Planning Out The New Year

This is a journey and I don't always stay on the right path. July 2011 had been 9mos after I had my 4th baby. It took me nine months to grow a baby, another 9months to heal and to even begin working out. I had tried 6mos postpartum and failed misserably. Not for lack of effort but too much effort. All or nothing has always been my motto and that really has got to go if I'm ever to reach my HappilyEverAfter.

Up until now... Gungho was pretty much the attitude. Back in middle school, high school, college, even in the military I learned if you go all out the results will come. Sort of like if you build it they will come. I never really had to watch what I ate, the closest to counting calories was having time restrictions in the ARMY, they didn't have awesome food choices but you only had 5-10min to eat if not less. Even then on cheat days we'd get sick from over indulging in junk food if we ever got our hands on it. That was a huge sign pointing to a major food issue. I don't know why I never saw a problem with that before. I know why, I was thin, muscular, and fit in my own eyes.

Unhealthy Thoughts. Even though I looked good at 143lbs, I was not the healthiest, I didn't care about what went in my body. I took ephedrine type diet pills, water weight reducers, drank, smoked even (I just thought I was cool) and wanted to be bulimic and even tried it out several times in highschool. I would workout excessively. I equated being thin with self worth and beauty.

I saw super thin girls thinking they were super happy and was never happy with myself. In college I once threw up every meal for a full 2 weeks or so. I thought that was weak and I a failure because the goal was to keep going. I just loved food and eating too much. I'd go all day not eating, then breakdown and eat a massive meal just to throw it all up. I'd party (drink excessively) to numb my feelings and mark the days on my calendar as a reward system.

As a little girl probably 6 or 7 I couldn't wait to grow up and take dexatrim. I'd seen it on commercials, saw fat people become skinny. Watch them go from sad to happy, and couldn't wait to be 18 to buy it. I even was disappointed when they stopped making it for health reasons. They now have different types where I guess they took out an ingredient but it's the same "magic pill" system. I was really sick (in the head) and those thoughts still linger even today occasionally.

I am a mother of 2 beautiful girls, because of them I don't want to pass this sick way of thinking on to them. They see me wanting to get strong and see me as beautiful, if I tell them it's a lie and I'm not beautiful unless I weight 120lbs then they'll think the same about themselves.

My body is getting older and treating right is high a big priority now. I'm 30 soon to be 31 and my back feels much older. I can see where incorrect form for some exercises has inhibited me from some movements. I just started to do lunges correctly this year. After having 4 kids my abs have pulled away from my back so regaining a strong core is definitely key.

My New Philosophies...

• Consistency over Intensity
  Instead of being so hard on myself to intensify my workouts I just want to get them done. When I think about getting in 5-6 workouts per week I want to revert and do crazy HIIT stuff every day. My body will shut down and I start freaking out the first day I miss one of the workouts. I then get so overwhelmed that I throw the whole week. It's backwards I know, but it's how I work. Instead I try to focus on doing something every day. I know not to do 2 Tabata Days in a row but I can do cardio on off days like walk away the pounds.
• Cool it with the Challenges
  Even though they've brought me great results, the momentum I thought would continue fizzles out. 2011 challenges included the Reboot juice fast, 30DShred, 60DSD, 30days of S5F, Winter100, and I almost agreed to start the 60Day Slim Down again, this is all since July of this year. I'm a nut for challenges!!! I get so hyped up and that energy to be in the group of those doing it doesn't translate to actually doing the work.
   
• Drink More
  Drinking enough water has been a struggle for me all my life. If not exerting myself physically I may not drink one glass of water all day, instead I'll eat more and drink sugary juices and get headaches, feel sluggish, and moody. Really moodiness is directly linked to my water intake. That was hard for me to believe until I really paid attention. I have this water bottle with a straw (love my straw!!!) that holds 4 cups of water. Ideally I'll drink one in the morning during and after my workout and another bottle throughout the rest of the day.
• Eat Clean Eat Right
  I'd love to just go through all the cabinets, clear out the junk, and replace it all with only good food choices. I know Processed, MSG, and GMO riddled food entering my body and my family's body is like have a ticking time bomb set to 30 or more years. It'll explode with heart disease, cancer, and fat.   I'll write more later about why I'm grateful to my fat. People think it's such a bad thing, it may be ugly but it's purpose is truly amazing. My fat has stored the toxins I've been consuming and kept them away as best as it can. It's my body's life raft. If you're in danger of drowning in the ocean you're grateful for something that floats and fat floats.

Moving forward my goal is to be healthy, I want to be toned and strong so I can fight an attacker. I want to run fast in case one of my babies needs me or is taken. I want to be healthy to put my back in the shape God intended it to be in when he made me. Our bodies are magnificently made and can heal on their own only when given the right tools.I want to be ready for anything, that's what living HappilyEverAfter truly means to me and I'm excited to get there and share here for others to join me.

♥Christy,
HappilyEverAfter

HomeFitness Gone Social

We have all seen the explosion the social networking movement has brought, Myspace, Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, Linkedin, the list goes on and on. The new fitness trend, at least what I've seen with the moms I know, is to skip the gym and workout at home. Social fitness is where it's all at. Like beachbody, biggest loser, Zumba, and other dance games for gaming consoles. Now I'm seeing a lot of personal trainers who train via skype, social sites, and email. Encouragement doesn't have to be done face to face to be affective these days. This really appeals to me as a mom of 4 who can't just get out to a gym without tagging along a few babies, diaper bag, stroller, etc.

