šŸ‘‘ Do you need a rest day?

Plus: My Trader Joe's haul

Whatā€™s up, Hustlers! 

The problem isnā€™t that the work is hardā€¦ the problem is that you want it to be easy.

The truth? Growth isnā€™t found in the easy momentsā€”itā€™s built through the obstacles you overcome, the sweat you pour, and the resilience you develop.

Discomfort is a sign youā€™re growing. Recognize it and keep moving forward.

Xx Robin

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 .WHAT Iā€™M FOCUSING ON. 

Embracing Rest Days šŸ§˜ If you're struggling to hold paces, feeling wiped after workouts, or noticing a drop in your training and wellness data, it might be time to build in more rest. The same goes if youā€™re coming back from illness or injury, traveling frequently, or running on broken sleep (I see you, new parents!).

Taking a true rest day isnā€™t always easyā€”itā€™s hard for me too. But recently, I fully committed to one, and my speed work that week was FAST. That was the proof I needed: my body and nervous system thrive when I take a full rest day every 10-12 days. Itā€™s not the conventional once-a-week formula, but I know my body can handle volumeā€”and Iā€™ve learned to trust what it needs.

So think about this:

šŸ”‘ Training stimulus + rest = adaptation.

On days when I want to move but know I should take it easy, I lean into: sauna, mobility, a long walk, acupuncture, ice bath, hyperbaric chamber, or diving into a new book or audiobook.

Rest isnā€™t a setbackā€”slowing down is a strength. šŸ’Ŗ 

 .WHAT Iā€™M SHARING. 

My Trader Joeā€™s Haul  šŸ›’ Meal prep helps keep me fueled and ready for the busy week of work and mom life, so I keep my kitchen stocked with staples that make it easier to stay on track. While I love grabbing fun finds at Trader Joeā€™s, these are my weekly essentials:

  • āœ… Quick & easy protein: beef-less ground beef (great with spaghetti squash), frozen edamame (fun fact: frozen veggies often pack more nutrients!), tofu (I usually cube and air fry for ~15 mins)

  • āœ… Carb sources & fiber: potatoes (all varieties), frozen rice, lentil spaghetti, pizza dough (great for making a fun dinner with the kids).

  • āœ… Snacks & flavor boosters: dates (for homemade Snickers!), olive tapenade, mushrooms (I love adding TajĆ­n to jicamaā€”try it!), baby peppers, and ALL the good spices (just tried the Aglio Olioā€¦šŸ”„)

What are your Trader Joeā€™s must-haves? Let me know!

@robinarzon

Replying to @Karyn this is your sign to save this and make a meal prep plan for next week!! #vegan #foodtiktok #holiday

 .WHAT Iā€™M LOVING. 

Valentineā€™s Day Treats šŸ’— Looking for a little inspo to treat your friends, loved onesā€”or yourself? These are my current faves. ā¬‡ļø 

  • šŸ”„ Baked by Melissa x Tabasco Cupcakes: This collab is unexpected in the best way. Sweet and spicy? Yes please.

  • šŸø Kin Euphorics Matchatini ā€“ OBSESSED with this one. The perfect non-alcoholic sip for a cozy night in or a pre-dinner vibe.

  • šŸŒ¹ Roses del Fuego ā€“ Stunning roses straight from Ecuador. Classic and bold.

  • šŸ•Æļø Taja Collection Candles ā€“ Luxe, personalized candles that smell amazing. Love the Valentineā€™s Day collection!

  • šŸ›Œ Cozy Earth PJs ā€“ The softest pajamas ever. Perfect for lounging, gifting, or treating yourself.

What are you loving for Valentineā€™s Day this year?

Tomorrow on The View! ā˜€ļø In need of a wellness refresh? Tune into The View tomorrow at 11am ESTā€”Iā€™ll be joining to share my favorite wellness-focused steals and deals. The discounts? BIG. šŸ‘€ Donā€™t miss it!

HYROX Vegas šŸ’Ŗ Second solo in the books! Did that. So proud! I didnā€™t beat my last time, but I was faster on my runs and stayed more consistent and mentally strong. Now I know where to tighten up on the row and rope pull. You race. You learn. You keep getting better.

Shoutout to Drew for being my photographer and the ultimate hype man!

Question: What are the best ways to incorporate a weighted vest? Do you have a recommendation for a starting weight range or percentage of body weight?

- Lexi

Answer: It really depends on your fitness level, but start gradually! Begin with walks, and once you can control the eccentric phase of your steps, incorporate it into your runs.

Your starting weight will vary based on your fitness level. I personally started with a 12lb weight vest. Like any weight tool, start moderate and work your way up as you build strength and control.

Make sure you're already consistently moving, strength training, and getting your steps in before adding a new tool.

ā€” Robin

Got a question for me? Reply to this email and let me know whatā€™s on your mind.

Thanks for reading, Hustlers. Go out there, pivot with power, and stay curious about whatā€™s next.

Xx Robin ArzĆ³n

Got feedback? Hit reply and tell me what you thinkā€¦Iā€™m always looking to level up.