Day 47: Newfound Cooking Skills

Penang Curry with Shrimp and Veggies

          I walked for a mile during my break and then I decided to cook a Thai dish for the first time.  I love Thai food so I’m really excited about trying to recreate my favorite dish with shrimps.  It was surprisingly simple to do.  I just followed the instructions from the curry sauce and then added shrimps, vegetables, and spices. 

Looking back, my previous lack of cooking skills had to do with my comfort level in the kitchen.  I also didn’t pay attention how much processed foods or fast foods affected my nutrition and health.  Now I can say that awareness and knowledge are powerful tools upon changing my lifestyle.  I just had to see how others do it and then tried them out myself.

I wouldn’t have gotten to this point without the help of the coaches and other bootcamp testgroup members who openly share their healthy habits.  I’m grateful for all of those and I’m looking forward to utilizing my newfound cooking skills.

Day 46: What Challenges Do



Yoga



            I enjoyed the yoga class which I attended during my lunch break today.  I got very good stretches all over my body and the instructor was a lot better than the last one.  I’m also beginning to feel more comfortable with using blocks and stretch band.  I think yoga complements well with the bootcamp class.  It’s relaxing and engages my mind as well.

            Total Body Thursdays at KZX bootcamp is always challenging but I actually like it.  Yes, apparently, I’m a glutton for punishment.  Then again, the challenges build me to be a stronger and better person. 

I think it’s amazing how far everyone in the test group has achieved thus far.  Each of us has been working very hard towards achieving our goals one day at a time.  The encouragement and support from the coaches and one another keep us strong especially when we face obstacles along the way.     

Day 45: Highest Potential

“The potential of the average person is like a huge ocean unsailed,
a new continent unexplored, a world of possibilities waiting to be
released and channeled toward some great good.”
-Brian Tracy

            I actually like doing the lower body exercises in Bootcamp.  I knew that my legs are the strongest parts of my body but it was through the exercises in bootcamp class which has pushed me to aim for my highest potential by reaching beyond my comfort zone.  It helps that Maia is always asking how much more we can do, ie kick faster or higher, as we move up to the next level.  I may feel sore the next day but I know that I’ve given it my best shot. As the days go on, I keep in mind the things I’ve learned and apply it to the way I work in the future.  Each day gives me an opportunity to start anew and reach for the stars.

Day 44: Arms and Running

Running around DC

        I ran/walked 2.5 miles around the Ellipse today.  Apparently, it was also the same day that the First Lady, joined by 400 students, attempted to break the World Record for the most number of jumping jacks within a time limit.  There's always something interesting going on around the nation's capital so a couple of miles go faster than doing it in the treadmill.
        We focused on the arms by using the bands during the bootcamp class today.  It's exciting to see the little bumps popping up from my arms.  I love learning how to use the bands in class.  It's a great way to exercise at home without the weights.
             I reviewed my food journal today and it looks like I'm eating too much carbs.  I'm concerned that I had over 1600 calories but fortunately off-set by working out twice today.  I'm still trying to figure out what's going on with my body and why I'm eating more all of a sudden.  I will be more conscious about what I eat, how my body feels, and continue working on my goals which I set this week. Today is done but I can always start positively tomorrow.

Day 43: Following the great explorer

"By prevailing over all obstacles and distractions,
one may unfailingly arrive at his chosen goal or destination."
- Christopher Columbus



Look what I cooked!



          It was nice to have the day off today.  As the great discoverer said, one may unfailingly arrive at this chosen goal by overcoming all obstacles or distractions.  Just imagine where we would be today if he wasn't courageous enough to explore beyond the unchartered territories.

         I went to the Kazaxe class in the morning and enjoyed dancing what my mama gave me!  It's the most fun way to burn calories.  There was even a pregnant lady in the class and overheard her comment that it didn't feel like working out at all. 

        I also decided to make salmon with sweet and spicy salsa, white rice, and baby brussel sprouts for lunch and dinner.  I was so excited that it turned out yummy.  I'm getting better at cooking and incorporating veggies to my meals.

