How Hard Can It Be? Year 2

[five one]

Woo hoo!!! I’ve been working with my new trainer, Shawna, for four weeks now and seriously following her recommended dietary changes. AND IT’S WORKING! In four weeks I’ve lost 5 pounds overall and dropped to 22.5 percent body fat. I’ve actually lost 6 pounds of fat and gained a pound of muscle.

There’s nothing like seeing some results to recharge your batteries and keep you motivated. Veronica

Hi Veronica,

I will most likely never do a tri, but I have been reading your story with interest. Based on photos you have posted of yourself, I think we have a similar build. I've been (half-heartedly) attempting to rid myself of some excess fat in hopes that that will help be become a better climber. Hope springs eternal . I am curious about what your trainer recommended you change in your diet. I have yet to find the right combination for myself. Care to share the wisdom?

Thanks.

[Veronica]

I've really cut the sugar - no soda, no Red Bull, no chocolate. I eat about 1500 calories a day, aiming for 40 grams of fat, 173 grams of carbs and 100 grams of protein. My carbs are mostly coming from multi grain products. I also do a lot of cardio and lift weights - lots and lots of reps.

This is a picture from today.




Veronica

[redrhodie]

It's working! You look amazing!

How do you feel?

[Veronica]

I feel really good.

I haven't been out for a long ride in awhile though and I do wonder how that will feel. My longest cardio sessions have only been two hours or so.

We've just been so busy on the weekends that we haven't been able to get in long rides. Good things busy, so it's ok.

We're tour marshalls for the local Tour de Cure 50 mile ride next weekend. That will be interesting. We'd planned on riding the tandem, but the fork needs to be replaced. It's a super flat route so the tandem would have been cool.

Veronica

[bambu101]

Great job!

I'm curious- Do you find it difficult to meet the 100 grams of protein requirement? And are you less hungry since making these dietary changes?

[kacie tri-ing]

Your pull-ups look awesome! Way to go!

[Veronica]

Yes, the protein is hard. I still haven't quite mastered that part. I'm getting closer though. The hard part for me is balancing out the fat and protein. I like tuna - but with mayo, sort of thing. My trainer keeps suggesting protein shakes, but I'm trying to stick with real food. Egg whites are my friend.

And no, I'm not really any hungrier most days.

Veronica