Third time is the charm right?
Yes, this is my third time trying to Drop 2 Sizes.
My first try was in January of 2014. I had just gained 30 pounds out of the blue and was feeling pretty lousy so I was desperate for something to work. Alas, I didn't make it all the way thru.
I then started working with my current doctor and was diagnosed with hormonal imbalance, hypothyroid, adrenal stuff, deficiencies etc ... So my brilliant self thought it was a good idea to try again. My second attempt was June of 2014. I was only about 2 months into my treatment. I finished. I remember it being underwhelming. In retrospect, I don't see how I could of thought I'd get ANY sort of results because I can now see how bad off I was. But according to that post, I lost inches. I did NOT, however, lose 2 sizes. Not even close.
And then finally I decided to try AGAIN. Tonight will start my second week of Phase 2. I can tell that this time I'm getting more out of it. There are moves that I can do without modifying this time. In fact, the first move of the first workout was one that I had to modify EVERY TIME during the previous 2 tries. So I was actually SHOCKED when I started this time and didn't have to modify it at all. And I think that's because I have made that much progress with my doctor. Thank God. So I really feel like this go round will be the first legitimate try.
I took starting measurements and pictures back in June. I haven't posted any updates yet because I haven't taken any update measurements at all. I've thought about doing it but honestly, I've been afraid. This may sound weird, but I've been feeling SO GOOD lately, I was afraid that if I took measurements I would see that nothing had changed. And I didn't want to do anything that might make me feel bad. But as I explained in my last post, I've been on a plateau and I believe now is the time to at least take the measurements to make sure I'm moving in the right direction. Because you can't change what you don't measure. Right?
Right.
Oh and one last tiny, little thing. I just placed an online order over the weekend for a new pair of jeans because my old ones ripped. I ordered them one size smaller.
WHAT?!?!
:)
Showing posts with label Drop Two Sizes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Drop Two Sizes. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 8, 2015
July Fireworks and Working Out!
Hello world. I hope everyone had a spectacular July 4th.
I don't know how it is where you live, but in Los Angeles there are just way too many people who get their hands on fireworks. And not those pew pew tiny fireworks, those BIG BOOM BOOM fireworks. And they are usually drunk and not qualified to handle such items.
My assistant's apartment almost burned down because of said people. Thank goodness both he and all his worldly possessions made it out alive. Seriously people, cool it with the fireworks. You will be JUST as patriotic without them.
Lots of things to talk about on this fine Wednesday morning. First lets talk about my weight. I am still holding steady. In fact, I still pretty much weigh the same as I did at the beginning of May. And I'll be honest, I'm heart broken. Now, I'm trying to not let it get to me because I'm aware there are many things that still need to be fixed in my body, but I thought I was making headway. In fact, I felt like I DESERVED to make headway. But alas, life had other plans. In any case, sitting and pouting will absolutely get me nowhere so lets try to troubleshoot what is happening.
Lets look at some of the factors:
Food wise, I'm eating the same things and save the 4th of July weekend where I splurged, I have been eating around 100 grams of net carbs per day since February. Calories are roughly the same, protein and fat are roughly the same, I'm still avoiding the foods I've been avoiding and everything. So I don't think food is the problem.
Workout wise, I'm STILL doing the Drop 2 Sizes program. In fact, today starts Phase 2 week 2 and I feel like I'm really killing it this time. Probably because I have more energy. In any case, I really feel like I'm getting stronger. So perhaps the plateau is a building muscle thing.
Health wise I hit a little snafu. In June I started to feel pretty lousy again. Old symptoms were creeping back in too frequently (fatigue, sleeping problems, hair problems etc ..). So after a dialogue with my doctor, we realized I was not taking enough progesterone. In fact, I was taking 75% less than what she wanted me on. That's a big difference. I was taking 25mg and she had wanted me on 100mg. She sorted it out with the pharmacy and I'm one week into my new dose. So far so good.
Now when I lay it all out on the line like that it just becomes glaringly obvious doesn't it? So what's probably happening is that I'm gaining a little bit of muscle which has offset any real loss on the scale AND with my meds a little messed up, my body hasn't been working as efficiently as it could.
I have to be honest, I hadn't really put 2 and 2 together until I just typed that all out. Probably should have thought that thru a little more before I had my pity party.
Ok, so here's what I'm going to do: I'm going to take some measurements. If I HAVE been gaining some muscle then I should be down. And secondly, I'm just going to give it some time. Which in my opinion is one of the WORST THINGS EVER. I don't know about you but there is nothing worse than when my doctor tells me "you just have to give it some time to work". There is no comfort in those words because all I hear is "There is nothing you can do. You have no control over this". Those are not the words you want to tell a control freak, which I am.
But that's what I have to do.
I don't know how it is where you live, but in Los Angeles there are just way too many people who get their hands on fireworks. And not those pew pew tiny fireworks, those BIG BOOM BOOM fireworks. And they are usually drunk and not qualified to handle such items.
My assistant's apartment almost burned down because of said people. Thank goodness both he and all his worldly possessions made it out alive. Seriously people, cool it with the fireworks. You will be JUST as patriotic without them.
Lots of things to talk about on this fine Wednesday morning. First lets talk about my weight. I am still holding steady. In fact, I still pretty much weigh the same as I did at the beginning of May. And I'll be honest, I'm heart broken. Now, I'm trying to not let it get to me because I'm aware there are many things that still need to be fixed in my body, but I thought I was making headway. In fact, I felt like I DESERVED to make headway. But alas, life had other plans. In any case, sitting and pouting will absolutely get me nowhere so lets try to troubleshoot what is happening.
Lets look at some of the factors:
Food wise, I'm eating the same things and save the 4th of July weekend where I splurged, I have been eating around 100 grams of net carbs per day since February. Calories are roughly the same, protein and fat are roughly the same, I'm still avoiding the foods I've been avoiding and everything. So I don't think food is the problem.
