Body for Life

So, I'm into my third week of the Body For Life challenge. I have to say that I'm really loving it. The whole philosophy involved weight training and cardio on opposing days. Also, six small meals of protein and carb each day. And ten glasses of water. Plus, you get one day of no exercise and one cheat day food wise.


So far, I'm not finding it hard at all. I actually eat more than I used to, but much healthier. And a lot more protein. You would think it would be hard to drink 10 glasses of water a day, but it's not. I have two glasses with each meal. Getting me to 12! And usually I have at least one when I work out!


The workouts are easy. You alternate upper body and lower body weight training with 20 minutes of cardio. For my cardio on Tues, Thurs and Sat I either walk around the block (1 mile) while pushing the stroller and run the last stretch or ride my bike around the block with the bike trailer or do a Tae Bo video. I can already tell my stamina is increasing. In the past I couldn't ride my bike completely around the block (we have some big hills), but now I can! And I never used to run, even for a little bit, but now I can run about 2/10 of a mile.


For the weight training I have a bench and dumbbells at home. I had to start really light because I haven't ever lifted weights. I start with one set of 12 reps with the lightest weight, then one set of 10 reps with the next weight, 8 reps with the next weight and 6 reps at the highest weight. Then back to the second highest weight for one more set of 12. Then one quick 12 rep set of something else. I do this for each body part. Alternating lower and upper body days. I must say that I definitely feel stronger. My arms are definitely getting toned. And my legs hurt for DAYS after my first workout.


My goal is to lose about 15 pounds. Although I'd be happy with around 10 pounds if I gain more muscle. Ultimately, I just want to tone up. And feel better.


Here are my before pics:

Hopefully my after pics will look like these: Emily