quote:

---

Originally posted by Fat Cramer:


There's an old P.G. Wodehouse story about a rich, fat uncle who has to go to a spa to slim down. His nephew, who hopes to inherit, goes along and reads cookbook recipes to him every night to console him.

---

Ah, a fellow Plum fan! I knew I liked you FC!!
 

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Posted by Ger on :
 
I've gained a little bit also. My problem is not eating all day then having 1 large meal at the end of the day. I know its dumb, but...

Hmmm... I've heard that there's some very enjoyable activity that burns tons of calories but I can't think of what it is at the moment.
 

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Posted by the boy with UltraPowers on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Bubble Wrap Boy:
Good luck and should yo have any running questions, feel free to ask.

Victor

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Sonnie Bloke:
A good tip I was given is to drink water when you feel hungery outside of usual mealtimes rather indulging in snacks.... it's tough for a wee while but it does help...

---

i agree with this tip !!! i drink up to 2 litres of water a day and it does help with hunger periods during the day ...

Matthew.
 

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Posted by Bubble Wrap Boy on :
 
Yes Matthew...

the running will be good for you, but ease into the program, don't bite off too much too soon. 2 keys things.

1. always hydrate... not only will it keep you healthy but it'll help with recovery.

2. if you're running on consecutive days, be sure never to run 2 hard days in a row. Your body will need tome to recover after a hard workout, running the following day is good because it'll help shed any accumulated lactate acid (which is what you're feeling when you're feeling sore the next day), but if you're gonna run the next day, be sure to make it a slow, easy run, your muscles are a bit worn so you want to ease them back into the exercise w/o exacerbating them, otherwise it'll make you more prone to injury.

Most importantly, you don't need to exercise to exhaustion, it can be at a nice leisurely pace, the idea is to get your heart pumping at a good clip for 30 seconds, but you don't want it to get to the point where you're so beat that you end up dreading the following workout.

Also if you're running for time instead of distance, once you start doing it for a significant amount of time, you'll begin to realize that you'll be going farther in those 50 minutes than you had when you began the program, that's because you're body has become accustomed to the strain, so you are running at a faster rate, and thus covering more ground.

see what you started?! lol

Also keep in mind, the more you exercise the likelier your appetite will grow, think of your body as a furnace suddenly needing more fuel. But the difference is that the fuel is now being diverted to your muscles which are now in need of them.

[ January 16, 2004, 04:49 PM: Message edited by: Bubble Wrap Boy ]
 

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Posted by the boy with UltraPowers on :
 
thanks for the info BWB !!!

i always forget to check, how many laps i've done in that time !!!

i must make a note next time ....

Matthew.
 

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Posted by Portfolio Boy on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by MLLASH:
Weighed one pound less today than yesterday-- a good sign.

---

Based on my experiences, I would caution against wieghing yourself everyday. You are either setting youself up for failure, when you don't lose weight every day and get discourages, or begging for a case on anarexia, should you try to actually lose a pount every day.

Now, recall that the extra weight did not come on all at once, it's not going to go off all at once either. Trying to shed too many pounds at once actually sends your body into a kind of shock.

I would recommend only weighing yourself once a week. They say a two pounds a week is a healthy way to take off the weight.

Now, having said that, I'm right there with you. I currently dress out at 285+ and desperatly need to take of some of the tonage. The wife is scared to death that I am going to drop dead of a heart attack come my next fire call. And truth to tell, I'm not so sure myself that I won't.

So, how about a weekly Legion World weigh-in? And then durin the week we can all chat it up for strategies & support.

Ce bon?
 

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Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
Another tip, from a life long dieter (and pretty successful, but I gotta keep at it) - never, never keep junk food in the house. You'll probably eat it when you're tired or hungry. And if you get something like a cake or ice cream for guests, send it home with them or throw it out.

Also, if you're exercising, you build muscle which weighs more than fat. So you may gain pounds but your clothes will fit a whole lot better.

I run 1/2 hour every other day and lift hand-held weights the other days. Only skip for extreme circumstances, like this really cold weather. My knee blew out last year and I was off the routine for about 4 months and did I gain pounds! It's amazing what a small amount of regular exercise can do.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Thanks so much for all the info guys & gals!

Where weight is concerned I'm probably a little messed up in the head.

Weight has been a life-long struggle with me, especially after I "came out".

The gay lifestyle, being the vain, ridiculous thing it is (at least in my experience) doesn't really allow for a guy to be even a little pudgy. The sad truth is, I'm not able to pull off being even a little overweight. Having my lover of 5 years break up with me in 1996 after I reached the most I'd ever weighed in my life (220 pounds) didn't help, I suppose.

Right now, I'm slightly over 5'10 and when I freaked out about my weight I weighed 204 pounds.

This morning I weighed 197 pounds, so the battle is working thus far. It'll be won when I'm back down to 175 and fighting the guys off who wouldn't look twice at me now.

Excercise works really great for me-- I can do treadmill walking and situps daily and tell a huge difference almost right away-- but I never stick with it. *sigh!*

Anyhoo, since I'm being all serious about taking this weight off-- especially with a planned meeting with Ger coming up-- I figured I'd go public. It kinda helps to discuss it....

Personally, I prefer a guy with a little meat on his bones...
 

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Posted by Bubble Wrap Boy on :
 
"Excercise works really great for me-- I can do treadmill walking and situps daily and tell a huge difference almost right away-- but I never stick with it. *sigh!*"

well stick with it dammit!!!

one thing thatmost people don't realize is that when you start exercising, your appetite will increase (my furnace analogy)... this is ok. The problem occurs when you stop exercising but are still trying to "maintain" a diet. Your body has become accustomed to the aereobic outlet for burning calories, so the cravings for the needed calories will remain, but the outlet is removed, that's when you get into trouble and you get those awful weight rebounds.

Stick with it Lash, diet AND exercise, they need to go hand and hand! (And if you had to get rid of one, diet is the one you should be tossing, not the exercising, even a little extra weight would be fine because you'll be teaching your body how to mold it)

[ January 17, 2004, 05:45 AM: Message edited by: Bubble Wrap Boy ]
 

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Posted by Portfolio Boy on :
 
For those thinking about dieting, I recommend this site as a permenant cure for the urge!

Check it out, especially if you are over thirty.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
My weight also fluctuates up and down thirty pounds constantly, so I go from 190 to 220 all the time. I'm 6' 0'', so it's not too bad, but I hate when I start to lose my tone. Right now, I'm just coming down from a period of being a bit fatty and starting to tone up again. Being a bouncer at a bar kind of pushes me in this direction, otherwise I'd lose my confidence at work.

I mainly do a lot of weight-lifting, especially my shoulders and arms, which helps you feel and looks slim.

Don't work your chest if your lifting weights, it will only make your chest bigger and then you'll feel fatter. Instead, do five sets of ten push-ups instead of chest workouts, and you're upper chest will get a nice toned-chissled look.

I try to run about three times a week, although I usually only do it about twice. The only fatty part of my body that is impossible to get rid of is right around my lower abs, although this is definately do to my inability to diet and my insatiable lust for lots of beer at least two to three times a week.

Hopefully, it about a month to two months time, I'll be back to the shape I'm comfortable with. After playing hockey for twelve years, college was a bit of a shock since I didn't have a constant outlet for working out, and my traditionally toned body starting to soften up. Since then, the only thing I can do is lift weights to make certain areas more muscular, run to trim my midsection and then diet four out of the seven days a week (weekends are too hard for this young man ).
 

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Posted by Harbinger on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Portfolio Boy:
For those thinking about dieting, I recommend this site as a permenant cure for the urge!

Check it out, especially if you are over thirty.

---

What a fantastic site!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
196 pounds this A.M!
 

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Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
Tonight at The Beacon, Chilled Celery Logs with Fluffy Mackerel Pudding! Menu suggestions courtesy of Duke's link....
 

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Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
I'm currently at 192.5 lbs.

I ran on an indoor track this morning for about 30 minutes.
 

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Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
Lesson of the day: When you find yourself wondering, "Why'd they have to put the track way up on the fifth floor?", you know haven't been doing this enough lately.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
GO, Eryk GO!!!! Congrats, man!

I just had a salad, and that's all I'll eat today (except for a small bowl of rasin bran cereal later-- it's loaded with fiber!)
 

---

Posted by Invisible Brainiac on :
 
Good luck to all of you guys! You can do it, yeah!
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
If there were a way to workout while posting on LegionWorld, we'd all be buff! (maybe a Thigh Master...)

Keep it up Lash! We're all behind ya -- work it baby!!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
No fear, Drakey... this weight is HISTORY baby!! And I'll spam this website with the photos to prove it when the time arrives!

Some progress noted this evening: Had not one but TWO drinks purchased for me by an anonymous gentleman (which is quite a feat here-- the broke-ass cads in Memphis NEVER do that!!) and was asked if I was a hairdresser (gay speak for "I like your hair!" No matter my weight, I've always had good hair!)

Can't wait to see what happens 20 pounds from now...!

Forgot to eat my bowl of cereal... drank a glass of 2% milk instead...
 

---

Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by MLLASH:
Some progress noted this evening: Had not one but TWO drinks purchased for me by an anonymous gentleman (which is quite a feat here-- the broke-ass cads in Memphis NEVER do that!!) and was asked if I was a hairdresser (gay speak for "I like your hair!" No matter my weight, I've always had good hair!)

Can't wait to see what happens 20 pounds from now...!

---

Cripes, you'll have to hire bodyguards to beat off all the admirers!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Well, the sad truth is, I get more attention the smaller I am.

Or maybe it's the ridiculous vintage outfits I can wear when I'm smaller. Whatever works.
 

---

Posted by DrakeB3003 on :
 
Good goin' Lash -- Just be careful how many drinks you let guys buy you at the bar -- those things have calories!

You're actually inspiring me to hit the gym right now (well, or to the bar at least ... )!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Go for it, Drakey! We can encourage each other!!

Weighed in at 195 this morning-- another pound lost. This means I have exactly 20 to go.

Once my mind is made up, I'm a rock. That 20 pounds is SoooOOOOOoooo history!!

I actually think keeping a record of this online is making it easier...
 

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Posted by the boy with UltraPowers on :
 
hey !!

good going LASH !! i think it's great that we can all inspire each other !!

i went to the gym today, i ran for 35 minutes and then did 4 reps of 15 on the "preacher curl" [ for my biceps ] and 4 reps of 15 "press-ups" !!!

Matthew.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Pump it UP, Ultra-Mattie! Good going there!
 

---

Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
OK, I'm in on this too now! Lash, you've inspired me. If I can lose twenty pounds, I'll be back to the condition I was in when I was an athlete!

Starting tonight, I've eaten nothing since dinner, and hereby swear off late-night snacks. Tomorrow, I'm going for some healthy eating and working out!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
YAY, Cobie!!!

We can do this!!!!
 

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Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
This morning's weight: 189 lbs.
 

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Posted by STU on :
 
I've been under the weather recently, and haven't had much of an appetite. Consequently, I've been subsisting on cold cereal and soup for the last two or three days.

Surprisingly, I haven't lost any weight. I guess I haven't been as active either, so I haven't been burning off my caloric intake to a greater degree than I would be normally.

Once I feel back up to speed, I'll try to get back into exercise mode...
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Don't worry Stu, it's no use trying to diet or work out while being sick, you might as well try and get healthy first!

Today: nothing to eat all but a quick Nutri-grain bar for breakfast. Five glasses of water so far (I plan for eight), and did a steady workout of weigh-lifting and running.

On to a nice dinner, and then I have to watch myself to keep the no late-night snack pact going.

Hope everyone else is hanging in there! Posting to this thread makes it a bit easier...
 

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Posted by STU on :
 
My early dinner tonight: a big bowl of split pea soup with smoked ham, and some potato chips. Apparently my appetite is coming back...

[ January 19, 2004, 03:50 PM: Message edited by: STU ]
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Eryk, that's GREAT!!! Do you have a goal weight in mind?

Cobie, sounds like you're going after it FULL-force! You GO boy!!

Stu, wiith your height, what is your ideal weight? (for those not in the know, Stu's pretty tall... about 6'2, right, Stuey...?)

I didn't weight today although my personal preference is to weigh daily. I'll see what it says tomorrow.
 

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Posted by STU on :
 
You got it! I'm about 6'2"... and, like Des, my weight fluctuates between 190 and 220. A while back, when I had a work-out buddy, I was at 190 and toned.

I haven't worked out regularly for a while now, and I'm currently at about 207 and not-so-toned. My goal is to be at 190 and semi-toned in two months...
 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 

 

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Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
LOL!! I saw an ad in the paper for a "low-carb" beer from Labatt's - big market for the low carb diets! It's still empty calories - no nutrition in beer.
 

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Posted by the boy with UltraPowers on :
 
i'm at the gym tomorrow after work for my "RPM" class !!!

and i plan on going on Thursday and Friday also ....

Matthew.
 

---

Posted by STU on :
 
I must be getting over my cold/flu/etc. -- my appetite's almost completely returned.

To indulge, I just had a nice plate of Hostess Ho Ho's and Oreos...
 

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Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
Maybe you should stick to bananas now, STU.
 

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Posted by STU on :
 
"Yes, we have no bananas! We have no bananas today."

(Because I ate 'em all. )
 

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Posted by STU on :
 
How are everyone's diets going?

I just weighed myself and I'm suddenly down to 203 -- all the weight I was losing over the last couple of days while I've had this cold seemed to have just disappeared all at once.

The key is to not gain it back now that I've regained my appetite...
 

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Posted by Ger on :
 
I applaud everyone. You go guys.

I can sympathize. I have to be conscious about what I eat AND work out regularly. I could stand to shed a few pounds. I'll step up the work-outs a little for my impending visit with Lash. A boy has to look his best.
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I just posted my fitness/wellness update at the BEEF thread, but I'm so glad to find this one! Good job to all of you who are putting in the effort to feel and look good! The thing I've come to understand about this is that it isn't really about getting your weight down to a certain number, it's about getting your body in the shape you want. For me, my goal is to burn off as much fat as possible, to look "slim" in clothes. Then, when I'm feeling good, I'll consider doing more toning, maybe even bulking up the biceps and pecs. I'm 5'10" and weigh about 195. My thinnest was around 155 lbs around 11 years ago. If I put on muscle, I don't think I'll be weighing much less than I do now.

I go to the gym and do 30 minutes on the treadmill. I walk first, to warm up, then I run at a comfortable pace, then I push myself, then I go back to the comfortable pace, then I finish by walking again. Headphones with music are MANDATORY, IMO!!! Then I use the Nautilus weight machines, comfortable weight, two sets of 12. The thing I've done in the past is use too much weight, hoping to quickly bulk, but all that's done is make me HURT, so I quit doing it. This time, slow and steady... Then, I stretch.

I've taken major control over food. I know what junk has to be avoided, so... I avoid it! It's actually easy to do once you tell yourself. I prepare pretty good food at home, so my focus now is on portion control. I don't eat the kids' left overs anymore, despite how delicious they are.

I think this time around, I'm more ready than ever to get all the way to the results I want. I'm 37 and I absolutely, positively DO NOT want to have a mental (or physical) breakdown when I get to 40.
 

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Posted by the boy with UltraPowers on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by the boy with UltraPowers:
i'm at the gym tomorrow after work for my "RPM" class !!!

and i plan on going on Thursday and Friday also ....

Matthew.

---

i did my "RPM" class last night [ one hour on the bike !!! ]

and then i went today also !!! 40 minutes running then sit-ups and press-ups !!!

Matthew.
 

---

Posted by STU on :
 
Sigh... today's diet distracters: Chip's Ahoy Cremewiches (two Chips Ahoy cookies with Oreo-like "creme" in between), and Junior Mints...
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I've stalled out at 195 for the nonce... will get serious about dieting again Tuesday...
 

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Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
Some inspiration to keep us away from the fast food(and they don't even mention how expensive it is):

Last February, Morgan Spurlock decided to become a gastronomical guinea pig.

His mission: To eat three meals a day for 30 days at McDonald's and document the impact on his health.

Scores of cheeseburgers, hundreds of fries and dozens of chocolate shakes later, the formerly strapping 6-foot-2 New Yorker - who started out at a healthy 185 pounds -had packed on 25 pounds.

But his supersized shape was the least of his problems.

Within a few days of beginning his drive-through diet, Spurlock, 33, was vomiting out the window of
his car, and doctors who examined him were shocked at how rapidly Spurlock's entire body deteriorated.

"It was really crazy - my body basically fell apart over the course of 30 days," Spurlock told The Post.

His liver became toxic, his cholesterol shot up from a low 165 to 230, his libido flagged and he suffered
headaches and depression.

[URL=http://www.nypost.com/entertainment/16393.htm ]full article at New York Post[/URL]
 

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Posted by STU on :
 
Yikes! I guess he wasn't "lovin' it."

Someone call Justin Timberlake pronto and tell him the truth!
 

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Posted by Povvin the Martian on :
 
Gah!

Two well-meaning fellow employees brought stuff in this morning-- one brought a pastry sheet and the other brought donuts from Dunkin' D.

Where's my self-control when I need it?!
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I just bought a very informative and helpful magazine, a special edition from Muscle and Fitness called Burn Fat Fast. There is SO much to learn from this publication. The bottom line is to get lean and build muscle, they suggest the higher protein, lower carb diets--meaning you have to cut out the obvious junk. They do allow for "cheat meals" and they say don't stick to the ultra healthy foods 100% at first. Allow yourself to have half a candy bar if you can't resist. As for exercise, they have great plans laid out for alternating cardio and weight lifting. They also recommend taking days off. In this magazine, they continually talk about how bodybuilders have been ahead of the diet and exercise trends for years and years. I suppose that's kind of a "duh" but I find it very helpful to have all this info in one source. I'm basically just eating less regular food and not having anymore total junk. I do 20-40 minutes on the treadmill and I use the Nautilus weight machines. I'm sure to stretch well, too.

People are telling me that they can already see a difference. My face seems to slim quickly. It's also funny how when you start to lose weight, you become even more conscious of the fat you have left to lose. I want it GONE!!!
 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 

 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 

 

---

Posted by Povvin the Martian on :
 
LOL!
 

---

Posted by STU on :
 
Atkins is EVERYWHERE lately! I've been seeing "Atkins compliant" commercials for a bunch of chains, like Subway...
 

---

Posted by STU on :
 
Speaking of which...


 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Mmmm.... 7 meat burrito!

I've really been sticking to it (eating light and working out, that is...). The funny thing is, I've only lost about 2 lbs. Muscle's heavier, you know! I've been tested recently, though. My wife brought home one of those big tubs of trail mix!!! Yikes! Love that stuff. I'll have to ask her to hide it.
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Just got back from the gym...

LOVE the elliptical trainer! Wow, did I sweat. Today wasn't a weight lifting day, though, but I did the ab cruncher machine anyway...
 

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Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
Superbowl Sunday. Stay away from those potato chips!
 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Hmm. Superbowl Sunday. Chips, ribs, shrimp, buffalo wings, chili, more chips with some salsa, some beers, a few sodas....

Oh, sorry. This is the dieters support thread.
 

---

Posted by STU on :
 
[Homer] Mmmmm... super bowl sundae... [/Homer]
 

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Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
Hmm. Superbowl Sunday. Chips, ribs, shrimp, buffalo wings, chili, more chips with some salsa, some beers, a few sodas....

Oh, sorry. This is the dieters support thread.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Fat Cramer:

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
Hmm. Superbowl Sunday. Chips, ribs, shrimp, buffalo wings, chili, more chips with some salsa, some beers, a few sodas....

Oh, sorry. This is the dieters support thread.

---

Just make that DIET sodas and we'll still be on track.

---

Sorry, diet sodas are not allowed in our home. They contain aspartame which has the same active ingredient as MSG which Caroline and her parents are allergic to. So nothing but the real stuff here.
 

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Posted by Povvin the Martian on :
 
Waist Watchers uses Splenda to sweeten their sodas, Scott... check them out, they're pretty good!

And I've managed to stick to riding the stationary bike at work on my morning break for about two weeks now. I've added free weights... 10-lb dumbells for various arm exercises while I'm riding. Managed to increase my riding time to my full 15 min. break, as well as increasing the resistance on the bike. Hopefully it'll start to show soon...
 

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Posted by Povvin the Martian on :
 
(And Super Sunday wasn't my nemesis this weekend... Saturday, I spent the afternoon eating cheese and pepperoni on crackers and shrimp and lasagna while we watched the UConn men and women's games. Then that NIGHT, I went to my postponed work X-Mas party... )
 

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Posted by Stu on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by MLLASH:
I'm scum!! SCUM!!!!!

I just ate 2 "Little Debbie" brand Oatmeal Creme pies! I DESERVE TO DIE!!!!! Ummmm.... I mean... I deserve to diet.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Stu:
Then I grew up. Now, I have a crush on Mrs. Fields. You know, in a "here's to you, Mrs. Robinson" kind of way. But with snack cakes.

---

Which gives a whole new meaning to "put it in the pantry with your cupcakes"...
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Way to go, Povvins!!

I apologize for my breakdown, but yesterday I realized I had been weeks without anything sweet (other than a few sweet liquids).

I fought the temptation as best I could, but broke down after work and went to the store.

I eyeballed the Hostess snack cakes-- I admit I could easily be addicted to the orange, chocolate and new apple cupcakes. I eyeballed the vanilla Zingers which I also love.

Then I spotted the individual oatmeal creme pies for only a quarter each and went with those.

I must admit the truth, feeling the yummy sugar and delicious oatmeal cookie melt in my mouth was semi-orgasmic.

But I'll be back on track today.

Heck, what's the harm in treating yourself once every couple of weeks...?
 

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Posted by Povvin the Martian on :
 
A momentary lapse is a respite for the spirit, not a weakness. We all need our breaks! They keep us STRONG!

And Stuey... as long as it's not Famous Amos, buddy, that's all I have to say...
 

---

Posted by His imperial majesty, STU on :
 
I had a brief fling with Famous Amos in college. But we don't talk about that.
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by MLLASH:
I apologize for my breakdown, but yesterday I realized I had been weeks without anything sweet (other than a few sweet liquids).
....
Heck, what's the harm in treating yourself once every couple of weeks...?

---

From what I've read, there's no harm - actually it appears to be good for you to go off the diet for a day every two or three weeks. It fools your body out of starvation mode and prevents you from plateauing. So stop beating yourself up, Lash.
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I have to echo Semi's comment, Lash. In fact, if you are eating really healthy food most of the time, "cheat meals" (or snacks) are actually encouraged. They keep you from going nuts from deprivation. This past week ended up being a "not that dedicated" week for me. Problem #1, I drank a LOT last Saturday night. This meant on Sunday, I wanted salty, fatty (hangover) food. I gave myself those days off. However, I only went to the gym on Wed and Fri. My food intake was what I'd call "normal" all week. No extra junk, but I didn't eat lightly or especially healthier. On Friday, I got back on track. The elliptical trainer is my buddy!

My workout on Wed was a fitness evaluation. Turns out I score "excellent" at cardio! That's a relief...BUT I scored "poor" at crunches, pushups and flexibility. My bodyfat percentage (measured with that nasty calliper) was in the worst of 4 categories (I forget the actual wording). So, I have lots of work to do to improve. I keep wondering how bad it would have been if I had done my eval before I'd started this recent wave of exercising and food management?
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Uh oh, the dieting support seems to be fading...
 

---

Posted by STU on :
 
I have succumbed to the siren song of goth M&Ms...
 

---

Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
I've been very good with avoiding the snacks and exercising, but I take holidays off.

Valentine's Day, Flag Day, Heritage Day (?), Ash Wednesday ... that's it for February, according to my calendar. Isn't there a President's Day (cherry pie!) and they forgot to list Shrove Tuesday (pancakes).

Seriously, I think you have to take some breaks, unless you're suffering from some serious health problem which demands a rigorous diet. One guy I like for diet advice (Dr. Gabe Mirkin) advocates 19 out of 21 meals a week on plan - the other two, eat whatever you want, just don't go overboard. This helps a lot, you can eat out a couple times a week without feeling guilty or trying to get special orders.
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
FC, thanks for your words of wisdom. I had a cookie this morning (they were sitting there in the office kitchen crying out to me). I feel much less guilty now. Being around the half century mark, I've really been making an effort to "not go quietly" into middle age. During my twenties and thirties, I was a real gym rat - 6 times a week. In my forties, I slacked off. It took a while for my indolence to have its affect, but it did eventually. Now I've gotten back into excercising (6 times a week at 6:00 a.m. before work) and I'm very careful about what I eat and the size of the portions. I've also given up alcohol (don't tell the patrons of SHAKES). I've dropped 20 lbs. so far and firmed up. The best thing is that I have so much more energy. Let's keep this thread going and support each other's efforts.
 

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Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
It's a sad fact that most of us have to eat less as we get older - or exercise more. Usually the combination of both is best. Apart from the natural resilience of youth, I'd bet I'm in much better shape now than I was at 18, when I ate a lot of junk food, sweets, got no exercise, smoked and drank.

And congrats on -20 lbs. That's no small feat!

[ February 13, 2004, 11:10 AM: Message edited by: Fat Cramer ]
 

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Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
*sigh* I'm stalled at 187 lbs, and haven't been putting the effort in these last couple of weeks. Where's the support, folks?
 

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Posted by STU on :
 
With Valentine's Day and whatnot, I've actually *gained* seven pounds in the last couple of weeks.


 

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Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
Those whatnots are killers.... hard to avoid, too.

Weight fluctuates naturally throughout the day, and from day to day, which is why weighing yourself daily can be misleading. Home scales can be affected by humidity, the type of surface they're placed on... not to make excuses for anyone, but the fit of your clothes is often a better indication than the actual weight.

It's also normal to stall for a while - don't use it as an excuse to give up or hit the dessert cart! Your metabolism adjusts; sometimes you do have to increase, or even change, your exercise. Starving yourself is the worst thing to do; your body just goes into conservation mode and slows right down. Just stay on track and you should start to lose weight again.

Of course, there's a natural weight for people, too - much as I'd like to get down to 120, the only times I've approached that is with diet pills (never again, didn't sleep for six weeks) or when my mother was dying of cancer (very very stressful). So I settle for 130, it's obtainable through healthy means - and sustainable.
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I've been eating what I consider "normal" food, meaning not extraordinarily healthy choices, but no more of my worst habits, like McDonald's and the Chinese deli case at the grocery store. I've been regularly going to the gym, doing the elliptical trainer and nautilus machines and stretching. As I sit here right now, I don't feel much different than when I started all this. It's a bit discouraging. It seems like I need to be really really strict with food in order to see a change and I need to work really really hard in the gym. This is why the "healthy" lifestyle doesn't ever seem to stick with me. However, I'm not giving up. Rather than focus on what I can't be eating, I'm going to go ahead and stick with the "reasonable" meals I've been having and I'll continue my regular routine at the gym. I think that this "slow and steady" method of fitness will be worth it in the long run. I guess I wish I was seeing those rippling abs right now, which is unrealistic.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Cramey, you make a good point about sustainable weight. Several years ago, I went on a low/zero-fat diet (I ate stuff like all sorts of veggies and tuna packed in water-- EVERY DAY) and within a couple of months was the skinniest I'd ever been, like about 155 lbs. Of course, THAT didn't last!


*MOAN OF REGRET!*

Fine, I admit I fell off the wagon and ballooned back up to 199 lbs!!

So 2 days ago, I put myself on a low-carbs diet and this morning weighed 196, so-- so far so good.

I chose the low-carbs diet because the food is yummier than on the zero-fat diet I was on and you can eat plenty OF food, something I've decided I need. Don't like that starvation crap anymore.

The drawback to this low-carbs diet is, well, I love potaotes, pasta and bread, plus eating all that meat gets to me after a while.

So I made the decision to be on this diet ONE WEEK and see how much weight I can lose. I'll decide what to do next from there.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Jiminy Jillikers!!

Weighed this morning, which is the start of Day 3 on the low-carbs and weighed in at 194!! PROGRESS!!!

If this rate of weight loss continues and I don't start feeling crappy, I'll continue the low-carbs beyond a week!
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
I'm starting my popcorn diet tonight... Fresh, air-popped popcorn with no salt or butter for dinner, with 2-3 glasses of water-- and no snacks between then and bedtime!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Let us know how it works, Povvins!

MAN am I glad SUBWAY joined in the Low-Carb dieting craze!

Those new low-carb wraps are FANtastic!!! And I don't have to feel guilty!!!
 

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Posted by STU on :
 
Those SUBWAY low-carb wraps *are* really tasty, but I wish they were bigger! I ate one yesterday in like three bites...
 

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Posted by STU on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Pov:
I'm starting my popcorn diet tonight... Fresh, air-popped popcorn with no salt or butter for dinner, with 2-3 glasses of water-- and no snacks between then and bedtime!

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quote:

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Originally posted by STU:
Those SUBWAY low-carb wraps *are* really tasty, but I wish they were bigger! I ate one yesterday in like three bites...

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quote:

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Originally posted by STU:
Those SUBWAY low-carb wraps *are* really tasty, but I wish they were bigger! I ate one yesterday in like three bites...

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quote:

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Originally posted by Outdoor Miner:

quote:

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Originally posted by STU:
Those SUBWAY low-carb wraps *are* really tasty, but I wish they were bigger! I ate one yesterday in like three bites...

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I haven't tried them yet for just that reason, but I should. They sound pretty good.

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You could probably fit five Subway wraps into one Chipotle burrito. (The latter is probably almost five times the calories, etc., too... )
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Today: Start of day 6 of low-carb diet (with 5 days of actual dieting passed).

Weight: 192

Weight lost: 7 lbs

I'm liking this.
 

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Posted by the boy with UltraPowers on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by MLLASH:
Today: Start of day 6 of low-carb diet (with 5 days of actual dieting passed).

Weight: 192

Weight lost: 7 lbs

I'm liking this.

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well done LASH !!!

i still need to get into a major excersize program !!! i still haven't been going up to 3 times a week, like i said i would !!!

i did go on Saturday and have a brilliant workout, my muscles are still hurting now !!! i plan on going after work [ tonight ..... ]

Matthew.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
My current plans are to get back into working out once I get down to about 185...
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
WOW!

Yesterday evening was the end of day 7, 1 full week of low carbs! This morning I weighed 190!

Pounds lost in 1 week: 9

And I'm feeling great, so I'm gonna stay on this another week for sure.

Maybe the difference this time is that I've made sure to eat a salad just about every day to keep from meat overdose. And those SUBWAY wraps sure make getting through the weekends easier....

Hello, 180s! I'm coming to visit; haven't seen you for a while...
 

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Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
Lash must be down to 180 by now!!

Atkins is supposed to be very effective for weight loss, maybe not something you'd stay on forever. I never tried it - just prefer the vegan food anyways.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Fat Cramer:
Lash must be down to 180 by now!!

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Not quite.

But, after stalling out for a few days there, I finally DID enter the 180s and am thrilled!! Today's weight: 188. Pounds lost: 11

I suppose the slowdown of weight-loss was enevitable. I'll try to stay excited about it and not let myself get discouraged. Fortunately, I seem to be still enjoying the diet itself. All those salads and cheese... Yum!

I'm getting pretty close to my goal range of 175-179, a range I think I can maintain fairly easily.
 

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Posted by STU on :
 
I've been getting lots of exercise over the last week but have somehow managed to GAIN five pounds!

All's I gotta say is -- those five pounds better be pure muscle... (which I doubt, unless the muscle all manifested at my waistline )...
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
For those of you who work out regularly, what is your work-out? What do you really like and what do you really hate?

My schedule is a 6 day workout. Sundays and Wednesdays are chest, back, triceps and biceps. Mondays and Thursdays are legs (quads, hamstrings, calfs) and shoulders. Tuesdays and Fridays are abs and cardio. I also do cardio after my workout on Sundays. The only thing I hate with a passion is lunges.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
I've changed my work out quite a bit in the last few weeks. As Pov can attest, I'm a pretty big guy, I played hockey for years, worked construction and am currently a bouncer at a bar.

However, where I once was slim in the stomach and musculur up top, my long years of drinking and having a girlfriend (it's easy to slip when you're not single) have left me not quite feeling up to par.

So recently, I've began a routine where I do fifty push-ups, a strict ten to fifteen minute run (treadmill when cold, outside when warm), and then some sets of strait-bar curls or military press after. And then three days a week, I've been going roller-blading after my run!

It's good so far, I feel slim up top, and just need to keep working hard around the waste. I'm still solid around the arms and shoulders, and my chest is where I'd like it.

So, I'm getting there . Hard for me to measure in pounds though, because I have a lot of muscle mass up top, and I'm naturally a big guy!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I just had Taco Bell for lunch!!! Surely those flour tortillas were baked in some divine kitchen!

It was delicious! I'm NOT sorry! Nyahahaha!

Carbs!! Orgasmic carbs, flooding my body, filling my belly, expanding my fat cells, giving me a head rush!!!

I DON'T apologize!!! I'd do it again in a second!!!! I've been so good, I've earned a treat today!

*still reeling from flour tortilla-induced head rush*

Heaven!!! I am in Heaven on Earth!
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
It's Saturday, and that makes eating anything fine!

And Taco Bell is just too good!
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Hi! I haven't been at the computer much, lately!

This past week, and the week before were not great dieting/working-out weeks for me. I had a terrible cold, which did make for eating less, but no exercise. Once I recovered from that, I let the lazy food choices in... chicken wings (while the others had pizza) one night and then I was really busy at work, so I rewarded myself with a fattening meal a couple times. The point is, I haven't been trying very hard to be someone who's *trying* to lose weight and tone up. Last Thursday, I did an HOUR on the elliptical trainer. I was only going to do a half hour while I watched Ellen, but I wanted to see the whole show, so I stayed on. That felt good. Then I did free weights for my arms. I still feel that. We had burgers last night, so I gotta burn that off!

At least I'm more dedicated to rebounding from "bad" days than I used to be. I'll get back in that gym! I'll re-dedicate to "clean" foods! I'm not giving in. I am definitely smaller than I was in January, just not where I want to be yet.

Good job to the rest of you who are trying! It's great to come here to see how everyone's doing!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Cute Shirt Alert!!

Despite my shameless carb-laden indulgence at Taco Bell earlier today, I have tried on a cute shirt I wasn't able to get away with wearing before the diet, and now I *can* get away with wearing it--!!

A nice step in the right direction!!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Yesterday's taco binge did no damage at all; in fact, I finally lost another pound-- weight: 187. pounds lost: 12.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Excellent!

Hit-On meter: very good lately! I got two numbers on Friday and was hit on last night! Damn this girlfriend/monogamy stuff!

This week: more cardio!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
You go Cobie!! I'm doing pretty good there, too-- made out with 2 guys last night, making a complete spectacle of myself!

I felt just like Trishelle on REAL WORLD...
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Nice ! You can never have enough fun like that!

At work on Friday night, the girl that I thought was the cutest in the entire bar talked to me for at least an hour, and then made sure to tell me that the guy she was with WASN'T her boyfriend. She said she'd be in next week again!

This whole girlfriend thing is the only thinking stopping me from getting her number...
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I've been very good this week, eating really light and I've been to the gym everyday except yesterday, when I was on an all day field trip with the first graders. THAT'S a workout! Today, I did a quick warm-up on the elliptical and then did free weights on my arms. It's beautiful and sunny here, so I took my dog for a walk and it was a PAIN! He sniffs and sniffs EVERYTHING, so I have to constantly yank on his leash. At least I have one of those body harness things for him instead of gagging him around the throat. The problem is, I want to walk at a good pace, for cardio effect. I guess I'll have to do that without ol Henry.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Today's weight: 185

Pounds lost: 14

And as of now, I'm no longer depressed about my weight!

Just a few more to go to hit that coveted 170s range...!
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
I've been hit on more times in the last two weeks than in the previous three months combined!

Plus, I ran and rollerbladed three days a week for the last two weeks, and have been working out too! I'm feeling good again, myself!
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I'm ready to kick it up a notch. After a couple months now, of regular cardio excercises, stretching and mild weight training, I need to do something more intensive to really make a change in my body. I'm going to start more emphasis on free weights.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Today's weight: 183

Pounds lost: 16
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
I've been avoiding posting here... A) Because I'm more than a little embarrassed at my "start" weight, and B) I'm afraid of jinxing myself...

I will say I've lost around 15 lb.s in a little under 2 months, mainly from watching how much I snack or eat at mealtime, and walking for 30-40 minutes almost every day, with moderate weight training with free weights and on the Total Gym (think Chuck Norris infomercial ).

We'll see if it keeps up... or if I have indeed jinxed myself.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
GO Povvins, that's GREAT!!!!
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Great job Pov! I know that both of us felt like we needed to lose wait last time we met up, and it looks like we're both off to a great start!

Keep it up!
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I've been using the free weights, and am seeing a difference. I do get frustrated because I want to look like one of those guys from the BowFlex ads NOW! Not too realistic, eh? Still, I have to remember where I started. I was in REALLY bad shape, but now, look and feel pretty good. A number of people I've talked to can relate to how when you burn off a bunch of fat, you just wish ALL the rest of it was gone now.

How's everyone else doing? BUMP!!!!
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
It's been three months now since I have been working out, watching my diet (basically the Zone), and not drinking. I'm down to 182 as of this morning. So far that's 30 pounds. More important, my belt is 3 notches tighter and my pant size is two sizes smaller. I don't know how low I'll go, I'll just let it level out where it's meant to be. I'm 6'1", so I can carry 182 pretty well, but I'd like to be less than 175.

The exercise program I've been following is really great. It changes every two weeks so that your body is constantly challenged and doesn't get used to the routine. It only takes about 40 minutes, 6 days a week. I find that I can do it easily in the morning before I go to work. It's easy to do at home, because all you really need are a set of dumbells and an adjustable bench (although, if you have more equipment, you have a greater range of exercises to chose from). If anyone is interested, the program is in the "Body Sculpting Bible for Men." The authors aren't trying to sell supplements or anything - just the book. Heres the link on Amazon

I'm glad to see that so many of you are sticking with it. More power to you.
 

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Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
Everyone's doing great!

I'm waiting for the roads to clear so I can start bicycling - I think Semi's right that it does help to vary the routine.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
WOW Dean and Semi, congratulations!

I admit to becoming complacent recently, 'cause I had lost so much and was able to wear my clothes and was looking good.

But as I WELL KNOW, the hard work can be BLOWN to smithereens in no time at all. It hasn't been for me yet, but I also never quite reached my goal range in the 170s.

Current plan: to go back on the low-carb diet and also to do my excercise routine this time!

Thanks for bumping the thread, Dean, and re-igniting my dieting fire! You and Semi are inspirations!
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Great Lash! (Mascara commercial?)

And great Semi!

Since today was Easter, and there was a ton of food around all day, including the fabulous Cadbury Mini Eggs (!!!) I feel like any efforts I've made to improve my health and weight were shattered all today. I know that's not totally true, but it kinda feels like it. Anyway, the end of my company's challenge is actually early May, not late May like I thought, so starting Monday (tomorrow) I'm moving into a fierce new level of major discipline with food, more intensive exercise and less daytime down-time. I can rest at night! When I have my fitness assessment done in May, I want it to blow away the one I did in Feb.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Nothing's at all shattered. In fact, it sounds like your resolve is fortified!

You deserved a break from the diet today.

Now, show 'em who's DIET BOSS on May 1!!
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Hi Lash!
Oh, it was REALLY hard to get into that gym on Monday, but I did it! I did my cardio and stretching, knowing that I'd be doing weights today. I've moved into that new level of eating less than ever, too. Today, there was a circuit training class where you use a weight machine for 2 minutes straight, with low weights. It seems easy at first, but it burns by the end. I did that and my cardio and stretching. I only have about an hour and a half til I have to get ready for work, so I decided to come to LW to see what's up.

How're the rest of you fitness buffs doin'???
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Wow, it's been nearly a week since any posts here! Has everyone gotten spring fever? On Saturday (after my big audition...see that other thread) I was really hungry and just decided to eat whatever the hell I wanted to eat, plus my wife had been running errands (mostly kid related) all day, so neither of us felt like prepping food. So check this grocery list...
precooked barbequed ribs
frozen clam strips
frozen popcorn chicken
tater tots
Doritos
barbeque chips
Coke
orange soda pop
Chips Ahoy cookies!!!

I thought I'd burst, and the funny thing is, I *used* to feel like that almost everyday before this whole fitness endeavor. It actually served as a good reminder of how NOT to eat. I don't like feeling that way, so I'm glad I sorta revisited the old habit. Nice place to visit, wouldn't wanna live there...

Today, I went to the gym and did about 20 minutes of cardio (while watching Ellen), then I did my stretching. I can now sit with both feet straight out in front of me, and touch my toes without bending my knees and hold a stretch like that. That was my goal. Now that I've met it, I have a new goal. There is a simple device used to measure how far you can stretch. Without trying to explain it, I'll just say that back in Feb, I could reach to 11. Now, in April, I can reach to 16. By next month, I want to reach to 18. We'll see. I did a bunch of push ups and crunches, then I went to the nautilus machines and did a TON of reps on the ab machine. I did some reps on the bicep and tricep machines, too. I signed up for tomorrow's circuit training class. So, I'd say things are going well for me, fitness wise. I still have a layer of softness on top of my firmer stomach muscles. I still want it gone.

I'm glad this thread exists, because it's a good way for me to document what I've been up to...

How's everyone else doing?
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I actually felt skinny when I got up this morning. Yeah, I still have a soft tummy, but I was checkin' myself out in the mirror, and I sucked in my gut, and could actually make myself look thin! I went to the gym in the later part of the morning and did all my regular stuff that I've posted here several times already. It actually feels normal to go in there and do a workout and then go on with my day. That was definitely not the case back in December!
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
I feel thinner. I feel better in general, stronger. The damned scale isn't moving. <grumble, grumble > That's okay, I'm gonna go with what I feel. That scale will move eventually as long as I keep at it.

Keep it up, ever'body!
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Pov, don't forget that muscle is heavier than fat, so if you've been using your Chuck Norris machine and doing all that walking, then you're developing muscle and burning fat!

I haven't been to the gym for exactly one week now, and I feel GUILTY! My explanation is simply that Mother's Day weekend in the restaurant industry is a bruiser. Very busy. Then, I did a bunch of volunteer time at the kids' school, and yesterday, I just frikkin' rested! So, today, after I leisurely make my way around the net for a while, I'll go to the gym. THEN I have yard work to do.... No rest for the wicked! (Well, except for yesterday... I guess I'm not *that* wicked. Yay!)
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Guess what I'm gonna do in about 10 minutes...

work out! It's been a while, so I'll start off light and work my way up.

Also, I've been slacking off the diet too much, so in the morning I need to weigh & start pulicly recording my weight here again as incentive to stick with it.
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I never made it to the gym, I went on to the store and then did a bunch of yard work and gardening. That's *somewhat* physical! Hopefully, I'll get to the gym on Friday late morning...That's my plan, anyway...
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Weights:

5/14: 187

5/15: 187

5/17: 186


Am doing 50 situps, 20 butterflies currently.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Alright, I'm feeling VERY good these days.

I've worked out very strictly now for the last few weeks, and have made sure to run at least four times a week.

Like Pov, my actual wait has only gone down a bit, but I think a lot of that has to do with lifting weights. My waist feels thinner, and that's all that counts

Lookin' good guys!
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I have my fitness assessment on Thursday! I'm all filled with wishes that there was more time for me to work out more and starve myself and be really really thin and way way better at all the parts of the testing!

Well, I'm completely sure that I'll be better at each part of the test (crunches, push ups, stretching, 3 minutes on the aerobic step). I've made major changes with my food intake too. I guess I just wish for even MORE differences in how I look. I haven't looked at the shirtless picture I had taken back in February. I'm waiting till this is all over...
 

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Posted by Obadiah Oldbuck on :
 
Well, I have managed to take off 15lbs recently since getting diagnosed with Type II diebities. Down to 265 now.
 

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Posted by UTS on :
 
I've stopped drinking all sodas and juices, except for one or two servings a week. Instead, I drink only water.

While keeping the rest of my diet the same, this has been pretty effective in taking off 5 pounds in the last two weeks.
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I had my fitness evaluation today.... I was very pleased. I did 30 push ups in a minute, I did 70 crunches in a minute, I reached the 17 1/2" mark at the stretching test. I didn't catch the numbers for my body fat % (they pinch ya with callipers) and I didn't hear what my cardio results were. However, these are vast improvements over the results I had back in February at my initial testing.

At work, there's a whole "Fitness Challenge" where we all put money into a pool, we work out for 4 months and at the end, the people with the best results split the money. The results and prizes will be given at a big all crew meeting in early June. I'll let you guys know how I did.
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Today, I had my picture taken with my shirt off. I wasn't very pleased with it, because I still don't look like one of the guys from the SoloFlex ads. (No, I don't think I ever will, but I can WISH, can't I?) However, I did feel a little better about it when I compared it to the picture of myself from back in February. There's quite a difference. My company meeting is on Sat, June 5th, so I'll see if I "place" then.

I took a bit of a break from working out after that evaluation. I think in those few days since I stopped, I've already gotten a bit softer in the middle. I really have to work at it if I want to keep in a decent shape. Summer's coming, and I want to feel and look good, so it's back at it. In fact, some cool news is that my wife joined the same gym as me, and we'll start going together. Today, we're taking our cute little daughter to the family swim time at their pool.
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
Double-O -- My Mom's gotten herself in the best shape in a LOOOOOONG time since she was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes several years ago. She was given a choice... make some changes, or go on insulin injections for the rest of her life. I've never been prouder of her than I am now that she has her diabetes under control AND has quit smoking for over two years-- after 30+ years of it.

Stuey-- I agree, sodas and juices are a major culprit in childhood obesity. Empty calories, and fortifying the juices with vitamins don't justify it. Water, water, water, everyone!

Dean-- send all pictures to Cru. HE'LL tell you if you're pleasing or not! Keep up the good work. Everyone else, too!
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
P.S.-- rewarded myself with a stop at the UConn Dairy Bar today... medium cup of Black Raspberry.

That's it until next month, I swear!
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Great news, Pov!

Since it's a holiday, I'm not going to do any exercise today, but on Tuesday it's back to WORK!
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
Bought a pair of khaki shorts last weekend. I got them knowing they were too small, as an incentive to slim down enough to fit in them.

Only, I already can...!

Just on a whim, I tried them on after I got home-- just to get an idea of how much I needed to lose-- but they zipped and buttoned, no problem. Color me shocked. I can slip a coupla fingers under the waistband, even. I wore them to work Tuesday, and they were comfortable the entire workday. Yay!

Little surprises like that make it easier to stay focused on my goals, definitely.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Pov- great news about your Mom and about the pair of shorts! Great stuff! I've also slimmed down a bit, I'm feeling like the old me again! Each time we hang out we get tinier!

OO- that's great to hear that you're slimming down despite being diagnosed with type II diabetes. Keep it up!

And Dean, it seems like your a fitness maniac these days! Great to hear!
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Cobie, you're such a great guy, you deserve to feel good about yourself. Congratulations on doing good work on keeping yourself in shape, and I'm glad you're getting benefits from it!

Pov, you've been a regular poster at this thread and I'm glad you're feeling good and surely looking good.

I went to the gym and did some good cardio work as well as some good nautilus weight machine training. It's kinda been a while for me, but I'm back at it, and feeling good...
 

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Posted by Leap Year Lass on :
 

 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I've gone to Haiti in a Handbasket this past week, peeps! I've eaten everything but the kitchen sink and I've considered snacking on it too.

Time to get serious again. TONIGHT not tomorrow!
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
It's good to take a whole week off now and then Lash! I'm sure you'll be back on top of things tonight or tomorrow, but make sure you enjoyed all the things you ate this week
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
The pizza, the Funyuns, the twinkies, the blueberry/whipped cream pancakes from IHOP, the cheese fries, the Wendy's burgers... all were divine!

Tomorrow-- it's tuna and sugarless jello! AND situps!!!
 

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Posted by Kent Shakespeare on :
 
I fall off the wagon meself from time to time. still, i lost 40 pounds last year, and that momentum helps get me back on track.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
You're skinny!
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Okay, so I've mentioned that my company has a Fitness Challenge every year, where, in Feb, the people who wish to participate enter $80 into a pool. We get a fitness evaluation where the professionals at the gym test things like how many crunches we can do in a minute, same with push ups. We do a stair step for 3 minutes and get our heartrate tested. They measure our flexibility. They weigh us and pinch our fat with a caliper. So, after this test, we work out for the next four months, and in May, we get tested again. I've done this challenge every year for the last 5 years. Every year I tend to start off great, but then, usually less than halfway through, I give up and go back to normal. This year, though, as documented at this very thread, I've stuck with it all the way through. Earlier, I posted what my final results were. I did pretty darn well.

The results were presented at our big meeting last Saturday. Thirty something people started out doing the challenge, 17 people actually finished, 8 were given prizes. #8 was the only female to place. #7 was....YOURS TRULY! I placed! That was what I was hoping for beyond the whole feeling and looking better thing.... To be honest with you all, the top 6 were all pretty much young guys who were all already in great shape, but took the challenge as a true way of pushing themselves. EXCEPT for the guy who was #3. He had a dramatic weight loss. He looks great. He had some personal stuff happen in his life that really inspired him to get moving in the gym. It could have been a lot easier for him to eat too much, instead or drink too much or be lazy and feel sorry for himself. He went the right way, so everybody is really proud of him, probably even moreso than for the actual #1 winner. The top prize was $1000! Which is awesome. At 7th place, I made $100, which is fine with me. The money means very, very little to me. The feeling and looking better is what I appreciate. It was a very good experience overall, and I have continued to go to the gym, though I admit much less frequently. I've allowed myself more junk food, but the thing that seems to have stuck is that I get full much sooner than I used to. I eat less. That really matters, if you add it up.

Now, with summer coming, I want to move to a new level of fitness, where the rest of the fat comes off and more muscle tone shows. I'll continue to post here....
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
All right, DEAN!

Weight this morning: STILL too damned much, but around 25 lb.s less than where I started. I was stuck at a plateau for several weeks after hitting the 20-lb. mark, but the scales are moving again.

HUZZAH!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
YOU ROCK HARD, Dean! Go boy go! Congratualtions to you!

Povvins, I'm so proud of you!

Me? Well, I blew it last week too-- big time. But today I semi-watched what I ate and finally did my li'l work out again, so I hope this is the start of getting back on track. Will weigh in the morning and record it here, though I'm kinda scared to.
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
You'll get back on track, Lashie-- I have faith!

I've got a bit of a rough patch to get through. Tomorrow's our annual picnic for work, and Sunday Des and I meet up with Quis in Boston. Gonna have to jump on the workout train hard next week!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I demand photos of you Cobie and Quis, by the way! (I would demand photos of Stu but I know he will refuse; he can take the photos!)
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
I'm at a strange point. When I work out, I feel amazing that night and the next day--like this might be some of the best shape I've ever been in. When I miss a work out, I feel terrible, like I'm too flabby and embarrassed to be out. I think I'm at a crossroads, and only determination and hard work can get me through!

Still, I feel much better than the last time I saw Pov (one of the lowest I've felt in my life, due to stress from graduating college and getting used to it), and I can't wait to keep this workout routine through the summer! And I'm always up for pics, I want to have memories with Pov and everyone else well sketched out in my memory . Hopefully Sunday will be a good feeling day !
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Pictures would be great!

My before/after picture...well...I look a lot better after, but, it's still not a really flattering shot of me. I'd rather share a picture of myself clothed and looking great!

Lash, as Cobie has said, it's amazing how when you work out, you feel normal and great, but when you don't you feel guilty and in not as good shape. There's a kind of threshold you cross to get there. Sounds like you're still working hard on the food choices though, and I congratulate that!

Pov, sounds like you're trying really hard. C'mon now! If you can't give yourself a break at a picnic, when can you? The way I look at occasions like that is... the old Dean would eat a TON of food at a picnic. The new Dean eats a few really yummy favorites and then...wait for it...actually STOPS EATING when he's full! It's a difference that seems like no big deal, but if you were to add up all the calories, not to mention the bulky feeling, it'd be quite significant.

Cobalt Kid, I'm sure you're being too hard on yourself on your non-workout days, especially at your AGE! Remember that breaks are okay. However, it's also good to keep your priorities straight when it comes to your wellness and fitness. I totally understand where you're coming from.

Yep, summer's coming! Let's all keep at it and keep posting here!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Today's weight: 190

So I didn't undo ALL of my previous diet-work, which is good. And it should be pretty easy to get back to the 180s. That will probably happen tomorrow.
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Lash, we are so similar! I *think* I'm about 190 right now, but I might be 194 or 188. I have to check at my base scale, at the gym. I've been eating pretty well the last couple of days and I plan to have a great workout on Monday (late) morning.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Had a great work out today! I feel good, so I'm eating a nice hearty lunch and then will have a light dinner!

Lash, I'm sure that it'll only take about a week to get back to where you were. Whenever you want to get in shape, it seems that you're able to get the job done pretty quick! You too Dean!

And after seeing Pov yesterday, I can agree that each time we've seen each other now, we've both looked slimmer than that last time we did. Keep it up Pov! (Plus, all that walking made for a nice Sunday workout).
 

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Posted by UTS on :
 
I gained something like 3 pounds this past weekend!

Could have been the "Hog Heaven" wrap (cheese, bacon, ham, and eggs in a soft tortilla), blueberry cheesecake, and lime freeze I had yesterday.

(And maybe all that beer I had each night also didn't help... )

[ June 14, 2004, 04:56 PM: Message edited by: UTS ]
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
I'm glad to see this thread is still going strong and that you guys are still dedicated. I've stuck to my workout routine for 6 months now. I started out at (I'm embarrassed to say) 213 and for the last two weeks have been weighing in at 175-177. I guess that's a plateau, but not one I'm unhappy about. I'm pleased with my results. My waist has gone down 3 or 4 pant sizes, my biceps have grown and I'm pretty firm all over. I'm wearing clothes that I haven't been able to wear for many years. Oh, and I'm 50 now and in better shape than when I was 40 - that's just to say that it's never too late.

One last word of advice - LOW CARB ICE-CREAM!!! It satisfies the cravings and doesn't put on any pounds - really.

[ June 14, 2004, 04:56 PM: Message edited by: Semi Transparent Fellow ]
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
WOW! That is a certainly a plateau to be VERY proud of! MAJOR Congratulations to you, Semi! And re: the low-carb ice cream, yes it is indeed faboo.

Dean, I've always found us to be similar in certain ways-- this is definitely another of those ways! I wish I had drawing ability similar to yours!

Cobie, I think I work better under pressure. If I, like, had a date coming up or was going out like I used to, I'd probably do better. But if I ever set my lazy freakin' mind to it... yeah, I shape up pretty quickly.

I know what I need, is one of you guys to be my workout buddy. Watching you get all sweaty and muscley and stuff would inspire me to work harder!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Okay, so the past few days I've gotten back on track and am eating lots less. Bumped my situps up to 60 with no problem, might bump on up to 75.

Today's weight: 188

So being back in the 180s feels nice and is inspiring me to keep it up.
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
I'm still at 176 lbs. I took 5 days off working out because I was too sore - but I'm back at it with more energy than ever.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Best work-out yet yesterday! I'm taking the day off myself b/c I'm so sore, but I feel so good that this isn't a bad thing.

Now that the nice weather is here, I'm running outside everyday, which is the best way to shed all the fat off the places that are to slim down.
 

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Posted by mechana on :
 
Hey fellas! How do you feel about a girl in your midst? Seven years in front of a computer have wreaked havoc on my ass ( and other parts) and I really need to get in shape. I joined Weight Watchers a month ago and have lost 14 lbs so far. Now I really want to join the Y and do some weight training. All your success is very inspiring.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Welcome aboard Mechana! It's always good to hear how another person is doing, so keep us updated!

Girl or guy, it's always good for everyone to get in (and stay in) shape . I definately reccomend a little weight-training to balance the dieting too.
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
How's everybody doing? Welcome, Mechana. Keep us all posted on your progress. I've now lost 40 lbs since January 1, 2004. There's no secret to it, just lots of exercise, cut out sugars, bread, potatoes, and alcohol.

I've also discovered Splenda brand sweetened diet sodas - they're the only diet sodas I can stomach. Diet Rite makes a good raspberry soda and Hansens makes a good tangerine lime diet soda.
 

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Posted by mechana on :
 
I haven't found any Splenda sweetened soda in my community. That would be great; aspartame makes me gag, bleagh!

I've been so insanely busy lately there are no groceries in my house and I've been eating three meals a day at my desk. Not exactly a formula for success, and I actually gained a little last week. But that pissed me off enough to put me back on the straight and narrow this week.

Also, I work next door to a 7-11. The siren call of slurpees haunts me all day long!
 

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Posted by Outdoor Miner on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Semi Transparent Fellow:
I've also discovered Splenda brand sweetened diet sodas - they're the only diet sodas I can stomach.

---

My boss once made a strawberry pie using Splenda, and it was fantastic. Haven't seen any sodas around though.
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
Waist Watchers brand sodas all use Splenda. I can't wait for the major brands to catch up and switch from aspartame.

(As an old coworker once said, "Why would I want to drink something made from the ass parta me?" )

My Mom started using Splenda in everything after she was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes, and now I use it whenever I can. Everything else is too sweet now!

[ July 12, 2004, 08:14 AM: Message edited by: Pov ]
 

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Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
Bah. If I can't trim the fat off my screen name, I guess its time to start trimming the fat off me once again!

Look out 180s... here I come (again!)!

[ July 13, 2004, 11:59 AM: Message edited by: Eryk Davis Ester ]
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
Ah, 180's... How I miss Junior High...
 

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Posted by mechana on :
 
Hey everybody! Today was weigh day and I'm down a total of 20 lbs so far! Yay me!

Still haven't found any Splenda sweetened beverages here. Haven't even heard of the brands mentioned here. I think I'm going to try making Kool-Aid with Splenda as a break from water.
 

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Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by mechana:
Hey everybody! Today was weigh day and I'm down a total of 20 lbs so far! Yay me!

---

Good job, mechana!
 

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Posted by Outdoor Miner on :
 
Congrats, mechana!
 

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Posted by mechana on :
 
Thanks guys! If I ever have a chance to meet you all I don't want to be lookin' all frumpy!
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 


(And Kool-Aid with Splenda is GREAT!)
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Mechana, 20 lbs. is great. There's something immeasurably pleasurable in wearing loose fitting clothing, that used to be tight.

I'm surprised that Canada hasn't gotten Splenda products yet. When I was growing up in Ontario, I know that Canada used to be behind the States - but that was in the 50's and 60's. Now, Canada is often ahead in product introductions. Check out Safeway. I know they have them in Vancouver. I get my Splenda soft-drinks at Safeway here in San Francisco.
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I have pretty much stopped going to the gym! The kids are out of school, and we're running around a lot, but that's not really a good excuse. I really could add a workout in the morning before they need much attention (my oldest son can be in charge while my wife and I are away). My excuse has been that in addition to the kid stuff and work (remember I work in the evenings) I am PAINTING MY HOUSE!!! There is so much involved in that. The prep work alone has been almost unbearable. There are parts I have to get on the roof to reach. That's scary! It's just hard and very time consuming. More bad news, since I'm so tired and usually hot somewhat frustrated, I don't really feel like preparing wonderful nutritious food for us all. So, there's been more fast food and stops at the grocery store deli counter. The good news is that over this winter, I must have trained myself to eat less at a sitting, because that is a difference I can feel now that I didn't feel so much last summer. I just don't feel like stuffing myself the way I used to.

I haven't stepped on a scale, so I don't know the numbers, but I do feel bigger in the stomach than I did in May. That's not good. However, I must say that coming here to this thread is a great reminder that I am capable of doing it, so I'm GONNA go back to that gym!!!!

I have a birthday coming this month, and I find that to be a time to sort of take stock of my health and wellness. This year is definitely better than last year. (I had a sorta melt-down this time last year.) I want to look and feel good on my birthday. Also, my 20th High School reunion is coming next month. Hard to believe. So, I want to look good for that, too.

Looking good is important to me, but the best thing about eating right and working out is how it makes me feel so much better. Feeling better makes me look better too. I can't believe that's so hard to remember sometimes.

I'm hittin' that gym tomorrow morning right after the kids go to soccer camp!!!
That's it!
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I did it. I went to the gym right when I said I would! I think what's happened is that some of the muscle I built over the winter has dissapated and some fat has crept back on. I weigh 188. When I did various exercises and machines, I felt the same as ever on them. My flexibility is only slightly worse than before. This was good news. I want to continue now, and get nice and slim for my upcoming events. Food is still as big a factor in this as the exercise. I'll continue to post here, as this forum is really acting as a journal for me, to keep track of everything. A public journal, with other friends who are doing the same! I love to hear about everyone elses efforts.

Keep it up everyone!
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Way to go Dean. Have you thought about setting up a small gym at home? If space is limited, you can do exercises for just about every muscle group you can think of with an adjustable bench and a set of dumbells, . If space is not limited, you can add additional equipment for convenience. I started working out at home this year and it's been great. I do it first thing in the morning before work. While it took some adjustment to get up at 5:30 every morning, I now look forward to it. The best things are: (1) I have after work hours free, (2) there is no waiting for equipment, and (3) I have no excuse for missing a workout. I finish each workout in about 40 minutes.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Nicely done Dean! I also have a small gym at home, (although the tread mill is broke), and highly reccomend having one. The best part is that there is no drive there and back and you can shower after at your own convienence.

I'm happy with myself too, since I added a new part to my workouts--I've started going hiking! After hemming and hawing about it for awhile, I've started hiking after my early morning runs and weight-lifting sessions in the late afternoon. I love hiking itself, especially the gradual burn that you feel, in addition to being outdoors and having some nice peace and quiet that allows for some meditation time. I've lived my whole life in an urban area near a city, so I've come to love the outdoors since I get stuck with all the noise and pollution that accompanies it. Hiking lets me get outdoors and have a nice workout at the same time. Highly reccomended!

As for Splenda and Diet Sodas, I don't drink any of that except water. My biggest obstacles are cutting back on beer, liquor and coffee.
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Possibly the most important info of the week:

Low carb ice-cream flavored with Splenda, can now be found in the following flavors in my local grocery store:

Strawberry - my personal favorite
Chocolate
Chocolate with Peanut Butter Chunks
Chocolate Chip
Rocky Road
Vanilla Bean
Mint Chocolate Chip
Neopolitain

and, as of yesterday .....

Butter Pecan

Any other flavors we're missing out here?

[ July 21, 2004, 07:13 PM: Message edited by: Semi Transparent Fellow ]
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
Is this a particular brand, Semi???
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Those are the flavors offered by three brands:

Carb Solutions
Carb Smart (Breyer's Ice Cream)
Carb Benefit (Dreyer's Ice Cream).

[ July 21, 2004, 07:12 PM: Message edited by: Semi Transparent Fellow ]
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Today, like every Friday, is free donut and muffin day at work. There's an apple fritter with my name on it in the lunch room calling out to me. Like Odysseus, I have lashed myself to my office chair (I didn't have a ship's mast handy) to resist the siren call. It's always a struggle, but today I'm going to win.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Very appropriate, since shaping one's body is really like an Odyssey!

Went on the best hike ever on Wednesday, a two and half hour excursion up a mountain, and then the same back down. Best workout I've had in years, since I played hockey in high-school.

And I've now decided that I want to have a strict diet eliminating carbs, which will be hard, since chips and nachos are my Waterloo. But I want to be trim around the middle too!
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Missed my workout this morning because I had to be in court at 8:30 a.m. - but I'll just pick up tomorrow where I left off. I need to find a tailor to take in all my dress pants - they're all too loose, even the new pair I bought a month ago. I know I'm bragging (and I apologize), but I'm just really pleased that all this exercise has paid off.
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Bragging? No way! This is the place to communicate all our fitness news, good and bad!
Congratulations, Semi! You have every right to feel proud.

I haven't been back to the gym. I just went on a camping trip last weekend, which included rafting, and I totally feel all that rowing in my arms, still. Then this morning (well, Monday morning) I *was* going to go to the gym, but I got a call from my brother, telling me he'd purchased a used hot tub and he'd be working on installing it. So, I went over there and found myself helping him haul 12"x12"x2" concrete blocks to build the foundation. That was a workout. Had a salad for lunch and a chicken sandwich (with tomatoes and cucumbers on it, with NO side accomaniments) for dinner. So, I'm still watching the food intake, but not hitting the gym.

I wanted to respond to the questions about other forms of exercise versus going to the gym... I do have a weight bench at home, which I used at first, before I sorta took a break from all this. I really don't care for running/jogging because my knees are bad. The gym has equipment that I find both very effective for my needs, which is important, but also, there's just something about getting in there, making it happen and getting it done, then leaving. There's a HUGE mental element to exercise. To me, maybe even as much as the physical.
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
I really like working out at home. I burned a 70's disco cd that I work out to. That kind of music always makes me energetic, and believe me, I need all the help I can get at 6:00 a.m. The disc starts out with:

Working My Way Back to You Babe - Spinners
Heaven Must Have Sent You - Pointer Sisters
Shame - Evelyn Champagne King
If My Friends Could See Me Now - Linda Clifford
Dancing the Night Away - Voggue
Love is In the Air - John Paul Young

and at that point, I've usually finished the workout. So I seldom get to hear the rest of the cd.

By the way, what do the rest of you use for sore muscles? None of the products I've tried really help.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
That's great news Semi! You should definatley feel proud! And please, continue all bragging, everyone. It helps me keep up my workouts

Dean, it sounds like you had to very good workouts without going to the gym. I'm sure you'll get back into going soon enough--it's good to sometimes take an extended break from a strict routine.

As for me, I'm doing great! I've decided to do something I've never really done before and start eating healthier and watching my carbs, in addition to working out and running every day. I want to tighten my stomach for the first time in ten years. And I've really started to like eating cottage cheese and fruit, which should help. Another mental trick I pull on myself is to grab a cup of coffee or tea late at night instead of having a bite to eat (it hasn't kept me up yet, so that's good). All in all, I'm feeling good and slimmer than I have in awhile! My clothes actually feel a little looser and I'm surprised at how much weight I've lost when I looked at the pic Darden posted of me from six months ago.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
May a lowly fat backslider return to this thread...?

If I'm going to be meeting up with folks at the Dallas con this November, I want to look my best... so I reckon its back to Diet City for me!
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Welcome back, Lash. We're here to support you in this heroic endeavor.
 

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Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
Support, yes - but we're not Dev-em - we love you any way you are.

Regarding music when you exercise - it definitely helps me, but some types of music don't work with my running, the pace seems wrong and I go too fast and wear out early, or just seem to be out of balance.

Sore muscles - besides rest, does a heating pad help? Or a comfrey poultice, if you have any growing (don't take it internally).
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
FC, my problem is my shoulders. My deltoids are sore all the time. To make matters worse, I sleep on my side and that tends to exacerbate the problem. Before my workouts, I use linament (like Flex-all or Ben-Gay) and that helps. But at night, there is no way I want my bed-sheets smelling of menthol and camphor.

I've never heard of comfrey and I'm not sure what a poultice is (but I can look it up).

And I did in fact look it up. Handy little thing this internet. Now all I have to do is find my local comfrey root and wintergreen grocer.

[ July 29, 2004, 03:26 PM: Message edited by: Semi Transparent Fellow ]
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Well, I ate less today than I did yesterday.

Liquids only from here on 'til bedtime. (reckon I'll have to get up and pee a lot through the night?)

Am weighing for the first time in ages tomorrow morning... *whimper*
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
For me, the music has to have a slower pace than the actual workout, especially when I run. Otherwise, I run faster than I'm used to and tire myself out. Whatever gets you mentally psyched is the way to go.

Glad to have you back, Lash! And you'll be back in the shape you want to be in no time--you seem to have a knack for that!

Workouts are going great for me! I've watched what I've eaten all week, for the first time in my whole life! And I've been running everyday too! I've always been a big guy and have tried to get 'bigger' through weight-lifting, but I think I'm going to go for a more slim look (not skinny or tiny) and see how it works for me (and if I can do it).

Keep it up everyone!
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Cobalt Kid:
I've watched what I've eaten all week.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Semi Transparent Fellow:

quote:

---

Originally posted by Cobalt Kid:
I've watched what I've eaten all week.

---

This is off topic, but this phrase has always made me think of one of the following:

1. Me too. I never eat in the dark.

2. Me too. It's more fun to stalk my food for a while before I pounce and kill it.

I know, that's sick.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by mechana:
But imagine how thin we'd all be if we had to stalk and kill everything we ate. Alas, that bag of Cheetos did not put up much of a fight.

---

You'd think they would, though, with that cheetah on the bag. At least, they should run away.

FALSE ADVERTISING! I'm gonna sue Frito Lay because Chester Cheetah made me fat!
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by MLLASH:
Today's weight: 194

Merde!!

No dinner for me tonight!

---

*sigh*

I know what you mean, Lashkins. My diet train wrecked hardcore over the last month or so... Lotta stress at work, and with my pending purchase and move...

But the biggest stumbling block has been not being able to even walk properly for the last two weeks. Completely ruled out even the stationary bike, never mind my half-hour stairstepper routine.

Ugh, I feel as fat as I look!
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Aw, Pov! Take it easy on yourself!

I went to the gym Wednesday morning and then loaded up my kids and my nephews and went to the lake for an overnight campout. Being in charge of 5 kids is a TOTAL workout.

Confession time--MOST of the meals I've had in the last week have been "convenience" food. The only positive thing about that is that the quantity is less than I used to take in. Summer's just too busy-busy to prep food. One bonus is WATERMELON! We've all had lots of watermelon all summer. Good thing.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Bri, you're being too hard on yourself (and you too Dean!). The main thing is that you realize when your work outs are slowing down and then take steps to fix it!

You've already begun the first step
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Well, I went to the store today and stocked up.

I'm banishing fast food to the realm of ghosts & shadows! I'd gone a little berserk with the fast foot recently.
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
If you'd gone with the fast foot, you coulda gotten away with the fast food, Lash!



In spite of my relative inactivity, I was surprised to find I haven't actually put any weight back ON. Or maybe I have, but I still weigh about what I did the last time I weighed in.

:scratcheshead:
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I skipped weighing today, but I will tomorrow and report in! I can't handle this 190s crap!
 

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Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
STUPID LONGEVITY QUIZ!

Today's Weight: 195.5.

STUPID 190S!
 

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Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
Today's Weight: 195.0.

That half-pound may just be within the margin of normal variation over the course of a day, but I feel optimistic!
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
This is the most slim I've been since mid-college. My clothes actually feel loose, and I've been getting hit on everywhere I go!

I've been running, roller-blading and some hiking here and there, but it's mainly due to dieting, something I've never really done before. No carbs, with smaller portions when I eat is the way to go!

And I have a new appreciation for fruit, veggies and cottage cheese. I also recognize that I will never have the willpower not to eat beef, pork, chicken, veal, etc., so I will never try
 

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Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
Today's weight: 194.0.

I find I can slim down pretty quickly if I just pay attention to calories, and cut out the fast food and, especially, pizzas.

Getting ready to walk the roughly 2-3 miles to my office.
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Good going Eryk. Looks like you're on a roll (no pun intended, seriously).
 

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Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I've been eating really lightly all week. Don't feel much different, but that's good because I don't feel fatter....
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
I've had good workouts this week, although a couple of days it was a real struggle to get started. Yesterday was particularly good and I got a good pump. Nevertheless, I'm really looking forward to Sunday, the one day I don't work out.

Diet tip: For those days when you can't be bothered to cook and are in danger of eating junk food, try a "Life Choice" frozen dinner. They are high in protein, low in carbs, and low in fat. No frozen dinner is totally satisfying, but these tend to have bigger meat portions than most, so the protien content is higher. I use them for lunch at work several days a week. The chicken breast dinner contains 2 breasts and string beans and is a pretty healthy meal.

Tip 2: Cherries are really low on the glycemic index, which means they release their sugars into the blood stream very slowly. Thus, you don't get a blood sugar spike which causes excess insulin production (believed to be the mechanism for storing carbs as fat). Bottom line, if you get a sweetness craving, eat cherries.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Today's weight was 191, so I am heading in the right direction.

Not on a "diet" per se, but eating a lot less.

And I know with the con coming up in November, I'll have plenty of incentive to stick with it now!
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Was at the grocery store yesterday and guess what I saw? Low carb Creamsicles! No kidding.

[ August 09, 2004, 02:55 PM: Message edited by: Semi Transparent Fellow ]
 

---

Posted by Beagz on :
 
>groan<
I think I broke my scales.
 

---

Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I participated in my 20th high school reunion festivities all weekend and drank excessively. I'm sure all the calories in that added up to a lot. ALL the food available was GARBAGE, which made me feel like a snob, but also helped me continue to eat lite.

BTW, I had a GREAT time at the reunion. I have a lot more in common with the people from my class now, than I did back then. In fact, I see potential for current friendships that I never would have imagined before.

Uh... back to the topic.... Go to any reunions you can; surely they'll be fun; but don't expect healthy or even delicious food.
 

---

Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Update:

A cute girl handed me her number on Saturday night, so I must have looked good !

I'm still feeling slimmer and slimmer each week!
 

---

Posted by Beagz on :
 
Okay, now I KNOW my scales are broken!!!!

And Cobie, the way things are going for me, if you don't want her number, can I have it??????
 

---

Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I love the way Cobie's judging his fitness success by how many digits he gets! That's great! I'm sure your confidence and personality have something to do with attracting the girls, too, m'man...
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Dean, you bring up an interesting point. Why do we do this? Do we do it to feel healthier? Do we do it to improve our mental image of ourselves? Do we do it so that people will be attracted to us? Do we do it because we are becoming more aware of our own mortality and want to forestall it?

I think all these reasons are legitimate, and each of them is a part of why I exercise and watch what I eat. Why do you all do it?
 

---

Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
Today's Weight: 193.5
 

---

Posted by deanlegion on :
 
I spent my 20's eating and drinking anything I wanted. I used to live quite a partier's lifestyle at night, but still have the energy to get up in the morning and take care of kids and my home. Oh, and still look GREAT!

So, as I entered my 30's I continued to live this way. How fun, right? Well, the stomach aches and pains and heartburn started to take longer to pass and the fat started to pile on. I didn't even realize... well, I denied it. When I had to have my driver's liscence picture updated, I had a meltdown. I looked like a great big, older man! That wasn't me! This was actually one year ago.

As anyone who's been participating at this thread knows, I began working out and watching my food intake. The benefits began immediately! I had more energy. My stomach didn't hurt as much or as often because I wasn't stuffing a bunch of JUNK into it! I looked a lot better. Ya know how some people actually look cuter with a bit more roundness to their cheeks? That's not me. My confidence increased as I began to feel and look better. I was getting lots of support from friends and family and from here! The only problem with this type of lifestyle is that it's hard (for me)! I have to stay on top of it all the time. So, I'm still trying. I still eat some junky stuff and I still miss workouts; but I still eat well and still get in the gym, too. It's a juggling act.
 

---

Posted by Kent Shakespeare on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Semi Transparent Fellow:
Dean, you bring up an interesting point. Why do we do this? Do we do it to feel healthier? Do we do it to improve our mental image of ourselves? Do we do it so that people will be attracted to us? Do we do it because we are becoming more aware of our own mortality and want to forestall it?

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Beagz:


And Cobie, the way things are going for me, if you don't want her number, can I have it??????

---

It's funny, but I do count getting hit on and getting girl's phone numbers as part of measuring my fitness success. I know personality and confidence (which I've always had a lot of) factor in, but it's such an encouraging confidence boost to know that you look good.

I think I'm mainly honing my body (I'm already in decent shape) for two reasons: the first is to be physically attractive, and the second is to feel healthier when I do stuff.

Also, there are plenty of times we all feel depressed about various things. I know I'm practically going insane over looking for a job--I feel like I'll be unemployed forever at this point. So working out is the best stress reliever and cure for depression that I have.
 

---

Posted by Kent Shakespeare on :
 
I know the feeling, Cobie... been there, own the bankrupt T-shirt company! Know what you mean about the phone #. Bon chance avec les filles! And don't feel depressed... think of the guy who might only aspire of being functional enough to push shopping carts, let alone being a college grad like you!
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Rah, rah, rah. I actually don't have anything to say, so that was my expression of support for the day.
 

---

Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
TODAY'S WEIGHT: 192.5
 

---

Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
It's steadily dropping EDE, keep it up!
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Good going EDE. At this rate, you should be 190 by the end of the weekend.
 

---

Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
I hope so!
 

---

Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Haven't been to the gym for exactly one week... better go!
 

---

Posted by Kent Shakespeare on :
 
living up to my surname here...

Get thee to a sweaterie!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
186 2day, joy! will reach 170s this time, trust.
 

---

Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
Congratulations, Lash!
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
Okay!

House is bought, move is done... Time to get back on track with my weight.

Wouldn't this be one hell of a year if I got my own place AND got my weight below what it was in high school?

That's the plan!

But for now, please forgive some self-deprecating humor in my new sig. I used this line on my sister, and she laughed too hard for me not to share it...

------------------------

Sixpack Abs... Just using 40 oz. cans.

[ August 14, 2004, 05:24 PM: Message edited by: Pov ]
 

---

Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
A change like the one you're going through might be just the thing to kick-start the weight losing Bri! Recently my Mom (mother of four) started dieting and walking before work in the mornings, and has lost weight for the first time in twenty years. She's even cut her hair (it's been long since the 1950's) to commemorate the change in lifestyle and it's helped her get started!
 

