You can do anything for 30 days, right?
That’s what I told myself this evening when I signed up for an unlimited month of classes at a local workout studio.
I’ve come to terms with the fact that I’ll likely never be one of those self-motivated people who can pump herself up to go to the gym and do a self-guided workout. As much as it feels like a huge failure to not be able to get the motivation to do that, I also can’t let it prevent me from caring for my body.
I’ve been in denial about my fitness lately. I kept justifying it with “I’m too busy,” or “I’ll join the gym next week,” and then weeks and weeks went by with no action (though I did, miraculously, do a home workout video about 2 weeks ago and I could hardly walk for three days!)
(truer words have never been written—source: letsbehealthy.tumblr.com)
For the past several months, I’ve worked out, on average, once or twice a week.
Sometimes zero times a week. I started to notice how weak and defeated I felt and knew I had to do something about it. All of my clothes still fit the same and I haven’t weighed myself in a long time…but my body just doesn’t feel strong and toned anymore, and I hate that.
I’ve also been making an effort to eat better (though, I am writing this post eating ShaSha Co. Ginger Snaps, but that’s neither here nor there). I just want to regain that feeling I had when I was kicking butt working out 4-6 days a week.
So I’ve made this commitment to myself—a 30 day challenge, if you will, to get back into shape. Thank goodness muscles have memory, because I sure had a lot of em’ last year.
(okay, so I won’t be running, but darn this girl is fit!—source: thefitspogirl.tumblr.com)
Right now is the time to start your workout routines ladies. It’s right before summer and it’s the perfect time to motivate yourself to tone up before we start to wear shorts and swimsuits. If you’re in the same slump as I am, let’s make May the month of change.
Focus on how much better you will feel. I haven’t been sleeping well lately, something that has been hard for me because I’m usually a great sleeper. I can’t seem to fall asleep until 11, 11:30 or midnight most nights. I used to be out cold by 10:30. I still feel happy and energized throughout the day because I have a job that I love and that keeps me busy—but I would love to sleep better and working out always did that for me.
(aaaannnddd my abs will likely never look like hers,
but, darn, those are some abs! source here)
So my challenge to you is to join me for these 30 days and let’s see what happens. Let’s try to eat right, go for walks more often and work out—whether it’s at home, in a gym or taking classes, like me. Whatever works best for you, let’s get to the end of May with clearer minds and more toned bodies.
Who’s with me? My goal is to work out six days a week. This will include as many classes as possible and going for walks in the pretty weather we have here right now.
(important to remember! source: https://www.tumblr.com/tagged/fitspo)
It will be a nice reward to go to Toronto at the end of May feeling better than I did as I sit here and type this today.
xoxo,
Veronika.
Kristin says
I'm in! I do Jazzercise and have been pretty consistent with it 3-4x a week but would like to ramp it up to 5-6x a week.
Alicia says
I had the same slump going! I found that I always had an excuse. Recently I started writing my gym sessions on a wall calendar that I have to walk by every time I go anywhere in my room. Just seeing more than one or two blank days in a week is just the visual I need to get my butt to the gym. I write things like "4 miles", arms, legs, abs, in each block as a short reference, even if the activities are different from session to session for arms, legs, or abs.
Steph says
I'm IN!!!! 🙂 I've been looking for something to do because I have been floating all over the place!
Chloe says
I am SO with you. I used to be a gym rat in my early 20's, and I miss those days. I had my energy, less anxiety/stress, and just felt all around so much better. Fab post, V!
Canadian Beauty says
what is bringing you to Toronto? best of luck with your fitness goals 🙂
Katherine says
I'm in! I was in the slump since October, just before my dad unexpectedly got really sick and passed away in January. Within the last few weeks I have been trying to get back to working out and eating healthy. This week I started again very seriously. I started Insanity since I realized I'm not quite ready for the questions from my gym friends. So far I haven't missed a day or cheated on my eating! Let's do this girls!!!!
Anonymous says
Started doing CrossFit three days a week and running at least 3 miles another three days, and I. Feel. Awesome.
handlenhers says
I'm in!
Lilly says
Ah, the story of my life. Not a single day goes by where I don't say tomorrow I REALLY need to work out (tomorrow still hasn't showed up). I need to stop pinning inspirational fitness photos and actually start doing something. I think I need to be IN on this challenge!
Jill Marie says
Count me in!
Anonymous says
Hi! Good for you for wanting to get fit. Most important thing is diet but you don't have to workout 6 days a week. Your body needs a couple of days to rest. The girls in the images have great bodies but as you can see they have muscle definition. That comes from lifting weights Not from just doing cardio everyday. Cardio builts endurance and creates a calorie deficit. Lifting weights helps with reduction of body fat.
Miss K says
i just went back to the gym this week. i've never been into working out, always on and off over the years. this week i've decided to take my measurements, weigh myself, and keep a workout/food log. we'll see how it goes!
good luck to everyone!
jillian says
I so need to do this too!
Nyla says
I'm so in!! I really need to get in shape!! I've been trying the last couple of months and always found an excuse to stop. I don't want that anymore so, let's do this 🙂
Anonymous says
Good on you V! I have been on a health kick the last month and have been going to the gym 4-5 times a week. I alternate between running, going to a spin class and doing a light weights routine. Exercise is so great for the mind and I feel so damn good afterwards! All the best with your 30 day challenge! You can do it!
maddieewhite says
i just got my 30 day shred dvd through the post so this is perfect timing. i'm in! x
Jalila says
I'm in..let's get over this slump!!!
Meghan says
I'm in! We are getting ready to move to Colorado but I'm excited bc there's a great gym a mile from our new house! Great idea!
Anonymous says
Ok, I'm in!! I go to the gym (but we have no instructors at the Y 🙁 ) and I have been trying myself to do some pilates at home. I have a million workout DVDs on my netflix queue…
Oh, I love: SWEAT IS FAT CRYING pic, LOL! I just sent it to my sister xD
Devon says
I re-committed myself to fitness about a month & a half ago & I've seen huge results. This is just the push I need to keep myself motivated until my vacation in May! Have you thought about using Gympact? I started doing that to keep myself accountable & going to the gym & I've already made $15 just by going to the gym. Not a ton, but it funds my workout music account 🙂
Katie says
My friend and I just started this week getting back into gear. My goal is 4x a week right now, but I'd love to do 6. Although anything was better than the zero times that I had gotten to these last few weeks. You're not alone there!
Anonymous says
Count me in Veronika! This is just what I needed! Thanks for posting!
-Melissa M
Rachel says
Great idea! I've been meaning to get a workout video that I can do at home. Maybe even a mom and baby one? I seriously don't have time for the gym right now (I even froze my membership) but I used to go allll the time, and I felt so great!….Off to look for a video!
Schnelle says
I'm in the same slump and I've been here for way too long. I'm with you! I'm going to aim for 4 days a week.
Anonymous says
I'm In. I married 1 1/2 year ago and I feel the same. Still using the same clothes but doesn't fit the same. Time to start! Casually I start yesterday!
Lindsey says
I feel the same way! I need to get back on track. I'm the MoH in my sister's wedding in September. I need to get my butt in gear so I look/feel great in those pictures that will haunt me forever!
The Morelands says
My husband and I actually committed a few weeks ago that starting may 1st we wont be using any petrol (we live in s.korea) so that means bikes and electric subways/trains only! We will be commuting every day on our bikes in conjunction with our normal work out routines so we are hoping to burn off some extra fat in time for the summer!!! Good luck to you, you will do great!
Sarah S. says
I can so relate to how you feel! I can't start this just yet, unfortunately. LOL @ sweat is fat crying XD I like the "fitspo" but if it's any consolation the girl with amazing abs most definitely has fake boobs. There's nothing wrong with fake boobs, imho, but certainly to have the body fat percentage low enough to have such amazing abs a girl would lose her boobs so to have both you'd almost have to get implants! But regardless of looks (I'm sure you still look incredibly gorgeous), I also miss just how good I feel when I work out regularly. Cheering for you and hopefully I'll be able to do this soon, too.
