If you’ve ever wondered *why* I lift weights…
Thu, Feb 5, 2009
Here are a few insights into my motivation.
If youve ever wondered what happens to a guy’s fitness level when he enters into a relationship–please to enjoy Andrew of Go Healthy Go Fit.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQFBcgXP6c4
(And, if you’ve been wondering if Miz is gonna talk about FRIDAY/Go Red for Women, the answer is no. Myriad reasons but mainly it was already discovered so thoroughly here.)
Today’s BlogBirthday treat is from a website I love: Tees For Change.
They are a company who lives their tagline of inspiring you to live life with passion, purpose and positivity (this is their second giveaway at MizFit so I wanna add generosity to that list, too).
Please to comment below to be entered to win *any* tee of your choice from their store.
You may comment on anything.
From why I weight train, to why YOU weight train, to men’s fitness (with extra good random number generator karma for those who click, surf, & mention which tee they would choose.).
Tags: empowering strength, fitness, men, teesforchange, Weight training
I loove to weight train because there are so many different ways to feel the burn. I love the way it makes me feel empowered. Once I reach my target weights (lets say bicep curling 15 lbs) I’m stoked for at least a week afterwards. I love that it can be used to test my endurance, strength and cardiovascular fitness in circuit training. what can i say, I just LOVE it!
When hubby and I got married, I kind of –dragged– him out of the sedentary closet and got him moving!! Us living together finally sparked him feeling guilty if I was going to the gym without him!
Btw– love the video Andrew–especially that you’re wearing a black tank in your kitchen! Fantastic!
tee so cute *laugh often* my fav!
Happy Thursday Miz!
~rupal
Hi Miz and Andrew!
I “did” let myself go after I was married, and a downward spiral began – leading to my own decreased health and fitness levels. I eventually reached the point where I just didn’t feel all that great, and was just generally lethargic. The last several years, I’ve turned everything around – and I’ve been in the best shape I’ve ever been in. And it feels great to be healthy (and looks a lot better too – this is still there…). I’m now all for lifting weights – especially hitting the big muscle groups (squats, deadlifts, pull ups, bench press, etc). The best thing of this all – I fee great – which I see as a pretty good indication of my overall health!
My shirt of choice – I’m copying Rupal (it really is where I’m at right now) — “Laugh Often”
“Choose happiness”! love it! That would be my tee if I win….
“Today Matters”! or “Live Mindfully” Hard to choose between the two. I love weight training. I love that it makes me feel strong and energetic!
I love how you said this:
How, as a result of my iron hoisting, I now take up MORE space in the world. How I’m far less likely to be ignored or overlooked.
I’m stealing that for myself.
Sweet! Cute guy to swoon over at MizFit…zOMG! Did I say that out loud. Am too focused on the aesthetics my bad
Back to the relationship thing, I think both men & women can also get into the overeating thing to stuff the feelings they are not dealing with when the relationships is going bad or growing apart. That’s one reason I gained 25lbs in my last relationship, and dropped it & kept it off because I wasn’t eating my feelings any more. And the fitness thing should be about health above everything.
I would get the “Chase Dreams” shirt because that is so where I am at now
Thanks ANDREW for representing for the men up in herrre.
(did I use that right?
)
I had trouble getting in here this morning Miz.
The same way when you had hosting troubles before.
anyway.
I want to WANT to lift to be big and noticed but Im not there yet.
Andrew is HILARIOUS.
OOOH and (SAYITTOGETHERNOW) we all know that GOALS are DREAMS with TIMELINES!
I’ve been down that road of letting myself go when I got in a relationship. He just wasn’t into walking or taking care of himself. But as soon as he discovered he had high blood pressure and sleep apnea, he became a fitness expert and pretty much left me behind. I wonder why he didn’t think of inviting me to get healthy with him…
Oh well. NEVER AGAIN! If there is a “Mr. Right” out there, he’d better own a pair of walking shoes and/or a bike.
I’d wear an “embrace change” t-shirt. Too many folks in ruts around me.
Make it a great day.
Good morning Miz! Great video Andrew
I love the t-shirt that says “Practice Kindness”……..those tees rock!
I weight train to strengthen my core and make every day chores………like lifting my 2 yr old twins…….26 lbs each…in the middle of a tantrum to tote them to timeout
I do weights because I read on someone’s blog that it counted as cardio if you do it right because your heart pumps. I loathe cardio — my mind wanders and I start writing mental citations for VPL to people in the gym.
I lift weights for several reasons…
Fitness and to build muscle (the obvious reasons),
To relieve stress
To think (some of my best ideas come between sets)
To focus on me (I spend the rest of the day focusing on son, wife, and work).
My shirt choice? Orange unisex “Today Matters” because it does!
