Starting the day before the sun rises may seem daunting to some, but for me, it’s the secret to maintaining a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. In this blog, I am going to take you through a typical day in my life, from my early morning cardio sessions to my evening wind-down routine. With a structured schedule that includes exercise, meal preparation, and moments of relaxation, I’ve managed to lose 130 pounds and keep it off for over nine years. Join me as I share practical tips and insights that might inspire you to create a routine that sets you up for success, both physically and mentally. Whether you’re curious about my favorite breakfast options or my go-to workout playlists, there’s something here for everyone looking to embrace a healthier lifestyle.

Early Morning Routine

My journey to maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle starts long before most people are awake. The alarm rings at 4:30 in the morning, and while it might be tempting to hit snooze, I know that this time is crucial for setting the tone for the rest of my day. Waking up early allows me not only to complete my cardio and have a nutritious breakfast but also to savor moments of peace before the hustle begins.

I’ve learned from experience that if I leave my workout for later in the day, the likelihood of skipping it increases manifold. So, I importantly prioritize my cardio first thing during the week. Using my recumbent bike indoors ensures that even when winter makes outdoor walks impossible, I still get my heart pumping. Fifty minutes of cycling helps clear my mind and gives me a sense of accomplishment, which fuels my day ahead.

Preparing for Work

Having finished cardio, I transition seamlessly into preparing for work. An early morning meal is essential, so I make sure to have a nutritious breakfast that powers me through my day. The rituals of getting dressed and ready while vibing to music or thinking about the creative projects I’m working on make this a special time I look forward to. On this particular Tuesday, experimenting with a new Milani eyeshadow palette adds a fun touch to the routine.

Packing a healthy lunch is equally vital. I refuse to leave my nutrition to chance, so I prepare meals that align with my fitness goals.

• Use Ancient Grains Tortillas: They’re a great base for creating low-calorie pizzas.
• Opt for Pasta Sauce: It’s a savvy substitute for pizza sauce and cuts down on expenses.
• Slice Smart: Using meat scissors to cut toppings like ham into fun shapes adds a playful aesthetic.

Evening Routine and Workout

After a day fueled by a productive morning, it’s time to head home and switch gears for my evening routine. Two things keep me excited: creating a delicious, healthy pizza and powering through a vigorous back and bicep workout. Physical transformations have been a huge part of my journey. Losing 130 pounds has taught me resilience and discipline, qualities that I carry into every area of life.

Crafting my low-cal pizza is an evening ritual I love. With the Dempster Ancient Grains tortilla as a base, I layer on toppings like the Great Value garlic and herb pasta sauce, and slices of cheddar cheese, paired with baby carrots. Air frying gives it a perfect crispy finish and makes meal prep incredibly easy.

Evening Workout Routine:

• Rope Cable Pullovers (2 sets of 10 reps): This exercise warms up the back and preps it for more intense activity.
• Dumbbell Rows (30 lbs, 2 sets of 8 reps): Engaging the whole back, these rows are a staple.
• Landmine Rows (45 lbs, 10-12 reps, 2 sets): A compound move that boosts strength.
• Incline Dumbbell Curls (15 lbs, failing at 6 reps, 2 sets): Targeting the biceps, incline curls are designed to maximize muscle activation.
• Dumbbell Curls Against the Wall (15 lbs, 8-10 reps, 2 sets): These curls keep me honest with form.
• Super Set Curls (15 lbs, 6-10 reps): Paired with one-arm dumbbell curls, pushing to failure increases muscle endurance.

Relaxation and Reflection

As the day winds down, it’s time to relax and reflect. I find joy in simple moments, like sipping on a caffeine-free pop or playing video games with my partner, which help me unwind. These moments are key in balancing the structured routine I maintain during the day.

Before bed, playing Bear and Breakfast lets me indulge in a bit of whimsy. And of course, no day is complete without a bit of shared laughter and strategy in Call of Duty. Falling asleep while watching a movie with my partner rounds off the day on a comforting note.

Final Thoughts

This routine goes beyond physical exercise and mindful eating. It’s about creating a lifestyle that’s sustainable, fulfilling, and joyful. For anyone embarking on their journey of transformation, it’s vital to remember that it’s not just about the physical changes. It’s about the strength you build in your heart and mindset, too. Remember, persistence and self-compassion are your best allies in this journey.

Thank you for sharing a day in my life; I hope you found some inspiration to shape your own path.