FIRST STEPS:

Take before pictures and weekly progress pictures. Take a picture from the front, back and side in a bikini or other garment where you can clearly see your body (hold a newspaper if possible.. it acts as proof of the date it was taken!).  Try to do so in the same location, same lighting and same day each week. You don’t have to share these if you don’t want to, they are for YOU, so you can see how far you have come!

Buy tupperware and measuring cups! Also, you might want to consider purchasing a cheap food scale ($15 at Wal-Mart). Besides food, these are the only things you will need to purchase during this challenge! Gym memberships are always welcome as well, as most of the workouts I post will require weights.

Create a motivation board. This is optional, but a lot of people find this extremely helpful! Cut out pictures, quotes and anything else that motivates you. Post it somewhere visible so you will be reminded of your goals on a regular basis!

Finally.. develop a POSITIVE ATTITUDE. Weight loss can sometimes be a slow process. Do not get discouraged! You are only a failure if you QUIT. We all make mistakes, we will all have setbacks.. but do not let those define you! If you slip-up keep going, don’t give up. Be better your next meal or your next workout! KNOW that you will do better, KNOW that you are not your mistakes. Stay positive, stay patient, work hard and you can do this.

I am a lazy, food lover. I use food as comfort and I’d rather snuggle on the couch watching Clueless than get up and sweat and pant. But guess what? I feel SO much better after I do the latter. IF I CAN DO THIS, ANYONE CAN. You just have to be READY to change!!!

GUIDELINES:

Get rid of sodas, fruit juice, Gatorade or other sport drinks, condiments, processed junk, packaged crap, sugary cereals, granola or protein bars, cookies, crackers, chips, creamy dressings and sauces, fast food, etc. Eat wholesome healthy foods, feed your body right and I promise you’ll see results!

Get rid of the alcohol. Yes, you heard me right ;) It shuts down your metabolism, promotes fat storage and destroys muscle tissue. 

Drink a gallon of water a day and as much green tea as you want (without sugar obviously).

GET AT LEAST 45 MINUTES OF EXERCISE EVERY SINGLE DAY….One day should be taken off from lifting and strenuous cardio.. so on this rest day, opt for a brisk walk or something of that nature.

SOME TIPS:

Surround yourself with positive people who support you. If they don’t want you to be healthy, they aren’t a true friend (who would want their friend NOT to want to get fit and healthy!?). 

Make time for the gym like you make time in your day for showering, eating, sleeping, etc. Find a form of exercise you love and DO IT. That’s the hardest part for most people.. just doing it! lol Lifting weights is my recommendation, but if you hate it and know you won’t do it, try other stuff out too! 

This is a community right? So let’s treat it like one!! Be there to support one another in this journey! Follow one another, message one another, motivate one another! Let’s work as a TEAM and do this TOGETHER. And of course, I’ll be here if you guys have any questions!

**DISCLAIMER** I am NOT a dietician, counselor, personal trainer, doctor, or any other healthcare related professional. I do not mind giving advice or suggestions, but please keep in mind that I have NOT been trained in these fields. If you ask me a question I will answer it to the best of my ability.

Please note! It is solely your decision to participate in the Muffin Top-Less Challenge. Make sure you check with a doctor before proceeding with any diet or exercise program.