A girl in my Exercise group has a book called Lift Like a Man, Look Like a Goddess. It has a full weight loss plan with 6 weeks of work outs and diet plans, and it gives all the medical reasoning for the information there. Very cool. We have been switching off 2 of the workouts every other time we go, which is exactly what the book suggests. I like the workouts so much I wanted to post them here so I could do them on the days we do something else at the group, like this morning when we did a Jillian Michaels circuit training routine.
Workout A
There is supposed to be a 60 second break between each set, but that takes a long time, so we shorten it to 30 seconds unless we really need the rest.
Dead Lifts
2 sets of 15
2 sets of 12
3 sets of 10
3 sets of 8
Alternating Shoulder Press and Seated Rows
2 sets of 15
2 sets of 12
3 sets of 10
3 sets of 8
The seated rows is a machine workout, so we mimic it as best we can without the machine.
Alternating Lunges and Abdominal Workouts
2 sets of 15 lunges per leg and 8 Abs
2 sets of 12 lunges per leg and 10 Abs
3 sets of 10 lunges per leg and 12 Abs
3 sets of 8 lunges per leg and 15 Abs
We usually start with harder ab workouts on this one since there are fewer reps. We like to switch it up each time. There is a specific workout the books says to do, but we don't have the equipment for it, so we modifiy it for our needs.
Workout B
There is supposed to be a 60 second break between each set, but that takes a long time, so we shorten it to 30 seconds unless we really need the rest.
Squats- I like to do them with a hammer curl
2 sets of 15
2 sets of 12
3 sets of 10
3 sets of 8
Alternating Pushups and Seated Rows
2 sets of 15
2 sets of 12
3 sets of 10
3 sets of 8
I could only do the first set of 15 as regular pushups when I started. This last time I did all of them regular up until the last 2 sets of 8. I am getting stronger!
Alternating Step-Ups and Abdominals
2 sets of 15 step ups and 8 Abs
2 sets of 12 step ups and 10 Abs
3 sets of 10 step ups and 12 Abs
3 sets of 8 step upse and 15 Abs
We usually start with harder ab workouts on this one since there are fewer reps. We like to switch it up each time. There is a specific workout the books says to do, but we don't have the equipment for it, so we modifiy it for our needs.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Thursday, September 22, 2011
I'm Still Going
I have been working out like crazy, I just haven't been posting about it. I stopped the Hip Hop Abs these last couple of weeks because I just haven't had the time. I plan to start again on Monday and hopefully Ross will do it with me again.
I go to exercise group M W and F every week. I didn't go last week because of Emma's surgery, but other than that, I have been faithful. They work it hard! I love it!
I walk Sara to preschool on T and TH which is a mile. I walk Emma to and from school every day which is 3 miles (.75 from my house to the school.) I walk to and from church (which is .25 miles from my house) for Relief Society and church meetings. I walk to any other meetings or groups that I might have be it for my callings, Book Club, Bunco, Choir or anything else. Basically, I walk AT LEAST 3 miles a day, usually much more than that.
I do stretching at home every day to help my shoulder and my legs. A while back I slept funny and ended up with a terribly painful right shoulder. It hasn't felt right since. The days I stretch seem to make it better, so hopefully it will feel normal agan soon.
I won a Biggest Loser DVD at Bunco last month, and I plan to use that more often since it is full of 10 minute work outs. I tend to brush off the Hip Hop Abs workouts because they take 30 minutes and I don't always have the time. I KNOW I don't have to do the whole thing, but that is what I tell myself. 10 minutes, however, is totally doable!
Anyway- the point of this post is to say that I have been working out. I feel healther now than I have in a long time. I am eating better, drinking more water, and even on the days I don't do a formal workout, I am walking a 5K just with my normal mommy duties.
I haven't stepped on the scale in a while, so I don't know where I'm at there. Ross actually hid it from me because I was getting so upset with my lack of progress. It helped. He is a smart cookie, that guy!
I go to exercise group M W and F every week. I didn't go last week because of Emma's surgery, but other than that, I have been faithful. They work it hard! I love it!
I walk Sara to preschool on T and TH which is a mile. I walk Emma to and from school every day which is 3 miles (.75 from my house to the school.) I walk to and from church (which is .25 miles from my house) for Relief Society and church meetings. I walk to any other meetings or groups that I might have be it for my callings, Book Club, Bunco, Choir or anything else. Basically, I walk AT LEAST 3 miles a day, usually much more than that.
I do stretching at home every day to help my shoulder and my legs. A while back I slept funny and ended up with a terribly painful right shoulder. It hasn't felt right since. The days I stretch seem to make it better, so hopefully it will feel normal agan soon.
I won a Biggest Loser DVD at Bunco last month, and I plan to use that more often since it is full of 10 minute work outs. I tend to brush off the Hip Hop Abs workouts because they take 30 minutes and I don't always have the time. I KNOW I don't have to do the whole thing, but that is what I tell myself. 10 minutes, however, is totally doable!
Anyway- the point of this post is to say that I have been working out. I feel healther now than I have in a long time. I am eating better, drinking more water, and even on the days I don't do a formal workout, I am walking a 5K just with my normal mommy duties.
I haven't stepped on the scale in a while, so I don't know where I'm at there. Ross actually hid it from me because I was getting so upset with my lack of progress. It helped. He is a smart cookie, that guy!
Monday, August 8, 2011
August 8th - 14th
Monday
I did awesome today. I went to my RS exercise group, which was crazy hard today. I walked to the church and back to enter the VT report. I ran to the ward garden and back, pushing Emma on her little bike on the dirt road parts. We even went the long way home so that was about 4 miles. THEN, Ross and I started the Hip Hop Abs program by doing the first cardio workout. I am tired, but proud of myself.
Tuesday
The kids and I walked to my visiting teaching houses, and I had to carry Jack with me. Ross and I also did Day 2 of the Hip Hop Abs program. Good day! We ate healthy as well except for a few E.L. Fudge cookies that might have snuck in there.
Wednesday
I went to my RS exercise group, and it really pushed me again today. They are doing a weight training program which is something I haven't ever done before, so it is all new to me. I love it. They are so supportive and funny, and they all bring their kids so it keeps my kids entertained for the most part. I worked in the garden for a bit, but we drove over since I HAD to get home for SYTYCD.... Ross and I did Day 3 of the Hip Hop Abs program, and we had a healthy dinner. I slacked by taking the kids to McDonald's today for lunch, but Emma had a not fun Dr.'s appointment and she wanted a Happy Meal afterward. I couldn't resist her sweet, sad face. I feel good though.
I did awesome today. I went to my RS exercise group, which was crazy hard today. I walked to the church and back to enter the VT report. I ran to the ward garden and back, pushing Emma on her little bike on the dirt road parts. We even went the long way home so that was about 4 miles. THEN, Ross and I started the Hip Hop Abs program by doing the first cardio workout. I am tired, but proud of myself.
Tuesday
The kids and I walked to my visiting teaching houses, and I had to carry Jack with me. Ross and I also did Day 2 of the Hip Hop Abs program. Good day! We ate healthy as well except for a few E.L. Fudge cookies that might have snuck in there.
Wednesday
I went to my RS exercise group, and it really pushed me again today. They are doing a weight training program which is something I haven't ever done before, so it is all new to me. I love it. They are so supportive and funny, and they all bring their kids so it keeps my kids entertained for the most part. I worked in the garden for a bit, but we drove over since I HAD to get home for SYTYCD.... Ross and I did Day 3 of the Hip Hop Abs program, and we had a healthy dinner. I slacked by taking the kids to McDonald's today for lunch, but Emma had a not fun Dr.'s appointment and she wanted a Happy Meal afterward. I couldn't resist her sweet, sad face. I feel good though.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
AWESOME WEEK- With Hopefully Another to Come
So, I didn't lose any weight this last week- still at a solid 140. I might just toss the stupid scale. I hates it. BUT, I worked out every day this last week. Hard! I feel great, and my favorite jeans are fitting loser, and I am using a tighter notch on my belt. WOOT!
Monday, I did my weighted ball workout and went on a long walk with my girls.
Tuesday I ran to the ward garden and back (3.5 miles), walked to Book Club and back (.5 miles).
Wednesday I went to my RS exercise group and did the weighted ball workout and walked all over the dang place with my kiddos.
Thursday I ran to the garden and back, and even did a super long detour on the way home. I haven't clocked it, but I think it was almost 5 miles.
Friday I got my new Hip Hop Abs DVD in the mail. Yes, the one from the TV infomercial.... Ross and I did one of the cardio workouts and it was AWESOME!
Saturday we did another of the Hip Hop Abs cardio workouts. We mainly wanted to see what was in it. We also cleaned the house, did some yard work, and went coupon shopping. THEN we hosted a little dinner party at our house. We were DEAD tired when we went to bed that night.
Sunday we walked to church and back and I walked to choir and back.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
NEXT WEEK we hope to start the Hip Hop Abs system in earnest. Did you notice the plural usage there? Ross said he will try and do it with me. I am excited. It is super fun!
I also plan to join the exercise group every time they meet this next week, which will be MWF for a couple hours each.
Ross and I are the ward garden specialists so we will be out there watering and weeding at least 3 times. I plan to run there EVERY time. I might let Emma ride her bike and run next to her or let her run one way with me.
Since my scale hates me, I am working more towards losing inches. I have to do pictures and measurements to start the Hip Hop Abs program the way they suggest, so I think I will follow that more than the stupid scale that might just be broken and stuck on 140 forevermore.
I am also hoping to have more energy now that I am no longer nursing Jack. He is fully weaned now which means I have my body back! I usually drop a few pounds when I wean, so maybe that will take me below my 1freaking40 and kick start another losing streak. We'll see. Either way, I have a renewed sense of motivation and enthusiasm for working out and I plan to use that to my advantage while it lasts.
Monday, I did my weighted ball workout and went on a long walk with my girls.
Tuesday I ran to the ward garden and back (3.5 miles), walked to Book Club and back (.5 miles).