Just in case any of you don’t read The Great Fitness Experiment, Charlotte did a poll on this very subject not too long ago:
http://thegreatfitnessexperiment.blogspot.com/2009/01/women-exercise-to-get-male-attention.html
As for the shirt: I don’t suppose they carry “All I Need Are Minions” in women’s sizes?
I don’t lift, I just have the baby hand weights (which I don’t use nearly often enough, even so). I’m hoping when the new gym opens at work this spring, I’ll be able to start, so my arms can look more like Miz’s and less like grandma arms. (no offense to the fit grandmas out there, I hope)
As for the tee, there are so many great ones to choose from, but what jumps out at me is “Seek Balance.”
When we moved to AZ, I stopped lifting. I have got to get back into it. It made such a huge difference in my body!
But I say I’m doing country weight-lifting now. Swinging a pick-axe works many muscle groups, including the core!
Hauling rocks is another natural weight activity, and I have plenty of rocks to haul!
Gee, I sound like I’m working in a prison program, don’t I?
now I’m singing Back On the Chain Gaaaang, Nita.
Who sang that?
Was it Eurhythmics (sp)?
The reason that I push myself is a similar story to the one from Lance. The couch was way too easy a place to plop than a gym and I grew into the shape of one. I convinced myself that I didn’t have enough time in my “busy” schedule to do anything about it, but somehow I could recite phrases from the evening’s sitcom with little problem. Clothing became tighter, so I just bought a larger size. High blood pressure, angina, and finally type 2 diabetes made me think that the time left in this world was getting much closer then it needed to be. I guess jackass was a term that I could use for myself.
Since that awaking, I’ve dropped 60 pounds of foolishness and hit the aerobic/weight/isometric routine at least 5 times a week. The feeling I have now that there is less of me is clearly much better than the lump I became. My quest for wellness continues. And it’s the community of individuals made up of those that lurk and also comment on a site like MizFit that keeps the future moving in the direction it should. Today’s post is just another example of how this wonderful, powerful person we refer to as Miz gets it.
Thank-you Miz and all the rest of you that take part in this life change festival.
I really like Choose Happiness, but they don’t seem to have that in the tank top, which is mostly what I wear these days, so I think I’d go with Chase Dreams
I have only recently started strength training, but I must say, I really like doing it. The push up challenge has started building some serious biceps and I feel good about myself in a way that has nothing to do with what I weigh or what I look like.
There’s something very Hard Core about weight training that surpasses how I feel about cardio… I feel better after I’ve done it, I feel strong. It’s pretty cool… also, I can see a noticeable improvement, which helps a lot when the scale is being stubborn.
I didn’t coin it but want to add to Tom’s comment that you are truly my Fitness Guidence Counselor.
Leslie
I have to force myself to weight train. I do it at home with DVDs. I don’t enjoy it as much as running, but I know it is essential for woman, esp. as they age. I like doing BodyPump classes in the gym because the music is motivating and I tend to push myself a bit more there. At home, I sometimes cheat and don’t do some reps. IU also like how weight-training shrinks me and makes me compact
I love all the tees. I don’t know how I landed on this site before, but I was recently looking at it (some other giveaway perhaps). Today, I choose the Women cap-sleeve blue(love that blue) which says, “Choose Happiness”.
I love strength training because it makes me feel powerful and independent. And a shorty can really use all the help in that area LOL!
I know that if there was some sort of life threatening situation, I am strong enough to take care of myself, and probably others.
I would like the Stay Strong shirt, and am looking hard at the empowerment necklace for myself as well
I like choose happiness and laugh often. I think both those things will give me a good life not to mention strength training.
I really do enjoy reading what you have to say, I’m glad your here in blog world with me *smile*.
Thanks to Andrew today too.
I love weight training! It’s such a great stress reliever and self esteem builder.
I so wish I could get into cardio but I must have a touch of ADD because every time I get on a treadmill or elliptical I can’t help but feel like a hamster on a wheel. I long to have arms like the Miz.
Those T’s are great. I like the Embrace Change and Laugh Often. They both sum me up pretty accurately right now.
Wow, those tees look fantastic! I think I’d go for the “today matters” or “chase dreams” or “live simply” (that would be a good reminder to me!) long sleeved shirt.
I love strength training because it makes me feel so strong, and like I can do anything!
Chain Gang = The Pretenders
I would choose the Laugh Often teeshirt because I think that it’s soooo important to be able to laugh – to be in a frame of mind where laughter comes easily. I love that laughter is infectious – haven’t you ever laughed just because someone else was laughing??? I love that!!!
Love those tees so much. They’re gorgeous- I really like the long sleeved ones, particularly “chase dreams” and “choose happiness”. There’s something about having a phrase like that to wear that inspires you to follow that philosophy!
I like to weight train for lots of reasons similar to yours. Especially the feeling empowered, capable, and less insecure. I want to know that I can take care of myself and others if needs be. I’ve grown to like strength training so much!
