Amanda's Challenge

New program on the way....

2005-11-24T12:39:00.000+11:00

Hey Everyone,

Well - sorry for the lapse inbetween blogs.... busy little life at the moment!

Will be starting my new program with Sue in the next couple of weeks... very excited. Sue is planning to make the most of what I can do around not being able to use my arm (it is actually becoming worse, even without use??... spoken with the physio - looks like a cortisone injection is going to be the answer - youchy!!)... anyway, have gained back a kilo over the last week and have been so lethargic and slack.... very keen to get back to being accountable to someone/something!

So - look forward to the next phase of my journey... it is coming!! Some new and some continuing ideals are about to step back under the spotlight......

Quote for today:

Ideals are like stars; you will not succeed in touching them with your hands, but like the seafaring man on the desert of waters, you choose them as your guides, and following them, you reach your destiny. - Carl Schurz

What I learned in my first 12 weeks....

2005-11-15T15:31:00.000+11:00

Hello,

Thought I would share what I sent through to Sue for my post 12 week speil...

I commenced my challenge with the goal of it being not a one off event but the beginning a life long commitment.

As a recovering perfectionist, I decided that this couldn't be about racing headlong down the treacherous path of trying to capture my ideal body beautiful within12 weeks. I knew that at 12 weeks and 1 day, if I hadn't reached what I perceived as the "perfect body" I would fall of the wagon and regress ten fold.

This challenge had to be about commencing a purposeful (and lifelong) stride toward a fit and well body, mind and soul - create a body "horizon" to have in view at all times. As any boating enthusiast would attest - you can never go wrong if you know where you are in relation to the horizon!

At 31, and the Mother of a 2 year old daughter and 5 month old son, I want to illustrate on a daily basis the importance of a positive and healthy attitude toward body image and general well being.

As a young person, I was very fit and active. During my teens & early twenties, for various reasons, I developed an inaccurate self image, and so started my friendship with emotional eating/fasting and other unsafe habits with regard to food and exercise. This ebbed and flowed in its intensity, however I never really "let it go".

I have long struggled with hormonal problems (weight fluctuations, mood swings etc). Three years ago I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and Endometriosis. Advised my chances of having children were slim, with the aid of fertility treatment, I was very fortunate to conceive two children close together. These drugs and the close succession of my children contributed to a significant baby bulge and the loss of muscle and tone.

My son was one month old. I felt fat, unhealthy and unhappy. I didn't want to entertain bad habits again, and decided to start on the road to build the person I wanted to be. I remembered reading an article in Women's Fitness and Health about an online personal trainer - http://www.idealbodiesonline.com/. I blew the dust off my fitness equipment cupboard, dug out the WFH issue and emailed IBO.

Program in hand, I was off with a cracking start! As with any worthy journey I faced some rocky patches, which at times, threatened my resolve to continue. My daughter had a chronic illness that resulted in minimal sleep for me most nights, and with the added challenge of a newborn, I was exhausted most days. I had to dig deep and remind myself of how important this was to me.

My own health fluctuated with a diagnosis of mild post natal depression and a battle with recurring bronchitis. The most difficult was five weeks prior to the end of my challenge I developed a significant case of tendonitis in my elbow and couldn't (and still can't!) do any upper resistance training.

Where there's a will, there's a way - I kept picturing my horizon!

Along with achieving a body I am happy with, and keen to continue improving, I have found a community of like minded people online who have been a great support team, particularly Sue and Rae who have been the lighthouses in the storm! I have kicked some long term and destructive habits, and replaced them with invigorating healthy ones, which is the achievement I am most happy about.

The horizon is looking better everyday!

(I could write so much more, but tried to limit to the 500 words!!)

Success Tips

Â· Make sure you have a visual representation of your goal near you at all times. Whether that be a picture of the body you aspire to, post-it notes with motivational quotes about reaching your goal or a journal that "keeps you honest" - this is the best way to remind yourself of where you are going - you cannot find your way, unless you know where you're headed!

Â· Prepare, prepare, prepare!!!!! There will always be challenging environment, party or excuse to deviate. Well intending friends and family will also unintentionally sometimes try to sabotage your efforts. If you have your food planned, prepared and packed ready, you are less likely to be tempted!

Â· Reward yourself for hard work. Allow the luxury of a soak in the bath, time to read a chapter of your favourite book, a massage - anything that make you feel good about you. Don't beat up on yourself if you don't meet your standards all of the time. Just capitalise on what you have done and keep moving toward your goal. There is no point in dwelling on what could have been, it is wasted energy. Focus instead on what will be

Â· Join an online blog/forum with likeminded people - they will inspire, encourage, motivate and educate you far more than you realise!

Â· Remember if you think you can or you think you can't - you're right. Determination burns within each one of us. Whether or not it will heat the room or the whole house depends on how much time we spend feeding the fire.

