Last Workout of the Year

Half hour workout of the day:

5 minutes warm-up/stretch

10 squats

10 push-ups

10 lunges

10 asst pull-ups

10 1-2 punch sit-ups

10 shoulder presses (18lbs)

10 burpee

30-45 second jog (I run up and down my driveway)

REPEAT 4 more times

Cool down 

Sciatic still tight but feeling better. Definately elliptical for me next week.

Happy New Years!!!

Glute Smashes

Last week I took it easy, and took the week off from running. I still did an upper, lower body workout and a combo workout. My sciatic has still been bugging me a bit. I also did some online research and may actually have something called Piriformis Syndrome which can affect your sciatic nerve. I read some stretches to help and started smashing my butt with a massage ball about 3 times a day. It's been working pretty well. And it's been feeling better. 

I started going back to my gym this week and using the elliptical. It's a godsend, and I don't feel any bit of pain doing it. I went Saturday and Monday doing a 35 minute workout on it. I'll probably go again New Year's Day. I'm going to take next week off from running as well. Not the best time of year to go back to the gym. All the new year's resolutions folks pour into the gym. Oh well.

Oh yes! The holidays! Everything went well. We did the 7 fishes on Christmas Eve and went to my parents on Christmas. Victor was great. Wasn't too fussy and managed to keep himself happy. He turned 6 months on 12/20. Time is flying by!!

Happy holidays!!

My Top Albums of 2014

I didn't get to listen to as much new music as I wanted to this year, but I still listened to a decent amount. A lot of new stuff I would listen on satellite radio in the car while sitting it traffic, going to work. And last time I worked was mid-May. Anyways, here goes:

18) T-55's: Power Up EP

17) Deers: Demo - Single

16) Broken Bells: After the Disco

15) The Faint: Doom Abuse

14) Julian Casablancas and the Voidz: Tyranny

13) Punch: They Don't Have to Believe

12)Converge: All We Love We Leave Behind

11) Code Orange Kids: I Am King

10) Cerebral Ballzy: Jaded & Faded

9) Morning Glory: War Psalms

8) Interpol: El Pintor

7) Holly Golightly: All Her Fault

6) OFF!: Wasted Years

5) Cloud Nothings: Here and Nowhere Else

4) The Orwells: Disgraceland

3) Lawrence Arms: Metropole

2) Jack White: Lazaretto

1) Sia: 1000 Forms of Fear

Love Sia! Great album! I got to see her in 2012 at a small venue in Philly. She puts on a great show and was actually showing her face while performing. She's crazy talented, has an awesome voice, writes amazing lyrics, and seems to be pretty silly/nutty. The first time I saw an interview with her, I thought she was slightly crazy and in a cutsie type of way. Kind of reminded me when I first heard Tori Amos in an interview. Except less insane. And I mean that in the most respect. Love Tori's early stuff!

Jack White's album was real good this year as well. I would LOVE to see Jack live but apparently he dislikes Philly. The rumor is he was harassed or booed by the crowd. Anyways, great album, rocked it a lot this year.

Hoping for some more great music next year. Hopefully I'll be able to listen to a little more!

Enjoying the Weather

Not that it's sunny and a balmy upper 80s sorta week, but temps in the mid 40s aren't too bad. And even better, no rain/snow! I took advantage on Sunday and went for a 6.25 mile trail run. My sciatic acted up a little on my last mile or so, honestly nothing worry some. Just going to only run twice this week to give it a break, and see how it feels.

Today I did upper body. Here goes:

5 minute warm-up

1) bench lawnmowers: a)10/20 lbs b)10/25 c)10/30 d)8/35

2) bench press a)6/55 b)5/65 c)5/70 d)3/75 e)5/65

3) dips: 3 sets of 20

4) shrug/clean & jerk: a)12/12 b)12/12 c)12/12

5) standing weighted side abs: a)20/25 b)20/30 c)20/35

5 minutes ab work

Light 1 mile jog

Cool down/stretch

Playlist: Converage

Sciatic still not 100%. It's not painful, just feels like it needs a good stretch.

Training For the New Year

Last Sunday I decided to challenge myself and signed up for my first 1/2 marathon at the end of March next year. It's called the "Love Run" and it starts at the Art Museum in Philly. I'm excited! The longest run I did was a 15K which is a little over 9 miles. It was tough cause it was half trail/half road on some crazy ass hills. But I made it through in about an hour and 40 minutes. And that was about 2 years ago. So I have to get some training in!

Here's my last couple workouts:

Saturday: Nice cold run at Valley Forge park. Ran a little over 5 miles in 43:45. 

Monday: Got 4.3 miles in before the nor'easter blew through the area. Actually wasn't bad at all.

Tuesday: Gym day. I haven't went to the gym in over 2 months.

1/4 mile warm-up

Asst pull-ups

Dips

Seated row (70, 80, 80)

Tricep pull-down (35, 35, 35)

Lat pull-down (50, 60, 55)

Bench row (50, 60, 60)

Ab work

1 mile on the elliptical

Cool down 

Did 3 sets of 10 reps.

Today: A run in the cold and wind. Did 4.25 miles in a little over 36 minutes.

Gotta get those miles in!

Burn Off the Bird 5K and More

My ankle held up fine and gave my no problems on Saturday for the 5K. It was pretty cold out that morning and luckily no wind. I ran it in 25:39, which is a little slow. But then realized by my runkeeper ap that the race was actually 3.25 miles instead of 3.1. So I was a little happier with my time. My splits were 7:54, 7:27, 8:37. I can believe how fast I ran that second mile. Nuts. The last mile killed me. Almost all up hill. Had fun though. First time I didn't medal in the race. I was probably 30 seconds off of placing. There's always next year!!

Sunday I gave my legs a rest and met a friend for coffee in the morning. Later, Zim and I took Victor to the park for a walk. Then I more or less just watched football and drank some beer.

Monday was over 60 degrees out. On December 1st. Wow. I took advantage, put on some shorts and ran on the trail. I ran 4 and a 1/4. Felt good. I was averaging right around 8 minutes on each mile.

Today. The temperate went from 60 degrees to about 32. I even saw a little snow in the late morning. I did some upper body work. Here goes:

5 minute warm-up jog and stretch

Bench press: 1)6 reps at 55lb 2)5/65 3)5/70 4)3/75 5)2/80

Bench lawnmowers: 1)10/21 2)10/25 3)10/30 4)10/35

Chest press: 1)10/18 2)10/21 3)10/21 4)10/21

Dips: 4 sets of 20

2 minute plank 

5 minutes of ab work

1 mile jog

Cool down 

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving! It's pretty around here today. We got about 2 inches of snow yesterday from the Nor-Easter that passed through. I celebrated this late morning by going for a 2 and 1/2 mile test run for my ankle. Last Thursday I was just starting my mile run after a legs workout and rolled my ankle. I was only about a tenth of a mile in when I rolled it. I immediately stopped and walked back home. I did the whole rest - ice - compress - elevate for the remainder of the day. It never bruised or swelled up, so I really lucked out. It hurt like a bitch that night and the next morning, and miraculously felt back to normal by the next night. So I shut down running for a whole week till today. It went well! I wanted to see how it felt before running a Turkey Trot 5K on Saturday. So far, so good.

Here's the rest of my workouts this week:

Monday:

Warm-up

Bench press: 7 reps at 50lbs, 6/60, 5/65, 3/75, 2/80

Lawnmowers: 10/25, 10/30, 10/35, 8/35

Dumbbell chest press: 10/18, 10/21, 10/21, 8/21

Dips: 20, 20, 20, 20

2 minute plank 

Ab work

Cool down 

Wednesday: 7 sets of 10

Warm-up

Push-ups

Squats

Pull-ups

Lunges

Dips

Crunches

Burpees

Cool down

Cold Snap

Damn it's cold!!! Glad I don't live in upstate New York. Some parts got around 5 feet of snow. Way to early for it. It's supposed to be cold all week until Sunday when it's forecasted to be around 60. Anyways here's my last few workouts:

Saturday: Empty stomach cardio. I did a 7:30am run in the cold at Valley Forge. I did the 5 mile loop in exactly 43 minutes. 

Monday: Upper body work

5 minute warm-up

Chest press: a)8 reps at 45lb b)6/55 c)6/60 d)6/65 e)3/75

Lawnmowers: a)10/21 b)10/30 c)8/30

Dips: a)20 b)20 c)20 d)20

Shrug&Clean and jerk: a)12/12 b)12/12 c)12/12

Curls: a)10/18 b)10/18 c)10/18

Ab work

Tuesday: 20 min workout of the day

5 minute warm-up

10 push-ups

10 squats

10 pull-ups

10 lunges

10 dips

10 crunches 

10 burpees

REPEAT for 5 rounds

Zombie Run

I did my second race on November 1st. I thought it was a traditional 5K, but it ended up only being 2.2 miles. I ended getting 2nd female overall and won a gift basket. Not too shabby. Zim did the "zombie" form of the race and survived for the first time. The zombies chase you and try to take the three flags off a runner's "life belt". It was fun and brought a decent crowd out. Too bad it was more or less pouring all morning. They had a nice set-up for the zombie make-up booths, along with some horror themed vendors. I'll most likely run it again next year.

