BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU ASK FOR

I am now four weeks into my training program and my husband tells me he’s never heard me be so vocal when I work out. I’m not sure if he means the loud huffing and puffing (gasping for air) noises I make, or the obnoxious gulping of water with the big “ahh” afterward, or if he means the deep animal groans (that sound like a bull ready to charge) that come with the last set of reps. Nevertheless, I admit, I am more vocal in the gym these days. 

In naivety, I thought my workouts were already pretty intense, but Mark’s training program has definitely kicked it up a notch or two, or five. You know it's a good workout plan when you look forward to cardio day because it gives you a break!  One of the things that I like the most about Mark's training program is that it's easy to understand and follow, and he is such a supportive cheerleader (with kettle bells instead of pom poms).  He is always checking in to make sure I am on track and that my head is on straight.

When I first spoke with Mark, I asked him to help me with three of my main goals.

1. I wanted to learn how to eat healthy (including portion control).
2. I wanted to change my body composition.
3. I wanted to lose weight (fat).

I am happy to report, I am seeing progress in all three areas. First, I am definitely eating a well-balanced diet that includes fruit, vegetables, grains, and protein (and even chocolate!). I have so much more energy now, and I am slowly losing the unhealthy jibber jabber that still tries to play over and over again in my head, every so often. 

Second, my body composition is definitely changing, and I am growing in strength.  I have even noticed that my legs are shaping up and so are my arms and tummy.  Getting up early to work out every day is a whole lot easier now that I am seeing changes when I look in the mirror.  It's so rewarding when you start seeing results.

And third, I am losing fat and replacing it with muscle. Yes, my weight loss has been slow, but my training program is intense, and I am building muscle. Ya, I’ll admit, I would like to have seen a little more weight loss in four weeks, but there are a lot of changes happening in my body right now, and I can’t expect to gain muscle and lose weight rapidly. 

Time is running out

Although I am pleased with my progress, roosterfish season is fast approaching, and that means I will be back on the beautiful beaches of the Baja soon, and that means I have to fit “this” into a bikini! So in panic, I asked Mark to amp it up (be careful what you ask for), and start me on a three week killer B workout (the B stands for Baja).

OMG, looking at the meal/work out plan got me a little terrified. Oh Mark, you have so much faith in me (I am giggling right now)! I may not have buns of steel now, but I expect after this is all over I will be able to pick up my towel from the gym floor with no hands.

I will update you guys after the next 3 grueling weeks are over, and please don't forget to cheer me on!  I will need it!