The Cat Is Outta The Bag

Posted Apr 5, 2006 by jriley

Updated Apr 9, 2006 at 07:25 PM

I think it was Tenisha who asked ...” How do people respond when you tell them about being in this Challenge?” Well,  I tested the waters yesterday and told the crew at work about my little Weight Loss Challenge. Everyone seemed enthused ( or maybe it was just me being enthused). Their reaction was positive. So to answer that question…the response I’ve been getting from friends and family has been fantastic!  Lots of encouragement.

Public scrutiny was the driving force for me to enter this contest. I’m usually a private person but I knew that my daily struggles would have to be chronicled and the whole world ( Tampa Bay area, at least) would be keeping an eye on me.

Speaking of eyeballing. Let me tell you about my struggle this morning. Our department throws THE BEST food parties…birthday, retirement, Ground Hog Day etc. So while celebrating Donna’s birthday today, I had to turn away tons of baked goods, biscuits/ gravy, doughnuts ( Krispy Kreme)etc. I ended up choosing a banana to munch on. I noticed alot of eyeballs checking out my food choice too! Talk about keeping me honest.

Let me tell you about my fitness routine. I’m walking , cycling and lifting weights. I’m pretty much old school… so no fancy schmancy workout gadgets for me.

I usually walk Bayshore Blvd twice a week. I started doing 3 miles..took over an hour. Now, three weeks later, I’m walking it in 50-55 minutes. On odd days, I ride an exercise bike(garage sale variety) for about 30 minutes and spend 30 minutes on the weight machine. It has stackable weights and lots of pulleys and gizmos and you can really get hurt if you’re not careful. Note to Gina: Are all exercise machines from the Medieval Ages? They do appear to be torture devices. I definitely need some advice from Erin (trainer) in this area.

So far, this routine seems to be working. Our ‘bios’ will be featured in Saturday’s Tribune (see- 4 You section) and my weight will no longer be a guarded secret. OUCH! But I feel great…I’ve lost 3 pounds from that starting weight.

I try to mix up my routine so not to get bored. I rode 18 miles on my road bike this past Sunday. Pass-a-Grille to John’s Pass…and back. I do recommend a couple of ‘rest days’ during the week. Your body lets you know when it’s just too pooped to do anymore.

So, if anyone has ideas for workouts or news of upcoming bike events or interesting fitness events…please share with me.

My next goal: Getting food portions in control. Stay tuned.