Friday, December 17, 2010

Cold + Rain = Me No Run Outside


Whoa! I'm so proud of myself!
I can't believe that I'm posting for the second consecutive day.
It's even during the holidays!
I admit that I haven't been the best at posting
for the past 3 months, and it can mostly
be attributed to my inability to being as physically active
and/or running.
To quote Gaston's (Belle's other love interest) sidekick, I've been a little "down in the dumps."

I had a late night last night, and I was pretty tired when I woke up at 7 a.m. this morning.
However, I was still excited about the 5 miles I ran yesterday, and I didn't want to run a full 5 miles on Saturday.
So... I put on my running shoes and ran.
I decided to run only 2 miles today because 5 miles was a lot for me.
I hadn't run that much in one run since before my 10K back in August.
The second I started running it started pouring.
I think the weather knows when I'm going out for a run.
I can guarantee that it will be
cold
windy
cloudy
or will rain.
What's up with that?
It's like the cosmos are telling me not to run.
Anyway, against my doctor's advice, I went to our clubhouse and ran my 2 miles on the dreadmill.
I... was... so... bored.
I've been spoiled.
I've been running outside where the mountains are dusted with a little snow,
and don't let me forget about the occasional drivers that I sometimes have
to dodge because they're not paying attention to me and my bright red windbreaker running at them.
I really hope I didn't mess myself up again.
So far so good though.
Just the normal soreness.
I loved it when it rained on me in the summer just after a run.
Now that it's in the 40's, I'm not so much a fan of the wet stuff.
I might have to cave in and join the gym.
A few of the gyms here have indoor tracks, and I loved trying it out last summer.
That would mean that I could run in the afternoons or at night.

Do you have a gym membership?




Thursday, December 16, 2010

Ahhh-mazing


I'm officially done with my leg treatments, and I'm happy to say that I've been running a lot more.
Before my leg therapy, I was running about 5 miles a week with lots of pain.
Now I can run 9-13 miles a week with almost no pain.
I'm so very grateful to have found this sports injury specialist.
He basically diagnosed my problem- it's my pelvis.
He said that being pregnant with the twins really did a number on my stability,
and he has prescribed tons of pelvic strengthening exercises... FOR LIFE.
Yes, you read that right.
I need to do them for life.
Even when I had to stop running for a few weeks I noticed that I felt like I was limping while I was walking.
The doctor told me that I was tilting forward every time I walked, ran, and stood up.
That put a lot of pressure and weight on my calves, and my left calf couldn't take it.
Running that way really did it in for my left calf, and thus my injury.
He said this injury is very typical for a female mother who is also trying to lose weight by running.
I'm not 100% yet, but I'm getting there.
The temperature here ranges around 40-70 degrees throughout the week, and I love it!
Running in the cold air at first makes me want to just stay in bed in the mornings,
but I know that as soon as I warm up I will love it immediately.
I hope you've found an exercise that you love or at least can tolerate because it means you're getting closer to your goals.
I've definitely gained a few pounds from having to refrain from exercise and/or running these past 3 months, but I'm going to keep on it.
No more excuses!

Have a healthy and happy day!

Friday, October 29, 2010

Oh Boy


Okay, I confess. This week could've been better.
Last Monday I did some kickboxing for 30 minutes.
I know it has been a while since I've done that kind of workout,
but my legs and buns were killing me the very next day.
I think it was the million squats and kicks I did.
Anyway, I was super sore, and took a couple of days off.
How bad was that?
This leg injury has gotten me lazy.
You may be asking, "How is she able to do kickboxing with this leg injury?"
Well... I've actually be with little to no pain in my leg if I don't jump on it. Hence the no running/hard impact on it.
It stinks.
Did I mention that Twin Boy has had a tummy virus for a week now? I called the pediatrician, and his nurse said I just have to let it run its course. Fun. NOT!
I feel awful for the little guy.
I also feel like all I ever do is change diapers.
Anyway, I woke up this morning with a little more energy than usual.
I've been up at 3 a.m. for 3 days straight from Twin Boy walking up cranky.
I told my hubby last night that it's his turn. Hehe.
I woke up this morning, and pumped the tires up on my bike!
I couldn't believe it. My tires were in good shape.
I dusted the seat off, put on the gel padded seat, and got on.
It felt great to feel the wind brush against my hair and face.
Suddenly I didn't feel like a total lazy bum.
Let's talk about my bum. Oh my goodness. I quickly remembered why riding this bike wasn't a fave.
My bum started hurting right away. Maybe I'll get used to it? What do you think?
Anyway... I had fun, and I only went for 30 minutes- up hill most of the way. Ouch.
I know I'll be feeling it tomorrow.
I'm planning on going out for an hour tomorrow. I think it'll do me some good.

Have a super scary and fun Halloween!

Monday, October 25, 2010

More Waiting

Food Temptation of the Week:  Candy, what else? Oh yeah... maybe all the chili and cornbread you can eat at a cook-off we're going to on Saturday.

My "jog" went really well. I had very little to no pain at all on my left leg.
This made me very excited because it has been a while since I've felt good.
I was supposed to see my chiro on Wednesday, but the building they just moved into isn't ready.
I have to wait until next Monday. I'm hoping that he'll tell me that I can start running. Even running slowly and shorter distances in the beginning would be great. We've had some rain for almost a week now, but the air is cool. I'm loving the weather. This morning I took the twins out for a walk, but I don't know how much I'll be able to do that anymore. Twin Girl REFUSES to sit in the double jogging stroller. She finds a way to climb out of her 5-point seatbelt and stands. I then take her out in fear of her falling off while I'm pushing the stroller. Then she wants me to carry her. That doesn't work. It has been quite frustrating, and I feel very guilty for trying to get in some activity while they're in the stroller a few days a week. This is what I've decided to do to help me keep my fitness up and maybe lose these 10 pounds I've packed on since being re-injured in August.

