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South Beach Diet - Phase 2

Week 2: Get Into Gear and Stay Safe

Admin_Richard's Avatar
To: ALL     Edited: May-16 10:01 AM (1 of 29)
Now’s the time to focus on getting the proper walking gear. It’s extremely important to choose the right sneakers for your workout. For example, if you’re walking, choose walking or cross-training sneakers; if you’re running, purchase running shoes, which will provide the proper support. Synthetic athletic socks are better than cotton because they wick away moisture and keep your feet dry and blister-free.

It’s also important to stay hydrated while you walk, so be sure to drink eight ounces of water before you head out and carry a small water bottle to sip from as needed. You may also want to consider investing in a portable music device to listen to while exercising to make the experience more enjoyable. Maybe a fast-paced song will push you to walk faster, maybe a certain upbeat tune is inspiring and encourages you to walk farther, or perhaps an instrumental melody will help you relax. Whatever the case, just be sure to keep the volume low enough so that you can still hear traffic sounds.

When you’re out walking, you should also keep some additional health and safety tips in mind: For example, it’s best to walk during daylight hours and avoid heavily congested areas. If you walk very early in the morning or in the early evening, be sure to wear light-colored clothing with light reflectors so you can be seen by passing cars. Don’t walk in the middle of the road! And, if you are walking with others, walk no more than two across.

The Fitness Challenge: Tell us about your favorite walking gear or purchase new gear if this is your first time starting a walking routine. Did you choose lightweight walking material? What’s your favorite walking gear? Were you comfortable in your clothes while walking? And what safety tips can you share with the group? If you listen to music while walking, post your workout playlist. Write about your experience wearing more comfortable and appropriate clothing when walking, and post a picture of yourself in your favorite workout gear.

Day 2
Warmup:

  • Start with a five-minute walk at Easy Pace

Interval Walking Challenge:

  • Walk for 15 seconds at Revved Up
  • Walk for 45 seconds at Easy Pace
  • Repeat ten times

Cooldown:

  • End with a two-minute walk at Easy Pace

Day 4
Warmup:

  • Start with a five-minute walk at Easy Pace

Interval Walking Challenge:

  • Walk for 15 seconds at Revved Up
  • Walk for 30 seconds at Easy Pace
  • Repeat 12 times

Cooldown:

  • End with a two-minute walk at Easy Pace

Day 6
Warmup:

  • Start with a five-minute walk at Easy Pace

Interval Walking Challenge:

  • Walk for 15 seconds at Supercharged Pace
  • Walk for 60 seconds at Easy Pace
  • Repeat eight times

Cooldown:

  • End with a two-minute walk at Easy Pace

Kathwomyn's Avatar
From: Kathwomyn
To: ALL     Posted: May-11 01:32 PM (2 of 29)
In reply to this post
Here's my response to the Fitness Challenge question:

I need to get new socks and shoes, but have been putting it off. Sounds like it's time! :-> Depending on the weather, I wear jeans and t-shirts (sometimes a light jacket) or shorts and tank tops. Mostly just cotton or cotton blend clothing. As for safety, I always have a bottle of water, my cell phone, and my walking buddy and we walk in a local park that has good sidewalks and lots of people we see regularly. I can't listen to music and walk at the same time! LOL! I'll have to get a photo...will ask DH to take a pic before the end of the week.
Member_Sunshine1's Avatar
To: Admin_Richard     Posted: May-11 03:56 PM (3 of 29)
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Hi Richard.

My responst to the Fitness Challenge questions is as follows:

I have a brand new pair of walking shoes and socks.  I usually wear cotton coulottes and tank top unless It is cool.  Then I wear more appropriate shirts.

I carry a bottle of water and my cell phone.  I usually walking either in my neighborhood or at home on my treadmill.  I also use Leslie Sansone's walking videos.  I do not like to listen to music when I walk.  I just enjoy the outdoors.  If I walk in my living room on my treadmill I watch tv and that helps the time to go faster.  I'm not sure about the photo as I am not sure if I can transfer it to my preferences from my camera.

I am enjoying the Challenge so far.  I had to really push to get it all it last week as my uncle in KY died and we were gone about 4 days up there, but I made it.

Wendie's Avatar
From: Wendie
To: Admin_Richard     Posted: May-11 06:56 PM (4 of 29)
In reply to this post

I walk 2-4 miles in the mornings in my sock and sneakers, jeans or sweat pants, T-shirt or sweat hoodie depending on the temperature. I listen to music or just listen to the birds and whatever is going on outside. I live in a forresty area and love it. I only wish I had someone to walk with.

Texas_Lady's Avatar
From: Texas_Lady
To: Admin_Richard     Posted: May-11 09:05 PM (5 of 29)
In reply to this post
I started walking a mile a day this year on March 30th, upon my doctor's suggestion because I have high cholesterol and triglycerides.  I gradually increased my walking to 3 miles a day but have had to cut back to 2 miles every other day because of leg pain. 

