Day 1 "Train the Trainer"

Day 1 is here!!  Starting off great!!

Food prep done last night, roasted  veggies and pork roast. Lunch is a nice salad from Sobey's, and of course some fruit and protein :).  Healthy portions, LOTS of Water!!!

I was weighed and measured last night, my hydration was almost non existent, working on that!! (Bonus to hydrating....cardio in running to the bathroom every 15 minutes!!)  I will post measurements at the end of the 6 weeks, but will keep you updated with weight.  It is after all ONLY a number, the number on the scale does not define who you are!!!  My starting weight was 165.4 and hopefully this will be on the decline each week! 

I have my work out planned, thanks to Gineen, who obviously knows something I don't.  This workout she designed for me is pretty hard core!  I think she is "Testing me"  and I know she is watching, so I have to give it all I got! haha I am not sure if I will even survive the first 40 min cardio speed intervals on the treadmill! haha Good thing they have a defibrillator on site! 

I will be attempting this tonight around 8 pm and hope I live to tell you how it went.  I may even be brave and post a picture or two!

This is my plan of attack tonight in my (as Gineen called it) Get Ripped Program....
**do not attempt with out consulting your physician first**

-       SPEED INTERVALS FOR 40 MINUTES ON THE TREADMILL

JUMP SQUAT X 20 REPS

PLYO SPLIT LUNGE X 20 REPS

PLYO STEP-UPS X 20 REPS

PLYO LATERAL LUNGE ON BOSU

BUTT KICKS X 30 SECONDS

POWER JACKS X 20 REPS

STABILITY BALL CRUNCHES X 20 REPS

LYING LEG RAISE X 20 REPS

RUSSIAN TWIST X 20 REPS

MOUNTAIN CLIMBERS X 20 REPS\

To be continued..................  

So I did what I set out to do....I went and attempted Day 1.  Day KICKED MY BUTT!  My speed intervals were more less speed than speed.  I did a 5 min brisk walk warm up followed by 1 minute intervals at the pace of 4, 8, 5, 9 and did that for 20 minutes.  I switched to the plyo part, which killed me! lol I didn't leave a break in between sets (ok, a little one) and I used a 4 lb ball between my feet for the leg lifts and Russian twists.  

I then went back to the ole treadmill to which I found I had no more speed intervals left.  The old knees were aching, and thanks to a "stitch" in my side, I brisk walked at 4mph for the last 20 minutes.  I did however give all I had on the last set of plyos.  I used weight, added in a little more and did some sets over. 

Well, to conclude, Day 1 was an eye opener.  I am still eating well and ready for the next workout!  

Stay tuned......

www.nfpei.ca

Day 0

So counting this as day 0, as today is the healthy hydrating clean eating day.  Tonight I will be warming up with circuit style training class at Naturally Fit.  Starting tomorrow, Day 1 I will begin my training program! 6 weeks trying as hard as I can to stick to clean eating and training every day!

I had a wonderful personal trainer/business owner create this "Train the Trainer" program, so in turn I am accountable to her!  I can't disappoint!

I have a feeling I will have some ups and downs along the way, but hey, its only 6 weeks! I can do it!!

I will post measurements and photos of the 6 week challenge.  I know I am curious to see some results and just what hard work and dedication can do to your body.

My 6 week project started today!!!

I will or may need some motivation, encouragment and some one to yell at me to "Go Harder" along the way! feel free!! I welcome it with open arms. 

Day 1 will be Cardio and Plyometrics.  Hopefully I will live through it and blog about it after! :)

30 Before 30 - Letter To My Future Self...

Thursday, September 13, 2012

Dear Future Self,

As I am sure you remember, you created a 30 before 30 list of some silly things to complete before you turned 30. It was an amazing experience, and the love and support from everyone along this journey was beyond.  On that list was a letter to your future self, so I will tell you at this point how my 20's were and my lessons and values learned.  You might roll your eyes and laugh at your thought process, in your let’s say late 20’s early 30’s! haha

I am not sure if my advice to you is going to be useful by the time you read this, but the best words anyone has ever spoken to me were “You control your life”.  As soon as I heard those words something clicked.  How true they are.  I am my journey, my decisions and actions have outcomes, which could make or break me.  I hope you steer this ship in the right direction and down the right path, and look back on your years and the journey of life with a smile and many stories to tell.

I think you know already, but life throws you curve balls and puts many speed bumps in your way.  These are all strategically placed to keep you on your toes.  From what I can recall up until now, nothing has ever stood in my way.   I was known to have a….let’s call it a “Strong Attitude and Personality”. Yes that is what it was.  I also learned along the road that sometimes it is best to bite your tongue, no matter how hard it is.  This is a lesson I have learned the hard way many times, and I am still learning. (In the process of mastering the biting of the tongue)

I have learned to be patient with trust, I always seem to learn that one the hard way too.  I now know that it is earned.  It is quality which I hope to possess. You need to stay true to yourself before you can stay true to someone else. 