Hey, I just dropped in to read why you lift weights. I didn’t know there was a contest going on! Those tees are wonderful, though, so I’ll leave a comment.
I started working out again, after too many years to mention, because I was having some health problems and I didn’t like the way I looked or felt. Part of it was having been in a relationship for so long, and getting lazy. Part of it was having six babies.
I started out just wanting to lose some weight, but I knew the best way to do that was to include weight training. I’d done this before.
Now I continue to work out whenever I have a chance because I like the way it makes me feel (after I get over the soreness!) and I like the way it makes me look. Also, I don’t feel all decrepit anymore! I was beginning to have a lot of back pain and other problems before, and I don’t have that any more. I never want to go back to that!
I would choose the shirt that says “Today Matters,” because today is really all we have to work with. So many people waste today, thinking they have unlimited tomorrows. I always have to remind myself to do what must be done today, whenever possible. If it’s not possible, then at least do *something* today. Something that will make tomorrow better!
I agree – when I lift weight I don’t think about how the appearance of my arms improves. I concentrate on my form and how powerful I feel.
Cute tees
smacksselfonhead THE PRETENDERS.
I knew that…at one point anyway.
Love all your comments.
and Anne I was so like you. Started lifting to lose weight (as I rambled about yesterday @ escape from obesity) and just became HOOKED.
oh and I love the TODAY MATTERS too.
the ole ‘life is a gift that’s why it’s called the present’ notion…
I lift weights to feel strong – now I know that sounds obvious but it makes me feel strong mentally as well as physically. I can DO things – carry groceries, help friends move, breathe deeply. The last one is more mental. It’s taking up space.
I too started as way of losing weight and changing my body but now I is ADDICTED. I bitch and moan when I struggle but I feel stronger for it.
As for t-shirts, I was eligible (I’m in Canada so probably not), I’d choose “laugh often” or “live passionately” – both are mantras I try to follow and both make me happy.
Great message, Andrew!!
For a second there, I was afraid that Miz had gone EMO on us
LUV that he dressed the part!
When I weight train, I feel better. I feel strong and confident. Nothing like stepping away from a good weight session…not even a cardio session. Love that it is so easy for anyone of any age to jump into, be it at home or in the gym. I also love to use different types of resistance to mix it up and keep it interesting.
LOVE the laugh often tank!
Great guest post! Love the videos.
I love weight training. I use to be very fearful that I’d get bulky but no longer!
(I’m so not going to ask today but will later: why can’t we bulk? I always feel as though I am geting bulky!)
Hey Miz. Sorry about yesterday’s funk post. I’m doing better now and I’m not wavering from the journey, I swear.
I don’t want to be entered into this contest (they don’t seem to have many shirts for dudes), but I thought I’d mention you tyopped your link to tippytoe, so ‘please to fix’ as you would say.
Aside from that, I just wanted to say thanks for reaching out to me yesterday. It always means a lot. THANKS FOR THE TYPO HEADS UP! and feel the funk. always. when we work to AVOID the feeling **thats** when, IMO, things spiral!
————
anyone else still mullingwondering about this?
chime in.
more when I’m not on the thumbs typing away.
yeah i think that happens for women, too… or it can.
i like lifting for the results, i can see the definition, and i love it
those tees are neat, chase dreams and laugh often are prob my fav!
I weight train because, although it does positive things for my body, the things it does for my head are a thousand times greater.
And I would pick, “Today matters”, because I often feel like I’m living my life for some imaginary tomorrow when everything will be fixed, and forgetting that what life really is about is now.
(the Nylons sang it too….)
Laugh Often would by my tee of choice….
Mostly because they don’t have one that says “I heart my Calves” (and I’ll bet only some of you know the Bag Lady means baby cows, as opposed to her pins…)
Hello, MizFit readers! For a story idea, I’m looking for dieters who are using new technology (iPhone, etc), the web (spark, etc), and/or SM (twitter, FB, etc) to stick to plan. Please contact me if you’re willing to be interviewed. Thanks!
I have not been lifting for real, but I have been cross training to some dvds (30 day shred and Jackie’s one on one), which have strength portions. My arms are getting stronger! I love it. I know it is helping.
I am totally going red tomorrow.
To be honest, I was scared to start lifting weights at first because I knew I was weak. But eventually it sunk into my head that the only way to get strong was to weight train. So that’s why I started weight training. To give me physical strength.
But like yourself (MizFit), what came along with that physical strength was a personal strength. So now when I lift weights, I feel like… like I can do more things now. Like I don’t have to be afraid to do what I want to do.
As things progressed, I started to learn about the other physical advantages of weight training (e.g. increased calorie burning hours after stopping) and then that became another reason. And then I learned about how weight training works, and experimenting with my body became another reason.
So I lift weights for many reasons now
When I actually pull it together to go to the gym or decide to lift heavy things at home, I love the way I feel afterward. I feel strong and like i can do anything!
