Tuesday, October 25, 2011

My Fight Against the Michelin Man

The Michelin man look is not a good look on me.  I know it's all about what's inside, but the outside  is adversely affecting the inside. I saw a great deal for Jillian Michaels' online program.  My husband saw the same deal several weeks later and mentioned it to me.  Of course, my link had expired, but he found his link and it worked.  So now I've signed up for Jillian Michaels' website for SIX MONTHS!!!  Since I've been neglecting my blog, I have decided to blog about my experience, lessons, etc.

I have been listening to Jillian's podcasts on iTunes.  If you haven't listened to one, you're missing out.  She and Janice have a blast and with her expertise and that of here guests, one can definitely learn a lot.  You also get to see more than one side of her--some of her callers can definitely attest to that.

I also have Mastering Your Metabolism so I know her angle.  Eat whole organic foods.( No High Fructose Corn Syrup, No pesticides, No genetically modified anything, Avoid processed food whenever possible) If it doesn't have a momma or grow out of  the ground, DON'T EAT IT!!  That sounds great, but it is easier said than done.  We eat so much junk that we crave it. That combined with the emotional factor that a lot of us have and our sedentary lifestyles is a recipe for disaster.

Most of the problems that I have experienced since I started the program are self-made:

I haven't religiously kept track of my calories in and calories out.  In a past life, I was religious about that, but I am struggling to get back in the habit. The website has an online journal, but the database on myfitnesspal.com is larger.  If I will just do this, I can use myfitnesspal.com for my food and exercise journal.  It's available on PC or smartphone.
I have made some poor food choices since I started.  Let's talk about fried catfish.  You know I'm a Southern girl and that is a major weakness for me.  Next was pizza even though I did manage to limit it to two small pieces with fruit and later popcorn.  Finally a trip to In-N-Out.  Animal Protein style (lettuce instead of bread with grilled onions) I forgot and got the sauce instead of mustard, but only a couple of my husband's fries and NO SHAKE!!  The days that I did well, I planned my meals and made sure there were healthy choices in my fridge and pantry.
I am fighting the expense vs organic issue.  I know very well what I should buy, but I am also about the deals and using my coupons. Let's face it, it is more expensive to eat healthy--what a shame.  I know I will make it work.  I'm too stubborn and cheap to not get a deal, so here's the plan.  Check all of the circulars, websites for coupons, deals, sales, freebies.  Make sure an item really has to be organic.  Foods that will be peeled don't have to be organic.  I shop at Sprouts frequently and they have the best sales on produce, frozen organic foods, dairy, and meat.  I'll use the money saved from other deals to fund the healthy stuff.
I stay up too late. I know about hormones and sleep, and getting hungry because I'm up too late.  I have always been a night owl.  I worked second shift forever, but I have to get my rest.  No amount of nagging will change my internal clock.  Some days I won't make it to bed when I should, but if I make that effort, I will eventually get there earlier.
My fitness level is not what it used to be.  I have really lost ground in this area.  Even before I started gaining weight, I was struggling.  At that time it was heat and asthma.  Now it's conditioning and the added pounds.  If anyone knows how to get past the pain when you're overweight and trying to exercise, please let me know.  I have been going to they gym, but between my knees, and back, I've been relegated to the bike with an occasional session on the elliptical.  I am trying to do the workouts on my program and I have to remember that I won't be able to do the full number of sets, but eventually I will.  Back in the day, I could easily do 30 Day Shred, but now that's just not possible.  If I keep working, I'll be back there.

Now for the good news. I have lost five pounds in the last couple of weeks. I know that's not monumental, but it's a start and a little much needed momentum.  Until next time.....

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Heart Walk

I have several posts coming up, but this one is overdue.

One of the main reasons that I keep fighting the health and fitness battle is because I have a family history of stroke and hypertension. This makes my participation in the American Heart Association Heart Walk personal.  It's not only about the patients that I have encountered over the years, it's about my health, and the health of my family and my extended family.

I received an email today that gave examples of what your contribution means...


Did you know…1 in 3 Americans suffer from heart and blood vessel diseases – our nation’s leading cause of death?
 
What the donations mean…
 
  • For a $25 contribution to the American Heart Association, you can teach up to 50 people how to assess their risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke, and provide the steps for them to identify and reduce their risk.
 
  • A $50 donation can provide an early career scientist with the opportunity to participate with peers in the latest cardiovascular and stroke research through a one year professional membership with the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association.
 
  • For only $100, you can equip one hospital or health department with American Stroke Association resources to educate patients, the public, and health professionals on stroke prevention and life after a stroke – the #3 cause of death and leading cause of disability.

The Denton Heart Walk is Saturday, October 15.  If you would like to contribute, please click here It will take you to my donation page.


THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!