Monday, April 21, 2008

Commitment should be a 4-letter word

OK, so I have made a commitment to get fit (again). This time I really mean it. Really.

In 2002, I decided to lose weight and get fit for a Carribean cruise with my roommate. I ran about 4-5 days a week and worked out at home (Swiss ball, resistance bands, dumb bells). I also started eating better and decreased my overall caloric intake. The results - tiny string bikini body. Also, overtraining and the inability to overcome even a routine cold. It took me 4 months to get over an upper respiratory virus, and I developed an exercise aversion.

Between 2004-2008 (internship, residency), I have gained about 20lbs. Considering I am 5'0", this is a significant gain. I lived on the "fast food or no food" diet for a while (sleeping 2-3hrs/night is NOT conducive to a healthy lifestyle), and it shows. I don't like my body, and I feel sluggish and blah. So, time for an overhaul.

I pledge to do some kind of cardio workout at least 3 days a week and spend at least 3 hours/week in the gym.

I have a wedding to attend in Hawaii Memorial Day weekend, and I want to be able to wear a bathing suit without being completely self-conscious. Additionally, I have made a pact with an online friend to work out. This isn't as good as having someone to physically go to the gym with, but it's better than nothing. Oh, and we are supposed to show each other our "progress" in less than a month. As he is a straight male, it's very motivating for me. There's nothing like the threat of someone of the opposite sex seeing you (almost) naked to whip you into shape.

My goals:
To lose 15-20lbs. I used to be 98lbs in high school, but that was with NO muscle. I think staying above 105 is a good weight for me at this point in my life. My body tends to hold on to fat stores, particularly in the mid-section. Yes, I have a beer belly without the fun of drinking. And love handles - why do they call them that when no one loves them?

To be able to run a 5K, maybe even a 10K. I hate running, but it was the best in terms of weight loss and CV fitness for me. I tried to train for a half-marathon once, but it was impossible with the residency.

To regain strength and definition. As a 102lb woman, I used to bench press 80-85lbs. Not too bad considering I never lifted before college. I have the type of body that does gain muscle mass and strength rapidly.

To be able to get back into a tiny string bikini without being self-conscious. I mean, I could wear one now, but it wouldn't be pretty!

The main limiting factor in all of this would be food. I LOVE FOOD. I need to get a better handle on my diet. Baby steps, right?

Exercise log: Sunday - walked to the ARC, worked out for an hour, ran 1 mile, then walked the rest of the Arboretum home. Today - knit night, and a day of rest.

Baseline measurements
Bust - 34.5in
Waist (at navel) - 30.5in (!!!)
Hips - 34in
Thigh - 21in
Upper arm - 11.25in
Weight 120lbs

No comments: