T'S FITNESS JOURNEY

PACE

2009-12-04T09:26:00.000-08:00

Since May, I have been to the gym maybe 3 or 4 times which is awful (I know), but a good friend of mine got me interested in a cardio program called PACE. There is a book that this comes from that I hope to get from her this weekend, but she has lined me out on a workout to start.

So today I am going to go hit the gym and see how it goes, but it sounds like a lot of fun although since it's been forever since I went to the gym last, it's going to be painful!

Here is a latest picture of myself and you can see how I have let myself go once again with all the stress of work and looking for a job now that my last company went bankrupt.. boy oh boy...

So Bad...

2009-05-18T20:29:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been over a year now since I have been consistent with going to the gym and I have gained back quite a bit of the weight that I had lost :( A lot of it had to do with the fact that I switched jobs and could not get into the habit of fitting the gym into my busy/stressful work life.

But I have once again changed jobs, and so I am about to start getting into the gym again. Becoming consistent is the toughest part of going to the gym. It seems that 90% of weightloss, is just dragging my lazy butt out of bed to the gym. It is really tough, and that is why my blog is labelled "journey!"

I am going to start with arms tomorrow because that is my favorite muscle to work, and I hope to keep it up and I will start posting again to keep myself honest and keep myself going...

Ode to the Gym

2008-11-17T18:52:00.000-08:00

If you have been reading my blog for any length of time, you will realize that I have obviously not been posting. I have a thousand excuses for why I haven't been posting, exercising, eating right, but first and foremost, it is my own doing...

Since I started at my last company a year ago September, I have repeatedly failed to go back to the gym and because of that I have been "eh what's another coffee drink or dessert?"... Stupid me of course!! Believe me I know... I know... and because of my own pitfalls, I have gained more weight than I would like to admit.

But anyway, I have switched jobs again and now I am less stressed and feel like I have more time on my hands, so back to the gym I go! Today is my 2nd day back, and I feel so completely out of shape and very sore lol.... but I love it so much!

Sorry for the delay...

2008-06-22T17:30:00.000-07:00

Okay well I've done almost absolutely nothing since I last posted lol... It's very bad I know and I plan on remedying that problem this week. Since last I posted, I changed gyms to 24 hour fitness from LA fitness since there is a 24 hour right down the street from my job. If everything goes according to my new plan, I will be able to go to the gym 3x during the week at lunchtime and then both Saturdays and Sundays.

It's been such a struggle getting back into the swing of things since I changed jobs, but it has just been a good excuse to be lazy. I've got too many things riding on all of this that I'm going back! No more BS and whining... I just have to kick myself and do it otherwise I will never be satisfied with who I am.

Sucks

2008-04-20T08:34:00.000-07:00

Ha, I've gotten nothing accomplished health wise in the last couple of months. Since I changed jobs, I've had a really hard time getting back into the gym and have quite frankly been unmotivated. Anyway, I've been reading these business books to get myself more aware of myself and the people around me, and I realized that taking care of myself should be one of my top priorities since I only get one chance at this life, and I want to be healthy and proud of who I am.

So this morning, I am going to hit the gym. I already know that it is going to SUCK quite a bit, but I know that it will be worth it in how I feel and my whole demeanor.

Keep on Keeping on!!

2008-02-18T08:45:00.000-08:00

I think one of the hardest things in this whole weightloss journey is to just keep going. It seems so simple, yet it is the hardest thing to do and which is why there is such a high number of overweight people in the United States. If we could only become discipline enough then we wouldn't have this problem.

Anyway, I just wanted to encourage you to keep on keeping on! You owe it to yourself, and only getting past our laziness can we make gains. It is so easy to get complacent and say "well, I will eat this bad thing just today." But it's those decisions that keep us from our goals. I of course am very guilty of all of this which is why I need to remind myself all the time, and so I figured I would remind you as well.

75% Food In Take, 25% Gym workout

2008-02-09T11:31:00.000-08:00

75% of weight loss gains have to do with what you eat. That stupid cliche of a saying "you are what you eat" is surprising pretty true. While going to the gym and exercising is essential to your body's health, you must also watch what you eat. If you work out hard and yet eat like crap, then you will make no gains. This is something that I have found to be true of myself. I have started to eat very good again and now I am starting to see the gains. It's amazing what happens when you stay true to your eating habits. Stick with it! You owe it to yourself!

January Food Schedule

2008-01-06T19:41:00.000-08:00

Here is the food schedule that I have put together for January. I will probably add or change things to this as time goes on, but for now, this works out best for me.

Monday thru Friday
5:30 am - Protein Shake + Vitamins
6:30 am - Bagel w/ Jam
9:00 am - Breakfast Bar or Yogurt
11:00 am - Sandwich(turkey, mustard, whole grain bread, cheese) with fruit
2:00 pm - String Cheese
5:00 pm - Crackers
6:30-7:00 pm - Small low carb dinner

Saturday and Sunday
(this is hard to figure out what to eat since I don't usually have a structured weekend but here is what I've tried to come up with so far)
9ish am - Breakfast Bar + Vitamins
12ish pm - Small Lunch or Jamba Juice
2:30ish pm - Fruit or crackers
5:30ish pm - Small low carb dinner

And with all of this I have to remember to try to say NO to the following:
Coffee
Coffee Pastries
Ice Cream
Dipped Cones
Soda
Beer

January Workout Schedule

2008-01-06T19:33:00.000-08:00

So after my husband and I talked about going on a trip this year for our 5th wedding anniversary, I have a new determination to look good for our trip since our possible trip destinations are probably going to be somewhere in Mexico in the summer. Anyway, with that in mind, I have come up with my January workout schedule, and as soon as I am done posting this, I will also post my January food schedule as well. I would like to focus a bit more on the running this year, but also keeping to my weights. I love lifting so I am not going to get away with that, but I think instead of lifting heavy, I am going to lift lighter but with more reps. We will see how it goes.

Monday
Arms
Back
1 Mile Run
Tuesday
Elliptical
1.5 Mile Run
Stairs
Wednesday
Chest
Shoulders
1 Mile Run
Thursday
Bike
2 Mile Run
Elliptical
Friday
Elliptical
Legs
Abs
Saturday
Outside bike ride or 3 mile outside run
Sunday
Rest

Starting the '08 out right!

2008-01-01T14:22:00.000-08:00

I went to the gym this morning and did a light arm workout just to get my body back in the motions. My arms are going to be sore tomorrow!! Aye! I guess that is what happens when you stop going to the gym for a little while, and then you head back to it. Chris and I did go biking today around some trails in San Marcos. It was a lot of fun, but my legs are a bit Jello now after going up some big hills. Lots of effort, but at least it is for an excellent cause!

New Bike!!

2007-12-30T11:06:00.000-08:00

My husband and I got mountain bikes for Christmas. Here is a picture of mine courtesy of Trek's Webpage. So far the bike has been a lot of fun and we've enjoyed biking around lake hodges (although most of it is charred black from the recent fires). Anyway, we are going biking again today and I hope to get some more pictures! Not to mention, it is great exercise and getting out into nature :)

Slacking

2007-12-28T15:00:00.000-08:00

So long time no post I know! I have been terrible.... I went to sign up for the 24 hour fitness that is right near my new work, but they are just way too expensive. Anyway, so I haven't been able to make it to the gym much during the week, but Chris and I got mountain bikes and we have been biking around lake hodges and on Coronado. Anyway, with the new year and the new bikes, I'm back into action once again.

