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. 

Day 10: Push it!

            There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle.
The other is as though everything is a miracle.

- Albert Einstein

             I still made it to Bootcamp class despite the heavy rain today.  The upper body exercises were challenging but felt invigorating in the end.  I like the push-up variations (did I really just say that?!) and the exercises focusing on biceps/triceps. 

I love learning about proper form and targeted areas in class.  The demonstration was a great way for me to pay more attention about my posture (instead of the reps) while doing the push-ups.  I lost count of the number of reps I did since I was focused on form but I know that I did more than usual with the right alignment.  The bands were great for muscles too.  I can see little bumps that were never visible before. 

Now that would be a miracle if end up with muscles and learn how to cook by the end of the challenge.  Since I still believe in miracles, I know that it is possible with persistence, practice, and determination. 

Day 9: Back to Class

The KZX Bootcamp Challenge is the first time I ever really pushed myself to physically do more than I can.  After running the Army 10-mile run for three consecutive years without any training in the past, I’m aware that I’m physically strong and capable of doing more.  I’m constantly learning about how much my body can take by exerting a little more effort each time.  Perhaps, I just didn’t have the courage and motivation to find out just how far I can go until now. 

After Kazaxe class

  I decided to attend the Kazaxe class for my morning workout today.  Oh, it was so much fun! I still enjoyed all the dance moves and sweat out a lot.  Maia even encouraged me to go up on-stage, which I did, but felt a bit conscious.  Nonetheless, it was a great experience for just one segment. 

I was excited to go back to the bootcamp class today too especially since my body was well-rested after several days.  I suppose my body has gotten used to the rigorous work-outs so after a while, I crave for it no matter how intense it may be at times.  Instead of just raising up my heels on some exercises, I took it a step further by jumping up and surprised that I could do it.  Those breakthrough moments just make me want to try even harder next time.  

It was also really nice to see everyone with so much motivation in class.  Even though we may be at different stages with various strengths/weaknesses, we are all working towards fulfilling our visions by overcoming  the obstacles along the way.  With the support of the Bootcamp Coaches, we’ve already made some very positive changes, all of which will help us get through the 60-day challenge and beyond... 

Day 8: Family Holiday Meals



Holiday meal with the family

I love having a big family especially when we have the Labor Day Barbecue at my mom’s home.  She prepared salmon with veggies, my brothers grilled baby back ribs and steak, my sister prepared banana nut bread, and my youngest sister prepared lumpia and fresh mango salsa.  Then they asked, “What’s your contribution?”  I thought for a moment and replied, “I chilled the beverage!”  I’m different from them like that, and fortunately, they still love me.

Everything was delicious but I only opted to eat two strips of the baby back ribs, lumpia, salmon with savory veggies, mango salsa, rice, and mango mochi.  I didn’t go back for seconds either. 



Sweating out to Pilates & Yoga Blend

I did the “Crunch Super Slimdown:  Pilates & Yoga Blend” in the evening.  I worked on my core for 45 minutes by following the more challenging positions; thus, making me sweat a lot.  My body felt great after completing the workout. 

So far, I’ve worked out every day (sometimes even twice a day) since the bootcamp challenge started.  I feel better and empowered every day.  Others have also commented how happy I am with my progress and development on my physical fitness! 

Day 7: My "Pouch"

            Since I had an emergency C-section when my son was born 9 years ago, things have never been the same especially since I gained a whopping 50 pounds during my pregnancy (20 pounds of which I still have today).  Though I joke about my fondly called “pouch,” I don’t regret it because it is a reminder that I nurtured the biggest blessing in my life before he was even born. To keep things in perspective, I always tell him, “Thank you for being in my life.  I love you.” 

            I know that I have to work extra hard on my abs to strengthen and tighten my muscles in that area.  It wasn’t until recently that I noticed a change on my pouch.  My dresses no longer look as bulgy in the front and I’m rejoicing over it no matter how slight the difference may be.  I struggle with the belly/abs work-out the most but I’ve been able to do more in the past week with the help of the coaches who give that extra push and encouragement.         

Much needed
Tummy Trimmers

            Today, I decided to do 40 minutes of abs work-out at home.  Nobody instructed me to do it and nobody was there to see me but I did it for myself.  They were still hard for me but I noticed an improvement on my strength level.  I did 10 minutes of the standing abs, 10 minutes of the core abs, 10 minutes of the boot camp abs, and 10 minutes on the stability ball.  I kept envisioning a tighter and stronger mid-section while working out.   

            As for nutrition, I’ve been keeping within the 1200 calories count through portion control.  I successfully prepared breakfast again this morning – hard boiled eggs and a banana.  For lunch, I had chicken and spinach manicotta.  For dinner, my mom prepared something yummy - ground beef mixed with minced potatoes and rice.  However, I found it hard to drink 8 glasses of water when I’m not in the office because it throws off my entire schedule. 

            I learned that part of the battle is knowing what works and what doesn’t work for me.  My body is finally accustomed to working out every day so the challenges will come from variety and intensity, and that’s exactly why KZX Bootcamp is great for me!  I’m still learning about nutrition every day but I know that I will get better as time goes by, hopefully before my son goes to college.     

