Weight Training and Cardio

Today my friend, Melissa and I met with a trainer to show us the weight machines and how to properly use them. I used them before I was pregnant, but haven't since... Well today, I found that I was using improper form on several of the machines when I used them in the past.

Doing an hour of weight training is definitely more challenging than doing an hour of cardio. I left feeling energized, but weak if that makes any sense.

Our new plan is to do 15-20 minutes of cardio followed by the complete weight circut on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Then on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday doing just 1 hour of cardio. We will see how that goes... Wish me luck :)

Cut down on snacking by...

One way to cut down on unnecessary snacking is to brush your teeth immediately after eating.

Sensible Diet Tip

Reduce red meat consumption; eat lean meat, white meat, and fish.

Three Things You Need

"Table, plate, chair -- always use these three things when you eat meals and snacks. Research shows that you'll eat 43 percent smaller portions if you eat at a table, sitting in a chair and eating from a plate reather than eating out of the fridge standing in the kitchen or on the couch in the living room in front of the the television."

~ Dawn Jackson Blatner, The Flexitarian Diet, page 169

I find that I tend to eat too much too quickly while scurrying around trying to accomplish more in my day.

Relaxation

"Add twenty minutes of relaxation to your bedtime routine. Research has found that people can lose 2 pounds within the first eight days of adding relaxation before bed, because it can significantly reduce the number of nights you snack."

~ quoted from the Flexitarian Diet p. 35 by Dawn Jackson Blatner

Fact Stack

"Fill up with wet foods. Foods with a high percentage of water such as fruits and vegetables, soup, and oatmeal make you feel fuller than do dry foods such as toast, crackers or chips."

Dawn Jackson Blatner, The Flexitarian Diet, page 168

National Library Week

National Library Week is observed April 12-18 this year. Reading is a great way to educate yourself on living a healthy life. Check out some books at a library near you. For some suggestions on interesting books to read go here and browse or search by author's name or book title.

Feeling Good

"Take a cigarette-free smoking break. It's not healthy to smoke, but it is healthy to go outside for a puff of fresh air. When you feel office boredom, procrastination, or fatigue, go outside for a few minutes to get refreshed instead of visiting a candy dish or vending machine."

Dawn Jackson Blatner, The Flexitarian Diet, page 119

National Card and Letter Writing Month

National Card and Letter Writing Month is the U.S. Postal Service's annual month-long effort to promote literacy and celebrate the art of letter writing. Celebrate National Card and Letter Writing Month by using a stamp to show someone you care.

Consider:

Shut-ins who may appreciate a bright cheery card or letter
Hospitalized patients
Distant Family Members
Military Personnel stationed overseas
Military Families separated from their loved ones

Exercise Your Options

The following is taken from my 2008 Women's Monthly Planner for April 2008. It's from last year, but still good info. The planner is published by The Positive Line.

Let the benefits of physical fitness inspire you to get moving! Moderate exercise can boost your immune system, lower your risk for heart disease and several cancers, fight depression, improve sleep, strengthen bones, and so much more. Incorporate activity into every day: Walk whenever possible, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or enroll in a dance class. Get creative and have fun with fitness!