Back to the Grind

2007-10-28T19:10:00.000-07:00

Well, after getting a new job and trying to figure out my schedule to include the gym, I think I am finally back on track. I started up with the gym again and it feels so good to be back. I've really been missing it. Anyway, I hope to push these next couple of months and get down to my original goal. I've stayed right around the same weight since last, but I just have to push to get further along. Watch me go!!

Fire Pictures Part 3

2007-10-23T18:31:00.000-07:00

View from my balcony Wednesday at 12 pm

San Marcos Tuesday 5ish pm

Escondido Fire Part 2

2007-10-23T18:22:00.001-07:00

More Pictures from Balcony

Pictures from San Marcos Monday Morning:

Fire Pictures in Escondido

2007-10-23T18:16:00.000-07:00

Pictures from My Balcony in Escondido: Monday Morning

Seems Like Forever

2007-09-09T18:47:00.000-07:00

Seems like forever since I posted last. I suppose that it has to do with the fact that I haven't gone to the gym in a couple of weeks due to job hunting. Well, I've held a constant weight because I've been eating good these couple of weeks I haven't been going, but I'm back at the gym starting today. I went in and did a light arm workout, and I felt like a little girl because I was stuck using the 10 pounds, but I don't want to hurt myself my first day back lol. Anyway, I'm back into and yes I did find another job and so I start that in 2 weeks. Can't wait :)

Running Dilemma

2007-08-19T10:54:00.000-07:00

I'm having a running problem... I like lifting weights, and I know what it is one of the only ways to strengthen my legs so that I can run easier and quicker. The only problem is that when I do squats or lunges, I get thrown out of commission because my legs become noodles and they hurt too much to run which puts a damper on me trying to run for like a whole week. So I've decided for now that I'm going to work on strengthening my legs and if that means putting off the next 5k for a couple months I will be okay with that. I want to get to the point that I can do squats and lunges and be sore but not in pain where I can run, and that is going to take a little while to strengthen up. I've got to work on it now or I won't ever be strong and I will just continue to get frustrated when I can't run :(

Oceanside Run

2007-08-12T10:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, my husband and I ran 3 miles on the Oceanside Beach. It was my first time every running in the sand, and it is a bit tough lol... My legs are definately feeling it today, but it was still a lot of fun with all the sites, sounds, people, and beach right there. Chris and I are going to try to go running together now on the weekends since the weekdays don't work so good for us in that regard. My next 5k is coming up at the end of September so I want to be in the best shape for it, and actually be prepared this time lol

Picture Progress

2007-08-08T20:34:00.001-07:00

Okay so it's been forever since I posted a picture last. Here is one of me today at Oceanside. It came in a little blurry, but I think it's a good sign of where I am at now :)

And just to compare, here's me before working out (and I don't know why I have a towel on my head for this picture lol):

Life Stresses

2007-08-04T10:17:00.000-07:00

So I've been a bit overwhelmed with work and school over the past 2 weeks, and I haven't made it into the gym much which is very sad :( I've been going running with Chris on the weekends to at least get going on that since there is another 5k I want to run at the end of September. We are actually going today down to the miramar lake again and go running. It's a nice break from always running on the treadmill and the run is beautiful. So needless to say, I've stalled again on the whole weight loss thing, but I am not gaining or losing. My body's metabolism has caught up with my new weight and has equalized. I need to get back into the gym everyday like I was and shock my body again. But as I've been learning in class, it's not about the weight loss, but it needs to be about living healthy and the weight loss will come from making healthy life changes which is what I have been doing.

5K Results

2007-07-22T10:20:00.000-07:00

Well, I ran the first 1.5 miles no problem... I was actually doing quite well but then I felt terrible lol... I got through it in 37 minutes even which isn't very good, but I had to walk a bit after that 1.5/2 mile marker. So it was pretty bad, but I was thinking of the one I ran in December of last year, and I must have been going at snail speed because I didn't walk in that one and my time was close to today's where I walked a bit. So I guess I'm speeding up a little, but I just need to train more and not have weeks like I did last week. Oh well... another's coming up in September so more training...

5k tomorrow!

2007-07-21T22:18:00.000-07:00

Sorry for not posting. I've got a lot on my plate these past couple of weeks with school, work, and personal stuff so I haven't had a chance to post. But anyway, just to keep you in the loop, I have my 5k tomorrow in downtown San Diego. I'm running the San Diego Blood Bank 5k run/walk tomorrow. I wasn't able to make it to the gym much last week and so I'm hoping that tomorrow's race isn't horrible lol... I guess we'll see. Chris is running it with me again :)

Underage & Overweight by Frances M. Berg

2007-07-08T23:22:00.000-07:00

Everyone should read this Book "Underage & Overweight" by Frances M. Berg. This is the most powerful book I have read regarding obesity. I wish someone had told me about all this when I was a kid or had directed me somehow into the right thinking. Now at 25 years old, I am learning about all the misconceptions that I had and even still have to this day. I highly recommend that everyone read this book for those trying to lose weight. It is very well worth it!

Here is a link that talks a little bit about the book, but you can get it anywhere... http://hatherleighpress.stores.yahoo.net/unov.html

Diets do not work...

2007-07-08T23:07:00.000-07:00

Dieting does not work. We all have gone on a diet, and we might lose a few pounds here and there, but as soon as we are off the diet, we gain the weight right back and even more weight than when we started.

You have to get past the diet part, and move on to a new perspective. You have to make the choice to make exercise and eating healthy a life change. You need to change your thinking that you can "quick fix" your weight through just dieting. You have to accept the fact that to live life to the fullness and healthiest, you need to be into this for life. Only then can you be successful in your weight loss goals. This is what I've had to learn the hard way, but now, I work hard for my gains, and you owe it to yourself to do the same.

Arm Workout

2007-07-08T21:08:00.000-07:00

My friend put this amazing arm workout together for me that I did this past Friday. If you ever want to shake up your workout, this is a perfect one to do. I can curl 20's pretty good, and I'm actually starting to try the 25's, but by the end of this workout, I was failing with 5 pounds haha!
************************************************************************************
Bi’s

1^st – Seated D-bell curls superset with, Concentration curls (3 sets…very heavy on the d-bell curls, 1x8,1x6,1x4 but on the concentration curls do 3x 12-20 reps

-----------------------

2^nd – Standing Barbell Curls (power) superset with, Standing or seated Hammer curls (3 sets…very heavy on the barbell curls, 1x8, 1x6, 1x4 but on the Hammer curls do 3x 12-20 reps

-----------------------

3^rd – Preacher Curls (power) superset with, 1 arm at a time d-bell preacher curls (3 sets…very heavy on the Preacher Curls, 1x8, 1x6, 1x4 but on the 1 arm d-bell preachers do 3x 12-20 reps

-----------------------

4th - grab a light barbell and do a set of 21's and that's it for bi's

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

Tri’s

1^st – French Presses (Skull Crushers) superset with, Close grip bench press (3 sets…very heavy on the Crushers, 1x8, 1x6, 1x4 but on the close grip presses do 3x 12-20 reps

-----------------------

2nd - 1 arm seated d-bell extensions (heavy) superset with, either kickbacks or laying extensions d-bell... (3 sets.. very heavy with the seated extensions, 1x8, 1x6, 1x4 but on the kickbacks or... 2x 12-20 reps)

-----------------------

3rd - Cable pushdowns (heavy) superset with, 1 arm cable extensions... (3 sets very heavy with the cable pushdowns... 3x12-20 reps with the other)

-----------------------

4th – seated machine pushdowns (1 set…pyramid down stack) start at a heavy weight and do 4 reps and keep dropping weight while increasing your reps till you can’t do anymore!

