It’s crazy how a little motivation from others can pick you up and send you running towards the gym. I didn’t plan on working out today. I planned on laying around watching Netflix, and having coffee with my mom, while diving into bags of popcorn! (Yes, plural) But then I started browsing my Instagram feed; it was flooded with photos of healthy foods, people working out, and other motivational pictures. That reminded me that this trip doesn’t mean “vacation from training” and I really should start focussing on my half marathon more. I have had some road blocks with my runner’s knee, achilles tendonitis, clumsy jams, and blisters that have discouraged me, but I know I’m tougher than that and will get through it! I love to run, I just need to focus more on the goal. Even though I’m going to be away from Detroit for a while, I need to find the time to train every single day! After that rush of motivation, I got dressed and headed down to my parent’s little fitness room.
Sometimes running the same speed over and over again gets boring. I wanted to change things up today and run different paces every couple of minutes. This also brings your heart rate up and down which burns more calories. I ended up burning 310 calories during this workout.
After getting off the treadmill, I took a three minute break and chugged a liter of water. I had a water baby after. My dog is gross, but I’m sure you dog owners can relate when it comes to dogs and their sweat fetish.
I’m not the best looking after a workout, but who really is? Sweaty, no make up, no summer tan, sweaty hair….okay that’s sexy! After taking my little break and water refuel, I did a twenty minute strength training workout! These are my favorite workouts from Jillian Michaels and Insanity. The more strength training I do, the less pains I get in my knee or ankle! My legs are a lot bigger (muscular) and I’m happy about that! I had to toss my skinny jeans out because I’m officially a solid size 4 🙂
Spin class is my favorite too, but I won’t be at the gym for a while, so I’ll have to fit in workouts wherever I go!
My dog has a hard time letting me workout. He thinks I’m playing! I usually have a spray bottle of water when I’m doing my workout videos and he leaves me alone! I don’t even have to spray him, I just lift it and he runs away. He knows what that means!
After my workout, I took a quick shower and then got some fuel in me! It’s important to feed the body so it can repair!
I had a cookies and cream Quest bar with a cup of fresh blueberries!
I love the quest bars because they are high fiber, high protein, and low sugar!
And then I had a bowl of yogurt, Chex cereal, and an apple!
Now that my workout is complete, I can hop on the couch, watch Netflix and dive into those bags of popcorn!
What should I watch on Netflix? I need a new binge show!
Rebecca says
Thank you so much for sharing! I ran my first half marathon last October, and struggled with sore knees and a major twisted ankle. Your posts always encourage me to continue to work out, eat healthy and have fun while doing it!!
As for binge watching Netflix, I am HORRIBLE at it! I love murder/mystery shows and just finished all the seasons of Law & Order SVU and CSI: NY. I’m now watching White Collar… Mainly for Matt Bomer 😉
I hope you have a good weekend and continue working hard. You’re an inspiration for all of us!
Taralynn McNitt says
Those sound like great binge shows to me! Law & Order <3
So comforting to hear that you CAN complete a half even with some set backs! Thanks for the encouragement as well! Are you going to do another!?
Rebecca says
I would LOVE to do another! I’m running a 10K in April and will probably start looking around for another half after that! I know that I will never do a full, though. I don’t think my body could take it! haha
Taralynn McNitt says
The mind is powerful 🙂 If you want to do a full, I bet you could!
Corinna says
I recommend Scandal or Revenge!
Taralynn McNitt says
I haven’t seen Scandal yet. I couldn’t get into it, but only watched one episode! I’ll give it another try because I keep hearing it’s amazing. Oh and I LOVE REVENGE!
Melissa says
Trust me you will love it!!! Its worth giving it another try…you will thank me later.
Maggie says
You will LOVE scandal!!! It took me a couple of episodes but it my favorite show to date now!
