(from Jenn)
(Guess I could stop adding that since I'm the only one who posts anyway...)
Well, after a few hiccups over the weekend (BW3 on Friday night, Chinese buffet on Sunday), Derek and I are both on track and doing well. We strategized over dinner on Sunday, and Derek committed to at least seven days with me, at which point we'll reevaluate and see if we need to change anything about the fast (e.g. juicing breakfast and lunch but eating a healthy dinner, or eating raw fruits and veggies along with juicing, or...). I've also been sending him with a second juice each day, so he has that in hand after school and can avoid the drive-thrus on his way home. I have to admit, it's getting easier just because I'm getting in the habit of not eating, but even more so because I know I have a partner in this journey. Thanks, hon, for hanging in there with me!
After the weekend, I didn't lose any weight for a couple of days, which makes sense. Yesterday, I finally went down a pound, and today I was down another 2.5, bringing my grand total to -12. Woo-hoo! My clothes are feeling a little loose, and I just feel good; excited to see how much more progress I can make over the next 2.5 weeks. :-)
However... This weekend we're celebrating our third anniversary at a bed and breakfast near Hocking Hills, where we got married. I have very mixed feelings about the trip because on the one hand, I'm doing great with the fast and don't want to mess it up or slow down my progress, but on the other hand, they have really yummy breakfasts there (which are already paid for in our room fees) and it's always been fun for us to go out to eat in the area. Not exactly sure how to play this one... We'll see. Regardless, it'll be AWESOME to get away for a few days with my honey!
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Eat, Fast, and Live Longer
(from Jenn)
One of the guys in our Facebook Reboot group has been posting different documentaries about health each day. Well, the one I watched yesterday, Eat, Fast, and Live Longer, was incredible. It followed a man with some health issues as he researched and experimented with different ways of eating (or not eating, as the case may be) to see how they affected his health.
Basically, what I took away from it was that several methods of adjusting our eating can greatly benefit our health:
Anyway, check out the video. It's really interesting stuff!
One of the guys in our Facebook Reboot group has been posting different documentaries about health each day. Well, the one I watched yesterday, Eat, Fast, and Live Longer, was incredible. It followed a man with some health issues as he researched and experimented with different ways of eating (or not eating, as the case may be) to see how they affected his health.
Basically, what I took away from it was that several methods of adjusting our eating can greatly benefit our health:
- We can reduce our overall caloric intake every day.
- We can completely fast for three days every month or two.
- We can incorporate intermittent fasting where we eat whatever we want one day and consume only one 500-calorie meal the next, ad naseum (or eat normally for five days and "fast" two).
Anyway, check out the video. It's really interesting stuff!
Friday, October 5, 2012
FYI...
For anyone just tuning in, check out this first post to understand what this blog was originally all about.
Juicing Journey
(from Jenn)
It's been awhile! We've been trying to say primal as much as possible, but whenever work would get crazy (e.g. working 75 hours in one week...) or something and I didn't have the time or energy to cook, we'd fall off the wagon again. So we decided to try something kind of drastic to kick start our efforts and get back on track, hopefully breaking our sugar and carb addictions in the process. What's that, you ask? Well, we're juicing!
Awhile back, we watched a film called Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead (you can watch it online here), which documented one man's 60-day journey toward health through juicing. At the time, Derek was pretty motivated and wanted to give it a try, though I thought just eating primally would get us where we needed to be. He said that if that didn't work, we should really consider the juicing option. And so, here we are. We agreed to do a 30-day juice-only fast/detox/cleanse/reboot.
We bought a juicer last week, along with tons of fresh fruits and veggies to juice. Then, I joined an online forum for people starting a 60-day (or 30-day, or whatever) juice fast on October 1, as well as a facebook group with many of the same people. And let me tell you: that group has been incredible! Whenever I have a question or feel tempted to quit or just want to share a particular experience, I know there are others out there who are listening, who understand, and who can help. They've been so supportive and encouraging! It's also nice because the general population doesn't really understand this whole juicing thing and probably thinks we're crazy, so it's always good to visit the forum or facebook group to not feel so alone.
Today, one guy said he made a list of 10 reasons he's doing this so that he can pull it out and remind himself when he's feeling weak. I thought that was a fabulous idea, so I decided to make my own list! In no particular order, I want...
It's been awhile! We've been trying to say primal as much as possible, but whenever work would get crazy (e.g. working 75 hours in one week...) or something and I didn't have the time or energy to cook, we'd fall off the wagon again. So we decided to try something kind of drastic to kick start our efforts and get back on track, hopefully breaking our sugar and carb addictions in the process. What's that, you ask? Well, we're juicing!
Awhile back, we watched a film called Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead (you can watch it online here), which documented one man's 60-day journey toward health through juicing. At the time, Derek was pretty motivated and wanted to give it a try, though I thought just eating primally would get us where we needed to be. He said that if that didn't work, we should really consider the juicing option. And so, here we are. We agreed to do a 30-day juice-only fast/detox/cleanse/reboot.
We bought a juicer last week, along with tons of fresh fruits and veggies to juice. Then, I joined an online forum for people starting a 60-day (or 30-day, or whatever) juice fast on October 1, as well as a facebook group with many of the same people. And let me tell you: that group has been incredible! Whenever I have a question or feel tempted to quit or just want to share a particular experience, I know there are others out there who are listening, who understand, and who can help. They've been so supportive and encouraging! It's also nice because the general population doesn't really understand this whole juicing thing and probably thinks we're crazy, so it's always good to visit the forum or facebook group to not feel so alone.
Today, one guy said he made a list of 10 reasons he's doing this so that he can pull it out and remind himself when he's feeling weak. I thought that was a fabulous idea, so I decided to make my own list! In no particular order, I want...
- to feel more comfortable and confident in my body so that I can have more fun on my beach vacation next month.
- to reboot my body so that it'll be easier to stick with the primal/paleo lifestyle I plan to maintain long-term.
- to treat my body as the temple that it is and to honor God with it (1 Cor. 6:19-20).
- to do everything I can to ensure I have a healthy pregnancy (when we start trying to start our family).
- to break unhealthy attitudes and habits now so that I don't pass those on to our children (when we have them).
- to renew my passion for God by spending more time with him, reading/studying the Word, praying, worshiping, etc.
- to make some progress toward getting in the kind of shape I'll need to be in if I want to take almost 2 hours off my Ironman time (which I do).
- to lose the weight I need to lose to see if I might have what it takes to be a bike racer.
- to show others that it IS possible to take control of your own health, and that that starts with eating clean.
- to get secksay!
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Inertia
(from Jenn)
Well, I was doing really well the last two weeks, but then... we had company and we went out of town. Starting last Thursday, we started eating crap, and we didn't really stop till yesterday. I also haven't worked out since Thursday, unless you count walking around the Pittsburgh Zoo.
