Meet our Group 2 Study Participant, Linda...

Hi! I’m Linda.

I am very pleased to have the opportunity to participate in the Recipe for Fitness Transformation.

I discovered Chelle’s Fitness blog looking for new music for strength and cardio workouts (if you haven’t yet, check it out!) I admired the sense of humor and dedication she shared about her fitness adventure along the road to the figure competition. Her story inspires me.

I loved the idea of Taking over the World with Pinky and the Brain, I mean Changing the World with Chelle and Tab, and excitedly filled out the application. I really thought about it and decided that I wanted to do this. I want to feel strong and focused. Focus is something that has previously been a challenge for me. I have always been content to workout and/or eat healthy for a short time not being mindful enough though to make it a habit or more importantly a lifestyle; there was always something else that seemed more important. With the `Congratulations, you have been selected!’ came the wave of fear and self doubt. Can I do this?

Our two boys are now off to college and the realization of how fast time flies has really become evident. I have the perfect opportunity to commit to a twelve week program and make this lifestyle change. My husband is my greatest supporter and relieved that he can do just that as that I must be accountable to Chelle and Tab, no excuses and no regrets! The twelve weeks takes us right up to mid February, my birthday. I can do this, for battling self doubt, achieving goals and improving health is the best gift ever.
 

Starting Date: November 21, 2011     Age: 45           Height: 5'4.5"           Weight: 156.4 lbs

Date: February 11, 2012

Final Weight:  145.8 (-4.7 lbs!!!)

I almost quit.  Yes, before I even started I wanted to quit because I had to have a before photo.  I was soo nervous, posting a photo and stats and it was really freaking me out.  Tabitha stepped up and walked me through my fears and with her encouragement I began my journey.  That was twelve weeks ago.  I have conquered fears and self doubts throughout this process. 

As this adventure is coming to an end it is bitter sweet.  Bitter only because it is the conclusion of this program, sweet because of the connections I have made, the progress I have made and the actual fact that I completed twelve weeks! 

What is different this time?  Mindset, I really wanted to do this.  Support, I had an amazing support system.  I have admired and been inspired by transformations and the abilities that people have to really transform and make it work.  What makes it work? Why do they have the ability to make changes?  Can I do it?  The common denominator is the desire to make a change and putting forth the effort, day in and day out.  Hitting a speed bump and continuing on, taking the detour, arriving and enjoying the destination. We all have hit a few moments where we have struggled during this journey and with support and knowledge

We have made it! I appreciate how far I have come and I am no longer daunted by how far I have to go.

I have not achieved all of my goals, yet, and I have exceeded others. I have gained strength, improved endurance, and improved my health. I have learned that I can focus and with a plan it’s is easier so I cannot get sidetracked.  I am evaluating/re-evaluating and planning my next set of goals. “For you are never too old to set a new goal or dream a new dream” CS Lewis. 

The tools that Tab and Chelle have taught us will allow us to continue with confidence and succeed or even exceed our own individual goals.

Tabitha and Chelle set out with lofty goals, to Try and Change the World. As Tab and Chelle ride off into the sunset with a glass of wine, or sprint off to the gym with their protein smoothies, they may not have succeeded in Changing the whole World but they have certainly Changed all of ours.  Thank you Tabitha and Chelle for the push when we needed it, your support and encouragement, for sharing your knowledge and teaching us that we can.

Date: February 4, 2012
I do not belong to a gym I workout at home and it really works for me.  Many moons ago when we lived in the city I joined a gym.  It was beautiful, had lots of equipment, lots of people and was completely overwhelming.  I went for a month. 

We now live in a rural area and we have purchased some equipment over time because the cost of a membership and the hours of operation were not something we found practical.

The cost is reasonable and the hours of operation are convenient, no excuses.  This leads to the next challenge, setting aside the time which will work best.  Some days morning works best and others evening works best but I am making it work and it is becoming a habit which was one of my goals. I have learned many new exercises for developing challenging routines which is exciting and I am seeing results.

Results are something that others around me have noticed too.  I appreciate the support and kind words of encouragement. To allay any concerns I am eating healthy, I do eat lots, I do run, I do lift weights. I do believe a woman with muscles is feminine and actually I would LOVE to look like a model in one of those magazines.  I have stayed off the scale and as of yet I do not know how much I weigh, or have lost.  I am interested in losing inches. I am doing this for health and happiness. Yes, I do believe that you can do it too!

Date: January 28, 2012
Current Weight:  150.5 (-1.4 lbs!!!)
I am like the child who sits on the edge of the sandbox watching everyone have a good time, taking in what is happening, assessing the situation and then digging in – when it’s time to go!  Enjoying the edge of the pool and splashing around and jumping in – and then -it’s time to go!

Old habits die hard for I don’t know if I would have joined the transformation if Tab and Chelle hadn’t handed me the shovel and said dig, or thrown me in the pool!  I would like to think I could have done it myself but I think the truth of it is that I would have been, at ten weeks, thinking if I had started I would be that much further ahead. Why do we so often fear change, knowing that it will be good? I admire those who can just jump in, not worry and just do it.  I understand that it is not part of who I am, to have that ability but what I have learned is that I can change a little bit at a time, day by day and when I break it down and not worry about the BIG picture I can achieve what I set out to do.

We are heading in to our last two weeks.  We have discussed the importance of taking a week off of a strict workout regimen before starting another twelve weeks the goal being rest, rejuvenation and renewed motivation for new goals.  I can appreciate that at times this can be met with some resistance for fear of returning to old habits, however taking the time to still stay active, plan new menus and new workouts can also be energizing.

Now is not the time to rest or plan, for I have two more weeks to go, to workout, eat right and stay on track.  I am enjoying my time digging in the sandbox and playing in the pool!

Date: January 21, 2012
Week nine has been a good week.  Uneventful is sometimes a good thing, but it is never boring!

The workouts are great and continue to be challenging. The variety of workouts keep me motivated and I am never bored as there is always something new to challenge. Tabitha is so very creative. I have noticed that over the past weeks I am getting stronger and my cardio has most definitely improved.  I really look forward to the workouts everyday.

The meal plans are enjoyable as well. I really appreciate family favorites such as soups, meatloaf, mashed potatoes being able to be incorporated into meal plans but also there are many dishes which are now new favorites such as spinach and chicken quiche, chicken florentine and some which I haven’t had in years such as spaghetti squash.

I enjoy the ability to have variety in workouts and menu planning. Never think that workout and eating healthy is boring, think outside the box get creative and try something new!

Date: January 15, 2012

Current Weight:  151.9 (-1.7lbs!!!!)
Where does the time go?

We are entering into our final four weeks!  I am noticing a definite change in body composition and improved strength which I am definitely pleased with. There is still so much to do, more workouts, meal plans and homework and I am ready.  There is still a lot to learn :)

I have never had a coach before and I am lucky enough this time to have two!  The coaching and support is what is making the difference for me.  They are not only there to support but to advise and teach, not just me but all of us girls.  Tab and Chelle are a wealth of knowledge and the information I am learning will allow me to continue on with this process of becoming a stronger and healthier me. So, thank you Tab and Chelle!

It does not only affect me though, for I have been able to share information and great recipes with family. My husband has been enjoying our meal plans and so did the boys when they were home over the holidays. As both boys are away at college they do go home for lunch and make their dinners but were really interested in learning to make it easier. I shared the advice which I have learned about groceries and meal prep ahead of time. It was well received, as were some of the recipes they had when they were home, which were a hit as well! I have introduced quinoa to the boys but also my parents who are always willing to try something new whether they liked it and will cook it or not I don’t know but they did try it!

Time really does fly by for not long ago the boys were just little and running around and I did not have the trust in myself to be successful at a lifestyle change.  Now they are out on their own and making it work, and I am making this lifestyle work too!

It really is a Good Life!

(Feel free to sing in the tune of One Republic, I don’t sing but I can crank up the volume!)
 

Date: January 7, 2012
This has been a great week. I have learned so much this week.  I have had great workouts with new exercises and great menus with new recipes.  We are all learning how to put together menus with macronutrients in mind 40/30/30 proteins/carbs/fats.  This is something I had previously never thought about.

The biggest lesson I have learned this week is when you are having difficulty ask for help. I knew this was not going to be an easy 12 weeks and was fully prepared to work hard.  I was not prepared for the difficult mindset.  A moment of doubt here or there yes but this week was a challenge for more than just a moment. I have a great support system at home and used it this week. I asked for advice from a couple of great coaches which I received, changed up the workouts, changed up the music and found some great motivational pictures.  I picked myself up, dusted myself off and when I didn’t think I could lift any more I did.  When I didn’t think I could run anymore I ran further. I learned this week that I can.

Ready for Week 8 and all that it has to offer!

