30 sec. HI/30 sec. LI
The remainder of this week continued to be pretty solid in terms of my exercise and nutrition. I am remaining completely committed to my goals, even though I have returned to work. No excuses! I have been training twice a day, completing cardio workouts on my own (HIIT rowing, HIIT ropes) and then attending classes at Beyond Fit in the evenings. I am still feeling really good; with plenty of energy and completely recovered between workouts.
Incorporating interval training with the battling ropes was a really proud moment for me this week. I was almost giddy about it. Normally, they are something I have dreaded, knowing how challenging they can be. It was a huge step for me to incorporate them into a workout that I was in control of. No one was telling me to do something with them. I remember when I did this with burpees this the summer. I was in shock that I was doing them without being forced to. All of a sudden, something shifted. I did not mind them as much, dare I say, I kind of enjoy them. Let's see if the same thing happens with the ropes.
Incorporating interval training with the battling ropes was a really proud moment for me this week. I was almost giddy about it. Normally, they are something I have dreaded, knowing how challenging they can be. It was a huge step for me to incorporate them into a workout that I was in control of. No one was telling me to do something with them. I remember when I did this with burpees this the summer. I was in shock that I was doing them without being forced to. All of a sudden, something shifted. I did not mind them as much, dare I say, I kind of enjoy them. Let's see if the same thing happens with the ropes.
Since adopting a whole food plant-based diet in March 2012 (almost six months!), I have noticed some amazing changes for myself, beside the [evident] regular loss of body fat and inches. Let's talk all things girls for a minute here. My skin has never been better. I have been fortunate to have clear skin since adolescence, but this is more than just being zit-free. There is this sort of glow effect, which may sound weird, but it's true and probably difficult to explain. Read this for more information about this. In addition to glowing skin, my hair and nails are growing more rapidly than ever. I also no longer have menstrual cramps, moodiness, and all of those other fun things that come along with being a woman. Sounds good, right!?
The new Happy Hour at Beyond FIT
After two weeks of consistently clean eating and training twice a day again, I also experienced the benefits of my nutrition in regards to training and recovery. Last week was my first week back from vacation and I experienced soreness for up to three days after a strength training workout. This is in strong contrast with my recovery time this week. I experienced minimal soreness which only lasted one day. My strength increased, as well. This felt amazing, especially in comparison to my drop in squats last week, which left me feeling defeated and discouraged. Last night I went up to 153 lbs., which was more than I was lifting prior to my vacation
153 lbs. on my back
In addition to all of these great benefits, I have never felt better. People have a misconception about what health is and what healthy feels like. For a long time, I thought I was healthy and that certain things were just normal to be feeling. Now I know this is not the case. You don't have to feel that way; sore, tired, over-trained, starving, deprived of great tasting food. With proper nutrition (that's delicious!) and the right strength and conditioning plan, you can feel and look amazing. Taking persistent and consistent action every day will help you continue on the path toward your goals so that you can be and achieve all that you ever wanted!