Showing posts with label lifestyle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label lifestyle. Show all posts
Monday, June 16, 2014
For the fun of it....
Top of the morning (well middle for me), and I have few extra minutes to spare. I thought I would share how I'm doing with running for the fun of it as opposed to running to train for a race. Corny as this may sound but I'm LOVING IT (cues McDonald's commerical music). So glad, I've rediscovered my joy for running. I enjoyed the time I spent training and racing, but just getting out there and running is what I truly love. I have even ditched the garmin, and not been focusing as much on my pace. Who would of guess I'm getting faster, and becoming an overall better runner.
This past weekend, I went out with BGR! and ran the Centennial loop. That was the first time ever I ran 2.5 miles non-stop. I was on cloud nine for the rest of the weekend. I met a new BGR! member who had been training for Baltimore Women's Classic. Orginially we both said we would be doing intervals, and somehow, someway we managed to keep a steady breath, conversation, and pace throughtout the entire course. We both jumped for joy, and ended the run with laughs and hug; not realizing that this was the first time either of us had run that distance without stopping before. Definitely a moment, I won't forget, and another reason why I love Black Girl RUN!
I also caught back up with my B-more Run Buddies via our faceback page, and am looking forward to reuniting with them as well.
Aside from that, I have just been trying to move more & eat less. Today marks week 2, day 8 of P90x3. I'm enjoying the program thus far. The 30 minute workouts are great because I can still get my mileage in. Mileage wise I'm aiming for 3-5 miles day, alternating walking and running every other day. As for my nutrition, well the usual up & down battle. One thing I can give myself credit for is consistently logging everything into MyFitnessPal, and staying within my alloted calories most day of week. Keyword MOST, as this was Father's Day weekend!
On a personal note, I'm wrapping up a 60-day weight loss challenge with my clients at work. Overall the feedback has been great, and so far the group has lost about 86 pounds. Things are also great at home. I had a great weekend with my husband, my daughter is doing an excellent job with potty training and received her first pair of panties, and my son is nothing short of amazing.
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
My Aha Moment!
As a newly proud Sweat Pink Ambassador (SPA) today I'm sharing my aha moment! Coincidently it's also #testimonytuesday in the social medial world, so the timing couldn't be anymore perfect.
All of my life I've always been petite. On a good day (that usually means with heels) I'm 5'1, and have always held a small frame. I maintained a decent level of physical fitness through at-home workouts, biking, and keeping active with family and friends. Not really having a care in the world about my weight because I was a size 0-2, I pretty much ate what I wanted when I wanted it. Fast forwarding to college, I survived without gaining the freshman 15. Once again I was fairly active; as a Exercise Science I lived in the gym so working out was never an issue. Yet, still I ate as I pleased.
When my now husband then boyfriend and I started dating in October 2004, the pounds slowly packed on because we did a lot of "wining & dining". I think during our first year together I put on 10-15 lbs, and had moved up to a size 3/4. Still petite by most people's standards, it was also the first time I became conscious of my weight/ size. I made a commitment to drop the weight before my senior graduation, and I did. My girlfriends still tease me about us roaming the aisles of Old Navy in search of the perfect after party outfit, and here I was getting a size 0 pants.
Fast forward to April 2010 when I became a mother & wife. I gained 40 pounds during my first pregnancy. I was a newlywed, mother, and manager of a corporate fitness center. I don't recall my exact weight, but it was somewhere in the low 170's. As a fitness manager, I also taught 3-5 group fitness classes a week, and was a personal trainer so I expected my pregnancy weight to just drop it self. Little did I know, that it would take some work, and I probably would need to change my eating habits.
About eighteen months later (December 2011) we welcomed baby number two into the family. My husband and I had some tough choices to make, and that meant me becoming a stay-at-home mom to two children underage two. During my second pregnancy I gained around 25-30 pounds, and I hate to sound like a broke record, but I still ate whatever I wanted when I wanted. In my mind, I was still that little petite -size 0 wearing, gym going gal I was back in college, and there was no point in me taking nutrition seriously. The pregnancy weight was going to drop itself. Especially since I was nursing, I'd be back to "old" self in a few months!!
All of my life I've always been petite. On a good day (that usually means with heels) I'm 5'1, and have always held a small frame. I maintained a decent level of physical fitness through at-home workouts, biking, and keeping active with family and friends. Not really having a care in the world about my weight because I was a size 0-2, I pretty much ate what I wanted when I wanted it. Fast forwarding to college, I survived without gaining the freshman 15. Once again I was fairly active; as a Exercise Science I lived in the gym so working out was never an issue. Yet, still I ate as I pleased.
