you probably see these all over the place and I know I've written about it, but hey maybe there's something to this..maybe Crossfit is really THAT great! 

The reason I started crossfit (deep down the REAL, god honest reason):
I wanted to LOOK HOT.  Let's be honest everyone wants to look good.  People want to be that person that the crowd turns around and takes a double take because they can't believe their eyes.  We're all a little vain..and there's nothing wrong with this.  When I originally started crossfit, I wanted to look like Ms. Justine Munroe (pictured- found on RxMuscle.com).

I wanted to compete in a competition because I wanted those abs.  I never have had abs, so I figured I'd be happy if I could just get those cuts.  Well I found out quickly that my priorities changed....

 

What I got from crossfit (it wasn't the hot bod):  Okay, yes my muscles have grown and I am a little more toned, but not in any extreme fashion.  What I got from crossfit was something totally different:

- I became stronger

- I became more flexible

- I feel stronger, more independent

- I feel more confident in my own skin

- I feel more confident on my views

- I am more determined and have a stronger will power

- I EMBRACE THE SUCK

Why I stay, even though I fail: People have asked me why I do crossfit- I'm not as strong (or will ever be) as many of the elite.  I have many goats (weaknesses) and am still working on...well, everything (pull-ups, lifts, gymnastics, etc.).  My response/defense is that I wasn't ever going to win a marathon, not even close, but I still ran because why let failure stop you?

If we avoided things we weren't good at or failed at; how would we grow?  How would we find out what we're good at?  That's why I love crossfit.  Many of the people at my box will never compete in The Games or even be considered a "contender."  I'm okay with that because even though we fail at one point or another, we're always there for each other!!

Even though I may not complete a WOD, I can tell I'm progressing. I didn't finish Monday's WOD:
3 Rounds-
10 Pullups
30 Double Unders.

At first, I was pissed.  I wanted to walk away and mope, but then I had to think of something to take away.  What did I decide to take away??  It was my first WOD EVER I did unassisted pull-ups.  I always had to use some sort of band, even a really really thin one.   But I did this one all on my own and I was pretty damn proud of myself!

 

The final point and reason behind my post: The Open



The Crossfit Open is 1 WOD a week from March 5-April 7.  You can try each WOD as many times that week, as you would like.  Just make sure your score is in by that Sunday.  Nothing can be scaled, so if you can't lift a weight; you just keep trying and trying. 



I was terrified last week.

WOD Week 1:
17min AMRAP
40 Burpees
30 Snatches (45#)
30 Burpees
30 Snatches (75#)
20 Burpees
30 Snatches (100#)
10 Burpees
As Many Snatches at 120# for remainder of time

I had only ever snatched 73# and it was THAT Thursday!  How in the world was I going to do 75# two days later?  Well, I didn't but it was a great learning experience and I couldn't be happier that I did it.  Did I do well..hell no, but my friends from my box were still cheering me on.  How could you want to be a part of that community?
 

Tomorrow I'll be trying Week 2 WOD:
 

10min AMRAP:

5 Shoulder to Overhead (75#)--thank god I just got 100# on my split jerk!

10 Deadlifts (same weight)

15 Box Jumps (20in)
 

 

I know it doesn't look difficult, but I think my biggest struggle will be fatigue.  It's easy to get cocky and think I'll knock this out, but going too quick on deadlifts could ruin my box jumps.  I guess only time will tell...literally.

Suzie Homemaker Alert!!

This crazy thing has been happening this past weekend.  I've been spending more time in the kitchen (insert sexist joke here).  I've decided that I want to save WAY more money, so that I can possibly move away from Omaha after I get my degree.  I noticed I tend to spend the most amount of wasted money on food from Panera or Blue Planet Natural Grill (a local restaurant that only makes food from fresh ingredients and doesn't fry anything!).  

They are both AMAZE-BALLS, but let's face it..they're not saving me anything.  I started searching on Pinterest and the internet for healthy, easy-to-make meals for myself.  Here's what I've come up with so far:

Grain Free Tortillas and Tacos
 

Makes 1 large tortilla or 2 small

Tortilla:

2 tbsp almond flour

1/2 tbsp water

1 egg

Mix together and cook on med heat skillet.  Flip when golden brown (about 3min). Cook for another 2-3min

Top with choice of meat, veggies, and other taco toppers.  In this picture I have ground turkey, lettuce, and organic salsa

Naked Turkey Burgers (from Muscle and Fitness Hers)

