Well, today began week three of working out at Fitness Together in Milwaukee's third ward.  I had some setbacks last week, which led me to have to cancel my third scheduled workout... and I spent the weekend at a friend's summer home enjoying great grilled food and beer.  Needless to say, I was worried about my muscles wussing out on me today, and my trainer (Stephanie) noticing.

But, to my surprise, I made it through the upper exercises without a problem.  I noticed that I was using heavier weights than last week, and I wasn't struggling to get the last "sets" in.  Yeah, it was still work, but I am beginning to focus in more on the groups of muscles that should be working hard for the certain exercises.

Take chest presses for instances.  I noticed last week when I was doing these presses, my arms would get tired so quickly.  Stephanie told me that I should be letting my chest muscles do all the work, so I refocused my energies, and sure enough.  My arms were less sore when I was finished, but I could feel the "burn" in my chest instead.  I am beginning to see the relationships between the exercises Stephanie is helping me through, and where I am beginning to see and feel the results.

Motivation is another key factor.

I had a fun weekend, but there were (like there always are) some stresses when you get together with a large group of people... and there is drinking involved.  Also, many of the girlfriends I was hanging out with are very very thin.  Since it was so beautiful out, they were all hanging out by the lake in 2-piece swimsuits.  Me, on the other hand, I forgot my swimsuit (just the bottom, even more frustrating than forgetting the whole thing) so I just stuck to the shorts and tank top to enjoy the sun.  Its been a long time since I have felt that self conscious about my body.  But, I had a great way to get over my anger and the frustration the minute my workout began.  With ever push and pull, I put all my anxiety into the exercise.  It felt great!  I feel so much better about my "misunderstandings" from the weekend, and I could move on to enjoying the beautiful day.  Also, I know that with work and dedication, I will feel more comfortable in a swimsuit again (though this pale gal needs to find some self tanner)

So, for the record, no weight loss yet.  No big deal to me.  I am sleeping better than ever, and that is such a bonus.  I am a very light sleeper, so to sleep through the night without going over "alphabetical cities" (this is how I sometimes try to lure myself to sleep) is such a treat.  And, and this is so exciting, I don't get so weary going up three flights of stairs with my arms full of groceries after shopping (hooray!)

I work out again tomorrow, but Fitness Together is closed July 4th and 5th so these hard working folks can get a little vacation in.  I'm telling you readers, get into this place.  Stephanie is really helping me to reach my goals, without putting too much pressure on me to move to the next level.  I am always greeted with a smile, and Ryan even calls me on my cell to make sure I'm still feeling OK with all the new changes (I tell you... how great is that!)  It's a great relationship, and I can't wait (well, I'm a bit scared) to see what kind of agonizing lower body exercises she has in store for tomorrow (yikes!)

Yours...

The Buff Bride (to be!)