5 weeks out till June 25th show. I'm excited and a little worried that I wont be ready. But I can only bust ass for the next 5 weeks and see what happens. My goal is always to improve each time, I've been a little off not as hard core, but also not beating myself up as much. I burnt out a little, but back on track and excited for bikini season:)
Going to West Palm Beach for Memorial Day weekend, packing all my supps/shakes/figure food, fortunately the place has a great gym and I'll hit the sand for some good beach runs. I could lie and say I wont enjoy a skinny drink, but I know me too well, and may indulge just a little. Q-leani-tini's only! We fly back Memorial day, and from then out I will be in hermit mode till the show.. This trip is over due, excited to get away, have some alone time and enjoy the long weekend with good friends and SUN!
I'm studying for my PT cert again, a little annoyed I let it expire but excited to get back into fitness and training again. Competing has taught me so much and also showed me how ass backwards I was doing things before. Like for example one diet I did before that had me on 800 calories a day. Ummmmm lets just say I was a total bitch and only lasted 3 days. Its pretty simple eat clean, train hard and have proper rest days. When I gain I know exactly why, so its learning to limit the wine and crap, when I'm not "in season"..
I have some big plans and I'm the queen of biting off more than I can chew, but excited to get back to what I love doing..
blogger
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Monday, March 7, 2011
40 days out (+7) yay!
SO found out the original show I wanted to do, but couldn't due to scheduling conflict, changed dates and now I can do that one.. Its closer, in Carver MA, and gives me one more week to train. Lots of new changes all around..
Started working full time, so meals, training and more importantly prioritizing family had to be carefully arranged. Just proof that if you want it bad enough its possible. Yes it requires prep and planning, but it can be done. Too many excuses as to why we can't eat better, and make time to exercise. My new Vitamix is a GOD SEND and enables me to make quick fresh healthy organic meals, super quick!! (seriously should do sales for this company, I am so sold!) with that and the bread machine, I am all about making my own foods, minus the crap;) Oh and I'm trying to be a semi-vegan... raw-vegan too! Bought a cool vegan cookbook, with lots of info, vegan essentials, and creative recipes.. I'm excited to make my own veggie burgers out of just veggies, and not some frozen sodium loaded alternative in the food store.. Also cool to know its just not all about tofu.. Eating used to be all about being thin for me, in my older wiser age, I'm learning its first and for most about health, the weight takes care of itself after that..
Jay is totally on board, he finally realized its about health and not just weight or being "fit".. A few enlightening documentaries later, and hes reading every food label and Googling superfoods, and giving me advice.. I had to tell him to settle down a little, talked him out of buying a 10lb bag of raw cocoa powder, and handed him a beer (which he complained wasn't organic, WHO R U!!??) He's heard all these things from me for years, but I'm just his wife.. what do I know? Joking aside I'm very proud of him, shocked, but happy to see him making healthy changes on his own.. I'm also happy he not only doesn't bitch ab0ut me buying only organic foods, he is refusing to eat anything else.. Is it more money? Yes, but for a reason and worth it..
I'm by no means perfect, sometimes on my quest of health and organic superpower status, I take it too far... Like my idea for brownie bread. I couldn't try it, but my kids faces said it all. Brownies should be brownies and bread should be bread... Per Olivia.. I make so many different breads from the machine, but Travis still wants white bread. So store bought organic "soft white wheat" wins.. but I do have to say the vitamix ice cream was a hit...
SO under 7 weeks to go, and I feel so good this time around.. So much more energy compared to last time.. Time to crank it up.. Workouts will change, cardio will increase, etc. But its fun, I love it, and wouldn't do it if that weren't the case..
Started working full time, so meals, training and more importantly prioritizing family had to be carefully arranged. Just proof that if you want it bad enough its possible. Yes it requires prep and planning, but it can be done. Too many excuses as to why we can't eat better, and make time to exercise. My new Vitamix is a GOD SEND and enables me to make quick fresh healthy organic meals, super quick!! (seriously should do sales for this company, I am so sold!) with that and the bread machine, I am all about making my own foods, minus the crap;) Oh and I'm trying to be a semi-vegan... raw-vegan too! Bought a cool vegan cookbook, with lots of info, vegan essentials, and creative recipes.. I'm excited to make my own veggie burgers out of just veggies, and not some frozen sodium loaded alternative in the food store.. Also cool to know its just not all about tofu.. Eating used to be all about being thin for me, in my older wiser age, I'm learning its first and for most about health, the weight takes care of itself after that..
Jay is totally on board, he finally realized its about health and not just weight or being "fit".. A few enlightening documentaries later, and hes reading every food label and Googling superfoods, and giving me advice.. I had to tell him to settle down a little, talked him out of buying a 10lb bag of raw cocoa powder, and handed him a beer (which he complained wasn't organic, WHO R U!!??) He's heard all these things from me for years, but I'm just his wife.. what do I know? Joking aside I'm very proud of him, shocked, but happy to see him making healthy changes on his own.. I'm also happy he not only doesn't bitch ab0ut me buying only organic foods, he is refusing to eat anything else.. Is it more money? Yes, but for a reason and worth it..
I'm by no means perfect, sometimes on my quest of health and organic superpower status, I take it too far... Like my idea for brownie bread. I couldn't try it, but my kids faces said it all. Brownies should be brownies and bread should be bread... Per Olivia.. I make so many different breads from the machine, but Travis still wants white bread. So store bought organic "soft white wheat" wins.. but I do have to say the vitamix ice cream was a hit...
SO under 7 weeks to go, and I feel so good this time around.. So much more energy compared to last time.. Time to crank it up.. Workouts will change, cardio will increase, etc. But its fun, I love it, and wouldn't do it if that weren't the case..
Thursday, February 17, 2011
58 days, great week, weekly changes, and family
I love my countdown clock on this blog.. haven't posted in a couple weeks so saw it today when I logged in.. wow 58 days, almost 8 weeks to go. There are good and not so good days when competing, dieting and training at 100% but I have to say this week was pretty cool. Instead of being a solo mission I feel this time around I have more support on the home front. Not that they didn't care, or weren't proud of me, but it felt like just my "thing". I couldn't share it with anyone and have them understand why this was so important.
I'll be honest, there were a lot of days during training for competition 1 & 2 that I dropped the ball on my culinary duties for my family. They would eat out, or order pizza once or twice a week, still overall choosing healthier restaurants and food (fresh city etc) and what was eaten at home and lunches were good healthy meals.. This time around so much different.. I cook all the time, of course for me, but for them too. My meals are entirely different from what they eat, but we still eat together as much as we can. This week so far we've eaten at our dining room table mon-wed, I can honestly say that hasn't happened in a loooong time..
