CoG Weight Loss Club

[Xerxes]

No he will say
"Congrats on the two blowjobs you got this week.

Greatest motivational speaker ever.

[Xerxes]

I was going to ask Karak about how do you work your back (To help the gut.) After two days of working out that focuses on my legs, I now know. My back almost seized up on my during my first lap out on the track. I was about to quit, but something told me to push it and it relaxed as I began my second mile. This was after a hour of cardio.

[Karak]

I was going to ask Karak about how do you work your back (To help the gut.) After two days of working out that focuses on my legs, I now know. My back almost seized up on my during my first lap out on the track. I was about to quit, but something told me to push it and it relaxed as I began my second mile. This was after a hour of cardio.

Yes and remember this. If your calves are stretched out, bad back. Bad gut, bad back, tight shoulders bad back, tight neck bad back. Running and cardio work. If you are heavier one of the best thing to do is simply stand with your hands on your hips and bend forward at your waist until your shoulders are a bit higher than your waist and then come up again. Its no impact and uses your own body weight.

[Xerxes]

What do you mean bad back? I have could have a bad back, or it's bad for my back.

[Karak]

What do you mean bad back? I have could have a bad back, or it's bad for my back.

Sorry.
I had to reread again.
I meant those things cause a bad/weak back

[Siraris]

I'm definitely noticing a difference, but dieting is so hard, and I feel guilty at the thought of eating anything remotely unhealthy. Someone gave me a Ghiradelli square today, and it's just sitting here taunting me.

[Xerxes]

I'm definitely noticing a difference, but dieting is so hard, and I feel guilty at the thought of eating anything remotely unhealthy. Someone gave me a Ghiradelli square today, and it's just sitting here taunting me.

I'd say eat it. I think the big thing is to say, "I'll eat this one square, but I won't kill a whole bag of them." You can OD on healthy food just the same.
If you are going to do something...
http://members.arstechnica.com/x/frennzy/tony_sinclair2.jpg
...always in moderation.

If it's a McDonalds cheeseburger though, you should feel guilty. :p

I actually find that after avoiding fast food a long period of time, I grow to despise the small and the first time back is normally sickening. But like drugs, you'll be back using in no time. I've been off it for a month now, and the thought of nuggets make me a little quesy.

Sorry.
I had to reread again.
I meant those things cause a bad/weak back

Yeah. Legs and back seem to provide the best workout for me lately as well. My legs seem to be holding up with all the additional stress as of late. I haven't played basketball in years. My lungs give before my legs. But I was able to make it through a extra game last week so I figure it should be getting better. Stay focused, I might make a runner out of me yet.

[Inspector Fowler]

The key is self honesty (re: the square of chocolate).

The self-lie is when people tell themselves they will just have one but they really mean, "When nobody's watching I'm gonna eat 10 more." If you're overweight, you've probably told yourself something similar.

The secret is to be honest. "Chocolate isn't part of my diet but I am choosing to eat one square and I'm choosing not to feel guilty about it because this is my only treat for the whole day."

This has been the bulk of my overweight life - thoughts like:

"I will start my diet at the beginning of the week" (like your body knows)
"I already had that soda, I might as well just pig out." (sure, there isn't a difference between eating 200 calories and 2000)
"I worked out so I earned this." (the point of working out isn't really to earn some kind of "credit" with your body - it's to make your body healthy)

When I change those around and then enforce them to make sure they're the truth, I have a lot of success. When I let myself say those sentences, I stall out in my weight loss.

[Loki]

I'm finally down to my target weight and wanting to build some lean muscle mass now. Any tips on how to accomplish this without gaining weight? (also, no protein/whey shakes either)

[Karak]

I'm finally down to my target weight and wanting to build some lean muscle mass now. Any tips on how to accomplish this without gaining weight? (also, no protein/whey shakes either)

I am not sure I understand. Your wanting a 1 for 1 exercise? 1 pound of fat to go away as you gain a pound of muscle? The body doesn't work that perfect. You can expect fluctuation of up to 10 pounds depending on how much you work out, how much you intake during the workouts, what kind of workouts, and your supplementals during workout.

To try to attain what you are thinking is just to minute for it to be successful (probably). I would just except that you will be fluctuating. Keep your diet somewhat like it is and try to workout on it. See how you feel in a month. If you see no changes, give yourself 200 more calories a day. Try that for a month. But if you are on a hardline (a line where your body seems to like to be) then you could upset that buy going to hard with not enough calories. Your body will begin to breakdown quicker during rest times. And even 2 hours of working out can be undone by 22 hours of your day where your motabilsmn slows in a defense mechanism.

[Xerxes]

So I went to work out today. Monday is the day I go out with my friend. Helps start the week off right. And he's willing to push me a little bit. Played a couple of games of hoops. Walked a lap. Then we tried a walk/run lap. Walk a couple of light post, run a couple. I probably really shouldn't be running but in the spirit of pushing it, I did.

I'm so pooped. Felt like I beat whatever I had left for the rest of the day out of me. Still feel pretty good about the work out though. Tuesday is my rest day before I finish out the week with some cardio and walking.

[Krispy]

Is there any place I can find information about setting up a home work out routine? My Google Fu seriously failed me only getting strange bits and pieces that didn't seem to make sense when put together. A gym most likely isn't in the cards in the immediate future but I really need to start giving my muscles some love or I'll waste away. I'm sitting at a breezy 125 lbs right now and that's with me eating three meals a day...

[Siraris]

Is there any place I can find information about setting up a home work out routine? My Google Fu seriously failed me only getting strange bits and pieces that didn't seem to make sense when put together. A gym most likely isn't in the cards in the immediate future but I really need to start giving my muscles some love or I'll waste away. I'm sitting at a breezy 125 lbs right now and that's with me eating three meals a day...

http://www.bodybuilding.com

[Krispy]

Information overload!

[Siraris]

http://www.google.com/search?q=p90x&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a

[Karak]

Information overload!

:)

There are a ton of good sites out there for different types of exercise. Your looking to build muscle?

There are plenty of less...commercial websites out there as well as plenty of forums and such. What physical exercise do you like? Sometimes it is easier to know a bit about someone before offering advice. What exact results are you looking for?

[carnage11]

Randy Couture Workout (http://buildingbodies.ca/randy-couture-workout-for-mma-conditioning/)

There's also links to other great workouts on that page.

or


Intense MMA Weekly Workout (http://www.articlesbase.com/martial-arts-articles/intense-mma-workout-routine-survive-the-cage-1238864.html)

or

You can try P90X. Might be a little expensive, there are ways to find it for free, if you're into that. If you read this thread you'll see that P90X is a great workout that works and you need little to no equipment.

[Krispy]

I'm not looking to bulk up as much as I'm looking to get into shape. In my case, I should gain weight no matter what I do -- which is good -- but I just want to be fit so that when I try to pick up sports again I'm not wasting everyone's time. Also, it makes me feel good in the morning to see a nice six pack and I want to get that back. :cool:

I'll be able to get into a gym in 2 months but right now there's no way. I'll probably map out a good running loop around where I'm living but running is all I know how to do and I know that isn't enough.

[Siraris]

Go run, do crunches, and buy Whey Protein. Don't eat a lot of fat.

[Karak]

I'm not looking to bulk up as much as I'm looking to get into shape. In my case, I should gain weight no matter what I do -- which is good -- but I just want to be fit so that when I try to pick up sports again I'm not wasting everyone's time. Also, it makes me feel good in the morning to see a nice six pack and I want to get that back. :cool:

I'll be able to get into a gym in 2 months but right now there's no way. I'll probably map out a good running loop around where I'm living but running is all I know how to do and I know that isn't enough.

P90x is good for getting you in shape with very little bulk build up. The nice thing about it other than general work outs is its detail.

[Inspector Fowler]

I still think very highly of P90X. It's pretty much the "get in shape for a ton of different things" workout plan. It's not the "I have one sport I need to be ready for" workout. It will build great muscle without building too much bulk (there is some variation possible in the workouts), and if you follow it closely you'll burn a ton of fat and stay lean (except you were lean to start with).

I just got a running app for my Android, I love it. It's great being able to actually track (on Google Maps, no less) my workouts. It it accurate enough to show when I go around a roundabout, which tells me it's plenty accurate.

[Xerxes]

I thought P90X was mainly about maximum toning? I have in my mind to try it when I shed a good chunk of weight.

[Siraris]

Just an update: I've lost about 13 lbs in 2 months - 185 - 172. I'm noticing a difference appearance-wise. Still got a bit to go.

[Generation ABXY]

Ah, well, congrats to you, Siraris. Best of luck the rest of the way, too.

[carnage11]

I thought P90X was mainly about maximum toning? I have in my mind to try it when I shed a good chunk of weight.

You get what you want out of it. In each video he tells you, if you want lean/tone muscles do more reps of lighter weight. ie. 20-25 reps of 40 lbs. If you want big muscles/mass do less reps of more weight. ie. 8-10 reps of 60+ lbs.

It also has a lot to do with your diet. If you're looking to bulk up, then foods high in protein are best, but if you want to slim up and be a little tighter, then a different diet is necessary.

I'm looking to bulk up, so I eat lots of protein and take creatine, when I work out I go for more weight with less reps. Doing p90x for the last several months, I've seen large gains in muscle. I don't have a tape measure handy so I don't know exact figures, but I know my arms and chest are quite a bit bigger now and I'm also much tighter. I used to have some flab on my waist and triceps area, now the flab is gone and people tell me I look like I've lost weight. I've actually lost 2 notches on my belt.

[Xerxes]

Any suggestions to this issue. Every time I do a core focused routine, my gut paralyzes me. I normally don't do them, and I've been trying like Karak says to just focus on getting my back stronger, but I keep wanting to at least get started on my core.

Example: If I did say 2 sets of 10 crunches, it gets a little tough to sit back up. So a whole core routine kind leaves me laying there for a minute or so.

[Karak]

Any suggestions to this issue. Every time I do a core focused routine, my gut paralyzes me. I normally don't do them, and I've been trying like Karak says to just focus on getting my back stronger, but I keep wanting to at least get started on my core.

Example: If I did say 2 sets of 10 crunches, it gets a little tough to sit back up. So a whole core routine kind leaves me laying there for a minute or so.

Wait wait wait.
Wait. I wasn't saying to NOT work your stomach. I was simply stating many times that the back is neglected in many a work out and is also a connector to various other trunk moves and is far more important than many work outs reflect.

Simply add in the crunches as the end of the workout. Someone is isn't used to doing them will indeed feel destroyed at first. It takes a while to get the gut into shape. Just keep doing small sets until you feel you can add extra.

However, don't neglect the back.

[carnage11]

It's not all about crunches either. You'd be surprised at how much working your legs will help with your mid section. As a matter of fact, the Ab Ripper video on p90x focuses a lot on the quads.

I would run. If doing crunches is too painful, then run every day. Or swim. Doing laps in the pool is an excellent way to work the entire body. Crunches are minimalistic and really only work very specific muscles in the stomach. You need a strong core, and that includes upper legs, chest and back.

[Xerxes]

It's not all about crunches either. You'd be surprised at how much working your legs will help with your mid section. As a matter of fact, the Ab Ripper video on p90x focuses a lot on the quads.

I would run. If doing crunches is too painful, then run every day. Or swim. Doing laps in the pool is an excellent way to work the entire body. Crunches are minimalistic and really only work very specific muscles in the stomach. You need a strong core, and that includes upper legs, chest and back.

Working my legs normally makes me feel it in my back.

[Karak]

Working my legs normally makes me feel it in my back.

That is correct and what we spoke about many many posts before. Also I have to say I do not agree that crunches are not useful. All of those exercises are useful. All of them. But they all also fill their little part of your workout.

I think we are getting into minimaxing discussions. Long story short, you need some leg, back and stomach exercises to go with all the other stuff you are doing or need to do.

I for one would NOT ignore situps or crunches but I also wouldn't ignore back exercises. Even things like leg raises can work.

Xerxes you may indeed want to look into P90x or some kind of all body movement workout. That way you won't ignore a body part or overwork another.

[Siraris]

So I'm down to 170 from 185. That's a pretty big drop, and I'm proud of myself! Thing is, I feel like I'm kind of slipping in terms of diet, and I need to get back on track. I feel like I need to eliminate my cheat day. When I cheat (usually the weekend) I then have the penchant for continuing to slip slightly.

I'm also worried about hitting a wall. I've dropped the 15 lbs pretty fast, but I'm thinking it will slow down soon, and then what do I do?

[Karak]

So I'm down to 170 from 185. That's a pretty big drop, and I'm proud of myself! Thing is, I feel like I'm kind of slipping in terms of diet, and I need to get back on track. I feel like I need to eliminate my cheat day. When I cheat (usually the weekend) I then have the penchant for continuing to slip slightly.

I'm also worried about hitting a wall. I've dropped the 15 lbs pretty fast, but I'm thinking it will slow down soon, and then what do I do?
Personally I have always liked plateau's. I usually find that I stay at one for 1-3 months. Then the next time I gain my weight seems to stop at that plateau and not at the old weight I started at. 3 months is probably better to get the body more accustomed to a slightly lower weight for longer but I have had great luck with using a plateau to stop weight gain when I am not dieting or practicing.
Congrats on the loss.
I am currently just coming off a plateau myself. Hopefully if life makes it too difficult to be as stringent with my workouts and eating that may help me a bit.

[evilgoodwin]

The other day, I noticed that my favorite shirt didn't fit as good as it used to, which sucks because I love the shirt. It's insanely soft and breathes great, probably the only long sleeve shirt I have that won't kill me in the Texas heat if I didn't roll the sleeves up. I've cut out fast food from my diet almost 100% and switched to diet sodas (I know, I should drop them completely, but I love Dr Pepper too much). However, just a diet change doesn't make one lose weight if you don't get your ass off the couch, so I decided to start running at least a mile a day.

Today was my first day, and the block around my apartment is just barely over a mile. The first 1/3 is up a hill, the second 1/3 is flat, and the last 1/3 is downhill. Not a bad little hill, honestly. I hope to run around it at least one time a day. I'm taking it slow because I haven't been physically active since my sophomore year of highschool. And that was 10 years ago. :D

I haven't read through all of this thread yet, but I plan on it. I just wanted to post to keep myself motivated :D

[Nameless]

The other day, I noticed that my favorite shirt didn't fit as good as it used to, which sucks because I love the shirt. It's insanely soft and breathes great, probably the only long sleeve shirt I have that won't kill me in the Texas heat if I didn't roll the sleeves up. I've cut out fast food from my diet almost 100% and switched to diet sodas (I know, I should drop them completely, but I love Dr Pepper too much). However, just a diet change doesn't make one lose weight if you don't get your ass off the couch, so I decided to start running at least a mile a day.

Today was my first day, and the block around my apartment is just barely over a mile. The first 1/3 is up a hill, the second 1/3 is flat, and the last 1/3 is downhill. Not a bad little hill, honestly. I hope to run around it at least one time a day. I'm taking it slow because I haven't been physically active since my sophomore year of highschool. And that was 10 years ago. :D

I haven't read through all of this thread yet, but I plan on it. I just wanted to post to keep myself motivated :D

That's awesome, dude! Keep it up! I started running at the beginning of the summer and so far it has been an awesome experience. Unlike most other workout experiences, this is the first one where I actually look forward to go for a run, and sometimes have to stop myself so that I don't overdo it!

You'll be amazed at how fast your body adapts to running; I couldn't believe my progress after the first few runs. I've been losing weight fairly consistently and feeling significantly better as a result (though I'm still going to have to add in a strength training aspect once I have access to a gym again).

Anyway, the main rule I noticed is to take it easy. I was quite overweight when I started (260lbs.) and I'm still very overweight now (weighed in at 238lbs. this morning! :D), so I try to warm up and cool down properly as I want to avoid injuring my knees.

Basically, the way I organized my runs was by time at first. I told myself I'd do 30 minutes of cardio three times a week. So at first, I could only run for like a minute at a time. So I would jog for a minute, walk for two minutes, repeating over and over until I hit 30 minutes. I slowly started adding time to my running durations (2 minutes, then 4 minutes, then 5, then 8, then 10 were my milestones) and eventually I could run the whole 30 minutes straight. This usually amounted to about 5k or so (I know it's a slow 5k, but I'm a big guy! ;)). Now I go for distance and I'm trying to increase my time and distance as I go. I just moved up to 5.5k, 3 days a week, and I run that distance no matter how tired I am or how long it takes me (about 32 minutes on average, I think).

