I woke up this morning at 6:45am quite excited to get on with my day until I remembered that today was day #1 of my self-imposed 28-day Energy Experiment. It’s amazing how unappealing even 16 minutes of exercise can be from the warm and cozy side of a goose-down duvet.

But that’s the power of accountability and throwing your plans out to the Universe. Not only had I coerced Ewan to join me in the fun but a whole bunch of my clients, some of my audience members from this past weekend’s events, and even my twin sister Christine have committed to joining in, and wouldn’t I be the biggest hypocrite on the planet if I said “I’ll get to it tomorrow.”

Morning can be tough enough as it is but when you introduce lung-busting exercise and weight and girth measurements all before breakfast it really made me want to go back to bed…right away.

But here goes. I stepped on the scale and did three measurements for January 10th, 2012 and here they are:

WEIGHT: 159.6 pounds

Chest girth: 34.5 inches

Waist girth: 31 inches

Hip girth: 36 inches

UG! I’d say I’m carrying 10 pounds more than I should, and if when I shed those pounds the girth measurements will drop too. Some of you have told me, “You don’t have to lose weight. You’re fit and healthy.” Thanks, but I don’t feel as fit and healthy as I usually do and at 42 years of age, if I ignore it long enough it will be harder to ramp up my intensity and that 10 pounds will creep to 15 pounds and so on and so on. The sofa gets familiar for fitness experts too you know.

So after the measures Ewan and I began our 16 minutes of cardio-based exercises. We did 4 exercises for 2 minutes each and we did them twice through. Rather than explain to you how it all went, watch the video above if you haven’t already. You may be surprised by what you see.

Nuts huh? Workout #1 was a bit humbling and very eye-opening for me but I know if I stick with it (for a mere 16 minutes each morning) I will feel better and stronger SOON. Small steps to an energetic life. Oh it’s happening alright.

If you want to join me (and I hope you do) it’s not too late. Read blog #1 on the Energy Experiment where I share my plans and a copy of my workout, then email me to let me know you want to be alerted to new blog posts. When you get the alerts, read the blog, comment if you like, and share your own successes and challenges with me.

Here’s to a happier, healthier and more energetic 2012!

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Michelle Cederberg, Certified Speaking Professional | MKin, BA Psyc, CEP, Co-Active Coach

Health and Productivity Expert, Michelle Cederberg helps people with full schedules and a long list of responsibilities maximize their personal energy so they can optimize their productivity and success. As a highly accomplished speaker, author, educator, fitness professional, life coach and entrepreneur, she equips people to feel their best so they can do their best – on the job and in life.

With a Masters in Kinesiology, a BA in Psychology, and a specialization in Health and Exercise Psychology, Michelle combines mind, body, and practicality to inspire change!

As a Co-Active Life Coach Michelle works with her clients to help them find true focus and create a healthier, happier, more fulfilling life. As a Certified Speaking Professional she shares her experiences in a humorous and realistic way with delighted audiences across North America. Through her presentations, products and personality she motivates you to take small steps toward big changes, so you can actually find energy, productivity and success – even with a busy schedule!

Michelle is the author of three books. Her GOT TO IT accountability journal is a ground-breaking resource that supports people on their path to change. Her second book; If Your Life Sucks It’s Your Fault* is a fun and provocative pocket-book on personal responsibility. *Her first North America wide publication; ENERGY NOW! Small Steps to an Energetic Life is now available in bookstores everywhere, or buy here and Michelle will send you a signed copy.

Visit www.workLIFEenergy.com to learn more.