Body2B

Attention

2010-07-29T08:55:00.001+10:00

Hi Everyone - OKay so you may be here due to reading the latest and greatest mag in Oz - Oxygen Magazine!! Fantastic - glad you have joined the health and fitness revolution !!!

If you are interested in daily tips and advice and reading my blogs, I now do this through my website - www.body2b.com.au

Please follow my journey and I cannot wait to speak and/or meet more of you in the coming months !!

www.body2b.com.au

What will your body be...

LISTEN

2010-07-05T09:44:00.000+10:00

Sometimes in life it is better to just admit fault, or admit wrong, or admit you just need time out.

And I did just that this late last week.

After catching the flu, running myself into the ground, loosing absolutely all motivation to want to train or eat right, basically losing my mind as my body was simply yelling, screaming and crying to give it a break – the signs were all too much and for once, I took noticed of the signs, listened to my body and made one of the hardest decisions I have made in a while and that was to withdraw my entry to the All Females in July.

Sometimes when you are day in day out, battling with yourself, the man in your head is screaming at you, and you scream back.. trying to fight something that you won’t win… trying to tell yourself that you HAVE to get up and do your cardio because once you get going you will be fine.. then doing it, and the whole time not enjoying one moment of it.. then trying to lift weights when the interest has slipped, pushing rep for rep wishing you could be anywhere else.. preparing the clean healthy foods which I love so much, but for once in my life, not wanting to go near anything clean.. more so wanting to eat any crap I could get my hands on.

YEP – this was a sign to take a break. As I said it wasn’t easy!! Was I worried about what people would think.. NOPE, was I worried about getting worse and worse off and it spiralling out of control.. YEP – that’s all it took me to realise I made the best decision of my life.

After having last week off training, to rest both my body, my mind and “spirit” I have come back with so much vigour, excitement and new goals. Yes I would like to see myself up on stage in a week – however there is no use in pushing myself into something that my body and mind are rejecting at the moment. When you heart is not in it 110% then I don’t believe you should do it.. When you are working passionately towards a goal, things just happen without thinking about it.. in this case, I was ready for a break. My first comp for the year, I gave it my all 200%, I worked my butt off and I loved every moment of it.. so if that’s anything to go by, yes I was ready for a break.

So this morning, I am back into training, had a fantastic Chest and Biceps session followed by 30 minutes of cardio on the elliptical.

I have the vibe back and looking forward to getting back into a four day spilt program and I will also without fail complete 30 minutes of cardio a day – mixing it up from power walking, to elliptical, to a job, to interval training so as my body does not get used to what it is doing.

My clean eating is back on track and the feeling of eating wholesome clean foods once again reminds me of way I choose to live this lifestyle.

So amongst everything that has happened, I am taking up some new hobbies as fitness is only one part of “healthy mind, healthy body”. My girlfriend Victoria (yes, what are the chances of that!) and I are starting Hip Hop and Funk classes at Ministry of Dance next week. Ministry of Dance is Jason Colemans Dance Studio where many of the talented “So you think you can Dance” people have come from. So we are both VERY excited to say the least about that !

Anyway – my blogs will take a bit of a different spin now, and my new website will be launched soon which is exciting stuff.

I will be taking a big focus on keeping the mind healthy, which in turn will see you have healthy body – healthy thoughts, healthy everything … !!!!

So all I ask is this week everyone starts listening to their body more, whenever you have niggling pains, or thoughts, or feelings.. I can pretty much guarantee its your body and mind trying to tell you something.. go within and start listening more.. and don’t just do things because of what someone else things, or wants you to do.. start being your own master and do what makes you happy !

To all the girls competing this weekend at the All Females – Best of luck to you as I know how much time and energy you have put into your prep! Go gals !

xoxo

RESTnRECOUPE

2010-06-17T12:49:00.003+10:00

So today is my day of pure relaxation and rest!!

The next few days will see me having a break from training and using the time as downtime to rest, re-coupe and get a few nice little treats such as a massage, reflexology in the hope I can fix my foot - which I am not totally sure what I have done to it, however all I know is when I apply pressure to it, IT HURTS!

Time out is just what is needed and after an unreal chat with my coach, these next few days should see me back up on my feet in no time!

Its actually been way too long since I have indulged a little and treated myself to a massage or facial etc and sometimes its just what we need to get back on track !

Anyway - I look forward to updating where I am at over the next few days and also keeping warm and out of the cold ! Brrrrrr

FATIGUED

2010-06-16T16:16:00.003+10:00

With every up there must come a down at some stage... so I am figuring out right now!

Its been one of those weeks where things seem to be going a little bit downhill for me at the moment with regard to my health. Its funny - when you think that you "are immune" from getting injured, unwell or run down... it takes hold of you in a big way.

For me, I have seen my energy levels, immune system and basically my whole body is extremely run down at the moment which in turn has set me back in a rather big way.

A couple of weeks ago I was getting a lot more tired than normal and yes every human gets tired, not only because it is winter, but the cold weather takes its toll, it is harder to get moving and colds and flu symptoms are in the air.

For me though, for someone who has non-stop energy 98% of the time, always motivated, driven and basically nothing can get in the way of getting out and doing what I have to do training wise, I have struggled in a huge way over the last week and a half. I have been totally run down and been unable to lift heavy weights, rather having to resort to lifting very light and also doing short sessions just to ensure i am getting in some training due to the fact I am competing in a short 3.5 weeks from now.

Anyhow, to cut a long story short, I have been to the doctor twice now, the first time after explaining all my symptoms and getting numerous tests including bloods and cortisol tests etc and then going back for a second opinion, I have been told I have been struck with Adrenal Fatigue... not the best timing at all !

For those of you who don't know Adrenal Fatigue is a condition in which the adrenal glands function at a sub-optimal level when patients are at rest, under stress, or in response to consistent, intermittent, or sporadic demands. The adrenal glands are two small glands that sit over the kidneys and are responsible for secreting over 50 different hormones—including epinephrine, cortisol, progesterone, DHEA, estrogen, and testosterone.

So, what does this mean.. well apart from the fact that I cannot train to my full potential (as much as I give it my best shot at every session) and go about my day to day activities with as much vigour, no matter how hard I try, I can try to do the best with whatever energy and drive I have left... at the moment it isn't much but as someone who wont let these sorts of things beat me... I will continue to do what I can at the same time get as much rest as possible...

As far as my comp goes.. I am going to do what I can to be prepared on 10th July, however as disappointed as I am that I cannot go as hard as I did for the Melbourne Physique Titles, yes this has hit at a bad time.. but it can only make me stronger... I will take each day as it comes and see where I am at over the next few weeks and do what i can each day without pushing myself to get worse.

All in all.. my health is the most important thing and its nothing that won't be fixed with a bit of rest, relaxation and time out.

At the end of the day things could be WAYYYYYYYYYYY worse and I thank my lucky stars that I have so much else going on and this is just a small hiccup in the journey called "Life"!

Besides the Adrenal Fatigue, I had a bit of a foot injury today which has seen me limping all afternoon and in a lot of pain when I walk on it - things must come in threes I swear... after seeing that our dog Kai had ripped the crap outta his bed I went outside to start picking up what he had destroyed.. as a quick mover... Kai realised I had "stupidly" left the door open and he bolted inside. We are a household that don't like to have dogs inside, not just because I find it a bit unhygienic but they leave a mess and fur everywhere and I get extremely bad hay fever and allergic reactions from dog and cat hair... so I cracked it and of course ran after him to get him outta the house.. he was scared shitless as he knew he was in the wrong and he decided to wee on the tiles.. (thankfully not the carpet).. after getting a big slap he was put outside but when I chased him I rolled and did something very weird to my foot.. and have since struggle to walk properly on it.. LETS PRAY I WAKE UP being able to walk properly... lucky kade got home at the time and had voltaren at hand and he dealt with the aftermath of what Kai had destroyed.

So yes - it has been an interesting week to say the least - but I say it again - things could be WAY WAY worse ! So i don't worry myself about this all too much - yes it does totally suck... but things cant always go right all the time.. and when things don't go right i use it all as a lesson in life.. what is this situation trying to teach me sort of thing.

All it takes is a bit of positivity, a smile and laughter to realise that its far from the end of the world! :-)

So ... in saying that - its time to go and get some more rest this afternoon, and a good afternoon for that too.. cold, wintery and wet and put my foot up in the hope it allows me to walk tomorrow!!!

x o x o x o x o

POSTBLUES

2010-06-11T11:07:00.003+10:00

Amongst all the hype over contest diets, how many carbs, protein, fats, what is the best thing to eat, how much should i eat, what portion sizes should I be having, how much cardio do I need to do daily, what are the best ways for me to train with weights (ie. high sets, low reps, high reps low sets etc etc) light, heavy.... I could go on and on, however I think what ALOT of trainers forget to do is pass on the most important piece of information to their "student" or athlete and that is how to deal with the aftermath of competitions! THIS IS WHAT IS IMPORTANT and I feel most important if you are wanting to compete in physique comps.

I am very blessed and lucky to have an amazing coach, Alastair White, who has taught me so much on how to deal with post comp and what to do when the dreaded uncontrollable eating and binging occurs. I can assure you, without his guidance I wouldn't have the control I do now.. nor would I be able to continue doing what I love doing as I really think I may have physcologically gone nuts by now if I didn't take the time to understand how the mind works in the whole equation.

I am very lucky in that I have had my post comp eating well under control - yes I did enjoy a couple of weeks of eating lots and of foods that I wouldn't normally eat so much of however, not to the extent of gaining too much extra weight to deal with and blowing out, which in turn would have gotten me down, feeling out of control and depressed. I admit at first I was worried about what "could" happen as you hear of so many girls losing the plot, for weeks or maybe months on end only to see all the many months of hard earned work blow out.. then to become depressed and feel totally out of control.

Without a plan of attack for post comp - and I think it mainly is an issue for females (generally speaking).. it is scary to think of the damage that can occur. Not only physically shoveling food into your mouth at an uncontrollable rate, however the physcology of not being as lean as you were on comp day.

Of course, it feels amazing to be in the shape of your life on comp day - but realistically this is not a healthy nor maintainable state to be in. It never will be.

I was taught by my coach and to this day still have so much to learn from him, that we really need to go within and understand our body and what is "normal".

You see - before I competed in April this year - back in December 2009 I was at my heaviest I have been which was just tipping above 65kgs. I think I was around 65.6kg for what I remeber. At this weight, I did not feel healthy, I always felt bloated, I was unhappy and basically, for me, at my height I was not healthy (for me) and did not feel healthy. For someone else this might be their healthiest weight range.. everyone is different so one must not judge one person to another.. it is like when one persons asks what they do to get so lean etc - well wouldn't this be great if we all had exactly the same body, the same metabolism, the same functions etc.. unfortunately we do not so what works for one person will certainly not always work for the next.. so if my body responds to a high protein low carb diet, it certainly wont be the best way for the next person to get lean if their body reacts better to a higher carb, moderate protein for example... so take the time to understand what works for your body - not just because it worked for your friend etc.

Anyway - during 2009 and before that my weight always staggered between 61kg and 66kg.. to get below 61kg would have been a dream for me.. my aim was to always get to 60kg.. and at that time I always told myself that I would be SO SO happy if I could only just be 60kgs..I clearly remember writing it down as a goal weekly that I wanted to get to 60kg by NYE 2009... not a very healthy attitude hey, relying my happiness on a number on the scales.. since then, I have competed and have dropped to my lowest weight of 53kg, and now I sit at a healthy 58kgs.. surprise surprise.. just because I am even below my original "goal weight" it has placed no more happiness in my life.. sure I feel better, move better and I believe look better, however at the end of the day, I have realised no matter how much weight you loose.. sometimes its not really where you will find happiness.. like you first thought.. yes it plays a part but true happiness is generally always something alot more than that.. also happiness to one person is not always happiness to the next.. so deep down.. you need to work out if getting to that "scale" weight you dream of ... will that really make you happy.. it will in the short term, but long term work out WHY it is you want to be at the weight.. for me.. it was so I could feel better, no longer feel bloated and get my eating under control and have a balance.. am I happy now.. You BETCHYA - because Its fair to say I have so much more control now and that's a tick in one of my goal boxes.

So here is my point - when I start to see any little bit of an increase above 58kg I go into panic mode, as I have weighed under 60kgs for the last 6 months.. it has become the "norm" for me.. so my thought pattern has changed from if I go above 58kg I am getting too big...

Now if I look back to December of 09 .. I remember as I said above, that if I only could just for once stay level at around 60kgs I would be happy.

So - now here I am - below my apparently "I will be so so so happy" weight and I stress if I go above and beyond that....

It just goes to show that no matter what the number says on the scales.. I can pretty much assure you.. its not going ot be the be all and end all for your happiness.. Once you reach a goal... you almost always definitely want better for yourself.. that's human nature.. so now that I sit at a very healthy 58kg most of the time.. that too me is my heaviest.. if I slip below 56kg I am getting too light or I know I have a comp coming up like I do now..

When it comes to comp prep.. if I now currently sit at 55kg... my thought pattern tells me.. ohhh gosh I am too heavy.. pfff when in actual fact in normality - this is underweight for somoone my height..

I am speaking alot of babble however I am sure so may of you can relate to what I am trying to say - and yes it can be hard to put into words.

To me now, happiness is making improvements with my lean muscle mass - its about having low body fat levels and making gains with building more muscle - I place such importance of getting regular DEXA or body fat testing as this is truly in my eyes the only way you can really measure where you are at. You see many slim looking females or males who don't weight much at all, however you would very VERY surprised at how high their body fat levels are. So yes if the scales do go up - it could be a good thing as I may have an extra kg of lean muscle..

This is why it is so important to focus on doing more weight training to build lean muscle in order to burn more fat, to eat well in order to keep the fat at bay and stay healthy.. stop relying so much on cardio to lose fat because it aint going to cut it, sure it will help, a tiny bit.. however unless you eat clean and lift weights you will never truly achieve the lean and healthy physique that everyone so much wants for themselves.

Don't put so much emphasis on the scales and what that number says it it really doesn't mean much when you are 60kg yet have a body fat percentage of 30%... start looking at other measures of happiness.. make a new goal not just to get to a certain number on the scales.. it could be to build more lean muscle, to get a lower BF %, to get broader shoulders, to get leaner thighs and legs by doing intense lower body training... all of which will mean more than the struggle to reach a number !!

So to all of those chicks or guys out there who can relate in someway to what I have said above.. if you could make sense of it all.. know that you are not alone.. we have all been through the struggles of post comp crap, not knowing what is right or wrong and finding inner happiness..

We are all human, and the more we keep our eyes and ears open and make it an open forum to be able to discuss these issue more it will be an easier journey for everyone I believe.

Have an amazing long weekend - take care on the road and just be happy ! :-)

x o x o

Brrrrrrr

2010-06-10T10:35:00.003+10:00

Is it cold in Melbourne or What !

I reckon Winter has just about permanently set in and ready to make lots of people lazy, miserable and turn to comfort food!

So, what are you going to do about it.

I know for one, that I use Winter as the perfect time to go hard in the gym.. to sweat out really good training sessions so I stay fit over the colder months and know that as it warms up again I will go into Summer knowing I put in the hard yards and that I will feel good in a bikini next summer!

People generally use winter as an excuse to stay rugged up at home.. yes it is nice to do that.. but before you go home and sit on the couch.. make sure you have done some training for the day! Don't let cold weather beat you.. just get the hell up in the morning and tell yourself you won't let tiredness, cold or weather beat you in the race to get fit! Compete against yourself and see how many days in a row you can get up as soon as your alarm goes off. Because really, getting 10 minutes extra sleep ain't gonna make you feel any better - more so worse as you will regret not just getting up and doing what you had planned to do the day before. You know all the broken promises you make to yourself.. tomorrow I will definitely get up and go for a walk.. today I am definitely going to eat well... blah blah blah..

At the end of the day the only person you are letting yourself down is you!

So get up, get pumped, get fit and stop making excuses! Just do it !

POSITIVE

2010-06-07T10:13:00.003+10:00

How'dy! Its great to be back to another week - and what an exciting week it will be !!! I have heaps on and looking forward to more results this week with my training, eating clean foods all week and feeling on top of my game every day, and enjoying what each day has to bring, whether it be a positive or negative experience.. all I know is that from every one of these I will learn something new about myself and others.

Which gets me thinking - I wonder if I am sometimes "weird" or a "crazy freak" or downright stupid sometimes at the comments that you hear from the apparently "normal human being" (because yes apparently when you choose to train at the crack of dawn or eat a nice clean healthy meal you are not considered normal... so it ponders the question, is being lazy, full of excuses and filling your face with crappy food the normal these days??) ... and I am totally sure I am not alone here in that people who benefit from the health and fitness lifestyle probably get shot down by negativity occasionally, generally from those who have not yet realised the amazing benefits of this sort of "so called crazy" healthy lifestyle.

Most days I find that a comment here or there is directed to me such as "yuk, how can you eat that" or "yeah real tasty that looks" etc etc.. basically a comment based around the "clean healthy foods" I am preparing or the fact that I was up at the crack of dawn to do some cardio - Am I totally insane !!!

Hrmmmm - isn't it funny that generally speaking most of these comments or slurs come from the more negative person who is quite clearly struggling to find the motivation or drive to look after their Number #1, the person who will always find an excuse "why not" to exercise today or why their last meal was junk food. I can guarantee you will never hear a negative comment from a health "freak" if your next meal is chicken and steamed veggies, or if you wake up at 5am to go for a run, because they people understand why you do it, they understand the benefits of a healthy and fit lifestyle, they understand how you will feel after you finish training followed by a delicious healthy breakfast, they will understand that this is a way of life, not just a short term solution to living a long and fulfilling life where you can have all the energy in the world to play with your kids, all the energy to do your daily tasks, all the energy to rub off onto the next person so that they can get a little more motivated. The positives are endless and far outweigh any negative to this lifestyle.. Quite frankly, I cannot think of any negative about living a lifestyle that includes regular exercise and healthy eating. It is my way of life, and always will be.

It can become rather annoying at times when the "lazier" person tried to make themselves feel better by trying to cover up their negativity by saying something like, gosh that looks so boring or gee your missing out on... such and such or anything else that is a "hidden" negative comment to try and make you feel bad..not that it ever works. I can assure you, I ain't missing out on nuthin! I know that living this lifestyle that I can have my cake and eat it too.. yes I do eat crap sometimes.. I love sweets and dark chocolate especially, however I know that I work my freakin butt off so I can occasionally enjoy these treats, and I also know that I will not whinge or complain that I ate this or that.. I will eat it, enjoy it and know that no matter what I will be up the next day doing some physical exercise to ensure that it does not do any "damage". Its not rocket science..

If people label me a wierdo, freak, stupid, crazy whatever else, great - that's what I would rather be than lazy, unmotivated, tired and frumpy. When you have a destination, and you know exactly what it is and where you are going, it beats going around in circles looking for a quick fix.. People are still daily trying to find the next best weight loss pill or potion, without first getting to the bottom of the problem.. and this is where it is so important.. to "get your head space right" and work out WHY you want to finally get out of the rut you are in.. why you want to lose some body fat, why you want to finally feel good EVERY day not just sometimes, WHY you want constant motivation, and not have the argument with yourself every day as to whether you should go and get some exercise or not.. it should be a given.. this is your body - you only get one.. so look after it.. become a "crazy freak" because you will NEVER EVER regret it ! I know that about 1.5 years ago, something was said to me that gave me so much drive... and from the day this person gave me a spat of negative comments and just really offended me at the time.. I didn't whinge or cry about what they said, I used it as my driving force to "REALLY SHOW THEM".. and yep.. thanks because to this day, if it were not for your comments.. I would not be so driven and determined to make the best out of myself..

So this week - make 1 small positive step toward a healthier you.. go for a 30 minute walk today - even 15 minutes.. start small.. Rome wasn't built in a day and neither should your lifestyle changes.. start small and give things time.. however.. give yourself enough time to really see the benefits.. and most of all NEVER, EVER, give up.. let your past mistakes be your motivation to do even better, to work harder.. I constantly learn from my mistakes.. I use it as a chance to improve myself, find a better way of doing things, I always try to take something from any negative experience because no matter what we are all faced with negativity daily.. its how you will deal with it that counts.

Have an amazing week ! xxxxxxxx

SuperGran

2010-06-02T09:07:00.002+10:00

Here is proof to all those people who consistently whinge, complain and make excuses daily about why the didn't exercise or eat relatively healthy should step back and take a look !!

SuperGran - as published in today's Herald Sun !!! I unfortunatly have tried numerous times to post the article however my blogger wont let me do this so I will post it in my side banners - otherwise its a must you check this article out in today's Herald Sun.

This lady should be applauded and recognised .... look at her 75 and looks about half her age and is fit as a fiddle. She states that she has always kept active, eaten well and maintained a positive attitude. She has always done things that make her happy and smile and I think she deserves a massive round of applause as, in my eyes, SuperGran is a huge role model and should be for anyone who makes excuses daily.

This lady is most likely fitter than a young 20 year old and no doubt happier, because it seems that she is doing the simple things in like to keep her young and happy at heart and that is exercising daily, eating well and working in a field she loves.

This story really made me so happy this morning when I read it as it is great to know that there is proof that living a healthy lifestyle will change your life. Is this not enough for people to wake up and see that their unhealthy habits will lead them to a shorter life span and that if people reach for the stars and do everything they can to be healthy that they will look and feel like SuperGran does at 75.

I believe more of these articles need to be shown in the media as this is the sort of person that we should all aspire to be like when we get older.

If this is not enough to make you get off your butt today and do some physical activity and eat the right foods then I don't know what will :-)

Lets all aspire to live like SuperGran because god knows it there are a heap of people who need to change their bad lifestyle habits in order to live a healthier more fulfilling life.

So Cheers to SuperGran - Thanks for a positive outlook for the day ! What an inspiration you are !

xoxox

Body2B

2010-06-01T19:08:00.002+10:00

With so much exciting stuff going on, I haven't had the chance to update my blog !

So first and foremost, I had the most amazing time in QLD. I certainly enjoyed myself at the wedding including getting into the amazing cupcake wedding cake ! And boy was it delicious.. and yes.. I have absolutely no worries about indulging like I did as I know I have the discipline to be totally back on track the next morning when I wake up and the day after for me included a 10km power walk. It is all about balance.. you can have your cake and eat it too - if you are disciplined enough to get back on track immediately the next day - not see it as an opportunity to pig out for days or perhaps weeks on end. If you have control - go for it indulge a little.. if you haven't yet mastered being able to have some treats then get back on track, it may be worth investing more time psychologically to assess why it is that you cannot get back onto a healthy eating and exercise plan.

I can tell you now.. I at one stage was out of control and could never master this. I never understood how important the thought process is when it comes to healthy mind healthy body - still learning and always will to this day however I can happily say when its time to get back on track I know how to do it.

To exciting news regarding my online PT and health and fitness business - I have finally finished my logo designs and officially have a face to my business - see above! LOTS MORE to follow in the coming weeks and my website will be launched over the next few months.

Until then its training and eating well up until the All females in July and then working on a few other things in the meantime.

A lot to do and little time today so I must bolt!

Enjoy your evening and hope you have trained today and ate well !

2010-05-26T15:09:00.002+10:00

So this is my last post before i head up to "hopefully" sunny QLD !

It has been absolutly pelting down with rain over the last few days however still mildly warm as QLD always is.. ! We will see - but I do pray to god that it is a sensational day on Friday as that is the day my brother and his fiance get married. The forecast is 24 and sunny so we will see !

Nevertheless I am totally excited to get on a plane tomorrow morning. Nothing beats heading to the airport for a holiday and to be able to spend time with my family.

I also plan to do the Mt Warning walk whilst I am in QLD.. as far as I am aware this takes approx 2 hrs (1 up and 1 down).. I think.. so I cannot wait to give this a go with mum and maybe kade.. if he is not too hungover !

Its going to be fun times - however I have to get packing tonight and ensure I have some take away foods (clean of course) on me to nibble on while on the plane.

Very excited to get my spray tan tonight so I am nice and golden brown for the wedding - and I go to none other than "Bronzed by Bonnie" Truly the best spray tans in Melbourne.. so gals if you need an amazing colour and all done within 5 minutes.. AND cheap as chips contact Bronzed by Bonnie !

Anyway - So much to do and such little time. Cannot wait to share some pictures and my adventures.. however until then... have a great week and weekend and keep up the daily exercise and clean eating - cause you will certainly feel better about it tomorrow !

xxxxx

GRATEFUL

2010-05-25T09:20:00.003+10:00

Sometimes life goes by so quickly that we can forget to stop and smell the roses.

I know for one, I am a go, go, go person and sometimes don't stop to appreciate the little things that I am so grateful for in my life.

And grateful is an understatement - there are so many things in my life that I can be thankful for and thought I might list just a small select few that make me who I am today and why I am so lucky.

1. I am so grateful for the way I was bought up in such a loving family - I am grateful for the education that my parents put me through and the care and attention that went toward my mum and dad ensuring that we could follow our passions such as sports we love - for me that included Ballroom Dancing. For years on end my parents endured long drives to ensure I was at dance training every day and also any sports on Saturdays and Sundays. I thank them for this and am forever grateful.

2. I am so grateful for all of my past experiences whether they be bad or good. These past experiences have made me who I am today and have made me such a strong person in order for me to be able to deal with whatever is thrown my way. Had it not been for some crappy experiences or some great experiences I would not know what I do now. I am forever going to be learning, growing and maturing and I love the fact that everyday is a new opportunity for me to learn something new, meet new people, run into different situations and learn how to cope in the down times.

3. I am forever grateful to have 100% health on my side. Without this, I would not remain positive, full of life and able to do what I do. I am so grateful that I have both legs and arms in good working order and my whole body for that matter. Which is why I love to move everyday and make the most of what I have. With many people close to me being ill or struck down with a horrible sickness I stop to think how lucky I am that I have my health. This is something I will never take for granted and sometimes its little things like this that I forget how lucky I am. Sometimes I need to wake up to this fact and really appreciate that I have health on my side. So as not to take this for granted, I do everything possible to look after myself including exercising, eating clean foods 90% of the time, not smoking and very minimal drinking if nothing at all. It was not until I reached the age of around 23 - 24 that I started to appreciate the body and its functions and what all the harsh chemicals can do to it. When you see people get ill around you I guess it is a big wake up call as to how quickly disease can take over your body.

4. I am so grateful to have a very supportive partner in my life, I am grateful to have such supportive friends in my life and also grateful to share many fun and memorable times with these people. I believe friendships and relationships play a huge part in anyones life and there are some friendships and relationships that really make you who you are today, and without these people in your life, it wouldn't be what it is.
Many friendships come and go and all bring a purpose into my life. I am grateful for anyone who I have been friends with whether they are close or not so close, but all have taught me many things. I see every person I meet as an opportunity to learn something new. I love being a sponge and listening to peoples experience and what they do as you never know how much knowledge you can gain from this. I love learning from people who are positive and have done many interesting and successful things in their life.

To be honest - I could go on and on as there are countless things in my life that I am grateful for.

But just a few smaller things lately that I am grateful for.. yes they are small however they have recently sprung to mind as putting a big smile on my face - and that's what life is all about right - finding happiness in every day.

** For Kade washing my car after me not having done this for probably over 1 and a half months.. thank you!

** For the random card I received in the mail from my GF Kristy to thank me for being a good friend.. this sort of stuff means more to me than any materialistic thing in the world.. its the small things to me that make the most impact and a card with written words is a really touching thing to receive.

** For the heaps of laughs, learning and chats with my friend Tez. You always put a smile on my face and have always been there for me through thick and thin.. Its hard to find friendships like this so I am forever grateful.