        The bootcamp class was difficult but Maia kept pushing us through.  My knees were bothering me for some reason today.  I may have to get new shoes since I've been wearing a rather old pair of running shoes. 
        We also had our two week weigh-in today.  My weight and the measurement of most of my body parts remained the same from the last weigh-in.  Talking to the coaches reminded me not to focus on the figures because there are a lot of other factors which are more important to think about.  Actually, I'm happy as long as there wasn't any significant weight gain.  So far, I've lost 2" on my waist which makes me very happy!

         Aside from the bootcamp classes four times a week, my goals this week are:  to continue running or doing yoga three times a week, healthy cooking three times this week, noting my food journal on My fitness pal again, and reducing the everyday stress level by preparing ahead of time.           

Day 42: Walking around Georgetown

             After taking time to rest on Friday and festivities on Saturday, my family and I walked around Georgetown to enjoy the beautiful weather today.  We walked for an hour by the Harbor and the shops.  I see how hard it is to find the time to work-out when there are a lot of events and activities so I have to schedule it or creatively find a way to make the simple things we do as a work-out.
            I do realize that I need to work-out harder this week to burn off the calories which I gained from the family gatherings this weekend.  For some reason, I've been eating more than what I'm used to since I started the challenge.  I have been able to do the 1200 calories a day but in the last couple of days, I've been consuming 200-400 more calories.  I wonder if my body is craving for more due to stress or just craving for more food due to the recent adjustments with my body.  As Maia suggested, I have to listen to my body.
                  

Day 41: Fun

Day 39: Yoga and Bootcamp




Yoga

           I went to the lunch time yoga class for an hour today.  It was good but I wasn't accustomed to the instructor's teaching style.  He kept mentioning yoga terms which I've never heard of and he kept using the kidney as the point of reference to do a certain pose.  Honestly, I know it's near my stomach but I don't exactly know where it is especially if I have to think about what side my arms and legs should be.  I still got good stretches and it was a great way to surprise my body with another form of exercise.  The instructor at least walked around to correct body postures once in a while.
         The total body workout at bootcamp was quite a challenge but I still made it through the entire thing.  The high intensity training surely works every part of my body and wakes up muscles I never knew I had. Those burpies kill me each time but I do what I can.  If not for bootcamp, I don't think I would have tried a lot of the exercises on my own.  The 10 minutes of yoga that Maia did at the end felt so good to stretch out the muscles we've been using!

Day 40: Rest

Day 38: Bootcamp 1st Year Anniversary

Sharing what KZX Bootcamp means to me...

           My KZX Bootcamp experience has been a surprisingly wonderful journey thus far! Before signing up for the 60-day challenge, I thought bootcamp was only for the hardcore bodybuilding fanatics or those who are already in great shape. Boy, was I wrong, and I’ve never been happier about it. I signed up for the 60-day challenge for several reasons but mostly to be the healthiest that I can be in order to be a good role model for my son and others.
          I was nervous about going to class during the first week and didn’t really know what to expect. With Maia and the coaches’ encouragement and support every class, I have been able to do some things I never thought I could do physically and mentally. Just by going to Bootcamp class four times a week, running three times a week, and eating healthier, I’ve seen significant improvements that probably would have taken me six times longer if I didn’t join the program. I’ve lost weight, greatly reduced the belly fat from pregnancy, gained some muscles (ever-so-slightly) I’ve never had before, ate healthier meals, and learned how to cook within over a month.
          My family, friends, and co-workers have been complimenting me on such tremendous developments I’ve made thus far. I still have more to work on but I feel great about making lifestyle changes which were prompted by the Bootcamp Challenge! I consider it to be one of the greatest and most meaningful challenges I’ve ever taken.
          Without the KZX Bootcamp, I wouldn’t have pushed myself to do more physically nor would I have discovered just how strong I really am. I’m that much closer to reaching my goals, some of which others may say are just too lofty. Then again, bootcamp has proven to me that anything is possible with dedication, hard work, persistence, and faith.
            I’m grateful for having the opportunity to be a part of this journey with such great and inspiring group of individuals. Thank you wholeheartedly for everything that you all do to change lives by empowering everyone to find inner and outer strength.

