Week 1 Underway....

The challenge has started and the competitors all have weighed in and taken our before pictures. That was an experience. I'm not to crazy about going around without a shirt on in front of my friends and family so for me to have my picture taken without my shirt on and have it posted on the Internet was extremely challenging for me.

I've already worked out individually with my trainer and he kicked my butt. The work out was different that what I would normally do (weights vs. core stabilization exercises), but boy did it work the muscles in my body. Just having a trainer to push me was the best part. I like working out, but I'm like most people who will push themselves only so far before stopping. That's where my trainer came in and made me continue for those few extra seconds.

I think this in-shape challenge will be more mental than physical for me. I seem to be fine with the working out part right now, but it's been so much harder for me with the healthy diet part for me. I have been maintaining a healthy eating plan, but that's not to say I don't struggle with the temptations of eating something that isn't healthy. I have begun to chew more sugar free gum as a way to curb my appetite and it seems to be helping. I figure I'll be okay after a couple of weeks.

I was able to see two of my teammates (Lisha & Shelly) this morning at the gym. We all three worked out together for a short time. It was nice having Lisha encourage me while I was pushing to get my last few repetitions in on the machines. I know this contest will end up an individual thing, but right now it's nice having the support of teammates.

I am looking forward to increasing my workouts and more importantly seeing results from my healthy eating and exercise. I'm willing to listen to any helpful advise from any fitness gurus that may be out there reading this blog. Let me hear from you even if you don't consider yourself a fitness guru.