Today’s post I wanted to share a little about my 2020 weight loss journey. Last year was so tough on many of us. It was hard on our families, careers, mental health, and social lives. I went through many ups and downs with my emotions and feelings of isolation.
I got engaged early February and was supposed to get married in November but obviously that didn’t happen due to the current pandemic. Since 2014 I slowly started to gain weight and after my mom passed in 2015 the weight really started to pack on. I gained 35 pounds and didn’t even recognize myself. I knew I had to make a change for myself.
Losing weight to me is not about being skinny or looking picture perfect, it’s about being healthy and feeling my best self. I started this journey with my best friend in March of 2020 and it was not easy. But with a little effort and consistency I have been able to knock off 12 lbs and 9″ total. Here is what I did and how I’ve been able to keep it off.
Ditch the Diets
Dieting is not something I like to do and in the past they have never stuck! I’ve tried low-carb, keto, counting calories, etc and they’ve all failed. So ditch the diets and focus on small changes.
Here are some ideas:
- If you’re a snacker like myself, focus on swapping snacks for more whole foods like fruits, veggies, and nuts.
- Stick to an eating schedule to avoid overeating.
- Drink more water! I’m sure you’ve heard this before but staying hydrated will make you fuller longer and could help you avoid overeating.
- Night time eaters/snackers. Of course we all have our routines and mine is capping off the night with a Netflix series and some snuggle time that would include a small piece of candy or chocolate. You don’t have to cut it completely, just limit the indulgence to a couple times a night or have healthier options with less sugar like Smart Sweets or Quests Peanut Butter Cups (my fav!).
Find a Workout Program
SWEAT App by Kayla Itsines was the app I chose. I have started programs on this app so many times and didn’t allow myself to get into a routine. I would get frustrated because I couldn’t do certain moves or would get so tired mid way through. The most important thing is GIVE IT YOUR BEST. You don’t have to be perfect, just don’t give up on yourself. Modify the moves or give yourself a little longer rest, just keep going.
Here is a post if you’re looking for other apps: Top 10 Apps for Home Fitness
Have an Accountability Partner
Grab a gal pal to start this journey with! I moved to Oregon in 2019 and because of the pandemic still haven’t found a ton of friends but that was no excuse. My accountability partner is my best friend who live in TX. We’re doing our SWEAT App program together which is great we can check-in with each other, motivate each other, and encourage each other when we start doubting ourselves.
Move It Throughout The Day
Ugh the dreaded desk job! This is probably another reason that I started packing on the pounds. I went from being super active in college to landing a desk job which meant that I wasn’t walking or working out as much.
Find ways to move throughout the day like take a walk during your breaks or go for a run during lunch. Even just getting up to stretch and move can really help give you more energy.
Take Your Vitamins and Supplements
Vitamins and supplements can aid in weight loss especially if you have eating restrictions. Having a well rounded diet is important especially when it comes to protein, veggies, and fruits. They supply your body with a lot of your daily vitamins and minerals so if you’re not consuming enough of these you could be deficient and in turn can effect your metabolism and ability to lose weight.
I take this multivitamin to get all my daily vitamins in and I love that it’s a gummy. It also to take protein during the day and post workout to give nutrients to your muscles. I take this protein after my workouts and sip on this throughout the day or pre-workout to give me a little energy.
I’m going to do a full post on the supplements and vitamins I take throughout my week so be sure to sign up for my email list here to be notified.
Related: 5 Goals You Need to Set in 2021
No matter what your journey don’t anyone ever make you feel like you’re not worthy and that you to full blast into losing weight. It’s about YOU and no one else. Do what is best for you and what will make you happy!
xx // christine
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