Monday, May 3, 2010

Lessons Learned

Runners learn things all the time from training runs and races. Even easy leisurely runs can teach us things. When and how much to drink while we run, what to eat before the run, what clothes work best, the best type of warm-up and how much stretching to do afterwards. The list goes on. Well, I learned 4 important lessons this morning at my second Bikram Yoga class.

1. Waking up only 45 minutes before class is not enough time.
2. I need to drink more water prior to class (hence needing to wake up earlier for a morning class)
3. 100% humidity is not ideal conditions for hot yoga.
4. Don't go into the studio until just before class starts. Why start sweating before the workout begins?

I hate to admit it, but I had to leave class early today. Yesterday was tough, but today was worse, and I'm pretty sure it was because of those four things. The class was full and there were quite a few other students struggling through and some left the class as well. That definitely makes me feel a little better, but I still feel disappointed in myself for not sticking it out. But, I was laying there on my mat and could not catch my breath for the life of me. I felt light headed and my lungs were heavy. So, I knew I had to get out of there. Hopefully my next class, Wednesday morning, will turn out a little better.

Last night I made a delicious salad. I don't know about you, but warm weather always makes me crave fruit and salads. Not such a bad thing. Salads can be super easy to throw together in a pinch and are an easy choice when your short on time or just plain starving!
In the mix: green leaf lettuce, zucchini, chick peas, grape tomatoes, hard cooked egg, chives, cumin seeds, and a little evoo. I also had a small pear on the side. This totally hit the spot.

A quick PSA: May is Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month. Skin cancer is equal opportunity, so everyone is susceptable to getting it, especially those who spend a lot of time outdoors. The key is to wear sunscreen (and enough of it) and to stay in the shade as much as possible when outdoors. Click HERE for more information including tips on staying safe, how to do self-exams, and where you can get free screenings.

What do you do to stay safe in the sun? Do you remember to put sunscreen on even during the winter?
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Workout Stats -
1mi walk (roundtrip to yoga)
75min Bikram Yoga class

8 comments:

J said...

I think the increase in temps has really changed everything because I can't seem to get enough water, especially with working out. great job on the yoga...i dont know if I could do that hot yoga. It would get a little slippery!

Emz said...

that salad looks amazing - I know what I'm having for dinner!

Been wanting to try a Bikram Yoga class!!

AM! said...

Hi there!
cool to find your blog. I def try and make it a point to put on sunblock religiously on both me and my kids. Currently I use Kineyses (sp?) which i love, but I've read about SCAPE (i think that's what it's called) & it's supposed to be awesome for outdoor/fitness.
cheers!

Jameson said...

Saw you won a contest so I figured I'd check out your blog! I'm yet to do Bikram, but I hear it is quite intense.

Beth @ Beth's Journey to Thin said...

You know I just started Bikram myself last Thursday. I've actually gone FIVE times since then! The first time was easier, the second time I almost passed out - - it was rough! I've always gone at night and find it a lot easier to drink water throughout the day than to wake up super early and cram it in - but good for you. I am so not a morning person! :)

Anne said...

Bikram definitely sounds intense and I'm sure you lasted longer than I would have!!

Salad looks tasty :)

Julie said...

appropriately timed post! i had a TERRIBLE run on sunday - went out too late in the day, picked a route that was too tough, didn't bring enough water for the weather, etc. but i learned some lessons and can only hope it won't happen again!

Unknown said...

I've been avoiding Bikram for years b/c I'm afraid of the heat/sweat/passing out thing I've heard about. Now that I see there are tricks to make it more manageable, I'm reconsidering. Also, I too LOVE salads when it's warm out and have learned that the secret for a great tasting salad is to take a cue from the deli guys and mix it all up in a big mixing bowl with tongs (and it's fun to toss it around!). Totally makes the extra step worth it when you can use less dressing/oil.