Thursday Tidbits

Here's a fun + random post, because you guys have said you like these more than other things. Guess what! Me too!

#1: I'm on Snapchat now at neverhomemaker. I don't know if that's a good thing or not. Today I'm talking a bit about our latest Aldi haul.

#2: And speaking of Aldi -- did you know they have a new line of baby products?


I picked a couple things up to try the last time I was there. I'll write more about our diapering situation soon, but we do disposables at night and cloth during the day. These diapers work wonderfully, and they're soft. Eloise hasn't had any rashes or issues with them. The wipes work just as well as my other kinds, too. I'm converted, because it's like $4.99 for 50 size one diapers!

#3: Other stuff I'm loving for baby lately:

• Nursing scarf + seat cover
• Zutano fleece booties
• Soft cloth books for playing

#4: I got my volcanic rose leggings, and it's LOVE. They're my favorite yet. Stephen even complimented me on them. Might hop back on to order the broken dream catcher ones sometime soon.

Seriously. $12.

WHAT.


#5: New workout: Kettlebell upper body. I love this one. Simple + effective. I do most of it with my 10-pound kettlebell and I just got a 15-pound kettlebell yesterday. For some of the harder exercises, I use 5-pound dumbbells. I've done this video three times, and I'm already enjoying more toned arms.



#6: And speaking of workouts -- I ran 8 miles last weekend!


I've been running about 20 miles a week at between 8-10 minute pace. I haven't yet signed up for that November 10-miler race, and I might not. What I've learned in my long journey with running is that I don't need a medal to love the sport. In fact, I'd rather run when I want, when I feel like it, for however long I want, and at whatever pace feels good. And often that's slow and short . . . but sometimes it's fast and far.

That's all from me today. Off to finish some freelancing assignments!

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Body After Baby // Week 6

You guys! I am on the highest of highs right now. I just finished my first fast workout in what seems like forever. I had given up on hard running when I was experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss. So, I'd say that was a year and a half ago? I thought somehow running with much effort had something to do with all that. I mean, I was always looking for something to blame (and my doctor assures me the running had nothing to do with it).

EXERCISE

Fast forward to now -- 6 weeks postpartum -- and I woke up feeling great. But I didn't feel like doing my usual 3-mile slog through the neighborhood. It's hot, sunny, and I'm kind of bored with it and need to get back to my old routes. Today's solution: You might remember that we bought a treadmill this year. I looked up some interval workouts and found this one on PopSugar.

I feel like it's the perfect mix of gentle and challenging to get back into the swing of things. (Somehow I didn't follow it exactly and did a lot more of the 7-8 MPH -- oops!)

FOOD

Going dairy free has had an interesting side effect. I'm only a couple days in, but the food choices I've been making overall have been much healthier. I've been consuming a lot more protein and less carbs. I've been choosing more fruits and veggies and shunning more desserts.

I will probably break from the dairy free just briefly this weekend when we visit my parents in Wellsboro. It's my birthday, and I would like to indulge in some cake and home treats I only get on occasion. (There this food truck that has THE BEST grilled cheese!)


I do wonder, though, for those of you nursing mamas who went without dairy: Did you notice a change in your supply? I feel like I've had slightly less milk the last few days. But I realize it might also have to do with reaching 6 weeks, which is when things regulate a bit, right? I'm trying to add more fats to my diet regardless. An avocado a day . . . :)

CONFIDENCE

My body hasn't changed much in the last several weeks, but I don't really mind it much. It took a long time to get pregnant, a long time to cook baby, and it'll take a long time to reach "normal" again. And I know from having Ada that "normal" will be different anyway. I actually felt like I got fitter in some ways after I had her despite not having my body look like it did when I was younger.


Exercising and eating well is making me feel so great. We've been sleeping better, too. Eloise had been doing some 5-6 hour sleeping stretches while on vacation. Since we've returned it's been more like 4 -- but it's all good.

So, that's week 6 in my postpartum fitness and body journey. I'll be back tomorrow with reflections from vacation (as well as some essentials for taking a newborn to the beach).

Happy Wednesday!

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How I’m Moving These Days

A couple notes on fitness today. I’ve started a loose 10K training plan. I don’t have a race in mind, but after months of not running on any sort of plan, I was craving some structure. I’m still trying to balance TTC with running and exercise. Though I ran a 12-miler the day before getting my positive pregnancy test with Ada, the trouble we’ve having this time around has me set on a more conservative approach.

// RUNNING

Yes. I’m frustrated with it. And many of you have told me I don’t need to worry about mileage while TTC. I’m doing what I feel is right for me and my body. Unfortunately, there’s no one-size approach. What works for one person (or one pregnancy) isn’t necessarily the best choice for another.

Here’s the plan I’m currently following. I’m hoping to find some type of 10K to do in the fall just for fun. Though I am trying to do some speed one day a week, that’s not really my goal with this adventure. It’s more about getting myself on a plan and gaining motivation.

Onto week two!


I ran my first speed workout in what felt like years last week. I did a one mile warmup, then two timed miles -- the first at 7:32, the next at 7:25 -- and then a cool down. I’m not in peak shape, but I was incredibly surprised that I’ve retained any speed at all! Definitely encouraging. Just goes to show that consistent training over the years pays off, even if you have a lapse in serious training.

For the cross-training, I’ve been doing Barre3 workouts online.

