Thanks!

Thanks everyone for reading my blog, Sue's 6 week challenge is officially over :) I will fly to Germany tomorrow night and hopefully look great in my dress... I had so much fun writing a blog the last couple of weeks, and I still have a couple of punds to lose, so I will continue writing about my love-hate relationship with exercising. I also want to include food and all the fun stuff that San Francisco has to offer...so if you are interested, please follow my new blog:

http://fitnessfoodfunsf.blogspot.com/

A beautiful and relaxing weekend in Tahoe

I spent this weekend in the Olympic Valley near Lake Tahoe with friends. I have been there a couple of times before, I really love it! We chilled near Lake Donner all day Saturday, a lot of time for reading and thinking and especially for doing nothing, I really needed such a day. I felt ok wearing my bikini, the hard workout is definitely paying off :)

I went for a short 5.5 mile run Sunday morning to make up for Saturday night’s Tapas and wine, it was such a beautiful run along a river – except that I totally underestimated how cold it is in the mountains at 6.45 am in the morning! My car measured 35 °F (2 °C). The first 10 minutes into my run, I thought I will freeze to death (I was only wearing a shirt and shorts…). The trail was very scenic and the answers to a couple of important questions I am trying address in my life at the moment suddenly became crystal clear. I was a bit nervous though because I ran by myself (everybody else was still in bed…just like a normal person on a Sunday morning) and there are many bears in the area. Last summer when I was in Tahoe, we were out on our balcony watching a bear that was just standing next to my car…they are definitely around! Luckily, I didn’t meet a bear this weekend! I also swam 20 minutes in the Donner Lake; I really couldn’t swim any longer because it was it was FREEZING cold (60° F/15° C).

Today, back in San Francisco, I went for another 8 mile run to the Bridge, I am panicking a little since the half marathon is coming up soon…It took me 1:20h (6 miles/h pace), I most likely run another 2:20h finishing time even though I wanted to be faster…but I decided to see this race as a simple training run for the marathon in October, because after all, I didn’t really train that hard for this race.

I went to a bar method class tonight, it was great because we were only 5 people. As a consequence, we all got a lot of attention, the class was hard but we all got a lot out of it. Tomorrow morning the new Basic Training session starts – yay, can’t wait!

A week packed with Bar method

My week was packed with Bar method classes, I went there every day. I think I am slowly getting better. The funny thing is that the better my form gets, the more exhausting the exercises feel. I guess I "cheated" a little bit in the beginning or didn't try as hard because it almost felt easier then...I do sweat more now and I find it more exhausting but very efficient. I really like the way my body feels after class, especially my abs. In each class, there is a series of thigh-work, that's the hardest for me. The stretching afterwards is a nice reward though (it is almost as good as the feeling when you get out of your ski boots after a long day of skiing, just that it is a relief in your thighs in this case).

I only went for 2x 3 mile-runs this week, not quite enough to get ready for my half-marathon. I only have 3 weeks left! I'll be in Tahoe this weekend and I hope to squeeze in at least a 6mile-run on Sunday. But the major goal for this weekend is to RELAX. I bought 2 new books and 3 magazines, I see myself sitting at the lake's shore all day...

I am really looking forward to my trip to Tahoe. And on Monday, a new "Basic training"-session starts, I can't wait!!!

The time after the challenge

So, the challenge is over.... I think some of my friends are really glad as they got sick of seeing me working out all the time. I read an article about over-exercising yesterday and it said that this is the "new eating disorder". I hope I am not going in that direction, but I am certainly addicted to my workouts already, it gives me an endorphine rush and makes me feel good, especially when work is stressing me. My workouts are at the moment my favorite time of the day. I hope that this will change eventually but right now it has high priority in my life. But I also don't want to be too obsessive about it, I am aware that it is a fine line.

I also needed more sleep the last couple of weeks and I didn't drink alcohol (with may be 3 exceptions) so I wasn't exactly as "social" as I am usually. But I have to say even though the challenge is officially over, I still want to stick with my workout. The half-marathon and the full marathon are still ahead of me and also I am really motivated with the results I achieved over the last 6 weeks. I talked to a Neuroscientist (no, I wasn't talking to myself...) who is specialized in nutrition, with special focus on eating behavior and sleeping habits in context with weight gain/loss, it was very interesting. According to his calculations, my "ideal" weight would be 15 lbs less....jeez! When he asked "Does this sound good to you?" I couldn't help but say "No".... seems like too much. Anyway, he has very interesting views and provided me a lot of information, we'll see.

