North of Here

Project Life: {Week 14}

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Thu, 23 May 2013 04:30:00 +0000

This week, (14) was the start of April (1-7). We were still in Victoria on Brad's parent's farm for the first 1/2 of the week, we also spent a little time in Melbourne looking at houses. By thursday we'd returned to Darwin, just in time to celebrate Brad's 30th.

A lot of photo's were taken - so I added an insert.

The first page holds all the photo's from back down south on the farm, and from Melbourne.

The next page, the insert holds some more farm pictures, and a picture of my parent's new greyhound Archie. He's the cutest little thing - I couldn't not include him!

And the back of the insert holds an invite and a photo from an event I went to and got to meet Libby Trickett. She was so inspirational and had some many words of wisdom that I took with me for my training for my competition.

The other photo's were from before Easter - the photoshoot I had with the local paper.

***
Project Life is a system created by Becky Higgins that is designed to simplify your efforts to document life and help get your photos into a book. To learn more about the product and how to get started, click here.

Doctors orders...

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Wed, 22 May 2013 12:24:00 +0000

Well it was my physio's anyway.

No exercise this week. It's been six days since I last exercised, aaaaand I think I'm going crazy.

Two weeks after my competition I've badly inflamed a disc in my back. I've gone from pretty much exercising everyday to once every two days (or there abouts) - to nothing.

I trained through back pain in the lead up to my competition because I wanted to look great on that stage and be the best I could be, and after my competition I didn't want my metabolism to go crazy so I kept training despite a niggly back.

And where did it put me - back to square one. I'm walking with a list (crooked), there is shooting pain in my right hip and lower back, and pain running down my leg.

I've had two days off work, the weekend spent laying flat on my back on the couch watching episodes of Arrow and at my desk at home scrapbooking.

I've been to the Drs and got painkillers and anti-inflamatory's. I'm on the mend and have been swimming in the lagoon below my apartment and doing the exercises like my physio said. I'm heading back to see him in the morning and hope things are on the mend.

I hate being injured!

What was your last injury and how did you survive not being able to exercise?

Project Life: {Week 13}

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Tue, 21 May 2013 01:30:00 +0000

This week (25 -31 March) fell over Easter weekend. Brad and I flew back to Victoria (cool, autumn weather). Hence the majority of the photos from Easter.

We also celebrated Brad's 30th early with his family around.

This first page has a miss-match of photos - from the plane trip, around the fire and a picture of my Dad dressed as 'Matt Preston' to judge the Good Friday family cookoff, pictures from Easter morning with Brad's nephews and a cake to celebrate Brad's 30th.

I decided to add in an extra page featuring the photo's from the Easter egg hunt in Brad's mum's 'fairy garden'. The kids love it. I also added a photo of Brad and his nephews snuggled up on the armchair. I love it.

I also added an A4 insert in this week, the front holding some email's organising the Easter family 'cook-off', the reverse the article from the newspaper I was featured in on Easter Sunday.

Monday Motivation: V.16

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Mon, 20 May 2013 05:34:00 +0000

Today I'm at home from work. I'm currently on the couch, heatpack on my back and drugged up. It's where I've been all weekend if fact.

You see for the past three weeks (roughly) I've had a niggly, sore back. I've been ignoring it though. Pushing through training, because first I was week or so out from competition. Then, after my competition I've pushed through training because I wanted to keep fit and stay on track.

Well in the end, not listening to my body and resting like I should have been doing backfired. Last Friday it was lifting weights back at Crossfit that 'broke the camel's back'. I pushed myself that little bit too much - and as a result I badly 'inflamed' a disc in my lower back.

I've been in excruciating pain and am hardly able to walk, let alone run or lift weights.

But it puts things into perspective, the struggle I'm going through has made me realise I have to take better care of my body. I have to rest when it tells me too, I have to get an appropriate amount of sleep and take rest days when exercising.

After all, how am I supposed to lift PB's at crossfit, run my fastest 5km or build muscle if I'm not nourishing my body.

What have you gone through lately that's been tough and taught you a lesson?

Monday Motivation is a weekly blog post sharing a quote I've found to help get me (or you through the week).

Project Life: {Week 12}

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Sun, 19 May 2013 10:08:00 +0000

So I've caught up on project life! I've just spent my weekend scrapbooking and printing off photos from weeks 15 through to 19. And now I'll start back at Week 12 (18-24 March).

This week it rained a bit and we had a few spectacular lightening storms that I captured. On the other end of the spectrum, Brad and I enjoyed the sunshine on the Sunday afternoon too. I was up early for morning cardio sessions, my competition bikini arrived, and I baked a yummo lemon tart for dinner at Brad's Uncle & Aunty's.

That time I was on page three of the local newspaper

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Wed, 15 May 2013 20:30:00 +0000

So back late last year I was contacted by a photographer via instagram asking if I was interested in doing a photoshoot for the local newspaper, the NT News. At the time I was interested, and had just finished my last fitness model competition.

