Fitness
Trinero Triathlon Deal Dispatch Website
Jul 11th
Trinero is the new groupon type website that gives you great deals on all your gear and nutrition. If you are into running, biking, swimming, or just a healthy lifestyle check out Trinero for great deals in your area.
YTri this Crazy Race? The Ragner Relay Race Series
May 18th
I belong to my local YMCA, and we have a triathlon club, which is great for me because it gives me motivation to workout and a cheering section at races! The best part is we all have the same endurance motivations, silly yes, but sometimes the crazier the race sounds, the more people want to participate. Runners and tri-athletes are definitely a unique breed. At any rate, one of my friends from the club Becki came up with the idea to participate in the Ragner Relay which is a running race series that has teams of up to twelve members that compete in a relay that runs for about 200 beautiful miles from Madison to Chicago. And so a group of us thought, “200 miles with eleven other runners that run through the night(dawn to dusk to dawn)–crazy maybe but we can do that!” We certainly are going to have to roll with the punches, as there are 6 of us per van, and by the end of our 36 hour sleep deprived running craziness, we are all going to be best of friends! We are not elite athletes, we are doing this for FUN…yes I said FUN, certainly not in it to win it!
We assembled our team of 12, we came up with a name, “YTri this CRAZY Race?” we picked the legs we will be running. And we decided to raise money for UPS for Downs (United Parent Support for Downs Syndrome), specifically to raise money to promote literacy for those with Down Syndrome, the Katie MacDonald Literacy Project. We wanted to turn our crazy adventure into helping out a great cause. If you would like to donate to UPS for Downs, please click here.
Check out the Ragner Race Series to see if it is in an area near you. It is always fun to do something somewhat unconventional, and take your running/triathlon passion to a FUN and maybe CRAZY new level!
It’s Your Time: National Women’s Health Week
May 11th
National Women’s Health Week is a weeklong health observance coordinated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health from May 8th through the 15th. It brings together communities, businesses, government, health organizations, and other groups in an effort to promote women’s health. The theme for 2011 is “It’s Your Time.” National Women’s Health Week empowers women to make their health a top priority. It also encourages them to take steps to improve their physical and mental health and lower their risks of certain diseases.
Those steps include:
- Getting at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate physical activity, 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous physical activity, or a combination of both, each week.
- Eating a nutritious diet.
- Visiting a health care professional to receive regular checkups and preventive screenings
- Avoiding risky behaviors, such as smoking and not wearing a seatbelt.
- Paying attention to mental health, including getting enough sleep and managing stress.
So to all of US Women: WE OWE IT TO OURSELVES AND OUR FAMILY TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF!–It’s Your Time! Get Out and Do Something For Yourself Today.
Review: Jillian Michael’s 30 Day Shred Workout DVD
Feb 10th
I recently came across Jillian Michael’s 30 Day Shred Workout DVD, so I decided to check it out. After having Little Miss two months ago, I am now really starting to want to get back on the fitness bandwagon. I have a gym membership, and I have high hopes of getting back into triathlon shape. But I am finding with two little ones at home, getting out to the gym is proving more challenging. So I am up for a “GREAT 25 Minute Workout.” 25 minutes is perfect since I can squeeze it into the littles nap time.
The 30 Day Shred has three levels of workout on the DVD, and Jillian focuses the training on the 3-2-1 method: 3 mins strength, 2 mins cardio, 1 min abdomen. There are 3 levels for your varying fitness cardio level.
After trying all three levels, I have to say I love this workout DVD. After every session, I feel sore-like the good kind of muscle sore! I have been alternating the levels so that I don’t get bored with just the same workout everyday. What is nice, is that on each level she modifies the activity, so there is an easier version and a harder version. I haven’t lost much weight yet, but the baby belly is definitely getting smaller, so as long as I am losing inches I am happy!
BUY IT: The 30 Day Shred by Jillian Michaels is available on Amazon for 10.49.
Here’s to a Healthy Fitness Filled 2011
Jan 10th
Okay, so I am going to jump on the New Year’s Resolution Bandwagon…or really just a fitness/weight loss resolution. After having Little Miss 6 weeks ago, I could certainly use some help losing the baby weight. It took me 9 months with my first to get the weight off, and I am determined to get in shape faster this time.
I love competing in triathlons, so I am hoping this summer to get back at it. I would love to compete in an olympic distance TRI by August. The only question is….How am I going to do that with two littles???
So here is the game plan, in order to get healthy and lose the weight, and get back into TRI shape!
1. Eat healthier! I happen to love the sweets, the pop, and the carbohydrates. I really am going to have to make a conscious effort to cut that out of my diet, and to eat more fruits and veggies. I also need to drink more WATER.
2. Get to the gym, or some form of exercise 5 x week for at least 30 minutes. I have a great TRI club that I belong too, so I have the support. I have the gym membership. I have already enlisted the hubby to work around our schedules so I can get to my SPIN class. Now I really don’t have an excuse to get my “butt” to the gym.
