Help Me Pick a Fitness Goal

on June 14, 2010
in All Posts

Morning!

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I made myself and Konner (our friend’s 4 year-old, they are staying with us until Wednesday) oatmeal!  I think he liked it. 🙂

 

My bowl:

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Which contained:

 

  • 1/2 cup oatmeal
  • 1/2 cup rice milk
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 sliced banana
  • Toppings:  blueberries, peanuts, and brown sugar

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Help Me Pick a Fitness Goal!

 

Even though I love to do running races, cycling events, and even triathlons, I’m not currently training for anything.  This is pretty unusual for me!  But it’s also necessary because my life is so hectic right now – I wouldn’t want to commit to a BIG training schedule, like for a half marathon or more. 

 

But I’m getting so bored not having a GOAL to work towards!  I’ve been keeping up a nice exercise schedule, but I feel like I’m lacking direction.  Even if it’s a small goal, I really want to be working towards something.

 

Thoughts:

 

  • It can’t be a huge time commitment – a max of 1 hour a day, 4 times a week.
  • I need to be able to do it from the comforts of my home or while traveling.  I don’t belong to a gym!
  • I’d like to make my running faster… my pace has dropped lately because I haven’t been doing speedwork!
  • I actually like exercise videos – once I did a 30 Day Shred Challenge that I loved!
  • I’d like to tone up and get stronger.
  • I could sign up for a 5K without feeling too  much ‘training pressure.’

 

What fitness challenges are you working towards? Do you have any ideas for me?

{ 134 comments }

 

  • Christina June 14, 2010, 9:07 am

    Why not do a challenge month of yoga?

    Accomplishes: toning, relaxation (lots of stress in your life right now with moving, etc), and it’s easy to do at home (or anywhere, really!).

  • Freya @ Brit Chick Runs June 14, 2010, 9:09 am

    Maybe you could take up a new sport, and your goal could just be to get better at it!?
    My goal – a marathon! Training starts next week I think…eek!!

  • Samantha Angela @ Bikini Birthday June 14, 2010, 9:11 am

    What about tabata training?

    http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/moms-drop-pounds-with-a-four-minute-workout/article1419091/

  • Grapeful June 14, 2010, 9:11 am

    Hey Caitlin,

    I saw this story and thought you might appreciate it:

    http://www.yesandyes.org/2010/06/true-story-ive-lost-60-pounds-ive-got.html

    The picture of the scale especially reminds me of Operation Beautiful.

  • Lauren (Clean Eats in the Dirty South) June 14, 2010, 9:11 am

    If you want something to do in your home, maybe try a new DVD. Like INSANITY! i heard it’s supa intense and i’ve always wanted to try it but i dont have the balls.
    my goal is to start training for my first race 🙂 I’m going to do a 10k this september!

    • Emily June 14, 2010, 1:48 pm

      Insanity is ridic but such a good workout! The workouts are only around 40 minutes, but every day. It’ll help with your speed though, you don’t need any equipment or a whole ton of space 🙂 I definitely recommend it!

  • Jessica @ How Sweet June 14, 2010, 9:15 am

    What about some speed training with plyos and functional work? That is my favorite workout!

  • sarah June 14, 2010, 9:15 am

    I am a big proponent of doing track speed workouts. Mile repeats, 800s, ladders – it adds a totally new dimension to your running. Maybe find a high school track near your new place, commit to weekly track sets, then find a 5K to dominate?

  • Chelsea June 14, 2010, 9:17 am

    How about a 5k in 22 minutes or less. That works on speed and would require alot of interval training which would help you to tone up, and wont take as much time. You also need plenty of rest in between interval days so 4 days a week would work. Since it requires less running time, you caould also incorporate non-weight bearing toning moves and continue the push up challenge. 30 minutes of running, 20 minutes of tone work and 10 minutes of streching. Then a pick a 5k in your new home town for September!

  • Skinny Sushi June 14, 2010, 9:17 am

    How about P90X? I have the Power 90 videos, and the set gives you a lot of options… yoga, cardio, strength…

  • Diana (Mymarblerye) June 14, 2010, 9:19 am

    i just told my bf to dl (UM…i know it’s not legal) insanity for me!

  • Sabrina June 14, 2010, 9:20 am

    I’ve tried insanity and it is sooo hard! You think you’re in shape until you try that one. The fit test video is even hard and thats not even the full workout!!!

  • Jen June 14, 2010, 9:21 am

    Sounds like you want to get speedier! Doing 1 interval run and 1 tempo run (warm up for 1 mi, run hard for 2-5 mi, cooldown 1 mi) per week REALLY helped my race times. You can pretty much do those workouts anywhere. Then just sign up for a 5k in a month or two and see if it helped. Though it is kind of hard to PR in the summer.

