I am the Biggest Loser...Kinda.

[christie]

Hey all.. a couple of questions (I ask here since I may not make it tomorrow night):

First: for those that live in apartments, how do you deal with doing exercises while being respectful of neighbours below? I've been doing my workouts but am conscious of neighbours below and not wanting them to listen to me tromp about.

Second: I was at a blog recently and the author was photographing what they ate as a method of tracking stuff but also to be visually aware of what is eaten in the day. They would then post it to see what people thought of the meals. I was curious what others thought of this (I'm contemplating either doing a thread or blog entries on this)

Linus - for me and the way that I eat, this wouldnt be helpful. One of the great things for me about no/low carbing is that I dont really have to be mindful of portions.

I can see where it might be helpful, but also very, very vulnerable to do this blog photo thing in being that wide open to criticism.

The apt/exercise issue - When I lived in apts, I either used a gym or the exercise room in the complex.

[canmarielan]

Hey all.. a couple of questions (I ask here since I may not make it tomorrow night):

First: for those that live in apartments, how do you deal with doing exercises while being respectful of neighbours below? I've been doing my workouts but am conscious of neighbours below and not wanting them to listen to me tromp about.

Second: I was at a blog recently and the author was photographing what they ate as a method of tracking stuff but also to be visually aware of what is eaten in the day. They would then post it to see what people thought of the meals. I was curious what others thought of this (I'm contemplating either doing a thread or blog entries on this)

Linus,

I think for all of us there are things we are willing to make public and things we are not. For myself, it was a very important and hard decision to make this whole thing so public. I wanted accountability and criticism and help. I find all of these things. However, I do also find that I am receiving quite negative reactions as well.

I think that if you are going to do something so managed as a daily blog about what you have eaten including pictures of it, you should be prepared for AWESOME support. However, you must also be prepared, as christie stated, for negative criticism.

It is sad that our world is this way. The fact is, however, that it is this way.

I will support you 100% in whatever endeavor you undertake, my dear :)

-Candace


P.S.- I realized after my second Jillian Michaels workout that the neighbors downstairs might not appreciate the "pounding." I have decided to move my workouts to the gym at my apt. At 12midnight no one is there and I can pull up Jillian on demand on the TV's in there and work it out *wink*

Ok folks this weeks Weight Loss Support group is on Thursday at 7pm PST/10pm EST. Topic for the meeting this week is: Finding a weight loss buddy, and what they can do for you.

Look forward to seeing all of YOU. If you need the password, PM me. :weightshock:

So sorry I was working and couldn'tmake it. I do hope it went well. Perhaps I can have a brief synopsis of what was talked about?? Of course leaving private details out *wink*





So, this week has been horrible for me. I have found myself in the deepest homesick depression. I have cried every day and even had a few anxiety attacks. I worked way too much and slep way too little.

All in all, life happened and I let my food addiction take over again. I ate out (thai food, fried food, desserts) way too often and felt terrible and guilty which only has depressed me more.

I know that slip ups happen, and I can't be too hard on myself. But, I feel like if I am having this much of a hard time only 6 weeks into this change, how can I possibly expect to keep it up consistently enough to lose the 170+ lbs I need to lose and then maintain?

*sigh*

Then I have defaulted to the old tricks "well, I have already sabotaged today, might as well keep eating whatever I want and start again tomorrow." Which is silly b/c I know I can "start" whenever I want. Pfftt.

[canmarielan]

Herro all....

Hope all is well with everyone this week :)

I have been having a rough week stayin on top of things.

:overreaction::overreaction:

-Candace

[canmarielan]

Still working to get back on track this week.

I finally got my refills of my medicine. So, my thyroid meds help manage my hunger and my weight loss. :)

I can't wait to get a :schnauzer: or a :junesmiley: because THEN i'll have to take it for walks.....and exercise is JUST what I need*smiles*

Smooches everyone :penguin:
Candace

[PinkieLee]

Still working to get back on track this week.

I finally got my refills of my medicine. So, my thyroid meds help manage my hunger and my weight loss. :)

I can't wait to get a :schnauzer: or a :junesmiley: because THEN i'll have to take it for walks.....and exercise is JUST what I need*smiles*

Smooches everyone :penguin:
Candace

Good morning gorgeous! I'm glad to see that you are starting to have a better week. Sometimes we have those little slips, but I am proud of you for getting back up and taking control back! You WILL continue on this journey of becoming healthy ~ mind, body & spirit!

YAY for getting a puppy, too... that sounds awesome! What better way to get out there and start walking then with a furry companion. Hopefully the weather will start warming up soon, so we can ALL get out there and get some fresh air in our lungs! Nothing like a little sunshine to improve our spirits & put the spring back in our steps!

Well, last week I bit the bullet and joined a gym. We've got a local gym here that has been in business forever it seems. There are a lot of newer, fancier gyms opening up, so to stay in competiton they lowered their prices. We lucked out because they even had a couple's discount! Even better, they have a women's only section... and 99% of the women working out there are NOT "Barbie" and look just like me. So, the intimidation factor got thrown out the window! WOOHOO that makes me hella happy to know that I'm not the only big girl working it out!

I hope that everyone is doing well, and keeping up the great work to become healthy!

Have a fabulous day y'all!

[Gemme]

I threw the ole diet out the window this weekend and I still haven't completely found it yet. I'm slowly getting back into the groove of it, though, and have been making better decisions the past couple of days. I realized that I can't eat a lot of fried foods any more. I :fart: something awful! :blink: So, I guess that's one way to help me eat better. :penguin:

[Diva]

Last weekend was my birthday celebration.....I ate everything I COULD that was bad for me...lol

Burgers....bread.....CAKE....cheese....Mexican food....I was afraid to get on the scale....until today....I got back on my routine on Wednesday, with the exception of yesterday and today ~ I've had NO appetite whatsoever (Don't know what THAT'S about!).

So. Expecting to see a major setback, I did not. I have lost ~ all total ~ 27 lbs! HOW, I do not know! But I'll take it! :D

[Gemme]

Last weekend was my birthday celebration.....I ate everything I COULD that was bad for me...lol

Burgers....bread.....CAKE....cheese....Mexican food....I was afraid to get on the scale....until today....I got back on my routine on Wednesday, with the exception of yesterday and today ~ I've had NO appetite whatsoever (Don't know what THAT'S about!).

So. Expecting to see a major setback, I did not. I have lost ~ all total ~ 27 lbs! HOW, I do not know! But I'll take it! :D

*gasp*

You forgot to say CUPCAKES!!! OhmygoshtheywereSOdamngood! :tongue:

Key lime cupcakes are my favorite now. I shall request them for MY birthday, I think.

I also have let it go since your birthday weekend. :blink:

I was expecting, and saw, a 5 pound difference when I got home. The good news? I think some of it was water weight, because I could NOT have dropped 2-3 pounds in a couple of days eating junk food (which was what I did between weighings).

Eh, the body needs a break once in a while and I'm sure there's no permanent damage done. I do, however, need to figure out HOW I'm going to eat when I get back in the South. I'd managed to go MONTHS without one single fried thing and then managed to have something fried every single day I was down there. It was mondo good though. :thumbsup:

[christie]

Ugh...

Sounds like we have all fallen short on our willpower this last week.

Battling pneumonia, some very difficult situations with work and the impending doom of the big bday next week, well, I have had a carb fest.

That damned Paula Deen and her sweet tea brined buttermilk battered fried chicken. (It was tasty delish, tho)

Worst thing is I physically feel like ass.

I'll get up tomorrow and look for my willpower. It must be in my suitcase... briefcase... knitting bag... :missing:

[Jess]

Ugh...

Sounds like we have all fallen short on our willpower this last week.

Battling pneumonia, some very difficult situations with work and the impending doom of the big bday next week, well, I have had a carb fest.

That damned Paula Deen and her sweet tea brined buttermilk battered fried chicken. (It was tasty delish, tho)

Worst thing is I physically feel like ass.

I'll get up tomorrow and look for my willpower. It must be in my suitcase... briefcase... knitting bag... :missing:

"That damned Paula Dean"... scribbles 100 times on back of recipe card and eats it... It was really awesome hon, thank you ever so much!!!

Looking for low carb red velvet cake for a girls birthday. Is there such a thing?.. Does it count if we eat only salad all week?

I love you with all my heart and have no doubt you will be back on track soon. You got thrown a couple punches this week, love. Let it go and get back to that fierce ass woman! I got your back doll!

Ever yours.

[Diva]

*gasp*

You forgot to say CUPCAKES!!! OhmygoshtheywereSOdamngood! :tongue:

Key lime cupcakes are my favorite now. I shall request them for MY birthday, I think.

I also have let it go since your birthday weekend. :blink:

I was expecting, and saw, a 5 pound difference when I got home. The good news? I think some of it was water weight, because I could NOT have dropped 2-3 pounds in a couple of days eating junk food (which was what I did between weighings).

Eh, the body needs a break once in a while and I'm sure there's no permanent damage done. I do, however, need to figure out HOW I'm going to eat when I get back in the South. I'd managed to go MONTHS without one single fried thing and then managed to have something fried every single day I was down there. It was mondo good though. :thumbsup:



I'm still shaking my head, asking myself, 'How did THAT happen???' It's probably water weight....

Ah yes.....those [damn] cupcakes!! YUMM~O!!!

[Nina]

Last weekend was my birthday celebration.....I ate everything I COULD that was bad for me...lol

Burgers....bread.....CAKE....cheese....Mexican food....I was afraid to get on the scale....until today....I got back on my routine on Wednesday, with the exception of yesterday and today ~ I've had NO appetite whatsoever (Don't know what THAT'S about!).

So. Expecting to see a major setback, I did not. I have lost ~ all total ~ 27 lbs! HOW, I do not know! But I'll take it! :D

I am so proud of you!!...ya know---pretty soon you're gonna start needing some new clothes !!...just sayin' is all...it's good...

changing your body isn't a linear experience...try to remember to offer Yourself the same support, encouragement and acceptance as you give those you care for...

[canmarielan]

Hey everyone :)

Licious I am so proud of you for losing that weight!!!! I know it's not easy....but You can totally do this :)

I am so wrapped up in my new :doghead: tht i haven't been paying much attn to the internet *smiles*

He's cute....and has helped me lose those few pounds I had gained back so I'm back in the 360's. Yes, I am :) Whoottt!!!!

I have rededicated myself (in the most agnostic way.)

I know we can do this together guys :)

Thanks for being there.

[Diva]

Hey everyone :)

Licious I am so proud of you for losing that weight!!!! I know it's not easy....but You can totally do this :)

I am so wrapped up in my new :doghead: tht i haven't been paying much attn to the internet *smiles*

He's cute....and has helped me lose those few pounds I had gained back so I'm back in the 360's. Yes, I am :) Whoottt!!!!

I have rededicated myself (in the most agnostic way.)

I know we can do this together guys :)

Thanks for being there.


That sounded all religious and chit. Were You prostrate on the floor and stuff?

I think that's hawt, Louise.

~ ~ ~ > This is me: :heavyweight: In the year 200NEVER! <giggling>
(Although, now that I think about it, I've been lifting a whole buncha weight already!! How come I don't have muscles from THAT? Huh?)

[Gemme]

Congrats for the new pup!

Everyone, don't forget that TBL is back on tonight now that the Olympics is over.

[amiyesiam]

For Feb 444 minutes of exercise and minus 2 lbs, for a total of 7 in 2 months

[Spirit Dancer]

For Feb 444 minutes of exercise and minus 2 lbs, for a total of 7 in 2 months

WoOt wOoT keep up the good work:)

[canmarielan]

That sounded all religious and chit. Were You prostrate on the floor and stuff?

I think that's hawt, Louise.

~ ~ ~ > This is me: :heavyweight: In the year 200NEVER! <giggling>
(Although, now that I think about it, I've been lifting a whole buncha weight already!! How come I don't have muscles from THAT? Huh?)



swollen prostate??

No....I don't have one of them *wink wink*

Congrats for the new pup!

Everyone, don't forget that TBL is back on tonight now that the Olympics is over.


I am sooooooo excited!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
For Feb 444 minutes of exercise and minus 2 lbs, for a total of 7 in 2 months

Congrats :)

[canmarielan]

Hey everyone.

I suck.

I'm sorry.

I love you!

I have been SOOOOOOOOOO off track these days.

Let's get back on the ball, eh?

[Gemme]

I am 5 months and one week away from packing my car and driving to Austin, with a stop in LR on the way! :clap:

I need to work out more. :blink:

[canmarielan]

I am 5 months and one week away from packing my car and driving to Austin, with a stop in LR on the way! :clap:

I need to work out more. :blink:

Wanna pick me up on the way?

[Gemme]

Wanna pick me up on the way?


Ella will be packed to the brim with stuff...BUT....we could make a caravan! A mini convoy, if you will. Woot!

[Jess]

I don't know if anyone has already posted anything about this, but I heard a blurb on the news about it and thought " Finally! Proof of why some diets fail"

I hear way too often folks trying all sorts of different techniques and feel like they have failed, when we now have proof that genetically, some diets are never going to work for every individual.

This study showed clearly that for some women low fat diets worked whereas for others low carb diets were the right route.

Just thought it good reading and an "aha!" for some folks who have been failed by the wrong nutritional route.

[cinderella]

Hi all. Another 'chubbette' here. I have struggled with weight all my life.

Candace, when I was your age I wore a size 9, and remained at that size 'til my late 30's. I have since then gradually and steadily put on the pounds. I am now 67 years old, and 70 lbs overweight. I certainly don't have the skin elasticity you do, but I believe if I lose the weight gradually/slowly, and go on an exercise program that's suited to my physical capabilities, I can achieve results I can be happy with.

My closet has enough sizes to open up a clothes store! They range from size medium to X1. Currently my slacks size is 18, but I have lost a pound or two within the last few months. I am retired, and don't have any sort of social or active life, so that has got to change as well. I'm hoping that with the good weather that's approaching, I will get out more and start walking.

My best wishes to all of you who are struggling with your weight. Remember, it's not just about 'looking good', it's about your health, and avoiding the pitfalls of excess weight. Good luck, and thank you for starting this thread. I will be a frequent visitor.

p.s. The South Beach Diet is an excellent way to jump start your weight loss program. I went on it several years ago, and lost 30 lbs in 3 months time. Sadly I've gained it all back and then some. The mindset must be: this is not a temporary change of diet - it's a lifetime committment.

[christie]

Just checking in and updating...

The big 4-0 came and went on Saturday and my "goal" when I started my life change back in August was to be the same size I was when I was 17...

I am ONE clothes size away... When I started I was 5 away.

Lost almost 80lbs now. I feel better and am starting to incorporate exercise into my life. Its been a rough go the past couple of weeks with physical illness, but I am back on track and focused.

Hope everyone is doing well, and if not, brush yourself off and remember that you can start again tomorrow.

Best,
Christie

[cinderella]

Good job, Christie!! Good luck, and keep it up - only one dress size to go? Wow, how lucky you are!!! Stick to it, you'll be there in no time!! However, you do know that losing the weight is the 'easy' (?) part - keeping it off, well, that's a whole 'nother challenge!

Just checking in and updating...

The big 4-0 came and went on Saturday and my "goal" when I started my life change back in August was to be the same size I was when I was 17...

I am ONE clothes size away... When I started I was 5 away.

Lost almost 80lbs now. I feel better and am starting to incorporate exercise into my life. Its been a rough go the past couple of weeks with physical illness, but I am back on track and focused.

Hope everyone is doing well, and if not, brush yourself off and remember that you can start again tomorrow.

Best,
Christie

[Liam]

Congratulations Christie, I love to hear about folks reaching their goals, and it sounds as if you will successfully reach yours in less than 12 months.

I picked up Prevention's Flat Belly Diet at the library, yesterday. I don't know if I will do the actual plan, but it was very interesting to read about what causes us to lose that flat belly. Stress is the biggest factor...something to think about!

Just checking in and updating...

The big 4-0 came and went on Saturday and my "goal" when I started my life change back in August was to be the same size I was when I was 17...

I am ONE clothes size away... When I started I was 5 away.

Lost almost 80lbs now. I feel better and am starting to incorporate exercise into my life. Its been a rough go the past couple of weeks with physical illness, but I am back on track and focused.

Hope everyone is doing well, and if not, brush yourself off and remember that you can start again tomorrow.

Best,
Christie

[morningstar55]

i think the best kind of diet is a diet someone can live with for the rest of there life.
maybe if ya'll want too and just a thought......
can post on here what we eat each day and compare , see how its working for us get or give advice... i dont know........ just a idea... i can post what i had so fat since i woke up and you tell me . good or bad in the diet plan.

i woke up around 8 am today ........ normal im up at 5 or 6 .. not sure why i slept so late. lol
anyways...
i had a cup of cereal...
i normaly eat kashi, blueberry /oat flake one
quaker oatmeal squares
or anythng else thats on the healthy side.
i am bad however once in a blue moon will have some
lucky charms.. lol
have a 20 oz coffee
2 half n half creams only
and just made a small sandwhich of light ham fresh from the deli ,1 slice of swiss and about a cup size thing of chips.

