How I did it: I prepared in advance.  I made copies of the workout logs, made sure I had access to a gym, had gym clothes, bought groceries, etc. 

After that, its a matter of just getting through each day.  I used the "free" day as a way to reward myself.  When I had an intense craving, I would tell myself to wait until Saturday (my free day).  When Saturday came, the craving would always pass.

Many times, I didn't feel like working out.  The trick, I found, was just to start.  Once I pumped the first set, or ran the first minute, my attitude changed and I eagerly continued the workouts.

I made an index card-sized checklist to track each day, if I worked out and if I followed the diet.  This was very motivating, especially in the beginning.  As the checklist began to be filled, I was motivated to see it through to the end.

For me, the most dramatic results were in the first month.  That's when I lost the most weight and inches around my waist.  I wasn't that fat to begin with, so I couldn't expect the same rate of weight loss throughout.  The last month, I noticed my body hardening, and my muscles looked bigger (even though they weren't that much bigger).  By sticking it out for three months, I saw a total transformation.

I did not take supplements (I live overseas right now, so I didn't have access).  I don't know if that would've made a difference.

Lessons & tips: Plan ahead of time.  Consider things like the weather, upcoming holidays,vacations, etc.  Make sure you have access to facilities.  Print out your workout logs and mark key dates on your calendar.  Have workout clothes.

When you feel like skipping a workout, force yourself to at least do the beginning of the workout.  You'll find yourself motivated to finish it and it'll be that much more satisfying when you're done. 

Know what you will eat each day beforehand.  It saves so much trouble. 

Avoid peanut butter.  I took PB sandwhiches with me when I couldn't prepare a meal.  It worked fine as a meal replacement (for 1 of the 6) but is too high in fat to eat more than once a day or so.

Keep your meals interesting.  Tuna sandwhiches were perfect for the program, although I got sick of them after a month.

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Nov 28, 2008, 11:55PM PST | 0 comments | 2 cheers