Travel Health and Fitness - What steps did you take today?

Since some of us are still trying to change our lifestyles to reflect a healthier lifestyle, I thought we could use some encouragement and celebrate our successes by posting what we've done each day to improve our health.

For example, today, I not only packed a healthy lunch (rather than buying fast food), but I also ate said healthy lunch. Considering that I'm usually pretty good at finding a reason not to eat whatever I bring from home, this is good for me! :)

Great thread idea! Way to go on lunch today.

I did 4 miles on the elliptical. Plus instead of buying some candy on my Walmart run I ate an orange from the fruit table at the hotel. And I'm about to go down for another (plus some goldfish from the manager's reception:D).

Mashed cauliflower rather than mashed potatoes for dinner.

Sooooo good! ^

I had a Toastmasters event tonight, and was encouraged to take home leftovers from the refreshments. My options were cheese, pepperoni and crackers, pretzels, cookies, or fresh fruit. I opted for the fresh fruit choice. :)

Great post by the OP! ^ ;)

I have lost 5-6 pounds this week, woohoo! ^ No snacking, light breakfast, salads for lunch, and sensible dinner (think about what I'd like to eat and how much, and then focus on 1) veggies; and 2) cutting portions down a bit). :)

I had the fruit from last night as my snack, and I'm debating if I even want to heat up my Lean Cuisine sandwich for lunch or just save it.

It seems like everyone is doing quite well!

anonplz--5-6 pounds this week? Wow!

anonplz--5-6 pounds this week? Wow!

Well, it's my first week. :D So a lot of that was water retention, and weight loss will slow down about now.

But yeah, I can feel that I'm losing girth and flab. :)

Well, it's my first week. :D So a lot of that was water retention, and weight loss will slow down about now.

But yeah, I can feel that I'm losing girth and flab. :)

I'm not feeling like I'm losing much, if anything, but I do figure that if nothing else, eating fruit is better for my overall health than eating french fries, right?

I'm not feeling like I'm losing much, if anything, but I do figure that if nothing else, eating fruit is better for my overall health than eating french fries, right?

I agree - fruit is unprocessed and full of nutrients, and probably nutrients that haven't even been discovered yet, i.e., you can't get them in a vitamin pill. French fries also probably aren't all bad, but clearly, they are little more than refined carbohydrates, i.e., stripped of much of nutritious value (skins, esp.) in the service of standardization. Fries should be a treat, IMO. Fruit should be an everyday thing - I'm currently nibbling away at one of those imported boxes of clementines - so sweet, no seeds, skin just falls away - yum. :)

I agree - fruit is unprocessed and full of nutrients, and probably nutrients that haven't even been discovered yet, i.e., you can't get them in a vitamin pill. French fries also probably aren't all bad, but clearly, they are little more than refined carbohydrates, i.e., stripped of much of nutritious value (skins, esp.) in the service of standardization. Fries should be a treat, IMO. Fruit should be an everyday thing - I'm currently nibbling away at one of those imported boxes of clementines - so sweet, no seeds, skin just falls away - yum. :)
I love clementines! They're on my grocery list for my next shopping trip.

I love clementines! They're on my grocery list for my next shopping trip.

The ones I have are imported from either Spain or Morocco, can't recall, but so good. Like sunshine in a piece of fruit. :)

I had a very rough eating week on the road... all chain restaurants and fast food eaten in the car. But I drank double my normal water today, walked rather than taking the moving walkways at the airports today, and got my eating scaled back. And tomorrow I hit the gym, hard.

I had a very rough eating week on the road... all chain restaurants and fast food eaten in the car. But I drank double my normal water today, walked rather than taking the moving walkways at the airports today, and got my eating scaled back. And tomorrow I hit the gym, hard.
Some weeks, it's rough. It sounds like you're bouncing back though, based on today and your plans for tomorrow.

On Fridays when I head for home I always stop at Fresh Market to get salads for my husband and me. They have great premade salads if you should happen to drive by one in your travels, btw. It's almost a two hour drive home and I wasn't in my usual car which has coolers in the trunk so I almost didn't go. But I wanted to show my love for my husband so I went and bought only enough salads to fit in my lunch tote. I was hungry and decided to get a snack to have before hitting the road. Instead of hitting the chocolate covered whatevers I bought a single banana. At the checkout I told the bag boy to keep it out since "it'll hardly make it out of the building. It tasted wonderful and filled me for the whole drive home.

On Fridays when I head for home I always stop at Fresh Market to get salads for my husband and me. They have great premade salads if you should happen to drive by one in your travels, btw. It's almost a two hour drive home and I wasn't in my usual car which has coolers in the trunk so I almost didn't go. But I wanted to show my love for my husband so I went and bought only enough salads to fit in my lunch tote. I was hungry and decided to get a snack to have before hitting the road. Instead of hitting the chocolate covered whatevers I bought a single banana. At the checkout I told the bag boy to keep it out since "it'll hardly make it out of the building. It tasted wonderful and filled me for the whole drive home.

