Walking in the gym to meet up with my trainer, Terry.
I’ve never been a gym bunny... the idea of going to a building everyday to sweat and grunt while lifting weights has never appealed to me. And until recently, I felt fine getting the occasional walk in and controlling me weight through dieting. My 50’s changed that though. Gone are the days of starving before a big event, and my energy levels are lower and sits harder to loose weight now. Frustrated, I finally decided to enlist some professional help, and got the number of my hairstylists trainer. Uncertain and a little intimidated, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I called and set up an appointment. I met Terry the next morning, and boy was I impressed! Terry has been training Army Rangers and bodybuilding for the last ten years, and teaches nutrition classes as well. Did I mention she is 75 and looks 35?!?! After our first meeting, I was so excited to get started and share my journey into this uncharted territory... We have been working together a short while and I love it! Here is what I’ve learned so far.
Photo op with the punching bag
“Diets” and miracle weight loss don’t work. Or, they work by forcing you to starve yourself. You lose some weight early on, but you gain it back once you quit “dieting”. Not to mention that you feel terrible while on them; you’re hungry, you have no energy and you feel like crap! I’ve tried every new diet and fad, and it’s all the same. Promises that do not follow through. Just like all things in life, if it seems too good to be true, it likely is. Diet pills, weight loss wraps, cavitation, sweat saunas, you name it, I’ve tried it. As it turns out, the only way to lose weight and feel great is through healthy lifestyle diet changes (Not starvation “Diets”) and exercise!
Exercise and weight lifting is actually fun! Who knew I could be having such a good time in he gym! Having a trainer has made a big difference, she keeps me focused and motivated, but I also enjoy learning about my body and how to use it differently. I feel like I’m meeting a friend every morning and actually look forward to my workots. Terry watches my form and encourages me to push through any discomfort. We are weight training 5 days a week and I’m walking in the afternoons for cardio. Already I’ve noticed changes in my body, but Terry reminds me that changes are gradual, and that putting in the time is essential. No magic pill or secrets, consistently making smart food and exercise choices is the only way!
Everything I thought I knew about Diets was wrong. The secret to a beautiful body is not by starving yourself! When you’re working out, especially weight training, you have to eat. I’m wearing allot more protein to feed my muscles, I’ve eliminated simple carbohydrates (no sugar or starch) and I keep my fat intake low. I’m cooking and meal prepping now, and I’m not going hungry! The meal plan is simple: I don’t eat processed food, and I focus on eating protein (lots of chicken) and vegetables. This way, I have fuel for my bodies needs, and I’m not spending time counting calories or points, and I feel great!
I’m just getting started 0n my fitness journey, and I’ll be keeping you updated with my progress as well as any frustrations and challenges I encounter. I’m approaching this with a new mindset, and I’m excited for results unlike those I’ve had in the past. Check back here for updates and details on my diet and workout regime, as well as more videos of Terry and myself working up a sweat! Comment below on your own health challenges and successes.
xoxo
BB