Slim and Healthy Life

Very Encouraging!

2011-10-24T15:05:00.003-06:00

I have meaning to do this post for months now; I'm finally getting around to it! I am not quite to my goal weight, but I'm getting close. I have been kind of stagnant in my progress over the last couple months, but at least I haven't gained much either. Here is a photo timeline of my progress. I made a big drop when I joined the gym (late December) and then another bigger drop when I got serious about my calorie intake (mid May).

If you click on the photo you can see it larger.

Looking at how much better I look now is really motivating. I really recommend looking back at your old photos too.

I am determined to jump back into being really disciplined again so I can continue to reach my goals!

I am a Triathlete!

2011-08-07T20:00:00.002-06:00

I'm finally getting around to posting about my triathlon I competed in a month ago. It was amazing! Here I am right before the race with my cousin.

Most triathlons are in open water, but I decided to do my first one in a pool. I am not a strong swimmer and am certainly not fast. I was worried I might get tired and have to back stroke, but I was able to achieve my goal of doing it all on my front, either freestyle or breast stroke.

The bike ride was my favorite part: 12.1 miles through beautiful Cache Valley.

This is moments before I crossed the finish line!

It may have only been a sprint (half the Olympic distance), but it was a great start. It was really so much fun and I wasn't even sore afterwards; I surely should have pushed myself harder. I definitely want to do another triathlon and hope to do the Cache Valley Sprint again next year! We're officially triathletes!

We Really Do Adapt

2011-07-08T14:46:00.001-06:00

As I mentioned last post, I've finally been losing weight again. Since May 24th I've lost 12 pounds. I've been getting compliments like crazy and I've even had to buy some new "skinny" clothes. I'm still not as thin as I'd like, but one of the pants I bought was an 8. Sweet!

I've been going to the gym in the early mornings at least four days a week all year, but I wasn't seeing the progress I wanted. I finally decided to get SERIOUS with the diet. I used to be good for lunch and dinner and then make things like lasagna for dinner. I wouldn't eat that much, but I wasn't limiting myself to one serving.

I have actually been eating the recommended serving size of things. At first I was hungry a lot and had to chew sugarless gum all day to keep myself from munching. Sometimes I felt even a little weak like my body actually needed the energy. You know what happened after a few weeks of about 1400-1600 calories per day? My body adapted. It's not that I'm always satisfied with my one serving of oatmeal and a banana for breakfast or my tuna sandwich for lunch, but it's not too bad. I usually have a snack (apple or yogurt) or two between meals and that helps a lot. Really though, I've adapted a lot. Now if I eat a second serving of Special K, I feel like I just ate a Thanksgiving meal. Okay, maybe that's exaggerating, but the principle is true. I never really thought I ate that much before, but compared to now I did. I still eat a little of the good food at family parties, but at home I've been super-strict about it. I've lost almost two pounds a week so far, so I'm pleased.

When I say I've adapted, I mean more than just feeling full. I have enough energy to get a good workout at the gym. I'm still nursing and at first my milk started waning too, but now it's back up. It's pretty incredible that our bodies can adapt the way they do.

If you want to find some good meal ideas you can browse the sites below:

Good Housekeeping has some great meal plans for weight loss.

USDA National Nutrient Database has ALL of the nutrition information on foods.

Mayo Clinic answers questions about all types of things, including weight loss and fitness.

All types of free meal plans at www.freedieting.com

Free meal plans by total calories of meal type (i.e. high protein) at Changing Shape (look under freebies).

P.S. My triathlon is tomorrow. I hope it goes well!

Dirty Dash

2011-06-16T20:33:00.001-06:00

At the beginning of this month I ran the Dirty Dash race, which is a 5k mud run. Our team name was "Cruisin' for a Bruisin'".

There were photographers throughout the race taking professional photos. I don't love these photos enough to purchase them, so that's why there just the samples. The race was up at Soldier Hollow in Midway. Some of the race was just a dirt road, but they had obstacles like hay bales and these walls you had to climb over.

There were sometimes fans spraying our huge amounts of water to make everything a muddy mess. There were tires to step through and tunnels to crawl though. Some runners slopped themselves with so much mud that they were brown from head-to-toe. I actually didn't get too dirty considering the mess I was running through. Near the end they had this huge blow-up thing. I tried to slide, but it didn't have enough air, so I had to jog down it instead.
At the very end there was this huge mud pit.
I decided to wear clothes that I don't care for so that I could just throw them away afterwards. Good riddance! I wore some old running shoes that were still great. After the race I washed them off and donated them to charity. I'm glad that people in Africa can benefit from them. Climbing out of that slippery pit was seriously an accomplishment.
Here is our team Cruisin' for a Bruisin' with the Dirty Dash stuffed pig.

It was really fun! It's definitely the kind of thing that is way more fun with a team than it would be by yourself. They're doing a 10k Dirty Dash in September if you're up for it.

Finding Balance

2011-05-31T22:30:00.007-06:00

Okay, so I kind of took a hiatus from this blog for a while. It wasn't intentional; I just have been busy with other things. I thought I'd catch you up on few decisions I've made.

For a while I was training very seriously for the Olympic distance triathlon. I was going to the gym five or six days a week for two hours a day. I was going on 20 miles bike rides and swimming ten million laps...okay, maybe like 75 lengths. The trouble was that I felt like it wasn't as fun anymore. I was starting to feel overwhelmed that even with all of the training, I still wouldn't be able to do all of the events back-to-back. I have three young children- very young, as in my oldest just turned five. I feel like my first priority needs to be a good wife and mother. Going to the gym and being fit helps me be better, but wearing myself out training hard for hours every day is just not my priority right now.

So, I decided to go back to a sprint triathlon. I feel really good about it. I'm sure I can do it and I don't have to stress out about training for it. I feel like I can enjoy everything more without so much pressure to stick to a training schedule. So, because I am only doing a sprint instead, I figured I'd save fifty plus dollars and sign up for a different race. I'll be doing one in Cache Valley. It's less than half the price and some of the money actually goes to charity, which is sadly rare with triathlons. Also, I don't have to rent a wet suit since it's in a pool. I can always do another one later, but this will be a good introduction to tris. Also, I have some cousins doing it with me, so that will be super-fun!

Some people might say that I'm a quitter. I honestly don't think so. I am still doing a triathlon, but for my priorities in life right now, this is a better fit.

P.S. On a side note, I fell off the eating right wagon a while ago. A week ago, however, I recommitted myself. I lost three pounds since. Sweet!

Imbued With Confidence!

2011-04-05T21:26:00.002-06:00

I have been getting up early to go workout at the gym five or six days a week. Depending on the class I'm headed to, I have to set my alarm for between 4:45-5:50. Yeah, it's early. You'd think I'd adapt and it wouldn't seem so early, but I haven't- yet anyway. It's nearly always a battle to get up, but luckily my self-discipline has proved conquerer and I pretty much always get up.

The other day, i had stayed up too late again and the kids had kept me up a bit again. When my alarm went I was so tempted to just fall back asleep, but I ripped myself out of bed and headed to the gym. I have been nervous about the swimming portion of the sprint triathlon. It's not that far, but I get tired swimming freestyle lap after lap. In talking with some friends, I learned that it's not necessary to front crawl the whole time. With that in mind, I decided to just see how many laps I could go without touching the bottom or pushing off the sides. I tried to go freestyle for the most part, but nearly half of the laps ended up being breast or back stroke. With switching off, however, I was able to go the sixty laps to make 1500 meters. I didn't do it fast, and my technique was sloppy, but I swam the distance of an Olympic triathlon!

Well, that sealed the deal. If I can swim far enough, then I'm determined to bike and run far enough. It's going to be tough, but I am going to do an Olympic distance triathlon! I'm so glad I got out of bed so I can be filled with confidence. . . not regret.

I'm a little crazy to be doing the Olympic distance tri. Swimming across a cold reservoir for nearly a mile, then biking a full marathon on mountain roads that have big elevation changes and then running a 10K when I'm already tired from the swimming and biking. . . Yes, I am crazy!

I hope I'll survive! Finishing and not being last are my goals. I have been exercising daily, but I really need to to step up the training. I haven't been running more than two miles at a time and I've just been doing the spin classes, not any on the road biking. I've decided though and I'm a DETERMINED SOUL when I put my mind to something.

That swim filled me with confidence and I'm going to work hard to keep it! Wish me luck!

Calorie Gallery

2011-02-21T14:27:00.005-07:00

My sister just told me about the Calorie Gallery. They have taken pictures of hundreds of foods in 200 calorie portions.

You can see how much of a fast food burger or pizza you can eat (not much), how much butter (2 Tablespoons) or how much lettuce (2 1/2 heads). They also have drinks too. It's all about choices. Sometimes, it's worth it to eat the 3 1/2 Oreos, but you certainly fill fuller eating two pears. Check it out!

Overload Principle

2011-02-18T22:23:00.002-07:00

A cousin just posted something great on her blog about the "Overload Principle". I had actually just been thinking about the concept anyway. One of my gym instructors is an incredible athlete. She does Boston-speed marathons and century rides on her bike. She teaches cycling and runner's bootcamp at the gym and gymnastics as well. Anyway, she said, "If I don't wake up a little sore, I know I didn't push myself enough." Even though she is definitely in-shape, she continues to push her limits daily. I am not yet a true athlete, but I have tried to incorporate the principle of pushing myself daily. I try to cycle faster with more resistance, sprint faster, run farther, jump higher, increase my lifting weights, etc.

I am going to copy what my cousin wrote on her blog because I feel it so well explained:

Overload Principle: the requirements necessary to bring about improvement in the various systems of the body. As the body is subject to loads greater than they are accustomed to, the systems adjust and increase their capacity to perform physical work.(Definition from Strength Training 4th ed. by Philip Allsen)

This principle applies to cardiovascular and muscular training. Basically, if you do the same exact workout all the time, your body will not adjust and increase its capacity. Here are some ways you can mix up a workout so that you can continue to challenge your body and improve.

Muscular Training

•increase the resistance
•increase the number of repetitions
•increase the number of sets
•decrease the time of rest between sets for a given exercise (rest time should still be at least a minute, however)
•increase workout frequency (go from 2 to 3 days per week)
•switch up your routine (don't do the same exercise for each body part all the time)
•try circuit training (alternating resistance exercise with short bouts of high intensity aerobic exercise like rope jumping, jumping jacks, running, etc.)

Cardiovascular Training

•increase your mileage/time
•increase your intensity by upping your pace
•increase workout frequency (start at 3 days and gradually increase to 5 or 6 days per week)
•incorporate hills into your workout (or increase the incline or resistance on machines)
•interval training (where you alternate between high and low intensity)
•try circuit training (alternating resistance exercise with short bouts of high intensity aerobic exercise like rope jumping, jumping jacks, running, etc.)
•try a new mode of exercise (if you're a runner, mix in some biking, swimming, aerobic dance, etc.)

Let's all try to apply the "overload principle" into our exercise routines.

Helping Others and Yourself

2011-02-04T11:38:00.002-07:00

In case you haven't heard about the Pound for Pound Challenge (or have forgotten to sign up), it's not too late. Every pound you pledge to lose will be one pound of food given to your local food bank. It's an easy way to help others while helping yoursef. Even if you are only maintaining your weight, you can pledge to do that and Feeding America will donate five pounds of food.

Check it out!

I'm Determined to be the Master of my Fate

2011-01-18T21:30:00.008-07:00

I've decided that I am definitely going to be competing in my first sprint triathlon this summer. I am no where near fit enough right now, but I'm determined. I may or may not have the opportunity to train in future years, but the stars have aligned for me now and I'm seizing the opportunity.

The swim is definitely my hardest leg. I know how to swim, but my technique is really sloppy. For the last few Saturdays I've been swimming laps after my regular workout. I did 14 and 16 laps respectively, and probably could have kept going, but it wasn't a pretty sight. I started out okay, but after a few laps I had to switch it up with breaststroke. A sprint tri requires a half mile, or about 33 laps. Most likely, however, the triathlon will have me swimming in the middle of some lake, so that's an added challenge. Lucky for me, I have access to some swimming instruction. My mother-in-law was a swim coach and my husband is a great swimmer. With their tips and my hard work practicing I'm sure I can pull it off.

Part of the reason that right now is a good time to train is that I have this gym membership. It expires in 6 months and I will probably no longer get the killer deal I've got now. The gym provides access to a pool, which is vital for training. They also offer incredible cycling classes that can get me in great shape for the bike leg. The running is the easiest part to do. With the runner's bootcamp and other cross-training classes offered at the gym, I should be able to improve my times significantly.

Even though it hasn't been very long since baby #3 for me, I could probably finish a triathlon if I had to, but it would take criminals chasing me or the offer of a million dollars to push me through and it wouldn't be fast. My desire is to get to where I don't "just finish" a sprint triathlon, but do it in a reasonable time.

It's a battle to get up at 5:45 every morning to go to the gym. It's a bigger battle to try to eat right, especially measuring to get small portions.

Despite the challenges, I'm determined to be the master of my fate.

That fate will be that I will be a triathlete in five or six months.