** For my coach Al White at Dohertys Gym City.. for helping me to "harden the F*&k up".. without your continual support and dedication to my results I would not be in the position I am today - nor would I be getting the results I am gaining from our training sessions and nutritional support. Sometimes you need someone to say it how it is.. so you can become a stronger person.. and without being reminded that "yes I can do it" sometimes I would forget that I am capable of alot more than I think.

Gee - the list could go on and on but I don't have all day.. So in saying that - I am getting more and more excited by the day as it is only 2 sleeps away until I go to QLD to see my brother and his fiance get married. I look forward to sharing many fun times with my family while being away and coming back refreshed and refocused ready to get into the last 6 weeks of my comp prep for the All Females.

x o x o x o

Travel

2010-05-23T15:51:00.003+10:00

It can be difficult when you are trying to prepare for a comp which involves restrictive eating when you have to do any sort of travel, whether that be for work, play or basically anywhere that involves being away from home.. I am sure heaps of you have had to deal with this hurdle at some stage or another and I guess would always like to know an easier way to deal with this. We all do !

I used to let this sort of thing stress me out, however I have over time learnt what works for me in order to stay on track as much as possible and love nothing more than having to "make do" for a while.

I love sharing ideas with others about this because someone always has a nifty new way of doing things that we could all use to make it a little easier.

In general, for me personally, I need to be organised on a Sunday before my week starts so I don't have to run around during the busy week worrying about having healthy meals on hand, or getting up to the shops etc. However for the next person, they may find it easier going day by day preparing meals and cooking etc. Each to their own. What works for one person won't always work for the next.

When it comes to traveling, there are so many options now that its hard not to be able to eat healthy and still make the right choices.

A few things that I take with me to ensure I always have healthy snacks on hand, and also things that can be taken on a flight include:

** Tins of Salmon in spring water (I don't like tuna so I substitute for salmon)
** Unsalted cashews or almonds
** Protein Powder and a shaker
** Low carb protein bars (don't like having to have these a lot but they are good when traveling as a substitute)
** Apples

Whenever I get to the location it is always very easy to hunt down a supermarket that would have some fresh healthy foods which you can prepare whilst away (this of course if you have more a motel setting with a kitchen. Also when eating out.. you can pretty much guarantee wherever you go, there is a healthy option on the menu.. it is almost unheard of these days for restaurants and cafes not to have healthy options, it just comes down to the choice you decide to make.

** chicken breast (easy to even microwave or grill quickly on a pan)
** Eggs - so easy to throw together an egg white omelet or boil a few up to eat.
** low fat deli meats such as turkey (if you have no place to cook up some lean meat)
** fresh greens and or salad (salad being the easy option as it doesn't require cooking.. just a bit of chopping)

All of the above are very easily prepared and can pretty much guarantee you would be able to get this stuff from any small grocer or grocery store.

When it comes to training - it is also so easy to incorporate it without missing a session.

Firstly, power walking or jogging/running.. whatever your vice is.. both are free and can be done anywhere.. no excuses with that one.. I love the fact that I will be in a new and different location, so I can try different walks, see different things and walk on different terrain.

You can also incorporate heaps of body weight exercises such as squats, dips (using a chair or park bench or edge of bed etc), sit ups, push ups, lunges shoulder presses with a few bottles from the mini bar or something with a little resistance..the list is endless, anything is possible and can be really fun trying out new ways to move your body.

I actually now find traveling really exciting whilst preparing for a comp, as it gives me a challenge to see how much I can stick to the plan and find alternatives rather than the usual.

So bring on QLD this week - I cannot wait, haven't been so excited in ages, more than ever to see my brother and his gorgeous bride to be Bec walk down the aisle and finally tie the knot.. I absolutely love weddings and I am sure this one will be amazing !!! The venue will be picturesque and the company even better.

Have a wonderful week and hope there are lots of fun things happening !!

x o x o

PB

2010-05-22T06:30:00.003+10:00

Its legs day today and I am up and ready to break some PB's with my coach! Hopefully !!

Its really exciting when you set goals that you think you won't achieve then go to all lengths to ensure you don't fail. And if you do, you just try again !

Today I am doing that and my main goal is to get those extra weights on the bar and simply just use everything I have to break through the pain barrier.

I am excited and hope to report back later with some good news on achieving what I am set out to do this morning.

2010-05-20T11:49:00.003+10:00

Okay so a bit off topic today however I wanted to express a thought that gets me every time I hear a female complain about this..

So how many chicks out there, are in love, yes, TICK, how many still keep their own passions and interests and take part in things THEY love but then also have partner time, YES? Then how many chicks kick up a stink if their partner says he is going out with the boys.. potential to bars where there will be lots of extra female company and or the "Forbidden Strip Clubs"!!! God forbid if they ever did such a thing..

Okay girls.. comon please.. its time you started to put some trust in your man.. its time your started to let go a little and find your own interests, its time you let your partner do as he pleases because at the end of the day you will only drive him away..

What is it these days with chicks cracking it at their man if they happen to check out another female who is good looking (would that make him human).. gee careful he may just immediately run off with her - I think not..

So often thee days I hear chicks complaining because their man looked at another chick, or went out with the boys, or to the strippers or anything that does not include "her" in the equation.. What ever happened to being independent and using the time your partner is off doing something he enjoys to do something you enjoy...

PLEASE - GIVE ME A BREAK - I wonder when females will work out that this sort of behaviour drives a man the other way..

Chicks need to start relaxing a little more and have more trust in the person you are with.. let them do what they want, embrace the fact that they may look at other chicks, yet they are coming home with you.. relax and just let them be !!

Its male behaviour and you cannot and wont change that - and for as long as you try and change them, no doubt you will get the opposite effect.. imagine someone tried to come along and change you .. hrmm not cool !

Anyway - thought I would post this topic because I find that maybe I am different sometimes when it comes to the normal female.. I don't mind whatever my Man does, he can go out with the boys, he can look at other chicks, he can go to the strippers .. whatever it is he likes to do.. because I know at the end of the day he loves me and is coming home to me of a night.. :-) so whats there to worry about.. Nothing !

Anyway - maybe there are other chicks out ther like me who are very easy going in this department.. if there are unreal chickie babes.. you rock cause it means you must have a bit of trust and also a bit of Independence !!

Speaking of passion and Independence I onder what everyone is up to today that is making them smile and happy - me, I am having a great day, busy with work and looking forward to training later and of course have already enjoyed a sensational Power walk this morning.. ! Sun is out and I am off for a lunch time frolick ! :-)

x o x o

2010-05-19T13:06:00.002+10:00

I don't think I can describe how much I love Power Walking - Nothing beats it.. Apart from maybe a good hard weights session however walking to me is a release.. I sail away into my thoughts and think about my goals, dreams and anything else happening in and around my life.. Its a time where I get away to another place, where I can forget all the stresses happening, where I can breathe in fresh air and just watch and observe what is going on around me. It is a time where I can burn those extra calories without knowing I am doing it..

Everyone has their passion however, I truly have to say - how can everyone not want to go out walking.. how can people want to be lazy and choose to sit on their butt all day and not go out into the fresh air to get some brisk walking into their day. Why would you bother making excuses to others as to why you didn't get exercise today, when they only person who is missing out is you.. as if the person next to you really cares if you were lazy today - they only person you are doing harm to is yourself.. so do yourself a favour today - especially if you are in Melbourne and go and get outside and just walk.. doesn't have to be fast - but take in everything around you.. breathe in the fresh crisp air - enjoy the Vitamin D and just take yourself to a place of calm!

If everyone Incorporated a bit more walking into their day, perhaps we wouldn't all be such an obese nation, of course, same goes with if we could all just down size our portions and eat more clean with more fresh vegetables, lean proteins and fruit there would be less winging about how fat or shitty we feel. There would be less blame, perfect example being the stupid Government lately and how they are blaming TV ads and upsizing and everything else for obesity - give me a break - it is no one Else's fault but the person in speaking.. the person who chooses to shovel McDonald's and Pizza into their mouth, the person who chooses to watch TV rather than get 30 minutes of exercise a day. The person who chooses to drink alcohol more than once a week in copious amounts then eat a mountain of oil slicked take away the day after because they feel so shit, the person who chooses to sleep in rather than get some physical exercise before they go to work so they don't have to make excuses later in the day... its all about choice.. always has been...

Alot of people say to me gee you are disciplined, how do you do what you do etc... well easy answer to an easy question - I am not disciplined, I am simply choosing to live a healthy lifestyle, and to feel my best and look my best so I don't have to go through life having regrets wishing later in life I had have strived for better. I choose to go walking every day and do weights 4 days a week because that's what our body needs to stay strong and live a long life... I refuse to get sick later in life due to inactivity.. I see many people around me just like that and quite frankly - what a poor quality of life, I choose to still be doing weights when i am going on 60years old, because I know it is possible to have a body of a 16 year old at 60 - despite what most sedentary people think.. once again making excuses for their poor quality of life due to giving up on physical activity too early.. A perfect example - check out this youtube click of this amazing 72 year old man who has a better body than most 18 year guys.. now you tell me if the weights room is bad for you !

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUvjXQHt6QQ

This is a way of living and if we don't look after ourselves no-one else will..

Have a sensational "Hump Day" and go enjoy the good things in life.. they are free and all you need is to put one foot in front of the other !

ENJOY xoxox

But I get too big and look fat ! Pffff Please.......

2010-05-18T09:56:00.003+10:00

Another very cold 7 degree morning in Melbourne - perfect for that morning Cardio or Weights session! No doubt alot of you have already trained for the day and are feeling totally invigorated and ready to roar for the day !!! Exciting news today with my business registration certificate arriving in the mail... so now I can get things off the ground at a quicker speed. Much detail to come so watch this space.

My day always starts with a Power walk and today was no different. Couldn't think of a better way to start my day quiet frankly and without it I feel tired, shitty and fat!

My comp prep for the All Females is now back in full swing and I am looking forward to the next 8 weeks. Due to keeping myself in okay form since my last comp things should be a little easier this time around, however it doesn't in any way mean I can slack off. With my weight sitting at 56.6kg I will look at competing around the 53 - 54kg mark. At the Melbourne Physique titles I stepped on stage at approx 9.2% body fat and weighed in at 54.2kg the morning of the comp.. so there is room to improve here.. and with 8 weeks, I can certainly make the most of this time and do what I have to do to get the results desired. Competing in Sports Model, is a hit and miss as you do not know if the judges are looking for uber skinny or girls with some additional meat.. All I do know is that the judges to date are going for a more rounded athletic look with muscle definition (so the girls don't look flat or basically just "skinny") - what a turn off that is anyway.. just a skinny chick with no lean muscle.... Yuk ! Its about time more females got into the gym and worked with weights .. without the excuse of "oh but I will get big, or when I do weights, I get big and look fat", no you don't... you are just eating too much at the same time and holding more fat on your muscles which in turn is covering them up, so yes you probably do look large and fat.. simple.. its impossible for chicks to get big....unless they are taking some sort steroid type drug.. the more weight training females do, the leaner you will look, the more lose your clothes will become, and the less cellulite prone you will be ! If of course you eat right at the same time.. and why wouldn't you anwyay - if you put so much hard work into your training.. why bother wasting it by eating junk and take away every day! I don't know about you, but I would rather not have to do extra training just so I can "burn" the extra calories I just ate.. at the end of the day doing extra exercise will hardly benefit. rather put you on an emotional rollercoaster ride where you will burn out and feel negative etc.. and then comes the snowball affect where you generally do it again then again then again.. how many times have we all said to ourselves after over eating.. ahh I won't do that again... and then before you kow it the next day or even sometimes the same day doing it again.. I reckon we would all be guilty of this behaviour at some stage in our life!

Its actually annoying when I here females say nah I don't want to do weight training because I get big etc or found it made me look big.. funny.. these are the girls that probably tried weight training for little more than a month.. but did nothing to change their diet in order to lose some fat and bring out their new sexy muscle definition underneath the blabber.. go figure ! yeah sure I would look fat too if I ate like crap all the time and had a shit load of fat covering my muscles... however I choose to eat well 90% of the time so I can stay fairly lean all year round - who wouldn;t want to look their best all year round anyway - once your in shape its very surprising how easy it is to stay that way.

Take the guess work out and just do the right thing by your precious self - Eat as clean as possible, train with weights 3 times a week, couple that with some cardio sessions and daily power walks and keep positive.. its a win win situation !

Have a sensational Tuesday and do something today that will benefit your health and fitness!

x o x o

Body 2B Health and Fitness
Victoria May

Cheat or not to cheat is the question !

2010-05-17T10:18:00.003+10:00

So - who ate a shit load of crap over the weekend and is now feeling guilty, crap, and finding it hard to "start" again today being healthy.. if you are like me.. you may find it hard to get motivated after you slip up... or should i say eat way more than you normally would, sometimes feeling crook and basically eating when your not even hungry.. sounds familiar.. i am sure it happens to the best of us.. I always ask myself whether or not it is worth having a cheat meal.. (more than once or twice a week).. because quite frankly I am the sort of person that once i start eating sugary high carbo loaded snacks an meals.. i find it hard to stop, not only that I just feel crap and wonder why i wanted to eat it in the first place... I know how good it feels to eat clean foods.. so its where I want to be and what I want to consume to always feel my best.. for the sake of a 1 minute food indulgence and yumm factor.. sometimes its better just to go without..
Here’s the way I see it.

HOWEVER - in order to make lifestyle changes I know how important having cheat meals are as if you are striving to live a healthy life and make positive changes, one of the most important things you can do for yourself is to create a plan you can follow for life. And if you think you can go without your favorite yummy treats for life, you are setting yourself up for failure, or at least temporary diet disaster. I have been there and done that... its getting over the hurdle of I can just have a little bit and stop there.. sometimes when I feel like I am having a no control moment.. I don't bother... i just live through the craving and know that yes it eventually goes away.. unless it is too quick and wins... when it wins.. once again if you are like me.. you don't feel like the strong, disciplined person that you know you usually are.

The upside is that cheat meals, yes are important and that you can make them work for you if you follow a few simple steps that I find useful:

* Always remember that it is a cheat meal, and not a cheat day. There is a world of difference in the two. An entire day given to cheating can mess up a week. But just that one meal? One meal can’t undo a week of good effort on your part!

* Timing is important. My cheat meal is usually the last meal of the day. Yes, this often puts me eating sugar or carbs at night. But remember, it’s one meal a week! The reason this works for me is because I find it very easy to eat very clean during the day, however if in the middle of the day I treat myself.. its like I almost fall over and just keep going.. that's when it gets nasty.. If you leave it until the end of the day.. its something to look forward to after a clean dinner.. and you can only eat so much at that time of night before you will feel to full for bed.. so you tend to just have your bowl of ice cream or whatever it is you Fancy and feel satisfied.

* Continually depriving yourself of your favorite foods day in and day out, week after week, when you are giving 100% effort in the gym is an accident waiting to happen. No, you are not exercising to earn your favorite foods, but you can have them every once in a while because you do work so hard without it having a huge effect on your body fat levels.

When I prepare for my physique comps - I don't tend to use cheat meals in my program at all as I would rather just stick clean for the entire 8 week period as it isn't for life.. and its attainable.. I can also go that long and know I am working toward a goal and that once I have walked off stage I can enjoy a nice meal out and perhaps a yummy dessert.. then I can slowly get back into eating more carbs (a small amount of course such as basmati or brown rice or sweet potato and oats)..
The cheat meal!

So - point of my blog is.. go ahead have your cheat meals.. if your in control and can stop at the one meal.. however sometimes if you do not yet have the control, its better to stay away from the sugary carb loaded foods until you have a bit of self-control.. we are all human and go nuts on food binges occasionally which is fine.. we are human.. however its how you bounce back from them and once again grab the self control by the horns and use it to learn for next time.

So when ever you have those cravings and you want to say, “I can never have that again,” replace it with, “Oh, I can’t wait for my next cheat meal. I am SOOO going to have that again!” and give yourself something to look forward to without the full on guilt of a big binge.

I hope you all have your week off to a great start and have done some sort of exercise today already - I don't want to hear its too cold either.. exercise is the perfect thing to warm your body off and get you motivated for another great week!

I know I am nice and warm and have my week started in a wonderful way - ready to roar and enjoy another week of doing the right thing by myself and others.

xo Take care and enjoy Monday ! xxxx

It's time to get Happy !

2010-05-14T11:57:00.002+10:00

I cannot believe how quickly this week has gone.. absolutely flown... ! Scary how quickly this year in general is going.... and its scary to think we are almost 6 months into the year.. speaking of this.. I wonder how many of you set goals at the start of the year and have yet done nothing about them.... Why not !?

I was so pumped at the start of this year.. firstly because 2010 was going to be the year I completed some unfinished goals.. the first one was to Train, Diet and compete in the Melbourne Physique Titles... I did, I excitedly won and I ticked it off my goal sheet.. it made me want more...

More goals to pursue because it totally gives my life meaning... without goals.. its like you just plod along on a road to no where.. without goals.. I would be lost. I have goals not only with my health and fitness, but with every other area of my life such as career, family, financial, social etc and the list goes on... I can in 2010 say that many of my goals are starting to take shape and it is nothing short of damn exciting. To wake up each day and to be able to work toward my dreams makes me one happy lady!

I do pity those who go through their days, unhappy, uninspired and hating what they do.. why do people stay in a job that makes them miserable.. comfort zone I guess..I have been in the situation before.. however I get myself out pretty damn quickly.. ... from this moment on.. if your not happy with what you are doing.. make a goal to do something immediately to change your situation so you can wake up excited about the day.. ready to go.. not miserable depressed and totally hanging out for the end of the week. Rewrite a resume, do some seeking, network with people, talk to someone in the industry that you would love to work in.. r is it you feel fat and frumpy.... its lunch time.. get off your arse and go for a 20 - 30 minute power walk.. throw your sneakers on and just go. don't make excuses... I know where I will be in 20 minutes.. going for a lunchtime power walk to clear the mind, keep fit and get ready for a busy afternoon.

There are so so so so so so so many options out there and so many opportunities for everyone to take hold of... and the reason why there are so many is because so many people choose not to take them.. they choose to stay unhappy.. and not take risks or go with the opportunities because they are scared... I always go with my gut feeling on most things and have found this a good way to work out whether or not it is something I would want to persue. I have also learnt that my gut feeling is generally always right... Growing up is so much fun, not only because you mature and learn so much more, but I have found I now have total self confidence in making all my decisions and always listen to what the little ticker is saying inside my head... I am not afraid to say no.. and I certainly say it how it is.. so helpful in life I believe.. too many people are afraid to say No to things these days whether it is a social event, a job opportunity they dont actually want or anything else for that matter that they truly dont want to be doing..

So I say stop doing stuff you don't want to do and start doing what TRULY makes you really really happy... it could even be taking out 5 minutes of your time now to call a friend or you mum :-) If that's what makes you happy and smile just do it.

As for me.. I am now going to take a break.. and do something that makes me truly happy, rail hail or shine.. that is to go out and get some fresh air, exercise and recharge... As they say - the best things in life are free..!!!

Have a wonderful Friday and have fun most of all !

x o x o

Stop being so Lazy !

2010-05-13T09:38:00.003+10:00

I am totally gobsmacked at the laziness of some people.. really - why is it that human beings can be so lazy, lazy, lazy.

So, this morning on my way to work I had to stop off at a popular shopping centre, where the car parks are always choccas! I am not one to waste my valuable time in driving around for hours on end to ensure I get a car spot right outside the door so I don't have to walk so far.. I actually make a point of it by generally parking furthest away so, No.1 I can get a bit of exercise knocked over, and No.2 because I am not lazy and I don't have time to drive around and around a car park just to ensure I get that little bit closer to the entrance.

This morning, I parked in my little spot further away from the entrance so I could walk across to the shops, and whilst I was walking I notice a lady who had, for the last 5 minutes driven around and around the same little block of parking to see if a car would move so her lazy fat butt wouldn't have to walk an extra 100 metres.. and gee was a a coincidence that yes she was overweight, she looked tired and basically down right grumpy.. Go Figure.. I would be grumpy and tired too if I were carrying extra weight that I didn't need, and that I hadn't had a proper breakfast (I can only assume) and hadn't exercised that morning. For all I know she was probably late for work this morning due to hr lazy arse not just parking a little further away to save wasting time.

What is it with humans... they put so much energy into the unimportant things in life, yet waste so much time doing things such as driving around car parks.. complaining that its too cold to exercise or that I don't have time for breakfast... basically lazy, excuse makers that will most likely until they make permanent change, will be angry with the world.

I have always been against the old excuse maker... because so many are just that.. I know for one.. as I have said before, I am far from perfect.. but I don't make excuses anymore.. I used to a while back when I was the lazy person.. but now, I simply admit fault, I know I am totally 110% responsible for my own actions, thoughts and everything I do. I make my own decisions, I choose to do what I do and its up to me to make the best life for myself.. my happiness does not rely on my boyfriend, it does not rely on my friends or family, it does not rely on my job, my interests or anything else.. it relys on me taking full responsibility for everything I do. Its like a person having road rage... someone pulls out in front of you and you are nearly in an accident.. you play the blame game .. go on and on about it and get so uptight and angry about the situation and blame this total dickhead for almost causing an accident... its not your fault right? Well of course the stupid idiot pulling out in front of you cannot be helped.. however if you get totally worked up about the situation, yell and scream abuse and work yourself up to the point you get to work and whinge to everyone about it, think about it way to much and let it control your thoughts... its only going to start a snowball affect and get you in a totally negative mood for the day and yes most things start to go wrong for you when you are always negative and remain in that state of mind...

On the other hand.. in that situation... you could initially crack the sads and call the guy an idiot in your head.. but then... just get over it.. understand there is NOTHING you can do about it so dont waste anymore time thinking about it.. keep driving.. move on.. don't think about tit for a further second...

Or what about the moody, unhelpful shop assistant or waiter in a cafe.. how much can it piss you off when you get shitty service.. especially when they are hired to be a "customer service" employee... If I ever come across bad service anymore.. I don't whinge about it... I simply laugh about it in my head, and put it down to maybe they got no love last night in the sack and I don't go back to the place they were... simple.. it actually becomes funny when you think of why they could be moody.. have a laugh about it rather than get all worked up.. because really is it going to matter next week, next month, next year or in 5 years... I think not.

Start looking on the brighter side of life and stop making excuses - it totally works for me... stop taking life so seriously and just enjoy the moment.. its time for the world to lighten up.. both personally and physically I say!!

So next time I hear someone say "oh im time poor, I don thave time to exercise or eat well"... I will no longer get frustrated at their lack of taking responsibility.. I will just say in my head.. pfff oh well.. poor them.. they will always be large and unhealthy".. Poor them.. Boy oh boy they are missing out on how good it feels to be healthy!!

Com'on ... get outta bed abd just do it !

2010-05-12T12:21:00.002+10:00

Winter is here.. there are no if's and but's about it.... and I bet so many of you are arguing with yourself in the morning as to whether or not you should get out of bed and go train, or stay in for an extra 15 to 30 minutes.

Let me tell you this.. if you do set your alarm, and you put the snooze button on when it goes off .. don't you are only making it 10 times harder for you, secondly you will feel like crap when you finally do get up after not having done your exercise, you will get your day started off on the wrong foot, AND you will have to fit your training in later on in the day.

I am not one to make excuses when it comes to training.. I do what I have to do to get the results... Sure, I get damn tired in the morning when my alarm goes off at 5am.. sure I don't want to leave the warmth and comfort of my own bed, sure I cannot really be bothered training at that time of the morning.. But what I do know.. is that to keep a good physique, to reap all the health and fitness benefits, and to have a positive and energetic day... I must get up and train in the morning as it is what my body craves.

More and more, I hear excuses from the so called "time poor" people who just couldn't fit exercise in today... What B&ll S%&^ !!! No matter what, if something is important in your life, if it means alot to you.. you will, no matter what, ALWAYS find time.. So then maybe being fit as a fiddle isn't on the top of your priority list... but I ask you.. why on earth wouldn't it be... your body is your temple... it is what gets you to work, it is what help you get through your days, it is what keeps you active to be able to play with your children, to do the shopping to feed your family, to stay fit and healthy so you can enjoy holidays away with the people you love... It is so important to starting putting it up the top of your priority list ! I always go on and on about this.. simply because I am so passionate about the fact we need to have healthy bodies to have a healthy mind, and to make the most out of every day. If you still cannot find the motivation.. speak to people who can give you inspiration daily, people who can motivate you and guide you to living a healthier lifestyle.. I thrive on being around others who share the same passions and beliefs with health and fitness, purely because that is how I choose to live.

In other news from my end... I am currently working on a few things business wise and will be looking at surfacing with some Personal and Group Training options and I will also be offering Home training options (if you are around the Western Suburbs of Melbourne and are willing to travel to get a seriously good kick up the butt with your health and fitness). I will have more detail on this over the next few months, however until then its getting my website organised and a lot of other things in place to get everything moving. So if you need a boost in motivation... get ready for a serious kick in this department... ! You won't be disappointed. With regard to in-house Gym training.. of course my beloved Dohertys City Gym will be the place I will train from and love hearing from anyone who will be looking at making some serious changes. So lots and lots of exciting things coming up and I look forward to announcing a few things shortly.

Its time to go get warm, its lunch time and a lunch time power walk is just what is needed to warm the body up !!! Later this week I also plan to smash my PB's with my legs session with Coach Alastair White... each week I hope to improve in strength and cannot wait to see what my body will give me this week.. Mind of matter and yes I can do it !

Anyhow, enjoy your Wednesday and I look forward to more updates shortly !

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!

2010-05-09T11:55:00.004+10:00

I have been lazy lazy lazy when it comes to blogging lately.. and whats my excuse, simply just been here there everywhere working and training and doing alot of things that don't involve me sitting in front of a computer.

However, busy is good and I am very very happy at the moment, being busy and doing lots of different and interesting things both work wise and also in personal life.

Today marks 9 weeks out from the All Female Classic at Glen Eira town hall on 12th July and I have decided I will have a crack and get out there and compete. Now that I am in pretty good shape, it will be fairly easy to maintain this and also when it gets close hone in on those last bits so I am stage ready.

The last 3 weeks I have been relaxing a bit with my nutrition and training, however as a person who eats very well 90% of the time, I can easily stay in pretty good shape without letting myself go, and allowing myself some treats to satisfy the taste buds.

So, in saying that - with 9 weeks to go it is time to tighten the hatches again and start cutting out all the little extras I have been allowing myself.. being a dark chocolate addict, this could be a hard task however, nothing feels as good as when I am in shape does so with that in mind... I can easily switch from relaxed mode to focused comp mode ! Woohhoo bring it on.

With training I am loving making some new PB's especially when it comes to training legs with my coach Al White. Every session he pushes my limits.. just when I think I cannot, its amazing what you can do when you have someone in your face telling you you can and not to give up.. EVER.. Al rocks and without him as my coach I wouldn't be making such good progress nor would I be pushing myself to the limits...I cannot wait to see how strong and the PB's I will be breaking in 6 months time.. I do have an aim to be able to lift the heaviest Leg Press (for a female) in my gym.. haha well we can only dream anyway.. however if I put my mind to it.. I am sure one day I can rip out a couple of impressive sets on the leg press ! It would also be nice to be squatting some impressive weight... just to show the boys that chicks can be strong too.. !

Well being Mothers Day I have some baking to do and wish mum the best day ever! Cannot wait to see you today and of course I love you to the moon and back - you are my rock and I love you so much.

Have a great week everyone and go kick some arse in whatever it is you are up to this week.

xoxoxox

Anyone for change ??

2010-04-28T10:37:00.001+10:00

The cold weather has certainly hit home - well if you live in Melbourne anyway !!!