Workout wise, I'm STILL doing the Drop 2 Sizes program. In fact, today starts Phase 2 week 2 and I feel like I'm really killing it this time. Probably because I have more energy. In any case, I really feel like I'm getting stronger. So perhaps the plateau is a building muscle thing.
Health wise I hit a little snafu. In June I started to feel pretty lousy again. Old symptoms were creeping back in too frequently (fatigue, sleeping problems, hair problems etc ..). So after a dialogue with my doctor, we realized I was not taking enough progesterone. In fact, I was taking 75% less than what she wanted me on. That's a big difference. I was taking 25mg and she had wanted me on 100mg. She sorted it out with the pharmacy and I'm one week into my new dose. So far so good.
Now when I lay it all out on the line like that it just becomes glaringly obvious doesn't it? So what's probably happening is that I'm gaining a little bit of muscle which has offset any real loss on the scale AND with my meds a little messed up, my body hasn't been working as efficiently as it could.
I have to be honest, I hadn't really put 2 and 2 together until I just typed that all out. Probably should have thought that thru a little more before I had my pity party.
Ok, so here's what I'm going to do: I'm going to take some measurements. If I HAVE been gaining some muscle then I should be down. And secondly, I'm just going to give it some time. Which in my opinion is one of the WORST THINGS EVER. I don't know about you but there is nothing worse than when my doctor tells me "you just have to give it some time to work". There is no comfort in those words because all I hear is "There is nothing you can do. You have no control over this". Those are not the words you want to tell a control freak, which I am.
But that's what I have to do.
Monday, June 8, 2015
One Month Check In
It's been ANOTHER month.
It wasn't the craziest month but I did get thru a major hurdle.
HOUSEGUESTS.
I don't know why but sometimes I find it hard to eat how I eat around other people. It's not that I feel tempted to eat something that I shouldn't, but sometimes I find that I have to actually DEFEND myself. I've oft found myself in situations with food pushers and food preachers. Food pushers are people who think you need something else on your plate. And it's usually something fatty, sugary, or fried. Food preachers are people who like to tell you what is wrong with what you're eating and that if you just eat what they tell you, then all your problems will be solved.
Seriously folks, I really just want to eat my food in peace. I KNOW sometimes I don't eat the most exciting things. And in all honesty, sometimes I even get BORED with some of my food. But I'm eating it because it's helping me become healthier. That's all. It's not a competition. A co-worker said to me the other day in the lunch room that every time he looks at my meals it makes him feel bad about what he eats. I told him to not feel that way because for all he knows he just caught me on a "good day". And then I went back to my desk and thought about how food makes people feel LOTS of things. I wasn't having a "good day" with my lunch, I was having a NORMAL day with my lunch. But I didn't want him to feel bad. And then here was someone who actually felt bad about himself just by looking at what I was eating. Crazy right?
Food is powerful stuff. But I have gone astray. My point was that I was having houseguests and so for the first time since my lifestyle change, I had to plan for someone else's meals. I really don't like that. I'm not a food pusher. I know I eat healthy and that I should want the rest of my family to follow suit but I don't want to make anyone feel bad about themselves. Change has to come from within. And I believe that the changes I've made in my life have been radical and they've only stuck thus far because I was ready. And many of you may disagree with me but I am firmly aware that dishes that I make and LOVE do NOT taste good to others. Don't get me wrong, it's not that I think the FOOD doesn't taste good. I just believe that my taste buds went through a major overhaul when I started eating clean. Things taste differently to me. Fruit is sweeter, salt is saltier, and broccoli now tastes like ice cream. Ok, maybe not that broccoli thing but you get where I'm going. So I didn't really want to try to cook much. And while eating "paleo" at restaurants isn't that big of a deal for most people, my pesky gluten intolerance does NOT allow for me to be willy nilly about just any old meat and vegetables.
Well, long story short. I was successful AND unsuccessful.
First my successes:
1. I managed to sneak our favorite (and very safe) restaurant into the mix TWICE
2. On a laid back night my guests ordered pizza and while they were waiting on delivery I whipped up my favorite pizza so I could enjoy pizza with them.
3. SNACKS. I ate small snacks throughout the day so if they wanted to eat something special that I couldn't have I was covered.
4. HONESTY. I would check out the menu to places that were suggested and if I could find ABSOLUTELY NOTHING that seemed safe I was honest and asked for another suggestion. And you know what? They really didn't mind.
My FAILS:
1. GETTING TOO COMFORTABLE. At one restaurant I ordered my meal without asking any questions and when the food came, my gut was telling me to ask before I ate. I ignored my gut and I ate. I got SICK.
Actually the GETTING TOO COMFORTABLE reared it's ugly head one other time but I was lucky in that the questionable food ended up being safe.
You see, when it's just me, I'll research and ask questions and if I doubt anything, I'll pass on it. But when I'm in front of people, I tend to just go with the flow. Maybe it's because I wanted to be a good host or maybe I just wanted to feel "normal" again. Either way, it's something I will work on for the future.
Other than the one sickness, it was a VERY successful time. Everyone had a really great time. I also have a big family vacation coming up in September and now I feel way more confident about it.
In other updates ....
I ended the month of May with a bit of a plateau weight wise. I didn't gain and I didn't lose. And on June 1st, I revisited my Drop 2 Sizes workout. I guess I just felt like I was ready to give it another go. Today is the start of Phase 1 Week 2.
Until next time ...
It wasn't the craziest month but I did get thru a major hurdle.
HOUSEGUESTS.
I don't know why but sometimes I find it hard to eat how I eat around other people. It's not that I feel tempted to eat something that I shouldn't, but sometimes I find that I have to actually DEFEND myself. I've oft found myself in situations with food pushers and food preachers. Food pushers are people who think you need something else on your plate. And it's usually something fatty, sugary, or fried. Food preachers are people who like to tell you what is wrong with what you're eating and that if you just eat what they tell you, then all your problems will be solved.
