OK . I am very excited about the challenge as I have just started and it is just the motivation I need.

But - my weight loss programme is designed to lose 1lb per week (eek!) so to achieve the challenge I need to up my game!

I was just wondering what you will be doing differently(if anything) to win the challenge - I don't want to eat less than my set calories so will have to be creative with the exercise. I cant get to the gym or do classes so in addition to my regular 30 mins cardio exercise I thought I might-

challenge my teenage daughter to Lets Dance session on the Wii (sweat mode lol)
play chase with the dog in the garden
wash my car more often.....(not very appealing!)

So what will you guys be doing differently if anything (maybe some of you don't need to!) perhaps I can borrow some of your ideas.

I actually upped my calories to my BMR. At first didn't lose infact gained but then I started to lose. I hope to get back in my walking routine. Right now I am in the middle of spring cleaning so that is butting a hamper on my workouts. But want to mix up my workouts more. Tring to eat more regularly and spaced more evenly.

I have added more water. Used to drink about a glass a day. I have upped the speed of my walking and do 2 miles in 28 minutes, I work out with Jillian 2x a day and cut the goodies such as irish cream in my coffee. Damn, I wanna do this. Need a friend? Look me up

I'm increasing my activity level and trying stay focused on calories intake. I'm making myself do at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise - even if "just" walking - every day. Every other day, I'm doing a Jillian Michaels DVD or doing interval training.

Actually, I'm enjoying the interval training. Allegedly, it is supposed to help you burn calories post-exercise. I got the pattern from Prevention Magazine's "Sexy Summer Slim Down" (well,here's hoping!). They say you can use this with any regular cardio exercise, like walking, running, eliptical, etc.

It's based off of Rate of Perceived Exertion, or RPE. It's a scale of 1-10.
5-6 slightly breathless but able to speak
7-8 speaking should take more effort, can only say a few words at a time.
For the Cardio Burst, use jumping jacks, walking lunges, and chair squats, alternating among them.

It goes:

* Warm-up: 5 minutes, at RPE 5.

[1 minute of increased speed/intensity at 7-8 RPE
3 minutes of recovery mode at 6 RPE
1 minute of "Cardio Burst" at 6 RPE]

repeat the middle for a total of 4 times.

*Cool-down: 5 minutes, RPE 3-4.

I will readily admit that the cardio burst can be a bit humiliating when I'm walking or jogging outside. I mean, doing chair squats randomly on the sidewalk? You gotta admit that looks funny. But this is all for a reason, and if it's the worst thing a person sees that day, then it's not a bad day for them, I suppose. :noway:

At any rate, I downloaded an "interval timer" app for my phone and programmed it in, so it gives me audio cues. Plus, If I'm feeling enthusiastic, I can up the middle to 6 cycles for a longer workout.

The article is pretty awesome. I think, next time I'm in the office, I'll scan it in so I can post for you guys to look at.

My boyfriend and I bought mountain bikes so we can go riding together. Unfortunately it has rained every day this week lol

I am now doing 2-3 live Zumba classes/week. The other days i will be walking/jogging, or doing Zumba at home. Let's do this!!

The article is pretty awesome. I think, next time I'm in the office, I'll scan it in so I can post for you guys to look at.

That would be appreciated.

Brazilian Butt Lift program Week 2 and lots of walking!

I will be following Chalene Johnson's exercise formula from her book. I've decided to put my trust into her.