I was so excited yesterday to get back to the gym and back in a routine. I was planning to take a 30-minute core class and then to spin for an hour. Unfortunately, work was crazy and traffic was terrible and I was five minutes late. And I didn't feel like waiting around for 45 minutes for the next class. And I was overwhelmed because the house was a mess, and I had stuff I needed to get done in the kitchen, and I still had to finish my work report... So I left. I bought some groceries and headed home, thinking I could finish my report and clean the kitchen and maybe go back to the gym for a swim or something. But when I was almost finished with the report, I lost all my info and had to start over. And by then I was crying. Not so much because of the stressful day, but mostly because I wasn't feeling very good about myself after our weekend of sloth and gluttony (a bit of an exaggeration, but still). And all I wanted to do was work out and it didn't happen.
And then today... I was planning to swim before a yoga class. But it was thunderstorming and the pool was closed. And I didn't really feel like going to the gym just for yoga. And I still had stuff to do around the house. So I didn't work out... again.
So basically, I'm demonstrating inertia. You know, an object at rest tends to stay at rest? Yeah. Now I just need to figure out how to overcome this...
Tomorrow, I have a ride to go to, which would normally be great, but what if it storms again and we can't ride? I need a SOLID back-up plan. Hmm...
Well, I was doing really well the last two weeks, but then... we had company and we went out of town. Starting last Thursday, we started eating crap, and we didn't really stop till yesterday. I also haven't worked out since Thursday, unless you count walking around the Pittsburgh Zoo.
I was so excited yesterday to get back to the gym and back in a routine. I was planning to take a 30-minute core class and then to spin for an hour. Unfortunately, work was crazy and traffic was terrible and I was five minutes late. And I didn't feel like waiting around for 45 minutes for the next class. And I was overwhelmed because the house was a mess, and I had stuff I needed to get done in the kitchen, and I still had to finish my work report... So I left. I bought some groceries and headed home, thinking I could finish my report and clean the kitchen and maybe go back to the gym for a swim or something. But when I was almost finished with the report, I lost all my info and had to start over. And by then I was crying. Not so much because of the stressful day, but mostly because I wasn't feeling very good about myself after our weekend of sloth and gluttony (a bit of an exaggeration, but still). And all I wanted to do was work out and it didn't happen.
And then today... I was planning to swim before a yoga class. But it was thunderstorming and the pool was closed. And I didn't really feel like going to the gym just for yoga. And I still had stuff to do around the house. So I didn't work out... again.
So basically, I'm demonstrating inertia. You know, an object at rest tends to stay at rest? Yeah. Now I just need to figure out how to overcome this...
Tomorrow, I have a ride to go to, which would normally be great, but what if it storms again and we can't ride? I need a SOLID back-up plan. Hmm...
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Feeling Strong
(from Jenn)
I had planned to swim Monday evening, but that didn't happen. At least I'd gotten my run in, though.
I had planned to do my time trial last night, but that didn't happen either. At least I'd lifted and swam in the morning, though.
And today I managed to run again and try an "athletic yoga" class at the gym tonight. I didn't make it there in time for a core class I wanted to check out, but two out of three ain't bad! And in between the run and the yoga, I had a pretty active day, too, cleaning my bikes and the house.
So, yeah! Feeling pretty good about my week so far. And I'm looking forward to a ride and some yoga by the pool tomorrow night, hopefully another swim on Friday, and one last run on Saturday. We will have company here, though, so I'm not sure if all of those will happen, but we'll see what I can do!
I had planned to swim Monday evening, but that didn't happen. At least I'd gotten my run in, though.
I had planned to do my time trial last night, but that didn't happen either. At least I'd lifted and swam in the morning, though.
And today I managed to run again and try an "athletic yoga" class at the gym tonight. I didn't make it there in time for a core class I wanted to check out, but two out of three ain't bad! And in between the run and the yoga, I had a pretty active day, too, cleaning my bikes and the house.
So, yeah! Feeling pretty good about my week so far. And I'm looking forward to a ride and some yoga by the pool tomorrow night, hopefully another swim on Friday, and one last run on Saturday. We will have company here, though, so I'm not sure if all of those will happen, but we'll see what I can do!
Monday, July 9, 2012
Just Go!
(from Jenn)
I'm still so sleepy...
My back hurts pretty bad...
I barely have time before work....
I rationalized. But then...
Stop thinking; just GO.
And I went. I ran/walked around the lake. My back hurt, and I barely had time to shower before my shift started, but I DID it. And I was glad I did.
I'm still so sleepy...
My back hurts pretty bad...
I barely have time before work....
I rationalized. But then...
Stop thinking; just GO.
And I went. I ran/walked around the lake. My back hurt, and I barely had time to shower before my shift started, but I DID it. And I was glad I did.
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Month of No Excuses
(from Jenn)
Well, my "week of no excuses" went reasonably well, especially workout-wise. So now I'm beginning a "month of no excuses" for July. I'm going to stick to my workout plans AND eating plans. There will be a few special occasions when I go off primal eating, but I'm planning for those. The rest of the time, I'm sticking to it, no excuses. I weighed myself this morning, but now I'm going to hide the scale and not check it again till August 1. I have GOT to start making progress or I might have to try something different. Vacation in a little over four months...
Well, my "week of no excuses" went reasonably well, especially workout-wise. So now I'm beginning a "month of no excuses" for July. I'm going to stick to my workout plans AND eating plans. There will be a few special occasions when I go off primal eating, but I'm planning for those. The rest of the time, I'm sticking to it, no excuses. I weighed myself this morning, but now I'm going to hide the scale and not check it again till August 1. I have GOT to start making progress or I might have to try something different. Vacation in a little over four months...
Back in the Water
(from Jenn)
Well, I didn't swim after teaching on Friday. I was really hungry and tired, so I figured I'd go home first for lunch and a nap, then go out to the gym later. Of course, that never works as planned... And actually, when I was contemplating whether I'd go or not, around 5:00, a crazy storm blew through. So I wouldn't have been able to swim at that time anyway. Oh, well. A day off never hurt anyone.
Yesterday morning, I met a friend for a bike ride. We planned to ride early to avoid the scorching temperatures, and I also wanted to be finished in time to hit the gym for an 11:00 yoga/pilates class. We only rode 27-28 miles, but we actually sought out hills, which I never do, so it was still a good workout. We rode on the bike trail for a bit, and it was crazy. There were so many branches and even whole trees across the path from the storm the night before. We had to stop and get off and pick up our bikes to step over the obstacles probably 5 or 6 times over 4 miles each direction. Felt like I was in cyclocross!
I did make it to the gym in time for the class, and it was good. I know I need to keep doing these classes because my core is SO weak and I really need to increase my flexibility. But it's so humbling! Oh, well. I'm going to aim for 2-3 yoga and/or pilates classes/DVD workouts each week, so hopefully I'll start seeing improvement soon.
After that, I had thought about trying that swim again, but I was tired and relaxed after yoga, so I just went home. I did, however, make myself go back to the gym later last night. I only had about 40-45 minutes before the outdoor pool closed, so I only swam just over a mile, but it felt really good! AND... I didn't feel sick afterward!!! My nose ran a little, but nothing like last time. I'm not sure why, what was different... Maybe because I'd pushed harder last time for my speed workout? I don't know. I think I'll keep it slower a few more times before trying more sprints and stuff, but at least I'm not afraid to get in the water anymore! That was a great time to swim, too; it was really quiet since it was only adult lap swimming at that hour. Nice! Just wish I'd had a little more time to chill in the hot tub or sauna afterward, but I had to get to Whole Foods before they closed...
This morning, I thought about taking a walk before our church's picnic, but I slept in a little more instead. So, probably another day off today, though I don't feel too bad about it since I did three workouts yesterday. :-)
Well, I didn't swim after teaching on Friday. I was really hungry and tired, so I figured I'd go home first for lunch and a nap, then go out to the gym later. Of course, that never works as planned... And actually, when I was contemplating whether I'd go or not, around 5:00, a crazy storm blew through. So I wouldn't have been able to swim at that time anyway. Oh, well. A day off never hurt anyone.
Yesterday morning, I met a friend for a bike ride. We planned to ride early to avoid the scorching temperatures, and I also wanted to be finished in time to hit the gym for an 11:00 yoga/pilates class. We only rode 27-28 miles, but we actually sought out hills, which I never do, so it was still a good workout. We rode on the bike trail for a bit, and it was crazy. There were so many branches and even whole trees across the path from the storm the night before. We had to stop and get off and pick up our bikes to step over the obstacles probably 5 or 6 times over 4 miles each direction. Felt like I was in cyclocross!
I did make it to the gym in time for the class, and it was good. I know I need to keep doing these classes because my core is SO weak and I really need to increase my flexibility. But it's so humbling! Oh, well. I'm going to aim for 2-3 yoga and/or pilates classes/DVD workouts each week, so hopefully I'll start seeing improvement soon.
After that, I had thought about trying that swim again, but I was tired and relaxed after yoga, so I just went home. I did, however, make myself go back to the gym later last night. I only had about 40-45 minutes before the outdoor pool closed, so I only swam just over a mile, but it felt really good! AND... I didn't feel sick afterward!!! My nose ran a little, but nothing like last time. I'm not sure why, what was different... Maybe because I'd pushed harder last time for my speed workout? I don't know. I think I'll keep it slower a few more times before trying more sprints and stuff, but at least I'm not afraid to get in the water anymore! That was a great time to swim, too; it was really quiet since it was only adult lap swimming at that hour. Nice! Just wish I'd had a little more time to chill in the hot tub or sauna afterward, but I had to get to Whole Foods before they closed...
This morning, I thought about taking a walk before our church's picnic, but I slept in a little more instead. So, probably another day off today, though I don't feel too bad about it since I did three workouts yesterday. :-)
Friday, June 29, 2012
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Gross Food
(from Jenn)
I just found this list of The 15 Grossest Things You're Eating. Yep, pretty disgusting! And it makes me so happy that we're trying to eat organic meats and cheeses and are avoiding packaged/processed foods. Check it out. What do you think the grossest things are?
I just found this list of The 15 Grossest Things You're Eating. Yep, pretty disgusting! And it makes me so happy that we're trying to eat organic meats and cheeses and are avoiding packaged/processed foods. Check it out. What do you think the grossest things are?
Don't Think, Just Do
(from Jenn)
I woke up this morning tired and started thinking of all the reasons I didn't need to go to the Functional Integrated Training class I was planning to attend at 8:30: sleep would be better for my body, I would already be riding and swimming this evening... But I've been to the class before, and I really liked it. Plus, I remembered how I'm trying to prioritize strength training, so I decided to just go. On the way to the gym, I realized that I can easily come up with a list of reasons NOT to work out on any particular day. So, if I'm going to succeed at this No Excuses thing, I need to not think about IF I should go and just GO. The class was good, too, and I'm glad I went. :-)
This evening, I went to my LTF Cycle Club ride in the 100-degree heat. I didn't want to go, but I felt obligated as a ride leader, even if I wasn't officially in charge tonight. Plus, I'd arranged with a couple of the other cyclists to swim afterward, and I WAS looking forward to getting in the pool after a hot ride. We rode slower than usual, averaging only 13.3 mph instead of about 15 on a typical night, and we made a few stops for cold water and just to regroup. But it was good, and again, I'm glad I went. Unfortunately... When we got back to the club, we learned that we couldn't swim after all because the indoor lap pool was closed for cleaning and the other two pools close at 9 p.m. So sad! But we'll try again next week.
There were a couple of new classes I was looking forward to trying tomorrow morning, pilates and a circuit class, but now I have to sub at the language school (which is good, 'cause we need the money). So, since I couldn't swim tonight, I think I'll stop at the gym after my classes for that. It'll feel good on another 100-degree day!
I woke up this morning tired and started thinking of all the reasons I didn't need to go to the Functional Integrated Training class I was planning to attend at 8:30: sleep would be better for my body, I would already be riding and swimming this evening... But I've been to the class before, and I really liked it. Plus, I remembered how I'm trying to prioritize strength training, so I decided to just go. On the way to the gym, I realized that I can easily come up with a list of reasons NOT to work out on any particular day. So, if I'm going to succeed at this No Excuses thing, I need to not think about IF I should go and just GO. The class was good, too, and I'm glad I went. :-)
This evening, I went to my LTF Cycle Club ride in the 100-degree heat. I didn't want to go, but I felt obligated as a ride leader, even if I wasn't officially in charge tonight. Plus, I'd arranged with a couple of the other cyclists to swim afterward, and I WAS looking forward to getting in the pool after a hot ride. We rode slower than usual, averaging only 13.3 mph instead of about 15 on a typical night, and we made a few stops for cold water and just to regroup. But it was good, and again, I'm glad I went. Unfortunately... When we got back to the club, we learned that we couldn't swim after all because the indoor lap pool was closed for cleaning and the other two pools close at 9 p.m. So sad! But we'll try again next week.
There were a couple of new classes I was looking forward to trying tomorrow morning, pilates and a circuit class, but now I have to sub at the language school (which is good, 'cause we need the money). So, since I couldn't swim tonight, I think I'll stop at the gym after my classes for that. It'll feel good on another 100-degree day!
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Week of No Excuses
(from Jenn)
So, Derek was crazy busy there for a bit with his short, but very intense, summer classes. Those ended last week, though, so he was really looking forward to having more time to get into a workout routine this week. I was also only scheduled for 4 hours of work this week, so we both realized we were out of excuses. It was ON!
I had a few goals going into this week: get back into practicing yoga a couple times a week, and get into a strength training routine. I can't afford a personal trainer right now like I'd really like, but I decided I'd try some new classes at the gym at least.
On Monday, I got up relatively early and made it to the gym for a yoga class at 8:30. Then I came home and did a run/walk around the lake. I walked down, ran/walked 1/1 around the 2.6-mile loop, then walked back up. I was thrilled to have all of that done before my work shift started at 11:30, especially since I was able to extend that to a full eight hours. If I hadn't gotten the workouts done early, I either wouldn't have been able to take the extra hours, which I desperately need right now, or I would have missed my workout(s). Lessons learned: 1) classes work because they have set start times, and 2) get it done early!
Yesterday, I went to a barbell strength class in the morning. I was supposed to ride with Derek in the evening, but he had a game he needed to cover, so I ended up going to my time trial. I barely got there on time, so I had no warm-up, but at least I got to ride. I could definitely feel that my legs were sore/tired after lifting that morning, but I didn't do TOO bad with a 30:26.
