Tag Archives: Health & Fitness

June 5, 2012 · 4:52 PM

A Pleasant Surprise

Today I woke up to sunshine and cool temps so I grabbed my sneakers and headed for the fitness trail. It’s been a while since I’ve been there so I set my Run Keeper app for a walk instead of a run and hit the pavement.

I planned on going my normal route which is normally just shy of 5 miles round trip. As I reached the rec center, which is where I do the bulk of my run/walks, I was feeling good and decided to start jogging. It felt great to do it and I fell into pace rather easily. Once I hit the back entrance to the actual fitness trail I was surprised to see new posts with directional arrows had been installed. The trail really needed those as certain spots can get a little tricky.

As I went further into the wooded section of the trail, I had to drop down to a walk again. I was getting a little tired and there were a lot of workers cutting the overgrown brush back from the path. Once I reached my halfway mark (which is the real trail start point) I noticed something interesting… a new sign that said START as well as 5K on it. The trail was a never a 5K before and then I recalled seeing a new “path” on my way in. Of course I had to go check things out and I’m glad I did! The new trail is really nice and the view today was stunning.

As I headed back from the “Start” of the trail I noticed mile marker signs along the way, too. It was really nice to see that they were cleaning things up on the trail and that they made the improvement by extending it.

When I finally finished my walk, I ended up doing a little over 6.5 miles and it felt great. I can’t wait to head back up there and conquer the new section of the trail again.

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June 4, 2012 · 12:29 PM

Today’s Workout: Stretch, Cardio & Booty!

Today I woke up and my lower body was still very sore from the lower body workout I posted the other day. I decided a dose of X-Stretch from P90X would do my body good, so that is how I started today’s workout. I had to skip the sun salutations, camel and back hero since I still can’t stretch my core too much, but I still felt great after completing the workout.

My plan was to hit the pavement this morning since I needed to go to the post office and it conveniently falls along my walking/running path. Unfortunately, mother nature had different plans and it started to thunderstorm as I was getting ready to go. Thankfully I have a stationary bike so I hopped on there instead and got a solid 30-min cardio workout in before giving this workout I found on Pinterest a try:

I did three rounds of this, Insanity style, and felt a solid burn kick in halfway through the second round.

As you can tell, I’ve been putting focus on lower body workouts, and that’s because I’ve decided to join my husband and some of his buddies in August, as they attempt the Rock Solid Mud Run. I’m a little nervous about this since I recently had the surgery, but my plan is to pace myself, do what I can and just have fun.

If you try any of the workouts I’m posting, please let me know what you think or if you add anything! Also, if you have any that you love, please pass them my way. I’d love to try it out and feature it here along with your fitness story.

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June 2, 2012 · 9:49 AM

This Mornings Workout: Legs

Since my body has been responding so well post surgery to lifting, I figured it was time to add a short, but effective leg routine into the mix. If your legs aren’t jello after completing this, you’re not giving it your all.

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May 30, 2012 · 8:19 PM

Fitness Mindset

Three years ago, I had a similar conversation with myself, and I haven’t looked back. Anyone can do what I have done. You just have to change the way you think!

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May 23, 2012 · 8:00 AM

Post-Op Update

It’s been a little over 6 weeks since I had my surgery and I can’t believe how well I am healing!

A few weeks ago I was depressed, swollen and second guessing my decision to have the tummy tuck and abdominal repair. Today? I am on cloud nine and loving my results!

I have almost no restrictions on activities now. The only thing I am not allowed to do are any abdominal workouts until I hit the 5 month mark. I am currently on week three of my routine, and I opted to do ChaLEAN Extreme’s Push month, three times a week, to build up my arm strength again. I toyed with starting from month 1 of her program, but Push has always been my favorite so I figured why not?! I am definitely lifting lighter than I was pre-surgery, but I don’t mind at all and I’m sure I will  be back where I was in no time. The only parts I’ve had to skip are the push-ups since I feel too much of a pull in my core, and some of the single leg squats for the same stability reasons.

The other great thing is I no longer have to wear the compression garment and I have had zero swelling in the past two weeks. This really surprised because I read a lot of blogs and boards about tummy tucks and everyone struggled with swelling and still felt like they needed their compression garment at this point. I am by no means complaining, and hopefully I didn’t just jinx myself …that would however be my luck.

Over the past two weeks I have been filled with a new found sense of joy when it comes to my body. I no longer second guess what I am going to wear. I don’t stare at myself, nit picking the imperfections that only I would notice. It’s a feeling that is so foreign to me but feels so wonderful and rewarding. I love seeing what I truly accomplished over the past 3 years with my body. I worked damn hard to achieve this and I am FINALLY getting to see the true results.

