ashleyd /

Morning Motivation Playlist

I had a sweaty date this morning with these spin shoes and my iPod!

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This morning was different than the past few. I sprung out of bed and was out the door within five minutes. I was excited for my first solo spin session. My Equinox features six spin bikes near the treadmills which are available for members to use freely.

Last night I made a new motivation playlist, just in time for this morning’s spin workout and tomorrow morning’s long run in Central Park. This list is a compilation of old favorites (Yeah, 3 AM, Stand Up, What’s Your Fantasy), suggestions from Ali’s recent playlist (The Time, Hold It Against Me), and songs that my instructors have featured recently during their classes.

I loved every second of my morning music and even caught myself singing during my spin session!

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I also gained a sense of satisfaction from this morning’s session. After a year of spin classes, I was able to mix up my resistance, up downs, and speed to throw together a 45 minute sweat session that left my legs tired but not too exhausted before tomorrow’s long run.

What’s your favorite workout song right now to motivate you through your workout?

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ashleyd /

Divas Half Marathon on Long Island

I stated on Twitter earlier that I was definitely not in the best of moods after my third day of consumer research which meant 10 hours of sitting and listening to interviews.

 

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It is clear that I’ve grown accustomed to a few things:

1) Morning workouts

2) Eating my own meals

3) Interacting with others

The past few days have meant very early departure times from our office so we could reach NJ before the height of commute traffic. This morning I wasn’t able to squeeze in a morning workout and was moody all day. In addition, we weren’t able to bring our own meals since we were in the middle of research at lunch time. Today that meant Panera which was okay but Monday and Tuesday that meant catered lunch. Research means a lot of listening and very little talking. I’m used to leading and participating in meetings all day long so this was a big change from my usual schedule.

But, instead of letting this mood ruin my evening I took some suggestions:

1) Get some exercise

2) Call a friend

3) Do something that makes you happy

I walked the 2 miles home from work instead of taking the Subway. The weather is absolutely gorgeous outside and this gave me a small amount of much needed movement.

I called my friend who passed her PT certification (Yay Chrissie!) to congratulate her and then spoke to my parents the rest of the way home. These two phone calls definitely made me smile. (Thanks mom & dad)

I registered for the October 3rd Diva Half Marathon Divas Half Marathon at Long Island and Girls' 5K logo                  when I got home. I’ve been talking about this for a while after hearing that Dori, Melissa, and Rebecca have all registered I decided to pull the trigger! It wasn’t cheap but it will definitely be fun. Now I just have to figure out how to get to Long Island! 🙂 This should hopefully fit into my NYC Marathon training plan perfectly.

I’ve actually never been to Long Island so this race should be really pretty and allow me to see a new area. In addition, it’s nice and flat which will be a treat! I’m looking forward to long training runs with these ladies around the city! Is anyone else doing this half marathon?

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Back to Basics: Lunch and Dinner

Similar to my breakfast this morning, when I’m trying to get back to basic, healthy eating I keep my meals simple and routine. I find that the first few days back on track are easier if my meals are planned in advance and have little variation. In fact, I’ve often read in many health and wellness magazines that the less thought one has to give to their daily meals and snacks the more likely they are to stick to the routine!

Today’s lunch was basic but delicious. I enjoyed a salad from Pax, keeping in mind that salad toppings can easily add up. 

For example, if you love the crunch nuts provide, keep in mind that one tablespoon can equal over 100 calories. Use carrots and celery for added crunch instead. If you MUST have nuts on your salad, be sure to enjoy almonds or cashews with our lower in calories.

Dried fruit can also add up very quickly. I’ve noticed myself enjoying tangy craisins or chewy raisins on my salads more and more these days. However, a small serving can equal at least 100 calories. A healthier alternative would be fresh apples and grapes which add more fiber and bulk since they aren’t concentrated.

While grilled vegetables include vegetables in their name, they are often drenched in oil. Therefore, it’s often safer to stick with raw vegetables versus grilled or roasted vegetables at the salad bar.

Therefore I stuck with egg whites for protein and lots of healthy vegetables.

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Thanks to Meghann’s freezing tips, tonight’s dinner was simple and easy as well. I enjoyed a hearty portion of thawed mushroom chicken chili and a side salad. It was absolutely delicious and the perfect post workout dinner.

Hope you have a great Wednesday! I’m going to enjoy a run with Rachel tomorrow in honor of National Running Day!

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