Wednesday I went to my RS exercise group and did the weighted ball workout and walked all over the dang place with my kiddos.
Thursday I ran to the garden and back, and even did a super long detour on the way home. I haven't clocked it, but I think it was almost 5 miles.
Friday I got my new Hip Hop Abs DVD in the mail. Yes, the one from the TV infomercial.... Ross and I did one of the cardio workouts and it was AWESOME!
Saturday we did another of the Hip Hop Abs cardio workouts. We mainly wanted to see what was in it. We also cleaned the house, did some yard work, and went coupon shopping. THEN we hosted a little dinner party at our house. We were DEAD tired when we went to bed that night.
Sunday we walked to church and back and I walked to choir and back.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
NEXT WEEK we hope to start the Hip Hop Abs system in earnest. Did you notice the plural usage there? Ross said he will try and do it with me. I am excited. It is super fun!
I also plan to join the exercise group every time they meet this next week, which will be MWF for a couple hours each.
Ross and I are the ward garden specialists so we will be out there watering and weeding at least 3 times. I plan to run there EVERY time. I might let Emma ride her bike and run next to her or let her run one way with me.
Since my scale hates me, I am working more towards losing inches. I have to do pictures and measurements to start the Hip Hop Abs program the way they suggest, so I think I will follow that more than the stupid scale that might just be broken and stuck on 140 forevermore.
I am also hoping to have more energy now that I am no longer nursing Jack. He is fully weaned now which means I have my body back! I usually drop a few pounds when I wean, so maybe that will take me below my 1freaking40 and kick start another losing streak. We'll see. Either way, I have a renewed sense of motivation and enthusiasm for working out and I plan to use that to my advantage while it lasts.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Summer Fun
I haven't posted, but I have been working out. A lot. I have been running to the ward garden and back about twice a week, which is about 5K- but not quite. I say I make up for it with all the work I do at the garden. I have also been walking all over the place when I get the chance. Twice now I have gone running while Emma is at her piano lessons when Ross has been home to watch the others. There have also been some weather and sprinkler related problems that necessitated some heavy lifting of wet carpet, boxes, furniture, and buckets of water. Ross bought a new bike, so we have tested that out. Emma and I ran a 4K at our ward activity, and she did awesome.
All in all it has been a very active few weeks which has shown not in a loss of weight as I am still stuck at 140 (although at a few points last week it dipped to 138 when I was sick) but in some rather loose pants, and in personal strength. I can run faster and longer without being weary- which, when I am not being all catty and materialistic, is really what this is all about. :)
Tonight we have a ward ativity at the ward garden, so I will be running there and back again. Maybe I will get Emma to try and run one of the legs with me....
All in all it has been a very active few weeks which has shown not in a loss of weight as I am still stuck at 140 (although at a few points last week it dipped to 138 when I was sick) but in some rather loose pants, and in personal strength. I can run faster and longer without being weary- which, when I am not being all catty and materialistic, is really what this is all about. :)
Tonight we have a ward ativity at the ward garden, so I will be running there and back again. Maybe I will get Emma to try and run one of the legs with me....
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Running and Gardening
We worked in the garden on Monday, and Tuesday. I ran 4 miles at the park on Monday to the ward garden on Tuesday before Bunco so that is a little more than a mile. I also laughed until my sides hurt at Bunco, so that probably counts for something.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
It Has Been a While...
I have been exercizing, but not as much or as hard. We had things like birthdays and vacations and recovering from vacations that got in the way. I am back though, and ready to continue losing this chub. I weighed in and found that through all the laziness, I ended up back at my good friend 140. Blegh. I stayed there for WEEKS last time. I have got to get back to the 130s this week! So, here we go again!
Monday, June 14
I ran 4 miles at the track near our house. Emma and Sara both ran 2 laps with me, and Emma rode her bike for 2 laps with me. It slowed me down to have them with me, but it was fun and I didn't mind. Ross got out there for a mile as well, and while I was running, he got a good workout playing basketball. Hopefully this will become a regular thing.
We ran again on Tuesday, worked in the garden on Wednesday and Friday, and I ran at the park on Saturday while Emma was at her piano lesson.
Monday, June 14
I ran 4 miles at the track near our house. Emma and Sara both ran 2 laps with me, and Emma rode her bike for 2 laps with me. It slowed me down to have them with me, but it was fun and I didn't mind. Ross got out there for a mile as well, and while I was running, he got a good workout playing basketball. Hopefully this will become a regular thing.
We ran again on Tuesday, worked in the garden on Wednesday and Friday, and I ran at the park on Saturday while Emma was at her piano lesson.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
A New Week
Monday 4/25
I ran a 5K in 31 minutes. I did 2.5 miles at 6.5 mph and then finished it out at 5 mph. It felt really good and natural. My shoulder was sore after that, but it wasn't as bad as I anticipated, so I will try again tomorrow.
Tuesday 4/26
I walked Emma to school, but it was snowing when it was time to pick her up, so I only walked half a mile. While Emma was at school I ran a 5K in 32 minutes. My shoulder started hurting really bad when I was done.
Wednesday 4/27
I was up all night with Jack last night. ALL Night. Ross and I got about 2 hours of sleep, so today my head is hurting and my shoulder is on FIRE. Ross even stayed home from work to try and help me, and to get some rest for himself. Because of all that, I didn't go running. We did walk to the library and back as a family so we got almost 2 miles walking in.
Thursday 4/28
My shoulder feels much better today. I ran 2.1 miles before Jack woke up from his nap. I hope to try and get that extra mile in when Jack either goes down for another nap, or Ross comes home
I ran a 5K in 31 minutes. I did 2.5 miles at 6.5 mph and then finished it out at 5 mph. It felt really good and natural. My shoulder was sore after that, but it wasn't as bad as I anticipated, so I will try again tomorrow.
Tuesday 4/26
I walked Emma to school, but it was snowing when it was time to pick her up, so I only walked half a mile. While Emma was at school I ran a 5K in 32 minutes. My shoulder started hurting really bad when I was done.
Wednesday 4/27
I was up all night with Jack last night. ALL Night. Ross and I got about 2 hours of sleep, so today my head is hurting and my shoulder is on FIRE. Ross even stayed home from work to try and help me, and to get some rest for himself. Because of all that, I didn't go running. We did walk to the library and back as a family so we got almost 2 miles walking in.
Thursday 4/28
My shoulder feels much better today. I ran 2.1 miles before Jack woke up from his nap. I hope to try and get that extra mile in when Jack either goes down for another nap, or Ross comes home
Monday, April 18, 2011
Back in the Saddle- 4/18 through 4/24
Monday 4/18
I am sick. I have a silly cold. I get one of these every time the barometric pressure shifts too quickly, which means I get at least one every time the seasons change. It is not terrible and I can function just fine but I feel achy and miserable. I was also very busy today. I had to catch up with some work and play with my kids, and I did most of that with Jack on my hip because he is not very chipper right now either and he refused to take a nap, which is usually the only time I can find to work out.
I kept trying to use all those things as excuses to skip my run today, but my conscience and my hatred of the unmoving scale won over and I ran that blasted 5k in 34 minutes. I feel gross now, my asthma hit hard and my chest is burning. My legs are all jelloy (its a word- trust me) and my head is fuzzy and hazy. Amidst all those negative feelings, however, I feel pretty proud of myself. I pushed through and hopefully got my exercise routine back on track after last week's patheticness.
Tuesday 4/19
I did my 5K in 34 minutes. I had to take a few ten second breathers in the last mile, but I did it. My asthma wasn't as bad today, so I hope that means this cold is on its way OUT.
Wednesday 4/20
I ran the 5K in 32 minutes with a very necessary potty break in the middle. I don't feel very good right now though. I think I pushed it too hard there at the end.
Thursday- Sunday
Thursday morning I woke up with a terrible pain in my shoulder. From some hunting on the internet and Ross rubbing it we have decided that my rotator cuff is pulled and maybe torn. I have been icing it and trying to take it easy because it really hurts a lot. That means no running happened for the tail end of the week.
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155
Last week I was at 140
This week I am at 139
I am so relieved to have gone down even with few workouts and an Easter holiday thrown in there!
I am sick. I have a silly cold. I get one of these every time the barometric pressure shifts too quickly, which means I get at least one every time the seasons change. It is not terrible and I can function just fine but I feel achy and miserable. I was also very busy today. I had to catch up with some work and play with my kids, and I did most of that with Jack on my hip because he is not very chipper right now either and he refused to take a nap, which is usually the only time I can find to work out.
I kept trying to use all those things as excuses to skip my run today, but my conscience and my hatred of the unmoving scale won over and I ran that blasted 5k in 34 minutes. I feel gross now, my asthma hit hard and my chest is burning. My legs are all jelloy (its a word- trust me) and my head is fuzzy and hazy. Amidst all those negative feelings, however, I feel pretty proud of myself. I pushed through and hopefully got my exercise routine back on track after last week's patheticness.
Tuesday 4/19
I did my 5K in 34 minutes. I had to take a few ten second breathers in the last mile, but I did it. My asthma wasn't as bad today, so I hope that means this cold is on its way OUT.
Wednesday 4/20
I ran the 5K in 32 minutes with a very necessary potty break in the middle. I don't feel very good right now though. I think I pushed it too hard there at the end.
Thursday- Sunday
Thursday morning I woke up with a terrible pain in my shoulder. From some hunting on the internet and Ross rubbing it we have decided that my rotator cuff is pulled and maybe torn. I have been icing it and trying to take it easy because it really hurts a lot. That means no running happened for the tail end of the week.
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155
Last week I was at 140
This week I am at 139
I am so relieved to have gone down even with few workouts and an Easter holiday thrown in there!