Speaking of dress-up Victor was dressed again as Batman aka Batbaby. We walked with him the week prior dressed as Batman in a Halloween parade. He ended up winning 2nd place in his age group for his costume. On Halloween he attempted to help me hand out candy, but only lasted for two trick r treaters before falling asleep. I'm excited to actually get to take him out next Halloween.

I've been still getting in some runs and some strength training in as well. Saturday I ran the 5 mile loop around Valley Forge Park. It's not an easy run, but I surprised myself, running it a little over 42 minutes. It was beautiful out too. I want to start getting one longer run on the weekend.

I've changed up my strength training a bit. I needed something new. Here's today's:

5 minute warm-up

Lawnmowers: 12 reps/21lbs of 5 sets

Bench chest press: 8 reps/45lb, 8/55lb, 8/60lb, 6/65lb

Dips: 20 reps of 4 sets

Shrugs/Clean & Jerk: 12 reps/12lbs of 3 sets

Cohen Curls: 10 reps/15lb of 4 sets

5-7 minutes of ab work

Finish with a 1 mile run (7:38)

Cool down

DONE

25 Minute Friday Workout

Yesterday I braved the rain and ran 3.65 miles in my neighborhood. I already did my upper and lower body workouts this week, so I did a quick combo workout. Here goes:

1/4 mile warm-up jog

10 squats

10 push-ups

10 crunches (any kind)

10 pull-ups

10 dips

10 side crunches (any kind)

10 burpees

Run 50 yards.

REPEAT until you hit 20 minutes.

I got 5 rounds in.

Tomorrow it's supposed to be pretty nice out. I'm hoping to get in a 4+ mile run in.

Playlist: Code Orange Kids

Post 5 K

Sooo...I finally ran my first 5K of the year two weekends ago. Unfortunately it was raining that morning so a bunch of people didn't make the race. My mother-in-law and I braved the rain and ran anyways. I ended up being 6th overall, running it in 25:52. I was more than happy with my time, especially in the rain with wet leaves in the street. My mother-in-law won 1st in her age group which was awesome. Altogether it was a good time for a really good cause.

Lately my workouts have went mostly like this:

Monday: Upper body strength training

Tuesday: 3-4 mile run

Wednesday: Lower body strength training

Thursday: 3-4 mile run

Friday: Total body workout

Saturday: 4-5 mile run

I have my next 5K next weekend. It's a Zombie themed run. I'm doing the course where zombies DON'T chase you. Zim is doing the one where zombies do chase you and take your "life flags". It's going to be pretty big race. I believe they're expecting over 500 people. Should be fun. 

Past Few Workouts

I've been getting workouts in after Zim gets home from work. He works 5am to 12 or 1, so it works out pretty good for us both to get a run or some lifting in. Vic's a little too young to run with him in the stroller, but I think he'll be good soon. I like our walks anyways. 

Here we go:

Thursday: 3.16 mile run in 26:05. 1st mile was in 7:56, 2nd 8:25, 3rd 8:23. 

Friday: workout of the day

Weighted squats: 6 reps at 45lb, 6/55, 6/60, 6/60

Push-ups: 12, 10, 8, 6

Weighted lunges: 12 reps at 15lb, 10/15, 8/15, 6/15

Stability ball hamstring raise: 12, 10, 8, 6

Calf raises: 15 reps at 15lbs, 15/15, 15/15, 15/15

Crunches: 15, 15, 15, 15

Finish with 30 burpees

Saturday: 3 and 1/2 mile run around 32 minutes. My runkeeper ap crapped out. It was also raining pretty good for the first 10 minutes.

Sunday: off day. Zim and I went to the Rams v Eagles game. Good times and an Eagles win!

Monday:

Lawnmowers (20lbs)

In & out hammers

Tricep kickflip

Push-up/pull-ups

Shoulder press

Static arm curls

Medicine ball overhead press

Push-up/pull-ups

Bent over row

Chest press (18lbs)

Dips (20)

Push-up/pull-ups

Shoulder shrug (30lb)

Cohen curl

Tricep kickback

Push-up/pull-ups

Back fly

Curl/hammers

Lie down tricep press

Push-up/pull-up

REPEAT

5 minutes of ab work

Finish with a 1 mile fast run (8:06)

Reps: 1st/10, 2nd/8

Weight: 15lbs

Push-ups/pull-ups: 1st/5, 2nd/3

Tuesday: 3 and 1/2 miles at 32 minutes 

Wednesday:

1/4 mile jog warm-up

Weighted squats: 6/45lb, 6/55, 6/60, 6/75

Weighted lunges: 12/15lbs, 10/18lbs, 8/18, 6/18

Rolling stability ball hamstring: 12, 10, 8, 6

Weighted calf raises: 15/60lb, 15/70, 15/80, 15/80

Plank: 4 reps at 1 minute

Burpees: 4 reps of 5

5 minutes of ab work

Finish with 3/4 mile jog

Gearing Up For A 5K

My times have gotten better in the past couple weeks, so I decided to sign up for my first 5K since September 2013. I'm not expecting much, just hoping to finish under 29 minutes. The course is a bit hilly as well. Just gonna try my best and have some fun. Also the 5K is for a really good cause, childhood cancer research. I raised a few hundred bucks in donations for running in it. The race is on Saturday morning and literally 3 or 4 miles away from my house. Should be a good time! 

September Over Already??

This month flew by. You wouldn't even know that summer ended around here. It's still in the mid 70s. Last Saturday it was 82. I'm looking forward to the jeans and a hoody weather though. It should be here in a week or so.

Workouts! I've been getting about 5 days a week in, which is great! I'm getting some more ab work in too. I'm getting out running about twice a week. I just need to hone my diet a little better. Damn football season and delicious Oktoberfest beers! 

Off to bed!

REALLY QUICK

Did a 4 mile run on Sunday. My first mile I ran at 8:08. Wooo! The 2nd was 8:42, 3rd 8:37, and mile 4 was 9. Extremely happy with my time. I ran in the morning, which is my favorite time to run. Monday was an upper body day followed by a mile run. Ran it in 8:17. Gettin' my groove back! 

Start of the Week

I started my Monday with upper body strength training in the garage. The weather's pretty nice out. Lower 80s/upper 70s all week. Sure beats last week's awful humidity. Nice to open up the garage bay and enjoy the weather. Here's the routine:

5 minute warm-up

Swimmer press

In & out bicep curls

Overhead medicine ball press (10lbs)

Shoulder press

Hammers

Tricep kickbacks

5 push-ups

5 pull-ups

Lawnmowers (20lb)

Lie down bench press

Tricep flip kickback 

Bent over row

Curl/hammer

Dips (20)

5 push-ups

5 pull-ups

REPEAT

5 minutes of light ab work

Finish with a fast paced 1 mile run - 8:29

Reps: 10,8 Weight: 15lbs, 12 on tricep exercises.

Playlist: Touché Amouré

Altogether it took me about 45 minutes. Felt good.

Last weekend I got in two workouts. Friday I got in 4 mile trail run. It was hot and humid out, but I've run in much worse. My first 3 miles I averaged a pace at 9:30, my last mile was a little under 10 minutes. I'm happy with that. I'm trying to get one longer endurance run a week. Saturday was a gym day for a total body workout. Here it is:

1/4 mile warm-up jog

Sit down rowing machine (70, 75, 75)

Assisted dips

Seated leg press (140, 155, 175)

Assisted pull-ups

Tricep pull-down (30 x 3)

Calf raise (160, 180, 200)

Seated lat pull-down (50 x 3)

Push-ups

Body squats

15 minutes interval training on the elliptical. 

Playlist: Hope Conspiracy

September Already?!

Time is flying by!! I'm getting my workouts in regularly nowadays. I'm up to five days a week for the past 2 weeks. I'm getting in both strength training and runs. I'm trying to get 2-3 runs in. But, I take what I can get. I ran my fastest mile on Tuesday at 8 minutes 30 seconds. I'm pretty happy with the time coz it was 90+ degrees out and quite humid. I'm also getting 2 sessions of light/moderate ab work in. I've also increased my dumbbell weight to 15lbs. So workout wise, things are going well! Hoping to get a 3 mile run in tomorrow afternoon.

Victor's doing great! He's a BIG guy weighing in almost 15lbs at his 2 month doctor's visit. He was baptized last Sunday and was really good. He didn't cry when the pastor poured the water on his head. He did fart and poop during the sermon though. He's been sleeping through the night which is awesome! He falls asleep by 8:30pm and doesn't wake up till about 4-5 in the morning. He eats then falls back asleep till after 7. I can't complain. He's still not totally holding his head up, but I think he'll be there in the next couple weeks. He's really vocal cooing and hooing with Zim and I. He'll be 11 weeks tomorrow. 

