Day 1

Today is Day 1 of my Body by Vi 90 Day Challenge. I will be replacing two meals a day (breakfast and lunch) with a Vi Shape shake, having healthy snacks throughout the day, and eating a sensible dinner. To be honest, I've never been a fan of these programs. I've always believed smart eating and exercise will lead you to weight loss and health. And they do. Since February of 2011, I've lost 33 lbs with Weight Watchers and a little bit of exercise. I originally lost 40, but 7 of those pounds have crept back on. I'm at a point now where I'm a little bored with my routine. And once I become bored, I do not succeed. I was looking for something new to give my brain and my body the jump start it needs to get back in to the swing of things and get the rest of this weight off. I've had a few friends try this with success, and figured why not? Its only 90 days, and if I don't like it, I don't have to continue. But, if I love it, then wonderful!

I want to get the remaining weight off by the time Matt returns from deployment. My total amount I want to lose is 57 lbs. Not only do I want to lose weight, but I want to really get in shape and build lean muscle. Losing 40 pounds is a great accomplishment, and I'm very proud of it. But if I'm not exercising and toning, lets just say it still leaves a lot to be desired. I plan on following a work out routine. I would like to do 30 min to an hour of work on the elliptical at least 5 days a week, and would like to do strength training every other day. I did 30 min the other day, along with some weight work and wow...I am still so sore. But, the pain is temporary, and is a small price to pay for achieving my goals. I really believe as long as I work hard, I can achieve these goals in the time I've given myself to get it done.

I'm going to post updates throughout the challenge to track my progress and to give my opinions of the program. I'm going to be honest, so if I don't like it, I will say so. I'm on my first shake now, consisting of coffee, almond milk, shake mix, and a chocolate flavor mix in. I did add a packet of Truvia, since I usually drink my coffee with a little bit of sweetener in it. Its pretty good! In about an hour and a half I'm going to have some cottage cheese and blueberries for a snack, followed by another shake for lunch, another afternoon snack, and a healthy dinner. I think I'll make some chicken breasts with vegetables. I haven't decided which flavors I will add to my lunch time shake, although there is a strawberry cheesecake recipe I'm dying to try!

I'm going to post my before picture, weight, and measurements here to hold myself accountable. The numbers still make me cringe, but knowing I'm working to change them makes it a little easier to deal with. Thanks for following along with my journey :)

Day 1, 4/19/2012

Weight: 207.4 lbs

Chest: 40"

Waist: 36"

Hips: 46"