I started this 90 day program on April 14th and have been consistently following the program. Well, that's a lie. I have been following the workouts the way she has it set out, but I have not been following the food plan she has provided. In all honesty, that's not something that I can realistically follow and I am doing my best to stay within my calories on MFP. I am still learning how to balance both and maybe that's my downfall.
Week one and two are the same with the workout schedule and it's been a really good schedule so far. It's very different from both 30 Day Shred and Ripped in 30 and I like that each day is different because I am less likely to get bored with the program. The following is how a week of strength training looks:
Monday- Workout 1
Tuesday- Workout 2
Wednesday- Cardio 1
Thursday- Workout 1
Friday- Workout 2
Saturday- Cardio 1
Sunday- Rest
The workouts last about 30 minutes and it's very easy to fit in during the day. The first week I was better about doing it first thing in the morning before I started work, but this week I've been waiting until either my lunch break or after work. The best part is that I have yet to have a day that I have not looked forward to getting the workout done. Normally when I start a workout program the excitement of it wears off pretty fast and I despise the pending workout, but this time around I have actually been anticipating the time I get to spend doing it.
I know that it's going to be getting more difficult next week, but I have enjoyed building the foundation these first two weeks and think that it's going to be exciting to watch my body change and my strength improve.
I made the mistake of taking my measurements after I had already started the first week and made a second mistake in taking measurements again before the second week was over. Since the same DVDs are used two weeks in a row I have decided to update my measurements every other Sunday. I was disappointed earlier this week when I saw that I was gaining inches in every single area, but I have to just accept what my changes are and realize that everything is happening for a reason. I'm making very positive changes to myself, both physically and mentally.
Body revolution start date: April 14th
First measurements taken April 19th
Chest- 39.25
Waist- 33.5
Hips- 43.5
L thigh- 23.5
L arm- 12.25
Measurements taken April 27th
Chest- 39.5 (+.25)
Waist- 34 (+.5)
Hips- 44 (+.5)
L thigh- 23.75 (+.25)
L arm- 12.75 (0)
I know what the problem is and I'm working on finding a solution. Unfortunately I am still using food to deal with stress and to celebrate exciting changes. My food choices are not reflecting what I want out of this. I am starting each day with good intentions and I go downhill quickly thereafter. I am also not completing the entire day with tracking either and that is huge for me if I want to see any sort of success.
My main problem with food is that I cannot cook well. I find that I get anxiety even thinking about being in the kitchen. I rely heavily on Patrick or on easy to make prepackaged foods. It's not a good situation and I know the only solution is to practice in order to be more comfortable to make healthier options for myself.
I'm hoping to see some improvements with my measurements after this next set of DVDs. It's one thing to watch the scale go up when you're strength training, it's a completely different mind confusion when your measurements go up as well.
Showing posts with label Strength Training. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Strength Training. Show all posts
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Thursday, April 24, 2014
Thankful Thursday #6
1. I am thankful that I have been enjoying Body Revolution. Even though I peeked and my weight and measurements are up I know that I am doing something good for my body and it will work itself out in the end. I have to continue to remind myself that this is not something that will change overnight so there's no point crying about the lack of progress when in fact there is progress. I feel stronger and all around better.
2. I am thankful for house hunting. We have officially begun the process of looking for a house to buy and although we went out and looked at all of the houses that are available in our area in our price range and nothing worked out, it just means that our house isn't for sale yet and that we have to keep looking. Our house is out there and this process is actually kind of fun.
3. I am thankful that we have found a great system for keeping the apartment clean. It wasn't bad, but now the chores feel more even and we aren't feeling under appreciated or like one person is doing more than the other. We've fallen off a little this week for various reasons but we're both committed to getting back on track.
4. I am thankful for my husband and his use of the phrase "Your face..."
5. I am also thankful for my husband and for joining me once a week to workout. It can get kind of boring when you're doing a strength training DVD by yourself, but I truly look forward to that one day a week that he joins me. Even though he gives me the dirtiest of looks right when we finish, I think it's a good thing for both of us.
2. I am thankful for house hunting. We have officially begun the process of looking for a house to buy and although we went out and looked at all of the houses that are available in our area in our price range and nothing worked out, it just means that our house isn't for sale yet and that we have to keep looking. Our house is out there and this process is actually kind of fun.
3. I am thankful that we have found a great system for keeping the apartment clean. It wasn't bad, but now the chores feel more even and we aren't feeling under appreciated or like one person is doing more than the other. We've fallen off a little this week for various reasons but we're both committed to getting back on track.
4. I am thankful for my husband and his use of the phrase "Your face..."
5. I am also thankful for my husband and for joining me once a week to workout. It can get kind of boring when you're doing a strength training DVD by yourself, but I truly look forward to that one day a week that he joins me. Even though he gives me the dirtiest of looks right when we finish, I think it's a good thing for both of us.
Monday, April 21, 2014
Motivation
Or lack thereof...
I don't know what's wrong with me, but I tend to feel this way when I take a day "off" from tracking. I also tend to feel this way when I stop blogging. I sometimes get these feelings that what I write about is not meaningful so there's really no point in typing it all out because more likely than not other people have already realized the same things. Sometimes I just don't know what to write about, other days I feel as though I sound like a broken record. Sometimes I have nothing exciting going on, other days I do but can't write about it, most of the time what's exciting to me is usually not to others.
Then I start thinking about it. I mean, really thinking about it. What I realize is that this blog is for me and if what it takes to keep my motivation is to brag about it then that's what I'm going to do. If I need to post about each run, workout, meal, or whatever it is that is going on then I'm going to in order to keep myself going. I figure that I'm not forcing anyone to read along and find that when I do write about it, no matter how short or long, no matter how meaningful/full of knowledge or how insignificant/full of rambling thoughts it may be, if I find it helpful then I'm going to do it.
So I left off with my last post on Friday with a loss on the scale. A small loss, but a loss none the less and at this point I'm going to take whatever I can get.
It probably comes as no surprise that I have fallen off the wagon. Hard.
I had this great idea for Easter. I was going to do exactly what I did for Thanksgiving and Christmas. I was going to track my meal as an even 1000 calories, pick and choose the foods that I really wanted to eat, take a portion of those items and enjoy myself.
It's pretty obvious that that didn't happen. Multiple trips for appetizers, an unbelievable amount of candy and then dinner and dessert (including an amazing "heaven in a dish") I left my parents house with a stomach ache and a disappointment in my head and my heart. The scale and my stomach are feeling it today as well with a 6 pound gain overnight (most likely a lot of that is false.. hopefully) and with the way my stomach looks I'm surprised no one has asked me when I'm due (I'm not, just in case you were wondering).
So, I had choices today.
Track or not track?
Workout or take another rest day?
Dwell or move on?
I chose to start the day tracking but then stopped at lunch time when we went out for a coworkers birthday. It was not a good enough excuse to quit, but it is what it is and tomorrow is another day to try again.
I will admit that I was extremely tempted to take another rest day from strength training. This is why I need a training plan that has me doing something every single day. It's just how I work. If I take a rest day then I'm going to want to keep resting and it takes a long time to get back into it. I woke up around 4:20 this morning with my alarm with enough energy to get up and go do my workout, but I also had enough desire to go back to sleep. Then I thought I would just do the workout on my lunch, forgetting in my sleepy haze that I had lunch plans. It took a bit of coercing to get myself into my workout clothes when I got home when the couch looked so comfy, but I did the workout and am so glad that I did. And then I went for a quick 1.21 mile interval run when Patrick got home from work.
I am moving on. There is no point in thinking about what I could have done yesterday. I can't go back and change it. I can change what happens for the rest of tonight and for tomorrow, maybe even for the rest of the week. Beyond that, who knows what's going to happen.