Zim and I have been getting out thanks to my mother-in-law. We saw the band, Modern Life Is War, at the 1st Unitarian Church in Philly last Friday night. Great show! MLIW killed it! We found a cute little bar next door, strangely enough called Victor's Pub. I also got to go to The Colonial Theater's Italian SplatterFest on Saturday. They run a marathon of 5-6 Italian horror flicks all night. I got to see two of the movies, Fulci's "The Beyond" and Argento's "Phenomenom". Really happy I got to go. I've been going to this event since the first SplatterFest. Always a good time!

Mid Week Workouts

Here's a quick rundown:

Wednesday: A lower body workout while watching the baby monitor. 

5 minute warm-up

Body Squats

Weighted lunges (12lbs)

Calf raises (25lbs)

Stability ball hamstring lift

Calf squat

REPEAT TWICE

Reps: 10, 8, 6

Cool down 

Later that night I did 20 minutes on the elliptical when I went to the boxing gym to help out. I try to get it in while I can. Plus it was kinda slow with not a lot of kids at the gym. There was some sparring to watch though.

Thursday: Upper body gym day

1/4 mile jog warm-up

Sit down row (70 x 3)

Dips 

REPEAT x 2

Chest press (40,40,35)

Upward shoulder press (40,40,35)

REPEAT x 2

Lat pull-down (50 x 3)

Row (50 x 3)

REPEAT x 2

Asst. pull-up 

Tricep pull-down (25,25)

REPEAT

Crunches 

Finish with 10 minutes on the elliptical

Cool down

DONE!

Getting Back Into the Swing

So far, so good! My rib/shoulder injury is feeling much, much better and my core feels good as well. Here's the last few workouts:

Thursday: Lower body 

5 minute warm-up 

Squats

Weight lunges

Weighted calf raise

Stability ball hamstrings

Calf squats

30 second plank 

REPEAT  2 more times 

Finish with a mile jog and light crunches.

Reps: 10,8,and 5

Weight: 12 lbs - lunges; 25 lb ea - calf raises.

Friday: total body gym day

1/4 mile warm-up jog/stretch

Sit down row (70, 70, 80)

Tricep pulldown (30, 20, 25)

* wow the tricep machine really works your core!

REPEAT x 2

Seated chest press (50, 40,40)

Lat pull-down (50,40, 45)

REPEAT x 2

Shoulder press (12.5)

Curl/hammers (12.5)

REPEAT x 2

Finish with 20 minutes on the elliptical

Monday: upper body

5 minute warm-up

Upright row

In & out curls

Tricep kickback

Push-ups

Shoulder press

In&out curls

Dips (12)

Knees push-ups

Lawnmowers

Curl/hammers

Tricep flip kick

Push-ups

Chest press

Static arm curl

Overhead medicine ball press

Knees push-ups

REPEAT

cool down

Later in the evening I ran. My goal was to try to be under a 10 minute mile. I ended up running at a 9:17 pace for 2.4 miles. I was happy with that!

Tomorrow is a recovery day. I'll do my walk with Victor in the morning. That usually averages around 2 miles. And that's about it. I want to give everything a chance to rest. Especially my core. Feels good down there, but also feels like I've used those muscles. 

Getting Back

After taking it easy last week cause my shoulder/ribs began to ache, Sunday I started back on my workouts. It's actually my serattus anterior muscle. I have problems with it at least once a year. Anyways here's the workouts:

Sunday: Back to the gym! I did a 1/2 hour on the elliptical and ended with some very light ab work. I just wanted to see how out of shape my abs were. My upper abs were weak but felt okay. The lower abs, wow, like back to square one there. They felt awkward as well. And hell, I'm not too surprised there. As I said, I took it very, very light. 

Monday: Back to the garage!!

5 minute warm-up

Shoulder press

Hammers

Tricep kickback

Knees push-ups

Upright row

Curls

Medicine ball overhead press (10lbs)

Knees push-ups

Lawnmowers 

Curls/hammers

Dips

Knees push-ups

Shoulder shrug

Chest press

Overhead tricep

Knees push-ups

REPEAT

Finish with a mile jog.

Reps: 8,6 Weight: 12lbs Push-ups: 2 (only on the 1st round)

I took it easy on my left arm on some moves. I don't want to aggravate my injury further.

Playlist: Modern Life is War

FINALLY

Gravel. Check. 

Dirt. Check. 

Trail shoes. Check. 

iPod. Check.

Yes!!!!

I went for my first run today in months. Oh man, was it great. I was cleared by my doc's on Thursday, but told to keep it moderate. I was also told to avoid core work for another week or two. So I dusted off the trail shoes, left the baby with Zim, and hit the trail. It felt great. I felt slow though, but 6 weeks ago the doctors were cutting my abs apart. I ran 3.4 miles in a little over 36 minutes. It's just nice to be out running, listening to music, feeling good! 

Playlist: Converge

Tuesday Quickie

The weeks are flying by! Vic's almost 6 weeks and I get to find out if I'm cleared to start working out on Thursday from my doc's. My body isn't 100% but I feel pretty damn good. Believe me, I'm not ready for a 5 mile jog or an intense crunches routine. I am ready for a nice short jog or some moderate lifting. As for my walking, last week I walked every day with Victor and worked up to 2 miles in over a half hour. Monday, I walked 2.25 and Tuesday 2.05 miles. I did buy a new pair of Brooks Ravena running shoes on Sunday with a gift card and I am getting a little itchy in trying them out. See how it goes Thursday.

In other news, Vic's been sleeping pretty well throughout the night. Looking forward to ending that late night feeding! Gonna be a little while for that. The diaper rash has gotten SOO much better. He still has a tiny bit, but it's looking better every day. My cat, Asano, has been adjusting slowly, but surely. He's actually curled up next to me on the couch for the first time since Vic's been born. He has only slight interest in Victor. More scared/jealous of him than interested. Asano's 9 years old and a Bengal cat. He's more or less been an "only" child in our family, so it really makes me happy when he gets more comfortable around the baby. 

Sunday Walks

Yuppers, I'm still walking! Last week I walked about 5 times and averaged up to a mile and a half in less than a half hour. Today I walked 1.8 miles for a full half hour with stinko. Beautiful day out as well. Vic actually seemed a bit interested in the beginning of our walk, then passed out a few minutes later. I'm going to try for 2 miles by the end of the week, which I know is totally do-able. Victor's been struggling with some bad diaper rash, so I don't like being out super long with him. I can't wait till the rash clears up. He's been on a prescription cream, which has made it better, but it still really bugs him. I'm just trying to keep him dry and even diaper-less for at least an hour a day to clear it up. Man, does that get messy. It seems like his digestive system is getting a little more regular, so hopefully his poops calm down. That's my story!

These Boots Are Made for Walkin'...

I'm closing in on Victor's first month this week. It FLEW by! And it was good at times, and then could be downright awful. But we all made it through in one piece thus far! I've been told the first three months can by pretty rough, and I totally understand why. It's tough not having that workout outlet when the frustration creeps in. But I'm only 2-4 weeks away from that. Can't WAIT to hit that heavy bag sometimes!! I am getting out and walking in the morning with the little stinker. That's helped a TON. I think both of us look forward to our walking time. I walk for about 20-25 minutes which equals to a mile/a mile and a quarter. I've been trying to walk about 5 times a week or more. I can't wait to walk a little longer with him, but it's baby steps for both of us. Plus it's been so damn hot and humid out. (Hence the morning walks) I am looking forward to the nice fall weather in the next few months. It luckily hasn't been that bad of a summer yet. We'll see what August has in store.

Getting Back Into the Routine

The last couple weeks have been a blur of poopy diapers, onesies, formula, doctors, tears, joys, the whole nine yards. Zim and I are trying to adjust the best that we can to a whole new life that now includes baby Victor. Some days are great, others, not so great. Our little man has been struggling recently with some bad diaper rash and gas, but nothing all that bad. I honestly can't complain all that much. I've had a couple sleepless nights, and I'm sure they'll be more to come. He's lucky he's cute!!

As for working out, I'm not cleared to do anything until the end of July. I was told 6-8 weeks to start exercising after a C-Section. I'm getting enough of a workout just trying to keep up with Victor and the day to day housework. I'm feeling really good and getting around rather well, so I am looking forward to getting back into a workout routine. I'm in no rush though. I'd go out for walks with the baby but it's so damn hot and humid out! Not the healthiest weather for a newborn. But we'll be out walking soon enough!! I already lost a good chunk of my weight and I'm about 10-12 pounds away from my pre-pregnancy weight. I was REALLY happy about that. Zim and I are trying to get at least three "healthy" dinners or more per week, which helps. The end of July will be here before I know it!! Now to try to sneak in a quick nap!