This morning, I was planning to take a yoga/pilates fusion class and then swim. However, sore from yesterdays barbell class, I decided to skip the yoga. I walk with Derek around the lake instead, and planned to swim before a meeting I have tonight. But now I've kind of run out of time for that... Plus, I'm still really scared to get back in the pool again since last Friday after my swim, my nose wouldn't stop running! I probably went through 2 boxes of tissues between Friday night and Saturday, and I had to miss my ride Saturday morning because of it. My nose was raw from all the blowing, too, which didn't feel very good. I have to ride tomorrow evening and swim afterward, so I didn't want to risk feeling sick again. But I do feel bad having only walked today, and I'm still contemplating doing a yoga DVD after my meeting tonight...
All in all, though, the week is going pretty well so far. Just need to stick with it and make July the Month of No Excuses!
So, Derek was crazy busy there for a bit with his short, but very intense, summer classes. Those ended last week, though, so he was really looking forward to having more time to get into a workout routine this week. I was also only scheduled for 4 hours of work this week, so we both realized we were out of excuses. It was ON!
I had a few goals going into this week: get back into practicing yoga a couple times a week, and get into a strength training routine. I can't afford a personal trainer right now like I'd really like, but I decided I'd try some new classes at the gym at least.
On Monday, I got up relatively early and made it to the gym for a yoga class at 8:30. Then I came home and did a run/walk around the lake. I walked down, ran/walked 1/1 around the 2.6-mile loop, then walked back up. I was thrilled to have all of that done before my work shift started at 11:30, especially since I was able to extend that to a full eight hours. If I hadn't gotten the workouts done early, I either wouldn't have been able to take the extra hours, which I desperately need right now, or I would have missed my workout(s). Lessons learned: 1) classes work because they have set start times, and 2) get it done early!
Yesterday, I went to a barbell strength class in the morning. I was supposed to ride with Derek in the evening, but he had a game he needed to cover, so I ended up going to my time trial. I barely got there on time, so I had no warm-up, but at least I got to ride. I could definitely feel that my legs were sore/tired after lifting that morning, but I didn't do TOO bad with a 30:26.
This morning, I was planning to take a yoga/pilates fusion class and then swim. However, sore from yesterdays barbell class, I decided to skip the yoga. I walk with Derek around the lake instead, and planned to swim before a meeting I have tonight. But now I've kind of run out of time for that... Plus, I'm still really scared to get back in the pool again since last Friday after my swim, my nose wouldn't stop running! I probably went through 2 boxes of tissues between Friday night and Saturday, and I had to miss my ride Saturday morning because of it. My nose was raw from all the blowing, too, which didn't feel very good. I have to ride tomorrow evening and swim afterward, so I didn't want to risk feeling sick again. But I do feel bad having only walked today, and I'm still contemplating doing a yoga DVD after my meeting tonight...
All in all, though, the week is going pretty well so far. Just need to stick with it and make July the Month of No Excuses!
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
A Healthy Relationship With Food
(from Jenn)
I read another article about food yesterday from USAT, but this was about developing a healthy relationship with food rather than suggestions about what or how or when to eat. Good tips, especially because this is something I struggle with. Anyway, just thought I'd share!
I read another article about food yesterday from USAT, but this was about developing a healthy relationship with food rather than suggestions about what or how or when to eat. Good tips, especially because this is something I struggle with. Anyway, just thought I'd share!
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Back At It
(from Jenn)
Well, after my embarrassing performance at the first time trial of the year last month, I've been afraid to go back. Sure, I said it was o.k. because I could only improve on my first time. But what if I didn't...? What if I couldn't? And so I stayed away.
But tonight I sucked it up and headed out. It was a cool, comfortable night, but a little windy. Peter (and a few others) rode earlier, and he said it sucked. Good, I thought. At least I'll have an excuse if I do terribly again.
But it wasn't that bad! I rode a 30:10, which isn't fast by any means, and which is still two minutes off my PR from last year, but it's a minute plus faster than my May time. I'll take it! I felt especially good about my effort on the last uphill stretch. I usually plan to push it hard there but have nothing left and have to just spin it out to the finish. But tonight I felt like I was able to maintain more power through the end. Felt good! In a painful kinda way. :-)
Well, after my embarrassing performance at the first time trial of the year last month, I've been afraid to go back. Sure, I said it was o.k. because I could only improve on my first time. But what if I didn't...? What if I couldn't? And so I stayed away.
But tonight I sucked it up and headed out. It was a cool, comfortable night, but a little windy. Peter (and a few others) rode earlier, and he said it sucked. Good, I thought. At least I'll have an excuse if I do terribly again.
But it wasn't that bad! I rode a 30:10, which isn't fast by any means, and which is still two minutes off my PR from last year, but it's a minute plus faster than my May time. I'll take it! I felt especially good about my effort on the last uphill stretch. I usually plan to push it hard there but have nothing left and have to just spin it out to the finish. But tonight I felt like I was able to maintain more power through the end. Felt good! In a painful kinda way. :-)
Monday, June 4, 2012
Real Food
(from Jenn)
A friend just had this article up on Facebook... Good stuff! Good reminder of what we need to be doing.
Sorry so silent lately. Been struggling a bit. Will get back to blogging more soon, though, promise!
A friend just had this article up on Facebook... Good stuff! Good reminder of what we need to be doing.
Sorry so silent lately. Been struggling a bit. Will get back to blogging more soon, though, promise!
Monday, May 14, 2012
Check!
(from Jenn)
Run? Check.
Swim? Check.
Make dinner for tomorrow? ...
Well, two out of three ain't bad!
I finally did my first 1.5-mile fit test run tonight. I had to take a few short walk breaks, but I felt o.k. with my time of 16:19 considering I don't think I've run at all since the Ironman. Pace was 11:53 min/mi. We'll see what I can do next week!
And after that, I went to the gym for another swim. I did pretty much the same workout as last Wednesday, and I was a little faster. I felt better in the water, too, so yay!
I was supposed to make tomorrow's dinner tonight as well, but it's way too late and I'm exhausted. I'm hoping to get back to the gym for a strength training class early tomorrow morning, and I can cook after that. Or just before work if I don't make it. We shall see!
Run? Check.
Swim? Check.
Make dinner for tomorrow? ...
Well, two out of three ain't bad!
I finally did my first 1.5-mile fit test run tonight. I had to take a few short walk breaks, but I felt o.k. with my time of 16:19 considering I don't think I've run at all since the Ironman. Pace was 11:53 min/mi. We'll see what I can do next week!
And after that, I went to the gym for another swim. I did pretty much the same workout as last Wednesday, and I was a little faster. I felt better in the water, too, so yay!
I was supposed to make tomorrow's dinner tonight as well, but it's way too late and I'm exhausted. I'm hoping to get back to the gym for a strength training class early tomorrow morning, and I can cook after that. Or just before work if I don't make it. We shall see!
Inspiration
(from Jenn)
Yeah, don't really feel like talking about how the rest of the weekend went... Choosing instead to focus on today and the rest of this journey. :-)
Found some cool images on pinterest, hoping they inspire you, too.