So here is what I did last week workout wise and what I plan to do for this week:
Sunday 4/13: cross training/gym- stationary bike 30-45 minutes completed, minimum 1 mile interval run completed
I don't know what's wrong with me, but I tend to feel this way when I take a day "off" from tracking. I also tend to feel this way when I stop blogging. I sometimes get these feelings that what I write about is not meaningful so there's really no point in typing it all out because more likely than not other people have already realized the same things. Sometimes I just don't know what to write about, other days I feel as though I sound like a broken record. Sometimes I have nothing exciting going on, other days I do but can't write about it, most of the time what's exciting to me is usually not to others.
Then I start thinking about it. I mean, really thinking about it. What I realize is that this blog is for me and if what it takes to keep my motivation is to brag about it then that's what I'm going to do. If I need to post about each run, workout, meal, or whatever it is that is going on then I'm going to in order to keep myself going. I figure that I'm not forcing anyone to read along and find that when I do write about it, no matter how short or long, no matter how meaningful/full of knowledge or how insignificant/full of rambling thoughts it may be, if I find it helpful then I'm going to do it.
So I left off with my last post on Friday with a loss on the scale. A small loss, but a loss none the less and at this point I'm going to take whatever I can get.
It probably comes as no surprise that I have fallen off the wagon. Hard.
I had this great idea for Easter. I was going to do exactly what I did for Thanksgiving and Christmas. I was going to track my meal as an even 1000 calories, pick and choose the foods that I really wanted to eat, take a portion of those items and enjoy myself.
It's pretty obvious that that didn't happen. Multiple trips for appetizers, an unbelievable amount of candy and then dinner and dessert (including an amazing "heaven in a dish") I left my parents house with a stomach ache and a disappointment in my head and my heart. The scale and my stomach are feeling it today as well with a 6 pound gain overnight (most likely a lot of that is false.. hopefully) and with the way my stomach looks I'm surprised no one has asked me when I'm due (I'm not, just in case you were wondering).
So, I had choices today.
Track or not track?
Workout or take another rest day?
Dwell or move on?
I chose to start the day tracking but then stopped at lunch time when we went out for a coworkers birthday. It was not a good enough excuse to quit, but it is what it is and tomorrow is another day to try again.
I will admit that I was extremely tempted to take another rest day from strength training. This is why I need a training plan that has me doing something every single day. It's just how I work. If I take a rest day then I'm going to want to keep resting and it takes a long time to get back into it. I woke up around 4:20 this morning with my alarm with enough energy to get up and go do my workout, but I also had enough desire to go back to sleep. Then I thought I would just do the workout on my lunch, forgetting in my sleepy haze that I had lunch plans. It took a bit of coercing to get myself into my workout clothes when I got home when the couch looked so comfy, but I did the workout and am so glad that I did. And then I went for a quick 1.21 mile interval run when Patrick got home from work.
I am moving on. There is no point in thinking about what I could have done yesterday. I can't go back and change it. I can change what happens for the rest of tonight and for tomorrow, maybe even for the rest of the week. Beyond that, who knows what's going to happen.
So here is what I did last week workout wise and what I plan to do for this week:
Sunday 4/13: cross training/gym- stationary bike 30-45 minutes completed, minimum 1 mile interval run completed
Monday 4/14: strength training/DVD- Body Revolution workout 1 completed, minimum 1 mile interval run completed
Tuesday 4/15: strength training/DVD- Body Revolution workout 2 completed, minimum 1 mile interval run completed
Wednesday 4/16: strength training/DVD- Body Revolution cardio 1 completed, 2-3 mile interval run completed
Thursday 4/17: strength training/DVD- Body Revolution workout 1 completed, minimum 1 mile interval run completed
Friday 4/18: strength training/DVD- Body Revolution workout 2 completed, minimum 1 mile interval run completed
Saturday 4/19: strength training/DVD- Body Revolution cardio 1 completed, 8 mile interval run did not complete
The only workout that I planned on that I didn't complete was the 8 mile run on Sunday. I realized pretty early on in the week that I didn't give myself enough rest time before my half marathon next weekend. I decided that I would rather split the mileage between Saturday and Sunday then to do it all on one day. So that's what I did.. To be honest, I'm thrilled with how this week went and would call it a major success. I can't remember the last time I completed so many scheduled workouts..
Sunday 4/20: 4 mile interval run
Monday 4/21: Body Revolution Workout 1, minimum 1 mile interval run
Tuesday 4/22: Body Revolution Workout 2, 2-3 mile interval run
Wednesday 4/23: Body Revolution Cardio 1, minimum 1 mile interval run
Thursday 4/24: Body Revolution Workout 1, 2-3 mile interval run
Friday 4/25: Body Revolution Workout 2, minimum 1 mile interval run
Saturday 4/26: Body Revolution Cardio 1, minimum 1 mile interval run
I have really been enjoying the Body Revolution workout so far. Granted the first two weeks are the same workouts and are the easiest of the challenge. They're considered to be easier in order to build your foundation, strength and balance. It's still Jillian, so it is by no means easy, but I really like the system so far and I am really looking forward to continuing and completing the full 90 days. I even talked Patrick into joining me one day last week. He may even join me again this week.
I don't feel too sore either, which is great because I was concerned it would affect my running, but in reality I have been finding that I already feel my legs are stronger and running has been a little bit easier. Hoping that the results are as awesome as they've been on other Jillian programs.
Here's to more writing and a better tomorrow!
The only workout that I planned on that I didn't complete was the 8 mile run on Sunday. I realized pretty early on in the week that I didn't give myself enough rest time before my half marathon next weekend. I decided that I would rather split the mileage between Saturday and Sunday then to do it all on one day. So that's what I did.. To be honest, I'm thrilled with how this week went and would call it a major success. I can't remember the last time I completed so many scheduled workouts..
Sunday 4/20: 4 mile interval run
Monday 4/21: Body Revolution Workout 1, minimum 1 mile interval run
Tuesday 4/22: Body Revolution Workout 2, 2-3 mile interval run
Wednesday 4/23: Body Revolution Cardio 1, minimum 1 mile interval run
Thursday 4/24: Body Revolution Workout 1, 2-3 mile interval run
Friday 4/25: Body Revolution Workout 2, minimum 1 mile interval run
Saturday 4/26: Body Revolution Cardio 1, minimum 1 mile interval run
I have really been enjoying the Body Revolution workout so far. Granted the first two weeks are the same workouts and are the easiest of the challenge. They're considered to be easier in order to build your foundation, strength and balance. It's still Jillian, so it is by no means easy, but I really like the system so far and I am really looking forward to continuing and completing the full 90 days. I even talked Patrick into joining me one day last week. He may even join me again this week.
I don't feel too sore either, which is great because I was concerned it would affect my running, but in reality I have been finding that I already feel my legs are stronger and running has been a little bit easier. Hoping that the results are as awesome as they've been on other Jillian programs.
Here's to more writing and a better tomorrow!
Friday, April 18, 2014
Weigh In #19
Starting Weight: 189.2
Last Weeks Weight: 181.2
This Weeks Weight: 180.6
+/-: -0.6
Total +/-: -8.6
Total +/-: -8.6
I am actually surprised to see this loss and am very happy with it. I did think that I would see a gain due to the addition of strength training again, but it ended up being a decent week all around, pretty balanced in regards to food and I am definitely happy being back in a routine with strength and running.
I always feel better all around when I'm working out. I've got endorphins flowing and I feel better physically and mentally. I need to remember this if I fall off the wagon again...
Last weeks goals:
1. Track. Stay in the black more than half the week. I made it, but barely. I went over on calories three days, however two of those days were over by very little (less than 50). There were also a couple days that I had quite a bit left over (over 200). I've already burned over 4000 calories since starting Body Revolution on Monday and I'm still trying to find a balance. I am using my heart rate monitor, so it's at least the most accurate count I can get. Some days I'm constantly hungry, some days I feel like I'm forcing myself to eat and some days I just find nothing appetizing. I don't want to just eat to eat, I want to eat well and get the most out of it.
2. Water. Still drinking lots of water and feeling great about it. At least 6 glasses a day and trying to do more if possible.