So I turned to Youtube. I find a ton of great free works, walk away the pounds star Leslie Sansone has a new or same but new name walk at home system. Granted someone uploaded her set, I watch and follow along on youtube and have 5miles 3x Week.

Holly 7wks Postpartum
already back at prepreg shape!

In my quest for finding kettle bell and tabata workouts on youtube I ran into Holly Rigsby a personal trainer who helps women lose weight in their own homes with DVDs, online videos, and socially through her online fit club forums. She is the founder and trainer at FitYummyMummy.com. Just reading her story inspires me to get up from the computer and joining. I signed up for her newsletter and received an invite to join for just $1. Now that's exciting!!!

************************
$1 Trial Membership

Because I don't see the link anywhere on the site,
I'll only leave this up for a limited time.

************************

I encourage you to sign up and utilize this month gift as an after Christmas present for yourself. I'm going to sign up for the month to try it out. Who knows, at less than $20 a month it may stick around until the unwanted lbs come all the way off. Holly has downloadable workouts each month, achievable meal plans, and accountability the most important factor I've found in my own HEA journey. Let me know if you try it out, I want to compare results and successes.

Good news!! I've been losing lbs since the scale has moved to the attic. I knew inches were gone but it's still nice to see the lbs gone as well. Weight is really overrated because you could be above your goal weight but appear smaller and more tones. That's the power of muscle.


♥Christy,
HappilyEverAfter

Indoor Walking, Is it Legit

Steady on with this Winter 100 challenge but I'm seeing myself get behind. Why? It's just plain getting cold outside and now I'm asking myself why in the world did I sign up for this. I just don't feel like running. Cue the violins, here are my excuses...

My shoes are falling apart.

Literally they are, the soles are bending back on themselves, holes in the side walls.

It's cold.

I'm already cold natured

My kids.

They have like a 6th sense and know as soon as my feet hit the floor. in the morning

The dogs.

They bark and I can't take them with me or else I get a bicep cramp from pulling at the leash

It's cold, I know I already said that one but... These excuses are depressing me. 

This week has been rough and I think it's from not getting that runner's rush I was getting used to. Since Dec. 1st I had ran at the least every other day and this week a dead halt. So fine I don't want to be outside, I don't have a treadmill or eliptical so what do you do? Walk Away the Pounds with Leslie. Okay being outside was awesome, I don't want the stress of leaving my 4 kids at home with my sleeping hubby who works 10hrs or with dogs who will whine while I'm gone. So being outside is just not an option right now.

In high school my mom had me up at 5am to workout with her. We'd do Walk Away the Pounds with Leslie Sansone. The good news is 3 miles will only take you about 30min. Not bad for an in home work out. This isn't anywhere near the intensity level as tabatas (my new love) but it'll get my miles in. This is definitely legit, yes it's in place but you will feel the burn in your legs. The sweat will poor, not as quickly but you'll feel it and probably be sore the next day.

I'm looking to win that Garmin, the cold will not stand in my way. I've felt super bad about letting myself down, I'm such a challenge freak that I'll say yes to almost anything. I then feel like a failure when I have to evaluate the decision and back out. So I'm not backing out.

December is the month to let it all out, like a last chance workout for the year. Let's face it I can't make up all I've lost these past few weeks now. I'll keep going and focus on steady goals. I checked, walking your miles is still following the guidelines for this challenge from The Running Mom. I've emailed her and awaiting her response to see if I'm still in the running, pun intended :)

Short on Time, Try Tabatas

First off I have to just say, I ♥ Tabatas!!! What are they? Have you heard of HIIT, High Intensity Interval Training on any workout infomercials lately? I have, but I've never heard of Tabatas until last month. Tabatas area  very high intensity little rest interval routine founded in Japan by a man named Izumi Tabata.

It can be used for both strength and cardio, and can be easily customized. It's designed to give you the same metabolic energy burn as a 40-60min workout except this takes just 20min. No lie, I just finished my first 4rounds of Tabatas and I feel the same as yesterday when I ran 3.5miles Couch25k style.

Tabatas, Let's Break it Down:

 ~ Work hard for 20sec

~ Rest for 10sec

~ Repeat 8x

1 Tabata = 4min

If you're doing more than one Tabata rest for a minute in between and start over.

I thought 4 rounds = 1 Tabata so I ended up doing 4 Tabatas in 20min.

How it works. Tabata and his team tested 2 groups for 6 weeks, one high intensity (170%) and the other moderate intensity (70%). One hundred and seventy percent?! Yikes, that's very Intense. They found that the group that trained at 170% for 4min 4xWeek and the group that trained at 70% for one hour 5xWeek both had a significant increase in aerobic systems (cardiovascular). However the Tabata group (170%) showed gain in the anaerobic system (muscle).