Listen, I'm not trying to paint some picture of the perfect family changed by healthy eating.. Because trust me its not that at all.. Jay worked from home the other day so we had lunch together, so sweet right? Yup, until I went into psycho mode and went off about portion control and choices and discipline blah blah blah... Jay looks at me and says "YOU ARE THE BIGGEST PAIN IN THE ASS NAG" He was a little right.. Like we don't need to talk about this all the time. Its just hard not to for me, I love this and think everyone else should be as interested as I am.. But sort of like him talking work stuff, we each sound like Charlie Browns teacher to the other.. Live and let live right??? I have to say he's trying, and making a conscious effort to be more aware.. its not his weight which is the lowest its been since I've known him, its high BP, and other issues that are OMG fixable with proper nutrition and EXERCISE..... baby steps;)
My kids love cooking, and/or shopping with me. We made tacos the other night and not surprising how 3 of our tacos, had significantly less fat, calories and sodium then one taco bell taco.. Olivia helped make our first organic bread in the bread machine.. That thing is just amazing, great feeling to buy all natural ingredients and make your own bread! This morning I made them french toast with the cinnamon raisin bread.. Yummy:)
I don't get to have what they are right now, but it really doesn't bother me. My "diet" doesn't feel like a diet.. I love what I'm eating, and I just feel good. My calories get lower every 2 weeks, minor adjustments as I get closer to the show.. I have moments of insanity, but it passes and I'm ok..
At the end of the day I'm just trying to have my family be healthier, without feeling the need to be restrictive or neurotic (thats my job for 12 weeks). They have everything they love, just cleaner healthier versions.. They have parties at school with "regular" cakes, cookies etc, and they know its ok to have that once in while.. Travis told me a friend at school said "I'll worry about dieting and eating right when I'm 40" but sadly the child obesity rate has tripled in the last 30 years... My hope is to instill good habits now, so they know how to make smart choices when on their own. At the end of the day I'm an advocate for my family, I don't judge others (well maybe a little to myself, just being honest) on what they do for themselves or their kids. Just sad with all the research and info available AND access to healthier choices we are a nation getting fatter and less active with more health issues.. Oh and if I would lobby for anything it would be tax breaks for people living a healthy lifestyle, maintaining healthy weight and other vital stats!
Travis is going to be my guest blogger this week.. He had his own wake up call and wants to share..
I'll be honest, there were a lot of days during training for competition 1 & 2 that I dropped the ball on my culinary duties for my family. They would eat out, or order pizza once or twice a week, still overall choosing healthier restaurants and food (fresh city etc) and what was eaten at home and lunches were good healthy meals.. This time around so much different.. I cook all the time, of course for me, but for them too. My meals are entirely different from what they eat, but we still eat together as much as we can. This week so far we've eaten at our dining room table mon-wed, I can honestly say that hasn't happened in a loooong time..
Listen, I'm not trying to paint some picture of the perfect family changed by healthy eating.. Because trust me its not that at all.. Jay worked from home the other day so we had lunch together, so sweet right? Yup, until I went into psycho mode and went off about portion control and choices and discipline blah blah blah... Jay looks at me and says "YOU ARE THE BIGGEST PAIN IN THE ASS NAG" He was a little right.. Like we don't need to talk about this all the time. Its just hard not to for me, I love this and think everyone else should be as interested as I am.. But sort of like him talking work stuff, we each sound like Charlie Browns teacher to the other.. Live and let live right??? I have to say he's trying, and making a conscious effort to be more aware.. its not his weight which is the lowest its been since I've known him, its high BP, and other issues that are OMG fixable with proper nutrition and EXERCISE..... baby steps;)
My kids love cooking, and/or shopping with me. We made tacos the other night and not surprising how 3 of our tacos, had significantly less fat, calories and sodium then one taco bell taco.. Olivia helped make our first organic bread in the bread machine.. That thing is just amazing, great feeling to buy all natural ingredients and make your own bread! This morning I made them french toast with the cinnamon raisin bread.. Yummy:)
I don't get to have what they are right now, but it really doesn't bother me. My "diet" doesn't feel like a diet.. I love what I'm eating, and I just feel good. My calories get lower every 2 weeks, minor adjustments as I get closer to the show.. I have moments of insanity, but it passes and I'm ok..
At the end of the day I'm just trying to have my family be healthier, without feeling the need to be restrictive or neurotic (thats my job for 12 weeks). They have everything they love, just cleaner healthier versions.. They have parties at school with "regular" cakes, cookies etc, and they know its ok to have that once in while.. Travis told me a friend at school said "I'll worry about dieting and eating right when I'm 40" but sadly the child obesity rate has tripled in the last 30 years... My hope is to instill good habits now, so they know how to make smart choices when on their own. At the end of the day I'm an advocate for my family, I don't judge others (well maybe a little to myself, just being honest) on what they do for themselves or their kids. Just sad with all the research and info available AND access to healthier choices we are a nation getting fatter and less active with more health issues.. Oh and if I would lobby for anything it would be tax breaks for people living a healthy lifestyle, maintaining healthy weight and other vital stats!
Travis is going to be my guest blogger this week.. He had his own wake up call and wants to share..
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
11 weeks out
So I'm under the 12 week mark, so happy I decided to give myself an extra few weeks this time around. I feel incredible and am making it through the final weeks of the NFL season clean (yes, that means no skinny rita's) If I can make it through the loss to the Jets unscathed, Its official, I am SUPER WOMAN!
I feel great, honestly, I don't remember feeling this good during training. I do have days where I feel a little burnt, but overall my energy levels are way up, my workouts are solid and crushing my cardio sessions rather then just trying to get through them.... I attribute a lot of this to the new diet, my meals are more balanced, I'm not starving, and most importantly I am still losing 1-2 lbs each week. I prefer to eat this way, I feel better, look better, and I really do enjoy the food!
My trainer continues to come up with brilliant ways to shock my system, including what we now refer to as the "walk lunge challenge" 30 min of walking lunges around basketball court (or straight-a-way in gym) non stop... This was after training 60 min of HIGH REP LUNGE DAY... It was tough, very very tough, but it kicked my butt and I felt amazing, not to mention my entire lower body for days after! (I made it 20 minutes, but I will do the full 30.. soon!) For now I train most of my split on my own, we do legs together, and soon we will add back in the total body functional day on mondays... I have a love hate relationship with that day.. I am scared on my drive in, and pray to God I can do whatever he has planned.. Its the best feeling when its done, a major accomplishment, and sometimes a nap later on..
I started to add a few early morning cardio sessions, not my favorite, but effective. Tough banging out tough cardio on an empty stomach..
I am literally seeing changes each week, as I should being 100% on, but its just proof if you commit to this even 75-80% you will see results.... I try my best not to get preachy, just see so many struggling to reach their goals because they make it too difficult. Eat clean, watch portions, workout. Sort of makes more sense rather then, lets say, a diet that allows a day of only eating apples if you don't lose X amount of pounds in so many days.... HUH?????
I feel great, honestly, I don't remember feeling this good during training. I do have days where I feel a little burnt, but overall my energy levels are way up, my workouts are solid and crushing my cardio sessions rather then just trying to get through them.... I attribute a lot of this to the new diet, my meals are more balanced, I'm not starving, and most importantly I am still losing 1-2 lbs each week. I prefer to eat this way, I feel better, look better, and I really do enjoy the food!
