Fitchella 2012 It's GO TIME!

[chiapet]

I was using Livestrong to track calories - when I was tracking calories (which was extremely effective, however I've become super lazy and unmotivated). They do have iPhone and Droid apps, but I never used the iphone one very much and have heard it doesn't always sync properly with the web site tracking.

[chairmenmeow47]

yeah i don't know how long it will last, but i'm thinking that maybe the act of tracking this will help me be more aware of how much i'm eating. i'm too poor to watch my carbs & sugar right now, so i need to keep track of my frozen lunches and shit like that. i still don't understand how to figure out the amount of calories i should be eating per day.

thanks for the suggestions, keep 'em coming!

[ThatGirl]

SparkPeople is on the computer and has a great iPhone app for tracking while you are out and about. You also count your fitness minutes and it gives you your daily ratios of calories in vs calories burned, the whole thing. It keeps track of your carb protein and fat ratio and you have to track the grams of each for it to work, but its very effective. For fat loss, you want to consume between 1250 and 1550 calories daily, while also exercising regularly. And it will tell you how much of that should come from carbs, protein and fat.

[amyzzz]

i think i'll be ready for hiking at the end of the month, faxy.

Can I get in on this? I keep wanting to go hiking but can't get motivated enough to do it, and Jacob never wants to go. Superstition Mountain is near me, and I still haven't hiked it. :)

[Mr. Dylanja]

They played "Do It Again" by The Chemical Brothers last night at LA Fitness. I got so excited. It was immediately followed by some 80's ballad, which sucked the wind right out of my sails :nono

[chairmenmeow47]

amy, i think faxy is talking right after work near south mountain monday, tuesday, or wednesday some week. which you are welcome to join, but maybe we could plan a longer hike somewhere towards the end of the month/early november too :)

dylan, that's funny. i just started creating new walking playlists based on songs that start with a certain letter. so far i've only done A and B and they are way longer than one workout, but i'll keep making them as i get bored with this. B is my favourite:

big booty ho - 2 live crew
the big come down - nin
big decision - elliott smith
big exit - pj harvey
big guns down - easy big fella
bike thief - freezepop
baby i got your money - ol' dirty bastard
back in the day - erykah badu
backup plan - big boi
bad john - mephiskapheles
the ballad of john & yoko - the beatles
ballade de melody nelson - portishead with lane birkin
BBB - how to destroy angels

[Mr. Dylanja]

What a bodaciously badass bunch of bangers you got there.

[faxman75]

amy, i think faxy is talking right after work near south mountain monday, tuesday, or wednesday some week. which you are welcome to join, but maybe we could plan a longer hike somewhere towards the end of the month/early november too :)


Yes and yes. Actually, I noticed yesterday it's getting darker much earlier. It's dusk by 6:15PM or so at this point. I'm definitely in for a longer weekend hike too and i've never hiked Superstition either, of course you can get in on this Amy.

[amyzzz]

Cool, send me a PM or facebook message if you decide on a certain date. Thanks!

[Kyliediscope]

I'm about 8 pounds out of my goal weight and that'll mean over 50 pounds lost.

[faxman75]

The girls in this thread are kicking all kinds of ass! Congrats on approaching goals Kylie and Dani!! Awesome.

[chiapet]

Ahem... some of the girls are. I keep giving myself breaks, in the form of "I'll get back on track after...." Need to stop making excuses and just get to it. :/

[faxman75]

I was also presuming you had at least maintained your earlier success :), that's where i'm at. I haven't gained or fallen back into the all the old habits but i'm not really losing and haven't in the last couple of months. I just keep trying to stick to a certain lifestyle more days than not and i'm mostly just evening out but I don't feel discouraged any longer or like I should give up or something. Mostly because I don't feel like what i'm doing is work as much as trying to live a certain way. This alone I look at as an accomplishment. I also still know I need to kick things in to high gear again before too long. The reason i'm not losing is i'm exercising a bit less, drinking a ton more booze and distracted with traveling and school. What i'm not doing is eating a ton more or going crazy with anytihng really. I'm learning moderation and doing alright with it and I still find ways to move even when i'm traveling. Even if it's not some hardcore intense workout. I just try to stay active. Even at ATP walking up and down the boardwalk and dancing for a couple of hours each day was something. I'm thankful I still have the energy in me but more importantly the desire to keep moving.

[chiapet]

That's true - I haven't lost any weight in uhm 6 months now but I haven't gained any either. I just need to start working out regularly again, and get back into the eating habits I was developing last winter. Too much pasta and rice. :)

[faxman75]

YES! Remember when you were posting pictures of those yummy dishes you were preparing? More of THAT! And you dance dance DANCE! So shaking that booty is good cardio. Just keep the terrible habits at bay and move forward in tiny increments.

[psychic friend]

is just a website or do they have an app too? ideally i'm looking for something i could update on my computer or phone.

i use myfitnesspal and you can update it either on your computer or an app on your phone. (i mostly use the app). You can enter/search for your food and 98% of the time it already exists so you can click to add to your daily diary and it keeps tracks of calories, etc. There is also a barcode scanner to scan your food if its packaged and it finds it that way. You can also put in cardio. and it puts in how many calories you burned (varies by how much you weigh, how long you did "eliptical" or "walking uphill 3.5 miles per hour), etc). And you can also log weight training but it does not give calories burned from that. I use it I would say about 90% religiously. I have been logging since june.

It is very eye opening how fast calories add up when you actually log in everything you put in your mouth.

I have no new progress to report. (still recovering..um.. re-losing from a big splurge this past weekend) but I think ill be able to report more loss later this week.

[psychic friend]

I'm about 8 pounds out of my goal weight and that'll mean over 50 pounds lost.

congrats! dont turn into a rail. that is a lot lost. wow. you go!

[chairmenmeow47]

i use myfitnesspal and you can update it either on your computer or an app on your phone. (i mostly use the app). You can enter/search for your food and 98% of the time it already exists so you can click to add to your daily diary and it keeps tracks of calories, etc. There is also a barcode scanner to scan your food if its packaged and it finds it that way. You can also put in cardio. and it puts in how many calories you burned (varies by how much you weigh, how long you did "eliptical" or "walking uphill 3.5 miles per hour), etc). And you can also log weight training but it does not give calories burned from that. I use it I would say about 90% religiously. I have been logging since june.

It is very eye opening how fast calories add up when you actually log in everything you put in your mouth.

I have no new progress to report. (still recovering..um.. re-losing from a big splurge this past weekend) but I think ill be able to report more loss later this week.

thanks for the details. a girl at work recommended this to, but did not provide nearly as much information. i'll be checking this one out!

*edit* i just started using it. holy crap this is awesome. even the scone mix i buy and make at home was in there.

[frizzlefry]

Just signed up for my first marathon in a couple years, does anybody know any good Droid Apps for tracking mileage? I apologize if the answer is right above me, I scroleld through a little bit but I couldn't find anything. Also suggestions for good artists, albums, or songs to run would be the tits.

[faxman75]

I apologize if the answer is right above me,

Quite literally. The apology will be taken into consideration.

[frizzlefry]

Noticed that right when I posted it, do all of these apps use GPS to track distance or are they like older Pedometers that work off of a pace you originally plug in? I ask because I like running on the beach so my signal goes out for considerable amounts of distance.

[insbordnat]

I don't know how accurate the phone apps would be if they used GPS. I get funky gps readings from my iPhone all the time and it just seems like that'd produce wonky results. I personally have a Garmin Forerunner 305 which travels predominantly on my bike, but I use for everything (except swimming). It's amazing, and for the new low price of $150, it's quite a steal (considering it used to be $400).

[mmsk123]

frizzle: Use MyTracks. It's Google's own tracking app. It'll give you distance and speed and elevation and all that stuff. You can then upload/save the route right to your Google Maps.

Here's one I did awhile back: http://goo.gl/Ldkm5 (click on the red arrow to see stats).

You don't have to worry about it losing your signal. GPS does not need a cell/data connection to work, just a decently clear sky.

[psychic friend]

im gonna try that mytracks thing.. thanks for the tip

[TomAz]

frizzle: Use MyTracks. It's Google's own tracking app. It'll give you distance and speed and elevation and all that stuff. You can then upload/save the route right to your Google Maps.

This is the single most useful piece of information I have received since lunchtime. Thanks.

[TheScenestar]

Good news and bad news! Bad news? I gained 5lbs. This is due to a birthday party (mine, Mexican food nom nom nom), DJing a wedding the next day (Thai food for lunch, Wedding food & cupcakes, nom nom nom), a BBQ at my brother's house when watching NFL games (organic free range grilled chicken, nom nom nom) and then something another birthday dinner on Monday (Pasta, nom nom nom). Good news? I just recently lost all that weight plus one extra pound so I'm right on track! Excited to be back in the red. Weeeeeeeeeeeee.

[insbordnat]

frizzle: Use MyTracks. It's Google's own tracking app. It'll give you distance and speed and elevation and all that stuff. You can then upload/save the route right to your Google Maps.

Here's one I did awhile back: http://goo.gl/Ldkm5 (click on the red arrow to see stats).

You don't have to worry about it losing your signal. GPS does not need a cell/data connection to work, just a decently clear sky.

I'd only point out that apparently for the Android it's a great app but for the iPhone it's notoriously inaccurate. Just an FYI.

[Mr. Porter]

How the fuck I get from 155 to 140 in 2.5 months wtf?!

[Courtney]

Heads up to all you pounding the pavement: Hautelook.com (http://www.hautelook.com/short/f7rk) and 6pm.com (http://www.6pm.com/new-balance/UgFr4gIBCg.zso?s=isNew/desc/goLiveDate/desc/recentSalesStyle/desc/) both have really good deals on New Balance sneakers right now -- anywhere from 30% to 80% off. I wouldn't recommend buying shoes without trying them out first, but if you already know that New Balance is a brand that fits you, then this is a GREAT deal. Especially for distance runners who are constantly going through sneaks and need to buy new ones every three or four months. 6pm.com also has all New Balance workout clothing and gear on sale.

[insbordnat]

How the fuck I get from 155 to 140 in 2.5 months wtf?!

2ChjLMbXVrU

[chairmenmeow47]

holy shit i had no idea how many calories were in hot wings.

i'm not really losing a lot of weight, but i am feeling healthier and all around "tighter". i've been back to walking daily for about a month now and have started to increase my walking time. slow, but positive, healthy progress :)

[Courtney]

I went for a 3-mile hike yesterday, and swam 100 laps today. Woohooooo :)

[chiapet]

I'm sort of back on the wagon. Or, at least, there isn't really unhealthy food in my apartment anymore. So I'm eating properly because I'm too lazy to go get something else. :)

Tomorrow I start back to the gym after work!

[RageAgainstTheAoki]

I have four words to describe why I'm taking the next couple of days off. Upper inner thigh pimple.

[Mr. Porter]

2ChjLMbXVrU
LOL never snorted in my life.

Hoping to get that six pack by Christmas!

[chairmenmeow47]

i can't believe how helpful the myfitnesspal app is. it's not just realizing how many calories are in things, but really taking the time to think about what i'm eating. i've been able to up my level on the treadmill too.

[ThatGirl]

I am faltering. I had leftover Ginger Beef for brunch this morning. Haven't gained because I've been dancing constantly but still affecting my well being and how I feel. All the other gals here are doing awesome, so I need to follow more of their example!

