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Faster Way to Fat Loss: A Year in Review

April 20, 2018

Faster Way to Fat Loss Diet and Exercise

Seattle Blogger Faster Way to Fat Loss

Wow!  It’s been hard to believe it’s only been a year since I have completely changed my relationship with diet and exercise?!  In fact, exactly a year ago to the date, I shared (perhaps over shared) with you all the journey I had begun with the Faster Way to Fat Loss program, developed by Amanda Tress.  I don’t believe in coincidences; therefore, I’m writing an update on my progress this past year, including challenges, learnings, and benefits.

First, I am incredibly proud that I have continued to maintain this lifestyle for more than a year.  As you may have read in my previous post, I began the program in February 2017 after feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by my current exercise regime and lack of diligence with my diet.  Frankly, I was over-exercising (running several times a week, in addition to various exercise classes) in an effort to combat my poor eating habits.  I was feeling frustrated by my continued weight gain and how tight my clothes continued to feel but lacked guidance, knowledge, and accountability to make significant changes to my diet.  I signed up for Amanda’s program after a late night social media session, and I could not be happier a year later!

Faster Way to Fat Loss Progressleft: April 2017 | right: April 2018

Be read to see my first post for all the “in’s and out’s” of the program. 

For 6 weeks, I diligently followed the program to the letter.  I had decided that I needed to commit to see if this program would indeed work for me.  I followed up with 2 more 6-week programs, to solidify my new learnings and to join friends as they began to adopt this lifestyle.  Now, I’m using the word lifestyle purposefully here.  I came to understand that this wasn’t a diet (you’ve heard of those crazy diets when you drink only juice or never eat carbs).  I knew that I couldn’t live the rest of my life never chewing, or never drinking, or never eating out.

With that said (and with maintaining this lifestyle in mind), I have taken breaks from following the Faster Way (which includes eating a balanced macronutrient diet – requiring tracking, intermittent fasting, and carb cycling).  My first break was a week when I went to London this past summer.  I must admit that it was freeing not to be entering my food into My Fitness Pal and I even ate breakfast (which I don’t do ordinarily with the 16 hour fast each day).  Most recently, I took a break from tracking and clean eating when on a spring break vacation.  And after a week, I confess that I am eager to get back on track (literally tracking).  I have come to understand that these breaks are key for me to maintain this lifestyle and I have started incorporating them every 6-7 weeks – maybe not an entire week but at least a few days of freedom.

No year in review would be complete without addressing the holidays.  Dread…I fell off the wagon.  I didn’t just take a week off.  I would be good all day and then fall into cocktails, treats, and general bad choices in the evening.  Then I would not post nor share my daily updates with the Facebook group (reminder to read my original post with the ins and outs of the program).  I continued to workout; because I’m confident doing so, but I definitely was not diligent with my eating.  And come January, when I finally had the courage to take stock (which included stepping on the scale – a big “no-no” with the program), I saw the consequences of my lack of will power.  I had regained 7 pounds (nearly half of my original loss)!  I was so discouraged that all of my hard work could be reversed.  But, if I’m honest, I started sliding in early November – so after nearly 8 weeks of poor choices, of course I would experience repercussions.

In January, I stopped the VIP program I had joined and re-enrolled in the first 6 week program of the new year.  I felt that the smaller group would provide me with greater accountability and the set time frame would give me a greater sense of working towards a goal.  I recruited several of my friends to rejoin me as well.  It felt great to be back at on track and, even after just a couple of weeks, I was feeling a lot better.  I had more energy, experienced better sleep, and my clothes began to fit better.  After completing the 6 weeks, I felt back in control and rejoined the VIP membership group.  While the VIP group is larger, the workouts are more challenging and I don’t have the sense of “starting over” each 6 weeks.  4 months later, I feel recommitted, reinvigorated and I’m re-sharing with all of you!

Seattle Blog Faster Way to Fat Loss

Faster Way to Fat Loss Healthier Living

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do I get hungry fasting until noon each day?

Yes, I get hungry around 11:00.  But honestly, I got hungry around 11:00 when I ate breakfast each day!  I believe that your body gets in a routine with regards to eating (it’s proven with sleep as well).  It’s also freeing not to eat breakfast.  I get the kids out the door each morning while drinking coffee, I exercise, get ready, and begin my day without having to take a break for food.  Then, I eat two substantial meals for lunch and dinner.  I’m hungry then and I look forward to, plan and prepare a balanced plate rather than eating what’s available or what I have made for my kids.

Is tracking your food daily difficult?

Once you get the hang of the My Fitness Pal app, it becomes pretty intuitive to track your food.  I’m also a creature of habit, and generally eat the same things during the week.  It’s easy to use when you eat similar things because the app stores what you enter.  The real challenge is guess-timating when I eat out or at an event when I didn’t prepare the food.  But I just do my best to enter the ingredients.  I really do live Amanda’s motto of “Progress not Perfection.”  And yes, tracking food is yet another thing I do in my day but I’ve found that it’s the only way that I stay accountible and mindful of what I am eating.

Are the workouts challenging?