Julie Cioffi says
Thanks for your post! Today I started feeling pain in my knee while running, and am hoping this isn’t a long battle with runners knee. What have you done to help it? I’ve been icing it through out the day! I just hope it heals so I can continue training for a 25k 🙂
Also– I watched the series friends with benefits… It’s good, cheesy but it was a guilty easier show I watched the series so fast. Only one season on netflix!
Taralynn McNitt says
I have done a lot! I actually took 3 months last year off from running when it was bad and stuck to strength training, yoga, and swimming! My friend, Courtney (runandbehappy.com) gave me a great IT Band workout that helped! I’ll see if she’ll post it! I also iced it, wrapped it, elevated it and made sure to slowly increase my miles when I started running again! 🙂
Rebecca says
When I had trouble with my knee last year, I took Aleve once a day (my doctor recommended it) because it helped with the inflammation that was causing the pain. I also did a lot of strength exercises, stretching and stationary bike workouts to help strengthen those muscles and also give them a break!
Alison @ Daily Moves and Grooves says
These look like awesome workouts! I’m currently taking it easy on my workouts and focusing on bodyweight strength exercises, so the second workout fits the bill 🙂
I’ve yet to try Quest bars yet, but they look delicious, especially the Cookies and Cream one!
PS: I just discovered yesterday that you branched off to Simply, Taralynn from Undressed Skeleton, and I’m really loving the new site 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you so much!
I love strength training! This one is perfect when you don’t have a gym or much time! & I just tried Quest bars a couple months ago for the first time and immediately got hooked! I just ordered the double chocolate chip today! 🙂
Bailey says
I love all your different meal ideas and workouts! Thank you for continuing to blog and for being an inspiration. As for the netflix ideas, as others have said revenge is a good one and pretty little liars, Greek, Sherlock, big bang theory (I’m not sure if that is on netflix or not)and oh so many more I just can’t think of anymore right now.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you!:)
Love revenge, ppl and bbt! Haven’t seen Greek or Sherlock yet! I’ll have to look into those!:)
Gulreen says
Breaking Bad or Gossip Girl- lol two totally different genres but both still great! 😀
Taralynn McNitt says
Love both!!:)
Hannah Wilson says
Orange is the New Black is FABULOUS. And mega points to Netflix because since it is a Netflix original series, they will air Season 2 in its entirety on June 6th so i can binge watch it all the second it comes out! lol
Taralynn McNitt says
Omg! I cannot wait for it to come back! I binged watched it too! I love love love it!
Michelle says
I’m just wondering how the watch thing works? do you have to manually put it in or does it calculate it for you?? 😛 THANKS 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
You just put the monitor strap around your chest and it keeps track of your heart rate, calories, and time!:)
Michelle says
WOW.. that’s so cool 🙂 would you be able to tell me where i can purchase one of those? 😛
P.s.
Thank you for posting these types of posts 🙂 I’ve been trying to eat healthier exercise regularly and you’ve been inspiring me to work harder! After I saw this post, i got off my computer and exercised!
THANKS 🙂
Kelsey says
Okay #1 so thank you for putting up a treadmill workout I can keep up with I had knee surgery last march and it is hard for me to run at 8.0 and above! #2 Awesome workout ideas, my husband is coming home from deployment and we are going to be on vaca for like 2 weeks so def needed this! and #3 Dexter is amazingggg!!! I’m super addicted.. Also, bc I love ridiculous drama shows, Gossip Girl was great too.
Love the new website.
Taralynn McNitt says
Oh boy! Take it easy on that knee. I bet you are super excited for your husband to come home! I can’t imagine how hard it is. My brother is getting deployed in July.
I have only seen a couple episodes of Dexter, so maybe I should start it back up on Netflix! I heard it’s pretty good. Oh, and I am a HUGE GG addict. #teamblair! 🙂
xo
Shannon says
Dexter is amazing up until the series finale. I was so let down. It was complete bullshit. Complete! The series up until that point is cinematic gold.
Dale says
Going through my instragram and pinterest homepages always get me to the gym even when I don’t wanna go!
