Update

Now that I have gotten into my new workout routine, mentioned here, I figured I would give you an update on how it is going and what I have been doing. I have really focused on resistance training for muscle growth and interval runs for cardio, I explain the interval runs here. Here is a sample of my workout week...

Day 1: Chest and Triceps, followed by a 20 minute interval run
Day 2: Legs, followed by a 30 minute medium run or ab workout
Day 3: Back and Biceps, followed by a 20 minute interval run
Day 4: 4 mile timed run, ab workout
Day 5: Shoulders, ab workout, stretching or cross training
Day 6: Long run (up to 6 miles)
Day 7: Rest Day

I have really enjoyed this plan as I change up my routine daily and get to work specific muscle groups. Most of the exercises I do, I complete 3 sets with a high number of reps (12-15). I use dumbells for many exercises instead of machines and am constantly moving from one exercise to the next to keep my heart rate up.

I enjoy the interval runs because they are tough but they don't last long so I don't get as bored. I still have intentions of possibly training for a marathon so I need to keep up my endurance running as well.

Based on your goals, you can alter this routine to fit. Do you want to build more muscle? Incorporate more weight training into your routine, and don't overdo the cardio. Do you want to train for a long distance run? Incorporate more longer runs, instead of the interval runs. Do you want to burn fat? Incorporate more weight and resistance training, and do interval cardio sessions.

I have really enjoyed these past weeks because I have defined a definate plan but I am constantly changing up my exercises to keep my body guessing. What a lot of people don't realize is how important recovery is after a tough workout. More on that soon!

In one week...

A week from today, I am going to start a new workout plan and would LOVE if you would join me. This Friday I  will be taking my second CPA exam and have been studying like a maniac. Unfortunately, because of all my studying I haven't been able to be nearly as active as I would like. Once I take this test, and have a relaxing weekend with some of my favorite people canoeing and camping (pictures next week), I am starting fresh.

I would really like to incorporate more weight lifting and resistance training into my workout as I am constantly reading about the benefits of this type of training, especially for women. Many women believe that weight lifting will cause us to become bulky rather than slim us down. Well ladies, our bodies are built differently than guys and we simply do not have the same amount of testosterone (Hallelujah!) as men which contributes men's bodies becoming bulky.

I am going to lift/resistance train 4 times a week, and do cardio/cross train the other days. In addition I want to make sure I get to enjoy the beautiful summer weather and get active throughout the day. I will be looking forward to some bike rides, kayaking, and swimming in the lake.

Maybe you want to reinvigorate your routine or motivate yourself, this a great opportunity for us to work together. We can share exercises and help each other stay motivated. I have tons of resources that provide great exercises and I can't wait to utilize them. SO if YOU want to start fresh, take this last week to outline your personal goals, research exercies and nutrition plans, and talk to me about what you want to accomplish.