Most of us getting into fitness know muscle is a very important way to burn calories. Your metabolism works for you when you use your muscles effectively. This baffles me that athletes who worked out for so long didn't increase muscle. Those athletes in group 1 would need to add toning and strength exercises to increase muscle on top of what they were already doing.

UPDATE: If done with the right Intensity Tabatas can continue to burn calories up to 36hrs later.

Plan it out! Today I really didn't have one. I just wanted to get it done. I started a running goal of 100 miles this winter December 1st with the intent to run 5x a week. Yeah, right! I don't know what I was thinking. I want to end this year hard and smart. Tabatas will be my go to on days I'm not running. They're fun, short, and effective. I ended up doing most of these once or twice and in no particular order. After researching Tabatas and HIIT style workouts you should stick with 1-2 exercises per Tabata.

Cardio Options	Strength Options
Squats Jumping Jacks Reverse Lunges High Knees Scissor Jacks or Skiers Jumping Jack Press (like the jj except your arms go up like a press)	Wide Arm Pushups (reg) Triceps Pushups Pushups with One Arm Rows Bicep Curls with Reverse Lunges Squats with Dumbbell rows etc.

Form is Key! When moving your body you have to make sure you're moving it in the way it moves best. Especially with faster movement you must be sure your form is on point. In the videos I linked below you'll see everyone using near perfect form. I'm no expert but holding your abs in will train your abs to stay in. Right? For example, when you squat, you knees should never come over your shoe laces. This was always said to us in basketball practice, we were young then. Who was thinking about their knees? Now in my 30's I'm working on making a body that will last to see my great great grand children (that's happily ever after).


Free Online videos:
You'll need a timer. Here's a free online one. www.TabataTimer.com
High Calorie Holiday Burn from FitHealthyMoms
12 Fat Burning 4min Workouts in real time by GenghisGirl on Youtube

Tabatas are definitely the World's Fastest Workout...

Now Go Get Your Tabata On! Watch these videos for ideas then customize it for yourself. Hopefully I saved you a Google search because I think you'll get hooked pretty fast like I did. Have fun on your way to Happily Ever After!


Tabatas are not for those who have high blood preassure or have suffered heart attacks/strokes in the past. This high level of intensity is very taxing on the heart. 


Resources:
http://tabatatraining.org/?p=18
http://www.fithealthymoms.com/2011/04/11/tabata-workout/
http://legym.blogspot.com/2010/10/to-tabata-or-not-to-tabata-by-marie.html

Winter 100 Challenge by: The Running Mom

I seem to be a sucker for challenges. That's the only way I can get myself motivated and committed. Kristen - aka The Running Mom is every where, facebook , twitter, and at www.The-Running-Mom.com. The funny thing is I ran across her blog and thought, that's not for me. I want to run but I can't commit to 100miles in 3 months. Let me just break that down...

Winter 100 Miles Challenge 

100 miles in 3 months (91 days)
31 days in Dec, 31 days in Jan, 29 days in Feb

I'm only planning to run 5xWeek
63 running days out of 91 100miles/63running days ~ 1.6miles
~ 1.6miles per running day = 100.8miles

This is a tad big intimidating for someone who hasn't run since July. Prior to that month I'd not run in 10 years. Before even knowing about the challenge and just wanting to get myself back running I started the c2k yesterday, the exact same start day for this challenge. God had me in the right place .)

I actually love running. After my military training I came back getting up at 3am to run because I wanted, not the case while I was on base. I miss that and have missed it since I stopped, I got LAZY! As a final act of ending this year right I began and ran half of my training yesterday. Today I was determined to run the full interval and did that plus more.

Just 29 days to end this year on your own terms. Want to join me? Sign up here, make sure to read the rules and requirements. There are some great prizes to be won as well. The list will be updated so check here from time to time to see more. **This is a giveaway/contest that I've entered. This is not my event**

Of the prizes posted, these are my faves...
(crossing my fingers)

Garmin – you can win a Garmin Forerunner 210

Ryders Eyewear – win a pair of sunglasses

Go Sport ID - 2 will win a gift certificate towards a Go Sport ID

Bye-bye Before 2011

Hello Happily Ever After 2012-2013

30DayShred by Jillian Michaels

Challenging my self another month with Jillian's 30Day Shred and just in time for the Holidays. Thanksgiving is a few days away with Christmas not far behind. After my last challenge (posts here) I faced my first taste of defeat. I gained 3lbs. You may be thinking, that's not a lot. When it takes a 15lb loss to 10lb it's a big deal. I've played the if-game. What if I'd just said no to the Halloween candy, what if I didn't take all those days off in between challenges, what if? It does me no good, so my motivation for this next 3lbs is, I've lost you before I can lose you again Boo-yah!! Yeah I talk to my fat like that.

This momma is on a mission and I've hired Jillian to be my tour guide. 
There are some things to know about this workout. She allows for very little rest. You are supposed to complete the entire 30days in a row. I'm a firm believer in giving your body a rest, otherwise mine would shut down in the middle of the challenge and I'd have to start all over. Now granted you'll only be working out 20min a day. So I think I could do it non stop I just don't want to take that chance.

There are 3 phases in this set. Each a little harder than the previous one. Each to be completed in 10days. In between each exercise you're allowed to rest no more than 10-15 seconds. If you get tired you're to take a break no longer than 5sec. It's designed to keep you moving to maximize the effectiveness in such a short time frame. After a few days you'll start to feel stronger. My first day I felt challenged at the beginner level, now I find myself attempting to stay with the advanced level.

Instructor Comparison
It's hard to compare styles of all the different instructors. Jillian gets a bunch of slack for talking throughout this DVD. Some people like this while others are turned off. Instead of doing the workouts with you she's explaining each movement at each level. This can bothers those who don't like to be talked at while working out. I'm used to this style coming from the military with drill sergeants and growing up with militant sports coaches. It makes an instructor easier to follow if they're doing the moves with you.
Read my Overweighted post about how tracking goals with lbs can be misleading.
Tweeted the other day about my scale, it's MIA. The hubs hid per my request and I will not be venturing into the attic to find it. I'm excited and scared to move forward not knowing my weight. I'll be tracking inches weekly from now on instead of weighing daily.

Challenge Beginning Stats:
I began this challenge mid week on and got a total of 5x that week so we'll count it as beginning on  11/13/11. I'm only including my weight as this was the last week I weighed myself (lbs). This will be a great post to come back to in a few months.

Arm: 13	Chest: 40.5	Neck: 13	Waist: 35
Navel: 38.5	Hips: 39	Leg: 23	Calf: 16	Weight: 210

Updated results will be posted
after 12/13/11

Phase 1
For the 1st 10 Days I followed phases 1 and 2 workouts. This was Thanksgiving weekend so I took 2 days off instead of my planned one day of rest. I'm not strictly following Jillian because I get bored very easily. So I knew I wouldn't follow the phase 1 workout for a full 10days.

Comparing the first 2 phases I'd def say the 2nd is more challenging. However they are both great quick 20min routines you can do if you're pressed for time.

Phase 2
I started the 2nd 10 Days with phase3's workout and I literally cried. If you knew me lately you'd know I tend to cry a lot when the workout really pushes me to the edge. It's not that it's terribly hard and I can't do it. What kills me is knowing this used to be apart of my daily routine. Granted this was over a decade ago but my memory doesn't compute time. My mind thinks my body should be doing this stuff without a sweat and my body is like, are you kidding me?

How I Gained 80lbs | A decade in Review

Changing the way I think about my weight has been a huge obstacle for me. Making such a big change in your body and taking back control of your health can be hectic for awhile and with over 50lbs to lose it seems impossible. First I have to take a look back, how did I really get here. It was not over night, so I can't honestly think I can lose it so quick. I mean I have to think how long it took me to gain an extra 80lbs.

I was tall and slender much like an average kid. I started to gain weight in middle school, so my mom put me in sports. That saved me for awhile and pushed off the inevitable. I say inevitable because of the way I ate. Everyday I had chocolate milk, pizza, french fries, JUNK. I didn't see the consequences then, let me tell you habits like that rear their ugly heads sooner or later.

Let's break it down, beginning at the point in my life where I started to gain and not lose.

+20lbs 160lbs Just Married - 2003

160lbs -The hubs and I got married in 2003, this was prob the last time I felt sort of comfortable with my body. I probably had 15-20 lbs more than I liked but I don't recall worrying about my stomach in shirts or my thighs. I was 22yo and marrying my best friend. I believed I weighed near 160.

+50lbs 190lbs after 2005
Couldn't find a pic of me .)

180lbs - Then in 2004 we had our first child, a beautiful baby girl. I started out 40lbs overweight and gained a whopping 50lbs with that pregnancy. Most of it could have probably been avoided and my doctor even said to push away from the table that I'd been overeating. I don't think I was doing anything different so that sort of hurt my feelings. I was just stuck in old habits of not stopping when I as full and it really showed. Plus I retained tons of water and dropped 30lbs within a week after the birth. I never got back down to 180, but was 190 (a 10lb gain).

+60lbs 200lbs  after 2nd child 2007

190lbs - In 2005 we got pregnant again and I gained just as much weight, so afterwards with 2 kids I was 200lbs. In my head the lbs were just racking up. First I was 40lbs over, then add 10lbs per kid and I felt defeated. When our 2nd child was 1yr I decided to start working out. My mom would come over and we do Turbo Jam 2-3x a week together.

~75lbs 214lbs after 3rd child 2009

210lbs -Fast forward to 2008 to my 3rd pregnancy. I knew something was different this time. I only gained 20lbs. Turns out my boys are better on my body, lol. But when it was all said and done in 2009 I weighed 214 before and after. I was a bit disappointed that I didn't lose at least 20lbs.

+75lbs 214lbs stayed consistent

214lbs - Before my 4th pregnancy Feb. 2010. This pregnancy was not a planned one. At this point I was approx. 80lbs overweight, in my mind that was equivalent to 100!!! I mean I really couldn't wrap my head around the fact that I was carrying 80 extra lbs.

+80lbs 220lbs 2011

220lbs - I decided things needed to change and quick. I got really depressed knowing I had now had 2 babies and had done very little with my health.

I started looking for workouts to do while pregnant and found Lindsay Brin's MomsIntoFitness. I didn't have the money to purchase her set but was really big into blog reviews and giveaways. I googl'd giveaways with her DVDs and actually won her Boot Camp 2. I then contacted MIF and proposed a review/giveaway for my Home-Mom.com site. I felt I was the perfect candidate and had gotten quite a few other reviews under my belt.

They said yes and in late July 2011 I wrote my review and began what is now the challenge to my Happily Ever After. I'm committed to doing this at home without a gym, instead bringing the gym home. I lost 7lbs and 9inches in 60days. Not the best results, but hey they were results.

Updated:

BeforeBabiesBody 2001	Before 2011	After TBA

**Here I was fresh out of the ARMY with a hand on my hip, toned, defined, and unhealthy. Skip to 2011, I'm a mommy with a baby on my hip. Let me make a prediction about 2021, I will be satisfied with what my hard work produces. It's not about lbs lost but about knowledge gained. God created me for a specific reason, I have to be around and healthy to fulfill it.**

That was the past! Now we're here in the present until it becomes my...

BEFORE Picture...

-10lbs 210lbs October 2011. 

My Kids need an up-close and personal live role model. Who better than me to show them how to live a healthy life. The cycle of bad eating habits ends here. With 4 kids (or more, lol) I've got to be able to run. No matter how strong I am, I can't play or protect my children huffing and puffing through life.

I've lost 13lbs, gained 3, and lost 3 again. I won't promise a perfect journey. I'm not perfect. I've promised myself to fall and fail forward. Here's to falling fwd and never giving up on yourself.

More to come on eating 'Clean' Eating, Juice Power, and Kid Friendly Recipes soon.

Need Support?

I've created a group on facebook to encourage, motivate, and celebrate Moms on their journey to regaining their BeforeBabyBodies. If you're a Mom with more than 50lbs to lose and you'd like support of those going through the same thing email me at GymbellaPr@Hotmail.com

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Halloween and BMIs

I really don't like using weight as a progress tracker but for now it's letting me know I'm headed in the right direction. It's now been a little over a week since my last challenge and I've gained 4lbs, GASP. What happened? Halloween happened. It was a day I knew I'd regret but turned into a week. I have 4 kids so there was some serious candy traffic in this house.

The problem never really happened until night time, all will power was lost. Plus night time means date/tv time with my hubby. As we watch UFC or catchy up on our favorite show on netflix I'd eat candy. We both ate but The Hubs has almost zero body fat. I on the other hand have a BMI of 34.1. Calculating in my beginning weight of 220, my BMI was 35.5 so there's a bit of progress.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

here are the BMI Categories :

Underweight = < 18.5

Normal weight = 18.5–24.9

Overweight = 25–29.9

Obesity = BMI of 30 or greater

I've been 200 or over since my second pregnancy and birth but have been overweight off and on during college. I was very athletic and active in grade school on up until high school. I lost all motivation after losing the chance to take the state champions, I wasn't going to play ball at a University because I knew I didn't have the work ethic, so I gave in and gained over the estimated freshmen 15.

I was disgusted with myself back then. Instead of seeing a problem and working toward a solution I loathed my body. What I wouldn't give to get to 160 now. Funny how that works. Then I thought nothing was worse and now I'm sitting at 211 after gaining 4 lbs from Halloween Candy. I'm not going to hate my body, I'm going to love and take care of it. I can now see it's the decisions I've made that have gotten me here, this body is not all I am. It's really been sort of trippy watching my self melt so far.

This week's workouts have included Zumba for the Wii, a 28min wo fromPostnatal Boot Camp, momsintofitness.com, and some FREE Kettlebell WOs I found on youtube. Marianne from www.myomytv.com offers some really great routines both for the novice and the experts. I love that she uses some massive weights to squat with, lift up, and swing; and yet her body isn't bulky or manish at all. Because I had poor weight lifting habits I bulked up in my legs, and arms. I would like a sleek non bulky body once I've reached my happily ever after. I really think kbs will keep me from bulking.

The rest of this week's wos will be tweeted. And before I forget I've started a group of Moms would like to lose 50lbs or more called Before and Happily Ever After. My ultimate goal is to reach 150 possibly and that's 61lbs away. Joining up with the gals has boosted motivation and my week's goal is to WO 5x, drink more than enough water, and really focus portion controls.

Until next week, keep pushing towards your goals.

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Shed 5 Fast Challenge: The Results

H

ere I am after 4 weeks using Lindsay Brin's Shed 5 Fast DVD series and

the Results are in...

Day1 / Day28 / Difference

Weight

213 / 209 / 4 lbs

Arm

14.5 / 14.5 / 0 inches

Chest

41.5 / 41.5 / 0 inches

Waist

35 / 35 / 0 inches

Navel

42.5 / 39.5 / 3 inches

Hips

40 / 40 / 0 inches

Leg

23 / 23 / 0 inches

Calf

16.5 / 16.5 / 0 inches

For a total of: 4lbs lost and 3 inches.

I have no doubt if I'd finished out strong I'd have lost a full 5 if not more lbs and more inches. Still on my way to Happily Ever After .)


For a recap you can go back to the beginning...

