26 Pounds 26 Miles

A hot & sunny 6 miler

2010-09-09T17:06:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago it was still summer (at least weather-wise) in the Northwest. And although I know better, it just so worked out that on one particular day, I had to do my run in the late afternoon.

For kicks, I decided to take my camera and share my adventures with you. It sure made it seem more like "fun" and less like "work!"
Beautiful location for a run, eh? It is! This is one of my very, very favorite places to run at the moment. It's in University Place, Washington at the new Chambers Bay Golf Course. If you haven't been there, it's worth visiting. They have PAVED trails, a dog run, restrooms, and lots of great vistas, such as this:
This was taken at the halfway point of my run, at about 3 miles out. To prove to you that I survived, I decided to snap a quick self photo. Yes, it was hot!

Remember, if your running routine has you in a rut, get out there and have fun! Try a new route, bring your camera, run with a friend and chat about old times. Keep things spicy!

My review of POM Wonderful

2010-08-12T20:31:00.001-07:00

I was recently contacted by the folks at POM Wonderful to see if I would like to review their pomegranate juice. (Would I?!)

The juice? Just delicious in my opinion. If you've never had pomegranate juice, I would equate its tartness similar to cranberry. It definitely has a stronger taste than most juices. As with cranberry, it works really well when blended with other fruits. POM Wonderful sent me their blueberry pomegranate to review, and I found the sweetness of the blueberry was a perfect pairing with the pomegranate!

So why pomegranate juice? And why POM Wonderful?

Throughout history, pomegranates have been known for their antioxidants. And POM Wonderful is committed to providing the very best pomegranate juice. I was impressed to learn that all of their juice comes from California (the San Joaquin Valley) - nothing imported here.

Their products have also been extensively researched for medical benefits ($34 million spent on research since 1998, to be exact). In case you're wondering, they did find a whole host of benefits - particularly for prostate and cardiovascular health and erectile function.

As I suspected, there are other uses for POM Wonderful. If you visit their website, they have an entire section devoted to recipes using their product!

I actually had some just before and just after a long run recently. Simple sugars, such as those found in juices, are perfect because your body can use them right away. I would definitely recommend POM Wonderful to someone looking to make healthful choices in their diet!

Note: POM Wonderful sent me a case of pomegranate juice to review. All opinions expressed are my own.

My Day in Two Sentences

2010-07-30T22:49:00.001-07:00

Waking up remembering you have 16 miles to run = not such a great feeling.

Going to bed knowing you accomplished what you set out to achieve = the BEST feeling.

Hot and Hilly 8 Miler Yesterday!

2010-07-25T10:20:00.000-07:00

So it turns out I will NOT be doing Torchlight next week, so I decided to run 8 miles yesterday and save the 16 for next weekend. This is a better training strategy anyways. I don't like to increase my long runs back to back when I don't have to! It gives my body time to adjust and helps prevent overtraining.

If any of you live in Western Washington, you know we've had an unseasonably wet and cold summer. Which is perfect for running! I do not particularly enjoy running in hot weather. But yesterday, the sun came out just in time for my 8-miler. HOORAY. (Huge dose of sarcasm here.)

Fortunately, I had significant shade for most of the run, but I still managed to get a decent sunburn by the time I was done. Reminder to self: wear sunscreen! I also had a nice coat of salt on my skin and face.

The run felt harder than my 14-miler from the week before. I just felt stiff, though I can't say that my joints hurt. I just felt...tired. I've had to learn to not let this sort of thing discourage me long-term though. I have some good runs, some OK runs, and some bad runs. I'd say this one was OK because I was able to run it all (except the last monster hill at the end!).

My good friend Heather will be in town next weekend, and I can hardly wait! Heather and I used to work together and we've done several races together. My half marathon PR (Mercer Island in 2:10) was completed thanks to her kickin' my butt the whole way! I also trained for and completed my first and only sprint triathlon thanks to Heather! But alas - she up and left me to marry her husband and moved to Texas. (OK, Heather...I'll forgive you!!) Anyhow, she asked if I'd be interested in doing a long run with her while she's here this weekend. What a trooper - planning a long run on her break home! I'm not sure that I'll be able to keep up with her, but I'll try for old times' sake!

My Plan of Action for July

2010-07-21T12:30:00.000-07:00

I realize I needed to change up my long run schedule a bit because I will be attending BlogHer in NYC in early August. And I'm just NOT going to run a 16 miler that weekend!

So here is my plan for the week & rest of July:

Monday (19): 20-minute Shred (Done!)
Tuesday (20): 4-mile run (Done!)
Wednesday (21): 60 minutes cardio
Thursday (22): 3-mile run
Friday (23): REST
Saturday (24): 16-mile run
Sunday (25): 2-mile run

Next Week

Monday (26): 20-minute Shred
Tuesday (27): 4-mile run
Wednesday (28): 60 minutes cardio
Thursday (29): 4-mile run
Friday (30): REST
Saturday (31): Torchlight Parade 8K
Sunday (1): 2-mile run

I'll post more about this weekend's 16 miler in a couple days.

Four long run recovery tips

2010-07-19T09:38:00.000-07:00

Today I thought I'd share my best advice for what to do to recover quickly from a long run!

1. Ibuprofen! I've not tried this personally, but I think I'll give it a whirl on my 16-miler this weekend. The idea is to take a couple BEFORE you start running, to help prevent any muscle aches. I've heard other runners swear by this, so I'll have to give it a try and tell you what I think.

2. Ice bath. Now this is going to sound rather masochistic, so just bear with me for a moment. When you get an injury what do you often do? Ice it! The idea is that the cold helps reduce swelling. This works wonders on achy leg muscles following a long run. I've done this two different ways. The first is the hard core method: fill the bathtub with a few good inches of the coldest water possible and sit in it! It is murder at first, but just trust me on this one. I try to sit for about 10 minutes or so and I may keep my upper body covered or wrapped in a towel while I do this. AFTERWARDS, I'll hop in a hot shower. The other, simpler method: run the shower on cold for a few minutes and direct the water at your legs. Then turn it to hot. I know this sounds awful - and it sort of is at the time - but I promise, it will do wonders for your recovery!

3. Short 2-miler next day. I know the last thing you want to do is run following a long run, but even getting out there and doing a gentle 2 or 3 mile run will help keep your legs from stiffening and work out the kinks. I did this yesterday following my 14-miler on Saturday. The 2-miler wasn't bad at all - I actually felt I could've gone much farther. But I didn't. The point here is to just recover, not to do a full workout. If you really do NOT want to run, get out there and do a fast walk for 20-30 minutes.

4. Rest! This is my favorite post-run activity! It's important to kick your legs up, maybe have some nice person rub your feet, and if you're able - take a nap. You've earned it!

What are your favorite ways to recover from a long run?

Photo credit Ariel da Silva Parreira

Portland Marathon: Decision Time

2010-07-18T09:12:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I decided to go on a 14 mile run.

I felt I needed to see how I'd hold up on a long run at this point and determine if pursuing the Portland Marathon for October would be do-able or not. I had some serious doubts after a dismal half marathon finish a couple weeks ago.

So how did my 14 mile run go? Really, really...GOOD! No hip or knee issues and I was able to run most of the whole thing! When my pedometer read 13.1 miles, I was at 2:20 into my run, a full 25 minutes faster than my half marathon time a couple weeks ago!

As I was out there, I had plenty of time to weigh the pros and cons.

Pros:

- I'm already registered and I've paid my $100
- I'm already up to over a half marathon in distance
- I've wanted to do the Portland Marathon for a LONG time
- 10-10-10 sounds like a neat date to run a marathon
- I've heard good things about this race
- I have friends running this race
- I have this blog about finishing a marathon
- I have done 4 half marathons and 3 full marathons - this will even the score

Cons:

- My half marathon was pretty poopy
- Long training runs can be sort of draining at times
- Not entirely "feeling" it
- Very busy summer - headed to NYC in August, a couple other obligations in September
- Need to arrange for travel

In the end? The Pros won! I've decided I need to follow through and finish this goal I've started. I'm a little nervous...more so than past marathons...but I know I can do this.

To celebrate my decision, I decided I needed a few pairs of new running socks. The ones I had kept giving me blisters. While not cheap, these Nike running socks put a big ol' smile on my face yesterday and I knew they were just the thing to get me excited about my next training run...16 miles.

I hope to share more with you about how I'm training as I get into the "meatier" long runs. I plan on doing a 16, 18, 20, and 22 in preparation for the full 26.2.

The good, the bad, and the question on my mind

2010-07-05T10:23:00.001-07:00

One week out from my half marathon and how am I doing? I've got good news, bad news, and a big ol' question in the back of my mind.

We'll start with the good news...

Last week I had two GREAT 4-mile runs! This is the same hilly route I struggled through about 7 months ago. I think at my worst, it took me about 56 minutes to run. On Tuesday, I ran it in 45:30 and yesterday, 43:30! Again, this is a VERY hilly run. My pedometer read 4.20 when I stopped, so who knows...my time might have been better than I thought!

I feel so very strong on these shorter distances now. I can say running is truly fun again for me. I was also pleased that I didn't experience any hip or knee issues during yesterday's run.

Now the not so good news...

It appears I've put back on about 4-5 pounds. Sort of a bummer since I worked so hard. It's time to clean up my diet and get back on track. I'm still under 150 and I can still wear my size 8's, but I don't want to lose any more ground.

I'm actually headed to NYC in a month for BlogHer and I want to look and feel my best. I plan on working pretty hard this month and hope to dig in and lose a few more good pounds.

And the question...

This might come as a shock since this blog is all about marathoning, but I'm having serious doubts about wanting to run the Portland Marathon this year.

Here's the thing...while I completed the half marathon last week, I can't say that it was entirely fun. I had my slowest finishing time EVER and ended up having to walk a considerable portion due to hip and knee pain.

Go back to March...I ran my first 5K in a decade and hit a PR! I had fun...it was short so I could really push myself. This week's 4-mile runs were also fun for me for the similar reason.

I'm wondering if it's time I shift from long distance (which I've already proven I can do) to learning how to become a better, faster runner (something I've never entirely focused on).

I want working out and running to remain fun and interesting and quite honestly, I'm having second thoughts on this marathon.

What do you all think I should do? I need to make a decision pretty quickly....

Thoughts??

Race Etiquette

2010-06-28T21:40:00.001-07:00

During my half marathon experience last weekend, it occurred to me that it would be good to share my best racing etiquette rules.

Here is my list of racing rules...and if you see something I'm missing? I'd love to have you chime in!

Rule #1: Do not cut in line. You think this should be good common sense no matter what, but I encountered quite a few line cutters last weekend. Get there early and wait your turn. This goes for waiting for any shuttles/transportation, porta-potties, getting water, etc.

Rule #2: If you need to walk, move to the far right. It is a very frustrating experience indeed if you are trying to run and pass a walker in the middle of the road. I've had races where I needed to walk - including last Saturday. That's fine, just move right.

Rule #3: If racing with a friend, be mindful of others that want to pass. For some, running and finishing a race with a friend can be a very positive experience. Just make sure you are doing your best to let runners easily pass you and that you're not blocking half of the roadway.

Rule #4: When taking water from a water stop, move out of the way. All it takes is to have a few people slow or stop in the middle of the road for chaos to ensue. Most water stops are fairly long, so what I like to do is keep running until the very end of the water stop. This way I can get my drink quickly and move on. Again, just pay attention to others around you.

Rule #5: Do NOT throw your garbage in runners' paths! Believe it or not, it is perfectly acceptable to toss your water cup on the ground and keep running. Volunteers are there to keep things swept. However, it is extremely rude to splash your water or throw your garbage in the middle of the road. Runners can easily fall. Even worse, last Saturday I saw a girl spit - and I do mean SPIT on the ground just in front of another runner. Again, MOVE RIGHT.

