Redux

Yes, I lost the first weight loss challenge that Vandy-Montana and I had a few months ago. But, I've thrown down the gauntlet again and this time... I'm guaranteeing a win.

Last night was our weigh-in and I am sad to say that it appears I've gained a little weight since the results of the last challenge. As in... like everything I lost. My optimistic side says... "ohhhh you've just gained some muscle!" But the realistic side of me says... "Yeah, that's what consuming 15 beers in one night for a drinking competition will do." It's true. I haven't really been watching my diet too much since the marathon. I would be really good for like 3 days in a row and then I'd blow it on the weekends, etc. Ehhh... whatev. I'll lose it.

But, since I've already made it my mission to get my ass into gear this summer... this just coincides nicely with that as an added incentive.

I learned a lot from the last competition. Looking back... I realize that I was eating wayyyyy more carbs than was necessary. It's easy to get it into your head that if you're running 50 miles a week, it's okay for you to eat loads of oatmeal, cereal, pasta, rice, and potatoes. But, it's actually not. Sure, I need carbs, but I don't need more carbs than anything else. I need to balance my diet better.

So, the plan is... to amp up my lean protein intake. I never even thought of protein last time around, but I know that it's good for muscle recovery and I know that it will help me build more muscle. That means more fish, more egg whites and less oatmeal, less cereal. Also, I desperately need to lower my sugar intake. Which, admittedly, is the hardest thing for me. Then there's also the alcohol aspect. I'm officially off beer (well, except for a trip in June, where there will be beer consumed), so that should help some. For me, losing weight is almost entirely dependent on my diet. Sure, exercise helps... but I can exercise all day long and I still have to eat healthy to shed pounds.

As far as exercise goes... the plan is to continue running (obviously) but to slowly inch my mileage up throughout the summer. I also plan to stick with my strength training in order to tone up... with a big focus on my upper body and my core.

So, I've taken a "before" picture for this time around. I tried to pick out clothes that were a little tight on me, so that we can better gauge progress at the end. In addition to noting my weight, I've also taken measurements of various parts of my body. (Obsessed this time around, ya think?)

I hope you enjoyed that beer and cheeseburger after the St. Louis Marathon, Vandy-Montana... because the tab's on you this time, sucka.