(September 2004 120's)
Fast forward to April 2010 when I became a mother & wife. I gained 40 pounds during my first pregnancy. I was a newlywed, mother, and manager of a corporate fitness center. I don't recall my exact weight, but it was somewhere in the low 170's. As a fitness manager, I also taught 3-5 group fitness classes a week, and was a personal trainer so I expected my pregnancy weight to just drop it self. Little did I know, that it would take some work, and I probably would need to change my eating habits.
About eighteen months later (December 2011) we welcomed baby number two into the family. My husband and I had some tough choices to make, and that meant me becoming a stay-at-home mom to two children underage two. During my second pregnancy I gained around 25-30 pounds, and I hate to sound like a broke record, but I still ate whatever I wanted when I wanted. In my mind, I was still that little petite -size 0 wearing, gym going gal I was back in college, and there was no point in me taking nutrition seriously. The pregnancy weight was going to drop itself. Especially since I was nursing, I'd be back to "old" self in a few months!!
(January 2012 about 4 weeks post baby #2)
I remember my six week postpartum check-up and the medical assistant congratulating me on my weight loss. When she called out my number I nearly pooped my pants. I still don't remember the exact number, but it was 180-something. That there was my aha moment! That's is all I remember the entire time I spent waiting to be seen my by doctor. In less than two years, I had put on about 60-65 pounds.
Here's another aha moment pic of me in my 180's after having my second child in eighteen months. Can't begin to explain the varying emotions I experienced going from a single, petite, size 0 wearing, gym going, personal trainer turned fitness instructor turned gym manger to a married, obese, size 14 wearing, couch sitting, stay-at-home mom! To sum it up: DEPRESSED!
I'm not where I want to be or where I used to be, but I'm continuously striving for progress not perfection!
Today I'm a happily married wife and mother of two (ages 4 & 2). I returned to the fitness industry and work part-time as a personal trainer. I've developed a newfound love for running & blogging, and of course am very honored to be part of the Sweat Pink Fit Approach community.
Now off to swap out some laces!!!
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
10 Tips for a Happy, Healthy Memorial Day
For many of us, Memorial Day sparks the unofficial start of summer. You’ve weeded your garden, brought out the patio furniture, and rinsed off the deck so before you’re dressed in your best red, white & blue, here are some must have tips for having a happy, healthy Memorial Day just for you!
1. Beat the Heat: Meteorologists are forecasting temps in 80’s with plenty of sunshine in the area, so don’t forget you sunscreen. For added protection, use something with a SPF of at least 30, dress in light, cool colors, throw on a hat or visor, and don’t forget your shades.
2. Portion Control: Let’s be honest who can resist a summer bbq, I sure cannot. Go ahead enjoy yourself, but watch your portions. So you don’t overindulge too much, take a look at everything that’s on the menu or table beforehand. Once you have scoped out the most appetizing dishes, use a smaller plate and take a small spoonful of everything.
3. Keep it Moving: Time and time again, we complain about how this new generation knows nothing about the “great outdoors.” Use this weekend to have some old fashioned fun, and keep everyone moving. Great ideas are volleyball, badminton, or a family walk. If you family is anything like mine, we’re quite competitive. So there’s nothing like a fun game of horse in the driveway, heading to the park for a softball game, or my uncle’s obstacle course where everything from water balloon fights, egg toss, and hopstoch is included.
4. Sip Cautiously: Lemonade, Sangria, soft drinks oh my! Whether you’re enjoying your favorite adult beverage, or keeping it simple with freshly squeezed lemonade don’t forget the H20. It maybe tough to get in your usual 8-10 glasses of water, but that is not an excuse to skip it all together. Make your first beverage choice an iced cold bottle of water. Then continue to sip slowly throughout the day. You’ll stay hydrated and full!
5. Lean & Green: Whether you’re hosting or attending, think lean & green when deciding what to eat. My go to lean meats are always grilled chicken breasts and shrimp. Also to try incorporate something green into every recipe. Adorn burgers with nice crisp lettuce; try a summer chilled string bean salad, add green peppers and broccoli into your pasta salad.
6. Nature’s Skittles: One of my all-time favorite summer recipes is a fresh fruit salad. There’ so many delicious options this time of year. Hit up your local farmer’s market (or grocery store) choose a variety of flavors and colors, and ta-da! It’s usually always a hit for kids and grown-ups a like.