Bootcamp won't start again before next Monday, I am doing the Bar method almost every day this week. I can feel my abs and my back with every step I take, it hurts but it is a good pain ;-) Yesterday, I had the first class at Bar method that I really disliked. It was the first time I worked out with this particular instructor and I certainly won't return. The worst part was when she walked around to correct people's posture, she didn't use her hands or words (just like all the other instructors do) but she tried to bring my back and butt in the right position by kicking my butt with her knee...are you kidding me?????? That really wasn't appropriate and it certainly didn't help me to find the right position. And that was just one of the things that bothered me...Never mind, lesson learned, you won't see me again in your class!

Yesterday morning I worked out at the Lyon Street stairs and I ran into my old bootcamp group - again! Some of the people I haven't seen in 7 weeks and someone said "Hey Sue, are you going to work out with us today???". Well, I guess not... It was really weird because I do like the people there as well but I have made my choice :) I met a friend from my old bootcamp group in the supermarket yesterday (we used to work out together for several months) - it was great to see her again. She didn't know about my "6 week challenge" and when she saw me, she said"Sue, what did you do? You look great! Did you lose weight?". Thanks Katie!! That makes you the first person that officially noticed a change. I guess it is easier for someone who hasn't seen me for 8 weeks compared to someone who is seeing me every day. Also, more and more people are giving me a feedback on my blog. It always makes me blush, especially since I posted the before/after pictures...but it also makes me so happy that people are reading my blog and join me on my journey. I'll keep you posted ;-)

One thing that I forgot to mention when I summarized my 6 weeks is that I am "sweetener-free" now. I use "real" sugar to sweeten my coffee and I am not having diet coke any more. I tried one the other day and after 5 weeks without diet soda, I honestly didn't like the taste of it anymore. I used to love it, it is amazing how quickly your taste buds change! But ever since I read that sucralose (splenda) was discovered when some British researchers were looking to develop a pesticide, I knew that it can't be right to add it to my coffee...

Last day: the dress fits and I have abs to show off...

6 weeks are over!!! I don’t know what to say, I am really sad! One thing is certain, I will keep up my workout – I’ll join the next session of Basic Training (starting next week) and I’ll stick with the Bar method at least another couple of weeks. I have no idea how to summarize the last 6 weeks, I don’t know where to start. First of all, I feel amazing! To be honest, I could have lost more weight and look more toned if I’d be a little better with my food choices…I have been really good the first 3 weeks but from then on with stress at work coming up, I made many bad choices (but I really needed them at the time…). I will try to focus on food a little more the next 6 weeks (after all, it’s still one month until the wedding!).


So during the last 6 weeks, I lost 5 pounds. Doesn’t seem to be too much but considering that I have been trying to change my workout and nutrition since January with a total loss of 9 pounds up to date it’s not bad. Slow but steady, that’s the way to go :) I have a lot more space in my jeans now and some of my older clothes that didn’t fit me before now fit again. Priceless! And guess what, I can see my hip bones again - where have you been all those years...? My abs are "incredibly" toned – at least compared to any other time I have known them. I took before and after pictures and I wasn’t sure whether to post them or not… (I am sure my Dad would be embarrassed). But I think the change is obvious and I want to motivate people to start working out. So I posted them....and they are not photo-shopped, I promise! 6 weeks isn't that long, anyone can do it! I am a little embarrassed for the "week 1"-picture, but never mind. It's in the past. But anyway, if you see me next time at bootcamp, at work or somewhere else, just pretend you haven’t seen these pictures, ok…? Thanks ;-)

Not only do I like my body better now, I also feel more confident. And I feel much stronger and athletic. It’s amazing what 6 weeks can do! The Bar Method is a workout I really love meanwhile and most likely I will stick with it since it’s a great workout. I would especially like to thank Julia and Keryun, your classes are for sure my favorite ones and both of you are always so friendly and happy. Thanks!!!

