Casual

October 25, 2018

WHY I PREFER TO WORKOUT IN THE MORNING (AND HOW I FIT IT INTO MY SCHEDULE)

BLACK BALLER HAT || BLACK ENERGY SPORTS BRA || OLIVE RAIN RULES JACKET

all c/o lululemon. Sizing and fit details at the bottom of this post

ALL EXERCISE IS GOOD EXERCISE

Don’t get me wrong, I always feel better when I’m able to fit a workout in my day, no matter what time of day it is. I’ve kicked up my workouts a notch over the past 2 years and have discovered how much more I prefer an early morning workout to one in the late afternoon or evening.

I’ve partnered with lululemon today to share how exercise keeps my body and my mind healthy, allowing me to live the best version of myself! luluemon is a brand I’ve loved for years (just wait until you see their new fall arrivals). They truly embody the energy and excitement I feel when I workout. I love the mornings for working out. When I miss a workout I find myself feeling sluggish throughout the day. Every time I miss a workout I make myself stop and remember how I feel so that I’ll be more motivated to fit in some exercise the next day! Working out in lululemon lets me hit the ground running, no matter what kind of weather or workout I encounter that day.

WUNDER UNDER HIGH RISE 7/8 LEGGINGS c/o lululemon

HAVING THE RIGHT WORKOUT GEAR TO COMBAT THE WEATHER

I have naturally poor blood circulation, so I am always cold. Having the right gear to protect me from the elements outside is so important in order to workout! lululemon just released their fall line of high performance jackets and coats that are perfect for cold or rainy mornings! Here are three of my favorite jackets they just released:

I’m wearing their new Rain Rules Jacket. Not only is it buttery soft, but it’s waterproof, breathable, and I love the tailored fit. It’s such a chic rain jacket that was made to allow you to move. It also looks really cute with a pair of joggers, a tee, and sneakers.

They also have a great running rain jacket called the Patch Game Jacket with great movement and ventilation, and I love the cute print.

If you live in really cold weather, lululemon’s Cloudscape Jacket is absolutely dreamy. I tried it on in the store and it feels like you are wearing a cloud! It runs a little oversized, so I would recommend sizing down. I makes me think of all my cold morning runs in the canyons when I lived in Utah. This jacket would be perfect for that!

I love that lululemon makes workout gear that works just as hard as I do. Their clothings is impeccably made with the best activewear fabrics to optimize my movement. Their 2018 outerwear keeps me warm and protected so that I don’t have to miss an outdoor workout due to cold or rainy weather.

WHITE COOL RACERBACK TANK (soft like butter, incredible stretch! I’m wearing a size 4)

FIGURING OUT MY PEAK ENERGY LEVEL

I realized that when I tried to workout at night I was so exhausted. I didn’t want to take pre-workout or caffeine that late at night, so I would have a much less productive workout than I wanted to. I find that the time of day where I have the most energy is between 9-12, so I figured that an early workout would optimize this time. I’ve come to find that it even extends my energy level to 1 or 2pm in the afternoon. If I am able to get in a workout before 8am, I feel revitalized and already feel accomplished early on. It sets the tone for the rest of my day.

I MENTALLY PREP FOR MY WORKOUT THE NIGHT BEFORE

Before I go to bed I prep for my workout the following morning. I make sure I lay out my workout clothes (or at least make sure that I have a clean pair of socks/sports bra that I can easily grab). Knowing that I get to throw on my favorite workout tank or cute leggings makes it easier to get up when my alarm goes off. I make sure my headphones are charged (I wrote about my favorite headphones here), and I pick out the podcast that I am going to listen to. Usually it’s something business related or one on parenting. Starting the mental prep the night before makes it easier for me get up early for a workout.

HOW I FIT IN MY WORKOUTS WITH KIDS AT HOME

This one can be tricky..but if you are really dedicated to working out, you can find a way to make it happen! When my kids were really young, I would run with them bundled up in my double stroller. I actually ran with Eli a few days ago in the morning! He has been home sick with croup and it was a great way to get him out of the house and he loved pointing out all the cars he saw and pushing the crosswalk buttons.

My favorite time to run is at 6am. This works for me right now because Garrett is home at that time and our boys are (usually) still sleeping. Yes, some mornings are rough getting out of bed that early, but about 10 minutes into my run I feel fantastic. This way I already have a full workout in before I start getting the kids ready for school. This also makes the rest of my day more productive because I’m not trying to find time to fit in a workout during the house I am usually working.

START SLOW AND SMALL, BUT KEEP IT STEADY.

Some days I run 1 mile, some days I run 5. Some days I do 30 squats, some days I do 200. On days where I am short on time, I just for a super quick 15 minute workout and I’m still able to feel energized and mentally rejuvenated. If you can’t run a full mile, that’s fine! Try run/walking half a mile each mornings and you will slowly build up the endurance to add on more distance later.