---

Posted by deanlegion on :
 
Yikes! Now I haven't been for exactly one week and three days! Better go!
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Does anyone use protein powder to make a shake after a workout? What's your favorite brand? Right now I'm using Optimum Nutrition's 100% Whey Protein, double chocolate flavor. I add it to water and non-fat yogurt. It's surprisingly good.
 

---

Posted by STU on :
 
I used to drink MetRx daily when I was exercising regularly. The chocolate isn't too bad, and the vanilla is palatable if you add some banana slices. However, if you don't add bananas and you make the vanilla with water instead of milk, it just tastes like bad yellow cake batter...
 

---

Posted by STU on :
 
By the way, I've been having nothing but wheat bread, peanut butter, fruit, and water for the last three days, and I've lost four pounds! (I've also been exercising a bit.) I doubt I can keep up either this diet or this rate of weight loss for much longer, though...
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Cobalt Kid:
A change like the one you're going through might be just the thing to kick-start the weight losing Bri!

---

You're probably right, Cobes. Between moving and being in full control of my fridge again, the weight's trickling off... another pound+ in the last two days, with no real exercise other than unpacking and caring for my new place. Right now, I'm back to the weight range I maintained for the last five years, before I packed it on when I returned to work. So my REAL weight loss starts now. The 30+ lb.s I just lost were sucker pounds.

And congrats to your Mom, Des! If you get your looks from her, I'm betting she's a hottie!
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
P.S.--

When do you guys usually weigh yourselves?

1st thing in the morning? After a good dump?
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
I weigh myself in the morning, after my work-out and after my shower. In the morning is when you will weigh the least during the day. So you might as well give yourself every advantage to feel good about yourself for the rest of the day.
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
Agreed... but I love sneaking on the scale in the evening and realizing that even though I've eaten everything I'm going to for that day, I'm -still- lighter than the previous weigh-in...!
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by STU:
By the way, I've been having nothing but wheat bread, peanut butter, fruit, and water for the last three days, and I've lost four pounds! (I've also been exercising a bit.) I doubt I can keep up either this diet or this rate of weight loss for much longer, though...

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Semi Transparent Fellow:
STU, you need to vary your diet. Make sure you are getting sufficient protein, good carbs (from vegetables) and fat (peanut butter is a good source if you don't overdo it). The diet you are following is high in fat and starches, but low in protein. Try cutting out the bread and adding chicken breast or turkey or lean beef.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Pov:
P.S.--

When do you guys usually weigh yourselves?

1st thing in the morning? After a good dump?

---

During a good dump.
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
That's either really messy, or a helluva high-tech toilet...!
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by STU:
I'm trying to have more salads that don't have heavy, creamy dressing and that do have chicken breast or lean ham...

---

I'd eat more salads if they had Mia Hamm on them...
 

---

Posted by STU on :
 
Or Paul Hamm... with heavy, creamy dressing...!
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Tonight I'm going to slice up a left over pork chop and toss it with baby greens, arugula, tomato, balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
 

---

Posted by STU on :
 
I love Monte Cristo sandwiches, but could they be any more unhealthful for you? Ham, turkey, and cheese between two pieces of French toast, and then fry the whole thing. (And dip it in maple syrup if you've got it!)

I think that just reversed my diet efforts for the past week... but dang, was it good...!
 

---

Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
Today's Weight: 189 lbs.

After stagnating in the 190-191 range for a week or so, I've finally broken the 180s!
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Congratulations Eryk. It's always exciting to drop down into the next 10's. What's your goal?
 

---

Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Congrats EDE!

And Stu, Monte Cristo's are *very* good. Now you've got me thinking of them...
 

---

Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Semi Transparent Fellow:
Congratulations Eryk. It's always exciting to drop down into the next 10's. What's your goal?

---

Hmm... I believe I was about 165 when I graduated High School, so 165-170 would be a really nice range.

Today's Weight: 188 lbs.
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
165-170 is ambitious, but a realistic goal. Since January 1, I've gone from 213 to 174 (where I've remained for the last 2 or 3 months) and would like to get to about 168-170. I'm 6'1" with a medium frame so at that weight, my body-fat % would probably be about 10%. What I need is a kick-start for the last 8 lbs. (When I finished high-school, I weighed 145 lbs. - that was too skinny. Of course there's no photographic evidence of that, since cameras had yet to be invented. )

[ August 25, 2004, 10:27 AM: Message edited by: Semi Transparent Fellow ]
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Jeepers, Eryk! Dont get TOO skinny-- I like my co-writers with a little meat on their bones... so I can be the petite one!
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
How's everyone doing?
 

---

Posted by STU on :
 
I fell off the wagon. Luckily, a vat of doughnuts was there to cushion my fall.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Still lingering in the mid-180s. Need to eat less.

Also, I was strictly drinking diet soads and tea-- 0 calories-- but then I tried Pepsi Edge and quite liked it, but it's still 70 calories a pop there, and I need to cut that back out.
 

---

Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
I'm doing good, but lately I've been hemming and hawing on eating healthy. Damn Harpoon IPA and cheesburger clubs at the diner with fries !

I still feel like I'm getting thinner now, so I just have to be patient.
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
I was worried last Sunday as a friend took me to lunch at a very nice restaurant in Napa. Fortunately (or unfortunately) I ordered something that made me gag and didn't eat much. (I was being recklessly adventurous and ordered kidneys in a peppercorn cream sauce). I lost 2 lbs. that day. Needless to say, I don't recommend this as a diet aid.

I ramped up my workouts for the next few weeks. The big test comes at the end of September. My mom is coming to visit for a week. She's like the energizer bunny - go, go, go. She loves to go out to eat, lunch and dinner every day. Usually after her visits, I never want to see another restaurant again for as long as I live. I hope I can control it with non-eating activities this time. Wish me luck.
 

---

Posted by deanlegion on :
 
All summer, I've had so much going on, that it seems like I forget to plan meals, which naturally means I end up getting something convenient, like fast food or deli food, which is really bad. Plus, I've been going out with friends a lot lately, which means more drinks and appetizers than I really need. I can't even think about the stuff we packed when we recently went camping. I'm convinced that I should go on the "act like a kid" routine. I must admit that my wife and I are both strict and lenient with our children's food. Overall, we are careful that they are getting good nuitrition with plenty of fruit and veggies and so on, but we also allow that junk food to come in. The thing is, my kids are very active and even athletic, so we know they're healthy and fit. Their bodies can take a little junk. Maybe I should try expending as much energy as they do in a day. See how much weight flies off then.

I'm looking forward to proudly posting how great I feel after a good sweat at the gym, again. I like those posts better than ones like this.

Semi, it sounds so fun to go out to eat with your mom! I think you should go to a different place each time and be super fussy about how lean you want your food prepared!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I've got a 5-day mini-vacation as of now, which could be a dieting disaster.

NOT gonna let it be.

I now vow to be down to 180 by next Tuesday morning!!

Wish me luck-- gonna need it!!!
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Good luck Lash. Keep really busy so you don't think about food.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
All I've had and will have today has been chicken noodle soup with crackers and diet soda and tea! Will weigh in a.m!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Today's weight: 185

Good, a pound less than when I last weighed. Look out, 180, I'm coming to visit!
 

---

Posted by Semi Titanic Fellow on :
 
Have hit a milestone: my waist is down to 32. I've also gotten down to 172 lbs.
 

---

Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Congrats Semi! Great stuff! A Milestone right before the weekend is very good news indeed.

Good luck Lash! On to 180!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
That's AMAZING, Semi! Aren't you tall, too-- like 6 feet or taller? You know what they say about long, lean & lanky guys...!


Today I had more chicken noodle soup, but I also had a small bowl of raisin bran (for the fiber) and I allowed myself a little ice cream too. Probably will have gained that pound back, but I hope not...
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
OMG! I can fit into my tightish little come-do-me football jersey! I love reclaiming my wardrobe!
 

---

Posted by Stueey on :
 
I just got a hold of Legion Archives 3, and this particular panel amused me:

Bouncing Boy: "Look... since I'm slender, girls don't laugh at me anymore... they like me! Meet my girl friend, Iresa..."

Superboy, after taking a look at Iresa: "Oh, no... I... er... mean, she's wonderful, Bouncing Boy!"

That Superboy, the epitome of tact.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 

 

---

Posted by deantitan on :
 
A new era of fitness begins on Wednesday.
Probably.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I blew mine last night. I couldn't bear the thought of going out again so I stayed home and ate Taco Bell and ice cream!
 

---

Posted by Stueey on :
 
Another amusing panel from Legion Archives 3:

Now we know how Legionnaires lose weight -- Ayla is using "the cellular trim ray treatment to get rid of unwanted extra pounds quickly" when Saturn Girl calls her for an important meeting.

Well, her butt does look a bit more padded than usual in that panel... but that's what happens when you overindulge in Ma Ranzz's homemade pluberry tarts.

(Then again, what do you expect from a planet where it's practically a crime to refuse second helpings...?)
 

---

Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
*sigh* The cellular-trim ray was groovy! Too bad Tenzil had to eat it after what it did to Bouncing Boy!
 

---

Posted by deantitan on :
 
Cellular trim rays. Must be nice!

Yes, Wednesday is my new day of fitness. The kids go back to school that day. I'm sad about that. I actually like having them at home.
However, for me, this is late Monday night. Yeah, early Tuesday morning. I just had Jack in the Box Ultimate Bacon Cheeseburger with fries and a Dr. Pepper. I'm a nut. I should so NOT be eating like this.

Oh damm well...
 

---

Posted by Semi Titanic Fellow on :
 
It was very warm in San Francisco all weekend (90-100). Wouldn't you know it, this was the weekend I chose to paint the kitchen and main bathroom. Even with a fan going, the house was like a furnace. Yesterday I went through 8 sodas (fortunately, they were diet sodas). I actually sweated off 3 pounds. Unfortunately, the "khaki" color I chose for the bathroom ended up looking like "toxic radioactive pond scum." I have to do the whole thing over.
 

---

Posted by deantitan on :
 
Actually, I've been spottily painting the outside of my house all summer. This past weekend, I really focused on powering through it.

Okay, painting, especially while on a ladder, is a GREAT workout! I've used muscles that I know I haven't used in a long time. One coat of paint is almost done, then I get to go around the whole house again for the second coat. At least the second coat is always easier. Semi, luckily, I like the color. It's called Dark Night (it's dark blue and we have white trim and windows). My kids and I have dubbed the color Dark Knight, because we are all comic fans.

I didn't go to the gym yesterday (Wednesday) but I'm going today!
 

---

Posted by Semi Titanic Fellow on :
 
How's it going, folks? I did get down to 172 the other day, but then I was bad. I'm now at 174.5. You know, I enjoyed being bad.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I weighed 185 today AGAIN. Seem stuck there; maybe time to switch battleplans? I mean, I look alright at 185 and can wear *most* of my wardrobe, but there's still those tightish little club shirts I want to get back into...

And even though I didn't reach my stated goal of 180 while on vacation, the more important thing to me is that I didn't GAIN while on vacation...
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Jillikers, after rereading this entire thread, I feel so much better about being at 185.

Back in January when I started this thread, I had reached 204 pounds! *shudder!!*

Then I dieted down into the 190s, but quickly ballooned back up to 199!

That was in March; I then went on the low-carb and dieted all the way down to 183 (my lowest recorded weight yet on this thread).

Of course, after that, I vanished for a while from this thread (meaning I had goten complacent and started eating whatever I wanted, no doubt) and when next I showed up I was BACK in the 190s!

So in August, I started this "eat less" thing, and although the weight has come off VERY VERY slowly, it has come off and, more importantly, has stayed off. One month ago I weighed 186, today I weighed 185. That's with virtually no effort on my part. Maintaining is important, something I haven't done all this year until now it seems.

Yeah, 185 doesn't sound so bad.
 

---

Posted by deantitan on :
 
I went to the gym last Friday, and the Friday before that. Lash, for me, the difference is definitely how much I work out. When I spend that time in the gym, the last thing I want to do is eat a bunch of junk and wreck all my hard work! I'll be hitting the gym more regularly now. The routine of it is pretty comforting actually.
 

---

Posted by Semi Radiant Fellow on :
 
Good for you Lash and Dean. I think the eating less is the best way to go. It's what works for me, although I have to avoid starches and sugars. If I have bread or rice, I see a pound or two of weight gain the next day.
 

---

Posted by deantitan on :
 
I've been eating really lightly for the past couple of weeks. I went to the gym this morning, but my iPod was not charged, so it wasn't as fun. I just did some cardio. It's nice and sunny here today, so I'm going outside to do the "paint yer house" workout. YeeHAW!
 

---

Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Sounds good guys!

I've really slimmed down too in the last three months. I was never really unhappy with my weight, but I wanted a more slim look (I've traditionally gone for the muscular/big look). It seems to be working well.

If I measure it on getting hit on in the bar, I'm doing pretty well
 

---

Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
Today's Weight: 185 lbs.
 

---

Posted by Ultra Cyborg on :
 
Cobalt Kid: same here. I'm tall (6'1") and was skinny growing up...college and life caught up. I love to eat and didn't want to stop decided to lift big to go along with the new fat me.

But I need to trim down more. Currently 240 and I need to be 220. Anything less than 220 I start looking too skinny.

But darn I love to eat! Eating smart (light), lifting smart, CARDIO, and not eating late is my method...it works fine...sadly i fall off it. i forgot to mention i love alcohol almost as much as food.

Jorge
 

---

Posted by Ultra Cyborg on :
 
Hey i workout lots so if any of you guys wanna chat working out...sadly NO SECRETS...just do it...hard work stuff. need to keep each other motivated. I can hang with the smallest details of your workout as if it was an obscure legion fact.

You guys have lost weight and I need too! Great thread guys.

Jorge
 

---

Posted by Semi Radiant Fellow on :
 
Well after a week of my mom visiting, I only gained 3 pounds. I was down to 170 when she arrived, but am now at 173. I managed to work out each day, and was pretty good when eating out (except for the rolls - I ate them, and often seconds).
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Weighed in at 172 this morning. 160's here I come.
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Looks like I've got the gym all to myself. Isn't anybody doing this anymore?
 

---

Posted by Zombie STU on :
 
Instead of dieting, I just decided to use the cellular trim ray. I'm now a svelte 160 pounds (and rippling with muscles, which is another benefit of the ray).
 

---

Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
Jillikers! I need to get busy on this!

Looks like I'm being auctioned off at a Date Auction in less than a month, and I need to count on more than my ultra-groovy personality to sell me!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I pre-bid ONE HUNDRED BILLION DOLLARS!!!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Stupid rich people, trying to outbid me!

Eryk, no one's going to outbid me so we might as well plan our date!
 

---

Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
Ah... Lash!
 

---

Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
Today's Weight: 188.5 lbs.
 

---

Posted by Zombie STU on :
 
I've been sick and overworked the last week and a half, and have lost 3 pounds.

I don't recommend this diet.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
This is as good as it's going to get, I'm afraid!



 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
I'M afraid, too... Afraid to be seen with you in Dallas, as I can only suffer in comparison to your beauty! mwaaah!
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Good for you, Lash. Looking good.
 

---

Posted by knowjack on :
 
Gosh, I wish I'd known about this thread!

I've been dieting since July 4th, and have lost about 28 lbs. My coworkers say I need to stop losing, but I want to lose another 10 lbs.

I walk 2 miles every morning, but it's been pretty crappy weather lately here in good ol Memphis, so haven't been walking much. I've been doing the South Beach Diet, and sort of modifying it to suit my needs. I'm vegetarian, so can't do the Atkins. I try to only have bread/alcohol/sugar a few times a week, but it's been hard lately! I've been fluctuating 3 lbs or so for the past month---I want to get past that and lose these last ten pounds!

Reading this thread, sounds like you all are doing great! Congrats!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Povvins, Semi:

Jack, I always love hearing that "you don't need to lose anymore" stuff!
 

---

Posted by knowjack on :
 
Yeah, it's great when people tell me that. I still think I look pretty much the same 'til I compare photos of myself pre-diet to those now. And it's great to NEED to buy smaller clothes, but it sucks having to PAY for them! :-)
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Jack, it must be hard doing the South Beach Diet vegetarian-wise. But then again, I think that any successful diet is really all about portion control. Atkins is a little silly advocating "eat all you want" as long as it's meat and fat. The one diet I always found to be sensible was the Zone. It allows you to eat from all food groups, but in proportion and in measured portions. I guess that's the one I still follow.

About the 3 pound fluctuation - I've been having the same problem. For the last couple of months, I've been fluctuating between 171 and 174. I think to get past that, I just have to really restrict my food intake for about 3 days. My goal is to get to a range of 165-170. (You naturally fluctuate within a 5 lbs range, I'm told).
 

---

Posted by knowjack on :
 
Semi, the hardest thing is just being bored, food-wise. Since I don't eat meat, the South Beach Diet can be a little hard, esp. during the initial "restrictive" phase.

I was skeptical about this, but one of the things the South Beach Diet proposes IS true. Since doing this, I find myself not wanting to snack, and I'm not thinking about food all the time. I mostly eat now just to keep my body fed.

Since I've done pretty well so far, I'll allow myself a craving here or there---I had pizza AND margaritas this past weekend---but I've been back into the "groove" this week.
 

---

Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
I've dropped 42 lbs since the beginning of the year. One thing I had to give up to do it, was alcohol. Damn, I'd kill for a margarita.
 

---

Posted by knowjack on :
 
I hear ya, brotha. It's rough...esp. since margaritas are just about the WORST drinks, diet-wise.
 

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Posted by knowjack on :
 
How's everyone doin'?

Finally, as of this morning, I'm down to 177!

Woo-hoo!
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Getting skinny, Jack! Seriously, that's good. I weighed in at 173 this morning.
 

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Posted by knowjack on :
 
Way to go, Semi!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
You guys are doing great!

I'm off shortly to do situps and a few butterflies.
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
What are butterflies? Do you mean swimming?
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
That's what I call that thing you do on the weight machine where you move your arms inward from an outward position. It may really be called something else.

Unfortunately our weight-machine thingie was broken when I went to the weight room last night. Parts are on order.

I did do 60 situps! Not bad considering I can't remember the last time I did situps!
 

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Posted by knowjack on :
 
way 2 go, Lash!

i should be doing some sort of excercise today after those margaritas last night!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Don't stress over those 'Ritas, Jackie! You can treat yourself to naughtiness after being so good!
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by MLLASH:
That's what I call that thing you do on the weight machine where you move your arms inward from an outward position. It may really be called something else.

Unfortunately our weight-machine thingie was broken when I went to the weight room last night. Parts are on order.

I did do 60 situps! Not bad considering I can't remember the last time I did situps!

---

That exercise is for the pecs, right.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Gotta keep those tits perky.

Just did 60 more situps! Jillikers, I'm gonna be abslicious!
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Flies are good for the pecs as well.
 

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Posted by Zombie STU on :
 
I weighed in at under 190 for the first time in years. The goal is to lose five more pounds by next month...
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Good for you STU. Keep it up, or down, as the case may be.
 

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Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
Congrats, STU!
 

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Posted by Zombie STU on :
 
I just wish I didn't have to file off my horns to do it...
 

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Posted by ferroboy on :
 
Crap, now Lash is trying to entice me back to the gym! I went twice over the weekend, but I really need to get back on a regular schedule again. What's really funny is that I've found that I sometimes lose weight while I'm away from the gym for periods of around a month. But that could be because muscle is heavier than fat.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Jillikers, I haven't checked into this thread in awhile! With my new job, I'm finding it hard to maintain a work out schedule--and I was doing so good over the summer. I trimmed my waste down nicely, but I have to keep it going and stay fit...

Stu- congrats!

Knowjack- welcome! Good luck!

Lash- Lookin' good! Good to hear you're working out too!

Semi- 42 pound? Jumpin' catfish! Nice!

EDE- a date auction? kewl!! You're gonna be great! Those lucky ladies...
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Good work-out this morning. Too bad I ruined it with Hallowe'en candy once I got to the office.
 

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Posted by ferroboy on :
 
I'm so fortunate that I don't actually like candy all that much.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I haven't been doing any exercise lately, but I was just recently noticing that I haven't seemed to put back on that un-sightly gut I worked so hard to get rid of! So, feeling all proud and pleased with myself, I went ahead and spent all of this past week just eating the worst food imaginable. As the days of this binge progressed, I found myself needing MORE per meal. The result: I'm sitting here now feeling like a Halloween pumpkin! It's just amazing to me how easily the unhealthy lifestyle can just worm it's way in and devastate so quickly. This weekend, we have stuff going on constantly, so I don't expect any sudden changes in healthful living to begin, but I'll tell you what...Monday is the start of a new week and a new month and I NEED it to be the start of a new regimine in my life. I know I'm capable, I just need to dive in. I hope on Monday I'll be back here posting to let you know what kind of workout I just did!
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Dean, it often takes setting a date to begin. For me, I had always worked out and been in good shape, but let myself go during the last half of my 40's. I think it had to do with being unhappy living in San Francisco, family problems, and not enjoying my work.

Then last year, I turned 50, my dad died, and I took a good look at myself and didn't like what I saw (physically and emotionally). I decided right then that I wasn't going to spend my 50's feeling sorry for myself. I realized that the job wasn't a problem anymore (as I had been in a new one for 3 years and it was going quite well), the family problems really weren't all that important in light of losing our dad, and well as far as S.F. goes, I realized I'm comfortable and that's not so bad.

So I decided that on January 1, I was going to turn myself around physically. I stopped drinking on Dec. 30, 2003 and started working out and watching what I ate on Jan. 1, 2004. Setting those dates worked for me. I've stuck to the plan and am really pleased with the results. I don't think I could have done it though, without addressing some of the emotional reasons for having let myself go. Not everything is perfect by any means, but I'm happy with myself and proud of how I've stuck with it. The self-esteem generated is self-perpetuating and keeps me going.

[ October 30, 2004, 10:22 AM: Message edited by: Semi Transparent Fellow ]
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
That's so cool, Semi. Thank you.

Well, I'm sitting here at the computer, after running several errands and a visit to the dentist. All I've eaten today so far is a banana. I want to go to the gym right now.

I just watched "Super Size Me" on video, and although I wasn't surprised to learn that eating only McDonald's 3 times a day for a month is bad for you, I do find the experience helpful as a reminder that junk food like that just does no good. Ironically, my kids currently own pounds and pounds of candy after Trick or Treating.

I'm in the mood for some lovely fresh spinach.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I actually went to the gym shortly after that last post! I took it fairly easy on myself because I didn't want to just jump in and try doing what I used to do. I know that I'd end up in big pain. So, I did a mild workout with plenty of stretching and ab work. Also, my current approach to food is to be sure and eat those bananas and satsuma oranges and apples along with reasonable amounts of other, regular meals.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I worked out yesterday, which felt really good, but a couple of friends and I went out to a bar and drank a bunch of wine and ate NACHOS~ Ay carumba, man! So today I'm feeling pretty sluggish. The 'chos were good, though.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I was supposed to go to a circuit training class on Tuesday, but I totally skipped it! So, my plan was to go to the one on Thursday, but I needed to sign up 24 hours before, but it's too late now. I'm considering just showing up and seeing what they do. I hope I do. I'll let you guys know what happens....
 

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Posted by knowjack on :
 
WTG, Sketch. You're doing great!

I have gotten really out of my walking every morning, which I need to resume.

BUT, this morning I was 175, my lowest weight yet since starting this diet! I'm sure I'll be back up tomorrow, but I'm gonna enjoy this moment.
 

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Posted by Beagz on :
 
All I know is that I actually lost a pound while I was at Wizard Con.

STILL not sure how THAT happened!!
 

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Posted by Pov of Nine on :
 
Don't talk to me about diets... not after LAST week.
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
I wasn't too careful last week and gained a few pounds. So this weekend I've been very careful. I weighed in at 173 this morning. I still have that elusive goal of 168.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Well, I weighed this morning and feared the worst, as I really hadn't been careful lately and have felt really bloated, but I weighed 186, so I'm still maintaining.

I need to use the cooler temps moving in to TRY to get into the 170s. But all those yummy holidays are coming up...!
 

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Posted by STU on :
 
I haven't lost any of the weight I gained when I was in Texas, and in fact I've gained an additional pound.

I need to stop eating!!!
 

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Posted by ferroboy on :
 
You guys all realize that losing weight doesn't necessarily mean you're in better shape, right? Muscle weighs more than fat. In fact, if you stay away from the gym for a while, you'll lose weight (temporarily) - because of less muscle and more fat. Keep an eye on your body fat percentage to get a better idea of where you stand.
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Realize all that ferroboy. But I work out 6 days a week and watch what I eat so that I build muscle but still lose weight.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
ferroboy, I've been saying that on this thread since way back in the beginning. My hope is that everyone here who is trying to improve their fitness and lose weight, is doing it in a healthy way.

Now, having said that, I have to report that I've been eating the worst possible foods lately, and too much. Last night, I went out to karaoke and had several drinks and went to Denny's at 2am. OMG, I feel like shee-ite today!

As per usual, I'll eventually turn this bad behavior around, and have a good run of eating right and working out. Not today. Definitely not today.
 

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Posted by matlock on :
 
I'm going to highlight this as my way of saying "good going" to all of you.
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Yay, recognition!!! Thanks Matlock.
 

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Posted by ferroboy on :
 
I'm around 175 right now, and that's down from about 185. I know I put this weight on in 1999 (before that I was something like 145-150 lbs). It's just very difficult to get rid of it. Even with muscle building I should probably drop another 10 lbs or so. I'm just not as dedicated as I should be.
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
Good luck everyone tomorrow. Don't worry about overeating one day. Just get back on track on Friday.
 

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Posted by Beagz on :
 
At this point, I'm just hoping to do what I did last year.

Believe it or not, I astually lost a pound from the day before Thanksgiving through January 2nd. Go figure.

Besides, after I've pigged out over Thanksgiving, I need something to lift my spirits. I was heavier after Thanksgiving (180) than I've been in over 6 months.

Luckily, I love spinach and mushroom salad topped with balsamic vinegar for lunch.
 

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Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
December is usually a washout and I just go with it. But now, back to business - or I'll have to buy new jeans.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I've been eating like it's going out of style ever since last month. I suppose I do that knowing that in January, I'll be hitting that gym ferociously. Still, it doesn't feel very good right now, despite the delicious food.
 

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Posted by Beagz on :
 
*sigh*

Well, I didn't lose any weight.
But, I guess one positive way to look at this is that I didn't gain any, either.

I just sorta ended up where I started.

Oh well, back to the drawing board. (So to speak!!)
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
My eating has been for s#!t lately.

Time to weigh in the morning and get serious again.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Ditto here. After I started working full-time, I blew all that hard work over the summer and starting slipping into old habits and not working out.

As of last week, I'm deadly serious again about staying in shape.
 

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Posted by the boy with UltraPowers on :
 
i'm hittin the gym again tomorrow !! 2004 was such a crap year for me, regarding excersize !!

i hardly went at all, and at some points, didn't go for weeks on end !!

i'm gonna make it my goal to go at least 3 times per week [ i'd really like to push that to between 4 or 5 times, really !! ]

and my first visit will be tomorrow morning, i'm just gonna work on the treadmill during January, and i wanna run for at least 45 minutes each session, and then finish off with sit-ups !!

and i shouldn't have any problems with having the correct music to run to either, since i've loaded over 500 dance song onto my iPod and i've even made some "running" PLAYLISTS on it !!

i want to make 2005 the year that i get the body that i've always wished i'd had !! and my deadline to have got it, is by July of this year when my summer vacation will be !!

and if we push each other, we should all reach our goals

Matthew.
 

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Posted by the boy with UltraPowers on :
 
made my start on excersizing in 2005 today

went to the gym, and ran on the treadmill for 50 minutes, then followed by 100 sit-ups ....

how's everyone else doing ??

Matthew.
 

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Posted by the boy with UltraPowers on :
 
i've been twice more to the gym since my last post !!!

on Thurday and today, i ran for 50 minutes and did 100 sit-ups !!!

i'm gonna go tomorrow morning also

my "iPod" full of great songs, really help with my running !!! i actually really enjoy it, the first 20 minutes are the hardest, then i sort of go past it ..... although by 50 minutes, i am ready to stop

Matthew.
 

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Posted by HighPriestess Viviane on :
 
Let's see, I do weight-steps for 50 minutes, dance for about 65 minutes, 30 minutes various excercises (squats, sit-ups, triceps work outs, leg crunches) squats are the worse...

I do this everyday and diet mildly, I'm going to hate going back to school, because I'm taking Movement for Actors (I learn to sword fight, yay!) but it's three hours and we were told that we never sit down and sweat like crazy...ugh...
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I finaly weighed this morning, weighed 189 so I was relieved not to have hit the 190s again-- barely. Now to take off that extra 5 or so pounds and get back to the safer mid-180s.
 

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Posted by Jorg-El on :
 
Well my diet has gone crazy on purpose. Trying to big as I can. Been eating lots since beggining of November. I am weighing 260 gained 20lbs in two months . Lots of milk, cheese, eggs, chicken, etc. Gotta say I am strong as a horse...been doing cardio twice a week though make sure all that fat doesn't give me a heart attack. Pretty happy with my progress but i will be back here next month when i cut my calories a little bit but will cut lots of fat out of it (no more milk, cheese, eggs...just chicken, tuna, salad)...and lots more cardio!

eat less run more...you guys are inspiring.

Jorge
 

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Posted by Jorg-El on :
 
btw, my cardio is mostly sprints...don't wanna burn too much calories with long aerobic jogging....but i do wanna give my chest/lungs a workout so i love sprints!!!

High priestess your workout is pretty much what my gf does everyday
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
I usually run and roller-blade near my house, so winter is a killer for my cardio work-outs! Getting to the gym takes too much time from my day it seems...

A few more months of winter and then I can back to my normal routine. Until then, I just have to fight to stay fit and keep eating right.
 

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Posted by the boy with UltraPowers on :
 
i'm really proud of myself [ so far !! ] as i'm really keeping to my excersize plan, of at least 3 visits to the gym each week [ in fact i went, 4 times last week ]

today i ran for 50 minutes [ and hit the 6km mark ] i'm slowly pushing towards doing 10km, as there is a charity run coming up in May, that i'm gonna do !!!

so i'm going to keep going a little longer each week, and then i should be okay, for the actual run .....

then i'll change my name to XS

Matthew.
 

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Posted by Sketch on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by HighPriestess Viviane:
Let's see, I do weight-steps for 50 minutes, dance for about 65 minutes, 30 minutes various excercises (squats, sit-ups, triceps work outs, leg crunches) squats are the worse...

I do this everyday and diet mildly, I'm going to hate going back to school, because I'm taking Movement for Actors (I learn to sword fight, yay!) but it's three hours and we were told that we never sit down and sweat like crazy...ugh...

---

That all sounds like really hard work, but super fun! I bet the time goes by pretty quickly!! You must be rock hard!
 

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Posted by Sketch on :
 
Matthew, I understand training for a marathon like you described is a GREAT way to stick to a routine and get really good results. I have never been anywhere near in good enough shape to try that. Best wishes to you on it!

I haven't been doing ANY exercise and I'm eating whatever the frunt I want. Not a great plan. However, if you anyone has read back (on this thread) to about this time last year, at my job, we have an annual fitness challenge where those of us who want to, put money into a pool, work out for 4 months, and whoever improved the most gets the cash! I do this every year, and last year I placed!!!! My good habits went away in the summer and fall, but now that the holidays are over, I will begin again. The date isn't set for my initial fitness evaluation, but as soon as I get that done (dread!), I'll begin the regime! I'm very comfortable in the gym; I know what machines to use and how to use them. I have the time during the day (I like to watch Ellen while I'm on the elliptical maching). I feel motivated. So, you'll be seeing plenty of posts from me!!
 

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Posted by Faraway Lad on :
 
HELP!!!!!!!

Gigi has put me on a diet. What can i do???????????????????????????????????


Mind you to be fair, shes on one too. We need to loose two stone each before we visit the USA.


HELP!!!!!!!
 

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Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
It will be over before you know it! And you can suffer together. It works better when both of you are cutting back, because one person isn't bringing junk food into the house for their own consumption. At least for me, even if they're "his" snacks, they wind up on my plate.

I was really good for two solid weeks, but got the winter storm munchies on the weekend.

I heard a show about putting animals on diets, and one woman said she lost 10 pounds, because she felt so guilty going for snacks while her fat, dieting cat was giving her the evil eye, that she just gave up the snacks.
 

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Posted by Faraway Lad on :
 
Thanks, FC. Maybe i need to get the dogs back from my ex and start walking them a bit.

So far so good, I have already lost just under a stone in the last four weeks. still two more to go tho.
 

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Posted by Sketch on :
 
What is a stone?

I was just NAUGHTY this past weekend. I consumed so many calories, I can't even think about it. Pretty soon, my exercise regime begins, so I'll start behaving soon, but I really shouldn't eat the way I did!! EEK!
 

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Posted by Faraway Lad on :
 
Dean a Stone is 14 lb. So i really should loose another four to be right for my hight. I'll settle for two though.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
That's GREAT, Far! Congrats to you!

I weighed in at 185.5 today, so I'm back in my normal range, hooray!
 

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Posted by Jorg-El on :
 
Alright guys today is Monday and I am starting the big weight loss. I ate my way thru fall and the holidays and January trying to get big on purpose. Went from 240 to 270...sadly it wasn't all muscle. The short term goal is to get back down to 240 without losing the muscle. The long term goal is 230...but I am not sure if i get much lower than that...225 maybe. (I'm 6'1" and muscular)

So the eating clean less fat and carbs with much more cardio starts today!!! (i have a cruise in 5 weeks i hope to lose lots before that!)
 

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Posted by Sketch on :
 
My fitness evaluation is tomorrow (Wed). I'm not looking forward to it. However, it is the kick start to my upcoming routine.
 

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Posted by Jorg-El on :
 
Let us know how it goes Sketch. I lost 4 pounds in one day. Amazing what eating less, running 4 miles, and working out can do to a body. heh.
 

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Posted by Sketch on :
 
Err...my eval is next Wednesday. That's totally cool because I am WAY busy this week and don't want to be sore, too. Lazy? Yeah.

Next week...it begins!
 

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Posted by the boy with UltraPowers on :
 
i've managed to increase my running to 7km !!! just got to push it to the 10km mark over these next few weeks [ before the charity run in May !!! ]

and also i need to do more weights / situps in the next 2 weeks before i go on holiday to MIAMI !!!

Matthew.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
You're a stud, Matthew!

I had my fitness evaluation today. I weigh 189 lbs. It's just a miracle that I've never broken 200. I was quite sick last week and only began to feel better on Sunday/Monday. (See my Emerald City Con thread for pretty much full disclosure.)

They pinched the fat at my stomach, chest and thigh to assess body fat %. I did 30 push ups in 1 minute, 45 crunches. The crunches were almost unbearable after my stomach troubles. The trainer let me have 2 breathers during my minute of crunches.

My sit and reach stretch measured at 12 3/4". Last May, I could reach to 17 1/2", so I've definitely tightened up since then (no surprise).

I'm actually looking forward to working out regularly again. I've been feeling pretty lousy and I know that food and lack of exercise have been the reason. Oh and drinking. I don't wanna talk about drinking right now. Well, except to say that at 38, I think I've done plenty of it! Sometimes I think I'm 21 still.

How's everyone else doing? It's weird to not have Semi around here nowadays...
 

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Posted by High Priestess Viviane on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Sketch Lad:

quote:

---

Originally posted by HighPriestess Viviane:
Let's see, I do weight-steps for 50 minutes, dance for about 65 minutes, 30 minutes various excercises (squats, sit-ups, triceps work outs, leg crunches) squats are the worse...

I do this everyday and diet mildly, I'm going to hate going back to school, because I'm taking Movement for Actors (I learn to sword fight, yay!) but it's three hours and we were told that we never sit down and sweat like crazy...ugh...

---

That all sounds like really hard work, but super fun! I bet the time goes by pretty quickly!! You must be rock hard!

---

The class is fun, but if your not a trained dancer (which I'm not) then you can have problems. Though, I do physical training so I don't poop out like everyone else.
 

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Posted by Jorg-El on :
 
Sketch good job man. Drinking sadly adds some weight. I just can't give it up on the weekends. Good luck Sketch.

Matthew jogging keeps you lean man good job. Miami? Oh yeah I live 5 hours away and only go when I alot less fat than I am right now. *sigh* Enjoy the hot model looking girls topless...or the stud sixpack guys whatever is your thing. There is enough of both.

I am down from 267lbs to 259 in a week. Cardio twice a day and higher reps less rest at the gym...and lots of chicken/brocoli. I only have 25lbs more to go!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Viv, When I was younger, I used to go out dancing ALL the time. I never ever had ANY training, but I thought I was good. Alas, as the years progressed, there was less and less dancing and I totally miss it. Anytime I do go out to dance with friends, I feel like an old man. Ah, the 80's and early 90's....

Good work Jorg-El! Keep it up.

Today I went to the gym for 30 minutes on the elliptical machine, some stretching, some push-ups and crunches. My stomach is really weak right now after last week's illness. However, the only pain I have is from Wednesday's push-ups. I'm going the right way!
 

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Posted by knowjack on :
 
Well, Friday was my birthday so I've eaten anything I've wanted this weekend--I'm gonna make myself eat better this week and stay off the scale until next Sunday!
 

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Posted by Jorg-El on :
 
lol, knowjack. Happy B-day. I ate for your bday as well. Pizza saturday night and arroz con pollo Sunday...lots of it. But Monday is a new day and we will work our ass off...and eat less.

Sketch pushhups are great man. I didn't go to the gym for about two years once and worked out at home with dumbbells. For chest I did nothing but pushups...may have been the best shape I was in. Pushups rock!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Today (Sunday) I did over half an hour of yoga, with a dvd we own (don't recall the title right now). I was amazed that I was able to do everything they instructed but I'll let you know tomorrow if I have aches. Naturally, I'm not as flexible as the people on the dvd, but in the past I've fallen down, gotten frustrated and wanted to quit. Tomorrow (Monday), I plan on getting in the gym for more of my usual workout.

Jorge, I plan on doing push ups, crunches and stretching everytime I work out, just as a normal thing. I'll be tested on how many I can do in May, so if I do them everyday, I'll HAVE to show improvement. It's good to have your testimonial about them!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Well, I didn't do any working out since that last post, but Valentine's Day was rather distracting. I spent all that day doing not one but TWO acrylic paintings for my wife. I think they're very ME, but they're more...painterly... than anything I share here. I've taken pictures of the paintings, I'll have to upload and post them. Anyway, working in the restaurant industry meant I was WAY busy on the 14th, followed by terrible insomnia, followed by fatigue. So, finally today, I feel somewhat normal again, but exercise just hasn't popped up as a high priority. Also, I've been on the Valentine candy diet the last couple of days, meaning I've not eaten much decent food. At least it's been a small amount of food...