3. Cut down on sweets. I did indulge a little, but not nearly as much as last week. I truly believe I was eating some form of candy at least once a day every day last week. I needed to stop that and I felt that this week was a better balance of healthy foods and treats.
4. No fast food. I made it all the way until yesterday with no fast food. I did go out, but my goal was no drive thru. After a long day and no food between 630am and 130pm we had to stop somewhere. We ended up at Jack In The Box. I stayed within my calories for the day, didn't go overboard and I'm moving on.
5. Make workout schedule. I did make my workout schedule for this week and I've stuck with each workout. I do have an issue with tomorrow's workout and I'll probably have to shorten the mileage down from 8 miles since my next half marathon is next weekend.
This weeks goals:
1. Track.
2. Water.
3. Do not go overboard on Easter.
4. Make workout schedule on Sunday.
5. Take measurements at next weigh in.
Sunday, April 13, 2014
Workout Schedule 4/13 - 4/19 & Mileage Update #12
Sunday 4/13: cross training/gym- stationary bike 30-45 minutes, minimum 1 mile interval run
Body revolution.. I finally decided it was time to start another strength training challenge. I find it easier to follow a challenge like this, for whatever reason it's too easy for me to give up when I plan different strength DVDs a couple times a week.
Monthly mileage goal: 105 miles
Yearly mileage goal: 1250 miles
Total mileage recorded to date (1/1/12-4/13/14): 2177.29 miles
Running streak goal: 500 days
Monday 4/14: strength training/DVD- Body Revolution workout 1, minimum 1 mile interval run
Tuesday 4/15: strength training/DVD- Body Revolution workout 2, minimum 1 mile interval run
Wednesday 4/16: strength training/DVD- Body Revolution cardio 1, 2-3 mile interval run
Thursday 4/17: strength training/DVD- Body Revolution workout 1, minimum 1 mile interval run
Friday 4/18: strength training/DVD- Body Revolution workout 2, minimum 1 mile interval run
Saturday 4/19: strength training/DVD- Body Revolution cardio 1, 8 mile interval run
I had wanted to wait until I got closer to my goal weight, but why? Other than the fact that I know I will end up gaining weight for a while because of the changes in my muscles, there really is no reason to not do what works best.
I have always found that strength training is the best thing for me physically and mentally. I love the way I look regardless of what I weigh when I am following a workout that tones and my main focus will be my health and the way I feel, not what I weigh.
I've done it before and I'm doing it again and I will see success. My hope is to workout in the morning before work. I get in first and we have a part of the back room that we use for working out. I figure it will be better for me to get it done first thing and since we currently live on the second floor of an apartment it will save our neighbor the pain of being loud most nights.
I know that schedules will interfere, so I'm trying to make sure I get it done either in the morning or on my lunch, but I think I was able to talk Patrick into working out with me one night a week (I asked for 2-3 days, he agreed to 1 and I took it). Those nights I will be more than happy to wait for him. I think it will be a good thing for both of us.
I know that schedules will interfere, so I'm trying to make sure I get it done either in the morning or on my lunch, but I think I was able to talk Patrick into working out with me one night a week (I asked for 2-3 days, he agreed to 1 and I took it). Those nights I will be more than happy to wait for him. I think it will be a good thing for both of us.
Bring it Jillian..
Mileage update: (including tonight's run)
Monthly mileage goal: 105 miles
Monthly mileage as of 4/13: 47.11 miles
Yearly mileage goal: 1250 miles
Yearly mileage as of 4/13: 427.28 miles
34.18% complete
Total mileage recorded to date (1/1/12-4/13/14): 2177.29 miles
Running streak goal: 500 days
Running streak: day 175
This week's mileage: 25.90 miles
Sunday- 1.23 mile interval run
Monday- 2.04 mile walk, 2.44 mile interval run
Tuesday- 2.04 mile interval run
Wednesday- 2.05 mile interval run
Thursday- 1.34 mile walk, 2.08 mile interval run
Friday- 2.04 mile walk, 1.34 mile walk, 2.64 mile interval run
Saturday- 5.51 mile interval run
Sunday- 1.14 mile interval run
This week's mileage: 25.90 miles
Sunday- 1.23 mile interval run
Monday- 2.04 mile walk, 2.44 mile interval run
Tuesday- 2.04 mile interval run
Wednesday- 2.05 mile interval run
Thursday- 1.34 mile walk, 2.08 mile interval run
Friday- 2.04 mile walk, 1.34 mile walk, 2.64 mile interval run
Saturday- 5.51 mile interval run
Sunday- 1.14 mile interval run
Friday, April 11, 2014
Weigh In #18
Starting Weight: 189.2
Last Weeks Weight: 182.4
This Weeks Weight: 181.2
+/-: -1.2
Total +/-: -8
Total +/-: -8
I am having a difficult time finding a balance between eating well and working out. I enjoy working out more and feel like I see more results to my body when I am strength training and I absolutely love to run, but I find that most of the time I waste the progress I've made through exercise by eating unhealthy foods.
I find that when I am tracking, eating healthy and staying within my calories then I am usually not putting in my all with working out. And the same can be said for when I am in full workout/training mode. I'm more focused on the workouts than I am the food.
It's a very delicate balance that I am trying to find for myself. I know it will help when I get out of the mind set that I need to do this all or nothing. I can workout 3 days a week and see progress. It does not need to be an extreme every time. Of course as I type that I am also considering starting the Jillian Michael's Body Revolution 90 day program...
I know for me that I need to set goals. Like tracking every day for a year or doing a workout routine that lasts 3 months. It helps me to stay focused, to feel determined and to accomplish something. If I take a rest day, as silly as it may sound, I fall completely off the wagon. Even if that rest day is planned.
I'm hoping that I can get on the same page about both so that everything will fall into place.
Last weeks goals:
1. Track. Stay in the black more than half the week. I only went into the red one day and even then I stayed under 2,000 total calories. It felt great to see those positive numbers all week.
2. Water. This is the first week in a long time that I drank at least 6 glasses of water every day. I think this challenge at work is definitely helping!
3. Clean out closet and dresser. I finished cleaning out my closet, now onto the dresser.
4. Stick to workout schedule. Not so much, but I have been enjoying my running workouts, so half of my scheduled workout was done.
Workout schedule:
April 4th - April 10th
Friday April 4th: arm workout did not complete, minimum 1 mile interval run completed
Saturday April 5th: Hollywood Half Marathon completed
Sunday April 6th: gym did not complete, minimum 1 mile interval run completed
Monday April 7th: arm workout did not complete, 2-3 mile interval run completed
Tuesday April 8th: strength DVD did not complete, minimum 1 mile interval run completed
Wednesday April 9th: arm workout did not complete, 2-3 mile interval run completed
Thursday April 10th: strength DVD did not complete, minimum 1 mile interval run completed
This weeks goals:
1. Track. Stay in the black more than half the week.
2. Water.
3. Cut down on sweets.
4. No fast food.
5. Make workout schedule.
Workout schedule:
April 11th - April 17th
TBD. I am going to decide today if I'm going to commit to doing the 90 day program and will post a workout schedule this weekend.
Progress Pictures: January-April
Okay, so I'm late in posting my progress photo this month. I'm not sure why I decided to not take the photo for so long, other than being forgetful or not having someone to take my picture in the morning (my ideal time to do this sort of thing). In all honesty, I'm not that disappointed with the progress, or lack there of. I know that in order to see progress then I actually have to be doing something productive to change what I don't like and I really have not been doing that. So, I'm using this as motivation to make that commitment to do something about the things that I don't like.
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Thankful Thursday #5
1. I am thankful for new running shoes. After having some major issues while training for the LA Marathon last year I decided it was pretty stupid of me to be so stubborn. I took my sisters advice and went to a running store to be professionally fitted. Prior to this I was wearing shoes from department stores and went by how they felt. That worked well until if didn't and that last pair of running shoes was almost my last. My generous parents bought me my first pair and I have refused to try anything since. Thankfully Amazon recently had an amazing sale and I stocked up on a few pairs to last me awhile. And, right after the race on Saturday I knew it was time for a shiny new pair to be broken in. My feet feel fantastic and it's like running on clouds.
