Keep It Simple Workout B
Ok, I know I promised this workout last week but…I forgot. Anyway, here it is – I hope it was worth the wait! This one is a follow-up to my Keep It Simple Workout A, and like that one, I created it based on the workout template in the Women’s Health Big Book of Exercises. I love a simple lifting routine with just a few basic and familiar moves that target multiple muscle groups, and this one fits the bill. Unless you’re new to lifting, you’re probably familiar with all the exercises, but as always I provided links to exercise demonstrations; many of the...
Read MoreKeep It Simple Workout A
I feel like an evil dictator. I keep coming up with workout after workout that I want you to do; meanwhile, I spent my weekend lounging by a hotel pool with no intention of picking up dumbbells for at least another 15 weeks (and counting). Honestly, though, I’m becoming more and more jealous of all you able-bodies ladies out there; knowing my heavy weights are off-limits until August or later is killing me. Of course, that doesn’t mean I can’t pick up some light dumbbells a few times a week between now and my due date, but I’m pretty sure my strength-training days are...
Read MoreLower Body Boredom Buster Workout
I’m kicking off Monday with my first self-designed workout. This one focuses on the lower body, and I call it a “boredom buster” because with only one set of each exercise, there’s no tedious repetition. It’s also relatively short, which is a bonus if you tend to get bored quickly like I do. I did this workout this morning, using lighter weights and skipping the walking lunges (not recommended for pregnancy), and my lower half has been feeling it all day. Try this workout twice per week, taking off at least one day in between. On alternate days, do the upper...
Read MoreAre Protein Supplements Necessary?
One of the most commonly misunderstood aspects of fitness is the role of protein in a nutrition plan. The way many bodybuilders and gym buffs talk about protein, you’d think all you need to do is guzzle a few protein shakes every day and then sit back and watch your muscles grow. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. During a tough workout, your muscles sustain tiny strains and tears. After exercise, your body goes to work repairing that damage, and it’s this process that builds and strengthens muscle. Muscle isn’t built during a workout, but during the...
Read MoreHow I (Finally) Met My Protein Goal
As I mentioned, I’ve been struggling to reach my daily goal of 130+ grams of protein. Yesterday, for the first time in a while, I finally managed to not only meet that goal, but surpass it! I thought I’d let you know what I ate in cause you’re in need of some ideas for protein-rich meals and snacks: Post-workout shake: 1 scoop protein powder with 1 cup skim milk Breakfast: 1 whole-wheat bagel thin topped with 2 poached eggs and salsa Snack: leftover taco soup with a few tortilla chips crushed on top Lunch: 2 oz. tuna with a bit of mayo and 1/2 whole-wheat pita...
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Welcome, I'm Kristen! I'm a 20-something mother of two working to make exercise and healthy eating a simpler and more enjoyable part of life. I love lifting, running, being outdoors and enjoying food in all it's healthy and not-so-healthy forms. I believe that happiness is as essential to 'healthy living' as exercise and vegetables - that's why I never turn down dessert! 
