Still Torn About The TomTom Runner

I got a chance to take the TomTom out on another run yesterday... the best part? PETE actually came on the run with me! I'm not making this up! He wanted to get more sleep so we started about 1 1/2 hours after I wanted to - but he learned pretty quick that he shouldn't have done that because it was hot and we ran in full sun which sucks. I much prefer the cooler early morning runs. Unfortunately I have no photographic evidence that Pete ran with me because I think he would have been angry if I had taken a picture of him breathing heavy and sweating profusely... so yeah, just avoided it.

Now I'm not the most coordinated person so I didn't spend my entire (short) run looking at the watch, but I'm happy to report that it didn't drop signal this time - at least, not for any significant length of time. Here is the watch results vs. Endomondo:

 So there you have it - still a distance difference but not as huge as the first time I used the watch. I know that watches are supposed to be more accurate because they use GPS satellites vs. cell towers - but I've used Endomondo in multiple 5Ks and it has always been accurate? For the Wolverine 5K it was a perfect 3.1... at the Electric Run last week Endomondo said it was 3.09. It measured the Ella run as longer but everyone stated it was longer than a 5K and someone had a map on MapMyRun that stated it was longer as well. I know I'm not fast so the watch is probably more accurate but I don't want to give up Endomondo. I like the lady telling me "one mile in 9 minutes blah blah seconds" and I like how the app shows my pace for each mile. The TomTom doesn't let you set up intervals (although it's rumored that we will be able to in a future update).

I've been leaning towards returning it but I'm still on the fence. Honestly, I'm going to carry my phone on my runs no matter what. I'm klutzy and I don't want to end up in a ditch with a broken ankle and no phone. So why do I need the expensive watch?  I decided I needed to try it out with my treadmill to see the accelerometer feature.

I haven't been on my treadmill in ages - what for, when it's so nice outside? But I live in Wisconsin so I NEED that treadmill, because this girl won't run in the snow. I always feel like I'm running faster than what the treadmill says I am so that bugs me, lol. I set the treadmill on an incline of 2 and set the speed at 5mph. Which is a 12 minute mile... yet feels at least as fast as I run outside and I run around a 10 minute mile on average outside so UGH I just don't understaaaand lol.

Why such a short run? Well, I have a clear holder on my treadmill to hold my iPad and I kinda banged into it while adjusting the volume, which made it hit a button and stop my workout. That totally pissed me off and I decided I was over it for today. Since it shut off my workout I don't have a screen shot of the treadmill screen - but if I had the treadmill set at 5mph that's a 12 minute/mile pace, correct? So why is my TomTom Runner saying I was running an almost 9 minute/mile pace? Is it just THAT inaccurate? Does my treadmill need to be calibrated? Is it a combination of both? I wouldn't know the first thing about calibrating a treadmill so if you do, please share. The watch has a feature at the end of the treadmill workout to calibrate it to the "known" distance, but I'm not sure where the treadmill was at so I left it as is. I know the last time I checked the distance on the treadmill, it was less than the watch. Looks like this first attempt was a bust and I should probably attempt it again.

So where am I at right now? Well, I'm going to Green Bay today and I had wanted to make my decision on the watch by now so I could return it if necessary (I live about an hour away so I don't go there that often). However, I might have to hang onto it for a while... I still don't know. Should I try running with a different app and the watch? I've always been meaning to try Runkeeper. Does someone want to come over and calibrate our treadmill? LOL I just want to know what the most accurate numbers are! I have a feeling I will never know and I'll just give up in frustration because I'm too dumb to figure all of this out.

Any suggestions, thoughts, opinions?? PLEASE share! Help, lol!

National Running Day!

I was really looking forward to an outdoor run today for National Running Day - but when I woke up it was COLD. That would have been fine but to top it off it was raining too, a cold needling rain. I'm not that awesome of a runner yet, I'm not willing to run in all weather conditions so I decided to try to wait it out.

11:00 rolled around, it's still raining and Brady's baseball game was already canceled for tonight so I decided to hit the treadmill. I watched the premiere of the new ABC Family show The Fosters and did walking/running intervals. I really enjoyed The Fosters! Much better than the other premiere I caught this week - Mistresses on ABC. That one was totally blah and didn't really interest me, which sucks because I love Alyssa Milano.

I'm going to keep this short because we are heading out on our mini-vacation to Chicago later today! Now that Brady's game has been canceled we can leave sooner than planned. Here's hoping the hotel has a fitness room!

It's All Mental (and my new Fitbit Flex)

I know that many people say that with running it's all mental. I agree with this, to a point - for people that are convinced it's ENTIRELY mental they should see my out of shape ass with my heart rate so high that I feel like the dang organ is going to jump out of my chest... they'd probably change their mind. But I definitely think that the mental aspect has a lot to do with it, and I really struggle with that.