2. I am thankful for detailed and color coordinated chore charts. And of course for a husband who is patient and understanding when it comes to my OCD. The apartment has stayed clean and on day two of our calendar I had to ask what I am supposed to do during the 20 minute pickup if I only have 5 minutes worth of stuff to do.. I can see this working for us!
3. I am grateful to my best friend for being willing to jump back into a workout routine to help hold me accountable. I know that it is so much easier for me to stay accountable when I have someone doing it with me. We've seen success together a few times before, I know that if we stick with it this time we will see success again.
4. I am thankful for my parents, who let me run after work. It is easier for me to run immediately after work because it doesn't give me the opportunity to sit down. Knowing myself I know that I won't get back up, so going for a 1-3 mile run around their neighborhood is so incredibly helpful, especially since I can keep going if the run feels good or stop if I'm just having a bad run day.
5. I am thankful for tomorrow. Both the fact that it's Friday and because it's weigh in. I'm excited to have a fresh week. I didn't do bad this week food-wise but could have done better fitness-wise. I have yet to take my progress picture for the month for fear of seeing the changes, but will be taking them tonight to post tomorrow. I've been peaking at the scale all week and today was my highest day and I'm still less than last week, so here's hoping there's a loss tomorrow!
Friday, April 4, 2014
Weigh In #17
Starting Weight: 189.2
Marley weighing in.
Last Weeks Weight: 182.0
This Weeks Weight: 182.4
+/-: +0.4
Total +/-: -6.8
Total +/-: -6.8
Clearly I'm doing something wrong here, and I'm pretty much over the fact that I'm not committed 100% to this effort of losing weight, keeping it off, and living a healthy lifestyle.
So I am committing to myself this week to give it my all. I'm not shooting for perfection here, just progress.
I could make excuse after excuse about why I haven't been strength training even though it works. I could justify the fact that I'm tracking every thing I eat even if that means I'm going over calories. I can explain that I've been really stressed at work and that carries over into my personal life and when I'm stressed I eat.
That's not going to solve anything though. What is going to make a difference is what I do about it, not what I say about it. And I've been a lot of talk with little action.
I need to start blogging more to hold myself accountable. I need to turn here when I've had a difficult day, to vent it out and work through why I want to turn to food. I need to turn here when I have no motivation to workout, to figure out what's holding me back and to hopefully find a small amount of motivation to do the workout.
I can't keep doing what I'm doing though. Because I can tell a difference when I look in the mirror. I can see myself going back to a body that I didn't appreciate, a body that made me feel self conscious. I've made too much progress mentally in that area to turn around and throw it all away physically.
Last weeks goals:
1. Track. I did it! I've made it another week with tracking everything. I did go over on calories six out of the seven days, however only one of those days did I net over 2000 calories. Baby steps.
2. Water. Doing better with this one. I made it all but one day with at least 6 glasses of water. We started a new challenge at work to get in more water, so I am paying more attention to how much I am actually drinking so that I can accurately log my glasses of water each day.
3. Clean out closet and dresser. If by cleaning out I actually meant adding more then I succeeded. I have a weakness for online shopping when there is an amazing sale going on and I may or may not have indulged in some new clothes shopping a couple days last week. So far, everything that I have received I have loved, so at least there's that. It all fits, I feel great and I am hoping to actually need this new business attire I've got going on soon. It's too casual too often here. It's nice to spruce it up. Unfortunately, there is a pile of hang ups sitting in front of my closet. A reminder to actually go through, get rid of (and not feel guilty for getting rid of) my older clothes that I no longer fit into, wear or like.
4. Make April training schedule. I have it printed out and ready to go. I am going to be filling it in week by week so that I can work with Patrick's schedule and actually schedule workouts on days that I know they will get done. Things come up and happen (like being clumsy and tripping and pulling your side) but I'm trying to be flexible when it comes to rescheduling for realistic events and not just random excuses.
5. Stick to workout schedule for coming week. Not quite. I did change things around when I made my workout schedule for this first week of April, so there's that. Plus the slight "injury". It is what it is.
Workout schedule:
March 28th - April 3rd
Friday 3/28: arm workout completed, minimum 1 mile interval run completed
Saturday 3/29: 5 mile training run did not complete (did run 1 mile), cross training did not complete
Sunday 3/30: minimum 1 mile interval run completed, cross training did not complete
Monday 3/31: arm workout completed, 2-3 mile interval run completed
Tuesday 4/1: strength training DVD completed, minimum 1 mile interval run completed
Wednesday 4/2: arm workout did not complete, 2-3 mile interval run did not complete (did run 1 mile)
Thursday 4/3: strength training DVD did not complete, minimum 1 mile interval run completed
This weeks goals:
1. Track. Stay in the black more than half the week.
2. Water.
3. Clean out closet and dresser.
4. Stick to workout schedule.
Workout schedule:
April 4th - April 10th
Friday April 4th: arm workout, minimum 1 mile interval run
Saturday April 5th: Hollywood Half Marathon
Sunday April 6th: gym, minimum 1 mile interval run
Monday April 7th: arm workout, 2-3 mile interval run
Tuesday April 8th: strength DVD, minimum 1 mile interval run
Wednesday April 9th: arm workout, 2-3 mile interval run
Thursday April 10th: strength DVD, minimum 1 mile interval run
So there it is. My breaking point of where I needed to get in order to start to make some positive progress. I think this week is going to be a good one. I'm ready mentally and I plan to go grocery shopping today in order to fill the refrigerator with healthy foods again. I've got this.. I hope!
Thursday, April 3, 2014
Thankful Thursday #4
1. I am thankful to my family and friends for making my birthday last week a wonderful one. I am so grateful to be surrounded by such amazing people and so lucky to be able to not just love my family because I have to but love them because I want to. It's like that saying about sisters.. "Sisters by chance, friends by choice." It's so true in regards to each one of these relationships. I couldn't be luckier!
2. I am thankful that I finally was able to talk to my boss and coworker that I work directly with about some things that have been bottling up for awhile. It was like a weight was lifted off of my shoulders and I finally feel like we can make some forward progress. I held some things in that had been bothering me for awhile because I didn't want to step on anyones toes and because I truly didn't think anything would be done about it. Thankfully I was wrong about that last part and I may finally get the proper training that I deserve and need in order to be the best I can be at my job.
3. I am thankful that I am taking a couple days off from working out. Not that I was doing that much and not that I was actually in a routine that was exhausting or taking up too much time, but it was a good reminder for me to slow down and not jump in head first again. I tripped yesterday on my lunch break and ended up pulling something in my back. Yesterday's workout plan was 2-3 miles and an arm workout. I ended up going for 1.14 miles (to satisfy the streak), but skipped the strength. Today's workout is a strength DVD, cross training at the gym and a 1 mile run. I am adjusting it slightly to skip the strength DVD, but I will do the run and the stationary bike tonight. I do plan on doing my arm workout tomorrow but taking it easy with another 1 miler since the next half is Saturday.
4. I am thankful that I have decided to start journaling to Isabel instead of just using the journal to complain about daily annoyances. That was not my intention when I started journaling but it became so easy to focus on the frustrations in life (as petty as they were) instead of on the positives. I finally finished my second book for March yesterday and ended up crying at the ending. It involved a mother dying and leaving her 16 year old daughter a journal that she had been writing to her since finding out she was sick. I don't want to look back and think about the things I wish I would have done but didn't because I thought someone would think the idea was stupid or not start now because I wish I would have been doing this for the past 6 years. No, instead I started last night and I intend to keep going for who knows how long. It's a place to keep our story, our past, our present, hopes for our future, quotes, funny things she says or does, adventures we go on, adventures I hope for us to go on, etc.