Sunday, April 17, 2011
BAD WEEK
I ran a 5k on Monday in 29 minutes. It was my fastest ever. And that is it. It was Spring Break so Emma didn't have school. I didn't go walking or anything. I just worked and played with my kids and cleaned my house. The good news is I didn't gain any weight. I am still at 140. The bad news is I enjoyed my time off of the treadmill, and it is taking some major pep-talking and motivating to get me ready to hit it hard again this next week. I have GOT to break through this silly plateau, and I am not going to do that with more weeks like this. I plan on doing a daily 5K again, and I already have healthy meals planned out for every night (except tomorrow night- we have a family night planned that includes In-N-Out and Harry Potter. . .). Here's to an active and healthy week, and hopefully some movement on the scale that hates me.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Work Out Record 4-4 Through 4-11
Monday 4/4
I ran a 5K in 36 minutes. Slower than normal, but just as sweaty. :)
Tuesday 4/5
I walked Emma to and from Pre-School and carried Sara most of the way so that was a mile.
I ran a 5K in 33 minutes while Emma was at school.
Wednesday 4/6
I walked Emma to her piano lesson (her teacher is going to Disney Land so we changed the day this week) and then took Sara to the park and then walked back to get Emma and go home. It was probably not a full mile but I'm sure it was close.
I ran a 5K in 34 minutes when Ross got home to watch the baby who refused to nap.
Thursday 4/7
I walked Emma to and from school carrying Sara in crazy wind. It was seriously crazy wind. It felt like resistance training almost. It was a mile.
I ran a 5K in 38 minutes while Emma was at school. I almost stopped after 2 miles. I was hurting. I even got ready for a shower when I decided to just finish off the last 1.1 miles. I'm glad I did.
Friday 4/8
I woke up with a migraine. I tried drinking water, stretching, eating, and taking some of my medication, but nothing would touch it. I even cancelled lunch with Emily because I didn't want to drive in the snow with this pain.
That doesn't really mean anything except that I still got on that blasted treadmill and did a 5K in 34 minutes while Jack was napping. My head still hurts, but it didn't get any worse, so that is something I would say.
Saturday 4/9
Ross and I walked around so much today that my feet were aching by the end of the day. I have no idea how far it was, but it ranged all through the mall, all through Costco, through 3 different Walgreens, around the Riverwoods and up and down the Marriott Center.
Sunday 4/10
I walked to and from Choir practice.
Ross and I went on a nice little walk with the kids. Probably about half a mile. Maybe more.
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155.
Last week I was at 140.
This week I am at 140.
No change. :(
I ran a 5K in 36 minutes. Slower than normal, but just as sweaty. :)
Tuesday 4/5
I walked Emma to and from Pre-School and carried Sara most of the way so that was a mile.
I ran a 5K in 33 minutes while Emma was at school.
Wednesday 4/6
I walked Emma to her piano lesson (her teacher is going to Disney Land so we changed the day this week) and then took Sara to the park and then walked back to get Emma and go home. It was probably not a full mile but I'm sure it was close.
I ran a 5K in 34 minutes when Ross got home to watch the baby who refused to nap.
Thursday 4/7
I walked Emma to and from school carrying Sara in crazy wind. It was seriously crazy wind. It felt like resistance training almost. It was a mile.
I ran a 5K in 38 minutes while Emma was at school. I almost stopped after 2 miles. I was hurting. I even got ready for a shower when I decided to just finish off the last 1.1 miles. I'm glad I did.
Friday 4/8
I woke up with a migraine. I tried drinking water, stretching, eating, and taking some of my medication, but nothing would touch it. I even cancelled lunch with Emily because I didn't want to drive in the snow with this pain.
That doesn't really mean anything except that I still got on that blasted treadmill and did a 5K in 34 minutes while Jack was napping. My head still hurts, but it didn't get any worse, so that is something I would say.
Saturday 4/9
Ross and I walked around so much today that my feet were aching by the end of the day. I have no idea how far it was, but it ranged all through the mall, all through Costco, through 3 different Walgreens, around the Riverwoods and up and down the Marriott Center.
Sunday 4/10
I walked to and from Choir practice.
Ross and I went on a nice little walk with the kids. Probably about half a mile. Maybe more.
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155.
Last week I was at 140.
This week I am at 140.
No change. :(
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Work Out Record 3-28 Through 4-4
Monday 3/28
I ran a 5K in 34 minutes.
Tuesday 3/29
I walked Emma to and from school. We also walked to a friend's house to drop off some things, and over to another friend's house to contribute to her scentsy order. I think in all we probably walked close to 2 miles since we took the long way home all three times.
While Emma was at pre-school, I ran 2 miles in 22 minutes. I couldn't get the last 1.1 miles in because Jack woke up from his nap earlier than I anticipated.
Wednesday 3/30
I played with the kids in the park behind our house. I didn't do any running or formal exercise. I was feeling tired and yucky.
Thursday 3/31
I walked Emma to and from her piano lessons and pre-school, so that is 1.5 miles. While Emma was at her piano lesson, Sara and I walked to a different park so we could have some fun together in the sun while Emma was at her lesson. I would say it added on at least another .5 mile.
I ran a 5K in 34 minutes while Emma was at pre-school.
Friday 4/1
This was Ross's day off, so we went shopping and did some fun walks with the kids. I have no idea how far we walked but my feet sure hurt!
Saturday 4/2
I didn't do anything. It was a lazy conference day.
Sunday 4/3
This was another lazy conference day- only I ate a whole lot of stuff today so it was even worse than yesterday. :(
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155
Last week I was at 140
This week I am at 140
No change- I blame it on my heavy eating low moving weekend. At least there was no gain. . .
I ran a 5K in 34 minutes.
Tuesday 3/29
I walked Emma to and from school. We also walked to a friend's house to drop off some things, and over to another friend's house to contribute to her scentsy order. I think in all we probably walked close to 2 miles since we took the long way home all three times.
While Emma was at pre-school, I ran 2 miles in 22 minutes. I couldn't get the last 1.1 miles in because Jack woke up from his nap earlier than I anticipated.
Wednesday 3/30
I played with the kids in the park behind our house. I didn't do any running or formal exercise. I was feeling tired and yucky.
Thursday 3/31
I walked Emma to and from her piano lessons and pre-school, so that is 1.5 miles. While Emma was at her piano lesson, Sara and I walked to a different park so we could have some fun together in the sun while Emma was at her lesson. I would say it added on at least another .5 mile.
I ran a 5K in 34 minutes while Emma was at pre-school.
Friday 4/1
This was Ross's day off, so we went shopping and did some fun walks with the kids. I have no idea how far we walked but my feet sure hurt!
Saturday 4/2
I didn't do anything. It was a lazy conference day.
Sunday 4/3
This was another lazy conference day- only I ate a whole lot of stuff today so it was even worse than yesterday. :(
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155
Last week I was at 140
This week I am at 140
No change- I blame it on my heavy eating low moving weekend. At least there was no gain. . .
Monday, March 21, 2011
Work-Out Record for 3-21 through 3-27
- Monday 3/21 I did a 5k in 30 minutes. The first mile was an 8 minute mile that almost killed me. After an emergency potty run, I did a 10 minute mile. Then I took a quick break to switch the Friends disc followed by a 12 minute mile that was a slow jog/ fast walk deal. It was a good run and I feel awesome and relaxed even though dinner was later than usual which means bedtime was later than usual. Oh well.
- Tuesday 3/22 I walked Emma to pre-school and back, so that is 1 mile. I ran 1 mile on teh treadmill.
- Wednesday 3/23 I didn't do anything today. I had a migraine all day due to lack of sleep. Jack is in a growth spurt or something right now, so I was up a lot feeding him.
- Thursday 3/24 I walked Emma to pre-school, and then took a detour over to a friends house to let her borrow our book club book, and then over to another friend's house to drop off some frozen meals for RS. The detour was probably a good half mile, which means I did a good mile. That was good since Emma's piano lesson was cancelled, and then I had to drive to pick her up because it was snowing. I did a fast walk for 2 miles on the treadmill.
- Friday 3/25 I ran a 5k on the treadmill switching around between 5 mph and 6 mph. My asthma was bugging me a lot, but I pushed through. Now I feel yucky. oh well.
- Saturday 3/26 I did some pushups and lunges with my girls while Ross was working an overtime shift.
- Sunday 3/27 I walked to and from choir. That is probably all I will do. I have a really bad headache again today. I plan to curl up and die/nap while Ross goes home teaching.
**Weigh In**
- I started the year at 155
- Last week I was at 142
- This week I am at 140.
2 pounds! Yay! I hope to do a 5k every day this next week, so hopefully it will be more than that next Sunday.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Work Out Record for 3-14 Through 30-20
Monday 3/14
I felt gross today and was literally busy from the moment I woke up to the moment I went to bed. I just had a lot going on- you know, the perfect storm of deadlines and children and church responsibilities.
Tuesday 3/15
I walked Emma to and from school, so that is a mile.
When Ross got home from work, we went on a 5 mile bike ride on the trail near our house. I had the trailer on my bike, so that hill was killer on me with 90 pounds of children weighing me down. It was fun, and I am SOOOOO glad the weather is allowing us to do those fun outdoor activities again.
Wednesday 3/16
I did 2 miles of fast walk/ slow running at 5 mph. I love that I can speed walk this now.
Thursday 3/17
I walked Emma to and from her pre-school and piano lessons, so that is 1.5 miles.
I ran 2 miles in 24 minutes on the treadmill.
Friday 3/18
Ross had the day off, so we spent the day playing and hitting up some good coupon deals in the area. We didn't do any real exercise, but there was a lot of walking and lifting.
Saturday 3/19
We did some Spring Cleaning in the basement and our closet. Lots of lifting and sorting.
I walked Emma to and from a birthday party. Her friend lives a few houses past her pre-school teacher, so it was at least 1 mile.
Ross and I did the 15 minute Ab workout together.
Sunday 3/20
I walked to and from choir practice. If the snow melts, I might make Ross go on a walk with me. If not, I will probably walk on the treadmill or do the P-90x yoga video or something.
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155.
Last Week I was at 144.
This Week I am at 143.
Actually, it is 142.5 or something, but I choose to round up. I have got to get past this 1 pound a week thing. I need to go farther than 2 miles. That is getting too comfortable for me, which is GREAT as it means I am getting stronger and my asthma is under control.