I walk on my treadmill out on the patio while listening to oldies.  I wear NB walking tennis shoes, shorts and an exercise bra.  However, it has started to get warm in my area so I might have to move my treadmill indoors. 
tinman57's Avatar
From: tinman57
To: ALL     Posted: May-12 12:09 PM (6 of 29)
In reply to this post
I don't have special gear but I really should invest in new shoes and socks.  I'm now inspired to do so.

Music confession:  those earbuds are playing Mamma Mia Workout music (think ABBA but with a running beat).  It's my shameful secret.  As I'm running down the treadmill next to these young kids I am hoping and praying that they can't actually hear me listening to ABBA music.

But it works for me!
privy's Avatar
From: privy
To: Admin_Richard     Posted: May-14 11:20 AM (7 of 29)
In reply to this post
This week's walking challenge has been a lot of fun because I've gotten my friends and family involved too. I'm still pushing myself to do a little more and this afternoon for the supercharged interval I'm going to try jogging.

As for clothing, I LOVE my Nike FitDry black capri workout pants! They are amazingly comfortable and dry so quickly that there is never any moisture from sweat. They also are very flattering- a big bonus! My favorite socks are the socks that are designed for running that are left and right foot specific! I find that they provide extra arch support and are just more comfortable than regular undesignated left foot/right food socks.

Keep up the great work fit and fab!
Miss_Barb's Avatar
From: Miss_Barb
To: Admin_Richard     Posted: May-14 01:52 PM (8 of 29)
In reply to this post
2nd week mini challenge:

My workout essentials:

My sneakers...I wear shape ups 24/7 my feet love love love them.
My Ipod Nano (pink) with the large head set...I have a hard time with something in my ears.
Sunglasses.
And my inhaler (can't leave home without it).

My playlist:
Takin’ care of business – Alabama
Party for two – Shania Twain
Redneck women – Gretchen Wilson
Tonights gonna be a good night – black eyed peas
Love gets me everytime – Shania Twain
Here for the party – Gretchen Wilson
5,6,7,8 (Extended Mix) – Steps
Old time Rock and roll – Bob Segar
C’est la Vie – Bob Segar
I like to move it (club mix) – real 2 real
Better Life – Keith Urban
Way I are – (Keri Hilson & D.O.E) – Timbaland
Kerosene – Miranda Lambert
Get Low – Flo Rida ft. T-Pain
People are crazy – Billy Currington
Good to be me (Kid rock) – Uncle Kracker
Follow Me – Uncle Kracker

Note:  This playlist works well for me to do interval training...only I just go the lengh of the song.  And I always seem to hit a hill when the fast songs come on, but it turns out to be a better workout for me...



And I am doing my 1st 5K tomorrow (Healthy Heart 5K)....I just can't wait.
JZ2011's Avatar
From: JZ2011
To: Admin_Richard     Posted: May-14 06:25 PM (9 of 29)
In reply to this post
I listen to a lot of nature when I walk and had a very interesting nature discovery this week.  On Tuesday we had our first bout of severe weather in the Twin Cities.  The day's weather was hot and humid and just right for mixing up a storm.  And storm it did.  Hail, wind, funnel clouds, and one tornado touchdown many miles west of where I live.  After the storm it was still eerily hot and humid - and I went for my walk.  As I got closer to the lake I heard a very loud humming noise -- and I mean loud -- coming off the lake.  It was so unusual, and actually beautiful.  I think it was tree frogs, and I think they may have been confused by the weather.  They haven't been singing at all since that night.  -Anybody else have an idea of what this might have been? 

I feel really fortunate that I got to experience that moment - thanks to my new walking regimen.  (It's also a great year for tulips and I've been enjoying them a lot on my walks, too.)  Keep on walking and listening!
 
prophetessmomof3's Avatar
To: Admin_Richard     Posted: May-14 08:26 PM (10 of 29)
In reply to this post
May favorite gear are my sneakers. I have a pair of Asics that I love to walk in. They are running shoes, but have the support I need to stabilize my feet and knees. I also love my 3-season jacket. It's a fleece liner that zips in or out, and a breathable, waterproof outer shell that I can wear alone in warm wet weather, or with the liner if it's chilly.

I also like my new ipod nano. It allows me to choose songs, but is small and discreet. I love to walk at any time of day. This morning I took a walk at 6:00 in the morning. The birds kept me company! I did some intervals, but my recovery times were longer since I'm still recuperating.

Deb
Sherri_S.'s Avatar
From: Sherri_S.
To: Miss_Barb     Posted: May-14 10:32 PM (11 of 29)
In reply to this post
Good luck in the 5k!!  Have fun!!