Every once in a while I will get lost in thought while running, and just get into a groove and suddenly I will notice that five minutes have passed and I break out in a huge grin. I end up in that zone on accident, by chance, and it doesn't happen often. I wish there was a way to get into that mode more easily. Sometimes a really good song will do it for me (I like the new Fall Out Boy song - go ahead and judge), sometimes I start thinking about actually running in a 5K and what it will feel like, and sometimes I just get lost in thought thinking about the things I have to do that day.

Most of the time though I am very present in the moment. Thinking about my running form (is it bad? How should I adjust? I wish I had a trainer) or my breathing (will I ever find a breathing rhythm that I can stick to? Why is it so hard to breathe in through my nose?) or the time ticking on the treadmill (Can I make it another 30 seconds?). Will I ever get better at this? I know that consistency is key and I just need to stick with it. It would just be super awesome if I saw more progress.

My brother-in-law is on some hardcore new diet and is doing P90X and lost 6 pounds in a week already. I should feel happy for him (I do) but I'm also jealous. Not gonna lie. Check out my green eyes (okay, they're really blue-gray). I want results like that.... but I'm still trying to figure out what's right for me.

Check out my spaced out look.... LOL. I do not sweat pretty. I get red faced and gross. My headband is super cute but I've decided I'm not a huge fan of sweat dripping all over my face and prefer the awesomeness of the Bondi Band. Every time I get on the treadmill I say I'm going to go longer than 30 minutes with a 5 minute cooldown but I never do. I think it's because I keep trying to push myself harder during those 30 minutes so by the end of it I'm always totally worn out. I'm just winging this here, input is appreciated.

I picked up the new Fitbit Flex at Best Buy the other day and was crazy excited about it. Could I afford it? Of course not, but I'm considering it my Mother's Day gift to myself since I know Pete won't get me anything. I gave Pete my Fitbit One so he can see how many steps he takes at work - so yay, I actually have someone on my Fitbit friends list, finally! So far I really like the Flex - I constantly left the One clipped to clothes and then had to dig through my dirty clothes basket for it, and I hated wearing the big velcro wrist band at night. I thought the altimeter (that logged stairs) was really inaccurate so I don't miss the fact that the Flex doesn't have it. The Flex is much easier to use for logging sleep, and I never looked at the One screen so I don't miss having a screen at all - I always use the app on my phone.

This is a screen shot from Saturday. Brady and I walked to my mom's house and back and I was pretty psyched to get over 10,000 steps - it is more of a challenge than you think, at least for me. Even when I was working, my job was rather sedentary and unless I exercised I would only hit 5000-6000 steps in an entire day. If I'm at home being a lazy bum I'm lucky to hit 2,000. The Fitbit motivates me to get off my ass.

There are a LOT of complaints about the Flex right now. Fitbit never gave a solid release date and Best Buy jumped the gun and released it early. People that have pre-ordered it are livid. I canceled my BB pre-order and picked it up at the store (no I could not wait, I'm not big on self-control). People say that it's logging steps when you wave your hand around and that it's NOT logging steps when you're pushing a stroller or grocery cart. I am wearing mine on my non-dominant hand (you can set that in the settings) and it seems to be pretty accurate for me. For example, aside from a tiny bit of walking around the house I did 2.65 miles on the treadmill today (see above) and right now my Flex is saying I've gone 2.67 miles today, or 5,006 steps. Sounds accurate enough to me! You can further calibrate it by inputting your stride length and all that on the Fitbit website, but I haven't found that necessary. Plus, I'm keeping in mind that this product was just released and technically wasn't even *supposed* to be released yet - I'm sure with all the feedback pouring in that a device update will be coming soon. For what I use it for it is (knock on wood) working great. They say you can even wear it in the shower, but I haven't been that brave. This little piece of tech wasn't cheap, yo.

I had a great weekend with Brady. Aside from the nice walk on Saturday (we stopped for ice cream, I had a few bites of his but did NOT get my own - hooray for tiny victories!) we worked on a school project together. I had to help him make a turtle out of clay. I think we did a decent job! He has to write his turtle report tonight but I'm not allowed to help him with that. Yesterday we saw Iron Man 3 in the theater (I admit it, I totally had movie theater popcorn and only felt semi-guilty) and we both liked it - Robert Downey Jr. is my dream lover. Seriously. My friend even made a photo years ago of people having a double wedding and she stuck our faces on the brides and the grooms were RDJ and Jude Law. No joke. If I could find the picture I would show you. I am trying the new Vine app and posted a few cute vid clips of Brady because he's my favorite person in the world. If you follow me on Twitter I posted a few links to some of the videos.

This is getting entirely too long and now I'm just rambling. To sum it up: Good weekend, liking the Fitbit Flex so far, need to work on my mentalness. Hahaha.

Ticks *shudder*

Finally talked Pete into a (very brief) walk yesterday and he decided it would be a good idea to walk in the woods on the trail he is "making" for me. It wasn't quite a mile long so he wants to keep expanding it but I really don't think he needs to bother... I'm not walking it again.

