Workout log and a little survey…

I’ve been keeping a weekly workout log since start of the New Year to hold myself accountable and actually track my mileage and other workouts.  Here’s what I did this past week:

Week 7 (Feb 18-24):
Feb 18: Lauren Conrad 20×3 workout, 1 mile on the treadmill
Feb 19: rest (just felt tired…)
Feb 20: rest (I was at a college networking & career fair looking for summer interns and didn’t get home until late..)
Feb 21: 40 min, 4.1 mile treadmill routine
Feb 22: Jillian Michaels Kettlebell DVD, 1 mile on treadmill
Feb 23: JM Six Week Six Pack DVD
Feb 24: 45 min, 4.5 mile treadmill routine

I also came across this fitness survey from Lynette’s blog and thought I’d record my thoughts on what kinds of  preferences I have when it comes to workouts/gettin’ fit.  Feel free to answer these, too- I’d love to read about other people’s responses!

1. Fuel

I have to have something in my stomach before I do any kind of cardio/weight training–especially in the morning.  Otherwise, I get all light headed and nauseous.  It’s no fun.  If I do a morning workout, I’m usually ok with a banana and maybe a handful of cereal.  In the evening, I can workout after work and grab a handful of nuts or even workout about a half hour after dinner.

2. Favorite body part to train

Abs.  Although I have yet to see my six pack emerge, I am seeing some definition which is a huge motivator!!  I also like doing arms and legs.  It’s always nice to have those parts toned in time for summer!

3. Workout gear

I just got some new workout gear as a little mid-winter pick me up.  And my monthly clothing budget is a sucker for anything from Target’s Champion line, or when there is a sale at the Nike Outlet store.  I don’t know what it is, but colorful socks, sports bras and headbands get me all giddy!

My usual workout attire usually include capris, a tank or tee, a Champion sports bra (awesome support, by the way), and my favorite ankle socks from Champion along with my Saucony running shoes and my trusty MP3 player (I gave up on Apple when I had issues with my iPod…long story).  Since I do a lot of workouts in my basement at home in the winter, I could get away with wearing my old grungy college soccer t-shirt and shorts since nobody sees me, but I really think that if I dress “nicer,” I tend to get a better workout.  It’s weird, but it works!

4. Sports Drink

Water.  I believe in liquid calories–especially when you are working out!  I might drink some Gatorade or chocolate milk after a really tough/long workout, especially if I am doing a long run.  But other than that, water is the best for me!

5. Time of the day to workout

I couldn’t agree more with Lynette. I’m so bad at morning workouts.  I started to do them earlier this year and it worked for about a month.  I do still do them every once in a while when I know I wont’ be able to get to it at night, but I really prefer nighttime workouts.  AM workouts get me all woozy and tired. So I’d say my best workouts are in the evening, when I’ve gotten a lot of food & water in my system to help my energy level stay up. The best running seems to occur when I’ve got some awesome music lined up on my MP3 player and the Real Housewives or Biggest Loser is on!  I just lose track of time…it’s great!

6. Workout shoe brand

I love my Saucony running shoes.  I got a foot analysis done at a running store when I trained for my first half marathon and Saucony ProGrid shoes were recommended.  I love how they feel and have stuck with them ever since!  I must admit though, I do have a sweet pair of Nikes that I wear for non-running activities…mainly because they are adorable!

7. Post-workout meal

I have read that chocolate milk is a great way to refuel after a tough workout.  And I love anything chocolate, so that’s a win-win for me.  But otherwise, anything with protein and some carbs goes a long way to help me refuel.

8. Rest days: 1x a week, 2x a week, never ever ever, or other?

My goal is to workout at least 5 days per week, so two days off.  Some weeks are more running heavy versus weights/toning, but it all depends on how busy it is at work, if I have after-work events or other social engagements and my general energy level.  (And in the cold Midwest winters, it gets pretty tough since I usually want to hop into my yoga pants and curl up under a blanket, eating chocolate and watching Bravo all night.)

9. Music: Current Playlist

I love peppy, upbeat music.  Right now, I am diggin songs by Usher, JLo (Get on the Floor) and any other popular Top 40 songs.  I also LOVE Pentatonix.  They are fantastic and I sometimes find myself busting a move on the treadmill…not gonna lie!

10. Number one reason for working out

First and foremost: to be healthy.  Plus, being toned/in shape helps with self-confidence.  Who wouldn’t want to look their best?!  Last year, I decided to take charge and join Weight Watchers.  I lost 30 pounds and have kept it off so far.  (For me, it was changing me eating habits that really helped me to lose the weight since I was always very active playing soccer from elementary school through college.) That said, I hope to maintain/not gain weight and continue to build my fitness levels so I can continue to be strong, healthy and happy!

So there you have it!  Happy Sunday and enjoy the Oscar/Academy Awards!  Can’t wait to see what the stars are wearing!

Linking up with Going with the Flow for Fitness Friday (a little late)!