Free Classes

2011-01-10T11:13:00.002-07:00

I have been going to the gym 3-4 times per week so far and am loving it. I really enjoy all of the classes I've tried. I love the group exercise setting. This week Gold's Gym is launching all of their new routines on their new classes, so anyone can try them, even if they don't have a membership. Here's the schedule for the Ogden location: (Click on it to make it larger.)

Today I tried Runner's Bootcamp. It was really tough. I had to modify it and will still probably feel the ache in my quads for a few days. A lot of the people in that class are marathoners and triathletes, but they made me feel like it was great for me to be there. I loved the BodyAttack class I tried last week and still enjoy the RPM spin class.

For those of you who don't own a gym membership, you can try it out for free. I'm sure the other Gold's locations (and other gyms) have free classes too. You can call or check online for information. I know that Gold's also offers a free 7-day trial pass. I tried that out first before buying a membership. If you are like I was and still working out at home, keep at it. If you're dedicated, it is possible to get a great workout at home as well!

Yay! I Joined a Gym

2011-01-02T23:31:00.007-07:00

After my second baby, I lost over 40 pounds (after the six weeks postpartum). I did it at home and around my neighborhood. My baby was born in December, but starting in January I bundled up my kids and started running out in the cold. I also did workout videos at home and lifted 5 and 10 pound handweights. Yes, it can be done at home, by yourself, without equipment. It isn't easy though.
Three kids, none of whom yet go to school, gives me a dilema. I can't fit all three in a stroller and I can't ask my four-year old to ride his bike on the icy streets. Getting up in the early hours to go out and run in those icy streets myself isn't very desirable either. I was trying exercise videos, but I was having a hard time staying motivated. The solution for me was joining a gym. Luckily my husband's company has a corporate discount and so I am now the excited owner of a Gold's Gym membership.

I just got a membership a couple of days before Christmas, but I already love it! With my husband off for the holidays I was able to go during the day sometimes, but I've already made a few 6:00 AM trips. On New Year's Day it was absolutely freezing here. I went to the gym at 8:15 and it wasn't even 20 degrees outside. It was so nice to come into the climate-controlled gym and enjoy my workout instead of bemoan my misfortune in the cold. Instead of only having my few free weights for equipment, now I have this and more at my disposal:
I haven't swam laps in a decade, but I've been contemplating a sprint triathalon. Luckily Gold's also has a pool, so it's now a possibility. We'll have to see how it goes. My favorite room so far is the spinning cycle room. I have gone a few times and can't quite keep up yet, but I'll get there. Right away I feel the burn in my legs like my quads are on fire and I'm dripping sweat. Despite that, I'm actually enjoying myself-love it!They have a whole slew of classes that I'm excited to try. The only thing that would make my trips more enjoyable would be a friend to go with. My husband has a membership, but with the kids we can't go at the same time. If you live near me and a have a membership, please let me know.

Hooray for finding a way to make things work!

Working on my Six-Pack

2010-11-24T11:44:00.005-07:00

It's only about 15° F outside today, so I was not about to exercise outside today.
I might sometime subject myself to that, but I won't inflict it upon my innocent kids. I still have been exercising though. I've been doing so with one of my favorite Exercise TV trainers, Cindy Whitmarsh. I like her Fat Burn and Less Is More cardio sculpting workouts. Today I did her Six-Pack Calorie Abs workout. I had forgotten how much I love it. Because I have just started exercising again after having my baby, my core needs a lot of work. This workout is perfect because it adapts perfectly from beginner to advanced.

Seriously, I feel like this workout is worth doing daily. Let's be honest though, I'll probably only do it a couple times a week. It takes less than fifteen minutes and is super effective. Try it out!

Seriously Good

2010-11-16T22:30:00.003-07:00

Sometimes I have zero self-control. I'm pretty good about not buying fatty foods myself, but if someone else provides it, I have a hard time resisting. Thank goodness for delicious gum, like this Extra Key Lime. Instead of reaching for a cookie or french fry, I can chew this instead. It really tastes like key lime pie or lime sherbet and stops me from eating what I would inevitably regret eating later. Thank you, Sugarfree Gum!

Measuring Progress

2010-11-04T19:55:00.006-06:00

Last week I decided to do some body measurements so that I could measure my progress better. I've never done this before, but I'm already glad that I did. I measured in centimeters using a flexible measuring tape:

• Bust: Measure around the breast right at the center line, but don't pull the tape too tight.
• Chest: Measure just under your bust
• Waist: Measure a half-inch above your belly button
• Hips: Place tape measure around the biggest part of your hips
• Buttocks: Measure around the midline of your buttocks
• Thighs: Measure around the biggest part of each thigh
• Calves: Measure around the largest part of each calf
• Upper arm: Measure around the largest part of each arm above the elbow
• Forearm: Measure around the largest part of the arm below the elbow.

I also measured my pulse for a minute to get a resting heart rate and then my total weight, of course.
Because of a rotten cold, I wasn't able to start back to running until this week. Monday was pretty discouraging. I would try to jog at a brisk pace and after about two house lengths I was ready to walk. Wednesday I tried jogging again. I decided postpartum for me is lower than "couch potato", because running for a full-minute is too long, even at slow pace. I opted instead for 30 seconds fast jogging and then a minute walking. It turned out great! I was able to go a couple miles that way and even keep up a reasonable pace on the running segments. It was much more encouraging (although I still have a long ways to go).

Well, after one week, I already have made a small amount of progress in my measurements. Once a week I'm adding data into a speadsheet so I can make a graph. This is what it looks like now.

Which Direction Are You Heading?

2010-10-26T21:09:00.004-06:00

Now that my baby is six weeks old and I'm cleared for exercise again, I have been looking forward to getting back into an exercise routine. I had been planning to start week one of the Couch Potato to Runner training program. The weather last week was in the upper sixties, and now the high is in the forties, but that wouldn't have stopped me. Unfortunately I also have a cold with a killer sore throat. I have postponed my first cardio workout, but that doesn't mean I have to hold off on everything.

I have still started back up with hand weights. I love feeling my arm muscles work and know that I'm getting stronger. It will take some time before I am strong enough to do this upper body workout with 10 pound weights again, but I'm sure I'll get there.

Today at my postpartum doctor appointment, I weighted in at 180.2 pounds. It's a far cry from where I'd like to be, but it's closer than I was after my previous pregnancies. Even thought the weather and a virus are not in my favor, I'm determined to get started in the right direction. Here is great quote by Jon Gruden:

"You never stay the same. You either get better or you get worse."

Which direction are you heading?

I'll Be Back Soon!

2010-10-08T16:16:00.003-06:00

I had my beautiful baby girl 3 1/2 weeks ago, which means that pretty soon I'll be back exercising and working hard to get back in shape. I've got about 30 pounds to lose (way better than the 50 I had to lose after having my last child). Pregnancy does a number on the physique, but aren't these adorable babies worth it? I definitely think so.