Seriously folks, I really just want to eat my food in peace. I KNOW sometimes I don't eat the most exciting things. And in all honesty, sometimes I even get BORED with some of my food. But I'm eating it because it's helping me become healthier. That's all. It's not a competition. A co-worker said to me the other day in the lunch room that every time he looks at my meals it makes him feel bad about what he eats. I told him to not feel that way because for all he knows he just caught me on a "good day". And then I went back to my desk and thought about how food makes people feel LOTS of things. I wasn't having a "good day" with my lunch, I was having a NORMAL day with my lunch. But I didn't want him to feel bad. And then here was someone who actually felt bad about himself just by looking at what I was eating. Crazy right?
Food is powerful stuff. But I have gone astray. My point was that I was having houseguests and so for the first time since my lifestyle change, I had to plan for someone else's meals. I really don't like that. I'm not a food pusher. I know I eat healthy and that I should want the rest of my family to follow suit but I don't want to make anyone feel bad about themselves. Change has to come from within. And I believe that the changes I've made in my life have been radical and they've only stuck thus far because I was ready. And many of you may disagree with me but I am firmly aware that dishes that I make and LOVE do NOT taste good to others. Don't get me wrong, it's not that I think the FOOD doesn't taste good. I just believe that my taste buds went through a major overhaul when I started eating clean. Things taste differently to me. Fruit is sweeter, salt is saltier, and broccoli now tastes like ice cream. Ok, maybe not that broccoli thing but you get where I'm going. So I didn't really want to try to cook much. And while eating "paleo" at restaurants isn't that big of a deal for most people, my pesky gluten intolerance does NOT allow for me to be willy nilly about just any old meat and vegetables.
Well, long story short. I was successful AND unsuccessful.
First my successes:
1. I managed to sneak our favorite (and very safe) restaurant into the mix TWICE
2. On a laid back night my guests ordered pizza and while they were waiting on delivery I whipped up my favorite pizza so I could enjoy pizza with them.
3. SNACKS. I ate small snacks throughout the day so if they wanted to eat something special that I couldn't have I was covered.
4. HONESTY. I would check out the menu to places that were suggested and if I could find ABSOLUTELY NOTHING that seemed safe I was honest and asked for another suggestion. And you know what? They really didn't mind.
My FAILS:
1. GETTING TOO COMFORTABLE. At one restaurant I ordered my meal without asking any questions and when the food came, my gut was telling me to ask before I ate. I ignored my gut and I ate. I got SICK.
Actually the GETTING TOO COMFORTABLE reared it's ugly head one other time but I was lucky in that the questionable food ended up being safe.
You see, when it's just me, I'll research and ask questions and if I doubt anything, I'll pass on it. But when I'm in front of people, I tend to just go with the flow. Maybe it's because I wanted to be a good host or maybe I just wanted to feel "normal" again. Either way, it's something I will work on for the future.
Other than the one sickness, it was a VERY successful time. Everyone had a really great time. I also have a big family vacation coming up in September and now I feel way more confident about it.
In other updates ....
I ended the month of May with a bit of a plateau weight wise. I didn't gain and I didn't lose. And on June 1st, I revisited my Drop 2 Sizes workout. I guess I just felt like I was ready to give it another go. Today is the start of Phase 1 Week 2.
Until next time ...
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Drop 2 Sizes Results
Sorry it has taken me so long to get to posting my results.
I finished the Drop 2 Sizes challenge a couple of weeks ago and I ended up liking it a lot more this time around. I really got into the lifting part and I definitely gained some strength.
I worked out every week usually 3-4 times but the average came down to just 3 times a week. I made sure to lift heavy and upped my weights with each phase.
Just for an example on lifting, I started the program doing some squatting exercises with no weights - now I can easily do squats holding 40-50 lbs (probably more). For shoulders, I would do single arm presses with a 5lb dumbbell, I just used a 20lb dumbbell last week. Same with rows, started around 8lbs, can use a 20lb no problem now.
My measurements:
Beginning:
Chest: 45"
Ribs: 36"
Waist: 38 1/2"
Hips: 49"
Thigh: 27"
Knee: 19"
Left Arm: 13"
End:
Chest: 41"
Ribs: 34"
Waist: 35"
Hips: 45"
Thigh: 24"
Knee: 18"
Left Arm: 12"
Total Inches Lost: -20.5"
So while I apparently lost quite a few inches, I've got to be honest, I really can't personally see that big of a difference in my after pics. However, I do FEEL better than I did when I started. I also gained strength, and I definitely can tell a difference in my clothing but mainly just my tops. Due to my hormone problems, my belly fat is what increased what seems like 10-fold. I was hoping that with all the work I've been doing with my doctor I would see a bigger difference in my belly and hips but alas I did not. I did NOT lose a pants size of any kind. And even though I have personal issues with my hormones right now, I think that even if everything was working properly, I would not have lost TWO pant sizes.
But there's hope, I am currently on a new regime from my doctor to try to get that belly fat to go away :)
It's quite the process.
Oh and as for scale weight, I lost 0.8 pounds.
Like I said, I ended up really enjoying the lifting aspect of the DVDs. So much that I am still doing the lifting. In fact, right now I'm doing a combo of 30 day Shred and Drop 2 Sizes. I'm doing 2 days of lifting from Drop 2 Sizes, and 3 days of 30 Day Shred a week.
I'm very excited to see my results for a couple of reason. First, I'm working out 5 days a week. This is truly amazing because when I started the Drop 2 Sizes three months ago, I could barely workout three days a week because I was so tired. So my energy is clearly improving! Secondly, there's just something about the 30 Day Shred that I love. It's quick, simple, and the last time I did it I had some really good results so I'm excited to see what happens. And lastly, with my new regime, I'm really hoping that this time I'll see some reduction in my HIPS.