AN EARLY MORNING WORKOUT STARTS WITH AN EARLIER BEDTIME

I was the queen of late night for about five straight years. With younger kids at home, I would often work while they napped and then after they went to bed until 1 or 2 in the morning almost every night. When I decided to start exercising early in the mornings, I knew I needed to get better sleep at night in order to have the energy for a workout in the morning.

It got a ton easier when my kids started school. I was able to shift my work hours to the morning/afternoon while they were in school.

Are you an early morning exerciser? Regardless of what time I can fit it in, I’m always so glad when I do!

Shop my lululemon look:

BLACK BALLER HAT (wicks away sweat!)

BLACK ENERGY SPORTS BRA (amazing support- I’m wearing a size 4)

WHITE COOL RACERBACK TANK (soft like butter, incredible stretch! I’m wearing a size 4)

WUNDER UNDER HIGH RISE 7/8 LEGGINGS (keep me warm with incredible movement – I’m wearing a size 4)

OLIVE RAIN RULES JACKET (I’m wearing a size 2)

all c/o lululemon

This collaboration was sponsored by lululemon and Shopping Links

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Casual

June 22, 2017

MY OUTER THIGH WORKOUT FOR LONGER LEANER THIGHS (YOU CAN DO FROM HOME!)

LILAC NIKE SHOES (run tts, I’m wearing an 8) || BLACK LEGGINGS (run small, order 1 size down) || LONG SLEEVED PULLOVER (on sale!) || SIMILAR TANK || SIMILAR HAT

I have a new workout video for you today! I have gotten a lot or requests and questions about my exercise routine, so I wanted to show you another leg move I love to do. Most of the workouts I’ve posted are focused on legs/upper thigh because it’s my favorite area to really focus on. I also think you can improve a lot of other areas of the body while doing these workouts as well. I still do my squat/pushup routine at the gym regularly. I love doing my leg lifts at home, and this is another great leg exercise I love to do at home.

There are so many days when I have the best intentions to get out the door to the gym…eventually. Putting on workout clothes first thing in the morning is one way I mentally make myself workout that day, but many days it just ends up being at home at the end of a long day! Life gets going, and I’m all over the place with kids, work, and errands; but when I already have on a comfy tank, leggings, and running shoes, I force myself to fit in some exercise at some point in the day!

I recently picked up this amazing pair of Nike running shoes from Finish Line in the prettiest lilac color. Aren’t they amazing? I saw them online, and I just couldn’t get them out of my head. The top of the shoe is really soft and pliable, so they are even comfy to wear without socks if you are just doing yoga or pilates! I ended up wearing them all day without socks the other day because I just threw them on first thing in the morning, and they were so cushiony all day long. I love adding a colorful shoe to an all black workout look. Finish Line also has some great women’s workout clothing in addition to shoes. These black leggings are so cute! I don’t love capris on me, so I like that these are long with the logo at the very bottom. One of these days I’ll get brave and go for some bright colored leggings, but I loved these ones. You can check out more of the great options that Finish Line carries here. I saw some athletic shoes there in colors and styles I haven’t seen before, like these and these.

SHOP MY LOOK HERE:

These side leg lifts are great because they are quick and efficient. They really target the outside of the upper thigh (which is always the area I try to concentrate on most). These ones get right to the point fast, and my upper thigh always burns like crazy as I do them! These are great for days when you can’t make it to the gym, but have a little time and want to just concentrate on your outer thighs.

Here is the workout. Try doing it along with me!

note: make sure you have most of your weight on your knee. Your hand on the mat is there to help with your balance, but you should hardly be putting any weight on it. You should be able to lift your hand off of the mat while doing this exercise.

Left Leg:

16 leg lifts (foot flexed)

16 leg pulses (foot flexed)

8 clockwise circles (toe pointed)

8 counterclockwise circles (toe pointed)

8 leg lifts (foot flexed)

STRETCH before changing sides!

Right Leg:

16 leg lifts (foot flexed)

16 leg pulses (foot flexed)

8 clockwise circles (toe pointed)

8 counterclockwise circles (toe pointed)

8 leg lifts (foot flexed)

STRETCH!

Disclaimer: Like I state in all my workout videos, I’m not a professional! These are workouts I’ve picked up from various classes over the years, and ones that I do all the time. I’m simply sharing a few ideas for workouts you can do at home, but I don’t claim to be any sort of workout expert! 😉

in partnership with Finish Line and ShopStyle / photography by Jordan Zobrist

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Casual

February 24, 2017

MY FULL SQUAT/PUSH-UP GYM ROUTINE (+ WORKOUT VIDEO)

TANK TOP || SIMILAR LEGGINGS HERE AND HERE || GREY SNEAKERS || SIMILAR SPORTS BRA

When I make the time to work out I am a much happier person. I feel energized, fulfilled, and it’s so much better for me mentally and physically. Today, I’m going to answer two questions that I get asked a lot.

