Natalie Jill 4 Week Jump Start - and working towards Stronger

On August 8th I began a new system which included workouts (sort of like I was already doing) and a new food plan. I don't like to use the work diet, instead I would rather say it was a lifestyle change. If you would like more information on her plan, go to nataliejillfitness.com. My biggest focus was what I was eating, so I decided to start this program and see where it took me! I am currently in my 12th week on a program of hers, first with the 4 week jump start and now working towards Stronger! My biggest cuts in food were potatoes, yellow cheese, regular sugar (I use Truvia now), and sweet tea. I know...I know...I usually do unsweet or half and half now. 

Here I am 6 months ago and then again 2 weeks ago. Not too bad...I do work out a lot so I should be in somewhat shape right?! My best transformation is the back of me...WOW! I lost only 7 pounds (weight I did not intend to lose), and 2 in in the dip of my waist, 2 inches in my lower abs, 2 inches in my hips, and 1.5 inches on each thigh! My front got more toned, but my legs lost cellulite! Something I had been told only happened when you breast feed your child! The crazy thing in the behind shots is that I mainly only changed up my diet (eating habits). It is amazing how food can change you that much! Now, I eat 5 times a day, including a protein shake in the morning (I get mine from Young Living as it does not contain fillers and synthetics), then I eat oatmeal and some nuts. For my mid-morning snack I eat nuts, a protein (usually turkey or chicken), and a carb (usually a fruit). I eat a healthy lunch of no processed foods (mostly salad or salmon or chicken), then another afternoon snack to mimic my morning snack and then another non-processed dinner!

Here is another progress picture starting from the left is June, August, September:

Then, here I am at the end of 8 weeks and doing just the 4 week jump start (twice!):

I feel better, stronger, and healthier! My goal is to continue this program, or one like it, to maintain a healthy lifestyle! Because like I say, It's not a diet...it's a lifestyle! I also bought pants in June for a conference, I was excited because they were a 7/8 from one store and 8 from another. Now, those are too big as I am in a 5/6 in the first store and a 6 or 4 (holy cow, yes a 4) from the other! I remember saying in one of my blog posts that I will never be a 4 and that is ok...I still feel that way, but it does feel good to know that I am healthy and fit in this size :)

I have done 39 workouts in the months of August, September, and October so far on this program. Mostly I will run about 1-2.5 miles and then do at least her core workout or incorporate a HIIT workout of my work for 6-15 minutes depending on my time. I make sure to add the core planks (front plank for 30 seconds, left side plank for 30 seconds, and right side plank for 30 seconds) every time and a wall sit for at least 45 seconds...and now I am up to 1 minute! It has helped me to eat better, maintain my workouts, and feel better about myself.  I hope to inspire at least one person to want to feel better about themselves :) Good luck! Here's to the next workout. Until then...