Progress

I have been going to my boot camp class for almost 3 months now. I genuinely like working out and look forward to this class everyday. I have not once skipped it in the 3 months I have been going. My class is Monday-Thursday, and Saturdays are also available. Whenever I'm in town, I go on Saturdays. Boot camp is intense. We burn about 500 calories in a 40 minute session. We also turn in food logs to keep accountable about what we eat during the week.

My first day of boot camp in January was hell. I couldn't believe how weak I felt. It was very discouraging. I was so sore that whole week. Now I realize I am in a constant state of sore, but it's a good sore, a healthy sore. Now, I am successfully completing all the exercises (even though they SUCK!), and my coach even gives me "modifications" as he calls it to make the workout more difficult. I am so happy with the strength I've achieved through my classes. I really feel great. I feel healthy.

When it started getting nice a few weeks ago, I thought I'd give running a go to see how far I needed to go to be in running shape. To my surprise, I ran two miles with ease and never felt better. Boot camp is truly a well-rounded workout. Since it's stayed nice, I've started working running into my routine. I've been able to run a mile before class (as a "warm up") and a mile after class (just because.) I must say, I am very proud of myself for pushing myself to run the extra miles on top of the workout. I thank my competitiveness for that drive. Having other athletes in the class who are just as competitive makes me push myself even harder.

It all sounds great, right? Well, there's just one thing. I haven't lost any weight. In fact, I have gained 2 pounds since beginning. "Muscle weighs more than fat!" is probably what you're all thinking. Yes, you're right. I'm not upset I haven't lost weight. My clothes fit better, I can physically see the change in my body. I feel good and I feel healthy. It's so much easier to stay on the healthy eating track when you are seeing change! It just took a little time.

Why are you telling us this? Three reasons.

1) I have been working out consistently forever, even through college. But, not as consistently as this. I really kicked it into high gear, and that's what it took to see change.
2) Even though I'm still the same weight, I can see and feel the change. I know lots of people who work out get frustrated because they don't lose weight right away. Don't focus on that scale! That was my biggest mistake. If you want a number, look at your body fat %.
3) I didn't see success until I changed my eating habits. I had to fully commit. I have myfitnesspal to thank for the change. Seriously. Use it. I'm not talking about going on a diet. Don't do that. Diets don't work. Look at the foods you are putting into your body.

I guess there is one more reason, but it's more of a personal reason. If I put it out there that I'm making a change, I will be more motivated to keep up. So here I am. Thanks for keeping me honest, people! Going to San Diego in May, Mexico in November, and getting married next June are also good motivators :).

Now that I have given you my "inspirational" story, here is the annoying part that you ladies can relate to. Kevin just finished up his busy season and started on his own healthy lifestyle this week as well. He's been running a couple miles each night and asking, "Is this healthy? Is this healthy?" when we go grocery shopping. How annoying is it that he has already lost 6 pounds since starting this week and I have gained 2 pounds since starting 3 months ago? Infuriating. Whatevs. I FEEL GOOD!

Thanks for letting me share that part of my life with you :)

(See other fitness posts here and here. The first is when I started boot camp in January and the second is a motivational workout post!)

This is my fitness coach, Pin, who has helped me stay motivated and reach my goals! This is a little taste of what our classes are like. But a 40 minute workout and indoors. For now. :)