workout wednesday …

Now that spring is here (fingers crossed!), here are a few local races to get you motivated & moving again!

3/23   Shamrock 10k and Leprechaun 5k
4/6     Indian Trails
4/13   BlueClaws 5k
4/26   Asbury Park Half Marathon
4/26   Jersey Shore Relay Marathon
5/3     River to Bay 5k
5/10   Mom's Rock Run
5/24   Spring Lake 5
6/7     Sgt. Lyon's Run to Remember
6/14   George Sheehan Classic

happy running!

workout wednesday …

grab a kettlebell for this workout and get swinging!  unsure of the moves?  click here to see them before you get started!


10minute treadmill run

50  air squats
40  reverse lunge with kettlebell pass-through
30  box jumps
20  kettlebell swings
10  burpees
10 push-ups

repeat 3x
advanced? repeat 5x

10minute treadmill run


happy sweating!

workout wednesday ...

it's that time of year again.  i have signed up for a spring race and training is beginning for me.  i'm not entirely certain as to why i do this to myself.  when i actually think about it, it always comes down to the same reason. motivation.  to stay motivated.  to keep going.  there's nothing quite like signing up for a race/event to kickstart you into gear.

but, sadly, it's just downright awful to train for a race during the winter months.  and, as i said, i can't stand the treadmill.  despise it with a passion.  so, for me, that means i have to get my butt outside. maybe these yaktrax will help when running out in the snow & ice.  anyone ever tried them?  i've been meaning to purchase a pair as i hear great things, but have yet to.

so, i'm officially entered into the Nike Women's Half Marathon in Washington DC on 4/28.  here's a peek at what my training schedule will look like.  this may be quite ambitious of me, but i think at this point, i can no longer follow the 'novice' plan.  i know i'm starting a few weeks late so i'll have to play catch up at some point.

new to running and/or running your first half marathon this spring?  i like this plan for newbies.  it's easily attainable.  the only change i would consider is adding an additional rest day on sunday so you don't over-train and tire out your legs.

and, that also means i need some new tunes!  here's what i'm loving & listening to lately:

* all of this - the naked & famous

* happy - pharrell williams

* under control (ft Hurts) - calvin harris & alesso

* can't remember to forget you - shakira ft rihanna

* reunion - M83

* punching in a dream - the naked and famous

* collide -jake miller

* red lights - tiesto

* you will leave a mark - a silent film

* silhouettes - avicii

* cheating - john newman

* hold on - colbie caillat

happy sweating!

workout wednesday …

stuck inside due to the snow? here's an easy ( hmmmmm ??? ) workout you can do right in your own living room with some dumbbells.  all you need is a tabata timer.  here's the timer i like to use.
use the timer to complete each exercise. by definition, tabata interval training is 20 seconds of high intensity exercise followed by 10 seconds of rest repeated 8 times.
in the event you don't have access to a set of weights, include these exercises instead:  tuck jumps, tricep dips, plank jacks.

happy sweating!

workout wednesday …

let's face it.  as a runner, particularly a runner who lives for running outdoors, it can be challenging to get up and get outside to get a run in.  running in the winter months can be  downright awful.  it's dark, cold, cloudy, rainy, windy.  just not as much fun as running in the sunshine. it takes a lot of self-motivation and dedication.  and, as much of a proponent as i am for running outside, sometimes i just can't bring myself to do it.  
welcome the 'dreadmill,' as i affectionately call it.  
i myself cannot run long distances on the treadmill. never have, never will. so to spice things up, i like to use the treadmill for speed work and shorter distances.  here's one to try via fitsugar!  pick your level of intensity: beginner, intermediate, or advanced and start sweating.  whether you're just beginning to run or looking to work on your speed work , there's a plan for you.  you'll be blasting fat in no time!  looking to spend only 15 minutes on the treadmill?  then try this one.  it comes courtesy of the women who co-own Shred 415.  located in Chicago, this gym creates "workouts based on the idea that high intensity interval training is the best way to burn fat and calories quickly."  searching for a similar style workout in NYC?  check out my favorite(s), barry's bootcamp or the fhitting room.

workout wednesday ...

  they say you are what you eat.  so, what are you?  are you a lean, mean, fighting machine? or are you full of garbage?

  there's no better time than now to start eating healthy.  start small.  it's all about little baby steps forward.  swap out the soda and juice drinks for fruit infused water or sparkling water. throw out the processed foods (chips, crackers, cookies, etc.) and replace them with fruits and vegetables.  eat clean.  eliminate sugar.  it is the devil!  a cold, hard fact.  the more sugar you eat, the more you crave it.  i can personally attest to this.  i stopped buying the chocolate covered pretzels (my weakness!) and eating ice cream every night (i'm not kidding when i say this…i was eating ice cream with peanut butter and chocolate chips every.single.night.) because i realized around 8pm i had to have my "fix."  it became a sugar addiction.  i ended up quitting cold turkey, but that doesn't have to be the case for you.  and yes, i still have some "sweet treats" here and there (hello christmas cookies!), but now i'm aware that after i eat them, i want more.  without fail.

  so when i'm trying to detox from my sugar craving, i stock up on fruit.  i juice.  i "eat" my greens.  i drink water!  speaking of water, have you heard about the waterlogged app ?!  friends of mine shared it with me and with my monthly goal being to drink more water, i checked it out immediately.  it was designed to help chart and remind you how much water you've had and should be drinking.  genius. why did i not think of this?!

if you're looking for a super sweaty fix to kickstart your healthy butt into gear, try this one. the beauty of this workout is it can be done anywhere. no gym necessary! perfect for those snowy days when you're stuck inside! 

note:  i am not a doctor nor am i able to give/prescribe medical advice. as always, consult with a physician before starting an exercise routine and nutrition plan.

photo credit:  image source: @detoxtips via instagram

happy 2014!

ahhhhhhh…january first.  a time for new year's resolutions.  we all make them. and then, we all break them.  i'm the first to admit that i usually tell myself " this year, i'm going to do more of this and i'm going to do more of that, blah, blah, blah."  and, of course, i become frustrated when it all falls apart.  i've come to the conclusion that it's much more manageable to make monthly goals rather than LONG yearly goals!  it's easily attainable!  i can hold myself accountable for a month.  i mean, what's 30 days.  we can all do that!  365…complete different story.  so rather than beat myself up for the next few months, i don't make resolutions.  i just don't do it.  i'd rather set a goal.  because we can all set goals and accomplish them.  and what better feeling do you get from achieving your goal?!

if i share my goal for the month of january, will you share yours?  let's hold each other accountable to active that goal!  one monthly goal of mine is to drink more water.  i'm sooo sooo sooo bad at it.  in addition to hydrating with more water, i'm hoping to focus on drinking lemon water.  there are numerous health benefits to drinking lemon water.  just look at them all!  or this recipe for sassy water via a sweet simple life.  don't you just want to try a drink with a title like that?  and, i'm pretty certain if i had one of these pretty water bottles, then i'd definitely be inclined to drink more!

so, tell me, what is yours?




ps…as i sit here putting the final touches on this post, i have a mug of lemon water right next to me :)  day 1 = done!

workout wednesday

  don't let the holiday celebrations get the best of you!  stay active throughout the season as much as 

possible!

  here's a workout to keep you motivated!  it's a tough one…especially when you have your husband making you hustle :)  let me know how you do!

  there's nothing like new workout gear to keep you motivated.  treat yourself or ask for it underneath the christmas tree!  i love all the pastel colors in this new arrivals collection from athleta.  i think the shimmer seamless tanks and shimmer tights are my favorite and the no sweatin' it pant looks so incredibly cozy.

gift guide for fitness junkies ...

(lululemon ear warmer, asics sneakers, headbands, the mat, nike top, bkr water bottle, athleta tank top, the towel,  lululemon bag, jump rope,  asics sneakers,  athleta pant, beats by dre headphones, polar FT4 heart rate monitor, athleta zip-up, nike tights)

  here it is!  this post is full of gift ideas for the fitness junkie in your life.  i had the hardest time narrowing it down to the above products so here's more:

tops:  look here at this fabletics top.  Kate Hudson is a collaborator!  i'm loving this lululemon top here.  it looks so comfy & cozy! you can never go wrong with this underamour top here or this nike top here and here!  this is a fun top for yoga or the gym.

pants: love this lululemon pant! find a fun print on this athleta pant and these asics pant.  these underamour pants look perfect for winter running!

accessories: it's no surprise that i'm a lululemon junkie, especially their new online-only collection. check out this scarf, this bag, these legwarmers! i want it all!  these tights and these socks are super cute too!

happy shopping!

workout wednesday

  last week, i was stuck in the house with two sick kiddies.  no fun.  since my activity was limited and it was tough to leave the house, i began searching for "at-home workouts".  i discovered this workout and decided to give it a try.  i also added a tabata set of air squats and push-ups.  holy hard!  try this one when you can't get out!

workout wednesday

    It's time to update your playlist(s)!  Here's some new music to listen to!  Happy running!

linkin park - a light that never comes

pitbull ft enrique - come N go

ellie goulding - burn

katy perry & juicy j - dark horse

enimem ft rihanna - monster

the temper trap - fader

ke$ha - boots & boys

avicii - you make me

flo rida - how i feel

fitz & the tantrums - out of my league

neon jungle - trouble

lady gaga ft r kelly - do what you want

workout wednesday

  So, this past month while things were quiet, I kept busy by training for the NYC marathon.  Busy is quite the understatement.  With a month's notice I decided to have a run at it (forgive the pun, but I couldn't help myself :)

  I had run a marathon once before, and quite frankly, it was awful.  At least from what I could recall  when I ran it almost four years ago.  I had swore off marathons especially after I hit my "wall" at mile 18, and began to curse off the world and my innocent husband who pirated the entire race in an effort to support me.  Unless, of course, I was able to get into NYC.  Running NYC has always been on my "bucket list" and when the opportunity arose to run through charity, I knew I had to do it.  I was a stronger runner this time around, and although I had planned on applying for the chance next year, I figured who knows where I'll be at this time next year.  You're healthy, run now!  So, I did!

