Sarah Fitness

High Five I Finally Remembered I Have A Blog Friday!

2012-03-02T09:41:00.000-06:00

Happy happy Friday! Here's a high five for you!

38 looks good on me, I must admit.

I had quite a week. Monday was my birthday, and I stayed home, not to celebrate my birthday, but to stay with my kids while my husband had his teeth cleaned (which took a very long time). I did get a short birthday nap. And some cake. And ice cream.

Tuesday was the day my kids went to daycare, and also the anniversary of the day my mom died. I decided to take another day and just chill. It was quite nice. I ran 4 miles. That was a big deal.

Wednesday I went to work. Like I'm supposed to :-)

Thursday my daughter was sick. Well, she was actually sick all through the night Wednesday night. I had the help of some friends who are nurses who talked me through the middle of the night worries about her high fever. Nevertheless, I decided to stay home with her. She seemed to feel better too. (Whew).

So, here we are at Friday and I'm actually at work for the second time this week.Although, I'm hearing schools are closing early for impending bad weather, so I may not be here for long :-)

For today, I really want to hear about YOU. I want you to brag about something great you did this week.

My brags:
- I made it through the week :-)
- I ran twice already (and at 7 miles, it's the most miles in a week I've done in a LONG time).
- I did my two Pump workouts that were scheduled

I also wanted to include this, in honor of Dr. Seuss' birthday:

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Brag! Tell me what's up! And have a wonderful Friday!

The Plan For This Week...

2012-02-27T16:23:00.000-06:00

Another week with a plan. It's comforting to me, even if it doesn't always go exactly as I planned..

But first of all...

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Today is my birthday. It's been really low key, mainly because my husband hasn't been paid from his teaching job since before Christmas (adjuncts have glamorous lives. Thank goodness for Beachbody, by the way...)

I had hoped to take a day off on one of the days the kids go to daycare- Tuesday or Thursday- and have a very relaxing day all to myself. However, my husband had a dentist appointment, so I took the day off to have a relaxing day with my kids (most of you are probably laughing hysterically at my use of the words "relaxing" and "my kids" in the same sentence.) But it's been nice. I did get a nap.

Anyway, here's the plan. Actually, the plan actually changed between the time it was planned and the time I wrote this... so it's a fluid plan :-)

Monday:
AM: Pump
PM: Cardio (was supposed to be a run, but, um, childcare ~~fell through~~ needed a nap. I couldn't complain since I got a nice 2 hour birthday nap).

Tuesday:
AM: Cardio
PM: Run 2 miles

Wednesday:
AM: Cardio

Thursday:
AM: Pump
PM: Run 2 miles

Friday:
AM: Cardio

Saturday:
Run 2 miles
Pump

For cardio, I'm going to keep it fun. I've been practicing Turbo for a few weeks, and it's fun and everything, but not as fun as teaching a class would be (which hopefully will start soon). So I may do Turbofire- it's got the energy of a class. I'm also having a craving to do some step... Basically, I have a ton of workouts that I call "prozac on a DVD" that are just fun and good for endorphines, so I'll be choosing from those.

Well, we'll see how that goes. Do you have some favorite workouts you turn to when you want to lift your mood and just have fun?

Have a great week!

High Five The Last Friday I'll Ever Be 37 Years Old Friday

2012-02-24T09:40:00.000-06:00

Last week one of the comments to my High Five Friday post implied that I looked old. Here is my response:

Take THAT.

I'm turning 38 on Monday. I'm not sure if I've mentioned that. Enough. And, at first, being told I looked old kind of hurt... probably because it's what I've been thinking lately. But, I shook it off. (Oh, and the comment is published, if you want to take a look.)

I am proud of what I've accomplished in 38 years. I'm proud of how strong I am. I'm inspired by ladies I know in their FORTIES who look AMAZING and are accomplishing HUGE things. So there.

Today, I'm doing some hopping. I hope you'll hop with me.

Now, on to the weekend.
I know y'all get tired of me saying the same thing over and over, but I'm going to be doing some organizing and cleaning this weekend. It's just that with the 2 jobs and the 2 kids during the week, sometimes it just doesn't get done.
Pinterest and I are continuing our affair. But, what's exciting for me is that I'm actually implementing some of the ideas I see there (like last week's closet/office idea).
This weekend, I tackle the kitchen. Do you all have Tupperware cabinets that are out of control? Like, you open it and everything falls out? Every time? Well, that's at the top of my list.
This is exciting to me:

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Or this:

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And I really wouldn't mind having a fridge that looked like this:

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So, there are some goals for the weekend. I promise this blog is not going to be all about organizing your house. I could never compete with those pretty blogs. I am still here to talk primarily about Fitness, and how I make it work in my life.

What are your plans for the weekend? Fitness plans? Other plans? Let me hear them!

(And, one more time, because it's for my birthday, come "like" Sarah Fitness if you can. Helps us reach 1000 people!)

Happy Weekend!

It's Okay Thursday...

2012-02-23T08:56:00.000-06:00

It's Okay to turn 38. No really, it's so okay. I'm okay.
It's Okay to already know it's going to be a 4 cups of coffee kind of day.
It's Okay to be happy the kids slept long enough for me to do my workout without interruptions.
It's Okay to continue and perpetuate this meme. Forever.

It's Okay to be NEVER want to post a picture of myself again, since someone commented last week that maybe if I slept more I would look younger and less tired.
It's Okay to want to do this38 Random Acts of Kindness on my birthday, but maybe not make it to 38. I think any number is better than 0.
It's Okay to consider people you've never actually met in person but talk to every day some of your best friends ever. (I love the internet).
Did I mention coffee? It deserves another mention.
It's Okay that diet is the hardest thing for me. I can workout all day long. I can also eat all day long.

It's Okay to wear headphones at work even without listening to anything just to discourage people from talking to me. Sometimes it works.
It's Okay to kind of beg for "like"s at Sarah Fitness since we're only 48 away from my goal... Shameless, I know. But it's what I want for my birthday...

I think that's enough Okay things. Does anyone have any suggestions for the "Random Acts of Kindness" I can perform on my birthday Monday?

Happy Thursday!

The Power of Awesomeday!

2012-02-22T09:07:00.000-06:00

Every Wednesday, I participate in something called "Awesomeday". It came about when I heard someone say, "Today is so awesome I should just call it 'Awesomeday'!" I thought about it, and I started making every Facebook status post a "Thing that is awesome". On that day, I made a rule for myself: I was not allowed to whine. I was not allowed to be negative. Everything had to be awesome.

The next week came around, and I did it again. I had a few friends join me. Some people surely wondered what we were doing, but we didn't care. Our attitudes were starting to change.

Soon I started a Facebook page for Awesomeday, and found that people I didn't even know were starting to post "Things that are awesome" on Wednesdays.

I honestly don't know the official dates that it started, but I know there are 183 fans (at the moment) of the page, and hopefully they are brightening up their little corner of the world

Now, let me tell you, there are Wednesdays when I don't feel awesome. Today was one. I had a rough morning. You know those mornings where *nothing* goes right. I found myself dreading the day ahead and thinking for a moment, "Well, that's it. Today's not going to go well." But then I remembered that it's Awesomeday.

Now, I can't post anything negative on Awesomeday (well, I try not to post negative stuff anyway...). However, I feel like I'm expected to participate in Awesomeday, since I helped create it.

I had to turn around my bad attitude and participate in Awesomeday. So here's what I did:

And with that, my attitude started to change. People "liked" this status. And I realized, things are not so bad.

The whole point of Awesomeday is to count your blessings. When you count your blessings, they seem to multiply, and it takes your attention away from things you *don't* like.

So, if you want to participate in Awesomeday, I would love to see you there. You don't even have to "like" the page, or post "Things that are awesome...". Just count your blessings, and watch them grow.

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Scheduling Hour by Hour: Why Have I Never Done This Before?

2012-02-21T13:39:00.000-06:00

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I've heard people talk about how you should schedule blocks of time before, but I've never really thought about it. Yes, I have a daily to do list, and I get those things done (as much as I can, at least), and then whatever doesn't get done gets pushed to the next day. I have long term "to-do" items ("re-organize kitchen cupboards", for example) and short term, immediate items (such as "do meal prep for the coming week"). But something about that was *still* not working.

I was home on Saturday and Sunday with my kids. I had my weekend to-do lists, but felt SO frustrated because it just felt like I wasn't getting the things done that I needed to. I had trouble focusing. Every time I would get started on something, one of them would need something, and then once I got back to whatever I was working on, it took me at least 10 minutes to get back into it. This was not productive at all.

Monday, I stayed home with the kids so my husband could go to some doctor's appointments (nothing serious, just trying to consolidate all the check up type things into one day). So, I decided to try something I had heard about, and made a schedule for each hour of the day. Here's how it looked:

I had already done my Les Mills Pump workout and had some coffee before I started. I don't want y'all to think I sleep until 8 or something...

Let me tell you how much of a difference this made. I mean WOW!
- I knew what I was *supposed* to be doing.
- I knew what was coming next.
- I knew the other things were scheduled, so I could be *present* in the moment.

For example, I scheduled "outside time" for the kids and I from 1:00 - 2:00. It wasn't "kids play outside and I work on cleaning the kitchen" time. I went outside and enjoyed time with my kids.

I got to watch my Princess play ball. Or at least look at the ball.

And you know, it wasn't perfect. I had to readjust a few times during the day. I allowed an hour just for "catching up", which was good. Cleaning my daughter's room took longer than I had planned. But in the end, I got the things done that I planned to do. I didn't feel stifled. I actually felt a little freer (more free? How are you supposed to say that?), when at the end of the day it was all done.

"What do I do with this ball, Mama?"

Inspiration: April the Runner

2012-02-20T12:53:00.000-06:00

Continuing our series of inspirational stories, I wanted to share the story of one of my friends, April.

April and I have known each other since we were about 10 years old. So, we're pretty close to the same age (I'm just a few months older). She is a professional musician, a wife and a mother of 3.

Last summer, she decided she wanted to become a runner. April says, "I started running in June 2011 and I could only run for 2 minutes at a time. I just kept at it and increased my time and distance. The rest is history."

History indeed. I have watched her do some amazing things since that time.

Her first half marathon in September, 2011:

Oh hi, I've only been running for 3 months and just did a HALF MARATHON!

Then, in December, she ran the FULL White Rock Marathon. 26.2 miles. I believe they were 26.2 very rainy miles, from what I heard.

I am so impressed with how far she's come. Now, she's working on her speed. I sometimes can't believe she's only been running since June.

Oh, and one of the benefits of running when you, ahem, our age? You look like this:

April, I'm so proud to know you, and I'm incredibly impressed with all you've accomplished! You inspire me!

The Plan... subject to change..

2012-02-19T17:18:00.000-06:00


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This is the week of the fun workouts. I mean, I always love working out, but this week, I'm only doing fun things.

But, before I show you my plan, I want to show you the video I made of my new ~~closet~~ office.

Not only did I get my closet (mostly) done yesterday, I also managed to run 2 miles, so at least I met my running goal.

Even though I had to adjust my plans last week, I'm still making a plan for this week. I'm going to keep it really simple though, doing the workouts that have a little more "fun" factor. I will still aim for 3 runs this week, Turbokick practice, and strength- but for the strength training I'm going to take a little break from Jamie Eason's program and do Les Mills Pump at home (because it's fun. And I kind of need a break from the potty mouthed boys at the gym).

Monday:
AM Pump
PM Run 2

Tuesday:
Turbokick

Wednesday:
AM Pump
PM Run 2

Thursday:
Turbokick

Friday:
AM Pump
PM Run 2

Saturday:
Turbokick

See? Simple. But I don't have to do the same Pump workout each time (there are so many). I also like the 20 minute "Flow" workout that comes with it as a recovery workout. It's yoga-ish, but not too strenuous, and has lots of hip openers.

Do you have your workouts planned for the week?

Here's to a happy, successful week :-)

Readjusting your goals..

2012-02-18T09:06:00.001-06:00

So, I'm at the end of my workout week, and some things went really well, and some things did NOT go so well.

Things that went well:
- I ran twice (goal was three times. Not counting that out just yet.)
- I had a great practice Turbokick session. I feel really ready to teach.
- I had a couple of great Jamie Eason workouts. (Day 1 and Day 2)
- I had my teeth cleaned for the first time in 20 years.
- I made it through the week.

Things that did not go so well:
- A couple of my morning workouts didn't happen. In one case, I overslept. In the other, I started it but my daughter woke up and was *determined* that I would hold her. Like, climbing on me while I was trying to workout. I had to accept it and stop the workout. Then I felt guilty, because I know one day I'll miss her at this age.
- I didn't get my last two weight workouts in (Legs and Shoulders/Abs). I was set to go to the gym for my lunchtime workout on Friday afternoon, but some things came up at work. I had to make a choice: Go to the gym and have these things hang over me... or just stay in the office, get them done, and feel better. I chose to get them done, and I did feel better.

I guess the point of all this is goals have to be readjusted. If I were preparing for a Figure Competition, this kind of behavior would not do. But right now, my goals are a bit different.

I'll tell you a little something else. I'm having a hard time right now. I've mentioned before that my mom died in February, the day after my birthday. So, that anniversary is always hard for me. Part of me wants to adjust my goals right now to just "survive February".

So I'm going to continue to do the best I can, do things that help take care of me, try to be a good mom, and take it one day at a time. (This doesn't mean I won't plan my week ahead.... I'll just be okay if things come up and it doesn't go perfectly.) Plus, I may plan more of the "fun" workouts- cardio, endorphin boosting, fun workouts- just for now...And I'll keep my diet on track, although I may be having more than one Shakeology a day...

Most importantly, I'll look ahead. There are great things happening...

In other news, I've decided I need to create a dedicated office space in my house, and the only place seems to be my closet. It's actually a really big closet- in fact I think it might actually be bigger than my last office at work. Luckily, you can search "closet office" and get lots of ideas. I'm not planning on creating something Pinterest worthy, but I think it will at least give me a functional space.

This is *not* my closet, but it definitely gives me some good ideas..(Source)

How do you deal with the challenges that come up? Are you flexible? Do you adjust your goals?

High Five Blog Hopping Crazy Friday (of awesomeness)!

2012-02-17T10:13:00.000-06:00

High five, it's Friday!!

If I look like a crazy person, it's because of lack of sleep.

Wow. Now, *this* was a week.

Things I did this week:

Went to get my teeth cleaned for the first time in 20 years (and it was surprisingly not that bad!)
Ran 4 miles so far.
Had to rearrange my workouts just a little bit
Overslept on Thursday
Decided I'm going to get trained as a Zumba instructor.
Stayed up most of the night last night with my daughter, who kept waking up and demanding things from me.

Who me? I'm adorable. You must be thinking of someone else.

This weekend is another organizing weekend. Surprisingly, last weekends organization went really well. So, I'm sticking to the basics. One or two spaces heavy organization, and the rest just basic cleaning.

I'm jumping into some hops again today, because I love people. Here they are:

I also wanted to ~~beg~~ ask for your likes. Come on over to Sarah Fitness! We're friendly!

Do you have fun plans for the weekend? Will you be catching up on things like me (btw catching up also includes shows on the DVR and sleep).
Happy Friday, Friends!!

It's Ok Thursday #4

2012-02-16T09:02:00.000-06:00

I love Thursdays. I love "It's Ok Thursday" because I like to be told that I'm ok.

It's okay...

To take the day after my birthday off from work because that's the day the kids will be in daycare and I need me time...

To be content with the way thing are, but still want more.

To stare at my children while they sleep and get emotional because they won't always be so little.