Yeah, don't really feel like talking about how the rest of the weekend went... Choosing instead to focus on today and the rest of this journey. :-)
Found some cool images on pinterest, hoping they inspire you, too.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Epic FAIL
(from Jenn)
When we first started planning this little six-month journey, we decided we wouldn't be eating out for awhile because there are just too many temptations in restaurants. But we didn't have a choice on this trip with my parents, so we viewed it as a kind of test. How did we do on day one? Well...
We were on the road most of the day, and we were doing well. We stopped at Bob Evans for lunch, and I had a cobb salad with grilled chicken. They brought out some hot, fresh rolls that came with it, and it was really hard to resist those (fresh-baked bread has always been a weakness of mine), but I gave them to my parents and went to the restroom while they ate them.
Derek was awesome, too. He skipped his favorite, pancakes, in favor of an omelet. It was supposed to come with hash browns, but he asked about other side options and eventually settled on green beans. I was so proud of him for finding something primal, even though green beans don't typically go with eggs and even though he didn't end up eating them since they were canned and not so tasty. When they brought out biscuits with his meal, we again gave those to my parents.
All in all, not an easy meal, but we survived!
Then came dinner...
We were in Lancaster County, PA, so my parents wanted to eat at an Amish restaurant. Many of those are well-known for their smorgasbords and desserts, but we thought it would actually be good to have a buffet with a lot of options; we'd just choose the meats and veggies. Haha, nice try.
I started with a salad, which was really tasty. By the time I was done with that, though, Derek had already concluded that staying primal just wasn't going to happen, not with the mac and cheese and HUGE dessert spread calling his name. And, I had to admit, the cheesecake looked mighty tasty!
When I went back to peruse the main course options, there wasn't much that looked appealing. I had a slice of roast beef au jus, a slice of turkey, and a couple meatballs, but I also got some buttered noodles and a little of the aforementioned mac and cheese. Oh, and a couple rolls since I'd missed out on those at lunch. Nothing was truly spectacular, but it was nice to taste some things I'd been missing.
Then I sampled a few desserts. The cheesecake was actually pretty bad. It had looked amazing, I think because I was remembering the cheesecake Derek got when we went to Bravo Italian restaurant a couple weeks ago, which I tasted and which was AH-MAZ-ING. This was nothing like that. Two bites was plenty. The apple pie a la mode and carrot cake were good, but still not fantastic.
So, yeah. Epic fail tonight. I ate way too much, was super uncomfortable as we left the restaurant, and my tummy didn't seem to appreciate all the crap I'd just ingested. I'm hoping that I remember this feeling next time I'm thinking of indulging, because truly, it just wasn't worth it.
And back to primal tomorrow.
When we first started planning this little six-month journey, we decided we wouldn't be eating out for awhile because there are just too many temptations in restaurants. But we didn't have a choice on this trip with my parents, so we viewed it as a kind of test. How did we do on day one? Well...
We were on the road most of the day, and we were doing well. We stopped at Bob Evans for lunch, and I had a cobb salad with grilled chicken. They brought out some hot, fresh rolls that came with it, and it was really hard to resist those (fresh-baked bread has always been a weakness of mine), but I gave them to my parents and went to the restroom while they ate them.
Derek was awesome, too. He skipped his favorite, pancakes, in favor of an omelet. It was supposed to come with hash browns, but he asked about other side options and eventually settled on green beans. I was so proud of him for finding something primal, even though green beans don't typically go with eggs and even though he didn't end up eating them since they were canned and not so tasty. When they brought out biscuits with his meal, we again gave those to my parents.
All in all, not an easy meal, but we survived!
Then came dinner...
We were in Lancaster County, PA, so my parents wanted to eat at an Amish restaurant. Many of those are well-known for their smorgasbords and desserts, but we thought it would actually be good to have a buffet with a lot of options; we'd just choose the meats and veggies. Haha, nice try.
I started with a salad, which was really tasty. By the time I was done with that, though, Derek had already concluded that staying primal just wasn't going to happen, not with the mac and cheese and HUGE dessert spread calling his name. And, I had to admit, the cheesecake looked mighty tasty!
When I went back to peruse the main course options, there wasn't much that looked appealing. I had a slice of roast beef au jus, a slice of turkey, and a couple meatballs, but I also got some buttered noodles and a little of the aforementioned mac and cheese. Oh, and a couple rolls since I'd missed out on those at lunch. Nothing was truly spectacular, but it was nice to taste some things I'd been missing.
Then I sampled a few desserts. The cheesecake was actually pretty bad. It had looked amazing, I think because I was remembering the cheesecake Derek got when we went to Bravo Italian restaurant a couple weeks ago, which I tasted and which was AH-MAZ-ING. This was nothing like that. Two bites was plenty. The apple pie a la mode and carrot cake were good, but still not fantastic.
So, yeah. Epic fail tonight. I ate way too much, was super uncomfortable as we left the restaurant, and my tummy didn't seem to appreciate all the crap I'd just ingested. I'm hoping that I remember this feeling next time I'm thinking of indulging, because truly, it just wasn't worth it.
And back to primal tomorrow.
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Back In the Water!
(from Jenn)
Well, Derek was still feeling pretty sore this morning from his run on Monday, so we decided to hold off on the fit test. Instead, I went swimming! I really think I've only been in the water two or three times since the Ironman, which was six months ago. So, yeah. It was a tough, and I was slow. But it actually felt really good to be back in the water, and I'm looking forward to going again! I only swam 1.25 miles, which took me about 50 minutes, but that's o.k. Gotta start somewhere!
Well, Derek was still feeling pretty sore this morning from his run on Monday, so we decided to hold off on the fit test. Instead, I went swimming! I really think I've only been in the water two or three times since the Ironman, which was six months ago. So, yeah. It was a tough, and I was slow. But it actually felt really good to be back in the water, and I'm looking forward to going again! I only swam 1.25 miles, which took me about 50 minutes, but that's o.k. Gotta start somewhere!
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Reality Check
(from Jenn)
Well, we got up a little late, so we didn't do our Fit Test Tuesday run or other exercises. (We plan to do them tomorrow now.) But I did go to my time trial for the first time of the year tonight, which will be another good way to gauge how I'm doing over the next few months.
Five pounds down from a week ago, I was feeling pretty good as I put my jersey on, and I started wondering how I'd do. I didn't expect a PR or anything (my current PR is 28:14 for the 10.25-mile course); I just wanted to be under 30:00.
I rode the course backwards as a warm-up, and I was feeling a little sluggish. I didn't push too hard, just kind of took it easy, and it took me about 32 minutes. I figured that I should be able to take a couple minutes off that time when I was actually going all out.
I was feeling really nervous as they called out the starting order, especially because I was number 14; I expected to be maybe 6 or 7 (they have you start according to your time, slowest riders first). I was dreading getting passed by a bunch of people... And, sure enough, it wasn't long before the first rider passed me. And then another. And another... I usually keep track of how many people pass me versus how many I pass, and I hope the two numbers are pretty even. To me, it seems like a good measure that I started where I should have in the line-up if I pass the same number of riders as pass me. Today, I think I passed 2 or 3, but I lost count of how many passed me. So I knew I wasn't doing very well.