Cheers!!

Victor Vincent

My son, Victor Vincent Zimmerman was born Friday 6/20 at 10:40am. He was a big guy weighing in at 10 pounds 1 ounce and is 21 and 1/2 inches long. I'm doing good, getting around pretty good, but still recovering from the C-.Section. More posts to come.

Final June Workout

I'm guessing today was my last workout of the month. Kinda sad, but ultimately excited. I found out from my doc's yesterday that the baby boy has my sense of direction and won't position himself head down. He's been laying transverse and if I suddenly went into labor, I would need an emergency C-Section to get him out. The doc is also worried that the umbilical cord might choke him or cut off his oxygen by the way he's laying if I were to go into labor as well. I asked what was the safest thing to do, and a C-Section is scheduled for this Friday. For some miraculous reason he assumes the position and they find him head down, they'll call off the surgery. I highly doubt that will happen, and in my head, I'm set to have this baby in two days.

Of course I had my hopes on a natural childbirth, but this is the safest way. Recovery time is going to be longer and I know I'll be limited in what I can do in the first few weeks, but as they say, it is what it is. It's a relief there's a date set now, and and can prepared myself for it. It's all worth it for the new baby boy!!

So yesterday I started getting affairs in order. Getting the last of cleaning done, a grocery store big restock, and of course buying a 6 pack of BEER!!! Looking forward to drinking one hopefully next week! It will go well with my strawberry Vicodin smoothies I'll be making for the abdominal pain. I'm obviously kidding. Not about the beer though. And at least I'll have a bunch of World Cup matches to watch while I'm taking care of the baby. 

Today, I said what the hell, let's get in one last workout in. Here goes:

Shoulder press

Curls

Lunges

REPEAT

In & out shoulder flys

Tricep kickback

Calf raises (40lbs)

REPEAT

In & out hammers

Body squats

Dips

Knees push-ups

REPEAT

1 round shadow boxing, 1 round heavy bag, 2 minutes running in place.

Reps: 10, 8 Weights: 15 lb

Playlist: Dirty Kid Discount

Getting Closer

Week 39. The end is near! Here's the workouts earlier this week.

Sunday:

5 minute warm-up

Upright row

In & out curls

Dips (20, 10)

Knees push-ups

Shoulder flys

Curl/hammers

Medicine ball triceps press (10 lbs)

Push-ups

Lawnmowers

Static Arm Curl

Tricep kickback

Push-ups

Shoulder press

In & out hammers

Tricep band press

Push-ups

REPEAT

Finish w/ a 1 mile jog (13:45).

Reps: 10, 8 Weights: 15lbs Push-ups: On knees 2, 2

Playlist: The Germs

Monday:

5 minute warm-up

Tip toe lunges

Elbow to knee

Calf squats

Side kicks

Step back lunges

Power knee

Calf raise (40lbs)

Side lunges

Lunges

Front kicks

Body squats

Back kicks

Plank

REPEAT

Finish w/ 1 round shadow boxing, 1 round heavy bag, 1 minute running in place

Reps: 10, 8 Plank: 30 sec, 20 sec 

Mid Week Workout

Since it's been pretty rainy this week, I made it to the gym for a workout. It was pretty dead when I got there, so I decided to weight train instead of just doing the elliptical. I'm hoping today was my last time lifting at the gym before the boy makes his appearance. It was in the back of my head about how embarrassing it would be if my water broke while on the chest press machine or something. I guess I'd grab someone in my rush out to be like, "Hey, umm, you probably wanna clean that machine up". But it obviously didn't happen. Anyways, here the workout:

1/4 mile jog warm-up/stretch

Lat pull-down machine (50,50)

Seated row (50,50)

REPEAT

Leg flexion machine (80,90)

Chest press machine (40,40)

Seated incline machine (40,40)

REPEAT

Leg extension machine (80,90)

Standing pull-down tricep machine (30,30)

Body squats

Knees push-ups

Lunges

REPEAT

Finish w/ 10 minutes on the elliptical (.75 miles)

Reps: 10, 8

Playlist: Jack White

Nice Rainy Tuesday

A quickie summary of my workouts:

Saturday: Zim, his mom, and our friend Dell did a 5K in town. I didn't participate, I did get in about a 20 minute walk as I waited for them to cross the finish line. It was a beautiful day out, so what the hell. It was called "Dog Jog" and people were encouraged to run with their pets. I don't think my kitty would have liked being on a leash, so Zim ran alone. I have tried walking my cat, but he's a little Houdini when it comes in escaping a harness. He slips it every time I've tried. Luckily we've never made it out of the house. The whole race had a nice setup and there were TONS of pets up for adoption. I would definately run it next year.

Sunday:

I got an early start to my workout week and decided to do my Monday arms workout. 

5 minute warm-up

Upright row

Static arm curls

Dips (20,10)

Knees push-ups

Shoulder flys

Curl/hammers

Medicine tricep press

Push-ups

Lawnmowers

In & out curls

Tricep kickback

Push-ups

Shoulder press

In & out hammers

Tricep band press

Push-ups

Finish with a 1 mile jog - (around 13:45)

Reps: 10, 8 Weights: 15 lbs Push-ups: On knees 2,2

Playlist: The Holy Mess

I skipped Monday coz I had an ultrasound in the morning. Everything looked good! He was transverse in my uterus, so he wasn't looking for the way out yet. I hope he does soon!

Tuesday:

5 minute warm-up

Tip toe lunges

Elbow to knee

Calf squats

Power knee

Step back lunges

Side kicks

Calf raises (40lbs)

Front kicks

Lunges

Back kicks

Body squats

Side lunges

Plank

1 round shadow boxing, 1 round heavy bag, 1 minute run in place

Reps: 10, 8 Planks: 30 sec, 20 sec

Playlist: Cro-Mags

End of Week Wrap Up

This week has flown by! I got a bunch of little odds and ends stuff finished. I finished baby's laundry, got my hair cut, cleaned up the house, etc. I even made it to the boxing gym twice to help out and talk to the newspapers. It's our program's 15th anniversary, so a couple of reporters came down to interview some boxers and the coaches. It was nice. I've been making to the boxing gym regularly once a week since about March. I used to go twice a week, but I was worried about germs and getting sick. We always keep up with the cleaning, but it's hard to avoid germs when you'd in close quarters putting on gloves and greasing a kid up who's about to spar. Anyways, it was nice hanging out with "the boys" a little more this week. 

I went to the doc's on Tuesday and everything went well. I was told the baby has dropped and is assuming the position. She also said that she wouldn't be surprised if the baby went early. I'm still only about 2 and 1/2 weeks away. I hope she's correct though! A Friday the 13th baby would be really cool! Especially that I've been watching cheesy '80s horror flicks every night for the past few weeks. Fingers crossed!

Here's the mid week workouts:

Tuesday:

5 minute warm-up

Tip toe lunges

Elbow to knee

Calf squats

Side kicks

Step back lunges

Power knee 

Lunges

Side lunges

Body squats

Front kicks

Calf raises

Back kicks

Planks

REPEAT

1 round shadow boxing, 1 round heavy bag, 1 minute run in place

Cool down/Stretch

Reps: 10, 8 Planks: 30 sec, 20 sec

Playlist: The Orwells

Wednesday: A cardio day. I just went to the gym and did 30 minutes on the elliptical for about 2.75 miles. It was a nice paced workout.

Friday:

1/4 mile warm-up jog

Shoulder press

Lunges

In & out hammers

REPEAT

Bent over rows

Body squats

Dips

REPEAT

Lawnmowers

Calf raises (40lbs)

Curl/hammers

REPEAT

In & out shoulder flys (10lbs)

Side lunges

Knees push-ups

REPEAT

Finish with a 3/4 mile/10 minute jog

Stretch

Reps: 10, 8 Weights: 15lbs

Playlist : The Germs

June Already!

Wow, these past 6 months have FLOWN by. I still feel like I've been pregnant for like 2 years straight. But D-Day is in sight and hopefully 3 weeks away. And going early is a-okay for me. I'm excited to meet the little man, get used to a whole new way of life, and get my body back. And damn, I miss coffee! Coffee with caffeine, not the decaf crap I've been drinking. 

I'm still getting my normal 4 workouts done per week. I did decide Saturday to save my back and knees and hang up the running shoes for my half hour runs. I did about 32 minutes on the elliptical for 2.85 miles. My body definately thanked me later. The elliptical isn't as fun as an outside jog, but it's going to have to do for a little while. My husband was happy about the choice as well. I think he wanted me to give up the running a month ago, but he's would never tell me not to. 

Monday:

5 minute warm-up

Lawnmowers

Static arm curl

Dips

Knees push-ups

Upright rows

In & out biceps

Medicine ball tricep press

Push-ups

Shoulder flys

Curls/hammers

Tricep kickback

Push-ups

Shoulder press

In & out hammers

Tricep band press

Push-ups

Finish with a 1 mile jog.