I looked at the site for t-shirts, and I would most definitely choose the bright red long-sleeve shirt that says “Live Passionately”. I may not be perfect, or in the best shape, or have the best habits…but damn it i LOVE what I do
Oh, and about why women can’t bulk. From my understanding it has to do with lower (lack of?) testosterone levels, and oestrogen. I’m sure it’s much more involved than that, but that’s all I can remember.
I love lifting weights because I swear it leans me down. Not bulks me up. Although, my quads are already bulky. Recently, I started adding the stability ball for the back of my legs. Felt like they were getting neglected. I love the ball too cause it CAN be really hard to do.
Those tees are awesome. I want the toddler tee that says “grow strong”!
Okay, I have a bunch of thoughts:
During the biceps video, it was somewhat hypnotic watching your biceps contract and relax.
Based on the Facetime videos, your house is awesome.
I love the “today matters tee”.
Am currently lifting so that I can look awesome in my wedding dress, even if the wedding is 18 months away (yay being sensible and not waiting till 18 days away to kill myself in the gym).
Also, I hear the Rocky song in my head, as there’s a bit of a bridezilla situation (not with me though), and strength training makes me feel like Clubber Lang (or Rocky in I, II or IV).
Everybody seems to love the whole Go Red thing. Even Macy’s is offering 20% off in their stores on Friday if you wear red! Crazy.
Hey, Miz. Okay. I’ve been meaning to ask you something for a while, like ever since I “met” you. And when you said “comment on anything,” you opened the floodgates, so I’m just going to ask this completely random, yet altogether incredibly important, question.
What shampoo/conditioner/treatment do you use on your hair? It’s lovely. Instead of being jealous, I’m going to try and solicit tips, so I, too, can have lovely hair. xoxo-Lori
I chose “staying positive” – it is really tuff for me put in the end I will see the results I want. Great video.
Mara
http://24stepstogo.blogspot.com/
Great guest post!
I know I got into a fitness rut when I got married, but the hubby didn’t so much. I think being in the military had something to do with that……
I’ve always enjoyed weight lifting because it’s challenging and because there are so many ways to mix it up. Stuck in a rut? Try a new routine! It’s fun, diverse, and if you do it right, you can really feel your muscles working.
fast check in as I’m heading *somewhere* to simultaneously stimulate the Tornado’s mind and tire her a** OUT.
Supernoots? Oh Lori?
The hair? I LOVE my Flip.
In person (workout mommy? Steph from BISJ? Cammy? Ya’ll can attest to this since we’ve met in person) a mass of stringy split end’y badcher notgoodcrystalgayle mess.
For some reason the Flip does me right.
The shampoo? Honestly? Sometimes bar’d soap in the shower (I tend to run out) *always* cheap generic.
And the conditioner.
And I’m an avowed Super Cuts woman.
The only thing I do right is I don’t own a hairdryer (which is why I’m frankly befuddled by the split end’age).
My plan is to let it growgrow until Oprah calls ME and wants me for her show…the STUCK IN A TIMEWARP makeover show.
There’s a reason you never get a shot of the *back*
Love,
Miz.
I love weight training for the simple reason that I feel empowered by knowing I’m strong!!!
I weight train at home because I’m too embarrassed to go to the gym. I like to ‘hide’ when I lift my measly 3 lb weights.
I used to dread strength training days. I was all about cardio, cardio, and more cardio, but now I love hitting the weights for several reasons:
1. I’m vain and really like the definition in my arms.
2. I know it’s good for strengthening my bones. Never too early to worry about that one.
3. I finally figured out many of those scary weight machines at the gym, and they don’t intimidate me much anymore.
4. I’m so much better at push-ups, and I can almost do that chin-up.
5. I’m a girl, and I know that muscle burns more calories than fat – not my main reason for lifting, but I won’t lie…it’s definitely a motivator!
I strength train because my muscles give me confidence about my body, something my fat never does.
What great messages- and excellent tee’s.
I want one, I want one!
I weight train because I love the way it makes me feel, and the way it makes my muscles pop. Nothings better than trying to get outta the subway after a brutal leg workout. Makes a 26 year-old feel 80, and I love that.
I started weight training because I knew that it was a component that I was missing. I keep it up because I see how much it has transformed my body for the better. I am so much stronger and feel so much better about myself and how I look,
I love weight training because it’s something I’m good at. lol. I only like doing things I’m awesome at! Ok, well I also love feeling strong. When my body is strong it gets in my head and I become a stronger person. I can do anything, after the muscle fatigue wears off!
My shirt would say “have faith” cause that’s what I have right now. Faith that I can meet my goal. Faith that I am going to change my life and become a healthier, happier woman.
whoa, that’s deep. Love Andrew, what a cutie!
I strength train because I like the focus on gaining rather than losing.
