Category Archives: Fitness

Sunday Run Day

Posted on by

7

I hope everyone is enjoying the weekend. So far, mine has been filled with writing, studying, visiting Brooklyn (naturally), watching NINE episodes of The Following, and a long run with friends.

Does anyone watch The Following? I was hesitant to check it out as I’m a scared-y cat. After watching the pilot episode, I literally peeked behind the shower curtain while brushing my teeth before bed. Also, I will only sleep facing the stairwell to my loft so I can keep an eye out for any intruders. Honestly, I probably shouldn’t watch shows that get under my skin. I should stick to Hart of Dixie. Sadly, Hart of Dixie is on hiatus until April 9th. Back to my original point, I’m a fan of Kevin Bacon. I fell in love with his character while watching this show. James Purefoy, who portrays a serial killer, is quite charming and alluring. This makes it all the more freakish and alarming. They’ve put together quite the ensemble cast.

This morning I ran 9 miles with my friends in Central Park in preparation for an upcoming half-marathon on April 14th. We felt strong throughout and time flew by, as usual, since we were chatting away and catching up during most of the run.

CP

My friend Irene kindly provided us with Clif SHOT Bloks. I enjoyed the taste as I felt like I was eating gummy bears. It gave me just the energy boost I needed to push through to the end. I’ll be using these again on race day. I like the fact that they are mostly organic and contain ingredients I can recognize.

photo-104

I always feel fantastic after a long run. It’s such a sense of accomplishment and I enjoy feeling spent, tired and sweaty. I know I’ve done something great for myself for the day. Long distance running makes me happy.

20130317-215400(source)

Here are some of my favorite songs I like to zone out to while running the distance, when I’m on my own and not with friends:

Katy Perry – Wide Awake (This reminds me of a recent girls weekend where a bunch of us were getting ready to go out on the town.)

Alicia Keys – Try Sleeping With a Broken Heart (This reminds of a coffee shop in Williamsburg, Brooklyn I currently frequent for study sessions with a friend. I discovered this song while there one morning.)

Rihanna – Umbrella

David Bowie & Queen – Under Pressure

M83 – Midnight City

Run-DMC – Walk This Way (This reminds me of a race in Central Park a few years ago where I ran an 8:09 pace, one of my fastest paces ever.)

Wotlie – Then You’ll Know (This reminds me of last summer on July 4th when I realized I’m completely in love with yoga.)

Imagine Dragons – It’s Time (The minute this song comes on, excitement and joy overtake me. It’s just one of those songs.)

The Lumineers – Ho Hey (This reminds me of the fun-loving show Hart of Dixie.)

Mumford & Sons – I Will Wait (This song breaks my heart every time.)

Semisonic – Closing Time (This reminds me of the movie Friends With Benefits.)

Coldplay – Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall (This reminds me of last summer. It was magical.)

What are some of your favorite running songs? I’m always looking to create new playlists.

Quote of the Day:

This is a good one to remember. I just came across this while reading a good post from The Better Man Project. I used to always think it was a statement about me. Since I’ve built my confidence level, I’m much better about not taking things personally anymore. We can only control ourselves and our actions, not those of others.

481980_480656095322935_1358292003_n-1-1

(source)

A Race and Unexpected Feelings

Posted on by

2

Last night while preparing my race gear for this morning, I decided things were going to stay simple. I picked out a cute outfit to raise my excitement level (my Mom’s suggestion) and finalized my playlist. I would walk to the start line in the morning and pick up a coffee along the way. All went as planned. This morning, I stood in my corral at 7:00am waiting for the 7:30am start time for the NYC Half Marathon. I brought my phone with me as I didn’t check baggage, so I was tweeting while waiting. It helped to keep my mind off the bitter cold wind that would sweep through on occasion. My plan was to run slow and steady the entire way. And that I did.

IMG_1628

Walking up 5th Avenue pre-race

I was a little hesitant going in to this race. I was feeling very tired of running for a few months prior to today. I basically did not train for this race. Instead, I’ve thrown myself into yoga. I just needed to get away from running for the time being. Since I got into this race through luck of the lottery and also paid my fee, I didn’t want to waste my money and not run. I also don’t like running races I haven’t trained for it makes me feel like a fraud. I haven’t put in the work. This isn’t the first time this has happened. Nonetheless, I planned on winging it. I knew I wasn’t out for a personal record and I also knew I would probably land on the slower side as far as my finish time. ‘Twas the case.

IMG_1629

Running toward Times Square

But, you know what? While running the course today, I stayed strong. I felt good. I enjoyed myself. This was a pleasant surprise. Running this race brought back the love of running that consumed me previously. Suddenly I was that gal again saying, “I’m a runner for life. I’ll be running when I’m 95.” It was refreshing and a bit of a relief.

IMG_1630

Still on our way to Times Square

I enjoyed each moment of my race. My music was the perfect partner. I took pictures while running through Times Square. I stopped at the fluid stations to refuel with Gatorade to avoid crashing and burning. At one point while running down the West Side Highway I realized that I wouldn’t think about the fact that I didn’t train. I wasn’t going to beat myself up anymore because I’m human. Why does it have to be that I can only train properly for a race or I’m not worthy of participating in that race? No more of this rationale. I was feeling good and that was all that mattered. It was mind over matter from that point forward.