Above all else, though, remember to walk briskly for 5 minutes before you start to run, and walk for at least a couple of minutes after you stop, as a warm-up and cool-down, respectively.

Anyway, I hope this helps anyone who's interested in running around here!

[bapenguin]

The summer cookouts have taken their toll. I'm up about 10 pounds from my previous weight loss - so I'm gonna get back on the wagon today.

[pronounconnoun]

So I've lost about 50 pounds, thereabouts, since I've started. I got the iFitness app for my iPad which is cool since it helps you keep track of your workouts and daily routines and shows you different exercises. Right now I feel like I'm in the position to start toning since I lost a bulk of my weight. I have about 20 pounds more before I hit my desired weight, but I'm getting there.

I'll see if I can get a before and after picture posted soon.

[digitalErich]

So I'm down to 170 from 185. That's a pretty big drop, and I'm proud of myself! Thing is, I feel like I'm kind of slipping in terms of diet, and I need to get back on track. I feel like I need to eliminate my cheat day. When I cheat (usually the weekend) I then have the penchant for continuing to slip slightly.

I'm also worried about hitting a wall. I've dropped the 15 lbs pretty fast, but I'm thinking it will slow down soon, and then what do I do?
I haven't been following this thread, but I can give you two truths if you want to keep weight off and stay fit, i.e. not go up and down in some cycle...

1. Don't "diet." If you drastically change the way you eat, you won't/can't stick with it. Slowly change your eating habits (easier said, I know). Be conscious of the amount of protein you take in, when you go out for steak, get asparagus instead of potatoes. Force yourself to drink lots of water for 3+ weeks...soda, even diet, will not be something you crave after that. It becomes a treat that you can go days without. The idea here is to make small changes that you can live with for more than a set period of time. Cutting out X for Y days rarely works for any length of time.

2. Strength train (notice I don't say weights, necessarily). Running/cadio is great. It's good for you and you should do it. However, if you really want to keep weight off, strength train. Cardio one hour a day is great, but outside of a small metabolism boost, what's your body doing the other 23 hours of the day? This is where muscle comes in...muscle burns calories even when you're sitting on your ass playing Halo. The more muscle you have, the more that Halo workout is going to pay off.

Granted, a vigorous cardio schedule will built muscle, but not nearly as fast as strength training will, especially for guys.

[Nameless]

2. Strength train (notice I don't say weights, necessarily). Running/cadio is great. It's good for you and you should do it. However, if you really want to keep weight off, strength train. Cardio one hour a day is great, but outside of a small metabolism boost, what's your body doing the other 23 hours of the day? This is where muscle comes in...muscle burns calories even when you're sitting on your ass playing Halo. The more muscle you have, the more that Halo workout is going to pay off.

Granted, a vigorous cardio schedule will built muscle, but not nearly as fast as strength training will, especially for guys.

This is a good point. I was reading recently that for a slightly overweight man to burn off one pound of fat (3,500 calories) per week, he would would have to do two hours of moderate cardio (250 calories per hour) each and every day.

Building muscle increases the rate at which your body burns calories, so you can end up burning that pound of fat with only three 30 minute strength circuits and four 30 minute cardio exercises every week. So you can burn as much (or maybe even more) in less than half the time spent exercising.

This is why I'm hoping to get a good gym routine going once school starts up again.

On the subject of the gym, though, I have a question for you guys. When I get in there, I'm instantly intimidated by all the machines and weights and equipment lying all over the place; do you guys have any tips on where to start or good practices? Please note that I don't have the money to hire a personal trainer, sadly. :(

[pronounconnoun]

This is a good point. I was reading recently that for a slightly overweight man to burn off one pound of fat (3,500 calories) per week, he would would have to do two hours of moderate cardio (250 calories per hour) each and every day.

Building muscle increases the rate at which your body burns calories, so you can end up burning that pound of fat with only three 30 minute strength circuits and four 30 minute cardio exercises every week. So you can burn as much (or maybe even more) in less than half the time spent exercising.

This is why I'm hoping to get a good gym routine going once school starts up again.

On the subject of the gym, though, I have a question for you guys. When I get in there, I'm instantly intimidated by all the machines and weights and equipment lying all over the place; do you guys have any tips on where to start or good practices? Please note that I don't have the money to hire a personal trainer, sadly. :(

I started with the machines, like the upright press and butterfly machines. Not as much of a strain on your muscles as free weights. Gradually work your way up to free-weights, but start small and work your way up. Don't try and bench the max that you can, start at a lower number that you can do a few repetitions with. I went to bodybuilding.com, they have an exercise section that shows you the proper way to do a lot of exercises with bars and dumbbells.

For cardio, try the elliptical if you're not used to running to prep your legs for the strain.

[digitalErich]

I don't use gyms because for me, personally, I don't go for machines. Machines really,really focus on specific muscles and parts of muscles. Then again, I'm not looking to "bulk up" when I strength train. I'm looking to get stronger and more tone. Whatever mass comes out of that, good for me I guess. So I won't be of help other than to say what I do instead of gyms...

For the cost of a couple of months of gym membership, I grabbed a set of dumbbells, cheap push-up bars, a soft mat for core work, and one of those pull up bars you mount in a door frame. I rely almost soley on body resistance for chest, back, and core work, then I use the dumbbells for arms and shoulders (some back too). Currently, I don't work legs...I try to run 6 miles, 3x times a week, between strength days and my core workout does a little bit of quad work, just due to the motions I go through.

I also find that when I'm not using machines and doing more "natural" motions like push ups, pull ups, and free weight arm and shoulder motions, I don't lose as much flexibility as I gain muscle. I don't know why that bugs me, but it always has.


Edit: and I'll just echo what Joey said, if you are starting out, pick a weight you can do 15 reps with. Once you start to get the hang of things and get a little stronger, then start using weights where 8 reps is giving you a workout. As a general rule for myself, if I'm looking to build a muscle, heavier weight, 8-10 reps, but if I'm just looking to tone, lighter weight, 15 reps for that exercise.

[TheFlyingOrc]

On the subject of the gym, though, I have a question for you guys. When I get in there, I'm instantly intimidated by all the machines and weights and equipment lying all over the place; do you guys have any tips on where to start or good practices? Please note that I don't have the money to hire a personal trainer, sadly. :(

Let me tell you EXACTLY what my personal trainer had me do.

1. Warm up with 8-10 minutes on the eliptical machine.

2. A leg set: Leg press, leg extension, leg curl. Beware of terrible leg curl/extension machines at the gym, though.

3. 3 more minutes on the eliptical

4. Same leg set again

5. Arms and chest: Bench press (and he had me do it by putting the bench under the machine most people use for squats, I recommend this, balance is SO much easier) Bicep curls, shoulder flys (take 2 very light dumbells, raise them out to shoulder level), Seated row machine, Tricep extension.

6. Back on the eliptical for 3 minutes

7. NEARLY the same arms and chest routine, but swap out the seated row for a stiff-arm pulldown (basically the same as the tricep extension in terms of form, but you keep your arms straight)

8. Crunches, reverse crunches (raising your legs straight up from the floor while your back is straight), hip lifts.

Some days he would have me do calf raises or rotator cuff exercises, but those were rarities.

Now, we didn't ALWAYS do these same exercises (he would have me switch up pretty much everything for something different every 3 weeks or so to introduce some muscle confusion), but that was roughly it. It seemed to work quite well.

[civil]

Ugh. I've plateaued at the same weight for a couple of months now, and it's such a tiny amount that it's infuriating. My quick story:

Starting Weight: 250 (I'm 5'8")
Dropped To: 175
Went Back Up To: 197
Current: 153
Goal: 150

I don't know what it is about those final 3 pounds, but I'm determined to get to 150. My only exercise is biking between 60-80 miles/week, but I feel that's served me well so far. Anyway, just needed to vent. Congrats to everyone and their success stories, it's pretty awesome to read.

Joey, you should post photos you stud!

[CappinCanuck]

Ugh. I've plateaued at the same weight for a couple of months now, and it's such a tiny amount that it's infuriating. My quick story:

Starting Weight: 250 (I'm 5'8")
Dropped To: 175
Went Back Up To: 197
Current: 153
Goal: 150

I don't know what it is about those final 3 pounds, but I'm determined to get to 150. My only exercise is biking between 60-80 miles/week, but I feel that's served me well so far. Anyway, just needed to vent. Congrats to everyone and their success stories, it's pretty awesome to read.

Joey, you should post photos you stud!

That's pretty good Civil. You may never get to 150 unfortunately since it may not be a plateau. That could just be the right range for your body. Losing 3lbs of pure fat without gaining an ounce of muscle is tough since fat weighs so little. I was at 145 once, but been at 160 ever since. I can't get under 155 no matter what I do. I'm also more considerably muscular and toned than I ever was before though. It's just not possible anymore unless I want to lose muscle mass. I think you can safely declare mission accomplished after a 97lb weight loss.

If you're really hung up on it, don't eat or drink for a half a day, sweat it out somehow and do a twosie. That's an easy 3-4 lbs.

[civil]

I wish it was muscle that was keeping me at this weight. :(

And I would gladly go up in weight if it meant I was gaining muscle. I had a long talk with a fellow I know who did the P90 routine and he loves it, but it got him too ripped for his (and his girlfriend's) tastes. He nearly talked me into nearly trying it again. Toning is what I need right now, as I feel a flabby mess.

I appreciate the not eating/drinking thing, but that's not real. :p

[evilgoodwin]

I'm in that same boat, civl. I'm not technically overweight, but all of my weight is in a huge, pasty ball full of beer calories and pringles. Hopefully my walking will help me build more stamina to get rid of it.

Speaking of, I'm about to do my 4th consecutive run, ever! AND I'm hungover and still want to do it! I'm proud of myself :D

[Siraris]

civil - biking 60-80 miles a week is huge, so don't discount that.

Losing 3 lbs, is going to be next to impossible, though, when you're at a low weight. I dropped my 15-16 lbs in a month and a half, and now I feel like it hasn't budged. The thing is, I'm also building muscle, so that's great. You need to create a deficiency though, and just as important, you need to have your glycosene levels depleted when you do cardio in order to burn the fat from your body. If you go into a workout with a full glycosene store (which comes from eating carbs) then you will only burn that, and you will never burn the fat you have stored. A good thing to do is, lift, and then do some cardio. If you're not eating a ton of crap, and drinking, you should be in good shape. You also should look more at your appearance, than the weight. You could have 2 or 3 lbs of water weight easily so keep that in mind. If you have a flat tum tum, and you're still 153, who cares, right?

P90x is great, but I feel like many people use it as a crutch, and sometimes an excuse. They want to do P90x, but don't have it in their possession/can't afford it/don't have a pull up bar, so they just don't work out at all. Just go and do some lifting and some cardio, it will make a difference.

[pronounconnoun]

I wish it was muscle that was keeping me at this weight. :(

And I would gladly go up in weight if it meant I was gaining muscle. I had a long talk with a fellow I know who did the P90 routine and he loves it, but it got him too ripped for his (and his girlfriend's) tastes. He nearly talked me into nearly trying it again. Toning is what I need right now, as I feel a flabby mess.

I appreciate the not eating/drinking thing, but that's not real. :p

Do a lot of curls, dips, and push ups. Those should hit the primary regions in your upper body. For the midsection, I use a medicine ball for crunches, bicycle crunches, leg lifts, hip thrusts, reverse crunches, and russian twists. I feel like it's working. Sounds like you have the leg region covered.

Joey, you should post photos you stud!

I've been meaning to since I hit 230lbs. I'll get a new picture up by this weekend.


Pervert.

[civil]

I've been meaning to since I hit 230lbs. I'll get a new picture up by this weekend.


Pervert.
I just want to know if I'm going to have you taken out before my wedding. Ain't no one out-prettying me at my own shindig.

[Bone]

Ugh, the quitting smoking curse finally piled on. Back up to 196, had been keeping down as low as 186 on the divorce diet. It's been over 100 degrees this month so running/biking is just out of the question. But no excuses, I need to do pushups and pullups again.

[Siraris]

Pushups do wonders, in particular diamond pushups (make a diamond with your thumbs/index fingers, do 20 pushups, die). Also, doing situps on the workout ball is KEY. I started doing these recently, and my abs are 10x stronger than they used to be. I can do almost an unlimited amount of situps on the floor, but when i get on the ball, I can 3 sets of 25 or 30, and I'm wrecked.

[pronounconnoun]

I just want to know if I'm going to have you taken out before my wedding. Ain't no one out-prettying me at my own shindig.

Don't worry, I still look like some sort of fat animal. It's my height. If I were shorter, I could probably pass as "stocky." Since I'm about 6.2 I just look manatee like.

Ugh, the quitting smoking curse finally piled on. Back up to 196, had been keeping down as low as 186 on the divorce diet. It's been over 100 degrees this month so running/biking is just out of the question. But no excuses, I need to do pushups and pullups again.

Yeah, San Francisco has been pretty hot lately (95) and I haven't been going to the gym. Back to the normal summer weather, though (60) and I'll be going to the gym tonight.

Congrats on quitting. I stopped for a few months, but started again. I don't smoke on the days I have to run, though.

[Bone]

I've had a couple to be honest, but I'm not actively smoking a pack a day and I feel great. Slipstream bums me a cigarette or two every day now that he's visiting ;)

[pronounconnoun]

I've had a couple to be honest, but I'm not actively smoking a pack a day and I feel great. Slipstream bums me a cigarette or two every day now that he's visiting ;)

Yeah, I've always been a semi-casual smoker, as well. High fives on the bumming of Sliparettes. I bet you're also saving a ton of money.

[Bone]

I am! I made a deal with myself when I bought my new motorcycle. Not spending 5 bucks a day comes out to about 150 a month, and my bike payment is 148.50 a month.

[evilgoodwin]

Ugh, the quitting smoking curse finally piled on. Back up to 196, had been keeping down as low as 186 on the divorce diet. It's been over 100 degrees this month so running/biking is just out of the question. But no excuses, I need to do pushups and pullups again.

I don't get that hot when I run. Mainly because I'm wearing these thin cotton shorts and a hanes perfect tee. Feels like I'm wearing nothing at all.

[pronounconnoun]

I don't get that hot when I run. Mainly because I'm wearing these thin cotton shorts and a hanes perfect tee. Feels like I'm wearing nothing at all.

http://i384.photobucket.com/albums/oo289/pronounconnoun/stupid_sexy_flanders.jpg

[TheFlyingOrc]

Pushups do wonders, in particular diamond pushups (make a diamond with your thumbs/index fingers, do 20 pushups, die). Also, doing situps on the workout ball is KEY. I started doing these recently, and my abs are 10x stronger than they used to be. I can do almost an unlimited amount of situps on the floor, but when i get on the ball, I can 3 sets of 25 or 30, and I'm wrecked.

I was getting pretty sick of crunches (oh, how fun, I now have to do over 100 before I feel ANYTHING!!!) But now, at the gym, I use this machine where you lie at a slightly upward angle on your back, and grip two handles just above your shoulder which are connected to the standard pulley/weights. It is really great to finally feel something again when I do ab exercises!

[Bone]

I don't get that hot when I run. Mainly because I'm wearing these thin cotton shorts and a hanes perfect tee. Feels like I'm wearing nothing at all.Stupid sexy Goodwin! I have a little hyperhydrosis condition- I sweat heavily in situations where others aren't sweating at all. So that kind of heat just destroys me and the sweat actually becomes completely distracting.

[Siraris]

I was getting pretty sick of crunches (oh, how fun, I now have to do over 100 before I feel ANYTHING!!!) But now, at the gym, I use this machine where you lie at a slightly upward angle on your back, and grip two handles just above your shoulder which are connected to the standard pulley/weights. It is really great to finally feel something again when I do ab exercises!

Another great one if your gym has it, is to lay flat and do reverse crunches. Those are brutal.

[civil]

Stupid sexy Goodwin! I have a little hyperhydrosis condition- I sweat heavily in situations where others aren't sweating at all.
http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q135/tlots/CoG/Bo-2.jpg

[Bone]

Civil, you are a like a meme factory that uses child labor and fine-ground kittens.