Today, I tried on a bikini and after the initial shock and awe of seeing my very pale stomach exposed, I loved my reflection. It felt amazing to stand there in a two piece bathing suit and not want to cry my eyes out. As a matter of fact, I felt so comfortable and happy, I took this photo to share with everyone here.

Please pardon the pastiness of my complexion. If it ever stops raining here, I may be able to lay out in my yard and get a slight tan.

So…there you have it. My post-op update, the first time I have ever shared a photo of myself, in a bathing suit, for all of the internet to see, and my new found confidence, all rolled up into one neat little blog post.

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May 22, 2012 · 12:51 PM

Another Year Down

I can’t believe it’s been 3 years since I made the decision to become healthy. There are days it seems like just yesterday that I started on the path to this lifestyle, and then there are days where I can’t imagine living the way I did. The fast food runs, over sized portions and constant bonding with my couch. I cringe when I think about all of that, but without it, I wouldn’t be the person I am today.

Looking back, I’ve come a long way. I haven’t eaten McDonald’s in well over 2 years, my body craves exercise and healthy foods and then there’s the 100+ pounds I’ve lost as a result of those things. Oh and let’s not forget my recent surgery. THAT is something I never dreamed I would be doing when I started all of this. I am a completely different person than I was three years ago and I am so grateful for that. I know that I have added years to my life with the choices I have made. It’s also nice to know that I no longer have to wish I can shop in certain stores and trying on new clothes is something I enjoy doing now.

One of the things I love the most about my journey, is knowing that I have inspired so many people along the way. I am one of those people who tend to be very hard on themselves. I don’t easily give myself credit for what I accomplish, so when I receive e-mails, messages and comments from people whom I have inspired, it’s very touching. It also in turn inspires me to keep going and to be the best ME I can possibly be.

If you asked me three years ago if I would ever be able to do the physical things I can now, I would have said you were crazy. I am forever amazed at what my body has been able to do, how strong it can be and how much I have grown mentally. There is nothing I can’t do …as long as I get out of my own way. Ha! The mental battle of this journey has been the most difficult but most amazing aspect. It’s all about mind over matter, seeing is believing and having confidence in yourself.

Thank you to everyone who reads my blog, comments on my posts and keeps me motivated!

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May 22, 2012 · 6:00 AM

Baked Chicken and Spinach Flautas

I love Mexican food. I mean seriously LOVE Mexican food. My love for it is not as passionate as my love for pizza but it comes in a close second. As a result, I wanted to try something new for Cinco de Mayo this year, but I also wanted to keep it on the healthy side. After searching tons of recipes, I decided on this one and served it with Mexican rice and black beans.

Baked Chicken and Spinach Flautas

Makes about 10 flautas
Prep Time: 15 minutes – Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 16 ounces beer
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 jalapeno, minced
  • 3 cups baby spinach, chopped
  • 5 burrito-size flour tortillas (9 inches)
  • 6 ounces shredded cheese (I used a Mexican blend)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil, or cooking spray
  • Salsa and sour cream to serve on the side
Directions
  1. Preheat the oven to 450*F.
  2. Put the chicken thighs in a deep saute pan; cover with the beer and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the liquid and shred it. Mix together the chicken and seasonings.
  3. Pour out all but 1/4 cup of the cooking liquid. Add the jalapeno and spinach and cook over low heat until for 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted.
  4. Cut the tortillas in half. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the chicken (I used a small ice cream scoop) along the long edge of a tortilla. Repeat with the spinach and cheese. Roll the tortilla up, starting with the straight edge. Place them seam-side down on an oiled baking sheet. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
  5. Brush the flautas with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. Bake for 10 minutes, then turn them over and bake for until 10 minutes, or until crispy. Serve with salsa and sour cream (if desired)

Each flauta has approx. 180 calories, 9 grams fat, 6 grams carbs, 1 gram fiber, 18 grams protein – The tortillas and cheese you use change these numbers greatly so be careful.

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May 5, 2012 · 9:32 AM

Skinless Chicken Thighs with Shallots

I’ve been in a bit of a food rut lately, so I did what any social media/internet junkie would do…I turned to Pinterest for inspiration.

While searching through the Food & Drink category, I stumbled upon this recipe and decided I had to try it. I had almost all of the ingredients on hand, so why not?

Skinless Chicken Thighs with Shallots

Ingredients:

  • 8 lean chicken thighs, skin removed
    (I used boneless, skinless)
  • salt and fresh pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 cup fat free, low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp butter
  • 1 large shallot, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (I only had red on hand so that’s what I used)
  • 2 tbsp light sour cream
  • 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley

Directions:

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.

In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, honey, 3/4 cup of the chicken broth and the tomato paste. Bring to a boil for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture reduces down to about 3/4 cup. Remove from heat.

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat, then add the chicken. Cook on both sides, until brown, about 6-8 minutes, then remove the chicken and set aside.