5. I am thankful that I have so much in my life that makes me happy. I'm not happy 24/7 and I definitely have struggles in my life, but I think I learned awhile ago that it's better to focus on the good in your life then on the things you want to change. I'm working on improving my life in so many ways and I can't wait to see what the future has in store for me. I know that everything happens for a reason and I'm accepting of what's happened so far. To be honest, the person I am today is so different from who I was just a year ago. I can only hope that the changes (which I believe to be for the better) can be seen by those around me. I feel more positive, outgoing, and just all around happy. It's a good place to be.
2. I am thankful that I finally was able to talk to my boss and coworker that I work directly with about some things that have been bottling up for awhile. It was like a weight was lifted off of my shoulders and I finally feel like we can make some forward progress. I held some things in that had been bothering me for awhile because I didn't want to step on anyones toes and because I truly didn't think anything would be done about it. Thankfully I was wrong about that last part and I may finally get the proper training that I deserve and need in order to be the best I can be at my job.
3. I am thankful that I am taking a couple days off from working out. Not that I was doing that much and not that I was actually in a routine that was exhausting or taking up too much time, but it was a good reminder for me to slow down and not jump in head first again. I tripped yesterday on my lunch break and ended up pulling something in my back. Yesterday's workout plan was 2-3 miles and an arm workout. I ended up going for 1.14 miles (to satisfy the streak), but skipped the strength. Today's workout is a strength DVD, cross training at the gym and a 1 mile run. I am adjusting it slightly to skip the strength DVD, but I will do the run and the stationary bike tonight. I do plan on doing my arm workout tomorrow but taking it easy with another 1 miler since the next half is Saturday.
4. I am thankful that I have decided to start journaling to Isabel instead of just using the journal to complain about daily annoyances. That was not my intention when I started journaling but it became so easy to focus on the frustrations in life (as petty as they were) instead of on the positives. I finally finished my second book for March yesterday and ended up crying at the ending. It involved a mother dying and leaving her 16 year old daughter a journal that she had been writing to her since finding out she was sick. I don't want to look back and think about the things I wish I would have done but didn't because I thought someone would think the idea was stupid or not start now because I wish I would have been doing this for the past 6 years. No, instead I started last night and I intend to keep going for who knows how long. It's a place to keep our story, our past, our present, hopes for our future, quotes, funny things she says or does, adventures we go on, adventures I hope for us to go on, etc.
5. I am thankful that I have so much in my life that makes me happy. I'm not happy 24/7 and I definitely have struggles in my life, but I think I learned awhile ago that it's better to focus on the good in your life then on the things you want to change. I'm working on improving my life in so many ways and I can't wait to see what the future has in store for me. I know that everything happens for a reason and I'm accepting of what's happened so far. To be honest, the person I am today is so different from who I was just a year ago. I can only hope that the changes (which I believe to be for the better) can be seen by those around me. I feel more positive, outgoing, and just all around happy. It's a good place to be.
Friday, March 28, 2014
Weigh In #16
Starting Weight: 189.2
Last Weeks Weight: 179.8
This Weeks Weight: 182.0
+/-: +2.2
Total +/-: -7.2
Total +/-: -7.2
Okay, so I weighed myself yesterday morning because I was feeling good and I knew that I would be eating a lot for my birthday (lunch out with my best friend, a cake at work, dinner out with the family, cake with the family..) I weighed in at 179.8, the same exact weight as last week.
This morning I step on the scale and it's up to 182.
I'm not worried or concerned or annoyed or frustrated. In fact I'm just happy. I'm happy that I had a wonderful birthday that I enjoyed and that I didn't go completely overboard. I had soup and salad for dinner and enjoyed a small pieces of cake. Nothing over the top or crazy. Just apparently a lot of sodium.
I'm sure it will all even itself out and I'll be back in no time. I mean, a 2.2 pound gain in one day is a little much to all be a true gain. Either way, it is what it is and there's nothing I can do about it now other than work on staying within my calories this next week and to continue to make the best choices for me as well as to up the workouts. I've been slacking and need to get back to it, if for no other reason it makes me feel fantastic and I miss those endorphins. I am definitely still trying to find that balance with all or nothing when it comes to workouts. Hoping to figure that out soon.
Last weeks goals:
1. Track. You probably won't believe this, but I have tracked every single thing every single day this week. I went over on calories five of the seven days, but I tracked. And, to be honest, it wasn't an awful week. I mean, obviously it would be better if I hadn't gone over so many days, but the point of tracking is to track it all. And I did.
2. Water. I drank at least 6 glasses of water 6/7 days this past week. I am getting much better about it and am feeling better too. I plan to keep going in order to make it the full 7 days a week.
3. Clean out closet and dresser. I did not get to this goal this week but plan to soon because I have been doing a little online shopping this past week and need to clear out the old to make way for the new. I have purchased more business attire items because I want to be taken professionally. I can't keep doing the jeans and a t-shirt thing.
4. Work on training schedule. I also did not work on this either. I have looked into Jeff Galloway's training plan a little more and do plan on using this, but I need to sit down and realistically write it out so that it is on the calendar for Patrick to see so that he is aware of what days I'm going to need to be focused on training and will need extra help (mentally, emotionally, physically, etc).
5. Enjoy my birthday dinner. Definitely succeeded in this! I decided to go to Chili's and even though I was planning on splurging (slightly) and getting the margarita chicken with rice and black beans, I ended up going with the soup and salad because I was still so full from having Chipotle for lunch. It was delicious and I really enjoyed it!
Workout schedule:
March 21st - March 27th
Friday 3/21: 2-3 mile interval run completed (3.10 miles)
Saturday 3/22: 8 mile interval run completed (8.14 miles)
Sunday 3/23: minimum 1 mile interval run completed (1.05 miles), cross train completed (15 minutes stationary bike)
Monday 3/24: arm workout did not complete, 2-3 mile interval run completed (3.09 mile interval run)
Tuesday 3/25: 30 day shred did not complete, minimum 1 mile interval run completed (1.51 mile interval run)
Wednesday 3/26: arm workout did not complete, 2-3 mile interval run completed (2.52 mile interval run), Ripped in 30 completed (warm up and circuit 1)
Thursday 3/27: 30 day shred did not complete, minimum 1 mile interval run completed (1.09 mile interval run)
This weeks goals:
1. Track.
2. Water.
3. Clean out closet and dresser.
4. Make April training schedule.
5. Stick to workout schedule for coming week.
Workout schedule:
March 28th - April 3rd
Friday 3/28: arm workout, minimum 1 mile interval run
Saturday 3/29: 5 mile training run, cross training
Sunday 3/30: minimum 1 mile interval run, cross training
Monday 3/31: arm workout, 2-3 mile interval run
Tuesday 4/1: strength training DVD, minimum 1 mile interval run
Wednesday 4/2: arm workout, 2-3 mile interval run
Thursday 4/3: strength training DVD, minimum 1 mile interval run
Friday, March 21, 2014
Weigh In #15
Starting Weight: 189.2
Last Weeks Weight: 181.4
This Weeks Weight: 179.6
+/-: -1.8
Total +/-: -9.6
Total +/-: -9.6
I have been off of the wagon for a while now. To the point where when I tried to catch up and jump back on I ended up getting caught and dragged. So, that's where I've been with that.
With my birthday coming up next week I made a deal with myself to not track or do anything special for the next week or so and then I would get back to it with 100% commitment on April 1st.
But then I woke up this morning. I thought about what I wanted, what I needed. I knew right away that what I want is to start tracking, start exercising and start caring about it again. I miss that feeling when you're giving it your all and it pays off. I can't expect to give it 50% and get the results you want.
So, I stepped on the scale and am moving forward with this new found desire to see results. I got a little too comfortable and even though I don't have all the motivation I would like at this point I am ready to fake it until I make it.
I am hoping that whatever this new start is can kick my backside into gear to get more serious about training. I still have a lot of races coming up and I know I feel better when I'm in full training mode. Plus, it would be nice to see some successes at the end of the week in regards to my goals and workout schedule.