Favourite Recipe

Barbecued Mushrooms with Avocado

Serves: 4 person(s)Preparation Time: 15 mins Cooking Time: 12 mins 4 x large mushrooms
A mushroom dish perfect for brunch or an alfresco lunch!
Ingredients:

1 Tbsp olive oil3 cloves garlic, crushed2 small red chilies, finely chopped2 Tbsp thyme leaves4 large flat mushrooms, stalks removed1 salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste1 small avocado, flesh mashed2 Tbsp low fat sour cream

Directions:
Preheat a barbecue plate or char-grill on medium-high heat. Combine oil, garlic, chilies and thyme in a small container. Brush over both sides of each mushroom. Season mushrooms with salt and pepper. Set aside for 5 minutes. Place mushrooms flat-side down onto barbecue plate or char-grill and cook 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until just tender. Meanwhile, combine avocado, sour cream and salt and pepper in a small bowl. Mix well. Place mushrooms onto serving plates. Top with avocado mixture. Serve immediately.

On the road again....

2005-11-09T09:50:00.000+11:00

.... I just can't wait to get on the road again... - yes, daggy country music is on my repotoire!!!

I will be starting another program with Sue in the next few weeks, which I am really looking forward to!

I am in the middle of trying to find out/move forward on my elbow pain.... really quite excrutiating now and referring up and down my arm. However, after two major slovenly weeks off, I am back to business now and will keep doing my cardio, and lower/ab resistance till I have some kind of solution that allows me to use my arms!n I must admit I have OD'd on the chocolate and really paid for it (headaches etc) it is amazing how quick my body reacts now! I found an interesting read on reintroducing "binge" foods (for me chocolate and sour sugar coated jellies were it!) - also some other interesting bits and pieces associated with this site - have a look!
http://www.starling-fitness.com/archives/2005/09/01/how-to-add-former-binge-foods-back-into-your-life/

Found another worth a read site for those beginning their 12 weeks challenge, or those who are having a bit of a struggle right now (just a couple of pointers you know, however are worth a revisit!):

http://health.ninemsn.com.au/dietandfitness/section.aspx?sectionid=57&subsectionid=2470&subsectionname=motivation&sectionname=dietandfitness

Just thought I would check in and say hi - will be back regular bloggingg this week!

Cheerio,

Amanda

The first 12 weeks of the rest of my life...FRONT

2005-11-01T23:19:00.000+11:00

A bit of blurb...

2005-11-01T11:34:00.000+11:00

I would have had these up last night, however after spending 2 hours with dramas uploading/accidental deletion etc, I gave up till this morning - and now can't get them in the right order!!!!

Well here they are... the before and after shots!!!

I can't believe 3 months could fly by so quickly - it really doesn't seem that long. I am pleased with the results, given the amount of "challenges" that happened during this time. I am now moving forward and working on sculpting and muscle building - will write a bit more later about what I have learned, some tips and other little bits that may be of interest!

One major thing that I can share right now is.... when having a spray tan that is a new product - DO A PATCH TEST!!! You can't tell from the photo (thank God) however I can out in a full body itchy rash overnight!!!!! Not fun!

So, Kat how're you? Erica where are you at?? And Rae, love to hear how the comp went... will jot some more later!

Amanda

BACK

2005-10-31T10:32:00.000+11:00

SIDE

2005-10-31T10:30:00.000+11:00

The last week of this phase... Continuing journey!

2005-10-23T16:29:00.000+10:00

Hey Everyone,

Start weight: 78kgs
Current weight: 70kgs

I am so sorry that I have been a little light on with the chat... been a full week at work this week with additional days and not much time for little else once I get home!

I can't believe the first 12 weeks of my lifetime journey are nearly gone! This week (my final week) I am trekking over Cradle Mountain in Tasmania (Freycinet National Park?? I think!) with work.... the Management team are doing a bonding 3 days together - it is 28kms in total and mostly up hill (with 8 of the kms down hill.... don't know how that works!!). Should be beautiful if I can manage to look up from the feet in front of me up the hills!!! *Laugh*

MAN - initially I was really panicked as I thought "not my last week of the challenge when you really step up the pace" however, I have figured it is a really thorough and constant work out for 2.5 days, so I shouldn't lose too much ground!! We are very rationed on our food (as we have 18kg packs to carry as well!!! AAAGGHHH!!!!!!!) so I have a couple of my protein shakes to take. So, of course preparing for my photos will be tricky, however I have managed to cram in a haircut and waxing when I return just in time for photos of the "result"!

Interestingly, the last week has been really tough for me to get any of my physical program completed... and I have also injured my right elbow quiet badly and cannot do any resistance!!! BLOODY HELL!!! Anyway, I have given up freaking out over what I can't do and just concentrating on what I can.

I don't look as great as I had wanted to by the end of my challenge, however, as I have said before, it is a life time commitment that I am happy to not rush if it means creating lasting changes. I am still consistently dropping weight from the scales (not sure how much is body fat) and have not been able to go as hard on my resistance as I wanted to, so am not as toned as hoped, however, when my elbow is mended (currently can't pick up anything heavier than my baby in that arm.... trying to get to the bottom of it with a physio appt next week - probably going to send me for some scans of some sort) I will head back into a massive focus on sculpting!

How is everyone else going... go Kat - haven't resigned with Sue yet, have to save up a bit more!!! Erica what is going on with you?? Rae how did you go??? Well, off to finishing packing the bloody trekking pack (I am So NOT a camper) and organise my family to survive without me for the next 4 days (I know that they will, I just like to feel I am needed!!!) - be back on the blower when I return thursday!

Cheerio, Amanda

Final Countdown - 2 weeks to go!

2005-10-17T11:53:00.000+10:00

Hey Guys,

Start weight: 78kgs
Current weight: 71kgs

Well - here we are on the final count down... thanks to Bella for having a very informative and inspirational site (check it out - her blog is Red Beatle - http://redbeatles.blogspot.com/).

After having a little hiatus in training with Tara being in hospital etc, I was back running last night and this morning... going well - weight training has been a little tricky with the elbow and finger pain, however not too bad and persevering.

It is interesting, I deviated from my dietary plan over the weekend (for the first time in over 5 weeks) and really paid (gas, diorrehea, stomach pains etc) - my body must really be loving the clean life! Sooo that was great to see/feel as I really don't want to eat crap of any kind anymore (still have the occassional chocolate craving though!!).

I have been reflecting lately, and was a little bummed at myself for not putting in 100% effort for the entire time I have been on this challenge (had some lapses here and there), as I have had good results and could have had GREAT... however, life doesn't stop at the end of 12 weeks and my goal is a life time of healthy happy body image etc, so I know that continuing to work at it will pay off... my aim now is to really focus on building muscle, losing the rest of my body fat to what I would like and really sculpting. I must say, my baby is now 4 months old, and I feel okay about how I look.... I couldn't say that last time - so that is a definite step forward.

Sue's program really is fantastic, and if stuck to 100% will produce the exact results that you're after... I really am amazed at the results I have achieved for not being 100% diligent - so imagine what can happen when you are!!!! Going to have a round 2 - so that should see me more focused and onto it... All of the major issues of illness within my family seem (touch wood) to be on the mend, that really did play havoc with my time and resolve, however, that is life isn't it!! Just gotta go with and make the best of what you have!

I love working out and really miss my run or weights session, which I never thought I would reach! So the healthy happy me has moved in to stay!

Found an interesting site that comments on how to get over the major blocks that we all go through - have a read http://www.internetfitness.com/articles/zone.htm - this is a generally interesting site too - so have a look!

Have settled back into being at work and managing my food in an easily sabotaged environment (I work in hospitality!) and already with Tara having had her tonsils out, both of my treasures have been sleeping more, which means I have... MAN WHAT A DIFFERENCE an extra hour can make!

So, better be off and do some work... keep it up guys! Well done Kat - glad you sorted the shoe issue!! Erica, how's it going?? AND Bella, you're my next pin up inspiration!! Keep it coming Love!!!

Today's Quote:

Determination burns within each one of us. Whether or not it will heat the room or the whole house depends on how much time we spend feeding the fire.

Bring on the Hurdles!

2005-10-11T20:13:00.000+10:00

Hey All,

Sorry for the absence of words from me this week... preparing for Tara to go and have her tonsils and adenoids out tomorrow (scary for me - 2 and major surgery... I have been told by so many she will be fine!)...

Have been battling bronchitis again this week, however, know that I was more run down than normal, so have managed to battle through pretty much.

I have been really hammering on the program, and having some trouble with joint pain... odd - it is mostly in the fingers and elbows, with intermittent knees - has anyone had this? ANYWAY... without being silly, I am continuing on my plan, have lowered my weights which I am bummed about as I feel as though I have lost some definition already!!! (AND there wasn't a heck of a lot to lose!!!) and making sure I really warm up and down!

SOOO I will be spending the next couple of days in the hospital, I joked with Sue and said I had packed my skipping rope for the corridors as I am really loath to miss my training, however, it will be fine... when I am home and there are two of us to nurture the treasures I will steal some time to fit it in!

I read a really inspiring story in a magazine this week (will get back to you re which one!) about a young girl with cystic fibrosis and how she has battled so many odds and has so many ambitions... there may be hurdles aplenty in any goals you wish to achieve, but just keep plugging away... I may not reach the goal I set for myself to achieve at the end of 12 weeks, given the few unforseeable "bloody hell" hurdles!!... however I will be close and will roll that goal over into the next 12 weeks on my way to a life time of happy, healthy and strong (in all aspects of my life!)...

What a glorious day... new philosophy - "Arete"

2005-10-03T08:34:00.000+10:00

If you're in Sydney - get out there and throw your face to the sun, roll in the grass or run, splash and skip through some water - it is a pearler of a day!!

I came across this last night, and decided I would use it as my new mantra today:

The classic Greek philosophers had a word for the process of self-actualizing and striving to reach your highest potential. They called it arête.' (pronounced ar-uh-tay).

In fact, Arête was one of the most important values in classic Greek culture. Socrates, Plato and Aristotle tell us that the meaning of life is happiness and that the way to achieve happiness is to live with areté (aka excellence, striving to reach your highest potential).

I have been for a run, and also done part of my resistance training, which I will complete tonight. I have stacked up the work fridge with my work week worth of correct food and I feel great.