[Diavolo]

Just checking in and updating...

The big 4-0 came and went on Saturday and my "goal" when I started my life change back in August was to be the same size I was when I was 17...

I am ONE clothes size away... When I started I was 5 away.

Lost almost 80lbs now. I feel better and am starting to incorporate exercise into my life. Its been a rough go the past couple of weeks with physical illness, but I am back on track and focused.

Hope everyone is doing well, and if not, brush yourself off and remember that you can start again tomorrow.

Best,
Christie

Christie,

Happy Birthday and congratulations! What an accomplishment!

[Gemme]

Did anyone see TBL last night? My cable and internet were down during the show, so the DVR didn't record.

[Diavolo]

Did anyone see TBL last night? My cable and internet were down during the show, so the DVR didn't record.

Here you go!

http://www.nbc.com/the-biggest-loser/video/episodes/#vid=1207318

[Gemme]

Like some others, I've let myself slack off a bit lately. It's to the point that it's annoying me. That's a good thing for me because it means I'm ready to act in my own best interest.

For me, it's like listening (or not) to your GPS. Turn left here....no, I don't WANT to turn left here....I'm going to eat a cookie on the right over here.... :nyahnyah:

After a while, you begin to ignore the GPS (the voice inside, I call it) and you begin to lose that voice in the back of your head that says "Do you REALLY need that right now?" or "Are you hungry or bored or stressed?" or "Wouldn't it be GREAT to get ready and go for a long walk/jog/hike/etc?" If I get to the point where I don't heed it at all, I'll lose it and if I lose it, then I have to start allllllll the way over from the beginning. It's a training process and, though I have a long way to go, I've come a long way.

My motivation is still a bit low right now, but my annoyance factor is rising and I have realized it's time to try and get back on the bandwagon. Why not? It's a wagon; there's a band. Good times!

This coming Monday is the 15th of the month and 5 months from the Reunion. Even though Monday will come a bit earlier (change your clocks forward that Sunday!), I am ready for it. I'm the type of person to need a checkpoint or something that stands out and marks the day and this 5 month marker should work for me.

I have a difficult time getting to the gym on the weekends, especially when I work the midshift (my gym opens later on both days), so it wouldn't be logical to try to begin then. Monday is a day I am more likely going to be able to devote as much time as I need to get started again.

I'm also going to take advantage of the free personal training my Y offers, even though it may result in some wonky scheduling for a while. I've noticed that my arms are getting 'soft' around the elbow area, like my gran's used to be. It's hard to describe here but I see it and make the connection of where it is heading. I don't want to go there, so I'm going to encourage someone to make me sweat, cry, beg and work the Hell out.

Like Candace, putting this out here is a way of creating accountability for myself. In the end, it's my body and my life and I'm the only one who can live in either.

[PinkieLee]

Good morning and happy Monday biggest losers :)

Well, it does appear that some of us are having a hard time getting back on track. The little slip ups or set backs are inevitable sometimes, but it's up to us to snap back!

Gemme... I totally get what you are saying about getting in gear. Having a goal, like the Reunion, is a great way of keeping ourselves motivated to make healthy decisions and motivate ourselves to get it going and keep going. I have all the faith in the world in you, and everyone else here, that we CAN do this. Oh yes we can!

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step"

That is something that I have to keep reminding myself. I know that I didn't put this weight on overnight, and I have to remember that it's not gonna come off overnight either. I am really bad about wanting instant gratification... damn my lack o' patience!

I've been doing pretty good... just monitoring my calories @ about 1600 a day and trying to force down as much water as possible. I work two jobs, so my time at the gym is limited, too. But, I do manage to go on Tuesday, Wednesday and at least one day of the weekend. I thought I was gonna die the first time I got on the eliptical machine (which I have finally worked up to about 10 minutes on). I'm doing about 15 - 20 minutes on the treadmill, then switching to the eliptical and then doing about 30 minutes of weight training.

Two weeks ago, I faced my biggest fear and got on the scale. Kinda like Candace saying that it's good to know where your starting point is. I was disgusted to see the numbers... just knowing that I'm at the highest weight I have ever been in my life.

That right there was motivation enough for me to finally say ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! I refuse to live this way. I love myself unconditionally, but I need to be healthy (heart, mind, soul & BODY).

After one week, I weighed on Friday and had only lost 3 pounds. I seemed a little discouraged, but my boo handed me a pair of my old jeans and told me to put them on (yes, a pair that I couldn't even button 2 weeks prior). Reluctantly, I put them on, and they fit. Ok, they were a little tight, but I got the damn things on!

Even though the scale might not show it, I know that I am losing inches. We started taking our measurements (bust, waist, hips, thigh & arm), and in one month we are gonna do them again and see the progress.

So, let's keep up the good work and remember that we are not alone. We are all on this journey of wellness together!

Have a great day folks!

[Gemme]

Good morning and happy Monday biggest losers :)

Well, it does appear that some of us are having a hard time getting back on track. The little slip ups or set backs are inevitable sometimes, but it's up to us to snap back!

Gemme... I totally get what you are saying about getting in gear. Having a goal, like the Reunion, is a great way of keeping ourselves motivated to make healthy decisions and motivate ourselves to get it going and keep going. I have all the faith in the world in you, and everyone else here, that we CAN do this. Oh yes we can!

