My Life as an Amateur Fitness Competitor

Please join me at my new blog!

2011-05-17T07:45:00.002-04:00

I have a new goal...so I have a new blog...please follow me at: http://jennrunsforfun.blogspot.com/

Hope to see you there!

~Jenn

Well, Looks Like We're Starting Over...Reflections from the past week...

2011-01-17T16:21:00.004-05:00

Why does a snow day always seem like the best excuse to sit in your house all day and do nothing but sleep, watch movies, and wear PJs??? I think it was probably ingrained in our brains when we were children...I was even shut in the house with a treadmill and a few pair of dumb bells and sat on my hiney all day....oh and this was on Wednesday...here is a quick recap of how and when it all went wrong:

Week One was great...drank all my water, got my workouts in, ate my meals as planned. Then the weekend came...and we had a family party...and I had some wine...ok maybe alot of wine...and instead of being down 3lbs in a week...it was only 1.5lbs in a week...

Here comes Week Two...started off strong on Monday & Tuesday....with the anticipation of another HUGE snow storm I had already planned in my head Tuesday afternoon I was going to be working from home on Wednesday.

Wednesday morning comes and I sleep in...no morning cardio...and the rest went down hill. Since Wednesday there were little to no workouts, definitely no gallon of water drank per day...and a complete MESS with the meal plan...SIGH...

The thoughts in my head weren't so much "Screw this, I'm giving up" it was more like "Holy sh*t, working a full time job, training clients, and prepping my own food, workouts, and keeping my house clean is almost impossible...I better rethink my plan, and reset my goals."

So, instead of stressing myself out to get ready for a show in 13 weeks...it might take me longer because I don't have as much time to spend on my workouts like I did a year and a half ago...and that's ok. I think slow and steady wins the race, right? Besides, my goal was to compete at least once this year to get my national qualification back...not necessarily to compete nationals...so maybe I won't be ready for April...maybe I will have to look at June...I may need the extra 7-8 weeks.

So, I enter into week 3 as a "Do Over." I am wiping the slate clean and starting over...Here we go for WEEK ONE...AGAIN.

Oh, and please do yourself a favor and DON'T BUY the Jennie-O Turkey Tenderloin.

It's not good. I bought it thinking it would be an easy way to get alot of meals prepped in one shot and it's gross. I can't really put my finger on it...maybe it's too salty...or processed? I don't know but save yourself time and money get something else!

Here we go again...

Day Two of Week Two Recap

2011-01-11T07:27:00.004-05:00

Good Morning Blogger friends! Here I am...Day Two of Week Two in this competition prep. I just thought I would recap how the last week went...what I learned...and my next set of small goals going forward.

Last time around doing this I had all the time in the world to workout because I was basically in the gym all the time personal training full time. Now that I am back to work in the corporate world...it's alot harder to get those workouts in. Last week I planned out my workouts...and I only completed 4 of them...instead of getting frustrated and upset and giving the whole thing up my goal for this week is to get 5 workouts in. For me, diet is always the hardest part of my competition prep mentally...so right now I am focusing on hitting that 100%...I know my intensity will always be there for my workouts...no matter if I get them in 4 days a week or 7 days. The only thing I am nervous about with my training this time is that my fitness routine is pretty hard and I will need ALOT of cardio and muscle endurance to get through it...so I need to get in those type of workouts to prepare my body for 2 minutes of intense non stop movement. I suppose it's only the beginning of week two so I have time.

I also have not taken beginning pics to track my progress...I guess that antother goal for this week.

I hurt my elbow a little in Jiu Jitsu last night so that might set me back a few days because really any movement where I have to bend it I feel it. It's not BAD but I know if I put too much weight it may not heal as quickly...so that means no shoulders, chest, or tris...I may be able to still do back and bis...but maybe for the next few days I just hit cardio, legs, and plyos pretty hard. I may have to stop going "Live" at jiu jitsu if I feel there is too much risk in getting injured. But, no sense jumping the gun right now...I'll just take it day by day and week by week.

What I have always known but am finally accepting is that this process is more like a marathon than a sprint...and if I can just keep that in my head and continue to be patient everything will fall into place just the way it's supposed to.

Have a great week! Stay tuned for next week's update!

New Year...Can we try this again?

2011-01-06T16:03:00.004-05:00

Dusting off the old blog to update. I forgot how much I miss posting and meeting new friends on here!

So, after a year and a half I FINALLY have my mind right. In the past 18 months I must have tried to get back on the competition diet wagon 4-5 times with no success. I'm not going to make excuses because I don't have any...other than I wasn't ready to commit.

I started taking kickboxing and jiu jitsu and met some new gal pals. We all have been talking health and fitness for a few weeks now, and right after Christmas I felt like I was ready to start again. My last weekend of eats and drinks was 1/1/11-1/2/11. Monday 1/3/11 was Day 1 and I have not looked back...

A few things I noticed about myself this time around. I didn't freak out when I ran out of the protein shake I wrote into my diet...instead I just subbed in another one. When I slept through my alarm today (Day 4) and missed AM cardio I did not let the rest of my day go to shit. I still packed my meals...and drank my water...in fact it's 5pm and I only have 20oz to go to reach my gallon.

I did experience some "detox" type symptoms...like feeling yucky and having headaches in the morning...but I know it's my body telling me I should eat sugar...I just ignored it and kept it movin'. Today (Day 4) was the first day I did not have the headaches....so I think the worst (for now) is over. I'm sure some day soon in the future will be a craving for something, but right now I'm going strong.

I hope you peeps continue to follow my journey to the competition stage this year. I love the comments and support. Have a healthy day!

xo- Jenn - xo

Sunday Funday, but where is the Sun???

2010-08-15T11:01:00.002-04:00

A bit over cast here in NJ....stinks because Ryan and I did all of our Sunday chores on Saturday with hopes to go to his sister's beach house today...BLAH...I think we are still going to go...but it probably won't be as much fun with out the beach and sun! Oh well!

24 day challenge is going good...except I think I noticed something about me (that I can't believe took this long to figure out...) but...I think I have a serious Dairy issue...without giving you TMI...I don't really get stomach cramps or pains...but I think I do feel puffy and bloated alot after I have it...AND everyone around me (including me) need to invest in a pair of nose plugs...if you get what I'm sayin!!!

So....I'm going to do an experiment...NO DAIRY for today...and maybe even the next 2 or 3 days to see if my "problems" go away. This is going to be hard...no eggs, cheese, yogurt, milk, whey protein (which is 95% of my protein powder stash....thank God for those Tight Curves SOY protein packets I still have!) I don't mean hard as in I can't live without them (ok I love dairy) BUT I'm really going to have to THINK before I put something in my mouth to make sure it's not a dairy product or made with dairy.

I hope after the next few days I get my answer...it is the only think that seems to make sense to me...and actually...I think my mom told me when I was a baby she had to give me soy formula because I couldn't take the milk based ones...I guess I should give her a call too...I just figured 28 years later I would have grown out of that (unless the problem went away and came back?!?)

Anyway...............Spent LOTS of money yesterday on food shopping and got tons of great healthy foods...so now I just have to figure out this week's menu...should be fun!

Goal for this week:
Write 2-3 blog posts to get myself back into it...I do enjoy it...just have to MAKE the time!

Have a great Sunday! Until next time!

After a 3 month break I'm back!

2010-08-06T23:50:00.002-04:00

Hello followers! It's been an eventful 3 months (some ups and some downs) but I'm back and ready to blog again!

It's been over a year since I've trained and prepped for a show...(not that I didn't try to start a prep 3 or 4 times in the last year!!!) and I miss it, but right now I have different responsibilities to take care of that require alot of time and attention.

I haven't been in a gym in over a month...but I have been training kickboxing and jiujitsu with Ryan 2-3 times per week. We also just bought bikes and have been riding them and also kayaking too. I miss weight training alot...I feel so soft!!!

I have been enjoying my summer eating and drinking like a "normal" person...but today I began a "24 day challenge" with my new company, Advocare. (It's not well known in NJ but I know it is pretty popular in Florida and Texas.)

Day One I weighed in at 131. After my 10 day herbal cleanse and the full 24 day challenge I hope to be down 5lbs. Let's see! Today was successful! Be sure to check my YouTube channel for video updates during the challenge...

Off to bed...until next time!!!

Miami Trip Photos

2010-04-23T14:51:00.005-04:00

Our Hotel View From the Room

Our First Day there...YIKES!

I said PLEEEEASE let there be SUN tomorrow!!!

Hotel Bar - The Girls

Hotel Bar - The Boys

Hotel Lobby

Kardashian Store...Nope, didn't buy anything!!!

Funny Manequin with big boobs LOL

Pool Side...YAY...Sun!!

Another View

Lil John the rapper was in that black truck and nasty girls were running over and jumping in...and if they weren't nasty before..they were definitely NASTY after they got out...EWW!

Our Private Cabana that we had all day on the best/nicest day we were there.

The girls at the awards dinner for the hard working men who brought us there!!!

THE END!

Sign the petition if you haven't yet!!! And PASS IT ON!!!

2010-04-23T14:42:00.001-04:00

Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution (<---click to go right to the site)

Ms. Crankypants is gone...at least for the next month!!!

2010-04-16T07:12:00.002-04:00

Well...here I am MUCH better than earlier in the week. Glad I didn't post then because I was a ball of negative energy. I didn't want to spread that to you all...I know this is supposed to be a place where I can be me and be honest...but I know how negative energy is contagious and it wouldn't be fair to knock anyone else down in my misery!

With that being said there are a few changes going on for me.

1) I have decided to forgo the Half Marathon in May. I have not trained for it like I should have been...early on I did, but then as life happens I was running less and less...and my hip flexor has been acting up (the one I injured last year during prep) and after reading Tinamarie's blog over at Fit GreenGoddess and her experience with her half and her hip flexor it mad me think. Do I want to get injured and not be able to compete in fitness? I'm a little bummed but I think it's the best decision right now.

2) I'm taking training day by day because my hip flexor has been hurting after gymnastics and other "hard" workouts...so I have to find other cardio to do besides running because I think that's what's hurts it the most...but that also is what burns the most calories...running...I guess if I'm just meticulous with my diet any cardio will be good...

Well, I leave for Miami on Sunday! Can't believe how fast this year is FLYING BY. Kinda scary...I just told my mom today..."Can you believe I've been out of college for SIX YEARS!??!" I swear it feels like I JUST graduated. Time flies when you get older...remember when you were a kid and 5 minutes felt like a year! HAHA

OK better get my butt moving for work...have to see a potentially new client at 8:30.

Mom always said...

2010-04-12T20:56:00.003-04:00

If you have nothing nice to say then don't say anything at all....so I won't. TOM is coming and I'm TIRED and UNMOTIVATED and I don't want to say anything I"m going to regret in a few days...so when my pissy mood is over I'll be back with something nice to say!

H2O and...what just ran by?

2010-04-07T23:06:00.004-04:00

Some days I feel like I need 2 gallons of water...sometimes I feel like I just NEED MORE! Does that ever happen to you?
So, I go out for my run tonight...(BTW it was like 90 degrees in NJ today...OH YEAH!) So I'm running my 30 minutes around my mom's development...I have about 10 minutes to go and I'm running past the club house and pool...approaching the dumpster, when...WHAT THE? HOLY CRAP...a RACCOON freaking DARTS out in front of me HAULING ASS across the parking lot...I was FREAKED OUT HAHA! I definitely PICKED UP THE PACE...I was picturing punting the little sucker if it came after me...LMAO...just like a foot ball...OMG so crazy!
Oh, and a BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MARY!!!!!!!

My body is tired from the inside out...does that make sense?

2010-04-06T22:45:00.002-04:00

Ok...so I started the "new" old job yesterday and I still feel just as happy and excited as I did when the position was offered back to me. I'm just waiting to be hooked up with the computer log in and email and I'm all set!

A bit of news: This Saturday is the NPC Suburban and I have 2 clients competing. I am SO EXCITED for both of them! They both followed their workouts plans and meal plans and now they get to show EVERYONE their HARD WORK! I'm going to be like a proud mom HAHA!

My workouts have been PRETTY intense the last 2 days...and I mean INTENSE. I no longer have 2-3 hours in the gym anymore like last prep to get it done so I have to GET IN AND GET OUT...my workouts have been SUPER efficient and I like it that way...60 minutes...DONE (both cardio AND weights.) The last 2 nights after the gym I was STILL feeling the complete ASS KICKING I gave myself for hours after coming home...have you ever felt like that? I take NO breaks between my triple sets AT ALL...I just go, go, go, go and get done in 30 minutes...then I go RIGHT to the treadmill and run for 30 minutes. It's seriously almost like 60 minutes of cardio since I am movin' from one thing to the next and even have plyos added in the mix.

Monday was Hamstrings/Glutes/Calfs/Plyos + 30 min run (I also did 30 min run in the morning outside)

Today was Chest/Plyos + 30 min run (and I also did a 20 minute yoga "On Demand" this morning, which SUCKED BTW...I'll have to do a different one next time...so glad that have like a million to choose from!)

Tomorrow is Bis/Tris/Shoulders (I'm sure I worked plyos in there somewhere) + 30 min run.

Thursday is 45 min Run + Gymnastics

I'm guessing Friday is Back/Abs but I don't have my workout schedule in front of me.

Started taking the Con-Cret creatine and it's only been 2 days so I don't want to say anything just yet. I'll give you a report after about a week of taking it.

This past Sat we went to watch the IFBB Pro Fitness/NPC Mets. There were actually 4 amature fitness girls...WTF!?! Why can't there be that many when I compete! Geesh...I want to compete against more than 1 or 2 people! And I'm going to be perfectly honest their routines were not impressive...but that is JUST MY OPINION! I am a bit of a SNOB when it comes to routines. I know my strength is my routine and my physique is my challenge. I was like...DAMN I should have been up there...but shoulda, coulda, woulda, I wasn't...BUT it AMPED me up for staying STRONG on my prep and working really hard in the gym and on my routine.

How was everyone's Easter? Mine was great! Well...sleep is calling and I must answer!

GOOD NIGHT!

Beautiful House for Sale/Rent! Fully Furnished!

2010-04-05T22:36:00.002-04:00

Do you know of anyone looking for a vacation rental, summer home, or to move to the Nags Head area of the Outer Banks? My friend Tara's parents want to move back to NJ and are looking for motivated buyers/renters. Here’s the link to their listing:

http://www.realestateouterbanks.org/idx/residential/65805/details.html

They are selling it fully furnished, so you could rent it out / move in the next day! Photos of the inside of the house are on the listing.

I actually did this in Yoga class today!!! Just had to share!

2010-04-04T21:48:00.002-04:00

And the big news is.....

2010-04-02T22:25:00.003-04:00

Remember a few post back I wrote that I had some really big events planned in just about every month up until July of 2010 except March? Well...let's just say I thought I was going to go through March without a big event until Tuesday, March 30th...

So, I wake up on Tuesday and make my way over to an expo put on by my old company...(quick recap from 2006-2008 I worked as a radio sales person...I LOVED THE JOB...but, when my "big boss" left our market and went to a different market and a new manager stepped in all HELL broke loose! At that time I decided it was time for me to move on to other things...) no back to Tuesday...I walk in to the expo and see lots of people I used to work with...all smiles and hellos...and then my old "big boss" (who now is back in the same market I used to work in) turns around and sees me for the first time in probably 2 years...and with the biggest smile on his face exclaims "Irish!" (that's what he called me...) and gave me a big hug...So...long story short he asks me what I'm doing now and I tell him (actually I flash my business card...I was a sales rep for a pest control company...ohhhh exciting...) He sees the card and laughs and says..."Pest control...come on...why don't you come back to us...I have some openings and if you want your job back just say the word and it's yours"

HALLELUJAH!!!! (Hear the angles singing???)

This brings me to the new and exciting news...I ACCEPTED THE OFFER...and I'm going back to my old job at the radio station!!!

So, I know this might not sound very "Health and Fitness" related...and my blog is usually all about that...but it is...and I'll tell you why:

At one point in my life I was VERY passionate about communications and advertising and marketing (hello...that's what my college degree is in) and then later in life my passion became health and fitness...and I wanted to be a business owner SO BAD...that all of 2009 I ran my own business...and IT WAS HARD...who just decides to QUIT her job with regular pay and benefits to start a business with what's in her bank account...ME! Why? Because I had PASSION, DRIVE, and DETERMINATION to do it...and do it well.

