My fitness goals

My fitness goals used to include doing tons of cardio and getting skinny (think Keira Knightley). Now, not so much. Don't get me wrong, I don't think anything is wrong with that body type, just that it isn't my ideal anymore. I want to look fit and strong (think Jessica Biel).

So, I've been lifting heavy weights since September 2014.

Ignore my crazy facial expression. I was excited to lift the big plates for the first time!

I did a ton of reading and decided that weightlifting was the best fit for me. I'm following the Stronglifts 5X5 program for now. I was worried about bulking up, but it seems like that is only going to happen if I eat more than I burn. So, for me that leaves counting calories. I need to slowly lose the fat while building muscle.

It is really challenging getting to the gym. My husband goes to work too early for me to go in the morning, leaving evenings. It is hard to take away time from the family to make this one of my priorities. I usually try and wait until the kids are in bed, but then it takes away time for me and my husband. I have to do this though; I need to be healthy for my family.

Having a gym buddy helps and makes it less intimidating and more fun. The only issue is she has small kids too, so coordinating two schedules is even more challenging.

My goal is to make it to the gym three days a week.

Lifts (lbs):

Squat:        45>>>100
Bench:       45>>>60
OHP:         45>>>50
Rows:        45>>>70
Deadlift      45>>>140