Sherri

ps...I really like your play list, some really good songs!
Sherri_S.'s Avatar
From: Sherri_S.
To: tinman57     Posted: May-14 10:34 PM (12 of 29)
In reply to this post
Those young kids do not know what they are missing!!!  :-)
Sherri_S.'s Avatar
From: Sherri_S.
To: prophetessmomof3     Posted: May-14 10:41 PM (13 of 29)
In reply to this post
Deb,

I am way behind on our usual E & F thread but I was wondering how you are feeling?  Are your ears better??  I pray that they are!

Sherri
Miss_Barb's Avatar
From: Miss_Barb
To: Sherri_S.     Posted: May-15 06:28 AM (14 of 29)
In reply to this post
Thanks Sherri for the luck with my 5K...I am so excited...I am up early ready to go...it isn't raining right now, but it doesn't look promising to hold out, we will see.  If it rains, it will only add to my experience. I will let you know how I did...I just can't wait.
My playlist has country and hip hop I guess you would call it...as I get faster longer, It will be more hip hop I am sure.  I will have to change it up every few weeks.
Enjoy your day, and keep walking.
Barb
prophetessmomof3's Avatar
To: Sherri_S.     Posted: May-15 09:24 AM (15 of 29)
In reply to this post
I'm better! Although it was anemia and dehydration, not ears. I think one of the Rose's was ears. That's tough as well.

I'm glad to be doing some exercise even if it's minimal.

Deb
jula's Avatar
From: jula
To: Admin_Richard     Posted: May-15 10:58 AM (16 of 29)
In reply to this post
A little late but ...... I've been wearing Nike walking shoes which have been feeling a little uncomfortable. I purchased a new pair of ascics, but when I got home they seemed too tight on my feet, so I will be taking them back! Everyone has something different to say about proper shoes. The MOST comfortable walking shoes that I  have ever worn were Nike microbounce. It was like walking on firm yet soft surfaces and my feet nor legs ever hurt no matter the distance. BUT, you can't find them anywhere now. i went to a special sports shoes store and was professionally fitted with walking shoes, paid over $100.00 for them, wore them for about 3 months, and they ended up being the most uncomfortable walking shoes I've ever had.  Does anyone have a favorite? I usually wear exercise capris, a t-shirt, and a hoodie when walking outside. I usually wear the same minus the hoodie when on the treadmill. I love walking outside but since knee surgery have to watch the surfaces that I walk on, so the treadmill is normally where i walk. I haven't completed all of week 2 challenge but walked an hour and 20 min. at the Eastern Market in Detroit on 5/14 and 1 hour at the mall after that. There may have been a few stops here and there but for the most we walked and walked and walked. My feet did hurt since I didn't have my new tennies on ;-(
Dimples033's Avatar
From: Dimples033
To: Admin_Richard     Posted: May-15 12:40 PM (17 of 29)
In reply to this post
Hi Richard

I usually wear some type of capris or shorts when I walk.  I like to listen to music while walking.
If I can't make it outside to walk then I do the Leslie Sansone walking videos.  I'm looking forward to the challenge and hope to become better motivated to walk more regularly.
Miss_Barb's Avatar
From: Miss_Barb
To: Sherri_S.     Posted: May-15 04:22 PM (18 of 29)
In reply to this post
Sherri_S
The 5K was an awesome experience...You are with people who want to run/walk just like myself...I had a great time...I look forward to many more.
I did the walk and my time was 52 mins. (next time I will improve upon that time)
Barb
Sherri_S.'s Avatar
From: Sherri_S.
To: prophetessmomof3     Posted: May-15 07:35 PM (19 of 29)
In reply to this post
Oh my goodness yes, anemia and dehydration is even scarier.  I am glad to know you are feeling better.  Take it slow, one day at a time. 
Sherri_S.'s Avatar
From: Sherri_S.
To: Miss_Barb     Posted: May-15 07:38 PM (20 of 29)
In reply to this post
I believe you will!!  I am glad is was a good experience.  My first 5K will be on July 9th.  Tomorrow I start day 1 week 5 on the Couch to 5K program.  I am hoping I will be able to jog the whole 3.1 miles by then but only time will tell :-)
Admin_Richard's Avatar
To: ALL     Posted: May-16 10:20 AM (21 of 29)
In reply to this post
I'm pleased to announce the winner of week 2 of the Spring Walking Challenge! This week's winner is a member of the Beach Bunnies team... Miss_Barb.

Barbara posted her walking tips and music list throughout the week. She checked in with her teammates many times and posted pictures of her running shoes, which you'll see if you follow the above link. With the level of dedication she has shown during this challenge, we have no doubts that Barbara is well-equipped to make her goals--and then some! For her prize, Barbara will receive a South Beach Diet cookbook of her choice. Congratulations!