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step"

That is something that I have to keep reminding myself. I know that I didn't put this weight on overnight, and I have to remember that it's not gonna come off overnight either. I am really bad about wanting instant gratification... damn my lack o' patience!

I've been doing pretty good... just monitoring my calories @ about 1600 a day and trying to force down as much water as possible. I work two jobs, so my time at the gym is limited, too. But, I do manage to go on Tuesday, Wednesday and at least one day of the weekend. I thought I was gonna die the first time I got on the eliptical machine (which I have finally worked up to about 10 minutes on). I'm doing about 15 - 20 minutes on the treadmill, then switching to the eliptical and then doing about 30 minutes of weight training.

Two weeks ago, I faced my biggest fear and got on the scale. Kinda like Candace saying that it's good to know where your starting point is. I was disgusted to see the numbers... just knowing that I'm at the highest weight I have ever been in my life.

That right there was motivation enough for me to finally say ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! I refuse to live this way. I love myself unconditionally, but I need to be healthy (heart, mind, soul & BODY).

After one week, I weighed on Friday and had only lost 3 pounds. I seemed a little discouraged, but my boo handed me a pair of my old jeans and told me to put them on (yes, a pair that I couldn't even button 2 weeks prior). Reluctantly, I put them on, and they fit. Ok, they were a little tight, but I got the damn things on!

Even though the scale might not show it, I know that I am losing inches. We started taking our measurements (bust, waist, hips, thigh & arm), and in one month we are gonna do them again and see the progress.

So, let's keep up the good work and remember that we are not alone. We are all on this journey of wellness together!

Have a great day folks!

You are right, Pinkie. One step and then another and another...eventually, we'll make it to a place that is lovely for us. I don't believe we'll be "there" as "there" is a continuously changing level but I do believe that all of us can (and WILL) find a place that is good for us, in all the ways that it counts.

As far as losing a particular amount of weight, your boo did the best thing to do....measure yourself against yourself, not some machine. Give your boo a big hug for me for doing that for you.

I weigh 140 pounds. Some of you might wonder why I'm here and why I keep trying to get healthier. Well, for one thing, we should all strive to be healthier as a whole. Some people are built very solid and a lot of their weight is pure muscle. I am no such person. I'm not much over 5 feet tall and I'm pear-shaped, so my arms and shoulders are much smaller than my lower half. For me, it's about losing the jiggle (because I have LOTS of it...and cellulite) and gaining more balance between my top and bottom halves and more balance in general. I'm not the most graceful person either.

On another note, I LOVE the elliptical machines! The Precor 100i is my fave (has the snowshoe looking foot rests). I tend to stick with what I love and so I have to make myself jump on the bikes and treadmills but I'm going to try to learn as much as I can about all the machines at my Y and take as many classes as I can, to mix things up.

I stuck with what I knew today, since it's been almost a full month since I've been to the gym and I didn't want to hurt myself too badly. An hour on my favorite elliptical burned almost 600 calories and gave me a nice 'welcome back' although the first 20 minutes went by so slowly it felt like I was watching paint dry. Thankfully, the ole body figured out what it was supposed to do and got into the groove of things eventually.

I made an appointment to work with a trainer next week for weight training and I signed up for an assessment test too. It's the one from p.e. in middle school....3 minute step test, flexibility, etc. I know my results won't be stellar but it will give me a good starting point to monitor my success.

Note: I said success and not progress.

[FR]

hi peeps-now most of u know i dont post much but i felt like i could here. and i may be repeating info already here so please excuse i just cant read thru everything. some of u know me i am a short fat butch and have been that most of my life. a few years ago i fell and it turned my life for the worse. i have arthritis is both knees and a few other spot as well as other things. but most important was(is) my weight. i was very heavy and hbp, etc. now it took me a long time and i still cant do what i would like to but i did lose weight. took me about a year and half to lost almost 100 pounds.
i have gained a bit back and am still 10 pounds from what i call my first goal weight.
what i am doing and has been working for me is just making small changes in diet-- like looking at the ingrediants-i check sugar,fat and fiber content especially. i got more fiber in diet and multi grain or whole grains. supplemented where i needed to with vitamins -doing what i can a piece at a time.
now i know i will never be skinny and i wish it could be faster but i have to believe i am a work in progress. i am frustrated with doctors and have quit them for the most part. i prob need some help for a medication but i am reading up on naturak ways to help myself because i feel that is a better way to go. it is harder when u live by yourself and dont really like to cook for one. what i am saying is i support whatever way works for u. u can listen to advice and interpret that for urself. i commend all those in this thread-thanks for letting me spout off and rememeber the rabbit didnt win that race-the slow but sure old tortoise did.

[PinkieLee]

Good morning and another happy Monday biggest losers! I hope that everyone had a nice weekend and is back and at em' today!

Welcome FR! You are right my friend, the rabbit didn't win the race. None of us put this weight on overnight, and we shouldn't have some outlandish expectations on it coming off quickly. Good for you for making small changes first. I know for me, when I looked at the big picture, I felt overwelmed. How in the world was I gonna lose 100 pounds?! So, I started setting small step goals (15 pound increments and/or clothing sizes). Whatever it takes to get you going and keep the positive energy flowing is a plus. So, come back often and update us on your progress ~ we are all together on this journey.

It seems as though we are all super busy right now living life... it happens. I just wanted to let you all know how proud I am of you all for making healthy decisions for yourselves. I know I may sound like a broken record of positive thinking... but I am a firm believer that positive thinking brings about positive change!

Well, I went to the dr on Friday for my weekly weigh in... and I lost 5 pounds last week. That brings my total for 2 weeks to 8 pounds. I know, it might not seem like alot, but right now it's helping me remind myself that YES, I can do this.