Rule #6: Be aware of your conversation (if any). If you're going to say anything, make it positive. And don't be annoying. My friend Joan was unfortunately stuck behind a runner telling another runner what was coming up ahead in the course, etc. etc. It was irksome. She also encountered someone that had finished the race and had come back to spectate to tell fellow runners how the rest of their group was already pretty much done, but to keep going. I pretty much don't say much on the course. I did say "go, marathoners!" when the 1/2 and full course split up and I did hollar a bit at mile 11. But that was it. No need to bemoan your pain or suffering to other runners. Keep it to yourself. (Unless, of course, you are in need of medical attention.)

Rule #7: Don't be a snob. I'm not the fastest runner in the world, but I have a few race times I'm pretty pleased with. However, it's important to remember that whether you run the race in an hour or two...it's the same distance for everyone and a huge accomplishment! Remember to celebrate everyone that finishes. This is their race, too.

What else would you add to my list?

Photo credit Harrison Keely

Rock 'n Roll Half Marathon Race Recap

2010-06-27T21:56:00.000-07:00

I'm proud to say I finished my fourth half marathon yesterday!

This was my first Rock 'n Roll event. There were some things I really liked about this particular race, and there were also some things I found incredibly annoying.

Let's start with the good:

::The weather was perfect! Seriously, I don't think I've ever run a race in better conditions ever. Upper 50's, low 60's, cloud cover...perfect.
::The course was mostly flat. Maybe you'd disagree with me if you were an out-of-towner, but as far as Northwest courses go? This one was pretty tame.
::The music/entertainment was great! I'd recommend this race for anyone with a super short attention span. There was ALWAYS something keeping you going on this course...bands, fans, water stations, and the like.

Now for the things that irked me:

::The pre-run stuff was not fun. The race starts in Tukwila and ends at Qwest Center in downtown Seattle. However, you had to park at Qwest and take one of the shuttles down to Tukwila. This took a long time. From the time we parked until we got to Tukwila? One hour.
::The corrals. While the race started at 7, it didn't start for me until near 7:30. UGH. I don't think I've EVER been in a race where it took so long to get the runners through the start line.
::My knee and hip! About mile 8 or 9, my left hip and knee started to feel buggy. I ended up having to walk a good chunk of the time the last 4 or 5 miles....which resulted in a not-so-good overall finishing time for me.

That being said, here's my stats...

Time: 2:47
Place: 12,879/17,593
Gender Place: 8,634/12,560
I finished before 39.5% of the people in my division

This is definitely a far cry from my PR of 2:10 (in 2005), but I am glad to have finished this race and added another medal to my collection.

Of course, I had to pull all my medals out tonight. I'd forgotten my first half marathon was in 2003...to think I've been doing half and full marathons for seven years now surprised me!

Pictured: (from L-R: 2003 Seattle Half Marathon, 2004 Vancouver Full Marathon, 2004 Seattle Full Marathon, 2005 Federal Escape Sprint Triathlon, 2006 Seattle Half Marathon, 2007 Disney World Full Marathon, 2010 Seattle Rock 'n Roll Half Marathon)

Not Pictured: 2005 Mercer Island Half Marathon. They did not give out medals for this race, and it's a crying shame. That's the race I got my 2:10 PR on!

I have a couple more things I want to share soon as I've reflected on marathoning. They deserve their own posts though...so stay tuned.

Tomorrow is race day

2010-06-25T14:46:00.001-07:00

Ah....the day before a race.

How am I feeling? Nervous. Excited. Ready to go already. Ready to be celebrating my accomplishment, sore feet and medal hanging from my neck.

I can't believe here I finally am. After starting out of shape and overweight several months ago, I've lost most of the weight and am capable of finishing a half marathon without killing myself! The human body is truly an amazing thing. While I wish I would've pushed myself harder to have lost those last few pounds, I am truly grateful at the progress I have made.

Yesterday I picked up my timing chip and racing bib. I must say that most of this last week I haven't really been "feeling" this race. And then something happened when I walked into the expo. Maybe it's the loud music and flashing lights. Maybe it's being surrounded by hundreds of runners that are gearing up to run the same race. Or maybe it's the memory of preparing for my first half marathon several years ago. Whatever the case, I can say I'm ready!

I was talking to my friend Denise last night on the phone. I had the pleasure of training for and running my my recent marathon, The Disney World 2007 Marathon, with her. I was telling her how as I left the expo yesterday, I was fighting back tears. She understood exactly what I meant by that. There is just something so powerful, so moving, and life-changing about the marathon process. I can't fully articulate it (and I am a person of many words).

I feel so blessed that after two kids, I'm still at this. And no doubt tomorrow, even after 3 half marathons and 3 full marathons, there will still be a few tears of hard-earned accomplishment.

Time to eat some pasta, put my feet up a little, and picture that finish line.

See you on the other side!

Pictured above: my running shirt, bib, and swag from yesterday's Expo

Training schedule update!

2010-05-30T12:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I ran 9 miles! Life has been busy and I've gotten a bit off schedule. So having this longer run under my belt gives me some confidence going into my half marathon late next month. This is also the longest distance I've run in over 3 years. I'm a bit sore today, but nothing terrible. I'm getting eager to feel strong on these long runs again.

I also picked up a pedometer over the weekend. I paid about $27 for a small, compact one. The beauty of this is I could just up and run without having to map a course ahead of time. I liked the freedom of running wherever I pleased, but still having the assurance I'd run the distance I'd needed to for the day. I finished the 9 miles in 1:33. Not bad considering the hills. I've really come far in the past 6 months, and I feel good! I still have a ways to go, but I feel I'm headed in the right direction.

This morning I laid out my month's worth of workouts. It's going to mean some serious dedication and effort to get there. Here's what I'm hoping to do:

5/31: No More Trouble Zones (Jillian Michaels' 40 minute workout)
6/1: 5 miles
6/2: Shred workout, Level 2 (Jillian Michaels' 20 minute workout)
6/3: 3 miles
6/4: REST

6/5: 11 miles
6/6: REST
6/7: No More Trouble Zones

6/8: 5 miles

6/9: Shred workout, Level 3
6/10: 3 miles
6/11: REST
6/12: Sound to Narrows or 8 mile run
6/13: REST
6/14: No More Trouble Zones
6/15: 5 miles
6/16: Shred workout, Level 2
6/17: 3 miles
6/18: REST
6/19: 6 miles
6/20: REST
6/21: No More Trouble Zones
6/22: 4 miles
6/23: Shred workout, Level 1
6/24: 2 miles
6/25: REST
6/26: REST
6/27: 13.1 Half Marathon!

I'll keep you posted if I decide to do the Sound to Narrows race.

30 days until my half marathon!

2010-05-26T16:24:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been so long since I've last posted! If you follow my other blog, you might have noticed I have had a LOT going on! Plus that, my family has been sick the last week or so.

Needless to say, it was definitely time to check in! My half marathon (the Seattle Rock 'n Roll Half Marathon) is exactly one month today. So am I ready? In a word, no.

My longest run to-date has been 8 miles and that was a couple weeks ago. I am definitely behind schedule. My workouts and healthful eating have been erratic, at best. In spite of all the craziness, I'm pleased to say that as of today, I weigh 143 pounds! That is 19 pounds down and only 7 more to go to reach my goal weight!

I was able to head out this morning for a short run. Um, it was bad. REALLY bad. I figure I have two more good weeks of trying to make some fitness gains before I'll need to taper off to avoid injury. Later tonight, I'm going to come up with a 30-day plan to get me to the starting line and across the finish line successfully.

I'll share my plan in the next couple days.

My 8-mile run yesterday: hills, hills, hills

2010-05-03T21:27:00.000-07:00

So yesterday I went to run an 8-miler with a few friends. I honestly hadn't worked out all week. It had been sort of a bleh week.

So I supposed I shouldn't have been surprised that my run was also...bleh...

The first mile or so, I kept up with the gals. But shortly thereafter I realized if I wanted to finish the run I needed to slow down. The first 3 miles were mostly downhill, and I just wasn't feeling it. I was feeling it even less when I had to run back UP those 3 miles!

There were moments, maybe around 4 miles and then again at 5 miles, when I felt I had a bit of renewed energy. This might surprise you if you are new to long distance running - but it is entirely possible to start a run feeling mostly crappy, and then suddenly an hour in, feel great! This truly does happen. However, those moments weren't as long enough as I'd hoped.

The last couple miles were pretty brutal, and I found myself hobbling along. I felt really tired and sore towards the end. BUT I kept at it and was able to finish.

This week I plan to get back into a more serious workout schedule and a clean diet. The end of next month is half marathon time, and I have some work cut out for me.

Photo credit Timo Balk

7 tips on running 7 miles

2010-04-19T13:26:00.000-07:00

Still smiling after my 7-mile run today!

Ah...7 miles! Finally we're getting to distances that surpass a 10K. Today I want to spend some time sharing my tips for how to successfully run what I call "middle distances" - runs between 7 and 13 miles.

Tip #1: plan your route! To plot a good 7-mile route, you can always use the odometer in your car and hit the neighborhood. However, I prefer mapmyrun, and others like Google Earth. There are also fun apps you use if that's your thing.

Tip #2: safety first! Once I planned my route for today, I made sure to tell my husband of my plans and a rough approximate of when he should expect me back. I also ran with my cell phone on. It's a good idea to run with some form of ID too. You might check out Road ID for easy options if you prefer not to carry your license.

Tip #3: water! Contrary to popular belief, I do NOT think it's a good idea to drink a ton of water just prior to running (unless you want a full bladder, that is). Have a glass an hour or so before your run. Then just sip. I also start carrying water with me when I run distances beyond an hour (which for me is anything more than 6 miles). Today I just carried a water bottle, but some like a camelback style. The idea is to find something that's easy for you to take sips from without having to stop.

Tip #4: dress comfortably. Even if it's chilly out there, be smart. You will soon grow warm and you might regret having layered on that fleece jacket. I personally like to wear long sleeves with shorts on a cool day - and maybe layer my running vest. I also wear an ear warmer, but not a hat. Sometimes I'll add some light gloves that I can shove in a pocket if I need. I also recommend against wearing 100% cotton socks. I often notice this causes blisters (for me anyways). I like using cotton/poly blends. Just look for those running/fitness socks at your store. They'll work.

Tip #5: leave the music at home, or turn it DOWN! Studies have shown that running with music can leave you distracted. Bottom line? I think unless you're on a treadmill, it's unsafe. You may not hear that car approaching - or that bicyclist. What's worse - I've even read that some attackers may look for pedestrians and runners wearing headphones since they're less likely to be on their guard. While many runners swear by "needing to have music," please think again. Or turn that volume WAY down and PAY attention to your surroundings. What do I do without music? Think. Today I came up for the idea for this post while running. I also got some ideas for blogging. Other times, I pray. I often find my best ideas come when I run. I couldn't imagine NOT having this quiet thinking time to enjoy!

Tip #6: break the distance into sections. This is one of my best tips when approaching long distances. Instead of just counting off miles, think of your run as sections. Today there was the section from my house to the gym, the section from the gym to the Walgreens, and the section from the Walgreens to the coffee house that looks like a teapot. Focus on moving through each section. If you find yourself really tiring, break each section into smaller subsections. I use this approach on my marathons too, incidentally.

Tip #7: sprint at the end! It can be SO easy to just fizzle and collapse at the end. Don't! Here's what I want you to do. For EVERY long run you do, dig deep that last .1 - .2 mile and go at your best all-out sprint. I truly believe this will do something wonderful for you mentally as well as physically as you train for those longer distances.

I had someone recently tell me that she can't seem to get past 5 miles. So how do you take it from 5 miles and work to 7? To quote Nike, "Just Do It!" At some point, you have to believe you can, lace up the sneakers, and hit the pavement.