My trainer continues to come up with brilliant ways to shock my system, including what we now refer to as the "walk lunge challenge" 30 min of walking lunges around basketball court (or straight-a-way in gym) non stop... This was after training 60 min of HIGH REP LUNGE DAY... It was tough, very very tough, but it kicked my butt and I felt amazing, not to mention my entire lower body for days after! (I made it 20 minutes, but I will do the full 30.. soon!) For now I train most of my split on my own, we do legs together, and soon we will add back in the total body functional day on mondays... I have a love hate relationship with that day.. I am scared on my drive in, and pray to God I can do whatever he has planned.. Its the best feeling when its done, a major accomplishment, and sometimes a nap later on..
I started to add a few early morning cardio sessions, not my favorite, but effective. Tough banging out tough cardio on an empty stomach..
I am literally seeing changes each week, as I should being 100% on, but its just proof if you commit to this even 75-80% you will see results.... I try my best not to get preachy, just see so many struggling to reach their goals because they make it too difficult. Eat clean, watch portions, workout. Sort of makes more sense rather then, lets say, a diet that allows a day of only eating apples if you don't lose X amount of pounds in so many days.... HUH?????
Thursday, January 13, 2011
93 days...
I figured I would blog again.. I'm back in hermit training mode, EAT-TRAIN-SLEEP REPEAT.
The holidays were a blast, ending my last pre-diet day in Foxboro, then out for some vino and nachos YUMMMMY!!!
I initially planned to start the official training Jan 17, about 12 weeks out from the April show, but after gaining few extra pounds during the off season (more than I planned) I decided to give myself an extra 2 weeks. I need to be leaner this time, and to be honest I wanted to start the training, I missed it.....
Starting a new diet, I am using a nutritionist this time. Its nice to not have to worry so much about that aspect, he will work with me throughout, changing things as we get closer right up until the show. I just cook it all and eat. So again, no booze, no cheats 100% clean. For me its not hard at all, it takes dedication and will power but I'm not really tempted by anything. Not that it wouldn't be good, but it will be there when I'm done....
Goals for this show:
To be leaner
build more back/Delts/Abs
to be leaner
Pose
just a little leaner...
POSE! POSE! POSE!
My favorite part about competing is lifting, training in the gym, so the posing, walking aspect challenges me. I was more comfortable and less nervous in Oct, but my posing was weak.
Time to dust off the clear heels and practice..
The holidays were a blast, ending my last pre-diet day in Foxboro, then out for some vino and nachos YUMMMMY!!!
I initially planned to start the official training Jan 17, about 12 weeks out from the April show, but after gaining few extra pounds during the off season (more than I planned) I decided to give myself an extra 2 weeks. I need to be leaner this time, and to be honest I wanted to start the training, I missed it.....
Starting a new diet, I am using a nutritionist this time. Its nice to not have to worry so much about that aspect, he will work with me throughout, changing things as we get closer right up until the show. I just cook it all and eat. So again, no booze, no cheats 100% clean. For me its not hard at all, it takes dedication and will power but I'm not really tempted by anything. Not that it wouldn't be good, but it will be there when I'm done....
Goals for this show:
To be leaner
build more back/Delts/Abs
to be leaner
Pose
just a little leaner...
POSE! POSE! POSE!
My favorite part about competing is lifting, training in the gym, so the posing, walking aspect challenges me. I was more comfortable and less nervous in Oct, but my posing was weak.
Time to dust off the clear heels and practice..
Thursday, September 30, 2010
great week, 9 days to go.
The last time I was 9 days out, I did not feel like this. I'm happy, excited and ready to get on stage, yes still nervous and working on my "stage presence", which is not easy for me. I am exhausted feeling pretty banged up, but mentally I am in a much better place this time around. I have very little cravings where as last time I kept thinking about my cheat foods and glass of wine. Of course I will have something good and maybe even a drink, but its not something I obsess over like I did in the past.
Its not exactly easy to eat 100% clean all day for 12 weeks, but in doing so it made me realize I don't "need" those things like I thought I did, and to be honest the pleasure is so momentary and I usually feel like crap after eating junk. Not so much guilty, I literally feel sick, unmotivated and then comes the crash. So why bother?? I am by no means perfect, I am not saying I wont indulge EVER, but the point of it starts to make little sense when for a moment I'm in heaven but then spend the next few hours feeling yucky.
I have always been a really healthy eater, avoiding processed foods, instead choosing clean organic foods majority of the time. BUT when I wanted to cheat I did, and it usually set up a series of cheats. My attitude was well I eat so "good" all the time, I can be "bad" too, I earned it. Then after one cheat it was like well I blew it so I'll keep going and get back to being "good" on Monday. Monday night would sometimes be blown too. Well Tues-Fri I will be "perfect". I never even realized this until a few weeks ago as I was trying to figure out how I had gained 30 pounds over the course of about 4-5 years. Of course there was always the 10 sometimes 15 pound drop thanks to the diet of the month, I would feel good but it wouldn't last and I would slowly creep back to my higher weight. Then my "ideal" weight kept getting higher, because I thought the previous goal was impossible to get back to. It was just this non stop battle with myself. I thought I could only lose weight being on a "diet" was so gung ho at the start, then felt deprived and would fall off, and on and on and on...
This is exactly the reason I started to train for the show, I needed something that wouldn't allow me to get off track. The idea of being in a bikini onstage was scary enough to keep me in check. I remember saying to my trainer one day that I was so afraid of the "after" part of the journey, would I just revert back? It was easy to stay on point having a big challenge, what if there wasn't a countdown to "show day" keeping me in line?? Well the show ended, I had some of my favorite things and realized it was just ok. I preferred eating clean, I felt better, trained harder and had more energy.
Training this time has been for different reasons, because I wanted to do the actual competition and being in much better shape I had a better starting point, and wanted to push myself even harder. My goal is still to do my personal best, and I could care less about what place I come in, but I have to say I LOVE this sport! Is it for everyone? definitely not, but if I can do this anyone can..
Today was a good day, 5 am tough cardio session, noon training session and then posing with my trainer and his boss after.. Lots of laughs, James showing me how to "work it". Former body builder dude helping me with my stage walk! Its so necessary at this point of training to be able to belly laugh!!
Its not exactly easy to eat 100% clean all day for 12 weeks, but in doing so it made me realize I don't "need" those things like I thought I did, and to be honest the pleasure is so momentary and I usually feel like crap after eating junk. Not so much guilty, I literally feel sick, unmotivated and then comes the crash. So why bother?? I am by no means perfect, I am not saying I wont indulge EVER, but the point of it starts to make little sense when for a moment I'm in heaven but then spend the next few hours feeling yucky.
