Let's Try This Again.

So, here I am! Back and ready to consistently post. November was a bit crazy for me, as was December, January, through now. My father was diagnosed with stage IV Peritoneal Mesothelioma October 30, 2015. It was quite sudden, and my entire family was shaken by this devastating diagnosis.

He passed away five days ago.

In the last week, I've been binge eating and haven't worked out as consistently as I used to (granted, traveling between states will do that). So before I get too carried away, I've decided to get back on track. While I may be grieving, using it as an excuse to eat whatever I want will get me nowhere.

So, onward.

What am I doing? More or less what I was doing, with a few modifications, and a little extra support:

• Apple Cider Vinegar. A few tablespoons every morning and every night before dinner. There's a lot about how this aids in digestion and can be helpful for weight loss, and while I'm not quite sure if that's conclusive, it seems to be a bit of an appetite suppressant for me, so I'll be using it. 
• Incorporation of running. I currently do HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) in addition to the stairclimber and stationary bike for cardio, but I have noticed running challenges me (probably why I don't like it) and want to incorporate it into some of my weekly routines. 
• YOGA. I, like many other gym rats, do not stretch enough. I will admit I am AWFUL at remembering to stretch. I have gotten better, but not good enough. There's a class I've been to at my local gym, and I think it's time I become a regular. Stretching is such an important part of recovery!
• Being more thoughtful about food. This is generally a given, but I am a mindless eater, which is often a recipe for disaster. I'm trying to verbally talk through my decision-making when it comes to food, as well as look for patterns when I am reaching for a sweet or salty snack. 
• Participating in a challenge over at 3FC. While I'm not really tracking pound changes, I am looking for a few inches to come off and cutting muscle (swimsuit season is upon us). I highly recommend anyone looking for weight loss support to join this site; the members are from all walks of life and we're all looking to support one another as we try to reach our own goals. 

I typically strength train 3-4 days per week, focusing on upper body, lower body, and/or core on alternating days. I follow with cardio 2-3 of the those days, and then circuit train 1-2 days per week.

It's gotten me into the best shape of my life (so far) and getting fit has proven to be one of the best decisions I've ever made. 

I'll be back to log my workout tomorrow. If you're interested in post gym-selfies and other randomness...follow me on snapchat at charbreaker.

Cheers!