Transformation Tuesday: Kylee E.

Tell us about your life before you started the program. How did you feel about yourself and your body?
I was never the skinny or athletic girl in high school, I always ate what I wanted. I was always trying to lose weight. I have tried every diet out there. I even tried P90X with my sister a few years back, but always found an excuse to give up. I had my 2nd child in October, 2013; I tried staying active but wasn’t watching what I ate while I was pregnant. I gained 30 lbs with her.  After I had my baby I was determined to lose the weight, and get back into my jeans. I wanted to look good in a bikini for summer, and I was far from that. I had completed INSANITY before and knew I could do it again. I have never been happy with my body, and wanted to feel great about myself, so this was a must for me to get back into shape. I am now in better shape, and look better after 2 kids than I have ever looked in my life!

What inspired you to change your life and begin your transformation journey?
My kids inspired me to get healthier; I wanted them to live a healthier lifestyle. Also, summer was coming and I wanted to look good in a bikini. I wanted to feel good on the outside as well as the inside. I had 2 kids to keep up with, and I wanted to get into shape for them.

What is the greatest challenge you faced before beginning the program? How did the program and Beachbody® help you overcome that challenge?
Changing my eating habits was hard; it was my biggest struggle. The working out came easier than I thought it would; I loved that feeling afterwards.  I started following the INSANITY food guide, reading up on clean eating, and logging everything I ate. I had a great support system to keep me going; my husband, my sister, and mom were always there for me.

What in particular did you like about the program you chose?
I have actually completed INSANITY, P90X3, 21 Day Fix, PiYo, and am now almost finished with Body Beast. They are all incredible programs in there own way. I have actually never been to a gym in my life; I’ve always be an at home workout person! Thank you Beachbody!

Describe the results you achieved with your Beachbody program. Which achievements are you proud of?
I have a 6 pack; I never in my life thought I would see a six pack, especially after having kids. I have gained strength, muscle definition, flexibility and, most important,energy!

How has your life changed since completing your Beachbody program?
I have never been happier than with the way life is now. I am more positive, and tell people “If I can do it, so can you”. I finally feel good about myself and have self confidence.

How did a Beachbody Supplement or Nutritional Product or Program (such as Shakeology® or Beachbody Ultimate Reset®) support your transformation? What are the greatest benefits you gained? Did you see benefits to your energy, sleep, mood/mental clarity, digestion/regularity?
Shakeology makes me feel energetic, lose my sweet cravings, and it helped me lose those last few pounds I needed to lose.

You can change your life, too. Take the Beachbody Challenge for the tools you need to Decide, Commit, and Succeed! Complete any Beachbody program, and enter your results for a free gift and a chance to win cash and prizes.

Need a coach to help get you started?  Email me with any questions at candace@flabbymomtofitmom.com

*Original article featured on teambeachbody.com - check out their blog for MORE inspirational articles!

MINDSET MONDAY! Why you should be your biggest fan!

Post in the comments something that you LOVE about yourself TODAY! 

Transformation Tuesday: MY 21 Day Fix Extreme Results!

So, there I was on day 1...

Feeling like a failure because my body had gone NUTS after my hysterectomy and finding what I could eat and couldn't eat and what exercise my body would respond to and wouldn't respond to felt nearly hopeless. I felt bloated, tired, and hopeless. Like I had not only failed myself, but the people who were looking to me for weightloss and health living motivation. BUT, I pressed on - hoping and praying that this new program and the meal plan would help me get out of this rut I was in, that I would FINALLY find something that would give me the results that I was after. 

AND - it DID!  The 21 Day Fix Extreme and Shakeology were a God send when I really needed one. I followed the Countdown to Competition plan for 2 of the 3 weeks of the program - as best a stay at home mama who is regularly fed by her children can. I resisted some of the things that they offered me, but not all. And, the second week, my son was on Spring Break, so that week was all over the place with my nutrition AND my workouts. 

But, with all of that being said, I have found a program and meal plan that work for my post-hysterectomy body! It's exciting and a source of relief! 

I lost a total of 6 lbs (even with my crazy week 2) and 8 inches! 

If you would like help with your health and fitness or would like to be a part of my next online accountability group, please fill out this form--->http://goo.gl/forms/k4MwMP4b7E

I would love for us to reach our health and fitness goals TOGETHER! <3

(email any questions to me at candace@flabbymomtofitmom.com)

You're Invited!

Currently opening the doors of my online business to others who are looking to create a potential six figure income or simply create a side income opportunity.

I am looking for teachable individuals who have a passion for helping others.

(This is an ideal job for those is the teaching field).

I will send you a 5 Day Email Sneak Peek into how I created a full time income, working it part time. I will also cover:
>Compensation
>Team Environment
> Paid for Travel Opportunities
>Benefits and perks
>Training materials
>More!

All you need is an email learn more! Leave your email below, or send me a private message.

*non-coaches only please.