I think that this answer really depends on your level of fitness prior to beginning the program.  The workouts generally take me about an hour (including warm-up and stretching).  There are 5 workouts per week – 2 interval-based cardio workouts and 3 weight-lifting.  Amanda and team offer a beginner, at home and gym workout plan each week.  They are designed with recommendations for each day, but I will vary and move the days based on my schedule for the week.  There are also two rest days that are considered “low macro” days, when you eat 25% fewer calories.  I generally do not workout on those days (and choose them based on my family’s schedule) but hiking, walking, and yoga are also great for these days.

Do I really have to join a Facebook group with strangers?

Yes, you do.  This is one of the reasons that contributed to my success with this program.  As I shared in my previous post, I was totally not into this when I began my first 6 weeks, but it is actually a part of the program that I have come to enjoy the most.  The accountability and support offered by your fellow participants is a major motivation and a key component to making this program work.  I personally enjoyed the connections I made with a group of strangers and I was surprised by just how much we had in common, aside from a commitment to healthier living.

Does it become easier?

It does take time to adjust.  And the program seems overwhelming at first – carb cycling, daily fasting, macronutrients, My Fitness Pal, weight-lifting – they all may be new to you.  They were to me.  This is also one of the benefits of the Facebook group.  You can ask questions.  Amanda and her team are very responsive.  And other participants offer what is working for them.  And, it does become second nature.  Prior to the 6 weeks, you do have a “prep week” to begin to practice and prepare.  I truly believe that it took much of my first 6 week program to get the hang of it all.  And then I followed up with another round to solidify and practice my learnings.

Do I have to give up everything I love?

No! No. Life has to be worth living.  Could I live without ice cream??  Most certainly not.  I still eat cheese (albeit sparingly), enjoy desserts (probably more often than I should), and drink.  For the most part, I eat what I am feeding my family and I’m eating whole foods.  I also have a job that requires entertaining and eating out often and I am still able to do those things and stay on track.  Do I fall into an Easter basket of candy?  I sometimes still do.  I’m still working through my addiction to sugar.  Do I save my treats only for leg day?  Not always.  I’m living that mantra “Progress Not Perfection” and applying it to all aspects of my life.

Are there other benefits aside from weight-loss?

Aside from the confidence that losing weight and being in control of your diet provides, I have found that I am sleeping much more soundly.  I think this is due in part to intermittent fasting.  Studies have shown that your body has time to heal and address other issues when not constantly digesting (it takes the body 12-13 hours to digest your last meal).  I have been fairly healthy this past year, which I also attribute to healthier food choices coupled with fasting.  I am also working on being more mindful with all aspects of my daily life, not just eating.  I make choices throughout my day and making good ones around food empowers me to make other good choices (for example, how I spend my time, how I react to events, and respond to other people).  In general, I feel like I am prioritizing myself and my own well-being in an effort to live a more fulfilled and meaningful, healthy life.

How do I sign up?

The next 6 week program begins April 23rd (yes, Monday).  Here is the link.  Please DM, email or comment with any additional questions.

