Note: I wanted to be sure to point out that the Ultimate Reset program is not considered a weight loss program but a cleansing program. The weight loss can sometimes be a side effect.
Now that I have officially finished the 3 week program the Ultimate Reset by Beachbody I thought it would be good to share my thoughts and feelings about the program as a whole. If you missed any of my previous post you can check out my day-by-day thoughts here: Ultimate Reset Review.
Many of you already know I ended the program a few days early due to my lack of eating enough because I just couldn’t eat the foods on the plan in the amounts that are required so I felt I wasn’t getting enough in my body for proper nutrition, even with the supplements.
Here is my list of Pro’s and Con’s
Ultimate Reset Pro’s
- Weight Loss
- Improved Skin (definitely cleared up)
- Improved Hair (became less oily)
- Evening of energy levels
- Appreciation for preparing and cooking food
- Better digestive health
Ultimate Reset Con’s
- The lack of variety in food groups
- Often hungry
- Time to prepare meals
- Unappetizing drinks (alkalinize and detox)
- Can not work out
Expectation
What I had expected to get out of this was very high energy (better than average) and really good sleep, in addition, I was hoping and yes expecting weight loss.
Energy Levels
What I got in terms of the above was an evening of energy levels. What I mean is I didn’t ever feel like I had tons of energy, or had more than I knew what to do with it but I felt more rested, even keel, and calm. I didn’t have spikes of energy and lows of non-energy I just felt like I had what I needed.
Sleep
I did for a few days experience nights of really good sleep but after that, it seemed my normal pattern in which I wake up frequently at night.
Weight Loss
As you will see below I did lose a nice amount of weight. I do think some of this is possibly due to not eating enough but overall I think the program does help you shed pounds.
Lessons Learned
Lessons Learned: I learned a lot about food and preparation. Things I will take with me. Did you know there was a study done regarding a microwave and broccoli? It showed that by using the microwave the broccoli lost 97% of its nutritional value. Through the program, the microwave is discouraged. Sometimes though it is necessary (like at work). However, due to this knowledge, I have started using other methods of cooking when I can. I now steam my vegetables on the stove instead of using the microwave steam bags.
Natural/Organic Foods
This program encourages organic foods. Though it is not necessary the reasoning makes sense. The first week if you remember I did all organic (and it was expensive). After that, I did half and half at my local Publix. What I did find was some foods that I LOVED when shopping at Whole Foods like this yummy salsa. I also found that I prefer to cook my rice using bulk-purchased grains versus instant or boxed rice. So I think I will be making a monthly trip to Whole Foods.
Recipes: I found that for the most part, I did not enjoy the recipes. Many of the flavors and spices used I just didn’t care for. I tried the majority of them and just got to a point where I couldn’t stomach the food. I did find a few that I enjoyed like curry cauliflower, and some beans and rice recipes that I am taking with me to continue to use.
So overall I didn’t get what I initially thought I would get out of the program, it was expensive for the fact that for me it became more of a weight loss program, and it was extremely tough. Would I do it again? I’m going to say No. I don’t think after going through what seemed like the longest 3 weeks of my life that I could do it again now knowing what to expect. I’m glad I did it. Yes because I learned some things that I think are important and changed my mindset and it has really motivated me to continue on the weight loss journey.
So here are my beginning and final results:
| Before | After | Change | |
| Weight: | 183.5 | 171.6 | 11.9 |
| Body Fat: | 44.9 | 43.5 | 1.4% (approx 7.74 lbs) |
| Right Arm: | 14 in | 13.25 in | .75 in |
| Left Arm: | 14 in | 13.25 in | .75 in |
| Chest: | 40.25 in | 39.625 in | .625 in |
| Waist: | 36.375 in | 35 in | 1.375 in |
| Hips: | 45.5 in | 44.125 in | 1.375 in |
| Right Thigh: | 29.25 in | 27.25 in | 2 in |
| Left Thigh: | 28.25 in | 27.125 in | 1.125 in |
| Right Calf: | 15.5 in | 15.125 in | .375 in |
| Left Calf: | 15.625 in | 15.125 in | .5 in |
| Total Inches: | 8.875 in |
Before and After Photos
Additional Ultimate Reset articles: