The SDMB I'm-Getting-In-Shape Support Group

[pldennison]

Recently, I took stock of my physical condition, and realized that, at 30, I am lazy, overweight and severely out-of-shape. So, I decided to do something about it. I decided, for the following reasons, that it was time to bite the bullet and get off my ass:

1. Last year, as many of you know, I decided to try rollerblading. I broke my leg the first time out, requiring two ortho surgeries. I never got proper rehab on my leg, leaving it way out-of-shape and less flexible, and I put on weight while recuperating.

2. My company sales meeting this January is in Maui, and I don't want to go looking all flabby and unfit.

3. My company provides an allotment to all employees to use for physical fitness. It's a benefit that I wasn't taking advantage of, worth several hundred dollars a year to me.

So, last weekend, I got a membership at the local Gold's Gym (fully covered by the aforementioned allotment). I'm meeting with a personal trainer on Saturday to develop a program which will meet my goals, which are mainly basic fitness training/cardio, some toning and weight loss, and regaining more flexibility in my bum leg.

I just completed my first full week of early-morning workouts. Every morning this week, I've arisen at 5:00 a.m., gone to the gym, worked out, and showered before getting ready for work. A little treadmill on most days, some work on the Nautilus/Life Tech machines on others.

Anybody else jumping into the fray? Let's get a little support for each other going here. Getting up that early and committing to something like this is tough work, so come on, Dopers--let's give each other some encouragement!

[Coldfire]

Yup, you've heard it (and some of you will see it): Coldy could lose some kilos, especially in the stomach area. I've been putting off starting a decently scheduled workout (my office just opened a gym as well), but this moment sounds about right.

*looks around suspiciously*

Plus, the girlfriend has been complaining about it. In no uncertain terms. She also mentioned that my physical appearance is starting to, well, turn her off somewhat. Time to change that, dammit.

I'm with you Phil. But I'm not getting up at 5 am.

Name: Coldfire
Age: 27
Weight: 93 kilos
Target Weight: 80 kilos

[Peta Tzunami]

I, likewise, have been getting up at 5:00 am and working out. Mine involves a 45 minute step aerobic routine (currently Susan Powder's tape). Last year working out to several different videotapes and getting my eating habits in check (upping veggie intake, reducing carbs, my weakest weakness--or is that strongest weakness?), I dropped some pounds and several inches. PLD and I jumped on the wagon together this time, which should help things for both of us.

So, I'm in too! (I thought of starting a thread like this, but hesitated...good job, Phil!)

Peta

[vanilla]

Good going guys!
I would like to go to a club also and work out.
I don't need to lose, I need to gain.
But working out is always good for you.
Do you believe in that powder stuff in the health food stores?

[Ogre]

I'm with you. I'm a big guy, and I finally decided to start focusing on developing my physique. I've been working out 6 times a week for the past two months. I do it in 3 day stretches. First day is chest, triceps, and abs. Second is biceps and shoulders. Third day is back, legs, and abs again. This is followed by a one-day break, and then right back into it. All weight-lifting days are followed by 30 minutes of cardio.

It hurt really badly for a while, but I'm getting used to it, and it has been pretty effective. I've lost most of my fat, I can see my abs developing into a 6-pack, and I've increased over 50 pounds in bench press.

I decided to take the no-nonsense approach, and it's working out pretty well.

Good luck Coldfire and pldennison.

[Odieman]

I started my regieme about two weeks ago, but I'm willing to join the team. I'm going for half hour walks 4 days a week, resting one day and then walking 4 miles on the other two dasy. I have noticed a definite improvement to the muscle tone in my legs and I have a slightly smaller gut, too. I am hoping to combat my usual tendency to put on weight for hibernation.
Yours in Solidarity :Keith

[pluto]

Although my idea of getting in shape is probably different than yours (my current shape is "round"), I'll jump on the bandwagon too. I should be exercising every day and I'd like to lose a little weight. I've already modified my eating habits considerably and if I throw some exercise into the mix I think it will be beneficial.

So where do I sign up for co-ed aerobics?

[monster]

Yippee! This thread is just what I need. As we speak, I am eagerly awaiting delivery of my new exercise bike. I don't need to lose much (no more than 10 pounds), but I need the motivation.

You can do it! You can do it! GO!! GO!! ;)

[Ogre]

vanilla: I also use powdered, effervescent creatine. It helps you gain muscle mass very efficiently. I'm certainly not looking to be a musclebound freakazoid, but a little mass and definition are nice.

Also, make sure that you get lots of protein and water.

[Bottle of Smoke]

Count me in. Hey Coldfire, sounds like I'm in the same weight boat as you.

Name: Bottle of Smoke
Age: 33
Weight: 205 lbs (93 Kilos)
Target Weight: 180 lbs (82 Kilos)

I used to be in great shape until I moved too far away from work to commute by bike anymore. Now I seem to add extra baggage with each passing season. Unfortunately, the only time I can make for working out will be by getting up at 5:00am like Phil. Looks like I'll have to get to sleep earlier (no more Playstation at midnight).

[tatertot]

Count me in, too. I'm not sure what my goal is - getting back into single digit jeans would be nice, as would not having to buy size large shirts not for my boobs but for my arms.

My kid starts school in a week and a half, and I can use the base gym for free. [/b]Peta[/b], did you have any problems with being able to follow the step routines? I find that by the time I figure out what they are doing, they've moved on to something else. I wind up just sitting on the floor, wondering why my legs never move where my body tells them to.

Hey, Coldie, since we're meeting in a month, how bout we make this into a wager? Just to make it interesting-like. :D Here are my stats:

tatertot
Age: 26
Weight: 160(73 kilos)
Target Weight: 140 (63 kilos)

[Demo]

I'm down with this. Psycat and I just started looking for a gym wednesday. We've both been bums for a while and decided to get rid of those extra lbs. I'd like to get up in the morning and do it. I used to ride my bike in the morning, but I could never do it for long, because I like to stay up late too much. Phil, what time do you guys usually go to bed?

[Sn-man]

I’m in! I even volunteer to be the SDMB IGISSG poster boy. I started the get in shape gig last year when I stopped smoking. This year (August) I started the dieting. Less food, less booze and now that turning into less pounds. My wife and I just got a couple of mountain bikes and the exercise portion is beginning.

I’m with you all the way pldennison. My goal was to loose 50 pounds by Christmas. I’ve got 35 to go.

[KimKatt]

Ooh. I want to get in on this, but darnit do I ever lack motivation.

Name: KimKatt
Age: 30
Weight: 145 lbs, 66 Kg
Target Weight: 130 lbs, 59 Kg
Target Date: Christmas

I have a treadmill at home, but I need to actually USE it for it to work, right? ;) I need to lose a bit of weight, but mostly to get back into shape. I used to walk anywhere and everywhere.

Maybe this will help... having to report it somewhere.

[Mr. Cynical]

Allright, Coldy, Bottle o' Smoke, and Tatertot. We're all in the same boat, it just looks like I'm in an Aircraft Carrier, and y'all are in rowboats.

Name : Mr. Cynical
Age: 28
Height: 6'4" - 1.93 M
Weight: 260Lbs - 117.93 Kg
Target Weight: 210Lbs - 95.25 Kg

[Mr. Cynical]

And no wisecracks. I will kill and eat you with no shame, and hardly even a burp.

[Odieman]

I should add Age:37
Height 5'4
Weight before starting :162 74KG
Current Weight:159 72KG
Target Weight:140 64KG

[Coldfire]

Poor guy. With the Imperial measures, you seem:

a) shorter, and:
b) heavier!

That sort of thing needed to be avoided, right?

Just thought I'd check that :D

[tatertot]

Mr. Cynical, you do realize that you're 6 inches taller than me, don't you? Speaking of, how tall are you BoS and Coldie? 205 doesn't seem too bad for a man...probably all y'all need is a little toning. And Coldie, I'll bet ya Miss Fiery is just saying that because she loves you & doesn't want you to have a heart attack at 37, and she knows that sex is the best way to motivate a man to do anything.

Sigh...I need the whole shebang. I'm 5 pounds heavier than I was the day before my son was born, ferchristsake!

Does anybody have any suggestions on weight training? I really need to tone up my upper arms & thighs. I'd settle for weighing 160 and not jiggling when I walk. I'm going to look into getting a personal trainer at the gym, at least for a few sessions, so I learn how to properly lift and not hurt myself. I just hope it's not prohibitivly expensive.

[Coldfire]

Tater,

I'm 1.86 meters, which is... 6 foot 4 inches?

[pldennison]

Demo: During the week, I usually get to bed between 10:30-11:00 p.m. Sometimes I'm up a little later. The first few days I really had to tell myself to get myself up and get moving, but this morning I really wasn't tired at all once I was in the car and on the way. I didn't even nod off on the Metro on the way to work. :D

KimKatt: I'm there with you--motivation is the hardest part. I just got sick of having to buy new pants (I've gone from a 34" waist to a 38" in just a couple years) all the time, and seeing my flabby figure in the mirror.

Since everyone else is posting their vital stats, I'll do so as well:

Age: 30
Height: 5'9" (1.75m)
Current weight: 205 lbs. (92.25 kilos)
Target weight: 180 lbs. (81 kilos)
Target date: Jan. 1, 2001

[Tymp]

Right on! I’m in.

Name: Tymp
Age: 23
Height: 1.91 m
Weight: 75 kg
Target: 85 kg

I’ve been spending way too much time sitting here in the office. My body is softening and I don’t eat enough. Time to take action. Not sure what, exactly, I’ll do yet, but I will post my actions here.

[sub]Psst! Coldfire, 1.86 m = 6 ft, 1 in.[sub]

[Spider Woman]

Since I was laid off from my long time job in March, I put on :( thirty :( pounds. Some of it I needed to gain because I had lost weight previously due to other stressors, but I would like to lose some of it again.

Starting stats:

Age: 46

Height: 5' 7.25"

Weight: 140

Target Weight: 125

I have been walking to and from my office tech class as often as possible, and that is about three miles one way. So far I haven't come up with any other strategies.

[SaxFace]

I'm in, too, but waaaaay ahead of you all. Just kidding, I feel I need some support as well - it's an uphill battle.

I started going to the gym (I walk there - it's one mile away) at 6 am every morning about a month ago - 20 minutes on the Precor machine and 20 minutes of fast lap swimming.

I've lost only about 10 pounds, but 2 whole inches of flab. I don't look skinny, but I look "toned".

So, my current stats:

Height: 5'8 1/2"
Weight: 173

Goal Height: 6'0 (kidding)
Goal Weight: 150

Will we be able to post before and after pictures, too?

[Tymp]

Will we be able to post before and after pictures, too?
Wow. That would serve as serious motivation. Imagine having pictures of our out-of-shape, undisciplined butts all over the net until we can post pictures of ourselves that we like. Not a bad idea at all.

[psycat90]

Hell yes I am in. Demo already announced, but I just had to chime in. I've been going through my closet the past few days to check out my work-suits, there is not a single one in there that fits! I refuse to buy a whole new wardrobe, I will fit into those clothes again. I'm not gonna post my weight, but I will say that I am at least 40 lbs overweight, that is unbelievable. So, let's do this thing!!
Hon, we're going for a walk this evening, be prepared!

[Mr. Cynical]

Originally posted by Coldfire
Poor guy. With the Imperial measures, you seem:

a) shorter, and:
b) heavier!

That sort of thing needed to be avoided, right?

Just thought I'd check that :D

Well, it must be all the rippling muscles I barely hide beneath this protective layer of blubber :D

Now shut up, or dinner tonight shall be "Dutchman Roasted On Spit Over Hickory Charcoal". Tasteless, to be sure, but filling. ;)

And, for the record:
1.86 meter = 73.23 inch = 6'1.23"

Nyaah.

[Sauron]

I've been working on my weight, as well. Last year, I finally reached my target of 185 after dropping 40 pounds in 14 months. Got divorced, and reverted back to all my slobbish ways. So now I'm at 205. I'm 6'1", 34 years old, and I can carry this weight, but I don't like the little bicycle tire that has formed around my waist. I'm gonna get back down to 190 again, regardless. My main exercise is jogging. I hate it, but it's cheap. Two miles every morning that I can make myself get up in time.

[robinh]

tatertot wrote: Does anybody have any suggestions on weight training?

Buy or borrow the book Strong Women Stay Slim by Miriam Nelson. Her first book, Strong Women Stay Young deals with the research she did on reversing the effects of osteoperosis in elderly patients. She found that the regular use of light weights could actually increase bone mass. A side effect was that the increased muscle mass and decreased fat percentage caused these women to lose, in many cases, several dress sizes. The second book focuses more on getting back in shape.

By the way, tatertot, I have almost exactly the same stats as you, except that I am 38 and I have 4 kids. Don't be discouraged. It can be done. I was in better shape (and in a smaller dress size) in between my first 2 kids. I intend to get back there.

I'll be joining you shortly if this thread stays current. Right now, though, I'm nursing tendonitis in my foot. A word of advice: if your treadmill stalls, causing you to stop abruptly, do not continue for another mile and a half, even though nothing actually hurts at the time. Following a doctor visit yesterday, I am treating my injury "more agressively"-600mg ibuprofen 4 times daily, regular icing, and more rest.

[KimKatt]

Name: KimKatt
Age: 30
Height: 5'3"
Weight: 145 lbs, 66 Kg
Target Weight: 130 lbs, 59 Kg
Target Date: Christmas

Just to add in the height.

I'm not coherent enough in the morning to find my feet, let alone work out. I'm shooting for evenings and weekends.

[techchick68]

Well, I have started a similar thread over on the FFF, 'sposed I should revive it.

Anyhow, for me, I am changing my eating habits and have yet to get off my ass and walk. I think I have a good route that should be about 4 miles but I am going to look into some places where my dog can be off the leash.

My goal is to fit back into my size 4 jeans again.

Age: 32
Hieght: 5'3"
Wieght: over 130 lbs
Target: Under 115 lbs

I am not looking for weight so much as I am looking for inches as if I start any form of exercise (which I wont to weight training) I bulk out with a lot of muscle which in turn increases your weight.

(you can do the metric conversions)

[divemaster]

I'll join the support group. My agency has a fitness center in which I've been working out for about a year. I had made very good gains for the first 5 months, but then a lot of travel for business, and the death of my father, put me off my routine. So I'm pretty much back to where I started. My stats right now are exactly the same as phil's, except that I'm an inch taller.

YOU MUST READ THE FOLLOWING TO KEEP MOTIVATED. For most people, your metabolic set point is very stubborn and difficult to overcome. Many, many people see a trend like this (this actually happened to me during basic training, another time where I needed to lose a good amount of weight):

First month--aerobic exercise every day; running, calisthenics, muscle work, etc... Net weight loss = 5 pounds.

Next month--same exercises. Net weight loss of 35 pounds.

Of course the actual amount will depend on starting size and other factors, but the point is, your body will fight you for longer than most people are motivated to continue. They give up when the make-or-break point is just around the corner.

DON'T GIVE UP!!!!!

For me, I remember five years ago when I was running 4 miles every day (under 28 minutes). I weighed 160; 33" waist; and could eat anything and everything I wanted. Now, at 205, I realize how much work I have ahead of me to get down to 34" pants.

[Girl Next Door]

The Girl Next Door is looking more like the Blob Next Door, and that just isn't okay. My plan is self-designed, and is called the WXYZ plan:

W: Water (64 oz. or more a day)
X: eXercise (20 minutes or more of aerobic activity 4x week, and two weight lifting sessions per week)
Y: Yoga (keeps me toned and is great for alleviating depression)
Z: the Zone 'Cause I am all about processed sugar and white flour and that has simply got to stop.


So, we'll see how it goes. I can usually do two of the four things at a time, I'm having trouble doing all four at once.

-Leslie
Top weight: 169 lbs.
Currently: 166 lbs.
Goal: 145 lbs.

Reward: A Golden Retreiver Puppy when husband AND I hit our goal weights. (Yep, we both have to hit our goal before either of us gets our reward.)

[Peta Tzunami]

Originally posted by tatertot
Count me in, too. [/b]Peta[/b], did you have any problems with being able to follow the step routines? I find that by the time I figure out what they are doing, they've moved on to something else. I wind up just sitting on the floor, wondering why my legs never move where my body tells them to.

Well, I'm kind of particular about the tapes I choose to use. If you asked PLD, he'd probably say I use the most annoying. "Sure, she's got a perfectly good, unused Daisy Fuentes video, but does she use it? No. Now. And do you know why?" (Because its too frickin' hard!)

I use some Richard Simmons tapes and a Susan Powder tape. Now, some of Richard's stuff is still difficult (to follow) and I tend to avoid those. I figure that its hard enough being motivated, why add the handicap of a tape you dread doing.

Getting back to your question, Susan's tape is extremely repetitive and she really stresses working at YOUR fitness level and modifying the exercise so you can to do it until you've built up the strength and cardio endurance (and coordination) to follow it exactly. I also don't currently use the step part of it right now (I did some last year, but I'm just not to that level yet), which makes following it a little easier--no fear or falling off or misstepping.

I also really like Richard's video Tone-n-Sweat with the toning cord. It really does work well to build stronger, leaner muscles (or it did once). The other video of his that I have and use is my excuse buster kinda deal--its only 20 minutes long, and I try to tell myself "What's 20 minutes? No biggy--I can blink 20 minutes away!"

As far as getting up in the morning, one nice thing I've already noticed is it gets easier (for me) every morning and I'm less drowsy at work today than I was on Tuesday when we started. (I am usually up until 11:00 or midnight.)

Guess I'll 'fess up though I hate admitting it (these are the last figures -- haven't weighed myself in a couple months).

Age: 30
Height: 5'3"
Current Weight: 221 lbs (size 20)
Goal: +/-5 lbs a month
Long-term Goal: 135 lbs (size 10) / January 19, 2002
Short-term Goal: 195 lbs / January 19, 2001

[Peta Tzunami]

And that dreaded winter (cold weather) weight gain...

PLD and I were discussing this morning, and I find my copy of a Vegetarian Times article that discusses causes behind this phenomena and since its sort of relevant to the thread (especially given the time of year we're all taking up this challenged), I thought I'd share it.

VEGETARIAN TIMES - DECEMBER 1999
Nutrition Know-How
by Jane Shiyen Chou

Q1: I eat the same foods and exercise the same amount in the winter as I do the rest of the year, but somehow I always put on 5 pounds. What' going on? Does my metabolism naturally show down in winter?

A1: Bears hibernate in winter, but people do not. "There's no data to support the idea that one's metabolic rate automatically decreases in cold weather, says Kathy McManus, M.S., R.D., manager of clinical nutrition at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston. What's more likely is that you're eating a little more and exercising a little less without realizing it. Most people spend more time indoors when the weather turns cold. So although you may be sticking to your regular workout schedule, you may also be spending your Sunday afternoons curled up on the sofa reading a book rather than puttering in the yard. And even if you're diligent about eating healthful meals at home, it's easy to overlook a few indulgences at holiday parties, including alcohol, and they do add up.

"You should also ask yourself if you're eating those same foods in the same form," says Joseph Pizzorno, N.D., president of Bastyr University in Bothell, Washington. People tend to eat more raw foods in the summer and cooked foods in the winter. "While cooking doesn't change the calorie count, it does make food easier to digest," says Pizzorno. "And the faster food is digested, the more insulin your body produces, which in turn increases the likelihood that calories will be stored as fat instead of burned off for energy."

Finally, while the season itself doesn't affect your metabolism, even minor changes in eating and exercise habits do. Think about it. A slightly more sedentary winter lifestyle may cause you to lose a pound of muscle and a few holiday indulgences plus more cooked foods could result in an extra pound of fat. At this point your weight has not changed--you've lost a pound of muscle and gained a pound of fat--but your metabolism has. "One pound of muscle burns 50 calories per day compared with just 5 calories a day per pound of fat," explains Pizzorno. This means you're burning 45 fewer calories each day, which adds up to an extra 315 unburned calories a week, or 1,350 excess calories a month--even though your diet and exercise routine haven't changed.

So if you tend to put on winter pounds, be extra vigilant about holiday treats and activity levels and consider making fresh salads a part of your menu all year-round.

Hope that helps someone (anyone? anyone?)!

[SaxFace]

I just wanted to let those of you starting out what I did to start the cycle of fitness. I actually enjoy going to the gym every morning now!

For breakfast I eat:

2 bananas or a fruit shake (aka smoothie sans yogurt) or a low fat muffin

For lunch I eat:

A salad - without bacon bits or cheese or creamy dressing

For dinner I eat:

A baked potato with butter or a couple Garden Burgers (no bun) or tofu lasagna (really delicious and only 200 calories) or salmon and soup

Now that I have gotten my lazy ass out of bed at 5:45 every morning, my internal alarm clock is set up so I wake up at that time every day. It took about two weeks and I no longer need to force myself to go - I look forward to it.

The biggest help I've had so far is my walkman. I bought a few dance music CD's and they have very motivational songs - one even made me cry (yes, I'm thoroughly embarassed). My favorite songs are the ones that talk about "energy", "you can do it", "your dreams will come true", "keep moving", "don't stop", "deeper love", etc.

Hey, I just thought of something! If anyone of you is interested, I have a CD burner and would be more than happy to make a "Teeming Millions Workout CD". It'll feature funky James Brown selections, grooving disco bass line songs, Top 40 dance hits, and inspirational fitness lyric tunes.

Who has a webpage where we can put up monthly status photos? Motivational, indeed!

[porcupine]

Count me in. I am already on my way, though, having dropped 60 lbs so far. I am about the size I want to be now, but I still want to lose some fat and gain some muscle. To that end, I started lifting weights about two months ago. I really like weight lifting, and I really hate cardio. I am currently on a break since my herniated disk in my lower back is acting up and I am stuck at home (I am going to get a fun epidural steriod injection in about a half hour) - I can't sit for longer than about 15 minutes w/out being in intense pain.

Here's a link to my "before" and "during" pics (http://www.geocities.com/barbara_ashley/LCpics.html) that I put together for another group I participate in. My ultimate goal - look good naked :)

And now you dopers will <gasp> know my real name and it should be clear from the cleavage that I am not a guy. ;)

[Bottle of Smoke]

Originally posted by tatertot
Speaking of, how tall are you BoS and Coldie? 205 doesn't seem too bad for a man...probably all y'all need is a little toning
I'm a hair under 6'1" (1.85 meters) or to use Coldie's math, I'm a hair under 6'4" (must be my lack of wooden shoes);)

I need toning for sure, but the extra inches around my waist need more than just a tone up.

[jessicala]

I just started hitting the gym again this month, but my past pattern has been to follow it up for 2 or three weeks and then find other distractions. Motivation to keep to it would be very much welcome. I need to improve my muscle tone more than I need to lose pounds, but if I could drop 15-20 pounds as well, I would be very happy.

Current plan: 60-minute step class Monday and Wednesday evenings (includes some arms and abs work), Fitness and circuit machines Friday evenings, and trying to eat in a more healthy manner.
Target dates: 1. Company Holiday Party; 2. High School reunion next summer.

One general question, though: I see that most of you are planning to exercise every day. Am I setting myself up for failure by only working out three days a week?

[Mr. Cynical]

And for lunch today, I had:

A Beef Tenderloin sandwich, with mushrooms, lettuce, and tomatoes.
An Orange.
A bunch of grapes.
A Caesar salad.
A slice of cake.
A glass of Iced Tea.
An Andes Mint.

[Mr. Cynical]

And, I have it on good authority that Coldfire ate a whole large double thick deep dish New York Style pizza, with sour cream and Salmon Chunks. For his beverage, a nice glass of melted pig fat.

[bump]

I'll say this:

Losing weight & getting in shape is not impossible. Tough, but not impossible. Based on my experience, there are a few important points:

1. WATCH what you eat. Watch it like a hawk. Eat if you're actually hungry, not when you are bored.

2. Get regular exercise. Weightlifting, cardio, etc... doesn't so much matter so long as you do it regularly & as intensely as you feel you can.

3. Take the long-term approach. This is probably the biggest one. Don't aim for something ridiculous like "I want to lose 30 lbs in 2 months". That's about six lbs a week, which is unrealistic. Instead, set a goal like "I want to lose 30 lbs in five months", which is a pound and a half per week, and is absolutely realistic.

4. Find someone to work out with, talk to about it, etc... who is supportive, but won't let you slack off either.

5. Take some before/during/after pictures. If you keep it up, you'll be amazed. Also, keep around maybe one old pair of pants so you can see just how they don't fit anymore!

And now for my vital stats:

Age: one week shy of 28
Height: 6'1"
Original Weight: 273 (1/16/2000) (size 42 waist)
Target Weight: 200
Current Weight: 222(yay!) (size 36 waist)

I just eat about 1500-2000 calories per day, & lift weights 3 times a week. Nothing amazing, but I couldn't be happier with the results.

[pldennison]

If you asked PLD, he'd probably say I use the most annoying. "Sure, she's got a perfectly good, unused Daisy Fuentes video, but does she use it? No. Now. And do you know why?"

Hey, if you were using the Daisy Fuentes tape, I'd do her. Er, it. :P

[Coldfire]

It's true. All beginnings are hard. Kids, what we are trying to avoid are conversations like this (God bless ICQ):

Coldfire 8-9-00 19:38 Hey fatso ;)

Mr. 8-9-00 19:38 What's up, Chubby?

Coldfire 8-9-00 19:39 Nothing much... just vegging behind the PC, waiting for the.... uhm... pizza LOL

Mr. 8-9-00 19:39 Ha! I'm doing all I can to avoid having lunch. I hate having to give up the burger that's NAMED for me. lol

Coldfire 8-9-00 19:40 SWell, ya know I DID work late. And it IS friday night. And I DO have to go to a birthday later on, so I have little time. Yes, I DESERVE that pizza ;)

Mr. 8-9-00 19:41 Ha! Make sure to get extra anchovies, eh?

Coldfire 8-9-00 19:41 Better! This is a sour cream & salmon chunks Deep Pan New York fuckin' Giant BigAss YumYum gimme gimme pizza :)

Mr. 8-9-00 19:42 Salmon Chunks? Wow! I would have never thought of that! Or sour cream, for that matter!

Coldfire 8-9-00 19:42 Believe me, it is DELICIOUS.

Mr. 8-9-00 19:43 I'm a huge fan of the White Pizza, myself. Rub the dough with olive oil, sprinkle crushed garlic and sliced onions all over it, and then hit it with cheese. No tomato sauce at all. It is fantastic. And, would you believe I've never tasted salmon at all!

