Fell Off The Wagon, A Little

    Fell off the wagon a bit today. I've been cutting back on carbs and upping my protein the last few weeks, trying to shake off my typical autumn Eat-Carbs-and-Sleep Hibernation mode. Today I am blaming post-Election duress. Yes, carbs make me happy. No-carbs makes me sad. It is a simple concept. It used to be cravings for mellowcreme pumpkins, York Peppermint Patties, and Butterfingers. Cravings that were almost irresistible. My nervous breakdown, nearly 5 years ago, was accompanied by an inability to stomach most foods. The only foods that didn't make me nauseous were oranges, and whey protein in warm milk, It was a great way to beat my sugar addiction. Now, my typical autumn cravings are basic carbs. Yes, healthy carbs, but more than I should be consuming except during heavy endurance training.
    Since I am in a build phase I know to lower my carbs and increase my protein. Which is exactly what has been going on the last few weeks. I have to say, being vegetarian, even most of my protein sources have a carbs, so going low-carb is almost impossible. Besides, like I said, carbs make me happy, low-carb makes me sad. Today I binged with sharp cheddar on fresh homemade, whole grain, gluten free bread. Not exactly a feeding frenzy, and still healthy for high carb.
    I mentioned a build period. I have increased my weight and strength workouts. I am on a three day rotation, mostly; legs, core, upper body. I used to go with a two day rotation, but I am giving myself an extra day of recovery between training sessions. I am also alternating heavy weight/lower rep, with lighter weight/higher rep. I'm also doing the 30 Day Squat Challenge: 3 days on, one day off, increasing reps by 5 each day. I am on day 8.
    Along with increased strength training, I am back in the pool religiously. The pool was closed for several weeks in October, really cutting into my swim routine. I feel like I am starting over with my swim endurance. No, not quite starting from ground zero, but I can definitely feel it. I did a great HIIT swim on Monday, and will be sure to have at least one HIIT, one Long Swim, and one Strength swim per week. Time to get back on a regular training program so I can be ready for the Bridge Swim in July.
    In the pool, after my swim, I am continuing with the physical therapy type leg workout in the water. Which includes side steps, high knees, butt kicks, side leg lifts, leg circles forward and back, and explosive jumps. It is a solid 30 minute workout, and I think it is vital for knee and hip strength for running. I am really hoping to get back to trail running sooner rather than later.
    I upped my bike time while the pool was closed, and am having a rest week right now. Having a cold a few weeks ago did put a damper on all cardio, my lungs were aching. I also discovered just how much sinus pressure can increase in the down facing position of aero bars. HIIT sessions will be back in the agenda soon enough. It is the best way to increase fitness without having to add hours and hours of training.
    So, back to carbs. I do love my carbs, but am feeling a twinge of guilt for overdoing it today. On the other hand, I have been training hard, so really, no damage done. Besides, tomorrow is a new day.