Don't get me wrong, I love the nature aspect - we saw a tree where a bird made it's nest in a hole, another tree that had buck rubbings on it - but when we got back to the house Pete noticed a tick crawling on him. Then he found four more. I proceeded to irrationally tweak out a bit and made him check me all over - he found three. Later that evening I thought I felt another one on me but figured it was all in my head... nope, I had one crawling across my belly. That was when I jumped up and squealed and ran to Pete and kept my eyes squeezed shut until he got rid of it.

I realize I'm immature when it comes to ticks but I practically have a phobia. Is there a scientific term for a tick phobia? I should look that up. It all started when I was about 8 years old and I slept in my friend's tree house... I woke up covered in ticks and her mom had to get them all off (they were stuck) while I stood there and cried. When my grandpa was still alive and I lived in a duplex (I had to be around...24-25) I had a tick stuck on me and I literally drove to his house so he could get it off me. I'm not making this up. I have no idea how I've survived 30 years in Wisconsin. I need tick repellent.

I thought about adding a picture of a tick to this post as it seems like people prefer blogs with lots of visuals.... but I'm sorry, I can't do it. Gross. Oh, I should also mention that one fell off of our dog Jordy, all swollen and full of blood. So Pete got out the Front Line because if I'm not picking ticks off myself, I'm definitely not picking ticks off the dog. Eww.

The treadmill was rough today so I'm definitely taking a break from it tomorrow - but I'm going to take a nice walk outside if the weather permits. Still went around 2.5 miles total, but had more walking than running today. My right ankle was sore though so I don't want to push it and injure myself. I feel SO good about my progress this time, I don't want anything to get in the way of that!

Overate at dinner yesterday and it made me feel gross - my body is ALREADY adjusting to getting a proper amount of calories so that's awesome. I didn't go over my calories if you count my exercise calories... I'm trying to stay around 1230 calories and yesterday I hit 1,475 - all because of dinner. That's okay though, it's still less than I had been consuming and I'll just learn from it and do better today!

Has anyone heard of True Lemon? I just picked it up at Woodman's to help me stay away from soda... it has 100% natural ingredients which is what appealed to me because I want to get away from aspartame. It does have a small amount of sugar, but 1g is fine and at least it's natural. This stuff is my new addiction, next time I go to Green Bay I'm going to buy the stuff in bulk, lol! I can't wait to try the other flavors, too. It's helping me with my water intake, I've been drinking about five 20 oz. water bottles worth each day and I put this in one or two of them.

I'm off to read a bit and wait for Pete to wake up so I can start running the vacuum cleaner... Brady has his first baseball practice tonight, can't wait!

Progress... or not?

I am still taking it SLOW. However, with that said today I did the longest "running" spurt I've done so far - 8 minutes! I felt awesome about it, since the longest I did at one time yesterday was 5 minutes. When my 30 minutes + 5 minute cool down was done though I had ended up going the exact same distance as yesterday (2.54 miles). I think the longest I jogged at once after the 8 minutes was 3 minutes, and most times it was 2. I'm wondering if I should start a C25K program to get more structure... I just worry because last year I attempted it (see old entries) and did not finish. I want to stick with running. I have the Zombies 5K app but haven't tried it... I have been running on the treadmill this time and I know those kind of apps don't really work right on a treadmill. I could and should start running outside now that it is FINALLY warming up, but I don't really want my ridiculous running attempts to be seen by the public yet and I'm just a scaredy cat making excuses, I know. I just like the treadmill... I feel like I get more of a push seeing that clock and saying "Oh, I can do another minute". I just don't know how to proceed. Help?

Two days in a row of eating well and staying within my calories... I am not eating my exercise calories, just sticking to the recommended amount of calories on MFP. The scale is already moving a little (thank you jeebus) but I need to pick a certain morning and start weighing myself once a week so I don't get all scale obsessed. I'm trying to eat every four hours or so... breakfast, lunch, snack, dinner and sticking to this has made me realize just how drastically I was overeating. Like whoa.

In a moment of weakness I ordered a sweet pair of ProCompression marathon socks. I know, I'm currently jobless so the last thing I should be doing is ordering a pair of expensive socks when I will probably never run an actual marathon in my life. I've just read so many things about how good compressions socks are for post-run recovery and I don't want anything hindering my running progress. So these will be for when I get farther in my "training". I also used a 40% off coupon code (found on Retail Me Not) and got free shipping so you really can't beat that. Also, they will look awesome with my running shoes. I will totally look the part, at least. Heh.

I have the above picture taped to my treadmill, along with a few other motivational sayings. Come hell or high water though, I will stick to this. It makes me feel good about myself, and I want to get better and better at it. I have never been athletic in my entire life and the fact that I get winded so quickly and that my heart rate gets high so fast proves that I need to make some changes before I just become that obese old lady that sits in her favorite chair watching her shows and eating Cheetos.

Feeling Good

Yesterday I started logging my food again. I have been terrible at this - I will log breakfast, but by lunch I say "oh forget it" or start eating so much I'm afraid to log... but yesterday I logged everything I put in my mouth and did really well. I'm hoping if I continue to do so I can break my habit of overeating and get my rapid weight gain moving in the OTHER direction.

