tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74124346549392537802024-03-10T22:23:08.149-05:00Beauty in MusclesSharing my journey in the Figure Competition world and showing everyone that there is true beauty in muscles.Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.comBlogger368125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-33776106121992461992021-04-28T12:46:00.000-05:002021-04-28T12:46:07.799-05:00Building and Improving My Mental Health<p><span style="font-family: verdana;">These past couple of months I have been working to find my new normal with training and life in general.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">For me the most difficult part has been not being able to train like I was and stopping my cutting process mid cut so suddenly. I have said before that bodybuilding is just as tough mentally as it is physically. When you watch your body transform into the lean, muscular physique required for stage it is incredible and yes you feel pretty damn good. Stage lean is not something that is maintainable or healthy but all the hard work to get there sure makes you appreciate it so much.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Reversing back to a normal body state usually takes time. Watching your body lose the leanness and adding back on that needed body fat can be such a mind fuck! No matter how long I do this sport or how many competitions I do it doesn't seem to get any easier.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">In the past couple of months I have put back on the weight I lost while cutting and the body fat has come back as well. The first three weeks when I couldn't workout at all I didn't track my food much. As a bodybuilder I knew that not tracking and eating like I was would cause me to gain back the weight and bodyfat faster but that is the road I chose.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">As the body fat came back I have to admit that I was thrilled to get my butt back along with some fuller boobs. For me personally my boobs and my butt are what I tend to lose first and to see them fuller again does make me feel good. I'm a bit thicker around the middle, my clothes are fitting a bit tighter and I miss the definition in my arms.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCTHmpjaUUJ6C1sf1BdJyZcRhgXAJaOPCEeDnseM5Z7fTeHUMJxOE66dl8nB4B3jVxh4bOtk7wJG_sCF2Nf99J4Fsml6lFLk5tG6byNQbQMLbff7Ior9-U6_w5Pj5s_NnPkwaCd8z7gU0/s2048/IMG_4338%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCTHmpjaUUJ6C1sf1BdJyZcRhgXAJaOPCEeDnseM5Z7fTeHUMJxOE66dl8nB4B3jVxh4bOtk7wJG_sCF2Nf99J4Fsml6lFLk5tG6byNQbQMLbff7Ior9-U6_w5Pj5s_NnPkwaCd8z7gU0/s320/IMG_4338%255B1%255D.JPG" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">These things may sound a bit silly but when you find yourself feeling happy and confident in your own skin it's hard to lose some of that, and I have lost some of that. The good part is that I can acknowledge it and I know what to do to get back my happy and confidence within myself. You can hear praise from other people, even those you love and adore so much but it comes down to how you feel about yourself.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">These next few weeks I will be refocusing on my goals, adding in some cardio and trying to add some more intensity to my workouts. The hard part is not truly knowing my limits right now. My left leg is still giving me some issues and I am truly grateful that is only my left leg I am having problems with!<br /><br />Through all of this I had started to notice that I just wasn't feeling like myself. I felt almost like I was walking around in a "fog". It would take real thought to get myself to focus on things, my exhaustion was horrible and I just didn't feel at all like "me". <br /><br />I have been on antianxiety and antidepression medication for a very long time. These medications certainly helped me through many hardships in life but something has felt different. When I was in the hospital my meds got a bit messed up so I wasn't on them for over a week and I felt pretty good. Once I started them up again I went into this strange fog.<br /><br />After talking with my doctor we decided that it would be a good idea for me to stop taking the medication and see how I do. My life has changed drastically, I still have so many stressors like everyone else but life overall has changed. Through so much hard work over the past year with therapy and finding what works for me my mindset has changed from a negative one to a very positive one. I am surrounded by like minded people with positive spirits who provide so much love and support. What a difference it makes in life when you find your positivity and find the courage to remove the negatives from your life. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">As each day passes no longer taking the medication I was on life has become so much clearer. I no longer feel like I am in a fog and actually feel like I have better control over my emotions. It was a scary step to make such a big change but I can see clearly that I needed it.<br /><br />Now back to the business of building some more muscle mass before competing next year. I have found that my left leg can handle machine weight lifting pretty well, it's the barbell work it doesn't like anymore, dang it!!! At least I hit my 300lb deadlift before Transverse Myelitis, that was just meant to be.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzvtDDnduriy0wpe2X_eawufHq_5xvlww1TQJQ5on9LiR1ISO35L0Isi3yuNs_GFR0XsJkJBWb-gnx9g-5Ndg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><br />My next appointment with my neurologist is in May and I am more than ready for it. The improvements over these last couple of months have been awesome and I realize my left leg may be in this "sleepy" state forever. But I can still walk, I can still lift and I can even play sand volleyball, life is good and I am so damn grateful.<br /></span><p></p>Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-71157667913800149252021-02-16T08:33:00.000-06:002021-02-16T08:33:00.896-06:00Sometimes Life Changes In An Instant<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHedUHa_RQs-8oBSElYk6Ikcgh8L0hFMWDETaJ446fIbp3t2VQyHFoMyVg6GRZD3KJTAGfjwGCA7GqyuHg3KA_xqCtiv-xcDWKevqtmZoSY2hrfP1vhLaJg13TIccXl6w_wfPMmIgpZsc/s900/IMG_4201%255B1%255D.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHedUHa_RQs-8oBSElYk6Ikcgh8L0hFMWDETaJ446fIbp3t2VQyHFoMyVg6GRZD3KJTAGfjwGCA7GqyuHg3KA_xqCtiv-xcDWKevqtmZoSY2hrfP1vhLaJg13TIccXl6w_wfPMmIgpZsc/s320/IMG_4201%255B1%255D.PNG" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Over the past year I have had so many life changes that seemed to happen so suddenly and most of the time I honestly have not done well with controlling how I respond. It is the most difficult changes that I have allowed myself to lose control over how I respond.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I have also spent the past year in therapy, finding my balance with self help and self love through mediation, amazing books, sage cleanses, tarot readings and crystals. It has helped me find my happy place with myself, my true love for myself. But I still falter like any other human being. </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">So many changes have been challenging and at times have felt like mountains far too massive for me to climb over and yet I find myself on the other side. I find myself more confident, more joyful for crying my eyes out and finding my way to release things that no longer serve me. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWh5yaD5ofbiIoMz3iiRdOnyQVQjc4CzzUb524IvcFuX0kAgpJTIJORZfe6JbufRE5zvNW2fjqoIHOUZ6FOcSchfAQ0B2Jceo4sGmlMC4ofQfX15yw9LuHKozlPV94YtAbWvBNOWlaMEY/s886/IMG_4177%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="886" data-original-width="705" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWh5yaD5ofbiIoMz3iiRdOnyQVQjc4CzzUb524IvcFuX0kAgpJTIJORZfe6JbufRE5zvNW2fjqoIHOUZ6FOcSchfAQ0B2Jceo4sGmlMC4ofQfX15yw9LuHKozlPV94YtAbWvBNOWlaMEY/s320/IMG_4177%255B1%255D.JPG" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Not long ago I made the difficult decision to change coaches. When I started this journey for my prep I told myself that I would be true to myself and not allow myself to be in any situation that caused me to feel off in any way, especially emotionally. The mental side of this sport is just as important as the physical side. I had to come to terms with my true feelings and that was damn hard to do. Knowing I had the support of an incredible coach who sponsored me before for my last competition helped me make the decision I knew needed to be made. I am now a <a href="https://www.gps-coaching.net/">GPS Coaching</a> athlete with Chris Goodman. A coach I have worked with before who knows me well and was happy to take me back under her wing.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I will forever be learning better ways to control how I respond because there are some situations that I have no control over at all. It can be incredibly frustrating when life decides to throw a massive boulder on your current path. Ironically almost one year ago I made the decision to stop cutting for a competition to focus on my health. I find myself in that exact situation once again.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">On Thursday, February 4th, I found myself feeling quite off. I attempted a workout and when I went to trap bar deadlift 205#, a pull I could usually do 10 reps of easily, but I couldn't pick it up. I could barely do six reps of 135# and I knew something was wrong. As the day went on I had the most severe body aches and my temperature climbed to just over 102°. The next day I had COVID-19 rapid test done and the results were negative, I thought it was the flu and decided to wait it out. By the time Sunday came my temperature hit 103.4° and my newest symptom was that my glutes and pelvis became numb. I literally could not feel my butt cheeks and when I went to the bathroom I could not feel myself having a bowel movement.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">So I decided to go to a walk in clinic where they tested me for the flu, strep, respiratory panel and another COVID-19 test. The COVID-19 test somehow never was reported but all the other tests came back negative. I was super frustrated and had no idea what the heck was going on. That night I woke up multiple times in pools of sweat and hoped that meant the fever was breaking.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi317k1WILMAWENVnGlRs2r71gnoS4zzGijSvS1hcQnMicgHUEhE4VR68w4uvuSLfhh6J5LrwlmoYVxnnoRa3YcQNYtCrLZcUwngdCQfrxfoy0DhgCTXtZ0piGc0OXBg9Fx-zU_NE5uPa4/s2048/LPCY2364%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi317k1WILMAWENVnGlRs2r71gnoS4zzGijSvS1hcQnMicgHUEhE4VR68w4uvuSLfhh6J5LrwlmoYVxnnoRa3YcQNYtCrLZcUwngdCQfrxfoy0DhgCTXtZ0piGc0OXBg9Fx-zU_NE5uPa4/s320/LPCY2364%255B1%255D.JPG" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Through all of this thankfully Bella had no symptoms and she was isolating in her room while I was isolating in mine. She was so incredibly helpful and so were my family and friends. Bringing us anything we needed and hanging it on our door.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">When I got up Monday I was sad to see my temperature was still high. At this point I was debating going to the ER. That night my left leg went numb and I knew I couldn't keep waiting this out. A very special person that has come into my life took me to the ER at 10pm and stayed with me the entire time, I was grateful for that, thank you Dustin you are an angel. Having that unconditional support with me when I couldn't have that due to COVID last year for my blood transfusions and hysterectomy, it just made such a difference.<br /><br />The St. Luke's ER is incredible, they had me in a room immediately and got started on trying to figure this out. They did a full blood panel, another COVID-19 test and decided on a full spinal MRI due to the numbing issue I was having in lower extremities. I don't do well with MRI's as I am extremely claustrophobic but they were able to give me something to help me relax and I had a two hour experience that was awful. My temperature was 102.8° and my entire body was in so much pain. Thankfully I did sleep through some of it but man the last 45 minutes were rough.<br /><br />When I got back to the ER room I was worse off than before just from being overheated and feeling dehydrated. I got some good meds at this point that helped me truly relax and feel a bit better. The doctor came in with my results and he was surprised. My T6-T7 in my spine had major inflammation which favored <a href="https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Transverse-Myelitis-Fact-Sheet">transverse myelitis</a>. The doctor was honest that he didn't know anything about the condition because it is so rare. He knew I needed to be admitted immediately and to see a neurologist. I must admit in our initial conversation he led me to believe it was something that would take away my ability to continue bodybuilding and I was heartbroken. Having Dustin there to literally hold my hand as I cried hearing all of this was something I didn't realize I would need that night and I am forever grateful I had that.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">They got me transferred to a room in the hospital and all settled. It was 3:30am and visiting hours were over so I found myself alone. The doctor who came to speak to me was incredible. He had done research after finding out what I had before he came to speak with me. When he told me I would certainly continue bodybuilding and get that pro card I just needed to adjust my timeline, I cried again. He talked with me for a while and continued to reassure me that this was something I just needed to recover from, have a plan for that recovery and slowly get back to where I was before all of this.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">According to the <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/transverse-myelitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354726#:~:text=Transverse%20myelitis%20is%20an%20inflammation,nerves%20send%20throughout%20the%20body.">Mayo Clinic</a> viral, bacterial and fungal infections affecting the spinal cord may cause transverse myelitis. In most cases, the inflammatory disorder appears after recovery from the infection.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The frustrating part is still not knowing what virus I have had that caused this. Never could I have imaged something like this happening. I have never been so sick in my entire life and then to have this disease due to that virus, well it just blows my mind. I allowed myself tears, I allowed myself anger at once again stepping away from a major goal that I am determined to achieve, for now.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEislZ5FIEWTc-e-uMzjuk4vqxYCLmn4XXrOU2iqlqVCZaIgTsGMJBYLSdeR1L7grQL5Bpc7gRzKklqSzFnOc1Mha4NT5d4vQXKItTLLk75EFmjC1JixBNga2-Gz-YuPfEJZA_CVQB9IJzE/s2048/IMG_4226%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEislZ5FIEWTc-e-uMzjuk4vqxYCLmn4XXrOU2iqlqVCZaIgTsGMJBYLSdeR1L7grQL5Bpc7gRzKklqSzFnOc1Mha4NT5d4vQXKItTLLk75EFmjC1JixBNga2-Gz-YuPfEJZA_CVQB9IJzE/s320/IMG_4226%255B1%255D.JPG" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">My care plan has consisted of high doses of steroid via IV along with antibiotics. On Wednesday the neurologist I was seeing ordered a brain MRI to rule out MS, which I was happy to do just to get that off the list of possibilities. The MRI went just fine and thankfully everything was clear, I do not have MS!!! Thursday a different neurologist was on call, Dr. Peterson. He was the neurologist I initially thought I was going to see and I just adore him. We discussed my case at length and he advised doing a spinal tap and I agreed. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">On Friday afternoon I had my spinal tap, I was scared at first but he made me so relaxed and talked me through every step. The worst part was honestly the numbing shot he gave me that felt like a bee sting, the actual procedure wasn't bad at all. There was was infection in the spinal fluid though but again we know I do not have MS or any other disease thankfully! Dr. Peterson was hoping I would have more progress with the steroid though so he decided to add in <a href="https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/immunoglobulin-therapy#1">IVIg therapy</a>. This therapy is used to help people with weakened immune systems to fight off infections. IVIg gives you antibodies that your body is not making on its own so you can fight infections.<br /><br />Saturday, February 13th I could finally feel my right glute, progress! I had hoped to go home Sunday but they needed to keep me through Monday to finish the IVIg treatments. Sunday was Valentine's Day, what an interesting way to spend it but it is one I will certainly never forget. Monday we had my plan all set up, Dr. Peterson was having me go home and I would continue my IV treatments there for 14 days. I was honest with him that mentally I was getting to my breaking point, I needed to go home and be in my own space with Bella and Hurley. He completely agreed and I am grateful to say I was discharged yesterday and am finally resting at home.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">They put in a <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/picc-line/about/pac-20468748">PICC line</a> which is a long, thin tube that's inserted through a vein in your arm and passed through to the larger veins near your heart. Now we all know my body is stubborn so of course the procedure wasn't simple. They first went with my right arm, gave me shots of lidocaine and began. Apparently I have quite a few nerve bundles around my veins in my right bicep and every time she hit one it would send an electrical shock through my arm. At one point my <a href="https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/atrial-fibrillation/postural-orthostatic-tachycardia">POTS</a> kicked in and I was on the verge of fainting. They stopped the procedure and decided to try my left arm. It took two minutes and the PICC line was in, so much better! <br /><br /></span><span style="font-family: verdana;">I do IV treatments every eight hours which I administer myself through the PICC line and will do this for 14 days. I lost six pounds while I was in the hospital and my body feels very weak. Thankfully I am mobile but it's strange with my left leg feeling constantly asleep. They have no idea how long my recovery will be it could be weeks to months. Each day I will be excited at any progress like finally feeling at least my right glute.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">As with most things in life I have no idea why this happened to me. I strongly believe in the power of the Universe and I am not questioning but rather I know my timeline needed adjusted for some reason.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioyEW0prn7p3z5gtSR7U-vYQgx0x7qQYb780eAO9WPNaEKFnmJEOem0f3_kXNSOzldLf_tEqW_LOlB1mYiQ34sNCiBr8oNPoguFMmaalGZn0o0jKPY2p4lYbkOULloI-ctRbiySV6jQkQ/s600/krystal-gordon-quote-The-universe-has-your-back-she-is-just-waiting-for-you-to-truly-believe-you-deserve-it-and-take-action-600x600.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioyEW0prn7p3z5gtSR7U-vYQgx0x7qQYb780eAO9WPNaEKFnmJEOem0f3_kXNSOzldLf_tEqW_LOlB1mYiQ34sNCiBr8oNPoguFMmaalGZn0o0jKPY2p4lYbkOULloI-ctRbiySV6jQkQ/s320/krystal-gordon-quote-The-universe-has-your-back-she-is-just-waiting-for-you-to-truly-believe-you-deserve-it-and-take-action-600x600.