Hopefully I'll be posting more inspiring/healthier news soon...
 

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Posted by Jorg-EM on :
 
Well in the last 12 days i've only lost 4lbs. down to 255. Got a cruise coming up in less than two weeks. Dropped calories a bit and increased each cardio session a bit. I was hoping to get under 240 but that doesn't look like it's going to happen.

May eat dinner much earlier. I once did no eating 5 hours before bedtime and it came off quick. May do that again starting...NOW.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
The kids have been home all week for Mid-Winter break, so I haven't set aside alone time for myself. I like being with them! I've also been working EVERY night this week, so the combo of kids all day, work all night is keeping my metabolism moving!

Okay, MONDAY is the new starting point for work-outs! Yeah...MONDAY!!
 

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Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
Is that the "No-Sleep" program you've been following, Sketch?
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
I've taken the last two months off from working out. Strangely, I still find myself getting up at 5:45 each morning, but I enjoy the leisurely slide into my day. I've managed to keep my weight below 175, but I do notice a decrease in muscle tone. Anyway, my holiday is over and it's back to the early morning workouts starting on Monday.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I'll be back to my 11 am workouts on Monday!

Nice to "see" you here, Semi!

Yes, FC, I do often run on a "no sleep" regime. Not the healthiest lifestyle ever, but sometimes inevitable. Sigh.
 

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Posted by Jorg-EM on :
 
I run a no sleep regime usually once a week. Last week I did it twice within 3 days and well...i felt like I was gonna die. Sleep is important. Sadly I work the graveyard shift for 8 hours/5 days a week. It can complicate things...but atleast I have more time to post!
 

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Posted by Jorg-EM on :
 
Lost two more pounds. Eating small meals about 4 times a day. working out...and running twice a day. all this work for a few measly pounds. bah! Give me a beer and a big burger...i like being fat! Ok sorry...had a breakdown for a second.

Looking at chicks with six packs partying in Ibiza is good motivation. I shall do that now.
 

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Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
Interview with Jack LaLanne - still going strong at 88! He talks a lot about the importance of exercise, especially lifting weights. He's a very inspirational person.

http://www.shareguide.com/LaLanne.html
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
I weighed in at 170 this morning.

[ March 08, 2005, 03:53 PM: Message edited by: Semi Transparent Fellow ]
 

---

Posted by Fat Cramer on :
 
Duncan might take another pound off you!
 

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Posted by Jorg-EM on :
 
Alright guys...since I started my big weight loss Feb 1. I've lost 20 lbs! Down to 250...and I was on a all you can eat cruise last week. Sadly I got sick the last day and I haven't really eaten much which explains why i didn't gain any weight pigging out on the cruise.

So I went from 270 to 250...can't wait for 240! Under 240 is when things get really hard for me.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Well, fudge it all. I got back into the 190s again but I'm putting the breaks on that crap el pronto, and not just for vanity's sake. The doc says the blood pressure and cholesterol are too high and has given me until July to get 'em down some or he's putting me on medicine like an old man!!! BAH!!!

Weight (Sunday): 190.
 

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Posted by Polar Boy v2.0 on :
 
A year after my divorse, I have lost 35 pounds. I want to get back down to less than 250 lbs. Before I started dating my ex, I was doing a lot of running races, I even had a marathon under my belt. I ballooned up to 310...now I'm at 275. Skinny me is looking good.

 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
I've decided enough is enough already for me too. Last summer I went above and beyond the call and got in great shape in August. Unfortunately a new job and winter really set me back.

As of yesterday, I'm officially back, although I've been hemming and hawing a bit for awhile.

Yesterday: Ate healthy, run on treadmill at lunch, weightlifting after dinner.

Estimated today: Eat healthly, run on treadmill at lunch, weight-lift after dinner. I *must* complete this today and every day this week--a fresh, solid start has always done me well in the past.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Oh, and in case anyone is wondering, eat healthy for me means eating meat and vegetables and cutting back on the carb intake. That also means 'eating less', as in not taking a larger portion that I really need and not snacking all day. Per se, I don't really 'diet'
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Time to get offline and get on the treadmill. Someone freaking shoot me.
 

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Posted by Polar Boy v2.0 on :
 
PUT THE BIG MAC DOWN AND WALK AWAY SLOWLY SO NOBODY GET'S HURT!!!
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Doing good so far. Went out drinking last night though and feeling totally exhausted...just can't give that up yet

Weight lifting is helping me get my upper body into tip-top shape, but I want to have a slim waste again. My goal is to have this by June.
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
I've been really bad about working out this year (since January). Most of it is due to laziness, but I think some of it had to do with Buster dying, and then getting Duncan (I still get up at 5:30 a.m., but Duncan takes a lot of attention in the morning.) I expect that once Duncan gets a little older and is trustyworthy (i.e., house-trained) I'll start up again. Nevertheless, I've not put on any weight. I still fluctuate between 173 and 175 (176 on a bad day).

I attribute my success in keeping the weight off to not drinking. (It's now been almost a year and a half since I had a drink.) But damn, sometimes I go home and think how nice it would be to have a martini or a Myers Dark rum and Coke. Argghhh, don't get me started ....

[ April 21, 2005, 04:03 PM: Message edited by: Semi Transparent Fellow ]
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I've been steadily sit-upping, treadmilling, weight-pumping, toe-touching, and side-twirling! At this rate I'll be in college shape come July!

Have discontinued the usage of salt and am drinking a glass of wine nightly, when able! I hear that also helps blood pressure & cholesterol!

In fact, it's time to go work out now, so I'm outta heeeeere!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Work out time again... the scales say 190 still, but I can already tell a difference in my body shape... I tend to shape up quickly... gotta keep at it...
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Quick 'net break before I go work out, then go out... I'm excited because I tried on a cute club shirt I couldn't have gotten away with last month, but now CAN get away with again! Yay!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
And get away with it I did!

Now to go work out again-- I'm starting to look forward to it. WEIRD!!!

So has everyone else all given up and stuff? I'm afraid you'll have to add 10 minutes to your workout as punishment!!
 

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Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
Jeepers! I feel like I've been captured by Nardo and used for his super-fatassing experiments! I must get back to this...
 

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Posted by Outdoor Miner on :
 
Went to my doc's for the regular checkup and found that I hadn't put on weight since the last visit.

Which isn't necessarily a good thing, but it isn't a bad one, either.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I haven't been working out at all! Boo! I have had a lot of distractions this spring, but that's really an excuse. I haven't ballooned up more than normal, though, I'm just not doing anything to improve myself. I'm eating like a normal person, not too much but not strict or disciplined.

I wish I was working out regularly because I do have minor body aches that come just from everyday life and sleeping funny, etc. If I was stronger those wouldn't happen.

I cannot understand why the fitness lifestyle isn't more addictive (to me).
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I've been good so I'm celebrating with pizza tonight-- no salt will be added.

And I'll do the workout sometime after, so it'll be okay.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Note to self:

File "Eat gobs of pizza then work out" under DON'T DO.

Uggggh. Situps aren't fun at ALL after pizza....
 

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Posted by Jorg-EM on :
 
Given up? Man I running right when I wake up for about 20 minutes. Have a protein shake...an hour after workout for about an hour...then go jogging with friends or gf.

Eating nothing but chicken&veggies twice a day...and 2 protein shakes a day. Getting about 200 to 230 grams of protein a day.

I'm down to 245 (started at 270). Starting to see my abs and obliques...nice. Love handles and belly button area are still fat. I have about another 20lbs to lose...don't think I can lose more than that.

Keep it up guys...i cheat on weekends (beer, chips/salsa...and restuarants) but go hardcore during the week. I'm going on another cruise in June...gotta look good.
 

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Posted by Jorg-EM on :
 
http://image42.webshots.com/43/5/54/61/296255461xnNwps_fs.jpg

Looking big just gotta lose the waist as Cobalt Kid said!
 

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Posted by Jorg-EM on :
 
Lash, I've noticed the major reduction in salt has helped show my abs more. I was retaining water like crazy. I am taking Cranberry supplement which helps reduce retention. Use potassium to cook and parsley (also helps negate retention).

The gay guys at the gym are masters at the six pack...they suggested the cranberry and parsley. Also told me to rub Prep H on my gut and love handles...haven't gone that crazy just yet. They also suggested I go to the suana more often to sweat out the retention...not sure if that was them hitting on me or being serious. But yes sweating helps! I don't have time for the suana sadly...barely have time to work out.

For you guys that like diet soda...check out Diet Rite. NO sodium, or calories, etc.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Wow, thanks for the tips, Jorg! I will check out Diet Rite for sure.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Working out going extremely well so far. Like Lash, I tend to shape up fast and get in decent ‘going out’ shape, but it’s pushing myself to get back to EXCELLENT shape that’s hard.

Already starting to get slim again and muscular up top. Dieting is going good – it’s more cutting back ‘how much’ I eat than really what I eat. All I can say is cottage cheese is a Godsend and is the perfect way to get a quick snack without eating a lot and actually being fulfilled.

Missed my lunch run yesterday, but worked out with weights at night.

Got a nice compliment that I’m looking ‘svelt’ (whatever the heck that means!) at the bar on Saturday. Moving along nicely, but really want to get back to where I was at the end of August last year, which was the thinnest I’ve been since sophomore year in college.

Keep it up, guys!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 

 

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Posted by Jorg-EM on :
 
lol@Lash. That isn't the club shirt is it?
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Nah! That's my "Hippie army of EDE" shirt!
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 


You're lookin' slim, Lash!

I need to take a new pic of myself and upload, I think. Especially when I'm at a slim/muscular period
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Well, the scale STILL reads 190, but I'm not stressing over it because I can tell a difference in how my clothes look & feel. I know some flab has converted to muscle, I can see it. So FEH to 190.

I've already worked out today and tanned, I'd like to get all cute-ed up and go out but A. It's storming outside and B. I have to work tomorrow.

Maybe I'll go anyway!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Oh, and Jorg, I'm drinking a Diet Rite as I type this! Pretty good and as much as I drink diet soda this should help drastically reduce my sodium intake! Also, it's caffiene free, another plus!

I tried Diet Pepsi w/ Lime, and it's good too! I think I like it better than Diet Coke w/ Lime.
 

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Posted by Jorg-EM on :
 
Diet Rite is good to mix with licor as well Lash. And I like all their flavors as well.
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
I've tried the cola, raspberry, peach, and kiwi-strawberry. Raspberry is my favorite.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Well, I'm still plugging right along with my daily workout deal, and the scale is *finally* starting to move downward... I knew it had to happen sooner or later.

today's weight: 188
 

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Posted by Danny Blaine on :
 
I wish I could find a diet drink that I like. I'm a pepsiholic.

I don't care for Diet Rite.
Has anyone tried Pepsi One? I don't like Diet Pepsi.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I love Diet Pepsi, Danny, so I guess I'm not very helpful. Have you tried Diet Cherry Vanilla Dr. Pepper? It's pretty good.

I decided the reason I wasn't losing weight fast is because I'm not eating diet-like enough! So I bought some salad fixings! It's salad all weekend for me!
 

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Posted by Beagz on :
 
Well, seein' as to how I'm sorta stuck around the 173-175 range, I'm joining a group just starting up at our church.

It's a Bible study to help promote weight loss and healthier living.

Not real sure how well that's gonna work, but I'll give it a shot. It starts at 6:00 on Monday nights, so maybe they just guilt you in to missing Monday's supper?
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I ate salad all weekend! And tonight.
 

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Posted by Jorg-EM on :
 
I've been stuck at 243 for a while. I don't want to eat less calories than i am right now. So i added more cardio...20 minutes before bed. It's worked i've dropped a couple pounds already.

Sadly i'm doing about an hour of cardio a day and my body is feeling it. My knees and lower back ache (i've never had a problem with those body parts before). I guess my body is trying to tell me i am turning 30 soon.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
These are my salad days!

Lettuce, mushrooms, red onion, bell pepper, mld banana pepper, olives and cheddar/jack cheese!!

For meat I have both pepperoni and grilled chicken strips perfect for dicing!

For dressing, I have either Italian, Bleu Cheese, 1000 Island or Honey Mustard! Lite or fat free, where available.

I had salad for lunch AND dinner.
 

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Posted by knowjack on :
 
I had "picked up" a little over the last month, and have gone back to the tried and true no bread, sugar, alcohol, etc...and I'm back down to 174. Wanna take off about 10 more, since the summer months are upon us and it's too hot for ponchos. :-)
 

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Posted by Princess Crujectra on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Cobalt Kid:
I need to take a new pic of myself and upload, I think. Especially when I'm at a slim/muscular period

---

I don't recall seeing this pic. Is it in the process of being uploaded ?
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Well, I'm finally getting the mindset back, that I have to work out if I want to be slimmer. In fact, that's really my only goal for now. Less tummy. I bought 2 new pairs of pants, 34' waist and they're pretty tight right there. Kinda hurts my stomach by the end of the night, so rather than buy a smaller size, I intend on slimming in order to fit them.

First of all with food, I've begun being disciplined again. Only healthy, good choices. I won't give up lattes yet, though. I like 'em strong and made from 2% milk, not nonfat.

Today (Thurs), I did a couple of sets of freeweights just for my arms. That was it. I plan on going into the gym again, regularly, and do the familiar exercises that have been effective in the past. I feel better even just thinking about wanting to incorporate this stuff into my lifestyle!
 

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Posted by knowjack on :
 
Woo hoo, 171 this morning!

Gotta be strong and stay away from the alkie-hawl this weekend!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
OMG, my arms hurt this morning! This is better, right?
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Hang in there, ya'll!



 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
I had Haagen Dazs' Banana's Foster last night. It's not on the diet, that's for sure, but well worth the guilt the next morning. It might even replace Dulce de Leche as my favorite.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
S'alright, I recently discovered the joys of Ben & Jerry's MARSHA MARSHA MARSHMALLOW ice cream.

Walked 3 miles today!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
And 3 MORE today!
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
That's a long way to walk for MARSHA MARSHA MARSHMALLOW.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
This week alone I've walked 12 miles, possibly more. Legs and butt are looking hot!

I'm shaping up but I still weigh more than I want to.
 

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Posted by Invisible Brainiac on :
 
Since January I've dropped from 190 to 170 pounds, and have recently managed to dip down to 167. My abs and chest are starting to firm up too, though the abs aren't visible yet. My "diet" is really just eating less and cutting down on junk food, carbs and fatty foods like some kinds of meat - but it's not easy, because my campus is surrounded by fast food joints.
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Invisible Brainiac:
the abs aren't visible yet

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Well what do you expect? You are INVISIBLE Braniac, after all. Congratulations. Those are very impressive results.
 

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Posted by Jorg-EM on :
 
I was stuck at 243 and now i got down to 241. Took a month and a half. I am going to a big drunken pool party tommorrow so thankfully i lost some more.

Sadly my arms are much smaller. Look like spaghetti now. But ohwell I need to lose weight. I am trying to eat healthy and not cut my calories down too low. But in the past that is what always worked and my arms are getting skinny anyways. I am thinking after this long weekend start cutting to lower calories. ohwell.

Good job you all.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Clocked over 15 miles last week. And 7 between yesterday and today, so this week I'm gonna shoot for 20.

Saw an acquaintance over the weekend who commented on my "weight loss". I delighted in informing him I had gained 15 pounds since he had last seen me. When he replied that I didn't look all pudgy anymore, I resisted the urge to smash a pie in his face and ignored him for the rest of the night!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
4 miles today, but I split it over 2 separate walks. That brings my total for the week to 11 miles(I count my weeks as starting on Monday)!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
last week's miles: Monday- 3.5, Tuesday- 3.5, Wednesday- 4, Thursday- 1.3, Friday- 3, Saturday- 2. Didn't walk Sunday so my total was only 17.3 miles. CURSES!

Today: 2.5 miles.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
last week's miles:

Monday- 2.5, Tuesday- 3.5, Weds- 2, Thurs- 2, Friday- 2, Saturday- 2, Sunday- 0.

Only 14. pitiful. So this week I started with a bang...

today: 5 miles.
 

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Posted by Jorg-EM on :
 
So as I stated above since I've been stuck at 243 for a long time I've cut my calories after 4th of July. I was not eating about 5 hours before bedtime...now I'm not eating 8 hours before bedtime (except weekends).

Down to 239! I've done it for two weeks and I noticed I am not really cutting calories just eating more in a shorter time. I've noticed my arms aren't as skinny anymore. Why? While my calories are a bit lower a day (about 400 calories) I've tried to keep my protein very high. As in never lower than a 170 grams but usually about 240 grams a day.

So most my calories are from protein. Carbs? Beans man. I love beans (being cuban and all) so I ate a can of beans atleast twice a day.

ofcourse this weekend I boozed and pigged out all weekend so I gotta get back to my schedule. Rum tasting party with all you can drink and eat on sunday didn't help. doh! But I gotta live man! I gotta live.
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
I lost 9 pounds over the weekend. I've been worried about something and had no appetite. I didn't eat at all on Friday, Saturday or Sunday. I don't recommend that as a healthy diet.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Past week's miles walked (with sporadic jogging mixed in!):

Monday- 5

Tuesday- 1 (sue me; it was raining)

Wednesday- 5

Thursday- 2

Friday- 2.5

Saturday- 1.5 (I was running late for karaoke)

Sunday- 2

Total: 19 miles; inching ever-closer to 20!
 

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Posted by Semi Transparent Fellow on :
 
I'm holding steady at 169. I haven't been under 170 since I was 25 years old.

[ July 29, 2005, 11:54 AM: Message edited by: Semi Transparent Fellow ]
 

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Posted by joeboy on :
 
Ive never actually looked at this thread before, and was slightly surprised to find that the posters were all men! So Im not alone then! Ah Well....So, Anyway, In an Attempt to Lose Weight Ive been walking to and From School 3 Days a week...I think in all the walk is maybe 7 or 8 miles? I dont really know the Conversion rate between Miles and Kilometers so I wont bother....In any case its a long way

Im considering giving up smoking aswell, but Im sure if I do Ill eat like theres no tomorow
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
last week's

Monday- 3.5, Tuesday- 3.5, Weds.- 2 (12-speed bike), Thursday- 2, Friday- 2, Sat- 1, Sunday- 2.

total: 16

need to step it up this week, add more bike...
 

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Posted by Invisible Brainiac on :
 
Nice work, everyone! Just have to keep the pace steady
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Don't let my silence here fool you-- I've logged more walking and bikeriding miles than I ever would have believed possible and I'm seeing some fun results.

My Mom, who has never worked out a day in her life until I started this year, is down to 115 pounds! She was dieting too, though, and I'm just working with what Ive got.
 

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Posted by legionadventureman on :
 
I thought you looked just fine and dandy regardless, bud
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Well, that was positively sweet of you to say, and thank you.

But I am bound and determined not to hit 40 and be anything less than perfectly acceptable to myself... and since I've resigned myself to the fact that I'm never going to be a waif model, I'm shooting for the other direction... and having quite a bit of fun with it too!

People begin to notice when you've got a rock-hard butt...
 

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Posted by legionadventureman on :
 
How soon do you want to get down the beach in your thong bikini?
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Let's just say I intend to be showing lotsa skin next summer. Possibly before then!
 

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Posted by legionadventureman on :
 
Kewl!
 

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Posted by Jorg-EM on :
 
Since my last post I got down to 238 and then it got ugly.

Too much partying (drinking alcohol/over eating) coupled with lots of aspirin/caffiene I was taking...resulted in an ulcer. I was bleeding internally not pretty.

For you guys that take in aspirin and caffiene...slow it down...or stop. It's horrible for your stomach.

Anyways I've been eating "healthy" but not clean. By this i mean lots of protein that is easy to break down instead of meat aka milk & eggs. Two things NOT good for your waist. Stronger than I ever have been (i love lifting weights) and running stronger than I have been in a while. I have to get back on track...but right now not really in the mood. Life and this ulcer made me forget about that 32 inch waist.

You guys keep losing weight!!!
 

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Posted by Owl Lad on :
 
My wife's advice to losing weight: "Just walk away from the table, people. Just walk away."

Seriously though. She's been working steadily on improving her health, so she can be a healthier mom, but living with a dieter/steady gym client certainly makes me feel guilty about my piggy ways. It also limits the number of treats gets to come into my house. I feel like I'm having to sneak around trying to catch a bite to eat.
 

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Posted by Joe-Boy on :
 
I have officially lost weight...hooray! I think its somewhere in the 25 to 30 killo range. thats a small child! I gave birth to a fat-baby.
 

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Posted by Jorg-EM on :
 
Yeah so I'm about the 245 range. Really have let myself go. Good news is I'm lifting weights hard and lots. Bad news is I got sick of cardio. May try walking a few times a week with the gf while we talk which is funner than running.

I can get down to 242 pretty easily...like not eat a ton of meatballs and spaghetti right before bed. But after that the running for months wasn't worth the couple of pounds.

Cardio is really the only way to lose weight...and not eating. Two things I don't really care for...well try to lift lots of sets hopefully will help me burn fat off.

You guys keep going for the slim waists!
 

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Posted by Joe-Boy on :
 
Ive lost another 5 kilos. hopefully Ill lose enough So I can fit into my Superboy costume for halloween.
 

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Posted by legionadventureman on :
 
Good luck to you, Joe-Boy
 

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Posted by Joe-Boy on :
 
Finally Lost all the intended Weight....the plan is now to have a 6-pack by my birthday (feb 25th) and Mardi Gras....in which Ill be on a float. In a Kid Marvel costume. Now if I can just figure out how to make a metal Legion Belt Buckle.

Have started Swimming laps....which'd be a lot easier if I had a waterproof Ipod, and all those nasty Pushupy, crunchy, Weight lifting things..

Still...No Worries eh?
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Great news! We're going to Maui in February!!!!
My family of five as well as another family of five. Naturally, I want to feel good and look good on the beach, but my friend (the other dad) is really interested in having his family go on some pretty major hikes on the last three days of our trip. So, right after we made this plan, I started thinking about the gym.

I've already been one time. I did about an hour or cardio on the ellyptical (sp?) machine and a full round of weight training on the nautilus machines. Plenty of stretching along the way, too. Days later, I'm still sore, but I know this is the only way to get in better shape.

I feel like I should go back in this thread and read some of my posts when I was really into working out. Inspire myself.

Oh yeah, next summer I'll be turning HAKK*COFF*40*KAFKAFKAF*COUGH!!!!! So, I want to look good and feel good when that landmark comes.
 

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Posted by chemicalking on :
 
If you really want to lose the pounds, then Weight watchers is the best way. That and lots of exercise. I lost 122 pounds on Weight watchers and have kept it off for over 2 years. LLL.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Wow, that's awesome!
I've always heard that WW is the way to go. My weight issues are pretty obvious. I eat junk and don't exercise regularly, so, when I do watch what I eat and work out on a regular basis, I lose weight and feel better. It's pretty much a matter of using common sense.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I ate all the cheese dip.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Did an hour on the ellyptical machine today. Then some stretching and crunches. Ate really lightly for lunch and dinner, too.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Two different people I work with asked if I was losing weight! That's a great sign. If people who know you ask such a question, it surely means things are going well.

I have been cutting the junk, but my dinners have been pretty much the norm. I have been drinking less, which would certainly count.

Earlier today, I did hit the gym again, and did time on the ellyptical and did some pec and ab machines. It was a quick, but worthwhile workout.
 

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Posted by Don Jorge del Oeste on :
 
I went to weight watchers and lost 50lbs! Sadly after I lost it I stopped going.

I'm fat as hell today. Working out but no cardio. Eating like a mad man. I need to get control!!!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Did a quick workout yesterday, and am about to go to the gym now.

Foodwise, it's been a "eat whatever I want" week or so, including Thanksgiving, so I really could watch that better.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Two days ago, I did a round of free weight training, which felt really good. I took Sunday and today off, so I'll jump back into it tomorrow.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I went on Tuesday, for a pretty quick workout.
Right now, I'm feeling kind of frustrated because even though I've been pretty good about hitting the gym, I don't see much of a change in my body, yet. I feel like I have to really be strict with my diet now, if I want results. That's no fun.

Also, I'm a bit hung up on a number...the number 200. The last couple of times I weighed myself, I've been exactly 200 pounds! I've never hit that number before, so it feels kinda bad. The funny thing is, I'll weigh myself one day, and I'll be 197, then, the next day I'll be 200 again. One time I think I was even 201, but I put the scale back on 200 and played the denial game.

200 pounds shouldn't be such a point of drama, but I can't help it. I must NOT be more than 200! More exercise and less food!!!!!
 

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Posted by Don Jorge del Oeste on :
 
Sketch, it's frustrating isn't? But you got it...more exercise less food. Maybe same amount of weight training but more cardio.

I'm 263lbs right now. But I am trying to get big. Insane I know. lifting weights like crazy. It's fun.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I whine a lot about being out of shape, but I seem to be unwilling to eat like a person who wants to lose weight....Still, I'm getting into the gym very consistently right now, and that's good. I do mostly cardio with some stretching and a few weight machines. I don't want to get big, I want to slim down, so I guess we have different goals, Jorge. Best wishes to you!
 

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Posted by Sketch Rhino on :
 
Heh! I haven't been to the gym since that post! I've been eating in a way I'd call "normal," not to many bad bad things, but no major emphasis on lean, clean foods. I don't think of Christmas time as being a more difficult time for eating right, there are just more options now. As always, it's about hitting the gym that brings me success.
 

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Posted by Ultra Jorge on :
 
I'm 273lbs. I've been eating lots on purpose to get stronger..."bulking up" but as usual gained way too much fat than I wanted. Next month I HAVE to eat much cleaner. This is the most I ever weighed and honestly feel like crap half the time. The things I do to build muscle. Much more cardio next month.

I am guessing many of you will start losing again next month as well.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad 1 on :
 
I'm so glad I have this thread as a record of some of my ABSURD thoughts on food!

"I don't think of Christmas time as being a more difficult time for eating right, there are just more options now."

HAH!!!!! I ate like a PIG everyday for a week before Christmas!! We had prime rib on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Oh, and don't be thinking that I just had a little.

I ATE ya'll.

So, now it's over and it's time for me to really try, because I'm goin' to Maui in less than 2 months!!
 

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Posted by Ultra Jorge on :
 
sketch, I've been eating like a pig since THANKSGIVING. I am going to try to eat a lot less this week so I can lots on the New Year's weekend. I am sick of eating. Have to pace myself.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad 1 on :
 
I'm watching what I eat, but haven't been to the gym at all. It does help. I had a terrible cold during the week surrounding New Year's Day, so I couldn't manage to do any exercise. I'm better now, but have begun a terrible cycle of staying up WAY too late at night and sleeping in WAY too late in the day. Then, I work evenings, so I wreck my gym time! It's always something.
 

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Posted by Ultra Jorge on :
 
I've been working out hard and eating clean for last two weeks...and yes that means cardio too! I've lost only 7 pounds this month. Trust me most of it is temporary fat I gained eating like a horse on purpose the last three months...usually i drop twice as much when I start dieting.

ohwell kids spring and summer is right around the corner...time for us to start working on the sexy look.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad 1 on :
 
I've been eating really healthy and way less and I'm HATING IT!!!! Still haven't been back to the gym, but my company's annual fitness challenge is coming back and I'm doing it again. My evaluation is on Feb 9.
 

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Posted by Ultra Jorge on :
 
I am hating it also Sketch. After a week of hard working out and running...tonight I am hanging with the guys! Pizza and beer!!! I can't wait. Oh, um, i mean I will eat celery while everyone else pigs out.

Sketch good luck on the fitness challenge. Is it like pushups, situps, etc?
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad 1 on :
 
They weigh us, determine body fat percentage by pinching with calipers, test heart rate before and after using a step for a minute (or three?), they measure our flexibility in a sitting reach, and yes, count pushups and crunches in a minute. Then, three months later, we're tested again. I placed one year (7th). Otherwise, I generally do enough work to improve, but never place higher. This year, I really want to try harder because I'm going to Maui next month and I turn 40 in July!

Egad.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad 1 on :
 
Went to the gym for a really quick workout today. Felt good. I ate too much last Saturday, but have tried to keep it clean otherwise. This is more difficult, the older one gets...
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I'm doing Weight Watchers.

I'm very determined to get lighter than I have been in years.

Almost done with my third week, and it's going very well. This "points" thing is prett easy to follow and stick with.

At my second week weigh-in last Wednesday, I had lost a total of 9 pounds.

I'll update my progress periodically here.
 

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Posted by legionadventureman on :
 
Good luck LASH, but tell me if Weight Watchers is just as good as Jenny Craig, money-wise...
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I have no idea.
 

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Posted by legionadventureman on :
 
Fair enough - just keep slogging away, dude...
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I'm in so much pain right now! I took a weight lifting class on Tue and Thur and I'm so sore, it's pathetic. I keep telling myself that this is the road to improvement, but all I want to do is lay down and sleep until the pain goes away. No pain, no gain. UGG!!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Guess what! I recovered! I went and did the same class again on Tue and it felt fine. I even felt a bit engergized throughout my night! Hey, this exercise stuff might have something to it!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Did the "paint the basement stairs" workout today. Wasn't that hard, really. I have my fitness evaluation tomorrow. Calipers!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
OMG, I just ate a whole pack of Pepperidge Farms Brussels Mints!!! I meant to only have one or two or three. I have to leave for the gym, to be evaluated in about half an hour! ....groan...
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Just got back from the gym. My fitness assessment wasn't really as bad as I'd been fearing.

I weigh 195! Whew! I still haven't toppled over 200 yet. (I'm 5'9" btw)

After pinching the fat at my chest, stomach and thigh, it is determined that I have 24% body fat. Not as bad as I thought. I need to be between 12 and 20%.

I did 3 minutes on the stair stepper and my heartrate (cardio test) was 104 which is average. I need to be between 97 and 103 for good and below 83 for excellent.

I did 64 crunches in a minute. This rated excellent! Yay me!

I did 23 pushups in a minute. I need to do 45 or more to rate excellent.

I did a sitting reach for the flexibility test, I measured at 12 3/4" I need to reach 14- 18" in order to get an average rating, so good and excellent seem like a distant goal.

In the past, I've left these tests feeling terrible about myself and in big pain, but today I feel hopeful about my chances of improving!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
You're a stud, Matthew!

I had my fitness evaluation today. I weigh 189 lbs. It's just a miracle that I've never broken 200. I was quite sick last week and only began to feel better on Sunday/Monday. (See my Emerald City Con thread for pretty much full disclosure.)

They pinched the fat at my stomach, chest and thigh to assess body fat %. I did 30 push ups in 1 minute, 45 crunches. The crunches were almost unbearable after my stomach troubles. The trainer let me have 2 breathers during my minute of crunches.

My sit and reach stretch measured at 12 3/4". Last May, I could reach to 17 1/2", so I've definitely tightened up since then (no surprise).

I'm actually looking forward to working out regularly again. I've been feeling pretty lousy and I know that food and lack of exercise have been the reason. Oh and drinking. I don't wanna talk about drinking right now. Well, except to say that at 38, I think I've done plenty of it! Sometimes I think I'm 21 still.

How's everyone else doing? It's weird to not have Semi around here nowadays...

---

Wow, it's interesting to compare to last year.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Eep! This is becoming Sketch Lad's fitness blog...

Anyway, I did an hour on the ellyptical today, burned 1000 calories. Did a little stretching after. Whew! It's starting to feel good instead of torture!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
More from me!

After a weekend of pretty much *bad* behavior, I went to my class in the gym and had a difficult time doing all the exercises. Boy, it shows if you miss the gym for a few days....

Glad I went, though.

Went on to create a fat-tastic Valentine's dinner! New York steak with mashed potatoes and spinach with sparkling wine. Vanilla ice cream with sugared strawberries and whipped cream. Yeah, pretty sinful, but hey, it's Valetine's Day. Oh yeah, gave the kids yummy candy which I helped them snack on. I have some work to do.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Been eating really light and did my class again today. I leave for Maui on Sunday!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Today's weight: 185

Total pounds lost: 22


So I'm back on this thread and the story can be told.

Early 2005 (as documented here) I resigned myself to being content with 185 pounds. Then around April/May (also documented here) I began daily miles-long walks, finding myself in the upper 180s-lower 190s, but not really minding.

Then I got kind-of silent here later on in 2005.

That's because after the time jumped forward, and it got colder, and the treadmills in my apartment broke down (only recently got repaired, too), the walks stopped dead.

But the eating continued, unabated... and even increased.

So long story short, before I knew it, I was a whopping 207 pounds.

Now, March of last year, my Mom started Weight Watchers. She was only 148 pounds, but being that she's so short, that was really big for her. She dropped all the way down to 113-115 pounds (and is still there), and looks years younger (she was also my walking buddy before winter kicked in).

So then, distressed about my weight, and realizing I didn't really have anyone else to do it, she started in on my weight gain and how bad I was looking.

She was right.

And I had tried my usual round of crazy diets, and nothing was working, and I couldn't commit to any of them because they were so awful.

So finally, after seeing how doughy and awful I looked in Christmas pictures, I told her January 1st I wanted her to help me do this Weight Watchers thingie.

I started on January 3 with her guidance.

Today is day 2 of my 8th week. 22 pounds down, that's a smidge over 3 pounds a week.

And I ain't stopping here. This diet is WAY too easy, fulfilling, and even fun. I eat all the frickin' time and the weight has plummeted off. I even have my friend at work (also my primary party buddy) on it. He lost 5 pounds the first week and is nearing the end of his second. The two of us have inspired our other work friend, who is making a trial run of it this week.

The 170s is firmly in my sight and I know I'm going to get there now. It's been a mighty lOOOOOOng time! Got tons of cute clothes waiting to be worn... *giddy!*

And all this withOUT the excercise.... once Spring kicks in and the walking starts back again--- Maybe I should shoot for the 160s. That's my High School territory!
 

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Posted by legionadventureman on :
 
What poundage is usually classed as overweight, LASH? I'd seen a few photos of you over the months and you didnt look anything but skinny (to me, at least)
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
It's all relative, really. No one guessed I weighed over 200 pounds, yet I couldn't fit into my cute club clothes anymore. And now that I've lost so much, everyone realizes I really WAS big.

Thank gawd Mom was paying attention.

Plus I didn't post any pictures during when I had really packed it on.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
This week's weight: 183

Pounds lost: 24


*eyes 70s gleefully*

It may not happen next week, because generally I've been losing 1-3 pounds a week, but I predict in 2 weeks I will be in the long-unseen land of the 170s.
 

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Posted by legionadventureman on :
 
Are you very tall, LASH? Coz being overweight might vary according to your height...Otherwise, it's good that you are approaching the end of the rainbow and about to go for the gold!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Wow Lash, it's great that WW is working so well for you. Come on! Get into those 170's!!!!

While on vacation, I ate and drank pretty much the same as normal, but I was way more active. Swimming and snorkelling and generally playing in the ocean is quite a workout (which of course is rewarded with super-relaxing laying in the sun). We also took two major hikes, something I don't normally do very often.

I'm definitely going the right way with fitness, but now that I'm back home, I'll be kicking into a higher gear with healthy food and exercise. We took a lot of pictures on vacation, many with my shirt off, so I can look directly at what I want to remove from my body. Of course, it was hard to look at those other people on the beaches with their awesome physiques. I want to be like them! I do feel good about being tan. Not quite a fitness accomplishment, but it does help me with my self image and inspires me to work on continuing to improve.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Took a LONG walk today and jogged for part of it. My lunch wasn't the healthiest ever, but it was not a ton of food, either.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Finally got back into the gym. Felt really good. I've been eating pretty well recently.
 

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Posted by legionadventureman on :
 
Do you look anything like the hottie next to the Dream Girl look-alike, SL?
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Due to circumstances, I was unable to make my weigh-in last week, and then I got all feeling like I deserved some treats. I didn't go too too crazy, just a few sweet Pepsis here (GAWD, they were good!), some shrimp fajitas there, and a little Olive Garden too... and didn't even really keep up with my points at all last week.

Today's weight: 183. Again.

So, in that 2-week period, I lost nothing but more importantly (especially considering my "treats") I didn't gain anything either.

But the "break" (along with LOTS of attention last weekend!) has revitalized my desire to get into the 170s, and I'm back on it full-force.

When I'm done eating today, I'll be a full 10 points under my daily allowance. Gonna try to do that-- or close to it-- all week.

I really, REALLY wanna hit 179 next week!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I've only lost two pounds even with all the exercising I've been doing, but I attribute that to gaining muscle. I know there's less fat on me.

However, I must say that this week, I've been really busy so I haven't been getting into the gym and I've had some very yummy food. Sure doesn't take much to follow the un-healthy lifestyle.

LAM, that picture is Christina Aguilera and Ricky Martin made up to look like Dreamy and Star Boy. Yeah, I wish I could say I look like that. I mean, I don't hate the way I look, but now that I'm closing in on 40 years old, I'm finding it more difficult to take a great picture. When I was younger, I *loved* getting my picture taken.

.........sigh.....
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
SO since I rededicated myself this week and am anxious to reach the 170s, I've decided to forego WW's usual once-a-week weigh-in, and weighed this morning. 181! So VERY close!

My "official" weigh-in is Wednesday... 4 days to drop 2 more pounds... I'll check again maybe Monday...
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
So I did another little unofficial weigh-in this morning; still at 181. Stupid late-Saturday-night excursion to Taco Bell! Well, I subtracted it out of my weekly "bonus" points, and it wasn't enough to make me gain, but I haven't lost anymore other than the 2 pounds.

It's looking like the 170s will elude me again this week, unless I drop 2 more pounds by Wednesday morning. I'll hold out hope; I was good today and I'll be good tomorrow, we'll see what happens!

Meanwhile, I'm wearing jeans and shirts I haven't worn in a few years!
 

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Posted by Mattropolis on :
 
We had a "Biggest Loser" contest at my old job (I just moved to Tampa a couple weeks ago). I came in second place. I've lost 20 pounds but still want to lose about 20 more.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Congrats Matt!

Today was the real-deal weigh-in:

179! I DID IT!

That's 28 pounds lost since early January, and that's officially the lowest I've been in years! Goal for next week: 177, 30 pounds lost.

When I reach 174, my daily points drop by 2. Eeeep!

Jillikers! Do I dare dream of the 160s? That'll be, like, High-School size!

EDIT to add: Now that the apprehension of reaching 179 is over, I'll be returning to proper once-a-week weigh-ins, so... see ya next week!