Stretch

Reps: 10, 8 Weights: 15lbs Push-ups: on knees 2, 2

Playlist: Hank Williams III

I ran the mile in 13:45. It was slow and a bit tough. No side stitch though which was great. I felt pretty decent, but the last quarter mile was a little challenging. I may try a 10 minute jog later in the week. This might be my last week of straight jogging. At 37 weeks, I'm just more than happy that I got a mile in. 

Mid Week Workouts

Here's my last two workouts:

Tuesday:

5 minute warm-up

Tip toe lunges

Elbow to knee

Calf squats

Side kicks

Step back lunges

Power knee 

Lunges

Front kicks

Calf raises (40lbs)

Side lunges

Body squats

Back kicks

Plank

REPEAT

Finish with 1 round shadow boxing, 1 round heavy bag, 1 minute running in place

Stretch

Reps: 10, 8 Planks: 30 sec, 20 sec

Playlist: Morning Glory

Thursday:

I did a at home total body. My contractor was over redoing my deck, so no gym trip for me. 

1/4 + mile warm-up jog

Shoulder press

Curl/hammers

Calf raise (40lb)

REPEAT

Upright row

Dips (10,10)

Step back lunges

REPEAT

In & out arm flys (5lbs each)

In & out hammers

Lunges

REPEAT

Body squats

Curls

Knee push-ups

REPEAT

Finish with a 10 minute jog.

Reps: 10, 8 Weights: 15lb

Memorial Day Weekend

Happy Memorial Day!

My Memorial Day Weekend was pretty full! Friday afternoon I saw X-Men: Days of Future Past. I really liked it. I still think X-Men: First Class was better, but I really enjoyed this movie. I think my slight problem with the movie was there were too many characters jammed in it and the viewer did not truly get the emotional involvement that you got with the characters like in First Class. There's almost too much going on at times. That's what happens when you fit like 5 movies into the plot. My other problem is Mystique. Jennifer Lawrence, whom I like, is just not the best choice for the part. Mystique to me exudes sexuality, is dangerous, and is kind of a bitch. Lawerence is missing that and gives her character this air of innocence and lack of confidence. Plus the suit is kinda weird. Lawrence is also the hottest actress in Hollywood, so I get why they stayed with her. Anyways, with all that said, I absolutely LOVED Quicksilver! He was in the best part of the movie. Hugh Jackman as Wolverine is always great and pretty damn handsome! And of course Fassbender is awesome and works well with MacAvoy. Good stuff! I apologize for some nit picking complaints, but I did work at a Comic shop for 15 plus years.

Saturday, I visited both my grandmothers. My mom's mom is 90, my dad's is 86 I believe. Both grandmas are doing okay for their age. My mom's mom, has short term memory problems and doesn't get around the greatest, but she's 90. In my opinion, she's doing okay for 90. I wish she was in an assisted living facility instead of at my uncle's work. (Half of his dental office is a house where my grandmother occupies) My dad's mom does live in an assisted living building but recently had a mini stroke that has set her back a bit. She struggles with finding words and has a little trouble finishing thoughts and sentences. I was glad to spend some time with them both and hope they're around for a few more years.

Sunday, a friend of our gave us tickets to the Dodgers v Phillies game, so Zim and I went to our first Phillies game of the year. And guess what, we saw our second no hitter in that park! Nuts! It unfortunately wasn't the Phillies, but the Dodgers with Josh Beckett getting the no hitter.  I'm not a Josh Beckett fan by far. I honestly was hoping he'd blow it in the 9th. There's been two no hitters in Citizen's Bank Park, and Zim and I were at both. Roy Halliday in the playoff vs the Reds a few years ago and now yesterday. That's just odd. Later I saw a movie, Only Lovers Left Behind with my buddy Lou. It was decent. It was a slow moving modern day vampire movie. It had a whole different approach to vampires, making them more or less more humanized. Tilda Swindon and Tom Middleton both starred in it. It's worth a watch on cable.

Today...workout time. Here goes:

5 minute warm-up

Lawnmowers

Static arm curl

Dips (20, 10)

Knees push-ups

Seated shoulder fly 

Curl/hammer

Tricep kickback 

Push-ups

Shoulder press

In & out curls

Tricep medicine ball press (9lbs)

Push-ups

Upright row

In & out hammers

Band triceps

Push-ups

Finish was a 1 mile jog

Stretch

Reps: 10, 8 Weight: 15 lbs Push-ups: on knees 2, 2,

Playlist: H2O - Go

The jog was a little tough. It might be my last outdoor jog till this baby boy makes his appearance in less than 4 weeks. I MIGHT try one more outdoor run come Saturday if I'm feeling good. If not, I'll be on the elliptical.

Real Quick...

Quick rundown:

Tuesday:

5 min warm-up

Tip toe lunges

Elbow to knee

Calf squats 

Power knee

Calf raise (40lbs)

Side kicks

Lunges

Front kicks

Body squats

Back kicks

Step back lunges

Side lunges

Plank

Finished with 1 round shadow boxing, 1 round heavy bag, 1 minute run in place.

Reps: 10, 8 Plank: 30 sec, 20 sec

Thursday:

1/4 warm-up jog

Standing pull-down triceps (30,30)

Knees push-ups

REPEAT

Calf raise (140,160)

Seated chest press (40,40)

Seated incline shoulder press (40,40)

REPEAT

Leg extension (80,90)

Lat pull-down (50,50)

Seated row (50,50)

REPEAT

Body squats 

Lunges

REPEAT

Finished with 11 minutes on the elliptical. 

Reps: 10,8

Saturday: I got up at 6am for an early morning jog. Beautiful morning for it! Jogged 2 and a 1/4 in a half hour. Did stop and walk a 1/2 a mile in because of a side stitch, then felt better and continued my run. I averaged around a 13 minute mile.

Playlist: The Germs

Monday Morning Workout

Only 5 more weeks till D-Day, hopefully! I'm feeling good, but slowing down. My back will bug me by the early evening. But I guess that's what happen when you're carrying around 30 plus more pounds than usual. Yesterday was my baby shower. It was small and went really well. Pretty much just family and close friends. We got a bunch of stuff that we definately need! Now I just need to wash things and put them away. I'm loving the cute little boy outfits!  I've already finished the "Thank You" cards this morning so I'm ahead of the game.

 I also saw Godzilla this weekend. It was visually amazing and had a good storyline. We saw it in IMAX which is definately the way to see it! It took us two times to actually see the movie. Zim, his mom, and I went to see it opening day Friday, but the IMAX wouldn't work. We got refunded, but it was a big letdown. Zim was so excited to see it, and wasn't too happy. He's a big Godzilla and monster movie fan, so he couldn't wait to see it. Anyways we saw it Sunday night, and it was worth the wait. It had that old school monster movie flick feel, and Godzilla looked pretty awesome. Some of the characters were a little blah, but it didn't need to be a 1/2 hour longer to establish them. I dug it!

Anyways here's my last two workouts:

Saturday: Jogged the trail and did 2.4 miles in a little under a 1/2 hour. Felt pretty damn good on the trail and it was a beautiful day for it. My legs and back were spent after the run. Nothing painful, but sore. Luckily it only lasted the day. I just took it somewhat easy for the rest of the day and on Sunday. I did finally get to start my garden Saturday as well. 

Monday: 

5 minute warm-up

Upright row

Static arm curl

Tricep kick back

Knees push-ups

Back fly

Curl/hammer

Dips (20,10) 

push-ups

Lawnmowers

In & out bicep curls

Medicine ball tricep press (9 lbs)

Push-ups

Shoulder press

In & out hammers

Tricep bands press

Push-ups

REPEAT

Finish with a 1 mile jog.

Reps: 10, 8 Weights: 15lbs Push-ups: On knees 2, 2

Playlist: Dead Boys

Quick Friday Post

Two workouts to record:

Tuesday: Lower body 

5 minute warm-up

Lunges

Elbow to knee

Calf squats

Power knee

Step back lunges

Side kicks

Tip toe lunges

Side lunges

Calf raises (40lb)

Front kicks

Body squats

Back kicks

Plank

Finish with 1 round shadow boxing, 1 round heavy bag, 1 minute run in place.

Stretch.

Reps: 8, 10 Plank: 30 secs, 20.

Playlist: Ceremony

Thursday: Full body gym day

1/4 mile warm-up jog

Seated lat pull-down (50,50)

Seated row (50,50)

REPEAT

Leg extension (80,90)

Seated chest press (40,40)

Seated incline press (40,40)

REPEAT

Calf raise (140,160)

Standing tricep pull-down (30,30)

Knees push-ups

REPEAT

Body squats

Lunges

REPEAT

Finish with 10 minutes on the elliptical.

