Off Day Offerings: Empowerment

***DISCLAIMER: I understand that many of my blog readers do not share my faith and so may dismiss this. I encourage you to read this anyway, because the concepts are not based on my religion and are pretty dead on in my opinion.***

A dear, dear friend of mine (and adopted mother) sent me the link to two consecutive blog posts from Lysa TerKeurst. I had never heard of her before. She is apparently the President of Proverbs 31 ministries, which I had heard of. She has also written a bunch of books. I have to admit (sorry, Momma Joyce) that I began reading skeptically. But it is so dead on.

The first post is entitled: 'Nothing Tastes as Good as Peace Feels.' In this post, Lysa shares that 18 months ago she decided to start a 3-month long sugar fast. She liked it so much, she hasn't stopped! She writes the following:

Before my sugar fast, I was constantly bouncing between feeling deprived and guilty. All. The. Time. I was either feeling deprived because I was trying to watch what I ate or feeling guilty because I’d slipped back into the ‘eat whatever I want’ phase.

She goes on to say:

I switched from feeling deprived to feeling empowered.

Did you hear that? It's the sound of the nail being hit on the head. I have said this before..sort of...but never quite so accurately. When I lost those 91 pounds, the majority of the time I was living in 'empowerment'. I saw unhealthy foods and simply thought: "Yes, they exist. yes they are WAAAAAAY tastier than whatever I'm eating. But no, I'm not interested." I was empowered. And, shocker, I was successful.

Then came May. I switched back to guilt/deprived. For the last 3-4 months, I re-entered a state of feeling deprived when I ate healthy and guilty when I inevitably cheated. Another shocker: I gained 20 lbs.

For some unknown reason starting 16 August, I am once again empowered. On the 18th I had a meeting. It looked like they robbed a candy store in that meeting room. And it was 4 hours long! AND BORING! But, in my empowered state of being, I saw the candy and thought: "Yum, candy. Not for me though." And didn't think about it again. I was empowered. I am empowered.

The second post is entitled: 'The Courageous Choice'. Lysa discusses choosing healthy-ness to be courageous. She says:

It’s the courageous choice. This is the decision to do the right thing even when it’s unpopular, uncelebrated, and probably even unnoticed. It’s the choice to walk willingly on the path of discipline in the area of our food choices. It’s coming to the realization that changes need to be made and making those changes in the quietness of our pantry when no one else is looking. It’s me respecting myself enough to be courageous for me.

She goes on to say that it IS possible. And that the choice needs to be made not once, but again and again and again...and again.

Okay. To go one step further. I have really been thinking about these posts for awhile and I feel that the whole empowerment thing extends beyond the food. I feel like when I ran my 2:08:55 half marathon (!!!), I was running in empowerment. When I was marathon training, I fell into a guilt/deprived cycle. I began to hate the training (much like dieters hate their diets!). I felt guilty if I didn't prioritize running and I felt tired and worn out (deprived of emotional energy) when I did. I think this may have played a role in my decision to stop training. I think if--strike that--WHEN I decide to train for a marathon in the future it will HAVE to be in empowerment.

Happy Tuesday! I love you all, as always! Go forward with today and be empowered!!!!

Cardio Monday (and I Declare Bonus Cardio Yesterday!)

Today the assignment was:

Cross-Trainer: 50 minutes, all zone 2.

Why so boring, Devon? WHY?!? I assume the answer is some form of: because that's what you need to attain your weight loss goals. And so I do it.

My Stats:

Calories Burned: 597 (HR monitor)/588 (Cross-Trainer)
Total Time: 59:00 (including 4 minute cool-down)
Distance: 6.74 miles
Ending HR: 123

I also have decided that my day yesterday merits an extra cardio session credit. Here is a run-down of my day:

0630-0730: Wake up. Get ready. Eat. Get to gym.
0730-0900: Lifting.
0900-1100: Clean up. Eat. Get to church.
1100-1230: Church.
1230-1300: Eat.
1300-1430: Scrub the bathroom floor (on my hands and knees with bleach), clean the every bleach-able fixture in the bathroom, do the same in the other bathroom, vacuum every room of the house.
1430-1645: Mow the backyard. Weed whack the backyard. Deforest the weedy area by my house with 'weeds' so thick (like 3 inches in diameter!!!) that I had to wrestle with them and my tiny clippers to get them down. Mow the front yard.
1645-1705:Rush to clean up and get to Ryan & Meagan's (late!). And eat.
1705-1900: Participate in a team of 3 to Magic Eraser, wash, rinse, towel dry, Windex and ArmorAll my car and Meagan's truck.
1900+: Eat. Relax. Bed.

If that incredibly productive day doesn't count for cardio, I just don't know what does...

Tomorrow is a REST DAY!!!! Then lifting Wednesday.

Lifting Sunday & New Lifting Gloves!!!

Today was a lifting day! Since I awoke at 0600 yesterday, I decided to continue the trend and wake up at 0630 this morning, making tomorrow's return to an alarm at 0530 more tolerable. I think given the ability to go to bed at a reasonable hour (which I did both nights--despite MamaWags' protests and repeated attempts to get me to go out with her and a bunch size 0 college girls), this is a nice plan. Since I was up so early, I decided to lift before church.

The gym is EMP-TY at 0800 on a Sunday morning. I love it!!! Here is the lifting (all supersets):

Squat Press x 3s x 12r @ 300lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down)
Side Step-ups to Balance x 3s x 12r @ 25-30lbs (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down) (25 lb DBs.)

Seated Leg Curls x 3s x 12r @ 100 lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down)
Overhead Squats x 3s x 12r @ BW lbs (keep you hands straight above your head, 2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down)

Flat DB Flyes x 3s x 12r @ 20lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down)
BOSU Push-ups Ball Side x 3s x 12r @ BW (black base down, blue side up, 2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down)

Seated Row x 3s x 12r @ 60lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down)
Bent-over DB Row x 3s x 12r @ 25-30lbs (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down) (30 lb DBs.)

DB Side Raises x 3s x 12r x 7.5lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down)
Alternating Arm Seated Shoulder Press-FM x 3s x 12r @ 35lbs (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down)

Hanging Leg Raises 3s x 15r @ BW (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down)

I feel great after today's workout! I love when that happens! I will say that if you were wondering what muscles will be the most sore after running for the first time in a month, they are EXACTLY the muscles used during the Squat Press. Ow-ey ow owsas!!!!!

On an unrelated note, I bought my first pair of lifting gloves last week. Previously, I used either no gloves or a pair of gloves left over from my deployment (Devon said they were fine). I bought the Harbinger Women's Lifting Gloves. They are only $9.99 at Dick's Sporting Goods--what a deal!!! I also purchased my own set of Lifting Straps as Devon has frequently forgotten to leave them for me lately. I'm not gonna lie: I feel a little more legit now. Anyways, I used them for the first time Friday (but completely forgot to write about them in my post!!!). What. A. Difference!!! My lifting experience is WAAAAAAY better. The other gloves I was wearing were a bit loose and holding dumbbells was more difficult. These snug fit gloves make lifting so much better!!! I told Devon and he smiled and said that he will give me heavier weights now... Whoa, whoa, whoa...wait a minute...slow down there, buddy...