Then I fractured my wrist... the shoot was put on hold and Michael got back in touch with me earlier this year.

I was just over a month out from my competition and it was just before Easter and we set up the shoot for one evening at my gym while it was quiet.

It was such a bizarre and weird experience, stripping off to a crop top at the gym and having a stranger photograph me doing exercises at the gym! I slowly warmed up and knew what he meant be smile, part my lips, tilt my head a certain way etc.

I was wary about being in the paper, you see it was on page 3 where the usual 'sunday stunner' is featured. Some model want-to-be etc. But I made sure it was going to be photographed in the gym and made sure I mentioned I was into health and fitness etc when the journalist called.

And here's a couple of shots from the photoshoot:

Photographs copyright Michael Franchi

After a fitness model competition- what's next?

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Tue, 14 May 2013 00:15:00 +0000

Last week (the week after my competition) I had my birthday, a couple of morning tea's at work, dinner out for my birthday (twice) and drinks.I still managed to eat relatively good - trying to keep in the back of my mind to try and keep my protein levels up, and not eat too many carbs.

Exercise wise, I was conscious not to do nothing. I was back at the gym lifting weights on Tuesday and Thursday nights and also went for two runs and did a set of stair sprints.

Today I'm sharing what's next - how to I go from eating so strictly and training 8 times a week to trying to live a balanced life. I'm not saying a 'normal' life - but choosing balanced because what exactly is normal?

Reverse Dieting

I'm not going to just fall off the competition diet, and binge eat all the foods I've been craving these past few months. This post-competition I'm going to be smarter and wiser.

During this competition prep I was researching along the way better ways to get back to reality after a show. People like the esteemed Layne Norton, fellow competitors, Amanda Marie, Jill Taylor from Activewear online and Charlotte Mary are all advocates for 'reverse dieting'. I won't go into detail, but it's all about coming off a competition prep diet and getting back to normal a healthy way keeping your metabolism in check.

For me it means maintaining, then slowly backing off cardio. Keeping in weights training. It will also involve keeping my protein levels high, and slowly adding in carbohydrates and fats.

It's all about trying to not let your weight skyrocket after a competition and put on a lot of fat. So far I'm doing good, the highest 'weight' I put on was 3.2kg, and has now started falling again. I'm eating more carbs and fats already and am feeling strong.

It's all about balance

If you've been following my instagram feed you will have noticed I've indulged in a few treats (a colleagues homemade greek vanilla slice, cupcakes, chocolate, mexican and a few cocktails). I've been conscious to indulge in my 'cravings' and eat those things I want to without reservation.

However from now on it's about balancing a once (or twice) a week treat with nourishing, whole foods for the rest of the time.

2 June 2013: NT Powerade City2Surf -12km

I have already registered to run the NT City2Surf. It's on in a few weeks. Bad news is at the moment I can't run more than 3.5km without my calves getting super tight and almost crampy.

This run will more than likely be a motivator to get my back running again. I'm looking forward to it.

Maintaining my exercise schedule

I'll be planning in weights sessions 4 times at week to keep the muscle I've built over the past few months. I'm going to get a new program written by my trainer. As mentioned above, I'll also be planning in runs and keeping in cardio like spin class or body attack also.

Getting back into Crossfit

I miss the social aspect of Crossfit, the varied exercises and the high fitness levels I got from it. I miss my friends from Crossfit Darwin and they miss me too - often asking when I'm coming back! At this stage I'm planning on adding in one session a week, and building up from there.

What are your next exercise/fitness goals?
What keeps you motivated?

Second Fitness Model Competition - Evaluation part 2: One week out and Comp Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Fri, 10 May 2013 20:30:00 +0000

You can read about my 16 week preparation here. But today I'm sharing my final week of preparation and competition day details!

One week out

I wrote this post mid-way through my final week leading up to my competition, talking about the realities of preparing for a bodybuilding competition.

The final week for me was about keeping my caloric intake up, eating more protein, more food. I also carb-cycled and waterloaded.

For those unfamiliar with it there are plenty of articles you can read but basically you drink a heap more water and cut your carbs, then start depleting your water closer to competition day and start "carbing up". This makes you store as little fluid as possible in your body, and the carbohydrates bulk out your muscles.

This cycling made me really tired and fatigued at the start of the week, and then full of energy as I got to eat carbs again - yummy oats! :)

For my final few days of weight training I stuck to lighter weights and higher reps and kept doing cardio all the way up to Thursday morning.

I practiced my posing almost everyday and then it was the fun stuff - waxing, tans, makeup, hair!!

Competition Day

I woke early at 6am and woke feeling fresh and well rested. Surprisingly I didn't have a sleepless night tossing and turning. It was strange, I felt focused and relaxed.

I had 2 poached eggs with helgas multigrain toast with fig jam and a strong coffee for breakfast with all my vitamins.

By 7am Brad had woken up and put my coat of Jan Tana (hi definition) on. On top of my two coats of tan it was going on well and looked fanastic! He did a great job making it as even and perfect as he could, wiping it on and dabbing and patting it with the applicator.

The night before I'd semi packed my bag, and a bag of food for before and after (choc-chip muesli bars, lollies, gatorade and an apple and banana. In my comp bag I packed my bikini and sports outfit, a change of clothes, makeup wipes, tissues, paper towel, my tan, glaze and applicator. I also packed makeup, bronzer and lipgloss, my shoes, competition heels and jewellery.

Before getting my hair and makeup done, I rested at home in the air-conditioning reading my book. I was feeling quite relaxed and not anxious at all! I had a 9am hair appointment about 20 minutes from home. I got my hair done, it only took an hour for my lovely hairdresser Andrea to clip my extensions in and curl my hair.

I then turned up to my makeup appointment an hour early at 10am and ran into Andrea, a fellow competitor, but friend (we share the same coach). Her makeup appointment was at 10am, so we just chatted while she had hers done.

My turn at 11am. I ended up getting blue eye-shadow done, which I was a bit scared about at first, but once the fake eyelashes went on it looked great! I drove the quick 5 minute drive to the venue (the Darwin Entertainment Centre) and started getting ready. By this time it was about mid-day - show time wasn't till about 1.30 (Fitness Model's were first on).

Backstage I set up my things. I was relaxed and feeling good. The vibe backstage was great. There was a fantastic bunch of girls, some newbies looking to Andrea and I (who both competed last year) for advice. Everyone was kind and sharing, sharing weights, bikini bite ( a special glue to hold bikini's in place) and casual chatting.

I had my 'cousin-in-law' Kate backstage to help me again this year. She touched up my tan for my, evening it out and applying a light amount of glaze to give me a slight sheen. She also helped me put my bikini and jewelery on and glue my bikini too! Love that girl!!

There was a mix of nervousness and heaps of excitement in the air. It was so so nice to have Marnie, my coach backstage this year - she was competing in Figure later on. I'm so proud of her and thankful for all her help - not only has she been preparing herself for the competition, but Andrea and I!!

This year I felt so different backstage. I think just knowing what happens backstage, being on stage before and having some practice doing Miss Blood Sweat & Fears the other week helped settle my nerves and boost my confidence a little. (A shot of vodka may have helped too).

It's show time!

Bikini round was first up! I was fourth to walk on stage (out of 9 other girls). Before lining up just off stage I remember jumping up and down in the halls and saying how excited I was to Marnie (after she told me "boobs out, butt out, hips back...") HAHA!

Walking on stage I was feeling pumped (a tiny bit nervous), but excited. I was smiling, naturally and couldn't wait to look out to the seats and try and find some familiar faces. I eventually found a couple of good friends, El and Karla and smiled even bigger when I saw them waving and whistling back!!

My walk went well, and I took my time posing. I remember looking at the judges faces too and taking the time to really look at them. For the bikini round they split the group and we did our quarter turns.

I was surprised they then called about 5 of us forward - including myself - I had to remind myself what number I was!

Coming off stage, I was beaming. Excited and couldn't believe I'd been called forward for a second look! We had about 15-20 minutes to get changed into our sports gear. I checked my phone and found a couple of messages - one from Brad and Karla saying I did an awesome job!

Kate came backstage and she said her and Brad were sitting just behind El and Karla and that I did a great job and didn't look nervous at all. Yay! She helped me get changed into my fitness gear without getting tan anywhere and touched up my tan again. I added lipgloss, then it was time to jump back on stage again!!

After our T walks, we did our quarter turns again, and I got called up again. We got shuffled around and then we kept posing in our line for what felt like an eternity. I was chatting to Andrea who was next to me in the line up and kept moving my posing around, focusing on my good points, and flexing as hard as I could and smiling - always smiling!

The judges then had made their decision and called 7 girls forward, leaving myself and two other girls - one from my gym standing behind. I thought, "Oh bugger that means I didn't get a place"... But then... I thought, hang on - there are only three of us left at the back - that mean's I have a place.

They called Rachel first (the blonde girl from my gym), she got third, and then my heart was RACING! Oh my gosh - never in a million years would I think I would get a placing - and here I was about to find out if I got first or second place....

They called my number - 12. I got 2nd place - INBA NT Natural Physique Titles Fitness Model 2013. Holy moley. I was in shock, big time! I couldn't smile properly, I couldn't think. I had a trophy in my hand! AHHH! So excited!!

After the competition

I walked off stage and handed back my trophy (a slight hiccup - they had to use the same ones as all the trophy's didn't turn up!)... and congratulated the other girls. I quickly went backstage, and watched the overall's and then went out for intermission.

