Horrible Eating... Christmas Cheer

The holidays are really tough time for me.  I feel like I've been in a funk since Thanksgiving.  I find it so easy to just give up on my clean eating and head out to lunch.  Since I don't do it that often, I find myself ordering the worst thing for me.  It would be just as easy to order a salad.  Today for example, I ordered a cheesesteak with french fries.  WHY!? Because it's like oh it's the holidays, why not, you already worked out today!  I am really hoping that I get out of this funk.  I am good at dinner time.  I cook dinner at home and eat things there.  I think I just want to get out of the office at lunch.  Last week I was good and I ate my lunch in my car. 

I also feel like i'm in a funk for lunch ideas.  I'm tired of eating a salad or veggies with turkey and hummus.  I want something that is fun!  If you have any suggestions on lunch ideas that aren't just veggies and meat please comment!! 

In other news! One girl that I coach has now lost 20 lbs! I'm so excited for her and glad that I could be apart of her journey!! I love being a Beachbody Coach and being able to help othes achieve there goals! <3

Thank goodness it's almost Christmas.  I am super excited to exchange gifts and spend time with my family.  I am especially happy to have some time off from work.  I have been so tired for the past couple weeks.  I really want to be able to spend some time relaxing and vegging out in bed watching awful tv and movies!  Vacations shouldn't just be for the summer 8-)

The Insanity Max 30 is getting easier.  Friday Fight was tough!! You don't get as many breaks as the other workouts.  I improved my time today on the Cardio by 27 seconds.  Any improvement is great in my books! I liked the Pulse workout.  You would stretch and then work the muscles as well.  I sometimes feel in the workouts that I just lose my motivation, but I keep pushing because I want to beat my time.  I think I'm in a winter funk! Today was a lot better than last week.  During the workout I didn't find myself complaining and moaning and groaning! Maybe I just needed to get accustomed to the new workout!

MY BEACHBODY SITE

Insanity Max :30... WHAT IS IT!

ARE YOU READY TO MAX OUT WITH ME? 
MY COACH SITE
ashleyfrancisfitness@gmail.com

This week I started Insanity Max 30.  I'm not going to lie it's literally kicking my butt!! Let's just say yesterday I used shampoo twice and Monday I forgot conditioner.  That's real life.  So, what is this program that has me so discombobulated you ask?

Insanity Max 30 has 12 workouts in 10 DVD's. The workouts are a mixture of Cardio (duh it's Shaun T) and Tabata style strength routines.  These routines will lose weight and tone up!  OH! The great thing with these DVD's, unlike many of the other programs you can use the modifier track.  This means you can have the modifier on the screen the whole time.  Yes, the non modified version is up too!! But, it's awesome because when you feel like you need a break or you need to modify it's available for you.  I have been using this feature and love it!

What is Tabata?!?! I didn't know until I started this program, so don't feel silly if you don't know either.  I'll tell you what it is... it's a killer.  Ok, really it's you workout hard for 20 seconds and then you rest for 10 seconds.  In Insanity Max 30 you do three rounds... yes you heard me three.  I think Shaun T wanted my arms to fall off or something with the push ups.  Although, you have to love him because his arm workouts in this program are hitting all my "trouble areas" or what I like to call my BAT WINGS.  

What is the idea behind this program and why do I keep seeing #IMAXEDOUT?  I have the answer to this for you.  The idea is to push as hard and as long as you can before you lose your form, need a break, need to modify.  When you do the program again you see if you can beet your max out time and improve!  So, if you are competitive this is the program for you!

Day 1: Was Cardio and I Maxed Out at  8:09.  When I graduated from High School I never thought I would have to do suicides again.  WRONG.  This program has you do suicide BURPEES. Thank goodness my high school field hockey coach did not know anything about this.  They are mini suicides.  You take 4 steps, set up, burpee, get up 4 steps, set up, burpee! Talk about intense.  When I was doing this Shuan T said you're going to want to quit and boy was he right.  But he really inspires you to keep on pushing.  You do about 5 minutes of exercises. You repeat the rounds 3 times.  Then you get a 30 second water break. Which is needed, but don't worry Shaun T is sure to let you know this isn't a coffee break and you have to get right back into it!

Day 2: Tabata Power I maxed out at 6:17.  This workout really works on building your muscles.  It's all a blur (because you work so hard), but the things I do remember are the pushups and the triceps dips!  I know I maxed out before that and I think it was lunge punches --- yes it is exactly how it sounds but jump from lunge to lunge.  Modifying is perfect too! 

