Hummus and tabouleh? I’d get that every single time!!

When I need to get over a hump I remind myself of everyhting I have accomplished and everything I still want to do. That usually gives me the buttkick I need.

I get over fitness humps by listening to my favorite upbeat songs on my iPod. If that doesn’t work, I turn the volume up (but not too loud where I can’t hear things around me) and focus only on the music.

starting to read all of these lovely blogs is what tipped me into my routine healthy eating. It was so easy when you knew lots of people were doing it and succeeding, plus it was easier to find new and delicious meals

I swapped from processed “health” foods to natural, real foods.

There’s nothing healthy about low cal yoghurt with aspertame. There’s nothing healthy about fat free cookies.

My turning point came when I realized how I ate directly impacted how I feel. It makes it a lot easier to eat more veggies when I remember how it makes me feel!

the best thing i did was change it up…so when i hit a hump in running, i started cycling and taking step classes instead, and vice versa. have fun with your mom!

To get over fitness humps, I make sure to schedule the difficult workouts to be shared with someone. That way, they hold me accountable (and vice versa), and I have someone to talk to so that I’m not focused on how much it hurts! : )

Yes, I’ve definitely hit a fitness hump. I got through it with time and determination. Sometimes it takes a while, but don’t give up, your body will find that point again where it finally catches up with your brain.

When I hit a fitness bump I try to switch gears to something completely new to re-excite an urge to exercise. It’s actually led to me trying a lot of new things that have become staples in my workout routine (kickboxing, yoga, pilates) and some that I did once and never looked back (boxing boot camp!)

🙂

I usually just remind myself that it’s natural and try something new. I ran the Disney Marathon in January too and had a tough time with injuries afterward. I know that if I keep training like I was before the marathon my injuries will continue, so right now I’m experimenting with barefoot running and vibrams. It’s keeping things interesting and fun.

I hit a major slump between running the Chicago marathon 2009 and running Goofy in 2010. I got out of it by not putting to most pressure on my time goal. Try keeping your goal pace for just 2 of the 4 miles and increase it to 3 out of the 4 once doing 2 becomes easier and so on. Also once every three weeks try a throwing in a mini self race. I find the more goals I set the easier it is to push myself. Hope that helps!! You can do it.

I hate saying this BUT sometimes hitting that fitness hump that you can’t get over is your body’s natural way of telling you that you need a break. It could be that stressors are taking away from the extra energy that people use to push over those humps. Giving your body a “break” and listening to it might just be enough to get you over that hump in a few weeks once life settles down. And maybe its trying to increase speed while doing Jillian’s crazy workouts and you body can’t recover. If you relax and give your body a chance it will pick it up! Unfortunately for me, I tore my meniscus after my PR’ed Half Marathon in March, so my mind wants me to be running where/how I was 4 months ago but my body (knee) is telling me thats not going to happen. Accepting that I am no longer a runner for the time being, my body finally relaxed and lost the 5lbs I’ve been trying to lose WHILE running! Go figure!! Good luck!

I couldn’t imagine doing the elliptical one more time…so I didn’t for a while. I got over whatever mental resistance I had to the stairclimber (being told it would give you monster thighs) and tried new weights.

I find that training for some sort of race always helps me get over my hump! Maybe once you’re settled in Charlotte you can sign up for another race?

Also, you might want to just focus on doing the UPPER BODY part of NMTZ. I’ve found that with my marathon training that I’m doing right now I can’t do any lower body strength or it kills my legs so I just use weights on my upper body a couple times a week!!

Good luck, I’m sure your fitness will come back to you. This is really only the first week you’re settled in one place and working out consistently again! Give it some time 🙂

One of my biggest turning points in balanced eating was recognizing the importance of a big, filling breakfast. I’ve always been a breakfast eater, but it used to be sugary cereal or toast with jam, and it was probably 300 cal or less. I gradually amped up breakfast to 500-600 calories of oatmeal w/fruit, nut butters, and milk, and it sets the tone for a whole day of healthy eating!

To get over that “hump” I usually think of all the things that are holding me back, and they are usually just silly lazy reasons.Those reasons are never great enough to keep me seated for too long. Also, reading blogs of inspiring people help me get motivated!

I agree that you should cut yourself some slack b/c of the move! Even once you’re in, it’s still exhausting (but fun!) doing all of the decorating.

My fitness bumps are usually injury-related: knee problems, plantar fasciitis, etc. So, I usually just try to take a little time off and do what I need to do for my body, and then slowly get back to where I was before. Don’t know how helpful that is, but that feta sure looks tasty!

You seem to have had a lot of changes, a new schedule, and new environment. It’s a lot for your body to take in, and maybe you need some rest days. I can also see how the strength videos plus running fast can make your quads scream. They don’t get time off.
And yum feta.

#2 – yes, my habits have definitely changed. i am way quicker to choose a healthy meal at a restaurant rather than going with what i was craving (most likely pasta). i also drink a lot more water and am always conscious if im getting enough whole grains, proteins, fruits and veggies, etc.

To get over my current hump of not feeling motivated to increase my cardio fitness, i signed up for a 5K. my first one ever! I think the goal is really helping because i find myself pushing harder and harder when i workout because i have a goal and i want to accomplish it in under 40 minutes (which for some it is not problem, but for a severe asthmatic thats huge! haha)

when I hit fitness humps I do one of two things. one, it seems simple and perhaps a bit mundane, but I find great music to make me pumped! a few weeks ago I was stressed from life and work and school and exercising was not exciting me – so I loaded up my shuffle with the ENTIRE music catalog of glee as well as a few songs that remind me of people I love (the ones I want to get healthy for), so when I am running and I don’t think I can push through, a GREAT song turns on that makes me smile and I get psyched again! OR I remind myself that exercise is supposed to be fun, not a chore, by subbing in a new thing (even if it’s just for a day) like a ballet class, hot yoga or my new favorite thing – a Boxing class!

When I reach a fitness hump, I do a really short workout and congratulate myself on doing anything at all 🙂

When I encounter a hump, I get involved in a different activity that gets me excited about working out again instead of dreading it. It may not be something as intense or long or sweaty….or maybe it is…..but I ALWAYS tell myself that I’m doing *something* which beats parking it on the couch! 🙂

I find that if I do more than one speedwork/tempo run a week I am just exhausted. you may need to start alternating … so I do a tempo run one week, then next week I do speedwork. Just remember to alternate easy/hard runs! Your body can’t race each time you head out on the road 🙂

Whole wheat and whole grains are natural choices for me now. I never eat white bread, barely eat white pasta and *rarely* eat white rice (too good to give up sometimes!).

When I start feeling like I’m in a training slump, I stop running to run and start running to get places or see things. I was recently on a business trip in a new city, and one of the days I really wasn’t feeling like working out but I did want to do some sightseeing. So I ran around the city and took pictures. My time was surprisingly good and I covered a lot more ground than I would have walking. Being in a new city, you have the perfect opportunity to explore. And if you’re worried about speed, then set a location for yourself and say that you want to be there in X number of minutes. It’s really nice when you can give a purpose to your run.

My turning point came when I realized how much better I felt when I fuel properly for my workouts. It made all of the difference in the world!

I encounter fitness “humps” all the time. Usually when my body gets used to a certain activity. When this happens, I will throw in something short and intense to “shock” my body. For example, tabata exercises, intense intervals with minimum rest between exercises, plyometrics, etc. Even if these intense short workouts are only 15 minute sessions, they make a huge difference.

I had a major fitness slump after my daughter was born. I gained a LOT of weight during pregnancy and it did NOT fall of while breastfeeding like everyone swore it would. Shortly after my daughters 1st b-day I realized that I was going to have to work hard to get my pre-baby bod back. I joined a gym, got a trainer and got addicted to working out. My body felt amazing and started looking pretty darn good too 😉
My daughter is 4 now and I am healthier and happier than ever!

I’m in the same post move slump as you right now! I’m trying to get back into things by doing workout videos but I have only has time to do the 30 day shred instead of p90x. Oh well. I’ll keep trying!

I got over my fitness hump by adding different and additional workouts in..I’ve recently taken up bikram yoga and swimming. The low impact helps keep my body happy and it’s still a workout:)

First of all I really enjoy reading this blog and how honest you are when you are having a fitness struggle! We all do! My turning point was just recently…after years of always thinking I needed to be on a “diet” to be healthy I just sat here one day and realized…NO! I can eat amazing food and be healthy without having to follow some diet book!( I used to think peanut butter and avacado were “bad” crazy I know!) Now when I see a certain amount of fat or calories in something I don’t freak out over the number I simply ask myself, is it healthy natural ingredients that are good for me or should I pass because it’s something processed and won’t leave me feeling as good or satisfied as I should! I have to also say that I think by reading this blog and others it has opened my eyes to see that being healthy is about a balance..something I really never had until recently!

Man, I hope I win this – nothing betta than feta!

My big turning point came when I noticed how much better research animals get treated compared to the animals we eat (which make up a far larger percentage of animals in the world). It led to me gradually becoming vegetarian and being vegetarian made cravings for lots of unhealthy stuff fall away (like sweets and fatty things). It’s weird, but I love the way I feel now so eating stuff that takes that feeling away and messes with my digestion isn’t as tempting.

