Day 30: Completion

It's hard to believe it's been thirty whole days since I decided to take on this challenge. Not only did I focus on shredding daily, but I've successfully gotten my eating under control and am enthusiastically hitting the gym most weekdays. I've been pushing myself hard and seeing results. Speaking of which, here's a final glimpse at the changes I've made physically.

The following is a photo of Day 1 vs. Day 30 to get a complete look at where I started and where I am today.



My midsection is a lot more defined and I'm also seeing more definition around the muscles in my arms. You can't tell in this photo, but I've also noticed some muscle toning in my thighs/legs. All in all, an amazing success. I kind of wish I had been circuit training throughout my entire weight loss process. I'm sure my body would look completely different.

The following is a photo of all my "check in" days.


There's not a huge visual difference in the Day 20 and Day 30 photo, though I'm wearing the same shirt and it's visibly baggier on me. While doing double jump ropes the other morning I realized that I needed new workout pants as mine were nearly falling off.

My final measurements were pretty nuts. I measured about four times to make sure they were correct:



I didn't lose any weight in the past ten days, but I'm OK with that. The scale's not moving for a reason I'm sure. But my clothes fit WAY differently.

Today was technically Day 31 for me. Despite being "finished" I woke myself at 6am and tried Level 1 with heavier weights as well as some weighted cardio. I plan on doing the same tomorrow. What can I say, Shredding seems to be my new habit. And it's a good one at that.

In thirty days I re-learned how to respect myself and my body. I made the most of my time and I am confident that it shows. But what's next? I'm so excited to see what's lies beyond Day 30. I'm waiting for a few more Jillian DVDs as well as Biggest Loser's Last Chance Workout and Weight Loss Yoga. I also want to start running again in the spring.

It's only the beginning!

Day 20: Level 2 Results

I did it! I finished Level 2. It wasn't easy and it wasn't pretty, but I did it. I woke up at 6am to finish it so I could carry on with my Friday night without rushing around after work. I have to say that the plank exercises got easier but were by no means easy at the end. My favorite part of the level was the Military Press. Watching Natalie lose her balance while I solidly stood with burning arms on one foot made me feel good about myself. I see a bit more definition in my waist and tush. I also have muscles in my arms that I didn't know I had.

My measurements shifted down quite a bit, too:



Additionally, I seemed to have lost another 2lbs, bringing my total Shred weight loss to 4lbs.

I'm so excited about the results I've had with this and I'm pretty sure this excitement has spread a bit amongst people I know. My mom and dad are starting the Shred tomorrow. That to me, is better than any pound or inch that this takes off my body. Since they're loyal readers, I just want to tell them good luck and FOLLOW ANITA.. PLEASE!

My next results post will be for Day 30. I'm terrified of Level 3, but I know I can handle it. Bring it, Jillian!

Does anyone have any tips on Level 3?

Day 10: Level 1 Results

I've finally completed Level 1 of The 30 Day Shred and I can see some differences in my body. The first level was difficult, but the soreness went away completely by about Day 4. I'm anxious to see what Level 2 has in store. Please note that, in addition to daily shred-sessions I have been working out at the gym. Last week I worked out every week day for 30 minutes on the elliptical at high resistance. I have also been logging and watching my calories. My rule of thumb is simple. Eat when you're hungry. Don't eat when you're not.

I lost two pounds thus far. I also took my measurements on Day 1 and Day 10. Here are the results:



I've been following shredheads on twitter for motivation. If you're interested in keeping up with me on twitter, you can find me here.