Adventures in Making it "Fit"

Last night, I finally fit into my "skinny jeans"... totally made my night.

As most of you 30 somethings can attest to it is pretty hard to stay in shape, work full time and try and carry on somewhat of a normal social life (mothers this is probably way more complicated for you for many reasons). I love food. I love wine. Many years ago, I could eat 5 slices of pizza and not gain an ounce. Today, that isn't true...  There are times that I have gotten into a rut and have let myself go. Now, I try to live a philosophy of anything is ok in moderation. I am trying to have a healthy body image, which is something I have struggled with for years.  You would think as you get older it would get easier to accept who you are, how you were built and how you look. It doesn't get easier (many times I catch myself ragging on myself).
I have just tried to accept the fact I am not perfect and this is my body and I want to enjoy my life and have fun. I do everyday, however, think of what I ate (and sometimes feel pretty bad about it) and wonder how I am going to work out during a hectic day. If I don't work out, will I be in the bad mood and beat myself up about it? A constant struggle of my day to day life.

With that being said, I am actutally a person that likes to go to the gym. I know, crazy right? Here are some of my tips to get you to the gym or getting you motivated. All have been probably in every Cosmo magazine for the last 30 years or so, but here is my take.

Find a time you like to work out and schedule it in your calendar days in advance. Sometimes, I will look at the TV schedule (Bravo/E/MTV/VH1) and see when some bad reality show is on which will keep me occupied while I run/walk/ellipitcal.  It does make it so much more bearable.


Always try something new. The other night, I tried a new spin class at my gym. I liked it alot. I always get a little of the first day of school nervousness trying a new class, but once you get through the first one... you are all set!I tried spin at my gym because it was listed as one of the best classes in Boston. Since we don't have a Soul Cycle (btw, Soul Cycle, please come to Boston), I was like maybe this will be the next best thing. It was pretty good and flew by. Music was awesome!

Look for new coupon deals for new classes via Groupon, Gilt, Rue LaLa etc. This how I have gotten the chance to take new and different classes like Yoga, Pilates  Barre and Core Fusion classes. Once you get into it, paying for these classes in advance is a huge motivation to get you there. Who likes to loose money?

Bring a friend. I have encouraged others to come with me to barre classes etc. My theory is if we can go and work out for an hour, we can go out and have and drink after. Quality time, plus working out just makes everyone feel better the next day when you may or may not have a hangover. A little pain before a little guilt.

Load new songs on your iTunes. Right now, I am loving everything from Prince, Justin Timberlake, Alicia Keys and Nicky Minaj. Build yourself a fun workout mix. Do it often. I tend to do this a lot in the summer when I like to run outside. I am that annoying person who sings or raps while running by or next to you on the treadmill.

Go buy nice workout clothes. It is really worth it and will make you feel better about going.


If you have motivators or classes that I should try - please share!