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">I am truly grateful for the entire staff at St Luke's, again my experience there was nothing but incredible. The nurses, doctors, specialists, techs and more have all been so kind and caring. We have laughed at some moments, an attempt to put an IV in my right arm, which is the one I had blood transfusions in, and it couldn't go through my skin but rather bent the damn needle! I can't thank them all enough for all of their care and kindness.<br /><br />You better believe I will be back to doing what I love and lifting heavy shit, ok probably a bit lighter shit to start but you know what I mean, when I can! This has been yet another bump in the road of my journey but I am going to crush my goal and hit that stage more ready than ever before!<br /><br />Thank you to my family, my sweet Bella has been amazing through all of this taking care of things at home with some help and loving on the animals. My parents who have been here when they can be and are constantly checking in along with my beautiful YaYa's, my siblings and so many amazing friends. Thank you to Dustin, a truly special, one of a kind man who surprises me every day with his support and encouragement, doing anything and everything he can to put a smile on my face and remind me of the strong woman that I am. The Universe has provided me with the most fierce tribe and I love each and every one of you with all of me!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">My situation could have been even worse, I am grateful to be able to heal and fully recover. </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">I got this and my comeback will be epic, I believe in myself and know that I can get through anything.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihI7hmcB-aaq7IYQ0gQ9hDiWu7MZfsJXT_oMG3u7X8ZG0jtCcu_sr-n5ebcArJFbiGj1inTCZb-TGzTjZ9gicEe6o6FyppORuqMR2XMYCAf1pu-qmi_iV8hcNdDRgKXXdKAHPErim0RgE/s2048/IMG_4072%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihI7hmcB-aaq7IYQ0gQ9hDiWu7MZfsJXT_oMG3u7X8ZG0jtCcu_sr-n5ebcArJFbiGj1inTCZb-TGzTjZ9gicEe6o6FyppORuqMR2XMYCAf1pu-qmi_iV8hcNdDRgKXXdKAHPErim0RgE/s320/IMG_4072%255B1%255D.JPG" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgme_-ZztsM25JpaTWg6daMJeQ0Ees1t9x8K8g8UMpAWsNOnGnnk1qJTg8u2nO1pWCT5C4bxgCmOSlcaB2LE4IXFKjhblNJjBn_P3HjoeTp2akvkJhEHUm_eRlbRxYkbD4C_vYFOvCo59Q/s651/IMG_4200%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="651" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgme_-ZztsM25JpaTWg6daMJeQ0Ees1t9x8K8g8UMpAWsNOnGnnk1qJTg8u2nO1pWCT5C4bxgCmOSlcaB2LE4IXFKjhblNJjBn_P3HjoeTp2akvkJhEHUm_eRlbRxYkbD4C_vYFOvCo59Q/w315-h320/IMG_4200%255B1%255D.JPG" width="315" /></a><br /></div></span></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p>Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-2655733787887014582021-01-01T20:07:00.000-06:002021-01-01T20:11:47.436-06:00Cutting and the Holidays<p><span style="font-family: verdana;">When I chose the competition I did, knowing how long of a cut we were planning on, it meant I would start my cut right before Christmas. It may sound horrible to do such a thing but when you are starting off in a great place with calories and nutrition the first few weeks really aren't too bad.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">My calories were cut down a bit and the biggest challenge was beginning carb cycling. I was eating over 200g of carbs a day and my carbs were dropped to 104g on high days and 83g on low days. It is very easy to get that many carbs in per day and can happen quickly.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh83ur44Yu2DnzsFQIwwi3ziMXbKGzH51hebuLb9ntfRdquqLROH6QOL42RXpZ1LR1mHctaNFBaAHsV9oD-bDIgRqio-UJfZj_RZqw91-P0e-cLyU4tQGthCixjcweQCYhI68tYbuaXnsI/s236/carbs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="236" data-original-width="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh83ur44Yu2DnzsFQIwwi3ziMXbKGzH51hebuLb9ntfRdquqLROH6QOL42RXpZ1LR1mHctaNFBaAHsV9oD-bDIgRqio-UJfZj_RZqw91-P0e-cLyU4tQGthCixjcweQCYhI68tYbuaXnsI/s0/carbs.jpg" /></a></div><p><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">There are many tips and tricks when it comes to going through a cut for competition. The best one I can give is to focus on your protein first, I pre log my protein nearly every night for the next day, especially on days like Christmas. I did get to have some freedom on Christmas, with so much time before competition and where I am starting at this cut. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I made sure I hit my protein number on Christmas and had my special treats picked out for the day. The first time I cut for competition let me tell you, it was different. I had such a hard time because I chose to cut out everything I loved and went pretty extreme with my nutrition, it was more of the "bro" bodybuilding approach and I absolutely hated it. Chicken, broccoli, some rice, not much variety because at the time I believed it was the "way" to cut down.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Thankfully over the years Kyle and I have both learned so much about competition prep from different coaches and changing approaches. A carb is a carb, it can come from broccoli or rice or Sour Patch Kids or wine, whatever I choose! That is how you go through a cut successfully, you do not have to cut out everything you love and make the experience miserable. I LOVE our approach and I allow myself treats that feed not only my body but also my soul.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">As always, proof is in the pictures. These photos show my 2nd week of prep at the end of 2019 and my current 2nd week of prep. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibK5Ww8NtF2T7fRYxA9EzVO_fTVDZAinoKrdWTnGprmoJRQG9bqdHHFQt6EBuOiSV5rOtX_gAfCDcvi4VJRQpV0lAeIfF1KO2kHwThb2TTEobtjZ111gu2i2u1FDR6Tma2_GYvykTeA8I/s2048/IMG_3222%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibK5Ww8NtF2T7fRYxA9EzVO_fTVDZAinoKrdWTnGprmoJRQG9bqdHHFQt6EBuOiSV5rOtX_gAfCDcvi4VJRQpV0lAeIfF1KO2kHwThb2TTEobtjZ111gu2i2u1FDR6Tma2_GYvykTeA8I/w400-h400/IMG_3222%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJT8Mav4HeuxnZJ6r-w5Pl9JzOGKI0nCouwtF9sKFLBsdMyiEQG_mE0Wf7W5qJ3Noa7AwsUwIgWeWww_PynwKRdpqaHcGdZHEZsrtpo2g5LzZOTh949P1ptkCK8SlL_Bg8j00iTHdC_U/s2048/IMG_3223%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJT8Mav4HeuxnZJ6r-w5Pl9JzOGKI0nCouwtF9sKFLBsdMyiEQG_mE0Wf7W5qJ3Noa7AwsUwIgWeWww_PynwKRdpqaHcGdZHEZsrtpo2g5LzZOTh949P1ptkCK8SlL_Bg8j00iTHdC_U/w400-h400/IMG_3223%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p>In 2019 I wasn't super consistent with my nutrition, after stopping that prep I knew in 2020 I needed to get consistent with my nutrition by hitting my caloric and macro goals every day. I did just that and finding my happy place was the best thing I could have done along with being consistent with workouts and doing things my own way. I released some of the pressure on myself and did workouts I would enjoy, even if they had more cardio in them than I was used to.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">So I made it through the holidays while cutting and it wasn't difficult at all. On New Year's Eve Bella and I had dinner with my friends Brenda and Ryan. We enjoyed delicious pork loin, veggies, sweet pepper poppers and it was so amazing! Brenda is my dear friend who also competes so it's nice Ryan knows we need our protein and doesn't tease us too much for it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Bella and I finished the night out at home with cards and Rummikub, it was a wonderful New Year's Eve with her. I did make room for mimosas, not your typical mimosa but rather some Prosecco with Bai and it was delicious. You really do find ways to make things fit in with your macros and it just gets easier the more used to the process you get.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">As the cut continues and calories do drop it does get more challenging but that is all part of this sport. You must know what you are getting into, there is sacrifice but that is just part of the process. Thankfully I am surrounded by supportive people who understand why I do this and why I might not want to go out for dinner or go out drinking. It's all my choice to be the best ME I can be in a sport that I truly LOVE.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I was happy to wave goodbye to 2020. No things don't magically change just because the calendar moved forward into a new year but there is something to be said for feeling like you are beginning anew. 2021 is going to be an epic year, I am more than ready for it and know that I am in control of my own life, my dreams and I am thrilled to be moving into this new year truly knowing myself and loving myself. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX2X48-hQljx_CmkoBQ6MTLsYTL70sNXnAeZ5ROB5QwOmxOnhxkKtZghRGFn0GRqG7UvK1_vlTFY1KE23-shelrtMrpxk_oR1Hlj7kcwAy493sb3VupXr7Yt-hB_6xNxahyphenhyphenhf_K428K0Y/s2048/IMG_3212%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1102" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX2X48-hQljx_CmkoBQ6MTLsYTL70sNXnAeZ5ROB5QwOmxOnhxkKtZghRGFn0GRqG7UvK1_vlTFY1KE23-shelrtMrpxk_oR1Hlj7kcwAy493sb3VupXr7Yt-hB_6xNxahyphenhyphenhf_K428K0Y/w215-h400/IMG_3212%255B1%255D.JPG" width="215" /></a></div><p></p><p></p>Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-75066276877720049872020-12-21T10:04:00.000-06:002020-12-21T10:04:17.131-06:00<p> </p><a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/13736585/?claim=sjguhf9khty">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-34028486430166293272020-12-20T21:42:00.000-06:002020-12-20T21:42:26.979-06:00Beauty in Muscles<p><span style="font-family: verdana;">My journey back to the stage has begun again. I am so excited to be on this path and feel more ready than ever before. This year after my hysterectomy my body has truly found it's happy place. A place where my calories are nice and high. I have been enjoying food, hit many PR's in the gym, stayed at a consistent weight for months while also leaning out. I have never been in this place physically and I truly feel so amazing in my own skin.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Proof of that is in these pictures. The one on the left is week 1 of my prep in 2018, the picture on the right is week 1 of my current prep.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVvZZ3XXJKTHEfwYKB7Ym-RAuT-vYp5JMNf4S8Sy4OBLRSKF8WwvPOWJrED__bVbZeErTx1kLjfzBY-IgvQ2stM9Ei5nRPo0j-MJWdBAsD_wdc1rgGY3yzIgPEC4DoyH0ryxdCmjfZWg/s2048/IMG_3035%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVvZZ3XXJKTHEfwYKB7Ym-RAuT-vYp5JMNf4S8Sy4OBLRSKF8WwvPOWJrED__bVbZeErTx1kLjfzBY-IgvQ2stM9Ei5nRPo0j-MJWdBAsD_wdc1rgGY3yzIgPEC4DoyH0ryxdCmjfZWg/s320/IMG_3035%255B1%255D.JPG" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">The woman on the left was excited but also in a lot of pain and honestly quite lost. I pushed through that prep and had an outcome I never could have imagined. It was a wonderful competition and provided me a long moment of feeling extremely proud and somewhat confident. Following that prep my pain and symptoms worsened and I feel I went down this dark path losing myself even my love for myself. Sometimes allowing yourself to go to a dark place is the easy way out and it affected not only me but also those I love the most. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">As we know I came out of that dark place, rather I was pulled out and was forced to face myself as my life was seemingly crumbling around me. I knew my focus had to become on myself, even though that felt selfish, I knew it and so did those closest to me. Harsh realities came to light and with that massive changes, but changes that were certainly needed in order to flourish and truly find ME again.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheNZ5_8vp0kySBov6w45g6IT3E2EuqyiEWNDlSk13FadolYxOjVj5_yCPYV37wVBXun1n1ZNamPDE5qZmCDoomPa1o_GUD4b8KkSBvCC-q54H2BfBw7jCKIBIRsJxVzyfBcYVIWMJtbi0/s800/c229d6dca179782e760e1613fbf1a57f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="564" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheNZ5_8vp0kySBov6w45g6IT3E2EuqyiEWNDlSk13FadolYxOjVj5_yCPYV37wVBXun1n1ZNamPDE5qZmCDoomPa1o_GUD4b8KkSBvCC-q54H2BfBw7jCKIBIRsJxVzyfBcYVIWMJtbi0/s320/c229d6dca179782e760e1613fbf1a57f.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">The timing of my prep is perfect, it is going to give me something to focus on that I have a good amount of control over. Honestly I need that so much right now. Life has felt a bit out of control and the changes have been a major adjustment. I do feel myself healing in a way but there are still really hard days. Doing what I love so much with weight training, especially with an amazing friend to train with sometimes, brings me so much positivity and joy. The natural endorphins from the workouts always help to get me out of funk.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">This prep is starting 22 weeks out so it can be a slow process with opportunities to reverse up a bit as I go along. Kyle has an awesome plan set out for me and I am so damn excited to see what I achieve with his guidance. He truly is an incredible coach with so much proven success from bodybuilding competitors to Crossfit competitors, Spartan races and more. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I will be sharing weekly about my journey back to the stage, just a warning you will get full honesty from me. Nothing will be sugar coated, I will praise the good days and be open about the brutally difficult days. Sharing everything from food prep, progress photos, videos and the major difference of going through prep with Kyle as my trainer and friend rather than my husband.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">For sure it will be a much different experience for him not being in the same house through my prep, he's getting off easy 😂 This process truly does affect everyone around you as you go through so much mentally, there are some really tough days. I'm blessed to still be able to count on him in a different way and know I have his full support no matter what. Ending a marriage is difficult but ending it with goals of true support and friendship certainly makes a massive difference.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLJREdWPMayJ4yKNNhsez8vrqFwTJhF8c6UQFDGUsa91ydmmxDRsSLn29gu_hYsswVuctiaVlQ9OtWTXS8ZWSfdUymfhLlaXITlIcgKGyXL4x_2LDKyu1FRcw6eRYB6x6JA_V3eP9ckY/s251/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="201" data-original-width="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLJREdWPMayJ4yKNNhsez8vrqFwTJhF8c6UQFDGUsa91ydmmxDRsSLn29gu_hYsswVuctiaVlQ9OtWTXS8ZWSfdUymfhLlaXITlIcgKGyXL4x_2LDKyu1FRcw6eRYB6x6JA_V3eP9ckY/s0/download.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">So you might be wondering what changed for my first week? Did my calories get dropped big time? Do I not get to eat carbs? Do I have to do crazy amounts of cardio?</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The answer to all of those questions is NO!!!!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">My calories stayed the same and I lost a pound. I am currently at 2450 calories a day and that's a good thing because this girl likes to EAT!!! My macros got changed up to high protein and carbs with low fat. I will be thoroughly enjoying my carbs while I have them, bring on the Sour Patch Kids!!! Some cardio has been added in but it is minimal, just a few short HIIT sessions and some LISS/MISS spread throughout the week.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I have done well with being consistent with my caloric intake and focused for the past year on increasing them, this is so important to help make the experience a bit easier. You have more room to play with calories and there will be no need to be crazy low even the last few weeks. Every time I have competed we learn different things about how my body reacts to the process and what works best for me. This is not a sport of quick fixes and fast results, it requires so much patience and trusting in the process. I have not always been patient with the process and it feels amazing to actually feel a bit relaxed for this prep.<br /><br />So I hope you enjoy following me on my journey and seeing the amazing changes that occur. Life has been challenging me so much lately but I am more than ready for this exciting journey and seeing the best ME yet!</span></p><p></p>Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-55104498698862627742020-12-15T16:03:00.000-06:002020-12-15T16:03:37.666-06:00300# CLUB - Hell Yeah!!!!<p> <span style="font-family: verdana;">Last year I had a goal of trap bar deadlifting 300#, I pulled #295 and never got 300#. It was at the end of the year, my body was angry with me and I was ignoring the major issues I was having because quite honestly I was too damn stubborn to admit I needed serious help. In my mind things would ease up for a day so that meant I was getting better. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I was never getting any better and everyone around me, especially Kyle, was wanting so badly for me to get the help and procedures I needed but I didn't listen to anyone. Sometimes we don't know why we make the choices we do but looking back I do wish I would have listened to those who loved me so much at the time. Instead I pushed my body far beyond it's limits, I was living life extremely anemic, constantly losing blood and in so much pain but I told myself I could tough through it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Thankfully I came to my senses, a little too late as COVID caused delays in my hysterectomy and I found myself in some scary situations. After healing my body and then working on healing my mind and my heart I reset my goal of 300#.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">There were changes in training after our gym closed and Kyle and I separated. I needed my space and I know he did too so I wasn't training with him. I still got workouts from him but trained on my own or with my bad ass friend Brenda. Thinking of trying that PR lift without him was hard for me sometimes and I just didn't bring myself to try it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Then one day Brenda and I had a heavy leg day a couple of weeks ago. In my head I thought maybe I could try it that day but never mentioned it to Brenda. On my 3rd set I did 8 reps at 255# and she was like, go for 300# next set. At first I wasn't sure I wanted to baby step up but she was ready to see me go for three after the lifts I just did and with her support I went for it.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dysfbH83CowpiFddsag223hOWCuTx9bkGm8XrDK3F_mfr8M6852N3BD7Bv2FnA4RcSvDmvXQJYtxTPuVTZ32g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">You guys, I was shocked just SHOCKED at how easy it was to get the weight up so I went for more reps and got THREE!!!! I was fucking PUMPED!!! I mean you can probably tell from the video with that silly smile on my face as I did those reps. I felt STRONG. I felt CAPABLE. I felt so fucking PROUD of myself!!! To achieve this goal of mine at the end of a year where so much in my life has changed and I have felt so much loss, it just reminded me that I GOT THIS.<br /><br />Now to move on to competition prep which will be so different than any before and I am more than ready. Kyle will help me achieve my best physique to date with his guidance and I am so excited for that!