// YOGA

I’ve also committed myself to yoga. I used to practice quite regularly. I’d take two classes a week and spend time on my mat at home. I fell (way!) out of this habit years ago. I was writing an article on yoga the other day, and I came across Yoga with Adriene on YouTube. I’ve been hooked on her classes ever since.

I even started the 30-Day Yoga Challenge.


I also took my first studio yoga class in years yesterday. It was an easy flow, and I think I’ll be returning to take at least one class per week once Ada starts preschool. I used to treat yoga like a major athletic event. I always wanted to feel the burn. These days? I’m enjoying the stress-relieving aspect and the stretching.

Feels gooooooooooooooooood!

How are you moving these days?

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Do you Tabata?

It was over 70 degrees on Saturday. I walked around the yard barefoot and drank a huge glass of wine while we cooked veggies and flatbread on the grill. “Ahhhhhh," I thought. "Spring has finally arrived!” And then today I woke up to the sound of wind. I immediately discovered grey skies spitting out fat snowflakes. My heart dropped in my chest and I had to go dig out my running tights, hat, and vest.

But I did it!

Today’s workout:

• 1 mile stroller run. The BOB was only full for .5 mile. Then I dropped Ada off an got a 33-pound break on the way home. 
• 10 minutes body weight + kettlebell moves (pushups, burpees, planks, squats, mountain climbers, swings, etc.)
• 1 mile interval run
• 10 minutes body weight + kettlebell
• 1 mile all-out run

BOOM! I haven’t exercised at a high intensity in quite some time, so it felt both grueling and amazing. I’m pretty sore right now, and I’d like to try and do something like this at least once a week. I need to learn or at least write down some more body weight exercises so I don’t just keep doing burpees when my mind blanks.

What are you favorites?

// TABATA

I’m really intrigued by this whole Tabata thing, you guys. I know some of you have commented on posts in the past when I’ve asked about different at-home workouts to try . . . and I definitely stored the word in the way, way back of my mind. I’ve been researching an article on fitness videos, and it finally clicked today.

Tabata sounds, well, awesome.

For those of you unfamiliar, this method of working out was created by Japanese scientist Dr. Izumi Tabata and a team of researchers. The gist is that you do high intensity moves in a 10/20 format. So, 10 seconds of rest with 20 seconds of work for eight cycles, which equals just four minutes total. Tabata works on both aerobic and anaerobic systems with quite a powerful punch in such a short time. You can read more about it here.

In addition to all the miles I slog, I know I need to get more intense bursts of activity and strength into my routine. (Which is why I mixed stuff up today.) The moves you do for Tabata workouts are really just body weight stuff. Pushups, planks, squats, kettlebells, etc. Anything and everything that works large muscle groups. I just love that it ’s SHORT. (Of course, you can string them together as well.)

Anyway, here’s a great example:



Do you Tabata?

Any good videos or workouts to share?

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Thoughts on Barre (So Far)

On Monday we had around 10 inches of snow. A couple days later another 3 inches. And last night another 2 or 3 more. I hear another storm is in the forecast for early next week. We’ve also had more negative windchill days. None of this is surprising. Still, (good) running without a gym membership has been elusive, and not for lack of trying.

Our new neighborhood is great, but people don’t love shoveling their sidewalks. Many streets don’t even have sidewalks, really, which leaves running in the street often as the sun is setting. I do try to make it to a local path a few times a week, but with Ada’s preschool often closed due to the weather, well, you see the excuses piling up. Running in the winter is hard. Some years I trudge through better than others. This year, I think I get a B+.

Along with cycling at home and doing some cross-country skiing, I’ve been doing Barre -- and I thought I’d give you a quick update on how I’m liking it so far. No. Loving it. My trial with Barre 3 Online ended earlier this week, and I decided to keep it up at least over the next month or two. I’m majorly on the bandwagon right now. We’ll see how long it lasts, but since I’m seeing some results, I’d like to keep the good stuff going.

// I don’t know if I’ve lost any weight doing Barre. My instincts are telling me no, but I’ll find out today at my fertility appointment. At the same time, I’m noticeably slimmer even after a couple weeks. My jeans are slightly loose. My butt is lifted -- no joke -- and my thighs are leaner. It’s not too dramatic from an outward view -- but I can tell a huge difference.

// My flexibility is back again. With so many yoga and stretching movies incorporated into the workouts, I’ve been taking the time to get limber again. I used to do lots of yoga and sort of took my natural flexibility for granted. Now I want to keep it up because it feels so good.

// My strength is, like, whoa. I haven’t done any major strength training consistently -- bodyweight or otherwise -- in a long while. Accordingly, I’ve been a little weak compared to previous years. I can already see some gains in this area by being able to hold certain poses much longer. And generally feeling toned. Even using 2 pound weights has my arms feeling it the next day, but without extreme soreness.

// After completing the workouts, I feel energized, and I can’t always say that for running. I think it has something to do with impact. I like having something in my routine that challenges me without jarring me. Not that my running form is bad, but sometimes it’s just rough on the body to do 5 or 6 days a week. The tiny motions in Barre are surprisingly difficult . . . but at the same time restorative, if that makes any sense. In the middle of a “class” I feel like I want to curse, yet at the end, I want to give someone a hug.

// I’ve also been happy to find a workout I think I could keep up when I’m lucky enough to get pregnant again. I’ve already written in numerous posts how I’ll cool it on the running the next time around. No half marathon races for me. But keeping fit and active is a huge priority, as I think it helped me a lot mentally and physically during my last pregnancy. Some of the moves in Barre remind me a lot of my favorite prenatal workout by Summer Sanders.

