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!”