We all Start SOMEWHERE!

 

Remember my story in the Mamas Blog about the lady at the gym that didnt recognize me because I had put on so much weight? That humbling moment when I was 19 years old still serves as motivation to keep going. I would rather start today because tomorrow I will be THAT much closer to my goal. And if I dont start today... then its easier to NOT start tomorrow. And then in 6 months I will have made little to NO improvements. 

 

I often see new faces at the gym now that its cold here. I dont know these peoples' stories, but I want to encourage them! I have been on every side of the weightloss struggle. Push through - you can do it too!

 

Did I mention I now teach workout classes? Yes, this Mama of two babies (both under 2 and a half years old) who just a few short months ago was the post-partum, babyweight-carrying newbie at the gym. But I kept at it. And now, I'm a resource for others and you, Mamas. I hope you will consider some the following techniques for increasing your own fitness levels and happiness with your beautiful body.

 

First: Get an appointment with your physician and ask questions, make sure you are healthy.

 

Second: Take Measurements! I measure myself every few months to see my progress. Since the last time (4 months ago) I have lost a total of 15.75 inches... not mention about 15-20 pounds of fat. Click Here to read more.

 

Third: Participate in intentional exercise: sign up for a class, do a workout at home, or go to the gym. Can you walk on your lunch break? Can you squeeze in a workout 2-3 days a week before the kids get up (like I do) or after they go to bed like Briana? Fitness is an ongoing relationship, a standing appointment that I have with my body and my health. It is a time that matters to the overall health of your family too, because where would they be without you Mama? Think of what happens in your household when you are sick. And...come on, who doesnt like to like what they see in the mirror? We all know the sayings, "If Mama ain't happy, Nobody's happy!" Gym time matters. Make it intentional.

 

Fourth: Set parameters that you WILL stick to for a specific period of time (for example: I WILL workout 3 times a week, I will go walking or jogging 4 times a week. I WILL NOT drink sugary beverages or drink alcohol..etc. FOR 60 days or whatever amount of time you can mentally stick too). Then track it on your calender. Put it where you can see it. Hold yourself accountable or if you can, get someone else to.

 

Fifth: Be Consistent. If this means getting a support person or workout buddy, do it. A small BUT consistent choice will have BIG results.

 

Sixth: Drink water, and lots of it! Click HERE to read about the importance of drinking water.

 

Seventh: What are you eating? Analyze your eating behavior. Where are your weak points? When do you veer off the path of healthy eating? Remember: You are what you eat....and what you eat, eats!

 

Eighth: Put your motivation in front of you often, remind yourself of your goals and WHY you want to lose the weight or acheive a lifelong fitness goal. Are you bold enough to take a picture of yourself in your underwear  or tight workout clothes and post it on your mirror or refrigerator? Seeing yourself for where you really are is good motivation to close that fridge door and really asses if you are hungry or eating because of an emotional need.

 

Ninth: Fail to Plan = plan to fail... a favorite Army slogan my husband used often in his unit. Think about this slogan in terms of what is in your kitchen. Work on meal planning and having healthy "ALIVE" non-processed food in your house.

 

Tenth: As little as 4 hours a week can make a big difference in your body composition. Click here to read about the 4 Hour Body Challenge.

 

 Remember, we lose ounces in the gym... but POUNDS in the KITCHEN!

 

Keep following the healthy MRL recipes and pantry guidelines and it wont be long before you notice changes in your health and your pants size Mama!!

 

Click on the fitness tab and read all of our fitness related posts!