// I do wish we had a Barre studio or class in the area. I’m getting slightly tired of doing the same workouts again and again (though I’m excited to try a new runner workout that was posted recently). I also have enjoyed group fitness classes in the past for the social aspect, and I’m more alone than ever talking to my TV during nap time. But online workouts are undeniably convenient. No excuses, right?

So, at this point I’d highly recommend at least trying Barre if you’re interested. I have no affiliation with the studio or incentive to share my feelings. It’s just something that’s helping me get through winter this year.

If you have questions, I’d be happy to answer!

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Trying Barre Classes Online

I’ve been searching for something new and different to do fitness-wise besides running. We looked at some gyms over the weekend, but the only ones I would want to join are the ones with pools. My favorite cross-training is my slow, sad breaststroke -- by far. Too bad those gyms are expensive. And most of them are booked up with aqua classes for the older crowd during the hours when I could typically go (or when childcare is offered, preschool is happening, etc.).

Anyway, I do random workouts on Fitness Blender from time to time. Mostly yoga, body weight stuff, and barre. After mulling over whether or not I should delve into studio yoga classes (which are also expensive, though definitely worth it), I decided I’d try doing something online for a change. When I get a chance to workout besides my usual running, it’s either in the early morning, nap time, or after Ada’s gone to bed for the night. I don’t necessarily feel like dragging myself across town by that point.

So, today I signed up for a Free 15-Day Trial of Barre3 (check it out -- I’m not affiliated with this group -- they don’t even have studios in my area). I just completed a total body 30 minute workout during Ada’s nap and got a needed boost of energy. Since I’ve tried several rogue barre workouts in the past, I knew a bit of what to expect. Lots of tiny movements with tons of burn. I like how the workout incorporates some yoga, ballet, and Pilates movements, too. All the stuff I usually ignore.

There are several offerings of this type that you can find online for free and subscription prices. Here’s a comprehensive comparison I found with Bar Method and Barre3, if you’re interested in more specifics (because I’m still super new to it all). Of the two, I chose Barre3 because I’ve read reviews from bloggers like Emily or heard about it from friends + family who live near studios and regularly take classes. Oh, yeah. And also because it’s $15/month versus $35.

Right now my goal is to do 3-5 barre workouts a week (they have ones from 10 minutes to 60 minutes) along with 20 miles of running. I’m informally doing the 28-day challenge, too, since I like the idea of checking boxes to feel some accomplishment in my day. Plus, being prompted to do certain workouts is helpful when you’re trying to guide yourself from home. I am also looking forward to checking out a few new recipes to shake me out of this carb-craziness + funk I’ve been in.

Have you tried online workout subscriptions? 

I wrote a fun article about them for Wise Bread a couple months back, so you should certainly read it if you’re interested. They're a nice, flexible option if you don’t love driving to the gym or perhaps don’t have time during traditional hours to get your sweat on. I know a lot of people really like Daily Burn and even Gaiam TV, so I’d love to hear more about those if you subscribe!

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15-Minute Indoor Workout

Here we are again, January. And we’re in the midst of another arctic blast with wind chills colder than -20 degrees F. I actually did go jogging yesterday afternoon before the worst of it hit. By now, I know how to dress. A pair of tights under sweatpants. Two layers of hoodies with a vest. Fleece-lined socks. Hat, gloves, and hood. But the cold still infiltrates so what was going to be a four mile workout turned into 3.6, and I couldn’t make myself finish in the direct wind!

Today? I’m staying inside and doing this simple, 4-move workout that we did with my BIL and SIL over Christmas break. It’s simple enough to perform anywhere with zero equipment. Yet, you’ll definitely work up quite a sweat.

Here’s how to perform each move.



If you like exercises like these, check out this 30-Minute Indoor Workout I posted around this time last year. It’s got some of these same moves, just in a different sequence and for longer duration. And if you’re lucky enough to hit the treadmill today, here are 4 Fun and Fast Treadmill Workouts to help beat belt boredom.

Those of you in the freeze -- how are you exercising today?

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Must Love Hills

With moving to a new house (tour here!), we've also moved to a whole new neighborhood. And, well, the running is tough. Tougher than I expected. I thought the Laurel Festival 10K was bad with all its mountains and valleys, but it seems like I'd be in great shape next year if I chose to do it again.

At our old place, I could run up to 13 (or more!) miles with few inclines to break my stride. In fact, to compare to everything I'll show you in a moment -- here's the elevation map for my all-time favorite 4-miler that I used to run at least a couple times a week.


Now? I used MapMyRun to check out some of the routes I've tackled or plan to try soon.

And . . .


OK. So, these hills are still nothing compared to running in Wellsboro (and other places, I'm sure). I mapped out one of the long runs I did last month when I was visiting my parents and was sort of shocked with what I discovered. So, I guess it could be worse.


Anyway, after playing around with different paths, I was able to map out a relatively flat 10 miler for my next long run. The only problems: It's not in the nicest area. Not dangerous, but just sort of urban decay. And it's out-and-back, and I don't love being far away from home during the summer months with heat and all.

But this looks better, doesn't it?


Not really.

But if you examine all those jigs and jags carefully, you see that the elevation only toggles between 870 and 885 feet or something like that. This image is a tad deceiving. So, I'm feeling hopeful I'll get some flat ground and finish my run without too much peril.

Runners who live in hilly areas: WHAT DO YOU DO!? 

I am getting the idea that I just need to shut up and run, and that eventually my body will adjust. I guess I'm thinking ahead to my next pregnancy. I've already written at length about what I want to change about running the next time around. Not entirely sure if I should run all these hills on the regular. Will I be doomed for the treadmill?

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Hit the Hills // A Workout

Thanks for all your congrats on my race win! Since my kitchen is mostly packed up and I've been eating off paper plates, there's not much in the food department to talk about now. Only 5 more days, though! Anyway, several of you have asked about my training, so I thought that'd be a fun topic for today.

// THE CLIMB

Over the past year, I've made some solid gains in my race paces at all distances. I haven't done much (if any, really) speedwork, though. So, I wanted to share my "secret weapon" workout with you guys today because it's one that truly works. It will make those typical "hilly courses" we all complain about feel like a cake-walk, too!

But first: On every training run, I try to do at least one climb. If it's not a long hill, I try to find a steep one and go as fast as I can. If it's a long hill, I try to just power up at whatever pace can carry me there. But I do this every single run at least once during the run. If you live in a flat area, try running up man-made inclines (like bridges) or visiting the treadmill more often.

Then once a week I try to do hill repeats.

This workout, which I did as part of my half marathon training, has the potential to be as long as 10 miles. I know. That sounds a bit nuts. I usually just do 10 repeats for a total of 7 miles. However, when I was starting out, I'd do 6-8 repeats and even shorten the warmup to just a half mile warmup/cooldown. You can also choose a shorter hill. Anything over .10 of a mile is better than nothing!

Basically, you can get the idea to modify according to your race distance. And you can even choose to simply follow the general idea of incorporating regular HILL REPEATS into your training. Stephen also favored hills versus speed for his training this year and is seeing similar gains in his race times. Something must be working!

Otherwise, I don't do "workouts" necessarily. I run the rest of my mileage at an easy pace. If on a short run I feel particularly strong, I'll choose to go faster that day. And I always try to get a long run of 8-10 miles in on the weekend despite where I am in a training cycle.

How do you work to get faster? Do you like doing repeats at the track or preferring heading for the hills? Or are you a beast at both!

For more running tips, be sure to check out our RUNNING PAGE full of information about workouts, races, nutrition, gear, and much more. We haven't written much in recent years -- but I'm hoping to add to this area on the site as time goes on.

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Deep Freeze + Indoor [Zero Equipment] Workout

As I type up this post, the winds are kicking up and the temperatures are plummeting. This winter has been brutal, and I've been running through the worst of it (here's how!). When the words "danger" and "frostbite" enter the forecast, I don't mess around. My hardcore winter running facade melts and I resign myself to some indoor sweat sessions.

Brrrrrrrr!

// AT-HOME GYM EQUIPMENT

Working out at home has become even more important this year since we quit our gym membership to save money toward potentially buying another vehicle. We no longer have the option to warm up the car, pack some shorts and a tank, and head to the gym to hit the treadmill or weights.

Thankfully, we've amassed quite a collection of (simple) workout equipment over the years, including:

• 10 lb Kettlebell
• 30 lb Kettlebell
• 5 lb Hand Weights
• 2 lb Hand Weights
• BOSU Ball
• Jump Rope
• Doorway Pullup Bar
• Braided Resistance Band
• Yoga Mat

We also have a Spinning Bike, which I've been using often, and Treadmill, that we got second hand. I don't like running indoors because it aggravates my IT-band, so if I'm not getting in some cardio on the bike -- I'm usually doing basic kettlebell swings.

Stephen, on the other hand, has quite an indoor routine he does to supplement his running, and I've asked him to do a writeup on the specifics another day.

// WORKING OUT WITHOUT EQUIPMENT
 
Even if you don't have any equipment at all, you still have one of the best workout tools of all. Your own body weight can provide quite a cardio/strength session all on its own. If you usually slug slow miles outdoor in winter, incorporating some more challenging moves, like burpees, to your routine can help kick things up a notch.

Here's a quikie I've been doing once a week:


You could easily speed through this workout in less than 30 minutes, but please take time to focus on form and engaging the right muscle groups versus trying to win the race. I'm thinking specifically of the air squats and burpees. The pushups, too, are infinitely harder if you go the entire way up/down.

Oh, and just a note that "cheerleader" situps are the only thing I could think to call the sort of situps where you lay flat on the ground, arms above head + legs extended straight out . . . and then you use your abs to pull yourself up, all while spreading your arms + legs and touching your hands to your toes as if you're doing a split in the air.

That's a horrible explanation, but does it make sense? And, yes, I was a (middle school) cheerleader and we used to do up to 100 of these in practice! I suppose they made me silly, which is why I can't better explain the move!

PS: A couple readers reminded me that "cheerleader sit-ups" could better be called "V-ups"! Exactly! Thank you, gals!

Stuck indoors today? A lot of us are in the deep freeze! How are you staying active?


And don't miss our 90 healthiest recipes of 2013! Lots of delicious, wholesome foods for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and beyond. Includes both vegan and vegetarian recipes to please the entire family -- even toddlers!




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Last Week in Workouts

There are few things better than running barefoot on the beach.

Here's last week in workouts:

M: 4 miles
T: Rest
W: 4 miles
R: 6 miles at 8:30/mile
F: 4 miles at 8:15/mile w/ intervals
S: 5K (8:40, 8:10, 7:40) + 6 mile beach walk
S: 9 mile long run, barefoot on beach + 25 minutes Pilates

TOTAL: 30.1 miles running, lots of walking around Cape May

I'm really proud of how I stuck to my training this week despite being away from home. I think this might be the first time EVER that I got in all my miles while on vacation. And to add to it, I did other active stuff, too. That 6-mile beach walk was to get Ada to sleep the day we didn't have a place to land during her nap.

Worked like a charm! (And yes, I hate the sun. SPF shirt + wide-brimmed hat for me!)


You might notice Pilates in the mix -- a workout I've done only maybe twice in my life -- we're in Wildwood Crest this week with family, and my future sister-in-law Kate is a certified instructor. I am hoping she can whip my core into shape by the end of the week. Or at least get a start. (PS: You can take classes from her too!)

I'm taking today off to let my calves recover from all those barefoot miles in the sand yesterday. Ouch. Honestly, I didn't realize I had gone quite that far until I had to turn around. Oops. Accidental longer run. I needed to do one, so I guess it was the best way!

How'd your last week's workouts go?

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Running X-Country

Hope everyone had a great holiday! Ours was packed with activity, food, and fun. And it all started with a morning run of Stephen's high school cross-country course in NJ.

It's been a long time since I've run on grass versus roads -- so, to say this course was incredibly challenging for me is an understatement. We started after 10AM (dumb!) with the temps already in the mid-80s and the humidity at 95%.  To complicate things, it's been raining a lot in our region -- so the ground was saturated, muddy -- and extremely steamy with the sun's rays.

I think you can see where this is going.

The plan was to run the 5K course twice (for me) and 3x (for Stephen). The first loop, we'd do together so I wouldn't get lost. If you've never run a cross-country course around a high school before -- basically it zigzags irregularly around the grounds and woods surrounding. At Stephen's school, there were markers, but nothing is numbered -- so it was easy to get confused. Even Stephen forgot some twists and turns.

The first mile was alright. We finished in 8:10 . . . but the humidity was oppressive. I'm sure that's a relative statement, but for this Northern girl . . . I have little tolerance. This was WAY beyond even my most extreme capacity for heat. Thankfully the second mile dipped into lightly shaded trails, so we got some respite, although an incline to boot.

Soon after that, we found ourselves in this gigantic cornfield. And this is where I had a mini-panic attack. Not really. Sort of? Well, we ran down, down, down the field and I knew it was humid, but because we were zooming with little effort it was OK. Then we had to go back up the incline again. The sun had been covered by the clouds but was swiftly revealed again as soon as we hit the uphill, and -- all of a sudden -- I couldn't breathe.

I told Stephen I had to stop . . . I tried getting a breath, but felt completely trapped and suffocated by the thick air. I think my lungs are still recovering from my chest cold a couple weeks ago, so that could be part of it. But whatever it was, I spent 30 seconds frantically trying to get a good inhale. Eventually I calmed down, some breeze hit me, and we decided to keep going.


After the first loop, I just didn't want to do it again. So, I rested under a tree for 5 minutes or so. Drank some water, too. Stephen went off to finish his run on the roads (he wasn't feeling it either, plus the mud was tricky to maneuver). I ran to the track to do a few drama-free loops + eventually headed back to the shaded part of the trail and finished up my other 5K.

I definitely was running 1-2 minutes slower than my usual pace -- it was a little shocking to see on my watch. But in the heat, you do what you can, right?

Yup. It was an up and down sort of run. I'm sure you've had them. I guess even the most dedicated and semi-"hardcore" runners can freak out and have a massively bad day. Still, it was really fun to see where Stephen raced so many times when he started his running career.

Let's go back in the fall, shall we?


Did you sweat to celebrate the Fourth? I'm thinking a lot of you ran races! Tell me about them!

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Last Week in Running + Fitting It In

I had all these grand plans for training really hard for the upcoming Boilermaker 15K. We've been so busy with various things, from house projects to family obligations, that I've just been running where I can fit it in. Not only that, we're getting into my least favorite season for exercising outdoors.

Excuses, excuses.

M: 9.3 mile long run at 8:25/mile average pace
T: 3.5 mile shakeout run, not timed
W: Yoga for 1 hour at gym
R: Off
F: 3.1 mile jog, not timed
S: 3.1 mile progressive run (8:10, 7:50, 7:30)
S: 6 mile stroller run at 8:30/mile

TOTAL: 25 miles. But that 9.3 should have happened on the Sunday of the previous week. So, yeah. I need to get back to serious training if I want to meet my 1:40 half marathon goal for the fall.

You read that right, I didn't do much cross-training either. After a grand post about my at-home spinning routine, I skipped my cycling workout to rest. Grrr.

• I feel good that I am actually getting out there most days and moving myself. 
• I feel bad that it's not for longer distances or more challenging workouts. 
• I feel good that I'm living a healthy balance and actually enjoying my workouts. 
• I feel bad that I might be stalling my progress toward a major goal by being lazy.

Now that I'm a mom (yup -- the mom-card), things really are different with training + racing. I always knew they would be, it was just a matter of to what extent. How much time would the baby take away from my running? Or, rather, how much time would I take away from running to focus on other things?

For example, I see/know some moms training for marathons, Ironmans, etc. -- and I think, WOW. That's incredible. On the other hand, I think -- WOW. That's absolutely insane. I'd rather do other things with all that time.

Right? I'm not sure all the time. I waver. Toggle between cool-with-it and feeling like I'm just lazy.


What I do know.