I saw Kate and Brad and Brad's cousin Mick's girlfriend Jacinta. I was so happy, gave Brad a big kiss. Everyone was excited and happy. I got a few photos - one with Brad below and one with Kate.

It was such a huge day. And even today, writing this almost a week later I can't believe it's all over and it's all happened!

Fitness Finds: My gym bag

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Thu, 09 May 2013 20:30:00 +0000

This week's "Fitness Find" is the website 'My Gym Bag'.

You know those websites that you have to register for and they have sales based on a time limit? It's one of those - and if you're into fitness you'd better register!

Their philosophy is to "provide the best health and fitness brands hand-picked by four fitness connoisseurs on a mission to bring everyone the good life without the steep price".

Last week I missed out of nabbing a container of my favourite Defin8 pre-workout for $58! I was spewing! They feature other big name brands such as Nike, Russel Athletic, Asics, Lonsdale and more.

***

Fitness Finds is a post series where I'll share the latest fitness fashion, trends, equipment, exercises and other stuff that I think is pretty cool!

Second Fitness Model competition - Evaluation part 1: Preparation

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Thu, 09 May 2013 00:32:00 +0000

Woah! What a weekend!

I can't believe it, it's over.

12 weeks of an all encompassing planning, preparing, cooking and training in the lead up to the INBA NT Natural Physique Titles 2013 - Fitness Model Competition is over.

In this post I'll go through how I prepared for the comp in the months leading up to it, and later this week I'll share my thoughts about competition day and the excitement of it all. (Sorry to leave you hanging)!!

"Off season" preparation (24 weeks - 16 weeks)

After last year's preparations for my September comp, I knew I wanted to do things differently this time.

I started back at the gym late last year with my coach Marnie doing an FST7 training program to build muscle and a plan to stay as lean, cleaning up my diet and sticking to once a week cheat meals etc. I had been solely focusing

But then I fractured my wrist in late November! Between then and January I kind of relaxed a little, lived life. Took some time off and relaxed. But I did relax a little too much... :/

Lead up preparation (15 weeks - 13 weeks)

In the new year, I got back into the gym in after I got the go ahead from my Doctor and worked my little butt off. I started to train consistently doing my FST7 training program and 1-2 cardio sessions (a quick run, stair sprints etc).

Competition prep (12 weeks - 4 weeks)

Now was the time to change up my workout program, with a four day split (body part) weights program. Lifting heavy bro'. 80% of my max. I was still doing compound exercises I enjoyed at crossfit - deadlifts, squats, lunges etc. Throughout this time I wasn't doing any specific core work, it was all the four day split.

Around the 12 week mark I also kept up with my two HIIT sessions a week - short runs or stair sprints still. I used myfitnesspal to track my calories and macros around this time too, making sure I was getting enough protein and carbs to keep building muscle!

Week in, week out I made sure I did my four weights sessions and two cardio sessions a week. I was eating better, and sticking to my one cheat meal a week. I cut out all processed foods and added sugars, and ate lots of protein - chicken, kangaroo sausages, fish and steak too. I ate salads and vegies, and made sure to drink my protein shakes after a workout, my define8 pre-workout before cardio and BCAA's during training to aid recovery.

Late February and early March I stepped up my cardio and started doing three, then four workouts per week on top of my four weights sessions. I stuck to mainly stair and hill sprints as they're close to my house and HIIT training is the best!

At the end of March I also had a photoshoot with a photographer from the NT News about my progress for the upcoming competition.

One month out (4 weeks)

I stayed good over Easter, only allowing myself one treat meal and a couple of smaller treats (hot cross bun for breaky anyone!!) I did a four week update here. My training was consistent and I didn't skip a session. It was starting to get hard to get up early and do cardio without my pre-workouts that's for sure!

My diet changed again here, with my protein macro nutrient levels increasing and carbohydrate and fats decreasing again. I became a cooking (and eating) machine! My protein shakes and supplements were out so more food was in. I was eating 6 meals a day, heaps of egg whites, chicken, lean pork and veggies and salad galore!!

I also started to practice more and more in my heels for stage, and watched competitions on you tube and my own competition from last year to see where I could improve!

Check back in on Saturday to read on how I went one week out and on competition day!!

INBA NT Natural Physique Titles - Fitness Model competition

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Tue, 07 May 2013 23:18:00 +0000

I can't believe it.

I'm still in shock.

I came 2nd!! Are you kidding me?!

I had an absolute blast on Sunday. 12 weeks (and more) of dieting, cooking, planning workouts, lifting heavy weights, cardio, stair sprints, treadmill walking, hill sprints, grocery shopping, eating and eating....

It all obviously paid off and somehow I placed 2nd in a group of 10 amazing girls!

Over the next couple of weeks I'll have posts about the lead up to the competition and how I prepared, competition week and on the day, the professional pics, what's happens straight after a comp and what's next for me!

Fitness Finds: Lookout leggings!

