5 Days till 1/2 Marathon!

I'm getting super excited for my 1/2 marathon on Sunday. My parents are also throwing me a graduation party the day before. Hopefully, I won't over indulge before my big run. I've definitely come a long way from my training process. I will admit that I could have had a stricter regiment, but I am definitely signing up for another 1/2 marathon before I do a full. This training has made me want and enjoy running -- something I never thought would happen.

For today, I had a cup of greek yogurt with 1/2 a banana and 2 hard boiled eggs for breakfast. For lunch, I made my own salad: spinach, yellow peppers, tomatoes, sunflower seeds, cranberries, tofu, and balsamic vinagrette. I had a grapefruit for snack as well.

I have definitely improved my endurance for running. I do need to work on strength training. I become easily bored or can't find the motivation. I plan to run 10 miles and do some strength training for today.

Happy Tuesday!

Post Grad Workout

So I have not worked out in 3 days, and I am itching to hit the gym. I've bought a brand new pair of running shoes that can last me 300+ miles! I plan to run 10 miles today and then hit body pump! Wish me luck.

Also, I've also kicked off the day with a super healthy breakfast: Scrambled eggs with yellow peppers, mushrooms, and spinach and greek yogurt with bananas and strawberries.

After work update!

I hit the gym after work and I did a core class. Man, that kicked my butt. I bought a summer student pass near my campus and gym is mainly aimed towards townies. The instructor was older than the instructors at my school's gym, but she was still great! She had a great figure and seemed like took care of her self. I definitely admire that. Her class was tough as well. It was full of planks and crunches. After the core class, I was extremely motivated to run. I would have ran outside, but it's been raining all day. I didn't keep track of how many laps I did, but I ran for an hour and fifteen minutes. I am assuming more than 6 miles. I hope I broke in my new asics!

Here's what they look like:

  This was a well spent investment from my graduation money!

After my run, I ate some sushi at a local Japanese restaurant.

Great day, I'd say!

Why do I run and work out?

Unlike previous semesters, I've made working out a priority. I've also tried to become more cognizant about what I eat. For the past year, my family has had a number of medical issues. A majority of these issues could have prevented through health and diet. In all honesty, it makes me upset that many of America's high cost medical issues like obesity are completely preventable.

I was never a runner. I always envied runners. So, to jump start my adventure on the pavement, I registered for a half marathon. This is one of the best decisions I've made this year and in life in general. This time last year, I would have never imagined running as far and as long as I do now. Every time I run, I try to beat the distance I've done before and it is such a rewarding feeling.

So why do I run? I run for my family members that have gone through medical problems that don't have the ability to run, like my Grandpa and Uncle George. I run for my family members who are still young and hope that they can take after the habits I have acquired in exercise and nutrition like my younger brothers and sister.

This summer I am determined to:

- Cut fast food
- Limit carbs like bread and pasta. If I choose to eat bread and pasta, these items will be gluten free.
- Stop eating out
- Eat more fruits and vegetables
- Increase the amount of protein in my diet
- Walk when I can, instead of driving
- Limit sweets like icecream, cake, donuts, and etc.