By Fitness: I have a love/hate relationship with it. And I bet you do, too. If I’m staying active and somewhat in shape, I notice I tend to actually crave working out. What?! Yes, it’s possible! It’s when I get lackadaisical (I’ve never written that word out- is that really how its spelled?!?) that I dread the task of working out. I see it as just that- a task. However, I don’t think I’ve ever ONCE regretted working out. That end result and endorphin rush makes it all worth it.
I’ve said it before but I don’t work out just to stay in shape. Yes that is a huge plus and one of the main reasons why I make it a priority in my life. However, I’ve battled depression and anxiety for quite a large portion of my life (a story for another post that I plan to share soon) so it’s become my go-to for stress relief and mental clarity. Can’t afford therapy? Work out! Stressed? Work out! Feeling sluggish? Work out! Maybe you struggle with anger issues? Work out! It really will benefit so many areas of your life.
I currently work out at Orange Theory Fitness (not sponsored- just obsessed!) – they have locations nationwide so I would HIGHLY suggest giving it a try to see if it’s something you would like. They comp the first session so now you really don’t have an excuse 🙂 In a nutshell- OTF is a one-hour group training workout that keeps you burning calories for up to 36 hours! You rotate between three different stations: treadmill, rowing, and weights. And let me just say, you will get an intense workout every time you go. I leave drenched and feeling like I pushed it to the max every.single.time. With my first two babies, I bounced back to my pre-pregnancy weight pretty quickly (part of it is linked to my genes). But for some reason, Jude gave me a run for my money. I held on to that last 7-8 lbs. for quite a few months until I started working out at OTF. Maybe that’s why I’m so passionate about it- because I know it truly creates results as I saw it work personally in my life.
As far as my intake/food strategy… well, I don’t have one lol. I don’t diet, but I am pretty good about portion control. I personally believe that’s where a lot of people fail. No matter what I’m eating (healthy or not), I always stop when I’m full. And full means full- not overly full 🙂 … I do have a sweet tooth (specifically for ice cream) so I typically indulge in halo top ice cream or fat free/sugar free ice cream bars. You have to pick and choose where you want to indulge.
I’m no expert by any means, but this is what I currently do and what has worked for me. We are all made differently and what works for one might not work for another. I think my biggest encouragement to you would be to stay consistent in whatever healthy habits you are creating. Consistency will create results no doubt!
Athleisure Wear Finds:
This is my favorite tank to work out in! I wear a size 6
Also love this bra that comes in 18 different colors! I wear a size 6
Emma Wanless
August 2, 2017Thanks for sharing this post Mel 🙂 I have also struggled with depression and anxiety and I find that working out is an escape, a place to focus on something positive. I’ve recently been getting into spin classes – I find them so fun! Also love the cute athleisure wear… I find that having cute workout gear to wear gives me a lot more motivation!
Love from Canada,
Emma 🙂
ellabrooksblog
August 2, 2017Hi Emma! I haven’t tried a spin class yet- to be honest, I’m a little nervous because I’ve heard they’re pretty hardcore 😉 Thanks for the love, girl!
Karen
August 5, 2017Great post! Thanks for bringing up mental health and how working out can be one strategy. There is so much stigma and seeing inspiring bloggers like you dealing with real life beyond the perfect images on IG and Facebook make you that much more relatable. Your beauty is inside and out. 🙂
ellabrooksblog
August 7, 2017Means the world- thank you!
Kristy
September 14, 2017OTF is coming to my area and I’m so excited! I’m curious if you mix it up with other things, or if you strictly use OTF multiple times a week? I have been noticing my body changing :-/ and want to make sure I stay on top of being fit. I also struggle with anxiety, and work outs help me so much. Thank you for all you do, xoxo!
ellabrooksblog
September 14, 2017Hi Kristy!
Right now I do strictly OTF. You are going to love it! Stay with it and I promise you’ll see results! XO
Kristy
September 15, 2017Thank you so, so much!!! How many times per week have you found works for you? I can choose 2x per week or unlimited and can’t decide.
Liz
October 31, 2017Hi! I love your Instagram feed…this post is definitely relatable. I have celiac disease that led to a SEVERE magnesium deficiency last year. One of the symptoms of a mag deficiency is anxiety (mine escalated to heart issues and chronic fatigue ?). During this, I found out that over 80% of Americans are magnesium deficient. Taking a magnesium supplement everyday can really help your anxiety too, along with working out. I suggest to away from mag citrate…my favorite mag recommendation is Chelated Magnesium from Country Life (the brand).