Let's talk weight-lifting

Oh hey, remember how last year I got the death sickness and was out of commission for like two weeks? And how I said that I never get sick and it was so bizarre? Guess who is recovering from bronchitis....this girl.

Ugh.

I'm starting to think the state of Arizona hates my immune system! It's all out of whack. Needless to say, I have taken a break from working out due to wanting to die every single day. But I think I am finally almost over it and slowly working my way back to the gym.

So, a couple of weeks ago, I bought the book The New Rules of Lifting for Women. I had seen it around a few of the blogs and it sounded like something I wanted to try. Weight lifting is completely brand new to me. Sure I do a machine or two in the gym, but I've never had a routine or quite frankly really never knew what exactly to do.

This book has a TON of information. TON. And after you read it, you are super pumped to get started! However, there is one tiny  big thing that has been eating away at me...

INTIMIDATION.

Oh wait. You mean I actually have to go to the gym and try this exercises....in front of people? With equipment I really have no idea how to use?  Because let's be serious y'all...some of these moves are just designed to make you look awkward.

I'm trying to find the courage to start this program because I think it really will be something new & beneficial. Anyone else out there that has done this? Or tips on how to make me not drop a weight on myself or completely look like a spaz?

Shoes!

So here is probably one of the most asked question from a runner: What type of shoes do you run in?

I currently run in Saucony Kinvaras:

 I like them well enough. I like having a light shoe and I've never had a problem with heel strike, so this is a good fit for me. I tend to run more on the balls of my feel than anything. However, it do tend to get blisters on the inside of my feet while wearing the Kinvaras. Maybe these shoes are not wide enough or I just have crappy feet. Or both.

So it's about that time for me to pick up another pair of shoes. The Kinvara now has a Kinvara2, which I'm contemplating. But I'm also thinking about trying a pair of Newtons:

Any of you guys tried this shoe before?? It's almost twice as expensive as the Kinvaras, that's why I'm a little hesitant.

Or, alternatively, which shoe is your go-to?

The gym dilemma

So, I feel pretty guilty going to the gym when it's been so nice outside. I would much rather run outside then hop on the dreadmill, but then I start thinking "Well, you're paying for this membership. You better use it!"

This will happen to me one day. I just know it.

So you guys that have gym memberships: how do you find a good balance between the two? And what's your routine at the gym? I'm too much of a weanie to ask one of the trainers for recommendations, so that's why I'm coming to you. :)

Also - did i mention I turned 30 last month? Yeah, I didn't. Because it depresses me. (No offense to any one) but 30 just sounds so OLD! I did manage to stop feeling sorry for myself long enough to go out with a bunch of friends that night for karaoke. I was a 90s rap superstar that evening!