Makes 7 small turkey burgers

1lb ground turkey
1egg white
1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 garlic powder
1/4 poultry seasoning
2tsp Dijon mustard
(I also added 1/4 cup bread crumbs)

Combine all ingredients and divide into patties
Cook on skillet or grill! (It was too cold to fire up the grill so I opted for the skillet)

Sweet Potato Chips

1 sweet potato
1tsp olive oil

Cut thin with mandolin (I LOVE MY MANDOLIN!)
Toss with olive oil and spread on cooking sheet (make sure they don't overlap)
Cook at 400 for 25-30min

Also, I made the turkey burgers and sweet potato chips on the same day, so I decided to top the burgers with some chips.  My only remark--WHY DID I NOT THINK OF THIS BEFORE?!?

Avocado, Egg, and Bacon Bake (from Pinterest- not sure who made it)

It's pretty simple:
Cut avocado, take out pit and about 3/4 of the insides and save for meals
Put in cooking pan WITH LIPS!! (this is so the avocado doesn't roll over and dump out the egg). 
CAREFULLY pour egg in each side of the avocado.
Sprinkle on top UNCOOKED bacon
Bake at 425 for at least 15min (more if you like your egg cooked well- like me)

...Oh and for anyone that thinks eating little to nothing is the way to go..well here's my answer..

YEAH..I eat a lot of food!!

Avocado on Avocado on Avocado **RECIPE**

Lately I've been having an avocado obsession, so here's a couple of recipes I came up with!!

Avocado and Kale Recipe:
Ingredients:
3 avocados (pit scooped out)
3 lemons, peeled (could use limes or mix them)
2 bags of Kale

1. pit and peel both the avocados and citrus and place in blender
2. mix to consistency you like (I like mine smooth)
3. massage avocado/citrus mixture onto kale leaves
4. ENJOY!

Here's my recipe from the Super Bowl.  My friend, Twyla, has asked me to bring a healthier, gluten free dip that she could enjoy without feeling guilty.

Avocado and Greek Yogurt Dip:
Ingredients:
3 avocados
1 lemon
1 lime
Organic salsa
2 large cans of chicken (in water, 98% fat free)
1 cup plain greek yogurt
spices you want

Layer 1:
Mix spices with greek yogurt, like chili powder or cayenne pepper, cilantro, etc.
Spread into bottom of dish

Layer 2:
Blend pitted avocados and peeled lemon and lime in a blender (leave some chunks)
Add in spices, like cayenne pepper or chili powder
Spread on top of Layer 1

Layer 3:
Open chicken and drain the water
Spread on top of Avocado layer

Layer 4:
Top it all off with that salsa!! and ENJOY


Today's Workout:
*45min of Spin

*18:31 of Lifting:
10 Pushups
15 Power Clean and Press (65#)
25 Bench Jumps
25 Overhand Inverted Row
25 Thrusters (20#)
25 Overhand Inverted Row
25 Bench Jumps
15 Power Clean and Press (65#)
10 Pushups

PS- HAPPY NATIONAL PANCAKE DAY!!  Have you had your pancakes today??  I didn't..would anyone be willing to share their favorite clean pancake recipe?!

Breaking Up Is Hard To Do...

I've been dealing with some issues in my own head this past few weeks I've been training for my half marathon.  I've been afraid to admit them because I'm supposed to be the girl that lives and breathes marathons...I think I'm no longer having fun running.

Thank god my sister-in-law (fellow marathoner and best friend) texted me this morning.  She made me feel less guilty which took a huge weight off my shoulders.  She texted me, "I don't think I like running anymore."  I smiled when I read it, not because she was disappointed because maybe I wasn't crazy or alone in thinking running may no longer be my "thing."

In case you don't know already in the past year I've completed multi-sport endurance races, like a Tri.  Also, in July I started crossfit and in December I hit my one year mark for teaching spin and now teach 4x a week.  I just can't find the same joy I used to find in running that I now find in these other ventures.

I'm a little sad/mad/disappointed to see this passion of mine be put on the back burner, but for my sanity I think it will have to sit there..at least for the time being.

This is me post-Chicago Marathon.  I was crazy happy and flying in cloud 9!

Have you tried anything new? How do you feel about running?

8-Week Nutrition Challenge!

