Motivation continued & Moves of the week

I was thinking about what I wanted to post about tonight and decided that I want to continue to talk about motivation.  I think it's important.  Being motivated not only to work out and eat healthy, but also, in every aspect of life.  

Last week, I talked about the marathon and how just watching it should be motivation enough to get a fitness program started.  The week before that I talked about my first boxing class and how it was new and frankly, awesome. I'm still super motivated by that class... getting stronger, less sore, and perfecting my form is a constant goal... plus - it's so fun! This week, I want to discuss where to find the motivation needed to hit your own personal goals. 

I have to be honest... unless someone has an extreme life situation... I really don't like hearing people say "well I just can't do that" or "well I'm just not good at that".  Don't get me wrong... I'm not talking about running a marathon or climbing a mountain.  I'm talking about people who truly don't think they have the power to work out, eat healthIER, complete a daunting task at work, run a 5k, bake a cake, paint a room... things like that. I always just want to (or do) say WHY?! Try it for crying out loud!! Andddd here I am finally getting to my point... I hope it translates... I think sometimes the best place to look for motivation is in the people that you already know.

You know those people... the people you look up to and admire, have it all together, seem to be doing everything that you wish or hope you could or want to do.  It doesn't necessarily have to be a famous person (although that can work to) but we all have people in our lives that motivate us in some form or another.  I have colleagues that I look up to at work... their organization and creativity.  I have friends and acquaintances that seem to be super athletes... they are just good at everything.  Others have the amazing ability to always look perfectly put-together. Here's the thing, instead of getting discouraged by these people... I look up to them. Try to figure them out... what do they do that allows them to be so put together, organized, fit, etc.  You know these people - are you asking them how they do it? I do it all the time, I always have.  You won't know if you don't ask! :-)  There's always a way to become better.  I will never stop working hard at being a good friend, family member, athlete, employee, boss, and overall productive person. 

If you don't know people like this... start surrounding yourself with people that do motivate you.  Join a class, run a race, join a group/club, etc.  And I'm going to let you in on a couple of secrets on the workout side that I hope gives you an extra push to get movin'!

1. Group Exercise Classes - Don't be nervous that you're going to look "stupid".  No athlete that is working out next to you is going to make fun of you or talk about you... in fact, they'll probably try to help you.  (if you do find someone is mean - they are insecure - ignore them - seriously)

2. Running a Race - Afraid you're going to come in last? You're not.  Runners come in all different shapes, sizes and speeds.  I've never known anyone to come in last and if you do come in last - so what - you did it! Don't believe me? Go find a local race this weekend and watch it. (that again, should be motivation enough)

3. Not sure how to Lift properly? - Ask any of the employees at the gym... They'll show you a couple moves and you won't hurt yourself with poor form! Or ask a friend who does know how - they WILL show you.

Where did this all come from?  I read an article a long time ago that discussed the best forms of motivation and, in a nutshell, it said that individuals who look up to or find out how those who motivate them do it all... have the most success.  Makes sense, right? That's why there's coaches, teachers, trainers, tutors, bosses, etc. etc. That article always stuck with me.

Movinggg onnn... I promised a few weeks ago that I'd start providing my favorite moves. I already discussed planks, criss-cross, and squats.

This time: Lunges, Push-ups (yesss push-ups), & Burpees!

All three of the above are killer for your whole body.  

Lunges are amazzzing for the legs. Keep the same form in mind as you do for squats (don't let the knee extend beyond the foot, drop down and push through the heels).  

Push ups work you whole body - yes they kill but they work!  Not just your chest, but triceps, delts, and even your core.

Burpees work everything! And they are a cardio blast - try 10 a day and start to stack on more when you get stronger... I love burpees - call me crazy.

Jump up, squat down, jump out, in and up!

Motivation for the week! Have an awesome one!

Need a little motivation? Marathoners, thank you.

I love the Boston Marathon.  I love runners, in general.   I have never felt more emotional watching a race/marathon than I did at the 25.5 mark during yesterday's Boston Marathon.    As I watched and cheered on each racer that went by, I knew that they all have a story.  Some ran for their own personal goals.  Some for the pure competitiveness of the sport.  Others for a charity that is near and dear to their heart.  More for specific individuals who are directly benefiting from the money raised for this race.  The determination and dedication in their eyes was incredible.  

I saw a woman with "F 80+" on the back of her shirt... SERIOUSLY?  80 years old and running probably her 20th marathon... who knows, but you know what, she looked so strong... a steady stride almost at the finish line.  I saw another man holding his daughter's hand.  Then, I saw two of my friends go by and I basically lost it.  

It's incredible, really.  What was and is more incredible (and, I think, why I was more emotional than ever) is that these runners completed this task in extreme heat.  If you are a runner, you already know that running three miles in 80+ degree weather is no small task.  These runners went 26.2 miles in 80+ degree weather.  

