Today’s workout was scheduled for an hour later than we usually meet, and I’m super excited about it. The extra hour of sleep feels like a luxury, and when I wake up my biceps feel super sore from yesterday’s workout. Nothing major, but it’s noticeable. I eat my breakfast and make my way to the train and I’m on my way.

Today was also a major endorphin high for some reason, and I’m certainly not complaining about it. Working out is all about that boost.

Today was about working on the lats, and again focusing on a mind-body connection to really zone in and focus on what my body is actually doing. I do seated rows all the time, and while I always thought I was doing them pretty well, I guess I never noticed how much more intense I could make the exercise.

I’ve worked out with friends before and they sort of slam through the exercises, as if “just doing them” is all that matters. I used to sort of be like that, too, but what I’ve really been zeroing in on is learning to feel everything that my body is doing.

Slow it down. Take it easy. And really focus. At first it takes more effort, more concentration and focus — things you don’t necessarily want to do when your body hurts and you’re tired. But power through, and bit by bit you start to make those movements naturally, on your own, without thinking about it.

And that’s a great feeling.

We did forward rows, which were a bit awkward. But the exercise itself was actually one of the ones I loved to hate, as I could definitely feel things working, and it was a rewarding exercise. It’s something like sitting on your knees on a backwards chair, but leaned forward a little bit, chest pressed against a matt. Then while straddling the contraption you have to lean forward and pull up/row.

I felt like I was putting on a major balancing act and felt a bit ridiculous, but yeah, it was definitely working. What up, hope someone’s enjoying this show, #callme.

Photo courtesy Kristin Booker for Giafrese