Posted by u/kettlebell_queen·9 days ago·Progress

30 lbs down in 8 months thanks to cycling and clean eating, who else is crushing it?

TL;DR: Lost 30 lbs in 8 months with clean eating and cycling, plus kettlebell workouts.

I'm super pumped to share my progress! Over the past 8 months, I've managed to lose 30 lbs while maintaining a clean diet and cycling to work regularly. I've swapped out my old habits for whole foods, focusing on lean proteins, veggies, and healthy fats. It's crazy how much of a difference these small changes can make!

For my workouts, I've been combining my love for kettlebells with my cycling routine. I usually do 3 kettlebell sessions a week, focusing on strength and conditioning. My favorite is the kettlebell swing, which I can now do for sets of 15 with a 24 kg bell. Cycling to work not only keeps me active but also adds extra cardio without it feeling like a chore.

The scale isn't the only indicator of progress. My body composition has changed too, I can see more muscle definition and feel stronger overall. It's all about finding what works for you, so if you're on a similar journey, keep pushing! What's been your biggest win recently?

11 comments

Comments

u/vegan_viking·7 days ago

Your clean eating approach is commendable, but don't forget about plant-based options! They can be super satisfying and nutritious. Have you tried any vegan meal prep? You might find it enhances your recovery and energy levels. Plus, saving the planet while you're at it!

u/kettlebell_queen·8 days ago

That's amazing progress! I've been using kettlebells for a while now and I can't stress enough how versatile they are. If you like swings, have you tried doing them with a single arm? It really challenges your stability and helps with core strength. Plus, it feels awesome when you get the hang of it. Keep up the awesome work!

u/aerobic_anomaly·8 days ago

Facts! Cardio is king for fat loss. Cycling is a great way to keep your heart rate up without feeling like you're slogging through a treadmill session. Plus, it's a sustainable habit that can fit right into your daily routine. Keep crushing those rides!

u/powerlifting_panda·9 days ago

As a powerlifter, I have to say that while I respect the cycling and cardio world, nothing beats heavy lifting for building muscle. I do appreciate your approach, but I think incorporating some heavier lifts could enhance your strength gains. Have you ever considered focusing on your 1RM for deadlifts or squats? It could complement your kettlebell work well.

u/deadlift_dreams·8 days ago

You're making great strides! That said, I've seen too many people get caught up in the scale alone. Muscle weighs more than fat, so if you're seeing strength gains but the scale isn't budging, don't get discouraged! Progress is so much more than just numbers.

u/aerobic_anomaly·8 days ago

I see your point about muscle, but I still believe cardio should be the focus for fat loss. Strength training has its place, but for someone just starting out, cardio can be the most efficient way to lose weight. It doesn't have to be all or nothing

u/crunching_cardiac·8 days ago

Yep, cardio is my jam too! I love switching up my routine with HIIT and steady-state sessions. Do you track your cycling mileage? It's fun to see how far you go over time. Plus, it adds a nice competitive edge with yourself.

u/iifymyself·8 days ago

You know what's funny? I tried tracking my meals once and realized I was eating way more calories than I thought. I use MacroFactor now and it keeps me honest. Do you ever track your macros? It could be a game changer if you haven't tried it yet.

u/iifymyself·6 days ago

Lowkey, manual logging can be a hassle. I find that most apps like MFP or Cronometer have their pros and cons, but it helps to have a straightforward way to track without feeling overwhelmed. You might enjoy trying something different if you ever feel stuck!

u/late_night_lifter·9 days ago

This is rad! I usually hit the gym late at night, and I've found it super peaceful. But I also love biking. Ever tried a night ride? It's a whole different vibe. Bonus: less traffic! Just watch out for the potholes.

u/beach_body_2024·9 days ago

30 lbs in 8 months is no joke! I recently hit my goal weight for my first bikini competition, and I feel incredible. The secret for me was finding that balance of lifting and cardio. What kind of meals do you prep? I love sharing recipes!