Your 20’s were amazing.  Two beautiful little girls and the experience of being a mommy is more than words can describe.  I am almost looking forward to being old, so I can be a grandmother and experience it all again. Not sure if I am looking forward to the old part? But you are only as old as you feel.  

I discovered you can sit and wallow in self-pity when the whole world is against you or you can say enough is enough and start kicking ass and taking names! I have found that ass kicking strength and actually surprised myself of my ability to fight for what I wanted.  I think most would describe that aspect as being stubborn!

We all need to learn our own lessons and see true trial and error before we see success.  We need the little blunders first hand to really appreciate success in its entirety.   As long as we are afraid of failure we will put forth that extra strength and determination for success.  For me failure is not an option, it is not failure, rather just little bumps in the road, which build character and allow us to have a story to tell.

My 20’s have also made me realize that without your health, you truly have nothing.  I do not want to be a statistic with 5 different co-morbidities and not be able to experience life to the fullest.  I kicked bad habits, and found the happy healthy lifestyle.  That black cloud, regrets, and extra baggage was instantly released.  I found the ability to see things in a different light.  Positive thoughts are now the only ones allowed.  I look for the good in every situation.  Learning lessons and having a story to tell.

I have learned that others look up to you, I never thought in a million years someone would ever look up to me.  I inspired others to take control of their life. One thing they don’t know is that they give me the push to continue on this path.  I find strength in their ability and reassure myself that I got this one!  I have learned (the hard way sometimes) you are held accountable for your actions! People are watching and on PEI opinions are formed quite quickly.

I have stepped out of my comfort zone and it was by far the most amazing experience.  I wish only I had done it sooner.  My 20’s made me who I am today at 30.  I have no regrets, no would have, could have, I wish I did…….  I have had struggles and won most of my battles all of which have made me a stronger person.  I have met so many wonderful people and I am truly honored to have been given that opportunity.  I have realized that from time to time we need help and it is ok to ask or accept offers.

I have learned that getting your sexy back takes time and patience…..Not pretty when your pants split at work with your OLD and I mean OLD Pink Granny Panties play peek-a-boo as you walk.  (and my pants splitting, I mean top to bottom wide open!) 

I have discovered, if you want something you better be willing and able to work for it.  Not everything comes easy.  For any advice on this, I would suggest to make sure it is worth fighting for. 

I have no ability to bake, this I have learned the hard way many times.  I can however cook and that is all that matters to me! J 

I discovered the ability to be a leader and step up for any challenge offered or presented.  I found the joy of volunteering and seeing how rewarding it is.

I experienced some pretty hard losses of friends and family, all of which have made me realize the importance of family.  It has shown me to let go of the past, and to let go of any grudges and forgive without forgetting.  I have found my ability to listen and offer an ear to someone in need.  I have also learned too that not everyone wants to hear my venting too! haha

I have learned to its ok to cry and the value of a compliment.  I have learned to give credit where credit is due. I have discovered the pleasure of “pay it forward”.  Good things come to good people.

I discovered child birth was easy peasy! (I didn’t have any experience really? 2 easy c-sections) and I can produce some BIG beautiful babies!!  Kailyn Tracy Anne and Ava Jenae Kathleen have made me a better person and taught me the valuable lesson of patience.  They continue to “test” my ability.  I hope that I can relay some of my discovery and learnings to them as they grow into beautiful women.  Rodney has taught me how to be strong, and has shown me what happiness really is.

I am very thankful for my 20’s in teaching me how to live and love. Showing me the value of respect. Learning many lessons, and discovering my abilities.  It allowed me to be courageous and shine in the moment.  Most of all my 20’s taught me about the woman I want to be.  I hope in reading this I turned out just how I hoped. I hope I hang on to some qualities I discovered in my 20’s, and gain new experiences and continue to think outside the box and step out of my comfort zone, after all that is where all the fun is.

Don’t ever be afraid to tell someone you Love them!

Autumn Getson

30 Before 30 Massage!

I have had the most pleasurable experience with losing my “massage virginity”.  Yes I know, In all of my 29 years I have NEVER had a massage.  Maybe a quick back rub at the most.  I know eh!

I had no idea what I was missing out on.  Beth Mackenzie RMT and Owner of Health Conscious Therapeutic Massage volunteered her services to helping me cross off another item on my list.

It was so fun crossing this one off!! I felt like a limp noodle walking out of there and I was on cloud nine!

She let me experience Hot Stones! Yes I got Stoned! (tehehe) And it was amazing!  I loved every second of it….except that part where it was over!

I am going to be booking more massages more often in the very near future!