Three cheers for willpower!! Today I went to one of my favorite cafes (http://www.huckleberrycafe.com) to pick up a roast chicken for dinner. They make a wonderful chicken and it comes with a big side salad of fresh from the farm arugala. The bakery offers a variety of the most delicious fresh baked goods. I was drooling looking at the banana muffins which they had just brought out and considered how good that would taste with my tea in the morning. It was a nice little fantasy. I left with just the chicken and the greens.

I only ate one Nestle's drumstick instead of the normal two

While lunch was a McDonald's happy meal, dinner was a Lean Cuisine steamers meal.

While lunch was a McDonald's happy meal, dinner was a Lean Cuisine steamers meal.

Excellent choice with the Happy Meal. They are correct proportions. It's such a shame at there is such a push to outlaw them in some cities. I really wish everyone was encouraged to get one instead of the high fat, high cal burgers and fries.

Discovering that my weight had stayed constant despite two weeks on the road (one pretty rough, food-wise) with no working out was a motivator... I figured if I could stay constant there, that maybe if I amped up the workouts and watched my nutrition while at home for 10 days, perhaps the scale would show me some love. So I got my food adjusted for the weekend AND put in 1.5 hours of gym time yesterday and again today. Alarm is set to do it tomorrow am too.

On Fridays when I head for home I always stop at Fresh Market to get salads for my husband and me. They have great premade salads if you should happen to drive by one in your travels, btw. It's almost a two hour drive home and I wasn't in my usual car which has coolers in the trunk so I almost didn't go. But I wanted to show my love for my husband so I went and bought only enough salads to fit in my lunch tote. I was hungry and decided to get a snack to have before hitting the road. Instead of hitting the chocolate covered whatevers I bought a single banana. At the checkout I told the bag boy to keep it out since "it'll hardly make it out of the building. It tasted wonderful and filled me for the whole drive home.

That's a terrific story. Anyone who struggles with saying "No!" to fattening food can relate. I was at the Costco this weekend, and had to resist all kinds of stuff I knew would set me back - chips, frozen quiche and burgers, the pastry section, a big bag of potatoes - had to pass all of them by.

Lots of brisk walking. I'm alternating between "work days" and "fun days" - I put extra focus on "work days", and on fun days, I can relax a little. I'm down seven pounds after a week. Will see how I do this week.

Excellent choice with the Happy Meal. They are correct proportions. It's such a shame at there is such a push to outlaw them in some cities. I really wish everyone was encouraged to get one instead of the high fat, high cal burgers and fries.
The Happy Meal served another purpose too--I was on my way to baby-sit, and it gave me a toy to use for bribery with the 4-year-old. She knows that if she's good while I'm there, she'll get a toy. If she's bad, she doesn't get anything.

An hour of walking, a breaded ( :eek: ) cod filet, refried beans with sour cream and heated sweet corn. Clementine for dessert. :p Vin blanc a boire, bien sur, avec le poisson. ;)

Solid workout week last week and a solid start this week (row class AM/Spin class PM on Monday.....run today).

Focusing on portion control.

Brought lunch from home again today. Had a packet of apple slices and grapes as a mid-morning snack. Just finished lunch (Lean Cuisine sandwich), and have 2 more packets of apple slices and grapes for this afternoon.

Brought lunch from home again today. Had a packet of apple slices and grapes as a mid-morning snack. Just finished lunch (Lean Cuisine sandwich), and have 2 more packets of apple slices and grapes for this afternoon.

Way to go. :) Me, I had a blue cheese dressing/romaine salad with mushrooms, blue cheese, red onions and tomatoes, and a pink lady apple for later.

By the way, when I stepped on the scale Sunday night, it DID reflect a seven pound loss. However, we know how this goes - it's back up three pounds or so. :( Nothing I can do except keep going. ^ I could gain all seven back and it wouldn't deter me.

Way to go. :) Me, I had a blue cheese dressing/romaine salad with mushrooms, blue cheese, red onions and tomatoes, and a pink lady apple for later.

By the way, when I stepped on the scale Sunday night, it DID reflect a seven pound loss. However, we know how this goes - it's back up three pounds or so. :( Nothing I can do except keep going. ^ I could gain all seven back and it wouldn't deter me.

I feel like I should eat another packet of fruit, but I'm not hungry. Perhaps I'll save them, and eat them before dinner instead. I'm going out to dinner with a friend tonight, so while I'm planning to eat smart, eating the fruit while on the way to the restaurant will probably help with that.

I do think the only option is to keep plugging away at it. Think about it--the only other option is to give up, and well, that shouldn't be an option for any of us. :)

I got back on the scale this morning, and it says I'm back down 7 lb. total. ^ I'd forgotten that achieving a set weight loss goal is almost always a roller coaster. Dinner was a couple Aidell chicken/apple sausages (+ mustard) and leftover corn/beans - more than I should have, but like I've said, too strict adherence leads to failure. Some cheese and fruit, too. 3-4 miles walking.

I have more room in my t-shirt. ^

Lunch was a Wendy's Baja salad no guacamole. Thanks taylorc418 (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16128575-post18.html)--power of suggestion....