To beg my children to please, for the love of God, go to sleep (then 5 minutes later stare at them).

To get my teeth cleaned this week for the first time since 1992.

To consider botox.

To keep this picture around to remind me to put things in perspective:

To blatantly, unashamedly ask you to "like" my page so I can get to 1000 by my birthday...

To use a yellow crayon when I can't find an actual highlighter. No one will be able to tell.

To sing this song to myself when I need a little pick-me-up...

How about you? "Doug Doug Dougie Dougie Doug..."

Just keep swimming...

2012-02-15T10:19:00.000-06:00

When life gets you down, you know what you gotta do?

Sing it with me...

"Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming..."

Sometimes there are days you're just not feeling it. Maybe you didn't sleep well. Maybe the kids were crazy this morning. Whatever the reason, you just have to get out of that funk... but how?

Here's the secret. Are you ready? Really? Ok, here goes:

Seriously. Workout. It helps.

I'm not talking about abs, or losing a pants size. I'm talking about "I want to punch someone in the face so I better do something before that actually happens."

It's better to punch the day in the face that an actual person.

So, go through the motions. Do the thing, even if you don't feel like it. Chances are, you'll feel better afterwards. If you don't feel better, at least you can say you accomplished something, right?

That's me, out. Except for one last thing:

Can you stop by Sarah Fitness and click "like"? I'm almost to 1000... it's my birthday goal!

A little dose of inspiration: Jaycee's story

2012-02-14T13:58:00.001-06:00

I recently came across a very inspirational lady through my Facebook page, Sarah Fitness. Jaycee posted about her amazing weight loss using Turbofire (um, yeah, one of my favorite programs!) and I just had to ask her some questions. I hope her experience inspires someone out there who is ready to make a change but not sure how to do it!

Sarah: Jaycee, can you tell me a little bit about your story?

I have battled weight since I was about 9 years old. My parents were divorced and that was the start of a bad custody battle. I would turn to food to fill me up, for comfort, and I just got chubbier and chubbier. The teasing was bad at school but I also got shamed at home. As I got older, I taught myself about fitness and nutrition (via magazines, books, whatever I could get my hands on), and the pounds started to come off. But, I swung in the opposite direction becoming anorexic and exercising for literally hours a day. I did get this under control but my weight has fluctuated drastically my whole adult life as well. 7 years ago, after the birth of my son and 80 pounds overweight, I decided to take control again and did the Turbojam program and lost 70 pounds. But a lack of support and just being so unhappy caused me to gain about 40 of that back.

S: What happened to make you want to change? What was the "breaking point"?

About 5 months ago, I sat down and tried to figure out what was holding me back. I knew I was unhappy, I knew I was overweight and miserable in my body, and I knew how to fix it but couldn't seem to be able to do so. I had a job I loved, great friends, wonderful children and financial security... so what was wrong with me? Why couldn't I just get it together and lose this weight? I was tired of avoiding the camera, of not finding anything to wear, of not being comfortable even to be in front of the mirror. The frustration built and I decided to take some action.

S: What were some of the first steps you took to start your weight loss journey?

I ordered Turbo Fire, remembering my previous success with Turbo Jam, and managed to get through the first 30 days. I lost 15 pounds but it still felt like work and I still felt miserable. I had another sit down with myself and decided to make some other big changes but the biggest one being to care about myself first. I matter and am worthy of love and care.

S: How much weight have you lost so far?

I started the Turbo Fire program again on January 1st and have lost 23 pounds since then for a total of 38 pounds overall since September 2011. I now incorporate running as a part of my fitness regime and just yesterday made it to the top of a hill I never thought I could, running! I was afraid to even walk it 6 months ago!

Jaycee before (on the left).

Jaycee today

S: What is your next goal?

My next goal is to keep working on my running and maybe even do a marathon? Yikes.

S:What has been the biggest "non-cosmetic" benefit to your weight loss? Is there something you can do now that you couldn't before?

I love how I feel physically. I can run up the 2 flights of stairs with my groceries now. I don't get pissy if I don't get front row parking. I know I can pass the other people on the running trail. I know that I could kick some a$$ if I needed to. I know that when I look in my closer I'm always going to be able to find something to wear. I'm addicted to sweat now, and it's an amazing thing.

S:What advice would you give to someone who is wanting to get started?

My advice would be to get your head right. You matter, love yourself enough to use the right fuel and push yourself to your limits physically. Nothing feels as good as accomplishing something you never thought you could, like running up a big hill that you thought was invincible. SO much of this is in your head. You just gotta get it there.

So that's our interview with Jaycee. Some things that she said really resonate with me. You've got to put YOURSELF first if you're going to be any good to anyone else. You are worth it. It's not about looking good in your skinny jeans- even though that's nice. It's about setting goals and achieving them. It's about making it to the top of that hill. You can do it!

When you have every reason in the world for a pity party, but choose not to...

2012-02-13T12:46:00.000-06:00

There are few problems that can't be at least made better by cute puppies and kittens.

I have quite the reputation for being a positive person. I do enjoy being positive. I don't think there's really a point in being negative, and I can find a bright side in almost any situation.

However, I worry sometimes that people think I don't have bad days. I do. In fact, I may be having one right now...

So, I'm going to take a moment to list some of the things that are currently bothering me... not to dwell in them, or have a pity party, but in the hope that it will help you see that- even when life is a bit challenging- it's possible to see a bright side.

Here is my list:
- February is a sucky month from me. Yes, it's my birthday month, but it's also the month my mom died. The day after my birthday. Grr. It's been 7 years and while it gets easier, in a way it gets harder, because I feel like she's further and further away. So every February I kind of go through similar emotions that I did when she was in hospice. It was a stressful, terrible time.

- I feel like I am surrounded by chaos at home. I am very big on planning and organizing (if you haven't noticed yet), but I am surrounded by small children who are *not* quite as interested in that. I did get a LOT done this weekend- I felt like I worked CONSTANTLY- but half of my time was spent cleaning up what I had already cleaned up because of the messes they made.

- My son, whose name is Rowan, asked me last night to only call him Rowan, and not to call him "Roro" (my nickname for him) because at school people are calling him "Stupid Roro." My heart just broke. I know I'm going to have to deal with people not always being nice to my babies, and I'm going to have to resist the urge to take care of it myself... but my heart broke, and just thinking about it makes me tear up. How can anyone not realize how amazing my children are? (Yes, I realize these are the same children who messed up all my organizing...)

- Student loan debt. Thank goodness I have this income from Beachbody. However, when you are in debt as much as we are, even with a great extra job like this, it's going to be a while until we're living like Jay Z.... it's daunting sometimes.

- Sometimes I don't feel appreciated. I think that's typical for most moms. And I'm sure a lot of it is Karma, because I *definitely* didn't appreciate my mom when she was here. So, those two thoughts combined kind of send me into a crying fit sometimes.

With all these issues, I have to admit, it was tempting to feel sorry for myself. "My mom is dead, my kids don't appreciate me, student loans suck..." But in the (almost) 38 years I've been alive, I've learned some tricks..

1. Count your blessings.
The don't call me "Queen of the Bright Side" for nothing.

- Healthy children
- Steady job
- Health insurance
- A home
- A working car
- Friends who love you
- Not being buried alive.
The list goes on...

2. Workout
Now, the last thing you (or I) need when you're having a hard time is to push through a workout that you hate, even if it is on the schedule. So, you know how I'm so big about planning? Sometimes, in attitude emergencies, you have to just do the workout you want to do. Personally, weights don't always put me in a better mood, but a good cardio workout- especially one of my favorites like Turbo, some kind of dance, or step- really puts me in a better mood. Life seems a little brighter afterwards.

3. Change your perspective.
"It's raining? Great! That means I don't have to fix my hair!"
"The kids just threw all the socks I just organized into the air and screamed "It's raining socks!" No problem. Think about how you'll miss this cuteness when they're 15 and you're tempted to shoot their laptop.

Just see what you can find in every situation that might make it better. Or at least the absurdity of it can make you smile a little...

4. Listen to some music that makes you happy.

I wrote a post a little while ago about how some music got me out of my funk. Well, I didn't become a professional musician for nothing...

This made me happy. Even though at times I look at Paul McCartney and think, "Oh, look at the charming elderly English gentleman...", he still rocks. A lot. And this is one of my favorites.

Wow. Just writing all this put me in a better mood. I hope it helped you.

Do you have any tips or tricks to share?

(P.S. Don't forget to stop by Sarah Fitness and click "like". I like you already :-))

Workout Plan for the Week, coming up!

2012-02-12T18:11:00.000-06:00

I've got my plan for the week. I am basing it on these goals:

I want to run 3 times this week.
I want to practice Turbokick
I want to lift 4 days this week. I've decided to start the Jamie Eason Fit Trainer for that. Yes, I'll be adding a little cardio and modifying the schedule a bit, but I am looking forward to trying it.

Monday:
AM: Chest and Triceps
PM: Run

Tuesday:
AM: Turbokick
PM: Back and Biceps

Wednesday:
AM: Piyo
PM: Run

This is what I pretend like I look like while I run..... it helps. Sometimes.

Thursday:
AM: Turbokick or Turbofire
PM: Legs, calves

Friday:
AM: Shoulders/Abs
PM: Run 2

Saturday:
Turbokick/Piyo practice

So that's the plan. I can sleep well tonight knowing what I'm supposed to do when...

I've been really REALLY neglecting running. Then, I get sad when it's hard... when only do it like once a week. So, this week, I'm hoping scheduling it in will help get it done. Weights, Turbo, running... and of course eating right (New Tropical Strawberry Vegan Shakeology comes out this week. I'm ridiculously excited about that, too)...
I'm destined for greatness.

"Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other". ~Abraham Lincoln

Happy Birthday, Mr. Lincoln.

Has anyone done the Jamie Eason fit trainer? What was your experience?
And, if you haven't already, I would love to have you come by my Facebook Page, Sarah Fitness, and click "Like". My goal is to have 1000 "liking people" by my birthday in 2 weeks! We have fun over there too. I'm told it's a motivating place. It motivates me, at least!

Now get that week planned so you have a great one!

High Five Blog Hopping I need more cowbell FRIDAY!

2012-02-10T10:06:00.001-06:00

Happy Friday! High Five!!

Today we need more cowbell. Am I right, Christopher Walken?

Exactly.

I've kind of been wandering around this week slightly behind the 8 ball.

Source

Two days of INTENSE instructor training last weekend, Monday off to recover and catch up on housework (which I never really did), then getting the minimum done the rest of the week. Oh yeah, I planned my meals and workouts, made my to-do lists... I just don't *feel* caught up.

This weekend, I'm hosting a practice class at my house where I'll teach part Turbokick and part Piyo. I've also planned to do a little organizing in my house.

Now, let's talk about this...

Here's what happens: I make a list with all these grand plans for decluttering/cleaning/organizing things in my house. I get about 1/3 done, collapse, and then feel like a failure because my entire house doesn't look like something from Pinterest...

Both of these are from HERE. Great blog.

OMG look at this closet. (Source)

So this weekend, I'm making a very manageable to-do list. I'll focus on cleaning the things that have to be cleaned (like, the strange smell in the refrigerator... or laundry...). Then I'm going to pick one area that needs to be organized. I haven't decided which yet, but it's got to be relatively small. I feel like I need the victory :-)

Anyway, in between organizational projects, let's hop some blogs!

So, if you're new, tell me. I'm glad you're here!

What are your plans for the weekend?
Do you love Pinterest? What's your favorite type of pin?
Any tips for organizing? What room or space should I start with?

Have a great weekend!

(Oh, and if you haven't yet, stop by Sarah Fitness and click "like". My goal is to reach 1000 awesome, amazing fans by my birthday, on February 27. Tell your friends! I promise to remind you to drink water and do my best to keep you motivated, positive and laughing!)

It's Ok Thursday #3

2012-02-09T11:05:00.001-06:00

It's ok...
To have finally become completely and totally obsessed with Pinterest...To spend a ton of time pinning pictures of beautiful organized spaces on PinterestTo wish my home was that organized and beautiful, even though I spend most of my time looking at the pictures instead of organizing and beautifying.To be ridiculously proud of my, ahem, "guns"...

See how sweaty my buddy Alton is? This was after the WARMUP. THE WARMUP..

To talk about last weekends Turbokick and Piyo training AGAIN. To love this picture (no I didn't make it. I'm not sure where it came from.)

To need more coffee just from reading that...To throw in a plug for my Facebook page, Sarah Fitness. Which is awesome. At least I think so.To gaze at THIS instead of doing my work, occasionally:

I realize I'm not the only person ever to have a cute kid, but DANG she's cute.

To have a sit on my chin and try to repeatedly just cover it up with my hair. It's requiring a strange head-lean..To be a librarian and wear this shirt to work, even when it's not "casual Friday".

To stop saying things are okay and just go make some coffee already.
What's okay for you today, my friends?

Turbokick and Piyo Training: A Review

2012-02-07T21:15:00.000-06:00

This weekend, I attended my SECOND ever Turbokick and Piyo trainings.

Back in early February 2003 (not 2002, as I originally thought), I certified in these two formats for the first time. I was 28 (almost 29), and not yet married. We certified on Round 15 in Turbokick, and Piyo had just released Lesson 4 (subtitled "Strength Fustion").

I loved Turbokick, taught it for years, hosted trainings, did everything I could to make it popular where I lived and taught, and even applied to be a presenter (I was rejected. It was rough. Long story.)

The following Summer I got married, and completed my 200 hour Register Yoga Teacher training... so I never really did much with Piyo.

When I found out the training was coming to Nashville, I was very excited about Turbokick, but not really interested in Piyo. I really wanted to train in the other format offered by Powder Blue, Hip Hop Hustle.

Doesn't this look fun?

Anyway, a friend convinced me to go ahead and do the Piyo training as well, and I figured it would add to my marketability as an instructor. Plus, I have heard from *several* different sources that Piyo is *completely* different than before.

This hopefully gives you an idea.

So anyway...

Here's a video I made on my way to training Saturday morning...

And here's a video I took shortly after arriving...

And here's a video of the group doing Turbo (It's a boot leg... and it cuts off suddenly):

Here's a video I took Sunday morning, in anticipation of Piyo day...

So basically, Piyo was AMAZING. It was challenging. There was a cardio effect. It was much more than a "Power Yoga Class". It had "choreography"... but not in a scary way... just in a really organized way (you know I'm a fan of that).

Both days followed the same basic format.

First, we went over basics about the company, the program, and then practiced form and technique.

We had a "masterclass" that was open to the public after that, and got a chance to experience a live class (tons of fun both times).

After a break, we reviewed again, then tested. There were both a practical and a written test. The practical test was exhausting. We had been giving it our all for the whole day.. and I was *really* focused on good form, so I pushed. A lot.

I told someone afterwards that I felt like I ran a half marathon, then took a lunch break, then ran another half marathon. Both days.

I tested for both, and I have to wait to see what my ranking is. *Technically* I'm already certified in Turbokick, so I'm hoping that I was able to test for the higher rank. I could teach at any time, but I need to get my CPR/AED before going to a club or a gym. However, for now, I'll be doing Practice Classes for folks at my house on Saturdays. Even if it's just one person, I'm going to be teaching.

So glad I did this. Next is getting my AFAA Primary Cert reinstated.

I highly recommend training in any of the Powder Blue formats (Turbokick, Hip Hop Hustle or Piyo Strength). I've been involved with this company since 2003. I've watched it grow, and I am still really proud to be involved.

Anyone else done a specialty certification like this? Was it similar?

Also, if you haven't yet, come by Sarah Fitness. It's a great page (not because of me- but because of the folks there). Plus, I have a goal to hit 1000 fans by my birthday on February 27.

