Every Wednesday, The Sweaty Guinea Pig will feature a fresh individual who will share his or her thoughts and experiences on fitness and healthy living.

Name: Deirdre Murphy
Age: 20
Location: Storrs, CT; Staten Island, NY
Occupation: Full Time Student

What is your current routine? How many days do you dedicate to exercising every week?
Currently I am on a hiatus from working out because I have had mono for a little over a month. But, I was doing 5-6 times a week of intense cardio training followed by some light weight training to tone and define. I would do 5 times of cardio and 3 times of weight training a week.

How did you come up with your current routine?
Reggie provides a weekly workout for me that is always awesome and keeps my interest. Also, when I go to the gym with my friends we push each other harder and I’m more incline to stay for an extra 10 or 15 minutes of cardio to keep up with them.

What are your short term (within 6 weeks) and long- term (3 months and beyond) goals?
My new short-term goal is to be toned and sleek, bathing suit time! Spring Break is March 8th, so I want to be ready for that! My Long-term goal is to have really well defined arms. I want to have muscles without being bulky. I was seeing nice definition before I got sick, so I want to get back to that point and then build off of that.

What are other types of training that you’d like to try?
I want to try Cardio-kick boxing. I did it a few summers ago when I was not into working out, but now that I am dedicated I know I would love it. Also, I try spinning classes every now and then, they are awesome - a nice change from just the treadmill.

What is your favorite post-workout meal?
I love peanut butter sandwiches! I usually reach for something high in fiber or protein. Since I’m usually fitting gym time in between classes, I usually grab a bar like a Pria or Fiber One bar to keep myself energized.

What is your ideal “cheat” meal or favorite guilty indulgence?
Anything desert! I love chocolate.

Any advice or words of encouragement for other Sweaty Guinea Pig readers?
Keep on going! It may be hard to get going, but once you do it you will feel soooo great!