2019 marks the third year Fitbody Fitness has started off the new year with a fitness/eating regimen challenge. The 6-week challenge incorporates a combination of exercise and healthy eating to achieve consistent results with better fitness and lower body fat levels.
First, a brief description of this program, which we call the “LBD” (little black dress) challenge: In the 42 days, participants are assigned customized workouts based on their needs as well as their abilities. They must be able to complete three workouts per week at the Fitbody Fitness studio and commit to at least two more days of activity on their own, such as running, rowing, hiking, etc. One of the major components of the program, however, is FOOD. We have participants on a diet regimen that includes real but healthy components with lots of protein thrown in. We cover so much nutrition that it’s impossible not to find something that works. As for accountability, I hold my LBD challengers to a higher standard than they usually hold for themselves, since the entire focus is on getting results.
At the beginning of the challenge, each participant recorded their goals. We supplemented our efforts with daily affirmations and positive self-talk. My hope is that these new habits are put into place to enable the participants to embrace a healthier lifestyle — not temporary goals met simply to fit into a wedding dress or to look good for an upcoming vacation. It’s all about feeling good while discovering the benefits of clean eating and exercise that can contribute to a healthier life style.
It’s hard to know what truly motivates people when they embark on a challenge like this, so each time I try to change things up. Incentives along the way kept everyone motivated and interested. This year I increased the number of participants from 12 to 16, and I think I’ve finally hit the perfect number. We also held a dinner when the challenge ended so everyone could talk about their achievements, bond, and celebrate. The most rewarding outcome for me was to hear some of my clients tell me how good they felt and how their stomachs felt better, their energy increased and their depression had lifted. The group lost a total of 119 lbs. and 110 inches.
In retrospect, a few participants focused more on the on the numbers than the positive changes in lifestyle, self discipline, and healthy choices. Hopefully, however, what they learned will begin to sink in and make a lifestyle difference, since the real gains are changes are in eliminating self-defeating habits. The result? The LBD challengers experienced amazing transformations inside and out. Even my mom thought so (last photo).