I have always been a really healthy eater, avoiding processed foods, instead choosing clean organic foods majority of the time. BUT when I wanted to cheat I did, and it usually set up a series of cheats. My attitude was well I eat so "good" all the time, I can be "bad" too, I earned it. Then after one cheat it was like well I blew it so I'll keep going and get back to being "good" on Monday. Monday night would sometimes be blown too. Well Tues-Fri I will be "perfect". I never even realized this until a few weeks ago as I was trying to figure out how I had gained 30 pounds over the course of about 4-5 years. Of course there was always the 10 sometimes 15 pound drop thanks to the diet of the month, I would feel good but it wouldn't last and I would slowly creep back to my higher weight. Then my "ideal" weight kept getting higher, because I thought the previous goal was impossible to get back to. It was just this non stop battle with myself. I thought I could only lose weight being on a "diet" was so gung ho at the start, then felt deprived and would fall off, and on and on and on...
This is exactly the reason I started to train for the show, I needed something that wouldn't allow me to get off track. The idea of being in a bikini onstage was scary enough to keep me in check. I remember saying to my trainer one day that I was so afraid of the "after" part of the journey, would I just revert back? It was easy to stay on point having a big challenge, what if there wasn't a countdown to "show day" keeping me in line?? Well the show ended, I had some of my favorite things and realized it was just ok. I preferred eating clean, I felt better, trained harder and had more energy.
Training this time has been for different reasons, because I wanted to do the actual competition and being in much better shape I had a better starting point, and wanted to push myself even harder. My goal is still to do my personal best, and I could care less about what place I come in, but I have to say I LOVE this sport! Is it for everyone? definitely not, but if I can do this anyone can..
Today was a good day, 5 am tough cardio session, noon training session and then posing with my trainer and his boss after.. Lots of laughs, James showing me how to "work it". Former body builder dude helping me with my stage walk! Its so necessary at this point of training to be able to belly laugh!!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
If it were really that easy!
So as I was browsing today in a supplement store a young woman approaches me and asks my opinion on "Fat Burners", I'm thinking how much time do you have?? She looked so overwhelmed searching the shelf stacked with various "miracle" pills, desparate to find the "best" one. Now I need to preface this post with some honesty, I DO use thermagenics/fat burners during my training, but more so to A.) provide some energy, B.)help surpress some cravings and C.) maybe help accelarate fat loss. If you noticed fat loss was last on the list because its really about my training and eating that attribute to a lean physique rather than popping a pill. The fitness models on these ads live and breathe a fit healthy life and yes a supplement can help, but a supplement does exactly that: it SUPPLEMENTS a healthy eating and training plan.
The first question I asked was "well are you looking for something pre-workout" and then followed up with "how is your eating" her response was "well eating right and exercise really haven't worked for me. WHAT?? I did my best in the short few minutes I had to give the most solid advice I could, even recommending more natrual approaches (green tea extract, l-carnatine etc) and taking these things PRE-WORKOUT!
We live in a quick fix society, in my opinion that does not work in regards to being fit. 20 min 3 times a week and crash dieting doesn't cut it, at least not for me or 99% of the people out there. If it were as easy as a pair of sneakers that give you a supermodel behind or a pill that will make you look like a top fitness competitor wouldn't we all be there??? I am not judging this girl, because my god I have been her, looking for that cutting edge product that would solve my yo-yo weight loss ways. But at the end of the day, I knew what I needed to do. Eat right, train hard and indulge in moderation.. Its not flashy but it works!
The first question I asked was "well are you looking for something pre-workout" and then followed up with "how is your eating" her response was "well eating right and exercise really haven't worked for me. WHAT?? I did my best in the short few minutes I had to give the most solid advice I could, even recommending more natrual approaches (green tea extract, l-carnatine etc) and taking these things PRE-WORKOUT!
We live in a quick fix society, in my opinion that does not work in regards to being fit. 20 min 3 times a week and crash dieting doesn't cut it, at least not for me or 99% of the people out there. If it were as easy as a pair of sneakers that give you a supermodel behind or a pill that will make you look like a top fitness competitor wouldn't we all be there??? I am not judging this girl, because my god I have been her, looking for that cutting edge product that would solve my yo-yo weight loss ways. But at the end of the day, I knew what I needed to do. Eat right, train hard and indulge in moderation.. Its not flashy but it works!
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Crunch time
So I'm here again, 18 days to train hard and get ready for the "show". I'm excited but also a little nervous. I feel better about being on stage, but its still something I struggle with, this is a bigger show than last time so that adds to my anxiety a little. I cried during my workout yesterday. I refused to do some complicated exercise combo my trainer was trying to show me, and he got pissed and walked out of the basketball court. I sat on the bench and cried like a little girl, there was more going on than just the workout, some negative feedback about my new found love of training got to me this week. This is something I love, something that has made me healthier, happier and dedicated, but there are still people who question it or slam my commitment to competing. I attribute most of my reaction to being under 3 weeks till the competition, I've worked so hard, I'm tired and a more emotional than normal.
today was a better day, and I realized I don't have to explain myself to anyone. This is my choice and if you don't agree, well guess what I DON'T CARE.
My success isn't defined by a medal, trophy or first place in any category in which I choose to compete. My success is meeting the goal I set for myself. That goal has always been to be the healthiest I could be, without being extreme and/or miserable in my pursuit to be fit. The competition was never the goal, it was the necessary ingredient for me to stay the course and it worked!
anyways.. heading back to the gym for my 2nd cardio session of the day. Love the way I feel after a good sweat:)
today was a better day, and I realized I don't have to explain myself to anyone. This is my choice and if you don't agree, well guess what I DON'T CARE.
My success isn't defined by a medal, trophy or first place in any category in which I choose to compete. My success is meeting the goal I set for myself. That goal has always been to be the healthiest I could be, without being extreme and/or miserable in my pursuit to be fit. The competition was never the goal, it was the necessary ingredient for me to stay the course and it worked!
anyways.. heading back to the gym for my 2nd cardio session of the day. Love the way I feel after a good sweat:)
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Ouch
Its hard to believe after training this long with my trainer that I can still be SO SORE after a leg workout. I attribute that to his creative brain, and coming up with new ways to shock my system. The reason why many stop seeing results is due to lack of variety, doing the same routine, same cardio, same split, same intensity, they plateau, get frustrated YADA YADA. I can honestly say we have never done the same workout twice. EVER. Yes we train the same body parts on certain days, but we always hit them in a variety of ways. Sometimes slow and heavy, sometimes faster, more supersets, less rest etc. Every 6-8 weeks completely changing my split and tweaking weak areas.
I started posing and practicing my T walk. This is the toughest part for me. The "SHOW" part. I am hoping to clean up my stage presence and be able to rock it a little better than last time, But I'm just more comfortable banging out a tough training day in the gym HA HA. I definitely feel more confident and comfortable and I'm actually looking forward to the show:)
The diet is extremely clean and strict, but its not too tough this time around. I am more used to it, but am still dreaming of Pbutter and Dark chocolate.
23 days!!
I started posing and practicing my T walk. This is the toughest part for me. The "SHOW" part. I am hoping to clean up my stage presence and be able to rock it a little better than last time, But I'm just more comfortable banging out a tough training day in the gym HA HA. I definitely feel more confident and comfortable and I'm actually looking forward to the show:)
The diet is extremely clean and strict, but its not too tough this time around. I am more used to it, but am still dreaming of Pbutter and Dark chocolate.