    I did my first tri yesterday and now have the tri bug. I really need to improve my swim and transition times so that’s my new goal.

  • Evan Thomas June 14, 2010, 9:24 am

    You could rock a 1:50 half!

  • Therese June 14, 2010, 9:25 am

    I agree with some of the other posts about something similar to 30 Day Shred like Insanity or P90X? They’re made for cardio, strength and butt-kicking and you can do it all from home?

  • Megan June 14, 2010, 9:27 am

    I think 4 hours a week is PLENTY to PR in a 5k or even a 10k, especially if you get rid of “junk” miles. do one longer run per week (6 miles or so), one tempo or steady state run, one speedwork(intervals) day, and either a cross training/lifting day or an easy run on the fourth day. for the non-long run days, you probably could easily fit some core work and/or lifting/stretching after you finish.

    BUT if you’re doing quick runs, you need to make sure they’re actually quick enough–I think sometimes women get a little wimpy w/ speed work (I guess it’s the same as when they lift 5 lb weights–which i’m SO guilty of)

    Use Mcmillan running calculator to punch in your goal 5K time, and use that to determine the appropriate paces!

  • Nicole @ Geek Turned Athlete June 14, 2010, 9:27 am

    Wow. I totally know how it feels to not have direction. I’m not one to work out when I don’t have a race that I’m training for. I would definitely sign up for a 10K for you. I think you will get bored with a 5K. Runners World Smart Coach has great programs for 10K that are individualized for YOU based on your current pace. They have helped my speed considerably! Good luck, chica!

  • Madeline - Greens and Jeans June 14, 2010, 9:28 am

    I’m a big fan of two of Jillian’s other videos, No More Trouble Zones and Banish Fat Boost Metabolism (lame names, I know). I have noticed a huge difference in my speed just by adding one day a week of speed workouts on the treadmill. A fartlek or tempo workout a week can definitely help make you a speedier runner!

  • Britt June 14, 2010, 9:28 am

    I don’t know how you feel about DVDs…but I am just starting INSANITY and it is CRAZY! I love it because I can do it before work in the morning in the comfort of my own home! It pushes you beyond anything you have ever done before!

  • Rachel @ Suburban Yogini June 14, 2010, 9:29 am

    Yoga 5 times a week (or 4 if that suits). There are some fantastic online classes out there which mean you can mix the sequences up a lot more than a DVD (although the new Shiva Rea DVD is interactive I believe, I haven’t watched it yet!)

    Or, ages ago I remember you writing about how you don’t focus that much on your breath in yoga (if that wasn’t you I apologise in advance!). So how about something like, doing a yoga practice four times a week and committing to focus on the breath. That will help maintain and improve cardiovascular fitness also 🙂

    • allie June 14, 2010, 10:31 am

      I agree… it looks like your workout schedule is nothing but cardio, why not put in something different? There is a fantastic website called yogaglo.com where you pay $18 per month for good, high quality yoga videos. It’s great for people who want a strong practice but don’t want to pay studio prices. I recently joined and have been telling all my students about it!

  • kalli@fitandfortysomething June 14, 2010, 9:29 am

    this is a great question caitlin! i am currently somewhat goal less except i am working with a trainer and getting more toned and more muscles…..so i guess that is a goal i am working on right now…..why don’t you do that? it may be easier with all the moving and what not about to happen in your life!

  • Brie @ Brie Fit June 14, 2010, 9:35 am

    Haha, I think you should do Couch to 5K with James!

  • Marilou @ Mostly Healthy June 14, 2010, 9:35 am

    I was working toward my goal of running my first 5k, before I injured myself 🙁

    Why not a swimming goal? I know you don’t want to go to a gym, but maybe you have alternatives for this?

  • Jason @ Cant-Coach-Desire June 14, 2010, 9:35 am

    Give an adventure race a try. Sort like a tri, but without the pressure.

    http://www.trifind.com/gs_adventures/AdventureRaces.html?state=nc

    Either that or pick a Duathlon to race hard to combine your love for cycling & running?

    First, marathon this fall, training starts 07/01. Was going for a BQ first time out. However, just thinking I need to focus on finishing more than anything.

  • AllieNic (Frisky Lemon) June 14, 2010, 9:36 am

    What about getting into some kind of Crossfit training? I started working out the crossfit way about a 6 weeks ago and my results have been amazing! For the first time ever I feel like I’m actually seeing changes in not only my body composition, by my confidence as well– getting through some of the workouts take a lot of dedication, but I’ve found if I believe in myself, I’m always impressed and proud at the end of a workout. I’ve even decreased my average “leisure run” mile time by about 30 seconds to a minute…

    Most of the metabolic conditioning workouts take less than 15 minutes to do, but they are SUPER intense and you really feel like you’re getting the most out of your workout. AND you can do a lot of them in your own backyard.

