Running, Calories, and Weight Loss...Oh My!

*I don't really like talking about my weight on here but I was inspired by a blog that I read so if this encourages one person, it's worth it!*

This is a sentence I certainly thought I'd never say...

I completed the Couch to 5k program!!!!!!!!!!

Y'all probably don't understand how huge of a deal this is for me. This is the first time in my life that I've ever completed an exercise goal. Over the years, I've tried LA Fitness, Boot camp, Jazzercise, a personal trainer, and more, but I've never stuck to anything for more than a few weeks. I even attempted the Couch to 5k a year ago but quit after 4 weeks. But this time, it was different.

I still can't believe that I did it. That I can run 3 miles without stopping. Before now, I hadn't even run a full mile! I remember back to the first week or so when I would be SO winded from running 2 minutes. Yeah, I was pretty terrible. So if I can do this, anyone can!

I don't think I've ever been so motivated. I have gained close to 20 pounds since our wedding, and with our trip to Mexico coming up in May, I was determined to feel good in a bikini by then. Over the past year or so, I've "dieted" occasionally, meaning I completed changed my eating habits overnight....and it didn't last long at all. I went from eating pizza, chicken fingers, cheeseburgers all the time, to only eating healthy foods- grilled chicken and rice, salads, etc. That method just does not work for me. It would last a week, maybe two, and then I couldn't resist my urge for cheeseburgers any longer (Cheeseburgers and fries are my weakness.) For me, if I cut out a food from my diet, it only makes me want it that much more. 

But then I read Amanda's weight loss story. She said that she had tried eating healthy for so long, and her weight didn't budge. She started counting calories and just like that, the weight started coming off. So I started using My Fitness Pal to keep track of my calories each day, and sure enough, I've been able to lose 1-2 pounds a week. I'm still eating what I want, but I've reduced portions and have the splurge foods much less frequently. I've found that when I see the progress I'm making, the healthy choices are much easier to make. But if I'm really wanting a cheeseburger that day, I just go for a run to make room for the extra calories :)

So far, I've lost 9 pounds and am hoping to lose about 10 more. For the first time, this is not just a diet- it's a lifestyle change and it will be permanent. I want to keep running (I am running my first 5k on Sunday!), and I want to maintain a healthy weight, but most importantly, I want to feel good about myself. And I'm very excited that I'm on my way there!