Happy running!

Follow me on Facebook!

2010-04-12T12:26:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to share that I started a Facebook fan page for 26 Pounds 26 Miles today!

My vision is to have this be a place where we can discuss our fitness and weight loss goals together.

Later today, I'll be sure to add some photos. I'll also create a photo album for you to add yours, too.

Anyone can become a fan! Just go HERE. It'll be fun. I promise!

My 24/7 Moms webcast from last Tuesday!

2010-04-09T19:00:00.000-07:00

If you missed me last Tuesday, good news! You can watch the pre-recorded show. As I reminder, I'm speaking about setting fitness goals (in particular, marathoning) and how as a busy mom of 2, I still managed to lose weight. Enjoy!!

More Jillian Michaels...On Demand!

2010-04-07T17:53:00.000-07:00

I'm a Comcast subscriber and guess what I found tonight on Exercise TV?

Jillian Michaels' new Yoga Meltdown workout!

I'm feeling under the weather today, but hope to try this workout tomorrow if I'm up to it. Anyone else try it yet? It got plenty good reviews on Amazon.

If you're a Comcast subscriber, you might want to check this out! She has several other workouts available, along with The Biggest Loser's "Last Chance Workout" - another I've been meaning to try.

4 Month Photo Results!

2010-04-06T15:56:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to share with you my 4-month photo results! As a reminder, I'm down 17 pounds. I can totally see a difference, can you?

Check it out - here's the before:

After:

Side profile - before:

Side profile - after:

Current weight results!

2010-04-06T08:46:00.000-07:00

OK, so I've not been as consistent with my weekly weigh-in results. At this point, my weight loss has slowed down and I'm getting closer to my goal, so I'm thinking I might do a monthly or twice-monthly weigh-in at this point. Some weeks I'm staying the same or losing about .5 pound.

As of today, I'm at 145 pounds! That's a total weight loss of 17 pounds, and a total body loss of 10%! I'm super excited to be moving closer and closer to those 130's. I'm now less than what I weighed just prior to my last pregnancy. I've really done something here! I'm also less than 10 pounds to my goal of 136, which will be a weight loss of 26 pounds.

My next mini-goal will be to reach 140 pounds. It's been a good 3+ years since I was at that weight. I'm at the point in my weight loss journey now where I'm completely convinced I will reach my goal. It's not an "if," it's a "when," and that feels amazing.

Later today, I'll have my husband take some updated pictures of how I look. I can't wait to see the progress I've made since early December.

Watch me tomorrow on 24/7 Moms!

2010-04-05T20:01:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I'll be featured on 24/7 Moms! This is a webcast - and you'll be able to participate, too. To get started, you'll want to tune in HERE at either 7pm or 9pm PST.

I'll be talking about why fitness goals matter and how to tackle such a goal. I'll also be sharing a bit more about marathoning and my weight loss journey.

24/7 Moms also gives you the opportunity to chat with other moms watching the show. PLUS, there are lots of great giveaways!

6 mile run on Saturday!

2010-04-05T19:51:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, I officially and *finally* kicked off my marathon training!

My friend Kim invited me to run a 6-mile route with her and some friends. I'd run my first half and full marathons with Kim, so it was like good times all over again!

She suggested the route around the new Chambers Golf Course in University Place. Have you seen this place? It's AMAZING! They have a 3.5 mile paved trail that takes you near the water, around the golf course and near a dog park. While beautiful, it sure is hilly though. Plus, after we'd done that route, we had to continue another 2.5 miles to make it an even 6.

Guess what? I finished in just under 62 minutes! Not bad for the longest distance I've run since 2007, eh? Remember just a few months ago I was doing about a 12-minute pace? There is hope!

My plan at this point is to do a long run on Saturdays (following more or less this schedule), and one 3-4 miler during the week. I also plan to keep on doing some additional weigh training/cardio during the week to continue on my weight loss journey and keep a good level of fitness.

I'm so excited to be at this point...to finally be running a full hour without stopping. It feels fantastic. Really fantastic.

Silencing the green eyed monster

2010-04-02T09:17:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week, I was pounding it out on the cardio machine and of course there she was.

The girl that looked amazing. Perfect figure. Pretty. You know the type.

Immediately the thoughts start...how much I'd like to look like that...feeling bad about not looking that good...you know. Sometimes I'll let these thoughts simmer, fester for awhile until I'm left with a general feeling of discontentment.

Today though, I remembered the Bible verse that reads, "take every thought captive." Do you know what this means? Simply put, it means we're to be aware of our thought life and if there's a thought that's pulling us in a wrong direction, we should discard it.

Jealous thoughts can be so hard to deal with, can't they? So here's how I dealt with those thoughts this week. I made myself think of things I like about me. And specifically, my new found fitness and the way I look. It honestly took some work and pause, but this was good because it distracted me from what I had been thinking about previously.

Later it occurred to me how futile jealousy is. Can you ever be pretty enough? Rich enough? Smart enough? There will always be someone better than you in some regard so we must all come to terms with jealousy. And I truly believe learning to be content and grateful for what we have is key for moving past those thoughts.

After coming to terms with my thinking I was able to concentrate my attention on where it was needed: a hard 45-minute cardio workout!

Photo courtesy stock.xchng

Are you a fair weather runner?

2010-03-28T21:47:00.001-07:00

Wind. Rain. Cold. Getting dark. Tired.

On Thursday, I had every excuse to NOT run. Ever notice how all these runners magically appear in the spring and summer?

In spite of how I was feeling and the weather, I decided to lace up my sneakers quickly and get out there. The more you sit around and think about it, the less likely you'll be to follow through.

It was so cold those first few minutes, I had a hard time slowing my breathing. But about 10 minutes in, I was able to relax and even enjoy the Northwest spring evening. On my way back, it was starting to get dark, so I picked up the pace just a bit.

This is one of those runs I'm truly proud of and will remember. Not because it was long - it was just 3 miles. And it certainly wasn't run that fast - something about an 11 minute per mile pace. I'm proud because I was able to go for my run in spite of the excuses.

Here's the thing - there will ALWAYS be an excuse you can use to not workout. I know I've used my fair share in the last couple years. But the fact I'd go out and run in the wind and rain in the evening proves to me that I have made some positive changes over these past few months. I have successfully gotten back into the habit of working out.

Tonight I was going to plop down and watch Celebrity Apprentice and write this post when it occurred to me I was going to use this as my excuse to not workout! Talk about hypocritical, right? So I sat down the laptop, got into my workout gear and did squats, push-ups, lunges and jumping jacks for an hour of the TV show!

After Apprentice, the local news came on. They're expecting a spring storm with strong wind and lots of rain. Goody. I'll be waiting!

Photo credit Panti Marta

Weigh in Monday: I forget what week it is!

2010-03-22T12:52:00.000-07:00

Oh goodness, it's been a couple weeks since I posted a weigh in! I don't know how many weeks I've been at this now, but for those just joining me, I started first of December. So that's about 4 months.

Lest you think I'm jumped off the bandwagon, let me tell you that as of today, I weigh 146 pounds!! Yes, you read that right! I'm down a total of 16 pounds since I started my weight loss adventure - I've lost a whopping 9.8% of my body weight! How awesome is that?!

This morning, I had a GREAT 5 mile run, too. It was my perfect running weather, too: slightly chilly, overcast, but not raining. It felt so good to breathe in the sweet, fragrant air of spring. It was a pretty hilly run, and I finished it in 59 minutes. Not fast by any stretch, but for endurance runs like these I'm just focused on getting used to the distance.

It's time to transition into marathon training now. I've dropped substantial weight, I've achieved some fitness these past few months, and I have a half marathon on the calendar for June! Time to get cracking!

To avoid injuring myself or over-training, I'm simply going to be adding a second day of running per week. I'll also keep up with 2 days of weight-training focus and a 3rd cardio session as I'm able. In a few weeks, I'll replace that 3rd cardio session with another run. But I don't plan on running more than 3 days per week - even in the height of my training season.

Here's the plan for the week ahead:

Monday: 5 miles - DONE!
Tuesday: Jillian Michaels' No More Trouble Zones (this is a 50-minute workout)
Wednesday: 45 minutes cardio
Thursday: Jillian Michaels' No More Trouble Zones
Friday: OFF
Saturday: 3 miles
Sunday: 30-Day Shred, any level

Overall, I'm pleased with my progress. I have 10 more pounds to go and am confident I will reach my goal as I train for my races!

St. Patty's Day 5K last Saturday!

2010-03-15T10:07:00.000-07:00

Pictured above: the running crew! From left to right: Jessie, me, Tia, Kaia, and Christine.

These last couple weeks have been...well...busy. Extraordinarily busy. I've not kept up with my workouts or eating like I should. To make matters worse, I've been coming down with a bit of a cold.

Even still, I had a 5K to run last Saturday. The St. Patty's Day 5K dash in Tacoma. It was 10 years ago I did my first race - the St. Patty's Day 5k dash in Seattle. It seemed fitting to be doing a similar race to kick off a new era of running.

The course was mostly flat, with a couple small hills - one right at the start, the other (of course) just before the finish. I couldn't find my watch the morning of the race, so I had to just push myself hard and hope I'd end up with a decent time.

I did pretty well keeping the same pace throughout the race, and was able to really sprint through the finish line. Overall, I felt I'd done a pretty good job.

My results? 30:47 - a pace of 9:56! I have NEVER completed a race with a pace under 10:00 - this is a first for me! In addition, I finished #43 of 128 for my division. Another first - I've never finished within the top half for my division! I'm so proud to see how far I've come in these past few months - from being in the worst shape of my life to hitting some new PRs.

It was also a special day because I was able to run with four special ladies (pictured above) - and none of them had ever done a fun run like this (though two of them had done cross country in the past). One of the gals, Kaia, actually placed #3 for her age group - not bad for her first 5K, huh?

So where do I go from here? The time has come to up my distance and prepare for marathon season. I officially registered last night for Portland on 10-10-10, so I'm committed to doing this thing!

30 Day Shred Challenge - I didn't "phone it in!"

2010-03-04T21:29:00.000-08:00

A little more than a month ago I had this wacky idea of doing a workout called the 30-Day Shred Challenge. Basically, I'd do all three levels of Jillian Michael's 30-Day Shred workout. Sort of a tribute to the workout that kicked my weight loss into full gear.

To let you know how it went, I thought I would photo document the process. Let me say, be glad you cannot smell through the computer. VERY glad. I had the sweat flying across the room by the time it was over.

Here I am, ready to go!

And here I am, after Level 1. I have to say, this workout is SOOO easy for me now...I can't believe I was dying doing this workout just a few short months ago!

About halfway through Level 2, I started feeling it it. My arms were starting to tense up, but I kept at it and survived.

Did I make it? You bet I did! Here I am at the end of Level 3. Those final circuits were tough, but I pushed on through.

Overall, this challenge wasn't as bad as I'd thought. I was able to stick to most all of the advanced moves. And in case Jillian ever reads this post, she'd be proud to know that no, I did not "phone this one in."

Challenge done!

Weigh in Monday: week ten (the late version!)

2010-03-03T10:40:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling the best I have on this journey! My size 8 khakis - which were completely unwearable even a month ago - not only fit, they fit perfectly!! That horrid belly bloat is melting, folks. MELTING.

As of this AM, it looks like I weigh about 147.5 pounds. I don't have a digital scale, so it's hard to gage the exact weight, but it looks like that ticker is directly between 145 and 150 pounds! And so my descent down that scale continues! Yeah!

As a reminder, I started this journey in early December at an all-time high of 162 pounds. I've since lost nearly 15 pounds...can you believe it? My goal is to reach 136 pounds - a total weight loss of 26 pounds.

I'm really excited about tomorrow's workout...it's something I've had in the works for awhile now. I'm calling it the 30-Day Shred Challenge workout, and here's how it's going to go down in case anyone is interested in killing themselves with me:

Do 30-Day Shred, Level 1
5-minute water break
Do 30-Day Shred, Level 2
5-minute water break
Do 30-Day Shred, Level 3
Collapse in heap on floor

I'll be sure to let you know how it goes!

1st weight goal met!

2010-02-24T07:39:00.000-08:00

I am 149 pounds! That was my first goal and to-date I've lost a half-marathon of weight (13 pounds). This is a total body weight loss of 9%!

Let me tell you, there was something very empowering about seeing that line drop below 150. I haven't been below 150 in three years and it feels really, really good.

So I'm officially half way to my goal weight of 136. My next mini-goal will be 147 pounds, my weight at the start of my second pregnancy.

Weigh in Tuesday: week nine

2010-02-23T09:00:00.000-08:00

Maybe...maybe....maybe?

As I stood standing on the scale this morning, it felt strangely like the time I thought I was looking at a faint - very faint - positive pregnancy test about three years ago. Was that a second line? Maybe.... If I held it to the light? I remember actually opening up the darn thing and taking the paper out, scanning it into my computer and trying to jimmy with the lighting. I went to bed that night still not certain if I was pregnant or not. Sure enough, a couple days later I tested and that second line popped right up. And that second line meant my daughter would soon be joining our family.

So today I'm craning my neck to see if the scale's line is on or below that 150 mark. I'm pretty sure it was a nudge below, but it's SO close! Like the pregnancy test that turned out to be positive, I'm hoping when I re-weigh myself in a couple days that it will be clear I've met my first milestone of 149 pounds. Here's hoping!

My great 4-mile run this afternoon!

2010-02-21T20:53:00.000-08:00

Today was a beautiful Spring-like day in the Northwest. I say "Spring-like" because it felt like Spring in every sense except the calendar tells me otherwise!

I headed out in short sleeves and shorts and hit the local elementary school track. Feeling energized, I started out great and ran my first mile in 10:00! Such an improvement from my running pace of 12:00 a couple months ago.

I noticed I was feeling pretty out of breath, so I slowed it up a bit and ran the second mile closer to 10:30. Overall my pace felt strong and consistent. The last two laps I heard a runner approach and then pass me. I don't know what it was - my pride or a healthy sense of competition, but I decided I needed to pass her. So I picked it up and ended those last two laps at the 10:00 pace!

I'm particularly proud of this run given that I had not one, but TWO encounters with Jillian Michaels yesterday. In the morning I'd done 30-Day Shred (Level 1), and in the evening, I attempted (and finished!) her No More Trouble Zones workout. While I love and swear by Shred, I was looking for something new to spice things up, and this was the ticket.

Here's a recap of how I worked out last week.

Monday: Shred, Level 3
Tuesday: 25 minutes running intervals, 25 minutes ski machine, 10 minutes ab
Wednesday: Shred, Level 3
Thursday: OFF
Friday: OFF
Saturday: Shred, Level 1 (AM); No More Trouble Zones - 40 minute workout (PM)
Sunday: 4 mile run - hard!

I would've liked to have had one more cardio session, but overall I fell really good about this! For weeks now, I've consistently worked out at least 5 days a week, something I haven't done in a LONNNNGGGG time. Let's hope the scale budges for me tomorrow - I'm ready to meet my goal of 149 pounds and leave the 150's behind!

Photo credit Mee Lin Woon

Two month results photos!

2010-02-17T13:27:00.000-08:00

I have yet to post any decent current photos of myself, so I decided to do just that today!! Let's start with before. My weight was 162 pounds and it was early December. I was in size 12s (and snugly at that!)

And here I am today, 12 pounds lighter at 150 pounds and wearing my size 8 pre-pregnancy jeans! This took about two months to acheive. I mainly did this by doing the 30-day Shred and incorporating at least one running session per week of about 3 miles.

Now I'm going to share a new "before" photo. I asked my friend Susan to take this profile shot of me. I was really horrified how bad it looked...what's worse, I realized how frumpy I'd let myself get with the long hair. Check it out.

Here is my new profile. Oh please someone tell me that they notice some changes!!

I can tell I still have a ways to go, but overall, I'm liking the results I've gotten so far! I really feel much slimmer in my midsection and my arms are feeling more toned, too. By the way, like the new 'do?

My produce-eating efforts

2010-02-10T23:27:00.000-08:00

So a few days ago I was really inspired to eat some healthy, fresh fruit and vegetables. This doesn't come naturally for me. BUT, if I have them on hand, I will eat them. So I popped the kids in the car and off we went to the nearest produce stand. The picture above is what we ended up with.

I then promptly whipped up this healthy salad for lunch. I used a black bean Gardenburger to finish it off. While this looks beautiful and while it was very nutritious, it was really NOT my cup of tea. But it's an effort, right? The next day I made a similar salad and finished it off with a couple of meatballs. Much better!

I am pleased to say I've polished off most of the fruit, and some of the veggies...but I still have the eggplant and half of the asparagus and carrots sitting in my fridge calling my name.

Weigh in Monday: week eight

2010-02-08T09:45:00.000-08:00

Today I weigh...150 pounds! Finally, the scale is continuing its descent! That's down 2 pounds from last week's 152 and a total weight loss of 12 pounds. I am now only ONE pound away from reaching my first goal of 149 pounds. I am hoping to crush that this week.

I realize it's time for an updated picture, so I'll see if I can get my hubby to take one of me in my SIZE 8 JEANS later today!

By the way, I had the BEST run yesterday. I mean, it was a really, REALLY good run. One of those runs you remember for a long time. My husband encouraged me to run out near this golf course in University Place (Washington) and man, was it ever beautiful! Water, nice trails, golf course...very scenic, and VERY challenging. I bet this one hill I had to run up was a good .4 - .5 mile. And after running that huge hill, I ran a pretty hard mile. I ran a total of 40 minutes and I felt very strong and fast.

The goal this week - keep up a couple gym workouts. I think the cardio is really important in dropping this weight. I want one of these to incorporate running - I'll choose Wednesday.

Monday: 45 minutes cardio, 20 minutes weights
Tuesday: Shred, Level 3
Wednesday: 40 minutes cardio (make some of this running), 20 minutes weights
Thursday: Shred, Level 3
Friday: Shred, Level 2
Saturday: OFF
Sunday: 3 miles

Here we go!

REVISED training schedule

2010-02-06T11:23:00.000-08:00

It was recently brought to my attention that the half marathon is in JUNE and not JULY. So I'm obviously gonna need to tweak my running schedule! Here is the new schedule to get me trained in time:

January
(Pre-training schedule)
Week 1: 3 miles (done!)
Week 2: 3 miles (done!)
Week 3: 3 miles (done!)
Week 4: 3 miles (done!)
Week 5: 3 miles (done!)

February
(Pre-training, cont)
Week 1: 3.5 miles
Week 2: 3 miles
Week 3: 3.5 miles
Week 4: 3 miles

March
Week 1: 3 miles
Week 2: St Patty's Day 5K (Tacoma) on March 13th
Week 3: 3 miles
Week 4: 5 miles

April
Week 1: 3 miles
Week 2: 6 miles
Week 3: 3 miles
Week 4: 7 miles

May
Week 1: 3 miles
Week 2: 9 miles
Week 3: 4 miles
Week 4: 10 miles
Week 5: 4 miles

June
Week 1: 12 miles
Week 2: 6 miles
Week 3: 4 miles
June 26: Rock n' Roll 1/2 Marathon

July
Week 1: OFF
Week 2: 5 miles + a magical mile (I need to read more about this)
Week 3: 6 miles
Week 4: 15 miles
Week 5: 6 miles

August
Week 1: 17 miles
Week 2: 6 miles
Week 3: 7 miles + a magical mile
Week 4: 20 miles

September
Week 1: 6 miles
Week 2: 7 miles + a magical mile
Week 3: 23 miles
Week 4: 6 miles

October
Week 1: 7 miles
Week 2: Portland Marathon on October 10th
Week 3: OFF

The major adjustments come in June and July. I've opted to NOT do the Sound to Narrows race given the half marathon is the same month. I want to be fully ready and reserved for that race.

I completed all my January 3-mile runs, and starting this weekend, it's time to up my game and transition into some longer distances. I'm ready; bring it on!

Squeezed back into my Size 8's this morning!

2010-02-06T09:18:00.000-08:00

So every few days I've been trying to slip back into my pre-pregnancy, size 8 jeans. Guess what? Today I was actually able to get them to button. While they are a bit on the *tight* side, they are wearable and that feels sooo good!!

Can you believe I started this journey at size 12 barely two months ago? While I still have work to be done, I'm pleased with my progress.

PUSH week is going well. It's exactly what I needed and I'll be darned if I don't see that scale budge down on Monday!!

Finding a healthy weight is a confusing matter

2010-02-02T08:23:00.000-08:00

As you probably know, my personal goal weight is 136 pounds. This is what I weighed prior to my two pregnancies. Once I hit 147 pounds (5 pounds away), I will weigh what I did at the start of my second pregnancy. I believe the mid-130's to be a good range for me.

However, out of curiosity, I decided to see what other websites recommended as a healthy weight (or range) for someone my size. I'm 5'6", medium frame. The results were varied, and interesting.

Weight Watchers: 124-155
Health Check Systems: 130-144
Changing Shape: 130 (ideal weight)
Halls: 118-155
Halls: 135 (ideal weight)
Met Life Tables: 133-147

Well, good night talk about confusing!! The total range here is 118-155, a range of 37 pounds. I understand they're accounting for various frames, but you can see why it's a tricky business to sort through.

Any way you slice it, I'm at the upper range of the recommendations or beyond them. I think my goal is a good one based on these numbers overall and based on my past experience being at my ideal weight. Interesting though, huh?

PUSH week

2010-02-02T08:06:00.001-08:00

So yesterday was my weigh-in. And you might have noticed I didn't post my results or workout plan.

Yet again, my weight had remained the same as previous weeks: 152 pounds. After feeling sorry for myself, I realized I needed to make a decision: am I going to give up, keep doing what I'm doing, or push harder? I realized the first two weren't options, at least not real options if I want to continue this journey.

As it appears I've hit some sort of plateau, I decided it's time to take things up another level. I'm ready to ditch the 150's for the 140's and I'm going to make a serious PUSH this week. I might not keep things at this intensity forever, but I feel I need a really hard week to kick things into gear. Here's my plan. I already completed Monday's workouts and I. AM. SORE.

Monday: 2 mile run, 30 minutes weight train (morning); 30-day Shred Level 1 (evening)
Tuesday: 40 minutes cardio
Wednesday: 40 minutes cardio (morning); 30-day Shred Level 3 (evening)
Thursday: 30-day Shred Level 1 & 2
Friday: 30-day Shred Level 3, 30 minutes cardio
Saturday: OFF
Sunday: 3.5 miles (this is my first week stepping up distance in two months)

While this might look crazy, I think it's exactly what I need to keep focus. It's every bit about keeping me mentally in this race as it is physically.

I also want to really pay attention to my eating habits this week. I'm gonna hit the produce store today and figure out some healthy meals. One thing I did do well last week was to remember to pick up some protein powder. I've been using that in place of carb-filled breakfasts. If I get a late night craving, I'm taking a little bit of it as well to avoid high-calorie snacking.

I've completed 10 miles of this race. While I'm not halfway there yet, I'm sure close and I'm pushing forward.

Weigh in Monday: week seven....REALLY?!

2010-01-25T10:41:00.000-08:00

I am *trying* to be a patient gal and keep motivation high, but today guess what? I am STILL at 152 pounds. That's two weeks running and not a pound dropped. REALLY?!