Next workout: cardio tomorrow.

My Inaugural Bagel Run

Well, I *finally* made it out to a Howard Country Striders Bagel Run! I've wanted to go for some time now. In the beginning of my running life, I was super intimidated. Yes, yes, they claim (in bold font) that runners of all skills and abilities are welcome, but a girl's got pride! ;) Or at least she used to... I have come to the point where I am proud of my accomplishments and really treat running as an individual sport (i.e. I compare myself against myself), although running in groups makes it so much better (in my opinion)!!!

Anyways, Jess B. invited me to come out with her this morning, so I did! We set out to go 8. Since I had not really run any distance (except ONE treadmill session doing intervals) in the last 4 weeks (when I ran 8 with STB), I was nervous. I gave her the following conditions:

1) We go slow; and
2) We may need to walk some.

She agreed. And so did I! We met at 0645 (or 0650...whatever...) and the Bagel Runners take off promptly at 0700. We said goodbye to Jess's husband, Jeremy, as he runs super fast and we knew we wouldn't see him until he was well rested post-run (p.s. he ran 2 miles further than us and still whooped us...love it.). I ended up needing to walk a lot more of it than I would have liked (i.e. ZERO). However, I feel pretty okay about that decision. I am not training for anything. I burned a good number of calories and I hadn't run in a month!

Here are the stats (first by overall, then by walk/run breakdown) and this is a link to the route:

Total Distance: 8.05 miles
Total Time: 1:46:21
Total Calories Burned: 953
Average Pace: 13:13 min/mile
Average HR: 165

Lap 1 (Run): Distance: 4.69 miles; Time: 55:07; Calories Burned: 609; Avg Pace: 11:45 min/mile; Avg HR: 171
Lap 2 (Walk): Distance: .31 miles; Time: 6:36; Calories Burned: 30; Avg Pace: 21:16 min/mile (water stop included); Avg HR: 162
Lap 3 (Run): Distance: .48 miles; Time: 5:54; Calories Burned: 56; Avg Pace: 12:25 min/mile; Avg HR: 162
Lap 4 (Walk): Distance: .16 miles; Time: 2:29; Calories Burned: 15; Avg Pace: 15:36 min/mile; Avg HR: 167
Lap 5 (Run): Distance: .72 miles; Time: 9:12; Calories Burned: 78; Avg Pace: 12:49; Avg HR: 164
Lap 6 (Walk): Distance: 1.36 miles; Time: 23:06; Calories Burned: 126; Avg Pace: 16:57; Avg HR: 153
Lap 7 (Run): Distance: .33; Time: 3:54; Calories Burned: 39; Avg Pace: 11:52; Avg HR: 170

We walked to the water stop (between miles 4 and 5, closer to 5). It was my hope to walk a decent amount there and not have to walk again. That did not happen. I probably *could* have pushed myself to run more of it, if not the whole thing, but I am pleased with the workout I got. It wasn't easy and I feel good. I hope Jess is okay with it!!! She's awesome for walking so much with me! Also, at lap 6, we walked awhile because I was talking Jess's ear off which I wasn't able to do while running, so I intentionally took the break for some much needed (emotionally) conversation. I just love Jess so much! We don't spend tons of time together, but it is always AWESOME! She gets me in ways that a lot of other people don't or can't, thanks for that Jess!!!

Also, TAA was there! I did not see him even once which is not surprising since he runs like 6:30s, but like a good stalker/groupie I thought I should mention this fact. :)

Next workout: lifting tomorrow!

Lifting Friday

Devon wrote me a great lifting set today! I didn't hate *any* of the assigned exercises (there are usually at least one or two I dread when initially perusing the workout). I also felt great during the whole thing! Here it is:

Seated Leg Extensions x 3s x 12r @ 90-100lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (90 lbs.)
DB Squats to Calf Raise x 3s x 12r @ 15-20lbs (hold the dumbbells up at the shoulders as if you were about to do a shoulder press, 2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down) (20 lb DBs.)

Lying Leg Curls x 3s x 12r @ 90 lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down)
Reverse DB Lunge to Balance x 3s x 12r @ 25-30lbs (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down) (30 lb DBs.)

Flat BB Bench Press x 3s x 12r @ 65-75lbs (Smith Machine, 2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (75 lbs.)
Push-ups with hip extension x 3s x 12r @ BW (one leg of the ground, 2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down)

Pull-downs x 3s x 12r @ 55-65lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (65 lbs.)
Lying Dumbbell Pullover x 3s x 12r @ 25-30lbs (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down) (25 lbs.)

Standing DB Shoulder Press x 3s x 12r x 15-20lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (20 lb DBs.)
Bent-over DB Flyes x 3s x 12r @ 7.5-12.5 lbs (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down) (12.5 lb DBs.)

Alternating Arm Dumbbell Hammer Curl x 3s x 12r @ 15-20lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (20 lb DBs.)
Staggared Stance Cable Rope Triceps Push-downs x 3s x 12r @ 25-35lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (35 lbs.)

Long Lever Stability Ball Crunch 3s x 15r @ BW (Hands above head, 2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down)

I pushed myself hard today. I did the heavy-end of the weight ranges for all except leg extensions and the dumbbell pull-overs. The leg extensions burn. 90 lbs was a good choice. I *may* have been able to 95 lbs, but didn't recognize that until I was done. I started out with the 100 lbs and the first rep showed me it was too much. :) I could have easily done 30 lbs on the pull-overs but I prefer a weight plate to a dumbbell and the weight plates only come in 25 or 35 lbs. I wasn't sure about 35 so I stuck to the 25 lbs.

At the end of my workout and bumped into Devon. I asked him some questions I had about the slow instructions. We then talked about the workout. I told him how I rocked it. He said, "Good job." I cannot handle new compliment-ing Devon. It's weird.

Next workout: 8 mile run with Jess tomorrow!

Step-Mill Thursday

Devon assigned me cardio today:

Step-Mill: 50 minutes, all zone 1

a.k.a. Extreme Boringness. Lucky for me, I excel at all things *extreme*. ;)

My Stats:

Calories Burned: 370.5 (Step-Mill)/459 (HR Monitor)
Total Time: 50:00
Distance: 2.70 miles
Floors Climbed: 129 (+ 2 I had to walk up to *get* to the weight room)
Average HR: 141
Ending HR: 145 (with no cool down)

Next workout: lifting tomorrow!

Off Day Offerings: HCL's Bodybuilding Competition

Saturday night was the National Physique Committee MET-Rx Maryland State/East Coast Classic Bodybuilding Fitness Figure & Bikini Championships!!!!

