My blogs have had various incarnations over the years. I started blogging at neophytegirl.net a long time ago, when I had my own domain. This was many years ago. I know I had a backup of it sometime ago, but I can't find it.....at least at the moment. I've had my LJ and now recently I had toocurvyagain at wordpress and abostongirlinglasgow which I merged into one.
But I think it is time for a change. I'm still a Boston girl. I'm still in Glasgow. But that isn't who I am and it isn't what defines me. I was going to have a vote or a suggestion entry about what I should change the name of my blog to. And then I realized, having someone else name it, won't work.
Hence- Cindy's struggles. That is my name, and well my life has been a series of struggles.
So that is that.
The London trip was fun and packed and yes, I met David Tennant and Catherine Tate. The play was brilliant. Absolutely brilliant- I want to go back and see it again and again (and if I can get down there to see it again, I will- after my dissertation is done, of course!) I hope to get to write up about the play ASAP.
As far as the healthiness journey goes, I'm working on eliminating gluten to see if it helps with the headaches. I hope to get back to the gym this week as well. If it doesn't happen, I am not going to stress too much over it as I believe I have about 2 weeks to finish my dissertation, and that has to come first. I will have plenty of time afterwards.
How do you deal with stress, deadlines, and workouts?
Showing posts with label fitness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fitness. Show all posts
02 July 2011
15 June 2011
Thank you
Thank you to everyone who posted comments about my trials and tribulations and everyone who offered support over Facebook and Twitter re: our break in.
We have had the police check for fingerprints (no go) and they did take some DNA swabs from the computer cables. So far no news. I honestly am not expecting any. This way I don't get my hopes up and magically hope my computer arrives back in perfect condition. So I am buying a new one today (despite the fact I'm low on funds) b/c I cannot live here at the library 24/7 every time I need to use a computer and using my iPhone as much as I love it, is not conducive to doing work.
I'm still sick. :( This has been going on a month and I am going back to the GP today and I am begging for something b/c I am so tired of feeling ill. I didn't sleep well last night, half on the couch, half in bed, alternating from freezing and sweating and being unable to breathe through my nose. :( My sinuses feel like they have cement inside them. :(
I also plan on asking about a dietician referral.
I really hope I feel better soon b/c I miss Pilates and spinning!
We have had the police check for fingerprints (no go) and they did take some DNA swabs from the computer cables. So far no news. I honestly am not expecting any. This way I don't get my hopes up and magically hope my computer arrives back in perfect condition. So I am buying a new one today (despite the fact I'm low on funds) b/c I cannot live here at the library 24/7 every time I need to use a computer and using my iPhone as much as I love it, is not conducive to doing work.
I'm still sick. :( This has been going on a month and I am going back to the GP today and I am begging for something b/c I am so tired of feeling ill. I didn't sleep well last night, half on the couch, half in bed, alternating from freezing and sweating and being unable to breathe through my nose. :( My sinuses feel like they have cement inside them. :(
I also plan on asking about a dietician referral.
I really hope I feel better soon b/c I miss Pilates and spinning!
13 June 2011
Fitblog from June 7th
I'm still blog catchup from last week when I was sick.
Q1. What current thought keeps you from being your healthiest right now?
I feel currently like I am a failure. I'm at my highest weight. I can't seem to get on a routine. Even when I am working out and eating well, I am not losing weight. I have been to doctors and all they tell me is to keep trying, that there is nothing wrong with me. Maybe there isn't but it doesn't make me any less frustrated when just going up stairs makes me want to collapse.
Q2. What current action/habit keeps you from being your healthiest right now?
"Not having time." I am post grad student trying to finish my dissertation so I spend a lot of time doing research and writing. I also can't seem to get out of bed most days before noon. Both these things are keeping me from being on a "normal" schedule.
Q3. What do you need to change that action? How can we help?
I need to find a way to reset my sleep schedule, get myself up earlier, always have healthy options in place (or to be on some sort of plan be it Tony Ferguson, SlimFast or low carb as I seem to work better when I am on a restrictive plan- even if it is isn't 100% reasonable long term. That was how I lost 85 lbs before, and it looks like I am the kind of person who needs to be all or nothing. I guess I need assistance in figuring what plan would be best for me, and having someone to help me implement and stay on track. Having comments and people rooting for me also would help.
Q4. What one feat/challenge (big or small) will you try/do/work towards this month?
I will try to drink 100oz of water per day. That is a goal I can easily achieve.
Q1. What current thought keeps you from being your healthiest right now?
I feel currently like I am a failure. I'm at my highest weight. I can't seem to get on a routine. Even when I am working out and eating well, I am not losing weight. I have been to doctors and all they tell me is to keep trying, that there is nothing wrong with me. Maybe there isn't but it doesn't make me any less frustrated when just going up stairs makes me want to collapse.
Q2. What current action/habit keeps you from being your healthiest right now?
"Not having time." I am post grad student trying to finish my dissertation so I spend a lot of time doing research and writing. I also can't seem to get out of bed most days before noon. Both these things are keeping me from being on a "normal" schedule.
Q3. What do you need to change that action? How can we help?
I need to find a way to reset my sleep schedule, get myself up earlier, always have healthy options in place (or to be on some sort of plan be it Tony Ferguson, SlimFast or low carb as I seem to work better when I am on a restrictive plan- even if it is isn't 100% reasonable long term. That was how I lost 85 lbs before, and it looks like I am the kind of person who needs to be all or nothing. I guess I need assistance in figuring what plan would be best for me, and having someone to help me implement and stay on track. Having comments and people rooting for me also would help.
Q4. What one feat/challenge (big or small) will you try/do/work towards this month?
I will try to drink 100oz of water per day. That is a goal I can easily achieve.