I don’t weight train as much as I should, but I don’t like being weak, and I’m hoping my arm will stop waving past the time that I have
Firm it up, baby!
Oh, and there’s the whole strong bones and extra support for my body!
I am going to have to order me ALMOST ALL their tank tops. (except the yoga one. I do tai chi). So if’n I won the give away, I’d request the SEEK BALANCE. Or the CHASE DREAMS.
Nope, definitely the LAUGH OFTEN.
I started exercising to lose 40# and discovered that strength training makes me happy, helps me deal with stress, and makes me younger – I look and feel 20 years younger than I am. So for me, weight training is the fountain of youth.
Who could ask for more?
I love those Ts!
I weight train because, frankly, I like the way it makes me feel. Strong and fit.
I’m so not going to ask today but will later: why can’t we bulk? I always feel as though I am geting bulky!
————
anyone else still mullingwondering about this?
chime in.
more when I’m not on the thumbs typing away.
*********
What do you mean by bulky? Do you mean muscle definition, or getting too large?
If you maintain your weight, there’s no way you can get too large. Muscles aren’t going to grow out of thin air. I think, though, that lots of people use weight lifting as an excuse to gain several pounds.
If you mean muscle definition; well, yeah, heavy lifting will definitely give you more. If you want to have the scrawny, non-muscular Gwyneth Paltrow look, then you have to go for the light-weight, millions of reps type of routine.
Personally, I like to LOOK like I can kick somebody’s ass.
I lift weights so I can see the change that I want to be in the world.
Also, like to compare my arms with Chris’s.
Also like to say, “Hey, Look at my guns.”
Also like to be able to lift my ass out of the chair.
Also like to feel motivated and stronger inside my body and muscles help me feel and stay that way.
Thanks for Andrew’s post. I don’t need a tee though.
so many thoughts but I’ve got on the BabyMama bandanna.
And yes.
I’m with you dragonmamma on that last sentence.
Bulking thoughts to come…
Wow, this post really rang true for me today. I really liked what you said, Andrew, about emphasizing the physical aspects of working out and weight training, rather than the aesthetics. My fiance’ and I actually just had a very heated discussion about this very topic last night. (While he gets the long term benefits, he is far more focused on the aesthetics)
I find myself getting frustrated when people assume that someone like myself doesn’t weight train or work out because I’m not stick thin and I don’t have Madonna biceps. I do it to feel good, yes. But even more than that, I do it so that I’ll be able to run around with my kids and climb mountains and trees and ride bikes with them. So I can be around to see them graduate and get married. (and also because I’d rather spend my retirement money on vacations instead of medical bills)
For me, when I focus on the aesthetics, I just end up disappointed that I’m not a super model. If I focus on the long term stuff, I find that I’m far more motivated to keep on lifting, eating well and working out.
But maybe that’s just me?
Choose? Only one? I want all the tees! All!
I started weight training because the gym was right next door to work, and the weights were there, and I got interested, and my job involves lifting dogs, and I liked it. I thought about menopause and bone density and congratulated myself on liking it. I miss having equipment.
Mary Anne in Kentucky
Dang, I love me a tee…may have to get one even if I don’t get a freebe.
I’m embracing the weight training as much as possible for the next 6 weeks. Wish me luck!
those tshirts are awesome! i love their “you buy a tee, we plant a tree” promise.
i think my favorites are the live mindfully and today matters shirts, but really they are all fantastic. i am bookmarking for future use
i weight train so that i can be a faster, stronger runner.
I am still on dial up and can’t watch the video but that is supposed to change tomorrow as the men are going to come and hook me up, I HOPE! I know I’ve been missing so much on you site.
So, that said, I can’t comment on what I haven’t been able to watch. But please sign me up for the give away anyway.
)
i love strength training days, although, to be honest, all i’m doing at this point is Level 1 of the Jillian Michael’s 30 Day Shred. I love how strong it makes me feel..yes, even when i’m begging her to stop stop stop.
my tshirt of choice..Today Matters. For a gal whose purpose is muddy right now, that one would be a great reminder to see in the mirror.
xo
I love a good tee. Especially a motivational one. Mine would be Embrace Change. I fear change so much I think one of my dogs has picked up on it.
I’ve never seen this company before so thanks for the info. Great gift idea too.
I love weight training. Cardio helps me lose, sure, but weight training helps me lose AND makes me feel so strong and coordinated, and it reshapes the body so quickly. I went down two dress sizes without losing any weight to speak of when I started weight training…it’s amazing.
I’ve got my red all picked out for tomorrow.
I love the concept of Tees for Change. And their shirts, for that matter. Exceptionally cool.
“Laugh often” is my choice for a mantra!
I love lifting weights! It makes me feel strong and powerful. I spent a lot of years feeling helpless and very vulnerable. Getting stronger physically has helped me to be stronger mentally and emotionally.
Plus, I can lift my kids without throwing my back out, lol!