I felt gross today and was literally busy from the moment I woke up to the moment I went to bed. I just had a lot going on- you know, the perfect storm of deadlines and children and church responsibilities.
Tuesday 3/15
I walked Emma to and from school, so that is a mile.
When Ross got home from work, we went on a 5 mile bike ride on the trail near our house. I had the trailer on my bike, so that hill was killer on me with 90 pounds of children weighing me down. It was fun, and I am SOOOOO glad the weather is allowing us to do those fun outdoor activities again.
Wednesday 3/16
I did 2 miles of fast walk/ slow running at 5 mph. I love that I can speed walk this now.
Thursday 3/17
I walked Emma to and from her pre-school and piano lessons, so that is 1.5 miles.
I ran 2 miles in 24 minutes on the treadmill.
Friday 3/18
Ross had the day off, so we spent the day playing and hitting up some good coupon deals in the area. We didn't do any real exercise, but there was a lot of walking and lifting.
Saturday 3/19
We did some Spring Cleaning in the basement and our closet. Lots of lifting and sorting.
I walked Emma to and from a birthday party. Her friend lives a few houses past her pre-school teacher, so it was at least 1 mile.
Ross and I did the 15 minute Ab workout together.
Sunday 3/20
I walked to and from choir practice. If the snow melts, I might make Ross go on a walk with me. If not, I will probably walk on the treadmill or do the P-90x yoga video or something.
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155.
Last Week I was at 144.
This Week I am at 143.
Actually, it is 142.5 or something, but I choose to round up. I have got to get past this 1 pound a week thing. I need to go farther than 2 miles. That is getting too comfortable for me, which is GREAT as it means I am getting stronger and my asthma is under control.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Work-Out Record for 3-07 Through 3-13
Monday 3/7
I ran 2.25 miles in 23 minutes. It was one 8 minute mile, and the next 1.25 miles took 15 minutes. I went up and down from 4.5 to 6. It wasn't consistent as I was trying to keep my asthma down. The fast mile at the beginning brought it on, so I tried to push myself without letting it get too bad.
Tuesday 3/8
Emma's pre-school was cancelled, so when we would have normally walked her over, I ran 2.1 miles in 23 minutes. I did a 8.5 minute mile, and the rest at 4.8, which I can now fast walk at. :) I think we will try to go for a family walk or bike ride later as I have some VT routes to deliver and it is such a pretty day outside. If not, I will do my soft weight ball workout or something.
I should stop saying what I hope to do on here, as that always seems to bring on sick children or bad weather, or other such distractions. We didn't do a family walk, but Ross and I did get a short ab and aerboic workout in. The one Ross chose was only aout 15 minutes, but it was pretty intense, and I am feeling it!
Wednesday 3/9
I ran 2.5 miles in lap lengths at 7mph. I had to do quick bursts because my baby refused to nap. It is easier to sneak away 2 minutes at a time rather than take a full 25ish when I have a little shadow who wants me attention and/or food source at all times.
Thursday 3/10
I walked Emma to her piano lesson and back, and then to her pre-school and back. I also made a detour to return some items to a woman in my ward. I'm not sure how much the detour added, but I know it was at least 1.5 miles without it.
I walked to the RS president's house, to the church, back to the RS President's house, and then home. I had to get the church keys and post the VT report. That added at least another half mile, most of that holding Sara.
Friday 3/11
I ran 2 miles in 24 minutes.
Saturday 3/12
I was sick today, so I didn't get anything done exercise-wise.
Sunday 3/13
I haven't done anything yet except walk to choir and back. I hope to get Ross and the kids out for a walk in this glorious weather, but now that I wrote it here, someone will get sick and a storm will roll in. . .
We actually did get outside for a good stroll today. We went over to a nearby park and did a lap of the running loop there. We probably only went about 2/3 of a mile in all, but it was a good little outing.
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155.
Last week I was at 145.
This week I am at 144.
One more pound down. I'll take it. I am going to try and shoot for at least 2 next week.
I ran 2.25 miles in 23 minutes. It was one 8 minute mile, and the next 1.25 miles took 15 minutes. I went up and down from 4.5 to 6. It wasn't consistent as I was trying to keep my asthma down. The fast mile at the beginning brought it on, so I tried to push myself without letting it get too bad.
Tuesday 3/8
Emma's pre-school was cancelled, so when we would have normally walked her over, I ran 2.1 miles in 23 minutes. I did a 8.5 minute mile, and the rest at 4.8, which I can now fast walk at. :) I think we will try to go for a family walk or bike ride later as I have some VT routes to deliver and it is such a pretty day outside. If not, I will do my soft weight ball workout or something.
I should stop saying what I hope to do on here, as that always seems to bring on sick children or bad weather, or other such distractions. We didn't do a family walk, but Ross and I did get a short ab and aerboic workout in. The one Ross chose was only aout 15 minutes, but it was pretty intense, and I am feeling it!
Wednesday 3/9
I ran 2.5 miles in lap lengths at 7mph. I had to do quick bursts because my baby refused to nap. It is easier to sneak away 2 minutes at a time rather than take a full 25ish when I have a little shadow who wants me attention and/or food source at all times.
Thursday 3/10
I walked Emma to her piano lesson and back, and then to her pre-school and back. I also made a detour to return some items to a woman in my ward. I'm not sure how much the detour added, but I know it was at least 1.5 miles without it.
I walked to the RS president's house, to the church, back to the RS President's house, and then home. I had to get the church keys and post the VT report. That added at least another half mile, most of that holding Sara.
Friday 3/11
I ran 2 miles in 24 minutes.
Saturday 3/12
I was sick today, so I didn't get anything done exercise-wise.
Sunday 3/13
I haven't done anything yet except walk to choir and back. I hope to get Ross and the kids out for a walk in this glorious weather, but now that I wrote it here, someone will get sick and a storm will roll in. . .
We actually did get outside for a good stroll today. We went over to a nearby park and did a lap of the running loop there. We probably only went about 2/3 of a mile in all, but it was a good little outing.
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155.
Last week I was at 145.
This week I am at 144.
One more pound down. I'll take it. I am going to try and shoot for at least 2 next week.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Work Out Record 2-28 through 3-6
Monday 2/28
I ran 1 mile at 6.3 mph. I had to take 2 10 second breaks when my asthma started acting up. I then did a fast walk/ slow jog at 4.8 for another 1.1 miles.
We walked as a family to my friends house so I could drop something off. It is just past Emma's pre-school teacher's house, so I know the walk was at least half a mile.
Tuesday 3/1
I walked Emma to and from school. 1 mile. That's it. Lazy Mama day, I guess.
Wednesday 3/2
I didn't do anything today. I didn't feel good, but that is a lame excuse. I have run far when feeling much worse.
Thursday 3/3
I walked Emma to and from her piano lesson and to pre-school. I would have walked her home as well, but it started pouring right when we were about to leave. That makes 1.5 miles walking- most of that carrying Sara.
I ran 2.1 miles in 22 minutes.
Ross has tomorrow off, so I am hoping to ride my bike if the sun makes an appearance at some point.
Friday 3/4
We left the house at 11:30 and didn't get back until after midnight. I didn't work out, but I sure as heck did a lot of walking and a lot of clapping and a lot of carrying children.
Saturday 3/5
I ran 4.2 miles. I was trying to make up for the days I have missed this week. I did an 8 minute mile followed by a 12 minute fast walking mile followed by a 10 minute mile followed by a 15 minute walking mile. I feel awesome. It was a good little workout.
Sunday 3/6
I walked to choir and back, but I took the short cut so it was probably less than 1/3 of a mile. We wanted to walk to church, but it was all rainy.
I went 2 miles on the treadmill. One mile at 7 mph, and the other at a fast walk/slow jog at 4.6 mph.
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155
Last week I was at 146
This week I am at 145
1 more pound down. That means I have 20 left till my goal. At this rate it will only take me 5 months to get there. . . :(
Aside from my issue with the scale, I feel really good. My clothes fit better, I am noticing more toned muscle mass and less jiggling in my legs and arms (which could be the problem with the scale), and I know I am getting stronger as I can run faster and longer without my asthma kicking in. I am also able to fast walk at paces that I could only run at when I first started. Moral of the story is, I feel good, and I hope to feel better by continuing to push myself and find time for working out.
I ran 1 mile at 6.3 mph. I had to take 2 10 second breaks when my asthma started acting up. I then did a fast walk/ slow jog at 4.8 for another 1.1 miles.
We walked as a family to my friends house so I could drop something off. It is just past Emma's pre-school teacher's house, so I know the walk was at least half a mile.
Tuesday 3/1
I walked Emma to and from school. 1 mile. That's it. Lazy Mama day, I guess.
Wednesday 3/2
I didn't do anything today. I didn't feel good, but that is a lame excuse. I have run far when feeling much worse.
Thursday 3/3
I walked Emma to and from her piano lesson and to pre-school. I would have walked her home as well, but it started pouring right when we were about to leave. That makes 1.5 miles walking- most of that carrying Sara.
I ran 2.1 miles in 22 minutes.
Ross has tomorrow off, so I am hoping to ride my bike if the sun makes an appearance at some point.
Friday 3/4
We left the house at 11:30 and didn't get back until after midnight. I didn't work out, but I sure as heck did a lot of walking and a lot of clapping and a lot of carrying children.
Saturday 3/5
I ran 4.2 miles. I was trying to make up for the days I have missed this week. I did an 8 minute mile followed by a 12 minute fast walking mile followed by a 10 minute mile followed by a 15 minute walking mile. I feel awesome. It was a good little workout.
Sunday 3/6
I walked to choir and back, but I took the short cut so it was probably less than 1/3 of a mile. We wanted to walk to church, but it was all rainy.
I went 2 miles on the treadmill. One mile at 7 mph, and the other at a fast walk/slow jog at 4.6 mph.