Yes, my tipping point actually was when I stopped counting calories and started seeing food as fuel instead of numbers. Suddenly, I started craving veggies and fruit and less grains and sweets. It was weird. o.O

I hope you overcome your fitness hurdle soon! =)

I think my turning point became habit when I realized how much more energy and how positive I felt from working out and making better food choices. Made the whole process so much easier… now that doesn’t mean i don’t indulge every now and then tho… i sure do

i’m currently in a fitness hump…i HATE that i can’t do what i used to do. it’s so hard to not think about that and stay present. i think what’s helping me is that deep down i KNOW i will get there, and probably be more in shape than i ever have been, and also appreciate it that much more.

i did NMTZ for the first time on sunday – OMG, i still am sore!

I face fitness humps and hurdles all the time! I always tell myself that tomorrow is a new day and try and try again! Just like with my healthy food choices 🙂 If I have a cookie..or some icecream…it’s not going to kill me, I just make up for it the next day with healthier options!

I found some inspiring fit friends to help motivate me.

I have definitely had my share of fitness humps…sometimes it is just no fun to workout or I feel stuck in a workout rut-every workout drags on and there’s no motivation. Whenever I get this way, I try to make one big change in my fitness routine. I will go to a hot n sweaty bikram class or try a new fitness class to change things up! always seems to work:)

I used to struggle a lot with healthy eating on the weekends. Now I wake up every weekend and have a hearty, healthy breakfast! That keeps me from eating or slipping up on my nutrition for the rest of the day!

When I finally realized I couldn’t use dance as my general and ongoing fitness routines I let myself backslide in a big way. What has finally helped me get over my hump is really leaning on friends to encourage me and help me push through the tough spots. I haven’t completed my first race yet, but I’m already planning on running another half marathon in January with my cousins who live in Arizona. We created a facebook page and are all following each other’s progress (even though it’s way early).

From what I can tell you already have an awesome support system in place. =D Maybe the No Trouble Zone video isn’t quite the right fit? Or, maybe it’s just adding something small in, like a little meditation before your run or just after your run?

I have encounted various workout humps. New music inspires me to keep going, and changing things up with new types of cardio keeps my motivated. And to be honest, sometimes taking a good long break helps me refocus.

I wish I had more advice for you, but I’m sure you’ll rock it out =)

I DEFINITELY hit that same hump a few weeks ago where my quads were always burning and my legs were always tired, and I hadn’t really changed my training or increased miles or anything. I realized I wasn’t sleeping enough, for starters, and I also focused on hydration, even though I usually never have a problem with my water intake. I took a week “off” (I did one easy run and one day of easy biking). I took an ice bath, and I focused on stretching and eating a lot of protein and vitamin C for tissue repair.

The next week, I made sure to run at a comfortable pace on FLAT ground, and now a month later I’m back to incorporating speed, hills, etc. But it was very frustrating at the time!

When I got bored with my normal running routine, I took up a Cardio Kickbox class at my gym. After the class I noticed I wasn’t counting down the minutes until my workout was over and was actually having fun!
Also, If I’m really not feeling a run, I’ll just do a power walk instead of forcing myself. Something is better than nothing!

I guess I was kind of in a slump of doing the same thing over and over – usually running around 2-4 miles. Then I set my goal of running a half marathon and did almost every run with people so I wouldn’t have an excuse to stop and not do it. That helped me a lot. I do better when I have other people around me to motivate me.

I’d been eating fairly healthy (slowly switched from college food to diet food to real food over a period of years) for a while when my son was diagnosed with food allergies. When I started really reading ingredient lists and not just scanning fat and fiber and calories stats, I was a bit horrified at how many unnecessary and unpronouncable ingredients are in foods we consider healthy. I guess that was my turning point – I now aim for as simple a list as possible – or no list! I make most of our food from scratch. I think we’re all healthier for it. My son was reading the label on the Envirokids Koala Krispies box and said, “Hey, we could make this at home!” I took the opportunity to dig out the very old Kellogg’s Rice Krispies box and show him that list. Big difference!

When I broke my foot I had a really hard time getting back into running. So I’d mix it up by doing fast sprints one day, a long bike ride the next, a slow jog. Adding variety is the best thing and slowly your pace will come back!

I give myself a few rest days until I’m feeling antsy again. And if that doesn’t work I bring some entertainment to the gym, like download a tv show to my ipod, so I have some distraction.

I have managed to make healthy living a habit, but every once and a while I need some extra help. After reading Michael Pollan’s books, I became vegan. I find that challenging myself to do different things every once and a while really refreshes my resolve to live a healthy lifestyle.

I think that my turning point as when I realized that healthy eating goes beyond calorie counting.

I simply started eating breakfast. I feel so much more satisfied and have more energy to get through my workout afterwork.

Excessive planning helps me get back on track..to the point that I allot myself time on my weekly schedule for a workout. It’s always hard at first, but the routine falls back in when I micromanage it. 🙂

Heythere! SO this, I see is a huge trend on blogs lately; cardio/workout burnout. I actually JUST posted a Vlog on my BLog about this (not to plug it but it’s interesting ;-)) Anyway, the basis is that this is very normal, and you just need to SWITCH. IT. UP. But before that, give your body the rest it needs if desired-decide if it is physical burnout or mental burnout. ANYWAY, a few ways to switch it up-
1. fun fitness classes at a gym IF you can afford 🙂 you can sometimes to a day pass just to see if you like it (or switch it up)
2. THE CENTURY (also described on my blog) it is a neat little (but VERRY DIFFICULT) cross-training workout that is easy to remember, hits all areas of the body, combines cardio and strength training and was taught to me by a friend who trains professional athletes in off-season. Here’s how you do it: Do a mile at 5kpace (or if you’re not a runner, do ten min on elliptical or other INTENSE cardio for ten min) then , do a “century” of a body part- Ex: abs or arms or shoulders) A century is 10 sets of ten reps.
Enjoy! Do remind yourself- this will pass!

I got tired of eating and nothing tasted good. I started dabbling in no meat and focusing on more of a raw eating lifestyle. I think that has helped me understand what my needs really are. I can get my protein in far more better ways than with meat. Raw is a tough lifestyle but I can eat raw as much as possible which, for me, is a good thing. I feel tons better and have more energy which enables me to workout more.

I this past weekend made me realize that I’ve reached a turning point in the way that I eat. I went on a girl’s weekend trip and while there was plenty of opportunities to use the “vacation” eating excuse, I made a lot of healthy choices. I was so proud of myself, and it wasn’t hard for me to do.

I have been eating pretty heathily for the past 6 months, but my big hump was after I returned from a vacation and was loaded up on greasy foods and hadn’t exercised in 2 weeks. I kept eating like that until I went to the doctor-I was overweight after losing the final 20 pounds!

I try to reach out to a friend to work out w/ when I’m in a hump – sometimes other people’s strengths/determination to work out are just what I need to push my fitness forward!

when I’m in a fitness slump I find turning to a friend is the best way to get out – having a workout buddy is motivating and fun!

I think to “get over the hump” you actually just have to keep going. It does get easier. I just tell myself to take it one workout at a time and slowly but surely I find myself getting stronger.

I think I often feel like I’m working to get over a hump when it comes to running — sometimes that means I need to get more strict with myself, and sometimes (like right now) it means taking a break, because I’m on the verge of burning out.

That lunch looks SO good! And did you really run in long sleeves? That would definitely slow me down in the summer heat.

When I’ve encountered a fitness hump, I usually change what I’m doing. Shaking things up and surprising my body usually gets me over it!

speaking from the viewpoint of someone who embodies the phrase “runs like a girl” the concept of being active was really tough for me…until i took fitness classes! i go gaga for zumba

Taking classes helps me get over an exercise hump. Mostly because I’m quite competitive, and seeing that I’m not one of the best in class makes me work harder and go more often so that I can become one of the best. Kind of silly, but it seems to work.

I’m in a hump right now too (Which isn’t great since I have a 10K next weekend, a half marathon in 3 weeks and I start marathon training in a week…) I was sick for a month so it’s hard to come back knowing you used to be in better shape. But, I just keep following my plan and am trying not to get discouraged if I’m running slower/talking walking breaks

When I took the time to think about your question I realized that there was not turning point. I’ve consciously tried to make healthier choices and most of the time they just come naturally. If I am making an unhealthy choice though, I am very aware of it and try to really think about it before I dive in. I’m learning to not beat myself up over a splurge and to not feel guilty about it.

I had a hump just a few weeks ago! I got over it by signing up for a new gym with fun classes super-close to my workplace. I can slip out at lunch time, catch 40 minutes of class, rinse off, and be back at work within an hour!

I make a new plan with new goals or I try something new. But usually switching it up a little or a new goal does the trick!!

I felt that after I had been making healthier choices with my life, it was more natural way for me to live.

