Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Quaker Heart Healthy Challenge - A Recap


 A couple of weeks ago I joined the Quaker Heart Health Challenge which is inspiring women to take charge of their health by making small changes each day.  You can do this through exercise, healthy cooking, or other small lifestyle changes - and Quaker has loads of tips to help you along the way.
My goals were to add in stretching and lunges, and to run a 10 mile race.  I already have a fairly solid exercise regimen, so I didn't want to overhaul that.  Since the challenge, I have worked out every day.  I've run, I've lifted weights, and I've done yoga.  And yes, I've incorporated more stretches and lunges in!
I also ran that 10 mile race.  To tell you the truth, I had a bit of a cold and wasn't too excited about doing it as race day approached.  But because I'd pledged on my blog to do it as part of this challenge, I knew I couldn't back out.  I'm glad I ran it - while my time wasn't quite what I'd hoped for, I got outside on a beautiful day and gave it my best.  I have no doubt that my lungs and legs are only stronger because of it, and this may help me in my next race.  I'm hoping to do a half marathon in March.  I haven't registered yet, but I think having successfully completed the Quaker challenge may be just the push I need to send in my registration!
I hope you'll try this fun challenge!  And you don't have to run 10 miles to do so - just be committed to making small healthy 5 minute changes to your daily life.

Here is your change to leave a comment!  February is National Heart Health month. Even if it’s only 5 more minutes a day, what extra step will you take to stay fit?
For your chance to win $750 complete these two steps:
1.Share the challenge with your friends
2.Tell us that you’ve invited your friends to join the challenge AND share the extra step you’ll take to stay fit below
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Quaker Oats Company. The opinions and text are all mine. Official Sweepstakes Rules.