Fitness Adventure #3: Sweeting Orange Theory

It has been a while since my last fitness adventure and I have been itching to get out there again. Unfortunately when a lot of these places don't offer childcare but my free time schedule because limited. But I was able to make things work this week and check out Orange Theory with my friend Ally.

As in any adventure I was nervous to try something new but when I first stepped in I was warmly welcomed. I received my loaner heart rate monitor and was introduced to the super nice instructor. They went over a few basic things and then I was off with my group. Everything is well explained by the instructor and she goes around to make sure you are doing the right form.

It was strength day so my group started out in the weight area. We did 3 different set of exercises in a certain amount of time. I really liked how everything worked total body and you mixed in cardio during the routine with the water rower. I was also very happy that one of our moves used the TMX straps. The 30 mins went fast.

Then our group switched and we headed to the treadmills. Things got tougher here and I defiantly had to push myself to stay where I needed to be for my heart rate. We did a mix of different inclines and speeds to keep it interesting and challenging. I only glanced over to see where the waste basket was once just in case my breakfast came up.

The heart monitor device was really neat. My loaner one was not working great but once you join you get a more reliable wrist version. Basically it helps you figure out where you are for your heart rate and if you need to push harder or to slow it down. It was really fun to watch on the big screen how I was doing and then afterwards you get an emailed report.

Overall I really like the concept of what they are doing. Because you are mixing it up the hour classes go by so fast. And it really helps to push you to get the best workout you can. My muscles are sore tonight in places I didn't know I had muscle.

The one big thing I was not a huge fan of was I felt like I was working out at Da Club with the blaring hip hop music. I think the past 2 months  of super quiet early morning by myself workouts has tainted me from fitness interaction with others. But the instructor mentioned that the music changes day by day.

First class is free at Orange Theory so give it a try and see if it is something that will help you reach your goals!

Training for Runs without Carbs - My Story

A lot of people in my running group would consider me crazy but I started doing my Whole30ish/Food Trigger Detox program right at the beginning of my half marathon and marathon walk training. Last year I gained 7 pounds when I did my training because I let myself eat granola bars filled with sugar on my runs and then would eat to my heart content when I got back. This year I want to focus on doing this to make me feel good while I was training and the reason why I am focusing so much on how I fuel myself.

Because I am doing so much running/walking I am really careful about making sure I do get enough fuel and especially those carb filled vegetables that have so much of the good stuff in it. So far into week 3 of my plan I have had summer squash. Spaghetti squash, beets, sweet and white potatoes to support me.

You do have to think outside the box sometimes to make sure you are getting in the right food. This morning before my early run I had a hard boiled egg and sweet potato soup with coconut milk in it. During runs I drink HYDRATE and carry a dried fruit bar for additional fuel as needed (only on runs 6 miles or longer). After my run I had a RECOVER Protein Shake, omelet with summer squash topped with salsa and avocado and watermelon.

Week 2 I felt the effects of low energy as my body adjusted to this new way of eating but overall it hasn't effected my run times. Week 3 I feel much better. Although I haven't weighed myself since I started and I am not plannign to until after my half marathon I am feeling lighter which makes running even easier.

Interested in learning how to fuel yourself right, how to do a Food Trigger Detox program or to learn about the products I use email me at sarah@lifestyleforward.com.

Let's Get Running

When people hear the word running they either groan or yell with glee. I have a love/hate relationship with running so I do a little of both. I used to be made to run in high school for sports. Then I took a long resting period. After my second son was born and I decided to stay home with him, I needed something to fill in our times together and long walks soon turned into runs. Running became my escape in the day. While my son was exploring the world from his strapped in seat, I was lost with my thoughts. I soon discovered that without the stroller I could go even faster and my competitive streak took over. Today I never thought I would be one of those people that look forward to races and training with friends. During a race I always tell myself never again and then I cross the finish line and can’t wait to sign up for my next one.

Here are some things I learned along my running journey that may help spark yours.

Low Equipment Investment
Sure there are a lot of things out there that are promoted to help you run longer or faster but in the end you only need a good pair of shoes (and some would even agree you could run barefoot). I always invest in a quality pair of shoes from a place that will fit me to the type I need at least twice during the running season. Your feet will thank you.

Mix it up
I found I enjoy my runs the best when I discover new places or terrains. Have a couple of known areas and paths that you can go to but don’t be afraid to try out new towns or change it up from inside to outside. I found that my love of running is much greater if I don’t do it all the time. Cross train with strength training and weights, core exercises and flexibility moves to make sure your body is using all of its muscles.

Set a Goal
When you start to run figure out your WHY behind doing it. Are you trying to get to a certain distance, have a weight loss goal or want to get faster in races? Once you know your WHY, set a goal to work towards it.

Get Support
I like to run alone with my own thoughts but I get pretty boring to myself after a while. Running is a great way to meet new people and learn new ideas. Join a running group or online support group to share your ups and downs of running.

If you are looking to get off the couch and get walking or running this spring I would love to help you. Connect with me at sarah@lifestyleforward.com to learn more about local resources and support groups that can help you along your running journey. Together we can change your hate of running to be a love (or maybe at least a like).