I finished my first challenge in March and lost 32 pounds and 7.5% body fat but I was still about 25 pounds from my goal weight. I decided the best thing for me was to sign up for another challenge to get me to my final goals. I also thought this would help reinforce the healthy habits that I started the first nine weeks.
I knew it was time to take some time for myself and find “me” again. I was pretty athletic in high school and college and could eat anything without having to worry about gaining weight. Life then gave me four amazing boys within six years. Their schedules became hectic, which meant lots of track and cross country meets, football, basketball, soccer and baseball practices and games, plus a full-time job. Lots of eating on the run and not exercising took a toll on my body, mind and confidence.
Kickboxing, strength classes, cross training
Having a coach assigned to you that can get you through just about anything is a huge help as well. Being able to have someone there to push you beyond what you think you are capable of, to ask questions about nutrition and to share your frustrations and successes is key.
I won't lie, there were moments of doubt. There were moments that I wanted to give up and walk away. Moments that I didn't feel good about my progress and where I was at with my weight.
Now 18 weeks later, I've met all of my goals that I set for myself in January. I dropped an additional 24 pounds and 8.8% body fat in the second challenge.
It isn't easy. You have to work hard to see results both with the exercise and the nutrition, but it is well worth it.