The Plan This Week...

2012-02-06T14:29:00.001-06:00

Normally, I plan my workout week on Sunday, but I'm a little behind this week. I had Turbokick and Piyo training all weekend, so I'm just now getting to it. Planning is important, have I mentioned this?

I want to practice the formats I trained on this weekend, so I'll be doing that in the mornings. I also want to run twice and lift 3 times.

Monday: Rest. I'm sore in places I didn't even know had muscles.

Tuesday:
AM: Turbokick Practice
PM: Upper Body at Gym

Wednesday:
AM: Piyo Practice
PM: Lower Body at Gym

Thursday:
AM: Turbokick Practice
PM: Run 2 miles

Friday:
AM: Piyo Practice
PM: Upper Body at Gym

Saturday:
AM: Run 2 miles
Possible practice class at my house combining Turbokick and Piyo (and hey, if no one shows up, I'll see if the kids want to do it...)

I'll do an entire post on training this weekend later, but for now, here's this:

Look at all those future Turbo instructors!

High Five New Friend Weekend Warrior Friday!!

2012-02-03T08:52:00.000-06:00

We made it to Friday! High Five!

Wait. I look a little tired in that one. Here's a better one:

I'm joining in a couple of Blog Hops today. I'm feeling very social:

So, hop along with me, and let's talk about the greatness that is Friday!

Okay, actually the great part is this weekend. I'm super psyched. Turbokick and Piyo training. Oh yeah, oh yeah...

But first, I have some questions for you:

Question 1: What was the best part of your week?

For me it was probably my workout yesterday. It was one of those magical, spiritual, "everything's okay" kind of workouts. I wrote about it a little...

Question 2: What are you looking forward to this weekend?

Two days of fitness certifications. Hanging out with energetic instructors. I hear there's some kind of game on Sunday... but I'm not really interested... (don't hate!)

And.... Go.

We Don't Want The Funk...

2012-02-02T19:30:00.000-06:00

Today, I was in a little bit of a funk. And not the good kind...

Sorry, George (source)

I want you to keep in mind, even in my funks, I still try to be positive. But everyone has days when they're just not feeling it. My daughter was very energetic way past bedtime last night, and then I went ahead and just put her in her crib, and she CLIMBED OUT (which I did not realize was possible) and landed on her head. So I kind of slept with one eye open all night. You know how you just want to be sure...

Then this morning I didn't get my mood lifting cardio... I snuggled with my baby instead, so it was okay, but there was something missing....

I also wasn't really wanting to go to the gym. Yesterday, the college boys were especially rude and sometimes just plain offensive. I didn't really want to deal with them, but I needed to do my shoulders and triceps... no excuses... so I went.

I haven't listened to music at the gym in a while. I got a cover for my Iphone for Christmas, so ever since, it doesn't fit in my arm band... but today I wanted some music, so I put the phone in my cleavage. Because I'm super classy.

I'm amazed at the difference the music made. I was singing (in some cases "rapping") along, feeling like I was super bada$$, and my spirit was totally lifted.

So I wanted to share some of the songs that lifted me up today. Keep in mind, I don't listen to the radio (I'm too much of a control freak), so some of these songs may be driving YOU nuts at this point... but they're still pretty fresh to me.

Fly

Dog Days are Over

Good Feeling

Hey Soul Sister (Glee Version)

I Gotta Feeling (I love this song, but dang, the grammar always makes me mad!)

And then, I went out, and had a much better run than last time, in beautiful weather.

Do you have a song (or several) that get you out of your "Funk"?

It's Ok Thursday #2

2012-02-02T08:11:00.000-06:00

It's Okay...

-- To send my 4 year old to school today in cowboy boots because we couldn't find his sneakers.

He does love the cowboy boots

-- To spend 30 minutes snuggling with my 17 month old princess instead of doing my morning cardio.

Well, could *you* resist?

-- To reel from the fact that I turned 18 20 years ago this month.

High School Graduation. 1992. OMG.

-- To wear socks that absolutely don't match, as long as no one sees them.
-- To love peanut butter.
-- Coffee. Something about coffee.
-- To know there's some kind of sporting event happening this weekend, but not really be sure what it is..
-- To have the kind of day where the brewed coffee is just not strong enough, and you have to add a packet of Via. Yawn.
-- To enjoy Phineas and Ferb more than your children do.

Seriously. Best part of my day.

-- To kind of, temporarily, suck at running.
-- To lick your glasses to clean them, as long as no one's looking.
-- To fill a post with cute pictures of your children.

What's okay with you today?

Well, that run kind of sucked a lot...

2012-01-31T18:04:00.002-06:00

Yesterday, I received this email from Daily Mile:

Wow. Thanks for that, Daily Mile.

So, I had planned to go out and run today anyway, but after this, I was even more determined. I imagined all my friends logging into Daily Mile saying, "Did Sarah run yet?" and then after scrolling through the entries, hanging their heads in despair.

Source

I went out and set my Nike + for 2.1 miles.

I hated every second.

This was me:

I made it 1.67 miles. A crippling side stitch and *very* heavy legs convinced me to just walk the rest of the way.

While I was tempted to get depressed, maybe even cry a little, I caught myself. I stopped. I got real.

You're welcome

The reality is that I've been focused on other things. I'm not a failure. I'm just not someone who has run much lately. If I did it more often than every 9 days, I'd get better. So that's what I'm going to do. I have control. I have the power.

So there.

And here's this.

(And now at least my friends at Daily Mile won't be so sad...)

Why do challenge groups work?

2012-01-31T10:23:00.000-06:00

So, as I've mentioned before, I'm a Beachbody Coach. In trying to find new ways to help people reach their weight loss goals, I've started running challenge groups. Challenge groups are groups of 5 people who work together for 30 days.

Each month, I host a challenge for 30 days. The response to our January Challenge has been so great, I've added additional groups for February. The groups that are starting on February 1st are full, so I'm considering starting a group on Valentine' day, if there is enough interest.

Each challenge group is very small and intimate with just 5 people. We all commit to our fitness goals, health goals, diet, and stay accountable to one another.

Everyone will:

- Drink Shakeology Daily
- Workout 5-6 days a week.
- Log their meals daily

- Check in daily with the group.

So if you are thinking “Well I don’t have shakeology” well then YES what I am saying is you will have to commit to getting on Shakeology and drinking it 1 time per day. This will be a commitment for the 5 people I take in and I want us all to be 100% committed… I plan on giving 110% of myself to YOU to help you reach success and I want you to do the same!

Some people are starting out with Challenge Packs, and seeing great success. Here are the Challenge Packs to choose from:

So, are you interested? OF COURSE YOU ARE .… Before I break it down for you FIRST you need to go to Team Beachbody to sign up for a FREE account with me so I am your official Beachbody Coach.

Now, Let me break it down for you…..

February Beachbody Challenge:

1. DECIDE & COMMIT to joining my Beachbody Challenge

2. Choose the workout program you would like to do

3. Choose Chocolate or Greenberry Shakeology

4. Receive CHALLENGE CONFIRMATION email from me with tips on how to track progress, how to measure, recipes, fitness tips, goal setting, how to schedule workouts, how to join our PRIVATE facebook challenge group, etc

5. Succeed!

Here are some testimonials that our January group members have been posting:
"I will have my measurements up this evening after work, but I can tell you this, I was in a rush this morning and just grabbed some pants out of the closet and threw them on. Well, upon closer inspection these were pants that I have not worn since being pregnant. That's over two years ago! I have lost two pant sizes!"

"Only 26 days in and my girlfriend just told me I look "slimmer and fitter."

"Ok, my morning was crazy and it was about choices. I woke up late and nothing for my breakfast or lunch was prepared. We just remodeled the kitchen and are not able to use the counters. I thought about not making my lunch and just grabbing something. I also thought about not making my Shakeology because the blender had been used by someone else and wasn't clean. I was already late getting started, but I wanted to make my day go well. So I found a smaller blender to make my shake and took the time to prep my lunch. Even though I felt rushed I made it in time to rehearse my choir and I started off my morning right. I made the healthy choices for my lunch, not the quick grab and go decision I would have made. I am slowly changing my life."

"So a couple of weeks ago I told Sarah that I bought a new belt and it would be really cool when I could pull it further in a notch. Well I did this morning."

Why do they work?
1. Fitness.
2. Nutrition.
3. Accountability.
4. Support

You get it all. All you have to do is give 100%.

January Goals in Review: How Did I Do?

2012-01-30T10:27:00.001-06:00

At the end of 2011, I set some goals. I also came up with a plan for January, since I think it's more effective to set monthly goals rather than annual goals (or at least to break down the annual goals into smaller pieces).

So, how did I do?

Things I said I'd do this year:

1. Nutrition.

January has been *okay*. I have been about 80% on track with my nutrition plan from Amy. I know to get the hard core results, I need to be 100%. I'm going to aim to improve that in February.

2. Fitness.

I set a goal at the beginning of January that I would work up to running 4 miles again. I didn't really do that. I only ran 12 miles in January. I decided about mid-month to run 2 times a week, and run 2-3 miles each time. But then I got sick, and didn't quite do that...

3. Beachbody.

I set some pretty lofty goals for 2012 with my Beachbody business, but I broke them down into monthly goals. I'm happy to say I've done *really* well. For example, my income goal in January was $800, and I made $722. Close, and I'll take it.

4. Get certified to- and actually- teach group exercise again.

I'll be certifying again in Turbokick and Piyo next weekend! And I'm about 90% sure I'll be going to APEX in February to do my AFAA Group Exercise Primary. So, I'm REALLY REALLY close, and I can't wait!

5. Pay cash for a car.

Of the things on this list, this has seen the smallest amount of progress. However, some of my other goals will be helpful in reaching this goal, so I'm not worried. I feel like as the other goals are met, this one will come together.

As for February, I'm hitting the ground running. But I'm adding another goal (you may be able to help): I want my Facebook page, Sarah Fitness, to reach 1000 fans by my birthday, February 27. Can you help?

How are you doing on your New Year's Resolutions? Are you reviewing them monthly (or planning to)?

Have a great week and finish out January STRONG!

The Plan

2012-01-29T11:00:00.000-06:00

Another week, another plan. I love planning. Have you noticed?

Here's what's up this week:

Sunday: Hip Hop Hustle practice, abs (probably Pump Core. Haven't done that workout yet).

Monday:
AM: Turbo
PM: Chest and Back

Tuesday:
AM: Hip Hop Hustle Practice
PM: Run 2 miles

Wednesday:
AM: Turbo
PM: Legs

Thursday:
AM: HHH Practice
PM: Shoulders and Arms

Friday:
AM: Yoga
PM: Run 2 miles

Saturday:
Turbokick training (all day)

Sunday:
Piyo training (all day)

Once again, to save this post from mind-numbing boredom, here are some pictures to entertain you. Today's pictures involve cute kitties...

Seriously. Ridiculous cuteness right here. (Source)

Kitteh cares about your diet..

Once upon a Turbo..

2012-01-28T21:10:00.000-06:00

Let me tell you a story.

Once upon a time, I was a group exercise instructor. It was a dream of mine. I invited friends over to my house to practice teaching them step classes. I was determined. I worked at it, and became a pretty good instructor.

I certified to teach Turbokick back on Round 15. (Those of you who take or teach Turbokick will know how long ago that was... ahem, Round 47...) This was back when you could call the company and Chalene Johnson's husband would answer the phone. Back when the Rounds came on VHS. (I remember how exciting when Round 16 came out on DVD. After I bought the Elite 11 on VHS).

The day after the Turbokick training, I attended "Piyo" training, which, at the time, was a 3-4 hour workshop. I think they were on Piyo lesson 3 or 4.

Anyway, I taught for a while. I became a Registered Yoga Teacher (200 hour), got my AFAA Primary Group Exercise certification, took Senior Fitness training, went to Dallas Mania, got certified in a bunch of 24 Hour Fitness formats... I achieved my dream. I even worked as a group exercsie coordinator for a while. My classes were popular, and I was having lots of fun. I was in graduate school during this time, and had the freedom to teach 8-10 classes a week. I loved it.

I lost interest, however, when I was pregnant with my son. Despite the training I had in prenatal fitness, I was convinced that doing anything might be dangerous and I didn't want to risk it. (I also watched Discovery Health all the time, and knew every possible thing that could go wrong. I was pretty paranoid that entire time). I taught a few classes pregnant, but mainly just let my certifications lapse and quit.

Then I became a librarian and a mom and had a whole new life. I have missed it since.

When I was pregnant with my daughter in Summer 2010, I made it a goal that one day I would teach again. I knew it would be a while, but I committed to making it happen.

Here I am 2 weeks before my daughter was born. With my BFF Carl Daikeler.

So now, I am really close. And I'm so so excited.

Saturday, I'll be attending all day Turbokick training. Sunday is Piyo training. I'll be doing both.
I've already been looking into places I can teach.

I can't wait.

I feel like I'm finally back. My passion is fitness, and Beachbody has made it possible for me to find it again....

High Five Blog Hopping Friday (of awesomeness)!

2012-01-27T10:23:00.000-06:00

High Five!

Don't forget to join us for the Weekend Warrior Blog Hop!

So. This week.

I had a plan. It didn't go exactly as I had hoped it would. But that's okay.

I spent most of the week dealing with The Sickness. Sniffles that turned into a full on "What is all this stuff in my head and chest?" I even took a complete day off on Tuesday and rested. The rest of the week, I didn't do much cardio. I had wanted to spend the mornings doing Turbo and Hustle, but cardio just wasn't much fun. I didn't even run. At all.

But I *did* do my strength workouts. Chest and back on Monday. Shoulders on Wednesday. Legs on Thursday. Friday will be biceps and triceps. Then on Saturday, I hope to run. Possibly.

Today marks exactly one month until my 38th birthday. I get a little weird around birthday time. Like, "How on earth has it been 20 years since I turned 18?" I mean, I didn't *feel* like we were living in the dark ages... but we didn't even have internet, cell phones (well, the only people with cell phones were the kids on "90210"), DVR (I used to record all my soaps for the week on a VHS with a timer, and watch them on the weekends. Dark ages).

Wow. Now I feel even older.

Seriously, though, I do remind myself around this time that, overall, I'm happier, healthier, and in better shape than I was at 18 (except I had fewer forehead wrinkles then...)

Who has fun plans for the weekend? We're once again planning our crazy, wild, Friday night with a Redbox movie night. I know, we're crazy....

Have a great weekend!

It's Ok Thursday... my first time...

2012-01-26T09:36:00.000-06:00

I recently discovered "It's Ok Thursdays" and, oh my goodness, what a great idea!

I think all of us... especially moms, who deal with all that Mommy guilt all the time... need to be reassured that "It's ok".

It's ok.....

... to have 4 cups of coffee before 9 am.
... to lock yourself in the bathroom when the kids are just too much.
... to sub "chocolate chips" for "fruit" in your oatmeal, as long as the calories match up.
... to paint your nails on the toilet (when locked in the bathroom as mentioned). Just be ready to wait for them to dry.
... to create Ryan Gosling "Hey Girl" pics way too much, because Picnik is closing and you're freaking out.

... to take a personal day and send the kids to daycare, just so you can lay in bed and catch up on the DVR.
... to cry to an Adele song in the car, even when you really have nothing to be sad about.
... to drink another cup of coffee even though you had 4 before 9 am.

Thanks for this AWESOME thing, ladies. I am looking forward to many more "It's ok Thursdays".

Sarah

(P.S. Come by Sarah Fitness and click "like". Be one of the cool kids).