I saved 100 calories by using the chili as a dressing, not the suggested dressing. I probably saved more than that, since I only ate about 2/3 of the chili as dressing, and threw out the rest of it.

Wasting food annoys me, but I'm trying to always keep from eating a bite or two of whatever meal. I figure it's a good way to shave a few calories without noticing.

Breakfast was McDonald's Fruit and Maple oatmeal, missing the fruit. I've tried it with the fruit and didn't like it as much as plain.

I saved 100 calories by using the chili as a dressing, not the suggested dressing. I probably saved more than that, since I only ate about 2/3 of the chili as dressing, and threw out the rest of it.

That's an excellent idea. @:-)

Wasting food annoys me, but I'm trying to always keep from eating a bite or two of whatever meal. I figure it's a good way to shave a few calories without noticing.

In theory, it's upsetting, yes; in reality, throwing out half is sometimes the best thing to do, on many levels. For example, you could eat it, but if that makes you less healthy, how does that serve anyone's interests?

That's an excellent idea. @:-)
Using the chili as dressing, or throwing out 1/3 of the chili and the dressing that was included with the salad? :)

In theory, it's upsetting, yes; in reality, throwing out half is sometimes the best thing to do, on many levels. For example, you could eat it, but if that makes you less healthy, how does that serve anyone's interests?
I can't say that I'm throwing out half of the food yet--just a few bites with each meal, and about 1/3 of the chili today. Actually, I take that back. On Monday, I did throw out half of lunch. But, that was because what I wanted was more expensive than a different option that included what I wanted, but also had 2 additional items. I don't know why that was and I can't explain it, but that's how it was. So, I ordered the larger option and then threw out half of the food.

Using the chili as dressing, or throwing out 1/3 of the chili and the dressing that was included with the salad? :)

Well, the chili as dressing. Kind of a creative way to eat a bit of everything, without overeating. @:-) IMO, thin dressings like vinaigrette or Italian suffice only if it's to be followed with something more substantial. Otherwise, I go for the chunky blue cheese or ranch or parmesan type dressings. ^

Well, the chili as dressing. Kind of a creative way to eat a bit of everything, without overeating. @:-) IMO, thin dressings like vinaigrette or Italian suffice only if it's to be followed with something more substantial. Otherwise, I go for the chunky blue cheese or ranch or parmesan type dressings. ^
This was a "creamy red jalapeno" dressing. It looked like a liquidy Thousand Island dressing and not incredibly appealing. :)

The chili worked well. I poured a bit on the salad as I needed it rather than dumping the entire container of chili on the salad. That seemed like it would be too messy.

Dinner was a moderate portion of couscous, ditto some LeSeuer green peas simmered in butter, and another cod fillet with tartar sauce. A bit of gorgonzolla for dessert. I struggled with limiting my entree to just one fillet, lol, but one was plenty.

Lunch was another Lean Cuisine. Tossed it in the garbage with 3 bites left. Ate a packet of fruit, had 3 spoonfuls of a Yoplait delights. It was horrible, and I threw out the rest of it. I also had most of an 80 calorie cup of yogurt, but kept with the now tradition of throwing out a portion of it.

I'm fighting a migraine today, so I think my activity this evening is going to be limited to any tossing and turning I do in bed. Ugh!

Dinner was a moderate portion of couscous, ditto some LeSeuer green peas simmered in butter, and another cod fillet with tartar sauce. A bit of gorgonzolla for dessert. I struggled with limiting my entree to just one fillet, lol, but one was plenty.

I hear ya. Portion control is my problem. :)

I'm fighting a migraine today, so I think my activity this evening is going to be limited to any tossing and turning I do in bed. Ugh!

Watch the migraines in combination with caloric restriction. I've found that not taking in a minimum recommended amount of daily calories (and doing it in a balanced way throughout the day) will lead to extreme headaches for me.

I'm also learning that I will get headaches if my ratio of protein to fat to carbs gets too far out of balance.

My step this week was starting nutrient tracking on top of just recording my food... I'm striving for 25% protein, 25% fat, 50% carbs based on the advice from the nutritionist at my club.

Watch the migraines in combination with caloric restriction. I've found that not taking in a minimum recommended amount of daily calories (and doing it in a balanced way throughout the day) will lead to extreme headaches for me.

I'm also learning that I will get headaches if my ratio of protein to fat to carbs gets too far out of balance.
I didn't think about that!

I had the headaches myself last week - and I found I was falling into bed at 9 pm every night, completely out of energy - so I decided to adjust my loss plan a bit so I can take in about 200 more calories a day. 1,500 was not cutting it for me as busy as I've been... and if I'm too tired, I have trouble getting in a good workout.

I hear ya. Portion control is my problem. :)

I weakened last night and heated up two fillets, lol, and fried two potatoes.

I have STILL managed to lose another three pounds for last week, so I'm down 10 pounds over two weeks. ^ As you can see, my weight loss has slowed since most initial weight loss is simply water. I have picked up my physical activity immensely, and I am constantly watching my food. Last night was a splurge that I'll probably repeat next weekend in exchange for keeping to my plan.

