FITNESS: Post Workout Nutrition

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I go pretty hard in the gym. I have been working with a trainer for a few years, and strength training is very important to me. I believe that lifting weights is especially important for women, since it strengthens your bones and can help you reach new levels of fitness.

Still, as important as working out is, refueling the right way after working out is just as important.

After a workout, I put a scoop of protein into my shaker bottle. I use either vegan milk or water, depending on my taste preferences for the day. If I want to enjoy a shake and I’m not going to eat my next meal for a bit, I’ll use almond or coconut milk with my protein powder. If I just want to get my protein in without a big fuss, I’ll use water. Lately I’ve been using vegan protein.

I love my About Time protein, and already used up my vanilla flavor tub that I purchased this summer. Now I’m scraping the bottom of my chocolate flavor! There is also a birthday cake flavor, and a cinnamon roll one. This is a great brand that uses stevia instead of artificial sweeteners.

When on a recent allergen-free cleanse, where I cut out dairy, soy, corn, wheat, and processed sugar, I discovered Hammer Vegan protein. It’s tasty and GMO free. I find it easy to digest and keep it in regular rotation even while off my cleanse.

There are certainly other methods for getting that necessary dose of protein after a good workout, but this is my favorite way. Simple, easy, and perfect for on the go days.

Have you started using protein shakes after workouts? What flavors do you like? Let me know what else is out there to try!

Happy working out, ladies!

-Rose

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Fitness & Food: YOGA

I’ve entered the world of stretching – elegant, yoga stretching…. Though trust me, my yoga technique is far from elegant.  Let’s say I’m on the foot path to elegance.  

I am not a yoga girl blessed with a lithe slim body, nor am I able to put my big toe on top of my head.  I’m that solid girl, strong legs, strong arms – more comfortable helping you lug furniture.

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I’ve been forced to yoga by pain and discomfort after realizing that it was getting hard for me to turn my head to the left.  I’d hit the end of some kind of road – frankly it could be possibly driving on any road since moving your head from side to side seems to me to  be a critical driving skill.

Humility accompanies me and my sturdy but inflexible body as I learn the practice that is yoga – focused, quiet, progress.  I like it actually.

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I am glad to be learning the moves; glad to be pushing and strengthening my mind and body in this way.   I am relaxing my neck and back and legs little by little.  Getting that neck of mine unstuck…

Where else am I stuck?  I will ponder.

Where are you stuck?

Namaste.

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