When one sister’s challenge ends, the other one’s takes off (read about Richa’s Empire State Building Run here)! As previously mentioned, I’m participating in the Doonya Challenge in DC, a 3-month challenge where I will take Doonya classes 3-4 times a week and cross train on the remaining days of the week. In the last few months, I found myself dreading going to the gym and had become lazy (especially around the holiday season) so I thought this would be a fun way to get back into shape! I enjoy doing group fitness activities and what better motivation to move then fast-paced Bollywood and Bhangra songs!

I’ve started the challenge with a bang by taking 4 classes this week and making sure I went to my regular gym on the remaining days. All the Doonya instructors are excellent and bring their personal flair to the dancing, which makes each class different. Although I’m exhausted after classes, I generally find myself having more energy during the day and able to think more clearly at work. Since I was taking a few Doonya classes before the challenge even started, I’ve already noticed an improvement in my stamina. I don’t have to stop as often for water breaks in class and I’m not as much of a breathless mess after dancing to the Bhangra songs (i.e. I’m still huffing and puffing but not about to die, hopefully I’ll improve more in days to come)!

The challenge also requires us to keep track of our food and nutrition intake. This is dangerous territory for me. I love my cupcakes and glasses of prosecco. I will often reach into a bag of chips without thinking twice. I will order fries instead of salad as my side. EEKS. But now that we have to food journal, I’m embarrassed to do all that and find myself trying to go for the healthier option. I even cooked in bulk this weekend so I have dinner prepared for the rest of the week!

So here’s to a strong start to the challenge (raising my glass of water, instead of prosecco, in the air)! I will keep updating you all on any changes I see in weight, energy, stamina, and general sense of well-being! Stay tuned in the weeks to come!