</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">2020 has felt like so much loss but through my self care with amazing guidance I am realizing it has been a year of moving forward, life has big things planned for me and the Universe needed to shake things up so I could see that. I'm telling you, I SEE IT and I will not hold myself back from great things I know I will accomplish.</span></p>Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-42595901318292699892020-11-19T13:07:00.000-06:002020-11-19T13:07:06.574-06:00Life Changes - Starting "Anew"<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7806vJZ0rLcNjcA3Fim_YcOcVpO4YmDqlbD-pG8tIZd__2QxeIs2MxXteQuad2GW77eNDWm_unHWx0PrK0q1OB1WNbC4jXzSCoHgOUkeMYAhnJ-tk78Ch2ftLmwdPy6TS_WXNyJnSh4Q/s930/anew.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="930" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7806vJZ0rLcNjcA3Fim_YcOcVpO4YmDqlbD-pG8tIZd__2QxeIs2MxXteQuad2GW77eNDWm_unHWx0PrK0q1OB1WNbC4jXzSCoHgOUkeMYAhnJ-tk78Ch2ftLmwdPy6TS_WXNyJnSh4Q/s320/anew.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">It has been a while since I have shared on my blog and as my journey in life is changing in so many ways this seems like the right time to start sharing again. I have some big goals ahead of me that I am very excited to CRUSH as I work to get back on stage next spring.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The road to the stage will be very different this time. This year has been incredibly difficult in so many ways from the affects of COVID to a major storm that hit Iowa, a land hurricane called a DERECHO and realizing that sometimes the best way to move forward in life is to allow some things to come to an end.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">For Kyle and I the affects COVID had on our gym from having to close for a month to Kyle not being able to do much for sales and having a really hard time getting people into our physical location it was just devastating. His health has continued to be a major challenge for him and he continues to try to find answers. Most days he was unable to do much and leading classes was difficult for him. We did have some wonderful new trainers and one of our coaches really stepped up her game to help Kyle every day with all of the gym business from teaching classes to writing workouts and just learning from Kyle. I have to give a shoutout and thank you to Keegan, we wouldn't have made it as far as we did without her. I also have to give a shoutout to Stephanie for all she has done for us. They both made a world of difference and have had such a positive impact.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">With heavy hearts we had to close our physical location at the end of September. It was a decision neither of us wanted to make but we could not survive, it was heartbreaking and very sudden. The last week of classes was so emotional, I was incredibly blessed to have had the experience I did there from leaving my comfort zone and actually teaching classes to writing kickboxing classes. Kickboxing was my absolute favorite and I came to love teaching it so, so much. I miss my people, I miss the group fitness, I miss what was but I know things happen for a reason.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">During this time Kyle and I had our own personal struggles happening that we tried so hard to work through together. Marriage is incredibly difficult and sometimes two people who love each other realize that even though there is so much love there, it isn't enough. We made the decision to separate and came to the decision amicably. Our marriage may be ending but our family, relationship and friendship are not. We will remain a united front, doing everything that is best for our Bella, supporting one another on our new paths in life.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">I will not lie and say everything has been sunshine and rainbows, far from it. What led us to this decision was a lot of heartache but also understanding, it is by far the most difficult experience of my life and will be for a long time. This is the most difficult change to go through and some days I physically hurt. Then some days I feel a happiness within myself that hasn't been there for a very long time. I am working very hard on myself and I am a huge advocate for mental health, I have an amazing therapist who is helping to guide me through all of this. I wish everyone could have a therapist because it is so important to work through the obstacles in your life and truly find who you are.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpw2NEzoMIcRIFl7mx_zwRTyUMqrqealFitGTor4xMbu3xcfq0NyoP-Vcmxj9fGs_b1jrfDa0R0Y296MmEMd1QL6KIihyphenhyphenuzhyfW88vWbvyCfNty6_Ry4zcrSnfRHTh7nAtDHcCplocmB0/s940/IMG_2487%255B1%255D.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpw2NEzoMIcRIFl7mx_zwRTyUMqrqealFitGTor4xMbu3xcfq0NyoP-Vcmxj9fGs_b1jrfDa0R0Y296MmEMd1QL6KIihyphenhyphenuzhyfW88vWbvyCfNty6_Ry4zcrSnfRHTh7nAtDHcCplocmB0/s320/IMG_2487%255B1%255D.PNG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; text-align: left;">Kyle and I have respect and love for one another that will forever be with us and I am grateful for that. I am continuing as a coach for G5 and he is coaching me for my next figure competition in 2021. He is the best at what he does and with his guidance I will bring the best ME to that stage and he will be supporting me all the way there. </span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">My workouts have changed just a bit as I am back to training at a large fitness center. It's been so long since I've worked out in a place like this, I love it because there is such an insane amount of equipment to work with. I'm not gonna lie, I was slightly scared to go the first time I went by myself and stepped into the free weight area. But I grabbed my weights, caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror and remembered I am one badass chick that knows her way around the weight room and can lift some serious weight.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGu6gIlILF1i63J5XhdSZ39GhjKflWZz-WPx1nw5z2Sa05R_VCa4gx3_I8ZEel8GX09xca38hjzsxV4Da28THZbuRMKUSvljSfaBo06tIo1Nmvt055Phn5JXnpwUVEQYzlkirLaLrUoE/s2048/KBKD6883%255B2%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1951" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGu6gIlILF1i63J5XhdSZ39GhjKflWZz-WPx1nw5z2Sa05R_VCa4gx3_I8ZEel8GX09xca38hjzsxV4Da28THZbuRMKUSvljSfaBo06tIo1Nmvt055Phn5JXnpwUVEQYzlkirLaLrUoE/s320/KBKD6883%255B2%255D.JPG" /></a></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">It is also really nice to have equipment at home in my garage so I can train at home too when I want. My friend and fellow competitor Brenda also has an awesome gym in her home so we train there or at the gym we go to. I love having her with me on this journey, she kicked ass in her first figure competition with so many challenges including extending her cut because her competition kept getting rescheduled. She is an amazing woman who inspires me so much!!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQS1ds5lhpVEdFL1p6siW3dQ-8jd8jkWviZ39uH-N8NtIRlE_ZCUm7RCgakAZnihV3eGkN0UMT-gfq63EKNBh_8_HatwgbgW_hx7Mz0aoeIOnPJM_2wO7g8rOMC-3SYnDFyYvshsMqdF8/s2048/IMG_9865%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1861" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQS1ds5lhpVEdFL1p6siW3dQ-8jd8jkWviZ39uH-N8NtIRlE_ZCUm7RCgakAZnihV3eGkN0UMT-gfq63EKNBh_8_HatwgbgW_hx7Mz0aoeIOnPJM_2wO7g8rOMC-3SYnDFyYvshsMqdF8/s320/IMG_9865%255B1%255D.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana; text-align: left;">It feels good that I can say I am currently at the best place physically I have ever been in my entire life. All the years I spent striving to do things a certain way when all it took was just finally becoming comfortable with the process, doing what I enjoy and trusting the process. I am eating more than I ever have before, having killer workouts and truly feel happy in this body of mine. This place I am in has set me up for a great experience with my next cut. There isn't quite as much body fat to cut down and I know Kyle is going to have me the leanest I have ever been on stage. I am more than ready for my journey in competing and will continue to share it here.</span></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiji4FArZ_Yw3QaR8J69a-S8CCUSW_LOsSe-38Vw7nLJXQK8tWMdCAeK9TALhlURiT5-lfA2vRZEX5lhkTMK5uvu_8GYCeHey6pA_9hK2F3KGZEbj0wNhSES0OhGIcscthehr-YnmzsQns/s2048/WLNX6129%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiji4FArZ_Yw3QaR8J69a-S8CCUSW_LOsSe-38Vw7nLJXQK8tWMdCAeK9TALhlURiT5-lfA2vRZEX5lhkTMK5uvu_8GYCeHey6pA_9hK2F3KGZEbj0wNhSES0OhGIcscthehr-YnmzsQns/s320/WLNX6129%255B1%255D.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><p></p>As I navigate through life's huge changes I know there will be many peaks and valleys. The valleys have proven tough to get through but I am surrounded by so much support and they help me make my way back up to the valley. I am trusting in my journey and the path I am on and will try to be ready for the bumps along the way. I got this.</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5NfiRiOkFqq-ssTZ6IXOPtyldEWXVxLAmsMflIKen2Bq-udOSVGn2RMBeO7an4V4Hr3SNfjjgKkMPhFRjdks2oD4yrm6MtonjX0rRC9oNS4j_K3SJNu07_EEppu4B-yNtD7o_JxpYyJM/s1073/IMG_2288%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1071" data-original-width="1073" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5NfiRiOkFqq-ssTZ6IXOPtyldEWXVxLAmsMflIKen2Bq-udOSVGn2RMBeO7an4V4Hr3SNfjjgKkMPhFRjdks2oD4yrm6MtonjX0rRC9oNS4j_K3SJNu07_EEppu4B-yNtD7o_JxpYyJM/s320/IMG_2288%255B1%255D.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p></p>Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-48815386094981378982020-04-27T16:16:00.000-05:002020-04-27T16:16:43.703-05:00Two Weeks Post Surgery<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am officially two weeks post surgery and I have to say that the time has flown by. Simply resting was king of hard, my mind would think of all the little things I could be doing around the house but I have gotten a LOT of rest. I am grateful for Kyle and Bella with all of their help during my recovery.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In this time I also had my 39th birthday, what a strange birthday this year but I did enjoy spending it with Kyle and Bella (when she surfaced ;)). It was a quite celebration of watching movies, playing some games and I found myself some new running shoes for my birthday present thanks to Reebok having a nice online sale. Kyle and Bella made me my favorite cake, white cake with chocolate frosting, and we thoroughly enjoyed devouring that.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As I have gone through recovery it has been pretty smooth sailing. To go from bleeding constantly day after day with major cramping to absolutely nothing has been INCREDIBLE!!! I have had some minor cramping but nothing like what I was used to and my incisions have all healed nicely. I have just three small incision spots and one is literally inside my belly button so you can't even see it. The area right above my belly button is tender to the touch, it is also where I have scar tissue from a belly button piercing which I imagine they would have had to cut through.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I have noticed a huge change in my energy and having a lot of symptoms I had before with the low hemoglobin that are now gone such as:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Restless legs</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Elevated heart rate</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Cold hands and feet</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Light headed</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Fainting spells</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Pale skin</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Easily short of breath</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To no longer feel any of those symptoms has been literally freeing! I associated so many of them with POTS, some could still occur due to that condition but now I know I was experiencing them mostly due to being anemic.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Easing into working out has been going well. I started with short walks inside the house the first week and this second week I was okay to start some low intensity cardio. I have started LISS/MISS (low intensity steady state or medium intensity steady state) cardio on the airdyne we have and also still walking. It has felt really good to move some and feel the benefits of the simple cardio. I've never been a huge fan of cardio but LISS/MISS is such an awesome tool to use when you are limited in what you can do for exercise.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today was my post surgery check up and it went so well! I have had such a great recovery in just two weeks. My incisions look great, everything is healing quickly and I was cleared to start light lifting and back to normal in just two more weeks instead of four. The best news was my hemoglobin level, it is up to 11.8, nearly back to normal! My doctor is so incredible and thoughtful, she was thrilled with my incision in my belly button. She tried to make it as small as possible so I wouldn't have a noticeable scar for competitions, I never would have expected her to think of that.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">I am grateful to be at this point in my journey and am looking ahead with excited anticipation to future goals. To actually feel GOOD is incredible and to know I am finally healthy I am more than ready to start crushing goals! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">My mind has played some tricks and at times I feel like I have lost a lot of muscle but I am grateful that Kyle is right here for me to talk to and remind me of simple science :) My muscles are there and they will be pumped back up in no time, muscle memory is a wonderful thing and my body hasn't forgotten all the years of work put in for the muscle I have built.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Now to get through the craziness that is currently life and finding a new normal. I am anxious for our gym to be open again and am ready to see our amazing fit family and teach some kickboxing!!!</span><br />
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Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-1057298009655832282020-04-12T12:27:00.000-05:002020-04-12T12:33:15.308-05:00My Hysterectomy <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What a whirlwind life has been these past few weeks. We are in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and it has thrown everyone for quite a loop. So much of our daily lives have been altered from closures of schools and businesses to being cautious of every time we need to leave our homes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Along with these changes non essential surgeries have all been cancelled, that included my hysterectomy which was scheduled for April 2nd. At first I was of course frustrated but I fully understood why it was cancelled but I knew deep down that this would be detrimental for me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A couple of weeks ago I had a pretty bad Sunday night passing a lot of extremely large clots and my blood had become watery. The following Monday I had an appointment with my OBGYN and she decided to put me on Progesterone to stop my period. It was never an option before due to my high risk for breast cancer but at this point we both agreed that being on it short term would outweigh the negatives and the bleeding had to be stopped.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Over the next couple of days everything got worse. I was changing tampons and pads every 20-30 minutes and passing so many clots. Wednesday night I actually fainted and was unable to move around much. Thursday I called my OBGYN again and was advised to go to the ER, the last place I wanted to go.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I knew Kyle would only be able to drop me off and I was legit terrified. The hospital was taking temperatures before anyone could go inside and they were so kind. I was admitted into the ER and my hemoglobin had dropped down to 6.7, on Monday is was 9.2 so that just meant I really had lost a lot of blood in those few days. The normal hemoglobin level for women is 12-16 and I have been below that for quite a while just never as low as it had gotten.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I honestly cannot say enough about how amazing the nurses, techs, doctors and hospital staff were while I was there. They made me feel almost at home, I get emotional just thinking about it. They were angels on earth to me and kept me informed every step and made sure I knew all of my options and even helped guide me if I was uncertain of any of the options.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">They admitted me and Thursday night I had my first blood transfusion. My nurse stayed with me the first 15 minutes so I could let her know if I had any reactions at all, thankfully I had none. It took about 3.5 hours, so crazy to see that blood going into my IV. I was just so grateful to whomever that blood came from. Thank you a million times over to every person out there who donates blood. Never would I have thought I would be in the position of needing a blood transfusion, especially from my period.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Before I went to the ER I truly had it in my head that I could not bleed out from my period. No matter how loudly my body was telling me something was very wrong I just didn't think it was possible. In my mind I was overreacting and not being strong enough to get through it. Being told by multiple doctors and nurses that I could have very well bled out was eye opening. It's not that I was weak or not being strong enough, it was that I was being stubborn and not listening to my own body screaming for help.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Friday morning they tested my hemoglobin and it had only improved by .1 and I was so disappointed. That day I had a second blood transfusion, once again my nurse sat with me for the first 15 minutes to make sure everything went ok and it did. Thankfully after the second transfusion my hemoglobin jumped up to 9.2, back to a more "normal" number for me but still well below where it should be.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Throughout my stay I was also receiving high doses of Estrogen and iron through my IV. The doses of Estrogen freaked me out, it is the one hormone I was to stay away from. My little sister's breast cancer at the age of 23 was estrogen based and I had been taken off any form of birth control when we found that out. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To have to pick a lesser of two evils was tough but I understood that it was truly a life saving measure at this point. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My OBGYN doctor was not at the hospital while I was there so I saw one of her colleagues and she was incredible. We discussed my plan for leaving the hospital and that really was to get the bleeding stopped, bed rest and my doctor petitioning the hospital to approve my surgery as she viewed it life saving rather than non-essential. I was prescribed high doses of Norethin (a birth control), tapering over a period of 12 days with the main concern being as I taper it that the bleeding will start again. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">She also explained to me why they did not want to do the surgery while I was already in the hospital. With my hemoglobin being so low surgery was dangerous, my immune system is compromised and my recovery would be longer and much more painful. The risk of COVID-19 is high and at this time I would become extremely ill if I were to get it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What a scary time we are in right now.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The following Tuesday my OBGYN called and let me know that they were going to schedule my surgery for Thursday, I was so surprised! It was such a relief to know everything would finally be taken care of. The scheduled it for 7:30am and Kyle was able to be there with me, it was a huge relief to know I was able to have him with me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I started bleeding again Wednesday night despite all of the birth control and passed some clots Thursday morning. My body was more than ready for the surgery.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My doctor was able to do a laparoscopy procedure so I just have three little incisions across my lower abdomen. My ovaries looked good so they were able to leave those and removed my uterus and fallopian tubes. A normal uterus weighs 60g - 100g and mine was just over 500g, the largest fibroid was 8.3cm. I can't imagine how differently I am going to feel once I get through the recovery process.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The hospital staff was once again amazing, they took the best care of me. I always had what I needed and never felt lonely. My hemoglobin had dropped back down to 7.8 after the surgery so my energy was extra zapped once again. My hemoglobin will build back up as I continue to take my iron supplements and get plenty of rest during my recovery.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My recovery will be 6-8 weeks with no driving the first week and minimal activity besides some walking, I can't lift anything more than 10 pounds. Feeling so tired certainly helps me rest and walking just a little bit zaps my energy. My tummy is a little swollen which is normal and my incisions look really good. I do continue to have cramping and am very much looking forward to when I no longer have to deal with that!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My emotions are all over the place, which I expected. Being on so many hormones and going to nothing was bound to mess with me a bit. Now is the time to really follow my own advice and meditate daily. Find my focus again and my ability to calm my emotions and find that happy place in the way I know how. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Being away from the gym and training has been so hard for me. We are closed due to COVID-19 but still doing live workouts once a day for our members and spending that time with Kyle is one of my favorite things. I love the fun stuff he comes up with and sharing his ideas with everyone during this difficult time. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I won't be able to really lift for six weeks and I will listen to my doctors. My body will recover properly and I will bounce back stronger than before I just need to find my patience and be grateful that I will heal and be better. Thank you to everyone for your prayers and positive thoughts, it has meant the world to me.</span><br />
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Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-60415105445979870022020-02-19T14:42:00.001-06:002020-02-19T14:50:54.565-06:00Your Biggest Support Is......YOU<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBdwVuQal7knVx3zR2wn76NeDfaGhEsCUJbKHYOVaVDS_OCFTPPWCP1_LG04N5IkZr_dUJWB1jx364vfx_6hHp10haylHETL8igbjJ2unXZAxYCoczavKLeWXTeviqLcobAatMynHheqs/s1600/557165164-first_love_yourself_by_kamyar_infinity-d4lgzi5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="800" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBdwVuQal7knVx3zR2wn76NeDfaGhEsCUJbKHYOVaVDS_OCFTPPWCP1_LG04N5IkZr_dUJWB1jx364vfx_6hHp10haylHETL8igbjJ2unXZAxYCoczavKLeWXTeviqLcobAatMynHheqs/s320/557165164-first_love_yourself_by_kamyar_infinity-d4lgzi5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Read that again.....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Believe in it. I love this acronym so much and believe in it 100%. Does it sound selfish? I'm sure to some people it does and I may have believed it was selfish at one point in my life. But these words are so true, if you don't love yourself it is impossible to love others, if you don't take care of yourself it is impossible to take care of others. Fill your cup so full that it overflows with plenty to give.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This journey in life has certainly been testing me in so many ways. Sometimes it takes someone you love to remind you of who you really are and that you need to find yourself again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Deep down I have felt angry, not necessarily at myself but at my body. My emotions have been all over the place and so hard to control. I know a lot of that has to do with my hormones being completely out of whack. My energy is low, workouts have been really tough and it just frustrates me because I can't fix it myself.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Realizing how I have been feeling about myself and knowing it affects how I have been with those I love has been hard. At one point in my life I was doing really well with meditation and even got into tarot reading. I let myself stop practicing those things without realizing how much of an impact it had on me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A couple of weeks ago I started implementing daily meditation, even if I can only fit in five minutes a day. I also began journaling and reconnecting with the Universe in my own way. The changes I have felt by allowing myself the time needed to do this every day is amazing. I know I will be a work in progress every day for the rest of my life and I am fine with that. Giving myself the love to truly reconnect and see who I have come to be at this point in life has been the best thing I could do for myself and my family and all those I love.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are still rough moments and I know there always will be. Getting through training sessions recently has been rough. My body just tires out faster, especially when I try to do heavier lifting days. The dizzy spells come frequently and we have found that I really need to be careful with up and down movement right now.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">March 9th cannot get here soon enough. I am more than ready to get surgery scheduled and say "bye-bye" to my damn uterus! It gave me the most precious gift in the world, our sweet Bella, but man has it turned on me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you find yourself struggling with self care, start off slow with even just 2-5 minutes a day. Do whatever works for YOU. There is no right or wrong way to take care of yourself. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I used to think I had to meditate a certain way but learned that meditation is a very personal experience and there is no "wrong" way to do it. You do YOU. Start off with guided meditations like this one:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3RxXiFgkxGc">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3RxXiFgkxGc</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There are also a couple of podcasts that I listen to and they have really resonated with me in so many ways.</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.lifeisamarathon.com/"><img border="0" data-original-height="376" data-original-width="1600" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMUB8T3TxaJxFpXuQ1DrSl3zv7vpZikU61AIbgE1wfEl_QRKLfWtFDrF2-OJzvyt9n1cZdjlqn0rq1mPlTYb-uLjoXlWf3vAVpwiWiwdl_x9CWULKg4CUipob3caaqHa6vljF6Zg8HqkY/s320/LIAM_BrucevanHorn_website2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bruce Van Horn is brilliant and I love the sound of his voice. I am to really be at ease when I listen to any of his podcasts. He has great advice for all areas of life and I highly recommend giving him a listen.</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.trishblackwell.com/category/podcasts/"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="760" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdEyfLpzDnqfq4qVl_6f9uGRnh8xA0Bw_0tC_xGW7MVBVaQqzgUlcdI_9zBS_XsgK1d7Wrq5R9iMe_L_ia8I9t6bfnPBuUAMSm0xX_a4HWEj2pqap5wmRwlEeznEoCghlkhTHxkb_gvPo/s320/new-podcast-header-2mil.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Trish Blackwell is the bomb! I love her authentic enthusiasm and her direct approach. Some of her podcasts are faith based and if that's not your thing give the other episodes a listen. She gives awesome advice and has so many great tips for all areas of life, she will help you to believe in yourself and forget the loud outside noise.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I believe I was meant to find myself in this place before my surgery. Before a big part of me is removed and my hormones get a bit more wacky I will have better tools to help me get through it. I am thankful for all of the support around me but also I am grateful that I am able to truly believe in and support myself.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now go be the best YOU that you can be!</span></div>
Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-82665139479702626442020-02-03T15:31:00.000-06:002020-02-03T15:31:04.457-06:00The Mental Game<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The mental game can be incredibly tough, having an outlet is so important. You need people in your tribe who you can fully trust and that you are completely comfortable sharing with. We are all our own worst critics, especially when we are faced with unexpected challenges. It takes time to train your mind to be positive, to replace negative thoughts with positive ones. I will forever be a work in progress and definitely stumble at times. I am so grateful for those in my tribe who listen without judgement and offer simple love and support.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It was one week ago when I made the decision to postpone competing. The first couple of days it really didn't seem real. But then I had one day where everything just kind of slammed into me and I wasn't prepared. It was a tough day due to a combination of things and I just needed to let out my frustration.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Currently I am reversing back up in my calories with the guidance of Chris with <a href="https://www.gps-coaching.net/">GPS Coaching</a>. Our goal is to have me back up to my caloric intake I was at before I started the cut, which is 2800 calories.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My caloric intake was 1859 on low days and 1998 on high days. Because I had such a big cut to my maintenance calories Chris had me make a good jump in calories. I am now at 2405 on low days and 2590 on high days. I am one that can always eat more food thankfully because it really put me back up there in calories!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is definitely something that mentally could mess with someone. I spent 14 weeks cutting and focusing on seeing the scale go down. This is just part of the sport of bodybuilding and if it something you choose to do you must mentally prepare yourself for this process. I saw continual progress so to stop that and go the reverse direction was momentarily tough for me. Of course I completely understand the need to reverse my calories back up and I plan to maintain where I currently am on the scale. I gained not a even a full pound back after the increase in my calories over a week and a half. I was very happy with that and plan to keep cardio in my plan while eating more food. My calories definitely need to be where they were before so that when I do compete again the cutting process will be that much better.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My body continues to remind me that I have made the right choice for myself. Saturday night Kyle and I went to workout and I did deadlifts and squats. I pulled 275# easily but still couldn't get 300# dang it!!!! I did go all out to see what I can back squat and was able to do 170# for three reps pretty easily. After that I was DONE. Cramps were kicking in big time and my uterus was SWOLLEN. When I started the workout I did not have a protruding stomach, afterwards this is what my tummy looked like....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">These photos don't do it justice, I was so swollen and it was rock hard to the touch. This happens a few times a month with heavier leg days when I am really engaging my core. I always engage my core while exercising but those heavier leg days cause me to focus on that even more. It takes a few days for the swelling to go down and it SUCKS. My jeans I always wear won't button and I just feel miserable.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This seems to happen when my cycle is at the beginning. My cycle would usually start around the 26th-28th of each month and my worst days are those first 10. Now I haven't had a break in my cycle for the last 49 days but this is around when it would normally be the worst for me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I know I will get better, I know things will improve I am just ready for that to happen NOW. Mentally I kind of go to a mean place with myself and I have to be honest about that. Right now I feel like this body isn't even mine and it is so incredibly frustrating. Honestly, I wonder what it is going to feel like when I no longer have my uterus and therefore NO PERIOD!</span><br />
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Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-62528684976113696332020-01-25T20:48:00.000-06:002020-01-25T20:48:53.097-06:00A Change In My Journey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This quote is one I have always loved although I have to admit that when it happens to affect me so greatly it is slightly irritating.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am 14 weeks into my cut and have decided to stop the cut and not compete in May so that I can have a hysterectomy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This decision was incredibly difficult for me but I know it is the right choice for MY health. This cut has been extra challenging with major issues I am having with my menstrual cycle. If talking about women's menstrual cycles isn't for you then you may want to stop reading now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Three years ago my period changed it became very heavy, longer and I had a lot of clots. I went to my doctor and we discovered that I had fibroids in my uterus, one fairly large. I got in with an OBGYN who happened to be the doctor who delivered Bella. I was a couple months out from my competition and we decided an endometrial ablation would be my best option. It would be limited down time and would hopefully help, if not my last option would be a hysterectomy. My ovaries would also be removed putting me into menopause. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Why do the ovaries need to be removed? I am high risk for ovarian cancer and removing them is my best option. In July 2007 my little sister Missy found out that she had breast cancer. It was a complete shock to all of us, she was only 23 years old. It was so scary and we have a large, close knit family so many of us went to her appointments with her. The doctors were shocked, she was just too young to have breast cancer. She is one of many women in my family who have survived breast cancer including my mom, my maternal grandma, many aunts and cousins. Missy tested negative for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes but that doesn't mean myself or my sisters don't have it. My family history is what causes me to be high risk for breast cancer and ovarian cancer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After the ablation it seemed like for a short while my menstrual symptoms eased up slightly. I went on to compete and it was my best competition yet. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My goal then became focused on growing my physique and go after my pro card in Figure. I took a year to build and increased my caloric intake to the highest it had ever been. My maintenance calories were 2,700! I was so excited to see the growth I had achieved as I began my cut back in November.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I did have an appointment with my doctor before I began the cut to have my blood checked. I found out that I was severely anemic, which explained my complete exhaustion in the gym after a simple set of warm ups. Deep down I knew something was wrong with me, but I had associated all of the symptoms with POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome) which I was diagnosed with just last year. It took me 19 years to get properly diagnosed with POTS and it was a relief but anytime I felt "off" I just excused it with that.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My doctor advised me to take an iron supplement and then we would recheck my blood in a month. She reminded me that the next step to relief would be a hysterectomy. It was 100% my choice to move forward with the cut. My energy came back after taking the supplements and my iron levels vastly improved.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The problem was that my period was getting worse. I had hoped that maybe it would improve as I went through my cut, man was I wrong. My period would last at first about 18 days, then 23, then 26 and now I am currently on day 38. It doesn't lighten up, the cramping is so intense I had to be prescribed medication to help me get through it and would typically not be able to go to work the first 3 days when it started again. Thankfully I work for a truly incredible employer who is nothing but supportive and allowed for that type of rest, my incredible co-worker is an angel putting up with those crappy days I have.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One of that hardest things has been knowing how much it was hurting those closest to me who knew what I was dealing with and have had to watch me on my worst days. Kyle is the most incredible husband and he knew as each week passed that the cut was getting harder for me. Yet he never once told me he wanted me to change my plans, he supported me. Bella started making comments to me that a period shouldn't last so long and we talked so she knew there was a cause for why they were so bad. My mom and dad (I told you we are an extremely close family) support me always and they just want me to be healthy again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In my head I continued to tell myself that I could push through. I was halfway through my cut and seeing progress. Even if a lot of days I was bloated I could see the progress in other areas and I was thrilled with the growth I had achieved. But still I had moments questioning if I was making the right choice but I am STUBBORN.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This past week I experienced the worst amount of bleeding and largest clots yet. A clot larger than my hand caused me to feel very faint after I passed it and it terrified me. I broke down because I knew what I had to do. Kyle didn't want me to make a rash decision which honestly kind of surprised me. But I know he 100% understands how stubborn I am and how hard it was to admit that I truly was not ok and would not be able to continue with the cut. My nutrition coach Chris gave me a great piece of advice, health before hobby. She is so supportive of my decision and is going to guide me through a reverse to get my calories back up, just because she is amazing, kind and so giving.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This picture is one I stitched together last week. The photo on the left is 16 weeks out from my 2018 competition and the photo on the right is from last week, 16 weeks out from the competition in May.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I was thrilled to see such growth and change. Ironic I cut down just enough to really start seeing what was built after a year of consistent higher calories and lifting heavy shit!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">With this speed bump in my journey I just want to share my experience throughout the crazy changes that are to come. Speed bumps are bound to hit you at some point in your journey and you have to find a way to navigate over them and adjust your plan. This is something I share with our members often and know that I need to take my own advice.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Although I wasn't anticipating this right now I do know that afterwards I am going to feel so much better. I will be able to train without constant cramps and my body won't be losing a crazy amount of blood and my crazy purchases of tampons and pads will stop. I look forward to feeling GOOD to feel more like ME again. Although the menopause adventure might be interesting I would much rather deal with that!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My consultation with my OBGYN isn't until March 9th but I plan to get on her list in case she has any cancellations. There is only one doctor that I want to do this and I will wait for her. I will continue training as I have been up until surgery and we will see how everything goes. I will compete again but only my body will let me know when the time is right.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For now be ready to read about lifting heavy things, nutrition changes for me and all about hysterectomies and menopause!</span><br />