My day started off brilliant (well it always does due to my morning cardio) but what made it even better this morning is that Kade and Kai (Kai being our puppy) came power walking at 5am with me.. I usually due to it being so dark now do my morning cardio at my home gym on the treadmill however this morning I got to enjoy the cool crisp air with good company ! What a way to start the day ! I followed this with a shoulders resistance program session and then did another 30 minutes of incline walking on my treadmill inside as Kade had to get to work and I don't go walking outside alone in the dark anymore like I used to.. I know i know.. dangerous - however point is I no longer do it.. Not only would Kade go nuts at me but also my parents so its all indoors for me when the darkness hits home!

And those of you who think you cannot get just a good of a workout done on a treadmill think again ! The thing that is annoying about treadmill users is those who do not push themselves.. that walk or run at 0 incline - To get the same benefit as an outdoor walk or run you should put the incline to 2.0. I never ever walk on the treadmill unless I have it at an incline so its not a wasted session.. that being said, I also always mix my sessions up - some days with an incline power walk at 15 and walking at 7.2mph or do 1 hour at say 4 incline at 8mph .. depending on how I am feeling on the day - however I always mix things up to shock my body and to consistently give it a reason to change.

Same goes with weights, every week I change my program and do different, whether that be heavier weights, less reps, lighter weights, more reps and sets etc, different exercises.. I am always changing things around.. not only does it stop the monotony of training however as I said earlier... you need to give your body a reason to change...

If you always do the same, you will always get the same results...

So, I dare you to start mixing your program up.. if you do the same thing day in day out - get outside on a bike, put the incline up, change your weights program, do a kickboxing class, do something to shock your body and watch the changes occur!!!

Couple that with a clean eating lifestyle and watch your physique change for good!

Alcohol.. Its time to move on and get over it people...

2010-04-22T11:56:00.003+10:00

Okay - So firstly, I would like to thank everyone who supported me on Saturday 17th April - I am very excited and elated to say that I won my Sports Model division and had the best night of my life. For my first INBA comp it was an absolute honour!

This week has seen me have the entire week off from weights training and I cannot tell you how much I am dying to get back in the gym next week ! I have been keeping up my cardio everyday as its just what I do anyway - my day wouldnt be the same without a brisk walk first thing in the morning.

So, I wanted to touch on something which I wonder how many others out there have the same issues... Alcohol...

Tell me.. WHY DO PEOPLE HAVE SUCH AN ISSUE IF YOU DECIDE NOT TO DRINK ?????

My goodness, seriously, people try to justify that there is something wrong with you if you decide not to have a drink... just to make themselves feel better by the fact they are choosing to drink.. It's not like I go saying anything to people around me who drink too much or drink little etc.. I couldn't give two shits what people choose to do with their alcohol intake.. however much they drink.. good on them, they enjoy it, so I ain't gonna care less what they do, however when the tables are turned its a different story.

Since I first started training for my comp in April, I gave up the drink on 2nd January.. All I can say is, it is my decision to do so, and since not drinking, I haven't missed it one little bit, and choose not to drink moving forward.. its not to say I will never enjoy another glass of wine, but I simply don't need alcohol to fill the hole which you apparently need to have fun these days...

The other misconception is that you cannot have fun without drinking.. what a load of crap - if people go through their life and believe they need to be off the planet and totally drunk to have fun - well I won't knock them, however maybe try the latter... and also enjoy the feeling of waking up feeling bloody fantastic! Why people make it their problem as to what I am doing I don't know and will never understand... I think its about time that they got over it - I really don't believe I need to justify my reasons as to why I might just have a Soda Water rather than an alcoholic drink! No one should.. and no one should have to justify why they choose to get plastered every weeekend either.. people make choices.. and thats their choice! And seriously - its such a non-issue in my life.. so I find it funny when people always bring the issue up !

It shows so much when you are doing the right thing (what I believe is the right thing for me anyway - live a healthy lifestyle etc, eat the right foods, choose not to drink, exercise) that people hate it.. why, because they are doing what they would perceive as not the best thing for their body - however covering up their insecurities by making me feel like shit and that I live some sort of weird lifestyle.. hrmm go figure!

Anyway - you get my point.. feels good to get that off my chest !

Besides, to be honest, rather than waste calories on alcohol, I would much rather use them on some delectable dark chocolate or something which would make me happier than liquid!

So, for me now.. its back to training as of next Monday and setting some new goals.

I am very excited about whats to come, but in the meantime its time to make some serious gains...

To yours in Health and Happiness!

xoxox

It's time to Rock !

2010-04-15T13:43:00.002+10:00

So I thought it was only timely to do a final check in before Saturday !

I cannot believe its here.. well almost - with 2 sleeps to go I am keeping my cool !

Its now down to the fun part - almost - with tanning, makeup, hair and final costume adjustments to be made ready to set the stage!

Its been a tough week, and funnily enough, I would have though this week I would be totally pumped the whole time, however I think because it is this Saturday, the week is going so damn slow, which makes it a little frustrating, when you just want it all to happen ! But spirits are high and I just want to get out there and have a blast !

Anyway - so All I can say is, win, lose or no place.. I made it Baby ! I made it 14 weeks - a body transformation that has seen me go from over 20% body fat down to just over 9% in 14 weeks. I am so proud of myself, because in the past I have tried many times to get to a Federation Style Comp stage state - and I am finally here ! After not quite making the cut last year, here I am.. after hard work, determination, discipline and some sacrifice, I can now (almost) say SWEET AS - I am an Sports Model competitor, with hopefully many more comps to come, I now know what I have to do to get into stage ready shape! I know how my body reacts to different foods, and I know what works well for me nutritionally wise. I have been guided by the best and without this big learning curve from these professionals, wouldn't be where I am now.

This has really inspired me to make that big lifestyle change and always eat well and with whole foods and fuel my body with fresh produce, lean proteins and healthy fats. It has also taught me everything in moderation. You can still have your cake and eat it too, however what are you doing daily to ensure this doesn't ruin all your hard work.

I have learnt that there is no such thing as a quick fix, and if you are looking for a quick fix to lose fat fast, forget it - not only will you waste your time, you will waste money, emotional energy and physical energy, I have been there done that - looking for the quick fix.. my friends, it don't work! Good things take time. Have persistence and patience... believe in yourself. Always take it a day at a time. Think about what you can do today to help your mind and body overcome the insecurities. At your next meal - look at it and ask yourself, is this going to be the best thing for me to fuel my body with right now, or am I just eating this because I am bored, tired or looking for a sugar high. What ever it is, you are in total control, no more playing the blame game, you are responsible for the way you look and feel - so make the right choices, once you decide to do this - you will be TOTALLY amazed at what happens.. not only with your physique, however your mind will thank you for it too.

I still have SO SO SO much learning to do, and will continue to do so over many years. This is only the beginning and I plan to take this journey to new heights!

I now too have absolute, undeniable respect for any bodybuilder or figure competitor out there - as a Sports Model competitor, we do not have to go as hard as these guys - My gosh - the respect I have for you all out there, this is one of the hardest things I believe most people would have to conquer.. to transform yourself so you are stage ready - however to get on stage as a Figure Girl or a Bodybuilder.. Respect my friends.. you deserve it big time.. and I don't think many people out there (unless you work or are involved in the industry) understand what these people go through daily to get to where they are ! This is the sort of sport that needs way more recognition to say the least !

So, until after comp time, I am signing off... unless I feel the urge to log in and post a blog.. however tomorrow for me it is all about rest, pampering, and DVD watching to calm the nerves!

To all my friends, family and other support, thank you so much if you are coming along to Glen Eira on Saturday - it means the world to me... truly, without that support I wouldn't have the balls to get the hell out there!

May all of you have BIG dreams and BIG goals, and may you all work hard to grab them by the balls and never let go until you make it - because that is why I realise why I have made such sacrifices - because of the way I feel today and finally reaching a Dream - there is no better feeling in the world !!!

xoxoxox

Oh My Goodness - 6 Days to go ! If That !

2010-04-11T16:13:00.002+10:00

CAN YOU BELIEVE HOW QUICKLY TIME FLYS !!!

I certainly cannot ! And I also cannot believe I have almost made it to the finish line... what a journey it has been. Feels like I have been dieting or I should say eating clean for so long now.. and so much so that it has really just become part of my lifestyle to make the right food choices ! I had always been a healthy eater anyway, however like any normal human.. I do have a serious sweet tooth and like to enjoy the sweeter things in life when I am not in comp mode !

So with one week to go, even less... 6 days to go until stage time, I am pretty ready. This week may be a little testy as the nerves kick in, final prep is underway and of course, the fun part next Saturday of tanning, make-up, hair, costumes etc.. well basically everything I have been doing for the last 15 weeks is for this one day next Saturday 17th !! I am pretty pumped and I am also going to give my thanks now to all the people who are coming along next Saturday to the Glen Eira Town Hall to support me and the other competitors who will be on stage next week. It is not until you prepare for something like this that you can really appreciate, respect and applaud those up on stage for the amount of time, effort and sacrifice they have put in. So if you are going to the comp next week, don't just look at the bodies on stage, but more admire the dedication and discipline that these people have to get so far.. its not an easy task !!

Alot of people would also think that life will be easy peasy after a physique competition, however this is where a lot of people falter.. and like anything, to be successful in not gaining a shit load of weight back and getting into a mentally bad way, you must ALWAYS have a plan for afterward. This includes not looking at the situation as "oh great" I have competed now... I am going to go binge, eat whatever I want because I can. I will certainly not be having that attitude as I know that when I get out of control like that it will end up hurting me physically and mentally. I will continue on a healthy and clean nutrition plan, however allow myself a couple of free meals during the week. I also plan to do more comps this year so I do not want to get out of shape in anyway. I do look forward to having a meal on Tuesday night at a favorite restaurant of mine Bluefire Grill with a good friend.. and also enjoying a meal with my BF and parents somewhere around the traps - most likely a good ole fashion pub meal. Apart form that it will be business as usual in the eating department, and eating clean nutritious meals 6 times a day.

With regard to my training, this is where it will be nice to ease off for a bit with all the cardio (I will most likely go back to 3 days a week cardio) and just continue of course with my four day split weights program. My training is always periodised during the year depending on when I plan to compete next etc. My plan is though for the next 3 months to build more lean muscle mass in my upper body and also work on my butt more.

SO - with my plan in place for post comp - for now its focussing on getting through this week and of course, getting excited and loving the journey leading up to stage time. It will be a very busy week but cannot wait for every moment of it !

To those who wish to come along and see what a physique comp is all about (if you have never been) or to those who are interested in seeing what its all about - come check it out on Saturday 17th April - starts at 4.00pm sharp (sports models on at 4.00pm) and entry is at the door for $39 for the full show. I also cannot wait to cheer on others after I have been on stage at 4pm and see all the hard work everyone has put into it !

GOOD LUCK to all who are competing next week and regardless of how any of us place.. Well done to the massive effort put in ! I can now actually sit here and say WOW what an effort !

Have a wonderful week and BRING ON Stage Day ! :-) xxx

Happy Easter - What are you doing today that makes you happy ?

2010-04-04T08:36:00.004+10:00

I really cannot believe how quickly the weeks are flying by ! I thought at this stage things would slow down however not so ! It is Sunday 4th April - HAPPY EASTER !! Woo Hoo.. ad you know what this Easter I cannot indulge like I normally would - but the care factor is 0.. I have never been in such good shape, nor have I felt so good, from the inside and out, and this is enough motivation to want to continue to give my body what it needs - that is good nutrition, exercise and rest!

So as far as where I am at - things couldn't be better! I am right on track and have only 13 days until comp day ! So exciting at this stage to think I have almost made it all the way - its been a hard slog, its been 14 weeks of dieting - its had its ups and downs - its had its moments where i have battle the food demons - it has had its moments where I have barely had the energy to train - its had its moments where I have had excess energy to train, and almost wanted to over train - I have dealt with people who have made things a little stressful for me - I have dealt with people who have made this journey so much more easier for me - however at the end of all of this - I have learnt more than I could EVER need to know about what works best for my body - what my body needs - and the way it reacts to certain situations. So what can I say about the journey so far, it has only just begun and god damn do i have plans for the rest of the year. If you think you know it all - you never will.. there is so much to learn, so much information to take in, so many interesting people to learn from and so many mistakes to be made, mistakes where we can learn and grown from to become a better person in the long run.

Something that has bothered me and always will is the fact that I hear it so much - people saying or more so thinking that they have to starve themselves to get the physique they desire, people who think they should be feeling hungry all the time to get results, people who think they have to train hours on end every day to get results.

Well, I am hear to tell you, as living proof that this is bull shit and there is a safe, easy and healthy way to get the body you desire. The reason I can speak on behalf of this is because my results speak for themselves. I too, was one of those dick heads who used to think you have to have the all or nothing attitude, one of those dick heads who thought the only way to lose body fat was to eart barely anything, one of those dick heads who thought you had to do endless hours of cardio day in day out to get results.. Well it is bull shit and yes I am human and of course, it took a long road of learning.. learning on which I am still doing.. and I finally as I said above know what works for my body and really how easy getting in shape can be if you follow some simple rules.

The other thing is.. when people say that want to get into shape, they want to lose body fat etc.. unless you are actually willing to make some sacrifices, do what needs to be done and actually just DO.. you will never ever get there.. people who make excuses will always stay where they are.. they will never move forward and unless you are willing to step out of your comfort zone.. that's where you will always be. comfortable in the fact you are eating yourself fat, getting lazier by the day and always making excuses as to why that is the case.. why can i say this.. because I used to be one of those excuse makers too.. until I decided enough was enough and I was ready to admit to myself that I was an excuse maker, who was getting in the way of getting the results I always dreamed of.

So since I actually stopped making excuses, removed all the road blocks that were getting in the way - my results went as follows:

1st January 2010 - Had my last final alcoholic drink.. and probably the best decision I could have made (because yes - I don't miss alcohol one little bit, I have a ball without it, and it was a major contributor to bad moods, feeling tiered, lethargic and overeating at functions). I also have a few more brain cells to spare.

2nd January 2010 - Weight - 64.55kg - Body Fat - 18.2%

The above was a major factor in realizing how I had let myself go, at this weight, I felt lethargic, my clothes didn't fit well and I felt like shit basically !!! For someone who usually sits around the 60kg mark .. a comfortable weight for someone at 169cm tall... well I was disgusted in myself.. What a better way to set myself the goal to get up on stage in Sports Model INBA in April 2010.

From this moment I applied myself - I NEVER chose to make anymore excuses, I made sacrifices such as not having the fried fatty take away foods, the excessive sweets, the alcohol, anything that would get in my way of results.. and more so getting my head right.. living a healthy lifestyle.

In this time, I have followed a very balanced diet, I eat up to 6 - 7 times a day and continue to do so.. I don't EVER starve myself and most importantly I LISTEN to my body - I nourish my body with at least 3 litres of water a day, because that's what it needs. I never run, I power walk.. I don't enjoy running.. so why would I run when its not something I enjoy (why people do exercise they don't enjoy just because they think its the only way to get results.. pfff - go figure why the are not getting anywhere with there results!), I train with weights 4 times a week.. I don't lift really heavy, but I do push myself so I work up a sweat, I train every body part onces a week, I give myself 1 full day off during the week to let my body fully recover so I can come back and train better after. I get enough sleep, I make sure I am in bed at a reasonable hour and I wake up early at around 5am each day, this is when I most productive and when I get most done earlier in the day.

So where has this lead me....

Sunday 4th April 2010 - Weight - 55.5kg - Body Fat - 9.7%

So please tell me, if this is not getting serious results then I don't know what it.. in a small 3 months, this is what can be achieved if you take down all the road blocks, the excuses, the mind games.

Surround yourself with positive people, take out the negativity that serves no purpose in your life... ask many questions, soak up as much knowledge as you can from other peoples experiences, listen, take note and be open to constructive criticism, be willing to admit your faults and just do what needs to be done.

Since I admitted my faults, my drawbacks, my excuses, things have started working properly, since I started soaking up knowledge from professionals, everyday people and anyone who is willing to share some forethought.. I have become a better person. I am now still FAR from perfect, actually far, far than perfect, however I am doing something everyday to make myself a better person, and a person who is open to learning, a person who is ready to soak up as much knowledge and take on board the lessons that life is trying to teach me.. Its fun, its exciting and I am ready to grab life by the balls !!

I also cannot express my thanks enough to the people in my life who have helped me along the way. Each and every person I am close or not so close to has helped me in some way or another.. and generally speaking - even someone who has shitted me up the wall, thank you for teaching me to be patient, to the negative persons, thank you for showing me what I don't want to be, to the positive persons, thanks for being a shining star and teaching me how I want to be, to the persons who would do anything to make me smile, thanks for making my day and life a better place to be, to the persons who always question if what I am dong is right or wrong, thank you for teaching me to follow MY heart and do what I feel makes me comfortable and happy, to the persons who ask me for advice, thank you for putting your trust in me and admitting that you are ready to make a change in your life.. It feels good hey!

I could go on and on, but there are just too many situations which have taught me something... bad or good.. take on all experiences and see what life is trying to teach you .. !

Wishing you all happiness, health and well being.. its my aim in life!!! We are here for a good time not a long time.. so all in all.. if you are not doing something in your life that makes you happy... your job, your health and fitness, your relationships, your situations.. Hurry the F%^k up and just make the change to do something about it ! NO MORE EXCUSES !

I hope you all have a sensational Easter - enjoy those Easter eggs in moderation and do something today you enjoy and that makes you happy regardless of what others think!

x o x o x o x o x o x o

UPDATE - 18 Days and counting

2010-03-30T09:47:00.004+11:00

Hey People ! WOW it feels like I haven't put an update on here in ages ! VERY slack, however I have to say I have been concentrating on the more important things like my training, eating, sleeping and working !!! All of which are taking up big amounts of time.

Due to be on lower carbs, my energy levels are pretty low at the best of times so in my down time, I don't choose to sit on my laptop, rather rest recoup and get ready for the next day !

SO, I guess you may be wondering how I am traveling.... GREAT, WONDERFUL and very much on track ! I am down just below 13% body fat - not bad for someone who was over 18% 12 weeks ago and my weight at the moment is 56kg on the smacker - for those of you who are on the same sort of journey and like me like comparisons, I am 169.5cm tall.

So as things are pretty much on track, I have a few small things I am working on over the last 2.5 weeks and there are some things I have to be careful with. As a Sports Model it is really important we are not "dry", "veiny" or too lean.. We need some cushioning so to speak, rather than judging criteria is that we have a bikini body - somewhat athletic and a body that most females would want to aspire to.

In Sports Model - there are two rounds, the first being bikini round and the second a simple sports wear round so the judges can see what we look like in sports gear.

At the moment, I am having the problem of my veins showing on my stomach and also on the tops of my shoulders and chest, so this is something that I CANNOT have on stage on Saturday 17th April... so I will be closely monitoring this to ensure i am not to dry, it is even more prominent when I do my weight training so its all about keeping track on this to make sure they are not showing on comp day ! Good look for a figure girl but not a Sports Model !

So yes all is on track anyway - AND WHAT A JOURNEY IT HAS BEEN. My gosh I have learnt so much and it has been possibly one of the best things I have ever done! I cannot wait to get up there on Stage on the 17th April - Whether or not i even place, its not the important thing.. the important thing is that I am finally living my dream of getting up on stage in Sports Model in an INBA competition.. Many years in the making.. To finally be doing something I have dreamed of really, well hasn't kicked in.

So I want to thank EVERYONE who has supported me through this journey so far, it hasn't been easy, and yes has had its up's and downs and yes i have had to make heaps of sacrifices to get where I am, however all I can say is that every little sacrifice I have made has been worth it and I would do it all over again..

So anyway - its on to the final 18 days of prep and I promise I will try and keep a more updated blog from now :-)

Enjoy my progress shots which were taken yesterday - and as I said yes, you can say the veins in my tummy - but I am working on these little buggers ! !

xoxox To yours in Health and Happiness !

Update - 4 weeks to go baby !

2010-03-19T11:49:00.001+11:00

So, an update is way overdue and due to the busyness of the last week or so I simply have not been able to update my blog daily. I am guessing looking at my diary for the next four weeks leading up to Comp Time, that I will only be able to give a weekly update as to how I am travelling.

So, how am I travel, at this current moment. Great ! Am I feeling hungry at times.. Yes. Am I feeling tired and exhausted all the time - YES. Am I just pushing through my training sessions, and each meal doing what I have to do to get the desired results YES. I am feeling the pinch of comp prep now.. YES... however can you believe it - I am only 4 weeks out as of tomorrow. Time certainly does fly especially when your days are filled with training, eating, working, sleeping (when possible.. hehe yes lack of sleep lately has not been my friend).

I am starting to get a little nervous, simply because who knows what the judges are looking for. I still have some improvements to be made around my butt and legs area.. always an issue for chicks, however at the end of the day - I am simply a sports Model.. I am not a figure competitor.. so am not in anyway to come up looking hard, ripper or muscular. Yes I do need some good muscle tone, shape and symmetry however there is a big difference between the two.. and I have realised over this journey, how hard it is to get the right balance.. who knows.... I guess time will tell and the judges results will also give me that answer.

To me, winning yes is a great thing, however I am not up there to just WIN.. I am up there as this has been my dream to compete with the INBA, and to be honest, to simply even be standing on that stage on Saturday 17th April, in my bikini after 14 weeks of training my butt off, dieting and the up and down emotional roller coaster ride that it has been... I will have won the biggest prize possible!

So rather than stress away the next 4 weeks, I am going to enjoy this journey. I am feeling hungry right now as we speak so its time to go heat my lunch up... then head out for a lunch time cardio session.

Support at this time is also crucial, for anyone who goes through a big physique change, you would only know too well how much negative people around you can really shoot you down at the best of times.. I have learnt to shut these people out and only give my time to those who are supportive, positive and understand the journey I am currently going through.. I have over this time come across negativity and sometimes let it get me down, however after a day of grrrrr I realise these people are simply not worth the very little energy I have left! There have been some people who have been instrumental in my journey thus far and been such an amazing support and I cannot thank them enough. to name a few, firstly Doherty's City - Alastair White - your coaching and support and motivational chats are a huge asset to me, however as for having the sorest butt and legs and being legless for 4 days of the week each week due to your thrashings are sometimes not missed.. hehe nah they rock!! , Doherty's Gym in general for being my second home and the place I love to be every day, Sara Pocket Rocket - for your FIT Hour Classes and ensuring I never, ever give up even when I have used the last bit of energy left in each session, my amazing friend Terrence for listening to me day in and day out with all the ups and downs I go through daily, your support and friendship means the absolute world to me and you just "get" me and what I am going through and of course Kade for having to live with me day in day out and putting up with my moods, my sleepless nights at times, my consistent banging every morning at 5am on the treadmill, my absence of cooking broccoli and chicken free friendly meals and for just being there through the ups and downs - you never, ever complain and I thank you to the moon and back for that as I know how much you want me to get up there.. almost more than I do.. hehe you understand my dreams and will put up with everything that I must do to get the job done.. Thanks!. There are so many more I could mention however I would be here all day.. However latently the above people have been in my life daily and without them I don't think I would still be standing.

So its focus, focus, focus right now and time to get on with the job.!

On other news, my gorgeous girl Candi is getting married in 1 WEEK... wow - Mrs Cole to be.. so this Sunday is the big Hens Day at the Yarra Valley Races which will certainly be a great day out ! Then next Sunday is the big day - so two very big weekends coming up.. The following two weekends before comp will be down to business.. no plans at all and it will simply be training, sleeping, eating and practicing for stage... the last 2 weeks will be hardest so I will most likely keep to myself to get through it and just get up on stage... Sunday 18th April will mark the day I can wind down, enjoy a lunch or dinner out and have the week off the gym.. from there I will work out when I will grace the stage next and be ready to tackle the next 6 months !

Very exciting stuff, and enjoying this journey so so so much, I have learnt more about myself than every possible and I have also realised that we are all so much stronger than what we think.. just when we feel like giving up - there is ALWAYS more in the tank to get through!

I hope you all have an amazing weekend.

xox Until my next update xxxx

40 Days to go.. Gee time flys when your having fun !

2010-03-08T09:23:00.002+11:00

I have been a little slack with the blogging this week, purely because so much has been happening.

Firstly, the weather in Melbourne as everyone is aware has been out of control to say the least! We have copped flooding in our yard and falling roof bits which all are fixed however, this is nothing compared to Dohertys City Gym (Sob Sob) which was COMPLETLY flooded. Being on Flinders Street which was totally submerged under water due to the Yarra Flooding it was imminent that Dohertys would cop a fair brunt.

So as the boys are no doubt working 24/7 to get everything back up and running, i do hope nothing has been damaged too much ! After all being my second home, it is very saddening to hear of this happening. This however, has not stopped any of my training. I do all of my cardio from home which is very helpful in my home gym and I have also set up my gym with enough Equipment to be able to do at least two days of my training program from home also. When training for a comp it makes life very easy when everything is easily accessible no matter what the situation.

With regard to how I am going personally, everything seems to be falling into place. I am in good condition at the moment however I need to just keep on the straight and narrow and focus on the last 6 weeks (well just under now).. 40 days until comp time. I cannot believe how quickly it has come, and cannot believe also how much I am enjoying the journey this year. Like I mean really enjoying ! Its great to be in shape, and its also great to have heaps of energy, (most of the time) and basically feel great !!! Its not to say I don't have my down days, because I do, I am only human, and yes like most people I have immense cravings for delicious lollies and chocolates and anything desserty.. yes I am a sweet tooth.. however I want more to get up on stage in April rather than the quick fix of yummy tasting treats! The feeling of being on stage in April will far out weigh any treat or alcoholic drink that people think I am crazy to go without.. No thanks, I love what I am doing and wouldn't have it any other way right now!

In the meantime, this week its back into weight training today and another week of my good healthy nutrition plan ! Which is not seeing me hungry at most times.. just the way it should be.. an enjoyable experience, rather than something I cannot wait for to be over.. !

Anyway, being a long weekend, there is plenty to get done today so I must get on to it. Enjoy your day off Melbournians and have a wonderful and fulfilling week !

xoxoxo

Bring on 6 week count down !

2010-03-02T08:36:00.003+11:00

Just when you think you've hit the wall. the results come ! I have to say I am one very happy lady this morning ! I actually thought I was hitting a bit of a plateau and just a few days of from 6 weeks until comp, it can worry you a bit.. but none the less, I have made some sweet progress over the last few days, so very happy to say the least.

It's hard to explain how excited I am starting to get, and I have to say this year I have LOVED every moment of my comp prep. It has taught me SO much about myself and how strong, disciplined and easily motivated I can stay.

No longer does missing out on what people would class as the "finer things in life" such as grog, desserts, breads and anything else bad for your body bother me. I frankly, couldn't give a damn, because I have never felt so good inside before. This journey has actually made me so aware about looking after your number 1 and how important it is to give it what it needs. This is not something I will alter when I get off stage.. Yeah sure it may be nice to have some dark chocolate or the little things that have been strictly banned for the last 14 weeks, however I actually at this point, don't care to even think about gorging afterwards. Why would I want to hurt all the good I have done. It will be a serious case of everything in moderation, and learning how to adapt after a comp situation from the help of coach.

In addition, yes I won't have to go so hard with all the training, but without a doubt, I will still train with weights 4 times a week and cardio approximately 5 days a week, not because its a HAVE to, because I WANT to. Because I know its what I love doing, its what my body needs to stay fit and healthy and its my passion in life. To be able to live life to the fullest with 100% health. To be mobile when I get old and withered.. and to not live my life like you see so many old people, blaming age etc when it comes to them being inactive and immobile. It is about not making excuses and actually getting stronger and fitter as I get older, not the other way around. Its the way I am choosing to live and I wouldn't have it any other way.