Lesson Learned: There is no such thing as a perfect week

2012-01-25T09:50:00.000-06:00

So, I planned out my week of workouts, and then had to take Tuesday off completely. I was sick. I fought it as much as I could, but I finally just accepted it on Tuesday.

This got me thinking, while I will *always* stress the importance of planning (that will never change), sometimes we have to accept that there is no such thing as a perfect week.

Success comes from making good choices repeatedly. Daily. Sometimes hourly (because you know you can blow a day's worth of good eating in 30 minutes or less.) Missing one day of workouts, in the big picture, is not that big a deal.

So, now I have a couple of things to tell you about. First, if you haven't visited Awesomeday, do so today! Awesomeday is the one day of the week where every status update we post on Facebook has to be a "thing that is awesome". This makes you count your blessings and ignore the things that aren't. Anyway, there's a contest today, so head on over and check it out.

Also, I'm joining a Blog Hop today, so if you're new, I hope you'll comment below! I love friends :-)

Happy ~~Wednesday~~ Awesomeday!

Take Action

2012-01-24T08:35:00.000-06:00

Source

"Nothing diminishes anxiety faster than action." ~Walter Anderson

Do you sit around and worry about stuff?

How's that working for you?

Source

Honestly, sometimes you do feel paralyzed. Something needs to happen. You need to take that next step, but you're not sure what to do. You're scared. Maybe you're afraid of failure. And that's normal. We are all a little afraid. But nothing happens... if nothing happens.

So, my assignment for you today is this:
Think of something in your life that you want to change.
Take one step towards changing that today.

It's easy to talk all day about the great things you will do, and that's important, too. We want to have the vision in our mind all the time. But there comes a time when the talk has to stop and the action needs to happen.

So, go do it. And get closer to that goal.

"Action is the antidote to despair." ~Joan Baez

When life happens...

2012-01-23T09:00:00.002-06:00

Source

Have you recently committed to a new goal? Maybe it's a weight loss goal. Maybe it's training a physical accomplishment, like an endurance race. I want to let you know something now.

You will be challenged.
Life will happen.

Don't worry, though. These challenges give you a chance to decide: Are you interested, or are you COMMITTED?

"There is a difference between interest and commitment. When you're interested in something, you do it only when it's convenient. When you're committed to something, you accept no excuses, only results." ~ Ken Blanchard

Let's face it- bad days are going to happen. I'm not being a pessimist, it's just true. But they don't have to derail you. They don't have to define you.

What you need to do is plan. What will you do in the event that something happens? Will you give in to temptation because you had a bad day? Or will you remember your commitment?

Plan in advance by setting clear goals, and be ready. Keep these thoughts in mind:

1. Define your "why": What was the reason you started this? Did you see a "fat" picture of yourself, draw a line in the sand, and say, "enough!"? Did you get winded climbing a flight of stairs? Did you get a wake-up call from the doctor? Keep that feeling fresh in your mind for the times when you just don't feel like working out, or you feel a binge coming on. If your "why" is clear, you'll be able to hold onto it easier when temptation strikes.

2. Avoid "I deserve it." This is so dangerous. I want you to think about exactly what you deserve. After a long day, I know I find myself thinking, "I deserve that piece of pie." But, you know, what do you *really* deserve? Try replacing that thought with "I deserve to be proud of the way I look in my bikini. I deserve to feel great. I deserve to succeed."

3. Get a support group. Find at least one other person who shares your goal. Either online, or a friend you see every day. But you need a place to go for support, and it helps if there are folks with the same goals. (Shameless plug: You can find lots of fitness minded folks at Sarah Fitness :-))

So, be prepared for challenges by being committed. It's a daily choice!

The plan next week, and the week in review...

2012-01-22T19:36:00.000-06:00

Building on last week's workouts. I pretty much did what I had planned. But, this week, I wanted to add some Hip Hop Hustle practice (another format I'm going to start teaching soon, along with Turbo). I also decided I only want to run 2 times this week. The focus will be on heavy lifting, 5 days a week, and I have those laid out below.

And there's a little pic at the bottom.

Monday:
AM: Turbo
PM: Back

Tuesday:
AM: Hip Hop Hustle
PM: Lower- Heavy quads

Wednesday:
AM: Hustle
PM: Shoulders/Run

Thursday:
AM: Turbo
PM: Hamstrings, glutes

Friday:
AM: Hip Hop Hustle
PM: Chest, bi, tri

Saturday: Run 2 (or maybe 3 if I'm feeling crazy).

Also, this....

High Five Blog Hopping Friday!

2012-01-20T09:45:00.000-06:00

High Five, It's Friday!!

Doing some blog hopping today:

I'm SOOOO glad it's Friday. So so glad. I love Friday. Have I mentioned I'm really happy it's Friday?

When people ask me what "plans" I have for the weekend, I realize what I tell them may be a bit disappointing.... but it's exactly what I want to be doing:

- Cleaning and organizing around the house

- Reading a new book I just got

- Having movie night with my husband (the closest thing to a date night we get these days)

- Working out

- Doing my meal prep for next week

- Taking one, maybe two, naps

- Probably doing some parenting in there as well.

What are you up to this weekend? Hope it's something fun. Yes, naps are considered fun in my opinion!

Oh, and any ideas for movie night? We'll be Redboxing it.. but I don't even know what's out right now.

Happy Friday!

Update on my January Beachbody Income Goal!

2012-01-20T09:00:00.001-06:00

So, I posted a while back that I set a goal of earning $800 this month through my business as an Independant Team Beachbody Coach. The Beachbody week ends on Wednesday nights and starts again on Thursday, and you get paid the following Thursday.

Let me say that clearer:

A period ended Wednesday night. I'll get paid for that a week from Thursday. Since that will be the last Thursday of January, I already know how much my income is going to be.

So, I set a goal of $800. I ended up making $722.00

Now, I didn't quite make the goal, but you know what? I'm not sad. I think $722 in a month just for doing something I love to do is actually quite a good deal.

Anyone want to try it? I'm not saying it's going to happen right away... but if you're willing to do the "work", you have the possibility of succeeding!

Watch this video:

To join my team, click here.

Click HERE to find out more about the compensation plan.

Practicing what I preach...

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, I decided the theme of the day over at Sarah Fitness was "No Excuses!" Every quote I posted had to do with not having excuses. I wrote a blog post about it.

However, the universe decided to test me on my commitment to the "No Excuses!" plan.

First, the job got demanding!

(Yes, that's a 2 liter bottle of Publix sparkly water.)

When I finally got the time to go change for the gym, I opened my gym bag, and the clothes were wet:

Well, rather than make an excuse, I put on a wet sports bra, the shirt I was wearing at work, and pants that (luckily) weren't too wet.

(And then I took my picture in the bathroom)

I ran for 5 minutes, then worked the heck out of my shoulders (I switched dates, I think it was supposed to be chest but I was in a shoulder mood).

Just want to show that, if you're committed to something, there is NOTHING that can stop you!

Now, go have a successful day!

Excuses!

2012-01-18T06:28:00.000-06:00

Is there something you don't like about your life right now? It could be your weight, your house, your job, your financial situation... whatever it is, I have great new. Are you ready?

"I'm ready!"

You can change it!

Wow. Did you hear that? Let me say it again:

You can change it!

It just takes a series of choices, one after another.

Today I want you to make a list. I want you to list 5 things that you want to be different in your life.

Then, I want you to list possible solutions. Be careful (and aware) of any excuses that pop into your brain:

"That's too expensive."

"I'm too old."

"I don't have enough time."

Those "excuses"? Don't write them down. Focus on SOLUTIONS. Yes, you may in a situation where you can't change things right now. Your job, your financial situation, and other things may take time to change. But they *can* change?

And you can take steps toward change today. They can be small, but a step of any size is still a step, and it will get you closer to your goal.

If you'd like to share your list below, you can. Or you can keep it to yourself. But do me (and yourself) a favor, and make that list. Make a difference in your life, and take those steps TODAY!

(Source)

Thoughts on "The Biggest Loser"

2012-01-17T08:17:00.001-06:00

Source

I have a lot of conflicting thoughts on the TV show, "The Biggest Loser." I didn't even watch the last two seasons, mainly because my TV time is limited, and it wasn't a priority. But, there have been 2 episodes so far of this new season (Season 5000, I think... At least it seems like that ) and I'm having all kinds of thoughts I want to share.

I should add that I very rarely watch it live. I just can't stand to watch all the challenges, so I fast forward through them most of the time.

As I watched the first workout session of this season, I got angrier and angrier. They went on and on about how hard this workout was. Contestants were passing out, throwing up, and the trainers are saying things like "This is what it takes to be healthy."
It really worries me that people who are overweight look at this and think, "Well, if that's what it takes to be healthy, I don't think I want to try it." And then, they don't.

What I want people to know is that you don't have to throw up to start a workout program and be healthy. The two basic components of weight loss are "Eat less, move more".

Now, I'm all for hardcore workouts. I love them. But for someone who is just starting out, I think it's really important to start slow. You risk injury if you don't, plus if you hate something.. you tend to not want to do it.

Another issue I have with this show is that it creates unrealistic expectations for weight loss. At the weigh-ins, contestants are pulling 8 -10 pounds in a week, and if they lose less than 5 pounds, they're disappointed.

I saw a Facebook friend complain this week that she *only* lost 2.6 pounds. In the real world, that is an impressive amount, and just what you should aim for. Lasting, safe weight loss happens at a rate of 1-2 pounds a week. So, rather than being proud of her accomplishment, this girl was beating herself up.

I realize that there has to be a certain amount of drama for a TV show to retain interest. No one is going to tune into a show to watch people lose 1-2 pounds a week, and walk on the treadmill for 45 minutes, 3 times a week. But I just want to make sure that anyone out there who needs to start a fitness or weight loss program knows that this show is *not* real life.

So, keep watching the Biggest Loser. I will stay involved this season (even if I do fast forward through a lot of it). I do enjoy seeing people get smaller each week. And, if this show inspires someone to get fit at all, even with unrealistic expectations, I guess it's doing some good. But, please, watch it with these things in mind. Be happy with steady, consistent weight loss, and enjoy exercise. It's about being healthy, after all.

Planning my week...

2012-01-16T08:18:00.000-06:00

I always find that planning is the key to success. I may have even said this before.

I wanted to get my workout week on paper (or, more accurately, on Blogger). I'm basing it on the following goals:
1. I want to lift 6 days this week, working legs twice.
2. I want to run 3 times this week (we broke up temporarily.)
3. I want to get a chance to practice Turbo.

So here you go:

Monday:
AM: Pump, Back
PM: Run 2 miles

Tuesday:
AM: Turbo
PM: Legs

Wednesday:
AM: Pump, Chest
PM: Run 2 miles

Thursday:
AM: Turbo
PM: Legs

Friday:
AM: Pump, Shoulders
PM: Run 2 miles

Saturday:
AM: Turbo
PM: Biceps/Triceps

This post is mainly for my own use, but just in case it's too dull for you, here's a picture:

Getting back on track after a slip...

2012-01-14T16:39:00.000-06:00

So, I had a dietary slip last night.


(Source)

I had a rough day, and I cheated on my diet. There were several factors involved, but the fact is I choose to eat some things that weren't on my plan.

We've all been there. I wanted to write about it because, it's the 14th of January, we're 2 weeks into the new year, and maybe some folks who set their resolutions 2 weeks ago have also slipped.

I came up with some tips to help if you feel yourself slip-sliding down that road...

1. Plan
One of the issues I had last night was that I didn't have my dinner prepped. I was tired after work, and my husband was having pizza, so when it came time to eat, it was easier to just eat the pizza. One piece wouldn't have been too bad. Two might not have been that bad. I had three. Then I kept going with some chocolate chips. And a Skinny Cow Ice Cream Sandwich.

Source

2. Get out of the situation

There are times when a cheat has the potential to become a complete, all-out binge. You eat one thing. Then you start thinking, "What can I eat next". Before you know it, you've binged on a bunch of stuff you may not even remember.

I could have kept eating after the Skinny Cow. I was in the mood to do it, and stuffing my face was making me feel better (even though it was temporary). But I caught myself, and I just left the kitchen. I brushed my teeth. It took a lot of strength of will, but I did it. And once I was away from the situation for a moment, I remembered my goals. So you do whatever you have to do remove yourself and break the spell. You can prevent an even more extreme slip.

3. Take responsibility- without beating yourself up.

There is a fine line here. It does absolutely no good to beat yourself up for the slip. However, justifying it doesn't help you either. "It's not my fault. I was stressed out." The fact is that eating something you shouldn't doesn't change your worth as a person. It just takes you farther away from your goals. So, as long as you eat what you shouldn't, you won't reach your goals. If you can step away impartially, you can see that, and hopefully make better choices next time.

I hope these tips help you. But I really want to hear if you have any. What do you do to get back on track?

Les Mills Pump: How I'm Making it Work for Me

2012-01-11T11:47:00.000-06:00

I posted last week that I started Les Mills Pump. I really like it, but I wanted to find a way to work it into the other things I wanted to be doing.

I want to continue working my legs heavy. I feel like I get the best results doing that. I also really want to keep working on pullups.

Also, I want to to Turbo- either Turbokick, Turbofire or Turbojam, since I'll be recertifying to teach Turbokick at the beginning of next month. (Oh, did I mention this? YAY!)

So, here's what I'm doing:

I aim for 4 lifting workouts each week: 2 upper and 2 lower.

For the lower body workouts, I do heavy legs at the gym.
For the upper body workouts, I do Pump.

Let me explain:

Each Pump workout divides the body parts into songs, or "tracks". For example: A squat track, a biceps track, a shoulder track.

There are two tracks in each Pump workout that focus entirely on lower body: The squat track, and the lunge track. During those tracks, I do pullups. I don't just constantly do them the whole time (good grief, that would be challenging).

But I do 5 pullups (assisted... for now), then walk around for about 60 seconds, and do another set.

There is one track that has back work and deadlifts. I go ahead and do that track, because I don't think it will hurt to do some light deadlifts.

So far, this is working great for me. I still have time to do Turbo and run, and I'm getting the lifting done that I want to do right now.

It just takes a little planning and flexibility (I think I have a theme going on here)...

Shakeology: What's so great about it?

2012-01-11T09:02:00.000-06:00

If you're looking for more energy, more nutrition, more regularity, for just $4 a day, watch this short video on Shakeology:

Then if you're serious about making a change in your overall health, send me a message.
uberlibrarian(at)gmail(dot)com.

Make the investment in your health!

Want to Win a Workout Program?

2012-01-10T09:28:00.000-06:00

Hooray! We did it!

You may remember (or not)- but we had a standing contest recently. When Sarah Fitness (my Facebook page) reached 700 fans, I promised to give away a workout program. Specifically, Shaun T.'s Rockin' Body program:

(Hey, y'all remember when I met Shaun T.? Well, just in case you forgot):

Anyway, back to the post...

It happened this morning! We passed 700 fans. So, let's get this contest underway!

How to enter:
1. Go to Sarah Fitness (click "Like" and become a fan if you haven't).
2. Scroll down the wall to the post that starts with "Holy Moly".
3. "Like" this post to enter.

I will print out the likes, cut them up into individual names, and have one of my cute children draw a winner.

You have until 8:00 AM CST on Wednesday, January 11 to enter!

So, hop on over and do some clicking!

Loving the Monday!

2012-01-09T09:49:00.000-06:00

Okay, that may be a little bit of an exaggeration.

More like this:

Either way, Monday has its benefits:

- Fresh start of a new week!
- A chance to get organized.
- A chance to get back into the routine, if you had a crazy weekend...

