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Floradise

A lifestyle blog by Marette Flora

How to Start Running

 

**This post contains affiliate links. I make a small commission on purchases made through these links.

My lack of fitness motivation earlier this year got me thinking about why I started running in the first place. Before 2011 I was not interested in working out or running — at all. I couldn’t finish a mile if my life depended on it. I was not in a good place in my life at all, and I needed to prove to myself that I could set a goal and accomplish it. I was inspired by runner friends and a desire to love myself to start running. It has changed my life!

I’ve recently started to regain my motivation to train for another half-marathon. This inspired me to share my tips on how to start running.

You just have to start. 

When I began, running felt awful, but I kept going. I didn’t invest in fancy new running shoes right away; I just worked with what I had. I searched for a running schedule online and followed it. It was as simple as that.

A key to starting is to establish your why. This is going to push you through the times when you doubt yourself and want to quit.

If I were just starting out now, I’d know about many more resources available than I did back then. I just learned on my own with occasional advice from runner friends. If you want professional advice, I would find training that involves cardio at places such as Orangetheory Fitness, or you can hire a trainer if your budget allows. You can also sign up for group training for races (Mine was only $35 for 12 weeks.). It’s much more affordable than one-on-one coaching and you will find new runner friends. If in-person coaching is not in the budget, you can also find free running groups on Meetup.com. In addition, you’ll free resources online: Blogs, fitness websites and YouTubers can all offer valuable advice. Search for running form class or workshops in your area (usually at local running shoe stores) if you want advice on proper form.


What you need to get started:

  • A good pair of running shoes. I found that I didn’t have any issues when I had the right size and fit of shoe. I consulted a longtime runner who worked at a running store in Phoenix to find the right shoes for me. He’s the one who suggested going up half a size when I was having issues with my toenails, and he was so right. I have since always purchased a half size larger in running shoes. Some runners think losing toenails is a badge of courage, but it really shouldn’t be happening. Look into insoles as well.
  • Good running socks. All socks are not made equally. Cheap socks have resulted in blisters for me in the past. Don’t make this mistake!
  • Moisture-wicking running clothes.
  • Sunglasses or hat, lip balm and sunscreen (or weather-appropriate clothing).
  • A hydration system that works for you. I have tried hand-held water bottles, water bottle belts, hydration packs and using the water fountains along my path.
  • Hair ties.
  • If you intend to listen to music, you’ll need an armband or Flipbelt to hold your phone, as well as headphones. The key is have the volume at a low level or only wear one earbud, because you need to be able to hear someone calling out “On your left” or whatever else.
  • Headlamp/lights or reflective gear if running at dusk/dawn or night. In any race where you have to run at night and around traffic, you typically run on the opposite side of the street, facing traffic so you can see it.
Running Tips

 

Websites for runners:

These sites offer information for runners and fitness lovers.
Running Tips
What websites would you add?

Rules of the road:

The following are little rules, or etiquette tips, that I have learned over the years.

  • Stay to the right. When passing, do so on the left, and say out loud, “On your left” to let the person you are passing know. This is to prevent any accidents or to avoid startling someone. (Also to maintain order in what can be a chaotic world. haha! But really, sometimes running paths can be crowded, and this helps.)
  • Always pay attention to your surroundings, whether it’s cyclists, strollers, walkers, golf carts, whatever. Don’t just suddenly stop or change directions without looking around. Same goes for people who blow their nose (snot rockets) on the road!
  • On crowded paths or trails, run behind your partner instead of crowding the entire walkway.
  • If you ask someone to run with you and he or she is a slower runner than you, don’t leave him or her in the dust unless you discussed previously that you’d each run at your own paces. It’s just rude!
  • Help each other out. Cheer for other runners and help anyone you notice is in trouble. The running community is so wonderful to be a part of.
What tips would you add?