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Fri, 03 May 2013 12:54:00 +0000

I thought I'd share some of the fun (and bright) leggings that are available lately. It's still quite warm up here in Darwin, but it doesn't stop me lusting over gorgeous leggings that my friends down south can start wearing while out on their runs, at yoga or at the gym!

1. Nike Printed Leggings - Asos $55, 2. Flash Dance Blade full length tight Running Bare $99.99, 3. Women's Studio Pure SL tights Adidas $60, 4. Wunder Under Pant reversible Lululemon $109

I personally love the Nike ones from Asos! How cool do they look dressed down in a sporty/street look for day wear?

What is your favourite? Are you in need for a new pair of 3/4 or full length leggings/tights this winter? Do you have a favourite brand?

***

Fitness Finds is a post series where I'll share the latest fitness fashion, trends, equipment, exercises and other stuff that I think is pretty cool!

Final week of competition prep - INBA NT Natural Physique Titles

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Wed, 01 May 2013 12:51:00 +0000

I am now down to the 'pointy end' of competition prep for my second Fitness Model competition. There is only three full days until competition day.

I had drafted this post yesterday, but between work and the gym I ran out of time. And tonight, after eating my dinner of chicken breast, broccolini, zucchini and cabbage I then proceeded to make 9 meals for the next three days (my morning and afternoon snacks and lunches), and then clean the pantry out.

I've been a zombie at work, not being able concentrate properly and getting up to pee every 20-30 minutes at work. My stair sprints this morning were a killer, I literally felt like my legs weren't a part of my body. I was on auto pilot.

While these things are fresh on my mind, and to give you an idea of what it's like to prepare for a body sculpting competition read on...

The reality of competition prep:
* Eating no carbohydrates is terrible. Terribly draining, mentally exhausting and physically energy-sucking. If anyone tells you otherwise, they're insane.
* Water loading WILL make you go to the toilet one million times a day.
* You get really sick of frozen egg whites (if that's what you choose).
* You think about your next meal all the time, and hope it coincides outside of meeting times at work.
* Unfortunately you have to forgo a fair amount of coffee, milkshake, market, lunch and dinner dates with your friends/family.
* You spend approximately 1-1.5 hours at the supermarket each week (mainly in the deli/fruit & veg section).
* Your grocery bill WILL increase. Chicken breasts do cost a fair bit, and when you're eating around 6 breast a week (plus), it adds up.
* Unless you have muscle meals direct, you'll spend about 4 hours in the kitchen each week prepping and cooking meals.
* Meal prep times do decrease as you get better at it.
* The double steamer and baking tray will become your best friend.
* If you aren't already, you'll become best friends with the staff at your gym because you're there every day!

Not long now. Lots of carbs begin tomorrow, but unfortunately the water decreases.

I'm excited and pumped. :)

If you want to know anything else about competition prep - ask away! Happy to answer any questions you may have.

If you didn't already see it. There was a feature on the Sunrise morning program on body sculpting (filmed at the Sydney Fitness Expo/INBA comp the other week). It's another great insight into this sport. Check out the Sunrise feature here.

'Healthier Anzac Biscuits'

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 23:56:00 +0000

Fresh out of the oven!

I am thankful for those who made sacrifices that allowed us to have a day off work to think about their contribution to our county and the freedoms and values we have today.

I am thankful that yesterday I got to have a sleep in, go to the gym and spend 2 hours there, relax with family, eat fresh, healthy foods, watch the Collingwood Vs Essendon AFL match on TV and bake ANZAC biscuits.

It's tradition to eat ANZAC biscuits in late April. Coles and Woolworths start selling them by the bucketload. But I definitely prefer homemade ones. Crunchy ones with a little bit of give in the centre. Perfect!

The last week I've been scouting for a 'healthier' version. I found traditional recipes, one on the Lorna Jane blog, ones that are super healthy, Teresa Cutter's three different versions and more...

But I eventually came across a tweet from Channel Nine's official nutritionist, Joanna McMillan (who I think is brilliant) that she linked a healthier recipe version of. She tweeted a recipe to ones that had "Goodness BARLEYmax" in them. I asked Joanna on twitter and she said the barley and oats mix increases fibre & beta-glucan levels in the biscuits.

I didn't have these, so I just used oats, subbed plain flour for wholemeal plain flour and used raw caster sugar.

The verdict was crunchy, but a smidge chewy in the middle Anzac biscuits! Perfecto!

Monday Motivation: V.15

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 13:02:00 +0000

"Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage".
Anais Nin

Miss Blood Sweat & Fears Heat 3.

Last night I stepped up to the lights and did something I wasn't very comfortable doing. I was stretched outside of my comfort zone, and it was nerve wracking and scary. I was pooing my pants.

But it was something that I wanted to do. To challenge myself.

Yes it was a model contest. Yes it was in a pub. But it was the third heat to get into the grandfinal and be in the running to be the "face of" - Blood, Sweat & Fears, "Miss Blood, Sweat & Fears".

