Looking Back: One Year

One year ago I started this blog because the day before I joined Weight Watchers.  I remember when I signed up I doubted that I would be successful.  I had tried other diets in the past. I was working out (kind of) and, god forbid, I was going to have to give up beer!! (http://melindasd.blogspot.com/2010/03/bye-bye-beer.html)

At the time I had no idea what an impact that decision would make on my life. I knew I needed to adapt a healthier lifestyle, but it seemed almost impossible to work full time, go to the gym and cook. With a little help from a supportive boyfriend, we started going to the gym and eating healthier.  There were definitely days I didn't want to workout or eat healthy but I still pushed through those tough moments knowing I had a goal in mind.

Here I am one year later and I've hit three major fitness goals: 1) My weight loss goal was met in a little more than 4 months 2) I've maintained that weight since July and 3) I completed my first 5K (in 35 minutes!) on Sunday. Added bonus, I never had to give up beer!

After hitting my weight loss goal I have a little more flexibility with my diet but I've never stopped pushing myself with my workouts.  On top of training for the 5K, I still went to the gym 3-4 times a week and incorporated hikes on weekends.  Some may say I'm a little overly dedicated, but it's part of my lifestyle now and I wouldn't change it. 

Thank you Weight Watchers for changing my life.

Pre Weight Watchers (Feb 2010)

Mid Weight Watchers (May 2010)

Post Weight Watchers (February 2011)

My First 5K

After many, many weeks of training I completed my first 5K yesterday!!  I finished in 35 minutes and was so happy that I accomplished my goal that I got a little teary eyed at the finish line. Overall I kept my pace pretty steady but when I was about 3/4 of the way done I could feel myself hitting that invisible wall.  I even asked someone running next to me, "Are we in the homestretch yet?" and his reply was he was in his 4 of 5 homestretches for the day.  Five 5k's!  Now that's impressive.  Won't be me, but I'm impressed.

It's hard to believe that just a few months ago I had a hard time running longer than 5 minutes and now I'm up to 35 minutes!  It's no easy task for someone who isn't built like a runner but I'm so glad I did it. I can't wait for my next one!

Me and Nico after the race. He finished in 30:09!!

Me after the race (enjoying a well deserved beer)