Mother Monster

She is everywhere lately. Is anyone else listening to Lady Gaga's new album on repeat like me (especially at the gym!)?

Switching It Up

On Sunday night, I made the impulsive decision to join a group of bloggers who are calling themselves the "shred crew" and motivating one another to complete Jillian Michaels' 30 day shred workout every day for, you guessed it, a month. I snatched up the DVD on Amazon before I could give myself time to change my mind (and for the super cheap sale price of $7.99)!

Well, it finally arrived this afternoon and I'm about to do day 1 of the level 1 workout. I've never watched the Biggest Loser and I don't know much about Jillian's style, but the reviews were all fantastic. People are really seeing results with this routine, which is very encouraging. While I don't think I'll be one of those people who drops 20 pounds in 30 days (let's be realistic here), I'm all about switching my workouts up as much as possible to keep my body guessing and working extra hard. For a complete list of bloggers involved in the challenge or if you're interested in jumping on board, click here. Wish me luck!

Shopping Flop

My shopping trip yesterday was fun, but totally unproductive. I went to lots of stores, but only left with this hot class bra from lululemon. I fell in love with the flashback pullover (which looked much cuter in person) but they didn't have it in my size. I feel like this is happening more and more at lululemon. To top it off, it's sold out online too. I'm going to check out a few of the stores when I'm home later this week. I'm looking forward to my long getaway weekend and hopefully some warmer weather!

At least Monday is finally over!

Crickets

That's about the only sound I heard at the gym 6:58 am. It was almost relaxing.

My Happy Place {Lately}

I've been getting incredible, noticeable results in just a few pilates classes! I think it's my new favorite workout. And to think it all started by purchasing a Groupon.

More proof that it pays to take a step outside your comfort zone.

Contemplating Classes

I've been perusing my gym's group class offerings to try and switch up my routine a little. Is it just me, or are all of the fun/productive classes offered during the week while I'm at work? I think I'm going to try zumba toning tomorrow morning. Seems like a fun way to kick off my Sunday!

Do you have a favorite group class?

Mama Said, Mama Said

Mama said there'd be days like this, there'd be days like this my mama said.

Today was one of those days. Nothing seemed to go quite right. Usually the gym is my best bet to shrug off any stress from the day, but I was beyond exhausted when I left the office at 7. Sometimes, when I have a hectic day, it helps me to come home and do something mindless and routine, like laundry. It's oddly calming, the sorting and swapping and folding. Plus, it's productive (and fresh laundry smells good). A few other things that made my day just a little bit more bearable: my boyfriend doing most of the prep work for dinner, discovering these ruffled pants at lululemon, and finally downloading the Hipstamatic app on my iPhone (I'm still figuring out how to use it!). Another bonus? Friday is so close!

What do you do to bounce back from a rough day?

Confession

Sometimes, a cute coordinating outfit is all it takes to get me to the gym.
Shallow? Maybe. Productive? Indeed!

lululemon faded zap jacket
Nike free trainers

Spiny Activewear

This amazing yoga tank has been on my mind since I discovered it in my inbox this morning (thanks Daily Candy!). I love its slouchy, relaxed shape and eerie spine print. I think it would serve as a constant reminder for me to sit up straight and maintain good posture, plus I have an affinity for racerback styles (they make shoulders look so strong). I've never seen anything like it and it's taking quite a bit of willpower not to click "proceed to checkout."

What do you think? Is it worth the splurge?

Help! Need New Tunes

Since I've been spending so much time at the gym lately, I've really been getting a lot of use out of my ipod. The problem is, I seldom stray from the few playlists I have with upbeat tempos (perfect for working out). In other words, I'm in a total music rut. It's boring, blah, and just plain lame. I need your help! What are your favorite motivational workout tunes? I'm not overly picky, just looking for fast-paced songs to keep me going. Feel free to suggest more than one song (or album).

I'm looking forward to hearing your recommendations!

Calling All Princesses

My friend Karen informed me that there exists a magical athletic event specifically for princesses. Yes, that's right, Disney (who else?!) hosts an annual Princess Half Marathon and Fit for a Princess expo. I seriously can't believe I've only come across this event today. Is it sad that it takes a princess theme to get me thinking about training for a half marathon? Don't answer that. Anyway, since I've been on such a health kick lately, I'm seriously considering signing up for this event, which is taking place next February. That means I have at least 8 months to get myself in gear and train for said race.

Imagine being cheered on by all of the Disney characters and running through the Magic Kingdom! Sounds like fun to me! The best part of the whole thing is planning what to wear for the actual race. Check out the photo gallery from the previous race to get some inspiration. I doubt this is the place for the Ariel costume I never had. Maybe Snow White would be a safer bet!

Let's dust off those glass running shoes and get busy!

Run, Forrest

I'm not the type of person who needs to know all of the features of a running shoe, such as the sole has compressed air that helps cushion the foot or gel beads massage the arch and achilles. That's all nonsense to me. I can tell whether or not I want a shoe within the first minute of putting it on. Enter Nike's Air Max+ 2009. It is seriously like walking on a cloud (or what I imagine that would feel like). I know a lot of people are not big Nike fans, but I've always had luck with their running shoes and cross trainers. The minute I slipped this on, I felt like I was wearing a cushiony, supportive slipper. I was ready to go! I just have to decide on a. the color and b. if the $160 price tag is justifiable. I'm partial to the neon orange. Surprising, no?!

Thoughts?