I mentioned yesterday how fitness hasn’t exactly been a priority in my life lately. But, over the past few weeks, it has become an old habit that I’m starting to miss. I may not be running a marathon any time soon, and I may not even implement actual “workout sessions,” but having at least some sort of health/fitness routine definitely makes me feel better and even helps me manage other areas of my life too.
So here are a few ways I’m going to start slowly but surely implementing health and fitness back into my life.
1. walk, walk, and walk some more.
No, I’m not talking about the “Walk Yourself Fit” workout I may or may not used to do in my basement…
Haha, wow.
Living in New York City and not having a car has definitely caused me to walk more than ever, and I love it. I’ve always thought that walking is the most underrated form of exercise, and I’m now coming to realize that it’s also my personal favorite form. And it’s not just about covering miles/burning calories – walking gives me a chance to just chill, observe the world around me, and think/pray/reflect.
Like I said, I already walk a ton, but I think I’m going to try to up it even more. With the weather warming up, I’d love to start walking to work in the mornings and also take advantage of walking destinations like Central Park and along the Hudson.
2. join a gym…maybe.
This is a tough one because it really comes down to the fact that gyms here are just so darn expensive. As much as I love going to the gym (yep, I’m a machine girl), I don’t know if I can justify spending $100+ each month. I am going to look into some different options, though, and decide if it’s worth it to me.
3. push ups!
For some reason, I’ve established in my head that (real) push ups are one of the defining aspects of fitness. I used to not be able to do a single one, and getting myself up to 20 consecutive was a huge achievement. Right now I can do about 10-15 push ups, and I want to aim to do that every. single. morning. It’s one of those “it all adds up” things that will take a mere 30-60 seconds out of my day.
4. eat at home at least 3 times a week.
You might be thinking, “at least 3 times a week??” Yes, friends – truth be told – I can’t even tell you the last time I made an actual meal. I don’t think I have to explain that after a long day of work, it’s much easier to just grab takeout (or cereal, ahem) and call it a day. To be honest, I don’t really mind this so much health-wise as I do budget-wise. Eating out all day/every day definitely adds up, and if I plan on possibly joining a gym at some point, I’m going to have to come up with at least some sort of eat-at-home meal plan.
5. eat more produce.
Okay, so number 4 might not actually come to fruition. But – even if I’m going to eat out often, homegirl needs a heck of a lot more produce-action in her life. The thing is that I actually love fruit and veggies, it’s just more a matter of convenience/cost that often leads me to scones and protein bars. But, whether it’s a massive salad from Whole Foods or fruit atop my daily frozen yogurt, it’s just gotta happen.
So, as you can see, there are definitely no major changes going on here, and that’s exactly what I’m going for. Sometimes I wish health/fitness was more of a priority in my life (like it used to be), but…it’s just not. This is what works for me!
Describe your fitness routine – is it laid back? Structured? Are you training for anything?
I’m definitely trying to add more structure - I’ve gotten way too lax with it that it ended up getting wiped off the board completely! However, it sounds like you’re getting out there and living your life, instead of freaking over fitness, which is totally worth it at times! Nobody ever will look back and say “gee, I wish I’d ran three miles instead of hitting the cafe with my best friends”.
i do a zumba class 3x a week and that helps to tone my muscles and balance the not so good food i eat sometimes….see if there are any zumba classes in NYC, theres gotta be…it’s so fun!!
I am going to start training for a marathon in August so I’m trying to stay fit until then but I’m starting to burn out a bit with my normal running routes:( Luckily I’m going on a two month vacation of sorts where my running routes will be switched up so hopefully that will help!
I like your goals - those push-ups will definitely add up quickly! My fitness routine is pretty structured. I aim for 5 days a week, but it used to be 6 or 7, so I guess I’ve slacked from where I used to be. I just don’t have the time or energy that I did in undergrad! Oh well. Something is always better than nothing, right?
Hi girl!
I gotta say I’m loving this Manhattan fase of your life.