[ March 22, 2006, 05:08 PM: Message edited by: MLLASH ]
 

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Posted by legionadventureman on :
 
Those spandex g-strings you used to wear must be awaiting you any time now, LASH...Good going on your weight loss!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Today's weight: 178

So I didn't hit my 177 goal, but I can hardly complain about losing 29 pounds in just under 3 months; and weighing one-seventy-anything is pure joy!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Geez, I need to call Weight Watchers!

I've been working WAY too much lately, so I've been REALLY tired and the workouts slacked off. But today, I lifted free weights and did yoga along with a dvd we have. It was pretty hard.

I realize that I'm going to have to really eat super healthy to actually lose fat and do tons of cardio exercise. It's just that the weight training feels so good. I'm just afraid I'm going to get more muscular and still have body fat, so I end up just...beefy. I'd rather be slim and toned...

sigh
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Lash,
Great job on the weight loss! I hope you feel good as well as look good!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Dean, I've actually been feeling REALLY good-- been eating more veggies than I ever have (they're low in points).

Green beans, mushrooms, peas, carrots, corn, okra, pinto beans, northern beans, zuchinni, lima beans etc. I just buy 'em canned and spice 'em up with pepper or fat-free butter spray. Yum!

Been drinking V-8 regularly. Once you acquire a taste for it, it's delicious. Loaded with vitamins (and sodium, so beware).

Fast-foodwise, I'm pretty much sticking to Subway's turkey breast & ham sandwich and Taco Bell. Wendy's chicken BLT salad and chili are also low in points.

I'm in my 13th week of this now; it's the easiest diet I've ever been on. Actually, I don't consider it a diet anymore, it's just the way life has to be for me.

Plus they give you plenty of cheat room, and I'm the first to admit I haven't been 100% faithful to the plan. But I've easily been 90% faithful. The results are undeniable. I'm wearing clothes I figured I'd never wear again.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
It's way late on Wed night for me (early Thur am), but today around noon, I did my regular workout.

I've figured out that I really need to eat WAY better if I expect more weight loss results, but the regular exercise is really good for me since I seem to keep eating the junk I wanna eat. Lash's WW testimony has me really curious/interested though.....
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Yesterday, I did 20 minutes on the ellyptical and did pushups and crunches and some stretching.

Then, I went to the Safeway deli and got 4 fried chicken drumsticks, a medium order of chow mein, a Coke and a box of cookies, from which I ate 2. I was stuffed, so I skipped dinner. Went to work, made plans with friends to go out to karaoke (see my "Judge Your Karaoke Performance" thread), so I knew there'd be drinking. Ate a mixed greens salad and drank some red wine. Got the bar, and over the next couple of hours drank about 5 Bud Lights.

Made the 20 minutes on the ellyptical seem like a waste of time, but I keep telling myself that it's better to do those 20 minutes, then go pig out, than not doing the 20 minutes and then pig out.

I just shouldn't pig out. But I can't NOT somehow!!!!

Today, I don't plan on going to the gym, but I plan on doing yoga with a dvd.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
My stock on the scene has just about gone through the roof since the weight-loss. Will weigh-in tomorrow and report here.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I haven't gone to the gym since I last posted. The food intake has been what I'd call "normal" with a slight increase in convenience food because the kids are home for spring break.

Congratulations to Lash!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I'm about 177.

Thurs and Fri I walked 2.39 miles (3.2 miler per hour at 45 minutes) on the treadmill. Will repeat today.
Figured it was past time to add excercise to the diet mix.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Did my regular gym thing today. Just keeping track. I'm going to the gym again tomorrow, and will do that weight lifting class. It's always pretty challenging.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Did 20 minutes on the ellyptical and the weight training class.
Trying to be consistent.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Did 20 minutes on the ellyptical and the weight training class.
Trying to be consistent.
 

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Posted by Lad Boy on :
 
I gave up Coca-Cola and all carbonated, fructose-sweetened caffeinated beverages.

The caffeine withdrawal has not had any f9*^^g effect on me, you miserable *&&%(%^%#. What in the hell are you staring at?
 

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Posted by DrakeB3004 on :
 
You might want to ween yourself with some Diet Coke...
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Last summer, I gave up abusing espresso. I used to have two or three double lattes a night, which was great while I was busy at work, but inevitably, later, I'd drink too much wine or beer or booze to counteract, then not sleep well. It wasn't workin' for me. So I quit. I wasn't grumpy or head-achey or anything, but I missed the oral sensation and the flavor. On occasion, I have some coffee now and then, but it's a LOT less than before.

I seem to be stubbornly eating whatever the heck I want lately. This isn't the best idea, since I supposedly want to make all these changes fitness-wise. At least there's the exercise.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
OK, I've been avoiding this thread for a long time, and I'm glad to annonce my return. Because I've reached a major milestone.

Although over the last two years I've made continual attempts to stay in shape, it just hasn't really happened. For every step forward, a few weeks later it'd be a step back. When I was in high school, I was in incredible shape--I played hockey and baseball and worked out everyday. Even in my early years of college I was like this (I have a photo of myself of my junior year of college where a photography professer told my friend I couldn't be used in a project b/c I looked 'too model-ly'. But alas, having a g/f for a few years (re: no genuine concerns/worries about other females) and waaaay too much beer drinking caught up to me. Plus, my diet never changed in that I never ate healthy EVER, and my metabolism was changing as I got older. In the last few years I had come to really hate my appearance, and felt I was way too overweight. On the occassions I looked OK, I was really just hiding it.

Well, on January 15th that changed. I made a new effort to lose weight, and did new things I've never done before. First, I dieted, and I dieted as absolute hardcore as I could. My brother and I began a diet that we got from a baseball player on the Cardinals--eating a chicken cutlet, grilled in a frying pan (no butter or olive oil or anything) on top of lettuce. Nothing else, with the exception of various beans, spinach and green beans. Later, we started to add other good vegetables (my brother is like a guru of 'what's good for you' now). For the daytime I began eating four times a day with minute helpings--small enough were it was quick. This consisted entirely of unsalted cashews, cottage cheese, yogurt and occassionally other small things. Never any candy, never any carbs. I did this all five week days, but allowed myself Saturday and Sunday. I also used to go out drinking about five times a week. I've narrowed it down to two, Friday and Saturday, although I allow myself one addition week night to go out for a few beers (this also saves me money, since my brother and my friend Jenn and are all moving into a house [not buying] in June).

That was one thing. The more important was that I began doing a 25 minute cardio workout everyday. A 10 minute run on the treadmill, three and a half of which were full sprints, followed by a ten minute run on the ellyptical machine and then a five minute hard walk on a heavy incline on the treadmill. I've never worked out with this much cardio since I played hockey in high school.

Even more, I began dong five sets of ten push-ups each day. I always knew but really never realized the full extent push-ups can change your body. Mine finally changed.

In recent weeks I've changed so much that I've begun incorporating other things, like shoulder and arm weight exercises (military press, strait bar curls), as well as dips.

The results: since Jan. 15 I have lost 30 pounds, gone down three notches on my belts and generally look way better than I have in YEARS. I'm down to the same weight I had in the early years of college and actually approaching what I weighed my senior year of high school. My stomach is flatter (not completely flat yet, still got some ways to go), and I've lost all the fat I had on my chest, majority of my back, etc. My face even looks different. And to be honest, I haven't felt this good in a long, long, long time.

Today is a milestone for two reasons: its officially '30' pounds and I've begun adding two days of weight-lifting in instead of five strait days of cardio (I work out during my lunch). In other words, I'm gonig to try and shape my body in other ways instead of 'get slim or die trying'. You know, its like they say. I feel so good now and get such energy from working out that I'm making progress all over: I'm moving in with my brother and one our best friends to a house we're all going to rent in June, I'm stepping up at work and trying to create new business accounts (re: big bonus money), and I'm managing my money better than ever. I really honestly think its from working out and getting a bit of fire under me. And the traditional way I measure my looks (girls hitting on me) has never been better. I feel so relieved, like to say "I'm 25 dammit, time to reclaim my post-college life!".

So, I'm glad to check in to the Dieter's thread! And from the looks of it, everyone else is doing great too!

Now I can't wait to see Pov again, looking all slim and stuff! I might even post pictures, but the only ones I own are the ones where I'm all drunk and silly in the bar...
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Good to have you here, Cobie, and congratulations on your great results.

Keep it up and keep posting!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I haven't been to the gym for a week, but I've done a little bit of free weight lifting at home. After last week, I realized that food just has to be watched closer, so I've been very good this week.... well...until last night. I had some nachos, but at least I didn't eat 'em ALL, my friends helped!
 

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Posted by mechana on :
 
Does anyone have any workout music recommendations? Something upbeat for cardio?
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I always used to enjoy Madonna's Immaculate Collection for working out, but nowadays I just listen to the music you can plug into on the machines at the gym.

Lessee....I've been to the gym every day this week (Mon, Tue and Wed so far). I'm really trying to eat very lightly. too. I'm feeling really tired from it all right now, so tomorrow (Thur) I'm going to take it easy. I'll be working with a personal trainer on Friday, then attending a Fiesta that night, so I'll be sure to post how that day goes....
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
So, last Friday, I met with the personal trainer and what we did was design a new workout regime for me. It includes a LOT more emphasis on free weights and doing cardio AFTER lifting. I've done the new workout a couple of times now and I do find it very challenging but I can tell it will make a difference.

I've been eating much lighter, overall, but I've also had a couple of bad meals. I still like to eat what I wanna eat....

The end of my company's fitness challenge is coming. I'll be retested on May 17th. I'll post what happens....
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Last night, I worked til 10ish, then ate Mexican food (Oixacan style...I'm sure I spelled it wrong, it's pronounced "wah-hock-un"). That food is so delicious and clean and lite and a lil spicy but not too much. Then, I went to karaoke and had 4 Bud Lites, which really are less filling. Got home pretty late, came to post here, then had a terrible night's sleep.

So, I rolled outta bed at the crack of noon and immediately began to talk myself out of going to the gym. The little red devil over one shoulder kept saying, "Don't go to the gym! You're tired. You deserve to rest." But the little white angel over the other shoulder said, "You know you should go. You need to make up for that naughty behavior."

The angel won and I gathered myself together to get to the gym before 1. (See, we have a limit on our membership, we can't use the gym between 1pm and 9pm. It kinda makes me feel like a second class citizen, but I get over it and just get myself there before 1 and try not to stir the pot....) I did my regular ellyptical machine warm up and then the free weights, but I skipped the leg exercises. I just couldn't keep going. Did my stretching and ab work.

I'm really feeling good about my fitness, but I'm even more annoyed with the fat that remains. It should be GONE now!!! (Wishful thinking....)
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I've been working everyday since that last post, so I've been very busy. I'm trying to remember what workouts I've done since.

Skip to yesterday....Two friends and I took a long walk in the sunshine (about 3 miles), then, after the walk, we went to where there's this stadium style seating which are pretty much bleachers made of concrete. I'd say there were about twenty five steps from top to bottom, but they're really big steps, so double it and call it 50. We proceeded to run up and down. I did it at a sprint and was able to go 6 times, then, I was shaking and getting dizzy, so I stopped. One friend went two more times than me and the other friend went 10 times! Whew!

In exactly one hour from now, I'm going to the gym to have my end-of-challenge fitness evaluation. I'm feeling pretty positive about it, but now that it's over, I'm wishing I'd tried harder than what I've posted here all these past few months. I wish I'd not given in to the temptations of bad foods, etc. Oh well, I'll definitely have an improvement.

I'll post when it's done.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
Just got back from the gym. My fitness assessment wasn't really as bad as I'd been fearing.

I weigh 195! Whew! I still haven't toppled over 200 yet. (I'm 5'9" btw)

After pinching the fat at my chest, stomach and thigh, it is determined that I have 24% body fat. Not as bad as I thought. I need to be between 12 and 20%.

I did 3 minutes on the stair stepper and my heartrate (cardio test) was 104 which is average. I need to be between 97 and 103 for good and below 83 for excellent.

I did 64 crunches in a minute. This rated excellent! Yay me!

I did 23 pushups in a minute. I need to do 45 or more to rate excellent.

I did a sitting reach for the flexibility test, I measured at 12 3/4" I need to reach 14- 18" in order to get an average rating, so good and excellent seem like a distant goal.

In the past, I've left these tests feeling terrible about myself and in big pain, but today I feel hopeful about my chances of improving!

---

So, after all these months of working out, eating okay sometimes and poorly others, I have to admit that I'm underwhelmed with the results of today's assessment.

Today, I weigh 194. A ONE pound loss. Hmph!

My three minute cardio step test resulted in a 92, which is a very good improvement over last time's 104.

I did 62 crunches in a minute....2 less than last time! Wha?

I did 35 push ups, 12 more than last time.

At "sit and reach" I went to 15 1/4". Last time I reached 12 3/4" so that was an improvement.

When they pinched me with the calipers (which hurt) my body fat figured to 23.5% I've lost half a percent of body fat!!! Big friggin deal!

I actually can't believe it. I've been trying all these months to improve. I look slimmer than before and feel better, but my testing just didn't show it....much. Makes me feel like it hasn't been worth it.


Bah!


I guess it's the food.


I dunno.
 

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Posted by walkwithcrowds on :
 
Hi Sketch Lad.

We don't know each other and so I don't know if it's my place to say this or not but:

You said you look slimmer and more importantly you feel better. A lot of these "TESTS" they give you are really nothing more than scare tacticts to get you to join up at their gym.

No one is perfect and this "IDEAL" that we are all force fed is only to make us feel bad about ourself and line the gym owners pockets.

At the end of the day are you happy with you? Do you feel better in yourself, both physically and personaly? You already said that you do. Take pride in that and in yourself. You are doing really well, keep feeling good about yourself and don't listen to the Steroid Squad. Do it in your own time, at your own pace, because YOU want to and you WILL get there.

Good luck mate and keep up the god work.

You really are doing well.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
walkwithcrowds,
Thank you for the words of encouragement! Believe me, almost everyone I know has heard my fitness challenge results and have offered me similar well wishes. I am not happy about it, and I'm the kind of person to say so.

Honestly, the testing done at my gym is by no means perfect, but they do the best they can. I'm not disputing their methods. There are a couple of things going on...

1. I just haven't been able to stick to a good healthy diet. I'll have days when I eat very clean lean foods only, but there are days when I'll eat the worst stuff you can imagine like McDonald's, etc. I also don't want to give up drinking alcohol. I like my wine and beer and cocktails. This lack of discipline with food is my #1 explanation. I should probably try Weight Watchers like Lash did.

2. I'm getting older. I'm 39. The human body wants to age now, not rejuventate. I'm working against the clock....which leads me to my next issue....

3. I'd have to work a lot harder if I want better results. There are people who were doing 3 hour workouts all season. I was talking with a friend who was doing such intense workouts, I would have fallen to pieces if I tried.

This whole thing has been an eye opener for me. I really did expect better results, but the thing that I know is that I did try. I began to make changes that are good for me. I just need to keep it up and not give in and continue doing the right things instead of the wrong things. It's not easy, but it's worth it.
 

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Posted by walkwithcrowds on :
 
I know what you mean about the "How can they do that" factor.
There was a show on the TMF Channel a while ago, it was another one of those "TOP 100..." shows. This one was the top 100 Best Bodies. There was a lot of the "usual suspects" from this kind of thing - Britney, Brad and the like, but there was a lot of atheletes and sport stars as well.

Watching it I'm thinking to myself "It would be really cool to look that good" and the glimmer of self motivation started up. But then I listened to them talking about their daily routine...

They would get up at, like, three in the morning, exercise for three hours, go running or jogging for an hour and THEN come back and exercise for ANOTHER HOUR to "cool down"??!!

I get up in the morning put the telly on and pick my nose for half an hour.

So while it WOULD be nice to have the perfect body and a rippling six pack I think I'll stay happy with my chicken legs and protruding rib cage.

[ May 18, 2006, 04:09 AM: Message edited by: walkwithcrowds ]
 

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Posted by Invisible Brainiac on :
 
Yeah! I completely agree, walkwithcrowds. The effort it takes to look THAT good is something not everybody can afford. I mean, I certainly can't afford to spend half ym day exercising.

And you are making changes for the better, SL. That's what counts.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Just thought I'd add a late night update. I haven't been back to the gym since I posted about my fitness evaluation results. I suppose there are some sour grapes involved.

I did go outside for a workout recently, though. I suppose I'm not giving up on exercise and eating right, entirely. The street I live on is on a hill, so it does take a bit of effort to walk up it. Recently, my 13 yo son and I went up the hill, then up even a steeper hill, then over a bit, then down some stairs back, but before leaving the stairs, we did some up and down reps on them. Then we did the same with some more steps. Then we walked home. He's quite athletic, so this workout was nothing to him, but it was very good and tiring for me.

Tomorrow, I'm going to the gym with 2 friends, so it should be pretty fun and beneficial.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Aw, I didn't go to the gym. I've been doing the finishing touches on painting the house. If anyone recalls, I've posted that I've been painting my house. Yes, this is the third summer! BUT, in two days, I did some very important final coats in places that were extremely difficult to put a ladder. I have very little left to do...finally.

It's actually a really good workout. You use lots of different muscles in the brush strokes as well as keeping balance on a ladder.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Since I last posted here, I haven't done ANY kind of exercise. In fact, I went ahead and did some GNARLY eating binges. I know that I like to eat when I'm tired.

So, after having enough of that, I decided to pull myself together. On Sunday I had a nice bike ride with my wife, then, that night I rode my bike to work. It took 20 minutes. It's something I should have been doing for a long time now, but I've finally decided to try and make it a regular thing. It means allowing extra time to dress and groom myself once I get to work, but otherwise it's very invigorating. The ride home was even quicker (at about 11pm) since there was no traffic.

My legs ache today, though. But I'm glad I did it.
 

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Posted by walkwithcrowds on :
 
Good to here about you doing the Biking to work thing.

I did that for a while, though not for reasons of fitness but because I'm bloody lazy. I walk to work and I figured that if I got a bike I would be able to leave the house about ten minutes later - yay an extra ten minutes of sitting on my behind!

Saying that, I DEFINATELY did notice myself getting fitter. It's downhill going to work and (Duhh!!) uphill back. For the first few times I found it quite hard going coming back but after a few weeks I was doing it easily.

The main reason I stopped is because of other road users, in cars and vans. They are REALLY rude and aggressive. I constantly had cars revving their engines and swerving in towards me as they went past. I assure you this was not because of any bad road etiquette on my part - I kept to the side of the road, followed all traffic sign and regulations and I still had these morons thinking it was funny to terrorise me. So I stopped.

I also live in a slum area and would have to "run the gauntlet" of stones and bottles being thrown by neds and nutters. I think it's because you are a moving target so they see it as more of a challange.

Anyway, now I walk to work again.

I hope I didn't put you off. This was actually meant to be supportive - by me telling you that part of me being able to cycle uphill easier - I hope where you live other road users have more courtesy and the neds have less bottles and bricks.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Wow, I'd be astonished if someone threw a rock at me while I was riding by! I wonder what my short temper would do in return? Don't know.

My ride to work isn't very hectic as far as traffic, etc. In fact, I use sidewalks most of the way because I'm not that confident on the street yet. Every now and then, my wife rides her bike to work, and I worry about her, not because of her skills/etiquette/etc, but because of those other morons, like you mentioned, out there.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I just got back from a long bike ride with my son. It was great, but again, achey legs! I hope they get used to it soon.
 

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Posted by walkwithcrowds on :
 
Well, you've inspired me.

I've went up to my mum's house and dragged her old excercise bike out of the pile of rubbish in her garage. It's now sitting in the corner of my bedroom and I have now vowed to use it every morning...although how long this lasts God only knows.

I'll let you know how I get on.

Goodbye chicken legs, hello thighs of steel.


Heh, I said thighs. Heh, heh, heh.
 

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Posted by walkwithcrowds on :
 
Well I've been on the bike every morning for the last couple of weeks now. I don't do much. I only do 2 km as fast as I can. It helps to get the heart pumping and the blood flowing.

I can definately see an improvement in muscle definition in my legs though. Also the first few times I got kinda light headed and puffed out now I'm finding it much easier.

I've noticed that I "wake up" more after I've been on the bike. Before I would just sit with a mug of tea, stare at the wall and surface slowly from a haze. Now I'm wide awake and can sit with my mug of tea and enjoy a good book.

I've just started Catcher In The Rye. I'll post in the what are you reading thread when I get further into it.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Lessee....

I'm not riding my bike like I thought I was gonna.

I never go to the gym anymore.

I'm eating less than normal, just because it's summer, I think. I'm drinking less alcoholic beverages because I'm getting older and it hurts the next day more than ever...

So that's *something*
 

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Posted by KryptonKid on :
 
Hi, Guys. I've been reading this thread for a couple of weeks and I have found it has motivated me to make some lifestyle changes. I do want to lose a few pounds, but my main goal it to begin healthy *lifelong* habits reguarding eating, excercise, emotional health, and the choices I make one a day-to-day basis. I want to incorporate goal-setting into my life, instead of just taking the path of least resistance. At this point I have got to believe that to stop growing is to start dying. Or, more to the point, to *choose* to stop growing is to *choose* to start dying. And it is about choices. If we are to live as men then we cannot identify ourselves as victims of situation. We must claim our lives as our own, with all the benefits and burdens that entails.
These are things that I have heard here as you have had the courage to share your individual victories and setbacks. I want to thank each of you who have posted and offer my spirit to yours in the struggle to improve our bodies and self-images.
I'm sorry for the speech. I only intended to write a line or two. Peace, Shan
 

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Posted by walkwithcrowds on :
 
Hi KryptonKid (or is it Shan?)

I understand what you mean about the lifestyle changes.

Developing healthy *lifelong* habits is one of the most sensible things I've heard in relation to diets and faddish fitness regimes that come and go.

I agree with you, gaining a stable lifestyle and attaining emotional health is far "healthier" than losing two inches from your waist and adding one to your chest.

I hope you stick with it and if you need support or encouragement then "You come on back now, you hear?"
 

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Posted by KryptonKid on :
 
"The subject of fasting is far too complex and deserves far more space than can be allotted here. Suffice it to say, however, that there is no health routine that is more thorough, effective, or beneficial than a properly conducted fast, and no other area of healing that is more neglected, misunderstood, or unfairly maligned. Those who call fasting and starvation the same things are sorely ignorant of the physiology of the human body. It would be like calling swimming and drowning the same thing."

-Harvey Diamond,
"Fit For Life: A New Beginning"


This weekend I have family in, so I have postponed my 3-day fast. It is important to me to focus on why I am doing this. This is NOT the way I want to lose weight (although I do), but is to give my digestive system a break, let my body expend the energy it would digesting for structural repairs, and most importantly to rid my system of all the toxins that have built up these last 39 years. Everything I read from sources I trust say that fasting is a tremendously valuable method of cleaning out the body and spirit. This is not something that should be entered into lightly, and I wouldn't recommend it to people who aren't ready for it physically or psychologically. I have been reading about it for years and feel that I am ready now, so those other posters here please keep a good thought for me for the next few days. I know it will be hard to remember that I have the rest of my life to eat whatever I choose and the feelings of immediacy and "Danger! Famine!" that my body will send me are not as powerful as my will (with a little Help). Thanks, guys, for your support. Your Servant, Shan.
 

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Posted by walkwithcrowds on :
 
Good luck with the fasting Shan.

Does this mean you eat nothing at all for three days or can you eat brown rice?

I'm assuming you can still drink water?

Like I said, Good Luck.
 

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Posted by KryptonKid on :
 
I'm eating nothing solid. Drinking water(lots!) and fruit juice and an herbal detox tea, which is very tasty. I can't think of the brand, but if anyone's interested I can post it. The juice has to be 100% real fruit juice because refined sugar has toxins (and is mood altering, which acts against my spiritual motives), and for some reason I'm told that orange juice and tomato juice aren't good during the fast. Maybe they're too acidic? I should research that. Anyway, if I have to eat something, but don't want to spoil the fast watermelon or fresh apple sauce is ok. I've got watermelon and canned apple sauce on hand, but I have a feeling that if I need to eat I am just going to eat whatever is handy. I haven't read anywhere whether I should be taking my regular daily multivitamin or not, so this time I'm going to do without.
Thank you, walkwithcrowds for your support!
 

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Posted by walkwithcrowds on :
 
Hey, I'm always ready to offer support. As long as I don't have to actually DO anything.

How did you get on?

And (more importantly)how do you feel? Was it worth it? Or do you just feel the same?

p.s. Reading that back it might come off as sarcastic/negative. I'm sorry, I didn't mean it to. I'm just interested in how it feels. CAN you actually feel a physical benefit or do you think it's partly psychological?

I'm thinking it would be both. You're not taking in any stuff that's bad for you and you will feel better for acomplishing something.

Anyway, congratulations. Is this going to be a regular thing? Do you do it once a month or just whenever you feel you need to?
 

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Posted by profh0011 on :
 
There's no way I'm gonna go read this entire thread... but I did read the most recent page, and thought I'd pass on some of my own comments.

Over the course of my life, I've noticed that stress tends to make me eat more. As I often think I'm the only one in my immediate family who wasn't crazy, I've had to deal with a LOT of stress since the 60's. When my Mom yanked my brother & I out of Catholic School instead of standing fast and dealing with the growing problems there, I wound up losing ALL my friends at once. I guess it's no surprise that over the next 2 years I started putting on weight for the first time.

A nurse in the 10th grade was the one who said I needed to cut down on snacks. Over the next 2 years I went cold-turkey on them and believe I lost 41 pounds (over the course of 2 whole years, it was a slow thing). But by a year out of school, "stress" increased, MOSTLY due (as before) to my parents. Perhaps most annoying was my Dad who began repeatedly saying STUPID things like "You really oughta eat more." ALL the trouble, ALL the harrassment over being overweight, and this IDIOT was pushing me to eat more. About a year later, this SAME idiot said to me one day during a tv commercial break, "You know if you keep eating those things you're gonna put all that weight back on." He had NO IDEA why I was so PISSED at him at that moment!!!!!

A nurse who was checking for high blood pressure at work when I was 23 suggested I was "borderline" and could keep it under control without medication if I just lost some weight. I was about 220 at that point. I managed to get it down QUITE a bit, though never as low as before. Again, this was a long process that continued thru art school and after. But it seems EVERYTHING in my life was out of control by my late 20's. At one point I was working at a place in NE Philly, and my boss basically picked on me for 15 straight months, because (near as I can figure) at home his wife was the boss and I was the ONLY one he could abuse. (BASTARD.) By the time I left I'd gotten up to 249. But over the next 2 years I lost OVER 40 pounds-- again. It's been-- unfortunately, a long, SLOW climb back up ever since.

Last night I weighed myself for the first time in over 5 years. I KNEW it'd gone up. The nice surprise is, it hasn't gone up as high as I thought. I'm actually 19 pounds LESS than I was back in late 1992.

5 years ago I cleaned up my Mom's stationary exercise bike, hoping it'd help me get in better shape. SEVERE neighborhood-related stress somehow made that a seeming impossibility. I'm lucky if I ever get on the thing more than 2 or 3 times a week. But this week it's been 7 days in a row-- for the first time since I moved the thing upstairs. My blood has not been circulating well the last 2 weeks, and I'm really hoping I can muster up the willpower I USED to have back in high school and get this damn thing under control again. We'll see. (Winning Publisher's Clearinghouse Sweepstakes would go a long way... I actually PRAY for it every night!)
 

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Posted by walkwithcrowds on :
 
Prof, I am REALLY sorry to hear about all your bad times.
I can't really say anything without coming across as one of those patronizing arseholes that EVERONE hates so much.

From your post you sound like you're trying to make a positive choice, which is great. You always seem to do the sensible thing as well, in that your weight loss is a gradual thing and not some insane crash course diet.

I have been on the bike every morning and I DEFINATELY feel better for it. My problem is not the same as yours as I am only really trying to get a little fitter as I really am a "skinny wee Scottish guy".

I don't do a lot. My daily "work out" (if you can even call it that) consists of lots of stretching to loosen up, 30 press ups, 30 sit ups and then I do (only) 1km on the bike as fast as I can.

It's not a lot but, like I said, I don't have a lot of weight to lose and I really don't want to be "Mr Muscles" but I really do feel better for doing it. Maybe it's like I said to Shan - It might be a mixture of physical and psychological benefit - you get phyically fitter and you feel emotionaly better for having achieved something.

The point I'm trying to make is, if a lazy sod like me can feel better by doing this and keep doing it then I'm sure you will be able to as well.

Keep posting back to let me know how you get on.

All the best,

John.
 

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Posted by profh0011 on :
 
Considering all the stress I am STILL under, I'm quite frankly amazed. In the last 2 weeks, I've managed to do my brief exercises AND bike routine EVERY day except one. (Sunday I was feeling SO wasted, I didn't even take my shower. Just stayed in bed most of the day-- THANK GOODNESS I had an ALL-DAY "marathon" on TV Land to watch. I'd never have believed I'd ever find myself sitting thru 12 STRAIGHT HOURS of Marlo Thomas! Sunday's supposed to be a "day of rest", ANYWAY!)

I've also only eaten snacks after dinner TWICE in 2 weeks (instead of every night as has been my habit).

I don't plan to weigh myself again at least a month has gone by. We'll see how long I can maintain this.
 

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Posted by walkwithcrowds on :
 
That sounds like you are taking the sensible approach - slow but sure.
It seems (to me anyway) to be a more natural way to change yourself than faddy diets and two weeks of intense work out at the gym and then nothing, as you can't be bothered anymore.
And you are not stressing yourself out by being a slave to the scales. Like you said you have enough stress in your life anyway so this is something you can take it easy over.
Keep up the good work and post back to let me know how you are getting on.
 

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Posted by Invisible Brainiac on :
 
A hearty round of congratulations to everyone here. Willpower may be hard to muster, but muster it we have!

Keep up the good work, everyone
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I've just joined Weight Watchers, using the online plan. Everything I've read about it says that it works really well. I know several people who have used WW, including my mom, who is a life member!

I've gone up and down over the years. Let's see how this works. I hope when I get to meet some of you in person there'll be a lot less of me!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
And in my first week on Weight Watchers, I've lost eight pounds!
 

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Posted by walkwithcrowds on :
 
Exellent work RH.

But if there is less of you to meet that means there is less of you to love.

We'll just love what's there more.
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Thanks for the encouragement, WWC. As of this morning, I've lost a total of fifteen pounds!
 

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Posted by walkwithcrowds on :
 
Wow!

That deserves serious cogratulations

Seriously well done Rocky.
Do you have a target you are trying for or are you just taki ng it a bit at a time, so as not to rush yourself?

Well done mate.
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I do have a target, although Weight Watchers encourages starting by losing ten percent of one's body weight. As of this week, I've lost 18 pounds, which gives me six to go for that. After that, I'll have another 43 to go to my target weight.

At some point, I'll have to post a picture of me wearing the pants (that's trousers to you, WWC ) I was wearing when I started.
 

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Posted by walkwithcrowds on :
 
Hey if you want to post a picture of you in just your pants (that's underwear to you) then that's fine by me.

Go Rockhopper, go Rockhopper, go Rockhopper!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I made it to my 10 percent goal--or actually two pounds past it this week! I'm almost halfway to my target weight!


 

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Posted by walkwithcrowds on :
 
Well done Rockhopper. Keep up the good work.

So do you feel better for the weight loss.

I mean, of course, you will feel better emotionaly - but do you notice a physical difference? Do you find it is easier to make it up the stairs and stuff like that? Do you have more energy?

Also, do you find it easier or harder to stick to your new regime as time goes on?

Whatever, we are behind you and I'm still waiting for the underwear photo!!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I took a week off from the diet while I was visiting my parents, although I didn't go totally overboard.

I started back following the plan on Monday. Wednesday is my weigh-in day, so I weighed myself this morning and found I had still lost three pounds over the last two weeks! I've now lost 32 pounds and have 35 pounds left to go for my target weight.

To answer WWC's questions from a few weeks ago, I don't have to take stairs too often (My condo is a ground-level flat and my library is one floor also), but I do find stairs easier now when I do climb them.

Taking a week off was kind of fun, but now that I'm back in my routine, it's no problem at all.

There'll be a bit of a wait for that underwear photo. I'm pretty shy

[ May 24, 2007, 11:28 AM: Message edited by: Rockhopper Lad ]
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I weighed in this morning and have now lost 36 pounds, with 31 to go!

I'm trying to be more careful about what I'm eating as well. I've found that I've been eating too many of those "100 calorie packs" which are great, but they're essentially a small portion of junk food. So, there will be fewer of those and more fruits and veggies.
 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Way to go John! I'm not using or following any kind of diet or plan but I know how good it feels to lose weight. With my changes I'm down 19 pounds in the last three weeks. I'm hoping for a couple of more as I wanted to at least lose 20 before my one month follow-up which is on the 11th.
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Congrats, Scott! That's really terrific!

There's something so satisfying about all the things that go with losing weight--like having to buy smaller clothes! And just looking at yourself in the mirror and being able to see the difference!

Keep up the good work!
 

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Posted by mechana on :
 
Men! Curse you and your ability to easily drop the pounds!

Awww, I'm just jealous. I too have joined Weight Watchers and it has taken me 5 months to lose 31 lbs. Still got lots more to go...

Congrats to everyone for their successes!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
And congatulations to you, Mechana!

Some of the women I work with are also on WW and they've made similar comments about my loss.

Seriously though, 31 pounds in five months is a great accomplishment. Way to go!
 

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Posted by Ultra Jorge on :
 
I think I have a thyroid problem. The last two years I've gained weight. I could always maintain 240 and look alright. I am currently 285!!! I diet, i workout, i walk/run, i eat smart...and i can't lose weight.

My family recently found out they've had thyroid issues. My mom, her brother, and three of his kids. Guess i have to visit the doctor.
 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Congrats Ronda! I know it is harder for women to lose weight, Caroline's having the same experience. But I only encourage her. I hope Sean is helping you too.

Has anyone ever used Calorie-Count.com? When I decided to start tracking my calories on top of the carbs I found this site to be a great help. I just plug in what I've had during the day and it tracks everything, including the sodium which is high on my watch list. And if what you eat isn't already on the site they include an easy to use form to enter the needed information. I like the fact that they "grade" your food intake to make it easier to see how well you are eating. Since I started tracking I'm averaging a B+. But I'm also not eating anywhere near the calories I'm supposed to, averaging just 1,080 a day when they suggest 3,650 to reach my goal. Supposedly a man my age, size and weight should be able to go on 1,500 good calories a day. I've been a little too strict in my cutting back but its the way I have to do it in order to feel like I'm going to make this a life long change.

Weigh in is tomorrow. I'll post the results if I get time before heading to my DnD group with a big platter of fresh veggies (instead of the usual candy, soda and chips).

Of all the threads on Legion World, this is the one thread I never, ever, thought I'd participate in.
 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Ultra Jorge:
I think I have a thyroid problem. The last two years I've gained weight. I could always maintain 240 and look alright. I am currently 285!!! I diet, i workout, i walk/run, i eat smart...and i can't lose weight.

My family recently found out they've had thyroid issues. My mom, her brother, and three of his kids. Guess i have to visit the doctor.

---

Thyroid disease is easily treatable nowadays Jorge. Caroline's dad always had to deal with it and she has to make sure to be regularly checked for it too. It sounds like you already take care of yourself. Adding whatever needed medication to keep you healthy and around for many more years is the way to go.
 

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Posted by mechana on :
 
Hey Scott: I've never tried the website you mention, but I think any form of tracking is important to success. WW also advocates journalling, and it's supposed to be one of the most effective tools for weight loss. It's too easy to not pay attention or delude yourself!

Make sure you don't eat too little! As I'm sure you know, inadequate calorie intake will just slow your metabolism and sabotage your efforts.

I do find "dieting" so much easier in the summer months. So much great produce is available. But I find myself spending a ton of money on groceries.
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
This morning was a milestone. I tipped the scales at 199 pounds! That initial digit being a one is significant for me. I've been in the 200s off and on since my teens, so being under it feels so much better.

I have a way to go before my target weight, but this is a big step.


The really rewarding thing is the number of people who tell me that I've inspired them. I have to credit my inspiration to a friend who lost over 100 pounds last year. He's 20 years older than I and I didn't want to have to be his age and still have this to conquer.

So I'm kind of happy today!

Oh, and Scott, I never thought I'd be posting here either!
 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
That's really great John! Good job! I'm not aiming that low, not yet. I'd settle for 250 but I've always been a big guy and I don't think any lower would be that much better. But that figure is a long way off so I'm taking it in steps.

I did lose another 2 pounds last week so I'm working on it. 89 more pounds to reach my first goal. I'm trying to hit that by SDCC next year.

quote:

---

Originally posted by mechana:
Hey Scott: I've never tried the website you mention, but I think any form of tracking is important to success. WW also advocates journalling, and it's supposed to be one of the most effective tools for weight loss. It's too easy to not pay attention or delude yourself!

Make sure you don't eat too little! As I'm sure you know, inadequate calorie intake will just slow your metabolism and sabotage your efforts.

I do find "dieting" so much easier in the summer months. So much great produce is available. But I find myself spending a ton of money on groceries.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
That's really great John! Good job! I'm not aiming that low, not yet. I'd settle for 250 but I've always been a big guy and I don't think any lower would be that much better. But that figure is a long way off so I'm taking it in steps.

I did lose another 2 pounds last week so I'm working on it. 89 more pounds to reach my first goal. I'm trying to hit that by SDCC next year.

---

Congrats on your loss! Two pounds is a healthy amount of weight loss in a week. It sounds like you have realistic goals in mind and are using sensible and healthy means to achieve them! Keep up the good work!

 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
OMG! I don't know if I should be excited or a little bit afraid. I lost 8 pounds this week! I was thinking that I had already hit my plateau and was down to the 1 to 2 pounds a week if I was lucky. I added up my calories for last week and it was only 5,031. The week before I had 7,812. But I was also put on a new med this last Monday for my blood pressure (started it Tuesday) that includes a diuretic. So I'm thinking a lot of that weight has to be from water loss.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
WOW-- Rocky, Scott, Mechana... you guys are truly an inspiration!


I've been majorly avoiding this thread for months as my weight has creeped back up. I now weigh more than I have in well over a decade.

But last Monday I quit fooling myself and started following my weight watchers plan again (the one from early 2006 I did so well on).

So I'll be checking in regualrly for awhile.

You guys keep it up!
 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Thanks Lash! Just keep checking in. You know we are here for you.

I'm up to 29 pounds lost in 32 days. I know I can't keep that up forever but it makes me feel a lot better and I've noticed some physical changes already. Like my pants nearly falling off my a$$ walking down the hallway at work. Caroline and some people at work have even told me my face looks leaner.
 

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Posted by mechana on :
 
Scott, your success is mind boggling!

And yes, diuretics can have a dramatic effect when you first start taking them! I stopped taking mine for a while ( I'm terrible with pills) and when I started again, I lost 11 pounds that week!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Yay, Scott!