I love the Tees…but I would want an adult version of the toddler “Play Often”
Why can’t I get a kite on an adult T?!?!?
Oh, weight training. I have a love-hate relationship with it. I love cardio, specifically running on the treadmill, with an episode of Lost playing on my iPod. It’s the only time I watch TV: on the treadmill. And when I’m done, my mind has had a break and my body has been purged of all its nasty stress hormones. It’s the best of both worlds.
And weight training? CUTS INTO MY TV TIME, DAMMIT. (LOL) But I know I feel better when I do it. And I really, really like being able to kick some ass in Tae Kwon Do, sparring with the boys. (Man, you should see ther faces when I land a kick or a punch that has power behind it!) And I like not having to worry about whether or not my knee or back will dislocate (I like that a LOT, since I have a history of injuries).
And on a more superficial note . . . I kind of want to look like Jessica Biel.
OH! I almost forgot! I like the “Embrace Change” tee. Because I Hate and Fear change, and I’m trying to learn to love it. Or at least deal with it constructively, LOL.
check out comment 41/click on her link if this sounds up yer alley:
oh and seabreeze? I predict thou shalt become addicted to the iron.
totally.
I’m the opposite of Heather McD; LOVE the weights but hate the cardio. Actually, if I happen to be doing an activity that results in a cardio workout, I’m thrilled, but I hate the treadmill. I’m doing better with it these days, but I still hate it.
I love the “Choose Happiness” tee. Happens to be something I believe in, a lot.
GREAT video!
Hey all,
Thank you so so much for all the great comments! I’m glad you enjoyed the topic of conversation. Thank you Miz for letting me ramble a la kitchen and black tank, I figured since it was going to be a guest post, I wanted it to be as smooth a transition as possible for everyone!! Hahaha
I hope I don’t miss anyone here.
@ Evan: Representing un in hur? (I’m not sure, but I catch the drift)
@ Tom: Congrats on that huge weight loss! I myself once went through a very big weight loss, so I know how hard it can be.
@ Dr. J: We’re keeping it real for ya
@ Gena: Trying something new is a huge part of weight lifting that people need to embrace, I agree!
@ Becky: It’s not just you. I think about that stuff all the time. I want to be able to enjoy every stage of my life, never have to burden the one’s I love and just be able to live life. That’s a big motivator for me too!
Thank you all so much for the love!
All the Best,
Andrew R
Go Healthy Go Fit
So true. I’ve (almost) stopped caring about the aesthetic reasons for working out. Almost purely for the good feelings now.
I started using the weight machines to build up strength. I enjoy accomplishing goals and continuing to challenge myself. I also like the time taking care of myself and focusing on me.
I like the *today matters* tee as I tend to go through life going from one kid activity to the next without thinking about *my day, my choices*.
I like Andrew’s post…my husband talks about his weight gain when I was pregnant…providing support to me. The long term focus for weight training is important.
Cool website.
I like the “Choose Happiness” Tee.
I used to work out for other people (mostly ex-husband) but now I work out for ME!!!
I like either the Choose Happiness or Laugh Often. Actually, love ALL of them!
AH! MizFit and BISJ all at once! It’s a blog-gasm – 2 of my faves in one place. I totally agree with what you wrote over at BISJ. I notice such a difference in the ‘space’ I take up since I got serious about fitness.
To that end, I also decided it was time to actually mention I work out instead of showing everyone what I ate for dinner for once.
What do I do when I’m NOT strenth-training? DANCE!
I love weight training more than any cardio because I feel so powerful and in control during and also after. The “high” I get from weights is so much better than cardio!
I like the chase dreams and live passionately tees – both are things I try so hard to do.
I love to look toned and feel strong. That is why I love to lift!
I love the raspberry bamboo raglan tee that says “laugh often”.
The arm workout is very timely for me! I was just dreaming last night about having really buff arms in a cool running singlet in my half marathon in May! If I am going to go the distance, I wanna at least have GREAT arms in my finish line photo!
(Because other than than potentially buff arms, I will probably not look so fresh and ‘strong’)
I also think my ‘buff arms’ will look great in the bright red ‘Chase Dreams’ tank top on my training runs….
Andrew is TOO FUNNY.
I’d love to do more weight training but I am afraid of the fact I do bulk up and look big not buff.
I’d appreciate a post on women and bulking and why it we can’t because I feel like I do!!
Interesting: Dustin (the fiance!) stopped working out when we met, and I started about 8 months later. He’s my motivator, despite the fact that he thinks I’m perfect.
Also, if I won the tee, I’d probably get the “today matters,” one, because really, that’s what I need to learn the most.
Did you really just do that?! My jaw dropped when I watched the video on tricep exercises and you put your feet on the table and did the dip… holy crap!
I can’t even imagine doing that right now.. but I think I could handle it with my feet on the floor
one moment….
