My Never-Ending Story

So here I am, almost 2 months into my current quest for a healthy and fit life. That, in and of itself, is a HUGE deal for me. I have not been this committed to working out...EVER. Still have my days where I don't feel like it or just plain lazy about it, but I'm hanging in there. I often look back and wonder though, how did I get here.

I never had a problem with my weight growing up. I was always skinny and could wear anything I wanted. I was always one of the thinnest people in my family...my mom also being one. I was 5'7", 115 lbs throughout most of high school, pretty much just sticks though, curves were just about non-existent. I didn't participate in any organized sports, but I was on the Pom-Pon Squad...and LOVED it! I also took dance classes and was involved in a lot of activities at school, church and in the community.

While I wasn't overweight, I certainly was an over-eater. The 5'7", 115 lb girl that I was could eat ANYONE out of a house and home. I have always had a very healthy appetite...still do! What can I say? I love food (apparently, it loves me too, so much that it sticks around...on my thighs, arms, waist...you get the point). I just figured I always had a super-fast metabolism.

I started gaining a little weight here and there in college. Not really the Freshman 15, but a couple pounds. I was very active in various organizations, which kept me busy on campus. Walking to classes, meetings and functions was my daily exercise. Not to mention, after I joined my sorority, there were PLENTY of step shows and practices that kept my body moving and in great shape. That is, until my junior year...

What happened? Oh yeah, I got a brand new car (thanks Mom!). Instead of walking around campus, I started driving everywhere. Not only did my daily walking suffer, but my eating habits changed. I became very friendly with fast food...and there were a plethora of fast food joints around town. Next thing I know, my clothes don't fit right anymore, I'm pudgy in the middle and the scale is going up. Oh yeah, here's the worst part, people started noticing that I was getting puffy. Uh oh!!!

This part of my story is familiar to many I'm sure. As each year came and went, I gained a few more pounds, tried a few fad diets and gained more. You name it, I've tried it. Well maybe not everything out there, but I've lost enough $$$ on things that JUST DON'T WORK! It took me a long time to realize that there isn't a magic bullet, just the good old fashioned formula...eat less, move more.

I'm definitely moving more now and I'm loving it! I work out mostly at home, my preferred workout clothes now are simply sports bra and panties, socks and gym shoes (that's what we call them in Detroit). Wearing next to nothing in front of a mirror really accentuates the flaws and pushes me to move more. Not a pretty sight though! LOL My current workout regimen consists of Turbo Jam and ChaLEAN Extreme with free weights and resistance bands. If the weather is nice out, I'll walk. I will be starting the Couch to 5K program soon so I can prepare to run a 5K next year.

I'm so proud of my progress so far. My physical appearance hasn't changed much, but my attitude sure has. Now if I can just get my eating under control.