Coldfire 8-9-00 19:45 No salmon? Get thee to a store and buy some smoked Canadian! You'll love it, if you like fish.

Mr. 8-9-00 19:46 Oh man, last week in Texas, the folks I was visiting took me to a cajun place. Had me some
blackened catfish, with a pontchartain sauce over it. I almost licked the plate. I gotta tell you, salmon steaks do look REALLY good.

Coldfire 8-9-00 19:47 And they are... catfish kicks ass, too, like you said. And don't get me started on swordfish. That's pure heaven on your plate.

Mr. 8-9-00 19:48 Is it flaky? It looks as if you can almost peel off individual layers of meat! Now, I've got this other dish in my head. Seared Ahi tuna, crusted with crushed pepper, served with a raspberry sauce on the side. Oh My God.

Coldfire 8-9-00 19:49 Salmon, well prepared, is really tender and peals off layers easily. Swordfish is more heavy, almost like a beef steak. But MAN is it good.

Mr. 8-9-00 19:50 Hmmmmmmmm.....how are they on the grill?

Coldfire 8-9-00 19:50 ESPECIALLY good on the grill. An Aussie mate of mine BBQ's them all the time. Heavenly.

Mr. 8-9-00 19:51 Cause I was thinking about firing up the grill this weekend, and I happen to know an excellent butcher/seafood shop.

Coldfire 8-9-00 19:51 Try it!! You won't be disappointed.

Mr. 8-9-00 19:52 I will do that. Maybe both. A filet of each.

Coldfire 8-9-00 19:52 Knock yourself out ;)

Mr. 8-9-00 19:53 Heh! And, what do you have on tap for the weekend?

Coldfire 8-9-00 19:55 Tonight, a birthday party. But I'm driving there, so I'm gonna have to restrain myself ;) Tomorrow, I'm going to my old college town to visit my best friend, who yesterday became the father of twins. I'm bringing two handmade Cuban cigars ;) Hmmm... pizza has arrived ;)

Mr. 8-9-00 19:56 Cubano! Damnit! I wish I could get them here.

Coldfire 8-9-00 19:57 Bought them in Mex, they were about USD 15 each ;)

Mr. 8-9-00 19:57 Oh man!

Coldfire 8-9-00 19:58 but they're probably worth it. one hand now, eating ;)

Mr. 8-9-00 19:59 lol! I just had lunch dropped off for me as well. Beef Tenderloin sandwich, with a caesar salad, Oranges, and some kind of cake.

Coldfire 8-9-00 20:00 Hot damn. We're sure working out, huh LOL

Mr. 8-9-00 20:00 lol! Lots of curls.

Mr. 8-9-00 20:03 For the record, I ate the cake first.

Coldfire 8-9-00 20:04 thank you. ftr, i am currently eating slice 3 of 6 ;)

Mr. 8-9-00 20:05 lol! PIG!

Coldfire 8-9-00 20:05 hey, it's merely a medium ;)

Mr. 8-9-00 20:06 I've seen mediums that would constipate an elephant! Especially if they're Double thick deep dish new york style creamy goodness smothered with cold cream and pickles.

Coldfire 8-9-00 20:07 It would have to be a big elephant, but yeah: it's one of those motherfuckers ;)

Mr. 8-9-00 20:07 LOL

Coldfire 8-9-00 20:08 commencing 4 of 6... will he make it???

Mr. 8-9-00 20:08 Course you will, you're no quitter.

Coldfire 8-9-00 20:09 Hell no. And I worked for it, dammit ;)

Mr. 8-9-00 20:09 lol! You realize, of course, that this must be posted in that thread.

Coldfire 8-9-00 20:10 That's what I just thought!! Great minds. Who will do it?

Mr. 8-9-00 20:11 Hold on, rooster, I'm on it. :)

Coldfire 8-9-00 20:11 Superb... we're gonna get toasted LOL

Mr. 8-9-00 20:11 lol! I hope so!!!

Coldfire 8-9-00 20:12 5 out of *belch*... 6.... UGH ;)

Mr. 8-9-00 20:17 It's up!

Coldfire 8-9-00 20:17 I'm in there now, lemme refresh ;)

Mr. 8-9-00 20:18 lol

Coldfire 8-9-00 20:19 Shall I just post the ICQ Convo?

Mr. 8-9-00 20:19 Yeah!!! That would be a hoot!!!

Coldfire 8-9-00 20:19 Hang on ;)


All together now: BAD COLDFIRE! BAD CYNICAL!!

Let this be a lesson to you kids :D

[iampunha]

I'm not trying to lose weight, as such would be nearly impossible for me, I'm (like Tymp) trying to gain muscle. Stats (far as I know):

age: 18
height: 5'10" (1.778 m)
weight: 155 lbs (70.455 k)
target weight: 170 lbs (77.3 k)

[Bottle of Smoke]

Coldie and Mr. C -- Nice start on the workout regimen, guys. What's your cool-down gonna be? A case of Grolsch?

[Ceejaytee]

Cool. I want to play.

I had been working out fairly regularly (4-5 times a week) until I got the cold from hell, which I have been battling for 2 weeks.

Stats:
Name (sort of): Ceejaytee
Height: 5'2"
Weight: 185 lbs
[I am metrically impaired; calculate at your own risk]
My goal: 150 lbs by January, 2001, when I will try to conceive for the first time, and gain it all back

My plan is to exercise 5 days a week, weights 2x week, and aerobics the rest of the time. I walk to work (25 min. each way) but that apparently isn't enough. I have weird endocrine problems (thyroid and adrenal), so I am about to try a low carb diet, which is supposed to be good for that. First I have to read the book and explain it chapter by chapter to my (thin and wiry) husband, who worries I am going to be killed by a fad diet (recommended by my dr. no less).

At the end of September, the hubby and I are going hiking for 2 weeks in Utah (Zion, Bryce Canyon and Arches) and hopefully I won't keel over. We have backpacked before, but we have been extremely sedentary this year.

This should be fun.

[RTFirefly]

For me, it isn't so much the weight (altho I'd like to lose 8-10 lbs., but I can accomplish most of that by eating rabbit food for lunch); it's the out-of-shape bit. Got hit by a hell of a case of the flu in early April, and wasn't really back to normal until mid-May. A busy year, both at work and at home, means I haven't gotten any exercise to speak of all year.

Plus, during the past year, I got hooked on one of them damned online message boards...;)...it's hard to get exercise while typing away on the keyboard. I need to find a way of posting to the SD while riding a bicycle!

[Mr. Cynical]

Does Grolsch come in Light? I'd hate to take on any extra calories.

[Jodi]

Coincidentally, I just started one of my semi-annual quests to get in shape on September 1st. I'm not eating refined sugar or dairy (mmm . . . cheese . . .) and trying to step up the length and frequency of my walk/runs.

If anyone needs an e-mail buddy for this adventure, drop me a line. Oh, and way to go Porcupine! You should be very, very proud of yourself. :)

[tatertot]

Thanks for the advice robinh and Peta, I'll look for those books and videos. You know what somebody needs to invent? Aerobics for klutzes. Or at the very least, Clumsy Folks Night at the gym. I can't even jog because my feet get all tangled up!

And I am totally going to kick Coldy and Mr C's asses at this get fit thing. As I'm typing this, I'm bouncing my feet up and down, totally burning the calories from tonight's Pizza Hut. (well what was I going to do? My niece came over and I'd already promised her some Cheezy Crust)

[techchick68]

Just got back from walking the dog.

It was interesting really, a concrete path that goes through semi prairie land with houses all around. The path goes up and down hills and going down was okay but my legs and buttocks were burning when going up.

I saw some pretty cool back yards and one house that looked lived in but had three windows broken out of it. It looked as though it had been a while since they were broken out so I didn't call the authorities or anything. 'Sides I was behind the house so I wouldn't be able to tell the police where the house is located.

I ended up with only 30 minutes as but the dog and I are out of shape, I didn't want to over do it for either of us. (The vet told me my dog needs to loose about 7 pounds so I have an additional incentive to get out and get moving. His health is dependent upon me to get him moving.)

So while Coldfire and Cynical were over-indulging on food I was out walking with the canine.

[vanilla]

Age: 41
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 115 lbs.
Target weight: 140 by Xmas.

[SmoothOperator]

Now that my back is doing better, I can start to exercise again. So I'll start doing water aerobics again and walking. Once I've saved for it, I'll join a gym. I need to lose and tone. As far as my statistics go, if you are that interested, email me and I'll tell you, otherwise you'll just have to take my word on it.

Anyone interested in buying and picking up a NordicTrak Pro machine or one of those elliptical/orbitrak machines? They are in good condition. I can't use them anymore because of my back, but they are in good condition.

[5que]

Count me in too.

Name: 5Que (5K -- I use 5K races to keep me motivated to run. Goal: not finish last. Successful so far, but 3rd from last once.)
Age: 44 and 3/4
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 210
Goal: 180-ish

I am trying to primarily run, using a heart rate monitor and effort based training. I think it's the best bang for the buck to lose my pot belly.

I attended an "adult onset running" school two weeks ago, and got a running program from a well known coach (college, Olympics). I'm trying to make it a priority in my life, if my right calf muscle will cooperate. Long history of muscle pulls and cramps, which knock me out of running for 2-3 months at a time.

Currently I'm trying for 4 times per week. I am up to about 12 miles/week now, with the goal of getting to 35/week in about 4 months. Also trying some basic weightlifting in the basement a couple of times a week.

I am also trying to stick to the Zone diet, like Girl Next Door. Looking at my diet, I didn't eat that much but it was way, way too high on the carbs. I'm met a couple of people who have had real good success on the Zone.

[Poysyn]

My turn, my turn. I am not overweight, but seriously out of shape. I just can not seem to get motivated. i need my own personal drill sergeant. God knows THAT worked!

Here's mine -

Height - 5'9" ( 173cm I think)
Weight - 135 -140 (61-63 kgs)


My goal to lose a few inches. I want my old measurements back, they used to be great!

[Silo]

Name: Silo
Age: 21
Weight: 194 3/4 lbs.
Height: 5'11"
Target weight: none

weight in picture (180): www.geocities.com/sdpeoplepages/silo.html

Well I've gained about 15 lbs. since that picture, but, it's muscle.

Don't focus on weight, focus on your appearance!

If your going the weightlifting route, remember to use proper technique, ingest abnormal abnormal amounts of protein, and use the same muscle groups at different angles.

Well...maybe someday I'll look like this guy:

www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Rink/9267/2/steiner6.jpg

heheh :D

[Mr. Cynical]

Well, I've got plans to commit a few 12 oz Curls tonight for my workout!

[Silver Fire]

Name: (Duh) Silver Fire
Age: 19
Height: 5'4"
Weight: 135 pounds
Target Weight: 115 pounds by my next birthday (February 2001)
AIM name: slvrfire19
ICQ #: 89099968

If someone could just occasionally message me and yell at me to "Put down that cookie!!" I'd greatly appreciate it. :)

[Monster104]

Well, I'm not fat or out of shape any more, but that's after I put in the time to exercise and lost 50 lbs and gained a lot of muscle...soooo, I'll just stick around an root you all on.

Here are some of my tips:
- Try different forms of exercise and/or dieting. Some ways work for some people and not for others. Try going to a gym, or to save money, do pushups, situps/crunches, and run a mile or so when you have time (It's what I started with and it worked really well...I lost 20 lbs in a month of exercise).
- Try joining an athletic group. Kickboxing, Tae Bo, whatever, they work you out (I prefer kickboxing...nothing better than getting in shape by kicking someone's ass).
- Stay away from Keebler Fudge Shop cookies!

[Doobieous]

I guess i'll try to jump on this bandwagon. I have been thinking about this recently, mostly because I took a look at myself and while i've started to care about how I look (clothes, hair and all), my body needs to get into shape. I've gotten tired of this flab I carry around, so, I think i shall attempt to lose it ;). I have lost some weight this year. At the beginning, i was at 260, and i changed my habits to take in less carbs. Well, i slipped from that, and am now stuck at 245 lbs.

Also, it's pissed me off that in middle school, while I wasn't really thin at all (in fact, I think i was bigger then), I could make it up this fairly steep hill at the end of my street. Now, it's difficult for me to bike all the way up it (that illustrated how out of shape I am).

So, i bought a bike pump for my bike, inflated the tires, and put the wide seat back on it (that's what stopped me the last time, the other bike has such a narrow seat my ass hurts when I ride for any good amount of time on it). So, it's ready for me to take out and around town. I have a course in mind that i've ridden before that's got many hills (the steep one at the end of my street included, as well as several smaller ones. What joy it is to live on sand dunes :D). It's probably a mile or two total, so i can ride around that for 30 minutes at least every day. I dont know when I can do this. I'm not a morning person, and I value my sleep during school days, so i'd probably go out in the afternoons. I'll also bring my walkman along to help keep it from getting too boring.

The last time I took the bike out, I must say it was quite invigorating. Even though my legs burned, it felt good to get out there and ride around. I hate jogging or walking, but I can do the bike. I'm not so much into muscle gain as getting my legs in shape, as well as losing weight, so my focus is cardio to help my heart and lose the weight.


Stats:

Name: Doobieous
Age: 21
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 245 lbs
Target Weight: 200

I figure i'll go for 200 because its a nice even number, and losing 45 lbs seems doable to me. I dont want to set the goal too high, but who knows what may happen further down the road, i may decide to go lower.

