If you’re wondering how my goals for the year are going, I’d say not too shabby! I’ve definitely got the step outside of my comfort zone goal down with adding colors to my wardrobe, starting a Youtube channel and blogging. I still need to work on things like water intake and patience (as my kids fight next to me while I type this), and especially getting back into a physical activity.
I so want to do ballet again, but truth is, I’m just not ready. Not that I was ready when I first started ballet 8 years ago, but let’s face it, I was younger and more spry then with almost no cares in the world. I was able to more easily manipulate my body and build up strength and flexibility pretty quickly. I did ballet for a solid year before I became pregnant with my first, and was in probably the best shape of my life. Once I became pregnant, I got too scared to go, afraid of working out too intensely (though my doctor gave me the all clear). After I gave birth, I was too sore from a C-section and extremely exhausted, as most new mothers are. I did try to go back a few times, but then I got pregnant with my little boy when my first was 15 months and I had only just stopped breast feeding when she was 12 months. Needless to say, two kids later I’m definitely not as flexible, I’m tired, and my time on the weekends are limited and precious. I will get back into ballet at some point, but I want to be able to come back strong.
So the question became what can I do to get some strength back? I did try to run a few times with my husband a couple of years ago, but I did not enjoy it. He’s a runner, and I’m just not. I will try that again too though, as I really REALLY want to run a Disney marathon. I know my husband would be all over that and it would be a good excuse to go back before our once a year trip. I’m a big dreamer, what can I say!
I ultimately decided that to get back into fitness, I would need to start at my own pace and work out from home where I was more comfortable. after some research, I decided to download an app called “Sweat” to follow the BBG (Bikini Body Guide) workout program. I know, the name may be off putting, but tons of women have seen results from what I can tell! It’s a 28 mins workout of your choosing (legs, arms and abs, full body, etc), that I plan on doing at least 3 times a week and will slowly build up to 5. I tried it last Thursday and only lasted 15 mins (ouch), but when I did it again on Saturday, I did the whole 28! I realize that I’m probably doing all of the moves wrong and I definitely need to update my equipment from my kids’ jumprope and step stool, but hey, gotta do what you gotta do!
To be clear, though the program is titled Bikini Body, I’m in no way striving for perfection. I’m really just looking to tone and strengthen (though getting rid of my mom gut caused by diastasis recti would be nice too). Physical activity is important for health, and I want to be healthy for myself and my family. For now, this workout program is what I hope will work best for me. I want my kids to see me and us as parents be more active and get them motivated and active as well. I see it as a win for all!
To hold myself accountable, I’m posting the dreaded “before” pictures and I’ll update at week 4! Do you guys have a workout routine? Is it something simple that a novice like myself can do?
My daughter has the best light and mirror 
Ooph. That belly. 
Bye for now!
Nicole
Colored In Pretty 