What is your go-to gym workout routine?
What do you do to keep your scalp from getting itchy in between washing when you work out regularly?

Since these two questions kind of go hand-in-hand, I decided to group them together and answer both in today’s post…

WORKOUT ROUTINE:

If you watch my Insta Stories, you know I do lots of push-ups and squats during my workouts. These two exercises have given me more visible results than most other exercises I have done. Some days the count is a little less, just depending on how much time/energy I have, but on most days at the gym, this is my workout:

I start off my workout with a 2 mile run on the treadmill. Followed by:

30 squats (toes and knees pointed out, with 15 lb weight)
15 pushups
1-2 min plank
30 squats (with 20 lb weight bar)
15 pushups
1-2 min plank
30 squats (15 with 20 lb bar pushing it straight up, 15 with no weight)
15 pushups
1-2 min plank

(Repeat this twice)

End with 20 squats of choice and 10 push-ups

My goal with each workout is to get to 200 squats. Adding a light weight to my squat routine has made a world of difference! I posted a full video of this workout at the bottom of this post. Feel free to play it at the gym and work out along with me!

HAIR ROUTINE IN BETWEEN WORK OUTS

Since I usually only have 40-50 minutes to fit in my workout, I workout hard. I usually leave the gym a sweaty mess. I talked about my struggle with a dry, itchy scalp a few weeks ago in this post. When working out regularly, my scalp usually needs even more attention. I try to wash my hair a little more frequently than normal (every 4 days instead of every 5 or 6), but when I sweat, my scalp gets itchy fast. It is hard to squeeze in time to exercise, let alone shower. I have been on the hunt for a product that will help my itchy scalp in between washing it. After a sweaty workout, I dry my hair with a cool blow dryer, and spray in some dry shampoo. This helps keep it from getting too greasy. However, an itchy scalp is usually the reason why I end up washing my hair more frequently. I recently discovered Head & Shoulders Clinical Solutions, and this duo has been the answer to my problem!

The Head & Shoulders Dry Scalp Care Clinical Solutions Itch Relief Dandruff Shampoo and Leave-On Dandruff Treatment products are made with a prescription strength formula. That means that they keep my normally dry, itchy scalp at bay for longer than any other normal anti-dandruff shampoo. These two products combined help me from getting an itchy scalp after workouts for up to 7 days.

I start by washing my hair with the Clinical Solutions Itch Relief Dandruff Shampoo– which works on my scalp right away and smells so good. I was shocked that such a powerful shampoo would smell clean and fresh, not like medicine. It doesn’t dry out my hair either, like I expected medicated shampoo might do.

Every day in between washing my hair, I spray Head & Shoulders Clinical Solutions Leave-On Dandruff Treatment all along the front, top section of my scalp (where I get the most dandruff/itchiness). This product has been a game changer!! It’s like being able to shampoo my scalp without having to go through the entire shampoo process.

The Leave-On Dandruff Treatment is a clear gel that I spray on and rub into my scalp. It dries quickly and doesn’t leave any extra buildup in my hair. I use it twice a day on the days that I work out, and just in the mornings before I do my hair on the other days. The zinc pyrithione in this formula is what really combats the itching and irritation. I haven’t had any flakes or itchiness since using this treatment regularly, and I love that it allows me to workout as much as I want without having to wash my hair all the time. It also smells like the shampoo- clean and fresh. It’s become a necessity in my daily beauty routine, and I love that I can order it quickly online when I am close to running out.

If you have a problem with an itchy scalp, or if you are looking for a way to be able to workout without the pain of washing your hair constantly, I would highly recommend these products.

Below is the full workout video. I loaded it in real time so you can do it along with me (I’ll loaded a condensed sped up version on my instagram if you would prefer viewing it that way).

Also make sure to check out my Leg Kick Workout Routine video at the bottom of this post.

Shop my look below:

in partnership with Head & Shoulders | photography by Jordan Zobrist

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Head & Shoulders. The opinions and text are all mine.

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Fashion

January 27, 2017

3 LOOKS THAT WILL MAKE YOU WANT TO WORKOUT + MY UPPER THIGH LEG KICK WORKOUT ROUTINE

LOOK 1: GREY TANK (SIMILAR) || SIMILAR MAROON LEGGINGS (SIMILAR) || FLORAL SNEAKERS (SIMILAR) || YOGA MAT, WATER BOTTLE, PUSHUP PADS AND OTHER EXERCISE EQUIPMENT FOUND HERE

Today I’m sharing a few cute workout looks that will make you want to get out there and exercise! Most of the time if I go through a period where I am not in the groove of working out multiple times a week, I have the hardest time getting motivated to start up again. One solution that works every time is a cute new top, shoes, or leggings. I just picked up some adorable new workout looks from Tjmaxx.com, and now I have the motivation I need! Have you ever shopped online with T.J.Maxx? I’ve always shopped in store, so this was my first experience shopping online, and it was so easy with lots of items to choose from. I was able to grab so many great activewear pieces, and almost all of them are under $20! They also have a great selection of workout gear, and it was all delivered right to my door!