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Day 3: AKA TODAY! Sweat.  The name doesn't lie. Yes, I was sweating up a storm. This is a mix between cardio and toning/strength. I maxed out at 9:27 doing squat lunges. My legs were BURNING! I was so exhausted after this 30 minutes.  I seriously wanted to stop while doing it, but then when you are like "ok I seriously can't do anymore" Shaun T is like I know you want to stop but you need to dig deeper and then you feel bad.  Or he says he is tired and he is going to write his name on the board (aka max out) and take breather for a second so you think ok just take breather and get back in! 

NUTRITION! NUTRITION! NUTRITION! NUTRITION! 

Nutrition is KEY! It's not all about working out. Which, I'm great at and the nutrition part is the killer.  This program is awesome.  Much like the 21 Day Fix (for those Autumn Fans out there) this program is based on portion control!  The containers are sold separately from the program. However, Shaun T tells you the correct size (ie. 1/2 cup, 1 cup, 3/4 cup....).  You base your meal planning for the week based of the portions you can have of each type of food: protein, veggies, fruit, carbs, fat, seeds/nuts.  This is a simplified way to make sure you are eating properly! 

The nutrition guide comes with a long list for each category of food.  This makes meal planning that much easier.  NUTRITION SIMPLIFIED. This is so much different from other programs that tell you some recipes and you should limit this food or eat more of that food.  When you read those programs you think... Wait, what am I doing??? This makes it easy.  I promise you it is easy to do.  Do you want to know the secret to success?? MEAL PLAN. It's a pain in the butt. I know. Believe me.  But if you do meal plan you stay on track and don't buy excess food!! 

ARE YOU NEW TO BEACHBODY???

Portion control containers is where it is at! It makes eating right EASY! Your diet is based on NORMAL food -listed in a book (21 Day Fix and Insanity Max 30), but mostly unprocessed foods.  However, both of these programs let you have chocolate and wine! Yes, you're eyes are working properly.  You can have wine and chocolate, BUT in moderation.  It's awesome knowing I don't have to count calories and that I know I need to have more fruit or carbs or veggies in a day. These programs seriously change your relationship with food - that coming from a food lover!

MY COACH SITE

ZOOODLES - Buff Chicken and Turkey Bacon

SPIRALIZED FUN!!!! 

Last week I used my Spiralizer for the first time.  The outcome was not so tasty.  It was actually really bland.  I also made a Jambalaya that was super tasty and used sweet potato rice opposed to real rice.  I decided to try something more flavorful last night!!

Ingredients 
1 Sweet Potato 
2 Zucchinis
2 Carrots 
Plum / Cherry Tomoto
Chopped Onion
Chopped Red Pepper
Minced Garlic
Chicken breasts or tenders (I used 5 tenders)
Turkey Bacon
Buffalo Sauce or Hot Sauce
Cream Cheese   
Chicken Broth
Onion Powder 
Garlic Powder
Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Prep: 
Preheat the oven to 350.  Coat your chicken in hot sauce then sprinkle garlic powder and onion powder on top of your chicken.  Cover your baking dish with tin foil.  This helps keep the chicken moist.  Cook at 350 for 25 minutes.

Wash and cut all your veggies that you are going to Spiralize.  I cut the veggies in half and cut the ends off.  Set aside.  I used frozen chopped onion.  Chop your red pepper and put in pan with olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped onions.  While this is heating up cut the tomatoes in half and place them in the pan. Let this cook for a little while stir as needed.  Spiralize your veggies while this is cooking in the pan.  If it starts to really cook turn the heat down and add some chicken broth.  Don't I used enough to coat the bottom of the pan and then a little more.  I then added the buffalo sauce - this is to taste.  If you want super spicy add more.  I added one spoonful (regular table spoon) of cream cheese and let melt.  

In a pan cook your turkey bacon.  Once it is finished cooking place it on a plate with a paper towel and let cool.  

Add your spiralized veggies to the pan and you may want to add additional chicken broth to help cook the veggies.  I covered my pan with a lid to help keep the moisture in and cook the veggies.  Once the bacon is cooled pull it apart into pieces and add it to the pan.  Additionally, when your chicken is finished cut it into small pieces and add it to the pan.  You can add more buffalo sauce or chicken broth as needed.  Let this all cook together for a few minutes.  Then enjoy! 