The buying new clothes part is always great!

And, Lash, congrats on getting back with WW. Are you doing it online or are you going to meetings?
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I'm sort-of cheating, No meetings-- just following the exact plan I did from Jan-April of 2006. But that worked really well for me, I dropped from 207 to 176, iirc.

As of Thursday, I was at 213, WAY too much for someone 5'10" tall. I'm just gonna stick with it and weigh myself every week or so as I did before.

(after only 6 days I can already tell an increase in energy and some decrease in my belly)

Scott-- I *LOVE* that whole pants-falling-off part of dieting. This is awesome and you're doing yourself a world of good by taking the weight off!

I'm so back on the wagon with you guys! Hey, we're the Fantastic 4 Dieters!
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
I guess that makes me Ben. I'm easily the one closest to his size.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Well, my name's John, so I guess that makes me the Human Torch. I'm a flamer anyway.
 

---

Posted by mechana on :
 
So as the token girl I guess that makes me Sue? I impatiently await the day I wake up looking like Jessica Alba!
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Just don't re-color your hair. Red heads are more fun.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Hmmm... FF fill-inner Meuda was a red-head!
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Medusa AND Crystal...
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
So question for those of you who count/track the carbs/calories/sodium etc. Do you keep doing it the whole time or do you, once you get comfortable with what you are eating daily, stop?

I'm still using Calorie-Count to track my progress (can't get up to 1,500 calories per day :mad) but some days I just don't feel like doing it. I'm making myself do it but wonder if, after some point, it doesn't matter. Or do you find if you don't some bad habits sneaking back in?
 

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Posted by doublechinner on :
 
Thanks in no small part to the inspiration of leading Legion World citizens whom I admire and respect, I started Weight Watchers online 2 weeks ago today. I've lost 5 pounds so far. My initial goal is to lose 30 pounds, ultimate goal 100 pounds.

I'm doing the Weight Watchers Online for Men. I have to say I really like it. Unfortunately, I'm just not much of a joiner, so going to meetings is a big hurdle for me. I like the online program because it has a really great food points database. It's easy to find just about anything, and it's easy to add foods that come with nutritional info on the container. Since I do numbers for a living and store lots of other pieces of info in my head, tracking points obsessively on the computer is actually fun for me.

WW also has a lot of great exercise vids on their site too. I really don't like exercising, so that's a real hurdle for me, too. But the tips on incorporating exercise into your daily habits has been useful. I'm down about 15 pounds since I bottomed out last March, and I already feel more energetic and active. I also notice that, on days when I am less active, my appetite is less, too, which is a very encouraging sign.

My problem has long been that I just eat too much, as I really enjoy food, cooking, dining out, etc. I eat pretty nutritious stuff, but I eat too much of it, and as Captain Kirk once said, too much of anything, even lowfat cottage cheese, ins't necessarily good. WW has been very helpful already in helping me learn about portion control and avoiding combinations of things that put me over my daily caloric target. (I am really, really missing cheese, but I hope ultimately to get to a point where an occasional cheese tasting meal that fits within my target AND fills me up enough that I don't need to eat lots of other things to feel full.)

Part of my Weight Watchers ultimate goal is to set aside the "Doublechinner" persona and come up with something else. So, if any of you have suggestions that would inspire me, let me know!
 

---

Posted by mechana on :
 
So after 3 incredibly frustrating weeks of no losses, despite my best efforts, I am finally down 3 lbs this week! Yay! I don't think my morale could have taken much more.

Scott: WW journalling is a bit different because they assign a point value to foods based on their calorie, fat and fibre content, and you just have to track the points (though I also like to keep an eye on sodium levels).

I do think it's very easy to underestimate what you are consuming if you stop tracking, weighing and measuring your food. But if you tend to eat the same things every day, then I guess maybe you wouldn't have to be so diligent. I have taken to keeping track of everything, even when I royally screw up and overindulge. It keeps me accountable, and seeing the cold hard facts laid out can stop a potential binge in it's tracks!

If you wanted to simplify things, maybe you could just check off basic food groups each day, ie. 2-3 servings of dairy, 5+ fruits and vegetables, however many whole grains and proteins are recommended, 2 litres of water, etc.

Doublechinner: how about Chisled Jaw
 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Thanks Ronda. I just have to make myself stick with tracking. I don't think I'd start eating bad if I didn't but I don't want to let old habits creep back in.

Been sick since Sunday night and decided to do an early weigh-in. Been only three days since my last one. And I've lost another four pounds. That's got to be due to being sick though plus the fact I haven't eaten much since Sunday.
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Welcome aboard, Doublechinner. I've had good luck with WW so far. There are some independent Web sites that have Points values for various foods. This one lists Points values for foods at various restaurant chains and this one lists generic food values.

I like the online version of WW also. My life is already hectic enough without trying to fit another weekly commitment into it for a meeting. Besides, all the meetings held anywhere that's convenient for me are at times when I have another commitment. The online version space-rawks!

As for a new name, I like Mechana's suggestion, although you may find another you like better. If it helps to motivate you, perhaps you might want to say when you lose a certain number of pounds, you'll change your displayed name to whatever it is you choose.

As for me, today is my weigh-in day and I lost another pound. So it's 39 down and 28 to go!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Yay, D'Chinner! Welcome! I *love* WW, it works so good-- and when I'm craving Mexican and Italian-- my 2 weaknesses, covered in cheese-- there's WW's SMART ONES entrees that really help me through! (I find it fun keeping up with the numbers, too!)

As for a new name... I always liked your "DC" initials since I (and you, I think) am a big DC fan... how's about "Johnny DC"?

Mechana-- your patience paid off, HOORAY for you!

Go Rocky, GO!!!

Scott, like Mechana said WW mainly focuses on calorie, fat and fiber content but I do try to watch the sodium. I need to drink more water!

As for me... weighed today at 210, down 3 lbs. Still A *LONG* way to go... (I'm still 3 lbs. heavier than when I started WW in Jan, 2006) but I **WILL** get there!

And Scott-- you are dropping weight like a MOFO!!! That so rawks!

[ June 20, 2007, 12:57 PM: Message edited by: MLLASH ]
 

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Posted by doublechinner on :
 
Thanks for the encouragement, guys! I should have done this a long time ago, but better late than never, and the online tool really is materially better for me.

Scott, you are really a star! I sure hope you are feeling better all the way around.
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by MLLASH:
Yay, D'Chinner! Welcome! I *love* WW, it works so good-- and when I'm craving Mexican and Italian-- my 2 weaknesses, covered in cheese-- there's WW's SMART ONES entrees that really help me through!

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by MLLASH:
For breakfast, I like the salisbury steak & Mac/cheese... breakfast food is SO fattening, so it's easier for me to have a SMART ONES. I also love the bistro chicken fettucinni, shrimp primavera, chicken enchiladas and sante fe r&b!

---

Um, that made me hungry!!! What kind of dieters are you!
 

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Posted by doublechinner on :
 
Yes, one of the things I've found most interesting is the calorie/point value for most breakfast cereals, especially the "healthy" ones! It's like eating a small steak! So, why not have Salisbury steak?
 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
I love Salisbury steak. But I'll have to check out the ingredient list to see if WW prepared stuff is safe. Since Caroline can't have aspartame or MSG I try to keep it out of the house. Thought about doing that Nutrisystem stuff that's all over TV but the thought of shelling out $300 to get the food before trying it just doesn't appeal to me.

And welcome aboard DC! Missed your post after my last one so I don't want to leave you out. I think we've got a great group of support here and it shows. Feeling better today than I have all week (thanks for asking) so I'm hoping to get some calories going.

Already had a great veggie lover's salad (romaine, iceberg, radish, carrots, purple cabbage) with a low fat balsamic vinaigrette for lunch. Loaded it with fresh ground pepper (I keep a pepper grinder at work as I love the stuff) and it was delicious! Now I'm trying to avoid having some popcorn, my one true snack weakness. I know some of it is okay but the sodium is a killer.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
I love Salisbury steak. But I'll have to check out the ingredient list to see if WW prepared stuff is safe. Since Caroline can't have aspartame or MSG I try to keep it out of the house. Thought about doing that Nutrisystem stuff that's all over TV but the thought of shelling out $300 to get the food before trying it just doesn't appeal to me.

And welcome aboard DC! Missed your post after my last one so I don't want to leave you out. I think we've got a great group of support here and it shows. Feeling better today than I have all week (thanks for asking) so I'm hoping to get some calories going.

Already had a great veggie lover's salad (romaine, iceberg, radish, carrots, purple cabbage) with a low fat balsamic vinaigrette for lunch. Loaded it with fresh ground pepper (I keep a pepper grinder at work as I love the stuff) and it was delicious! Now I'm trying to avoid having some popcorn, my one true snack weakness. I know some of it is okay but the sodium is a killer.
 

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Posted by mechana on :
 
WW prepared foods are a lot harder to get in Canada, at least in my my city. I can usually only find about 3 diffrent types of Smart Ones, so I seldom have them. I've become quite the expert at creating low points versions of "normal" foods, because I'll never be a person who enjoys fish and salad for dinner!

I love breakfast food!

DC: try All Bran Guardian cereal. 1 cup is 2 points and it's chock full of fibre! (no fibre in steak)

I also like to make breakfast smoothies with skim milk, orange juice, fat free yogurt and frozen fruits. Delicious. And it's amazing how many servings of fruit and dairy you can cram in a blender.

Or try 2 slices of WW bread, toasted, with 2 tbls cream cheese and 2 tbls fruit spread. Only 4 points and sooo good! Probably less if you use low fat cream cheese. If I'm in a hurry I have a 6 oz. glass of oj or skim milk (3 pts) and a fruit & nut granola bar (3 pts).

If you prefer more "manly: fare, fat free ham is only 1 point for 60 grams (2 oz.) And eggs are 2 pts each. I'll stop now...
 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Alright, just did some checking and OMG! Do you guys know how much sodium you're taking in with the prepared WW meals? An average of 700mg per serving. On a good diet you should limit your sodium to 2100-2400mg per day (for me, because of the bp, I'm limited to 1500mg per day). That means just three of these meals and you've blown your sodium for the day. Its almost like the Lean/Hot Pockets I was becoming addicted to for lunch. The sodium in those was killing me to have two a day on top of whatever else I ate.

So, please, just be careful. They may be good in a lot of other ways but adjust your sodium in other areas if you eat more than two of these a day.
 

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Posted by Ultra Jorge on :
 
Sodium is a killer. I focus more on low sodium than I do on calories sometimes.

BUT I did read a study where people at just frozen food packs all day within a certain amount of calories and another group at the same amount of calories but fended for themselves. They did not eat frozen foods.

The frozen food group lost much more weight. They said doing it short term for weight loss may be worth it.

Sodium for me is horrible. I retain alot of water and get super bloated. I've actually dropped lots of sodium from my diet and I feel great. Still fat! But great!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Pardon.... just cut/pasting some of my old posts here to help me keep track of stuff....


Jillikers, after rereading this entire thread, I feel so much better about being at 185.

Back in January when I started this thread, I had reached 204 pounds! *shudder!!*

Then I dieted down into the 190s, but quickly ballooned back up to 199!

That was in March; I then went on the low-carb and dieted all the way down to 183 (my lowest recorded weight yet on this thread).

Of course, after that, I vanished for a while from this thread (meaning I had goten complacent and started eating whatever I wanted, no doubt) and when next I showed up I was BACK in the 190s!

So in August, I started this "eat less" thing, and although the weight has come off VERY VERY slowly, it has come off and, more importantly, has stayed off. One month ago I weighed 186, today I weighed 185. That's with virtually no effort on my part. Maintaining is important, something I haven't done all this year until now it seems.

Yeah, 185 doesn't sound so bad.


***********************************************

Today's weight: 185

Total pounds lost: 22


So I'm back on this thread and the story can be told.

Early 2005 (as documented here) I resigned myself to being content with 185 pounds. Then around April/May (also documented here) I began daily miles-long walks, finding myself in the upper 180s-lower 190s, but not really minding.

Then I got kind-of silent here later on in 2005.

That's because after the time jumped forward, and it got colder, and the treadmills in my apartment broke down (only recently got repaired, too), the walks stopped dead.

But the eating continued, unabated... and even increased.

So long story short, before I knew it, I was a whopping 207 pounds.

Now, March of last year, my Mom started Weight Watchers. She was only 148 pounds, but being that she's so short, that was really big for her. She dropped all the way down to 113-115 pounds (and is still there), and looks years younger (she was also my walking buddy before winter kicked in).

So then, distressed about my weight, and realizing I didn't really have anyone else to do it, she started in on my weight gain and how bad I was looking.

She was right.

And I had tried my usual round of crazy diets, and nothing was working, and I couldn't commit to any of them because they were so awful.

So finally, after seeing how doughy and awful I looked in Christmas pictures, I told her January 1st I wanted her to help me do this Weight Watchers thingie.

I started on January 3 with her guidance.

Today is day 2 of my 8th week. 22 pounds down, that's a smidge over 3 pounds a week.

And I ain't stopping here. This diet is WAY too easy, fulfilling, and even fun. I eat all the frickin' time and the weight has plummeted off. I even have my friend at work (also my primary party buddy) on it. He lost 5 pounds the first week and is nearing the end of his second. The two of us have inspired our other work friend, who is making a trial run of it this week.

The 170s is firmly in my sight and I know I'm going to get there now. It's been a mighty lOOOOOOng time! Got tons of cute clothes waiting to be worn... *giddy!*

And all this withOUT the excercise.... once Spring kicks in and the walking starts back again--- Maybe I should shoot for the 160s. That's my High School territory!


*************************************************

last posted weight from 2006 WW diet:

I'm about 177.

Thurs and Fri I walked 2.39 miles (3.2 miler per hour at 45 minutes) on the treadmill. Will repeat today.
Figured it was past time to add excercise to the diet mix.

[ June 20, 2007, 08:25 PM: Message edited by: MLLASH ]
 

---

Posted by Eryk Davis Ester on :
 
Perhaps Mort Weisinger's advice to Jim L. of New York might be of some inspiration to you guys!

quote:

---

Dear Editor: I know that a great many of your readers enjoyed the story, "The Fat Superboy". But I didn't think it was so funny. You see, I'm overweight myself, and all my life my schoolmates have been teasing my because I'm fat. I wish people would realize that we fatties are very sensitive when we are kidded about our weight.

Jim. L., Albany, N. Y.

(We sympathize with you, Jimmy. But if you really feel sorry for yourself, you should skip sweets, sodas and snacks until you knock off those excess pounds. Remember the old saying - "a moment on the lips, forever on the hips." -Ed.)

---

 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
heh heh heh!
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 

 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
(You'll have to e-mail me about your diet, Lashie. I've gotta do something, and physical activity is somewhat limited to arm exercises right now. Dropping the weight could go a long way towards getting back on my feet. )
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Eryk Davis Ester:
Perhaps Mort Weisinger's advice to Jim L. of New York might be of some inspiration to you guys!

quote:

---

Dear Editor: I know that a great many of your readers enjoyed the story, "The Fat Superboy". But I didn't think it was so funny. You see, I'm overweight myself, and all my life my schoolmates have been teasing my because I'm fat. I wish people would realize that we fatties are very sensitive when we are kidded about our weight.

Jim. L., Albany, N. Y.

(We sympathize with you, Jimmy. But if you really feel sorry for yourself, you should skip sweets, sodas and snacks until you knock off those excess pounds. Remember the old saying - "a moment on the lips, forever on the hips." -Ed.)

---

---

I think ol' Mort may have set up some therapist for life with that response. Poor kid.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I'm taking a couple of days off to do some housecleaning. I was just going through my closet and found a pair of pants (never worn) and a pair of bluejeans that I had put away because they were too small. They fit beautifully now--in fact, the jeans are a little loose! I had to post here about it!

Yay!
 

---

Posted by doublechinner on :
 
Rockhopper -- that's always the best! I have some pants set aside to try on in a few weeks, I hope.

My weekly weighing indicates another 3 lbs lost this week. That's 9 lbs. after 3 weeks on WW. I am thrilled, especially because I don't feel particularly deprived yet. I've had one splurge meal per week so far and am still losing at a good rate. I'm notching my belt tighter, and my dress shirt collars are looser.

It's particularly encouraging to realize that I CAN control this aspect of my life, that it's within my power, and that I can still enjoy food, cooking and eating.

Oh, and Mort Weisinger can bite me! There is still plenty of me to go around, after all!
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Congrats John! I love that feeling, having been able to get into both pants and shirts a size down from what I have been wearing (and preparing to go up another). I even found some cool new shirts in a 4x at K-Mart of all places. Can't wait for some dress down days at work to wear them.

And congrats on your loss too DC. Three pounds a week is good, especially if you are finding you can handle the control.

For me I lost a total of five pounds last week but only one more between Tuesday and Saturday (my official weigh in day). I think I've hit the barrier where I really need to find a good little bit of exercise to go along with the healthier eating. If it wasn't so damn hot here I'd just walk but the sun doesn't go down until nearly 10 PM and the heat is just sticking around.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by doublechinner:
Rockhopper -- that's always the best! I have some pants set aside to try on in a few weeks, I hope.

My weekly weighing indicates another 3 lbs lost this week. That's 9 lbs. after 3 weeks on WW. I am thrilled, especially because I don't feel particularly deprived yet. I've had one splurge meal per week so far and am still losing at a good rate. I'm notching my belt tighter, and my dress shirt collars are looser.

It's particularly encouraging to realize that I CAN control this aspect of my life, that it's within my power, and that I can still enjoy food, cooking and eating.

Oh, and Mort Weisinger can bite me! There is still plenty of me to go around, after all!

---

Amen to all of the above and congratulations!

You've touched on a lot of the things that I like about WW also, DC. I went to my friend Andrea's wedding this weekend and I had a little bit of everything I liked on the buffet, but didn't gorge myself. I even had a small piece of the groom's cake (If I'm going to splurge on a sweet thing, it's going to be chocolate!) and some champagne. And I still was able to stay on WW.

And being able to control this aspect is a big thing for me too. Last night, Tom, my best friend, called and asked if I wanted to join him for dinner at our favourite Mexican restaurant. Having already used most of my weekly points at the wedding reception, I declined and explained why. He understood.
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
Congrats John! I love that feeling, having been able to get into both pants and shirts a size down from what I have been wearing (and preparing to go up another). I even found some cool new shirts in a 4x at K-Mart of all places. Can't wait for some dress down days at work to wear them.

And congrats on your loss too DC. Three pounds a week is good, especially if you are finding you can handle the control.

For me I lost a total of five pounds last week but only one more between Tuesday and Saturday (my official weigh in day). I think I've hit the barrier where I really need to find a good little bit of exercise to go along with the healthier eating. If it wasn't so damn hot here I'd just walk but the sun doesn't go down until nearly 10 PM and the heat is just sticking around.

---

Good going, Scott! As I've said before, having to buy new clothes is one of the best things!

Exercise is the hardest part for me too. I have a gym membership that I never use. It intimidates the bejeebers out of me!

Fortunately, I have a dog who requires that he be walked twice a day or else.
 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
You just reminded me of a conversation I had with one of my best friends (who works on my team) yesterday. We were talking and he said that he had last 10 pounds over the last few weeks thanks to me. He hasn't done anything more than just be more aware of what he was eating, what the serving size was and what it contained. I thought that was pretty good. He wasn't actively trying to lose weight but now that he's more aware he finds he doesn't really miss anything. Sometimes that's all it takes. Just being aware of what we stuff in our faces.
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
That's right. And seeing a friend lose weight often provides the inspiration we need. I think I've mentioned the friend who inspired me is a guy in the choir I sing with who lost over 100 pounds last year. He told me that, including me, he has inspired over 500 pounds of weight loss! And we all help each other. I've had several people say that I've inspired them to start watching their weight.
 

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Posted by mechana on :
 
Hi guys: well it turns out that stress related starvation is a surprisingly inefficient weight loss method. I was only down 0.6 lbs this week. But I did run out out diuretics (for blood pressure) a week ago, so maybe I'm just full of water.

Feeling better emotionally this week, so my appetite is back. Glad to be feeling better, but almost disappointed that food is no longer the last thing on my mind. Almost. But I am proud that I never once turned to food to make myself feel better during my crisis. I don't know if that's just a girl thing or not, but there's nothing like a big bag of chips to sublimate one's feelings!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I'm so glad things are going better for you, Ronda.

I'm also proud of you for not turning to food for comfort! It's not just a girl thing. Guys do that too--a lot more than most would ever admit. I know I've done it a lot and that's one of the reasons I'm posting on this thread!

As for me, I weighed in this morning at 196. Two more down!
 

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Posted by mechana on :
 
Well I just got off the treadmill and after 35 minutes of brisk walking, I feel amazing. You know my doctor has recommended anti-depressants to me twice, but I wonder if I wouldn't just be better off with some regular exercise. At least then all the side effects would be good ones.
 

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Posted by doublechinner on :
 
That's great that you have such a positive response to exercise! I've always figured that one of the reasons I don't like exercise is that it doesn't seem to generate much endorphin buzz for me. And I totally stuff my face in stressful situations.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Scoots, I am so damned proud of you I could kiss you! Have Caroline do it for me, 'kay?

Rocky-- OM-freakin'-G! Isn't it AWESOME getting into those pants? You are kicking ass!

And DC-- you are WORKING IT!

Mechana-- MAJOR PROPS on the walking-- I could kick my own ass for ever getting out of that habit (and it CAN get addictive!). I got depressed re-reading this thread and seeing how many miles a week I used to walk (lots!) as compared to now (NONE!). And to quote Dr. Ian from Celebrity Fit Club-- "you have to eat to lose weight". So no more starving!

You guys all totally inspire me!

Last time I weighed (I *think* it was early this week) I was down to 209. I *feel* smaller, more comfortable in my own skin, but I haven't weighed recently. I think I'm afraid to. Maybe this weekend. Had pinto beans w/ jalapenos and lima beans for dinner--
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
I'm back too. I've been avoiding this thread for a few weeks, because I've been lax since about mid-May. But I saw Lash had posted, so I figured I would check too--and I'm glad I did! Scott, DB, Rocky, Mechana...its inspiring to read your posts!

As some of you may remember, last summer I dropped about 30 pounds and started to weigh what I did in high school. I kept it up until at least Feb/March, but started to get lax. It got worse in May and June, where I really just let myself go a little. A lot of it is stress--I got engaged, bought a condo, am moving and work has been stressful too. Between good stress, bad stress, vacations, etc., I've really thrown dieting out the window and missed too many workouts. While the actual weight I put back on isn't too much (about 12 pounds), I feel it in my body, which means I feel it in my mind (re: slight depression about weight, I think most would know how I feel).

Well, I'm back as of yesterday. Running/cardio during the day, weight-lifting at night, eating healthy everyday but the weekend. I won't maintain double-workouts everyday, but want to get about two weeks of that in to kick-start me and then hit a steady workout. My goal is to finally get below 200 pounds. I was at 207 last September, my lowest in over ten years.

So much of it is getting over the first hurdle (and then many more hurdles to come) and I'm on the brink of it. Reading the last two pages of this thread may have helped...

Oh, and I definately turn to food too a lot when I'm stressed. For me its usually cheeseburgers, hot dogs, etc. Things that aren't bad for you per se, but if you eat them every few days, not the best thing. Turkey, chicken, fish, veggies, here I come...
 

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Posted by mechana on :
 
Woohoo, I'm down another 3 lbs this week! I've had some small losses lately that were kind of disappointing, but I just realized that if I average out the last 3 months, it's exactly 2 lbs/week, so that's not too shabby! Must learn to maintain perspective! I still have a long way to go, but I'm so impatient!

I'm considering joining the Y, if I can get over my self-consciousness. I figure if I start now, maybe I'll be all toned by the time the fat layer comes off!

My goal is to be one hot cougar by the time I'm 40!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
One more pound off as of Wednesday!

I have had a few people say to me that they don't think I should lose any more, but I think 195 is still kind of heavy for 5'8". so I'm sticking with it for another 25 pounds.

BTW, I now weigh less than I did when I was thirteen!
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
My mom sent me this one:

THE DAWN KEY DIET





 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 


Well I lost one pound last week and not one ounce this week. And it is still just too damn hot to do anything outside like walking (nearly 9:00 PM and it is still over 100).
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
That's insane.

If it's any consolation, the heat's moving east... it's supposed to hit 92 tomorrow, peak at close to triple digits Monday, then mid- to low-90's until the end of the week.

Looks like I'll be spending most of my week in my bedroom with the AC...
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Two more pounds off as of this morning!

This weekend a friend commented that I'm now "two-dimensional"! Do we have a Ron-Karr graemlin anywhere?
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
Leave it to Gary...
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Ah. I was misspelling his name!

There we go!
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Two more pounds! I've lost 46 and have 21 to go! I'm now past the two-thirds mark to my target weight. Woohoo!
 

---

Posted by mechana on :
 
Congrats Rockhopper!

I haven't lost anything for 2 weeks, but I haven't really been trying too hard. I've had company for the past week, and I think we went out to eat at least 4 times! But today my routine gets back to normal, so I have high hopes for next week!
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Congrats John!

Sorry I haven't been around for support guys. Like Ronda, I've lost nothing for the last two weeks, not an ounce. But then I haven't gained anything either. When I talked to my doc last week he said it was to be expected for someone of my size and with the slow metabolism I have. He told me that I'll have another weight loss drop like I've already had given time and staying true to my diet, which I have.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
That sounds about right, Scott, since you dropped so much so quickly--of which you should be very proud . The important thing is sticking with it.

And congrats to both of you for your success so far! Keep going!
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Thanks John!

Looks like the doc was right. Weighed in today and I had dropped six pounds this week. That's 40 pounds since mid-May. Still don't think I'll hit my goal by SDCC next year but I'm sure going to keep trying.
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
My sister the fitness freak gave me this formula for figuring BMI:

703 * Body Weight in lbs / Height in inches / Height in inches

--That gives me a BMI of around 37. A BMI of 30+ is considered Obese.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Pov:
My sister the fitness freak gave me this formula for figuring BMI:

703 * Body Weight in lbs / Height in inches / Height in inches

--That gives me a BMI of around 37. A BMI of 30+ is considered Obese.

---

Pure evil. Of course that's what I'd expect from post #666.

You don't want to know what mine works out to be. Kinda similar to the difference in our DCBS orders this month.
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lightning Lad:
Pure evil. Of course that's what I'd expect from post #666.

---

Totally coincidental, I swear!

quote:

---

You don't want to know what mine works out to be. Kinda similar to the difference in our DCBS orders this month.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Pov:
My sister the fitness freak gave me this formula for figuring BMI:

703 * Body Weight in lbs / Height in inches / Height in inches

--That gives me a BMI of around 37. :eek: A BMI of 30+ is considered Obese. :( :p

---

...still 5 pounds away from "normal"
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Weighed myself this morning.

I lost the 5 lbs that I had inexplicably regained a couple weeks ago, and I'm back to having lost 25 lbs again.

I still want to lose another 35-40 pounds. Just have to be patient.
 

---

Posted by mechana on :
 
Woohoo, down 4.4 lbs this week! That's 43 so far! Doin' the happy dance! Well, in spirit any way; it's too hot to dance.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
You go Ronda!!! (That's Coke Zero in the glasses, BTW)

Congrats, Blue and DC! Keep up the good work!

Lad Boy, I checked my BMI after Pov posted that also--and thanks for that, Pov; it's very useful. The good news is I'm no longer "obese." I calculated the target weight I set for myself and it still puts me at 25 point something, but I think 170 is still a realistic goal for me, so I don't think I'll change it.

I'm down one more pound this week, which gives me 47 lost so far and 20 to go.
 

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Posted by kid chaos on :
 
You know, I really don't care much for the BMI, and am quite peeved that my job (and so many other places) uses it as the standard.

My company uses the BMI in their "Healthy Lifestyles" initiative, which directly affects such things as bonuses and health insurance initiatives, which has been really unfair for me

The problem with the BMI is that it takes absolutely no account of muscle mass. I've lost a *lot* (over 80 lbs) over the past year, but, thanks to weight lifting, I've also gained weight in the form of muscle.

Now, at 6' tall and 230 lbs, by BMI comes out at somewhere around 32, well within the "obese" range. BUT- if you calculate my body fat percentage, it comes out to be like 16.5%, a percentage within the "normal" range. I'm not sure how to do the math for this, but it takes into account your waist line (mine is 36") as well as your height and weight.

I *know* I'm not obese anymore. I mean I can fit into size L shirts now, where a year ago I had to wear 3XL. But since I'm categorized as such according to my company's BMI standards I have to pay higher insurance rates and take a mandatory "weight management class....
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Congrats on what you've achieved, KC. That's really great!

I did some reading on BMI after I posted this and, while it can indeed be useful, it is widely criticized for just the reasons you mention.

The things some companies do to save a few bucks! My employer does make smokers pay a higher rate for insurance (I am not a smoker), but requiring a class for weight management for someone who clearly does not need it seems very unfair. There are better ways of encouraging people to be healthy.
 

---

Posted by doublechinner on :
 
That bites, KC! Here you should be leading weight-loss efforts at your employer.
 

---

Posted by Saturn Girl on :
 
Very happy..No, hell I am thrilled to report that I lost 5 pounds this week and Scott lost another 2 pounds!!! I never, ever thought I could give up the regular sodas, or stop using cream and sugar in my coffee or my favorite things in the world, the flavored creamers with chocolate. But I have!!! Every week that goes by I miss these things less and less. I have finally stopped craving my three times a week giant frozen chocolate coffees from Starbucks. If I go get one now, I would get one made with the sugar-free syrups and skim milk. When Scott started watching his blood sugar in May, I was still sneaking Cokes while he was at work. But I felt so guilty, and eventually so stupid for being stubborn, that I quit and switched to Diet Coke with Splenda. It took adding lemon juice or lime juice for me to stand the taste, but I kept making myself drink it. We even tossed two twelve packs of Coke in the trash rather then leave them around for me to be tempted. Stopping all but natural sugar in plain, raw fruits, from entering my body is actually changing my whole metabolism. I feel free now I guess. Free to see the possibility of a healthier body for the rest of my life. It's an amazing feeling. I know I will always be a BBW (big beautiful woman, hah!) but I now feel I will be a slimmer and more healthy big gal with a helluva lot more energy and a better attitude.

I owe all of this to Scott. His instantaneous commitment to change after the doctor told him about his diabetes and blood pressure has truely been amazing and I am just in awe of his willpower and determination.

Cheers to all of us in this constant struggle! I really fear the trend of big business, insurance companies, and our government to in effect punish people for obesity and to force us to lose weight or be without insurance or bonuses, or airline seats, or seats in public places and sports arenas, etc. This is a personal and very complicated battle and not 'being lazy' or being 'ignornant' or anything for debate and decisions made by corporations and politicians as blanket rules. So let's try to take comfort and support from each other and just take it day by day and be good to ourselves and not beat ourselves up. (Amen, hah!) Big hugs to every one of you!
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
Hugs to YOU, Caroline! Good for you! I'm so glad Scott's efforts have motivated you to join him in the "never-ending struggle"!
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
All right, Caroline! I'm very proud of you!

This morning one of my friends, one who keeps himself in really good shape, complimented me on what I've done and how proud he is of me. That meant a lot to me.
 

---

Posted by Lad Boy on :
 
Yesterday, I bought running shoes for the first time since 1983. I ran to the subway this morning from my house (1.5 miles). I hope my pall bearers appreciate my effort to lighten their load.

I only need to grow one more inch taller to reach a "normal" BMI.
 

---

Posted by doublechinner on :
 
That's awesome, Caroline! You and Scott are a very inspirational duo.

I managed to lose another pound this week, which I am delighted by, since the week included a visit to the Chicago Simpson's Kwik-E-Mart for a Squishee, lunch at a Lithuanian restaurant and my wife's birthday dinner at the neighborhood Italian joint.

Caroline, I agree that I am not missing things I thought I couldn't do without. I do so love cheese, but I haven't missed it as much as I thought I would.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I weighed in this morning at 190: Same as last week. This is only the second time since I've been on WW that I haven't lost any weight. Of course, it was also the only week I ever maxed out my weekly points.

At least I haven't gained any.
 

---

Posted by Lad Boy on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Saturn Girl:
I never, ever thought I could give up the regular sodas [...]


I have finally stopped craving my three times a week giant frozen chocolate coffees from Starbucks. [...]


When Scott started watching his blood sugar in May, I was still sneaking Cokes while he was at work. But I felt so guilty, and eventually so stupid for being stubborn, that I quit and switched to Diet Coke with Splenda. [...]


I owe all of this to Scott. His instantaneous commitment to change after the doctor told him about his diabetes and blood pressure has truely been amazing and I am just in awe of his willpower and determination.

---

I went from 5 or 6 cokes a day to zero on Easter Sunday 2006. The turning point for me was my daughter's taking an interest in my coke. I couldn't stand the hypocrisy of saying "no, it's not good for you."

I gave up my 3 or 4 humongous frozen mocha coffee drinks Easter 2007, plus almost all sweetened soft drinks. I still have a bottled white tea every other day or so. This was easier than I thought it would be. The $5/day saving was motivational as was my memory of an older co-worker saying about 15 years ago that I'd put on 25 pounds by the time he retired. He retired two weeks ago and I was about 15 pounds heavier than when he made the remark.

You and Scott keep up the hard work. We want you healthy and posting for another 50 years or so. (When you're in your 90's you can slack off a little.) You're both inspirational.

Hope I meet you one day -- maybe I'll be wearing my size 30 501's from high school. You'll recognize me by the bulging eyes and slightly bluish tint to my skin.
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Weighed myself this morning and I was plesaantly surprised to note that I had lost 7 lbs since my last weigh in.

That's 35 pounds since June. I just need to lose another 30 or so to hit my target.

*is all hopeful*
 

---

Posted by doublechinner on :
 
Another week and another pound lost. May have been 1.5 pounds, but I'll bank the 0.5 for next week in case I need it. It's amazing to actually look forward to getting on the scale.
 

---

Posted by Lad Boy on :
 
Bought a second pair of running shorts.

Ran from home to nearest subway stop this morning and got off one stop before my office -- so to the unaided eye, it looked as if I had run all the way from home. Still a long way to go before I run the whole commute, but I'm closing in slowly.

I'm sort of enjoying running -- especially wearing the flimsy running shorts.

No appreciable weight loss in the past few days, but I've convinced myself it's because of the massive muscle build-up in my (aching) thighs.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Parked in the North 40 of the parking lot this morning and trekked my way to the door, carrying my satchel with two liters of water. And my back wasn't locked up by the time I reached my office. Used to be I couldn't walk from one of the front spots to the front door before my back gave out.

Lost another 2 pounds this week, 44 total since mid-May. Another six to go to hit my first goal (of 12/31) then another 50 after that by SDCC '08. But I think I'll settle for another 25 so I'm not too disappointed.
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Way to go, Scott!

Think we'll need to install straps in the showers at San Diego so we don't slide down the drains?
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Yay, Scott! You are just awesome!

And leave it to Lad Boy! Who else could make dieting sound so--interesting?
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Two more pounds off! I weighed in at 188, which gives me 18 pounds left to lose. I've lost 49 so far.

Now I'm trying to think about exercise. I have a gym membership that I never use. My schedule is not always predictable. I'm thinking of taking up jogging again. I've done well with it before. If I write about it here, I'll probably at least start looking into it.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Way to go John! It makes me cringe to think I weigh nearly twice as much as you do though.

If you go do the exercise it'll make it a lot easier from what I've heard. I figure after I hit my first milestone I may be able to get a good regimen going myself. But no gyms for me. I'd rather just walk around the block with Caroline.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I've been walking a lot myself. Hyvvie and I take at least two 20-minute walks every day. Having a dog is a great incentive for walking.

He may enjoy coming along for a jog too. We'll see.


And don't worry about who weighs what. The important thing is we all weigh less than we did when we started posting to this thread!
 

---

Posted by Lad Boy on :
 
I survived a week of running as part of my commute-- longest running distance so far is about 1.5 miles. My thighs no longer feel like they've been subjected to a medieval torture device.

Starting next week, I up the running part of the commute to about 2 miles -- my goal is to eventually run the whole 6 mile trip one way each day.

Ok, "running" may be a slight exaggeration of my pace.
 

---

Posted by Lad Boy on :
 
Ran the whole DC part of the commute today -- 2.8 miles. I'm lightheaded, dehydrated and begging for merciful Death.

Maybe I'll just go get a big iced, unsweetened coffee.

quote:

---

Originally posted by Blue Battler:
Way to go, Scott! :D

Think we'll need to install straps in the showers at San Diego so we don't slide down the drains? :D :D

---

...but doesn't everyone have straps in their showers for . . .never mind.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I'm not quite up to that yet, but I upped my 20 minutes of walking with Hyvvie this morning to 30 minutes of brisk walking. It's a step towards running/jogging, though we may wait till September to start that so it's not quite so hot in the mornings.

I sure wish the human (and canine) body were low-maintenance.
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Heh, you and me both, Rock. ;-)

But I lost another 3 lbs since my last weigh in!


 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Way to go, Battler!

Of course, the fact that Houston is having its first really hot weather of the summer--we topped 100F yesterday for the first time, through in the humidity and well, it's not pretty--hasn't made the exercising any easier. Fortunately, we only do our walking in the morning or evening, so it's not quite that bad.
 

---

Posted by doublechinner on :
 
My weekly weigh-in this morning revealed 272, -2 pounds since last week, -20 pounds since I started WW 11 weeks ago. That's an average of 1.8 pounds per week. I'm just amazed. I feel like if I can lose 20 pounds, I can lose the 100 I have targeted. I thought this would be insurmountably hard, but it's turned out to be well within my grasp. I didn't think I would have the willpower, but every week my will gets a little stronger.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I weighed in this morning and have, as of today, lost 51 pounds! I got my 50-pound star on WeightWatchers.com!

Next week will be six months since I started.

Sixteen pounds to go! Woohoo!
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Congrats John! Way to go!
 

---

Posted by mechana on :
 
You guys are all doing so well!!! Good for you!!

I wish I could say the same. Unfortunately my weight loss efforts have been on hold for the past few weeks. I have been battling a bronchial infection for over 3 weeks! I'm at the point where I'd give just about anything to feel well again.

I've been too sick to walk to the store for groceries, so I've been living on take out pizza and whatever I can find in the pantry!

I'm actually missing and craving fresh, healthy food! Hopefully I'll feel up to shopping soon so I can rejoin you all.
 

---

Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I was weighed at the doctor's office yesterday and was appalled with myself.

Despite my recent effort to get back on track, I quickly backslid again.

Hopefully as of today, that's reversed. I'm tallying up my daily points again, as that seemed to be my most successful diet plan.

I'm also revisiting Dottie's Weight-Loss Zone again for inspiration, information and eating ideas.