At the bottom of this post, I also share a leg workout that I have been doing for years that always gives me results. Make sure you check it out, and let me know if you try it!

For my first look, I picked this cute designer top with a built in sports bra. I am obsessed with burgundy leggings, and these ones are super comfy. I love the look of them paired with these floral sneakers. You can check out more cute sneaker options here.

LOOK 2: STRAPY SPORTS BRA (SIMILAR) || FAUX LEATHER LEGGINGS (SIMILAR) || GREY LONG SLEEVE TEE (SIMILAR) || NAVY METALLIC SNEAKERS (SIMILAR)

For this look I wanted something that I could move around in easily for a light morning stretch or exercise, and then keep on the rest of the day as I run from school drop offs, to the grocery store, etc. Can you even handle these navy metallic sneakers? I about died when I found them. That’s one thing I love about T.J.Maxx. Shopping there is like a treasure hunt; I’ve never seen these sneakers on anyone before, so I felt like I hit the jackpot when I came across them online! Tjmaxx.com is like my secret weapon for finding designer items that are hard to find elsewhere, at incredible prices. These faux leather leggings are such incredible quality, and they are the most reasonably priced leather leggings I have found!

LOOK 3: WHITE SWEATSHIRT (SIMILAR) || BLACK CUT OUT LEGGINGS (SIMILAR)

My third look screams, “Did I work out? Did I even change out of my jammies? YOU’LL NEVER KNOW!” I love it! I am usually freezing in my house, so I love throwing on this ultra soft sweatshirt. This look is definitely comfy enough to just lounge around the house in.

Here is a real time video of one of my favorite leg exercises. I’ve been doing it for the past 7 years and I learned it in a pilates class I took when I was pregnant with Bradley. No matter how strong I am or how many times I do this routine, it is always hard and it works out my inner and outer thighs like crazy! It’s the best because you can just lay down on the floor and do it in your house! No equipment needed.

I shot this exercise from 2 different angles so you can see the placement of my leg kicks, and I loaded it in real time so you can do it along with me!

RIGHT SIDE:

16 kicks straight up

16 kicks out

8 kicks straight up + out

16 kicks across

REPEAT ON LEFT SIDE

SHOP MY LOOKS BELOW:

in partnership with T.J.Maxx and ShopStyle / photography by Jordan Zobrist

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Casual

December 21, 2016

5 TIPS FOR PERFECTING THE ATHLEISURE TREND

PUMA REBEL SNEAKERS C/O RACK ROOM SHOES || COBALT BLUE TANK || BLACK SPORTS BRA || BLACK WORKOUT PANTS || AVIATORS || BLACK JACKET

If you follow along with me on Instagram Stories, you know that I try to get to the gym a few times a week. If I can’t fit the gym into my day, I usually do a workout at home. Carving out 40 minutes to and hour in my day to dedicate to an intense workout is something that benefits me physically and mentally. Aside from the gym, I am constantly lifting kids, strollers, bags of groceries, hiking up the hill for school pickup, pushing around 1800 lb Costco shopping carts, contorting my body in unnatural ways to reach the prized toy that fell into a deep dark hole under the Cash’s car seat. I am ALWAYS on the move. Since my day is so packed, I usually end up staying in whatever outfit I throw on first thing in the morning. I have found that if I throw on an athleisure look that I can move around easily in- 9 times out of 10 I am more physically active that day. Here are a few tips I’ve learn when it comes to making the athleisure trend work…

1. Find a middle balance in your clothing:

Athleisure means you ware wearing clothing that is appropriate for low to med exercise where you aren’t dripping sweat (yoga, pilates, short jogs, light weight lifting). This is clothing that you should also feel comfortable grocery shopping in, or chatting with your kid’s teacher. Tight running shorts and sports bras only are very much “gym only” clothes in my opinion. So don’t walk around town in something that is too short or revealing. I have a few tighter workout shirts that are great at the gym, but I wear longer, loser fitting tops that cover my bum when I know I’m also going to be out and about.

2. Accessorize appropriately:

A red lip and cat eye glasses do not go with yoga pants and running shoes. But a tiny delicate necklace and understated aviators, and gold studs are a good balance. I also usually opt for my diaper bag when I am heading out in athleisure. I save my nicer totes and purses for a look that is more appropriate.

3. Wear shoes that can crossover:

I have a few pairs of sneakers that are hard core running shoes, but for an athleisure look I go for something really comfortable, one solid color, and a little more understated. I love these new Puma Rebel Sneakers I just got from Rack Room Shoes, because they don’t have laces, so I can slip them on super easily. Socks are optional with these shoes because the bottom of the shoes so comfortable. It kind of feels like I’m walking on clouds. They are also breathable, so I can get away with a light workout without socks too. I love the solid black design because it looks sleek and understated, but still stylish (they also come in pink and grey)

4. A little hair and makeup go a long way:

Since you are spending less time digging through blouses and colors of jeans- take a few extra minutes and throw on a little foundation, blush, mascara, and lipgloss. You can definitely get away without a full face of makeup, but I fell a lot more confident running around town in an athleisure look when I have a little makeup on and my hair isn’t a disaster.

