Starting Somewhere
I have come to believe that writing down one’s goals (or drawing them, photographing them, collaging them or whatever feels right) actually works for me.
* If you haven’t tried this, please humor me and try it and let me know if you find it works for you. If you have tried it, and it has worked for you, please let me know I am not alone here. *
So, lately I am really doing my best to focus (2010 mantra) on my goals and was recently reminded of the effectiveness of writing them down by my new “friend”, Chalene Johnson.
Let’s start with the picture. I officially began my Beachbody workouts on February 1st (a little over three weeks ago) as fitness was number two on my 2010 Goal List (not very original, but that is OK).
This is me opening my box of ChaLEAN Extreme workout videos, bands, guidebook, food guide, etc. As you can see by my look, I had a few doubts and fears mixed in with the relief of actually admitting I had a problem (or several) and actually deciding to do something about it (them).
Chalene Johnson is “an entrepreneur, TV fitness personality, clothing designer, author, motivational speaker, choreographer, wife, mother of 2 and relatable girl next door”. In other words, the woman is an inspiration.
I “met” Chalene through my friends Bill and Lisa (who are very fit and fun people) when they suggested Beachbody to me after I mentioned my desire for a healthier lifestyle.
A year (or two, ahem) later I decided to go for it – I joined Beachbody and purchased my first workout program (see above).
I am not one to follow the latest fad. I just woke up one day, feeling extra sluggish and uncomfortable in all of my jeans. Even my overalls. Scary.
My struggle has always been with “big” thighs and hips, but now I had “muffin top” spilling over my jeans. Sorry for the visual; just trying to let you know how dire the situation had become.
For the past three weeks or so, I have been working out with Chalene, using her recipes, and listening to her “Extreme Motivation” CD.
I love this CD because it is like having a really good friend in the room with you whenever you want; telling you how great and capable and deserving you are.
Between the workouts and the constant motivation and the decreased carbs and wine consumption, (and perhaps most importantly, the support from the SO), I am feeling stronger and happier already.
I still beat up on myself but not anywhere near as much as Idid only weeks ago. I am just feeling….better all around.
If you are a member of Beachbody, please become my online buddy (I blog on their site, as well). No, I am not a Beachbody coach and no, I am not getting paid to talk about it. I just like to share what works for me.
If it works for you as well, then all the better; let’s be good friends and encourage each other, shall we? XOX
You will kick (out) some butt.
We expect photographic updates (well, that “muffin top” was a little TMI).
Better health in 2010!
If “muffin top” was TMI then you probably don’t want to see the “before” pics : ) In this weather, I can hide just about everything but the double chin…
Guess where we are going in less than two hours? That’s right – our first Italian Language class. I am really excited about this. Gotta take Milo out before the rain falls – good to hear from you, Sean!
Can I expect that when I visit we will be going to the beach with your new beachbody then? I am so proud of you for doing things to make yourself feel better. love you!
Yes you can – I am looking for a new summer swimsuit. Something more than a bikini and less than a built in skirt : ) Maybe a tankini!
I do feel better (stronger) after only three weeks of weight training. Thank you for being such a supportive friend. I love you too and can’t wait to see you again! V
So glad you’re going to the Italian language class! That’s very, very exciting!!
Our Professore has a sense of humor and the class is small and I really think I can do this bilingual thing. Can’t wait to be bantering with the Chianti locals! XOX to Oliver for me…
One month down and a few pounds lighter. The strength training still leaves my muscles sore which leads me to believe that my body is slowly working it’s way back to lean…
My goal this week is to not lax once Friday comes. Typically I treat myself to drinks, etc. over the weekend. Last weekend I had three vodka drinks and two glasses of wine and I still feel yucky (Tuesday).
So, for now…no more of this “good during the week, bad on the weekends” stuff. I think it really sets me back.
Hey there! I’ve got a big weight loss goal as well. I’ve lost about 10 pounds since the beginning of the year so far. My big thing is to get in a range of ideal weight, but not an exact number. I’ve noticed that I can fluctuate by 3 or 4 pounds up or down depending on the time of day, how much wine I’ve had, how many carbs, etc. I’ve made working out such a priority now. What really motivated me was to find out that our President is currently much taller than I, but also he is lighter on the scales. If such a busy man can be so physically fit….I can do it too!
I love that you were motivated by our President, Heather! His favorite sport is B-ball, yes? What are your favorite excercises?
As for weight, I think you are smart not to obsess over a certain number. With my height and build, I really look skinny when I weigh anything under 150. I always envied those who could say they weighed 125 but that would not be attractive on me at all!
I struggle with the wine/carbs as well…or the amount of which I consume to be specific. I really have to watch the stuff that breaks down into sugar.
Today is Friday and I very much want to “take the weekend off” so to speak. It seems I know longer have that luxury; alas. It takes me too long to get back on track.
So, I am going to do what I said I would and make healthy living a lifestyle choice instead of treating it like a part-time job : ) Let’s keep each other posted on our progress!