My CrossFit box is having a nutrition challenge for the next 8 weeks and I was crazy enough to join!!  It was a $50 buy-in, but I have an opportunity to win it all back!!  Here's the rules, as written by one of the coaches:

Okay, if you're not as skilled in reading messy handwriting (I've had life-long practice with my dad's atrocious writing..you'd think he was a doctor); I'll explain here:

1. It's a combination of zone and paleo (don't worry I'm not done explaining).
2. For the paleo aspect: 
1. Eat all meats, nuts (NO peanuts are not nuts), seeds, and veggies
2. Some fruit is allowed (eat it with breakfast or post workout; try and avoid it later at night, unless you workout at night).
3. Little starch (a little is allowed around workouts and morning)
4. NO SUGAR! (fake sugars are included in this, so dump that crap down the drain!)
5. Keep alcohol VERY limited
3. For the zone aspect: 
1. He took our measurements (weight, body fat %, butt, waist, and arm)
2. Based off all these he gave us our "blocks" (instead of using calories, zone uses blocks, so that you eat more balanced- carbs, fats, and protein)
3. I was given 12 blocks a day 
4. We have to break that into 5 meals a day, so I chose: 3 2 3 1 3
1. This means that at a given meal I will eat that many "blocks" of EACH macro- carb, fat, protein
5. Then we went over what constitutes as a "block"
1. In general, most lean meats are 1oz=1block
2. Eggs: 1egg=1block
3. It varies with veggies and fruits, but if you google "zone diet" there's really good documents that have how much amount of food= a block
4. Every night we have to fill out our charts that give us points, or take away, for everything we've ingested and our workouts.
5. We are also suggested to start taking fish oil (or eat fish) and multivitamins
1. I choose a fish oil (I HATE fish) and it has a special coating, so it doesn't taste funky
2. I have a multivitamin from HyVee based on GNC's women's mega (for WAY cheaper)
6. We also are told to pick 3 meals a week and not worry about zone or paleo.  This does NOT mean to let loose and go crazy; still try and stay healthy, but don't get caught up on staying within the exact blocks.

Okay, so that was a pretty simplified explanation, so if you have any questions: comment below or ask me on my Facebook or Twitter!  Of course, I will still be eating my ENERGYBits before workouts because they fit within my guidelines and they've improved my performance SOOO much!!

Now, why am I doing this?!  Well, recently at CrossFit we've been talking about our weaknesses and nutrition is definitely one of them!  I mean I eat pretty healthy, but I could do so much better!!  Also, it really hit me when one of the girls, that I usually try and keep up with during workouts, said, "I just want to do it to show off all the hard work I put in here."  It's SOOO true; I work my ass off and only eat "pretty" healthy?!  Does that make sense..yeah doesn't to me either!  My sister-in-law tells her friends/coworkers that I'm a "shit, brick house."  Well, I'm pretty small and built, but I'd like anyone on the street who saw me to say that about me!

Also, I decided it was time to make a change and hold myself accountable after the coach took our measurements...yikes!  Now they're not horrible, but NO WHERE near where I would like them.  Here goes..don't judge:

1. Weight: 125#
2. Body Fat %: 22.5%
3. Waist: 29.5"
4. Butt: 35.5"
5. Arm: 10.5"

I'd like my BF% in the teens (not low teens though) and my waist closer to 27-26."

I'll leave you with a picture from my breakfast this AM: 1/4 cantaloupe, 3/4 cup egg whites, and 2.25 cup kale sauteed in olive oil.

Do you follow any special diets?  If so, which one?  

Exciting News!!!!

 



In case you didn't read the title, I have some super awesome news!!  I was picked to be a Brand Ambassador for EnergyBits!!  In case you missed my review when I first tried them out; here it is again. 

 

I wanted to add a little bit more about the company and how it got started.  The founder, Catharine, started this company after her sister was diagnosed with breast cancer four years ago.  Her Oncologist told her to try adding more alkaline to her diet.  Catharine started reading more about green nutrition, gave up her career, studied and taught nutrition, and then launched this wonderful company!  This was another reason I really wanted to be a part of this company, in some way at least.  If you don't know me or my family I'll give you a quick synapses.  My great-grandmother on my mother's side died from breast cancer and my grandmother on my father's side was diagnosed with breast cancer almost two years ago and survived!  I also have numerous other types of cancers floating around my gene pool along with countless other diseases and illnesses.  I have always understood that nutrtion IS your health care, if you don't eat right and put the right things into your body; you're asking for trouble.  Which is why I LOVE ENERGYBits; I don't have to worry about what chemical is going into my body and how it will effect me not just immediately, but 10-15 years down the road.   If my review hasn't persuaded you to switch to "green energy," hopefully that story will :) 

 

Now what does it mean to be a Brand Ambassador?  Well, it means I get to spread the word to everyone about EnergyBits and how much it has helped my performance!  I will get to give (thanks to EnergyBits) discounts and giveaways to followers, so if you haven't yet make sure you "Like" and Follow EnergyBits on Facebook and Twitter.  Also, "Like" my page, The Young The Fit and Follow me on Twitter for updates on these discounts and giveaways :)

 

Also, as a Brand Ambassador I'd like to start doing a weekly or monthly nutrition or fitness blog post.  What do you think?  If so, please comment on what you'd like answered or discussed!

