“Phase two is kicking my butt, but in a good way! The 3 hours in the gym is tough, but wondering what my body will look like after these 6 weeks keeps me going! I am eager to see even more changes, and even more excited about competing. I’ve taken up wearing heels more often to practice my walk haha. The diet portion of training has become much easier. I think I’ve finally forgotten what all good tasting (but bad for you) food tastes like, and fruits, veggies, and whole wheat stuff is delicious! The one thing I really feel I need to focus on is stress management now. I never truly realized how mentally draining training was. Meditation and early morning buddhist inspirational quotes help me evaluate certain things and situations and I feel more at peace, and overall more energized and happier! So if anyone else is training, I would highly suggest what I’m doing because is just as much mental as it is physical.”

Jon has started using creatine along with protein as part of his training regimen. The hardest part about taking the creatine has been maintaining a 64 oz. or greater intake of water. Finding balance between diet, workout, and managing the rigors of daily life is truly a challenge. So far, Jon and Carley have been up to the challenge and surpassed it. More good things to come.

Jennifer is continuing her watch on the diet and nutrition of  Jon and Carley. Jon reported he and Jennifer are discussing the addition of  Creatine to his regiment. Carley is continuing on with her present diet. Both are doing well with their diet and weight is not an issue at this time. Carley did send in some reflections on March 11th regarding the overall experience. Please excuse the delay in entering her comments:

“Phase one is coming to an end!! Finally… I’m so excited to start Phase 2 and really do some work on my body. Reassessments went well, I didn’t lose as much weight as I wanted to but, I lost inches. Beginners can’t be choosers, right? Right! I was also very excited to hear that my calves have pretty much evened out, and same with my thighs. I have noticed significant changes in my abs and upper body. This week has been a little tough though, I’ve  been dragging myself into the gym and barely finishing my workouts because of my being a little under the weather. Hopefully a little rest this weekend and I’ll be 100% for the beginning of Phase 2. All and all I’m anxiously awaiting this competition!”