08 June 2011
How do you do it?
Every day I read a lot of blogs (mostly when I should be working on my dissertation) and one thing I've noticed overall is how almost all the writers are up early working out or up early working (even if they aren't working in the workplace.)
As a grad student I make my own hours, and I find it difficult to get up before noon. Getting up today at around 10:30ish was killer and required a nap later on. Even when on vacation in London when we had to get up for free breakfast (which is a real motivator in my books) we managed it twice. And that was only making sure we were up by 9:20, a feat which should be relatively easy.
Even when I was working full time and had to get up at 6ish, it was difficult and it took a lot of coffee to get me going. Don't even get me started on trying to workout before. The few times I attempted it left me red faced, sweaty and icky, and that was before dealing with the kids at school!
So, how do you do it? Is sleeping late the cause of my weight gain and inability to lose weight? Is it the wacky hours I keep? Is it eating dinner at 9pm or later? Or is it my laziness? Is it caused by being so far away from home and knowing that if I go out, when I come back I have to walk up 3 flights of stairs which makes my ankle hurt and my lungs want to collapse? Is it a side effect of all those years of meds which never worked to try to fix my headache which still hasn't gone away, or from wrecking my body with Optifast in 2006?
Am I just making excuses?
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I think I know I am frustrated. I expected in the 2 weeks I worked out a lot to have lost at least a pound. Right? I was eating better, working out, I had more energy. So of course I gained 3 pounds.
Being sick for the past 2 weeks hasn't really helped and I've managed a handful of workouts and the 5K b/c I haven't had the energy or been able to breathe from the coughing to workout. (I've been to the doctor- they said it lasts 2-3 weeks, and there is nothing they can do, I just need rest and fluids, which I've been doing.)
I hope after my quickie trip to London this weekend I will be feeling more myself and back to working out and whatnot. Because I certainly do not want to feel this way anymore.
How do you overcome setbacks?
Are you a morning person?
As a grad student I make my own hours, and I find it difficult to get up before noon. Getting up today at around 10:30ish was killer and required a nap later on. Even when on vacation in London when we had to get up for free breakfast (which is a real motivator in my books) we managed it twice. And that was only making sure we were up by 9:20, a feat which should be relatively easy.
Even when I was working full time and had to get up at 6ish, it was difficult and it took a lot of coffee to get me going. Don't even get me started on trying to workout before. The few times I attempted it left me red faced, sweaty and icky, and that was before dealing with the kids at school!
So, how do you do it? Is sleeping late the cause of my weight gain and inability to lose weight? Is it the wacky hours I keep? Is it eating dinner at 9pm or later? Or is it my laziness? Is it caused by being so far away from home and knowing that if I go out, when I come back I have to walk up 3 flights of stairs which makes my ankle hurt and my lungs want to collapse? Is it a side effect of all those years of meds which never worked to try to fix my headache which still hasn't gone away, or from wrecking my body with Optifast in 2006?
Am I just making excuses?
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Being sick for the past 2 weeks hasn't really helped and I've managed a handful of workouts and the 5K b/c I haven't had the energy or been able to breathe from the coughing to workout. (I've been to the doctor- they said it lasts 2-3 weeks, and there is nothing they can do, I just need rest and fluids, which I've been doing.)
I hope after my quickie trip to London this weekend I will be feeling more myself and back to working out and whatnot. Because I certainly do not want to feel this way anymore.
How do you overcome setbacks?
Are you a morning person?
05 June 2011
Race for Life 5K recap
The morning dawned far too early and chilly for my liking. I still wasn't feeling (and still am not) better, but I downed cold meds and vitamins with a cup of coffee and rushed around getting ready. I don't like to be late for things, especially when I am not 100% sure of where I am going, and I didn't double check the time the bus was leaving, so we ended up taking a later one, which ended up being fine. One thing we learned today, don't get off the bus when everyone else does- they might not have a clue where they are going either!
After a bit of wandering through Buchanan and St. Enoch, and a stop at Costa for Steph, we followed the sea of pink to Glasgow Green. We dropped off 2 bags of clothing donations, and headed for the start. Steph planned to run most of it, and I planned to do a mix, depending on whether or not I could breathe (not very well).
We were separated quickly, so I cranked up the tunes and read people's messages of hope on their bibs as they passed me (gasping for air mostly LOL). This hit a little close to home, as I would see young women and kids with bibs that said "for my mummy." I hadn't realized (and IDK why) messages of hope and remembrance could be for anyone, not just people who had passed away from breast cancer. (The large amount of remembrances for dads and grandpa's showed this.) I definitely would have done my bib differently had I known.
I had a hard time keeping my heart rate down due to being ill and the cold meds I am sure. I ended up walking more than I hoped b/c my heart rate was in the 150-160 range even while walking, and when running would boot up to over 180 very quickly. I also wish I had reset my Nike+ at the start, as opposed to when I started it up walking TO the race. There were no mile markers or water stops (??? why ???) so I had no idea of my time or how far I had gone. My "official" finish was 43 minutes and change give or take, which is pretty good for an out of shape, and way too overweight for her height 35 year old! (ok, it isn't, and I was humbled by many people I would consider not in the best shape passing me, including the elderly and those with canes. Yes, I kid you not.)
Once I finally saw a mile marker for 4K, I was so relieved and I picked up my pace. Finally I saw where the finish line was and pretty much sprinted (as much as I can sprint) to it! I was greeted by volunteers and received a medal, a carry bag with random items, and a bottle of water (thank goodness).
Steph finished in 34 minutes and I am very proud of her- I never did a 34 minute 5K when I was in the best of shape and FAR skinnier. (is also jealous)
I did try to take some pics along the way..... Some of my pics are dark, and I do apologize.
I do wish I had gotten pics of us before or after the race but that didn't happen. Oops. I was very glad when it was over and I could sit down for a few and use my inhaler. We had a bit of a hard time meeting up, but we did find each other in the sea of pink, and headed off to find food. I was STARVING. This is probably the first race I've ever done where I was so hungry after.
We made our way away from the Green and back through Merchant City and St. Enoch where we got the subway back to Hillhead and headed to Little Italy for pizza (to make up for all the calories I lost!). The pizza was great and so was the cappuccino. We stopped at a few shops on the way back, and then headed home, where I hit the showers.
We must have walked (and run) at least 5.5-6 miles in all today. (I turned off the timers/trackers after leaving the Green) Not bad!
My legs are a little sore, and I am tired. I hope for my next 5K I am not sick, and I weigh considerably less.
How was your weekend? Did you run in any races?
After a bit of wandering through Buchanan and St. Enoch, and a stop at Costa for Steph, we followed the sea of pink to Glasgow Green. We dropped off 2 bags of clothing donations, and headed for the start. Steph planned to run most of it, and I planned to do a mix, depending on whether or not I could breathe (not very well).
We were separated quickly, so I cranked up the tunes and read people's messages of hope on their bibs as they passed me (gasping for air mostly LOL). This hit a little close to home, as I would see young women and kids with bibs that said "for my mummy." I hadn't realized (and IDK why) messages of hope and remembrance could be for anyone, not just people who had passed away from breast cancer. (The large amount of remembrances for dads and grandpa's showed this.) I definitely would have done my bib differently had I known.
I had a hard time keeping my heart rate down due to being ill and the cold meds I am sure. I ended up walking more than I hoped b/c my heart rate was in the 150-160 range even while walking, and when running would boot up to over 180 very quickly. I also wish I had reset my Nike+ at the start, as opposed to when I started it up walking TO the race. There were no mile markers or water stops (??? why ???) so I had no idea of my time or how far I had gone. My "official" finish was 43 minutes and change give or take, which is pretty good for an out of shape, and way too overweight for her height 35 year old! (ok, it isn't, and I was humbled by many people I would consider not in the best shape passing me, including the elderly and those with canes. Yes, I kid you not.)
Once I finally saw a mile marker for 4K, I was so relieved and I picked up my pace. Finally I saw where the finish line was and pretty much sprinted (as much as I can sprint) to it! I was greeted by volunteers and received a medal, a carry bag with random items, and a bottle of water (thank goodness).
Steph finished in 34 minutes and I am very proud of her- I never did a 34 minute 5K when I was in the best of shape and FAR skinnier. (is also jealous)
I did try to take some pics along the way..... Some of my pics are dark, and I do apologize.
 |
| running past the statues at George Square |
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| Idk LOL |
 |
| interesting |
architecture
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| Bridge and the River Clyde |
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| Greenhouse/Cafe on Glasgow Green |
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| Fountain at People's Palace |
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| People's Palace |
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| more info on the fountain |
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| I love this fountain! |
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| View across the way |
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| Look it's the fountain again! |
We made our way away from the Green and back through Merchant City and St. Enoch where we got the subway back to Hillhead and headed to Little Italy for pizza (to make up for all the calories I lost!). The pizza was great and so was the cappuccino. We stopped at a few shops on the way back, and then headed home, where I hit the showers.
We must have walked (and run) at least 5.5-6 miles in all today. (I turned off the timers/trackers after leaving the Green) Not bad!
My legs are a little sore, and I am tired. I hope for my next 5K I am not sick, and I weigh considerably less.
How was your weekend? Did you run in any races?
03 June 2011
Catch up Friday
I've been feeling so miserable the past few days I haven't done much of anything. I feel a tiny bit better today and finally feel hungry, so hopefully whatever this is is finally leaving my system. It also may explain why the practice 5K I did on Sunday was so miserable and I had no energy. It did help me to lose 3 pounds!
1. I did manage to go to Pilates on Tuesday which kicked my ass. That is the only formal workout I've had this week and may be the only one until Sunday. It sucks, but when I'm sick and feeling achy and miserable the last thing I want to do is exercise.
2. #Fitblog chat. Since I am in Glasgow, this means the chats are at 3am for me. I sometimes am awake, but this week, being under the weather, I was asleep. Here are my responses.
Q1) 75% give up on New Year's Resolutions within weeks. Let's discuss our goals for the second half of the year and how we plan to stick to them.
-keep going to the gym as much as I can while writing my dissertation
-don't give into temptation for take out b/c it is easier and means I don't have to do the dishes
-eat more whole grains
I plan to do this, by just DOING it, and not saying I am going to do it.
Q2) What are your goals for the rest of the year?
-lose a minimum of 20 lbs
-go to the gym/workout a minimum of 3 times/ week
-finish dissertation without losing my mind
Q3) How do you set goals?
I set goals by looking at my current habits and finding ways that I can change them positively.
Q4) What resources do you use to help you stick to your goals
Other blogs, health and fitness magazines, tracking my weight and activity and looking for trends.
3. Goals for this weekend?
-feel better, do as best as I can do on the 5K, and read for my dissertation
What are your weekend plans?
1. I did manage to go to Pilates on Tuesday which kicked my ass. That is the only formal workout I've had this week and may be the only one until Sunday. It sucks, but when I'm sick and feeling achy and miserable the last thing I want to do is exercise.
2. #Fitblog chat. Since I am in Glasgow, this means the chats are at 3am for me. I sometimes am awake, but this week, being under the weather, I was asleep. Here are my responses.
Q1) 75% give up on New Year's Resolutions within weeks. Let's discuss our goals for the second half of the year and how we plan to stick to them.