I had a total of 4.5 hours sleep last night (some party revellers noisly made their way down my street and set all the dogs off, which in turn woke both of my babes, who took some time in settling!!) and I know that I will struggle come around 2:30pm, however have decided to really concentrate on pushing through and taking what I do have.

I am back, one foot in front of the other on my journey of a healthy happy moi!!

A total shocker of a week....

2005-10-02T19:06:00.000+10:00

Hey there,

Well, after my last chat, I have gone from bad to worse!!! Totally wigged out on everything (have trained once this week (cardio) and feel over it. Diet has been poor (wedding last night and ate the dessert!!!). I am really disappointed in myself and feel as though I have again ruined the last 8 weeks - BUT LOGICALLY, I KNOW THAT IS WRONG AND NOW JUST CONTINUE ON WITH IT...

Kat... you know, the depression thing is hard... I struggle with it and some days it overtakes all my motivation and the "knowing it"/ "excuse" of it allows me to let myself give in to the I have blown it, give up now crap. This week has been the worst yet in sleep deprivation and exhaustion given my return to work, and I really have allowed it to take over, and fall of track... instead of reminding myself how important this it to me and overcome it.

HOWEVER... having said that we are the only ones who can make the change -whether that means being stronger than the voice inside our heads saying "you're not worth of this achievement" or whether it means seeking assistance (in the form of acupuncture, hypnotherapy or medication, or whatever) - I have been all those roads previously actually (a little prone to the depression thing) and it really isn't to be taken lightly or shaken offf. You can, however, not let it rule every waking thought (this has happened to me this week).

I know that it is me, my will to succeed and the "how much do I really want this change" that decides whether today will be a successful day (on all fronts, not just the challenge). Knowing that sometimes makes the pressure of the failure all the more prevalent.... however, vicitm status really prevents us from moving forward. I feel like you a lot of the time, and when writing these blogs, it is the time I use to motivate myself out of it, rather than allow myself to indulge in it (ie I really want the sympathy vote, and know that it is really not helpful to have it... it just allows my indulgence of "not getting on with it" to continue.)

This is absolutely not a criticism - I really do GET IT... I have spent more time this week fighting my way out of tears (for so many reasons...) than not, however, I have to rise above and get on with valuing myself enough to achieve my goals. AND, relatively life is so good for us (thinking now of those poor people in Bali who, again have had their lives, livelihood etc destroyed)...

This is something that was often said to me and I used to get really p***d off - however, having children REALLY makes you realise how absolutely self indulgent you could be when you didn't... and I can't allow myself the "luxury" of being down and blue all day, searching my soul for the "why am I failing" or why can't I be true to myself and stick to my plan ALL THE TIME... because little eyes are upon me always, and my daughter, being two and a particularly sensitive little one picks up on it all.... and if really affects her... and SHE deserves better, as do I..

Why all the rabbiting on and philosophy (No, I've not been drinking!!???) BECAUSE I so know how you feel, and feel it often too... find something that works for you, to try and help you through it. I know that it can be a real crutch and excuse for me not to go out/enjoy myself/train/be happy.... because the comfort zone of "down and out" is where I have been on and off for a long time. BUT truly, it is so much better to seize the day (go and re-rent Dead Poets Society.....) because the thrill of even a little "win" in your day is SOOOO much better than hours of "woe is me"...

I don't do it everyday (seize the day), however in the last 6 months I have seen illness and people close to me lose loved one - a real wake up for me in so many ways.... we ARE ALIVE and deserve to make the most of that canvas we have - they have no more choices and we have so many....

SOOOO - I am now off to do some resistance training (the cherubs are in bed and hubby at work) even though I am knackered, I WILL because I need ot walk my talk or I am a fraud!

Work tomorrow... have packed my food for the week and no more falling off the wagon... This success is important to me, and so I need to treat it as such!

Today's quotes:

" Always remember, if it is not a cheerful morning, then let your cheerfulness make it one."

" Sometimes you have to take a step back in order to take two steps forward."

" Success is full of answers; failure is full of questions."

Successful people find answers to any questions that they face. People who fail at something fail to find answers to their questions and live with the "could, would'a, should'a" mentality.

Return to work... more organisation needed!!

2005-09-28T19:04:00.000+10:00

Hey Everyone... a really heartfelt thanks again to Kat, Erica and Rae - my beacons of light when the storm clouds close in!!! Sorry for the lack of blogging.. have been without my computer for a few days - amazing how lost I feel without that!

Start Weight: 78kgs
Current Weight: 72 kgs

Well - I am feeling a bit like the little engine that could right now... I think I can I think I can... I have had a few set backs and really need to get back on track in a big way. I have missed 3 cardio sessions and 2 resistance. Feel knackered, lethargic and a little blue! Amazing how you really come to rely on those endorphines!!

I commenced back at work this week (and work in hospitality surrounded by food, drink and poor choices!!)... I have dealt with a few tricky emotions (guilt at leaving my children, especially my baby so young) and also am really really struggling with fatigue (lack of sleep through baby/toddler issues and also returning to work and trying to keep up there). ANY SUGGESTIONS WOULD BE GREAT RE ENERGY! When Sue returns I will purchase some of the green stuff... hope that helps.