I can begin exercising again on October 25, so starting then I should starting posting more regularly as well. In the meantime, let me leave you with a great quote I found. It has proven to be true in all aspects of my life, including getting in shape.

"Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence.
Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent.
Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb.
Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts.
Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.
The slogan 'press on' has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race."
- Calvin Coolidge

Great Information

2010-08-28T18:00:00.001-06:00

Here's another great informational website on nutrition and exercise. Check it out!
http://hussmanfitness.org/

How to Slim Down

2010-08-11T22:41:00.003-06:00

Sorry I've been so lame about this blog. I'm eight months pregnant and definitely not slim. In a few months I still won't be slim, but I'll be very actively trying to get there again. This time around I'm lighter than I was with previous pregnancies, but I'll still have plenty to lose.

In the meantime I found this amazing blog that has lots of healthy weightloss tips. Check it out here.

Pushing Yourself While Having Fun

2010-06-21T22:13:00.005-06:00

A few weeks ago we took a vacation to Portland, Oregon. We enjoyed many things, including the Historic Columbia River Highway and all of the waterfalls. We hiked up to the top of Multnomah Falls. It's only 2.2 miles round trip, but has a 700 foot elevation gain. With a cold and at six months pregnant, it was a little challenging to push myself to the top, but I made it. I was seriously relieved enough to see that 11 of 11 switchbacks sign that I took a photo. Really though, I enjoyed myself immensely. it was so beautiful and fun to exercise in a different way!

We don't all live close enough to take this particular hike, but surely we all live close enough to something. Take the opportunity to get some exercise doing something fun out in nature.

Eating a Rainbow

2010-05-14T14:38:00.003-06:00

Have you ever wondered if different colors mean different things in foods? Well, I hadn't, but I found it very interesting to learn that they do. Here is a list of what vitamins and minerals are found in the rainbow of fruits and vegtables.
Here are more healthy eating Tips and Recipes.

Help More than Yourself

2010-04-28T09:59:00.003-06:00

In my pregnant condition it won't work out this year for me, but after my last pregnancy I did the Pound for Pound Challenge. For every pound of weight you lose, they will deliver a pound of food to a local food bank. I pledged 20 pounds, but ended up losing 26. It's nice to know that 26 pounds of food were delivered to local people in my community. Last year 3.5 million pounds of groceries were delivered to food banks.

Even if you can only pledge a few pounds, do it and help support two good causes: families in need of food and you getting to a healthier you!

Don't Take Advertiser's Word For It

2010-04-23T15:16:00.004-06:00

I try to be reasonably consciencious about checking food labels for myself and I am so glad that I do. Yahoo Health and Men's Magazine teamed up to rate breakfast cereals and made a list of the worst offenders for cereals marketed as healthy when it really isn't the case. They also have rated other types of foods if you want to check it out. You might be surprised if you've been assuming that cereals like Raisin Bran, Start Smart and Multi-Bran Chex are healthy choices.Luckily I don't eat any of those, but it is a definite reminder to me to check my nutrition information and not just take the advertiser's word for it!

Slowing My Decline

2010-04-13T10:21:00.002-06:00

Typically, eating right and exercising gets you more and more fit and into shape. Pregnancy gets you less and less fit and less into shape- well into a rounder shape. I've been doing both. I've been very conciencious to take it easy and I've had to adapt my exercising because of my growing belly. I have, however, still been exercising.

I've changed my outlook. I'm certainly not trying to lose weight anymore (I've gained almost 15 pounds already). Now I exercise to slow my decline. It's certainly working. Despite my weight gain, I look and feel so much better than I did with previous pregnancies. (Hopefully I can avoid gaining quite so much as well.) I still get a little winded when I run up the stairs or am carrying a child up the stairs, but I remember getting out of breath even easier with those past pregnancies.

I've been doing The Couch Potato to Runner Program, but I'm even taking that slowly. I did week two for two weeks. I may not ever be able to keep up a very fast pace while pregnant. Even if I never get beyond sprint/walk/jog intervals for any duration of time, I am still WAY BETTER OFF than I would be if I didn't try.

I imagine that most of you are not pregnant, but the idea still applies. Do what you can. Even if it's not as much as you wish you could do. Even if you only have 20 minutes, that's better than nothing. Doing something will be so much better for your health and almost even more so for your confidence. Prove to yourself that you don't give up even when things are hard.

++Have twenty minutes to work on your arms, try this.

Couch Potato to Runner

2010-03-20T14:33:00.002-06:00

Well, I've only been doing it two days, but I'm loving this Couch Potato to Runner Program. Because I am not really a couch potato I've been extending my running a little. Today I ran for 30 minutes (12 sprints). After a few sprints my heart was pounting in my chest and my lungs were hard at work to give me enough air. Because of the full-out sprints I could also feel my muscles getting fully utilized clear up to my gluts.

I love that feeling of knowing that I am extending myself a little. It was hard to push myself to run as fast as I could each time. The later sprints weren't nearly as fast, but I feel good about my efforts.

It's Amazing What a Few Months Can Do

2010-03-16T16:02:00.004-06:00

A few months after having my second child I decided to get serious about getting in shape. In the first three months I lost 20 pounds. That took consistent effort in exercising and eating right, but I loved the results. It's amazing what a few months can do.

Some of you may know that we are expecting again! We are really very excited about it. I'm just beginning my second trimester and am due in September. Now, I had hoped and basically planned on continuing my same exercise regiment throughout pregnancy. I knew I'd need to make a few alterations in my ab workouts, but I had not counted on feeling so queasy for a few months. Really as far as pregnancies go, I've been really lucky. I did not, however, feel like I could go out jogging for a while (or occasionally even out of bed).

Luckily, I have been feeling much better and started back into jogging. The trouble is that I'm practically starting over. After a two month hiatus, I can't keep up even a slow jog for three miles. Again, it's amazing what a few months can do. I am determined to make the next months get me back to consistent exercise.

I will trade off between two training styles. One is run 60 seconds, walk 90 seconds for a twenty minute time period. The other is jog a few miles (or more if I can) at a slow-moderate jog. Hopefully over the next few weeks I can get back into the groove.

The weather is delightful, so I imagine I won't need much coaxing to get out there, just determination to push myself to go a little faster a little longer.

Wish me luck! If you need to get "back into the groove" as well, there is never a better time than today!

Action Builds Confidence

2010-02-22T20:34:00.004-07:00

"Action is a great restorer and builder of confidence.
Inaction is not only the result, but the cause, of fear.
Perhaps the action you take will be successful;
Perhaps different action or adjustments will have to follow.
But any action is better than no action at all."
-Norman Vincent Peale

My friend posted this on her blog today and I really like it. I think it applies well to exercising and eating right. If we don't make the change, all we feel is guilt. We may not do everything perfectly, but every time we resist that unhealthy treat or go out and exercise, we are proving our strength. Demonstrating self-discipline is a wonderful builder of confidence. If you want to do something great that only takes 20 minutes, here you go.