I did a pretty good job keeping up with my workout schedule last week - Shred, cardio sessions, and my run. I'm wondering if I need to step up my nutrition efforts (I try to avoid the word "diet" on this blog.) I'll make the following two modifications and see if they do anything:

- no cereal for breakfast; only protein-based meal (I really need to grab some protein powder)

- no late night snacking whatsoever

Overall, I think I'm doing a good job of making healthier choices, water intake, and all. Hmmm. I just REALLY want to get under 150 pounds already.

As far as my workout plan, I'm sticking with last week's.

Mind over matter

2010-01-24T19:03:00.001-08:00

Today was a typical Washingtonian Sunday in January. Thick clouds, rain, and cold. Don't get me wrong though: I love Washington through and through and wouldn't have it any other way.

Come three o'clock though, I would've much rather enjoyed my Sunday from inside my warm house, cuddled close to my babies, and maybe a cup of hot tea. Instead, I geared up in my long-sleeves, shorts, headband, and new running shoes and headed outdoors.

For the past three Sundays now, I've enjoyed the company of some good friends out at a local elementary school track. It's helped me stay committed, and it's been fun sharing the experience of getting back into running with others.

I was feeling sort of sluggish today, but I continued anyways. About lap 5 or 6 the rain really started to come down. No matter...Tia, Christine and I continued along anyways. You might recall I recently shared about the Courage to Start. I think today required a fair amount of courage. Today, my friend Christine showed quite a bit of courage. In spite of the weather, she managed to run 20 minutes consecutively - something she'd never done previously. And that's how it begins, doesn't it?

Running is every bit a mental sport as it is a physical one. Running is not easy. But after I finish a good, hard run like today I feel like I've really accomplished something.

It's been said that for every mile you run, you extend your life by 10 minutes. Perhaps one day, when I'm older and my days of running dwindle, I will enjoy the 30 minutes of extra life I earned today enjoying a Sunday afternoon indoors, lazily reading a good book and sipping my latte.

Photo credit Mylene Bressan

Weigh in Monday: week six + weekly workout schedule

2010-01-18T07:28:00.000-08:00

Today I'm holding steady at 152 pounds. While it would've been nice to have seen that scale continue to inch downward, I'm just glad it didn't creep upwards after a week of less-than-fabulous eating!

My goal for next week is to see the scale continue its descent. I really want to end January below that 150 line and reach my first goal of 149 pounds. I'm only 3 pounds away!

Here is my plan for the week:

Monday: 40 minutes cardio
Tuesday: Level 3 Shred
Wednesday: 40 minutes cardio
Thursday: Level 3 Shred
Friday: Level 2 Shred
Saturday: Off
Sunday: 3 mile track run

To jump start things again, I'm working back in a second session of cardio. I think it's key to continue the fat loss.

Just signed up for the Seattle Rock n' Roll 1/2 Marathon!

2010-01-16T22:33:00.000-08:00

Hooray! I did it. I just committed to run my next half marathon!

I selected the Seattle Rock 'n Roll event which is on June 26. My friend Crystal aptly pointed out that I got it wrong on my training schedule - it's in June, not July. Hmmm. So watch for a *revised* training schedule. Given that, I may well opt out of Sound to Narrows this year. That is a HARD race and I don't know that I want to have those races in the same month.

By the way, I was able to use coupon code AZSURVEY09 on my registration and it worked like a charm and saved me $10! The only bummer was that I ended up having to pay an online registration fee of $6.95, so it sort of negated my savings.

Oh well...now I'm committed to doing this thing and it's time to start ramping up. This wasn't the best week of eating for me, but I've done a decent job with my workouts. Tomorrow I've got a 3-miler to do and I hope that my weight will at least hold steady come Monday for my weekly weigh-in. Fingers crossed!

Has anyone else committed to signing up for a race? If so, which one(s)?

Oh Motivation, where art thou?

2010-01-14T18:16:00.000-08:00

So after having a pretty good, solid month of eating mostly right and working out, these past few days I've found myself in a bit of a slump. Maybe because it's I'm craving those not-so-good-for-you foods, or maybe it's because I've been up late again and tired (as usual), or maybe because I feel on some level I've "earned" a break and hey - yesterday was my birthday, too.

Whatever the reason, I'm sitting here trying to muster whatever little bit of motivation I can to keep going and not quit. It's just too easy...you don't workout one day, or the next...and then a couple weeks go by. I've worked too hard to lose ground.

This week I've worked out Monday. That's it. Nothing for the past two days and there was a bit of unhealthy eating going on, too. Not good. Tonight after the kids go to bed, my plan is to do Shred Level 1 and 2 to sort of kick my butt back into gear. I may well do the same again tomorrow night. I also haven't kept up with the water intake as much as I'd like this week. So I see more of that in my future, too.

How is everyone else doing? What do you do to stay motivated when you're in the thick of reaching your goal?

Couch to 5k application!

2010-01-11T12:51:00.000-08:00

I love running with friends! Yesterday, my lovely friends Christine and Jessie joined me out at the track. Boy, I swear it makes the time go by faster to see a friendly face or chat as we round the laps!

Incidentally, my friend Christine was doing this "Couch to 5K" workout that I thought was so awesome I wanted to share it with my readers. Go here to download the app. The plan consists of 9 weeks' worth of workouts. Each session is between 30 and 40 minutes long. By the end? You should be ready to complete your first 5K.

Then, plug in your earphones for your workout and you'll be given instructions on what to do and when. For instance, you'll be told when it's time to run, and when it's time to take a walk break. Brilliant!

So for all my tech-lovin' friends, be sure to give it a look! Thanks, Christine!

Weigh in Monday: week five + weekly workout schedule

2010-01-11T12:43:00.000-08:00

Today I'm sitting (or standing?) at 152 pounds. So that's 1 pound lost from last week and a total weight loss of 10 pounds! I had wanted to reach my first goal of 149 pounds by my birthday, but seeing how that's 2 days away, don't think it's gonna happen.

Incidentally, I had a GREAT 3 mile run yesterday! I can totally see an improvement in my place. My splits actually got FASTER by the lap and I was able to sustain a 9-minute pace for my last lap around the track! What's more, I was able to do my run wearing my favorite running shorts - size medium - that I wasn't able to fit in even 3 weeks ago!

The plan this week? I'm going to drop one of the cardio sessions. The last couple weeks I've realized I've only been able to manage 1 at most, so I'm just going with it. I figure 5 out of 7 days of working out is working for me A-OK! Remember, my goal is to come up with a sustainable lifestyle here.

Monday: Shred - Level 3
Tuesday: Cardio - 45 minutes
Wednesday: Shred - Level 3
Thursday: Shred - Level 2
Friday: Shred - Level 3
Saturday: Off
Sunday: 3 mile run around the track

How's everyone else doing? Where are you at with the 30-day Shred if you're doing it? How about your running?

One month photo results

2010-01-08T21:12:00.000-08:00

So I promised one-month photos. And guess what? I was all excited to take some to share, but of course my husband is working this weekend so I was forced to try to take them myself. (Of course I could've waited, but I'm really not the patient sort.) After struggling with the lighting and flash for a good while, I ended up with these. An advance apology to all my photographer friends.

I hope you can still see some improvement from my initial picture taken on December 7th. What do you think?

Start Photo...Dec 7

And tonight...January 8

I know it's sort of comparing apples to oranges since my pose, outfit, and lighting are all different, but I hope some of my progress is noticeable.

In the second photo, I'm actually 10 pounds lighter than the first! I'm right at 152 pounds and feel pretty darn fantastic! As a reminder, I'm doing the Shred 3-4 days per week, running once per week, and doing cardio 2 times per week. However, this week has been nutty and those extra cardio sessions just haven't worked out for me so well. BUT I'm currently doing Level 3 - and not entirely dying, either. I'm so excited to see my fitness level improving.

What sort of changes have I noticed in my body?

1. less tummy flab. I'm wearing size 12's in the first picture. In the second - size 10's. I hope to be in my good ol' size 8's really soon! That lovely "muffin top" is going away thank goodness.
2. firmer quads. My legs are starting to get SOLID again thanks to Ms. Michaels' use of lunges and squats in EVERY Shred workout. I really can't wait to see how this is gonna improve my running.

3. stronger arms. I'm not using heavy weights in the workouts, but I really think it's all the pushups that are working on toning and strengthening my arms. I especially notice stronger triceps.

I'll see if I can't get a better photo over the weekend to share. In the meantime happy to tell you I lost 10 pounds on the 30-Day Shred!

Weigh in Monday: week five

2010-01-04T07:42:00.000-08:00

I am so excited! This morning I weigh 153 pounds! That's another 2 pounds down, and brings my total weight loss to 9 pounds (5.5% of total body weight lost)!

This means I'm only 4 pounds away from my first goal of 149. I was hoping to get there by my birthday (January 13th), but with only 9 days to go, I'm beginning to think that might be unrealistic. However, I'm pretty sure I'll be hitting my first goal sometime in January and I couldn't be more excited.

Incidentally, my "before" pictures were taken on December 7th. In order to be consistent, I'll do some updated photos on January 7th. I am curious to see if there's a noticeable difference yet...hoping so!

9 down...17 more to go!

Photo credit Gastin Thuavin

This week's workout plan & goals: 1/4

2010-01-03T21:33:00.000-08:00

Tonight I decided to kick it up a notch. I did the 30-Day Shred Level 1 followed by Level 2! It was crazy...but the crazier thing is I did it without stopping and felt great the whole way through!

At some point during Level 1 I realized that tonight is four weeks from the first time I tried it. I remember huffing and puffing then...tonight I breezed through it. (OK, so I still can't do the two full sets of "real push-ups," but I'll get there!) After a quick water break, it was onto Level 2. I feel amazing. Seriously, this video has WORKED at improving my fitness in such a short amount of time!

Here is my plan for the first full week of workouts in 2010!

Monday: 45 minutes cardio
Tuesday: Level 2 Shred
Wednesday: 45 minutes cardio
Thursday: Level 3 Shred (here we go again!!)
Friday: Level 2 Shred
Saturday: OFF
Sunday: 3 mile run

I'm liking the mix of cardio at gym, workout at home, and running on track combo. The variety of activity, location, and times involved really keep things fresh and easy to stick with. So...you'll probably notice my workout schedule's gonna be more or less this type of combination for January.

You also may have noticed I like doing two sessions of cardio other than running per week. I try to make these between 40-60 minutes long for two reasons: 1) to burn fat, and 2) to build cardio endurance prior that will assist me as I begin to run.

As far as nutrition goes, towards the end of this week I started just feeling a bit sluggish again. And this afternoon I had a massive craving for something sweet and snacky. I ended up snacking on a few Apple Jacks - not the best, I know - but certainly not the worst either. This week I want to be more deliberate in my meal planning and to remember to be consistent about my water intake.

What are you going to focus on this week?

Photo credit Sanja Gjenero

The year ahead in running & racing

2010-01-03T09:43:00.000-08:00

I've finally settled on the races I want to participate in and the schedule I want to follow this year. This time around, I've decided on (loosely) following the Galloway Training Cycle. His is a 30-week cycle - much longer than the 16-week cycles I'm used to. His plan takes you way up to 26 miles, and I'm gonna modify that slightly making my longest run 23 miles pre-race. I'm also opting to spice things up by adding a few races into the mix.

So here is my long-run and race schedule for 2010. Each of these distances is a single run most likely completed on a weekend. For January, I will run once a month. In February, I may add a second running day per week if I can get get below 150 pounds (I want to avoid injury.) Once I get into the thick of my training, I will run 2 30-minute sessions each week in addition to my long run - that's it!