Watch the migraines in combination with caloric restriction. I've found that not taking in a minimum recommended amount of daily calories (and doing it in a balanced way throughout the day) will lead to extreme headaches for me.

I'm also learning that I will get headaches if my ratio of protein to fat to carbs gets too far out of balance.

^ Also, I find I get headaches when I am dehydrated. No sensation is as envigorating as drinking a tall cup of room temperature water first thing in the morning. :)

Lunch was a Lean Cuisine. Have a headache, so I'm thinking it's probably dehydration. I know I've not been drinking that much water, and have been drinking lots of coffee and Diet Coke. I'm switching to water now though.

Had a half head of iceburg lettuce and a whole green pepper with a little olive oil for lunch. Delicious!

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Weather is starting to get nice at home so it is time to start walking again. I have a new program to track my walks and decided since I was in Orlando to give it a try at Disneyland. I could have done without the 90 degree heat but it is cooling now. So far I have done something like 2.5 miles and more to go.

Today is my second day back on track from a few weeks of lack luster preformance. When I got home from work I had two lunch sized containers of no sugar added applesauce. After dinner when I was a little peckish so I had an orange.

I tracked points very dutifully, took Mr. Geno for a slow walk for about 10 minutes (extra activity), and was very careful when I decided what to have for dinner. :)

I did really good yesterday, doing the egg-veggie salad for lunch-light dinner-thing, and feeling fine, but then I had a bit of insomnia last night, and poured myself a small bowl of that Costco Ancient Grain cereal (OMG Good!, but very carby) and whole milk. I didn't overdo it really, but I would have preferred sticking to a hard-boiled egg. That's okay. I counted that for breakfast and today is a 'work' day so I need to think about walking and being good diet-wise.

I did really good yesterday, doing the egg-veggie salad for lunch-light dinner-thing, and feeling fine, but then I had a bit of insomnia last night, and poured myself a small bowl of that Costco Ancient Grain cereal (OMG Good!, but very carby) and whole milk. I didn't overdo it really, but I would have preferred sticking to a hard-boiled egg. That's okay. I counted that for breakfast and today is a 'work' day so I need to think about walking and being good diet-wise.

Egg-veggie salad thing?

Egg-veggie salad thing?

Sorry, should have slashed instead of dashed, lol.

egg/veggie salad/light dinner - i.e., hard-boiled egg as breakfast, vegetable salad for lunch, and something light for dinner - pretty typical menu for people on a diet.

Sorry, should have slashed instead of dashed, lol.

egg/veggie salad/light dinner - i.e., hard-boiled egg as breakfast, vegetable salad for lunch, and something light for dinner - pretty typical menu for people on a diet.
LOL, I was just a bit confused. :)

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Walked a mile today. Something that big convention centers are great for.

Just saw this thread. On Sunday, I downloaded the I-phone "Livestrong" app (free) where you count your calories, and theoretically can count calories you burn. Has been eye-opening. I think just the mechanics of paying attention and entering the data, though cumbersome, helps. I'm sure there are many similar apps, but I set a 1700 calorie target and have kept it this week so far. I do oatmeal for breakfast with Splenda/brown sugar mix and dried cherries, since it is filling and helps with keeping cholesterol count down. Just avoiding the Biscoff bag is helping...and having my wife get on board is great.

I actually did squats and lunges (with weights) today at the gym without a trainer or class telling me to. I normally won't do them on my own, but they are good exercises, so I really should add them to by weightlifting cycle. Also I went to the gym and exercised even though I was feeling bloated and tired.

I've been a good girl with WW for the third day in a row. The hubby and I also walked 3.5 miles this evening. There weather is finally turning a little. It got up to like 62 today!

Diet-wise, I was bad yesterday - at least, just for lunch - chicken cannelloni stuffed with ham, spinach and bechamel, lol. BUT: I ate about 2/3, and threw the rest away. ^ Then last night, I tried to limit myself to one frozen quesadilla, but weakened, and had a second one. Looking at my scale, I'm at an impasse, and have resolved to do better. ^

Ironically, watching Biggest Loser last night was sobering. Anyone else watch it?

Diet-wise, I was bad yesterday - at least, just for lunch - chicken cannelloni stuffed with ham, spinach and bechamel, lol. BUT: I ate about 2/3, and threw the rest away. ^ Then last night, I tried to limit myself to one frozen quesadilla, but weakened, and had a second one. Looking at my scale, I'm at an impasse, and have resolved to do better. ^

Ironically, watching Biggest Loser last night was sobering. Anyone else watch it?
I've never watched Biggest Loser. Although, if it requires me to stay awake beyond about 10, it's a lost cause! :)

Today, lunch was a baja salad from Wendy's, no guacamole (yuck) and no dressing. I recycled the dressing though--my coworker eats salads every day, so she has the dresing packet now. Breakfast was a turkey sausage and egg white sandwich. I could've skipped the turkey and gone with additional egg whites I think. :)

Dinner last night was grilled chicken, steamed veggies, and mashed potatoes.

Dinner last night was grilled chicken, steamed veggies, and mashed potatoes.