Amanda and I were almost late because they did not accept credit cards and we had to go to an ATM. We decided to save time, I'd drive the get-a-away car and she'd run in, get $$$ enough for both of us and I'd just pay her later. I jokingly said she should tell the ticket seller man that she is buying two tickets--one for herself and one for her "lady friend." She did. He laughed. It *was* funny.

We saved two seats for Devon and his lady friend, who were an hour and a half late! He claims the GPS sent him the wrong way... OK, Devon...

Amanda and I were decked out in Liz-support gear:





There were a million and five categories, but finally Liz's came up! Here she is posing, showing off her amazingly sculpted muscles:



And here she is on the far right winning 4th place!!!!


The large, muscle-y man in the middle is BTOT (aka Dr. Doom, aka Brandon) winning first place:



And this is the guest poser. He. Is. HUGE! His name is Seth Feroce. He is the 2009 NPC National Champion. A quick internet search shows that he is fairly new to the game and is kicking the competition to the curb. I mean, this picture does no justice: frighteningly huge.



All in all, we had a great time! I used to be of the school of thought that body building was gross. I thought that that many muscles was just disgusting. I think spending so much time lifting, I am fascinated by the amount of work that goes into it and also seeing the muscles so well-defined and sculpted. It's cool, in a way, to see what the muscles look like that I am using to do lat pulldowns (or insert your favorite lifting exercise). Devon and his girlfriend (also a personal trainer) gave me some great commentary to understand things a little better. And to laugh. We had fun.

Another thing that I took from the evening was just how good Lifetime Fitness in Columbia is. This was an East Coast Competition that served as a National Qualifier. The entrants, though mostly local, came from around the world (one guy was from Sierra Leone!). Lifetime was ALL over this event. One of the judges was a Lifetime Columbia trainer. Two of the behind the scenes people who seemed to make things run smoothly were Lifetime Columbia members that I see all the time. The "Best Poser" certificate was awarded to a Lifetime Columbia member who is so nice. 5 Lifetime Columbia personal trainers competed (and possibly 2 more--we left early). Of these 5, all placed top 5 in their categories--2 won first! A Lifetime Columbia member won 4th place in his category. And the audience was filled with recognizable faces. I feel good about the choice I made to go and train there. They seem to know their stuff and be respected in the body-building circuit. I like that.

Amanda and I decided that we would totally go again. HCL's next competition is in Ohio. We won't go THAT far... But to another local one? Sure!

Twenty More Pounds! It's On...

Today was an ABD day! We weighed in and did body fat measurements to get a baseline for RE-losing the 20 pounds I've gained back. I am back (and maybe better than ever, but maybe not)! My body fat is currently 25.6%. So I am 20 pounds and 8.4% body fat higher than my low in May. The goals for 'healthy' is 20%. We'll get back there...

Devon will be weighing me and taking body fat measurements bi-weekly. Typically, we do body fat every 6-8 weeks, but I proposed a good case for doing it every session:

1) I am a math nerd. I cannot track changes and do nerdy statistics without collecting data points;
2) I am easily discouraged by a lack of weight loss, the body fat numbers could help if this situation occurs;
3) Because I said so; and
4) I want to track it more closely since last time I went down to 17.2% and I am curious at what weight I will hit 20%.

Devon found the arguments very compelling (well, all except for #3, which he made a *priceless* face at) and agreed.

The lifting (all supersets):

Hack Squats x 3s x 12r @ 270 lbs
BB Front Squats x 3s x 12r @ 45 lbs ✓

Deadlifts x 3s x 12r @ 115 lbs
Lying SB Leg Curls x 3s x 12r @ BW ✓

Incline DB Press x 3s x 12r @ 30 lb DBs ✓
Standing Cable Press x 3s x 12r @ 17.5 lbs each side

Bent-Over BB Rows x 3s x 12r @ 70 lbs ✓
Standing Lat Pulldown x 3s x 12r @ 50 lbs ✓

Standing Military Press x 3s x 12r @ 45 lbs ✓
Prone SB Shoulder Press x 3s x 12r @ BW

Devon actually offered up sincere compliments today. It was really weird. When I completed the first set of BB Front Squats, his face was a bit surprised and he said, "Good form..." *Gasp!* At the end of the session he went through the exercise sheet and checked off all of the exercises I had good form on. Look at all the check marks!!! I really feel like I am getting somewhere. YAY!

He also provided constructive feedback on the others. On the Hack Squats, I need to get lower (not gonna happen...ok, maybe it will, but it hurts my knees!). On the Deadlifts, he wants me to go lower. On the Standing Cable Press, I lean forward while pressing. On the Prone SB Shoulder Press...well, that whole thing was an awkward mess! But it was my first time. :)

I made Devon a present:



There are two--one that is good until December, another for the first 6 months of next year. I have committed to be rational and not crazy upon presentation of the card. But he'd better use it wisely, it is one time use. He asked if he could tear it in half to use twice. I told him no. He has not quite figured out what Holly Holly has (I gave her identical cards that read: Get Out of Stubborn Free for when I don't want to eat healthy.): that it does NOT say that you cannot reproduce it. Blast! Don't tell Devon!!!

Two funny Erin/ABD interactions (well, I thought they were funny):

1) I've been french braiding the front of my hair to get it out of my face. In the past I wore pigtails and Devon HATED them. He would constantly comment about how 'only five year-olds wear pigtails.' This never stopped me, I told him that it got the hair out of my face and that was that. I stopped because my hair it too short and they look like toddler poofs, which even I can't pull off NOT because he verbally hated them so much. So, the following conversation ensued:

Me: Devon, you didn't even comment on my new hairstyle. I braided it.
ABD: Huh. I was starting the like the pig tails.
Me: (internal) BREATHE IN. BREATHE OUT; (external) ::"You've got to be joking" face::
ABD: What? The pig tails are cute, kind of... 'Quirky Erin'.
Me: You're killing me, Devon.

2) On the Standing Cable Press, he asked was concerned the weight was too heavy. I told him that it was actually quite reasonable (bordering on easy). He also was impressed that I pressed the 30 lb DBs without a problem:

Me: Remember, Devon, I have a strong chest.
ABD: You're chest is immaculate.
::awkwardly long period of silence::
Me: (quietly, not making eye contact) AY-OOOOOH...
::another awkward pause::
Me: You are just DYING to make the blog again tonight, huh, Devon???

And he did. Well done. Little did he know that he makes the blog *without* being racy and controversial!

We also had good conversations about being 'in the zone', reasonable goals, the plan ahead, etc...but I have written WAY too much already.

Next workout is Thursday. I am resting tomorrow.

I'd Forgetten What Healthy Felt Like

It's Cardio Monday! Devon assigned one of the most boring-est cardio routines EVER:

Cross-Trainer: 50 minutes, zone 2 (Recall that the cross-trainer is the elliptical with moving arms.)

Luckily I was in a *really* good mood today when I got to the gym, so I embraced the 50 minutes of zone 2 boring-ness and rocked it. While rocking it (approximately 35 minutes in), it occurred to me that I felt GREAT. It has been awhile since I have felt so good whilst exercising. The next thought was: "...and I've been eating perfectly on the diet plan for one week now." Duh. Eating Healthy = Better Workouts. Let me repeat that and make it stand out:

EATING HEALTHY = BETTER WORKOUTS

It's so simple. Yet, I repeatedly forget.