workout wednesday

New running sneakers are out for 2013.  Ever step into a running store, and wonder which shoe is right for you?  Look at the wall of shoes, become completely overwhelmed, and then just choose a pair of sneakers based upon their pretty colors?  I cannot lie--been there, done that :)

Luckily, most running stores offer gait analysis and will help to fit you in the right shoe for your foot and according to your stride.  Additionally, most employees are runner themselves so they know the product, and understand the love of running.  Be sure to take advantage of this FREE service.  There's no pressure to have to buy at that immediate moment.  Use the information as a tool for purchasing either then or in the future.

Or, take a peek at flow chart from Runner's World and see if this helps with the decision.

Happy Running!

xo

tara

ps... I know it's not Wednesday, but my kids are sick and both are FINALLY napping!  A moment of peace & quiet!

workout wednesday

Add these songs to your workout playlist and get ready to sweat!

1.   Applause by Lady Gaga

2.   Next In Line by Walk the Moon

3.   Phoenix by Fall Out Boy

4.   Summertime Sadness by Lana Del Ray

5.   Wake Me Up by Avicii

6.   It's Not My Fault I'm Happy by Passion Pit

7.   A Little Party Never Killed Nobody by Fergie

8.  Mountain Sound by Of Monsters & Men

9.   Roar by Katy Perry

10. Howl by Florence + the Machine

11.  All Night by Icona Pop

12.  Hold On, We're Going Home by Drake ft. Majid Jordan (cool down)

bonus:  Take You Higher by Goodwill & Hook N Sling

xo

tara

workout wednesday

(photo via lululemon)

It's no secret I am obsessed with running.  I adore those mornings when I wake early, throw my running clothes on, and am out the door, and there's not a person in sight.  It's just me, myself, and I pounding the pavement listening to either music blasting in my ears (bad, I know) or the stillness of the day before the rest of the world wakes.  It doesn't matter how fast or far I run.  I am simply in love with high I get from feeling accomplished upon finishing.  I did it!  And, there's no better "runner's high" then after finishing a race be it a marathon, half marathon, or 5k.   The endorphin rush leaves you feeling exhilarated, and before you know it, you're registering for the next event.  It's a good addiction to have :)

Below are a few of my favorites local races throughout the fall (disclaimer: there are many, many more! This is my short list!).  Check them out and consider signing up for one!  Signing up for an event is a great way to get started or to stay motivated.  There are also plenty of training programs and resources available so don't be afraid.  In the words of Nike, just do it.

workout wednesday

(the fhitting room)

I took a break from my usual workout routine today, and joined my husband as he headed into the city this morning.  He went for business, and I jumped at the opportunity to squeeze in some "me" time.

One of my favorite fitness boutiques to visit is the fhitting room.  They offer a total body, high intensity interval training workout with killer music in a small class setting where you are guaranteed to sweat!  I love it!  My only wish is for the class to be a tad bit longer...forty-five minutes goes by too quickly when are you having fun! 

workout wednesday

Happy Wednesday!  Try this "no nonsense" circuit today!  Challenge yourself for either a minimum of 3 rounds or a maximum of 5 rounds.

Also, don't forget...today is the last complimentary "Yoga at the Shore" session hosted by Lululemon.
Click here for more details.

Get out and go sweat!

xo
tara

workout wednesday

Happy Wednesday!  As I mentioned previously, I've been trying to incorporate more yoga into my routine since it provides such a great stretch from all the running I do.  Here is a fun opportunity for you to practice outside for FREE! There are only two classes left in this series...be sure to take advantage of them!

Click here for more info!

Get out and go sweat!

xo
tara

workout wednesday

view details here : one more tri

    One of my close friends from high school has recently made the move back East from California.  When we were younger we used to swim and run together quite frequently.  As years went by, she took to participating in triathlons while I chose to focus on running (I swore I would never get back into the pool after spending so many afternoons swimming for our high school team!).  Now that she's back on the east coast, she somehow managed to get me back in the water, and I actually enjoyed it!  She's working on getting me to participate in a triathlon, and I'm thinking the above may be my first!  

Check it out here.  It is a great event for a GREAT cause! 

Happy Wednesday!  Get out and go sweat!

xo

tara

workout wednesday (a day late!)

(photo is not mine nor is it my husband)

  Well, it's obviously not Wednesday!  I apologize for the delay, but my dear daughter has been sick the past few days so I had to take time out and put on my mom hat.

But, as I always say, better late than never!  Since we live so close to the beach, it allows us the perfect opportunity to get some sprint work done in the sand...always switching it up and confusing the body!  Above is a great sprint workout and working out in the sand creates an unstable & challenging surface for your body to tackle.  Have fun with it! Try this and let me know how you do!

Get out and go sweat!

xo
tara