I glanced at my watch as I crossed the finish line, and it was over 31:00. 31:27 to be exact, after they read off the times. Seriously?!? More than 3 minutes slower than I'd been last year? I know I'm heavier than I should be, but I'm no heavier than I was last year. And I know I haven't ridden that much lately, but I haven't been completely lazy either. And how could it be right that I only took 30 seconds or so off my warm-up even though I was pushing myself as hard as I could? Wow, that was BAAAAAD...
I tried to figure out what had happened, but I still don't really understand it. Have I really lost that much fitness since the Ironman? Or could it possibly have something to do with not eating carbs? Either way, it was an eye opener: I have a LOT of work to do! But hey, at least it can only get better from here, right? :-)
Well, we got up a little late, so we didn't do our Fit Test Tuesday run or other exercises. (We plan to do them tomorrow now.) But I did go to my time trial for the first time of the year tonight, which will be another good way to gauge how I'm doing over the next few months.
Five pounds down from a week ago, I was feeling pretty good as I put my jersey on, and I started wondering how I'd do. I didn't expect a PR or anything (my current PR is 28:14 for the 10.25-mile course); I just wanted to be under 30:00.
I rode the course backwards as a warm-up, and I was feeling a little sluggish. I didn't push too hard, just kind of took it easy, and it took me about 32 minutes. I figured that I should be able to take a couple minutes off that time when I was actually going all out.
I was feeling really nervous as they called out the starting order, especially because I was number 14; I expected to be maybe 6 or 7 (they have you start according to your time, slowest riders first). I was dreading getting passed by a bunch of people... And, sure enough, it wasn't long before the first rider passed me. And then another. And another... I usually keep track of how many people pass me versus how many I pass, and I hope the two numbers are pretty even. To me, it seems like a good measure that I started where I should have in the line-up if I pass the same number of riders as pass me. Today, I think I passed 2 or 3, but I lost count of how many passed me. So I knew I wasn't doing very well.
I glanced at my watch as I crossed the finish line, and it was over 31:00. 31:27 to be exact, after they read off the times. Seriously?!? More than 3 minutes slower than I'd been last year? I know I'm heavier than I should be, but I'm no heavier than I was last year. And I know I haven't ridden that much lately, but I haven't been completely lazy either. And how could it be right that I only took 30 seconds or so off my warm-up even though I was pushing myself as hard as I could? Wow, that was BAAAAAD...
I tried to figure out what had happened, but I still don't really understand it. Have I really lost that much fitness since the Ironman? Or could it possibly have something to do with not eating carbs? Either way, it was an eye opener: I have a LOT of work to do! But hey, at least it can only get better from here, right? :-)
Inspiration
(from Jenn)
I just saw this story through my weekly USAT email, and I have to say, I'm inspired! This lady went from 285 pounds to 125 in less than two years and began competing in triathlons. She's now on Team USA.
A lot of triathletes (myself included) enter the sport after making huge life changes, losing weight, etc. I always assumed that most of us could become better athletes by getting in better shape, but I never would have imagined that anyone 150+ pounds overweight could go on to become an Olympic-caliber or professional athlete!
Earlier today, I canceled our Tempe, AZ, hotel reservations and requested a withdrawal and partial refund for our IM entries. But I'm pretty sure I'll be back - maybe not to Arizona, but somewhere - because I really want to see how much better I can do when I lose the extra weight.
Just the encouragement I needed today!
I just saw this story through my weekly USAT email, and I have to say, I'm inspired! This lady went from 285 pounds to 125 in less than two years and began competing in triathlons. She's now on Team USA.
A lot of triathletes (myself included) enter the sport after making huge life changes, losing weight, etc. I always assumed that most of us could become better athletes by getting in better shape, but I never would have imagined that anyone 150+ pounds overweight could go on to become an Olympic-caliber or professional athlete!
Earlier today, I canceled our Tempe, AZ, hotel reservations and requested a withdrawal and partial refund for our IM entries. But I'm pretty sure I'll be back - maybe not to Arizona, but somewhere - because I really want to see how much better I can do when I lose the extra weight.
Just the encouragement I needed today!
Monday, May 7, 2012
Not Myself
(from Jenn)
Speaking of normal... I'm not feeling it!
Not sure why, but I just haven't felt like myself for awhile. I'm riding, but I haven't been very good about running and/or walking, and I can't remember the last time I swam. I just have absolutely no desire or motivation to get in the pool, and I don't know why...
Actually, I feel a bit like I did after my Ironman. Once it was over, I got a little depressed, because the goal I'd been working toward for a year had come and gone, and there was nothing on the horizon to look forward to. Of course, two weeks later we signed up for IMAZ, and that helped a little, but now we've accepted that that's not going to happen and I think I'm grieving the loss.
Only I don't think I really have accepted it... I think in the back of my mind I'm still dreaming of it, visualizing it, holding out hope that maybe, just maybe...
But Derek still doesn't know how to swim. Neither of us has made much progress toward our weight loss goals (though we're on the right track with this challenge!). We really don't have the money to get him all the gear he'd need, or pay for our travel expenses out there. And now we're going on vacation with my family earlier in November, so Derek won't be able to take any more time off from student teaching.
Yeah, not gonna happen. And I'm sad. Because I don't feel like myself.
So, what should I do? Sign up for another race perhaps? Hmm...
Speaking of normal... I'm not feeling it!
Not sure why, but I just haven't felt like myself for awhile. I'm riding, but I haven't been very good about running and/or walking, and I can't remember the last time I swam. I just have absolutely no desire or motivation to get in the pool, and I don't know why...
Actually, I feel a bit like I did after my Ironman. Once it was over, I got a little depressed, because the goal I'd been working toward for a year had come and gone, and there was nothing on the horizon to look forward to. Of course, two weeks later we signed up for IMAZ, and that helped a little, but now we've accepted that that's not going to happen and I think I'm grieving the loss.
Only I don't think I really have accepted it... I think in the back of my mind I'm still dreaming of it, visualizing it, holding out hope that maybe, just maybe...
But Derek still doesn't know how to swim. Neither of us has made much progress toward our weight loss goals (though we're on the right track with this challenge!). We really don't have the money to get him all the gear he'd need, or pay for our travel expenses out there. And now we're going on vacation with my family earlier in November, so Derek won't be able to take any more time off from student teaching.
Yeah, not gonna happen. And I'm sad. Because I don't feel like myself.
So, what should I do? Sign up for another race perhaps? Hmm...
Sunday, May 6, 2012
Special Days
(from Jenn)
Last week didn't start out exactly as planned, what with driving all morning on Monday, not getting into a good sleep routine, etc., and this week is going to be different with a road trip with my parents. But we're hoping to have special tasks or activities on certain days each week:
On Measurement Monday, we'll weigh in and measure our bodies.
On Fit Test Tuesday, we'll run and do sit-ups, push-ups, etc., to evaluate our fitness progress.
On Workout Wednesday, we'll make it a priority to work out together.
On Fun Day Friday, we'll prepare a new recipe together, then do something fun like play racquetball, watch a movie, etc.
That's all we have for now, but if anyone has ideas for Thursday, Saturday or Sunday, we could use your help!