When my ex and I were together, we lost quite a bit of weight together. I think that it was in the beginning, and I had lost about 15 pounds. I was whining that it didn't seem like much. We were in the grocery store in the produce section and she had me a 5 pound sack of potatoes, then another and another. She said, THAT'S how much weight that you aren't carrying around anymore. It was a great way for me to see the change, in those smaller increments.

Well anyway, I hope that everyone has a great week, and that healthy eating & exercising are going strong. Take care of yourselves my friends!!

[Melissa]

Hello all....I've been reading the thread since it started and so I'm jumping in because I need motivation to lose my last 15 pounds. I've stalled out the last few months. On the positve side I haven't gained any back but I feel stuck. I've lost 23lbs over the last year or so plus I had a breast reduction about a year ago which has made me feel a lot better in so many ways.

Good luck to all and wish me luck too

Melissa

[Mrs. Strutt]

What a great thread, with lots of inspiring stories!

After some on-again, off-again yo-yo dieting over the past five years when I gained 80 lbs. having my daughter, I'm up to a 50 lb. weight loss. I have another 30 to lose to get to where I was when I got pregnant, and then probably another 20 on top of that to get down to a healthy weight for my height and frame.

After a lot of time and tears spent on wondering why I kept "failing" on diets, I decided to sit down and really think about the whole process. Over the past year, I've come to the following conclusions and I hope they might be helpful for someone else.

1. "Diets" always fail. It's lifestyle changes that win in the end.
I do not have a count, weight and measure personality. I can follow a prescribed program for a period of time, such as Weight Watches or Body For Life, but I will never be able to sustain that type of program over the long haul. So I figured out how I thought I could eat for the rest of my life and came up with a weight loss plan that is just a portion-restricted version of how I will always eat from now on...what I know I can live with forever.

What I came up with was this: each meal I eat consists of 1/3 protein, 1/3 "slow" carbs (such as low-sugar fruits and green vegetables, and 1/3 "fast" carbs (such as whole grains, pastas and breads). I eat three meals a day, plus two snacks, and I do not limit any type of foods...I eat whatever I want, I just make sure they are in those proportions and in modest portions. The proteins and "slow" carbs minimize the effects of the "fast" carbs, even if they are sweets or pasta, and I have averaged a 1-2 lb. weight loss each week this way. And I don't feel one bit deprived since nothing is "off limits".

2. There is no escaping the importance of exercise in weight loss, so I exercise for at least 10 minutes every day.
I like weights and cardio, but I'm really busy and I don't always have time for those...yet I know how important exercise is. I have recently gotten into yoga and the DVDs I have contain routines that range anywhere from 10 to 60 minutes. Even 10-15 minutes of yoga is pretty damned effective and has given me some great muscle definition and flexibility, plus it helps me to burn more calories.

3. I refuse to beat myself up for "falling off the wagon".
One stressful day, I grabbed one of Mr. Strutt's Moon pies and ate it, then spent 10 minutes beating myself up about what a failure I was. And then I decided that was ridiculous and forced myself to put my "failure" into perspective. It takes 3,000 calories to gain a pound and that damned Moon pie was 130 calories. Oh freaking well, huh? So it wasn't the best choice, but why should I negate a 95% success rate over the rest of my week because I made one slip? Acknowledge a not-so-great choice and then just move on!

4. No more "event-driven" weight loss goals, ever.
Stories from my friends and experiences of my own have convinced me that the best way to fail is to concoct an "event-driven" weight loss goal...like, cousin Suzy is getting married in six months so I have to chuck 50 lbs. so I can dazzle everyone at the wedding. Every single time I set a weight loss goal based on a future event, I am miserable...the pressure to "succeed" leads to unrealistic expectations and there is no way I ever make it. Once I learned to let go of goals and pressures and just focus on getting healthy, one week at a time, with no set deadline, I can't tell you how much more relaxed and happy I became with the process. And how much more successful I've become as well.

And yep, I have days where the "one slip" becomes a bit more than a 130-calorie Moon pie (those enchiladas verdes at Carmelita's, damn it), but overall, it has worked for me :)

You all rock...thanks for the additional inspiration!

[Gemme]

Tomorrow is my evaluation and I'm stoked about it. I had a great workout today and will get a lot of sleep tonight since my appointment's not first thing in the morning. I'm thinking kick ass thoughts. Anyone can do anything for a few minutes, right? :thumbsup:

The past two days have been challenging in many regards. I live in a small military town and we had over 5000 sailors descend on us for the weekend. The ship pulls out tomorrow, so today is not as frantic as the last two have been. I worked from 6:45am-almost 8pm last night. A lot of folks might be used to that but I have some seriously tired feet!

So, I stopped at the grocery store and indulged my inner child accidentally. I wasn't there to do so but it kind of wound up happening. *sheepish grin*

I've been denying her GS Samoas for a long time ($4 a box! Tons 'o calories/fat!) and last night, she saw that Dreyers had a GS Samoas ice cream......and it was on sale. That pleased the adult in me. Soooo....I had ice cream last night and it was NOT low calorie/carb/anything but it WAS high in taste and I felt like I got a reward for couple of rough days. I still have NO idea how they think that a half or quarter cup is a serving. :blink:

[imperfect_cupcake]

I was so healthy when I got back from Indonesia and malaysia. I had lost a ton of wieght, I was lightly tanned, rested, well exersized, detoxed from the all day sweating in equitorial heat while running around through temples and waterfall hikes and snorkling for three hours at a time. I didn't diet. I just ate local food, not the westrn tourist food.

I had the glossiest thickest hair, clearest skin, sparkly eyes and my clothes at home were too big.

after two months of being back, eating western food again, and city living... I went back to feeling like sh*t and my clothes being tight.

