OK, I get it that this is really silly, but I still wanted to compare my current measurements to those I posted a year ago. Since I didn't make much progress with weight loss or toning in 2012 (long story) I'm pretty sure that these measurements are representative of my pre-tenth-pregnancy size. It's not like I'm going to use these measurements in any meaningful way; it's all in good fun. Here they are:
Weight: 193.6
neck: 13.75 (-.25)
shoulders: 43 (-.5)
bicep: 12 (both sides, no change)
chest: 39.5 (+.5)
bust: 42.25 (+2)
@ braline: 36.5 (+.75)
waist: 36 (+2.75)
@ bellybutton: 38 (+3.75)
low ab: 40.5 (+3.25)
hips: 42.5 (+1.5)
thighs: R- 21; L- 21.25 (-1 each side)
calf: R- 13; L- 13.25 (no change)
No surprise, at five months gone I've gained serious inches throughout my torso. But while I've gained 2 inches of boobs and almost 4 of belly, I've only gained an inch and a half of hips. That tells me I'm not gaining too much butt fat. Also my arms and legs have stayed roughly the same, and I've lost two inches of thigh meat.
Overall, I feel I am taking very good care of myself. Just four-ish months to go!
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Monday, February 25, 2013
Like a Pug
I made it outside for a run today, and I've still got it!
By "it" I do not mean speed, or endurance, or any other markers of athleticism. I was slow, I had to walk about a fourth of each mile, my easy pace kept me in a Zone 2 to 3, and I felt the need to pee pretty much the whole time. No, "it" is something else entirely.
Almost a year ago, I rambled on about whether or not I could consider myself a "real" Runner. Is a 10- or 11-minute-mile really running, or just jogging? The famous Dr. George Sheehan (Never heard of him? Then you're just a jogger.) once said that the difference is a signature on a race application. But was he right? Am I really a runner because I've participated in a few races?
I've decided that the difference is a little more subjective than that; I believe "real" Runners are the ones that get out there and do what they do for the enjoyment of it. Not to lose weight, not to look fab at the reunion, not for any specific benefit or goal that may or may not be attained. And certainly not that every run is pleasurable, because all real Runners know that some runs are absolutely miserable and most are pretty humdrum. Maybe we can't even define what it is we actually like about running. Much like a cherished dog who is so ugly he's cute, we love it "just because" and need no further reason why.
That love, I've decided, is what makes me a Runner. That is the "it" I still have.
By "it" I do not mean speed, or endurance, or any other markers of athleticism. I was slow, I had to walk about a fourth of each mile, my easy pace kept me in a Zone 2 to 3, and I felt the need to pee pretty much the whole time. No, "it" is something else entirely.
Almost a year ago, I rambled on about whether or not I could consider myself a "real" Runner. Is a 10- or 11-minute-mile really running, or just jogging? The famous Dr. George Sheehan (Never heard of him? Then you're just a jogger.) once said that the difference is a signature on a race application. But was he right? Am I really a runner because I've participated in a few races?
I've decided that the difference is a little more subjective than that; I believe "real" Runners are the ones that get out there and do what they do for the enjoyment of it. Not to lose weight, not to look fab at the reunion, not for any specific benefit or goal that may or may not be attained. And certainly not that every run is pleasurable, because all real Runners know that some runs are absolutely miserable and most are pretty humdrum. Maybe we can't even define what it is we actually like about running. Much like a cherished dog who is so ugly he's cute, we love it "just because" and need no further reason why.
 |
| No cute, just pugly. |
That love, I've decided, is what makes me a Runner. That is the "it" I still have.
Sunday, February 24, 2013
February Thaw
We are predicted to get three whole days with no snow and temperatures just around or above freezing.
I know Somebody who is going to put the ice tracks on her shoes and get outside!
I know Somebody who is going to put the ice tracks on her shoes and get outside!