Last week didn't start out exactly as planned, what with driving all morning on Monday, not getting into a good sleep routine, etc., and this week is going to be different with a road trip with my parents. But we're hoping to have special tasks or activities on certain days each week:
On Measurement Monday, we'll weigh in and measure our bodies.
On Fit Test Tuesday, we'll run and do sit-ups, push-ups, etc., to evaluate our fitness progress.
On Workout Wednesday, we'll make it a priority to work out together.
On Fun Day Friday, we'll prepare a new recipe together, then do something fun like play racquetball, watch a movie, etc.
That's all we have for now, but if anyone has ideas for Thursday, Saturday or Sunday, we could use your help!
Friday, May 4, 2012
Struggles...
(from Jenn)
Overall, I've done really well this week! I've stuck to my plan eating-wise, and I feel great.
However... I'm struggling in two ways. First, I've been going to bed WAY too late every night. Like, well past midnight, when I want to be in bed by nine or ten. So I've been really tired, naturally, and I've also missed workouts as a result. So, since the food part seems to be easier, I'm planning to focus on getting to bed on time over the next two weeks.
The other major struggle for me so far has been fruit. I'm craving fruit like you wouldn't believe! Whenever we tried to eat/live primal-ly in the past, I think I relied on fruit to satisfy my desire for something sweet. So even though fruit isn't bad in and of itself, I think it's important that I keep it out of my diet for now. I also wouldn't trust myself to eat it in moderation at this point, but hopefully by going several months without it, I'll be able to appreciate and enjoy small amounts more easily.
Overall, I've done really well this week! I've stuck to my plan eating-wise, and I feel great.
However... I'm struggling in two ways. First, I've been going to bed WAY too late every night. Like, well past midnight, when I want to be in bed by nine or ten. So I've been really tired, naturally, and I've also missed workouts as a result. So, since the food part seems to be easier, I'm planning to focus on getting to bed on time over the next two weeks.
The other major struggle for me so far has been fruit. I'm craving fruit like you wouldn't believe! Whenever we tried to eat/live primal-ly in the past, I think I relied on fruit to satisfy my desire for something sweet. So even though fruit isn't bad in and of itself, I think it's important that I keep it out of my diet for now. I also wouldn't trust myself to eat it in moderation at this point, but hopefully by going several months without it, I'll be able to appreciate and enjoy small amounts more easily.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Exhausted!
(from Jenn)
I was off work today, and I really enjoyed sleeping in. But that meant that we had a late breakfast. Which meant that we weren't ready for lunch till late afternoon. And by late afternoon, I realized I was running out of time, because I had to lead a ride for my gym's cycle club this evening. I had planned to grill bison burgers and balsamic-herb marinated veggies for lunch, then just have a salad later after my ride, but that didn't quite work out. I started the grill, prepped the food, and got it on the grill, but then I had to leave before it was finished. Which meant that I didn't have time to eat before my ride.
I wasn't really hungry since I'd snacked on some almonds and an avocado earlier, but I was a little afraid that I'd feel weak and tired during the ride. The ride actually went well, and I felt fine, so yay! But when I got home, I put some food in the microwave then came in to turn on my computer, and I suddenly felt really dizzy. I had to lie down on the floor for a minute. It passed quickly, I got up and ate my dinner (which was really tasty, by the way), but it was just a good reminder that I need to be more careful about timing and fueling properly for workouts. And it'd be good if I had some more snack-y foods on hand that I could grab on my way out if I'm running late.
Not sure if anyone's actually reading this blog yet, but if anyone who follows a primal/paleo lifestyle is, do you have any suggestions for quick energy foods I could keep around for days like this? I've got nuts and cut-up raw veggies, but I could use a few more ideas. Thanks!
I was off work today, and I really enjoyed sleeping in. But that meant that we had a late breakfast. Which meant that we weren't ready for lunch till late afternoon. And by late afternoon, I realized I was running out of time, because I had to lead a ride for my gym's cycle club this evening. I had planned to grill bison burgers and balsamic-herb marinated veggies for lunch, then just have a salad later after my ride, but that didn't quite work out. I started the grill, prepped the food, and got it on the grill, but then I had to leave before it was finished. Which meant that I didn't have time to eat before my ride.
I wasn't really hungry since I'd snacked on some almonds and an avocado earlier, but I was a little afraid that I'd feel weak and tired during the ride. The ride actually went well, and I felt fine, so yay! But when I got home, I put some food in the microwave then came in to turn on my computer, and I suddenly felt really dizzy. I had to lie down on the floor for a minute. It passed quickly, I got up and ate my dinner (which was really tasty, by the way), but it was just a good reminder that I need to be more careful about timing and fueling properly for workouts. And it'd be good if I had some more snack-y foods on hand that I could grab on my way out if I'm running late.
Not sure if anyone's actually reading this blog yet, but if anyone who follows a primal/paleo lifestyle is, do you have any suggestions for quick energy foods I could keep around for days like this? I've got nuts and cut-up raw veggies, but I could use a few more ideas. Thanks!
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Sugar Addict
(from Derek)
It’s me. I’m the culprit. Jenn might tell you
differently, but the reason why we’re going extreme with this is simple: I’m
addicted to sugar. Even the past three days without sugar have been difficult.
Seriously, it’s like crack for me mentally. I know that I’m going to have
better days, but they aren’t here yet. I never want a type of food to have
control over me, and that’s what sugar has been.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Thwarted By Thunderstorms
(from Jenn)
Well, the time trial was actually canceled tonight because of thunderstorms in the area. I thought about swimming instead, but they close the pool in this weather, too. So, maybe some strength training and a spin class? Naw... It was raining too hard to want to go out.
So we stayed in, had a yummy dinner of Coconut Milk and Spinach Soup with Curried Shrimp, and watched Food, Inc. together. Awesome flick, which I'll talk more about at some point...
Well, the time trial was actually canceled tonight because of thunderstorms in the area. I thought about swimming instead, but they close the pool in this weather, too. So, maybe some strength training and a spin class? Naw... It was raining too hard to want to go out.
So we stayed in, had a yummy dinner of Coconut Milk and Spinach Soup with Curried Shrimp, and watched Food, Inc. together. Awesome flick, which I'll talk more about at some point...
Monday, April 30, 2012
And... We're Off!
(from Jenn)
Good first day! We were on the road from Akron to Cincinnati this morning, but we didn't do any of our normal snacking. Honestly, it made me sad to see cups of fresh fruit that I couldn't eat at the gas station we stopped at, but I survived.
After work, I got a walk in while Derek went to Vision MMA to learn some jiu-jitsu with a friend of his. For dinner, I sauteed some cabbage with sausage. It was delish and super quick/easy to make! Derek wasn't quite as excited about it, but he's really good about eating whatever I fix.
And... I should be in bed now, but that obviously didn't happen. Guess I won't be going to the gym in the morning like I'd hoped, but I suppose that's o.k. since I have my first time trial tomorrow night. Still, I know that sleep is going to be a key factor in the success or failure of this quest; I just need to figure out HOW to get into a better routine with that... Suggestions anyone?
Good first day! We were on the road from Akron to Cincinnati this morning, but we didn't do any of our normal snacking. Honestly, it made me sad to see cups of fresh fruit that I couldn't eat at the gas station we stopped at, but I survived.
