GymShark's Biggest Sale (up to 70% off)

Now I exercise 5-6 times per week, I am always on the hunt for cute workout clothes. Today, I am sharing GymShark's biggest sale (up to 70% off). I love their workout clothes. The sale is live now! Things are selling out quickly. Please keep in mind that only certain styles/colors are part of the promotion. My links will take you directly to eligible items. I just ordered a complete matching set (3 pieces) from the Fleur collection for $31 (was $105)

Baby blue leggings *70% off*
Charcoal sports bra *70% off*
Baby blue long sleeve crop top *70% off*
Dusty pink 1/2 zip pullover *70% off*
Dusty pink tank *70% off*
Light grey sports bra *70% off*
Pink long line sports bra *70% off*
Black & grey leggings *70% off*
Black & grey tank top *70% off

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GymShark's Biggest Sale (up to 70% off)

30-Day Fitness Challenge Results

I mentioned in this post that I participated in a 30-day fitness challenge with a few of my co-workers. Today, I am sharing my results. Here's what I did for 30 days straight (no rest days in between)

The results: At the end of the challenge, I lost almost 3lbs and the BFP (body fat percentage) went down almost 1%. For someone my size, 3 lbs is a lot of weight. Keep in mind that I lost the weight over the course of 30 days. Losing weight wasn't the only goal (although I am happy that I reached my desired weight). I participated in this challenge to push myself and hopefully, working out regularly becomes a habit.

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30-Day Fitness Challenge Results

My fitness journey :: 30-day active challenge

{This is the treadmill I am using - NordicTrack 1650C}

Since summer is right around the corner, I thought I'd talk about my fitness journey and a challenge that I am currently participating. I like staying active but I am not hardcore when it comes to working out. When I was in my 30s, I could eat anything I want without gaining weight. Once I hit 40, it seems like an internal switch has flipped. I gain weight easily and it becomes more challenging to keep the weight off. My metabolism slows down drastically. It may sound depressing but getting old is not fun. I wrote this post in June 2017 talking about my body stats. Since then, I gained about 5 lbs. Now, I completely understand that I am not overweight by any means. As the matter of fact, I am a little bit underweight. Based on the ideal weight calculator, at 5'2", my ideal weight is 115 lbs. I am currently at 108 lbs. I know weight is just a number but it's easier for me to maintain my weight when I am under 105 lbs. I will share my current body stats in a bit. When it comes to weight loss, the key is to adopt a healthy lifestyle that suits your individual needs and that you can maintain for life rather than try to lose weight quickly. Did you know 3500 calories = 1 lbs of fat? In order to lose one pound per week, you need to cut down 500 calories per day. Two basic things I do when it comes to staying fit: counting calories and staying consistent with exercise. My husband got me this treadmill for Christmas and it's been wonderful. If you're interested in a full review, let me know.

Counting calories:
My daily calorie goal is 1500. It's not easy but it's doable. Calories add up fast! I can share what I eat in a day in a separate post if you're interested. There are many free calorie counter apps out there. I use my Fitness Pal to track my daily calorie intake. It's super easy to use. You can log your daily calories intake, your water intake and your daily exercise. While tracking every single calorie is not necessary for me, it's a great way to understand exactly that I am putting in my body. You'll be surprised at the calorie count in some of the most unassuming foods. Did you know a slice of Cheesecake Factory red velvet cheesecake (my favorite) is 1250 calories? Yikes!

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My fitness journey :: 30-day active challenge

The ab challenge's final week

Using an old photo from last summer for motivation =)

It's the final week of the ab challenge, ladies! Hopefully you're seeing some positive effects if you're doing the challenge. Below are some easy yet effective moves for a strong, tight core.

