What a difference a week makes!
Diet
I didn’t think my cutting diet was working until I took my progress pics. I can really see my muscle…finally. A lot of it has to do with my cutting out gluten. I can’t believe the difference. I’m not retaining as much water. If I was to offer any diet advice, I’d say experiment and see what works for you and what doesn’t. Don’t be so quick to assume carbs are the villain. I tried the V diet and other high protein diets and felt awful. Personally, I need carbs in my diet to thrive…just not all carbs. My current macros are 40/30/30 on off days and 50/25/25 on lifting days.
Since I kicked out gluten:
1. Cravings for carb foods gone completely…even pizza. I don’t even want a cheat meal now!
2. My complexion is clearing up.
3. Evacuation time after meals faster…which also equals faster metabolism!
Training
Four day splits are working well for me. I’m excited that the line in the middle of my pecs is starting to show! Yesterday I worked out my back and bis. I really need to hit it hard and put on some mass. My shoulders are pretty broad already, and I want my back to catch up. I have a chin-up bar here at home and will work on my pull-ups. I can now do seven unassisted chin-ups. Yeah!
Yesterday, I decided to give tabata a whirl. My mistake was using five pound DBs for hip thrusters. They were too heavy, and I only lasted for four sets! I have to say, Tabata is a great challenge, and I want to mix in in with my Hitts. Next time I attempt it, I’m going to use three pounders and build from there.
Diet
I came up with a great Quinoa recipe. I can’t believe how light quinoa is. If I made the same thing with semolina based pasta, I would’ve been bloated after I ate. I’ll post the recipe soon. It was even a hit with my girls.
Yesterday’s Menu
Breakfast
Think Thin meal replacement bar
banana
Post workout
Whey shake
banana
Hour later
Amaranth power pudding
carrots
apple
Dinner
Kefir/whey shake
Steamed broccoli with olive oil
Quinoa casserole
Custard with chocolate chips
Macros
Calories: 1683
Carbs: 50% 192g
Protein: 25% 127g
Fat: 25% 48g
April 23, 2009 at 6:07 am
It seems a bit odd to see someone up the carb intake so much for a cutting diet, but you look really lean so there must be something to it.
April 23, 2009 at 7:16 am
Boy you’re doing great Eleni. Way to go to a fellow 40-something. We have a lot in common (except for those ’80’s leg warmers….). I have 2 awesome daughters & my workouts make a huge positive difference with lower back aches (I have scoliosis). I let myself get out of shape in mid-late 30’s.
BTW: I had bushy hair too in the ’80’s, but the EARLY ’80’s…….I had a big puffy afro (a la the Jackson 5). I’ve got a couple old progress pics…….but not one from the early ’80’s. Don’t want to frighten Bodyspacers.
April 23, 2009 at 7:39 am
Guff: Which is exactly why you shouldn’t listen to anyone who speaks in absolutes. Our bodies are unique, and we need to learn to master our diets as well as our bodies!
Al: Age is but a number! Glad your fitness program is helping your health. It’s the one major thing that keeps me motivated as well.
Good luck,
Eleni