This weeks goals:
1. Track.
2. Water.
3. Clean out closet and dresser.
4. Work on training schedule.
5. Enjoy my birthday dinner.
Workout schedule:
March 21st - March 27th
Friday 3/21: 2-3 mile interval run
Saturday 3/22: 8 mile interval run
Sunday 3/23: minimum 1 mile interval run, cross train
Monday 3/24: arm workout, 2-3 mile interval run
Tuesday 3/25: 30 day shred, minimum 1 mile interval run
Wednesday 3/26: arm workout, 2-3 mile interval run
Thursday 3/27: 30 day shred, minimum 1 mile interval run
Measurements
Original measurements taken October 15th:
Chest: 41
Waist: 37.5
Hips: 45.5
L thigh: 26.5
L arm: 13
L calf: 14.5
Measurements taken on March 8th:
Chest: 40 (-1)
Measurements taken on March 8th:
Chest: 40 (-1)
Waist: 33 (-4.5)
Hips: 43.5 (-2)
L thigh: 24 (-2.5)
L arm: 12.25 (-.75)
Current measurements taken March 22nd:
Chest: 39.25 (-1.75)
Waist: 34 (-3.5)
Hips: 43.5 (-2)
L thigh: 23.5 (-3)
L arm: 12.25 (-.75)
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
March Goals- Update
New Years Goals that will be included monthly:
1. Write in a journal every day- This is not happening anymore. I'm a little disappointed that I missed a few days, but I do plan on picking it back up. Writing in a journal for a year means a year straight, not necessarily January 1st- December 31st. It can be March 16th - March 15th.
2. Take at least one picture a day- Still going strong. I was better about using my actual camera for a while, but started relying on my phone again. It's time to start carrying the actual camera around again.
3. Run and/or walk 105 miles- Going strong and slightly ahead of schedule. This month has not been as high mileage as the last two, but I am still anticipating reaching (and maybe even slightly exceeding) my goal.
4. Run at least one mile every day to continue running streak- Check! I am doing really well with my streak and am trying to go out for more than one mile at a time. I was falling back and doing the bare minimum for running and so now my goal is to do two miles a day with the occasional days of only doing one to reach my goal. Life happens sometimes and you only can make time to get out for a short run, but you're still doing it...
5. Track on MFP- As I mentioned on Saturday, I missed a day of tracking so I am starting my streak over. I was hoping to use it as motivation to track everything, however I already failed that task by only tracking breakfast for the past few days. I think the anxiety of planning and throwing Isabel's birthday party was covered up by eating. A lot.. I'm thinking of taking a quick break from tracking for the rest of the month and getting back in it full force on April 1st. I will still be very conscious of what I am eating, but mentally I need the break through at least my birthday.
6. Read two books- One down one to go! Although I've started the first chapter twice already because I can't seem to stay interested before falling asleep. I may need to start it during the day so that I'm not lying down while reading which makes me more tired.
March Goals:
1. Have at least one child free date night with Patrick- Not yet, and I'm not sure if we will this month..
2. Take Isabel to Paint-A-Dream (as a family)- Not yet. She's going to be going up on the 30th for the princess party with the Frozen sisters, so this may not happen either. I will probably try to think of another date idea for us to do as a family, although we have done dinner out twice with just the three of us and that has been really nice.
3. Have a great 5K race with Isabel- Success! She did a fantastic job on the run and I am so proud of her. Her little legs worked hard to run with me the whole time and she only had one mini meltdown where she wanted to stop. We were at the halfway point and I distracted her by playing "I'm going on a picnic.." It worked and she finished in 41:31!
4. Throw Isabel the best birthday party EVER- I'm going to call this a success..
5. Update budget and track- still going strong with the budget and doing our best to get out of debt and build up our savings. Some days it feels like a challenge and like we will never be able to buy a house, but other days I feel like we're making huge strides.
6. Complete NMTZ Challenge- 3 on/1 off- Fail. Complete and utter fail.
7. Make progress on blanket- I think I've added a total of one row in the past two weeks. Need to spend some time focusing on that.
8. Do not go overboard (food wise) celebrating birthdays- So far I've done okay except for Isabel's birthday party. I felt good after Patrick's and Isabel's actual birthday dinners though, so that's a plus!
1. Write in a journal every day- This is not happening anymore. I'm a little disappointed that I missed a few days, but I do plan on picking it back up. Writing in a journal for a year means a year straight, not necessarily January 1st- December 31st. It can be March 16th - March 15th.
2. Take at least one picture a day- Still going strong. I was better about using my actual camera for a while, but started relying on my phone again. It's time to start carrying the actual camera around again.
3. Run and/or walk 105 miles- Going strong and slightly ahead of schedule. This month has not been as high mileage as the last two, but I am still anticipating reaching (and maybe even slightly exceeding) my goal.
4. Run at least one mile every day to continue running streak- Check! I am doing really well with my streak and am trying to go out for more than one mile at a time. I was falling back and doing the bare minimum for running and so now my goal is to do two miles a day with the occasional days of only doing one to reach my goal. Life happens sometimes and you only can make time to get out for a short run, but you're still doing it...
5. Track on MFP- As I mentioned on Saturday, I missed a day of tracking so I am starting my streak over. I was hoping to use it as motivation to track everything, however I already failed that task by only tracking breakfast for the past few days. I think the anxiety of planning and throwing Isabel's birthday party was covered up by eating. A lot.. I'm thinking of taking a quick break from tracking for the rest of the month and getting back in it full force on April 1st. I will still be very conscious of what I am eating, but mentally I need the break through at least my birthday.
6. Read two books- One down one to go! Although I've started the first chapter twice already because I can't seem to stay interested before falling asleep. I may need to start it during the day so that I'm not lying down while reading which makes me more tired.
March Goals:
1. Have at least one child free date night with Patrick- Not yet, and I'm not sure if we will this month..
2. Take Isabel to Paint-A-Dream (as a family)- Not yet. She's going to be going up on the 30th for the princess party with the Frozen sisters, so this may not happen either. I will probably try to think of another date idea for us to do as a family, although we have done dinner out twice with just the three of us and that has been really nice.
3. Have a great 5K race with Isabel- Success! She did a fantastic job on the run and I am so proud of her. Her little legs worked hard to run with me the whole time and she only had one mini meltdown where she wanted to stop. We were at the halfway point and I distracted her by playing "I'm going on a picnic.." It worked and she finished in 41:31!
4. Throw Isabel the best birthday party EVER- I'm going to call this a success..
6. Complete NMTZ Challenge- 3 on/1 off- Fail. Complete and utter fail.
7. Make progress on blanket- I think I've added a total of one row in the past two weeks. Need to spend some time focusing on that.
8. Do not go overboard (food wise) celebrating birthdays- So far I've done okay except for Isabel's birthday party. I felt good after Patrick's and Isabel's actual birthday dinners though, so that's a plus!
Saturday, March 15, 2014
Weigh In #14
Starting Weight: 189.2
Last Weeks Weight: 181.4
This Weeks Weight: 181.4
Last Weeks Weight: 181.4
This Weeks Weight: 181.4
+/-: 0
Total +/-: -7.8
Total +/-: -7.8
I am a little surprised that I maintained. In a good way. I had almost a full week of not tracking and I can feel it. I am not sure what happened to make me fall off the wagon so hard as I watched it drive away leaving me behind in the dust. I'm not sure what took me so long to the wagon wasn't coming around for me, that I needed to get up, dust myself off and find the wagon. Nobody can do it for me.
It took something happening to make me decide to commit again, and to commit 100%. For a while now I've been tracking very little each day. Some days it's just my coffee, some days I track through lunch, very rarely do I track the whole day (and even then, once I complete my entry for the day I don't go back and track more if I continue eating).. Needless to say, it's no wonder I've been gaining.
Add that to the lack of working out and it's just a combination for disaster.