I have been doing pretty well at doing some form of exercise every day. Taking a walk, a bike ride (which hurt my backside like you would NOT believe), 30 Day Shred with Brady - but today was the first day in a while that I got back on the treadmill. Here are the results:

How's that for a decent burn? I feel really good about it. For some people it would be nothing, but for me it was a lot. I kept hearing people say that if you're struggling with running go slower, so I went with that. I walked at 4 and "ran" at 5, with an incline of 2.0. I really need to work on getting my breathing under control (any tips with that are appreciated). My first running portion lasted 5 minutes, and every one after that was at least 2-3 minutes. I tried not to walk for longer than 90 seconds at a time. Baby steps, right? I feel good about it though and that's what matters the most.

If it isn't raining I plan on getting a walk in with Brady today too, if he's up for it. I can't tell you how much I love having more time to spend with him... it's awesome.

Jess from Run With Jess posted a picture on Facebook today and I really liked it so I'm going to end today's entry with it. We're all Wonder Women!

Music is a MOTIVATOR

Why do I constantly make the same dumb mistakes? At least every third workout I eat too much before I get on the treadmill and then I struggle throughout the whole thing. UGH. I am much better when I just have a small bite of something or just some water and then eat a bit afterwards. But at least I still put the time in! Focus on the positive.

Wearing my Brooks running shirt today - it's moisture wicking and generally awesome. If you like the shirt (the picture on there is a cupcake, sorry I cut it off but I'm all about the saying) you can find it on sale here - don't forget to also check around online for coupons/promo codes!

When we got our treadmill I imagined using it while watching my tv shows. I don't know how some people can do it, but I can NOT watch TV while running. If I'm just doing a brisk walk then it's fine, but the minute I start jogging I can't concentrate on what I'm watching. Music is my motivator, I work out much better when I've got some motivational tunes going. Here are some of the highlights from today:

Paul Oakenfold ft. Brittany Murphy - Faster Kill Pussycat
Skrillex - Bangarang
Technotronic - Pump Up The Jam (everyone should have this. seriously.)
Breathe Carolina - Blackout

My musical tastes are all over the place, so don't expect me to stick to any certain genre with my musical highlights. I also love being introduced to new music, so if there is a favorite of yours that you'd like to share I'm all ears!

I tried Greek Gods Vanilla Cinnamon Orange greek yogurt today and loved it... which is strange because I don't care much for most greek yogurt. The fruit on the bottom stuff makes me wanna hork, honestly. But this stuff is delicious. Doubt I'll be getting it often since it's kinda pricy at my local store but for an occasional treat it's great. Maybe I could take some vanilla greek yogurt and put some cinnamon in it... but how to get the orange flavor in there? Any tips, aside from putting orange slices in it?

Found this on Pinterest today and I love the saying, so I'm going to end with it:

I don't think I've hit habit status yet, but I'll get there!

No More Excuses!

With all of the drama happening at work, I had totally abandoned my fitness regimen. It was stupid really, I almost had to actively avoid using the treadmill... it was like I was punishing myself for something that isn't even my fault. No idea why I would do that to myself - but I hopped on for the first time in about two weeks today and it felt great. I feel even more out of shape, but I'm ready to get back on track.

As you know from my last post, due to restructuring my position at my clinic was eliminated. I put in for another internal position but was turned down because I am not able to work later than 5:30 p.m. My last day was Friday. It was very bittersweet, I am going to miss everyone at my clinic a lot. One of the ladies from HR said I am definitely eligible for re-hire and also said I could use her as a reference. One of the providers at my clinic wrote me an amazing letter of recommendation, and the other provider made a point to talk to me and let me know that I would be missed and he really enjoyed working with me. The girls made yummy desserts for me and they all signed a "Best Wishes" card. So all of that made me feel really good. Except for the whole part where I no longer have a job.

But guess what? This just means that for now, I have more time to spend with my amazing kid and more time to spend on getting healthy and active. I am registered for three 5K's so far - in May, June and August. I'm definitely signing up for at least one more as well (glad I registered early when I had the money to do so, things will be awfully tight now!) and by the end of the summer, I am going to run the whole 5K. Right now I'm working on stamina, going the distance. Once I have that down I will work on speed. I know I can do this.

So here's my burn for today:

Something I'd like to do regularly on this blog is to share some of the music that I like to use during my workouts. I'd also love to hear what you've been listening to lately so feel free to share in the comments! A few of the songs that came up on my playlist that made me extra happy today are:

The Guild - I'm The One That's Cool
Black Eyed Peas - Rock That Body
Robert DeLong - Global Concepts

Garmin just came out with some new colors for the Forerunner 10. I'm kind of in love with the new purple color, and have dropped a (not so) subtle hint to Pete that ah hem, Mother's Day is coming up! Look at this beauty:

SO much cuter than the pink - just because I'm female, doesn't mean I like pink - and for some reason I like it even better than the green!