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Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-31063505629161504552019-12-27T19:01:00.003-06:002019-12-27T19:06:23.293-06:00Goal Digger<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Goals...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Goals are something I truly love and take to heart. I set very specific goals for myself and work hard to achieve every single one in all aspects of life.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYn2hDN_Ptw_NiuaWT-YwREJqIymVkT0hyphenhyphenz4iMFm-NtDaBWtFkfNVtNuWBJYOpDk0DK9_OR-FCvl6zxiVkenKQKC_x9heXC0qdgvt2NSZnhpZLdSWMW43CGpqV4ojfkEJuzgpJvKLcILo/s1600/Goal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="324" data-original-width="375" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYn2hDN_Ptw_NiuaWT-YwREJqIymVkT0hyphenhyphenz4iMFm-NtDaBWtFkfNVtNuWBJYOpDk0DK9_OR-FCvl6zxiVkenKQKC_x9heXC0qdgvt2NSZnhpZLdSWMW43CGpqV4ojfkEJuzgpJvKLcILo/s320/Goal.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As we all know I am currently cutting for my next figure competition but I also have another big goal set for 2019. That goal is to hex bar deadlift 300 pounds. I've wanted to do it for a long time and we spent quite a bit of time this year working on strength. I love lifting heavy it just makes me feel like I am superwoman and gives me so much confidence. Feeling strong is such an incredible feeling.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Last weekend I had issues lifting with my left arm during an upper body workout and that made me finally schedule a massage. It had been about three months since my last massage and that is a long time for me, especially with all the hard training I have been doing!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I love our masseuse, he is truly an incredible human being and so knowledgeable. My body is so much more mobile and happy when I get regular massages and when I keep up on it my body quickly reacts and releases tension easily. If you live in the area and need some body work check out Denny and Kat McFadden at <a href="https://mc2bodywork.com/">Mc² Bodywork</a> they are simply the best and I cannot recommend them enough!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My body was so badly in need of the massage, I knew it would be pretty bad but man. My left lat was like rolled around into my rib cage, no wonder I had issues lifting upper body and I knew it was hindering my really heavy deadlifts. I felt like a new woman after my massage and my lats were finally free, which gave me huge wings! I can't believe how wide my lats have gotten, my quads as well it feels awesome. Now I will be getting regular massages, I know how badly my body will need them as I progress through the cut.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tonight I decided I wanted to go for 300, I was feeling pretty good. My first pulls were smooth and easy, I even pulled 275# for two reps that felt really good. Then it was time for 300 and my mind started going nuts. It is such a mental game for me and tonight I couldn't beat that mental game. I got the weight off the ground but just couldn't push through to lift it all the way up.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The frustration I felt was so strong, I just can't understand why I couldn't pick up that 300#! I tried multiple times and Kyle was so supportive as were the awesome people who were at the gym working out. Part of me felt a little embarrassed that I totally failed like that. I always strive to be transparent and will be honest about these feelings, we all have them. I was happy with the other pulls I achieved but damn it that 300# feels just out of my reach. My body was completely taxed after this deadlifting session, I gave it my all and will need to recover a little bit before I try again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I need to trust myself and believe in myself that I can lift that weight. Really, I do know that I am strong enough and I know I am putting way too much pressure on myself. The mental aspect is just as important as the strength aspect. Getting myself into a better place mentally with this goal is so important and I plan to really work on that.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am off work for the next nine days and plan to relax, do some work I enjoy from home, have lots of time with Bella and in the gym with Kyle. A time to rejuvenate and reset. It's been a crazy year for me at my job with the Teamsters with lots of challenges, some job changes and big steps for me. Finding balance has been difficult and I know the upcoming competition will add to that but I am determined to make everything work.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The competition prep is going well, I am down about 6 pounds and feeling good. I can tell my body is leaning out and measurements are also going down. We haven't had to do anything too crazy so far but starting in a week we are going for a big change. I love the way my nutrition coach, Chris, thinks and how she challenges me. We are going to plan on a 20% caloric reduction for three weeks and see how my body responds. I know my strength will go down it will certainly affect my energy but I am up for the challenge and am excited to see how my body reacts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I have 19 weeks and it is going to go by so fast. My faith and trust are in the process and the plan laid out before me. The guidance and support from Kyle and Chris is essential and I am so blessed to have them with me on this journey.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now to relax, reset my mind and look to the next day when I go for that big 300 pound goal again. Even if I don't get it this year it will be ok. That's the great thing about goals, you have the power to change and adjust them just keep working at it. You will get there and so will I!</span>Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-54817824299767192602019-11-14T16:20:00.002-06:002019-11-14T16:20:44.226-06:00So It Begins Again<span style="color: #191e23; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">I'm back and ready to share about my journey back to the figure competition stage! My goal is post once a week about the entire process for my friends, gym members and anyone else who is interested to follow along.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #191e23; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am beginning my cut a bit earlier than previously planned. Kyle and I decided I would use Chris Goodman of GPS Coaching for my nutrition again. Chris sponsored me for my last competition and it was such a great experience, I am pumped to be working with her again. It's not that we aren't capable of handling the nutrition part of the cut but this way Kyle can focus 100% on the training part and being a supportive husband through the process :) One thing to always remember, it is always in your best interest to have a coach or mentor even if you are a coach! You can learn so much from other knowledgeable people and should be constantly learning about your craft.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #191e23; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When I reached out to Chris she wanted me to get started fairly quickly so I began on Monday. The start of this cut is so much different than any other cut because I am starting off at such high calories. During my building season I got myself up to 2700 calories a day which is so much higher than my previous cut starting point, I was only at 1680, that is crazy!!!! Starting at such a high calorie level will allow so much wiggle room for adjustments and make the process more enjoyable.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #191e23; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This also goes to show that with a properly functioning metabolism you are able to truly eat more food, give more fuel to your body and not have a lot of weight gain. I am eating 1,000 calories more per day and am only 3 pounds heavier than my starting weight of my previous cut. Eat your food, listen to your coaches, listen to your body and you will THRIVE.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #191e23; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As with the start to all cuts I had to send my photos to Chris. My current weight in the photos was 154, three pounds more than the start of my last cut. Kyle and Chris both see growth in the comparison photos, I do as well but I can be a little harsh on myself.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #191e23; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The biggest change I see is in my glutes and legs. They are definitely thicker and my wings are bigger too! Chris noticed growth in my shoulders as well, I do see it through my lats and traps for sure.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #191e23; font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">My calories were adjusted by 10% and I now have four "high" days and three "low" days. On the "high" days my carbs are 271g and on "low" days 239g. Last year was the first time I had done carb cycling, I loved how Chris had me do it and am looking forward to using this method again. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #191e23; font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">Chris strongly advised me to take the break I did in order to build more muscle. I really wanted to compete May 2019 but took her advice and decided to give my body the time it needed to recover from the previous cut and focus solely on building muscle mass, which also meant cutting out cardio. Cutting out the cardio was tough, I LOVE kickboxing and have continued teaching but not taking the actual classes. I did play sand volleyball over the summer on Sundays but other than that there really wasn't any structured cardio. We are now adding in 3 sessions of 15 minutes of LISS (low intensity steady state cardio) keeping my heart rate around 135 bpm and also 6 rounds of HIIT post workout.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #191e23; font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">I feel really good about the plan and am just so damn excited for this cut. I know I have grown and I know I am starting off in the best place possible. There are some health issues that I am dealing with but I am taking the steps I need to in order to stay healthy.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #191e23; font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ladies, our bodies change so much as we get older. I have been in denial of that for quite a while. My energy levels have been low which I kept associating with POTS but during training I would be exhausted after like two lifts, which was not normal for me at all. My period has become a monster and it is because I have fibroids in my uterus and my only option at this point is for a full hysterectomy which will then put me into menopause. Due to my family history of breast cancer I had my blood work done on Monday and found out that I am anemic. So I am taking iron supplements and will have my blood work done again in one month. I will have the surgery at some point next year and will do everything I can to keep myself healthy through this process.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #191e23; font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">So here we go, Stephanie of 2018 I am coming for you!!!! </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #191e23; font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-77109959744392833202019-02-01T15:08:00.000-06:002019-02-01T15:08:09.202-06:00NGA Peoria Competition<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have been busy and clearly neglecting my blog! I just realized I never even shared a post about my figure competition......</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What a weekend it was! We headed to Peoria the Friday morning before the competition as I had my spray tan and polygraph that evening. There was so much excitement through every step from picking up my bag of goodies to the polygraph and the spray tan and trying to get some sleep Friday night.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Have I said how dang lucky I am to have the most amazing, supportive tribe of people in my life? My hubby, daughter, parents, bestie Traci, sister Mindy and niece Evey, bestie Shalae and her friend Kendra and a group of friends from our gym all were there to cheer me on. It still brings tears to my eyes thinking about their support. When I came out for my twalk during the evening show there was such a loud applause from the crowd, even the emcee was surprised. I went to compete in Illinois from Iowa so I don't think they expected that much noise :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The excitement of the day started at 4:30am with my breakfast of rice cakes and finally peanut butter! Photos of me in my suit were sent to my coach so she could track my "filling out" progress. My sister Mindy is the most phenomenal makeup artist and she started prettying me up at about 5:30am. Traci and I headed to the venue for the athletes meeting at 8am. I didn't step on stage until almost noon, it was a long morning and it was pretty cold where we were set up backstage. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All of the other competitors were so amazing, encouraging one another, helping out with makeup or hair when anyone needed anything. I'm telling you this sport is one of friendship and camaraderie. Everyone has their own plans for pre show goodies like pop tarts, rice cakes and peanut butter (which is my go to), fruit, getting those carbs in to help fill out depleted muscles is so important. Then you spend about 20 minutes pumping up before you go on stage AND I got to have two Reece's peanut butter cups, that made me happy :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When it came time to finally step on stage my nerves hit me pretty hard. I felt pretty relaxed but it had been so long since I competed. I felt my posing was a bit wobbly but thankfully the feedback was that my posing was spot on! I was in the Open Figure Tall category and the Figure Masters 35+ category.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I accomplished my goal and brought my best physique yet to the stage. I had cuts in my quads and until I saw the photos I didn't realize how awesomely big my back was! This was by far the leanest I had ever been. My suit is so gorgeous, I was just thrilled with how everything came together.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At this competition pre-judging is in the morning, then we take a break and have the evening show later. That makes for a LONG day, I did have a Subway salad between the morning judging and the evening show.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The evening show is when all of the competitors get to do their routines. Again I was dang nervous at first but when I heard the roar of my supporters it gave me so much confidence. I didn't hear it on stage but in the video of my twalk you can hear my sweet Bella yell, "I love you mommy!" After all of the routines each class is called out, sent backstage and called out again for top 5. When there are "Tall" and "Short" classes the winners of each class go against each other for the top spot and their Pro card.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My coach was very confident with how I was looking and thought I would place well. I honestly had it in my head that I would place in the bottom and had no thoughts of anything else. To my complete surprise I won the Open Figure Tall class!!!! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH_LDQSQ7GGROhMpkq5piZkxVsOzHmhx5PonXXv7392O-7mWMkrLBx8VfzQ34PnN1L43b0eOfXD4oOpY1dy9LltqXk-TQgWFW7qRhCB7DHkVz3izFZBBeFnNtsA8MhB4AYzRv0Sr3dRpc/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH_LDQSQ7GGROhMpkq5piZkxVsOzHmhx5PonXXv7392O-7mWMkrLBx8VfzQ34PnN1L43b0eOfXD4oOpY1dy9LltqXk-TQgWFW7qRhCB7DHkVz3izFZBBeFnNtsA8MhB4AYzRv0Sr3dRpc/s640/6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVE6iigNwtlZ2Gs_4zjc0kNg1ym7Dsq8qJ7Va1Nj7YzLmcFDjDMp_jscRzJGqShRAh3WB5MLRM12H71BTsJ2hPKc7qoqrwi1ozldfhUlHdKxRjXk0W8IuUxRUjNSGgrfSg8pnqsFGJ6cU/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVE6iigNwtlZ2Gs_4zjc0kNg1ym7Dsq8qJ7Va1Nj7YzLmcFDjDMp_jscRzJGqShRAh3WB5MLRM12H71BTsJ2hPKc7qoqrwi1ozldfhUlHdKxRjXk0W8IuUxRUjNSGgrfSg8pnqsFGJ6cU/s640/7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was such a crazy moment, I could not believe it. Knowing I would pose with the Open Short competitor for the pro card was insane. I really wasn't sure if I was ready for my pro card yet. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_G8-HXyLYAM6HVSdByWmgpez12DLmHTSkUu3cD_5noRWpAv7Lq7P0N1PJINdHonRRqEx05pDSI926EJAR_WfjqkCdZ6HDQUbJN-7IaZyYF3k8ghLK7zuz003cRC0NMc2565CF02ABwrQ/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_G8-HXyLYAM6HVSdByWmgpez12DLmHTSkUu3cD_5noRWpAv7Lq7P0N1PJINdHonRRqEx05pDSI926EJAR_WfjqkCdZ6HDQUbJN-7IaZyYF3k8ghLK7zuz003cRC0NMc2565CF02ABwrQ/s640/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I didn't win my pro card that day and I am completely happy with how everything turned out. I placed 2nd in the 35+ Masters category behind the beautiful woman in the blue suit. I need to gain some more size in my quads and get my shoulders bigger. If I had won my pro card that would have meant I could only compete in pro competitions. To be honest the thought going through my head was, "I want to compete with Traci and going pro won't allow that".</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Traci is someone who came into my life through our gym. We bonded instantly and it was a joy to help coach her to the stage last May. It meant the world to me having her with us that weekend and she spent the entire day backstage with me. I shed tears when I watched her step on stage and she shed a few that weekend too. It really is such an emotional experience going through all of the training, the cutting and when you finally reach your goal it is indescribable.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL_YxMRyvMmhar1ApJpGdei-Q2AwilalNZNeYNYKMjfeCRFoB5E7I1JrH82_ugeDwhTwotmHR6FiBpu8iMCkpHzg_kWwzEVxi0TyAbf_0TE2C3hwdTUcCocGrPvVZkmKjLrKjvpeEBtjM/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL_YxMRyvMmhar1ApJpGdei-Q2AwilalNZNeYNYKMjfeCRFoB5E7I1JrH82_ugeDwhTwotmHR6FiBpu8iMCkpHzg_kWwzEVxi0TyAbf_0TE2C3hwdTUcCocGrPvVZkmKjLrKjvpeEBtjM/s640/PicMonkey+Collage+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I would not have been able to do as well as I did without the training of my husband Kyle and nutrition/cardio guidance of my coach Chris. Kyle has been training me for 16 years now and I wouldn't want it any other way. Bella had a fun weekend and she was pretty proud of her mom. Sharing this experience with her at this age was such a blast! I strive to teach her that you can do what you put your mind to as long as you are willing to work hard, to stay humble and to always strive to be your best.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc2hjQTg8hcSwY-r1vPPvbuaIy_jOGT6rJNJ1rhc70uADsyzO0ArNoKYaa-FqGKV_37n6McVJdtBWfOALi2150uomccLSwF4MS0ClO9DJ0MXXSevnmJyKlOspsCwN6lgrh6tZIbwWC2Kw/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc2hjQTg8hcSwY-r1vPPvbuaIy_jOGT6rJNJ1rhc70uADsyzO0ArNoKYaa-FqGKV_37n6McVJdtBWfOALi2150uomccLSwF4MS0ClO9DJ0MXXSevnmJyKlOspsCwN6lgrh6tZIbwWC2Kw/s640/PicMonkey+Collage+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here are a few pictures from my twalk. Chris helped me put together a walk I was comfortable with. You stop and hit your favorite poses on different spots on the stage. This is the fun part where you get to be yourself and show off all of your hard work!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfKfh_jrldlT1VLLsOAFVn987MnvBCRPCHPzkSVmBOBQboZytkHEU_GETs8YEGXZv8XTNZrK3_tJQoTPeTYvXKDiMRceDOIpsOqw1LI2mBApZZD7mBwUX7-g695xrg6OnwsLhdDO0UPVc/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfKfh_jrldlT1VLLsOAFVn987MnvBCRPCHPzkSVmBOBQboZytkHEU_GETs8YEGXZv8XTNZrK3_tJQoTPeTYvXKDiMRceDOIpsOqw1LI2mBApZZD7mBwUX7-g695xrg6OnwsLhdDO0UPVc/s640/PicMonkey+Collage+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My supporters made the experience even more special. My parents are so, SO supportive of me and always have been. Knowing how honestly proud they were just watching me do what I enjoy and then winning a category, again words can't explain it. My beautiful, talented sister Mindy and our sweet niece Evey made the trip so Mindy could do my makeup, she is the BEST! One of my best friends from high school made the trip from Iowa and came with one of her friends who has competed before. The group of friends who came from our gym had ran a Spartan race about an hour away and they all came for the evening show. Again I was just so incredibly humbled by the support from so many wonderful people in my life that I am blessed to call family and friends.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The whole experience was incredible. I absolutely cannot wait to step on stage again. I am taking the year of 2019 to work on building where I need to and will look to be on stage with Traci in May 2020.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I beat Stephanie 2014 and will look forward to presenting an even better physique in 2020!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikn1tggqasjt3qmN2gVzKrsKDruZ6JH32pxBHuuBXd2JnKQlPwvMIkg7Pg0I9ozlgoAZrDYBvG6xZckrhJmvdbBV2Zf1JoUVStPwYj7JQ6YO5C7bftJdmBSV2yYfkIc2vERxab_FHXOIA/s1600/33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="674" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikn1tggqasjt3qmN2gVzKrsKDruZ6JH32pxBHuuBXd2JnKQlPwvMIkg7Pg0I9ozlgoAZrDYBvG6xZckrhJmvdbBV2Zf1JoUVStPwYj7JQ6YO5C7bftJdmBSV2yYfkIc2vERxab_FHXOIA/s400/33.jpg" width="280" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLhT9w1H7xsgz6Ra0xMh1UtVuVlHC6bZ8sIjv3AUyyK4Uc_39VQ7HUCy5miVDD8pijj7q7LDtHufor4yFzqXzuMf-VvcbCZRot4Iv_3J8ajd8xU5Gnp8ebD76bsAKXW4gxiOt83CHJ1AA/s1600/34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLhT9w1H7xsgz6Ra0xMh1UtVuVlHC6bZ8sIjv3AUyyK4Uc_39VQ7HUCy5miVDD8pijj7q7LDtHufor4yFzqXzuMf-VvcbCZRot4Iv_3J8ajd8xU5Gnp8ebD76bsAKXW4gxiOt83CHJ1AA/s400/34.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-65522294940949018112018-09-21T13:34:00.001-05:002018-09-21T13:34:13.966-05:004 Weeks Out - Staying Strong<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I had made a promise to myself to really document this journey to my competition this time around.......oops.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pictures have been taken, measurements have been taken, workouts are being done, check ins with my coach are happening and life is just crazy. With only four weeks to go tomorrow it is time for an update!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The changes to my body are insane, I have never been as lean as I am right now and there are new striations showing up nearly every day at this point. My coach does not have me on crazy low calories or insanely low carbs. I do have three low calorie and low carb days, right around 1182 for my caloric intake. Is that lower than I would recommend for your typical athlete? YES. But this is not your typical sport and towards the end when you are trying to cut the final bit of body fat you have some low days.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A couple of weeks ago I had my first really bad workout. I hadn't hydrated properly the day before and it was a leg day. My husband knew from the start it would be tough so it wasn't a heavy day by any means and he ended up cutting my training session short. I was mad at myself, frustrated and shed quite a few tears. My emotions have been a bit wacky and that day nothing felt better than having him wrap his arms around me in a huge hug reminding me that days like this happen, it's ok to cry it out but then I have to move forward. He captures moments for me on camera and got a really good one.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This was on September 9th, just two weeks ago. In my moment of frustration he captured a photo showing how far I have come, that thick back and all of those muscles showing. I was blown away and it helped me rebound from my pity party. It truly amazes me the things we sometimes don't see ourselves, I mean I rarely see my back besides photos obviously and photo proof of hard work is rewarding. I would like to share two more photos from that day in my front and back pose.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigHSnqEIRAwx1Sg40oXPRHdj_3Eb_jM98KlRa1gyevtKkLyTIRYKSWLUJA9txwSiGuej6Tht525dsxaoWq0_GHEt8A0_jmAECPf6PeZuz0EqZU9ai3ZVS4mGKquqDAE2i2GiNGG315apU/s1600/believing-in-yourself-quotes-fair-believing-in-yourself-quotes-plus-awesome-believe-in-yourself-get.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="732" data-original-width="732" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigHSnqEIRAwx1Sg40oXPRHdj_3Eb_jM98KlRa1gyevtKkLyTIRYKSWLUJA9txwSiGuej6Tht525dsxaoWq0_GHEt8A0_jmAECPf6PeZuz0EqZU9ai3ZVS4mGKquqDAE2i2GiNGG315apU/s320/believing-in-yourself-quotes-fair-believing-in-yourself-quotes-plus-awesome-believe-in-yourself-get.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: left;">We haven't taken my body fat in weeks, my coach Chris likes to base things off of weight. In these photos I was the same weight I was when I stepped on stage four years ago but much, much leaner. I am currently two pounds below that weight with four weeks to go. There have been times when I've felt maybe I should be pushing harder but I really am thrilled with how this process has gone. Her different approach to this cut has definitely worked and brought about a much different outcome.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last week I had a work conference in Florida, I was able to go early and spend a few days with my best friend David. It was a much needed break even though I have to admit traveling while cutting can be difficult. The Atlanta airport is amazing they had this restaurant that served salmon and eggs, it was perfect. I also preplanned and was able to get groceries there for plenty of protein waffles, egg whites, chicken and David knowing this process had protein cookies and bars for me. He went through my two previous competitions with me and knows just how tough it is and how important it is to stay on track, especially in the final weeks. We had a great time, he is majorly into Halloween and I was able to help him get his Halloween stuff moved from storage to the garage. Of course some fun photos had to be taken as well :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I wish we weren't so far away from each other but the time together was completely rejuvenating. I'm not sure about any of you but I hope you are lucky to have friends who are truly a part of your soul, that is David for me. He cheers me on in every aspect of my life and helps me believe in myself on the days I have a really hard time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After a few days in Sarasota with David I was off to Orlando for the Teamsters Women's Conference. It was wonderful, my co-worker was with me with her family and we had a great time. The classes were awesome and being surrounded by so many strong, hard working, enthusiastic women was just awesome! Of course I had to get my gym time in while I was there as well and even left an awesome sweat mark on one of the benches with part of a saying on the tank tops we made for our summer events with our gym. The back of the shirts say "Find Your Strong" in blue font and "In You" is in white font. A funny moment happened that day as I walked on the treadmill to warm up. There was an older gentleman next to me and he looked at me and said, "I know you aren't here to do cardio", it just made me giggle. That led to a conversation about my participation in the sport of body building and he was so encouraging, it was a wonderful moment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The stressful part of this cut has had to do with our gym. We are short on trainers so I have had to fill in quite a bit which has led to some 13 hour days, which I am not used to in any way. Sleep is very important during this process to help your muscles recover. I am a sleeper normally but lately I have had a hard time getting good sleep. I've added in Melatonin which is definitely helping. The day I flew back from Florida I landed at 4:20pm and taught the 5:30pm and 6:30pm classes that night and the 6:00am class the following morning. That day completely drained me and I am still working on recovering from it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am looking forward to a weekend of quiet. Yes I have my normal kickboxing, weight training and posing with my coach but that is just a few hours of my Saturday and Sunday. Having my husband as my trainer and knowing he fully understands this process, has gone through it with me before is such an insane blessing. I know this weekend he will encourage me to nap, hydrate and recover. Our daughter is the sweetest as she also remembers my last two competitions and how tough the final weeks can be. She is now 11, and will be 12 in just three weeks! It blows my mind how she just wants to help around the house, make sure I am getting rest and encouraging me so much. She just told me last night how excited she is for the competition weekend and to watch me on stage again. I have surprised myself with pushing through all that has come along during this prep and know that these next four weeks will fly by.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9XaMROwLJ-oAIkSq3epacv66sKRdI7LdJntjCiI2BTPhN6VJUWqJFYdAPEo1UQroK5ABqixJUBc4wjv87rxdwKrUTmmuTHYVIkQjEua_H52LMocLozuBJ9fHmRK8Z_-B6eo-Uz1W6450/s1600/stay-strong-because-you-are-a-warrior-gymquotes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9XaMROwLJ-oAIkSq3epacv66sKRdI7LdJntjCiI2BTPhN6VJUWqJFYdAPEo1UQroK5ABqixJUBc4wjv87rxdwKrUTmmuTHYVIkQjEua_H52LMocLozuBJ9fHmRK8Z_-B6eo-Uz1W6450/s320/stay-strong-because-you-are-a-warrior-gymquotes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-85478022283514766822018-07-05T15:10:00.000-05:002018-07-05T15:19:46.880-05:00What is Natural Figure Competing?<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Many people who are not into natural bodybuilding may not really know what it is all about. I hope I can shed some light on the topic for anyone interested in finding out more about it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As a physically active person my entire life part of that has been weight training. I just love to lift weights, I always have and my husband is who first introduced me to the world of bodybuilding. He had a personal training client that he coached for a competition and from there I chose to compete myself. Now there are many different categories, the sport has grown quite a bit in the four years I have been away from it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In order to compete in an any natural federation, there are many, such as NANBF, NGA, INBA, ANBF to name a few you must be a natural athlete. That means you cannot take steroids, growth hormones, prescription diuretics and more. Each federation has specific lists of banned substances that athletes are not allowed to take. When you compete you are required to take a polygraph test before the competition and a urinalysis right after you compete.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I personally prefer to participate in natural competitions because I have zero interest in taking any of the banned substances to enhance my physique. For me it is all about hard work, discipline and most importantly nutrition. It takes time to build muscle and proper nutrition to fuel and help build those muscles.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb0ijveL44UBSlxJFQ9A_daIH3lvfQLtRk1t_1kkB-WoxGrxUHv4ksOWob5OLZpLEyd50ou6nRFrFA_Uo9YIr2odkyERrp5TE4VMz9BDIMv8pGVcXXdZg41G47LcCAjXumLml0vJeq4eQ/s1600/large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb0ijveL44UBSlxJFQ9A_daIH3lvfQLtRk1t_1kkB-WoxGrxUHv4ksOWob5OLZpLEyd50ou6nRFrFA_Uo9YIr2odkyERrp5TE4VMz9BDIMv8pGVcXXdZg41G47LcCAjXumLml0vJeq4eQ/s320/large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This fall I will be competing in the <a href="http://www.nationalgym.com/index.html">NGA</a> federation. My choice was based on the timing of competitions. I have a daughter and she comes first in my life, no matter what. Do I dedicate a lot of time to training? Yep. Do I dedicate a lot of time to meal prepping? Yep. Do I dedicate a lot of time to posing practice? Yep. She watches me do all of these things and you know what, she ENCOURAGES me, she is PROUD of me and she is learning that a woman can work a full-time job, run a gym, make time for family and friends all while doing the "crazy" things it takes to compete. I had chosen a competition in my home town but it fell on her birthday, I talked to her about it and she asked me to choose a different competition. Without missing a beat I immediately looked for a different weekend to compete and it will be the weekend after her birthday. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My very first competition happened to be the weekend of her birthday, the day of the competition was my mom's birthday and my sweet Bella's birthday was the following Sunday. It was a wonderful weekend full of support from my family for my competition and we celebrated both my mom and Bella that following Sunday. Bella even participated in the kids "showdown" and received her very own medal.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXnUnozjeqDzha-NQZwnGB8WZKtzrgQYieSeO7r1rK5VMAoi7AVDpAsgjVPjJRfwsuGfZjGX5m4m-Y216bhxE900jQzxuj8hMkOwHyBV5uCmq37g5PmPUDEIeM7oi6IYcga9Au0hwDyg/s1600/1235109_10151929246545726_1604080735_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="717" data-original-width="960" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXnUnozjeqDzha-NQZwnGB8WZKtzrgQYieSeO7r1rK5VMAoi7AVDpAsgjVPjJRfwsuGfZjGX5m4m-Y216bhxE900jQzxuj8hMkOwHyBV5uCmq37g5PmPUDEIeM7oi6IYcga9Au0hwDyg/s320/1235109_10151929246545726_1604080735_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ZDogmWWCisSg5cW0Pa-wxCZFJSVvJS0G6nYz_0IKAruj_8J2ZpitcXjDup-TjXzQXqvquFaAH5cSuvyR3IgawTLJ5XwZKp3drGeCn8-6FJ-0FSu3pLxxP12OqIqgJpRGBUkhXDSe8fs/s1600/1391996_10151929269145726_384840456_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ZDogmWWCisSg5cW0Pa-wxCZFJSVvJS0G6nYz_0IKAruj_8J2ZpitcXjDup-TjXzQXqvquFaAH5cSuvyR3IgawTLJ5XwZKp3drGeCn8-6FJ-0FSu3pLxxP12OqIqgJpRGBUkhXDSe8fs/s320/1391996_10151929269145726_384840456_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This sport certainly takes dedication but it doesn't mean it has to consume your entire life. I am in cutting mode so yes there are days when I am not having that beer I may want or a piece of cake. That is MY choice and honestly I do not feel deprived. I have THE best coach with Chris Goodman of <a href="https://www.gps-coaching.net/">GPS Coaching</a> guiding me, if I want that beer I can certainly make it fit into my macros. 20 weeks of cutting are part of the sport I choose to participate in, there are much worse choices I could be making.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Figure is the category I compete in because frankly I don't feel I have the size for physique and you really have to get LEAN in physique. Bikini isn't really my style, I just don't have the "sass" it requires and I don't have the desire to put on the size required for the actual bodybuilding category and you must be even leaner than the physique competitors.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Figure judging encompasses symmetry of the physique, overly bulky and striated muscles are not encouraged for Figure but I have seen plenty of competitions where women do very well with striated muscles. The idea is to have a toned, proportioned and feminine physique. The tricky part is that for each judge they could have a different idea of what they are looking for in a competitor. That is why it is so very important to go into this sport for yourself and to compete against yourself. You may step on that stage presenting your best physique but another competitor could have slightly better posing presentation or the judges could prefer another competitors look to yours. These ladies who compete together are all about cheering one another on and sharing in the joy of simply competing.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmCcOnVKqp0khusm02zwgJ6OvUqi6Ey70LA0-_sDrqn7vxI6JNog0hlx_dWd_SqCAFteI7EShTmTfOOr_1miNvNsvguo5m9FH1mLXehT_6f1RA9DSyQvZbEJX8BlYQQCisbpuiIVxXGko/s1600/comparison.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="403" data-original-width="403" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmCcOnVKqp0khusm02zwgJ6OvUqi6Ey70LA0-_sDrqn7vxI6JNog0hlx_dWd_SqCAFteI7EShTmTfOOr_1miNvNsvguo5m9FH1mLXehT_6f1RA9DSyQvZbEJX8BlYQQCisbpuiIVxXGko/s320/comparison.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Starting off that was hard for me and a reason I took four years off. I had to get myself into a better place mentally and life also had other plans for me. As I go through this process again there is change in me. I am relaxed and enjoying myself as I slowly change. My mindset is on bringing the best ME to the stage in October, the outcome shall be what it may and I will be happy regardless. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You have mandatory poses you must do on stage to present your physique to the judges. You have your front pose, side pose, back pose, side pose. It is a quarter turn into each pose and rather than make hard transitions making smooth "pretty" transitions are what you work for. Even in my four years away I still practiced my mandatory poses, I can say that has paid off for me big time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now that you have hopefully learned a little bit about the sport I truly love here are some comparison photos in my first few weeks of cutting. This is my first time doing a longer cut and I am so happy that Chris approached me to take me on as her sponsored athlete and guide me as she has. Finding a good coach is HUGE, I can't possibly say enough good things about her. She has her clients best interest at heart, she is honest and she is knowledgeable, continually learning as the sport evolves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am slowly leaning out and seeing more muscle definition. I will continue to share comparison photos because it is truly is crazy how the body changes during this process. Always remember, do what makes YOU happy. As long as you are able to be present in your life and enjoy your hobby don't let anyone dim your shine or minimize your personal goals. Those who truly support you in life help to bring you up rather than bring you down because they do not understand what YOU choose to do in your life.</span></div>
