We asked Jeff Thiel to write a blog about his experience with the National Body Challenge. Here's what he posted.
First Day: The Photo Shoot
I was nervous and excited about the photo shoot but became scared when they said that if you a suit come; you didn't make the cut. I was so scared that I was crying but that changed when we met Doctors Pam and Lydie. They told what they expected from us and what foods we could eat and then they gave us samples and other things to help us get started.
Meeting our Nutritionist Alyse at our house for the first time
It was quite nerve-wracking, because I was embarrassed how the house looked terrible. But our food selection was far more the problem. Alyse helped us throw away all of the "bad" things and keep the good stuff.
We meet with Alyse once a week to go over a game plan on how to eat healthy and what some challenges were.
The main point she keeps focusing on is this is not a starvation diet and that we should be eating three meals and three snacks a day.
Training with the Great Dane
Also on the schedule: meeting with Dane, our trainer, three times a week. At first it was difficult, doing the exercise part of the program and I thought Dan was a @#$%^##$ (just kidding J). Dane has been helping us get the maximum amount out of each session with out getting hurt. I am enjoying it very much.
Dan Ho: Life Coach
I met Dan on Sat 6/16/07.
He is lifestyle coach and his specialty is getting rid of the clutter. He said if you don't use it, lose it. He also told us he was once our size and I learned that he plays rugby, just like me. It was cool meeting someone that knows exactly where I'm coming from. It gives me hope that I can do it to.
The Poker Game
On Mon, 6/25, Jim and I went to play cards and were allowed to tape it. We had a lot of fun. All the guys are very supportive of us, even if they did shove hamburgers and booze in front of my face. I know that they were only teasing, but it did look good.
Challenges
One of the biggest challenges I face is working at the Capri. I have been so accustomed to just snacking or eating anything, that it is a hard habit to break, but I am doing it.
Social events, such as the rugby banquet and poker tournament, are a challenge but becoming easier.