Weight vs Overall Body Composition

2007-07-08T20:25:00.000-07:00

So as I've previously mentioned, my goal is to lose 100 pounds which I am slowly making my way towards. Now, I've been holding the same weight for a couple of months now of about 188 pounds, but I am down a size in clothing. My overall weight is holding, but I am building muscle and burning fat at the same time. Which is a bit frustrating when you are trying to lose weight, but I realized that a few months ago there would have been no way I could fit into the size I am in now at the same weight so I know I am building muscle and I am getting much stronger. I still have fat to burn as I am not slim yet, but I don't think that I will be able to get tiny. I was watching the sports channel at the gym while I was running, and they showed a clip of Serena Williams. After looking at her physique and built, I think I am much more inclined to be built like her. So my new goal is to continue to lift and gain muscle, lose weight, but also to get a physique like hers...

Pictures

2007-07-04T09:44:00.000-07:00

So I was flipping through some old pictures, and I found these two similiar style pictures taken from before I started eating right and going to the gym (~ 1.5 years ago) and a picture about 1 year into working out... I'm still on my way to losing about 40 more pounds but here's some idea of where I was...

Before Gym

About 1 Year into the Gym

Best way to lose Weight

2007-06-28T21:31:00.000-07:00

So, I've been learning so much about our bodies and what we need and how we absorb nutrients. So after studying this and talking to the my professor (who is also a doctor), the best way to start losing weight is to do moderate to intense longer duration workouts such as Brisk walking for 30 to 60 minutes each day, or swimming for the same amount of time (of course this is for people just starting). The reason for wanting to do longer periods of moderate cardio is because your body uses its fat to fuel your exercising. As your increase your exercise to say sprinting your body begins using carbohydrates as it's fuel and when you deplete your carbohydrates in your body you will start to fatigue. Therefore, when you do moderate/intense workouts your body's primary fuel is fat rather than carbohydrates and your body therefore burns fat which is the ultimate goal. As increase your endurance, you will be able to do longer workouts at higher intensity but still using fat rather than carbs as your body adjusts...

This stuff is just so fascinating and I keep learning all these wonderful tidbits. I wish that someone had told me or shown me this growing up because I missed out quite about on how to eat a balanced diet. I hope to share with you the things that I learn so that if you are in the same boat I am can also learn from it.

MyPyramid

2007-06-24T08:54:00.000-07:00

A lot of people ask me about how I've managed to lose weight, and my answer to them is "eat healthy and exercise." Now, I've figured out what has worked for me in the things that I eat, but I know that what I eat doesn't work for everyone. In my nutrition class, it was mentioned that there is a webpage you can log into that gives good and helpful advice about your physical activity and eating habits. I think it's pretty good, and if anything, it's a great place to start for those needing more advice than I can give. Anyway, check it out: http://www.mypyramid.gov/

Sports Nutrition Class

2007-06-20T20:52:00.000-07:00

I enrolled and went to my first sports nutrition class that they offer at the junior college where I live. I am so excited about the class!! I am going to finally learn the science and applicability of nutrition in sports and in just every day life.

I usually get asked by people what I do or how I eat to lose weight. I usually tell them what has worked for me, but I think nutritional needs are very individual. I can give them ideas like "Well don't eat that chocolate cake", but that is basic knowledge that I think everyone knows that eating chocolate cake is not good for you. So, by taking this class I will be able to learn exactly what fuel your body needs to function properly and efficiently, and give good solid advice to people when they ask me. I don't want to just respond "This is what I did and it worked for me."

I am going to learn SO much!! Can't wait!!

Future 5k's

2007-06-19T19:40:00.000-07:00

Ever since I got back from Texas I've been a bit discouraged with going to the gym. I've gone of course to the gym since I got back, but I don't have that same drive as before I went to Texas. So I was talking with my friend, and I've got a couple of new goals to get me going again. I am planning on running 4 5k's before this year is up. Then the plan is for next year to start looking at running a 10k. My ultimate goal is in 2-3 years to participate in a triathlon. All the training and hard work that will go into accomplishing those goals will also get me to my weight loss goals, but I just really need a goal in mind because the tendency is to get unmotivated. So my first 5k will be July 22nd. As soon as I am done posting, I am going to register. I will keep you all posted :)

Vacation!

2007-06-12T21:20:00.000-07:00

Sorry for no posts! I have been out of town the last week and didn't have any way of posting on my blog. Anyway, I ended up going to texas to visit a friend of mine there, and I went to this gym called Lifetime gyms. I have never been to something as gigantic as that gym! They even had a small water park in their gym. This place was absolutely amazing!! I wish they had those here, but alas, I still like LA fitness. :)

Size 10!!!!

2007-06-01T22:13:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited! I went to Old Navy today to try on their size 10, and it fit fine. I don't know if it's the style or what, but it actually fit okay. A little snug in the waist, but everywhere else fit great. So I had to buy them! I haven't fit into a size 10 since only God knows when. I'm so excited!!!

Bleh Sick

2007-05-30T11:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I wasn't feeling all that great, and this morning my throat was horrible sore and I was completely drained. So I didn't go to work today and didn't go to the gym either :( I'm hoping by taking today off I can recover quicker than just going into work and getting worse.

Amazing Arms

2007-05-28T21:00:00.000-07:00

I'm going to start having this problem pretty soon! hahaha!

Goal Update Part 2

2007-05-27T13:44:00.000-07:00

I've done really well in eating these past couple of weeks, and I tried on the size 10 last week again to see how far I was away from getting into them. Well they are still pretty tight, but looser than last time I tried them on, but I don't know if I am going to actually be in that size before I go on my trip. Although, I am working very very hard to get there!

Good kind of Leg Pain

2007-05-23T19:07:00.000-07:00

So I've been bugging my friend to go to the gym with me to show me how to do a real leg workout. Finally, our schedules matched today, and he was able to go with me and show me how to do a leg workout...........

HOLY CRAP!!! My legs are about to fall off (yes yes, keep laughing Luis). Anyway, I was actually looking forward to the workout because I've never done squats or lunges before in my entire life, and I wanted someone to show me how to do it so that I didn't hurt myself. Anyway, I am going to be in some serious soreness/pain tomorrow and probably for a couple of days lol! Here is what I did today...

Squats using Smith Machine
1x12, 1x8, 1x6
Lunges using Smith Machine
1x12, 1x10, 1x8
Stiffed Leg Deadlifts
3x10's
Leg Press
2x8, 1x10

Why I work out?