Monday:  1 hour walk, 1 hour kickboxing
Tuesday:  1 hour kickboxing, 30 minutes upper body
Wednesday:  rest day
Thursday:  1 bike ride (if tires aren't flat) or 1 hour kickboxing, 30 minutes upper body
Friday:  1 hour bike ride or 1 hour kickboxing
Saturday: 1 hour bike ride or 1 hour kickboxing, 30 minutes upper body
Sunday:  rest day

Friday, October 15, 2010

From One to Another

People ask me, "Why do I run?."
I answer,
"Because it's addicting. It's addicting because the fat melts off your body VERY quickly.
It's addicting because
it clears my head,
the weather is getting cooler, and
it's my 'me time.'"
I just finished reading Tricia's latest post,
and I totally agree with her.
As runners, we put our bodies through a lot.
As I've told my new doc, I can block out 90% of the pain when I'm running.
He said, "That's great for a runner, but it isn't exactly safe."
We both laughed. He knew what I meant. He has been running for 30 years.
I've done all kinds of workouts, and running is definitely different.
I never thought I could do it.
I never even wanted to in the first place.
I just know that after all this therapy, I AM going to run again.
This time around, I have learned to take it slow.
Running is a race, but it's a race that I'm in charge of.
The time, personal records, speed, intensity, miles... they're up to me.

I hope you find your "love."

I "jog" two miles tomorrow and have to report the outcome with my doctor. I'll post about it next week.

Have a great weekend!

Thursday, October 14, 2010

You'd Better Work!

So I've been out of commission. I've been dealing with a painful leg problem since May, and I just started accepting that it's bothering me more than I was willing to admit. How much have I run since my race in August? Probably about 10 times. What was my longest run since then? Probably 4 miles. How often did I hurt after running? Probably every single time.

I went to my family physician.
He had X-rays taken.
No stress fractures.
He had an ultrasound done on my entire left leg.
No bloodclots. Thank goodness!
He sent me to a physical therapist.
At the first appointment, she said it was tendonitis.
At the second appointment, she said it was the small flexor muscles.
She couldn't show it to me on a diagram to help explain what was going on.
I lost faith in her. I stopped going.
I went back to my family physician to explain how frustrated I was.
He referred me to a chiropractor who specializes with athletes and runners.
This is what he told me.
It makes sense.
He also explained that my pelvis is totally messed up from having twins, and I need to strengthen it. My left arch is also much lower than my right, and it causes me to run basically on one leg. Crazy, but I actually understand all this.
The treatment he gave me was a specific and very painful massage (have 2 places where I have scar tissue), laser therapy, and taped up my foot.
He told me to continue my cardiovascular activity- bike, elliptical.
He told me to jog for two miles, take the tape off, and see how I feel.
For the first time since having this leg problem, I actually feel like I got answers.
I'm sorry for this long post, but getting down in writing has made me realize just how important it is for me to not lose this connection with you all. I haven't strayed from my "Get Healthy" journey. I've just been a little preoccupied.
Now time for some honesty.
I allowed this problem to get the best of me.
I have gained almost ten pounds.
I did try to get back to running after my first 10K even when it hurt.
However, I allowed the pain and not being able to continue with my regular running get to me emotionally.
I've been eating.
I've been told by my family physician and also my chiropractor to not lose the drive and enthusiam, and also fitness level by decreasing my food intake and continuing some type of cardio.
Today I am going out for a walk with my twins.

Thank you for your support and patience with me. I will be running again. I just have to be PATIENT.

Compartment syndrome (CS) is a serious condition that develops when pressure within blood vessels (perfusion pressure) drops lower than tissue pressure within a closed space (compartment) in the body. CS can be either acute or chronic and can be limb- or life- threatening condition.

A compartment is formed by muscle groups that contain nerves and blood vessels. The compartment is covered by a tough, inelastic membrane (fascia) that is not able to expand sufficiently when pressure increases within the space. The resulting syndrome is a painful condition that most often occurs following trauma, vascular injury, excessive activity, or vigorous exercise. CS most commonly occurs in the extremities such as in the arms, hands, feet, or legs, but may also occur in the buttocks or abdomen. Untreated, severe compartment syndrome can cause a series of physiologic events that may eventually lead to kidney (renal) failure and death.

Chronic compartment syndrome is most often caused by injury from vigorous exercise or overuse of a muscle group and develops most often in the legs. Although the syndrome stops when the offending activity stops, compartment pressure can stay elevated for hours afterward causing pain and numbness. This can present significant problems for endurance athletes such as runners or cyclists.  The athlete with chronic compartment syndrome may complain of leg pain that occurs while exercising and that is relieved when at rest; this pain may have been experienced for weeks or months.