• I don't have the desire to completely fill up my weekends with running events. I'd rather focus on family time, me time, and getting things that need to be done . . . done.
• I don't have the desire to wake up early on weekends to get in key training runs; I get up early enough during the week (5:30) to start my work while Ada's still sleeping. I don't deserve a medal, but if Ada sleeps past 7:30 on a Saturday, I'd like to as well.
• I have a bigger social life now that "our" friends have encompassed Ada's friends, too. Instead of planning a day around working out, I'm finding myself squeaking in runs before/in-between/after birthday parties, picnics, and other play-dates. That stuff is important.
• Sometimes being at home with a toddler all day long is great and other times, not. Some nights I'd rather use my free hour to get out + see friends. Or watch TV. Or get my hair cut.
• And my free time is limited unlike before. As in, finite. I only get so much, so if I do feel like doing something instead of working up a sweat, that's it.

Again, I hate making the excuses. So, instead of fitting in key workouts, I'm finding I'm fitting in working out in general. Period. Mom or not, I'm sure you can relate. We all have periods of life that just push our priorities elsewhere. I'm OK with that. I just can't be surprised when I don't do well at a race. I can't mope when I'm not knocking minutes off PR-times.

What I am committed to:

• Working out 4-5 days a week. Even if it's just Jillian's Ripped in 30 + a short jog. Which I started last night. My butt hurts. I ran two miles after the video and almost cried died.
• Keeping my comfortable long run distance 10 miles. This way, I can easily jump to the 15K or half marathon serious training if need be.
• Cross-training. I WILL get in my spinning workout this week.
• Doing some type of speed-play with my running, whether it's intervals or what. I need to get my legs moving fast.
• Signing up for a 5K. As a reality check. It might help motivate me back into hard-core training if my time isn't so great. We'll see.

Moms + other busy runners of the world (that's everyone, right?): How do you fit in your training?

Do you have a similar experience of wanting to train hard but having life just get in the way?  I know it can be done, but I think balance is always good -- and when there's a lot to balance, everything has to give a little.

Do I just lack discipline? Maybe!

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Spinning at Home

I have been mentioning cross-training quite a bit in my running-related posts recently. It's because I've been doing much more of it, especially getting back into indoor cycling. And a few of you had questions, so I thought I'd address them in a post rather than replying individually.

(Skipping the Weekend Things post this week because regular stuff has been spotty.)

#1: You have a gym membership -- why did you buy your own spinning bike? 

Well, we NOW have a gym membership, but back when we bought our bike in 2010, we didn't. It was a well thought out purchase because Stephen and I both enjoy spinning, but don't always have the money + time + motivation for classes.

Plus, honestly, those spinning die-hards sort of intimidate me.

At the time, we also didn't have a treadmill either, so the idea was that if the weather is icy or below zero (or, in this case, when it's 90 degrees -- because, apparently, I hate extremes), we'd have a good workout we could complete indoors. As well, we were both trying to get in some low-impact training to balance out all the miles run on the road.

#2: What kind of bike do you have? 

We have a basic, base model by Spinner. It's been a few years, so the closest bike I could find is the Spinner Fit Indoor Cycle. It may seem like a bit of an investment at first, it costs around $600, but after three years of use, it's really held up well. And that bike I linked to comes with 4 DVDs, which I'll write more about in a minute.

I have been surprised with how solid + sturdy it is despite being a lower level on the spectrum of other spinning bikes available. However, there are also a few models that run under $200!

If you're already a cyclist, you may also be able to get yourself an indoor trainer and ride the bike you already own year-round. I don't have a road bike (mine's a hybrid), so I don't know if this was an option. I'd love to hear more from people who ride with trainers.


#3: What is your setup like? Any other gear needed? 

As you can see, I ride our spinning bike right in the living room amidst unfinished puzzles and stuffed animals. For the time being, we're storing the bike in our entryway, which will need to change when we start using that space more formally after we do a bit of renovation work. A true benefit to a spinning bike versus a treadmill is the small footprint.

As far as other gear goes:

• I have a pair of padded bike shorts to cushion the uncomfortable-ness. I like the shorter ones because I sweat like crazy while spinning.
• Though I'm not wearing them in these photos, my Merrell Barefoot Glove shoes work extremely well for spinning. Not quite as hard/intense as normal cycling shoes, but more support and less bounce than my Brooks Pure Flows (the workout in my running shoes wasn't very comfortable, truth be told!).
• And a towel + water bottle are absolute essentials, too.

#4: What workouts do you do? How long/times a week?

If you want, you can just switch on music or TV and ride. Make your own mountains, etc. If you've ever been to a spinning class, you sort of know the different positions on the bike. Sitting, "jogging" or standing, and then that third sort of position of standing with your butt out and holding the low handlebars. Right? Right.

I prefer to do a DVD, which I've mentioned before, because I find when I go rogue, I quit after 15-20 minutes. Trying to push through pain while watching a Lifetime movie just doesn't happen.

// I have the Spinning Turn + Burn DVD. It's great for an intense 45-50 minute interval workout. It includes climbs of 5 different hills of varying lengths. I am drenched when it's over. And always pleasantly surprised I could actually finish it. I do this workout once a week, but am looking to increase to twice/week.

