Treadmill and Reading

I went to the gym solo today, since Melissa was busy. I fell into my old habit of reading on the treadmill. I'm still not back to my normal pace. Today I walked about 3.25 miles and rode the bike about the same - at least it was better than nothing. When Melissa joins me I push myself harder because I need extra motivation to get on the elliptical machine which she loves. I don't like it because its harder work than the treadmill, but my doctor and a physical therapists have told me that I shouldn't run on a treadmill and that the elliptical would be best for me.

Workouts

I've been going to the gym with my friend, Melissa each day. It's great to have a workout partner. I've been told by doctor's and physical therapist that I shouldn't run on the treadmill because of my back issues and that I should use the elliptical machine - problem is - I greatly dislike the elliptical machine. The great thing is Melissa LOVES the elliptical and she motivates me to use it instead of running on the treadmill AMA. We went to the gym six days last week - Yippee! We went yesterday and did 45 minutes on the elliptical and 20 on the treadmill. This morning I had to take the baby in for her eight week check up and my older daughter got her flu shot, so we spent most of the morning out. Then by the time we got home Melissa had to leave for her doctor's visits which means no gym time today.

We got our first snow today - the kids were so excited.

The Flexitarian Diet by Dawn Jackson Blatner

I found this interesting book in the new
books section at my library the other day. I like the idea of eating less meat, but still having lean meat occasionally. As I skimmed through this book I saw that they list the recipes as vegetarian and tell you how much meat you can "flex" into your diet. I plan to try some of the recipes and adapt them as they suit my needs.


The Back of the Book Says:

READY, SET, FLEX!

If you'd like to have all the health benefits of a vegetarian diet - but can't imagine giving up meat...

If you'd like to lose weight, increase energy, and boost your immunity - but can't stand following a bunch of rules and restrictions...

The Flexitarian Diet is just for you!

I'm good at eating lots of whole grains and fiber rich foods, but I need to increase the vegetables in my diet. I'm proud to announce that I'm eating some broccoli, corn, snap peas and water chestnuts with my dinner tonight (January 19). I used to have a menu that I followed and it really helped me stick to healthier eating rather than rummaging through the refrigerator and eating whatever I laid my eyes on first. I'm going to try to plan my menu around lean protein, grains and vegetables with occasional treats.

One hint from the book says to brush your teeth immediately after finishing your meals eliminating the need for something sweet after eating. I definitely need to do that.

Edited January 20, 2009 to add author's website provided by blogger, Thirsty Ape - http://www.dawnjacksonblatner.com

On My Way Back...

I got my phone call from the gym today that they were re-instating my membership effective February first, but I could start back today if I wanted to...if you know me you know I've been anxious to get back. I got into my gym clothes, nursed the baby and headed out the door. I decided to take it slow, since I haven't been to the gym since mid-June when I fell. I walked on the treadmill for 45 minutes on the Forestwalk program at a maximum speed of 4.0 mph and a maximum incline of 3.0. I walked for 2.75 miles today - it leaves lots of room for improvement. I can feel in my muscles that I did something - and to think I used to do between 4-6 miles 6 days a week without feeling much except for when I was pushing myself at the gym. I'm planning to do the Les Mills Body Flow class on Friday in addition to about 30 minutes of cardio. I'm going to switch things up as much as I can, so my body doesn't get used to my workout too quickly. Weight training will be done with my friend, Melissa on alternate days. My plan is to do cardio six days a week again, but having a newborn I may have to be more flexible. I'm not planning on leaving her in the childcare room at the gym until she is a year old - too many germs.

Now for the yucky stuff... measurements - having a baby did a number on my body this time. At seven weeks post-partum I still can't fit into any of my clothing. With my first child almost 9 years ago I was back into my pre-pregnancy clothes two weeks post-partum. With my son almost 3 years later it took a little longer, but I know it happened before my 6 week check-up - but I still had about 15 pounds to lose to get back to my normal weight. This time its a whole new ball game. I have weight and inches to lose... I'm just going to deal with inches because that is what really matters most...

I felt really good after coming home from the gym and I didn't even want the snacks that I made yesterday because I didn't want to counteract my exercise.

National Day of Service

Have you ever noticed that you feel better emotionally when you are doing something to make someone else's life better? Every day you have the opportunity to serve others. You can join many others as we observe the National Day of Service on Martin Luther King's birthday. For more ideas on community service and volunteer opportunities go here or read this post.

Cleared for Take-Off...

but since it's so cold outside I'm delaying my flight to the gym until at least Monday. Seriously now, my doctor gave me the go ahead to get back to exercising after giving birth to my newest blessing. I called my gym to re-instate my membership, but the manager was out. I'm hoping to be good to go by Monday. Wish me luck as I attempt to get back into my pre-pregnancy clothes...

National Skating Month

January is National Skating Month. Skating would be an invigorating exercise to try this month. I've never been ice skating, but have enjoyed roller skating as a kid.

January is National Skating Month, as designated by U.S. Fgure Skating. Now in its eighth year, the program seeks to increase awareness and participation in figure skating for all ages and skill levels.

Make a Fresh Start

Happy New Year!

The following is taken from my 2008 Women's Monthly Planner for January 2008. It's from last year, but still good info and I will change the date related info for this new year. The planner is published by The Positive Line.

Plan for a great 2009 in every way. Have your agenda include good nutrition, physical activity, ample sleep and relaxation, and recommended health tests and screenings. If you use tobacco, this is your year to quit for good. You may find that setting specific goals and rewarding yourself when you reach them keeps you motivated. Remember that even small lifestyle changes can make a big difference.