Sounds good - I have some Belgian endive I'm going to bake, and have it with a sausage link. I'm supposed to be easing up today, but since I pigged out yesterday, I can't afford to. Maybe on Friday. ^

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Knew I wouldn't get much exercise today so ate light. For lunch turkey with no cheese on whole wheat and fruit.

Yesterday was a terrible exercise day. I checked into the Hampton a little later than usual and apparently there was a convention of workout fiends also staying there. I went down to the fitness center 4 times before I was able to get a machine. After the second failed attempt I decided to do jumping jacks and run in place in my room. Those 3rd grade exercises are surprisingly intensive. But in the end I didn't get enough exercise because of the late hour and today I'm restless and in some pain.

I've been following plan and have used no more than 4 weekly points per day since Sunday. Looks like I'll have plenty of points to slurge on pizza this weekend!

In theory, it's upsetting, yes; in reality, throwing out half is sometimes the best thing to do, on many levels.

A friend started me on my fitness and weight loss trip many years ago by saying "Why use your body as a trash can?"

Yesterday I went to track practice even though it was cold and rainy and I was tempted to skip it. Sure enough, after warming up I felt fine and enjoyed it. Sore today, though.

A friend started me on my fitness and weight loss trip many years ago by saying "Why use your body as a trash can?"

Yesterday I went to track practice even though it was cold and rainy and I was tempted to skip it. Sure enough, after warming up I felt fine and enjoyed it. Sore today, though.

I have to do my exercise tonight - I'm supposed to be "good" today, and I have been, so far. :D I exercise every other day.

Yesterday was a terrible exercise day. I checked into the Hampton a little later than usual and apparently there was a convention of workout fiends also staying there. I went down to the fitness center 4 times before I was able to get a machine. After the second failed attempt I decided to do jumping jacks and run in place in my room. Those 3rd grade exercises are surprisingly intensive. But in the end I didn't get enough exercise because of the late hour and today I'm restless and in some pain.

I've been following plan and have used no more than 4 weekly points per day since Sunday. Looks like I'll have plenty of points to slurge on pizza this weekend!
Ugh--sounds like they had a small fitness center, or an incredibly high demand! Good for you though for exercising in your room!

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Despite a sinus infection I dragged myself to my appointment with my personal trainer tonight.

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Despite a sinus infection I dragged myself to my appointment with my personal trainer tonight.

^ I did so good today. My only infraction was a glass of milk, which I really didn't need. Did a good hour of exercise, and ate lightly.

Today I had toast, yogurt, and a banana for breakfast followed by a PB sandwich with yogurt at lunch and a Fresh Market salad for dinner. I had a couple of oranges for snacks. All-in-all a good food day. When I got to the hotel I did 57 minutes on the treadmill. My workout included .75 miles of running but sadly it was in two bursts. Today was actually a success.

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Despite a sinus infection I dragged myself to my appointment with my personal trainer tonight.
Ouch! Did they go easy on you last night? Were you able to breathe ok?
^ I did so good today. My only infraction was a glass of milk, which I really didn't need. Did a good hour of exercise, and ate lightly.
Yay! Good job on eating lightly!
Today I had toast, yogurt, and a banana for breakfast followed by a PB sandwich with yogurt at lunch and a Fresh Market salad for dinner. I had a couple of oranges for snacks. All-in-all a good food day. When I got to the hotel I did 57 minutes on the treadmill. My workout included .75 miles of running but sadly it was in two bursts. Today was actually a success.
Any exercise is better than no exercise, so even if the running was in 2 bursts, at least you were able to get it in there! You did almost an hour on the treadmill? Great job!

Yesterday, I went 4 points over my daily limit, but I made a poor choice at lunch, and opted for ham, rather than turkey. In the future, I'll stick with turkey. :)

Today, I had oatmeal for breakfast, and am going to nosh on some grapes as a snack between breakfast and lunch.

The news that had me doing a happy dance at 6 AM was that I've dropped 3.8 pounds! :D It's turning into a routine--I weigh myself, and Cobaka supervises. When I see the number, I do a little happy dance and she jumps around too.

I was up at 2 AM and was pretty productive already-I did dishes and cleaned, and earned 2 activity points. :) I will admit that I was bad in how I took the garbage to the curb... We have a LONG driveway, and I had 3 bags of trash, along with 3 large cardboard boxes filled with other boxes. Rather than make several trips, carrying things, I tossed everything in the Jeep on the way to work and dropped it all off at the curb. Next week, I WILL walk the garbage cans out to the curb, no driving allowed!

Any exercise is better than no exercise, so even if the running was in 2 bursts, at least you were able to get it in there! You did almost an hour on the treadmill? Great job!

Yesterday, I went 4 points over my daily limit, but I made a poor choice at lunch, and opted for ham, rather than turkey. In the future, I'll stick with turkey. :)

Today, I had oatmeal for breakfast, and am going to nosh on some grapes as a snack between breakfast and lunch.

The news that had me doing a happy dance at 6 AM was that I've dropped 3.8 pounds! :D It's turning into a routine--I weigh myself, and Cobaka supervises. When I see the number, I do a little happy dance and she jumps around too.