My stats from today:

Calories Burned: 512 (Cross-Trainer)/549 (HR Monitor)
Distance: 5.53 miles
Total Time: 52:00 (including 2 minutes of cool-down)
Ending HR: 135

Next workout: tomorrow with Devon! I made him a present... It's not a big deal--not really even a present, more of a something--but I'll wait to post about it *just* in case he actually reads this (which he NEVER does).

Lifting Sunday

Today I lifted. It was all about slow motions and balance (read: pain). But I felt great the whole time! And I expect to feel it tomorrow. :)

The lifting:

45 Degree Leg Presses x 3s x 12r @ 270-300lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (300 lbs.)
Side Lunges to Balance x 3s x 12r @ 20lbs (step to the side, bend the knee of the leg that moved while letting the other stay straight as you go down. Be careful not to let your knee come past the toes)

Barbell Deadlifts x 3s x 12r @ 90 lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down)
No Hands Standing Leg Curls x 3s x 12r @ 15-20lbs (Place your hands on your hips and balance while you do this Free Motion, 2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down) (20 lbs.)

Flat DB Flyes x 3s x 12r @ 15-20lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (20 lbs.)
Alternating Arm Dumbbell Chest Press x 3s x 12r @ 20-25lbs (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down) (25 lbs.)

Pull-ups x 3s x 12r @ 90lbs or less (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (88 lbs.)
Staggered Stance Band Rows x 3s x 12r @ Purple Band plus Red or Blue Band (Anchor the band around something, 2 seconds in, 1 second hold, 3 seconds out)(switch feet in the middle of the last set) (purple + red)

Seated Machine Shoulder Press x 3s x 12r x 35-40lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (40 lbs.)
Alternating Arm Dumbbell Front Raises x 3s x 12r @ 5-10lbs (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down) (10 lbs.)

Alternating Arm Dumbbell Biceps Curls x 3s x 12r @ 20-25lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (20 lbs.)
Staggered Stance Cable Triceps Pushdowns x 3s x 12r @ 30-40lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (40 lbs.)

Modified V-Up x 3s x 15r (lay flat on a mat with your arms above you head, crunch up while bringing your knees in towards your chest. You should end up sitting balanced on your tail bone for a second at the end of the movement)
Hyperextensions x 3s x 15r

Again, I rocked the high end of the weight ranges (with the exception of bicep curls--20 lbs is hard enough!!!)!!! Oh, and... Modified V-Ups suck. :)

Next workout: cardio tomorrow!

Cardio Saturday

Today was a cardio day. The assignment was:

Treadmill 50 minutes (Z2 3 minutes, Z3 2 minutes), 1% incline

I was really nervous to run! It has been awhile. The last time I ran was was STB on August 1st--nearly three weeks!!! I thought perhaps I wouldn't be able to. I know that is silly and a touch irrational, but I really feared that I wouldn't have stamina!

I, of course, did just fine. And...I remembered that I love to run. :) Not sure I want to start training for anything just yet, but I had forgotten the feeling of a good run and I am so so happy to have it back. I intervalled today, but felt great that whole time! GREAT workout!!!

The stats:

Calories Burned: 576 (Treadmill)/626 (HR Monitor)
Total Distance: 4.40 miles
Total Time: 60:00 (including warm-up and cool-down)
Ending HR: 125

Next workout: lifting tomorrow. But *tonight* is the Bodybuilding Competition!!! I am very pleased with the matching LIZ! T-shirts. :) Pictures forthcoming.

Devon It Is. I'm Staying Put.

I've decided to stay with Devon. His response to me hit on a key point--I don't want to keep jumping trainers and using them as a crutch. We are now focused on preparing me to do this on my own. To that end, I wrote a workout for today and sent it to Devon! Here is my submission (with his comments peppered throughout):

Squat Press x 3s x 12r @300 lbs (2 seconds down, 2 seconds up)
Barbell Deadlifts x 3s x12r @ 90 lbs (2 seconds down, 2 seconds up)
---These are two strength exercises. These particular phase calls for a strength exercise followed by a stability based exercise of similar joint mechanics. Think lunge or step-up with a balance at the end.---

Seated Leg Curls x 3s x 12r @ 100 lbs (2 seconds down, 2 seconds up)
Prisoner Squats x 3s x 12r @ BW (5 seconds down, hold 1 second, 5 seconds up)
---Overly long phases of movement on the second exercise. Eccentric portion (down in this case) doesn't to be any longer that 3-4 seconds unless you are doing "negatives", and you're not. The concentric portion (up) is way to long. You can't develop power moving that slowly and you might actually decrease the power that you are able to produce. 2 seconds or less on the up portion.---

Seated Row x 3s x 12r @ 60 lbs (2 seconds out, 1 second hold, 3 seconds in)
BB Bent-Over Row x 3s x 12r @ 50 lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down)
---The tempos are switched. While they are not drastically different, they are designed to elicit different adaptations in the body. The second exercise should be the slower paced one and should be a stability based exercise.---

Stability Ball DB Flyes x 3s x 12r @ 20 lbs (2 seconds down, 2 seconds up)
Assisted Dips for Chest x 3s x 12r @ 65 lbs or less assistance (2 seconds down, 2 seconds up)
---Again, the second exercise should be stability based and slower in tempo. Flat Dumbbell Flyes followed by BOSU Push-ups.---

FM Shoulder Press x 3s x 12r @ 35 lbs (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down)
DB Side Raises x 3s x 12r @ 7.5 lbs (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down)
---Side Raises first with a 2 up, 2 down tempo. Make the press the second exercise and keep the tempo the same.---

Hanging Bicycles x 2s x 20 r @ BW
---This is fine.---

Not terrible for just taking a stab at it based on Sunday and Wednesday's lifting. I didn't know what he was thinking and tried to figure it out. Here's what I ended up doing:

Squat Press x 3s x 12r @300 lbs (2 seconds down, 2 seconds up)
DB Step Ups x 3s x12r @ 30 lbs (2 seconds down, 2 seconds up)

Seated Leg Curls x 3s x 12r @ 100 lbs (2 seconds down, 2 seconds up)
Prisoner Squats x 3s x 12r @ BW (3 seconds down, hold 1 second, 2 seconds up)

Seated Row x 3s x 12r @ 60 lbs (2 seconds out, 2 seconds in)
BB Bent-Over Row x 3s x 12r @ 50 lbs (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down)

Stability Ball DB Flyes x 3s x 12r @ 20 lbs (2 seconds down, 2 seconds up)
Bosu Push Ups x 3s x 12r @ BW (3 seconds down, 1 second hold, 2 seconds up)

DB Side Raises x 3s x 12r @ 7.5 lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down)
FM Shoulder Press x 3s x 12r @ 35 lbs (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down)

Hanging Bicycles x 2s x 20 r @ BW

He said my workout wasn't terrible. I'll take that. He didn't give me any goal or tell me what to work toward. I think I guessed pretty decent. :) I'm proud of myself.