It's also about surrounding myself with like minded people who want the best for themselves, who want to care for their bodies, who don't want to make excuses as to why they didn't get active today. After all we all have the same amount of hours in the day, its a matter of how you use them. I personally don't ever sit down and watch TV for more than 30 minutes a day, to be honest if that. I have better things to do such as be active, get productive and do more enjoyable things than getting square eyes. You actually realise how much time you do have when you turn off the idiot box, how much you can get done and how productive you can be when your not a slave to the next TV show that is on. I watch TV when I am doing other things such as my morning cardio... I have a TV set up on the wall in front of the Treddy so I can watch all my motivational DVD's such as Physique comps from the past that keep you on track..

Aside from that, I have to say I cannot live without my music, there isn't many times during the day I dot have CD's, the radio or some form of uplifting music playing... I LOVE MUSIC!

Anyway, enough ramble.. with lots to do today I must keep moving! my energy levels are really high and want to get out there and make the most of them.

I hope everyone is having a great week and doing heaps of fun stuff during the day that you actually WANT to be doing.. ! And yes, you have a choice!

x o x o x o x

Yipee another exciting week ahead x

2010-02-28T08:02:00.003+11:00

Ahhhhhhh, Talk about a sleepless night last night. So I have unfortunately copped myself a bit of a shoulder injury, what I think is some soft tissue damage, nothing too serious, but enough to cause some what discomfort and a bit of a sleepless night due to tossing and turning... in effect I woke up at 5.30am and couldn't get back to sleep so decided to just get up and get on with the day. I am tired now but its a great feeling to have done my cardio for the day and be able to get on with the 101 things I need to do today. Seriously I LOVE my Sundays so much, its the day for me, where I can have a sleep in (well not today - however i am sure a Nanna Nap later this afternoon will be much needed), I LOVE reading the Sunday Herald Sun and just pottering around doing some housework and getting organised for the week !

First being a trip own to my local butcher to stock up on lean meats for the week ! Yum!! I also make a trip to my local Nut Shack where i pick up a heap of Unsalted Almonds and Cashews.

Today marks 7 weeks out from comp and seems all is going great regarding my progress. Still a while to go yet, yes 7 weeks doesn't seem long, however it is when you are dieting for a comp!

My training is going great and loving every moment of it.. well most of the time anyway. Of course there are days where it is a struggle but you just push through and smash the sessions out.. too much thinking about it will cause a lack of motivation.. so its just a matter of "Just doing it".

Its going to be a great week, a busy week and very much looking forward to what it brings.

Now its off to start with some housework, washing and vacuuming.

Enjoy your Sunday and have a wonderful week !

Feeling Gooooooddd !!!

2010-02-25T12:03:00.002+11:00

There is nothing more exciting than seeing results. The same goes for the people who surround me... nothing gets me more excited when I see people get results that they have been working so hard to get.

I also get excited when someone comes to me and is ready to make a total transformation, and actually mean it, with no excuses to hold them back. The sort of person who is ready to make a total transformation.. for good. To put a whole heartedly effort into it. To actually want better for themselves, to want more energy, to want to be stronger, fitter, leaner and healthier.

It also gets me why so many more people don't want the best for themselves and their body. Why do people consistently day after day put junk down their throat and even after knowing how crap they feel after, and how crap it makes them feel, maybe bloated, sick and basically down right crook. We have ALL been guilty of this in the past.. I know too well what its like to feel yuk after eating too much, or indulging on that extra piece of dessert.. just for a 1 second taste satisfaction.

When you start to disassociate food from the emotions, you can actually take a step back and realise that food is here simply to give us energy, so we can recharge and get through the tasks we have to during the day and night. To give us maximum energy. To make us feel great and in tip top form.

I have learnt so much over the last year about food and the emotion that comes with it. When you think about it food revolves around everything, from BBQ's to social outings, to dinners, to weddings to parties and anything really... food is involved. And they wonder why we are becoming the most obese country in the world. Like seriously, can you imagine going to a party or wedding where there was no food.. I reckon you would be left with about 5% of the crowd.

I make such an effort now everyday, when I get cravings to ask myself, why am I feeling like this food.. and EVERY single time its due to an emotional reason.. more so from being tired, could be stress or simply just for a quick piece of satisfaction.

This year, the year of 2010 is the year that I refuse to give into those demons and and give my body what it really wants - Delicious Lean Meats, Healthy Salads, Fresh Fruit and a HEAP of Vegetables... My body is my temple and I will only give it what it needs, not necessarily what it wants. To me.. this is what transformation is about. Making the big lifestyle change to be able to incorporate it for the rest of my life.. when I feel this good I don't think it will be that hard !

Productive Day - One step closer to goals!

2010-02-24T13:38:00.002+11:00

How damn good does it feel when you have one of those days where you have been extremely productive !

I am certainly having one of those and basically feeling great!

My day started with a trip into Dohertys to start with a good 45 minute incline power walk.. then followed by what would be one of the best legs sessions I have had - why, I think my mindset is getting nice and close to comp, that nothing can stop me now and each session is one day closer to stage day! This means, I have to work harder, smarter and get the most out of every day. Even when you think you can push that last rep, get through one more set... YOU CAN ! If you tap into your sub concisous mind you will find the will to just smash one more rep out.. think about why you are doing it, why you are going through the temporary pain.. pain that certainly won't kill you, think about how good it is that you are stepping out of your comfort zone to make changes.. think about how good you will feel after.. there are way to many positives. So before you say, I CAN'T.. Don't be like the rest of them.. be strong and say Yes I can.. because I am different and I am strong and I will make the change for better.. Woo Hoo.

So in saying that.. I am so pumped for my next training session as once again it will bring me a day closer to my results needed to get up on stage in a tiny bikini and look my best ever. with less that 8 weeks to go its full steam ahead!

Apart from training, I have gone to the shops and picked up a heap of stuff for my office at home I needed, done some cleaning, done some paperwork and programs at home and just about to get into my EMT course (Effective Movement Training). very excited about that.. More knowledge to pass on to those who care about improving themselves !

SO, enough chitter chatter.. its time to make the most of my afternoon and get productive !

xoxo Enjoy this beautiful afternoon if you are in Melbourne, get a training session in, make the next meal a good one and most importantly SMILE :-)

What you've always wanted

2010-02-23T13:57:00.000+11:00

You attempted something and it did not work. But that doesn't mean it will always fail to work.

When you truly desire to find a way, there is a way. Go back and remind yourself why you wanted to do it in the first place.

The obstacles you encounter do not prevent you from getting it done. Those obstacles enable you to get it done in a more creative, effective, realistic and sustainable way.

Right now you are more knowledgeable and experienced than you've ever been. Give it another go, and discover how much more effective you've become.

Don't fret about the opportunities you've missed. Instead, discover how those opportunities have now evolved.

The pathway may look different now, yet it is indeed still there. Confidently take that first step, and begin to do what you've always wanted to do.

xo xo xo

Mondayitis... no such thing !

2010-02-22T10:30:00.003+11:00

I am sure many are suffering from the good old case of Mondayitis!

HOWEVER, I dare you to try think positive about it being Monday and think about the new week as being the week to seek new opportunity, the week to kick some goals regarding your dreams and aspirations. The week to get things done, without procrastination. Afterall, whats the point in wasting your energy and time on thinking about how shit it is that its the start of another week.. Another week will come around again soon enough and you will once again be thinking negative thoughts.

If you are hitting Mondays and are consistently feeling down and depressed about work, or whatever it is you are doing, why don't you consider making the switch to something you will actually enjoy doing. How about seeking our new opportunities where you will wake up on a Monday and go HOORAY, another exciting week ahead !!

My week is a very busy one, but I see it as a great opportunity to once again build many exciting things in my life, reach my goals and come closer to my dreams, work at things that I have on my "to work on list" and bascially make the most of everyday that I have.

I love a Monday morning when I have already completed my training.. well most of it, and today that has been a one hour power walk and then my Day 1 program being Chest and Biceps Training. Both good sessions, even though my energy stores are fairly low at the moment due to being on a lowish carb diet.

Anyhoo, plenty to do so I must make leaps and bounds to get going.

I hope you all have your daily goals set out for the day, even if that is simply making your bed, or putting the washing out.. just do what you have planned to do for a while and watch how good it feels to get things done!!!

xoxox

Sunday - Progress Day

2010-02-21T09:39:00.000+11:00

Sunday is progress check day - well scales day anyway - as I am at the part of my progress where scales are not a good indicator at all of my results, I don't like ot use them or base anything on them, however i was pleasently surprised when I stepped on them this morning.

Everything seems to be on track and I am now 8 weeks out from comp time.

Today I weighed in at 57.8kg. I will most likely at comp time get between 52kg - 54kg so another approx 3.8kg - 5.8kg to go. With 8 weeks to go, I can do this at a slow and safe and steady pace. Just the way I like it. Would be nothing worse than jumping into a 12 week countdown and having a huge task ahead of you. I don't know why anyone would want to make things harder for themselves. I have my next DEXA scan in 2 weeks so that will be very interesting to see where I am at body fat wise.

So today I am catching up with my girl Kristy who I haven't seen in yonks as she is heading over West to be with her man, looking forward to some down time chilling out and catching up on girl talk. And of course wishing her the best of luck on the big, HUGE move over to the West !

Apart from that - cardio has been done for the day - This morning I completed a 1 hour power walk at moderate pace, I am very low on energy this morning so pushed as hard as I could with the energy reserves I have.

All in all, feeling great and ready to take on next week ! Its another crazy busy week but I guess its better than having nothing to do in life ! So bring it on !

OUCHIES !!

2010-02-20T07:12:00.002+11:00

Ouch, have you ever had a blister so painful that it is the only thing that you can think about!

This morning whilst doing my cardio out of nowhere... or should I say didn't know about, a blister I apparently had on my foot popped. As I was doing my cardio half way in I felt a huge amount of pain on my foot.. as I am Ms Stubborn cardio I refused to stop. Afterwards I walked into the kitchen to get my breakfast and realised I had let a trail of blood all the way through the kitchen. I am not kidding you, it wasn't even a big blister but the bleeding from it was totally out of control, as we speak I am nursing my foot with a heap of tissues and band-aids to try and stop the bleeding. Its not helpful when I am heading down to the gym shortly to train peps.

Anyway, not to worry, I will push through however it does hurt to walk on it!

Nonetheless, my cardio for the day has been done and I am ready to go and its only 7.15am on a Saturday! Big day ahead so i better get too it.!

I hope you all have some morning cardio planned before the day gets too warm !

Enjoy xx

Make the change today!

2010-02-19T08:32:00.002+11:00

It never ceases to amaze me at how many people want to get into shape, loose weight, get fit and toned (whatever Toned means).. and basically looking their best. HOWEVER, people then hear what they have to do to get there and they are never REALLY willing to do it. Or they are, initially and then after then first week or few weeks their new healthy lifestyle or plan is thrown out the window in place of a piece of chocolate cake or fried foods. One won't hurt but ! Or will it ? Anyway, seriously, I don't know about you .. but the picture above of the Maccas chips.. how can that even look tempting or worth wanting to put into your body..!

I have learnt, as part of my experience, that yes one will hurt, its not that eating one piece of chocolate or whatever it is you love that is unhealthy will make you fat straight away, its the fact that most of us don't have strong enough will power to just stick to "one". I know that I am only human too and if I indulge in a bit of dark chocolate (my favorite) I simply cannot stop at one.. Well I could, but I don't want too.. why it tastes so good and the satisfaction from it is so high.. however the downside is that the satisfaction of the feeling afterwards is really low! Nothing beats the shit house feeling of when you have overeaten and then the guilt follows, then the heck, I have stuffed up I might as well keep going and start tomorrow attitude... Ahhh Bad bad bad!

So, learn to change your mindset. I have taught myself that the simple satisfaction that I get from eating something that may taste good, but I KNOW makes me feel rotten afterwards is just not worth it. I would so much rather have a healthy meal of lean protein and some fresh garden salad or delicious steamed veggies, because no matter what I know i can eat, guilt free and not waste the rest of my day thinking about the damage afterwards.

Its all about the small changes in our thinking that will see us get big results !

Enjoy your Friday ! Rather than choose to go get pissed after work tonight, do different and go pump some iron or sweat it out with a good cardio session, because your body will certainly thank you for it tomorrow and you will be one step closer to your goals and dreams of the ultimate physique xx

Busy Bee Central !

2010-02-18T09:38:00.002+11:00

WOWW Weee ! The action has not stopped over the last day and a bit and thus I didn't have a chance to sit down at my laptop yesterday and blog!

So, I had a really long, but great day yesterday! Was up by 4.30am ensuring I could fit in my own training before my day begun !

The next few weeks for me sees my diary completely full every day which means there will be no time for sitting on my butt !! What a bonus.

I tell you what it makes a difference not sitting behind a desk everyday. My energy levels are so high even though I am waking earlier than ever and getting to bed later. I do have my moments where tiredness kicks in however, there is too much to do and too much excitement happening to think about it for too long!

So whats up for today - I have done a great hour cardio session, sweating from here to China and catch up on daily emails. Then its off to spend the afternoon down at Genesis Maidstone to take group classes and run the floor which I am loving every moment of. In between this I will be doing my own weight training down at Dohertys City which is where I do all of my training. So it is here there and everywhere, but I wouldn't have it any other way !

I hope this week sees many of you fulfilling your weekly goals, and getting closer to those bigger ones that you are working on daily! Nothing beats prgress and I stress to you how important it is to write down your goals every day and evaluate where you are at. Each and every day without fail I refer to my goals and ensure I am walking on the right path. If not, I re-assess and re-adjust to see where I can make improvements!

Its all part and parcel of having an organised and fulfilling life!

Bring on Today, Bring on Tomorrow and bring on the remainder of the week !

xo xo xo

WAKE UP - There is a life to be living today !!

2010-02-16T07:46:00.003+11:00

It's a totally invigorating feeling when it gets to 7.30am in the morning, and you have already sweated out an unreal cardio session, had your shower, eaten breakfast and then you are fired up and ready to go for the day. On the other hand, there would be people right now who are struggling to get out of bed, are rushing around trying to get ready for work and without eating a substantial breakfast before walking out the door... sound familiar!?

No matter how tired I am in the morning when my alarm goes off at 4.55am, I have two choices, the first is to lie in bed and moan about how tired I am and refuse to get up (even though I will have to get up eventually) or the second option is to Just get the hell up and get the hell on with it ! I always opt for choice 2.. why because no matter how much I am struggling at first, I know the the outcome is far better than if I were to sleep in, miss my morning fat burning cardio session and basically feel like crap for the rest of the day.

So, make the right choice tomorrow, step out of your comfort zone.. feel really uncomfortable and slog out a cardio session half asleep, cause I can guarantee after your first 10 - 15 minutes you will thank your lucky stars you did as you will feel on top of the world, endorphins will be running high, and then you can go into work that morning and tell everyone how good you feel from exercising first thing in the morning.. ! really, there are no downsides to it.. if anything.. you may be a little tired during the day and later in the evening.. but great - isn't it about time you got to bed a little earlier anyway !!!

Enjoy your Tuesday - The Sun is Shining in Melbourne - and its going to be a ripper day ! I am off to the gym now to do what I love doing most - embracing the health and fitness lifestyle

xoxox

Whats so bad about Mondays !?

2010-02-15T11:11:00.003+11:00

Its the start of the new week, which means new weekly goals, new opportunities and a heap of fun to be had!

My week has started in the most perfect way !!! Had a very early morning cardio session followed by some brekky and catch up on emails then went and trained Chest and Biceps which was a ripper session! I am loving the energy I have right now and nothing can stop me !! With that in mind it has been busy bees around our house too, doing feature walls, finishing off the down lights around the house and really starting to make our house into a home! Am I enjoying this journey - God Yeah! Its so much fun making your own place into somewhere where there is no where else you would rather be... apart from maybe the gym ! :-)

But truly, my life is in alignment now, I spend my days at the gym, speaking with people and assisting in their journey to health and well being and have a great work life balance to go with it, I get to spend heaps more time at home doing things around the house and basically doing everything that I actually want to do.. not dragging myself off everyday to do things that don't interest me. !

Today marks the 9 week count down to Sports Model 2010 and everything is going to plan.. so far so good, but I never, ever see this as a time to relax.. its just getting on with what I have to do to get the results I want! A little bit of hard work always pays off in the end.. as much as there are some things in life that are painful, take effort and basically need a good mental mindset.. they are ALWAYS worth it in the end.

Well, its off to the bank for me now, sorting out all of my finances and setting up new accounts and high interest savings etc and moving everything to the one place ! I love getting organised and every day is an opportunity for me to do just that!

I hope you have some exercise planned into your day... if you don't.. why not..! And I hope your next meal is one that is going to get your closer to your goals... if not.. don't waste another moment.. get prepared, no excuses and just Do it!

Enjoy Monday ! :-)

Happy Valentines Day !!

2010-02-14T12:23:00.002+11:00

WOW - What an amazing weekend! And, yes today I am so happy to say I finally had a sleep in! First in a long time, downside is, I actually feel more lethargic as I feel I have overslept now!

Oh well, what to do when you feel buggered, get the hell up and do some cardio! So that's what I have done this morning, only 30 minutes as I am going to spend the day doing a heap of catch up cleaning around the house, shopping to do all of my food prep for the week and playing with pup!

Also, of course, its Valentines Day, and I was totally astounded when I received a gift from my boyfriend today, some amazing lingerie, why is this amazing, as I have never received lingerie from him before! I am a sucker for lingerie and love the way I feel when I wear it, very sexy indeed !

My comp prep is going fantastic and I am all up to speed and making good progress, loving every moment of my journey and the prep that comes with it. Yes it has ups and downs, but the fun part is learning how to deal with these!

Yesterday I went to an amazing wedding, good friends of ours Sophie and Ryan ! WOW - Sophie you looking absolutely AMAZING.. it was possibly the most emotional wedding I have ever been too and I would think everyone who was there would agree ! So what a night, I had a ball! And carved up the dance floor later in the night which always doubles for a great cardio work out and a heap of fun!

So, cannot wait for another exciting week! Heaps on and lets get it started!

Hope you all have goals set out for this week! You know, the short ones where it brings you closer to your dreams !!! I know I do !

xoxox

Get to it...

2010-02-11T11:37:00.003+11:00

I don't know about you, however I cannot imagine my life without Health and Fitness.

I cannot imagine what it would feel like to be out of shape and unable to run around doing what I do of a daily basis.

I cannot understand how every human being doesn't want the best for their body so they are able to function properly, with a heap of energy and have that positive and healthy glow all day every day!

What gets me is that people spend so much of their time and money looking after everything but themselves. For example, yes Men love their cars... so why is it they will pay top dollar to give it the best engine, give it a spray job, put new rims on it and fill it with the best fuel available.. yet, when it comes to their own well being, they eat junk day in day out.. they do exercise only when they can be bothered, they drink in excess, they smoke etc and then they wonder why they always get sick!

Or the other one, the excuse maker. The I don't have enough time story. Apparently, last I heard we all have the same amount of hours in our day, however it is a matter of how each one of us manages our time. And trust me, getting up 1 hour earlier or even 30 minutes earlier to work on your fitness ain't gonna kill you. It's only going to give you more and vitality and longevity in your life. No matter what, everyone is tired, everyone cannot be bothered.. however the reason you are tired and un-bothered is because you are not moving enough. I dare you to get up 30 minutes to 1 hour earlier tomorrow than usual and go for a big walk... see how you feel after...

There are no downsides I can think of to living a healthy lifestyle.. so I dare you to get involved if your not already and watch your life change immensely!

xox xox xox

Hump Day

2010-02-10T07:54:00.002+11:00

So it seems there are simply not enough days in the week.. Its amazing how much you dont want the weeks or days to fly when you are actually enjoying what you do on a day to day basis.

The last 2 days have flown, they have been very productive for me but seem to not have enough hours in the day.

So its Wednesday and Hump Day for many... for the many that are dying for the weekend to hurry up and come... for those who hate what they are doing and dread every day as they have to go through another day of crap, boredemness and basically doing what doesn't interest them. Well I stress to those, step out of your comfort zone.. NOW.. just do what it takes to do what you are really passionate about and you will never ever work another day in your life.. the financial rewards will follow. And I know that most people worry about their financial situation however, no need to because if you are truly doing what you love doing.. money will follow. To be honest, I believe if you do worry about whether you will make enough money or not, maybe you are not that passionate about what it is that you think you want to do... When you love what you do, you make things happen, opportunities come and everything else follows.

I believe same goes with anything in life like training and eating right.. if you embrace what clean eating and good training can do in your life you will make the most of every session, make every meal clean and put first your body ! After all, without a healthy body, your mind won't be healthy, you won't function to your maximum capacity and I can probably guarantee you will always feel tired, lethargic and things seem a lot harder for you. I have never understood why people struggle to invest in themselves when it comes to health and fitness.

Why do people go out and spend say $200 on a night on the grog, eating shitty take-out food and buying cigarettes etc... all for what, some would say a "good night out" sure, you get pissed, make a dick of yourself and feel like shit the next day, if that's what your into great.. Invest in it.. but if you find yourself saying more often than not the next day, I am never drinking again, ahh I feel like shit, Im tired and grumpy.. well then have a think about investing that money into something that will benefit you like a healthy and fit lifestyle.. ! You may not regret it later in life when you have a body better than a 16 year old, have your healthy and vitality, energy to run around with your kids and basically a very grounded and happy person.. So whats stopping you........

I hope you all have an excellent day planned. I know i do, very busy today - Training Legs.. ohhh nooo this could be scarey - as yes its always my hardest session of the week however without hard work I wont have that hard sexy butt that we all strive to get !

Lets hope we see some sun today - in the mean time.. its time to catch up on some emails.

Have a great day !! xox

Going Clean...

2010-02-09T16:47:00.003+11:00

Woww weeeeee.... Is food just the most amazing thing !

Seriously - who would have thought that eating clean and just listening to your body and doing the right thing would make such an impact !

Can it be this simple.. YUP... so why is it always so hard for people to lose fat and stay that way.. because it is too easy these days to pick up take away for convenience, and its too easy for people to make excuses that they are too busy to be a little more organised in life.. I say there needs to be a new Public Holiday called "No more excuses Day".. because seriously.. when you just do stuff.. without thinking about it too much it will just happen.. Same with training.. like Nike says.. Just Do it.. its funny you may go a whole day thinking to yourself.. should I train tonight or shouldn't I... I am tired, cannot be bothered.. hrmmm I reckon you could have wiped over a good 30 minute session in all the time you thought about it.

I know when I am not feeling up to it.. that its only temporary.. because after I just get going I am loving it, and nothing in this world beats the feeling after a good session.. !! Couple that with eating the right think pre and post training and you are well on your way to a great physique.. If only I followed these rules many years ago I would be a lot further in my journey.. however things happen for a reason and when you, me or anyone is serious and ready to make big life changes.. you WILL do what it Takes and never, ever make excuses.. Besides I have learnt to you are only cheating yourself when you make excuses...

2010 is the year of no excuses. 2010 is the year of Doing not thinking... 2010 is the year of results. 2010 is...!!!

Bring on tomorrow for another day of serious progress and many exciting things !

Now for me.. Its off to training - High Intensity all the way... feeling fab and nothing less !

TUESDAY - Sun is Shining - Time for Cardio out in the great outdoors!

2010-02-09T07:18:00.002+11:00

A very big quick post for the moment - however, here is your perfect opportunity to go outside and get some vitamin D and some exercise at the same time!! Whether that be this morning, Lunch time or after you finish work today.. just do it.. don't think about it or make excuses.. after all, why wouldn't you want ot get out there. Take your kids, take your partner, take your dog... Just do it.!!!

Most of all - Enjoy it !

Gotta love living in Melbourne today!

2010-02-07T11:45:00.002+11:00

I reckon that if your a Melbournian today - you are pretty lucky!

Could this weather be any better ! And what a day for some "Summer Cleaning".

As we speak my hard working boy is outside cleaning all of our windows and we are also very excited to say all of our Roman Blinds are getting installed today - so no more curtains. This is GREAT!!!!!!! We are also doing a wardrobe overhaul and we are going to donate anything we don't want to charities such as Salvation Army. Its such a good feeling to have a good clean out, and especially now that I don't need to wear corporate attire anymore.. YIPEE oh my.. what a feeling that is... I love being able to wear casual and not have to really think about what I have to wear the next day!

Its so wierd knowing I don't have to go into an office and sit at a desk all day tomorrow, for that matter the next day and the next day... its very refreshing and I don't have Sundayitis one bit.. I cannot WAIT for next week to get started as so many exciting things are happening.. So rather than dread the day going quickly.. i am embracing every moment of it.!

The rest of my weekend has been amazing. I had a sensational day yesterday and got so much important work done. I have my flyers ready to go and price lists and my good friend Terrence worked wonders on assisting me with this.

The most exciting part of the day was also a scary one.. I am not liking to admit this however, I have been converted... I have ALWAYS been an ASICS sneaker wearer and was never willing to change - However after much deliberation, I have seriously found the most comfortable sneakers... BROOKS..... I have included a photo, because I can seriously say my cardio session this morning was out of control... I guess having new sneakers too is a great motivation to get too it !

Well I hope you have all had a wonderful weekend and that you have a fun relaxing afternoon organised today!

Its 10 weeks to go until comp time now and I am well on my way and very happy with my progress to date. I am just working week by week and finding the journey so great this year.. I don't think about what I am doing much anymore... I just do it.. when you just do it you make no excuses and its just part of what you do and the lifestyle you lead.

xoxox

Fresh Start - As good as a holiday !

2010-02-06T09:03:00.002+11:00

GOOD MORNING - Welcome to the weekend.

A glorious sunny day in Melbourne and I feel TOPS today!

I just finished my cardio session for the day and choose to do a one hour session on the treadmill power walking and included 2 incline parts at 15! What a sweat session! I topped this off with my FAVORITE breakfast, that being a bowl of oats with a WPI shake. Yummo ! I usually swap this around with egg whites however I do swap things around so I don't get bored.. variety is the spice of life after all!

So yesterday marked a huge day in my life and it was so exciting however sad at the same time. I finished up my career working in an office as an EA, something which I have been doing for over 6 years now.. Yes sitting at a desk for many many hours over 6 years.. that's some serious arse time and also serious non fat burning time where I have gone out of my mind many times as I am the sort of person who loves to move around.. when I sit for too long I feel sluggish and basically crap! So, this morning I woke up and it was almost like my life had been reinvented! The thought of not having to step back into an office on Monday morning is the best move I have ever made in my life.. the thought of running my own schedule, making my own money and basically being my own boss is possibility the most fulfilling and exciting thing that I could ever do for myself.. So bring it on.. here's to a new start and massively exciting times ahead. I seriously should have done this so long ago.. that is step out of the little comfort zone and made something for myself.. oh well, my time has come now and i will make the most of every opportunity that comes my way!

This also gives me an even better chance to really focus in on the next 10 weeks leading into my comp in April. I am also competing in the Face of Icon comp in 2 weeks time which will be a good small practice on stage ! Every little bit helps so that will be a lot of fun.

Until then I have a crazy day with meetings for new opportunities and catching up on some shopping time with my good friend Terrence and basically getting organise for a new and fresh start!

I hope you all have a great weekend and have plenty to smile about ! xxx

Let's all get a little honest with ourselves !

2010-02-02T16:47:00.000+11:00

Happy Tuesday – I cannot believe it’s almost hump day tomorrow – I am seeing out my final week at my current company as EA and it also marks the final week of being in a desk bound job… !! That, I have to say is very refreshing.. I absolutely know it is not my role to be sitting behind a desk, I have too much energy to give out there and will be giving it all. After 7 years working at a desk,, it is time to move on !!! I also go crazy when I have to sit on my butt all day and not keep active… so a big cheers to that, and a big cheers to all the extra calories I will burn now as I will be on my feet a heap! A change in career totally feels like I am going on a holiday.. so YAY – I am on holidays as of next week – Excitement Plus!!