On an unrelated note, I purchased a curling iron a few weeks ago and tried it out for the first time the other day. Gave myself some beachy waves and was fairly successful. The Wisconsin weather has been ridiculous lately, we keep getting rain/sleet/snow and giving myself a fun summery hairstyle was my way of rebelling. What do you think?

Today is Pete's one day off for the week so we're off to do some grocery shopping and maybe catch a movie. Happy Sunday everyone!

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Bogus Boyfriend

Struggled a bit more on the treadmill today but it was my own fault - I had a full breakfast and didn't wait long before hopping on. Usually I just have a snack and then go, and I could definitely tell the difference. My stomach didn't like me towards the end. I also had more trouble regulating my breathing than usual (I still have a hard time finding a rhythm and not having to think about it - tips are welcome). But...

I love working out, I really do. I love the feeling of accomplishment I get from it and I love feeling like I'm getting a bit stronger, a bit better, every time.

I also love my boyfriend. I really do. But UGH, was he an obnoxious pain in the butt this morning! I warned him that I was going to be hopping on the treadmill. He was laying on the couch watching TV. His excitement about the treadmill has equaled to him using it once thus far (and nobody saw him do it, so he has no proof). Instead of going to one of the other rooms that has a TV, he decides to stay in the living room by me and crank the volume up extremely loud while watching Top Gear. I could still hear the TV even with music on my headphones. It was distracting. Then he complains about me making so much noise. Thanks for being supportive, baby.

This journey would be easier if I had more support. So far I have seen a lot of talk but no action. I am very grateful for my friend and co-worker Catherine, because if it weren't for her I'd be flying completely solo.

I've registered for two of the 5Ks I'm interested in so far. The Electric Run of course, and now the Cellcom 5K in Green Bay. There will also be half and full marathons going on for the Cellcom event - maybe next year, haha! I'm very excited because there will be a health and fitness expo going on at Lambeau Field during all of this and I can't wait to check it out. Pretty sure Catherine is planning on going as well, but honestly I'll even go alone. I'm determined to stay on this path whether I have a huge support system or not.

Bummers and Birthdays

This week has been a bit rough... I try to do the treadmill every other day (sometimes two days in a row if I feel up to it) but I skipped an extra day because I was up all night with stomach pains so it threw me off. The day after that I got on the treadmill but only for 20 minutes since that's all the time I had before work. Better than nothing but I was disappointed.

Today was better. TBH I wasn't in the mood to do it but I know how good I feel after - and sure enough, now I feel great and I'm so glad I did it. Maybe if I keep this up I will be able to fit in jeans again, instead of just scrubs and pajama pants!

I have been having some weird twinges in my knee so today I did a 1.5 incline instead of 2. I power walked at 4 and jogged at 5-5.2. I didn't push as hard as I have on other days but I think this was better as I'm able to jog for longer spurts! I haven't been keeping track of minutes, but I was able to jog through two entire songs so it had to be for at least 5 minutes straight! Awesome. Speed will come with time, first comes endurance. I so need to keep up with this because I see little improvements every time!

I got pretty upset towards the end of the workout... I try to keep the treadmill screen covered for the most part because I don't want to stare at the numbers the whole time. We have a clear plastic shelf that's made to go on the treadmill that can hold a book/iPad/etc. I usually keep something on it so I can't see the screen - but when I uncovered it the screen was blank! Somehow the display went wonky.

With all the treadmill issues we've already had the LAST thing I want is for the display to go to hell already! But after the workout I shut the treadmill off and turned it back on and it was working again. So I guess we'll see what happens next time. I had really wanted to see my distance though - with me being able to jog for longer spurts I wanted to see if it estimated me going farther than I have on other workouts. Bummer.

Now for some unrelated (but way better) news - today is my son's 8th birthday! Bittersweet for mom because this means no more booster seat, my baby is officially getting old haha. But these last 8 years have been amazing - I don't know where I'd be without him. We're going out for hibatchi tonight with some family (at his request) and I can't wait to see the look on his face when he gets his iPad mini! Yes, he's admittedly spoiled but grandma and grandpa pitched in on his gift too, and it's all he's been asking for for months. Plus, I would like to get all of the Skylanders and Ninjago games off my iPad (but maybe I'll keep Hill Climb.... haha).

Here's a pic of the two of us taken earlier this month at grandma's house. I'm the luckiest person in the world.

Opinions and Zombies, Run

Just got done burning 445 calories - so proud of myself for sticking with it! I was on the treadmill Thursday and Friday... Friday I noticed my legs felt a bit sore so I skipped yesterday and just did 35 minutes today (counting cooldown). Pete didn't even make fun of me too much. I've been making fun of him like crazy though. He's only used the treadmill once so far and says that he "hasn't had time" - but he's had time to watch about two seasons of The Shield. Hmph.

