And so it begins. I've submitted myself to a weight loss challenge. I'm not a fan of weight loss challenges because I strongly encourage clients, friends, family, and even perfect strangers not to focus solely on weight and, instead, find additional indicators of health and vitality. But with that said I'm actually super uber duber excited for this challenge! It's a 12 week challenge with a bunch of Facebook strangers and one friend- the "Hott Mama's" group dispersed across the USA. We pay $10 via PayPal, submit our before photos, measurements, and goals/plan and then weigh-in weekly. At the end of the 12 weeks we each get three votes on our favorite transformation and one winner takes all!
Here are the two main reasons why I'm excited about the challenge
1) Encourage other moms and be encouraged by them, and maybe make a few friends along the way as we get to know each other via Facebook over the next 12 weeks. I've seen pictures of these moms in their underwear- the least we could do is 'friend' each other on Facebook now and strike up some conversation.
2) I'm using it to kick-start my new journey away from just 'Fitness Professional' and into 'Wellness Coach' since my passions lie not only in helping others workout but also in helping them create clear paths to overall better health and wellness. So I will use myself as an example. This isn't just a weight loss challenge but a chance for me to transform my life in many little ways that will add up to one big healthy overhaul.
3) When this is over, rocking a pair of bright pink workout capris I just bought for $9.99 at Marshall's as well as the super cute shorts worn in the before pictures which fit loosely a month into pregnancy and now are so tight.
4) Going to Lululemon with Nicole and picking out fun new clothes for our transformed bodies!
For now I'll share with you my goals and action plan. Check back in 12 weeks and you'll see me in a sports bra and booty shorts 'cause at the end of the challenge I'll share with you the before and after pictures, weights, and measurements!
Goals: Decrease body fat (maintain nursing), tone arms/abs/legs to feel good in bikini/shorts, improve shoulder acne + redness on back of arms
Plan: Eat real food + increase activity
It's really this simple. Clients are always encouraged to elaborate on their goals and action plans, being as specific as possible to account for 'life stuff' and not leave any room for interpretation (excuses) along the way. But I've chosen to keep my plan as simple as "eat real food and increase activity" because I believe those two things will address all my goals.
Please leave your comments, stories, and encouragement in the comments section. I'll share some progress reports along the way and post the before & afters after May 24th.
Stay tuned!
Amanda
PS- Regarding the attached picture: you can notice changes in your body well before 4 weeks! And please don't hang in there for 12 weeks just for the sake of others noticing, do it for yourself first and foremost ;)