The Basic Training was much more than just a workout for me and I mentioned that many times before. I met so many nice people and all the instructors I have worked with were amazing. They certainly love people and they are passionate about what they do and that makes them good at teaching us. They care for each individual. Even though I was almost always the last/weakest in the group, they made me feel like I can achieve anything and that I am doing a great job (even when I thought I am about to die…). And it’s strange but this feeling transfers in other areas of life, particularly in my job. Suddenly I feel like I can achieve anything as long as I try! And I learned that my body and I are capable to reach much higher goals then I had ever thought. This feeling again is priceless and so much more valuable than a 5 pounds weight loss. I know that many of my friends think I am nuts but I cannot wait to run those hills again and give all I have. I hope that I’ll do better next session, I will push hard. Thank you Jenn, Michael, Charles, Sandra and Eli for the last 6 weeks, and also thank you Lisa for pushing me every single day in through bootcamp. Seeing you transform over the last year is my biggest inspiration and I can’t wait to see you in that dress :)

The 6-week challenge is over, but I will continue my program. May be I will contact a nutritionist, I think there is time for improvement on that level. I will continue writing my blog, but may be only once or twice a week…we shall see. I’ll definitely keep you posted on my progress!

Thanks again to everyone who supported me during the last 6 weeks and to everyone who is reading my blog and interested in my story. This project was so much fun for me and I hope that it was the beginning of a lifestyle-change. And Andrea, as far as your wedding is concerned, I am happy to let you know that I fit in my dress again!! Mission completed! Can’t wait to see you again and be part of your wedding!

Day 40: Right arm lifting with many repeats :)

This morning I went to the Bar method because I had no bootcamp classes left. As much as I love the Bar method, I really prefer doing Bar method in the evening and have bootcamp in the morning. But still it was a good workout.

Today was the last day of the current Basic Training session! It passed so fast, I am almost a little bit sad. But the next session will start in 10 days. Basic Training organized a “happy hour get together” at “Tonic/Russian Hill” tonight – I had such a blast! It was so much fun to see the fellow bootcampers in a different setting. People (including me) look quite different at 6 am in the morning during a workout compared to when they are having drinks at 6 pm... Jenn, Michael, Charles and Sandra were there as well. It was great seeing them outside of the class and to talk to everyone on a more personal level. All the people I have talked to tonight have such an interesting story to tell. Basic Training was just a 6-week-session but tonight it felt like I know these people for a long time. It was the perfect finish for this session and I honestly can’t wait for the next one to start.

The 6-week challenge is almost over – I’ll be rafting this weekend, so there won’t be any more updates for day 41 and 42. But I’ll definitely close this blog with a summary next Monday (and I still need to test if the dress finally fits…). I might give you some before/after information next week as well. Next week will be a recovery week with many bar method classes and I’ll focus more on a healthy nutrition.

As I have learned tonight, my bootcamp instructors read my blog… I guess it is a little bit weird when you read about yourself and your class online…All of you have a different style to make us sweat and bring us back in shape. You all do an amazing job, and even though I never worked out so close to my limit, I never enjoyed working out as much as I did during the last 6 weeks. Many of my friends in Germany ask me why I love San Francisco so much (especially since I was so sure to be back in Europe after 2 years and especially since I always thought America “really wouldn’t be my thing”..) – I think it is mostly the people and friends that you spend your time with that determine your happiness. It’s your best friend, your co-worker that cares, a friendly neighbor, a muni-driver giving you a free bus ticket or people you meet at bootcamp. They’ll cheer for you even if you are racing against them. It is so much more than just a workout. And I also feel like it is so much more than just a job for all the instructors. I’ll stop my little praise here, because after all I want to come back to the next session without being too embarrassed when seeing everyone again (who would have thought that you guys read this…). But I hope it is also nice for you to get a positive feedback and a “thank you” - it is easy to see in all my posts how much I enjoyed the last 6 weeks. I hope there’ll be many more Basic Training sessions to come!!

Day 39: "Running suicides" and many many "burpees"

Basic Training! Today, we worked out with Sandra. There were a couple of moments when I thought I’ll pass out…It was sooo hard! I am not sure if the workout was so much harder than the previous workouts or may be it felt that way because my batteries are empty…probably both! We ran to the old Crissy Field visitor center for our workout. In between all our workouts, we ran loops up the stairs to the presidio bus station and back to the visitor center. We did back rows, exercises for the triceps, “walking monkeys” and “walking alligators” (each monkey and alligator would be offended when they would see us trying to copy their walk…) and walking lunges. In addition, we did some really hard exercises for the gluts and abs, we held planks, and much more.