Some guys from Best Buy showed up on Friday to pick up the broken treadmill - they were to come between 12:30 and 2:00 and showed up right at 12:30. Since when do delivery guys come on time?! I had just gotten done on our put-together treadmill and was all sweaty and gross. My hair was in pigtail braids (yes, I'm 30 and still rock the braids on occasion) and my exercise clothes currently show every lump and bump. I thought for sure I'd have time to take a quick shower before they got here but nooo.... and to top off my embarrassment they weren't bad looking either. Oh well, at least they know I'm working on my fitness so I should be proud, right? It sure is nice to have that big box out of our hallway now, too.

Someone needs to help me stop spending money. I caved and picked up some Yurbuds to try out. At first I couldn't really get them in my ear right and they felt huge and I was thinking about taking them back right away. I kept fiddling with them a bit and then set them aside. Today I decided to actually try using them for my workout. Got them in my ears no problem and they were FANTASTIC when I was on the treadmill. Good sound quality and best of all they stayed put. When I use my regular iPod ear buds I'm constantly adjusting them and it gets really annoying so this was a win. It'd be a heck of a lot cheaper if they just sold the plastic piece that fits in your ear though - they are essentially normal ear buds with a plastic casing over them that helps them stay in the ear better. If you're in the market for new ear buds though I'd definitely recommend Yurbuds over Skull Candy ones that are in the same price range.

My FlipBelt came in the mail the other day and I've used it once so far. I haven't been using my phone while on the treadmill so this will be more for my outdoor runs.I went with the medium because it has a good stretch capacity and I didn't want to get the large only to lose weight and have it feel loose. It feels weird to put it on because you have to step into it seeing as it has no clips. I wear it more on my waist because it'd be pretty stretched out near my hips and I'm not sure if it'd stay in place or just creep back up to my waist anyway. Best part though is that even with my iPhone in the belt it didn't jiggle - it stayed right in place. So this product is a win too.

Here is the section of the post where I ask for opinions. This might sound stupid or ignorant but I'm new to exercising. My legs tingle after my runs - is this normal? I thought it was fine, just an increase in blood flow from actually exerting myself for a change, but then I decided to google it and a few things I read scared me. Stupid google. I read about meralgia paresthetica, chronic exertional compartment syndrome, and circulation issues... I'm not panicked or anything, I'm not in pain so I'm still convinced I'm fine - but sheesh. I need to stop googling everything I come across. Other input would be nice though, so please share!

Has anyone used the Zombies Run app? Camilla Luddington, who I'm currently in awe of (she's beautiful, she did the voice of Lara on the new Tomb Raider game and she's on some of my favorite shows - Californication and Grey's Anatomy) gave it props on Conan and it's currently on sale, so I'm thinking of trying it. They have their regular app and a 5K training app - the 5K training is only $1.99 right now for iPhone and the regular is $3.99. If anyone has used one of these apps, please tell me which one you used and your thoughts! Also, watch this video and see the awesomeness that is Camilla:

Trying out my Polar HRM

Used the treadmill two days in a row, and finally got around to trying out my Polar FT7 heart rate monitor! It's sweet. I like knowing that I'm getting a more accurate idea of how many calories I'm burning.

Since I'm basically completely new to fitness I'm starting off slow. I probably mention that in every entry. But seriously people - I was the skinnyfat girl that could barely do the lap around the playground in gym class. I was always one of the last ones and I would finish it walking.

Now I'm sitting here still in my workout clothes and sweaty (eww) and totally loving it. I promise that I'm showering after I write this, honest. I'm just excited - I can't wait to feel toned and fit for the first time in my life. The sad thing is, I'm all sweaty from 35 minutes of alternating power walking and jogging (and a 5 minute cooldown). Slow and steady though, eventually I'll work up my endurance. Right? RIGHT?! lol.

Here's a pic from yesterday, the first time using my heart rate monitor:

I accidentally hit the emergency key on the treadmill and shut it off in the middle of my workout (why yes, I AM the clumsiest person ever) so I was bummed because I wanted to compare how many calories the treadmill says I burned - even though I know HRMs are supposed to be more accurate. I don't remember what the screen on the treadmill said because I was watching Switched at Birth on my iPad and had it covering the screen lol.

So here's today:

 The first picture is of the treadmill screen - it said I burned 360 calories. I can't believe my distance was only 2.3 miles! I must be the slowest person alive. Seriously, my mom and I walked a 5K last year in 45 minutes and I was power walking/jogging much faster today and it probably would have taken me 45 minutes to go 3.1 miles. I don't get it - is that inaccurate on the treadmill as well or do I just suck that bad? I want to use an iPhone app to compare but don't really feel like wearing my iPhone while on the treadmill. However, if there's an app you recommend let me know. If only I had the Polar H6 with bluetooth... sigh. I'm a technology geek.

Also, let's talk about how many minutes were fitness and how many were fat burning. Only two minutes of fat burning? That's it? Is that when my heart rate was in the 180's, 190's? I'm a little discouraged by these numbers but I just keep telling myself to take it slow. Build endurance. The awesomeness will come.

I was happy that the FT7 says I burned more calories than what the treadmill says... I always thought the opposite was the case. I've been keeping the incline at 3 and switching up the speed between 4 and 5, depending on if I'm power walking/jogging. Is that a good start? I'm not even sure if I'm "doing it right" or where to begin. When I research I usually find conflicting information so I've just been sticking to general themes.

