Andrea's Boot Camp Challenge Pictures and Essay

Working out five to six days week proved to be my biggest obstacle during the challenge. The first two to three weeks of the challenge were easy. I hit the wall around week four. My body was stressing out from boot camp and interval training on non boot camp days. Hot baths, stretching and massages didn’t ease the soreness. I was drained mentally and physically. I just didn’t want to work out six days a week. I wanted to throw in the towel; but I knew that I had to keep going. I knew that survival would only be possible if I modified my workout routine.

I decided to incorporate power/hot yoga into my routine. My week normally consists of two days of boot camp, two days of interval training, and two days of yoga. I’ve finally found a combination that works for me. I actually enjoy working out now. I’ve been able to say good-bye to constant soreness. I don’t roll my eyes at the thought of deep squats or lunges anymore; and the treadmill is no longer the enemy.

One of my proudest moments occurred at the gym several weeks ago. For the first time in my life, I jogged for five consecutive on the treadmill. So now my interval rotation on the treadmill consists of two to three minutes of walking and four to six minutes of jogging. I have the challenge to thank for this improvement.

Life isn’t perfect. I miss scheduled work outs. I still struggle with food combining and choices when I dine out. But when I stumble and fall, I just dust myself off and get back up. This is the best thing that I’ve done for myself in a long time. This challenge changed the way I view food and exercise. (I still can’t believe I take my lunch to work three to four days a week.)

One finally thought comes to mind. I was a little disappointed in myself a few weeks ago. I thought man I haven’t pushed myself hard enough. But I realized something. I’ve lost approximately fifteen to twenty pounds since August. I didn’t realize it because the loss has been slow and steady. It finally hit me that change doesn’t occur over night. The body I desire will manifest over time if I maintain a healthy diet and optimize my workouts. My body will reward me if I listen to it and give it the respect it desires.