I finished the Drop 2 Sizes challenge a couple of weeks ago and I ended up liking it a lot more this time around. I really got into the lifting part and I definitely gained some strength.
I worked out every week usually 3-4 times but the average came down to just 3 times a week. I made sure to lift heavy and upped my weights with each phase.
Just for an example on lifting, I started the program doing some squatting exercises with no weights - now I can easily do squats holding 40-50 lbs (probably more). For shoulders, I would do single arm presses with a 5lb dumbbell, I just used a 20lb dumbbell last week. Same with rows, started around 8lbs, can use a 20lb no problem now.
My measurements:
Beginning:
Chest: 45"
Ribs: 36"
Waist: 38 1/2"
Hips: 49"
Thigh: 27"
Knee: 19"
Left Arm: 13"
End:
Chest: 41"
Ribs: 34"
Waist: 35"
Hips: 45"
Thigh: 24"
Knee: 18"
Left Arm: 12"
Total Inches Lost: -20.5"
So while I apparently lost quite a few inches, I've got to be honest, I really can't personally see that big of a difference in my after pics. However, I do FEEL better than I did when I started. I also gained strength, and I definitely can tell a difference in my clothing but mainly just my tops. Due to my hormone problems, my belly fat is what increased what seems like 10-fold. I was hoping that with all the work I've been doing with my doctor I would see a bigger difference in my belly and hips but alas I did not. I did NOT lose a pants size of any kind. And even though I have personal issues with my hormones right now, I think that even if everything was working properly, I would not have lost TWO pant sizes.
But there's hope, I am currently on a new regime from my doctor to try to get that belly fat to go away :)
It's quite the process.
Oh and as for scale weight, I lost 0.8 pounds.
Like I said, I ended up really enjoying the lifting aspect of the DVDs. So much that I am still doing the lifting. In fact, right now I'm doing a combo of 30 day Shred and Drop 2 Sizes. I'm doing 2 days of lifting from Drop 2 Sizes, and 3 days of 30 Day Shred a week.
I'm very excited to see my results for a couple of reason. First, I'm working out 5 days a week. This is truly amazing because when I started the Drop 2 Sizes three months ago, I could barely workout three days a week because I was so tired. So my energy is clearly improving! Secondly, there's just something about the 30 Day Shred that I love. It's quick, simple, and the last time I did it I had some really good results so I'm excited to see what happens. And lastly, with my new regime, I'm really hoping that this time I'll see some reduction in my HIPS.
Friday, June 27, 2014
Test Results and a Drop 2 Sizes Reboot
Hello world.
I got my test results back yesterday. My thyroid numbers aren't moving so my dose is getting doubled. I actually was expecting that to happen so it wasn't a shock. I also found out that I am low in Vitamin D. Like really low. I thought that living in Southern California would have given me an edge with all the sunshine but alas, no. So I'm also on a large dose of that.
I'm hoping that with getting my Vitamin D levels up my energy will also come back up because that would be super awesome. I started supplementing with Vitamin D just under 2 weeks ago and I had noticed that my energy was slightly improved during my workouts. Enough so that I actually WANTED to do them. Maybe wanted is too strong of a word :)
My doctor threw the Vitamin D test onto my blood work late last week to see where I was at and I'm so glad she did. I'm not positive that's what caused the improvement in my energy but if it gets even better I'll be thrilled.
I'll keep you posted.
I also I told you all that I would try to revisit the Drop 2 Sizes challenge and I finally did.
Actually, I'm in the last half of phase 2 right now. I started it about 6 weeks ago. So you lucky folk will get to see what kind of results someone with hypothyroidism, fatigued adrenals, wonky female hormones AND low levels of Vitamin D will get :)
All I know is that if I get ANY sort of results, then all you normal people out there should be getting MAD results :)
And yes, I did lose inches at the end of phase 1.
I, of course, will post the numerical results when they come in. I have just under 6 weeks to go I believe.
How is it going this time?
Much better. The first time I attempted it, I was frustrated with the LACK of exercise. But since then and the fallout of my energy and ensuing medical discoveries, lack of exercise is apparently what I needed. Having to maintain 4 days a week of exercise was actually the absolute maximum I could handle. In fact, there were at least 2 weeks that I could only handle 3 days. But I am hopeful that with each week that passes I will gain more energy and will be able to add more days a week. I really can't wait to feel like my old self again.
I'm not weighing myself at all. The program tells you not to anyway. Usually I cheat but I seriously have no desire to do so this time around. I'm only taking measurements at the end of each phase.
I'm also not really following the food program outlined in her book. I am on a strict gluten free diet (doctors orders due to thyroid) and besides, I feel pretty confident in my food choices. I'm also still under doctors orders to keep calories between 1500 and 1700. I personally prefer to err on the lower side of that but I don't always. (She did a "body scan" thing with some machine in her office and calculated my calorie requirements based off my lean body mass. The machine calculated me at a higher intake but she lowered it due to the hypothyroidism.)
And that's it for today kiddos. Have a great weekend :)
I got my test results back yesterday. My thyroid numbers aren't moving so my dose is getting doubled. I actually was expecting that to happen so it wasn't a shock. I also found out that I am low in Vitamin D. Like really low. I thought that living in Southern California would have given me an edge with all the sunshine but alas, no. So I'm also on a large dose of that.
I'm hoping that with getting my Vitamin D levels up my energy will also come back up because that would be super awesome. I started supplementing with Vitamin D just under 2 weeks ago and I had noticed that my energy was slightly improved during my workouts. Enough so that I actually WANTED to do them. Maybe wanted is too strong of a word :)
My doctor threw the Vitamin D test onto my blood work late last week to see where I was at and I'm so glad she did. I'm not positive that's what caused the improvement in my energy but if it gets even better I'll be thrilled.
I'll keep you posted.
I also I told you all that I would try to revisit the Drop 2 Sizes challenge and I finally did.
Actually, I'm in the last half of phase 2 right now. I started it about 6 weeks ago. So you lucky folk will get to see what kind of results someone with hypothyroidism, fatigued adrenals, wonky female hormones AND low levels of Vitamin D will get :)
All I know is that if I get ANY sort of results, then all you normal people out there should be getting MAD results :)
And yes, I did lose inches at the end of phase 1.
I, of course, will post the numerical results when they come in. I have just under 6 weeks to go I believe.
How is it going this time?
Much better. The first time I attempted it, I was frustrated with the LACK of exercise. But since then and the fallout of my energy and ensuing medical discoveries, lack of exercise is apparently what I needed. Having to maintain 4 days a week of exercise was actually the absolute maximum I could handle. In fact, there were at least 2 weeks that I could only handle 3 days. But I am hopeful that with each week that passes I will gain more energy and will be able to add more days a week. I really can't wait to feel like my old self again.
I'm not weighing myself at all. The program tells you not to anyway. Usually I cheat but I seriously have no desire to do so this time around. I'm only taking measurements at the end of each phase.
I'm also not really following the food program outlined in her book. I am on a strict gluten free diet (doctors orders due to thyroid) and besides, I feel pretty confident in my food choices. I'm also still under doctors orders to keep calories between 1500 and 1700. I personally prefer to err on the lower side of that but I don't always. (She did a "body scan" thing with some machine in her office and calculated my calorie requirements based off my lean body mass. The machine calculated me at a higher intake but she lowered it due to the hypothyroidism.)
And that's it for today kiddos. Have a great weekend :)
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Drop 2 Sizes: I'm done
Hello everyone out there.
So I have struggled with coming to this decision. And that sounds completely over-dramatic. Wow. I didn't mean for it to. Anyway, I have stopped the Drop 2 Sizes challenge.
I just am not into it. Like super not into it.
I was forcing myself to do the workouts which meant most of the time I was doing them half-heartedly which really does not benefit me in any way. And so the weeks went by and I was just trying to make it to the end when I realized I felt like I was wasting my time. I have very specific goals this year with getting married and all so why was I wasting all of this time doing something that just wasn't working for me?
So I allowed myself to put it aside and move on.
Sorry folks.
I may try to pick it up again in the future, I may not.
What didn't I like? This is going to sound weird but it had me working out about 4 times a week and that didn't keep me interested enough. I had too many days off. I don't know about you but when I'm working out, too many days off are my kryptonite. When I rest too much, it's that much harder for me to get started. There was an option for a 5th workout but I didn't do it. I'll be honest, when I'm doing a program, I do it as prescribed. If it says work out 6 days a week, I work out 6 days a week. If it says "optional", I just don't do it.
At first I thought it was because you were rotating the same workouts every week but I don't have that problem with the 30 Day Shred. I just was NOT clicking with the workouts. I mean, the strength training workouts are really good. You can tell that given some time, they'd really work but they just were not working for me right now.
I'm not completely writing it off because one day I'd really like to follow it through but definitely not right now. I'm on a tight schedule with my wedding and I need to keep my head in the game!
Did I Have Results?
Not really. Like I said, I was doing the workouts but my head wasn't in it. I firmed up so that of course meant things got smaller but I could tell that since I wasn't putting my best foot forward I wasn't going to get the 2 sizes smaller that it promised.
And that wouldn't have been the program's fault - it would have been mine.
So what's next?
Well, I have a couple of options because I do love my programs.
I was trying to decide between DDP Yoga and INSANITY DVD Workout - Base Kit
Yes, two VERY different programs. My gut was telling me to do Insanity and my brain was telling me to do the DDP Yoga.
I probably should listen to my brain but the thought of trying to do Insanity makes me excited. My fiance has had it for a long time and I never did it for some reason. All I know is that it's hard hard HARD! It's a 60 day, 6 day a week, High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) workout. I'll be honest, I'm no spring chicken anymore. The knees don't bounce like they used to so I hesitate. I also have some high arches that like to flare up the old plantar fasciitis. And my back - well, I've talked about my back and how it hates me. Man, I'm talking like I'm 60 not 36. But it's those reasons why I'm thinking about the DDP Yoga.
If you've never heard of it, check out the link above for it and just watch the video about Arthur. I remember watching that a long time ago and it was one of the "oh wow!" moments at the end.
I actually already ordered the DDP Yoga but it won't get here for awhile. Apparently it's takes a couple of weeks. So in the meantime, I'm going to go ahead and start Insanity.
Hey, if it breaks me then I can do the DDP Yoga to get better right?
So I have struggled with coming to this decision. And that sounds completely over-dramatic. Wow. I didn't mean for it to. Anyway, I have stopped the Drop 2 Sizes challenge.
I just am not into it. Like super not into it.
I was forcing myself to do the workouts which meant most of the time I was doing them half-heartedly which really does not benefit me in any way. And so the weeks went by and I was just trying to make it to the end when I realized I felt like I was wasting my time. I have very specific goals this year with getting married and all so why was I wasting all of this time doing something that just wasn't working for me?
So I allowed myself to put it aside and move on.
Sorry folks.
I may try to pick it up again in the future, I may not.
What didn't I like? This is going to sound weird but it had me working out about 4 times a week and that didn't keep me interested enough. I had too many days off. I don't know about you but when I'm working out, too many days off are my kryptonite. When I rest too much, it's that much harder for me to get started. There was an option for a 5th workout but I didn't do it. I'll be honest, when I'm doing a program, I do it as prescribed. If it says work out 6 days a week, I work out 6 days a week. If it says "optional", I just don't do it.
At first I thought it was because you were rotating the same workouts every week but I don't have that problem with the 30 Day Shred. I just was NOT clicking with the workouts. I mean, the strength training workouts are really good. You can tell that given some time, they'd really work but they just were not working for me right now.
I'm not completely writing it off because one day I'd really like to follow it through but definitely not right now. I'm on a tight schedule with my wedding and I need to keep my head in the game!
Did I Have Results?
Not really. Like I said, I was doing the workouts but my head wasn't in it. I firmed up so that of course meant things got smaller but I could tell that since I wasn't putting my best foot forward I wasn't going to get the 2 sizes smaller that it promised.
And that wouldn't have been the program's fault - it would have been mine.
So what's next?
Well, I have a couple of options because I do love my programs.
I was trying to decide between DDP Yoga and INSANITY DVD Workout - Base Kit
Yes, two VERY different programs. My gut was telling me to do Insanity and my brain was telling me to do the DDP Yoga.
I probably should listen to my brain but the thought of trying to do Insanity makes me excited. My fiance has had it for a long time and I never did it for some reason. All I know is that it's hard hard HARD! It's a 60 day, 6 day a week, High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) workout. I'll be honest, I'm no spring chicken anymore. The knees don't bounce like they used to so I hesitate. I also have some high arches that like to flare up the old plantar fasciitis. And my back - well, I've talked about my back and how it hates me. Man, I'm talking like I'm 60 not 36. But it's those reasons why I'm thinking about the DDP Yoga.
If you've never heard of it, check out the link above for it and just watch the video about Arthur. I remember watching that a long time ago and it was one of the "oh wow!" moments at the end.
I actually already ordered the DDP Yoga but it won't get here for awhile. Apparently it's takes a couple of weeks. So in the meantime, I'm going to go ahead and start Insanity.
Hey, if it breaks me then I can do the DDP Yoga to get better right?
Monday, February 10, 2014
Drop 2 Sizes: Week 4
Hello everyone. I hope the weekend was wonderful to you all. Mine was very nice but definitely not long enough.
It never is.
Today marks day #1 of week 4 for my Drop 2 Sizes Challenge which means this is the last week of Phase 1 for me!
I'm doing ok with it. I've missed a few workouts here and there but I'm still in the game. I'm working out hard and doing my best to up my weights with each week that passes. I can tell I'm getting stronger which is very encouraging. I'm modifying moves less and less and I am able to push harder in the metabolic workouts.
Have I lost any inches? Honestly, I have no idea. I can definitely tell that my clothes fit better than they did January 2nd. My tops look better on me and I've even had to start wearing a smaller bra (1 cup and band size smaller). Oh and I've gone down a dress size. So yes, clearly things are shrinking. But pant sizes?
After a workout a little over a week ago I was feeling overly confident and grabbed 2 pairs of my "control" jeans to try on. I think the adrenaline was still surging through my veins or something because I was positive my "goal" jeans were going to fit like a glove.
Yeah, they didn't. In fact, I am almost positive they fit even worse then before I started. Seriously, I couldn't get them off fast enough. I'll be honest, it was deflating and a little heart breaking. So I walked around my apartment and came up with a list of reasons why this might have happened. These were completely based on no basis of fact or reality but apparently it's what I needed to tell myself to not give up.
1. My muscles were crazy swollen from lifting like the beast I am.
2. I was retaining water due to my upcoming time of the month (this one ended up being true because I got it the next day).
3. I tried on the wrong pair of jeans.
4. My legs were really sweaty and that's why the fabric wouldn't pull up.
5. The jeans shrunk.
I don't know. I'm telling you this because this week is the week I'm supposed to do my jeans progress report and I don't want to do it.
I WILL do it because I need to know how I'm doing but I might put it off until the end of the week. Rachel says in her book that either way, you need to put them on because they'll tell you how you're doing. She says if you don't see a difference then you know you need to step it up.
It's like she is talking to me ;)
I do, in fact, need to step it up. I feel completely ok with what I'm eating so I know I need to not be so accepting of skipping workouts. So that's the goal for precious Week #4. Do all of my workouts.
Wish me luck.
Today's Menu:
B: Apple Cinnamon Almond Muffins
S: Apple
L: Baked Chicken with Broccoli Slaw
D: Steak and Roasted Vegetables
It never is.
Today marks day #1 of week 4 for my Drop 2 Sizes Challenge which means this is the last week of Phase 1 for me!
I'm doing ok with it. I've missed a few workouts here and there but I'm still in the game. I'm working out hard and doing my best to up my weights with each week that passes. I can tell I'm getting stronger which is very encouraging. I'm modifying moves less and less and I am able to push harder in the metabolic workouts.
Have I lost any inches? Honestly, I have no idea. I can definitely tell that my clothes fit better than they did January 2nd. My tops look better on me and I've even had to start wearing a smaller bra (1 cup and band size smaller). Oh and I've gone down a dress size. So yes, clearly things are shrinking. But pant sizes?
After a workout a little over a week ago I was feeling overly confident and grabbed 2 pairs of my "control" jeans to try on. I think the adrenaline was still surging through my veins or something because I was positive my "goal" jeans were going to fit like a glove.
Yeah, they didn't. In fact, I am almost positive they fit even worse then before I started. Seriously, I couldn't get them off fast enough. I'll be honest, it was deflating and a little heart breaking. So I walked around my apartment and came up with a list of reasons why this might have happened. These were completely based on no basis of fact or reality but apparently it's what I needed to tell myself to not give up.
1. My muscles were crazy swollen from lifting like the beast I am.
2. I was retaining water due to my upcoming time of the month (this one ended up being true because I got it the next day).
3. I tried on the wrong pair of jeans.
4. My legs were really sweaty and that's why the fabric wouldn't pull up.
5. The jeans shrunk.
I don't know. I'm telling you this because this week is the week I'm supposed to do my jeans progress report and I don't want to do it.