Your goals are just fine, and with some schedule adjustments, it’s gonna be a peace of cake to fallow them. I guess if I could walk/jogg/run at Central Park everyday, that would be a reason itself for me to be motivaded, right? You don’t need a gym, maybe when winter comes for real.
I’ve started lifting weights with a personal trainner (of course, here in brasil, in the city I live in, the price of that is similar to the price you pay to go to the gym, only) and it’s been great, I’m feeling better than ever! You see, I live in a small city and de views aren’t that beautiful, that’s why I rather go to the gym instead.
Enjoy NYC and work out on the streets!
I couldn’t agree more with the walking aspect of NYC. I run when I can but I quit my gym because it’s $80! It’s so much money to work out here. However, since quitting the gym and walking wayyyy more I haven’t gained any weight. Take THAT treadmill
Plus walking does save subway fare!
Gahhh, so exciting to see someone embrace not wanting to exercise all the time and listening to it! I love walking. When I was at school I would always walk around the perimeter of campus and I enjoyed so much seeing all the people and everything going on. I think it’s definitely underrated as an exercise form. When you’re covering the same distance, what does it really matter? yay walkers!
A walkin DVD? Is that just..a video of someone walking? I’ve never seen that before!
Esepcially now I’ve got another marathon coming up and I’m coming back from injury - I need a structured workout system to keep me on track 
I’m pretty structure - I thrive on routine and structure
Hey Gracie!
Long time reader and subscriber
I totally love the goals. Walking is awesome and great for toning those model like gams.
Can I ask you where you got your yoga cupcake shirt? I totally want one!
Aw, yay! It’s from my t-shirt shop. I’m going to be updating it this week, but here’s the link! http://balancedfoodie.spreadshirt.com/
Awesome, I was just going to ask about the shirt too! Love it!
My fitness routine is a little bit of both. I make it a priority to work out almost every day, but as far as what I actually do during my workouts, it all depends on my mood. I try to roll with whatever I’m feeling at the moment. If I want to bike, I bike, and if I want to do a belly dance video then I shimmy to my little heart’s content.
I used to do Walk Away the Pounds with my mom when I was in high school.
I still do Walk Away The Pounds, and I’m in college.
I feel like as 20 somethings, this is a natural stage in our life. Going out, eating out, being with friends.. it’s not always the most healthful time of our life (hello near daily happy hour), but it sure is one of the most fun! I live in a city that’s really walkable too, especially to classes and such. I walk a few miles a day without even noticing. I get to the gym when I can, usually 3x a week or so. I’m just way more concerned with enjoying my life in other ways to spend it in the gym
YES. You took the words out of my mouth
My go to activity is definitely walking as well. Easy, don’t need equipment, and can be done anywhere at any time. On the weekends I try to cook a bunch of food so that I don’t have to spend much time cooking during the week, because…let’s be honest. Who really wants to cook dinner after a long day of work at 8 or 9 pm. Nope. Not me.
I live for structure (maybe a little bit too much!) I am the opposite of you. I eat at home every single night. I also make my lunch and bring it to work.. every single day. I schedule out my gym sessions - what I am going to do cardio wise.. write down my strength training routines… try and follow everything as possible.
I like to strength train at least 3 days a week..and do cardio (usually running, kickboxing, step classes, spinning) 5 days a week. I usually stick to it.
Wow, that sounds intense! Do you enjoy it?
I really do. I love being active… and it really bring my mood up. Planning really helps to keep me organized. Sometimes, I think I go over board with my routines.. like I get anxious when thigns don’t work (not good) and I am REALLY trying to go with the flow more. I don’t know how I got to be so routine oriented. I guess it all started when I moved out and got a real job - and felt that I really needed to use my time wisely.
I think I’m kind of in the same boat, Cait. And I just want to say don’t ever feel bad for having a routine/structure! Moving out and having your first ‘real job’ comes with SO many crazy days/emotions that having an exercise routine/schedule can be a really positive thing!