January
(Pre-training schedule)
Week 1: 3 miles (done!)
Week 2: 3 miles
Week 3: 3 miles
Week 4: 3 miles
Week 5: 3 miles

February
(Pre-training, cont)
Week 1: 3.5 miles
Week 2: 3 miles
Week 3: 3.5 miles
Week 4: 3 miles

March
Week 1: 3 miles
Week 2: St Patty's Day 5K (Tacoma) on March 13th
Week 3: 3 miles
Week 4: 5 miles

April
Week 1: 3 miles
Week 2: 6 miles
Week 3: 3 miles
Week 4: 7 miles

May
Week 1: 3 miles
Week 2: 9 miles
Week 3: 4 miles
Week 4: 10 miles
Week 5: 4 miles

June
Week 1: 12 miles
Week 2: Sound to Narrows on June 13th (12K)
Week 3: 13 miles
Week 4: 5 miles

July
Week 1: 15 miles
Week 2: 5 miles + a magical mile (I need to read more about this)
Week 3: 5 miles
Week 4: Seattle Rock n' Roll 1/2 Marathon on July 26th
Week 5: OFF

August
Week 1: 17 miles
Week 2: 6 miles
Week 3: 7 miles + a magical mile
Week 4: 20 miles

September
Week 1: 6 miles
Week 2: 7 miles + a magical mile
Week 3: 23 miles
Week 4: 6 miles

October
Week 1: 7 miles
Week 2: Portland Marathon on October 10th
Week 3: OFF

Beyond this, I'm unsure what I'll do. I *might* consider doing the Seattle 1/2 or full Marathon as well in November depending on how I'm feeling. But right now, October's my target!

Photo credit Felipe Wiecheteck

Running in the New Year

2010-01-01T14:08:00.000-08:00

I remembered last night that my husband goes on a 48-shift starting Saturday (he's a firefighter). Which meant of course, that if I was going to do my run, I'd need to go today instead so he could watch the kids.

I decided on a light lunch so I wouldn't be weighed down. 1/2 a vegetable korma meal (these Tasty Bite meals are on sale at Fred Meyer for $1.67 each by the way...), a couple pieces of apple, and the other half of the banana my lil' guy didn't finish. I drank it down with a tall glass of water and a cup of green tea.

I headed out the door at 1 and it was drizzling. I wasn't looking forward to this run so much as I was looking forward to getting over. Out on the track, the wind really picked up giving me some added resistance training.

About a mile in, I realized I was tired. REALLY tired. Not only had I gone to bed past midnight the last two nights in a row, I'd worked hard at home, and had worked out HARD 6 consecutive days now. My body wanted to rest. My time wasn't looking too hot, so I decided to stop monitoring my split times, and shuffle it out.

I was still able to run without stopping and even kick up the pace a little for my final lap, but my overall pace was 12 minute/mile. I think I see the importance of having that good rest day prior to running. Tomorrow is definitely a rest day!

In spite of the challenge, I'm glad I did it and gave it my best. I'm feeling good to be starting the New Year feeling better than I did at any point in 2009! Welcome to 2010 everyone!

My thoughts to-date on nutrition

2009-12-30T18:06:00.001-08:00

Since I started my weight loss ventures a few weeks ago, I haven't really formulated an eating plan. But, I've been doing some thinking and I thought I'd share my conclusions to date.

No dieting. I really think I could've lost more weight by now if I'd restricted my calories to 1200 per day, kept track of "points," or omitted all goodies. But what I want to achieve is long-term, sustainable results. I am a busy mom of two and quiet honestly, I have a life beyond fitness and nutrition! I don't have time or energy to count every last calorie. I also have unfortunately seen folks on Weight Watchers, South Beach, or Atkins (the latter by the way I think is TOTALLY unhealthy) drop the weight fast only to regain it later. No thank you. No dieting.

Healthy, common sense choices. What I can manage in my busy lifestyle is making healthy choices and watching those portion sizes. I really think nutrition need not be overly thought out or complicated. This week, I ended up with a fair amount of fruit from the store. I put it right out in a bowl where I could see it - and naturally, I want to eat it! I think the healthy choices do start at the store. If the temptation isn't in the house, it's less of a temptation, isn't it?

Curb late night snacking. I work at night so naturally I'm up later, and get hungry. I really think this accounts for some of the weight gain in the past few months. I'd basically heat up a second portion of dinner (and dessert if there was any) at about 10:30 and eat it while working on my computer. So this really wasn't late night snacking so much as late night eating! I'm more mindful of this now. While I still get hungry at night, I'm choosing low fat string cheese, oranges, or Kashi cereal. And all in moderation.

Water intake. I'd also recently gotten into a rather bad habit of not drinking water, and indulging in too many sugary coffees and juices. Not good. These days, it's mostly water, water, water for me. Last weekend I decided to throw in some green tea as well. I also found I don't seem to "need" coffee everyday anymore. However, when I want a cup (as was the case this morning), I have Splenda and low-fat milk to add (no creamer or sugar!).

Vitamins. About the time of the first wave of H1N1, I started taking my vitamins regularly again. The key I found was to put them in a prominent place and to make a ritual of taking them with my breakfast. I also take 2 tablets of Acai per day, but only because I got it for free at Walgreens. I can't tell if it's making a difference or not. Figure it can't hurt.

Occasional indulgence. I need this and I refuse to feel bad about it. On Christmas Eve, I had a wonderful ham dinner complete with sweet potatoes, potatoes au gratin, and coconut pie. My thinking is if I make good choices most of the time, then I should be able to enjoy a treat here and there so long as it doesn't become habit. Bill Phillips, in his book Body for Life, talks about taking an "off day" once a week after eating well for the previous 6 days. I don't know if I need an entire day each week to eat whatever I want, but I definitely like having a little wiggle room to enjoy a treat and not feel that I'm a complete failure.

So...that's my philosophy on nutrition at the moment. As I transition into long-distance running, things may shift a bit. But for where I'm at in my weight loss journey, I'm perfectly content with how I'm eating.

I've noticed a lot of other running & weight loss bloggers share photos and recipes of nutritious recipes. Hmm. The next time I come up with something tasty, I just might have to follow suit.

Photo credit Sergio Roberto Bichara

"But you're older now..."

2009-12-28T08:56:00.000-08:00

Can you believe these were the words someone (who shall remain nameless) said to me when it came up I would be doing a marathon next year? Yup. She said I was older now; I had kids. So folks, maybe I should reveal my true "old age:" 31.

I reminded her I ran my last marathon just three years ago and after the birth of my first son.

Incidentally, stuff like this doesn't get me down in the least. I pretty much dismissed it on the spot. If anything, it only fuels my desire to complete another marathon even more.

Out of curiosity, I decided to do a little Googling today about marathoner demographics. I found a report that MarathonGuide.com put out in 2007. Here's what I found:

39.5% of race participants were female
The average age of the male runner? 40.5!!
The average age of the female runner? 36.5!!

Unlike some sports and activities, it appears marathoning is something all ages are participating in. And judging from these averages, I'm actually on the young side.

I also found this interesting. The winner of the female marathon event at the Beijing Olympics, Constantina Dita Tomescu, was 38, and the oldest winner ever of this event. Her thoughts?

"The experience of age helped me."

I really do think there is something to be said about improving your endurance over years of running. It isn't just for the young 'uns.

Weigh in Monday:week four

2009-12-28T08:35:00.000-08:00

To clarify, week four is the week I'm starting - I've completed three weeks of working out.

Today I weighed in at 155 pounds! That's down 2 pounds from last week AND over Christmas week! That is exactly what I was hoping for. So far, I'm down 7 pounds (a total reduction of 4%). That means I have 19 to go to reach my goal of 136.

Why 136? That was my weight at my first prenatal appointment with my son. My starting point essentially.

Next week, I hope to have lost another 1-2 pounds - I'll be happy with anything below that 155 mark. If I can do that, I will end 2009 lighter than when I started it.

If you've been joining me on this quest to fitness, I'd love to hear how you're doing!

Photo credit Gastin Thuavin

This week's workout plan & goals: 12/28

2009-12-27T19:00:00.000-08:00

First, an update on last week. Things didn't go as planned, but I made the best of it. My 3 year old ended up with a stomach bug (on Christmas Eve, no less), so that pretty well thwarted my workout plans I had ambitiously set out. However, in looking back, I did pretty well! I did the Shred video on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday. I got in a hard cardio session on Monday and I just did my 3 mile run. So I basically got the order messed up, but only missed one workout. And I am sort of toying with the idea of doing the Shred tonight after the kids go to bed.

By the way, my three mile run went great! I finished in 33:21 and I didn't have to stop...not even once! I was able to even kick up the pace the last lap. (I love going at a hard pace the last bit of a run.) I felt MUCH stronger than last week, and my pace was a minute/mile faster, too. Still not where I want it to be, but I'm absolutely loving the improvement! I really have to hand it to Ms. Michaels...she is helping me get fit FAST.

This next week will be pretty similar to last week's plan.

Monday: Shred, Level 2
Tuesday: 45 minutes of cardio
Wednesday: Shred, Level 2
Thursday: Shred, Level 2
Friday: OFF
Saturday: 3 mile run
Sunday: 45 minutes cardio

I hope everyone is doing well! This week I'll spend some time outlining the marathon training schedule and races I've decided on for 2010. I hope you'll join me!

Photo credit Sanja Gjenero

Feeling good, keeping at it!

2009-12-23T20:45:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd just drop a line since it's been a couple days. The most exciting thing - yesterday and today (just now actually) I completed Level 2 of The Shred and didn't feel like I was going to pass out! Hard? Absolutely. Do-able? Again, absolutely! I can tell this video is really working to improve my fitness and I'm LOVING it. It's pushing me in ways I never pushed myself in running. And I'm excited to see how it's going to actually improve my ability to run - both the physical and mental aspects of it.

I think I'm still holding at 157 pounds - where I reported on Monday, but I have noticed my pants feeling a little looser these past few days. I'm getting excited, thinking about what it will be like to feel really good about myself again and be able to fit into some of my favorite outfits!

This can also be about the point where I fizzle and "take a break," but I'm going to continue to press on to my goal, holidays and all. I'm not waiting to the New Year to start. I'm going to get a jump on my goals by ending 2009 stronger than I started.

Incidentally, I was supposed to do a 40 minute cardio session today - obviously I opted for the Shred tonight. I plan on doing my cardio tomorrow early AM and I may do a 60 minute session because I know I will want to eat a few special treats (within reason, of course!).

I hope anyone else trying to get fit along with me is feeling good and keeping at it to. Be sure to drop a line!

Coupons for Rock n' Roll Marathon?

2009-12-21T08:39:00.001-08:00

If you read my other blog, The Coupon Project, then you know saving money is near and dear to my heart.

So you can imagine my excitement when I was reading on another running blog last night that Rock n' Roll Marathons often have coupon codes available and that you should NEVER pay full price for one. (I'm so sorry...I don't remember the blog I read this on...I should've noted it, I know.)

Anyhow, I'm pretty sure at this point I'll be doing the Seattle Rock n' Roll Half Marathon in July, and so I Googled codes and found: AZSURVEY09. According to Retailmenot, it should work through January and will save you $10 off ANY half or full Rock n' Roll race!

Through the end of February, the race costs $85 for the half (YIKES!), so you'd end up paying $75 with the code. After February, the cost hikes up to $100. The full costs $100 now and will move to $120.

Weigh in Monday: week three

2009-12-21T08:29:00.000-08:00

Today I hopped on the scale to find I'd dropped one more pound. While I was hoping for 2, I'll take it!

That brings my current weight to 157, and my total pounds lost to 5. Not bad considering this is for about 2 weeks' of weight loss. (That's a 3% body loss.) In order to reach my first goal of 149 pounds, I'll need to lose 8 more pounds. I'm hoping to do this in time for my birthday (January 13th) - we'll see. It will for sure mean some hard work.