Next workout: cardio tomorrow and Devon has *already* assigned it!!!

Treadmill 50 minutes (Z2 3 minutes, Z3 2 minutes), 1% incline

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ATTENTION!!! IMPORTANT ERIN'S BLOG RETRACTION!!! ATTENTION!!!

Devon is now attending the bodybuilding competition Saturday! I know. He is so wishy washy. But I only am making tshirts for me and Amanda. Sorry, D-Money... Too late.
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"This is Totally Making the Blog, Devon."

Today was a cardio day! However, before that several noteworthy things happened:

1) At Devon's request, I learned how to text his phone from my gmail account!!!!! I can text him ALL DAY LONG now. Before I had to email during the day, which he never checks. THIS MAKES ME SO HAPPY!

2) When I got to the gym, Devon was on the elliptical (I know, I am confused to. Devon is typically anti-cardio. When I asked him about this he said that he is taking his entire body wellness and fitness seriously. R-okay.). We talked about my training. I had emailed him the lists from my last blog post. He had sent me a good response. Should I include it here? Yes. Here it is:

Comments on pros: Numbers 9 and 10 are the most important. The rest are just perks (#7 is good).

Comments on cons: I agree with numbers 1 and 3 in fact but not in principle. Number 2 IS on you; I can only assist, I can't make you do anything. To that end, all things referring to number 2 are on you. I can only listen and be encouraging or scold you so much before you have to tell yourself that your goals are for you and not anyone else. You're in the driver's seat, not the trainer. Not me and not any other trainer. What I fear, is that you will start to create a cycle of moving to someone new each time you need a "fix". That, quite frankly, is my only reservation with moving on to Melissa. I don't presume to think that I am always going to be the best trainer for every situation. Objectively, this particular move would be no different than if you decided you wanted to do pilates (I'm not a pilates instructor). However, I question whether or not you are looking for a crutch instead of taking a little more personal responsibility (ok, I outright accuse you of it). I would personally like to see you get to the point when you don't need a trainer and the only reason you would train is because you just like it. That's when you are going to be able to maintain you goals. Getting the weight back off is a simple matter of doing what I tell you to do. That part's easy and as you've seen before, doesn't really take all that long. But keeping for it off, the loudest voice has to be your own, not mine, not Melissa's, not Liz's, not Zak's.

I think he makes some very valid points. I chatted with him while he sweat (a lot!) on the elliptical. I explained how, where I think he is right, I still *expect* more from my trainer. I *expect* that when I start back-sliding, they do something. We discussed what learning how to maintain/transitioning away from a trainer would look like. At lunch, Amanda F. and I were talking and she suggested I attempt to write lifting routines, then have Devon check/approve/edit them. This is a baby step toward writing my own workouts. I mentioned this to Devon and his sweaty face lit up. He loved the idea. It's one step int he right direction. I am still deciding, but leaning toward staying with him. This requires more thought. I am thinking of maybe emailing him a stab at my lifting for tomorrow and see what he thinks. If I do, I will of course post what I wrote and his changes for you all tomorrow.

3) When Devon got off of the elliptical, we were still chatting. We went to his office where he drank a protein shake. I said, "I probably should go so you can shower." He said he wasn't going to shower. I said, "Wait. Are you serious?" He said, "Yeah." I asked if he did this before our sessions. He said HE DID. I stared in stunned silence. And then informed him that I was judging him. I informed him that this abysmal hygiene practice was going to be in my blog post for the day. I am a woman of my word.

4) I asked Devon to clarify the difference between an elliptical and a cross-trainer. The cross-trainer has the moving arm things. The elliptical does not. So. For like a year and a half, I have been calling the cross-trainer the elliptical. I had never *actually* used the elliptical until today. FYI.

OK. Now for the workout. Devon assigned:

Elliptical: 50 minutes; zone 2; 3 minutes @ ramp 5, 2 minutes @ ramp 20, repeat

My stats:

Calories Burned: 575 (HR Monitor)/541.1 (Elliptical)
Total Time: 50:00
Total Distance: 4.03 miles
Total Strides: 7692
Ending HR: 19 (no cool down)

Next workout: lifting tomorrow!

To Switch or Not to Switch: That is My Question

Ok. I keep talking about switching trainers, but I like working with Devon. So why? Amy suggested that I write a list of pros/cons or something analogous. Here it goes...

Why I Want to Work with Devon
-------------------------------------------
1) Devon's knowledge on the subject matter is quite impressive. The only trainer I've seen who is either at the same level or better is Hard Core Liz.
2) Devon patiently and thoroughly explains his rationale for all exercise and diet instructions by tapping into the extensive knowledge base referred to in 1).
3) Devon goes so far above and beyond our bi-weekly hour long sessions writing workouts (between 2 and 4 a week) and fielding my questions (which can be numerous).
4) Devon is intimately familiar with my crazy. He handles it quite well. I am actually impressed. If and when I ever find a man willing to be in a relationship with me, I may give him Devon's number for surviving-erin's-crazy-recon.
5) Despite 4), Devon still appears to enjoy working with me.
6) Despite 4), Devon is still willing to work with me.
7) Devon seems to have a good plan for moving forward.
8) For the first 5 months, I was a rock star under Devon's training.
9) I enjoy Devon.
10) I truly believe Devon is invested in my success.

And now...

Why I Don't Want to Work with Devon
---------------------------------------------------
1) Devon frequently does not respond to my emails. That's ok if it is a side question or something that is not time sensitive.
2) For the last 3 months, I have not been a rock star under Devon's training. I have, in fact, gained back 20 of the pounds I lost. I see this as a personal failure, but additionally, I see it as a failure of the trainer/client team. At *many* points along the way, he should have recognized that I was not being successful and worked with me to improve this.
3) To add on to 2) a bit, I went to him *many* times during the last 3 months saying, "Devon, I am not sticking to the plan. Help me!" and we talked and talked and talked, but never made progress. Yes, this is on me. But I need a trainer who can help me with this.
4) I worked with ZTT for 8 months before he left. I've been working with Devon for 8 months. Maybe it's time to switch?
5) If I switched, I would work with Melissa. I think working with a female would be completely different. I think I wouldn't try to pull a lot of the crap I try to pull with a male trainer. Amy worries I may not respect her the same way. I think I would respect Melissa.
6) If I did train with Melissa, I am confident she would be blunt, straight and stern with me. She's a tough cookie. I like that about her.
7) Because, as Devon pointed out, I get bored easily, switching it up may be good for getting back in the game.
8) I feel like because of 2), Devon failed at teaching me maintenance--this may be unfair and harsh--but I feel that another trainer may have a better grasp on it.

::sigh:: Blog readers! I need your help and input. Based on my lists (and your knowledge of me), what should I do?????

Thanks guys!!!!

I Called Devon Today...