I went to university when I was 17 and lived in a big, European city where the drinking age is 16, so I feel like being committed to health and exercise at this point in my life isn’t ‘getting in the way’ of having that fun, young life. I still go out with my friends, but while my American friends who are still 21 or 22 want to go crazy and be wild, I feel like I’m over it. So my point is just that we’re all at different stages in our lives and exercise is always a good thing, whether you do it casually or structure it.
Awww. thank you so much. There are people in my life who sometimes make me feel like I am crazy for following to my routines so strictly. Your comment means a lot to me!
I think that as long as you’re happy and still cultivating relationships in your life, it’s all good!
Now can you guys send some of that routine/structure my way? I think I could use some 
My fitness routine is pretty laid back. I’m not training for anything specific at the time, but I just like the feeling of being able to complete my runs. I usually do my 5-mile route, but unlike in the past, I don’t get freaked out if activities come up and interfere with my running times. Sometimes I’ll need to take a day or 2 off, and that’s OK. I also love to go for walks with my mom and sister
I’m a firm believer in walk, walk, walk!
I work out 4x’s per week, but it’s pretty moderate and relaxed.
Since I do triathlons my workouts tend to be on the structured side, but I think you have a great attitude about fitness!
I try to do intense cardio at least 4 times per week and since I attend classes, that part is pretty structured.
I am training for the Warrior Dash in September, basically a 5k with hills, calisthenics, upper body, and lots of mud. I don’t expect to be graceful, but I do want to finish.
I basically just look through my FitTv OnDemand and choose a workout every other morning. Lately I’ve been loving Bethenny Frankel’s yoga DVD. It is actually a really good workout.
I am like you in that I walk walk walk! Those little steps add up. I also agree that push ups are the ultimate. If I don’t go to the the gym I always make sure to do some push ups and some plank exercises
I used to be super structured with my workouts but have since calmed down a bit. I try to focus on getting something in everyday (btw, love the push up goal!). I am currently training for a half marathon so the structure is back, and trust be told, I kind of like my “slack” routine a little more!
My fitness routine is actually pretty structured. I try to split it between gym time and running pretty evenly- rotating every other day. I live an active life but love the feeling of actually getting a really good workout.
Moving to the “big city” without my car has me walking EVERYWHERE… honestly I dont know how Ill survive when I move back to my small town and get a car, it’s going to feel WEIRD!!!
… Um, I love that cupcakes and yoga tshirt… can i ask where you got it?!
http://balancedfoodie.spreadshirt.com
Sounds like a good plan to me! If I lived in NY too, I would defo take advantage of it’s walk factor! In Mumbai, the roads are awfully uneven and walking is unpleasant! Because of that, I’m a gym girl! 5 days a week in the morning before work! It works for me and it gives me a great start to the day!
ahhh i love your freckles. Never noticed them before now. I have tons!
I like your style of working out. I do think a more relaxed approach is actually more beneficial. Working out isnt so much of a chore. I wish I was more relaxed about working out.
I love that shirt! Too cute
WOW sounds like I wrote this post. Seriously. You and I think the same about gyms - why are they so darn expensive then i feel bad missing a day which is not healthy . I think walks are fabulous and have been adding them in. Walking counts! Also love that you think pushups are the epitome of fitness… haha so do i!
Have a great Thursday.
I think your plan sounds great! I’m a firm believer that little changes are the things that can really make a difference, especially because I know that when I try to make huge ones, I’m more likely to not follow through. I’m right there with you about the walking! I felt the best when I lived in London and was walking everywhere! I’m also working on making a transition like you just did and hope my new place will allow me to walk more too! I’m also debating the gym thing… it’s just so expensive! I’ve also been considering yoga works because I feel like it’s somewhere that I will actually go… but we’ll see!
I totally agree about walking as exercise. It’s cheap, easy and effective!
My fitness routine has become much more relaxed lately since starting my summer job. I only workout 3x a week now, which is a huge change from the 6x a week I used to do.
I agree with your little changes plan! I recently started a lifetyle change toward being healthier. I joined weight watchers, started zumba dvds (love these for an at home workout!), and have been more conscious about nutrition overall!
I live in NYC too and agree that these changes can take a toll on the wallet! I love the fruit stand guys because they sell the fruit cheaper than some delis that seem to think that charging $5 for a small fruit salad is ok lol
Good luck on your journey! Hope to see more blogposts on it =]
I can definitely resonate with all of the above! I have come to a very happy place with food/working out but I tend to like to work out at least 4-5 days a week.. some sort of cardio has to be included in there! NYC is all about the walking-you can’t always take cabs (a little pricey, yes?) and it’s a great form of both movement and head-clearing! I am SO jealous you are going to fitBlog conference!!! Enjoy every minute!
I like to run about 4 times per week and bike 2 times per week, and always have AT LEAST one day of rest. But lately I’ve been having two rest days and I’m totally okay with that. I believe you should push yourself, but not so hard that you start to hate exercise. Its something that should be enjoyed!
I try to always switch the schedule up- weights and cardio. And of course Body Pump- I’m seriously obsessed! Mmm body pump does a body good!!
I love your approach to healthy eating and fitness! Walking is also my favorite form of exercise. It doesn’t seem like exercise- which makes it a definite winner, and it’s my “me” time. Walking is also a great time to learn to take a deep breath, and enjoy the world around you.
I’m getting ready for a 5k for later this month! I’ve been training for 5 weeks, now!
I think your fitness plan is GREAT for your situation, right now! So good job!
I agree…Walking is definitely an underrated form of exercise! Sometimes I wish I lived in a city where walking from place to place was more common. Instead, I live in a suburb/city where people stare at you like you’re CRAZY because you decided to walk to the store which is less than a 1/4 mile from your home!
Structured…sometimes a little too structured as I have to wake my arse up at 5am to workout pre shower/commute to work..ugh…you get used to it I guess…and then I run late so I can’t even enjoy a nice NYC walk in the morning from the PATH train, I have to hop on a subway for two more stops and waste $$ lol…. how far do you live from work? You can take advantage of walks/jogs in the city atleast with the nice weather (well not this week but you know)
Your goals sound awesome, and definitely realistic! I loved when I used to work in NYC because you really walk everywhere and it is such awesome exercise!
[...] here: my laid-back fitness plan. | girl meets life. This entry was posted in Uncategorized and tagged even-, exactly-been, has-become, life, [...]
Ugh, I’m trying to decide if I should join a gym or not too. It’s a lot of money and I live in the beautiful running area (I’m a terrible runner but working to improve), but I love working out on machines. I’m having elliptical withdrawls.
i’m just glad to hear that i’m not the only one.
i, too, go through spurts of exercise/no exercise. i’m in a rut right now, too.
i’m pretty laid back when it comes to exercising. i hate running, but try to do it every once in a while, but usually stick to walking, too.
I feel the same way! I used to be all healthy food all fitness all the time. That got old and working all the day, it got put on the back burner. And for a while? I loved the freedom. But now I’m sick of not exercising as much as I want and eating unhealthy and processed foods.. I’m really trying to incorporate more whole foods and more exercise in my life!
Chrissy, my cousin Dana, and I all do my virtual workouts and they love it! Gyms are expensive plus its good to mix it up with strength training intervals. It gives us a chance to “hang out” in a way, it’s super challenging, and they only last between 15-25 minutes!
Let me know if you want to give one of those another try.. we do both mornings and evenings!
Love ya!
Cole*
I love it! There are days for intense workouts, but there are also days and weeks for laid back workouts. When I want to take it easy, I do a lot of walking and yoga and shorter runs (3 miles or so).
[...] laid back-fitness plan, take two. You may remember how a few weeks ago I posted my laid-back fitness plan. It was a good plan - one that I really could and intended to follow. But, do you want to [...]
I’m pretty sure we have a similar approach! I do something active on most days but vary intensity, duration, setting, equipment, etc. No matter what I do however, I always make it fun and fresh and never take it too seriously.
Cheers!