Pitfalls of cross training

I love the way cross training helps me take some of the stress of certain parts of my body! But I was a little unprepared for the way it can bring on new stresses to other parts ( head ). I am so used to what kind of a runner I am that it was hard to try something new and not be at the same level. It takes a while to be just as good at swimming or biking as I already was at running, and I'm not used to being a beginner at anything for very long. Just learning how to swim or bike doesn't make you good at it right away, and the fitness level does take time to build up.

Also, getting chased up a hill by a dog when you are at the end of your ride is a little off putting to say the least. I know exactly how to handle those situations when I'm running, but I'm not sure what to do yet while I'm biking. Falling is a major fear for me....

Change Up Consequences

After throwing my body a change up in my workout routine, I have both reaped the benefits and paid the consequences! It felt really good to work hard in a different way than I have been doing for a while. My body responded well, and I think I have found a new activity to enjoy. However, it is not ALL good. In addition to certain muscles being more sore than they have been for quite some time, I learned the hard way that all my ample natural padding in critical areas does not necessarily provide all the protection I need! Back to the store for a few important pieces of clothing for comfort and function.

My world of workouts has been expanded, and I can enjoy the company of family and friends who can't keep up in other workouts. Nice.

Throwing a change up

Took a long hike in the back country today instead of my normal Sunday run. It was great to try out a new trail, and spend some time with my husband ( who does not really like to run ). We went for about 2 hours, and had lots of conversation. While this may not have been my usual routine, I feel like I got a good workout physically and was refreshed emotionally by the change. Throw yourself a change up from time to time and see what happens!

How Hard is too Hard?

After another grueling session at the personal trainer I once again had to "toss my cookies" afterwards. Since I train with my teenage son I have to ask if the workouts are too hard for me or my son. Apparently age and current level of fitness play a large part because my son NEVER has to throw up after a workout, and he does work as hard or harder than I work.

I also "recover" from these episodes much faster than I did when I first started a few months ago, so possibly the end is in sight for them.

Make sure you stay hydrated, and get some energy ( food ) in your body BEFORE your workout. Then make sure you get some recovery protein within about 30 to 45 minutes after the workout.

Maybe working out with someone my age would help.....nahhhh! Grab life by the horns and go for it! Keeps you young.....

Safe 4th of July

Get out and enjoy friends and family on the Fourth! just be sure to be safe. Leave the fireworks to the professionals. Sparklers and poppers can be safe and fun for younger kids. If you need to see the big stuff go to a planned show.

Thank you to all the veterans who make this holiday so special!

Another Summer Risk

Being able to get out and walk, run, bike, skate, etc. is one of my favorite parts of Summer. On my walk yesterday I had the misfortune of disturbing a 3 ft. long Rattle Snake! Although both my dog and I came out of the encounter just fine ( as did the snake ) it could have been a different outcome. It was at that point that I realized I did not even have my cell phone with me. I was on a rather isolated part of the pathway, and help would have been a long way off.

Lesson learned: take a phone, or make sure you are close enough to civilization to get immediate help if you need it!

Get out there and be active: just remember to be safe.....

summer fun

Summer fun brings new risks for kids. Pools and beaches are very dangerous places for anyone who does not know how to swim. It is important that kids are taught to swim, and well supervised anytime they are around water. No one should ever swim alone!

Beaches also bring added dangers like sharks, sting rays, and strong currents. Life jackets are a must on any boat!

Remember sunscreen for everyone!

Get outside and enjoy summer safely....