-keep going to the gym as much as I can while writing my dissertation
-don't give into temptation for take out b/c it is easier and means I don't have to do the dishes
-eat more whole grains
I plan to do this, by just DOING it, and not saying I am going to do it.
Q2) What are your goals for the rest of the year?
-lose a minimum of 20 lbs
-go to the gym/workout a minimum of 3 times/ week
-finish dissertation without losing my mind
Q3) How do you set goals?
I set goals by looking at my current habits and finding ways that I can change them positively.
Q4) What resources do you use to help you stick to your goals
Other blogs, health and fitness magazines, tracking my weight and activity and looking for trends.
3. Goals for this weekend?
-feel better, do as best as I can do on the 5K, and read for my dissertation
What are your weekend plans?
25 May 2011
All about me
After participating in last night's #fitblog on twitter (hosted beautifully by Skinny Emmie!) I got a ton of new followers. Hopefully this will translate to new followers and commenters here! So I figured I would post an about me. If you know me, feel free to move along.
I don't know where to begin really. I was born and raised in MA, USA. Up until last September, I lived in Boston as a substitute teacher. (I'm a licensed teacher in MA, in elementary education- but there are few jobs.) I am currently living in Glasgow, Scotland getting my second Masters in education. I will be spending the summer working on my dissertation on school bullying.
I've applied to the PhD program here and am waiting on finding out if I've been accepted. If so, I will be researching bullying and its effects on upper primary grade children. If I am not accepted, I will be having a nervous breakdown figuring out what I am going to do come September.
I've always been overweight. In 1999 I started working out and eating better (and a lot less) and lost 85 pounds. I didn't keep up the healthy lifestyle for a variety of reasons and over the past 10 years have gained all the weight back.
I tried several different diets, and in 2003 I went on Optifast. I got really ill on this diet and didn't lose much weight at all (~10lbs), despite eating less than 900 calories a day and running 3 days a week. Since then I have suffered from severe daily headaches that can leave me bedridden and miserable. I have had countless tests and have seen 5 different neurologists. The diagnoses range from chronic daily headache syndrome to chronic daily migraines. Not one of the 5 doctors have had a definitive diagnosis or agreed with one another. It is frustrating, but I try to manage as best as I can.
Earlier last year I had been doing a lot better weight wise and right before I had breast reduction surgery in July. After moving to Scotland and then losing my mum earlier this year, I've managed to gain a lot of weight despite trying various diet plans and recently going back to the gym. I am assuming that this has to do with me eating my emotions and not dealing with how I am feeling over moving and losing my mum. I mostly think I really like food and eating it- I just need to re-learn how to do it in moderation and not lose control.
Right now I am trying to get back into regular workouts as I love how it makes me feel (especially spinning), but I have a hard time staying motivated when I don't see any results. (I know I shouldn't expect to see a lot of results in 2 weeks, but I had hoped to have found I hadn't *gained* even more weight.)
Questions? Comments? Fire away!
I don't know where to begin really. I was born and raised in MA, USA. Up until last September, I lived in Boston as a substitute teacher. (I'm a licensed teacher in MA, in elementary education- but there are few jobs.) I am currently living in Glasgow, Scotland getting my second Masters in education. I will be spending the summer working on my dissertation on school bullying.
I've applied to the PhD program here and am waiting on finding out if I've been accepted. If so, I will be researching bullying and its effects on upper primary grade children. If I am not accepted, I will be having a nervous breakdown figuring out what I am going to do come September.
I've always been overweight. In 1999 I started working out and eating better (and a lot less) and lost 85 pounds. I didn't keep up the healthy lifestyle for a variety of reasons and over the past 10 years have gained all the weight back.
I tried several different diets, and in 2003 I went on Optifast. I got really ill on this diet and didn't lose much weight at all (~10lbs), despite eating less than 900 calories a day and running 3 days a week. Since then I have suffered from severe daily headaches that can leave me bedridden and miserable. I have had countless tests and have seen 5 different neurologists. The diagnoses range from chronic daily headache syndrome to chronic daily migraines. Not one of the 5 doctors have had a definitive diagnosis or agreed with one another. It is frustrating, but I try to manage as best as I can.
Earlier last year I had been doing a lot better weight wise and right before I had breast reduction surgery in July. After moving to Scotland and then losing my mum earlier this year, I've managed to gain a lot of weight despite trying various diet plans and recently going back to the gym. I am assuming that this has to do with me eating my emotions and not dealing with how I am feeling over moving and losing my mum. I mostly think I really like food and eating it- I just need to re-learn how to do it in moderation and not lose control.
Right now I am trying to get back into regular workouts as I love how it makes me feel (especially spinning), but I have a hard time staying motivated when I don't see any results. (I know I shouldn't expect to see a lot of results in 2 weeks, but I had hoped to have found I hadn't *gained* even more weight.)
Questions? Comments? Fire away!
24 May 2011
Not myself
I'm not feeling like myself today. I haven't really felt like myself since we came back from London. Even though my feet hurt, I had a lot of energy and felt good. Recently, I just feel tired and sluggish and blah and whatnot. I think it may have to do with the fact I'm out of my vitamin D supplement.
I think I am going to have to find a new and better GP if I am planning on staying here longer. The last time I went and had my ankle looked at, about 30 seconds was spent on examination. It just made me feel dismissed, like my issue wasn't real.
Anyways, I just feel blah. Not depressed (well not anymore than usual), not anxious, just blah. Maybe it is the weather, since it has been raining for what seems like forever now. It rains, we get a bit of sun, it rains. Repeat.
So I have no idea. I'm excited to work out, but can't get the motivation to do it. I have things I need to do and people to call etc, and can't "find the time." I just wish I was at the point where everything came easy; healthy living and eating and working out and working on my dissertation. Someday, some day soon I hope.