Interesting family fact hi-jack: My dad seems to not be able to keep his cholesterol up. One of his last physicals, they tested him twice because his cholesterol was so low, they thought they made a mistake. So, they told him to eat more fat. I sure hope I have the gene for that.

[Michi]

Name: Michi
Height: five feet
Weight: 123
Goal 110-115 by Jan 1, 2001

I have been doing the weight watchers thing, but I have not been monitoring myself as closely as I should, nor have I been exercising enough.

For those of you interested in aerobics tapes, try Jane Fonda's "Step and Stretch" and "Step and Abs". Also try Kathy Smith's "Step Workout" and Reebok's "The Video". All these tapes contain routines that are SUPER easy to follow. Trust me, I can't walk and chew gum at the same time but I picked up the steps with no problems.

[Cogitoergosum]

I, too, have recently tried to get in shape. I'm attempting to gain at least 25 pounds, but I figure that will take me a while. This site that I've tried seems really cool though. www.gymamerica.com

[Peta Tzunami]

I've been reading along with everyone's commitments and am really thrilled to see we're in such good (and supportive) company in our desire to get healthier, leaner and stronger. And I wanted to add something here...mostly because I've never been good at the "group support thing" as far as receiving support. I love to give encourage and help others but battling my weight most of my life (and sometimes winning for a year or two) has made me incredibly self-conscious around others in regards to my weight. And I'm sure I'm not the only one reluctant to share a lot about myself.

Now, many of us have chosen to post our weight and our goal weight, etc., but I hope and want to encourage anyone reading this and thinking of joining in the whole "support thing" not to feel intimidated or obligated to post their stats (I'm going on faith here that no one who's already joined this little thread is going to disagree). The important thing is to get fit. So, IMHO, you don't have to post stats or even goals, but if you want to post goals or target dates without exact stats (i.e. without stating current weight to say you want to lose/gain 15 lbs, for example), I'd think that's great too.

Just my two-cents...

[techchick68]

Okay, damnit.

I cut my walk short today for several reasons, only about a 15 minute walk. No I am not wussin out here.

My shoes are hand-me-downs from my step-mom and they were rubbing my heel pretty bad and I am starting to get a blister, okay so I am going to go shopping today for new shoes. Proper shoe fit is important when walking. If I continued and got a major blister I would have not been able to walk for a few days.

It was hotter outside than I anticipated, it wasn't the temp so much as the sun beating down.

Last and the most important thing for me to look at is, my frickin smoking. I did okay yesterday but today with the heat my lungs were screaming for air. Time to get some nicorettes and if not quit completely (hey you can't change your lifestyle completely in one day) at least give my lungs a break from the smoke while aiding my need for nicotene.

Once I get my new shoes today, I will go for another walk today. I have nothing better to do anyway.

[ExTank]

It wasn't so much my weight, but where I was carrying it.

So I joined Bally's and lift weights, run a lot (I like the treadmill, so I can catch CNN Headline News while I'm grinding out the miles) and I swim laps.

I also changed my eating habits: much less meat, leaner portions of meat, more salad and veggies, less caffiene (almost none, now), very seldom sweets.

Lots of yoghurt and Slim Fast-type drinks (breakfast, lunch and a mid-afternoon snack).

And I moved that flacid spare tire from my waist to a fairly toned chest/arms/shoulders over a year.

But my weight didn't change all that much.

ExTank

[ExTank]

Oh, and I broke my arm last Thursday, so I'm open to suggestions on how to work-out without destroying this hunk o' plaster ensconsing my arm from fingers to mid-forearm.

Thanks.

ExTank

[ExTank]

Name: Rob
Location: Everywhere (no, really, I travel a lot in my work)
Age: 33
Height: 5'6"
Weight: 155lbs
Waist: 31"
Chest: 40"
Biceps: 14"

SilverFire (and to all others that this applies):

"Put Down That Cookie!"

ExTank
"Pecan Sandies and Striped Shortbread are the tools of the Devil!"

[Sublight]

ok, I'll join in. None of my old pants fit. I worked out regularly for about 6 months 4 years ago and I remember actually being able to see my abdominal muscles. I'd like to get back to that. My fiancee has said she thinks it would be sexy, so there's some motivation.

Sublight.
Age: 28
Height: 186cm, 6'1"
Weight: 86kg, 189lbs.
Fat: 21% (according to one of those hand-held electric fat meters)
Target weight: whatever. I'm more concerned with lowering my fat level. If I put on weight in muscle, great.
Target fat: 17%

Good luck to everyone here,

--sublight.

[Spider Woman]

about not feeling obligated to post your weight and other stats. And it's nice that people here at SDMB are so supportive of each other.

I'm afraid one of my biggest problems is going to be staying away from the computer and going outdoors more. I'm so fascinated by this board that I spend way too much time here. I guess I am going to need to figure some form of postitive reinforcement so that when I exercise, I am sufficiently rewarded to do it frequently.

[Miss Gretchen]

Wow. My age & stats are exactly the same as tatertot's. Freaky.

How's this for motivation - the mother of all SDMB get-togethers. It could be in a warm, vacation-y type of place. Then we'd all have no choice but to look buff and sexy to show off to other dopers.

To accomplish this, I think I'd also need a new thread: "Stop spending all of your money on stupid crap and save some of it for a fabulous vacation."

I'm currently trying to run, but the motivation (or lack thereof) is a little tough. I'm also looking for a place to take yoga, but so far none of the places I've tried are compatible with my schedule. Are there any good yoga tapes that anyone can recommend?

[tatertot]

Gretchen, we should be get-fit buddies. :) Yoga sounds like fun, too - doesn't it build those long, lean muscles? I'd love to be able to swim, but the chemicals they put in pool water give me hives. It's too bad, because I love swimming and would happily do it all day.

I've got a question for the Mommy Dopers who have sucessfully got back into shape: Will my hips ever go back to 33 inches or are they stretched beyond repair? Do the bones actually widen, or is that an old wives tale? I've been trying to find a definative answer on the internet but no luck.

[brachyrhynchos]

:eek:
Count me in. Actually, I have already lost a considerable amount of weight but I'd like to lose about 10-15 lbs more (or at least keep off what I've lost to date). It's been worth the effort. My blood pressure has dropped from 145/95 to 110/70 and I feel pretty good.

There have been some great suggestions by other posters: keeping careful track of what you eat (reality check), keeping a set of old clothes so you can see what you've lost (reward). For my diet, I've done a "zigzag" of low calorie for several days, maintenance calorie for a couple of days, then a fast day. This has worked for me (resulting in about 125 lbs lost over about 2.5 to 3 years). I'm very active for much of the year, walking mist nets all day long. I lift weights (okay, they're only 2 lb weights, but I move 'em around) and I'll need to find something to do during the winter when I'm not catching birds.

Say, Girl Next Door: why not get the puppy now and exercise with it? (I'm waiting myself for my field season to be over to get a Golden - love these dogs. I'll take her out in the field when she gets older.)

Motivational 'before (http://www-rci.rutgers.edu/~insects/pdocs.htm)' picture: While it's a little old (last fall) it's fairly accurate and I ain't putting one of my pre-diet pics up. I'd like to get my belly, hips, and thighs in better shape (or am I cursed with cellulite to my dying day?). I'm the blonde having a bad hair day in the middle.

::stands up and takes deep breath::
name: brachyrhynchos
Age: 44
Height: 5'9"
Weight: 160-165 lbs currently size 10 or 12 pants (I don't have a scale, best estimate)
Target Weight: About 150 lbs or size 8 to 10 pants.

[nashiitashii]

Well, I have to try to lose a teeny bit of weight, but with vball season in full swing now, I'll probably gain some in muscle. I just have to try to keep up with the exercise plan after season ends, which means running again.

[tatertot]

Brachy, you are so pretty! If you want to get fit for health, that's one thing, but I'm telling you your figure is very nice, not need to change anything. And coming from me, the queen of catty women, that should mean a lot.

[porcupine]

Something that I have found very motivating in my weight-loss endeavor is to have a pair of "reference jeans." Reference jeans are one size smaller than what you currently wear. It is a tremendous ego boost when you first zip 'em up, and even better when you can go out in public and wear them. My first set of reference jeans was a size twelve - I never bought a bigger pair because I started wearing the horrid "stretchy pants" when I grew out of my 12s. Now I don't have reference jeans because I can wear size 8s in public. :D However, I am still trying to gain muscle and lose fat. I don't really care what my weight is, as long as I look good. However, I am bummed that I will never be able to wear a size 8 dress. Some things don't shrink no matter how much weight you lose. :(

Reference jeans are particularly motivating when the scale isn't moving. I've lost inches but no actual weight at times. Another idea is to get a tape measure and regularly track your changes.

I now consider stretchy pants to be Spawn of Satan and they are banned from my closet except for work-out/lounging clothes.

Even if you're not trying to lose weight, just get into shape, you'll notice a tremendous amount of difference in the way your clothes fit. And since muscle is more dense than fat, you can end up gaining weight but fitting into smaller clothes.

[TracyMarie]

I just stared working out too, but haven't seen any results yet.

Name: Tracy
Height: 5'6"
Weight: 172lbs. (ouch)
Goal: 150lbs.

I am biking for about a half hour every other day. I slacked off this summer because of the 107 degree temps. here in Louisiana, but I'm trying to get started again. The University where I teach has a gym and I need to check it out. I started arm work today (I have some hand weights at home). I haven't really changed my diet much. I eat entirely too much cheeseburgers and mexican food!

Oh, and iampunha . . . you are so goodlooking, hon! :-)

Peace,
Tracy

[mega the roo]

I'm in.

I need to start running again, or something.

My asthma is not appreciating all the butt smushing, I've been doing.

[brachyrhynchos]

Wow, tatertot, thank you! Actually I feel fairly comfortable with my general body shape, at least when I'm in regular clothes. It's more how I feel, literally. Sort of like squeezing soggy Charmins. I think this is an age thing - I was a lot firmer 20 years ago.

The health aspects of losing weight have been the best. Like I mentioned, my blood pressure is now normal - a good thing for me since high blood pressure gallops through both sides of my family. And I was certain I was headed toward a knee replacement. I had torn my left anterior cruciate ligament several years ago and eventually both my knees ached all the time. Now they are fine. And now I know what I'll do during the winter - tune up my x-country skis and pray for snow! Haven't been able to do that since the tear.

[Girl Next Door]

Originally posted by brachyrhynchos
Say, Girl Next Door: why not get the puppy now and exercise with it? (I'm waiting myself for my field season to be over to get a Golden - love these dogs. I'll take her out in the field when she gets older.)


Not a bad idea!

[Doobieous]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by brachyrhynchos
[B]The health aspects of losing weight have been the best. Like I mentioned, my blood pressure is now normal - a good thing for me since high blood pressure gallops through both sides of my[/QUOTE}


Another good reason for me to start exercizing. My father has high blood pressure (regulated through meds) and i would rather not have to come to that sometime in the future.

[ChrisCTP]

Gosh...looks like I'm the most disgusting female Doper. Guess that means I should join in the fun, too.

Name: Chris
Ht: 5'3 (someone else do the conversions, I have no idea how.)
Wt: 180#
Goal: 110-120# before my next birthday (July 1)

I already don't eat much, and I walk almost everywhere. Guess I'll start by cutting out alot of my Coke intake and getting up early enough to do something aerobic for 20 minutes or so. I have tapes...just gotta blow the dust off of 'em. :::blush:::

[Spider Woman]

Nonononono, none of us is disgusting. Start out with an idea like that and you doom yourself.

(Do you absolutely hate sugar free pop (soda)?)

I walk much less than I used to, so I want to start walking more.

Good luck to us all!

[Silver Fire]

Originally posted by ExTank
SilverFire (and to all others that this applies):

"Put Down That Cookie!"


You know what I did? I made every single sweet thing I had in my house (1 package Pilbury cookies and 1 Jello No-Bake cheesecake) and I brought them and 4 boxes of Jello pudding to my mom and dad's house. While there I had a piece of Dairy Queen ice cream cake. (I had to because it was my nephew's birthday party.)

I took a jog this morning but it was short lived because of asthma.

::makes note to remember inhaler next time::

[brachyrhynchos]

Spider Woman is right, don't even think that way! You are not disgusting. You are a beauty (I've seen your pictures) so do not deny it. I've spent too much time with my own self-hatred to know it is a poisonous place to be. Do not do that to yourself.

As far as your inability to eat (I saw your other thread on this), I can understand. When I am on my low-calorie days, it is easy to lose my appetite. If I start skipping meals, I know it's time to change gears (into maintenance mode). I have to force myself to eat, but my appetite eventually kicks in. I'll eat small portions because I can't handle much at that point, but I'll eat more frequently. I've also noticed that when I'm doing heavy-duty fieldwork, my appetite really increases in response to all the calories I'm burning.

[Miss Gretchen]

Tatertot: You're on, get-fit buddy! If pool chemicals bother you, are there any pools in your area that are saltwater? I've noticed that this is becoming more popular where I live. I haven't tried one yet, but I'd like to, since I hate the nasty chlorine smell that seems to stay in your hair even after you've washed it. I have really sensitive skin, and pool chemicals don't exactly make my skin feel fantatisic, either.

