Sooooo… working out and fashion week {and snow storms} don’t exactly go hand in hand.
All things considered, I still did pretty well with the gym this week but I could have been better. I managed five workouts, but two of them were on the same day so I only got to the gym four times. Two AM Core Fusion classes, one Chaise Fitness class {with Felicia – we finally met in real life!}, my pilates trainer, and a group Pilates class at David Barton Gym yesterday morning with Lydia.
I kind of gave myself a break and indulged quite a bit this week. I start each morning on a good note with a healthy smoothie but as the days wore on, my eating got worse. There were so many dinners and parties – I tried my best to pick good options and not sweat it too much if I ate something “bad,” but at the end of the day a mini grilled cheese or an extra glass of champagne isn’t the end of the world. On Tuesday night I was with one of my close friends at a party that was so cool I didn’t know how I was invited. 11pm rolled around, which had been my curfew. Instead of going home, I opted for another couple glasses of bubbly and I don’t regret it even the tiniest bit.Sometimes you just need to live a little. I canceled my 7am Core Fusion class and slept in on Wednesday.
That’s the thing though – I see this getting into shape thing as a journey and lifestyle change – not a one time health kick or a diet. To really stick with something, you have to go a little easy on yourself from time to time. At least that’s how it works best for me.
Anyway… I have said here before that I think that it is incredibly important to find a workout that works for you. One that you will love, keeps you interested + challenged, but in some sort of way you actually enjoy. I also think that setting is really important. Some people thrive in a group setting, others one on one, and others prefer to work out alone.
For me, it is all about working out in small groups, ideally with a friend. This is because at heart I am a little lazy. In a large group, I won’t feel the pressure I do in a smaller group. And with a friend the pressure is magnified. I don’t want to suck in front of my friends! I don’t do that well with a one on one trainer, either. I always manage to convince them to go easy on me. {Tatiana has been the exception, but a few years ago I had a trainer and I don’t think it was as effective as the classes I’m taking now.} So it’s true… there you have it, I am lazy at heart. I think it depends upon your personality, but for me small group classes are where its at.
This week’s fitness resources:
- Felicia had some great posts this week. I loved this post about getting buff on the cheap – tons and tons of great apps. She also did a good comparison of all the barre classes.
- I bought the ingredients to make this smoothie — it is incredible!
- And I’ve been making this Chia Seed Pudding. It’s super yummy {and easy!}
More fit files can be found here.
Grace – You’re so lovely! I had such fun (perhaps that might not be the right word, but you know what I mean) @ Chaise. I tell myself, before every class, that I’m simply going to do the very best I can do. Every day is a new opportunity, a new awakening, and I think about this as it relates to fitness, food, and life. Excited for more workout dates soon. Warmly, f.
I feel exactly the same way about working out. I’m trying to find something new to get me back in the groove after I kinda quit after getting married (which was 14 months ago!!!) And now it’s like, what do I do so I don’t look like an ass since I’m SO out of shape. I need a “fun” workout that won’t feel so gym-like since I hate the gym. Do you really like the Chaise classes? I’ve looked into them but would love to hear your experience.
Yes, I really love the Chaise classes! I wrote about them here. http://www.stripesandsequins.com/2014/02/ss-fit-files-no-1.html
What I like about it so much is that it never gets boring – all the equipment keeps it fun and interesting. But by the end of the class you are absolutely dead… even though you can’t believe the hour is over!
That sounds awesome! I definitely need something that’s going to make me feel like I’m working out, but trick me by being fun at the same time. When I do take the plunge (probably not for a few more weeks since I’m moving) I’m happy to put you down as a referral so you get a free class.
When you said, ” To really stick with something, you have to go a little easy on yourself from time to time…” It made me realize how my thinking about exercise has been as of lately. I work out 4 times a week, and just today I was thinking to myself (after eating a really delicious cupcake), “Wow, I really need to start working out every day if I’m going to eat like this.” After reading this, I really do need to take it easy on myself and not let a cupcake (or even a bloody mary..) make me feel like i’m failing at all the hard work i’ve been doing with exercising. I have been getting up at 4:00 a.m on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s for the past 2 months for a bootcamp class at 5:00 a.m., and not many people can say they can drag their butt’s out of bed for an intensive 1 hour workout at 5:00 a.m. any time of the week…So all and all, I will start going a little bit easier on myself 🙂
Btw- Really like that you’ve started doing the “SS Fit Files”
Love this post and series! I had a major slip this weekend with Valentines Day + a local beer fest and was feeling so crappy about it. But, you’re right, because this is a life choice and not just something that we’re doing for a month or two a slip up every once in awhile is ok.
Thanks for the encouragement!!
Jen
http://www.comfortably-chic.com
You have a great attitude about this! Yes, healthy living is a lifestyle not a “diet,” but you also can’t put your life on hold. Sometimes you should just relax & indulge, but you have to enjoy it not stress about it! 🙂
Hi Grace! Which core fusion classes do you take? We have an Exhale here in Atlanta. Thanks!
I take Barre and Cardio! Usually I get to barre two or three times a week and Cardio only once… Cardio is brutal!! Lots of mountain climbers.
I totally agree!! The one time I don’t need a small class to motivate myself is when I take my dog out for a run b/c it makes me happy to get him out and about and it’s an added bonus that I get a run in.
You already have a great shape! And when there are so many occasions to participate, its reaaaalllyy difficult to hold yrself!
http://fashionsbit.blogspot.com.tr ( followbacker on gfc,no need to ask just do it:)
Instagram @fashionsbit
I really appreciate these post because they motivate me to find a workout I love too!