[psychic friend]

i packed up and/or threw out a bunch of clothes that are too big this weekend. And I fit into a couple pairs of jeans that previously were too small. I am still kind of in awe that they now fit.

[Courtney]

PF you are a super star! You've inspired me to start logging my workouts on Facebook (only visible to a custom group of fellow worker-outers, of course).

[mmsk123]

Crossfit workout kicked my ass tonight. It started with 100 pushups and went downhill from there. I've lost about 8 pounds in three weeks though, so I guess it is worth it.

[Courtney]

Go mmsk! That's terrific! I did Crossfit here in Honolulu for a while a couple years ago, but I found it cost-prohibitive ($15 per class for basically an empty warehouse with some weights and a trainer -- no locker room or showers or anything -- what?!) and my bff/crossfit buddy moved to Oregon so I lost my motivation to go. But kudos to anyone who can keep it up; that shit is hard.

On my end, I'm on day #3 of my new workout streak, and I'm feeling a little bit sore. Today I biked to work, worked until noon, biked to the gym, did a 45 minute workout, took a shower, biked back to work, and now I'm at my desk until 5pm at which time I will bike home. Whew!

[keeshonjohnson]

Wow Courtney, that is a lot of exercise - way to go!

[faxman75]

I feel pretty awful lately. I need to turn things around and I need to start now or the vicious cycle of being tired and eating poorly leading to no energy will just continue. It's back to basics for me. I know if something is healthy so I don't lack the education. I know how great I feel when I exercise more and i was feeling my absolute best when i was doing it twice a day. I'm basically eating terrible and exercising every 3 days at this point.

Bad habits-
increased alcohol consumption
no consistency in grocery shopping and when i do pick up a few things, half of it is crap like BBQ sauce, cereal, thin crackers and beer
I'm coming home, smoking weed and then unmotivated the rest of the night

What I need to do-
limit carbs (sugar, tortillas, sandwiches and snacks at work)
grocery shop so I can go back to cooking all my meals and not buying garbage
exercise every day, if not twice a day on most days to boost mood and energy in AM/PM
limit drinking to one weekend night

I'm typing this out and sharing because I basically have become lazy or comfortable with the bit of progress I made and haven't sustained my routine. I don't have the drive I previously had. I don't have the energy and incredible feeling that I wanted to bottle up and share with as many people as I could. It was basically a lot of awesome natural highs that I want back with the active lifestyle I was living and the weather is simply perfect for it right now so hiking, biking and just about anything outdoors in Phoenix should be easy. Maybe I should consider an actual gym to supplement the hiking as well. I made a list like this 3 months ago or so and I sucked at following through so I am acting on this now and not tomorrow.

I can't help but read the success stories here and even peoples gym check ins on facebook and think I'm capable of that, what happened? It's a great reminder of what I can do and what I need to do. Everytime I see a check in I think hmm this person has worked out twice today and I haven't done it in 3 days. Instead i'm tired and eating a lot of food. I need a huge kick in the ass!

Keep up the incredible work people. I love seeing your success every single day. Both small and big victories. Forward progress is all those of us who might be struggling need. Make changes and sustain them. Share to inspire.

[TomAz]

I also really slipped this summer. I am probably now in the worst shape I've been in in two years. I have started exercising again, but the amount of effort needed to do what used to be easy for me is .. well it's just weird. I was out yesterday and I was like, "why is my heart beating so hard? this used to be a piece of cake".

One thing I found when I was not exercising is that I'd start drinking beer earlier in the evening which meant I would drink more. So I'm burning fewer calories while consuming more. Great.

I just ordered an iPhone last week and I've already been scouting walking apps -- which know is geeky as hell but this sort of shit really motivates me. stuff like iMapMyWalk+ ("http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/imapmywalk-walking-running/id307860824?mt=8) just looks cool as hell to me.

I want to lose 10-15 pounds by the end of the year. or at least by Coachella.

[locachica73]

I need to get motivated also, I keep wanting to join a zumba dance class or a gym or something but never do it. I want to at least fit back into my skinnier jeans, I went to buy clothes the other day and went back up a size. That is the wrong direction. I can never seem to find the motivation though, I just prefer to lay in bed and watch tv. :(

[chiapet]

Mark, something I've noticed of myself is that earlier in the year I had very specific short term targets that I was motivated for and excited about - for example, losing some weight before Coachella. My excitement about Coachella fed my motivation to stick to the plan. Now the goals I am setting seem some what arbitrary with no 'reward' in sight. And I'm having a lot more trouble sticking to them now. I'm trying to think of something fair (yet substantial enough) to reward myself so that I am more motivated. :)

[faxman75]

I just ordered an iPhone last week and I've already been scouting walking apps -- which know is geeky as hell but this sort of shit really motivates me. stuff like iMapMyWalk+ ("http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/imapmywalk-walking-running/id307860824?mt=8) just looks cool as hell to me.

I want to lose 10-15 pounds by the end of the year. or at least by Coachella.

The app thing is pretty useful. People are constantly asking for tips on which apps are the best in this thread and even in person when talking to friends. It's excellent for tracking and accountability and some even allow you to track food as well as distinguishing between the different types of exercises like hiking, running, biking etc. etc.

[faxman75]

Mark, something I've noticed of myself is that earlier in the year I had very specific short term targets that I was motivated for and excited about - for example, losing some weight before Coachella. My excitement about Coachella fed my motivation to stick to the plan. Now the goals I am setting seem some what arbitrary with no 'reward' in sight. And I'm having a lot more trouble sticking to them now. I'm trying to think of something fair (yet substantial enough) to reward myself so that I am more motivated. :)

I was hoping a short term goal would work. Europe for 11 days over Thanksgiving was the short term goal I wanted to be down some weight for but that didn't seem to work which is why i'm thinking I need to use how fantastic I felt when I was doing things the right way. More energy, looking forward to exercise and stuff. The feeling seems to be the most important part of it all for me so i'm trying to dwell on that. Whenever I seem to put a date out there, I start making excuses like, eh no big deal I have already done pretty well. I need to raise the bar and work for it a bit. I've been very lazy.

[psychic friend]

I can't help but read the success stories here and even peoples gym check ins on facebook and think I'm capable of that, what happened? ..... Everytime I see a check in I think hmm this person has worked out twice today and I haven't done it in 3 days.

when i see you about to check into Ihop I almost go scold you on your page. maybe you need some ass whooping?

[chiapet]

I see PF's check ins to the gym while I am on the couch watching tivo with a bowl of ice cream in my hand. It does make me feel guilty, but apparently not enough to put down the ice cream.

[faxman75]

You definitely should have. I justified it by taking the child and then ordered something from the healthy menu, I think it was a 400 cal breakfast but then I fucked it all up by eating two more pancakes and smothering them with butter and syrup. So wrong. I did hike that day but man that was counter productive. Dedication and focus. I should not be acting passive about this anymore. It's a requirement for my overall health.

Honestly PF, you have awesome drive and I swear I know what that feels like and it wasn't that long ago that I had it. Now i'm going to get it back.

[guedita]

I'm pretty sure I've lost a few pounds just because it's physically more challenging to stuff my face constantly while I'm on crutches. I have also definitely toned and strengthen my arms crutching around everywhere. I am motivated basically to get my knee back into running shape and was finally able to hop on the bike today at physical therapy. I'm also moving to a new apartment complex that has a gym in it, so I won't really have an excuse not to work out when I'm finally able to.

[NachoCat]

Im doing pretty good. 2 cupcakes for lunch instead of 3.

[psychic friend]

You definitely should have.
.............
Honestly PF, you have awesome drive and I swear I know what that feels like and it wasn't that long ago that I had it. Now i'm going to get it back.

I will from now on when I notice that nonsense.

And it took a long time to get the drive to go consistently and I had to build up and I don't get to have things I want as often or as much as I want. I rather just couch surf indefinitely. but then shopping is not fun.

[frizzlefry]

frizzle: Use MyTracks. It's Google's own tracking app. It'll give you distance and speed and elevation and all that stuff. You can then upload/save the route right to your Google Maps.

Here's one I did awhile back: http://goo.gl/Ldkm5 (click on the red arrow to see stats).

You don't have to worry about it losing your signal. GPS does not need a cell/data connection to work, just a decently clear sky.

Thank you!

[Courtney]

I feel pretty awful lately. I need to turn things around and I need to start now or the vicious cycle of being tired and eating poorly leading to no energy will just continue. It's back to basics for me. I know if something is healthy so I don't lack the education. I know how great I feel when I exercise more and i was feeling my absolute best when i was doing it twice a day. I'm basically eating terrible and exercising every 3 days at this point.

Bad habits-
increased alcohol consumption
no consistency in grocery shopping and when i do pick up a few things, half of it is crap like BBQ sauce, cereal, thin crackers and beer
I'm coming home, smoking weed and then unmotivated the rest of the night

What I need to do-
limit carbs (sugar, tortillas, sandwiches and snacks at work)
grocery shop so I can go back to cooking all my meals and not buying garbage
exercise every day, if not twice a day on most days to boost mood and energy in AM/PM
limit drinking to one weekend night

I'm typing this out and sharing because I basically have become lazy or comfortable with the bit of progress I made and haven't sustained my routine. I don't have the drive I previously had. I don't have the energy and incredible feeling that I wanted to bottle up and share with as many people as I could. It was basically a lot of awesome natural highs that I want back with the active lifestyle I was living and the weather is simply perfect for it right now so hiking, biking and just about anything outdoors in Phoenix should be easy. Maybe I should consider an actual gym to supplement the hiking as well. I made a list like this 3 months ago or so and I sucked at following through so I am acting on this now and not tomorrow.

I can't help but read the success stories here and even peoples gym check ins on facebook and think I'm capable of that, what happened? It's a great reminder of what I can do and what I need to do. Everytime I see a check in I think hmm this person has worked out twice today and I haven't done it in 3 days. Instead i'm tired and eating a lot of food. I need a huge kick in the ass!

Keep up the incredible work people. I love seeing your success every single day. Both small and big victories. Forward progress is all those of us who might be struggling need. Make changes and sustain them. Share to inspire.


You definitely should have. I justified it by taking the child and then ordered something from the healthy menu, I think it was a 400 cal breakfast but then I fucked it all up by eating two more pancakes and smothering them with butter and syrup. So wrong. I did hike that day but man that was counter productive. Dedication and focus. I should not be acting passive about this anymore. It's a requirement for my overall health.

Honestly PF, you have awesome drive and I swear I know what that feels like and it wasn't that long ago that I had it. Now i'm going to get it back.

Aw Mark, sorry to hear that you're having some difficulty moving forward. All of your posts and momentum was serious motivation to me to get going.

Exercising twice or three times a week is still really good! I don't think you need to beat yourself up over that. I mean, every little thing is a step in the right direction, right? I know it's hard, because I do the same thing to myself, but it's much healthier to be able to applaud your small victories than to berate yourself over what you're not doing. And hopefully that positive energy will be self-reinforcing and encourage you to keep going to greater and greater degrees.

In terms of the eating, do you go grocery shopping when you are hungry? Are you making a shopping list and sticking to it? I find that's really my best way to self-moderate my eating: I sit down at work or something other calm, neutral environment and I make a shopping list. Then, I go to the grocery store when I'm NOT hungry, and I ONLY buy what is on the list. Then, I take the groceries home and prep everything immediately so I have lots of pre-portioned healthy snacks and meals waiting to be eaten. Granted, easier said than done -- I need to get back to doing this myself!