The hardest part was when we did “suicides” with 4 cones lined up – I kind of got used to them but this time we had to do 10 “burpees” in between each suicide sprint (if you don’t know what “burpees” are, check it on youtube…). That makes a total of 40… and right after that, she send us for another loop up to the bus station…I would have probably sneaked away if she wouldn’t have had my car key…It was really challenging and once again, my shirt was covered in sweat after we were done. No need to mention that even after 6 weeks, I am really having a hard time catching up with everyone, I have no idea how they do it…well I guess they improve from week to week as well, may be I won’t be the last person anymore in the next session with new people joining us ;-) The workout with Sandra was probably one of the hardest ones I have done yet (considering that there weren’t even hills involved!), we worked out every possible muscle group and got a good amount of cardio in. Did I mention that I feel great…?? Thanks Sandra, you really kicked my butt this morning!

Tomorrow morning I won’t be able to go to Basic Training and the next session won’t start before July 5th…I will miss it the next week! I will miss it a lot. And I am already looking forward to July 5th when the next session will start!

39 days down, 3 days to go!

Day 38: Busy day at work and no workout

Today, I had a very busy day at work but everything went really well. I had to give a very important, formal presentation and I was wearing black pants that didn't fit me for 2 years. That felt really good! Unfortunately, I didn't have time for a workout, so I guess today was my day off. I am super-tired and exhausted now, but it was a good day. Really looking forward to tomorrow's bootcamp class!!!

38 days down, only 4 days to go!

Day 37: Why do my muscles never get sore?

Today, we worked out with Michael and Charles. Before we started the workout, Michael asked us if we are sore from yesterday’s run. Everyone said “yes”, I didn’t say anything, because I feel if I say “no” it looks like I am not pushing hard enough... I was really at my limit when we ran those hills yesterday, but no, I am not sore. I said nothing but then he specifically asked me so I said “no”. I know that looks really bad on me. He just said “well, let’s see what we can do for you today!”…I knew it! I don’t know why, but I rarely get sore. I remember my very first week of bootcamp last year, I could barely move, I was in pain all week long. I like the feeling of being sore because it makes you think that you have really worked out hard, but my muscles seem to deal well with all that stress. Or may be I don’t push hard enough, but really in every single workout (including today), my sweat is dripping on the floor and my heartrate is up to 180, I think I do give my best. May be I just have a strange body that is very forgiving? Even after my marathon last year -I felt like I got hit by a bus the next day but my legs weren't sore. Weird, isn’t it?

Anyway, we did an Indian run to the pull-up bars at safeway, we had 2 very ambitious girls in our group that set a fast pace, it was difficult for me to keep up with the group and do the sprints in between…and I think it is almost 0.75 miles to get there. But I did it :) We did push ups, pull ups, tricep dips and bicep curls. And then the hard part started…we had to run around the green area which is 0.75 miles (I think). Coming close to the finish line, I realized that Michael was stopping our time – 6:45 min (I guess that would be approximately 8:50 minutes/mile). We did more push ups, pull ups and all that stuff to then line up for the second run – this time, we knew we would be timed and the task was to be faster than the first time. I ran it in 6:32 min but by then, I felt like I already gave all I had (just for the records, I usually run 10:30 min/mile…). Once again, we did exercises for the arms and the core to then line up a third time…I knew I couldn’t beat my last time…I ran it in 6:42 min and I was really exhausted. We had a minute break and then we had to run back to the parking lot (which is another 0.75 miles….) - so we definitely ran a lot today! But just like every day, I feel so great afterwards and now I wish I would have pushed harder to improve my time…but the moment I ran I was really breathing hard trying to stick with the group, I didn’t feel like I had a lot left in the tank (especially after yesterday’s hill-run…). It felt like torture when we had to do it (especially the moment you realize you will have to do it again…and again…) but you feel unbeatable afterwards :) When we came back to the parking lot, Jenn was there to met the 7 am-group. As I was saying goodbye, she said “Hold on a minute, I got something for you!”. She went to her car and gave me a coupon that she got in her mail – it was a 40% discount for my massage tonight! That was so nice of her to give it to me, made me really happy and speechless!

Got to work, finished my presentation for tomorrow and did a lot of reading. I left early because I wanted to practice my talk. I went to a bar method class in the evening with Kate, it was good. My abs were killing me though. I went to the spa afterwards – the massage was fantastic! I wish I could have one every week…And as I got 40% off the regular price, it really wasn’t too expensive. Unfortunately, I couldn’t shut my brain off and I had to think about my presentation throughout the massage – that wasn’t the purpose. But there was one part in my presentation that I somehow didn't like too much and it bugged me. I changed it as soon as I came home, I think it is much better now :) Now I feel very relaxed, I am actually looking forward to my seminar tomorrow. I feel strong, confident and ready, I know I can do this!