So, I'm starting off the week successfully. Here are the things I did to increase my chances that things will go as planned (remember, planning + flexibility...)

1. Prepared my meals for Monday through Friday. Every meal. (I'll do a post on that later, with some tips. Seriously- it's the best thing I do. Besides parent effectively, of course).
2. Planned my workouts.
3. Made my to-do list

Now, I realize (AGAIN) that even the best planned week can change....

How are you making sure your week starts off right?

So Thankful to be a Beachbody Coach

2012-01-06T09:02:00.010-06:00

Okay you guys,
I just have to share. I set a goal to make $800.00 this month with my Beachbody Business. It's January 6 and I've already made $292.00

I am on the road to paying off my HUMONGOUS student loan debt, and I'm doing it with something I love to do!

If you think this could be something for you, watch this video, then contact me! It's not for everyone, but I'm so glad it's for me!

Click HERE to join my awesome team!

Go HERE to find out more about the Coach Compensation Plan.

Blog Hopping..

2012-01-06T08:33:00.000-06:00

It's been a while since I blog hopped. I thought it would be a fun Friday thing.

If you're new here, WELCOME! I love you! New people ROCK!

If you're not new, I love you! People who have been here a while ALSO rock!

Comment below and let me know if you're a new follower! And HAPPY FRIDAY!

All it takes is a little planning... and flexibility..

2012-01-05T13:17:00.000-06:00

Source

My deep thought for you today: There are two keys to success. 1. Planning. 2. Flexibility to adapt when the plan doesn't work out.

I'm flexible, but not *this* flexible. (Source)

I am a planner. I get really nervous if I don't have a plan. I plan my workouts. I put them in my calendar. If someone asks me to meet with them during that time, I tell them I'm not available. It's true: I'm not.

Source

I plan my meals in advance. I prepare them as many days in advance as I can. This way, I'm never looking around, wondering what to eat next. I still struggle. I still get tempted, and I have to make the choice one day, one hour (sometimes one minute) at a time. But having the food prepared and ready makes it about 90% easier to stay on track.

I plan my workouts too. I need to have a certain amount of running, a certain amount of lifting, and hopefully some gentle yoga or stretching on a rest day. But things happen. Some days, I oversleep (like I did Wednesday) and miss a planned workout. Or, I'm more sore than I thought I would be, and I no it would probably hurt more than help for me to do a certain workout.

The point is, I'm flexible. I aim to get the workouts I'm supposed to get in during the week. But if I need to rearrange and modify, I'll do it.

Right now, I'm running a Beachbody Challenge Group. There are five members who work out daily, drink Shakeology, and check in at least once a day in our Facebook group. These folks are doing great and are all really committed to seeing some progress! (I can't wait to share their results with you).

Anyway, one of the members posted yesterday that his legs hurt, and he was scheduled to do a leg intensive workout, so he changed his planned workout. He worked some upper body and abs and swam- all still a great workout. He was flexible enough to know that the plan could be changed. He still got a great workout. He'll still see results.

So, I guess what I'm trying to say is this:
1. Plan
2. Be flexible

Oh, and come on over to Sarah Fitness. The contest is STILL going on- when we get to 700 fans, I'll do a random drawing and give away a copy of Shaun T.'s "Rockin' Body"...

Have you ever had this day?

2012-01-04T09:12:00.000-06:00

Looks a little like me after the trip. (source)

Today is my first day back at work after almost 2 weeks off. Well, "off" as in "traveling, parenting, visiting". I feel a little tired still. In fact...

I had the highest of hopes for this morning. I had done pretty much everything I could do last night: cooked my food for the next few days, gave the kids a bath, fought with children who wanted to put things in the toilet, fished half of a door-childproofing-thing out of the toilet.... so I just set my alarm a little early so I could workout AND get my meals together for the day. 4:15 am.

This morning at 6:45 my husband woke me from a deep sleep: "Don't you need to get up?"

This was me (source)

I kind of wandered around the kitchen for a minute, in a panic, wondering what to do first. Eventually I got it together and got my meals prepped (including breakfast. It was going to have to go with me). I showered and got ready, and managed to leave the house about 10 minutes before I was supposed to be at work.

Just as I was leaving, my son decided to throw a huge, jumping up and down, screaming, spitting tantrum. So that made leaving a little more fun (although I did feel a bit bad for my husband, who would be staying there all day).

Here's my point: My meals are prepped and I'm eating right, so missing the morning workout is not as tragic as it could have been. I'm not counting on it to "burn calories". So, it's no big deal. Later, I'll go to the gym for my heavy workout, as planned.

I'm also planning on consuming more coffee. Yes, even though I'm rested, I still need it.

Hope you have a peaceful, centered day, with few tantrums (although, if you're going to throw one, make it a good one).

Les Mills Pump- (very) early impressions.

2012-01-03T21:49:00.000-06:00

I have been so excited about this.

I arrived home from an 11 hour (!!!) car ride with 2 small children, and found my Les Mills Pump set waiting for me!

I remember around 10-11 years ago when "Body Pump" was first super popular, and other formats were popping up like it. Cathe Friedrich's "Power Hour" and Jeri Love's "Get Ripped" series are done in the style: one song per body part/movement. In the fitness world, there was 24 S.E.T. and Rep Reebok, that were both really similar.

I previewed a few of the workouts and decided to do PUMP and SHRED as my first workout.

Since I've done this style of workout so much, my first PUMP workout seemed really familiar to me.

Now a couple of initial thoughts:

GOOD:
- Many of the coaches have New Zealand accents (this is where Les Mills originated). I enjoy those very much. So classy. And it doesn't at all remind me of "Flight of the Conchords". (Okay, maybe a little bit.)

-The music is GREAT! They really work with the music, which I appreciate a lot. If the music builds, the activity builds. It really helps with the energy. This group ex girl LOVES this kind of thing.

- It is REALLY a challenge! If you are a lifter (like me), you will be surprised at how much less weight you use. For example, I usually bench press 65 pounds. But during the Chest section, I got pretty tired with a 25 pound barbell, and had to go to 15.

Not as good:
- Some of the banter can get old. There are some cute, funny catchphrases they use.. but I can see myself getting tired of them by the 5th or 6th time to do the workout.

- In my Group Exercise days, I led squats that went right alone to the beat of the music. I was taught that you should squat only to parallel- no farther. But then I started lifting and heard the gospel of the full squat. I worked hard to increase my range of motion. But, in these workouts, I find that it's quite impossible to do a full squat in the tempo of the music. So, I'm torn. I'll still work on as much range of motion as I can, but I may have to go elsewhere to get my heavy full squat quota.

The set also comes with a barbell. It is nice. I don't think it weighs anything at all. But, what I found REALLY impressive is that my weight plates fit on it. So, I'm not limited to the 2 10s and 2 5s that came with the set. And that is SO awesome.

So, I'm sure as I do more of the workouts, I'll have more opinions. I may even have different opinions. I reserve that right. But, overall, I really like it. I know I'm going to look forward to doing it.

Anyone else done it and have something to add?

If you want to try it, go HERE.

First Run of the Year, and the Plan for January

2012-01-01T13:33:00.000-06:00

I completed my first run of the year on Sunday- a 4 mile run outside. I really did not want to do it. I stalled and stalled. I went to the bathroom about 30 times before finally going outside. I just wasn't excited about doing it at all.

I planned to run 4/walk 1 just because I wasn't feeling my best, and that was the only way I could convince myself to get out there. ("You only have to run 4 minutes at a time! Piece of cake!").

It was quite a challenge. The weather was beautiful and I tried to focus on that. But honestly, every minute of running was a challenge. Even with the walk breaks (and they got way more frequent than every 4 minutes during the last mile), I still only added about 45 seconds a mile to my normal time.

Normally, when I run, and I see other runners, we always wave, smile or somehow acknowledge each other in a friendly way. Well, I saw 3 other runners, and none of them were friendly at all.

This is what the runners looked like. Maybe they were hungover.

I have to admit, when I see other runners, I run a little faster. I try to look a little more like Sydney Bristow running on Alias. It's totally an ego thing, but that isn't always bad- it can help push you a little more.

Anyway, I'm trying not to feel too badly about my run. I think I'm going to make it a goal to run the whole 4 miles by the end of the month. Once a week (probably Saturday, my normal "long" run day)(yes, "long" is back in quotes), I'll run a little longer and by the last Saturday of the month (which is January 28), I'll run the 4 miles without a break and see how I do. Hopefully I'll beat today's 40:32 time.

As for the rest of my workouts, I'll be starting my Pump Hybrid on Tuesday. This first week will be a little different, because I'm traveling on Monday.

Monday: Rest
Tuesday: Pump/Run 2
Wednesday: P90X2 Core/Heavy Legs at gym
Thursday: Pump/Run 2-3
Friday: P90X Balance and Power
Saturday: "Long" run (3- 3.25 miles)
Sunday: Rest.

I'll get the other workouts for the month scheduled once I get home.

As I mentioned before, Monday I start working with Amy from Metabolic Mayhem Training for my nutrition. Did I mention I'm excited?

I look like this right now.

So, do you have a plan?

Things I accomplished in 2011.. and look out 2012!

2011-12-31T18:25:00.001-06:00

What good are all those resolutions and goals if you don't look back and see if you accomplished anything?

1. Ran 3 Half Marathons: Country Music Half Marathon, Nashville Women's Half Marathon, and the Murfreesboro Middle Half.

2. Parented and stuff.

3. Became a Beachbody Diamond Coach (A huge milestone)

4. Made some progress on the debt snowball.

5. ~~Stalked~~ I mean hung out with my BFF Tony Horton and Shaun T.

Still milking this. 6 months later.

6. Married Prince William. No, wait, that wasn't me.

"Um, yeah. That was me." (Because you know that's how Kate Middleton talks.)

So, what are some things I'll be doing in 2012?

1. Nutrition.
Well, I'm starting the first two months off working with Amy from Metabolic Mayhem Training. She'll be designing my nutrition plan. I HIGHLY recommend working with Amy if you need help with meal planning and accountability (although, I believe she's so awesome, she has a wait list. It's so totally worth it). She's going to help me fine tune my diet to get the best results possible (including Shakeology, of course).

2. Fitness.
I'm going to focus on getting faster at shorter distances rather than running long distance. I'll also be lifting more (remember my super cool P90X2/Les Mills Pump/Running hybrid I'll be doing). Weights really ARE the key, and I'll be writing more about that too.

3. Beachbody
I'm going to advance my Beachbody Business. It's come such a long way in 2011, that I have some very specific goals for 2012 I know I can reach. (Plus I plan on having multiple pictures of myself taken with Tony Horton again.)

4. Get certified to teach group exercise and start teaching again.
I'm going to start with my favorite format to teach, Turbokick, and then get my primary again. I'm probably just going to start a class somewhere though and just hope someone shows up. I miss it so much, I'm willing to teach a class of ONE!

5. Pay cash for a car.
Since I hate debt and refuse to make payments, I have been without a car of my own for several years. This is the year. I'm getting a car of my own.

What are your goals this year? Did you reach some good ones in 2011?

My best wishes to you for a safe and enjoyable New Year's celebration, and a wonderful 2012. Let's bring it this year!

Where will YOU be in 30 days?

2011-12-30T09:00:00.001-06:00

I want you to think for a second. Think about if you dedicated yourself to something with all your heart, for just 30 days. How much progress would you make?

30 days is not that long. It's one month. I think most of us can focus for 30 days. It's not as long as 90 days. And it's more than 21 days, which is how long it takes to build a habit.

Now, think back to 30 days ago. Is there something bothering you that was also bothering you 30 days ago? Has it changed? Think of the past 30 days: If you gave this problem intense focus every day for 30 days, would it have gotten better?

Source

Since I love to talk about fitness and health, I want to focus on that. How healthy are you? Do you feel vibrant? Or, do you have aches and pains when you wake up in the morning? Do you like the way you look when you see yourself in the mirror? Do you like the way you feel in your clothes?

Now, think ahead to 30 days from now. You could do something to improve this situation. It just takes focus. Knowledge. And, maybe a little support.

We have Beachbody Challenge groups forming for 30 day challenges, and that covers everything: Fitness + Nutrition + Accountability. But, if that's not for you, I encourage you to take steps on your own. Plan your meals and your workouts. Find someone to support you. Give it everything you've got for 30 days. And see how far you can go.

And don't forget to take a before picture. We'll post your before and after and show others what you really CAN accomplish in 30 days!

Setting your New Year's Resolutions!

2011-12-29T09:54:00.000-06:00

This is the time of year when we're all getting ready to start over. We're setting goals for 2012, and we're excited. We're motivated.

But have you ever gotten to December and wondered, "What were those resolutions I set in January again?"

I have a suggestion as we start the New Year. I know it is tempting to say, "I'm going to do X this year. I'm going to reach X goal this year."

Why don't we try 1 month? 30 days?

And, why don't we focus on action steps?

For example:

"I want to lose 10 pounds."

This is a great goal, but it's not 100% in your control. You know what is in your control though? The action steps:

- I am going to stay within my calorie range every day for 30 days.
- I am going to workout 6 days a week this month.

These are my goals.

So, I'm developing a hybrid workout schedule for the month (I'll post it later) that includes P90X2, Pump, and Running.

PLUS

PLUS

I really don't smile like this every time I run..

I'm planning each week's meals in advance.

I'm focusing on what I can control, and the result will happen.

Can I challenge you to do the same?

(Come over to Sarah Fitness and post your action steps for January for extra accountability. And don't forget about the Challenge Groups forming now)

Let's kick off the year with a strong 30 days. Who's with me?

Hang in there!

2011-12-22T09:07:00.000-06:00

I'm writing this letter to myself, as well as anyone else who can benefit:

Hang in there!

The holidays are upon us. For me, personally, it feels like life is in chaos.

We drove all day yesterday, and packed snacks, and still managed to not make the best food choices.

After being in the car all day, my body was sore... but I apparently forgot my foam roller.

My goal is to find time to run later this afternoon. Then to get back on track with P90X2 as much as I can.

But, I have to remember, I'm seeing family and friends I haven't seen for a year, and being with them is the most important. I can workout on schedule when I get home (especially since Les Mills' Pump will be waiting for me...)

So, hang in there, everyone. If you're super focused on a physical goal, stay super focused. If you're super focused on enjoying time with your family, stay super focused. Just remember your goals, and stay focused. Don't be sad or feel bad about yourself if you do something. Just do the best you can.

However, come January 2, look out :-) Back to 100% compliance AND awesomeness!

2012 Beachbody Challenge Groups!

2011-12-20T10:03:00.000-06:00

A lot of folks make New Year's Resolutions. They decide to lose weight, once and for all. The join Weight Watchers, maybe Jenny Craig or Nutrisystem, and join a gym.

All of these things cost money.

That's cool. Anything that's worthwhile is going to cost something. In fact, I find that I'm more likely to commit to something and stick with it if I've PAID for it.

But, I want you to think ahead. What is February going to look like?

I know many people find success with all of these things. But I want you to take a moment and consider a different option...

Beachbody offers COMPLETE programs, with a schedule, nutrition plan, and support. But I'm going even further than that and starting a Challenge Group.

The 2012 Challenge Group:

- Begins January 2.
- Is limited to 5 people.
- Lasts for 30 days (it takes 21 days to make a habit).
- Will have daily support, check-ins and accountability via an exclusive Facebook group.

Here are the requirements:
1. Drink Shakeology Daily.
2. Workout daily (either with a Beachbody workout program, or the program of your choice. I'll even help you develop one if you like).
3. Check in daily.