Sweat so good!

So I was thinking about my blog name and I realized I think I might be a crazy person.  I seriously have the mind set and have had this mind set for about 10 years that if I'm not super sweaty at the end of a workout then it wasn't a good workout - The Sweatiest Thing (and probably the smelliest).

Growing up I always played sports, so working out wasn't going to the gym, or going for a run, it was going to practice.  I was constantly active and I loved it.........except I hated going to practice why couldn't it all just be games? I digress.  So, when High School was over and my sports ended I had to find a way to stay active!

WHATS A GIRL TO DO?

I knew I could run, I had to run A LOT in Field Hockey and I knew this would help me get in shape. But ehh who REALLY wants to do that at age 18 when you don't have to... so I didn't.  I went away to college and started to put on some lbs.  I would go to the gym every so often and run with a girl who lived on my hall.  I managed to keep the weight off pretty well.  It wasn't until my second year at college that I found the gym.  I joined an off campus gym that had special pricing for students!

I love this gym and I would still go to the gym if this gym was where I live. THEY HAD TV'S IN THE TREADMILLS! It was a huge place with tons of equipment, cardio machines, weights, and free classes! What is not to love.  I would go and watch 2 tv shows and run / walk on the treadmill.  I seriously got in amazing shape! Well minus lifting weights and toning everything.  I was thin and feeling good about myself.  This is when my obsession with being sweaty started.  I didn't feel like my workout was good enough unless my sweat line on my shirt went down from my neck to my bra! OMG who wants that!! THIS GIRL!   This idea has followed me throughout the years.

I worked out throughout college until my senior year when drinking became my number one hobby. I know drinking and going to the bar, what a great hobby! Hey you're only 21 once.  You live... you learn. I wouldn't trade those days for anything now.  However my belly, legs, face, arms, neck, and basically my whole body paid the price.  By that I mean they all gained weight.  Since I wasn't working out and feeling those positive endorphins release on a regular basis I didn't really want to go to the gym, so I didn't!

I tried to lose weight from age 21-26, but I didn't have the right tools.  That's when I started running a lot and saw some progress! It was great, but I needed something more.  That's when I found the 21 day fix! I needed something to help me TONE! Oh and has it ever. Running makes me lose my but and this program helped me gain that booooty back! Once I had been doing this program for a few months I decided I needed another one to have some variety and keep my body guessing! I got the T25 - EVERY WORKOUT I'M A SWEATY MESS (even when my house is 60 degrees).

Doing the Beachbody workouts I'm proud to say that my 25-30 min workout has me sweatier than when I would run 3 miles and walk 2 at the gym!  I LOVE IT!!!

www.beachbodycoach.com/chuckles3515

E&E Energy for your workout

Need that extra drive in your workout?

Shockingly, I've been getting up to work out in the mornings.  If you know me, you will know that I am not one to wake up early.  I usually sleep until the last possible minute, roll out of bed, get dressed, brush my teeth and go to work.

I now get up at 4:45 am.... yes, you heard me correctly AM to workout.  The best thing that I have ever purchased is E&E! It seriously wakes me up and gives me that push I need to complete the morning workouts.  I would highly suggest this product.

I had never taken anything like this before workouts and I must admit it does make a big difference.  I really noticed the difference on the T25 workouts that are fast paced! For those of you who don't know about T25 is it's 25 minute workouts at a high intensity. You are moving and groving... jumping in and out, burpees, high knees, punching... you get the idea.  It took me a long time to get used to workouts like this.  It also helps me when I'm doing the 21 Day Fix Workouts, because sometimes I can be a whiny. "UGHHH I DON'T WANT TO DO THIS" or "I CAN'T DO THIS ANYMORE" or "IS IT OVER YET!".  

If you are finding yourself having trouble pushing through a workout I would definitely recommend this product! Not only does it help me get through one workout, it gives me the energy to do a double work out :) 

What are the ingredients in E&E Energy and Endurance?

It features a proprietary blend of:

• Advanced nitric oxide boosters to help speed more nutrients and oxygen to your muscles for better performance.
• Natural energizers to help increase energy and focus to maximize your workout. 
• Amino acids to help promote muscular energy and overall workout performance.
• Electrolytes to help fight dehydration and support optimal muscle function. 
• Essential B vitamins to promote a strong metabolism to provide energy so you can burn fat. 
• Stevia for natural, zero-calorie sweetness.