My fitness hump disappeared when I found motivation in new friends I made in my yoga class. Having those ladies hold me accountable and looking forward to seeing them has kept me at the gym consistently. We challenge each other and we look for opportunities to try new things together. It’s been great! If not for those ladies I’d probably be in a bigger funk than I am right now since I’ve been out of commission for a month due to a shoulder tear. Having them keep in touch despite not being in class and having them check up on me has been great! I should be back on Monday after 3 miraculous acupuncture treatments (who knew a needle in the ankle could help fix my shoulder!!) have helped me heal to a level where I can introduce activity back into my day!

My turning point came a few months go when I started reading health/fitness blogs. I was obsessed with calories in/calories out and was absolutely frustrated by how it began taking over my life. When I found blogs and watched Food Inc, I realized it’s more about the quality of food I put in my body, not just how many calories. Once I started eating quality, natural food, it’s no going back!

Asked my better half to help me. He’s super-supportive and awesome. We had a long talk about where I was, how I thought I got there, and how we can move on together. It was perfect and more than I could have asked for from him.

I overcame my fitness hump by hiring a personal trainer for a few weeks. Once I started seeing progress, I got my motivation back. She gave me a detailed workout plan and goals for each visit. 🙂

I only used to eat the occasional fast food meal, but I like the fact that nowadays, I don’t even like the taste of most processed foods, and I actually crave healthy stuff 🙂

To get over my hump I just did one of two things. One- take 2 days completely off or 2 ramp up my speedwork.

Plus it might be the heat getting to you.

In my journey to be healthier I noticed it became more natural once I enjoyed cooking with real foods and reading food blogs like yours!!!! I am always so excited to try out the new recipes I see. Meals became so much more enjoyable, I felt better afterwards and I had more energy.

I love cooking and reading food blogs to find new and exciting recipes. I want to start my own food blog too but I am not quite ready to take that plunge! I hope soon though!!!

When I hit my last fitness slump, I started looking at habits in my life related to fitness. Am I getting proper nutrition? Enough sleep? Am I taking time to do breathing exercises and reduce stress? Stress is a biggie. If I’m not taking care of my body, then I definitely can’t push it to new heights.

I hit a turning point when I realized I wasn’t happy with some crappy/junk snack options I had and really, really wanted a piece of fruit. It was weird at the time but not it is totally normal to me!

like many other commenters, when I hit a fitness hump I either change my routine, or I just change my focus a little bit in the same activity so that I don’t get discouraged and stop completely.
On a random side note – I own that exact same Built NY lunch bag. I’ve had it for over 2 years, and I love it! 🙂

My turning point was having a “real” breakfast, usually oatmeal for most of the year. Before I rediscovered oatmeal, I would usually have something light or nothing at all, as I am really not as hungry in the beginning of the day. I think that my real breakfasts have allowed me to really get the most out of my day now!

My turning point was when I came back from my sophomore year of college 15lbs overweight, even though I played a sport! I realized I needed to change my eating habits; I started with smaller portions so I could transition easily and still eat some of my fave foods, then I started eating healthier and healthier!

My healthy eating turning point was no longer craving fast food, and instead, craving the groceries I had bought for myself at home. I had always been a fast food eater, Taco Bell and McDonalds being my faves. And one day last year, I was out and got hungry, ten minutes away from home. I had a choice, make a run to the Mickey D’s or wait. And i waited, and felt so much better about myself. That was the first time that had ever happened, and Im happy to say it wasn’t the last.

My turning point began four years ago. The first swap I made was eating an actual breakfast and giving up coffee. I used to drink coffee for breakfast every morning and I would pour so much sugar into the cup it was really disgusting. I gradually started to introduce more veggies and fruits into my meals. Now it just seems so natural to eat healthier. When I go somewhere and I’m not able to get in my veggies and fruits I want to freak out, but I have to remind myself that I can always get them in later. I also gave up a lot of processed foods. I’ve been eating like this now for about four years and I won’t ever go back to my old ways.

Caitlin, I realize I’m one of the later commenters but I hope you’re still able to see this. When I am in a rut with my runs, paces, etc., I find it best to get a buddy at my pace or a pace close to mine. Running with a buddy is so much easier and can get competitive. I was running with a buddy the other day and we were hitting this pace that seems really hard for me alone but it was SO EASY with my running buddy. Another thing is that running more miles, even just slow, slow miles will make you a better runner. Slow runs increase the number of mitochondria in your cells (energy producers), make your blood vessels branch out for more efficiency, etc. It’s actually recommended for really competitive 5K runners to do 45-70 miles per week. You can run your speedy 5K without that, but I have really thrived on more mileage. So I might recommend finding a running buddy and increasing training volume. Ice baths and rolling on a foam roller might help with quad soreness. Good luck!