Friday, October 8, 2010

Still Here

Hello out there! I know it seems like forever since I've posted, and I really am sorry.
I've been down (emotionally, physically) because of my leg pain.
It comes and goes. One day I think I'm totally cured and I run.
The following day bites me hard on my butt.
I'm so tired of being in pain.
I'm so close to just wrapping my leg and continue running with the pain (like I've been doing since May).
Okay, I'll listen to you and everyone here and not do that.
I'm so frustrated.
I just want to run regularly and maintain my weight loss.
It has been almost a month and a half since I've run regularly.
I've been running once or twice a week and then the pain kills me on  the following days.
I've cancelled my 10K race in November. I might do the 5K, but I'm not sure.
I have been referred to see a sports therapy/kinesiologist/chiropractor next week.
I've heard from my hubby's ultra marathoner friend that the doctor is amazing.
I can't wait to get started with my recovery.
To those of you who are total champs and keeping up with your "Get healthy" journeys, I'm proud of you.
To those of you who keep checking up on me, THANK YOU. I'm not giving up. I'm still here.
I'm not running right now, so I have cut down on my food intake.
I'm working with free weights for upper body and abs.

I'll see you all here again after my doctor visit. Thanks!

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Ultrasound

I'm heading to my doctor's office tomorrow for an ultrasound on my left leg. I've been praying that it isn't a bloodclot that's been giving me pain since May. I've also been praying that I get answers and something can be done to get me better. All this has really gotten me down, and I can't wait to start running on Saturday. Hopefully, I'll be running without pain!

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Two Weeks



I finally went back to my family physician about my left leg pain.
I've been suffering from this pain since May.
It comes and goes, but it never COMPLETELY goes away.
I've probably been "less than smart" about putting this visit off, but what can I say?
I'm a runner. I love to run. I am also stubborn.
They took X-rays and found no fractures.
I'm scheduled for an ultrasound next week to rule out a bloodclot.
I started physical therapy last Friday. The PT says it's the posterior tibial tendon that has been bothering me.



I've been doing exercises, stretches, and ice massages to my leg. For the first time ever, I'm feeling hopeful that I'll soon be running free from pain!

Have a happy and healthy week!

Friday, August 27, 2010

Traitor


I'm a traitor.
I'm sorry Asics, but it just felt right.
I purchased my first pair of running shoes (Asics 2150) on February 26, 2010- day after my birthday. LOL.
It has been six months and over 400 miles since then.
Runners need to replace their running shoes every 300-400 miles and even earlier if they run on rougher terrain.
How am I a traitor?
The new pair of running shoes I purchased was the Saucony Omni 8.
They just came out with the Omni 9's, but the 8's were a great fit for me.
I'm super excited to run this morning.
The owner of the store (Fleet Feet) who fitted me said he also suffers from Morton's Neuroma, but having the right orthotics and high stability shoes keeps him running without pain.
I really hope that's what I found in this new of pair of shoes.

I had an awesome 5 mile run on Tuesday morning (before I purchased the new shoes).
I'll be running 3.5 miles today.
I'll let you know how it goes.

Have a happy and healthy weekend!

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Thursday- Throw it Out Day


Today I cleaned.
I cleaned out the master closet, pantry, and first floor coat closet.
I cleaned them out for donations and trash.
It felt amazing!

We're going to be moving out of our wonderful home due to foreclosure in the next 5-6 months.
Yes, it's very upsetting.
We're leaving the only home my twins have known.
It's the home we took the twins to when they came from the hospital.
It's me and my husband's first home together.
I know we'll survive it.
Home is where we are as a family.

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Decide Everyday


I had a conversation with a friend of mine about commitment.
She has a sister who recently lost her husband through suicide.
She said her sister has to wake up every day and decide/commit to be happy.
By doing this she has endured and is succeeding in helping herself and her children to heal and cope with the loss of her husband.

I'm very blessed to not have to go through something as sad as this.
I need to look at my life and be thankful for so much.
If my friend's sister can wake up and commit to be happy and endure what she has been, then I certainly can wake up every morning and decide/commit myself to be happy and live healthy for that day.

Take baby steps.

Take it one day at a time.

It seems so simple, yet it's so difficult for so many of us.

What do you commit to today?

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Let It Ride


I'll be expermenting with crosstraining to run better nd faster for my 5K race in November.

Why?
Research shows that rest days (days when you take off activity altogether or do another physical activity other than running) can improve your running. You build and strengthen other muscles and therefore create a stronger body all around.

I'll be riding a stationary bike again. I'm sure my legs will thank me. I still haven't gotten anyone to ride my bike with me or teach me anyway. It's a 21 speed bike, and I never really learned how to play with the gears. You can laugh, it's okay.
It's too hot anyway to go outside and run/bike unless I'm willing to wake up at 4:30 a.m. again. I just have to wait out the heat another 2 or 3 weeks, I think.

Today's Fuel: grains for breakfast and lunch, grilled tilapia with mango salsa, sauteed green beans, 2 nectarines

Today's Activity: Insanity (first time)

Have a happy and healthy day!

Monday, August 23, 2010

A New Personal Best


I reluctantly woke up this morning at 6 a.m.
disoriented,
tired,
and forgetting what I needed to do.

Then I remembered.

Today is the first day of my recommittment.

I'm committing myself to

  • more whole grains

  • more vegetables

  • crosstraining

  • breathing, breathing, breathing
The "breathing" part is to conjure up more patience for the challenges that I'm facing about

  • being a stay-at-home-mom to 2 yo twins

  • maintaining my weight loss

  • getting leaner and stronger core
Despite how I woke up this morning, I actually had a great run! I ran a 9:43 pace! This is definitely a new personal best!

I did fartleks. That's right. That's not a "type-o."
Fartlek is a form of road running or cross country running in which the runner, usually solo, varies the pace significantly during the run. It is usually regarded as an advanced training technique, for the experienced runner who has been using interval training to develop speed and to raise the anaerobic threshold. However, the 'average' runner can also benefit from a simplified form of Fartlek training, to develop self-awareness and to introduce variety into the training program.
I felt like I could've ran another mile, but I am just coming back from injury. I need to pace myself.