2007-05-18T17:05:00.000-07:00

Well that question might be completely obvious to some, and a completely reasonable question to others. I wanted to write a little bit about the weight problem that's followed me almost my entire life. I remember distinctly being embarrassed of how I looked in 1st grade. I am now 25, and I have even more memories of people saying rude things to me for being overweight as a kid. Needless to say those are not fond memories, but I work out now to prove to myself that being overweight doesn't have to be permanent if I am willing to put in the hard work and get to where I want to go. I am going to hit my fitness goals and nobody can take that way from me except myself. I just want to encourage those who are or in a similar situation to myself where they've been this way their entire lives, but I just want to tell you that you can change if you become discipline and stick with it. You owe it to yourself to do it.

Goal Update

2007-05-17T19:36:00.001-07:00

I have been doing a wonderful job at eating perfectly lately, and I started really seeing the difference. I'm going to try to get a picture of me this weekend and post it and then get another picture of me in 3 weeks when I get to my goal so you can see the difference. I can't believe how close I am to the size 10 pants. I'm going to get ripped and tiny, and I hope you can watch me do it!! :)

Fitness Supplements

2007-05-17T19:32:00.000-07:00

My friend sells fitness supplements as a side business, and I just wanted to highlight his page if you are interested in getting supplements for your fitness journey. I recently purchased some protein from him, and if you order, the shipment is fast and quick and you get the free shaker cup which I just got mine last Friday and it mixes the protein wonderfully (I was used to using a spoon and that didn't work very well lol) Anyway, the webapge is GetYoked.com for anyone interested :)

4 Week Goal

2007-05-14T18:30:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I am flying out to see my best friend in 4 weeks, and I have a goal of getting down to a size 10. I can't even remember when I was a size 10 last. So today I went to Old Navy to try on the size 10 and to just see how far away I am from fitting comfortable into a size 10. And I could actually fit into the jeans and button them up. Of course, they were super tight on me but I could still fit into them! Anyway, I would really like to fit into the size 10 jeans by the time I go see my friend. My friend hasn't seen me since I started on my weight loss adventure so I am hoping to be as far along as possible before I see her.

Also, I've started to boost my protein in take and I am lifting heavier weights and I started taking vitamins. I'm going all the way with this stuff and I am very excited. I was also very excited today when I was able to curl with one arm, 6 reps with the 20 lb. I've never been able to do that before, and I was pushing to get at least 6 and I did!

Beginner Workouts

2007-05-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

I wanted to elaborate on my previous post a little more since I have more time today than when I posted last time. The workouts that I've shown are for beginners in regards to the workout sets and repetitions. Anyone can take the workouts and change up the sets and reps, and honestly, you can make it fit you at whatever stage you may be at in your fitness journey. I am hoping to actually get pictures of how to do each workout, but unless you go with someone who knows how to do the different workouts, it is a little bit hard to explain in writing.

The one thing that I want to say, that is if you keep up exercising and eating right, you will see the results that you want. But remember remember, eating right is a HUGE part of your gains. I was really inspired by this month's Fitness RX magazine's success story. The lady puts it the best when she says something along the lines of "I work very hard to get to where I am at, but there are lots of saboteurs who say 'oh just one small piece of cake or one cookie won't hurt'" Don't be fooled! You have to change your way of thinking and say to yourself and to tell that person that "cookies and cakes do not fit your fitness goals" and then let them figure out the rest :)

So Much to Say & Not Enough Time

2007-05-09T22:08:00.000-07:00

I've been doing amazing the last couple of weeks! I've gone to the gym everyday in the morning and done a good workout, and I'm not sick, and I'm not injured lol... Well, I am helping out a few friends who I used to work with in getting them started on their own weightloss goals, and so I made up a workout schedule for them as beginners. I really liked what I came up with, and I believe that anyone in good health but overweight, who goes through these workouts will see progress in their weightloss goals (Remember!! Consistency and eating well is key!), but I hope this helps people out there.

Gym = Awesome

2007-05-06T09:45:00.000-07:00

So I am once again into the swing of things with the gym and eating. I can tell such a huge difference in how I feel when I've gone to the gym versus when I haven't been going. I feel so much better about myself and pretty much everything else too. I really truly miss the gym when I haven't been going. For those people who don't go to the gym that might sound ridiculous "missing the gym" but it is really true. Once you get onto your own fitness journey, you will understand. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication, but in the end it pays off! Trust me on this one :)

Doing good :)

2007-04-15T15:52:00.000-07:00

I've been doing really good these past 2 weeks with the gym. I was still feeling sick last week so I've taken a few days off, but I've been doing some ab work as much as I can while I've taken off. The gym can be so addicting at times especially when I feel that I am making progress again. I've got another 2 weeks before I will weight myself again, and I'm hoping to be down at least 8 pounds. I can tell that my clothes are getting a bit loser on me now, and I know if I just keep everything up I will make progress :)

Exercise and Eating Right Actually Works!! Amazing!

2007-04-07T08:37:00.000-07:00

There are a couple of girls at my old work who are starting their own weight loss adventure, and they are exactly at the same point I was a year and 1/2 ago. It's amazing to stop and look back at what attitudes and concerns I had when I started my fitness journey back then, and it is exactly the same as their's today. But I wanted to leave this encouragement to those who don't know me.

A year and 1/2 ago, I had never set foot into a gym in my entire life. Needless to say I knew absolutely nothing about weightlifting, machines, or anything to do with the gym lol. When I started I was quite intimidated by the people in the free weight room. And it was usually depressing to go to the gym anyway because most of the people there are already fit and skinny. But no matter what, I kept up going and my friend helped me out on what I should work and what I should do. And now 58 pounds lighter, it actually does work! You will be surprised and delighted at the results if you just keep it up exercising and eating right. Anyone can do it if I can!

Gym and maybe sickness?

2007-04-05T15:59:00.000-07:00

I've gone to the gym every day but today because of my work schedule so I am going to let this be my rest day. My husband, Chris, has had a cold for the last week or so, and I think that I might be catching it :( because I have a sore throat today. I'm hoping that the reason for the sore throat is the lack of sleep the last 2 days so I am going to get to bed early tonight and I hope that the sore throat is gone in the morning so that I can once again go to the gym.

Actually, tomorrow I am meeting up with a friend of mine who I used to work with and we are going to do a leg workout. It should be fun although I really enjoy working my arms when I go to the gym with someone new, but I did arms on Monday so that is right out. Honestly, I am quite sore today and probably the rest of the week as my body adjusts to the weight lifting again, but I'm sure I will get over that soon enough.

Back in Action

2007-04-02T20:30:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm back in the gym action. 2 girls I used to work with are now also going to the gym. Tomorrow will be the first day that I will see them in the gym so hopefully I can help them out or maybe they could give me pointers. I suppose we will see, but I'm excited to see some girls in the gym that I know. This Thursday my friend is going to go through a leg workout with me to show me squats and what not because I've never done them before and I don't want to injury myself.

Thinking about injuries, my right calf is still a little messed up. I'm going to have to take it easy for this month so that I can get back into running more miles without injuring myself again. I'm still easing back into the gym so for now it will be high reps and low weights with alternating between treadmill, elliptical, and the bike. I'm going to start working my abs a lot more. I was reading online the other day that some celebrities do 700+ crunches a day! That is pretty crazy (I think) but it is definately worth their effort. So I've decided to up my ab workout each day to try to get closer to my goal... That's it for now, until next time :)

Sorry for no posts!!!

