The Amazing Month of July '09 in San Diego

I've found that if I'm not moving forward toward a physical fitness goal, I tend to move backwards. In other words, it seems easier for me to be on a path toward a goal than on a maintenance program. Not sure why, but that's just the way it is.

During the last day or two of June, I decided to kick my butt in July. I've gained around 10 pounds since April 1 (from approximately 144.5 to 154.6) and I'm not too happy about it. Sure, I still fit into all of my clothes, but I'm very vain and want to see my abs. Just kidding. Kinda. Anyhow, I want to lose 5+ pounds in July, so I'm going to do it. Here's how.

1. No marshmallows (since I drink about 2 iced espresso mochas each day with tiny marshmallows in them, I will lose close to a pound in July by cutting these out)
2. No eating anything after 10pm (only liquids) - no more eating in the middle of the night, thank God
3. Only eat out 1 time per week max
4. Eat no more than 2500 calories per day (which is about what I burn without exercising)
5. Stretch all muscle groups every day
6. Eat some fruit and vegetables in the morning before any other food
7. Exercise 5-7 times per week

I'm very determined to reach my goals this month and I'm excited to see how fit I can be. After I kick butt in July, I should be able to coast through August on July's successes. And when I say coast, of course I mean eat a little extra each day. Or who knows, maybe I'll actually be able to maintain my weight instead of the old tack and sail routine.

Today, I start my weight loss program at 154.6 pounds. I anticipate being at least 2 pounds lighter on the scale tomorrow morning; partly because I'll be retaining less water (from eating less food, hence less salt) and from not eating late at night (cuz I weigh myself in the morning). Sticking to my plan for the entire month and exercising like I do, I should easily lose 5 pounds of fat. I may lose an additional pound or two from extra exercise and simply eating less (partly because I'll forget to eat and it'll be 10pm before I know it). So, I anticipate losing 7-8 actual pounds of fat, possibly gaining a pound of muscle and probably retaining a pound or two less than I am right now . . . bringing me to (a predicted weight of) 146 and an actual weight of about 148. GAME ON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!