Up for the Challenge – Week 2 - Shape Method- Pilates, Barre, Yoga

Up for the Challenge – Week 2

December 16, 2013 Laura Furr

I’m taking part in the Holiday Challenge at Dancers Shape (12 classes in December) and then I’m also going to do the New Year’s Challenge in January. I’m sharing my experience every week on the Dancers Shape blog to share inspiration, and stay focused. Hopefully it’ll help you in knowing you’re not the only one facing the barre fitness challenge!

WEEK 2

I’ve made it another week and I’m still feeling great. This week I’m down 7 lbs!I’m trying to think of a good reward for myself once I hit 10 lbs. Maybe a cute new Splits59 top? Comment if you have a good idea!

This week I went to two Shape classes and Advanced Shape class. I’ve been wearing a heart rate monitor in my classes to see how many calories I burn and in Advanced this week I burned 580 (plus it’s much more enjoyable than the treadmill for an hour!). Jennifer is revamping Advanced for 2014 and she said you should burn closer to 700 calories like Power. I also went running a few times with my Boxer dog Rufus. He’s the best running buddy!

This week my boyfriend & I decorated a Christmas tree, and I was feeling like we were missing something without the typical sweets I associate with this time of year. I decided to make some peppermint meringue cookies, which were a favorite of mine as a kid. Each cookie is only 13 calories so I felt like I could still enjoy a few of them without blowing my otherwise healthy day. Another treat I like that’s relatively low calorie is hot chocolate. I make my own with lowfat milk and it is around 133 calories for a cup. I like these little treats because I feel like I’m still participating in some of my favorite parts of the season while still incorporating my goals.

I have been tracking my calorie intake with an app called LoseIt, which has been really helpful. I never paid much attention to calories before this challenge so I’m really learning a lot of information about portion control and exactly how many calories are in my favorite foods, which should help me maintain my weight loss even after the challenge is complete. I’m hoping to make it to Power class this weekend!

How are you fellow challengers doing this week?

Get signed up for the New Year’s Challenge by emailing us at info@dancersshape.com or calling the studio at 512-382-9150. More info coming soon!

About the Author

Note: Laura is not a doctor or a dietician and this is only a plan for her. If you’re thinking of beginning a new exercise or diet plan, check with a doctor first to get some guidelines on what will work best for you and your goals.

Laura Furr is an Austinite who enjoys fitness, food & fashion. She graduated from the University of Texas Advertising Master’s program and works as a consultant. She loves cooking, exploring Austin & her boxer dog Rufus. She posts about her adventures on her blog ooola-la.tumblr.com.