IMG_1632

Times Square finally visible

During the last two miles I began to fade. I had to push through to the end. Rihanna on repeat definitely helped my situation. I did manage to have enough energy to pick up my pace to the finish. It was nice to remember that sense of accomplishment after you’ve crossed the finish line.

IMG_1633

I was proud of myself for keeping a positive mindset and simply enjoying the race morning in its entirety.

IMG_1635

This got me thinking about my next race, the More Magazine / Fitness Magazine Women’s Half Marathon on April 14th. I realize there isn’t time to follow a full training plan at this point, but I did some research and came up with a plan for the next four weeks through Women’s Health:

Monday: Complete rest or cross training (45 to 60 minutes at an easy to moderate effort)

Tuesday: 3 to 4 miles easy running

Wednesday: 6 to 7 miles easy running*

Thursday: Off day or 3 to 4 miles easy running

Friday: Cross training (45 to 60 minutes at an easy to moderate effort)

Saturday: 3 to 4 miles easy running**

Sunday: Long run! (Starting at 7 to 8 miles, increasing by one mile each week, up to 10 to 11 miles the Sunday before the race)

*5 to 6 miles during week one, and 3 to 4 during week four. Andrew suggested dropping this if I was feeling intimidated or overwhelmed by the mileage.
**2 miles easy running during week four (aka the day before the race).

After my April race, I don’t have any races on calendar until the NYC Marathon in November. My training begins this July. I want to be sure to have fresh legs and an excited spirit when the time comes. In the meantime, I’ll continue my love affair with yoga.

As a final thought, I noticed different feelings arise this afternoon while I had my legs up and resting. This race seemed to trigger many running memories from my past. I still think fondly of so many of those experiences which are in the distance. When I run through Central Park, or through the streets of Manhattan, or down the West Side Highway, the instances pop into my mind as if they were here and now. I can close my eyes and think of them, even for just one second. Some of these moments take our breath away and make us feel truly alive. They’ll always be ours to keep.

Quote of the day:

“You will find, as you look back upon your life, that the moments when you really lived are the moments when you have done things in the spirit of love.” – Henry Drummond

 

Falling in Love with Yourself

Posted on by

0

This past weekend I ran the River to Sea Relay with friends in New Jersey. It was 92 miles and ended at the beach in Manasquan. Each team member (7 in total) ran two legs and we were divided among two cars. Lots of laughs and memorable moments ensued.

I had the pleasure of running the last leg (as my second leg) of the race. The weather was breezy and beautiful by that time. I was happy to know I was running toward the beach, one of my favorite spots to hang out.

It was a long day. We were up at 4:00am and I didn’t arrive back home until nearly midnight. It was well worth it. In addition to catching up with many of my running buddies, I also made new friends along the way.

During my trip, I was introduced to two songs in which I downloaded immediately and have since continuously played on repeat – “Just Breathe” by Pearl Jam and “Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall” by Coldplay. LOVE.

While still on the topic of running, here is what my schedule looks like for the week.

New York City Marathon Training – Week Five

Monday: rest day
Tuesday: group running class – speed training intervals, etc.
Wednesday: yoga
Thursday: 40 minute easy-paced run
Friday: yoga
Saturday: 13 mile run
Sunday: yoga

This past Sunday morning began with my typical breakfast and coffee.

Later that day (after yoga class) I went on a bike riding adventure through Central Park with a friend.

Sunday Funday

I’m still taking advantage of every ounce of summer. It’s not over ’til it’s over.

I was reading this post recently when it caught my eye, since I am considering a yoga teaching training program next year. A few sentences the author stated really stood out for me in terms of life in general:

Becoming yourself means that everything that is not in alignment with the truth of who you are, whether internal or external, whether your mind is on board with it or not, will go away. This can be excruciating.

But becoming yourself also means that you get to have you. Which is better than anything else in the world. And also scary. And hugely vulnerable.

Let your heart break for all that you’re losing and all that you’re scared of. But also let it crack open with the profound joy of falling in love with who you really are.

I know of nothing more beautiful or terrifying.

I can relate to losing a life you wanted more than anything, going through the process, and experiencing the notion of falling in love with who you really are as a person.

Quote of the day:

                                                                                                 Source: piccsy.com via Becky on Pinterest

Making Summer Memories

Posted on by

0

I most especially look forward to my Sunday morning yoga class. This morning was no different. After running a race yesterday, it felt swell to stretch out on the mat.

I feel like I’ve been saying this often, but this past weekend has been one of those perfect NYC summer weekends. A dear friend was in town visiting and it was exactly like old times, from when she used to live here in New York a few years ago.

The festivities began on Friday with a dinner picnic in Central Park (with a group of friends) to listen to the NY Philharmonic. There were fireworks after the concert. Does it get any better than that for me? This is the second fireworks show I’ve seen this month. Summer celebrations = pure happiness.

