These weeks are flying by, I swear.  I can’t believe I’m done with Week 9.  I really enjoyed this week.  Legs and Arms this week were by far two of my favorite circuits, but I didn’t really care for Abs to be honest.  That being said, I realllly felt it the next day which is always fun.  I just wanted to flex in every single mirror I passed, but I think that happens to every workout warrior out there who does an ab circuit.

I’m starting this week off strong.  It is incomparably nice here and I am loving every single minute of it.  I am really appreciating spring because I feel like we earned it.  My April goal of running outside more is going swimmingly.  I knocked out 3 outdoor miles (one of them not logged here) before heading in to make a bowl of protein filled oatmeal.

I don’t know if it’s because of the BBG circuits or what, but my runs these days have been feeling really solid.  I think it is because I’m focusing more on building up my muscles than just cardio-ing after cardio-ing.  If you are a runner and are looking to improve your endurance and speed, definitely check out Kayla Itsine’s Bikini Body Guide.

In other news, I am trying like crazy to up my protein game.  Recently, I have been doing whatever I can to sneak it in as much as I can.  I have added two egg whites to my oatmeal in addition to peanut butter, I have added more protein to my lunches and snacks, and now, I have started adding protein shakes to my daily regimen and I have finally found the perfect recipe.

I have a really hard time just drinking the powder straight, so this recipe was everything I could dream of and more.

Vanilla Banana Smoothie of Dreams

-1 scoop of vanilla protein powder

-1/2 cup of almond milk

-1/2 cup of water

-1/2 a frozen banana

-ice as needed

-dash of cinnamon

Blend it all together and the frothy deliciousness does not disappoint.  I’m not much of a meat eater, so any way I can up the protein, the better.  Protein is the building block for bones, muscle, cartilage, skin, and a whole host of other things in the body.  It is essential for anyone who works out and especially for those who are kicking things up a notch.  Don’t know how much to consume?  Check out apps like myfitnesspal that can help you track exactly how much you’re getting and how much you need.

-sj