I WILL do it because I need to know how I'm doing but I might put it off until the end of the week. Rachel says in her book that either way, you need to put them on because they'll tell you how you're doing. She says if you don't see a difference then you know you need to step it up.
It's like she is talking to me ;)
I do, in fact, need to step it up. I feel completely ok with what I'm eating so I know I need to not be so accepting of skipping workouts. So that's the goal for precious Week #4. Do all of my workouts.
Wish me luck.
Today's Menu:
B: Apple Cinnamon Almond Muffins
S: Apple
L: Baked Chicken with Broccoli Slaw
D: Steak and Roasted Vegetables
Monday, February 3, 2014
Whole30 Round #2 Results
Happy February!
I hope everyone enjoyed the Super Bowl yesterday.
I thought it was very uneventful. Sad even. It was like the Broncos collectively all had their worst game ever. Like they were all drunk even. It was weird. Every time they showed Peyton close up you could tell from the look on his face that even he didn't know what was going on.
Like it was voodoo witch craft or something. I was hoping for an exciting, close game so I was very disappointed to say the least.
You know what I was not disappointed in? My Whole30.
January 31st marked my 30th day. So that means this past Saturday was my first "normal" Saturday in this fine year of 2014. And you know what I ate?
Rice. Yeah, that's it. I had some rice. I had some yellow curry and instead of forgoing the magic grain, I decided to go crazy and eat some for dinner. And that was the only naughty thing I ate for Saturday. It didn't affect me that much. I was a little more full than usual and I remember feeling sleepy (because I was so full) but other than that, it wasn't a big deal.
And then came Sunday. And not just any Sunday. SUPER BOWL SUNDAY. We went to a friend's house for the big event and as you can imagine there was food everywhere. And you know what I ate?
Some smoked pork, carrots, pea pods, broccoli, grape tomatoes, and fruit salad. Oh yeah, I also had a small dollop of dip from the veggie tray. And that's it. And you know what? I did it without thinking. Well, that's not quite true. I remember standing at the food table, surveying all my choices and as I looked at each food my brain automatically labeled it as a yes or no. And then I took all the yes items. And I did not feel like I missed out on anything.
This is so different then my first Whole30 last year. Do you know what I ate after I finished that Whole30? I ate everything. No lie. I remember just feeling like I needed to eat everything. I believe McDonald's and pizza rolls both played a vital role that time.
So what made this time different? I have no idea. It could be that I'm getting married later this year and I'm very motivated by that event. It could be that I'm sick of feeling sick when I eat certain food. It could also be something as simple as allowing white potatoes during my Whole30. Or what I'm hoping it could be is that I do enjoy this lifestyle. It's hard but I honestly do enjoy it.
All I know is that it's February and my menu for the week is very paleo indeed. I'm definitely not sticking to the strict rules of the Whole30 because like they said in their book:
It Starts With Food: Discover the Whole30 and Change Your Life in Unexpected Ways
This isn't a way to eat 365 days out of the year. And I totally agree with that. There is no way I could personally sustain a Whole30 for longer than 30 days. Heck, I technically didn't even do a "real" Whole30 because of the allowance of potatoes but I don't care. The last 30 days apparently worked for me and I'm ecstatic.
I lost 7.4 pounds. As for pics and measurements, those coincide more with my Drop 2 Sizes challenge so I'll post those further along. I kind of didn't care about the physical outcome (meaning weight and measurements) with my Whole30. I did it to get myself back on track after the holidays and I feel like I was 100% successful on that front.
So what now?
I guess I'm transitioning into a paleo/primal thing but I don't want to label it either way. I'll continue to leave grains out for the majority of the time. If I do eat them, you can bet they will absolutely be gluten free. I definitely will keep refined sugar out. There are too many great alternatives out there not to. As far as legumes. I'm not too diligent about that one. I'm not a big bean or peanut butter person to begin with. I bought sunflower butter last week and I believe that might be my replacement for the rare times I want peanut butter. And the only time I really eat beans is with chili. And I make that maybe once or twice a year during the cold months. So I'm really just not going to sweat it. And then there is dairy. My fiance does not do well with dairy so I'll leave that out when I cook. As for me, since he's not eating it that will pretty much mean I'm not since I cook for the both of us. And I have no problem with that.
This week I'll have at some point: tomato soup, a big salad to which I'll add meat, beef stir fry with vegetables, apple cinnamon muffins made with almond flour and the inevitable scrambled eggs. Man, I love some good scrambled eggs.
I also will drink my coffee with unsweetened almond milk which I like just fine. And beef jerky will make an appearance in the snack department as will an apple or 2.
And I'll just take each day and food choice one day at a time.
I hope everyone enjoyed the Super Bowl yesterday.
I thought it was very uneventful. Sad even. It was like the Broncos collectively all had their worst game ever. Like they were all drunk even. It was weird. Every time they showed Peyton close up you could tell from the look on his face that even he didn't know what was going on.
Like it was voodoo witch craft or something. I was hoping for an exciting, close game so I was very disappointed to say the least.
You know what I was not disappointed in? My Whole30.
January 31st marked my 30th day. So that means this past Saturday was my first "normal" Saturday in this fine year of 2014. And you know what I ate?
Rice. Yeah, that's it. I had some rice. I had some yellow curry and instead of forgoing the magic grain, I decided to go crazy and eat some for dinner. And that was the only naughty thing I ate for Saturday. It didn't affect me that much. I was a little more full than usual and I remember feeling sleepy (because I was so full) but other than that, it wasn't a big deal.
And then came Sunday. And not just any Sunday. SUPER BOWL SUNDAY. We went to a friend's house for the big event and as you can imagine there was food everywhere. And you know what I ate?
