Slim Down Sunday

Heartfelt Homeschool holds a weekly "Slim-Down Sunday" that I thought I'd join in on since it's been a little while since I've updated my exercise progress!

Goals:  Ultimately, my main goal is to be able to run 3-5 miles easily on a regular basis, and complete a 5K race.  I also would like to lose 15-20 pounds of baby weight!  However, since I am exclusively breastfeeding Rachel (meaning, her only source of nutrients!), I am not willing to restrict calories, so weightloss is not my main focus.

Progress:  I am following a plan from a book called "Run Your Butt Off".  I wanted something different from the normal Couch-5K program that I've done in the past, and I've really enjoyed this program!  It's similar to C25K, but different enough to suit me.  The book also has lots of great nutrition and running tips.  I had a few set backs since starting, so I'm not as far along as I originally hoped, but I have stuck with it and am about to start Phase 6, which means I'll do 3 minutes of walking followed by 7 minutes of running, repeating that 3 times.  Overall, that puts me running a little over 2 miles total!  By mid-September, if all goes well, I should be ready to give a 5K a try!

I run 3 days a week, and on the in-between days do a strength training exercise video.  I have several I got from the library, so I mix it up to keep from getting bored.

And for some exciting news, I've actually lost about 2 lbs from my starting weight!  Considering I had actually gained a few pounds when I first started, that makes my total weight loss about 6 pounds in 2 months!  Since that hasn't been my main focus, I was pleasantly surprised!  Of course, when I see that just the small amount of running I've been doing burns almost 400 calories each run, I guess it makes a little sense.

Future Plans:  Just to keep on keepin' on.  I am trying to focus on making better food choices (bypassing the MnMs in the check-out line, fitting in more salads, and so on), and staying consistent in getting to bed on time so that I am able to get up early enough to fit in my workout and not be a zombie all day!

Is anyone else trying to get more fit and/or lose some weight?  How's it going?