After work, I got a walk in while Derek went to Vision MMA to learn some jiu-jitsu with a friend of his. For dinner, I sauteed some cabbage with sausage. It was delish and super quick/easy to make! Derek wasn't quite as excited about it, but he's really good about eating whatever I fix.
And... I should be in bed now, but that obviously didn't happen. Guess I won't be going to the gym in the morning like I'd hoped, but I suppose that's o.k. since I have my first time trial tomorrow night. Still, I know that sleep is going to be a key factor in the success or failure of this quest; I just need to figure out HOW to get into a better routine with that... Suggestions anyone?
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Challenges and Safeguards
(from Jenn)
I mentioned earlier that we faced challenges when we first started trying to eat primal. For example:
I mentioned earlier that we faced challenges when we first started trying to eat primal. For example:
- Healthy, whole foods cost more.
- Cooking every night gets tiring, and I lose all resolve to eat right when I'm tired.
- We have no will power when it comes to certain foods.
- Most people don't understand what we're doing or why.
- Remember that quality is worth the cost. Choose to spend our food budget on quality ingredients for home cooking instead of eating out.
- Freeze leftovers to have on hand for nights we're too exhausted to cook.
- We are pretty much addicted to sugar. So we've chosen to cut out all sweeteners in addition to actual refined sugar, and we're even avoiding fruit for now.
- We are in this together. We know we have to stay strong for each other.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Rewards!
(from Jenn)
Six months is a long time to go without breaking the rules at all, yet that's our goal. If we really do it, I'm sure our greatest reward will just be how good we look and feel. But I thought we should have a few interim rewards built in to help us along the way. Here's what we came up with:
After one month:
Derek gets to take me to a sporting event of his choice.
I get to go to the Smoky Mountains for biking or backpacking (if I can find people to go with).
After three months:
Derek and I each get $100 to spend on whatever we want.
After the full six months:
We each get to buy a new wardrobe, because we should really need it by then!
Oh, and I seem to remember something Derek said last year about getting me some race wheels if/when I get to my goal weight... :-)
Six months is a long time to go without breaking the rules at all, yet that's our goal. If we really do it, I'm sure our greatest reward will just be how good we look and feel. But I thought we should have a few interim rewards built in to help us along the way. Here's what we came up with:
After one month:
Derek gets to take me to a sporting event of his choice.
I get to go to the Smoky Mountains for biking or backpacking (if I can find people to go with).
After three months:
Derek and I each get $100 to spend on whatever we want.
After the full six months:
We each get to buy a new wardrobe, because we should really need it by then!
Oh, and I seem to remember something Derek said last year about getting me some race wheels if/when I get to my goal weight... :-)
Friday, April 27, 2012
The Whats and Whys
(from Jenn)
I first started thinking about eating differently after reading an article in my USA Triathlon weekly email (I believe it was this one). It was aimed at endurance athletes, and it talked about the benefits of switching to a paleolithic diet. I was surprised at first to read about a low-carb diet for athletes, since you usually hear about how much these athletes rely on carbohydrates to fuel their long and intense workouts. But I was intrigued.
After doing a little more research, I ended up buying a few books about Mark Sisson's Primal Blueprint rather than Loren Cordain's paleo diet, but the main principles of both are the same: Avoid all the highly processed crap of today's Standard American Diet (SAD) and eat like our ancient ancestors ate. Why? Because our bodies weren't designed to eat the crap that surrounds us today, and those things are making us fat and sick.
The Primal Blueprint is supposed to be more of a lifestyle than a diet, including several principles for exercising and general healthy living, which is one reason it appealed to me more than the paleo diet. These are the ten Primal Blueprint laws:
So, why six months? Well, I recently read about a study in which researchers were trying to break kids of their sugar cravings. In most cases, it took 12 to 18 months. We weren't quite ready to commit to a year or more, but we thought six months would be a pretty good start. At that point, we can reevaluate. Hopefully, we'll just keep on keeping on because we're feeling so good!
I first started thinking about eating differently after reading an article in my USA Triathlon weekly email (I believe it was this one). It was aimed at endurance athletes, and it talked about the benefits of switching to a paleolithic diet. I was surprised at first to read about a low-carb diet for athletes, since you usually hear about how much these athletes rely on carbohydrates to fuel their long and intense workouts. But I was intrigued.
After doing a little more research, I ended up buying a few books about Mark Sisson's Primal Blueprint rather than Loren Cordain's paleo diet, but the main principles of both are the same: Avoid all the highly processed crap of today's Standard American Diet (SAD) and eat like our ancient ancestors ate. Why? Because our bodies weren't designed to eat the crap that surrounds us today, and those things are making us fat and sick.
The Primal Blueprint is supposed to be more of a lifestyle than a diet, including several principles for exercising and general healthy living, which is one reason it appealed to me more than the paleo diet. These are the ten Primal Blueprint laws:
- Eat plants and animals.
- Avoid poisonous things.
- Move frequently at a slow pace.
- Lift heavy things.
- Sprint once in a while.
- Get adequate sleep.
- Play.
- Get adequate sunlight.
- Avoid stupid mistakes.
- Use your brain.
So, why six months? Well, I recently read about a study in which researchers were trying to break kids of their sugar cravings. In most cases, it took 12 to 18 months. We weren't quite ready to commit to a year or more, but we thought six months would be a pretty good start. At that point, we can reevaluate. Hopefully, we'll just keep on keeping on because we're feeling so good!
Thursday, April 26, 2012
What is normal?
(from Jenn)
Two thirds of all Americans are overweight or obese. Fat is normal in our society. Dieting is normal in our society. Failing to lose weight and keep it off is normal in our society.
Unfortunately, we are normal.
Like so many Americans, we have been stuck in a vicious cycle of dieting and falling off the wagon for years, and it has left us feeling frustrated, guilty, afraid of failing again, hopeless.
But we've been learning a lot about how our bodies work, what makes us fat, etc., and we are embarking on a sixth-month quest to find a new "normal." We realize it'll probably take longer than six months to break all our bad habits and form new lifelong habits of good health, but this is the first step. We are committed to doing it right this time, and we are taking every step we can think of to ensure success.
Which is why we've started this blog. We believe that publicly proclaiming our goals, our "rules," our progress, and our triumphs will help keep us accountable. Stay tuned for more details than you ever wanted to know about this incredible journey of ours!
Two thirds of all Americans are overweight or obese. Fat is normal in our society. Dieting is normal in our society. Failing to lose weight and keep it off is normal in our society.
Unfortunately, we are normal.
Like so many Americans, we have been stuck in a vicious cycle of dieting and falling off the wagon for years, and it has left us feeling frustrated, guilty, afraid of failing again, hopeless.
But we've been learning a lot about how our bodies work, what makes us fat, etc., and we are embarking on a sixth-month quest to find a new "normal." We realize it'll probably take longer than six months to break all our bad habits and form new lifelong habits of good health, but this is the first step. We are committed to doing it right this time, and we are taking every step we can think of to ensure success.
Which is why we've started this blog. We believe that publicly proclaiming our goals, our "rules," our progress, and our triumphs will help keep us accountable. Stay tuned for more details than you ever wanted to know about this incredible journey of ours!
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