And I will totally call you out if I see unhealthy stuff too :)

[Courtney]

I just ordered an iPhone last week and I've already been scouting walking apps -- which know is geeky as hell but this sort of shit really motivates me. stuff like iMapMyWalk+ ("http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/imapmywalk-walking-running/id307860824?mt=8) just looks cool as hell to me.

I have a way old and not very well functioning iPhone 3g, and whenever I try to use iMapMyWalk, it loses the GPS signal half way through and then doesn't track anything. It disappoints me that it doesn't just fill in the blanks -- I mean, if there is a bit of missing data, it would make sense to just connect a straight line between the two next closest data points. But the app is not that smart and instead just erases the entire route, which is super annoying.

I look forward to one day getting a new phone where things will work!

[psychic friend]

I echo what Court says about not shopping when you are hungry.. and pre-portioning snacks (i will divide a bag of baked chips into the actual number of servings in zip locks because otherwise I would eat multiple servings in a few breaths). I try not to buy snakcy stuff. Its funny though, I still get up and LOOK in the fridge and cupboard often.. but there is nothing to grab. I don't know how long it takes the habit of getting up to look to go away.

[Courtney]

Also, speaking of pre-preping food and having healthy options ready to go, I really like this blog entry on make-ahead breakfasts (http://www.thekitchn.com/thekitchn/recipe-roundup/10-makeahead-breakfasts-to-start-your-day-off-right-recipe-roundup-155762). It's so easy to dash out of my apartment without fueling up. Maybe I should try to start making breakfast the night before the same way I do for lunch.

(Obviously not all of the above are super healthy -- ahem pancetta and gruyere casserole -- but some of the ideas are quite good. I definitely want to try making the calfoutis and also the crustless quiches, substituting out the cream for 2% and egg for egg white.

[chiapet]

I don't know if the habit ever goes away? If I'm looking to the fridge or cupboard, I try to figure out if I'm actually hungry or just bored. Thankfully I really like healthy snacks. Don't get me wrong - if there is something unhealthy on hand, I will eat that. But if I don't have any of that stuff, then I happily snack on something healthy. I've been trying to keep lots and lots of fruit on hand, as well as having crudite type things in the fridge at all times.

A long-ish time ago when I wanted to start making changes in the way I was eating, I traded in my enormous dishware for smaller versions. I'd thought back to when I was growing up, the dinner plates my family used were really small. At some point over the years, we (or I) had switched to using these really large plates like at restaurants.

That has probably been the most influential change I've made. I have these little bowls I use for snacks that hold about 1/2C of whatever. It's practically impossible to go overboard when I use those. Similarly my dinner plates are pretty small, so I can't load them up with food. That forces me to take smaller portions. Sometimes I may decide to have more, but at least I'm not just continuing to eat more because it was already on my plate. It's totally psychological - having a small plate full of food makes me feel like I am eating enough, whereas putting the same amount of food on a big plate would make me feel like I'm dieting. :)

[Courtney]

I echo what Court says about not shopping when you are hungry.. and pre-portioning snacks (i will divide a bag of baked chips into the actual number of servings in zip locks because otherwise I would eat multiple servings in a few breaths). I try not to buy snakcy stuff. Its funny though, I still get up and LOOK in the fridge and cupboard often.. but there is nothing to grab. I don't know how long it takes the habit of getting up to look to go away.

Yeah, snacky stuff is the death of me. I definitely try to avoid having stuff like chips in the house. But I do like to snack. A lot. So I try to keep things around like sugar snap peas, cubed canteloupe, edamame, almonds, lowfat greek yogurt, and clementines.

[chiapet]

Breakfast is tough for me, too, Courtney. I'm inclined to skip breakfast if I don't plan ahead, and then I end up being too hungry and overeating at lunch. Fortunately I'm not a person who needs a ton of variety, so I make several days' worth of breakfast at once, to get me through the busiest part of my work week.

My usual breakfast is something like this: a cup of vegetable juice, a small turkey patty, a piece of cheese, and a piece of fruit. Sometimes instead of veggie juice, I have some fresh or cooked veggies. That's a rather large meal, but if I start the day that way, I'm not very hungry at all for the rest of the day. I make the turkey patties a few at a time, and mix the ground turkey with a variety of spices/herbs so it's not so bland. I keep everything in tupperware or ziplocs in my fridge so that it's really easy to gather it up in the morning when I'm heading to work.

[Courtney]

Yeah, I get bored super quickly. It's a problem. I have a zojirushi fuzzy logic rice cooker with a built-in timer, which I love because I can put steel cut oats in it in the evening and then wake up in the morning to hot oatmeal ready to go, but I find that gets boring more than a couple days per week.

I don't know about turkey patties for breakfast though -- I think (ironically considering my need for variation) I'm a bit more of a traditionalist about wanting more "breakfasty" breakfasts.

[faxman75]

Exercising twice or three times a week is still really good! I don't think you need to beat yourself up over that. I mean, every little thing is a step in the right direction, right?

I'm beating myself up just a little ;) If I was eating like a normal person I probably would be just fine with the 2-3 times a week of exercise. I really do just feel good when I do exercise daily so that seems to be the mental sticking point. If I feel god doing it, why is it i've become lazy and less happy? I swear this is rooted mentally and i've been assuming as much for quite some time. For some reason or self pity or something I feel I don't deserve to feel great as often as possible so I tend to sabotage myself. Persistence will pay off though.



In terms of the eating, do you go grocery shopping when you are hungry?

Nope. I learned that's bad a long time ago.


Are you making a shopping list and sticking to it? I find that's really my best way to self-moderate my eating: I sit down at work or something other calm, neutral environment and I make a shopping list. Then, I go to the grocery store when I'm NOT hungry, and I ONLY buy what is on the list. Then, I take the groceries home and prep everything immediately so I have lots of pre-portioned healthy snacks and meals waiting to be eaten. Granted, easier said than done -- I need to get back to doing this myself!

And I will totally call you out if I see unhealthy stuff too :)

My grocery shopping is 95% good and I do have set things that I buy and replenish when needed. The problem is when I make excuses for not going to the grocery store or i'm traveling and eating out. I'm pretty busy so it doesn't take much to put anything and everything off. The problem is my prioritizing. If I grocery shop and rarely go out to eat and drink, I can get in a routine of exercising daily, preparing my lunch the night before and all that jazz. Lately because i'm gone most weekends i'm drinking and eating in a horrible way while vacationing. Then I come home and get these immature ideas that it would be fun to extend vacation. I literally will walk in the door sometimes and put down my bags and pour a vodka drink and then another and hey, i'm drunk. Then it's time for bed and the next day i'm too tired to get up and exercise and I haven't made any lunch and so the cycle continues and turns into depression and I never get the energy back. It's almost entirely a lack of discipline. I was able to do balance it all quite well for a bit but at some point fun overtook health and started to say fuck it more and more.

Thanks Courtney and you can definitely call me out as can anyone else!



I echo what Court says about not shopping when you are hungry.. and pre-portioning snacks (i will divide a bag of baked chips into the actual number of servings in zip locks because otherwise I would eat multiple servings in a few breaths). I try not to buy snakcy stuff. Its funny though, I still get up and LOOK in the fridge and cupboard often.. but there is nothing to grab. I don't know how long it takes the habit of getting up to look to go away.

Never. I stopped buying snacks for so long and finally gave in and started to buy cereal and then crackers. Terrible. I used to open the cabinet and stare and wonder to myself why I keep thinking something is going to appear ha ha. I thought I had a good solution which was to have some fruit before bed. That would solve my sugar craving in a healthy way. I haven't been able to create that habit though.

[Courtney]

Heh. We need some sort of support system the way that people in AA have sponsors they can call if they are going to do something bad. Fax, do you have my number? You should call me when you get home from these weekends and are tempted to just hang out instead of doing your shopping and prep.

[Courtney]

Alsoooo, I just got a phone call from Sandy, who is hopefully going to be my new personal trainer! I just set up an initial consultation meeting for tomorrow after work. I totally don't have the money to have a personal trainer, but I figure maybe we can meet a couple times so that I get into a routine and then step it down to twice or once a month once I get the momentum.

[chiapet]

I guess I'm lucky that I don't really like most of the less healthy breakfast stuff, and I'm used to eating "normal" foods in the morning. I had kale for breakfast yesterday. :)

My trick to healthy grocery shopping is derived from my lack of personal transportation. I walk or take the bus to buy groceries and have to carry home what I buy -- that's great motivation to stay away from items not on my list, as well as avoiding processed foods (stuff that comes in jars, cans, etc is always much heavier). Once every couple of months I'll stock up on dry goods and staples, but my regular trips to the grocery are just fresh veggies, fresh fruit, dairy (eggs/cottage cheese/cheese) and sometimes wheat bread.

[ThatGirl]

My problem is at night. I'll eat healthy all day and then scarf on a bag of chips and dip at night. It's totally my ruin.

[faxman75]

ThatGirl, yep. Me too. Night time is the most difficult. It's easier for me to stick to a routine when my day is structured with work. I would like to have eggs and some whole grain toast before work, a mid morning banana for a snack, prepared lunch, mid afternoon apple and then come home and prepare dinner and have some fruit in the evening. That would be ideal for me. Instead I end up munching on the most absurd things in the world. Seriously. I'm a teenage stoner putting peanut butter and cool wip on a lo carb tortilla or some other ridiculous thing.

Courtney, I do not have your number if you like you can PM it to me. The idea is to talk to you without the drink in my hand? Why does that sound difficult? ha ha. I feel like I sound like an alcoholic the way I talk about drinking. In reality I used to drink once every 2-3 months. Since aroud May, I started drinking more because I started socializing more and hanging out with people locally more. Then I started shopping for booze and then it was just so much fun i've built up to drinking probably 3 nights a week which makes it counterproductive when i'm only exercising that much. I'm going to cut back now to no more than 1 night a week. I made the mistake of finding beer I enjoy though. It was easy to not drink when I all I cared to drink was miller lite. Now i'm all "ooh, what's that taste like, oooh blueberry beer? pumpkin beer? really?!" It's silly, so one night a week and no more. I'm going to try hard ha.

[chiapet]

I've gone the opposite direction - I don't drink very often compared to my old habits. Once I started cutting back, I found that drinking doesn't make me feel very good. (Not that I'm drinking enough to have hangovers, it's just more noticeable to me now that my body doesn't love alcohol). There is nothing wrong with drinking a few times a week - one beer or glass of wine a night is supposedly good for you - it's about moderation though.

Again, this is another way in which car-less shopping helps. I stretch out a 6 pack because I don't want to have to carry another one home. ;)

Shop as if you had to carry it all home instead of driving it! :)

[insbordnat]

Yeah, I get bored super quickly. It's a problem. I have a zojirushi fuzzy logic rice cooker with a built-in timer, which I love because I can put steel cut oats in it in the evening and then wake up in the morning to hot oatmeal ready to go, but I find that gets boring more than a couple days per week.

Now why didn't I think about doing that? do you just use the "porridge" setting? Or isn't that for congee?

[insbordnat]

Maybe I'm just a weirdo, but I don't feel all that deprived when I've gotten out of my bad habits for a couple of days straight. I know it takes some willpower to get there, but once I've hit it, my cravings go away and my "addiction" to crap has subsided.

