I like infomercials and home shopping networks. Most people just pass by these programs on their way to ‘real TV,’ but something about them sucks me in. I don’t know if it’s because they’re featuring a sweater that can be worn six different ways, or because the countdown clock in the corner of the screen ticks off the number of them already sold, but I find these shows a perfect way to de-stress. I really, really want to believe the products they are selling will improve my life. Especially the ones I didn’t even know I needed. I don’t actually buy the products, but that doesn’t mean I don’t spend a considerable amount of time at CVS standing in the ‘As Seen on TV’ section, caressing all the things I could have.
If you watch anything related to working out, you know all about CIZE, P90X or Team Beachbody— exercise programs that take you from looking like marshmallows stuffed inside workout clothing to a sleek, fit and trim hardbody in 21, 30, 60 or 90 days. The before and after pictures are astounding! I know, I know: a lot can be done with lighting, angles and a good spray tan, but who doesn’t like a story about people winning? So when I noticed that a friend of mine was embarking on a new career as a fitness coach that involved Team Beachbody and was looking for some people to join her first group, I thought, Why not? All I had to lose was some pounds and maybe a few marshmallows around the middle.
So, I signed up with Julie Portman, and the next thing I knew, it was time to get going on the 21 Day Fix. A box arrived that contained everything I needed to make mushy Patty into sleek, fit Patty. It included a protein shake mix called Shakeology, DVDs with 30-minute workouts and containers to measure my food intake. Yes, I was to cut and prep my food ahead of time to make sure I was eating only a certain amount each day. Let me be honest about how it went.
Shakeology. I am not a big protein shake drinker; I like food too much. But as shakes go, this one is not bad. Apparently, in my research (reading People magazine), lots of celebrities are addicted to these shakes!
30-Minute Workouts. Prior to my shoulder injury, I considered myself in decent shape. Hahahaha. I could do these 30-minute workouts, but not without wanting to punch the instructor. She was overly happy and energetic; I was a pool of sweat when I finished, and I ached in places I didn’t know had muscles. The workouts change every day and were the most efficient 30-minute workouts I have ever come across. My muscles were challenged, but I managed to push through. The Facebook Group Julie set up kept me focused; no way was someone else going to get ahead of me.
Food containers. I cut, I chopped, and I filled the refrigerator with good food all bagged and ready to go in perfect portion sizes. Only problem is that my family would steal my perfect portion sizes for themselves. It seems that if you have healthy choices all prepared, people actually will eat them.
So, after 21 days, I lost 4 pounds. Which doesn’t seem like much, but I felt good. If you are interested in trying the 21 Day Fix, contact Julie at julieportmanfit@gmail.com. I need to get back to QVC.
Contact Patty at phannum@townandstyle.com.