I don't know about all you other former brides or brides-to-be, but
nothing motivated me to get in shape like seeing pictures of myself in a
wedding dress for the first time. Not that I was in bad shape. I
workout regularly and eat pretty healthy...I just also have no self
control (especially for anything sweet). And it showed. You know...white
is NOT a forgiving color.
Fortunately, time was (and still is) on my side. I needed to make
some changes. Nothing too drastic, mind you. But just some minor changes
that will hopefully help me feel and look my best on the big day.
The biggest change has been my diet. I decided to join Weight Watchers a few weeks ago to really keep me on track. So far it has really helped me keep my portion sizes and snacking in check, which it was definitely my weakness.
Other than logging every thing I eat, I have also just tried to eat healthy foods. Not too much sugar or processed food. I have been finding a lot of healthy recipes online through these websites: Skinny Taste, Oh She Glows, and the Gracious Pantry.
As far as the fitness part of the puzzle goes, I haven't made too many changes. I have definitely increased the amount of cardio activity I do, as compared to weight training (about 75/25). But once I get to my goal weight, I will probably go back to about 50/50. And I don't do any more than 60 minutes a day.
I have really grown my library of fitness programs over the years since I ended my gym membership. Instead of just focusing on one program, I am mixing things up and doing a little bit of everything. Here is an example of some of the workouts I will do:
For a really heart pounding, dripping sweat workout I will do an Insanity workout.
The biggest change has been my diet. I decided to join Weight Watchers a few weeks ago to really keep me on track. So far it has really helped me keep my portion sizes and snacking in check, which it was definitely my weakness.
Other than logging every thing I eat, I have also just tried to eat healthy foods. Not too much sugar or processed food. I have been finding a lot of healthy recipes online through these websites: Skinny Taste, Oh She Glows, and the Gracious Pantry.
As far as the fitness part of the puzzle goes, I haven't made too many changes. I have definitely increased the amount of cardio activity I do, as compared to weight training (about 75/25). But once I get to my goal weight, I will probably go back to about 50/50. And I don't do any more than 60 minutes a day.
I have really grown my library of fitness programs over the years since I ended my gym membership. Instead of just focusing on one program, I am mixing things up and doing a little bit of everything. Here is an example of some of the workouts I will do:
For a really heart pounding, dripping sweat workout I will do an Insanity workout.
When I want to get my muscles burning I will do some P90x workouts. I'm sure you have seen those infomercials on TV.
I also really like the Tracy Anderson Method. Her arm workout is completely difference than any other
arm-toning workout I've done, but my arms are
KILLING me afterwards.
For my legs, I like to do a Physique-57 video, which is a barre inspired workout.
I guess, my strategy is to stay disciplined with my diet but mix it up with my fitness. So far it's worked pretty well. I am down 9 pounds. Almost to my goal.
Also, another thing that I think helps: bribes. I am bribing myself with small gifts for every 5 pounds I lose, then a big gift if I can keep it off for 3 months. Now that's some good motivation. Oh yeah, and looking good in my wedding dress!
What did you do to prepare for your big day? Any favorite healthy cooking sites?
For my legs, I like to do a Physique-57 video, which is a barre inspired workout.
I guess, my strategy is to stay disciplined with my diet but mix it up with my fitness. So far it's worked pretty well. I am down 9 pounds. Almost to my goal.
Also, another thing that I think helps: bribes. I am bribing myself with small gifts for every 5 pounds I lose, then a big gift if I can keep it off for 3 months. Now that's some good motivation. Oh yeah, and looking good in my wedding dress!
What did you do to prepare for your big day? Any favorite healthy cooking sites?
Covering my butt: I am not recommending anyone go on a diet or start any of the above mentioned fitness programs. When making a change in your lifestyle that can affect your health, please consult your doctor.
White is super unforgiving! Did you know in India the bridal color is red? Way better for everyone!
ReplyDeleteI think it's awesome you're so committed to working out and eating well, regardless of the wedding. I remember saying to myself, "You have a year, make it happen!" But then life got in the way (as it always will) and I only did one measly workout that year! I'm pretty skinny anyway (like you seem to be in your photos), so I didn't worry about it too much.
Do I regret not working out? No, not really. I only wish my arms had been toner.
Also, friendly tip, make sure you don't lose/gain any weight (including muscles mass!) after your final fitting! Especially if your dress is tight to form. So your goal date to shape up should be the date of your final dress fitting :) (trust me, I wore a tight dress!)
Oh, and for good healthy eating tips, I like Whole Foods' website, even though I don't have the money to shop there a lot, it still has good recipe ideas and overall dietary/nutritional info. And yay for Skinny Taste :) Mmm I her zucchini enchiladas!