7. Dance Like No One’s Watching: We’ve heard the saying once or twice before, and it’s a great way to set the tone for your gathering, and burn some calories. Crank up the jams and get moving with your guests. Just think of it a large Zumba-thon to your favorite tunes.
8. A Bug’s Life: Pesky mosquitoes can certainly ruin any event. Stay ahead of the game, and be prepared with a natural repellant. Spray on a diluted liquid garlic concentrate or apply vinegar or soybean oil onto your skin to prevent the bugs from biting. There is also a new OFF! Spray that is made naturally with plant-based solutions.
9. Pack Wise: Hitting the road? Pack a small cooler with cold water, fruit, vegetables, and maybe even lean turkey sandwiches. It’s easy on your pockets, and beats the urge of going to a drive-thru or a convenience store.
10. Hostess with the Mostest: Sure hosting can sometime be a pain, but if you’re looking to adopt a healthier lifestyle it may actually work in your favor. Since you can control the menu, you have more insight on what to serve you and your guests. Swap veggies and hummus for chips & dips, turkey, chicken, or salmon patties instead of beef burgers, and don’t forget to grilled up some fresh veggies and even fruit! If you're keen on the whole red, white & blue theme, I love the idea of strawberry, banana, & blueberry fruit skewers.
Best of Health,
LaToya
1. Beat the Heat: Meteorologists are forecasting temps in 80’s with plenty of sunshine in the area, so don’t forget you sunscreen. For added protection, use something with a SPF of at least 30, dress in light, cool colors, throw on a hat or visor, and don’t forget your shades.
2. Portion Control: Let’s be honest who can resist a summer bbq, I sure cannot. Go ahead enjoy yourself, but watch your portions. So you don’t overindulge too much, take a look at everything that’s on the menu or table beforehand. Once you have scoped out the most appetizing dishes, use a smaller plate and take a small spoonful of everything.
3. Keep it Moving: Time and time again, we complain about how this new generation knows nothing about the “great outdoors.” Use this weekend to have some old fashioned fun, and keep everyone moving. Great ideas are volleyball, badminton, or a family walk. If you family is anything like mine, we’re quite competitive. So there’s nothing like a fun game of horse in the driveway, heading to the park for a softball game, or my uncle’s obstacle course where everything from water balloon fights, egg toss, and hopstoch is included.
4. Sip Cautiously: Lemonade, Sangria, soft drinks oh my! Whether you’re enjoying your favorite adult beverage, or keeping it simple with freshly squeezed lemonade don’t forget the H20. It maybe tough to get in your usual 8-10 glasses of water, but that is not an excuse to skip it all together. Make your first beverage choice an iced cold bottle of water. Then continue to sip slowly throughout the day. You’ll stay hydrated and full!
5. Lean & Green: Whether you’re hosting or attending, think lean & green when deciding what to eat. My go to lean meats are always grilled chicken breasts and shrimp. Also to try incorporate something green into every recipe. Adorn burgers with nice crisp lettuce; try a summer chilled string bean salad, add green peppers and broccoli into your pasta salad.
6. Nature’s Skittles: One of my all-time favorite summer recipes is a fresh fruit salad. There’ so many delicious options this time of year. Hit up your local farmer’s market (or grocery store) choose a variety of flavors and colors, and ta-da! It’s usually always a hit for kids and grown-ups a like.
7. Dance Like No One’s Watching: We’ve heard the saying once or twice before, and it’s a great way to set the tone for your gathering, and burn some calories. Crank up the jams and get moving with your guests. Just think of it a large Zumba-thon to your favorite tunes.
8. A Bug’s Life: Pesky mosquitoes can certainly ruin any event. Stay ahead of the game, and be prepared with a natural repellant. Spray on a diluted liquid garlic concentrate or apply vinegar or soybean oil onto your skin to prevent the bugs from biting. There is also a new OFF! Spray that is made naturally with plant-based solutions.
9. Pack Wise: Hitting the road? Pack a small cooler with cold water, fruit, vegetables, and maybe even lean turkey sandwiches. It’s easy on your pockets, and beats the urge of going to a drive-thru or a convenience store.
10. Hostess with the Mostest: Sure hosting can sometime be a pain, but if you’re looking to adopt a healthier lifestyle it may actually work in your favor. Since you can control the menu, you have more insight on what to serve you and your guests. Swap veggies and hummus for chips & dips, turkey, chicken, or salmon patties instead of beef burgers, and don’t forget to grilled up some fresh veggies and even fruit! If you're keen on the whole red, white & blue theme, I love the idea of strawberry, banana, & blueberry fruit skewers.
Best of Health,
LaToya
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
30 by 30
I started this list on New Year's Eve, and never got around to finishing it. Since we're almost halfway through the year, I figured I'd map out my goals. Those highlighted in red have already been accomplished.
- Drop at least 20 lbs.
- Become a half-fanatic
- Vacation/ mini-getaway with my husband
- Ride a train (does metro count)
- Support a local team (went to wizards game)
- Join a credit union
- Become a Beachbody Coach
- Add another nationally recognized health/fitness certification
- Take hot yoga class
- Never miss a student loan payment
- Keep my credit card balance at 10%
- Ice skating
- Go skiing
- Pay off my car (thanks mom)
- Treat myself to a massage (oh how i miss my regular appointments)
- Find a church "home"
- Rosetta stone or somehow learn Korean
- Buy an SUV (wishful thinking)
- Get back into my pre-pregnancy size 4/6
- Host a family dinner/party just because (no holidays)
- Own a home
- Renew my vows
- Girl's trip
- Attend a health/ fitness conference
- More extended family time
- Try sushi
- Go to a gun range (need to go back)
- Bake a cake from scratch
- Go to a Cowboys game
- Transition from a fitness to a health/ wellness position
Michael Sam Reaction
As a lifestyle blogger, my posts will be based on the situations or events that impact my life. Has sports fanatic, I enjoyed watching and following the coverage of the NFL draft this past weekend. In case you haven't heard, the St. Louis Ram drafted the first openly gay football player Michael Sam. I recall a few months ago, when first "came out" to the media. I thought it was a great story not only for the NFL, but for society in general. I don't follow a lot of NCAA sports, so I'm not familiar with Sam's skills on the field, but I do appreciate the storyline.
So yesterday at work, I had an interesting conversation with a client about the situation. That along with my mother's reaction inspired this post. Moments after Sam received news, ESPN displayed him and his partner embracing the news with a kiss. Not just a peck, I mean a kiss, kiss. Ok it is what is, PDA is PDA right? Then throughout the weekend ESPN as well as other local and national news outlets continued to show the images of the kiss, and Sam and his partner smashing cake in each others faces with more graphic kissing. Here's my issue: I've seen multiple Sam interviews (when he "came out" on GMA and post-draft") where he expresses his feelings about wanting to be treated just as every other football player, and not wanting "special" attention. I respect that. What I don't get, and don't like is him putting on a show for the cameras. NBA superstar Lebron James said it best; something to the effect that's he's happy not only for Michael Sam, but for everyone who was drafted. I second those views, but I think Sam and the camera went way overboard with his celebrations. Many of the draftees expressed PDA with their families and significant others, but to smash cake in someone faces and tongue them down (something one typically sees at weddings) is extra to say the least. Instead of the media highlighting his talents on the field, his personal choices and lifestyles are being glorified. I'm all for the LGBT having equal rights, but something go to far, and I feel like media outlets focus on certain aspect of this community for ratings, and dollar signs.
If you have followed the Michael Sam story and have a reaction, please feel free to respond.
So yesterday at work, I had an interesting conversation with a client about the situation. That along with my mother's reaction inspired this post. Moments after Sam received news, ESPN displayed him and his partner embracing the news with a kiss. Not just a peck, I mean a kiss, kiss. Ok it is what is, PDA is PDA right? Then throughout the weekend ESPN as well as other local and national news outlets continued to show the images of the kiss, and Sam and his partner smashing cake in each others faces with more graphic kissing. Here's my issue: I've seen multiple Sam interviews (when he "came out" on GMA and post-draft") where he expresses his feelings about wanting to be treated just as every other football player, and not wanting "special" attention. I respect that. What I don't get, and don't like is him putting on a show for the cameras. NBA superstar Lebron James said it best; something to the effect that's he's happy not only for Michael Sam, but for everyone who was drafted. I second those views, but I think Sam and the camera went way overboard with his celebrations. Many of the draftees expressed PDA with their families and significant others, but to smash cake in someone faces and tongue them down (something one typically sees at weddings) is extra to say the least. Instead of the media highlighting his talents on the field, his personal choices and lifestyles are being glorified. I'm all for the LGBT having equal rights, but something go to far, and I feel like media outlets focus on certain aspect of this community for ratings, and dollar signs.
If you have followed the Michael Sam story and have a reaction, please feel free to respond.
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