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FASTer Way to Fat Loss

April 19, 2017

FASTer Way to Fat Loss DietWarning: this post is going to be a personal one.  If you have been reading this blog, or following me on social media, you’ve probably noticed that I try to stick to style and fashion-related posts.  I know that’s what most of you come here for and, quite frankly, that’s the advice I’m most comfortable dispensing.

However, I have made some significant changes to my diet over the past 2 months and many of you have been asking, sooooo…I’m ready (and excited) to share with you the FASTer Way to Fat Loss program that I have been participating in.

FASTer Way to Fat Loss ProgramFirst off, I do not believe that I was fat.  I have been a lifelong athlete; as a runner and ballet dancer, I have done a combination of running, pilates, and strength-training my entire adult life.  To be honest, I probably have relied too much on my athleticism throughout the years; believing that intense workouts would absolve my diet sins.  However, especially as I have gotten older, I have begun to experience injuries, fatigue, and my body was not reacting like it used to to these workouts.  I was getting frustrated; looking for the next exercise class or program that was going to get me back on track.  Since having my last child 5 years ago (I have 3), I have gradually watched the scale creep up.  At first it wasn’t significant but, over the course of 5 years, I was 10 pounds heavier than I was before she was born.

Now, I don’t eat a ton of “junk” per se.  We generally eat whole foods at home and I enjoy good food.  But the cliché is true, I had started eating off the kids’ plates, indulging in more snacks and desserts, and I definitely felt like I deserved that glass of wine with dinner…or after bedtime! And, as I am staring down 40, I had started to notice that my body wasn’t responding the way that it used to.  I could no longer eat most everything without seeing the results of my poor eating habits.  Additionally, my clothes had started feeling a bit more snug and I wasn’t feeling confident.

With this in mind (and with the looming 4-0), I was reading one of my favorite blogs and learned about her experience doing a “boot camp” like diet and exercise program.  I was intrigued and, feeling frustrated in my current situation, signed up without even doing much research!  Seriously, hundreds of times before the program began, I was going to write off the money I committed and back-out.  Who signs up for a virtual diet and exercise program anyway?  Nearly 8 weeks later, I’m here to tell you that it was the best thing I have done for myself in a long while.

FASTer Way to Fat Loss TestimonialFASTer Way to Fat Loss 6 week program

Are you still with me?  Allow me to move on to the details.  The FASTer Way to Fat Loss program was designed by Amanda Tress.  Amanda and her team create Facebook groups connecting clients.  Through Facebook, Amanda provides weekly exercise plans with corresponding dietary guidelines.  The groups serve as a significant motivator and you are expected to check-in daily to maintain accountability.  The encouragement and support of the group (with Amanda checking-in daily) serves as the backbone to this program.

So what is “The FASTer Way”?  In a nutshell, this program combines intermittent fasting and carb cycling paired with varying workouts (both cardio and weight-lifting).  First, intermittent fasting.  Honestly, this is what made me think I was crazy for signing-up for this program.  Amanda provides a lot of information and data on the benefits of fasting.  Intermittent fasting allows the body to go into digestive rest; benefits include better sleep, a healthier immune system, and increased fat loss.  Basically, the program’s goal is for participants to eat 6-8 hours each day, fasting the remaining 16 hours.  For me, I fast until noon (drinking lots of water, coffee, and tea – even green juice without fiber is allowed).  I then eat my calories for the day (still 1750) between the hours of 12-8.  I can shift this depending on what I may have scheduled for the day (for example, an event or eating out that will require me to eat later).

Carb cycling, regular calorie and low calorie days are tied to your weekly workout plans.  It is recommended that you do 2 low carb days in a row which, quite honestly, I find to be the most difficult.  During low carb days you eat less than 50 net carbs (carbohydrates less dietary fiber).  These days correspond with a cardio workout in an effort to deplete your carb storage and burn fat.  Low calorie days are rest days, 2 each week, where you take a break and eat 25% fewer than your recommended caloric intake.  Finally, 3 days a week, Amanda provides weight-lifting exercises and you eat a balanced diet (50% carbs, 30% fat and 20% protein).  On leg day, the most grueling day of the program, you can use your discretionary carbs and fat for a treat.  I usually reserve this day for going out to eat (having a cocktail and/or dessert).

FASTer Way to Fat Loss Lifestyle

What I have enjoyed most about this program is the flexibility it has allowed me to truly make this a lifestyle change.  I alternate my workouts and schedule based on my plans for the week.  I feel prepared and have a plan in place each week that makes me feel in charge of my diet.  And I’ve seen great results!  While several members in my group lost some serious inches, I feel generally more toned and my clothes are fitting again.  I didn’t lose any inches bur I did get on the scale at the end of the program (a serious “no-no” during the 6 weeks) and discovered that I had lost 9 pounds.

FASTer Way to Fat Loss Before and AfterThese are my ‘Before & After’ shots.  You don’t have to share with the group, but it is recommended that you take a ‘before’ shot.  Because I didn’t experience a significant change, these photos really helped me see a solid difference.

I’ve signed up for the next 6-week program beginning on April 24th.  I’m hoping that round 2 will solidify my new eating habits and continue to challenge me to continue to improve.  You can join me by signing up today…there are only a few spots left!  Please feel free to leave a comment with any questions or send me an email directly.  I’m happy to answer questions or provide more details.  Truly, I wouldn’t be sharing if I wasn’t so pleased with the progress I have made and how great I have been feeling.

Thanks for reading! ~Jenn

 

Comments: 6   //   Category: Lifestyle, Wellness, What I'm Lovin

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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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