As everyone knows the economy hasn't been the best in the last few years so I was forced to pick up full time work again when my training business slowed down...so when I sent out resumes and interviewed and got the "bug job" I was excited because it was good pay and benefits...but what I didn't realize until 3 months in was that I REALLY HATED IT...I thought I liked selling...and I do...but if I am not PASSIONATE about the product or service I CAN'T sell it...if I don't care about it...if it doesn't EXCITE me I can't do it...I get EXCITED about marketing and I get EXCITED about health and fitness...sooooo

Now I can fuse the two together...I can work on projects and campaigns that focus on health and fitness in my COMMUNITY and get other trainers, and doctors, and "pro-health" professionals involved and utilize the radio station and all of its resources (events, websites, multi media, etc) to help me SPREAD THE WORD.

I know this is a bit long, but I think it needed some explanation...if you've read this far, congrats! and thanks!

I start Monday, and I couldn't be HAPPIER...now maybe my contest prep will go better because I don't have the STRESS of HATING MY JOB sitting in the back of my mind!

Everyone have a HAPPY EASTER! Off to NPC Mets/PRO Fitness tomorrow in NYC...SO EXCITED! I'll be back with a full report!

xoxo

Hot Stone Massage....

2010-03-31T22:20:00.002-04:00

OMG...did you ever have one!??! If not you DEFINITELY SHOULD! I have gotten many massages but this was a first today...and let me tell you it was LOVELY! (And I'm getting another one tomorrow...but for 90 minutes!!!!!!! Today was only 50min...HEAVEN!) Next time you need to reward yourself do this...and don't feel bad about it! Just remember "Jenn said to do it!"

It was part in celebration (of the news I still won't share until Friday! LOL) and part for recovery from working out.

K-I-L-L-E-D it in the gym tonight...maybe it was my music...maybe it was the Tight Curves Top Secret I took before I started...or maybe it was just my natural HIGH from all this good stuff going on around me? Probably a little of everything.

Here's my workout...

30 min run on treadmill = 3 miles

Back/Abs/Plyos

Triple Set 1: Assisted wide grip Pull Ups 10x + Op Arm/Op Leg Lift (over exercise ball) holding 2.5lbs in each hand 10x + Leg lifts for lower abs holding 10lb DB in feet 10x (Did this triple set 3 times)

Triple Set 2: Behind neck pull downs 15x + Sgl Arm DB Row 10x + Burpees holding 10lb dbs 10x (Did 3 times around)

Triple Set 3: Cable rows 10x + Renegade Row 10x + High Knee Running in place :30 sec (Did this 3 times around)

I was in and out in 60 minutes! I took NO BREAKS during my lifting and lucky for me I didn't have to wait for equipment. One thing I noticed about myself this time was I didn't put too much pressure on myself to lift so much...I mean I did try to lift heavy...but instead of getting in over my head I just moved down a plate or weight and kept it moving without feeling like a LOSER. I know I'll get my strength back up to where it was last time mid prep...it's just going to take TIME...and when I get my Con-Cret creatine product that should help with my rest, recovery, and strength in the gym.

Tomorrow I plan to run 45 mins and have gymnastics for a hour at night....whew! I am SPENT...off to sweet dreams for me...until tomorrow!!!

Inspiration for all Fitness/Figure Competitors and Hopefuls

2010-03-31T14:58:00.002-04:00

View My friend Jen's latest video blog: Made Fit TV - Episode 91

So excited...

2010-03-31T13:27:00.002-04:00

In celebration I had some chocolate...I'm sorry! News coming Friday...

Waiting to Exhale...

2010-03-30T13:12:00.003-04:00

I think I'm almost ready (to exhale)...a portion of my anxiety from the last few weeks will be coming to a close...and as soon as I have official word...I WILL EXHALE...and keep moving forward.

That's all I'm going to say for now...

108 Sun Salutations - And More Entertaining Yoga Stories

2010-03-29T22:42:00.006-04:00

I've been doing ALOT of yoga lately...and WHO KNEW it could be SO HARD!?! I originally started going a few years back to get in some light stretching and to get rid of stress...and it was always great for that...but ever since I signed up for unlimited classes at the studio near me I've been trying all different kinds...

So, Saturday they had a 2 hour class which started with 108 Sun Salutations followed up with a gentle class after...if you are not familiar with yoga or sun salutations I'll explain to you the version we did (since there are many) You start standing...reach your arms above your head and bend back into a slight back bend then hinging from the hips swan dive down to a standing forward fold...come up half way...back down into the full froward fold...then hop feet back into a push up position...then lower down to the floor by doing a tricep push up (elbows tucked in close to body) then up into a cobra stretch...push back into a downward facing dog and hop feet back in to a standing forward fold then come up slow to standing with arms stretched above head returning hands to heat in prayer position... (whew!) and then go again...and again...and again until you complete 108 of them...in a row...(in simple terms...almost like doing a combo squat thrust with a tricep push up over and over again.)

Now, in yoga you are "not in competition" and can stop and rest at anytime or do only as many as you can...HAHA YEAH RIGHT..."F" THAT! I was going to do all freakin 108 of them if it KILLED ME! I am HAPPY to say it DID NOT KILL ME and I was one of two who kept up with the instructor and did ALL 108!!! I was SWEATING MY ASS OFF...and I was seriously sore in the morning...actually it's Monday and my hammies are STILL just as sore (maybe more) than any leg workout I've done!!!

I decide to return to yoga with a client/friend the next night for a easy class. Well, it was PACKED...and we were all sitting very close to one another...the lady in front of me, no lie, had her big NASTY THONG sticking out of her pants THE WHOLE CLASS and her ASS was like in my face the whole time since I was behind her!!!

THEN...the women sitting next to Krystal starts to FART in the middle of class...I swear like 3 or 4 times...I couldn't even look over at Krystal or I would LOSE IT and we would NEVER STOP LAUGHING...they probably would have kicked us out!!!

OMG...so THAT was my yoga weekend! HAHA!

15 week to TEAM U!!!

Turkey Meatball Recipe

2010-03-26T23:01:00.002-04:00

Ingredients:

1lb extra lean ground turkey
2 egg whites
1/2 cup oats
1/4 cup crumbled reduced fat feta cheese
1 teaspoon low sodium soy sauce

Directions:
Combine all ingredients and make 15 meatballs. Bake for 20 minutes at 425

3 meatballs per serving
Calories: 175
Fat: 2.18
Carbs: 12.76
Protein: 25.88

Old Favorites, New Favorites, & Future Favorites

2010-03-26T16:55:00.008-04:00

Old Favorite: I love my Tight Curves shaker cup best out of all the ones I have. I'm even considering buying another one!

New Favorite #1: Turkey Meatballs and Broccoli/Cauliflower mix sprinkled with a little Parmesan cheese (Turkey Meatball recipe to follow in the next post)

New Favorite #2 - Coconut Oil (Thanks Genie for introducing me to this one!)

New Favorite # 3 - Tight Curves Top Secret (to order go to tightcurves.net and use coupon code TCTM0709 to save 25% on your order)
Future Favorite (hopefully): Con-Cret. Creatine product I am dying to try. Just got the e-mail from Amazon saying it's been shipped so as soon as I start using it I will give a review. Off to yoga for 2 hours...write more later!

Roller Coaster Ride

2010-03-26T10:08:00.005-04:00

That pretty much sums up my week...more so in terms of events and emotions...believe it or not I was IRON CLAD STRONG through my diet and IT SHOWS...It's amazing how 1 week of COMPLIANCE can change your physique since last Monday (3/15/10) I'm down over 6lbs! Very motivational and exactly what I need right now. I know most is probably water weight and that's OK I'm happy to be UNDER 130 (even though it's only by a half a pound!)

This is my confession to Genie...Monday & Tuesday were 5:30am days like we planned...Wednesday-Friday NOT SO MUCH...I know there should be NO EXCUSES, but in reality there are. Wednesday I was seriously in pain in my biceps from my Monday & Tuesday workouts...not the "Ohhh that's sore but I can work through it" kind of pain but the "I think I might have totally OVER DONE IT" kind of pain and this early in the game I didn't want to set my self back with an injury. Thursday, I shut my alarm off in my sleep so I never ended up waking up in time!!! And today (Friday) I decided to work from home so I have all day to get my workouts in...(On Wed & Thurs I still worked out...just not in the AM...cardio but no lifting)

That brings me to the next hump in my roller coaster...WORK. I have a PASSION for health and fitness...my whole BEING LIGHTS UP when I step foot into a gym or training facility. I have a brand new job right now (and believe me I'm thankful for it but) it's NOT what I want to do because it doesn't make me HAPPY. I decided to have a mini freak out and called and told my boyfriend about my anxiety with work...which LOOOONG story short didn't turn out the way I wanted which leads to the NEXT hump in my roller coaster...TROUBLE IN PARADISE...I don't need to elaborate on that...I'm sure you guys know how that can effect you mentally...

The day after my "I hate my job" freak out I go out on the road with my boss (I'm in a sales position) and things are on the Up and UP...it's like meeting with your trainer after you had a bad day or week of eating and working out...after you meet with them they remind you why you are doing what you are doing and refocus you and point you in the right direction again...exactly what I needed...then HUMP...TROUBLE IN PARADISE...AGAIN...SIGH...

So, here I am Friday morning...feeling BLAH and trying to get myself together...start my day on the scale...and as stated above, I am VERY HAPPY going into the weekend...so I am hoping and praying for a better week next week!

There are a few more things I want to write about, but I have to get ready to meet with a few clients...I'll be back later today to write...I'll be like Genie who posts like 3 times a day (THANK GOD for that! It keeps me entertained through out the day!)

Be back later....

Biceps - OUCH!

2010-03-23T22:08:00.002-04:00

WOW...I'm TIRED! Both sleepy and body exhaustion. Today is day 2 of absolute compliance on my prep plan (wow, it's REALLY only Tuesday!?!?)...and between work, training clients, and my own workouts it's catching up! BUT...I have not lost motivation at all...I haven't even weighed in yet because I want to wait until a Friday because I KNOW that I will have a significant drop, which will keep me motivated going into weekend.

Met with my Bikini client today and she looks GREAT! I'm very excited for her! I also need to meet with my Master's Figure client to go over posing...she just got her suit and I can't wait to see it!!! They both have made great progress!!!

Today I woke up at 5:30 and did my morning workout...a full body circuit...but I didn't have time to run my 4 miles so I went back to sleep for a little after my workout and breakfast. Today was SUPER busy and after the 3 clients I had tonight I missed the Yoga class I wanted to go to at 8pm...but it's all good because I ended up running my 4 miles instead...which I think was a good choice.

It's 10:25pm and I still have to write up tomorrow's plans...so I better do that so I can go to bed...YAWN!!

10:30PM BED TIME!

2010-03-22T21:39:00.004-04:00

It's 9:42pm and I want to go to bed by 10:30 so this is going to be a quick recap...

6:30am - YOGA...can you say PRIVATE CLASS!?!? It was just me and my favorite yoga teacher!

Meals for the day:

Meal 1 - 3 egg whites + 1 yolk and 1/4 cup oats

Meal 2 - Plain Fat Free Greek Yogurt + 1 packet Tight Curves Chocolate mixed in (looked really good, but only ate about 3/4 of it.)

Meal 3 - Turkey Meatballs, Broccoli/Cauliflower mix, and almonds

Meal 4 - 2.5 packet of Tuna and peanut butter (not mixed together! EWWW that would be nasty!)

Meal 5 - Turkey Meatballs, 2oz whole wheat pasta, 1/4 cup marinara

PM workout was back and bis with cardio bursts in between super/triple sets (mountain climbers, burpees, jumping jacks)

I'll post tomorrow's meals and workouts tomorrow...now I'm off to sleep...another part of the PLAN...(probably the BEST PART!!!) Night all!

Genetics

2010-03-21T22:09:00.002-04:00

Today I went to yoga for 2 hours...1 moderate class and 1 gentle class...it was a great way to start the day...but one thing I noticed (which I probably SHOULDN'T HAVE since I was supposed to only be paying attention to MYSELF and FOCUSING MY MIND...but I'm human! And my mind was wondering a bit!)

In the moderate class there were mostly younger people. I noticed there was this one girl who was SUPER skinny...don't get me wrong...she looked fairly fit...I could see some muscle on her...but I started to think to myself, I would NEVER look like that...actually, I DON'T WANT to look like that. Then in the gentle class it was mostly older women...who were soft and somewhat over weight...and I though to myself, I DON'T WANT to look like that when I'm older...then that got me thinking...

Getting your "perfect" body is not always going to be easy...if your mom and grandma have big thighs and a big butt...you are probably going to have that too (ummm that would be ME!)...but if your mom and dad are bean poles, you'll probably look like that too...

Does that mean that the "bean poles" have it easier? NO...the bean poles probably have a harder time GAINING muscle and size...where as the big butt and heavy thigh person has a harder time losing FAT...

No one has it EASY...No matter what your body type it's going to take TIME and EFFORT to get the "PERFECT" body...YOUR perfect body...so remember that every time you are in the gym or planning your meals for the week...think about what is going to HELP you and what is going to SET YOU BACK....and then make the BEST choice for YOU in order to get you closer to your PERFECT BODY!

Spring has Sprung...

2010-03-20T22:50:00.002-04:00

March 20, 2010...the FIRST DAY OF SPRING...and it couldn't have been BETTER! I think we got close to 80 today here in NJ...I've been waiting ALL WINTER for this!

Today was a food shopping day...love shopping on the weekends and filling my fridge and cabinets with food for the week. I have lots of recipes I plan to try this week so I will share if they come out good!

We launched our other 2 kayaks today and took them for a ride...a LOOOOONG ride...I think we were out for like an hour and a half...and I don't know nautical miles...but in "regular drive the car" type miles we had to have done almost 5...Ryan and I were both exhausted after that! (Not to mention soaked!)

I plan to do my early wake ups this week with Genie again...as I am now 16 weeks out from Team U. I have ALOT of work to do to get there...but like my last post said...be consistent and trust the system!

Speaking of that...I have 2 clients who are 3 weeks out from their first shows. One is doing Bikini and the other is doing Master's Figure. They both have been consistent with the workouts and meal plans I gave them...and BOY DOES IT SHOW...I am so HAPPY and EXCITED for them and the progress they have made...I know in 3 weeks they will be so ready for stage!!!

Off to make some Protein Peanut Butter Balls courtesy of my friend Jen at Made Fit TV. You have GOT to check out her weekly episodes on health and fitness...very good quality and very entertaining!

Consistency...

2010-03-19T15:18:00.007-04:00

I listened to a few podcasts yesterday and the common theme between the fitness and figure pros interviewed was “CONSISTENCY.” If you want to have a career in the fitness industry (whether that be a competition career or an actual job) you have to have a plan and follow it CONSISTENTLY in order for it to work…TRUST the SYSTEM and be CONSIST ANT.

I STILL have a problem trusting the system sometimes. I think it's mostly because I'm not patient and I want everything NOW. But like the saying goes...anything worth having is worth waiting for...right!?!?

Set a plan and FOLLOW IT…NO EXCUSE NOT TO…PLAN, PLAN, PLAN, and FOLLOW, FOLLOW, FOLLOW.

If you have foods you are NOT LOOKING FORWARD TO you are NOT GOING TO BE CONSISTENT because you are NOT GOING TO EAT IT. Figure out a way to put foods on that plan you will like, and eat CONSISTENTLY!

Do you ever think: "WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME THAT I CAN NOT JUST FOCUS AND DO THIS? I’M SICK OF WAKING UP ON SUNDAY OR MONDAY SAYING: “This is going to be the start of a successful plan…” then only make it to Wednesday…give up and start over again on Sunday/Monday…PEOPLE DO IT…WHY CAN’T I!?!?"

Well, you're not alone...I feel like that too...I'm sure most everyone does at the start of a LONG journey to a HUGE goal. But just remember...BE CONSISTENT and TRUST THE SYSTEM.!

Technical Difficulties...and SAVE FITNESS NOW!

2010-03-17T15:32:00.003-04:00

Back to a BORING template due to some technical difficulties! Apparently the fancy one wouldn't let you comment!

Anyway...VERY IMPORTANT NEWS!!! Please follow the blog SAVE FITNESS NOW and post it EVERYWHERE YOU CAN!!!

Some of you may (or may not) be members on siouxcountry.com...but there have been many posts lately regarding the lack of support of the IFBB/NPC Fitness division...(not from fans, but competitors themselves) because there have been a lack of entries into shows. Lack of entries mean promoters won't offer it and if promoters don't offer it OUR SPORT MIGHT DIE!

I AM A FITNESS COMPETITOR....anyone who reads or follows my blog knows this! (HELLO, it's the NAME of my blog! LOL)and I would REALLY like to go pro one day...I would also like to show up to a contest and compete against MORE THAN 1 or 2 other girls...I work JUST AS HARD and JUST as long as figure girls...and most figure divisions have 10+ girls!!!

In an effort to SAVE FITNESS, IFBB and NPC Fitness competitors (and the fans who love us!!!) have come together to campaign to SAVE OUR SPORT.

If ANYONE and I mean ANYONE has questions about fitness...would like to try fitness...or knows someone who would LOVE FITNESS please, please, PLEASE send them my way!!! I would be HAPPY TO HELP! No you don't need to do gymnastics...no you don't need to be a dancer...you just need to know how to HAVE FUN and ENTERTAIN!!!

Other Fitness Competitors you can follow:

Did You Ever Make A Mistake That Ended Up Being Awesome?

2010-03-16T22:27:00.004-04:00

I did!!! Tonight after my run I had no more chicken cooked and I was just SO HUNGRY I wanted something QUICK...I've been dying to try the Tight Curves Brownies...so I look up the recipe and see it only takes about 10 minutes...PERFECT! Brownies for dinner!?!? Who wouldn't?

So...I'm getting my eggs ready in my blender and open my first packet pour it in...open the second packet and pour that in...HEY WAIT A MINUTE...why is this packet so much DARKER than the other packet I just put in? Then I look at the package...OOPS! The first one was the Berry packet...

I also had another OOPS...the recipe recommended a 8inx8in pan and I had a 9inx9in so my pan wasn't quite full...no problem...I just added 3 more egg whites, 1 more whole egg, and one more CHOCOLATE protein packet...lightly coated my pan with coconut oil instead of non cook spray and cooked for 15 minutes...DELISH! I even added a little coconut oil to the top when they came out still WARM and it melted LIKE BUTTER! The only thing I might add next time is a packet or two of Truvia (which I had, but didn't think to add.)

Oh...and another thing...I had a small snack of a few rice cakes and peanut butter before my full body circuit workout...but after that I was scheduled to run 4 miles and I didn't have time to eat anything (nor did I want to if I was running that long!!!) So...I decided to pop 2 Top Secret instead...on the directions it says other than before meals you can take before a workout for added energy...HELLOOOOOOOO...it totally worked...I wasn't like running super fast (between a 5.0-5.7 on the treadmill), but the wall never kicked in (like it usually does around 20 mins into a run) and I felt GREAT the WHOLE 45 minutes...

I am a member of Team Tight Curves and you can be too!!! Just send me (or post below) your email address and I'll send you an invite! It doesn't cost ANYTHING to join and you get to save 25% on all products! I'll even share the promo code with you NOW: TCTM0709. Go to tightcurves.net to view and order products!

Day 2 of my contest prep is complete and was successful! I hope you are following your plans to achieve YOUR GOALS!

Hot Shower...I Love You!!!

2010-03-15T19:31:00.004-04:00

Success...Day 1 of Week 1 (out of 17 weeks) complete, and it was interesting. Woke up at 5:30am like Genie and I had planned to...and text her first thing...no text back...(until I found out later that she actually HAD text me, as did some other people, but my phone stopped accepting text, some time on FRIDAY and I am just finding this out now! WTF!!!)

Anyway...woke up and made my black coffee & breakfast of 2 slices of Ezekiel bread dry, 3 egg whites & 1 yolk...ate and made my way to 6:30am Yoga...how AWESOME...just me and one other girl there with the OWNER of the studio leading...almost like a private lesson for an hour from someone who has been practicing Yoga for like 20 years. AWESOME.

Came home with just enough time to email my boss the previous week’s sales numbers and get on a 30 minute conference call as I drove to train a client. Trained my client at 9am for a half hour then came home and ate meal 2 (Chicken, green beans and brown rice) then started making some phone calls for work (I love working from home...I didn't even get out of my sweats!)

After Meal 3 I was NOT looking forward to Meal 4...and after meal 4 I thought I was going to PUKE...I forgot what it was like to eat this way! (Not to mention last prep I did all of my working out in the AM so it was easy to eat my meals because I was STARVING!!! Today I didn't get to the gym for my 2 miles and legs/abs until AFTER Meal 4 around 5:45-6pm.)

So, this gym I signed up for...Pro Body Fitness...the one that doesn't have contracts...yeah, it also doesn't really have any GIRLS...and I can't yet tell if the guys are looking at me like "WTF is that girl doing in here?" or if they are thinking "Holy Sh*t that girl knows what she is doing!" Either way I don't care because I'm there to do a job and not make friends or find a date...besides I know the owner (he use to be one of my clients when I sold radio advertising) so I'm sure if I have any problems I can just let him know...I doubt the guys will say anything to me...but I have NO PROBLEM telling them where to go if they do...if you know what I mean! LOL

Right now I am just looking forward to my HOT SHOWER and eating Meal 5. I have Meal 6 planned which is really not a meal...just a shake...and I think I might actually skip it...I don't think I need it...without it I'm still over 1500 calories, and I'm not hungry! SO, no sense forcing it.

Be back with an update tomorrow...

KAYAKING!!!!!! And my plans for the week...

2010-03-14T17:15:00.000-04:00

Last year Ryan and I went kayaking for the first time and FELL IN LOVE WITH IT! So, what did we do? We bought kayaks! 4 to be exact!!! This way we can go out with friends! We just picked them up today so we HAD to try them out...lucky for us we only live about a quarter mile from the water so we carried them down, hopped in and took a ride! It stated to rain so we only stayed out for about 30 minutes...but between paddling and carrying the kayaks to and from the water...Id say it was a good 45-60 minute workout! (My forearms and triceps were BURNING from carrying them...my grip strength is CRAP!)

So...like I said in my last post...I'm 17 weeks out from Team U. I figured NOW is a good time to start my prep. As we all know organization is KEY...so I hope this little idea I have works and keeps me on task:

- I bought one of those huge desk calendars. I'm writing all of my workouts and meals for each day and posting the current month on the fridge so I have to look at it EVERYDAY and have NO question as to what it is I have to do...no guessing because it's in plain sight.

- My first 4 weeks of workouts are written as is my first 3 weeks of meals. Of course the meal plan will vary depending on if asparagus is on sale vs broccoli or tilapia is on sale vs chicken.

- Genie and I also have made a pact to text each other every morning (M-F) to make sure each of us is up and ready to go for AM workouts...I've been having a hard time getting up early, so I hope this helps!!! If anyone else is on East Coast Time and wants in on a 5:30am wake up call let us know and we can add you to the list!!!

It's been almost a year since I last competed...and since my "Confessions of a Secret Binge Eater...The Dark Side of Competition Dieting" blog entry...right now I'm READY to ROCK AND ROLL...my head is IN THE GAME! And I'm aiming for that PRO CARD! Thanks for following and CHEERING ME ON!

Some help please!!!

2010-03-10T08:14:00.001-05:00

17.5 weeks until TEAM U

7.5 weeks until my FIRST HALF MARATHON

I need suggestions on a major and exciting event for MARCH 2010!!!

In Jan - I Got a job with good pay and benefits

In Feb - I bought a house

In March - I HAVE NOTHING!

In April - I have a vacation for Miami

In May - I have my Half Marathon

In June - I have my sister's wedding

In July - I have TEAM U

PLEASE HELP ME FILL IN MARCH!!!!!! Thanks!

OUR CUTE LITTLE HOUSE!!!

2010-02-23T16:00:00.001-05:00

YAY!!! DO YOU SEE THE DETACHED GARAGE!?!? THAT WILL BE MY NEW GYM!!! I CAN'T WAIT TO START BUILDING AND DECORATING AND BUYING EQUIPMENT!!!

As soon as we are moved in I'll take pics of the inside too!!!

Excited and Annoyed...

2010-02-22T17:28:00.000-05:00

I'm excited for the same reason why I am annoyed...we were supposed to close on the house today, but (grrr) something is holding it up and it might not happen until tomorrow!!! I just want MY OWN KITCHEN!!!!! Waaahh!

So this past Friday I was supposed to run 7 miles for my half marathon training program but had such a busy day at work and with clients I was too tired...so I did it Saturday morning...

Went to this local walking/jogging "track" since I did not want to do 7 miles on the dreaded treadmill! The track is 1.6 miles around and marked off every quarter mile...which I was psyched about so I could keep an eye on my pace.

I started with a half mile walk warm up...as soon as i hit .50 I took off for the run and didn't stop until I was finished...(what was I listening to, you wonder for a 7 mile long a$$ run? Well, ABBA cardio remix, of course! LMAO!!!! I am really serious HAHA)

Anyway...I finish and feel great...get back to my car to figure out my laps and times...when...wait a minute...what the heck...that can't be right!!! OMG, I AM AN IDIOT!!! I ended up RUNNING 7.5 miles...and with the half mile walk made for an 8 mile day!!!! HOLY CRAP HAHAH!

At :60 mins my watch stopped timing (and I wasn't done running) so I had to restart it...so there was about a minute or so that's not accounted for...but I noticed at each quarter mile I was running between 2:20 and 2:30 for each quarter mile. I do know that at 5.9 miles I was at 56:29...and at 6.15 miles I was at 58:56...I was somewhere around 10 minutes per mile...maybe a little under that...either way I'm happy and feel accomplished...I never ran that far before ever...and WITHOUT STOPPING!!!!!!

My current training schedule looks like this (usually only 1 day off which is either Sat or Sun, but with the long runs getting LOOOONGER I may take Friday's off and do the long run on Sat morning):

Sun: Yoga or REST

Mon: Run

Tue: Yoga

Wed: Run

Thurs: Gymnastics

Fri: Run

Sat: Yoga or REST

I noticed now that my half marathon program calls for 15-20 minutes of weight training after my Monday run...

Ok, quick nap before my client...then a networking meeting...then 4 miles and weight training.

Until Next Time!

The last few months in 200 words or less...

2010-02-15T23:00:00.001-05:00

I'm mad at myself for not keeping up. The last few months of 2009 have been tough but 2010 has been nothing but GREAT so let's talk about the positive.

1) Got a full time job (yay for benefits! yay for a regular paycheck!)

2) About this close (holding thumb and pointer about 1 inch apart) from closing on our first house! SOOOOO STRESSFUL!

3) Entered the Bodysport.com 12 week transformation contest for fun.

4) Officially started my training for the half marathon! Running 3x per week.

5) Signed up for gymnastics again. Tumbling 1x per week.

6) Signed up for Yoga to help with strength and flexibility. Going 2-3x per week.

7) Currently training a few clients for the 2010 competition season! Looking forward to growing my team!

8) Updated my website!!! http://www.fitnessjenn.com/

9) Totally need to shout out Doneker at COMPLETE MOTIVATION. Months ago she sent me a shirt from her new clothing line and I am SO THANKFUL for it! I will post pictures of me in the shirt so you can see! For now PLEASE VISIT HER SITE: http://www.completemotivation.com/

10) I vow to be a better blogger! Here's to an awesome 2010!

Until Next Time!

My drugstore run...ladies you'll love this....

2009-12-14T20:46:00.002-05:00

Not too shabby!

2009-12-02T22:38:00.000-05:00

So, yesterday was my day 2 of week 1 for my half marathon training and I had to run 3 miles. It was all I had to do so I decided I would run it the best and hardest I could...besides, I was interested to see where my "starting point" was anyway.

QUITE SURPRISED! I ran 3 miles in 27:10!!!! Honestly, when I ran X-C (that's cross country if you weren't sure!) in high school...I usually ran in the 26-ish or 27-ish time frame for 3.2 miles...and that was WITH running practice EVERYDAY after school....so I'm happy with a 27:10 starting point! I am just excited to get better and better and faster and faster!

YAY!

I don't know if you do this...but I do...I constantly look at the treadmill next to me to see how fast the next person is going and I play these stupid mind games with myself...thinking..."Oh no, that girl is NOT going to run faster than ME!"

I'm so weird.

More updates to come!

Yes...I...am...SORE...

2009-12-01T15:43:00.000-05:00

So, yesterday was day 1 of my first 12 week training for the half marathon...Day 1 = Strength and Stretching. Man...I was so mentally ready to just RUN...

But, I did what I was told...and did the following:

Push ups (10-1)
Unassisted Dip (10-1)
Full Sit Up (10-1)
Reverse Crunch (10-1)

Set 1 = 10 push ups, 10 unassisted dips, 10 full sit ups, and 10 reverse crunches
Set 2 = 9 push ups, 9 unassisted dips, 9 full sit ups, and 9 reverse crunches
Etc
Etc
Etc

I think you see the pattern...it ends up being 55 of everything: 55 push ups, 55 dips, 55 sit ups, and 55 reverse crunch.

My chest is so sore and so are the front part of my shoulders...I would bet from the unassisted dip...I kinda felt it, even during the workout...gotta get back into the swing of things!

Today is just 3 miles...simple...I'll report back with my time. Probably nothing too fast right now...

Until next time...

The first 12 weeks start TODAY!

2009-11-30T17:39:00.000-05:00

Ok...don't get excited...I'm not talking about my diet! LOL

This week I am 22 weeks out from the NJ Half Marathon that I plan on running Sunday, May 2, 2010!!!

I plan on training in 2 segments...the first part will be 12 weeks...and then the second part will be 10 weeks. The first 12 weeks I will be following a "Novice" half marathon training program. The next 10 weeks I will jump into an "Intermediate" half marathon training program.

I will begin my fitness competition prep (diet) when I start the 10 week training program. With this first 12 weeks, I hope to be down about 10-12 lbs from now so that when I start dieting around Feb 28th I won't have much more to lose (maybe only 5-7lbs more...considering Feb 28th is 20 weeks out from Team U 2010!!!)

Tonight is day 1 of Half Marathon Training and get this...it's not even running!! My first running day is tomorrow! Haha...today is strength and stretching...ha! I can certainly handle that!

I should be blogging more now that I'll have something specific to write about.

Until next time!!!!!!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2009-11-26T10:29:00.001-05:00

O - M - G!!!

2009-11-23T16:17:00.000-05:00

Lots of OMGs! First...I haven't written since 11/8/09! WHAT!!!!!! It's almost December...man I need to keep up....what the heck!

Second OMG...TEAM U MOVED TO JULY!!!!!!!!!!!! AND NJ!!!!!!!!!!! Ok...so my 365 plan just go cut short by 2 months...but it's ok...I can handle it...I already counted back and I have plenty of time to prepare. I still have my goal of running that half marathon...so training will be FINE! Just gotta get back on those routine tricks ASAP! Yoga...ASAP! Eating clean ASA...wait...I'm not eating BAD...but it IS the holidays...and I want all the goodies! Seriously though...Feb 28th is 20 weeks out from Team U...I marked it on my calendar so I know when to start...that means 14 more weeks of "freedom"...but Team U is just 6 weeks AFTER my sister's wedding...hmmmm...wonder if I'll still be allowed a cheat meal that close??? Oh, well...we'll see!

Third OMG...MARY IS COMPETING AT THE ARNOLD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That is OMGx10!!! PLEASE cheer her on the next 15 weeks...(even though, I think most of you follow her blog and cheer her on already!)

Ok...I was kindly "tagged" in a list of 10 truths by my friend Genie (You may know her! LOL) and I promised I would follow though! Here it goes:

1) With the exception of my standing back hand spring and my full twisting back flip...I taught myself all of the gymnastics I know on the playground or on my front lawn in 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th grade. No mat...no spotter...just a crazy and determined 8 year old...haha

2) I have a black belt in Isshinryu Karate...I don't like to tell people...but my boyfriends always does. It's one of those things people don't REALLY need to know...plus it looks like bragging or something...and I only brag to close friends and family...I consider my blogger friends close...so there...I just bragged...lol

3) My YOUNGER sister (by 5 years) is getting married BEFORE me.

4) I'm only 28 and I'm on my 4th car (is that alot?) I bought my first one with baby sitting money...it was a used 1987 red Hyundai Excel with NO AIR and power NOTHING...the second was a gift from my parent for high school graduation because I got academic and athletic scholarships to college...it was a brand new white Daewoo Hatchback...the 3rd one I bought because my 2nd one died after only 4 years and I bought it on my own with no co-signer...it was a tan Cavalier...and my 4th car I bought...on my own again...because the Cavalier had over 100,000 miles on it and I didn't feel like fixing anything, so I just went and bought a new one! LOL this one is a Blue Hyundai Accent Hatchback.