37 days down, 5 days to go – tomorrow will be a busy day at work, so I will make it my resting day for the week….

Day 36: "You can't start a week with quitting!"

I woke up this morning and didn’t feel like working out at all and strongly considered staying in bed…my back was a little sore (probably from all the crunches and upper body workout at the stairs) and my ankle seems to hurt more again these days, especially in the morning. But luckily, it just took another minute and I finally got up to get ready for Basic training. I’ll go with Lisa’s attitude which is “There is no quitting on a Monday! You can’t start the week with quitting.” And she is absolutely right!

Jenn and Michael were our instructors today and we went for a pretty exhausting run in the Presidio. We ran a beautiful trail, passed the golf course and lover’s lane, it almost felt like running hills non-stop – but I really enjoyed the run even though I was sweating like crazy. In between, we took short breaks to do some exercises for the upper body using resistance bands that we carried with us. The group was smaller compared to the last couple of days and most of the people are strong runners as well. As a consequence, I was last throughout the run, but it really didn’t matter. I had a chat with Jenn who joined me at the end of the group. She gave me great advice on how to deal with my sugar cravings, we talked about over-exercising and also about stress relief, healthy snacks, food diaries, general rest and the right amount of sleep. It was really helpful to listen to her point of view. I think that she really cares about the overall well-being of people, not just about a great workout with Basic Training. She made me understand that sometimes, an hour of additional sleep might be more beneficial for you than a double workout and that stress relief and especially identifying sources of stress might be an important step to feel good and to reduce “emotional eating”. It was really very helpful to talk to her. Thanks, Jenn! Taking her advice into account, I canceled my bar method class tonight and practiced my presentation for work instead (which is my major source of stress at the moment). And I booked a massage for tomorrow night. And I had a big tablespoon of chocolate ice cream. Ok, may be the icecream wasn’t her idea…but I feel quite relaxed now ;-)

I had a great day, the run was awesome and my conversation with Jenn was so encouraging. For me, Basic Training is SO much more than just a workout!

36 days down, only 6 days left!

Day 35: A sunny Sunday and a lot of work

I got up early today because I had a lot of work to do but still wanted to squeeze in my workout. I went to Julia's bar method class in the morning, I did well and felt great. On my way home I got a latte, changed my clothes and drove to work for a couple of hours. On my way to work I decided that I deserve a little Sunday treat, so I stopped at "Kara's cupcakes" and got a "key lime pie" cupcake - it was amazing! I worked a couple of hours and stopped at the Lyon Street stairs again on my way home. I ran into my old bootcamp instructor, she was giving a private lesson. She was so happy to see me and gave me a big hug and said "Hey Sue, where have you been, we miss you!". Unfortunately, I am the worst liar you can imagine, so I told her the truth which is that I am working out with Basic Training now. All she said was "Oh". I felt really sorry because I do like her a lot. But she is just not the best coach for me and there is no use lying because sooner or later I will run into her anyway with the new group. And in the end, I have to choose what's best for me and especially if I pay $20 for each class, I want to be in the class that benefits me the most, and that's with Basic Training. But I do feel a little sorry because after all, I started my "bootcamp enthusiasm" with her and I wouldn't be where I am right now if I wouldn't have met her (but to be fair, I also paid a lot of money for it..).

When I came to the stairs, there was a paramedic watching the people. I was wondering whether he's there to re-animate people that get a heat stroke or something when running the stairs in the sun...When I started my workout he smiled at me and I smiled back saying "I might need your help in half an hour!" and he said laughing "That's what I am here for!". I ran the stairs a couple of times and sprinted the hill 3 times as well and always when I finished a run he gave me "thumbs up". It was funny, I guess it was quite entertaining for him. I worked out an hour, doing exercises for the arms and abs in between my runs and sprints, it was fun.

The last week of this challenge starts tomorrow! Next week will be very stressful for me at work so my only goal is to get through it... but I will try to finish strong and make it a good week!

35 days down, 7 days to go! I had so much fun during the last 5 weeks!