    I would check out http://www.crossfit.com, http://www.crossfitendurance.com and http://theclothesmakethegirl.blogspot.com/search/label/backyard%20workout (The Clothes Make the Girl is a great blog by an awesome lady who does most of her working out in her own backyard!)

    • Wendy June 14, 2010, 10:17 am

      I think I’m going to try Crossfit this week! I’m so excited!

      • AllieNic (Frisky Lemon) June 14, 2010, 10:48 am

        YAY! Let me know how you like it! Are you doing it on your own? Or going to an affiliate gym?

        • Wendy June 14, 2010, 3:59 pm

          A friend of mine who is currently doing crossfit is supposed to be setting up a meeting with a local trainer that she knows. I’d love to go to an affiliate gym, but the closest one is 45+ minutes away!

    • Angela June 14, 2010, 12:59 pm

      I do crossfit on my own also, amazing workout! I second this idea. For me, the goal aspect of it was working up to completed most of the workouts on the website without modifications!

  • Lindsay @ The Ketchup Diaries June 14, 2010, 9:38 am

    I like Jess’ idea of plyometrics. I bet you could find a great workout online and the explosiveness of it will definitely help you run faster.

  • Erin @ A Girl & Her Mutt June 14, 2010, 9:43 am

    I think the 5k is a great idea. Something you know you can do easily and you train for it all the time anyway. No pressure in a really busy time. Moving is the ultimate stress.

  • Laine @ Beets, Butter & Moutaintops June 14, 2010, 9:43 am

    I’m working on getting up into handstand, gracefully and with ease. And on forearm balance.

    You could set a yoga goal like that.

  • Shannon @ Before Sunrise June 14, 2010, 9:45 am

    Try Insanity! I’ve heard great things and plan on trying it when I am done with P90X!

  • Carla June 14, 2010, 9:45 am

    I would also suggest Insanity, it is a KILLER workout. Plus after only one week I felt a noticeable difference in speed when I ran!

  • Lindsay @ Summit Sandwiches June 14, 2010, 9:46 am

    I’m starting marathon training tomorrow, so that’ll be a rather large endeavor! I just wrapped a two month training hiatus period, and I tried to focus on building up my strength during that time. Maybe you could try to commit to a month of yoga? Or try to PR for a 5K? Or both? 🙂

  • Paige (Running Around Normal) June 14, 2010, 9:47 am

    I looooved the ChaLEAN Extreme videos for toning up and getting stronger. It’s only three days a week for about 30 minutes, so you could definitely squeeze cardio in there, too.

  • Juli D. June 14, 2010, 9:49 am

    A 5K seems like it would meet most of those needs (you’d need to do speedwork runs, you could do it while you travel, etc.) For toning up strength, you could try the 100 Pushup Challenge and/or 200 Squat Challenge or just aim to do 1-2 days of strength training a week in addition to training for the 5K.

  • A from Despues I Do June 14, 2010, 9:54 am

    How about a sprint tri? Or Insanity? I’ve heard it’s, uh, insane. 🙂

  • Chrissy (The New Me) June 14, 2010, 10:00 am

    A new 5K PR! Speed training in the summer is DEFINITELY a challenge!

  • Dena Semkowski June 14, 2010, 10:06 am

    Caitlin I think you should try those Insanity videos that have been around the blog world! It’d be a completely different goal from what you are used to, and it’s right from the comforts of your home! I’d love to follow you along that journey, or anything you so choose! 🙂

  • Heather @ Side of Sneakers June 14, 2010, 10:06 am

    A 5K could definitely be a good way to focus on speed! I’m working on upper body strength b/c of a knee injury- my poor arms have been neglected from running!

  • Beth @ DiningAndDishing June 14, 2010, 10:08 am

    I’d love to see your take on the 30 day shred challenge! I love that video but have never done it for 30 days straight. It would be interesting to see the “before” and “after” results!

    • caitlin June 14, 2010, 12:55 pm

      check out that link in the post – tons of good info!

  • Heather (Heather's Dish) June 14, 2010, 10:12 am

    what if you did something like the zumba dvds or a 30-day yoga thing? i think that would fun and something significantly different than what you’ve been doing 🙂 i know you’ll be amazing at whatever challenge you DO go with!

  • Nicki June 14, 2010, 10:13 am

    I am working on a year round goal of a race a month. Finally found a race or two for August – wanted it late in the month so I could have a bit of rest after June (a 20K this weekend) and July (15K on the 11th).

    Why not try a 5K with a PR as a goal? Or try finding a running club that does track workouts and win a few of those – even if they do not matter?