But on Thursday I forgot to go in and log my coffee. I forgot to go in and log anything. One of the things I like about My Fitness Pal is that it tracks the number of days you've tracked in a row. Thursday would have been day 90. But, since I forgot to log in, yesterday was day 1.
Last Weeks Goals:
1. Track: see above. I'm using this as a kick in the pants to start actually tracking. My goal was 365 days in a row, now it's 365 days in a row of actually tracking my food, not just logging in. It's not a difficult task.
2. Follow workout schedule: no strength training or cross training this week.
3. Do not go overboard at birthdays: we celebrated Patrick's birthday at Red Robin. I had soup & salad and ate a cupcake that I made. Isabel picked Outback Steakhouse for her birthday dinner. I had salmon & carrots. I indulged in appetizers too, but did not feel as though I over did it. Isabel's party is today. The plan is to keep myself busy so that I don't eat all the things. Pizza, pasta salad, fruit, carrots and an entire dessert table. I've got this!
3. Do not go overboard at birthdays: we celebrated Patrick's birthday at Red Robin. I had soup & salad and ate a cupcake that I made. Isabel picked Outback Steakhouse for her birthday dinner. I had salmon & carrots. I indulged in appetizers too, but did not feel as though I over did it. Isabel's party is today. The plan is to keep myself busy so that I don't eat all the things. Pizza, pasta salad, fruit, carrots and an entire dessert table. I've got this!
Workout schedule:
March 9th - March 15th
Sunday: San Diego Half Marathon completed
Monday: streak completed
Tuesday: streak completed
Wednesday: streak completed
Thursday (Patrick's birthday): streak completed
Friday (Isabel's birthday): streak completed
Saturday (Isabel's birthday party): Hope4Kids 5K completed
Get in two strength training sessions (using any DVD I choose) and one cross training session at the gym of a minimum of 30 minutes. did not complete
This weeks goals:
1. Track
2. Follow workout schedule
3. Clean out closet of any clothes I no longer fit into or feel good in
Workout schedule:
March 16th - March 22nd
Sunday: streak
Monday: streak, strength training
Tuesday: streak
Wednesday: streak. strength training
Thursday: streak, cross training
Friday: streak
Saturday: 8 miles
March 9th - March 15th
Sunday: San Diego Half Marathon completed
Monday: streak completed
Tuesday: streak completed
Wednesday: streak completed
Thursday (Patrick's birthday): streak completed
Friday (Isabel's birthday): streak completed
Saturday (Isabel's birthday party): Hope4Kids 5K completed
Get in two strength training sessions (using any DVD I choose) and one cross training session at the gym of a minimum of 30 minutes. did not complete
This weeks goals:
1. Track
2. Follow workout schedule
3. Clean out closet of any clothes I no longer fit into or feel good in
Workout schedule:
March 16th - March 22nd
Sunday: streak
Monday: streak, strength training
Tuesday: streak
Wednesday: streak. strength training
Thursday: streak, cross training
Friday: streak
Saturday: 8 miles
Here's to a great week. I really think I can do it this week. I think I am going to be able to stick to it. I want to see results and the only way that can happen is if I work the plan.
Saturday, March 8, 2014
Progress
This is not the easiest thing for me to post.. But I think it's pretty necessary for where I am at in this journey.
May 2013 March 2014
I am not where I want to be, but I'm also a lot farther than where I was. As I mentioned yesterday at my weigh in, I'm going to choose to focus on how far I've come and not how far I have left to go.
Since I am focusing on the progress I've made, I thought it would be a good idea to go back to one of my original starting pictures (from one of the multiple times I have started over).
Surprisingly, the photos on the left from May of 2013 are from when I weighed 181.8 pounds. No lie.
The photos on the right are from a couple days ago. March 2014. I weigh 181.4.
There is a 0.4 pound difference in these photos. Once again proof that the scale has no bearing on what you look or feel like. I feel healthier, I feel more physically fit, I feel so much more confident.
I am shocked at the difference I have made in 10 months, even if my weight has only changed by less than half a pound. I am excited to see what changes I have left to make on this journey. I think it's important to take progress photos so that when you are having a hard time seeing progress elsewhere you can look back to where you started.
When you see yourself every single day it's hard to notice the changes that are happening. Sometimes I still have days where I feel like the girl on the left. Just starting out, having a difficult time fitting into her clothes. Most days I feel like the girl on the right. The one who holds her head up high because she knows that she has made some amazing changes to her lifestyle.
I showed Patrick the pictures and he couldn't believe the changes either. Again, I truly believe it's because he sees me every day. He does his best to be supportive without saying the wrong things. It's difficult to compliment someone on their weight loss. It's a sensitive subject. Instead he focuses on my dedication and especially to what I am accomplishing physically with running. When he saw these pictures he told me that he was proud of me for everything I've accomplished to become a better, healthier, more confident person.
You know what?
I'm proud of me too.
May 2013 March 2014
I am not where I want to be, but I'm also a lot farther than where I was. As I mentioned yesterday at my weigh in, I'm going to choose to focus on how far I've come and not how far I have left to go.
Since I am focusing on the progress I've made, I thought it would be a good idea to go back to one of my original starting pictures (from one of the multiple times I have started over).
Surprisingly, the photos on the left from May of 2013 are from when I weighed 181.8 pounds. No lie.
The photos on the right are from a couple days ago. March 2014. I weigh 181.4.
There is a 0.4 pound difference in these photos. Once again proof that the scale has no bearing on what you look or feel like. I feel healthier, I feel more physically fit, I feel so much more confident.
I am shocked at the difference I have made in 10 months, even if my weight has only changed by less than half a pound. I am excited to see what changes I have left to make on this journey. I think it's important to take progress photos so that when you are having a hard time seeing progress elsewhere you can look back to where you started.
When you see yourself every single day it's hard to notice the changes that are happening. Sometimes I still have days where I feel like the girl on the left. Just starting out, having a difficult time fitting into her clothes. Most days I feel like the girl on the right. The one who holds her head up high because she knows that she has made some amazing changes to her lifestyle.
I showed Patrick the pictures and he couldn't believe the changes either. Again, I truly believe it's because he sees me every day. He does his best to be supportive without saying the wrong things. It's difficult to compliment someone on their weight loss. It's a sensitive subject. Instead he focuses on my dedication and especially to what I am accomplishing physically with running. When he saw these pictures he told me that he was proud of me for everything I've accomplished to become a better, healthier, more confident person.
You know what?
I'm proud of me too.
Weigh In #13
Starting Weight: 189.2
Last Weeks Weight: 180.6
This Weeks Weight: 181.4
Last Weeks Weight: 180.6
This Weeks Weight: 181.4
+/-: +0.8
Total +/-: -7.8
Total +/-: -7.8
Last Weeks Goals:
1. Track. Everything. Everyday. (hey, it will happen one of these weeks): I did really well tracking most of this week. But I fell off the wagon a little in the middle of the week and didn't even try to get back on. I let myself have a free for all and now I feel horrible about it both physically and mentally. I'm frustrated with myself for reaching a milestone two weeks ago and then letting it slip away because I did not have enough self control to eat healthy and use portion control. I know I will get back there and I'm now done focusing on the could have, should have, would have. This is where I'm at now and it's up to me to find a way to get back to where I want to be.
2. Find a better way to track water. Start small, 6 glasses a day: I did well with tracking up until the same time that I stopped focusing on tracking food. I was getting at least 6 glasses of water a day with some days being closer to and/or over 10 glasses. I stopped tracking though, so I don't actually know if I made it the whole week. Does anyone have a system they use that works?
3. Stick to workout schedule: I didn't quit stick to the schedule and have already stopped the NMTZ Challenge. What is wrong with me??? It's like I set myself up for failure when all I want is success.. I didn't get in the full 5 miles this weekend in one day because I had too many excuses not to. But I did get 2.04 miles on Saturday and 3.51 miles on Sunday. That counts, right?
4. Be self confident and own it: I have seen a tremendous difference in my self-confidence since starting to lose weight this time around. I have been focusing so much more on how I am feeling and less on what I weigh. I am also focusing on measuring success in different ways and not just based on the number on the scale. I have read too many articles (and experienced myself) about the scale being a liar and not the best tool to measure success or even progress. There are so many factors that can affect the scale one way or the other, and although it is a tool and can be helpful to reach certain goals, it's not the only tool and it doesn't tell the whole story.
The last few times I tried to lose weight I became obsessed with the scale and with seeing that number go down. It affected me to the point of questioning my self worth based on what the scale said. If I lost then I was able to do a happy dance and my whole life was validated because I saw success. If I gained then I would look at myself in the mirror and question everything. I honestly don't believe I saw the real me in the mirror, but a version of myself that was unacceptable in every possible way.
I decided for a while to put the scale away. To not care what I weighed and instead focus on how I feel. If I was hungry, I ate. Simple as that. I listened to my body and stopped eating when I was satisfied. Not full, not stuffed, satisfied. Unfortunately, this brought on more weight and although I was feeling better about myself for the first month or so it was showing that I was gaining weight and by the second month I was becoming frustrated with myself. My clothes wouldn't fit and it was affecting my marriage.
I don't know what happened or why it happened when it did, but in the middle of December I decided that I wanted to start the habit of tracking, portion control and making healthy choices overall. I was already in the middle of my running streak and had the daily exercise taken care of. At that point I was mainly focused on the eating. I had gained a lot of weight when I was training for my first marathon and since I had huge goals for 2014 and 2015, I wanted to get down to a healthier weight to make it easier to achieve these goals. The holiday's seem like the worst time to start trying to lose weight, but I viewed it as a challenge and ended up losing close to 6 pounds before the new year. The losing streak continued for 5 weeks before I saw my first gain and the yo-yoing of my weight began again.
I may not be where I want to be weight-wise. I may not be where I want to be measurement-wise. But I'm making progress and I'm trying my best to focus on that instead of where I want to be. I need to stop looking at what I have left and look at what I've already done. I'm becoming a better version of myself and not because I weigh less or have smaller measurements but because I am seeing who I really am in the mirror and because I am holding my head up higher with each passing day. I am who I am, whether I weigh 181.4 or 160 (my current "goal weight") has no bearing on who I am as a person.
Workout Schedule:
March 2nd - March 8th
Sunday: long distance run- 5 miles did not complete (I did get in 3.5 miles though to make a total of 5.5 for the weekend), NMTZ challenge completed
Monday: streak completed, NMTZ challenge completed
Tuesday: streak completed
Wednesday: streak completed, NMTZ challenge completed
Thursday: streak completed, NMTZ challenge completed, gym completed
Friday: streak completed, NMTZ challenge did not complete
Saturday: streak completed
2. Find a better way to track water. Start small, 6 glasses a day: I did well with tracking up until the same time that I stopped focusing on tracking food. I was getting at least 6 glasses of water a day with some days being closer to and/or over 10 glasses. I stopped tracking though, so I don't actually know if I made it the whole week. Does anyone have a system they use that works?
3. Stick to workout schedule: I didn't quit stick to the schedule and have already stopped the NMTZ Challenge. What is wrong with me??? It's like I set myself up for failure when all I want is success.. I didn't get in the full 5 miles this weekend in one day because I had too many excuses not to. But I did get 2.04 miles on Saturday and 3.51 miles on Sunday. That counts, right?
4. Be self confident and own it: I have seen a tremendous difference in my self-confidence since starting to lose weight this time around. I have been focusing so much more on how I am feeling and less on what I weigh. I am also focusing on measuring success in different ways and not just based on the number on the scale. I have read too many articles (and experienced myself) about the scale being a liar and not the best tool to measure success or even progress. There are so many factors that can affect the scale one way or the other, and although it is a tool and can be helpful to reach certain goals, it's not the only tool and it doesn't tell the whole story.
The last few times I tried to lose weight I became obsessed with the scale and with seeing that number go down. It affected me to the point of questioning my self worth based on what the scale said. If I lost then I was able to do a happy dance and my whole life was validated because I saw success. If I gained then I would look at myself in the mirror and question everything. I honestly don't believe I saw the real me in the mirror, but a version of myself that was unacceptable in every possible way.
I decided for a while to put the scale away. To not care what I weighed and instead focus on how I feel. If I was hungry, I ate. Simple as that. I listened to my body and stopped eating when I was satisfied. Not full, not stuffed, satisfied. Unfortunately, this brought on more weight and although I was feeling better about myself for the first month or so it was showing that I was gaining weight and by the second month I was becoming frustrated with myself. My clothes wouldn't fit and it was affecting my marriage.
I don't know what happened or why it happened when it did, but in the middle of December I decided that I wanted to start the habit of tracking, portion control and making healthy choices overall. I was already in the middle of my running streak and had the daily exercise taken care of. At that point I was mainly focused on the eating. I had gained a lot of weight when I was training for my first marathon and since I had huge goals for 2014 and 2015, I wanted to get down to a healthier weight to make it easier to achieve these goals. The holiday's seem like the worst time to start trying to lose weight, but I viewed it as a challenge and ended up losing close to 6 pounds before the new year. The losing streak continued for 5 weeks before I saw my first gain and the yo-yoing of my weight began again.
March 2nd - March 8th
Sunday: long distance run- 5 miles did not complete (I did get in 3.5 miles though to make a total of 5.5 for the weekend), NMTZ challenge completed
Monday: streak completed, NMTZ challenge completed
Tuesday: streak completed
Wednesday: streak completed, NMTZ challenge completed
Thursday: streak completed, NMTZ challenge completed, gym completed
Friday: streak completed, NMTZ challenge did not complete
Saturday: streak completed
This weeks goals:
1. Track
2. Follow workout schedule
3. Do not go overboard at birthdays
1. Track
2. Follow workout schedule
3. Do not go overboard at birthdays
Workout schedule:
March 9th - March 15th
Sunday: San Diego Half Marathon
Monday: streak
Tuesday: streak
Wednesday: streak
Thursday (Patrick's birthday): streak
Friday (Isabel's birthday): streak
Saturday (Isabel's birthday party): Hope4Kids 5K
Get in two strength training sessions (using any DVD I choose) and one cross training session at the gym of a minimum of 30 minutes.
March 9th - March 15th
Sunday: San Diego Half Marathon
Monday: streak
Tuesday: streak
Wednesday: streak
Thursday (Patrick's birthday): streak
Friday (Isabel's birthday): streak
Saturday (Isabel's birthday party): Hope4Kids 5K
Get in two strength training sessions (using any DVD I choose) and one cross training session at the gym of a minimum of 30 minutes.
Measurements
Original measurements taken October 15th:
Chest: 41
Waist: 37.5
Hips: 45.5
L thigh: 26.5
L arm: 13
L calf: 14.5
Measurements taken February 22nd:
Chest: 39.25 (-1.75)
Waist: 33.25 (-4.25)
Hips: 43.25 (-2.25)
L thigh: 24 (-2.5)
L arm: 12.25 (-.75)
L arm: 12.25 (-.75)
Current measurements taken March 8th:
Chest: 40 (-1)
Waist: 33 (-4.5)
Hips: 43.5 (-2)
L thigh: 24 (-2.5)
L arm: 12.25 (-.75)
My measurements are pretty close to the same with the exception of gaining in my chest (what the heck is that all about?!) and losing in my waist. I knew they were going to plateau at some point and this may be a good time to switch to taking measurements monthly along with my progress picture and body fat %. I will probably take them again in two weeks and then start taking them monthly starting April 1st.
My measurements are pretty close to the same with the exception of gaining in my chest (what the heck is that all about?!) and losing in my waist. I knew they were going to plateau at some point and this may be a good time to switch to taking measurements monthly along with my progress picture and body fat %. I will probably take them again in two weeks and then start taking them monthly starting April 1st.
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