Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Training Motivation

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all photos via Lululemon

I love Lululemon. I know there was some sort of issue about some of their pants being see-through, but last I heard no one really complained (at least I wouldn't imagine any guys did). Either way, I've never really had any problems with their products so I'll keep purchasing until something comes up. Speaking of things of theirs I have: wunder under pants, running pants, running crops, running skirt, a gym bag, vinyasa scarf, long sleeve running top, a couple tanks, hoodie, and headband. The only things that I don't really like or use is the gym bag and the headband. I go to the gym across the street from my apartment so I just really don't have to use a gym bag and the headband won't stay on my head. (I blame the weird shape of my dome rather than the band, though.) But I mean, how cute is all their stuff? I love it! And it just gives me that little push of excitement enabling me to get out the door for my workout.

[Not so] Random Gripe of the Day: People who constantly wear workout gear out but never workout. Stop it. You're not fooling anyone. (Unless they're just yoga pants. Those are just the bee's knees in comfort so I don't blame you.)

Truth be told, I've attempted a life revamp since returning to school. I am most certainly not where I want to be as far as physical appearances and overall athleticism, and I haven't been for quite some time. I was always athletic in high school and continued participating in at least some sports throughout college (mostly tennis). In 2008 (I can't believe how long it's been), I ran my first race–a half-marathon–and it was glorious. One of the best things I've ever done simply because it was always a goal I thought unattainable. I finished without any walking and I couldn't have been happier. However, I've been on a slight but constant downslope since then. Work presented itself as an all too convenient excuse to skip workouts and then school took over where work left off. I'm sure you've all been there and, if not, have heard it all before.

I would often reminisce about the horrible training program I went through in order to get in shape for the half. It was horrible and incredibly restrictive but I felt great and that feeling out-shined the struggle that came with eating 1200-1500 calories a day and logging at least five two-hour workouts every week. Not to mention I saved useless calories by never, ever drinking alcohol (or anything else with calories except smoothies for that matter). Strangely, I wanted to get back to that, but motivation was seriously lacking. Wishing for it just wasn't enough. So, when I came back to school I decided it was a perfect check point to just make myself start up again. C'mon, Christine. Don't be a bitch. My mantra that gets me going. 

Despite my food posts, I'm actually very conscious of what I eat. I try to consume as many fruits and vegetables as possible, only whole wheat when eating grains, lean meat, yogurt, nonfat milk or unsweetened almond milk, black coffee, tea, and tons of water. I've been consistent with this despite the occasional cheat meals (today, it was pizza) or cup of Velveeta mac and cheese (180 calories and SO good!). 

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Speaking of, I often follow up my runs with a smoothie. Smoothies could possibly be my favorite breakfast for after workouts. They're refreshing, surprisingly filling, and really REALLY easy to put together. And quick! This one has frozen blueberries, banana, nonfat milk, chia seeds, and wheat germ. Damn, I just realized I forgot to add shredded, unsweetened coconut...

I've also been much better about workouts and ran my first 5K a couple weeks ago. I've been pretty consistent with workouts as of late, that is when lack of sleep and tons of school work haven't gotten completely in the way.

Here's to lots of workouts, feeling great, and looking super cute in Lululemon!