23 days!!
Sunday, September 12, 2010
NFL KIck OFF
So today it literally one of my favorite days of the year. Pats opening day. Normally paired with my home made wings and a side of my margaritas, but instead water and protein. Today is a "rest" day, no carbs, my day consists of protein, veggies and lots of water..
Boring? Yes. But it is what it is and I'm excited about kicking ass for the next 27 days in preparation for Oct 9th.
I got a bunch of emails and feedback this week, asking for advice, sending well wishes and just letting me know that I "inspired them". Not to be corny but I was so touched! I've learned that training for something like this is rewarding and fulfilling, but a little lonely at times. So thanks to everyone and your encouraging words and feedback!
Boring? Yes. But it is what it is and I'm excited about kicking ass for the next 27 days in preparation for Oct 9th.
I got a bunch of emails and feedback this week, asking for advice, sending well wishes and just letting me know that I "inspired them". Not to be corny but I was so touched! I've learned that training for something like this is rewarding and fulfilling, but a little lonely at times. So thanks to everyone and your encouraging words and feedback!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
31 days
Today was just an amazing day. I'm coming off an exhausting weekend that feels like one big pool party BBQ not to mention we threw our son an amazing surprise 13th Bday that lasted 2 days (his first all nighter, a rite of passage for a new teen). Its tough to be social this close to a competition, but I managed to make it through 100% sticking to the plan. Its not a matter of hoping I don't slip, because I won't give in to temptation, but trying to not be a total bitch while hosting these eating/drinking festivals! Fortunately my friends are supportive and understanding, giving me moral support while sipping their glasses of chilled white wine and eating a smores.. LOL. My husband is still "smiling and waving" and avoiding me on low carb days..
Anyways back to my AMAZING day. It hit me today is 31 days until my 2nd Figure competition, and it just feels entirely different this time. I feel stronger, happier and more adjusted to this lifestyle. I have never trained harder for anything and it feels so good to be this dedicated. This isn't just working out and eating right, for me its a sport. You have to live and breathe this for months leading up to a show, and to be honest I love it. I love knowing what I'm doing in the gym or that I get an increase in carbs on my toughest training days. I love being able to do chin ups and things I see only guys do. I love pushing myself (or having my trainer push me) harder than I think I can go. Sometimes its actually hard for me to shut it off, I am better this time about actually "resting" on my rest days. I have been guilty of heading out for a run on a Sunday because I'm "bored"... And of course its amazing to see the physical changes in my body, to look better at 35 after 2 kids then in my 20's is quite an accomplishment. To not struggle with body image or never feeling good enough which has more to do with my emotional journey rather than the physical. I am ok with never being "perfect" because there is no such thing.
For the first time I am not comparing myself to anyone else. I am proud of me and what I've accomplished. I can appreciate someone doing the same thing and be inspired by their success. I am not saying this is easy because there are days when its really hard. I cried the other night, no reason just wanted to be normal, have a cookie and some wine and relax like everyone else. I choose to keep that to myself because this is a choice and I refuse to feel sorry for myself or act like I have to do this. I came back down and joined the group with my casein protein pudding (amazing amazing amazing, all protein no fat or sugar pre-bed treat, this is a saving grace to my training) and I was ok.
Today was leg day. Love training legs. Love getting more carbs after training legs. LOVE LOVE LOVE good carbs.
my workouts this week:
Monday-Total body kick in the ass functional day.
Tues- Cardio/core 50 min interval on stairmaster 100 steps per min 1 min, 70 steps per min 1 min for 50 min.
Wednesday- LEGS!
Thursday- 6am cardio, 11amCHEST/SHOULDERS/TRIS/ABS
Friday-6 am Cardio 11 am Back/Bi's
Saturday-hamstring/glutes/ABS cardio
Sunday-REST DAY
Anyways back to my AMAZING day. It hit me today is 31 days until my 2nd Figure competition, and it just feels entirely different this time. I feel stronger, happier and more adjusted to this lifestyle. I have never trained harder for anything and it feels so good to be this dedicated. This isn't just working out and eating right, for me its a sport. You have to live and breathe this for months leading up to a show, and to be honest I love it. I love knowing what I'm doing in the gym or that I get an increase in carbs on my toughest training days. I love being able to do chin ups and things I see only guys do. I love pushing myself (or having my trainer push me) harder than I think I can go. Sometimes its actually hard for me to shut it off, I am better this time about actually "resting" on my rest days. I have been guilty of heading out for a run on a Sunday because I'm "bored"... And of course its amazing to see the physical changes in my body, to look better at 35 after 2 kids then in my 20's is quite an accomplishment. To not struggle with body image or never feeling good enough which has more to do with my emotional journey rather than the physical. I am ok with never being "perfect" because there is no such thing.
For the first time I am not comparing myself to anyone else. I am proud of me and what I've accomplished. I can appreciate someone doing the same thing and be inspired by their success. I am not saying this is easy because there are days when its really hard. I cried the other night, no reason just wanted to be normal, have a cookie and some wine and relax like everyone else. I choose to keep that to myself because this is a choice and I refuse to feel sorry for myself or act like I have to do this. I came back down and joined the group with my casein protein pudding (amazing amazing amazing, all protein no fat or sugar pre-bed treat, this is a saving grace to my training) and I was ok.
Today was leg day. Love training legs. Love getting more carbs after training legs. LOVE LOVE LOVE good carbs.
my workouts this week:
Monday-Total body kick in the ass functional day.
Tues- Cardio/core 50 min interval on stairmaster 100 steps per min 1 min, 70 steps per min 1 min for 50 min.
Wednesday- LEGS!
Thursday- 6am cardio, 11amCHEST/SHOULDERS/TRIS/ABS
Friday-6 am Cardio 11 am Back/Bi's
Saturday-hamstring/glutes/ABS cardio
Sunday-REST DAY
Monday, August 23, 2010
47 days to go
So my whole approach to training for this competition is very different from last time. I had a significant amount of body fat to lose last time, and my goal was to be "lean" enough to compete. I love being in better shape this time around, stepping it up and really pushing myself to kill each workout in the gym. I wont say that I went through the motions last time, because I worked so hard, but there were some days where I wimped out a little by choosing a less challenging cardio or not giving my all through an entire training session. It just feels different this time.
I told my trainer no excuses, no half ass anything. No more warm up on the elliptical for 5 minutes I will run at least a mile on a good incline before each session with my trainer, and ass kicking cardio sessions throughout the week, the only day I won't do cardio is leg day and Sunday.
Today was a solid quad workout. We are breaking up leg workouts into 2 days. quads one day, glutes and hamstrings on another day. I love this, it really gives me the ability to focus of each muscle group, and hit it hard. This is our last week of "heavier" training. Starting next week, which will mark 6 weeks out and we will really pick up the pace.