Two more reasons E&E Energy and Endurance is unlike other pre-workout drinks It contains:

1. No artificial flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives.
2. No high-risk or untested ingredients.

You can order this product through my website www.beachbodycoach.com/chuckles3515 or you can email me at ashleyfrancisfitness@gmail.com  I'd be happy to talk with you about this product, any other product, or your health and fitness goals!

First Spiralized Meal

SPIRALIZER MY NEW TOY.....


So I made my first spiralized meal with my NEW SPIRALIZER!!! Super exciting.  It's really so neat how it works and you can have the noodles so quickly.  I decided to make a zucchini noodle, with spinach and chicken.  I followed a recipe found on inspiralized.com (great site I highly recommend it).  It was fairly simple, however I decided to grill the chicken outside with some seasoning.  This made a HUGE difference.  


The recipe is to heat some olive oil and garlic in a pan with the chicken (which is cut into chunks). Then you add spinach and zucchini into the pan until they get soft. Add salt and pepper to taste and the juice from half a lemon. Then you add feta cheese.  

I didn't have feta cheese.  The meal was definitely missing something and I was still hungry after. So Mark and I both had chocolate Shakeology with PB2 and a Banana.  Next up is Carrot Rice and Sweet Potato Jambalaya

!

Clean Eating Week 2...

Week 2: Clean Eating

Ok, so I've been slacking on my posts!  I did sooo well last week.  I seriously stuck to the clean eating.  Well, ok, so I did well Tues, Wed, and Thurs.  So, I can definitely do better!  Monday really caught me off guard.  I was all set for a successful week and then my boss took me out for a lunch as I discussed in my last post.  Then I went to my parents for dinner, which wasn't bad for me but the Halloween candy they had sitting out was just calling my name.  Ugh!!

Tues - Thurs I woke up early everyday and did my workout!! I also took my Shakeology, snacks, and lunch to work and stayed on track!  I was feeling SUPER awesome Thursday night :) I was also SUPER excited because Mark decided to start doing the 21 Day Fix workouts!  It's nice knowing he is doing something too.  When he does the workouts it helps motivate me to do better!! 

Friday, I decided to sleep in and skip the workout since I had an event Friday night for work.  It was going to be a long day and an extra hour of sleep would help.  The event was a wine event.  Needless to say I ate and drank more than I needed to.  I seriously paid the price on Saturday.  I had a bagel sandwich for breakfast, then I couldn't really eat until dinner time when I really wanted Chipotle.  I was also "dying" so I couldn't workout.  I think drinking seriously throws you off your game.  ALSO, the older you get the worse your hangover becomes.  How is it possible that when I was in college before my Jr. year I barely got a hangover?! 

Sunday - I woke up and did my workouts first thing in the AM.  I did a double workout T25 Lower Focus because it seriously helps my hip!!  Then I did the 21 day fix Dirty 30!  I felt great, I showered, did laundry, made breakfast, planned my week, made a grocery list!! Then I got sucked into a movie on TV! I had 1.5 hrs to go grocery shopping then we were heading to my parents for my brothers birthday.  Even though I posted in the clean eating group about healthy eating I still got a baked potato at dinner and ate a piece of bread. I seriously just can't stop myself.  I really really need to try harder. I really want to see more changes and I think I will if I practice SOME self control! 

It's like every single week I'm like this is the week.  Then I do something that involves eating our or drinking and it just throws me all off! 

I bought a spiralizer last week, so I'm super excited to give it a try this week.  I already found 3 recipes I want to try! I'm hoping this will help make my dinners less boring!

MUST DO BETTER THIS WEEK!

Pre-Thanksgiving Clean Eating Challenge Group Day 1

Pre-Thanksgiving Clean Eating Day 1

I started a 21 day clean eating challenge group, today is day 1.  Yesterday I was not myself.  This meaning that I woke up and said "I'm going to clean our bathroom."  For those of you who know me cleaning a bathroom and laying in bed watching Netflix are clearly not the same thing.  Anyways, I cleaned the shit out of that bathroom! Made me feel pretty accomplished.  Then I made my meal plan for the week and off to the grocery store we went. Of course I ran into someone I know because it would only happen when I had just cleaned a bathroom and my hair was thrown on the top of my head, and I later realized I hadn't brushed my teeth.  Either way it was nice seeing an old friend from college.  

