Challenge #9: Fine Tuning for Maximum Results

Sometimes I feel my progress isn't going as fast as I'd like. After all, I'm not quite down a full size yet, I still have to suck in my stomach to keep from people asking me when I'm due. But I have lost 13 pounds so far, along with several inches, and my body has undergone some impressive muscle building.

More importantly, I have started a new habit with fitness and diet that I intend to continue for the long-term. That habit still requires upkeep - we won't talk about what I ate yesterday - but a little fine-tuning should help me continue with my progress!

Do you feel like the changes you've made are becoming a habit yet? How do you define your progress?

OK, on to the challenges!

Diet:
Mom always said "Eat your veggies!" and this week we're going to focus on that. Not only are vegetables lower in calories, they're also full of fiber. Filling up on vegetables is a good way to feel full longer without a heavy calorie hit.

Now, for those of you who aren't fond of veggies, I'll add in: I hear ya. Nothing green passed between my lips as a child and teen unless it was lime jell-o. I didn't begin exploring the wonderful world of vegetables until I was in my 20's, and didn't move beyond your basic lettuce and carrots until my late 20's. Look for recipes to make your vegetables more interesting. Add herbs and spices for flavor, and try new ways of cooking them. (My fav? Grilled!)

Fitness:
This week, you're going to get rid of whatever isn't working for you. There's no sense in keeping around fitness ideas, equipment, or videos that are too easy, too hard, or simply don't give you what you need. Sell or give away fitness videos you no longer use. Get rid of that old treadmill that has served duty as a clothing rack only for over a year. Throw out that Ab Rocker that never gave you the promised six-pack.

The same goes for mental issues, too. If you think you need to workout on a empty stomach, yet find it hard to get through a workout, drop that idea and try something new! Review your own beliefs about what you need to do to get fit, and toss the thoughts that don't work for you.

Personal:
Too often we push and push and push ourselves, and forget that our bodies and minds need a break now and then. This week, you get to reward yourself and care for that body and mind of yours. Take time to pamper yourself in some way - go for a new haircut, get a facial, or grab a book you really want to read. You're worth a little pampering, and the time you take for yourself will be refreshing.

A reminder on how to play: choose one challenge from the three listed above, do your best to follow the challenge, and report in at the end of the week. Leave a comment or e-mail me the link to your results post, and I'll link them up in a round-up results post.

Good luck!

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