I have been on a journey for close to 4 years now. I have tried almost everything to lose weight, from killing myself with different workout programs, to going to doctors to find out what is wrong with me (I did have some issues), to trying different healthy food. I was consistent and did everything I could find that was the right thing to do. I was finely to the point where I was pretty burned out and considered giving up. It took me 3 years to lose 30 pounds, and over the last year I had gained about 10 back. I hated what I saw in the mirror, but I felt helpless to do anything about it. What I needed was motivation to get back on track, and through FITOPIA I have found that.
It started with joining MyFitnessPal. I had this app on my phone for the last year but never used it. When I heard somebody mention that she was using it I thought, what the heck I'll try it too. I love it. I used to track my calories but not like this. I love that not only does it track my calories but it also keeps track of my workouts. I love seeing the calories burned number go up throughout the day. It has been the best tool to keep me on track, and it's easy to do.
The next step was beginning a workout regimen again. We all know how hard it is to get going, and even though I love working out the first couple days were torture. What helped motivate me was the thought of all of these women who were in the same place I was in. I wanted to be able to encourage them, and how could I do that if I wasn't doing it myself? I got myself a new program and started doing it 3-5 days per week. I have a new outlook on my workouts. I continue to push myself, but I am not killing myself like before. I have down sized the weight that I lift and I am seeing results like I never saw with the heavier weights. I am finally seeing the muscle definition that I have wanted for so long. I have fallen in love with working out all over again, and I am more determined that ever to reach my goals. My results have not been extreme, but I am finely seeing some. Every pound lost is a victory.
The final step was to show up to our weekly workouts. ZUMBA is awesome, but the fellowship is why I want to be there. I want to grow relationships with these women that I have known for years. It is also another opportunity to encourage them. A friend of mine once told me that I am their motivation. I can't motivate them if I am not a part of their life.
Ladies of FITOPIA, I love you. Your friendships have helped me get back on track. As I said, my goal was to encourage. The one thing I did not expect was to be so encouraged. So thank you, FITOPIA, my friends, from the bottom of my heart.
Much love to you all, Brandi
"A friend is one who believes in you when you have ceased to believe in yourself."
~Anonymous
Brandi, I am so glad that you are walking out this journey with all of us. I can honestly say that it would not be the same without you. This group is truly AMAZING!!! I am realizing more and more it is truly not the destination (although I can't wait to get there) but the journey and I believe that we are making the very best of where we are at on the way to where we are going, so much so that it is actually fun! Love you friend! I am so proud of you and your dedication to us your friends and to yourself. You are so worth the choices you are making!
ReplyDeletePS... I am totally jealous of your purple workout shoes with the orange laces (my favorite) ;0)
Loving that you posted! Not to mention that it's really good stuff!! I get such a kick from hearing how people's expectations, goals, motivations, etc. have changed. You're definitely an encourager and that means a ton to me! Keep on keepin' on, my friend. You do too many things right NOT to get results!
ReplyDeleteLove, T