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155
Last week I was at 146
This week I am at 145
1 more pound down. That means I have 20 left till my goal. At this rate it will only take me 5 months to get there. . . :(
Aside from my issue with the scale, I feel really good. My clothes fit better, I am noticing more toned muscle mass and less jiggling in my legs and arms (which could be the problem with the scale), and I know I am getting stronger as I can run faster and longer without my asthma kicking in. I am also able to fast walk at paces that I could only run at when I first started. Moral of the story is, I feel good, and I hope to feel better by continuing to push myself and find time for working out.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Work-Out Record 2-21 through 2-27
Monday 2/21
I started at 6.3 mph and moved it down .1 mph every minute. It gave me a 10 minute mile followed by a 12 minute mile.
Also, last night I was still hurting on my left shoulder from sleeping weird while holding Jack, so I did the X-Stretch disc from the P-90x program.
Tonight when we got home from the store, Ross did the plyometrics video from the p-90x program. I joined after the first 20 minutes when I got the kids all happy and entertained. Even missing the first third- it was pretty intense, and I can tell my legs are gonna be burning tomorrow!
Tuesday 2/22
I ran 2.25 miles at 6.3 mph. I did it in lap lengths with quick breaks in between.
I walked Emma to and from pre-school, so that is 1 mile of walking outside.
Wednesday 2/23
Ross and I did the Kenpo disc from the P-90x program.
Thursday 2/24
Last week I got this 2 lb soft weight ball set and it came with a workout dvd.
I did 20 minutes of the dvd. I am not sure how long it goes- Ross made me stop so he could watch the Big Bang Theory. . . In all honesty, I was dying by the time he stopped me. I was ready to stop. It worked all kinds of muscles that are now mad at me.
Friday 2/25
I started at 6.4 mph and moved down .1 mph every minute or so. I wasn't as exact today. I did 2.1 miles in 21 minutes.
I did the full soft weight ball disc. I was just curious how long it went. Turns out it is only 25 minutes, so I only missed the last 5 minutes. It is such a good workout. I love it. I don't think it is meant for back to back workouts though. I will definitely space it out a day or two next time.
Saturday 2/26
I have a dvd with 5 10 minute yoga workouts on it. I did 3 of them when I got home from a full day of partying for Emma's birthday tomorrow.
Sunday 2/27
I walked 2 miles at 4.7 mph
**Weigh In**
At the beginning of the year I was at 155.
Last week I was at 146.
This week I am at 146.
No change. :( I think I need to just stick to running. I like the other workouts and they give me variety- but running is really what sheds the weight for me. I need to focus on that first, and add to it rather than the other way around.
I started at 6.3 mph and moved it down .1 mph every minute. It gave me a 10 minute mile followed by a 12 minute mile.
Also, last night I was still hurting on my left shoulder from sleeping weird while holding Jack, so I did the X-Stretch disc from the P-90x program.
Tonight when we got home from the store, Ross did the plyometrics video from the p-90x program. I joined after the first 20 minutes when I got the kids all happy and entertained. Even missing the first third- it was pretty intense, and I can tell my legs are gonna be burning tomorrow!
Tuesday 2/22
I ran 2.25 miles at 6.3 mph. I did it in lap lengths with quick breaks in between.
I walked Emma to and from pre-school, so that is 1 mile of walking outside.
Wednesday 2/23
Ross and I did the Kenpo disc from the P-90x program.
Thursday 2/24
Last week I got this 2 lb soft weight ball set and it came with a workout dvd.
I did 20 minutes of the dvd. I am not sure how long it goes- Ross made me stop so he could watch the Big Bang Theory. . . In all honesty, I was dying by the time he stopped me. I was ready to stop. It worked all kinds of muscles that are now mad at me.Friday 2/25
I started at 6.4 mph and moved down .1 mph every minute or so. I wasn't as exact today. I did 2.1 miles in 21 minutes.
I did the full soft weight ball disc. I was just curious how long it went. Turns out it is only 25 minutes, so I only missed the last 5 minutes. It is such a good workout. I love it. I don't think it is meant for back to back workouts though. I will definitely space it out a day or two next time.
Saturday 2/26
I have a dvd with 5 10 minute yoga workouts on it. I did 3 of them when I got home from a full day of partying for Emma's birthday tomorrow.
Sunday 2/27
I walked 2 miles at 4.7 mph
**Weigh In**
At the beginning of the year I was at 155.
Last week I was at 146.
This week I am at 146.
No change. :( I think I need to just stick to running. I like the other workouts and they give me variety- but running is really what sheds the weight for me. I need to focus on that first, and add to it rather than the other way around.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
My Take on Dieting
Whenever people find out I am working on losing weight, I get two responses. The first is of good wishes and encouragement, and the second is a question as to what diet I am following. Most people are surprised at my response.
I don't diet. Ever. I don't believe in diets.
I don't want to offend anyone who has found success in following diets, or who are working to follow a particular eating plan. I think it is great for anyone to try and make healthier lifestyle choices, and to try and change bad habits. Eating copious amounts of unhealthy food is definitely a bad habit that should be curbed.
The truth is, though, I don't believe in diets. I don't think they work. I think they can make temporary changes in a body's build and size- but those changes only ever last as long as the diet does, and I have yet to meet anyone on a diet who plans to stay on that diet forever.
Furthermore, I find the idea of dieting rather unhealthy. That might sound strange, but hear me out.
Food is a good thing. It is nutritious and delicious, and a way to bring people together and share experiences. I hate when people say food should be used only for nutritional purposes. I am certain that is not true nor what God intended.
I think there is a huge problem in having to quanitfy and evaluate every item you put inro your body. I don't see how anyone can be happy while tracking calories, filling out charts, and making eating a chore or a guilty pleasure.
There is a woman in my ward who swears by Weight Watchers- and she looks great. Really, she is stunning. She talks about it constantly and is like a walking advertisement for the program. That is very persuasive until you watch her habits. She carries around a tally card to mark down everything she consumes. At ward parties she talks about denying herself food all day so she can splurge on the goodies without going over her allotment for the day. Calories and points are on her mind all day every day. I doubt that she has just taken a bite of anything just to enjoy the beauty of well made food in years without first calculating the ingredients and point value of it.
All of that is enough to discourage me from such a practice, but add to that the fact that her daughters have taken on the sam habits, and it just disgusts me. At a primary activity, I heard her 10 year old daughter say that she never drank rootbeer because of all the calories in it, and that she wouldn't be able to eat lunch if she had her share of cookies at the event because it would use up all her points. 10 years old, and she can't enjoy a cookie. Not cool.
When I started looking into losing weight and exercising, I did my fair share of research on the subject. Reading about all the new (and old) diets just worked to reinforce my negative views about diets. Low Carb, Weight watchers, Nutrisystem, HCG, The Zone, all of them were based on self denial. You constantly DENY yourself things you want. This sends a message to your brain and body that there are things you want that you can't have. I don't know about you, but the minute I tell myself I can't have a piece of cake, all I want is a giant piece of cake. The second I say I am no longer going to drink carbonation, all I want is a 2 liter of Dr. Pepper all to myself.
Our bodies don't like be denied things- especially things it really wants. When you start that process of denial, the body generally responds by going into pseudo-starvation mode. It makes you feel hungrier than you are, and holds onto calories it doesn't really need. That is not healthy or useful or conducive to healthy habits or attitudes.
So, back to the original question- what diet am I using?
While I am not dieting, I have taken on a new habit concerning my eating habits that has made a huge difference for me. I think my body is super smart and it knows what it needs to do, and what it needs to have for it to accomplish all of those things it has to do. So, before I eat anything, I ask my body if it wants that.
I know that sounds weird, but think about it. How many times have you gorged yourself on food you thought you wanted only to feel sick, bloated, and regretful afterwards? How many times have you worked to clean your plate and ended up wishing you had just stopped when you first felt full?
Right now, I let my body tell me what it wants, and it does a pretty good job. I let it tell me when it is full, and I stop. When I have a choice between water and soda, I ask what will I enjoy most. Ususally it is water. Usually I choose not to eat a large portion of chips, cookies, or other unhealthy items not because I am dieting and am trying to keep from going over my calorie limit, but because when I really think about it, it doesn't sound good. I don't feel like I am denying myself anything, so I don't feel unhappy about any choices I make. I feel great!
I only have cake when cake sounds good, and surprisingly, steamed broccoli ends up sounding good a lot more often than cake when I ask my body about it, and when I do eat cake, I don't ever regret it, because it was something my body really wanted.
Please don't think I'm crazy. I'm not crazy- I'm just happy to be eating what I want to eat when I want to eat it, and am still losing weight and inches on a regular basis.
I don't diet. Ever. I don't believe in diets.
I don't want to offend anyone who has found success in following diets, or who are working to follow a particular eating plan. I think it is great for anyone to try and make healthier lifestyle choices, and to try and change bad habits. Eating copious amounts of unhealthy food is definitely a bad habit that should be curbed.
The truth is, though, I don't believe in diets. I don't think they work. I think they can make temporary changes in a body's build and size- but those changes only ever last as long as the diet does, and I have yet to meet anyone on a diet who plans to stay on that diet forever.
Furthermore, I find the idea of dieting rather unhealthy. That might sound strange, but hear me out.
Food is a good thing. It is nutritious and delicious, and a way to bring people together and share experiences. I hate when people say food should be used only for nutritional purposes. I am certain that is not true nor what God intended.
I think there is a huge problem in having to quanitfy and evaluate every item you put inro your body. I don't see how anyone can be happy while tracking calories, filling out charts, and making eating a chore or a guilty pleasure.
There is a woman in my ward who swears by Weight Watchers- and she looks great. Really, she is stunning. She talks about it constantly and is like a walking advertisement for the program. That is very persuasive until you watch her habits. She carries around a tally card to mark down everything she consumes. At ward parties she talks about denying herself food all day so she can splurge on the goodies without going over her allotment for the day. Calories and points are on her mind all day every day. I doubt that she has just taken a bite of anything just to enjoy the beauty of well made food in years without first calculating the ingredients and point value of it.
All of that is enough to discourage me from such a practice, but add to that the fact that her daughters have taken on the sam habits, and it just disgusts me. At a primary activity, I heard her 10 year old daughter say that she never drank rootbeer because of all the calories in it, and that she wouldn't be able to eat lunch if she had her share of cookies at the event because it would use up all her points. 10 years old, and she can't enjoy a cookie. Not cool.
When I started looking into losing weight and exercising, I did my fair share of research on the subject. Reading about all the new (and old) diets just worked to reinforce my negative views about diets. Low Carb, Weight watchers, Nutrisystem, HCG, The Zone, all of them were based on self denial. You constantly DENY yourself things you want. This sends a message to your brain and body that there are things you want that you can't have. I don't know about you, but the minute I tell myself I can't have a piece of cake, all I want is a giant piece of cake. The second I say I am no longer going to drink carbonation, all I want is a 2 liter of Dr. Pepper all to myself.
Our bodies don't like be denied things- especially things it really wants. When you start that process of denial, the body generally responds by going into pseudo-starvation mode. It makes you feel hungrier than you are, and holds onto calories it doesn't really need. That is not healthy or useful or conducive to healthy habits or attitudes.
So, back to the original question- what diet am I using?
While I am not dieting, I have taken on a new habit concerning my eating habits that has made a huge difference for me. I think my body is super smart and it knows what it needs to do, and what it needs to have for it to accomplish all of those things it has to do. So, before I eat anything, I ask my body if it wants that.
I know that sounds weird, but think about it. How many times have you gorged yourself on food you thought you wanted only to feel sick, bloated, and regretful afterwards? How many times have you worked to clean your plate and ended up wishing you had just stopped when you first felt full?
Right now, I let my body tell me what it wants, and it does a pretty good job. I let it tell me when it is full, and I stop. When I have a choice between water and soda, I ask what will I enjoy most. Ususally it is water. Usually I choose not to eat a large portion of chips, cookies, or other unhealthy items not because I am dieting and am trying to keep from going over my calorie limit, but because when I really think about it, it doesn't sound good. I don't feel like I am denying myself anything, so I don't feel unhappy about any choices I make. I feel great!
I only have cake when cake sounds good, and surprisingly, steamed broccoli ends up sounding good a lot more often than cake when I ask my body about it, and when I do eat cake, I don't ever regret it, because it was something my body really wanted.
Please don't think I'm crazy. I'm not crazy- I'm just happy to be eating what I want to eat when I want to eat it, and am still losing weight and inches on a regular basis.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Work-Out Record 2-14 through 2-20
Monday 2/14
I didn't run today. It was Valentine's Day, so Ross and I wanted to spend our free time together isntead of tag teaming the kids and treadmill. I will do double tomorrow to make up for it.
Tuesday 2/15
I walked with my kids to Emma's pre-school and back twice (to drop her off and pick her up). We clocked it when she first started there, and it is a little over .25 miles there, so the double round trip makes for a mile of walking. That's all I did. Lame, I know- but better than nothing.
Wednesday 2/16
Emma was sick today, so I didn't get to walk her to pre-school and get that mile in. I kicked my butt on the treadmill though. I started at 6mph and stayed there for 5 minutes, and then went down .1 mph every minute after that. I hit 2.2 miles. I felt it too.
Thursday 2/17
I did the same thing as yesterday. It felt better today. I got the run in during Jack's nap so that if I have time to run tonight, I can make up for one of the 2 days when I didn't work out. I have a lesson to give in RS tonight though, so that might not happen.
OK I didn't run again, but I did walk to and from my church, and I took the long way home, so that is about .6 miles of walking. Ant it was cold. And I had a skirt on. Shivering burns calories, right?
Friday 2/18
I ran a full mile at 6 mph. 10 minute mile! I then alternated speed walking at 4.5 mph and slow jogging at 5 mph because my asthma was acting up. I got to 2.1 miles in 23 minutes.
Earlier in the day I walked around the block twice to try and return a borrowed book to a friend, so that is about .5 miles. Maybe a little more. I know these walking distances are nothing really, but I hope that as it starts to get warmer, I can get in the habit of walking or biking a mile or more with my family every day and then running on the treadmill as well.
Saturday 2/19
I didn't work out today. Ross and I were lazy all day.
Sunday 2/20
I walked 1.7 miles at 4.5. I moved the incline up to the highest in the first 5 minutes, and down slowly over the next 15.
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155.
Last week I was at 147.
This week I am at 146.
1 more pound. Looks like the trend is sticking.
I didn't run today. It was Valentine's Day, so Ross and I wanted to spend our free time together isntead of tag teaming the kids and treadmill. I will do double tomorrow to make up for it.
Tuesday 2/15
I walked with my kids to Emma's pre-school and back twice (to drop her off and pick her up). We clocked it when she first started there, and it is a little over .25 miles there, so the double round trip makes for a mile of walking. That's all I did. Lame, I know- but better than nothing.
Wednesday 2/16
Emma was sick today, so I didn't get to walk her to pre-school and get that mile in. I kicked my butt on the treadmill though. I started at 6mph and stayed there for 5 minutes, and then went down .1 mph every minute after that. I hit 2.2 miles. I felt it too.
Thursday 2/17
I did the same thing as yesterday. It felt better today. I got the run in during Jack's nap so that if I have time to run tonight, I can make up for one of the 2 days when I didn't work out. I have a lesson to give in RS tonight though, so that might not happen.
OK I didn't run again, but I did walk to and from my church, and I took the long way home, so that is about .6 miles of walking. Ant it was cold. And I had a skirt on. Shivering burns calories, right?
Friday 2/18
I ran a full mile at 6 mph. 10 minute mile! I then alternated speed walking at 4.5 mph and slow jogging at 5 mph because my asthma was acting up. I got to 2.1 miles in 23 minutes.
Earlier in the day I walked around the block twice to try and return a borrowed book to a friend, so that is about .5 miles. Maybe a little more. I know these walking distances are nothing really, but I hope that as it starts to get warmer, I can get in the habit of walking or biking a mile or more with my family every day and then running on the treadmill as well.
Saturday 2/19
I didn't work out today. Ross and I were lazy all day.
Sunday 2/20
I walked 1.7 miles at 4.5. I moved the incline up to the highest in the first 5 minutes, and down slowly over the next 15.
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155.
Last week I was at 147.
This week I am at 146.
1 more pound. Looks like the trend is sticking.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Work-Out Record 2-07 through 2-13
Monday 2/07
I walked 1.6 miles at 4.5 mph. I slowly moved the incline up to its maximum and then back down over the course of 20 mintues, so it was like walking up and back down a large hill.
Tuesday 2/08
I ran 1 mile at 6 mph!! A 10 minute mile! My motivation was that we got home late from the grocery store, and we wanted to watch a redbox movie we had rented, but I didn't want to miss a day of working out, so I just cranked it up and asked Ross to wait 10 minutes for me. I was wheezing the rest of the night thanks to my asthma, so it probably wasn't the smartest idea, but I felt good knowing I could do it. I will go back down a few notches tomorrow.
Wednesday 2/09
I did things a bit differently today. I started out at 6 mph and then lowered the speed .1 every minute. Just so you know, this makes for an 11 minute mile, and then the next .8 miles will take another 11 minutes, but a lot of that will be walking. It was a great workout and I really felt the burn by the end. I think I will do it again tomorrow, but I will stay a bit longer on the 6 mph setting to try and get a full 2 miles in. I just needed .2 more to get it to 2 miles in 22 minutes.
Thursday 2/10
I did the same thing as yesterday, except that I stayed at the 6 mph setting for 3 minutes so I could log a full 2 miles in 22 minutes. I like the way I feel after this kind of running, so I think I will keep at it, but will up the time I spend in the higher speeds as I get stronger. I need to get back into the pushups and situps as well. I have been lazy about those lately.
Friday 2/11
I tried to run farther on the 6mph setting without kicking up my asthma by doing it in lap lengths. I alternated between 6mph and 4.5 mph at intervals of
.25 miles until I hit 1.75 miles. I didn't like it as much as I thought I would. I think it is because I had to focus on the distance so much so I didn't just get lost in my show and forget about the running.
Saturday 2/12
I tried the lap thing again today but I only had time to do 1.25 miles. My family and I also walked around the ward delivering new VT routes and we walked to the church and back for family photos so that comes out to about 1.25 miles as well.
Sunday 2/13
I walked 1.5 miles as 4.5mph
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155
Last week I was at 148
This week I am at 147
Another pound down. Not bad!
I walked 1.6 miles at 4.5 mph. I slowly moved the incline up to its maximum and then back down over the course of 20 mintues, so it was like walking up and back down a large hill.
Tuesday 2/08
I ran 1 mile at 6 mph!! A 10 minute mile! My motivation was that we got home late from the grocery store, and we wanted to watch a redbox movie we had rented, but I didn't want to miss a day of working out, so I just cranked it up and asked Ross to wait 10 minutes for me. I was wheezing the rest of the night thanks to my asthma, so it probably wasn't the smartest idea, but I felt good knowing I could do it. I will go back down a few notches tomorrow.
Wednesday 2/09
I did things a bit differently today. I started out at 6 mph and then lowered the speed .1 every minute. Just so you know, this makes for an 11 minute mile, and then the next .8 miles will take another 11 minutes, but a lot of that will be walking. It was a great workout and I really felt the burn by the end. I think I will do it again tomorrow, but I will stay a bit longer on the 6 mph setting to try and get a full 2 miles in. I just needed .2 more to get it to 2 miles in 22 minutes.
Thursday 2/10
I did the same thing as yesterday, except that I stayed at the 6 mph setting for 3 minutes so I could log a full 2 miles in 22 minutes. I like the way I feel after this kind of running, so I think I will keep at it, but will up the time I spend in the higher speeds as I get stronger. I need to get back into the pushups and situps as well. I have been lazy about those lately.