When we got home I decided I wasn't going to be unhealthy just because it was Sunday.  Also, because I was talking to Mark about the 21 day fix and one of my friends AMAZING results.  He told me "I think you forget about eating right on the weekends."  If that wasn't a smack in the face of reality.  So I made myself a salad.... 

After sitting on the couch for about 30 minutes I just was so antsy.  I vacuumed the whole house, cleaned two more bathrooms, did laundry, cleaned the kitchen, did yoga, made dinner, and prepped ALL of my work meals for the week! Holy cow, I'm tired just typing all of that. 

So, that being said I'm ready for a successful week and I'm excited.  I woke up this morning and did a double workout; Total Body Cardio Fix and Lower Fix from the 21 Day Fix.  I had my Shakeology for breakfast with a banana.  I brought my meal to work and was super excited.  I had my hard boiled eggs and some green tea for a morning snack.  Then my boss called me in his office.  I had turned in my self evaluation for my yearly review Friday afternoon.  He said he wanted to take my to lunch to

discuss my review.  This is what he usually does and we go to amazing restaurants and drink a bottle of wine.  I of course go because you can't really say no.  So now I'm on day 1 failing, but I know now more than ever that I want to stick to these 21 days.  Everyone else in my group will be finished one day before me, but I have to do this for myself.  I know that I can eat healthy for 21 days!  I'm more anxious to see the actual results with my body and my energy level.  It's a mission for me! 

In other news I got an email from Inspiralized and saw a recipe for this: 

http://www.inspiralized.com/2014/03/02/roasted-red-pepper-butternut-squash-noodles-with-chicken/

The struggle is real...

The struggle is real…

Let me start with… I’m starting a FREE 21 day clean eating challenge group on Facebook Nov. 3^rd!

BUT this does not give me an excuse for my eating this weekend…This weekend was tough.  After such a good week I let it all go to crap! I have no one to blame but myself and my own excuses.  Consistency is the key to staying / getting in shape.  I am by no means in the shape I want to be in.

My weaknesses are probably similar to yours.  The weekends and alcohol. 

So, it all started going downhill when I went out to dinner on Friday night.   Everyone deserves a night out with friends don’t get me wrong.  I totally deserved a dinner out.  I got to see my best friend and her husband and had a great time.  Here is where it went wrong.  We went to a BBQ place, so I didn't make the best decisions.  First, I had three beers when I could have easily had one beer and water!  Second, I ordered a two meat platter that comes with two sides and a piece of corn bread! The cornbread is so good.   My side choices were not great either.  They have mac n cheese and I am a sucker for mac n cheese.  So mac n cheese it was and coleslaw, because you obviously can’t have BBQ without coleslaw.

Now this one splurge meal wouldn't have set my whole weekend off, but Saturday we had family over to see our house.  Well, I started the morning right with my workout and Shakeology, but that’s about all I did right.  I made pulled pork overnight in the crock pot because it was an easy way to feed 10 people.  I should have made better side dishes, but I didn’t make the time to do that.  Instead, we bought coleslaw, macaroni salad, and potato salad.  STARCH, STARCH, STARCH! I did have a veggie tray and did munch on that quite a bit.  Oh not to mention, I had 2 beers, which I really didn't need!

I found two recipes on the Beachbody website that I could of made in place of my unhealthy store bought choices for the next time!

*RECIPES*

Bell Pepper and Cabbage Slaw

Total Time: 1 hr. 15 min.
Prep Time: 15 min.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients:
1 medium cabbage, shredded
1 medium green (or yellow) bell pepper, chopped
1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
1 medium red onion, chopped
¼ cup rice wine vinegar
Sea salt and ground black pepper (to taste; optional)

Preparation:
1. Combine cabbage, bell peppers, onion, and vinegar in a large bowl; mix well.
2. Season with salt and pepper if desired.
3. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 93

Fat: 0 g

Saturated Fat: 0 g

Cholesterol: 0 mg

Sodium: 115 mg

Carbohydrate: 21 g

Fiber: 7 g

Sugar: 12 g

Protein: 4 g

http://www.teambeachbody.com/eat-smart/recipe/-/rcp/14846/all/0/5

Veggie Pasta Salad

Total Time: 1 hr. 15 min.
Prep Time: 15 min.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients:
8 oz. whole wheat pasta (like fusilli, rotini, or farfalle)
3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
¾ cup broccoli florets
¾l cup cauliflower florets
1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
1 medium carrot, cut into matchstick-sized pieces
½ medium red bell pepper, cut into matchstick-sized pieces
½ medium green bell pepper, cut into matchstick-sized pieces
½ cup sliced mushrooms
2 medium celery stalks, thinly sliced
Sea salt and ground black pepper (to taste; optional)