 

Training tips for a half- or full marathon:

(See the running page on my blog for more training posts.)
  • Combine strength training and yoga/stretching into your plan.
  • Hire a coach or go on group runs if possible.
  • Don’t do anything too crazy the week of the race. That means eating irregular foods or trying new workouts.
  • Test out pre-run meals, hydration and energy gels/ chews/products during long runs and do so multiple times.
  • Run in all weather conditions, unless it’s completely dangerous (lighting, severe storms, etc.), because it just might rain on race day. (I don’t always follow this, but it really is for the best.)
  • Seek professional advice on the right shoe for you.
  • Don’t ignore pains/injuries. Get them checked out and do something about them.
  • Do a test run in your race day outfit, preferably more than once.
  • Don’t give up or be too hard on yourself.
  • Add some hill runs/workouts to the mix.

How to find motivation:

Related post: Gaining back motivation to work out

  • Connect with other runners on social media. Follow runners and read running/fitness blogs.
  • Go on group runs or run with a friend.
  • Hire a trainer or coach.
  • Watch YouTube videos on fitness and running.
  • Read running/fitness magazines.
  • Replace your old running shoes.
  • Get some cute new running clothes.
  • Take your kiddo along for a family jog in the running stroller.
  • Schedule time to run. Hire that babysitter and free a block of time.
  • Create a new running playlist. Subscribe to running playlists on Spotify.
  • Create a running vision board or Pinterest board.
  • Participate in workout/fitness challenges.
  • Reward yourself (in moderation/in healthy ways).
  • Set short- and long-term goals.

Hashtags for motivation and connecting with runners:

#fitfluential
#RagnarTraining
#marathontraining
#fitgirl
#halfmarathontraining
#RunChi
#runnerproblems
#running
#MondayMotivation
#SundayRunday

What hashtags do you use?

Best races I have run:

  • Chicago Marathon: This was my second marathon but it’s in a city I have grown to love. The crowd was incredible, and I’m talking about both the spectators and the runners.
  • Kentucky Derby Marathon: It was my first marathon. I felt so touched that Graham’s family came to watch and support me.
  • Chicago Spring and Fall Half Marathons: The medals are the best I’ve seen, and again, they are in a great city.
  • Phoenix Half Marathon:The course is gorgeous and it’s at a nice time of year in Phoenix.
  • Ragnar Relay: I have run a Ragnar race four times: threes time at the Ragnar Del Sol and once at Ragnar McDowell Mountain. It’s an incredibly challenging race, but it’s also unforgettable and fun.

Related running posts:

Running favorites:

Garmin Vivosmart HR

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Brooks Adrenaline GTS 17 (various colors, I have purple)

 

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Flipbelt (various colors)

 

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What running tips would you add?

Half-Marathon Training Update | Don’t Be So Hard on Yourself

** This post contains affiliate links. I make a small commission for purchases through these links.

Beats Powerbeats3 Wireless Headphones, Garmin vivosmart HR, gray capri leggings (old) and Yogo Athletica top (found at Marshalls)

I had planned to run a half marathon yesterday.

If you’ve read this blog recently, you might remember seeing four half-marathon training updates and reflections. After a late start, I was finally on track and preparing for the Chicago Spring Half Marathon on May 21. I was able to do all my midweek workouts throughout training, but the long runs seemed impossible to complete.

I was trying to do everything: Freelance writing, working full-time, being a full-time work-from-home mom with little help, editing YouTube videos, planning a third birthday party — the list goes on. I found myself worn out and constantly stressed. I would write my running schedule in my planner, schedule a sitter and set aside the time, but then life kept disrupting my plans. One weekend I could not schedule a sitter because it was Easter and they were busy or booked. The gym with daycare was closed and Graham worked late. The next weekend I planned to run in Phoenix before Victoria’s birthday party, but I spent the entire time with the worst sinus infection of my life. (I powered through the party.) The next weekend I planned to complete my long run of 10 miles (I at least wanted to do that before the race.), but then a fire at our apartment building caused a power outage that lasted three days. I didn’t feel right keeping Victoria in the apartment with no electricity, even with a sitter, so I took her to the zoo instead and we spent most of the weekend at my friend’s house. By the next weekend I just knew: Yes, I can complete this race with little training, but I don’t want to half-ass it. It’s not who I am.