Stay tuned for how I will be incorporating EnergyBits into my everyday life and my training!! 

 

 



 



ENERGYBits Review

How many of you take a pre-workout booster?  How many of you pop dozens of supplements everyday? How many of you drink endless amounts of coffee a day?  Well, I DO (I did that is).  I recently got to sample the energy booster, ENERGYBits.  

They are these little tablets that are made from 100% organic spirulina algae.  Algae is NOT a supplement, it is a food!  Algae is actually a crop, grown!!  I was sold once I read about just that.  Supplements are made in labs.  Chemists mix all different sorts of things and put it in a gel casing, but what are they really going to do to your body?  I’d much rather put a crop into my body any day.  

MY EXPERIENCE:

I had just spent ALL DAY in classes or studying for other classes and was feeling REALLY sluggish.  I hadn’t gotten a work out in yet and almost didn’t because I was dragging during my night class.  I knew I just needed to kick my ass into gear and go to the gym for a late night workout.  After my class I shuffled back into my car and popped open my container of ENERGYBits.  I swallowed all 30 tablets.

As I was walking up the hill towards my college’s gym, I noticed a surge of energy.  By the time I made it to the free weight area that I wanted to do my workout in; I WAS PUMPED.  I wasn’t jittery though, like I usually get after taking pre-workout boosters.  To say I “owned” or “powered” through that workout would be an understatement.  I felt AMAZING!  Here’s the workout I completed (part of which is from The Blonde Ponytail’s blog GNC Gonna Make You Sweat).  

WORKOUT #1:

Reverse Lunges with Front Squat Bar Placement

4 rounds of 5x each leg for Maximum Weight

2min break

WORKOUT #2: Blonde Ponytail Blog

5 Rounds of:

30 secs Med Ball Thruster

30 secs jump rope

30 secs Med Ball Push-ups

30 secs jump rope

30 secs Wood Chop (Right)

30 secs jump rope

30 secs Wood Chop (Left)

30 secs jump rope

REST 1MIN

2min break 

WORKOUT #3:

4RDS- 400m Row, Rest 1min in between each round (3% resistance)

4RDS- 100m Row, Rest 1min in between each round (3% resistance)

COOL DOWN- 800m Row (NO resistance)

Not only was I able to own that workout, but then afterwards the trainer on the floor came up to me and gave me one of the BEST compliments I have ever received.  One he told me I was a beast and second he told me that he wished more of his clients would push to my work ethic.  He said that if his clients would work that hard, they would ALWAYS see the results.  My response: “my theory is that if I’m going to be here, I might as well make it worth it!”

Now what you may be wondering is if I will be buying it?  The answer is YES, after I get payed, of course :)

They are perfect if you compete in sports or anything like that because most supplements have banned substances, but ENERGYBits do not because algae is the ONLY ingredient..how awesome?!

There are also other Bits to support your needs:

RecoveryBits

VitalityBits

SkinnyBits

I chose ENERGYBits because they are designed for athletes and active lifestyles and it was PERFECT, but don’t just take my word for it though; check it out!!  

Here’s their website: http://www.energybits.com/

Twitter: @EnergyBits

Facebook: EnergyBits Facebook

Progress

I've been doing CrossFit for close to two months now and I'm finally getting my eating down.  I've always known that your "diet" is 80% of your results, but just because you know something doesn't mean you follow it.  Am I right or what?  I wanted to share some pictures because I haven't really been seeing a difference in myself.  I also decided to take my measurements recently and I am:

1. Up 2lbs
2. Down 3% in Body Fat
3. My muscles (biceps, legs, and butt) have all grown at least .5 an inch
4. My chest has gone down an inch (not sure how that was possible)
5. I PR'd in a recent 5K!!