  • Nicole Y. @ An Adventurous life June 14, 2010, 10:16 am

    I agree that a 5k would be a good solution! You can work on your speed and you’ve got a goal to focus on.
    Race entries are the ONLY fitness related expense that I’m allowing myself to spend money on in the next 6 months or so. I’ve got great running shoes, a new road bike/helmet and I absolutely hate working out in gyms. My road bike gets good use but I’ve kind of fallen off of the running wagon lately so my goal is to sign up for a 5k and work my way back to where I used to be (as far as speed and stamina!), then I’m looking for a metric century! 🙂
    Good luck!

  • Andrea June 14, 2010, 10:18 am

    Caitlin:
    I say do Gina’s (Fitnessista’s) Summer Shape Up workout. I am starting week 4 this week and feel awesome but I know she has all the weeks still posted so you can start from week 1. I have been able to do the exercises at home with hand weights, a resistance band, a yoga mat, and a chair. It will keep you occupied for a month. 😉

  • Laura June 14, 2010, 10:22 am

    You already said it yourself: you want to tone up and speed up, 😛
    For speeding up you could start doing interval running sessions. These last for max 30 min and you do high (short extreme burst) and/or low (longer less extreme bursts) intensity intervals.
    Or, or at the same time, you could do a bootcamp or something. Start Jillian Michaels again or do a Spark People bootcamp.

  • Wendy June 14, 2010, 10:23 am

    My husband just finished P90X and had incredible results, though he didn’t really exercise before he started it. I think I am going to meet with a Crossfit trainer this week to see what it’s all about. I majorly slacked off on strength training when I started training for half marys last January, and I really want to get back into it. My body confidence was so much better when I was doing it!

  • Amanda @ Eat to Live, Live to Run June 14, 2010, 10:23 am

    This isn’t a goal, but going on what Nicki said above I think it would be awesome if you join a local running club when you move to NC. We recently joined a running club here and it has been so amazing to meet new people. Most of the people aren’t my age at all, but I’ve really had a great time seeing running club buddies at races, going out to dinner once a month, etc. I’d love to hear about you joining one!

  • Tamara @ RealWorld Wellness June 14, 2010, 10:24 am

    I haven’t seen you do much Pilates on the blog… do you like it? If so, I say take the 30 Session Challenge! This is a Pilates challenge based on a famous quote by Joseph Pilates himself(paraphrasing): after 10 sessions you will feel better, after 20 sessions you will look better and after 30 sessions you will have a new body!
    You can give yourself a deadline of 3 months, and do a 1 hr session 4x per weke. You can use DVDs, take classes @ a local community center or a Pilates studio. I did this at my Pilates studio, and was so amazed by the results, I became a certified mat instructor!

    • caitlin June 14, 2010, 12:54 pm

      I haven’t done pilates… ever!

      Do you recommend a certain DVD?

      • Tamara @ RealWorld Wellness June 14, 2010, 1:17 pm

        When I first started, I used Mari Winsor DVDs. This one has a 25 min express workout, and a 55 min full length workout. http://tiny.cc/770fo

      • CM June 14, 2010, 1:19 pm

        Core Fusion is a mix of a lot of different strength training techniques, including pilates. There is one only pilates video. I know that other people have gotten great results from the Core Fusion DVD’s. I started last week (3-4 x/week) and have been feeling it ever since!

      • CM June 14, 2010, 1:20 pm

        I mentioned this above, but I highly recommend Core Fusion for strength training!
        Good Luck!

      • Tara June 14, 2010, 6:57 pm

        Caitlin, I really recommend Pilates! I have Darcey Bussell’s dvd and I really like that, but I do a lot of classes as well.

  • KatieTX June 14, 2010, 10:26 am

    Yoga plus strength training using light weights and dvds like 30 day shred! Also, pilates is great too. There are some great pilates/yoga mix dvds by ellen barrett. Search amazon!! Good luck!!

  • Naomi (onefitfoodie) June 14, 2010, 10:29 am

    ISNANITY!!! I am in month two and its killer, an amazing workout in 40-60 minutes a day!!

  • Angharad June 14, 2010, 10:31 am

    I was just feeling the same way so I decided to sign up for a 10k at the end of July. It’s enough distance to feel like a “goal” but it’s not too time consuming – 3 runs per week plus any cross training I want. The distances don’t ever go over 8 miles and mainly max out at 6 so your time isn’t eaten into. I would go for that! I’m trying to PR the time I did at the same race last year!

  • Raya June 14, 2010, 10:37 am

    What about a new 5K or 10K PR? Or just make a goal to try something new/unusual each week…I’m super excited to try rock climbing coming up soon. Rollerblading? Ice skating(@ RDV)? Martial arts? A lot of places will give you a free one week pass if you want to just try something out.

  • Diana @ frontyardfoodie June 14, 2010, 10:43 am

    Definitely go with a 5K or 10K! They’re no pressure and working out for them is really all about speed since you know that you can run 3 or 6 miles.