This experience reminded of something: You can do anything but not everything. With that in mind, I decided to defer my race entry to 2018. I am already signed up for the Chicago Fall Half Marathon in September, so that will be my next race.

As soon as I gave myself a break, I noticed a difference in my motivation and how I feel about my body. I have run almost every day since, either on the treadmill or outdoors. I actually want to work out and run. I am not stressed about planning my workouts; I just fit them in when I can. I feel excited to start PROPERLY training for my race in the fall.

Here’s what I plan to do differently:

  • Interview more sitters to have more backup options when one cancels or isn’t available.
  • Use the gym with daycare more and cancel other memberships.
  • Sign up for group half-marathon training with the coaches who prepared me for the Chicago Marathon. It starts June 21 and I can’t wait!
  • Go to at least one group run per month.
  • When life gets in the way of running, practice more yoga.
  • Focus on one thing at a time. If I know I have a big running week, I’m not going to make a bunch of social plans or to try to freelance write/blog. 
  • Take Victoria on short jogs in the running stroller.
  • Use my apartment building’s treadmill to run after Victoria goes to bed, if all else fails.
  • Re-evaluate my why. The reason I want to do another half is to meet or improve my race time, show myself I can still be a runner while being a mom, and set a good example for Victoria. It’s also my moving motivation, or at least it was when it didn’t feel like a chore. I want to get back to thinking of running and working out as a joy.

While post centers on my struggles with fitting my running goals in with my busy mom and career life, I hope you can take away some lessons from this.

  • Single tasking is better than multitasking.
  • Don’t be so hard on yourself. It’s easy to compare ourselves with social media fitness gurus, but you have to remember fitness is a full-time job for most of them. Yes, they can fit workouts in because that’s what they do for a living. A typical person often has to plan carefully to make sure he or she can work out/do whatever it is he or she loves.
  • You are stronger than you think.
  • Get creative to fit in your fitness. (I plan to share tips I learn along the way.)
  • Plan, but go with the flow when it’s disrupted.
  • Incorporate your child/family/friends into your workouts. (Read about our toddler and mom yoga class.)

Related Fitness posts:

Fitness Clothing Picks**:


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Mom & Toddler Yoga | Poses to Try

 

** This post contains affiliate links to yoga products. I make a small commission for purchases through these links. Thanks for supporting Floradise blog!

Victoria and I tried a yoga class together for the first time over the weekend. It was a workshop at one of my favorite Chicago yoga studios in honor of Mother’s Day. The teacher had to bow out at the last minute so another studio teacher filled in, bringing her toddler along.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from the class. I figured it would be like a regular class but with the toddlers attempting to follow along. This is what happened in reality:

The class began with dancing to Taylor Swift’s “Shake it Off.” Then we sat down and started to work on our breathing. The instructor assured us that this was a safe space and that anyone who needed to feed their child should feel free to do so. We next moved into cat/cow, downward-facing dog and various folds. Victoria was following along at this point. So far, so good. But then she became more interested in playing with blocks and bolsters than trying to copy her mom.  All the moms attempted to get yoga in but ended up trying to wrangle their kids. The teacher emphasized that we should let the children do what they want and not force them to do anything, and that was good advice. It was a lesson in going with the flow, which is pretty much at the center of yoga.

Victoria’s shirt is Spiritual Gangster. (Not an affiliate link.)

We did manage to do some yoga together though. The following are poses that I think you can do with toddlers in your own home for 15 or so minutes, or however long you have their attention. (Yoga Journal has thorough descriptions of how to do these poses.)

Poses to try at home:

  • High lunges with child on your back or on your knee. I opted to do the lunges and have Victoria do them alongside me, but younger, lighter kids can be held in your arms or settled onto your front bent knee.
  • Seated forward fold with feet together. Sit facing each other with your feet touching. Each of you folds forward toward the other person.
  • Standing forward fold with arms swaying, resembling an elephant.
  • Bridge with child on your stomach or crawling underneath you. I did both bridge and upward-facing bow, and Victoria enjoyed crawling under me. You could also have your toddler on your torso.
  • Downward-facing dog. Victoria loves to do the variation with one leg lifted.
  • Seated twists.
  • Cat/cow.
  • Child’s pose. Victoria loves child’s pose as well.
  • Savasana.
At home, Victoria likes to take her “ABC Yoga”  book** and mimic the poses inside. (It was a Christmas gift from her aunt and uncle.) It illustrates yoga poses in fun ways and is fun to do with toddlers. She also likes to try her variation of handstand, believe it or not. I plan to keep practicing yoga at home and asking her to join me if she seems interested.

 

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Have you ever tried yoga with kids?

Yoga essentials**:

 

  • Blocks. If nothing else, your kid can play with these while you practice.
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  • Bolsters. It feels great to recline on a bolster in savasana and bound angle pose, along with seated poses.

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  • Yoga mat. We rolled out two yoga mats next to each other for class.
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Let’s Dabble: Intro to Climbing Class

** I received a class credit for being a Dabble ambassador. All opinions have always been my own.

As a Dabble ambassador, aka Super Dabbler, I am regularly trying new hobbies via the countless classes on the Dabble.co website. I’ve tried SUP yoga, sushi rolling and photography, among many other activities. While each class challenges me in some way, my most recent class helped me take on one of my biggest fears: Heights.

This month’s Dabble class was Intro to Climbing, which was offered by Brooklyn Boulders Chicago on the Near West Side. The hourlong class is an introduction to rock climbing taught by a CWI-certified instructor in a small setting. My class had only two students, so we had plenty of one-on-one instruction and coaching. We learned the basic concepts of climbing and were given the opportunity to try climbs based on our skill level. Because I had never climbed and I was terrified, I started with V0. (My fellow student was more experienced, so he did more difficult climbs.) After failing a few times, the instructor had me try something easier to build my confidence. Getting to the top of the wall was the mental boost I needed to try a V1. It was an exhilarating feeling to complete it. I forced myself past the certain point on the wall where I would start to panic and get tunnel vision. It’s easy to miss an obvious path to the top because you are so close to the wall, but the instructor encouraged me from below. In addition to instruction and motivation, the $35 class includes your climbing shoes and a tour of the facility. The class will fly by!

 

Because I was climbing, I didn’t get much footage, but I put together a video of my experience. Watch below and subscribe for more videos of my fun adventures. Also, if you’d like to try a Dabble class on just about any activity, you can get 10 percent off by using code MARETTE10 at checkout. (An easier method if to use my referral link, which automatically populates the discount.) Dabble classes are currently available in such cities as St. Louis, Seattle, Chicago, Austin and Denver, but hopefully Dabble will expand further. Happy Dabbling!

Have you tried climbing or bouldering? What Dabble class would you take? 

Watch my short climbing video:

 

Running Playlist | At-Home Yoga | Half Marathon Training, Week 3

** This post contains affiliate links.

One way to motivate yourself to work out is to create a new playlist. I put together a new running playlist every season to re-inspire myself and give me another reason to get out on the running trail. Need ideas for workout tunes? Check out my Spotify playlist below and let me know your favorite songs right now in the comments. I am constantly adjusting my playlists as I go, adding new and old songs and deleting those I stop feeling inspired by.

Week 3 training recap:

Week 3 wasn’t impressive in terms of mileage, though I did feel more enthusiastic thanks to a fitness vlogger I’ve been watching. If you don’t currently follow any fitness Youtubers, I suggest checking some out as a way to find tips, new workout jams and inspiration.

Monday-Tuesday: Rest. On Monday I had intense back and shoulder pain again. I took Tuesday off as well to go see Hamilton.

Wednesday: 45 minutes of yoga. I filmed my at-home yoga sequence and provided the full list of poses in the description box. Subscribe for more videos!


