I am seeing real results now. My clothes fit differently and I look different! There is a big change in my energy level. I used to go home at night after work and collapse. Now, I am going out and doing things. In fact, I started Hwar Do, a martial arts class, with my niece. I hesitated at first, because I thought that my increased physical activity there might take away from seeing the results I got just on the "Body for Life" program. But I realized that I did not have to limit myself. Nowhere in the book does it suggest we only do this program, then sit on the couch!
Martial arts is a logical extension for me of the "Body for Life" experience. As my body improves my mental outlook improves. I have become more comfortable with myself physically. Overcoming my fear of the gym has translated into overcoming my fear of the dojang (name for Korean martial arts school). I know my body is capable of much more than I had been using it for. I believe I can learn to do all the kicks and blocks, and my experience thus far has been exactly that.
It is also important to me to spend time with my niece, who is 14, and at an age when young girls often "fall asleep" to who they are, and become caught up in the cultural conditioning that says what should be most important to her is boys, clothes, and looking "right". Martial arts offers personal discipline, and promotes values of honesty, integrity, and service. I wish someone had taken me to the dojang when I was her age... but at 44, I can still learn the lessons!
I have tweaked my workout a bit more. Tried the ab crunch where you lay on your back, swing both knees over to one side, then do the crunches. I found abdominal muscles I did not know I had! Today I can tell you that my stomach is getting flatter and I am delighted!
Seven weeks ago I was afraid of the gym, did not know how to use weights, and was carrying around body fat I thought I was stuck with for the rest of my life. Every day on this program I am learning that transformation is not only possible, but WILL happen if I follow the course of action laid out for me. I truly believe that if I can do it, anyone can do it.
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