So just my thought for the day…… and a bit of a change of tone..

Lately, there is one thing I have learnt for certain, and that is that you will never ever be able to keep everyone happy !

Also, I have learnt it is really pointless trying to because no matter what there will always be someone who is disappointed.

At the end of the day, you have to do what you want to do, what you are happy to do and what is right for you. In any situation, I believe people need to stand up more and put their foot down once in a while rather than let people stand all over you. This year, I am doing just that and it really makes a huge improvement on the well being of my life and what I am doing.

I used to feel so bad when I would let people down, (and I am talking when it is not my fault or could simply not be helped)… why did I get the “feel bads” and the “oh no, stressing about it for days/weeks on end”.. because I simply didn’t want to let people down.. however, it is just a part of life and people do need to be able to say no more and say what they are feeling more.. and people also need to stop getting so offended if you say something truthful… after all.. whats the point in getting around and lying just because it’s what you think people want to hear… it’s just not on.. and my new rule is to speak openly and honestly, in any situation, and when I do have an issue or need to discuss something, I will do just that.. It’s amazing how good you feel when you are able to talk things out with someone, or sort out issues in a mature way – without any anger involved! Its exactly like the situation of a girl asking if her butt looks big in this.. wellll… I could probably say that 99% of any human would lie even if her arse was as big as a elephants backside.. yet if people were to tell the truth… like.. “Yes, your butt does look huge in that”.. I could guarantee that it would result in a broken friendship… Go Figure!

Anyway, I guess my point is.. I think we all need to start being a heap more honest with ourselves, in the conversations we have daily and in everything we do.. can you honestly sit there and say yes I love what I do.. I am so happy with where my life is at the moment, I am so happy with my body and wouldn’t change a thing… well ask yourself that … I know I did, and nothing beats a massive reassessment of where you are at.. because when you do.. and actually do something about it.. your life will totally change forever and you won’t look back…

So, here’s to telling it how it is… 

Have a great night.. I am off to slaughter myself for 1 hour in the gym with a High Intensity Session tonight…. And all the better I will feel afterward as yes I have been on my butt all day in a chair.. !!

No such thing as Sundayitis anymore....

2010-01-31T08:57:00.003+11:00

Whoo Hooo... could this be the first Sunday that I am not suffering Sundayitis..! And yes I have suffered many a Sundayitis's in the past!

My theory is you know that you love what you are doing in life if you get to Sunday and don't dread Monday !!! I am so pumped about the new week, as I have new challenges, new and exciting progress and another week of training hard, eating well and getting results !

Yesterday I have my third DEXA scan and I was pretty damn happy with the progress I have made since my last DEXA which was 2 months ago.

Over the Xmas and New Years period, I have to say I let myself go a bit.. with regard to eating anyway - my training was up to speed as always however, I didn't hold back when it came to eating my favorite desserts, dark chocolate, Big BBQ's with hot crispy bread and well, the list goes on.. all in all.. I wasn't too concerned about what I was eating.. in saying that, I didn't go too nuts as I always makes sure I don't go totally overboard, however I didn't stress myself out over the whole eating thing.. I was training pretty hard and allowing myself some treats.

So at my last DEXA Scan - for those of you who don't know what this is or means.. check out this link which explains the process - http://www.bodycomposition.com.au/index.php?pageid=2

My previous DEXA showed I had a body fat percentage of 18.5% and 63kg and yesterday I was down to 16.4%. I have increased my lean muscle mass over my whole body and my weight was at 59.1kg. So I have to say I am happy with where I am going and I now have set my goals to reach by my next DEXA in early March. I plan to lose another 2% of body fat by this time and be around the 55kg mark.. achievable.. absolutely.. exciting.. YEP!

So in order to do this, I will be making my meal sizes smaller and also up my cardio a few days a week to doing two sessions. I will see where this takes me for the next few weeks and judge from this how my body responds. See I have learnt this time around, that losing fat and getting in shape should not be complicated.. it is simply listening to your body, experimenting what works for you and what is getting you results... its not fair to say (at all) that what works for that person, will work for me.. so this is where getting a generic program from someone just because they got good results won't mean I will get the same.

I have also learnt that when you do think about it too much and make it complicated you will eventually cave and the experience will not longer be fun.. So make it fun, make it a challenge to better yourself.. no compete with the next person. I am finding this journey so much fun and loving seeing the results and doing what works and feels right for me !

Well its Sunday and I have enjoyed my nice long hour power walk and the wind is blowing a gail out my way so I had extra resistance the entire walk.. all the better for me as I had to seriously push myself to the max!

I hope you all have a great relaxing Sunday, I am off to do some food preparation for the week :-)

xox

Another week down - another week of progress !

2010-01-29T18:32:00.002+11:00

Yihhaaa, what a special day I have had!!

Things are really kicking at the moment and I couldn't be happier.. just when you think you are in a situation that is making you miserable and you find yourself day in day out just not living life the way you should.... when you are ready.. something will make you just turn your life around for good!

I have learnt the most unbelievable things over the last 3 days, and have also had a lot of time to reflect on what I had been doing over the last 6 months and work out what it was that was getting me down more than up! It also makes you realise HOW IMPORTANT it is to be doing something everyday that you are passionate about. I cannot stress that enough.. make the most out of every day you have and you will not be sorry.. In my case, I had to slow down and smell the roses... really consider why the hell I was staying somewhere where I simply was not happy, and that the only driving factor was $$.... then it occurred to me.. if only I was doing what I love doing everyday and making money from it.. I would never work another day in my life... so there was only one thing to do and that was to simply make it happen.. and that I did.. So many opportunities have already come knocking on my door, but not from me doing nothing.. they have come as I CHOOSE to go out and seek opportunity.. to SEEK out what was important to me and make it happen.. to me that has been the key.. not juts talking about it.. but actually getting out there and doing it !

Anyhow, I have been a little verbal over the last few days about all of this, simply because I am so excited about whats to come and thrilled that I "Felt the Fear and did it anyway"!!

Tomorrow (Saturday 30th January) marks 11 weeks from comp day and I am right on track. At 11am tomorrow morning I have my next DEXA scan which will show me where I am at regarding body fat % and all the other details.. So my last DEXA which was in November 2009 I was at 18.8% body fat... tomorrow morning my goal is to be at 17%... and yes I guess I will be a little pissed off if I am not at that, because I have to say I have been working my arse off with training.. and I have also been pretty spot on with my clean eating over the last 3 weeks... Anyhow.. we will wait and see... no use in getting all uppety about it yet until I get my results... my current weight (this morning) was 59.3kg.. so the scales are going down however I am very rarely weighing myself... only once a week just to keep things in check!

Hope you all have fun things planned for the weekend and that you get out and do something fun and active!

Here's to Week 11 countdown.

OH and PS - Best of Luck to my man Kade.. he is in the Hottest Hunk 2010 comp which will be on at the Barkley Hotel on Friday 12th February so hope heaps of you can get down to see that he makes the final.

Also the week after I will be competing in the Face of Icon Bar comp on Flinders Lane which will be great fun and there are lots of exciting cash prizes to be won!

So lots happening and looking forward to the next month

Okie Dokie.. its time to go cook dinner.. its all about juicy steak tonight with a big green salad ! YUM !

xoxo

New Beginings

2010-01-28T16:50:00.002+11:00

Well I can now officially announce that I have FINALLY decided to do what I should have done a very long time ago, however for whatever reason, perhaps fear, scared etc.. I never did.. what a stupid mistake.. I am so meant to be where I am heading now.

I officially resigned from my full time position as an Executive Assistant in order for me to move into my field of passion, that being health and fitness... and oh what a feeling it is to finally know that I will wake up and do everyday what i feel most strongly for.. not simply just "going to work for someone else, too make someone else wealthy".. however working for myself, making my own money, being responsble for my own cash flow, having the perfect work/life balance and actually doing different EVERY single day ... not doing the same thing, every day, week after week, month after month..

My life.. even after a few days, has made a HUGE turn and I couldn't be happier. I think you realise you are in the wrong place in your life when you are so tired, stressed, down and just feeling out of line and not doing what you wish or think you should be doing.. It has also made me realise that so many of us stay in a position simply because they are comfortable and fearful to take a leap into the unknown... all I can say is DO IT... you have NOTHING to lose... everything to gain!!

Things from this day will be very different, very very different... including my preparation for comp.. when you are in the right environment .. ie.. for me this is in a health and fitness environment.. everything you do relates..when you are surrounded by those who don't quite understand what you are doing or why, things can get very tricky at times.. there is nothing wrong with that... as its defintitly not always everyone's cup of tea to eat healthy and not drink or poison your body, however when it does come to living this sort of lifestyle.. i have still realised a lot of people will do anything in their right mind to make you feel like an idiot, bad or just plain right stupid about what your doing.

Anyhow, everything is on track and I am going great with my eating and training.. and home life is doing great also.. career wise.. I am now moving into the right place for me so everything is starting to align.. the sleepless nights should now stop, and my health should get back to normal .. this is VERY exciting !

I have a DEXA scan this weekend to see how my body fat levels are fairing and to see where I am at 11 weeks out from comp!

So all in all.. I am finally really feeling like i am in the place i am meant to be and there is lots of exciting things to come.. !

In the meantime, its off to the gym for me to train Back and Triceps.! :-) xx

OH YUM !

2010-01-23T13:33:00.002+11:00

I have to brag today - because I have seriously made the best most tastiest piece of Atlantic Salmon today for lunch... and with no sauce, just a squeeze of lemon juice..! I can honestly say its the best piece of Salmon I have ever had ! A local butcher has opened in our area and today I bought all of our weeks worth of meat from here.

Included in this was chicken breast, steaks, beef and some Atlantic Salmon.. and what can I say, if the chicken is as good as what my salmon was I had for lunch today then I will be one very happy lady ! Not only that, they stock wholesale so very cheap.. for those of you who are regulars at buying chicken you know how expensive it can get.. I purchased my chicken breast today for $6.90kg... not bad considering it can be anywhere up to $12 - 13kg.

Kai our puppy also enjoyed the morning down at Dohertys "On Shift" ensuring both Kade and I trained properly and yes he won the hearts of many members at the gym...

On another note, I have a fun night ahead with Sophie's Hens night which is a cruise around Docklands.. no I cannot have the finger food or alcohol, but I can dance the night away and have a ball still... love getting dressed up so this WILL be a great night !

Speaking of.. I have so many weekend chores to do, so I better get going !!!

xoxo

The weekend is here... well almost !

2010-01-22T15:12:00.001+11:00

WOW – What a way to finish the week off! I love Friday’s not just because it’s the weekend.. but at this time on a Friday I have completed my last weights session for the week.. At the moment I am training with weights 5 times a and by Friday I am pretty damn knocked. The thing I look forward to on the weekends is that I can go for two leisurely 1 hour power walks on Saturday and Sunday. Its so good to give my body a rest and get ready for another tough week in the gym!

Most smart people have taken Monday off for a long weekend, however I will be working, which is fine, but a sleep in and non-Sundayitis is always good over the weekend. It will keep me in check anyway keeping to the routine of a 5am wake up Monday morning to go training.

So tomorrow marks 12 weeks until comp time and to date my progress has been really good.

For 2 weeks, I haven’t had one cheat meal.. and for once in my life I just don’t think about crappy foods, it doesn’t really even enter my mind to want to have anything bad.. when you start to see progress.. why would you want to cheat yourself.. I know that it’s not even worth me trying as I will just get the guilts on so bad that I cannot be bothered dealing with it. Besides… I feel way to good to ruin a good thing now!

So this weekend there will be some serious incidental exercise happening… Kade and I are in desperate need to clean our house from top to toe… we have got our driveway in now so the dust and dirt which was being carried in will be settled by later today so I can actually keep things pretty clean! We have our final quotation for our romans throughout the house on Monday morning so then we can finally get our window furnishings within 4 weeks or so.. After this, I can get into the fun stuff like getting some art work on the walls, putting up photos and decorating the house.

Kade has plenty of work to keep himself busy for the next year with the alfresco, gardens and all the boys stuff like getting a shed etc in the back yard.

Exciting times ahead..

I hope you all have a great weekend and do lots of stuff to keep yourself active.. I know I will, and I also know I will be feeling great once again on Monday morning after having an alcohol and junk free weekend! 

What have I learnt so far.....

2010-01-21T17:07:00.003+11:00

Next Monday 25th January marks 2 weeks into my comp prep (14 weeks in total) and this Saturday marks 12 weeks until comp day!

So, what have I learnt in the past two weeks:

** That it actually really pisses some people off when you don't eat bad food with them.

** That it really pisses some people off if you don't drink.

** That some people treat you different just because your eating clean foods and not drinking - like I am some sort of socially weird person... and that it must change me as a person because of this... hrmmm - In no way shape or form has my attitude, presence or personality changed, I am still the same person but just choosing to eat better and cut out the turps!

** That I actually enjoy myself more when I am not totally intoxicated and can actually remember how much fun I had the night before. My body also thanks me for it the next day.

** That no matter what, there will always be someone who will try and deter or break all your efforts.. and make you feel bad if you have the balls to stand up for yourself and what you are trying to achieve.

** That I am actually doing less cardio (a lot less than before I started dieting) and am still loosing weight (fat) every day.. my clothes are getting looser every day, and I am only doing 30 minutes of cardio per day.

** That it absolutely comes down to what you eat in order to lose fat and look better. I have learnt that no matter how much cardio you do, that unless your diet is squeaky clean.. you will not get the physique you always dreamed of. So think about that the next time you go to put those chips, chocolate, lollies or take away junk in your gob... no amount of extra cardio will really make up for it!

** That my confidence level is building every day and I am feeling seriously special the more I am looking after myself (nutritional wise and listening to my body).

** That I have wasted so much $$ on useless supplements, pills and potions that claim to be the dream product to lose the battle of the bulge, or stop your appetite etc... once again.. if you are putting the right foods in our mouth.. ie. lean proteins, low GI carbs and good fats.. your body will work the way it is meant to and you will drop fat very easily. Of course, supplements are there to assist.. but supplements alone, without a clean diet to work alongside of these.. you are wasting your hard earned $$.

** That there are so many people out there on the same journey and that most people face exactly the same issues as I have been experiencing.

** That no matter what obstacles get in my way - I am strong enough to deal with any of them and just see them as a "What can I learn from this" experience or "What is the best way to deal with this"

** That my mind plays the biggest part in all of this - I am a lot tougher than I first though when it comes to the training department.. if you are in a really hard session and you feel like giving up.. there is always something left to give...ALWAYS.. Just use your mind power and it will happen.

** That I have seriously good coaching support and that there are people out there who actually do want to see you succeed!

Anyhow, those are just some of the things I have learnt so far, and I am sure i have so much more to learn. Its so exciting and I seriously love waking up everyday ready for the next challenge th eday will spit at me.

On another note, I wish my mum the quickest and best recovery after her operation today. I hope this fixes your breathing problems and that your health gets back to A1 in no time. Funny inst it.. it is always the person who is healthy, eats well, never smoked, hardly every drinks and exercises every day that seems to get unwell!! Go Figure!

Its almost the weekend so its time to get excited.. I am off to train Back and Triceps tonight and then enjoy a night in with a DVD and green tea !

Yippeee its almost Thursday !

2010-01-20T17:03:00.001+11:00

Hello Melbourne Sunshine.. ! It’s good to see its back again….. Monday felt like it was winter again! Yuk!

Anyway – I am barely walking today – Tuesday and Wednesday is a double up for me.. Tuesday evening I get smashed by the Pocket Rocket for an hour and then Wednesday morning I get smashed in my PT session with Al White at Doherty’s. So yes after lunging up hills and squats galore to some serious legs on Wednesday morning.. I would love a pair of crutches right now.. ! But it’s all good pain, and the results will speak for themselves!

Eating is all on track and I am feeling nice and light.. This Saturday marks 12 weeks until comp time so it will be good to see how I measure up after 2 weeks of pure clean eating and training.

So, news for me… loving the company of the new pup around the house… its really refreshing coming home to this cute little face who is whimpering to see you after being away all day.. and then he follows us both around looking for attention.. very, very cute.! Our Driveway got started today which is extremely exciting for us as we have been living with a big long dusty makeshift now since we moved in mid December. I am also excited to have the curtain people coming out tomorrow afternoon to finally get our window furnishings organised. YAY 

Anyhow, I am thinking I need to get out and enjoy the rest of the afternoon sun!

A short and sweet blog today as I have a heap to do this afternoon – so enjoy the rest of your day and have a great Thursday !

A New Week... New Challenges ....!

2010-01-18T14:06:00.000+11:00

Can you believe half of January has already gone! I think this year is going to fly by in a big way !

For many 2010 marks a big year and I also have many exciting plans that will roll out over the next 12 months!

IN the meantime, it’s all about the short to medium term goals which I am working on and that being today marking 13 weeks out from stage time.

1 week in and I am feeling fab, I have had a few moments where I thought hrmmm… I wish I could have some hot bread with butter .. hehe but those soon pass.. as I realise how good I am feeling, how well my body is functioning and how unreal it will feel to get up on stage in April after many months of hard work and determination!

After a great weekend I am well into the new week and had a good session this morning training Chest and Biceps and also added in my cardio session this morning. Eating is all Ay Ok and I am loving my plan as I feel light as a feather.. and for once haven’t been bloated one bit ! It’s a great feeling knowing I do not have to curl myself over my desk after lunch as I ate too much or the wrong thing in general! I don’t miss that at all !

I stress to those out there looking to go on a bit of a health kick and/or tidy up your eating, to just stick it through at least the first week and I promise it then gets so easy.. I can vouch for this as I am the sort of person who LOVES to have snacks each day including Dark choccy, any sweet biscuits and basically anything sugary like lollies that taste good. For me, it was having to give these things up that was hard in the first week however I have to say once you are in the swing of things you don’t really think about them.. Even at the wedding I went to on Saturday night, when the dessert came out.. I looked at it for a second and thought.. OH YUM … however it seriously passed within 20 seconds after thinking to myself how shit house I would feel after if I ate it.. and all for say a couple of minutes of tasty pleasure in my mouth.. no thanks.. Nothing tastes as good as being in shape does. Instead I hit the dance floor and boogied all night.. not only getting a cardio workout.. but having the time of my life!

And I really believe training is the easy part, it’s the nutrition that’s hard for most, after all if it were easy we would all have amazing physiques … it is never easy to get on top of your eating habits, but once you do, you will wonder why you found it so hard in the first place to resist temptation and give in to the sugar fix. I have to say I am learning (already) so much about my thought patterns etc whilst going through this journey and just how much our thinking controls what we do.. and if you can finally get control over that mind of yours… it’s amazing how really powerful we are as human beings.. Lately I have been using my mind power in everything I do.. and can always now say to myself.. Yes you can Vicky…. Especially in training sessions where I am being thrashed to the point I want to stop.. there is something inside that says.. I will NOT give up.. because GIVING UP IS NOT AN OPTION!

Power to me…

Enjoy your week .. Make it a good one.. See the positives and Smile !

1 Whole week down... 13 too go !!

2010-01-17T16:03:00.002+11:00

So as a wrap up for this week.. what can I say.. I really can surprise myself sometimes and I am so proud that I got through my first pre-comp weekend without stuffing up once.. I stuck to the plan.. I didn't have any temptation to do otherwise and I can tell you now... what a great feeling that is.

I have to say I was a little bit worried about my first weekend... with a wedding and all.. but it was so easy .. yeah sure I took my own grub.. however I didn't make it obvious, I simply bought a small bag with my food for the evening and when the meals came out I just quickly slide my chicken and greens onto my plate.. so easy and no one would have know.. I did get the occasional how come your not drinking.. however Kade always answers before I can even speak, as he is pretty proud and happy and I going through this journey and has no hesitation in telling peoples why I am opting for the "clean lifestyle". I quite simply don't care what people think anyway about this whole matter .... there are always people in the batch who seem to see it as a problem if you decide to not drink or eat the crap they are eating .. however it comes down to them trying to hide the fact that they probably feel guilty about it themselves... and no its not about being a stick in the mud.. its about me... as a person.. just trying to achieve a goal.. ! So... get over it and worry about more important things I say to those people ...! And if they still struggle with the whole concept of me doing what I am doing.. its their problem and they can deal with it..!

Waking up this morning was the best ever.. Its been a while since i have woken up on a Sunday.. feeling so great as I didn't do the old stuff my face because its Saturday night ! As for the alcohol.. to be honest, I am not even a big drinker anyway.. so that's not loss at all... don't miss it one bit!

This weekend has also seen me enjoy two nice hour long power walks each day and also PLENTY of puppy time, as we picked up our new bundle of joy on Friday night... he has been brilliant and hasn't been whingeing at all during the night.. I think we got the good one out of the batch !

This afternoon I have spent an hour and half preparing all of my lunches and snacks for the week and also packed my bag ready for the gym first thing in the morning.

So all in all.. what a great week.. I haven't stepped on the scales for the past two days as its time I gave them a miss... they play too much of a mind game.. and say i don't see any change one day, I dont want to go through the negativity that comes with it. For as long as I am sticking to the plan, eating clean, doing my training... the results will speak for themselves!

So here's to another busy week and enjoyable one in the gym, eating clean and also some other exciting things that are happening in my life... which are starting to turn into reality.. all very exciting.

Lets go Week 13.. I'm ready when you are !

We have a name !

2010-01-14T14:27:00.001+11:00

We FINALLY have chosen the name for our new baby which arrives tomorrow night.. And no, not of the human kind.. DEFINITLY not ready for that type of baby.

Our little Weimeranar X Vizla is being picked up at 7.00pm tomorrow night and he will be coming home to very loving parents “so to speak”.

As we do not have side gates at home yet, Kade spent a lot of time this week building a makeshift temporary fencing around our Alfresco area as we have no garden yet.. this leads into part garden and a big Kennel which Kade built! Oh he is going to be one spoilt doggie!

So the new name that he will be known as is KAI or some may spell is Ky but we are going with Kai.

Aside from that exciting news, all is on track and feeling good today – well I have to admit, I am VERY tired but who isn’t always tired these days… it’s a no brainer that most human beings are suffering from sleepy syndrome.. but you just push through and try not to think about it, that is until Sunday when we can sleep in .. YAYYY.. I don’t know about you.. but my Saturdays do not consist of sleep ins anymore. When you work all week, Saturday becomes another working day however at home.. a week’s worth of chores to do such as cleaning, washing, shopping, preparing of meals for the next week and everything else that you cannot fit in during the week. So yes Sunday is the sleep in day and I am very much looking forward to it this Sunday especially as Saturday night may be a late night due to the wedding I have on.

So the scales (once again I stress, isn’t a big factor in this) – and I shouldn’t even be getting on them so I have been naughty… however I was 60.6kg this morning, so down again from yesterday.. would be nice to see 60kg on the scales by Sunday … just because I haven’t been down to that in yonks (Well since the Ralph Swimwear last year when I got down to 57.5kg… but that weight didn’t last too long though.. !).. and yes I’m only female.. and what do females want to see… a nice figure on the scales. I gotta say though.. my happy weight range in general is between 60 – 63kg.. that’s what I generally stay at for most of the year, if I get above that I knuckle down…!

Training is going ACE! I am DAMN sore from Legs yesterday – Thanks Al… and cardio was a struggle today due to that but pushed through.

Here’s to another day! x

To me....this is what it is about.....

2010-01-13T16:14:00.000+11:00

So, I have learnt that no matter how hard you try, sometimes there are people that you will never please or keep happy. These are the sort of people that can quite frankly become draining and too much to bother with. So what do you do.. you just get on with life and basically I think you need to have the “move on” attitude… sometimes in life as much as you don’t really want to.. however you need to re-jiggle friendships that don’t quite work out anymore and that don’t fit your lifestyle.. I don’t mean this to sound harsh, I simply mean that people need to stop being so afraid of letting go of the old and letting in new and more “fittable” people into your life. People that will surround you with positivity, people that will actually support what you are doing in your life, rather than try and bring you down or make you feel like shit, people that offer constructive feedback and help in areas they may be more experienced at. What about people that want to ride the wave with you and take on challenges, go through the ups and downs and in betweens… hrmm maybe they are harder to find these days… or maybe not.. maybe looking in all the wrong places.

Anyhow, it’s amazing how when you push aside people like this how refreshing your life can be… It’s like girls (or guys for that matter) who stay in abusive relationships because they feel stuck or just get lazy enough to bother about going through the uncomfortable effort of leaving… but no doubt soon after realizing it was the best thing they could have ever done. I don’t get girls who do stay with guys who don’t show them the love, support, passion and basically don’t show real enthusiasm about the relationship in the first place.. gets me…

Anyhow, enough ramble.. I’m feeling great today ! My nutrition is totally on track and weighed in at 61kg today.. so not bad for 3 days effort… starting at approx 63kg on Sunday..but as I said it’s really not about the weight at all… it’s about my body fat and my measurements and of course most importantly.. how I look! .. however, it is always nice to watch the scales go down, watch our clothes fit nicer and watch how good we feel after just a few days of this lifestyle.. so basically to sum it up.. I AM LOVING THIS.. and LOVING my training and loving the whole journey so far. This coming Sunday marks my first week down then it’s down to 13 weeks to go… I actually cannot wait to be put in the whole situation this weekend (a wedding I am attending) where there will be food and alcohol… because I really believe that I have grown so much strength over the last year that I no longer have the “really want the cake” or “Really want the wine or tasty food”, because I don’t, because these events shouldn’t ever just be about that (you know you hear of people say… oh I cannot wait.. there will be so much free grog and so many sweet desserts and unreal finger food) … and this is because I DO know what I want.. and that is to succeed regardless of the situation and show myself I CAN do this.. I am not competing against anyone else (so to speak) but myself.. because, and this is the truth, I want to do this for me.. to prove I can have the discipline and guts to get the hell up on stage and prove that this is want I am passionate about.. and that is living a healthy, fit, happy and passionate life filled with laughter, fun, frivolity and friends/family. xox

Transformation in Progress....

2010-01-12T15:46:00.002+11:00

And her head goes bang, bang, bang… Yes I have a bit of a headache today, and I am thinking its because my body is detoxing and getting used to a lot less carbs than what I was eating two days ago… and a lot less sugar and a lot less crap in general!!

It’s funny, it’s a different sort of headache, almost good as I can feel my body getting its “mojo” back after all the crap that went into it over the last few months.. especially over the xmas and new years break ! Its also amazing how quickly you can drop a few kgs as soon as you go on to completely clean eating.. Yesterday I weighed in at 62.9kg and this morning I was 61.6kg.. and yes this would be water weigh.. however still, its not often.. or ever I see such a big drop just over night.. so it will be exciting to see how I am going in a weeks time.. I guess I will see what my average sort of weight is as my body after 1 week of this will be in full swing of the clean lifestyle.. then its only 13 weeks to go.. and yes of course.. I do not in any way plan to pig out after my first comp this year.. however I am only human.. and will be looking forward to much missed Evia Yogurt and some Dark Chocolate! Yum Yum..

But at the moment I am focused and not moved at the thought of cheating at all.. cause after all the only person I am cheating is myself.. so have no interest in doing that this year ! None at all, zilch.. It’s a good feeling! And as I said in earlier blogs.. there are a lot of things that will REALLY test me like events, parties and weddings I have to attend, but this is where I am excited to really show my true strength and discipline.. and how much I really want the results I am aiming for!

Anyhow, I am pumped about Fit Hour tonight.. Whether or not I will have as much energy as normal (I am guessing not) however.. I am slowly working out how seriously tough I can be if I put my mind to it.. or anything for that matter.. Mind over Matter.. !