I feel stronger and more confident than ever!!  To prove that sometimes all that matters is a mental change; here are some before and currents.  Why don't I say after?  I always consider myself and under construction and still working to be better than before!  Stole this idea as well from Rachelle, of Bare-To-Bake.  Also, I'm using these pictures to show why nutrition is SO important when it comes to seeing results!  I have no idea where I would be today if I would have nailed nutrition down much sooner, but oh well you can't dwell on the past.  I only learn and move forward :)

This was me two years ago when I first started really getting into fitness after quitting college soccer and started training for my first half marathon.

These were both taken about two weeks ago.  About a month into finally nailing down my nutrition!

Also, what has helped me change my physique and muscle tone has been CrossFit!  My muscles are growing, I notice my biceps and legs are harder, and I'm so much stronger already!!

A picture during a Sunday WOD...WARM-UP= technique practice!!

Do you see those shoulders!!  I've never had that definition before.  Plus, I've never felt confident rocking my 80s inspired PINK top, but now I LOVE it and how it makes my muscles look. :)

Flashdance anyone??

I will leave you with a picture of my "dream board."  It has sayings and pictures to motivate me.  It also has a list/pictures of my long and short term goals, along with steps I have to get to every day in order to complete my goals!

Do you use a dream board??  Have you reached any of your goals??

Put your excuses away and BE SMART!

This is for all my runners, walkers, and bikers out there.  I was pondering while running, which rarely happens, that people don't think when they are exercising outside.  We trust other's WAY too much.  When I see people by themselves they're at night or with headphones stuck in their ears.  Here's my tips I've learned (the hard way) to be safe while running.

1. TURN OFF THE MUSIC!  Yes, I know people say their only motivation to get out the door is turning on their MP3 player or other music device.  Well guess what...get used to being bored or find another way to get you motivated (the fresh air, the endorphins, or fitting into your skinny jeans).  If you're on a trail did you know that some bikers can get up to 50mph??  If your headphones are in how can you get out of their way in time??  There's been DEATHS in my town and in others because runners fail to hear the cyclists warning, "ON YOUR LEFT."  You need to be aware of your surroundings!  No, it's not okay to wear one headphone...get rid of the music PERIOD!  It's not hard to run or bike with no music.  Like I said in my previous post..fighting cancer is hard, losing a child is hard...no music IS.NOT.HARD!

2. BRING YOUR PHONE.  If anything happens and you're not near somewhere you can borrow a phone..you're screwed (sorry, no other way to put it).  I've learned this the VERY HARD way.  There has been SOO many times that I have gone out when it is too hot and run.  I've gotten too far away from home or my car and I've been stuck.  I'm dehydrated with no access to water or a car.  There's been a couple times I've had people pull over their cars and ask if I need a ride home..that's how bad I looked.  I've also been running when it's too icy.  Most normal people avoid the icy trails and sidewalks, but not me.  I've fallen, luckily on my backside, too many times to count, but what would you do if you fell on your elbow and didn't have a phone to call someone?  I know it's annoying to carry around a phone, but you'll regret it the day you don't and you need it..I've been there and IT BLOWS.

3. LISTEN!  Like I said be aware of your surroundings.  Not only your physical, but also to what you can hear.  After 4 years of training for endurance events, I've gotten pretty decent at listening to everything that's around me.  People call me jumpy, but at least I can hear the bunny or leaf jump behind me.  I specifically listen for cars that are moving extra slow, bike tires, and footsteps.

4. LET SOMEONE KNOW.  Tell someone you live with or text/call someone that you're heading out by yourself and about how long you think you'll be.  That way when you haven't told them you're back within that time limit; they can get help sooner.  Even better, find a running partner.  Running with people is the best thing you can do for yourself.  They'll push you harder, they'll motivate you, and you'll probably have A LOT more fun.  Oh..and you'll be safer!!  But I know that not everyone likes to do this (me included), so at least tell people you're leaving!!!

5. CARRY MACE.  Don't be stupid, protect yourself!  I have no preconceptions...I am a female, 5'0", 120#..I'm a worm in a fish tank!  Yes, when instincts kick-in and I'm in danger, I'll do things I never thought possible, but I'm still going to protect myself.  I always carry mace with me when I run, no matter the time I run at.  You can get fairly cheap and discreet looking spray from any running or athletic store.

6. DAYLIGHT AND TRAFFIC.  Run during daylight as much as possible..it's just safer to run when people can see you.  Also, once you find a route or trail figure out when the busy times are.  Do your exercise during those times.  Yes, it may be annoying and get congested, but personally I'd rather be safe than have all the space I want.