Reps: 10, 8

Hot Monday in May

It's pretty damn hot out for spring. We had temps almost to 90 today. Ick, no thanks! Give me a few more weeks of the spring temperatures. Here's today's workout:

5 minute warm-up

Seated back fly

Curl/hammer

Dips (20,10)

Knees push-ups

Lawnmowers

In & out biceps

Medicine ball tricep press

Push-ups

Shoulder press

Static arm curl

Standing decline band press

Push-ups

Upright row

In & out hammers

Tricep kickback 

Push-ups

REPEAT

1 mile jog - 12:21 and stretch

Reps: 10, 8 Weight: 15lbs Push-ups: 2, 2.

At 34 weeks now, I really do feel I'm slowing down and just big. But jeez, I am only 6 weeks away from D-Day. The 30 plus pounds are slowly catching up to me. My knees still feel good, my lower back is slightly sore. I'm aiming on trying to repeat my regular workouts for this week and see what next week brings. This is my first week of not working, so life is going to get very interesting shortly! I'm trying not to get bored that quickly. I hope to get my garden done this week. I guess I'll see how I feel!

Saturday Night Full of Action

Well that title is a big ole lie! I've been on the couch since 7:30, reading a Hellblazer graphic novel and watching boxing and UFC. And you know what, I'm perfectly content with that. I probably could have went to bed at 9, but I didn't feel like being up at 5am tomorrow. I did manage to get out of the house this morning for a run and in the afternoon, Zim and I went to the Union match. It was the first home match since our friend Eric passed away, so it was a bit emotional. There was a moment of silence, a bunch of banners, and a whole lot of love all around. His son Gabe was there and he seemed to be in good spirits. Glad we got to make the match and happy that the rain wasn't too bad. I might be able to make on last match before this baby makes his debut.

Okay here's my last two workouts:

Thursday: I went to the gym for a total body and cardio workout. 

1/4 mile jog around the inside track

Lat pull-down (50,50)

Sitting row (50,50)

REPEAT

Leg extension (80,90)

Seated Incline arm press (40,40)

Seated chest press (40,40)

REPEAT

Calf raise (140,160)

Standing tricep pull-down (30,30)

Knees push-ups

Body squats

Lunges 

REPEAT

Finish with 10-12 minutes on the elliptical

Reps: 10,8 

Playlist: FEAR: More Beer

Saturday: A nice, but pretty warm late spring run. It was pretty damn warm out in the sun. Temps were hovering right around 80 degrees. Glad I took water along with me for the jog. Luckily it was dry though. The rain came later in the day. I jogged 2.45 miles in 30 minutes 15 seconds. I felt good. No side stitches which was a big plus. My legs were HEAVY though. That might be last 2 plus mile run for me. I was never struggling, but I think these extra 30 plus pounds are starting to catch up to me. I can't complain though. I'll be 8 and 1/2 months tomorrow. Of course my damn legs are gonna be heavy!

Happy Mother's Day tomorrow!

Late Spring Workouts

Here's a quick rundown of Monday and Tuesday's workouts. I also recorded them with my IPad. One day I'll put them up on YouTube. Here goes:

Monday: 

5 minute workout

Lawnmowers

In & out curls

Medicine ball tricep press

Knees push-ups

REPEAT

In & out shoulder flys

Curls/hammers

Dips (20, 10)

Push-ups

REPEAT

Shoulder press

In & out hammers

Tricep kickbacks

Push-ups

REPEAT

Upright rows

Static arm curls

Incline tricep band press

Push-ups

REPEAT

Finish w/ a 1 mile jog and stretch

Reps:10, 8. Weight:15lbs Push-ups: 2, 2.

Playlist: FEAR

Tuesday:

5 minute warm-up

Lunges

Elbow to knee

Step back lunges

Power knee

Calf squats

Side kicks

Tip toe lunges

Front kicks

Body squats

Back kicks

Side lunges

Calf raises (40lbs)

Plank

REPEAT

Finish with 1 round shadow boxing, 1 round heavybag, 1 minute running in place

Stretch 

Reps: 10, 8 Plank: 40 secs, 20 sec

Playlist: Lawrence Arms

May the 4th Be With You

Star Wars Day! I celebrated by sitting around the house. My allergies kicked up today, so I've been dealing with a slight headache. Fun, fun. Honestly not a bad thing, since I did a bunch of running around yesterday. Did the morning jog, went to the Turf Club to put my Kentucky Derby bets in, went to my old shop for Free Comic Book Day, then went to work. I went sneaker shopping with Zim later and we went out to dinner at one of our favorite places, Craft Ale House. So yeah, I didn't mind sitting more or less on my ass all day today. 

Workout time! Here's my last few days:

Thursday: Inside gym day. Oh the looks I get from people!

1/4 mile warm-up jog

Lat pull-down (50,50)

Seated Incline Press (40,40)

REPEAT

Leg extension (80,90)

Tricep pull-down (30,30)

Seated bench press (40,40)

REPEAT

Calf raise (140,160) -12 reps

Seated row (50,50)

Knees Push-ups

Body squats

Lunges

REPEAT

Finish with 12 minutes on the elliptical.

Reps: 10, 8.

Saturday: A morning jog. About a 1/2 mile on the trail I had to turn around because there was entirely too much mud from the awful flooding we had on Wednesday. I also stopped to walk about a mile in because of a side stitch. I think that popped up more from being nervous of loosing my footage from all the mud. After about walking close to a 1/4 mile, I started to jog again and felt great. Altogether I ran 2.3 miles.

Sunday: Took close to a 2 mile walk for about a 1/2 hour this morning before the Chelsea match. It was a little chilly and drizzling a bit. Glad I got something in. 

Still feeling good, other than the headache today! 

Dreary Ass Tuesday

Bad weather is heading the way of the east coast. We're supposed to get HAMMERED with rain and storms tomorrow. The system coming has spurned tornados, hail, and some bad lightning in the mid west. Hope the basement doesn't leak! Or we lose power. It's been showering off and on all day today so it was a basement workout for me. Here goes:

5 minute warm-up

Calf squats

Lunges

Elbow to knee

Step back lunges

Calf raises (40lb)

Power knee

Tip toe lunges

Side lunges

Body squats

Front kicks

1 leg speed skater toe taps

Back kicks

Plank

REPEAT

Finish with 1 round shadow boxing, 1 round heavy bag, 1 minute run in place.

Reps:10, 8 Plank: 30 secs, 20 secs

Playlist: Lawrence Arms

Last Week of April

Beautiful sunny Monday morning today! This month flew on by. It will be summer before we know it! I'm 8 months pregnant this week. Crazy. Apparently my little boy bouncing around with me is almost 5 pounds already according to the ultrasound last Thursday. So, he's pretty damn big compared to the 3 and a 1/2 pounders to the majority of women at 8 months. Maybe a C-section is in my future. At least I feel pretty good. Anyways, here's my workouts:

Saturday: REAL nice out in the morning. I celebrated my 36th birthday with still being able to jog. I ran on the trail by my house for 29 minutes, jogging 2 and a 1/2 miles. No complains. Felt good and no side stitches. I have been regularly working my maternity belt every time I jog. It was a long day though. After my shower it was straight to work, followed by driving 35-40 minutes to Wilmington, DE for the wake of our friend Eric. After the wake we more or less drove directly to Iron Hill restaurant in Phoenixville, PA for dinner with Zim's mom. Never the less, I went to bed pretty early that night.

Sunday: Lounge around day. I needed it from Saturday. I did see that Chelsea beat Liverpool, which always makes me happy. 

Monday: Upper body strength training day and a jog. Here it is:

5 minute warm-up

Lawnmowers

In & out bicep

Medicine ball triceps press

Knees push-ups

Shoulder fly

Curl/hammers

Dips (20,10)

Push-ups

Upright row

Static arm curl

Tricep kickback

Push-ups

Shoulder press

In & out hammers

Band triceps incline press

Push-up

REPEAT

1 mile jog (12+ mins) and cool down

Reps: 10, 8. Weight: 15lbs Push-ups: on knees 2, 2

Playlist: Civil Disobedience

A Quick Week

This week has flown by. Here's a quick workout rundown thus far:

Tuesday:

5 minute warm-up

Lunges

Power knee

Calf squats

Side kicks

Tip toe lunges

Elbow to knee

Step back lunges

Side lunges

Body squats

Front kicks 

Calf raises (40lbs)

Back kicks

Planks

REPEAT

Finish with 1 round shadow boxing, 1 round heavy bag, 1 minute run in place

Reps: 10,8 Planks: 30 sec, 20 sec

Playlist: H2O

Thursday:

1/4 mile warm-up jog and stretch

Lat pulldown (50,50)

Shoulder incline press (40,40)

REPEAT

Leg extension (80,90)

Tricep pulldown (30,30)

Seated Chest press (40,40)

REPEAT

Weighted calf raise (140,160)

Seated row (50,50)

Knees Push-ups 

Body squat 

Lunges

REPEAT

10 minutes on the elliptical.