On an exciting note, the little pup is being picked up this Friday night.. so very excited about him.. cannot believe it either as a non- dog person I never thought I could actually get this pumped about it.. he is just so cute and will be nice to have a bit of puppy love!

Aside from that, my first challenge hits this weekend.. I have a wedding and I plan to do no harm to my body.. in other words.. definitely no drinking (that’s a no brainer) and yes I will take my own food! Resisting all those sweet temptations could be difficult.. but I will be fine as I know what I want.. and that’s to get through a simple 14 weeks (almost 13 by then)… so no stress.. there will be plenty more weddings to come after my comp where I can enjoy the full hog.. besides.. why on earth would I even bring up the food.. because the reason I love weddings is simply to see two people tie the knot, the dancing and the catching up with people you haven’t seen in ages! So bring on the fun and frivolity without the guilt the next day ! 

Just a thought....

2010-01-11T19:17:00.003+11:00

So Day 1 is down, well day 1 into Week 14 out from comp, and so far so good.. Yes I feel good now but it is only the way I feel now, it certainly doesnt mean I will feel good tomorrow or the next day, however I will try my best to keep positive about the whole thing, stay pumped, amped and everything else that comes with this cool journey!

Its amazing how good you feel even after 1 day of totally clean eating. ! Yes my body is already thanking me for it.. no bloating, no feeling like shit, no worries!!

I could certainly live like this.. (the way I feel I mean) all the time.. so why is it that most of us put things in our body that make us feel like shit... for me its that instant gratification of that creamy dark chocolate that makes me feel soo good... however not for long..not after the guilt kicks in and the stuff it I have eaten it now I may as well go the whole hog.. YUK!!!

So now, its about how god I feel every time i have that next meal of steamed greens and grilled chicken. Its how I won't feel bloated like normal, its how I feel like and full of energy, its how my skin will start to shine once more.. (give that one a few weeks).. however I cannot wait for tomorrow, and the next day, and the next week and the next month.. because this feels way too good!

Whipped over a nice Chest and Biceps session this morning, felt it was a great session followed by a good 30 minutes on the elliptical trainer! You see I love to get my workouts done first thing in the morning as I have no excuses later in the day (not that I would make any as my favorite place to be is Dohertys Gym City - like my second home and feel great when I walk in the door) - but to be honest if I dont train first thing in the morning, I feel like shit.. and I think about it up until the time I get into the gym... getting up early is no effort, because each and every day is one step closer to those perfect pins, pert tush and fine upper lines that a sports model must have. so bring on tomorrow!!

So, anyway sitting down to dinner tonight my man and I were talking about how cool it would be to win tomorrow nights $20M draw for which we got a ticket in... and i am sure heaps of you guys also have the same discussions or thoughts .. anyway its interesting and you know when you are pretty happy and content when you can honestly say you wouldn't move, rather keep the place you live in, however just buy some investment properties so you have a every lasting income, get out and travel and then the first thing I would do is give my parents back everything they have given too me.. its really hard to imagine how much over the last 28 years however its always one thing that I think about, like rocking up to mum and dads one day with a gorgeous new couple of cars, and a big fat cheque so they could buy a new house or two by the beach or something of their dreams, and travel the world.. ! There are also a few other close friends who I would set up for life, who have also helped me along the way and are always there for me when the going gets tough.. I would definitely show them how much they mean, because of everything they do for me... gee it would be good.. I would also donate some to the RSPCA to help save some of the poor innocent animals. Anyway, its an interesting topic and I could go on forever day dreaming.. just like I am again now...

Life would be a dream !! ...

However, as much as winning tattslotto would be nice.. nothing beats the fact that I pretty damn content in my life right now, I have a beautiful house, a great partner, unreal family, some seriously unbelievably good friends in my life and I have my health and fitness.. what more could I want.. ! ? oh.. apart from more sleep ins.. occasionally :-)

Its 14 Weeks out and the Journey continues.. what wil this week have in store for me!!!!

2010-01-10T09:28:00.003+11:00

It's a nice feeling right, when you wake up each day raring to go... actually wanting to get up early and get the day started.... well I thought I wouldn't get back into the swing of things after having holidays, xmas, new years,drinking, eating etc etc... it can be very hard to get into the motivated and disciplined state needed to get results.

HOWEVER, I am there and fired up in a big way. Nothing beats waking up feeling unreal on a Sunday - no hangover, feeling good after not pigging out the night before, and generally feeling very healthy inside!!!

Tomorrow marks an important day in my journey, its 14 weeks out from comp time and I am also back at work. What does this mean, well its time to see how mentally tough I am, how strong I am, and how well I will deal with situations this year. Last year, mentally, I wasn't in the right frame of mind to REALLY succeed.. and it is amazing how one year can really turn your thoughts, feelings and mentality around!! Sometimes its better to admit that the "time just wasn't right" for something... and move on from the criticism that you fear you may receive and just move on... that's what I did and I am so so so much better for it !!!

Tomorrow, I already know I will face some challenges,however, the outcome will determine how I actually react to these... and I really, REALLY want to test myself for the next 3 months and listen to my "inner" self and what I really want.. how does my body feel, and react to certain situations.... for example.. you know when you are in a situation where you feel really uncomfortable... however you just do whatever it is that you feel uncomfortable about because its what the other person wants... or they are making you feel bad about something.. but still deep inside, you want to cry or you are fuming, and upset and basically you walk out of the situation so upset and then comes the resentment and every other negative emotion... Well my aim is to totally avoid this, and forever... SPEAK UP about what I want.. I am pretty tired of doing things just cause someone is making me feel bad about the situation or cracking the shits... no longer will I be the victim of this sort of behavior however will just be the grown up and speak up... because after all, life is too short to be wasting our time on things that don't make us happy and satisfy us!!!

So here's to 14 weeks out and the next week of excitement, ups, downs and everything in between will happen !

Enjoy the rest of your weekend !

Pupppppyyy !

2010-01-09T12:08:00.004+11:00

So I am pretty excited to say the least.

I am far from a dog person, never have been, always been a cat person. However, yesterday Kade and I went to look at some Weimeranar puppy dogs, and what can I say, I fell in love with them as much as Kade did!! We have decided to get one of the pups, along side my little Ragdoll kitten which I will be picking up late February. As t hey will both be still very young, we have every confidence they will grow up together loving one another lots and lots.. we hope :-) Both the Ragdoll Breeder and the Weimeranar breeder have both agreed and said they will be absolutely fine together. So, we pick up our new pride and joy later this week !

You have to agree, he is VERY, very CUTE!!!!

Secondly, I am very pumped that I will have a doggie to go power walking with on weekends, and a dog to take to the beach and enjoy fun times with.. I guess as they say a pet can really enhance your life and make you a happier person!!! Always nice to come home to a beautiful gorgeous fluff ball !!

Anyway - I am off as i have lots to prepare and enjoy the rest of the time with Kades brother down in Melbourne! Always nice when someone visits as you actually go out of your way to do stuff you normally wouldn't rather than just watching TV etc.

Have a great weekend!!

Stop thinking so much!

2010-01-07T13:47:00.002+11:00

What I have realised over time, for me, if I think about something too much.. it ends tragically... well not ALL the time, but when working toward something that means so much too me, it can potentially be dangerous to over think and over analyze the whole situation... when you look into what you are doing.. too much.. you end up letting it consume your whole life.. which is not my aim .. at all ! to a certain degree, yes you need to however when it becomes stressful, and no longer fun.. I think you are doing it for the wrong reason.. the entire journey should be painful, should be hard.. but you should always be able to go as hard and painful as this may be I am still enjoying the journey and having fun.. because ultimately.. this is what I want to be doing and this is one of my goals..

So, my point of difference and after a year of learning a heap about the way I deal with things, this year, I am doing things totally different.. there is no need ot stress myself out or think about what I am doing too much.. rather just get on with business and do what I have to do to the the results... its amazing when you change your thought pattern and the way you deal with situations how fun and enjoyable something can be !!!

My aim this year is to not constantly talk about how or what I am doing, but just get on with it and consume my life with other interests so I am not always focusing on my next meal, or how little energy I have etc.. with a new house this does make it very easy for me to keep occupied..with the many weddings, engagements and events I have in the next 3 months, with my wonderful family and friends it makes it easy to keep busy and with so much too do April will be here within no time.!!

So yes.. I AM SOO EXCITED about the next 3 months, not just my little journey to April, however all the many facets of my life that I have to look forward to.

2010 is going to be a rocking year.. and I simply cannot wait for each day to throw myself into as many opportunities as possible!!!

I am sure many, many many of you are going through massive life changes too, exciting ones, maybe sad, maybe frustrating, however whatever they are, turn them into opportunities and make the most of every day !

Here's to enjoying the second last day of my holidays - and I have to say it will be good getting back into the swing of things next week as I dont know if its just me.. but holidays tend to make you a tad lazy at the best of times... but no room for laziness over here !

xoxo

The New year is here.. its time to kick some serious arse!

2010-01-05T09:35:00.002+11:00

So 2010 has come and everyone is hyped up with new year resolutions and goals for the year. I know I have my goals set and this year.. they will be completed.

So first and foremost - my number 1 goal that I will be working on daily this year is to compete at the Melbourne Physique Titles in April. I am working toward Sports Model and yes I am prepared for the ups and downs of the whole journey. A lot of people would say its "just Sports Model"... its not figure blah blah blah, however, it still comes with the difficulties of correct nutrition, pushing through the times when I have no energy, the setbacks from people around me who will always have something to say about the fact as to why I am not drinking, or why I am not eating that piece of cake .. its all of the above rolled into one that I will need to learn to deal with.

I am going to focus my blog not so much as what I am eating each day to reach my goal or what training I am doing day in and day out, cause quite frankly that will bore the hell outta me, you and anyone who is willing to listen.... My blog will be focused more on the journey itself and my feelings and thoughts and things I am having to deal with.

Its funny how society reacts when you say that you are giving up alcohol for a while, or you will be on a fairly strict diet or that you are not going to such and such event as you have to train etc... why is it that some people find it so hard to deal with... why do they make you feel so bad about doing something good, just to cover up for their "bads" or "insecurities".. yeah I guess it might make themselves feel better, however they certainly do no justice for the person on the receiving end.

This year, I have decided I ain't putting up with shit... because I have learnt that there will always be people that want to sabotage your good efforts just to cover up their "feeling like shit about themselves" or as I said earlier "insecurities".. the people who show support are the ones that matter and are the sort of people I am choosing to surround myself with this year.. and those who still have an issue with it.. well I guess its their problem and they will have to deal with it in their own time, and maybe they should waste their energy and focus on something that matters.. cause I really don't see how what I am choosing to do so affect anyone else.

This year I have a heap of weddings, engagements, parties etc which I am attending and all whilst I am preparing for my comps.... to some they may see this as a "oh my gosh, what am i going to do, i will be surrounded by alcohol, desserts and everything else"... its the way you choose to see the situation.. I don't know about you however, I can have just a good of a time without grog, and this year, just because I don't eat the cake it doesn't make my presence any different to the person who decides to eat the cake! Just because I may bring my own little packed dinner or lunch to an event, it shouldn't mean someone needs to get all uppity about it... after all.. is it really affecting them in any way, shape or form.. I should think not.

At the end of the day, I think people should really start worrying less about what others are doing and be a little more conscious of what they are doing.. I know that's what I will be doing... seems today its all about keeping up with the Jone's... thus bringing on way to much unwanted stress in our lives.

So, here's to 2010 being about worrying less about what the person next to us is doing and why, but rather supporting, being positive and surrounding ourselves with things that make us happy, the people that make us smile and the people that care enough to understand why we are doing what we are doing in our situation!

I wish everyone the best of luck in their goals and I hope i can share many happy memories with everyone in 2010 and make it the best yet !

It's back to blogging

2009-11-14T20:28:00.002+11:00

It's been some time since I have written my blog. I will put it down to simply just being crazy busy with a million things happening at the moment.

So much is going on and a lot to report on but making this short and sweet.

My goal is to write my blog at least 3 times a week. With the end of year coming to an end there are so many things on the agenda. I am really ramping up my training and getting my nutrition on track which is GREAT! I plan to go into 2010 with the task of my 12 week countdown to comp, an easy one to switch to and something I won't dread so to speak. I want my lead up to INBA to be a great, exciting and fun time, not something that is a drag or exhausting! I am pretty damn pumped about the whole experience to come.

Even better news, we are about 3 weeks out from moving into our gorgeous brand new home.. ! SO damn excited to finally have a walk in robe, huge kitchen and of course my own home gym! Its a great feeling to finally own my own home rather than be in the rent race which I had been in for so long.

On the downside, my Grandma has been extremely unwell and I pray for her night and day that she gets better. Unfortunately my Nan has a very large tumour which started growing in her nose and has spread to her brain very quickly. It is terrible news and our hearts are with her at this very hard and painful time. We pray that she can overcome this terrible, terrible time. xx

Anyhow, just a quick blog tonight, I am excited to be back and ready to get into the remainder of the year x

It's time to say Goood bye... well for 10 days anyway !

2009-10-15T14:16:00.000+11:00

It’s been quite some time since I last blogged as I have been taking a bit more time out for myself to do “Away from the Computer” sorta things. Its been working well to get away from it all for a bit, however I do miss my blogging, as it is just one of those many things that I get enjoyment out of doing.

I am very excited to say that I jet off to Queensland shortly to firstly go up and watch the Olympia at Southport and secondly to take a VERY much needed break away from it all.. out of the routine for a week or so to recoupe, revitalize and reassess where things are at.

Nothing beats getting away when you reach a point where you just feel tired, run down and the need to take a break from it all.. which is how I am feeling right now.. When the motivation slips, and the energy levels are down, nothing does me better than to get away and just get some down time up my sleeve so I can take on the next 6 months. What a perfect time to when Melbourne’s weather has little to be excited about.. Bring on the sunshine any day I say! Vitamin D is required big time!
So, here is my final blog for the next 10 days as I say Ciao, Hooroo, Au revoir, Arrivederci…. Good bye, Good Bye, Good Bye..

ITS TIME FOR SOME SERIOUS FUNNNNN !!!!

Checking in...

2009-10-01T10:33:00.000+10:00

It seems time has gone so quickly since I lost made a post so I thought it’s time to get back on track.

I have to admit I have been slack on the blog front over the last week, however I have just been a little tied up with work and basically taking a break from the world of blogging.

I am happy to say that I am on a good new quick start nutrition program which is going great, it’s really not much different to what I used to eat daily, however my portion sizes have dramatically decreased, thus my body is taking its time to get used to eating less. From this I have had a lot less energy and have been feeling a little run down of late. It’s amazing how different our bodies can feel when changing the way we eat around. I have lost .5kg over the last week so far (not that I am aiming to lose weight as such at the moment) however I am slowing easing my way into fat loss ready for next year to compete. Having so much time on my hands means I can do this progressively without causing a lot of strain on my body and do it without mentally exhausting myself!

My training is going great as well, the training too me is the easy part.. it’s always the nutrition side of things that I need to focus on as some days I eat great and others I lose the drive.. however.. there will soon be no room for mix ups and basically its great that I am finally getting my head around my true feelings, i.e. The way my body feels after eating certain foods, and not wanting to eat crap just because of the yukky way it will make me feel after. I don’t get guilty so much now if I do slip up, as I just move on and make the rest of my meals clean eating ones. So all good so far, no complaints.. apart from the terrible hayfever I have been suffering over the last few weeks.. Arghh it’s a shocker and I do hope to find a cure ASAP.. as the generic tablet brands just don’t seem to cut it.

So much to look forward to over the next few months, I am heading off to QLD in 2 weeks.. YAYYYYY to watch Tim Martin in the Natural Olympia.. Go Tim.. and boy oh boy will he do will if his guest posing routine at the Vics was anything to go by! What an inspiration!

Also have many fun weekends with family and friends coming up, the silly season is on its way and lots of fun to be had!

Hope you all enjoy your Thursday and lets hope it’s a gorgeous sunny weekend this week!

OH PS – don’t forget to turn your clocks forward an hour this weekend as day light savings kicks in.. Even better – more light at night to enjoy nice long walks ! 

So much to look forward to !

2009-09-23T11:47:00.001+10:00

I cannot believe it is Wednesday already – the weeks are flying by at such a rapid rate its almost scary !

But I am wrapped that QLD is coming up in just over 3 weeks now..! Kade and I are off to the sunshine for 10 days to watch and support Tim Martin at the Mr Olympia then taking a week off to enjoy some serious relaxation, rest, fun and catching up with family and friends along the way – So very excited as I absolutely LOVE QLD and I swear I will move up there one day and live there. I love the feel of the place, its relaxing feel, people are not so go, go , go and something about the smell of QLD.. I am not sure that tropical seaside smell. It’s my favorite !

I am also looking forward to the excitement of this weekend – Grand Final weekend. It’s the weekend of the year where we catch up with heaps of Friends on Saturday and have an absolute ball and a BBQ and then we head out on the town Saturday night and Dance the night away.. ! So excited and even bought a new dress for the occasion! Shame the weather won’t hold out ! Oh well, I will be having too much fun to think about the cold.

On Sunday I am checking out the INBA at Camberwell centre where Tim is guest posing which will be unreal! Love watching everyone strut their stuff to see how their form is and gives me that excitement of the fact I will be up on stage next year. I am loving training and opening my eyes up to different ways of doing things and it has given me a whole new perspective on everything. I have been eating great, which in turn makes me feel great, energized and ready to take on each day !

Ohh I love this time of year, so much happening and all fun stuff.. ! Bring on the next 6 months 

The weekend is almost here.. !

2009-09-18T15:59:00.001+10:00

Well I am happy to say that, my calf muscle isn’t getting any worse.. but at the same time, it is still giving me some agony! I am finding the more I move around, the less it cramps up… I actually for the first time in a long time, skipped cardio this morning.. and yes.. I felt shithouse for doing so !!! so after a long morning sitting at my desk feeling like shit because of this.. I know that I wont be doing that again – to be honest, I could hardly move this morning and walking was not happening.. I stumbled out of bed and was almost hopping around getting ready as the force on my right leg really hurt!

Anyhow – I am pleased to say – I went and did a friggen unreal hour session in the gym at lunch time. Today I did a Fit Hour with Sara “Pocket Rocket” and I was almost crying at the end of it.. somehow I am feeling a little fragile today and training seemed all that harder.. but I can assure you, I feel totally unreal now, and what a way to end the week.. it was unreal to say the least.
So I have a plan for the weekend.. and that is a run tomorrow (pending on my calf) if it is better I will run or jog, if not I will be power walking for one hour.. I am one just to pull through and work through the pain at the most of times, unless it was really unbearable.. however I like to go with the motto whatever won’t kill me, won’t hurt.. so run it is..

Sunday will be a one hour power walk… after celebrating Collingwood’s glorious win on Saturday night.. ! I shouldn’t get to far ahead of myself however… GO THE PIES !
My DEXA scan is tomorrow at 1pm.. and I am so excited to see where I am at.. from this I will have specific goals… broken down into every day/week/month etc.. this scan will give me the accurate results to tell me how much fat I need to lose each day/week/month, in order to be in the best shape of my life for comp season next year.. Results to follow…

I hope you all have a fun, safe, active and enjoyable weekend.

Let’s all pray for the people in Melbourne – that this gorgeous sun stays with us over our two day break.!

Injuries SUCK.....

2009-09-17T14:30:00.001+10:00

Yooowchi’ssssss…… buggered to say that I have been struck down with a bit of a calf strain which is causing me somewhat a great deal of pain. How I did this exactly, well, I am still trying to work this out.. all I know that is yesterday when I was going for a walk after work.. I was moving at a fast past and somehow I moved in a funny way, almost bending forward and then moving off at a fast pace again and obviously at this time caused some damage… then I woke up a few times last night in serious pain… followed by almost falling out of bed when I stepped onto my right leg.

A calf strain is a common injury to the lower leg characterised by tearing of some or all of the calf muscle.
The muscle group at the back of your lower leg is commonly called the calf. The calf comprises of 2 major muscles one of which originates from above the knee joint (gastrocnemius) the other of which originates from below the knee joint (soleus). Both of these calf muscles insert into the heel bone via the Achilles tendon. The soleus muscle lies deeper than the gastrocnemius.

During contraction of the calf, tension is placed through the calf muscle. When this tension is excessive due to too much repetition or high force, the calf muscle can be torn. Go figure…

Basically at the moment, I am finding it very hard to walk properly and can feel a sudden sharp pain or more pulling sensation as I walk… I am feeling very stiff, sore and will be giving cardio a miss today due to this..
As I was not aware how sore I was, I went and did legs this morning.. only to find I couldn’t go no where near as hard as normal…

Its funny – I have hardly had any injuries in my time.. and when you get one.. IT’S A PAIN IN THE ARSE .. however… at the same time I am thankful its not too serious and will heal itself if I give it rest..! That’s the hard part – keeping me still for a second.! I don’t really have a choice in this matter as its causing me too much pain to walk around much anyway.

I have been stretching a few times over the day including Calf Lunge Stretches which involves keeping my hands against a wall and my leg to be stretched in front of me. Keeping my heel down I gently move my knee forward over my toes as far as possible and comfortable without pain. Holding for 5 seconds and repeating 10 times at a mild to moderate stretch pain-free.

So, I am praying that I wake up tomorrow with a little less pain – in the meantime.. its my turn to rest up and get better ready for the start of a new week next week…. DEXA scan is on Saturday, along with that means a new nutrition and training plan.. Bring it on…

I plan to fit in 3 more cardio sessions over the weekend if my calve gives me enough movement without pain to do so… so pleaseeeee calf… get better !

Is it just me or is today a bit of a slump of a day ?

2009-09-16T15:50:00.001+10:00

Okay so I am having one of those “slow” days today – must be the mid-week slump.. but its just one of those days where not much is happening really… and on those days, it is easy to get unmotivated to do anything really.. which is when its sooo important to remember why I am eating well and why I must exercise… !

Today is my day off weights so I decided to do 2 cardio sessions today. My first session was a 40 minute power walk to the train station this morning. I love my morning walks in the fresh air as the air is cool and just feels so refreshing first thing in the morning. Wakes me up and gets me off to a great start. I then went for another 40 minute power walk on my lunch break, which is a great way to break up the day, move around and get in some extra fat burning potential into me. The sun was out and with 25 degree weather, why wouldn’t anyone want to get out into the fresh air and move around !

If you are lacking the energy today, or motivation to do anything.. don’t think about it.. just do it.. don’t waste another second sitting there arguing with yourself if you should go out and do something physical today – just do it and think about how good you will feel afterwards.

Same goes on the food front, on those days where I lack energy – I tend to think.. ohhhh if I have some more carbohydrate or sugar I will feel heaps better… ah ahhh… it doesn’t work like that… movement and a BIG glass of water generally kill the need for other body harming sugar infested sweets.. that only make you feel guilty afterwards… and make you write off the entire day as you think.. Stuff it.. I have eaten crap now.. so might as well ruin the rest of my day and eat whatever I want and do nothing !

Hope you are having a good “Hump” Day and lets all look forward to the downward run to the weekend.. Tomorrow morning is Legs day for me.. first up… in the AM so I am prepping myself for what will be a killer program… and make some serious progress in the legs and butt department …..

What works for me... May not work for you......

2009-09-15T14:24:00.000+10:00

Good Afternoon, another gorgeous one I may add.

Spring is totally here… and you gotta love how the air doesn’t have the chill to it anymore.. its actually almost just T-Shirt weather ! SO, that also means showing a little more skin and showing off what you have worked so hard for over the winter months…

I don’t know about you, but I am struggling at the moment to get back into less clothing, I feel somewhat pasty and just not used to wearing just t shirts and the like after being covered up all winter.

It’s exciting though, as you see people now taking the step up with their exercise and eating - on my lunch break today there were so many people out jogging around the tan, going to the gym, and basically using their time wisely to fit a workout in! Smart them. I for once had lunch off today as I did an hour power walk first thing this morning and tonight at 6pm I have a grueling hour interval session at the gym.. always one to look forward to!

With my eating, I have cleaned things up a heap and as I get a lot of people ask what I am eating.. it goes a little like the below.. at this current time.. this will no doubt change shortly (as of next week) as I get my Dexa scans done on the weekend and from this, will determine what my daily diet needs to look like to loose a certain amount of fat that I need to loose before my comp in April next year. I love that I have a lot of time to do this properly so that my body doesn’t go into stupid mode… I can do this slowly and smartly over time to get the best possible results.

5am – Wake and ½ banana before cardio

5.05am – 6.05am – Cardio Session (either Power walk or interval session)

6.30am – Oats (with water) heated in the microwave with a Protein Shake (Low Carb & Fat) – I choose to have the ASN Evolve Protein in Cookies and Cream.

9.30am – Apple and handful of unsalted cashews

12.00noon – Grilled Chicken with Green Beans

3.00pm – Grilled Chicken with Green Beans

5.30pm – 6.30pm – Weight Training (four day split program – Mon/Tues/Thur/Fri)
Post workout Protein Shake

7.30pm – Lean Protein (Fish/Chicken or Turkey etc) with a big salad or steamed veggies.

This diet I am using at the moment isn’t relatively high in Carbs as I am trying to lean out a smidgen as I have put on a couple of kgs over winter.. so it’s time to get to my ideal weight.. and then work from there leading up to my comp in April of 2010. This nutrition plan works for me at the moment whilst I am not in a “countdown” phase.. ie. 12 – 16 weeks out from a comp, and keeps me satisfied and my blood sugar levels on an even Kiel.. what works for one person will not work for the other.. and I do like to experiment with my body to see how it reacts to certain foods, what makes me feel crap, and what gives me energy to get through my days… its good to know your body well enough to know that what you put in it… will give you a such and such reaction.. for me.. as an example.. I cannot have much milk (I don’t have much dairy anyway) as I get extremely bloated and basically feel like crap afterwards.. I like to try and stick to as much protein in my diet as possible.. as we all know that it’s the only way to go to feel satisfied and also for me… not feeling bloated!

Mondayitis .... have no fear... its almost over !

2009-09-14T16:54:00.002+10:00

Nothing beats getting the week off to a good start.. and if that means suffering at the crack of dawn on a Monday morning, namely 5.00am wake up followed by a grueling weights and cardio session, well, I’m all for it… when my alarm woke me up at 5am today – I could have almost cried… arghhhhh nothing worse… especially when my boyfriend had an RDO today and could stay in bed for as long as he wanted.

BUT, I have a goal.. and no matter how tired, shithouse, and everything else I could feel like.. its not going to get in the way of my journey… nor are any other petty excuses that a lot of people make these days.. regarding why they didn’t get up.. well yes we all get tired, and this is a tired nation … however life goes on.. and I have learnt that being tired aint gonna kill me.. and I will feel worse anyway not exercising as I will feel sluggish and all day have the guilt’s on for not just doing what I scheduled in to do.

So, without even thinking about it, I jumped out of bed and threw on my exercise gear, I already had my bags packed and ready to go.. then off I went my handful of almonds out the door. Nothing beats driving at 5 in the morning too as no one is on the road and you have the world to yourself.. No traffic jams, the lights generally are always green… and I get into the city in no time, with no stress… which is even better to start my day off with… unlike my trip home which will be a miserable, long slog home… I don’t know what it is with drivers who just take their sweet arse time and don’t just drive.. arghh, that is one thing that is annoying.. anyway, my option is to stay in the city a little later until around 6.30pm when maybe a bit of the traffic has gone.. or get home at a reasonable time.. (well after a 1.5 hour trip home).. so I can eat dinner with my family… hmmm options, options. I went for a 40 minute power walk at lunch so I think I am gonna grin and bear the traffic today ! it’s nice to have done all my exercise for the day so I can go home and enjoy some family time and also relaxing time.

