But I didn't.
Despite the panic, I managed to sort my shit out over that time. I didn't follow a single meal plan. Nor did I determine the meals for the week or a regular training regime. I just did stuff. And it kind of worked. And I am kind of impressed with myself for that, because I can assure you I wasn't always so certain it would.
What I have learned in the between rounds period is that I am more aware of the choices I am making. I might not calorie count, but I have a fair idea of what is going into my body and how much I am moving it to balance it out. I discovered that I have learnt to compensate myself with balanced food if I make some interesting choices during the day, say if a glass of wine or so is involved. I know I am training WAY more than I ever did in my life and that I love the feeling I get afterwards. My family expects me to go and do something which has taken an incredible pressure off my shoulders and relieves that mother guilt so many of us have.
I have another driver with this round – and it's a pressure I need to manage. Through my success in Round 3, I have directly or indirectly inspired over a dozen people to sign up to 12wbt, including my Mum, dear friends, work colleagues and some people I don't really know that well! These people have seen my transformation and want a piece of the action. I am so thrilled that so many people I know and love are taking that big step into life transformation. There are some I know will nail it and there are others I know will have demons they might struggle to deal with. None of them I expect to get involved with the forums or even Facebook in a big way. None have a twitter account. I hate to say it, but the social network is what has been the most effective component of my 12wbt story. In a selfish way, I don't want to share it with some of these people. It's like something I have earned – like a Round 3 medal! Pathetic, but true – perhaps a shadowy insight into my personality…
Anyway, in the spirit of sharing I've decided to post you my round 1 before shots and stats. Don't laugh at some of them – thought I'd see how much the muscles in my back and arms change over 12 weeks.
Starting weight - 68.1
Body Fat - 28.6%
BMI - 24.7
Muscle Mass - 33.0%
H2O - 52.1%
Just to prove a point - here is a before and after from Round 3. By god I've changed...
So there you have it. I am ready to rock and roll. Tomorrow morning I am doing the outdoors session with a game of netball later that night. I have taken the chicken out already and I will prepare my wrap bits for the morning. I am ready to define myself this round and work out just who I am and want to be for now and for always.
Cos really, it's about change…
xxx
You mean those 'Before' shots are for Round 1 (this one) not Round 2 don't you?!
ReplyDeleteCan relate to much of what you've said Louy - and even though I'm not doing this round, so I know I'm not going to quite get the same results, I'll be living my 12WBT inspired life along with you guys on Twitter. You are so right about how much the social networking can contribute to one's success with 12WBT!
Nicely proff read Trace! I also realised my stats were missing so I've fixed the mistakes.
ReplyDeleteYou won't need the complete program - doing it alongside us will get you through. Set those goals, train hard, eat well and you'll be prancing around in that bikini before you know it x
Louy you are amazing, the achievement of not only maintaining during the 'off season' but also losing weight is inspiring.
ReplyDeleteI understand 100% about not wanting to share what we have on twitter with outsiders, I am finding that I don't want new followers, I would rather just keep our little family as it is. HOWEVER we know that once about 16 weeks ago, we were the new people, we were the ones not sure about what we had signed up for, so it is important we make an effort to help others (because your help made a massive difference to my journey)
I can't wait to catch up with you soon, D is even considering a sneaky trip to Canberra with me to see you before the May party.. it might not happen, but I hope it does.
xx
S
You got it in one Sar - I'll let the newbies find me and see where it goes.
ReplyDeleteI remember I used to say I just dont get Twitter and that I would never have an account. Now look at me - it stops me from getting my work done!
I would LOVE it if you guys came for a visit...plenty of room here for all of you!!
Hi Louy,
ReplyDeleteYou are looking great ! Congratulations on staying so strong between rounds.
I completely relate to what you are saying about wanting to keep twitter to yourself. I think it's about having our own little safe place to vent & take in support. When you start inspiring new people on their journey (especially those you already know) you feel a responsibility to be strong all the time. Our twitter friends already know us through our ups & downs - it's a place we can let our hair down no matter what.
Can't wait to see your after shots & see you in party regalia at the end of the round.
Keren xx