Healthy Me - Part I

I have been working diligently to lose weight over the past several months.  The journey has not been an easy one, especially through the holidays.  But I'm excited to announce that with the help of my nutritionist and lots of hard work, I've lost 25 lbs!!  My goal is to lose approximately 40 lbs by Memorial Day weekend because in my book, that's the official kick-off for summer.  

How did I do it?  

• I made better food choices -- more fruits and veggies and fewer dinners out and convenience foods.  
• I was more active -- I completed the Couch to 5k running program, took short walks during my lunch break and after dinner, and joined a gym (I never go to the gym without a workout plan).  
• I was consistent -- which is the most important part!!  I will be honest and say there were days/weeks when I didn't eat so well or when I didn't work out at all.  But I didn't let those days keep me from getting back into my routine and staying focused.  

I'm guilty of having an all-or-nothing attitude but with long-term goals, consistency is key.  Being successful everyday is impossible but as long as at the end of the week or month, you've had more successful days than non-successful ones, you're headed in the right direction.  I take it one meal at at time, one workout at at time, one pound at a time.

Below are my before and during (cause I'm not quite done!!) photos in the same swimsuit.  Although it's hard to tell, the swimsuit is a little big now but this helps give a visual of my weight loss.  I'm really excited about this journey.  It hasn't been easy but DEFINITELY worth it.  Do you have any health or fitness goals you're working towards?

LEAVE A COMMENT

Black Girls RUN!

Running is something I started incorporating into my fitness regime earlier this year.  For me, it's a great way to burn off energy and stress.  I can get lost in my thoughts, leave the world behind, and burn off a few extra calories all at the same time.  We all know the health benefits associated with running but maybe you've never gotten into running.  Maybe you don't know where to start or you find running boring. 

Toni & Ashley, Founders of Black Girls RUN!

In 2009, Toni Carey and Ashley Hicks created Black Girls RUN! in an effort to tackle the growing obesity epidemic in the African American community and provide encouragement and resources to both new and veteran runners.  The mission of Black Girls RUN! (BGR!) is to encourage African American women to make fitness and healthy living a priority.  The most wonderful thing about this organizations and their subsidaries all around the country is that all fitness levels are welcomed.  The idea behind BGR! is not only to meet other women who share the same desire to maintain good health, but also encourge you to bring your sister, aunt or mother with you.  Regardless of your fitness level (or ethnicity), there is always room for you at BGR! Visit their web page www.blackgirlsrun.com to learn more about the organization, get BGR! gear and find a BGR! running group near you. So get running and preserve the sexy!

LEAVE A COMMENT

Sexy Baggage

The only baggage you should be taking into the new year should be fashionable and come in a variety of colors.  As many of you may be resolving to be more fit in 2012, here are a few suggestions on making your gym entrance a fashionable one.

ASOS Nylon Sports Holdall - $63.63

Luluemon Destined for Greatness Duffel - $128.00

Victoria's Secret Hobo Gym Bag - $58.50

Crescent Moon Tool Bag - $103.99

Sumo Women's Duffel - $51.99

LEAVE A COMMENT