5. Remember to wear jeans sometimes too:

While I think the athleisure look is so great for someone busy like me- I still try and get dressed in a normal jeans + top a few times a week. These are usually days when I have meetings and know I won’t have time to fit in a workout.

in partnership with Rack Room Shoes | photography by Kendra Maarse

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Fashion

November 29, 2016

HOW I CUT SUGAR FROM MY DIET

BLACK NIKE TANK TOP || SIMILAR SPORTS BRA || RUNNING SHORTS (SIMILAR) || SIMILAR RUNNING SHOES (also loving these) || GREY PULLOVER SWEATSHIRT (wearing an XS for reference) || SUNGLASSES || WATER BOTTLE

If I had to pick the two fastest, most effective, ways that have helped me trim down and get into shape, it would be running and cutting sugar from my diet. Both things are hard, but I have seen more progress in a shorter amount of time doing these two things than any other kind of workout or diet.

I ran a few half marathons a while back and grew to really love running when I was training for them. I have to wear comfortable clothes when I run, and I am super picky about how my shorts fit (if the ride up, if fabric is itchy, whether my sports bra is supportive or not, etc.) I’m not sure I have felt a top softer than this Zella pullover. I love that it is a wider cut around the neck so I don’t feel suffocated or claustrophobic when I run on cold mornings. These shorts have built in tighter shorts in them, which allow them to stay in place and not ride up! This cute tank is a thin sweat-wicking material that is cool and not too tight. I always score the best workout gear at Nordstrom.

I get asked a lot about how I cut sugar from my diet, so I wanted to focus more on that aspect in this post (you can read more about my favorite workout right now in this post). Just like my last workout post, I need to emphasize that I am not an expert on diet, nutrition, exercise, etc. I have just found certain things that work for me (as long as I am dedicated) and I thought I would share it with you.

When I was pregnant with Eli I stayed pretty active (you can read more about my favorite pregnancy workouts here). I worked out and ran regularly, but at around 6 months it was really painful to run and I couldn’t be as active as I wanted. So I decided to clean up my diet to make up for the lack of time at the gym. With Bradley and Cash I wanted Taco Bell 5 layer burritos and Mac & Cheese all the live long day. But with Eli, those junk food cravings weren’t quite so strong. One thing I experienced, was that I would get nauseous any time I ate sweets. Because of this, it made things a little easier for me to avoid sugar because I knew how sick it would make me. I don’t know why the pregnancy craving gods had mercy on me this pregnancy, but I attribute a lot of my ability to cut sugar from my diet to how sick I got from it when I was pregnant. I was so sad when I couldn’t exercise as much as I wanted to, and I thought for sure I would pack on extra pounds. I was shocked to find that this pregnancy was the most healthy and fit pregnancy I have had and attribute that 100% to my healthier diet. Once I had Eli, I was already used to avoiding sweets, so I just kept it up.

In my current diet I still avoid sugar like the plague. I’ve also cut out a lot of dairy and only try to eat whole grains (and when I do, I don’t eat a ton of grains in the evenings). When I cook, I usually make dinner for the boys, and then a salad, grilled fish, my steamed veggie rice bowl, or a veggie burger for Garrett and I. Sometimes Garrett needs a little more than a veggie burger to fill him up (I don’t blame him! haha!), and he eats what the boys are eating, but for the most part he eats healthy right along with me.

Cutting sugar from your diet is a lifestyle change that takes commitment. So much of it for me is mental! It also takes planning ahead. These things have really come into play since the holidays have started! Between all the holiday parties coming up and so many sweet sugary temptations. Here are a few tips I found that help me avoid sugar:

Always have healthy snacks on hand.

I have to make sure my kitchen is stocked with my go to snacks: nuts and dried cherries, protein bars, string cheese, apples/bananas and peanut butter, protein drinks, and turkey + avocados. If I don’t have those snacks when I am hungry, I eat chips, a bowl of cereal, or something less healthy that I immediately regret. The healthier I eat, the worse I feel after eating something unhealthy. Also, don’t let yourself get so hungry that you end up shoving whatever is closest/easiest in your face! Eat smaller portions often to keep up your metabolism and to keep from getting so hungry that you don’t have the self control to make a healthy choice.

Know your own personal temptations/limits.

When I make dessert for my family, I very rarely eat it myself. It’s not always easy, but I know myself. I know the second I let myself have a chocolate chip cookie, it’s so much easier for me to have a second, then a third after the boys go to bed, and by then I might as well just eat the rest of them so they stop staring at me the whole night. I’ve learned to buy the types of treats for the kids that I know I won’t be tempted by (ie: Oreos don’t do anything for me, so I’ll get those for the boys, but can’t trust myself with a bag of Nacho Doritos!) If I allow myself to have even just a little, I know I will end up eating way more sweets than I want to. So it’s easier for me to not even have a taste. Garrett is really good at just stopping after one cookie, but I just can’t!