2007-03-24T20:05:00.000-07:00

Sorry again for no posts!! As you can already guess, I haven't been very consistent with the gym the last 2 weeks. I am back at it again though, and I haven't either gained or lost any more and am still down a total of 58 pounds. I've been going straight for the last couple of days and it feels sooooooooooooooooooooooooo wonderful to get back in the gym. Life just gets so busy sometimes... But anyway, I've kept up well my eating and everything which is why I haven't gained, but I'm going to start being consistent again with the gym which will push me further towards my goal of -100 pounds... only 42 more pounds to go!

Progression

2007-03-06T19:18:00.000-08:00

Well I have actually been hitting the gym regularly now! Finally, back into the swing of things. Anyway, I just wanted to post this progression picture that shows you where I came from and where I am. I don't have a current picture yet, but the last picture on the right was taken at Christmas time while the other ones were from before I started working out.

I've gone to the gym!!!

2007-03-01T20:25:00.000-08:00

Well, I've gone to the gym all week! It feels great going back to the gym! Although running has been a bit more difficult since I'm starting to get back into it again. This week I am only running 1 mile at a slower pace just so I don't injury myself since it's been a little while since I ran last. I keep looking down at how far I go every few seconds hoping that I've made it to the mile already lol... but nonetheless, it's been good to get back :)

Slacking

2007-02-26T20:02:00.000-08:00

Consistency is the key in my weight lose adventure, and that is what has been lacking with me right now. I've just got to get motivated and get my lazy butt into the gym. Sometimes it's just so nice to sleep in a few more minutes, but I know I know it's SO worth going to the gym. I just have to try to convince myself each morning lol...

My biggest hindrance in getting to the gym = me...

Snow Tubing

2007-02-25T16:20:00.000-08:00

Well, we were going to try snowboarding again, but we decided it would be a lot more fun to go snow tubing instead... here are some pictures :)

Saturday Fun

2007-02-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

My husband and I made a new goal this year and that was to have some sort of outdoor activity on Saturday's. Yesterday we ended up going to Torrey Pines again, and we walked up the road to get to the top like we had done before, but this time I was not dieing when we finally reached the top lol... I remember when we went last I was so tired from just walking up the hill to get to the top, but this time that was not the case! I wasn't even out of breath :) It's amazing what happens when you exercise regularly.. Here are some pictures from our day yesterday!

Status Report

2007-02-16T19:05:00.000-08:00

Okay, so after 3 weeks of being sick and injured, I still managed to lose 1.5 pounds! At least I lost something and didn't gain anymore! I was able to make it to the gym only once this week. I am going to work on going all this weekend and all of next week. I'm trying to work out my schedule for the coming weeks, and I just haven't had a chance to figure it all out quite yet. As soon as I get myself organized again, I will start going everyday to the gym again and be back on track to my goal :)

Monday Gym

2007-02-09T21:45:00.000-08:00

OK, well I am finally mostly healed from snowboarding and I am no longer sick!! So, come this Monday I am back to the gym! I am very much excited to get back into the swing of things as it has been way TOO long since I was there last due to sickness and injury. I'm sure I will be sore lol

Snowboarding

2007-02-06T18:29:00.000-08:00

So my husband and mine active weekend this past weekend was to go up to Big Bear and snowboard. Well, I have never been to the snow in my entire life so we thought it was a good idea if I got a lesson on how to snowboard. WELL, that was all well and good in the beginning, but by the end of the 2 hour lesson I was (still am) in a lot of pain from the constant falling. Now I hear it takes about 3 days before you catch on to how to snowboard, but BOY is it painful.

Anyway, because of my little snowboarding adventure, my shoulder, knees, arms, legs and pretty much every part of my body hurts (not sore just pain), but especially my left shoulder. I am slightly better today than I was yesterday, but I really can't get back into the gym until my body heals from my snowboarding attempt.

Rainy Days = Lazy Days

2007-01-31T20:39:00.000-08:00

So, it has been raining and cold the last couple of days. Now I realize that is of course not a good excuse, but I am using it as one for not going to the gym the past couple of days.... it has just been too nice and warm in my bed in the morning to move!! lol... I'm going to go tomorrow morning, and get back on track... I promise...

I also have a goal of -5 pounds by February 16 so I am going to get back to the gym and start again hard...

Future Me

2007-01-27T09:16:00.000-08:00

So my friend from work has been helping me achieve my weight loss and fitness goals, told me awhile ago that I should find a picture of someone who I would like to model myself after. Well, the first girl I picked was some crazy fitness Olympian, and so my idea was shot down pretty early lol! But anyway, I couldn't find anyone who was what I wanted to look like, but I did find 2 different pictures out of some fitness magazines that I'd like to look like. Here they are:

I want to have this kind of lower body built. The abs are pretty crazy, but I think in the long term it is quite possible:

I'd like this kind of arm definition:

I realize of course that getting anywhere near these girls is going to be like 3 years or so away from now. I need to focus on losing the weight for now, but I wanted to have these posted as a reminder for myself as well as to have a tangible goal in view.

New Training

2007-01-25T18:36:00.000-08:00

Well, I've been eating good for the last couple of weeks, but I haven't been consistent with going to the gym this past week. Starting Monday I am going to start fresh again going every day and getting back into the routine. I've got 42 more pounds to go, and I'm hoping to hit that by this summer! I will keep you posted on how it goes :)

-58 LBS...

2007-01-20T21:13:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm finally over being sick, but I had a project due at work this past Friday so I wasn't able to make it to the gym for a couple of days. But, I still managed to lose 3 more pounds in the last 2 weeks which puts me at a total loss of 58!! I am finally under 190 pounds!!

Dreaded Lurgi Strikes San Diego

2007-01-13T09:38:00.000-08:00

Well, I do suppose that if I had taken up a brass instrument then maybe I would've gotten better sooner, but alas, I have been sick for this entire week!! I was unable to go to the gym at all this week due to feeling terrible, but I am starting to feel much better now. If all is well tomorrow, I am going to go to the gym. I'm going to have to take it easy this week at the gym so that I don't get a relapse of sickness. But after next week, my friend is going to start a circuit training schedule for me to do. I'm not entirely sure what it all entails, but I suppose I will find out soon!

Bicycle Ride

2007-01-06T18:58:00.000-08:00

My husband, Chris, and I have decided to spend every Saturday that we can doing some outdoor activity. This was my weekend to pick what we did, and so we rented cruiser bicycles on Coronado and bicycled around town. It was great fun, and I got to test out my new GPS tracker too! We ended up circling the island and getting somewhere near 9 miles of total cycling. Here are a few pictures of our day today :)

5k Pictures!

2007-01-06T18:54:00.000-08:00

I finally finished the disposable camera today and got the film developed from the 5k my husband and I ran in December. Enjoy!!