Add the shallots and garlic to the skillet and cook them on low until they are soft, about 5 minutes. Return the chicken to the pan, pour the sauce over the chicken, add the wine, remaining broth and salt & pepper to taste. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes until tender.

Remove the chicken, add the sour cream and stir into the sauce (if the sauce seems thick add more broth). Simmer for a few minutes, then return chicken to skillet.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley.

As you can see I served this over rice and I’m sure it would be excellent with quinoa, as well. I also steamed up some vegetables to go with it and balance things out. The recipe was very flavorful and we all enjoyed it. I plan on making it again, only next time, I’d like to add some more shallots as well as some mushrooms.

Have you tried any healthy, delicious recipes lately? If so, I’d love to hear about them!

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May 2, 2012 · 11:22 AM

Back in the Saddle, Again!

I just completed my first workout in weeks, and I gotta tell you…it felt great!

Yesterday, I was completely stoked when my surgeon said I could start working out again and that upper-body weight lifting was fine. I knew right away that I wanted to jump back into ChaLEAN Extreme’s PUSH month, as it’s my absolute favorite for building and gaining quick muscle definition.

Upon waking up this morning and felt a little nervous about attempting my first workout. I haven’t really lifted or done anything in months and over the past two weeks, I haven’t been allowed to even lift laundry baskets.

I headed down stairs to the “Get Fit Or Get Out” gym (AKA: my living room), found the DVD and carefully began selecting and moving my weights of choice to the center of the room. I knew I couldn’t lift as heavy as was before, but I also didn’t want to baby myself and not provide some kind of challenge. I settled on a selection of weights ranging from 8 – 12 lbs and began to warm up.

I had no discomfort during any of the exercises and I quickly figured out which weights worked best for which moves. The most difficult part for me was making sure I didn’t strain my core by holding it in too tight. It’s a little difficult to tell, since I don’t have much sensation but if I felt some pulling, I knew I had to easy up and adjust my stance. I had a little difficulty with the over head tricep extensions, since my muscles and skin are very tight. It makes standing straight with you arms over your head VERY difficult, but I did what I could and tapped out once I realized it wasn’t comfortable or worth it to push. Instead, I simply did some more single arm tricep extensions. The important part is working the muscle until it’s fatigued and I certainly did that.

Overall, I had a great first workout and I look forward to my next one. I was happy I didn’t experience major discomfort or swelling from it, because I was afraid of both. It feels good to have my motivation back and I’m excited to fall back into a routine.

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May 1, 2012 · 5:23 PM

Three Weeks Post-Op

Today I had my 3 week post-op visit and things are going well!

This past week I have really started to become comfortable in my skin again. As the swelling goes down and I’m able to be more physical, I am feeling more like myself again. Today I even tried on a few of my bathing suits just to make sure the scar line is covered and you know what? I was actually happy to look at myself in the mirror in a bathing suit! Shocking right?! It is the first time in I don’t know….EVER…. that I can honestly say that. It was a great feeling to not feel like I had to cover something or fidget with things.

Another plus this week was that the skin glue and mesh tape they used to close my incision fell off, which meant I no longer had to use these giant gauze pads to cover the area. I also fit into a smaller size pair of jeans than I did last week. I am still not quite into my normal jeans, but I think within another week or two I’ll be there. As you can see, I am still quite swollen but my belly button is healing nicely. I would also like to point out that this is the first time I have ever shared a photo of my stomach. It’s not the most impressive photo (especially since I haven’t shared a before) but I’m very happy with things so far and know that things will only improve as time goes on.

At the appointment today, my incision was looked at and he said it is healing very nicely. I can downgrade the type of compression garment I wear to a “Spanx” like style. I think I will go shop for a new one tonight since I officially loathe the medical grade one I have been forced to wear for the past 3 weeks. He also said I can remove the garment at night now, if I am comfortable doing that…..uh….fuck yeah! There is nothing comfortable about a zipper jabbing you in your side as you try to have sweet dreams.

I have also been cleared to go back to work and exercise again, which I am excited for. I have the green light for all cardio and anything upper body. The only thing I can’t do at this point are ab workouts. He said I have to wait until at least 6 months out  for those and to be honest, I’m totally ok with that. Tomorrow morning I think I will try to do some lifting. Obviously, I’ll be modifying the amount of weight I lift, so I can get a feel for what’s comfortable and what’s pushing it. It’s been weeks since I have done any exercise so I’m sure I’ll be lifting much lighter, regardless.

Other than that, I don’t have much else to report. I need to order the scar gel he recommends to help the scar line fade and as I type this blog, I am enjoying the freedom of NOT wearing that torturous compression garment.

Hopefully my blog will begin to shift back to my workouts now that I am able to get busy again. During this off time, I seem to have found a spark within myself again and I’m hoping it ignites into the inferno it once was.

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