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Prenatal Abs and Core
I've been searching for good core routines that are appropriate in the second half of pregnancy, but not too easy for somebody who is not new to strength training. Apparently, such routines are impossible to find! I'm sure that simply sucking in your tummy while sitting or on all fours would be better than nothing, but just doesn't feel adequate for me.
So, I've been sticking with planks and variations, even though I hate them. They are unbeatable, though, if you are looking to target every muscle in your core! So, take 'em like medicine- not because it's tasty but because it's good for you!
Standard Plank- top of classic push up position. Hold 30 to 60 seconds, rest, repeat for three reps.
Rocking Plank- start in Standard Plank. Slowly rock forward on your hands and toes, then back for a count of one. Do 2 sets of 12 to 15.
Toe Tap Plank- I usually give my shoulders a rest here by going to my elbows. In this modified position tap right toe out to your right side, then left toe out to your left side. That's one. Keep your legs straight; do 2 sets of 12 to 15.
Shoulder Tap Plank- start in Standard Plank. Tap your left shoulder with your right hand, then your right shoulder with your left hand. That's one. Do 2 sets of 12 to 15.
Side Plank- also known as One-Arm Balance. It's a tricky balance pose, I open my feet just a little wider and keep them both on the floor for better stability. In Standard Plank (feet wide) shift your weight to your right arm, lifting your left arm up straight; your feet will also shift so that you are not twisting in your body but hips are facing the same direction as the shoulders. (This lady explains it better than I do, and with pictures of the Pink Panther!) Hold for 30 to 60 seconds, two or three reps each side.
So, there ya go... the ab routine that Baby and I are currentlyenduring enjoying. So far I've had no sign of my abdominal muscles separating so I have no idea if this routine is appropriate if that condition is present. Hopefully I won't have to find out, not for a while at least!
So, I've been sticking with planks and variations, even though I hate them. They are unbeatable, though, if you are looking to target every muscle in your core! So, take 'em like medicine- not because it's tasty but because it's good for you!
Standard Plank- top of classic push up position. Hold 30 to 60 seconds, rest, repeat for three reps.
Rocking Plank- start in Standard Plank. Slowly rock forward on your hands and toes, then back for a count of one. Do 2 sets of 12 to 15.
Toe Tap Plank- I usually give my shoulders a rest here by going to my elbows. In this modified position tap right toe out to your right side, then left toe out to your left side. That's one. Keep your legs straight; do 2 sets of 12 to 15.
Shoulder Tap Plank- start in Standard Plank. Tap your left shoulder with your right hand, then your right shoulder with your left hand. That's one. Do 2 sets of 12 to 15.
Side Plank- also known as One-Arm Balance. It's a tricky balance pose, I open my feet just a little wider and keep them both on the floor for better stability. In Standard Plank (feet wide) shift your weight to your right arm, lifting your left arm up straight; your feet will also shift so that you are not twisting in your body but hips are facing the same direction as the shoulders. (This lady explains it better than I do, and with pictures of the Pink Panther!) Hold for 30 to 60 seconds, two or three reps each side.
So, there ya go... the ab routine that Baby and I are currently
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Little to None, and Little One
Where did my motivation and good intentions go?
I put in 43 miles in January. Granted they were slow, and almost all on the treadmill, but I did them! So far in February- zero.
It is still my intention to put in a few miles every other day. I just need to get back to it.
Baby and I are a little more than halfway through. So far I have gained just about 9 pounds, very respectable, I think! I was able to slim down quite a bit after Lucy was born, and I am hopeful that it will be the same after this one. Just about 4 months to go!
I put in 43 miles in January. Granted they were slow, and almost all on the treadmill, but I did them! So far in February- zero.
It is still my intention to put in a few miles every other day. I just need to get back to it.
Baby and I are a little more than halfway through. So far I have gained just about 9 pounds, very respectable, I think! I was able to slim down quite a bit after Lucy was born, and I am hopeful that it will be the same after this one. Just about 4 months to go!
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