Setting up for the concert.

Thousands of New Yorkers on the Great Lawn.

Saturday marked my first race in Central Park since January. I ran three miles before the race since I needed to complete seven miles total per my marathon training plan. I used this as an opportunity to do a slow-paced warm up. I felt strong throughout the race itself, and even had enough steam to pick it up and sprint into the finish. My official time was 37:47 at a 9:47 average pace. I’m noticing how much different I feel from just two months ago and I’m happy about my fitness progress.

Running buddies. I’m forever grateful.

Speaking of running, this is what my training plan will look like for the week ahead:

New York City Marathon Training – Week Two

Monday: 40-minute easy pace run
Tuesday: rest day
Wednesday: yoga
Thursday: speed training class
Friday: yoga
Saturday: 9 mile run – I’m actually running a 6 mile race this day.
Sunday: yoga

On Saturday evening, a group of friends and I headed to Pier 66 to have dinner and drinks aboard the Frying Pan. The night was filled with many laughs, smiles and bliss that the summer is here to stay, for now.

I’m going on a boat.

On a random note, has anyone heard the song Strange Attractor by Animal Kingdom? I cannot stop listening to it on repeat, naturally.

I hope everyone is enjoying the weekend. And now I leave you with my chosen quote of the day:

                                                            Source: all-things-bright-and-beyootiful.tumblr.com via Becky on Pinterest

Summer in Full Swing

Posted on by

0

I hope everyone is enjoying their summer so far. It is nearly July. It’s all happening full steam ahead.

I’m now officially on a mini staycation through July 4th. Fourth of July happens to be one of my favorites. I love anything incorporating fireworks. They’re so celebratory and I am always game for finding a reason to celebrate, especially if we’re cheering on the summer months and all they have to offer.

Last night I kicked off my extended weekend with a yoga class at YoYoga! (my summertime hangout), followed by a refreshing glass of white sangria in the neighborhood.

I’ve also planned a few more activities while I’m off from work, including:

  • Brunch with my cousin
  • Day trip to Rockaway Beach
  • Tickets to see a showing of The Amazing Spider-Man - I never miss an Emma Stone movie.
  • July 4th dinner picnic and fireworks
  • More yoga and running

I’ve mentioned this before and I’ll say it again. I always feel most beautiful while sweating it out on the yoga mat or running outdoors. Having a fitness routine you look forward to, which then in return becomes a part of your life, is so important. It instantly brightens you entirely as a person. This is my saving grace. If I’m feeling down on myself wishing I was in better shape or beating myself up for not being thinner, I immediately make sure I’m scheduled to work out on that particular day. I never regret a workout. It brings me back to my true self without all of the mindless negative chatter, and allows me to pull up my confidence.

Quote of the day:

                                                                                Source: en-cour-age.tumblr.com via Becky on Pinterest

Fitness Goals

Posted on by

0

Breakfast. My favorite meal of the day.

I took my bike out of retirement over the weekend. I’m glad I did and am pleased that me and my bike have reconnected. I wasn’t sure when this would occur. It had taken about a year.

Heading out to Brooklyn.

On Sunday, I visited with a friend who lives in the Williamsburg/Greenpoint part of Brooklyn. It’s not too far on the bike from my apartment, about twenty-five minutes give or take. It really depends on how slowly I slam on the brakes riding down the Queensboro Bridge. Downhill cycling and I don’t mix.

Passing through on my bike route. 

Yoga also played a big part in my weekend. I took a basics class on Friday evening to better my poses and an open level class on Sunday morning, which happens to be one of my favorites.

Running is also making more of a comeback in my life. My NYC Marathon training program will begin in just a few weeks. The countdown is on. To prep myself, I’ve been taking a Thursday evening speed training class in Central Park, as well as a recurring Saturday morning run with friends.

I believe my yoga practice will be a nice complement to all of the running once the training begins.

I’ve been thinking about fitness goals. My first goal is to break four hours running the NYC Marathon. I am envisioning a 3:59. I’ve had this goal once before and came pretty close with a 4:01 at the New Jersey Marathon. I believe I’m in the right mindset to reach my goal now. During prior NYC Marathon training sessions, I would have maintained a packed race schedule including road races, triathlons, and relays. It was fun and I wouldn’t change it for the world, but I also became extremely overwhelmed in the end.

This time I’m simplifying the plan. I’m going to follow the 16 week (plus race week) training schedule in the book Four Months to a Four-hour Marathon. In addition, I’ll continue to practice yoga a few times per week. I haven’t signed up for a million races. So far, I’m running two smaller races in July, a team relay in August, and a half-marathon in October.

My second fitness goal is to see myself improve on the yoga mat. I want to continue to become mentally and physically stronger. I like the transformation I already see. Overall, I would like to feel more comfortable in my own skin. When I’m sweaty and spent while sprinting during class or in Warrior II pose on the mat, this is when I feel most beautiful. I know I’m bettering myself as a person.

Goal for the day: Think of a few fitness goals you would like to obtain over the next six months. Jot them down and make a plan. 

(source)