I also came across this fitness DVD, as I am a huge fan of Jillian Michael’s and the Biggest Loser. And I want to get it and check it out! A 25 minute workout–that sounds great!
Jillian Michael’s 30 DAY SHRED–It gets great reviews, and is on sale for 7.99. Plus, reviews say it definitely a challenge. I will share my review once I check it out!
So I am eager to hear if any of my fellow bloggers have fitness resolutions, or creative ways for getting in that workout? I also would love any input on yummy healthy recipes!
Free iPhone Application: RunKeeper Pro
Dec 31st
Welcome in 2011 with your New Year’s Fitness resolutions! RunKeeper Pro is currently FREE through the end of January (normally $9.99), to help you start on the right track of being healthy!
RunKeeper Pro uses the GPS built into the iPhone to track your speed and distance, and allows you to see the data — calories burned, path traveled, and pace.
During your workout, whether it be running, jogging, walking, or biking, you can choose to have audio cues play back through your headphones, letting you know your distance and pace that you have been traveling. The application also has a coach tool to help you plan your workout and work towards your goals.
RunKeeper Pro also has an online feature that allows you to automatically upload your recorded data from your phone. Where you can review and share the data.
So jump on that New Year’s Fitness Resolution, and get into shape in 2011, download RunKeeper Pro today from the App Store for FREE!
Exercising in Pregnancy
Aug 6th
I was gearing up for the summer triathlon season this past spring, when I found out we were expecting baby # 2! I was set on exercising throughout the pregnancy, to help and maintain my fitness level. The first trimester proved a bit challenging, between the fatigue and morning sickness it was difficult to get myself to the gym, but everyday I always felt better after going.
It has been shown that exercise in pregnancy is important for both you and your baby. It is as important as following a nutritious diet. Exercise has been shown to boost our energy, increasing our muscle tone, and helping us to maintain a healthy weight. During pregnancy, exercise has the added benefit of relieving stress and helping you to manage those pregnancy symptoms. Exercise can help you manage nausea, weight gain and stiff muscles. It also will increase your stamina and prepare you for labor and delivery. It is recommended to exercise 30 minutes three times a week.
Before You Exercise
Please consult with a health care provider. You should be given the okay to exercise, as you don’t want to put yourself or the baby at risk. Talk with your doctor about what is safe for you, and what they recommend for your heart rate and exercise routines.
Consider Your Fitness Level: Take into consideration your fitness level prior to the pregnancy. If you haven’t been off the couch and in a routine, don’t overdue it. Begin slowly and work your way into a routine. Add 5 minutes of time each time you are out.
If you are used to exercising, it is still important to take things relatively slow. Your body may not be use to the extra weight or your increase in blood volume to support you and the baby. I found that I had to back down on my running pace, or biking intervals to keep my heart rate in the appropriate range.
What exercise to do?
Enjoy your exercise. Continue with what you were previously doing, just modify. Or if you are new to exercise, find something you enjoy. Focus on more low impact aerobic activities, like low impact aerobics, stationary bicycling, walking, or swimming. Avoid contact sports.
Yoga and Pilates
Yoga and Pilates are great for your body and your mind. It helps you improve your posture, balance, and flexibility. Look for a prenatal Yoga or Pilates classes in your area, where the classes are tailored to us pregnant moms.
Kegel Exercises
Kegels are super important for pregnant women. Kegel exercises help to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, which tend to loosen after labor. This can lead to incontinence, and a weak pelvic floor. All you need to do is squeeze your pelvic muscles for a few minutes everyday.
These are just some tips to get you started with exercising in pregnancy. Again please check with your physician prior to beginning an exercise regimen. And then get out and ENJOY! You will feel great and your baby will thank you!
Biggest Loser Season Finale
May 26th
I have to say that I really got into Biggest Loser this season. I felt a connection to the people on the show, and they all did amazing. It was certainly a motivational season.
This season had the largest contestants. Michael from Chicago, started the season at 526 pounds, and transformed his life on this show. He was the 250,000 dollar winner losing over half of his body weight. He ended the show at 264 pounds. Amazing!
Ashley “the pink ninja” also did great. Starting the show at 374 pounds, she was able to lose 183 pounds.
Darius also did amazing. He finished the marathon in just over 4 hours! And he also lost approximately half of his body weight over the course of the show.
I think that the concept of Biggest Loser is excellent, these contestants are able to lose extreme amounts of weight with the intense exercise regimen and appropriate diet. What really surprised me was how well the contestants who competed for the 100,000 dollars from home did. They all lost weight and looked GREAT! It just goes to show that if you have the regimen and the “WILL” to lose the weight you can do it.
The show is definitely inspirational, and it makes me want to get off of the couch and get in a workout!
I am now going to have to watch, Jillian’s “Losing it with Jillian,” on June 1st at 10/9 central.