7. ROUTES.  Last, but not least find multiple routes you can use and use a different one each time you run.  Circulate your routes.  Not only will you not get as bored as quickly, but then other drivers or people won't get to know your routine..which yes is a bad thing!

Now I'm not trying to scare you into exercising indoors (hell, I HATE treadmills).  I just want you to be safe.  I don't want you to be naive, but don't get paranoid.  Just because someone honk or yells obscene comments to you; does NOT mean they're going to do anything to you.  Be honest with yourself..if something looks sketchy, avoid it!  I hope you learn something about being safe or it pressures you to do the safety tips you've known you need to do.

Workouts On Vacation

Here on the workouts I did while on vacation!  I didn't have access to a gym, so I had to incorporate cardio and bodyweight training.

Saturday: 200 single under jump ropes warm-up

3 rounds: 15 pushups, 20 burpees, 100 jump rope, 1.25 mile run (on the 3rd round I did 30 pushups, 40 burpees, and 200 jump ropes)

Sunday: AM- warm-up: 200 single under jump rope

3 rounds: 25 pushups, 25 squats

Finished with a 5 mile run in less than 40min! with my uncle on the golf course (hilly!!)

PM- swam 21 laps in that beautiful pool pictured above.

Monday- Rest Day

Tuesday- AM warm-up: 500 jump ropes (got creative- single unders, one foot, back and forth, side to side)

6 rounds: 10 burpees, 20 lunges (each leg), 10 pushups, .5 mile (hard!)

PM- 7 laps at the pool

Wednesday- 1 hour on bike

100 body weight squats, 50 pushups, 4min plank, 50 burpees, 100 crunches, 30min on bike

Thursday- 1 hour on bike, 2 mile run

AMRAP (as many rounds as possible) 15 min: 10 lunges (both legs),10 pushups with toe touches, 10 jump squats, 10 full burpees

Friday- 4 rounds: 15min on bike, 25 pushups, 25 squats (ass to grass)

Saturday- AM: 7ish mile run

                PM: 7 laps in the pool

Sunday- OFF (walked around an outdoor mall for a few hours)

Monday- Warm-up: 300 single under jump ropes (creative)

10 rounds: 

10 burpees (full)

20 jumping jacks

20 squats (ass to grass)

10 squat jumps (ass to grass)

10 pushups 

Post Texas

I'm back from vacation! It was an amazing time and a much needed time away, but I'm glad to be back in the beautiful plains of Nebraska. Here's a short recap of what I did while in Texas: worked out on this amazing bike:

ran with my uncle, hung out with a majority of my mom's siblings and grandma, ate, and relaxed by the pool .

There was obviously some highs and lows. I'll start with the highs because there's a lot more of those.


Highs:

Even though I was on vacation I didn't stop working out, especially since my first triathlon is this coming Sunday!!! I wrote out the workouts I did on the next post, so I didn't take up so much space.

I also got to hang with my family whom I haven't seen in a few years and I got to meet my new cousin, MG. We're pretty much besties now.

Lows:

I guess the only "lows" of vacation were my bad eating and my craving for CrossFit. I didn't do terrible on eating, but I could have done better. I was really good most of the day, but where I would fall was dinner or having a dessert when I usually don't eat dessert, but they were SOO worth it. My "hiccups" were a margarita (best I've ever had), red velvet cupcake (I can't say no to those!), and soft serve yogurt.

It definitely could have been worse and I'm not being too hard on myself because one it would get me no where and two I'm on VACATION!

 I also realized how much I love CrossFit. I was starting to miss the ability to pick up heavy (at least for me) weights and throw them down and curse without blushing. I mostly missed the atmosphere. I pushed myself this week, but it's not like when there are people cheering you one to finish or finish faster or even trying to push yourself to keep up with others in the same workout.

I'll end on that note (don't forget to check out my workouts during vacation in the next post) and leave you with some more pictures from vacation!

                 

My new camelbak that got me through my workouts

The cliffs we drive through in OK

My new buddy during vacation.  He has it so hard

Vacation=Not a Time for Quitting

I can't hold in my excitement of leaving in the early morning for vacation...AHHHHHHHHHHKAJLFKJ (was that enough for you to get the idea)??  I don't think I've been on a real vacation (where I just relaxed) for over a year.  I already warned work and other not so important places that I will NOT be answering my phone.  I am taking this next week and a half to relax and recoup.

