September Goals

weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle

Happy Wednesday, my friends! Quite a few of you have reached out asking for updates on the fitness front and my weight loss story and I’m thrilled that you are interested! However, I’ve seriously neglected you and for that, I’m sorry. I’m working on putting together a few posts that I hope you will find both inspirational and helpful!

becoming more flexible with bar method

I started my third month of Bar Method a few weeks ago and it’s safe to say I’m addicted. While it’s painfully clear that dancing was never my strong suit, I’ve already seen an increase in my flexibility, which keeps me coming back for more. Once I wrap up the month, I’ll be back with a detailed look at Bar Method and its never-ending list of benefits, as well as some tips + tricks on how to be successful in the class.

Now, onto the scary stuff. I’m running my third half marathon Sunday and the only word that comes to mind is: shit. I was far more prepared to run the Rock the Parkway Half Marathon and the KCCC Half Marathon than I am now and I feel panicky. I haven’t ran more than 4 miles at a time since I started “training” and that’s just down-right terrifying if you ask me. And maybe a little stupid on my part. My friend Meg is running the half with me and she’s in the same boat, so we’ve decided to alternate between running 4 minutes and recovering with a walk to see how that goes. Annica suggested the idea, but I’m curious, have any of you gone this route before?

weight loss update

Thanks to the best photog ever, Alissa! She also shot that nifty new head shot you see in all my social profiles 😉

jump for your health!
I mentioned last week that I’m going to participate in The Everygirl’s 30-Day Challenge for the month of September, with focus centering around self-improvement and growth. This topic leaves a lot of room for interpretation, but I’m focusing on my health and wellness. Perfect timing with it being the start of a new month and a fresh, new season!
My goals this month look a little something like this:
– Attend Bar Method class 4+ days a week
– Get back into a normal running routine (3+ days a week)
– Make time to clear my head each morning and night (unplug)
– Continue to follow along with TEG’s August challenge
So there you have it. Who wants to keep me accountable?!
Even if you aren’t participating in the challenge, I would love to know what your goals are for the month! Share them with me in the comments below or tweet me @26NotCounting!

Leave a Comment

55 Comments

  1. I’m sure you’ll be fine for the half! I’ve never gone that route, but I know people who have. It ain’t your first rodeo. 🙂 I’m curious about Bar Method — looking forward to see your full report!

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  2. Laura S. wrote:

    Those look like awesome goals! Very attainable too!
    I just posted my September goals over on laurasbestlife.com, I’d love it if you’d check them out!
    I ran a half marathon in August with my longest run during “training” being a 10k, so I hear ya! I think that alternating 4 minute runs with walk breaks is very doable, and it’s what I’m planning on doing as I get back into my marathon training!

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  3. Great goals! I’m going to the Class Pass launch at Daily Method and a little nervous being I have never taken one of their classes. I made a goal two months ago to take an hour when I get home from work to exercise and I have been pretty successful at keeping it! 🙂 Good luck and looking forward to meeting you at next book club.

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  4. The Adored Life wrote:

    Ohh heeeyyyy hey hey hottie. That’s all I got. 😉

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  5. Nicole wrote:

    You look amazing!!!!! I am just now getting back on the work out band wagon myself. I sleep better, feel better and (fingers crossed soon) look better. It’s so hard to get started, so I really hope I keep it up. Thanks for being so encouraging!

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  6. I’m so amazed at how often you work out! It’s truly motivation! If I’m super busy, its the first thing to go. I really like that your goals are just 4. It seems concrete enough to focus on!

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  7. Best of luck, dear! I’ll have to take a look at the Bar Method website; dancing has always been my favourite way to exercise. Thank you for inspiring me, to focus more on health! At 29, it’s a perfect time to make it a habit.

    http://rhythmandruffle.com <3

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  8. Melissa Schartz wrote:

    I signed up for another 6 weeks of HIIT so I’ll be conquering the workout front with you! I also need to start focus on Henry’s first birthday prep!

    xx
    Melissa
    http://www.lovelikejohnnyandjune.com

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  9. annie wrote:

    Clearing my head is on my list as well! I neeeeeed to relax at night. GOOD LUCK this weekend – you’ll be great! xoxo

    Annie

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  10. Katie wrote:

    You are so inspiring! I need to get on board with TEG challenges and I totally need to put down some monthly goals. I have a lot going on with my blog, so I’m hoping that I can figure out the best way to get everything done and still have time outside of work and blogging. I’ve been doing a bad job of that recently. Do you have any tips?