Beachbody has even made it easier, by combining some of their programs with Shakeology AND a free month of membership in the Team Beachbody Club:

Just to compare:

1. One month of weight watchers online: Sign up fee of $29.95 plus $18.95 per month: $48.90 for the first month (does not include fitness program)
2. One month of gym membership: Varies, usually a sign up fee ($49.99) and a monthly fee of $39.99. That's $90 for the first month. (Source of sample)
3. One month of Jenny Craig: A small fee (Usually about $20 per month), plus the cost of meals, which can run you $500 - $600 per month. That doesn't include a fitness program. (Here's a review of their program).

With the Beachbody Challenge packs, you get the Workout Program (which you can use more than one month...), one month of Shakeology, and one month of the Team Beachbody Club membership (which includes personalized meal plans).

You decide. But if you'd like to be in my Challenge Group that starts on January 2, let me know! And order soon, because you want to have everything ready to get started on that day!

Initial thoughts on P90X2: Continued...

2011-12-18T15:36:00.002-06:00

As my first week of P90X2 comes to a close, I want to share my thoughts.

Specific Workouts:

- Core is weird. It's hard, and then at the end I don't feel like I did a lot. I will continue to run on the days I do this, or else I'll feel like I took it easy.

- Plyocide sounded real scary, but in reality, wasn't at all. The warm up was long, then the workout was short, then a lot of really long stretching. Now, I love stretching, but not as part of a workout whose title ends with "cide". Since I feel like I'm not getting enough leg work (and I miss the heavy leg work), I think I will sub that for this workout.

- Recovery and Mobility: I love this. I could see myself doing it all the time. I am having a love affair with my foam roller.

- Total Body. Holy moly. There were moves in this I just couldn't even do. "Crunchy lever pullup"- You do a pullup, bring your knees into your chest, and then rock back and forth. It looks really cool and fun, but I had to just work on my (assisted) pullups. Also "Mule Kick Burpee". I'm just going to leave it at that. Good lord. And a bunch of crazy things in Warrior 3. Really? Now, I'm not saying I didn't like this workout. I think it will be great

- Yoga: I love how it's NOT 90 minutes long. It's just about 66 minutes, but honestly, I have to admit: I always skip the ab section. And frog. So that cuts it down a little. I get to practice crow/crane (I learned it as crow or bakasana- he calls it crane. Whatever. That's what it is.)

- Balance and Power: OMG. This was particularly hard. I could barely do most of the stability ball moves. There is a modifier for people who don't have a ball... um, but even though I have one, I followed him most of the time anyway. Also, Tony's sister is in this workout. The banter is funny. He sings a little during the stretch and mentions that people will make fun of him on Youtube. Like here.

General

- This first phase is weird to me after the heavy lifting I was doing. I am dying to go to the gym and throw around some HEAVY weights. That almost seems easier than some of this intricate core work. But I know I need it. I *really* need it. The core is the most important, and with a strong core, I know I'll do better at everything else. So I'm going to hang in there (but I still will probably do some barbell FULL squats and things in place of Plyocide.)

- Dang there is a Warrior III in just about every workout.
Warrior III Row/Press, Warrior III Preacher Curl... let's just say if you don't like Warrior III, or are bad at it, it will be hard (at least at first). Personally I'm looking forward to getting better.

- I've seen negative and positive reviews. I understand some of the negatives- warmups are too long (too much foam rolling, some people say), not enough leg work (that was me that sad that one), but I think, at least for me, they can be worked around. (They are all well-chaptered, so you can easily skip, like I do with FROG.)

I would love to hear your thoughts as well if you've started already. I am curious how other people are doing with it.

Oh, and I'm running 3 times a week. Because I need it. It's not in the program. But I'm doing it anyway (don't tell Tony).

Les Mills BodyPump is Teaming Up with Beachbody

2011-12-14T09:33:00.000-06:00

How many of you have taken a BodyPump class at the gym?

Recently, Beachbody announced that they will be offering a home version of this workout. The details have JUST been released...

All of these prices are Introductory! They don't know yet if they'll be able to offer it at this price for long...

Regular: $165.85
Club: $149.27
Coach: 124.39

And that's just the BASE kit! The Deluxe kit comes with an extra set of weights, a step (pro grade), and extra DVDs!

Are you excited?

December 22nd this goes LIVE! Not a customer yet? Sign up for a FREE account with me as your coach. When you buy from a coach (either kit) you get an extra Core DVD for FREE!

Want to learn more about Les Mills PUMP? Keep watching for future posts on exactly how it works!

In the meantime, check out this video. It will get you excited! (or "PUMPED"!)(Sorry, I had to...)

I like you.

2011-12-13T09:05:00.000-06:00

I really do. Do you like me?

Have you liked Sarah Fitness yet?

So far, 629 people do.

When that number gets up to 700, I'll do a random drawing for a prize. What's the prize?

This right here:

That's right! One lucky "Liker" will get a Rockin' Body set, so you can dance with my good buddy Shaun T. Remember when I met Shaun T.?

Yep. I'm going to keep bringing this up FOREVER.

So, tell your friends. As soon as we hit 700, I'll choose randomly from all 700 folks :-)

Just in case you need it again, go HERE. Click "Like".

Initial thoughts on P90X2

2011-12-12T13:18:00.001-06:00

Well, I decided to go ahead and start P90X2 TODAY!!! Y'all had to know I wouldn't be able to wait, right?

Happiness in a box.

I've been doing a little reading, planning and previewing of the program, and wanted to share some of my initial thoughts. Keep in mind, I have only done 3 workouts: Recovery + Mobility, Core, and Yoga.

The three phases of the program are Foundation, Strength and Performance. Each phase is designed to be used 3 to 6 weeks.

There is an optional Recovery week which consists of the Recovery + Mobility and Yoga alternating. There is no *scheduled* recovery week in the program- it's just there for you to do whenever you need it. I like this. I'm not always ready to recover when I'm supposed to be ready...

I've previewed the workouts used in Phase 1, since that's what I'll be doing. I wanted to be ready since I'll be traveling during part of it, and make sure I had all the equipment I would need. (One member in each workout shows the "hotel room" variation, where you don't use fancy equipment... just bands and a towel.)

Phase 1 is called the Foundation because it works on strengthening the core. The workouts are very "Functional" fitness oriented. (Do they still use that buzzword? It was big when I was teaching). I'm excited about this because I've been having some back pain, which I think is due to tight hip flexors, and possibly not having a strong enough core (I'm starting to think- 15 months after childbirth- that I may have had some mild diastasis recti. I can still feel a little space in between.. ).

I did Day 1's workout, X2 Core, Monday morning, and it was a challenge. There were a lot of moves I couldn't do. I *still* can't do Dreya rolls (how do you get back up without using your hands?), and several of the plank based moves had to be just "planks". But, I know I have a lot of room to grow, and that's good.

Also, I'm planning on adding 3 days of running to this plan. I don't think it will be too much. I am only running 2-3 miles at a time, which is just perfect for me.....

So let's keep BRINGING IT.

Have a great Monday, folks!

(P.S. Even though it's too late to get it by Christmas, you can still order P90X2 if you're interested. Go HERE to order!)

Things that happened this week...

2011-12-11T19:13:00.001-06:00

This week was one of my busiest weeks of the year. In addition to my awesome librarian-ing, and my Beachbody Coaching, I've also been known to be a piano accompanist. I get a chance every semester to use those accompanying skills (and therefore two of my three degrees) when I accompany music students in their "juries". Juries are end of semester performance exams. They sound scary, and I guess they were scary to me back in the early 90s, but now they're just a fun chance for me to remember I'm a musician and make some money.

This is what I look like sitting at a piano.

But, doing this required working a lot of time outside my regular job. Monday I was at school for 13 hours. I missed a few lunchtime workouts because I worked through them to catch up on work.

So I had to accept this one not going to be one of my most successful fitness weeks ever.

I wanted to review, so I can go into next week in a "more likely to succeed" frame of mind.

Things that happened this week:

1. I ran 3 times. (2 miles, 2 miles, 3 miles). That was consistent and I am happy with it.
2. My 2 toenails FINALLY fell off (they've been threatening to since the last half marathon in October).
3. I lifted weights twice at the gym.
4. P90X2 arrived.

And there was great rejoicing..

5. I didn't eat so great. I gave into fancy Starbucks Holiday cup drinks a few times.
6. I watched my son sit in Santa's lap and cried a little.

7. I drank Shakeology every day (no matter how badly I ate, I at least knew I was doing something right).(Yeah, I sell it, but that doesn't make it any less awesome.
8. My skin cleared up (which I think is due to number 7).
9. I slept very little (due to a grumpy, teething little girl, and probably a little stress).

My point to all of this is that there are times when you choose your goals. My fitness/weight loss/bodysculpting goals took a back seat this week to my other goals. I got lax. But I accept the consequences, and I know that if I want to GET better, I have to DO better.

This coming week will be amazing. I know it.

Hope you have a great week planned!

High Five I Love Coffee Friday!

2011-12-09T12:42:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite things about winter is the Starbucks Holiday cup. So I gave in and got a holiday beverage this morning:

My hands were too busy to high five. Sorry.

My daughter is either teething, or sick (or both, poor thing), which is making her very demanding, especially during the times most people sleep. Hence the coffee.

My P90X2 arrived this week. I haven't had a chance to try much of it yet, but I did do "X2 Recovery and Mobility" this morning. It has a 20 minute long foam roller sequence. I went to heaven.

However, after 3 sun salutations at the beginning of the workout, Tony says, "Just skip coffee and do three of those in the morning." Tony, not funny. Not funny at all.

He's also his typical self, and I'm glad to have a whole new set of Tony-isms to memorize and repeat. "If you don't have a bar, get a broom stick. If you don't have a broom stick in your house, that's weird." (I'm paraphrasing.)

Speaking of P90X-ish things:

I love it.

I really don't have a coherent train of thought to share with you today, so I'll just sum up some things:

1. Starting a BB challenge group January 2. This will be a small group (limited) of highly focused folks who really want to see a difference. This will be 30 days. Want to know more? Email me at uberlibrarian (at ) gmail (dot) com, and we'll see if you qualify.

2. I've become completely obsessed with the Ryan Gosling "Hey girl" meme, to the point that friends and I (you know who you are) have been doing some variations (some with David Boreanaz). Observe some of the original:

Here's some from the librarian version:

And here are some of the ones we've come up with:

Oh Jenn.

And some DB...

From my girl Missy.

Hey girl.
Have a great weekend....

One More Day to Pre-Order P90X2

2011-12-07T13:21:00.000-06:00

So, as P90X2 makes it's way SLOWLY to my house... (should arrive today or tomorrow), I wanted to let you know (just in case you want to try it) that today is the very last day to pre-order and get free shipping, and guaranteed Christmas delivery.

My BFF Tony Horton explains the differences between the two programs in this video:

You can order HERE, and let me know if you'd like to join our challenge group starting January 2!

(Visit Sarah Fitness for more info)

Choices

2011-12-07T09:15:00.000-06:00

This is a girl with whom I'd like to talk about her choices. (Source)

"You're so lucky."
"I wish I was as thin as you."
"I wish I had your discipline."

I hear these things a lot. The bottom line is that I make choices. Sometimes I make good choices. Sometimes I make choices that are NOT so good. But I make choices, and I get the consequences. That's how that works.

I know that if I choose to go over my calories, or to eat some food that is off plan, I will reduce my results. If I'm aiming for weight loss, I may not achieve it. If I eat something gross, I'll feel gross. Choices have consequences.

So, I'm writing this not just to talk to those people who think I'm just "lucky". I'm writing to myself a little as well.

Don't forget the choices you make today will affect where you are tomorrow.

What choices are you making?

On Being One of the "Cool Kids"...

2011-12-06T09:28:00.000-06:00

If that's not a cool kid, I don't know what is...

My workouts are a little less this week as I'm super busy. Here's what I have *planned*:

Sunday: Total Body Workout #1
Monday: Run 2 miles, Ab Ripper X
Tuesday: Total Body Workout #2
Wednesday: Run 2 miles, Ab Ripper X
Thursday: Total Body Workout #3
Friday: Fun Cardio at home
Saturday: Run 3 miles, Ab Ripper X

Anyway, I haven't been at the gym to lift for a few weeks. I miss it, but it's just been really busy (as you can probably tell by how little I've been blogging lately.)

Today I had planned to run 2 miles outside, but it's raining ridiculously. Plus, the construction and potholes on this campus right now mean very deep puddles. I slipped and fell once running in ice, and water is just warmer ice, and it scares me (keep in mind I also got bit by a dog and run over by my own car. I don't think this fear is entirely irrational).

So, I ran inside on the track. I was kind of amazed by my time:

Seriously?

I absolutely can't believe I broke a 9:00 mile. I'm very excited. Now, I'll admit, I was really pushing it, and I don't think I could have gone any longer. If I were to run longer than 2 miles, my pace would have to go down. But for today, this was great.

I finished up my workout with Ab Ripper X, using the P90X app. I had never done it with my music playing before... turns out Tony Horton talks OVER your music. It was so cool.

After my workout I went to the locker room to shower (You're welcome, co-workers) and I heard someone say, "Where have you been?" I turned and saw a girl I've seen around the gym a lot. But what surprised me, I guess, was that she (and the other regulars at the gym) had noticed I haven't been around. Wow. She also asked me to join the Weightlifting Club. How cool is that?

So, on Monday, I felt kind of like one of the cool kids. I made a friend. I ran fast. I worked hard. I made progress. It was a great day.

How was your Monday?

(P.S. P90X2 is coming to my house on Thursday. Jealous? You can still pre-order it HERE and get free shipping.... But you have to do it SOON! Like TODAY!)

Great Moments in Goal Achievement

2011-12-05T10:07:00.000-06:00

As long as I've been running (or at least as long as I cared anything about time) I've wanted to complete a 5K in less than 30 minutes. My fastest 5K time was 32:00-something, so I had a little ways to go.

Sometimes when I run, people mistake me for Homer Simpson

But this weekend, I had a miracle happen.

My runs lately have been around 2 miles. I've been focusing on speed, on *not* taking walk breaks, and just making it through without cursing running. I have to admit it's been a lot more rewarding lately than it was towards the end of "Half Marathon Season 2011", when I wanted to punch running in the face most days.

On Saturday, I didn't get to do my run in the morning, so I had to wait until my husband could watch the kids. I decided to try for 3 miles, since I've been doing 2 or 2.25 lately. I wanted to push myself a little.

I headed out. The weather was perfect. I had my music on. I felt like I was going a little faster than comfortable, but I kept telling myself, "Only 300 more seconds" (which is 5 minutes. This is a technique I use often. Counting helps me pass the time and also helps me breathe, which I think helps prevent sidestitches. Well, most of the time).

I have my Nike+ set to tell me every quarter mile what my pace is. It was getting ridiculously fast. I was impressed. So much that when I hit 2.5 miles I decided to go for the full 5K.

28:21. Holy Schmoly. I ran 3.1 miles in less than 30:00 alright.

And now that I have reached this goal, I feel empowered. I mean, it wasn't easy. It wasn't a piece of cake. It was challenging and I did it.

So, I'm wondering what other goals I can reach if I set my mind to it?

Oh, and the best part: I got rid of the Tracy Morgan Curse. Dirk Nowitzki congratulated me at the end of my run.

Nice, Sarah. (source)

To X(2) or not to X(2)? At least in December...

2011-11-28T10:15:00.000-06:00

The end of semester madness is approaching, and then holiday madness will follow... or will occur simultaneously. I'm going into December with a plan... sort of...

