I have’t been able to do any high impact workouts since I strained my calf on day 8 (jump roping got me!). Last night and today, I did weights, abs and low impact cardio. I still broke a sweat. My calf is still sore, and now the knee on my other leg is starting to get sore from compensating for the other leg. I’m walking with a slight limp, but it feels better today than it did yesterday. Thinking back, I’ve always had issues that would pop up from doing high impact cardio. Previously it was plantar fasciitis, knee pain, etc. I think that was why I ended up shelving the Jillian Michael’s videos previously. Instead started biking, elliptical training, and doing more “gentle” workouts. My favorite “Buff Girl” is Ellen Barrett. I just found out that she has a few new videos that recently came out. Her workouts are dance/pilates/yoga inspired, but they make you sweat. They were also great to help get my mid-section strong again after my first c-section/pregnancy. I will try to get back to that same sort of workout pattern. Maybe once I’ve dropped some pounds, and strengthened some more, the high impact workouts will not be so taxing on my body. So yeah. I’m still planning on working out everyday, like I had planned while using the 30 Day Shred (even beyond day 30, of course), but I’ve got to re-shelf the high impact workouts for now. Gotta take a more gentle approach.
Aside from working out, I’ve really been trying to change my eating habits. I’ve almost completely stopped drinking soda. When I do, it’s diet soda, and that’s maybe once a week. I’m at the point now though that I’d rather have a nice glass of water, herbal tea, or coconut water. I’ve started to try to add more fruits and veggies to my diet. I also noticed that when I go to the Farmer’s Market, my kids eat better, and they even choose vegetables to eat willingly. I stopped buying white rice, much to the dismay of my mom who feels white rice should be served with every meal (sorry, Mom!). I’ve found that I’m not so carb addicted lately either. We used to go through a loaf of bread every day and a half. I also used to make pasta at least 2 times a week sometimes and it would last us for a couple days. Now I’m completely satisfied with veggies and some protein (preferable fish) on my plate.
Since I started 10 days ago, I’ve lost 3 pounds overall. Initially I gained 2, but I lost those 2, plus 3 more. Whoo-hoo!!! I first started working out because I didn’t like the way I looked and wanted to lose weight and not look like I was still pregnant. But now there are so many reasons to continue. This video by Ellen Barrett says it well. “Weight loss is not a big enough dream.” When I work out regularly, I have energy to get through the day and play with the kids. I sleep better at night and also I don’t need as much sleep. I wake up refreshed (as long as the baby sleeps through the night!). I’m not as much of a grump-a-lump. At least I don’t think I am. 🙂 I know I’m doing something good for my body and I am reminded that God blessed me with with a very capable body. I feel more capable of doing things and handling stresses. I feel STRONG! I am setting an example of leading a more active life for my kids. So yeah… I’m gonna keep on keepin’ on.