[Karak]

Pushups do wonders, in particular diamond pushups (make a diamond with your thumbs/index fingers, do 20 pushups, die). Also, doing situps on the workout ball is KEY. I started doing these recently, and my abs are 10x stronger than they used to be. I can do almost an unlimited amount of situps on the floor, but when i get on the ball, I can 3 sets of 25 or 30, and I'm wrecked.

These are ok. But the injury rate is so fucking high. I do them but the outward angle weight increase is asking for a injury if you do not know what you are doing. We totally banned them from out martial arts workout due to the injury increase. They are good but have a very real health hazard. And for god sakes don't do more than a couple while starting.

[Karak]

Ugh, the quitting smoking curse finally piled on. Back up to 196, had been keeping down as low as 186 on the divorce diet. It's been over 100 degrees this month so running/biking is just out of the question. But no excuses, I need to do pushups and pullups again.

Do you just not like heat? 100 is hot, don't get me wrong, but a bike and a good deal of water is fine. I wouldn't be an ironman in that but it is doable. Or go later in the evening.

[Bone]

Do you just not like heat? 100 is hot, don't get me wrong, but a bike and a good deal of water is fine. I wouldn't be an ironman in that but it is doable. Or go later in the evening.Check my later post. I sweat to the point of distraction, like even with a headband, I can't see through the sweat. This month has been so hot and humid it's just asking for trouble.

[Siraris]

These are ok. But the injury rate is so fucking high. I do them but the outward angle weight increase is asking for a injury if you do not know what you are doing. We totally banned them from out martial arts workout due to the injury increase. They are good but have a very real health hazard. And for god sakes don't do more than a couple while starting.

What are you referring to?

[Karak]

This is a good point. I was reading recently that for a slightly overweight man to burn off one pound of fat (3,500 calories) per week, he would would have to do two hours of moderate cardio (250 calories per hour) each and every day.

Building muscle increases the rate at which your body burns calories, so you can end up burning that pound of fat with only three 30 minute strength circuits and four 30 minute cardio exercises every week. So you can burn as much (or maybe even more) in less than half the time spent exercising.

This is why I'm hoping to get a good gym routine going once school starts up again.

On the subject of the gym, though, I have a question for you guys. When I get in there, I'm instantly intimidated by all the machines and weights and equipment lying all over the place; do you guys have any tips on where to start or good practices? Please note that I don't have the money to hire a personal trainer, sadly. :(
Basic repetitive exercises at first to learn form and prepare all kinds of basic systems in your body for the work to come. We stress 1 month of basic working out before leaping into anything heavy if you are over 30. If its a good gym ask for help. If you meet up with a couple nice people ask around.
We can describe things here but its never going to be the same thing as seeing it first hand. Ask around. There is usually 3 kinds of people in a gym.

1 The know it all. They do know it all. But what they do works for them, so they assume it will work for you. That is of course wrong.
2 The Big man. The red neck who thinks weight equals right. They put up the most weight and they are proud of it. Also knows as the Peacock. Easy to identify by trucker tan lines. Lift with them if you want a giant upper body and bird legs:)
3 The general gym body. Someone doing a mix of many things. Many times they are not the most talkative. But if you strike up a conversation they may show you a lift, or an alternate lift. If you ask them a couple questions you can then check out the data later and see if it fits with what you want.

You don't need a trainer but they do help for the first 1/2 lifts. Many many gyms offer these for free now as a part of membership. Our local gym has either certified sports medicine professionals or those in their 2nd year of it and at least know the basics.

[Karak]

Check my later post. I sweat to the point of distraction, like even with a headband, I can't see through the sweat. This month has been so hot and humid it's just asking for trouble.

Oh gotcha. Man that sucks dude. I hear you though. One of my students is like a wet rag all day every day. He is so hot all the time that during winter months the car FIGHTS to stay defrosted when he is sitting inside. He always has a fine sheen of sweat on him.

[TheFlyingOrc]

1 The know it all. They do know it all. But what they do works for them, so they assume it will work for you. That is of course wrong.

I'm a bit of this with my friends at the gym - but that's because you really should go with somebody who is doing a full body thing initially and then build on it to suit your needs once you know what your needs are.

I had a friend who would go with me who was incredibly frustrating - "In high school, I would do all arms one day, and all legs the next". Fantastic, but we are only going to the gym twice a week and you are not going to work hard enough either time.

I love my current workout, but I thought my personal trainer was crazy initially for not making me do all the things I liked to do. Now I get it and I'm way better off for it.

[civil]

Civil, you are a like a meme factory that uses child labor and fine-ground kittens.
I am Mex, yes? One sound words please.

[Vandabo]

Oh gotcha. Man that sucks dude. I hear you though. One of my students is like a wet rag all day every day. He is so hot all the time that during winter months the car FIGHTS to stay defrosted when he is sitting inside. He always has a fine sheen of sweat on him.

I have this problem as well. The vast majority of my sweating is done on my head, which just pours sweat like a leaking faucet. I hardly sweat at all in my armpits or hands, but everything still gets wet because it just runs off my head like a waterfall. I'm way out of shape now so it's even worse, but even back when I was in pretty damn good shape I would still completely saturate a shirt just doing basic light activity. Hell, I'd sweat through a shirt bowling, for christ's sake.

[Xerxes]

I've been off for two weeks. I don't know what happened but it felt like my knee was about to fall off for the first week. I starting wrapping it and it started to get better. This week I've been walking on it but everything feels back to normal.

I thought it happened cause I woke up with my bed hanging off the bed in a way that's not cool with joint constraints.

My brother signed me up at the new free gym in his community. Think I'll start joining him for morning swim aerobics class. Give up trying to run for a few months/dozens of pounds.

[Bone]

I have this problem as well. The vast majority of my sweating is done on my head, which just pours sweat like a leaking faucet. I hardly sweat at all in my armpits or hands, but everything still gets wet because it just runs off my head like a waterfall. I'm way out of shape now so it's even worse, but even back when I was in pretty damn good shape I would still completely saturate a shirt just doing basic light activity. Hell, I'd sweat through a shirt bowling, for christ's sake.
It does suck! When I play music onstage I look like the hardest working musician in town. I wear a hat and keep a handkerchief on my amp.

Mine is also confined to my head; hyperhidrosis often is a pattern, and the head pattern is shaped like a sweatband starting on the forehead and wrapping around the back. You can feel the heat coming off it. The only fix is, oddly, Botox treatments annually. I'm not spending thousands of dollars every year so I just carry handkerchiefs and avoid stressing myself on the hotter days of the year.

[Siraris]

It does suck! When I play music onstage I look like the hardest working musician in town. I wear a hat and keep a handkerchief on my amp.

Mine is also confined to my head; hyperhidrosis often is a pattern, and the head pattern is shaped like a sweatband starting on the forehead and wrapping around the back. You can feel the heat coming off it. The only fix is, oddly, Botox treatments annually. I'm not spending thousands of dollars every year so I just carry handkerchiefs and avoid stressing myself on the hotter days of the year.

If only you could use this power for good instead of evil.

[Bone]

You need anything dampened, or made soggy?

Last night cooled off, so me, my girl, and Slipstream took the dog for a long walk. I broke off and ran the dog for a quarter mile, it felt great to get the blood moving again. And, no sweat.

[Siraris]

You need anything dampened, or made soggy?

Last night cooled off, so me, my girl, and Slipstream took the dog for a long walk. I broke off and ran the dog for a quarter mile, it felt great to get the blood moving again. And, no sweat.

I've been sweating more from working out lately, dunno why. I went to a show at a place here called the Beat Kitchen (it's essentially the size of a small bedroom) and a friend of mine left the show with his shirt almost translucent from sweating so much. I've never seen anything like it.

[evilgoodwin]

I've been sweating more from working out lately, dunno why. I went to a show at a place here called the Beat Kitchen (it's essentially the size of a small bedroom) and a friend of mine left the show with his shirt almost translucent from sweating so much. I've never seen anything like it.

Maybe you're sweating more because you're hydrating better? I dunno.

5th day of running completed. It's been rather breezy when I run, so I'm not bursting into flames from the heat. Yay me! (I'll stop posting these every day when I finish a week).

[Inspector Fowler]

I've been back on P90X. I hate it but love it.

It really increases my muscle mass. I end up with much bigger arms and chest than I had before.

But it also increases my hunger level. If I am disciplined about my calories I pretty much starve all fucking day - if I vary from my caloric limits even a little bit (for example, if I take one day off a week like I used to) my weight loss gets halted in its tracks. I have 45 lbs left to lose before I'm at a pretty healthy weight, yet even with vigorous exercise I have to eat so little that I get pretty miserable.

Let me tell you, it makes me a cranky mother fucker. To work out all week and starve 6 days and have no result on the scale. I know that some of the fat is being replaced by muscle, and if I stick with it the cumulative muscle gain will eventually help my metabolism to start really burning fat. But in the short term I mostly want to kick people's teeth in when they ask me how the weight loss is going.

[evilgoodwin]

I had to stop my walk-to-run program temporarily because I have started to develop a slight limp. I'm still walking every day, but the running is killing my right knee. Oh well.

[Inspector Fowler]

As a former long-distance runner (before the fatness came upon me) I would strongly recommend running no more than 2-3 days a week max for quite some time until you're sure you're ready to rock.

Also, learn some stretches - there are specific ones to prevent shin splints and other injuries.

[evilgoodwin]

As a former long-distance runner (before the fatness came upon me) I would strongly recommend running no more than 2-3 days a week max for quite some time until you're sure you're ready to rock.

Also, learn some stretches - there are specific ones to prevent shin splints and other injuries.

Hmm... I should have done some research first :D

I'm currently scouring my change jars and random junk drawers looking for the key to the fitness room. It's too hot to do anything right now.

[Inspector Fowler]

Running is one of those sports that gets a bad rep because people "do it wrong". Stress fractures and shin splints are the most common injuries that seem to get new runners.

Shin splints can largely be prevented with a few really basic stretches, and stress fractures can be avoided by very slowly building up mileage/time.

If there is a local running store that will do a gait analysis, go there. They can help recommend shoes to correct different problems with the way your foot strikes the pavement, shoes for heavier runners, shoes for trail running, etc.

People who take the time to "do running right" can run for decades. I think a lot of the time what happens is people get started too fast, get hurt a bunch, and then later they blame their aches and pains on the running.

[pronounconnoun]

An exercise related injury and my trip to Chicago has given me about a week and a half break of going to the gym. I'm going to start again, with a vengeance.

My goal is to reach 200 by mid December which is a year from when I started. I fluctuate from 215-220. That means I have to make another change in my diet, reducing the amount of sugars I ingest and also eating healthier foods spread through 5 meals a day. I've kind of fallen off the wagon in terms of eating, which is probably why I haven't lost any weight recently.

In terms of exercise, I'm going to increase my cardio and concentrate on getting leaner muscles with less weight and more repetitions.

So, my goal seems possible since I have two months losing on average 2 pounds a week bringing me to a total of 16 pounds lost. Hopefully it all works out.

[Xerxes]

Don't take the break. Do something man. Upper body if hurt your legs. Legs if you hurt your arms. Go walking. Do something. I've taken a break. ~_~

[Shjinta]

Not sure if anyone has seen this.

http://hundredpushups.com/index.html

I've been following it for 2 weeks now. Since I refuse to go to the gym(Can't really afford it anyways) I was looking for ways to get into shape. I started this and I do 40 minutes of walking everyday.

[Xerxes]

Not sure if anyone has seen this.

http://hundredpushups.com/index.html

I've been following it for 2 weeks now. Since I refuse to go to the gym(Can't really afford it anyways) I was looking for ways to get into shape. I started this and I do 40 minutes of walking everyday.

I'm sort of interested in the Two Hundred Situp variant. Thing is, I do 10 and it's almost painful to sit up as my gut cramps.

[Generation ABXY]

I'm sort of interested in the Two Hundred Situp variant. Thing is, I do 10 and it's almost painful to sit up as my gut cramps.

Just going by my experience, it sounds like you may not quite be ready for sit-ups and crunches yet, Xerxes. When I was trying to get off my weight, I had to start small and work my way up, from simple stomach vacuums to Romanian deadlifts (probably the most helpful, in my eyes) to, finally, core-focused exercises like that.

It may be different for everyone, of course, and I don't know how much you've done already, so I don't mean to speak out of turn.

[Xerxes]

Just going by my experience, it sounds like you may not quite be ready for sit-ups and crunches yet, Xerxes. When I was trying to get off my weight, I had to start small and work my way up, from simple stomach vacuums to Romanian deadlifts (probably the most helpful, in my eyes) to, finally, core-focused exercises like that.

It may be different for everyone, of course, and I don't know how much you've done already, so I don't mean to speak out of turn.

Today... I was kind of like Jabba when he got to fat the slither. :(

[evilgoodwin]

Today... I was kind of like Jabba when he got to fat the slither. :(

Jabba was always like that. To Hell with A New Hope: Special Edition's added scenes!

[Xerxes]

Jabba was always like that. To Hell with A New Hope: Special Edition's added scenes!

Well it's established that they slither. So you have to think when he was a young up and coming Hutt, he had to get around before he got all fat and said fuck it.

[evilgoodwin]

Let's just say we're both right.

[Xerxes]

Let's just say we're both right.

Oh, I can agree we officially never seen him move. But in the mythos, his kind moves by slithering. :D

[Generation ABXY]

Today... I was kind of like Jabba when he got to fat the slither. :(

Just be sure you keep at it, man. It may be a challenge, but, believe me, it's certainly one that can be met.

Personally, I need to get my running back in pace... maybe even pick it up some, if I can. With those winter doldrums looming on the horizon, goodness knows I could probably use the phenylethylamine boost. :D

[pronounconnoun]

Don't take the break. Do something man. Upper body if hurt your legs. Legs if you hurt your arms. Go walking. Do something. I've taken a break. ~_~

Break already taken sir. Started yesterday. Today I tried to go through my whole workout but fell short due to fatigue.

In terms of the sit-ups, I got a video with a medicine ball. I don't use it anymore if you want meto send it to you then you could just buy a cheap medicine ball. It's a good place to start and you can branch off as it gets easier. PM me if you are interested.

[pronounconnoun]

I'm going to try exercising in the morning for a few weeks to see if it is better than waiting until after work. I got up at 6 to go to the gym. I am one tired fat man.

This should give me more time to spend with my lady and also gaming. I haven't been able to play with others since the time I play is when most normal people are going to bed. I kind of need a more consistent workout time so this is my best option.

I am sore and my obliques feel like they are about to burst. Wish me luck.

[Xerxes]

I've had great success with morning workouts. I really wish I had something like normal people hours so that after my work out I can go knock work out the box. As it is I go to work like 5 hours after my workout and don't get off work until midnight. Normally I'm left sitting there watching movies and tv for about 3-4 hours. I'm back on the ball, feeling good.

Been thinking about quitting TV though. I mean I like shows, but I hate cliffhangers and going through a whole season in a weekend or so is great stuff. Might have to keep the Thursday night line up though; The League, Always Sunny, 30 Rock and Community. Laughter helps the abs you know. O_o

I've tried working out at night but then I just crash afterwards almost everytime. Instead of warming up for the day, I felt worn out after a long day. Also you get that metabolism going all day.

[pronounconnoun]

Watching TV while working out is something I'll miss. Today there was only news about rapes and stabbings. Nothing funny about that.

[Xerxes]

Watching TV while working out is something I'll miss. Today there was only news about rapes and stabbings. Nothing funny about that.

I still using Yourself Fitness on my HDTV LCD and watch shows/movies on my laptop that's side by side.:D

No news for me.

[pronounconnoun]

I think about taking my iPad to the gym, but I'm afraid of sweating all over it. I was thinking of caving and getting an iPod touch to work out with.

[IIntrude]

Since I posted last I am down 40-45ish lbs. Should hit the 50 mark by the end of the month I am guessing. The wife is down 35lbs so far. All this from a simple change in diet.

[Karak]

So something unique for all.
I know we talked about the Vitamin C issue with Cortisol and weight lifters believing that it has some properties that tie them together with Vitamin C extra supplementation reducing Cortisol release.
2 months ago I figured fuck it. I am going to take 5000mg daily of it and see what happens.