Friday 2/11
I tried to run farther on the 6mph setting without kicking up my asthma by doing it in lap lengths. I alternated between 6mph and 4.5 mph at intervals of
.25 miles until I hit 1.75 miles. I didn't like it as much as I thought I would. I think it is because I had to focus on the distance so much so I didn't just get lost in my show and forget about the running.
Saturday 2/12
I tried the lap thing again today but I only had time to do 1.25 miles. My family and I also walked around the ward delivering new VT routes and we walked to the church and back for family photos so that comes out to about 1.25 miles as well.
Sunday 2/13
I walked 1.5 miles as 4.5mph
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155
Last week I was at 148
This week I am at 147
Another pound down. Not bad!
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Work-Out Record 1-31 through 2-06
Monday 1/31
I didn't work out today. I am sick and have been hacking up a lung all day. I was still going to try and walk on the treadmill, but around noon my fever spiked and I felt my energy completely drain out of me. I tried to eat healthy, and I will attempt to work-out twice tomorrow depending on how I feel.
Tuesday 2/01
I am still coughing like crazy, but my fever broke last night which relieved my headache, so I feel MUCH better. I just walked 1.8 miles at 4.5mph. I couldn't go faster than that without my asthma coming out. I think my cold is making it stronger than normal. Since I can't run and sweat as hard right now, I am really concentrating on eating better and I still plan to try walking again if the baby goes down for another nap so I can make up for missing yesterday's work-out.
Wednesday 2/02
I am so sick. I went to the doctor and found that I had 102 degree fever and a sinus infection that caused a post nasal drip that went and caused a nice little case of pneumonia. Yuck. That is my was of saying I did not work out today. I have some medication though, so hopefully I will feel well enough to walk again tomorow.
Thursday 2/03
I walked 1.5 miles at 4.5. And then I died a little bit. I am still sick, but I am trying to push through it.
Friday 2/04
My inlaws are in town from California, so today was all about them. We didn't get home until late, and I was too dead to go walking. We did a lot of walking through stores today, though- so even though I don't know how to rate it, I know I did something.
Saturday 2/05
Happy Birthday Sara Bear! I didn't run today. I am feeling lots better though.
Sunday 2/06
We had another party for Sara, so I didn't run again. This next week will have to be better. I am feeling lots better, but I am worried I will have to start back at square one with the running. Oh well. That's just how it goes.
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155.
Last week I was at 150.
This week I am at 148.
I lost 2 pounds even with not working out a few days. Mark that on the pro-side of being rediculously sick.
I didn't work out today. I am sick and have been hacking up a lung all day. I was still going to try and walk on the treadmill, but around noon my fever spiked and I felt my energy completely drain out of me. I tried to eat healthy, and I will attempt to work-out twice tomorrow depending on how I feel.
Tuesday 2/01
I am still coughing like crazy, but my fever broke last night which relieved my headache, so I feel MUCH better. I just walked 1.8 miles at 4.5mph. I couldn't go faster than that without my asthma coming out. I think my cold is making it stronger than normal. Since I can't run and sweat as hard right now, I am really concentrating on eating better and I still plan to try walking again if the baby goes down for another nap so I can make up for missing yesterday's work-out.
Wednesday 2/02
I am so sick. I went to the doctor and found that I had 102 degree fever and a sinus infection that caused a post nasal drip that went and caused a nice little case of pneumonia. Yuck. That is my was of saying I did not work out today. I have some medication though, so hopefully I will feel well enough to walk again tomorow.
Thursday 2/03
I walked 1.5 miles at 4.5. And then I died a little bit. I am still sick, but I am trying to push through it.
Friday 2/04
My inlaws are in town from California, so today was all about them. We didn't get home until late, and I was too dead to go walking. We did a lot of walking through stores today, though- so even though I don't know how to rate it, I know I did something.
Saturday 2/05
Happy Birthday Sara Bear! I didn't run today. I am feeling lots better though.
Sunday 2/06
We had another party for Sara, so I didn't run again. This next week will have to be better. I am feeling lots better, but I am worried I will have to start back at square one with the running. Oh well. That's just how it goes.
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155.
Last week I was at 150.
This week I am at 148.
I lost 2 pounds even with not working out a few days. Mark that on the pro-side of being rediculously sick.
Monday, January 31, 2011
My Reward
So, this is hard. This running every day and finding time, and giving up my favorite treats and eating smaller portions, and the soreness, and the dreadfully slow decline of the scale. It is hard.
I have decided to make things a little lighter by giving myself a tangible material reward to shoot for when all this hard stuff results in what I am working for-- a 125 pound reading on the scale OR (because scales hate me) a slim waist that fits back into my size 4 (or maybe 6) pants.
I am thinking one of these beauties will be just the thing. I have been drooling over them for a while now, but can never justify spending that kind of money on myself, especially when I am so far right now from being able to look good in them. 26 pounds from now, however, I should look great in either of them!
http://www.shabbyapple.com/p-89-lete.aspx
http://www.shabbyapple.com/p-670-le-seine.aspx
I love Shabby Apple, and I think when I am rich and skinny, my wardrobe will be stocked with their items. I love them.
I have decided to make things a little lighter by giving myself a tangible material reward to shoot for when all this hard stuff results in what I am working for-- a 125 pound reading on the scale OR (because scales hate me) a slim waist that fits back into my size 4 (or maybe 6) pants.
I am thinking one of these beauties will be just the thing. I have been drooling over them for a while now, but can never justify spending that kind of money on myself, especially when I am so far right now from being able to look good in them. 26 pounds from now, however, I should look great in either of them!
http://www.shabbyapple.com/p-89-lete.aspx
http://www.shabbyapple.com/p-670-le-seine.aspx
I love Shabby Apple, and I think when I am rich and skinny, my wardrobe will be stocked with their items. I love them.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Work-Out Record 1-28 through 1-30
Friday 1/28
I did NOT want to run today. I am sick. I feel awful. My throat hurts and my head is foggy and I ache all over. Not awesome. When the baby went down for a rare nap, however, I kicked my butt into gear.
I ran a mile at 5.7. It was rough, and I was making a fool of myself at the end trying to get myself to finish it. "Come on! You're so close. Keep it up. Don't quit now. 0.3 more to go- that's not so hard!" See, this is why I can't do a gym. People would stare and worry, and slowly walk away and avoid eye contact.
After the mile I put it all the way down to 4, and walked while doing Kenpo arm movements. When I caught my breath a bit, I put the incline up to 10, and then moved it down 2 notches every minute. That meant it took 5 minutes to get back down to level. At that point I had hit 1.5 miles, and I was so done with the treadmill.
There was still some time left on my Friends episode, so I did 75 crunches- 25 regular and 25 on each oblique, and 30 push ups in two sets of 15.
I am tired and so gross feeling, but I am proud of myself for keeping my goal and pushing myself as hard as I did. I think I will shower and then try and sleep while the baby is still out.
Saturday 1/29
I ran a mile at 5.7, then cooled down for .75 miles by slowly decreasing the speed to a fast walk over the space of 7 minutes. That 5.7 speed was not any easier than it was yesterday, so I will probably stay on it again tomorrow.
I did 100 situps in sets of 25- 50 regular, and 25 on each oblique. I also did 60 push-ups in sets of 15, which was really hard for the last two sets as the baby was crawling all over and around me. He was very cute, and I am sure he was trying to be motivating.
I weigh in tomorrow, so we will see if my weight depicts all this hard work. My dad asked if I had lost weight when I was at his house today, and that made me feel happy, so even if that scale hates on me, I will feel like I have accomplished something.
Sunday 1/30
1 mile at 5.8. From there I lowered the speed .1mph every 30 seconds until I hit 5mph at which point I started waiting a full minute to lower it. I did another full mile.
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155.
Last week I was at 151.
This week I am at 150.
That is 1 pound per week. Not great poundage wise, but my runs feel easier and more natural, my pants fit better, and 3 people have asked if I am losing weight. Suck it, scale! :) Ross thinks I am gaining muscle because of my push-ups. Whatever it is, I am trying not to get discouraged and just keep running.
I did NOT want to run today. I am sick. I feel awful. My throat hurts and my head is foggy and I ache all over. Not awesome. When the baby went down for a rare nap, however, I kicked my butt into gear.
I ran a mile at 5.7. It was rough, and I was making a fool of myself at the end trying to get myself to finish it. "Come on! You're so close. Keep it up. Don't quit now. 0.3 more to go- that's not so hard!" See, this is why I can't do a gym. People would stare and worry, and slowly walk away and avoid eye contact.
After the mile I put it all the way down to 4, and walked while doing Kenpo arm movements. When I caught my breath a bit, I put the incline up to 10, and then moved it down 2 notches every minute. That meant it took 5 minutes to get back down to level. At that point I had hit 1.5 miles, and I was so done with the treadmill.
There was still some time left on my Friends episode, so I did 75 crunches- 25 regular and 25 on each oblique, and 30 push ups in two sets of 15.
I am tired and so gross feeling, but I am proud of myself for keeping my goal and pushing myself as hard as I did. I think I will shower and then try and sleep while the baby is still out.
Saturday 1/29
I ran a mile at 5.7, then cooled down for .75 miles by slowly decreasing the speed to a fast walk over the space of 7 minutes. That 5.7 speed was not any easier than it was yesterday, so I will probably stay on it again tomorrow.
I did 100 situps in sets of 25- 50 regular, and 25 on each oblique. I also did 60 push-ups in sets of 15, which was really hard for the last two sets as the baby was crawling all over and around me. He was very cute, and I am sure he was trying to be motivating.
I weigh in tomorrow, so we will see if my weight depicts all this hard work. My dad asked if I had lost weight when I was at his house today, and that made me feel happy, so even if that scale hates on me, I will feel like I have accomplished something.
Sunday 1/30
1 mile at 5.8. From there I lowered the speed .1mph every 30 seconds until I hit 5mph at which point I started waiting a full minute to lower it. I did another full mile.
**Weigh In**
I started the year at 155.
Last week I was at 151.
This week I am at 150.