If you are sitting here today with any goal in mind such as... changing up your diet to be healthier, going after your first 5k race, starting a group exercise class, hiking up a mountain, giving up dessert for a week, starting at the gym, increasing the speed on the treadmill for a full 5 minutes, whatever it is... think of these individuals.  The determination and will power to train for months, stay healthy and then complete (or come close to completing) 26.2 miles in extreme heat should be motivation enough.  You can skip dessert tonight, go faster for 5 minutes, start a running program, eat clean for a week, go to the gym, etc etc etc.  

Is that not motivation enough?  Well what about this... many of these runners ran for a charity or an individual benefiting from a charity and THAT was their motivation. Not weight loss, not competition ... they did it because they knew that their daughter, son, mother, father, friend, or a child or individual in need was directly benefiting from their hard work. Children with type 1 diabetes who have been back and forth to treatments for years.  Mothers, aunts, fathers, cousins, friends who have battled cancer.  I could go on and on.  

My point is... there is nothing you cannot do if you have the will power (not to get too deep) but, if you have a goal in mind...  Think of these runners, remind yourself of their accomplishments. (Or, think of ANYONE who has accomplished a huge goal that took a ton of determination and will power. It doesn't necessarily have to be a runner or an athlete. ((that's just my best example for the day ;))

Ok that's all I have on that subject.  In lighter news... I made a pretty good, healthy, green salad tonight. Here's the recipe and photo:

- Arugula

- Green beans 

- 1/2 cup chickpeas

- Tomato

- Tbs of pumpkin seeds

- Tbs of crumbled feta

Mix and dress with:

Lemon juice, 1/2 tbs of extra virgin olive oil, tsp of apple cider vinegar (fat burner)

Have an awesome week!

Try something new...

Yesterday, I went to a boxing gym in Southie with my best friend.  I've boxed a little bit in the past, but, it's been a while.  I've been looking forward to checking out this gym for a while. Well, let me just tell you - it was awesome!  I've always enjoyed boxing workouts and  my favorite class to teach is cardio kickboxing.  I'm not sure why it took me so long to check this place out, but, I'm so glad I finally went.  We started out jump roping then moved on to boxing circuits with a heavy bag alternating shadow boxing and strength moves.  We then moved on to free weights (ah, at this point I had to grab lighter weights than I usually use).  Then, we finished with medicine ball partner work. Then, see ya later - go stretch when you get home. 60 minutes of intense cardio and strength work - I'm hooked.  

My friend and I are both pretty sore today... which is what leads me to my point with this post.  When is the last time you challenged yourself? Not only is it important to switch up your workouts on a regular basis, but, it's also important to really challenge yourself every once in a while... even once a week.  First, it's great for your body (obviously). I lift, run, plyo-jump on a regular basis, but the last time I hit a heavy bag? Ah, it's probably been a year... even my forearms hurt today! Next, it's good for your self esteem.  You'll be surprised at what you can do -  don't ever assume that you cannot do something... be confident and try it.  Third, it's also healthy for the brain. Yes, challenging your body also challenges your mind and keeps you sharp.

There are so many cost free ways to try a new, exciting powerful workout without spending extra cash.  Here are some ideas:

1) Check out a new gym class... most offer a free trial

2) Try a class at a local dance studio... again, most offer a free trial

3) Drive to the hilliest part of town and go for a run and hit every hill you can find.  Sprint up each hill.  Tell me you don't feel that the next day.

4) Go to a track and do sprints, run up and down the stadium. Do sprints on the field.

5) Try a crossfit workout

6) Ask for a trial with a personal trainer at a gym - most gyms will give you a free first trial (this will also give you ideas for workouts and help improve form)

7) Go to the beach and run on the sand

8) Try a boxing gym! ;)

9) Sign up for for a Heat Management race (spartan races, mud runs, etc)  They are so fun - I did one back in the fall with my best friend (Lucky me that I have a friend who's down for any challenge)

10) Pick up some new equipment at a store (even "5 Below" has kettle bells, medicine balls, etc) and create a circuit with a friend.

Obviously it will cost money if you sign up, but, won't it be worth it? I'm joining this gym in southie - it rocks.

Onto the recipe of the day...

This is super fast, healthy, and delicious!

Need:

- 1/3 Avocado

- 1 1/2 Tomatoes

- 1 Chicken breast (or two tenderloins)

- 3 mini mozzarella balls (ciligiene)

- Olive oil

- Juice from 1 half lemon (TIP: I always have a lemon cut into wedges and ready to go. I buy a bag a week and always have the slices ready for my water and for cooking)

- Garlic

- Salt, crushed red pepper, parsley flake, FRESH basil

First, pound the chicken thin in between two pieces of parchment paper or saran wrap.  Spray or drizzle with olive oil and coat with garlic, crushed red pepper, salt, and parsley.  

Throw it on a grill or saute pan (it will cook very fast because it is so thin). Then flip to cook the other side.

While this is happening... Chop tomatoes, avocado, mozzarella, and basil and put in a bowl.  Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, pinch of salt and crushed red pepper. Mix it up.

After that, put the chicken on a plate and in a small bowl put a squeeze of lemon, tsp of olive oil, tsp of parmesan, and minced basil... mix and spread on chicken (pesto flavor without busting out the cuisinart food processor.