Now, I know the biggest thing people fear about going on vacation is that they'll follow off their healthy lifestyle "wagon."  NOT TO FEAR I have already thought about this and worked ahead and am going to leave some tips:

1. PACK FOOD for the road trip- I have a 10-hr road trip in front of me and it is easy to slip into the gas station binge with chocolate candies and Cheetos.  Instead, I have packed veggies and fruit that can be eaten without making a huge mess.  Forgot to pack??  Just eat smart at the gas stations and restaurants.  You know deep down what's good and what's bad (donuts and pizza- bad, unsalted nuts and raw fruit- good)!
2. STAY ACTIVE- let whoever you are traveling with or meeting up with that you will have to fit time in to workout.  Luckily, my mother (whom I am traveling with) knows me and knows I will not miss a day, even though we're on vacation.  I also already arranged to borrow my Aunt's bike while we're on vacation and asked where open water would be located for some swimming, so my family knows that I have no intentions of slacking on my workouts.
3. REMEMBER YOUR GOALS- my last piece of advice seems like the most obvious, but can be hard to follow in the moment.  On vacation most people like to eat lavishly and forget all about their health goals...DON'T!  Even if the people with you partake in overindulging, remember what your goals are and that you can't reach them if keep holding yourself back.  They may look at you strangely, but who cares..are you doing it for them?? NOPE.  It's just for you so stay strong!  I'll keep you updated with some on-the-go workouts and meals while I'm gone :)

Also, I have to keep you updated on CrossFit..DUH!  I am loving it, still.  One of the coaches put it best the other night, "Embrace The Suck!"  He meant that yeah it's going to suck and it's going to be hard, but embrace that part because you will come out SO much stronger and prouder of yourself for finishing.  Which is so true because I cannot honestly remember the last time I pushed myself this hard. I literally finish EVERY SINGLE workout by collapsing on the ground because there is nothing else left in me.  Maybe that's why I love it so much; it's the EXACT same feeling I get after completing a marathon.  It is also SO humbling to be back in the athlete/team atmosphere.  I know I am strong and can push myself, but to see that I have so much farther to go before I am as strong as some of the other girls at my gym motivates me.  I want to be able to push press over 150# or do a muscle up without breaking a sweat!!  I did however get a rope climb (15 feet for the first time EVER..couldn't have done it without them pushing me).

My yummy rope burn.  Note to self:  don't wear short shorts to a rope climb

I also am obsessed with the gym:  http://crossfithydro.blogspot.com/ if you're interested in learning more.  It is more than working hard.  It's like a community- we workout together, we cheer each other on, challenge each other to move faster or lift heavier, and hang out after the workouts.  I feel at home again being a part of a team atmosphere again :)

Hanging out after a WOD

Here's an example of a couple our WODs:

#1 3 sets of Push Presses (3x is one set)
     2 sets of Jerks (2x is one set)
     1 set of Split Jerks (1x is one set)
    2mins of as many squat jumps as you could get
I did 83# for push presses and 93# for both jerks and split jerks, and got 72 (I think) squat jumps


#2  7 Rounds of:
      10 pull-ups (chin over bar)
      20 burpees (no push-up)
      30 stick jumps
 I had to scale mine and use a blue band to help me kip up to the pull-ups and used a 16" bench instead of 20", but I finished in 19:30!!


Here's what I tend to look like after only 20mins of balls to the wall!!!

Even my baby muscles are showing through!

I'll finish up with some FUN pictures of the Warrior Dash I did in Iowa with my sister-in-law, my brother, and some of her friends!!

FIRE JUMPER- Channeling some Hunger Games 

Before the Mess

Post Dash

Me and My sister-in-law

Yeah, we're pretty tough!

Random Rant with too many subjects!

Hey all,

So it's been a few weeks- I got through Thanksgiving with out too much damage made.  Since then I've come across some subjects I'd really like to talk a little bit about.

First, is a December Promise I came across on "Strong is the New Skinny" Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/StrongIsTheNewSkinny (if you haven't looked at it, you SHOULD).  Here's how it goes:

My December Promise...

I will keep eating right.

I will remember this is my dream.

I will work through the pain.

I will keep smiling.

I will wake up every morning determined to go to bed with satisfaction.

I will remind myself I'm not alone.

I will drink more water.

I will push harder.

I will NOT give up.

EVER.