No, not *that* kind of Madness. (Source)

Work will be crazy the next few weeks, and I may not be able to consistently get away during my lunch hour to go to the gym. So, I'm planning workouts I can do in the morning. Since it's dark in the morning when I workout, this means I can't run (I'll be trying to fit in short runs later in the day). But, the main focus of my program will be strength training.

Erin Stern makes me want to eat right and lift more.

On another note, I think I can honestly say that I have been waiting for the sequel to P90X since early 2007- that's around the time I finished my first round (and got pregnant, which may or may not have been related...). I had everything Tony said memorized, and I've come back to P90X through the years when I needed something effective. Well, P90X2 is shipping THIS WEEK. This may change my plans.

Remember. Tony Horton is my BFF.

I had planned to start P90X2 with a bunch of other people after New Year's. It's always a great time to start a new program, and I wanted to have that to look forward to after the Holidays died down. But it's coming THIS WEEK. I have a history of not being able to wait for things...

You better believe I found out the MOMENT it was possible....

So I recently REfound this book (and many others):

Let me explain how exciting this is. When I was pregnant with my now 15 month old daughter, we moved twice. That was a special kind of challenge. But, since the first move, there have been several books that I couldn't find.... including this one. I have missed this book, and even considered buying it again I wanted to use it so badly.

This weekend, my husband found a box with ALL the missing books. Hooray!

So I decided to pick up with the program outlined in the book, but then I remembered about P90X2. I then remembered my inability to wait, especially once a brand new workout system I've waited for FOR YEARS is in my little hands...

So I'm debating.

In the meantime, I asked my husband to get me some peanut butter yesterday, and he brought me this:

It actually turned into kind of a fun family project. We all shelled the peanuts, and then I blended them in the Cuisinart. I added a tiny bit of olive oil (because we didn't have peanut oil). It was quite good. It didn't make much, but I was proud. I felt like quite the homemaker.

There will be more on my P90X2 Inner Debate, but for now, just remember the peanuts. Oh, and have a great Monday!

High Five Post Thanksgiving Holiday Friday!

2011-11-25T08:11:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday! Here's your high five!

This picture is from a different day. I am *not* at work right now.

How'd you do?

I ran 4 miles, ate a lot (but no food coma) and had a great time. I didn't clean a darn thing.

So, right now, I'm going to list 5 things I'm committing to during the month of December....

1. No food comas.
2. Working out 5 times a week.
3. Do at least one thing to get me closer to my big goal (which is a secret) every day.
4. Spending at least 10 minutes EVERY DAY one-on-one time with each kid AND my husband. EVERY DAY.
5. Budget with my husband (we are starting the Dave Ramsey plan. This is the month. Our first budget.)

So, do you have big goals for the end of the year? Are you finishing strong? Or just trying to make it through? Post them here!

Have a happy weekend!

Eating.

2011-11-23T17:24:00.000-06:00

I'm planning on doing some eating tomorrow. I have been dieting for a while, and I admit to not always being *completely* strict and "on-plan" with my diet, but I still have been doing pretty well. I have been consistently losing at least a little bit every two weeks (which is when I weigh).

So, tomorrow, I'm going to eat some stuff.

Isn't that pretty? That's not the kind of food I'm talking about, though. (Source)

Every now and then, I have to post this post...

2011-11-22T09:02:00.000-06:00

This is the "Hey, Remember me?" post.

This has been me with the blogging lately. (source)

Yes, I have been away.

I ran out of things to talk about for a little while. But don't worry, I thought of some more things.

More later. But for now, enjoy some David Boreanaz.

"I've missed you, Sarah." (source)

"When you don't blog, I feel wet and cold." (Source)

"I'm so bored without you." (Source)

Wait, what? (source)

Have to= Get to

2011-11-08T15:09:00.000-06:00

This is not really related. It's just a picture I took of a really pretty tree.

I tried a little experiment the past few days. Every time I start to say, "I have to..." I replace it with "I get to." It's amazing how my attitude has changed. For example:

"I have to run today."
"I get to run today."

Here's another one:

"I have to go to work."
"I get to go to work."

You see where I'm going with this? It's amazing.

"I have to hang out with my kids tonight."
"I get to hang out with my kids tonight."

I plan on continuing this indefinitely. It really works.

What are some ways you can replace "have to" with "get to"?

Need Motivation? Get it RIGHT HERE!

2011-11-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

I have the great fortune of being good friends with Missy Reid. Missy is an NPC Figure Competitor, and one of the coolest people around. She is competing in the Natural Mid-States Muscle Classic XXIV in Rockford, Illinois *this weekend*!

Here's the progress Missy made between shows in one year.

SF: When did you start working out? What inspired you?

MR: I suppose you could say Ive been 'working out' most of my life. I started in my teen years with home videos such as Windsor Pilates and Slim in 6. But I never really stuck to anything as I didnt realize I couldnt out train a bad diet. I finally got serious and started lifting weights around February 2009. I dont think there was any one particular thing that inspired me other than reaching a breaking point of being tired with being unhappy with my body and being uncomfortable in my own skin.

Here's Missy as a child

2009- Before weight training

For contrasts, here's a pic of Missy from about a week ago..

SF: Why did you decide to compete?
MR: I had decided that in order to be successful in my weight loss journey, that I needed to have a goal that required a lot of an investment. Something that I just couldnt back out of.

SF: What’s your favorite workout move?
MR: I love barbell bicep curls and rope pushdown tricep extension. They both make my arms look pretty badass, and when you look good, you feel good. And when you feel good, you get a heck of a great workout!

SF: How do you stay on track?

MR: Truth be told, unless I have a very specific goal to reach, I dont *always* stay on track. Im human. I stumble and fall just like everybody else. But what helps me is keeping my goals in mind, and reaching out to like minded people with similar goals. The power of support and encouragement can not be underestimated.

SF: What advice do you have for someone who is trying to get in shape?
MR: Just do it. Eat right & exercise. Dont over think it. Dont complicate it. When people ask me, "Whats your secret?" I love to cup my hand by my mouth, lean over, and wisper, "You really wanna know? ...I. Stick. With. It." As with reaching any goal, consistancy is KEY. So dont expect it to happen over night.

SF: What have you learned about competing that surprised you?
MR: How addicting it is! And that its actually not really very competative. I mean, it IS a competition and all, so I had thought it was going to be a bunch of cut throat, die hard, hardcore, sassy b*tches ready to pull eachothers hair out. But the reality of it is that it is quite the opposite. There is such a strong brother hood and sister hood in the fitness industry. So many strong bonds are made from people who closely relate to one another about a passion they share.

SF: What is your favorite part of competing?

MR: Trick question! Really, there is SO much that goes into a show and so many aspects about the sport that I love. But if I had to pick a favorite, it would be a close call between being on that stage, and the journey it takes to get there. Its only for mere moments, but being on stage in front of HUNDREDS of people, half neked (an asprin bottle has more cotton than those figure suits!), under hot bright lights, asking to be judged...it is an unexplainable high and quite an adrenaline rush. I absolutely love it. I love putting on a show and entertaining a crowd. And the journey to get there *heavenly sigh* it is far beyond just a physical one. You go through an internal transformation. Mentally and emotionally you dig deep and really become in tune with yourself. I emerge a different (better) person after every show.

SF: What are your plans for after the show this weekend?

MR: For now, I plan on continuing to diet for at least another 2 weeks. Ive entered a transformation challege and the grand prize is 7 nights in Jamaica. I REALLY want that! (who doesnt?!) Then, my focus will be on maintaining the lifestyle and finding balance. It's something that I have yet to master and I know will require a lot of effort.

Missy, looking great!

Thanks so much for the interview, Missy! I hope you guys were all as inspired by what she has accomplished as I have been!

Do me a favor and comment below if you'd like to send her some good vibes for this weekend!

High Five Hallelujah It's Fitness Friday!

2011-11-04T09:03:00.000-05:00

Did I get enough words in that title?

Here's your high five!

Hop on over to Fitness Friday today to meet other folks who *love* fitness....

5 things that are awesome:
1. I actually enjoyed a run yesterday. Shocking. It was raining earlier in the day, and I was afraid my plans for an outdoor run were thwarted... but by the time it was lunchtime running time, the rain had stopped and it was *perfect* running weather. I ran 2 miles with no walk breaks, and didn't feel like I would die. In fact, like I said, I enjoyed it. I guess this is why I keep running, for runs like this. Yay!

2. We get an extra hour this weekend. Oh hallelujah. I know it's just an hour, but I need it. I'm excited. I'm ready for Fall and Winter. Remind me I said that in January.

3. "Salted caramel" Cream of Wheat. My glorious breakfast this morning. I am obsessed with the whole "salted caramel" thing, but since I don't have room in my calories or budget for Starbucks, I don't partake much. So, I mixed a little sugar free Torani syrup in with my Cream of Wheat this morning, and some salt, and it was SO GOOD. I'm still reeling from the awesome.

4. Did I mention it's Friday? I am so ready for the weekend, even though with two small children, the weekends are often as busy as the week. I have a ton of housework to do, plus the parenting... but I just feel like I need to catch up.

5. David Boreanaz. I'm just thankful he exists.

I love you, too Sarah. In your mind.

Sticky

2011-11-03T18:11:00.000-05:00

If today had a word, that word would be "Sticky". From the moment I woke up, it seemed everything I touched was yucky, slimy, oily or otherwise sticky.

I decided to do my weight workout at home today. Rather than do band lat pulldowns, I like to practice my pullups. Now, I don't do unassisted pullups yet. Right now, I do negatives. So I hop up and hold myself up at the top as long as I can, then lower as slowly as I can. These are surprisingly effective... and if I did them more than once a week, I might make some progress.

Anyway, I got my pullup bar out of the workout supply closet (which also happens to be the air conditioner closet)...

This is my pull up bar, when not in use or in the AC Closet.

There was some kind of *OIL* all over it. Gross. I don't know what it was, and you'd think I would have checked the air conditioner to see if it was leaking, but I didn't. I was just so focused on my workout. But, even with gloves, that oiliness was challenging... and a little slippery...

After my workout, I packed up my lunch. I have a million baby food jars that, for some reason, we washed and saved. I've found they are just about the right size for one scoop of protein powder:

Yum. Protein powder.

When I unpacked my lunch, however, the protein powder jars were STICKY, like they had spilled and mixed with something else. Except I couldn't tell what was leaking. Gross.

Other fun sticky episodes occurred throughout the day:

I packed my daughter's bottles up, and as soon as I took the lid off, sticky milk came flooding out on my pants. Awesome.

Something was sticky at the gym. That's all I'm going to say about that.

I remember as a teenager, I used to babysit a lot. I noticed that all the houses where I babysat (with small children) were always "sticky". I guess that is just part of it. I guess for the next few years, at least, I should get used to "sticky". Although, I'm not really sure what's up with the air conditioner...

All About The Beachbody Challenge Packs!

2011-11-02T11:08:00.003-05:00

As you may know, I am a proud Beachbody Coach. Remember when I met my BFF Tony Horton?

Here is just ONE of the many pictures I ~~stalked~~.. I mean took with Tony.

Anyway, Beachbody now has new Challenge Packs available!

FITNESS + NUTRITION + SUPPORT = SUCCESS

Carl Daikeler (CEO of Beachbody, and my other BFF) explains it really well here:

GETTING STARTED IS EASY:
~Choose one group:Workout Program along with Shakeology
~Commit to the full program!!
***Purchase your Challenge Pack HERE***
-Click on BEACHBODY CHALLENGE on right side of page-
fill out information and that's it...you're in!!
If you have any questions, email me at uberlibrarian (at) gmail (dot) com.

I will get your phone number, email, and start a Facebook group for us. We will all connect and keep each other going. We will check in every day. I will be *in your face*.

Me being in your face may look something like this.

High Five it's.... Monday? Wha?

2011-10-31T10:04:00.000-05:00

Wait, did you say High Five Monday?

Yes, yes, I did...

I heart Monday!

I woke up this morning singing Rebecca Black's song "Friday". What irony, to have a song all about Friday in your head on Monday, which is pretty much the opposite. But I decided I can be excited about Monday too!

So, I'm having a "High Five Monday" today, and I'm setting my goals for the week. By the end of the day Friday, I will have:

1. Complete 4 strength training workouts: 2 upper and 2 lower

2. Run 2 times (1-2 miles each. Still taking it easy).

3. Stayed 100% compliant (not complaint) with my diet.

Do you have any goals for this week?

High Five! Have a great week!

High Five Time to Get Positive Again Friday!

2011-10-28T09:14:00.000-05:00

It's Friday! High five!

My hand is huge.

Today, I started out in a TERRIBLE mood! But, since I believe we can *decide* what mood to be in (and I preach it), I decided to do my best to turn it around.

This morning I had planned to do some yoga. My back has been bothering me and I'm pretty sure it's because of some tight hip flexors.

However, my little princess had a different idea. She started fussing at around 5 (alarm was set to go off at 5:15). I snuggled with her, but every time I tried to escape, she fussed some more. So I laid there with her, not able to go back to sleep, until 6, when I just decided we should both get up. I was not happy about this.

Then I get to the kitchen and it's a MESS. This may be weird, but I can't *stand* a messy kitchen in the morning. It puts me in a bad mood. So there's strike 2.

Then I found out a little bit of disappointing information. Also, the Rangers didn't win last night. All these disappointments were starting to get to me.

Also, I think my hormones are going a little crazy.. doing that girl thing they do...

So, I'm on track here for a grumpy mood and a yucky day.

I stopped and realized, I need to "check myself before I wreck myself."

Source

I'm happy to say I made a successful attitude shift. Let me tell you how I did it.

1. Embrace the suck.
I took a few moments to fully embrace the suck. I cried in the shower. I had a pity party. "Why me?" "This is so unfair!!!"

The key, however, is that I limited it. Once I got out of the shower, the pity party was over.

2. Count your blessings.
I moved on to the next step. I counted my blessings. God (or "Universe", if that's who you prefer. I'm not getting into a theological discussion here..) has been quite good about helping me with this lately. If I'm thinking, "My kids are driving me crazy!", my attention is brought to someone who's kids are sick or, heaven forbid, have passed. Suddenly having two wonderful healthy (crazy) kids is not as bad. Or if I'm grumbling about having to walk across campus, someone passes me who's limping and obviously having a much harder time than me. If you're open to it, these things are everywhere. They are humbling and help get your mind right pretty quickly.

3. Laugh about something.
I have a few things that I pull out when I'm grumpy that just make me laugh. A funny story, a funny tv show, anything... Just laugh a little... and *let* yourself.

I think most people take themselves too seriously. I really believe you can always find something amusing. Try looking at yourself. I think I'm hilarious. Even on bad mornings, I can find something funny in the situation.

Whatever you have to do to get a big, sincere, laugh- well, do it. You will immediately relax (trust me).

Keep in mind, there will be days you may have to do this more than once. Some days *are* overwhelming. But, I promise, it's worth it. Choosing a positive attitude really is much more fun!

So, I hope you have a great weekend, and I'll leave you with a question, because I love hearing from you:

How do you shake yourself out of a funk? Share your tips!

My day at the gym...

2011-10-27T17:31:00.000-05:00

Today I went to the gym. I had all kinds of epiphanies and emotions, so I thought I would share them with you:

1. Keep lifting weights, and you can lift heavier weights. Wait, does that make sense? I want to share with you how it used to be: I limited myself. When I first started lifting weights, I used "The Firm". They would tell you to pick up a light, medium or heavy weight. Sometimes they would give you a range. (Example: "Time for triceps kickbacks. 3-5 pounds). So, I limited myself. 10 pounds was heavy.

Then, I got a set of 12 pounders. Wow. I was killing it then.

Eventually I got a set of 15s. Wow. Look out everyone! I stayed there for a while. I couldn't imagine going any heavier.... but I did.