Today I had some me time and got my nails done and then I met Steph for lunch. We walked around a bit after and then we came back and I ran a load of laundry and took a nap. I meant to only sleep for a bit but it ended up being way longer than I wanted and missed spinning. :( Bad Cindy.
I also took a few photos of some of the damage that occurred in our neighborhood from the ridic winds here yesterday. Not that it even makes any comparison to what has happened in the US, but it was crazy what some wind can do.
Tomorrow is a new day- hopefully with better choices.
I think I am going to have to find a new and better GP if I am planning on staying here longer. The last time I went and had my ankle looked at, about 30 seconds was spent on examination. It just made me feel dismissed, like my issue wasn't real.
Anyways, I just feel blah. Not depressed (well not anymore than usual), not anxious, just blah. Maybe it is the weather, since it has been raining for what seems like forever now. It rains, we get a bit of sun, it rains. Repeat.
So I have no idea. I'm excited to work out, but can't get the motivation to do it. I have things I need to do and people to call etc, and can't "find the time." I just wish I was at the point where everything came easy; healthy living and eating and working out and working on my dissertation. Someday, some day soon I hope.
Today I had some me time and got my nails done and then I met Steph for lunch. We walked around a bit after and then we came back and I ran a load of laundry and took a nap. I meant to only sleep for a bit but it ended up being way longer than I wanted and missed spinning. :( Bad Cindy.
I also took a few photos of some of the damage that occurred in our neighborhood from the ridic winds here yesterday. Not that it even makes any comparison to what has happened in the US, but it was crazy what some wind can do.
Tomorrow is a new day- hopefully with better choices.
23 May 2011
Busy, wild weather Monday
If I were in Boston I could say there is quite a Nor'easter out there. But I am in Glasgow.....and it is WINDY. I mean 70mph gusts windy. The plants in the windows are waving to and fro it is that windy.
Today started off ok. I got my new Polar FT7 in the mail! :) It's the male version so it is kind of bulky and I could have sworn I selected the F version, but whatever. It is great and has lots of functions that my old one doesn't.
After I watched L&O: CI I took it on a trial run at the gym. I went at what I thought would have been a good time but I was wrong. Even at 12:30ish it was busy and the 2 Espinners were out of service. Combine that with the fact I was hungry and I ended up with a crappy workout.
I grabbed a sandwich at the gym cafe and then met Steph for coffee. I nearly got blown away waiting for the bus!
We then went to St. Enoch to run some errands and to go to 3 to see if we could get her an iPhone (which we did!) :) We walked around a bit and I am glad I didn't have too much of a hard core work out since I wouldn't have had much energy to walk around in the wind and rain! (I have no idea why that photo won't show up right side up!)
Anyways, I hope tomorrow will be a better workout day.
Today started off ok. I got my new Polar FT7 in the mail! :) It's the male version so it is kind of bulky and I could have sworn I selected the F version, but whatever. It is great and has lots of functions that my old one doesn't.
I grabbed a sandwich at the gym cafe and then met Steph for coffee. I nearly got blown away waiting for the bus!
Anyways, I hope tomorrow will be a better workout day.
21 May 2011
Yesterday/today catchup
I did about 25 mins of upper body and then C25K. I was VERY sweaty at the end. I wanted to spin some but both bikes were being used and the class was full so I walked to the bus and then headed home. Not bad. :)
I ordered a new Polar HRM that is more up to date and will help me better train. I can't wait to get my Polar FT7 HRM!
2. Grad school-I did meet with my professor on Thursday and he was totally fine that I hadn't gotten very far. We discussed some changes and I will be making for the paper and what else needs to be done. I also ran into some of my classmates and they hadn't done anything really either, so I don't feel bad or behind anymore. So I have 20,000 words to write for it. Good times. I have a TON of research done already. Just need to read it all.
3. Stephanie finished a big paper yesterday so we went out for dinner. I had grilled chicken and it came with a grilled veggie tart. It was delish. I also had some chips- b/c the chips at the Curler's Rest are so delish. And as a treat we had ice cream at the only Coldstone in Glasgow. I had tiramisu. Yum. :)
4. Today it's raining. It's miserable out and I have no desire to go out in it. I did walk a quick 2 miles to Boots and back to get my prescription and some coffee. My ankle is really tender today so staying off it seems like a good idea. Tomorrow I booked into a Body Pump class and that should be a good workout.
As for the rest of today- Doctor Who at 6:45 and some reading. A nice, quiet, lazy day.
15 May 2011
Saturday's workout
I had a great workout on Saturday. I did weights for 20 minutes (upper body), 30 minutes on the elliptical, and then another half hour on the treadmill doing C25K.
The C25K was the hardest by far. My ankle/foot was not happy about it, and it being the end of the workout, I was getting tired. At the end as I cooled down, I had taken off my headphones. I was feeling grumpy and frustrated over how difficult I found doing C25K. And playing at the gym was the song that had been my mom's ringback tone. And suddenly I felt a lot better. :)
I hope that I will have improved a lot by the time my first 5K comes about on 5th June. Stephanie and I are doing the Race for Life. If you are so inclined you can sponsor us here.
Today is being spent at the library working on my dissertation and research. My ankle needs the day off.
How have you gotten your workout on this weekend? Are you running any races soon?
And my fellow Whovians, what did you think of The Doctor's Wife? I thought it was brilliant and the best episode since the Tennant years!
The C25K was the hardest by far. My ankle/foot was not happy about it, and it being the end of the workout, I was getting tired. At the end as I cooled down, I had taken off my headphones. I was feeling grumpy and frustrated over how difficult I found doing C25K. And playing at the gym was the song that had been my mom's ringback tone. And suddenly I felt a lot better. :)
I hope that I will have improved a lot by the time my first 5K comes about on 5th June. Stephanie and I are doing the Race for Life. If you are so inclined you can sponsor us here.