Thursday: 1.76 miles at Orangetheory. We did a ton of inclines! (All the all-outs were at an incline, from 3-5 percent.)

Floor exercises included: burpees, single-arm front raises with 12 or 15 pounds, 500-meter row, 400-meter row, plank to elbows, reverse crunches, etc.

Friday: 20 minutes of yoga at home.

Saturday: 1.75 miles at Orangetheory.

Floor exercises included: lateral goblet lunges, 100-meter row, 150-meter row, 200-meter row, reverse lunges with hops, etc.

Sunday: 3 miles outside. This was supposed to be 6-8 miles, but I got a late start. I had to wait until Graham came home from work and got settled, so I didn’t make it out the door until close to 6 p.m. I feel like I could have run the at least full 6 miles if I had started earlier in the day, when I had more motivation.

Goal: 12 miles.

Mileage: 6.51 miles.

Yoga: 65 minutes.

Reflections:

While the mileage was down, the motivation was up. When it comes to tracking workouts, I find it more helpful to focus on what went right than what went wrong. Plus, better weather and a new playlist boosted my excitement for Week 4 of half-marathon training! I also am trying a new workout on Sunday that I can’t wait to share. Stay tuned!

Related fitness posts:

Shop fitness favorites**

Chicago Spring Half Marathon Training, Week 2

** This post contains affiliate links.
Found this Reebok sports bra at Marshalls. 

Week 2 of half-marathon training was an overall success despite minor setbacks. I was better about not making excuses and I doubled my mileage from last week, both much-needed victories and boosts of confidence! I feel so inspired going into Week 3. Let’s do this!

Here’s how Week 2 went down:

Monday: 2.25 miles at Orangetheory.

Also: Situps with torso rotation, planks lifting alternating leg/arm, 1,000-meter row, bicep curls on the TRX strap, single-arm snatches, squats, etc. I’ve been using 15 pounds for most moves.

Tuesday: Light yoga at home.

Wednesday: Rest day. I wanted to run outside or go to Orangetheory, but 1. It was rainy and cold. 2. I didn’t get child care in time and 3. I didn’t plan my meals well. (I can’t really eat a big meal right before class.) I felt like a failure — at training, being a parent, being a wife, and blogging. I felt much more hopeful after talking to Graham and having sushi for dinner. Do you ever have days like this? Tell me how you get through them in the comments, please.

Thursday: 1.5 miles at Orangetheory. It rained all.day.long. However, I was in much better spirits. I wrote down exact times I needed to eat and have things done to allow myself to work out.

Workout highlights: 30 power jacks with 8-pound medicine ball (two sets; would have preferred 10 pounds), Y raises on TRX strap, 600-meter row, 500-meter row, lateral bench hopovers, tricep extensions (15 pounds, three sets), etc.

Friday: Rest day.

Saturday: 5 miles on the treadmill. It was a beautiful day in Chicago (compared with the rest of the rainy week), sunny and 50 degrees. I would have loved to run outside, but I had planned to use the gym’s day care when I thought it was going to be gray/cold/rainy. (Graham had to work so he couldn’t watch her.) I felt great! I watched fitness and travel vloggers during my run to motivate me.

Sunday: 2 miles at Orangetheory.

Floor workout included: squats to bicep curls, atomic mountain climbers, squat jumps of the TRX straps, hoppers, squats to alternating reverse lunges.

Goal: 12-15 miles.

Week’s mileage: 10.75 miles.

Reflections:

I’m learning that being a mom doesn’t mean I have to sacrifice my necessary workouts or alone time; I just need to plan. (I also shouldn’t feel selfish! I finally used the child care center at the gym, but I’m not sure how I feel about it yet. The alternative would have been to schedule a sitter for Saturday morning so I could run outside. When the weather is even nicer that will likely be my solution, even though it costs more. (Child care at the gym is free.)

I felt great when I ran, and even better when I trained in the weight room. I love seeing slight changes in my arms, notably my arms. I still get uncomfortable in my shoulder; so I take it easy on the weight when we do stuff like reverse fly(s) and tricep extensions.

