I'm becoming more and more interested (and will probably start soon) with lifting weights and sticking to a "weight lifting schedule" — much like I stick to my running schedule… the past week anyway! lol.
I'm beginning to read more articles and am told by a number of acquaintances that building muscle is the way to actually lose the fat I've more or less accumulated over those years when I had minimal exercise. Don't worry, I don't plan to look like those East German female athletes in "Top Secret!" (if you have no clue what I'm talking about, rent the DVD! It's hilarious! Nick! Neeeeeeek!) Anyway, I digress. What I'm trying to say is, I don't want to bulk up but simply become leaner…
Here's this one article that has a fairly simple equation:
MORE MUSCLE = INCREASE METABOLISM = MORE CALORIES BURNED = INCREASE FOOD INTAKE = LESS BODYFAT
Anyway, I'll definitely maintain my cardio workouts (e.g., running!) but my main goal is to be able to: 1) Run a marathon under 5 hours; 2) lose a couple inches off my waist; 3) Do a sprint triathlon (or full triathlon). Just these three "simple" things, though not at the same time! lolz.
My friend is training for her first Ironman (or has completed it? Bridget?) and I know a couple of ladies who have completed Ironman competitions. While I'm not in that category yet, I'd like to keep the option of competing in the Ironman open. I know I won't be placing anywhere in the top 1000 (rank), but the fact that I did one sounds kickass!
So yah. First step… Do some sets with these 5-pound weights. ^_^