As for netflix…Grey’s Anatomy!
Taralynn McNitt says
Crazy how that happens! I purposely follow fitness accounts for that! Gotta love em:)
I didn’t even know Grey’s was on Netflix! This makes me so happy! <3 Dr. McDreamy!
Shannon says
So many good shows on now! I know it’s not a “girly” show but The Walking Dead is my FAVORITE show on TV. Watch two episodes and try to look away. I also am a huge fan of The Office but I don’t know if you’d honestly like it. If you want the crime type thing, try Bones. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol is it one of those bloody shows? I keep hearing about it and the main actress what on Kelly & Michael the other day! I watched all of the Office. I was obsessed! Thanks for the suggestions! 🙂
Shannon says
The Office is brilliant and I love you a bit more for loving The Office. Good taste! Haha.
The Walking Dead is seen as “bloody”, I guess, in the first couple episodes but it goes into a huge story line involving the people not the “walkers” (aka Zombies). It’s brilliantly executed and written. Plus it’s filmed here in Georgia, Atl area.
You should get your boyfriend to watch it with you. I guarantee he would love it. I didn’t want to watch it at first but I got completely drawn in. I hate horror/action/man-shows but this really is a EVERYONE show. It’s ratings are through the roof. You’ll have to trust me on this. lol. Let us know what you think if you do watch it. 🙂
Diana says
What exercises helped the most in getting bigger legs? And how often do you do strength training? Thank you always for amazing posts 😉
Taralynn McNitt says
The spin classes have been doing it for me and increasing my protein intake! I strength train at least three times a week! 🙂
Kelsey says
I’m training for a 10k and am having major issues with my arches! I have flat feet and am over-pronated– so it’s starting to hurt so bad, that I’ve been focusing on strength training instead (even though my new asics are helping a little!)
I recommend Ugly Betty!! It looks like we watch the same shows and this show had me addicted from the first episode 🙂 Also,
Taralynn McNitt says
I thought I had watched everything on Netflix and apparently not! I can’t wait to watch all of these shows! How is the strength training helping your progress? If you are looking for some running advice, my friend, courtney (runandbehappy.com) is the running pro and always gives great advice!
Natalie Potter says
I did the treadmill workout. I always mix up intervals on the treadmill, but it gets mentally boring when I have to come up with them myself. So thanks, this was perfect & fun!
One question- did you mix up incline as well?
Also, neat blog change! Very explorable!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you! I usually change up the incline once the workout gets too easy for me! If you feel like you need a push, incline during the slower speeds:)
so glad you like the change! change is good 😉
Katey says
Your website is looking fab now! I follow your Instagram, Tumblr and Pinterest, very motivational – your posts always inspire me to eat right and move more.
Please could you tell us where your workout top is from? I’d love some brighter workout gear to keep me motivated!
Thanks xxx
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you so much! I just upgraded my host package so it should be a lot faster within a couple of days! So glad my posts help you!
I got the top at the Nike Outlet! It’s just a dry fit:) You could check online for them!:)
Julie says
Great post! I am starting to train for a half and have been getting ankle pain with the longer runs; great to know that the strength training has been helping your pain. How often do you run a week versus cross training?? Some schedules only suggest running 3 times other have up to 5 or 6.
Also would definitely recommend Scandal, SO GOOD!
Taralynn McNitt says
I run a lot more in the summer because it’s outside and do a lot more strength training in the winter because I’m not a huge fan of the treadmill. I try to alternate when it comes to strength training and running and do the every other day thing. Now that I am training, I am using a Hal Higdons half marathon plan which has a lot of running! You can google his plans to find one. I listen to my body a lot too. If i’m too sore to run, i’ll do something else instead! I hope your ankle gets better!
XO
Amanda says
Lie to Me, Prison Break, Breaking Bad, LOST, and Bates Motel. I think people named a couple of those, but those shows are all of my favorites 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
OMG, I binge watched Prison Break for days! Love me some Michael 🙂
Kelly says
I love Vampire Diaries, I have been totally addicted to that show lately!