5) (Wow...I'm only on 5...have you actually read this far?) As I get older I get more and more motion sick on rides...as a kid I could go on roller coasters all day long...now if I look at one too long I get nauseous!

6) I love to melt mini marshmallows and peanut butter together in the microwave and put it on Ritz crackers (the clean up is a MESS, btw if you go and try it!)

7) I didn't have my first alcoholic drink until AFTER college when I was 23.

8) I LOVE Nutella and can probably eat the whole jar with a spoon...but probably shouldn't.

9) My first job was at Papa John's when I was 16 and I worked on the ovens because I was the fastest even though I wasn't really allowed to because I wasn't 18.

10) I hooked up my cousin Joey with my roommate Marisa and now they are married and have a cute little girl, Sophia...just call me MATCH MAKER!

I think I'm supposed to tag 7 people...hopefully you weren't tagged already!!!

1) MARY - In the Life of Mary

2) Brenda - Get In Fit

3) Shannon - 2nd Time Around

4) Krissa - Krissa's Journal

5) Stacey - Muscle and the City

6) Ana - AnaGetsFit

7) Lishia - Lishia Dean

UNTIL NEXT TIME!

The past week...

2009-11-08T18:37:00.001-05:00

This is a catch up post! So, last week I was on a MISSION to run as much as I could...once I finished day 3 I was DEAD! I would have kept running anyway, but I had to go to PA for my Great Uncle's funeral and we stayed over night...no time to run with such a tight schedule, no gym, and not knowing the area (there were no..and I mean NO sidewalks or shoulders to the roads...I didn't want to end up ROAD KILL!!) I meant to run on Fri, but didn't ::sad face:: Honestly, no good excuse for it! But here is what my week looked like:

Sunday 11/1- 4.25 miles (treadmill)

Monday 11/2- 3.75 miles (treadmill)

Tuesday 11/3- 2.5 miles (treadmill) and full body weight workout

Wednesday 11/4 - Off

Thursday 11/5 - Off

Fri 11/6 - Off

Sat 11/7 - around 4 miles (outside) and full body weight workout

Sunday 11/8 - around 4 miles (out side)

On a non workout related note...got a holiday job at Esprit...it's seasonal for right now...but I have more time on my hands lately...and who couldn't use extra cash!?! I get a great discount...so I can't wait to go shopping!!! :-)

What has everyone else been up to last week?

Ok...Seriously STOP STALKING ME

2009-11-03T10:55:00.000-05:00

This message is for the person who supposedly follows my blog and keeps trying to join my fan page...and keeps requesting me as a friend on Facebook (yet...posts fake photos, and has no other friends listed)...and now is sending me messages through my website....STOP wasting YOUR TIME...I am NOT going to accept you...I will keep deleting you from my fan page...GIVE IT UP. I don't appreciated being STALKED.

Rants...Raves...and Updates...

2009-11-02T13:55:00.000-05:00

Rants - Well, really there is only one...

My e-mail got hacked last week and sent some random link out...AND IT HAPPENED AGAIN TODAY! My best friends told me if I change my password then it should be OK...and I did that....but I think I might make a whole new e-mail...it's so annoying because all my confirmations from bills I pay come there, etc. GRRRR

Raves - A few...

1) CONGRATS TO GENIE!!!!!!!!!!!! That girl is ON FIRE!!! Winning her show from a week or two ago and then winning AGAIN this past weekend...AND THE OVER ALL!!! If you don't follow her blog yet...YOU SHOULD!

2) FINALLY after an almost 4 year engagement...my sister set her date and we are getting MARRIED!!! (Ok...not actually "WE" SHE and HER fiance! LOL) Of course, as you can guess I am the Maid of Honor!!! (Gotta love having only one sister!!!) Below is a cartoon picture of the wedding party...black dresses, red sash...and RED SHOES!!! I actually suggested the red shoes and everyone LOVED the idea...what do you think? The funny thing is..I am NO FASHIONISTA so I don't know how I pulled of such a good suggestion! LOL

3) My b-day was this past week (Oct 28) and it was a REALLY GOOD birthday! My boyfriend got me a whole hair and make up makeover in NYC with professional consultants! I am REALLY excited...seriously I wear sweats all the time and have my hair in a pony tail and usually little to no makeup...this is going to be fun...getting a new look! (And since I don't know how to do any of that, it will be nice to have someone help me!) Here is a photo from my hibachi dinner:
Updates - A few of these as well...

1) In my 28th year of life...I would like to set out to accomplish many new things...so, I plan on writing a list (I was thinking maybe a 100 things) I would like to accomplish this 28th year...I am still working on it...but here are 2 I know for sure and can share with you right now...I'll post the list once I have it complete!

2) Running a Half Maraton...Yep...that's right...13.1 miles!!! I was on the treadmill yesterday running and watching the NYC Marathon on TV...I don't know if I am ready for 26.2 miles...but I think I can tackle 13.1 miles. There is the NJ Marathon close to my house in May and they offer a half...so I think with 7 months to train...I can definitely do it!!! Plus, one of my clients is going to be my training partner...and she's going to run it with me!

3) Compete at NPC Nationals...specifically Team U...ok...no big surprise here...I already wrote in old posts I want to do this...but if I can also compete in one for two other Fitness nationals...that would be sweet too...let's just get this Pro card before I turn 30??? We'll see!

I've already began planning my running and training routine...so I will share that with you...I will also try to get back to Video Blogs...I like doing them....but they take time...not so much to record, but to actually upload...

That's all for now!!! Until next time!

I will be back to posting this week....

2009-10-25T19:57:00.000-04:00

I PROMISE!

Lots to catch you up on!

Miss everyone!

How's this for a workout...

2009-10-07T10:59:00.000-04:00

Sooooooo...no video blog today...but I'll post a new one again soon! Last night I gave 'em hell at boot camp...(well, I always do!) Here is how we started class...depending on your fitness level this could take you 12 mins or 20 minutes...here we go:

Here are your exercises:

1) Pop Squats - 10x

2) Push Ups - 10x

3) Mt Climbers - 10x (each leg)

4) Lunges - 10x (each leg)

5) Jumping Jacks - 10x

6) Crunches - 10x

7) Bridge Hip Lifts - 10x

8) Up/Downs - 10x (Get in a push up position then down to a plank then back up to PU position)

9) Rock & Stands - 10x (I just posted that video)

10) Burpees - 10x

Directions...Start with 1...after you do 10 pop squats you then do 1 AND 2...so 10 more pop squats then 10 push ups...then you do 1, 2 AND 3...do you see the pattern? After you finish 1 set of 10 you go back to the top and add the next exercise on...so you are ALWAYS starting from 1. (Let me know if you have questions about this one!!!)

Join my "Fitness Jenn" Fan Page on Face Book!

2009-10-05T13:07:00.000-04:00

In addition to my blog I also post ALOT on my Facebook and my Fan Page. If you are on Face Book LOOK ME UP and FRIEND ME...and please join my fan page!!! THANKS!

New Video Blog - October 1, 2009

2009-10-01T13:53:00.000-04:00

THE SCALE!!!!!!!

Bis, Tris, Shoulders, and Cardio

2009-09-28T22:16:00.000-04:00

Good productive Monday. Worked out with Brenda and KILLED IT. Kept my weight at 133lbs through the weekend!!! And...picked up my key and set my new schedule for the new location of where I will teach my classes!!! I'm feeling good about this week.

Workout from today. My weights are next to each exercise.

Warm up Treadmill - Incline 4.0/Speed 3.8 5 minutes

1) DB Shoulder press - 15x (30lb Dbs/30lbs/ 25lbs)
2) Alt Bi curls - 15x (20lbs for all sets)
3) Dips w/ feet on bench - 15x (25lb plate on lap)
4) Mt Climbers 30x each leg

Repeat 3 times total

Cardio - Treadmill - Incline 6.0/Speed 5.0 - 5 minutes

1) Up right row on cable column - 15x (65lbs/65lbs/70lbs)
2) Bi curls on cable column - 15x (60lbs for all sets)
3) Tri Push downs on cable - 15x (70lbs for all sets)

Repeat 3 times total

Cardio - Treadmill - Incline 6.0/Speed 5.0 - 5 mins

1) DB Lat Raise - 15x (15lb Dbs all sets)
2) Tricep push ups - 15x (flip 1 DB on it's side and put both hands on 1 DB to perform push ups)
3) Pull ups - 10x (use assist if necessary, neutral grip so palms facing each other not the usual wide over hand grip)

Repeat 3 times total

Cardio - Treadmill - 30 minutes...Incline 4.0...Speeds 3.8 and 5.5. Walk 2 minutes at 3.8 then run 1 minute at 5.5 keeping the incline at 4.0 and do this until you reach 30 minutes.

You will definitely SWEAT with this one!!!

WHERE IS EVERYONE??? It's been lonely this week without everyone updating their blogs!

Until NEXT TIME!!!

$10 sports bras at Target this week!!!

2009-09-27T15:12:00.000-04:00

EXCEPT THEY DIDN'T GET THEIR SHIPMENT IN! WTF!!! I got a rain check for 2 though...so that when they DO come in...I can go back and get them! :-)

Today Krystle (a client) and I went to yoga this morning...what a great way to start your day! Plus it was rainy and it's Sunday....so, so perfect!

Tomorrow I meet Brenda at the gym for Bis, Tris, Shoulders and Cardio...

We are all moved out of the location I teach my classes at...moving into the new place this week!

Will check the scale tomorrow...hope I kept it off this weekend!!!

Until Next Time!!!

Yes! I'm down another pound, but can I keep it off through the weekend!?!?

2009-09-25T15:40:00.000-04:00

Question of the day: What do you look forward to more after a 2 hour workout? A shower...or food??? Today I chose food...but normally it's a really hard decision!

So AFTER I ate I stepped on the scale before the shower and it said 133lbs! Yippie! I have a wedding next week on Friday...I would like to be UNDER 130...think I can swing that in a week? I might cheat and take water pills next week...now, hear me out...I know that will only be a temp fix...and it'll all comeback but I'm thinking I might only want to do that to avoid looking puffy and/or swollen all dressed up. Your thoughts?

No video today...but hopefully over the weekend. Today was chest and back (push/pull) and cardio. Brenda and I killed it as usual! This one really wears you out...I'm literally BEAT after. Here is what we did:

Warm Up - 5 mins Elliptical Level 10

1) Row Machine - 15x (I did 90lbs all 3 sets)

2) Chest Press Machine - 15x (I did 80lbs all 3 sets)

3) Elliptical 3 mins level 25 (highest level) Really using arms to push and pull

REPEAT 3 TIMES

1) Lat Pulldown - 15x (I did 70lbs, 75lbs, 80lbs)

2) Incline DB Flys - 15x (I did 15lbs)

3) Elliptical 3 mins level 25 - PUSH/PULL

REPEAT 3 TIMES

1) Push ups

2) Arch Ups

For this one do 15 push ups then 15 arch ups, then 14 and 14, all the way down to 1 and 1 (no rest)

30 minute Elliptical - Start at level 1 and increase 2 levels each minute. Once you reach the highest level hold for 2 minutes then drop down 1 level each minute until you get to 30 minutes.

I still feel this one and I've been home from the gym for over 3 hours!

I have 2 clients tonight and then out for one of my client's birthdays. Maybe I'll take and post pics!

Everyone have a good weekend!

Until Next time!

Thursday, Sept 24, 2009 Weigh In

2009-09-24T12:33:00.000-04:00

I plan to take measurements this weekend too so I can update those numbers as well.

Weigh In Video

LEG DAY! And other stuff

2009-09-23T12:11:00.001-04:00

Pre-workout video...

So I didn't have time to record another video so I'll just do it the old fashion way!!!

Leg Day is always tough....but it always feels the best when you are done. Brenda kicked MY butt today...and I wrote up the stupid workout! LOL

Here is the work out:

5 minute Warm up - Treadmill - Incline 0/Speed 3.0 (every :30 increase incline by 1 and speed by .2 until 5 mins)

1) Single Leg Split Squat (one foot on bench behind you) 12x each leg 15lb Dbs (Brenda used 20lbs!)

2) Treadmill - incline 8.0, speed 2.0, Walking Lunges 1 min...Keep incline at 8.0, speed 3.0 walk 1 min...Keep incline at 8.0, speed 5.0 jog 1 min

REPEAT THIS 4 TIMES

1) Leg Extension Drop Set - 6reps, 8 reps, 10 reps, 12 reps (find a weight you can do 6 reps with then drop down 5 or 10lbs and do 8, etc, etc, etc)

2) 25 Pop Squats

REPEAT THIS 3 TIMES

1) Leg Curl Drop Set - 6reps, 8 reps, 10 reps, 12 reps

2) 25 Bench Step Ups each leg

REPEAT THIS 3 TIMES

ABS

1) Hanging leg raise in Captain's Chair (legs in a pike position) 15x

2) Full Sit up 15x

3) Rock and Stands (I'll have to post a video of this one) 15x

REPEAT THIS 3 TIMES

Then we did 30 mins of easy walking cardio.

BTW...The meeting went great with the new location and we will be moving there...if not next week...the week after that. YAY! Lots of work to do to get ready for that...but happy we are going to have somewhere to go!

I'm stinky and need a shower...LOL.

Until Next Time!!!

Drum Roll Please..................

2009-09-22T12:38:00.000-04:00

So, I decided to create a video diary...the only thing is, I thought that my video editing program would be much better than it is...so I might have to invest in a better one for the future...for now I have to put this into 3 clips because when I tried importing the video into the editor...only the sound came over and not the video part...so just bare with me! I hope to have it all in ONE video clip at some point...until then, this is how I will do it...

Clip One - Intro (Don't mind the SUPER close up, slicked back sweaty hair, and no makeup look)

Clip Two - The Scale...AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!

Clip Three - Photos of my Quarter Turns

New Idea!!!!

2009-09-21T15:11:00.000-04:00

So, I have this new and exciting (well, exciting to me!!!) idea for my next blog post! This is just a teaser!!! I have to work on it a bit...but will post soon!!!!

In the mean time...today was bi's, tri's, shoulders, and cardio....went with Brenda...and we did awesome!!! Working in cardio in between super, triple, and/or monster sets makes a WORLD of difference...I mean you REALLY feel it. Then tacking on another 30 minutes of interval cardio after....I think it's working for us...we will see in a week or two...I think the girls are changing and feeling (and seeing) a difference in themselves...

How's everyone else getting along???

Until next time!

Team Universe...2010???

2009-09-18T14:41:00.000-04:00

This weekend was the BIG weekend...the LAST time all NPC fitness hopefuls had a chance for IFBB status in 2009. I am so happy to say my backstage friend, Ariel, is now the YOUNGEST IFBB pro....it's so exciting...she's only 17!

This leads me to a new long term goal. I will still train and get ready for November...but that will just be a stepping stone to the long term goal of competing at Team U in 2010.

If I were to win my Pro card, I would love to win it there because it's local. Looks like I am on a 365 day count down...

NEED...TO...FOCUS....NEED...TO...PRIORITIZE....

Until next time....

Ugh...Shoulders and Back

2009-09-11T15:07:00.000-04:00

But the "Ugh" is not for the workout...I'm glad I got the workout in BEFORE the "Ugh" came...

"Ugh" = "Tom" = "Yuck"

At least it's only for a day or two...but the first day is ALWAYS the worst.

Anyway...workout was good...went with Brenda...it was her first time running the routine...it was hard...but she did good...2nd time around is usually easier...

I'm not really full of excitement today...can't wait til I feel better!

I'll write more this weekend...enjoy your Friday!

Until Next Time...

Just wanted to share the GOOD NEWS!!!

2009-09-10T13:37:00.001-04:00

My client Brenda...the one who I asked you to follow her blog...she hit a HUGE milestone today...she has been WORKING HER BUTT OFF...and she is now 60lbs lighter!!! Check her out!!!

Remember...her blog is: http://brendagetinfit.blogspot.com/

Wednesday is Leg Day...

2009-09-09T17:15:00.001-04:00

Believe it or not...this is the first time I am writing and following my own program to get ready for an upcoming show. I know I've always had the ability before to do it...but I always liked the idea of being told what to do...even trainers need trainers!

