Tag: workout

My Gym Essentials

Over the last two months or so I have completely fallen in love with lifting weights at the gym. I used to think a good workout had to include cardio, so I dreaded going. To be honest I am sure that I need to be doing more cardio, but for now I am enjoying loving the gym. Since I go to the gym 4-6 days a week now, I have discovered some essentials for my gym bag and I thought I would share them!

My current gym bag is my Stella and Dot crush it backpack. I’m obsessed with this bag! I love that it has a bottom compartment that can fit shoes. There are also straps for a yoga mat on the bottom. I honestly don’t think I’ll travel with another bag. It is easy to clean and fits a ton of stuff. It would make a perfect carry on bag too. If you are looking for a great gym/travel bag, check it out! I currently sell for Stella and Dot and I absolutely love the brand! https://www.stelladot.com/ts/qr29s

Recently I have discovered the brand Gymshark. I love their clothes! For the longest time I would worry that my leggings might be see through, and I’ve finally found a reliable brand that sells high quality gym clothes. Although I believe Gymshark is based out of the UK, shipping is fast and the quality has been great so far. If you are unsure of your size, the website provides measurements.

Preworkout: Currently I am using AlaniNu preworkout. It is the first one I have ever used, and it definitely gives me a boost. But be warned you definitely may get the preworkout “itch” with it.

Lastly, I always carry a resistance band and my headphones. As far as the resistance band goes, you can really grab any brand. But it is a great tool for the gym and for workouts at home. For headphones I am currently using airpods which I love. I was surprised by how well they stay in my ears, and the sound is great. I love having wireless headphones at the gym, and my last pair was really bothersome and always got in the way.

I would love to hear what your go to gym bag/gym essentials are!

New Meal Plan!

After talking with a close friend of mine as well as my trainer, I have decided to go on a strict meal plan. It was made for me by a food scientist. I’m pretty nervous about it, but I am ready for a change! After two months of working out 3-4 days a week, I haven’t seen the changes that I would expect. What it comes down to is nutrition. I have a string of great days, and then inevitably fall off the wagon. The new meal plan will be based on my current macros, and everything is split into calories/carbs/fats/proteins.

I’ve never truly followed a macro based food plan before. I’m hoping that it will be a good way for me to have a better relationship with food, and really understand what I am eating. I will be weighing all of my food out, so my (very neglected) food scale and I will be best friends. I’m also hoping it will get me to my goal of losing 15 pounds.

I would love to hear what meal plans have worked for you! Do you count macros or go by calories? Follow the 80/20 rule? Let me know in the comments!