I've GOT to do something!
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I love Dottie's!!! It makes eating out so much easier!
The Generic Food site is another helpful site for WW folks. It lists the Points values of most fresh foods.

And, I agree, WW seems to work best. Keep at it, folks!
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Lost another 3 pounds this week.

I have now broken the 40 lb. barrier!
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
How're you feeling, Ronda? Any better?
 

---

Posted by doublechinner on :
 
Hope you are well again, Ronda. There really has been a nasty upper respiratory virus making the rounds this summer. It gave my 5-year-old croup, which entailed another visit to the ER when he said "I can't breathe." One of our neighbors was hospitalized, and my wife and I were in pretty puny shape for a few weeks.

I somewhat miraculously lost another 2 pounds this week. I say miraculous because what has been happening the last several weeks is this: I weight myself on Monday and show a 1-2 pound loss. Then, through the week, my weight rises by 3-4 pounds, only to drop a lot on Saturday and Sunday, so that by the next Monday I have a net loss. It's weird. It's like the best thing I can do to lose weight is just go to sleep on a Sunday night! But since it has happened a few weeks in a row now, I'm confident that real weight loss is still occuring despite all the intra-week volatility.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Good going, guys!

DC, I usually only weigh myself on weigh-in day, which for me is Wednesday. I think if I weighed myself more frequently I'd get really obsessive about it.

The important thing, though, is that the weight is coming off. Keep up the good work.
 

---

Posted by mechana on :
 
Well I dragged myself to my WW meeting today. (Last week I was at the doctor's, and the week before I had to leave part way through because of my constant coughing.)

I haven't lost anything for 2 weeks, but I'm okay with that since I wasn't putting any effort into it. You get what you give and all that.

On the way home I picked up some yogurt and fruit and veg, etc., so i have high hopes for next week!
 

---

Posted by mechana on :
 
And thanks for the get well wishes Pov and DC. Unfortunately I don't think I have a virus (according to the doctor a viral infection runs it's course in about a week). I've been battling this cough and chest congestion for a month now, and it's possible I may have developed asthma. Waiting for my regular doctor to get back from holidays. I went to a clinic but that's like drive thru medicine: I had a diagnosis and a prescription in under 2 minutes, and I'm not really comfortable with that!
 

---

Posted by doublechinner on :
 
Ronda,

Prolonged coughs are difficult to both diagnose and treat. My sister-in-law has been dealing with the same thing for a few years, now. It's often hard to determine if it's asthma, chronic bronchitis or something else (which could be anything from an allergy to a prolonged infection).

Sometimes viral coughs DO linger for a long time--your body develops a reaction to the infection that persists after the virus has run its course--like a groove on a record that the needle can't get out of (how's that for an old-fashioned analogy!). You will hear doctors call this reactive airway disease (RAD), which is really a kind of asthma caused by an infection instead of an allergen or chemical irritant. If it is RAD, a course of inhaler treatment will usually clear it up. My son has this, btw. He doesn't get asthma from allergies (thank god!) but at least twice a year a virus will stimulate this RAD cough and we give him his "teddy bear game" (the inhaler spacer tube has a teddy bear on it).

I hope you get some good medical care and get well. Good luck!
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Ronda, I hope you're well soon. It's important to take care of your overall health before you worry about weight loss.

I lost one more pound this week. Fifty-two down and 15 to go!
 

---

Posted by Lad Boy on :
 
I'm normal, for the first time in 5 years, I'm normal -- at least in the context of BMI. I must give the House Labor and Education Committee credit for making an inquiry to our agency that has taken up my most of meal times to respond to. Who says Congress is good for nothing?

Time to celebrate with a big . . . unsweetened, iced coffee and the scent of someone else's orange-cranberry muffin.

Congrats RhL and DblC!
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I just bought some new jeans and a two pairs of pants (trousers for those on the other side of the pond ). When I started the diet six months ago, I was in a 44 waist. My new pants are both 38. I tried on a 36 on one of them, and it fit okay, but it was just a bit snug. I figured if they're a little loose it's probably better, so I went with the 38.

The other pair were grey and there was no 36 in that style. For some reason grey is next to impossible to find for dress-casual pants. I can't really wear khaki. No matter how much weight I lose, khaki makes my butt look enormous!

The 36 fit well for the jeans, so I went with that.

I wish losing weight weren't get so expensive, but it's great to have to spend this money.
 

---

Posted by mechana on :
 
Down 1 lb. this week, for a total of 45 so far.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Yay Ronda!

I'm down two more myself, so that's 54 down with 13 to go! This week will be tough, with my birthday and all, but I'll do my best.
 

---

Posted by doublechinner on :
 
I was on vacation for a week, but still managed to lose a pound, despite some rather fine meals. Some really fine meals. But, I was probably alot more active too (swimming, hiking, luggage-schlepping).
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
You're all doing great! Me, I haven't lost a pound in weeks. But I haven't gained either. Stuck at 44 pounds. Just wish I could lose that last six so I could move on to my second goal.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
One more pound off this morning! That's 55 down, twelve to go!
 

---

Posted by Caliente on :
 
Okay, so I've decided that now that I can't fit into at least half of my pants, it's time to accept the fact that maybe I can't actually eat anything I want with no consequences.

This is a sad realization at 20 and, honestly, if I were older I think I'd kick out alcohol. Unfortunately, I'm not, so I've decided to create an online journal to track what I'm eating. It might not count as dieting exactly, but I have set calorie goals and things like that.

Anyway, part two of the plan involves running and swimming. My motivation is pathetic but I thought, maybe, if I said something to someone (or on the board or whatever) I'd feel guilty about not doing it later. Or, possibly, actually do it. We'll see...
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Good for you, Beth!

I know what you mean about posting. Posting to this thread has sort of taken the place of the traditional Weight Watchers meeting for me. After I weigh myself and record on the WW site, I post it here! I think it makes me take it more seriously knowing that I have this group for support and encouragement.

I'm sure you'll have good things to report soon.
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Last week I didn't lose anything, but this week I'm down another three pounds. That brings my total lost to 48 so far.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Like I said, I haven't lost anything in weeks. But I was feeling better this week, lighter if that's possible. And the shirt I wore yesterday to work I haven't been able to wear since SDCC in '04, even then only as an over-shirt. This time I could button it up all the way with plenty of breathing room. Even the bottom button which is usually a problem for me on my shirts.

So with trepidation I stepped on the scale today. And I lost four pounds this week! With all the traveling we did since I last weighed and road food I actually lost weight.

With that four I'm up to 48 pounds, 2 pounds from my first goal. Come hell or high water I'm going to hit that mark this week.
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Woot!

Good luck, buddy.
 

---

Posted by Caliente on :
 
Based on the journal so far, I may have to cut alcohol out of my diet for real. This is very disappointing. I'm not even 21 yet! That or figure out a way to cut down on food. (But I love to eat! Argh.)
 

---

Posted by Tamper Lad on :
 
Whatever happened to those days I used to have 3000 calories based on beer alone.
 

---

Posted by Pov on :
 
I'm still a fat lump.

I'm just here to make you all look good.

I'm hoping to weigh in on my doctor's visit (routine) on Monday... I haven't been weighed since I left rehab, where they have scales to accomodate being in a 'chair. I don't think I'm steady enough to stand long enough on a standard doctor's scale. We'll see.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Go, Scott, go!

Keep up the good work, everyone!
 

---

Posted by Lard Lad on :
 
I sometimes wonder if I'll ever lose weight and keep it off! I go through spells where I'm doing so good, but then I hit a wall where I'm tempted and go back to the old eating habits and gain it all back, usually with interest...

Why does food have to be so good?
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Lard Lad:
I sometimes wonder if I'll ever lose weight and keep it off! I go through spells where I'm doing so good, but then I hit a wall where I'm tempted and go back to the old eating habits and gain it all back, usually with interest...

Why does food have to be so good?

---

Don't beat yourself up over it, Anthony. I, and I expect everyone on this thread, totally understand where you are. I've done very well with Weight Watchers, as have some of the other folks here, and others have done well with other plans.

I know for me the time had to be right. I was inspired by a dear friend who is in his late 50s who lost over 100 pounds last year.

Whatever you do, you have the love and support of your Legion World family.

My good news today is while Hyvvie and I were out for our walk this morning, we jogged for one block. Eventually I hope we will do more of that. Hyvvie's not really big, so the vet said he shouldn't run more than three miles and I don't think I could either. Eventually I'd like to get up to where we both can do three miles. BTW, Hyvvie has lost seven pounds in the last six months. The vet told me he needed to lose weight also. When I brought him in for his six-month checkup a few weeks ago, she told me he was just about at the right weight!
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Two more pounds off this week! Fifty-seven down and ten to go! This crowd will appreciate this! The first thing I thought of when I saw today's weight was "I now weigh the same as Ray Palmer!"
 

---

Posted by doublechinner on :
 
I've put off posting that I actually gained a pound this past week. I think I've more or less come to terms with it. I imagine just coming back to work from vacation and being both less active and more exhausted (2 weeks with my mother would put most people in an early grave) is the main culprit. Unlike most recent weekends, I slept most of the past weekened away, avoiding projects and errand running that keep me active.

It's a reminder that I need to get to the gym and start doing something regularly. I'm so damn cheap about some things that the hardest part about starting at the gym is writing the check for the membership fee.
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Just weighed myself.

I have now lost 51 pounds!

Go me!


 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Here I am, blurry, but 57 pounds slimmer than I was in February. Those are the 44-inch waist pants I wore when I started. The 38s I'm wearing now are getting loose!


 

---

Posted by doublechinner on :
 
All of you are an inspiration. As of this AM, I re-lost the pound I re-gained last week. It seems that every 10 pounds my weight loss slows down and flatten out for awhile. I am also now comfortably back into my 44-waist pants, which makes me very happy. I'm delighted to be where Rockhopper started out!
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
One more pound down! I've lost 58 with nine to go!

My mother is coming to visit a week from Friday and we do plan to enjoy ourselves while she's here, "but not overdo it". So, my loss might get slowed down a little in early October, but I think it will be okay.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I have to share my latest discovery: Egg Beaters, prepared in Pam Cooking Spray and sprayed with a little I Can't Believe It's Not Butter Spray. You have scrambled eggs with one WW Point! Morningstar Farms Veggie Bacon is one Point for two strips, two for four. Eggs and "bacon" (I don't eat pork anyway) for just three Points! I love dieting in the 21st Century!
 

---

Posted by doublechinner on :
 
Egg Beaters are a great option. There are some nice things you can do with them too -- use them to make fritattas and stratas and such. I used to eat eggs regularly on the weekend, but have developed some sort of aversion to them, related to regularly getting an upset tummy after eating them (no, I don't think it was salmonella, they were thoroughly cooked). All the better from the dieting perspective. I am feeling very energized this week. After the post-vacation adjustments, I think I am back in the weight loss groove. My wife has also started Weight Watchers online. She seems to be having a harder time than I did getting into the groove with it, but from a selfish perspective it can only help me eat better. I need to find some way to be helpful and encouraging that she doesn't interpret as being bossy and meddling.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Sicker than a dog the last couple of days, really bad right now, but I had to weigh in. Lost three pounds since Tuesday so I hit my first mark. At 51 pounds lost since mid-May. Now to lose another 59 by SDCC next year.

Maybe if I nurse this fever a little longer I can lose another five pounds this weekend.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Yay, Scott!!! I'm very proud of you! Fifty pounds is a major achievement.

Take care of yourself, though. Remember that your overall health is more important than weight loss at a time like this. I hope you're feeling better soon.


 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Grats, Scott!
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Thanks guys.

Was real sick yesterday and actually wound up calling off this morning. Just woke up about 45 minutes ago. Lost another three pounds since Sunday. I'll be glad when I'm feeling better but I'll miss losing the extra weight.

1 more pound and I'm at the halfway mark.
 

---

Posted by doublechinner on :
 
Take care of youself, Scott! But you should be very proud. We are.

I reached the 25-pound mark yesterday, 1/4 of the way to where I want to be. I'm finally starting to feel lighter and more energetic. I walk faster, farther, etc., so hopefully that will be a positive feedback.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
All right, DC!

This morning, I weighed in at 177. I've lost sixty pounds since February. Put another way, I have dropped more than one quarter of my starting body weight!

Seven to go!

Of course, my vacation starts Friday and my mom will be here for two weeks. If I can maintain while she's here, that will be fine. I can finish up after she leaves.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Congrats to both DC and John! I'm striving to catch up with you John but I don't think I want to stay sick to do it.

Caroline and I were talking last night about our weight loss and I got to thinking. We've lost enough to lose a grade school kid. Or Nicole Ritchie or one of the Olsen twins.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
That's funny. A few more pounds and my friend who lost 100+ pounds last year and I together will have lost me!
 

---

Posted by mechana on :
 
You guys are doing so great!

I'm sorry to say that I've been utterly and completely off the wagon for about a month now, and I'm afraid to go anywhere near a scale.
 

---

Posted by mechana on :
 
Well I bravely went back to WW this week after a one month absence. I gained back 2.5 lbs, but I hope to blitz that off this week and get back on track again.
 

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Posted by KryptonKid on :
 
OK, gang. I'm back. I have been in a wonderful relationship of co-habitation and bliss, so naturally we've both gained a bunch of weight. I need to lose at least 20 lbs.


 

---

Posted by Lad Boy on :
 
I ran to work this morning -- 6 miles -- not enough strength left to drag my sweaty self to scales in the gym.
 

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Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
I lost another 3 pounds this week. That brings my total weight lost up to 58 pounds.


I went to the doctor last week, and it seems like my weight loss has been paying off.

My diabetes is doing much better. For those of you who knows what this means, I went from an A1C of 12 in early June to an A1C of 4.6 by 09/27. My cholesterol is much better too.

My original goal was aobut another 15 pounds, but to hit where I should be at in terms of BMI the doctor told me I should be at, we're talkinga about another 30 pounds...

We'll see. Gotta keep plugging away!
 

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Posted by Caliente on :
 
Wow, congrats BB! That's really great.

I still don't own a scale (I'm seriously afraid); however, I have been monitoring my calorie intake. And I feel like I'm looking a bit slimmer, at least. That has to mean something, right?

Now, if only I could kick the booze and start working out. Then I'd be golden. I'm really going to try to start running and stuff soon. I know I can do it if I just put a little effort into it...
 

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Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
I weighed myself this morning and I had lost my 60th pound!
 

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Posted by doublechinner on :
 
60 pounds is awesome! I am almost to 30; at -27 as of yesterday. The last couple of weeks have been hard -- much sickness and parental responsibilities. I can totally understand how single parenting can lead to weight gain! Still managed to lose a pound last week and a pound this week. I would be thrilled to keep up a pace of 1 pound/week. It will take awhile to get to my ultimate goal, but I think I stand a better chance of keeping the weight off.
 

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Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Yes, DC.

The dietician I went to told me that a person shouldn't lose more than about 2- 2 1/2 pounds a week, so even if it takes you longer losing at one pound a week isn't a bad thing at all.
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
All right, BB! You should be very pretty of yourself!

I made it to 60 pounds a few weeks ago, but my mom and I had an agreement while she's been here: no diet (we've both been dieting for a while and have lost a lot of weight), but she goes home today so I'll be back on the ol' wagon ! Honestly, the break has been nice, but it will be nice to get back on program too.

I've been keeping up my exercising as best I can. I've increased the amount of joging my morning walk with Hyvvie includes a little bit almost every day.

I'll weigh win Wednesday and we'll see what's up (or rather how much it's up ), but, again, I'm not too concerned. If I've gained any, it will come off pretty quickly--I hope!
 

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Posted by mechana on :
 
Woohoo, down 5 lbs over the last 2 weeks. I'm just 2 lbs away from a 50 lb loss. That will feel good, though I still have more to lose... It's taken me nearly a year to get this far, and I wish I had accomplished more so far, but it's my own fault; I did some serious slacking off for a few months.

It would be nice if it all melted away overnight, but as my WW leader often says: there is no such thing as it taking "too long". The time is going to pass anyway, so as long as you're weight is going down, it's all good. (She would put it more eloquently than I have!)
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
Congratulations, Ronda, and the rest of you! Excellent work!
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Rockhopper Lad:
All right, BB! You should be very pretty of yourself!

---

Proud! I swear I meant proud!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
And I gained two pounds over my vacation. I'm not too concerned. I've still lost a net total of 58 pounds so far and I have only nine pounds to go to my target weight.

I don't regret taking the vacation, though. My mom and I had lots of fun while she was visiting and we went to several restaurants I almost never go to (BTW, Houston has some of the best restaurants in the US).

Vacation is vacation and this is real life, so back to real life I go!
 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Been weary of weighing in the last two weeks with everything else going on. Diet and nutrition hasn't been high on my list.

So I decided to weigh tonight after work (just felt lighter) and, to my amazement I had lost two pounds! After knowing that I had to have gained at least five or more since Mom passed I was floored.

Put me down at being 56 pounds lighter since May. 54 more to go to reach my real target for SDCC next year. Maybe I can crack 300 and get back down to my high school weight of about 265-280.
 

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Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Congrats, Scott!
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Another week and I'm down another couple of pounds.


 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Good going Thomas!

I decided to start my weighing in again on my official day so I weighed this morning. Down another pound. 57 and counting.
 

---

Posted by doublechinner on :
 
Scott, I am so sorry about your mom. Grief by definition is overpowering, but sometimes it's also a spur to take care of yourself as part of your own healing process. I hope you and yours are doing OK.

I have been a total laggard in the weight loss department. I have managed to hold constant at 265 the last couple of weeks, but it's like treading water. I need to get re-energized to track points and get more exercise. I did a real weekend warrior house work blitz last Sunday and could barely walk for most of this week. I still can't seem to shake these cold symptoms, although they are not as bad as a couple of weeks ago.
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I'm back at 177, where I was before vacation. That's a total of 60 pounds down since February, with seven pounds left. I hope to hit my target weight by Thanksgiving. We'll just see.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Adding to that, I guess I'm now a real jogger. The past couple mornings I've gone out wearing only a cap, a thermal shirt, shorts, socks and sneakers, in 50F weather!

And, if I may say so myself, I don't look half-bad in the shorts!
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
As of this morning, I've lost my 65th pound.
 

---

Posted by mechana on :
 
I'm up 1.8 lbs this week.

I've done a ton of walking over the past few weeks, but clearly not enough to offset all the crap I've been eating. Time to get serious again!
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
One more pound down! I'm at 176: that's 61 down and six to go!
 

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Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
This is where it starts to get hard for me. I lost about a pound this week. That puts me at about 194. The lowest I've ever weighed as an adult is 190, so I'm not going to be too surprised if I can't get down to the weight the doctor told me was appropriate for me: 175.

But man, I was sick as a dog yesterday and not much better this morning, so maybe that's why this was a slow week for me...
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
BB, according to the charts I saw, my "ideal weight" rage was 130 to 158. I don't think I could ever get that low and stay there. You have to do what feels right for you. The point is to be healthy and comfortable with who you are. If neither of us ever gets to an "ideal" weight, we'll both still be better off than if we lost no weight at all!

Of course I still see myself as being heavy and when I look in the mirror, I'm actually surprised at how slender the man in the reflection is. It will take me a long time to get used to that, but I guess it's not a bad problem to have.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Two more pounds off this week! Sixty-three down and four to go to my target weight of 170.
 

---

Posted by KryptonKid on :
 
You're doing great, RL! Almost there!


 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
I seem to have made up for last week's only losing one pound by losing three this week.


Go me!
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Good going, BB!

Yesterday I went to IKEA to spend a gift card I got for my birthday. I walked back to the car with a big IKEA tote bag on my shoulder that had a set of dishes, a new lamp and shade and new dog dishes. As I was walking I realized that not long ago, I would have been carrying at least that much weight inside!
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
And two more pounds off today! I've lost 65 pounds since February. I now weigh 172 pounds. My target weight is 170. Just two more pounds! I'm gonna try to get there next week!
 

---

Posted by mechana on :
 
Good for you RL! You are doing so well!

My home scale said I was down 1.6 this week, but the official WW weigh in said I was the same. Must. Try. Harder. I'm tired of this plateau. I feel as though I've wasted months gaining and losing the same few pounds. So, holding at -47 lbs...
 

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Posted by Invisible Brainiac on :
 
The plateau's always the toughest part, so I've heard. I've been at mine for three or so years Granted, I don't think I'm trying that hard though.

You can do it, guys and gals!!
 

---

Posted by Wild Cobalt on :
 
Rocky, what have you been doing?! That's awesome! Congrats buddy!

You too Mechana! Tons of impressive-ness going on.

Me...I've hit a setback. So much has been going on in my life lately that working out and eating healthy (I never really 'dieted' per se) have taken a back seat. I'm not back up to where I started when I lost all that weight 1 and 1/2 years ago, but I'm about half-way there. So on Monday I started anew and we'll see what happens. I'm feeling optimistic though...things have started to slow down and I'm not where I was when I was at my worst...

So what specifically have you been doing Rocky? Running? That's what really helped me (among other things). That's what I need to do the most at this point, knowing my body.
 

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Posted by KryptonKid on :
 
I think I need a diet buddy.

760-365-5927
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Wild Cobalt:
So what specifically have you been doing Rocky? Running? That's what really helped me (among other things). That's what I need to do the most at this point, knowing my body.

---

I've been on the Weight Watchers online plan since February. I don't go to meetings (who has time?). I just weigh myself once a week and record it online. There's also a "Points tracker" to keep tabs on how much I've been eating.

As for exercise, I started out by taking longer walks with Hyvvie twice every day. Now we run most mornings and walk in the evening. Having a dog has been very helpful. He needs to be walked anyway, so we both get exercise.
 

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Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Hm. I'm surprised. Didn't change my routine or workout, but I managed to lose 5 pounds this week instead of my usual two.

I weighed myself three times to be sure, but I came out at 186. That's the thinnest I've been in my entire adult life, I believe.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Congrats, BB! Doesn't it feel great?
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
And I weighed in at 170! Nine months to the day--and 67 pounds--after I started, I've met my target weight! Woo-hoo!

 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Grats, Rocky!
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Weighed myself this morning.

I lost about a pound, I think.

Not my best week ever, but I'm already lower than I thought I'd possibly hit, so any progress is good progress.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Losing a pound Thanksgiving week is a major achievement! Good going, BB!

I'm on maintenance now and, I'm proud to say, I am still at 170 after a week--which included quite a bit of culinary indulgence on Thanksgiving Day and the day after.
 

---

Posted by Caliente on :
 
I weighed myself when I was at home (before Thanksgiving) and I'd lost ten pounds, which made me happy. Unfortunately, I think I may have gained some of it back. But I'm on track again... mostly.
 

---

Posted by Quisjorge on :
 
I'm as fat as ever! Not good. Been working out alot though and am strong as a bear but it's still not pretty.

Anyways, Kashi frozen foods are pretty good and usually only about 300 calories each.
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Lost another 2 pounds this week. Only about another 11 to go!
 

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Posted by mechana on :
 
Sigh. So with the exception of half a pizza on Saturday, I've done my best to be as good as can be this week, in an effort to break out of this yo yo cycle of losses and gains I've been on.

I couldn't make my meeting this morning because of a snow storm, but my home scale says I'm UP 3 lbs!

I know you have to just ride out the bad times, but man, it's lucky I'm snowed in or I'd be heading out for a pint of Haagen Daaz right about now. :-(
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Two weeks on maintenance and I'm still holding steady at 170!

And big for Ronda! Hang in there!
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Good job, Rocky!

I was 178 pounds this morning. 8 more to my goal!


 

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Posted by Ultra Jorge on :
 
Found an old exercise that works great! Jump roping! I used to be really good at it back in high school. I picked up last week and love it.

It's a bit addicting. I like better than jogging.
 

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Posted by Caliente on :
 
I went to the doctor yesterday, and I was... disappoint but not surprised. I'm down from where I was but up a couple pounds from my pre-Thanksgiving weight.

It might be time to start exercising. I mean, after finals week.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Three weeks and I'm still holding at 170!

Blue, you're hot on my heels! And I'll tell you, 170 is great! I can't wait for you to join me here!

Hang in there, Cali. This is the hardest time of the year for dieting. I have holiday parties every day between now and Sunday. I hope I can maintain this week.
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Thanks, Rocky.

Didn't make much progress on that this week though.

Only down about a pound.

But that's not too bad.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Somehow with all the holiday parties this week, I not only didn't gain weight, but I actually lost a pound! I weighed in this morning at 169!

Next week, I'll be visiting my folks in Florida from Christmas Day till the 30th and there will be no diet then, but we'll just see how things go!
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Weighed myself this morning.

175 pounds.
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Rats.

No weight loss this week.

On the other hand, no weight gained.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Well, I managed to get through Christmas and New Year's without gaining everything back. I did gain a few pounds, but I'm back on Weight Watchers, so I expect that will be gone soon.

Now I'm thinking about what's next. This year I think I'd like to work on my upper body. I've lost weight, but above the waist I'm still flabbier than I'd like. I know with my current schedule, getting to a gym would be very difficult--not to mention the fact that they make me very uncomfortable: it's like being in junior high school all over again! So, I'm going to see what I can do on my own.
 

---

Posted by mechana on :
 
Good Grief! I somehow managed to gain 12 lbs during December! Thank goodness I've hit my chocolate saturation point!

But I've doing my best to be good since the 31st, and I'm already down 5 lbs, so that's a relief. Hopefully the rest comes off as quickly and I can move on to "virgin" fat.

Rocky, I've decided to give the WW Core plan a try. I usually do Flex because I need to know I can have whatever I want, but I'm so sick of weighing and measuring! We'll see if I can stick with Core long enough to get a little kick start.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
You are all doing well. Even you, Ronda, getting right back into it after the holidays.

I've not posted since mom passed as my weight loss basically stopped. I kept losing and gaining the same damn 10 pounds.

Over the last week, though, I finally think I hit the threshold and started staying stable, losing a bit. Today I lost another two pounds and finally passed the 70 pound mark for my loss. 71 pounds since the end of May.
 

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Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Grats again, buddy!

As for me, I weighed myself this morning, and I finally got my weight down past 175! D:

Granted, I'm at 173, maybe 174 ... but I'm under that darn 5 pound marker!

The doctor is letting me try lowering my medication for my diabetes too!
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Good going, everyone!

I haven't gone running since before Christmas--a combination of my vacation and having a slight cold and a short spell of freezing weather (we're just not ready for that in Houston ). It's 62F today and I feel fine, so Hyvvie (who is five years old today, BTW ) and I are about to head out!
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
An e-mail forwarded by my Mom--

After Christmas
==========

'Twas the week after Christmas, and all through the house
Nothing would fit me, not even a blouse.
The cookies I'd nibbled, the eggnog I'd taste
At the holiday parties had gone to my waist.

When I got on the scales there arose such a number!
When I walked to the store (less a walk than a lumber).
I'd remember the marvelous meals I'd prepared;
The gravies and sauces and beef nicely rared,

The wine and the rum balls, the bread and the cheese

And the way I'd never said, "No thank you, please."
As I dressed myself in my husband's old shirt
And prepared once again to do battle with dirt.

I said to myself, as I only can
"You can't spend a winter disguised as a man!"
So away with the last of the sour cream dip,
Get rid of the fruit cake, every cracker and chip.

Every last bit of food that I like must be banished
"Till all the additional ounces have vanished.
I won't have a cookie - not even a lick.
I'll want only to chew on a long celery stick.

I won't have hot biscuits, or corn bread, or pie,
I'll munch on a carrot and quietly cry.
I'm hungry, I'm lonesome, and life is a bore
But isn't that what January is for?

Unable to giggle, no longer a riot.
Happy New Year to all and to all a good diet............
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Oh, that's adorable, Pov!

Thanks!

I just weighed in and I'm back at 170! I will confess that, deep down, I'm afraid of gaining it all back, but I seem to have settled into this weight. I hope!
 

---

Posted by mechana on :
 
Officially went back to WW on Tuesday, after about a 6 week absence. I'm up 1.8 from my last November weigh-in, but way down from my New Year's Eve high of +12! So that's good. Being totally stressed is a helluva appetite suppressant. But I wouldn't recommend it.
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Weighed myself this morning, and I lost a little more weight. I'm around 171 or 172 now. So close to my goal ...
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I'm still holding at 170. I'll meet you here soon, BB!

It's nice to be settled in at a healthy weight. It's nice also to be able to treat myself once in a while and truly understand that it's a treat and not an everyday food. The other night I went out with friends and we went to Marble Slab and I had real ice cream! It was so good, but I'm at a point now where I love myself at this weight more than I love the ice cream. There are plenty of low-calorie treats that can fill in on a more regular basis.

I can't say enough good things about WW. It's really fabulous!
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
170!
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Huzzah! Huzzah!

Welcome to 170, BB! It's a great place to be!

I've taken a few days off and I was going through old clothes. I've gathered up all my pants (trousers if any of our friends across the pond are reading ) that don't fit me any more. I have 11 pairs of 38s, 40s and 42s to donate to charity. I'm keeping the 44s for inspiration.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
And I'm still at 170 this week!
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Weighed myself this morning.

I actually lost another 2 pounds.

168!
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Hit 80 pounds lost this morning, only two days after my goal date of the end of January. Next up; 100 pounds by the first anniversary of my new lifestyle, May 31.
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Way to go Scott!
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Congratulations, Scott! I know this has been a rough year for you and Caroline and the fact that you've been able to stick to it through it all says a lot about you.

<Coke Zero.
 

---

Posted by Suddenly Seymour on :
 
Congratulations, everyone!

After trying unsuccessfully going on my own, I finally decided to try WW. My hubby's mom did great on it, and I think having a specific structure and someone to be held accountable to will help.

Today's my first full day on the program, and it looks like I'm gonna make it fine, though it was tough passing up that pizza that came into work today.

The doctor gave me target of 185. I'll probably shoot lower than that and try to get some back in muscle mass by starting to work out. I want to be in costume shape for San Diego!
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Welcome to the club Seymour and thanks guys! Still holding steady at 340. But Caroline and I started walking today to kick start losing more. The weather finally cleared up enough. Still a ton of snow on the ground (literally) but temps in the 40's. Walked a full mile which I haven't done willingly since SDCC in 2004.

We are going to try and walk, weather permitting, at least three nights a week. I'll have to see what I can build off of that for exercise.

Assuming we do make it to SDCC this year I want to be below 300.
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Yay Seymour! Are you attending meetings or are you doing WW online as I have?

All the best with it!
 

---

Posted by Suddenly Seymour on :
 
I'm doing WW meetings at work. In one of the few pluses of my health insurance, we get a discount. And they started a Tuesday meeting (previously it was Wednesday afternoons when I go comic booking with a friend), so I thought I'd be foolish to pass up the opportunity.

This weekend was my first time grocery shopping with my WW calculator. Dang -- so much "healthy" stuff isn't that good on the point system since it takes into account all fat. And I discovered an odd loophole with breakfast cereals. There's something about the high-fiber, good-for-you cereals that makes them relatively high in calories, so a bowl of Marshmallow Fruit Loops (2 cups) is actually fewer points than a bowl of Wheat Chex or Multigrain Chex (4 for FL, 6 for WC).

I won't be stocking up on sugar cereals, though. That just seems wrong. I even double checked it with nutrition info on the Internet when I got home. I'm going to ask what cereals WW recommends because I just can't stand oatmeal, which is what the hubby's mom eats.
 

---

Posted by Suddenly Seymour on :
 
Woo hoo!

With no more daily trips to the vending machine for a bag of Famous Amos cookies, I lost 5 pounds my first week!

I feel like baking now.
 

---

Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Hey Fitness Nuts! I'm BAAAACK! I was just re-reading the first few pages of this thread, back in '04 when I was posting on here all the time, during the fitness challenge at work. Well, it's back and I'm signed up again.

Without going into all the details, a couple of weeks ago I was 204 pounds and I'm now 200. It's all about portion control and the elyptical machine!

I'm going to finish reading the rest of the thread and see what everyone else is up to. I do believe a certain one Lightning Lad has had some impressive results...
 

---

Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Just finished doing a quick read over the whole thread. First of all, I crack my own self up! Back in '04-'06, my schedule was a major factor in my health and fitness. Kids all day and work all night made for terrible food choices and too much drinky drinky!

Since then, I've switched to the good ol' 9 to 5 work week and it's pretty much forced me to eat right and drink WAY less. The thing is, I haven't been working out at ALL and I'm sitting at a desk most of the day. Hence the 204 pounds. So, since the food and drink is in check, I'll be going to the gym in the evening. I have to wait until 9pm, so I'll go then or at 10 or even 11 if I have to. I just can't get up any earlier in the morning to go then.

I congratulate those of you who have had such great results. I hope to join you!
 

---

Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I've only been to the gym at night one time since that post. However, the portion control is still happening right. I do crunches and push ups here at home pretty regularly, and stretch.

I weigh myself at the gym since the scale there is consistent, so since I haven't been there, I don't know today's weight.
 

---

Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
Just finished our Sunday walk. Thought I'd show everyone how Caroline looks when we go out (with her permission).

She prefers the bigger headphones to keep out the cold.


 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Caroline looks so cute!

Yesterday my friend Tom and I went for brunch at an Indian restaurant that has a buffet on Sundays. All the time I was on weight reduction, I had refused to go there, saying I did not want to be tempted with a buffet. We've been going there for years, so the waitstaff all pretty much know us. One of the waiters gasped upon realizing who I was saying "I thought you were a different person!" The owner was so impressed with my loss--and my restraint--that he gave me a discount!
 

---

Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Looking good, Caroline!
 

---

Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I started Weight Watchers one year ago today and I'm still at my target weight three months after hitting it! It's been a very interesting year. I learned so much and I'm so glad I did it!
 

---

Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I went from 204 to 194, which was great. Now, I seem to fluctuate between 195 and 200.

I do not seem to be making it to the gym. However, my portion control discipline is in place. I've taken some major walks recently. That helps.
 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
You've done great John. I only hope that once I hit my target weight I can stay there.

Just keep it up Dean. I know how hard it is, especially trying to get the exercise part in. But I've found just getting some walking in goes a long way.

Dropped another few pounds, now at 86 total. 14 more to go by May 31. I hope I can hit that before then because there's another 20 I want to lose before SDCC this year. Five months (roughly) to lose 34 more pounds.
 

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Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Just got back from the doctor's office.

I've lost more than 100 pounds since I was diagnosed with diabetes in June 2007.

Doctor's scales had me at 162 today.
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
Wow, BB-- that's awesome. Congrats!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Just curious, how many of us had weight problems as children? I was overweight as far back as I can remember. In fact, I think the last time I weighed what I do now was when I was about eleven!

Actually, it's kind of funny. When friends complain that they wish they were built as they were in high school, I can truthfully say that I don't!
 

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Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
I was skinny as a rail up until the 2nd or 3rd Grade and then I just ballooned. I don't really know why. I guess I became lazy.
 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 
I was a size 34 all the way through high school and skinny as a kid. It wasn't until I graduated and started working full time that I started gaining weight.

Of course it is the last 16 years as a married man that I gained the most. Fat and happy they call it.
 

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Posted by Suddenly Seymour on :
 
Whoops -- haven't checked in here in a while. Congrats to everyone! Those are some great losses.

I got my 10-pound ribbon a couple weeks ago and lost a little more after that. I have a feeling I'll be staying even at this week's weigh-in, if I don't gain. I kind of backslid -- take-out Chinese (lots of points), pizza, McDonald's -- all the stuff I've been missing for two months kinda hit me in a rush.

Whoever said the cravings go away after a while was lying!

And as to Rockhopper's question, I was one of those who could eat anything and stay skinny until about 30. Then I met my chef hubby, and my thyroid started slowing down to the point where I now have to take a supplement.
 

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Posted by Lightning Lad on :
 


I finally hit the 100 pound mark! And more than a month ahead of my goal date. Now to work on getting out of the 300's altogether.
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Congratulations, Scott!!!



It's been a lot of hard work for you and I'm very proud of you.
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
Woohoo! All right, Scooter!

Rocky, I've been big all my life as well.

But I had a semi-pleasant surprise at my last Ty infusion. I haven't been weighed since I got out of the rehab facility last April, when I was closing in on 260 again. But they got my weight last week, and I'm a hair or two over 235. It's mostly just been doing the day-to-day stuff they helped me with in the facility, and not being force-fed three square meals a day.
 

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Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Congratulations, Scott!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I've been avoiding this thread lately. My mom just came for a wonderful six-week visit and she and I decided that we wouldn't diet while she was here. I won't go into the reasons why, but we did it and now I've gained weight. I'm back up to 178 and have started back on Weight Watchers. I'm sure it will be off pretty quickly. I really only have eight pounds to lose. I also have got away from running.

My goal is to be back to my target weight in time for some indulgence in San Diego!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
And, after my first week back on WW, I've lost six pounds! I'm down to 172, so just two pounds left till I'm back on maintenance!

Hyvvie and I just ran as part of our morning walk for the first time since at least February. I missed a whole lot of good running weather--Houston has had the prettiest spring since I've lived here and now we're back to the hot, humid weather everyone loves .

And, Pov, belated congratulations! That's a big achievement!

How's everyone else doing?
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I'm back at 170 and back on maintenance.
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I'm still holding at 170 and I'm planning on not dieting at all while I'm in San Diego--vacation means vacation, after all.
 

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Posted by Saturn Girl on :
 
Just because we are in San Diego won't mean that Scott and I can fall back into our old, self destructive ways. Once Scott found out he was diabetic, he completely turned his back on all the junk food and so called good food that he used to consume mass quantities of. He won't even touch bacon now, and that was something that he used to find a way to have every day. In fact, Scott changing his lifestyle and eating habits (we refuse to say diet because this is for the rest of our lives) was a big factor in his workplace losing the morning 'breakfast lady.' Before May of 2007, Scott used to go down to the breakroom and have four slices of toast and at least a dozen strips of bacon. Then he would go back upstairs and consume at least one 44 oz. regular soda (usually Dr. Pepper or Mountain Dew) throughout the day. He'd grab another one on the way home from work.

For me, my metabolism is a lot slower then Scott's and I've lost only half what he has. I chalk it up to being post-hysterectomy. But my triggers are all chocolate and sugar related, with some salt cravings tossed in to boot. I don't dare fall back into my old ways. (And I fully admit that the chocolate desserts at the Stratosphere Hotel in Vegas are calling me even now.) So Scott and I will be 'on the wagon' and making the most of salads and fresh fruit and vegetarian protein souorces and maybe some lean chicken and fish and praying San Diego embraces the wonder of all things Splenda.

This doesn't mean that we want to cramp anyone else's style! This is just saying that the way we look at this, Scott's (and probably my) lives are on the line in the long run and we dare not fall back into our bad habits. I hope everyone will understand and not think we are being rude when we don't join in on any food, dessert or alcoholic indulgences......