As for the "diet" well it doesn't feel like a diet. I know what to eat and when and I am never hungry because I am eating all the time, right up until I go to bed. Now I said never hungry, but I do get cravings.. I'm human and there are some days where I want nothing more then dark choc and peanut butter and LOTS of it. I have insane will power and refuse until Oct 9th to indulge in those cravings...... I am so glad 2 Sundays ago I indulged in all of my favorite things:)
Next week we start a whole new split I'm a little nervous and excited.
I told my trainer no excuses, no half ass anything. No more warm up on the elliptical for 5 minutes I will run at least a mile on a good incline before each session with my trainer, and ass kicking cardio sessions throughout the week, the only day I won't do cardio is leg day and Sunday.
Today was a solid quad workout. We are breaking up leg workouts into 2 days. quads one day, glutes and hamstrings on another day. I love this, it really gives me the ability to focus of each muscle group, and hit it hard. This is our last week of "heavier" training. Starting next week, which will mark 6 weeks out and we will really pick up the pace.
As for the "diet" well it doesn't feel like a diet. I know what to eat and when and I am never hungry because I am eating all the time, right up until I go to bed. Now I said never hungry, but I do get cravings.. I'm human and there are some days where I want nothing more then dark choc and peanut butter and LOTS of it. I have insane will power and refuse until Oct 9th to indulge in those cravings...... I am so glad 2 Sundays ago I indulged in all of my favorite things:)
Next week we start a whole new split I'm a little nervous and excited.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
52 days and counting
SO its back on again for me.. 52 days (under 8 weeks) till the Cape Cod show. I've enjoyed having the last few weeks off.. Although my training and eating were very solid I got to enjoy some adult drinks and foods that were off limits during my 100 days of prep for my first show. Just like last time I will avoid alcohol, sugar, dairy, fruit etc till the competition. I am sure there will be tough tempting days as summer is winding down and we created a south beach like atmosphere in our back yard. I only gained 5 pounds since the show, so my feeling is that this time will be a little easier. It seems like a lot of sacrifice, which I guess it is, but I LOVE it. I have never loved training for something so much. And just like last time I don't want to get up there and have one regret "if I had trained harder, if I had eaten cleaner" etc. That is what keeps me focused and also my trainer telling me "We have 8 pounds of SOFT to lose" normally not a phrase any chic wants to hear, but its the truth. This isn't rocking a cute dress at a party, its clear heals and a figure suit which does little to hide imperfections.
My goals are the same, to train my hardest, eat clean and see what happens. Whatever place I come in still doesn't matter to me in the least bit. I just want to finish, then of course have a victory meal and skinny rita!
I know a lot of people still don't get this, and unless you trained for this specifically you never would. Even Jay who lives with me and had seen me at my best/worst through this process is sometimes a little confused as to what I'm doing. He is supportive and knows when to just smile and wave and to not ask if I'm "ok". As much as I love this, there are days where its just hard to be 100% on, but I will do it:)
For the last few weeks we trained heavier and slower. Now it will start to crank back up again, functional days, more supersets and less rest time. Increasing steadily with cardio, and doing my cardio mostly at 5:30am on an empty stomach (tough for me). Diet gets a lot tighter, still cycling carbs but everything is weighed and measured and no cheat meals. Sunday was my last cheat day and it was a GOOD ONE.. Nachos for lunch, snacking on dark choc espresso beans though out the day, and choco chip cookies and kettle popcorn... I just had to get it all in before starting 8 weeks of tough work:)
My goals are the same, to train my hardest, eat clean and see what happens. Whatever place I come in still doesn't matter to me in the least bit. I just want to finish, then of course have a victory meal and skinny rita!
I know a lot of people still don't get this, and unless you trained for this specifically you never would. Even Jay who lives with me and had seen me at my best/worst through this process is sometimes a little confused as to what I'm doing. He is supportive and knows when to just smile and wave and to not ask if I'm "ok". As much as I love this, there are days where its just hard to be 100% on, but I will do it:)
For the last few weeks we trained heavier and slower. Now it will start to crank back up again, functional days, more supersets and less rest time. Increasing steadily with cardio, and doing my cardio mostly at 5:30am on an empty stomach (tough for me). Diet gets a lot tighter, still cycling carbs but everything is weighed and measured and no cheat meals. Sunday was my last cheat day and it was a GOOD ONE.. Nachos for lunch, snacking on dark choc espresso beans though out the day, and choco chip cookies and kettle popcorn... I just had to get it all in before starting 8 weeks of tough work:)
Monday, June 28, 2010
to be continued...
WOW!!!! I cannot put into words what an amazing journey this has been. Saturday was an experience I will not soon forget. I struggled for years with body image issues, and I felt like I just kicked that right in the face. Not because I looked the "best" because I didn't, not because I came in 5th and not last, but because I could stand there and be proud of who I was and how far I had come. Also because I gave 110% to my training and diet, and worked harder than I ever thought possible.
TO be honest the "Show" part wasn't my favorite aspect of the process, yes the being on stage and showing off my hard work was very cool and not as scary as I thought it would be. The prep of the day was exhausting, and very high maintenance. I do have a girly side, but I'm typically more comfy in a jeans and flip flops.. So the tan, makeup, clear heals glamour part of the show was a little much for me. Still, I will do it again, I LOVED having a goal. Now I have a new goal, to further enhance my fitness level and see how well I can do starting in much better shape.
I had a great day yesterday celebrating with friends and enjoying a fabulous, homemade, low sugar stevia sweetened Sandi-rita!! And its official I am a lightweight now.. I can honestly say booze has lost its appeal to me. I will enjoy a drink here and there but it will not be the norm for me anymore. Honestly not because its "bad" i really just don't want it.
This for me is a lifestyle not a diet, I just prefer to eat clean, and I can see how much its paid off. The great thing is that I can still indulge here and there, its funny my "cheats" have even become healthier. I want an organic dark chocolate peanut butter cup, or some baked sweet potato french fries.. I have learned it is just too easy to eat healthy, and we make it so hard with these wacky diets that are hard to follow. Or we convince our selves we are too busy to eat right, sorry that one is the worst excuse, taking 5-10 minutes out to prep my meals for the day is not hard at all, and I feel so much better.
So I will continue to blog, I think it will be cool to see how training for my second show will go. I will still be eating "clean" but will tone it down in the gym for the next 2 weeks to give my body time to heal. I'll walk, run, do some yoga and total body functional stuff, its very hard for me to "rest" I am all geared up and want to hit the gym hard, but I have been warned to not over train...
Thanks to everyone for all your support, to my family and Husband for cheering me on and putting up with me through the good and bad, to Marie and Carrie for being there to support me (Carrie for making me look beautiful, you are so talented!!) Yenny for posing classes and your diet plan, you are a true Pro and have inspired me so much, and to my trainer, I would not have come this far with out him, in a word GENIUS!!
ON TO THE NEXT ONE!!
