"Dear Michelle, Oh boy. I feel sick with guilt and I swear I know now it wasn't the least bit worth it. I was thinking of you the entire time..."
That was how my food diary entry to my personal trainer started on day 8 of my New Year's resolution.
I had just come back from a lovely Thai dinner with my friend where I had dutifully ordered the eggplant and veggie dish, one of the few items on the menu that would suit my diet goals. But when my friend suggested we get the deep-fried banana for dessert, I crumbled. Especially when she reminded me it was "just a fruit."
My New Year's resolution seemed simple when I made it. Stick to a strict Paleo diet for 30 days and see a personal trainer three times a week. (Click here to learn more about about Paleo) I knew Michelle was the right person to kick my butt into shape when she suggested we start on Dec. 28. "Why wait?" she said.
Now, this second week of January is the week where most people who make New Year's resolutions tend to quit their goals and revert back to their old ways.
Considering how I broke down on day 8 of my quest, I decided I would have to do something drastic to make sure I kept up with what I promised. Writing about my goals and publishing them for all to see is one way to embarrass me into staying on task, but when Toronto Mayor Rob Ford and his brother Doug came out and announced their own intentions to lose weight, I knew I had to do more than just talk the talk.
Today, I recommitted to more training sessions with Michelle. "I'm serious about this," I assured her.
To the Fords, you've challenged Toronto to join you in this task. You've got one follower. Let's do this for charity and ourselves.
Over the next few weeks, I will be hosting live online chats with personal trainers and nutrition experts, documenting my struggles and successes, posting nutritious recipes and welcoming any tips from viewers.
Wish me luck!
@SandieBenitah is on Twitter
*Remember, it's important to consult your doctor first before starting a new fitness/health regime.