It was judged by two local radio presenters, Hopper & Carly from Blood, Sweat & Fears and another "random" judge. We had two rounds - a fitness wear/active wear round and a bikini round.

Apart from last year's fitness model competition where I stood on stage in front of hundreds of people and 'modeled' - I'd never done anything like this before.

In just under two week's time I'm entering another fitness model competition, and figured I needed the practice on stage...

So I got up there. Plucked some courage from god knows where and strutted my stuff.

You see life is all about having the courage to stand up, believe in yourself, try new things and laugh. Its about doing something new for you and stepping outside your comfort zone.

You see, you never know what the outcome will be of you stepping up to the plate.

You always learn something new, whether it be good or bad and in my opinion there's always something to gain.

(And for those wondering I did gain something from last night - a place in the Grandfinal of Miss Blood Sweat &Fears this Wednesday night!) ***

Monday Motivation is a weekly blog post sharing a quote I've found to help get me (or you through the week).

Project Life: {Week 11}

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 12:51:00 +0000

Playing catch up still. Up to Week 11 here on the blog but have finished scrapbooking up to week 13. I've printed off pictures up to week 16 and they're ready to add 'bits and pieces' and notes, embellishments to.

Here's week 11:

This week seemed like another 'usual' week. Work, gym etc. We got our new outdoor setting and massive day bed delivered. Yay we can finally enjoy our balcony!

We also went along to the local football Grandfinal and Brad's team (the premier league) made it - and won!

I also went to the movies with a couple of friends to see Broken City. :) Good movie!

Fitness Finds: Lululemon Om Finder App

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 02:45:00 +0000

Image from the Lululemon website

What:Lululemon Om Finder app

Have you moved house lately and need a new yoga haunt?
Visiting a friend in a different city?
Looking for a new yoga studio?
Wanting to find a yoga class near you that's on in the next hour?

This ios app answers all these questions and more! Developed by Lululemon, the Om Finder app helps track down yoga and pilates studios near you (or in another location), and enable you to book into a class, share it with friends and more.

Here's a quick little video that gives you the run down of how the app works:

The test:

I did a search using 'my location' (Darwin) and it was picking up studio's in Bali! The only 'registered' studio in Darwin is Encore Pilates (which isn't my 'local').

I was a bit disappointed about this and mentioned it on my blog facebook page, Lululemon responded and are emailing me some details about how to get my local Agoy Yoga onto the app.

So I selected 'Encore Pilates' for the time being, and it pulls up a schedule, who the teachers are and further information (phone number, address, website and directions). I also have the option to share it via email, twitter or text message.

Upon finding a class to book into in the schedule part, you can see when it is, who the teacher is, directions if you need them and you can also add the class to your calendar and invite a friend via Facebook!

The good:

It's clever and fresh looking.
Love that you can invite friends on facebook! The more the merrier!
This would be perfect when travelling, on holidays or visiting friends and family. Takes the hassle out of 'googling' to find a local yoga studio.
In built directions - perfect for finding new studios!
You can create a 'profile' and login (via facebook - easy!) which allows you to view your activites and create favourites!

The bad:

The text in some of the input boxes is sometimes hard to read (it's small and light grey). Considering someone with good eyesight like myself finds it hard to read...
Relies on either Studios or Lululemon to be added to the app.
The 'map' part didn't display the studios. It only displayed them in list view. (Not sure if it was meant to or not, but it'd be a handy addition)

Where to get it?

You will find it in the itunes app store.

Have you tried yoga?
Have you downloaded the Om Finder app yet?

belVita Breakfast - Cranberry: Product Talk

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:49:00 +0000

*This is a product talk by Nuffnang post.

I've always been a fan of breakfast.

When I was little I used to love fruit loops or rice bubbles. Then it was almost always vegemite on toast, or cornflakes with cream and sugar (and in the summer srawberries or peaches).

More recently in the last couple of years, before my 'fitness loving days' it used to be a bowl of just right and some white toast with jam or peanut butter or vegemite.

Nothing really wrong with those choices...

But today I'm a little wiser and now now I know the importance of having a balanced breakfast that has a source of fibre, has low GI releasing carbohydrates, and some kind of protein source to get your metabolism firing.

According to Science Daily, "eating a breakfast rich in protein significantly improves appetite control and reduces unhealthy snacking on high-fat or high-sugar foods in the evening".

One of my work colleagues introduced me to belVita Breakfast a few months back, bringing in the Milk & Cereal variety. I loved them!!

I had the opportunity to review the new belVita Breakfast(Cranberry) biscuits and jumped at the opportunity.

They're perfect for a quick breakfast while one the go. They're made with five wholegrains, are low GI,and a source of fibre (great to keep things moving along!). Just one serve of the belVita cranberry variety contains 2.9g of fibre (10% of your daily intake), and almost half your daily target (48g) of wholegrains!

