Mixing Up the Routine

Monday was my first trip back into the gym, and I must admit, it felt good.  We joined our local fitness center at one of the recreation departments in our county since it was fairly cheap ($100 for the year).  It's definitely a no frills gym, but it's got the basic equipment that you would need, with the exception of having free weights.

For the first night I decided to work my legs and back, so I did back extensions, leg press, toe raises, leg curl, and leg extension.  I also mixed in stretching and lunges with everything else.  I did 3 sets of everything and 2 rounds of it, so I felt a little sore when I was done, but it was definitely a good sore.

Tuesday was my run day, and it was a rough one.  Even though I waited until close to 8:00 p.m. to run, it was still extremely humid.  I was also reminded why I don't usually eat before going on a run - since I didn't really eat much lunch I went ahead and heated up leftover chili for dinner - BIG mistake.  I didn't get sick but felt heavy and blah for the whole run.  I definitely didn't get any faster, but at least I got out there and ran.  This is how I feel these days when I run -

Last night was to be another gym night, but I crashed early Tuesday night and didn't get my gym clothes together, so my neighbor and I took a 2.5 mile walk around the neighborhood with Guinness and then I worked my arms with some dumbbells at home.  Along the way my neighbor spotted this interesting sight -

It amazes me at how bugs can carry and hold so much more than their body weight.

Jess over at Run With Jess is doing something called the "Lose A Marathon Challenge" that Sharon and I are considering participating in.  It's 13 weeks long and the goal is to lose 26.2 pounds, which averages out to be around 2 pounds a week.  You have to send her your weigh in's and she keeps track of them while also offering tips and doing giveaways throughout the challenge.  You can also do the "Lose A Half Marathon Challenge" as well.  I think this may be a great way to help me jump start my weight loss and REALLY hold me accountable since I have to weigh in and submit it every Monday.  Head over and check it out!

Tonight is another 30 minute run, and I'm considering driving out to the greenway to get it done instead of doing it at home.  It's easier to do at home when J is out of town, but I really enjoy running on the greenway, and it should be a quick run for me.

Until next time,

Jen