I was up at 2 AM and was pretty productive already-I did dishes and cleaned, and earned 2 activity points. :) I will admit that I was bad in how I took the garbage to the curb... We have a LONG driveway, and I had 3 bags of trash, along with 3 large cardboard boxes filled with other boxes. Rather than make several trips, carrying things, I tossed everything in the Jeep on the way to work and dropped it all off at the curb. Next week, I WILL walk the garbage cans out to the curb, no driving allowed!

I usually try to spend near an hour on the elliptical/treadmill. When I first started WW I was completely spent after 33 minutes on the elliptical. As I've lost weight and gained endurance I've started to feel like 33 minutes is just a warm up. If a good movie or program is on I can go for hours. I onced watched almost all of The Blind Side while on an elliptical. You'll get there, too. Just keep up with the program and exercise a couple of times a week. Dog walking is a great way to start.

Way to go on the 3.8 lbs! I love how WW gives you activity points for doing housework. It sure makes vacuuming a more desirable task.

I need to change something - I'm at a standstill weight-wise. :mad:

I just think I need to reduce my portions even further, and perhaps extend my exercise sessions.

I need to change something - I'm at a standstill weight-wise. :mad:

I just think I need to reduce my portions even further, and perhaps extend my exercise sessions.

Platueas happen. Do you tend to eat the same things and follow roughly the same workout pattern? If so, you may not need to eat less and exercise more. You may just need to eat differently and exercise differently.

Platueas happen. Do you tend to eat the same things and follow roughly the same workout pattern? If so, you may not need to eat less and exercise more. You may just need to eat differently and exercise differently.

I'm finding that as I exercise more, my appetite has increased; and also that I need to exercise more in order to 'feel the burn', as Jane Fonda quipped.

I know, maybe I need to increase my water consumption, which suppresses appetite and keeps you hydrated. @:-)

What works for you, when you hit a plateau?

I'm finding that as I exercise more, my appetite has increased; and also that I need to exercise more in order to 'feel the burn', as Jane Fonda quipped.

I know, maybe I need to increase my water consumption, which suppresses appetite and keeps you hydrated. @:-)

What works for you, when you hit a plateau?
Try changing up what you do as exercise. Do something different in that regard. If you usually run, try cycling.

Water is usually good too.

What works for you, when you hit a plateau?

I start pulling out recipes that I haven't used in a while and find some new ones. If I've been eating a lot of tofu I'll start eating more chicken, beef, and pork. I'll change my breakfast habits. I'll switch from granola bars to cereal or bananas to pears. My body will have to adapt to process the "new" foods.

I'll change up the exercise routine. I'll weight lift more than cardio. I'll do outside activities rather than inside ones. I'll swim instead of walk/run. I'll force my body to use different muscles than it had been.

But most importantly I'll step away from the fridge and get out of the house/office/hotel.

ETA: When you are finished working out eat foods that are more filling. Filling foods are those foods with more water, protein, and fiber in them. They will hold you longer than high carb foods.

Yesterday was really bad--we went out to dinner with friends, and while my entree was a good decision, I nibbled on too many appetizers. So, I'm really cracking down on what I'm doing the rest of the week! Now, if only it would stop raining, so I could take the dogs for a nice long walk!

Yesterday was really bad--we went out to dinner with friends, and while my entree was a good decision, I nibbled on too many appetizers. So, I'm really cracking down on what I'm doing the rest of the week! Now, if only it would stop raining, so I could take the dogs for a nice long walk!

Unless you're the Wicked Witch of the West, you can walk in the rain you know ;). Just put on a rain poncho & have some towels to dry off the doggies when you return.

Cheers.

Unless you're the Wicked Witch of the West, you can walk in the rain you know ;). Just put on a rain poncho & have some towels to dry off the doggies when you return.

Cheers.
Shh, you'll ruin my little secret!!! :D

No, the real reason I don't want to take the dogs out walking in the rain is where we take them turns into a giant mud puddle with the amount of rain we've had in the past 24 hours. While I don't mind getting muddy, I do mind having to bathe both dogs and having mud and such all through a white bathroom. :)

I've behaved myself today. It's a coworker's 40th birthday, and she baked cupcakes. We're part of a dark chocolate club, so those of us in the club received cupcakes, while the other 100 people in the office did not. So, while I felt obligated to take one, I gave it to a coworker in my department. :)

I've behaved myself today. It's a coworker's 40th birthday, and she baked cupcakes. We're part of a dark chocolate club, so those of us in the club received cupcakes, while the other 100 people in the office did not. So, while I felt obligated to take one, I gave it to a coworker in my department. :)

That's great! It is really hard to not give into that temptation. You handled it really well and managed not to offend anyone. You had your cake and ate it to!

Had a single date for breakfast (get your mind out of the gutter!), and egg salad sandwich/apple for lunch. Probably going to do home-healthy version of fish/chips for dinner.

That's great! It is really hard to not give into that temptation. You handled it really well and managed not to offend anyone. You had your cake and ate it to!
Thanks. I wasn't sure what to do initially, but I figured that it can't be too difficult to convince someone in my department to eat a cupcake. :)
Had a single date for breakfast (get your mind out of the gutter!), and egg salad sandwich/apple for lunch. Probably going to do home-healthy version of fish/chips for dinner.
LOL, where is YOUR mind? :D If the home-healthy version of fish and chips is good, could you please post the recipe?