    I don’t have a fitness goal right now except to run throughout my pregnancy. Only three months left and going strong!

  • Molly @fuelherup June 14, 2010, 10:51 am

    I run track and field- maybe you could sign up for a short distance race, i.e. a 3200m on a track, and train for that!

  • Amber June 14, 2010, 10:55 am

    Maybe a 5K with a specific time goal? Then you could spend your time doing lots of speedwork and not have to devote too much time to training!

  • Kelly June 14, 2010, 10:55 am

    I just finished Insanity! Loved it, now I am starting P90X, so far I enjoyed Insanity better- very challenging workout and it helped my shave a minute off my mile!! You can purchase it here: beachbodycoach.com/tyktsmom

  • Tina June 14, 2010, 10:59 am

    What about something strength related like doing more pushups?

  • Rae June 14, 2010, 11:00 am

    how abot going for a 5k PR? Start doing speedwork once a week, and a tempo run for your goal pace…one “long run” of 5 miles…maybe 4 weeks out?

  • ActiveEggplant June 14, 2010, 11:04 am

    I think you should seek out a 5k in/near your new town in NC! That way you can start meeting new peeps in the running community there, AND like others suggested you could try to PR at the 5k distance which doesn’t take as much of a time commitment as many of the other activities you do!

  • Danielle (Runs on Green) June 14, 2010, 11:06 am

    Maybe you could do a yoga challenge…or one of those hardcore programs like P90X or INSANITY!

  • Amber K @ sparkpeople June 14, 2010, 11:07 am

    I have never worked specifically for something, so I’m not even sure how that goes. I’ve been reading through the comments, though. You have some awesome readers! Great ideas!

  • cyndie June 14, 2010, 11:07 am

    p90x! I think it would be a good switch from all therunning you have been doing for training. P90x is fun and it gets you in GREAT shape.

  • Wei-Wei June 14, 2010, 11:11 am

    If you like exercising at home then a workout DVD would be great too! Maybe try a super-intense one like P90X or Insanity… if you liked 30 Day Shred and Jillian, and you want to strength train, I’ve heard that “No More Troublezones” also by Jillian is good for strength.

    I think yoga is a great idea too! 🙂

    Wei-Wei

  • Miranda @ Mirandasjeans June 14, 2010, 11:19 am

    My ultimate goal right now is working towards my first Try-A-Tri in Aug. But in between I have various 5k, 8k, and maybe a 10k race over the summer. In the fall I’m going to upstate NY for the Warrior Dash, and in October I am going to climb the stairs at the CN Tower in Toronto.

  • MLT June 14, 2010, 11:27 am

    How about p90x? I just started it and am on the 2nd week. I haven’t really seen results yet, but I was pretty fit before I started. Well- scratch that- I’ve definitely seen results in my upper body – shoulders, etc. The videos are HARD. It’s 1 hour a day, 6 days a week. One of the days is Yoga though, and I usually skip that, so for me it’s 5 days a week, and you can do it all from home. You do need some equipment though- either bands or free weights. check it out online!

  • Gabriela @ Une Vie Saine June 14, 2010, 11:38 am

    I’ve been in a workout rut lately too with nothing to work towards, so I’ve loved reading all of the goal ideas!! I really like the yoga idea, and I also think it would be fun for you to train for a new 5k PR….not too much pressure, but you could definitely push yourself with that! Can’t wait to hear what you decide!

  • Michelle @ Give Me the Almond Butter June 14, 2010, 11:48 am

    It sounds like you need to start Insanity.

    My fitness goals is to tone up over the summer. Right now I’m going the opposite direction, but once this killer sunburn goes away, I will be kicking my bootay back into shape.

  • Colleen June 14, 2010, 12:04 pm

    I’ve been doing some of the P90X workouts with my husband, I really enjoy them – Tony Horton seems like a really nice guy too! The Insanity workouts look great too, but you may have some trouble with those because of your knees. The Plyo workout on the P90X is my favorite, but I couldn’t do stuff like that every day so I’m rethinking the Insanity workout. The Kenpo (kickboxing) workout is a lot of fun too!

  • Jessica @ Jessica Balances June 14, 2010, 12:06 pm

    I would suggest weight training, but I believe I remember you saying you really did not enjoy lifting weights… And I’d suggest Insanity, but I’ve heard (from the Fitnessista’s blog!) that there is tons of jumping involved, and I know you want/need to take good care of your knees.

    So, I guess I will just echo many of the other posters! Yoga or speed training! 🙂 or a combo of both!

  • JenRD June 14, 2010, 12:10 pm

    Have you ever tried Capoeira? It is a Brazilian martial art, and is really good for balance, agility, and toning (especially your core). Maybe taking up a new type of fitness could be a goal? I happen to love this DVD, which has cardio kickboxing in the first segment, an abs workout, and a capoiera workout: http://www.amazon.com/Criss-Cardio-Capoeira-Sherri-Jacquelyn/dp/B000KB48FW
    Jen

    • caitlin June 14, 2010, 12:51 pm

      that looks fun and it got really good reviews!

  • Lisa June 14, 2010, 12:13 pm

    I vote for a 5k. Train to be FAST. That could mix up your workouts.

  • Julie @SavvyEats June 14, 2010, 12:14 pm

    I’m about to start the “New Rules of Weight Lifting for Women” program…got the book just recently…you could do it with me!

    • caitlin June 14, 2010, 12:50 pm

      Do you need a gym??

  • Camille June 14, 2010, 12:18 pm

    Hmm, maybe a 10k? You definitely have the distance, but this way you can work on speed?
    I am training for a million and a half races I have coming up!

  • Lauren June 14, 2010, 12:41 pm

    I’d say a challenge is in store for you! What about the P90X or the Insanity workouts? Have you looked into those?

  • Natalie June 14, 2010, 12:44 pm

    I am always tempted to try the P90X program. It looks like a serious workout and one that would kick my butt. My only limitation is the $120 price tag.

  • VeganRunner June 14, 2010, 12:47 pm

    Train for the mile! You can usually find track races for adults hosted at local high schools. Your speed will definitely pick up! You could also try other track events (3000 meters, hurdles, sprints, etc.)–great way to change up your training!

  • Saima June 14, 2010, 12:49 pm

    Havng tried both P90X and Insanity…i would recommend P90X! Insanity was tooooo rough on my body….i would have backaches so i abandoned it…also, its a LOT of intense cardio + no strength training….whereas P90X switches up things….u do strength training every other day so ur body gets the time to heal….there are two stretch vids—one’s the yoga and the other is an hour of stretch!!

    • caitlin June 14, 2010, 12:50 pm

      how many weights did you buy for the video?? what did you use?

      • Saima June 14, 2010, 1:19 pm

        i used resistance bands and they worked like a charm!!

        • Lauren @ Health on the Run June 14, 2010, 2:50 pm

          I second this!! I’ve also tried P90X with resistance bands and I think it’s an awesome workout! Even their yoga is intense! And I like how they switch it up — not every video uses weights and you use different muscles everyday. Plus they have a couple different types of plans you can follow, depending on what your goals are.

          The only other thing you might need is a pull-up bar, since he does stuff with that.

  • erica June 14, 2010, 12:54 pm

    i agree that a 5K or 10K with a certain time goal (a bit faster than your PR) would be a good challenge that wouldn’t take that much time!

  • Sue June 14, 2010, 1:02 pm

    I completed P90X in March and Insanity just this morning. They are both incredible, intense programs. I loved them both for different reasons. I think Insanity really improved my endurance and speed in running but it is definitely high impact. P90X is equally intense without the impact and will give you a ripped upper body! If you have any questions please e-mail me or click on my website. Good luck in choosing a new goal. I am like you and feel lost when not working on a goal.

  • Carly @ The Road To Health June 14, 2010, 1:11 pm

    Why don’t you do the insanity workout DVD’s by Shaun T that Gina was doing? You can have a goal to complete Month 1, then Month 2, or do Month 1 twice like Gina did!

  • Carol June 14, 2010, 1:29 pm

    What about joining a running group when you move house? That way you will meet some like-minded people and can train and look forward to upcoming races together. Just go when you can and its nice to look forward to seeing how everyone is getting on.

  • Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin June 14, 2010, 1:31 pm

    What about swimming? It’s great for the summers, if you have a lake or outdoor pool near you!

    I hope to maybe do a 5K race this summer. I’ve never done a race before!

  • Sarah June 14, 2010, 1:49 pm

    Buy rollerblades-a great way to get to know a new area since you aren’t zooming by as fast as you are when biking!

  • zoe June 14, 2010, 2:02 pm

    good question! i have no real goals right now and depending on the results of my MRI for my knee next tuesday (fingers crossed it’s not a torn anything…) i will either be training for another 10k or a half marathon! i also need a fitness goal just to keep things fun and interesting 🙂

    but insanity freaks me out. i heard it was a bit rough on the knees too (i’ve got bad knees and i know you’ve mentioned yours before too!) from gina at the fitnessista so maybe steer clear of that? i’m going to take up HILT training for speed, i think. and weight training. i am also going to up my yoga intake. i looove yoga. i recommend yogadownload.com. they have TONS of awesome videos for cheap! even ones with weights (which i promise are butt kickers!). so maybe loose yourself in some yoga and incorporate some long runs/speed intervals too?

    good luck on choosing something :)!

    • caitlin June 14, 2010, 5:51 pm

      i heard it was rough on the knees too which is why i doubt i’ll do it!