I KNOW there is no substitute for sleep, however, this is a little out of my control at the moment (baby's need to be fed!!! Crying, sick toddlers need to be comforted!!!) so I am really struggling not to let that take over EVERY day and prevent me from keeping up with my plan, and it really does make me feel better when I train, I know this and just haven't been able to push that through over the past 3 days - WILL do it tomorrow... I have to.

The main reason I have missed my sessions this week is because I didn't get up at 5am (really the only time I can train, religiously and nothing will interfere), as I really just felt I couldn't. I realise I just have to, or the results WON'T happen. I have stagnated on size and weight over the last week and a half, and I have to not let that get me down, but use it as a further motivator (c'mon Kat, you can do this too)...

I keep hearing Sue's words echoing in my ears... it is a long term thing, not just for the competition/12 weeks etc. As a competitive person, that is a little tricky to keep remembering, as I feel panicked when I fall off the wagon - however, it is true - the competition is simply a motivator, and the aim is to be well, healthy and happy long term...

I will be a healthy role model for my daughter, and also my son - they don't need a Mother who is constantly obsessed with her image and what goes into her mouth. They will have a Mother who enjoys her life, makes it her own and owns it...

Quote for today:

When you think it's all behind you
And that you're far ahead of it,
Watch out
Because it's then that it sneaks up to grab you
And pull you right back down with it.
So don't you dare,
Don't you dare even think about quitting
You're in it this far

Just keep your head up
And keep on pushing

You'll make it all right
It's when you think that you're done
And you tell yourself that you can't go any farther
Then you have to look yourself in the eyes
And say, "Get up, get up"
And don't ever give up
For you are better then this.
So don't you dare
Don't you dare even think about quitting,
You're in it this far

Just keep your head up
And keep on pushing
You'll make it all right
And so when they say it's over
You say, "Never"
And then you must keep on going
Because it's that last mile that you go
When you think you can't go any farther
That will make all the difference in your life
So don't you dare
Don't you dare even think about giving up
When I know you have so much more to give
Don't you dare
Don't you dare.

Introducing my family!

2005-09-21T22:29:00.000+10:00

My darling girl on her second birthday a couple of weeks ago...

I figured, since I mention these people, I may as well introduce them to you... I am one of those who panic about posting personal photo's/info on the web as you never know who is watching and wanting to tamper, however, figure life is there to be lived... not feared and unless or until I find a need to be cautious, I may as well live as I wish to!

2005-09-21T22:19:00.000+10:00

My little mate...
Can you tell what sport Daddy plays and loves??!!

This is my littlest treasure, who is now 3 1/2 month old... goodness time fly when you're having fun!

Loving Life... my new way of life setting in!

2005-09-21T20:41:00.000+10:00

Start Weight: 78 kgs
Current Weight: 72 kgs

Well - 7 weeks into it, I finally feel as though it is a "habit"... I feel like I am missing something if I don't do my resistance training each day (not to say I haven't missed a couple of sessions... but always raring to make it up!) - woo hoo - you gotta get on this ride, it takes a while to get used to, you lose you tummy on the dip, but when you reach the top of the summit and are heading back down the other side, there is no thrill like that of results - I am telling you, who needs drugs??!!!

I am loving getting out and doing my cardio (truly!), although am finding that is the bigger challenge to work around my husband's shift work and my little ones... although, every time I think "today I am gonna miss out - it is too hard" I remind myself that I need to be as important as the other 3 in my family, and I FIND THE TIME.... it is amazing when the mindset kicks in, and the body's endorphines are USED to being pumped, that you WANT to get out and do this - all the time!!

I am finding that my sugar cravings have returned, so have asked Sue for some advice re why and how to combat that, so will keep you posted!

With the illness issues of my 2 year old, I really am tired ALL the time... however, always feel energised immediately after I do something physical. That has been my biggest challenge over the past couple of weeks, however, as much as I feel I would cut off my right arm for 8 hours uninterrupted sleep right now, I do get up at 5:30am on the mornings I know there is no other chance for decent cardio that day, and go - it really is a sacrifice for me to forgo an additional 30 minutes in bed, however, results that are coming through are worth it.

You know, I was just about to write that I haven't put in as much effort as I could have over the last 6 weeks, however, it has just occurred to me, that I have. I have done what I could do, that was manageable for me at the time. I am not going to beat myself up over what I missed out on/didn't push or ate! I am going to celebrate what I did do, and use that as the motivator to do even more now.

I have pinned the "before" and the "half way" me on the fridge (to be taken down when guests drop by!!!!) next to Jennifer Garner, because, although possibly not a huge difference to notice to you the reader, it is really big for me.

Sooooo - I have just about hit full throttle, and am really keen to sprint it home, so to speak. If you are reading this, and you are thinking about embarking on a life altering experience -DO IT, do not sit and think about it... move your butt and do it NOW. There is no time like right now.

Quote for today:

"People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing - that's why we recommend it daily."

