I was really interested in chronicling my progress somewhere, but the idea of Facebook or a public blog didn't seem like the right fit. Hopefully this will hold me accountable.
Like a lot of folks, I've been reluctant to get a new lifestyle started, despite huge red flags to the contrary. Throughout my teens and 20s, I'd never had a major problem with my weight. I'd never crept above a size 6 in spite of eating and drinking whatever I wanted. Unfortunately, those days are over.
As a single 31-year-old, much of my lifestyle is the same as it's been through my 20s. I often start the day with a breakfast sandwich or bagel and end it with one cocktail too many. Think Amy Schumer. Over the past year, the weight has piled on fairly quickly as my metabolism slows down.
So, body...what you're telling me is that I need to exercise? And eat right? And watch the booze?
After a few unflattering photos surfaced, I'm finally ready to make a change. I'm sick of avoiding my reflection in the mirror after a shower. So I'm going all in, throwing it all to the wall and seeing what sticks.
For me this means:
Cutting WAY back on drinking. Like, zero alcohol during the week, and just a few drinks on the weekend, if any. I'm a few days into this already and I don't miss drinking each night. I feel more alert in the mornings and ready for the day. I felt a pang for a glass of wine to relax the second night, but I drank a seltzer and powered through.
Eating well. Not starving myself, but eating whole foods and making sure I never get so hungry I cave in for the junk. I'm part of a CSA, so I know I always have fresh veggies on hand. My goal is to use them all every week.
Sleep eight hours each night. This is already part of my routine and I have no plans to stop!
Cardio 4x a week. For me this means:
Gym Monday anytime
Gym Wed and Fri mornings before work.
Gym OR fun outdoor activity Saturday. This week it will be a 2 mile walk and swim with friends.
I'll be starting my first challenge this week. Wish me luck!