Not Quite A Half Marathon

One of my goals for the year was to complete a half-marathon. I was all signed up for the Red White and Boom half-marathon on July 4 in Minneapolis.


The weather leading up to the event was quite hot - upper 90's and triple digits with heat indexes to 115 and higher. The event organizers made the decision to  shorten the event to 5 miles rather than risk health issues of the runners. At first I was very disappointed because I had been training and really wanted to knock this off my bucket list. As the week progressed and I tried running outside, I began to come to terms with the decision.
I went to pick up my packet the night before, and was happy to learn that at random, every bib number ending in a 7 would win a free pair of Fit Sox! Yay!

All prepped and ready for the race, I headed to bed around 9:00 as I needed to get up at 4:30. Needless to say, it was hot, and because of being the 4th of July fireworks were going off around the neighborhood all night. I fell asleep sometime after 12:30.

I awoke at 4:30, and checked the temperature. Here is what I saw:

What? 4:30 am and it's already 81 degrees? And to top it off, I looked out my window and learned that it had rained as the streets were wet. That sure wouldn't help the humidity at all! Time for a cold shower and I got ready... boy, I looked tired!

Off to the race! As we were waiting in line to start, I was already sweating. I could see those around me with sweat dripping off their faces already. The horn sounded, and we were off.  I kept a decent pace for the heat, but it was still quite difficult. I couldn't have properly prepared for these conditions. Around mile 4 I was getting tired, but kept plugging away. I crossed the finish line at 54:01.  Clearly not my best time, but I didn't want to go out so hard to put my health at risk in the heat.

Here I am after cooling off a bit after the race - the race ended by running across this Stone Arch bridge.

So although I didn't get to run the full half marathon, I did complete another race which is always a good experience. On Friday this week, I learned from a co-worker that I was on the NBC Nightly News! Just a quick clip of me walking by, but none the less, I'll take that one second of fame!  Don't blink or you'll miss me!

Click here to watch the news clip.

Measurements: Month Seven

So here we go, another month has passed and it's time for my measurements and pictures!  As I go each week, changes are less noticeable as there just isn't as much to lose. Overall I'm pleased with how training is going. I feel stronger, and I'm looking good.  I purchased my first fitted shirts this week at Express, and also fit into their slim fit pants and jeans!  Good feelings for sure.


Here's the results for the month (total change listed):


Weight:  222 (lost 59 pounds)
Neck: 17.5" (lost 2")
Right arm: 13.5" (lost 2")
Left arm: 13.5" (lost 2")
Chest:  46" (lost 5")
Waist:  42.75" (lost 8.75")
Hips:  42" (lost 5")
Right thigh:  24.25" (lost 4.75")
Left thigh:  24.25" (lost 4.25")


Here are my pics for this month:

And here's this month's random pose picture:

So there you have it.  Off to another month of training!  Just a few days and I'll be competing in the Red White and Boom Half Marathon on July 4!  

A goal accomplished!

It's been a long time since I've written because I've been so busy training, so this post it long overdue!

When I started my journey, one of my only goals was to complete a 10k run. At the time I thought that would be a stretch goal because I couldn't even run 30 seconds.  But, I knew that with a little determination, and some luck not getting hurt, I could do it... (maybe)

During my training, I've already run up to 11 miles so completing the 6.2 miles doing the Bellin Run shouldn't be too hard. I was prepared.  What I wasn't prepared for was the emotion that would follow once I crossed the finish line. More on that in a moment. 

It was a warm June morning and we were getting ready for our run!  Nikki and I had a light breakfast and headed over to Heidi's house to meet her, Mom, and Amber. Mom headed to Nikki's sister's house to watch the race and Nikki, Amber, Heidi, and I walked to the park to join the race preparation.

Amber and I did some light warm-up jogging and then I headed off to corral 4 while they headed for number 7.  While waiting for the race start, they played the national anthem - a simple saxophone version. I can be a very emotional person when it comes to stuff like that, so I did tear up just a bit. I tried to focus on the run rather than the emotion of it.

The race soon started - 14 minutes after the start of the race, I finally crossed the start line.  There were nearly 18,000 people in the race so it took some time for me to get there, and even longer for the girls.  By the time I crossed the start - the elite runners were already at mile 3.  By the time the girls crossed, the first place woman crossed the finish line!

I had a preset goal in mind for my first mile. I wanted to keep to this pace so I didn't go out too fast in the excitement of the event.  I was able to keep my pace quite well, but quickly learned that some others that had signed up to run faster than me already started walking with their children at 1/4 mile into the race.  I had to weave in and out which seemed to slow my overall speed and time (I had hoped for a personal best)

The first water stop arrived at mile 2 and I learned that running with water and trying to drink it at the same time doesn't go so well. I managed to take my GU energy gel with some water and dumped a cup over my head. I headed down toward mile 3 and came across Mom and Nikki's family cheering us on.  I knew where they would be so I tried to get their attention, but they didn't see me until I was right there and then gone. 

The wonderful people of Green Bay cheered us on, played music, rang their cow bells, and sprayed us with hoses and sprinklers to keep us cool. That was wonderful and much needed! As I headed into mile 5 - which was my hardest mile because it was in direct sunlight and I was starting to get tired, I thought of walking but I looked at my wrist and saw the Team In Training bracelet, which reminded me not to give up. I was no running for a cure!

Here's a picture of me running during mile 5, taken by their event photographers that the bring in.  I didn't know they were right there or I would have focused on my form and facial expression!

Notice how wet I am from all of the hoses and sprinklers! As I came into the final stretch, back in Heidi's neighborhood, the crowds were louder and they really helped pull me through faster and stronger at the end of the run. As I crossed that finish line and was walking through the cool-down area grabbing water and food, it hit me. I had just achieved my goal, something just a few months ago I thought wouldn't be possible, that it would just be another goal I set and would never finish. To actually complete it felt wonderful. I started thinking about all of the changes I've made in the past 6 months. The knee and shin pain, the good days and bad days training, the dietary changes, and the 50 pounds I've lost. It hit me, I did it. I walked back to Heidi's house as I didn't really feel like breaking out in public. I grabbed my water, sat on the porch and let it out. Nearly a lifetime of weight struggles, yo-yo fad dieting, body image struggles, and at times unhappiness came pouring out in the form of tears running down my cheeks. 

I had done it. I just overcame all of my previous struggles, and ripped that demon off my back in just 1 hour 3 minutes and 6.2 miles on a beautiful but warm Saturday morning. What an amazing feeling. I sat there and reflected on what this meant to me and soaked in the feeling of accomplishment until Amber arrived about an hour later.  

An amazing feeling indeed! (minus my nearly bloody nipples - lesson learned for next time) 

Not too much time to savor this moment, as I have had to continue my training for the 1/2 marathon on July 4th! (now, just a few days away because it took me so long to write about this.)

Tomorrow is my monthly weigh-in.  Tune in for an updated measurement and picture post!

Measurements: Month Six

Wow, how time flies when you're having fun!  Hard to believe it's been six months already!  Training is coming along well, and I have my first run this next weekend... the Bellin Run 10k.  Hard to believe that was my original goal when I started, and I thought it would be near impossible to finish it. I'm scheduled to run the Red White and Boom half marathon one month from tomorrow, then of course the Dublin Marathon in October!  Busy months and weeks lie ahead!


Here's the measurements for month 6 - midway through my journey:


Weight: 227 (lost 54 lbs lost 6.5 lbs from last month)
Neck: 18" (lost 1.5" no change from last month)
R and L Arm: 14" (lost 1" and 1.25" no change from last month)
Chest: 46" (lost 3.5" gained .5" from last month)
Waist: 43" (lost 6.5" no change from last month)
Hips: 42" (lost 4.5" no change from last month)
R and L Thigh: 24.75" (lost 3.75" and 3.75" no change from last month)


As you can see, there wasn't much change in my measurements this month. I attribute that to my body adapting to all of this training, and not doing quite as much cardio work as I have in the past. I'm on a set training schedule for the marathon, and I want to stick with that. I do need to find a way to add another day of cross-traininig in there ... like some biking or something.  


Here's my pics:

And now for this month's silly pose picture:

Ok, I'm off to go clean the house now.  I'm having a hard time finding time to keep up with that as I have some sort of training each night of the week. On a refreshing note, I did find time to lay out in the sun yesterday and work on my tan, so I can avoid that farmer tan look on my legs from my socks, and from my shirt too.

Have a good week!

Project: 365 Six Month Update

Hard to believe it's been 6 months since my birthday, and I'm halfway through my year long transformation project.  Much has changed in this 6 months, that's for sure.  I missed posting my 6 month pic update...so here it is!

First team training for the marathon!

It was a busy week coming off of a very relaxing and wonderful stay-cation last week. The week went super quick!
I was busy getting my fundraising letters (the first 101 anyway) ready to be sent out. That took about 3 hours actually signing the letters, folding, putting them in the envelopes, addressing them. I've since started my second 100, and hope to have them finalized this weekend.
On Wednesday night, I went to the Team In Training kick-off party at one of the local universities.  There were probably over 100 participants there - some of them couldn't make it.  I met my mentor Randall, and his step daughter Kelly who is also a mentor. I also met one member of the Dublin team - Ryan. It's his first marathon as well, but he's done quite a few half marathons, in fact he is doing one today which is why he couldn't make our first training session.  The kick off party was very inspirational. Our honorary team captain was there - a 4 or 5 year old little girl who was diagnosed with a form of leukemia in September. She's been through treatment, and is working through recovery. She was so full of life, running around, giggling, laughing, and making people smile. Her mother spoke about the experience, and how The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) has helped her financially, as well as emotionally. It really was an inspirational night.
We posed for team pictures, and had a number of workshops about fundraising, the event, and met a few of our business partners where we can get discounts (my favorite store - Run 'n Fun is one of them!) Needless to say, I've already used that 20% off discount this week and bought a new pair of running shorts.  I used them today for the first time, and they worked great.  They're a bit shorter than what I had been using, and they are lighter and more airy as well.


After 2 tough workouts with my trainer Eric this week (we did a lot of leg work) and I even did "tire flips" with a big tractor tire out in the parking lot!  So, my legs were a bit tight this morning. I didn't get any running in this week with everything that was going on.  
We were scheduled to meet at 7:15 at Lake Calhoun in Minneapolis. Now, I wasn't really excited about this early start time, but I did it.  I met up with the team, we went through some housekeeping items, then we were off.  The path was pre-marked for a 1.6 mile run along Lake Calhoun to Lake Harriet.  My mentor Randall ran with me, and we led the pack of the middle group (seemed like people of different speeds end up in packs). He was great, not pushing me, but always asking how I was doing, and if the pace was ok.  We ended up doing a 9:49 pace for the first 1.6 miles.  When we got to Lake Harriet, we all did a boot camp for 30 minutes.  We were doing lunges, squats, sit ups, planks, knee-ups while jogging in a circle, jumping jacks, and some other sort of jump, I think it was called a power jump, I can't remember.
After bootcamp, we started the run back to Lake Calhoun.  I think we were all a bit tired after that bootcamp, but I found my way to a group of girls that were running a good pace for me. 6 people beat us back, we were in the 2nd group of 6 or 7, then the others followed in as they finished.  
They had water and gatorade at both points today, and one of the mentors made banana bread (which I didn't eat because of the eggs and milk).  We talked for a bit and got to know each other better, then slowly started filtering out.
All-in-all, it was a good experience.  We split into 2 groups on Wednesday (east and west, I'm in East Metro). I like my coach Jen, and Randall is a good guy too. Looking forward to what the summer will bring!


I've had energy after that, so I mowed the lawn, had lunch, went and bought flowers and planted them in the plants outside.  I feel like I got so much done already today!  Maybe a bit of a nap is in order though, just for fun! :)


Have a great day!

First running pic

I wrote my fundraising letter for the marathon the other day, and I wanted to include a picture of Jon (who I mention in the letter) and I running.
We went to the community center trails, where I've put on a number of miles on that pavement this year!  We snapped a few pics while running, and here you have it... my very first running pic!

A copy of this picture can also be seen on my fundraising page by clicking HERE.

Cheers, it's time to start fundraising!


Oh, on a side note (before taking these pics) I ran my best 10k time so far - 1:07.48.  I was hoping to get to 60 minutes for the 10k on June 9, but now that I've added the Dublin Marathon as my year-end goal, I've been focusing more on distance than speed.  I better start mixing some interval sprints into the mix to help build my speed.

Wind Tunnel

It was a beautiful day for a run today... sunny, warmer than it's been, and no rain! (it's been raining for what seems like a week straight) I'm on vacation from work this week, so I had a nice relaxing morning, then got ready for what I wanted to be a pretty easy 6 miles. I put on my new Team In Training tech shirt, my Garmin watch, and my ipod shuffle and off I went.

The sun felt great! My first 3 miles were clipping right along, at a near 10 minute/mile pace. 
I was nearing 3 miles, and my mind started to play tricks on me, telling me I was tired. (I guess I may have been, because that was my best 3 mile time yet!) I rested on a bench for a bit and soaked in the sun before heading back the remaining 3 miles to get home.  I don't know what it is about this path I took along the river in downtown St Paul, but the last time I ran this path in 2009 I also had a problem.  It was like running into a wind tunnel again. Head on, with what seemed like 30 mph winds right at me. (lesson learned, stay away from this path next time).
I ran mile 4 at an 11 minute pace, then walked the remaining 2 miles home - jogging, walking, jogging, walking etc, into the wind. 
My total time was 1:07.47, which included the walking.  Here's the link to today's run. I felt pretty crappy about this, but when I looked back to the time I ran my first 6.2 miles - my time there was 1:12:14 and I ran that full distance!  That helps put things in perspective.

 

So, today I wasn't at my best. What if I wake up in Dublin on race day and I'm having a bad day there too? I just have to hope I can overcome it!


Another positive thing about today... this is the BEST STUFF EVER! Not kidding! :)

Milestone!

Although this isn't my official weigh-in day, I do step on the scale quite regularly. Today, I hit a milestone.  I'm under 230 pounds! This is significant in many ways, but first, I can't remember a time I was under 230. Second, this puts me at the 50 pound mark for weight loss!  (51.5 actually from where I started).  That feels great!
I feel I still have more to lose, but I'm not sure what my end number will be. I keep reminding myself that the weight was not the primary goal here :)
But it feels good!

Correction: Athlete!

So after I did the 8 mile run I posted that I was now an athlete. Apparently, I was wrong!
You see, I was working with my trainer this morning, it was a pretty tough routine today (and, I have trouble with the 10am workouts for some reason - I think I'm better at night).  Anyway, I was a sweaty, tired mess. I went into the locker room and rested for a while, drinking some more water and sipping on my protein shake. I stood up to put my track pants on, and darted off to the bathroom. I just reached the toilet, opened my mouth, and out it came! I threw up, 3 times!  Lots and lots of liquid.  Boy, that was a tough one. First time I've ever done that.


So, as my sister Kim said today... "Now you're an athlete, welcome to the club!"


I did 11 miles last Sunday... what is in store for this Sunday?  I think I will keep it to a 6 miler, weather permitting.

Shake It Out

So there's this song that I like, that has sort of become my theme song for this journey I'm on.  It's called "Shake it Out" by Florence & The Machine. (video above).  The song and video have nothing to do with what I'm doing really, but I've tailored the meaning to fit my journey.


To me, the song is about facing the demons of your past, realizing the darkest point, then making the changes you need to make. Shaking the devil off your back so to speak.


For me, this devil was my thirst, or hunger for fast food, junk food, bad food, and living a sedentary lifestyle.  Taking the easy way out, and thinking I will do something about it some day. I'm still young, I have plenty of time.  Well, when I turned 36 (if you've been reading this along the way, you will understand my "enlightenment moment") I decided to make that change and address those demons. Head on.  Sure, I've had my ups and downs, my good days, bad days, my triumphs, and my frustrations, but at the end of the day, it's about winning that battle each and every day, and hoping you have more successes than failures.  It's about determination, perseverance, pushing your limits, and adapting to the new reality of this new life I'm creating.


I listen to this song every morning, and every night before bed. It helps me remember where I've been, and where I'm headed.


I am now creating my future, creating a healthier me, and that feels great!

Measurements: Month 5

April seemed to be a tough month for me, at least in the weight loss column. I have to keep my head high though, because there are a few big wins I had this month:

• My lab results came back and I'm healthier than ever!
• I ran 8 miles for the first time!
• I started working with a trainer and I'm building more muscle!

As you'll see in a minute, I didn't lose much weight this month... only 3 pounds. But I need to remember that I'm working with a trainer and building muscle now, and I added a 2nd protein shake to my diet each day to help my body recover from my runs and workouts. I'm convinced that that is making a difference. Also, I didn't get quite as much cardio in previous months due to my knee hurting and trying to take it easy.  Anyway, enough excuses. I need to remember that sometimes the results won't show in a picture or on paper, but they show in how I feel, and how my clothes fit.