I LOVE this and I've already put inside my planner, so that everyday I see it, even past December 31.  I want to remember why I'm doing what I'm doing when I see all those holiday sweets my mom starts baking.  That it will be hard to keep walking past all the chocolates, but it WILL be worth it.  So, if you feel up to it..join me!  Some tricks I have found and/or come up with myself to stop from holiday binging are: remember why I'm doing this, repeat in my head "this is not an option", and count down from 140 (what I used to weigh before I started x-country in high school) to 120 (what I weight currently)-- that one seems to work the best.

Next, subject I came across was actually on The Doctors (which I am first to say that I am not the biggest fan of the show because sometimes I feel like they freak/scare people out too much into thinking they have health issues), but the other day Jillian Michaels said when did people start using the words "working out" for exercise.  When did we make exercise work?  This is SOO true, even for me.  I got to the point that I felt like I had to go to the gym and/or run everyday or I felt guilty.  Then after hearing this I decided to have "fun" again in my exercise routine- I started adding more HIIT routines, switched them up even more than usual, and went to spin classes or did sprint workouts.  Now I am once again enjoying going to the gym, leaving with a smile, and a deeper burn in my muscles (I got 6 pull-ups without any weight or another person's assistance)!  I'm not only having more fun, but I'm also working harder and longer!

I also read another thing Jillian Michaels said about clean eating, "If it doesn't come from the ground or didn't have a mother, don't eat it."  Finally, clean eating clicked for me.  I have been having a hard time figuring out "clean" eating.  I've been trying to do it because I know it's much better for me, but for some reason it hasn't been clicking and then I read that quote and immediately had some "Oooh I get it!" moment or something like that.  I'm not sure why it clicked, but it did and now I'm starting to think before I eat: "Could I grow this?  or Would this have had a mother?" If my answer is no..I try and pass it by.  So, if you've had any confusion or trouble with "clean" eating maybe this will be your "Ah Ha" moment as well!

Along with probably millions of other people I watched parts of the Victoria Secret Fashion Show that was on a few days after Thanksgiving--BAD IDEA!  Not only did I start to feel bad about my body, but then I started wondering what I was doing wrong and they were doing right (LOTS of food and no exercise make you think crazy things).  So I decided to do some research on what the models do to get ready for the runway...and let me tell you I will take my curves, weigh more than them, and be much shorter than the models.  One of the girls starts personal training EVERY DAY starting in AUGUST!!!  Now, I train with my trainer 2x per week and that is enough for me.  Working that hard everyday of the week could actually be harming her body.  She's not giving her muscles time to heal and build themselves back up.  Then another stops eating carbs a couple weeks before the show, then 9 or 8 days before the show all she eats is protein shakes and eggs (YUCK!!), and then 12 hours before the show she stops ingesting EVERYTHING!  No food, no water, nothing!  To make matters worse those pretty wings they flaunt weigh around 50lbs each!  I know how weak and irritable I get from not eating every few hours- I could NOT imagine how I would act if I had to go through that insane diet, but I guess that's why she's on the runway and I'm watching it on TV.  

http://www.cnn.com/2011/11/25/showbiz/tv/obsessions-victoria-secret-show/index.html

Then I found a blog by writers from Omaha aka the Momaha writers.  

http://blogs.momaha.com/2011/11/7526/

They mostly write about everything and anything from their perspective as mothers and wives, so usually I don't read it, but one of the women wrote a very interesting article about the Victoria Secret Show.  She had written that she was not going to be watching the show because she did not want her children getting the wrong idea about beauty.  That most women are not made like that. She also did not want to put herself in a position of feeling bad about herself or her body.  I really liked this article because the women that have the most pull on changing views of beauty (mothers) want their children to know that models aren't the only "beautiful" women.  

Which brings me to my last subject, another article written by another Momaha.  

http://www.omaha.com/article/20111205/LIVING/712059995

It was about a mother who went to go watch a Jr. High Girl's Basketball scrimmage and couldn't help but notice the young girls would change jerseys and flash the entire crowd their sports bras.  Some people were taken back by this and at first, so was the writer until she thought more about it.  These girls weren't trying to be "sexy" or trying to show off their bodies, but rather they were just playing the sport they loved and lived for.  Then, she made a GREAT point about what girls and women running around in sports bras really symbolizes: everything that is going on RIGHT in her life- her health, she's exercising, she's healthy enough to be playing sports and exercising, she doesn't do it for decoration or sex-appeal- she does it for self-respect.  Thank you, for writing this article!!  Maybe some other people will realize why I only wear my sports bra while I go running in the summer heat- it's not for looks or attention, it's because it's 100 degrees outside!!  

Well that's my rant for now!  Til next time and one step closer to a hardbody,

Mo