Hustle. Rest. Repeat.

In a world that encourages you to "just do it" - with no excuses, while going hard, after hustling (and before grinding), a rest day can feel like giving up. Years ago, I supported the notion of working out seven days a week.  I was convinced that every workout had to be as difficult, if not more so, than the previous.  Over time, physical stress accumulated and the outcome was a herniated disc. Since then, I have found balance at the gym and in life.  Some days I feel my strongest after completing a couple of pull-ups.  Other days, all I need is a set of dumbbells, my XBAR and some warm weather to feel on top of the world after completing a backyard bootcamp. 

When you avoid listening to your body, your body will speak up.  Usually, in ways that stop you in your tracks--literally and figuratively.  The following are examples of what can happen when you over train and under restore.

• Injury
• Adrenal fatigue
• Depression
• Low energy
• Excessive weight loss or weight gain
• Mental fog
• Elevated resting heart rate
• Loss of energy
• Muscle aches and pains that do not go away

If you're running your body like you run a business, ask yourself "what's my bottom line?"  Is the risk of working 24/7, 365 days a year worth the reward?  What are you gaining by pulling all nighters and pushing deadlines? 

The Fuel Your Fitness Method embraces activity, nutrition and restoration.  Dedicate at least one day per week to restoration.  This might mean staying in bed until 11am.  Or taking a yoga class.  Restoration is meant to calm the body and calm the mind.  Avoid doing anything that requires a great deal of energy.

• Visit your library.
• Schedule a manicure or massage.
• Call a friend.
• Send a hand written note.
• Stretch.  Follow along with a Fitness Blender yoga routine or find some ideas on my Pinterest Restoration Board. 

Over time you will discover the balance between pushing yourself and knowing when to back off.  Embracing restoration will improve your self awareness and your ability to listen to your body. The next time you think about going hard...ask yourself if what you really need is to go home. 


Feedback? Suggestions? Comment below. I'd love to know your favorite way to restore.  For more information about online and in-person training programs, click here.

Fitness Your Fitness Method: Training & Accountability Programs

The Fuel Your Fitness Method emphasizes Activity, Nutrition and Restoration.  We place the emphasis on progression, not perfection.  In a world that overwhelms us with diet plans, new workout routines and the latest "stress-busting, abs-lusting" claims, the #FYFmethod will help you silence the distractions and focus on mindfulness, self awareness and support to reach your goals.

Fuel Your Fitness Personal Training
This includes an initial fitness assessment and customized workouts based on your current fitness level and goals.  I am available for in-home sessions and studio sessions throughout the Auburn, AL area.  Please contact me at Megan.Linge@gmail.com for rates and additional information.

Fuel Your Fitness 8 Week Online Coaching - $150
This includes an initial fitness assessment an eight week program based on your current fitness level and goals. The initial assessment includes:

• Customized fitness program you can do at home
• Instructions for recording circumference measurements 
• Instructions for capturing "before" photos
• General fitness assessments (pushups and curl ups)
• Weekly checkins via email, phone call or FaceTime
• Access to private FYF Facebook group

XBAR Fitness System Add-On - $135
Add on the XBAR Fitness System and your program will include workouts using this portable, challenging and unique piece of fitness equipment.  Save 10% on your XBAR with code MEGANLINGE.

Fuel Your Fitness 8 Week Online Accountability Program - $250
Available as a stand alone program, or in conjunction with on site or online sessions! The accountability program is a great option if you are doing your own workouts and would like the communication with and accountability to a Certified Personal Trainer.  It also ensures success throughout on site or online sessions.  The program includes:

• Weekly nutrition evaluations via My Fitness Pal (I am not a dietitian and cannot provide meal plans.  However, I will give insight and make suggestions based on your current habits and goals)                                                                           
• Weekly weigh-ins
• Weekly phone calls or FaceTime lasting 10-20 minutes
• Bi-weekly photos
• Daily emails 
• Text messages, approximately 3-5/week
• Access to private FYF Facebook group

Please contact me at Megan.Linge@gmail.com for rates and additional information.  I am also available for group training and worksite wellness programs.

Megan’s fitness journey began when she was in high school, overweight and inactive.  After joining her first gym in 1997 and making changes to her lifestyle, the extra weight dropped and her commitment to health and wellness continued to grow.  During her time at Illinois State University, Megan worked at the Student Recreation Building and became an AFAA Group Exercise Instructor certified.  Upon graduating with two degrees (Commercial Recreation and Program Management) along with an Exercise Science minor, Megan continued to work in the fitness industry.  Megan's recent accomplishments include being featured as a Rising Star in the August 2014 issue of Oxygen Magazine.  

Her experiences range from commercial to corporate to governmental fitness programming.  Megan has experienced first hand the cycle of poor food choices and not enough activity.  She enjoys helping others identify and exceed their own goals. When working with clients and participants, Megan’s approach features bodyweight movements and plyometrics, while incorporating free weights and resistance equipment. She has worked with athletes, beginners, prenatal clients, and more.