Here we are before the race:

GPS Distance Tracker

2006-12-31T15:38:00.000-08:00

I am so excited about this! I was given money for Christmas this year, and so I went on the hunt to look for a portable GPS distance tracker that I could wear like a watch. I looked everywhere, and I finally found one at Frye's (go figure right? haha). Anyway, it's an R300 Navman GPS specifically made for running. I just got it today, but I am planning on using it to go running outside during the weekdays and then I can know exactly how far I have run or will run. This way I can run in much more populated areas than at the lake and know exactly how far and how fast I've run :)

5k!!

2006-12-29T08:12:00.000-08:00

I ran the San Diego Baloon Parade 5k race yesterday! My time was 34 mins and 49 seconds which averages 11.1 minute miles. I was so excited because my goal was to make it under 35 minutes and I did! I have some pictures of the race that I need to get developed, and as soon as I do, I will post them on here :)

There were 1500+ people who ran yesterday in front of 100,000+ people on the sidelines. The run kicked off the baloon parade so we ran past all the spectators. It was a lot of fun. I think I'm going to run this one next year too :)

Calf Issues

2006-12-27T19:31:00.000-08:00

Well, my calf was still bothering me yesterday when I ran at an incline. I took today off from running, but I am still planning on running tomorrow. I'm going to see how I am doing in the morning, but I did get my husband to run it with me so that will be fun. I think I'm okay to run the race tomorrow because the course is rather flat which should be okay on my calf, and if worse comes to worse, I can walk the 5k since it is a run/walk anyway. My goal is to run it all though so we will see what happens. I will keep you posted...

Christmas @ Coronado

2006-12-26T19:57:00.000-08:00

My husband and I love going to Coronado, and one of our Christmas traditions has been going there on Christmas morning. Well it was absolutely beautiful there this year, and I just wanted to post some pictures!

Christmas Morning Run

2006-12-25T09:09:00.000-08:00

My cousin is in town, and we went for a super nice run this morning (Christmas) outside down by a golf course by my parent's house. We estimated that it was about 1.5 miles that we did this morning, but it was wonderful because it was outside AND my calf is not hurting :)))) Which means I should hopefully be able to run my 5k on thursday!!!

Blog Layout

2006-12-23T23:12:00.000-08:00

I got suckered yesterday into "updating" my blog so now it looks a bit strange. I will work on getting it looking better sometime tomorrow, but I wanted to let you know why it looked weird lol

Status Report

2006-12-22T19:19:00.000-08:00

Well, my calves are doing better today. They don't hurt anymore, but when I do calf raises I can feel them stretch a bit more than typical. I have not run all week in order to let them recover. I am taking tomorrow off from the gym since I did legs today, but come Sunday, I am going to jog a slow 1.5 miles flat and see how my calves feel. If they are doing alright, I'm going to keep up-ing my miles each day next week so I can be ready to run the 5k by Thursday. I hope that I am up for it!!

On a different note, I was at the gym today, and some random weird guy just started talking to me while I was resting between leg extension sets. It was the one time that I did not have my ipod shuffle with me... It was rather disturbing because I didn't even know this guy and he just started talking to me randomly about how he coaches girl's track and how girls can be emotion??? What the heck?? He talked to me for like 5 minutes while I was staring at him trying to figure out why on earth he was saying anything to me... I've seen this guy at the gym before too so it was really weird. Never will I forget my shuffle and I will remain far away from that guy if I see him lol

So Sad....

2006-12-18T19:02:00.000-08:00

So, I need to let both my calves recover right now. I was so sad today when I had to do the elliptical machine.... I was pouting the whole way lol... I just want to go run... I think I'm addicted to running. Anyway, I'm going to keep on the elliptical for at least a couple of days if not the rest of the week to try to let my calves heal. I've got my race in 2 weeks so I need to let them recover otherwise I may not be able to run it :(

Calf Injury

2006-12-16T08:43:00.000-08:00

So I injured my right calf on Wednesday running. I took Thursday and Friday off from the gym to give my calf some time to recover. This morning I went to the gym and I walked 1 lap at 3.7 mph and I was feeling pretty good so I ended up running 2.85 miles at 4.8 mph all flat, and my calf is doing alright. I'm going to be running flat for a couple of days and doing some calf raises to get my calf muscle strengthened. I hope it heals 100% by the 28th!

Christmas Party

2006-12-12T19:21:00.000-08:00

Well, I've been working pretty good at keeping the diet and workout plan together. It's the weekends that kill me though. This past weekend was my work's Christmas Party and I wanted to post some pictures of me at Christmas party 2005 and this year Christmas Party. I think it's a good indication of where I am going :) Enjoy! Can't wait until next year's Christmas party :)

9 Minutes 40 Seconds!

2006-12-07T19:53:00.001-08:00

For the first time ever, I ran 1 mile in 9 minutes and 40 seconds! Almost died!! but I did it :)

New Schedule

2006-12-05T20:01:00.000-08:00

So I've come up with a new schedule with Luis' help... and so here it is!

Sunday: Run 3 miles at the Lake
Monday, Wednesday, Friday: Morning- Run 2-3 miles
Afternoon- Weights, Run a fast mile, Climb as many stairs in 5
minutes
Tuesday, Thursday: Morning only- Weights, Run 2-3 miles
Saturday: Rest Day

And for my new eating schedule:

5:00 am - Protein Shake or Breakfast Bar
8:00 am - Protein Bar
11:00 am: M,W,F- Yogurt
T,TH - Sandwhich & Apple
3:00 pm - MWF- Sandwhich & Apple
T,TH- Yogurt
6:00 pm- Small Dinner

I've been able to stick to the meal plan pretty good, but going to the gym twice a day is going to proof tough. But I am going to stick with it so that I can hit my goal of weighing somewhere around 145 pounds by summer.

I did it!

2006-12-02T08:10:00.000-08:00

I went to the miramar lake and ran 3 miles without stopping, and I'm feeling alright today! It was my first time to run outside in years and it felt wonderful, and the scenario is gorgeous with the sun setting over the lake. Now I just have to get faster for my 5k at the end of this month. Although, I need to be a little careful and let my legs recover because running outside is harder on my knees than on the treadmill.

Albertson's Fruit on the Bottom Yogurt

2006-11-29T21:29:00.000-08:00

Awhile back I had posted about not liking yogurt. So I finally got the courage to try different brands of yogurt because I had only had the yoplait brand. So I tried all of the following:

Blueberry Yoplait Yogurt
Chocolate Whips Yoplait Yogurt
Lucern Plain Yogurt
Lucern Vanilla Yogurt
Ralph's Fruit on the Bottom Blueberry Yogurt
Albertson's Fruit on the Bottom Blueberry Yogurt
Albertson's Vanilla Yogurt

Now, I very much disliked all of the above except for the Albertson's Fruit on the Bottom Yogurt. All the others have a disgusting sour flavor to them which I can't stand (although I'm sure you dissagree with me on this but oh well). Even the Albertson's Vanilla Yogurt is not good either. I don't know what it is that they put in the Albertson's Fruit on the bottom, but it is hella good... haha!

The aMazing Title

2006-11-29T20:49:00.000-08:00

I've been able to get into the gym all week! It's been wonderful being able to go! I started off by just running 1 mile on Monday. Tuesday I worked biceps and ran 1.5 miles, and today I worked triceps and ran 2.0 miles. I am going to run 2.5 miles tomorrow, and I hope to run 3.0 miles on Friday outside at the Miramar Lake. I heard from a friend that it is a nice run and that it has mile markers. I'm somewhat uncertain if I will be able to be ready to run my 5k since it is only a few more weeks away, but I'm going to work hard for it.

