Monday, June 13, 2016

How Going Vegan Has Changed My Fitness + My Favorite Exercises


Since going vegan, I've noticed an incredible shift in how I feel, especially during exercise.  I used to dread workouts, I couldn't run more than a mile or so without needing a walking break, and I was never motivated to do a spontaneous workout.  But since transitioning to a vegan lifestyle, I've seen a few major results in my fitness.

I can run now!  I mean, I could 'run' before, but it's now an actual enjoyable experience.  Before my first run after my vegan transition, I planned out designated walking breaks throughout the run, and I was shocked when I didn't need any of them.  That was the first time I'd finished a run without stopping, and I felt great!  Less tired, less short of breath, and like I could keep on going if I wanted to.  

I've also felt so much more motivated- I don't think I ever used to randomly go out for a jog because I felt like it.  Now I'm having fun exploring the hiking trails near my home and more often than not, I feel up to some activity.  

Some of my favorite workouts are:

Running-  This is a newfound love!  I honestly used to complain that I hated running, but it's fun for me now!  I love the rush of endorphins afterwards, and my new stamina has really been a huge factor in my new hobby.

Dance-  I'm a horrible dancer.  But my favorite stress release is locking myself in a room, putting on some great music (currently that's Lemonade), and dancing like no one is watching, because no one is watching.  And make sure it's a room without mirrors, because I've caught a glimpse of myself dancing in the mirror and it kind of kills the mood.  

Pilates-  Every day, without fail, I will do my pilates circuit and my long (usually 4 mins) plank.  It's great to keep a strong core, and all you need is a floor- no exercise clothes needed.  I do this in my pajamas before bed sometimes.

Yoga-  I used to do yoga daily, and to be honest, I've fallen out of that routine.  Now I just do a few poses before bed to help me relax and relieve some tension. 

Hope this post was helpful!

19 comments:

  1. So glad your new diet has made you have so much energy! That is truly amazing and I wish I had that much discipline!

    <3 Shannon
    Upbeat Soles

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    1. Thank you Shannon! It's actually incredibly easy to be vegan- no willpower required for me!

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  2. That is awesome that you are able to get the energy you want! I used to run a lot and it is a very addictive activity (in a good way) that it got me to run half marathons and marathons.

    www.rdsobsessions.com

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    1. I'm currently training for a 10k, and I'm hoping I can run half marathons and marathons in the future!

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  3. haha I loved what you said about dancing, I do that too and it's so true that when you look in the mirror or see yourself in the mirror it's such a mood killer. I always think I look so much better dancing than I do.

    www.thesundaymode.blogspot.com.au

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  4. Sounds like you have seen awesome changes. I don't enjoy running much myself, but it's nice to break a sweat.

    Amy Ann
    Straight A Style

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    1. Thanks for reading, Amy Ann! I believe that getting active in any way that works for you is awesome!

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  5. I love your list of favorite workouts! I honestly despise running but am trying to get motivated to start the Couch to 5K app. I also love to dance and will randomly break out at home with my son - so much fun! I used to take pilates classes and loved them, I definitely need to get back into that routine! I also do yoga three times a week and have seen such a difference in my body. It's not only a stress reliever, but it helps any aches I may have. Great post!

    Allison / Joy and Ivy
    www.joyandivy.com

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    1. Thank you Allison! Yoga is so great for stress, and I always feel so refreshed after few flows!

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  6. I really want to take up a yoga + pilates regime! I love hearing about your workout faves, lady. :)

    -Ashley
    Le Stylo Rouge

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    1. Thank you Ashley! Yoga and pilates together are so great for stretching and toning muscles up!

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  7. I adore your healthy lifestyle, Julia! I am an avid runner too! It helps me to stay focus and it gives me much needed energy throughout the day! Great post, my love!
    xoxo, Vanessa
    www.WhatWouldVWear.com

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    1. Thank you Vanessa! It's so funny how after running, we can feel MORE energized! It's all in the endorphins, I suppose!

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  8. I've always had a hard time with running, I'm wondering now if it has to do with my diet!

    Heidi || Wishes & Reality

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    1. I think diet plays a huge part in health! All of the cells in the body run on glucose, which is most easily obtained from carbohydrates. There's a huge stigma against carbs in our society, and that's so wrong. When you eat a plant-based diet, you're getting that nourishment without the inhibition of toxic meat, dairy, and eggs!

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  9. That's so awesome that going vegan has had such a big impact! I have been vegetarian for close to 2 months now and I think I'm finally ready to take the plunge and go totally vegan!

    www.rosyoutlookblog.com

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    1. That's wonderful!!! If you need any tips or want to talk, please email me and I'd love to chat! You are doing something so amazing for the animals, the planet, and your health!

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  10. Let´s exercise! ;)
    xx
    Mónica Sors
    MES VOYAGES À PARIS
    NEW POST: ROMPER + OLLIE BAG IN MARRAKECH

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