...it was a productive conversation. It was fun. But I am left somewhat dissatisfied. I am considering not training with Devon anymore. I had some piano bench counseling from Amy and Grant (well, Grant was in the room...) and I think I will make another post listing my wants/needs and the pros/cons of ABD and ATM. This may seem harsh and rash. I assure you it is not. This is the first time I am considering this when I am not visiting Crazyville. Anyways, this is material for a different post entirely. Moving on.

I asked Devon for my workout by 3pm today. He sent it at *exactly* 3:00 pm. Really, Devon?!?! On the phone I accused him of trying to make me fat. Recall when Devon told me about stress causing belly fat. He was intentionally stressing me out, thus making me fat. He then told me that he took a nap after being at work at 5am (YUCK!) and woke up close to 3. He thought, "Oh no! Erin's workout!" and rather than peeing, which he *really* needed to do, he wrote my workout for me. In his words, he "risked a urinary tract infection" for me. Aww, Devon...

Here's my routine (all supersets, except the crunches):

Seated Leg Extensions x 3s x 12r @ 90-100lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (75 lbs...I completely forget to change the weight that was on there. Didn't realize it until I was done.)
Dumbbell Squats to Calf Raise x 3s x 12r @ 25-30lbs (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down) (30 lb DBs.)

Lying Leg Curls x 3s x 12r @ 90 lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down)
Reverse DB Lunge x 3s x 12r @ 25-30lbs (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down) (30 lb DBs.)

Flat BB Bench Press x 3s x 12r @ 65-75lbs (Smith Machine, 2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (75 lbs.)
Push-ups x 3s x 12r @ BW (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down)

Pull-downs x 3s x 12r @ 55-65lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (65 lbs.)
Straight Arm Pull-downs x 3s x 12r @ 25-30lbs (at the pull-down, stand up, grab bar, keep arms straight, pull-down bar to thighs, bring back up, 2 seconds down, 1 second hold, 3 seconds up) (30 lbs.)

Standing DB Shoulder Press x 3s x 12r x 15-20lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (20 lb DBs.)
Rear Delt Flyes x 3s x 12r @ 30-40lbs (2 seconds out, 1 second hold, 3 seconds in) (40 lbs.)

Dumbbell Hammer Curl x 3s x 12r @ 15-20lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (20 lb DBs.)
Cable Rope Triceps Push-downs x 3s x 12r @ 25-35lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (25 lbs.)

Stability Ball Crunch 3s x 15r @ BW (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down)

Note that with the exception of the leg extension mishap and triceps I did the heavy end of the weight range on all of them!!! Also, today at work I resisted free candy for an entire 4 hour meeting!!! I am so back (TOM!). :)

Next workout: cardio of some sort tomorrow.

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ATTENTION!!! IMPORTANT ERIN'S BLOG RETRACTION!!! ATTENTION!!!

Devon is a big muscle-y liarface and is NOT attending the bodybuilding competition Saturday. I don't want to talk about it.
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Off Day Offerings: My Saturday Night

This Saturday I will be attending some part (probably the evening show) of the...drum roll please:

National Physique Committee MET-Rx Maryland State/East Coast Classic Bodybuilding Fitness Figure & Bikini Championships!!!!

Why, you ask? Well, there are several reasons:

1) Amanda F. is going and I like to do what she does;
2) I've always wanted to go to a body-building competition...no, really;
3) Hard Core Liz is COMPETING!!!; and
4) DEVON is coming with us!!!!!

According to HCL, there is 'pre-judging' at 10:30 am where they do some stuff but it is super low key and not what all the hype is about. The evening show is apparently where it's at. That's where what you think of for a fitness competition takes place.

If you go to the event website, there are two big beefy guest stars--a guest poser and a guest emcee. ::trying hard to contain the excitement::

There will be muscles. There will be flexing. There will be posing. There will be clear high heels and bikinis. There will be bright orange fake tans. ::ready to burst with anticipation::

Oh, and in the audience there will be matching cheer for Hard Core Liz t-shirts. Devon *claims* he will not wear one, but we all know otherwise... ::and I've lost all control!!!!!!::

Remember to cheer on HCL from wherever you end up Saturday night!!! Oh, and if allowed, I *will* take pictures... :)

I Now Understand Why Gyms Have Mirrors Everywhere

Devon assigned me cardio for today. It's been awhile since he has had to since I was doing the marathon training for my cardio for awhile. He assigned 50 minutes on a cross-trainer in zone 2. Now, he has *never* referred to *anything* at the gym as a cross-trainer before, so I replied and asked what that was. He did not respond. I asked another trainer, Jay. Jay said it was an elliptical. Do you know how many times Devon and I have discussed ellipticals? Like a bazillion and five. Do you know how many times he's called it *anything* other than an elliptical, let alone a cross-trainer? Zero. So, I did the cardio on the elliptical.

Here are my stats:

Calories Burned: 517 (Elliptical)/586 (HR Monitor)
Total Time: 50:00
Total Distance: 6.11 miles
Ending HR: 148 (no cool down)

I did not enjoy my cardio today for several reasons--1) it's been awhile, I've been lazy; 2) I had been eating like a carb-loving fool for some time now (even though I kicked my diet's butt today); and 3) I was SO SORE from the lifting yesterday!!! About 30 minutes into it, I still wasn't loving it and wanted to stop. Then I happened to glance left and caught a glimpse of myself in the wall mirror. And saw my stomach. And got a whole new determination to complete the 50 minutes. And that, my friends, is why gyms have mirrors everywhere. It works.

I also realized one of my many gym fears today. While wiping the sweat off of my face with my sweat towel I caught my nose stud and nearly ripped it out. There was pain. There was blood. Luckily I had completed my workout and was talking to ATM (Adorably Tough Melissa) when it happened!

Side note: I was asking ATM if she would be willing to train me if I became dissatisfied with ABD. She said yes, but thought the question was odd. I explained to her that both BTOT and HCL make no secret of the fact that they would never train me. She laughed, and said she would and would be tough enough to set me straight. Tempting, ATM... You catching this, ABD??? Yeah, you *should* be scared...

Next workout: Lifting, either Tuesday or Wednesday.

Slow It Down...

Today was my first workout since Tuesday (YIKES!). Marina's wedding was BEAUTIFUL!!!! Here are the sisters:



I wasn't going to ask Devon for a workout today. I was going to get back into it tomorrow. But then my friend, Tony (who was down from NJ to make me Pad Thai...and visit with friend!) told me that Amanda F. was working out at 1pm today. I thought, "I will too!!!" So that was that.

Devon gave me the following routine (all supersets), with many, many instructions on sloooooowing it all down. I have the feeling that I will feel this greatly tomorrow:

45 Degree Leg Presses x 3s x 12r @ 270-300lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (I did 300 lbs.)
Walking Lunges to Balance x 3s x 12r @ 20lbs (step, plant your foot, take second to go down, come up so the you are balancing on your front leg, step with the free leg, repeat cycle)

Barbell Deadlifts x 3s x 12r @ 90 lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down)
Standing Leg Curls x 3s x 12r @ 15-20lbs (Free Motion, 2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down) (I did 20 lbs.)