And Rocky, that's just awesome for you dude! Can't wait to see your skinny penguin booty!
 

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Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Caroline,

If you've only lost half of what Scott's lost, that's still 50 pounds. Don't belittle that kind of achievement!


You go girl!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Caroline, my respect for you and Scott already knows no bounds, and this just pushed that boundlessness out further.

There are some things that, even when I'm taking a break from WW, that I still don't eat. I don't drink sugar soda and I never eat beef or pork. I don't call myself a vegetarian because I do eat poultry and seafood on occasion. I haven't had red meat in so long that on the rare occasions that I've accidentally eaten some, I've become quite sick. That stuff is very difficult to digest.

And, when I get back to my day-to-day routine of real life in Houston, it will be back to counting points.
 

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Posted by Saturn Girl on :
 
*blush* thanks guys...... *hugs*
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
All right!!!!

A week in San Diego and still holding at 170!!!

Back on Weight Watchers today for maintenance, then!
 

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Posted by Candle on :
 
I'm just getting started ~ my goal is about 135 so that's about a hundred pounds now.
sigh
Just reading this page has been inspiring, and fun!
Thanks.
 

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Posted by Blue Battler on :
 
Good luck, Candle!
 

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Posted by LardLad on :
 
You can do it, Candace!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Candle, please check in here occasionally to let us know how you're doing (It's great to meet you, BTW, I've heard so many wonderful things!). This group has been very supportive and helpful.

As for me, when Hurricane Ike hit, all my good habits blew away. Life was just too crazy for a few weeks. Then I went on vacation. So in the last month, I've gained five pounds. That's really not bad. A week or two back on program should do it.
 

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Posted by Candle on :
 
Thanks for the welcome and the encouragement!
I needed both.

Have a great and healthy next few days ~
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I have a question... has anyone ever tried hypnosis for weight loss? I find the idea of a post hypnotic suggestion to "be satisfied after my first portion" to be intriguing. That's my main problem.... I almost always get seconds. Or if I'm snacking, I just never stop. I don't have the discipline to just have a handful of chips, I have to grab the bag and munch til I'm stuffed.

Sigh.

I suppose hypnosis has it's skeptics. It's probably really expensive and kooky. I suppose good ol' discipline might be a good idea.

I'm 5'10" and about 205 pounds. I never get heavier than that, but it used to be that I had never crossed the 200 mark. I've got a tummy and a double chin. When I lose weight, it shows right away.

I really need to watch my diet and fitness because I have heart and artery issues in my family.

There was a time when this thread looked like my own personal fitness blog. It was a lot of work.

Well, my wife and I are taking walks nowadays. That'll get things going.

Hi Candle!
 

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Posted by Candle on :
 
Hi, Sketch, sweetie!

I've heard of people trying hypnosis, I just haven't heard if it's been successful in the long run.

The walking is a good thing!
And munch more on sun chips than on potatoe chips.


Or draw more! Keeping your hands busy!
I love you work, ya know.

Hi, Lardy!

Good luck gang ~
you're already helping my attitudes!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
One of my most popular sketches was of Shadowplay in Candlelight Lass!

We did a mock hypnosis on me at the dinner table the other night. My kids thought it was ridiculous, which it was. I was just trying to DO something. Portion control is absolutely my issue. We've been taking walks lately. That helps. I just need to be consistent.
 

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Posted by LardLad on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Candle:
Hi, Lardy!

---

Hiya, back atcha, Shady!

It's good to see you posting more, lately! We've missed you!


 

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Posted by Candle on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Sketch Lad:
One of my most popular sketches was of Shadowplay in Candlelight Lass!


Portion control is absolutely my issue.
Mine, too!
I saw Richard Simons on a talk show many years ago and that's what he said was most Americans' problem spot.

We've been taking walks lately. That helps.
Good for you!

I just need to be consistent.
I haven't got a clue how to do that. Usually I'm just flying by the seat of my panties!

---

 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Go Candle go!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
And I'm back at 170!


This might be a good time for me to plug Weight Watchers. I've done really well with their online plan--and, except for a few brief, minor deviations--I've stuck with and maintained my weight for almost a year. Several other Legion Worlders have also had success using WW, either online or in person (at meetings). No plan works for everyone, but most folks I've known who used WW and stick with it do very well.

As for portion control, that's one of my problems, too. I really like the small (usually 100-calorie) packs of snack foods they sell these days. You can get them for just about anything. One of my current favorites is the Orville Redenbacher's microwave popcorn 100-calorie pack. With all the fiber in popcorn, on WW, it has only one Point!

The important thing is sticking with it and, when you do go off, just accept it and get back on track as soon as possible.

Keep up the good work, everyone!


 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
You can usually tell when I'm off my diet. I don't post here. Holiday time is over and I way overdid it this year. I've gained 14 pounds in the last two months. So, it's back on WW today. Fourteen pounds should come off fairly quickly, but it wasn't pleasant stepping on the scale this morning. Still, this is something I have to do for myself.
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Six pounds off the first week. Stay tuned.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Rocky,
Best wishes to you!

It's time again for my company's annual fitness challenge. If you go back several pages in this thread, you'll find many posts from me logging my work outs and food trials.

Well, I'm going for it again. I'm about 205 pounds and do NO exercise. I quite enjoy the gym, but my limited membership means I can't go between 4pm and 8pm. Ideally, I'd like to go at 5pm, after work. OMG, I might have to get up early and go before work! Nah! Not me. Sigh. I'll figure it out.

Here's a new fun thing... we have Wii Fit! I'll give reports about it as I get more into it.

As for food... well, we're motivated in my home to eat healthy even though it takes conscious effort. Junk's easier. I'll report on that too. Tonight we had polenta with black beans, broccoli and chicken. I don't do onions or peppers but the others in my family do, so my portion was prepared without them. Isn't that nice?
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I had my fitness evaluation again. No surprises. It made me look back, 5 years ago, to when I was working out a lot.

Maybe I'll compare this year's eval with previous ones. It's kinda weird. Later.

As for food, we had take-out teriyaki tonight. I always overeat when we have that.
 

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Posted by dedman on :
 
one thing i've found helps (if you have room for it) is having some kind of work out equipment in your home.
back in the days i was actually fit, it was mostly because I had the convience of workout equipment in my home.
The wife just bought an ellipical machine, I hope to use it to drop these last few pounds to get back to my slim self.
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I went to the gym! It was about 8:30pmish and I did about half and hour on the elliptical machine. Then I stretched for a few minutes. That was it.

It's been a while, so I don't want to go nuts right away and hurt myself. Sweating was good.

I'll push a bit harder next time.
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I'm back to my target (I think. It's getting hard to read the little numbers on that scale. I'm getting old! ) just about two years from when I first started WW. Thanks to everyone here for your support in this!
 

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Posted by Otto Plastino on :
 
Real women have curves ____ITT!!!
 

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Posted by rickshaw1 on :
 
Yes, yes they do.

You guys talk about being down to 170 and 200. I haven't seen those numbers in years and wouldn't look right if i did. I generally clock in around 240 to 250. But, I'm fairly tall (6'4) and while I was lean as a kid, I filled out. I had gotten chunky, which was pretty evident in the pics of Sam after he was born with me, but I found the best way to lose weight for me was to first cut back on how much I was eating (I got to liking the empty feeling again, I just move about easier) and in getting back into buying timber, I started getting more walking exercise. But the biggest thing...is keeping up with Sam. He's 3.5 now and getting tired is something that happens to lesser mortals for him.

I just wish I could work out like i used to. I was never hulk-built, I always liked lean and toned better, but with two bad shoulders, a bum leg, and a messed up wrist, it gets tough.

Still, the corticosteroid shot the doctor gave me a couple of months ago will at least let me raise my arm up over my shoulder now. couldn't do that for about a six months before that. Damned bursur.

(Giving up pepsi's would help a lot, but I'm just not a masochist)
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
I had to post this here. I've pretty much been holding steady lately at 170--really, I haven't strayed too far from it in almost a year and a half, but this afternoon I went to my local Target and decided to pick up a new pair of black jeans. I fit in a 34 (admittedly, relaxed fit) for the first time in at least six years!
 

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Posted by Suddenly Seymour on :
 
Congratulations!!!

I think buying new pants is the best part of doing Weight Watchers. I slipped into the shorts I bought last summer for the first time this year, and they're a bit tight, so it's back to the program! I've been slipping, but I think I can do it.

Way to go, Rocky!!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Every now and then I pull out the 44s I was wearing when I started WW just to remind myself.
 

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Posted by rickshaw1 on :
 
Down to 238. Workin' in the southern sun will do it for ya. Ya know its been a long day when the best thing on the table is the iced tea.
 

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Posted by LardLad on :
 
Well, I've officially begun a serious effort to start losing weight about two weeks ago. I'm almost 40, so I feel it's now or never to start making an effort to turn things around before I start getting really serious health problems. My weight's already netted me Type 2 diabetes and blood pressure, triglyceride and cholestorol issues.

Basically, I started the first week cutting out all drinks except water and cut down my portions and made smarter food choices. I've continued this beyond and added some exercise to the equation, courtesy of outdoor chores and my Wii Fit game.

I'm not sure what I weighed when I started, but I'm sure it was north of 250, perhaps as much as 260. As of last night, I weigh 238, so I must be doing something right so far!

Short term, I wanna get south of 200 and resolve the diabetes problem. Long term? Well, maybe I'll find out what my "ideal weight" is supposed to be.

Here we go, and wish me luck! (sure am hungry, though! )
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Lardy, I am so proud of you!

Remember that you have your Legion World friends behind you and we're here to support you in your efforts.

Now, once you're all svelte, what are you going to call yourself?
 

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Posted by Pov on :
 
HardLad?
 

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Posted by LardLad on :
 
Since I can't imagine any of you guys calling me anything else after all these years, maybe I'l just Kryptonianize (new word? ) my nickname to "Lar-De"?
 

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Posted by SharkLad on :
 
Congrats, Lard! Keep up the good work!
 

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Posted by Suddenly Seymour on :
 
Way to go, Lardy!

If you've cut out all liquids except water, make sure you get your calcium!
 

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Posted by LardLad on :
 
I drink mostly water, Seymour, but I occasionally drink a glass of skim milk before a meal to make me feel a little fuller. I'm addicted to diet colas but have only had two or three servings since I started dieting.
 

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Posted by Suddenly Seymour on :
 
Yogurt's good for calcium. Weight Watchers actually makes a really good one that has a much better consistency than a lot of the other "light" yogurts, which are too thin for my taste.

Speaking of WW, I've been slipping the last couple months so decided to try weekly meetings again for that regular accountability. The program at work got canceled, so I tried a men-only meeting this morning. It's a lot different than the mostly female meetings at work -- much more laid back and not as angsty. Almost too laid back, though, so we'll see.
 

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Posted by LardLad on :
 
Update: Slow and steady she goes. As of tonight, I've lost six more pounds and am down to 232. I've stuck as much as humanly possible to healthy eating options with fairly minor missteps. Wii Fit has lost its lustre somewhat, though, as its games/exercises get a little boring after awhile. I'm not exercising every day but a lot more frequently than I did before all this. And I've noticed my energy level has gone WAY up from what it was!

I'm enjoying eating foods involving fresh fruits and veggies. The most tasty for me right now are wheat wraps with turkey cold cuts, tomatoes, cucumbers, cheese and lettuce. Goood stuff!

Anyhow, I hope to see the 220's over the next week. Wish me luck!
 

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Posted by LardLad on :
 
As of right now, I'm at 228, which is four less pounds than the last update. I'm still eating well, but the will to exercise is just not there. I'll try to push myself to do it on a more regular basis, so that I can see the pounds atart to shed at a better rate.

(Damn! How long do you have to be on a diet before the hunger pangs start to lessen?!?!)
 

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Posted by He Who Wanders on :
 
Congratulations, Lardy.

As for exercise, I've found that forcing myself to do it doesn't do the trick. I'm more disciplined if I'm doing an activity I enjoy, such as swimming, and if I vary the routine from time to time, such as using treadmills instead of swimming.
 

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Posted by LardLad on :
 
Update: 219 and falling!
 

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Posted by Jerry on :
 
You go, girl !!
 

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Posted by Quislet, Esq. on :
 
LL, We'll have to start calling you Svelte Boy.


It looks like I'll have to start making use of this thread. I saw the diet doctor today. He gave me a list of what I can and can't eat. To make it more difficult, I am a fussy eater. I'm going to have trouble elimating starches.

I'm already on an exercise program. On just exercise alone (and a little bit of cutting down the fast food) I've gone from a high of 316 to 299 today.
 

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Posted by Quislet, Esq. on :
 
well, it's been two weeks and I am down to 288 from 299
 

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Posted by Lardi the Incorruptible on :
 
AWESOME, Quis!
 

---

Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
New Year's Resolution time! In 2009, I had some concerns about my cardiovascular system, but just today learned that everything there tested at normal. So, it's FITNESS TIME!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
As many of you know, I had to deal with a lot in the last several months. My mom, who is currently living with me till her new place is ready, and I decided we'd both take a few months off dieting. We had fun, but now it's time to get back--and to lose the weight we've put on. I've, unfortunately, picked up 30 pounds in the last four months or so.

I'm back on Weight Watchers and will lose it. In addition to Mother and the support here, several coworkers and I have pledged to lose weight together.

I'll keep everyone posted. I feel bad about it, but I'm taking the steps to fix it.
 

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Posted by Lardi on :
 
Yikes! 30 pounds? Sorry to hear about that, Rocky. But I know you'll take it back off. Just goes to show what we face trying to keep the pounds off.

On the other hand, I was pleased to step on the scale today and find that I haven't gained weight as I had feared over the holidays. Despite constant lapses in judgement and succumbing to temptation on multiple occasions, the Wii Fit scale shows me at 213 pounds. Granted, I've registered a low weight of 212 earlier in the year, but I'll take 213 in a heartbeat. Now, it's time for me to refocus on the good eating habits and find a way to work exercise back into the equation, so I can realize my dream and get below 200, hopefully by the summer! If I achieve that goal, I'll start looking to go down further and find out what my elusive idea weight might be. But getting to minus-200 will be my focus for the nonce.

Unfortunately, I celebrated by having Taco Bell tonight. D'oh! That and I just have to find a way to overcome my personal Kryptonite at work: Cookies!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
I have a terrible relationship with food. I'm really bad at stopping before I get too full. I tend to grab those last 3 or 4 bits of meat out of the stir-fry pan even though I'm totally stuffed. I will eat a third plate of spaghetti even though I'm totally stuffed.

Cookies? I can't just have one or two, I need 6 or 7.

I thought fast food was the worst of my food issues, but it's actually portion control. We do eat pretty healthy at home, but I kind of blow that when I end up so stuffed I have to lay down to recover from dinner.

I'm totally a stress eater. I've been really stressed out lately, though I'm pleased to say that's all easing up.

So, the good news is, my family has joined the gym. It's a REALLY nice gym, it's the one I used to have a free membership to at my long-time former job.

Now my goal is to get in there and do the work, which I quite enjoy, but also, to bring some discipline and order to my relationship with food.

Gah! I hope that didn't become TMI!
 

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Posted by Quislet, Esq. on :
 
I am sure you can do it Sketchy!

Good luck with your goal, Lardi. My doctor said my ideal weight is under 200. So that is my goal.

Rocky, I know you can do it. You did it before, you can do it again.

Just to let people here know, my last weigh in (Jan 8) had me at 244. My starting weight in October was 299.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Quis, that is FANTASTIC!
 

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Posted by He Who Wanders on :
 
Congratulations, Quis!
 

---

Posted by Quislet, Esq. on :
 
Latest weigh-in has me at 236.4 lbs
 

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Posted by SharkLad on :
 
That's awesome, Quis!
 

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Posted by Sketch Lad on :
 
Did a bunch of cardio and stretching yesterday. Today, I ate too much Thai food.
I wonder what tomorrow will bring?
 

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Posted by SharkLad on :
 
So, according to the scale, I've put on 18 pounds (I refuse to round it up to 20) since May. Stressful job and low willpower can do that I suppose.

I'm going to Florida in exactly four weeks where perhaps I will expose my chubby, pale flesh to the world, so I am forcing myself to get my act together.

Day 1 - returned to the gym after a lengthy hiatus
 

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Posted by Dev Em on :
 
Starting to cut calorie intake in a big way. Started with being sick this last weekend...now making a conscious effort.
 

---

Posted by SharkLad on :
 
good luck, dev!
 

---

Posted by Set on :
 
Seaweed cuts fat intake 75%?
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Okay, its been a long, long time since I check in here. My weight fluctuates like many of you and over the years I've posted about losing weight and gaining weight in this thread. A few years ago, I went from 245 (my then all-time highest) to 207, which was the lowest I've been in 12 years (since high school).

Since then, I had put on a good amount of weight; I remember talking to Rocky about it in San Diego. Well, with my wife pregnant for seven months and a whole host of other reasons, I've put on even more weight than that, and had reached my all-time highest in my whole life: 254. And I've started to freak out about it. Another thing that went wrong was my mother had a minor stroke--attributed to major cigarette smoking from ages 9 to 57, and that kind of put me in a mild depression for a few weeks (mainly in February). I haven't really talked about my Mom because I just don't want to, but she's doing okay and is back at home.

I really hate the way I look right now.

So as of two weeks ago, I'm back. I've started eating healthy again and working out. And I'm going to really need some support this time. In prior years, I would go super-hardcore and have my brother do it with me. I don't live with him anymore so leaning on his strictness isn't there and there is a lot more temptation. I don't want to go "super-hardcore" again, but I do want to change my general eating habits permanently. That means making some healthy choices but not forcing myself to eat things I'm going to hate.

First order of business was eliminating all drinks but water and coffee (I drink it black). I'll allow myself some beers and hard liquor when I go out, which is pretty rare these days (as my wife is pregnant).

I'm going a cardio-heavy workout routine at least three times a week now. But the temptation is there to skip days, as I go after work. Hopefully that will change on March 26th when the gym near my work reopens so I can go at lunch (and maybe go four times a week).

I've already lost three pounds so I'm down to 251. I'm setting goals for myself for every Friday. My goal this Friday is to be 249 (maybe even 248) as the weight you lose in the first few weeks is always the easiest. I then hope to lose 2 pounds a week.

My wife and I have 6 weddings this summer and are in 3 of them. Which means wedding photos. I'm the best man for my brother's wedding. So I'm setting milestones for each wedding (on in May, my brother's in July and the last in August).

My ultimate goal is to get to 210 at some point. And from there, I would love to reach my prior milestone (207) and then perhaps one day go below 200. But that's all longterm. For me the major focus is losing 15 pounds at a time. So first order of business is get to 240 and then by wedding #1 get to 236.

Here I go...this is not going to be easy...

But I feel now that I posted this I have to be held accountable for it. I never talk about my weight EVER to anyone because it stresses me out. But I need to get some *energy* back.

Wish me luck I'm going to keep checking in and I hope to make it a habit to at least check in every Thursday/Friday to see how I did in comparison to my milestone for that week. This week's: 249 (from 251).
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Foods I'm trying to eat to help:

- For breakfast, Cornflakes. I like it and it helps regulate my digestion. It's also my carbs for the day.

- For lunch, cottage cheese, apples, some unsalted almonds, yogurt. I'm trying not to eat lunch per se, but 2-3 times during the day in little increments.

- For dinner, its a little harder. Tuna fish, salmon, chicken. Yogurt. Hard-boiled eggs. My wife is going to keep me supplied with arugula so I can have salad (or put the chicken on top of my salad as I'm not the biggest fan of boiled chicken).

Any dinner tips you guys have for healthy foods to eat?
 

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Posted by Quislet, Esq. on :
 
Cobie,

Among the stuff my dioet doctor gave me regarding food was avoid starchy food (Breads, cereal, rice, pasta, potatoes, etc.) Make sure the meat is lean, mostly chicken, turkey, and fish. Beef should be 95% lean or higher.

What I have in the morning is a whey shake and a piece of fruit. (8 oz of fat free milk mixed with chocolate flavored Designer Whey) It takes a little getting use to the taste of the whey, but it keeps me feeling full until lunchtime (around 1).
 

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Posted by Officer Taylor on :
 
Des,

For the sake of context, how tall a dude are ya? I'm barely 5'7", and my weight peaked around what yours did. I'm guessing you're considerably taller than me.
 

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Posted by Dev Em on :
 
For the record to check back on. I'm at 295 lbs at 6'4"
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Quis, thanks for the tips! I'll take any food tips people can give.

Lardy, I'm 6'1". I can still hide my out of shapeness with the right clothing but at 250 even that isn't working. At 220 I look thin in clothing (my goal would then be to further tone my body not lose more weight). That should give some context. An online thing said my ideal weight might be 210 but that doesn't come from a doctor so who knows. Another said 185 but that seems very unrealistic (I'd be thrilled with 210).
 

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Posted by SharkLad on :
 
Hey Cobie ... good luck with the weight loss ... I've followed a program on and off for the past several years called "Body for Life" by Bill Phillips ... the book has great suggestions for which foods to eat and which to avoid ... it also outlines a pretty simple to follow exercise program ... I first used it about 8 years ago and managed to drop (and keep off for several years) about 30 pounds ... I went back to using it last winter and lost 13 pounds, and I'm in the process of following it again and have lost 11 pounds in the last three weeks ... if you're interested and want to borrow the book, I'd be happy to send it to you ... in terms of dinner tips, I've actually gotten a lot of use out of a cookbook called "Cooking Light - 5 ingredients, 15 minutes" ... simple, fast, and healthy ... again, good luck, and I'm glad your mom is okay ...
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
I may check those out if I get the chance Sharky. Again, thanks for all the feedback guys! I think a lot of us can agree that engaging in a continous discussion about eating healthy and working out is a source of encouragement to do those things.

This has been a very good week for me. My target goal for Friday is 249; I did weight myself yesterday and I'm already at 248. I'm not patting myself too much on the back because the first 10 pounds are always the easiest to lose and put back on for me--a more important milestone will be at the first bachelor party of the summer, in which I'm hoping to weigh 244 or better.

I can already see some changes in my face / back / chest / arms.

Quis, I had some chicken last night. I usually can't make chicken seem appetizing at all, but I was able to come up with a quick fix. I did a little rub of chilli powder and grilled it and put it into a bed of arugula and pears (very light oil & vinegar, as I'm trying to limit any oil). It was actually quite delicious!
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Update (because if I don't, I won't hold myself accountable):

At the close of yesterday I'm at 244. The easy pounds are still coming off but that won't last much longer.

I continue to notice changes in my face, back, shoulders and chest. Hopefully my stomack will follow suit soon.

I *could* go down another belt buckle if I wanted to, but its a bit tight, so I'll wait. My longterm goal is to be down two belt buckles--that's more than enough to get me where I want to be.

Today I change gyms for the first time in 3 years, so I can go at lunch. It also has a sauna which is a great way to shed some of the toxins from my body after a hard cardio workout. I'm looking forward to it.

Still eating healthy, by dry-rubbing and grilling chicken and then putting it in salads with different things to make them appetizing (pears, chese, olives). I'm trying not get crazy with what I eat because I don't want it to be a 'diet', but a change in lifestyle. This weekend I'll enjoy some less healthy stuff like a cheeseburge (which I've been craving), and a few beers tonight.

[ April 09, 2010, 08:42 AM: Message edited by: Cobalt Kid ]
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
This week, my gym changed scales so I'm no longer weighing myself with shoes on (which is like 2 pounds I guess). So I'm actually at a real weight of 239, which is really a huge encouragement to me. I've broken into the 230's and I'm still losing a lot in a short time.

My workouts are going really well, and I'm just feeling a whole lot better.

I had some nice compliments from my wife's family when the saw me this week.

Another big milestone: I am down one belt size. That is big for me. Down one more belt size and that is the thinnest I've ever been (I was close to one more after that but never quite reached it).

I'm feeling very good and will keep up the heavy cardio routine. I was talking to one of the younger guys at my gym who is also a personal trainer and he told me when I plateau, that I should focus on my core. I'm going to take his advice, as I think that's a major point of contention. But I'm not there yet, I need to lose another 10-15 pounds.
 

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Posted by SharkLad on :
 
That's great, Cobie!
 

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Posted by Quislet, Esq. on :
 
Good going Cobie.

I just got back from the diet doctor. Last month I was 231. I was really surprized when the scale read 213. Back in October when I started this I was 299, so that's a loss of 86 pounds. The Doctor said that my ideal weight is under 200.
 

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Posted by Suddenly Seymour on :
 
Wow, you guys are doing great!

I've had a hard time staying on the program since San Diego and have gained about 2/3 of the weight back. I have a goal again, though, so I'm hoping to turn around.
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Quis, that is spectacular! In fact, you're kind of inspiring me right now to keep it going strong!

And Seymour, you can turn it back around and be in the Star Boy costume in no time!
 

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Posted by SharkLad on :
 
Shrinking Quislet! Thats awesome! You must feel great!

I've lost about 16 pounds. I've been spending more time in the gym than I ever cared to, but it's been alright ... I go in at 6am sometimes for a quick cardio workout and save the longer weight training sessions for days I'm able to get out of work relatively early ... and one day a week I eat just about anything I want ... if not for that to look forward to, I'd never be able to stay disciplined the rest of the week ...
 

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Posted by rickshaw1 on :
 
You guys are the tops. I was clocking in regularly at around 250 to 260 and didn't know it. Well, I laid off the sodas and it being spring, started working my the garden/nursery. You really wanna lose weight, use a 14" walk behind tiller and do a garden about an acre in size. Then when you have it laid out, use a garden rake to clean it out for planting. Guarantee that'll pull the weight off. According to my wife's scales, I'm at 225lbs. And thats the thinest I've been since probably around 1988.
 

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Posted by rickshaw1 on :
 
Wouldn't you know it, my wife just told me not too lose too much weight, she likes me with a little meat on my bones. Naturally, I did the booty shake for her.

I've seen a few of the pictures from Quis. Amigo, lookin' tough.
 

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Posted by Lad Boy on :
 
Tipping the scales at 205 in January was an eye-opener. I had stopped bicycle commuting and was drinking a sugary latte and sweetened iced tea every day. So for the first time in the 17 years that I've worked in the same office building, I decided to use the gym for something besides a shower and locker for bike commuting. Spin classes, a workout routine, no sweetened tea or coffee, and no 7-11 snacks -- it's more of a lifestyle change than a diet. I've lost 25 of my targeted 40 pounds. Although 180 is far from svelte, if you squint in dim light, you can see a hint of my abdominal muscles.

By the end of summer I want to be buying 32" waist pants, have an at-rest heart rate in the low 60's, and run an urban, lunchtime 5K in under 25 minutes.

[ May 08, 2010, 05:42 PM: Message edited by: Lad Boy ]
 

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Posted by SharkLad on :
 
12 weeks later, I've lost 25 pounds ... working more on building muscle than losing fat ... looking at this like the beginning of another 12 week cycle, which will bring me right about to when I leave for Australia ... be good to be in the best shape in case I need to out-swim any real sharks ...
 

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Posted by Quislet, Esq. on :
 
Congrats Sharky!

My trainer is having me do more weight training than aerobics now, to lower my body fat percentage and build muscle.
 

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Posted by Dev Em on :
 
About 2 1/2 weeks since starting back to work, and I'm down 10 lbs. At least something good is coming of this.
 

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Posted by Quislet, Esq. on :
 
Very good.
 

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Posted by SharkLad on :
 
Hitting the wall the past week or so ... struggling to make time to go to the gym, and when I'm there, I'm watching the clock the whole time ... three weeks 'til summer vacation ... after that, making time can't be an excuse ...
 

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Posted by Mattropolis on :
 


This was me a long time ago. It's all I need to keep the weight down.
 

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Posted by Mattropolis on :
 


And this is me now. I will never be thin, but I will also never go back to the before image either...
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
It's quite a difference!

Me, I am HUMONGOUS right now. Bleeeah!
 

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Posted by Cobalt Kid on :
 
Since the baby has been born I haven't been doing well at all.

I'm trying, but only going to the gym like 1 or 2 days a week. I'm eating all kinds of crap.

I'm trying to get it together but its hard. Working out and eating healthy is hard to do with limited sleep.
 

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Posted by Quislet, Esq. on :
 
So, I have been saying that my starting weight was 299 lb., which is what it was when I started seeing the diet doctor. But when I recently saw my primary care doctor, he has my heaviest at 316 lbs. And my recent weigh-in has me at 205.6 lbs. So, I have lost 110.4 lbs. The diet doctor wants me to lose another 15 lbs.

Then I was on my way home, walking from the subway when a woman coming the other way stopped me and said "Can I ask you a question?" I said "sure" She said that she lives just down the street and has noticed me walking by and that I have lost a lot of weight. She wanted to know how I did it. So I told her "Diet & exercise." giving some specifics of my diet.

This isn't the first time someone I don't know has commented on my weight loss.
 

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Posted by SharkLad on :
 
That must be an awesome feeling, Quis ...
 

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Posted by Dev Em on :
 
My heaviest was 296 lbs at the Dr. and by my scale.

I am now at 281 lbs. I want to cut at least 40 or so more pounds off. This has been in the last month or so that I have been proactive in trying.

Quis has met me and can attest that I am a big guy...regardless of weight, so around 230 - 240 range will be comfortable to me.

[ June 19, 2010, 09:16 AM: Message edited by: Dev Em ]
 

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Posted by Dev Em on :
 
btw, this has been 90% diet, which is not the easiest thing to do when diabetic. Gotta start the excercise portion, then I'll get the up and down cycle going for a while.
 

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Posted by Quislet, Esq. on :
 
You are a tall glass of water. Good Luck with the weight loss. It sounds like you are off to a great start.
 

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Posted by Dev Em on :
 
Hit the 20 lb mark yesterday morning, but probably lost some ground with phenominal italian food yesterday.
 

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Posted by SharkLad on :
 
I hit a wall ... am hating the gym big time ... my one day a week of eating whatever I want has turned into a weekend of eating whatever I want ...

gonna force myself to go to the gym now ...
 

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Posted by Sarcasm Kid on :
 
For those of you lady dieters, and this is not meant to be a crack, I assure you, here is a lady who is both big and beautiful. Meet Nareesha:

http://sadwonderland.deviantart.com/art/Nareesha-25746201
 

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Posted by Dev Em on :
 
23 pounds so far...fitting into the next size down pants, which just drastically increased my wardrobe.
 

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Posted by SharkLad on :
 
Good going, Dev!
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
It's been a very rough year for me for many reasons and I've done a great deal of stress-eating. I finally had enough and am back on Weight Watchers. I have to lose 40 pounds again, but at least I caught myself before it was all back. I know the right way to eat and exercise, even if I've ignored it for a while. I've done it before and I can do it again.
 

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Posted by Anti-Matter Eater Lad on :
 
I changed the way I ate simply because my body just didn't seem to be working right. I always felt sick. I accepted this as the norm for 10 years before I decided I had had enough. So, I didn't go to a doctor or dietitian. I researched food. I figured if my health was worth changing my whole life over then I wanted to know as much as I could about the subject.

[ July 28, 2010, 07:57 AM: Message edited by: Anti-Matter Eater Lad ]
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
In the first week, I've lost five pounds!

I've taken Hyvvie running (sort of, anyway) twice this week. I intend for that to become a regular routine.

Now, I have to figure out how to get back to the gym. I had a disastrous session with a trainer several months ago. It's hard enough to get past my middle-school PE angst without that! It's a nice little neighborhood gym, but I have to find a way to make it work for me.

It feels good to be posting to this thread again!
 

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Posted by SharkLad on :
 
Good going, Rocky!
 

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Posted by Dev Em on :
 
I think I fell off the wagon. Scale broke, and I lost my momentum. Gotta find it again.
 

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Posted by Quislet, Esq. on :
 
Good going Rockhopper Lad. I've ben lucky with my trainers. The first one was ok. The second one was great. He encouraged but didn't act all drill sargent and was very sociable. Then he left to go back to school. My new trainer is also great.

Dev Em, you can do it.
 

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Posted by SharkLad on :
 
After a two month "break," I am headed to the gym ...
 

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Posted by BouncingBear on :
 
Hi Guys,

I am desperate to loose weight and am having such a difficult time doing it. My physical well-being is in danger and I think so is my mental because of this issue. I hope to be reading this thread a lot to help me find an answer. Thanks for listening.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I've REALLY packed it on the past few months I cannot believe how big I am...
 

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Posted by Quislet, Esq. on :
 
Bouncing Bear,

I lost 100 pounds from October to May. I have plateaued for now. But it can be done.

I did go to a doctor for help. He provided me with the framework for my daily eating habits. Basically, limit fats (use non-fat milk & cheese, stick to low fat meats. I could have hamburger if it was no less than 95% lean. The rule of thumb was no more than a third of calories could be fat calories), no carbs, more fruits & vegetables. And I was limited to 6 calories per pound of body weight a day. so if you weigh 300, that's 1800 calories per day. The doctor also had me have a homemade whey shake for breakfast (although I also had a piece of fruit with it)
 

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Posted by BouncingBear on :
 
How did you get the will power to actually follow the diet? I've got the list my doctor wants me to follows..but dog gone it, I just can't seem to make myself follow it. I admit that I eat when I'm unhappy or depressed or scared and I've been all of those for the past six months. My partner tries to help but he can't force me. I must be mentally ill or something. Am I the only one with this problem?
 

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Posted by Quislet, Esq. on :
 
BouncingBear,

I am not sure where I got the will power. At the time, I just followed the diet and didn't think about it. (Although I am slipping a little now) One other thing the doctor had me do is to keep a daily log (listing the day name too i.e. Monday, Tuesday, etc.) of what I ate. I found that this really helped. Although he just wanted the list of what I ate, I added in the calorie content (estimating on some. This site Calorie King is helpful for that) It also helps to not have the "bad" foods in the house. "I'm hungry. What is there to eat? Potato chips, cookies, a pear. hmmmm." compared to "I'm hungry. What is there to eat? Apples, pears, bananas, strawberries. hmmm...."

I think a lot of people have trouble sticking to their diet. Actually the doctor had me include low fat desserts, like Sugar free Jell-o pudding cups (60 calories) or light yogurt (Dannon light & fit 80 calories) and every once in a great while I'd have a piece of chocolate cake. It is important that you treat yourself now and then. Also, the whey shake I made consisted of chocolate flavored whey and a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa in 8 oz of fat-free milk. (I have to say that it took a while to get used to the flavor of the whey) I know I also said no carbs, but I am such a fussy eater that the doctor allowed me to have a sandwich for lunch. But just one sandwich, two slices of bread and to get the lowest calorie bread there is (I get a light oatmeal bread that has 35 calories a slice)

Don't dwell on your lapses. Focus on just doing what is right. And I am not being a Pollyanna. I also suffer from depression.


 

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Posted by SharkLad on :
 
This thread has been quiet for a while, but with the new year, I figured there's got to be a few folks looking for some support... myself included... I've put on 6 pounds since the end of November, bringing me up to a total of 15 since the beginning of the school year... at this rate, I'll put everything I lost back by spring... these cold, dark days tend to be brutal in terms of getting my arse to the gym especially after a long day with unruly students... heading to the gym now... good luck to everyone who has made a resolution to get in shape!
 

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Posted by Ambush Bug on :
 
I am starting to try again in earnest...I have fallen off the wagon (so to speak) and gotten up to 300 lbs. Time for some changes.
 

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Posted by rickshaw1 on :
 
I'm not dieting so much as trying to control my diabeties. I've been trying to get more exercise and cut out on the sugars. That's one thing I'll say for real. Make sure its safe for you to do and you don't have any problems with blood sugar, but...

cut out the sugars, the obvious ones anyway. Just do it. Lay off the sodas to start. Even if you just drink the "diet" sodas, they will still cause you to bloat badly. And let me tell you, I love me some real pepsi. That throwback pepsi came out right before I found out about my diabetes and I guzzled that stuff by the twenty ounce bottle.

If you love popcorn and bread like myself, yer screwed. I love my bread and I love my popcorn, and thats the very first thing they tell you to cut out or drastically back on. I limit myself to one thing of popcorn a month. And it breaks my heart. Also, I used to live on sandwiches. Bologna and cheese more than anything. But the breads no good.

And then its the hidden sugars for me. Stuff thats hi in starches or carbs get me. I check things like nabs and see that there isn't much sugar up front, like 3 grams or so, but then you check the fat and BINGO! there's yer damn problem.

And lay off the caffeine if you can. I was staying up all night and had a powerful thirst, two sure signs of the big D. Part of it was the caffeine. Water is much better for you. And not that flavored junk either that has carbonation in it, but the real deal.

I've started taking daily vitamin B12 and its helped with my energy level. Funny thing about the Big D, the more sugar in my blood, the worse I felt, but, I can't seem to function below 125. My optimal range seems to be between 125 and 150, which is still a little high. But, its better than the 420 I had the day before I went to the doc.

Its a pain, and I loathe the chemical taste of artificial sweetners, but if the diabetic diet is okayed by a doctor, man, the pounds will shed themselves.
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
You know when I avoid this thread that I have fallen off the wagon, so to speak.

I am back on Weight Watchers and at least I can say that I haven't gained back everything that I'd lost; however, I need to lose 47 pounds.

I did more than that before, so I know I can do it now.
 

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Posted by rickshaw1 on :
 
Good luck, Rock. Shout out if you need motivation. Happy to help.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
I can't take it anymore... I am actually physically uncomfortable in my body now, I've gained so much weight.

So I'm back.

Starting off with some excercising. When I was in good shape I easily knocked out 150 situps on a crunch-board.

Today I barely scraped out 40 sit-ups and that was in 2 seperate intervals of 20.

Figured I'd start with a bit of excercising and then work on the diet slowly.

Gotta do something.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Sit-Up Log:

Day 1 2 and 3: 40

Day 4: 45

Also today I bought a WII Fit. After it measured me, it declared me officially a Fatass. I did some Yoga breathing excercises tonight but will really hit it up right tomorrow!
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Day 5 (yesterday): 50 situps

WII says I have lost 3 pounds. I suspect that has more to do with my weighing first thing this morning. When I first weighed in on WII it was last thing at night.
 

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Posted by Rockhopper Lad on :
 
Lash, I am very impressed! Keep up the good work!

I just weighed in and have lost eight pounds in the first week! Thirty-nine pounds to go. I've had a bad cold the last couple days and don't have much appetite, anyway, but it still makes me feel a little better.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Congrats to you Rocky!!

Day 6: 50 situps

WII Fit just said I have lost 5 pounds since I started it 4 days ago.
 

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Posted by MLLASH on :
 
Doing my first real WII workout today... who knew basic step and hula hoops could hurt like this? I am j'adoring it!!!
 

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Posted by Quislet, Esq on :
 
Good work for both of you.
 

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Posted by Ambush Bug on :