Health Report: Training

If you read my 27 before 28 post then you may remember that one of my items is to train for a 5k. Our local animal rescue {which I volunteer with} hosts one in April, so I’m tentatively aiming for that. It seems like an attainable goal, but competition in any form make me nervous, so I’m not sure I’ll actually do it.  I’ve always wanted to start jogging/running, so I am training for it regardless! I started last week and I thought I’d share my new workout plan with you. I’m using the 5k Your Way Rookie Running Training Program from SparkPeople.com and I just sort of tweaked it a bit to fit my schedule. 

Here's my weekly schedule.  I've stuck with it for the most part so far. I've gotten in my 3 5k training days anyway!

And here's the details on my 5k training workouts.  This is the program created by SparkPeople.com. I just created the fun graphic. :P

Health Report: Workout DVDs

I am sad to report that I’m not doing the greatest on my healthy eating and exercise. It’s so hard this time of year, but that’s no excuse. I used to go to the gym regularly, but I fell out of that habit and now just don’t really enjoy it. I do have a few at home DVDs that I really enjoy using, but I have to do just that...USE THEM! I am starting to get better about though, so here are a few of my favorites and one recommended to me by a good friend [who dropped 50lbs!].

10 Minute Solution: Pilates
I’ve had this dvd for a couple years and it continues to be tough[probably because I never stick with it]. Truth: Pilates is not easy, especially if you aren't in shape! What I love about this dvd is that there are 5 separate 10 minute workouts that target specific areas. It’s perfect for a busy schedule. The dvd also gives you the option to choose 3 to play consecutively, so that you then have a 30 minute workout. It’s pretty fast paced, but I think a beginner could still follow along.

Jillian Michael’s 6 week Six Pack
Now this is one that kicks your ass. Jillian Michaels is tough, but she produces results. I can’t say for sure if the title of this dvd is true, because I haven’t stuck with it that long. However, I think it could be true, because this dvd works you to your limit. The first couple times I went through it I couldn’t quite keep up and there were a couple moves that continue to be very tough for me. I would say this is not for beginners. You should have some familiarity with work out dvds before you even think of picking up this bad boy. I really plan on keeping up with this one, but doing the same dvd everyday bores the heck out of me, so I will often play music over the dvd after I have a grip on the moves. Just a friendly tip for you! :)

Dance Fitness for Beginners with MaDonna Grimes: African Beat - Latin Heat
I haven’t used this dvd as much, but it’s fun. The title says beginners, but I might say it’s more suited for advanced beginners or intermediates. I followed along with little trouble, but I have a pretty strong history in dance. The other two dvds I listed incorporate strength training, whereas this is just cardio. Which is fine, I like to do this one when my muscles are sore or if I just feel like a pick me up! If you don’t like working out or you think it’s boring this would be a good dvd for you!

Health Report: Snacking!

For me, one of the hardest parts about eating healthy is my snacking! I have the bad habit of snacking at work and it’s usually not the healthiest food. A lot of the time I buy those 90 or 100 calorie granola/cereal bars. They aren’t horrible for you and can be a good source of fiber [if you buy the fiber ones], but I get tired of them. Plus, I have a really hard time getting enough veggie and fruit servings in though out the day. Which is not because I don’t like them, I love fruits and veggies! I think I just tend to forget to add them to my meal. Even when I do have some veggies with dinner I’m still not getting enough for my daily serving. In light of this, I think I’m going to try to plan my snacks ahead and include more veggies and fruits!

Here are a few of my ideas!

Fruit Smoothies

Source: laceyinloveblog.blogspot.com via Kassie on Pinterest

I’ve already done this actually! Check out this ladies blog for directions on prepping your own smoothie baggies!

Celery & Peanut Butter

Source: keepyourdietreal.com via Kristy on Pinterest

Be sure to use low fat PB!

Broccoli & Baby Carrots with Light Ranch

Source: mandeefofandee.blogspot.com via Patricia on Pinterest

Really, this could be any veggies with ranch, soooo good!

Apple & Orange Slices

Source: williams-sonoma.com via Brandy on Pinterest

Actually, any fruit by itself us great...bananas, strawberries, grapes, and kiwi! You could also mix in some almonds with the fruit for something a bit different.

What are your favorite healthy snacks?