Funny you should broach this topic today, as I am currently in a rut. I have a problem where I am consistent with my training for 3-4 weeks and then all of the sudden, I can’t (or won’t) do it anymore. I get to where I can run consistent sub-9 min/mi and then I, as you said, “crash and burn.” My times slow significantly and I no longer feel like working out. I have done marathons and halfs in the past, but I almost always hit those bumps in the road no matter what. I am currently experimenting with incorporating more weightlifting in my routine on days where I’m just not feeling the run. We shall see.

I think everyone encounters fitness peaks and dips–as you said, LIFE happens, you couldn’t have said it better! I definitely feel like I can get in to or out of a routine of healthy eating, working out regularly, doing hot yoga. Then enter a vacation or some reason for me to stop for a while–to slip–and I can feel the “dip”. Don’t worry though, you have it in you, we all know you do, and it will come back!!

Love your blog as well! In order to get through those tough times, I try to find motivation from all sources – new playlists, prevention magazine, new exercises or classes, & even new foods. As a breast cancer survivor (dx at age 29), I try to embrace all the days I have, get outside & enjoy everything God has in store for me 😀

When I hit a fitness hump (the past three weeks I have been off my fitness schedule because of the stomach flu & epstein barr virus has made me sleepy…) I kick my own butt back into shape! Tomorrow my husband is joining me on a lengthy walk/jog to remind my body I feel way better when I exercise reguarly. Monday we will be jumping back on the Couch to 5k program as well 🙂

i definitely reached a turning point where i actually looked forward to eating fruits and veggies instead of processed, packaged foods! i knew i had turned my changes into an actual “lifestyle” when i started craving fresh, natural foods!

I wanted to ask you (I don’t know if you’ll ever see it amongst the sea of other comments but …) Did the navigation feature just take you back the exact way you came? or does it have a way to find the shortest route back? I got lost once with my Garmin but I had already run something like 6 miles and I didn’t want to do 12 so I eventually found my way back, but I was just curious for future reference.

The best way to get over a slump is to change up your routine or try out a new form of exercise. You need to challenge your body but you also need to listen to it, so maybe just slow it down for a bit.

I try not to dwell on the fact that I have a hump to pass. If I keep doing what I know is what is on track, eventually I look back and realize I’m at the point where I was wishing to be!

I found a running plan in a magazine and am sticking to it. I put it somewhere I can see every day, and so far, I’ve kept up with it!

Love the blog Caitlin and your recent posts have been great! I love everything move and design related. To get over a fitness hump I was having (felt like I was running all the time and not improving) I began the couch to 10k plan. Having the program stare me in the face forced me to get out and do it. It was also easy to see how I improved with each week.

Those giveaway items made me drool!

I realize that now if I sit down to a meal without a fruit or veggie I feel incomplete!

I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE your blog!! One could say I think it’s absolutely EPIC!! 🙂 I experienced an total healthy lifestyle makeover about a year ago. I started out by eating tons of salads but always justified to myself that I could keep the processed, heavy, “not so great for you” dressings because I was eating salad. However, over time I started to use less and less dressing and about 6 months in I stopped craving them altogether. It felt like they were drowning out the flavor of the delicious, fresh vegetables. Now, I am a “little drizzle of olive oil” kind of girl. Crazy to think how far I have come!!

I’m working on it. I’m doing Couch to 5k for the umpteenth time and doing my best to not quit when it gets hard. I’m making some serious life changes as I’ve quit my job to go to grad school, I’m seriously working on my marriage, and I don’t just want to be thin. I want to feel good, which I have never really felt. I want to enjoy myself and not restrict myself or beat myself up, but I want to be fit and strong, and not worry if my husband suggests we go for a bike ride that I can’t do it, and he’ll be waiting for me. I guess I’m AT my tipping point right now, and finding your blog has really helped, and I’ve decided to start my own for this new journey.

I know it’s not for everyone, but when I hit a hump I try to find a race to enter. Also, more recently I’ve been focusing on enjoying my runs. I’m coming back from injury so I’m following the Galloway method and I love the walk breaks. I’ll also take breaks to pet cute dogs, smell the papaya flowers, and look at cool bugs.

Heathly eating habits have definitly become a habit as opposed to a concious choice I have to make everyday. In fact, splurging has become much less fun – things are too sugary or heavy and either leave me with a funky aftertaste or just plain sick to my stomach! It’s amazing how the flavors come out of natural foods once you elimate all that processed junk from your syste. My palate thanks me. 🙂

This summer when ice cream is a must, I have started eating frozen banana with chocolate syrup blended in the food processor. It is cold, creamy, but better then the ice cream. I an finding I enjoy the healthy stuff more then the less healthy stuff on a daily basis–save the unhealthy for a special treat!!

