Thirty-Day Challenge Final Check-In by Stephanie Nickel

Compass by George Hodan

The end is in sight . . . or is it the beginning?

Truth be told . . .

I walked more than usual over the past month – but not as much as I intended.

I did a few upper body workouts – but those squats and lunges didn’t happen very often.

I cut down significantly on high calorie drinks – but did not increase my water intake as I could have.

I ate less – but there is still much room for improvement in this area.

I tried to keep it real with my accountability partners out in cyberspace – but I didn’t weigh them down with every victory or every “defeat.”

All in all, was this challenge a success?

I’d answer a resounding YES!

And here’s why . . .

• I am well on the way to kicking the habit of eating just because.
• I am determined to set month-by-month fitness goals from here on out.
• I’ve been reminded that success is not a number on the scale or the tag on my clothes.
• I’m more determined to limit my “cheating” without getting hung up on eating my favourite dessert from time to time.
• I will not be driven by guilt, but neither will I justify ongoing procrastination.

The fall is almost upon us.

Here is a quick rundown of my goals for September . . .

1. Prepare a meal plan once a week. This helps me resist the temptation to prepare whatever’s easiest at the end of an exceptionally busy – or lazy – day.

2. Increase my veggie, fruit, and water intake.

3. Prepare at least two new healthy desserts. (I’d aim for one a week, but I want to be realistic.)

4. Walk at least twice per week.

5. Do resistance training three times per week for each major muscle group.

6. Do some form of exercise at least five times per week.

7. Develop new routines for expectant and new moms and seek opportunities to lead classes as I get back on track fulfilling the requirements of the CAPPA Pregnancy Fitness Educator certification.

What are your fitness goals heading into the last third of the year?

Stephanie Nickel, CLD, PTS is a freelance writer and editor, a labour doula, and a personal trainer.

You can read about her eclectic interests and visit her website for more information.