If you get a chance you should experience this for yourself! I promise you will not be disappointed! J

I owe Beth a HUGE thank you for allowing me the opportunity to cross off that item! Thank you to her and everyone else who is following me on my journey to 30.  But just to be clear I will remain 29 with a years experience.

(902) 566-4985      549 North River Road, Charlottetown, PEI, C1E 1J6
Please note her office will be moving as of October 1st.  Call for details :)

30 Before 30 Poker Party

Poker Night Success!

 

Crossed another one off the old bucket list!! Poker party was beyond fun.  And even though I never played poker before, I bluffed my way to the win!!! Well.....Kind of..... it was the wee hours of the morning and we were getting tired so we decided to split the pot!  I managed to get enough money to pay for just about all of the room for the night.

 

It was more than just a little poker party, it was a chance to pretend I was on vacation, eat junk, drink wine and beer and relax!  Oh and eat drunk gummy bears.....I highly recommend drunk gummy bears!!! Best idea ever!! Well..... Yes and no.  Those suckers pack a powerful punch!! Especially the next morning.....

 

The poker party proved success in getting to know some friends better and having many laughs and just letting loose.  There were bonds made and stories told.  I can't wait to have another one!!! 

 

I really need to thank all who came out to "play" It wouldn't have happened if it wasn't for you.  Thank you for being a part of my 30 before 30 memories.  I will truly cherish them for ever.

 

 

 

 

Letting It All Hang Out.....30 before 30

OK, Here Goes Nothing....... Crossed off the hardest one yet!! Losing 20 lbs!! Maybe a little inspiration for you to drop unwanted pounds (if you have some!)

Just a little motivation, maybe make you lose your appetite? lol  Just putting this out there......I can't believe I am doing this.....

First picture is January of this year.....Hard work and determination with many bumps in the road.  I am not "training" for any competitions, only the one for a fit healthy happy mom!  I am a busy mom with small children.  I fall off track time to time, but always sprint and jump back on.  After all, I am human and I like to indulge every now and again just like everyone else.

Weight loss takes a long time and there is no pill or quick fix,  Just hard work and eating healthy!!!  It took a long time for me to finally come to terms with "You cannot out exercise a bad diet!"  Believe me I have tried. 

If you are willing to jump on the wagon, (it is ok to fall off every now and then....Just make sure you jump back on) You will gain control of your life, have more positive thoughts, increased confidence and get your sexy back. 

I promise!! The only down fall is, you have to work for it.  Fuel your bodies for the hard exercises and get out everything you put into those exercises.  Push out of your comfort zone and get that Can Do attitude! I know you can do it! Now it is your turn to prove to yourself you can do it too!

30 Things to do before I am 30 - Updated

1.      Pin-up Model Photo Shoot  (Revised to Boudoir photo session booked for January)

2.      Mechanical Bull Ride

3.      Take my parents out to dinner 

4.      Eat "Clean" for a day (no processed foods)

5.      First Tattoo (maybe)

6.      Take a cooking class (April 14^th)

7.      Go one full day without technology – Impossible! Technology is everywhere! I guess I didn’t think that one through!

8.      Complete a 5k walk/run/jog

9.      Take a new class at the gym

10.  Take a trip

11.  Visit a Strip Club with my Besties Revised went to a house party with a srtipper!

12.  Play Poker

13.  Buy an expensive bottle of wine

14.  Surprise someone

15.  Have a pajama girls night with my little ones!!  Changed up the hotel for our living room!  Just as fun

16.  Write a letter to my future self

17.   Bake a cake for someone special

18.  Encourage others to set and succeed at reaching their goals

19.  Drop 20 lbs (Over half way there)

20.  Go one full day with no coffee! I feel like I cheated on this one! I was too sick to drink coffee yesterday.

21.  Go Fishing (eeeewwww)

22.  Do a cleanse

23.  Buy a bathing suit

24.  Write a blog about my 30 before 30 journey

25.  Milk a cow with Angela Flood

26.  Start an emergency fund

27.  Get a massage

28.  Waxing!! Eeekkk Ouch!

29.  Learn something new

30.  Visit a museum

Updated 30 before 30 list

30 Things to do before I am 30

1.      Pin-up Model Photoshoot 

2.      Mechanical Bull Ride

3.      Take my parents out to dinner  

4.      Eat "Clean" for a day (no processed foods)

5.      First Tattoo (maybe)

6.      Take a cooking class (scheduled for April 14th)

7.      Go one full day without technology

8.      Complete a 5k walk/run/jog

9.      Take a new class at the gym

10.  Take a trip

11.  Visit a Strip Club with my Besties

12.  Play Poker

13.  Buy an expensive bottle of wine

14.  Surprise someone

15.  Have a pajama girls night with my little ones at a hotel!!

16.  Write a letter to my future self

17.   Bake a cake for someone special

18.  Encourage others to set and succeed at reaching their goals (I will never stop this)

19.  Drop 20 lbs (over half way there)

20.  Go one full day with no coffee!

21.  Go Fishing (eeeewwww)

22.  Do a cleanse

23.  Buy a bathing suit

24.  Write a blog about my 30 before 30 journey

25.  Milk a cow with Angela Flood

26.  Start an emergency fund

27.  Get a massage

28.  Waxing!! Eeekkk Ouch!

29.  Learn something new

30.  Visit a museum

My Learn to Run Experience

My Learn to Run Experience

Well this was definitely a first for me.  I joined the Learn to Run program in Charlottetown and due to work scheduling I was un able to complete this and was a little disappointed to say the least.

I was excited to hear that there was a Learn to Run 5 km starting up in Cornwall, so I immediately sent an email asking for details.  I must have sent like 10….I was a little excited.

They didn’t have anyone confirmed to lead this program and without a leader it may not have taken place.  I couldn’t let that happen so I volunteered to help out.  Which meant I would be leading this 10 week program.  Me, someone who hasn’t run a 5 k yet was going to lead a group, a running group.

I was super excited to be learning along side of all the other individuals to didn’t let fear stand in their way, I thought how hard could it be…..

I wasn’t expecting very many to show up and I was prepared to do more talking than running….  Well when I showed up for our first official night I was blown away by the amount of people there.  Shocked!  There were about 38 people standing in the lobby at the Cornwall APM centre waiting for their Running Coach to give them some tips and tricks and be off and running…..I froze….fear set in.  How was I going to do this, I have never even run a 5 km race, I don’t really know a thing about running.  But by that time there was no turning back, I was there and committed so off we went.

Of course as the weeks went on the group dropped in attendance, but we still maintained a rather large group of 10 – 15 each night for most of the 10 week program.  They even showed up in the rain ready to run.  I think this was their pay back for me "tooting" that whistle all the time! There was nothing holding back this group or myself.

We finished our program and participated in the “official” T’was One Month Before Christmas run.  There was lots of excitement and a little bit of fear all mixed in.  Before we knew it, we were off and running.  Everyone done a fantastic job and even beat some of the time goals they had set for themselves.   It was a wonderful experience.  We were even lucky enough to have a picture or two of us crossing the finish line with that huge smile and glowing with accomplishment.

I am truly blessed to have had this opportunity!  This experience has also let me realize that I can do it! And You can do it too!! Don’t let the fear of the unknown stand in the way of your dreams.

Eat Clean Train Dirty

Oh my....where do I even begin.....

So as many of you know I have set a goal....(achievable with great difficulty and dedication) and as you can tell by my posts that I have been giving this an honest go....what you may not know is, I am signed up for Fitness Theory and Group Fitness Leadership with Fitness New Brunswick!  I know eh....

This may not lead to anything other than just seeing if I can do it! And I love motivating others and encouraging others to do what they can and help them eliminate their excuses, so I figured why not!  I have nothing to lose and everything to gain (unless we are talking weight here).  I was watching the class times and locations closely and trying to justify going away for the weekend and forking out some serious cash to take this course (travel, hotel, food...)  I kept putting it off and it was just merely a dream.   During a quiet day at the office I decided to check out their website one more time....just to day dream a bit... and what would you know....The course was offered right here in little PEI!!!!  There I just had an excuse taken away from me....so I have to do it!!

I realize I have a lot to work on with myself, but I plan on Eating Clean and Training Dirty!!  I have been going pretty strong in the last month.  Usually putting in some sort of activity every day.  I have set a goal to do a minimum of 30 minutes per day of something....  I would love to have a personal trainer to train with every day, but the old bank account doesn't allow for that.  I am going to do my best with what I have!  Hopefully it will work out in the end! : )

I decided to take another Fit Camp at Naturally Fit and had the dreaded measurements taken.....WOW  what a reality check that was!  I was/am a little discouraged at how far I still have to go with my fitness/weight loss goals.....But this will just add to my motivation to do it.

I have a wonderful group of people to keep me going and will help me stay on track and stay true to my word.

I just had a challenge directed my way to run a half marathon....This I am pondering, but at the same time seriously considering.  I have accomplished a lot in the last year, more than I had ever thought I could in a lifetime!  So, I am still up in the air, but will begin "training" in the spring.  I have some runners who would like to run their first half marathon too, so it would end up being a very emotional first for everyone!

On a lighter note, I have a room at the Delta booked to host Ladies Only Poker Night and to cross off another item on the 30 before 30 list....Time seems to be running out. 
I will be 30 September 13.....eeeekkksss...

So back on track with a mind set to EAT CLEAN and TRAIN DIRTY. (with a few exceptions....I am only human)

Much love and I will be back to tell you all about the poker night....which reminds me....I have to learn how to play poker! :)