Ever decide that you just need to go all in? 

I have loved pushing my body over the past 8 months. I have said it a few times before but I really would have LAUGHED at you if you told me a year ago that this is where I would be. 

I was overweight, unhappy, and annoyed with myself. I didn't look it on the outside but so many years of weight gain and weight loss and the never ending cycle were just taking their toll on me. 

Fast forward to now and I am ready to challenge myself again. I want to see what I can handle. I want to do more things and prove to myself that there is no limit I cannot reach.

So... I am going to do the 21 Day Fix Extreme. I have been putting it off because:
1. I like the regular 21DF. It works just fine!
2. I get to drink on that one :) 
3. I am scared. 

That changes today. 

1. There are two big vacations coming up that I want to see where I can push my body to beforehand. I have NEVER been on a vacation and felt confident in a swimsuit. Ever. I would love to have this be the year I change all that. 
2. I have watched my kids learn from my actions. They get excited to see me workout and look forward to it. I want to stay excited for my workouts because it keeps them excited. 
3. I would (secretly) love to do one of the crazy-mud-extreme runs that my husband does.. but want to be in tip top shape first!

So here we go. I have come a long way. Here is my game plan for the next 21 Days:

Food:
I will keep it simple. Lots of chicken breast, ground turkey, broccoli, green beans, salads, and eggs. Fruits would be apple or banana. I typically drink my Shakeology (chocolate!) in the AM but may switch that to dinner if cravings are bad. 

Workouts:
My goal is to move back to morning workouts because I just felt better when I got up and started the morning pushing myself. I do love getting the kids involved so it might end up being a combination. Each workout is only 30 minutes long so it will be easy to adjust based on the day.

Motivation:
I am doing the program with a group of amazing women in my challenge group and we are cheering each other on. I need the support and know that the community is what will make or break me in my times of weakness. If you are thinking of trying the 21 Day Fix or the Extreme and want to join a group (or even if you just have a question) drop me a line in the form below... I would love to have you join one of my groups or just chat! :) 

Fill out my online form.

Use Wufoo templates to make your own HTML forms.

How to Pack for Your Workouts when Traveling... and Actually Do Them!

It can happen. That is the first step. Packing for a business or family trip is stressful enough. Throw in the extra thought of "work out clothes" and it would be easy to give yourself a break from your schedule. 

WRONG - you have worked so hard - and you do not need much! 

1. Assess your trip- Where are you staying? Will you be able to run outside, use the hotel gym, or need to bring your own DVDs? How much time will you have to work out?

2. Check the weather - the goal is to bring as little as possible for working out so that you have more room for all your necessities.

3. Pack all of your favorite outfits! When you are away from your typical routine it turns to a mental game to get your rear in gear and decide to start moving. Having loved outfit that makes you feel great about yourself is that extra kick in the pants to get you going!! 

Two full outfits, sneakers plus my pre-workout take up barely any space!

5. Start stacking! I travel for work a lot. My tried and true method for packing (and not forgetting anything) is to stack everything on the bed before you put anything in a suitcase. Take a deep breath before you begin to put it in your luggage (or maybe pour a glass of wine!). 

I am not pictured, mainly because I am busy pretending like my bag is already packed and someone else will finish this...

What works for me:

• I always bring my laptop so I can workout in the hotel room. This means that if nothing else, I can pop in a quick 30 minute workout and get sweaty before starting the day!
• When I am headed out for just an overnight trip - no need for sneakers! At home, I do not use them (I am always paranoid the jumping will wake up my kids) so it is no big deal to work out barefoot in the hotel room. 
• A sports bra and gym shorts will get you by if nothing else! Oh the benefits!!! 

What do you pack when you head out of town? I do bring more when I know I have enough time to get outdoors and enjoy a new city - I would love to hear what you suggest also!