I added a set of 20s and a set of 25s. That's where I stopped with my home weights.

Today, I did shoulder presses with 25s. Wow. I didn't think I could do that. I remember when I could barely get 10 pounds over my head.

Isn't it amazing to see such progress?

2. Sometimes you need a break.
After I did my upper body work, I had planned a 2 mile run. I went upstairs to the track and started running... and ran exactly 48 seconds before quitting.

I'm not training for a running event right now. All the running I do is kind of a "bonus" just so I don't forget how to do it. So I felt like it was okay to skip the run today. I ended up doing some extra stretching, which did me a world of good.

3. Diet is important.

This is not really a new epiphany. But it kind of goes with the item above. I used to do cardio workouts and longer runs than I probably should to make up for eating. "Uh oh, I need to burn 300 more calories today. I better run anyway". But, since I'm following my diet plan, I didn't need to do that. I was able to stop running and not feel bad about it. Yay!

4. I wish I could go back in time and slap some sense into my 17 year old self.

This is a little deeper than the others. While I was stretching, the song by Pink, "F'in perfect" came on. It kind of made me cry a little.

I think about how I wish I could just tell my teenage self (or my 20-30 year old self, in some cases) all of these things. I wasted so much time not feeling good enough.... and it just breaks my heart. It also breaks my heart that my kids may someday go through those feelings about themselves... and they are so amazing!

So, those were my epiphanies. Sorry to say none of them involved David Boreanaz. But I'll put a picture of him here anyway...

"Sarah, I went to the gym and got my shirt all sweaty. Because you're awesome. (Source)

Yay! Monday!

2011-10-24T09:28:00.000-05:00

Seriously. I'm kind of excited about this Monday. Here's why:

Seriously, though:

1. It's a new week!
2. Anything can happen!
3. I have coffee!
4. I feel great success coming!

One of the reasons I'm feeling successful IN ADVANCE include the fact that I prepped my meals for the next 3 days. I can't tell you how good it feels to know all my food is ready. I don't have to freak out and wonder what I'm going to eat.

I like to take pictures of my food...

Of course, Wednesday night I'll have to do it again. But that's okay...

Plus, I really believe that if you think it's a good week, it will be. It's not always easy to be in a good mood- believe me, I know!- but why not? It doesn't hurt anything to be happy. It doesn't help anything to be stressed. So, why not be happy, and then if things get better, you're still happy? If they don't, you're still happy!

Okay, that was my ray of sunshine for the morning.

What are you happy about this happy Monday?

High Five What Happened This Week Friday

2011-10-21T10:01:00.000-05:00

Happy High Five Friday, everyone!

You can even see my nails are painted. I'm high maintenance today..

Once again, time for my favorite Fitness Friday Blog Hop:

Hop on over. Jill's got a great post today about trying different things. I've never heard of pace tattoos before. Cool...

So, today I'm going to go over the Top 5 things that happened this week. You may have heard these before...

5. I ran my last half marathon for a while. Oh my. I know I already told you and told you about it.

4. I did my best to ignore bad news stories.
Apparently, lots of bad things happen every day. I won't list them here. I do my best to stay positive. But for some reason, this week seemed worse than most. Here is what I looked like most of the week:

Source

3. I was on Nightline.
Seriously. There was a story about Beachbody and P90X, and the footage was from when I was in Los Angeles this summer at Summit. You can see me getting my picture taken with my bff Tony Horton and about 3:30...
http://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/video/p90x-star-workout-14758432

2. I had my first Starbucks Salted Caramel Mocha.
It was my reward for finishing the half marathon that I didn't really want to finish. I went all out- full whole milk, whipped cream. The only thing missing was the salt- they were out. It was good, but I think I had built it up in my mind a little too much. I don't think anything could have been as good as I had imagined this drink would be.

And the number one thing that happened this week:
1. Friday arrived!
Yay! Have you ever had a week that just crept slowly by... like a very slow turtle? That was this week. Friday arrived and I was amazingly thrilled to see it.

Source OMG yes...

How about you? How was your week? Do you have fun plans for the weekend? Tell me, I'm nosy!!

Dude. I think that half marathon may have done me in. Dude.

2011-10-20T17:30:00.000-05:00

I knew my most recent half marathon wore me out. It was the first time I've actually cried during a race.

This was before the crying..

Monday I attempted to get right back on track and did my upper body lifting workout in the morning, then attempted a 2 mile run later in the day. That 2 mile run became a 1.5 sad mockery of a run where I realized I was having some sort of PTSD from the race.

Tuesday I decided to take a rest day. I went to work and everything, but I didn't do any workout at all.

Wednesday I was *still* super tired. I felt achy. I decided to use some sick time and stay home to rest. This was a tough decision. "I'll get behind on my workouts." "I can't just do *nothing*..." But I am pretty sure it was the right decision. I stayed in bed most of the day, even though the kids were home (My husband helped). And then I slept most of the night.

Today I was finally feeling better. I did my lunchtime lower body workout at the gym, and ran 1.5 miles (I didn't even pretend like I was going to run 2.)

But the main thing is, I think that last race pushed me over the edge.

There is a fine line, a balance, when you are pushing yourself hard. I like to push myself hard. I workout hard, I work hard at work, I do housework (or attempt to keep my house clean, which is like Sysiphus and his big rock), I do a *LOT*. So, when do you know you've done too much? How can you tell the difference between "I'm exhausted and MUST take a break" and "I'm just lazy and don't want to do anything."

How do *you* tell the difference? Or do you, like me, have a little trouble with that?

Well, just in case, here's this:

Special Guest Post: Physical Activity for Cancer Patients

2011-10-18T09:00:00.001-05:00

I am very honored to have my first guest post. Liz Davies has shared a post with us today on how being active can help cancer patients. Thanks Liz!

Physical Activity for Cancer Patients

In cancer treatments in the past, doctors have supported reduced physical activity, making rest an essential part of the healing process. While this is advised when movement may cause pain, result in shortness of breath, or produce a rapid heart rate, the latest research indicates the value of exercise cannot be underestimated as to improving the quality of life and how patients function physically as a result. Conversely, too much rest has been proven to lead to muscle weakness, loss of physical function and a reduction in range of motion.

The Effect of Exercise on the Cancer Patient:

Maintaining a regular and moderate exercise routine improves overall physical condition, in spite of otherwise debilitating treatments. Moderate exercise is the same level of activity it takes for a brisk walk.

Exercise is instrumental in the following ways:

• Maintain and improve physical abilities
• Improves balance reducing risk of falls, broken bones
• Minimize muscle waste that would otherwise occur from inactivity
• Reduce risk of osteoporosis
• Help control body weight
• Improve circulatory blood flow reducing risk of blood clots
• Counteract fatigue, anxiety and depression, reduce symptoms of nausea
• Support independence allowing patients to enjoy social interaction
• Increase overall sense of self-esteem and improve quality of life

Considerations for Types of Exercise Appropriate for Cancer Patients:

A mutual decision can be made between patient and doctor as to what level of exercise is advisable based upon the type and stage of cancer that has been diagnosed, the patient’s fitness and strength level, stamina, and current cancer treatment. Consulting with a physical therapist or exercise physiologist is also useful in determining an appropriate exercise regime.

Some of the considerations are:

• Anemia
• Low white blood cell count
• Low levels of minerals in the blood such as potassium and sodium (often, vomiting and diarrhea may cause this to occur)
• Numbness in the feet

Cautions:

• Avoid public gyms and swimming pools as chlorine may irritate skin that has had radiation treatment (also, if there are catheters or tubes going into the body, to prevent infections)
• Avoid uneven surfaces (may affect balance)
• Resist using heavy weights or doing exercises that would stress the bones
• Drink plenty of fluids

With the conditions of osteoporosis, cancer that may have spread to the bones, arthritis, nerve damage, poor vision, poor balance, or weakness, it is wise to be mindful that these can cause injury or can break a bone. Watch for signs such as swollen ankles, unexplained weight gain, shortness of breath, pain dizziness, or blurred vision after limited exertion or while at rest. It is important, also, to share this information with the physician.

There are also groups where cancer patients can discuss exercise or receive emotional encouragement. There are groups for specific cancers like breast cancer support groups, liver cancer support groups and even mesothelioma support groups.

Liz Davies is a recent college graduate and aspiring writer especially interested in health and wellness. She became particularly interested in ways cancer patients can cope with the side-effects of their treatment after her mother became an oncology nurse for lung cancer.

Controversial Race Recap/Motivational Monday!

2011-10-17T09:19:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday! Personally, I plan on having a great day! How about you?

I wanted to give a little report on the half marathon this weekend.

But first, let me give you some background:

3 weeks ago, I ran the Women's Half Marathon. I was really surprised with my time, and felt great. I struggled a bit with how to train for 2 races so close together, and the long runs were 8 miles and 5.2 miles.

I was also doing some "single parenting" this weekend. My husband was working out of town and I would be with the kids all weekend. I had a wonderful friend who was kind enough to pick all of us up at 6am Saturday morning, drop me off at the race, and entertain my children while I ran.

However, Friday night, it was hard to convince the little darlings of my need for sleep. I ended up sleeping only a few hours, and doing so very badly.

This is me just before the race. I look so old when I'm tired..

I was optimistic about this race. It would be flatter than my last two (ahem, other two) half marathons, and I thought it would be easier. It was a beautiful day, the weather was perfect, so it started out great...

At mile 1, I was amazed that my Nike + was right on. I mean, the moment I crossed the 1 mile sign, it told me I hit a mile. At the WHM, my Nike + was consistently about .5 miles behind.

A little after 1.5 miles, something weird happened. The group I was with ran into a cross street, and there was another group running on that street. I thought it might be the Fun Run, but these folks all had on Half Marathon bibs. We all kind of looked around confused, and asked the other group where they came from.

Honestly, I forgot about that pretty quickly.

I started to struggle a little bit about Mile 4. I looked at my watch and noticed I was taking a little longer than usual. I wondered why for a second...

At Mile 6 I realized they weren't going to be handing out any Gu. I thought they were, so I didn't bring any. Oh no.

At Mile 8 I wanted to quit. I was uncomfortable. My hip flexors hurt so much. I was still doing my Run 3/Walk 2, but the Running intervals were getting a lot harder...

Before the race, I thought Nicki Minaj's "Superbass" was one of the coolest songs ever. I couldn't get enough of it. By Mile 9 I never wanted to hear it again. In fact, by that point, I hated every song that came on on my playlist.

At Mile 10 I started imagining quitting. I wanted to pull over and let someone drive me back to the finish line. I thought how much I hated running and never wanted to do it again. But the thing that kept me going was that my kids were waiting for me at the finish line. I wanted them to have the chance to see me finish.

I actually stopped to stretch sometime around this point. I never do that. But I thought maybe it would help. It was hard to run after that.

Somehow I muddled through the last 3 miles. It seemed like it would never end. I literally felt like I had been running for days. It reminded me of the 3 day labor with my son...

But I turned a corner and I could see the finish line. I stepped it up and ran as impressively as I could. My chip time was 2:37:54.

It took a while to find my kids. I gorged myself on a cinnamon raisin bagel with peanut butter. But my son gave me a kiss and told me he was proud of me, and that was the best thing in the world.

Here he is, ready for the race, with a beverage and everything..

But there's more..

Let me tell you about this lady. I don't know her name, but I see her a lot. I see her at all the running events; I see her on the track or the trail sometimes. She carries oxygen with her while she runs. Well, we had packed up and were driving to Starbucks (because I had promised myself a Salted Caramel Mocha). The course was pretty much closed. But there was that lady, giving it everything, all by herself, with her race number and her oxygen. She was determined, and she was going to finish. I was suddenly very inspired.

You know, you see these people who make it look so easy. They speed by you and finish early, and then while you're struggling to finish, they pass you with their medals on while they walk to the car. Well, this lady inspired me more than they did. Sure, the people who make it look easy are working too, but something about this lady.... I got a little teary.

So later in the day, I hear about the "Controversy". I had forgotten about the weirdness around 1.5/2 miles. But apparently, some people were directed the wrong way. Here's what I got from the race folks:

As many of you are aware, there was a misdirection error between Miles 1 and 2 that may have lengthened your run. We have no way of determining which runners were affected, but if you ran down Fairview Street rather than East Street, this involves you.

We have calculated the extra distance that some of you ran. The additional mileage is .409 miles.

So, I really don't know if this affected me or not. On one hand, my GPS was right on. But, on the other hand, it's *never* right on. Even if I *did* run an extra .409 miles, I still didn't PR. Of course, if I had run less, maybe I would have. But that's just on of those things you'll never know.

I *do* know these things, though:

1. I will not be running more than 4 miles at a time for the rest of the year.
2. I'm redoing my playlist.
3. I will *alway* have Gu.
4. My kids are awesome.

Sarah Fitness

High Five I Finally Remembered I Have A Blog Friday!

The Plan For This Week...

High Five The Last Friday I'll Ever Be 37 Years Old Friday

It's Okay Thursday...

The Power of Awesomeday!

Scheduling Hour by Hour: Why Have I Never Done This Before?

Inspiration: April the Runner

The Plan... subject to change..

Readjusting your goals..

High Five Blog Hopping Crazy Friday (of awesomeness)!

It's Ok Thursday #4

Just keep swimming...

A little dose of inspiration: Jaycee's story

When you have every reason in the world for a pity party, but choose not to...

Workout Plan for the Week, coming up!

High Five Blog Hopping I need more cowbell FRIDAY!

It's Ok Thursday #3

Turbokick and Piyo Training: A Review

The Plan This Week...

High Five New Friend Weekend Warrior Friday!!

We *Don't* Want The Funk...

It's Ok Thursday #2

Well, that run kind of sucked a lot...

Why do challenge groups work?

February Beachbody Challenge:

January Goals in Review: How Did I Do?

The Plan

Once upon a Turbo..

High Five Blog Hopping Friday (of awesomeness)!

It's Ok Thursday... my first time...

Lesson Learned: There is no such thing as a perfect week

Take Action

When life happens...

The plan next week, and the week in review...

High Five Blog Hopping Friday!

Update on my January Beachbody Income Goal!

Practicing what I preach...

Excuses!

Thoughts on "The Biggest Loser"

Planning my week...

Getting back on track after a slip...

Les Mills Pump: How I'm Making it Work for Me

Shakeology: What's so great about it?

Want to Win a Workout Program?

Loving the Monday!

So Thankful to be a Beachbody Coach

Blog Hopping..

All it takes is a little planning... and flexibility..

Have you ever had this day?

Les Mills Pump- (very) early impressions.

First Run of the Year, and the Plan for January

Things I accomplished in 2011.. and look out 2012!

Where will YOU be in 30 days?

Setting your New Year's Resolutions!

Hang in there!

2012 Beachbody Challenge Groups!

Initial thoughts on P90X2: Continued...

Les Mills BodyPump is Teaming Up with Beachbody

I like you.

Initial thoughts on P90X2

Things that happened this week...

High Five I Love Coffee Friday!

One More Day to Pre-Order P90X2

Choices

On Being One of the "Cool Kids"...

Great Moments in Goal Achievement

To X(2) or not to X(2)? At least in December...

High Five Post Thanksgiving Holiday Friday!

Eating.

Every now and then, I have to post this post...

Have to= Get to

Need Motivation? Get it RIGHT HERE!

High Five Hallelujah It's Fitness Friday!

Sticky

All About The Beachbody Challenge Packs!

High Five it's.... Monday? Wha?

High Five Time to Get Positive Again Friday!

My day at the gym...

Yay! Monday!

We Don't Want The Funk...