Don’t give into peer pressure.

When I am at my house, I pretty much have total control over the food/snacks that are available. I have cookies and chips for the boys’ lunches, and I have set foods that I eat every single day. I usually stick to eating the same things everyday:

Breakfast: Overnight Oats (I posted this recipe here) or a protein drink

Lunch: Two mozzarella cheese sticks with turkey wrapped around them. I stick this in the microwave for 1 minute to melt it, and I top it with avocado and tomatoes, a veggie burger, or my favorite veggie wrap (I posted the recipe for this here).

Dinner: Grilled fish and veggies, steamed chicken sausage veggie bowl (I posted the recipe for this here), chicken/turkey breast with veggies and brown rice, or an omelette.

The biggest obstacle for me is avoiding sugar when I am at events, parties, dinners, out to lunch, etc. There are always sweets and you will always be offered one. I have to make up my mind before I even leave my house that I’m not going to have one. But the peer pressure can be hard! I find myself eating deserts that I didn’t even want to eat because everyone else is eating them, or because I am worried about offending someone. So I decided that if I was offered something with sugar I wanted to avoid I just say “I’m good, thank you!” right away, with no hesitation. Many times I will eat a protein bar right before an event with sweets so that my sweet tooth is craved, and I don’t get so hungry that I have a hard time saying no.

Write it down.

I’m such a list junkie that I wasn’t surprised at how much writing down everything I ate in a day helped keep me motivated to avoid sugar. There is satisfaction in checking off a goal, so each day without sugar is like a goal that I get to check off! Find out what works for you! Many times I will take a quick snap at the gym and post it over on my insta story along with what I did for my workout. Just something simple like that can leave you feeling accomplished and make you want to keep it up!

Get creative.

We just got back from a huge family reunion where there was a ton of tempting snacks and sweets. I had to get creative on my meals to try and stay healthy. Instead of eating the chicken enchiladas for dinner, I put the chicken filling over lettuce for a salad. And I opted for snacks that were filling, like an apple with peanut butter, to keep from eating chips and soda.

Keep up the workouts.

When I feel good from a workout, I have a harder time putting crap food in my body because I don’t want to counteract that hard work. I’ve found that when I go more than a week without a good workout, I also start slipping in my diet. The two check and balance each other, and I see the most progress when I am doing both consistently.

Of course I splurge every once in a while. I had the most amazing lemon custard dessert for Garrett’s birthday, and I enjoyed every last bite! But I know myself, and if I give in too often, I lose momentum of eating healthy and I go downhill fast. Like I said earlier, so much of it is mental for me! I have to pep talk myself into what I will/won’t eat. It sounds crazy, but it helps! Please let me know if you have any questions in the comments below! I’d be happy to answer them!

SHOP MY LOOK:

in partnership with Nordstrom | photography by Kendra Maarse

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Fashion

November 4, 2016

HOW I GET WORKOUT MOTIVATION + MY CURRENT FAVORITE EXERCISE

One of my most requested posts is for my workout routines and what I eat on a daily basis. I’ve gone back and forth over whether or not I should start sharing because I’m by no means a workout pro! But I decided to start writing a little more about some of the workouts I do at the gym, and a few health tips I have found that work for me to help any of you busy mommas out there! Most of what I do is pretty basic, and I just try to cram as much as I can in the short amount of time I have to exercise.

One thing I have done differently since I started really working out this time, is using weights. In the past I mostly stuck to running and pilates (which I love), but I have really really seen faster results with basic weight training exercises. Squats are my go-to exercise because they tone my legs faster than any other workout, and they work my abs and arms at the same time. My favorite workout to do to tone my inner thighs is this squat below. I started doing them with a 15 lb weight, and now I do them with a 20-25 lb weight. I do a few different kinds of squats, but I always do 2-3 sets of 30 of this particular squat…

This squat is great for toning the inner thigh. Make sure you push your butt out as far as you can when you go down, keep your toes pointed out, and don’t let your knees go further out than your toes.

I’ve always loved to workout. After I had Bradley I trained for and ran two half marathons, and I joke that I felt the very happiest during the time I was training. Happy endorphins are a real thing you guys! Since then I have been kind of in and out of hard core exercising. I definitely go through periods where I feel too stressed, busy, and tired to get out and exercise, but I’ve learned the hard way that those times are when I need to workout the most! I started changing up what I ate when I was pregnant with Eli and cut out a ton of sugar from my diet, and I worked out here and there after he was born. But about six months ago I found myself feeling stressed and overwhelmed with work and just everyday life. I went for weeks without exercise, and I was so down and so negative about myself and all that I had to do. I hated feeling that way, and I knew that physical exercise would help change that. So I started working out wherever I could (backyard, gym, park, etc), and pushed myself to do as much activity as I could in 40-60 minutes. It made such a difference in my attitude and drive! It is so therapeutic for me to take time to focus on working my body and really taking time to tune in to my thoughts. I get some of my best ideas and inspiration during workouts, and I feel so much more accomplished that day. Knowing how good I will feel after a workout is one of the main things that motivates me to get out there and start.