In order to fix a slump, I need my motivators, friends who like to workout too makes a difference, can go to the gym, yoga, or play tennis.
Also, now that I’m in my 30s, I’m driven to stay in shape for health, physical, and mental well-being.
If I can’t run, then I do other forms of work outs and that can just include daily chores or walk to the train instead of driving.
P.S. I love FETA! 🙂

I guess you could say I’m at an exercise hump…sort of? I’m super motivated to exercise lately, but my knees have been bothering me, which has been a hindrance. I’m actually kind of in denial about the whole thing because I have NO idea why they’ve been bothering me :/ I’m only 23, so that sort of thing kind of freaks me out. I should probably see a doctor about it, huh?

I was getting burned out running the same route every morning. I am a creature of habit and didn’t know how to break out of my routine. So I asked a friend who is a personal trainer and he introduced me to strength training. Lifting for different muscle groups each day keeps things fresh and exciting!

I’m still hitting hard times in my workouts and don’t really have a great solution.. so I’ll answer the second question!

My turning point in making healthier decisions came when I realized that I didn’t actually like eating things like hamburgers and greasy food. I was only eating it because it was easy and that’s what everyone ate. Once I decided I would eat things that I liked and felt good eating, I started to make better decisions – because I would eat what my body craved and what I enjoyed, like more salads and fruits, and less meat and dairy.

Well, I am still trying to get over the hump. BUT I do plan to get back to the gym on Monday morning first thing. I stay tired and I know working out would help me feel so much better. I’m still recovering from a long illness. BUT it is time to get back to work!

I’m struggling right now with my hump. I’m running at least 30 miles a week but I have let my strength training go by the wayside. Sometimes its hard to fit it all in. Thanks for the post, its a good reminder!

I think the biggest thing that has helped me get over fitness humps – especially with running – is consistency. If I stick with it long enough, eventually my body “gets it” and all of a sudden I see a big improvement. I think once your bod adjusts to the DVD, the running will come back.

When I hit a fitness hump, I remind myself of the people I know who are physically unable to do the things I do–spin, step, and lift weights–due to their physical handicaps. I remind myself that I need to be grateful that I can do these things. It also helps to think “I get to go to the gym!!” Rather than “I have to go to the gym.” Corny, I know, but effective.

I would love a built ny lunch bag for work!

In the past I have had to get over some fitness hump’s from not training in off seasons. I simply stuck to the 10% rule of not doing too much too soon. Each week I only increased my mileage by 10%, but I did add in more strength training to get my core/arms/etc. in top form while building more endurance.

Hitting that Hump is hard. I was just getting faster while training for the Tufts 10K last year and got injured. I couldn’t run for 6 weeks. So when I got back I was frustrated that I had to start at a slower pace and mileage than I was even used to pre-injury.

I got back to it by not beating myself up about what I couldn’t do be thankful for all I could do considering.

After having babies I always did ww to lose the weight. However once i realized it wasn’t how much i was eating but WHAT and I started to read healthy eating blogs I turned a real corner and have never really gone back to the way I used to eat…

When I have encountered a fitness hump, I tell others around me. My family, my husband, my friends will give me the motivation to keep going. They offer to work out with me or they say encouraging things about being healthy.

When I need to get over a fitness hump I try something new and exciting. Like rock climbing or a high ropes course.

fitness hump… take a break! usually i find humps mean i’m burned out and need to alter the routine… even if its hard to not work out.

Whenever I’m in an exercise slump I try out a new exercise, say Zumba, for instance. Sometimes I’m just bored with my ordinary routine, or my body needs a new challenge.

I am training for a half marathon in September, and my goal is to have a faster finishing time than my previous races. In order to do that, I have been making better choices in what I eat (reading blogs like yours has been a great tool). My boyfriend and I have also been talking about trying to have a baby once the race is over, so I know whatever healthy changes I am making now, will help me if/when I am pregnant.

I started running again about a year and a half ago. I have also been trying to eat healthier, more nourishing foods. I slip up every once in a while and I have slumps here and there, but the change I have seen in myself is incredible. My chronic back pain has all but vanished, I have way more energy, I can crawl around on my knees and play with my kids, I have less stress and more confidence. Before, I was big into sweets. When people would say: “This dessert is way too sweet for me,” I could never relate. Now that I am eating more whole foods, I totally get it. Lots of things taste too sweet, too salty, too fatty. Most of the time, I actually crave HEALTHY food. Habit has become lifestyle. I quit drinking coffee and soft drinks. I now drink tea with only half a teaspoon of sugar, whereas before I would drink coffee with two Tablespoons of sugar!! And I don’t miss the things I’ve eliminated. It doesn’t feel like I am denying myself anything.