2 months to the day.
I am 9 pounds lighter and have lost 4 inches on my waistline. Let me say that 3 inches is more than I had actually wanted (or lets just say thought about). Nothing else has changed and my waist area is indeed the main spot the loss seemed to come from. So much so that I can see my six pack returning from high-school and though my electrica caliper tests have changed only 1/3rd of an inch elsewhere. The stomach area has shrunk incredibly And despite that weight never having come off before in all the other times, with no other changes aside from the Vit-C extra.

Proof that the roiders (jk) may be on to something? Who knows. They are constantly using their bodies as freaking test beds.

But I do know it seemed to do....something for me that was in line with what they have been reporting for the last 10 years. And for once they weren't telling me to do something illegal.

[pronounconnoun]

So something unique for all.
I know we talked about the Vitamin C issue with Cortisol and weight lifters believing that it has some properties that tie them together with Vitamin C extra supplementation reducing Cortisol release.
2 months ago I figured fuck it. I am going to take 5000mg daily of it and see what happens.

2 months to the day.
I am 9 pounds lighter and have lost 4 inches on my waistline. Let me say that 3 inches is more than I had actually wanted (or lets just say thought about). Nothing else has changed and my waist area is indeed the main spot the loss seemed to come from. So much so that I can see my six pack returning from high-school and though my electrica caliper tests have changed only 1/3rd of an inch elsewhere. The stomach area has shrunk incredibly And despite that weight never having come off before in all the other times, with no other changes aside from the Vit-C extra.

Proof that the roiders (jk) may be on to something? Who knows. They are constantly using their bodies as freaking test beds.

But I do know it seemed to do....something for me that was in line with what they have been reporting for the last 10 years. And for once they weren't telling me to do something illegal.

Using 1 to 3 grams daily spread over two to three doses is advised for almost all athletes. 3 grams is a high dose and unless you are actively pursuing some top-notch goals, 1500 mg is probably a good dose (3x500 mg). Spread them evenly, but be sure to take at least one dose after your workout with your postworkout shake.

Source: bodybuilding.com (http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/catbulk.htm)

A few years ago I noticed a study that suggested that large amounts of vitamin C might interfere with the energy pathway called "glycolysis." Glycolysis is essentially the burning of carbohydrates in the form of glucose for energy in muscular exertion. The idea was that vitamin C (ascorbic acid) could block an enzyme that is required in the chemical reaction for glucose burning -- enough to cause an adverse effect.

Source: About.com (http://weighttraining.about.com/b/2008/06/02/go-easy-on-the-vitamin-c-when-you-train.htm)

Contradicting articles. Interesting. But still, I agree with the "results may vary" school of thought, Karak.

I was thinking of taking more vitamins (my current dosage being 0). How long do you think it took for you to see "results?" I might shoot for one month and see how it goes.

[Karak]

Source: bodybuilding.com (http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/catbulk.htm)

Source: About.com (http://weighttraining.about.com/b/2008/06/02/go-easy-on-the-vitamin-c-when-you-train.htm)

Contradicting articles. Interesting. But still, I agree with the "results may vary" school of thought, Karak.

I was thinking of taking more vitamins (my current dosage being 0). How long do you think it took for you to see "results?" I might shoot for one month and see how it goes.
Ya we discussed all those in...July here, I think. I can't remember when. I have been studying C for maybe 3 years now due to a family members illness and that's what first started me on the investigation.

FYI, I steer FAR FAR away from Bodybuilding.com. As far as humanly possible and then add a couple thousands feet just to be careful their...expertise doesn't get all over me. Like any shotgun effect, some of the stuff there is fine, however, when crosstalk is so high...anywhere, I begin to look elsewhere for data. As you can tell, even when they may agree...even half hearted with something others talk about...I still stay away hahahahaha.

As for About.com...the reason is is most likely contradicting is it is based on very old data, that now has been pretty much disputed. NOT FULLY...but lets just say they should occasionally update their shit. If they are going to call themselves about.com. They always seem to have a habit of sounding like my brother. "I noticed and article..." K thankx dude...you sound like you paid attention:) Sorry I have a thing about them.

I was keeping the Vit-C part of my diet a very casual but daily thing. I.E. I didn't stress it nor watch anything daily or measure daily. I wanted to see what 1 month than 2 did for me.
I noticed it at 1. I also noticed, now remember I was already getting the SUPPOSED amount of Vit C I was supposed to get, that the belly fat seemed...less 1 month in.
Also, since the jury is out on if Vit-C gives you more or less energy, everyone seems to think it does something else than someone else does, which is normal for something that can't be patented, I felt much better with a larger amount.

Was 5000mg overkill? Ya. But I am not sure how much. Now that they have debunked the whole, "pissing it ALL out" debacle, no one seems to know exactly how much you piss out and how much DOES stay in and get used. They also all argue over delivery methods.
Pill, liquid, powder. Each offers a different pathway and possibilities for digestion and C has some unusual variables in almost everyone with small amounts or large amounts having different impact on people for little to now known cause.

I posted here just to say I did it. Not to really push it for anyone else. The...questionable body building sect, seems to swear on it. And when a group who can get illegal items seems to push a legal thing...it is useful to check out. Even if it is to read and understand more.
I am not suggesting this. Just stating that I did it instead of randomly talking about it with theories.
And luckily it worked well for me.

And Pronounconnoun FYI...And this is even with illegal items people may take. I think EVERYTHING is "your results may vary". I totally and will always agree with that:)

[pronounconnoun]

I am not suggesting this. Just stating that I did it instead of randomly talking about it with theories.
And luckily it worked well for me.

And Pronounconnoun FYI...And this is even with illegal items people may take. I think EVERYTHING is "your results may vary". I totally and will always agree with that:)

Actually my doctor was the one who suggested vitamin C when I asked him what kind of supplements I should be taking.

I was intrigued by your story so I did a little research. Most places seem to be peddling their product, so I don't trust them entirely anyway. I have a hard time taking supplements. I tried Nitric Oxide and it gave me a headache, plus I doubt that shit is good for your heart. I stopped taking it almost immediately. The thought of taking a natural vitamin rather than some concoction that is supposed to magically give me more energy is appealing.

Most places I checked still say getting vitamin C naturally is the best, but I think I'll stick with the tablets for now.

Thanks for the info.

[Karak]

Actually my doctor was the one who suggested vitamin C when I asked him what kind of supplements I should be taking.

I was intrigued by your story so I did a little research. Most places seem to be peddling their product, so I don't trust them entirely anyway. I have a hard time taking supplements. I tried Nitric Oxide and it gave me a headache, plus I doubt that shit is good for your heart. I stopped taking it almost immediately. The thought of taking a natural vitamin rather than some concoction that is supposed to magically give me more energy is appealing.

Most places I checked still say getting vitamin C naturally is the best, but I think I'll stick with the tablets for now.

Thanks for the info.
Ya I take a sub with JUST C in it. I hate hate hate Nitric Oxide even if it is natural technically.
When I was trying to get my bench past 410 and squat past 610 I kept being told that the only way to up those naturally would be to change a good deal of my eating habits(not interested right now) or Nitric O. I went with NO xplode I think. And it just made my head ROAR...ug.

The only things that have EVER worked for me with my own blind testing. This is where insomnia and free time always helps were:
Tribulis T by Soloray (huge change) others did nothing
Humanafort (very good change) can't remember company
Aspirin Daily (obvious)
White grapefruit juice with supplements. (VERY DANGEROUS with some sups) but man the uptake with grapefruit juice is tremendous.
Niacin (Good energy boost for a little bit and did notice a bit of a quick start during dieting)

Things that made me ill or didn't work:

Yohimbe. (Made me so sick the couple times I took it I had to stay away.)
Redline Drink (Made me giggly. And now does nothing but kill me. It has yohimbe or did. Ug.
Androstinine when it was legal (made me feel itchy)

[Abyssion]

So, I was wondering if anyone on here owns/uses a treadmill? I've considered buying one for a long while now and I think I might take the plunge. I'm not really big on running outside which is why I would prefer having a treadmill.

One thing I would be specifically looking for would be a tray or something to set my laptop on. I know that may sound lame, but I wouldn't mind watching TV shows or something while running/jogging/walking.

Thanks for any help. (Sorry, I didn't skim through the 1000 prior posts <_< )

[Karak]

I have a good treadmill and many the 500.00+ will have trays or assemblies you can use. However, while watching a show while working out is possible, there are a good deal of studies that show that shows, books and other eye intensive activites can have a negative impact on the output of the person using the item. So I would say make sure you have a treadmill that forces you to keep at a steady pace and make sure its a good click that works very well for you.

I sometimes listen to audio books but within 45 seconds I have usually dropped down about .7 mph just from trying to hear it. Totally subconscious but it happens. Other than that, treadmills are an awesome way to burn some calories as long as you know how to find out what you really burned versus what the machine tells you. You really need something NOT connected to the machine that reads your heart-rate and so on. Many machines exaggerate the amount and some fitness websites even have reviews of ones that show how much they exagerate.

[Abyssion]

Thanks Karak! I guess I'll start doing a little online reading for some reputable companies and the models they make.

[Karak]

Thanks Karak! I guess I'll start doing a little online reading for some reputable companies and the models they make.

No problem. And don't worry, I am not getting down on treadmills I just think everything has a place and everything needs to be checked to make sure your not being led to believe something that isn't true. Working out is hard enough as it is, it is fucking HEARTBREAKING to find out that something you are doing isn't getting you the full benefit it promised or was supposed to.
If you bear that in mind a treadmill can be an insane...insane workout machine. You just have to realise that the machine is moving the tread for you, removing a good deal of kick energy from being needed as well as the muscle mass to defeat your bodies desire to slow down.

I use them for a majority of things, sprintes, intense walks like putting it on the highest difficulty and at the fastest possible walk and then when I can't stand it anymore, lowering it to the lowest difficulty and jogging. Its funny how jogging feels SO Much easier after 7 minutes of high grade walking::)

Oh also, if you don't like running I would take a walk 2-4 times a week as well. That can keep muscles, that are not impacted during treadmill running, working and stretched. This goes a long way to stoping some of the injuries long time treadmill runners end up getting.

Good luck, I love mine!

[Abyssion]

Before I leave for work, I should probably ask what treadmill you use. Right now I'm seeing that ProForm treadmills are highest rated Sports Authority's site and I found some 40 dollar thing that can basically be used for a laptop holder, it's called the SurfShelf.

Crap, I gotta head out! I'll check this when I get home later tonight.

[Karak]

Before I leave for work, I should probably ask what treadmill you use. Right now I'm seeing that ProForm treadmills are highest rated Sports Authority's site and I found some 40 dollar thing that can basically be used for a laptop holder, it's called the SurfShelf.

Crap, I gotta head out! I'll check this when I get home later tonight.

I use a Proform actually that's the one I like the most, but I have owned others that arn't as good but still do their job.

[destoo]

late to the party, been lurking a lot..

Started back on October 15th
220lbs, 6', and a BMI of around 30.

I'd started logging everything I ate in the Livestrong.com/myplate website on october 21st.
Helped me realize that some crap was just not worth it, and that if I skipped lunches or even snacks I ended up eating more for the whole day. I also needed to drink more liquids.
After two weeks, I started changing my eating habits.
Today, about 11 weeks later, I'm at 208lbs. One pound a week.

I'm planning on starting to exercise, but managing three kids is usually exercise enuff.

Those 5lbs plastic wii weights, along with the step riser for the Wii Fit board, are very useful. They were definitely worth it for us.

[Xerxes]

Still here. Starting tomorrow. Rawr!

[resikel]

This past year I went from 175lbs in January down to 160lbs in mid July. Then I bruised my ribs in a hot tub incident and couldn't exercise or do much anything else for that matter for a couple months. When December rolled in I was back to 175lbs (and climbing toward 180lbs -- my absolute "you ain't getting fatter than that!" cut off point).

In addition, my gout was coming back. That was it. I had to change my diet and get back to my running. Now, one month later, I'm down to around 167lbs from just eating better -- no processed beef, no seafood, eating more salads, chicken, turkey and drinking 100% cherry juice, V8, and water...and no more coffee in the morning.

And today was the first time I put on my running shoes and got out there in a long time.

[Generation ABXY]

Still here. Starting tomorrow. Rawr!

And best of luck to you, too, Xerxes!

Unfortunately, I saw a lot of change last year... and not for the better. In addition to just putting together a proper workout again (instead of whatever I feel like at the time), I'm afraid I'm also going to have to cut out soda. So long, old friend - you will be missed! :(

[Xerxes]

I cut fraps at the start of the year. A huge vice. And as of today I'm off fast food and anything larger than a 8oz Red Bull. I want to stop completely, but I haven't been operational with out caffeine for a while.

[Bone]

Fuck, I slid backwards. I was down to 185 last summer, now I'm back up to 202. Fat and happy, they say... but I'd prefer fit and happy. Back to running and biking and a stern talk with my bacon supply.

[Karak]

I cut fraps at the start of the year. A huge vice. And as of today I'm off fast food and anything larger than a 8oz Red Bull. I want to stop completely, but I haven't been operational with out caffeine for a while.

When I wanted to cut soda I did two things.
I bought a small supply of Viviran(A pill with around 1 cup of coffee caffeine in it). I then switched to diet soda without caffeine until I got myself in control then switched back to diet without caffeine it worked well.

I also made sure I had a bit of caffeinated drinks just in case for a quick start or if a pill just wasn't enough. It allowed me to ween off. I will admit I was tired but not as bad as I would have been had I cut it all out.

[Superman's Dead]

I just had a whole post typed...and now I have to re-type it. So I will make the long story short.

I could eat anything I wanted...until a few months ago. So now in addition to being rail-thin in all my limbs, I have something of a belly starting. Which isn't a big deal, except it looks ridiculous with the rest of my body type. Like, ridiculous. So I need to start working out more and eating better- eating better consistently for the first time since I went into high school.

I need to gain weight in muscle everywhere because I'm thin, but lose this silly stupid stomach. So any ideas for that, as well as simple hot meals I can cook/prepare to be eating right. Cause I'm pretty clueless.

On the plus side I already don't eat beef or pork or drink a lot of soda, but I absolutely refuse to cut alcohol from my diet. refuse.

So...suggestions?

edit: my idea of cooking a hot meal is 'heaping bowl of pasta with other things on it sometimes'. So I should probably cut that out. But it's just so good...

[Ink Asylum]

I've never been very heavy, but over a year ago I noticed that I'd developed a belly and weighed 185. Not much, I know, but more than I wanted to weigh.

I managed to lose 25 pounds in the past year and I credit a lot of that to a change in diet. I cut down on soda and sweets a whole lot. Most effectively I simply don't buy anything but seltzer for the fridge and limit my sweet snacks to one bag of cookies. Drinking only seltzer and water while home, and bringing bottle of it to work, has definitely helped.

[Abyssion]

Putting a treadmill together is a workout in and of itself O_O

I broke a wrench trying to tighten the bolts on the supports for the console, and for some reason the console itself won't fully screw into the preset holes (not to mention the holes did not line up with the armbars very well, so they're in there a bit crooked). I'm expecting the entire thing to fall apart as I'm walking on it five minutes into it's first time being fired up. :p

Also, Superman a teacher once said that a good way to start dieting is to eat what you like, just eat less of it. Try that out when it comes to eating a bowl of pasta, try a half heap or something. Maybe gradually eat less a meal, but don't starve yourself or anything of course.

[Karak]

I just had a whole post typed...and now I have to re-type it. So I will make the long story short.

I could eat anything I wanted...until a few months ago. So now in addition to being rail-thin in all my limbs, I have something of a belly starting. Which isn't a big deal, except it looks ridiculous with the rest of my body type. Like, ridiculous. So I need to start working out more and eating better- eating better consistently for the first time since I went into high school.

I need to gain weight in muscle everywhere because I'm thin, but lose this silly stupid stomach. So any ideas for that, as well as simple hot meals I can cook/prepare to be eating right. Cause I'm pretty clueless.

On the plus side I already don't eat beef or pork or drink a lot of soda, but I absolutely refuse to cut alcohol from my diet. refuse.

So...suggestions?

edit: my idea of cooking a hot meal is 'heaping bowl of pasta with other things on it sometimes'. So I should probably cut that out. But it's just so good...

Are you...just talking about diets?
If not, P90(not P90x) would work for that kind of thing every well. It will add definition and a tiny bit of bulk but will destroy the stomach fat...or your sanity.