I would LOVE to be at 155 next week. While I've been at 155 since my daughter's birth, I sure haven't been there in a few months.

Unfortunately I woke up with a sore ankle today. I sure hope I didn't do anything to it. I'm going to play my cardio session by ear today. This morning, I'm going to try to put it up for awhile and then we'll see how I'm doing this evening. If nothing else, I might try the stationary bike or an exercise that doesn't put a lot of stress on it.

Photo credit Gastin Thuavin

This week's workout plan & goals: 12/21

2009-12-20T09:08:00.000-08:00

This past week's worth of workouts were great! While it involved exercising 6 out of 7 days, it really didn't seem overwhelming. The Jillian Micheals video is 20 minutes, I headed to the gym twice, and one outdoor workout. The variety and combo of longer and shorter workouts fits in perfect to my already busy lifestyle.

I think I've also decided to do only ONE day of running weekly through January. This will help me ease back in and avoid injury while I still have a few more pounds to lose. Incidentally, I found a marathon schedule that I think will also fit into my busy lifestyle, and I'll be sharing that with you shortly. Bottom line is, you do NOT have to spend hours a day training for a marathon - in fact doing so may actually be counterproductive if you're just starting out!

Here's the plan:

Monday: 40 minutes cardio
Tuesday: 30-day shred: Level 1
Wednesday: 40 minutes cardio
Thursday: 30-day shred: Level 2 (gonna try this again....)
Friday: REST
Saturday: 3 mile run
Sunday: 30-day shred: Level 1

Diet-wise, things are going great. Again, I'm not doing anything drastic. The goal is to develop healthy eating I can do forever. I just know I'm not disciplined enough to say, count calories, or never eat a slice of pumpkin pie again. So I'm just doing my best to make healthy choices, watch portions, add water, add vegetables and fruits wherever possible and eliminate late-night snacking and "empty" calories. So far, it seems to be working!

Photo credit Sanja Gjenero

Awesome 3 mile run this morning

2009-12-19T10:45:00.000-08:00

When I woke up, I noticed it had been raining, but wasn't currently, so I decided to do my run outdoors on a local school's track. I don't mind cold weather running in the least. While it can be hard to muster the motivation to get started, my body just does better in the colder weather. I guess I was born to live in Washington! I just layered on lightweight jacket, headwarmer, and gloves.

There was only one other runner, and he actually was wrapping up his workout as I was starting mine. So I ended up having the entire schoolyard and track to myself! It was beautiful - the air was heavy with fog and mist and it felt clean.

I ran the first mile in 11:50. While a slow time for most, it was too fast for me right now. But I'm choosing not to get discouraged about this. I want to enjoy the entire journey of getting fit and getting back into running. After all, if I'm not enjoying it and feeding myself negative messages about where I'm at, what sort of motivation is that?

I decided to walk the next quarter mile. After regrouping, I started running again. The next half mile felt great, but then I started getting quite fatigued. At this point, I slowed WAYYYY down and was able to finish the next two miles without a walk break. For my last lap, I went as fast as I could hold for an entire lap - which turned out to be roughly a 10:00 pace. To cool down, I walked another quarter mile. All told, 3.5 miles in about 40 minutes (including the half mile spent walking).

I feel so good knowing I could totally complete that 5K now if I had to, but I'm glad I have a few months to hone on fitness and improve my time. Now, off to shower and take my kids to the library (our Saturday ritual!).

Photo credit Jacque Stengel

A day off

2009-12-18T09:34:00.001-08:00

After having worked out 4 days in a row, it's time for a much needed day off to let my body repair. Tomorrow I'm going to be doing my 3 mile run. I'll either tackle this on a treadmill or a track - I hope a track, weather permitting.

In order to ensure a good run, I'll be drinking my water and trying to put my feet up a bit. I'm going to treat this as if it was a long run (even though it's not). While that might sound silly, I know that in a few short months I'll be in the thick of marathon training and I want to gear up my mental muscles for what's ahead.

As I approach the end of my two weeks, I can say I'm feeling really, really good. A lot more energy, and a lot less bloated! Downing all the water has definitely been helpful, and I've also been trying to avoid sugary treats - especially late at night.

I'm currently camera-less, so I can't share a picture of this, but one of my favorite new "dessert treats" is frozen berries (defrosted slightly in the microwave) topped with 1/2 cup yogurt and 1/2 cup cottage cheese (both low fat). I made this yummy treat last night after my cardio session. To give it a little crunch, I topped it with a handful of Kashi's heart-to-heart cereal. Delicious!! Once I get my camera situation squared away, I'll be taking more pictures of my food creations and workouts.

I'll check back tomorrow after my run to let you know how it went.

Photo credit Stephen Eastop

Avoiding boredom on a longer cardio session

2009-12-17T20:22:00.000-08:00

So tonight my game plan was 40 minutes on the elliptical.

Why 40 minutes? In my experience, I just burn fat more when I add a couple longer sessions of cardio into my week. But this does not mean mindless walking on a treadmill or lazily pedaling a stationary bicycle. No sir. My time is valuable so I need to make each opportunity I have to workout count big.

Because it's easy to struggle with "cardio boredom" I thought I'd share with you my workout tonight.

First 7:30 minutes - forward elliptical movement
7:30- 10:00 - reverse cardio movement, hands on steady bars
10:00 - 11:30 - forward elliptical movement, bent at waist to target glutes (flat back, abs in!)
11:30 - 17:30 - forward elliptical movement
17:30 - 20:00 - reverse elliptical movement
20:00 - 21:30 - forward elliptical movement, bent at waist
21:30 - 27:30 - forward elliptical movement
27:30 - 30:00 - reverse elliptical movement
30:00 - 31:30 - forward elliptical movement, bent at waist
31:30 - 35:00 - up the intensity and level
35:00 - 37:30 - up the level and remove hands from bars - push hard
37:30 - 39:00 - reverse elliptical movement

39:00 - 40:00 - forward elliptical movement

Again, you do not want to just "go through the motions." Push yourself. If you're doing a treadmill workout, try jogging for a few minutes, hills for a few minutes, walking fast for a few minutes, working in some arm exercises, etc. Not only will this keep you physically challenged, it works to mentally break up the time - which is an essential skill for completing a marathon (our goal in the end, remember?)

You'll also notice I pumped up the intensity at the end of the workout. Why? I believe, as much as possible, making the second half and end of the workout harder than the beginning. It helps develop stamina and mental toughness. Don't fizzle out at the end, sprint hard.

Photo credit Jos van Galen

"You think you're gonna die..."

2009-12-16T21:02:00.000-08:00

Those were the words of Jillian Michaels at the end of Level 2 of her 30 Day Shred video.

And, she pretty much summed it up.

After doing Level 1 for a week, I thought, "what the heck? Let's give Level 2 a go." Oh. my. goodness. If Level 1 is Level 1, Level 2 feels like it should be Level 10.

Many of the exercises, including her cardio and ab moves were done in plank position (kind of like a modified push-up position), and boy do I realize I have some serious upper body work training to do. I ended up taking about 2 or 3 "5 second" breaks and I had to do one "10 second" break to splash my face with cold water so I didn't pass out.

While this was a hard workout, Micheals is absolutely right. If you're going to do a 20-minute workout, every second MUST count. There is no time to waste. And if you stuck with her workouts faithfully, I fail to see how one could NOT achieve results.

In fact, I feel her workouts are perfect for building the fitness and strength I want and I will most certainly use them to cross train with my running.

Just registered for a 5K

2009-12-16T11:01:00.000-08:00

I decided that prior to running a full marathon, I wanted to get back into racing mode. So I decided to register for the Tacoma St Patty's 5K on March 13. This will be perfect for me. I know I could run a 5K now if I had to, so I won't be worried about the distance.

I've only ever run one 5K - the Seattle St Patty's Dash back in 2000. It was my first race, and the one that hooked me. After that, I took a fondness for 10Ks and then quickly moved up from there.

If you've never run a race before, why not join me? If you live outside the Tacoma area, try and find a local 5K race for early spring. (A 5K is just over 3 miles for those that are wondering.) In the next few weeks, I'll be shoring up my half and full marathon plans. But for now my focus will be shaping up and getting in 5K race shape.

I'm very excited. This will be my first event since 2007!

Weigh in Monday: week two

2009-12-14T07:59:00.000-08:00

Each Monday morning first thing I'll hop on the scale to chart my progress.

Today I am at 158 pounds! Hooray! That is 4 pounds down from my high of 162 a week and a half ago. I'm sure glad to be below that 160-line.

My first weight loss goal will be to get to 149 pounds. Why 149 and not 150? Because I haven't gotten below 150 since the birth of my daughter a year and a half ago. So partly psychological I guess. At 149 I should also start fitting into some of my old clothes again. 149 will also be 13 pounds down and halfway to my goal of losing 26 pounds.

I'm not too worried about dropping it all quickly - in fact I'd rather I lose it at a rate of 1-2 pounds per week in order to keep it off for good. So to reach my first goal, I should be there anytime in the next 4.5 - 9 weeks. I hope maybe somewhere near the 6-week mark.

If you started this challenge with me, I'd love to have you "weigh in" on how you're doing!

Photo credit Gastin Thuavin

This week's workout plan & goals: 12/14

2009-12-13T20:35:00.000-08:00

So first let me report on my workouts last week. Overall, I did very well and am proud of myself! While I didn't stick with the plan exactly, I managed to workout 4 days and am getting ready to do a quick workout tonight. That's 5 out of 7 days working out and I don't remember the last time I did that!

I managed to make it to the gym only once this week. I did 30 minutes of cardio that evening blended with 30 minutes of strength training. The rest of my workouts have been the Jillian Michael's. I really, really love this workout! She combines cardio, abs, and strength in a short - but intense - session. I for sure will be incorporating it into my plans for the week.

Sadly, I did not do the 3 mile run I'd wanted to do today. My 18-month old daughter decided to wake up at 3:30 FOR THE DAY and I never truly recovered from the shock of 3 1/2 hours of sleep! No harm done though, I'll work it in to next week's schedule.

Here's the plan:

Monday: 40 minutes cardio
Tuesday: Jillian Michaels 30-day shred
Wednesday: 40 minutes cardio
Thursday: Jillian Michaels 30-day shred
Friday: OFF
Saturday: 3 mile run
Sunday: Jilliam Michaels 30-day shred

While this might seem a bit much, I truly am hoping to "jump start" things and get used to activity. I also created this based on my workouts from last week, which I was able to complete easier than I expected!

I haven't talked much at all about diet yet. I'm still trying to determine how to "tweak" things into healthy balance. I don't want to do anything crazy drastic for fear I won't be able to keep it up. So my plan at the moment is to begin to slowly incorporate long-lasting healthy eating habits into my diet.

Right now my focus has been to increase my water intake and replace my usual cereal breakfast with a protein choice.

Photo credit Sanja Gjenero

The courage to start

2009-12-12T16:21:00.000-08:00

If you follow my other blog, you know that I'm into saving money. So last week I decided to check out some books at my local library on marathoning for inspiration. Would you believe they were all checked out? Wow! They all made it in today and I've been having fun thumbing through them this afternoon.

In doing so, I came across a particular quote that I wanted to share with you today. Ready? Here it is:

"For all of us, the miracle isn't that we finish, the miracle is that we have the courage to start." - John "The Penguin" Bingham

I whole-heartedly agree with Bingham! Do you? What do you have to overcome in order to start your marathon journey?

For me, it was thinking that I wasn't athletic. I never participated in sports in high school and came to the conclusion that an athletic lifestyle just wasn't for me. I also had to overcome the idea that I couldn't complete such a distance - that I simply didn't have the endurance to do so. After all, marathons were for Olympians and super elite athletes, right?