Flat DB Flyes x 3s x 12r @ 15-20lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (I used 20 lb DBs.)
Dumbbell Chest Press x 3s x 12r @ 20-25lbs (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down) (I used 25 lb DBs.)

Pull-ups x 3s x 12r @ 90lbs or less (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (I used 88 lbs assistance.)
Standing Band Rows x 3s x 12r @ Purple Band plus Red or Blue Band (Anchor the band around something, 2 seconds in, 1 second hold, 3 seconds out) (I used purple and red.)

Seated Machine Shoulder Press x 3s x 12r x 35-40lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (I did 40 lbs.)
Dumbbell Front Raises x 3s x 12r @ 5-10lbs (2 seconds up, 1 second hold, 3 seconds down) (I used 10 lb DBs.)

Dumbbell Biceps Curls x 3s x 12r @ 20-25lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (I used 20 lbs DBs.)
Cable Triceps Pushdowns x 3s x 12r @ 30-40lbs (2 seconds up, 2 seconds down) (I did 40 lbs.)

Bicycles x 3s x 30r
Hyperextensions x 3s x 15r

Note that I did the heaviest end of every weight range except bicep curls--and the 20 lb DBs was a challenge for those--and the pull-ups. I decided to give it all I had. :)

About halfway through I started to feel sick--probably from all the junk I've been eating combined with my sleepiness from so much traveling. I could have probably stopped without angering the trainer (he's a big baby), but I decided to try to push through. I am very pleased that I did! However, I got very sick while showering. I just needed to be asleep. I had pad thai plans with Amanda F. and Tony and some other friends. I went to Amanda's and slept for two hours! I feel better, but am a bit groggy...and the pad thai was delicious!!!!

Even in my grogginess I made sure to go to the supermarket--I am ready to eat healthy tomorrow!!!!

Next workout, some sort of cardio tomorrow!!!

Pete, Devon and Climbing

Busy day today! I have 3 separate topics. Ready? Begin.

1) My friend, Pete, has started reading my blog! We were discussing it today and I told him if he keeps reading and commenting he'll "make the blog"--a feat coveted by many and achieved by few. A look of terror swept over his face, he threw his hands in the air implying surrender and said, quite forcefully, "I'll stop!" I wouldn't be me if I let *this* go: WELCOME PETE!!!! I shall call you: RIP, short for Reluctant Irregardless Pete. ::wink:: (I'm so unrelentless. ::double wink::)

2) Devon and I had a meeting and a session. We met to discuss my training. Much was discussed and we have come to the conclusion that among MANY other issues I have, I get bored. To counter this, Devon proposed the following solution: plan out a year and break it into four parts (at this point I said somewhat snottily, "Quarters???" Devon responded appropriately sarcasticly with, "Or halves of halves." I decided with great joy we would call them half halves.) then schedule very different themes for each half halve (YES! I love it.) and have a 'thing' at the end of it--maybe a fun activity, maybe a workout goal like a race, etc... I think I like this. My next step is to email Devon my calendar for the next year. Devon will get me an updated diet (fewer carbs since marathon training is halted) and my year-long plan. He *claims* he will get these two items to me "in a day or two". I shall wait with bated breath.

The lifting was a crazy madhouse rush. Devon was on a mission to "get all the neurons firing". Mission accomplished (all 3 sets, 12 reps):

Hack Squats: 230 lbs
Seated Leg Extension: 100 lbs
Step-Ups: 50 lbs, 60 lbs, 60 lbs
Dead Lifts: 80 lbs, 90 lbs, 90 lbs
Seated Leg Curls: 115 lbs
BB Lunges: 55 lbs (12 reps each leg)
Seat Rows - Rope: 60 lbs
Seated Chest Press: 35 lbs, 40 lbs, 60 lbs (yeah, I asked him to up it--I'm tough)
Pull-Ups - Wide Grip: 72 lbs assistance
Seated Shoulder Press: 40 lbs
BB Preacher Curls: 40 lbs
Cable Triceps Pushdowns - V bar: 40 lbs

Kicked. My. Butt.

3) I left the gym and went straight to Earth Treks to climb. Genius move, I know. I did a 5.5, then a 5.6. I attempt a 5.7, but it owned me (I am ashamed.), then did another 5.6 instead. ::sigh:: I let the 5.7 get in my head. Larry berated me, as well he should. I will say that when I thought I couldn't do it, then did, I felt GREAT! But I had done that 3 times already and was only 1/3 of the way up. I was fatigued from lifting. Look at all of my excuses. :( Anyways, Larry told me that I have excellent movement on the wall for only my second time. That was an unsolicited compliment and I feel awesome!!!!

I'm off to NH tomorrow. No blogging. Sorry! Miss you already... ;)

Incredibly Boring Post

It's been awhile since I have had an incredibly boring post...at least I hope you haven't found my posts boring! But today's will be.

Did the step-mill. For only 25 minutes. Done.

I bumped in Devon. I am meeting with him for 30 minutes before our session tomorrow to discuss the plan for me and getting me back in the game. I think this means that tomorrow's post will be interesting. ;)

Pre-Math Trip Post: #4

Fun Math Proof Day!

Theorem: Girls are Evil.

1. “Girls require time and money”;

girls = time × money

2. “Time is money”:

time = money

3. So girls are money squared:

girls = money²

4. ”Money is the root of all evil”:

money =

5. So, girls are evil:

Congratulations, Fitness! You win.

Today Amanda F. and I hit the weight room at our hotel. We made the wise decision to not go out with the work crew and head home after the Pittsburgh Pirates game to get a reasonable amount of sleep. The Pirates game was great and the view from the ballpark is beautiful:



Amanda was doing chest and arms, and I was doing a light full body set. This is my first (and only) workout in Pittsburgh, so I felt like I should do *something*. Here's my routine:

Leg Extensions: 3s x 10 reps @ 92.5 lbs
Lying Leg Curls: 3s x 10 reps @67.5 lbs
Lat Pulldown: 3s x 10 reps @55 lbs
Row: 3s x 10 reps @50 lbs
Shoulder Press: 3s x 10 reps @50 lbs
Chest Press: 3s x 10 reps @50 lbs
DB Bicep Curls: 3s x 10 reps @15 lb DBs

For the dumbbell curls, Amanda was using the 20 lbs (which is what I normally do), but I was not incredibly motivated so I grabbed the 15s. I told her I was alternating. She said she was too! We were joking at how adorably nerdy we were lifting in sync. Since my laptop was down there to check in online for my flight at the appropriate time, we set up the timer and took a photo:



Adorable. I know.

While I was on the row, Amanda was on the chest press (dominating it...) next to me. She was commenting how she must have packed on a couple pounds with all the carbs on this trip because she could see her little tummy. I commented that I had as well. And then started laughing in a sense that Amanda thought I was crying while I exclaimed: "Why is the weight loss struggle so hard??!!? CONGRATULATIONS, FITNESS!!! YOU WIN." We laughed for a good bit, then kept lifting...