OK! I just tried it on a chair in the office (no one around today!).. and that’s do-able..and empowering…*note to self*
and I love the ‘embrace change’ and ‘live passionately’ tees.. yummy colors too!
I lift weights because nothing puts me in a better mood than feeling strong. I’m not talking about feeling like the Hulk, but feeling like all of my muscles are fit, and ready to do any activity I throw at them. I LOVE that feeling!
As far as tee’s go — I love the “practice kindness” one! It’s a great reminder for everyday life.
I’m new to your blog and am loving it! I love weight training because I know it’s changing my body and my mindset. I feel stronger physically, and it makes me more confident. Plus, I love feeling sore the next day because that tells me I worked hard!
I love all of the tees, but my favorite is Laugh Often.
My story is a much, much like Tom Rooney’s with regard to fitness in general. I started strength training to gain some upper-body bone density; this was at home, and I think I didn’t like it at first because I would do this at night, when I was running on fumes from the rest of the day. (Not to mention getting used to 50,000 other health changes at once….) Once I noticed that I felt stronger, I started liking it a bit more….then I started taking the BodyPump class at the gym; I love that I all I have to think about is keeping good form and playing along, rather than counting reps and thinking about what I had to do next and had I done everything on my routine? (Oh, and there are barbells. Do they feel so bada$$ or what?
) Downside on BodyPump is that I’m still getting a sense for the proper weights, because I was seriously sore for days after last week’s class. (This week’s went much better.)
Re: t-shirts, I’m with SlackerMama; I wish they had some grown-up size t-shirts with the toddler designs. But in the grown-up sizes, I’m all about “laugh often.”
P.S. to SeaBreeze: Best of luck in embracing diversity in your fitness routine!
I find myself thinking this often:
and this:
I’d like lifting if I could do it outside. I don’t like to be inside working out. Good thing I live where I do.
I would pick “Today Matters”. Because it encompasses everything.
Thank ye for the nod, but more importantly, thank for recognizing the GoRed for Women event.
Now, as for my mizfit hair testimonial: it is indeed lovely. I might be a tad biased, since my hair is also straight and almost the same color. Not as shiny as yours, though.
cammy. I love you but…youre kind.
I shall merely say thank you and credit the FLAX and CHIA I consume by the vatfull.
oh, and I think Im in for Blogher.
I am gonna bite the bullet and make hotel reserv. today.
I hope.
my bank account isnt as excited about it as am I.
My favorites are the “choose happiness” and “today matters” tees — both are things I need to be reminded of!!
Well, put Andrew! I figured out earlier this year that being healthy had to become about something more than appearance. So, I worked to switch my perspective and motivation. From the beginning, I had told myself it was about health more than losing weight, so it wasn’t too hard. Switching to an emphasis on quality of life gives my efforts much deeper meaning and something I can stick to.
I always laugh often [even when I'm sad], I worked hard to be balanced and learn to live passionately. I work to live mindfully and cherish every moment. We only get one pass at this life thing.
Being more educated about heart symptoms especially for women is something. I had some wicked heart palpitations a few months back. Luckily, it was only from a change to my workouts and hormones and it went away on its own. My grandmother had congestive heart failure and the other passed from a stroke, so I should be mindful. I’m glad I’m taking such good care of myself these days. I hope it means a great quality of life as I wrinkle more.
Tees for Change is so cool. I like the “Choose Happiness” tee. And all of them.
I also appreciated Andrew’s guest post. I recognize that for my husband, working out less after we met was a result of being happy and comfortable (and so darned cozy) and I liked that. But we also owe it to each other to try to be as healthy and active (and AROUND) as long as possible, and I think that’s a good way to frame it.
I initially fell in love with strength training because it was an aspect of fitness that I could handle. I felt much better about going through a set of exercises with light dumbbells that I did attempting to go for a run and lasting 1 minute. It was the ability to *complete* something that did it for me.
Of course, the physical benefits were great too!
I like the “Today Matters” T-Shirt. Sorta llike Rent – “No Day But Today” and all of that.
I completely agree that fitness should be about health and not so much about looks.
I’ve always loved your “Take up more space in the world” mantra. Just last night, I was telling this guy I’ve been seeing how I used to have skinny chicken-arms and now I am much more rad.
i love reading all of the comments here!
I like your quote “goals are dreams with timelines” almost as much as mine “the only difference btw a wish and a goal is a plan!”. Love it…I might have to quote you! my favorite tee is the “today matters” one.
i weight train so that my metabolism will increase as my weight decreases! i also hope to fill up my skin with muscles where most of the fat used to be (at least on my arms and legs cause i’m afraid the skin on my stomach will require a doctor!)
Darn, I can’t open the tee site from here. I’ll look later.
I want to weight train, but I’m resuming it at a very low level. Last time I really had a good thing going was about 9 years ago–I actually had a little definition in my arms then. I would sure like that back.
