Reaching Your Goals

I have been asked by a couple of friends now about diet, exercise, and the elusive 5-10 pounds that just seem to hang on.
So I thought I should address this issue.
I have to tell you, even though I run my self crazy from triathlons, to half marathons, and back to 5and 10ks. I too still struggle with wanting Mr. 5lb baggage to hit the road!
Even now I am struggling and the tally is a little more than that five pound mark. We are leaving for Florida in a few weeks and not only will a swimming suit be donned, but I also sporadically signed up for a race.  I haven't ran in a couple of months (been resting ;)  and now I have lost my stamina and my bathing suit wearing desire.

Most peoples' main problem, including myself, is sugary items, portion sizes, and water intake.
It is so very important to cut those sugary items out when longing to move down a pant size or see production when we are exercising..  Jillian Michael's has a great book out there called Master your Metabolism and it really goes into how our food choices effects our entire bodies.  I like this book because it's not hokey and she has a lot of back up behind her statements.
water/no fast food!
Next portion size.
Did you know most nights I out eat my husband by a whole second plateful?
That was fine when I was training for a big event......but the only big event on my calendar is that big reminder of a vacation coming up and my swimsuit doesn't fit!
If you have trouble like I do, use a smaller plate.  It sounds weird, but if you use a smaller plate and then fill it up, it tricks your brain into thinking you're eating more than you are.  Oh and lots, lots, lots of steamed or raw vegetables, even at snack time.
water/no fast food!
Oh and don't forget lots of water!

So if you are already exercising and tonight going to tweak your diet and have a piece of dark chocolate instead of a big holiday cookie you are doing good!

Today, I already messed up, I have had two cookies, chips, and some chocolate candy (yes chocolate covered almonds is still candy :)
Tomorrow will be my new day.
Exercise is very important.  If you already doing that but are dissatisfied with the results, it means you are not pushing it enough.  Bump up your weights.  Bump up your resistance on that cardio machine (as long as it doesn't hurt that is)  Maybe you have been doing the same thing for awhile and your muscles aren't responding...change what you are doing.  Instead of squats do lunges.  Instead of bicep curls, do planks and spider planks,  if you don't know what I am talking about go to the library and pick up some free videos with some fun bouncy in shape blond lady ;) (yea that will be motivating)

Today, I am going to the gym to do a 3 mile run and go to a strength class.
Then I will come home and eat a bit of salmon, rice, and some broccoli. no salt