As I'm on a strict (competition) diet that restricts my carb intake at the moment, I shared these around at work and my work colleagues loved them! I must admit, I couldn't NOT have a taste, so I factored these into my intake for the day and they worked in perfectly!

belVita Breakfast (Cranberry) biscuits are crunchy, and slightly sweet with cranberries dotted through. I love them and will defnitely buy them again. To keep things balanced I would combine these with a low fat Chobani yoghurt and some blueberries.

There are five flavours to try including the new Cranberry variety, Honey & Nut with choc chip, Milk & Cereals, Crunchy Oats, and Fruit & Fibre.

*This is a product talk by Nuffnang post. I didn't receive payment for this post, but I did receive an item in exchange for this review. As I'm all for honesty and keeping stuff real, this will not affect my opinion on this product.

Monday Motivation: v.15

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 04:21:00 +0000

"One of the hardest parts of life is deciding whether to walk away or try harder."

Source: mnblg.tumblr.com via Ali on Pinterest

So today's post it's a little sad. But you know what - I'm feeling sad and moving on and up from it. I'm going to learn from this shit and move on.

This past weekend was tough. Today I'm doing a little reflecting because of it.

This competition prep has been much harder on my mental and emotional state, and relationships with those around me than I thought it had been.

I've only got three weeks of it left. Three weeks of dieting, cooking, meal planning, eating 6 meals a day and counting macro nutrients and watching my calories. Only two more weeks of actual training - and then it'll all be done.

That mean's I've spent the last nine weeks being a little selfish and treating those around me crappy. I've been emotional, moody and sometimes frustrated, bloody tired and angry.

So I'm getting personal over here. Chatting about something that some people don't. The effect this style of living has on their relationships...

Over the weekend I had a chat to better half and realised I've been a too selfish these past twelve weeks. But I am not giving up on anything, I'm just going to try harder. Harder on my relationship to not take things for granted and put a little extra love back into it.

After all - relationships are about nurture, growth and commitment.

***
Monday Motivation is a weekly blog post sharing a quote I've found to help get me (or you through the week).

Fitness Finds: Citrus Twist

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 22:30:00 +0000

While it’s still warm up in Northern Australia where I reside, after visiting family back in Victoria last week I definitely know it’s starting to cool down!

The mornings are cooling down, the days are crisper and the evenings getting darker quicker!

So I thought, there's no better time to brighten up your fitness wear wardrobe with these bright, citrus and almost spring themed fitness finds!

1. Lorna Jane Fleur Run Short $62.99 | 2. Running Bare Push up crop - Tequila Sunrise $35 (on sale) 3. Adidas Tennis Climalite Visor $15

4. Stella McCartney (from Style Runner) Essential Studio Gillet - Bliss Coral $140

***

Fitness Finds is a post series where I'll share the latest fitness fashion, trends, equipment, exercises and other stuff that I think is pretty cool!

Competition prep: Four week out update

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 23:30:00 +0000

It's been a while since I last updated you guys on my preparations for my second Fitness Model competition.

Since then my training has changed. No more FST7 training, but lifting heavy and training a seperate body area once a week. I have a four day split (Bi's & Chest, Shoulders & triceps, Back and Legs). I then have added in four days of cardio also.

Interval training such as hill sprints and stair sprints have been my friend!

Hill Sprints at the Darwin Waterfront precinct

In terms of diet, I've had a few changes along the way. Slowly decreasing my carb intake, lowering fats and upping protein.

At four weeks out I'm eating a ridiculous amount of protein - but I need to in order to keep my muscle! I've also cut out all supplements and protein powders, BCAAs, you name it! I'm competing in a natural competition - and even though I haven't been taking anything off the books I still want my body to be clean, fit and healthy all in a natural state by the time I step on stage!

Just some of the goodies I've been eating. Preparation is key!

My boyfriend has been taking progress pictures of me since my last comp, and while he's not the best photographer - he does the job!

He took these for me last night:

I'm happy with how I have been progressing and the amount of muscle I've been able to build in such a short time (since January). I've been eating healthy food, and training hard. This time around I've felt like I know a lot more about what to do, what to eat and how to train and the effects all of it has on my body.

I'm still not 100% happy with some of my areas, especially my legs and glutes - but oh well. It's all about being better than my previous self, and I can see that I am already.

Promise to have another update before competition. If you have any questions specially about prepping for a show - post one below and I might do a Q&A series!

Observations from the gym: the 5.30am edition

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 23:30:00 +0000

Because I was heading away over Easter, I thought I'd be a good girl and get my shoulder and tri's weights session out of the way last Thursday morning, rather than after work like I usually do and then have to rush packing my bag, cleaning the house, cooking dinner etc.

My boyfriend and I set both our alarms for 5am - him saying he'd just simply go to work earlier also and encourage me to get my foot out of the door and off to the gym. (What a lovely boy!)

I was out of bed, changed and drinking me pre-workout (Beta Alanine and Creatine) for a bit of extra energy before he even put a foot outside the doona!

I got to the gym at 5.30am ready for my workout. Here's a few thoughts from this morning's workout, and things I noticed:

**How on earth do trainers be perky at that time of the morning? Two trainers who I often see at night where also there this morning, happy and chirpy

**Guys whinge a lot. When there are less people in the gym you overhear more conversations. Today these two guys were working out saying how tired they were, and going light on exercises

**Your eyes are quite bleary. Lifting heavy weights are hard enough, but lifting them with red, blurry eyes. That's a whole other story.

**You do happen to feel amazing for the rest of the day. A workout in the morning whether it be cardio or weights does make you feel amazing for the rest of the day.

Are you an early riser? Or do you prefer to workout in the evenings?

Monday Motivation v.14

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Sun, 07 Apr 2013 23:51:00 +0000

"A diamond is a piece of charcoal that handled stress exceptionally well." Unknown

Life is all about ups and downs. Celebrating the ups and reflecting on the downs. I had been handling stress quite well lately.

After chatting to someone, life was put into perspective for me. But over the weekend I hit a snag....

I had a lot on my 'to do' list. And my boyfriend kept saying to me to 'just relax'. I kept getting myself worked up and stressed - as in a couple of times of the weekend. In those moments I know I need to distance myself and take time to breathe.

I searched for this little quote this morning, and thought it was a perfect example of how, when stress is handled well the outcomes are totally different.

My tips on handling stress:
* Zone out and relax. This one for me is not thinking of 'relaxation time' as scrapbooking, running or reading. They all involve me still having to think. I'm going to make an appointment with myself to go to yoga once a week.
* If you're feeling anxious/stressed, remove yourself from the area/room/conflict if you can. Step away.
* Find something that soothes you - mine is music and reading. I've hooked onto a good book at the moment, and even though my mind is still whirring it does relax me and remove me from the outside world.

Boost your energy levels after a break or holiday

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 12:23:00 +0000

Often feel a little lack-luster after a holiday? Run down with the cold/flu or just struggling to get back into the swing of things?

You've come to the right place!

I had a wonderful and relaxing 6 days off over Easter at my boyfriends parents farm. Even though I'm now on a competition diet and exercise regime I still ate a few treats and laid off my training a fraction (no access to weights = no lifting weights).

Instead I focused on getting good food when I could, still did some exercise in the form of jogging, interval based treadmill sprints and incline walking and some body weight exercises.

After flying back into Darwin last night, unpacking, getting the groceries and today going back to work I thought about the ways I try and get my energy levels back up quickly.

1. Get back into your routine
Last night I made sure we went to the supermarket and grabbed a few essentials (fresh fruit and veg, kangaroo sausages, chicken, milk and OJ for Brad, food for dinner for a couple of nights and a few other bits and pieces). In my world if I have good food prepped in the fridge ready to rock and roll I stay on track. Back at work today I ate healthy meals and immediately felt better.

I went to the gym tonight even though I was still lacking a little enthusiasm. But it was important to get my blood pumping again and lift some heavy weights.

2. Eat GOOD foods. Think healthy fats to keep your brain active, lots of leafy greens, vegetables and fruit. Also balance it out with complex carbohydrates like brown rice, oats and sweet potato. The most important part is to k

3. SLEEP! Try and get your sleeping patterns back to 'normal' quickly. Head to bed at a reasonable time, and don't sleep in. Try and sleep on the plane too if you're flying somewhere.

4. Allow a little time for yourself.
After a holiday we often find ourselves wishing we were back on holidays. Instead plan something that you enjoy for a couple of days time or the upcoming weekend. It will give you something to look forward to!

How do you get your energy levels back up quick after a holiday?

Monday Motivation: V.13

noreply@blogger.com (Ali) — Sun, 31 Mar 2013 21:30:00 +0000

"There are far better things ahead than any we leave behind" Jon Ocuff

I found this quote on a friend's pinterest board last week and it struck a chord with me.

Too often I know I found myself dwelling on the past, my past mistakes, slip ups and falls. I've always been a negative person, but in light of this week's quote and my aim to be a more positive me - that doesn't have to be the case.

Right now I'm away from home for 6 days over Easter. Before it I was thinking about the amazing time I was going to have.

Despite feeling yuck at the start of last week with bloat (and other womanly issues), and having a few slip ups diet wise I'd been looking ahead and how I can do better.

For my competition diet and training over the Easter holiday I planned out my meals in advance using myfitnesspal, factoring in a couple of treats and planned out my training (treadmill hill sprints) and steady state jogs along with a couple of weights sessions too.

Things can only get better. Right?

***
Monday Motivation is a weekly blog post sharing a quote I've found to help get me (or you through the week).