Today is being spent at the library working on my dissertation and research. My ankle needs the day off.
How have you gotten your workout on this weekend? Are you running any races soon?
And my fellow Whovians, what did you think of The Doctor's Wife? I thought it was brilliant and the best episode since the Tennant years!
13 May 2011
back to it
Apparently my last post has vanished. I hope it comes back soon.
I went shopping this morning and spent WAY too much money! Oops. I got things that I needed and my niece her 5th birthday present.
After coffee and getting caught in the rain, I came home so I could get work done and ended up searching for travel options for my weekend trip to London next month.
Then, I went to spinning today for the first time since my surgery, which was almost 10 months ago! (In fact this was my first real HARD workout since then. I have been walking and things, but nothing overly exerting, hence the weight gain.) I wish I hadn't waited so long because it was wonderful. It was easier without the extra sports bra, and liberating as well! I am sure I will be sore tomorrow! I hope I can walk as it is Farmer's Market day!
So for an hour and nine minutes....
I thought it might be more, and it may be. I think my HRM needs a new battery.
I'm tired but energetic, and part of me wants to go out to the store, but the other part of me has no desire to put on not my jim jams and go out. It can wait until tomorrow. No one needs yogurt that badly.
I should be working on my dissertation right now as well, but it is Friday night. I do need to get a lot done in the next few days before my appt with my advisor.
Cheerio!
I went shopping this morning and spent WAY too much money! Oops. I got things that I needed and my niece her 5th birthday present.
After coffee and getting caught in the rain, I came home so I could get work done and ended up searching for travel options for my weekend trip to London next month.
Then, I went to spinning today for the first time since my surgery, which was almost 10 months ago! (In fact this was my first real HARD workout since then. I have been walking and things, but nothing overly exerting, hence the weight gain.) I wish I hadn't waited so long because it was wonderful. It was easier without the extra sports bra, and liberating as well! I am sure I will be sore tomorrow! I hope I can walk as it is Farmer's Market day!
I thought it might be more, and it may be. I think my HRM needs a new battery.
I'm tired but energetic, and part of me wants to go out to the store, but the other part of me has no desire to put on not my jim jams and go out. It can wait until tomorrow. No one needs yogurt that badly.
I should be working on my dissertation right now as well, but it is Friday night. I do need to get a lot done in the next few days before my appt with my advisor.
Cheerio!
12 May 2011
How Cindy got her gym groove back (or at least attempted to)
I will be honest. The uni gym is not all that it's cracked up to be. Which is why it's 40 pounds a year. Granted, I can't complain about spending that money for pretty much 3 workouts. Whatever. No worries. And I haven't gone regularly because 1. I'm lazy and 2. it sucks. It has none of the classes I like and it has like 7 treadmills. So.......
After walking around London I found I had more energy and felt better and actually lost like 6 pounds on vacation (eating mostly 99's and random food). So I decided to give Glasgow Club a try. They have locations all over the city, and some have hot tubs. (Thank God.)
I headed to the Scotstoun location (a 2 mile walk from home, or a short bus ride). I signed up and had my induction so I can use the equipment right away. They have pilates and spinning and I am SO excited. What was even cooler, is they have an eSpinner. An eSpinner is a spin bike that you can plug your iPod into and use your own spin workouts/podcasts/or just your own music. Or you can use a pre-embedded video workout. I did a bit of both kinds to see what it was like. I wish Bob Harper did the videos. The guy doing it is kind of douchey. But YMMV.
After I walked on the treadmill for a bit to calibrate my Nike+. (It was already calibrated right!)
And then I soaked in the hot tub. This is where I miss my old gym, Healthworks and their plushy, clean, plushy, high end, all women, beautiful, perfect club. (If you live in the Boston area, check them out!!!) With the giant jacuzzi and shower gel and shampoo in clean showers and the large vanities.... oh I could go ON! No gym will ever compare to Healthworks, and that is ok. Beacuse I found a place for a reasonable price for the time being where I can get my spinning and hot tub fix, and hopefully be skinnier in the process.
After walking around London I found I had more energy and felt better and actually lost like 6 pounds on vacation (eating mostly 99's and random food). So I decided to give Glasgow Club a try. They have locations all over the city, and some have hot tubs. (Thank God.)
I headed to the Scotstoun location (a 2 mile walk from home, or a short bus ride). I signed up and had my induction so I can use the equipment right away. They have pilates and spinning and I am SO excited. What was even cooler, is they have an eSpinner. An eSpinner is a spin bike that you can plug your iPod into and use your own spin workouts/podcasts/or just your own music. Or you can use a pre-embedded video workout. I did a bit of both kinds to see what it was like. I wish Bob Harper did the videos. The guy doing it is kind of douchey. But YMMV.
After I walked on the treadmill for a bit to calibrate my Nike+. (It was already calibrated right!)
And then I soaked in the hot tub. This is where I miss my old gym, Healthworks and their plushy, clean, plushy, high end, all women, beautiful, perfect club. (If you live in the Boston area, check them out!!!) With the giant jacuzzi and shower gel and shampoo in clean showers and the large vanities.... oh I could go ON! No gym will ever compare to Healthworks, and that is ok. Beacuse I found a place for a reasonable price for the time being where I can get my spinning and hot tub fix, and hopefully be skinnier in the process.
04 April 2011
Bleurg
Bleurg. This weight loss and exercise keeps getting derailed. First, my shoulder (which still isn't back to normal), my ankle (which is starting to get better), and my never ending headaches.
