Last spring I announced that my column readers inspired me to train for bodybuilding competition, which was supposed to take place August 20. I found out last week that my category, called “physique” – for those not quite petite as the ladies competing in “figure,” or as built as those in “bodybuilding” – has been cancelled. Insert sad music here
Disappointment, however, was almost immediately replaced by shock, as my sadistic trainer announced I now would compete in the “figure” category on October 22. As I pulled my unattractively hanging jaw off the floor, he said that, to do this, I’d need to lose about 24 pounds in the next 90 days. Doable? Yes. Incomprehensible? Somewhat. It took a minute to process. But the journey to this juncture is similar to many we have in life, and testament to the fact that often faith and resolve are the foundation for action. Eventually action leads to results.
Until now, I was not feeling good about my physical progress. As I did my daily, and sometimes twice daily, workouts, I could feel muscles strengthening, posture lifting and daily tasks (e.g. lifting not-so-small children) being performed with ease. Yet the scale didn’t go down, rather, my weight and measurements increased! Though I was receiving quite a few compliments from friends, acquaintances and strangers alike, it was perplexing as clothes fit differently (and not necessarily in a positive way), my waist ballooned as it had after surgery a few years ago (not a pretty sight), and I did my best not to feel defeated. Another competitor — new to the game herself — told me not to worry, she’d worked out for months before seeing significant change, and assured me that when change came, it would come fast.
This advice truly was helpful as that, and the great feelings I had about the work I was doing, kept me going. Being in a gym, or outside, getting the body moving – there truly is nothing like it. The endorphins, feeling a body gain strength, and a mind gain clarity – it’s the perfect adjunct to Zen practices like meditation and yoga. For the first time in a while, I’m feeling calm and strong all at once. And finally, “it” came:
Yesterday, looking in the mirror, was the first day that I saw serious changes truly were happening, and really thinking – and believing – “Yes, I can do this!” Lo and behold, I was down six pounds on the scale. Six pounds, practically overnight. In the mirror, I could see my torso tightening, waist slimming and hamstrings returning. I hadn’t even seen progress like this just last week. This was a good day. The results have given me resolve to work harder and ensure I don’t embarrass myself among the entrants in the “figure” category. Think Khloe Kardashian in the presence of her much more petite sisters (Kim and Kourtney): Their size and stature inherently smaller, giving the appearance that Khloe is much larger.
As additional incentive, my trainer – Jeff Ford — announced I will be “showcased” at his upcoming Ultimate Fit Expo in Lonetree, October 1. The event is right up my alley, providing participants with information on many methods available to get in shape, but with the twist of sharing his mental and physical training regimen as a six-time world champion fighter to create results. The event aims to show, as Ford has to me, why Mixed Martial Arts (one of the country’s fastest growing sports) is setting fitness trends and changing lives along the way. For more information, visit ultimatefitworkout.com
In the meantime, I will keep the faith and resolve to stay on track, because as with anything in life – you do the work first, consistently and heartily — and eventually the results astound beyond expectations.
Doni Luckutt is a lifestyle expert who believes by enhancing interpersonal connection, we can stop simply living, and become Simply Alive! If you have a suggestion on what brings you to life, connect with her on Twitter @SimplyAlive, via e-mail Doni@SimplyAliveWorld.com or on her blog: .