So, I decided that I was going to try and cut out the same things that weren't in the south east asian diet. funny enough, those things were cut out of my diet many years ago when I went to a naturopath to help me with my depression and wieght and low energy etc etc. I know I have "sensativites" to these things. I also cycle to work and back, which equals about an hour of strong-moderate exercise. about 15 Km per day ( that's 1.6 km to the mile for the old measurements).

my work mate at the new job told me she was training to be a naturopath (super knowledgable dietician that will try and address health problems by fine tuning your diet)
She also told me if I wanted, one of canada's best naturopath's was doing teaching seminars at her college and if I wanted to be a teaching subject it would only cost me £20 (naturopathy is not covered by the NHS here... ). I said yes, for sure!

so I got a three hour consult.

been following very carefully. No dairy, no wheat, no sweetners (my liver is bad enough), no fizzy water or drinks (kidneys aren't the best), a cup of hot water and lemon first thing in the morning to clean me out, a cup of detox tea with my breckfast when I get to work (plain organic puffed rice, soy yogurt, blueberries, tablespoon of agave syrup or date syrup). Lunch is yam noodles, shredded leafy greens (cabbage, kale, spinach) and white fish in a nice hot spicy malay broth. dinner... varies.

but it's usually good.

I've gained 1.5 kilos (2.2 pounds to a kilogram). However I can fit back into my skinny pencil skirt with room to spare. What I want is more energy, better skin (the glowy kind like I had), less health problems, being kind to the organs I abuse or that don't function all that well to begin with and it would be very nice to fit back into a size 16UK like I did a couple summers ago. It makes it so much easier to buy clothes. I hate the fat girl clothes I have to buy cause it's mainstream crap that isn't me. I HATE wearing mainstream shit that doesn't reflect who I am.

I'm never fit into the stuff I want to buy in Camden Market (you have to be a 14 year old bulimic) but I would at least like to walk into some of the alternative shops in brighton and be able to squeeze into their largest size.

Plus less wieght does make walking in super high shoes much easier and less painful.

It's a huge lifestyle change, but one I'm much happier in. Not eating milk and bread in western cultures is irritatingly difficult sometimes. Our diet is based around it.

I buy myself little treats every week for helping change my diet drastically. it's also nice to be able to have the energy to work all day, cycle home, and do an hour of house work. THEN colapse. It's a huge change from struggling through work, tube then bus then lay on the bed, exhausted.

[canmarielan]

Single and Unemployed.

I suppose it's easy for me to use these things as an excuse. I'm pretty sure I've gained at least 10 lbs back from what I had lost.

It's difficult, because I know what has to be done. I shouldn't punish myself for back sliding we all do it.....but so soon in the game?? Only 3 months into it?

Not good enough, Candace.

Pick your head up, quit being lazy, and get back on track.

Yepp that's it.

Today April 3rd 2010 is my restarting point.

Balls to the wall, I'm doing this shit.

Seriously, and I know I keep sayin this. I keep trying to convince myself to get off my ass and do it, but I NEED to do it.

Now that I am pretty sure I won't be moving back to Texas until later in the year, I have something to motivate me. I want to lose the weight so that when I move home I can be a whole new person. I can truelly start my life over and begin again a happier healthier me.

Can I do this?

yes, with everyone's support I can.


I HAVE TO DO THIS AND SO DO YOU!!!!!!!!!!!

So, ladies and gents and genderfucks.......let's DO THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!

Who's with me???

[Liam]

Who's with me???

I'm with you, Candace!

[amiyesiam]

for March 0 lost, 0 gained. 335 minutes of exercise. I really started slacking off the end of the month. New month new start. And Candace, been waiting on ya, knew you would be back!!!!!!!!!!

oh and we stopped drinking pop 9 days ago.

[Gemme]

I've slacked off a bit too but have held steady with the weight, thankfully. I need to tone, tone, tone!

On a 'gee, thanks for bringing this though you KNOW I'm trying to cut down on sweets' note, my coworker brought those super sweet candy eggs (not Cadbury or any of the chocolate ones....the pure candy ones).

*sigh*

*munch*

I love these.

[Liam]

I am finally at a level of health, where I can acutally start my new healthy lifestyle, and I am very excited. I have had months to explore diets, learn about how the metabolism works, and check out low impact exercises. I have chosen Prevention magazine's The Flat Belly Diet, because it doesn't require purchasing a bunch of food that isn't in my pantry, and with all of my food allergies, substitutions are easy to do. The gist of this diet is 1,600 calories a day—four meals, each 400 calories, never go more than four hours with eating, and a MUFA (mono unsaturated fatty acid)with each meal. MUFAs are avacados, oils (canola, safflower, flaxseed, olive, soybean, sunflower, walnut and peanut,) olives, nuts and seeds and my personal favourite—dark chocolate. I started eating MUFA snacks two weeks ago, and already I can tell that my fat belly has decreased.

I purchased a bodyblade for exercise, and I am amazed at how this one and half pound strip of carbon can develop muscle quickly. I used to use free weights and this seriously gives them some competition. Its perfect for those who require a low-impact method of exercise and/or find themselves bedridden or in a wheel-chair. Its simple, doesn't take up a lot of room, and I'm impressed. Check it out at www.bodyblade.com

[Diavolo]

Single and Unemployed.

I suppose it's easy for me to use these things as an excuse. I'm pretty sure I've gained at least 10 lbs back from what I had lost.

It's difficult, because I know what has to be done. I shouldn't punish myself for back sliding we all do it.....but so soon in the game?? Only 3 months into it?

Not good enough, Candace.

Pick your head up, quit being lazy, and get back on track.

Yepp that's it.