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  11. AnnicaNicole wrote:

    I think y’all will be pleasantly surprised with your results! I definitely wouldn’t expect a PR out of it, but y’all will rock it and you’ll be on to your next race! I need to find a half in Denver, but I’m terrified I’ll pass out half way through from my lungs not loving the altitude here.

    Annica
    http://www.lifemodifier.com

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  12. Jessica wrote:

    Here’s to hoping! Thanks again for the tip 🙂

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  13. Jessica wrote:

    Thank you, Katie 🙂 Putting my goals out there for everyone to see usually helps me stick with it. It’s hard to juggle everything that “life” entails, but you can do it!

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  14. Jessica wrote:

    It’s hard to shut off my brain, especially at night. Hopefully eliminating things that get me thinking (like my phone) will help. Thanks so much for the encouragement, Annie!

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  15. Jessica wrote:

    You are a rockstar! I can’t wait to see what the next 6 weeks brings for you. You motivate me…a lot!

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  16. Jessica wrote:

    Thank you, Toni! It’s an amazing workout. There’s no better time than the present 😉

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  17. Jessica wrote:

    Thank you SO much, Nicole! So do I. It’s crazy what a difference it makes in my mental health as well. Get it girrrl!

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  18. Jessica wrote:

    And that’s just enough 😉

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  19. Jessica wrote:

    I’ve been seeing this Class Pass things around on social media and it sounds awesome. You will be great! I’m looking forward to meeting you as well 🙂

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  20. Jessica wrote:

    Thanks for stopping by, Laura! Can’t wait to check out your list 🙂

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  21. Jessica wrote:

    Thanks, Miss Cara 🙂 I’m excited to share more about it!

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  22. Oh my gosh, 3rd half?! You are a rockstar… please kick my butt in shape! Looking forward to your new series, and I love that we are running shoe twins! 🙂

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  23. Nikki wrote:

    These are all great goals! I’ve been wanting to try a barre class, but they are so expensive. I am a yoga junkie, so my money goes towards yoga classes. I really want to run a half marathon too (this would require me to start running again…) I love your goals for Sept and the Everygirl challenge for Sept!

    Nikki
    thefashionablewife.com

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  24. Great goals for September! You’ve inspired me to participate in the TEG 30 day challenge. I’m hoping to turn off the TV and read a little every night.

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  25. You go girl! I feel like I could never run a half marathon. I can only do about a mile! haha…

    ~Jessica

    Jeans and a Teacup

    Posted 9.3.14 Reply
  26. Bar method is the best! I love going every day and a toned body is the best thing ever!

    kelseybang.com

    Posted 9.4.14 Reply
  27. Caitlin Fore wrote:

    Go girl! You will total rock your half this weekend! Good luck! As for bar method – I am really excited to hear about this. I’ve heard such good things – but I too am not so coordinated! Love your updates and positivity!

    xo,
    cait

    http://gussied-up.blogspot.com

    Posted 9.4.14 Reply
  28. You are too cute- SO proud of you for pushing through and keepin’ on. It’s toughhhhh to do, but you’re rocking it out. 🙂

    -Ashley
    http://lestylorouge.com

    Posted 9.4.14 Reply
  29. amy loochtan wrote:

    Those are great goals! I have been wanting to try Bar, but I am scared! haha

    coffeebeansandbobbypins.blogspot.com

    Posted 9.4.14 Reply
  30. Carrie wrote:

    You look great!! This was such a fun post! Good luck this weekend at the half! You will do great! 🙂 Also, I am going to look into Bar classes here in DSM. A year ago I went to one but it was almost a half hour away (aka not convenient). Maybe some more have popped up since then!

    Posted 9.4.14 Reply
  31. shannon wrote:

    Loving these pictures, you look so happy and cute! The boyfriend and I have been toying around with the idea of a half marathon…so scary! I can’t believe you will be on your third! Keep it up…your posts are always inspiring!

    Shannon
    Clothes & Quotes

    Posted 9.4.14 Reply
  32. Jessica wrote:

    Woo! I’m excited you’re going to join in, too 🙂

    Posted 9.4.14 Reply
  33. Jessica wrote:

    Hi Nikki! I don’t disagree, it’s pretty pricey. I cancelled my regular gym membership to balance things out and I’m going to stick to running outside since the temps will cool down. As for a half marathon, you got it! I never thought it was possible, but the feeling of crossing the finish line has me hooked.