LOL, where is YOUR mind? :D If the home-healthy version of fish and chips is good, could you please post the recipe?

There's not much of a recipe to it - a frozen breaded cod fillet, baked as directed, and for the chips, just peel a potato and sort of julienne it, but in french fry sizes, fry in vegetable oil (I use grape seed oil), turning every minute or so until golden on all sides, and then put in a bowl lined with paper towels, season with salt/pepper and maybe some dried oregano or chili powder, toss gently and serve with ketchup or mayo, and the fillet, of course, lol. You could even just serve with tartar sauce, as that makes a nice sauce for both the fillet and the fries. Enjoy. I consider it healthy in that you can vary the portions as necessary, and you could probably substitute sweet potato or maybe even carrots??? Never tried either of those, but if you want a little more vitamins and minerals, that might work. I like experimenting like that. ;)

There's not much of a recipe to it - a frozen breaded cod fillet, baked as directed, and for the chips, just peel a potato and sort of julienne it, but in french fry sizes, fry in vegetable oil (I use grape seed oil), turning every minute or so until golden on all sides, and then put in a bowl lined with paper towels, season with salt/pepper and maybe some dried oregano or chili powder, toss gently and serve with ketchup or mayo, and the fillet, of course, lol. You could even just serve with tartar sauce, as that makes a nice sauce for both the fillet and the fries. Enjoy. I consider it healthy in that you can vary the portions as necessary, and you could probably substitute sweet potato or maybe even carrots??? Never tried either of those, but if you want a little more vitamins and minerals, that might work. I like experimenting like that. ;)
I'm not a tartar sauce sort of person... I need malt vinegar for fish and chips. :) I may try it one of these evenings for dinner. :)

As FFs (particularly at the top levels) we are upfront most of the time, which means food choices that are not always the best. Moreover, a heavy day of travel likely means no time for the gym (particularly on long MRs.) You could bring you own food onboard but that is a hassle so here is what I try do:

Take the salad option for lunch/snack and use the dressing sparingly (now if AA would only expand beyond the damn chicken or shrimp salad:p).

Use stairs or whenever possbile walk up escalators (one reason I do not do rollerboards), walk do not stand on the moving walkways.

If time allows take a long walk in the airport, particularly easy in major hubs, and please walk like you are late for a flight not like you are on a Sunday stroll.

Continually drink water and limit the booze.

Make sure that you have set your schedule so that you are back in the gym asap upon return.

Another thing that I do is take a shower when time allows once I reach a hub AC. I find that my energy level comes back and I am more likely to take the walk and/or walk faster and take the stairs. Also more time away from the AC means I won't be hitting the snack mix (tastes oh so good but so unhealthy) or bar.

Use stairs or whenever possbile walk up escalators (one reason I do not do rollerboards), walk do not stand on the moving walkways.

Have you tried walking on the walkways going in the wrong direction for an extra workout?

Today, breakfast was oatmeal, lunch was strawberries, most of a half chicken breast, and a 6 oz. container of light and fit Dannon yogurt. I'm working on my first bottle of water, and will knock out a second before I leave for the day.

If I can lose 0.2 pounds, I'll be down 5 pounds since April 1. Which, while not the fastest weight-loss, I'll take 5 or 6 pounds every two weeks. :) I didn't gain this much at once, I can't just wave a wand and make it all disappear at once either. Trust me, if I could, I'd have done that already! :D

Have you tried walking on the walkways going in the wrong direction for an extra workout?

Today, breakfast was oatmeal, lunch was strawberries, most of a half chicken breast, and a 6 oz. container of light and fit Dannon yogurt. I'm working on my first bottle of water, and will knock out a second before I leave for the day.

If I can lose 0.2 pounds, I'll be down 5 pounds since April 1. Which, while not the fastest weight-loss, I'll take 5 or 6 pounds every two weeks. :) I didn't gain this much at once, I can't just wave a wand and make it all disappear at once either. Trust me, if I could, I'd have done that already! :D

^ You are doing very well, bravo.

^ You are doing very well, bravo.

Thank you! I'm figuring that it may take me a year to lose all the weight I want to lose, but slowly plugging away at it is about the only thing that's worked for me.

I've not told most of my coworkers that I'm actively trying to lose weight... I'm figuring that at some point, they'll have to notice eventually. :)

Thank you! I'm figuring that it may take me a year to lose all the weight I want to lose, but slowly plugging away at it is about the only thing that's worked for me.

I've not told most of my coworkers that I'm actively trying to lose weight... I'm figuring that at some point, they'll have to notice eventually. :)

The best thing to do is go on vacation. I'm a college professor and I work from home over the breaks. When I'm away from my coworkers for a few weeks, they all forget how thin I am now. In that first deparment meeting of the term there's always talk of how I'm half the woman I used to be. They also seem to notice when my clothes get loose. You'll be there soon.