I'd like to vary the routine, so I'm eying these others:

• Spinning Ireland Road Tour -- because it might be more fun to watch scenery than the real or imagined sexual tension I pick up in my current DVD.
• Spinning Crank it Up -- it's by the same instructor, but I guess it's at the "next level" and got a lot of good reviews.
• Spinervals Competition -- this one sounds intense. Description says it's difficulty 9.9 on a 1-10 scale. Might be good as a replacement for a speed workout once in a while.
• Mindy Mylrea: Short & Sweet Cycling -- I think I'd use the bike more if I had the option for shorter workouts. This DVD has 3 20-ish minute ones to choose from.

(See the torn-up floor boards? this room is getting a face-lift!)

This question wasn't asked, but I'll just tell you my favorite part of spinning is when it's over. I tend to dread my cross-training because running -- though difficult at times -- is my happy place. When I venture out of my fitness-zone, I feel much more exertion. But that's a GOOD thing.

What spinning gives me that running doesn't is this gigantic sense of accomplishment . . . but more in a surprised way. Like I mentioned above, when I finish a workout, I'm always like "WHOA, REALLY?! I just did that and didn't stop?!?!"

So, that's a good way to feel once + a while.

Spinning is also undeniably great for my running. I know I've written it in the past, but I ran my fastest 5K even when I was spinning 2/week. It's because the motion gets your legs moving faster and the resistance is tough and makes you push through more than with just running. At least in my not-so expert opinion.

Do you spin? Anything more to add? I'd love to get more into outdoor biking, too, but we don't live in an area with tons of long bike paths or safe roads. It's quite a bit of traffic until things open up. Though I really should investigate more!

Happy weekend, everyone!

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Boilermaker Training Plans

It's been effing hot and I hate running in the heat. Last night's 4+-miler was in 87, sunny, and super muggy. With pollen basically choking me the entire way. It's everywhere. Ick. BUT I've started my training for the Boilermaker 15K that is in about 8 weeks. (Oh, crap -- we still haven't made hotel arrangements!)

I don't have a goal for this race except to beat my last time, which -- in 2010 -- was 1:13:45, 7:55 pace. I'm thinking it won't be terribly difficult since my recent half marathon was run at that exact pace. Rather, I RAN it at that pace, stupid passive voice! 

Possible secret weapon: 

I added a spinning workout to my routine last Wednesday. A way to get my legs moving fast without impact. And with the added resistance, I know it's helped in the past shave seconds, even minutes off race times.

As much as I'm dreading it (because it's so damned hard to get back into spinning after a 2-year hiatus), I'm going to give it another go tonight. Does anyone else have the Spinning Turn + Burn DVD? I swear the instructor must have been sleeping with half the class with all those swoon-eyes.

(My mind wanders to strange places when I physically challenge myself.)

15K PLAN:

To develop this plan, I used Smart Coach via Runner's World at Jen's suggestion.I likely won't run my easy miles at certain paces (I usually come in around 8:25/mile versus 9+ -- but with the heat, who knows?) However, the harder workouts are definitely something I'm sticking to. And the good news? They aren't all that far off what I did in my last training cycle.

I like that most weeks are just 4 days of running and those that are 5 have some pretty low mileage. I'll be fitting in a spinning workout + a yoga class each week, too.

I'm not so sure about the 1:10:50 magic number that the calculator came up with for my finish time. The course is hilly and hot, hot, hot. But at least doing the speedwork to try and achieve this goal will help with my longer-term 1:40 half marathon plans for the fall.

So, that's what's going on in my training. How about you?

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Training the Mind

First, let's recap last week in running.

M: 3 easy mile recovery from the steady 12-miler
T: 800 m swim + squats (4 sets w/ 12 reps), kettlebell swings/etc.
W: Yoga
R: 3 x 1600s (7:46, 7:42, 7:40) + 3 miles warmup/rest/cooldown = 6 total 
F: OFF
S: 5 miles at 7:42 average = 38:20
S: 10 mile long run at 8:30/mile = 1:25:00

I've had this huge awakening with my training. It all started by DOING the speed workouts and pace workouts and tempo works prescribed in my plan. I always did these workouts in the past by perceived effort. And it worked well for me. It can for you, too, especially if you're a beginner or don't want to be strapping a watch on your arm for every workout.

In my head, running under 8-minute miles in a workout always seems crazy hard. In the past, it would intimidate me for days and psyche me out in the end. So, I'd just keep doing my thing. Running what felt harder to me than an easy run and hoping for the best. I've PRed using this method, but I feel in the past year, I've been a bit stagnant.

I'd love to break 1:45 in this upcoming half marathon. And, in consultation with Stephen, I've realized this goal will entail some specific pace training. I've been borrowing his watch on runs and -- get this -- actually REALLY sticking to the workouts. I've had some major successes with my times + confidence, mostly due to:

1.) Believing I can do it. 

 Running is so much more a mental sport that we think. By "knowing" in my mind that I can achieve these paces, I have been able to get faster. Keeping in mind that I'm not reaching outside my ability based on race times (for those of you wondering how I'm determining the "right" pace, I'm using a pace calculator I wrote about a while back -- when my goals were a bit ambitious, I might add).

2.) Running just 4x/week.

A reduction in the number of running days has had a huge impact on my training. I feel much more fresh at the start of a workout. I look forward to running workouts versus dread slogging along to log more miles. Just another reason cross-training rules. And at the level I'm "competing" at, 4x a week is enough to see results. Or so we'll see.

But this week is mostly about walking. All day long. So, I'll get back to it.


How do you train your mind?

Have any stories to tell about running faster by b.e.l.i.e.v.i.n.g you can do so?

