be in the best shape of my life...

Yesterday, I went to the gym for the very first time since I injured my back 7 weeks ago. I have to take it slowly and be sure to not overdo it, but I managed to do a good amount of cardio. It’ll take me awhile to get back to where I was. It’s ever so important for me to keep in the best shape possible to prevent future injuries.

I’ve gained some extra poundage since I wasn’t able to do much physically for such a long time. Glad to finally be on the way to shedding those.

Also, I really can’t wait until I’m able to get back on my bike. I only got to ride it ONCE since I got it fixed up, since I literally hurt myself the day after I got it back from the shop. Geez.

a great way to celebrate the start of the 30s.

I have been in “The best shape of my life” several times… each time a little bit better in some area- cardio, strength, nutrition, etc. This year I want to bring it all together to holistically be in the best shape of my life. For example, making it a habit to make food choices that nourish my body, and go as many places as possible under my own power- run, ride, etc. Additionally, as part of my holistic approach, I will work on getting into the “best shape of my life” mentally and spiritually.

Within one year I will be in the best shape of my life.

Just as I’ve accomplished so many other goals, if I make this an overriding priority I can do this as well.

I will define the best shape of my life as the following 4 requirements:

1. I will weigh less than 203 pounds
2. I will have less than 11% body fat
3. I will be free of pain
4. I will be able to complete the Marine PFT with a perfect score: 20 chinups (untimed) 100 crunches in 2 minutes, run 3 miles in 18 minutes.

I was able to do this when I was 19 years old, I’ll do it again. I will break up this goal into 4 sub-goals. These are

1) Exercise Regularly
The amount of time spent exercising will change as I progress, but it will always be defined as type of exercise, and minutes spent exercising, and tracked weekly. I will also include monthly testing against the Marine Corps PFT to gauge my progress.

2) Implement a Diet and Nutrition Plan
I will select a diet, with emphasis on calories, type of nutrition (higher protein, low glycemic carbs, healthy fats), and frequent meals (minimum 5 a day). I will also add a supplement plan to my diet and track it as well.

3) Get Healthy
I will improve several problem areas in my health, which are both a nuisance now, and a hindrance to my fitness improvement. As a goal I will pursue pain free knees and elbows, and improved eye-sight.

4) Live an Active, Physical Lifestyle
I will spend a minimum hours of time each week in activities that get me outside and active. These may include swimming, biking, hiking, camping, geocaching, and playing sports.

Well, I’ve started running and I went and saw a nurtionist and so i’m well on my way. I want to lose 40lbs so I should be there in about 6 to 8 months. I’am having a minor set back I have the flu, so as soon as i’m over that it’s back to working out and eating healthy.

See my previous entry….

Well, it’s been a while since i’ve posted to this. I can honestly say I’m in the best shape of my life. My bodyfat is now below 17% – from 24 . I’m still aiming for less than 12- that should come soon enough. I actually dropped 4% in the last 5 weeks. I’m very motivated to get there.

I’m going to add a new fitness goal.

my legs are very sore from the lunges i did yesterday. feel the burn they say. i’m feelin it!

Workouts are going awesome! I’ve decided to switch to four days of cardio, used to be five. I don’t want to have the pressure to fit in five days. Since I’m doing my lifting during my lunch hours, all my cardio is after work. I will be finishing up a Pilates/yoga class on Thursday. Signed up for a yoga class starting in June (very excited about this).

I can see soooo many changes. I know the fat is dropping off. I’m not overweight at all- but trying to get that fat off is my main concern. I have definition in my arms and legs, chest getting more defined, and I know there are abs under there. I’m still shooting for 12% body fat by the end of June. I was at 21% April 01. I know it has gone down- getting it checked at the end of next week (the six-week mark).

One of these days I’ll post before/after pics. When I’m feeling gutsy.

Oh, last thing- I was a solid size 36 back in January- lost weight by dieting – went down to a solid 34. Since exercising I am now a low 33- can button a 32. Wow!

Well… I’m back into the routine of things. Shoulder no longer sprained. I feel so much better, more energetic when i’m working out.