Strength Training, Cross Training, and Snow Running Oh My

One of the goals I have for 2013 is to add strength training as well as cross training in addition to my running.

Strength Training
I know myself well enough to know that if I don't do this in a group setting, where I am held accountable by others, I likely won't do it at all.  This is where my neighbor Brenda and Pure Barre come into play.  Brenda had posted about a studio coming to our area on her Facebook page.  I was very intriqued so I asked her for more information.  I made the commitment to join Brenda to see what is was all about.  This past Friday I stepped way out of my comfort zone and took my first Pure Barre class with Brenda by my side.  At first I was incredibly intimated and questioned my ability to complete the class but five minutes into the class I was loving it.  According to the website, Pure Barre lifts your seat, tones your thighs, abs and arms and burns fat in record breaking time. Clients see results in just 10 classes, lose inches in weeks and have fun doing it!  I have to tell you that description is 100% accurate.  I can't wait to go back and do the workout again!  I was a bit concerned that I wouldn't be able to move come Saturday morning when I had a hard time walking up my steps just 90 minutes after class had ended!

Getting our "tuck" on at Pure Barre Westlake

Cross Training
I was pleasantly surprised Saturday morning when I realized I could in fact move!  I headed to the YMCA for my planned 5 mile pace run on the indoor track.  I had noticed on the Saturday schedule that there was a spinning class as well.  I decided if I felt good after my run that I would check out the class.  I figured it would be perfect cross training!  I am so glad I decided to give it a try.  The instructor was great and he played fantastic music.  I am definitely doing this Saturday  morning workout combination more often!!

Feel the burn

Snow Running
Imagine my surprise when I woke up Sunday morning to major arm and ab muscle soreness.  I suppose that saying about "if you think it hurts today, just wait until tomorrow" is accurate.  I headed out into the cold and met up with Missi for a long run.  Missi had an hour on her plan and I was hoping for 9 miles so I figured I would run the first hour with her and then head out for the final 3 solo.  As we were getting ready to finish the first hour Missi asked me if I was going to run all 9.  I told her I really wanted to and she said she completely understood achieving your anticipated goal.  She even encouraged me to get back out there and do it.  We parted ways after 6 miles and I headed back out on my own with a promise to text her when I had finished.  Safety first!!

The gorgeous trail we ran on Sunday

In the end it was a fantastic weekend of workouts.  I had to shake my head this morning when I sneezed and my abs were screaming at me.  I guess the Pure Barre class paired with holding my abs in yesterday to stay upright on the trail really caught up with me.  I am loving it though!  Here's to more fun workouts this week!!

Keep running, you're simply the best, and you inspire me!!