Here are the numbers:

• Weight:  233.5 (lost 47.5 lbs)
• Chest: 45.5" (lost 5.5")
• R Arm:  14" (lost 1.5") no change from last month
• L Arm:  14" (lost 1.5") no change from last month
• Waist:  43" (lost 8.5")
• Hips:  42" (lost 5") no change from last month
• R Thigh:  25" (lost 4") no change from last month
• L Thigh:  25" (lost 3.5") no change from last month
• Neck:  18" (lost 1.5")

So there you have it.  Some change, not a lot, but any progress is better than none!

Here are the pics!

I also thought it would be fun this month to give me a reminder that although short term progress may not always seem apparent, adding up a little progress each and every time makes a difference in the long run!  Here's my very first pic, and a "fun" pic I did today to be goofy.  Gotta laugh too, right?!

     

Dublin Countdown

6 month from today is the Dublin Marathon!  In fact, I will have hopefully already finished the run by now.  It starts at 10am there, which will be 4am here. 
I have an informational meeting this Tuesday, where I will hopefully sign up!  (pending approval from the ortho doctor who I see on Monday to get the green light)
Who would have thought 5 months ago I would be writing or thinking of this crazy thing?

I'm off for a run in a bit...although I have a headache and my body feels very tight.  Need to stretch!  No excuses, it's a beautiful day!

I AM AN ATHLETE!

I saw something the other day that said "being an athlete is a state of mind." I completely agree with that, but there also needs to be some sort of physical ability.


Tonight, for the first time in my life, I can call myself an athlete. And I believe it.


I wanted to get in a 6 mile run tonight, as it has been a few weeks since I've done it.  I thought that if I felt good, I would try to stretch it to 7 miles.  I set off on my run with my new Garmin GPS watch and iPod shuffle. The first few miles went well, and I was able to keep a steady pace through those 3 miles.  I hit 4 and I was still feeling good, then 5 miles.  Woo hoo, I felt great, minus all of the swarms of giant killer gnats I kept running into along the river. I guess a little extra protein won't hurt! 


Mile 4-5 had a bit of an incline for part of it, but I was able to make it through without issue, but with a little more focus on the pavement as I was now on city sidewalks and I had to watch for uneven pavement and holes and such.  I hit mile 5 and turned to head up Montreal Ave. As I looked ahead, I could only see an incline the whole way.  Now, I've driven this before and knew it was a hill, but wow, running it uphill for an entire mile...that was tough.  To my credit, not once did I walk. I just slowed my pace a bit and chugged along.  Just when I thought I was to the top, I look again and it became even more steep. No problem!


I finally made it to the top of the hill and was feeling I wanted to stretch this out (I had pre-mapped my route to get an idea, so my planned route would be 7 miles) I wanted to stretch it further!  What? Farther than 8 miles?  Maybe those gnats made me delusional.  I ran around the golf course, then down the hill and I was on the home stretch....but one red light stood in my way.. amazingly the only one I had to deal with the whole time.  Stopping and waiting was a bother, I could feel my legs tighten, and it seemed to take 5 minutes. Looking at the log from my GPS, it really was only about 20 seconds, but still!  Green light, I'm back on, and turn the corner to head home!  I hit 8 miles right in front of my house! I couldn't have planned it any better!


Although I feel amazing right now, and accomplished, I don't think this has really set in yet.  I just accomplished something I thought I would never be able to do.  EVER. I think this will teach me to never doubt myself again. To never not do something for fear of failure. This process is teaching me something about myself and about life each and every day. So rewarding.


Click here to see the details of tonight's run!

Rainy day

I was hoping to get in a decent 4-6 mile run outside yesterday, but it was cold and rainy out so I took it inside to the gym for a cardio only workout.  While stretching, I decided to take what seems to be an obligatory picture of me in the gym mirror.  Here it is:

I like this orange long sleeve running shirt. It's size XL :) and slims me up a bit, or so it seems.  Makes my shoulders look pretty good.  Anyway..

I did a 60 minute cardio on the treadmill and burned 1135 calories.  Felt great, and I was so sweaty.  The gym will be closed this next week for annual maintenance, so I'll need to be sure to get some good workouts in elsewhere. My trainer is on vacation, so I won't get to work weights until next Saturday.  Maybe lots of pushups, crunches, and what not?

Have a good week! 

Project 365: 5 month update

Today marks 5 months since my birthday, and 5 months since I started Project: 365.  I've missed plenty of pictures along the way, but it's still been fun. I sit and look at these pics each day, ok, most days and I know I've lost weight and look differently, but sometimes I just wish I was through this process and saw the final result, and looked how I feel I want/should look.  I guess they don't call it a process and lifestyle change because it's easy!  Anyway, here's the pics...
The top is from Nov 19 and the bottom pic is from tonight, April 19.

Lab Results!

My lab results are in from my blood test yesterday, and the news is good!
Let me just cut right to the chase:


Starting/Current

• Total Cholesterol: 194/147 (47 point improvement)
• HDL Cholesterol: 52/54 (2 point improvement)
• LDL Cholesterol: 96/67 (29 point improvement)
• Triglycerides:  233/131 (102 point improvement)

Wow, what a difference exercise and diet make in these results!  All are in the good/normal range now.  That's pretty exciting, and as I've read, one of the benefits of a vegan diet.

The results also confirmed I'm getting enough of all of the other nutrients to remain in the normal range.  And as for protein, the results show that's actually increased as well, so we can put that myth to bed!

I promised myself tonight, that this week I will break through this plateau that I've been in for the past few weeks!  Busting through it!

Finally!

So I haven't run in 10 days due to the soreness/pain/issues with my knee.. I've been icing it and stretching it religiously.
This afternoon my trainer texted me to see how my knee was, and if I thought I'd be able to do some cardio work.  It's been feeling better so I said sure, let's give it a whirl.  He's very good about making sure I don't overdo it, and has no problem adjusting the work if it bothers me.
So I get there and warm up on the treadmill, not knowing what's in store. After my 5 minutes, he said we're staying here... time for some cardio! (will also hopefully help me break through this plateau I've been in)


So, we started doing 30 second intervals running on the treadmill.  I started at 5.2 mph for 30 seconds, then jump off to the sides for 30 seconds. Then I increased .2 mph and ran for another 30 seconds, then off again for 30.  I kept doing that for 2 miles, eventually making my way up to 8.2 mph!  That's the fastest I've ever run.  Clearly I wouldn't be able to sustain that pace for too long, but if I can build that into my normal routine once per week, that should help my overall speed improve over time.  So needless to say, after 2 miles (I really only ran 1 of them), I was already all sweaty!  Here's what else I did tonight (in no particular - we did 1 set of the whole routine, then the 2nd set):

• 2 sets of 20 oblique twists with a medicine ball (lean back, balancing on my butt with my legs slightly bent and elevated)
• 2 sets of 15 crunches on the decline bench throwing the medicine ball back and forth to my trainer with each repetition
• 2 sets of 15 push ups
• 2 sets of 12/hold 12/12 Superman exercises (lay on my stomach with my arms stretched out like a flying superman. raise arms and legs 12 times, then hold for 12 seconds in the raised position, then 12 more reps)
• 2 sets of 10/10/10 leg lifts (lay on my back with shoulders slightly elevated, extend legs straight out, then raise upward for 10 reps, then rotate each leg one at a time for 5 each, then another 10 together)
• 12 push ups resting one hand on a kettle ball (6 push ups with one hand on the kettle ball, and the other on the floor, then another 6 switching hands)
• 15 squats holding a kettle ball at chest level
• 20 lunges (10 on each leg holding a kettle ball in each hand at my side)
• 30 swinging squats with a kettle ball (squat while swinging a kettle ball in right hand and swinging it from in front to between legs while squating, then swing it with both hands while squating, then the left hand while squating, for a total of 10 with the right hand, 10 with both hands, and 10 with the left hand)
• 1 minute plank

To finish the night, we went back to the treadmill walking at 3.2 mph.  We started at 15 degree incline, and reduced the incline 1.5 degrees every 2 minutes. This continued for 15 minutes.

Wow, when I put this down and see it it sure looks like a lot!  Hard to believe that just a few months ago, doing something like this would have put me out of commission.  Oh wait, just a few months ago, I probably wouldn't have been able to complete this at all!  It's amazing how your body grows and develops and gets stronger with a little work!

I'm getting a physical next week, and am going tomorrow morning to get my blood drawn for my fasting lab test.  Curious to see what my results are for my cholesterol, triglycerides, etc to see how the exercise and vegan diet have impacted that stuff, after nearly 4 months.  I also want to make sure I'm getting all the nutrients I need, so I can adjust my diet if necessary.  Will post once I get those results back!

Ok, time for bed!  Have a good week. 

UGH!

So... things have been plugging right along. Almost too much of a routine for my taste now that I've settled in on running as my main cardio source (to train for the half marathon I've now signed up for - more on that later I guess I may have forgotten to mention that). 
When I cranked out the 6.23 miles a few weeks ago, my knee bothered me just a bit, nothing major.  Then I went to do a free workout with a trainer that Saturday, and I was doing squats, and think I may have hurt my knee somehow. I continued to run the following week, and it didn't really hurt, but I had been icing it quite a bit.  
Felt good the last 2 days, and I went back to the trainer tonight.  Seems to hurt again.  Icing it again.
I've taken this week off from running to help it rest and heal.  I hope it works!
I really don't want, or need a set-back right now.  I've come too far, and still have a long way to go, to get discouraged over an injury.
To top it off, I think I've hit a plateau with my weight.  I'm not showing any weight loss for 3 weeks in a row.  In fact, I gained 2 pounds over the last week. That's the first time that happened since I started this journey!  I'm chalking it up to Easter, salt, and lack of water for now.  But I really want to see a decrease soon, so I don't become discouraged. (I'm the person who needs to visualize the result to know my efforts are paying off).
On a positive note, my clothes do fit better, I've decreased a size in my shirts (to an XL now) and am close to going down a size in my pants. I guess that's progress, I need to keep that in mind too, and hold on to whatever positives I can.


I REFUSE to let myself go back to this!

Measurements: Month 4

Wow, time is really flying by fast.  I've been vegan for 3 months now, haven't had any soda since Jan 1, and am now working out with a trainer - well, one time so far anyway.  I had a good deal and got 5 additional sessions for $75!  Meeting with him twice this week!


Not much has changed visually from last month in my pics, but I have still lost some weight and inches.  Click here for my starting pics and measurements.
Here we go:


Weight: 236.5 (lost 44.5 pounds)
Chest: 46.5" (lost 4.5")
Right arm:  14" (lost 1.5")
Left arm:  14" (lost 1.5")
Waist:  44" (lost 7.5")
Hips:  42" (lost 5")
Right thigh:  25" (lost 4")
Left thigh:  25" (lost 3.5")
Neck:  18.25" (lost 1.25")


Now for the pics:

Spring is in the air! It's time to get outside and enjoy this weather!  I'm looking forward to what April will bring with my own transformation!

10k!

I completed my first 10k yesterday!  Ok, well it wasn't an official race, or a race of any sort for that matter, but I ran my first 6.2 mile run! (jogging is more like it)
It was a bit cooler out, but I went for it. I had to run on the treadmill inside for the previous 2 days, and I decided after being outside, I really didn't like the treadmill anymore!  Funny how that works, not long ago I was afraid to go outside to run!

My average pace was an 11:35 mile.. not bad. I've run faster before, but I really wanted to try to get this 10k out of the way.
Oh, by the way, I can now check off one of my goals for the year... to complete a 10k without walking.  Ok, I'll half check it because it wasn't an official race.  At least I know I can do that one now.
I was so tired last night after I iced my knees (doing again as I'm typing this today). I thought for sure I would be sore today, but surprisingly I'm not too bad.  My knees are just a bit tender in one spot, but I think with some rest today, and more ice, I will be good to go.  Nothing to worry about!
I took my pic after I finished yesterday... a bit sweaty, but at least I could still smile! :) (although I look quite dorky in the pic.)

more to come... just a few more days and I can update my pics and measurements for yet another month.  Come back on Sunday for that update!

Random

While at lunch today, I realized that for the first time ever my actual weight is less than the "I wish I weighed this much" weight I listed on my driver's license.  Woo hoo! Now I'm going to have to get a new license with a new "wish weight"  -- I do have to get a new one anyway because of my new address.

5 miles!

The warmer weather feels great, and it's especially wonderful getting outside and jogging! I've been working on building my mileage, and trying to control my pace over the past week.  Tonight, I quickly knew I was in "the zone" and decided to go for a new personal best distance.  I did it!  5.14 miles, with an average pace of 11:17/mile.  Woo hoo!  I have a feeling I could have kept going, but the hills were starting to make my legs a bit tired, so I decided to save the full 10k for another day, maybe next week.  For now, it's time to enjoy my new best.  It feels amazing! My goal for the 10k was to be at 5 miles by the end of April... I'm just over a month ahead of schedule!

Following this map from my run, makes it look like I was running in circles... I kind of was!  It's nice, I got a mixture of trail (paved) and road running in. 

Hope you're having a good week!

Get outside!

After a busy and exhausting week traveling last week, then spending a great weekend with my sister Heidi, I was a bit out of my routine... remember I also took off the week before.  It was great to get back to the gym today!


I did my workout inside - back, biceps, and abs.  Then I hit the trails outside at the community center.  Why, it's March 14?  Because of this:

How great is that? 72 degrees at 6:49 pm, and thanks to daylight savings time last weekend, it was still sunny.

Now, I was a bit worried about getting outside.  My previous attempts at running outside led to me hurting a foot or ankle or knee or something. So, I wanted to take it a bit easy.

I found a loop on the trail that ended up being 1/2 mile (per my GPS app on my phone) I jogged the first lap, then walked a shorter nearby loop, then jogged again.  The app showed me at a 10:18 mile pace, which would be my fastest yet!  I will have to build upon that distance, but I feel pretty good about it.

I got home, and a book I ordered arrived today (Running The Edge) and in the book was a surprise...

How fun is that?!  I have no idea what I would do with it, but it's fun!

Here's to a good week of workouts, and getting back on a regular schedule!

Happy spring!

Measurements: Month 3

So it's been 3 months now, and progress is moving right along.  Although I had a lack-luster week because I took off, it's always reassuring to see progress via pictures and measurements that keep me going!
I had lunch with a friend of mine yesterday, and he told me it's time I start to buy some clothes that fit!  Then, when we left, we hugged (as we always do, he's from Columbia) and he said oh my, you have lost weight! So that felt good, and made me smile too!
So now for my measurements... drumroll please:
Click here to review my starting measurements


Weight: 245.5 (lost 35.5 lbs)
Chest: 47" (lost 4")
Right arm: 14" (lost 1.5")
Left arm: 14" (lost 1.5")
Waist: 46" (lost 5.5")
Hips: 42.5" (lost 4.5")
Right thigh: 26" (lost 3")
Left thigh: 26" (lost 2.5")
Neck: 18.5" (lost 1")


And now for the pics... For some strange reason, I couldn't get a frontal pic that was in focus...I even took like 20 of them.  Hmm.

Off to the gym to get a good shoulder work out in, and maybe run a bit. I tried out one of my new pair of shoes last night - the Nike's. Got 2 miles in, my foot started to fall asleep, I think I tied one of them a bit too tight.


Have a great month, I hope you're feeling healthy with all of your endeavors!  Spring is right around the corner, we can get outside soon and feel the sun and breathe some fresh air!

The Demons Within

I've been plugging along at a good pace, and have felt like I've got this down.. the vegan, the working out. I feel good!
I decided to take last Friday off because I had a good workout week.  I had planned to start back on Monday.  But then Monday came and I forgot I had made plans for that night.  Oops. I guess I would go Tuesday.  I forgot I had plans to go to the Wild hockey game. Oops.  I will go on Wednesday.  Tuesday night and Wednesday morning there was a snowstorm, and I needed to go home after work on Wednesday after work to remove the heavy wet slushy snow before it froze solid. (or was that an excuse?)  So, I decided I would just take the whole week off, and let my body rest.  Good idea, but... Now I'm traveling this coming Tues-Friday for work, then my sister will be here Fri-Tuesday, so I'm a bit freaked out about lack of exercise right now.  I will have to focus even more on my eating!


Speaking of eating... without working out, I've had some cravings pop up over the course of this week.  Especially for cheeseburgers.  Now, I haven't had this craving at all since I've started, so it's weird that it's coming now.  It happened several days in a row.  It must be true, that exercise does help control your eating and cravings!  I just proved it. First, I'm excited that I was able to overcome this demon that I have ALWAYS given into during my past "lose weight" schemes.  Score one for me and my development!  I can now use this new found knowledge as power to overcome in the future.  Now I just need to get to the gym for the next 3 days before my trip so I don't go 2 whole weeks without a workout!


Now for some more good news!  Yesterday marked my 2 month anniversary of being vegan, and not having any soda!  That time really went fast, and I've found ways to still go out to restaurants and maintain my veganism.  By asking questions, having them cook the food differently, I've been able to work though it, easier than I thought it would be!


Tomorrow is my weigh in, measurements, and picture day.  Tune in to check on my progress!