Losing Weight for my 30th Birthday

A few months ago I decided that I needed to get back on the fitness wagon, but this time not focus on trying to drop X amount of lbs or fit into Y outfit. I wanted to set realistic goals and create a lifestyle change. My good friend Sexy and the Chi told me that things get REAL after 30 and I better be at my ideal weight before I join the club.

I decided that I wanted to reach my target weight by my 29th birthday (next month) and maintain it for a full year leading up to my 30th birthday next year. I knew it wouldn't necessarily be "easy" to drop the extra weight, but I made a commitment to shed some lbs.

I started in December 2012 and as of my last weigh in a few weeks ago had dropped 11 lbs, 3% body fat, and regained my jaw line lol. Operation "save my face" has been a success thus far!

Some of the key elements I introduced to aid in my journey:

1) Personal Trainer
2) Heart Rate Monitor
3) My Fitness Pal app

I'll be doing a few blog posts and probably 1-2 YouTube videos detailing my progress and experiences thus far! Everyone wants to get on their "Kanye workout plan" for the summer, but what about having something well rounded for the entire year? I mean, Chicagoans especially tend to give ourselves a pass at gaining during the winter and then working like slaves to get ready for the few months we have to frolic during the summer. None of that equals a healthy lifestyle.

Have you introduced any new things into your diet/fitness routine?

Sushi and Champagne

Since revamping my diet I had not eaten out. A friends birthday was approaching and I was interested in seeing if I could rise to the occasion. My goal? Find a healthy way to enjoy my food, drinks and girlfriends without throwing my diet out of the window. I guess I shouldn't call it a "diet" because it's more of a permanent lifestyle change (not some get thin quick thing), but a "diet" in the sense of meaning "the food I eat".

Anyways, we headed to Stingray Sushi and my spirits were high because sushi is relatively healthy. AZ summer nights are still pretty hot (averaging in the 90s) so I was armed with my 1L bottle of Smart Water (a great way to stay hydrated, a bottle of water before you go out is highly recommended so you don't use alcohol to quench your thirst). I ordered my favorite Philly Roll (319 calories) and a mimosa (75 calories) and guess what? That was it!

I managed to have an enjoyable night out for less than 400 calories. I even shocked myself.

For anyone in the process of changing their eating habits, stay encouraged that you can still maintain your social life and keep your waistline in check.

Getting Started...

I was craving all sorts of delectible chocolate treats last night so instead of giving in to my deepest, sugar filled desires I went to LA Fitness to work out! After running for about 35 minutes and doing weights I felt great! I finished my night with a home made salad and bottled water! Though it was nice to get on the right track, I have to admit that I still craved chocolate treats! lol...

Regardless of the snack attacks I have I'm going to stick to living a healthier lifestyle. For breakfast I declined the greasy, breakfast sandwiches Justin was offering...and opted to make toast, egg whites and 2 slices of bacon...little peices of bacon! lol...I'm not ready to give up pork...so I'll cut back! Maybe I should consider turkey bacon...mmmmm...that's a thought!

So, here are my official stats:

Date: 9-6-08
Weight: 149 lbs
Waist: 29.75 inches
Hips: 40.25 inches
Right Thigh: 24 inches
Left Thigh: 24 inches
Chest: 38 inches