Perfect August, Day Six Recap: "Weights Are Heavy!"

Perfect August rolled on through Tuesday. I had an amazing day and I'm starting to really appreciate the ripple effects of eating healthier over several days in a row.

First, the checklist.

• Workout per training plan? Check.
• Healthy eating? Check.
• Tracked calories? Check.
• Sixty-Four ounces of water? Check.
• No Diet Coke? Check.
• No caffeine after 2pm? Check.
• Blogged? Check.
• Full night's sleep? Check.

Let's talk about the workout. It was an off-day for running, so I planned something special. For the first time in months... and months... and months... I returned to strength training. It's something I don't really enjoy, but the results are worth it.

I started out with a one mile, ten minute pace run on the treadmill to warm up. Yes, I know it's technically a non-running day. But a quick warm-up mile can't hurt. After that, I hit the weight room for an upper-body, core-strengthening circuit. My weights were lighter than when I last did this, but I decided it was better to build back up rather than go too heavy, too soon.

The workout felt good. There really is something primal about pushing your body to work harder than you thought you could. I'm no muscle strongman, but I also wasn't worried about comparing my workout to anyone else's. I felt good, the weights felt right, and I walked away proud of the workout. What else can I hope for? I finished with another mile on the treadmill, too, because I'm awesome like that.

And here's the obligatory selfie, post workout. Sure, I know what you're thinking. "That guy's a total Autumn. Why is he dressed like a Spring?" What can I say? I'm bucking the trend and wearing light blue. I can't wear green and tan all the time, you know.

I know I've said this already, but I am really am enjoying this Perfect August. It's influencing me all day long, as I take a moment to evaluate calories and portions instead of just tasting, biting, and snacking automatically.

No, I will not be perfect for the rest of my life. But this isn't about forever. It's about right now and reminding myself that I do have willpower, I am in control, and I can make the right choices.

Here's to more great days ahead!