Lastly, pour the mixture over the chicken, serve & eat!

Hope you all have a great week!

Busy girl, Slim.

Ah, I have been looking forward to writing this post (and my friends have been asking me for it.... especially lately (must be the Spring air!;).  You all know by now that I pull off living a healthy lifestyle all while maintaining a busy schedule at work and enjoying my weekends to the fullest.  I don't believe in giving up good times with good people in order to save a couple calories... c'monnn, that is no fun!  So, how is it all possible?  Allow me to let you in on my secrets.  Weekend warriors, workaholics, party girls (boys), and soccer/football/bball/etc parents - this is for you!

First, weekday lunches/dinner (from home or at the workplace).  Don't indulge here. I don't find it to be worth it.  Monday - Thursday afternoon is the time to be the healthiest.  Super, super healthy. Weekends should be saved for indulgences.  Pack a lunch on regular days.  Don't have time to pack a sandwich or salad? Ya, me either.  Here are some of my 'quick' options:
- Plain Greek yogurt
- Frozen berries
- Apples
- Oatmeal
- Bananas
- Lara Bars
- String cheese
- PBJ (all natural PB!)
- Almonds
- Pecans
- English muffins
- Ezekiel toast
- Walnuts
- Carrots/celery w/ hummus
(I pretty much eat a plain greek yogurt with berries, a slice of ezekiel bread, apple, and either a mini lara bar or another piece of fruit, every day) If you must eat on the fly - check out my "Leaving on a jet plane" post. http://bit.ly/HepqUi


... Anddd if you have to go out for lunch, stick with lean proteins, vegetables.  Look for words like "grilled, baked".  For lunch, a lean salad with light dressing and minimal toppings is the way to go... for dinner... here are some options:
- Grilled fish 
- Caprese salad with a shrimp cocktail
- Baked potato sans extras with a grilled lean protein
- Broth based soups (not creamy)
- Petite filet with salad or steamed vegetables
- Grilled chicken with same sides as listed above
- Sushi - steer away from tempura, and if you get a roll, get some edamame, seaweed salad and/or some sashimi to balance it out.
- Grilled fish tacos (soft shell)
Tips: Start out with a simple salad and drink a tall glass of water before the food comes.  Only eat one piece of bread or roll.  Stay away from anything creamy, fried, candied, or breaded.  Go for steamed, grilled, baked.  Remember, just two drinks and try to stay away from dessert during the week.


Drinks/Apps out with friends (during the week)
- Limit to two drinks, Vodka/soda or red wine.  Stay away from any multiple ingredient, specialty drinks.  They are usually loaded with calories.  If you must, have one, then switch to something lighter.
- Appetizers - I always split apps with my friends.  Choose wisely.  Pick something lean or light as an option in addition to whatever other (tastier) app that you get. Balance! (yes, I am a boneless buffalo wing connoisseur and I will never give that up). 
Ideas:
- Hummus platter with baked pita chips and veggies (a lot of places have this now)
- Mussels
- Tuna sashimi
- Shrimp cocktail
- Grilled anything
- Satay skewers (be careful of the sauces - dip lightly)
- Caprese salad
- Oysters
- Raw platter
- Antipasto
- Salad/pizza combo (bad pizza - one slice, healthier, grilled pizza - two slices)
(sorry if you don't like seafood - I didn't leave you with much ;)
Tips: Try to eat more of the healthier options, and only indulge a little in the fried stuff and dips.  You know you can't avoid ordering that stuff.  Control yourself when it's in front of you! **Be mindful**


Weekends
It's ok to be a little more indulgent on the weekends.  Follow the same tips from above, BUT, don't give up at every meal.  For example, you had too many bevy's then got late night pizza... don't go out for a gigantic brunch the next day. Or, you had an amazing meal at your favorite restaurant and then want waffles in the am - ah, no. Pick one.


How to deal with a few too many bad decisions?
a) don't beat yourself up
b) well, how bad? haha justtt kidddinggg
c) do this: drink lemon water all day the next day, rest, try to get some sort of exercise in late the next day, down your vitamins, especially b12, drink more lemon water, go to bed super early Sunday night (if possible), drink more lemon water, eat a super healthy lunch/dinner - vegetables, lean proteins, complex carbs, you know the drill. Drink more water.  


Last but not least... if you live this lifestyle and plan to stay healthy, you must work out.  Even if you follow all of these tips, you are likely still consuming more than you should.  I work out 5-7 days a week.  I'm not saying you should be that extreme, BUT, try my 15 minute workout rule. Get in AT LEAST 15 minutes of solid cardio, especially on warrior days.

Tip: either go for a 15 minute run. OR DO THIS:
Jumping jacks, squats, squat jumps, criss cross, burpees, lunges, squats, jumping jacks, burpees.  If you only work out for 15 minutes - you should be out of breath. You will feel so much better if you do this AND, maybe you'll make it 20 or 25 mins :-)


That's what I got, my friends!  It's possible to do it all... just be mindful, make smart decisions, and work out. Life is meant to be lived and enjoyed.  Have a great week!