Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Wicked Wednesday

So far this week has been solid. I feel like I have made more progress in the last 2 weeks than I have in a long time. Today was one of those days where I felt good from the start of the workout to the end. Even after two days of intense workouts, my legs felt fresh, my mind was focused, and I was ready to conquer the world. I started off the day with this "warm-up."


If you can't read it, the mileage reads 3.1 and the time is 16:10. I have never been that quick to finish a 5k on an elliptical, and when I was approaching that time, I has to get a picture. The best part is, I feel like I could have done better. I followed this up with another 7.1 miles, coming in at, for you math majors, 10.2 miles. I always try to put in solid mileage on Wednesdays, so I was happy. I feel like Wednesday is a good day for this, as you have two days to "recover" before the long run/workout on Saturday.

Speaking of recovering, I got a new thing of protein powder from Sam's Club. I've been trying all kinds because I am not entirely convinced that they are all that different from each other. I just think the key is the protein content and the taste. Maybe I am wrong about this. Have any of you had different feelings? Anyways, here is a picture of the massive bag I purchased (so far it is pretty good. Good protein content too):


I do believe, however, that protein has definitely helped me improve and recover after each workout. Partially this might be mental, but everything I have read supports the idea. Do you all agree?

The rest of the week has been solid. I've done my usual lifting routine in the time that I have. I have done some extra core work, too. Yesterday, despite working 13 hours, was a success; I got up in the morning, did 7 miles on the cross ramp, and hit my arms and shoulders. I think this set me up to have the energy to get through the rest of the day. Still, the morning thing can be rough, especially when the gym is as dead as it was:


I like having people around now that I am confident in my appearance. I think having people around, especially people who are good looking and in shape, motivate me to the max.

Would like am empty gym or a medium crowd (no one likes it crowded)?

Do you feel confident at the gym? Have you always?

Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

13 comments:

  1. I would like an empty gym! Unless it was full of my friends. I do NOT feel confident at the gym. I need to take a tour with someone who knows how to do more than curls and read the directions on the weight machines. Nice mileage! So how do you take your protein powder? I use it in my oatmeal and in baking sometimes. I have gotten different brands, but only vanilla flavor. Is that chocolate? How is it?

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    1. Yeah, I often feel like a good trainer would help me tremendously, but that doesn't work on a teacher's salary. I already have a hard enough time justifying the cost of my races. I do, however, watch the trainers and what they do when they are training or working out themselves.

      I just put two scoops of powder in milk, mix it, and I enjoy it. Some brands taste better than others though. I have thought about putting some in my morning oatmeal too. Using it in pancakes has crossed my mind too, but I need eat pancakes. Chocolate is great though; it definitely covers up the protein taste. On a side note: I cannot stand protein bars.

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  2. Great workouts! I can't imagine working 13 hours and then moving anywhere except the couch and to the fridge. ha!

    The first few times in a gym was absolutely terrifying for me!
    Now though, I'm comfortable.
    There are days where I want it all to myself..and days where I like having people around because it helps motivate me to get going.

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    1. Oh, there is no way I would have made it to the gym after working 13 hours, so that is why I went in the morning. I certainly have my limits!

      Well, stay confident! You have earned it.

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  3. Thanks for stopping by my blog! You'll do great on your 20 miler! Mine will be in 2 weeks or so. Crossing my fingers it won't be terrible lol.
    As for protein drinks, not a fan. But I'm picky about taste, and I have yet to find a protein drink that tastes good!

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    1. Jamie, what do you use to get your protein and to recover from run to run or workout to workout?

      No problem about stopping by. I loved the blog. Keep it up.

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  4. Great workout despite the long working hours. -I like using protein also. -There are days when I like it when the gym is empty and then I have my moods when I like the gym to have a little bit of crowd for motivation. Obviously not too big of a crowd. I hate when all the machines are being used and I have to wait. lol

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    1. Yeah, I hate when something is in use, but I never wait. I just find something else to do (I have a certain allowance of time everyday). It is no good though because I always go in with a plan of what, when and how I want to do things, and changing my plan probably results in a less effective workout.

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  5. I have to say that I would actually prefer a semi-empty gym. There are a lot of meatheads at my gym that walk around and socialize and it drives me nuts! I just want to get my workout done and get out of there!

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  6. P.S. if the flights aren't too expensive, Flying Pig might be on the calendar.

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    1. I do see a lot of socializing. I always wonder how they all know each other. I just get my job done and go.

      Oh, you gotta get your flight on. Atlanta to Cinci is usually pretty cheap. Could also try to fly into Dayton. Where would you fly from?

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  7. great job on that elliptical workout! :)

    and YES to protein for recovery and rebuilding muscle. actually the 30mins after you finish your workout is the KEY time to get in carbs/protein as it will boost recovery by 60%. :)

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  8. For sure. I have heard 30 minutes to an hour, but I try to keep my intake to that first 30 minutes. I take a multivitamin and fish oil with my protein shake. Not that I am a pro at my diet, but I think I should talk about this more. I have read a lot about this, and I am curious was other tricks people use.

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