Thanks for reading!  Happy Friday. ~Jenn

Faster Way to Fat Loss DietFaster Way to Fat Loss Amanda Tress

Comments: 3   //   Category: Lifestyle, Wellness

Share this post:
Each day I’ve intended to post here. I greeted t Each day I’ve intended to post here. I greeted the new year feeling inspired with a renewed intention for my account; to share with you the goodies I love, wear, try. Unfiltered and honest. That’s what I’m here for. But then...2021 arrived feeling much like her older sister, 2020. Instead, I’ve avoided a lot of social media; choosing to tune into various news outlets and into my family. So, HERE WE ARE. A post proving that I got dressed yesterday, wearing some of my new favorites (these @flamingosshoes white boots!) and steady stand-bys (year 2 wearing this @notmondaymercantile beanie on repeat). I took the kids out after school to run a couple of errands and connect with a business I love to support; we made plans for a spring share. Man, it felt good to get out! And now, I’m posting early before I’ve read the morning news. So, it’s happened. 
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Please stay safe, remain respectful, and true to yourself. Social media is a beautiful way to connect, create, and inspire...but can also be a dangerous rabbit hole of misinformation and an opportunity for people to behave in a way they ordinarily wouldn’t in person. Off my soap box. Have a lovely Friday!#wordsfrommyheart #realoutfitgram #flamingosshoes #whiteboots #notmondaymoments
Happy New Year my dear friends! I’ve missed you Happy New Year my dear friends! I’ve missed you all but enjoyed a nice long break. Heading back home after some snow time and I’m feeling re-energized (for now). Isn’t it funny how a change in the calendar can make you feel different? Are you a “new year, new you” kinda gal or more indifferent? I do like a good reset. Even though we’ll be doing more of the same early this year, I’m feeling more optimistic. For now. Cheers to 2021!
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Also, posted in stories a nearly identical photo of us from last January at the top of @schweitzer_mountain. While the photos look the same, it’s fun to think that we now are Sandpoint homeowners! A positive outcome of 2020. #newyearonthemountain #snowbest #schweitzermountain #skifamily
Snow plus a Christmas sweater...I’m checking all Snow plus a Christmas sweater...I’m checking all the boxes this year. Thinking of everyone not able to spend time with loved ones this year. I’m so grateful for our little family but really missing my parents, siblings, nieces and nephews, my in-laws.  Over a year seems far too long to be apart; but we all need to continue to be safe. It matters. #christmassweater #christmas2020 #staysafestayhome #vintagesweater
Let’s make merry! Although holiday traditions ma Let’s make merry! Although holiday traditions may look different this year; we have an opportunity to get creative and share in new experiences. Like the new-to-me homemade marshmallow recipe, @thekirstyfiles and I have the pleasure of bringing to you in partnership with @pacific_place. We encourage you to invite a few pals to a zoom date, pop a bottle of bubbly, and create these delicious confections together. I promise they’re relatively fool proof (I pulled them off!) AND a sugar-high afternoon spent with friends (even virtually) will be sure to get you in the holiday spirit! Tune in to Pacific Place’s IGTV or YouTube to see the full tutorial, including my gaff when my marshmallow began moving into the “hard ball” territory (note: this recipe does require a candy thermometer and the ability to read it!). Cheers to making the most out of holiday 2020! #homemademarshmallows #pacificplaceseattle #craftingtogether
Ooooh...how I love a good shopping day with a frie Ooooh...how I love a good shopping day with a friend. The belly laughs, chit chat, and groans (as we tried on a number of jeans) provided the escape from reality that I needed. Sometimes you don’t realize just how much you miss something until you get to enjoy it again!
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Other things I love? Soft luxury cashmere, designer denim that fits like a glove, and packable hats (yes, packable!). All can be found @willaseattle; a small, women-owned boutique located in the heart of the Queen Anne neighborhood in Seattle. Be sure to check out our stories as @thekirstyfiles and I share holiday-perfect gifts for your sister, mother, girlfriends...yourself! Lucky for Kirsty and I, our husbands also know the lovely owner, Liz (and she has our wishlists on file)! 
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Also very near and dear to my heart, Willa is the epitome of shopping local. The shelves are stocked with unique, small business designs; including many Seattle businesses. When you shop local, you not only support your community but also curate a look all your own!
#shoplocalseattle #seattleboutique #seattlestyle #happytoshare
Continued chronicles of dressing stylishly for you Continued chronicles of dressing stylishly for yourself, aka #stayathomestyle. Sure, 2020 may be the year of the sweatpant (combined with a sleeping bag-like coat, as seen here). And yes, a mask chain is this year’s hottest accessory. BUT I still take care to actually get dressed each day. And while lipstick may no longer be a part of my daily routine (I mean, was it ever??), it’s still important to be pulled together..if only for my own mental health. And even if no one else sees it but the grocery clerk. #whatmamaworemonday #sweatpantsseason 
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PS. Did you know I usually tag everything that I’m wearing? It may not all be current, but DM me if you want more details.
A few days late but still so grateful. We’ve spe A few days late but still so grateful. We’ve spent a lot of quality time as a party of five, braved a few big changes, and (mostly) survived 2020. #dontjinxit #partyoffive #practicegratitude #seattlefamily 
photo: @chelseamacorphotography
On the eve of Black Friday sales bonanza, I hope t On the eve of Black Friday sales bonanza, I hope to inspire, remind, urge, and even beg you to ignore all of the crazy cyber sales that have been creeping into your inbox for the past week and instead SHOP SMALL this holiday season. Yes, perhaps it’s less convenient and even less of a “deal” but this pandemic is putting an even greater strain on the small and local businesses that are the absolute life blood of our communities. And, in addition to supporting an entrepreneur and neighbor, you’ll likely find more creative, individual, and unique gifts for your loved ones by shopping a small business.
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Are you in the Seattle area?  Hit me up with questions about my favorite local haunts and finds. I’ve got so many ideas to share; together we can help blow your holiday giving out of the water this year! #shopsmallthischristmas #supportsmallbusiness #shopsmallseattle #seattlestylist
This sweater is at the top of my wishlist! Come ch This sweater is at the top of my wishlist! Come check out @sskein.co knitwear for yourself and visit with designer @e_for_elisa tomorrow during a private trunk show at Emry Boutique in Madison Valley. Simply dm @shop.emry to schedule your visit (attendees are being staggered for safety). Not in Seattle? Check out Elisa’s amazingly cozy, baby alpaca designs online. These knits are the perfect gifts for your mom, sister, boyfriend...self. Because 2020. They deserve to be snuggled in luxury! (And so do you). #sskein #smallbatch #ethicalfashion #shopsmallseattle

welcome to my blog

Thanks for reading! I began this blog in early 2014 as an outlet to share my styling tips and tricks, and disseminate shopping wisdom. I am honored when readers make a connection; whether it’s learning how to make the latest fashion trend your own or finding the perfect new addition to your wardrobe. Thank you for stopping by and spending a few minutes of your day sharing in my passion for fashion and style! ~Jenn

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