Day 37: Legs



Running around the WH Ellipse

           I ran during lunch today and felt really good about it.  It's the perfect way for me to break away from work demands and spend my break productively.  I'm proud to say that it has been one of the good habits which I picked up again as a result of this challenge.  I also did more leg work at the Bootcamp class when we focused on plyo lyegs.  Those exercises burn my legs but I like how they push me to do more than I thought I could do.            I observed that I'm developing better physical and nutritional habits since I started.  I'm aware that I may not always see the immediate results outside but I'm certain that my internal body parts are functioning better.
          There are times when I feel guilty for taking time for myself instead of focusing that time with my son but I have to get past that.  I'm doing something positive for myself and ultimately for him as well.  I'm lessening the health risks associated with being overweight.  I'm developing a better lifestyle for both of us, and this is another example I can share with him that anything is possible if you put your heart and mind into it.  

Day 36: Why am I doing this?

          After being together on this journey with Bootcamp Testgroup members for over five weeks, we've all bonded and gotten to know each other a bit better.  Today, we found out each other's main reasons for doing this.  Ultimately, we are altogether on this fitness journey and support each other's goals.
          Listening to other members share why they are doing this was a very powerful and meaningful experience.  We are doing this not just for aesthetic reasons but more importantly, to make important lifestyle changes.  Throwing away our list of excuses was a symbolic way of getting rid of the reasons which may prevent us from reaching our goals.
          It was a great way for me to re-evaluate my goals and why I wanted to do it in the first place.  It was also a time to evaluate my accomplishments since the day I signed up.  I celebrate over the healthier lifestyle changes at this point, friendships which I've gained from this journey, inspiration from the coaches, and the courage to do some things I never would have done. 

Day 35: Small Miracle

Teriyaki salmon and veggies

         I went to the grocery store and planned our meals for the upcoming week.  I decided to cook one of my favorite foods for dinner.  I cooked salmon marinated with paradise pineapple teriyaki and veggies for dinner.  It turned out well and I even packed the left-over foods for my lunch tomorrow.  I previously said that I would consider it a miracle if I learn how to cook during the 60 day challenge. To me, this is a small miracle worth celebrating since I never thought it would be possible.  Oh the things we can do if we just try! 

Day 34: Stepping Outside my Comfort Zone

           With the cold and rainy weather, I decided to get some rest today.  I have so many things to catch up on at home so it was a good day to stay in.  As I was organizing my closet, however, my box of Halloween costumes caught my eye and figured it’s time to start planning my outfit this year.  I bought Padme Amidala’s white midriff and pants costume last year but never felt comfortable in it.  I wore it once and covered up with a long sweater so it wasn’t noticeable at all.  I wanted to wear the costume to a couple of events since then but still didn’t feel comfortable especially since the costume was made out of thin materials.

           When I tried it on today, I was THRILLED to find out that I finally feel comfortable with the way it fits!  It seemed like I just won the lottery as I ran and shared the good news with my son.  Oh, the little things that make me happy : )  I plan to wear it at the Air & Space Halloween event since they will feature Star Wars characters.  My son can pick one of his several Star Wars costume so we can go together as a team.           

Bison and veggies for lunch

I was inspired to take another challenge - cooking bison patties and veggies for lunch.  The bison patties turned out perfectly (by my standards anyway).  My son enjoyed the fuller and sweeter taste than the regular beef burger.  Who knew I’d ever be able to get to this stage?  I was surprised how easy it was to cook this time around.  Just like with everything else, I have to start slowly but surely and then add other things as I get comfortable.  I love how the 60-day challenge has inspired me to step outside my comfort zone in many aspects of my life!

Day 33: Changing attitude towards physical fitness

Running along the
Washington Monument

I’ve been consistently running on Tuesday, Wednesday/Thursday, and Friday during the week.  I feel lighter and stronger than I ever did in a long while.  Of course, there are still days when I feel sluggish but I get through it by routinely packing up my gym clothes and then just doing it.  I noticed that I also developed a stronger stamina.  When we’re doing the warm-up exercises, I actually like the jump and alternate touches.  Wow!  It’s amazing how much bootcamp has changed my attitude towards physical fitness.

As the weekend draws near and I review my goals, I’ve been able to fulfill my physical fitness goals this week.  I’ve been eating well during the week but haven’t gotten the chance to practice cooking.  I have to do it this weekend and also find time to do more home organization.  Little changes are better than not having any changes at all. 