    Posted 9.4.14 Reply
  34. Jessica wrote:

    Eee, I’m nervous! These shoes have been through so much with me. I wish I could find a few pairs in different colors!

    Posted 9.4.14 Reply
  35. Lyddiegal wrote:

    I think those are some really great goals, and I’m sure you will do fine with the race. I don’t think I could run for 4 minutes, period.

    Chic on the Cheap

    Posted 9.4.14 Reply
  36. Wake Up for Makeup wrote:

    Girl-your adrenaline and determination will carry you those 13.1 miles! I’m doing a half October 19th and though I’ve now run 8 miles, I’m majorly slacking on the frequency! I am lucky to get in 2 runs a week. UGH. Why is it so much hard, the older you get?!

    Posted 9.4.14 Reply
  37. Lauren Ellis wrote:

    Love your goals! I have been dying to try Bar Method for awhile now so can’t wait to hear what you think.
    Love, lo. http://www.classyandfabgirl.com

    Posted 9.4.14 Reply
  38. Looks like you have some great goals on there. I wish you the best of luck!

    Posted 9.5.14 Reply
  39. Maya McDonald wrote:

    Alissa’s a straight up magician when it comes to photos – you’re looking lovely lady! Also, I need to set some goals. Homegirl is laaaaazy these days!

    Posted 9.5.14 Reply
  40. Rachel wrote:

    These sound like awesome goals! I always seem to either be doing well with my diet or working out but never both at the same time… well time to get back on the workout grind now that I’m back from vacation! At least I “behaved” most of the time while I was away! These photos are so cute too —- and what a great head shot!

    Posted 9.5.14 Reply
  41. Jessica wrote:

    Thanks so much, Sandy! Hope you’re enjoying your new home 🙂

    Posted 9.5.14 Reply
  42. Jessica wrote:

    I never, ever behave when I’m away. It’s my downfall! haha woo, get it girl! Thank you so much 🙂 I’m slowly getting more comfortable in front of the camera. You make it look so easy 😉

    Posted 9.5.14 Reply
  43. Jessica wrote:

    You can say that again 😉 She works wonders. I have been so lazy. And it shows 🙁 TEARS.

    Posted 9.5.14 Reply
  44. Jessica wrote:

    Thanks so much girl! Enjoy the weekend ahead 🙂

    Posted 9.5.14 Reply
  45. Jessica wrote:

    Thanks, Lauren! Yay – I’m glad you’re interested. It’s so much fun 🙂

    Posted 9.5.14 Reply
  46. Jessica wrote:

    Let’s hope 😉 I blame it on the heat 😉 which means once fall really arrives, I won’t have an excuse! I can’t wait to hear how you do. You are going to rock it! October should be great as far as temp goes!

    Posted 9.5.14 Reply
  47. Jessica wrote:

    Thanks, lady! I’m crossing my fingers the nerves will kick my adrenaline into high gear and give me the push I need. Have a great weekend 🙂

    Posted 9.5.14 Reply
  48. Jessica wrote:

    Thanks miss Lauren! It’s definitely pricey, so I had to cancel my regular gym membership, but then my running routine fell to the wayside (bc it was so hot out). I’m hoping now that it’s cooling down I can find a healthy balance. Yay for staying fit together 😉

    Posted 9.6.14 Reply
  49. I think I definitely need to try this Bar Method thing! I miss dancing so much!

    http://www.gigglechamp.com

    Posted 9.8.14 Reply
  50. typicallytali wrote:

    Great goals – I really want to try at Barre class! Can’t wait to hear more about your experience with it.
    http://www.typicallytali.com

    Posted 9.8.14 Reply
  51. Jessica wrote:

    Thanks so much, Cassandra! Swimming is sooo good for you and easy on the joints – I just wish I was better at it haha. I’ll be back with an update on my half marathon tomorrow 😉

    Posted 9.9.14 Reply
  52. Jessica wrote:

    Thank you! I can’t wait to share more with you guys 🙂 Hope you’re having a great week!

    Posted 9.9.14 Reply
  53. Jessica wrote:

    YES! Let me know if you decide to and we can try and go to the same class time 🙂

    Posted 9.9.14 Reply
  54. Katharine wrote:

    I just saw this post and I LOVE it. Are you still going to BAR method classes every week?? I really wish you were closer so we could go together!
    Katharine
    http://www.paytington.com

    Posted 10.16.14 Reply
  55. Jessica wrote:

    I am! It has been so amazing. I’ve been doing it for about 3 months now 🙂 I wish we could too!!

    Posted 10.16.14 Reply