Preparation:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain; rinse under cold water. Set aside.
2. Combine oil, vinegar, and garlic in a small bowl; whisk to blend. Set aside.
3. Place pasta in a large serving bowl; add broccoli, cauliflower, onion, carrot, bell peppers, mushrooms, and celery; mix well.
4. Drizzle pasta salad with dressing; toss gently to blend. Season with salt and pepper if desired.
5. Refrigerate, covered, for at least 1 hour.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 222

Fat: 8 g

Saturated Fat: 1 g

Cholesterol: 0 mg

Sodium: 81 mg

Carbohydrate: 34 g

Fiber: 6 g

Sugar: 4 g

Protein: 7 g

http://www.teambeachbody.com/eat-smart/recipe/-/rcp/16078/all/26/5/salad

The day didn't end with that.  After everyone left I went to the hospital to see my grandmother.  She just had surgery on her hip – partial hip replacement.  We were at the hospital for about 4 hours and it was getting late.  We left around 8:30 and we were starving.  So what was the easiest thing to do? Go out to eat.  We went to Outback, and I didn't say no to an appetizer.  Coconut Shrimp, steak, potato, and broccoli all washed down with a Sam Adams Octoberfest and glass of water!

I am rolling my eyes at myself at this point.

Sunday, great no plans today I can get back on track.  I started the day out with some eggs and a piece of toast.  Moving in the right direction.  The weather was beautiful, so we went for a great 3.15 mile walk around the lake by our house.  It was a great start to the day.  After the walk we even went and got pumpkins and mums to put on our front porch! That’s when it went downhill.  I was starving.  Instead of making something with veggies and protein, we had hummus and pita chips and some popcorn chicken.  Instead of making something for dinner we ate left over BBQ.  Oh and I can’t forget the two beers I had while watching football!!!! Where are my fruits and veggies???

Sometimes I wonder why I’m not really seeing great results. It’s because of weekends like this.  I know what I’m doing and I still make these bad decisions.  I’m hoping that by confessing my weaknesses it will make me more accountable to be healthy on the weekends.

One positive thing about Sunday was I made my meal plan for the week and decided to start the 21 Day Fix workouts again.  After doing one on Saturday and feeling sore on Sunday I thought it might be a nice change of routine that I need.  Let’s hope this gets me into high gear!

If you're interested in my FREE clean eating challenge group send me an email at ashleyfrancisfitness@gmail.com

My Story...

My Journey......

I was feeling very inspired today after reading a blog about a weight loss journey a coworker sent to me.   I say journey because it's not over yet.  Losing weight doesn't happen over night and it you can't ever stop working on it.  Well you can work on not losing anymore, but you still need to maintain what you have lost.  The real way to be successful is by changing your lifestyle. 

Here we go...

Summer 2006

As a young child I was told by the doctor at every appointment that I needed to lose weight because I was "overweight"  what does that even mean?  The number on the scale? (Shaking my head).  When I was around 9 I was sent to a nutritionist so I could lose weight. *side note - at this point in my life I was playing outside all the time, swimming year round, and playing softball*  The first thing the nutritionist did was take my body fat index.  I had something like 12% body fat.  (it was around that number - my mom would remember) She told me that I did not need to lose weight and that I should watch what I eat and continue to exercise.

Winter 2008

In middle school I was very self conscious about my body.  I wasn't the skinniest girl in the bunch and in middle school everyone is self conscious.  I couldn't shop at the stores that all the "popular" girls were getting clothes.  I decided to try weight watchers and had little success.  Most likely to do with my love for chips, chocolate, and mashed potatoes. I was still playing tons of sports and was very active. 

High school I had the same perception of my body.  Just not super happy about, but when you are 5'2 and have an arched back so your stomach sticks out and your butt sticks out what are you going to do?  I played field hockey, ran track, played softball year round, and even played ice hockey for a bit. When I was 16 I started working out at the YMCA on top of my sports (mainly in the winter - slow time for me when I stopped indoor track).  That's when I really started noticing results.  I loved it.  I felt good about myself. I went from a size 8 pants to a size 6 - which is shocking because my legs are so muscular I have no idea how I got them over my thighs let alone my huge calf's. 