But in the mean time, SWEAT EVERY DAY. I don't want to overdo it on the treadmill so I may do some Jillian Michaels or an Xbox Kinect game tomorrow to change it up. Here is a picture of me all disgusting and sweaty right after cool down. I burned half my face a year ago (that's a story for another blog) and usually you can't tell unless I get sunburned on the sensitive skin (which I don't allow to happen) or unless I'm red faced and sweaty. So next time I should take a pic of the other side of my face instead. Or just spare myself the embarrassing pics all together.

NAH. That's half the run of reading peoples' blogs right? To check out the pictures they post!

Notice the giant headband on my head. I'm in love with it and just ordered 5 more. Hey, there was a coupon code on Retail Me Not so it was totally worth it. Go ahead and judge, but they're freakin' awesome. It's called a Bondi Band. I bought it from a running shoe store because I felt bad for having the guy help me only to have me not buy any shoes there (sorry dude). They're amazing because they keep all the little fly aways and bits of hair that escape my ponytail from going in my eyes or getting stuck to my sweaty face. They're moisture wicking so it stops the liquid awesome from dripping all over the place. You can fold the band so it isn't so wide and the best part is - it fits my giant melon, it doesn't slide off like all the Goody bands and whatnot tend to, and it isn't tight or pinchy at all! Seriously, you need to check these out. I should also mention they're only $8/piece (or $5/piece if you buy 5, which I did). Sweet!

They did not ask me to promote the product, I didn't get a free one for writing a review. I just think they rock and wanted to tell you about it.

Off to the showers!

Treadmill!

Treadmill #2 arrived yesterday, which was perfect because yesterday was Pete's 30th birthday! The box was damaged again but not as bad as the first time. We put it together after Pete got home from work last night and thankfully, none of the pieces were broken. I did a half hour of brisk walking (4.2 mph at a 2-3 incline) and broke a sweat and feel fantastic about it. That might be nothing to some people but after doing nothing but sitting on my lazy butt all winter I'm happy about it. Plus, it's only the beginning - and everyone has to start somewhere, right?

It's tax return time, so I used it as an excuse to splurge on myself a bit. It's more exciting than Christmas!

I finally went to a running store to find out what kind of running shoe would be best for me and the guy suggested I go with ones that have support. After much research and deliberation I chose the Brooks Ravenna 4 and so far I am really happy with my choice. Also - in case you were wondering the answer is yes, they ARE the most expensive shoes I own. Haha. I also included my new Polar FT7 heart rate monitor in the picture, which I still haven't used (but I've finally taken it out of the package and set it up). If you click the link you'll see it's selling for $109.99 on the Best Buy website but I got it on sale at Best Buy in Ashwaubenon for an amazing $55! I know I mentioned the deal in a previous entry but I'm sorry, that's worth repeating.

Here's a few more pictures of the treadmill fun we had last night:

 A view of inside the box... notice the other box that's in the hallway standing on it's side... that's treadmill #1. We keep playing phone tag with the people that are supposed to come pick it back up, but hopefully it will be out of the house this week.

 Here's a few shots of the boys putting together the treadmill. Brady did a great job helping his dad and was very excited about the whole thing. Please ignore the lack of trim around the door... the house is a work in progress.

 Here's a hideous shot that Brady took of me on the treadmill this morning. The dangling things you may notice in the picture are decorations I put up yesterday for Pete's big 3-0.

I'm a sucker for shows on ABC Family - judge me all you want. Being able to break a sweat and still watch my shows at the same time is pretty much the coolest thing ever (although I'm looking forward to nicer weather so I can walk/jog outside again,too).

So there you have it. Tonight is Pete's party and yesterday I went shopping to try to find a cute top to wear. Let me tell you, I noticed every ounce of those extra 25 pounds I'm sporting in the dressing room mirrors, and did not have much luck finding anything flattering. I'm tired of feeling insecure and flabby and it's time for that to change!

On a positive note, I am doing really well on cutting out the soda. I've gone from 2+ sodas a day down to 1-2 sodas a week. I've been doing really great on my water intake as well, refilling my 20 oz. bottle anywhere on average from 4-7 times a day. Not going to lie though - still overeating like crazy. Portion control needs to be my next focus, as well as using the treadmill.

Current weight - around 170. Goal Weight #1 - 155. Goal Weight #2 - 145. Ultimate Goal Weight - 140?! Maybe. My pre-pregnancy weight was 145 so if I can get back there I'd be thrilled. According to those weight range/BMI calculators, the "normal" weight range for a 30 year old woman that's 5'10" is anywhere from 132-174 pounds. I graduated high school around 133 and was basically a toothpick with hair so I don't want to get that thin. I just want to feel healthy and fit in my size 27 jeans again.

My new mantra? It's gross but it works - SWEAT EVERY DAY. Game on!

So here I go again...