How are you doing with your goals?

Previous recap:

Shop my favorites**:

Chicago Spring Half-Marathon Training, Week 1 | Lessons From My Slow Start

** This post contains affiliate links. 

Shop Flipbelt in various colors.**

I almost didn’t share this half-marathon training recap, but I wanted to share the lessons I have learned about balancing fitness and family/life. It’s never easy, but it’s important to remember your why. Why is this training important to me?

  • I want to be a good example to Victoria.
  • I want to feel stronger.
  • I want to be healthy.
  • I want to prove to myself I can do it.
  • I enjoy running (when the weather isn’t miserable).

Monday: 1.65 miles at Orangetheory Fitness.

Floor workout included:

  • 800-meter row
  • 250-meter all-out row
  • 500-meter row
  • 980-meter row
  • Weighted reverse lunges (30/20/10/10)
  • Static crunch scissor kicks (30/20/10/10)
  • Squats (tapping the bench) (30/20/10/10)
  • TRX strap squat jacks (8 reps, 3 sets)
  • Bench stepups with 12 pounds (8 reps, 3 sets)
  • Side plank hip dips (8 reps, 3 sets)
  • Goblet squats with 20 pounds (8 reps, 3 sets)

Tuesday: Strength and restore yoga, 60 minutes.

We didn’t do a single Warrior pose or full sun salutation, but it still felt challenging. Most of the class focused on hip and shoulder openers because the two students (including myself) requested them. I found Fierce pose, aka Chair pose, especially difficult, probably because I haven’t done it in months.

Wednesday: 2.2 miles at Orangetheory. I chose to attend class over doing group training outside. Sorry, not sorry, because it was 30 degrees, and there was no way I was running outside. I used to do it all the time, but lately I ask myself, why do that when you have a membership at Orangetheory?

Floor exercises included:

  • High rows on the TRX straps
  • Two 700-meter rows (My time was 3:09 for each.)
  • Squats with 15-pound weights
  • Alternating Supermans
  • Leg lifts
  • Single-leg deadlifts

Thursday: Rest day. Light stretching.

Friday: 1 mile run and yoga at home. I wanted to run the 3-4 miles it said on my training plan on this 75-degree day, but by the time Graham was home and I could go outside, it had cooled down to the low 50s with wind that made it feel in the 40s. Chicago weather is just so fun! I made it about a mile before I realized I was underdressed and returned home.

Saturday: 1 mile. I tested out how I felt in the weather and I was not up for it at all. The wind makes a drastic difference.

Sunday: Rest.

Mileage: 5.85 miles.

Reflections:

Yes, I realize this mileage is pathetic. I don’t feel completely out of shape, so I know I will still be ready for the half-marathon in seven and a half weeks. This will be my eighth (I think) half-marathon (in addition to two marathons, two 10Ks and four Ragnar Relays), so by now I know what it takes to prepare myself for a race. While I am disappointed in my slow start, I am celebrating the small victory that is beginning my training (officially).

Lessons:

Don’t feel guilty for prioritizing family. I skipped Sunday’s workout to sleep in, cuddle with the family and then get ready for the Shedd Aquarium. I knew I would surpass my step goal that day, so I didn’t beat myself up about it.

Track macros and steps. Hitting your rest day counts is just as important as your training day macros and steps. Watch portion sizes!

Be flexible. As much as I’d love to stick to the schedule I set in my planner, life gets in the way sometimes. I might schedule a 6:45 p.m. workout but then I have no child care or work runs late. I write down other workout options in my planner in case that happens. For example, my planner will say 6:45 OTF or 8 p.m. OTF. If I can’t run outside and there are no classes available, I will try to instead do some yoga and exercises at home using videos or my own teaching plans.

Be kind to your body. Lately I have needed more rest days because of my shoulder and back soreness. While most of the discomfort has subsided by now, I still want to be careful in my workouts to make sure I am not overdoing it. It’s also important to incorporate stretching, foam rolling, massages (on your own or professional), and other self-care methods.