[email protected] says
Sarah—I have a friend who is a size zero, skinny skinny skinny and she has natural C/D cup boobs! It happens in nature, but not often 🙂
I myself have implants, which is nice because they don't fluctuate in size.
Colleen says
I am totes in for this. I have been horrible for the past few weeks about my work outs and eating habits. While I haven't gained pounds necessarily, I just don't feel like I am in great shape and I need to change that. I will definitely be posting to your FB to keep myself (and everyone else) motivated! Sometimes I think that is the toughest part! xoxo
Pamela says
Good luck veronika! The hardest part is the first week and once you get back into the workout routine, it is SO much easier! You are lucky though, if I am not in the gym AT LEAST 4 days a week with intense cardio, I BLOW up! LOL! Have you ever tried yoga? I just started practicing in January and I LOVE IT! You should give it a try if you are thinking of something new! 🙂
xoxo
Pam
Wendy says
I'm in! I'm going to finish the c25k soon, but my goal for the 30 day challenge is to run every other day. Unless I'm sick, I'll be out there!
THE MARTINS says
I'm in too! Still need to lose the last of the baby weight!!
THE MARTINS says
I'm in too….still need to lose the last of the baby weight!!
Anonymous says
A lurker here chiming in to say count me in! I am also trying to live a healthier lifestyle, and I look forward to reading your blogposts to keep me motivated!
Sheila says
I'm in, too! I recently joined the Tone It Up plan and I have become so much more accountable with what I eating and making sure I get my workouts in as well. I also sleep so much better when I am in a regular workout routine. I was so inspired by you last year!
Anonymous says
I'm totally with you! I'm currently going to the gym 4 times a week but I just started last October and I can clearly see the benefits on my mind and in my bosy as well. Of course you got to eat as healthy as possible, otherwise just working out simply won't work. I do believe that the next 30 days are crucial to get ready for the summer and so I'd like to push myself a wee bit more.
Great post Veronika, love your blog!
Alessia
Lena says
Hi Veronica! I am with you on this. I will mostly do at home workouts (Insanity), but my goal is 5-6 days per week. I do substitute workouts for running at the Memorial Park. if you want to tart running and need a running buddy, let me know 🙂
Love your blog and your personality!
Yelena
Lena says
Hi Veronica! I am with you on this. I will mostly do at home workouts (Insanity), but my goal is 5-6 days per week. I do substitute workouts for running at the Memorial Park. if you want to tart running and need a running buddy, let me know 🙂
Love your blog and your personality!
Yelena
April says
I'm with you. I need to step it up.
Mrs. V says
I'm in! I average 3-4 days a week at the gym, but I only do cardio. I need to start getting in 3 days of strength training on top of my cardio. I have a ton of videos to do at home, but no motivation to do them!
Diplospice says
Longtime reader, first time commenter. Such a great post at the perfect moment. I'm definitely in!
Michelle says
I am in…I have a 9 week old baby and need to lose a LOT of the extra lb's she gave me! I have been doing classes at the gym 2 times a week but need to ramp it up! Thanks for this post!
http://www.michelleandheath.com
Becca says
I think this is a great idea. Lately I have noticed that the quality of my workouts has been slipping. With summer approaching and vacation in 3 months it's time to step it up again. I just got back from the gym, 30 mins on the cross trainer and 2 videos from tone it up 🙂
K says
This is awesome timing because I just started to get back into my fitness routine. I lost a bunch of weight last year and while I haven't gained it back, I've definitely started slacking in the exercise and eating healthy departments. I've noticed more trouble sleeping too, and having a really hard time getting out of bed in the mornings. But last week something clicked (ok…my mom gave me her old elliptical that she can longer use due to arthritis in her knees) and I've been working out regularly and eating real foods instead of drive through or packaged stuff. I can't even tell you how much difference just a week has had! I fall asleep quicker, wake up happier and easier, I feel proud of myself which leads me to a good mood all day long and I'm really enjoying the routine of working out regularly. I always knew how good it made me feel to be on top of my fitness…but damn, it was so easy to let it all go!