Day 1 and 2: 4 minute burn
Complete one minute of Russian twists, side plank rotations, opposite arm/left lifts and banana rolls

Day 3 and 4: Do two sets of these abs moves

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The ab challenge's final week

Another half marathon in the books

This morning, I joined 18000 runners to run the Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus Half Marathon. It probably is the biggest race in Ohio. It has helped raise millions of dollars for charity. My little girl recently admitted to Nationwide Children's Hospital for a surgery and the staff was absolutely amazing. I was very excited to be a part of it. Seeing these children at each mile marker just put things in perspective. They're fighting everyday just to have what we called a normal life. They are true champions. Sometimes we tend to forget that having healthy child(ren) is the biggest blessing. I am very proud that I got a PR by 10 minutes (that's huge!). To be honest, I was kind of miserable the entire time. It was so cold and windy. I dressed pretty warm at first, then I threw away my sweatshirt and gloves at mile # 3. The wind picked up later and I was freezing the rest of the race. As soon as I crossed the finish line, I grabbed my medal, headed to see my family and went straight home. I didn't care about taking photos or getting the goodie bag because my face and fingers were basically numb. Despite the awful weather, seeing my girls at the finish line made the experience more special and memorable. The question I get asked a lot is that will I ever run a full marathon? The answer is no. It's not because I don't believe in myself, it's because I know I can't commit to the training. Marathon training is intense and a huge time commitment. There is a fine line between enjoying your run and beating yourself up for it. While it would be amazing to run a full marathon, it's just not for me. Will I run another half marathon? Yes, absolutely! If you're interested in knowing more about my training, running gear or anything running-related, let me know. I am more than happy to share the info. Outfit details: 90 degree by reflex *the best leggings* | Reebok half-zip pullover | Mizuno Wave 14 running shoes

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Another half marathon in the books

Affordable workout leggings review

Happy Friday, ladies! Hope your week is going well. Today, I am going to review 2 pair of workout leggings for you. One pair is a keeper and the other one I already sent back. Let's start with the one I love. I stopped by Forever 21 last week to look for some new sport bras. Now that I work out 5 days a week, I'd like to have some extra ones. If you haven't tried Forever 21 sports bras, the quality is actually pretty decent considering how inexpensive they are. While browsing in store, these leggings caught my attention. First of all, the color is absolutely stunning. A few things I keep in mind when shopping for workout clothes. # 1 - I will not buy black workout leggings. They're just too boring. I need something bright and cheerful to motivate me. # 2 - I will not buy printed workout leggings. To me, they look like something strictly for the gym. I wanted something that I can wear outside the gym as well. # 3 - I only buy either workout shorts or full-length leggings. Capri-length does not work for me. As soon as I tried these on, I knew they're coming home with me. These are seamless leggings made from a thick knit material (which I am obsessed with at the moment). They feel so nice and fit extremely well on my body shape. They're high-waisted, keep me supported in all the right places and at 26", the inseam is perfect on me. They're totally squat-proof. Because the color is darker, they hide sweat marks well. I love the ribbed panels along the sides. Wore these leggings to my Orange Theory class and a few girls came up and asked me where I got them from. They're only $14.95. I'd gladly pay double for them. If you're in the market for a new pair of workout leggings, get these. I promise you won't be disappointed. I am patiently waiting for the charcoal one to come back in stock so I can get them too. I also picked up this little cropped top while I was there. Nothing to rave about. I needed a little more coverage at the gym and it does the job. It's cute and functional. Outfit details: Forever 21 leggings *size S* | Forever 21 sports bra | Forever 21 cropped top | Nike sneakers | Stationary bike | Fitbit alta HR

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Affordable workout leggings review

Best seamless leggings for under $20

I hope you all had a great time celebrating Valentine's Day with your loved ones. We unfortunately did not do anything due to the flu. The little one got it first then she passed it to my husband (the worst flu season ever). I've been off from work for a few days to care for them. Thank goodness, they're both on the mend and hopefully, will be back to their normal self by the weekend. Outfit details: Ombre leggings *size S - available in 26 colors* | Sports bra | Nike Pegasus sneaker | Cartier bracelet | Sole SB700 exercise bike

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Best seamless leggings for under $20