As for diets. If your metabolism is slowly changing(which it seems like your indicating) I would suggest making a small change to daily calories. Maybe 200-300. Especially if the weight creeped up on you. Then if you augment that with 200-300 calories workouts you will create a "potential" 400-600 calorie deficit. Potential only that as has been proven, calories are not a perfect in/out system due to each person requiring different amounts of calories and so forth for losing, doing workouts, and how much they intake.

If it crept up on you I suggest small changes augmented with small workouts. If it leapt onto your belly with the hate of a thousand suns....then I suggest crank and roids:)

[Generation ABXY]

So far, my plan to cut out soda has been going... horribly (I still manage one every other day, it seems).

How goes it with the fraps, Xerxes?

[TheFlyingOrc]

Ugh. Guys, I need to quit getting a biscuit in the mornings.

On the positive side, I'm doing reps of 200lbs on the bench press now. Being strong is super keen.

[Bone]

I need to demote Bacon from a food group back to a vegetable. I can't even stop capitalizing it.

[evilgoodwin]

I need to demote Bacon from a food group back to a vegetable. I can't even stop capitalizing it.

You should use my plan. Instead of not eating bacon, I choose to eat bacon and not eat something else. That way, you still get bacon.

Having said that, remember that Mac & Cheese is a vegetable, according to Luby's. Eat the bacon.

BACON.

[Bone]

So, a bacon and bacon (veggie) burger with bacon buns it is.

[Karak]

Luckily I am on a keto diet so bacon is in.
Just got my second set of bloodwork back(getting old enough that checking this yearly makes sense)
Off the charts awesome. Everything totally in check. Love it.

[Bone]

Yeah, that's the odd thing. Despite my weight gain and predilection for bacon, my blood pressure and cholesterol are the best they've been in years. BP is actually in the Normal instead of High-Normal range. Fish oil pills and no soda is about the only other change besides more regular (but not like regular regular) exercise.

[Karak]

Yeah, that's the odd thing. Despite my weight gain and predilection for bacon, my blood pressure and cholesterol are the best they've been in years. BP is actually in the Normal instead of High-Normal range. Fish oil pills and no soda is about the only other change besides more regular (but not like regular regular) exercise.

Fish oil can indeed bring about a couple changes. Some people's bodies have a greater ability to adjust to differing situations that others. Its like models of cars. Some run perfect despite little maintenance, others have incredible problems the moment they miss their first oil change.

I know that the Keto diet basically put everything back into line for me and allowed me to drop some serious weight (as I got older weight gain was easier:( so I had some to lose)

BP is such a scary thing. Almost no one takes it serious until its is SERIOUS. But high BP is incredibly dangerous even at young ages. Glad to hear yours is in check.

[Xerxes]

So far, my plan to cut out soda has been going... horribly (I still manage one every other day, it seems).

How goes it with the fraps, Xerxes?

I haven't had one all year (21 days). No desire for one. I was off red bulls too. Only for a week though. Got head with a two day ocular headache. Headache meds didn't stop it but the Red Bull knocked it on it's ass asap. I went with only a small can though so I figure that's something.

I was never really on soda I like to think. I did have a couple sprites a couple weeks ago but I had some stomach issues. Once those were over I was going with water and diet green ice tea.

I need to get back on the ball. I started listening to some tapes. *wink wink* Karak

[Superman's Dead]

I haven't had one all year (21 days). No desire for one.

Oh, man. I make lattes all the time at work when I'm tired, and I decided to make soy ones from now on...

Jesus Christ do soy lattes suck. Tastes like chalk. Chalk with added vanilla flavoring.

So I'm trying to run at least 4 days a week, but I'm awful at it. I was on some elliptical machine the other day, working up a sweat, and thought I was doing a good job at this 'working out' thing. Then I got a phone call from my agent, and found out I had an audition WAY across town WAY soon. To make it in time I need to get home quick. I hate running in public (or jogging) with a fiery passion. But I decided it was worth it.

I ran for maybe...five minutes. It took the absolute shit out of me. I was dying, my calves STILL hurt, and I could hardly breathe. I guess I need to start using a treadmill way more seriously than I have been.

And considering this thread...I guess I should start taking vitamins, or something? Yeah. I should probably start taking vitamins.

Looking at P90, Karak...woah boy. I don't know how long I'd last.

The really shitty thing is that I'm not that good at this fitness stuff, but it is integral to my life. I just auditioned for a part where I'd be almost naked, and I'm about to have a meeting for a show where all the men are always fighting and shirtless...I need to have way more going on.

[Karak]

Oh, man. I make lattes all the time at work when I'm tired, and I decided to make soy ones from now on...

Jesus Christ do soy lattes suck. Tastes like chalk. Chalk with added vanilla flavoring.

So I'm trying to run at least 4 days a week, but I'm awful at it. I was on some elliptical machine the other day, working up a sweat, and thought I was doing a good job at this 'working out' thing. Then I got a phone call from my agent, and found out I had an audition WAY across town WAY soon. To make it in time I need to get home quick. I hate running in public (or jogging) with a fiery passion. But I decided it was worth it.

I ran for maybe...five minutes. It took the absolute shit out of me. I was dying, my calves STILL hurt, and I could hardly breathe. I guess I need to start using a treadmill way more seriously than I have been.

And considering this thread...I guess I should start taking vitamins, or something? Yeah. I should probably start taking vitamins.

Looking at P90, Karak...woah boy. I don't know how long I'd last.

The really shitty thing is that I'm not that good at this fitness stuff, but it is integral to my life. I just auditioned for a part where I'd be almost naked, and I'm about to have a meeting for a show where all the men are always fighting and shirtless...I need to have way more going on.
Well lets be honest. P90 is not something ANYONE...or most ANYONE is good at, when they begin. Its a bitch, wrapped it a bastard with fucker sauce.

But the simple fact is, there is a MASSIVE pride boost when you get through it. If you have a lick of pride, the ability to feel competitive(with yourself, goals or others) you simply can't go wrong. On the other hand maybe as a start it isn't for you. I say it is, but I am not you. I am the person who starts the HARDEST thing possible first. I headbutt my way through it. Because after that...everything is easy.

I think you can do it.

[Zagrash]

I haven't checked in for awhile, but after being hurt/lazy for the second half of 2010, I weighed myself right around new years, and knew I had to get back to exercising. I was entirely too close to my "stop eating and do nothing but exercise" weight - 300# (as a reminder, I'm 6'6" and of a pretty large build, so I don't necessarily look humongous or anything), so I set a few very attainable goals for the new year, and so far I've been demolishing at least one of them.

My goals were to lose at least 2 pounds per month - with an ultimate goal of getting to 250#, and cut at least 5 minutes off of my 5k time for a turkey trot I did for the first time at the end of 2010. After 25 days of hitting Insanity REALLY freaking hard, so far I've lost 16 pounds, and I'll probably be checking my 5k time on Friday, on my day off from Insanity.

I'm not particularly following any diet, I'm just trying to eat better, and a bit less. I'm doing my best not to drink any calories, with the exception of a glass of skim milk with dinner, and with cereal. I've had a beer here or there, but I've kept it to one beer/night.

Insanity is still freaking crazy, but it's a hell of a workout, and I'm hoping some of this weight just keeps melting off of me.

[pronounconnoun]

Checking in as well:

I've decided to start eating off of smaller plates. It gives me the illusion that I'm eating a lot more and I really don't need all that much. I do alright as long as I'm not home, then I snack like a mother-fucker. I must stop this.

I'm going to try and cut snacks out of my diet for a while and concentrate on running. This isn't a resolution, but something that I lost sight of and I have to get back on the weight loss, and quickly.

[Superman's Dead]

So I took my before pictures and started my first day of P90. The thing about the first day is, it's pretty easy. All things I've done before (just not together or as intensely), so it's a good feeling. I worked up a sweat just with the weights, which I hardly ever do. I also started with 8 pound weights and that was pretty much perfect. I think if I can eventually do the whole workout with 15 pounds I'll be in a pretty good place.

I don't know what it is about my shoulders, but they are so much harder to work out than every other part of my body. Ouch.

I'm not looking forward to the sweat/ab first day tomorrow...I am the worst at cardio. The worst.

But I will do it, because Karak believes in me. And I will curse his name.

[Karak]

But I will do it, because Karak believes in me. And I will curse his name.

I do...and yes you will.

Its like the circle of life...except without the lions...or the songs...infact its basically just the part where the good guys die:)

[Ink Asylum]

Checking in as well:

I've decided to start eating off of smaller plates. It gives me the illusion that I'm eating a lot more and I really don't need all that much. I do alright as long as I'm not home, then I snack like a mother-fucker. I must stop this.

I'm going to try and cut snacks out of my diet for a while and concentrate on running. This isn't a resolution, but something that I lost sight of and I have to get back on the weight loss, and quickly.

The solution to snacking at home is to not buy snacks for home. Especially sweet snacks. The only sweet snack in my kitchen is one box of cookies, drinks included.

[evilgoodwin]

The solution to snacking at home is to not buy snacks for home. Especially sweet snacks. The only sweet snack in my kitchen is one box of cookies, drinks included.

This.

I eat carrot sticks now. For the price of a big bag of chips, you get so many carrots that you start to hate carrots and wish they would all die in a fire.

Haven't been able to give up soda 100%, but I do drink more diet and "0" stuff. Sometimes, you just need a Dr Pepper.

Cut down on my drinking as well. Only drink on Tuesdays and Friday/Saturday, which is an improvement for me.

Hope to start walking again, soon, but I just can not wake up at a decent hour anymore.

[Zagrash]

ok, I apparently need to re-evaluate my goals, because so far I'm completely obliterating them, and we're just one month into the year! On my day off from Insanity, I went jogging, just turned on MyTracks and jogged for around 40 minutes. My goal was to shave 5 minutes off of my 5k time (which was somewhere between 44-46 minutes...I was not in shape at all at the time), and tonight I went 5.28km in 38:31...so I've already cut off more than 5 minutes after just a month of Insanity!

I've signed up for another 5k in April, so I'll get a chance to get another officially timed 5k under my belt, but at this point, I'm hoping to get to at least 35 minutes before April, and then re-evaluate my Turkey Trot goal after that.

[dualshotty23]

This.

I eat carrot sticks now. For the price of a big bag of chips, you get so many carrots that you start to hate carrots and wish they would all die in a fire.



i did this with pickles and if i have to take pickles off anything i swear i can still taste them to their full affect. been a while since i last commented on here, Karak and myself discussed vitamin c i think. anyways since October i have lost 23 lbs via diet and exercise. I get married in June and want to lose another 20 but this is coming off a lot slower and it is nearly all in my stomach. i make take the evil plunge and experiment on my body with vitamin c too, given Karak's review.

[Karak]

i did this with pickles and if i have to take pickles off anything i swear i can still taste them to their full affect. been a while since i last commented on here, Karak and myself discussed vitamin c i think. anyways since October i have lost 23 lbs via diet and exercise. I get married in June and want to lose another 20 but this is coming off a lot slower and it is nearly all in my stomach. i make take the evil plunge and experiment on my body with vitamin c too, given Karak's review.

:)
Don't expect magic. But as I said, there was a difference. However, aside from that congratulations! That's good news, really good news.

I think to lose that last little bit maybe you should just alter your workout timing, or length. I know that when I stalled I found that if I changed my workout time even by 1-2 hours I ended up losing again. This speaks to the incredible efficiency of the human body to grow accustomed to work and its time.

[Generation ABXY]

Yes, congrats on the pending nuptials, dualshotty, and best of luck reaching your goal. :)

[dualshotty23]

thanks guys, i have decided to shake things up i am going to give p90x another try (it kicked my ass to the point where i was miserable, the first time). but a little vit c wont hurt (probably) and i shouldnt get sick in the next few months :)

[resikel]

I found this:

http://media.fukung.net/images/34351/af2cff9a1135e0fd1223959ba5ef1706.gif

I've ran in the past, not with any serious training nor concrete planning.

If I can do 30 minutes of continuous running that would be awesome. Gonna give this a try.

[pronounconnoun]

I'm trying to bring my running back up to 3 miles continuous run. Nice chart.

The solution to snacking at home is to not buy snacks for home. Especially sweet snacks. The only sweet snack in my kitchen is one box of cookies, drinks included.

I only drink soda when we go out to eat and haven't picked up any for home in quite some time.

A little harder for candy or pastries, which is what really kills me because I buy them without thinking and they don't make me feel full.

[Karak]

Yes!

Blood work back and it is fucking awesome again.

Also Beat my personal record for my 6 mile run and got my personal best on bench again. Doing well.
How is everyone else doing?

[TheFlyingOrc]

Yes!

Blood work back and it is fucking awesome again.

Also Beat my personal record for my 6 mile run and got my personal best on bench again. Doing well.
How is everyone else doing?

Time to brag like hell.

I'm on Optifast, which is a Doctor-supervised superdiet (don't do this thing without medical supervision. Seriously.)

I started in early February, and it's going to go through May.

I currently get 800 calories a day from food they give me (bars, shakes, and soups). On top of that, I have to drink a ton of water and take extra fiber.

1 shake in the morning, 2 bars during the day, 1 soup at night, 1 shake late night.

I get blood tests every two weeks.

Anyway, in the last 4 weeks, I've lost 23.5 pounds, while my wife has lost 19. (we're probably at 20 and 25 now, we last weighed on Monday).

By the end of 4 months, I should lose 50 pounds, for a target weight of 215 from being at ~267. And I'm almost certainly going to make it.

[Borthcollective]

Wow 800 calories is low.

[carnage11]

I fell off the P90X train back in December when I moved. I fell into a hole of drinking lots of beer (like A LOT) and eating really bad. Lots of fat, really gorging myself. It was just sad. I feel ashamed. For example, I went to Red Lobster and ate like 5 cheese biscuits (150 calories a piece) all the while dipping them in their lobster bisque. As well as the a huge plate of lobster and crab. I probably gained 20 pounds over the past 3 months, not to mention lost all the muscle tone I had gained last year. Now I'm a flabby mess. :(

Last week I started a healthier diet and jumped back on the P90X train, as well as I'm running/jogging/speed walking. So I'm basically starting all over again. What a waste! Oh well, I gotta get ready for the beach season. :cool:

I'll keep it posted here, how my progression goes. I'm currently 185 lbs. at 6'1". I'd like to lose about 15 or so lbs. of fat, and replace it with muscle tone. So I'm not looking to drop my weight, just swap out the fat for muscle.

As far as diet: I've all but quit drinking. I'm eating a lot of fruits and vegetables. Minimizing my meal sizes. Consuming a protein shake daily.

[TheFlyingOrc]

Wow 800 calories is low.

It is. It's pretty much the absolute floor you can hit without your body going into starvation mode and doing very, VERY strange things. The great thing is that since this is a medically supervised thing, my body doesn't really react strangely. I'm just hungry more often. :)

But 23.5 pounds of healthy weight loss in 4 weeks? You can't beat it.

[Generation ABXY]

Seems a little drastic, but I'm glad to hear it seems to be working for you, TFO.

[TheFlyingOrc]

Seems a little drastic, but I'm glad to hear it seems to be working for you, TFO.

I'm mostly doing it for the wife. She hasn't been able to find any plan that works for her, and she's overweight enough that she really needs something fast - and I don't want to pursue surgical options if we can avoid it. The fact that I'm on it, as well, really helps to encourage her to do better on it. She's pretty much never lost 20 pounds on a diet, and now she's done it in 4 weeks!

[Generation ABXY]

Well, yes, it certainly seems less drastic than surgical alternatives. As I said, I'm glad for you, and I can appreciate that kind of concern for her.

Here's hoping the both of you reach your goals, man. :)

[Borthcollective]

I'm mostly doing it for the wife. She hasn't been able to find any plan that works for her, and she's overweight enough that she really needs something fast - and I don't want to pursue surgical options if we can avoid it. The fact that I'm on it, as well, really helps to encourage her to do better on it. She's pretty much never lost 20 pounds on a diet, and now she's done it in 4 weeks!

That is great, having someone to go through it with would be so helpful. Do have to attend counseling sessions to teach you what to eat when you've finished the program, that would be a concern of mine were I to consider a similar program. It's all for not if you don't learn anything.

Oh, and congrats.

