I’m thrilled today to have an opportunity to introduce you to one of my dear Fitbloggin friends, and sharing her fitness journey via my Fabulously On the Move Series.
Monthly, I introduce you guys to a new inspirational blogger that’s MOVING and SHAKING it out there. And, Brooke is most certainly doing just that. Her story of a 172-pound weight loss is one to follow if you’re looking for motivation and proof that it can be done.
I met Brooke in Portland at Fitbloggin in 2013 and have since followed her journey religiously. We losers need to stick together, after all! Without further ado… here’s Brooke’s fitness story.
[pinterest]Hi all! I’m Brooke, 172 pound loser, beer drinker, bikini wearer, wife to Mr. B, and the face behind Brooke: Not On a Diet! I’m excited to be here on NTTC to share some of my ways I work out at home!
I started this journey back in 2009; I was in my early twenties, living on my own, and had a job that didn’t pay much over minimum wage. I was shelling out money for my Weight Watchers membership and I knew adding a membership to a gym was something I couldn’t afford. Exercise is an important factor in getting healthy, so I figured out how to get my sweat on without the gym.
I got outside
Starting at 327 pounds, there wasn’t much I could do, so I started off with walking. I began with walking around the block, along the Mississippi River, and anywhere else I could. Walking is still one of my favorite ways to get in activity and I even walked a half-marathon with my mom last year. Along with walking, I’m also a big fan of riding my bike. Here in the Midwest we are blessed with a beautiful bike paths along the Mississippi and when the weather is nice you can find me out there most weekends.
There are other ways to get your sweat on outside as well. You can run, play a game of kickball, or just chase your little ones at the park.
I bought an extensive collection of DVDs
There is a DVD for almost every type of workout on the market. I know because I own most of them. 😉 Seriously though, there are some great workout DVDs and programs out there. My favorites are from Jillian Michaels, but I know that she isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. I also enjoy Leslie Sansone’s Walk Away the Pounds and you can’t beat TurboFire or PiYo from Chalene Johnson. I like a lot of variety in my DVDs so I don’t get bored and to also be sure I’m working all parts of my body.
I utilize the internet
What did we ever do without Google, Pinterest, and YouTube? Well, we probably didn’t waste so much time, but we’re not talking about that! 😉 The internet is a great source for at home workout ideas! I have found some great ones over on Pinterest and there are some wonderful YouTubers out there who are putting out workouts FOR FREE! I love Jessica Smith TV and Fitness Blender
I have a mini-gym in my home
When I say mini-gym, I don’t mean I have a whole room dedicated to a bunch of machines. Purchase a few small items that are going to help you on your journey. Some things I have are a set of dumbbells, resistance bands, a yoga mat, and my Bowflex MAXTrainer. These are handy for those workouts I mentioned above or for creating some workouts of your own. Most of these items you can find for reasonable prices at big box stores and don’t be afraid to check out Craigslist! People are almost always giving away a piece of equipment for cheap!
See, there are plenty of ways to make your home your own gym! No excuses or a lot of money needed!
What are your tips for getting in exercise without a gym membership?
Want more inspiration from me? Check out my blog, give me a like on Facebook, and a follow over on Instagram! I’m also running a Diet Bet this month, click here to get in on that action!
Want to Read More in this Series?
Motivation Tips for New Runners featuring Lauren from Breathe Deeply and Smile
Learning to Love Spin featuring Ashley from Coffee Cake and Cardio
Conquering 60 Miles for a Cause featuring Alyssa from Double Chin Diary and LaLaLyssa
Yoga for Beginners featuring Jess from Racing to Zen