I've said it a couple of times on here, but I cannot recommend Body For Life enough. Not only is it a sound way of eating, but it gives enough flexibility in your meals during the week that you're not feeling like you're "dieting" constantly. For me giving up most sugars and refined white flours/grains also really makes sense. For those of you interested, visit http://bodyforlife.com/library for some good articles and to get a sense of the program.

[Courtney]

Now why didn't I think about doing that? do you just use the "porridge" setting? Or isn't that for congee?

Yes, you use the "porridge" setting, but instead of filling up the water to the line on the cooking container, use a ratio of three parts water to one part steel cut oats. And ONLY use steel cut oats -- regular rolled oats don't hold up well and turn into gross slop. And when it is finished cooking, it will still require a quick stir to even out the thickness from top to bottom.

I also like to add chopped dried fruit like figs or apricots in with the water and oats the night before, because then by the time it is done, the fruit has absorbed the cooking liquid and is all plump and juicy. I'll top with some chopped walnuts and honey and maybe even some grated coconut, and it's pretty fabulous.

Sometime I am going to try doing it like this (http://www.dailygarnish.com/2010/01/how-to-rice-cooker-oatmeal-pb2-topping.html).

[chiapet]

Geezus. PB2? More ways to kill me.

I need to try using my rice cooker to make oatmeal. It gets a pretty steady workout cooking up brown rice and wild rice though.

[Courtney]

That PB2 stuff looks pretty good to me. As someone who doesn't have to worry about peanut allergies, obviously.

I'm feeling really nervous about my first personal trainer meeting later today. Is there anything special I should do to prep?

[psychic friend]

be empty so you dont have anything to throw up from the hardest work out ever.

[insbordnat]

Hydrate like a mofo.
Have a energy packed snack before.
Do some focused meditation and think about how great of a workout you'll have. Think about your goals for the session and what you want to get out of it.

Have some fun!!!!!!

[LooseAtTheZoo]

What kind of healthy snacks do people like to munch on? I need to get better about loading up on healthy things so I don't end up always cooking a full meal when I'm hungry. right now I'll make my own hummus pretty often. I also eat wasabi peas, peanut butter pretzels, carrots, grapes, and the like.

Suggestions for variation?

[faxman75]

I eat raw almonds, bananas and most any kind of fruit. They make bold Wasabi & Soy Almonds though i'm not sure how healthy they are.

[Courtney]

be empty so you dont have anything to throw up from the hardest work out ever.


Hydrate like a mofo.
Have a energy packed snack before.
Do some focused meditation and think about how great of a workout you'll have. Think about your goals for the session and what you want to get out of it.

Have some fun!!!!!!

Oh gosh, I'm pretty sure it's just a preliminary meeting to discuss fitness plans and goals. I hope!

[Courtney]

What kind of healthy snacks do people like to munch on? I need to get better about loading up on healthy things so I don't end up always cooking a full meal when I'm hungry. right now I'll make my own hummus pretty often. I also eat wasabi peas, peanut butter pretzels, carrots, grapes, and the like.

Suggestions for variation?


I eat raw almonds, bananas and most any kind of fruit. They make bold Wasabi & Soy Almonds though i'm not sure how healthy they are.

Those are good suggestions. Nutritionists always say that snacks should involve both lowfat protein and complex carbohydrate, because that will keep you full for the longest, so I try to follow that guideline as much as possible. Some of my favorite snacks:

-Hummus (or raita) with carrots (or whole wheat pita)
-Apple slices and peanut/almond butter
-Clementine and a handful of tamari-roasted almonds
-Turkey deli meat slices rolled around grilled asparagus
-Hard-boiled egg (whites only, sometimes)
-Edamame
-Guacamole with carrot sticks or bell pepper strips
-Smoothie with half a banana, a spoon of peanut butter, 3/4 cup nonfat chocolate almond breeze, and ice
-Greek yogurt with berries
-Vietnamese summer roll with tofu, bean sprouts, mint and basil rolled in a rice paper wrapper, with chili-vinegar dipping sauce
-Tabouleh
-Nonfat latte
-Some roasted chicken breast with a pear and whole grain mustard
-Tuna and white beans with fresh-squeezed lemon juice and chopped parsley

[chiapet]

I'm feeling really nervous about my first personal trainer meeting later today. Is there anything special I should do to prep?

Don't be nervous! My trainer session actually didn't really kick my butt /that/ badly... I was a little sore but not too bad, when I left. The next day? Ouch.

[insbordnat]

Those are good suggestions. Nutritionists always say that snacks should involve both lowfat protein and complex carbohydrate, because that will keep you full for the longest, so I try to follow that guideline as much as possible.

Courtney has it spot on. I'd stay away from peanut butter pretzels you mentioned, mostly because of the enriched white flour.

For a protein snack, I try to eat fish like crazy. Smoked herring (kippers), smoked trout (both at trader joe's), smoked salmon, chicken breast, tuna, and the like are all great. Obviously eat tuna in moderation.

Ak-Mak crackers or Wasa crackers (both whole wheat) are excellent choices. Hell, a little turkey breast on a Oroweat sandwich thin is also delicious.

I also have a Myoplex shake as a mid-morning meal. 300 calories, a ton of protein, and low in sugar. It's filling too because of the casein.

As a general rule of thumb, I don't treat my snacks as a snack, rather it's a meal (one of my 6 I eat each day). Therefore, each "meal" is complete (complex carb + protein) and not boring. Yeah, they may tend to be on the smaller side, but I've totally had a portion of black beans and chicken, lentils and fish, etc. etc. around 3pm to hold me over until my "first dinner".

[faxman75]

Great snack suggestions. I'm going to have to try some of those. The apple slices with almond butter sounds delicious.

The hike has turned into a painful experience. The last two days i've had to stop multiple times due to back pain and my lower back tingling doing numb. I haven't really experienced that since I started all of this back in December. I'm thinking it's because i've been eating too many carbs. I'm going to seriously limit my carbs for the next couple of days and see if that changes things. The hike is also taking me almost 30 minutes which is how long it was taking me when I first started.

[Courtney]

Ak-Mak crackers or Wasa crackers (both whole wheat) are excellent choices. Hell, a little turkey breast on a Oroweat sandwich thin is also delicious.

YES! I love Ak Mak. I grew up with a box in the house pretty much at all times.


The hike has turned into a painful experience. The last two days i've had to stop multiple times due to back pain and my lower back tingling doing numb. I haven't really experienced that since I started all of this back in December. I'm thinking it's because i've been eating too many carbs. I'm going to seriously limit my carbs for the next couple of days and see if that changes things. The hike is also taking me almost 30 minutes which is how long it was taking me when I first started.

Sorry to hear you're having difficulties, Mark. Why do you think that back pain would be caused by carbs? It doesn't seem like a very obvious correlation to me. Usually back pain is due to overly-strained back muscles. Although the tingling and numbness makes it sound like you may have a pinched nerve.

Edit: And if it IS a pinched nerve or strained muscles, the best thing to do is rest the back muscles, and use ibuprofen to relieve inflammation around the problem area. Future pain can be avoided by strengthening the muscles in the area (you'll want to work on your core muscles by doing crunches and whatnot so that the abdominal muscles begin to take the majority of the work instead of the back muscles), and working on your posture.

[Courtney]

To report back on my first personal training session yesterday: Totally NOT scary. We sat and talked about my current fitness level, activity level, eating habits, and goals. Then she went over what sort of plan she would recommend for me, and we did some very basic exercises so she could gauge my strength, flexibility and endurance.

The plan is that we're going to meet twice a week to start with me doing independent work on 3-4 of the off-days, and then bump it down to once per week once I pick up the skills and can do more on my own. I'm also keeping a food journal. My next session is tomorrow morning at 6am!

Apparently my flexibility is crap -- especially my hamstrings -- but my ability to replicate precise motions with correct form after seeing them once is excellent. Who knew.

[insbordnat]

How disappointing. I was hoping to hear stories of your blowing chunks in the parking lot. Oh well, at least it sounds like you got a lot out of it! :D

[chairmenmeow47]

glad to hear the personal training session went well, courtney!

healthy snacks: grapes, almonds, pistacios, string cheese, popcorn (no butter).

so going out of town for a few days made for an unfun calorie logging session today lol. man, i really pigged out while in la! who can say no to beignets?!

i am so grateful for being able to walk between buildings for meetings, but it's starting to get busier. i also hope that being back in school doesn't ruin my motivation.

[g1zzz]

It's my first time posting in here and I really hope it's not my last. Anyway, today I did something I haven't done since I was a freshman cheerleader in high school six years ago, and that would be running a mile non-stop. I'm not trying to say I can run a damn marathon or anything like that, but I'm really proud of myself since I did gain 50+ pounds since then. I'm finding that repeating the same phrase my coach would yell at us when we looked about ready to give up helps a lot. "Suck it up, princess."

[bmack86]

I need to get out of October and back into fighting shape. This month has been so busy I've barely had time to sleep, let alone exercise or cook healthy meals.

[Courtney]

g1zzz, I like that -- "suck it up princess" -- and think I may use it. I wish I could remember what my high school rowing coach, who was a super hardcore Norwegian first-wave feminist lesbian with a blonde mustache, used to tell us. Whatever it was, it was very effective.

[chiapet]

My cheerleading coaching mostly just sat on the floor not so subtly looking up our skirts while we practiced.

[Courtney]

So I had my second personal training session this morning at 6am, and apparently it was today that she wanted to push me so hard that I got dizzy and felt like I was going to throw up. Thankfully, I didn't actually throw up. Because I had eaten steel cut oats with blueberries, and that would have been gross. I can already tell that my triceps and thighs are going to be way sore this evening and tomorrow morning. I'm glad I don't have anything strenuous planned.

She also said that steel cut oats don't have enough protein in them to be a good breakfast (1/2 cup dry has the equivalent amount of protein to 2 large eggs, but I usually only use 1/4 cup dry and add in lots of fruit). So I need to start adding eggs or something to my breakfasts. I'm thinking maybe turkey bacon.



EDIT:
....Annnnnnd it's official. As of 2pm, I can't walk down stairs without wincing at my thigh muscles.

[chairmenmeow47]

hope you're feeling more mobile, courtney :) i have gotten used to turkey bacon and like it because it's crispier.

i've lost about 2 solid pounds. i fluctuate in weight so much, it can be hard to tell. i'm glad to be back in the exercise groove. been doing yoga once a week and am finally able to hula-hoop again. i'm finding time to walk 6 days a week and walking between buildings at work is really keeping me on track.

i think i need a food scale to truly understand how much i'm eating. i'm doing better, but i pretty much always go over 1200 calories. not usually by much, but like others have said the late night snacking gets the best of me.

[Mr. Fuzz]

My biceps are feeling sore : )

I went no stop > maxout pullups > 10 striaght bar preacher curls > one arm side preacher w/ dumbels > other arm side preacher w/ dumbels > one arm cable curls > other arm cable curls > flex arm both cable curls > rest 3x's

ho fucker

[Courtney]

Go Mr. Fuzz!