I think what's different this time around is that I am training WITH my team...and not alone...and it's making a WORLD of difference. It gives me MORE motivation to work with them...and get through the crazy programs I put together. (Man, I can write some tough ones!)

So, today was leg day and it's the 2nd time running this leg routine. I wish I had my body bugg on me, because I would LOVE to see the calorie burn after this one. I wrote the program so that you're getting 7 different leg exercises in, plus 30 minutes of cardio...and it only takes about an hour to complete (not counting stretching after.) I know that sounds impossible...but the reps are high, the weight is moderate...and you definitely get the burn (actually this one gets you close to losing your breakfast/lunch!)

Last time I trained for a show I was putting in 2-3 hours EVERYDAY...and don't get me wrong...I looked the BEST I ever have looked...but not EVERYONE can dedicate THAT much time to a training program (ie; many of my clients) so I thought if I could design something and match it with a diet for those who don't have 2-3 hours per day...I would follow it too and see how it works. SO FAR SO GOOD.

Tomorrow, for me is cardio, plyometrics, and routine practice...I'm on my own for this...Tues & Thurs night I run 2.5 hours of class for my team (and other clients) and I don't usually participate.

Friday is Back and Shoulders...will be back then for an update...

My personal goal for November 14th is to be at or below my contest weight from last time...I have about 15lbs to go and less than 10 weeks...this is going to be TOUGH...but with everyone's support...I know I can get there!

Until Next Time!

10 weeks out!

2009-09-08T16:31:00.000-04:00

Today I came to my blog and found out that 2 of my clients have either updated or started a blog to write about their journey to the stage. I am so excited and hope that you all follow them and support them like you did to me...you ladies are the best and really make the journey that much easier when times get tough!

One is a Bikini Competitor, Shannon. Her blog is: http://shan-wow.blogspot.com/

The other, Brenda, hopes to compete in Body Building, (but may start off in figure.) Her blog is: http://www.brendagetinfit.blogspot.com/

I told them that I would also keep updating my blog since we all plan to compete in November for Eastern USAs in NYC.

If it goes MY way all 5 of us (pictured) will be ready and on stage!

Until next time!

Workouts, Workouts, and more workouts...

2009-08-09T19:16:00.001-04:00

So...here is the program for the next 3 weeks (it's actually a 4 week program, but this week starts week 2 of 4.) 3 heavy lifting programs rotated...separated by a minimum of 2 days off between each other...my girls are getting in 2 heavy lifting days per week in addition to their classes (2.5 hours each on Tues and Thurs and 1 hour on Sat) plus (3) additional :30 minute cardio sessions and (1) Team run or track session per week. A sample week looks like this:

Sun - Heavy lifting, plus a possible cardio day and/or team run

Mon - Cardio

Tues - Classes (CORE Abs & Back, Kickboxing, Body Boot Camp)

Wed - Heavy Lifting, plus a possible cardio day

Thurs - Classes (same as Tues)

Friday - Cardio and/or possible team run

Sat - Class (Kickboxing), plus possible cardio day and/or team run

Here are the workouts.

Program 1 - Legs/Abs

Warm up - 10 minutes

1) Barbell or Smith Machine Squats - as heavy as you can go for 6 reps (ass as low as you can go)
2) Bench Step Ups - 15-20lb DBs - 10 reps each leg
3) Full range sit ups - 15 reps
Complete this Triple set 4 times

*Cardio - 5 minutes on either the Arc (highest incline and resistance at 85) or the Treadmill on the highest incline walking at 3.5 or higher NO HOLDING ON!!! Step mill is ok too if you have access to one.

1) Walking Lunges with 15-20lb DBs - 10 steps each leg
2) Stiff Leg Dead Lift - as heavy as you can go for 6 reps
3) Scissor Kicks - 25 reps each leg
Complete this Triple Set 4 times

* Cardio - 5 minutes on either the Arc (highest incline and resistance at 85) or the Treadmill on the highest incline walking at 3.5 or higher NO HOLDING ON!!! Step Mill is ok too.

Finish with 1 plank hold (1 min) and 1 side plank hold each side (1 min each side)

Cool Down - 10 minutes STRETCH

Program 2 - Shoulders/Chest/Tris

Warm up - 5 mins

1) Military Press - as heavy as you can go for 6 reps
2) Lat Raise - as heavy as you can go for 6 reps
3) Up Right Row on cable - as heavy as you can go for 6 reps
Complete this triple set 4 times

· Cardio- Bike 3 minutes (:30sec sprint at low resistance/:30sec hill climb at high resistance)

1) DB Flat Bench - as heavy as you can go for 6 reps
2) Decline Push ups (feet up on bench) 10 reps
3) Incline Fly w/ DBs - as heavy as you can go for 6 reps
Complete this triple set 4 times

· Cardio- Bike 3 minutes (:30sec sprint at low resistance/:30sec hill climb at high resistance)

1) Tricep Push Up - 10 reps
2) Dips on assist machine - if using the assist 10 reps, if not using the assist 6 reps
3) Skull Crushers (with DB or Barbell/E-Z Curl Bar) - as heavy as you can go for 6 reps
Complete this triple set 4 times

· Cardio- Bike 3 minutes (:30sec sprint at low resistance/:30sec hill climb at high resistance)
Cool Down - 5 minutes STRETCH

Program 3 - Back & Bi's

Warm up - 10 minutes
1) Assist Pull Ups - 10 reps
4 sets total

· Cardio - 25 (each leg) mountain climbers, 15 burpees, 10 jumping jacks

1) Wide Grip Lat Pull Downs - as heavy as you can go for 6 reps
2) Close Grip Seated Cable Rows - As heavy as you can go for 6 reps
3) Single Arm DB Rows - as heavy as you can go for 6 reps
Complete this triple set 4 times

· Cardio - 25 (each leg) mountain climbers, 15 burpees, 10 jumping jacks

1) Alt DB Curl - 15-20lb DBs - 6 reps each side
2) Cable Curl - as heavy as you can go for 6 reps
Repeat this superset 4 times

· Cardio - 25 (each leg) mountain climbers, 15 burpees, 10 jumping jacks

Cool Down - 10 minutes - STRETCH

Here is what I did last week:

Sun 8/2/09 - Program 1

Mon 8/3/09 - Cardio 45 mins Treadmill. Incline: 2% Speeds: 3.5 / 5.5 (Interval walk/jog)

Tues 8/4/09 - Jillian Michaels Boot Metabolism

Wed 8/5/09 - Program 2 & 1 hour of Gymnastics

Thurs 8/6/09 - 20 minutes of Yoga

Fri 8/7/09 - OFF

Sat 8/8/09 - Fitness Trail in the park

Sun 8/9/09 - OFF

Tomorrow I plan to do Program 3 and probably some cardio and yoga.

Let me know if you try any of these and how you do!

Ladies...I'm back! Oh, how I've missed you all!

2009-08-06T12:18:00.000-04:00

Let's ROCK AND ROLL. I was looking a head towards November for Eastern USA's...counted the weeks back and figured...CRAP! I have 16 weeks, time to start cleaning up the diet and getting back to a regular workout schedule!

I am training some girls who all hope to compete in November as well...one for Body Building, two for Fitness, one for figure, and one for Bikini...I created their workouts...and then decided to do the program I designed WITH them...all these girls take my classes 3 times a week and we already work well as a team there...so I figured the lifting days should be the same...plus me being there to PUSH them is awesome...and them seeing me train helps motivate me too. I trained all last season without a workout partner and it was tough...so far working out WITH my girls has been AWESOME.

Oh...not to mention, I came home from tumbling/gymnastics last night to a message posted on my Facebook Wall from Adela Garcia....talk about MOTIVATION!!! I think God is telling me it's time to do it again...and I think I'm ready for it...

I will post my workouts, in case you are interested! :-)

Until next time...

I know's it's been a while...I'll be back full speed soon, I promise, but...

2009-07-27T16:29:00.000-04:00

In the mean time...I am starting a little challenge/game type thing with my personal training business called "Fitness Jenn Across America." I wanted to post it here in case anyone was interested in participating!!! Let me know if you have any questions!

There are about 2,860 miles from New Jersey to California and Fitness Jenn needs YOU to help get her there!

Bi-weekly prizes will be awarded, so this is the perfect time to get motivated! Grab a friend, sister, co-worker, neighbor and get MOVING! (Winners chosen at random.)

How to participate: Email your name & address to jenn@fitnessjenn.com (just in case you are a prize winner, I know where to send it to.)

Update your mileage each day or each week. Must look like this:

Jane Doe 7/27/09 3.2 miles
Jane Doe 7/28/09 2 miles
Jane Doe 8/1/09 .5 miles

Name…Date…and Miles MUST be included and sent via Face Book, MySpace, MeetUp, or e-mail: jenn@fitnessjenn.com

You may walk, jog, run, or bike your miles.

Any questions please e-mail them to jenn@fitnessjenn.com. Let’s see how many people we can get involved and how long it takes to get across the USA!!!

Invite your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers. The more the merrier!

Definitely need a shower after this one!

2009-06-18T16:22:00.001-04:00

Ok...so I had to go to the food store really quick after the gym (after I did the speed workout below) and can I just tell you I I sweat through my pants...I think it looked like I pee-d myself or something because this one guy was looking at me funny! LOL WHAT! HAVE YOU NEVER SEEN A SWEATY GIRL BEFORE?? GEEZE! How embarrassing!

Anyway...

Unfortunately had to do this on the treadmill since it was raining, but you can do this outside.

Warm up 10 minutes (Walk/Jog) then...

I did all of these at 10.0 on the treadmill. (Find a speed you are comfortable with if you can't do 10.0)

5 x 20 seconds (40 second recover walk/jog)

4 x 30 seconds (60 second recover walk/jog)

3 x 40 seconds (1 min 20 second recover walk/jog)

3 x 30 seconds (60 second recover walk/jog)

3 x 40 seconds (1 min 20 second recover walk/jog)

2 x 50 seconds (1 min 40 second recover walk/jog)

1 x 60 seconds (2 minute recover walk/jog)

Finished the last set at 11.0 on the treadmill

5 x 30 seconds (60 second recover walk/jog)

Cool down Jog/Walk until you reach 60 minutes (I think it's about 6 or 8 minutes)

DON'T FORGET TO STRETCH!!!

If you run fast enough...your legs and butt should be killing you the next day!!!

Just had a super yummy protein shake and now I'm ready for a shower...and maybe a nap too!

Update from yesterday & Today's Plans

2009-06-18T08:32:00.001-04:00

So, I never made it back on yesterday to update with workouts and the rest of my meals.

I am not quite back on the calorie counting wagon yet...but alot of the theories I've read on clean eating, you don't really HAVE to....plus I'm not going to make myself NUTS. I figure give myself maybe another month or two before I start worrying about counting...either that or judge by the weight on the scale and the way the clothes fit...if things don't start to feel lose or if the number on the scale doesn't go down...then maybe I'll start counting before that...anyway, back to the point of this post...

In addition to my eggs whites, turkey bacon and cottage cheese concoction in the morning, I enjoyed some home made chicken and veggie soup (made by ME!) as well as cucumber salad (just cucumber and some Italian dressing), some walnuts, a DELISH protein shake after the gym (Vanilla protein, water, ice, Greek yogurt, banana, blueberries, and Chocolate PB2) and Chicken with tomato, mango, and sesame seeds (made by ME!) for dinner. I also snacked on this spinach/egg/cheese thing I baked the other day...and then since I didn't really have any "bad" carbs all day I gave in to oatmeal with cinnamon and raisins (not pre-packaged), a few blue chips with sprinkled reduced fat cheese melted, and a Kashi granola bar towards the end of the day. I know I said I wasn't counting...and I'm not being specific...but I did figure out an estimate...and even with erring on the high side (just in case) it was definitely under 2000 calories...which is fine since my Body Bugg said I burned 2624 yesterday in total...so I don't feel like I over ate.

On to yesterday's work out:

First I did my cardio

- 6 mins of a brisk warm up walk (4.0 on the treadmill...I have short legs! So this is brisk for me!!!) Then I did.

-60 seconds of running at 6.0

-90 seconds of walking at 3.8

I repeated the above for 20 minutes for a total of 26 minutes of cardio before my full body circuit. You really DO sweat alot during interval cardio work. Even with the walk I was sweating quite a bit...and the Body Bugg got me up to 8.2 calories per minute burned...which sometimes when I would do steady running I would only get to 10 cals/min so this isn't bad!

After the run/walk cardio I did the following circuit (and I am already feeling it today! Feels good!)

- Step Lunges - 15x each leg with 15lb DBs

- Boxer - 15x each arm with 5lb DBs (click on the word to see what that is...hard to describe in words)

- Isometric Lat Shoulder Hold - :30 seconds each side using the Black resistance band

- Seated Concentration Curls - 15x each arm with 15lb DB

- Standing Overhead Tri Ext - 15x with 30lb DB

- Bench Press - 15x with 65lbs

- Bridges - 15x no weight

- Basic Crunch - 15x no weight

- Crunch with a twist - 15x each side no weight

- Prone Back Ext (aka "hyper extensions") - 15x no weight

I moved from one exercise to the next without rest...I completed the circuit 3x around. I only rested about :30-:60 after each full circuit. After the cardio the calories burned per minute came down a bit, but was still well over 5 calories per minute during the circuit work.

Today it's rainy...I think the actual rain may have stopped...hopefully for good today! I was planning on doing a speed running workout...and I'd rather NOT do it on a treadmill. I also am planning on doing a jump rope workout as well as lots of stretching, mobility movements, and foam rolling. Will let you know how that all turns out later today or tomorrow...

Not gonna lie....I had clients early this morning and stopped for an energy drink (sugar free) and also grabbed a butter roll at 7-11...I KNOW!!! NOTHING NUTRITIOUS involved...that's one thing I HATE about NJ - BUTTERED ROLLS...they're so bad for you, but so good too! After that confession, I should go and take the puppy for his walk so I can burn off that mistake from this morning...

Be back to update soon!!!

On the road again...

2009-06-17T11:15:00.001-04:00

A little bump in the road when TOM came to town...but he's gone now and I'm back on the straight and narrow.

Realizing that no working out + eating refined, processed, and packaged foods = Sleepy all the time and no motivation. That is NOT ME...so VACATION'S OVER.

Did a little researching and found a few running work outs that I am excited to try. One site offered more distance training and the other site offered more track/sprint type work outs. I am excited to try both...will post those workouts and how I did after I try them.

Bought a few jump ropes to use with my class clients...so I am looking forward to incorporating that into my workouts too.

Today I ate 4 egg whites + 1 egg yolk and 3 strips of turkey bacon for breakfast and had low-fat cottage cheese + all natural Peanut Butter + 100% Natural Strawberry fruit spread for my late morning snack. Took a 20 minute walk by myself this morning before breakfast and then another 30 minute walk with the puppy after breakfast. Gonna head out in a few for a 20 minute jog and hit up a full body circuit later.

I'll post again this afternoon/this evening to update with my meals and workouts for the rest of the day.

Enjoy this nice, sunny (for now) day!

Until next time....

TOM...I hate him...

2009-06-12T10:33:00.000-04:00

Yes...TOM came and I gave in to Chocolate...why can't we crave something like carrots when TOM comes??? Wouldn't that be much easier? Grrrr.

Alright, Alright, I had a Rockstar! But it was Sugar Free!!!

2009-06-11T14:44:00.000-04:00

I can not tell a lie!!! Rockstar was not on the plan...BUT....I chose the Sugar Free version...20 calories in the whole can (or at least that's what it says...lol) I also drank Body Well Nutrition's First Order (10 calories) but it's a pre workout drink...so that's when I drank it.

Off to a good start...the weather has been crappy and I went to bed late last night so I didn't get up and take a walk this morning like I wanted to. But, I still got in a good full body workout and plan to go for a walk/jog before I have to teach class tonight.

I've had 64 oz water so far and:

Meal 1 (around 8:30am)
1/2 cup dry oats (mixed with water, cinnamon, and 2 Truvia packets then microwaved)
4 egg whites
2 fish oils

Meal 2 (around 11:30am)
1 scoop Vanilla EAS protein (mixed with water)
1 med banana
1 TBS All natural peanut butter
1 multi vitamin

Meal 3 (around 2pm)
Egg Salad on wheat bread
1 16oz Rockstar (Sugar Free!!)
2 fish oils

Probably around 5pm I'll eat Meal 4 which is 3oz chicken with salsa and 5 oz green beans. Meal 5 will be after class tonight and is scheduled to be the same as Meal 4 and Meal 6 is Cottage Cheese Doubles (Strawberry flavor!)

My work out is the same workout I made my Boot Camp clients do on Tuesday, with one section added that they didn't do. Here's how it went:

Circuit #1
- Walking Lunges with 20lbs DB 10x each leg
- Bear Crawls 10 steps
- 30 crunches
- Crab Crawls 10 steps
- 10 push ups
Complete this circuit 3x around - no break until finished.

Circuit #2
- Renegade Row 5x using 20lb DB (1 rep = 1 push up then in the push up position pull up the right weight like a single arm DB row then pull the left weight up like a single arm DB row)
- "Swims" for 30 seconds (Laying on your stomach arms out in front of you like Superman. Lift arms and legs off the floor and "swim" kicking your legs and feet without letting them hit the floor)
- "Fire Hydrants" 10x lifting the knee to the side, 10x keeping the knee up and kicking out to the side, 10x kicking heel to the ceiling then switch sides
- Plank Holds (:30 hold - :10 rest - :20 hold - :10 rest - :10 hold)
- Push up/Plank "up, up, down, down" 10x (1 rep = start in push up position, then go into a plank position, then back up to push up position)
Complete this circuit 3x around - no break until finished.

Circuit #3
10 Jumping Jacks, 10 Mountain Climbers, 10 push ups, 10 crunches
9 Jumping Jacks, 9 Mountain Climbers, 9 push ups, 9 crunches
9 Jumping Jacks, 8 Mountain Climbers, 8 Push ups, 8 crunches
(I think you see the pattern...10.....all the way down to 1)

Circuit #4
Military Press 15x
Over Head Tricep Ext 15x
Seated Ab twists with feet up 15x
Chest Press 15x
Bicep Curl 15x
Bent Over Row 15x
Squat 15x
Using 1 20lb DB, move from exercise to exercise, completing circuit 3x around - no break until finished.

It's just about 3:30 now and I'm only at 1366 calories burned (according to my Body Bugg) so I'm not sure if I'll end at 2500 like I was hoping...I'll have to let you know tonight (after midnight when it resets) or tomorrow when I update.

Hope this weather gets better!

Back after a short break...

2009-06-10T14:12:00.000-04:00

It's been over a week (I think) since I last wrote. Thank you to everyone who read my blog and a big hug out there to everyone who commented. I am back and ready to update what has gone on in the past week or two as well as tell my plans for the future.

Playing Catch Up

So, I went to the competition I was supposed to compete in this past Saturday. My sister competed fitness and placed 3rd out of 6 girls. I am SO PROUD of her...and proud of myself because I am the one who trained her! She came in looking the best she ever has, and she is EXCITED to compete again in a few weeks. Below is a photo of her from last year in season and then this year. What do ya think!?!

20082009

To be perfectly honest, I ate as many carbs and sugars, and fats as I wanted over the past 2 weeks with out tracking or moderation. I barely made it to the gym, had an occasional walk in the morning (30-45 mins) and slept in and took naps. I told myself this was ok because I was "dieting" for basically 6 months and hitting the gym HARD. Did my body need all that sugar and garbage? No....but it definitely needed the rest. 2 bad effects I had from doing this: 1) SEVERELY SWOLLEN legs...mostly my ankles. No pain...but I knew right away it was from going from SUPER CLEAN eating to SUPER GARBAGE eating. I didn't panic, although it was depressing to look at. Happy to say no more swelling!!! 2) Very, very, VERY tired almost everyday. Again, another effect from refined sugars and processed foods, as well as not getting my body up and moving at the gym. There were a few times I sat and tried to figure out what new program I wanted to do...and each time I tried to start...it lasted for a day and I was right back to allowing myself to rest and eat with out tracking. I think mentally I wasn't ready to start another program. I do know, however, that I NEED to be on SOME KIND of program. It makes day to day much easier knowing what you have to do, accomplish, eat, etc. Without having a plan it's just a disaster....a complete out of control mess. I am done being a mess! It's such DRAMA and I hate drama!!

My plans

1) My boyfriend bought me a Body Bugg for Christmas so I plan to put that to great use now that I am not on a competition diet and training program. I think knowing my calorie output on a daily basis will help me adjust my calorie intake. Move less, eat less...move more, eat more. I don't plan to eat in a surplus or even at maintenance, but a small deficit...nothing crazy, but enough to help me get back to what I would like to see in a bikini...not a competition bikini...just a regular old "I'm going to the beach" bikini. I'm still holding alot of water from eating like crap this past 2 weeks.

2) Continue to take weekly pictures. This is something I think I need to keep doing. After a few weeks, I'll probably share them here on my blog. I am (as we all are to ourselves) my BIGGEST critic. I will always think I look like crap, but when I can go back and see pictures side by side, it will (hopefully) snap me back into reality.

3) Track my weight and measurements. This one will be for me to spot trends. The measuring will be a bit tricky because I will need someone to help with the tape measure, but weighing everyday shouldn't be a problem. I think I'll measure every 2 weeks....maybe more if it shows on the scale.

4) Update my blog everyday (or every other day) with my successes, my struggles, my good days and bad days to tell you what workouts I did and what my meal plans looked like, etc.

WOW...so I think that's all for now. It's almost 3pm and I need to go pick up my puppy from "grandma's" and bring him home to see "daddy" lol. Besides, I have lots of planning to do, so I can start to update you all with my progress. I hope I can help out many of you who are having the same problems! Please continue to keep in touch...and feel free to reach out to me via e-mail!
Have a great day and week...it's HUMP DAY!!!

Confessions of a Secret Binge Eater...The Dark Side of Competition Dieting

2009-06-01T11:15:00.000-04:00

Yes...I am talking about myself. I have been struggling with whether or not to write this post...and finally decided, Damn it...it NEEDS to be written!

No one really talks about the negative effects training and dieting can have on someones mind. I think many people go through it, but no one ever talks about it...why? Out of shame? Maybe...that's why I was struggling with whether I was going to come clean or not with it.

One week out from my next competition and I decide to pull out...WHAT! Yes, I know you are thinking, but you are so close, why would you do that? This brings me to the title of this post.

I actually took notice of very particular habits I was forming and thought for a second..."wait a minute...I think something is wrong here...I think I may be on my way to a serious food addiction and may be developing some body issues..." I say that because I noticed an OVERWHELMING desire to eat all the time...every thought in my head was about food...I constantly looked up food and recipes online, walked up and down the isles in the store looking (and almost drooling) at the different foods I wanted so badly but couldn't have. Now, this probably doesn't sound so bad, right? Maybe a little normal for someone on a competition diet? No, at this point food was controlling my life...and it gets worse...

I'm on a strict eating plan of fish and asparagus...for WEEKS...MONTHS...and I hate fish. Repeat, repeat, repeat....on days I have a craving and want to cheat I don't grab a banana or apple (both of which were NOT on the diet...but would have been a "better" cheat option) I would grab the WORST thing I could find...ice cream...cookies...chocolate...WHATEVER...and eat and eat and eat...until I was feeling guilty...not until I was feeling full...but actually guilty...and I would do it all in secret...yes...this is the part that was a red flag for me...BINGE EATING IN SECRET... HELLO. If that dies not scream "Eating Disorder" then I don't know what does.

I am some what of a "Type - A" personality...I like to be in control...alot...(maybe that's why I became a personal trainer!?!? LOL who knows...) so...when I realized I was totally OUT OF CONTROL in terms of my eating...I knew it was time to put the breaks on...step back...and assess the situation before it went too far.

I have NEVER been one to obsess over food...or even ever had body issues. I've always been pretty happy with my body and never have really dealt with being overweight or hating the way I looked. I had a LOOOONG talk with one of my coaches...many of you know her and/or subscribe to her blog (Lishia Dean) and she really helped me. (What an awesome person she is, I swear.) She told me the story of her competition history...from when she started up until now. I'm not going to go though the whole story, but there was a point in her career where she took some time off and she said it was the best thing she ever did because when she came back she was back 110% and ready to do it. And, many of you know...she is on a journey to get her pro card this year....(which I have no doubt she'll get!!!) So...going from a situation where her head wasn't in it 100% to coming back after a break and now being a contender for an IFBB Pro Card says ALOT about what a break can do for you.

The other thing I thought about was the fact that I am a trainer...I have clients...and I help guide them towards healthy eating...and coach them to have a healthy relationship with food...well how the HELL can I do that if I begin to have a bad relationship with food?!?! I can't...so I decided what was best for me right now was to step back and refocus. If I can mentally wrap my head around doing another contest prep diet in the future WITHOUT having food issues that are out of control...then I will definitely be competing...and for a long time...but if it continues to defeat me and put me in a bad relationship with food and those around me (because I also didn't mention how MISERABLE I was...lying to myself and everyone around me that I was happy when I wasn't...and being annoyed and irritated by stuff that should have never bothered or annoyed me...) then I would rather walk away then struggle with an eating disorder for the rest of my life.

I was very afraid to write this post and come clean. By all my previous posts it looks like I am doing so well...but if you noticed there were DAYS between posts...I only wrote on the days I was kicking ass...but on the bad days....I wasn't writing my struggles...why? I was embarrassed and ashamed....sad, but oh so true.

I will NOT let any of this defeat me. I am taking the steps to regroup and refocus on what I need to do. I will not stop blogging...it's been a great outlet for me so far, and the followers and support from you ladies has been tremendous. I hope to still inspire, even with such a set back as this. I wanted others to know it's OK to step back if you need to. NO COMPETITION AND DIET is worth giving yourself an eating disorder over.

Quick Update on my run today

2009-05-27T13:15:00.000-04:00

Weather - Misty Rain

Mood - Not so much in the mood to run, but did it anyway...here is what I did:

1.6 miles - Run
.25 miles - Walk
.25 miles - Run
.25 Miles - Walk
.25 Miles - Run
.25 Miles - Walk
.35 Miles - Run
.25 Miles - Walk
.50 Miles - Run
.25 Miles - Walk
.50 Miles - Run
.10 Miles - Walk

Total mileage today so far: 4.8 Miles

I'm damp from being sweaty & wet from outside, cold, and tired...and I still have to get more cardio in...off to the gym again to finish it up...I guess I'll aim for 8 miles ran today (only 3.2 more to run...then probably just hit the bike after that)...then home to shower & put on some dry clothes...train 2 clients...and home early to rest and relax...

Until next time...

Running, Running, and more running...OUCH I'm in pain...

2009-05-23T06:58:00.000-04:00

The upside to all this running for sure is the calorie burn and (for me) they way it brings my legs down in size...the down side??? PAIN, PAIN, and MORE PAIN. I'm 2 weeks out from my show and so I don't have alot of "rest" time to recover from the shin splints and other awful ankle and heel pain I am experiencing. I have the alternative to do other cardio like biking and elliptical, which is a better option than nothing at all...but it's like you have to be on there twice as long to achieve the same calorie burn as running. I guess I'll just have to deal...

This week was a BEAUTIFUL one...so I did all of my cardio OUTSIDE!!! I've been running with a few of my clients and it's great to work WITH them as well as push them!!! (I need some push too every once in a while!!!)

My highlight for the week was...I believe Wednesday...I got in over 9 miles!!! Yes, I know I am shocked too at that! First I ran 5 miles with Brenda (who by the way started her own fitness blog...you should check her out CLICK HERE she's my client and just recently reached her 40lb mark!!! SOOO PROUD of her!) After the 5 mile run/walk (more running than walking) I had to meet up with another client who I did another mile with (again a run/walk...with intervals of exercises every street block) and finally met up with another client for a faster run at night. It was a total of 3.2 miles for the 3rd run of the day, but broken into 2 parts. We fast jogged the 1st 1.6 miles...took about a 5 minute break or so to stretch...then the 2nd 1.6 was an all out "run your ass as fast as you can" run. I am proud to say after all that running I was able to complete 1.6 miles in exactly 12 minutes 30 seconds. I thought that was pretty good!

Soooo....the other day I went to my niece's (ok, soon to be niece....just waiting for the ring and the wedding...LOL) high school track meet. She just started this year doing long jump and triple jump. I use to do both of those events in high school and college, so I went along to watch and coach a little. As soon as I got there I got the itch...seeing the track...the sun was shinning, and I wanted to just RUN...JUMP...HURDLE. One of my good friends from college is a hurdler and he's been to the Olympic trials twice trying to qualify for the Olympics...I texted him asking him how I could get into open meets. He told me I just had to go to USATF NJ online to see a meet calendar and I could just pre-register or register the day of. So, now I am excited!!! I think I may add a few track meets to my 5k running schedule this summer!!! I just want to long jump again sooooooo bad!!! I of course have to get to a pit and practice jumping...as well as practice drills and skills and sprints...but I think I'm gonna do it!!! I'm gonna pull out the old running and jumping spikes (yes...I STILL have them...I knew I would want to pull them out some day after college!!!)

So...after June 6th my blog will take a short detour away from fitness competitions...and focus on my running (for at least the summer months.) I will still post my cardio (since I will be doing ALOT of it) and weight workouts as well as my diet. I hope you still continue to follow and support me!!!

Sunday & Monday Workouts

2009-05-18T10:53:00.001-04:00

Sooo...started the week off with some hard and heavy lifts. I feel so strong lately....both in my runs and in my lifts. I love it! So update form yesterday...

Gym: Final Round Boxing & Fitness Center Whippany, NJ

DEFINITELY would recommend this gym if you are visiting or live in the area. It's brand new...excellent strength equipment (Cybex) and lots of cardio (Precor) and best of all it's so clean, you can practically eat off the floors...I am not even joking.

Again, I was one of the only few people lifting so no wait for the equipment...while Ryan did his thing in the ring...they had 2 rings going with sparring. (BTW, he did awesome with out head gear...getting ready for the pros!!!) I did get lots of looks from the people there and even complimented by many of the guys there. I guess training like we do...it's pretty impressive...they are probably not sure to seeing girls train like that!

So, I lifted chest. Lots of pushup variations...(I love pushups) DB presses, flys and cable flys (I love cable flys too because you can REALLY see your chest, arm, and shoulder muscles working...so cool. I was at 40lbs each side for 10x - 4 sets)

Ran a little of my routine, but hurt my butt...lol...not bad, but enough to bother me the rest of the day and a little today. It's the top part of the right side, so at least it's not where the hamstring ties in...that would be a nightmare.

Today was back...and I don't know if I've said this in past posts...but I love lifting back because I can go heavy. This is where the problem with grip comes in though...I can probably lift heavier if my grip could handle it...man, I guess I really need to just get some straps!!! I got up to 70lbs barbell for bent over row reverse grip...and that was my last set. I first did 40lbs - 15x then 50lbs - 15x then 60lbs - 15x, and finally 70lbs - 15x. I think I could have probably started at 50 and got up to 80lbs...I'll try that for next time.

DB deadlifts I started at 35lbs each hand for 10x and by the 4th set I was up to 50lbs each hand. (now THAT was hard!)

Between today's back workout and yesterday I had to do burpee/pushups with 15lbs DB I know my back is going to be killing me fora few days (I already feel it)...so I think I might try to get in for a massage for today and/or tomorrow...

Still have to get my runs in today...but that'll be a little later...I think I'm going to do them outside.

I guess that's it for now. If you end up going to Final Round Boxing & Fitness Center please tell them Jenn Nash (Ryan Mick's girlfriend) sent you there!

Until next time...

Rainy Sunday Here in Jersey

2009-05-17T08:30:00.000-04:00

Good morning! Today I am going to a gym up north with my boyfriend. He is a boxer and is considering going pro. Must be nice to just DECIDE to go pro!!! He works very hard, so I can not and will not take ANYTHING away from him...but, I've learned alot about boxing since dating him, and apparently you can just decide to go Pro when ever you want. MUCH different than this fitness/figure/bodybuilding sport!!!

It's nice to go to a different gym every once in a while to change up the atmosphere and spice things up, ya know? Last time we went I was the only one lifting and everyone else was there for sparring so NO WAITING FOR EQUIPMENT! Yippee!

So, I got my new plans for lifting/cardio yesterday and Lishia really gave it to me. So my loud mouth telling everyone how I can run at 9.0 is being put to the test! Lots of fast running and hill running this time around. Even a TRACK WORKOUT! AWESOME!!!!!!

On Friday me and 3 of my class girls ran the Manasquan Reservoir (5 miles.) They thought were were going to go for a "leisurely run" LMAO...FAT CHANCE...(and actually that's more if what they were HOPING for...but know it was too good to be true!!!) So here is what we did:

10 mins jog to warm up
3 minute PICK UP THE PACE!
8 min jog break
3 minute PICK UP THE PACE!
6 min jog break
3 minute PICK UP THE PACE!
10 min jog break
2 minute PICK UP THE PACE!
Jog to the end

After about 5-10 minutes at the "finish line" while we were all stretching and talking (about food...LOL MMMM Protein Pancakes!) I actually said "Wow, I feel great...like I can do that 5 mile run again." And...that's when they all were like..."well, we will see you tomorrow at Kickboxing, have fun with that!"

HAHA

No, I didn't actually run it again! LOL

Ok, time to pack up my food and get ready to rumble (haha, see the boxing reference in there LOL) and wake Ryan up so he can get ready to go too.

I will report back later...have a good SUNDAY!

Never Settle - Strive to be better EVERYDAY

2009-05-14T10:47:00.000-04:00

You ladies thought I was nuts for running at 9.0 for 5 minutes, right??? Well today I HAD to do it...I had to either go farther, longer, or faster...it HAD to be done. Today was a great accomplishment...

I started out my cardio with a 3.5 minute walk on a 5% incline...my typical warm up. Than I decided I was going to do 1 mile repeats. I have not done this since high school cross country and after training soooo hard in my adult years, I wanted to see how strong I really am now.

First Mile = 6:47 (I ran at 9.0 the whole way)
5 minute break
Second Mile = 6:45 (I ran at 9.0 the whole way...but I must have started sooner than the first time which is why I shaved 2 seconds off)
5 minute break
Third Mile = 6:45 (again I ran at 9.0 the whole time)

I only came close to MAYBE puking once...on the last run...some where around 5:45. I kept telling myself that I was either going to puke while running,wait until my legs gave out and fall off the treadmill, or just suck it up and finish. I was NOT SLOWING DOWN FOR ANYTHING.

I kept thinking...sh*t...I have been competing for 3 years. This last run represents this year. Am I going to slow the speed down on the treadmill the last minute because I am tired? F!*% NO!!! Even if I don't win a show this year in NY, or go to nationals...or even get my pro card...at least I know I WORKED MY ASS OFF. And I doubt there are many other competitors who can run like me!!!

After this week, I decided to run 5ks this summer. Actually, to be honest I just want to keep running in the off season so I can eat carbs...LOL and not get fat...HAHA.

If anyone is up for a run and you live near me...let me know!!!

KEEP WORKING HARD!!!!!!!!!! YOU CAN DO ANYTHING...GO HARD!

Until next time...

Run til it HURTS - Or til you puke...

2009-05-12T13:21:00.000-04:00

I didn't really hurt or puke...but this is the hardest cardio challenge I'm posting to date. Please let me know if you tried it and how you made out! If you are on my Facebook you may have already seen this since I posted it there this morning as well. GOOD LUCK!

Have a puke bucket ready for this one...you might need it!

5 minute warm up walk - Incline 5.0 Speed 3.5

Then put the incline to 0 and do this:

Speed 9.0 - 5mins

Speed 8.0 - 6 mins

Speed 7.0 - 7mins

Speed 6.0 - 8 mins

Speed 3.5 - 4 mins

Speed 5.0 - 5 mins

Speed 6.0 - 4 mins

Speed 7.0 - 3 mins

Speed 8.0 - 2 mins

Speed 9.0 - 1 mins

Speed 3.0 - 1 mins

Speed 4.0 - 2 mins

Speed 5.0 - 3 mins

Speed 6.0 - 4 mins

Walk 3-5 mins cool down and then you're DONE!

CAN YOU DO IT?!?!?

Until Next Time...

Fish out of water???

2009-05-09T09:26:00.001-04:00

Weird title for this blog, huh? Well that's because I am going to be a fish out of water because I am going to turn INTO a fish! My diet has changed to Talipia at EVERY MEAL (well, except for breakfast.) Let's see how this goes since I'm not a huge fan. I'm going to try and get through it though. I have no choice at this point...it's 4 weeks out.

My workouts are great...the running is great but my body is beat to hell from running on the treadmill for an hour straight twice per day. Not to mention my lifts are heavy AND high reps (but that part I don't mind so much!) It's mostly from my knees down that kill...my shins, calves, feet. I think I'm going to have to schedule a few massages per week to help recover from this torture on my body.

Speaking of torture. Try the cardio I did today:

If you can complete this one without modifying it then you get two thumbs up!!!

Warm up walk - Incline 5.0 Speed 3.5

Then:

Incline 1.0

Speed 3.0 1 min

Speed 4.0 1 min

Speed 5.0 1 min

Speed 6.0 1 min

Speed 7.0 1 min

Incline 2.0

Speed 3.0 1 min

Speed 4.0 1 min

Speed 5.0 1 min

Speed 6.0 1 min

Speed 7.0 1 min

Incline 3.0

Speed 3.0 1 min

Speed 4.0 1 min

Speed 5.0 1 min

Speed 6.0 1 min

Speed 7.0 1 min

Incline 4.0

Speed 3.0 1 min

Speed 4.0 1 min

Speed 5.0 1 min

Speed 6.0 1 min

Speed 7.0 1 min

Incline 5.0

Speed 3.0 1 min

Speed 4.0 1 min

Speed 5.0 1 min

Speed 6.0 1 min

Speed 7.0 1 min

Incline 4.0

Speed 3.0 1 min

Speed 4.0 1 min

Speed 5.0 1 min

Speed 6.0 1 min

Speed 7.0 1 min

Incline 3.0

Speed 3.0 1 min

Speed 4.0 1 min

Speed 5.0 1 min

Speed 6.0 1 min

Speed 7.0 1 min

Incline 2.0

Speed 3.0 1 min

Speed 4.0 1 min

Speed 5.0 1 min

Speed 6.0 1 min

Speed 7.0 1 min

Incline 1.0

Speed 3.0 1 min

Speed 4.0 1 min

Speed 5.0 1 min

Speed 6.0 1 min

Speed 7.0 1 min

Incline 0

Walk 5 mins cool down

Until Next Time...

Lots of exciting stuff happening this week and it's only Tuesday!

2009-05-05T09:19:00.000-04:00

Hello! Been a while since I updated so here I am. Still plugging away and putting in the time and energy. 5 weeks to go until Atlantic States...and then I think I might take a break for a while. I need to focus on running my personal training business and getting that to where I would like it to be. But, competing is in my blood so it won't be a long break...trust me!

So this week a lot of exciting things happened:

1) I was sent interview questions by Jimmy Smith to be highlighted on his website! That's exciting...so once that's up I will post up the link for everyone to see!

2) My latest interview is up on Fitness All Access. This interview with Jeff was after my last competition in NYC. You'll have to do a little searching but it should be under videos on the 2nd page and look for "Jennifer Nash 2009 NPC NY Metropolitan Championships."

3) I sent over a testimonial to Natural Synergy thanking them for the BCAAs I purchased from them early in my training and they wrote me back saying they were going to post my testimonial and my before and after pics on their on-line store's website as well as send me 10 bottles of BCAAs to help me continue my training!

4) Finally, I got invited by Tom Richardson to join the Tight Curves Team!!! WAHOO... That's some AWESOME news. Of course I am going to take the offer! That's so exciting. I think this might really help me...as well as keep in very good shape in the off season...especially since I will be representing a product and may also be working booths at shows and other events, so I will have to stay in shape. I will also get product through out the year to help me with my contest prep, (and to just remain healthy in the off season too.) I will also have a profile on their website. Once that is set up I will also share!!!

Besides that...I found that Body Sport Radio not only does the Fitness & Figure Talk radio with Terry and Elaine, but Terry does a show with Ana Tigre called The Fizeek Show and it's all about NPC competitors/shows/rules and not IFBB pros. HOW EXCITING!!! So, I've been listening to those shows the last day and a half. If you haven't heard and you compete amature or think you want to LISTEN TO IT. It's a wealth of info!

So, between all of the good news I've gotten...the new podcast I've found...oh, and also reading Tosta Reno's book "The Eat Clean Diet"...I'm super pumped and excited for training this week. Good thing too because sometimes it all gets too stale.

Time for a Tight Curves shake...have to take my chicken out of the oven...and head off to the gym...

Until Next Time....

I think it's time for an update...

2009-04-30T16:56:00.000-04:00

So I am back from NYC...and it was fun. The gym in the hotel was open 24 hours so I was able to still get my work outs in. Funny story about the gym:

I was on the rowing machine which was next to/behind one of the weight stacks of the cable cross over machine. This guy went to use the weight stack on the other side (not next to me) to do tricep rope push downs (or maybe over head tris with the rope...I didn't really see) Anyhow...as he pulls the weight stack down the cable BREAKS!!! and the weight stack slams down and there the guy is left standing holding the rope and staring in disbelief at what just happened. OH MY GOD...I was so happy it wasn't the weight stack next to me because that cable went FLYING and I can just see it whipping me in the face or something!!! LOL...no one got hurt thank God!!! It was still funny to see the guy standing there with the rope in his hand...LOL

So...today I cranked out alot...45 mins on the bike followed by 15 mins on the Treadmill this morning. Looked like this:

Cardio Workouts:
Cardio #1: Bike 45 Minutes

Time Level
0-10 5
10-13 8
13-17 10
17-22 8
22-25 10
25-29 5
29-34 8
34-37 10
37-45 3

Treadmill 15 minutes

Time Speed Incline

0-3 mins 3.8 0
3min-6min 4.5 5
6min-9min 5.0 0
9min-12min 4.5 5
12min-15min 3.8 0

I was a bit disappointed this one didn't burn as many calories as other cardio workouts. But, what I did learn today was that when you are crunched for time and you need to get in the cardio and calorie burn to walk fast or better yet RUN UP HILL. Way more calorie burn than the bike BY FAR.

Later in the afternoon I did another 30 minute Treadmill workout (combo of fast walks, jogs, and sprints) followed by a KICK ASS leg workout...then another 30 minutes on the Treadmill (Mostly sprint/jogs)

I teach class tonight for 2 1/2 hours (CORE Abs & Back...Kickboxing...and Boot Camp) So I'll get in a little more calorie burn later. Off to a quick shower then back to the studio to teach.

Until next time...

My Latest Creation...

2009-04-26T13:38:00.000-04:00

So, I am back to eating Tilapia...not a fan really...I've been covering it in Mustard to get to down, so I wanted to try a new recipe. I took the almonds I'm allowed to eat with the fish meal and chopped them up and added Mrs. Dash No Salt added Garlic Herb seasoning to the mix. Then after covering the fish in egg whites I "breaded" the fish with the mixture I created...Then baked it with some broccoli. Looks good, but I haven't tired it yet. I know I usually list nutritional info, but I don't have time to do that today since we are leaving for NYC in about an hour and still have to pack everything up (even the puppy! He's going to stay with his "Aunt.")

I'll try to update while in NYC. Hope all you NY & NJ people are all enjoying this great weather we are having!

Until Next Time!

Cardio Killer - Run - Bike - Run

2009-04-26T10:17:00.000-04:00

Ok, so this one took me longer than an hour...let's see how fast you can do it!!! Try it out and let me know! This one (according to the BodyBugg) burned over 500 calories...

Upright Bike - Level 10 - Ride for 5 miles

Jump off and hit the Treadmill - Incline - 0, Speed 8.0 - 2 minutes (I put on my routine music!)

Upright Bike - Level 5 - Ride for 5 miles

Jump off and hit the Treadmill - Incline - 0, Speed 9.0 - 2 minutes

Upright Bike - Level 1 -Ride for 5 miles

Jump off and hit the Treadmill - Incline - 0, Speed 10.0 - 2 minutes

How do you like them apples???

Good Luck!

Cardio Challenge - Let me know if you try this!

2009-04-24T14:10:00.000-04:00

Just did this today as part one of my cardio and work out. It's sooooo nice out I think I'll do my other cardio session outside! Let me know if you try it...and what you think!

I burned just about 600 calories with this one...it's not easy! Give it a try!

Jog/Walk Treadmill Hill Ladder
Warm up walk on flat for 5 mins then:
Incline 1 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 2 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 3 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 4 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 5 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 6 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 7 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 8 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 9 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 10 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 11 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline1 2 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 13 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 14 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 15 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 14 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 13 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 12 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 11 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 10 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 9 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 8 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 7 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 6 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 5 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 4 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 3 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 2 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 1 1 Min 4.0, 1 Min 5.0
Incline 0 1 Min 4.01 Min 5.0

6 weeks to go...June 6th here I come

2009-04-23T06:51:00.000-04:00

Hey guys...updates haven't come as often as I'd like...but I haven't had 2 seconds to sit down at the computer! I guess with being back on training and my new puppy (who is getting MUCH better by the way, thank you to everyone who was concerned) is SUPER time consuming!!!

Ahhh...but I am back with an update. I can't let you down!! I received my new workouts and diet this week and so far I am loving it. Last training cycle when I had my melt down, my diet became super mega strict with nothing but chicken and asparagus...so I am HAPPY to be back eating oatmeal, brown rice, and nuts!!! The work outs so far are the best I think I've gotten. I don't know if it's because I am so conditioned now that they seem easier...and I don't mean easier like I don't sweat...i mean I get through them faster...I am able to move on without as long of breaks. It feels good. My 2 new favorite exercise (so far...I still have a few other workouts to get in this week) are 1) heavy cable row in a deep squat position and 2) Burpee/Pop Squat combo.. LOVE BOTH of them! Walking lunges and bench step ups were on the top of my list for favorite exercises, but I think they just moved down the list with these two new exercises!

I didn't post progress pics last time around...but I think I might this time...to keep me accountable and also to help everyone else stay motivated too! I really appreciate all of the comments and support for you ladies...it really keeps me going!

I will be in NYC from Sunday-Wed on a mini vaca that my boyfriend won from work. I know I have to keep on the workouts and diet...so it might be hard to REALLY enjoy myself...but I'm going to look into the gym there. We are staying at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square...I'll be in NYC...there will prob be a gym on every corner! Maybe I can fine a 24 Hour Fitness...and go work out when my boyfriend is sleeping! LOL Anyone know of good gyms in NYC? Maybe you can join me as a training partner if you are near by!

Ok, well I have to go and update my web page, email clients, etc, etc. Have a great day, everyone...more updates soon.

Until Next Time...

Quick Update

2009-04-20T11:14:00.001-04:00

So today I am back on hard training and the diet...the puppy is sick and is ALOT of work. We have to force feed him and give him medicine...it's so hard...I hope he ends up being ok! I love the little guy...

So, far I did 40 mins of cardio this AM...still owe 1 hour 20 mins of cardio for the day...did my Back workout...it was done pretty quickly. I love lifting back...I can go heavy and it usually is a short workout...I don't know if I'm just conditioned to to do quickly, or it's just an easy body part for me to do. It's 11:17am and my Bodybugg reads 1335 calories burned so far today (since 12:01am.) I am hoping to reach 3000-3200 calories burned everyday. I'll update you with that too.

Ok...off to see the puppy, and train a string clients. Then of course more cardio for me later.

Until next time....

One last weekend of R&R...Back to hard work on Monday!

2009-04-17T10:56:00.000-04:00

This Saturday will mark 7 weeks until Atlantic States...June 6th...my next fitness show. This one will also be at Tribeca Performing Arts Center in NYC. This will be the 3rd time competing fitness there and I really hope I can pull this one out. I've gotten 2nd twice...after thinking I had it in the bag...so this time...I BETTER WIN!!! I am going to work my butt off to get it. I'm tired of 2nd place!

Dieting and training start on Monday...so I am going to enjoy my meals for the next few days. Today I am ordering sushi for lunch. YUMMY. I also will be snacking on Cottage Cheese and fruit, Sweet Potatoes, granola (man I love granola), bananas, strawberries and whipped cream, maybe some pizza or Mexican.

It's going to be near 70 degrees today so I think I will do cardio outside today. Great weather puts me in an instant good mood. I love the sun!

Well, it's just about time to order my sushi...take care of some client paperwork and emails before I have a few clients to train so I better end here.

Looking forward to picking up my new PUPPY from "grandma's" house later. I miss the little guy!

Until next time...

Pictures! Videos! Results!

2009-04-13T11:23:00.000-04:00

Drum Roll Please.................................2nd place. I know, I know...not bad...but who wants to come in 2nd!?!?! I had a great time and I ROCKED my routine and I looked the best I have ever looked BUT....I know I have to work harder so that next time I can WIN!

I enjoyed myself on Easter and ate ALOT...but I am ready to relax for a few days...eat good...clean, but not as strict as the past 4 weeks had been...and start up for the June 6th competition. I'm going to call my trainer mid-week to see what the next step is.

Pro Tan Time - One of many layers! LOL

2009-04-10T16:59:00.001-04:00

Back home for now....having my sister tan me up for a second layer...then take pictures to send to my trainer for an assessment on what to eat (or not eat) next.

Feeling crappy...a little bit like "La-La Land" but I'm sure I'll be fine tomorrow.

I received the chocolates I ordered...and HOLY CRAP are there ALOT. I didn't think I was going to share with anyone...but there is NO WAY I'll be able to eat it all myself if Sunday is the only day I can pig out before getting back on track. So, good news to my family...I will be sharing!

Ok...getting tan and then out to do a few more things...be back later!

PREP DAY! Hitting the stage in about 24 hours!

2009-04-10T08:57:00.000-04:00

Today I am not working. I didn't schedule any clients or hold any classes because I need the whole day to MYSELF! One day off prior to contest is ok...but I've now learned that maybe 2 full days will be better. I'm thinking...next show I'll work half a day on Wednesday and take off Thurs & Fri.

Anyhow...here it is Friday morning 9am. Slept in again to 6:45am (which is late for me) and it felt good. My first order of business this morning at 10:15 is an appointment at The Body Wrap Shoppe. I usually visit them a few times prior to contest to get body wraps. I feel that it helps me look and feel better. If you are in the Tri-State area (NY-NJ-PA) I would highly recommend them. They also do airbrush tanning. This is where I go for my first coat of tan. The color looks really good too. For example...after my last show my first year competing I was in the Bahamas the day after my contest. One of the locals said,"Girl...you have a NICE tan! Where you from?" HAHA If he only knew what my Irish behind REALLY looks like and that it was 100% fake tan! HAHA...goes to show you how real it looks!

My sister gets off of work at 1pm and will be my right hand girl the next 2 days. It's great when one of us is competing and the other one is not (we compete together sometimes...) because this way at least ONE of us had our head straight!!! She's awesome at taking charge of the situation and managing me during this crazy time. I think I'm actually going to hire her as my assistant for my Personal Training company!!! (If she's lucky...maybe I'll even PAY her! LOL)

Today I think I may be posting a few times to update you through out my day. Excited to post pictures and hopefully my routine video this weekend so you all can see!

Thanks for following my journey...be back later to update!!

Ehhh...Counting Down the Hours Until I can EAT

2009-04-09T22:21:00.000-04:00

My current Facebook Status reads:

"Facebook is asking me what's on my mind. Let's see: Rice Krispy treats, sushi, pizza, everything bagels toasted with butter, turkey club sandwich, Starbucks, the home made chocolates I bought and are waiting to receive, oatmeal, sweet potato fries, yogurt, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, ice cream sandwiches, pancakes, cupcakes, brownies, grilled cheese, spinach dip...I'm sure there's more...."

Speaking of Facebook...you should find me and friend me!

Ran my routine today full out 3 times. The first 2 times I was by myself and it was really really hard...but I made it through...the 3rd time I ran it...I had a small audience (some of my clients) and it magically was easier...even though it was the 3rd time around. I think I just need an audience...lol. I hope that's what it was because that means on Sat I'll have an audience AND adrenaline! I hope that combo makes for a killer performance!

Ahhhh...off to bed to sleep...FINALLY...prep day tomorrow...body wrap, tan, nails, shopping for last minute items. But hopefully mostly relaxing and doing nothing. I'm looking forward to just resting.

Until next time!

This is what I've been waiting for...

2009-04-08T06:00:00.000-04:00

3 days from now I will be well on my way to the Steve Stone Metropolitan Championships in NYC for my first fitness show of the year. I feel like there is still so much to do between now and then! There are definitely a few odds and ends I have to take care of, like pick up eye lashes, find out what food I need to pack for that day...TAN...etc.

Since starting this journey back in December it seemed like it was NEVER going to happen...the changes in my body...BUT...I guess what they say is true...patience is a virtue. Yesterday I FINALLY saw it in myself. Do you know how hard it is to see the changes in yourself when you see your naked behind in the mirror EVERYDAY??? I tell my clients the same thing...you are the LAST person to see changes in yourself...and one day...BAM...there they are...it's not that they weren't there before...it's just that you finally noticed them!

This happened when I was running my routine last night. I almost couldn't believe that was my body in the mirror!!! Who knew I would have visible veins running up my arms...or a visible six pack....not me!

Finally seeing these changes in myself have made this all worth it for me...the hard work HAS paid off...and I'm still so early in this process. I know I have more to go this season...and it's exciting that I know I can look even better in the weeks to come.

I certainly couldn't have done this without the guidance of my coaches. Having a knowledgeable support system is KEY. You can try to do this by yourself...but you're only going to get so far...and you might miss some of the key details you need to actually pay very close attention to.

Today? Hitting the weights for the last time this week...banging out some cardio...sending pictures to my trainer...AND PRAYING THAT MY SUIT COMES TODAY! LOL (I'm so, getting anxiety over this!!!)

To everyone out there following this blog...thank you...and keep pushing towards YOUR goals...no matter WHAT they might be! It WILL be worth it in the end...and you will be very happy with yourself once you get there.

Until next time...

WANTED: JENN NASH CRIME: ASSAULT OF A TREADMILL

2009-04-06T11:32:00.000-04:00

Watch out...this girl is DANGEROUS...and she's still on the prowl. She has been seen carrying a gallon of water around. A brief description of her latest crime:

From 0-1.5 miles there was a steady beating at 7.0.

Then she kicked it up a notch...from 1.5-1.75 miles and the beatings got worse at a 8.0.

Finally, from 1.75 - 2.0 miles something really must have ticked her off because the treadmill was found with bruises from a 9.0 beating.

It's been rumored that the next beating will take place this afternoon...ATTENTION GYM OWNERS...this girl is no joke!!! Please have a Treadmill Doctor on hand...your poor little guys may need it.

Meeting with my trainer was a success!

2009-04-06T06:03:00.000-04:00

Chicken, chicken, and more chicken...Water, water, and more water. Egg whites...I just LOVE them. Can you tell I am in the last week of this 16 week journey!?!? I can't.

Met with my trainer this weekend to go over posing and take pictures. He was pleasantly surprised by my transformation to this point, even WITH my tragic freak out 4 weeks ago. Even though he's not THAT far away (only in NYC) I only get to see him maybe once per month...so in a way it's good that he doesn't see me everyday so he can rally see my changes...but I do send pics to him once per week. The pics don't match what I actually look like. I think that's why he was so surprised when he saw me. He said my pictures make me look like a giant (I'm only 5'2" lol) and have shoulders like a "linebacker" (his words...lol). Then when he saw me, he was like "Whoa...you don't look like your pictures." I guess it's true what they say about the camera adding 10lbs!!!

This week is all about staying on task...getting the cardio and workouts in...and especially the routine practice. I am very excited to perform this routine. I think the audience will be very entertained. I just hope I have at least ONE person to compete against!

Well, I woke up today at 5:15 and it's already 6:15...how did an hour go by already? Man...time FLIES! Off to hit up some cardio before teaching Boot Camp and training some clients.

More updates to come this week...hopefully daily...we'll see how my schedule pans out!

My Musical Inspiration today isn't musical...lol but it IS on my iPod...so I guess it counts. If you haven't seen MadeFit TV then you need to. Jennifer DiDonato is a fantastic host, a great trainer, and even has a little Martha Steward in her!!! Check out her online health and fitness show for training tips, recipes (OMG, MAKE the Protein Peanut Butter Balls...I'm serious...and let me know what you think.) You can subscribe to it via itunes, watch LIVE or see past shows on her website, and of course You Tube. She's a tiny POWER HOUSE and has become a great supporter and online friend. Do yourself a favor and check her out!

Until Next Time....

Just realized it's almost Saturday, which means I am 1 week out. SCARY!

2009-04-02T09:53:00.001-04:00

WOW...just realized that today is Thursday...it's getting close. I knew these last few weeks would go by fast. I can't believe I am almost at my first show of the season. I know once I get one in I will be back in the swing of it...for now, I am still nervous! I know I still have a long way to go.

Just waiting to get my suit back all designed up...Meeting with my trainer on Sunday to go over posing and so he can evaluate me. Maybe I'll have my suit back by then and can bring it with me to show him. I'm hoping I get the suit tomorrow...but I don't know if it will come that fast.

My personal training business is growing and getting very busy. So, that's great...but it's all happening at a very crazy and busy time in my life (competition season!)

Off to do some more cardio and weights...I was driving the other day and heard an old song twice (so I took it as a sign) and I think that will be my musical inspiration for today...and the rest of the week...and the rest of the season.

Smash Mouth - "All Star"

"Hey now you're an All Star,

get your game on - go play

Hey now you're a Rock Star,

get the show on - get paid

And all that glitters is gold

Only shooting stars break the mold" (my favorite line!)

Getting creative

2009-03-31T06:10:00.000-04:00

Ok...So when you are eating clean for a show you don't have many options for food...or at least I don't because I don't like fish. Chicken and asparagus has been on my menu for 3 weeks now..and even though it is better than Orange Roughy (ehhh...that was the stuff I was eating when I had my "fall off the wagon" experience about 3 weeks ago) it can get a little boring...so, I decided to experiment...and BOY WAS I HAPPY!

See my recipe below:

Chicken & Asparagus Recipe

Ingredients:

2 oz thinly sliced chicken breast

6 Asparagus Spears (Fresh)

1-2 Garlic Bulbs

Olive Oil

Montreal Chicken Grill Seasoning

Directions:

Roast Garlic in Terracotta Pot (Soak pot in water for about 15 mins. Set Oven at 400 degrees. Slice top off Garlic Bulb and place in pot with the cut off side up. Drizzle a small amount of Olive Oil over, cover and bake for 30-40 mins) When it’s done it should squeeze out like butter.

Spread the roasted (butter like) garlic on one side of the thin chicken breast. Place all 6 Asparagus spears in center of chicken and roll chicken around Asparagus and place on a baking sheet. Make sure the fold of the chicken is down as to hold everything together. Sprinkle Montreal Seasoning on top and bake at 400 for 20 mins.

DELISH!

Calories:

Chicken: 80 Calories 1g Fat 0g Carbs 17g Protein

Asparagus: 20 Calories 0g Fat 3.7g Carbs 2.2g Protein

Garlic: 4 calories 0g Fat 1g Carbs 0g Protein

Olive Oil: 39 Calories 4.5g Fat 0g Carbs 0g Protein

Totals: 143 calories 5.5g Fat 4.7 g Carbs 19.2g Protein

Team Effort...

2009-03-28T23:10:00.000-04:00

Today I met my sister at the gym for a workout. She also competes in fitness with me. Most of my prep for this upcoming season has been me, myself, and I. Sure, I've had support...but there's NOTHING like working out with someone. I feel like I get my BEST workouts when I am with someone...and there were only a handful of times I worked out with her. I think we may do that more often now, as she is 10 weeks out from her first show. (June 6th - NPC Atlantic States...which I will also be competing at.)

Today we played a cardio game that one of my coaches came up with. Check it out at her blog: Lishia Dean. It's hard, but SOOO fun. I think everyone in the gym thought we were NUTS! Haha...I love the reactions I get from people in the gym at the stuff I do. It's priceless. Most people can't even imagine ever training like that...and I kind of like the attention, even if it's weird looks and stares!

Sent pictures to my trainer today and he is happy with the progress I have made since the set back...and honestly, that makes me feel better too! I can't wait to compete. I know I will be very excited once I get my suit back designed...then I know it's almost time!

Well, I'm off to write up plans for clients as well as send off some e-mails.

Until next time...

I GOT MY SUIT!!!

2009-03-27T12:44:00.000-04:00

PosingWearOH MY GOD....I saw the box on the step today and couldn't open it fast enough!

First of all...I LOVE LOVE LOVE (can't stress that enough) the color. It's perfect! It's not designed yet, this is just the fitting....but I'm still so EXCITED!

The quality is AMAZING.

I was like "HOLY CRAP is this going to fit me!!!" LOL it looked SOOOOOOO SMALL. But...it fits. I still have 2 weeks to "tighten up."

The fitness costume came too...TINY....but it fits!!! This is the real deal...it's really happening...just 2 weeks from now I will be prepping for my FIRST SHOW of the year. I'm excited...nervous...anxious...excited...just thinking about it give me that adrenaline rush. This is going to be a GREAT competition year...I can just FEEL IT.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS LADIES AND GENTS!!! APRIL 11th!

2 1/2 weeks left....Yikes!

2009-03-26T08:35:00.000-04:00

The next 2 1/2 weeks are going to FLY by...I just know it. I know I've had some set backs but I still am WAAAAYYY ahead from where I was last year, BY FAR. I should be getting my suit and fitness costume this week for a fitting, meeting with my trainer next week for a posing practice, and running my routine so much that I will be doing it in my sleep. I am actually really excited to perform it...I am DYING to hear the crowds reaction when I'm done! That's always awesome!

My goals the next two weeks is to STAY FOCUSED, PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE...and start to gather everything I will need the day of the show...make any necessary appointments, etc.

This might be TMI...but all I'm going to say is that...I lucked out again...the outta town visitor will be gone the week before the show...girls, I know you know what I'm talking about. How I manage to get so lucky is beyond me...but I hope it continues to happen that way all season long! LOL

Until next time...

2009-03-23T05:16:00.000-04:00

It's 5:19am and I've been up since 5am. Saturday marked 3 weeks until the first competition. I had a good weekend...I videoed my routine and was able to SEE me do it other than trying to look in the mirror. I was impressed. I think it looks pretty good, for this stage in the game. If I just work it everyday as hard as I can I know I will smoke it the day of the show...because this little thing called adrenaline will kick in...God, how I love that!

I got my final 3 weeks from my coaches in terms of my training, but the diet is still the way we changed it after my little set back. It's ok. As long as it's not fish! LOL I know that my routine might be SOLID and rock the house, but if I come in stage in the swimsuit round looking like I just ate a box of donuts...I'm not going to get very far!

The next 3 weeks is all about tunnel vision. I actually learned that from my college track coach when I ran hurdles. He would always remind me not to be distracted as to what was going on around me, but focus on my goal, which is to get to the end of 10 hurdles FIRST...if I worrying about what the people next to me were doing, how could I focus 100% on myself. Great advice.

My musical inspiration today is not even music. I've been listening to Fitness, Figure, & Bikini Talk radio (which I get on iTunes, but can also be found on the BodySport Network.) Terry & Elaine Goodlad are an awesome husband and wife team that produce a GREAT podcast. I highly recommend it to any woman interested in this sport. There is no bodybuilding talk, it's all about fitness, figure (and now bikini.) They not only give the play by play of different contests (NPC & IFBB, so it's not ALL about the pros) but they have some of the BEST interviews with very inspirational people. Many current competitors, current & past champions, and others in the industry who don't compete, but have a great deal to say, like JM Manion. This radio show pumps me up in many ways. If I hear an interview with Jen Hendershott or Tracey Greenwood, I want to go and run my routine as hard as I can. But then there are other women they talk to, like Carla Sanchaez or Ana Tigre who built phenomenal businesses around being in this sport, and being a business owner myself it's VERY inspirational.

So, with that said...I better get a move on. I have a VERY BUSY day today working with clients, and I'm up early so I can get in my first round of cardio.

Until next time...

Video Shoot...

2009-03-21T09:11:00.001-04:00

Today I am having my sister video chunks of my routine so I can send it to my coaches. This will be the first time I will get to see myself doing it (other than trying to sneak peeks in the mirror while doing it...but that's hard, especially when you are flipping around!)

It's VERY CHALLENGING...so I will probably film it in 3 sections. I hope it looks as good as Lishia thought it would look when she created it!

I am debating whether or not I will make the videos public. I might want to keep it a secret!!!

My Musical Inspiration today - Ozzy "I don't wanna stop." This song best describes me:

"All my life I've been over the top

I don't know what I'm doing,

All I know is I don't wanna stop

All fired up, I'm gonna go till I drop

You're either in or in the way

Don't make me, I don't wanna stop"