As a working mother, life can get hectic. From potty training my four-year-old to driving sales revenue, its important to me that I still find the time to grow in all direction. After giving birth to my second child in 2014, I found it increasingly difficult to return back to my pre-birth weight. I didn't quite bounce back the way I had after my first pregnancy. I came to the realization that I needed to switch things up; If I wanted different results, I had to change my routines. Suddenly my no-excersize, all-carb diet wouldn't keep me in a size 4. Don't get me wrong, this may sound controversial saying that I had a target size however to be clear, I was more interested in returning to my normal size and feeling good about my health and the way I look. I was hit hard with postpartum depression as have most mothers, and it was important to me that I didn't recall my pre-pregnancy body as the "good 'ole years." I wanted to be proud and confident in who I was today and who I will become tomorrow.
So what did I change?
For starters, I changed my diet. I cut out tortillas, white bread and white rice cold turkey. Also I replaced my liquid intake with water with the exception of my morning dose of caffeine (steamed milk over three shots of espresso). I increased protein intake and substituted fatty snacks with healthier snack options such as peanut butter and celery. I didn't obsess with my intake portions by counting my macros (although I respect those who are that disciplined). Instead I simply made healthier choices and eliminated the mentioned bad-carb intake. I saw results within three weeks.
And I hit the gym...
I didn't just want to lose weight; I wanted to be stronger! Approaching a work-out as a competition with yourself is a great way to play to your competitive side while truly pushing yourself beyond your limits.
I am a beginner and open to suggestions but here are some of my go-to workouts so far:
Again, I am just getting into this whole fitness thing but I have to admit, it is addicting!
So what did I change?
For starters, I changed my diet. I cut out tortillas, white bread and white rice cold turkey. Also I replaced my liquid intake with water with the exception of my morning dose of caffeine (steamed milk over three shots of espresso). I increased protein intake and substituted fatty snacks with healthier snack options such as peanut butter and celery. I didn't obsess with my intake portions by counting my macros (although I respect those who are that disciplined). Instead I simply made healthier choices and eliminated the mentioned bad-carb intake. I saw results within three weeks.
And I hit the gym...
I didn't just want to lose weight; I wanted to be stronger! Approaching a work-out as a competition with yourself is a great way to play to your competitive side while truly pushing yourself beyond your limits.
I am a beginner and open to suggestions but here are some of my go-to workouts so far:
- 3 Sets, 15 Reps: Squats
- 3 Sets, 10 Reps: Deadlifts
- 3 Sets, 10 Reps: Walking Lunges
- 3 Sets, 10 Reps: Weighted Glute Bridges
- 2 Sets, 15 Reps: 1 Arm Tricep Extensions
- 1:00 Plank
- Cardio
Again, I am just getting into this whole fitness thing but I have to admit, it is addicting!