After having run three marathons, I now believe differently. Let me tell you - I have seen many MANY different people finish that distance. Young, old, fit, overweight, and the list goes on. And let's not forget those in wheelchairs or prosthetics. I fully believe the marathon starts in the mind. You must first make a choice to believe you can do it. Does a marathon require physical training? Without a doubt. But if you lack the mental toughness, you will fizzle. All the bystanders cheering you on will not make you complete the race. Only you can convince yourself to continue on even when you are tired and ache to stop.

Many times I've heard folks say that they just can't do it. I fully believe most healthy people CAN run a marathon. But you must want it...you must have the "courage to start."

Photo credit Grizka Niewiadomski

New blogroll added

2009-12-10T16:57:00.000-08:00

My goal is to make this blog inspiring and informative. I've spent a little time digging up some blogs that seek to do the same thing for their readers. They have been added to my blogroll which you can now find at right.

I hope to add to it, so if you either write a fitness blog or know of one you think would provide value to my site, please let me know so I can review it. The blogs chosen will primarily focus on fitness, weight loss, and/or healthy eating.

It's about the little choices

2009-12-10T12:38:00.000-08:00

While it might sound rather simple, I think I've made an important discovery. Ready for this profound truth? Reaching a big goal requires making positive small choices over a period of time.

Here's the thing. It's so easy to miss a workout saying, "it's only one, it doesn't matter." But missing one makes it all the more easy to miss the next one and thus begins the snowball effect of excuses. Same thing with diet choices. How many times have I dismissed a cookie (or two...or three...) thinking "just today I'll indulge...it really won't matter."

If you want to tackle a goal such as weight loss or completing a marathon, you have to accept the fact that the goal must be tackled bit by bit. By making the right choices over a period of time. I believe that each of those small decisions matters. A lot. Over time, those small decisions help form positive habits and results beyond fitness. Don't underestimate the power of one "small" decision.

Lately I've also been pondering my mental outlook in achieving these goals. It's easy to focus on where I want to end up - thinner, fitter, and with a marathoner's medal around my neck. But what about the months leading up to that? Everything I must accomplish to get there? I think it needs to be enjoyable. I want to enjoy every step - and every mile - to the finish line. If I can't enjoy the journey, I know I will be more apt to quit.

I want to encourage you today to enjoy every day of your journey, too. Find ways to appreciate where you're at as you move to the finish line. I fully believe it's your mental fitness that guarantees your success in completing your marathon - not just your physical abilities.

So let's go make some positive choices today. Choose to workout 5 minutes longer than normal. Choose that glass of water over the juice. Choose to enjoy the process of becoming a fitter, stronger you.

Photo credit G & A Scholiers

"Before and After"...but not in a good way

2009-12-08T10:57:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I asked my friend Susan to take some pictures of me before I start looking really good from working out! (In fact, I even delayed working out yesterday until she took these pictures...silly, I know.) I've had a few friends recently tell me I don't look at all that bad, but I want to share some pictures of what I looked like at the peak of my training and where I'm starting out today.

So let's start with before. Unfortunately, ALL the pictures I have running my races were professionally taken by the race photographers, so I hesitate sharing those for copyright purposes. So these were taken from vacations.

This first picture was taken five years ago on a trip to Yellowstone with my husband. I had just started training for my second marathon (Seattle) and was so dedicated to my schedule, I kept up with my running on this vacation. I remember doing 8-mile runs in both Jackson and Cody.

This second before picture was taken in Hawaii about a couple weeks after finishing my first (and only to-date!) sprint-distance triathlon. I was also 8 weeks pregnant with our first. This sort of marks the end of my era being super fit. That was four years ago. And I weighed about 135.

So what do I look like today and where am I now? There you have it. While not terrible, you can tell I definitely DO NOT look like the fit gal in the previous pictures. Last week, I was at 162 pounds. Except for pregnancy, I've never weighed so much in my life. Let me tell you, it's not fun. Especially because I've enjoyed being slim and fit for most of my life.

I'm really not sharing these pictures to discourage myself, but to remind myself of my goal and how good I can look when I exercise and take care of myself. I also want to share my progress with you in pictures. I'll aim to take updated photos about once per month.

No time for pity parties here, it's time to workout baby!

Great little workout at home last night

2009-12-07T14:16:00.000-08:00

In thinking about jump starting my fitness goals, I decided to check out the Jillian Michael's 30-day Shred on Amazon for reviews. I'd heard a little about it, and thought it might be good to include over the next couple months at just building fitness.

Sure enough, it got rave reviews! Over 1500 reviewers and an average 4.5 stars. I was nearly poised to buy it, when I read on a forum - or somewhere Googling - who knows - that the Level 1 and 2 videos are actually On Demand for Comcast customers! So guess what? For a total cost of $0.00, I got to do a quick and good workout at home.

My husband was working last night, so I had the kids with me, but just made do. My 18-month old daughter decided it would be fun to crawl under me as I did the push-ups and then crawl on me while I did the abs. I think I burned a few extra calories as a result.

What I liked about the workout...it was simple, fast, and effective. She uses several muscle groups at a time, and combines cardio, strength and ab training. I also like that it only requires 3 or 5 pound weights, no fancy equipment. I didn't have weights handy, but just used soup cans (which of course, prompted my daughter to go back to the pantry and grab about 20 more cans of soup to "help" me!).

Why am I sharing this? Because for me, it's so easy to come up with excuses to not exercise. Not only was this a fast workout, it was free, and I didn't have to organize childcare or go to great lengths to do it. So...if you're a Comcast subscriber, go to On Demand, and then choose the Fitness option and I think you'll find the workouts under Celebrity Workouts and then Jillian Michaels.

If you're not a Comcast subscriber, you can still find it on Amazon for under $10. That would be $10 well spent to have a nice little workout available!

This week's workout plan & goals

2009-12-06T14:45:00.000-08:00

Each Sunday, I'll simply share with you my plan for the week. Remember, I am not in marathon training shape...yet. So December and January I'll spend the bulk of my time establishing a base fitness level.

These plans are meant to give you an idea of how to get started. Feel free to create your own schedule. The cardio will probably mostly be spent on an elliptical trainer this week, although I may also opt for a stationary bike one of the days. One weight session will be upper body, and one will be lower.

Monday: 30 minutes cardio, 30 minutes weight training
Tuesday: 30 minutes cardio
Wednesday: 30 minutes cardio, 30 minutes weight training

Thursday: 30 minutes cardio
Friday: OFF
Saturday: 3 mile run around a track (that's 12 times for most tracks)
Sunday: OFF

I also want to pay attention to my water intake this week. Sometimes I just plain forget to drink it!

What is everything thinking they'll try to do this week?

Photo credit Sanja Gjenero

My first marathon

2009-12-06T13:37:00.001-08:00

Here I am...nervously smiling minutes before running my first full-distance marathon in Vancouver, B.C. Excited to be meeting this lifetime goal head-on, but also wondering what exactly I'd gotten myself into.

Months before, I'd finished my first half-marathon in Seattle. It had been a feeling like no other crossing that finish line. And yet, I felt it was a goal half-finished. I felt I needed to complete the entire 26.2 distance, if at least just once.

My friend Kim also decided she wanted to work towards this goal and thus began our grueling training. Grueling, because we ran the same route over and over and over. It was mentally exhausting. I remember on days we had to run 16 miles and over, we'd have to run miles around a local school track to make up the distance. Boy, I do NOT recommend that!

Come race day, I was feeling pretty good. Our longest training run had been 20 miles and I was pretty comfortable with the idea of tacking on an extra 10K. The first 8 or so miles of the race I felt great, really strong.

I decided at that point to take one of the Power Gels Kim had given me just prior to the race. It wasn't one I'd had before, but since I'd had similar varieties during our training, I didn't think twice. Bad idea. Two miles later I began feeling sick...really sick to my stomach. I couldn't believe this was happening.

About halfway into the race things started to go downhill pretty quickly. I remember looking for medical personnel or racing staff for assistance. I didn't think I could finish. It was also about this point I had to slow down to walk. I was miserable! But because I never found anyone to assist me back to the finish line, I HAD to keep going. Over the next few miles I was able to alternate running a little with my walking. I was in beautiful Stanley Park, and the scenery definitely encouraged my spirits.

At mile 17, I passed the beautiful gazebo my husband had proposed to me in a few years before! It was another nice surprise and encouraged me to keep pressing on. I also remember making the decision to complete the race about this time. I had completed 17 miles, had trained for months, driven all the way up and taken time off work...I couldn't quit. I'd cross that finish line if I had to crawl.

About mile 20, I was really fatigued. Exhausted. I recall seeing volunteers handing out what looked to be lemon popsicles. Famished, I grabbed one and nearly popped it into my mouth when I told it was Vaseline. Great!

I was completely dragging near the end. I remember meeting a man from Mexico City and we encouraged each other towards the finish line. By the time I approached, the finish line had been moved along a sidewalk to start making way for traffic. No matter - it was still beautiful to cross that finish line! I was proud, relieved, and tired all at once. It was a wonderful rush of emotions. I finished in about 5:45. My next marathon I'd train smarter and shave about 35 minutes off this time.

As difficult as this race was, I still completed it and am glad I did it. It's funny how all the hours of training and racing and effort pay off the instant you cross that finish line and receive your finisher's medal. And then you say, "that was fun. When's the next race?"

A blog about marathoning, weight loss, and seeing your goals through

2009-12-05T10:32:00.000-08:00

In high school, I hated when we had to run even a mile. I wasn't fat by any stretch, just not very fit and certainly not convinced in my athletic abilities.

It wasn't until college I discovered that if I put my mind to it, I could run a few miles. Stepping out of my comfort zone, I entered my first 5K in 2000 - the St. Patty's Day Dash in Seattle. I instantly fell in love with the spirit of racing and the rush of the finish line.

Over the next few years I completed about a dozen 10Ks, a sprint-distance triathlon, three half marathons, and eventually went on to complete three full marathons. While I'm not a fast runner, I'm a determined runner. So I'm proud to say I've finished every race I've signed up for.

My last race was the Disney World marathon in 2007. While I finished, it was by far my most difficult race. I had had my first baby just 9 months prior via C-Section, was tired, and unaccustomed to the heat and humidity of running in Florida (I'm a Western Washington native). I was exhausted and decided to take a break from racing.

In 2008, I had my second baby, and once again, put on more weight than I intended to. I also found it has been more difficult to lose weight the second time around. Life as a stay-at-home mom of two has taken it's toll. In addition, I work from home as a freelance copywriter and blogger, so I'm frequently tired and short on time.

However, I can't stay where I'm at physically. I often feel sluggish. I miss getting the 'high" from a good, long run. I miss the excitement of gearing up for a race and the pride I feel after successfully completing a training cycle and race. And let's face it, I miss being able to wear some of my favorite pre-baby clothes!

So what am I proposing to do, exactly? Jump start my New Year's resolutions: lose the weight once and for all by training for, and completing my fourth marathon. I intend to lose 26 pounds - one for each mile of a marathon. I will be doing some shorter races leading up to the big one. I'm currently deciding on the marathon I will run, but it will most likely be late fall 2010.

I'm currently in the worst physical shape of my life, so this will mean having to attain a base level fitness before launching into marathon training. So I'm pretty well starting from scratch.

Would you like to join me in my adventures? I hope you will consider. Whether you've completed marathons before, or can't currently run a mile to save your life, we can do it together. If you have a few pounds to lose or just want to get fit, running is an excellent way to do it.

I'm going to share with you my very best ideas for training and racing, and I hope to inspire you with my own story along the way. While I'm generally pretty private about my weight - especially now - I'm willing to be open about how I'm doing and feeling in order to help you along the way.

Over the next few days, I'll share some pictures with you and my thoughts about forming a training schedule for the year ahead. In the meantime, I hope you'll consider joining me...1 pound at a time, 1 mile at a time.