July was jam packed for me, but I’m narrowing down my favorites list to just a few things that stood out this past month.
So let’s jump right in.
Orangetheory
I finally tried my first Orangetheory class and am excited to share my review.
What to expect
First off, Orangetheory asks that you arrive half hour early to class to go over how it works. Why could they possibly need me there half hour early? Well they go over a lot of information, like how the heart rate monitor works (which they let you borrow for your first class), what the different zones are that you will be in during class, what your fitness goals are, what their pricing plans are, and a few other logistical things.
Next, they get the class all pumped up beforehand and introduce the newbies (yup).
The class I took was divided into 3 working stations: treadmill + row machines + weights. So basically cardio 2/3 of the time and strength 1/3 of the time. But no class is the same and each instructor does things differently. And if you are not a runner, you can choose the bike or elliptical instead.
The zones
They start you off in the blue zone which is your warm up and then you work your way up to the green, orange and red zones. Ideally you want to be in the orange zone most of the time, which is 84-91% of your max heart rate and where you achieve “EPOC” (excess post-exercise oxygen consumption) which allows you to burn calories AFTER your workout. The goal is to accumulate 12 minutes or more in this zone in order to allow your body to burn calories up to 36 hours after your workout–crazy right? You’ll want to come back to your green zone aka “base pace” in between the orange to help build endurance and burn fat and carbs evenly. Occasionally you’ll enter the red zone which is greater than 91% of your workout effort. This is the “all-out” zone. You don’t want to be in this for long or you may over exert yourself.
Overall
I really enjoyed my first class, especially since there was a lot of running involved. but of course, if you don’t like to run or can’t then the bike/elliptical is a great option. I was in the red zone a little too much which I think I naturally get there after all the Barry’s classes I’ve done (i.e. lots of sprinting). Which makes me realize that maybe I’m over doing it at Barry’s classes and having a heart rate monitor isn’t a bad idea when working out. Making me realize that Orangetheory really is a smarter way to workout, by working out smarter and not harder. Needless to say, I was definitely sore the next couple of days and am considering signing up for their 8 classes/month package as I really enjoyed the class and found it challenging and their prices are not outrageous similar to a Barry’s, Flywheel, or SoulCycle.
Things to note:
First class is free at your neighborhood studio
Make sure you bring your own towel and water, they don’t provide those.
Try and stay in the orange zone most of the time, that’s how you get the most points.
Don’t forget your car keys when you leave, they need collateral for the heart rate monitor they let you borrow.
The heart rate monitor is something you would have to purchase if you become a member and it’s not cheap ($99-$150).
Kennebunkport, Maine
Matt and I finally got away for a couple of nights for vacation. The first vacation we took since we bought the house. We went to Kennebunkport, Maine for two nights and had such a great time. It took us only 2 hours from Metrowest Boston to get their with no traffic (beats Cape traffic for sure). Granted we left on a Monday, but it was such a breeze to get up there.
The views
One of my favorite things about Maine are the coastal views. Kennebunkport probably has the best coastal views I’ve seen in Maine. The town itself is pretty small but there’s a road–Ocean Ave, that is surrounded by water and absolutely breathtaking. Matt and I went for a long walk along it one morning and I also ran alongside on my own–there are so many runners and walkers taking in the beautiful views.
Favorite dinner spot
My second favorite thing was the food, naturally. My favorite spot we ate at for dinner was 95 Ocean at the Nonantum Resort. They have locally sourced options on the menu and the freshest seafood. I got the halibut and Matt got the scallops.
And we decided to not go to The Clam Shack, (lines were way too long) and went to Mables Lobster Claw instead. The Lobster Rolls did not disappoint.
B&B
We stayed at a B&B, The Edgewater Inn, close to the beach and I was very charming and clean. It was a more affordable option to the Colony, and just as close to Ocean Drive. The best part, they have an outstanding 3 course brunch included with your stay that I highly recommend. It’s open to the public, and is a must try even if you are not staying there. It was a little too heavy for us to start our day with but I couldn’t pass up a free 3 course brunch with complimentary chef tastings.
Everything Blueberry!
I’ve been obsessing over blueberry everything and since blueberry season is in full effect, I’ve been coming up with some new recipes to use those leftover blueberries like these new favorite muffins: Bakery Style Blueberry Oat Muffins and this Blueberry Chia Jam:
Homemade Blueberry Chia Jam Recipe
- 2 cups of fresh or frozen blueberries
- 2 tablespoons of chia seeds
- Honey to taste
- Heat blueberries on the stove in a small pot on medium to high heat,
- Once blueberries start to bubble, stir and start to mash with a potato masher or heavy spoon until jam like consistency is achieved
- Add in chia seeds and stir on low for a minute then remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes
Enjoy with your favorite toast or store in the fridge in an airtight container for later (up to 7 days)
Homemade Walnut Milk
This walnut milk has been on repeat. If you haven’t tried making your own homemade milk, I highly recommend it. It’s so easy so long as you have a high speed blender and Ellies Best Nut Milk Bag (10% off with code fitgreengal)
I use it in smoothies, to make my morning matcha lattes, and with cereal. The best part, it doesn’t have any added fillers or gums like traditional store-bought milks which can be hard to digest. Catch the recipe in my highlights on Instagram or grab it here: Homemade Walnut Milk Recipe
What were some of your favorites from July?!
Xoxo
Marisa