Tomorrow I plan to do my High Intensity FIT-Hour with ‘Pocket Rocket’ which is something I look forward to every week and I will also enjoy a one hour power walk in the AM.!

I hope you are well and truly back into the working week and doing things today that you planned to do!

Have a good Monday night and that’s one more day down…

All organised and ready for some Downtime ! Yipeee :-)

2009-09-12T16:25:00.001+10:00

Ahhhhh - I have just sat down to enjoy a bit of quite time on this warm Saturday Arvo in Melbourne. Hows this heat wave.. well you could call it that as it is warmer than normal.. Anyhow, i have had a really productive day so far and it began at 7am when I dropped my man into the city as he was watching footy down in Geelong.. which required a train ride.. then i went to my other favorite place, that being Doherty's Gym and did my legs program for the week.. What I love about doing a weights program on the weekend is that the gym is nice and quite so I can lift heavier and grunt more if its hurting.... lolz... even though I do try to keep it down, and to be honest not a noisy sort of person when training, unlike some people I have heard in the gym... no, but seriously, i love working out when the gyms are quite as I can really focus on what I am doing without idiots hanging around having a social affair.. talking on their mobiles etc.. yes you do still get those idiots who go into the gym and stand in the way talking on their phones or spending more time socialising than getting done what they came to the gym to do... waste of itme if you ask me.. anyhow.. after my excellent session, I heated up my delicious grilled chicken with salad for lunch and chowed that down..

Today I headed to the markets to get my fruit, veggies and meat.. and WOW.. I reckon I paid 50% less than what I normally do.. and to be honest - the veggies and meat etc was sooo much more fresh than what I usually get from Woolworths. Today I have included some piccys of my food preparation... and a tip if you don't already do it.. I bought today my chicken breast with the skin on .. and only paid $6.99 a kg... SOOO cheap.. and worth the extra 15 minutes it took me to cut all of the fat off the chicken... This week I have also mixed in some delicious Lentils and Chickpeas for extra Protein power and taste.. YUMMMY - I have fresh lemons and tomato paste (low in sodium) that I mixed up and WHHHHOOLAAA ! 8 tasty lunches and snacks ready to go for next week. I also purchased fresh unsalted almonds and cashews, yummy pink lady apples and rolled oats for breaky!

So after my great shopping expedition, I decided to go for my hour power walk smack bang in the middle of the day.. and it was hot hot hot ! Was a mega sweat session outside in the heat and boy oh boy did I make it a good one.. I was so parched by the time i got home that I almost fainted when I walked in the door.. that perhaps not being such a good thing.

Followed, was the general cleaning and washing and every other chore we all love to do.. only to sit down now and have some laptop time... !

Tonight I am very excited to watch the Pies smash Adelaide... hehe (I shouldn't get to cocky) however gotta be a positive Collingwood supporter... cause YES - we will be in the Grand Final !

Anyway - I am all organised now for the week and can look forward to tomorrow being my total day of relaxation and me time.. I am off to watch my bf's little brother in his grand final in Bendigo, so I look forward to heading up to the country, as I always enjoy doing.

I hope you all have a good, organised and fun weekend, and don't get burnt outside ! :-) xx

Spring is in the air....

2009-09-10T16:52:00.000+10:00

I have just seen the glimpse of sun that has come across Melbourne skies that will now stay with us over the weekend.. I am so excited that it will be our first real feel of a Spring weekend.. sunny blue skies with a bit of 23 – 25 degree weather.. ! Nothing beats this weather to get out and enjoy outdoor exercise.. I love it more than anything.. As an avid Power walker… yes when I get started I could walk and walk and walk for miles… it makes all that difference when the skies are blue, sun is out and you can smell freshly cut grass and spring in the air.. with some good tunes on my ipod and my favorite walking Asics… to be quite honest, I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else in the world.. I believe that the best things in life are free, and I am so lucky to have legs that will take me walking for long periods of time and get the benefits of feeling great.. and being one more step closer to my goal for April 2010.

Another thing I love, is despite waking up at 5am each morning during the week.. my body clock generally doesn’t let me sleep past 7.30am on the weekends.. however… I love the fact that if I am up at this time on a Saturday, I get the crisp clean air of the morning and can watch the day begin.. there is something unreal about a Saturday morning… people are more relaxed.. I get my organized cap on and love to get my stuff ready for the next week and feel on top of things..

I have changed my routine around a bit and now prepare most of my meals for the next week on a Saturday. I like to do this as I now like to see Sunday as the day that I go out and do something fun, the day where it’s all about doing different, catching up with friends and family, and not having to worry about the cleaning, cooking and every other chore we are all having to do. This works well for me too, I always do my cardio first thing in the morning on a Sunday so the rest of the day is free for Me !

So today I did something that I SHOULD NOT be doing, and that is hopping on the scales.. yes the dreaded scales that should be banned.. I get somewhat obsessed with weighing myself.. just because to me it’s a mind thing where if I keep within my “feel good” weight range then I know I am doing the right thing. If I am over that mark by 2 – 3kgs, it’s a sign I need to step back a bit and focus on my nutrition and clean things up.. I can assure you it has nothing to do with the exercise I do as I do between 1 – 2 hours every day.. it all comes down to my diet and what I put in my mouth… SO, this morning my weight was 1.1kg down from this time last week.. which is expected… as I have been eating clean to the T all week… and seeing results on scales.. mentally keeps me on the right path…

The true measures though, I generally look at the way my clothes are fitting on my.. if my favorite pair of jeans start to get a little tight.. and I feel uncomfortable in them (you know that feeling where you are having a “fat” day)… that’s when I get things back in check !

So… the scales should be thrown out the window and I surely wont be doing all this weighing when I begin my DEXA scans starting next Saturday. The DEXA scans will be done each 3 weeks leading up to my comp in April 2010 and this will be the true indicator on how I am going and if I need to make changes to my diet and exercise.. I cannot wait to watch the changes and the transformation I will be making! I will talk about these more once I begin the process next weekend.

Anyhow.. its time to get ready to enjoy the wind down for the week… Tomorrow I will be finishing my week off with a 1 hour power walk in the morning and then I will do a ripper legs program after work to see my weekend in a good way ! Bring it on…. !  Enjoy your night and get some Vitamin D tomorrow !

Countdown - 220 Days to go - and on track. ,,,,,,

2009-09-09T15:47:00.000+10:00

I seriously can say now, there is nothing better than the way you feel when your eating is right on track. It is the absolute difference that it is going to make as to whether you feel shit or good.

I am like most people… correct me if I am wrong.. where at around 3 – 4pm in the afternoon, I get the snack fever… where something sweet would be really good.. or are you an after dinner person, who loves to finish off their night with sweets.. arghh.. it’s a killer.. but there gets a time when you have to say stop… I know that my time is now, and has been for the last few weeks, because I now have a serious goal that I am working toward in April 2010.. and every morsel of food I put into my mouth counts.. I know what my body is like.. and I know that I am very capable of putting on weight easily if I let slip.. just that little too often.. and yes I think sometimes we forget that we gave ourselves a treat yesterday, or the day before, or the day before.. and that today I might just treat myself… because I have been good.. who am I kidding.. or cheating should I say. My mindset has changed from this train of thought now.. and is in serious mode.. it’s the serious mode that knows that if I don’t get massively good habits in place now.. its gonna make it a hell of a ride later this year and early next year when I am down to my 12 weeks pre-comp prep. This is the perfect opportunity to get my shit together.. and it’s exactly what I have been doing.. as I sit here eating my grilled chicken with green beans and spinach with lemon juice.. Yummo.. and I mean that – once your body adjusts to eating clean.. it actually loves the taste of these foods.. no longer does your body crave sweet and fatty treats, that will only make you feel crap after you eat them.

I know only too well about the guilts with eating… I know that before I eat something sweet.. at the time, its like.. who cares.. I am craving this I want to taste the delectable yummy whatever it is.. and then as soon as I have eaten it.. boom boom.. the guilt trip piles onto my shoulders, coming down on me at a million miles per hour.. I sit and wonder for the next halfa why did I do that.. hmm stuff it, I might as well have more of that chocolate now that I screwed my day of good eating… STOP.. right there.. there is the problem.. a big problem – I am thrilled I am on top of this now.. I am thrilled that a point came where I knew this was not at all in line with my ultimate goal… it’s a good feeling to be in control.

If anyone can relate to me.. then you know what I am talking about.. no one is perfect – far from it actually – however we are in total control of everything we do, every decision we make, and everything we choose to put in our mouth.. so next time you are about to eat that sweet biscuit, cake or stuff your face with crap… just give yourself another minute to consider if it will really make you happy in 15 minutes time.. I do this little task every time I go to eat crap now.. and it totally works… because I know.. that I certainly will never feel better for eating something that will see me further from my goal if I do so.!

Happy Hump Day !

And hope you all have a fun night. !

Making the Firm Committment

2009-09-08T15:45:00.001+10:00

How good is a break away from everything… a chance to re-assess, re-vitalize, re-invigorate, and have time out from “Reality”. It certainly does the world of good, and after 5 days of this I am back and ready to take on the next 6 months. This time out also gave me a chance to organize myself to the max, and work out what, where, when, why, how.

So to begin with.. I have set a date – I am on my way, and ready – in the best head space for this – the best head space that I have ever been in, and amp’ed about my decision to give this a go, a real go, a serious go… and to make the most out of the next 6 months. It’s time to get serious, and I love that I now have a plan to go forward.

My Commitment for 2010 – I will compete on stage in the Sports Model Division of the INBA in April 2010. I am ready, willing and am in the right head space to take this challenge on.

I have also learnt some home truths that I will take into account.. all day every day whenever I find myself out of the “space”, these are:

1. I will not always have the positive mindset that I have right now. There will be set backs, and there will be times where I find myself asking “is this worth it”.

I now understand that yes, being positive ALL of the time is not gonna happen.. I can though, train my thoughts to be as positive as possible in each and every given situation. I can walk away from any negative thoughts, AND, understand that this is very important when preparing for a show.

2. I can prepare for a show and not starve my way there.

I have always thought that to get in the best shape to present myself on stage, that you have to always go hungry, and have to deal with shitty hunger pangs, no energy, bad moods.. the list goes on.. well people would argue with me about this one.. however I am relating to my own experience from the past and in my blogs.. I only write about what I have experienced… so.. in saying that.. with the right nutrition program, and with the right amount of time.. which I am giving myself this time round.. it is very possible to get the best physique.. without the crap that comes with it.. I plan to make this a journey to remember.. not a journey that I loathed or would never want to do again.. I see this as the beginning of what is going to be an unreal journey..

3. I will not let any negativity or comments get in the way of my success.

Sometimes, almost always, people will have an opinion on why, what, how, I should be doing this that or the other.. this conflicting and negative advice/comments can in a lot of cases make the toughs “head strong” person to dive into a hole of “I can’t do this, I am not good enough”… I will not listen to negativity or advice that is against my values.. there will be people out there who will judge, assess and want to always make you feel shithouse about what you may be doing, or simply make your life a little harder just because… I choose to turn my back on these people to ensure I am successful. There will be days where I will find it harder than others.. but my new head space is ready to take these on… its time to consistently be around people who uplift.. people who are successful in the field that I wish to be successful in.. and to be a massive big sponge.. and just listen, learn and do…

Finally, I am also excited about the next course which I am going to complete which is: Nutrition for Fat Loss Course. Not only does this course give a whopping big 15 CEC’s, however it will also educate me further on Nutrition for Fat loss and really delve into the specifics. I cannot wait, I love to learn and always up for doing new courses to accelerate my learning.!

Well enough from my end.. My commitment is now in writing. There is no turning back, and I refuse to let anything get in the way of my commitment.. ! I look forward to posting my journey along the way and also sharing the ups and downs, happy times and sad times and everything in between !

I hope you all have a great day !

It's been a good one...

2009-08-28T12:08:00.001+10:00

What can I report for the week so far.

1. This week has been really, really good. I am very happy with my results this week and I can say that right at this point in time I feel on top of the world.

2. I have completed 5 days of weight training – going hard at each session. My four day split program has been carried out on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, and Tuesday night was an extra FIT Hour with Sara ‘Pocket Rocket’. This class is really giving me the edge now, and I have only done three sessions so far, but I can tell you now.. with such a mix up to my training, and doing new resistance exercises I don’t normally do.. my body is in shock.. but loving it !

3. My eating has been good for the week – and because of this, I don’t feel bloated, my jeans today are fitting nicely (i.e. About 3 weeks ago.. I was not happy with the way my favorite pair of jeans fit – and yes these jeans are my way of knowing if it’s time to lift my game). If they have a bit of give in them.. I know that what I have been doing during the week has been to the plan.

4. I have continued to make the right food choices, and stay organized and prepared with my meals. I have drunk 3L of water each day and also taken my supplements.

5. I have diarised my training plan for next week and look forward to really giving it my hardest for more weekly gains.

6. I have continued to network with fitness professionals who really know there stuff. Right now, I am being a sponge and learning everything I can in order to be as prepared as possible to get on stage next year in April in the sports model division.

7. I have discussed with Sara about posing classes.. this is something that I will soon get involved in as the more practice I can get in presenting on stage.. the better the outcome will be on the day.. some may say it’s a little to early to start.. but this time round I am going in so prepared that it will feel like I have done this 100 times over. The posing classes are on Saturdays at Doherty’s Gym – and I look forward to getting more detail on these. Presentation on stage is the key !

8. I am pumped about the weekend ahead and have two hour cardio sessions scheduled for the weekend. One on Saturday morning, the other on Sunday.

9. I will keep the smile on my dial, and enjoy my time off.

So I am pleased with my week so far and feel it has been really productive, and I have made some gains.

Okay, its time to fly… so Bring on the weekend.. and bring on next week as its going to be SO GOOD! Why can I say that now.. because the week will be what I make of it.!

Have a great weekend.. be safe, train hard and enjoy !

Freakin feeling good !

2009-08-26T16:40:00.000+10:00

What a week it has been so far – and we are almost at the downhill run!
I cannot believe how quickly the hours, days, weeks go these days.. it is very scary!

I can say that my week so far has been good ! I did have a bit of a stomach bug earlier on this week which was a bit annoying however by Tuesday (after a lot of rest and sleep) I was back on top of things !

I have had 3 good days so far of training this week and am absolutely loving my Tuesday night class which runs for an hour and is a High Intensity Fat Burning Interval training session with Sara “Pocket Rocket”. I swear, by the end of this session I am always totally rooted to the max.. it is so good to be pushed to your maximum capacity by someone.. and yes we all occasionally need someone to yell at us saying “keep going, just one more.. don’t give up now”. This sort of training is, I believe, is something everyone needs to incorporate into their weekly schedule.. the sort of training session that is different to your usual routine.. the sort of session that is going to totally exhaust you and scare those fat burning cells and muscles into changing.. The sort of training that you can walk out of and feel absolutely on top of the world.. and get the “trainers high” – yes I know.. Its normally the “runners high”…! I totally recommend it if you are serious about getting to your ultimate physique goals.. Because I know where I want to be next year and that is on a stage showing the judges all the hard work I have put in over the last 205 days.. (this is the countdown to INBA 2010 – Melbourne Physique Titles).

The other things I have been keeping a big eye on is obviously the most important.. my nutrition. I have been really good with the eating side of things this week and by goodness it makes the world of difference. I am also ensuring I get a minimum of 2 litres of water into me everyday which I find easy especially as I go through almost 1.5 litres in my morning AM training session.

For the remainder of the week my plan is as follows:

Thursday – Shoulders Program in the AM and a cardio Afterburn session (24 minutes of interval training on the treadmill). I will also incorporate a 30 minute power walk on my lunch break.

Friday – Legs in the AM and if my legs are still holding up I will do a 10 minute high intensity stair climbing session. I will then fit in another 30 minute power walk on my lunch break.

Saturday – I will be doing my run (which has a HUGEEE amount of Hills) which takes me 1 hour.. this run is a killer.. and if you live in the diamond creek/Greensborough/st Helena area) you will know what I am talking about when I say hills…. By the end of this I am so exhausted however I can assure you I do not stop until I reach the end of the course, because this run shows me how far I have come fitness wise.. as someone who isn’t a “Runner” (I totally love to power walk).. I struggled at first when I got into running.. however over the last few years am proud to say I can go long distances without too much drama.

Sunday – Today will be a good 1 hour power walk to finish the week off. I will be up in the country – so cannot wait to get the fresh country air into me.. PLUS the added benefit of once again walking a different and new route!

So that’s me in a nutshell. I hope you all have a plan for the remainder of your week… and that you stick to it… Cause I am sticking to mine.. regardless of what gets in the way.

Oh and the other thing.. how many of you made the stupid excuse of not exercising yesterday afternoon (if you had a session planned) – cause of the weather… I thought it was pretty funny how many people said awww.. yeah I was going to go to training blah blah but you know the weather and all (if you live in Melbourne)… seriously.. what has the weather got to do with being able to train.. there are so many options other than having to train outside.. … yes I almost got blown onto Flinders Street and my umbrella totally broke when it got pulled up in a massive burst of wind.. but NOTHING was going to stop me getting to my FIT Hour.. Because this time… I’m Ready !!!!!

Preparation is the Key !

2009-08-22T16:13:00.003+10:00

Okay - HOW GOOD IS THIS WEATHER ! The sun is out.. the skies are blue.. (the wind is shit)... but I can feel spring coming on.. I can smell the freshly cut grass ... (which mind you i cannot go near as I am allergic to the stuff... amongst being allergic to dogs, cats and anything with fur)...HOWEVER ... point being... what a day it was to be outside.. making the most of this weather.. being in the great outdoors to exercise and get fit.

I spent an hour and 25 minutes power walking today, purely because I didn't want to go back indoors.. however life goes on and there are things to do. I am very happy to say I am super organised this week, having prepared my meals for next week first thing this morning. Today I took photos of the meals I plan to have (well some of them).. Lunches this week will be cooked chicken (which I cooked in Lemon, Herbs and spices) and green beans.. I will also add a big green salad to this. My morning tea is Sweet Potato (200g) and a protein portion of grilled chicken. This week I have done my chicken in a tomato paste (with low salt) to add for flavour. At the moment i am getting myself back into the habit of eating whole foods rather than substituting with protein shakes etc, its time to get back in shape the way I was earlier this year... The last few months have been a little up and down with eating and its seriously time to get back into shape.. because according to my diary.. it is 203 days until the Melbourne Physique Titles in April next year.. and it is the Sports Model Division that is calling me.. and that means its time to get back to basic clean eating.. watching everything I put into my mouth and asking myself.. will this help achieve my goal...In the picture above, I was at 58kg... and body fat of 16%...for comparison sake (I am 170cm tall) this was in April this year.. I plan to better this and by breaking this into day by day, hour by hour, step by step goals.. I will not fail... when you think too far ahead it can seem so daunting but if you just take things one step at a time, I just about reckon you will find it all that much more manageable!

Oh yeah and by the way - you HAVE to try the Red Lady Apples in season at the moment.. I have one for my afternoon tea each day and they are unbelievably juicy, tasty and crispy right now ! get into them for a delectable treat !

Enjoy your Saturday night! And the rest of your weekend !

Be Goal with you .......

2009-08-20T14:14:00.002+10:00

When one does not have a goal/s, one cannot stay focused or really stick to anything. Sometimes we make goals and they go awol… this can be put down to the fact that the goal in the first place isn’t something we REALLY want or we are not doing it for the right reasons, maybe just not ready for it.. not tough enough.. the skin on our back hasn’t quite grown thick enough to deal with whatever comes with it.

I wish I had have kept a log book on all the goals I have set and not achieved… ! Because being human.. this happens.. and what happens after that.. we go into that spiral of falling out of control… kicking and screaming because we didn’t make it etc.. basically it sucks when that happens.

In most cases, I think the reason goals are not always fulfilled is because we don’t want it that bad.. or we are not really, really deep down ready to achieve it.. no matter WHAT the circumstances are. No matter what gets in the way, no matter WHAT !
So how do we get out of the spiral of underachieved goals.. well I will tell you when I have the answer to that .. I am still searching.. I do know however that sometimes things are more ready than ever to happen.. and I am more ready than ever before… for once it’s not about excuses… its about doing what needs to be done.. regardless of what is happening around me.

I’m excited, I’m pumped and I have the help required to fulfill MY goals.. when you are ready, assistance will come your way, the things needed will suddenly start appearing in your life..because you are making your goal happen… this is when it gets exciting ..... It's time to climb the ladder.. and climb it until I reach the VERY top... its time to make this happen !!!!!!!!

Fail to Prepare... Prepare to Fail...

2009-08-18T10:50:00.001+10:00

Another week is here and it is already Tuesday ! I am absolutely loving the sunshine, and even better – what a fantastic way to get out and enjoy a morning bout of exercise. For me, I love to do my cardio in the AM, and this morning I did some serious interval cardio training which included running, power walking with weights, and basically swapping intensities for 50 minutes straight. Followed by a delicious breakfast of Rolled Oats with protein! Yummy – my favorite time of the day !

Secondly, I am very pumped once again to be getting back in for my second HIT – Training session with the Pocket Rocket – last week I got absolutely smashed and was feeling sore in places I never knew existed for the remainder of the week – this is the best way to be… shocking the body into different exercises for serious progress ! With a weigh in due tonight it will be interesting to see how I have faired for the week. I am not expecting any serious change as I am not on any particular diet, however am putting a lot of focus into eating the most nutritious food my body can have to maintain my health and track my goals moving forward.

The weekend saw me do two extra sessions including an interval legs session on Saturday and also a Chest session on Sunday with Kade who trained me well and hard! The remainder of my week will include Shoulders, Back and also my daily cardio sessions – I also add in 3 extra Afterburn interval training sessions per week now to turn things up a notch..

It won’t be long before we are all back in bikinis, short skirts and bearing more skin than we like.. so yes, it’s time to get serious, stop mucking around and do what I can now so I have results to show by summer! This goes without saying the results I will need to get up on the INBA stage in 2010 when my head is ready to tackle a year of comps! Will I be ready – Yes, am I training and eating now to prepare.. yes.. with plenty of time to get the ground basics… by the time comes I will be so ready that it will seem like I have done it 100 times over ! Bring it on.. Im ready.. !

Becoming a Sponge....

2009-08-12T16:33:00.001+10:00

It’s good to be back on fire after a lull !

Right now I am very excited as I have had some reinvigoration and a pep talk regarding a few future goals etc that I am excited about! Nothing beats refocusing and really assessing what it is that you want in life.

So I had the best HIT Fit session last night at Doherty’s Gym with Sara ‘Pocket Rocket’, and boy did I get my arse whipped. It was unreal to say the least and I Have sweated that much in ages.. I have signed up to do this kick arse one hour session every Tuesday evening now to really up the ante with my training and add in a heap of moves that I don’t do in my normal four day split program. I have really started to mix things up and can already tell how much your results differ when you do different rather than the same shit day in and day out… **Yawn Bore** welcome to the world of no results !

Well it’s all about doing different to get better, outstanding results! The body adapts so quickly to what you are doing and if you are looking for serious change, sometimes you need an ole kick in the arse.. like I am getting, to start seeing the results you have been looking for, for a long time. Everyday now I am doing different cardio.. so my body wont know what is coming each and every day. My weight training four day split will be taken the the next level and my extra HIT Fit class with “Pocket Rocket” on Tuesday will seriously add unreal results to the mix.
The diet is getting an overhaul.. and no longer will I make stupid decisions to “Just have that last piece” or the “All or nothing” attitude. Cause yes – that attitude sux and I am quite frankly sick of giving up to it.. It is so easy these days to just “have a little bit” or say “this won’t hurt”.. cause I can assure you .. from my experience it does hurt and it will catch up to you ! I am here to give myself a flogging as its time I got back to the basics again and turned things up a notch or 10. Quite Frankly I am sick of over indulging and feeling crap about it the next day…. Who wants to feel like that – not me.. I am so tired of it and it will no longer be a slap on the wrist rather a kick up the arse and a massive reality check!

Anyhooooo – I feel like I have cracking bones, broken muscles and everything in between as Monday and Tuesday sessions have been VERY hard. I didn’t let poor excuses get in the way of hitting the gym again today to do shoulders. I also included a 20 minute high intensity afterburn treadmill session and did a 40 minute power walk this morning to fire up the metabolism for the day. As of last night.. every Tuesday I get measured and a weigh in so my results matter.. cause without recording them, there is no room to see where improvement is needed. Right now for me its all about making significant improvements in the way things are done so I can be productive, get results and reach my goals.

Nothing beats talking to others who have reached similar goals to the ones you are trying to achieve as it gives you the motivation to see that it can be done ! So, I listen, I learn, I become a sponge.. and the results will speak for themselves!

Its time to get pumped !

2009-08-10T16:21:00.000+10:00

It feels like I haven’t written a blog for ages… its been a very interesting week to say the least and lots and lots has been happening. Apart from being flat out at work which I love as nothing beats being busy, I have been enjoying a bit of a black eye and looking a little on the ugly side at the moment.. gotta love that punched in the face look – and no I definitely was not punched in the face.. ! It’s really quite embarrassing however, pretty funny at the same time! So, apart from that I had the best night Saturday night. My girl Candi and her fiancé Aaron held their engagement party and boy did I have an unreal night carving it up on the dance floor.. no better way to kill calories I say. I am very lucky to have been asked as Candi’s bridesmaid and without question am honoured to be part of their wedding party next March 2010.

I also had some good outdoor cardio sessions over the weekend – I love the weekends when I have time to get out into the fresh air and enjoy pounding the pavement rather than pounding a treadmill…. Cause yes the workout you get from being outside kicks arse compared to anything you will do on the boring ole treadmill!
I also did 4 sensational weights training sessions last week and felt my week in the gym was well spent.

This week for my diet – I prepared all of my lunch and snack meals on Saturday.
Basically my daily diet is looking like the below for the week. Taking into account that I am not training to compete in the near future – rather getting on top of bad eating habits, and slowly cutting out the shitty things so I can incorporate only the best into my lifestyle, my carbs are high and basically I am feeding my body for energy to get through workouts etc at this point in time.. when it’s time to cut fat, more changes will need to be made. Basic diet daily is looking like the below:

Still trying to work out a better brekky where I will enjoy as much as I do with the below.. I really want to cut out the shake and incorporate a whole food protein source here as I don’t want to rely on liquids! Without clean whole food proteins my body will not burn the desired amount of fat I wish to get the best physique possible.

Breakfast – ¾ cup oats with water (microwaved) with a protein shake (Evolve Cookies n Cream) with water

Morning Tea – 120g grilled chicken with 100g sweet potato

Lunch – 100g grilled chicken with ½ basmati rice and steamed greens (Beans, broccoli, cauliflower)

Snack – Piece of Fruit and Shake

Dinner – Grilled Chicken and/or turkey/fish with green salad and/or steamed veggies

I am also totally pumped to do an extra training session this week with Team PRP with Sara and Perry. These sessions are held at Doherty’s and are called F-HIT – so it’s a high intensity session which includes cardio/weights/bodybuilding functions etc.. so, so excited to get my arse slaughtered.. ! Bring it on I say – I will report back on this the following day when I hope to be in a lot of pain ! Yipeee
It’s time to do new things.. and my aim is to try new things.. more so, a lot more so than I have been doing.. I’m pumped, I’m excited and what a week its going to be!

Nothing gets me more excited than scheduling in my training sessions and having something to look forward to .

Its all down hill from today... ! Welcome in Thursday!