[Karak]

Time to brag like hell.

I'm on Optifast, which is a Doctor-supervised superdiet (don't do this thing without medical supervision. Seriously.)

I started in early February, and it's going to go through May.

I currently get 800 calories a day from food they give me (bars, shakes, and soups). On top of that, I have to drink a ton of water and take extra fiber.

1 shake in the morning, 2 bars during the day, 1 soup at night, 1 shake late night.

I get blood tests every two weeks.

Anyway, in the last 4 weeks, I've lost 23.5 pounds, while my wife has lost 19. (we're probably at 20 and 25 now, we last weighed on Monday).

By the end of 4 months, I should lose 50 pounds, for a target weight of 215 from being at ~267. And I'm almost certainly going to make it.

I have a couple friends who did this, or something exactly like it. It worked for them(Kept it off 7+years).
They got to a low amount but it taught them eating habits (portions and so forth).

Congrats!

[TheFlyingOrc]

Thanks, it is very tough to not eat pizza, but the most my wife and I have cheated with so far is Zucchini or Asparagus.

Oh, and there's a transition period out where they teach you how to eat right. So they'll teach me things I don't want to know.

[TheKeck]

So, I've never participated in this thread and really wasn't setting out to lose weight, but with my new cholesterol friendly diet and exercise I've lot about 27 pounds since the new year and counting. Just thought I'd share. :)

[TheFlyingOrc]

So, I've never participated in this thread and really wasn't setting out to lose weight, but with my new cholesterol friendly diet and exercise I've lot about 27 pounds since the new year and counting. Just thought I'd share. :)

That's freakishly awesome. Go you.

[TheKeck]

That's freakishly awesome. Go you.
Thanks! Thankfully I still get to eat plenty, just only healthy stuff. :) 800 calories a day seems nuts. Go you too.

[Karak]

So, I've never participated in this thread and really wasn't setting out to lose weight, but with my new cholesterol friendly diet and exercise I've lot about 27 pounds since the new year and counting. Just thought I'd share. :)

Congrats. That is a very good amount.

[Superman's Dead]

I REALLY need to start eating right.

I've kept on top of the P90 work out plan (it's been interrupted with travel a once or twice) but even though my muscles have gotten bigger so has my stomach. I need to figure out how to make a diet that works for me...I just get so HUNGRY and can't fathom taking home a salad instead of cajun penne pasta with cream sauce and chicken. But you always have to start somewhere, so hopefully tomorrow I can get this going. I know I have great abs under there somewhere.

[Karak]

I REALLY need to start eating right.

I've kept on top of the P90 work out plan (it's been interrupted with travel a once or twice) but even though my muscles have gotten bigger so has my stomach. I need to figure out how to make a diet that works for me...I just get so HUNGRY and can't fathom taking home a salad instead of cajun penne pasta with cream sauce and chicken. But you always have to start somewhere, so hopefully tomorrow I can get this going. I know I have great abs under there somewhere.
You have a high fiber intake? Fiber should be removing hunger pains. If it isn't there is a good chance you have a specific vitamin/mineral your beginning to crave which is totally normal. Do you find that a specific food is working to curb the hunger?

[Superman's Dead]

You have a high fiber intake? Fiber should be removing hunger pains. If it isn't there is a good chance you have a specific vitamin/mineral your beginning to crave which is totally normal. Do you find that a specific food is working to curb the hunger?

It's usually carbs: breads and pasta. But that could just be because I know those foods are filling. During the early part of the day I usually do really well, a small (or no) breakfast, usually a pretty good sized lunch (sushi or something like that). But when it comes to dinner if I've been doing stuff all day I usually go for the huge pasta with chicken, or the whole pizza, or the big thing of nachos.

[TheFlyingOrc]

It's usually carbs: breads and pasta. But that could just be because I know those foods are filling. During the early part of the day I usually do really well, a small (or no) breakfast, usually a pretty good sized lunch (sushi or something like that). But when it comes to dinner if I've been doing stuff all day I usually go for the huge pasta with chicken, or the whole pizza, or the big thing of nachos.

You should do a protein shake in the afternoon, that'll help with the evening hunger a lot.

[pronounconnoun]

It's usually carbs: breads and pasta. But that could just be because I know those foods are filling. During the early part of the day I usually do really well, a small (or no) breakfast, usually a pretty good sized lunch (sushi or something like that). But when it comes to dinner if I've been doing stuff all day I usually go for the huge pasta with chicken, or the whole pizza, or the big thing of nachos.

You can try breaking that dinner up into two separate meals first and only eating half of it. When your body is used to that amount of food, you'll probably find it easier to fill yourself up with foods that are not as hearty.

You should do a protein shake in the afternoon, that'll help with the evening hunger a lot.

Also, fruit and nuts. Try eating them more consistently throughout the day instead of planning on large meals.

[Superman's Dead]

Thanks for the ideas guys...I'm gonna clean my fridge out today and go shopping. Pick up a blender, healthier foods...

I also really need to stop drinking beer as a nightcap. I refuse to drink light beer, and that probably isn't helping either.

[pronounconnoun]

I refuse to drink light beer,

A man with principle. I can dig that.

[Karak]

It's usually carbs: breads and pasta. But that could just be because I know those foods are filling. During the early part of the day I usually do really well, a small (or no) breakfast, usually a pretty good sized lunch (sushi or something like that). But when it comes to dinner if I've been doing stuff all day I usually go for the huge pasta with chicken, or the whole pizza, or the big thing of nachos.

Hmmm. Ok so sounds like a complex carb desire. Is it always pasta or mixed items like nachos? You might try to find if its a specific thing such as
-grain
-salt
-suger

I find that those cravings, though I always assumed were sugar, were actually salt. I was losing a great deal during workouts and my body knew that those cravings would up my sodium. So I tried 3 saltines and it instantly went away. I would try to find out the specific thing. Most cravings that aren't mental have a basic mineral or vitamin drive behind them.

Also you could try changing things around of course but at the same time you may just want to find out if you are simply hitting the level to where you are burning a good deal and your body is giving you signs that you need more.

That's when fiber can help be a filling.

EDIT:
Also a very strange thing works for me. If I get a craving I know I will eat something pretty bland just to get rid of the craving. So say its fiber I will eat a small cup of beans with NOTHING on them. Most people couldn't handle that. But I am curbing the craving only, it takes 45 seconds to eat, and doesn't add much else. Is it great...fuck no. But its better than satisfying the craving with a 800 calorie snack.

[Superman's Dead]

Hmm...it's probably the salt and the grain, yeah. I'll keep that in mind and buy myself some saltines. That way I won't binge on chips.

I think part of the problem is that my kitchen sucks so bad. It has literally no counter space, the stove is essentially a gas-leaking death trap, and it's lit like a seventies horror movie. So thinking about taking the time to cook stuff always feels like more work than it's worth.

What's some good fiber snacks? Like...uh...curtains?

[Karak]

Hmm...it's probably the salt and the grain, yeah. I'll keep that in mind and buy myself some saltines. That way I won't binge on chips.

I think part of the problem is that my kitchen sucks so bad. It has literally no counter space, the stove is essentially a gas-leaking death trap, and it's lit like a seventies horror movie. So thinking about taking the time to cook stuff always feels like more work than it's worth.

What's some good fiber snacks? Like...uh...curtains?

Try each one a bit. Sodium, especially on diets, is important and many people working out hard and intense(p90x) experience this kind of thing. And the particular craving for sodium can be very confusing as it masquerades in various ways. It totally could not be that, but its a good place to start.

Fiber is found in so many things man its hard to suggest one. Here is a starting link-beware that things that have fiber have other things(calories) so you need to pick and choose.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/high-fiber-foods/NU00582

[carnage11]

You should do a protein shake in the afternoon, that'll help with the evening hunger a lot.

This right here. I used to be the same way Supes. I went and got a muscle building protein shake mix. I drink it late afternoon (after my workout) and it fills me up until dinner time. It also gives me lots of energy, and when dinner time comes I'm not completely famished. You also want to make sure you eat breakfast, even if it's something small. Make sure to snack through out the day. Not on garbage though, fruits, veggies with some ranch, or almonds make a good snack. PB&J or Tuna on wheat crackers. Eat little, often. This helps to speed up your metabolism to lose unwanted fat. It also helps to keep you full and happy through the day and gives you plenty of energy. The biggest mistake most people make is to eat too few meals throughout the day and then gorge themselves for dinner. That's bad because dinner is the last meal and you go to sleep afterward.

[Superman's Dead]

Oh, yeah, I, uh...I put salt on everything. Like, a lot of salt. A lot.

When I feel the hunger I mostly want my stomach full, and that's why I go for the pasta instead of the tuna melt or the salad. It just feels more likely to get me full.

I think I'll start munching on bananas at work and making smoothies there while I have the chance. Between that, trying to eat dinners that aren't all bread and cheese, and cutting down on the alcohol, I think I have something.

[Karak]

Oh, yeah, I, uh...I put salt on everything. Like, a lot of salt. A lot.

When I feel the hunger I mostly want my stomach full, and that's why I go for the pasta instead of the tuna melt or the salad. It just feels more likely to get me full.

I think I'll start munching on bananas at work and making smoothies there while I have the chance. Between that, trying to eat dinners that aren't all bread and cheese, and cutting down on the alcohol, I think I have something.

Sounds good. Try it all out and see what sticks. Nothing works for everyone so whatever ends up working for you is the right way to do it.

[Purple Santa]

EDIT:
Also a very strange thing works for me. If I get a craving I know I will eat something pretty bland just to get rid of the craving. So say its fiber I will eat a small cup of beans with NOTHING on them. Most people couldn't handle that. But I am curbing the craving only, it takes 45 seconds to eat, and doesn't add much else. Is it great...fuck no. But its better than satisfying the craving with a 800 calorie snack.



http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/high-fiber-foods/NU00582

This is why I love this man. Madder than a hatter he might be...but the man knows what he's talking about.

[Superman's Dead]

Okay. Day two of eating right.

I've been thinking a lot about responsibility lately...that, combined with the wanting to look super awesome in the summer time and thinking I should probably cut back on the alcohol, is making this pretty easy. I'm settling into a routine: eggs over medium and toast for breakfast, with fruit if I'm still hungry. Quesadillas with fancy low carb tortillas and a protein shake for lunch. Nuts/crackers to snack on if I get hungry before work. Once I get hungry at work I make a smoothie with bananas and strawberries instead of just eating the dinner rolls all day. And I'll bring home either a tuna melt and fruit or chicken caesar salad for dinner, and it's nuts and crackers if I'm hungry before bed. One beer a night if that, one night a week to really go to town at the bar, which will be good for my wallet too.

Thanks for the suggestions guys. Now let's see if I can learn to cook these fucking eggs better over the next few weeks, because I am inept.

[carnage11]

Sounds like you got a pretty good plan goin' there bro. Good job! I'll be interested to see some results from you this summer. Make sure you're getting some weight training in there if you want to utilize that protein.

[Superman's Dead]

Yeah, thanks to Karak I'm doing the P90 workout but haven't really seen big results because I just wasn't eating right...I'm definitely more toned than I was in my upper and lower body, but the middle is still blah. I'm gonna get some heavier weights soon, also.

[Karak]

Yeah, thanks to Karak I'm doing the P90 workout but haven't really seen big results because I just wasn't eating right...I'm definitely more toned than I was in my upper and lower body, but the middle is still blah. I'm gonna get some heavier weights soon, also.

Ya sadly anything in the world will not work if you don't have diet in some kind of control. Sounds like you have got that back.

How hard on a scale of 1-10 do you think you are pushing yourself on p90x?
Per workout I mean.

[Karak]

So I changed up my workout.

Maxes and bulk lifting Monday-Wed-Thur
Martial arts Tues-Thursday for myself. Most days for students.

But I began some BRUTAL new rep workouts.
Basically-
2000 Side kicks per leg every other day
2000 Jabs per hand every 3rd day(shoulders can get damaged easy if your bulking and doing boxing and not taking...uhm...semi questionable chemicals)
Dips 400 per day

300 situps each day
300 pushups each day

So far its working great. My hips are killing me from the kicks but seperating them into groups of 40 a leg and alternating worked nicely.

So far some days get up in the 2 hour workout length period but man the jump is fucking insane so quick. I love the human bodies ability to bounce back and throw muscle where it is needed.

[Superman's Dead]

I'm not doing the x...just the good old P90. Maybe I'll do the x next?
Probably a 5 for the sculpt days, an 8 for the sweat. Like I said, I need new weights because I can do them no problem now

[Karak]

I'm not doing the x...just the good old P90. Maybe I'll do the x next?
Probably a 5 for the sculpt days, an 8 for the sweat. Like I said, I need new weights because I can do them no problem now

Gotcha. Might want to up to X. Normally an X on a product is nothing more than hype but p90x is insane compared to p90. But if you can't the weights should easily make sure your pressing it each day for sure. Keep it up man. That's awesome you are doing it.

[TheFlyingOrc]

ARGH pinched my blasted elbows doing tricep exercises again. Here goes another 3 weeks where I can't actually challenge my muscles because my elbows are busted. :(

[Camel]

A few thoughts:

1) I've finally FINALLY started working out on a regular basis again. Now that I am a somewhat established teacher and don't have to spend a ton of time at home preparing for the next day, I really don't have an excuse anymore to be such a slug. I never really got super overweight, but I felt terribly out of shape and it feels great to get going again.

2) I absolutely HATE running, which is nuts, because I used to love it. I ran pretty much every day in college and always thought it was a great way to work out and think things over at the same time. Part of my problem is that I have flat feet and running tends to be hard on my knees, and part of it an allergies/asthma thing that makes it hard for me to run when it's really hot or cold outside, but all the same I just can't stand running anymore.

It's almost irritating me just thinking about it. Running! BLARGH! I've been doing a lot of jump rope and P90 cardio and I vastly prefer it.

I've also been doing the p90 Ab Ripper exercises. Only 100 reps right now, but I would like to move on to 200 in about a month or so. I have always loved the sore feeling you get from a good ab workout.

Anyways, just wanted to check back in to the thread since it's been forever since I commented here. My goal is to lose about 15-20 lbs, which should put me back around my high school weight of 180. Woo!

Also, Karak....2000 sidekicks every other day is insane. INSANE! I do about 50 and I feel terrible.

[carnage11]

I hate AbRipperX. I dread doing it every time and it's only 20 minutes long. I also have the issue with asthma and allergies. I try to mix in some speed walking and jogging with my running, that way it doesn't bother me as much. I really only have problems if I straight up sprint for more than a minute or so. If you have bad knees or joint pain, try taking a Glucosamine and Chondroitin vitamin every day. You'll find after a few months that it will help your joints. At least it did for me. My elbow used to pop and crack every time I did push ups, but it doesn't do it anymore and I've been taking the vitamin for around 3 months now.

[Karak]

A few thoughts:

2) I absolutely HATE running, which is nuts, because I used to love it. I ran pretty much every day in college and always thought it was a great way to work out and think things over at the same time. Part of my problem is that I have flat feet and running tends to be hard on my knees, and part of it an allergies/asthma thing that makes it hard for me to run when it's really hot or cold outside, but all the same I just can't stand running anymore.

Also, Karak....2000 sidekicks every other day is insane. INSANE! I do about 50 and I feel terrible.

Thanks for coming back!
As stated above me, some supps should help for running.
As for flat feet are their shoes you can get to repair a bit of that?
For me, if I have stopped running, I begin with a hump style run. A NO bouncing run almost shuffle style run to keep my knees safe but getting worked. I do that for a month to get lungs back. Then start removing 1 minute from each run. So if it took me 45 minutes I go the same distance in 44 for 2 runs then 43 for 2. If you have done the month prep you can make those minute jumps without really hating life.

As for kicks. Luckily, even if I go from thin to fat to thin and back again I always do martial arts so thankfully its just repetition...
wait...no I admit now...it fucking sucks:( :)

[Karak]

ARGH pinched my blasted elbows doing tricep exercises again. Here goes another 3 weeks where I can't actually challenge my muscles because my elbows are busted. :(

I just reread this. 3 weeks? Really? That sucks.

[TheFlyingOrc]

I just reread this. 3 weeks? Really? That sucks.

Well, I can do some stuff, but last time this happened it took me most of 2 months because I kept hurting them every time I went to the gym. I'm going to be more conservative this time.

AND QUIT DOING THAT STUPID TRICEP EXERCISE THAT KEEPS MAKING THIS HAPPEN ARGH WHY AM I SO DUMB

Also, I'm down 28.5 pounds as of Monday evening, probably over 30 now. Optifast is magic.

[Karak]

Well, I can do some stuff, but last time this happened it took me most of 2 months because I kept hurting them every time I went to the gym. I'm going to be more conservative this time.

AND QUIT DOING THAT STUPID TRICEP EXERCISE THAT KEEPS MAKING THIS HAPPEN ARGH WHY AM I SO DUMB

Also, I'm down 28.5 pounds as of Monday evening, probably over 30 now. Optifast is magic.

Hmmm...have you thought(I am sure you have but just asking) about elbow supporters? Tricep exercises can FUCK up your elbows for sure.


Good fucking job on the Optifast. Really..that is some stellar shit right there.

[TheFlyingOrc]

Hmmm...have you thought(I am sure you have but just asking) about elbow supporters? Tricep exercises can FUCK up your elbows for sure.


Good fucking job on the Optifast. Really..that is some stellar shit right there.

As of Monday, I have now lost 38.5 lbs, and my wife has lost 31.5 pounds.

70 pounds in 7 weeks. Also, we changed her program up a bit, so hopefully she'll lose more consistently now. She's got a long way to go, and needs those high numbers to be able to make it through.

As for me, I started at 268, and I'm currently at 230. I weigh approximately what I did when my wife and I started dating in 2004. Within 3 weeks, I should be lighter than I was when I got to college. With a little work, I can easily get down to my senior year of high school. Hooray fitness.

[Borthcollective]

Congrats Orc. I've been walking again for the last month. Hopefully once I get a little more used to eating better the pounds will start flying off. I do actually weigh less now than when I graduated high school and that's sad because now is 365.

[TheFlyingOrc]

Congrats Orc. I've been walking again for the last month. Hopefully once I get a little more used to eating better the pounds will start flying off. I do actually weigh less now than when I graduated high school and that's sad because now is 365.

I really recommend seeing if you can find an Optifast-providing doctor if you can afford it. You could very realistically be where I am in 7-8 months. I know that sounds like forever, but imagine how different your life would be.

[Karak]

As of Monday, I have now lost 38.5 lbs, and my wife has lost 31.5 pounds.

70 pounds in 7 weeks. Also, we changed her program up a bit, so hopefully she'll lose more consistently now. She's got a long way to go, and needs those high numbers to be able to make it through.

As for me, I started at 268, and I'm currently at 230. I weigh approximately what I did when my wife and I started dating in 2004. Within 3 weeks, I should be lighter than I was when I got to college. With a little work, I can easily get down to my senior year of high school. Hooray fitness.

Very very good sir. This is nothing but good news and is something that I just have to give kudo's for.

Congrats seriously!

[TheKeck]

Seems like I'm starting to plateau around 170 lbs (which constitutes about 32 lbs lost). I can live with that. :)

[TheFlyingOrc]

Seems like I'm starting to plateau around 170 lbs (which constitutes about 32 lbs lost). I can live with that. :)

How tall are you? You'd have to be pretty short for that not to be a healthy weight.

[TheKeck]

How tall are you? You'd have to be pretty short for that not to be a healthy weight.
I'm 6'1", and I absolutely consider it to be a healthy weight. Hence saying that I can live with it, (which was a purposeful understatement, as indicated by the smiley.) ;)

[Bone]

Tricksy tall hobbit.

[TheFlyingOrc]

I'm 6'1", and I absolutely consider it to be a healthy weight. Hence saying that I can live with it, (which was a purposeful understatement, as indicated by the smiley.) ;)

The smiley also could have indicated "And as I'm lazy, that's good enough" :)

Good for you, man - but yeah, it's really doubtful you want to be much under that. I'm 6'1" and trying to get somewhere in between 215 and 200.

[TheKeck]

The smiley also could have indicated "And as I'm lazy, that's good enough" :)

Sure sure, I was just explaining myself, not saying you should have read my mind. :)

[resikel]

I found this:

http://media.fukung.net/images/34351/af2cff9a1135e0fd1223959ba5ef1706.gif

I've ran in the past, not with any serious training nor concrete planning.

If I can do 30 minutes of continuous running that would be awesome. Gonna give this a try.

Five weeks in on this running chart and I'm on pace. The only thing I've deviated from is that I run everyday, barring bad weather. So out of the last 27 days, I've ran 24 of them.

By this Sunday I'll be running my first continuous 21 minutes, which should be about 2 miles with my pacing.

[Purple Santa]

Five weeks in on this running chart and I'm on pace. The only thing I've deviated from is that I run everyday, barring bad weather. So out of the last 27 days, I've ran 24 of them.

By this Sunday I'll be running my first continuous 21 minutes, which should be about 2 miles with my pacing.

I love that chart. I did something similar when I was running only it was on a treadmill (easier on my knees than outdoors). I eventually was running over an hour doing 5 miles.

[Abyssion]

I'll have to try out that chart.

The family picked up a new scale over the weekend (the old one was older than me...), and to my surprise the old one must've added 5-7 pounds. I always weighed in at 170-173 but then I got on the new scale and it says I weigh 165ish. I haven't really changed up my diet and if anything I have been running slightly less on my treadmill. It's a slight confidence boost, which may sound kind of silly.

[Superman's Dead]

I have been trying to get a schedule and stick to it, but things have been in flux lately. I very very suddenly got a new job that works alternately long hours and no hours. It's very labor intensive so I am famished.

In short, I do not know how my body is going to react to a big ol' change in lifestyle. I hope the answer is 'awesomely'.

[Purple Santa]

I'll have to try out that chart.

The family picked up a new scale over the weekend (the old one was older than me...), and to my surprise the old one must've added 5-7 pounds. I always weighed in at 170-173 but then I got on the new scale and it says I weigh 165ish. I haven't really changed up my diet and if anything I have been running slightly less on my treadmill. It's a slight confidence boost, which may sound kind of silly.
I wish to own a magic scale.


In short, I do not know how my body is going to react to a big ol' change in lifestyle. I hope the answer is 'awesomely'.

You do know that mind and body are not mutually exclusive right? They actually kinda work together? ;)

[TheFlyingOrc]

42.5 pounds lost, according to my weight loss doc. This morning, I weighed myself at 220 (my scale is not consistent) - and I have seen that bad boy register 270. I am 50 pounds down from my heaviest. Optifast is magic.

I have 4 weeks on the program left, and 11.5 pounds to lose (Doctor's scale puts me at 226.5). I suspect I'm going to go past my original goal of 215 and plunge on to 210, maybe lower. I'm starting to just plain feel great physically, and you would not believe how much easier chin-ups are.

Also, I'm hot (sorta). :)

[TheKeck]

Five weeks in on this running chart and I'm on pace. The only thing I've deviated from is that I run everyday, barring bad weather. So out of the last 27 days, I've ran 24 of them.

By this Sunday I'll be running my first continuous 21 minutes, which should be about 2 miles with my pacing.
Seems similar (or identical?) to the "couch potato to 5k" program. Worked well for my wife and sister.

[Generation ABXY]

Also, I'm hot (sorta). :)

Time to break it off with the wife, and start sowing your wild oats, again! ;)

Also, congrats on your success, TFO.

[TheFlyingOrc]

Time to break it off with the wife, and start sowing your wild oats, again! ;)

Also, congrats on your success, TFO.

In related news my wife seems to want more sex lately. I attribute this to my increased hotness and her feeling better due to losing 35 lbs herself. She's got a long way to go, but I'm very proud of her.

[Generation ABXY]

In related news my wife seems to want more sex lately.

Always good... um, well, unless it's against your will, I suppose.

[Karak]

Hey...I thought I understood that chart but either way you figure it...mathematically and in terms of its order it seems off. The x8 days...why don't they just say 8 in the walking sections instead of 1 or are you alternating and if so, you NEVER start with jogging first...ever.

Are they saying to jog first then walk? Which is actually backwards but ignoring that, are they saying to do those two then recycle it back to the starting?

Sorry I just am thinking of getting my wife to try this, she doesn't like my way of training her, but I want to understand it and with the jogging listed first each time and with the weirdness of the display I don't think I would be able to describe it to her without having some discussion around its planning.

Can someone walk me through the 1st week EXACTLY as it shows above then the 4th week to show the difference?

Appreciate it. I think this sounds good but the inconsistency make me worry.

[resikel]

Hey...I thought I understood that chart but either way you figure it...mathematically and in terms of its order it seems off. The x8 days...why don't they just say 8 in the walking sections instead of 1 or are you alternating and if so, you NEVER start with jogging first...ever.

Are they saying to jog first then walk? Which is actually backwards but ignoring that, are they saying to do those two then recycle it back to the starting?

Sorry I just am thinking of getting my wife to try this, she doesn't like my way of training her, but I want to understand it and with the jogging listed first each time and with the weirdness of the display I don't think I would be able to describe it to her without having some discussion around its planning.

Can someone walk me through the 1st week EXACTLY as it shows above then the 4th week to show the difference?

Appreciate it. I think this sounds good but the inconsistency make me worry.

x8 means you do that eight times: 1 min run, 1.5 minutes walk, 1 min run, 1.5 minutes walk, 1 min run, 1.5 minutes walk, 1 min run, 1.5 minutes walk, 1 min run, 1.5 minutes walk, 1 min run, 1.5 minutes walk, 1 min run, 1.5 minutes walk, and finally 1 min run, 1.5 minutes walk, totally 20m minutes for that session.

By the fourth week you're just doing that running with no repeats.

And for me , when I looked at the chart I said to myself, "There's no way I can build myself up with just 3 sessions per week!" So I run everyday. And with this fifth week where there's three different running /walking pace, I just break it into something like Monday thru Wednesday run 5,3,5,3,5 then Thursday thru Saturday run 8,5,8 and finally on Sunday, the end of the week, run 21.

I make modification as need be with hopefully achieving the 30 minutes goal.

Also, when I run, I have my iPod Nano with the Nike+ Sport Kit. And I use my phone which has a stopwatch tool.

[Karak]

x8 means you do that eight times: 1 min run, 1.5 minutes walk, 1 min run, 1.5 minutes walk, 1 min run, 1.5 minutes walk, 1 min run, 1.5 minutes walk, 1 min run, 1.5 minutes walk, 1 min run, 1.5 minutes walk, 1 min run, 1.5 minutes walk, and finally 1 min run, 1.5 minutes walk, totally 20m minutes for that session.

By the fourth week you're just doing that running with no repeats.

And for me , when I looked at the chart I said to myself, "There's no way I can build myself up with just 3 sessions per week!" So I run everyday. And with this fifth week where there's three different running /walking pace, I just break it into something like Monday thru Wednesday run 5,3,5,3,5 then Thursday thru Saturday run 8,5,8 and finally on Sunday, the end of the week, run 21.

I make modification as need be with hopefully achieving the 30 minutes goal.

Ok thanks, thats what I figured but seeing them suggest running before walking is so against everything I have ever read, watched, personally experienced, I wanted to make sure I wasn't missing other stuff. I will see what my wife thinks. She can't run long distance but wants to be able to and my way of training is WAY too strict for her so this may work.

[TheFlyingOrc]

Ok thanks, thats what I figured but seeing them suggest running before walking is so against everything I have ever read, watched, personally experienced, I wanted to make sure I wasn't missing other stuff. I will see what my wife thinks. She can't run long distance but wants to be able to and my way of training is WAY too strict for her so this may work.

Just walk a few laps before you start. The chart is what you should do "once you begin running".

[Superman's Dead]

You do know that mind and body are not mutually exclusive right? They actually kinda work together? ;)

Yeah, but look at it this way: now my mind is energized and active for more hours during the day, instead of leaning on a counter and delivering food by muscle memory. I'm so much happier doing this, and will no longer have an unlimited supply of fatty foods from working in a restaurant. Win-win all around. ;)

[resikel]

Ok thanks, thats what I figured but seeing them suggest running before walking is so against everything I have ever read, watched, personally experienced, I wanted to make sure I wasn't missing other stuff. I will see what my wife thinks. She can't run long distance but wants to be able to and my way of training is WAY too strict for her so this may work.

When the time is right, have her commit to a 5K (It's only 3.1 miles) run. That way it gives her a incentive/goal/pressure. And running with a large amount of people is a totally different experience than running alone.

[Karak]

When the time is right, have her commit to a 5K (It's only 3.1 miles) run. That way it gives her a incentive/goal/pressure. And running with a large amount of people is a totally different experience than running alone.

Uh...ya no...
That would not work with her.

Very unique person. But the chart will at least be something we will see. Nothing else has worked.

[Karak]

Just walk a few laps before you start. The chart is what you should do "once you begin running".

Ya I told her that I must have not copy pasted it right and that's what I didn't copy, was the part about walking first ;)

[bapenguin]

After my great stint 2 years ago losing weight I relapsed a bit gaining about 10 of the 40 pounds i lost back.

I'm doing things a bit different this time, instead of having a goal to lose weight, I'm concentrating on getting fit. Hopefully the weight comes with it. I'm about 210 right now - would like to be 190 eventually. Hopefully by the end of the summer. I joined a mens soccer league, so hopefully it helps.

[Scaryfaced]

While I've made this resolution several times over the past few months, maybe posting about it will give me some accountability.

So I badly need to lose weight. I've been avoiding weighing myself lately and am pretty dismayed at what I just read. I'm now hovering close to 250 pounds, which is the heaviest I've ever been. 240 was my max, which was when I decided to start losing weight in High School. Now I've blown past that mark and my waist line continues to expand. I'm greatly disappointed in myself, honestly. I was a good 25 pounds lighter some 6 months ago, and even then I had planned to diet. Then I spent 6 months avoiding the humidity in Atlanta, drinking massive amounts of beer and consuming as much fried pub food as possible.

While I'd like to feel healthier, my main concern is that I think it's effecting my love life. Even though I've never been particularly in shape, I've always had enough charm to overcome my image. Lately, my confidence has taken a dive and I'm just not feeling the kind of attraction I used to get out of the girls in my classes. Considering I'm in college to become a teacher and one of only 3 guys in class, I should be able to swing something out of them.

My goal weight is 210, though in a dream world, 190 would be perfect for my 6 foot, wide frame. I started riding my bike for a half hour every day, but quit when I went on vacation. I'm going to start doing that again. I suppose I know how to do this, I've lost a considerable amount of weight before, but would love to hear any tips and tricks to get started from some of you who've already lost so much.

[resikel]

Uh...ya no...
That would not work with her.

Very unique person. But the chart will at least be something we will see. Nothing else has worked.

I think you should wear this shirt around the house: ;)

http://www.t-shirtking.com/tshirt-images/Rocky-Drago-I-Must-Break-You-4665.jpg

[Purple Santa]

While I've made this resolution several times over the past few months, maybe posting about it will give me some accountability.

So I badly need to lose weight. I've been avoiding weighing myself lately and am pretty dismayed at what I just read. I'm now hovering close to 250 pounds, which is the heaviest I've ever been. 240 was my max, which was when I decided to start losing weight in High School. Now I've blown past that mark and my waist line continues to expand. I'm greatly disappointed in myself, honestly. I was a good 25 pounds lighter some 6 months ago, and even then I had planned to diet. Then I spent 6 months avoiding the humidity in Atlanta, drinking massive amounts of beer and consuming as much fried pub food as possible.

While I'd like to feel healthier, my main concern is that I think it's effecting my love life. Even though I've never been particularly in shape, I've always had enough charm to overcome my image. Lately, my confidence has taken a dive and I'm just not feeling the kind of attraction I used to get out of the girls in my classes. Considering I'm in college to become a teacher and one of only 3 guys in class, I should be able to swing something out of them.

My goal weight is 210, though in a dream world, 190 would be perfect for my 6 foot, wide frame. I started riding my bike for a half hour every day, but quit when I went on vacation. I'm going to start doing that again. I suppose I know how to do this, I've lost a considerable amount of weight before, but would love to hear any tips and tricks to get started from some of you who've already lost so much.

