Workout 42 of 2011 (Ripped in 30 Level 2)

My current favorite snack!

Today I decided to return to Ripped in 30 level 2.  It still kicks my butt :).  My bloodsugar has been so great the last couple of days that working out did not seem to be in the cards, but today I ate my FAVORITE snack, waited 30 minutes and then was able to workout!  It felt great to work on my fitness--as cheesy as that sounds, I mean it 100%!

Workout 41 of 2011 (Six week 6-pack level 1)

A year ago today, I did my very first Jillian Michael's workout.  A year ago today, I discovered that there was a type of workout that did not bore me.  A year ago today, my life changed.  I went from being someone who loathed working out to someone who looked forward to it.  I firmly believe you have to find what you love and that's what works.  Circuit training is what works for me.

I still remember the desperation I felt when the baby weight was not coming off.  I had tried various options and had even worked out most days in April and did not lose any weight.  I am so glad I had to go through all the struggle of losing the weight because through that journey I discovered a workout system that I could commit to for life.  I finally found my style of working out.  If not for all the failed attempts, I might never have figured out that I LOVE working out.

I did not realize today was the anniversary, otherwise I would have done the 30 Day shred for old time's sake.  Instead, I did Jillian's Six week 6-Pack level 1.  It was a good workout though I do have to modify some of the exercises that hurt my joints.  It's amazing to me that almost a year ago, I almost gave up the 30 Day Shred because my joints couldn't handle the jumping jacks, high knees, jumprope, etc.  I recall crying on the couch because my knees and ankles would not cooperate during my 3rd or 4th workout.  I was so distraught that I had finally found something I loved and I could not physically do most of the cardio moves.  Thankfully, I realized that cardio is cardio and I ended up modifying that portion of the circuits by hopping on my elliptical.  I still do that when necessary.

Workout quote of the week (see the connection): "Don't let what you can't do interfere with what you can do" – John Wooden, UCLA Basketball Coach

Happy Easter!

Here's a picture of us on Easter 2010 (which actually was over a year ago since Easter is a lot later this year)

Here's a picture of me with the kids this year (hubby had to work).

It's amazing how much my hard work has paid off!  I'm so proud of myself!  I hope my success inspires others to go after their goals and accomplish what they want.

Happy Easter!

Tip of the Week ~ Drink water!

The cup that makes this water-hater drink 70 ounces a day!

Did you know that the eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day is just a general statement to encourage people to drink water?  All of our bodies are different which means all of our bodies need different amounts of water.  I used to try to follow the 64 ounces of water a day rule until I discovered that there's a better way to know how much water I needed.  It's better to do it based on body weight.

Take your body weight (say 140 pounds)
Divide it in two (70)

For a 140 pound person, 70 ounces is the magic number.

I realize that's awfully close to the 64 ounces, but not everyone weighs 140 pounds.  When I was trying to lose weight in college and then again after having my second child, one of the key components that aided my weight loss was my water consumption.  When the body isn't hydrated, it can make you feel hungry when you are actually thirsty.  I notice that when I drink my target water ounces, I am less inclined to be hungry between meals, and I am less likely to have wild cravings for bad foods.

Now that I'm focused on being fit and healthy, I notice my energy level changes depending on how much water I've had.  I used to be one of those people that could go a week without an actual glass of water.  I do not like water but my body now reminds me on a daily basis that I need it.  So how does someone who HATES water drink 70 ounces of water a day?  EASY!  I have an awesome cup that I LOVE and only allow water in it.  I also have some bigger water holders that I keep on my desk at work to make it easy to refill my favorite cup when I run out.

Trust me, if you make yourself drink water, you will see a difference in your energy level and it will help prevent overeating!

Dress Shopping!

Yesterday I went Easter dress shopping which was way more fun this year than last year!  I found a dress for tomorrow and another more casual dress for fun.  Guess what sizes they were.... Size 6 and Size Small!  Now haters would say, "Well, that's just because those brands run bigger," but I don't care!  I have a dress that's clearly labeled Size 6 and now 2 that are Size Small!

I think it's safe to say I'm no longer a size 10 as NONE of my size 10 stuff fits (besides dresses which do usually run small).  I think I shall now refer to myself as a 6/8 instead of an 8/10.  :)  LOVE IT!

40% of the way there! Workout 40 of 2011 (Ripped in 30 Level 1)

Today is a big day!  My 40th workout means I'm 40% done with the goal of 100 workouts in 2011!  I'm super-excited that I'm sticking with it even after having some slacky weeks.

Today, I returned to Jillian.  Because I had not had a full 24 hours of recovery between workouts, I did level 1 and it was HARD.  Note to self: never do 2-a-days!  

I just have to say, it felt good to be back with my favorite trainer. :)

Workout 39 of 2011 (The Trainer's Edge: Integrated Strength Training)

Tonight I decided to try yet another Netflix Instant-Play workout entitled The Trainer's Edge: Integrated Strength Training with Jeffrey Scott.  I figured by the title, it would offer workouts similar to Jillian Michaels', and I was correct.  Basically you keep your heart rate up by being in constant motion while working with the weights.

The workout offered 3 levels to each move with one back-up girl doing level 1, one doing level 2 and the host doing level 3.  It was a decent workout though not nearly to the caliber of Jillian's.  I did break a sweat and may consider doing it again sometime when I need some variety, but I prefer Jillian's circuit style.

To be honest, my reason for not doing a Jillian workout tonight is because I'm scared.  I've had almost a week off from her and I'm afraid of feeling out of shape when next I workout with her.  Sad but true!