Taralynn McNitt says
I watched all of season one and loved it! I want to get back into it because Shaun Sipos joined the cast! I love him 🙂
Erin says
Cute site. It looks a lot more streamlined. You’re making progress! I’m debating whether or not to sign up for a half in April. I had knee issues, too, when I was training for a marathon. Strength training has cured all of my ailments, but it’s just been a matter of figuring out where the pain is stemming from so I know which muscles to strengthen! Good luck, and post lots of race day photos.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you!!:)
Finding out where the pain is coming from can be a pain in the butt! I had issues with that a few years ago and just decided to strengthen everything! Hopefully those pains don’t discourage you and you sign up for that half! Stay positive 🙂 xo
katherine says
i just recently started running, well half running and half walking lol and i want to know how long it took you to finally be able to run so many miles without getting over tired and out of breath? i really want to run daily, but i dont know how much to push myself, if i do it too hard, i feel nauseas, and i dont want to go too slow either. so how do you prepare your body to become a regular runner?
Taralynn McNitt says
It wasn’t easy and when you quit running, it takes a while to build your stamina back up! The best advice someone gave me is to stop focusing on the time and speed and conquer running for 30 minutes without stopping before worrying about miles/speed and after you conquer the thirty minutes, focus on the other details! You’re doing it right! I started walk/run first too! You’ll get there, just don’t rush into it or you’ll get injured:)
Liz says
Can’t wait to try this strength workout after my run tomorrow! Love the site- I was obsessed with your old one, and I can’t wait to follow you here! You are my favorite blogger 😀
I adore Parks and Rec- that show always leaves me smiling!
Taralynn McNitt says
I love doing it after a run! I think you’ll like it too! And favorite blogger? WOOHOO! Thank you! 🙂 All smiles:D:D:D
Ellesse says
Grumples is all up in yor biz~ haha!
Taralynn McNitt says
Haha he just can’t get enough:)
Katlyn says
I love reading your blog and find you super inspirational. I’m currently trying to get back in shape after a while of not exercising and then one day realized how bad it had really gotten. But any way Thank you for the inspiration!
p.s. The League on Netflix is one of the funniest shows I’ve ever watched great for binge watching.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hey, we all fall off the wagon, but the good part is we know how to pick ourselves back up! It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it!
Alysha @ Love, Alysha says
I totally agree about running at the same speed on the treadmill! I just recently started experimenting with intervals and it makes the time (and the miles) go by so much faster!
Taralynn McNitt says
Yeah, I did that this morning and the time flew by! It also helps me get my endurance up!
Lauren says
I agree with whoever said Ugly Betty is good! I am currantly re-watching Dawson’s Creek. I am just cool like that, what can I say. Don’t Trust the B—- in Apt 23 is hilarious too. Even my boyfriend likes that one! You look so cute even covered in dog spit! 😉
Taralynn McNitt says
Hahaha we have the same T.V. show preference! Have you seen New Girl? That’s a good one to watch with the boyfriend!
Abby King says
I’ve watched all the seasons of Vampire Diaries and loveddd it! I’m rewatching them now :p (embarrassing but whatev it’s a great show!)
just started watching parks and rec, hilarious! New Girl is always great too!
ps as to bloggers, i love http://creaturecomfortsblog.com/ wonderful creativity, and design. also loves her pup 🙂 the photos are wonderful and inspiring to me too!
i just read your “about me” section. I was in shock about the contact lens story! as well as the boyfriend abuse. So wonderful that in that time you turned to Christ and the church. we don’t always know why things happen but we know that God is there and he cares. in all these stories he was using you as an example and now you are encouraging and loving others in your kind words and loving manners.
Lamentations 3:26 it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.
blessings taralynn!
