I've always enjoyed exercising - mostly for the social aspect, let's be real. But really, exercise has never been something that was difficult for me to do. I've also tried just about every type of exercise that exists - sports, running, walking, group classes, extreme cardio, yoga, weights, and even moonlighted with a personal trainer a couple of times. And while time has become a factor in our current life, exercise has remained a priority because Mason and I both acknowledge that not only is it good for your body but also for you mind.
Mason has long used the phrase "work smarter" - he's always trying to figure out how to use his time more wisely and maximize the return on the work he puts in - this is a trait that someone who can waste hours on a meaningless task (not me, obvs) can really admire. This adage stared me right in the face when I came to realize last year that not all exercise is created equal. Now don't jump all over me here, I knew lifting weights was different than running on a treadmill was different than a high intensity group exercise class (I did work at a gym in college after all…) - but I mean realizing that sometimes harder and more intense isn't better when it comes to exercise.
You see, when I started to realize that returning my body to a good place after giving birth to Camille wasn't just taking longer, it wasn't happening at all, I decided that because I was already eating a healthy diet I just needed to incorporate a higher intensity, more consistent exercise routine. So I began boxing. And honestly, I loved it - there is nothing like putting on some boxing gloves and going crazy on a punching bag in a routine set to loud music with an instructor yelling commands to make you feel like a badass. Really. But the more I boxed, the worse I felt and all my super sweaty workout sessions weren't helping me shed any of the baby weight or quell any of my problematic symptoms. When I started working with the functional medicine doctor, one of the first things she instructed me to do was drop the boxing routine.
Here's a super simple science lesson for you:
Cortisol = your stress hormone & your body makes cortisol as a response to being under stress
Chronic, high intensity cardio like running, Crossfit, and boxing can increase cortisol levels. For people with otherwise balanced hormones, this rise is generally temporary. But when your body is already combatting stress from physical, mental, or emotional factors (hello pregnancy, birth, newborn, lack of sleep, breastfeeding, etc.), your stress hormone can remain elevated and wreak havoc on the rest of your body - depleting your happy brain chemicals like serotonin, robbing your sleep, and making you store fat—especially in your belly. High cortisol is also linked to depression, food addiction, and sugar cravings. All super fun.
So I said farewell to boxing and for several months relied on walking and yoga as my main forms of exercise. Then entered my beloved Peloton bike. Mason and I had discussed for several years the value of such a pricey piece of exercise equipment, but when we finally went for it, we have never looked back in regret. In fact, I'd wager we've made our money back on it now (particularly since everything from a YMCA membership to a fancy workout class around here is crazy expensive). Cycling classes are the main feature on our bike, but there are weight-based workouts, yoga, running, and outdoor (walking, running, and boot camp) instruction all offered on the bike as well as the app. Other than loving the bike and program itself, I particularly love that I can actually workout in 20-30 minutes because let’s be real, going to an exercise class takes at least 90 minutes (or more if you have to shower afterward).
Here’s a look a look at what my current exercise routine looks like:
A Get Lifted Ride with Ally Love on the Peloton (30 minutes) every Monday because it just makes the day better
An outside walk a couple times a week
An interval Peloton ride of some sort
Chasing my kids around, going to the park or swimming in the pool with those same kids
Maybe a Peloton yoga or toning session once or twice during the week if it fits
Bottom Line: My high intensity exercise is limited to about 2 - 30 minute sessions a week and the rest is dedicated to stretching, toning, or lower intensity, more natural movement. I have more energy and have seen such a positive change in my body since incorporating this more flexible type of exercise routine.
I'm not suggesting this exercise routine is for everyone - our bodies and their responses to exercise are all different and what makes us feel good mentally, physically, socially, emotionally, etc. all varies greatly. BUT the key takeaway here is if you feel like you're on the high intensity exercise merry-go-round like I was- working out like crazy with little to no result - take a step back and see if physical stress could be compounding other stress elements in your life and don't be afraid to give yourself and your body a break. We all know abs are made in the kitchen anyway…
Speaking of kitchen (you like what I did there?), I've rounded up some of my current favorite new (at least to me) healthy products I've discovered. Maybe you'll see one (or 5) you want to give a try…
Hail Merry Lemon Tarts - for the sweet tooth; these are so yummy and indulgent but made with great whole food ingredients.
Vital Proteins Collagen Water & Power Shots - I talked about these on my Instagram this week but loving an extra dose of collagen in a light, refreshing drink now that it’s so super hot outside. And it’s still TBD for me as to if the Power Shots work but I’m having fun testing them out…and they all taste good so far.
Raw Rev Glo Bars - this is my go-to bar; they’re low sugar, plant-based, with no funky ingredients and have they have plenty of protein and fiber. Plus, they’re the perfect size for an afternoon snack and the Peanut Butter, Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt flavor could pass for a candy bar…really.
Banza Mac N' Cheese - we’ve done Annie's Mac 'N Cheese in our house for years and I don't see it going away anytime soon but the Banza Mac N' Cheese options are a great alternative for when you want something that feels a little more grown up. I always serve mac n’ cheese with a green veggie side - just for balance (and nutrients).
Justin's Cashew Butter Covered Cashews - just so dang delicious - the biggest issue I see with these is exercising some self-control as I’m pretty sure I could put away the whole bag in one sitting. Also as a side note, if you need a laugh, the descriptions of their products on the Justin's website are gold.