TO be honest the "Show" part wasn't my favorite aspect of the process, yes the being on stage and showing off my hard work was very cool and not as scary as I thought it would be. The prep of the day was exhausting, and very high maintenance. I do have a girly side, but I'm typically more comfy in a jeans and flip flops.. So the tan, makeup, clear heals glamour part of the show was a little much for me. Still, I will do it again, I LOVED having a goal. Now I have a new goal, to further enhance my fitness level and see how well I can do starting in much better shape.
I had a great day yesterday celebrating with friends and enjoying a fabulous, homemade, low sugar stevia sweetened Sandi-rita!! And its official I am a lightweight now.. I can honestly say booze has lost its appeal to me. I will enjoy a drink here and there but it will not be the norm for me anymore. Honestly not because its "bad" i really just don't want it.
This for me is a lifestyle not a diet, I just prefer to eat clean, and I can see how much its paid off. The great thing is that I can still indulge here and there, its funny my "cheats" have even become healthier. I want an organic dark chocolate peanut butter cup, or some baked sweet potato french fries.. I have learned it is just too easy to eat healthy, and we make it so hard with these wacky diets that are hard to follow. Or we convince our selves we are too busy to eat right, sorry that one is the worst excuse, taking 5-10 minutes out to prep my meals for the day is not hard at all, and I feel so much better.
So I will continue to blog, I think it will be cool to see how training for my second show will go. I will still be eating "clean" but will tone it down in the gym for the next 2 weeks to give my body time to heal. I'll walk, run, do some yoga and total body functional stuff, its very hard for me to "rest" I am all geared up and want to hit the gym hard, but I have been warned to not over train...
Thanks to everyone for all your support, to my family and Husband for cheering me on and putting up with me through the good and bad, to Marie and Carrie for being there to support me (Carrie for making me look beautiful, you are so talented!!) Yenny for posing classes and your diet plan, you are a true Pro and have inspired me so much, and to my trainer, I would not have come this far with out him, in a word GENIUS!!
ON TO THE NEXT ONE!!
Friday, June 18, 2010
Final week!
So its finally here: one week out from the Show. Feeling a lot of different things right now, I'm excited, nervous, horrified, relieved its almost over, and exhausted.. I have lost 25 pounds total since I started this adventure. I had no idea if I could actually finish, it hasn't been easy but I can honestly say I'm not sure I could have worked any harder or have been any more committed. I do look forward to training for an Oct show, now that I am in significantly better shape.
This week coming will be the hardest yet in regards to diet. I will basically be living on ground chicken or turkey breast and veggies for all 5 meals till Thursday, for Thurs and Fri I am supposed to add some carbs back, Carb loading to fill up the muscles, this makes me nervous, I have never done this so I don't know how my body will respond.. A friend of mine Yenny is a figure pro and she designed my diet, so with all her success and experience I know I am in great hands! I will be drinking only distilled water and cutting my intake down as I get closer to Sat, also using supplements to help rid excess water weight. Of course I am taking all of this very serious, but my goal for my first show wasn't to win or even place for that matter, I just wanted to give 110% to training and finish and more importantly NOT bite the dust on stage in my bedazzled sea green figure suit and clear heels.
I have learned so much about diet/exercise and what my body is capable of if willing to push my limits and truly challenge myself. I can honestly say I would not have come half a far with out Joe, my personal trainer. He just knows his stuff and literally transformed not only my physique but my way of thinking when it comes to training. When I first reached out to him about training I told him I only needed him for leg day, because "I had my plan all mapped out". He said ok, but asked if he could see my intended routine.. In the nicest possible way he ripped my workout to shreds and we completely started over. He designed my program based on my needs, strengths and many weaknesses. So my idea of meeting with him once a week turned into 3-4 times per week for all my strength training, functional training days and boxing. He taught me that my needs were different in regards to training, something that works for someone else isn't necessarily what will work for my body and fitness goals. My goal was to compete in a show, so my training had to match that. It would have been tough to get there with my original plan, He pushed me to do things that I would NEVER have attempted to try on my own. He takes his work so serious and just understands there is not a once size fits all approach to training. Looking back I can see all the mistakes I was making before.. Thanks Joe!! Your the best:) (Granted I get a little credit, I work hard doing my best NOT to bitch and moan (most days;), and my diet was just as strict as my training.)
So I'm excited and nervous, and looking forward to feeling normal again, although it will be a new normal. I worked my ass off and have seen amazing results, I look forward to being able to indulge on occasion, but will continue to train hard and eat clean.. I will blog after the show, this week will be crazy with all the prep work.. But I just wanted to thank everyone for your support, especially my family who may have not always understood what or why I was doing this, but still helped me through the process!! Saturday is sure to be an interesting day... Wish me luck!!
This week coming will be the hardest yet in regards to diet. I will basically be living on ground chicken or turkey breast and veggies for all 5 meals till Thursday, for Thurs and Fri I am supposed to add some carbs back, Carb loading to fill up the muscles, this makes me nervous, I have never done this so I don't know how my body will respond.. A friend of mine Yenny is a figure pro and she designed my diet, so with all her success and experience I know I am in great hands! I will be drinking only distilled water and cutting my intake down as I get closer to Sat, also using supplements to help rid excess water weight. Of course I am taking all of this very serious, but my goal for my first show wasn't to win or even place for that matter, I just wanted to give 110% to training and finish and more importantly NOT bite the dust on stage in my bedazzled sea green figure suit and clear heels.
I have learned so much about diet/exercise and what my body is capable of if willing to push my limits and truly challenge myself. I can honestly say I would not have come half a far with out Joe, my personal trainer. He just knows his stuff and literally transformed not only my physique but my way of thinking when it comes to training. When I first reached out to him about training I told him I only needed him for leg day, because "I had my plan all mapped out". He said ok, but asked if he could see my intended routine.. In the nicest possible way he ripped my workout to shreds and we completely started over. He designed my program based on my needs, strengths and many weaknesses. So my idea of meeting with him once a week turned into 3-4 times per week for all my strength training, functional training days and boxing. He taught me that my needs were different in regards to training, something that works for someone else isn't necessarily what will work for my body and fitness goals. My goal was to compete in a show, so my training had to match that. It would have been tough to get there with my original plan, He pushed me to do things that I would NEVER have attempted to try on my own. He takes his work so serious and just understands there is not a once size fits all approach to training. Looking back I can see all the mistakes I was making before.. Thanks Joe!! Your the best:) (Granted I get a little credit, I work hard doing my best NOT to bitch and moan (most days;), and my diet was just as strict as my training.)
So I'm excited and nervous, and looking forward to feeling normal again, although it will be a new normal. I worked my ass off and have seen amazing results, I look forward to being able to indulge on occasion, but will continue to train hard and eat clean.. I will blog after the show, this week will be crazy with all the prep work.. But I just wanted to thank everyone for your support, especially my family who may have not always understood what or why I was doing this, but still helped me through the process!! Saturday is sure to be an interesting day... Wish me luck!!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
17 days to go.. Crunch time.
