Today before coming to work I decided to leave home early and get a quick 20 minute workout.  My plan was to do the stairs in the bottom bowl of the stadium and then do as many laps around the track that time would allow.  Before heading out the house I put on my new running shoes; New Balance RevLites.  

Let me just say that shoes do make a difference.  These shoes made my workout very comfortable.  They were great on the concrete steps and while on the track I felt like I was running on air.  They were amazing.  I can honestly say that I felt like my pace was a little bit faster than it was.  I did three-fourths of a mile along with the stairs.  Next time I will actually clock my mile but I think that it is a little faster than my 5K mile pace (13:60).   

The shoes that I raced in last year were Reebox and they were good too, but these New Balance are AMAZING!!!  So I think that any future running shoes that I purchase will be from this brand since I like them so much.  

Here are a few tips for those who are thinking about starting running or  working out.  First of all, buy new shoes.  New shoes will protect your joints and prevent injury.  This is very important.  Also, continue to purchase new shoes after you have worn out the shoes.  I'm sorry but you can't buy a new pair of shoes tomorrow and hope to use them for a year or more.  According to LiveStrong you should change your shoes "somewhere between 350 and 550 miles, depending on your body weight, the surface on which you usually run on and your running style."  There are apps that you can get for your phone to help you keep track or you can have your own handwritten notes.

Also, if you are a new runner, take your time.  Don't be afraid to pace yourself.  You don't have to go out there and run a mile.  I will be the first to admit that when I first started out I had trouble running 30 second straight intervals.  It's hard work.  But, if you keep it up you will see yourself getting stronger.  In no time you will be running for miles.  But don't feel discouraged if you're the walker on the track.  We all have to start somewhere.  Trust me I know.  

Finally, just remember that you can do it.  It will take work, but it will also pay off.  

Till another day....


Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/211320-when-to-buy-new-running-shoes/#ixzz1qTcF1Wv4

Hey all!!

Today I decided that I am going to share my favorite Bear Fit class.  Right now I go everyday for their 12:10 classes.  These classes are all different each day.  But I must say that Wednesday's Bear Strength will whoop your tail.  It whoops mine every time.

The instructor is Gina.  Gina is a student instructor at Plaster Sports Complex.  She is super bubbly and very nice; until the class starts.  Don't get me wrong she will encourage you through the workout.  But she will also push you.  You can tell that she really enjoys teaching the class and making sure that her students get the workout they crave.  

In this class we do strength training with kettle bells, hand weights, and body bars.  We also do some calisthenics and Ab work.  I really like this class because she incorporates cardio in the strength workout.  This class is also very challenging.  Even though I know it will be hard, I still can't wait to get there.  I tell my friends that I like it because it makes me "cry on the inside".  :D  This is not an exaggeration.  She will work you.  You will hurt.  But I feel amazing and proud of myself when I'm done.  

If you are a student at Missouri State University and have not tried a Bear Fit class I highly recommend it.  The classes are $2 each or you can by the multi-class passes.  I went ahead and bought the unlimited pass and I've definitely gotten my money's worth.  

I will try to get to some of the other classes and will do reviews on those as well.  If you have tried them please post below your favorite.  

Till another day....

Hey All!!

Today I got all set for my weight loss challenge.  If you are interested in checking out my progress I will update the "Challenge Log" page with all that information.  

I believe that I am truly ready to get this weight off.  I have worked out everyday this week and am excited to workout more.  I went to the grocery store today to get my food for the week.  I will be working on that day by day.  My first goal is to limit take out to once a week.  We will see how that goes.  I have also decided to limit after 9pm snacks to fruit only.  I picked up some bananas and apples to help with that.  Tonight I was SO close to just grabbing a bag of chips.  But I grabbed a banana instead.  Progress.  

This post will be short since it's pretty late and I have to get up early for a friend's wedding.  I'm really excited about this event and can't wait to share it with you tomorrow.  

Anyway.  Till tomorrow....