Day 34: My favourite Saturday

If you are one of the few people who have read my blog from day 1 on, you probably know what I did today - right, I went for my long Saturday morning run! Strangely, my ankle hurt more again this morning, it felt somewhat stiff the first couple of minutes, but it got better as I continued my run. Ususally, I try to run a different route from week to week but with the half marathon coming up, I have been running the Golden Gate Bridge the last couple of weeks...I started my run at 7 am this morning and I was surprised how windy it was! I love running with a little bit of wind but today it was a little bit too much wind... Passing Crissy Field approaching the Bridge I thought I am barely moving...but coming back was a breeze, I felt like the wind was pushing me all the way :) Fair enough! So I ran to the Bridge again, crossed it, turned around at the Vista Point, continued my run to Fort Mason, passed Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39 and turned around at the Ferry Building. Quite a long run - almost 12 miles. As of now, I am still on a 2:20 h -2:25 h course for my half marathon, I really hope that I'll be a little faster in the race... But at least I lost all my fear from the hills in the Marina, I run them now all the time and I feel fine - I might have to run Clement Street the remaining weeks, this will be hard...

Got home, showered and got ready for another Bar method class. My legs felt really stiff and tired after the long run, the stretching was a blessing, not so much the thigh- and seat workout...My abs hurt quite a bit today, it seems like they actually work as well when I run. Good to know ;-) I'll take it easy for the rest of the day - no work, just relaxing. I am in the mood to cook a nice dinner. I'll have to go to work tomorrow and work on my presentation, so for the rest of the day, it's just "me"-time.

34 days down, only 8 days to go!!

Day 33: Germany vs Serbia and a lot of work

I had to cancel bootcamp this morning because I wanted to watch the world cup soccer game Serbia vs. Germany. I got up at 4 am to meet my German friends at 4.30 am when the game started - crazy! It was nerve-wrecking, I wish I would have stayed in bed and went to bootcamp instead (yes, we lost the game...). Never mind.

I got to work at 7 am, it has been super busy this week. I had to cancel my 5.30 pm bar method class today because of work - I finished my work at 8.30 pm... So no workout today. I am preparing a presentation for next week which is really important for my career and my future at the company, I am REALLY stressed out. Unfortunately, I am an "emotional eater" so I had way too much sugar/sweets today but I don't even feel bad, I needed it. Let's hope that everything will be ok and that my efforts are worth it. I will go for a long run tomorrow early in the morning and then spend the rest of the day at work again. Good times...

31 days dow, 11 days to go!

Day 32: Another bootcamp and bar method class

This morning's workout with Basic Training was mostly targeting the legs. Michael was our instructor, we ran to the little Marina Green carrying a medicine ball and did squats, lunges, shuffle runs, wall jumps, suicide runs, push ups, pull ups, tricep dips and crunches, the full program :) I felt strong and fit this morning, it was good to have a resting day yesterday. Except that I really don't like sprinting in the bumpy grass, I am always scared to twist my ankle again (because that's where I injured it the last time as well). There were quite many holes in the grass where we worked out. My ankle feels fine now but not quite as stable and strong as it was before last week's injury, so I was a little careful not always going 100% (especially if you run backwards not seeing where you ae going...). After this workout, my shirt was definitely covered in sweat, a good feeling at 7 am in the morning!

In the evening, I went to the Bar Method for another class with Julia. I didn't go the last 2 days and I seriously missed it! I really love this workout. What I like even better is the combination of bootcamp and bar method - at least for my body type and personality, they complement each other perfectly on every level. When I left class, I had this weird smile on my face...I don't think I usually smile when I walk back home, but today, I really couldn't get this smile out of my face. Surprisingly many people smiled back at me, probably thinking "what is wrong with this girl...?"...Nothing is wrong, I am simply happy and I love my life in San Francisco!

Tomorrow morning I won't go to Basic Training - Germany is playing (soccer world cup) at 4.30 am in the morning, I can't wait. Go Germany!!!

32 days down, 10 days to go! Heaven knows why but today I had no sugar cravings, yay :)

Day 31: Sugar junkie taking a resting day

Today is officially my resting day!!! It's funny, I got so used to my daily exercise that I really miss it when I am not working out. But I had no problem giving my body a rest today and I feel ready for a challenging bootcamp workout tomorrow morning, I am looking forward to it. To make this rest a good rest, I shared a pizza and a glass of wine with a friend sitting in the sunshine on a patio near the Embarcadero for dinner. Good times and well deserved, I am fully relaxed and recharged now :)

