Week 8 - Changes to Both Mind & Body in The Weight Race
Posted by April Pansy on Wed, Mar 17, 2010
We've talked about the dreaded scale, we've talked about the safe amount of weight to lose from week-to-week, we've talked about the mental obstacles during the weight loss process...now I want to talk about how different the Great Weight Racers are both mentally and physically since day 1.
You should not be shocked to hear how mentally challenging this contest has been for the Racers. They've blogged about it, and you even may have felt the same way if you've gone through a weight loss process. Why is it so difficult, why does it take so long, and why (after losing weight) do I see the same body in the mirror? To answer the questions in a simplistic manner...it's difficult because it's a process. It's a process that takes patience and time. It takes time day after day to learn about good eating habits. It takes time to learn how to workout effectively. And, by the way, gaining the weight didn't happen overnight so you're not going to lose it overnight. It just takes time! I hear people say, "I've lost 15 pounds, but I just don't see a change!" Well, how are your clothes fitting? Are you 1 or 2 sizes smaller? Are you pulling your belt tighter? We don't often see it because we are our own toughest critics.
You may not see a smaller you in the mirror, but I ask you...are you in better shape? I can tell you that The Great Pocono Weight Racers are in better shape! As trainers working with new clients, we have to learn how much new exercisers can handle in the gym. With a little trial and error, we find out how much strength they have, and how much intensity they can endure on the cardio equipment. Once we have the starting point, we create a plan with one goal in mind... asking the client to give just a little more effort each time.
With all of our Racers, the trainers saw poor physical condition but a great desire to overcome it. So the training began. Week after week, the trainers worked with the Racers, teaching them how to exercise at the right intensity. There were weight room workouts, water workouts, group workouts including various challenges and obstacle courses, and some even gained the confidence to take group fitness classes. Spinning and Stretch seemed to be among the favorites! During our last challenge workout last Saturday, I saw awesome attitudes, desire, and an unbelievable change in physical condition since day 1. Readers will see these changes next week with the follow up test results and measurements. So stay tuned...
So when you are wondering what happened to the Racers over the 10 week contest and how they lost so many pounds and inches...they followed their plan! With patience and determination, they overcame great obstacles, mentally and physically. I am proud of all of them for going through this demanding process and sticking to it no matter what the scale registered on "Weigh-In Day".
Speaking for all the trainers at Elevations...It has been an unbelievable process! It has been a pleasure to work with all the Racers and see their inner strengths emerge!
With only 9 days left, we want you to put forth your best effort and attitude and we'll see you at the finish line!