Fall 2007

College was a wild ride. I'm sure we all had our ups and downs, literally scale going up, scale going down in college!! The scale definitely went up freshman year.  I was barely working out, eating college food, drinking, and stressed.  My sophomore year I joined an off campus gym and started running a ton and working out.  I lost a lot of weight between my sophomore year and junior year! I felt great and looked great!! Then I turned 21 and it all went down hill.  I was drinking more, never working out, and eating horrible food.  I really packed the pounds on and after graduation I didn't want to start working out or changing my habits. 

Thanksgiving 2010

It took me from 2009-2013 to get myself together.  I always had an excuse. I was waitressing for a year and I started working out, but I hurt my knee doing an exercise and went to the doctors.  I then found out I don't have that much cartilage in my knee.  I used that as an excuse.  I went  back to college for my history degree and secondary education certificate.  I was also working a part time office job and told myself I just didn't have time to work out. My other excuses consisted of: oh sure, I'll go to lunch with you! or Yeah, I can go to happy hour!  I'm just too tired from work to workout. 

October 2013

Finally, I started running.  In the fall of 2012 I ran my first 5k!! I finished in roughly 32 minutes.  It was a struggle and my legs were hurting.  Then in April of 2013 I ran my first 10k in 1 hr and 1 min!!  I felt so much better after this run.  At the end of 2012 I weighed my heaviest at about 184 lbs. Hard to admit.  From my 5k to my 10k I was running at least 3 times a week if not more.  I lost about 20 lbs during that time.  I was also stressed and not eating as much.  Which was probably not the healthiest thing for me, but I did force myself to eat during the days.  It was just a considerably smaller amount than I had been eating.  Instead of wings I would get a salad.  Which is a huge step! In the spring of 2013 I hurt my hip playing softball, but refused to acknowledge it.  I continued playing all the sports and running.  I ran my first half marathon Oct 2013 and finished in 2hr and 27 min!! I later found out that the injury was a torn labrum in my hip.  I had to do months of PT.  I wasn't able to run and I knew that something needed to change. 

June 2013

March 2013

I've never been the type of person to do a diet like Jenny Craig, Atkins diet, or a diet where you eat special food.  What happens when you stop eating that food?  What are you supposed to make yourself?  How much are you supposed to eat?  I'm just going to gain all the weight back!  These programs just weren't for me.  They seemed like a quick fix to a problem that would just come back when the programs were over.  That's when I learned about the 21 Day Fix!  It's the first program that really caught my attention.  It combined eating the right portions with workouts!  This program really opened up my eyes to all the things I was eating.  It's amazing the way it changes your relationship with food.  I got a container for all of my food and I used that to measure out what I could eat! It was simple.  I could eat normal food!  It really set me up to be successful.  I used this program for about 4 months and I still follow the nutrition plan.  I have been doing the T25 workouts for a few months now because I needed some variety.  I love working out everyday and eating healthy meals.  It just makes me feel 10 times better!

July 2013

Shakeology has been great.  I NEVER ate breakfast before the 21 Day Fix.  I just did NOT have the time for it.  By that I mean I couldn't pull myself out of bed 10 minutes earlier. Now i make a simple shake on my way out the door and have my healthiest meal on my drive to work!! This shake has really helped me with my energy and cravings.  It's crazy the way it helps with cravings.  I never thought anything would help that!!! 

I'm not finished in the journey of mine.  I am now at 161 lbs and still wanting to tone up and lose a few more lbs!  I want to get back to my healthy weight, but I know it takes time.  I'm willing to put in the time because this has become a lifestyle.  Sure I have my bad days where I want to eat wings, mac n cheese, french fries, chips, and pizza.  But everything is done in moderation.  I wont let one bad day set me back from all the good ones!  After having success before and letting myself go I'm dedicated to not letting myself go back to the self conscious, unhappy, unmotivated, lazy Ashley.

If there's a will there's a way!

If you want more information about any Beachbody programs or if I can help you on your journey please email me at ashleyfrancisfitness@gmail.com or check out my website www.beachbodycoach.com/chuckles3515 

Day 3 - Shakeology Cleanse

Shakeology Cleanse Day 3

I could not be happier that this is the last day of the cleanse!  I just enjoy food way to much to miss out on it any longer. Ok, maybe I am being a DRAMA QUEEN!  It really hasn't been that bad.  I just miss food, not that my salads haven't been wonderful.  Today I added pumpkin puree to my morning Shakeology to help with the stomach issues.

