From Christina: Taking part in the Fit for Fall Challenge was a birthday present to myself. I have been exercising and very active for several years, and journeyed through several “clean eating” seasons. However, I realized that none of what I’ve been doing was sticking, and I really needed some accountability. My goals going in were to commit to the challenge, absorb the knowledge and be transparent about my journey. I knew that if I did those three things, that I would see positive results!
The set-up for the challenge was so great. Instead of listing the “can’t” and “don’t” foods, we had a simple diagram of how to fill your plate with the foods that will fuel your body. The preparation was as flexible as you needed it to be, and that made it much more manageable. However, I did experience the ultimate “fail to plan, plan to fail” several times!
Nutritionally, the most encouraging part of the challenge was that it travelled well! I went on 3 separate vacations during this challenge and felt equipped to make the best choices possible in the middle of deep-fried heaven! Also, I experienced several "failure meals” that would have de-railed me in the past, but because I knew my goals were about educating myself rather than hitting a certain number per day, I was able to wake up the next day ready to start fresh!
I’m so thankful for the team spirit that was shared during this challenge. The encouragement, camaraderie and commiserating were crucial and reflect the group of people that make up CS&F.