Ivy, good job getting back into the groove. I definitely have found that a food scale helped me to better understand what I was eating, when I first got one a couple years ago. I mean, most things you can just measure out with a measuring cup, but for proteins like fish or chicken you really need a scale to know for sure. Now I hardly use it anymore because I have learned to be very good at estimating by sight -- but in the beginning having one was great! And really, they are only $20 from Amazon and can be used for all sorts of other useful things like postage, as well.

[Courtney]

I am super proud of myself that I rocked out the workouts this week:

Monday: 60 mins swimming + 60 mins cycling
Tuesday: 60 mins swimming + 60 mins cycling
Wednesday: 30 mins circuit/weights + 60 mins cycling
Thursday: 45 mins elliptical + 60 mins cycling
Friday: 60 mins circuit/weights + 60 mins cycling
Saturday: 60 mins rollerskating
Sunday: 120 mins hiking

Woohooooooo :)

[ThatGirl]

I have stepped up my workouts as well. Going to Zumba 5 days a week now. Just need to get my eating in line. I think seasoned potato chips (like BBQ and ranch) and philly dip is my downfall.

[psychic friend]

Court and ThatGirl that is amazing! I need to refind my motivation to go more. It's slipped a bit the last week. Funny I feel guilty only have put in 6 hours gym time last week. sadly I need to go more than that to get results. grrrrrrrr

[Courtney]

Wow PF! Six hours per week seems pretty good to me -- but what do I know. You're the one who is kicking ass and taking names.

What sort of stuff do you usually do at the gym?

[ThatGirl]

Courtney and PF - you are both really rocking it. It's especially good to do all these different activities and not always do the same thing. I should incorporate some more strength exercises into my regimen instead of just dancing all time.

[chairmenmeow47]

i agree with mixing it up. i definitely don't do any strength training. i've been doing the yoga more frequently since i've been super duper sore. today i felt inspired by courtney to mix it up and did some dancercise, the jazz dvd. i can't believe how sweaty i am! i want some better dancercise dvds. two of the four are alright, but the instructors slip up on their instructions sometimes and that makes it hard to keep up. and yesterday i was ten calories under my daily allotment, woo-hoo!

[Newro7ic]

220.
55lbs lost.

First goal is 210. Almost there.

[Courtney]

Awww yay Ivy! I love switching things up, mostly because I get bored easily when I fall into a routine. Also because it means I can go hard without worrying too much about over-use injuries :)

And congrats Newro7ic! That's fantastic!

[psychic friend]

at the gym.. i usually do an hour of cardio most mornings that I can wake up early (3 times a week-ish). and sometimes will add 1/2 to an hour of cardio at night after work. The gym is 1 mile away, very close, easy to pop over for a quick 1/2 hour on the elliptical. I have no excuse not to pop over there for that. its so easy and 1/2 hour just flies by. Then sometimes i'll just keep going. Might as well if I got nothing better to do than sit on the couch and eat.

i try to do 2 hours of cardio on one or both days of the weekend.

my goal is to do 25 minutes cardio warm up and 35 minutes weights on 2 - 3 times a week however thus far since starting weights 3 weeks ago i have only done that 1-2 times a week. I do the weights in the morning cuz its dead at the gym and I don't have to wait to use any of the machines. I actually like the weight days. It's nice to break up that hour into both cardio and machines.

[EastLos01]

220.
55lbs lost.

First goal is 210. Almost there.

Congrats, That is awesome.

I had totally fallen off the wagon for about a month, but my dance classes started up last night just in time. Luckily I didn't gain much weight back in that month, but I did lose stamina, and I felt it last night. Glad to be back on track.

Keep up the great work all.

[Courtney]

at the gym.. i usually do an hour of cardio most mornings that I can wake up early (3 times a week-ish). and sometimes will add 1/2 to an hour of cardio at night after work. The gym is 1 mile away, very close, easy to pop over for a quick 1/2 hour on the elliptical. I have no excuse not to pop over there for that. its so easy and 1/2 hour just flies by. Then sometimes i'll just keep going. Might as well if I got nothing better to do than sit on the couch and eat.

i try to do 2 hours of cardio on one or both days of the weekend.

my goal is to do 25 minutes cardio warm up and 35 minutes weights on 2 - 3 times a week however thus far since starting weights 3 weeks ago i have only done that 1-2 times a week. I do the weights in the morning cuz its dead at the gym and I don't have to wait to use any of the machines. I actually like the weight days. It's nice to break up that hour into both cardio and machines.

That's seriously impressive. I hope I can work up to having that sort of drive.

[Courtney]

Also, I know I'm sore when it's painful to even keep my foot at the proper incline for my car's gas pedal. Dang.

[chairmenmeow47]

inspired by the machines that are psychic friend & courtney, i worked out for a longer time than normal today.

30 minutes of hula-hooping
25 minutes of yoga
27 minutes of walking
20 minutes of pilates

I'VE EARNED MY COOKIE!

[weeklymix]

I count 47 minutes of working out.

[phonographer]

I just started my P90X workouts on Monday and I'm keeping a blog to help keep me motivated and focused. Having not done any exercise for over 3 months has really bothered me. Consumption of alcohol was my main weakness in the past, but feel I've really made some strides against that. Still, I'm keeping my eye on my hand to make sure it is rarely occupied by a glass bottle.

Here's to everyone reaching/surpassing there goals!

:)

[Vasoline Groove]

Wow lots of inspiration in this thread. Just joined the gym a block away on Monday. Got to ramp up to the levels of cardio you guys are posting in here, but glad to be back on the horse. Hopefully I'll be looking svelte by Chella!

[chairmenmeow47]

I count 47 minutes of working out.

i count one weekly asshole

[weeklymix]

Hey it's 47 more minutes than I exercised today. I definitely did 55 minutes worth of stuff cooler than yoga and hula hoop, though.

[caeden]

55 minutes of coding does not count

[vogina]

Niggers everywhere!

[chairmenmeow47]

Hey it's 47 more minutes than I exercised today. I definitely did 55 minutes worth of stuff cooler than yoga and hula hoop, though.

but were you naked?

[GuyInTucson]

but were you naked?

Were YOU and if so are there pics you can text me? ;)

[GuyInTucson]

So I was a little irritated a little under two weeks ago with my weight. I have consistently worked out for as far as I can remember, but I still was shocked when I stepped on the scale and it said 197pounds. At Coachella, I was at 170, but somewhere along the lines I stopped caring about my diet. I can usually tell when I pack on pounds but this time I didn't notice it at all.

So, I started watching what I was eating again and I am back to 190 already and I would like to get down to 170 again by April.

[ThatGirl]

I am struggling also. I'm still exercising but I can't get my food under control. I have maintained my weight but it's like I'm giving myself permission to be unhealthy for that reason, and I know it's going to get me in trouble. I was 2 lbs heavier this week, and those little amounts can creep up and get huge if I'm not careful. I want to be 128 before I head to the UK in December.

[TheScenestar]

Still at it! Lost a 1 since last post. I'm thinking of running in the morning for 30 min to mix into my afternoon gym. Just need to push myself a bit more. We'll keep updated to keep myself accountable. Cheers!

[Courtney]

In the past week, I have exercised 795 minutes, ate 1200-1500 calories per day, drank on average 9.2 cups water per day, slept 8 hours every single night, AND I GAINED 5 POUNDS. What. The. Fuck.

I give up.

[ThatGirl]

Court, Don't give up - what time of day are you weighing yourself, and is it the same time every day?

[Mr. Fuzz]

This song got me through my last couple minutes of cardio this morning.

CNans04xCII

[GuyInTucson]

In the past week, I have exercised 795 minutes, ate 1200-1500 calories per day, drank on average 9.2 cups water per day, slept 8 hours every single night, AND I GAINED 5 POUNDS. What. The. Fuck.

I give up.

I know that if you don't eat enough calories that your body goes into starvation mode and the calories you do intake get stored as fat. You actually may have to increase your calorie intake and eat about 5 small meals a day (if time permits).

Whatever you do, DO NOT GIVE UP! It will work. Dropping weight takes time and patience. Fighting through these rough patches is key.

[Courtney]

Thanks. I feel like 1500 calories per day is a pretty decent amount. But I don't know -- clearly something I'm doing isn't working. I definitely do eat lots of small meals. I find that I get hungry every 3-4 hours, so I make sure that I have something healthy to snack on at all times.

I weighed myself at night last night, so that could be part of the problem. I think the earlier weight was from a morning weigh-in. But still, 5 pounds?!

I am going to the gym right now to work out my frustration on the rowing machine.

[chairmenmeow47]

are you close to your cycle?

also, are you taking into account the calories you burn when you say 1500? cause i am supposed to eat 1200, but can eat more if i burn calories.

[GuyInTucson]

I believe the best time to weigh yourself is in the morning.

1500 would be plenty but I think 1200 is around the threshold. 1500 every day on a consistent basis may provide you with better results. Everyone is different though when it comes to weight loss.

Back in the early 2000's I struggled with weight problems. I was up in the 220-225 in 2000 (I am only 5'8") but I got back down in the 165-175 range in 2004. It took a while to lose the weight, but it happened. I went back over 200 in early 06 and I was almost there again recently. But I do notice that I carry my weight differently now because I didn't look anywhere near what my weight showed. I am back around 190 and I hope I am below 180 by Thanksgiving.

[Courtney]

1. I re-weighed myself this morning, and that earlier weigh-in must have been a fluke because I did not gain 5 lbs. Or if I did gain it, I then lost it immediately. This is the reason I generally focus on my strength and endurance and not weight. Focusing on weight only makes me insane.

2. My butt is freaking sore from doing a marathon session on the rowing machine the other day. Like, there is actually a visible bruise on my tailbone. I also could not use my abs to sit up from a lying down position for a good 24 hours.

3. I find myself neurotically calculating times to percentages when I'm doing cardio at the gym. I'll look at the count-down timer on the machine and think "ok, 53 minutes left on a 60 minute workout, that's 11.667% down" every two minutes for the entire workout. I really find other ways to occupy myself.

[psychic friend]

i thought my scale was broken yesterday because the number was so low and I have had a rough week. I skipped the gym more times than I have in months plus I was eating lots of halloween candy around the office. So the number on the scale made no sense. I went out and bought a new battery for it. lol. Its STILL that low. I am 1.5 pounds from my original goal. Every pair of jeans I have in my house fit. Even the last 2 that were too small a couple weeks ago. Once i finally hit my goal I plan to have a new goal of 5 less pounds. Then for maintenance I will try to stay with in those 5 pounds. SO CLOSE!

Everyone keep it up. This has been a great thread!

[psychic friend]

3. I find myself neurotically calculating times to percentages when I'm doing cardio at the gym. I'll look at the count-down timer on the machine and think "ok, 53 minutes left on a 60 minute workout, that's 11.667% down" every two minutes for the entire workout. I really find other ways to occupy myself.

i obsess over the numbers too. The time, calories, distance. all of it. Keep in mind that they are generally 30% wrong (as in you probably burn 30% less calories for real). I have this habit where i set the timer to go up and when i hit 30 minutes i change it to count down. I sometimes try to pick 3 really looonnng songs to get through the first half, because mentally It feels faster only hearing 3 songs and already being 1/2 way through my work out. The machine also flashes percent of time finished. 10% 20% etc. I know once I hit 60% that I'm good to go, the finish is in site. I feel really ADHD on there. lol

[g1zzz]

Courtney and pf, I do the same thing, except I do it in fractions. I always did favor them. Anyway, it gets ridiculous. "Awesome, I'm eight seventeenths of the way there!"