Day 32: Warrior Workout

            I ran 2.5 miles during lunch today even though my knees and shins were a bit sore from bootcamp class last night.  Nonetheless, I always feel much better after working out.  I didn’t realize how nice it is to run outdoors during the Fall season.  I love how the cold breeze feels against my skin. 

            The Warrior Workout at Bootcamp was very challenging but it was fun to do with a partner.  I love the intensity and creativity incorporated with our exercises.  Never a dull moment in bootcamp class!  I’m surprised at how many push-up variations I can do and how long I can last on the exercises involving the core area at this point.

            I can’t believe that we’re beyond the halfway point of the bootcamp challenge.  Every class has been challenging but we all strive to do our best.  In a way, we are all warriors!     

Perfect Fall weather to run outdoors

Day 31: Lower Body Burn

            It’s difficult for me to work on the core and belly areas and yet, I like it when I’m forced to do them in bootcamp class.  With so many variations, I’m bound to make a dent in my problem areas.  I think the butt and leg exercises are my faves.  The lower part of my body burned in a good kind of way during class. 

            As for nutrition, I unfortunately haven’t had the chance to cook this week because I’ve been pre-occupied and distressed about other issues which recently arose.  I understand that I have to prioritize what’s important at the moment and I just have to do what I can in other areas which need attention but I get incredibly overwhelmed at times.  When I dedicate a lot of time on one area, something else seems to go haywire.  Even then, I believe that this is just another obstacle to overcome.  Life is not always easy but I will still go on with a smile and trust that everything will work out well in the end.  

Day 30: Loving it!

Love running!

           I love running in this cool crisp autumn weather!  I ran around my usual route and felt more energized to continue the rest of the day.  I’m really glad that I can use my lunch hour to take time for myself to work out.  I wouldn’t be able to do this year round due to the nature of my job so I wanted to make the most out of this opportunity. 

Physical fitness has moved up to my priority list and my friends undoubtedly observed it.  I look back from my younger years and never worked out as much as I recently have.  I think the most I’ve previously done was three to four times of running during the week.  Now it has increased to five to six times a week. 

            I enjoyed the bootcamp class once again.  Sometimes I have a hard time as the levels progress but I still keep trying with the necessary modifications.  When I’m surrounded by others who are obviously pushing themselves, I can’t help but push myself hard as well.  I can do a little bit of the full body push-ups now. Who knew I’d ever get there?!  Life sure is full of surprises and I eventually learn to embrace the challenges wholeheartedly.                    

Day 29: Measurement and Fit Test

"Health and cheerfulness naturally beget each other."

- Joseph Addison

          I lost two pounds and gained or lost inches on my arms, bust, waist, hips, and legs since the last measurement date two weeks ago.  I don’t weigh myself unless necessary because I don’t think that it is an accurate way of evaluating one’s health.  For instance, I may be short but I get additional boost from my high heels; thus, appearing to be more proportionate in height and weight. 

Although I was satisfied with the weight loss, I couldn’t explain the gain/loss on my body parts.  I just tried to forget about them and decided to base my developments with how I feel, the way my clothes fit, and what I see in the mirror.  I feel better regarding my nutrition since I’m conscious about the portion, ingredients, or the amount of calories on what I eat.  I’m accustomed to eating 3 meals and 2 snacks now.  My clothes fit better and the most noticeable difference is on my belly.  It’s still there but this has been the biggest change I’ve seen after having a baby.  Looking at my fit test results tonight proved that my strength and endurance also improved. 

I will continue to work on my goals until I reach them.  Some days have been tough to get through but I still worked on my physical fitness and nutrition no matter what I dealt with.  So far, I’m joyful about sticking with the program and successfully making important lifestyle changes.   

Day 28: Cooking Tutorial

           I’m so grateful that Maia and the coaches incorporated a Cooking Tutorial to the 60-day challenge!  Whenever I tell others about the benefits and extra help I’m getting from this challenge, they can’t seem to believe how much more guidance I’m getting than just a personal trainer at the gym. 