Day1 | Day2 | Day3 | rest | Day5 | Day6 | rest 

Week2 | Week3 | Week4

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Final Week: Shed 5 Fast Challenge

Oct. 31st - Nov. 6th

Have I really made it to week 4? OMGoodness, I'm really proud of myself. I mean I know me and I didn't think I could do it. I really didn't know how it would all end and it's still not over yet. My body is tired, and I've taken a nap 2 days in a row, a hard feat with 4 kiddos not napping at the same time.

My thoughts are already racing about challenging myself after this is over. Running a marathon keeps coming up. Some gals keep talking of 5ks, cycling, and running. It makes me want to join. Running is the best thing I could do for my body and it's nice and cool with fall in full effect. I just don't like running in my neighborhood, besides going up and down a HUGE and steep hill I'll have to run in a fairly small circle. Excuses, excuses, I know.

Here We Go, Going to Finish Strong!

Day22: S5F Workout #2
As of today October 31st I've lost 15lbs and 20.5 overall inches. Wow! That's 5lbs a month, now I'm thinking in just a few months I could see the other side of 200 again. It's been over 5yrs since I've weighed 200lbs or less so I'm pretty excited. Today was the lovely Halloween.

Day23: Cardio Option B (same as Day16 from week3 here)
I tried to do this with very little resting in between each rep. I couldn't do a full round but did 3min non stop then rested only a min to begin again. Some of the exercises have gotten doable but are still hard and difficult. So I did as many mountain climbers in a row then finished strong with push ups. Plank twisters were impossible to do so I did plank boomerangs without resting. The 24min exercises took me ~30min.

I had read somewhere that if you limit your rest time in between you'll increase your resting metabolic rate. Increasing how many calories you burn during rest times. Every little bit counts.

Day24: S5F Workout #2 + 10min of CardioA 
I am getting stronger! After trying to adapt a no/low rest approach I'm amazed at my stamina. S5F2 is no longer my favorite of the 2 DVDs in this series. That means it's working and challenging me beyond the point of comfort. I woke up before my kids and got my workouts in, success.

CardioA was not hard at all after dealing with B the past 2 weeks. I did all 5 1min exercises in a row non stop and rested only in between the 2 sets. It consisted of half squats, jumping jack crosses, lateral skis, side squats, and mountain climbers. If for any reason I couldn't finish the goal I kept moving with regular jumping jacks, push ups, jogging in place anything to keep moving..

Day25: REST

Day26: S5F + 2lb heavier weights and Lindsay's 8min Abs
Sad to say this but I skipped this day and did some Zumba with my mom and kids instead. It was one of those, I should've gotten up earlier to get this wo in but didn't and never felt up to doing it later.

Day27: CardioD
I had good intentions but I didn't get to the wo in the end

Day28: REST Finished with this lovely challenge

So despite the last 2 workouts in this challenge where I caught a lazy bug I'm very proud of my commitment during the last 4 weeks. I can also say I'm glad it's over. I mean who likes pushing their selves to the max day in and day out. While I may not have liked the during I have reaped so much because of this.

Click below for...

The Results in lbs and inches

If you want to challenge your self or are looking for some awesome results, Lindsay's S5F Challenge info can be found here and here.


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Week3: Shed 5 Fast Challenge

Oct. 24th - 30th

It's a new week and a new workout. Weeks 3 and 4 of the Shed 5 Fast Challenge (beginner) I'm doing the 2nd workout on the DVD. I have to say I loved the music of the first workout much better, but is that really why I workout? So what's the difference between workout 1 and workout2 besides the beats?

My Shed 5 Fast DVD Breakdown

WO (workout) 1:
Was new to me a few weeks ago. I couldn't do quick controlled lunges or jumping jacks on queue. After 2 weeks of this challenge I'm jumping and lunging right on time with the gals on the DVD. Lindsay is really great at doing her thing in her fitness level but taking time to show the various modifications. She's encouraging you all the way to step it up since you're giving the time and you don't get that motivation unless you push PLAY. This is a true sign that you can press repeat and still feel like it's the first time you're working out with her. Amazing.

WO 2:
I have 2 words "Ab Crank". There are a lot of standing abs in this routine. There are still a few kickboxing sequences, planks, but it seems the main focus is core strength and cardio. Like I said above the music isn't my favorite. However alternating between the 2 every 48hrs is a great way to stay active and challenged.

Overall
Some choose 1 workout every 48hrs and others do both spread out over the day (yikes). When it isn't challenging anymore you can simply add heavier weights although I wouldn't go too big, my personal opinion.


Day15: S5F Workout #2
I do miss WO1, sounds funny even to myself but I guess I miss the routine even though I couldn't wait to do something different. The screamers that we did today have my legs burning even 2 hours later (last few seconds of the video above).