[mmsk123]

I was sick last week and did not work out all week. It's weird how working out consistently and then completely stopping makes you feel. I am so out of it and I am having sleeping issues and all of this stuff. I can't wait to start back tomorrow.

[Courtney]

Haa, pf and g1, I'm glad to know that I'm not the only one who is super obsessive about the numbers!

PF, congrats on being super freaking awesome. You're doing so well and so close to your goal! That's way exciting.

mmsk, I hope you feel better this week.

[Courtney]

I rocked out the workouts again this week:

Monday: 45 mins swimming + 90 mins yoga
Tuesday: 60 mins weights/circuits
Wednesday: rest day
Thursday: 45 mins elliptical + 90 mins yoga
Friday: 60 mins rowing machine
Saturday: 60 mins elliptical machine + 45 mins cycling
Sunday: 120 mins hiking + 45 mins swimming

YEAHHHH BABY.

[g1zzz]

Nice!

[ThatGirl]

Thanks. I feel like 1500 calories per day is a pretty decent amount. But I don't know -- clearly something I'm doing isn't working. I definitely do eat lots of small meals. I find that I get hungry every 3-4 hours, so I make sure that I have something healthy to snack on at all times.

I weighed myself at night last night, so that could be part of the problem. I think the earlier weight was from a morning weigh-in. But still, 5 pounds?!

I am going to the gym right now to work out my frustration on the rowing machine.

Due to water retention and other factors through the day you can see a 5 lb fluctuation in your weight. Guy is right -best thing is to weigh yourself at the same time, first thing in the morning, wearing the same thing.. (for me it's nothing) that way I always know the comparison is accurate.

[psychic friend]

COURTNEY - YOU DOING SO GOOD!

[EastLos01]

COURTNEY - YOU DOING SO GOOD!

You all are. Keep it up, and thanks again for the encouraging updates all.

Its crazy, I took a month off, and started dancing last week. Its amazing how quick you get back into the rythm of working out. Not like when I first started. I used to dread walking or jogging, now I'm like... ok now what else can I physically do?

[amyzzz]

Keep up the good work, Courtney!

[chairmenmeow47]

courtney makes us all look bad! you're amazing!

with halloween, i took a few days off. while i drank a lot, i think i countered it by dancing a lot friday night and running around saturday night. today i'm back on the train and looking forward to seeing more progress. i feel extra-motivated since i have another surgery 11/29 and want to go into it as healthy as possible.

[fatbastard]

Got a yearly physical last Friday. My blood pressure was "really good", but he's not too happy with the weight. I told him about the after dinner walks, but he wasn't impressed. He's telling me that I need to start working my heart. I need to start running hard for a full 8-12 minutes each night. He wants to see me again in 6 months. I've never had a doctor tell me to come back. Almost the entire time was spent about not smoking and loosing weight. I can't seem to come up with something funny to say about this.

[faxman75]

Courtney you haz inspire!

I am making a return to the gym this evening and I have grocery food so I should be able to go hard between now and when I go to Vienna in 2 weeks. It's time get back in it to win it!

[Courtney]

COURTNEY - YOU DOING SO GOOD!


You all are. Keep it up, and thanks again for the encouraging updates all.


Keep up the good work, Courtney!


courtney makes us all look bad! you're amazing!


Courtney you haz inspire!

Aw thanks guys. I feel all warm and fuzzy :)

But, just to prove that I'm only too human, I ate six pieces of fun-size candy yesterday. FUCK YOUUUUU halloween candy. I'm working from home today so I don't have to deal with my coworkers shoving chocolate in my face again. Screw you coworkers with candy. DO NOT WANT.

[chairmenmeow47]

that fun size candy is torture. i keep it at my desk for when people stop by. the girl across from me buys candy she doesn't like; i should do that lol. though i only had two pieces yesterday; that's an accomplishment!

and i took a half hour walk today since my boss is in another building. i am hoping to do yoga when i get home, but oh my god my allergies are acting horrendously today.

[Courtney]

Fun size candy is not fun.

Good job on the walk. I way over-trained my lower left abdominal area yesterday from a ton of burpees, so I'm trying to think of things I can do today that won't further cause injury. Definitely no core workout for me today.

[psychic friend]

i have been eating the fucking hell out of halloween candy for the last 48 hours. FML.

[Courtney]

Boooooooo candy. Put the candy down. Back away from the candy.

Next time you're at the gym, pop some of these into your routine and all will be forgiven:

QurW5ELc4oA

Except keep your back flat and engage your core. Holy fuck they are difficult.

[bmack86]

I gave up on working out or eating healthy or not drinking frequently in October. I told myself that I was going to get back to it on November, and I was very pleasantly surprised this morning when I weighed in and found out that, even with the horrid month I had, I only gained 3 pounds.

Back to the races, ladies and gentlemen!

[insbordnat]

I was supposed to go to the gym but ended up at Los Dos Molinos (mexican food). I feel like garbage.

And I popped a button off my fucking pants today. This blows, I'm going in reverse suddenly.

Must focus.

[Mr. Dylanja]

And I popped a button off my fucking pants today. This blows, I'm going in reverse suddenly.

I'm sorry, but this made my night :lool

[NachoCat]

Green apple and peanut butter. Best healthy snack ever.

[chairmenmeow47]

that does sound good. i need to get into celery or something else to have with salsa besides chips.

[locachica73]

Green apple and peanut butter. Best healthy snack ever.

So yummy. I recently grabbed the wrong peanut butter, the one I have has honey mixed in. It is so much better, but I am guessing higher in calories.

[chairmenmeow47]

i reaaaaaaaaaally like cashew butter. it's just that any sort of peanut butter is hard to bring to work. they are fridge nazi's in this building.

[ThatGirl]

I love Peanut butter and banana sandwiches on multigrain or whole wheat bread - good filling healthy lunch. :) Or you can toast the bread and have it for breakfast.

[locachica73]

i reaaaaaaaaaally like cashew butter. it's just that any sort of peanut butter is hard to bring to work. they are fridge nazi's in this building.

I never refridgerate my peanut butter, it makes it too hard to spread.


I love Peanut butter and banana sandwiches on multigrain or whole wheat bread - good filling healthy lunch. :) Or you can toast the bread and have it for breakfast.

This is the only way I can eat bananas.

[Courtney]

Yes, nut butters definitely don't need to be refrigerated if you're eating it within a reasonable amount of time and especially if you're in an air-conditioned building.

Personally I am a fan of almond butter. It's especially ace with apple slices, or spread on a whole wheat english muffin and topped with banana slices. But I'm trying to cut back on fruit right now at the request of my personal trainer, so none of that for me for a while.

[Mr. Dylanja]

Cucumbers + Frank's Red Hot FTW!

[Courtney]

Oh man, so I tried to run today, and it was a disaster beyond disaster. Apparently I realllllyyyyy need to work on that. I ended up doing 5 mins on/5 mins off for 40 minutes. Not very awesome.

[ThatGirl]

Oh man, so I tried to run today, and it was a disaster beyond disaster. Apparently I realllllyyyyy need to work on that. I ended up doing 5 mins on/5 mins off for 40 minutes. Not very awesome.

Courtney at least you are making an effort and doing something! Why don't you run your 5 mins and then speed down to walking for the 5 mins instead of getting off, and see if you can gradually build it up?

I have been disciplined this last week, no chips and dips and nighttime snacking which was totally sabotaging me, and took 2.5 lbs off, so I'm part way to my UK trip weight goal.

[Courtney]

Courtney at least you are making an effort and doing something! Why don't you run your 5 mins and then speed down to walking for the 5 mins instead of getting off, and see if you can gradually build it up?

I have been disciplined this last week, no chips and dips and nighttime snacking which was totally sabotaging me, and took 2.5 lbs off, so I'm part way to my UK trip weight goal.

Oh! Yes, that is what I meant by "5 mins on/5 mins off" -- alternating running and quick walking. Sorry I wasn't clear. I will try to gradually reduce the amount of time walking.

Great job on your progress! Woohoo UK trip here you come!

[chiapet]

The interval training that Tommy talked about so long ago is basically that principle... that worked far better for me than just running full effort. I didn't feel so exhausted and I lost more weight doing it that way. :)

[bmack86]

So I guess any weight I gained was from drinking beer and holding in water weight. Either that or being sick has helped me lose everything from the past month, because I'm back down to my pre-badness weight. That was a LOT quicker than I expected.

[ThatGirl]

So I guess any weight I gained was from drinking beer and holding in water weight. Either that or being sick has helped me lose everything from the past month, because I'm back down to my pre-badness weight. That was a LOT quicker than I expected.

I find I retain water like mad when I eat really salty snacks too - so cutting them out does make a difference.

[summerkid]

Back to doing Yoga once a day, I've missed it. Trying to tone my body up a bit.

[summerkid]

Oh! Yes, that is what I meant by "5 mins on/5 mins off" -- alternating running and quick walking. Sorry I wasn't clear. I will try to gradually reduce the amount of time walking.

Great job on your progress! Woohoo UK trip here you come!

That's actually a good way to burn calories.

[Courtney]

It's definitely better for burning calories than sitting on my butt :) But I do miss being able to run straight for 4 or 5 miles -- I found it very satisfying. I would like to work back up to that.

My personal trainer did an official check-in with me after our workout this morning, where she measured and weighed me to track progress. I've lost 4 lbs since I started working with her two weeks ago, so woohoo!

I also have officially strained my left hip flexor. I thought it was my lower abdomen, but apparently that area is actually the hip flexor. So no burpees and inchworms for me for a while. It may be from not having adequate support (my running shoes are a couple years old) so I am going to go out and get fitted for a new pair on Saturday.

[Courtney]

Did I just make a one-page printable version of this article on desk exercises (http://www.fitsugar.com/Desk-Exercises-Strengthen-Abs-Thighs-Buns-19114865) and then post it on the (not visible part of the) wall next to my desk? Yes, yes I did.

[chairmenmeow47]

4 pounds, way to go courtney! i had a let down tonight when i realized the trader ming's kung pao box has a serving suggestion as half the box. i'm still under my calorie goal today, but who eats half a box of this crap?

[insbordnat]

Karma is a bitch. All of this joking around about Courtney blowing chunks and I found myself having a near "reversal of fortune". I did a shitload of supersets of preacher curls/skullcrushers and I had to hold down my chow.

That would have sucked, right in the middle of 24 Hour Fitness.

[ThatGirl]

My chip and dip obsession is going to be the end of me. I had Tostito's whole grain chips last night with salsa and that yummy queso dip they make, plus I ate some dill pickle Quaker rice cake snacky things in the afternoon. I've taken in so much salt and am retaining so much water my face is puffy and i'm showing up two pounds. I know tomorrow this will go away but I feel wretched right now. However in the moment I'm weak and I can't stop myself. I literally need to never ever have this crap in the house. We have people over and this stuff gets let in the pantry but I just have to throw it out. I can't be exposed to it. Ugh. Thank god I'm going to Zumba tonight.

Courtney lend me some will power!!!

[Courtney]

Aw lady. Boooo on the Tostito's. But the good news is, salsa is pretty healthy. So you just need to find some alternative crunchy thing to put it on to satisfy your cravings. How about some sort of sliced veggie, like cucumbers or carrots or bell pepper? And a bit of salt on the veggies won't kill you either.

[Courtney]

In other news, I went ice skating last night as a gym alternative because I wanted to mix things up. It was AWESOME.

[faxman75]

I've been hiding from this thread. I'm back again. I will not quit. I know i'm packing the pounds back on and feeling awful in every way about it but I am restarting today. I need that feeling back. I'm detoxing for a couple of weeks as well. No booze or weed. I have to get strong and healthy. Living like crap totally destroys my physical and mental well being. I have the tools to get back and now I have to focus. My back was even starting to get uncomfortable on the walk to the gym. That's a wake up call in itself. No way I will go back to that. I deserve to feel awesome and I will be awesome. I am going to do the work and I will not stop fighting. There is nothing worse than feeling tired, depressed and just wanting to numb it all with booze and weed as often as possible and I do it quite often lately hence the detoxing. It was much more moderated in the spring but once I stopped exercising and eating right, I started napping and boozing much more.

My plan is 2 thirty minute workouts a day, no booze or weed, healthy food choices. I will win. I'm coming up on the one year anniversary of when this all started. I'm sure i'm still down 35-40 pounds from where I was last year and I still haven't smoked a cigarette since March so i'm healthier today and that's a big positive. No reason to dwell on the backwards motion of late. Everything else is good, school, travel and work are all aces. The dating life needs resuscitation but that will come with getting healthy.

[faxman75]

In other news, I went ice skating last night as a gym alternative because I wanted to mix things up. It was AWESOME.

Nice!

[chairmenmeow47]

good attitude, faxy :)

and sounds fun, courtney!!!

[ThatGirl]

Aw lady. Boooo on the Tostito's. But the good news is, salsa is pretty healthy. So you just need to find some alternative crunchy thing to put it on to satisfy your cravings. How about some sort of sliced veggie, like cucumbers or carrots or bell pepper? And a bit of salt on the veggies won't kill you either.

You are absolutely right Courtney... i'll have to create that alternative in order to keep on track. The veggies sounds like a great idea. And good on you for your exercise!!!

[chiapet]

It wouldn't work with dip, but baked kale chips really satisfy my cravings for crunchy snacks. I usually mix "curry" type spices on them, as well as enough sea salt to satisfy salty snack cravings.

I prefer crudites to chips for dipping... celery is so bland that it works with about everything. I like strips or wedges of bell peppers or slices of cucumber for guacamole dips. Broccoli florets are great for dips with creamier consistencies.

[Courtney]

My boss just brought me champagne and cupcakes. Talk about sabotage.

[phonographer]

Partying tonight for my birthday, so knocked out my workout early! Gonna watch my alcohol intake, I don't wanna get thrown off track and I drank way too much for Halloween.

Stay strong everyone!

[CuervoPH]

It wouldn't work with dip, but baked kale chips really satisfy my cravings for crunchy snacks. I usually mix "curry" type spices on them, as well as enough sea salt to satisfy salty snack cravings.



I am trying to calorie count, drop a few pounds before Coachella 2012, and basically live a healthier lifestyle. This sounds great for when I want a crunchy snack. I'm assuming you just bake the leaves with whatever seasonings you happen to like and then enjoy them. If so, I will definitely try this.

[chiapet]

Yup! You'll want to remove any hard stems first, and make sure you get as much water off as possible after you wash the kale. To make the "flavoring" stick, I first toss the kale with a tiny bit of olive oil in a large bowl, then toss in whatever seasoning I'm going to use. Spread them out on a tray, it works best if there is only a single layer. Then bake them at 350F until they're crispy. You have to keep an eye on them because they go from not done to burnt fairly quickly (should take less than 15 minutes). If you have parchment paper, you should line the tray with it before putting the chips on it - it soaks up the excess oil so they're not greasy.

There are a bunch of recipes on the internet, some at lower temperature with longer cooking times. A lot of people also make them in a food dehydrator. (I'm actually considering buying one solely to feed my kale chip addiction). There are lots of ideas out there for spice combinations, but I've liked curry best. I've read that some people have tried ranch (like a dry seasoning/dressing mix) and bbq spices which sound good too.

[CuervoPH]

Awesome! Thanks! I'll go kale shopping tomorrow.

[fatbastard]

I've walked 3-4 miles every night and have gotten in a fight with the wife as a result. I don't like being pushed.

[faxman75]

Perfect! Divorce the wife, exercise all the stress out while it's going on, then start the mid life crisis and find a hot younger broad with your new fit self!

Congrats ;)

[Courtney]

Why is your wife angry?

[ThatGirl]

I've walked 3-4 miles every night and have gotten in a fight with the wife as a result. I don't like being pushed.

Pushed how? Can you elaborate?

[fatbastard]

We leave with the intention of 30 minutes, then when I ask to start heading back, she tells me that we should just go to the signal, we get to the signal then she tells me the next signal. What starts out as a 30 minute walk turns into a 90 minute walk. I'm grateful after, but the pushing when I don't expect it really pisses me off. I have no problem pushing people myself, but I don't like being pushed. We're leaving now for a walk for a couple of hours in the rain. It will be half walk/half train trip.

[ThatGirl]

We leave with the intention of 30 minutes, then when I ask to start heading back, she tells me that we should just go to the signal, we get to the signal then she tells me the next signal. What starts out as a 30 minute walk turns into a 90 minute walk. I'm grateful after, but the pushing when I don't expect it really pisses me off. I have no problem pushing people myself, but I don't like being pushed. We're leaving now for a walk for a couple of hours in the rain. It will be half walk/half train trip.


My guy has done the same thing to me except with mountain climbing and hiking. He's told me we're going on a hike that is "somewhat challenging, no big deal" will take about 4 hours. We're going at a incline like this / for 2 hours. He's done this to me a couple of times, and although I feel rewarded and grateful in the end, in the moments during the climb I'm fantasizing about beating him to a bloody pulp with a baseball bat.

[Courtney]

Ha, my personal trainer does that to me, but that's why I pay her the big bucks. So I guess it's all perspective. Personally, I need some extra help to really push myself, but I know that if I push then I'll get in better shape more quickly, so I'm happy to have the help getting there. She is very fond of the counting down from 12 for reps, and then being like "oh just kidding we're actually doing a set of 24."

In other news, I GOT NEW RUNNING SNEAKERS. They are awesome. My personal trainer at the gym said I might have old shoes to blame for my hip flexor woes, so this was top priority for me this weekend. Look aren't they beautiful:

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6037/6320820056_41b0576045.jpg

ALSO, I have discovered crazy new awesomeness in the form of Justin's single-sized serving packets of almond and hazelnut butter. Obviously at 190 calories a piece these are not exactly great for folks who are trying to reduce their daily intake, but if you're doing something super extensive like the big 4 hour hike I did today, it was pretty genius to be able to pull one out of my backpack and slather it on a banana mid-mountain. And soooo delicious.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6031/6320843202_e3dbcaaa6b.jpg

[faxman75]

I need to get on the almond butter and nice shoes!! I've been looking at shoes, it's time. I've also been cleaning out my closet and getting things ready for goodwill again. Another fresh start.

Today was day 3 of working out twice a day about 30 minutes each. I'm doing a combination of hiking and elliptical. So far so good! I still need to work on eating right but the exercise is coming along nicely. It was just a few weeks ago where the hike was starting to be painful and take 30 minutes. I'm back down to about 22:30 so i'll be back to where I was in no time. The real challenge will be getting up and exercising before work tomorrow. I will do this. I will do this. I will do this!

[zimmy1222]

props to everyone in here... this thread is always bumped, good to see. :)

[Courtney]

http://www.urbangirlfitness.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/workoutpic.jpg

[ThatGirl]

Well I'm normally not this positive when making entries in this thread but I'm happy to say I took off 3.5 of the 5 pounds I'm looking to lose before the UK.

[amy2705]

I need to start this now....

[Mr. Dylanja]

So I woke up too late to get radiohead tickets, but early enough to get 20 sets in at the gym!


sunriseswag

[chairmenmeow47]

fitter, happier, more productive.

i took a break yesterday since i over-exerted myself this weekend. still in a lot of pain, so hoping to get back on the fitchella train tomorrow.

[faxman75]

Well I'm normally not this positive when making entries in this thread but I'm happy to say I took off 3.5 of the 5 pounds I'm looking to lose before the UK.

Awesome!

[yeahfontaine]

16 pounds down since September 1st!

Keeping a food journal, elliptical 30 minutes at least twice a week (really need to amp that up!), eating around 1200 cals a day, using SparkPeople as motivation. I love to go to that site each week and enter my new weight. Just the thought motivates me enormously during the week. The human brain is a strange instrument.

10 more pounds to go to get at the lowest weight I've ever been in my adult life. I should shoot below that, probably, but that seems to be the point at which my body absolutely refuses to budge.

Do you guys have a "body goes on strike" number like that? Have you ever pushed below that? Did it stick? I'm trying to decide if it's worth it to set a new goal after I reach that point or if I should just be happy to be at that low point and maintain it.

[Newro7ic]

16 pounds down since September 1st!

Keeping a food journal, elliptical 30 minutes at least twice a week (really need to amp that up!), eating around 1200 cals a day, using SparkPeople as motivation. I love to go to that site each week and enter my new weight. Just the thought motivates me enormously during the week. The human brain is a strange instrument.

10 more pounds to go to get at the lowest weight I've ever been in my adult life. I should shoot below that, probably, but that seems to be the point at which my body absolutely refuses to budge.

Do you guys have a "body goes on strike" number like that? Have you ever pushed below that? Did it stick? I'm trying to decide if it's worth it to set a new goal after I reach that point or if I should just be happy to be at that low point and maintain it.

Good job, keep it up.

As far as goals, don't limit yourself because you think your body is stubborn. If you want to go lower, then go lower. Push harder. Once you get there, find out the number of calories it will take to maintain that weight, and then add x amount based on how many calories you burn with exercise daily.

Anything is possible, as long as it's within a healthy range. If you are trying to be rail thin by starving yourself, though, then I would suggest against it.

[psychic friend]

Do you guys have a "body goes on strike" number like that? Have you ever pushed below that? Did it stick?

mine is always on strike. i have to work consistently to maintain any sort of loss.

[ThatGirl]

mine is always on strike. i have to work consistently to maintain any sort of loss.

130 lbs is my happy place. If I try to get down to 125 it seems like I need to work twice as hard and be completely unrelenting in my efforts to stay there. At 130 I can give myself cheats and still drink wine and be somewhat flexible but if I try for much lower than that, it does pretty much go on strike and put the brakes on.

[bucketofpower]

as a warm-up for the impending tough mudder in january, i'm considering this:

www.man-test.com

bitches be trippin if they think they can get my man card.

cheers to everyone who's working hard!

[chiapet]

I've sort of abandoned fitchella.

7GXtFvMJ91o


I'm trying to tell myself that homemade ice cream is totally healthy.

[amyzzz]

I need to buy some bigger pants to accommodate my belly.

[Mr. Dylanja]

Maybe you should move to Belizzze.

[fatbastard]

I haven't walked in 2 days. We're leaving in an hour.

[faxman75]

I missed yesterday but I got today in. 2.3 miles on the elliptical level 8 for 30 minutes.

[frizzlefry]

I need new running shoes! Does anyone know a good website or San Diego based shop to get Asics shoes for cheap?

[ThatGirl]

I haven't walked in 2 days. We're leaving in an hour.

Did you get pushed or did you push back? :)

[yardbird]

I need new running shoes! Does anyone know a good website or San Diego based shop to get Asics shoes for cheap?

I recommend going to RoadRunner Sports.
http://www.roadrunnersports.com/
They have a store in San Diego and Carlsbad.

They will analyze your feet and running style and recommend shoes based on your weight, arch, Foot pressure pressure points and running style ( over/Under pronation). also, it's free!

Prices aren't bad but not great.

[ThatGirl]

Asics are the only runners I wear. They have the best arch support and good width.

[Courtney]

Remind me to read this later when I'm not stuck in bumper to bumper traffic because Hu Jin Tao decided to take a motorcade across the island.

Mark Bittman on brown rice:
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/13/magazine/brown-rice-is-not-just-for-hippies.html?_r=1&smid=tw-nytimesdining&seid=auto

[TomAz]

I recommend going to RoadRunner Sports.
http://www.roadrunnersports.com/
They have a store in San Diego and Carlsbad.

They will analyze your feet and running style and recommend shoes based on your weight, arch, Foot pressure pressure points and running style ( over/Under pronation). also, it's free!

Prices aren't bad but not great.

I endorse Roadrunner as well for the reasons given.

right now I'm in a couple different pairs of Brooks, the Ghost 4 and the Glycerin 9. The Ghosts are ultra lightweight and the Glycerins offer a little extra support. I like them both. I've been in Nikes and Asics previously but it's been nothing but Brooks for a while now, they just work very well for me.

[faxman75]

I just got back from a hike. It felt great. I listened to a bootleg of Portishead at Berkeley. Normally I wouldn't listen to Portishead while exercising but this worked rather well.

[faxman75]

I just jogged a mile so I got in two workouts today. It's funny, I thought I did it pretty fast but it was 15 minutes ha ha.

[psychic friend]

GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL

i'd like to thank 24 hour fitness, the elliptical machine, people understanding me turning down dinners for the last few months and everyone's enthusiasm in this thread.

[insbordnat]

Congrats PF. You're an inspiration to us all.

[amyzzz]

Way to go, Dani!

[psychic friend]

if someone finds my boobs, i would like those back please. without all the other extra baggage. le sigh

[yeahfontaine]

Yay, PF! Fantastic work.

Yeah, sucks about the boobies. Why do they always have to be casualties of getting healthier? Dammit.

[faxman75]

It's been great watching you set and achieve your goal, PF! Congratulations!!

Me, Ivy and several of her friends went on a long hike yesterday.

http://superstitionmtnhikes.com/Hikes/Siphon-Draw/index.html


Make sure you will be able to get down any section that you climb. Rock walls and scree (loose slippery rocks on a slope) can be a lot easier to get up than get down. While climbing 2600 feet is hard on the lungs, getting back down is hard on the muscles and joints.


This is one of the most difficult and dangerous routes in the Superstitions. Hopefully these photos will scare off hikers who shouldn't make the trip.


I'm very sore today and it was the most strenuous hike i've done in my adult life.

Here is a view from about quarter mile into the hike, so very early on. I couldn't wrap my head around how we would get all the way up there.

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/306467_10150375795626284_666671283_8604448_4884156 62_n.jpg

A couple of hours later we learned how it would be possible.

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/374172_316847971663524_100000149721397_1504815_169 5547355_n.jpg

The surface of the top of the mountain. The "flat iron".

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/377738_10150375794801284_666671283_8604434_2120592 351_n.jpg

The view down from above.

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/310368_10150375798731284_666671283_8604490_5477208 8_n.jpg

On the way up I got stabbed by an agave. One little needle prick and blood flowed for a minute. I was rather unprepared for the hike but others helped me out so big thinks to Ivy, her friends and some other random trail strangers. On the way down I was dehydrated and both of my legs cramped up at different points and I had to stop for a few minutes. More than 5 miles round trip and 2600 feet in elevation to the top. It was a great hike.

[psychic friend]

wow that looks fantastic. congrats on making it!

[chiapet]

Mark, that looks amazing! That looks pretty challenging... is it blowing your mind that even a year away, there is no way you could have done that hike? You've made so much progress and have been a great inspiration on this thread.

Fitchella starts for me again tomorrow (I was going to delay because I'm going to have a horribly decadent Thanksgiving, but screw it).

[ThatGirl]

Awesome work everyone! Dani great news on your goal! My whole weekend was over indulgent, time for some cleansing intake this week. :)

[chairmenmeow47]

AT THE TOP!

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/374576_319145094767082_100000147838180_1516265_793 718782_n.jpg

[TheScenestar]

GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL

i'd like to thank 24 hour fitness, the elliptical machine, people understanding me turning down dinners for the last few months and everyone's enthusiasm in this thread.

So awesome Dani! You forgot to thank random "hikes", Popchips, and the company who makes your protein drinks. lol. Either way, CONGRATS!

[TheScenestar]

Update! I'm at 19 pounds lost and hunting for more. Thanksgiving is going to be tough, depending if my family will be in town so worst case scenario, 3 dinners to eat. One of them is at the house of my ex-trainer if everyone else is out of town, this will be my only dinner so that one shouldn't be so bad.

I also found out that there's a "free" gym outside of a hiking trail (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/7DcE8tDcjP7WF22aAy9WWQ?select=UTRvieHDABhFFaTCsQlQ QQ) in my neighborhood. It's not state of the art, but good to know I can mix both hiking and working on machines. I'm also going on a lot more hikes so I'm not always in the gym. I did a 5 mile hike to Griffith Park Observatory on Sunday and doing one or two more this week on top of my almost daily Bally's visits. Also linked up with a vegan chef in Eagle Rock to see about taking my noms to the next level but cheese is something I won't quit easily. Went to their potluck brunch on Sunday and everything was REALLY good. That is all. Good luck everybody with your Fitchella goals!

[g1zzz]

I'm finally seeing some results! The numbers are going down and I've even improved my time on my mile by 4 minutes since I started a few weeks ago.

SEXY BY SPRING.

[insbordnat]

Mark, that looks amazing! That looks pretty challenging... is it blowing your mind that even a year away, there is no way you could have done that hike? You've made so much progress and have been a great inspiration on this thread.

Fitchella starts for me again tomorrow (I was going to delay because I'm going to have a horribly decadent Thanksgiving, but screw it).

Faxman, Siphon Draw is no joke. Congrats on doing it. Even the more experienced hikers I know give kudos to anyone doing that hike.

I don't know if I feel inspired or like a chicken wing eating sloth. Oh corporate events how I hate you so.

[Courtney]

You guys are doing SO GOOD!

Dani -- you are an animal. And an inspiration. And other cliche but awesome things. Seriously impressive.

Mark and Ivy -- that hike looks way hard! Well done.

Oscar -- congrats on your 19!

[Courtney]

On my end, I completely regressed into very very bad this this past weekend. Like salted caramel donuts. And homemade blueberry ice cream. And affogato. And cheese plates. And scones. I could probably go on.

So I'm back on the horse as of today. I went to the gym this morning at 7am and my personal trainer kicked my ass. It was much needed. She had my arms and legs quivering even when I wasn't using them. Now I just need to keep it up and work hard on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. I am seeing her again on Monday. I should probably create a plan so that I feel an obligation to stick to it. That is what generally works best for me.

[EastLos01]

GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL


Congrats, I know you worked really hard to reach it... Thanks for the inspiration.


It's been great watching you set and achieve your goal, PF! Congratulations!!

Me, Ivy and several of her friends went on a long hike yesterday.



Thos Pics are amazing, and way to stick to it, sounds like it was killer


Update! I'm at 19 pounds lost and hunting for more.

That is great, keep up the hard work.




I'm finally seeing some results! The numbers are going down and I've even improved my time on my mile by 4 minutes since I started a few weeks ago.


Holy Shit, 4 minutes? God I feel like a slacker. I need to get out of my walking mode and into jogging again.

It's time once again to buy smaller pants cuz the ones I got about a month ago are starting to fit too big now. Pretty soon I'll be back in 30's. Dancing twice a week has really helped me out. keep up the great work all...

[chiapet]

On my end, I completely regressed into very very bad this this past weekend. Like salted caramel donuts. And homemade blueberry ice cream. And affogato. And cheese plates. And scones. I could probably go on.

Er... That all sounds like a typical weekend to me. Probably why I haven't lost any weight since April. :)

[Premium Roast]

it's hard to stay away from food in the holidays and cold weather. Mashed potatoes with gravy, buttered biscuits, desserts. As long as you stay active, I guess, or wait till January to work it off like most people do ("It's a new year, it's a new me!").

[ThatGirl]

The weekends always do me in too - glasses of red wine, buffalo chicken wraps (my pub food weakness). There is a hockey game on tonight and I must confess, I'll be in pub indulging in both those things. But i'm doing Zumba beforehand, and more Zumba in the morning, so I'm somehow able to rationalize my behavior.

[Courtney]

ThatGirl, I agree. Pub food is the devil. But yay zumba! I keep on wanting to try a class at my gym, but I haven't yet.

[Courtney]

Also, I have lost 12 lbs since late September. Hurrah!

[ThatGirl]

GOOD for you Courtney! And I hope you do try Zumba at some point and let me know what you think! I go 5 days a week now, I love it a lot. It's the one workout I enjoy and never get sick of, and always look forward to going to.

[Courtney]

Bumpity bump. How is everyone doing this holiday weekend?

I rocked out the cooking on Thursday with healthy alternatives like roasted sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, mashed cauliflower, and fig-sweetened cranberry compote. And I think I actually lost a pound or two overall this week. Pretty happy about that. Now I just need to get my butt back in the gym!

[zircona1]

I'm getting used to jogging in the cold. It was 39 this morning when I ran.

[Courtney]

Dang that is cold! What do you wear?

[g1zzz]

I could've sworn I was gonna gain the weight I lost because of how much I ate but I somehow lost a pound. I'm not complaining one bit.

[zircona1]

Dang that is cold! What do you wear?

Long sleeve T, sweat pants, hat and running gloves (though I took off the gloves because my hands got sweaty).

I'm asking for jogging pants for Christmas.

[EastLos01]

Only had one serving on thanksgiving, and skipped the pumpkin pie. Other days werent as good. Hooters on Sat for both the ND Stanford and USC UCLA game were killer. Back to Walk/ jogging tonight. Over all not too bad.

[insbordnat]

Bumpity bump. How is everyone doing this holiday weekend?

Terrible. It was a tough weekend to stay focused, especially with no access to the gym. I had a couple of solid 3+ mile walks with decent inclines, but my eating surpassed the calorie burn.

At least today's another day.

[yardbird]

Does anyone workout at a MMA/Boxing gym?

I'm thinking about joining but i'm a little intimidated by boot camp mentality.

[nyarlathotoats]

Today is when I "officially" go to the fitness center to get my fat ass to workout again, and I'm still dreading it.

[Courtney]

Terrible. It was a tough weekend to stay focused, especially with no access to the gym. I had a couple of solid 3+ mile walks with decent inclines, but my eating surpassed the calorie burn.

At least today's another day.

Aw, sorry to hear that. But yes, it's a new week!

I find not having access to the gym is a common excuse, and one I definitely have been known to employ in the past, but it's not really valid if you think about it. There's always something to do, even if it's just jogging and push ups and sit ups!