Abby
Taralynn McNitt says
I need to catch up on the lastest seasons. I stopped watching after the first, but binge watched the first season two years ago. I’m so mad that Ian isn’t Christian Grey! And i am OBSESSED with New Girl! I find myself cracking up when I’m by myself. It’s pathetic, but o well!
Sometimes things happen to us that turn us into better people. As unfortunate as they can be, they’re meant to happen. Thanks for everything! xo
Michela Bosio says
I recently just ran a half marathon and the feeling of finally accomplishing something that you worked so hard for is AMAZING! My goal is now to run a full marathon. Once I actually started to enjoy running, I couldn’t stop myself! So on that note, keep working hard Taralynn and thank you for inspiring others! I also would recommend One Tree Hill as a binge show on netflix!
Caroline says
Law and Order SVU marathons are like my favorite post run chill out! That, and some yogurt and granola, and I also like to stretch for a good 30 minutes when I start an episode. It’s sort of become a ritual and has helped me stay on track. I’m doing my 2nd half on a few weeks after FINALLY doing one in November 2013! 2012 I failed but after trying again and succeeding it brought me to another level with running. Your blog helped me through that first failure back in 2012 and I LOVE reading your entries. Keep doing what you do girl 🙂
Kelsey K says
I haven’t worked out as much as I am use to, with being a full time student/full time working, moving states, etc. (I used to go to the gym 7 times a week for spin class/Pilates/plyometrics/weights/yoga/etc.) However, I decided to do both your above workouts yesterday! What a great workout! My legs are on fire today! Too bad I have to wear high heels tonight! Thanks for posting them, I probably break them up next week with my other workouts. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
That is great to hear! So GLAD they worked out for you! I go through phases of working out and not working out depending on how busy I am, just try to get back into it if it makes you feel better! Seven times a week is a lot!
Jamie says
The wrist calorie counter that you have there, what is it and is it pretty accurate? I was looking into the fit bit but there are so many bad and god reviews that I am not sure about it anymore.
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s the polar watch and it’s pretty accurate! It’s a great heart rate monitor!
Brooke says
I know this is from a while back but I’m just discovering this website and I love it! But I was wondering which polar watch you are using. I’ve been working out a lot lately with Insanity and as soon as I move into my new apartment I’ll have free access to weights and a treadmill. I have been looking into the polar watches but I am unsure which one to get! Help?
Jordan says
1.) You are ADORABLE and I read your blog while at work (shh… don’t tell) in order to motivate me to go to the gym afterwards! I am SO glad I stumbled upon your original tumblr a few short months ago.
2.) I did the above treadmill workout yesterday A.M & it wore me out! LOVED it.
3.) As for netflix binge watching shows (i.e my professional hobby): The Following, Scandal and House of Cards are three favorites but if you are in for a HILARIOUS sitcom I would watch The League. It is absolutely hysterical (a bit raunchy.. would not advise watching it with your elders)
Stay fierce, girlfrand.
Taralynn McNitt says
I’ll never tell 😉
Nice job on the treadmill workout! Thanks for the Netflix rec:) xo
Mira says
I just love that you are so excited about being a size four and having to toss your skinny jeans. I’m trying to lose weight, but more than that I really want to have some solid leg muscles and some nice toned arms going on. 🙂
Stephanie says
Wow, your post fuel food looks delicious. I’ve never heard of Quest Bars but I definitely need to try them!!
P.S. Dexter is an awesome show, I love it!
Meg says
Chuck is the best! Currently binge-ing on it! I don’t know where I was when it was on-air! 🙂
Heather says
What type of treadmill do you own? What do you think the best at home treadmill brand is? Thanks for the help on fitness!
Linsey says
Where do you get the watch that you currently have and what all does it do for you during your workouts? I’ve been wanting to get a watch to use when I run, and I’m still trying to find the right one for me.
kel says
kick ass!
renne says
You are so inspiring. I need to follow your plans before vacation. I want to be confident in a swim suit.
trena says
I can’t run over five minutes. any tips?
cally says
I love these posts. Keep em coming!
gilina says
I wish I could run