            I’ve never really spent significant time into cooking and kitchen stuff except color coordinating my small appliances for my own place.  I’m a visual learner so it was very helpful for me to see how others work around the kitchen and prepare food.  A lot of the dishes took less than half an hour to cook which is ideal for someone like me who’s always on the go. 

It may take time and trial and error before I figure things around the kitchen but at least I’ve gained enough courage to start it.  My nutrition goals this week are to incorporate more veggies to my meals and cook two to three times a week.  I’m excited about taking another step towards a healthier lifestyle!               

Day 27: Fun

Day 26: Megaxe

Running/walking
during my break



Megaxe

 If you have much, give of your wealth;

if you have little, give of your heart.

~Arabian Proverb

            One of the things I absolutely love about Kazaxe is the charity event.  My parents instilled to my siblings and I that giving back to the community is an important part of life.  I live by my parents’ example so much so that I would ask about the firm’s community service involvement on job interviews.  I think it says a lot about the organization. 

            Attending this month’s Megaxe for the orphanage in El Salvador was a lot of fun!  It was nice to see everyone dancing in cute outfits.  What made that evening even more remarkable are the vibrant energy and camaraderie amongst everyone united together for a great cause!



Day 25: Power of a Smile

“A warm smile is the universal language of kindness.”

-          W. A. Ward

Running around
Washington Monument

I ran 2.5 miles during my break and felt terrific.  Asking someone to take a photo of me while running has been a fun part of my routine!  It’s like a social experiment which makes running around the nation’s capital even more interesting.  I found that others willingly oblige to assist when I approach them with a smile and friendly voice.  Such is the power of smile!    

I also checked out the Farmer’s Market near my office before going to Bootcamp class.  I was excited about getting fresh produce.  I looked like I actually know what to do with them.  I got peaches and sweet potatoes for my snacks in the office.  The stand selling chicken and bison from an Amish farm caught my attention.  My co-worker told me that it’s better to get it there than the grocery store since they have more natural ingredients.  I plan to get it next week and try to see what I can come up with.

            I thought the team meeting also turned out well.  Maia is surely a great instructor and coach.  She knows exactly how to encourage and inspire everyone individually and as a team.  Once again, I was reminded of my goals and vision when I signed up to do this.  It doesn’t matter what the numbers say.  Ultimately, what matters most is how much I’ve improved to be healthier physically, mentally, and emotionally within a short period of time, and that’s something that nobody can measure in numbers.

Day 24: Anyone can do it!

You will turn over many a futile new leaf till you learn
we must all write on scratched-out pages.  ~Mignon McLaughlin, The Neurotic's Notebook, 1960

The Bootcamp class challenges me to keep pushing my body in ways that I never had before.   Working out with a partner was also a fun way to get more engaged and challenged.  Maia’s creativity with the exercises makes working out more interesting!

Honestly, I don’t think anyone, myself included, ever thought that I’d be into Bootcamp.  It’s the last thing anyone would expect from someone like me.  Then again, I tend to do the unexpected.  Others are usually so interested to hear about what I’m doing but once they hear P90X, Insanity, and Brazilian buttlift, they seem to lose interest.  I quickly respond by saying, “if I can do it, anyone can do it!”

Day 23: Running and more



Running around the White House Ellipse

         I ran 2.5 miles during my break while it was slightly raining.  As I started running, two of the partners (carrying big huge umbrellas) whom I work with caught my attention and acknowledged me with a big smile.  I didn't really think about the way I look in my fitness gear when I walked out of the office.  As far as I know, working out makes me feel good and that matters a lot more.  I was energized and ready to workout more at the bootcamp class in the evening! 
         Other people whom I work with noticed that I look more toned and my dresses fit better.  I also talked to others about how they incorporate veggies to their meals.  They offered great and surprisingly easy ways to prepare them.  The more I find out about what works for others, the more I'm interested in exploring exactly what works for me.  I'm looking forward to the discovery process : ) 
         

All smiles after running

Day 22: Another Breakthrough

I am always doing that which I cannot do,

in order that I may learn how to do it. 