Today's Fuel:  1 cup oj, whole grains, nectarine, turkey bacon-covered shrimp and grits, steamed broccoli
Today's Activities:  3.6 mile run, upper body with free weights

Have a happy and healthy day!

Saturday, August 21, 2010

Where Have I Been?

Hmmm...

Where have I been?
I've been hanging out at my mom's house since Thursday, and I've been running errands.
I'm so sorry that I haven't posted about my fabulous life. Oh yes... fabulous! I just finished cleaning up an ocean of Apple Jacks cereal and milk spilled on the twins' table and chairs, not to mention especially the floor. Oh yeah, let's not forget the overnight diapers I had to change!
Twin Boy has been sleeping successfully on his toddler bed while Twin Girl has been climbing out of her crib because of pure jealousy. The solution? A toddler bed for Twin Girl.
I bought one for Twin Girl on Thursday, and to my wonderful surprise one of my best girlfriends offered me her son's toddler bed. The only stipulation was that I hand it over to her sister once she starts having kids. That'll be at least a couple of years, since she just got married and isn't interested in getting pregnant anytime soon!
How lucky was that?

I ran 3.68 miles on Friday, and boy was it hard.
I've been recuperating and healing up my shin splints (by the way, they still hurt). I think I'm just being stubborn about going to my doc for help. I know he'll tell me to stop running for a couple of weeks and probably even send me to a PT. It was SUPER HOT on Friday. I looked at the forecast before I ran at 7 a.m., and it said it was 84 degrees. To some of you, that might be nice enough. However, for me... it was dreadful. It was also humid. I drank half my water (20 ounces) before I was at 2 miles. There wasn't a lot of shade, and the sun was unforgivable. I went home and saw just how hot it was. I got a serious tan on my arms and legs. I think my run would've been more enjoyable if I had gone earlier. Why did I go so late, you ask? Well, I woke up at 4:30 a.m. on Wednesday to do some church stuff- basically didn't get enough sleep. Then on Thursday, I woke up at 6 a.m. I didn't get to bed early enough the night before. I've learned through some reading and personal experiences that you have a better run when you get a good night's sleep two nights before. Believe me, it's true. So if you're super excited the night before your race and can't fall asleep... don't worry. It's the sleep two nights before that realy counts!

Yesterday I was bad and had white rice. I thought I was over it, but I'm not. I woke up this morning feeling bloated. I'm not used to eating it anymore. I really need to have it once a week or even less and just enjoy it without the guilt. Starting Monday I'll be recommitting myself by way of eating healthier and training.

I've posted my training before, but I've changed this up a little.

Monday:  3.5 mile run, upper body
Tuesday:  Insanity or bike ride and corework
Wednesday:  3.5 mile run, upper body
Thursday:  Insanity or bike ride and corework
Friday:  5 mile run, upper body

Have a happy and healthy weekend!

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Patience


Last Saturday, I was "high" off of my first 10K race.
It has been four days since that wonderful event, and I've been trying to be patient.
I'm "patiently" waiting for my body to recover.
I'm waiting for my left leg to heal from a really bad case of shin splints.
I've been praying that I'm not suffering from one or more stress fractures there.
On a scale of 1-10 (10 being labor pains from the twins)... it was an 8 on Sunday.
Today it's more like a 4. That's wonderfully better, but not 100% better.
I was planning on doing a 3 mile run on Thursday, but I'm going to wait until Friday and do one on Saturday too.
I think it'll be okay. I'll just wrap it.
I told you that I will be doing Insanity twice a week and running 3 miles 3 times a week (Insanity in between). I still plan on doing that.
I'm signing up for a 5K in November and February. They're only $25 per event, and you get a fun sweatshirt to go with them!

I have a confession.
For the past couple of days... I've been eating cereal twice a day- breakfast and lunch.
I've been eating two fruits and then a healthy dinner. Last night, I broiled some salmon and sauteed spinach. It was delish. 
I guess I'm tired of the same old tortillas and english muffins. The twins have really hit the "terrible two's." This means they're pretty frustrated because they know what they want at a time yet they don't exactly have the words to tell me or my hubby. It's very frustrating for all of us.
So... I have to practice patience.
Patience with the goal to lower my fat percentage.
Patience with the yucky stretch marks and extra skin on my belly from having twins.
Patience with the screaming and frustrated twin toddlers.
Patience with meal-planning.
Breathe, I say to myself.

How are you dealing with your "get healthy" journey?

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Race Day Pics!


Here are a few of the pics from my first race!

Monday, August 16, 2010

Woohoo!!!


I trained.
I ran.
I finished 6.2 miles.
I finished in 65 minutes and 12 seconds.
I completed the 10K ten minutes faster than I thought I would!

I am so humbled by the efforts of all the runners last Saturday.
The run wasn't easy.
It was warmer than it has been for the past two weeks.
There was a hill 1.5 miles long. It was fun going down. It was hard going up.

All I can say is that I am proud of myself.
I am a runner.

Thank you to my hubby, twins, mom, and sisters for loving me through my training and "get healthy" journey.

Thank you to my new friends (my readers) for your support and encouraging words.

Thank you to my friends who ran with me on my training runs.

I'm sorry that this post doesn't have any pictures from the race. My mom and hubby took pics, but they haven't uploaded them yet. I'll try to get them this week.

I am super sore from the race, so I'm taking a break from running until Thursday.

