Newest Weight Loss Adventure

::deep breath::

It's no secret to anyone that has been reading my blog for a bit of time that I've been struggling with getting healthy for some time. I've tried a number of different things but nothing seemed to work. What was missing was my motivation. Good news? I think I've found it.

The part that helped the most...I just had a milestone birthday last month - the big 4-0. It was time to get serious and not just talk about it.

So at the beginning of this month - along with half the population - I joined a "local" gym. I say it that way since nothing is really local where I live. It's a good 40 minute drive to the gym. It was worth it though. It's one flat fee that includes all classes (and there are a lot to pick from - including my favorite Zumba) plus a meeting with a trainer to set up a workout program. I'm taking full advantage of it.

I also heard shortly before joining about a "Biggest Winner" competition they host. It's a free 8-week program that gives you full support on your weight loss journey.

They only pick 16 participants - 8 men and 8 women. They get broken in to teams of four. Each week there is a workout with your trainer, any two classes, a group workout, and a workout on your own. You have to commit to five workouts a week. There is also one-on-one nutrition counseling plus a weekly weight loss support group meeting.  And there is even a weekly challenge.

So I applied. And I had a short interview last week. And I found out yesterday...I was chosen.

One thing I assured them in my interview and, it's so very true, while I know this program will help jump-start my weight loss, I was going to do it anyway. I have been going to the gym 4-5 times a week since I joined. I've been taking classes. I have met with a trainer and had my strength workout set up (and used it).

Part of me was tempted not to say anything here, just in case. But then I realized, it doesn't matter. I plan to blog about my successes and even the failures. I'll be in the public eye anyway...the local public access cable channel will be filming the competition.

The kick-off to the competition is on January 30th. I pray all who read support me in this effort. It's time to get healthy.