Saturday, October 26, 2013

Strong Saturday


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This week I finally started running again!  The weather was too beautiful to stay inside, so I just decided to get out there & do it.  Haha, now I see where Nike gets their motto.  


I used to be a runner, but haven't run in about a year... So I can't wait to get back into it.  While I was looking for running tips, I ran across {The Lady Okie's Blog post on "How to Start Running"}.  Perfect!  Her post really gave me the confidence I needed to find a plan and start running again. I'm easing back into it with the Walk to Run to 5k Method. 

Here's a short rundown:
Week 1: Warm up with a 5 minute walk, alternate 1 min run with 4 min walk for 30 minutes
Week 2: Warm up with 5 minute walk, alternate 2 min run with 3 min walk for 30 minutes
The very last week, Week 10: Warm up with 5 min walk, run for 30 minutes, cool down walk for 5 mins

Each week we'll gain a little more endurance & be running a 5k in no time. Well, just ten short weeks. I'm looking forward to it! I'll be tracking my progress & my runs on Strong Saturdays.  Anyone want to start with me?

Friday, October 25, 2013

I'm an RD!

After 5 1/2 very long years, I can finally say I'm a Registered Dietitian (an RD).  When I say that, most people give me a look and say "uh, what's that?"

We're the nutrition experts who have completed tons of schooling and hands-on experience to be able to finally get that title. There are a few ways to get the credentials, but here's how I did it...

-My degree: 4 years to get a Bachelor's degree in Nutrition (lots of science classes, would you guess that?)
& 1 year to get a Master's degree in Nutrition (not required, but really worth it!)
-My dietetic internship: the process of becoming "matched" with a program to complete 1200 hours of hands-on experience, usually at a hospital or clinics
-Registration exam: The agonizing process of testing to show what you know & pass the test to become a dietitian
-The payoff? Becoming nutrition experts!



The next time you want nutrition advice, ask a Registered Dietitian!

Is anyone else out there in the process of becoming an RD? How far along are you? Look out for my post next week on study tips. I've got some great ones!

Thursday, October 24, 2013

"Try Me" Thursday

I Love My Spark!

Today I'm doing a product review for "Try Me" Thursday!


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I absolutely LOVE Spark. Before Spark, I was obsessed with Crystal Light Wild Strawberry Energy for about 2 years. It has a little caffeine in it, so I loved it. I've completely given up drinking Crystal Light & switched over to Spark. It's that good.

The difference between Spark & other energy drinks is that Spark provides so much energy and focus. NOTEWORTHY: I drank this the morning before I passed my Registered Dietitian Exam.... okay? I needed some focus. It's low-cal {45 cals a packet or scoop} and it doesn't make me shaky like other energy drinks. Also, it's so much better for you than cokes/sodas {none of the crazy additives}.  It's got a little caffeine boost, TONS of B vitamins & never leaves me feeling groggy.  I've even had friends tell me it curbs their appetite.  If you try nothing else from AdvoCare, try Spark!

My favorite flavor is Mango Strawberry. Fruit Punch is shown, but there are several other flavors: Cherry, Grape, Citrus, Pink Lemonade, Mandarin Orange, and Watermelon.  New flavors are added frequently. I can't rave enough about Spark. I've seen recipes for using it to flavor pies & I'm so excited that I will probably make a Mango Strawberry Spark flavored pie. So, watch out for Spark flavored foods in the future!

What's your favorite flavor?

Monday, October 21, 2013

Motivation Monday

It's Motivation Monday and I want to share with you one of my favorite quotes. "A smooth sea never made a skillful sailor." So true! Tough times will mold our character and make us stronger.  This goes for our fitness, nutrition, or weight loss goals too! When they seem out of reach, we overcome the obstacles & build character! 

My goal is to build muscle and tone up through running, yoga, and a little weight lifting.  Since life got busy (doesn't it for everyone?), I haven't been doing anything fitness-related. Running is one of my passions & I know when I begin, it will be easier for me to make excuses.... But a smooth sea never made a skillful sailor, right?

What are you health/nutrition goals? Are there areas you're struggling? 

Good luck!!


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