Today April 3rd 2010 is my restarting point.

Balls to the wall, I'm doing this shit.

Seriously, and I know I keep sayin this. I keep trying to convince myself to get off my ass and do it, but I NEED to do it.

Now that I am pretty sure I won't be moving back to Texas until later in the year, I have something to motivate me. I want to lose the weight so that when I move home I can be a whole new person. I can truelly start my life over and begin again a happier healthier me.

Can I do this?

yes, with everyone's support I can.


I HAVE TO DO THIS AND SO DO YOU!!!!!!!!!!!

So, ladies and gents and genderfucks.......let's DO THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!

Who's with me???


One thing I'd like to share that we work on with my Body for Life group...it's starting over. Or re-starts. You're not really starting over, you're just picking up where you left off. It's a life change you're doing and that takes time. So you stumbled a little? So fucking what? Dust yourself off and keep moving forward. You'll get there. Although once you move it'll be all three of the trifecta of major life changes - relationship, work and home. I did that back in 1998. Never looked back. It's not going to be perfect, just work on being better today than you were yesterday.

[FR]

--ok i know what some may think--but as far as im concerned jillian michaels needs a pointy stick up her butt.


:groucho:

[FR]

say has anyone ever tried that master cleanse drink? and if so are u in the john all night or what? ty

[canmarielan]

haven't cleansed....thought about trying it though...if y'all try it let me know how it goes *wink*

So, I have been doing okay. Keeping my head up...making the changes I know are necessary. I haven't been sticking perfectly to low-cal stuff.....But, I am doing much better than I had been for those few weeks....

This evening I made sausage/cabbage soup.

Ingredients:

Cabbage
Turkey Sausage
A few red potatoes
Red Kidney Beans
Black Beans
1 can Rotel
1 Red Onion
Lots of Garlic and Chili Powder


Yummy McYummerson. Only The Potatoes have high calories and mixed all together it's a great source of Protein and Good Carbs.

*smiles*

Hope everyong is doing well. I'm going to weigh in on Monday and see where I stand.

It's been a few weeks since I've weighed :worried:

[Gemme]

say has anyone ever tried that master cleanse drink? and if so are u in the john all night or what? ty

I can imagine it would work like a laxative and yes, there would be some bathroom time, but products nowadays are usually geared to work overnight and so you should be done later in the morning, I'd think.

haven't cleansed....thought about trying it though...if y'all try it let me know how it goes *wink*

So, I have been doing okay. Keeping my head up...making the changes I know are necessary. I haven't been sticking perfectly to low-cal stuff.....But, I am doing much better than I had been for those few weeks....

This evening I made sausage/cabbage soup.

Ingredients:

Cabbage
Turkey Sausage
A few red potatoes
Red Kidney Beans
Black Beans
1 can Rotel
1 Red Onion
Lots of Garlic and Chili Powder


Yummy McYummerson. Only The Potatoes have high calories and mixed all together it's a great source of Protein and Good Carbs.

*smiles*

Hope everyong is doing well. I'm going to weigh in on Monday and see where I stand.

It's been a few weeks since I've weighed :worried:

You can help to change the glycemic index of the potatoes if you find a way to get some apple cider vinegar in your recipe. It sounds yummy though.

[canmarielan]

Hello everyone :)

How are y'all doing??

I"m just sitting here with this nasty ass head cold!!! I wanna die.

Otherwise, I'm okay. I mean.....I'm not doing great. I keep putting it off....like....I'll do this tomorrow, I'll get started again. I mean, I'm not doing terribly.....

Keepin my head up *smilies*

[canmarielan]

Today marks 70 days until the first day of the reunion.

I have a proposal.

Everyone who would like to participate pledges the amount of weight they will lose by Monday August 16, 2010. (You may participate even if you don't plan to attend the reunion.) That is 66 days people!! On that date we will all weigh in, (taking a picture showing you on the scale on the date of you making your pledge and you on the scale on Aug 16, use a newspaper or something similar and emailing to me.) The winner will be the person who gets closest to losing the amount they pledged. If you surpass that amt, then it will be they person who is the farthest beyond their pledge.

(Ie if person a pledges 25 lbs and looses 30 and person b pledges 30 lbs and looses 32 person a wins even though person b lost more)

Lets play fair and pick reasonable goals! Don't gotta lotta weight to lose? Np! That's why I'm wanting pledges you can pledge 5-10-20-50 lbs whatever is,reasonable for you!

The winner shall receive a cd made by me with ideal exercise music, a cookbook made by me with a ton of low cal low fat recipes I've tried and/or invented. And a tshirt made by me proclaiming their victory as the bfp biggest loser challenge winner!!


So, who's in?


I'll start with my pledge.

My name is Candace and today I weigh 379 lbs. I pledge to lose 35 lbs by August 16, 2010.

Obviously I can't win, but imma be bustin my ass, believe that!

you do not have to pledge publicly and the winner can remain anonymous to everyone but me if you'd like. You may post your pledge here or in my pm box!

Edited to add: please make sure to check with your doctor before starting any weight loss program

Also, I'd like another persons assistance with determining the winner in Aug, send me a pm if interested in helping. *smiles*

[Arwen]

Sweetie, I won't join the pledge but I will pledge to support you all and be your biggest :cheerleader:

[canmarielan]

So...I've been working a lot, been checking in every day.

No one wanna pledge?
I'll keep checking in and if no one pledges by this weekend I'll call it off.

I am really excited to do this with y'all! !!!

[Gemme]

I'm having to rework my financials in order to have funds for my move and the reunion, so I've cut out some 'fat' in my budget. The irony is that part of the fat of the budget is my Y membership. So, as of today, I'm on my own as far as working out and getting healthier.

Pray for me. :blink: