A little over a year ago is when I decided to start eating cleaning and working out. Before then, I just didn't really care! I did a few weights here and there but my main focus was on cardio.
Well, I found myself getting rather bored of just cardio while trying to figure out what weight I wanted to try and maintain, etc. I got really skinny but none the less, I knew that would be unrealistic to maintain and I didn’t want to get any smaller.
At my skinniest (and need I say whitest? : ) don't pay attention to the date either, it's wrong):
Erik suggested I start lifting more and I felt like being challenged, as I had come to love eating healthy and the feeling of working out. So, at that point I started to lift regularly and include more complex carbs and protein into my diet (both important things when building muscle).
Let me tell you, at first I hated lifting! But, I pressed on and grew to really love it. I can now look back and see how far I really came both mentally and physically.
Here's February ‘09 when I could barely get a set of 12 reps benching the bar (45 lbs).
And later … after benching my max thus far, 135 lbs. 
My husband and personal trainer: 
"Happiness is not a destination. It is a method of life."
- Burton Hill-
Oh I'm excited to follow your journey! And, I'm impressed with how far you've come already, you are one TONED women!
ReplyDeleteLesly, this is such an impressive story. I can't beleieve how incredible you look after a few months of lifting.
ReplyDeleteIt's so uplifting to hear that women like you are taking serious strides in overall health and wellness. Too many girls just focus on eating as little as they can and burning as many calories as possible. Sadly, this usually leads to a diaster in health.
Keep up all of your unbeleiveably hard work. You look amazing and I am so proud of you! ;)
I'm so excited for this series! As you know, I am a HUGE fan of clean eating as well. I also lift regularly via body pump. I think a good balance of cardio and weights is key! Keep up the good work. PS you two are ADORABLE!
ReplyDeleteI am very excited to hear what you have to say because I would like to get a little more "buff" (Shall I say) just like you did! You look great, girl! :D
ReplyDeleteNice blog, looking good!
ReplyDeleteI think you look wonderful! I look forward to hearing more about your journey. How lucky you are to have a supportive husband!
ReplyDeleteWow, what an amazing transformation! I'm glad that lifting is really paying off for you.
ReplyDeleteYay. Love the idea for this series!
ReplyDeleteWow, you look great! What a great resource you have in your hubs. I'm looking forward to the rest of this series. Like you, I have historically always focused on cardio. I know I need to do more strength and I am getting better about doing it, but sometimes I still lose motivation. Can't wait to read more!
ReplyDeletei love this post girl! i think it's so important to realize that being "healthy" doesn't mean being thin -- you are the epitome of strength and beauty and seriously, your bod is rockin! i def. wouldn't wanna meet you in a dark alley ;) just sayin!
ReplyDeleteHoly muscle!! Good for you!
ReplyDeleteHoly cow! Nobody will ever mess with you two I'm sure! Your guys have got some guns!
ReplyDeleteI used to hate lifting, too - now I absolutely LOVE it! NEVER would have thought I would ever say that!! I just love the feeling of being strong. Plus, being toned is super hot, IMO!
ReplyDeleteWow this is the first time I've come across this blog and I think I'm already hooked! I lift 3 times a week for track and at first I wasn't so fond, but now I LOVE it, it's my favorite part or working out, besides the fact that it's so great for your body! Can't wait to read your blog more often!
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