Today's Fuel:  grains, veggies, milk, soup, orange, apple, lean beef in soup
Today's Activity:  free weights for arms and upper body

I'm looking into doing a 5K in November and definitely one in February.
Having something to train for will be the key to maintainance.

I am loved and so very blessed.
I hope you're "kicking butt" with your journey.

I'll see you here again tomorrow.

Friday, August 13, 2010

Just Another MInute?

"Ask yourself: 'Can I give more?'. The answer is usually: 'Yes'."


-Paul Tergat, Kenyan professional marathoner
 
I ask myself this when I start feeling like I have no more to give to my run. The answer 99% of the time has been, "Yes."

Thursday, August 12, 2010

No Whining

"Running is a big question mark that's there each and every day. It asks you, 'Are you going to be a wimp or are you going to be strong today?'"


- Peter Maher, Canadian marathon runner

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Where are you at?

"In running, it doesn't matter whether you come in first, in the middle of the pack, or last. You can say, 'I have finished.' There is a lot of satisfaction in that."


-Fred Lebow, New York City Marathon co-founder

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

A Little Encouragment


Expect results each and every day!


Monday, August 9, 2010

Satisfied


I've learned to get over it.

My goal was to get to 120 pounds.
I didn't make it by the first Saturday of August 2010.
I weigh 125 pounds.
Did I ever think I would get to this point? Heck no.
Up until last January I thought I was destined to be fat, tired, and uninterested in living a healthier life.
I am now
healthier
and
happier.
I can now
run without passing out,
be more flexible, and
enjoy my life even more with my hubby and twins.
I am blessed
to have my family,
friends,
and you blog readers
to support me and cheer me on.
My first race is on Saturday.
I'm very excited and also nervous at the same time.

Monday
Fuel:  eating clean with a little extra carbs
Activity:  3.5 mile run outside, corework, legs

Tuesday
Fuel:  eating clean with a little extra carbs
Activity:  3.5 mile run outside, arms and upperbody with free weights

Wednesday
Fuel:  eating clean with a little extra carbs
Activity:  3.5 mile run outside, corework, legs

Thursday
Fuel:  eating clean with  a little extra carbs
Activity:  rest and at least 8 hours of sleep

Friday
Fuel:  spaghetti for lunch and dinner, fruits, veggies
Activity:  rest and at least 8 hours of sleep

Saturday
Fuel:  pineapple rings, oj, toast, steak and eggs breakfast, light lunch, celebratory dinner
Activity:  10K race

Have a happy and healthy day!

Friday, August 6, 2010

Kiss my Face

 

I've been so very blessed to be able to wake up so very early in the morning and run outside. The city lights are still on when I head out the door. The sun hasn't risen yet. Not even a tiny bit. We live above 95% of the city, and it's quite beautiful (urban view) in a different sense. I've been reading a lot of blogs lately, and most of those people live in more rural parts. I don't have the luxury of large fields or quiet solitude like them, but I do find some beauty in the city I live in. The temps have ranged from high 70's-low 90's. That's pretty wonderful compared to the 100's during the day.

Today I'm running my long run- 7 miles. It will be the last time I run this distance for a long time unless I decide to run another 10K in the future. I haven't decided just yet. I keep my shorter runs under 4 miles because my feet still hurt like heck when I hit 4 miles. I've been told by two doctors to stop running and take up something else, but I haven't found anything I like besides dancing. Maybe I should go into that. Hmm... There's a thought. It would have to be something I do at least 4 times a week.

I weigh myself for my "final weigh-in" tomorrow. I'm not really looking forward to it. I know I'm not down to 120 pounds. That's okay. I've come a very long way. I'm proud of my accomplishments.

*lost 38 pounds
*can run 8 miles without stopping
*run 5-6 times a week
*lift 10 pound weights for many reps
*became more flexible
*lost 21% body fat
*wear size 4 and/or small in clothing
*developed muscle tissue in legs
*toned arms
*have more energy to take care of twins
*less stressed in marriage

Friday's Fuel:  eating clean
Friday's Activity:  7 mile run

Saturday's Fuel:  eating clean, yummy dinner and dessert, experimenting with dried pineapple rings
Saturday's Activity:  rest

Sunday's Fuel:  eating clean, experimenting with dried pineapple rings
Sunday's Activity:  rest
















Thursday, August 5, 2010

Gym Etiquette


Warning!
This post has been written by an irritated and offended person.
Please forgive her rant.

Last week when I was running one of my short runs (3.5 miles) a new gym user came in to work out.
I saw her there the week before. She came in and hopped on the treadmill two feet away from mine. I was in the middle of my run, and it was very easy for me to see what she was doing. She started running. She started running at my pace. I was already at my faster pace. After running for two minutes, she slows to a pace that's too fast for walking and is bent over on to the console of the treadmill. I thought she was going to stumble on her feet and fall over. She was there for 10 minutes... hanging on to an obviously "too fast" setting on the treadmill. This has always bewildered me about some people at gyms. Why set the treadmill at that speed when it's so obvious it's too fast and you're inevitably going to fall and/or hurt yourself? So then I finish my run. I always spray the machine with disinfectant the gym provides and paper towels too. It was very clean when I gathered all of my belongings and got off of the machine. I started to stretch my legs and cool down. The minute I got off of the machine she quickly got off of hers (an identical machine like the treadmill I was on) and started disinfecting it and wiping it down AGAIN!!! I couldn't believe how rude she was! Was she for real? Yes, I was perspiring A LOT. That's what happens when you run for an extended amount of time, but I cleaned up after myself. After she did her "thorough" clean-up, she hopped on my machine and started running. Of course, she again was bent over and hung on to the machine and for her dear life. What I really wanted to do was unplug the stupid thing and see where she would land. Hehe. Okay... that was mean. Anyway... she could've waited five minutes and let me leave before she started her disinfection process. Oh, how irritated I was.

Gym Etiquette... some people have it and some people don't.

Today's Activity:  3.5 miles up that hill again, upper body with weights
Today's Fuel:  clean eating

I've decided that I'm going to start Insanity on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Core work on Tuesdays and Thursdays too.
I'll work with free weights on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
I'll only run 3.5 miles on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
I'll do something active and fun on Saturdays- walk with the twins, walk a mall, hike, etc.
This will begin on Monday, August 16. My 10K training will be done by then.

My stepkids leave tonight! I am so frieking happy!

Have a happy and healthy day! I'm not irritated anymore.

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Slippery Slope


According to recent studies, 95% of people will gain back the weight they lose within a few years, and 41% of those who attempt dieting will eventually gain back more weight than they lost.

Sad, isn't it?
I don't mean to be a "downer" today, but believe it or not, my mind has been racing with scary thoughts. I have 3 days until my "final" weigh-in. I can tell you right now that I probably won't make my goal weight by then. I'll be missing it by 5 pounds. I'm not moping about it. I've come a very long way from where I started. I'm grateful for the progress and life changes I made. I guess I've been a little worried about keeping it off.

It's a slippery slope. The slope I'm talking about is the "maintenance" portion of being at a healthy weight. I've never done it. The last time I lost 45 pounds I just met my husband, started eating what I wanted, and gradually gained 15 pounds in 10 months. It doesn't sound like a big deal, right? Well... after the wedding, I really started packing on the weight. He did too. Hehe. It was the dumb deep fryer we registered for! We were making homemade tortilla chips and roasted corn guacamole dips every weekend. Who wouldn't gain weight from that? I eventually gained back all the weight I had lost. Anyway, I've been contemplating just joining Weight Watchers to help me be more accountable to maintain it. What do you think? I could probably lose the last five pounds, make "lifetime goal," and not pay future fees if I keep myself from gaining less than 3 pounds a month. I think that's how it still works. I'm not really sure.

Yesterday's run was awesome. I have a friend who has been doing and teaching Krav Maga for a 1 1/2 years, and I outran her! I couldn't believe it either. Her training doesn't make her run crazy miles though.

Wonderful News:  My stepkids are leaving early! They're leaving a 1 1/2 weeks early. I am so freaking happy!

Today's Fuel:  clean eating
Today's Activity:  core work, legs, 3.5 miles up that hill again

Happy day!

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Insulin Resistant



I was watching Dr. Oz yesterday, and I got a better understanding as to why it is difficult for me to lose weight.

I have insulin resistance.

"Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body produces insulin but does not use it properly. Insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas, helps the body use glucose for energy. Glucose is a form of sugar that is the body’s main source of energy.

The body’s digestive system breaks food down into glucose, which then travels in the bloodstream to cells throughout the body. Glucose in the blood is called blood glucose, also known as blood sugar. As the blood glucose level rises after a meal, the pancreas releases insulin to help cells take in and use the glucose.
When people are insulin resistant, their muscle, fat, and liver cells do not respond properly to insulin. As a result, their bodies need more insulin to help glucose enter cells. The pancreas tries to keep up with this increased demand for insulin by producing more. Eventually, the pancreas fails to keep up with the body’s need for insulin. Excess glucose builds up in the bloodstream, setting the stage for diabetes. Many people with insulin resistance have high levels of both glucose and insulin circulating in their blood at the same time.
Insulin resistance increases the chance of developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Learning about insulin resistance is the first step toward making lifestyle changes that can help prevent diabetes and other health problems."   (National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse)
"Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, or PCOS, affects women of all ages and is one of the outcomes of women with insulin resistance. Women with PCOS often report gaining an unusual amount of weight over a short period of time. Most of those women carry the extra weight around their waist. This rapid weight gain is especially frustrating since it often occurs despite a diligent diet and exercise routine. Rapid weight gain in women with PCOS is linked to insulin resistance, a sustained high level of insulin in the bloodstream. Women with PCOS related weight gain are left wondering what they can do to lose weight or stop further weight gain. Effective solutions to this problem include Diabetes related drug therapy combined with a low carbohydrate diet and exercise program." (Suite101.com)

This is something I have to live with for the rest of my life. My diet and activity has changed dramatically since this past January, but watching my carbohydrates intake is something I must be deligent about.

Today's fuel:  clean eating
Today's Activity: 3.5 mile run outside, arms, upper body

Have a happy and healthy day!

Monday, August 2, 2010

No Change


No loss! I'm guessing that I'm building a lot of muscle between all the running and weights. My body fat percentage went down to 29% though. That's pretty cool to see, since I was at 50% body fat when I started this journey back in January 2010. Yes, that's right. it was at 50%! Insane, huh? I am proud of this accomplishment!

Last chance runs has officially begun!
I'll be running outside between 5-6 a.m. 4 times a week this week.
I'm reserving Friday's long run (7 miles) on the treadmill.
Next week, I'll be running Monday-Wednesday at 3.5 miles outside too.
I'll rest on Thursday and Friday, and carbo load.
I've decided to add an extra carbohydrate every day next week and also fill up on turkey spaghetti on Friday for lunch and dinner.
I'll probably gain a little bit of weight next week, but it will be worth it when I run my 10K without a whole lot of problems with endurance and stamina. All the carbs will be good for me. I'll also be experimenting with dried pineapple rings too.