Reps: 10,8 

Playlist: Night Birds

Beautiful Morning For a Run

Beautiful out! Sunny, no wind, 60 degrees. Just awesome out. Of course I'm going to take advantage! Here this morning's workout. Expect more of the same, I just want to maintain.

5 minute warm-up

Shoulder fly

Curl/hammers

Dips (20,10)

Knees push-ups

Lawnmowers

Static arm curl

Medicine ball tricep press

Push-ups

Upright row

In & out curls

Tricep kickback 

Push-ups

Shoulder press

In & out hammers

Tricep band row

Push-ups 

REPEAT

Finish with a mile jog. 

Playlist: H2O

Reps: 10,8 Weights: 15lbs Push-ups: 2, 2 on knees

I did get a slight side cramp in my right side with less than a tenth of a mile left in my mile run. I just slowed down and ended up walking it off. I did the mile in 11:37. Off to the showers and work.

Happy Easter!

Hope everyone had a great Easter! Mine was good. I went to church in the morning, then I went to my parents' house for dinner. Good food and good times! Unfortunately after dinner I found out a friend of Zim and mine died late Saturday night. We knew him for he past 5 years and sat with him during the Union soccer matches. He was only in his early 40s and has a teenage son. He was a real class guy, excellent father, and great friend. I'm truly shocked about this news. I'm not sure what he exactly died of, but I'm sure the details will come out soon. So awful to hear. I'm truly glad I got to know him. Rest in peace Eric Shertz.

On a brighter note, I'm feeling great and got my regular workouts in. Here they are.

Tuesday: 

5 minute warm-up

Lunges

Side kicks

Calf squats

Elbow to knee

Step back lunges

Power knee

Tip toe lunges

Side lunges

Body squat

Front kicks

Weighted calf raises (40)

Back kicks

Plank

REPEAT

1 round shadow boxing, 1 round heavybag, 1 minute run in place

Reps: 10, 8 Plank: 30 secs, 20 secs.

Thursday: 

1/4 mile warm-up jog and stretch

Lat pull-down (50lbs,50)

Seated chest press (40,40)

Leg extension (80,90)

Standing tricep pull-up (30,30)

Seated row (40,50)

Calf raise (140,160)

Seated shoulder press (40,40)

Push-ups (knees 10,8)

Body squats (10,8)

Lunges (10,8)

10 minutes on the elliptical

Reps: 10,8

Playlist: OFF! 

Saturday: outside run! BEAUTIFUL day out! I jogged a little over 2 and 1/2 miles in 27 minutes, 30 seconds. I felt GREAT, and averaged a little under a 11 minute mile. I believe it was around 10:50. The maternity belt has been a life saver as well. No side stitches since I've started wearing it. I was surprised at my time. I thought I was running closer to a 12 minute mile. I'll take it!

Happy Easter!

Here Comes the Rain

Yesterday, it was almost 80. Today, as of 7pm Tuesday, the temperature is right around 45 degrees. We might even get some light snow mixed with rain. Crazy! Glad I got my little jog in yesterday coz it's been POURING all day. It looks like a river is running through my backyard. At least it's washing away all the pollen. That's a plus!

I've been getting everything slowly but surely done. Baby's room is painted, furniture is put together and in place, kitty went to the vet, car inspected, etc. Which makes me very happy. I still need to meet with the pediatrician in a couple weeks and get work done on my back deck. Not too bad though. 

I had to get a urine sample from my kitty today which was entirely too easy. I did not expect it to go well at all. He has stones and a little crystallization in his kidneys and the vet wanted to double check for blood in his urine. This morning during his morning pee I was in his room and he oddly let me get right in there in mid stream and he did not seem to care one bit. And YES I wore gloves, I'm not that nasty. That easy. It does help that I have a cat that meows for me to watch him go to the bathroom. That's my brave bengal cat! Anyways, he had tiny traces of blood, but nothing out the ordinary for a cat with some kidney issues. It was a big sigh of relief. That little guy is my best buddy!

Now for the last two days of my exercise routine. More of the same. Still feeling good and not struggling. Awesome.

Monday:

Warm-up 5 minutes

Shoulder flys

Curl/hammers

Dips (20,10)

Knees push-ups

Upright rows

In & out biceps

Tricep kickbacks

Push-ups

Shoulder press

Static arm curl

Medicine ball tricep press (9lbs)

Push-ups

Lawnmowers

In & out hammers

Standing Tricep band press

Push-ups

REPEAT

Finish with 1 mile jog

Cool down 

Reps: 10, 8. Weight: 15lbs. Push-ups: 2, 2 (on knees)

Playlist: Lawrence Arms

Tuesday:

Warm-up 5 minutes

Lunges

Elbow to knee

Step back lunges

Side kicks

Calf squats

Side lunges

Tip toe lunges

Power knee

Body squats

Front kicks

Calf raises (40lb)

Back kicks

Plank

REPEAT

Finish with 1 round shadow boxing, 1 round heavybag, 1 minute run in place

Cool down

Reps: 10, 8. Plank: 30 secs, 20.

Playlist: Choking Victim

Monday Monday

It's a beautiful Monday morning out! And it was a beautiful weekend as well. Sunny and in the mid 60s. Saturday I got in a 2 and a 1/2 mile jog for about a 1/2 hour. It was a real nice morning jog. No side stitches, not a bunch of people on the trail, and not a ton of wind. The maternity belt is still helping a TON. Sunday I took it easy and went for a walk in the morning for a 1/2 hour with Zim. Still feeling pretty good at 30 weeks now. Off to get my Monday morning chores done.

Thirsty Thursday

I wish! Water for me please. The weather is beautiful around here for the past few days. Sunny and in the 60s. Love it! Here's a quick round up of this week's workouts.

Sunday: A nice 1/2 hour walk around Phoenixville with my buddy Lou with a decaf coffee and a scone afterwards.

Monday: The usual upper body work.

5 minute warm-up

Upright row

In & out curls

Medicine ball tricep press

Knees push-ups

Shoulder fly

Curl/hammers

Dips (20,10)

Push-ups

Shoulder press

In & out hammers

Tricep kickback

Push-ups

Lawnmowers 

Static arm curl

Standing band tricep row

Push-ups

REPEAT

Finish with a mile run

Cool down

Reps: 10, 8. Weights: 15lbs Push-ups on knees: 2, 2.

Tuesday: The usual leg routine.

5 minute warm-up

Lunges

Power knee 

Calf squats

Side kicks

Calf raises (40lb total)

Tip toe lunges

Side lunges

Body squats

Elbow to knee

Step back lunges

Front kicks

Back kicks

Plank

REPEAT

1 round shadow boxing, 1 round heavy bag, 1 minute run in place.

Cool down

Reps: 10, 8 Plank: 30 sec, 20 sec

Playlist: Spazm 151, Sparta

Wednesday: Rest

Thursday: Upper and lower body at the gym

1/4 mile jog warm-up

Lat pull-down (50,50)

Seated shoulder press (40,40)

Calf raises (120,140,160)

REPEAT

Standing tricep pull-down (30,30)

Seated chest press (40,40)

Leg extension machine (80,90)

REPEAT

Upright row (15,15)

Curl/hammer (15,15)

Body squats

Lunges 

REPEAT

10 minutes on the elliptical

Reps: 10,8 

Playlist: Coke Bust, Dirty Kid Discount

I'm feeling pretty good overall. It's hard to tie my shoes, but body squats don't give me much trouble. Never thought I'd be maintaining this routine at week 29 of my pregnancy. I'm super happy about this. Anything past 30 weeks is honestly a treat for me. Let's hope I can keep it up while feeling good and still full of energy!

Jogging For the Weekend

Just got back from my jog. One thing I have to say is that my new Gabrialla maternity belt worked AWESOME! No side stitch, my back felt supported, and I felt altogether just more snug in my belly. I'm very happy with my purchase. Maybe it's a placebo effect, but I felt the extra support on my body. I aimed for 2-2 and 1/4 miles today, and ended up a little shy of 2 and 1/2. I also was planning on walking if I started feeling any sorta ache or pain and didn't have to do that either. My exact numbers were 2.47 miles in 28:30. I averaged around an 11:33 mile too. I'm very happy with that. 

Thursday was the last time I got a workout in. It was a bit rainy so I went to the gym. Here goes:

1/4 mile warm-up jog

Lat pull-down (50,50)

Seated overhead press (40,40)

REPEAT

Leg extension (80,90)

Standing tricep pull-down (30,30)

Seated chest press (30,30)

REPEAT

Calf raises (120,140,160)

Upright row (15,15)

Curl/hammer (15,15)

Body squats

Lunges

REPEAT

Finish with a mile or so on the elliptical

Cool down

Playlist: Cloud Nothings

Back to my weekend!

Another Week

I meant to blog last weekend, but just ran outta time. The weekend was a little wet but we had temperatures in the upper 50s. Pretty nice in the late morning, then it downpoured for the rest of the day, into Sunday. I did get a jog in Saturday morning. I felt good until about a mile and 3/4s in. Side stitch on my right side. I stopped and walked for a couple minutes, then tried to jog again, but the side stitch came back, so I walked the rest of the way back to my Jeep. It's never excruciating, but slightly painful and uncomfortable. After a couple of minutes it subsides. Ugh, it was my welcome to hitting 7 months. I did tell my doctor about it, and as I figured, pretty common. With 25 extra pounds on me and a lower lying baby boy, no wonder my side can get a little sore. I was told to slow down and walk when this happens, so I was doing the right thing. I was also told to make sure I'm hydrated enough as well. I got about 2 and a 1/4 miles in altogether. I think my jogging days are pretty numbered and the elliptical will become main source of cardio.

Sunday, it was pouring all day, so it was off to the gym to ride the elliptical. I did about 35 minutes and about 2 and 1/2 miles. I ran I to an old friend and trainer that worked at a gym I used to go to about 5 years ago, so we got to catch up a bit as we peddled away on the ellipticals. And no side stitches! I did feel a little sore during the rest of the day. My back was slightly sore, my sides a little bit as well. I started to feel, well 7 months pregnant and 35 years old.

Monday, I was feeling back to normal again. I got my normal upper body workout in. Here goes:

5 minute warm-up

Shoulder press

In & out bicep curl

Medicine ball tricep press (9lbs)

Push-ups (on knees)

Seated back flys

Curl/hammers

Dips (20,10)

Push-ups

Lawnmowers

In & out hammers

Tricep kickback

Push-ups

Upright rows

Static arm curls

Standing tricep band press

REPEAT

1 mile jog

Cool down

Weights: 15lbs. Reps: 10,8 Push-ups: 2, 2.

Playlist: American Distress

My jog went well. I started off walking for a few minutes, then started my jog. I jogged quite slow and I felt pretty good. No side stitch. I was at a 12:35 mile. I showered up and met up with Zim and our boss Jon, to pick up the baby furniture. 

Tuesday, was a leg day. I worked out a little earlier cause I had a doctor's appointment at 1pm. Here goes:

5 minute warm-up

Lunges

Body squats

Power knee

Calf raises

Tip toe lunges

Elbow to knee

Side kicks

Calf squats

Side lunges

Step back lunges

Front kicks

Back kicks

Plank

REPEAT

Finish with 1 round shadow boxing, 1 round heavy bag, 1 minute running in place.

Reps: 10, 8 Planks: 30 secs, 20 secs

Playlist: Morning Glory

Doc's went great. I asked about my side stitch concerns and my ever so fun acid reflux issues. They did find I'm slightly anemic. I don't eat red meat, so it makes total sense. I was directed to take iron pills, which I started yesterday. I only gained 3 pounds since last appointment, so that was good. I'm at 25 altogether now, which is good, but a little on the heavier side. She did said my belly grew and I could bet on a big baby. And that there may be a chance that I might go a little sooner than they expected. So little Andre the Giant is doing well! 

Off to get dressed and take my kitty to the vet in about an hour. He has his annual vet appointment. Hope the little guy has a clean bill of health! 

Thursday Part 2

Got a quick workout this afternoon. I was still waiting for my Jeep to be inspected, so I waited for Zim to get home to go to the gym. I got about 35 minutes in. Here goes:

1/4 mile warm-up jog

Seated chest press (35,35)

Lat pull-down (50,50)

REPEAT

Leg extension machine (80,90)

Tricep pull-down (30,30)

Seated overhead shoulder press (40,40)

REPEAT

Calf raises (120,140,160)

Upright row (15,15)

Curl/hammers (15,15)

Body squats

Lunges

REPEAT

Finish w/ 1/2 mile on elliptical or 6 minutes

Cool down 

Reps: 10, 8

Playlist: American Distress

Baseball Right Around the Corner

Almost that time of year again. The crack of the bat, vendor's yelling "popcorn", and that cool summer breeze blowing through as you sip your beer. Yes, baseball starts on Monday. I'm excited. I'm hoping to maybe make it to one Phillies game in April and one more at the end of September. I just love sitting at the ballpark taking in all the atmosphere. Though my hopes for the Phillies making the playoffs are quite close to nil, I still enjoy going to the games. I figure they'll be close to a wild card spot to keep folks paying attention to them into the beginning of August, but ultimately be about 6 games out. I would REALLY hope to be wrong, but this year's team is old and mediocre. We shall see.

I've had a pretty busy week thus far. I had to take my glucose test, visited my Grandma for her 90th birthday, and today getting my car inspected. Zim's been busy with the nursery, and is getting ready to paint this weekend. About a half hour ago, I just received an email saying the baby furniture is ready to get picked up or shipped. So things are busy, but getting done.

Workouts are still getting squeezed in and I'm still feeling energetic. Here goes:

Monday: 

5 minute warm-up

Lawnmowers

In & out bicep

Medicine ball tricep press (9lb)

Push-ups

Back fly

Hammer/curls

Dips (20,10)

Push-ups

Shoulder press

Concentration curls

Tricep kickback

Push-ups

Upright row

Static arm curls

Standing tricep band press

Push-ups

REPEAT

1 mile jog (it was damn COLD)

Cool down 

Weights: 15lbs Reps: 10,8 Push-ups: 2, 1

Playlist: Morning Glory

Tuesday:

5 minute warm-up

Lunges

Body squats

Power knee 

Calf raises (40lb)

Side kicks

Side lunges

Tip toe lunges

Elbow to knee

Step back lunges

Calf squats

Front kicks

Back kicks

Planks

REPEAT

Finish with 1 round shadow boxing, 1 round heavy bag

Planks: 30 sec, 20 sec Reps: 10,8

Playlist: InDK

Spring Time?

Still pretty chilly for spring, and a chance of a little snow come Wednesday. I've been keeping busy between work, getting ready for the baby, and the workouts. Zim and I got to go out for a bit last night for a farewell party for a friend of ours that's moving to Texas for a couple of years. It was fun. We got to see a bunch of people we haven't seen in a while. Good times.

This week is going to be pretty full, but I'm glad I'm getting things done. I have a hospital tour today, glucose test Tuesday, and I'm getting my car inspected Thursday. Zim has pretty much finished clearing out the baby's room and wants to start painting this week or next weekend. I have the baby furniture already ordered, we're just waiting for it to get shipped and delivered. Happy we're getting the main stuff done kinda early.

And yes, the workouts. I'm still getting them in 5 days a week. And I'm happy I still can at 27 weeks. Here's my workout week wrap-up:

Tuesday: I worked out a little earlier, coz I was meeting my mom at Babies R Us. VERY pleased that I got it in. I had no idea that we'd be at the store for almost 3 hours. Ridiculous. Very nice people there, just no one but the manager knowing how to order furniture. At least it's DONE. Until I get shipped the wrong stuff. I wouldn't be surprised. ANYWAYS...legs.

5 minute warm-up

Lunges

Power knee

Side lunges

Tip toe lunges

Body squats

Calf raises (40lb)

Side kicks

Step back lunges

Elbow to knee

Calf squats

Front kicks

Back kicks

Plank

REPEAT 

1 round shadow boxing, 1 round heavy bag.

Cool down 

Reps: 10, 8 Planks: 30 sec, 20 sec.

Thursday: Total body gym day.

1/4 mile jog on the indoor track.

Lat pull-down (50lb, 50)

Seated shoulder press (35,35)

REPEAT

Seated leg flexion (80,90)

Seated chest press (35,35)

Standing tricep pull-down (30,30)

REPEAT

Calf raises (120,140,160)

Upright row (dumbbells 15,15)

Curls/hammers (15,15)

Body squats 

Elbow to knee

REPEAT

1 mile on the elliptical (about 12 minutes)

Cool down 

Reps: 10,8

Saturday: Beautiful day for a run. Upper 50s/low 60s and sunny. There was a bit of wind, but it wasn't too bad. I started running on the trail but got mixed in around the same pace with 3 other runners, and a little girl on a bike. So, I only had patience for about a 1/2 mile then turned around to run on the road part of the trail. Glad I did coz I got to see that they cleared out the grass part of the trail and put a new bridge in. Never really ran back there coz I encountered 2 water snakes. I'm fine with snakes, but ones near the water and out in the woods scare the crap outta me. Zim had a couple ball pythons, so they don't really bother me. They were behind glass though. ANYWAYS...I got about 2 and 1/2 miles in under 27 minutes. I averaged a 10:49 mile. I felt good, no side stitch or anything. My legs felt heavy though. That's the 20 extra pounds I'm carrying around. 

Sunday: Nice chilly walk. My legs are a little sore, so I took it easy and took a walk with Zim around the neighborhood for a little over a 1/2 hour. 

Now I'm off to make some lunch and MAYBE get a quick little nap in before this hospital tour. Happy Sunday!