Anyone who knows me knows that I'm a big girl. I've always struggled with my weight, ever since I was little. Mom and Dad used to tell me that I was big-boned, but I quickly realized that I was big-everything'ed. Don't get me wrong, I don't hate myself. In fact, I love myself. I think I'm funny, caring, a good friend, creative, and smart. I also think I am pretty. I mean, losing weight would help people focus more on my blue eyes and my blonde hair, but I've never thought that I was ugly. I do love myself. And that is why I am getting fit.
Even though I was super adorable, I've always had those chubby cheeks.
Just because you are chubby doesn't mean you can't be athletic. Growing up, I played soccer, softball, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and golf.
I've already told you that this blog isn't going to be about one specific thing, but I am going to keep you informed and up-to-date about this journey of mine and the things I learn along the way. About eight months ago, I got a personal trainer, and she quickly became one of my favorite people. She isn't one of those trainers that is scary and intimidating, though she really does push me. She always encourages me and tells me that I could do whatever exercise she has planned for me. When I first started with her, I could barely do 10 squats. Now, I thank the Lord every time I see squats in a workout because it's one of the easier things for me to do. Since starting with my trainer, I've lost about 20 pounds. Considering that it's been about eight months, I probably could have lost more weight, but I can tell that my body has changed. I am stronger, I fit into my clothes differently, and I generally feel better about myself and my body.
The FitBit has really helped me understand how active I really am in a day. The photo above shows two of my more impressive days since getting my FitBit.
Last week, my trainer moved out of state. She gave me options about how to proceed without her here, including virtual training sessions and other trainers that she thought I would like, but I have decided to do this by myself and for myself. I still want to do some virtual training with her, but I want to show myself once and for all that I can help myself and get my health under control. So I've planned my meals for this next week, and have told myself that I am going to both work out and hit my 10,000 step goal every day. I'm really looking forward to proving to myself that I can do it.
I recently realized how fun athletic clothes can be. I think I have four pairs of athletic shoes, and I also am loving some of my new athletic clothes from Fabletics.com.
Of course, I'm not alone in this journey. I have my family and friends who support me every day. My mom encourages me to walk with her, my dad encouraged me to plan our meals, and my boyfriend and I make goals together. I feel really good about my support system, and I know that when I'm feeling discouraged, they will be there to lift me up and show me that I can do it. I am so thankful to be so loved by them.
Hitting balls is honestly really good exercise. The repetitive motion really isolates the muscles, and your whole body gets moving.
My best friend and I have a standing work out date every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday morning that we try to keep. I found this workout regimen on Pinterest that is a different workout for every day of the week. They all have similar exercises in them, but every day has a different amount of jumping jacks, squats, and lunges. Then it adds in other exercises that you do every other day or once a week, like yoga poses or push-ups. My best friend and I try to make sure that we both do the exercises, even when we aren't exercising together. I love that she works out with me. We push each other when the other starts to hurt. And she just gets me. I really don't know what I would do without her. I found a quote that sums up what our relationship has turned into, even though we've been best friends since high school: "How can you not make a best friend out of a girl who has seen the sweat-soaked pelvis area of your gym pants, daily, and who still chooses to spend time with you?" This is how I feel about my best friend. (Also, side note, you should read Mindy Kaling's
Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me (And Other Concerns), where I found this quote. It's great.)
My best friend and I like to send each other pictures of funny exercise shirts on Pinterest, just to keep each other motivated and give ourselves something to laugh at.
As of today, there are 41 days until my 23rd birthday. I want to be as healthy as I can and celebrate my life in a healthy way this year. I want to go into the next year of my life feeling the best about myself that I've ever felt. I'm looking forward to challenging myself in both exercise and diet, and really exploring different ways to reach my goal.
I hope everyone has a good week and I look forward to keeping you updated in the future!
