I Run to Eat: How I maintain a healthy lifestyle as a dessert blogger

I’ve always had a sweet tooth. So when I decided to start this blog, the primary challenge for me was (and still is) how to effectively document and share my dessert adventures with all of you. 

Growing up, I was a NARP (non athletic regular person). I would even go as far as to say I was a couch potato. In middle and high school, I avoided gym class at all costs. It was no surprise that I was always picked last for team sports in gym. However, I must admit I was great at dodge ball and steal the chicken (if I do say so myself). During my senior year of high school, I found myself in danger of not graduating on time. Because, even with a 3.9 G.P.A., I had not fulfilled the state issued physical education requirements. I was taking college courses at that time, and had to rush from the Manhattan campus to my school in Brooklyn to take two gym classes, one with 6th graders and the other with 8th graders. It was not the highlight of my then academic career, but I graduated on time.

It was move in day, my freshman year of college when one of my three roommates asked, “What sports do you play?” It was a small “suite”, (two rooms) equipped with four desks in one room, two bunk beds in the other, and one, I repeat ONE closet. In addition to all of our other essentials our cozy room was equipped with soccer, lacrosse, ice hockey and ski gear. None of that athletic gear belonged to me. I did however come equipped with Oreos, granola bars, fruit snacks, popcorn and a gallon of gold fish. I said I didn’t play any sport, to which she replied, “Well you have to do something to offset all of those snacks”. With the exception of getting fitted for my prom dress, that was first time I seriously began to assess my weight, my eating habits, and how my lack of activity could have negative effects on my weight and health in the future. Although I was always on the slimmer side, I couldn’t complete a run around a track without being on the verge of falling out. I decided to make a change.  

I took a Zumba class with my roommates, and some other girls in my dorm. I learned to ski (I went to school in Maine), joined a fencing club (which was short-lived because I realized sword fighting hurts) and was determined to learn how to ride a bike; something I’d been wanting since I was 5. I remember walking back to our freshman year dorm after our first Zumba class. The plan was to shower, get ready to eat, and go to dinner. I think it hit us all at the same time that there were about 8 of us girls, but only two showers; because we began sprinting across the lawn to the dorm with hopes of being one of the first in the shower. I was not in the top three to make it make to Smith (the only all freshman dorm on campus). I also was not in the top five to arrive, but I was determined to keep going, until I reached my fitness goals. To this day, my goal in this journey is to keep going and growing. 

So here’s some tips on how I’ve been staying in shape while chasing dessert. Hope it helps!

1. Start now!

Yep, now... I am a planner and like to make schedules for everything. In fact, the first thing on my schedule is… you guessed it, to make my schedule. While this is good in some regard, it has also contributed to my procrastination. Don’t get too caught up stressing about the gym membership, classes and how you’re going to make the time. Instead, evaluate your current routine and find out how you can take a few extra steps towards your fitness goal. For some, this may mean getting off the subway a stop or two earlier and walking. For others, it may be finding a fitness partner and encouraging (and challenging) each other to meet your fitness goals. There are so many ways to stay in shape from swimming, to playing communal sports, or even jumping on a trampoline. Find what works for you, and stick with it! 

For me, working out is easier when I am having fun. As I mentioned earlier, it was my freshman year of college when I learned how to ride a bike. Late bloomer, I know; but I was so excited. People literally clapped as I took my first solo strides in front of Smith. Since then, bike riding has been an essential part of my exercise routine. I love riding through Central Park, seeing the ducks in the pond and taking in the city views. I also take spinning classes twice a week, and enjoy trying new workouts in the city, such as indoor surfboarding and boot camp. I also love to run. Albeit, my strength is in short sprints rather than long distance runs. However, having a “running buddy” challenged me to set (realistic) goals and have accountability in reaching said goals.

2.  Healthy Eating

It is true; eating cupcakes is a hobby of mine. However, I recognize the importance of maintaining a healthy diet. Like exercising, I find it easier to eat healthy when I am enjoying the foods I am eating. Evaluate the foods you eat daily, and find ways to substitute unhealthy foods for healthier ones. Also don’t skip out on meals, and know that it is okay to snack. I pretty much eat all day. My breakfast, which is usually consists of either oatmeal or cheerios (in a to go container) is normally followed by a mid morning, or pre lunch snack. This can be anything from a piece of fruit, a granola bar or even dried fruit. For lunch, I’d bring a salad from home (spinach, carrots & raisins) is my favorite, or more frequently a whole-wheat turkey sandwich or a chicken avocado wrap. Sometimes I’ll step out for dessert during lunch. Or eat one of the snacks I have packed. Goldfish are an all time favorite of mine; so is a popcorn, pretzels and fruit snacks. I usually go to the gym in the evening, and am usually hungry afterwards. I typically have peanut butter in a mini container, which goes great with celery sticks or my favorite combo, carrots. It is also important for me to drink lots of water to replenish all of the fluids I lost by sweating. Which brings me to my next point…

3. Drink Water!

Think you’ve had enough water today? Drink some more! The health benefits to drinking water are endless. Personally, I have found that drinking water keeps me full for longer periods of time and promotes healthy digestion. I rarely consume sugary fluids. And I often consider juice drinks, and sodas to be a “treat” reserved for the weekends or other “special circumstances”. I have personally discovered that the high content of sugar found in these drinks (especially soda) tend to make me jittery, hence another reason for me to avoid them. Additionally, I have found that staying hydrated throughout the day provides me with more energy. There are two things I do to keep to ensure I am constantly drinking water. For one, I carry a water bottle everywhere I go. And secondly, I have an app on my phone that reminds me to drink water every 45 minutes. So drink up… trust me its worth the trips to the bathroom *wink LOL!

So here you have it. How I personally try to maintain a healthy lifestyle, while chasing down the desserts I love. I really hope this helps someone. Also, if you have any tips, please share in the comments. I look forward to hearing from many of you!