I started out at 220 lbs. I hated my body, had no energy, confidence and a real concern for my health and I'm getting older. The possibility of developing a serious health condition is looming in my brain. I want to be happy and healthy for my kids. I met a nutritionist and fitness enthusiast online and he put the bug in my ear.
Everybody Hates Exercise
I started to walk with the kids after finding a double stroller online. Next thing I knew I was walking five miles a day to a park 2.5 miles away plus play with my oldest. After three days of this my friend I mentioned above asked in the evening what I did physically that day and i told him it had been windy so the kids and I hadn't gotten out for a walk, he told me to do 50 squats! What a friend! I begrudgingly knocked them out though the whole time I had a defeatist attitude and though I'd never make it I finished! And it wasnt really that tough to my surprise. The next day I did 55 and started the squat challenge, add five every day and the fourth day is always rest. I joined a Facebook fitness group for support. A girl on there posted ' drop and give me 20' and I tried but only accomplished 5. The next day 7, the next 10, I'm up to 40 today and it's been a week. Everyday I've gotten in some sort of cardio, be it walking or jumping jacks, and muscle training, leg lifts, squats, push-ups, mountain climbers, butt kickers and more. I feel so strong. On Thursday I went to stay with my sister in law and family for a visit. She is in law enforcement and fit. She's been working me out! I tell her where I can't feel the burn and she knows just what to do. She randomly sees me sitting on the couch and makes me get up to do some kind of muscle training and she's eating clean with me. I found my fitness buddy.
When I started I would try to jog on my walks intermittently and could make it maybe a block...yesterday I ran...a lot, and it felt so so damn good. It's hot out finally and I went swimming for the first time in years yesterday as well.
The Perceived Enemy: Food
About half way through the week I watched a documentary called 'Hungry for Change'. I had tried clean eating years ago and was extremely happy with the results but had to give up on it and focus on my health because of another medical condition that required major surgery and I did not take care of myself for a while. My healthy eating succumbed to my families bad eating habits once again.
This film changed the way I look at food. I notice when I walk through a store now and see Ben and Jerry's all I think is how much garbage is sitting in that freezer, My brain automatically goes to what's in that and what makes it bad. Thank god for that film. I went to local farm stands that day and stocked up the kitchen with fresh local organic produce.
My diet (not 'diet', what I eat)
I've started clean eating. My definition of this is I eat real food, not things that are made to taste like food. I avoid processed foods and anything with aspartame or high fructose corn syrup. If its natural I eat it. I've reinforced the thought in my head that what I eat is fuel for my body, not a hobby. I don't go hungry because anytime I feel like eating I do! I have so many healthy choices around me so I never get bored with it. The food I'm eating tastes amazing. I always have loved fresh produce but I never realized the difference buying it from a local grower vs the grocery store made. The meat I buy is organic and the difference in quality is shocking. Oh, and of course, I drink a tooooon of water and a little milk everyday.
Other Nasty Habits
I've been a smoker since 2004 and half way through the week I purchased an e cig. It's not completely quitting but it is much much more healthy for me and the kids. I have t had a cigarette in five days. Go me!
Also I've allowed myself one vice that I refuse to get down on myself about, coffee creamer. I know it's loaded with sugar but for now it stays.
How I feel
My energy level has sky rocketed!!! I'm so excited to work out! In fact if I didn't get up and move I think a tick would set in. I feel strong, happy, confident, excited about being me for more reasons than having my girls, and it's been a while since I've felt that.
How I Look
My arms are getting more thin and I can see a little definition popping out on my bicep. My legs are loosing flab and my face is skinnier. My skin is clearing up. My tummy is getting smaller.
In conclusion, it's been an amazing week. I feel amazing, look better and I'm excited about life again. I have goals and drive for the first time in years!!!
Weight today, 208 lbs.
Down 12 in one week.
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