What are your current fitness goals? How do you make time for fitness/your hobbies?

Current favorites**

Gaining Back Motivation to Work Out | Half-Marathon Training

** This post contains affiliate links.
Yoga pants by 90 Degrees by Reflex (similar)**; C9 sports bra (similar)**; Fabletics headband**; Brooks Adrenaline GTS 17 shoes**

In October I became a work-from-home parent, and the adjustment period has taken a toll on my fitness motivation. Keeping up with a toddler is a workout in itself, am I right?! I’ve skipped workout after workout recently and I find myself in a rut. My half-marathon training was set to begin March 1, yet it’s three weeks later and I have only run 11.35 miles. My excuses to skip runs or fitness classes include but aren’t limited to: Chicago weather, getting sick, back and shoulder pain and prioritizing family time over fitness. The real reason I have been slacking on training, though, is simple: I have lost motivation.

The Chicago Spring Half Marathon is May 21, which is in nine weeks. It’s really now or never: I need to start seriously training. I want to re-prioritize fitness because working out is a key part of my physical and mental well-being. In an effort to burst out of this rut, I’m sharing ways I plan to regain motivation when the gym is the last thing I want to do.

  • Read fitness blogs. I find that I am inspired when I read a fitness blog post or watch a vlog. The passion can be contagious. Surround yourself with motivational influences.
  • Write down a specific workout and time in your planner. When I list something in my planner, I MUST do it. If you’re the same way, scheduling a class in advance may give you the necessary jolt.
  • Find a buddy. My friend and I were discussing our lack of motivation this weekend and we asked ourselves, why haven’t we worked out together yet?! I have no problem canceling workouts I plan myself, but I can’t imagine canceling on a friend.
  • Make it a family affair. Lately there have been days when I don’t want to leave the house for an 8 p.m. workout (the only time I can go sometimes) because I want to be back in time to put Victoria to bed and read her a story. We recently bought a running stroller, and I am counting down the days until I can take her with me on short jogs in nice weather. (Plus I won’t need to save my running for so late in the day and can instead do them during my lunch break.) Graham has also expressed an interest in training for a race together, during which we can motivate each other.
  • Create a new playlist. Every season I put together a running playlist on Spotify. I get excited about uninterrupted time to listen to new music and current favorites. (Stay tuned for a new running playlist!)
  • Compile a vision board on Pinterest or on actual paper. Use motivational quotes, images and workout plans as inspiration. Visualize the results you want to see. Remind yourself why you work out in the first place.
  • Try new workouts, running routes, class times, teachers/trainers. Mixing it up in some way keeps your workouts exciting and interesting. Take the most scenic running path! Sign up for a different group fitness class! Grab a new pair of colorful leggings! Try a different style of yoga! 
  • Wear a fitness tracker daily and track meals. Seeing your progress can give you a boost of confidence. It’s also fun to hit that daily step goal!
  • Keep a workout journal (take photos of yourself or share your workouts on social media). Write down how you feel before, during and after. Share your successes and failures to figure out what works for you and what doesn’t. Ask yourself if there’s something to be grateful for about the workout process and find an inspiring community via hashtags (#fitspo, #fitfluential, #MondayMotivation, etc.). Also, photos can help yourself see progress over time that isn’t always obvious to ourselves.
  • Set out your cute new workout clothes. Updating your worn-out athletic gear makes you want to work out! I recently got the pink/purple leggings above and am so excited to wear them more often.
How do you stay motivated? Share your tips in the comments to help each other out!

