Monday, June 27th...Awake and at the gym for the first workout of my day before my work day started. I am beyond excited to be involved with the DietBet challengers for the accountability and support each step of the way over the next month or so. I weighed in on Saturday but didn't really focus on cleaner eating until yesterday (Sunday). Even though I didn't have to weigh in until Sunday PM...I knew I needed to be held accountable regardless.
In addition, I joined a StepBet because lawd knows I need that accountability too. My StepBet quotas are reasonable at 10,757 on active days and 14,357 on stretch days. The last week has proven to be weak effort given the upper respiratory and sinus crud I've battled. However, today I am motivated by a little competition so that always heals the body faster (in my opinion).
I had no choice but to get up and get moving this morning so I took the 25 minutes at the Vandy Rec Center and made the best out of an elliptical workout with intervals followed by a 5-10 minute cool down on the dreadmill. I will be training with the devil (aka...Alyson) at 5:15pm tonight. I will likely have trouble brushing my teeth tomorrow after she kills my biceps/triceps and shoulders this eve.
The real challenge happens in the kitchen and on my plate. Keeping the portion sizes reasonable and not finding myself on a relentless binge as I raid the fridge and pantry during my weakest moments will be my toughest challenges as I travel down this road. I have considered finding a local OA meeting to get a better grip on the binge eating but I am hopeful that this accountability and push to lose 4% in 28 days will keep my self in check. I will start counting success today and keep track of my binge-free days along with the stats on weight loss, steps, and dedicated cardio with strength training. As you can see, I am connecting these dots so I can leverage strength rather than weakness in this journey of mine.
This next 2 weeks should be pretty straight forward as I am on break from grad school. I have plenty of time to meal prep and exercise. The bigger challenge comes when I am back to balancing school work with the work/life/family obligations. But...I can do this! I will do this! I will take these two weeks to invest in myself and delve into a few good fitness related books and blogs that I have uncovered recently.
My wellness journey has been packed with bumps in the road and a few stray turns. However, I am determined to make my 44th year on earth one for the history books. With my highest weight being about 260 pounds (back in October 2010) and my current weight sitting right at 207, I MUST DECREASE steadily! I am thankful to not be struggling with other chronic illnesses associated with obesity like diabetes and hypertension but I am feeling the brunt of my overeating not only in my joints but in my psychy. I am determined to feel better in my own skin as I find a new healthier normal.
Breakfast and lunch are behind me. I am feeling fantastic and energized! Time to get back to work...