Be strong! Be confident! Let's reach our goals!

Winter Can Be Tricky

2010-01-22T17:28:00.002-07:00

For those of you without kids and a gym membership, bad weather is no big deal. You can head to the gym at your convenience and work out in a climate-controlled gym. For some of us, however, cold, snowy weather presents a bit of a challenge.
Whenever the weather is reasonably nice (meaning at least a temperature in the mid-twenties and clear roads, I bundle my kids in their warmest attire, pile on the blankets and head out to jog. Last week I went three times and got in 13 miles- pretty sweet in the winter.
This week, however, it's been stormy nearly every day. I did the Dorm Room Workout on www.exercisetv.tv on Monday and some miscellaneous strength exercises during the week. Today I got out, but not early enough because when I had only run a mile and a half, it started to snow. I was able to finish the second mile, but by then the snow was falling heavily in giant snowflakes. It was beautiful, but certainly not ideal for running, especially with kids.
Anyone have fun ideas for getting your exercise indoors with kids?

Sorry for the Delay

2010-01-08T22:47:00.009-07:00

Sorry that I have been so lame about posting lately. Luckily I haven't been lame about exercising. I didn't make any headway because I also sampled all of the holiday treats. At least I didn't gain weight either-well maybe a pound. One of the things that has helped me keep up the running even in the frigid temperatures is my awesome new birthday/Christmas present of a double jogging stroller. It is fantastic! The one I got is a great one too if anyone is in the market. The only thing I wish it had was a hand brake, but since most of my neighborhood is flat it works out.
I want to share such an inspirational story with you. Emily is a friend of mine. We taught 1st grade together for a few years. She still teaches and has also lost over 100 pounds. Anyone losing that much is pretty awesome, but it's especially challenging for her because, you see, my friend Emily is in a wheelchair. (If you read this in Google Reader you'll have to go to my site to watch it.)

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

Emily did that without diet pills, surgery or other fad things. She just ate right and exercised. Next time you don't feel like exercising, remember that your body works and be grateful that you can exercise. Get moving and do what you can. Every little bit helps! Here are some great exercise tips and some ideas on how to add more physical activity into your daily life. Here's another on how to keep yourself motivated to keep losing or keep the weight off.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

2009-11-20T09:52:00.002-07:00

I found an interesting article published by the Harvard School of Public Health on How to Get to Your Healthy Weight. Most of it is just a reminder of well-researched methods of how people have lost weight and kept it off. Here is a quote from the article:

Slow and steady wins the race. Dieting implies deprivation and hunger. You don't need either to lose weight if you're willing to take the time to do it right. If you cut out just 100 calories a day, the equivalent of a single can of soda or a bedtime snack, you would weigh 10 pounds less after a year. If, at the same time, you added a brisk 30-minute walk five days a week, you could be at least 20 pounds lighter.

That is basically what I did to lose my weight. I hadn't been drinking soda, so I had to exchange some of my foods for for more filling foods (higher protein and fiber). I didn't starve myself or anything close. I also increased my exercise. I did (and still do) more running, doing aerobics, weight training etc. I didn't spend my whole day at it, just 3-7 hours per week. I spread that time over 3-6 days. It was very doable. An added bonus is that exercising and eating better improve mood as well!
Good luck reaching your goals!

Recommended Workout

2009-10-30T11:05:00.009-06:00

I just did one of the best workouts ever! It was perfect for strength training and had enough cardio to make it great for weight loss! You should really give it a try!

I used 10 pound weights. I don't have a medicine ball, so I just held one hand weight instead. It was challenging for me, but certainly doable. If you haven't been working out regularly, you can modify it easily with lighter weights and adapted movements.

If haven't tried Exercise TV before, you're missing out! They have lots of FREE full-length exercise videos. Here is the link to this workout: Make Me Over 40 Minute Workout with Steve Maresca.

Here is the link to ALL of their free workouts: Exercise TV Workout Video List.

Untraditional Workouts

2009-10-12T21:23:00.000-06:00

I'm so glad that the weather was beautiful today! I ran four miles and was neither cold nor hot. Ideal! Last week I had a hard time wanting to run outside because it was a little chilly. It wasn't even that bad, but I hesitate more to bundle up my kids for the cold.Anyway, one day I didn't feel like taking my kids out in the cooler weather, so I was about to do an aerobics video. Then, however, I thought about my little three year old and how I could probably play with him and get my exercise as well if I made a point to do so. I told him that I wanted to exercise and that he could decide what we did. It worked great! He'd say "Run!" and take off down the hall. We'd run around like banshees until he exclaimed, "Jump!" Then of course we would leap around as high as our legs could carry us. He also said things like, "Down on the floor!" which gave me the cue to do pushups. We did that for about fifteen minutes. Then my son found a long jump rope and wanted to create a game with it. We layed it down the hall and jumped mogul ski-style over the rope. It was a great workout. Try jumping like that for a few minutes straight and you will surely feel it. I finished off my workout with crunches and hand weights.
I need to continue running regularly, but periodically, this untraditional workout with my son will be perfect!On a side note, I thought I'd post this picture of my progress. I still weigh 151, but I can tell that I'm still slimming down even though my weight isn't dropping much. Hooray for success!

Admirable Strength

2009-09-29T21:03:00.000-06:00

Did anyone see The Biggest Loser tonight? It's one of the only television shows I watch. It's pretty motivational, which is why I like it. Sometimes there are contestants who just try to win the game, rather than help everyone win their lives back. I think it's unfortunate when people are just thinking of themselves and it just proves how insecure they are.
Tonight, however, there was an act of pure selflessness. I was getting all emotional watching Sean and Antoine gift Shay (and Daniel) another week on campus. They were determined to lose the weight and get healthy on or off the ranch, so that Shay who had the most to lose and who didn't have the support system at home could stay. What a show of strength to give up that once in a lifetime opportunity for someone else. It makes me SO HAPPY TO SEE SELFLESSNESS, especially on a show that is watched by millions.
These two are doing awesome at home too! They have lost 120 and 105 pounds so far and are still going strong! Antoine also had a little surprise in that he and Alexandra (the first eliminated contestant) have hooked it up and are really happy together. I am convinced that anyone who shows that kind of character and resolve is bound to be successful in most of what they do. I'm so impressed with them. What a great show!
Anyway, back to weight loss, one thing that helps make the Biggest Loser contestants really big weight losers is that Bob and Jillian help them build a ton of muscle. Muscle burns a lot more calories than fat. We can apply this too. Obviously cardio is great and necessary. Don't stop running, swimming or whatever else you do for aerobic activity, but be sure you don't forget to do strength training too. If you have a gym membership, then you have plenty of options for strength training. If you don't (like me), you can use hand weights and do arm exercises like these, ab workouts like these, work your glutes with these, or just do plain old push-ups, crunches and squats. It will be well worth it to spend a little time and strengthening.
Besides burning more calories, it also helps you feel stronger and look more toned.
Keep it up and you'll reach your goals!

Keepin' It Up!

2009-09-21T22:46:00.001-06:00

Well, I'm still 152. I have been really good at keeping up the exercise! I have been running about 5-8 miles per week. Now that I've been doing it so long, I really enjoy it. Back when I was just started out a weak half mile jog was quite the challenge, but not anymore. Running three miles at a time with my giant non-jogging DuoGlider double stroller with 55 pounds worth of kids is not even pushing myself very much. Okay, that's a lie. It's always a bit of a puch to get myself out the door, but it certainly is easier.

I need to keep better track of my calories again. When I really kept track, I made a lot better choices. One thing that I'm started again that really helps is keeping sugarless gum in the kitchen. When I'm in the mood for something sweet, I chew a stick of Stride. It usually satisfies my sweet tooth a lot better than real sweets.

The Biggest Loser just started again. That show is so motivating! I'm going to watch it and get so excited to live healthy!

Before and After

2009-09-08T15:57:00.000-06:00

Well, I am still 152 pounds. I've decided that it's good enough for now. Anyway, I had made it a goal to lose fifty pounds, but forty is pretty good, right? I'm actually down 58 from my pregnant peak! I'm within my recommended weight limit and just don't have the motivation to give up treats, so I'll just call it good. I'll start out with a photo the morning I delivered my baby. Can you tell I am so ready? I definitely was-all 210 pounds of me.

This is a very flattering picture, I know. Anyway, six weeks postpartum I still weighed an unfortunate 192 pounds. This next one is actually nearly two months later.

I had already lost 25 pounds and was down to 185. Pretty sad that "that" was 25 pounds down, but at least I was headed in the right direction. I guess I was only really 7 pounds down, because I don't really count the first six weeks' weight loss.
This next one was taken at the beginning of April when I was down to 172.

This was taken on Mother's Day (May 10) when I weighed in at 163 pounds.
This next one was taken on June 7 when I was down to 158 pounds.

July 3 I was to 155.
By August 6, I had reached 153.

I have basically just been maintaining since the beginning of August. Here is a full body shot of me at 153. I even had keys and my phone in my pockets.

Here is one more for side by side comparison.

Obviously I didn't take any specific before and after pics. I actually take almost all of our family photos so I'm hardly in any of them. I had pretty slim pickin's, which is why I'm zoning in half of these.

Well, I hope that if you feel like you look a bit like I used to, there is a lot of hope. Even if you're like me and can't seem to keep up the eating right forever, don't give up the exercise. You'll feel so much better- inside and out!
Keep at it! I'll do what i can to keep at it too!

Help Me Please!

2009-08-03T14:48:00.000-06:00

Well, I've been nearly stagnant in my progress. I'm at 153.2, but that means I haven't even lost three pounds in the last month and a half. I have been fairly diligent about exercising, but lame about watching what I eat. Slurpees, ice cream and seconds of everything have just been a little too tempting lately.
Brad says I can go out and buy a bunch of new clothes when I reach the weight I intend to maintain, but not before. He doesn't want me to need to buy more again in another month or two. It makes sense.

I have lost almost 40 pounds since beginning my quest to get healthier in January. I just need to find the motivation to lose the last 11 pounds. The promise of a shopping spree is helping, but not always enough to get me to make small sacrifices now so that I can have the rewards later.

The one idea I have is that I will try to keep posting my weight on here. When The DailyBurn took over Gyminee, the widgets stopped working (supposedly it's temporary). I'll transfer that info onto an Excel graph and put it on this blog. I don't know that very many people read this, but hopefully I'll feel the pressure to make progress. (Click on the graph and you can see it bigger.)
Does anyone else have any other motivating ideas?

"Now You're Stong!"

2009-07-14T10:06:00.000-06:00

So this morning when my three-year-old Parker came out of his room at 6:45 a.m. his daddy was just getting dressed for work. This was our conversation:

Me: "Did you know that Daddy got up early and is already back from jogging?"

Parker: "Why did he get up in the night to go jogging?"

Me: "So that he could be strong."

Parker: "Daddy, now you're strong!"

I was thinking about how that is really true. One days jog doesn't make you instantly strong, but even one day shows mental strength. It prooves that you've got a strong will, because let's face it, it isn't usually easy to go out and exercise and when you do it, you deserve to be happy that you're self-discipined enough to make good choices, even when they're hard.
Are your strong today?

Still Progressing

2009-06-22T14:43:00.001-06:00

I'm still here and going strong. I've just been kind of lame about updating this blog. I'm down to 156. That means I'm down 36 pounds since mid-January and 54 since my peak at nine months pregnant.

I have still been eating right (mostly) and exercising regularly, except for last week when I had a bad cold. I haven't been as good about recording what I've been eating, but I'm determined to improve

A few Saturdays ago I ran the Heart of Hollday 5k with my mom. I hadn't run an organized race since a half marathon back in 2003, but it was great. We didn't push ourselves much; we made it in less than 36 minutes. Anyway, it was a lot of fun and made me want to run in more races.
I know that I kind of showed it in my last post, but it's amazing how much better I look since I've lost the weight. Chubby can be cute, but I sure feel a lot more beautiful slimmed down. It's pretty crazy that only three months ago I was 176, just over five months ago I was 192 and six and a half months ago I was 210 (still pregnant). It's pretty motivating for me to keep it up!

So, I am within my healthy body weight range now and have only 14 more pounds to go to reach my goal weight. At that point I can fine tune it to exactly where I want to be.

Slimming Down

2009-05-21T15:16:00.000-06:00

I don't know that these photos really illustrate my point, but I am pleased that my face is really slimming down. I don't know that I was super-chubby post-pardum, but I certainly look better now. I'm pretty sure that my face is even a little slimmer now, but I'll wait a month until I'm in the mid-150s (hopefully).

My body is following suit. I didn't take any specific before pictures, or progress pictures either, so I can just pull from random photos. I'll save the full body before and after photos for later.

Glad I Gained a Pound

2009-05-12T10:13:00.000-06:00

Why, you might ask, would I be glad that I gained a pound? Well, let me tell you. I love the idea that I AM IN CONTROL of my body. I didn't keep track of my meals for the past three days over Mother's Day weekend and I only exercised a little. I was somewhat consciencious about what I was eating, but, like I said, I didn't keep track. What comes of that? I gained weight.

I feel like it's good for me to see the results of my actions. I had been doing so well with working my bootie off exercising with high intensity 4-6 times a week and was keeping track of every bite to make sure I met my calorie goals. The result: I lost 28 pounds and was a lot stronger. The last couple days, I have witnessed the results of being too lax. I guess it will be one of those five mile days with lots of toning afterwards. I'm sure that I'll like the consequnces of today's actions better!

It's So Easy to Get Discouraged

2009-04-30T21:18:00.000-06:00

In these days of instant technology, sometimes it's hard to be patient. It's hard to convince myself to run just one more mile or to stay away from the sweets, because the results aren't instantaneous. It may take several days to even lose one pound. I have to sacrifice the delicious taste of chocolate now to be in better shape later.

Comparing yourself to others is never a good idea. It's almost always discouraging to at least one of you. It's tricky when you know people who seem to have things so easy. It may not be true, in fact I'm sure it's not, but it seems that way sometimes. It can be rather disheartening. It's much better to compare yourself to an earlier you and see your progress. For weight loss, think of your fattest you and the progress you've made. Think of how ridiculously out of shape you were at your worst point and how far you've come. NOW THAT IS ENCOURAGING!

For those of you you know me well, know that I am really into self-discipline. I like to be proactive and use my time and resources well. For the most part, I look at my weight-loss/fitness goals as another way to demonstrate my self-discipline. I don't have a personal trainer, but I don't need one. I have the basic knowledge and can push myself. I can think back to mid-January when I was six weeks postpartum after baby number two. I weighed 192 pounds and it was all I could do to jog 2/3 mile pushing my double stroller. I've lost over 25 pounds and today I jogged with my enormous stroller for five miles. I still have plenty of room for improvement in speed, but look how far I've come.

If you get discouraged, which all of us will, just look back on what you have accomplished. Don't worry if your progress isn't the same as someone else, just do what you can. If you let your motivation slide for a few days, try to get it back. You'll be so glad.

There are actually benefits to having been overweight and "earned" yourself into shape. #1 You deserve to be proud of your accomplishment. It isn't easy and you are doing it. What self-discipline!
#2 You can have more self-confidence. If you can do something as hard as getting into shape, you can do anything. Plus, you'll look way better than before, so you won't be self-conscious.
#3 Hopefully you're lucky like me and know for a fact that people still loved you when you were overweight. Likely your friends love you for who you are and not just because your so good-looking. I am so grateful, by the way, that my sweet husband made me feel beautiful, even when I was a 210 pound pregnant woman. What a great guy!

Don't get discouraged and try to stay motivated. Keep up the great work!

Working out at Home

2009-04-26T00:53:00.000-06:00

So I was talking with some friends the other day. They were saying that they couldn't work out very frequently because they had their kids at home. They couldn't make it to the gym because of the kids and they couldn't go running because they didn't have a jogging stroller.

Well I currently have been getting a way better workout than when I had a gym membership. I have hand weights in 5 and 10 pounds, an exercise ball, two exercise videos and the internet. If you don't have the internet, just borrow some exercise videos from the public library or buy a few you like. Even if you have no equipment whatsoever, you can still do crunches, planks, lunges, push-ups, etc. and use your own weight for resistance. If you have access to the internet, which most of you must if you're reading this, then just start doing a couple of the free videos on www.exercisetv.tv. There ore over 100 full-length videos to choose from to sculpt and strengthen your entire body as well as lots of cardio. I have links to some of my favorites on the sidebar. Some of them are mildly cheesy in their phrasing, but they're pretty good exercise. If they're too easy, increase your weights.

If you are going to invest in one fitness item, I'd recommend 5 lb. dumbbells. You can get a set of two for $10-12 at Wal-Mart. You can tone your arms and increase the difficulty of your cardio workouts. Building muscle means you'll burn more calories, so make sure to do some type of strength training.

Anyway, I switch off going out jogging with my giant not-a-jogger double stroller, and just doing a couple workout videos. If you haven't tried them, give it a try.

Basically, I decided the biggest obstacle to getting in shape is not wanting to fully commit to it. If you are only half-hearted, then you may have a little success, but once you really decide your going to do it, then there is no stopping you. If you're like me, you'll become much more motivated and committed as you go along and see the difference in results when you are really giving your all. Once you're committed, you're willing to KEEP TRACK of your caloric intake and your exercising. You put exercise as a priority and make sure to do it regularly.
Good luck reaching your goals!

Baggy Pants

2009-04-25T13:23:00.001-06:00

Never before have I been so excited about wearing baggy pants. Not all of my pants are too loose, but I have a pair of jeans that I could barely button a couple months ago and now I'd have to wear a belt or they might fall off. SWEET! I still am only half way to my goal, so I'm not buying any new clothes yet, so for a few months my acceptable selection of clothing will be slim and maybe a little too loose, but I'm pretty excited about it!
Disclaimer: That is not me in the photo.

Motivation from a Buddy

2009-04-20T22:56:00.000-06:00

Hey, does anyone want to become my gymbuddy on gyminee? If you do, I'd love it! I'm extremely motivated, which is why I've been working my booty off, but I'd like to have a few friends who are working on the same fitness goals. Anyway, my username is angel_jen and I live in Ogden, Utah.

Eating Right Isn't Eating Only a Little

2009-04-15T13:53:00.000-06:00

I used to think that losing weight meant that I'd have to get used to eating only a little. Most portion sizes are pretty small and some of my slim friends eat like birds. I have found that doesn't have to be true. I don't have to be hungry all the time. If I'm hungry, then I eat. The trick is to know what you're eating.
I know I mention this in nearly every post, but KEEP TRACK of calories. I use Gyminee, but there a lot of options available for counting your calories for you. If you eat few calories than you consume, you will lose weight.
Start with figuring out what you usually consume and try to decrease it by a little, say 20% or less. (Gyminee will do these calculations for you.) If you used to eat out a lot, drink soda or chow down on candy or chips or other high calorie foods, you may want to gradually lower your calories over the course of a few weeks. Meanwhile, you can gradually increase your exercise. In my last post I mentioned a bunch of great low-calorie foods that offer good nutrition. The tricks to feeling full are protein and fiber. If you are eating enough of those, you shouldn't feel hungry at all. Be sure that you increase your fiber gradually, if you suddenly start eating a couple bowl of Fiber One every day, you might regret it.
After a few weeks, you should be able to look back and see how quickly you're losing the weight. Your goal should be no more than 1-2 pounds per week. I know that they pull big numbers on The Biggest Loser, but we aren't constantly supervised by medical professionals. Besides, most of us don't have hundreds of pounds to lose. If you are losing weight too slowly, lower your calories or up you exercise, or both. If you are losing too quickly, be safe and slow down. Quick results might seem great, but you'll feel a lot better if your smart about your weight loss.
As you are keeping track, you will learn which foods offer more bang for your buck, so to speak. You'll be able to eat when you want, as long as you make good choices. That doesn't just mean celery. Be sure that you are keeping track that you get enough protein and other nutrients. You might even want to take a multi-vitamin to be sure your getting enough vitamins and minerals.
Good luck reaching your goals!
On another subject, I really like this "Dorm Room Workout". I usually use 5 to 10-pound dumbbells with it. (There is a link to it in the favorite workouts list.)

