We talk about food a lot – but it’s not all about what you eat – it is also what you do. The ‘balance’ is about incorporating all parts of your lifestyle into a healthy, fit, happy way of life. You do have to be conscientious about what you put into your body, but you also have to learn how and when to move your body to maximize and use the food, ‘fuel’ you put into it. The other part of the balance, as I see it, is the ability to relax and enjoy the things that go on around you. Take time to step back, slow down and breathe.
This post however is about moving. I have worked out consistently for many years. I am by no means an expert and I have always struggled with weight issues while other people can do less than I do and see faster results. I used to let that bother me – but I finally let that part go – I do what I do and my goals are different now than they were when I was 20 or 30 years old. My body has served me well over the last 47 years, through childbirth, weight issues and most recently surgery, and I have to make sure I keep it healthy and fit to be there for me for however long I need it.
My workout routine is pretty straight forward. T-TH-FR, I work out with Ben, my trainer. He pushes me as hard as any of the 20 or 30 year olds he trains. He doesn’t let me get away with anything. I like that – he knows I can do anything he throws at me, (Literally, he throws things at me like weighted balls!) – even when I don’t think I can – and won’t let me give in until I know it too. If you have thought about a trainer, but aren’t sure – here are 10 good reasons to get a personal trainer.
M-W are my cardio days. I like to run on the treadmill, use the elliptical, and now my gym just got spinning bikes! Do I love it? I don’t know yet – it is HARD for sure – but I am sticking with it. I needed a change to my routine for the Summer and this is a good change for me. It has been a couple of weeks and I have gotten better at the form – and I got a gel seat to help cushion my rear end – yeah – get a gel seat or bike pants for sure – you will need them! OUCH!!!
Sat – Sun, I rest my brain and my body. I move – but it is usually more about housework and laundry than running and biking. I have a full time job, plus I help Greg run our SpicesInc company on my off time – so I have to make sure I make time for me.
I read something this weekend called the 23:1 rule. You can work out for 1 hour a day – really hard – push, push, push – but what are you doing with the other 23 hours in the day? It is the other 23 hours that have the bigger affect on your life. Make the workouts count – but use the other 23 hours to eat, sleep, work and be healthy.
How do you use your 23 hours?
Quick breakfast after spinning - Kashi cereal with fresh blueberries!
I leave for vacation in 31 days – so the countdown is on! Have a GREAT day!! 