5 Reasons to Try Orangetheory Fitness

 

Photo courtesy of Orangetheory Fitness
Getting back into a fitness routine after family leave is among my February goals, so I am really focusing on making working out a priority. I was thinking about this in class Tuesday night, and I don’t know if it was the playlist, the motivation or the trainer, but I was reminded that I love making Orangetheory Fitness workouts a part of my training plan.
What is Orangetheory? Orangetheory is a heart rate-based group personal training class. You spend half the class on a treadmill (or a combination of treadmill and rower) and half the class on the floor (or a combo of weight room and the rower), which is outfitted with free weights, benches, TRX straps and other tools. A heart-rate monitor and screen tracks which zone you’re in and how many calories you burn. There are also Splat points that you earn, but to be honest I am not sure even after a year of going to OTF what their purpose is. The theory behind the workout is explained on your first visit, which is free.
Reasons to try Orangetheory Fitness:
  1. You need extra motivation. Coaches and fellow students are inspiring and helpful. They demo all exercises and come over to make adjustments when I am doing something incorrectly. It helps me get the most out of my hourlong workout.
  2. You want a personal trainer but don’t want to/can’t pay full price. Orangetheory classes are basically group training sessions. You have someone to guide you but you share with others!
  3. You get bored with your workouts. I go to Orangetheory never knowing what we will do. Some days are Endurance, some are Strength, some are Power, some are a combination and some are partner workouts. We even do what is called a Tornado during which we switch from station to station every minute! The studios switch up the schedule to kick us guessing, which means you won’t get tired of doing the same workout every time, and they constantly hold challenges and special events. (Mine even had a pajama movie night!)
  4. You’re short on time. You’ll love it if you want to get in and out of the gym in an hour, including stretching time, but you want a challenging workout. You will sweat and feel the burn at every session.
  5. You want to see results. I have added muscle in places I have never had before thanks to Orangetheory. I also lost some pounds, though I still have work to do to reach my fitness goals.

Bonus: Convenience. Orangetheory studios are popping up throughout the country. When I travel I look for a nearby location so I can squeeze in a workout. So far I have gone to OTF locations in Arizona, Illinois, Kentucky and Louisiana. I wanted to visit an Atlanta studio but the only class time that worked for me was full. Next time!

Photo courtesy of Orangetheory Fitness

Previous Orangetheory posts:

Thoughts I had during an Orangetheory Fitness class
More thoughts I had during an Orangetheory Fitness class
My first Orangetheory workout

Have you tried OTF? What’s your favorite workout right now?

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I Survived a Kickboxing Class

In August, I bought a three-class package to an ILoveKickboxing studio that was opening in the Bucktown neighborhood of Chicago. For $10, I got three kickboxing class and a pair of gloves; you can’t beat that deal! And yet, it’s now February and I just took my first class. What can I say? Life got in the way. …

I arrived for the 10:15 class at 9:45 to talk about my fitness goals, get my gloves and hear about the format of the class. I then went into the locker room to drop off my things (Bring a lock!) and take off my shoes. No shoes are allowed on the mats, and your water rests on the side of the mat.
For your first class you have a teacher’s helper who instructs you on the basics while the rest of the class does other moves. The class began with a warm up (running around the mat, side shuffles, burpees, etc.) and stretching. Then we did basics like jabs and roundhouse kicks, followed by partner workouts. The class finally ended with more burpees and squats (One partner held a squat while the other did three burpees; then we switched.). Finally, we stretch.
The instructing style is very much high intensity and loud. Students cheer, the teacher yells. I quickly discovered that kickboxing is quite difficult to learn. The instructor’s helper was great about giving tips and adjustments when needed. She was also super friendly and encouraging.

Overall, I enjoyed my first kickboxing class. Will I go every week? Probably not, but it’s worth incorporating into my fitness routine to tone up and get an amazing workout. I am just not the hollering and interacting type. I prefer more inner-self focused activities like running and yoga. That’s just my introverted self, though. If you love workout out in an interactive setting, kickboxing could be for you. I did, however, sign up for my next class, so my first impression could change. Also, if you’re stressed out and need to hit a punching bag, this could be for you. The studio was even planning an event to tape a picture of your ex (or something you don’t like anymore) onto the punching bag for a class.

How did I feel after class? Everything hurt. (haha!) I was sore, for sure, and the soreness occurred in parts of my body I am not used to being sore. I consider that I success.

Have you tried kickboxing?

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