I have been struggling with Anorexia since I was 12 years old and it wasnt until this past summer when i turned 19 that I finally hit my Healthy Tipping Point. Once I hit that point, for some reason, eating and nutrition became my priority. In the past year, my life has completely turned around. I got my period back, my blood work normalized, and I am living a better life than I could have ever believed. I am so thankful for the second chance at life I got and I will be turning 20 on tuesday!! 😉

The last 10 years that I’ve put on weight (60+ lbs) has been one huge fitness slump. Tomorrow the hubs and I start P90X and Weight Watchers!

My healthy eating habits took a turning point to becoming natural when I started to crave them over my usual non healthy cravings! It was like an epiphany! My fitness rut started to hit when nothing seemed to change, much like what you are going through. So, I sought the help of fellow athletes to see if there workouts worked for me. It was challenging, fun and I got more out of it then I ever anticipated while joining them for their workouts!

When I am in a fitness hump I usually sign up for an exciting race or trying a new type of exercise for awhile which helps me remain enthusiastic about exercise even if I’m not running as fast as I’d like.

to get over my fitness hump, i switched up my routine and started taking new classes at my gym… classes are so motivating to me!

i got sick and that set me back a lot but also made me realize how important it is to take care of my body. i take one day at a time, have become vegetarian, and stick to mtraining plain through accountability and variety! if im not motivated, i give myself the 5 minute rule, just do it for five and go from there 🙂 it usually gets me started!

The best way to get over a hump? Try something new! Better yet, try something new with a workout buddy? Push through it for a week or so and you’ll be back in your old groove in no time 🙂

When I’m in a fitness hump I change up my routine. I find that my unwillingness to exercise is because I am complacent and bored with my routine so I throw in a new routine and it helps!

Definitely hit a turning point — for me, it was when I stopped counting calories and decided to listen to my body. I’m still looking to lose a bit of weight, but abandoning the obsessive, unhealthy calorie counting I was doing has completely freed me, and I am now learning to listen to what my body tells me and to trust it. So amazing!

Fitness Hump: When I changed jobs, my entire schedule changed and I was working 75 hours a week and traveling three weeks of every month. It was crazy. Finally, I decided I was only going to book hotels with good workout areas and for when I couldn’t I amassed a collection of workout dvd on my laptop and set up shop in the hotel room. Having a plan is crucial.

I get over fitness humps by switching things up. I find when I’m excited by a new work-out, I feel way more motivated to do my best!

When I hit a fitness hump, I just try to remember why I am doing the things I am doing and how good I feel once I have accomplished my goal. As I type, I am psyching myself up for a 10 mile marathon training run….!!!

I embrace the hump, but challenge it at the same time. I try different things, and have faith that I will bounce back soon. I’m on the “bounce back” part of a hump right now, actually!

There are so many great comments and suggestions listed here. I thought I might add that since you’re new to your town maybe joining a running group would be helpful in pushing yourself back to where you want to be. I also agree that since you’re now running on terrain different from Florida you are using your muscles differently so cut yourself some slack. Finally, what about throwing in a small run (or sprint) the days you use your video- if you can push it out when you’re fatigued, on the days you’re running on fresh legs you’ll fly!

I get over fitness humps by pep talks to mytself. I imagine myself achieving a goal and it makes me so ambitious that I do it!

I think eating healthier came naturally when I stopped feeling like crap. Then the fast food tasted horrible and I couldn’t stomach them anymore.

I hit my own “healthy tippy point” after a bad relationship. I realized my relationship with food, with the guy at the time and my job were all taking a serious toll on my ability to take care of myself. After removing the negative, I lost 35 lbs! Not only did I lose the weight, I lost the “weight” as well! Now I eat right and have a better relationship with food, my body and my boyfriend!

If you’ve encountered a fitness hump, how did you get over it?

Well, I feel like I am working to get over one right now because my IT band is giving me such trouble while I marathon train. It would be easy to give up, and say I’m just meant to run shorter distances, but I’m working strengthening my IT band using Yoga, Weight Lifting, plus running and cross training and overall it should make my body stronger and hopefully help me finish the 26.2 in October!

Being a little older than you (31), I often see you going through things I went through a few years ago. Comparing my race times to times I had even just a couple of years ago always gets me down. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned to be less Type-A about training, and more holistic in my exercise (which is still every day, but a lot more yoga and cross-training).