The most important part trying to lose and keep off the weight is your own thoughts about yourself. There are going to be good days and their will be days you wish you had the day back to do again. Acceptance might seem silly but understanding this has helped me greatly in finally losing/keeping the weight off. Basically, start off trying not to think of yesterday think of today or the day you are starting to be healthier. Look forward not back. And remember those days that you feel you failed, you didn't. Mistakes are part of any learning experience. Try to take in why you had the bad day and use it to have less days like that.

As for more concrete ideas on how to...start slow. It's easy to throw everything that is in your refrigerator, eat perfect for two days then your body feels the effects. I'd suggest seeing your doctor for how many calories he suggests you need to eat to begin losing weight. I know counting calories sucks but it's probably the easiest way to know how much is going into your body and what is and how to adjust. If you don't like calorie counting, I suggest joining weight watchers. They are a great organization and have great tips on how to lose and keep the weight off. However you choose to begin, don't expect to eat perfectly. Allow yourself to ease into the healthy eating. If you for the first week or two 80% ate healthier than that is a great start. Goals are important but they have to be realistic and attainable if they are to be met. We set up ourselves for failure quite easily not realizing sometimes we can drown in our own goals.

Know your own eating habits. Some like to eat three meals others like smaller meals. Some like myself like to "graze" eat but I make sure what i'm grazing is healthy choices. My suggestion for healthier choices, wean yourself off of any sugar drinks. Drink lots of water even if you must flavor it with zero calorie drink packets. Raw vegetables can be hard to eat but I often will eat them with hot sauce, oil and vinegar, sometimes I will make onion dip (measure it out though). Do you cook? It helps to have some level of cooking skills. You don't need to be a gourmet chef just enough to boil water and saute something. If you cook for yourself, you know what you are eating and how much. I can suggest recipes and other tips if you want. You can PM if you feel more comfortable that way. Popcorn. Another great food that saves me. Buy popcorn kernels adn make your own popcorn. Only 80 calories for three cups. Amazon sells some cheap popcorn makers. I use one that uses oil but it's worth it.

Last but not least, exercise. Start slow if you haven't been exercising. Find something you like even if it is walking around your neighborhood. Exercise should be something that gets your heart pumping, three days a week or more and at least a half hour.

This is just off the top of my head. I have more once I can organize my thoughts if you want/need.

Good luck and post on your progress.

[evilgoodwin]

She can only listen to Survivor, too. It'll motivate her. Probably. Doubtful. Maybe.

[Karak]

I think you should wear this shirt around the house: ;)

http://www.t-shirtking.com/tshirt-images/Rocky-Drago-I-Must-Break-You-4665.jpg

Indeed:)
She is squirrely in what works for her. Sometimes its one kind of reinforcement, sometimes its another. I have difficulty discovering what it is that consistently motivates her, because she is so random that trying to jump from motivation to motivation would be a full time job.

[resikel]

So today was the big day for me, to run 21 continuous minutes. I'll be honest; I was nervous. Going from 8 minutes to 21 minutes is a big leap. What were they thinking?!?

So, last night, I prepare myself by carbing up...a lot (In hinge sight I ate more than I should have). And I made sure I drank enough fluid.

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

The morning weather is perfect, I'm ready to run, I set my Nike+ to 21 minutes. Click. Run.

"5 minutes..." the voice said in my earphone. No problem; I've been at this point before.

"Half-way point..." the voice said again. 10 1/2 minutes I'm feeling good.

"6 minutes left..." the voice said. At this point I knew I can go the distant.

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

This was a milestone. I went from unsure to complete confidence that I'll finish this training with the intended target. And this is why they put it in at this spot...the big hump that will push you to the end.

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

Day 1 I was doing 1 1/2 minutes. At Day 32 I just finished 21 minutes.

I feel good right now.

http://www.ieatrobots.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/nike-04102011.jpg

[Suave Peanut]

I want in.

I worked at a fast-food place a few years ago and still haven't lost the 30 lbs (14 kg) that I gained from eating there ten times a week.

This, from 2 1/2 years ago, was my last (and only) post in this thread.

During most of that time I did nothing, but at the beginning of 2010 I resolved to eat healthier and that small change started working for me. For a few months I stuck to a pescetarian diet (I don't usually eat red meat anyway, so it wasn't too difficult) which helped me get down 15 lbs before the summer. I went back to my old ways for a while and regained a few, but I got my act together in the fall with some dietary changes combined with walking a few miles every week.

I'm now down a total of 30 lbs with about a dozen more to get to my target, which is what I weighed in 2004 before college and working at Chick-fil-A.

So, getting close! I'll be skimming back over this thread for some general advice.

[bapenguin]

Has anyone ever gained 7 pounds in one day? I have no idea what happened. I was 210 yesterday and today was 217. My wife weighed herself on the same scale and she remained the same.

The weird thing is, yesterday I ate very little. Probably 1600-1800 calories.

I'm extremely sore from soccer over the weekend, so I thought maybe it was muscle related, body retaining water to try to repair them or something.

[carnage11]

Has anyone ever gained 7 pounds in one day? I have no idea what happened. I was 210 yesterday and today was 217. My wife weighed herself on the same scale and she remained the same.

The weird thing is, yesterday I ate very little. Probably 1600-1800 calories.

I'm extremely sore from soccer over the weekend, so I thought maybe it was muscle related, body retaining water to try to repair them or something.

You can easily gain 7-10 lbs of water weight in a day.

[Bone]

Probably just a chestburster.

[pronounconnoun]

Has anyone ever gained 7 pounds in one day? I have no idea what happened. I was 210 yesterday and today was 217. My wife weighed herself on the same scale and she remained the same.

The weird thing is, yesterday I ate very little. Probably 1600-1800 calories.

I'm extremely sore from soccer over the weekend, so I thought maybe it was muscle related, body retaining water to try to repair them or something.

I too am lowering the amount I eat per day. After maintaining my 40 lb weight loss, I gained about ten or so back. I'm trying to ease myself back into the habit of eating less, but gradually.

It might be your body reacting to the sudden change in energy intake and instead of processing it normally, it is storing it. It should fix itself over the next few days.

Also: Yeah, what he said. Water does that.

Probably just a chestburster.

Har har har. Considering this conversation for my sig.

[resikel]

Has anyone ever gained 7 pounds in one day? I have no idea what happened. I was 210 yesterday and today was 217. My wife weighed herself on the same scale and she remained the same.

The weird thing is, yesterday I ate very little. Probably 1600-1800 calories.

I'm extremely sore from soccer over the weekend, so I thought maybe it was muscle related, body retaining water to try to repair them or something.

Your body weight will fluctuate throughout the day depending on your activity. It is recommended that you weigh yourself in the morning right when you wake up.

Here's an overview of water retention:

"It is natural to retain water from time to time. Extreme heat, dehydration, high concentrations of sodium and premenstrual symptoms can all cause water retention. Sometimes the retention is hardly detectable and other times it is visually noticeable. Some simple steps can help reduce water retention."

http://www.livestrong.com/article/18657-reduce-water-retention/

[Serapth]

So I massively curbed my beer intake, dropping about 3k calories a week from my diet, and I'm now down to 6'2 210lbs. Goal is about 200, then a bit of refinement ( gut to pecs ).

Nicest side effect, and its part beer and part weightloss, but almost zero heartburn or acid reflux!

I'm only 15 pounds lower than what I've been these last 3 years, but damn does it make a difference!

Granted I'm on vacation right now, so might have a bit of a relapse. That said, I came down with strep and a serious build up of fluid in my jaw, making eating, drinking and even breathing painful, so these last 3 days I've probably dropped weight!


Now that I've been treated and feel a ton better, I still need to keep alcohol consumption to a minimum to work best with the antibiotics and steroids I'm on. That said, after hearing so many rumours, I'm tempted to switch back to the Vicodin I was prescribed and pound a few drinks... I am on vacation after all!

[TheFlyingOrc]

I've now lost 46 in 9 weeks, down to 223 from 269. Target is 215. 3 weeks of Optifast left, and I should easy get down to 212 or so. Might try to keep doing some work to get down closer to 200 - at that point, I'll be freakishly sexy hot.

[Purple Santa]

I'm only 15 pounds lower than what I've been these last 3 years, but damn does it make a difference!


I'll never forget the first time I saw a pic of what 20 lbs of body fat looked like. An understatement to say it was disgusting.

15lbs doesn't seem like a lot but it's quite a bit of weight especially since that is more than half your goal to lose. As for the heartburn and being better...It's difficult to read the heartburn threads that pop up since the #1 reduction to most cause of heartburn/acid reflux is to watch your diet, lose weight and some exercise.

Great to read another person doing well with their weigh management.

[pronounconnoun]

I've now lost 46 in 9 weeks, down to 223 from 269. Target is 215. 3 weeks of Optifast left, and I should easy get down to 212 or so. Might try to keep doing some work to get down closer to 200 - at that point, I'll be freakishly sexy hot.

Wow, congrats. That's a huge goal in itself. The last leg is the hardest. It's as if the body becomes immune to your trickery (exercise).

Good luck on your quest for freaky sex hot.

[bapenguin]

Your body weight will fluctuate throughout the day depending on your activity. It is recommended that you weigh yourself in the morning right when you wake up.

Yup, I weigh myself immediately after I wake up and do the morning pee. That's why I can't figure out how I jumped 7 pounds - I'm always really consistent.

I guess we'll see over the next few days.

So we got either water...or a chest burster.

[Karak]

Yup, I weigh myself immediately after I wake up and do the morning pee. That's why I can't figure out how I jumped 7 pounds - I'm always really consistent.

I guess we'll see over the next few days.

So we got either water...or a chest burster.

Well...gaining water weight "easily"...is a unique word in this particular instance. It is possible, however, if your in normal mode, you shouldn't be even if you did have a ton of salt. The body is made to remove excess water weight to a limit and if you gained 7 pounds of water weight you may want to keep an eye on it.

When I was fluctuating a good deal in daily weight i let it go for about 6 months then went into the doctor and he had a fit. Heart issues, which even a 21 year old kid can have, can show up in signs like that, so can many things. If it happens 1 time or 2 and its after a massive pizza and say a different weigh in time. It is probably ok. But if you find the scale going up and down a giant amount from day to day it may be something to put some attention to even if you find out it is one particular food your having difficulty digesting. Which happens to me. I have issues with some types of complex carbs and it actually causes some weight gain directly from the good just not passing through me as fast. Easiest thing to call it would be a "unique" food allergy.

Even if it is to buy another scale:)

[Serapth]

So I just got back from a Florida/Mexico cruise and the 10lbs I lost recently..... its back! Amazing what two weeks of 24/7 free food and ready booze will do to you!


That and I have to say, American cruisers are a fat lot. Really really really fat. I would have guessed the average person was at least 30 lbs over weight, while 10-20% were dangerously obese, like easily 100+ lbs over weight. These was especially true with black and Hispanics. It was really weird, as I don't know if its due to being a cruise, the number of people being from Florida or what it was, but the weight difference was shocking.

[Purple Santa]

It was really weird, as I don't know if its due to being a cruise, the number of people being from Florida or what it was, but the weight difference was shocking.

I would say your first guess would be closer to a reason why. Cruises as you found out are a 24/7 buffet of food and alcohol. It's not a stretch to think those who have weigh management issues wouldn't be attracted to eating and drinking all day on a vacation.

[Bone]

Yeah, my Christmas cruise to Cozumel destroyed all of my weight loss efforts. Re-gained 10 pounds and have been working it off since. Really, what else is there to do on the ship but eat great food and drink a lot? Every activity (gambling, comedy shows, live music) comes back around to this.

[BigJonno]

I really need to buy a set of scales. I know that I've lost weight, I just want to know how much and to be able to see the difference week-on-week.

[Karak]

I really need to buy a set of scales. I know that I've lost weight, I just want to know how much and to be able to see the difference week-on-week.

Ya if you do, just weigh yourself maybe 1-2 times a week. So many fluctuation during the week that Sunday to Sunday will most likely show a drop but if you weigh yourself everyday your going to get random times where you end up with weight gain due to water and so forth.

[Serapth]

Yeah, my Christmas cruise to Cozumel destroyed all of my weight loss efforts. Re-gained 10 pounds and have been working it off since. Really, what else is there to do on the ship but eat great food and drink a lot? Every activity (gambling, comedy shows, live music) comes back around to this.

Where did you go? We went to Paradise beach.

[BigJonno]

Ya if you do, just weigh yourself maybe 1-2 times a week. So many fluctuation during the week that Sunday to Sunday will most likely show a drop but if you weigh yourself everyday your going to get random times where you end up with weight gain due to water and so forth.

Don't worry, I'm an old hand at this. I had a very nice set of scales up until last year, just like my nice TV, nice sofas and other nice possessions. Bitter? Nah.

[Bone]

Where did you go? We went to Paradise beach.

To be honest, I didn't get the name of it. The restaurant and bar was much smaller than what Paradise Beach pictures show, but it was a really pretty secluded place on the southwest side. We spent the day there after our tour bus took us to the Mayan ruins.

I could easily spend a week there, but skip the cruise and just go straight to Cozumel next time.

[Serapth]

To be honest, I didn't get the name of it. The restaurant and bar was much smaller than what Paradise Beach pictures show, but it was a really pretty secluded place on the southwest side. We spent the day there after our tour bus took us to the Mayan ruins.

I could easily spend a week there, but skip the cruise and just go straight to Cozumel next time.

Yeah Cozumel was easily the hilite of our trip. We ate at the restaurant at port near where you go for taxis, if you didn't damn you missed out!

[Bone]

There are multiple ports! I think ours was near the southern tip and I could see another big port a few miles northwest of us. Our port had a lot of the expected restaurants (beach franchises) so we had drinks there, but the food highlight was the little restaurant I mentioned in the middle of nowhere. Very authentic interior Mexican food, and some damn fine fish tacos (which I normally hate, plus, fish taco, heh).

[Karak]

Don't worry, I'm an old hand at this. I had a very nice set of scales up until last year, just like my nice TV, nice sofas and other nice possessions. Bitter? Nah.
Ah gotcha. Sorry about that. Its just a warning I through out to most people. I weigh myself every day due to whatever cycle or activity I am training for. But I know that for 98% of people its just not good to do.

Ya a bit bitter hahahahaha

[Purple Santa]

Ah gotcha. Sorry about that. Its just a warning I through out to most people. I weigh myself every day due to whatever cycle or activity I am training for. But I know that for 98% of people its just not good to do.

Ya a bit bitter hahahahaha

I'm part of that 98%. I have OCD traits so looking at the scale...no it becomes a battle to move beyond what the numbers said. Now i'll check in every few weeks, see that i lost weight then just move on until next time.

And hell...i feel bitter for Big J. Sounds a lot like my own divorce story...

[Serapth]

There are multiple ports! I think ours was near the southern tip and I could see another big port a few miles northwest of us. Our port had a lot of the expected restaurants (beach franchises) so we had drinks there, but the food highlight was the little restaurant I mentioned in the middle of nowhere. Very authentic interior Mexican food, and some damn fine fish tacos (which I normally hate, plus, fish taco, heh).

Ah, didnt figure it would have too many cruise capable ports, or port was Puerta Maya (http://www.puertamaya.com/default.aspx). I am not a fan of guacamole, but god damn was theirs good. It appears to be one of those things that is 10x better fresh. Plus Mexican hotsauce kicks the shit out of most other hot sauces.

[Karak]

I'm part of that 98%. I have OCD traits so looking at the scale...no it becomes a battle to move beyond what the numbers said. Now i'll check in every few weeks, see that i lost weight then just move on until next time.

And hell...i feel bitter for Big J. Sounds a lot like my own divorce story...

Ya that's a normal and healthy way of looking at it. I admit I have always been more of believer in cycling weight loss and muscle gain in increments and due to its success I have to see the scale more often than normal. But for almost everyone 1-2 times a week is more than enough.

And scales should just automatically NOT work the week after thanksgiving hahahahaa

[Bone]

Ah, didnt figure it would have too many cruise capable ports, or port was Puerta Maya (http://www.puertamaya.com/default.aspx). I am not a fan of guacamole, but god damn was theirs good. It appears to be one of those things that is 10x better fresh. Plus Mexican hotsauce kicks the shit out of most other hot sauces.
Yes! Guacamole relies entirely on excellent fresh ingredients. Not many, just good avocado, some onions, tomatoes, maybe garlic and cilantro to taste. Really good places will mix it in a stone bowl right in front of you and I could pretty much eat it right out of the bowl.