  • eatingRD June 14, 2010, 2:12 pm

    It’s always hard to not be busy with a fitness goal! I’ve really been wanting to focus more on weight training because I am liking it more and more. I would also recommend pilates on the reformers and equipment if you ever get the chance. I would love to get back into that even though it’s not really portable and pretty pricey for me. I also recently tried bikram yoga, and while it seemed like torture at the time, I strangely want to go back. I felt great afterwards 🙂 Good luck!

  • Tammy June 14, 2010, 2:40 pm

    Ooo…I love the Winsor pilates…when I was doing it, I could tell a huge difference in my flexibility, my abs, and I did look longer and leaner. I’m still working toward recovering from my hip injury, but am really looking forward to getting back to it. Plus, you don’t need much equipment and it’s easy to do at home. Be careful with Plyometrics. It can be really great, just make sure you are warmed up well beforehand!

  • Nancy June 14, 2010, 2:53 pm

    I was going to mention P90X but it seems others already have. I’ve heard such great things about the workout.

  • Katie June 14, 2010, 3:00 pm

    I see someone else mentioned it already, but I was going to say Warrior Dash: http://www.warriordash.com/

  • Shauna June 14, 2010, 3:15 pm

    Run 100 miles in a month? I did it last June and I’m doing it again now. I like the amount of control it gives you–I don’t have as many free days to run this year, so I’m doing three 8-mile runs a week as opposed to five 5-miles runs a week. I know this challenge is more distance-based, but you could use it to increase on speed too if you wished!

  • Tom G June 14, 2010, 3:25 pm

    400m sprint

    run one today, if it was slow, then spend 30 days training to run one 10 seconds faster; if it was fast, then only drop five seconds

    Might only need 30 minutes four times per week. Definitely will take care of speed and strength issues

  • Marci June 14, 2010, 3:32 pm

    I think you have a goal and don’t realize it! You already put your goal on paper and it focuses on running faster and toning up. Just incorporate it into your week and view it as your goal by X date–end of summer, Sept. 1, etc.

  • Suzanne June 14, 2010, 3:45 pm

    I highly recommend Jillian Michaels’ No More Trouble Zones. It’s available for rent from Netflix. It’s an incredible workout.

  • nicole June 14, 2010, 3:51 pm

    I have been doing a mix of Rx Fitness magazines Bikini Workout,Jillian Michaels and FIRM parts dvds-standing legs and upper body. If people think Jillian is tough,they need to try the FIRM standing legs-I am cursing these women out by the MIDDLE of this dvd!

  • Katherine June 14, 2010, 4:04 pm

    I like the idea of 100 miles of running in one month. That seems like it would give you tons of flexibility in terms of when to work out.

    I’ve done a 30 day yoga challange before and loved it! I was so flexible afterwards.

  • barbara(Blood, Sweat and Heels) June 14, 2010, 4:05 pm

    Try some Crossfit:)

  • ari June 14, 2010, 4:16 pm

    you should check out bodyrock.tv
    the woman, zuzana, posts videos of her workouts so you can really see how the exercises go. it’s her husband filming it so sometimes the angles are weird, like close up on her boobs and butt, but the workouts are TOUGH! and i’m pretty sure the longest one is around 30 minutes. she has lots that are only like 12 minutes, and many of them don’t require any equipment.
    she does use an interval timer, but there’s an app for the iphone that you can get for free, which is what i use instead of buying the actual timer.
    if you’re interested, i’d be happy to send you the links to the workouts that require no equipment at all. but you should definitely check it out!

  • Heather Rose June 14, 2010, 4:17 pm

    I’m currently training to run a 10 mile race in November, and then a Half Marathon in January…giving myself plenty of time!

    I’ve heard P90X is a great workout, and it can all be done at home, might be something worth trying out!

  • Nicci June 14, 2010, 4:32 pm

    P90X would be a fun workout to do, how about Zumba? You can take classes at most gyms or rec centers. Doesn’t cost an arma & leg too!!

  • Julie @ Pickley Pear June 14, 2010, 4:40 pm

    I love yoga, and definitely don’t make it a big enough priority in my life. Sometimes yoga benefits more than a 10-mile run! My current goal is training for a 10k next weekend and the weekend after. I would like to do another half-marathon, just can’t decide which one.

  • Matt June 14, 2010, 5:37 pm

    How ’bout bike 100 miles per week? It’ll force you to run errands on a bike… not really sure if that’s possible in your current area, but definitely in Charlotte!

  • faith June 14, 2010, 5:46 pm

    you seem to always need a goal or plan. what about trying to exercise mindfully and learning to figure out what you really love or enjoy doing and enjoy doing it? let yourself be in the moment, without having to go a certain distance or achieve a certain goal, let yourself just be….that in itself is INCREDIBLY challenging and you may learn a lot about yourself along the way.