My weight is up again- only a pound, but still. I have now gained 30 pounds since my surgery in July. NOT THE RIGHT WAY AROUND.
I'm trying a few things out to see if it helps. I am starting to taper off on some of my meds to see if they are affecting my weight gain. We got a stability ball and a mini trampoline that I can use at home. I downloaded some Tae Bo and I am going to try to get to a spinning class this week. I am walking more, as much as my ankle will let me- as it heals.
I would really like to be down to 200 by the end of the month- which is not likely to happen but I would like it before I go to London- to look and feel better about myself.
My weight is up again- only a pound, but still. I have now gained 30 pounds since my surgery in July. NOT THE RIGHT WAY AROUND.
I'm trying a few things out to see if it helps. I am starting to taper off on some of my meds to see if they are affecting my weight gain. We got a stability ball and a mini trampoline that I can use at home. I downloaded some Tae Bo and I am going to try to get to a spinning class this week. I am walking more, as much as my ankle will let me- as it heals.
I would really like to be down to 200 by the end of the month- which is not likely to happen but I would like it before I go to London- to look and feel better about myself.
27 February 2011
Weigh in #2
Starting weight: 15 stone 4
Last week: 15 stone 3
This week: 15 stone
Horray me! Even with all this stress and whatnot, and my eating not being perfect and having not made it to the gym (0r even out of bed one day) I did lose weight. I know I didn't eat all of my 49'ers this week but came close. There were some things I had no idea now many points were in, and just made sure I mentally deducted like 15 points to give myself room, etc....
I also started several new meds and stopped some other ones for my headaches (now chronic migraines, or chronic daily headache with migranious tendencies). No idea how these will affect weight loss as I only started them mid week.
That being said I am worried about being home and still being able to be on track with the crap that is always there. Granted I am sure I will be stressed and when I get THAT stressed I feel to sick to eat.
I'm leaving Glasgow to head back to Boston tomorrow morning. I am scared and stressed out of my mind. I am not ready for this. I am not ready to lose my mum. :(
(So if there are no updates, that is why. )
Last week: 15 stone 3
This week: 15 stone
Horray me! Even with all this stress and whatnot, and my eating not being perfect and having not made it to the gym (0r even out of bed one day) I did lose weight. I know I didn't eat all of my 49'ers this week but came close. There were some things I had no idea now many points were in, and just made sure I mentally deducted like 15 points to give myself room, etc....
I also started several new meds and stopped some other ones for my headaches (now chronic migraines, or chronic daily headache with migranious tendencies). No idea how these will affect weight loss as I only started them mid week.
That being said I am worried about being home and still being able to be on track with the crap that is always there. Granted I am sure I will be stressed and when I get THAT stressed I feel to sick to eat.
I'm leaving Glasgow to head back to Boston tomorrow morning. I am scared and stressed out of my mind. I am not ready for this. I am not ready to lose my mum. :(
(So if there are no updates, that is why. )
Weigh in #2
Starting weight: 15 stone 4
Last week: 15 stone 3
This week: 15 stone
Horray me! Even with all this stress and whatnot, and my eating not being perfect and having not made it to the gym (0r even out of bed one day) I did lose weight. I know I didn't eat all of my 49'ers this week but came close. There were some things I had no idea now many points were in, and just made sure I mentally deducted like 15 points to give myself room, etc....
I also started several new meds and stopped some other ones for my headaches (now chronic migraines, or chronic daily headache with migranious tendencies). No idea how these will affect weight loss as I only started them mid week.
That being said I am worried about being home and still being able to be on track with the crap that is always there. Granted I am sure I will be stressed and when I get THAT stressed I feel to sick to eat.
I'm leaving Glasgow to head back to Boston tomorrow morning. I am scared and stressed out of my mind. I am not ready for this. I am not ready to lose my mum. :(
(So if there are no updates, that is why. )
Last week: 15 stone 3
This week: 15 stone
Horray me! Even with all this stress and whatnot, and my eating not being perfect and having not made it to the gym (0r even out of bed one day) I did lose weight. I know I didn't eat all of my 49'ers this week but came close. There were some things I had no idea now many points were in, and just made sure I mentally deducted like 15 points to give myself room, etc....
I also started several new meds and stopped some other ones for my headaches (now chronic migraines, or chronic daily headache with migranious tendencies). No idea how these will affect weight loss as I only started them mid week.
That being said I am worried about being home and still being able to be on track with the crap that is always there. Granted I am sure I will be stressed and when I get THAT stressed I feel to sick to eat.
I'm leaving Glasgow to head back to Boston tomorrow morning. I am scared and stressed out of my mind. I am not ready for this. I am not ready to lose my mum. :(
(So if there are no updates, that is why. )
20 February 2011
Weigh in #1
Today was my first weigh in. I lost 1 pound. :( I had hoped it would be more.
I am doing ok with the WW points. I ate all the weekly points, but not all of the exercise points as I was not sure if I was making 100% entries since some things weren't on the lists and I didn't always have the calorie info. Funny, after I entered my weight today, the online system told me I had one less point to eat per day now.
I feel like this will take forever, as WW has me ending up between 7-9 stone as a final weight. *sigh*
Hopefully next week will be better.
I went to the gym twice, and took a long walk, and another long walk today. We walked down Byres road, through the Arboretum, and then back up along Great Western Road and then through campus and back home.
Some pics from today's walk:
[gallery]
I am doing ok with the WW points. I ate all the weekly points, but not all of the exercise points as I was not sure if I was making 100% entries since some things weren't on the lists and I didn't always have the calorie info. Funny, after I entered my weight today, the online system told me I had one less point to eat per day now.
I feel like this will take forever, as WW has me ending up between 7-9 stone as a final weight. *sigh*
Hopefully next week will be better.
