Yep…I really thought all my running meant I was in better shape than I am. I went with my friend to try Body Pump and Yoga at the local YMCA this past Monday, and I am STILL SORE. I foolishly thought that running (and watching my legs lean-up) meant they were strong and in shape…try some squats, my friends. 
I really enjoyed the Body Pump class though – it was 60 minutes long and it broke up all the different muscle groups and exercises so it wasn’t as boring and monotonous as lifting weights can sometimes seem. Even though I enjoyed the class, I spent the majority of class internally cursing myself for letting myself get so out of shape. Before Dan and I got married, we started seeing a personal trainer (Jose was the BEST) and with his help, we both lost weight and gained strength. It’s really tough remembering how much I used to be able to do and how little I’m currently able to do. Oh well, I went and moved my body and that’s what mattered.
So, after KILLING myself at Body Pump, we headed to Yoga which turned out to be a really stupid idea. My muscles were done – fatigued to the point I had to grasp the handrail when walking downstairs because my legs felt like jelly. Luckily, the yoga class happened to be led by the NICEST instructor EVER. As we were trying poses, my muscles were shaking so badly that I couldn’t do anything. I decided about halfway through class that I would just use this as stretching and meditating, and that’s essentially what I did. Our lovely instructor kept saying “everyone is doing their best – this isn’t a place for judgment” – I must have looked a mess! So, I know I would love attending this again in the future, but preferably NOT after Body Pump.
I am writing all of this on Thursday and I still can’t lift my arms properly. The runs I’ve gone on the past couple days have helped loosen up the legs, but boy my muscles are enjoying reminding me that they exist and need some attention! I’m a little concerned that the heavy leg work might not be the best idea with training for a half, since I felt quite pokey as the legs just weren’t cooperating. Anyone else run into this issue?
Completely off-topic, but I finally tried the new Starbucks Hazelnut Macchiato Latte, and I’m a fan:
Sbux = Yummy!
Happy Thursday, everyone!
Since I didn’t get to fully enjoy the yoga at the Y, does anyone have a DVD or studio in the Minneapolis area they recommend?
running&singinginthepark 
I think you just need to find a balance with your strength work and the running. I have a trainer and when he found out I run halfs he incorporated leg workouts to help strengthen my legs (squats have become the “easy” part of my workout, ugh!). He also works on my core and arms since these muscles are also heavily used in long runs. Point of my rant? Leg work will help, you just can’t over do it. I thought I was under prepared for the W&D last year since I had done less running than training for the Princess, but I honestly felt better running the W&D and I think it has to do with the all around workouts from the trainer. Sorry for such a long comment!
Don’t apologize – I appreciate the feedback! It’s good to hear that the strength training is helping you. I think I know deep down that it’s beneficial, but this week killed me. I like your idea of the leg work without over-doing it! And, I’m glad to hear that you think it helped you prep for W&D – are you running it this year?
I haven’t officially registered for the W&D…yet. I have an entire blog entry over my torture over the decision lol. I will most likely end up registering for it…hopefully…fingers crossed.
Good luck with the workouts! I’m sure you know it’s always tough in the beginning, but it’s worth it 🙂
This is exactly what happened to me my first time at Body Pump! I thought I was in shape… not at all! sore for days as well, it gets easier the more you go
Thanks!! This is good to know because I really liked the idea of the class!
The first time I went was back in October, I really have to work to get sore now! I’m addicted to Body Pump
Haha I have the same regimen every Sunday – Body Works (at LA Fitness) followed by Yoga – I actually appreciate the yoga, as tough as it is, I feel so relaxed afterwards. Started trying it out to help me with some knee pain I have been having from running.
And apparently we share the same love of coffee and Disney too. I think you are my doppelganger.
Love it!! Well, doppelganger, I kind of feel now that if you can do the classes back to back, I can, too! 🙂 Has the Yoga helped with the knee pain?