All of that nonsense to say heck yes I'm in! And especially since my birthday is in May, so I want to feel stellar for that 🙂
Miss V says
LOVE this!! I always try to mix up my routine with walks, runs, dvds, classes, and just the good old eliptical at the gym! I am LOVING Jillian Michaels Ripped in 3O DVD that I found at Target for $12 it's a 30 day routine with 4 different workouts, from start to finish it's 30 minutes, (although while you're working out she keeps telling us it's a 20 min workout) It's hard but totally do-able. PS I hope you don't mind but your cleaning post really inspired me and I featured it on my blog today! xoxo.
Birdy says
I got to admit: I'm kinda scared. I find it always really hard to motivate myself to go to the gym even though I know I love how I feel afterwards. And when I sign up for a gym class and then don't go it's really depressing. But you're right. That's not an excuse. I'm in 😀 Please keep posting nice work-out motivation pictures 😉
– Birdy
basia8727 says
I'm with you! Not only I would love to be fit and healthy but also need to lose more 10 pounds. For the past 2 months I've been doing Jillian Michael's workout and I'm pround of losing few pounds and looking better. "if it were easy everyone would do it" – well said:) thanks for the post and motivation:)
Anonymous says
I'm in!! I am also in a gym slump..even with working with a trainer once a week, I cant seem to get motivated to work out by myself, especially after work…I'm hoping that with extra encouragement, I will be able to complete a full 30 days!!! Great post btw 🙂
Beautygirl24 says
I'm with you! I am determined to lose a few pounds before the start of Summer, and I really want to tone up again. I lost my motivation after I moved in with my fiance. What can I say, I eat when I'm happy 🙂 I also eat a lot when I'm stressed. So I'm right there with you !
Franny says
Good luck! I finally joined a gym back in February, and also got a trainer (which means I can't skip going to the gym at least twice a week). I really find that working out means I also try to not eat as crazy – I know how much it takes to burn 400 calories, so are those 3 notsogreat cookies worth it? You look great, but its how you feel that makes it worth it.
Kate says
I'm in. I have a gym membership, but with my new job, I've been adjusting to role and working late. Time to buck up and head to the gym after work! 🙂
Thanks.
Anonymous says
I am definitely with you!!! Veronica I actually found you for the first time yesterday when I googled J Crew pencil skirt on YouTube. I am studying to be an elementary teacher and I LOVE skirts. Recently I picked up a couple Limited and Banana Republic skirts and they fit me a bit tighter than I would like. I am 5'4 and weigh 125lb and carry a bit of weight on my thighs and love handles. I have committed to not buy another pair of bottoms (I am actually returning some slacks) until I am the size I would like to be. I would like to use at lease 10 pounds and drop one pants size to fit in some of my older clothes and slim down my legs. I can purchase new slacks and skirts when I am my ideal size. Who wants to have clothes that don't fit well? I have decided that I will reward myself by purchasing the J. crew pink pencil I have been drooling over for awhile!! BTW I love your blog and your advice is very helpful!!
Anonymous says
I am in, lets do it!! Sher.
Charlene says
This is so how I have been feeling lately. I went strong; eating very healthy and working out 4-6 times a week for about a month. Then I went on vacation and I cannot get the motivation to get back into it. I am taking this challenge with you. Healthier eating and gym here I come! Thanks for the great post!
Anonymous says
HI !! Veronica I have been following your blog for a while I live in Chicago IL . and I,m so with u . I will start tomorrow I have a elliptical machine at home that i have not touch in months 🙁 . I have to do it and start soon I have a trip to MIA at the end of May
have a great Day 🙂 …. Mary
Cupcake Couture says
I'm in! I started about 4 weeks ago though, so I'll be continuing on with you! I'm actually on my 3rd week of Insanity, and I absolutely LOVE it! I'm definitely going to do two rounds of this. Within 2 weeks I lost 1 1/2 inches around my waist, 1/2 inch around my calves(is this even remotely possible?) and an 1/2 inch around my thighs. It's AMAZING and I recommend it. 🙂
I'll definitely help motivate you and keep you going. Anything to help girls out! 🙂
Anonymous says
Hi 🙂 It's been great following you and love the motivation you are bringing on! I'm actually on my second week of eating a Paleo diet and have been going to my Crossfit gym 3 days a week and then yoga at least 2-3 days a week. This challenging post will definitely help me keep it going! Thanks!