This week it really started to hit me that in less then 3 weeks I will be walking on stage showing off all my hard work. Im scared to DEATH, but trying to get over my fears and just do it. I had my first posing class on Sunday with my friend Yenny who is a fitness Pro, so happy to be learning from her!! Its more then just walking out on stage, and to be honest I don't feel very good at it. It feels a little cheesy, and something I might laugh at.. But I need to get over it and work it the best I can.
I am down 22 pounds since I started training for the show. I am blown away at how much I have changed, not just physically but mentally as well. I am planning another show for the fall but I look forward to feeling "normal" again, not that I will go back to my old ways, honestly I just want some fruit!! Eating so clean has made simple things feel like an indulgence, 1/2 a cup of sweet potatoes on my "high" carb day tastes like candy, and a rice cake with almond butter and sugar free jelly is just AMAZING!!
This week my cardio drastically increased, 2 hrs on cardio days ( hour at 5 am and hour later in evening) and an hour on my training days. Its not easy as my carbs are significantly lower, but having only 17 days to go keeps me motivated!
I don't always feel so upbeat, not going to lie, there are days when I want to cry and sometimes I do. I can be a bitch, ask my trainer or my family. I try my best not to complain, no one if forcing me to do this, I chose to to do this. Overall its been amazing, excited for the show!!
I am down 22 pounds since I started training for the show. I am blown away at how much I have changed, not just physically but mentally as well. I am planning another show for the fall but I look forward to feeling "normal" again, not that I will go back to my old ways, honestly I just want some fruit!! Eating so clean has made simple things feel like an indulgence, 1/2 a cup of sweet potatoes on my "high" carb day tastes like candy, and a rice cake with almond butter and sugar free jelly is just AMAZING!!
This week my cardio drastically increased, 2 hrs on cardio days ( hour at 5 am and hour later in evening) and an hour on my training days. Its not easy as my carbs are significantly lower, but having only 17 days to go keeps me motivated!
I don't always feel so upbeat, not going to lie, there are days when I want to cry and sometimes I do. I can be a bitch, ask my trainer or my family. I try my best not to complain, no one if forcing me to do this, I chose to to do this. Overall its been amazing, excited for the show!!
Friday, May 28, 2010
4 weeks
Im starting to panic a little, I have a lot to do and very little time. Not so much with training and diet, but with posing and getting my suit ready for the show. I have officially lost 18 pounds and am down to 135. Haven't seen that number in a long time! No matter what happens the day of the show, I am proud of my efforts and accomplishments so far. This is not a one time thing for me, and my attitude towards eating and training have changed drastically..
This process is not only physically demanding but mentally as well. I have heard time and time again how this can be a very lonely sport, and I have experienced that on and off. Unless someone has gone through it, they truly can't relate. This has been the most challenging experience I have yet to have, but also the most rewarding. I've learned so much about myself and what I am capable of doing. For me this this isn't about winning and it never was. This is an individual sport, not that I don't ever thing about the other competitors and how they are training, but at the end of the day its up to me (and thank GOD my trainer) to make sure I am working as hard as I can to get to where I should be.
This process has been trial and error for me. Its my first show, I started training a little later than I would have liked but that only pushed me harder. I wouldn't have gotten half as far with out my trainer, he says I'm the one doing the work, but I would NEVER do half the shit he makes me do on my own.
So tomorrow marks 4 weeks out from the show. I am nervous and excited....
This process is not only physically demanding but mentally as well. I have heard time and time again how this can be a very lonely sport, and I have experienced that on and off. Unless someone has gone through it, they truly can't relate. This has been the most challenging experience I have yet to have, but also the most rewarding. I've learned so much about myself and what I am capable of doing. For me this this isn't about winning and it never was. This is an individual sport, not that I don't ever thing about the other competitors and how they are training, but at the end of the day its up to me (and thank GOD my trainer) to make sure I am working as hard as I can to get to where I should be.
This process has been trial and error for me. Its my first show, I started training a little later than I would have liked but that only pushed me harder. I wouldn't have gotten half as far with out my trainer, he says I'm the one doing the work, but I would NEVER do half the shit he makes me do on my own.
So tomorrow marks 4 weeks out from the show. I am nervous and excited....
Monday, May 17, 2010
6 weeks to go
So I have 6 weeks till the show.. Not gonna lie, felt like a total basket case this weekend.. I had a lot of doubts whether or not I'm where I should be, I guess that's normal as I have never done anything like this before. I had a great chat with a friend who is currently training for a figure show about 4 weeks after mine.. It was a much needed therapy session, having someone who could 100% relate, give great advice and just validate some of my craziness was so nice..... I had some major concerns about the 6 week out diet. She gave me some great advice which I began to apply this week. I am trying "carb cycling" which is more carbs on high intensity training days, and low to moderate carb on less intense or non training days. The idea is to not allow your body to plateau, helping to boost your metabolism.. Here's hoping it works for me!!
Its scary because at this point its all trial and error.. At this point no fruit till the show, and it takes my diet to a new level of strictness. Fortunately I am so focused and had time to adjust so hopefully I will be ok.. She did tell me to prepare for some hell days as I get closer... Its not easy some days to do this, I have kids a house and a husband to take care of, thankfully they have all been incredibly supportive. My kids do not see this as a diet, Olivia says "Mommy we are all eating clean!" She is a huge fan of oatmeal and strawberries, and she apologizes if she eats a cookie in front of me, says she wishes I could have one too!
Its scary because at this point its all trial and error.. At this point no fruit till the show, and it takes my diet to a new level of strictness. Fortunately I am so focused and had time to adjust so hopefully I will be ok.. She did tell me to prepare for some hell days as I get closer... Its not easy some days to do this, I have kids a house and a husband to take care of, thankfully they have all been incredibly supportive. My kids do not see this as a diet, Olivia says "Mommy we are all eating clean!" She is a huge fan of oatmeal and strawberries, and she apologizes if she eats a cookie in front of me, says she wishes I could have one too!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
A little over 6 weeks to go!
This morning started off great. I weighed in at 137, down a total of 16 pounds! It was the boost I needed to make it through today's insane workout by Joe: a cardio day consisting of boxing and crazy stuff on the basket ball court.. suicides, jumps over hurdles, plate pushing, ladders, etc... It was awesome and a needed switch from the stairmaster, row machine and running. After getting yelled at the day before for sucking ass, I tried my best to push through without stopping..
I am fighting for every pound, trying hard not too focus too much on the scale but I have yet to do my body fat so its a good gauge for me right now, so are my jeans which I am down at least 2 sizes!
This Saturday will start the six week countdown. I need to start learning my "stage walk" and posing.. this will be the hardest part for me.. I am so afraid of walking out on that stage, I have nightmares, so I best be prepared!!
Friday, May 7, 2010
7 weeks to go..
This was a great week.. I am officially in the 130's, 138 to be exact, down a total of 15 pounds proof that dedication and of course a great trainer pays off. I feel great, although need some new clothes!! Not a bad thing. I have 51 days till the show and I am so motivated to keep kicking my ass. Yes its a lot of work, but also incredibly rewarding. This entry is short, sorry but the B's, C's and Sox are on tonight;) New Pics coming soon!!!
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