Day 6: Keep Moving



Presentation counts too : )

     Yay! I successfully prepared breakfast without burning it.  I had 2 hard boiled eggs and  fresh strawberries.  Most of you are probably wondering how anyone could screw up hard boiled eggs but a cooking novice (may even be an overstatement for my level) like me has   burnt  it  before  because  I apparently didn't put enough water.  For a moment, my kitchen became a  battle zone with shells flying everywhere while I used the pot cover as a shield.  True story.  Thankfully, I've learned from experience and it has never happened again. 

     I did the Bar Method DVD for 45 minutes in the morning and then did the Latin Cardio Dance for an hour in the evening.  I liked exercises focusing on the legs and butt in the Bar Method DVD.  I didn't break a sweat until 25 minutes into the cardio dance but I thought the 15 min toning segment was good.  My body feels great after working out!

      My action plan is to make time to workout everyday until we go back to Bootcamp on Tuesday.  It doesn't matter if I do something high-intensity or low-intensity as long as I do something good for my body.  I also would like to try cooking more.  Keeping my visions in mind, taking it one day at a time, and always grateful!

PM Workout: Dancing with
the Stars Latin Cardio Dance

 

AM Workout:  Bar Method







Day 5: Celebrations and Cheerleaders

The Respicio Family celebrating
mama's birthday

         I spent most of my day by recovering and giving my body a rest especially since I feel like I'm coming down with a cold/head sinus.  Must start taking shakeology or vitamins everyday to strengthen my immune system.  I didn't eat much for breakfast and lunch - only 527 calories combined.  It was probably a good thing since it was my mom's birthday and we had a family dinner at Maggiano's.
         Our family gatherings/celebrations almost always involve eating (as illustrated by most of our photos in restaurants or at home) so I was conscious about the food portions.  I had 2 slices of bread dipped in olive oil; small portions of salad, calamari, stuffed mushroom (my fave tonight), chicken & spinach manicotti, sausage; and a half slice of lemon cake. 


After the Hard Body
Bootcamp for the Dallas
Cowboys Cheerleaders



          Dinner was delicious but I didn't want to blow off everything I've worked hard for this week so I decided to workout when we got home.  I figured it's better to do anything rather than nothing at all.  Every move counts.  To make things interesting, I chose to do the "Hard Body Bootcamp" for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.  Yes, you read it right.  Once in a while, my curiosity gets the best of me and I end up doing something amusing.
         Well, if you've survived week 1 of bootcamp (which all of us did!), I guarantee that you can do the cheerleaders' bootcamp without a problem.  I did 30 minutes of the lower body/upper body/core, 10 minutes of abs, and another 10 minutes of arms.  I did the arms section with 2 lbs weights.  The abs workout was the most helpful and challenging part for me.  I think I'll do that section again during the week.
          I'm still learning a lot about proper nutrition but at least I like exercising now.  Looking forward to working out again tomorrow to burn off more calories : )
           

Day 4: Empowered and terrific after the 1st week

        I was off from work today but hardly felt like it since I was always on the go.   Nevertheless, I made it a priority to make time for a morning workout. I attended the KZX Yoga class for the first time and felt good about surprising my body with another type of exercise.  I didn't have to consume as much water as I usually do but some of those yoga poses definitely made me sweat.

Bootcamp at home:
Moving fast to get my heart rate up

         It's somewhat strange to me that I haven't been too concerned about the amount of weight I'm losing.  I do it now primarily because it makes me feel better.  I even did all of the bootcamp exercises that Maia listed for me to do at home so that I can complete the 4 days of bootcamp this week.  I may have pushed myself too hard when my son  remarked how worried he was about my breathing so I took it down a notch.  It was more difficult to do since I was a bit sore from doing bootcamp in 4 consecutive days but I feel empowered and terrific for getting through the first week!
          Actually, a friend whom I haven't seen nor talked to since July saw me at my son's school Open House this afternoon.  She looked at me from head to toe and said, "You're looking slim!"  I thanked her kind words and said that I'm working hard on it. 
          I'm looking forward to working out again tomorrow.  It still amazes me that I can say that now.  I used to drag myself to the gym and bribed myself with cute matching workout outfits (that's not such a bad reward, right?) but now, I do it with a smile.

Day 3: Cooking and Core Challenges

Oatmeal - what's left of it anyway

     One of my goals for the Bootcamp Challenge is to eat healthier and include more veggies to my meals.  I'm unfortunately cooking-impaired.  It's not because I don't try.  I actually try but it just doesn't turn out right.  I couldn't even prepare my oatmeal correctly this morning and that's with the use of a microwave! It kept overflowing so I only had half of what I was supposed to have. I've known all along that this is something I had to work on. I hope that I'll learn to cook healthier meals through my coaches' suggestions and with the help of an easy-to-use technology.    
     As for today's bootcamp class, I enjoyed the cardio burst, leg exercises (my fave), and yoga stretching. Sweat kept dripping on my mat just ten minutes after we started. I'm also really glad that we focused on the core area in various ways since it is my biggest problem. I should really do more of the core exercises everyday (even for just 10 minutes in the morning) to gain strength.
     Through it all, I'm grateful for having the chance to improve my health/physical fitness today with the help of the Bootcamp coaches who keep encouraging us, the smiling faces from everyone who is in the same journey with me right now, and the positive words from family and friends.  Thank you, and have a well-deserved good night rest!