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Running Recap

Here's last week in running. Definitely was a good one.

M: 3 easy miles (I was sick, but felt good to get out)
T: 3 treadmill miles at 8:30/mile + kettlebells and squats
W: 1 hour Ashtanga yoga DVD
R: 4 x 800s at 7:30 pace w/ warmup + recovery = 5 miles in 41 minutes
F: OFF
S: Tempo run -- 4 miles at 7:57/mile = 32 minutes
S: 15K + extra miles to add up to a long run of 12 at 8:16/mile = 1:40

= 27 miles total

This week I committed to running actual speed and tempo workouts outdoors. I have always been intimidated by these types of runs. I would dread and dread them . . . and now I know why. I set the paces too fast! Trying to do sub 7-min mile pace for whatever reason. Too hard!

So I worked with Stephen to slot the appropriate times down for my half pace goal of 7:55/mile. Surprisingly, these runs were difficult, but not at all impossible. I'm hoping they pay off, but I did start them late in the training cycle. We'll see, I guess!

I'm a bit disappointed I didn't get in my mile swim, but that's just icing on the cake.

I had originally intended to run yesterday's race as an actual race. Try to dip under 1:13 and PR for the 15K. But I had two things going: 1.) I am still recovering from a chest cold and have been getting coughing fits after hard efforts 2.) I haven't run more than 10 miles at a time since October and, with my half marathon is fast approaching, I wanted to run 12 miles, not race 9.3.


So, a half mile or so in, I settled in with some of my running buddies, and we decided to run as a comfortably hard long run. It was awesome to chat throughout the course, take our time at water stops, and finish with huge smiles on our faces despite some hills at the end. Our time was 1:16:59 (8:16/mile), not a second longer.

Stephen did great, though, and set a new PR of 52:32 (5:39/mile) + came in third overall.


Otherwise, this weekend Stephen played shoe matchmaker for me (it's been 6 months -- my shoes are dead!) and -- for once in the past 2+ years -- they aren't Nike Frees. I still love that shoe, but with marathon training on the horizon, I wanted something minimal . . . but with more cushioning.

So, I got the Saucony Virrata.

I haven't run in them (planning to do a slow three later today), so I'm not sure if I'm keeping 'em yet. But I hope to do a review soon if they agree with me. If you'd like to read more about them, Michele (NYC Running Mama) did a review recently.

How was your last week in workouts? Anyone run a race or PR this weekend?

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Last Week in Running + GF Energy

I think one of my biggest worries with going gluten-free is that it will somehow impact my energy levels, especially while working out. I have a 4-mile race this weekend where -- ideally -- I'd like to PR. Obviously going GF doesn't mean going carb-free, that's another thing entirely.

Still, how will my body react without its usually well-stocked arsenal of bread?

Here's last week's at-a-glance from Daily Mile:

M: Totally off (after speedy 10-mile LSD)
T: 5 miles easy around the neighborhood
W: 3 treadmill miles, alternating 1/2 mile repeats 8:30/7:30 pace + kettlebells
T: 4 miles easy around the neighborhood
F: Totally off
S: OFF (drove to my hometown/back + was too tired)
S: OFF (cleaned house, 2-year-old's birthday, wasn't a priority)

Underwhelming, no? Grand total of 12 miles for the week. I'd say a "bad" week of exercise happens to me every 5 or 6 weeks. Of course, any exercise is good -- and I'm happy I'm not injured because my knee was giving me guff earlier in the year. Sometimes life just get in the way. Or perhaps the previous week had been more taxing than I'd realized.

In this case, yes + yes. It happens.

I made up for my lack of a long run on Monday afternoon with a 7.5 jaunt. It's a step-back week PLUS a slight taper, so I doubt I'll get over 20 this week. However, if I'm not too sore after Saturday's race, I would like to run 10 miles on Sunday. We shall see.


I rarely write about strength training using anything besides body weight ($0 Strength Training is my favorite). I never did much and then I got pregnant and did even less. I've started up a little routine that I do twice weekly. What I'm discovering already is that I also need to balance this out with stretching. I tried doing a wheel (yoga) yesterday -- usually a fun pose for me -- and almost fell over because my hip flexors are so tight!

It consists of the following. In all, between 20 to 30 minutes to complete.

• 3 to 4 sets of squats 
• kettlebell swings (35 lbs), deadlifts (45 to 55 lbs), etc. -- 3 sets of 20 each
• pushups (2-3 sets of 30)
• planks (whatever I can manage -- I hate them)

Yesterday I squatted starting with 65 (of that, the bar weighs 45), 75, 85, then 95. It's nothing remarkable, but it's a start. I don't really know how much I should be able to squat, so I'm playing it safe and focusing on good form, squatting deep enough, doing a good 12 to 15 reps. That sort of thing.

I don't love strength stuff. Good news, though: I can already feel a major improvement in my running. I don't tire as quickly. My legs feel solid and strong, like they could carry me farther than before without needing rest. I don't see myself getting into huge amount of strength training, but I think some is better than none.


But how gluten-free will play into my activity/running is still to be seen. Some of you have preached the importance of sweet potatoes. Some of you are doing Paleo which is even stricter with its grains (or zero, I don't really know the deal there). I know it can be done, but I guess I'm skeptical I'll have the right mix of energy without eating pizza all the time.

I know I need to look beyond bread + pasta for my healthy carbohydrates, but I guess I'm set in my gluten-y ways.

What's your favorite gluten-free pre-race/workout dinner?

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