Hey guys! How’s your week been? I’m super glad the weekend is here because I’ve got a lot of fun stuff going on.
A few weeks back during Adventurous April, I mentioned I signed up for a food styling and photography course. Well the workshop is tomorrow and I couldn’t be more excited. I’m not exactly sure what we’ll be learning, but will fill you in with all details after the event.
Copyright Dario Milano @ Food Pixels
Apart from that I’ll be going to Costco (yes I find that place exciting. The thrill of buying in bulk obviously runs in the family), catching up on work for university, and working on my fitness!
I have been a bit quiet on the fitness front, and for that I apologise. So let me fill you in on what’s been happening. At the beginning of the year I started doing Jamie Eason’s LiveFit Trainer, which I absolutely loved. For the most part. I have always enjoyed lifting weights, and loved the variety that the program offered. I made it through phase 1 and 2 with no problems, but had to take more rest than suggested because my body seemed to need extra time to recover. Subsequently it has taken more than the advertised 12 weeks!
I was excited when I finally hit phase 3, the home stretch of the program. Four weeks to the finish line. I dove straight into the intense circuit style training, but found my energy began to wane as the week went on. By the time week 11 rolled around I was spent. Instead of looking forward to going to the gym, I started to resent my workouts.
So what did I do?
I stopped.
It wasn’t fun anymore, and I didn’t see the point in continuing if I wasn’t enjoying it. More than that, my body was exhausted. I was feeling sore, tired, and cranky, which are classic symptoms of overtraining. So I listened to my body and stopped the program.
And you know what? It felt liberating. After a week of rest I felt energetic, and refreshed. Some may say I ‘gave up’, but I’m actually really proud of the decision I made. The old me would have beaten myself up for not pushing through, but the new me is like ‘Yay for listening to your body!’
I was doing the LiveFit trainer for myself, and I didn’t have anything to prove. I think the program is great, and I have definitely gained some muscle and strength over the last few months. However, it was obvious towards the end that my body just needed a break. So I listened. Instead of going to the gym, I went for walks around my neighbourhood, did some light Pilates at home, or went to yoga on the weekend.
After about of week of light exercise, I started to think about a new fitness adventure to keep my body and mind enticed. I searched around for a few different things in my area, and finally stumbled upon Crossfit Bondi. To be honest, I’ve always been intrigued by Crossfit and their training philosophy. I figured I had nothing to lose, so decided to call up and give it a try!
This past week I’ve done the intro session as well as one WOD (workout of the day). The workouts are short and intense, but everything can be scaled to your ability level. What I loved most was the supportive atmosphere of the group. Everyone encouraged you to push through til the end, which can really help when you are feeling the burn of those last few burpees!
I can honestly say that I’m hooked already and hope to continue my training with Crossfit Bondi. The workouts are fun, the trainers are very knowledgeable, and the people are so friendly! If you have ever thought about trying Crossfit, I encourage you give it a go. Be prepared to work hard, but also reap the fitness, health, and friendly rewards!
Congrats on getting that far in the LiveFit program though! I am tempted to try it but I like the variety in my weekly workouts right now. I’m only in the gym 2-3 times a week and I like that! So that’s why I’ve resisted it. But 11 weeks is super awesome Sarah, as is quitting when it wasn’t fun anymore. Working out is always best when it’s fun!
So true Anna. Since cutting down on my workouts my body actually feels stronger! I think sticking to 4 workouts per week is best for me
Good for you! Your body spoke and you heard it, and took it’s advice.
Thanks April!
I had a moment like that myself this week. Your post was timely for me.
I definitely think it’s a good idea to give yourself a break from the gym now and then. The most important thing is to stay active in a way that is exciting to you in the moment. Sometimes I love my time at the gym and sometimes I’d rather just go for a long walk with my dog. I think that both workout options are valid. Congrats on trying Crossfit. That sounds fun! Also, I think it’s super cool that you’re taking a food photography workshop. I would love to attend one myself someday. Have fun!
Thanks! yeah i agree about variety in workouts…it’s the key to maintaining motivation. Will give an update on the photo course soon
I’ve heard a lot of good things about crossfit but I’m addicted to martial arts.
Oh wow, how long you been doing that for?
I just started LiveFit as well (though I haven’t made it public yet so you’re the first to know
) so I’m still in Phase-1. I’m liking it so far because I no longer have to go to the gym at a specific time to attend group classes! Juggling with time used to be so stressful before…. Anyway, listening to our body and not overly stressing out is really important for me as well especially because of my eating disorder. I’m glad you’re doing what your body and mind can both be happy with!!
Hey girl! so glad to hear from you…how is everything going? You will love the Livefit program…it’s so nice to not have to think about what you’ll be doing on the day. Just print the guide and go
There have been ups and downs with my eating disorder recovery, but I want to stay positive because I really do feel that I am actually ready to get better now
Sounds like you’ve been pretty busy though…hope you’re taking care of yourself too! 
oh i can’t wait to hear about your photo class. LOVE TO TAKE ONE!! And crossfit, you are gonna love it too!
It’s good that you knew when to stop. I LOVE crossfit! I’ve been crossfitting for almost 4 months now and I really do find the results to be amazing. I’m glad someone else has stumbled upon crossfit, but be careful to not get too addicted!
Haha yes I will be…I’m still going to keep up with other exercise that is less intense. I still love my yoga and pilates
Always listen to yourself first…you did good : )
I just joined crossfit a couple of weeks ago too- and I love it so far! I’m going to blog about it soon
good luck and let me know how you like it!
OOOOoooo fun (and sore) times ahead!