Making Exercising With Your Stroller More Fun
May 24th
Today Mr. Toddler and I went for a jog with my BOB jogging stroller, which was only the second trip out this season. We live in the Chicago area, and the weather just hasn’t really cooperated. And today didn’t seem much different as it was 84 degrees at 9 am. Which is hot around here, and I am not quite acclimated to the heat.
But I do love my runs, and I am so glad that it is getting nice out so I can enjoy the time exercising, and spend time with my son. As I was running today my thoughts drifted as to what makes it easier for me to get out and get my run in for the day!
And #1 would be: To keep Mr. Toddler occupied. I have a BOB ironman stroller, and I had bought the snack tray/infant car seat adapter for it. Which is a life saver. The car seat adaptor worked great to get out when he was little and still in his car seat for travel. And it converts to a snack tray as they get bigger. Today he had crackers, and a sippy cup along for the ride.
My # 2 at keeping the child occupied, is make sure he has some of his favorite toys along. Today, he managed to bring along, a Nemo stuffed animal, two hotwheels, and a Thomas the train toy. So the whole run he was content, other than the occasional toss of the toy from the stroller, which of course can become a game.
#3 We also play games along the way. He loves animals, and we have been working on naming things in the environment. So as I run, I ask him where is the grass, trees, flowers, birds, etc…He really seems to get a kick out of it when he can name something before I point it out to him. I am now excited to get out with him more in the jogger, because he is learning so quickly, and it is kind of fun to bond with him along the run.
Safety tips to remember:
1. I always run on the right side of the road, so I am facing oncoming traffic. They can see me, and I can see them coming to get out of the way.
2. Run in places that aren’t as heavy on car traffic. I run in my subdivision, or on local running paths.
3. Never take your hands off the handlebar. This one is tricky. You will start to run and realize your stride is different. I always hold on with one hand and alternate my hands. I also always have the safety strap around my wrist while running.
4. Don’t forget to consider your baby’s exposure to the elements. Use sunscreen and hats to block the sun. I always have the visor on the stroller pulled over him. Consider dressing the child in an extra layer in cooler weather. They are sitting while you are runnning. I also sometimes bring a blanket along. If it is hot out consider that too, for both you and the baby, you might want to limit the time you are in the heat.
5. Bring along a drink for yourself, just throw it the extra compartments on the stroller. I also always bring my cell phone for safety.
Well, I think that about sums it UP! I love my BOB Ironman Stroller. If you are considering buying a jogging stroller check one out today! I recommend doing a bit of research there is several models, and they all have different functions, and you will definitely find one that is right for you.
Amazon.com sells the stroller BOB Ironman for 349.00 with Free Shipping you can check it out HERE.
Review: Calorie Count Application For the iPhone
Apr 29th
The new Calorie Count app is a free, downloadable diet tool that allows users to track and manage weight, search and log nutritional data, popular exercises and healthy recipes all while on-the-go …a time when critical dieting decisions are often made. Essentially, the Calorie Count App serves as an all-in-one diet coach, nutritionist and workout trainer! The app has been developed in response to overwhelming requests from CalorieCount.com‘s site members (yes, it also serves as a social networking and support site consisting of two million).
The Calorie Count App can be used to quickly/easily search the foods you encounter while on-the-go and help you make better diet decisions (i.e. a mocha latte vs. an iced coffee). Did you know President Obama’s recently passed healthcare reform will require all restaurants with 20 or more chains to post calorie counts and nutritional information on their menus? In the meantime, we have the Calorie Count App!
The Calorie Count App is available at no cost for both existing and new users through the Apple App Store. An outline of the app’s key features are listed for you:
- An easy-to-use dashboard with graphics that allows users to navigate through the application while being able to quickly visualize their dieting progress.
- One of the most comprehensive nutritional analyses of food consumption – against daily targets – among calorie counting iPhone Apps.
- The ability to quickly search and easily log more than 100,000 food items.
- Tools to view current and past food, activity and weight logs including a graph of your weight history.
- More than 150 low-calorie recipes from About.com (www.about.com), selected by Calorie Count’s registered dietitian, Mary Hartley. This interface allows users to select recipes based on course, food group and dietary considerations.
- Access to Calorie Count’s daily blog (www.caloriecount.com/blog) to help users stay motivated and informed.
- The ability to record daily weight, and view charts and graphs to measure your body’s progress against weight-loss goals.
- Automatic updates of information logged on Calorie Count member accounts through a computer or the iPhone App.
- An offline mode that allows members to view recent logs, view and re-log favorites, and input their weight without an Internet connection.
My Review:
I just signed up on the caloriecount.com website and downloaded the iPhone application, and it provides recipes, and healthy eating tips. It even calculated how many calories I should be intaking daily. The website is great. I am pretty good about working out on a daily basis, but I am not so good about what I eat, so with the new application you can input your calories on the go–it will definitely hold me more accountable for what I eat. I am excited to start using this tool to help me stay in shape!