Every afternoon between 2.30 pm and 4 pm, I have terrible sugar cravings. Today it was even worse. I don't know why and I don't know how to get rid of it. I try to eat enough complex carbohydrates and lean protein for breakfast and lunch (but I try to avoid fat and sugar). I am never hungry in the afternoon, but every day my brain is asking for sweets. I feel like a junky. I get nervous and think about sugar. The only thing that prevents me from buying a cookie or M&Ms is my strong determination to finish this challenge or alternatively, a huge amount of work. But sometimes, I have to give in these cravings as well. If anyone has some advice, please let me know. May be I should talk to a nutritionist? I try to eat more fiber and more protein, I always have fruit at my desk (but that doesn't satisfy my sugar cravings). I also avoid artificial sweeteners for a couple of weeks now but that also doesn't help. Sometimes a tablespoon of peanut butter seems to help - may be I need to eat more fat..??? Weird, I think I need an expert's opinion on that!

31 days down, 11 days to go! It was good to take a break today and be out for dinner and drinks.

Day 30: A workout at the beach

Michael and Charles were the instructors for bootcamp this morning. When we dropped our car keys Michael said

“Hey Sue, how are you feeling today?” –
“Good. Fit. Ready to go!” –
“Are you feeling REALLY good this morning?” –

(that’s when I started thinking I should probably pretend that I am not feeling well...)

“Yeah, why….? Well may be not…or may be it will change soon…???” –
With a big smile on his face he said

“It’s week 5 - it’s the hardest!” -
“Oh, can I please have my keys back, because I forgot that…” –
“Nope, you are in.” :)

Hehe. No escape! What better way to reward my 1 month of my fitness-challenge then with a nice workout at the beach?? We split up in 2 groups again and did an “indian run” down to Crissy Field Beach. We did many exercises for the arms/upper body (many push ups!!) and for the abs (planks in all variations), a couple of sprints, mountain climbers and dog sleds, it was a beautiful morning. I personally hate running in the sand, but it makes running on a trail or concrete so much easier. Even though I showered after the workout, I still have sand in my ears, in my car, in my shoes – everywhere. The good news though is that I will survive ;-)

We haven’t been going to Divisadero or the Lyon Street stairs for quite a while and when I saw Charles this morning I was sure that we were due….I don’t know why I fear the stair so much, probably because running hills is the hardest exercise for me. Well, we’ll see what Thursday will bring…

Canceled my bar method class for tonight, just wasn’t in the mood for it. Probably because I went there Saturday, Sunday and Monday… ;-) . As the weather was beautiful when I left work, I decided to stop at the Lyon Street stairs on my way back home to work on my fear from the stairs. I only worked out for half an hour, but it was a good efficient workout. I ran the stairs a couple of times, sprinted to the top of a couple of hills, and I did a some push ups, crunches and stretches. It was really beautiful out there. Many people were working out at the stairs, and I also ran into Michael and Charles – they tried to convince me to join their 6.30 pm Basic Training class... As much as I like them, there is no way that I could do two Basic Training workouts in one day. They probably think I am a little nuts that I work out twice a day anyways. The truth is that they are right. Technically, tomorrow should be my resting day and I know that it really should not work out – I am running the risk to over train. But then it is my only day (besides Saturday) when I can go for a longer run. Hmm, I will decide tomorrow morning. Friday could be my resting day as well ;-)

30 days down, 12 days to go. I am a little worried because I am getting addicted to my workouts :)

Day 29: Running in a parking garage :)

I went to bed last night at 8 pm – that’s crazy! I was so tired from the sailing and I had a sunburn that knocked me out. As a consequence, I woke up at 2.15 am this morning wondering what to do…luckily I managed to fall asleep again after a while.

Monday = Basic Training running day! After last week’s hard run in the Presidio I was curious to see what we will do today. After the warm up, Jenn, Michael and the group ran to Chestnut street where we stopped at a 3-story parking garage…We ran up to the top where we were told to walk back down the stairs to do sprints to the upper deck (running on the car’s track in circles to the top, not the stairs..) that would be timed. Fun! We were told to run the first one with 80% of your maximum power, the second one 90% and the last one 100%...It took me 34 seconds for my first run, 32 sec for the second and 31 sec for the last sprint. We did the three runs back to back, it was exhausting…but it is easy to push yourself if you know it’s only 35 seconds and if you are sprinting with a team :) We then worked out the arms, chest and abs before Jenn announced that we had to do the timed running again…This time it took me 34 sec, 33 sec and 34 sec for the third run…it felt harder the second time. We did more exercises for the triceps and the lower abs before we had to do a final sprint – this time it wasn’t timed anymore and luckily, it was no set of three. It was fun, I never worked out in a parking garage. Mixing it up really makes it so much more fun because it is never boring. Plus, it shows you that no matter where you are, you can ALWAYS get a good workout in!