  • Taryn June 14, 2010, 5:51 pm

    How about P90X? I just started and it’s amazing!

  • sirenjess June 14, 2010, 6:14 pm

    Girl, you’re like me. I ALWAYS need a goal. There is nothing wrong with that. So right now I’m training for another marathon, San Francisco in July. My problem is that I love to take classes, but also run my mileage so I get stuck with doing too much. Oh well.

    My advice is work on toning up and getting stronger. I agree with other readers why not do a yoga or strength challenge.

    Or you can go the distance and do an ultra. That’s another goal of mine.

  • John June 14, 2010, 7:07 pm

    This looks like fun and a different challenge then you were expecting probably 🙂

    http://warriordash.com/register2010_mid-atlantic.php

    • ari June 14, 2010, 8:35 pm

      LOL caitlin you should do this

  • Tara June 14, 2010, 7:14 pm

    I very recently tried Muay Thai on the recommendation of a friend and am really enjoying it! I usually get my exercise through yoga, Pilates and runs on the beach so it’s a totally different type of work out for me. It’s excellent for strength training!

  • Mary June 14, 2010, 7:43 pm

    Maybe you could work to increase your flexibility? i know for a fact being a former ballerina, that running is quite possibly one of the worst things to for flexibility and it increases your chances of injury. Keep up with your yoga routine 🙂 on the side with running, swimming, biking, hiking and whatever else it is that you do 😉

  • Krista N June 14, 2010, 11:29 pm

    The physique 57 workouts are great!!! I also love Tracy Anderson’s Perfect Design Series. You should check them out 🙂

  • Kelly June 15, 2010, 7:36 am

    I’ve been doing Physique 57 since Christmas. I LOVE THE WORKOUTS!! Kelly Ripa is a big supporter. Just check out her arms! All you need is a chair or couch, some hand weights (I use 3 and 5 lb.) and the playground ball they have available. I find that it worked to tone up. Then I sprinkled in some aerobic exercise to round it out. I used my bike, running and Tae Bo to mix it up.

    I’ve heard a lot of great things about P90X but you need to devote a good amount of time to those workouts. I just sent away for Bob Harper’s new DVDs. I hope to get them soon.

    I have also been wanting to check out LA Boxing but they don’t have classes that I can make it to. Kickboxing is a great workout!

    I think the bottom line is choosing something you will enjoy and can stick with. I can’t stand when I get all excited about a new workout program only to have it suck or be boring. Good luck! I can’t wait to see what you come up with.

  • Laura June 15, 2010, 1:53 pm

    What about trying to knock some time off your fastest mile time trial alongside doing some push-ups/pull-ups and also trying to beat whatever your max plank is.. you don’t need a race to get you motivated get in competition with yourself 🙂

  • Kelly June 17, 2010, 4:05 pm

    I’m doing 30 day shred right now. When I started it was 60 days until my wedding and I’m 8 days in. I need another fitness goal too for the last 30 days. I want to be in great shape for my big day!

    • Kelly June 17, 2010, 4:07 pm

      I have to add that I just looked at your review and you’re right on with everything. I had planned to do 10 days of each but only did 6 days of Level 1 b/c it was just too easy, but it did get my heart pumping. I use 5 pound weights for several of the moves, so I agree with you about having a bit of a variety.

  • Dee June 20, 2010, 2:44 pm

    Hey Caitlin,

    Congrats to you for continuing to seek fitness challenges.

    To get speedier, you really should focus on interval training though, and not just go out and run as fast as you can for the distance you’re running. This will just make you tired, and not really that much faster.

    If you want to complete a sub 23 minute 5K, then train at this pace (about 7:20 per mile) for intervals during your run. Start out at 2 or 3 minute intervals then run SLOWLY for equal lengths of time for recovery. Increase interval time weekly until you’re up to a mile, but don’t increase your recovery (very slow jogging) time. So run one mile at pace, then recover for 3 minutes. You’re guaranteed success with this training and it only needs to be done once a week.

    I also suggest you run a 5 or 6 miler once a week so you have some endurance on your legs for this race distance.

    I’m a speedy woman and this type of training has worked wonders for me, and I would love to see you meet your running goals!

    Good luck!

    • Caitlin June 20, 2010, 3:28 pm

      thats the plan! thoughts on running three times a week as follows?

      1) 5 – 6 miles
      2) one 3 – 4 tempo run
      3) interval training for 2 – 3 miles

  • Dee June 20, 2010, 9:01 pm

    Hey Caitlin,

    Your plan sounds great, but make sure you have your pacing down for each type of run. For your longer run, just run comfortably; and your tempo should be closer to your 10K pace with a nice warmup and cool down. It will be fun to watch your training unfold and peak into a solid race experience. Thanks for your blog!

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