It's been Working For Me

2009-04-15T13:06:00.001-06:00

Well, I certainly haven't been losing weight at any record pace, but I have been losing it consistently for the last few months. I haven't taken any diet supplements or used any other miracle tricks. I have done it with diet and exercise alone.

To start things off, here are a few links to helpful charts and calculators. It's helpful to know the healthy weight range for a given height and about how many calories you burn without exercise (BMR). I am 5 feet 6 1/2 inches, so 126 - 158 is my healthy weight range. My BMR is about 1580 calories. (Remember, as you lose wight, your BMR changes. It has dropped by 70 calories in the last few months.) Now you need to exercise to raise the amount of calories you can consume, or eat less than that. I exercise 4-6 times a week and usually eat a few hundred calories more than that.

Now that you have figured that out, what to do now? Let's start with diet. When I say diet, I don't mean starving myself or boycotting certain foods. What I do mean is calculating about how many calories I burn and consuming less. Even if I want to eat some deep-fat fried thing loaded with sugar on occasion, it can be done, but for the most part I don't waste my calories. The most important thing is to KEEP TRACK. I use gyminee to do it free online. I just type in what I ate and it keeps track of the grams of protein, carbs and fat along with the total calories. It lets me have fractions of servings and I can even create my own foods. This makes it easy to see what I'm eating and how the calories are distributed.

Be very careful about eating out. Check out the calories before you go so that you can make a good choice. Every once in a while you may opt to have a free day, but be sure to make that very rare. I end up having only about one or two per month and I try to have really good cardio workouts on the day before, of and after if possible.

Let me just share some recommendations on foods I eat often. These help fill me up, without maxing out on calories. Some healthy foods I like are lowfat cottage cheese, oatmeal, egg whites, Green Giant Steamers, South Beach Protein Bars, Great Value BeneFit Fiber Bars or Fiber One(Oats 'n Chocolate is good), South Beach Fiber Chocolate bars (taste divinely good, but aren't quite as filling), Western Family Non-Fat Yogurt, Progresso Light Soups, and Special K. I also like fresh, steamed or boiled veggies and fresh fruits, especially apples. If I get the muchies or a craving for something sweet, I chew sugar-free gum like Stride or Orbit. This is by no means a comprehensive list, nor are these foods ideal for everyone. These are just some of the low-calorie foods I enjoy. If you eat wisely, there is no need to feel hungry. The important thing is to read food labels and keep track of what you eat.

Another tip I discovered. Make sure eat enough in the morning. At first I tried to save my calories for later in the day, but I discovered that if I only ate a little for breakfast and lunch, then I'd be fine until dinner and then be hungry all evening. Most of you probably know this already, but if you skip meals, your body slows its metabolism. It's actually better to eat 5 or 6 small meals rather than three larger ones. This wasn't a problem for me, but I know people who think skipping is good. It's not. Also, be sure to drink a lot of water. Keep track of that too.

The next step is up your exercise. Find something active that you enjoy if possible. That will motivate you to do it. If you can find a friend to go with you, even better. Trying to mix it up is helpful. I often go running, but I change my strategies. Sometimes I time myself to see how fast I run a mile, sometimes I jog 4-5 miles. Still other times I do one minute intervals sprinting/brisk walking. By mixing it up, I make my exercise more effective and more interesting. I own a few workout videos, but I am definitely more motivated to exercise when I try something new. Online you can watch a bunch of free workout videos. I make sure to get cardio and strength training. I don't have a gym membership, but I have a few dumbells and an exercise ball. There are plenty of ways to work your muscles doing push-ups, crunches, sitting against the wall, etc. without going to the gym. Again, the important thing is to KEEP TRACK. You can also keep track of exercise on gyminee.

I am not a medical professional, so take it for what it is. I've just been asked how I am losing the weight without using any drugs or supplements. These are just some of the things that have been working for me.

Good luck getting healthy!

Toning Exercises

2009-04-01T16:09:00.000-06:00

This is a great article on how to firm up those buns and thighs. I just started trying it, but it feels like it's already working. If anyone else wants some tips on great exercises that can be done at home, check it out.

Here are links to great exercise video clips. Here are a few favorites I've tried:

Fat Burn

Celebrity Shred

Six-Pack Ab Calorie Burn

Bootylicious Buns

They have great names, huh? These are 10-18 minutes long, but they use the time well. If you're like me, you like to mix it up when you have to do aerobics. There is actually a lot of variety available free on the web. You can do several and still get done in an hour.

Have fun getting into great shape!

Getting Fit

2009-03-24T19:25:00.000-06:00

I can do it! So, this is rather embarrassing, but six weeks postpartum I still weighed 192 pounds. I set a goal to lose 50 pounds. I wasn't exactly sure how long it would take me. I knew I could do it in less than a year, but how much less I didn't know.

Anyway, I started exercising diligently 4-6 times a week. I've been running, rollerblading, doing aerobics and doing resistance training with weights. I started keeping track of my weight on Gyminee. After a while I got smart enough to start keeping track of my workouts and food so that I could keep track of my caloric intake.

I usually have my kids with me, so I just pack them in the double stroller- not a sleek jogger, but the gigantic kind that the carrier hooks into. It's basically like pushing a 70 pound shopping cart up the street. I figure it's great exercise that way. I've trained Parker to call out "Way to go, Mommy!" and "Go faster!"

I am proud to announce that I am 1/3 of the way to my goal. I am 175.8 pounds today. Yesterday was the ten week mark, so I've been losing just over 1.5 pounds per week. If I can keep up the same rate of weight loss, then I will be 2/3 of the way there (160 lbs.) by June 1st and meet my goal of 142 pounds by August 10, which fittingly is the week we're going up to Bear Lake on vacation.

Gyminee Chartsgreat free widgetsWidgetbox

Like I said, it's kind of embarrassing to admit my weight, but I'm making progress and that is what matters. Besides, maybe it will help motivate someone else. I am determined to get to a healthy body weight. It's empowering to know that I can do it.