I went to another bar method class tonight. It wasn’t my best class because I had a headache. Some exercises felt like a hammer in my head, but at the end, I felt better then before the class. So it’s all good :). I guess I am asking my body for a lot these days, I am working out every day and most of the times I even work out twice…After my 6 week challenge, I definitely want to reduce my workout a little but I certainly won’t stop Basic Training and my bar method workout (may be just do a little less…).

I stepped on the scale this morning to get the “4-week-weight”. One month into this challenge, I already dropped 6 pounds! The best thing about it is that I am not depriving myself of any foods, I feel fit and full of energy. Of course, I am more careful with my choices and I try to eat more fruit and vegetables, but also, I eat a cookie or a cupcake every now and then or eat out when I am with friends. I hope my “6-week-challenge” will turn into a real lifestyle-change, I feel really good.

29 days down, 13 days left, so excited to start week 5!

Day 28: Bar method and sailing

I went to Julia’s bar method class this morning, just like the last 4 weeks…my membership for the bar method expires in 2 days…panic!!!! I would have never thought that I like it so much and that it feels so good to stick with it. The second month is still offered to a reduced price (but already $165…), I will do another month. That’s why they offer you the cheap introductory price, it’s a smart move…But I am willing to pay as long as I feel like I benefit from it, so I'll add another 4 weeks.

Today, I went on a 4h sailing-trip to Angel Island and Sausalito with friends – it was a beautiful day. I never sailed in the SF Bay, it was so much fun (I didn’t actually sail, I just watched other people do the work and enjoyed the views). Even though I applied SPF55, I somewhat look like a lobster now… great.

Wow, 4 weeks are over!! And I am still sticking with my workouts. I feel fabulous and I never felt as strong before. And I have never been looking forward to my workouts as much as I do now. I think Basic Training and the bar method are a perfect combination for me, I love it!

As for the next week, I would like to focus on the following things:

- get more sleep

- eat less refined sugar

- drink less coffee (I don't dare to say "no" coffee...)

4 weeks are over!! 28 days down, 14 days to go!

Day 27: Training for the half marathon

Saturday morning = running time! I love love love my Saturday morning runs. Today I had no specific goal other then running a longer distance then last week and of course, "no walking" on hills ;-) I decided to run to the Golden Gate Bridge again in order to get my mind set for the race and train on the actual route that I'll have to run in a couple of weeks. I ran to Crissy field, ran up to the bridge, crossed and turned around at the Vista Point to run back to Fort Point and from there to Crissy Field and Fort Mason to finally run back home. Overall I ran 11.5 miles in 1:55h, that means I am still on a 2:20h course for the race...I hope that I'll be able to shed a couple of minutes off from this time over the next 6 weeks! But overall, I am happy with my run, it was quite windy, very hot and sunny (even though I started running at 7 am...) and I know that physically, I can do the 13.1 miles at this point.

I had 1.5h rest after my run and then went to another Bar method class. I haven't been there since Wednesday, I really missed it. It's not easy after a long run but it feels good - there are only two exercises that really kill me after running a longer distance...Now it's 1 pm and I have all the workout in for the day, feeling good :) For the next 30 minutes, I'll keep my fingers crossed for the US team to beat England and then I'll go outdoors and enjoy the beautiful weather!

27 days down, 15 days to go!

Day 26: Eli is back

Today, we had another workout with Eli and Sandra. It was less “military” style today, it was fun. With the exception of Monday, we didn’t do much running this week (today, we worked out at the little Marina green again) but honestly, that was perfect for me because this way, my ankle had a good chance to recover. It almost feels normal again today, I’m happy. Again, we had a good workout that included pretty much everything – lunges, squats, quite many push ups, crunches, plank, sprints, jumps, and much more. A good total body workout with focus on back and abs (at least I feel them the most…).

I am wearing my black pants today – they didn’t fit me the last 1.5 years! It feels sooo good! The belt very easily knuckled in the 4th hole, it used to be the 3rd a couple of weeks ago. It’s working, I am so excited and even though that might come across a little strange now, I think I am looking pretty good :) Happy Friday!

Only 16 days to go!!