I ran outside this morning, and my time was about 4 minutes slower than usual.
It could be that it was already warm at 6 a.m.
It could be the extra 4 pounds I was carrying in my CamelBak.
Four minutes isn't bothering me.
I'm proud of the run I had today because despite how warm it was getting, I didn't quit and start walking. I've told myself that if I'm going to sign up for a race (and pay for it!), I'm not going to walk any of it. I think that will just push me even harder to train better.
Everyone who runs has their own opinions about running and walking. This is just mine for me.

My twins aren't sleeping as well as they have been for most of the summer.
Twin Boy has been waking up at different hours of the night. Last night my hubby (thank goodness) went into the nursery to sleep with him in the big bed at 12 a.m.
The other night I was there at 3 a.m.
It's nice that we're taking turns. I would be a zombie if we didn't do that.
I've already told Hubby that he's on twins duty the Thursday and Friday before my race. I desperately need all that sleep and rest.

Today's Fuel: 
Kashi Crunch, fat free milk, turkey medallions with grilled veggies, 1 orange, 2 corn tortillas, cheddar cheese, 2 slices ham, 14 almonds

Today's Activity: 
3.5 mile run, core work, leg work

Have a happy and healthy day!

Friday, July 30, 2010

Five Pounds



What is body fat percentage?
It's the number that represents the percentage of your current weight that is made up of fat. Combined with your body weight and body mass index (BMI), it can provide an overall assessment of your risk for disease.

Essential Fat
We all need some fat in our bodies for them to function properly. For women, essential body fat should make up at a minimum 10 to 12 percent. However, this is not the healthiest percentage to be at, as it is too low.

Athletes
This category is for people that are very athletic, such as marathon runners and gymnasts. A healthy body fat for this category is 14 to 20 percent of the current weight.

Fitness
The next category is for those that are considered fit or in good physical shape. For this category, the percentage of body fat should fall between 21 and 24 percent.

Acceptable
If you fall in this category, your percentage of body fat is still OK, but bringing it down a bit would lower your risk for disease even more. For this category falls between 25 and 31 percentage of fat.

Obese
If your percentage of body fat is over 31 percent, you are considered obese and at a high risk for disease.

Significance
Knowing the percentage of body fat can be helpful when starting to work out. Women can gain up to 5 lbs. when they first start lifting weights. This can be discouraging, but what is happening is that they are dropping fat and gaining muscle. A normal scale will not show this progress.

If you'd like to learn more about body fat percentage, see eHow.com. The info here was taken from there. http://www.ehow.com/facts_4798778_healthy-body-fat-percentage-women.html#ixzz0vCPPhTU2

My body fat according to my scale (which is pretty accurate according to some experience in the past and testimonials from friends I know) is 30%. According to this article, I could lose a little bit more to be healthier.
 
Today's run went great! As usual, the balls of my feet started hurting at mile 4.
 
I hope you have a happy and healthy weekend.
 
 

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Counting Down the Days


Fourteen days to go until the stepkids are gone!
That means there are 15 days until my first 10K!

I can hardly wait for either event.

Yesterday I ran 3.5 miles. I feel guilty every time
I run these short runs.
Mainly I feel this way because my body is telling me I can run longer.
I have to remind myself that these are my short runs, and my long run (on Friday)
is soon to come. I burn about 450 calories every time I run 3.5 miles.
Have I told you how difficult it has been to lose weight at this point?
My body is fighting me every second.
I almost want to quit.
I don't mean to quit being healthy and working out.
What I mean by "quitting" is to quit anticipating when I hit 120 pounds.
What is 120 pounds anyway? I'm 125, as healthy as I've ever been in my life with the exception of shin splints and a sore knee. LOL.
Well... goals do change. I'm not holding my breath. Maybe this is something I just need to think about more. Right now I'm focusing on increasing my endurance and stamina to run well and finish the 10K in under 1 hour and ten minutes. Right now (in an air conditioned gym setting and on the treadmill at 1% incline) I can run 10:30 miles. That's ten minutes and 30 seconds per mile. Mathematically that's under 1 hour and ten minutes for the 10K. I'll be running outside early in the a.m. all week next week except for my long run. We're talking 5 a.m. runs. Yikes.

Fuel for Today:  Eating clean
Activity:  Kenpo P90X (first time doing it)


Have a happy and healthy day!

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Feeling It


I'm feeling it today.
The hill my friend and I ran up for a little over a mile is kicking my butt today. It was a beautiful day. I probably should say it was first a beautiful night because the sun hadn't risen yet when we started at 5 a.m. yesterday. When we were done running, we were greeted by a small amount of rain and a beautiful rainbow just above the mountain behind my house. It was breathtaking. I was also out of breath! LOL.
It was about 93 degrees when we started. That's probably how hot it will be when we run our first race in just a few weeks. My new Camelbak hydration belt worked awesome! It didn't budge, and it kept me hydrated. I'm so glad I bought it, and I have absolutely no "buyer's remorse" about paying $40 for it. I don't shop for myself a whole lot, and it was a necessary purchase if I want to continue being active outdoors. So today, Ibuprofen is my friend.

We had some drama here last night with my hubby and his kids. Actually... if you haven't noticed... I haven't really been posting much about the stepkids. I've purposely done that, so they didn't take over my ENTIRE life. They stress me out as it is, and this place is one of the few "safe" places for me to be me, vent, and focus on the good things. Well, like I said, there was drama. There's been drama every night (meaning something happened with one or both of the stepkids and me and hubby were arguing and fighting about it all night) for four consecutive nights. I often think his stepkids will be the end of our marriage. Last night's fight was bad. I was physically ill from talking, fighting, and arguing every night for four nights. I told him I wasn't going to talk to him about them anymore unless it concerns the twins. I told him, "I'm done." There are 17 days until they leave. I plan to not spend much time with them for those 17 days. I think we'll all be happier then.