Next workout: maybe cardio tomorrow...maybe not. ;)

Pre-Math Trip Post: #3

Math Pick-Up Lines Day! (::hint, hint:: ::wink, wink::, available men...)

My love for you is like a concave up function because it is always increasing.

How can I know so many hundreds of digits of pi and not the 7 digits of your phone number?

You and I would add up better than a Riemann sum.

Hey baby, what's your sine?

I am equivalent to the Empty Set when you are not with me.

Being without you is like being a metric space in which exists a cauchy sequence that does not converge.

My love for you is a monotonically increasing unbounded function.

If I were a function you would be my asymptote - I always tend towards you.

Your beauty cannot be spanned by a finite basis of vectors.

My love for you is like the derivative of a concave up function because it is always increasing. we're going to assume this concave up function resembles x^2 so that slopes is actually increasing.

Pre-Math Trip Post: #2

Lame Math Jokes Day!!!! Enjoy...

Something for the non-math majors:

Q: What does the little mermaid wear?
A: An algae-bra.

Ok, now you may need to dig deep for some high school math skills:

Q: What is the first derivative of a cow?
A: Prime Rib!

"What is Pi?"
A mathematician: "Pi is the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter."
A computer programmer: "Pi is 3.141592653589 in double precision."
A physicist: "Pi is 3.14159 plus or minus 0.000005."
An engineer: "Pi is about 22/7."
A nutritionist: "Pie is a healthy and delicious dessert!"

Math AND Jesus! It's like it's my birthday...

One day, Jesus said to his disciples: "The Kingdom of Heaven is like 3x squared plus 8x minus 9."
A man who had just joined the disciples looked very confused and asked Peter: "What, on Earth, does he mean by that?"
Peter replied: "Don't worry - it's just another one of his parabolas."


A sad reality:

Q: What does the Ph.D. in math with a job say to the Ph.D. in math without a job?
A: `Paper or plastic?'


Random musing:

Do greek cows say: "μ"?


Indisputable fact:

It is proven that the celebration of birthdays is healthy. Statistics show that those people who celebrate the most birthdays become the oldest.

Two functions meet in a narrow street. The first functions says: "Clear the way!" The other function says: "No, I won't." The first function says: "Move over, or I will differentiate you!" To which the second function replies: "Ok, try it, I am e^x."


Oh snap! And now, for the shortest math joke ever. Drum roll please...

Let ε < 0.

--


Miss you all!!!

Pre-Math Trip Post: #1

Today I went to Pittsburgh to go to MathFest. I'll be here until Sunday. The upcoming posts will have nothing to do with dieting, working out or weight loss.

Imma get my geek on. Get ready.

Sometimes *I* Don't Understand Myself

Unfortunately for those in a 6 mile radius of me, Ms. Crankypants Grumplestiltzkin was still here. In full force. To top it off, ABD is really ticking me off. There have been emails exchanged. I'll leave it at that.

I had to do cardio and I went because: 1) I have not lost ALL grip on reality yet; and 2) I wanted the opportunity to shun ABD if I saw him. :) I'm totally serious. It's sad. It's pathetic. And it's true.

I didn't feel like doing cardio. I didn't feel like running. I didn't feel like walking. I didn't feel like ellipticalling and I didn't feel like cycling. So what did I do? Well, my friends, I did 60 minutes on the cardio machine I hate the most: the stepmill. I don't get me. Here was my underlying inner dialogue:

Me: Ugh. I don't feel like working out.
Me: I know. Tell me about it.
Me: But what should I do?
Me: Run?
Me: Noooo.
Me: Elliptical?
Me: Ugh. No.
Me: ...bike?
Me: Hmmm....no.
Me: Well, you hate the stepmill. Maybe you could do one full hour on the stepmill. That will show them.
Me: Great plan! Who's them?
Me: No idea. But do it.
Me: Okay. I'm doing it. I'm gonna step the crap out of that stepmill.

Here are my stats:

Time: 60:00
Calories: 491.1 (according to the machine, no HR monitor)
Floors: 172
Average Pace: 46 steps/min

I'm off to Pittsburgh. Probably won't be blogging, but still not sure. I may set up some scheduled posts like last time.

I am not asking Devon for workouts. I will do what I feel like doing and see what that looks like as it unfolds.

Just Call Me Crankypants

I am a crankypants today! I did NOT want to lift. I wanted to go home and curl into a ball and sleep. I have no idea why but I am EXHAUSTED. Sleep sounded wonderful. So what was the problem? Well, there were several:

1) I hadn't lifted since Tuesday. The rock climbing was a sub for lifting on Thursday...but not the same;
2) I've been eating like crud, needed to check in at the gym; and
3) Planned on hooking up with Holly Holly at some point and lifting then catching up since she's been gone for TWO WEEKS!!!

So I went. And lifted. All crankypants. I went early, like 3:30 pm so the gym was not crowded, HOWEVER, EVERY machine I needed was used. The entire time. If it were busy and that happened I'd probably shrug it off, but it wasn't busy!!! And crankypants was all grouchy. But I got it done in a random order (except the planks--because crankypants did not *feel* like doing them and apparently crankypants like to talk about herself in the third person).

The lifting:

Squat Press x 3s x 10r @ 270-300lbs (300 lbs)
Seated Leg Curls x 3s x 10r @ 90-100lbs (100 lbs)
Seated Rows x 3s x 10r @ 50-60lbs (60 lbs)
Flat DB Press x 3s x 10r @ 25-30lbs (25 lb DBs)
Lat Pulldowns x 3s x 10r @ 50-60lbs (60 lbs)
Standing BB Shoulder Press x 3s x 10r @ 40-50lbs (50 lb BB)
Seated Machine Triceps Extension x 3s x 10r @ 50-60lbs (50 lbs)
Standing BB Cable Curls x 3s x 10r @ 27.5-37.5lbs (32.5 lbs; I did the first 8 at 37.5 lbs but it was too heavy)
Plank x 3s x 10r @ 5 second hold (None. I didn't want to.)

Next workout: tomorrow. Either rock climbing or cardio. Still deciding...

International 8 Mile Run

I think 8 miles may be my preferred distance. It's a fairly easy distance for me (I cannot believe I just wrote that...it's crazy how far I have come in a year). I feel good after I run it.

Anyways. Today I ran with Simon the Brit. STB is an excellent running partner. He can run fast, but dialed it back to do my slow, slow pace. I originally set out to see how 13 miles felt. STB had to go 18 for his training plan. When we completed the 8 mile loop, Simon was going to pick up his pace for the second loop. I thought about running 5 miles by myself. Then decided to call it a day. :)

The stats:

Time: 1:35:48
Distance: 8.05 miles
Calories Burned: 1013
Average Pace: 11:54 min/mile
Average HR: 169

Next workout: lifting tomorrow???