London 2012

In spirit of the Olympics, a friend of mine asked me to join her fitness group of friends in a private Facebook group. The reason for this is to “Carry the Torch” for 9 weeks, which began on July 1st. This means choosing specific goals for the areas of fitness, nutrition, and spirituality, and in turn meeting those goals by the end of 9 weeks. What I enjoy about this group is that it’s there for support, accountability, and a swift kick in the behind! Everyday we are required to post how we did that day in all areas so everyone can see. Oh yeah!

When I think of Olympians I think blood, sweat, and tears. 24 hours a day. 7 days a week. Hardcore. Dedication. Focus. Patriotism. To be an Olympian is the ultimate. So, to be ultimately doing something for myself which is inspired by the love for my country and my appreciation for hard work is making this quest to better myself that much more satisfying.

For me specifically, my goals are the following:

• Run for X amount of hours
• Strength train for X amount of hours
• Get 7 hours of sleep a night
• No texting while driving
• Go sugar free
• And cook 10 healthy new recipes

The challenges I face with these are as follows:

• I have a 7 month old who just so happens to be getting all of his teeth at one time.
• I developed IT Band Syndrome 3 weeks in.
• I am a sugar addict.
• I have to workout at night which happens to give me more energy which makes it difficult to fall asleep at a decent hour.

How I have succeeded thus far:

• I told my man what I’m doing. He gets me coffee almost every morning so having to tell him to get my coffee without sugar and no caramel macchiatos was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but ultimately the most helpful. He doesn’t allow me to cheat.
• I create my workouts a week in advance so I go to the gym prepared.
• I take progress pictures and measurements.

In closing, setting specific goals, keeping track of my progress everyday, telling my loved ones about my goals, and having a GROUP to be there for support as well has helped me be successful going into week 4. I have also created a vision board in my notebook that I look at everyday to give me that extra push!

Have you had success with fitness/ weight loss goals? What was the missing piece of the puzzle?