Farah Ab Rahman says
Sayoska- hi v, yes, i am in with you, if you remember, I am farah from Malaysia, i add you in my facebook….let make it(make it happen)
My Piece of the World says
Oh my goodness, I am SO IN! Lets get this started:)
Anonymous says
I'm in. Good timing, because I needed some motivation to start again.
Dawn says
Hi Veronika! I'm all in! I'd love to be able to tone up my stomach, upper arms, and thighs before bathing suit season hits. On that note, I'm planning on returning to the gym next week (focusing on weight equipment and the elliptical supplemented by swimming and pilates/barre workouts at home) and was just wondering if you had any recommendations for a comfy and affordable pair of sneakers that might be up to the task?
Thanks in advance!
-Dawn
Jen says
Great motivation! I got in the "slump" last fall…I was not a natural-born runner but I started forcing myself to do it as a means of exercise in March 2011. By November 2011 I had run about 10 organized races (usually 5K distance) and I got pretty good…did a 4 mile in Nov. 2011 and took 2nd in my age group. I was super proud of myself, but I fell off the wagon. Forced myself to start back up in Feb. this year (the mild weather helped with the running!) and last Sunday I ran my first half marathon! I am now training for a full marathon which is in the fall, so I definitely need the inspiration to keep going!
rfghnrtgh says
Not sure why women would want to put such an effort into fitness. I mean, men with think you're hotter if you're thinner, but it's not like any amount of strength training or exercise will allow any of you to fight even the weakest man without ending up in the hospital.
[email protected] says
Maybe because some women care about their health. Maybe because obesity is one of the number one problems in America. Maybe because exercise gives you endorphins and more energy.
I am pretty sure there are a ton of women out there who can kick a mans' ass. It is sad you don't think so.
rfghnrtgh says
No, no, there really are almost no women out there who could beat any man in a fistfight, even a small one, unless he were ill or injured or something. We're just too much larger and stronger. Do you really hear any news stories of men getting mugged by women unless they had a weapon? And look how much lower the standards are for women's sports. Lower basketball goals, etc.
Anyway, you choice of pictures pretty much guarantees the main reason you're doing it is to get the attention of men. I'm sure you'll be successful.
Ana says
Im totally in!! I'm totally out of shape, and I will try to post my progress on my blog. But, im totally in!!
J says
Hi! I have been reading your blog for a month now and really enjoy it. I need to lose at least 30 pounds so I am in for the 30 days. Big step for me – I have not worked out regularly in a long time. Thanks for the inspiration! Jennifer
Anonymous says
Do you really think obesity is the number one problem in America? It seems like you believe everything you see, read and are told. I hate to tell you this, but there are obese people that are in better shape than you. One of my "obese" friends run marathons. I think everyone should exercise and try to eat right, but truth be told people don't want to be as thin as the girls in these picture for health, but for the attention and rewards they get from both men and women, for being that thin.
Miss Amethyst says
I think it is important to re-evaluate how you feel, eating habits, activity levels every once in awhile. I am totally with you! I work out 5 times a week, but I have been wanting to add in a 6th day with a more social type of exercise. I would love to play tennis or take a walk with the hubby every Saturday this month. I know you eat very healthy and you are a great reminder that maybe I should not always have that bowl of icecream every night… And, it is important to feel good about yourself whether you are super thin or curvy. Whether you believe obesity is an epidemic or not. It is important for all us to find inspiration to do what makes us feel good.
Vanessa says
New to your blog … and totally in!
Vanessa says
New to your blog! Love it and totally in!