Some smoked pork, carrots, pea pods, broccoli, grape tomatoes, and fruit salad. Oh yeah, I also had a small dollop of dip from the veggie tray. And that's it. And you know what? I did it without thinking. Well, that's not quite true. I remember standing at the food table, surveying all my choices and as I looked at each food my brain automatically labeled it as a yes or no. And then I took all the yes items. And I did not feel like I missed out on anything.
This is so different then my first Whole30 last year. Do you know what I ate after I finished that Whole30? I ate everything. No lie. I remember just feeling like I needed to eat everything. I believe McDonald's and pizza rolls both played a vital role that time.
So what made this time different? I have no idea. It could be that I'm getting married later this year and I'm very motivated by that event. It could be that I'm sick of feeling sick when I eat certain food. It could also be something as simple as allowing white potatoes during my Whole30. Or what I'm hoping it could be is that I do enjoy this lifestyle. It's hard but I honestly do enjoy it.
All I know is that it's February and my menu for the week is very paleo indeed. I'm definitely not sticking to the strict rules of the Whole30 because like they said in their book:
It Starts With Food: Discover the Whole30 and Change Your Life in Unexpected Ways
This isn't a way to eat 365 days out of the year. And I totally agree with that. There is no way I could personally sustain a Whole30 for longer than 30 days. Heck, I technically didn't even do a "real" Whole30 because of the allowance of potatoes but I don't care. The last 30 days apparently worked for me and I'm ecstatic.
I lost 7.4 pounds. As for pics and measurements, those coincide more with my Drop 2 Sizes challenge so I'll post those further along. I kind of didn't care about the physical outcome (meaning weight and measurements) with my Whole30. I did it to get myself back on track after the holidays and I feel like I was 100% successful on that front.
So what now?
I guess I'm transitioning into a paleo/primal thing but I don't want to label it either way. I'll continue to leave grains out for the majority of the time. If I do eat them, you can bet they will absolutely be gluten free. I definitely will keep refined sugar out. There are too many great alternatives out there not to. As far as legumes. I'm not too diligent about that one. I'm not a big bean or peanut butter person to begin with. I bought sunflower butter last week and I believe that might be my replacement for the rare times I want peanut butter. And the only time I really eat beans is with chili. And I make that maybe once or twice a year during the cold months. So I'm really just not going to sweat it. And then there is dairy. My fiance does not do well with dairy so I'll leave that out when I cook. As for me, since he's not eating it that will pretty much mean I'm not since I cook for the both of us. And I have no problem with that.
This week I'll have at some point: tomato soup, a big salad to which I'll add meat, beef stir fry with vegetables, apple cinnamon muffins made with almond flour and the inevitable scrambled eggs. Man, I love some good scrambled eggs.
I also will drink my coffee with unsweetened almond milk which I like just fine. And beef jerky will make an appearance in the snack department as will an apple or 2.
And I'll just take each day and food choice one day at a time.
Monday, January 27, 2014
Drop 2 Sizes: Week 1 Complete and Metabolic Workout review
It's Monday.
And that's all I'm going to say about that.
Just wanted to let you all know that I did my Metabolic Workout!
Lets get down to it.
There are 2 of them: Timed and Countdown.
I did the Timed one this week.
It is 15 minutes. Yes, only 15 minutes. Basically you do a move for 30 seconds and then you rest for 30 seconds. And in those 30 seconds you are supposed to do as many reps of that move as humanly possible. So be prepared to push yourself. You an either half-ass it or go all in. What kinds of moves you ask?
squats, squat-thrusts, lunges, kettle bell/dumbbell swings, and plank type moves to name a few.
And just so you know I went all in. And it was a solid workout. I was sweating, breathing hard and so thankful when it was over. At one point during the workout she mentions that unless you give it all you got, you won't get all the results you want.
And that was the push I needed. Because I want results!
There is also a warm-up and foam roll workout included but I did things a little differently. I did my own standard warm-up and then I chose to do the foam roll AFTER the metabolic workout because there is no cool-down. BTW, the foam roll is only 5 minutes or so. I will definitely be adding the foam roll to my cool down from now on. If you don't have a foam roller, go get one. I happened to have one from my trek to physical therapy last year. I believe it was around $20 or so. I also have a rumble roller but I will definitely be using the foam roller for this one.
And look here, below is the kind of I have and it's only $15. Got to love Amazon.
White Foam Roller 6x36 Round
There you have it folks, that's week 1.
And today starts week #2.
Good times.
And that's all I'm going to say about that.
Just wanted to let you all know that I did my Metabolic Workout!
Lets get down to it.
There are 2 of them: Timed and Countdown.
I did the Timed one this week.
It is 15 minutes. Yes, only 15 minutes. Basically you do a move for 30 seconds and then you rest for 30 seconds. And in those 30 seconds you are supposed to do as many reps of that move as humanly possible. So be prepared to push yourself. You an either half-ass it or go all in. What kinds of moves you ask?
squats, squat-thrusts, lunges, kettle bell/dumbbell swings, and plank type moves to name a few.
And just so you know I went all in. And it was a solid workout. I was sweating, breathing hard and so thankful when it was over. At one point during the workout she mentions that unless you give it all you got, you won't get all the results you want.
And that was the push I needed. Because I want results!
There is also a warm-up and foam roll workout included but I did things a little differently. I did my own standard warm-up and then I chose to do the foam roll AFTER the metabolic workout because there is no cool-down. BTW, the foam roll is only 5 minutes or so. I will definitely be adding the foam roll to my cool down from now on. If you don't have a foam roller, go get one. I happened to have one from my trek to physical therapy last year. I believe it was around $20 or so. I also have a rumble roller but I will definitely be using the foam roller for this one.
And look here, below is the kind of I have and it's only $15. Got to love Amazon.
White Foam Roller 6x36 Round
There you have it folks, that's week 1.
And today starts week #2.
Good times.