Paleo Banana Bread with Pecans

So, I don't know about y'all, but when it is cold outside, I CRAVE comfort foods! One of my absolute faves is banana nut bread -- but it's not exactly on my current diet plan. So, what's a girl to do during an ice storm when she has a craving? Hit up Pinterest for a cleaner, leaner recipe - of course! The recipe I decided to give a try was found at [Inspire & Indulge]...and it was delicious...here's the recipe.

[Paleo] Banana Bread
Inspired by Civilized Caveman Cooking
Makes 8 slices
Ingredients

• 4 ripe bananas
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut butter)
• 1.5 tablespoons coconut oil
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup coconut flour
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• optional: 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg or all-spice, 1/4 teaspoon cloves
• optional: dried cranberries, orange zest, chocolate chips, chopped pecans (I added 3/4 cup chopped pecans - 1/2 c. mixed in batter, 1/4 c. on top)

What to Do

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees (F) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. Add the ripe bananas, eggs, almond butter, coconut oil, honey and vanilla extract to your blender.  (Remember, you can melt your coconut oil by placing the jar in a bowl of hot tap water.)
3. Blend on high for 15-20 seconds, scraping down sides if necessary.
4. Add the coconut flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and optional ingredients.
5. Blend on high for 20-30 seconds, scraping down sides if necessary.
6. Pour batter into your loaf pan.
7. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until inserted knife comes out clean.
8. Allow the loaf to cool slightly then slice and enjoy.

GUEST BLOG from Kendra Thornton: Fit Family, Happy Life

GUEST BLOG

FIT FAMILY, Happy Life!

Many thanks to Ms. Thornton for offering a guest blog on keeping your family happy and healthy!

Kendra Thornton, travel expert and FIT mom to 3!

Travel advocate, TV spokesperson, PR businesswoman, proud wife andmama of 3. Kendra is a long time travel expert who has been packing her bags and traveling the world since she was 3 months old! She has found her utmost desire in life is right in her own home. She has taken her excitement for travel and brought it to you with some of her favorite travel tips and tricks. Enjoy!
(Bio provided by Kendra Thornton)

Kendra is an expert on travel, having been the Director of Corporate Communications at Orbitz prior to founding Thornton Public Relations in 2005.

 

 

Fit Family - Happy Life

by Kendra Thornton

Keep moving – that’s what I always do. I can’t help but move with my three busy kids. Being active is just a part of my life. But that’s what gave me the idea to stay fit, whether at home or on the road. I like the way it makes me feel and I like the way being in shape lets me keep up with kids. So, since it is Fit Family Lifestyles this month, I’ve decided to share some of my tips and tricks for staying healthy while I’m out on the road. Incorporating these in your lifestyle will keep you looking great and feeling great:

Fresh Air

Get outside. Plain and simple. The benefits of fresh air are well documented. If you are on the road, make an effort to stop at rest stops and parks. When the kids say they need a bathroom break, take it. Then walk around outside, stretching your legs and breathing in that fresh air that is so good for you. Walking around outside will also allow everyone to burn off some of that energy they have pent up from riding for so long, which will make the next leg of the trip easier… at least for a little while. Even will this cold weather - if you’re traveling to a chilly destination, go ice-skating, snowshoeing, or even try skiing...utilize the outside atmosphere!

Munch

Even when you are sedentary, sitting in a car or plane immobile for long stretches of time, your body needs nourishment. Pack snacks, and lots of them. Choose easy to eat snacks that won’t make a mess, like pretzels, bananas, string cheese, maybe even some trail mix – make it yourself with raisins, peanuts, dried banana slices, dried coconut, and some M&Ms… no one said you couldn’t have a little treat here and there!

 

Don’t Forget the Sneaks!

Amidst all of your pool wear, dinner outfits, sandals, flip-flops, and high heels, pack a pair of sneakers. Who knows when you’ll want to go on a run before everyone else gets up or watch the sunset as you jog.

 

Set Yourself Up for Success

Babies need their routines to be as close to what they experience at home as possible when they are away. This is not only good for them, but also for the parents! Be sure to bring their pillow with the pillowcase they always use on it, their favorite books, and anything else they might need like a pacifier, noise machine, sleep sack, a special blanket, etc. Ease baby to sleep and get some much needed rest of your own as well.

Plan Your Trip

It’s always good to know what you want to do on a trip. This is especially true when traveling with children. Be sure to include hiking trails and theme parks, even outdoor museums where the kids can not only enjoy themselves, but stay active as well.

These are the things I do and they work wonders for my family. I extend a lot of these ideas to school time also, continuing to pack healthy snacks in their lunch bags and getting them outdoors and active as often as possible. You can get outside any time of year. During this season, my family really enjoys making snowmen and going skiing! What kinds of things does your family like to do?

You can find Kendra on Twitter & Facebook - go follow her and show her some love!



Tasty Thursday: Turkey Lasagna with Homemade

Tasty Thursday

 

 

I happened upon this recipe while thumbing through the latest Clean Eating magazine and bought the darn thing JUST for this recipe. It. Is. DELICIOUS.

 

I urge you to make it right now. Tonight. Just do it...soon. You will love it as much as my family and I did. I promise.

 

 

Ingredients:

1 Tbsp olive oil

1 white onion, chopped

1 large carrot, peeled and chopped

1 large celery stalk, chopped

4 cloves garlic, chopped

1/2 tsp dried oregano

2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar

2 28-oz. BPA-free cans unsalted whole tomatoes with basil (TRY: Eden Organic Whole Tomatoes with Basil)

1 Tbsp raw honey

1/2 tsp sea salt, divided

1 tsp fresh ground black pepper, divided, plus additional to taste

1 9 oz. package frozen chopped spinach

olive oil cooking spray

1 lb ground turkey

15 oz. reduced fat ricotta cheese, drained

1/3 cup loosely packed chopped fresh basil leaves

12 whole wheat lasagna noodles (no boil or boiled at home)

4 oz. reduced fat, grated Italian four cheese blend

 

Instructions:

1. In a Dutch oven or large saucepan on medium-high heat, heat oil. Add onion, carrot, and celery and cook until soft and lightly browned, 10-12 minutes. Add garlic and oregano and cook, stirring constantly, 1 minute. Add vinegar and let bubble for 10-20 seconds, scraping any browned bits in bottom of pan. Add tomatoes and stir to combine, breaking up with a spoon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium to medium-low and maintain a steady simmer. Cook for 1 hour, stirring every 10 to 15 minutes, until thickened. Stir in honey, 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp. pepper.

 

2. Using an immersion blender, blend sauce to slightly chunky puree. Boil noodles as directed on package at this time, if they are no boil noodles, skip this step.

 

3. Place spinach in fine mess strainer and press firmly to drain. Mist a large skillet with cooking spray and heat on medium-high. Add turkey and cook, breaking up with spoon until no longer pink, 6-7 minutes. Add spinach, remaining 1/4 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper and cook, stirring frequently, until heated through, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl.

 

4. In a second bowl, combine ricotta and basil. Season with additional black pepper.

 

5. Spread 1/4 cup sauce inside a 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with 4 noodles, half of ricotta, one third of cheese blend, half of turkey and one cup sauce. Repeat once more, starting with noodles and ending with sauce. Top with remaining noodles, remaining sauce, and remaining cheese blend. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake until cheese is melted and sauce is bubbling, 5 to 10 minutes more. Rest for 15 minutes before serving.

 

Nutrients per serving (1/10 of lasagna):

Calories - 253, Total Fat - 9g, Sat. Fat - 4g, Monounsaturated Fat - 3g, Polyunsaturated Fat - 2g, Carbs - 30g, Fiber - 5g, Sugars - 8g, Protein - 24g, Sodium - 310mg, Cholesterol - 44mg

 

 

For more recipes, tips, motivation, and help with losing weight FROM HOME -- follow me on Facebook at Flabby Mom to FIT Mom ...I look forward to helping YOU reach your goals! If you would like me to be your FREE coach - please sign up here!



 

 

Waistline Wednesday : Update Postponed...

Waistline Wednesday

Update Postponed...

 

My Waistline Wednesday update is postponed until next Wednesday for the following reasons:

1. My official two week progress will be on Monday, January 27th, so I'll take update photos and measurements then.

2. My monthly visit is here and frankly, even though I've been busting my booty, I feel like a busted can of biscuits.

And, on that note, I shall share an extremely helpful and interesting article to help YOU avoid the Physique Misery Syndrome that I am currently suffering from. The article was written by Shannon Clark over at bodybuilding.com.

4 Ways Your Menstrual Cycle Affects Your Workouts

by: Shannon Clark

     PMS might as well stand for Physique Misery Syndrome. From firsthand experience, I can tell you that the appearance changes caused by your menstrual cycle can be significant. One morning I'll wake up and see clear ab definition, causing me to feel excited that my hard work in the gym and kitchen has been paying off. Then the next morning, I'll wake up only to find that my abs are as easy to find as a prim-and-proper tabloid shot of Britney Spears. I know when to expect it, so I can don't panic. And the problem vanishes after about a week, as quickly as it came. Still...
The symptoms of PMS vary by individual. They can range from feeling like a nuisance to turning your life upside down for a week. The classic PMS symptoms include water retention and bloating, irritability, strong cravings, appetite changes, fluctuations in pain tolerance, as well as differences in your energy level. Simply put, for the week or two before your period hits, the last thing on your mind is putting in a hard workout or eating healthfully. You want to eat chocolate, ice cream, and pizza while lying on the couch. If you're dedicated to the gym, PMS can leave you feeling psychologically devastated.

Click To Enlarge.PMS can also limit your performance in the gym,
but you can minimize the negative effects.

And don't think this just affects you mentally and appearance-wise, either. PMS can also limit your performance in the gym, making any effort you do put forth less than productive.
The good news? By learning what impact your menstrual cycle has on key factors influencing your workout performance and your body composition, you can minimize the negative effects.
Let's look at some of the key intersections between your cycle and your workouts:

Measuring Your Metabolic Rate

One of the most important factors that you must take into account if you're currently trying to melt off those last 10 pounds of body fat is your metabolic rate. That's a fancy term for how many calories you burn over 24 hour. It'll vary not only from person to person but also from day to day in the same person.
If you're highly stressed out, your metabolism may rev a bit. On the other hand, if you've been following a very-low-calorie diet for a couple of weeks now, you're likely finding that your metabolism has slowed down.
Your cycle also influences your metabolic rate. During the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle—the week or so before your period is set to begin—you'll burn up calories faster than at all other times throughout the month. Researchers measure increases in total energy expenditure of 2.5 to 11% during this time.
This may not seem like all that much, but if you're dieting, it'll make a difference.

However, most women also experience an increase in appetite during this period. They're hungrier and more prone to cravings. The net result is that they end up consuming more calories than they're expending through this increase in their metabolic rate. They're burning more, but there's more to burn.

So one important take-home message from this is that if you're currently dieting, and will continue dieting through your cycle, be extra careful about your adherence during the week before your period. You could easily undo your weight-loss efforts.

Beat The Bloat — Get On Track To A Leaner Stomach

Another of the biggest cycle-related complaints among fit women concerns bloating. It's not abnormal at all for women to take on 5 to 10 extra pounds of water during their cycle. As you can imagine, this can have an unsettling effect on the reflection in the mirror.
One morning, you may wake up impressed with the degree of definition your body is showing. The next morning, you might see what looks like a blanket of fat covering what used to be those defined muscles. That's not fat; it's just excess water retention caused by female hormones, mainly estrogen. If you're on birth control pills that have a high estrogen level, talk to your doctor about changing meds to an alternative with lower estrogen levels. In theory that should mean less bloating every month.

Other strategies you can employ to help lessen water retention:

1. Avoid salty foods
2. Drink more water than usual
3. Sip some herbal tea
4. Season your foods with oregano

Setting The Table For Success

Avoid starting on a fat-loss diet plan during the luteal phase, for the reasons mentioned above. Since you'll be at a higher risk of experiencing hunger during this time of the month—and that hunger will also likely lead to greater incidences of food cravings—beginning your diet during this phase raises the odds of backsliding. Instead, cycle your calories. Bring your calorie intake much lower during the two weeks immediately proceeding your period, when hunger levels are lower and cravings less frequent. Then increase your calorie intake back to a maintenance level during the week before and during your period.
This will help mitigate that natural increase in hunger coming your way. But it will also help reset your metabolism. So if your metabolism is slowing down at all due to the reduced calorie intake, you bring that rate back up again through this increased food intake. Once you move back to dieting after your period is over, you're burning body fat as fast as possible.
Additionally, since you'll already be dealing with increased bloating during the week before your period, staying strict with your diet may be tough anyway. If there's one time of the month you should be taking a break, well, this would be it. Since you're also burning up calories at a slightly elevated rate during this time, the extra calories will stand a lower chance of being deposited as body fat. That's yet another advantage of taking a short diet break during the early luteal period of your menstrual cycle.

Smart Structuring Of Your Workout Plan

As for your workouts, there are some additional considerations to take into account as they relate to your menstrual cycle.

• First, keep in mind that your body temperature will rise during the luteal phase of your cycle. So if you're performing intense workouts—which also raise body temp—you may become uncomfortable, and hence unable to sustain very high intensities.
• A second thing to bear in mind is that your tolerance for pain will be higher during the follicular phase of the cycle, after menstruation takes place. So it makes sense to place your harder workouts, the ones where you really plan to push yourself, during this time. You'll find that you have a higher level of tenacity. Time to push through and hit some new personal bests!
• Carrying excess water weight throughout the luteal phase will also affect workout performance, especially if the workout includes running. That added weight will make you feel like you're working harder than usual.

Keep Making Progress

So keep these factors in the back of your mind as you go about your workout and diet routine during your cycle. By more clearly understanding the changes taking place within your body, you can help reduce the chances of them affecting you negatively. Until you hit menopause, you can't change the fact that your period will arrive each and every month. But you can keep it from disturbing your workouts and body progress!
References:

1. Davidsen, L. et al. (2007). Impact of the Menstrual Cycle on Determinants of Energy Balance: A putative role in weight loss attempts. International Journal of Obesity. 31, 887-890.
2. Price, D. et al. (1998). A meta-analytic review of pain perception across the menstrual cycle. Journal of the International Association for the Study Of Pain. Vol. 81, Issue 3. Pp. 225-235.
3. X.A.K.J., De Jonge. (2003). Effects of the Menstrual Cycle on Exercise Performance. Sports Medicine. Vol. 33, No. 11.

 

Fit Tip Friday: Fit Family Lifestyle Month!

Fit Tip Friday

 

 

Did you know that the month of January is not only the month of personal resolutions, but it is also the month to really get your family in on the act!  It's officially Fit Family Lifestyles Month! (I had no idea until a kind reader emailed and pointed it out, Thanks Kendra!)

 

So, today, I thought that I would share five tips to keep your healthy habits all in the family! :)

 

1. BE THE EXAMPLE!  Be the example that you want your children to model. If they need to get moving a little more, you need to get moving yourself!  If they are eating a lot of junk -- it's usually because they see one or both parents enjoying the not so healthy stuff. If they need to drink more water, start drinking more water yourself!  You're probably dehydrated anyway. ;)

 

2. KEEP EACH OTHER ON BOARD!  If you're making getting healthy a family affair, it's pretty difficult to hang out inside while the rest of the family is outside playing and having a good time. Cheer one another on as you learn new ways to move your body and as progress is made!

 

3. PUT IT ON THE CALENDAR! Schedule your fitness as you would any other appointment. If your family has made a commitment to walk every evening after dinner -- put it on the calendar and keep that commitment as if it were any other important appointment!

 

4. REWARD YOURSELVES! If your family has stuck to the program and has done their daily movement and healthy eating with little to no complaint for 3 days or so, have a family game night! Or, if they've committed to a sporting league, get them a new piece of gear as a reward for making that healthy commitment!

 

5. KEEP IT FUN!  This is the most important, especially for small children. If they are not deriving some sort of enjoyment from an activity, they are less likely to continue to do it on a regular basis. So, keep it interesting and keep them interested by doing things that they enjoy. If you have children that are total opposites (say, one is wild and one is calm) - alternate between activities that one or the other would enjoy more, that way each child (and parent!) experiences something that they otherwise would have written off. Who knows they may end up loving soccer or football, when they otherwise would have been hanging out on the couch.

 

 

For more recipes, tips, motivation, and support - come join me at Flabby Mom to FIT Mom on Facebook!



My Tips for Dining Out

   

    Being a Mom, I’ve learned to plan ahead. Having a back up plan is also a good thing.

    The same thing goes when eating out. Be prepared to be bombarded with the specials of the day and the temptations that are always offered at the end of the meal. Have a plan. If you can, cook at home. This way you know exactly what you’re putting in your body and are able to cook your food exactly the way you NEED it to be, if you are trying to improve your diet and lose weight/get healthy.

If you MUST go out:

(Tips adapted from Tosca Reno's "Stripped" book.)

1. Develop a “healthy” Mindset. Before dining at a restaurant, make the plan to automatically ask for a to-go box so that when your entrée hits your table, you can put half into the box to go. Out of sight, out of mind and staying in your caloric range for the day.

2. Listen to your body-  By all means, enjoy your food. Enjoy each bite! But, eat for the purpose of satisfying your hunger. Listen to what your body (not your mind) is telling you and remember to keep your goal in mind! If you need to (and I'm one that does this!) put a copy of your "goal" or motivation photo in your handbag or wallet to look at at the beginning of the meal.

3. Hold the bread! Remember this is not helping you achieve your weight loss goal.

4. Start green. Start your meal with a house salad, but have them hold the dressing. Squeeze a lemon wedge or two over your leafy greens or ask for some balsamic vinegar.

5. Soup's the name of the game. No salad options on the menu? To curb your hunger so you’re not ravenous by the time your entrée shows up try a broth-based soup.

6. Check for Clean Cooking. Look for entrée options featuring grilled, baked, or roasted meats or fish and steamed or raw veggies. If they aren’t listed on the menu, ask the server to prepare it that way. (No, it's not rude to ask the kitchen to prepare your meal to your standards.)

7. “Fletcherize.” The practice of chewing each mouthful a minimum of 25 times. It gives your body a chance to recognize when you are becoming full. Yes, this practice takes some time to get used to, but is well worth it to practice. You become completely aware of when you are full.

9. No Drink for me, please. You want to avoid alcohol because sugar can derail you in the most powerful way. Have sparkling water with lemon or lime slices.

10. Stop before the end. Think of your plan to shed those pounds, if you can’t resist something sweet ask if they have fresh fruit and have 1 cup. Leave it at that.

My personal favorite tips are to look up the restaurant menu ahead of time online. That way you can go in with a plan written down - no need to even look at the menu the waiter/waitress will hand you. Or, don't be afraid to ask them to cook exactly what you need to reach your goals. Most restaurants have a lean meat or fish and plenty of greens (most have broccoli, green beans, asparagus, or salad) to satisfy you and your goals.

Remember to follow me on Facebook at Flabby Mom to FIT Mom for more tips and motivation!

Motivation Monday: What motivates YOU?!

Motivation Monday

   What motivates you to pursue a dream, achieve a goal, step outside of your comfort zone?? I know that for me, seeing others achieve success in their professional/personal life helps to motivate me to emulate their success in my own life. It's not so much a competition with them as it is with myself. To be stronger, better, faster, more efficient, more fit, more healthy, just MORE than I was the previous day.  It's not about power, money, fame, etc. for me -- it's about the challenge with myself.

  For example, right now, as you all know, I am pursuing my goal of completing ChaLEAN Extreme again and getting 10 lbs off of me by New Years. I still have 7 lbs to get to that goal and only a few weeks to do it. I know that my eating hasn't been 100% and my workouts this past week were less than perfect -- so over the next 3 weeks, I will be very strict with my diet and really push myself with my workouts to reach my goal!

  I also have a business goal of reaching Diamond rank in my Beachbody business by New Years. In order to do that, I will have to not only step outside of my comfort zone in speaking to new people, but actually discussing the business side of Beachbody with them. It's one of those things that make me nervous -- so much so that I break out in a sweat. I WILL do it, though, because I have committed to the goal -- not only to myself, but to others close to me.

   So, I ask YOU -- what motivates you to do what you do?  Leave me a comment below -- I love to hear about what makes others tick. :)

 

 

 

Workout Wednesday: What IS ChaLEAN Extreme??

Workout Wednesday: What IS ChaLEAN Extreme??

 

     I know, you've read about me re-starting my journey with this program ChaLEAN Extreme.  And, I know that you've probably been wondering exactly what ChaLEAN Extreme involves...well, check out this quick video to see what I'm doing everyday and to learn more about what's included in the program.

 

 

 

I personally know the results that this program can produce because I used it exclusively, along with Shakeology, to lose nearly 60 pounds in 6 months. After 30 days, the phase is switched and you're body is left guessing -- revving your metabolism and burning off fat!  My first two rounds, I only had 5, 8, and 10 lb dumbbells to get me through all three phases, so I didn't really BUILD the muscle that I wanted, but I did burn a TON of fat!  This time around, I'm using the selecttech weights that Chalene uses in the videos. (Thanks to my sweet hubby, who bought them for us as a valentine's day gift!) So, I'm looking forward to really PUSHING myself throughout the Push phase of the program.

 

If you have any questions about the program, the nutrition plan included, or Shakeology, feel free to shoot me a message at cgranberrytaylor@gmail.com !

 

 

Keep following along with me on my journey!  I hope to help inspire and motivate other moms to go from flabby to FIT! Find me on Facebook at Flabby Mom to Fit Mom!

Motivation Monday: My newest transformation journey

On the road again...

 

 

   On the health and fitness road, that is. I admit it, I fell off track. Got distracted. Didn't care for two weeks. And, well, let's just say, my waistline has suffered for it. So, here they are, my official getting-back-on-track accountability photos. They are here for the entire world to see and help keep me on track - even...no, especially, through the holidays! 

 

 

   Now, onto what I will be doing to lose 10 lbs before New Years Eve...

 

I will be using my old faithful ChaLEAN Extreme and Shakeology.  I will be following the program as laid out in the guide, as well as, following the nutritional guide provided with the program. After the first 30 days - otherwise known as the Burn phase - I will be adding an extra 20-30 minutes of cardio per day throughout the next 30 days - called the Push phase.  The last 30 days of the program, I will be following as laid out. It's called the Lean Phase for a reason!  Check back every week for progress photos and your dose of motivation to push through YOUR workouts! 

 

 

   If you would like to join me in this journey, please shoot me an email at cgranberrytaylor@gmail.com  OR add me on Facebook and reference Flabby Mom to FIT Mom! 



Transformation Tuesday: Shanda N.

Transformation Tuesday: Shanda N.

 

 

Before Body Beast, I always struggled with so many things in my life. I was 30 lbs. too heavy. I would work out some, lose weight, then quit and gain it all (plus some more) back again. I dreaded summers because I hated the way I looked in a swimsuit. I had zero self-confidence. I was always so tired, I’d come home early and head straight to bed. I never wanted to buy new clothes because I never felt pretty. I was a mess and I needed help.

That’s when Body Beast changed my life. My boyfriend—who was a Beachbody Coach—said I should try Body Beast. He’d done it and got amazing results. So I said, ‘why not?’ It was tough, but he helped keep me accountable—and it worked.

I gradually started seeing results. I was losing weight, building muscle, and finding so much more energy than I ever had. I added Shakeology and that gave me the protein I needed, as well as extra enzymes and vitamins. My body transformed into a sculpted, petite figure and I felt like I looked like the fitness girls in magazines now. For the first time in my life, I felt good about myself.

Then the most awesome thing happened—I entered the Body Beast Classic at Summit...and I won!

I can’t tell you how much Body Beast changed my life. I owe everything to Beachbody, Sagi, and my coach.

If you need a coach, a friend, or are interested in the program that Shanda used, please feel free to contact me at cgranberrytaylor@gmail.com !  I would love to help you with you health and fitness journey!

Transformation Tuesday: Jamie P. - A Slim In 6 Journey

Mom Jamie P. lost 35 lbs and 36 inches with Slim In 6! She did the program for 6 weeks, then continued on to do another round. Check out her amazing results and her inspirational story below.

 

My life was BUSY, FAST and CRAZY! Just like it is now, however I have made my health a priority! That is just short of a miracle for me! I have never been a workout person, always active and living life to it's fullest but never made time to focus on my core body strength and have always eaten anything and everything that my heart or cravings desired. After my 3rd child I was tipping the scale at around 200 pounds.... I continued to eat like I was a food eating champ and was not happy with my body, the way I felt physically or my emotional state of being embarrassed about my body. I knew I could change it, but was just was not willing to put out the effort, which in turn made me feel more weak and pathetic. I started to not want to go out publicly if I did not have to. It was easier to stay home than face the world looking the way I did. I was not proud of "letting myself go."

I realized that what I was doing was not working, and for the past almost decade I had been overweight. I was not getting any younger, and even though I wished it to come true, I was not going to wake up one morning and be myself again. I was screaming inside to get OUT! A friend of mine who I trusted was starting a 90-Day Challenge. She trusted HER friend who was a coach through Team Beachbody and that made me feel comfortable to GO FOR IT! 

I pledged the following: I am about to embark on the most awesome adventure! The best thing I can do for myself (and my family).... and that is transform my body into who I am... what I deserve, what they deserve... and what is inside of me screaming to get back out!!!! HEALTH, STRENGTH and BALANCE! A fitness and health challenge is taking charge of my life! Support me... watch me grow on the inside and lose on the outside.

I chose Slim in 6 because it was recommended to me by my Team Beachbody Coach. I researched many different programs and felt this program would be a good start for me. The 6 weeks sounds appealing and the short 30 minute workout was a HUGE plus as well. I had not been working out and was starting fresh.... this was something I felt I could handle.

I LOVE the short amount of time and the intense EFFECTIVE routine! It REALLY works! My waist shrunk the fastest- it was amazing to feel that change! I was like a butterfly going through a metamorphosis! Slim in 6 focuses on your core strength. One of my friends hugged me one day and stepped back and gasped... "Oh my gosh I can feel your arm muscles." It was the back of my arms from the resistance band workouts! I felt so amazing! I had not even noticed those new muscles until she said something! ; ) They say it takes 4 weeks to notice a difference yourself.... 8 weeks for close family and friends to notice and 12 weeks for the world to notice... I LIVED THAT! It's SO true! I feel amazing because I HAVE EARNED every bit of my transformation!

Transformation Thursday: Rebecca P.

Obviously, if you follow my blog, I usually post these stories on Tuesdays, but I read Rebecca's story and know a few people that it MIGHT inspire, so I wanted to share it with you all today!

Meet Rebecca P. - she lost over 100 lbs. and 21" off of her WAIST -- read her story in her own words. Incredible!



Tell us about your life before you started the program. How did you feel about yourself and your body?* I have grown up my entire life over weight, I thought this is how I was meant to live and that was it. I tried to hide from cameras, I was embarrassed to be introduced to new people, and I hurt all over. I grew up being told that I would be so much prettier if I had lost weight by family and friends. I basically accepted that I would never be anything but the heavy girl. I was unable to do things I enjoyed with friends because I was to big, I couldn't fit in booths at restaurants, or in a normal seat at the doctors office, even some cars were uncomfortable. I FEARED being out in public because not being able to sit in a sit was scary, I dropped classes because the desk were so tight I did not want people to see me trying to sit in them.

What inspired you to change your life and begin your transformation journey?* After I had gotten married in April of 2011 I did my first 5K it took me over an hour to complete it and I was hurting ALL OVER. I was the last person to finish the race that day. So that, the fact I had been on bed rest due to my high blood pressure, and then having to have my wedding dress made because I was so big I couldn't buy one in my size I knew it was time to change. I was newly married and late 20s I was sick of always eating and sitting on the couch! My weight had caused me to have a miscarriage at 24 weeks pregnancy, stopped me from buying cars, clothes, you name it my weight was controlling me and I was tired of it! I was tired of seeing pictures of myself and not being happy with it.

 

What is the greatest challenge you faced before beginning the program? How did the program and Beachbody® help you overcome that challenge?* I have used Slim in 6, Les Mills Pump, Turbo Jam, TurboFire (which I now have been doing for over a year), and P90X to get where I am at a total weight loss of 180lbs. The biggest challenge before beginning the program was being open minded in giving it a chance. You see the commercials and you really think there is no way that this could happen with out paying for a trainer or having major surgery. Beachbody helped me because they have something at every level of fitness. My very first program was Slim in 6 and it was perfect for me to get moving, once I completed this I started doing more cardio such as the elliptical and then I saw the Les Mill Pump commercial and I knew that this would be a perfect way to start weight training, after that TurboJam I wasn't using TurboJam to long before I was ready to set this thing on FIRE! And I haven't looked back! I have used it alone and with P90X TWICE!! It's a godsend, the nutrition guides have taught me how to eat more than any trainer.

 

Why did you choose this particular program?* I love to get loud and crazy when I work out, if you're not having fun then why do it?! So I loved PUMP the music was wonderful and great trainers, so I decided to order Turbo Jam after previewing it at a Fit Club and it came with a surprise the Greatest HIITs DVD! Wow I found myself wanting more and more of the that little fire disk I purchased the program!!! It's such a well made program the music is older but STILL good even present day!! It's challenging me still right now!! I mean where else can you get all of these classes, great trainer, great music, and ALWAYS challenging you, not at my gyms!!

What in particular did you like about the program you chose?* None stop challenging and if you feel like you wanna stick your butt out or shake it a little you can and it's highly encouraged by Mrs. Chalene Johnson so is always saying this is your WORKOUT go for it. The class is fun even if your not really there you feel like you are. The HIIT trainings have helped me in so many ways, I hate running but the cardio conditioning I do with this program has really helped me even succeed in RUNNING!

 

Describe the results you achieved with your Beachbody program. Which achievements are you proud of?* My weight loss is unreal still to me! Mouths drop and some even cry when they ask what I have been doing and that I'm using the at home workouts. I tell them I dont have to spend hours in the gym, you can get results at home with BeachBody!!! My clothes fit different almost every week so much that I will not buy any new clothes since I seem to go down a jean size every month. And the fact that I'm inspiring so many other people is the best achievement!! Another honor was that Under Armour Women have been following my progress to loss 200lbs and are so inspired by me they said I was redefining the female athlete and are proud of me.

 

How has your life changed since completing your Beachbody program?* Since I have been using Beachbody I have been asked to be the spokes person for our know your numbers campaign at work to encourage others to get healthy, I have been recognized on the Under Armour Women What's Beautiful Site as a featured Athlete, I have watched as a woman I have inspired loss 30lbs since Jan 2013, I felt confident to get a better job, I'm graduating with me AA this May, and I got Turbo Kick Certified. I don't know if I would have ever gotten to this point with out Beachbody or the community of people that are associated with this AMAZING company.

How did participating in a Challenge Group help you reach your goals? How did your group support you and keep you accountable? My beachbody coach has now become my friend. She is so humble and real, when she first emailed me my husband said it's a scam...haha, but turns out she is totally real. She continues to motivate me and encourage me to keep pressing play, I never took my before and after pictures before I met her. She said it would keep me motivated to see my results and she was so right it does. I hear from her almost daily, I think she is my biggest fan. Theres not one day she doesnt tell me how proud of me she is.

How did your Team Beachbody® Coach support you on your journey? I love the Shakeology, I believe it really set the bar to eating clean and healthy. I have used all of them you name it and Shakeology is the only one I have been able to continue using. It gives me energy, makes me feel better, the taste is amazing and you can do so much with it. with Shakeology and working out I have brought my grades up, have less cravings, learned what super foods are. Shakeology really helps you learn to rethink all of your daily choices.

How did a Beachbody Supplement or Nutritional Product or Program affect any existing health conditions you have? At one point I was taking four pills a day, three for blood pressure, and one for depression but not any longer!

Did you achieve any other measureable improvements with a Beachbody Supplement or Nutritional Product or Program? (e.g. Blood Pressure, Blood Sugar, triglycerides, etc...) Team Beachbody home page has a million great tips, I encourage everyone to get on there and browse, everything from nutrition to success stories theres something to inspire and help everyone.

Motivation Monday: What drives you?

 

Motivation Monday: What DRIVES you?

 

 

 

 

    Everyone has SOMETHING that drives them, motivates them to do the things that they do. It is WHY they do what they do!  It could be faith, family, money, power, service, etc.

 

    Most people are motivated by money or the pursuit of it. They want to do more, be more, make more.  BUT, then there are others, who are motivated by service and faith and making a difference in others lives.

 

   Personally, I'm motivated by three things.  First, faith; second, family; and third, service. I want to be a person who does things for the glory of the Lord, whether it be leading others to Him or being an example of a Christian woman.  I want to be that person for my family, especially my two boys. I want them to always remember their mom as generous, kind, and caring. But, most of all, strong. I want to be a service to others, in whatever way that I can be. I enjoy helping others with the health and fitness, but if I can be of service in other ways, I would like to be.

 

    So, what motivates you to be the person that you are?  Is it fame, fortune, faith, family? Is it to be remembered as a Godly person or as a star? Post below in the comments!  I would love to hear about your WHY! :)

 

 



Worship Wednesday: What (or who) are you thankful for?

Worship Wednesday: What (or who) are you thankful for?

 

1 Thessalonians 3:9 (NIV) "How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you?"

 

 

Do you take time out of your day to thank God for the things and the people that He has helped to place in your life?  I was thinking about this as I was sitting and looking at my new curtains in my living room.

 

I know you're thinking, "What do curtains have to do with being thankful for people or things?"  Well, you see, these curtains were sewn specifically for my home by my mother. She didn't have to take the time to make them for my home, but she did. And, I'm thankful for them and for her.

 



 

She is absolutely my best friend and confidante and if I didn't speak to her at least once per day, I would be lost. It's not that she gives incredible advice or that she's particularly funny, but she calms me and helps bring me a sense of peace. Not to mention, she selflessly takes time out of her schedule to do little things for me, like making curtains. She also brings joy to my world by being a loving and caring grandmother to my two boys.  They call her "Bebe" and live to see her and spend time with her.

 

So, definitely take time TODAY to thank the good Lord for your loved ones and the many blessings that the Lord brings into your life.