And also the thing about muscle burning more calories than fat…Seems like a good idea to me!
I work out because my father died of a heart attack, and my mother had a heart attack. Plain and simple, I guess…
I like what Andrew had to say. Will be replaying later, when my occasional couch potato is around. Also, so nice of him to wear the MizFit uniform.
I’m with a lot of the comments on the Laugh Often shirt. I’m torn between that and Breathe Deeply.
and I so was HAPPY to just do the giveaway but now? I think I may need a few additions to my Be Present tanktop.
tfh? you know it’s all about this around here, too:
so true…
How cool! Some days I get so frustrated at work. I could really use a reminder to breathe deeply.
I weight train because, as a runner, I’m concerned about preventing injury. I don’t lift heavy, but I know it’s important to strengthen those connective tissues.
Plus it helps me de-stress after work!
I’m wearing red tomorrow…and I’ll post a pic like that blogger suggested!
I like the ‘live passionately’ organic cotton unisex tee! And the red rosey color is perfect!
I just dropped in for the first time! Wow! I can’t believe all the workout ideas. I used to get up at 3:55 A.M. when I was working. I won’t mention for how many years. I would do the tread-mill for half and hour and do an aerobic routine for another half and hour. The people at work used to think I was insane, but, I didn’t have any other time in the day. I also coached a junior high basketball team for many more years than i want to mention either, but it was my favorite game! My weight-training is chopping wood and carrying boxes of it into our fireplace. Oh, I basically still do the same workout routine, but, not so early!
I loved Andrew’s post!! Relationship fitness is certainly and issue with me and the BF. We are long distance right now and I notice that when we’re apart, he keeps up with his workouts and he eats fairly well. But when we visit, it’s all about lounging and stuffing our pie holes. Most times, I’m not sure if he’s more excited about seeing me or going on our scheduled Cheesecake Factory date. LOL
My favorite tee would be Laugh Often because Snarky should have been my middle name.
I weight train because I love feeling strong and powerful and looking like I can kick @$$ and take names.
MizFit has amazing arms. I’ve seen them in person!
I love those shirts! I can’t decide which one I like the most.. “choose happiness”, “chase dreams” or “live passionately”.
And I love your arms!
rock on Andrew!
I lift weights to feel strong, and that soreness the next day which means you actually did something.
sense of accomplishment and empowerment! That’s the main thing that keeps me movin’!
I love the “live mindfully” tee and the “choose happiness” tee!
I’ve just started lifting because my metabolism seems to be taking a dive as I approach 40. I’m hoping to build some muscle and stay in my jeans. ;o)
I like all the tees, but would probably choose “live simply” as I need the reminder not to keep up with the Joneses.
Dude, rock on to you carolinebee! Sounds like a no-nonsense type of attitude… which I love.
All the Best,
Andrew
Thanks for turning us onto the tee site — love those! I think Chase Dreams has to be one of the best
Love the message today as well. It’s gotta be about the long run!
At the moment, I am not weight training (unless you count the constant lifting of my 10 week old baby and my 2 and 3 year old toddlers), and I miss it!
I remember getting fit years ago, and because I had been weight training, even though I still had a lot of weight to lose, I looked better than when I had been the same weight and was not weight training. I looked slimmer, trimmer and fitter.
Now that I have lost so much weight this time, I am noticing the saggy loose skin I am getting. I desperately want to start weight training again to firm up as much of it as I can.
I love the Tees For Change. The sayings are simple but profound. I especially like “Choose Happiness”.
those are freaking awesome shirts!!
Those look like fantastic t’s. I am such a fan of companies that make the effort to be environmentally friendly.
cute shirts! i’d go w/ ‘today matters’; gotta give everything to each and every patient, each day. they count on me!
and, well, just bc its the first ?…i lift weights bc it makes me feel cool in the gym. but in addition, i love to flex in the mirror. not for anyone but me of course. it makes me smile, and laugh. welcome to the gun show…
I’ve been telling myself to breathe for the past month or so when I find myself in pickles – kid pickles, book-related pickles, haven’t been to the grocery store in two weeks pickles, can I really run another quarter of a mile pickles, etc. and have found that it REALLY HELPS in every situation and that life has been more calm and proactive instead of reactive since I made “breathe” my word of choice. That being said, I adore the “breathe deeply” shirts. “Choose happiness” is another one that caught my attention. With my Type A personality I sometimes forget and “choose stress” which is far less fun and probably even less productive.
I lift now because I like the way it makes me feel on days I don’t lift (and I use the term life lightly, since I just use hand weights – for now!). I also like the way my husband looks at me with my newly-defined muscles, truth be told.
What great tee’s. I really like the raglan sleeve that says “live courageously”.
Excellent
I’m sure…they were all acting under the movie director’s whim. They were not "tough," they were trying to act… sorry if I spoiled your make-believe fight.
clubber lang already won that fight