~Pablo Picasso            

          I have to say that tonight's class has been the hardest one yet!  I couldn't believe the intensity of the workout tonight.  Even then, I kept pushing myself to do more which led me to almost throw up a couple of times.  That's when I would take it down a notch and slow down.  As I looked around, everyone had flushed faces and drenched shirts but with a whole lot of determination.
             After getting through the tough session today, I was inspired to take on another challenge at home - cooking!  I thought, "If I can handle the arduous physical challenges in class, I can do more in other aspects of my life as well."  I consider it as another breakthrough moment.  I decided to cook encrusted flounder and mixed veggies in the oven.  I added garlic salt for flavor.  After taking a shower, I checked the oven and I was happy that I didn't burn them.  The brocolli had a little bit of burnt side but it was still okay.  It turned out saltier than it should have been so I just scraped off some of the seasoning.  Not bad for my first try.  I'm sure that I'll eventually get it right as I cook more often.  Overall, I feel excited about trying something new! 

            

Day 21: Ready for another week

            “Only as high as I reach can I grow, only as far as I seek can I go,
             only as deep as I look can I see, only as much as I dream can I be.” 

- Karen Ravn

            I did the Super Slimdown Pilates & Yoga Blend work-out at home today.  It was a little easier than the last time I did it but still challenging.  Anything involving my core muscles are harder than other exercises.  I'm getting better at it since we constantly work on it in Bootcamp class.
              I'm still constantly thinking about ways to be better with my nutrition.  Incorporating Shakeology to my everyday routine has been a big help especially when I don't have fruits or veggies handy.  I've also gotten used to drinking a lot of water during the day which has eliminated my craving for soda.  This is actually a huge feat for me because it was previously my caffeine source in the middle of the day.                    
             As we enter the 4th week of the Bootcamp challenge, I will continue to keep my goals in mind.  I want to focus on proper form and pushing myself more in Bootcamp class; run three times this week; and cook a healthy meal twice this week.  I'm looking forward to continuing the fitness journey until I reach my goals!

Working out at home

Day 20: Fun

Day 19: My Driving Force

         I felt unusual aches and pains from the work-out last night so I decided to rest today.  As I reflect upon my KZX bootcamp experience thus far, I feel grateful for having the chance to be a part of such a unique group of individuals working towards better health and fitness.  We may have different challenges but we all support each other to reach our goals.
         One thing I've learned about myself from this challenge and previous fitness challenges is my commitment to finish it until the end.  Everytime I attend Bootcamp or Kazaxe, my goal is to finish it without giving up midpoint.  I take breaks but then push myself harder when I get back into it.
          I've always had the will to finish what I signed up for.  I recall the last 10-mile run I did a few years ago.  My siblings' goals were to beat their personal record or each other's time.  Mine was simply to finish the course without getting picked up by the bus.  I had already passed the 8-mile mark when I noticed the bus slowly trailing behind me.  I pushed myself to run faster even if I was exhausted.  After a few minutes, I realized that I beat the cut-off time so I swiftly moved on the other lane.  Everyone in the bus probably got a kick out of it as I ran faster.
          In Bootcamp, Maia and the other coaches have been my "bus" or my driving force.  They motivate me to keep going until the end.  It's great to have an instructor who pushes me to do more without discouraging me.  I love how encouraging, energetic, and real she is during class! Knowing that I have a strong support group in class makes this fitness journey easier, and one which I'm always grateful for.

Day 18: Total Body

         I had a particularly challenging schedule this week due to family reasons.  On top of that, I wasn't able to get out of work on time and there was a lot of traffic today due to rain so I was very stressed out on my way to class.  Nonetheless, I made the effort to get there as soon as possible.  I missed most of the warm-up exercies but pushed harder during the total body workout.  I thought the exercises today were harder than usual but I made it through.  I always have a nice feeling of accomplishment after each class because I know that I challenged myself to do more than before.

Day 17: Small changes with big results

Things do not change; we change.

- Henry David Thoreau

            I have a better idea about the level of my physical strengths and weaknesses now.  I have strong legs (love the squats) and have no problems pushing myself to do more.  However, I have weak abs and core muscles so I find myself stopping more when it comes to those exercises.  Don’t get me wrong.  I can feel it on my core area when I push harder but I can’t continually do it.  Slowly but surely, I’m tightening and strengthening my core area.