I went to the gym twice, and took a long walk, and another long walk today. We walked down Byres road, through the Arboretum, and then back up along Great Western Road and then through campus and back home.
Some pics from today's walk:
[gallery]
17 January 2011
frustrating week
This weight loss thing is just not working out for me. I am trying. I am eating FAR less, walking around more. Yet, every day the scale goes up.
I know I shouldn't worry about the changes in one day but over a week......? It is just frustrating and stressful. And we are not talking tons of calories per day 1200-1600 on average which should be showing losses, small perhaps, but not a 6lb gain.
I hope this week is better than last.
This weight loss thing is just not working out for me. I am trying. I am eating FAR less, walking around more. Yet, every day the scale goes up.
I know I shouldn't worry about the changes in one day but over a week......? It is just frustrating and stressful. And we are not talking tons of calories per day 1200-1600 on average which should be showing losses, small perhaps, but not a 5lb gain.
I hope this week is better than last.
I know I shouldn't worry about the changes in one day but over a week......? It is just frustrating and stressful. And we are not talking tons of calories per day 1200-1600 on average which should be showing losses, small perhaps, but not a 6lb gain.
I hope this week is better than last.
This weight loss thing is just not working out for me. I am trying. I am eating FAR less, walking around more. Yet, every day the scale goes up.
I know I shouldn't worry about the changes in one day but over a week......? It is just frustrating and stressful. And we are not talking tons of calories per day 1200-1600 on average which should be showing losses, small perhaps, but not a 5lb gain.
I hope this week is better than last.
10 January 2011
Keep on keeping on
The scale is finally moving in the right direction, despite not the best of eating. I'm down to about 3 quid, so I've been eating what I have in the house, which isn't much I am afraid. Frozen pizza and whatnot. And yesterday I went to my first panto, and despite having a good meal before I left I was starving halfway through, and ended up eating a bag of chocolates. :( There were limited choices and I had to find something with no nuts.
I have been trying to replace one meal with a weight loss shake. Granted this is not the most healthy way, but it is reasonable for me since it is on hand, it keeps me from being too hungry in the mornings, and I don't find the taste awful. Once we get a blender I can make my own w/ fruit and yougurt.
I really hope that I can do this, b/c if I do get to see DT in London this summer, I want to look my best. I'm tired of hating what I see in the mirror. I had Stephanie take "before" pics for me. I was disgusted. I can't believe I let myself get so unhealthy.
I'm also worried about my shoulder and my foot. I don't want to have any setbacks as I have started walking more but my foot really hurts. It appears it is the metatarsal bone on my right foot that is hurting. I hope it isn't anything serious. If I could wear trainers every day I would, but with the icy/wet/snowy weather I need to wear wellies which don't have great support. Hopefully when I get my money I can set some sort of additional support for them.
Classes begin again tomorrow so I should be reading for that....
I have been trying to replace one meal with a weight loss shake. Granted this is not the most healthy way, but it is reasonable for me since it is on hand, it keeps me from being too hungry in the mornings, and I don't find the taste awful. Once we get a blender I can make my own w/ fruit and yougurt.
I really hope that I can do this, b/c if I do get to see DT in London this summer, I want to look my best. I'm tired of hating what I see in the mirror. I had Stephanie take "before" pics for me. I was disgusted. I can't believe I let myself get so unhealthy.
I'm also worried about my shoulder and my foot. I don't want to have any setbacks as I have started walking more but my foot really hurts. It appears it is the metatarsal bone on my right foot that is hurting. I hope it isn't anything serious. If I could wear trainers every day I would, but with the icy/wet/snowy weather I need to wear wellies which don't have great support. Hopefully when I get my money I can set some sort of additional support for them.
Classes begin again tomorrow so I should be reading for that....
21 December 2010
Sweaty
No, the title doesn't mean I've returned to the gym quite yet. But it is a concern I have right now. Whenever I go out, I get ridiculously sweaty. It is winter here in Scotland, and it is cold- generally at or below freezing and I am dressed in my winter coat and hat and scarf and gloves. And when I am outside I'm ok, but then get me into the subway area or a store even for a few minutes and I am drenched. My hair at the nape of my neck, is sopping- like I just had a shower. It is so gross. I have never been sweaty like this unless I am working out. I never had this issue in winter's before and I grew up in Boston, so cold weather isn't something new to me.
What's wrong with me?
So- the gym. The gym is a mile from my house. Now while I wouldn't mind normally to walk to the gym if it were nice out, this means it will take 20+ mins to walk there and back home. Not to mention the time to workout, etc. And maybe I am being lazy, but if I want to workout, I just want to go and then get back and not have it take all this extra time. I'm used to driving...... and here that isn't an option and the subway gets me no closer to where I am going. Yes, I know I am being lazy. But also when the sidewalks are icy and everything it takes longer to get there and I'm always afraid of falling.
It will also be the first time back at a gym since my surgery, and I guess I am scared, kind of. Not sure how they will hold up.... and all.
But I suppose if I want to better myself it's time to shit or get off the pot, eh?
What's wrong with me?
So- the gym. The gym is a mile from my house. Now while I wouldn't mind normally to walk to the gym if it were nice out, this means it will take 20+ mins to walk there and back home. Not to mention the time to workout, etc. And maybe I am being lazy, but if I want to workout, I just want to go and then get back and not have it take all this extra time. I'm used to driving...... and here that isn't an option and the subway gets me no closer to where I am going. Yes, I know I am being lazy. But also when the sidewalks are icy and everything it takes longer to get there and I'm always afraid of falling.
It will also be the first time back at a gym since my surgery, and I guess I am scared, kind of. Not sure how they will hold up.... and all.
But I suppose if I want to better myself it's time to shit or get off the pot, eh?
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