Another huge motivation for me is cute workout gear. I’ve had the same 4-5 tops that I just rotate through for the past year. When I decided to really commit myself, I grabbed some new workout clothes from Nordstrom and they really make me want to workout! I found this Nike sports bra that offers great support and is really comfortable to wear. So many sports bras are too thin and not supportive, so I would highly recommend this one. I am completely obsessed with these Under Armor leggings. I love them so much that I bought them in black too. They are a little thicker, so they hold everything in place, and they’re super flattering. They aren’t see through, so I feel really confident in them! I have a few other leggings that are comfy, but these ones are my favorite right now. This top is lightweight and great quality. I’m wearing a small and I love that it is a little oversized.

Again, I want to emphasize that I am no expert! I’m just showing you what I love to do and what helped strengthen my body. I will be posting more regular health/fitness posts since so many of you have requested it! I love to share products and things that I love, but I also want to make sure I really practice what I preach. I have been posting a bit of these workouts on my Instastory, and I’m excited to start bringing them to life here on Elle Apparel. If there are any specific diet/workout questions you would like me to focus on in these next couple months just let me know in the comments!

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in partnership with Nordstrom | photography by Kendra Maarse

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Fashion

October 23, 2015

EARLY BIRD

JACKET, SPORTS BRA, TANK, SHORTS: COLOSSEUM c/o | JAWBONE UP2 FITNESS TRACKER | SIMILAR NEW BALANCE SHOES

I tried to be as active as I could when I was pregnant with Eli, but at about the 7 month mark of my pregnancy, I basically quit working out. It just hurt! Running was pretty much out of the question, so I just tried to stick to a healthy diet to make up for my lack of exercise. After having Eli, I have been so excited to get back into running/working out. I got a gym membership a few weeks ago and have been running on the treadmill a few times a week in the mornings and it feels great to be active again!

Along with my gym membership, I’ve also been wearing my Jawbone UP2 fitness tracker regularly. I like this band because it’s really slim and feminine. It’s almost a gold color, and looks pretty similar to a bracelet. When I wear it, I don’t feel like it throws off my outfit or looks too masculine on my wrist.

I originally got it because I wanted to keep track of the calories I burn during workouts and to help me keep track of my meals, but it’s helped me in another other way I wasn’t expecting! When I loaded the UP app on my phone, the Jawbone UP2 band automatically kept track of my sleeping habits. Since having Eli, I’m up multiple times during the night to nurse, and it’s hard to find the energy to workout in the mornings. But I feel like I’ve discovered a secret! You can set an alarm on the band to vibrate and wake you up during a set period of time when you are in ‘light sleep’ as opposed to ‘REM sleep’, making it easier to wake up! Both Garrett and I are night owls and hate getting up early, but when my Jawbone UP2 band wakes me up at the right time in my sleep cycle, it is so much easier to get up and go for a run. I had no idea how much I needed this or how much it has helped my overall health. The band helped me identify that 6 hours is the ideal amount of sleep I need to function properly (aka- not in zombie mode) during the day. I’ve found myself being more productive during the day so that I can get to bed a tiny bit earlier in order to get my full 6 hours of sleep. That way the band can wake me up at a time that’s right for my body. Who knew there was actually a way to turn my night owl nature into an early bird!

In collaboration with Jawbone and Collectively

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Health

April 20, 2015

3 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR BODY HEALTHY DURING PREGNANCY

With this being my third pregnancy, I have a pretty good read on what my “pregnant body” needs in order to stay fit and healthy. Just because you are pregnant doesn’t mean you have to let your body fall apart! Since finally feeling human again after the first trimester morning sickness/exhaustion/survival mode, I have really been focusing on my body and keeping it as healthy as possible.

Here are my top 3 ways to keep your body healthy during pregnancy:

STEP 1: STAY ON TOP OF YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE

With pregnancy can come some crazy hormone changes that can lead to breakouts and skin that you aren’t used to dealing with. During this pregnancy I have paid special attention to the kind of products I use on my skin. Because my skin tends to be more sensitive during pregnancy, I use Simple Skincare Moisturizing Facial Wash at night and Simple Skincare Protecting Light Moisturizer (with SPF!) in the morning. I love the Simple Skincare products because they are really gentle on my skin and don’t contain any harsh chemicals that would cause irritation. Both the cleanser and the lotion are made with triple-purified water, so they keep my skin extra hydrated and healthy.