As for nutrition, I haven’t been able to cook anything new this week.  I’ve been relying on Lean Cuisine meals for lunch, grilled chicken when I order dinner, 2 fruits a day, a lot of water, and Shakeology drinks.  I’ve reduced soda intake to once a week and minimal sweets to satisfy my sweet tooth.  Overall, I observed that my body isn’t accustomed to huge meals anymore and I don’t get hungry as often.  I feel better about taking Shakeology since it contains a lot of healthy nutrients.

I’m still on track with exercising, doing what I can to eat healthy (even if I haven’t cooked this week), and purging stuff at home one small pile at a time.  We still have a long way to go but I’m excited that I’m developing better habits through small changes every day.



Day 16: Finding Balance

The best and safest thing is to keep a balance in your life,

acknowledge the great powers around us and in us.

If you can do that, and live that way, you are really a wise man.

-       Euripides

After Running/Walking

I always feel great about running/walking for 2.5 miles during my lunch break.  It gives me a chance to get away from the computer, think about my to-do list or my spiritual journey, and enjoy the nice autumn days.  I had strawberries for snack and drank a lot of water today.  I think I stayed within my calorie count but it’s hard for me to jot down or update My Fitness Pal journal when I have a full schedule like today.

I wasn’t able to make it to the Bootcamp Class tonight due to my son’s Back-to-School night.  I’ve learned a long time ago that balancing the demands of family, work, and personal endeavors would require significant patience and flexibility.  Perhaps my biggest stressor comes from wanting to do it all but I’ve accepted that it isn’t humanly possible.  Time flies quickly so I just make the most out of each moment.  Fortunately, my son and I share a lot of qualities, including the joy of laughter.     

Going to Kazaxe or Bootcamp has also been a wonderful stress-reliever for me.  It’s nice to know that others who are in the same journey are supportive, and the coaches motivate us to do more.  I feel great after each class knowing that I’m working towards renewing myself.   

Day 15: Measurement Day

            I was pumped and ready for another week of KZX Bootcamp when I woke up!  After two full weeks of attending Bootcamp, working out 6 times a week (sometimes even twice a day), I gained ½ a pound but lost inches everywhere – legs, hips, waist, bust, and arms.  I’m happy that I toned up, strengthened my body, and positively changed my mind set about working out.

            The total body workout was an awesome way to start the week.  I also enjoyed working with a partner on some of the exercises.  I noticed that I was very fast on the alternating punches while working on the oblique muscles but I wasn’t very good with knee raises.  She encouraged me to keep up and raise my knees higher.  She also kindly shared her healthy eating habits which gave me a new perspective. 

            I ask around what works for others because I’m still continuing the research stage on nutrition.  I know that I can lose weight by eating certain amount of calories and working out to burn off those calories.  I eat within a certain calorie count but I have trouble eating nutritious food and properly portioned proteins, carbs, and fats.  It’s a learning experience for me, one which I accept with open arms.   

Day 14: Rest

“Success is not a place at which one arrives but rather
the spirit with which one undertakes and continues the journey.”

– Alex Noble

Today was the first day I didn’t work-out since we started the Bootcamp Challenge.  So much for a relaxing Sunday as I rushed on to a Sunday School meeting first thing in the morning.  I also wanted to donate blood but wasn’t able to do so at this time due to iron deficiency.  I have to start eating more veggies and vitamins so that I can do more for myself and help others.  After that, we cleared out my son’s toys so that we can donate them to Salvation Army.  It seems like there’s always so much to do in so little time. 

Sometimes when I get frustrated and overwhelmed, I admit the harsh reality that I can’t do everything by myself.   Thus, I’m always grateful for loved ones who help me out any way they can.  I also know the importance of taking time to rest and just being still.  Towards the end of the day, I caught up reading a couple of fashion and celebrity magazines (one of my guilty pleasures), planned my work and work-out outfits, watched some episodes of my favorite shows, and nurtured my spiritual side today.