OTF 6-week fitness challenge :: Week # 2 & 3

{Forever 21 shorts | Nike sneakers | Fitbit Alta HR}

Ladies, hope your week is going well. I am half way through my 6 week fitness challenge so I thought I'd share some updates/thoughts/tips:
- I've been going to OTF 4 times a week for the past 3 weeks. It's not easy but I do try my best to work out at least 4 times a week. My husband is also doing CycleBar and it's very challenging to find a schedule that works for both of us. That brings me to my next point.
- It's important to find a schedule that works for you and your body. During the second week, I had to take a 5:00 a.m class and a 5:30 p.m class. I didn't do very well during those times. To take a 5:00 a.m class, I have to wake up around 4:15 a.m to get myself ready. I don't care what you do, nobody is ready for an intense workout class at 4:30 in the morning. For the 5:30 p.m class, after a long day at work and stuck in traffic, I didn't do too well either. Weekend classes are best for me.

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OTF 6-week fitness challenge :: Week # 2 & 3

I joined OTF's 6 week fit challenge

I first mentioned Orange Theory Fitness here and am excited (and nervous) to join their 6-week summer fit challenge. Yesterday was my first day and I can't wait to see where it takes me. It was a 3 hour orientation. OTF uses the InBody 770 to measure body composition. The machine gives me a fast and accurate reading of my lean body mass and other valuable measurements. I still have to learn what all those numbers mean and will share with you in a later post. I am thrilled to participate in this challenge and wanted to see if anyone is interested in my progress along the way. Outfit details: Workout set c/o | Nike sneakers | Quay sunglasses

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I joined OTF's 6 week fit challenge

My first impressions of Orange Theory Fitness

 

We booked our summer vacation 2 weeks ago so I need to get busy and tone myself up lol As a full-time working mother of two, it's really hard for me to stick to a workout plan. I love cardio but cardio alone does not build muscle. I know I need strength training but have always been intimidated in the weight room at the gym. When I first heard about Orange Theory Fitness, I thought to myself, it's exactly what I am looking for. Orange Theory Fitness might be old news to some of you but it's relatively new where I live. It's basically a 60-minute class led by an instructor who calls out cures throughout the class. The class splits up into interval cardio on the treadmill, indoor rowing and weigh room floor exercises. The hubs and I had a few hours to ourselves so we decided to take a trial class together. Outfit details: Zaful set - size M *love the top, it's fully lined. However, the bottom is unlined. Wouldn't be an issue with nude undergarment* | Tom Ford sunglasses | Nike Pegasus 32 sneakers | Fitbit Charge

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My first impressions of Orange Theory Fitness

What I Eat In A Day (1500 calories)

Today, I wanted to share what I typically eat in a day. 2 months ago, I started documenting what I eat. My body responds quickly to healthy eating. I lost 5 pounds in 2 weeks (not necessarily a good thing) but I am slowly adjusting to these changes and wanted to share what I eat in a typical day. My food choices are boring and plain for the most part. The biggest thing I changed about my diet is cutting down on refined sugar, carbs and processed food. I used to go to Starbucks 7 times a week (I now cut it down to twice a week). Whenever I order, I ask for half the amount of syrup required in a drink.

My typical day of eating:

Breakfast:
My breakfast usually consists of something quick like oatmeal with whatever toppings I have that day. My favorite brand is Oat Fit by Better Oats. Each pouch contains 100 calories and no sugar added. I usually make it with hot water at work. On the weekend, I sometimes make it with almond milk.

Snack:
I recently discovered Clif dark chocolate and coconut bars and am hooked. They are a bit high in calories but not too bad. I usually just eat half of the bar and save the other half for later. I am definitely a dark chocolate girl. Dark chocolate + coconut = tasty combination!

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What I Eat In A Day (1500 calories)

My 15K and 5 tips for beginning runners

I did it! I ran my very first 15K two weeks ago! That's a 9.3 miles...

