Conquering the Push-Up

Like I mentioned in my last post, push-ups and me are not friends. We're not even acquaintances. We're more like Facebook friends that ignore each other. 

This summer however, I want to turn us into Instagram besties. 

A few ways I plan to tone up my arms and get rid of the bra bulge is to add more mountain climbers and take more Kettle Bell classes when possible.

Last month Refinery29 had an amazing 30 day plank challenge which my SO and I accepted during my core month. Sidenote, isn't it so much easier when you have a fitness buddy when it comes to burning calories? Alright, so after a round of web-surfing I found another 30 day challenge geared towards push-ups. Not sure if I'll be able to bust out 50 push-ups at the end, but I'm definitely going to give it a go.

Here are a few more articles found while web-surfing:

- Another seven easy moves to get killer arms.

- Add some of these tracks to your workout playlist for an added boost.

- An easy breakfast recipe to help anyone start on the right foot. 

And remember, a hour workout is 4% of your day. 30 minutes is even less, so let's get moving!

Photos via Lucy.com

Lucy, Let's Go!

After training so hard and making sure to eat right for the last few months, a fitness break was gloriously needed. And by fitness break I mean Netflix marathons and lots of MunchAdo.com (like Seamless but better) ordering. 

Everything in moderation, you know. Until it's time to jump back on the "summer is coming" bandwagon.

I'm going to separate running from my fitness classes because if I'm going to be entirely honest, de-stressing makes me get up and run. It's my only chance to be utterly alone and take in the silence (besides my heavy breathing). In NYC, those moments are few and far between, so I'll take them every chance I get.

Unfortunately running doesn't work out all of my body parts and so I rely on sweat-inducing Tone House and Bikram classes. And for those classes, I really need that extra motivation to get through a single push-up. A fitness goal of mine, by the way.

Sunglasses: Target (similar)  Lipbalm: EOS  Tee: c/o Lucy  Yoga Pants: c/o Lucy  Shoes: Birkenstock  Yoga Bag: Sakroots

My little bits of motivation tend to come from Lucy for their performance wear and different styles that work with and not against me. In fact, for the Brooklyn Half my entire outfit (sans sports bra) was entirely Lucy - it battled heat, wind, and even a heavy rain shower.

In the end it left me without chafing or an unbearable heat rash. Plus the clothes were cute and as cliché as it sounds, when you look great you feel great. And in my case, push yourself harder (in class) to do two push-ups instead of one cause you're so great. 

P.s. If you're in the market for a canvas yoga bag, this one from Sakroots is breathable and at a great price point.

Photos by Victor Cerejo.

Shop the look:

The Core of it All

Getting fit isn't the easiest lifestyle change. Even I have a hard time waking up early for runs or getting myself to a class via Classpass. But in the end, I think about how I'll feel afterwards and treat myself (this month's mantra for sure).

With the Brooklyn Half happening this weekend (ahh! can't wait) I've been putting more focus on my core. Your core (the entire midsection including the back) is what stabilizes your body during your day to day and reduces risk for injury when kept strong and flexible. 

Another benefit to keeping your core in tip-top shape - better posture. A must if you work behind a computer all day long, as I do.

While I am no certified trainer, I'm an avid collector (pinner if you must) of great workouts and articles that can work for almost anyone:

- Refinery29 has a great 30 Day Plank Challenge you can do. I'm starting it on Monday and would love it if you joined me. Not sure how to do a plank, watch this.

- If you're in NYC and looking for a no-frills ab class that gets the job, check out Absolutions. I go once a week and feel better for it everytime.

- Got an early class? Pre-pack your workout bag to make getting out the door easier. Find more hacks here. 

- Stretching your core is equally important. Set an alarm midday for a brisk walk and a few desk side stretches. This infographic has 17 different ones to try this week.

- Want to take it to the next step with a full body workout? I've heard great things about the Bikini Body Guide. The price is a little steep so try snooping around eBay (didn't hear that from me).

- You might want to focus on foot health and safety, too. Check out these The Good Feet Store reviews for some examples of how you can help with this.

- Find a few fashion-forward pieces from Lucy. I swear, new activewear that looks and feels good is like a welcomed boost of motivation. Plus, their new SS15 collection is bananas.

I've been contemplating whether I should share my fitness schedule or what my day-to-day (kind of like what I eat, do, etc.) looks like. If you think it would be helpful or are curious about it - let me know in the comments :).

Imagery via Lucy.