[SmoothOperator]

Chris, you aren't disgusting and perhaps you should have noted that I did not post my statistics for a very good reason. Just get out and walk about 20 minutes.

[Coldfire]

For the record, I am eating grapes now. I think I've done about a kilo, so far... but that stuff is all water, right?

Spend the Saturday evening at a friends, and drank a few mineral waters.

OK. Three beers, dammit. But he just became a father and we needed to celebrate!

Oh, and another thing? Can I be excused from dieting and working out during DubDope2000? I mean, I really have to get a break then. Cuz the Irish will beat me up if I don't drink more than 16 pints of Guinness per night.

[Silver Fire]

I hereby grant Coldfire a break during DubDope. The man has a point. Any objectors?

[TracyMarie]

Grapes are fine. You should be able to eat as much of them as you want, especially the red ones. They're kind of like . . . Nature's laxatives! :)

Peace,
Tracy

[porcupine]

ChrisCTP,

Don't talk that way! Beat the crap out of that negative little voice that says that kind of stuff. I know it's tough, because I've been there. My top weight was 215, and at 5'5", this was not a particularly good look for me. Here's the pics to prove it. (http://www.geocities.com/barbara_ashley/LCpics.html)

Depending on how much pop you drink, just cutting out the sugar may help you a lot. If you can't stand Aspartame, try finding some of the newer formulas sweetened with Splenda aka Sucralose. Diet Rite uses Splenda in their new formula, and it doesn't have the aftertaste that a lot of people notice with Aspartame.

Hope this helps.

[brachyrhynchos]

A break from both diet and exercise, Coldfire? I think you should at least run around the bar once for every beer ordered. That's the ticket. Order, run quickly, and be back at your seat as the barkeep presents you with your now-deserved refreshment.

Have some more red grapes. :D

[Mr. Cynical]

Originally posted by TracyMarie
Grapes are fine. You should be able to eat as much of them as you want, especially the red ones. They're kind of like . . . Nature's laxatives! :)

And TRUST me, there's nobody on this board more full of shit than Coldfire:D

[Coldfire]

Originally posted by Mr. Cynical
And TRUST me, there's nobody on this board more full of shit than Coldfire :D

Oh, hi, Cynical. How was that EXTRA JUICY SWORD FISH STEAK, grilled and dripping with tartar sauce, no doubt??

BTW, I had Chinese this afternoon, and Sue Duhnym just told me I then must have eaten cat. Ugh. Talk about losing weight quickly!

[Jodi]

Okay, I've been not eating dairy or refined sugar for two weeks, and I just weighed myself and I've gained a pound.

WTF???

Must be all the lean muscle mass I'm adding from jog/walking, right?

Right??? Help me out here.

[Booker57]

I knew if I hung around long enough some thing like this would happen. I'm in. stats
age 43
height 5'7"
weight 263 yes 263lbs
goal fitting into 38" jeans(loose not hold your breath tight}
let's keep this going we can all succeed in being loser's

[Mr. Cynical]

Originally posted by Coldfire
Originally posted by Mr. Cynical
And TRUST me, there's nobody on this board more full of shit than Coldfire :D

Oh, hi, Cynical. How was that EXTRA JUICY SWORD FISH STEAK, grilled and dripping with tartar sauce, no doubt??

See what I mean, kids? :D

[iampunha]

Originally posted by TracyMarie
Name: Tracy
Height: 5'6"
Weight: 172lbs. (ouch)
Goal: 150lbs.

Oh, and iampunha . . . you are so goodlooking, hon! :-)


Maybe this is my (sometimes referred to as weird) personal tastes speaking, but I'm not seeing the bad part of this.

But glad you think I look good. At some point I'll agree with you, even:)

[Coldfire]

Don't fall for that reverse-reverse-reverse-psychology crap, kids. The man just consumed more fat fish than a Canadian Grizzly in two years.

[iampunha]

Forgot to say . . . IMNSHO, the biggest thing you had going against you in the "before" pics was the hair. Poofy and up doesn't suit you nearly as well as relaxed and down:)

[Sassy]

I have been watching what I eat and making little changes now for a couple of months - but I have to exercize or it won't help enough! I don't know what I weigh, but I know it's too much. I am wearing a size 18, and it should be 12 for my build. I have clothes I can't wear, and I get tired too easily. So - back to the gym, and checking here for support! Thanks!

[pldennison]

Jodi: Okay, I've been not eating dairy or refined sugar for two weeks, and I just weighed myself and I've gained a pound.


Tell me about it. Turns out my starting weight that I originally posted of 205 lbs. was off, recalled from my last visit to the orthopedic doctor at the beginning of the year. I'm actually starting from 210. :(

But yeah, I'm with you--it's lean muscle mass! Now you'll start some serious fat burning.

I met on Saturday with one of the physical trainers at the gym, and we put together a beginning upper-body workout consisting of:

2 sets of inclined press at 70-80 lbs.
1 set of flat press at 80 lbs.
2 sets of flys at 30-40 lbs.
2 sets of pull-downs at 75 lbs.
2 sets of compound row at 70 lbs.
2 sets of bicep curls at 50 lbs.
2 sets of tricep curls at 40 lbs.

(Boy, those weight numbers sure show how out-of-shape I am . . .)

I'm going to do this for a week, along with some cardio on the treadmill or bike, then next Saturday we'll see how it's going and put together a lower-body routine that I can alternate. After two more weeks, we'll check my progress, make adjustments, and keep on moving.

Needless to say, I'm sore as hell. That second day of a new routine is hard, and I really had to push myself to get the last couple of reps out of each set.

[Jodi]

Go Phil! I see you can still lift your arms up high enough to type -- way to go! :)

But are you doing that routine every day? Seems to me I heard somewhere that to maximize a weight routine you should work a muscle one day and then rest one day -- so do upper body and lower body on alternate days. Has anyone else heard this, or am I just off in my own little world again? Anyway, you might check with your trainer.

I walked to church and back today (memo to self: wear flats, not heels, if walking to church), which was not hard enough to constitute an actual workout, but it did constitute "getting off my ass," which is pretty much all I can ask on a Sunday. And I did not eat the big piece of CHEESECAKE with FRESH HUCKLEBERRY SAUCE that was offered to me for desert last night. Heck, if I continue to do this well, I should gain at least two pounds next week! :rolleyes:

Looking forward to reading everyone's Monday morning reports!

[porcupine]

Jodi,

You're right - the general concensus is that it's not a good to work the same muscle groups two days in a row. My PT concurs. It has something to do with the muscles fibers needing to recover to grow. If you're doing high reps with low weights, this probably isn't going to apply, but then again if you're doing high reps with low weights, you're probably not going to be gaining much muscle mass anyway.

I try to lift 3 times a week, but I am on hold now since my herniated disk is acting up. :( I hate being stuck at home - I can only sit for about 30 minutes at a time, then I have to go get horizontal somewhere. I am dreading my next workout because I suspect it's not going to be for a week or two and it'll probably hurt like hell. :eek:

One of the things I really like about resistance training is that if you don't rest much between sets, you can get a cardio workout at the same time. I hate cardio - the only time I spend on the cardio machines is to warm up.

BTW, "Weight Training for Dummies" has a lot of good info in it for newbies. I am definitely still a newbie at resistance training, and still have a lot to learn and a long way to go. But after about 6 weeks I started to notice the difference.

[TracyMarie]

Originally posted by iampunha

Maybe this is my (sometimes referred to as weird) personal tastes speaking, but I'm not seeing the bad part of this.

Wow. Wow, again. The other day you made my day and now you've just made my whole year. Thank you.

But glad you think I look good. At some point I'll agree with you, even:)

I think you look better than "good." And you can believe me.

What is it about us? We both think each other looks good, but we don't see it in ourselves. What gives?

Peace,
Tracy

[TracyMarie]

I did eat a lot this weekend, but that's Ok because I biked both Saturday and Sunday. And I also bought lots of healthy food for this week. No more fast food lunches.

Here's a link that might give inspiration. I like reading things like this when I'm trying to be healthy.


http://www.prevention.com/2000/52ways/page2.html


Peace,
Tracy

[nashiitashii]

Ok, I might as well put up some stats now...
age:17
height:5'9"-5'10"
weight:[no comment]
desired weight: lose enough so that my stomach's a teeny bit flatter and more muscular all over [approximately 10-20 lbs.]
I just want my clothes to fit more nicely, and to be able to wear a little bikini to the beach. Tankini will do for now.

[5que]

Say, Girl Next Door: why not get the puppy now and exercise with it? (I'm waiting myself for my field season to be over to get a Golden - love these dogs. I'll take her out in the field when she gets older.)

Not a bad idea!

If you're going to run with a dog, please make sure you get a breed that can handle it and be careful. Chicago has a "Bark in the Park" race where people run with their dogs. This year, three dogs died during the race!

[5que]

Originally posted by porcupine
BTW, "Weight Training for Dummies" has a lot of good info in it for newbies. I am definitely still a newbie at resistance training, and still have a lot to learn and a long way to go.

A good book -- I bunch of pages are hanging up in my basement. Another good resource I use with the Dummies book is GetFit, http://www.getfit.com Go to the Interactive Fitness section and you can customize a bunch of weight exercises (free weights, body weight, weight machines). Video clips show the correct way to do the lift, very useful to make sure you're doing it right.

[Ceejaytee]

Today I walked for 1 hour on the treadmill, then did 3 sets of 12 reps on the leg press at 100 lbs, and 3 sets of 12 reps on the calf raise machine at 20 lbs (my ankles and calves are weak).

Of course, I'm eating everthing I can get my hands on, damnit.

My husband and I are planning our Utah trip--it looks like we'll be hiking at least 10 days of the 14 we will be away. Sort of kick-starting my fitness plan.

[Mr. Cynical]

*urp*

Let's see.

Saturday: since friday obviously did not count.

Woke up, and cooked SOS. Ate it all with 8 slices of buttered toast. (SOS, aka Shit On a Shingle: Ground or chipped beef, flour, milk, salt pepper, served over toasted bread). 1 Lb of ground beef used. Whole milk, Vitamin D enriched. For a beverage, I had more milk.

Lunch: tortilla chips with a hint of lime, dipped in salasa con queso. And beer.

Dinner: 16 oz. New York Strip, 6 grilled shrimp, broccoli with butter, garlic bread, pina colada milkshake.

Late night snack: 5 slices hard salami.


Sunday was a blur, but was McDonalds night. 2 Big Macs for $2. I ate 4, and a super-size fries.

[Tymp]

Saturday was spent guzzling beer, wolfing down grilled vegetables, and running around like a madman. No, really, like a madman. I went to war, you see. Block wide water gun battles are the only way to exercise. Think I’m kidding? You try sprinting in a low crouch, rolling across lawns, leaping over the neighbors flowerbeds, and getting completely waterlogged for a few hours and tell me you’re not sore the next day. Heck, my thighs and ass still burn today!

I think I will try to avoid normal, traditional methods of exercise for as long as I can. This week will be spent hauling truckloads of computers all over New Hampshire and Massachusetts while eating loads of rich food purchased with company money. I should be able to add on at least a kilo with all that heavy lifting and eating. If all goes well, I’ll spend next weekend rowing vigorously in a local lake only taking breaks to suck down some scotch and picnic-y foods. As Autumn swoops in and closes it’s dreary, chilly grasp on New England, I go back to my formal martial arts training 2 to 4 days a week. I’m long overdue for a good ass whippin’ anyway. In winter, I’ll take up skiing – a surefire way to harden the legs, trim the ass and empty out the wallet! By New Year, I’ll be the great and sinewy Adonis of my dreams (and everyone else’s)! Yay for me!

What do the Doper’s think? Is this a good way for me to put on weight and harden my body, or am I headed for certain disaster? Is it important for me to have a routine to gain weight, or should I continue to do random weird stuff that requires serious physical exertion?

[Bottle of Smoke]

Mr. C -- Sounds like you can be my workout buddy anytime. My Sunday went like this: Breakfast: Donuts, scrambled eggs, bacon, coffee.
Lunch: Turkey sandwich with bacon leftover from breakfast, chips, crackers with cheese and venison sausage, one beer (new Glarus Uff-Da Bock. Extra thick).
Snacks during the Packer game: Venison sausage, cheese, crackers, nachos, 3 more bocks.
Dinner: One hamburger and three bratwurst on the grill, baked beans, potato salad, chips. For dessert, a huge bowl of Breyers Cherry Vanilla ice cream. It lacked something, so I added a handful of Hershey's chocolate chips.
Thought about going down to the basement and working out, but wound up watching football all night instead.

[porcupine]

Originally posted by 5que
[QUOTE]
If you're going to run with a dog, please make sure you get a breed that can handle it and be careful. Chicago has a "Bark in the Park" race where people run with their dogs. This year, three dogs died during the race!

Excellent point. Also, it's not considered a good idea to do long runs with your puppy, particularly on pavement, until the dog is at least 6 months old, because it's very easy for them to damage their joints running on pavement, and a silly puppy doesn't know when he's had too much.

http://www.k9web.com is a good resouce for anything doggie-related.

[Doobieous]

Today I started riding my bike around a section of town. It really wasn't bad at all. I took along my walkman to listen to some tapes, and the tapes really helped keep it from being boring. I had to be careful, i started singing along.....don't want strangers thinking i'm some weirdo or something :). I went around 4 times, which took me 45 minutes to do.

The only realy sore part of me is right where my leg muscles meet my glutes.....yeesh. Well, i guess i'll only be doing that every other day so my muscles can recover. Probably on the off days i'll do pushups and sit ups, that kind of stuff. Anyway, it's not as bad as I thought. Changing the seat to the wider one really did help.

If I keep this up, I may actually be thin by the time my brother's wedding happens (in about 1 year from now). The only problem with losing weight.......all the clothes i've bought recently might be too loose (the pants mostly).

[Sn-man]

Been a bad boy this weekend. Booze on Saturday, booze on Sunday. That stuff has LOTS of calories.

[as_u_wish]

I hope this isn't a double post--forgive me, if it is.

Can't help chiming in here. I've only seen a few here whose physical health has really gotten out of control! Good job everyone on being willing to tackle it early. I nearly waited too long.

Vital stats: 48 years old, 5 feet 6 inches.

Weight: Well, I'm too embarrassed, actually. I'll only say that no one on here has yet posted a weight as high as mine when I started (and, yes, I saw that 263--not close). I was wearing size 28 or larger at my worst. I won't say how far I have to go, because I don't regard this as something with an end point, but rather a change in the way I live. But I'm lookin' good. :)

What motivated me: I nearly died from overweight and related complications. I realized I would have died from neglect, from not taking care of myself. How stupid.

How I started exercise: Very very very very very slowly. I couldn't walk 30 minutes. Not just my heart and lungs couldn't take it--my knees and feet couldn't either. It HURT. So I walked 5 minutes, three or four times a day, but every single day. I now walk over an hour a day--sometimes in segments, sometimes all together, and two or more hours a day on weekends. I have not missed one day since I started. I don't intend to. I'm hoping to "walk a marathon" in the spring.

How I started weights--got some hand weights and just looked at them for months. Too intimidating. They sat on my dresser and mocked me. My kids played with them, the cat sniffed at them, but I didn't touch them, except to dust on rare occasions. And then, one day, I just started using them. Read the instructions in the box. Was easy.

How I started new eating habits: Wonderful nutritionist told me to eat 8-10 servings of fresh fruits and vegetables a day, two servings of skim milk, cut down on the meat & fat, increase the whole grains, and do it for the rest of my life. I have. I will.

Thanks for starting this thread. I'd welcome an e-mail "life-style-change" buddy who's also dealing seriously with mega-weight loss issues.

[vanilla]

Peta, lets meet in the middle! 180 lbs. By Xmas.
WHoever gets closer buys the other a veggie meal!

[ChrisCTP]

I was bad today. I exercised (I guess). Walked 3 blocks to school, walked probably a mile and a half while at school (much of it stairs), and walked 3 blocks home.

Breakfast: can o' Coke.
Lunch: Snicker bar, and a can o' Coke.
Currently (let's call it un-supper, since it's suppertime but I haven't made any supper yet): can o' Coke.

Calories from the Cokes:
420, 0 fat
Calories from the Snicker bar:
280, 130 fat

Total caloric intake so far for the day: 700, 130 fat (less than recommended limit of 30% of calories from fat...at least there's that.)

So...what's a good daily calorie limit? Think I can have like, a turkey sandwich later or something if I switch to water for the rest of the night?

[techchick68]

I started the Somersizing way of eating. (ChrisCTP thinks I am nuts ;) )

After discussing the basics of the program to my older brother, he said that his swim coach in college (about 15 years ago) preached the same principles to his team. Since a major university swim coach said this is the way to go 15 years ago I am reinforced by Suzanne Somers' way of eating.

The cool thing is, there is no calorie counting, no set portions and very little to cut out. The only problem I have is cutting out my beer!


Here are the basics of her Level One if anyone is interested in finding out more about it.

Fruits -- eat on an empty stomach. Wait 20 minutes before eating a carbo based meal and an hour before eating a protein/fat based meal.

Carbos, do not eat with any protein or fat foods. Yep that means you don't indulge in fettucini alfredo or toast with butter. Also, you do not eat refined flours, only whole grain foods. This is fine with me because I prefer the nuttier taste of whole grain pasta, breads and such.

Proteins/fats, do not eat with carbos. Pretty simple actually. Instead of that roll with your steak, add a few extra vegies.

A few no-nos, sugared foods (no problem I rarely eat sugar), alcohol (problem here, I love my beer and it's full of carbs but I am cutting back!) certain nuts, avocados, caffiene (no problem here I have hardly been drinking coffee for two months, mostly water), low fat or whole milk (technically this is a combo food -- both fat and carbs) but no-fat milk is considered a carbo.

Anyhow, it seems complicated but really isn't. The only disappointing news I got was cutting out potatoes and corn. She states that it causes a sugar surge and adds weight, which makes sense since most of my weight has come from processed flours, lots of potatoes and the like in the past three years (high starch foods).

The main thing is, your body digests these foods in different ways. When you combine the foods (carbs with fats/protiens) your digestive system is unable to digest the food properly. Another point my brother reinforced to me.

Anyhow, just thought I would add my steps to loosing some inches and weight. I even joined a message board dedicated to Somersizing.

[porcupine]

techchick68,

Everyone is different, and you have to find what eating and/or exercise plan works for you. I got razzed all the time by my work buddies when I started on the Atkins program over a year and a half ago - they started calling me "No Carb Barb" - I corrected them and told them it's "Low Carb Barb" :) Once the weight loss was obvious, they shut up.

Good luck!

[Strainger]

Jodi, it does sounds like you're adding on some muscle weight. Seriously. I wouldn't worry about it.

I'm hardly the epitome of a stellar physique, but I am in much better shape than I was about 5 1/2 years ago when I started exercising. I was a bit of a chunky monkey then. Whatever diet/exercise routine you choose, make sure you can stick with it. You have to think of it as a permanent lifestyle change, not a temporary diet. For example, you want your exercize routine to be something you enjoy, or at least not hate too much. And yes, you do have to ease into it; I didn't start off running as fast or lifting as much as I do now. Also, you're not going to get in shape overnight (Lord knows my abs haven't); be persistent and don't get discouraged. Also be aware of your physical limitations. If I could run every day I would, but my knees and hips require some recovery time, so I alternate with the elliptical trainer. Also accept the fact that, due to genetic limitations, most of y'all are probably not going to end up posing for the covers of health and beauty magazines, present company included. Once you get in shape, it's very rewarding. My encouragement goes out to every one of you!

[DRY]

Originally posted by iampunha
Forgot to say . . . IMNSHO, the biggest thing you had going against you in the "before" pics was the hair. Poofy and up doesn't suit you nearly as well as relaxed and down:)

I guess Iampunha is one poster who's never going to be accused of being Mark Serlin! :p

Re all of your efforts--Good luck to you all. I don't need to lose weight, but I could afford to gain muscle.

Good looks would also help.

[Ceejaytee]

Originally posted by as_u_wish
I'm hoping to "walk a marathon" in the spring.

Hey, as_u_wish: I walked a marathon! Dublin 1997. I raised money for the Leukemia Society. If you want help in walking a marathon and you want to go to an interesting place (Alaska, Hawaii, London, Dublin, Boston, etc.) check out the Team in Training page (http://www.lsa-teamintraining.org/) and see if they have a chapter near you. (Of course this only works if you're in the US, but other countries have similar projects). There is also charity marathon training for other diseases like arthritis. Search the net.

They give you an entire walking schedule to build up to 26.2 miles, lots of support, a trainer, cool t-shirts, etc. Walking the marathon was the coolest thing I've ever done. I was trying to finish in 6:30 hours, but I got a hamstring cramp, and then a blister on my heel, so I finished in 7:30 hours instead. I was in pain for days, but it was worth it. If you want any more information, drop me a line or I'll post it here.

[Michi]

I want to be really, really good this month and lose another 3 pounds before the Rochester meeting. And guys, when I am there, don't let me binge! After I get off this damn computer, I am going to clean house and then do a workout tape.

[techchick68]

A slice of turkey with mustard on top.

6 cut up cherry tomatoes with a little Italian dressing.

A slice of chedder jack cheese.

A break from the ordinary for sure, but hey not bad for my first meal of the day I kinda like it!

< note: only water, no coffee >

[Odieman]

I've had a bit of trouble shaving the last two days. My second chin is starting to recede and so there is a flat spot about 1/3 of an inch long. I can shave that fine, but the junction is rather difficult to shave. I guess that's the price I'll have to pay for progress. :)
Keith

[Strainger]

By the way, when I said "present company included," I meant "myself included." I'm still trying to get that English thing down. Also, I've been exercising for 4 1/2 years, not 5 1/2. Still working on that math thing too.

[techchick68]

Strainger,

Guess that means you are an engineer of the choo-choo kind?

< giggle >

:::::runs really fast:::::

[KimKatt]

Sounds like everyone is starting out well, keep it going!

I got on my treadmill last night, finally. 20 minutes, it's a start. Slept better than I have in a while, that's a definite benefit!

Also stocked up the fridge on fresh veggies and some fruit on the weekend. That used to be at least 50% of my diet, and I need to get it back to that.

A couple of people asked about yoga videos, I didn't see a response. Does anyone have one they can recommend? The yoga class I wanted to sign up for is at the same time as the Acrylic Painting class that I just signed up for, and as that is one of my other self improvement goals, the actual class will have to wait for now.

Silver Fire, that's not a cookie in your hand, is it? Please say the same back to me about those pieces of chocolate and those darned sunflower seeds!!!

[Mr. Cynical]

Today's Lunch:

A loaf of bread,

A container of milk,

And a stick of buttah.

[techchick68]

Sheesh Cynical, whatcha trying to do, clog your arteries?

I had a bowl of refried beans (no fat) mixed with salsa. I forgot the whole wheat tortillas at the store the other day! I ate all my tomatoes this morning so there's no veggies except for the stuff in the salsa. HEHE, I also added two packets of Taco Hell's mild seasoning -- that's got a little kick to it.

Hey it sounds weird but I enjoy simple foods.

A protein/fat based breakfast, a carb lunch and for dinner? Any ideas? I am heading to the grocery store in a couple of hours. Should be a protein based meal, no carbs at night! I am thinking I will cut out some fat tonight though.

[SaxFace]

Hm, to me it doesn't seem that people are doing all that well. Coke and Snickers for breakfast?

I'm also worried that some people aren't eating enough protein or calories. You need to eat energy to burn energy - please don't starve yourselves. I like your diet tips, techchick.

I'm still eating at least 2000 calories a day - they just happen to be from fish, vegetables, fruits and bread. If/when I eat less, I get sleepy, cranky and lethargic.

Also, I think we have to remember to get our target heart-rates up to the cardiovascular zone at least 3 times a week. Walking a mile probably won't do that for most of us.

I have to do 30 minutes of intense, back-breaking, sweat dripping exercise to get into the zone. And in one month, I've only lost 10 lbs. But my doc says it's the healthy way to do it - the way to keep the weight off.

The best news is that I've gone from a D cup (bra size) to a C cup. Ahhh, I can see my feet again!

Thanks for the info about doing different muscle groups on alternate days, Jodi and porcupine. But what about swimming? I swim for an hour each morning - should I be doing some machine work some days instead?

[ChrisCTP]

It's 2:40, and all I've had all day is a Coke (just opened it.)

I'm not hungry! I hate this! I love food. I love all kinds of food. I even like to cook. But what's the point if I don't feel hungry? Honestly, in my kitchen, I have a salmon, chicken breasts, lean pork and hamburger "at least 95% lean". I have carrots, lettuce, peppers, tomatoes, and a cucumber, and nice selection of salad dressings. I have wheat bread. Yogurt. Apples, oranges and grapes. And etc. My kitchen is pretty well-stocked with good-for-you things, because I LOVE good-for-you things. That Snicker bar I had yesterday was the first candy bar I've had in I-can't-even-remember.

Re: Exercise. I'm actually pretty satisfied with the level of exercise I do...for the moment anyway. When I lived in Des Moines, I lived ground floor and drove everywhere. Now I live here, I have a second floor walk-up (no A/C, btw) and I drive my car maybe two times a week. This, as far as I'm concerned, is exercise, because until school started three weeks ago, I'd been sitting on my ass being the poster girl for Sedentary Living.

Ok, so I should up my level of exercise even more, right? Try to do something in the morning after I get up. Will that make me hungry, d'ya think?

Gawd, my body sucks.

[Mr. Cynical]

Okay, I'm starting in earnest. As soon as I finish this delightful Dr. Pepper, I begin the Mr. Cynical Freedom Diet. Watch the pounds melt away, suckers!!!

[red_dragon60]

Martial arts and riding has kept me thus far pretty slim. Too slim, so I need to put on muscle. I am planning to up the regimen that I already do. In 3 weeks I hope to be a little bit better

Name: Red_dragon60
Age:15
Weight: 124 lbs
Intended Weight: 130 in muscle

I know it's not gonna happen overnight, or even in a month, but I'll work on it.

[techchick68]

Chris,

This is a radical idea, but worth a try. Since you are having a hard time eating throughout the day, why not skip dinner tonight (of course make dinner for Bowen) then start eating in the morning? I am not sure how healthy that is but people do fast so I assume one night wont harm you. A small bowl of Grape Nuts and no-fat milk might do the trick for you. (that's what I am having for breakfast tomorrow -- just thought we could work together on this!)

Also, I started to eat a little something about lunch time last weekend, my dinners are less food and now I wake up and my stomach is telling me it's hungry.

No, you don't have to have a seven course meal breakfast, lunch and dinner, but if you start to train your body to need that food your body will respond in kind. Essentially you have been doing what I had been doing, starving your body for 24 hours. By doing that, your body holds on to that weight because you are starving it. During lunch have a non-fat yogurt. I started with whole grain bagels with no-fat cream cheese, and found that the next morning, after a light meal of proteins the night before, my body decided it needed breakfast. Three days in a row I have had breakfast and dinner, two of those days I had lunch. Today, I had to have lunch as my hunger was snarling at me.

[KimKatt]

My husband never used to eat breakfast or lunch. He would then start eating when he got home, and snack all the way up till bedtime.

I convinced him to try eating breakfast in the morning. He said the same, that he wasn't hungry mornings, but tried it anyway. When he eats breakfast in the morning, he is hungry again to eat lunch, doesn't eat until dinnertime when he gets home, and snacks far less at night. He lost 10-15 pounds without even thinking about it.

Now that he is trying to quit smoking, I can't get him to stop eating :) but he is working on it.

[iampunha]

Originally posted by TracyMarie
Wow. Wow, again. The other day you made my day and now you've just made my whole year. Thank you.

I think you look better than "good." And you can believe me.

What is it about us? We both think each other looks good, but we don't see it in ourselves. What gives?


This is probably the lack of sleep speaking, but what did I say the other day that made your day?

I can surely believe something you think. That doesn't make it fact:) As for what it is, I think it's that I was raised to think I wasn't anything to look at, and I'm guessing you've heard things from people in that same sense. Not that either party was correct, just that this is what it seems to have been.

pldennison, don't worry about the amount of weights you lift. Better to go light and not risk hurting yourself . . . besides, you're not trying to gain muscle but burn fat.

For those of you who are walkers/joggers/treadmillers . . . consider walking with 1-lb weights. Not around your ankles, as that will give you shin splints. Carry them in your hands. They'll tone your arms and burn more fat.

[Nika]

As a personal trainer I want to say congratualtions to ANYONE who realizes they deserve the time it takes to be healthy and accomplish what you want. It is not easy, especially if you are fighting a life long history of obesity or poor habits. I say you are truely an amazing group of people and i have the utmost respect for you all.

[TracyMarie]

Originally posted by iampunha

This is probably the lack of sleep speaking, but what did I say the other day that made your day?

When I said I had a weight problem, you looked at my picture and said you "couldn't see it." :)

As for what it is, I think it's that I was raised to think I wasn't anything to look at, and I'm guessing you've heard things from people in that same sense.

Yep. But those people who said that to you were wrong. Now let's get back to health talk! :)

Peace,
Tracy

[techchick68]

Well I had a good walk today with the dog. I went a little further than I have been < yipeeee > okay only about 5 more minutes but every extra bit is a little triumph in my book.

Tomorrow I am shooting for 45 minutes and Friday too as I will be with my family in Glenwood Springs on Saturday and Sunday -- we are taking the train up there so I wont probably be able to get in any decent walks until Monday.

There are a lot of hills to climb and the last leg of my walk is pretty hard -- pant, pant, pant all the way up. I will say that even though I am so out of shape, I am proud of walking as much as I am in on the trails I am. When I lived in Denver I would walk a lot farther but there aren't as many hills as there is where I am walking now. My butt and calves burn more :)

Dinner was turkey with a salad of tomatoes, broccoli and romain lettuce with an olive oil vinegarette. (Olive oil is 'sposedly a better oil for you if you choose to use an oil) and I have had about 80 ounces of water today!

[Doobieous]

Well, i went riding again today. I am actually less sore today than I was yesterday. I think I may enjoy this a lot :). I'll keep this up for a month and see what happens. Hopefully i'm doing this correctly.

[TracyMarie]

I am riding a bike too. I'm going at the highest gear (5) for about 30 minutes. That's how long I can last, then I'm breathing very hard, so I stop. I also do about 10 minutes of yoga stretches. I am really loving this. And I've already lost 2 pounds! I'd like to lose at least 5 more by Oct. 3rd (when my boyfriend comes to visit), but I realize that may be pushing things.

I'm eating better too. No more in-between meal snacks, and mexican food only on the weekends.

I'm learning a lot about healthy eating just from reading this thread. And Mr. Cynical cracks me up! :)

Thank you so much for starting this thread, PLD.

Peace,
Tracy

[Strainger]

As a matter of fact, I am an engineer. I have the blue and white striped cap to prove it!

[techchick68]

I have the blue and white striped cap to prove it!

I would like to see that, oh and...never mind.

[techchick68]

Where is everyone this afternoon?

[Coldfire]

Guys, you're gonna be SO proud of me. I made an appointment at my company gym for Friday, 1800-1900. I'm meeting with a professional trainer, and we're gonna set up a dedicated cardio program for me. I'm planning on working out 2 to 3 times a week, in one hour stints.

Woohoo! Look at that blubber fly! :D

[ChrisCTP]

One can of Coke. One small bowl of vegetable beef soup. One slice of 7-grain bread with a thin spread of butter.

And water. Lots of water.

[red_dragon60]

Got a hike in the woods today. Hot, sweaty, and fun! I think I will do it again soon. Good work to everyone who posts here!

[Doobieous]

Rode my bike around yet again :). It really seems to get a little easier as I keep this up. I can feel it in my legs, but they arent sore like the first day. But, i'm working on the eating habits. A bit hard when the parents run low on cash and you have to scrounge up whatever there is around for dinner (yes, it's a bit hard to get tons of veggies, especially when you are nearly broke!).

Anyway, all is well. This time around I actually look forward to riding my bike instead of dreading it. Perhaps i'm seeing this as a challenge, instead of a chore? But, when it starts getting into the rainy season, I may have to go to my school's gym (i might try to see which of my friends are available to go with, but we're all busy this year so I cant say for sure).

[techchick68]

Chris,

Only one can of coke and lots of water? I am proud of you!

Keep it up Chris, that's much better :)

[Silo]

Ok, so you people want to lose weight..........and keep it off. While dieting, changing your eating habits, etc... are excellent things to do, they alone aren't going to make a big difference (if they do, it's temporary). What makes a difference, long term and short term, is pure exercise.

Here are some things I've learned to do to manage my weight:

Your metabolism is typically highest from morning to noon. Your exercise time would be best served during this period. Also you should try to have your larger meals in the breakfest-to-lunch time frame, and have a smaller meal around dinner time.

Drink lots of water. They say to keep your muscles fully hydrated you should drink 1-2 gallons a day if you're female, and 2-3 gallons of water a day if you're male. At least have 1 gallon of water per day. It's very good for you.

Don't eat dry foods.

Eat lots of protein.

Avoid carbs in the evening.

Change your day to day routine: Instead of parking in front of the parking lot, park in the back. Use the stairs instead of the esculator/elevator.

If you work out 45 minutes, you'll burn some fat. If you workout a half hour longer you'll burn close to three times as much fat.

Listen to music when you work out, it gets your mind off the exercise, while stimulating releases of endorphins (natural pain killers)--hence making the exercise easier--allowing you to go further and faster.....The end result is a better workout.

[techchick68]

Silo said:

Ok, so you people want to lose weight..........and keep it off. While dieting, changing your eating habits, etc... are excellent things to do, they alone aren't going to make a big difference (if they do, it's temporary).

Silo, that is bullshit. (I am in the bullshit mode today) anyhow, if people change their eating habits this will make a difference long term. Poor eating habits are a prime problem with our population being overweight. It is a lifestyle change that people need to make. To say that changing your habits are only temporary is like telling a great majority of the people here, why bother, it wont work. Well it does, not only for weight purposes but for a healthier lifestyle over all. Many of us can not continue eating in the manner we have been and by changing our food habits we will loose weight and if we continue with good eating habits we will be able to maintain a healthy weight.

People do not need 1 1/4 hours of a strenuous work out to maintain a healthy body. Since I know you, you want more than to be simply healthy, you want bigger muscles. A great majority here want to be healthy and maintain a healthy weight but don't desire to look like last month's cover of "Weight Lifting" magazine.

As for water, there are many factors that determine your needs for water intake. 1-2 gallons is an extremelly high amount for the average woman. Sheesh, if I drank that much water in a day I would end up staying on the toilet and not have time to do anything else. I am between 60 and 80 ounces a day and this is good enough for me and my lifestyle.

If you are talking a person that is contantly working out, lives in a hot dry climate, then I can see where a high amount of water is needed, but for the average person 64 ounces is enough to maintain healthy hydration and elimination.

Well, you know you are my buddy but I will call it when I see it wrong for what the purpose is in this thread. This is not about being a bunch of body builders but to gain better eating habits and become more active to have a healthier and longer life.

[porcupine]

Originally posted by Silo
Ok, so you people want to lose weight..........and keep it off. While dieting, changing your eating habits, etc... are excellent things to do, they alone aren't going to make a big difference (if they do, it's temporary). What makes a difference, long term and short term, is pure exercise.


I agree with a most of what you said but take exception with this. I personally have lost 50 lbs and have kept it off for over a year (and actually lost another ten lbs, as a matter of fact) by changing my eating habits without any sort of serious exercise program. Now I want to gain muscle and lose a bit more fat, and for that I'm doing weight training two to three times a week (and sticking with my eating program). But I lost the bulk of the weight without exercising.

While exercise is certainly good and will boost weight loss, it's not universally true that you can't lose weight and keep it off just by changing your eating habits. It may be true for some people, but is certainly not an absolute.

[Ceejaytee]

Well, this morning I walked 1 hour on the treadmill, in my hiking boots. I haven't been paying attention to food at all, since, well, I have my period and all I do is crave salt and fat and restricting that would make me more than cranky--I would be SuperBitch!TM The food will just have to wait until next week.

To jump into the exercise vs. food fray, my doc says that exercise is the number 1 priority. The New England Journal of Medicine apparently recently published an article saying that for health benefits, you should work on a good exercise program first. I haven't seen the article myself, but if my doc says so, it must be true! Of course, that's no reason to eat bacon cheeseburgers all the time (ooh, maybe I shouldn't tempt Mr. Cynical that way) but I'm going to try to make exercise my #1 priority.

[KimKatt]

Getting there. 1/2 hour on the treadmill Tuesday night. Last night I started a two hour acrylic painting class, which is as important to my health as the physical fitness right now. I also ordered a yoga video from Chapters.

And I haven't been eating chocolate every day.

Still looking for the motivation/energy to work out in the morning... ugh.

Keep up the good work, dopers!

[TracyMarie]

Originally posted by techchick68

Thank goodness for this post. I was reading Silo's post and getting very nervous and discouraged. All that water, an hour and half of excercise, in the morning (I teach! excercise in the morning is impossible). I was beginning to think it was all a lost cause.

Peace,
Tracy

[Silo]

Silo, that is bullshit. (I am in the bullshit mode today) anyhow, if people change their eating habits this will make a difference long term. Poor eating habits are a prime problem with our population being overweight. It is a lifestyle change that people need to make. To say that changing your habits are only temporary is like telling a great majority of the people here, why bother, it wont work.

Yes changing your eating habits will make a difference (especially coupled with regular exercise), but from what I've seen, altering eating habits "alone" will not make a major difference. It's usually a subtle difference if any.

Poor eating habits are a problem, but a much bigger problem is lack of exercise. Don't forget that genetics play a huge role in determining a persons set-point weight.

I've seen many people change eating habits, do diets, etc...and you know what? After a few months they lose their desired weight. However, it seems like 95% of the time, a year later they have gained all the weight back (and sometimes more) while still sticking to the diet/change in eating habits. And why is this? Because you dip below your genetically predisposed set-point weight, your body comes to realize this, and your metabolism is slowed. Hence--the weight comes back.

I'm sorry hun but from what I've seen, tinkering around with your eating habits is not the best way to go about trying to lose weight.

People do not need 1 1/4 hours of a strenuous work out to maintain a healthy body. Since I know you, you want more than to be simply healthy, you want bigger muscles. A great majority here want to be healthy and maintain a healthy weight but don't desire to look like last month's cover of "Weight Lifting" magazine.

I wasn't referring to weight training, I was referring to cardio-vascular exercise and the much added fat burning benefits of extending your exercise session a little.

While exercise is certainly good and will boost weight loss, it's not universally true that you can't lose weight and keep it off just by changing your eating habits.

Yes, it's not universally true, but generally speaking I'd say it is true.

[Peta Tzunami]

Originally posted by techchick68
As for water, there are many factors that determine your needs for water intake. 1-2 gallons is an extremelly high amount for the average woman. Sheesh, if I drank that much water in a day I would end up staying on the toilet and not have time to do anything else. I am between 60 and 80 ounces a day and this is good enough for me and my lifestyle.[/B]

Good on-line resource: Water.com's Hydration Calculator (http://www.water.com/learn_about_water/swg1340_hydcal.asp); it gives you a good idea what your intake should be. To my understanding 64 ounces (8, 8 oz glasses) is the minimum the average person should be drinking every day. When additional exercise (and presumably perspiration) are added to the equation, that number naturally goes up. Actually, I've done 120 oz/day before and average number of trips to the restroom were about once an hour (after an adjustment period during which it was about every half-hour).

Just (pardon the expression) food for thought.

[tatertot]

:( I started this weekend with the best intentions, but we ate at friend's houses Saturday, Sunday & Monday night and I was too busy socializing those 3 days to do any exercise. So, I figured I'd just start on Tuesday, which I had every intention of doing, but...

...The people I ate dinner with on Monday night had two kittens. Cute as buttons they were, unfortunately I am very, very allergic to cats. It's Thursday night, and I'm just now starting to breathe properly again.

I have had a lot of time to think, what with being immobile and all, and I have come up with these resolutions:

1. I will cut back on coffee (which I drink all morning instead of eating) and start eating a balanced breakfast every morning. My little boy starts school on Monday, so this seems to be an ideal time to get both of us into the healthy breakfast habit.

2. I will walk Nicholas to and from school every day, unless the weather is really, really bad. This is about 1 1/2 miles of extra walking every day, very good for both of us.

3. I will serve and eat more vegetables and less convience foods. I will plan ahead so that we aren't stuck at 5 pm with nothing to eat, a cranky child and nowhere to turn except McDonalds or Popeyes.

4. I will sign up for a personal trainer even though it costs money. One, I think I am more likely to stick to it if I have money invested; two, I think that looking out for my own well being is just as important as using the money to buy the child another cute outfit or toy.

5. I will no longer keep any soda in the house, it's too tempting and empty calories. I will also not buy any more chips, snacky cakes or pastries. If I want something sweet, I will have to make it myself (theory being if I have to make an effort to have it, I will not want it so badly)



I hope that by posting my list on this message board, I will feel an obligation to make good and stick with my plans. Keep up the good work everybody, and keep those good ideas coming! :)

[Michi]

Got a new workout tape today, Kathy Smith's Lift Weight to Lose Weight. It has 2 20 minute weight routines, one for upper one for lower. Do one or do both. Movements are very easy to follow and all you need at home are hand weights and a chair. My arms feel like wet noodles right now. Alternate that with her cardio (also easy to follow) tape, or her step tapes, and you've got a good workout for the week.

One big problem I am having is obsession right now. I get on the scale every single day, and I know I shouldn't. I'm obsessed with that damn number. I also suffer from guilt. Every time I eat something, even if it is something healthy. I want to be 115 so damn bad! I feel guilty when I don't exercise.

On a more positive note, I have noticed that after a while, cravings for bad stuff go away. Last week I sat in the kitchen with several of my coworkers and watched them eat Checkers hamburgers and fries, and drink milkshakes, while I ate my celery sticks and baked chicken and drank a diet soda. Yeah, I snuck about 5 fries, but that's OK. And last week at the grocery store, I spotted a new dessert--Hazelnut Gelato from Haagen-Dazs. I made a single serving cup of the stuff last me 4 days. One or two tablespoons and I feel as if I have treated myself and I stop right there.

I will be a size 6 again!

[Doobieous]

Dont feel obligated to exercise, do it because you want to. As I said earlier, now it's becoming more of a challenge that I look forward to meeting. I got antsy and bored today, so instead of hopping on the computer I hopped on my bike. It's actually interesting to ride around and see other people either running or walking, and see all the places I pass them at (one guy was annoying me.......he kept jogging on the side of the rode against traffic, so I had to go around him, avoiding cars). I was riding with traffic on the road (i think i'm the only bike rider who actually stops at the stop signs like I should).

Also, that big hill I climb at the end of each lap, i can make it up it without standing up on the pedals to make the bike go. It's still quite an effort, and I get all hot, sweaty, and tired, but It's a great feeling when I make it (not to mention I get a nice, fast, short cruise down the other side of it). Good news is, I think my legs are getting used to this now. They dont stay sore for as long as they were, and while they do burn while i'm riding the bike, it's only during the exercise that they burn.

[Peta Tzunami]

Today I will be doing the "ridding my house of fleas" workout. (If I'm not totally pooped at hte end of the whole thing, I'll doing my strength training--Sweatin' and Tonin' workout.) Its a rigorous, high impact, limited time program that involves leaving your cats at the vet and vacuuming, washing everything in your house, and laundering all clothing and linens, then moving all the furniture around and vacuuming again. I figure it'll be a good four to six-hour workout with interruptions for getting more quarters for the washer and dryer.

I found an interesting link for anyone interested at About.com, its an Activity Calorie Counter (http://exercise.about.com/health/exercise/blcaloriesburned.htm). You plug in your weight and the amount of time you'll spend doing activities and it calculates the calories you'll burn in several pre-determined activities.

On the subject of working out to lose weight, I don't think its ABSOLUTELY necessary for weight loss for every single person, BUT (and that's a huge BUT) from EVERYTHING I've read about weight loss, fitness and maintaining good health, I think that some form of moderate activity/exercise is important at least 3 to 5 times a week to maintain and healthy, fit body.

Debate if you want, I trust the scientists, doctors, nutritionists and fitness experts I've read who stand by these claims and the people I've heard testify to this fact. No quick fixes to good health even if there are faster ways to lose weight. I also believe/think that a lot of fit people work these activities into their daily lives as (I believe--yes, I'm too lazy at the moment to check) Silo said little things like parking further from the office or grocery store door, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, etc.

Well, I'd love to share longer but my WORKOUT is waiting to begin... <sigh>

[Mr. Cynical]

*burp*

Tonight's fare:

3 Big Macs.
1 Super size french fries
1 Super size coke
1 Stouffer's french bread pizza
1 Sunkist orange cola.

That's for dinner, so far. I'll let you know if I consume more.

[Coldfire]

Cynical, you fast food slut!

Folks, please ask him to tell you the story which may or may not involve the following elements:

1) A dog;
2) McDonalds pickles;
3) Cynical's wife;
4) Drool.

Don't ask me. I'm too shy to type it out loud.

***

As for me, I started working out at the company gym last Friday, and am returning there this afternoon at 5. 40 minutes of cardio -which burns fat- and twenty minutes of muscle excersises. Repeat twice a week.

Plus, I'm gonna play an hour of squash wednesday night. I used to play it before, and it's the most excrutiating game there is. Just what I need.

Even bought new Asics indoor shoes and a snazzy Prince squash racket this weekend.

Plus, *I* am watching my food intake, unlike some others :p

[Doobieous]

Originally posted by Coldfire

Plus, *I* am watching my food intake, unlike some others :p

Good for you, coldy! I'm glad to see you working on this, unlike that bastard Mr.C who is only in here to try and be funny! :).

As for me, i took a break over the weekend (i cant exercise EVERY day!), mostly because of Sue Duhnym's party, but also, i just wanted to. I was reading some stuff online and it said to maximize fat burning to workout in the mornings, and also to not eat anything three hours til you exercise, and an hour after (the hour after your body is burning the fat. The 3 hours prior makes sure you dont have anything in your stomach, I guess). However, for me this means getting up at 7 am, and not eating til about 2 pm (I have a solid block of classes between 9 and 2 four days of the week). So i guess i'll stick to my regular shedule of exercising around 3:30 pm each day.

[Ceejaytee]

I said I was going to work out 5 days a week, and last week I only managed 2 days. Oh well.

Today, I walked on the treadmill for 1 hour. I'm going to skip the strength training this week and stick to walking since I'm going on a 2-week hiking vacation on Saturday. I figure walking is what I need to do.

I thought I was eating badly, until I read Mr. C's posts. It makes my stomach hurt just thinking about it. ;)

[techchick68]

Well, I spent Thursday and Friday doing too much other stuff so I didn't get around to walking either day.

I have kept to my eating plan though and on Sunday while up in Glenwood Springs I split from the family and got in some good walking though. I guess I went at least 3 miles.

I learned that even while out -- restaurants and such -- I can stick to my meals and feel satisfied.

Saturday on the train I ordered a hamburger, ripped off the bun smoothered it with mustard, mayo and ketchup, piled on the lettuce, onion (red onion yum) and tomato.

Saturday night was a little harder, they had nice looking refined flour rolls and a cheesy potato (kind of a scalloped potato) but I resisted eating both although I did sample a small bite of the potatoes. After the dinner I realized I didn't miss either because I enjoyed my salad, the vegies and the large steak.

Sunday morning consisted of scrambled eggs (not my favorite though but it was a brunch) and bacon. I realized that a served meal might be better for this camper as I like my eggs sunny side up and my bacon without a bunch of course pepper on it.

Sunday lunch I had a huge ham and turkey salad with cheese and various other things topped with ranch dressing. I ended up eating at Denny's (most of the rest of the family ate a late breakfast so I was on my own) but it was pretty good.

Well, it just goes to show that you can change your eating habits and follow them on a vacation without feeling deprived (well on my plan anyhow.) Oh and the more people realized what I was doing it made for good conversation as well.

Anyhow, keep up the good work folks.

Cynical -- you can have all my junk food if you want, but remember what your doc told you...

[Ceejaytee]

I spent another hour on the treadmill this morning, trying to do hills (I got to a 4% grade). I'm starting to worry about whether I'm going to be able to hike this vacation or if I'm going to suffer. Probably a little of both.

[TracyMarie]

Originally posted by Ceejaytee
I'm starting to worry about whether I'm going to be able to hike this vacation or if I'm going to suffer. Probably a little of both.

Do you think that maybe some weight lifting for your thighs might help? It would give you some strength in your legs and might ease things a little while you're hiking.

Mr. Cynical, how in the world can you eat so much? It's amazing! Have you ever won a pie-eating contest? ;)

Well, I'm proud of myself. I biked for at least 30 minutes five days last week. I also did some arm work three days. This week I'm going to alternate arm work and sit ups and try to bike five days again.

As for eating, I'm trying to do well. I only eat carbs during the day. I take vitamens. I drink lots of water. And I don't eat between meals and no dessert. Sigh.

I've gone from 172 to 169!

Peace,
Tracy

[Falcon]

*sticks head in*

Um, anyone mind if I join late? I've lost 25 pounds so far, and need to lose about another 100. I'm back on track after a couple of (okay, more like 4 weeks of) slipping here and there. I'm tired of being this weight, so I really want to get out and do it this time. I'm on a VERY strict diet (1200 calories a day, baby!), so now I just need to start exercising. Which I hate. :(

[Mr. Cynical]

Originally posted by TracyMarie
Mr. Cynical, how in the world can you eat so much? It's amazing! Have you ever won a pie-eating contest? ;)
In a manner of speaking, yes :D

[iampunha]

Originally posted by Falcon
I'm on a VERY strict diet (1200 calories a day, baby!), so now I just need to start exercising. Which I hate. :(

Just remember our deal . . . maybe that will help a bit:)

I haven't weighed myself recently, but I'm pretty sure I'm still at 155 lbs. Damn annoying, but I got tired of forcefully feeding myself to try to gain weight, so I'll just stick around for moral support (and an "after" picture for anyone who likes).

[Michi]

Hanging in there at 121. Did a 30 minute weight tape today, and I'll prolly do 30 of aerobics later. Fit into a smaller pair of shorts today...still a little too tight to be comfy, but a few weeks ago I couldn't even get them on. And all my scurbs are fitting looser.

Congrats to Falcon for losing so much!

[pldennison]

Well, according to the scale in our bathroom, I've lost 3-4 pounds. I just hope it isn't, like, not zeroed or something. :)

I'm on my third week of going to the gym, now, and I've only missed one day. I've met with the trainer twice now and put together a complete upper- and lower-body program that I can use on alternate days. That plus 20 minutes on the treadmill for cardio work (I'm getting my heart rate into a good zone) will do for the time being.

Keep it going, folks!

[Mr. Cynical]

Today's Lunch Menu:

Taco Bell

2 Soft Tacos
2 Beef Chalupas (baja)
1 Beef Gordita (baja)
2 Big Beef Burritos Supreme

1 can Sprite

Total caloric intake: 2780

Woooohoooo!

[monster]

Whew! This is a long thread! Keep up the good work everybody. I just thought I'd give you an update of what I'm doing:

Got my new exercise bike last Monday. It is the kind with the moving arms (I hope you know what I mean) I rode it Monday and Tuesday - 3 miles each day. Again on Thursday for 3.5. Saturday morning for 3.5 and Sunday morning for 4. Took Monday off and rode last night for 3.5.

I'm also doing the Slim Fast breakfast and lunch with 2 fruits during work hours. For dinner, I usually have a gardenburger on a 98% fat free tortilla. I put salsa and low fat sour cream as the condiments.

I have been bad once or twice during dinner, but NO FAST FOOD!! I had lobster Ravioli for dinner on Monday. That's about the worst of it.

My problem is too much beer drinking. But I have tried to drink light beer in place of my beloved Sam Adams. And if I have a Jack and Coke, I use Diet Coke (something I SWORE I'd never drink, but with Jack, it's OK)

So, I'm open to any suggestions here. Again, my goal is to lose 10 lbs and get in better general shape. I normally eat pretty healthy foods, so I'm just doing the Slim Fast now to drop some pounds.

[techchick68]

Sheesh Cynical stop rubbing your horrible eating habits in the face of those of us that are wanting our typical:

Pintos and Cheese
2 taco supremes
Burrito Supreme with guacamole

< been craving this for a month now! as I started better eating habits before Vegas >

Or a Big Mac with large fries topped with loads of ketchup.

Well, I had my refried bean soup thing today for lunch, I like it.

Tonight is ham with mustard (lots of ham) and huge salad with full fat Ranch dressing with bacon on it (the real thing not those awful fake bacon bit things.)