Well, I ended up gaining that 4.5 pounds that I had lost, so I am back at an even 50 pounds again, but I have worked out a new diet plan that I will detail out below that I am going to stick to. I hope to get back those pounds by the end of 2 weeks from this past Monday. Here is my new diet plan:

5 am (if I actually wake up on time haha) - Protein Shake or Breakfast Bar
8 am - Protein Bar
11 am - Yogurt (Fruit on the Bottom Yogurt Rocks!!! Don't even diss it Luis...)
2 pm - Sandwich & Apple
6-7 pm - Small Dinner

Surviving the Holidays

2006-11-26T13:59:00.000-08:00

Well, to the say the least, I've been a little unmotivated due to the holidays. We went up to Northern California for Thanksgiving to my mother-in-law's home. It was a nice get away for both of us, but bad on food and no gym since we were out of town. This week I am planning on getting together with my friend to talk about getting back into the gym and getting motivated again. I've been doing quite well marinating my current weight, but I don't want to just maintain... I want to lose more. So I'm going to get back in to the gym and get motivate once again!

Dress Shopping

2006-11-19T09:03:00.000-08:00

The company I work for has a formal Christmas party every year, and like always, they are having one this year on December 9th. Because of this, I need to get a formal dress. I went to David's Bridal yesterday to look around to see what was out there, and I tried a couple of dresses on. Now, My wedding dress that I wore was a size 22 from David's Bridal and that was 3 years ago... When I tried on dresses yesterday, I could fit into the size 14 but it was a little to snug so I went with the size 16! I know that I'm still far away from my goal, but that was encouraging for me...

Training

2006-11-15T19:33:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm trying to get back into the swing of things as I was unable to go to the gym for the last month due to my work. My work now has slowed thanks to the holiday season so now I'm back in action once again! I went to the gym yesterday evening, and I ran 1.5 miles at 1% incline and at 5.0 mph. I realized that it's going to take a lot to do well at this 5k as I was out for awhile. Anyway, the gym was super busy yesterday. I have never seen the gym that busy before, and I don't know if everyone has renewed their memberships or something. But it is always encouraging to see people working on their fitness especially if they follow through with it. Well I'll keep you posted on everything as it happens :) Thanks for the encouragement!!

December 5k Run

2006-11-08T19:50:00.000-08:00

So I've Decided to run the 5k run at the San Diego Balloon Parade this December 28th. I'm going to start training for it hardcore tomorrow, and my husband, Chris, is going to run it with. I can't wait!

GYM

2006-11-04T11:41:00.000-08:00

I finally went to the gym!!! Oh boy!! Here was my workout after much debate:

1 mile run @ 1% incline
3 laps @ 4.5 mph
1 lap @ 5.0 mph

20 Stairs on the actual stairmaster thing @ level 5

Leg Curls
1x15 @ 30 pounds
1x13 @ 35 pounds
1x10 @ 40 pounds

Leg Extensions
1x15 @ 30 pounds
1x11 @ 35 pounds
1x9 @ 40 pounds

My goal was to make 15 pounds but to fail on the last two sets. Anyway, it felt really good to be in the gym. Going to the gym just helps out in my outlook and perspective for the day :)

Good Morning!

2006-11-04T10:05:00.000-08:00

Well, I am finally making my way to the gym this morning!! I still haven't decided what I am going to do today, but I'm thinking arms or legs today. I will have a detailed list of what I did today when I get back from the gym.

I need to get back on track with my eating also. I know this past week I ate really bad... lots of coffee, fast food, and etc. But not this coming week. Anyway, thanks for everyone's encouragement to me this past year. I've really needed it.

Torrey PInes Afternoon Hike

2006-10-29T19:11:00.000-08:00

Well my husband and I decided to spend some quality time with each other by going hiking. Neither one of us had been the to the Torrey Pines Reserve before, and we had both heard that it was beautiful so we decided to go. It was so much fun walking around and enjoying the beautiful San Diego weather. Here are some photos from our day :) Enjoy!

Me sitting on a Bench on one of the Trails:

The sun over the ocean was breathtaking:

Check out the Gliders catching air currents:

Here is the view from the Highest Point:

Back in Action

2006-10-29T09:12:00.000-08:00

I finally went back to the gym today! After about a 2 week lapse, I was able to get into the gym since I wasn't going into work today. I have a feeling that I won't be able to go back into the gym until next weekend, but being able to go at all is a huge stress reliever for me.

Since I hadn't been to the gym in 2 weeks, I took it easy today and only did cardio. I ran 1 mile @ 1% incline @ 4.5 mph, 20 stairs, and abs. I was thinking that I would maybe have a legs day today, but my husband and I are going to go out hiking this afternoon so I didn't want to be miserable with sore legs so I decided only to do cardio. Anyway, we are going to take pictures of our hike today, and I will post about that when we get back :)

I weighed myself today to see where I was because I have been out for awhile, but I am still at 54.5 pounds of weight loss. I've been living off of coffee for the last couple of weeks trying to get my projects done at work, but I am going to try my hardest to stop that habit this week as it does nothing for my goals.

Work

2006-10-22T19:50:00.000-07:00

Sorry for no posts! My home computer kicked the bucket and I haven't had a chance to get it fixed. I'm actually using my parents computer to post this:

Well, I'm down another 4.5 pounds so that puts me at total loss of 54.5 pounds. That being said, I haven't been able to get into the gym since last weekend because of my work schedule. So much work to do! I really hope to get back into the gym this week, but I think I won't be able to go for another 1-2 weeks because I have a bunch of projects that I need to get done in the next couple of weeks.

Needless to say working 60+ hours a week at work puts a damper on being able to go to the gym. But as long as I continue to eat right I will still be able to make my gains.

Progress

2006-10-11T20:29:00.000-07:00

As I progress through achieving my weight loss goals, I have gotten lots of comments from different people wondering if I'm losing to much weight or if I even eat. So I wanted to give everyone a refresher on where/when I started this journey and where I have come:

If you read my "The Beginning" blog archived in August, you will notice that I have lost the 50 pounds over the last 10 months by eating healthy and exercising. That is really the only good and safe way to lose weight. Also for my height and body type, I should ideally weigh somewhere around 130-140 pounds. When I started my weight loss journey, I was at 246 pounds therefore me wanting lose 100 pounds is rather reasonable and would put me where I should've been all along (so only 50 more to go! lol).

It annoys me that this blog won't automatically let you see my archived posts (but I suppose that's why they archive it) so every now and then I will put reminders like this up so that you and I can remember where I've come and where I am planning on going.

Sick Again

2006-10-09T18:54:00.000-07:00

Sorry for no posts! I have been battling a cold for the last week. I have really bad congestion in my lungs and throat and I've been coughing like crazy so needless to say I haven't been to the gym although I've been sticking to the more aggressive eating plan. I've been taking some decongestant and drinking hot tea which is quite unusual for me as I don't like tea, but I think it has been helping. If I'm not better by Wednesday then I plan to go to the doctor, but I'm hoping to be over this soon and get back into the gym as soon as possible! Oh How I miss the gym!!

So many posts, and so little responses lol

2006-10-02T20:55:00.000-07:00

Well, I didn't meet my goal of 11 pounds although I wasn't too far off. I lost a total of 6 pounds since my last weigh day, and I think I attribute it mostly to the last couple of weeks when I wasn't able to get into the gym very often. Anyway, I was a little bummed to say the least, but all and all, I have a lost an even 50 pounds since I started back in January. I realize that 50 pounds is an accomplishment as I am now officially half way to my goal of losing 100 pounds, but it still doesn't feel like I've accomplished very much.

Anyway, my friend helped me put together a much more aggressive dieting plan for this coming month, and I plan to make up the 5 pounds that I didn't get today by November 2nd. So I've got 4 more weeks to make up the difference of my original goal for today.

Collage 2

2006-10-01T20:22:00.000-07:00

Here are some more pictures of where I was and where I am going :)

Sunday Cardio

2006-10-01T20:19:00.000-07:00

I went to the gym this evening and I did the following:

1 mile @ 1% incline @ 5 mph
40 stairs

Wrist Curls Superset with Reverse Wrist Curls
2x15 with 10 pounds for wrist curls & 5 pounds for reverse wrist curls

30 crunches to front
20 Medicine Ball Work
20 crunches to front

It was a shorter workout so that I could get back home early enough to prepare for work tomorrow.

Music Play List

2006-10-01T17:43:00.000-07:00

I bought a I-pod shuffle a couple of months ago, and it makes a world of difference when you are in the gym and can go into your own little world listening to your music. I would recommend to anyone that they get some sort of music device that they can bring to the gym. My shuffle with the arm band cost me $100 bucks, but it is definately worth it. My friend kept telling me how wonderful it was to have it at the gym. I of course didn't really believe him until I got my own, and now I would definately have to agree. Anyway, I wanted to post the music that I listen to that helps me get through my workout faster and more pumped than when I didn't have my shuffle:

(These are in no particular order, as my shuffle automatically shuffles the songs anyway)

Guitar Date by The 5,6,7,8's
Dream Boy by The 5,6,7,8's
Alcohol by Barenaked Ladies
Shadow Stabbing by Cake
Nugget by Cake
You Turn the Screws by Cake
Zombie by The Cranberries
Soul Meets Body by Death Cab for Cutie
Goodbye Earl by Dixie Chicks
Some Days You Gotta Dance by Dixie Chicks
In My Head by The Echoing Green
Showerhead by Eve 6
Death Valley Queen by Flogging Molly
Jacqueline by Franz Ferdinand
The Dark of the Matinee by Franz Ferdinand
This Fire by Franz Ferdinand
Killing Me Softly by Funny G.
Last Living Souls by Gorillaz
Running Out of Time by Hot Hot Heat
Soldier in a Box by Hot Hot Heat
If You Don't, Don't by Jimmy Eat World
Your Man by Josh Turner
How Forever Feels by Kenny Chesney
Mr. Brightside by The Killers
3 AM by Matchbox Twenty
The World At Large by Modest Mouse
Staring At the Sun by The Offspring
Get Over It by OK Go
The Cup of Life by Ricky Martin
Ojos Asi by Shakira
Baby Girl by Sugerland
Hypnotize by Systam of a Down
On a Night Like This by Trick Pony
Beverly Hills by Weezer
You're Pretty Good Looking by The White Stripes
Apple Blossom by The White Stripes
Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes
The Hardest Button to Button by The White Stripes
Hypnotize by The White Stripes
Blue Orchid by The White Stripes
The Denial Twist by The White Stripes
Hotel Yorba by The White Stripes
Woman by Wolfmother
Leave the Pieces by the Wreckers

Tomorrow is the Day!

2006-10-01T17:40:00.000-07:00

Well, I am a little concerned that I won't make my target of -11 pounds by tomorrow, but at least, if I am down anything it is better than going back up if you know what I mean. I'm not sure if I am going to make my target date as I haven't been able to be consistent with going to the gym everyday because of my work schedule. Hopefully this week I can get back on track. I am about to head off to the gym right now, and I am only going to do cardio today. I will post my actual workout when I get back. Anyway, until then :)

GYM = HAPPY

2006-09-27T20:55:00.001-07:00

Oh it felt so incredibly good to get into the gym today! After a long stressful half week of work, I finally got in to the gym this evening. I felt like I could have run for miles. For me, the gym really helps me feel better not just about myself but everything else.

Anyway, here was my fabulous workout that I just got back from:

Today was Chest/Shoulders & Cardio

Seated DumbBell Press
2x15 w/ 10 pounds
1x7 w/ 15 pounds and finished w/ 1x8 w/ 10 pounds

Seated Machine Press
3x15 w/ 50 pounds

Machine Flyes
3x15 w/ 30 pounds

Inclined DumbBell Press
3x15 w/ 10 pounds

2 Miles @ 1% incline as follows:
1 mile @ 4.5 mph
1/2 mile @ 5.0 mph
1/4 mile @ 5.5 mph
1/2 lap @ 6.0 mph
1/4 lap @ 6.5 mph
1/4 lap @ 7.0 mph

I was feeling SO good running today... I felt light as a feather running... oh it was wonderful lol

Weekly Schedule

2006-09-25T19:51:00.000-07:00

I have been asked recently by different people what my schedule is like for the gym each week. So I decided that I would detail it out for anyone interested. (Note: this is my schedule when I have time to go to the gym and my work isn't crazy):

Monday:
Arms & Cardio
Tuesday:
Back & Cardio
Wednesday:
Legs & Cardio
Thursday:
Chest/Shoulders & Cardio
Friday/Saturday:
All Cardio
Sunday:
Rest Days = light cardio workout

This way I can target one muscle group each day and then I give them a full week before working them again. Some weeks I mix the order around a bit depending on what I feel like working out, but that is pretty much the routine. The different workouts that I post throughout the blog are the different routines that I go through on each of those days.

Hectic Life

2006-09-25T19:47:00.000-07:00

I went in today to the gym and I did a short workout as follows:

Seated DumbBell Curls:
1x15 with 10 pounds
2x15 with 15 pounds
Superset with 1 Arm Extensions:
2x15 w/ 5 pounds
1x15 w/ 10 pounds

Preacher Curl Machine:
3x15 w/ 30 pounds

Reverse Preacher Curl Machine:
3x15 w/ 40 pounds

1 mile run @ 1% incline at 4.5 mph

I was running out of time today so this is all I had time for. Tomorrow I don't think that I will be able to make it to the gym either... busy busy schedule...

Update Update

2006-09-22T19:44:00.000-07:00

Sorry for no posts... I actually haven't been able to go to the gym since Monday and now it's Friday!! ACK, not so good for my goal day, but I'm going to hit the gym regularly starting tomorrow. Work has just been crazy and I started taking a class so I wasn't able to go this week. So leaving home at 5:30 am and then working until 6-6:30 pm then with class and traffic, I haven't been getting home until 9 pm and I've just come home and crashed. SO, this coming week I've got things figured out and I'm going to get back to the gym, but just to let you know...