How I was Introduced to Madeline Moves
A few months ago I was introduced to a new way of working out and healthy eating. Several influencers that I routinely follow were sharing bits and pieces of the Madeline Moves Fitness App through IG stories. From what I could tell, these were at home workouts (which I love), weight-based (another plus; cardio isn’t my jam) and seemed schedule- friendly for busy, working people. I was intrigued! I did some digging through Madeline’s IG account and website and eventually stumbled on the Moves App. The Moves App is a monthly $20 subscription (you’ll find it in the app store) that Madeline has created to give you at home workouts through video and descriptions.
What I Like About It
- Yes, there are videos. But unlike other at home fitness programs, the videos are snippets. You don’t have to watch a 30-45 minute video. In fact, I watch the move a few times and then I can replicate on my own… and often I have Real Housewives or HGTV playing on the tv for background noise. I use my phone for the workouts.
- Time. 30 minute workouts are always an option! Major plus! I do not like dedicating my entire afternoon to the gym. In fact, I don’t even go to a gym. I have 5 lb and 8 lb weights, some resistance bands and a yoga mat.
- Every day is different so I never get bored! I can also modify or skip certain moves that I don’t feel comfortable doing.
The first month
For a month or two I followed the Weekly Moves program, a weekly workout regimen consisting of 5 new workouts each week, each with a different focus (upper body, back + chest, legs, etc.) I loved it because I was able to get a workout finished in 30 minutes or less, and I was learning how to properly incorporate weights. I never used weights more than 8 lbs (was just using what I already had). I was starting to feel myself get stronger, but wasn’t seeing any major changes. I used MyFitnessPal to count calories, but wasn’t aiming for certain macro goals yet.
Tighter Together (May Challenge)
Just as I was starting to get into a routine with WM (Weekly Moves), I noticed on IG a lot of talk about “Tighter Together” starting in May. Tighter Together is a 4 week, more intensive program that has daily workouts M-Sat plus a nutrition plan with a focus of counting macros. I had heard the term macros before but didn’t really know much about it, or how to do it.
I decided to give it a try, mainly because it came with a TON of resources… I mean a TON.
- 45+ recipes
- personalized macro count (this alone made it worth it to me)
- online community on facebook and IG
- 30 minute workout option
It was $30 ($50 for non WM users) and I learned so much about the way the body recovers, builds, and uses energy (e.i. food) for fuel. I’m so glad I stumbled across this when I did! Madeline does a TT every quarter; going into summer was the perfect time for me to try it.
What Are Macros?
Macro is short for macronutrient. They are the three categories that provide your body with energy: protein, carbs and fat. At the end of the day, calories are king and that is what determines if you lose or gain weight, but you are going to feel better and more satisfied if you eat a balanced diet. I could eat 1,500 calories in chips every day and perhaps not gain weight, but I wouldn’t feel good or have much energy, it’s all carbs. Rather, eating the proper amount of protein, carbs and fat makes it possible for my body to perform at its best ability. Not to mention, my stomach feels much better (this is coming from someone who struggled terribly in the past with bloating). Make sense?
Tips & Advice
- If you are going to start counting macros, make sure you have done your research. Follow macro coaches and bloggers online, save macro friendly recipes, understand the science behind macros and why it is a healthier way of eating.
- Planning makes… it practical (did you think I’d say perfect– there’s no such thing as a perfect diet!) If you want to be serious about counting macros you have to get into the habit of meal prepping, especially if you work outside of the home. You will have much better success if you plan out your meals and snacks beforehand. *Tip: I enter my meals and snacks into myfitnesspal the night before.
- Don’t give up if you don’t see results right away. I only lost 1 lb during Tighter Together… but the firmness and muscle I gained far exceeded my expectations! I feel stronger and leaner than I did before. The scale is a terrible judge of “health” and “progress”.
- I eat of lot of the same things during the week. This makes it easy for me to plan meals/snacks. I incorporate more variety on the weekends. I try not to eat out much during the week. However, if I’m in a pinch there are plenty of fast food options (Chick-Fil-A grilled nuggets or Chipotle chicken bowl are my go-to).
- Plan your protein first. Protein is the hardest for me to get in. Carbs and fats are easy peasy. I make sure I have a protein in every meal and snack. Some easy options are: tuna, grilled chicken, beef jerky, Fairlife protein shakes, cottage cheese, yogurt, eggs, fish.
- Initially, you’ll want to use a nutrition app like MyFitnessPal to count calories and macros.
I hope you find this info helpful! I know I loved reading about other bloggers journey into starting macro counting. It is time consuming in the beginning, but I assure you that it will become second nature! So glad I stumbled across this when I did!
Leave a comment or DM if you have any questions. I’d love to help you!
XX, Ericka