Date: December 31, 2011
I thoroughly enjoyed our Christmas visits. We had company and rocked our meal plans and we went home for a visit too. I ate well, not enough, but the choices were healthy. Home now and fully back on track. It was a wonderful reminder of why I am here, doing what I am doing, to get healthier and stay healthy as I wish to enjoy four or five generations with my family for many years to come, for I am the luckiest Mom, wife, daughter, granddaughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin ever!

On another note, to be honest, I was a little frustrated with my new nemesis, the scale.  I busted my butt with the workouts and ate well and with the scale results I thought “I should have just had the cheesecake!” Let this be a warning Scale, for I can be stubborn too, I will show you!

As a New Years is upon us, do you set New Years Resolutions? I am setting goals this year as per Tabs blog S.M.A.R.T. for resolutions seem to be made to be broken, I want to succeed so this year, I will set goals instead.

I have a head start this year, with the support of Tab and Chelle and am already well on my way to a healthier me! Goal one!  Here’s to 2011 and all that it was, I wish you a Happy New Year filled with opportunity, joy, success and happiness.  Here’s to 2012, A Happy New Year!

Date: December 24, 2011
Current Weight:  153.6 lbs (+0.1 lbs) 
This week has been a week of woes, computer, weather, and planning woes; thankfully it

Date: December 17, 2011 
This is the time of year to enjoy quality time with family and friends.  There are many traditions that people of have that go along with the holiday season. I understand that all the homemade goodies and treats are part of it and I am really thankful that I don’t have a real sweet tooth.

Once I have sugar I really do want more of it.  I learned a long time ago that it’s best to avoid it and have done great this week in doing that.  I will stay the course and stick with my plan J

The area that I have difficulty with is time, getting done what you need to do.  Everyone has that issue this time of year!  Workouts can tend to be on auto-pilot if you let them.  Your thoughts can wander and then you realize that focus is important. I have pulled back many times this week and made myself more aware and really tried to focus on the task at hand and keep the to-do lists away.

In this week leading up to Christmas take a deep breath and enjoy the process of the holiday season. It will all work out.  Enjoy good times, good friends and good health!
 

Date: December 14, 2011 

What Goal Weight Means To Me
 

Goal weight is something that is specific and measurable.  That is why I set a goal weight.  Is my goal realistic, too low, or too lofty, these are all questions which I have when I set goals.

Will I be happy if I don’t obtain my goal weight?  Definitely. 

I have previously found that I forget about the little successes and concentrate too much on how the numbers are playing out. I would get overwhelmed by how far I have to travel and then I would say, "Why bother?"  Too many times I have seen friends or family try and maintain an unrealistic weight and not appreciate the ability they have to enjoy life. The focus becomes the number.

I do not want to be managed by a number on the scale, I will be happy if it is higher or even lower. I will be happy feeling strong and healthy. I want to create a life where I have made exercise a habit. I will appreciate the small victories, each time I can run further or faster, increase rep or increase weight - Awesome!  I want to enjoy the journey knowing that I will reach my destination.

When I reach my goal, I will continue to work out. I will re-assess where I want to be and what I want to achieve.  For nothing is ever perfect and there is always room for improvement.
 

Date: December 10, 2011 

Current Weight:  153.5 lbs (-1.9 lbs)
I am continuing to enjoy the program.  The workouts are challenging and I am seeing improvements in strength and cardio already.  The meal plans are excellent! 

This week I have learned the importance of stretching.  It is something that is easy to put off but is so necessary- do not put it off.  As this is just the beginning stages of the program there are muscle movements and alignments that are being challenged, in a good way, and may tend to feel sore and grumpy.  Stretching will ease the discomfort of sore muscles and aid in flexibility.  It is also a great way to end a tough workout, feel good and relaxed.  Don’t skip it!
 

Date: December 3, 2011 

Current Weight:  155.4 (-1.0) 

Week two has been a great week; I’ve had great workouts!  I am still working on tweaking my meal schedule so I can fit in the meals and snacks. The knowledge that food is fuel is obvious however; I do need to be more mindful to eat regularly, as planned. This is a busy time of year for everyone and my challenge is to keep making it work, there is always room for improvement, but overall a great week. I am looking  forward to rockin’ week three!
 

Date: November 27, 2011  

Week one has been a week of discovery! I have rediscovered the feeling of strength weight training. I have discovered a love/hate relationship with the treadmill, a potential nemesis! I have discovered new recipes! Throughout the week there have been speed bumps (a slight injury or unexpected extended day) you know, life and I can adapt and still stick with my plan. I have discovered that when I am challenged I will say "I am currently struggling with" for pretty soon that challenge will be achieved and replaced with something new. Moving on and looking forward to week two.