That is 1 pound per week. Not great poundage wise, but my runs feel easier and more natural, my pants fit better, and 3 people have asked if I am losing weight. Suck it, scale! :) Ross thinks I am gaining muscle because of my push-ups. Whatever it is, I am trying not to get discouraged and just keep running.
My Plan
Right now, my workouts consist of 21-23 minutes of moving on my treadmill. Why that random amount of time? Because that is how long episodes of my favorite sitcoms are without the commercials. :) I run while watching my favorite episodes of Friends, Scrubs, Big Bang Theory, and others. That helps me to not focus so much on the time and distance remaining before I meet my goal. It has helped a lot.
The first week, I walked at a fast pace and when that started to feel more natural, I upped the incline to make the workout more intense.
The second week I started a slow jog at the beginning of the workout, and alternated that with my fast walk.
The third week, I pushed it up a bunch of nothces because my asthma was feeling much more controlled. I started with jogging, and went a full mile before letting myself walk. Then, while walking, I would work out my arms by doing the movements from the Kenpo-X video from P90-X.
I have kept that same routine for this fourth week as well. I punch up the mile speed every day just a bit. Sometimes I have to put it back to where I was the day before by the end of the mile. Last night I ran it at 5.6 miles an hour. I know that sounds slow- but I was pretty proud of myself. Tonight I will try it at 5.7.
When I get to a comfortable 10 minute mile (6 mph), I will start trying to run straight for 1.25 miles, and go from there.
Since starting this goal, I have lost 4 pounds. That seems lame to me because I have been working so hard. The bright spot for me is that this running is getting easier. It feels better than it did before, and I actually look forward to my 22 minutes of what felt like torture a few weeks ago. That is awesome.
I have only missed running 5 of the 28 days of this year. The first 3 I missed were because I was down with a wicked case of Mastitus. The other 2 were while I was on a mini-vacation with my family. I didn't run those days, but I did do laps in the hotel pool, and I felt that workout like crazy.
My husband says he can already see a difference. I don't know about that as I can't see a difference, but I have always been hard to pick up on subtle changes like that in myself (which is how I let myself get to this point without stopping it before now).
I think, to keep myself from hating myself and the inventor of scales, I will only weigh myself once a week. That should keep me from stressing over the daily ups and downs that the body naturally goes through. Maybe I will end up throwing the scale away all-together. We will see.
I also think I will post daily about my workouts, but I will keep it to one post a week. That means I will just put daily updates on the post for the week. I think that should be sufficient. I know it will be boring to read, but as I looked through the work-out histories my friends posted on their blogs, I thought how proud they must feel to scroll through all those days and see how hard they had been working. I think it is an awesome inspirational and motivational method.
The first week, I walked at a fast pace and when that started to feel more natural, I upped the incline to make the workout more intense.
The second week I started a slow jog at the beginning of the workout, and alternated that with my fast walk.
The third week, I pushed it up a bunch of nothces because my asthma was feeling much more controlled. I started with jogging, and went a full mile before letting myself walk. Then, while walking, I would work out my arms by doing the movements from the Kenpo-X video from P90-X.
I have kept that same routine for this fourth week as well. I punch up the mile speed every day just a bit. Sometimes I have to put it back to where I was the day before by the end of the mile. Last night I ran it at 5.6 miles an hour. I know that sounds slow- but I was pretty proud of myself. Tonight I will try it at 5.7.
When I get to a comfortable 10 minute mile (6 mph), I will start trying to run straight for 1.25 miles, and go from there.
Since starting this goal, I have lost 4 pounds. That seems lame to me because I have been working so hard. The bright spot for me is that this running is getting easier. It feels better than it did before, and I actually look forward to my 22 minutes of what felt like torture a few weeks ago. That is awesome.
I have only missed running 5 of the 28 days of this year. The first 3 I missed were because I was down with a wicked case of Mastitus. The other 2 were while I was on a mini-vacation with my family. I didn't run those days, but I did do laps in the hotel pool, and I felt that workout like crazy.
My husband says he can already see a difference. I don't know about that as I can't see a difference, but I have always been hard to pick up on subtle changes like that in myself (which is how I let myself get to this point without stopping it before now).
I think, to keep myself from hating myself and the inventor of scales, I will only weigh myself once a week. That should keep me from stressing over the daily ups and downs that the body naturally goes through. Maybe I will end up throwing the scale away all-together. We will see.
I also think I will post daily about my workouts, but I will keep it to one post a week. That means I will just put daily updates on the post for the week. I think that should be sufficient. I know it will be boring to read, but as I looked through the work-out histories my friends posted on their blogs, I thought how proud they must feel to scroll through all those days and see how hard they had been working. I think it is an awesome inspirational and motivational method.
My Excuses
When I was in 4th grade, we had a fun activity where we had to list 101 excuses for not completing a homework assignment. It was a race, and I totally won. When I went to present my rapidly completed list, the teacher took it, congratulated me, and then ripped it to shreds. While I was upset at the time (I worked hard on that thing!), it got the desired message across.
Excuses are dumb and should be thrown into the trash and exchanged for action and responsibility.
So, here are my excuses that will now be thrown away in my new efforts for health and pro-activity.
Excuses are dumb and should be thrown into the trash and exchanged for action and responsibility.
So, here are my excuses that will now be thrown away in my new efforts for health and pro-activity.
- I have exercise induced asthma. It hurts to breathe hard. This can always be overcome as I temper it with regular activity- but breaking through those first few workouts is insanely hard and quite painful.
- I have 3 kids. My life is busy, and my body packed on the pounds to love and nurture them.
- I plan to have more kids. Why lose weight when I know I am going to put my body through another grueling and weight welcoming pregnancy in the near future?
- I am busy. I have 3 kids. Did I mention that? On top of that, I have a writing job from home, a husband who enjoys my time, extensive responsibilities with my church group, places to drop my kids off and pick them up from, and neighbors who need my time and attention during their current struggles. (3 women on my street have husbands who are deployed, and 4 women within 2 blocks of me are on bed rest. I babysit a lot.)
- It is cold outside. I live in Utah, and it is January. Jsut wait- in July I start complaining about the heat. These weather excuses are awesome.
- I am the least attractive runner of all time. I am a redhead, and, as all fellow redheads know, extreme physcial activity causes those blood vessels that are too close to the surface of the too pale skin to make our faces a nice shade of mottled purple. On top of that genentic deficiency, I sweat. A lot. Its gross.
- My husband still thinks I am beautiful. He supports me fully in this goal of mine, and has made personal goals for himself as well, but he reminds me all the time that he thinks I am gorgeous the way I am.
- I don't like to be too tired. I get very little sleep due to my children, my insomnia, and my snoring husband, so engaging in activity that drains me of my precious energy doesn't always seem like the smartest idea.
- I have back problems. I have three kids which means I have been pregnant at least three times. Putting all that strain on my tiny frame has left me with some very painful back issues. My OB even tried to find a masseuse who would work on me while in my late pregnancy, because he could see the strain that was being put on my perpetually bent spine. Nobody would. Liability issues. My back now has a perma-arch that doesn't like to be moved.
- I am embarassed. I am ashamed of where I let myself get. I am depressed about how unhealthy my life has become. By making the efforts to work out and change my diet, I have to face all those bad decisions and that is hard.
OK, there you have it. Those are my top ten excuses for not wanting to work out and lose the weight before now. At this point, I feel they are all superficial and contrived. Being healthy and fit is far more important than any of the false luxuries I have trained my avoidance-prone mind to revel in. It is time to rip up this rap sheet of excuses and throw them away.
I am making the change NOW! Here's to the new year, and the new me.
Why I'm Doing This
I am a 26 year old mother of three. I work a part time job from home, have extensive responsibilities in my church, and currently homeschool my two oldest children. All of that compounded with my large litany of excuses has resulted in a nice little 54 pound addition to my body sine I got married 6 1/2 years ago. Not great.
When I met and dated my husband, I was in fine form. I was 98 pounds and was lean and healthy thanks to my place on the college ballroom team, and my personal efforts to keep up my running routine.
Then I got married and took on a full-time job on top of my full-time schooling on top of my new role as wife. This necessitated giving up my spot on the ballroom team, and spending my regular working out moments doing homework. I gained my first 15 pounds (which may not seem like a lot, but remember that is a 15% increase in my body mass) the first year of marriage.
Then I got pregnant. The rest is a 54 pound history, that I am now ready to combat. Some of my dearest friends have created blogs to document their weight loss efforts and workout history. I thought this was an awesome idea as it provides a place to record the thoughts, feelings, setbacks, triumphs, and ideas that always accompany goals such as this.
So- that is my story. I hope to run and crunch and pushup my way out of at least 30 of these pounds. I think 125 is a good healthy weight for a woman of my stature. Aside from that, I have a closet full of clothes that are waiting for me to look good in again. If the scale doesn't want to cooperate, as scales are often wont to do, then I will gague my success based on how I fit and feel in the clothing that looked and felt good on me when I was closer to my target weight.
When I met and dated my husband, I was in fine form. I was 98 pounds and was lean and healthy thanks to my place on the college ballroom team, and my personal efforts to keep up my running routine.
Then I got married and took on a full-time job on top of my full-time schooling on top of my new role as wife. This necessitated giving up my spot on the ballroom team, and spending my regular working out moments doing homework. I gained my first 15 pounds (which may not seem like a lot, but remember that is a 15% increase in my body mass) the first year of marriage.
Then I got pregnant. The rest is a 54 pound history, that I am now ready to combat. Some of my dearest friends have created blogs to document their weight loss efforts and workout history. I thought this was an awesome idea as it provides a place to record the thoughts, feelings, setbacks, triumphs, and ideas that always accompany goals such as this.
So- that is my story. I hope to run and crunch and pushup my way out of at least 30 of these pounds. I think 125 is a good healthy weight for a woman of my stature. Aside from that, I have a closet full of clothes that are waiting for me to look good in again. If the scale doesn't want to cooperate, as scales are often wont to do, then I will gague my success based on how I fit and feel in the clothing that looked and felt good on me when I was closer to my target weight.
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