the squish

For 4 years I was a gym rat. During the week I would go straight from work to the gym, where I was committed to my daily weight-lifting and cardio routine. It took me a couple of years, but I had reached a great condition. I liked how I looked - low body fat, great muscle tone. I didn't diet, but I didn't overeat.

Then, almost exactly 2 years ago, I went through some major changes in my life. I was forced to develop a new lifestyle and set of priorities, and hitting the gym every night no longer worked. Going back to school took out two of my weeknights, and I chose a new social life (which I had deprived myself of for years) over weekend workouts.

These choices have taken their toll. I'll never regret going back to school, but I have got to get back on track...reprioritize once again. I have gotten to a place where I am embarrassed to wear sleeveless shirts or skirts. Don't get me wrong - I know that I am not what most people would classify as fat. I am just no longer in the kind of shape that I should be in. My sister defined it well - I feel too "squishy."

I am hereby committing myself to banishing the squish. I no longer have the desire to weight train, though. I am actually very motivated to learn something new: running. I've never been a real runner. I have gotten advice and read up on learning to run in a healthy, effective way. I plan to combine the running with some power yoga to firm up and feel better. The purpose of this journal is to keep track of my progress and stay accountable to myself. Hopefully I will have some tips and insight to share! Wish me luck!