What I want more than almost anything in the world is to be healthy and fit. I'm tired of being skinny fat. The only reason why I'm not obese is because I have a good metabolism. I've never been an active and athletic person and I want that to change, but I have trouble finding the motivation to actually DO it.

I'm really good at shopping for fitness items. I have cute running shorts and tanks, a new Polar FT7 that I haven't taken out of the package yet (on sale at Best Buy, $55!) and a wishlist of things to buy "when I actually start getting fit". I'm awesome at following fitness people on twitter and instagram, and I recently started following a bunch of running blogs as well.

So isn't it ridiculous that I don't actually do anything to be fit? I know the season has a lot to do with motivation - I have no desire to be outside in the winter. Snow, ice, slush? No thanks. With that attitude I probably shouldn't live in Wisconsin, but this is my home and despite my dislike for winter weather conditions, I do love it here. The tiny town I live in has no gym, my boyfriend works second shift and I hate dumping my kid off with a sitter - so as you can see, I make a lot of excuses.

It is time to change that. I need to stop setting my expectations so high and take one day at a time. This won't happen overnight. I need to have this be my mantra:

I'm making a decent start. I've given up my precious Mountain Dew, AGAIN. All soda really, except Sprite if we go to a restaurant or something. I've drastically upped my water intake. I was never a big water drinker, and now I try to drink 100 oz. a day. It's easier for me to do this at work for some reason, but I've been doing okay at home, too. I have tried so many fancy water bottles and hated them all, but then I found these:

The Rubbermaid Chug bottles are awesome. Easy to clean and they don't leak. I love them. No, I'm not getting paid to say that. Maybe one day I'll have a fancy blog where they'll see me talking about their product and offer one for giveaway or something. But it's doubtful, so don't get too excited.

I don't deny myself treats, but I no longer buy them either. If a drug rep brings cookies to work, I'll eat one. But just one. With the exception of Subway and Cousins, I've been avoiding fast food restaurants. It's all baby steps but I'm hoping it will add up. I know that I overeat so something I *really* need to work on is portion control. If anyone has any tips on that I'd really appreciate it!

I've also started eating breakfast. I know, I just said I overeat and in the next paragraph I talk about eating more. But I get up early for work and I hate eating so early, so I usually skip breakfast (or grab cookies or something unhealthy from the gas station). Now I'm forcing myself to eat SOMETHING. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and it jump starts your metabolism so I need to remember that. Oatmeal, a "healthy" cereal choice (I like gluten free Corn Chex) with unsweetened almond milk, a banana, just something. Let's see if it makes a difference.

So how am I going to be active with no gym nearby and frigid weather outside? Well, I have some Jillian Michaels dvds that definitely do not suck - but they aren't doing me a whole lot of good just sitting around. I need to USE them. We have a Kinect for Xbox and I love Dance Central games and Your Shape: Fitness Evolved. They make me sweat, which is good, so I need to start using those again.

Best of all? Pete (the boyfriend) finally got on board about us getting a treadmill, and we ordered one. He's even looking forward to using it! We would be using it already but it arrived on Valentine's Day totally damaged. Talk about disappointment. Here's a picture of the box:

Sure enough, when we opened the box there was broken plastic and the whole base of it was bent. So we called, and luckily Best Buy was really nice about it and re-shipped a new one right away. They are also sending a return label so we can have someone pick up the damaged one. Whew. Also, the darn treadmill went on sale for $100 cheaper (no joke) right after we ordered it so they did a price adjustment for us too. That's called good customer service, people.

I'm beyond excited for the treadmill. This will not be something to throw clothes on. I can't promise that I'm going to be able to run on it right away, but it will definitely get me moving. I can see me power walking/jogging while listening to some tunes or watching Grey's Anatomy. I recently got myself a FitBit and it has been totally eye opening. On the days I work (as a receptionist), I'm lucky if I walk 5,000 steps a day. On my days off? Even less. It's horrifying. So I want to make sure I'm walking at least 10,000 steps/day, and start doing jogging spurts as I can handle it until eventually being able to jog a full 30 minutes.

I want to run (well, jog) a 5K. Start to finish. This is incredibly easy for lots of people but it seems like a dream for me. 

I should also confess something. I've gained a lot of weight this winter. We are doing a "Biggest Loser" contest at work so I weighed myself on their scale and it says I am four pounds heavier than my home scale. Oh home scale, how I love thee. The work scale says I weigh 169 lbs 4 oz. I got down to my pre-pregnancy weight of 145 pounds in 2009/2010 and I want to get there again. But in a healthy way this time, not just in a "I'm stressed and don't eat" way like last time.

So I have about 25 pounds to lose. I can do this, right? My tax return gift to myself is going to be an awesome pair of running shoes (like I said, I'm good at shopping for fitness stuff). I'm going to go to a running shoe store to get fitted for them and everything. I don't want crappy shoes or injuries getting in the way of me getting off my ass.

If anyone is actually reading this, welcome. This is a judgement free zone and if you comment, let's try to be encouraging. I need all the help I can get, and I know I'm more likely to stick to it if I have a good support system!