Mayday! Update, Week 1

The first week of my Mayday!  Challenge went really well – better than I ever could have hoped. 

Each day, my goal was to exercise at least 15 minutes, and after the first couple of days, I was able to do 30 minutes or more.  I surprised myself!  That is, until yesterday when I gorged on Shari’s Berries (totally worth it) and Pizza (not worth it) and didn’t exercise at all (definitely not worth it).

Oh well, though, today is a new day!

The scale doesn’t show a whole lot of change so far – not even two whole pounds lost – although, I’ve lost .8% of my body fat which is beyond exciting for me.  Yeah, yeah, I know the body fat thing can vary depending on the amount of water in your body at any given time, but I’m taking this little nugget and squeezing it for all it’s worth, ok?

The photos.  I am far more pleased with myself in this week’s photos, even after yesterday’s binge.  The comparison makes it even more impressive.  ONE WEEK of exercise and (fairly) healthy living, people! 

These photos make me want to stick with it.

   
  Today – Week One                     “Before”

   
     Today – Week 1                          “Before”

The scale can kiss my ass – look at that difference!

**Edited to add:  A few of you have emailed me asking about my “secret” and it’s no secret!  I’ll share any and all of my tips with anyone who wants them. 

First of all, I made up a bubble chart to help me easily keep track of what I’m eating and drinking, as well as how I’m exercising.  It’s incredibly simple, but oh-so helpful.  If you’d like me to send it to you (for some reason I’m not able to format it correctly to post it here, or I would) leave a comment here or email me at Jerdre53 (at) aol (dot) com.

Secondly, I think daily exercise is absolutely the key to me slimming down so quickly.  I alternate between cardio days in which I either jog/walk (I usually jog two laps, then walk a lap, and repeat), riding a stationary bike or walking on the treadmill and strength training.  I have a gym membership, but it’s almost impossible for me to get to the gym at this point in my life.  Instead, I rely on Jackie’s Power Circuit Training DVD, alternating between the lower body, upper body, ab and total body 15 minute work outs.  I love this DVD because it’s very low impact for my achy-breaky joints, yet incredibly effective.

Thirdly, before I put anything in my mouth I ask myself, “Is this going to help me or hurt me?” which doesn’t mean I can’t ever have anything tasty.  For example, having a delicious coffee with a friend?  Helping me.  But for the most part, it helps me to make healthy choices on a meal-by-meal basis.

I hope that answers any questions you might have!