FIND SOMETHING THAT INSPIRES YOU TO BE A BETTER YOU, ON ANY LEVEL - EVERY SINGLE DAY.... This is my new resolve! And find someone you trust, and tell them... ask them to make you accountable for doing this everyday.

6 weeks in... see the change!

2005-09-14T12:19:00.000+10:00

The 6 week shot...yippee - there are noticable changes!!

Scroll down to see the "before" of 6 weeks ago...

The 6 week photo reference....

2005-09-14T11:56:00.000+10:00

Hey there,

Well, it is very useful to have the photos for comparison... I honestly couldn't really see a difference looking in the mirror, just knew that my clothes fitted a little better... and then to put the before and after up shows that there is definitely a change!!

So, once again, I have braved it, and placed the photo up.... so that everyone striving for goals on their challenge can see it DOES work - perseverance will and does pay off!!!

Feeling great today - this has really motivated me to kick some butt!!!!!

Quote for today:

" Mental toughness is to see the long term pains rather than be put off by short term pains. Once you have this toughness, you will always have the winning edge."

Moving on up...

2005-09-11T08:06:00.000+10:00

Thanks Sue, good reminder - it is a life journey, not just a 12 week one!

Have been out for my cardio session this morning and also added in a quick dip in the ocean (I live near a beach pool) - wow did that take the breath away, however was also very invigourating! Feel great and back into it!

Off to my niece's christening with all my own goodies packed so that I won't be tempted!!

A thought to help placing one foot in front of the other on the tough days!

2005-09-10T14:38:00.000+10:00

"Action is the key to success.

Procrastination will tempt, fun and games will call, and people will interrupt, but the secret of achievement is to FOCUS.

Isolate what you want to do, get started, and DO IT WELL."

Mind Games...

2005-09-10T14:08:00.000+10:00

I think my blog is back working now!!

Well.... Bloody hell - all happening so well and I go and totally blow it again.... sigh. I have come down with another cold, and feeling miserable and sorry for myself (where was my mental rah rah coach when I needed her??!!! - you know, the one that sits in your head when Sue isn't around and says "what the hell are you doing??!!!! Don't sabotage yourself!!!!") - probably off eating a family size block of chocolate!!

SO what did I do at the thought of not having the energy to do either my cardio or weights???? Make the most of the situation - that would have been sensible - NO NO NO... I drank a hot chocolate, at a Crunchie and 2 muffins.... of course, I had to go out and buy all these items - that makes it so much worse.... a conscious decision to deviate badly. I also drank 1, yes 1 glass of water the entire day???? IDIOT....

So today, I feel like a total failure, loser and that I have put myself back about 3 weeks... Kat & Erica, you are so right, the mind side of this is huge. I have known all along that my emotions and moods are difficult for me to separate from some of my ambitions. I have had a "down" kind of week this week, and it has really weakened my resolve. There I was thinking I could see results, and now I think it is all in my head. SIGH. My GP diagnosed me with mild Post Natal Depression a couple of weeks ago.... I actually think that it is simply exhaustion from Tara being so unwell since Clay arrived, and that (coupled with the stress that goes with it) is further draining the sleep opportunities, however, I guess all things have an impact don't they?

However, to feel better about myself, I really need to do this, and see some really good results... I have to keep remembering that... the fat me is not conducive to supporting good mental health, let alone physical health!

I really fight with myself sometimes to remember that blowing it on occasion doesn't mean throwing the whole challenge away. Why is that??? I sit in the lounge some days and think about what exercise I could be doing right then, when I could be simply up and doing it???? What is that all about?

Anyway - watched Alias on Thursday night (my motivating image is Jennifer Garner, because believe it or not, I once looked like that!!!) and reminded myself that there is still an entire 6 weeks to achieve this (rather than holy shit, 6 weeks is gone - the good old glass half full thing).... so today I have managed to do my weights and will head off for cardio when the little ones wake up (pretending I don't have a cold - going with the mind over matter option here!)...

Words of strength and wisdom would be much welcomed now!!

Quote for today (bit reflective of my mood, however, worth thinking about!):

" I sit and wish sometimes that life wasn't so complicated...that maybe just for a short amount of time the pieces of the puzzle could just fall in place and all life's worries could just vanish. But, if life actually was that easy, would it be as rewarding to finish the puzzle?"

Back on track...

2005-08-29T00:48:00.000+10:00

Quick note - I have had to change the date to have my blog show.... I can't get my last couple of entries to come up on Sue's site!!! A drama we are hoping to rectify soon!! So this is really for September 6th!!

Hi all - just a quick one to say I have finally found my groove....!!!! Hooray - I have managed to stay on track almost perfectly for a week now (goodness, only taken me 4 to get here!!). I am still struggling a little with maintaining eating enough through the day, will ask for some pointers on this one from Sue this week!

Start Weight: 78
Current Weight: 73.5

I am finding my fitness has suddenly found 5th gear and I am able to run for reasonable lengths (once over the initial 5 minute push!) and maintain my breathing etc. I am a water fiend now and am not interested in drinking anything else (except maybe the occassional very vanilla latte from Gloria Jeans - I use this as a reward!!).

I have also increased my resistance training from using 3 kilogram weights to 6.5 kgs and counting... really, this has all happened over the last week, it really is like I have found overdrive, knowing that the countdown is on! Until next week!!

Quote for today (I LOVE this one and review it often):
" The point of life is not to arrive at your grave safe and sound, but to skid in sideways, out of control screaming, 'Whoa...What a ride!'"

Hi there,

Week 4 Day 21

Just a quick one to say I am back on track and feeling great about it... off for a powerwalk now, and have managed to get in two per day as well as a resistance training session! WOO HOO... No more excuses or making everyone else in my life the priority!!

I am determined to achieve quite a bit prior to my half way mark!! I have Jennifer Garner in view and this weeks quote:

"Walking your talk is a great way to motivate yourself. No one likes to live a lie. Be honest with yourself, and you will find the motivation to do what you advise others to do." - Vince Poscente

Back to the bottom of the hill...

2005-08-27T20:51:00.000+10:00

Thanks so much Kat, Kerryn and Sarah... Kat I am so pleased to hear that you have had some "difficulties" too!! Kerryn, yes, you're right - sleep is soooo important (and VERY lacking in my world right now!) - thanks for the words of encouragement! Sarah - how are you going??

Start Weight: 78 kilos
Current Weight: 74 kilos

I sound like I should find a quartet of violinists at the moment (however, I shall tell you my woe-is-me story!!). Have been laid up this week with a flu like virus, as well as my daughter having tonsilitis and a middle ear infection (this has been going on and off for 3 months) -equaling very little sleep - and lots of exhaustion - and I have basically blown the last week - very depressed and down about it till today... and again, realised that life throws these challenges for a reason and decided to get off my butt instead of contemplating my navel!

I did two power walks and stuck to my nutrition plan, and upped the water ante (have been going okay on that one!) so feel back on track. I really underestimated the challenge involved with working around a young family! Interestingly, my 10 week old is the very least of my worries - he has started sleeping thr0ugh the last two nights (hooraay!!) - the two year old and her health are just wearing me down - ANYWAY......

I have still lost some "weight" however, not really any size that I can see... I have refrained from getting out the tape measure as if it isn't good, I don't need any discouragement!

Sue has some fabulous literature and words of encouragement, and best of all, I don't feel alone in the hard moments. I have given myself a motivator too - a friend whom I run with has given me a trick for visual motivation and breathe regulation - if we chant Elle McPherson in a rhythm with the run it works and keeps me able to control my breathing!!! Try it!!

Also - another tip... when running up a hill, look down (or wear a cap - it limits your long peripheral vision) and keep low - helps get you there whilst conserving energy!

Well - thumbs up and sights set for a "perfect" week this week.... nutrition on track today, water consumption exceeding requirements and resolve back to "YOU CAN DO IT"....

Thought for the week:

"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts" - Winston Churchill

2005-08-27T20:00:00.000+10:00

Oh my God... I have braved it and placed the photo up - incentive to have to change!

2005-08-27T19:56:00.000+10:00

The "before" me... minus the bikini!

Week 2, Day 12

2005-08-20T17:36:00.000+10:00

A little while since my last post...

Man - it is amazing how much will power I have inside my head just laying dormant and hiberntating for the winter!! I haven't had a great week this week... SIGH, and as a consequence lost a little of my resolve for a day or so (ie - I have blown it, why bother now), however am now back on track! As Sue says, we WILL have days where we "fall off the wagon" - I figure now, I just gotta run like hell, catch up and jump back on!!

I have to say, I wasn't home (unexpectedly) for much of the week, and so didn't have my goal book or my numerous pictures of (a non-pregnant!) Jennifer Garner around... amazing how easy it is for me to "push aside" my goal when I don't have my reminders!!

I spent most of my week wandering the corridors of the hospital or ferrying a family member backwards and forwards from there (whilst also tending to my children!)... so found it extremely difficult to stick to my meal plan and almost impossible to maintain my training schedule and want to. I must say, a very small plus... I was REALLY diligent in avoiding my weakeness of coke and chocolate, succumbing to the treacherous vending machine only once for - wait for it - a SNICKERS!!!!!!!! Could I have picked anything worse??? Each bite saw me going "what are you doing???" but wasn't enough to make me stop eating it!

ANYWAY - home again home again jiggedy jig now, and have spent a bit of today preparing my veggies and meat for next week. So at least that is something. Determined more than ever to keep this week fully on track, as now there are only 10 to go... and that isn't many!

I have had a number of nights in the week where I had around 3 hours sleep - that has been very difficult for my energy levels, however I think how I will attack that this week is continue the cardio first thing (an non-inspiring 5:30 in the morning!) and keep with the resistance/abs at night as I can do most of that whilst watching telly (and if I sit on the lounge without having done it, my husband asks me what I am doing - good to have another conscience around!)... more on my feelings, thoughts etc later!

This week's quote:

"People who are unable to motivate themselves must be content with mediocrity, no matter how impressive their other talents."

Andrew Carnegie

The day before the big start...

2005-08-08T10:44:00.000+10:00

Hi there,

I am Amanda and I am going to take you on my 12 week "body challenge" journey...

My 12 week challenge commences tomorrow... the "I'll start Monday" thing is for real! Sue has given me the opportunity to add some further motivation to my resolve by allowing me to share my journey in an open forum. I am excited and a little bit nervous about this, however, I look forward to any and every piece of advice as well as general conversation along the way!

So what's my story and why I am I here? I am 31 and currently on maternity leave from my role as a Training Manager in the Hospitality Industry. I am married and have two gorgeous children, a girl (Tara) aged 2 and boy (Clay) aged 7 weeks. I do have a little tale to tell as to why I have enlisted the fantastic and much needed help of Ideal Bodies Online - so here goes!

Throughout my teens and very early twenties I didn't have any problems with my weight, I was a fairly active sporty girl and was generally between a size 8 and 10 (I so didn't realise a good thing when I had it!). During this time, I became qualified and spent some time as a Personal Trainer - a fantastic and rewarding experience!

Even though I was educated about such matters, my poor eating habits commenced, and my weight started to hit a rocky road during a particularly difficult time (a major relationship disaster!) around my mid 20's and then further plummeted in my late 20's. As a by-product of the relationship disaster, I gave up Personal Training early on and kind of boycotted the fitness world, sabotaging all the hard work I had done for myself!

Fast forward to age 27 as a snug size 12, I decided to stop taking the contraceptive pill in my first step to cleansing & overhauling my declining fitness and health levels. During the following 6 months I experienced varying, escalating (hormone related) issues, and was eventually diagnosed with a severe case of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).

Some of the side effects of the hormonal imbalance associated with PCOS include excessive weight fluctuations (of which I had never experienced before in my life), excess acne (I had never had that either!) and excessive body hair. AND so started an emotional and hormonal rollercoaster relating to weight, general appearance and food, fuelled by the advice that I MUST attempt to become pregnant now (without having that as a plan for at least another 5 years), or I may never have the opportunity. I was shocked, devasted and felt as though someone had placed my life in a jar and shaken the living daylights out of it.

I commenced fertility treatment immediately and that was not pleasant, or kind to my body! After several months, I was extremely fortunate and feel pregnant. Although I started out eating very well, towards the end of my pregnancy, Tara was sitting on my sciatic nerve (excruciating) and I could barely walk, and just gave in to the (seeming) food heaven I had resisted and gained close to 20 kilograms.

I lost 17 kilograms over around 11 months and was advised not to wait too long before trying for the second (as an only child I have NEVER wanted one child!) and so as a size 12 - 14, not only was I three kilos heavier than my (less than ideal) starting point last time, I was far less toned and had far more "soft" and "floppy" bits :-(

This time I gained 16 kilograms, did hardly any exercise and lost even more tone (all the while I knew how bad it was going to be after again..., this didn't motivate me though). I just gave in to the "oh well, I am fat already" thoughts - RIDICULOUS!!!! As soon as I had Clay, I snapped out of it, and I resolved that I needed to do something NOW about how I felt and the general look and feel of my body.

I was depressed and feeling like a middle aged frump. I decided that I wanted to belong to the "yummy Mummy" club and that I needed help to do so. Much of my work revolves around motivation, goal setting and change management - so why couldn't I do this for myself??

With finances and time constraint (with two littlies and a husband who works shift work!) factors not conducive to hiring a Personal Trainer on a regular basis and/or joining the gym, I decided to go for plan B and dig out my old Women's Fitness and Health magazines. I had remembered an article I read about Jodie Arnold, and that she had used an online personal trainer.... and here I am!!!

I have started many a fitness/weight loss/muscle building "regime" over the past 3 years only to fall down at the first few hurdles. I can't say what is different this time, however I have a real fire in my belly to succeed. The fact that I am accountable is a major motivator for me, as I hate to let other's down. I am also a tick the box - achieved yes or no kind of gal. As Sue has written a specific "to the letter" nutrition and exercise plan, I have no reason to have choice get in the way of making a decision... the decisions are made, I just have to act. This works well for me!

After a week fraught with illness in my house, I am on the better end of bronchitis and conjunctivitis (gotta love pre-school illnesses that attack the entire family!) and was feeling worried about how I would start tomorrow feeling less than 100%?? I have realised that I just get up, and start. It really is that simple. There is never going to be the perfect time, with the perfect environment - it is now or never!!! I spent the better part of today shopping for and preparing my food for the week (tick one to me in my goal list for this week!!!!).... so I am ready to face the road ahead! It is amazing how great I feel just having done that!

So - here I am the night before! Camera is charging ready for the always horrendous "before" photos, the house is void of all nasty "resolve breaking items" (I do not need chocolate, I don't...!!!!), my husband's weights have been dug out and returned from the brother-in-law and my "ready for action" clothes are washed, dried and waiting to be donned in the chilly wee hours of the morning!I look forward to sharing this week's journey soon!

A little thought to end on:"There is no chance, no fate, no destiny that can circumvent, or hinder, or control a firm resolve of a determined soul" - Unknown

Ciao for now.... Amanda