I was so upset last night, that I slept in the twins' room, and didn't run this morning. I haven't missed a run except for the two times I got shin splints and my knee got really swollen. I'm not letting that upset me because I'm running tonight once the babies are in bed. I absolutely refuse to spend time with my husband and HIS kids right now. That might sound petty, but I need a break from them.

Today's Fuel:  Eating clean even though my stress level is asking for me to snack!
Today's Activity:  3.5 mile run at night, upper body with weights

I hope you're having a happier and healthier day than I am!

Monday, July 26, 2010

19 More Days until Race Day

There are 19 more days until my very first 10K race.
It's my very first race ever.
I am nervous, but I'm also very excited.
I've been training for it since April.

The only thing that really worries is me is the heat.
They're going to have hydration stations there, but I also plan on bringing this hydration belt.
I finally bought a Camelbak.
This one attaches to your waist.
I'll be filling it about halfway just so it doesn't weigh me down too much.
I don't like running with a lot of stuff on me.

I weighed myself on Saturday, and I lost half a pound.
I know that's not a lot, but it's finally going down again.
4.5 pounds to go!

Monday
Fuel:  Eating clean.
Activity:  3.5 miles outside

Have a happy and healthy day!

Friday, July 23, 2010

Thank You!


Sometimes I wonder if anyone besides two people are reading my posts.
In the beginning when I started this "Get Healthy Journey" and this blog,
I mainly did it
to help myself be accountable
with my food
and
with activity.
Let's be honest here.
Blogging is free. The only investment is time.
You have to spend time out of your life to write something and post it.
I didn't want to spend any money by going to WW meetings and also buying
"special food." Let's face it. My family has been cutting down on expenses for the past 2 years.
That's one of the costs of being a stay-at-home mommy to twins.

By losing at least 30 pounds so far, I've proven a few things to MYSELF.
I stress "myself" because everyone's "Get Healthy" journey is different. It's personal.
I've proven that
*I don't have to live with obesity.
*I can change what I don't like about my life.
*I can be active.
*I can control what I put in my mouth.
*I don't need an extra helping of something.
*I can run and not faint.
*I can love myself.
*I can do all this without spending a whole lot of money.
*I can't do it alone. You've been there along with my family and friends to love and support me.

There is still a lot of work to do. It doesn't stop when I reach my weight goal... whenever that will be.
I have to maintain.

I still blog to be accountable about food and activity, but I also blog for other reasons.
I blog in hopes of helping someone out there reach their "Get Healthy" goals.
I blog in hopes that I inspire someone to start.
I blog in hopes that I teach others who don't have the same weight issues learn to be understanding of how difficult it really is to get started, lose it, and maintain it.
So if you're reading this, I thank you.
Thank you for taking the time to read my posts.
Thank you for supporting me.

Friday
Fuel:  Eating clean.
Activity:  3.5 miles, leg work, core work

Saturday
Fuel:  Eating clean during the day, and indulging in a nice dinner and dessert at night.
Activity:  rest day

Sunday
Fuel:  Eating clean.
Activity:  rest day

I weigh myself tomorrow, and I'll post any changes on Monday. I'd be happy if I lost even 1/2 a pound.

Have a happy and healthy weekend!

Thursday, July 22, 2010

When it Becomes an Obsession


I've been watching "Obsessed" on A&E.
My heart really goes out to the 3.3 million people who suffer from such debilitating problems.

The last episode I saw featured a woman who was obsessed about exercising every day.
The only time she missed a day of working out has been when she was giving birth to her children.
She was on the treadmill at least 3 hours a day.
She would spend another 9 hours doing sit-ups and other exercises.
She would only eat once a day- at 2 a.m.
She never ate with her family.
The woman was matched up with a therapist who used
cognitive therapy as well as exposure therapy.
The therapist weaned her from the treadmill and gradually had her eat and spend
time with her family.
At the end of the show, she seemed to have gotten better.

I can very easily see how someone could get obsessed with working out.
I looked at my journey here.
I've been battling being obese for at least 5 years.
I woke up one day last January and decided that I couldn't be that way anymore.
I wasn't living.
I wasn't taking care of myself.
I wasn't loving myself.
I was cutting down the life that I wanted with my husband and twins.
I started working out 5-6 days a week.
I started eating less and clean.
I've joked about how I can handle only one obsession at a time.
Living healthier is that obsession.
Watching that show has made me think about how I've been living my life these past seven months.
I'm not obsessed.
I do work out about 1.5-2 hours a day.
I only work out early in the morning when the twins are still asleep and during their naps.
I run 5-6 days a week.
I work on core, legs, and arms 5-6 days a week.
I've learned to balance making a loving home with my husband and twins.

Getting to this "balanced" stage wasn't easy.
It was hard to figure out WHEN I was going to work out.
It was hard to figure out WHEN I could indulge a little.
I guess that's why we call this a "battle."
It's a battle with food.
It's a battle with exercise.
It's a battle with OURSELVES.

I really hope that I'm helping at least one person out there with my journey.
I admire those bloggers who are so faithful in writing their posts.
I admire those people who keep on fighting.

Today's Food
Eating clean.

Today's Activity
7 miles
arms with free weights

Have a happy and healthy day!