The exhaustion that pregnancy brings can also lead to skipping your nightly skincare routine, which will make potential breakouts even worse. My advice is to wash your face 1-2 hours before even getting ready for bed. That way, when the tired stick hits you, you can just crash without having to spend an extra 10 (*cough* 20 *cough) minutes washing your face.

STEP 2: MAINTAIN A WORKOUT ROUTINE CATERED TO YOUR PREGNANCY

MATERNITY TOP: A PEA IN THE POD | MATERNITY LEGGINGS: A PEA IN THE POD (these have a yoga waistband that goes over the tummy or folds down for after pregnancy. I have to highlight how amazing these leggings are! The softest leggings I have ever felt and I love them just as much as my Lululemons!) | SPORTS BRA: UNDER ARMOR | SHOES: ASICS ‘KAHANA’

Just because your abs are no longer existent doesn’t mean you get to stop exercising! Exercising is so good and beneficial during pregnancy, as long as you do it correctly. Working out can help give you those endorphins during crazy hormonal freak outs, and can help your body bounce back faster once the baby is here. A good rule of thumb that my doctor has always told me is that if I was doing it before pregnancy, I can pretty much still do it during pregnancy. But make sure to listen to your body! If those ligaments are tightening and killing you after too many squats or after a longer run, tone it down. You aren’t working out to lose weight now, you are working out to keep you body healthy, so don’t go overboard. I ran regularly before my pregnancy, so I’m usually fine with a 3 mile run a few times a week. (Cash is my running partner. No joke, that kid can keep up with me no problem! But he does require a rest and fruit snacks every 20 minutes)

In addition to short distance running, pilates are my absolute go-to during pregnancy. I have done them through all of each of my pregnancies and I love how gentle it is on my body, while still working out muscles. Here is my favorite workout from a pilates class I took years ago:

Lay on your back with legs straight and arms to your side. Sick a pillow or two to prop your back/neck up if it’s too uncomfortable to lay flat on your back.
20 reps: Point your right toe and lift your right leg straight up so that it is perpendicular to your body, then lower, in a slow controlled movement.
20 reps: Flex your right foot and while keeping your leg straight, lift it up and diagonal to the right, going as high as you can then back down again.
16 reps: Combine the two moves, point your right leg straight up in the air, back down, then flex and to the diagonal, and back down.
16 reps: Flex your right leg, keep it straight, and move your leg from the right at a diagonal across your body. Think of it as trying to point your heal from one corner of a square room to the corner diagonal from it. (it kills!)

Repeat this with your left leg.

After any run or workout I am usually on the go and don’t have time to get back home and shower right away. So I just keep a pack of Simple Skincare Cleansing Facial Wipes in my car to quickly wash my face with when I am done. It is fast and quick and keeps my skin from drying out and breaking out around my scalp where I sweat the most. Find out how you can #TestTheWater here

STEP 3: KEEP YOUR FRIDGE STOCKED WITH QUICK HEALTHY MEALS

When hunger strikes during pregnancy, you need to eat AND YOU NEED TO EAT NOW! Those hunger pains are no joke and can completely take control of every ounce of healthy food willpower you have. So stay on top of your meals. Don’t wait till you are famished to think about eating. Plan out your meals and eat something every two hours.

I tend to find something I like and make it over and over again, just for the sake of keeping things healthy and quick. There ain’t no time to be baking up some lemon caper salmon for an early brunch to stay healthy. I have kids! and errands! and a million things to do! So my healthy go-to meal that I always have stocked in my fridge is this quick healthy wrap. It only take a few ingredients and doesn’t require any washing, slicing, or dicing:

1 whole wheat tortilla
hummus
deli sliced roasted bell pepper strips
deli sliced peperoncinis
feta
a handful of spinach
red wine vinegar

I just take a whole wheat tortilla, spread some hummus on one side, pile on some roasted bell pepper strips, peperoncinis, feta, a handful of spinach, and a few dashes of red wine vinegar (I use quite a bit, since I love the taste of it). Then wrap it up and you’re done with lunch. It’s got a great flavor, it fills you up, and it’s healthy! So much better than that Diet DP and your kids old Butterfinger right?!

And that’s it! The important part is to do what you can to stay healthy. It will pay off once that baby is here, and you will have a lot less catching up to do to get back into your pre-baby body.

Compensation for this post was provided by Simple Skincare via AOL Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Simple Skincare or AOL.

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ALL EXERCISE IS GOOD EXERCISE

HAVING THE RIGHT WORKOUT GEAR TO COMBAT THE WEATHER

FIGURING OUT MY PEAK ENERGY LEVEL

I MENTALLY PREP FOR MY WORKOUT THE NIGHT BEFORE

HOW I FIT IN MY WORKOUTS WITH KIDS AT HOME

START SLOW AND SMALL, BUT KEEP IT STEADY.

AN EARLY MORNING WORKOUT STARTS WITH AN EARLIER BEDTIME

Shop my lululemon look:

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