2009-08-05T16:20:00.001+10:00

Helllllooo to the Sunshine in Melbourne ! Oh how I love it when the sun shine through my window onto my back at work ! It gives me that great feeling of summer.. and how we are less than a month away from saying good bye to winter.. yipppeee ! As much as I embrace the cold weather as a time to get hot and sweaty in the gym and work really hard for the summer months.. nothing beats hot summer nights.. the smell of fresh flowers and freshly cut grass.. the smell of Sunday afternoon BBQ’s with friends and family and being able to wear a little less clothes.. because we all love the fact that we don’t have to carry a jacket out on the town or to work as extra luggage!

I also love later night walks in summer.. the balmy nights, the daylight savings, and feeling of long days !

I get so, so, so exciting thinking about it! So bring it on !

Today has been a great day – loving my mixed up weight sessions at the moment, and the legs program I did yesterday certainly struck a few cords in my body because my legs are arse are aching… I say bring it on to that.. Aching arse means tighter arse… eventually !  Cheers to that my friends!

Today I enjoyed a 40 minute power walk first thing this morning, this afternoon I completed a shoulders program and also my 2nd Afterburn Interval training session for the week – this of course being a 19 minute treadmill session – 5 minutes warm up then 1 minute sprint as hard as possible then 2 minutes of mild pace at around 6.8.. then doing this 4 times over with a 5 minute warm down. So, having done my two cardio sessions today and my weights session – my training goals for the day are complete. My nutrition today has been fairly consistent, and don’t feel one bit bloated or crap… it’s the eating side of things that I am really focusing on, as my training.. well I have that down pat and always have motivation to get my sessions done regardless of how I am feeling or what circumstance is going on around me.. !! I am only letting myself down if I miss a training session and same goes with food.. when I put crap into my body I am only letting myself down.. all good lessons that I am enjoying improvement on a daily basis! I listen to my body a lot more now these days and boy oh boy does it help with my progress !

I hope you have trained hard today – if not.. I hope your training session tonight is a good one.. ! x

Learning the Hard way :-)

2009-08-04T15:12:00.001+10:00

Boy oh boy, I am a tired chickie babe today ! I haven’t let this however get in the way of my goals for the day ! Firstly, this morning at 5am I did a great 1 hour power walk on the treadmill on an interval of 4 (not huge) however for 1 hour you certainly feel it at the end of the session.

Today’s weights session was UNREAL, to say the least. What was meant to be a Back and Triceps program, turned into a mega fat burning Legs program mixed in with full body super sets. We were all but jelly legs at the end of the hour and feeling it now! Today we mixed in body weight exercises such as pushups, sit ups, burpees, bum lifts, star jumps and super spread squats! With this we did B/Bell squats, Deadlifts, lunges and leg curls. Don’t forget the leg press at 45 degrees! Sweating up a treat was the name of the game and very happy we did this session today. Admittingly I was lacking enthusiasm at the start of my session, however, as usual once I got going, I felt so good and wished I could stay for a lot longer! This evening is my night off cardio and once again tomorrow night will be another AfterBurn Interval training session. I will also incorporate a 40 minute uphill power walk outside tomorrow morning and a shoulders program will take place at lunch!

Today my diet has been good, and I am slowly loving the fact that I don’t get cravings the way I used to! It’s all about teaching my body, at a slow and steady pace so I can get the mind in the right place to hopefully go on stage next year in the sports model division. There is no use in doing this however until I have the basics covered, and also to ensure my mind is in the right place. Nothing comes easy, and so much hard work is usually required to get the sub-conscious mind working the in the most successful way, this being the way to being a winner. I Love to learn and will consistently strive to do so.. ! Sometimes this takes a bit of time to get used to a new way of doing things.. but always for the better.. Very exciting when you can make changes in your life that are good for you and will be forever lasting !

I love that I am putting my body through the hard training now and getting myself a good base to work with, in addition, the nutrition side of things.. being the most important.. is one that I am working hard at consistently improving. That’s what I love about the Body to Be journey.. that everyday I learn about my strengths and weaknesses and also the fact that I can discuss these with people around me… the support crew who help me become a better person each and every day. After all… unless you can start admitting your faults, and seek assistance where needed.. you may always find yourself in the same rut you have been in for way too long !

So Far so good!

2009-08-03T15:41:00.002+10:00

Its another week and I have had a great weekend working on the grid at the V8's - we had the pleasure of wearing a rather bright cat suit this weekend - and I also ran into some old work colleagues on the grid which was a real surprise, and always great to chat to those who you haven't seen in ages. This is a picture of an old work colleague of mine from about 5 years ago. They happened to be sponsoring a car on the day so they got the pleasure of being able to go on to the track before the race!

My daily goals are well underway – and so I have realized... it’s so much easier to work toward my goals on a daily basis.. step by step of the way.. rather than thinking of the BIG picture all the time.. if I break my goals into “Daily” its so much more of an achievement if at the end of the day I can look back and tick all the boxes. Today’s goals were 1. Have a good productive day at work. 2. Complete two cardio sessions, first being a 1 hour power walk (which I did this morning at 5am) and also an Afterburn Interval training session (which will be done after work tonight – 19 minutes… which includes 5 minute power walk to warm up then 1 minute sprint as hard as I can go then 2 minutes recovery, repeat this 2 more times then 5 minute warm down) – I will do this combo 3 times this week as extra to really get the fat burning process back under way and break the plateau that I current sit on!
Weight training goals for today were to do a good solid Biceps and Chest session – which I completed at lunch time. Feeling great so far ! Eating has been to plan also, I am really focusing on eating as clean as possible to compliment my training. So all in all a good start to the week.

Step by step I will get back into action and really focus on my daily “have too’s” to get where I want to !

Have a great night and I hope your Monday has seen you that little bit closer to achieving your goals. I know my day has!

Small cap of my goals for tomorrow – These include – 1 hour power walk in the AM, Triceps and Back weight training session and clean eating. Also to have another productive day in the office and get on top of all tasks for the day. 

Bring on a new week!

2009-08-02T20:03:00.002+10:00

I cannot believe the weekend is already over ! Boo Hoo ! Its been a good one though and have been flat out the entire time. After a fab two days on the race track down at sandown, I have enjoyed some downtime on the couch later this evening.

I did however go for the best cardio session late this afternoon with my man.. what was going to be a casual power walk turned into a gruelling uphill slog and boy was I sweating it out at the end of it.. it was unreal, nothing beats having someone who takes two steps to your one where you have to make that extra effort to keep up with them.. sure i hated it at the time but after felt a treat... so much so we have made a pact to do 3 incline power walks in the PM this week ! Its time to turn up the heat and really get back into things.. stop slacking off and make that extra effort to put in additional training sessions.. really watch what I consume and basically get back into the "pre-comp" mindset. When you do not have a clear goal.. ie a comp coming up it is too easy to just have a little bit of chocolate here or some lollies etc.. so, its back to thinking like and training like I used to... with a heap more discipline and structure!!! Bring on the week.... !

Tomorrow my goals for the day are consume 6 small clean, healthy meals... training will include a cardio session in the AM which will be a treadmill session and also weights session in the afternoon (Biceps and Chest), then in the PM a 45 minute power walk after dinner. Very excited to see what this week brings and also have my beautiful best friend and her fiances engagement next weekend. ! Such a good week ahead !!!!

Adrenaline Rush.. Bring it on !

2009-08-01T19:50:00.002+10:00

Its been almost a week since I have checked in due to many things happening during the week. I have had such a great week - mind you at the start of it had mu confused cap on.. my head was a little all over the shop with a bit of lost motivation and had felt very tired..!

In times like this - what is the best thing to do... it is to pull in your support crew.. those who give you great advice... those who are motivating, those who support you and make you feel like.. YES.. you can do it. ! So thanks so much to the likes of Perry Venakis, Lia Halsall, Tim Martin and the boys down at Dohertys Gym.. your support and uplifting spirit and words of wisdom and the best thing and I appreciate it more than anything.. being professionals in your field, you really know how to lift the motivation levels back to 100/100.

I am working through some great new goals, opportunities and just "things" that will see me move into new phases. Its so exciting when you make changes for the better, and start working on new ideas and ways of doing things!

with that in mind I have enjoyed a great day down at the V8 supercars, having the pleasure of working on the grid.. the adrenaline you get when you are standing on the grid and the V8s come from behind you and miss you by cms to get their position is pretty hard to explain.. those other girls who have been out there would know exactly what I am talking about! ITS TOTALLY UNREAL! Makes me realise how good it is to get a bit of adrenaline in your life .. as much as possible actually and more to the point, it has made me think about what else i can do in my life to get that feeling again.. that unreal adrenaline rush where you are in a moment of your life that you just think.... HOW GOOD IS THIS !

So, my mind is going to be ticking away wondering what my next adrenaline rush will be.... more to follow !

Monday Madness.

2009-07-27T15:20:00.001+10:00

Melbourne weather is bizarre, one minute it is sunny and next raining….. whilst I love nothing more than summer and the heat, it’s nice on a Monday afternoon – now that I have completed my cardio for the day (a 40 minute interval training session this morning) and a smashing legs program today at lunch – It was a ripper too… I am very much looking forward to heading home later today, outing my trackies on and relaxing in a nice warm house with a delicious home cooked meal from Mum ! What a way to end the day ! I am somewhat tired today – and looking forward to an early night too.

Nothing beats catching up on sleep and I find that if I can get early nights on Monday and Tuesday I am a lot better for it later in the week !

I have a great week ahead and so far so good, my Monday has been great ! It can always be hard to get back into the week, which is why I choose to do my exercise first thing in the morning to get the week and day off to a great start… I am sure by now, those of you who haven’t done anything yet physical – you may be dreading having to do something later today – or unless you are mentally motivated already, once the rains come out.. I know how easy it is to want to go and chill on the couch after a long day ! I reckon you should do yourself justice and start to get the motivation to do your exercise first thing in the morning – nothing beats getting your day off to a great start and feeling ready to go, go, go!

To the Beat of the Drum !

2009-07-26T16:32:00.002+10:00

STOPPP me now.. how good is it when you get on a roll and you just get heaps done! Well since getting back from Perth last night - and what an unreal time we had! The weather in Perth is just stunning and we enjoyed plenty of fun times and also great food and beautiful walks down by the beaches of Cottesloe and Scarborough! I tell you what.. its heaven on earth down at the Perth beaches - if I had more time I could have walked for miles and miles!

Last night I got a great 8 hours of sleep, and did feel a little bit rusty this morning at 8am.... however I wasn't ready to waste my day thinking about it.. so I got myself up, enjoyed a yummy brekky of hot rolled oats with ASN Evolve Protein YUM YUM... then threw on my running shorts and sneakers and out the door I went.. what was going to be a 30 minute run.. (i had some serious energy to burn, so a power walk this time round wasn't going to cut it) - I stormed out the door and got back 1 hour later.. I can assure you, that not only did the sunshine keep me out there, but having the new Ministry of Sound album on my ipod made the journey all that more enjoyable. For me, when I do my cardio - I love nothing more than having unreal music blaring in my ears.. it helps me get the job done with the best intensity and also without thinking about the occasional pain it my be causing me.

After returning from my run, it was time to do what I love doing most - preparing all my clean healthy meals for my lunches for the week. This week I stocked up on a heap of green veggies, salads, chicken breast and basmati rice. Cooking it was the fun part and also made a deliciousssss lunch for myself with chicken, steamed veggies, basmati rice drizzled with freshly squeezed lemon juice and herbs ! DELICIOUS!

Our house is coming along a treat and today all our electrical's were completed. My man and the lovely Azza did an amazing job finishing off all our extra electrical work we are adding in, to ensure we can have all the lighting we want, TVs on the walls in the right place, (most importantly for the gym room - it was important the LCD is strategically placed at the right height on the wall for when doing cardio on the treadmill).. so its all firing in this regard.. we hope to see plenty of brick work happening this week and the plastering also begins inside! THANKS AZ for all your help ! You are truly amazing !

Okay - so whats been even better today - with so much going on.. my energy levels seem to triple, so I decided to take myself out for a power walk this time, with my new music, and had the best fun ever... I have made a play list with all my favorite dance tracks and made it my rule that for every step I took it had to be to the beat of the music.. BRING IT ON.. seriously - this may sound totally dorky, but I didnt even realise the time, I didnt thing about the wicked cardio workout I was getting, I just got myself into this unreal trance of dance by stepping in time to the music... ! I cannot wait to get out there in the AM tomorrow and do it all again... yes we all have music playing when we cardio it up.. however i bet alot of you have never actually tried for every second you are out there walking/running - that it MUST be in time to the music.. try it.. its more fun than you think!! :-) There are heaps of easy ways to enjoy your exercise.. if you are one of those people who find it hard to get motivation.... and this I believe is one of them !

Well its time to sign off for the day - looking forward to an unreal week.. and a HUGELY busy one for me.. I am working 12 days straight from tomorrow onwards as this Saturday and Sunday I am working on the grid at the V8 supercars. Hopefully the weather holds out and brings a little sunshine, as there is nothing worse then wearing 'stuff all' in the middle of a race track where the wind is almost 5 times cooler then normal.. and all eyes are on you when you are trying to put on a brave face like its "not really that cold".. I can tell you now.. it is FREEEZING!

Enjoy your week and hope you all have had a great weekend.. !!!!

Life's too short to let em' get ya down !

2009-07-23T14:15:00.000+10:00

After speaking to a very much respected buddy of mine… I came to think.. why is it that people will go to great lengths to make others feel crap all in the name of making themselves feel better about themselves. These sorts of people generally have deeper issues that they need to deal with in life, however in the meantime, they will cover these up by bringing others down… only to find that they are overcome with a massive amount of guilt later for their behavior. It is funny the way the human mind works – this sort of behavior also generally works on a roller coaster ride where they may be totally nice to your face then shit-can you behind your back. I personally try to steer clear of these sorts of people as I find them “Toxic”, and they won’t do any justice to get you in the right frame of mind… that being a very positive one.. and one that will see you consistently moving forward in life.

I am sure we have all come across people like mentioned above… but it’s the way you deal with these people that makes the difference.. do you constantly put up with the behavior and let it bring you down.. or do you accept it’s not good for your frame of mind and make the conscious effort to move on from these people. Sometimes it is VERY hard to do this, however, I see it as “all part of the life journey”.. and if you try too hard to hold on to something that is consistently putting a strain on your personal growth then it’s time to move on.

It’s things like this that can seriously affect your performance to when it comes to self-harm (and when I say self-harm I am talking about overeating or not giving two stuffs about your health and wellbeing).. you know the mood you get in when you throw the towel in and say – whatever I don’t care anymore.. I might as well eat that whole block of chocolate, and stuff exercise I cannot be bothered today – what’s a couple of inactive days matter..! I am a strong believer that whatever is going on in your life, will also affect the way you look after yourself (mind and body).. If you are always hanging around positive people, who are in the right mindset, who bring you up and make you feel good.. then you naturally do the right thing by yourself.. eat well, exercise, set goals and work your arse off to achieve them, this is because you thrive on their motivation and drive.. or there is the latter – where you hang around negative people, the ones that will always find faults in you, make you feel crap and basically shit the hell out of you.. from this, it’s like the snow ball effect – you get shitty, you get in “Cannot be bothered” moods because they “put you in one”, you lose your drive and motivation toward your goals and almost give up !

I cannot speak for ANYONE.. however I write from my heart and from MY life experiences, and I am sure that many people out there would agree with me that this is generally the case.. or maybe not. I used to put up with it, however I have learnt and am always still learning, that it hasn’t done me any good, so I choose to just accept that it’s the way it is and move on. I honestly don’t think there is anything bad in doing that (“that” meaning moving on from toxic friendships/relationships) – not everyone is meant to get along, nor is everyone meant to be friends forever or in that “perfect” relationship forever, that’s what life’s all about I guess.. finding out along the way!

Anyhow – so if you are unmotivated and have lost your drive today – or yesterday or last week for that matter and are finding it hard to get your “mojo” back – have a think about your life and the people in it that are your support crew… make sure they are doing just that !

So the sun has just come out in chilly ole Melbourne – bring that on I say – Vitamin D – can never get enough of the stuff! I have just finished my Day 4 today with a smasher legs program ! I look forward to seeing how well I can walk tomorrow ! I have done all 4 weight programs in a row this week as I am jetting off tomorrow for a few days so won’t be near a gym – however I will certainly have my walking shoes with me so I can get some excellent power walks in.. nothing better than being in a new state, and experiencing new walking tracks etc !

Feeling a treat and roaring to go !!

I hope you all enjoy a few brisk walks over the weekend and if you haven’t done weights this week – hurry up and go do some – cause you will never have felt better after pumping out a good iron session!

Hump Day !

2009-07-22T11:11:00.001+10:00

How good is a bit of Vitamin D – I really have needed it over the last few days, as I have been really run off my feet and the tired factor has been killing me.. however I still get through and just do what I have to do ! The one thing that keeps me on my toes and feeling the best is my training, so I have been fitting in some seriously good power walks over the last 3 days and also done a really good Back and Triceps program and also Biceps and Chest on Monday ! two very good days on the weights this week !
I will be doing my four day split over 4 days… (without a mid week rest) this week as I head off to Perth on Friday – Yippeee.. cannot wait ! I do look forward to a nice walk along the Swan River at some stage that’s for sure !
So a tip – if you are feeling tired.. and we ALL at this time of year feel the pangs of winter.. and the cold weather.. get in some training EVERYDAY and allow yourself 1 day off on the weekend as a complete rest day and recoupe.. it will give you a chance to recharge your batteries and come back better than ever.. Sleep and a days rest each week have become my best friend as I am finding my results are really good when I follow this regime. Don’t ever under estimate the importance of a good night’s sleep either ! So important !! If you feel you will be making excuses later in the day to exercise.. do it first thing in the morning.. no excuses…. You will feel 110% better for it and your body and mind will thank you too for getting some fresh air first in the morning.. I recommend a brisk 30 minute walk.. every AM to charge your batteries for the day – then you will have no excuses later to miss. I prefer to do my weight training later in the day as this is when I have my prime energy and can belt out a really good 30 minute superset program ! and those who think you need hours in the gym.. your wasting your time.. get in , go hard or go home as they say.. don’t waste your time socializing in the gym … go in there and work your butt off.. literally… have maximum of 60 seconds rest between sets if that.. I prefer super-setting to keep the heart rate up the entire time and have a drink of water between each set as my break and get straight back into it !
Enjoy the rest of HUMP day and get excited.. cause summer is on its way and its time to get those bodies and minds into tip top shape ! x

SOOO much happening.. Just a quickie !

2009-07-20T15:55:00.000+10:00

This will be a really quick blog today – quiet simply I have been under the pump big time and haven’t had a second to scratch myself. So short and sweet – Weekend was great – did heaps and had a great time Saturday night! Was great hitting the town! Did some great power walks on the weekend and my day today has been so full on, but managing to fit in a cardio session this morning and also a good biceps and chest program at lunch time ! So I am up to speed so far and ready to take on the week – Got a good one coming up including a trip to Perth and our house well under way with the brick work.. not much to complain about from my end – all is good, good, goodie ! I look forward to getting my blogging shoes back on shortly when I have a little more time up my sleeves!
I also need to respond to many emails from people so, if you are reading this and haven’t yet got a response.. you know why – I am not ignoring you, I just simply haven’t had to chance to respond properly !
Wishing you all a great week and work hard, play hard and have fun!

Wooooooopieeee its Friday !!!!!

2009-07-17T14:28:00.001+10:00

Woot Woot – its almost the weekend.. Who is EXCITED !!!!!

I have had an unbelievable week and I am positive I will have a spectacular weekend ! I have done my quota of training sessions (resistance) finishing off today with a killer legs program.. literally – Jell-O legs, I’m looking like a freak right now, since I am jiggling as I walk.. I think I used up every scarce of energy I possibly had left in my legs ! Lucky I did my cardio first thing this morning to get it done and dusted as I can assure you it would have been a fairly hard task had I have decided to sleep through my alarm and not do it.. What a stupid idea that would have been.. Thus – why I never choose to sleep through my alarms ! Had a late night last night so sleep was scarce.. but you know what.. no use in winging about being so tired.. I knew how good I would feel after a sweet as incline power walk first thing at 5am.. ! Nothing better to cure sleep deprivation I say !

Yesterday I enjoyed the day out of the gym and just did some cardio and Wednesday was a smashing Shoulders workout ! This weekend, my agenda includes upping my cardio tomorrow and Sunday is my full day off for Rest and Recovery so I come back recharged and ready to go for another 6 days !

Aside from the healthy stuff… I am VERY excited to be going out tomorrow night for a friends birthday in the city and also catching up with other friends which has been long past its due by at another venue for a new promotional night happening at a very cool joint ! What does this mean.. well, Vicky needs to go get herself a new kit to wear…which will be my goal tomorrow – yes I don’t do all this hard work for nothing… so it’s a pleasure buying myself a new outfit as it doesn’t happen to often.. I have worked hard at the training and diet this week so I should fit nice and snug in a cute little frock ! Oh and cannot forget the spray tan I will have to get tonight… oh the joys of being a woman ! So much fun and nothing more I like than taking my time to get ready to go out when its been a while since I have done so ! Especially for an occasion ! 

Okie Dokie – well I hope you all have something special planned for the weekend ! Keep up the training and don’t let the weekend eating blues get you down.. instead of that pizza and beer your gonna have tonight.. why not settle for a delicious roast chicken salad ! Woolworths possibly have the best roast chickens getting around.. and with the skin taken off and the white tender chicken mixed into a salad.. you have the perfect meal ! xxxx

BOO HOO - That poor Fat Person !!!

2009-07-15T13:56:00.000+10:00

Firstly, I have just belted out what was a wicked Shoulders program today – was fast and furious and starting to get some great results in the shoulders region ! By summer.. im looking for athletic, toned and sexy arms.. bring it on ! Consistency is the key girlies for beautiful toned (NON-SAGGY) arms.

Secondly, I also did a belta interval training session first thing this morning on the tredders which was 3 minutes power walk, 3 minutes run. I did this 4 times over which amounted to a total of 5kms and approx 30 minutes on the treadmill! So my training is complete for the day and its only early afternoon ! Yipeee – my diet has also been spot on today so going great in that area too!

A bit of a gripe.. is it just me or does anyone else out there get sick of overweight people winging and complaining that it’s not their fault, or people saying look at that “poor” fat person.. oh how I feel sorry for them etc etc.. ARE YOU KIDDING.. why would you feel sorry for anyone who has let themselves go…. This sounds totally harsh but I really believe that people need to start taking responsibility for the way their body is looking.. why would you feel sorry for someone who has consistently eaten crap and been lazy, only to find themselves all of a sudden “FAT” and unattractive……..I don’t give a shit about what sort of circumstance someone is in.. EVERYONE.. has the capability to have an amazing body ! I mean everyone..!! Has anyone seen the story on a current affair or 60 minutes about the fella with no arms and no legs.. yet he is still as physical as can be, slim and in great shape doing what most “fully functional” people are NOT doing!
So the next time you find yourself feeling sorry for your situation, or saying poor them for being overweight.. for once just admit that its only one persons fault.. and that would be their own..

Me personally, I can say I am always FIRST to admit my many faults as a person and I am far, far, far from perfect… .. In times where I have been out of shape.. I am first to admit that I am totally responsible for being out of shape, and that I am the only one who can fix my problem…I don’t go about blaming outside circumstance… or anything else for that matter.. I just say, Vicky, you have let yourself go.. what a shame.. okay so what am I going to do about it.. and go about fixing the problem.. however these days I choose to keep in the best (without being obsessive or out of control) shape possible so I don’t get back to the point where I find myself miserable due to letting myself go, with that comes losing self confidence and not feeling 110%! I believe that without self-confidence, people don’t live their life to their maximum potential as it is their confidence levels that can hold them back from even the smallest of tasks in life… I TAKE TOTAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE WAY I LOOK AND THE WAY I AM FEELING. I can get all the advice I want from professionals, however I am the only one who can change my situation!

So, if you are sitting here reading this blog and still playing the blame game, start taking responsibility into your own hands.. you can change your body, mind, and life if you just take action now ! I promise..when I was younger I had a habit of playing the blame game, until I got plenty of very good advice from people who actually know their stuff and have been through it themselves.. I chose to take this advice and put it to good use..! This is all part of growing up I guess and I am very excited about my long journey of growth yet to come! My inner sponge is always ready to soak in as much information and knowledge as possible – After all – KNOWLEDGE IS POWER !

THE Negativity VIBE!

2009-07-14T14:31:00.001+10:00

How many of you have come across someone who is just constantly negative.. Yes, we all have our negative moments, but I am talking about someone who tries to talk you out of a good thing - constantly, only cause it might make them feel better about their own “rut” they are currently in.

You know, those people who say to you “Why the F^&k would you want to train on a Friday night”, or why do you eat that healthy crap.. your missing out on the good stuff (ie. Fried fatty food and chocolate and anything to put more fat on your bum – and yes I love this sort of food… but I know whats best for me)….. hrmmmm does this sound familiar… what about the ones who say that they are “too busy” to do that (i.e. a good exercise program) and that “you must have way too much time on your hands” to fit in an exercise program etc.

All I can say is this behavior shits me to the bone. People trying to make others feel bad or bring them down because they know they are doing the right thing, and that perhaps it’s something they should be doing.. i.e. getting fit or eating right… ! I hear it all the time… Seems people who know they are doing the wrong thing, always try and bring others down to make themselves feel a whole lot better inside.. then end up cursing themselves because they just cannot get that sort of motivation.
Sometimes you need to move these sorts of people out of your life and realize that they are not quite worth the time or effort. When someone is trying to talk you out of a good thing.. then you really need to ask yourself the question.

I know that when I was preparing for a few competitions earlier this year, I copped it quite a bit about being a stick in the mud, or boring, or a loser for not wanting to eat “fatty foods” or drink alcohol – basically anything that would potentially ruin my efforts. Yes it did bring me down a lot at first before I knew how to deal with it. However I learnt to push past the negativity and realize that it was deep down a problem within them, and that it bought the attention to the fact that they should consider their health or fitness goals..

So if these people sound like a familiar “thing” in your life then reconsider who you hang with.. harsh.. maybe.. sometimes the truth hurts and to get places in life occasionally you need to put the trash out so you can reach your full potential ! Cause I can guarantee the constant negative comments, behavior etc will eventually bring you down and stop you dead in your tracks if you cannot deal with it the right way.

ANYWAY – Enough said.. I am feeling good this arvo… have had a fault free day so far with my diet.. all clean foods have gone into me… and I feel great.. have completed a 40 minute power walk in the AM and also a supersetted Back and Triceps program today ! BINGO – another day down.. further to my goals.! Tonight I will throw in an extra 20 minute interval run just because its time to turn things up a little ! Happy Tuesday to you all and I look forward to HUMP day tomorrow and all that Wednesday brings ! xoxoxox

All is good from this end !

2009-07-13T19:12:00.002+10:00

brrrrr - its colllddd today ! Nonetheless, I have had an unreal day !

All good to report for the start of the week - I completed a 30 minute cardio session this morning on the treadmill today and also did my Day 1 - Chest and Biceps program !

My diet was tip top and getting back into the full swing of things on the eating side of things as i really have to prep myself for some important shoots that i have coming up. Its always hard getting back into the swing of things but I can say that my first day has been a good one... and yes I more refer to the diet side of things. Its back to square one clean eating for me.. including heaps of lean proteins, steamed veggies, oats, shakes, fruit (in the AM), and basically putting all things healthy into my body !

So looking forward to the way I will feel at the end of my first week ! I do have a few dinners this week which I will need to try and make the most sensible choices, however won't get myself down if i don't do the right thing !!!! Good things take time and I have all the time in the world to be good to my body - VERY exciting times to come people ! And I am very excited about the second half of the year ! woooopppp woopppp - Anyway - Its time to get a few chores done.. so enjoy your Monday evening and have a great Tuesday !!!!

xxx