Keeping the momentum going.

I have had a few hiccups in my regimen, nothing major.  I tweaked one of my abs during a training session, so I had to rest it for a few days.  I didn't go to the gym outside of my session at all last week.  I did do some work at home, however.  I did treadmill workouts, 40 minutes of interval cardio.  I attempted some ab work after a couple of days but it was still hurting, so I just stuck to cardio. I have continued my improved eating habits, and trying to increase my protein intake.  I think between the rest and the improved nutrition, my abs were good to go today.

I have noticed some more results during todays workout.  I was able to hold plank (on my elbows) for 10 seconds, whereas before I could barely make it to 5 seconds.  I was able to lift my legs and keep them raised for "toe touches."  I use quotes because I was nowhere near my toes, more like knee touches, all the same, I was able to lift my legs and keep them in the air long enough to do the reps and sets.  I found squats a bit easier to manage, and my stamina was better.  I still worked up a pretty serious sweat, but I wasn't dying at the end.  My energy level continues to improve.  My belly continues to shrink, and my attitude is much more upbeat.

I did have a brief flare of depression and frustration, but it was very temporary.  Only really messed with me for a day.  I am experiencing some work related frustration, and it has been kind of an ongoing thing, but the doctor said something to me that really struck a nerve.  I know his intentions were good, and I know it wasn't meant as a dig, but it still kind of stung.  I won't get into it into detail, there's no need to do so, but suffice it to say, I am still trying really hard to break into acute care.

I ran into another snag for a couple of days, when I adjusted my activity level from lightly active to active.  It increased my calorie allowance, and I was less hungry through the day, but I gained weight, so I guess I'm not quite there yet.  I put it back to lightly active and have been trying to stay within the calorie goals, and I am losing again.  So far, I've only really lost 2 pounds, and I've been at this for a couple weeks now, but I'm working on it.  My belly is visibly smaller, and I am not having the knee pain that usually comes with climbing stairs and such.  I am feeling pretty good about things today.  I am kinda bummed that I only have one training session left.  I want to buy more, but I have to pay off the ones I have bought first.  :(

I am going back to the gym later with the kiddo because she wants to work out too.  I saved my cardio for later.