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Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-28742249144478247012018-07-02T09:41:00.000-05:002018-07-02T09:41:32.119-05:00My First Spartan Sprint<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A week ago I ran my first Spartan Sprint in Richmond, IL at Richmond Hunt Club. There was a lot of rain in the week leading up to the race which made for a very muddy course. I wasn't quite sure what to expect and knew it would be tougher than any other obstacle race I've ran before.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We had a great team from our gym, I just love how involved everyone is becoming in running different events together. I know personally it would be tough to get through a race like this without the support of my team.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This race was a birthday gift for my husband. He loves this kind of stuff and he has wanted to run a Spartan for a long time. Of course I signed us both up but I was the one who was a bit fearful of the race.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thankfully the weather was perfect. It wasn't too humid, there was no rain and the heat wasn't too bad. I tried my best to hydrate a lot the day before and in the morning before we ran. There was so much excitement on the bus as we headed to the race location.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We arrived early so we could get a few pictures before we got all muddy. The atmosphere was amazing!!!! There was just so much energy and people cheering on everyone my nerves turned a bit more into excitement :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Starting off right away we had walls to climb over, thankfully they start off small. I could not believe the deep mud we had to run through. Having Traci to run with was such a blessing. She is such a beast and I learned a lot from her on this course. My expectations for myself were to just get through it, my grip strength in my right hand isn't the best. I did not make it through the monkey bars or the twister, thankfully my team helped through my many burpees. The up/down motion of burpees really gets to me and makes me nearly faint.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We got a nice group photo in the corn field at this point our group had kind of broken into separate groups with some going on ahead. We also had the plate drag which was super easy for me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The major mud came from the barbed wire crawl, SO MUCH MUD!!!! It was fun though but man it was tough getting through that thick mud. From there it was onto the dunk wall (which I was scared of from the name) but it was easy, especially when one side wasn't really under the water.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The bucket carry wasn't bad, I carried the men's bucket with Traci. Seriously she pushed me to be stronger than I know I am and I was damn proud of myself for carrying that bucket. I didn't make the spear throw, who would have thought that would be so difficult? There were major moments of frustration but I don't practice throwing spears very often ;)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thankfully one of our members had a little fanny pack with her and I had some glucose tablets in there and they were very much needed. After doing the sandbag carry, which felt easy, when I took it off my shoulders I nearly fainted on the spot. Another member who runs a LOT of Spartans with his wife had some Clif Shot energy gel and it was just what I needed to keep going.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One of the final obstacles was my biggest fear, the high cargo net A-frame. I literally had tears as we approached it and was in my head before we even got to it. Kyle grabbed my hand as we got to it, he and Traci just kept repeating to me that I could do this and they would be right beside me. As we started to climb I was just freaked out, members who finished before us were watching and they didn't want to cheer me on because they could see me shaking all the way up and were afraid they would distract me. Traci kept telling me not to look down, which was hard to do. When I got to the top I wanted to climb back down but I didn't. With their guidance I got myself over it and completed the obstacle with tears and big hugs from Traci and Kyle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It took us just over three hours to finish. I applaud everyone who runs these races, especially the regular Spartans and Spartan Beasts, I can't imagine running either of those. There will be more Spartan Sprints in my future but not this year. It was an awesome bonding experience for our members who ran it and everyone did so amazing!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next year depending on my goals I may try for the Spartan Trifecta but we shall see. For now I am back to focusing on my training for the October Figure Competition. My bruises are healing and my heart is full, so many wonderful memories were made and I am proud of our accomplishment!</span></div>
Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-6078831119514492002018-06-06T12:59:00.000-05:002018-06-06T12:59:08.539-05:0020 Weeks Out<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Saturday my journey officially began with Chris Goodman of GPS Coaching for the NGA Natural Peoria Championships on October 20th.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am so excited to learn from Chris and prep in a different way. She has started me off with a caloric reduction and varying days for carb/protein/fat amounts. I will have two high carb days, two medium carb days and three low carb days. Kyle is having me weight train five days a week. Allowing 20 weeks for the prep will give us time to play around with the numbers and see what best suits my body.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With this prep I do have a "new to me" challenge. My body seems to continually be changing, not sure if it is my age or what. My menstrual cycle has changed dramatically which led to me talking with my doctor. I have multiple fibroids and will be meeting with an OBGYN to discuss treatment options. Having just had surgery to have my right thyroid removed last November I am hoping we can find a solution that does not involve surgery. Regardless I am going to give it my all throughout this prep and deal with the not so fun time of the month and just get through it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My weight starting off is 149 pounds. Chris is not concerned with my body fat, she goes off of measurements and pictures/check ins rather than checking body fat. That is a big change for me, I can still have Kyle do it because I am going to be curious about that number, it's just the way I am.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So here I was two weeks out from my last competition which was in May 2014.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here I am currently, 20 weeks out from my next competition.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My weight training over the last four years has not been consistent the entire time. I would have time frames of taking a couple months off due to health issues both physical and mental. Even with that I am happy to see the growth in my back, my lats are much wider which helps to make my waist look smaller. I really have been trying to grow my "wings" and what Kyle had me doing has definitely worked!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Since January I have been very consistent with my training and nutrition. To see the pictures and know I have 20 weeks of cutting, it just gives me butterflies of excitement to see how I end up for the competition. Now as I go through this journey I know there will be voices questioning why and judging me, it has already begun. Even those closest to you sometimes cannot understand the journey you choose and will view you with eyes of judgement. But this journey is for ME and I choose to compete because I truly enjoy it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Even though comments can sting, and they may not be made with that intention, I will move on from them and remember I am not doing this for anyone else but myself. My biggest piece of advice for anyone that considers competing is to know that there will ALWAYS be someone who judges you but as long as you are doing it for the right reasons you can move past it and ignore the haters.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is going to be a fun journey for me and I am so pumped to see the changes in my body as we go along. It is fascinating to slowly lose the body fat and see all of the muscles hiding underneath. So here we go, a journey that may seem crazy and silly to some, but one that I choose to undertake with joy and love for myself.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-28092112500526506142018-05-23T12:46:00.001-05:002018-05-23T12:46:20.912-05:00The Gladiator Assault Challenge<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One day long ago I was a runner. I have ran multiple half marathons but after injuries and pursuing different goals running hasn't been a big part of my training.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">However I do enjoy obstacle races but have only participated in small ones. My husband and Traci decided to put a team together for our gym to participate in the Gladiator Assault Challenge. I was all for it, then I realized it was six miles long with 31 obstacles and on a ski hill. I went into it not really knowing what to fully expect but I was excited that we had 17 people on our team and knew everyone would be supportive and help one another through the course.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our group consisted of runners, obstacle race participants and a few first time obstacle race participants. As with any race there was a lot of excitement and adrenaline before the race began. To get to the start you first had to walk up the very steep ski hill, no joke I was tired just walking up that dang hill.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kyle and Traci were keeping me upbeat and excited before the actual start. We began running back down the huge hill we walked up and went straight over two mud hills that you had to slide down into some cold water. We got crazy muddy right off the bat and my shoes were so heavy with mud!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At the beginning we all stayed together pretty much running along and having fun in the mud. Once we hit the timber area with some very steep inclines and muddy trails our group split into about three groups. Traci, who I know could have just ran that race, stayed with me the entire time. Encouraging me through each obstacle because there were some that I was simply fearful of. Kyle would get ahead a bit and then circle back to make sure I was doing alright. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My fears for this race were climbing over the walls, heights get to me and my biggest fear was going into water underneath a chain length fence and pulling yourself through. I was fine climbing up the wall but once I was up there fear took over, they were slick with mud and I would freeze wondering if I could do it. Traci was right beside me at the top guiding me down with Kyle at the bottom cheering me on and reminding me that I could do it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Of course the final obstacle was the one I feared the most. I stood there for a few moments contemplating skipping it. Traci once again was right beside me, encouraging me and I just decided to go for it. This picture isn't of me, it is one of our members who went through it but this is what it was.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was actually doing great until I got to the end. Another competitor accidentally bumped into me and pushed me against the side, I hit my head on the top part of the fence and was stuck for about five seconds. That five seconds was enough to make me panic, thankfully he realized he had bumped me and he pulled me out. It was so scary but I did it!!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Overcoming my fears was what this race was all about and I did every single obstacle. It was such an awesome event and having our amazing Kosama team made it one of the best races I have ever participated in.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I could not have done it without the support and encouragement from everyone, especially Traci and Kyle. Teamwork is what these races are all about for us. Playing in the mud was fun, I was exhausted by the end but still smiling.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am the girl who loves to dress up and wear high heels. Traci is the girl who loves to get muddy and run. We make quite the team and I know I wouldn't have been able to get through the race like I did without her. Kyle encouraged me and as usual his belief in me is stronger than my own belief in myself. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With that race in the books I move forward with my weight training and preparation for the October competition. We are running the Spartan Sprint in Chicago in June, it makes me nervous just typing that out. I know it will be tough and the obstacles will be more difficult along with the burpees you do when you can't pass an obstacle. Traci and Kyle will be there along with other Kosamies and I know we will have fun.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Always believe in yourself, this was an awesome experience with some of the strongest, most supportive people in my life. I am blessed!</span></div>
Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-32683786944133979852018-05-16T14:03:00.000-05:002018-05-16T14:04:53.559-05:00NANBF Natural Iowa Championships<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What a whirlwind of a weekend we had with Traci! First of all I have to give a huge shout out to Ryan and Mandy Irwin for putting on yet another fantastic show at the <a href="http://naturaliowamuscle.com/">NANBF Natural Iowa Championships</a>. Even with it running a bit behind it was such an awesome experience, I highly recommend this competition for anyone looking to compete in a family friendly, supportive atmosphere.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Traci started training at our gym last summer and approached Kyle about competing. We were so thrilled to have someone come to us looking for coaching and guidance. Traci is a runner and a very active person, she runs Spartan races for fun and kills it every time she runs. When you go into competing, especially at the Figure, Physique and especially Bodybuilding level it is ideal to already have a higher caloric intake and lower cardio output in the beginning to build muscle mass and make your cutting phase easier.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We knew with Traci it would be basically an experiment as she had never competed before, her caloric intake was very low and she was already used to doing a lot of cardio. She took our advice and increased her calories for a mini bulk the first few months. During that phase she hit PR's on her lifts, got stronger and put on some pounds. This process can really mess with your mind, my goal was to be there for her every step of the way ensuring her that the weight gain was ok and it was needed in order to gain muscle mass.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our training sessions together are always a blast. To think I met Traci just over 8 months ago and we have bonded like sisters. From saying the same exact thing at the same moment, to laughing at the same time, having the same eye roll response to Kyle as he tells us just a few more reps or seconds. This woman has to have been someone close to me in another lifetime. She pushes me to train harder and taking care of her on this journey was my primary focus even though she also took care of me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When the competition weekend came I couldn't believe how quickly it was upon us. Traci had her polygraph, natural competitions always require a polygraph to ensure athletes are not taking banned substances, and her spray tan. Competition spray tans are nothing like your regular spray tan, they are DARK to ensure the muscles show with great definition under the strong stage lights. It was kind of a late night but we had fun with her niece Jordyn and my daughter Bella as we went over Traci's mandatory poses and t-walk.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The morning came quickly and we were off to the location, thankfully we got there nice and early to realize I couldn't find the numbers Traci was to wear on her bikini but the promoter Ryan was awesome and took care of that for us. Talk about feeling like a complete idiot. Then we headed off to get her makeup done at the host hotel and then it was back to the venue to really get her ready to go.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I was so thrilled to have Chris Goodman with <a href="https://www.gps-coaching.net/">GPS Coaching</a>, Traci's posing coach and my sponsor for my October competition, back stage with us. She brought a nice level of calm and worked with Traci on her posing and pumping up. This was my first time working with a competitor and I know on my own personal journey with Chris I will continue to get better and learn so much from her.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Traci was a little nervous but honestly held it together very well. This is such an incredibly emotional experience for everyone. You work so hard and when your day to compete arrives you can feel such a massive flood of emotions. I had to hold back my own tears of pride so I wouldn't make Traci cry :) Traci went into this for herself, she was proud she went through the process and made it to the stage and she had no expectations of placing. She did fantastic with her posing, Chris and I were in the audience and Chris would yell her cues. Yes you can hear Chris and tell the difference of her voice among all the others yelling, she seriously has THE BEST cuing!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Traci competed in Figure Novice Tall and Figure 40+ Tall, all of the competitors were amazing, they were some stacked classes!!! Traci held her poses well, it's tough standing on those heels and gracefully transitioning into the next quarter turn, it takes practice, practice, practice! How gorgeous does she look???</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When they did call outs for top five in Figure Novice Tall and I heard her number I lost it. I am a loud person and man I could not stop cheering!!!! Traci earned 5th place in that class and she was shocked!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Afterwards she talked about how we had never practiced what happens when they call out your number for placing and she was right! She handled it well though and looked so stunning on that stage among the other competitors, each one was just so impressive.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There may be thoughts out there that something like this can have a feeling a cattiness. Well let me be the first to tell you that backstage all of these women are each others biggest supporters, cheering each other on and feeling genuine joy for each other. Each and every competitor goes through intense training and the cutting phase can be daunting. Once you are all together it is like this huge sisterhood and I just love it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Congratulations to Traci for overcoming so much on this journey, thank you for trusting in Kyle, myself and Chris we couldn't be more honored you chose us. The only way I can describe my own feelings that day is like this, I felt like a proud momma, I cried when I watched her on stage, I cried when she received her award, it was extremely emotional.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now we have a mud run this coming Saturday, that is Traci's area of expertise so she will be helping me through it. Then I continue on with my training for October with Kyle handling my weight training and Chris handling my nutrition and cardio. I am ready for this part of my own journey and am excited to have Traci as part of it!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-63775046982171649422018-05-08T21:27:00.000-05:002018-05-09T07:54:40.294-05:00The Stars Aligned<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It has been four years since I competed in my last figure competition. I had a lot of fun doing it and knew that I wanted to continue to compete. Life had other plans for me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana";">I suffered some injuries from various things, the big one was IT Band Syndrome after a half marathon. It set me back big time, our family was going through some struggle, there seemed to be chaos all around me and I let it get to me. For almost two years I wasn't as consistent with my training and I found myself looking at someone I didn't know and realized something had to change.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My husband had accepted a job as the GM for a gym, <a href="https://www.kosama.com/cedarrapids">Kosama Cedar Rapids</a> and I began to get more involved. The end result, as we know, was Kyle and I accepting the amazing offer to take over the gym. In 2016 I really started to get myself back on track. I was reminded how good it felt to be consistent in the gym and I was learning new things by training with kettle bells and TRX. Kyle and I were just so thrilled and possibly not fully realizing what it truly meant to take over. Thankfully we have had the guidance and support of the amazing people who gave us this opportunity, Matt and Heidi.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana";">We hit some bumps along the way, learning who we couldn't truly trust in our business, that there were people who would try to take advantage. Last year was our most challenging year and honestly there were days I didn't know how to push through. Myself working a separate full-time job, taking on a position as the Treasurer for a non-profit, trying to become more involved at the gym while also making sure our daughter wasn't feeling left out, keeping up with things at home, and dealing with major personal challenges from a dryer fire in our home to major stressors at work due to uncontrollable changes to finding out I would have to have my right thyroid removed and have nodules tested for cancer and my mom dealing with her own major health issues. I almost broke.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana";">After getting through the surgery and finding out I did not have thyroid cancer, taking off the time I needed to recover I was ready to get back at it. One of our new members at the gym talked to Kyle about figure competing. It was a bucket list goal for her and she asked if he could train her for a May competition. I met with her so I could fill her in a bit on what it would take to compete. We instantly bonded and have been training partners ever since. Traci came into my life when at just the right moment, I was really ready to get serious about weight training again and she was ready to train with someone that would push her. I set my own goal to compete again in October.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKBa5rXNVAf6ZNZkToooXSrU8Y7w7GG2s11fFmZBtJofJJ3p75XixCDste7PzflIDq86pXplC281IDJjph76sCY_aPre6aOyvCfV09FuitV9uH00gM3olK89cEDqdoxFpGhI7BMUXcha4/s1600/Chris+%2526+I.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Traci was looking for a posing coach and was referred to a woman that I knew of, Chris Goodman. I knew she was an NANBF judge and a pro bodybuilder herself. The first posing practice when we met was awesome, the three of us just clicked. We decided that the focus would be on Traci for her May competition and then I would get coaching for my October competition. Traci has come leaps and bounds from where she started and Chris is just phenomenal in how she coaches. Her cues are spot on and easy to follow, she is so much fun and she is honest.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana";">This past Saturday was Traci's final posing session before her competition this coming Saturday. Chris and I were chatting about my competition in October and she offered to sponsor me.........I was shocked!!! Kyle and I did my preps before, he will still be training me but Chris is taking over my nutrition and cardio. To hand that over to someone else is kind of freeing for me and I am so pumped for this journey with Chris.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am truly honored and blessed to have this opportunity, thank you to Chris for believing in me and bringing me onto team <a href="https://www.gps-coaching.net/">GPS Coaching</a>! Now for the hard work and FUN ahead of me. I have been weight training for 18 years and it is something I truly love, competing is just the icing on the cake for me. It truly is hard work and takes dedication which is why I had to take the time off that I did. I am ready and I have the full support of my family, especially my daughter, my friends, and so many who believe in me.</span></div>
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Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-45003366648044185022018-04-04T10:27:00.000-05:002018-04-04T10:31:36.860-05:00Our Dream, Our Passion<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My husband and I have been involved in fitness our entire lives. His passion was soccer he played throughout high school and played for Coe College here in Iowa. That was back when I met him, we had so much in common and I am blessed that he chose to stay here in Iowa with me rather than going back to Oregon where he grew up. My passion was track and volleyball and then I found weight training.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Throughout our life together he searched for a good fit but just couldn't find the right gym to train with. He also worked for nutrition stores such as GNC and Complete Nutrition, great places just still not what he truly wanted to do.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A few years ago when he became the GM of Kosama, a gym that was brand new to us, we never could have imagined the path it would take us down. Kosama is a group fitness gym that teaches kickboxing along with kettle bell and TRX strength training. This style of training was new for both of us we were accustomed to the "standard" style of strength training in the gyms we belonged to.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Both of us fell in love with this new style of training, while keeping our standard strength training in the mix as well. Kickboxing has become my favorite form of cardio, there is nothing like hitting and kicking a bag to some awesome music surrounded by amazing people who are all pushing each other to do their best. We were so blessed that the owners saw such potential in Kyle and I working together, they could see we were both so passionate about fitness and offered us to take over. One of our biggest dreams ever, that we never thought would be possible had been presented to us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We were honestly scared but more excited than scared. Kyle and I knew between the two of us we could create something truly amazing. As time has gone on we've added our own personal touches to <a href="http://www.kosama.com/cedarrapids/">Kosama Cedar Rapids</a>. Kyle runs his own little camps that include K-Performance which is the personal training portion of our gym. We work with athletes from soccer players to Spartan racers to figure competitors and more. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Watching people transform themselves and learn to live a healthier lifestyle while having fun and not being crazy restricted when it comes to food is indescribable. We believe in eating to live, you can eat your favorite foods and still meet your fitness goals. The nutrition side is my own personal passion, I love creating meal plans and am working towards educating myself more because you can never know enough about nutrition! Our community of trainers/coaches, members and clients is a close community. Every single person supports one another, we cheer each other on at races, games and in the gym.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am blessed, we are blessed. The video below was made by our dear friends Arsalan and Krystal Monawar who own <a href="http://monawarstudios.com/">Monawar Studios</a>. Their incredible talent and vision created this amazing short video showing snippets of all we do. We made this almost two years ago, much has changed since then but this still gives me chills and makes me so proud my heart could burst.</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/195297926" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe>
<a href="https://vimeo.com/195297926">KOSAMA | #WeAreKosamaCR</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/monawarstudios">Monawar Studios</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-25041367596760115602018-03-27T15:25:00.001-05:002018-03-27T15:28:38.044-05:00Heavy Lifting<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Let's talk goals, what are your goals for 2018? Goals are so important, in all facets of life. For me personally on my fitness journey it helps to hold myself accountable and when you hit those goals, whether they are big or small, it feels AMAZING!!!! The importance of having a plan while you work towards your goals, surrounding yourself with people who support you and having qualified guidance is key.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I have the best tribe surrounding me from my family, especially my husband and coach, my friends, gym besties they all support me even if their idea of fitness is different from mine. So far I am signed up for two races which means I better get my butt back to running again soon! Lunch hour runs keep being pushed off thanks to mother nature, if I had better gear I would get out in the cold. I will get there though, the races are obstacle races and the idea is to just have fun :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Building some muscle is my main goal so that this summer I can begin my cut for a fall figure competition. My coach has created a great plan for me, the best part about our partnership other than he is one of the most informative, knowledgeable and inspiring human beings I know, well husband is what I like to call him most ;) He plans my training and after training together for more than 15 years he truly knows what works for me best. Then I get my calories and macro count from him and create my own meal plans. Currently I am getting in higher amounts of protein and then equal amounts of carbs and fat. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We are working hard to find our balance between running our gym, myself working my full-time job and enjoying our life with our beautiful daughter. It can be so HARD sometimes, there are many days when I feel as though I am failing in one aspect or even all of them. We are working hard because we really are living a dream and we know just how fortunate we are.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">During my training so far I have been going for deadlift PR's on Saturday's. "End" goal for me is 300# I was pleasantly surprised two Saturdays ago when I pulled 220#. It didn't necessarily feel easy but it also wasn't so hard that I felt shaky during the lift. Next time I know I will be pulling more. Deadlifting is such a great exercise when done properly, you engage so many muscle groups!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As we've been going through so many changes (with more to come) a lot of wonderful people have come into our life. When I make those heavy lifts I have one the greatest training partners pushing me along with Kyle. Her name is Traci and we met just six months ago, she had an interest in competing and decided to have Kyle coach her and to train with me. It is amazing how common goals can bring people so close in a very short amount of time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Two and a half years ago I wrote a blog about <a href="http://stephiegkicksthefat.blogspot.com/2015/10/the-perfect-workout-buddy.html">lifting buddies</a> and it seems so fitting. It has taken me that long to find someone with the same drive, goals and lifting attitude as myself. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am blessed, so very blessed. Not blessed because of luck but blessed because we have worked HARD to get to where we are and we couldn't do it without those who support us. Just as you must work hard to achieve any fitness goal you must do the same in life. Keep your supporters close and if you are like me LIFT HEAVY!</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7412434654939253780.post-29294617472339357762017-10-11T09:29:00.004-05:002017-10-11T09:29:51.927-05:00A Familiar Journey Begins<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Setting goals for 2018 has begun! I will be training to compete in Figure and also running another half marathon. These two goals came about in a way that makes them feel "meant to be".</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The half marathon I am running is the <a href="http://damtodam.com/">Dam to Dam</a> in Des Moines. I have ran this race before and it is my favorite half marathon. Starting off out in the country and heading into Des Moines, it is such a beautiful run and fairly flat. The community is always out supporting the runners and I get to run with family and friends. This is the last Dam to Dam half marathon which really pushed me to decide to run it. I am sad the race is coming to an end but I look forward to running it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After fully deciding on my goals I was hit with another little speed bump. I had a bad cold and decided to go to a walk in clinic a couple of weeks ago. The doctor said I had a virus but became concerned because my right thyroid was swollen. In 2011 I had a biopsy done on a nodule in my thyroid, it was benign and I haven't had any issues. My labs all came back normal so the doctor scheduled me for an ultrasound the next day. The day after the ultrasound I had an appointment with an ENT because there were two nodules in my thyroid. The decision was made to remove my right thyroid, I am having the procedure done in November. When the doctor removes the thyroid they will test the nodules for cancer and if either is cancer they will also remove the left thyroid. Thankfully the chance of cancer is very slim and the hope is that my left thyroid will be able to fully function with the right thyroid removed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was a bit of a shock to me going from having a bad to cold to needing surgery to have my right thyroid removed. The cold kicked my butt for the past two weeks but I finally started feeling better and made it to the gym last weekend for my first workout with the gal who will be competing with me next year. It will be her first competition and I am so excited to be on this journey with her.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My attitude is back to "me vs. me" and that is where it needs to stay. I have been tired and felt a bit beat down this year. Learning to keep moving forward has been something I am working on without quitting. Knowing I have a partner in this prep makes me more excited to compete again. There is just something about surrounding yourself with positive, strong, good people and Tracy is exactly that type of person.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There is a lot of work to be done, I feel quite a bit weaker from so much time off from weight training but I know the strength will come back. Running has been on the back burner for quite a while and I will have to be patient with my progress but it will feel good to get back at it!</span>Stephanie Griffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04500576427653535890noreply@blogger.com14