Side note - Pumpkin has many benefits!

1. Low in Calories
2. Helps digestion / diarrhea
3. High in fiber
4. Contains IU for vitamin A - good for your eyes
5. Rich in iron

http://www.livestrong.com/article/469900-what-are-the-health-benefits-of-eating-pumpkin-puree/

I had a banana again as a snack today, and a Shakeology for lunch and afternoon snack. A co-worker bought a lemon at lunch for her water and offered me some slices! HEAVEN! That was just the change I needed today.  It really just made drinking water all day better.  For dinner I had grilled fish salad.  I decided to use romaine lettuce today instead of the spinach to see if that helped with the digestion issues.  Today was a lot harder than the other days.  All I could think about was eating those dang cashews, adding peanut butter to my apple, eating the hummus in my fridge.  


The cleanse actually gave me tons of energy.  Which is surprising since I wasn't eating much.  I actually had enough energy on day 3 to do a T25 workout (Speed 2.0).

Would I do the cleanse again?  Yes, it really wasn't that bad and it was only 3 days!

Total weight loss - 3 lbs

Day 2 Shakeology Cleanse

Shakeology Cleanse Day 2

Today I had more internal struggles than Day 1.  I started the day with Chocolate Shakeology, then had a pear for a snack at lunch.  In the afternoon I REALLY wanted a little bit of cashews, which I have in my desk.  I kept telling myself you can eat a few they aren't that bad for you, but I knew if I did eat them I would be upset with myself for not sticking out the three days.  I'm proud to say that I did not eat the cashews! (I also wanted honey  mustard pretzels pretty badly, not going to lie)  I had 2 more shakes in the afternoon and a few strawberries. 

When I got home I grilled chicken again and made a salad that was sooo good.  I did notice that Day 1 and Day 2 after my salad my stomach was very "bubbly", but I couldn't go to the bathroom.  It might be tmi... sorry I'm not sorry! I'm not sure why, could be from the spinach?

I didn't workout as planned today.  I got home and could only think about eating my salad! I also cleaned my house a bit.  I am really ready to just get back into my normal routine. It makes it a lot easier for me to go to sleep and I have more energy during the day. It's been rough getting up for work in the mornings without working out before!! (Shocking to say).

I've seriously been craving - cashews, hummus, avocado, CHEESE and MORE CHEESE, and a buffalo chicken salad.

What is Shakeology and is it REALLY the healthiest meal of the day?

What is Shakeology and is it REALLY the healthiest meal of the day?

I started my journey with Shakeology in March 2014 thinking hey why not try something new.  I was making other shakes with water, yogurt, fruits, and vegetables.  After only a few days I noticed the difference Shakeology was making.  I didn't have the cravings I usually always have.  I wasn't craving chocolate in the afternoon!!

Shakeology is created with over 70 nutritious ingredients; proteins, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytonutrients, adaptogen herbs, prebiotics, probiotics, fiber, and digestive enzymes!  All in one shake!! 

Proteins, vitamins, and minerals help reduce hunger and food cravings.

Antioxidents and Phytonutrients help detoxify and protect the body

Adaptogen Herbs help increase energy level


Prebiotics, probiotics, fiber, and digestive enzymes help digestion and promote regularity

Shakeology can be used as a meal replacement or a healthy snack.  I tend to drink it for breakfast because I don't like to spend too much time in the morning making breakfast before work.  ALSO who doesn't want to start the day with Chocolate! (or which ever flavor you like).  I usually have it with water and a little bit of almond milk.  However, sometimes when I have some extra time I will make a recipe!

You might say... IT'S TOO EXPENSIVE!!  Then you will stop at Starbucks on your way to work and drop $4-$6 on a cup of coffee.  Shakeology is roughly $4 a day and provides you with all the nutrition you could want in a day.  Since starting Shakeology I have been able to cut back on my vitamins, which means saving money!! 

Shakeology comes in different flavors, Chocolate, Vanilla, Greenberry, and Strawberry (vegan flavors available too)!!

It's easy to take with you.  You can wake up, get ready for work, make a quick shake, and drink it on the way to work!

If you want to try shakeology you can buy a 30 day supply OR sample packets on my website: http://www.shakeology.com/chuckles3515  

Email me at ashleyfrancisfitness@gmail.com