Day16: Cardio Option B 1 minute of each of the following
Half Speed Squats:
Stand with feet shoulder width apart, squat halfway down (not to 90 degrees). Goal: 50/min
Jump Backs:
From standing position crouch down so your hands are on the floor, jump your feet back so you are in a plank position, jump your feet back into crouch position and stand up. Goal: 15-20/min
Lateral Ski:
Stand with your weight on one leg, jump 2 feet to the side so your weight is now on the other leg. Goal: 80/min
Rotating Squat Jumps:
Perform a squat. Jump out of the squat and into another squat facing the other direction (180 degree turn in air). Goal: 30/min
Mountain climbers (MCs):
Get in a plank position and bring one knee towards your belly button, switch. Goal: 80-90/min
Plank Twisters:
Start in a plank position. Bring your right knee towards your left hip bone. As your right leg straightens your left knee should come towards your right hip bone. Goal: 60-70/min
Repeat 3x (total 18 minutes)

Because this was only an 18min workout I added... Pshh.
I had to rest at least 30sec between each exercise. This was so hard for me. I don't think I've worked out this hard or challenged since working out again. Super sweat and tears throughout. I just hate that I've let my fitness level sink so low. I was so happy to be done and I look forward to S5F#2 Tomoroow

Day17: S5F Workout #2 + 10min of CardioA
Still felt challenged but anything after yesterday's wo makes you feel so strong. CardioA  is optional today and at first I was set on skipping it but it too is a step down from CardioB. The day ended up getting busy and I actually forgot to do it.

Maybe Lindsay has a few tricks up her sleeves. It almost feels like she pushes you to the brink so you can see how far you can go then brings you back to show you how strong you really are. Brilliant!

Day18: REST
If rest means dance I rested for about 40min today. I found this on youtube and got HOOKED. Nancy G. Fitness will more than likely be added to my Zumba love collection. Her workouts are fun, energetic, addicting, and challenging. The routines are basic so everyone can join no matter your fitness level. My buns and calves are burning but I couldn't stop. I might just be addicted to working out. If only I were closer to Michigan, her classes I'm sure are always packed.

Day19: S5F Workout #2 + 8min Abs
Instead of fully cooling down from the DVD workout I went straight into the ab work. I feel stronger! This was my 3rd time doing the FREE 8min abs and I did more reps with the correct form.

Today we went to the park, while The Hubs ran around with my older 3 I sat watching the baby thinking, "I can do that". Ha! I played freeze tag for the first time in I can't remember when. I was a sprinter on the track team in High School, although I'm no where near that level. It was fun sprinting around like that. I can't wait to sign up for a 5k type race.

Day20: CardioD (Boot Camp 2 DVD: warmup, cardio #5, cardio #6, cardio #5 instead I did cardio #3, cooldown
I do believe I will rest tomorrow and gain my strength to resist the Halloween treats I'm sure will invade my house

Day21: REST Happy Fall Y'all! I know it's Halloween but try not to eat too much candy, it's going to be hard!

Just one more week and this Challenge will be Finished!!!!

I can't wait to see my stats in numbers.

Don't forget, Lindsay has started a facebook support group, Operation: Get my Body Back! I love the daily support and discussion these ladies offer. Women from all backgrounds from all over the world coming together to encourage one another. Within joining the group I was up off my bum and haven't stopped challenging my body since.

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Week2: Shed 5 Fast Challenge

Oct. 17th - 23rd

In the weeks to come I'll be tracking my daily progress in weeks instead of days. Now that you get the gist of my daily schedule and what I'll be doing the next 21 days. This week I've decided to add a before picture. It's actually where I am now so that later I can call it before, Get it?  In posting this I've made a commitment to myself that I will make an After Video. I can not wait, I've already lost 10lb with 50-60 to go.

Some days like today, I just feel so defeated, like I'm at the bottom of the biggest hill looking up. I'll try to keep my nose down and focus on the steps, one foot in front of the other. I'll get there, I truly believe that (most days).

Day8: S5F Workout #1
My intensity fluctuated from low to high throughout. I did notice I could do jumping jacks right alongside Lindsay. Before I would just march in place with my arms moving. I attempted to do "real" rotating push ups. I could only do 1 each side.

Day9: Cardio A
1 minute of each:
1. Half speed squats: Goal: 35-40
2. Jumping Jack crosses: Crossing your feet one in front of the other as you jump Goal: 35-40 reps
3. Lateral ski: Goal: 60 reps
4. Side squats: Goal: 30 reps  
5. Mountain climbers: From the plank position alternate knees toward the belly Goal: 70-80 reps 
 reps / minute Repeat 1-5, 4x (total=20 minutes)

Wow, that was so much different this time. I did these correctly and will feel the burn on into tomorrow. Instead of trying to count reps I just did as much as I could each minute almost non stop for 30min. Ouch!<

Day10: S5F Workout #1
Not much to say but, DONE! I'm so happy to see that big redded word below!

Day11: REST Instead of resting I did 45min on my Wii. Zumba Expert was rough, but for some reason I commited and didn't let my self stop until the cool down. I wore myself out to say the least.

Day12: REST Body Shut Down .(

Day13: Cardio D:  Boot Camp 2 DVD Cardio#5, Cardio#6, Cardio#5 instead I did Lindsay's 8min Abs that I missed from day12. Tomorrow I will make myself rest so as not to through myself off schedule anymore. I may throw in some yoga to keep my core strength seeing as it helps with my hiatal hernia issues.

Day14: REST

And with that Week#2 is DONE!

Half way there...

Excitement and anxiety are beginning to set in because the weeks to come will be my make or break moment. Since I've started working out I seem to be consistent in the first 2 weeks then drop off or skip the remainder. I'm determined to keep going for the sake of this blog and my overall health. This isn't just a blog experiment. I'm not obligated to anyone in writing this series. I'm solely doing this for myself.

I want my BeforeBabyBody Back!

Week#2 Stats:
The scale hasn't budged since losing 10lbs but I feel great. Despite what I see in the mirror I feel college-age again. Granted I'm only 30 I've started to feel old, back issues, joint pain, etc. I can feel 20 for the rest of my life if I do a little bit of work now, later I'll reap the reward. My family will benefit as well and get a much more energetic mama. It's so true, "when mommy ain't happy, ain't nobody happy". I'm the life spring in my house, as a stay at homeschooling mom I need to be on top of my game for success to even be an option.



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Day6: Shed 5 Fast Challenge

If you can complete one week of this challenge you can complete the entire 4 weeks. I'm saying this at the quarter mark. It is hard, as it should be, but you will start seeing your strength gain. I can finally do lunges after 90days using Lindsay's system. They are slow but I feel the burn in my glutes and not my knees. Huge accomplishment for me.

Today I did... Cardio Option D:  Boot Camp 2 DVD

warmup, Cardio#5, Cardio#6, Cardio#5, cool down

This series can be purchased in 3 ways, 
DVD, Download, or Both.

You have the option of doing Cardio Option C or D. C is a download that is not yet available. A few months back I won this DVD from a blog giveaway. I love giveaways!


My stats in lbs and inches can be found here, I've lost a total of 10lbs and 17inches. Looking at my loosening skin, it's still hard to believe what I've accomplished. At first I was worried about doing the same workouts for so long. The Shed 5 Fast DVD has 2 workouts. Lindsay is instructing you the entire time in the videos. I think because she is so helpful reminding you to breath or hold a pose through out you really get the sense that she's right in front of you. You've got your own personal trainer in your living room.

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Day5: Shed 5 Fast Challenge

All I can say is, I did it. It was hard, but I pushed through and now I get to relax for the rest of the day. I'm not sure which day is the hardest yet because I've not made it through the week. Today was rough!! I'm not 100% sure but I think Miss Lindsay may just be a robot. See what I mean below.

 I love how she has worked so hard to make it look so easy. I know I'll get there (I keep telling myself). I wanted to show the workout schedule I've been following. I'm obviously a beginner and can't imagine what the vets are going through right now.

Today's workout was...
the S5F#1 but with 2lb heavier weights and Lindsay's Free 8min Abs.

Don't forget momsintofitness.com has FREE meal plans and more. For the Cardio Instructions visit Lindsay's blog for what what each letter means. Good News, the 8min Abs are free! I'm not sure how often you'll want to do them but they are sure to get your core flat and strong.

Now go and get it .)

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Day3: Shed 5 Fast Challenge

Ihave some awesomely annoying news! I've lost 10lbs and my pants won't stay up. I mean around the house I wear lounging type clothes (pajamas). I don't do my hair, or where makeup, my pants are all elastic. I mean I knew I'd lost weight, I knew inches were melting off but my goodness. I've heard others say how they don't have any clothes that fit and I just wished I was there. As I walked around the grocery store tonight I realized, I'm there! My shirts are really drooping, my pants sagging, and my bras are doing absolutely nothing for support. It's time to get some new gear all around.

Lindsay includes a progress tracker with her 60Day Slim Down System (60SD). Although I didn't complete the entire 2 months I have been keeping track of my measurements...

I'm down 10lbs and 17inches since July 28, 2011. 90 days ago I would've never thought I could be here. I couldn't keep up with Lindsay's 60SD. I thought I'd really failed myself until I realized it was just too advanced for me. I didn't look forward to the workouts, instead I dreaded them. Enough to skip 2 weeks and make excuses, pick it back up and drop the last 2 weeks again.

What's Changed?
I decided that although I'd wasted my time before I was going to keep going. Again you can't fail unless you stop. Keep at it in anyway that fits and you'll make your goals. Failing is not an option. I can't keep looking at the scale, mad or sad. I can't be upset that the numbers aren't changing if I'm not willing to dig deeper to find the root of the problem.

I thought I could wing the counting calories part. I grew up with a Jane Fonda inspired aerobic mother who obsessed (it seemed that way to me) about all numbers. Numbers on the scale, measuring out servings, fat, calories, etc. I've since found that method was what worked for her. She was a numbers gal and treated food and eating as a math equation. That method was NOT for me and it is just that, a method.

I have discovered that if I'm going to be working this hard physically I'd better match that same intensity in my nutrition. This was a major catalyst for starting my 3day Reboot Inspired Juice Fast. It taught me how mental my eating habits had been. I'm not nearly as hungry as I thought I was. Since I've been off and getting back to normal more complex foods I crave salads. Not the measly kind you ask for on the side either, I want a jethro sized salad with a bit of meat, sweet red pepper,  and my hubby's vinaigrette. I'll try to remember to post his recipe on facebook.

Tomorrow is the first official Rest Day of this challenge, Ahhhhhh.

Want to jump in? Buy the DVD or Downloads and join!

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The products mentioned in this post written here were provided by: MomsIntoFitness.com for the purpose of this review. I was not compensated in any other way and all opinions made are mine: Gymberella. 

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