I reflected upon how much I’ve accomplished since I signed up for the Bootcamp Challenge and I'm happy that I can do more than I ever thought or tried before.  I’m certain that I’ll encounter everyday challenges (mentally and physically) along the way but I will continue to do my best each day to make it a remarkable and enjoyable  journey : )           

Day 13: Family Fitness



        

Hockey

 

Kazaxe



              My son went to hockey class this morning then spent another 45 minutes on the rink just playing with others in the Capitals Iceplex.  They gave me ice skates as well but I don’t know how to skate so I opted to watch and cheer from the sidelines.  I’m glad that he found a sport that he enjoys.  Most importantly, it’s nice to know that we support each other’s endeavors.  After his skating class, it was my time to work out at Kazaxe class.  I love dancing so I’m delighted to shake it and burn off calories at the same time.  It was so nice to see others from the Bootcamp Challenge too.  You can see everyone’s commitment as we set aside time to work out rather than just lounge around during the weekend.

            I decided to make pasta for lunch and I didn’t burn it!  I successfully made whole wheat penne pasta with sweet tomato basil sauce and turkey meatballs.  My son who dearly encourages me with everything (even with my cooking impairment) actually asked for more.  Either the meal turned out well or he was just really hungry.  Nonetheless, the best part was watching him enjoy the meal.  I just love how he sucked up the pasta sauce creatively.  I will definitely try to incorporate veggies next time as suggested by Maia. 

             We had another family dinner at a Thai restaurant (one of my fave foods) for my brother’s birthday.  Oh, another challenge with food choices!  I tried a little bit of everything but only had small portions.  I know that depriving myself of something will just make me want it even more so I was conscious about the serving and will have to add more time to work-out to burn off the calories.  My son and I decided to play Wii sports when we got home.  He beat me in tennis and boxing while I beat him in bowling. 

         I always keep my visions in mind and do my best to be healthier every day.  Today, we celebrate for prioritizing physical fitness, no burnt food, and an enjoyable evening with the family.  For all of these things and more, I’m always grateful.      



Yummy whole wheat penne pasta



Dinner at a Thai restaurant

Day 12: Just keep running

        How am I going to live today in order to create the tomorrow I'm committed to?
~Anthony Robbins

            My shoulders were a bit achy but I still ran/walked 2.5 miles during lunch today.  I did my usual route around the White House ellipse to avoid the stop lights and crowded side streets.  I feel lighter and stronger when I’m running now.   My body feels great after each work-out.  Sometimes I have a hard time getting up in the morning but as I move around during the day, the aches or pains disapper. 

            I had salad for lunch today but I’m also aware that I still struggle with nutrition and choosing the right foods.  My son and I went to the movies tonight and I had the kid size popcorn and soda in the movie theatre.  I’m happy that physical fitness is now part of my everyday routine but I have to learn to eat smarter.  I know that it a large part of the equation towards losing weight so I have to work harder on it.

            Next week, I would like to continue working out 5-6 times a week; pushing myself to do as much as I can in bootcamp; learning to cook healthy meals; and reduce the clutter at home and in my life.  Taking it one day at a time and knowing that every little thing counts towards reaching my goals.

Day 11: Best of Both Worlds

            "Nothing can stop the man with the right mental attitude from achieving his goal, nothing on earth can help the man with the wrong attitude."

- Thomas Jefferson

Running around
the Smithsonian

             I was so willing to run in the rain today but it stopped raining when I went outside. For my lunch workout, I decided to change my running route a bit by going around the Smithsonian area. It added about .5-.75 miles to my routine and it was more challenging since I’m not keen on running in sandy areas.  It was a nice change of scenery, though.  One of the reasons I like running is to have time to think (when I’m by myself) and enjoy the scenery.  I’m grateful that I have the chance to see the museums and landmark sights in the nation’s capital while I run. 

For the evening workout, I thought the Kazaxe and Bootcamp combination was a fantastic idea!  What a great way to get the best of both worlds.  I had to get use to the transitions but I got the hang of it towards the end.  My goal that evening was to make it through the entire class, which I did.  I can feel that my stamina is getting stronger every day.



All smiles after working out



My family and friends have been complimenting me on my dedication and motivation to be healthier.  One of my co-workers even decided to start working out again after she noticed positive changes from my fitness journey.  I’m happy that I contributed positively towards her health and fitness.  Thus far, I’m enjoying the arduous journey and I’m looking forward to what’s in store ahead.