Everyday Pursuits

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Workin' on my Fitness

It's literally been over a year since I've written a post about fitness. Why? I've been putting it off for months saying to myself "I need to be in my BEST shape ever to shoot a fitness post" .... then life (and wine/carbs) happened and last week I finally said "eff it, we're shooting something!" 

Am I in my best shape right now? No. Have I been traveling for 10 weeks straight, exploring the world, making amazing memories, and working out when I can? Yes. It's all about balance and sometimes a glass of wine in Italy is > than getting my sweat on. 

That being said, now that I'm home for the next 2.5 weeks, I'm focused on getting back on track with my workouts and maybe cutting down on the wine time. Keyword: maybe. If you follow me on Snapchat (@pursuitofshoes) then you know that I swear by The Studio MDR. Earlier this year I shared my obsession with the Glitter Guide, too. Studio MDR and I have been going strong for almost a year and a half and no matter what, they're my go-to when workin' on my fitness. True story: when I was going 3 times a week, I was legit in my best shape ever! Read more below about why I love MDR, how I think being perfect is boring, PLUS deets on how to get 30% off my entire workout look: 

the studio mdr, pilates workout, where to pilates in LA, pursuit of shoes fitness
the studio mdr, pilates workout, where to pilates in LA, pursuit of shoes fitness

The "method" aka The Lagree Fitness workout, is a total-body program that melds together elements of Pilates, cardio training and weight-bearing activity. For me, this combination works perfectly for my body type.

 I'm pretty petite, 5'3" 103 lbs., and have been blessed with an awesome metabolism. That being said, I've also ALWAYS been a very active person. ie: 10 years of swim team and 18 years of dance. In HS, I was the girl that started looking really "skinny" when I didn't work out, so building muscle strength and toning has always been a priority for me. Now that I'm 30, I still get that "skinny" look in my legs and arms (ie: lack of muscle) when I go weeks without working out but magically my face now looks heavy and I get a little extra cushion in my tummy and booty. #thisis30 

I can honestly say that I've never had a better full body workout than at The Studio MDR. It's perfectly worded on their site:

  The workout is done on Megaformers, which provide constant resistance and infinitely more exercise options than a traditional reformer.  The machine allows the body to shift quickly and smoothly from one exercise to another while increasing the heart rate and getting the blood pumping. The Megaformer attacks each and every muscle in a concentrated and focused manner to sculpt strong, powerful and lean bodies in a safe and measured way.

the studio mdr, pilates workout, where to pilates in LA, pursuit of shoes fitness
the studio mdr, pilates workout, where to pilates in LA, pursuit of shoes fitness
the studio mdr, pilates workout, where to pilates in LA, pursuit of shoes fitness
the studio mdr, pilates workout, where to pilates in LA, pursuit of shoes fitness

When I was going consistently, I could feel my body changing in so many ways especially my abs and overall strength. There is a move called the teaser that hits your obliques so hard and tightens them like I've never experienced before; I call it the instant waist trainer. 

The best part is when you get a group of guys that come in thinking they're super tough because they just got "insane chest yesterday, bro" and then they can barely get through class using their own body weight and resistance! It's a hilarious and always makes me feel really good about myself. #sorrynotsorry 

the studio mdr, pilates workout, where to pilates in LA, pursuit of shoes fitness
{ lucy activewear studio hatha sports bra c/o // lucy activewear revolutionary run tight c/o / / lucy activewear hatha terry zip-up c/o}

Anywho, the point of today's post wasn't just about sharing how awesome The Studio MDR is, but:

1) How amazing it is to find a workout that I truly love that motivates me to get in and make something happen. Believe me, if there was a MDR in every city I recently traveled in ( Lisa we need to make that happen!), I would legit be in the best shape of my life. I imagine it's kind of how some of my friends feel about Class Pass and the option to try tons of different workouts that never get old. Whatever you have to do, find a workout program/class that you truly enjoy because it makes it that much easier to put the time and effort into being healthy! 

2) It's okay to take breaks. It's okay to not be at your "goal" weight. It's okay to take a picture in a sports bra without having a 6 pack. It's okay to have wine and pizza tonight. It's all about balance and every year I get older I realize this more and more. Being "perfect" is exhausting and boring! 

Everything I'm wearing is Lucy Activewear which they so graciously gifted me! They are having a 2-day Anniversary sale from 10.22-10.23 and EVERYTHING will be 30% off. YASS! Sharing another fitness look from them tomorrow. Stay tuned!