When I first started running about 1.5 years ago, I had to stop every quarter mile to breath because I thought I was going to die. I still couldn't believe I completed 9.3 miles without stopping. This was my longest distance to date. Not going to lie, it wasn't easy. After mile # 6, it is really a mind game. I kept telling myself that the finish line was so close and I can do this. The last 3 miles seemed to drag on forever. Many deep thoughts went though my head but I did cross the finish line in 1:51. It took me longer to finish than I expected (1:45) but I didn't care about my pace. I had only one goal for my race and that was to cross the finish line!

{All outfits provided by Kyodan clothing}

With temperatures warming up and if you're thinking about running, I hope you find these tips helpful:

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My 15K and 5 tips for beginning runners

15K Training - Week 5

**All photos were taken with the Canon 6D camera and the Canon 85mm F1.8 lens**

{Outfit provided by Kyodan Clothing | Nike Flex | F21 aviator}

My 15K race is getting closer - that means I have to keep up with my training. Not going to lie - it's tough (especially those weekend long runs). However, things begin to warm up and it does help quite a bit. Running outside and getting fresh air instantly puts me in a better mood. Although the dreaded treadmill did get me through our brutal winter here in the Midwest. Below is the recap of my training (week #5). I ran a total of 16 miles that week. I have 3 weeks left to work up to 9 miles. Yikes! As mentioned regularly, cute workout clothes are definitely a huge inspiration for me. I seriously love all the fun prints and bright colors Kyodan activewear offers this season. You can check out other workout outfits from Kyodan activewear that I have featured here and here.

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15K Training - Week 5

Training for a 15K

This year, I wanted to add more variety to this blog. Even though, fashion is my passion, I do get tired from time to time shooting outfit photos. My husband and I did a few home posts last month and will continue to do so throughout the year. I also wanted to share my fitness routine as well as beauty products and healthy recipes with you guys.

{Leggings | Half-zip top | Sweatshirt | Headband provided by Kyodan Clothing | Running shoes}

Remember I said I was hoping to do a race this year? Guess what? I am officially signed up for a 15K. Yay! I am super nervous about it. I for sure cannot run 9 miles right now but have about 7 weeks to train for it. Knowing I have a race coming up helps keep me focused on my fitness goals because a race is a deadline that can't be moved. I will keep you posted on the progress. It's a huge commitment for me but at the same time, I am excited and feel motivated to start my training.

This is a 15K training plan that I am going to follow for the next 8 weeks via Log Your Run. It's a fact that cute workout clothes make you more motivated to workout - certainly the case for me. I featured Kyodan clothing previously here and their active wear line continues to impress me. Every single piece feels extremely well made. If you're interested in trying their active wear, check out your local TJMaxx or Marshalls.

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Training for a 15K

Get Organized - Weekly meal planning

As mentioned here, one of my 2014 resolutions is to stay healthy and be fit. I am not in any way, shape or form trying to lose weight. My goal is to adopt a healthier lifestyle and become more active. We all know diet and exercise go hand-in-hand. You just simply cannot achieve a healthy lifestyle without personal fitness and nutrition. Three months ago, it was not unusual for us to make 3,4 trips to a local grocery store a week and believe me, it can be frustrating from time to time. Planning is key when it comes to building a healthy diet. I started meal planning recently and wanted to share a few tips.

The benefits of meal planning:
- Less trips to the grocery store (this is a big one for us)
- Eliminate the question "What's for dinner tonight?" 
- Eat out less, eat healthier and eat a variety of meals
- Waste less groceries = save money

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Get Organized - Weekly meal planning

Calvin Klein performance: Work out clothes for women

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. I am excited for the warmer weather we have this week. Running outside is one of the things I look forward to the most. Since my first 10K is less than a month away, I bought myself some new gym gear to keep myself stay motivated. I get the majority of my workout gear from Old Navy/Forever21. Not the best stuff but they do the job. I am always on the lookout for some bright workout pieces and thrilled to add these to my basic black fitness wardrobe.

 

What I am wearing:

Jacket: CK Performance Swerve crop jacket - size XS

Bottom: CK Performance capris - size S
Sneakers: Saucony running shoes
Sunglasses: ZeroUV *old* (similar, similar)

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Calvin Klein performance: Work out clothes for women