My trainer noticed at about 15 pounds (of course, he's paid to look at me) :-).

I find coworkers rarely say anything, which is probably for the best (how do you know someone *wants* to be noticed for having lost weight?).

The best thing to do is go on vacation. I'm a college professor and I work from home over the breaks. When I'm away from my coworkers for a few weeks, they all forget how thin I am now. In that first deparment meeting of the term there's always talk of how I'm half the woman I used to be. They also seem to notice when my clothes get loose. You'll be there soon.
LOL, I'm going on a week's vacation in July, so we'll see then, I guess. :) Although, hunting, in Texas, in the middle of July, who knows what that'll do to my weight! :)
My trainer noticed at about 15 pounds (of course, he's paid to look at me) :-).

I find coworkers rarely say anything, which is probably for the best (how do you know someone *wants* to be noticed for having lost weight?).
LOL, I'm hoping that Mr. Kipper will notice around then... But I don't want him to say something just because he thinks he should. :)

I guess that's true for many cases.

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Asked for an appetizer sized portion for my main course at lunch. For dinner I was really craving BBQ and even pulled the menu of where I was going to go off their website. But on the way there changed my mind and got something with about 1000 less calories. ;).

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Asked for an appetizer sized portion for my main course at lunch. For dinner I was really craving BBQ and even pulled the menu of where I was going to go off their website. But on the way there changed my mind and got something with about 1000 less calories. ;).
Good job on both counts!

My trainer noticed at about 15 pounds (of course, he's paid to look at me) :-).

I find coworkers rarely say anything, which is probably for the best (how do you know someone *wants* to be noticed for having lost weight?).

The polite way around "noticing you've lost weight" is to say something like, 'You look terrific - are you cutting your hair differently? Is that it? Can't put my finger on it, but you've done something...'

Kippers, if there's one way to take years off your appearance, it's losing weight. People will notice. ^

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Asked for an appetizer sized portion for my main course at lunch. For dinner I was really craving BBQ and even pulled the menu of where I was going to go off their website. But on the way there changed my mind and got something with about 1000 less calories. ;).

Excellent. ^

As I've stated, I have felt like I'm at a standstill, but this morning, I found that slowly-but-surely the scale IS moving down. And I FEEL lighter. Today is a 'work day' so I need to be extra careful on my food and push myself to work out hard. Gotta remember: restrict carbs; water, water, water; why take the elevator when there are stairs?.

Excellent. ^

As I've stated, I have felt like I'm at a standstill, but this morning, I found that slowly-but-surely the scale IS moving down. And I FEEL lighter. Today is a 'work day' so I need to be extra careful on my food and push myself to work out hard. Gotta remember: restrict carbs; water, water, water; why take the elevator when there are stairs?.

Are you getting close to a "normal" weight for your body size? You'll notice that that as you get closer to a good weight the pounds don't shead as quickly or easily. Right now I'm about 8 lbs from my goal of a BMI of 22. Those last 8 lbs have been lingering well beyond their welcome. But I take it as it should be taken. I'm 25 lbs lighter than I was this time last year and 40 lbs lighter than I thought I'd ever be again when I began this journey.

I'm up 0.2 pounds from yesterday, but then again, I'm feeling a little off. I think it was because I skimped on my fruit allotment for yesterday. I couldn't justify paying $3/pound for grapes, when another store nearby has them for $1/pound, but on Tuesday, I didn't want to stop at both stores. So, while I did eat some fruit, I just didn't eat enough apparently!

Back at it today. I've discovered that I'm cheating myself out of about a little walk each afternoon. Yesterday, when I arrived home, the UPS truck was waiting to turn into our driveway, so rather than make him wait until I stopped at the end of the driveway for the mail, I pulled to the far end of the driveway. When he left, I hoofed the round trip down our very long driveway, to the mailbox, and then back.

New plan going forward: ALWAYS park the car by the house, then walk to the mailbox. :) I think I'm going to ask Mr. Kipper if we can switch where we park. I usually park in front of the house, he parks on the side. If I park on the side, I have to walk more to get to my car and from my car to the house. :)

Are you getting close to a "normal" weight for your body size? You'll notice that that as you get closer to a good weight the pounds don't shead as quickly or easily. Right now I'm about 8 lbs from my goal of a BMI of 22. Those last 8 lbs have been lingering well beyond their welcome. But I take it as it should be taken. I'm 25 lbs lighter than I was this time last year and 40 lbs lighter than I thought I'd ever be again when I began this journey.

Yes, I actually am - frankly, you wouldn't know I'm a little paunchy from looking at me, since I disguise it well, but, rest assured, I am. :(

I weighed in at lunch and I had lost 3 lbs! I couldn't believe it. We'll see if it sticks next week but I am really amazed. Particularly since I haven't really been "living in the truth" for the last few weeks.

Yesterday morning I did an hour with a personal trainer lifting weights and over an hour of cardio in preparation for Cupcake Camp (http://www.cupcakecampboston.com/). I ate too much cake but far less than I expected. I skipped my workout today so I could do laundry and run errands.

I just discovered my BMI is 23.5, which is within the normal range for men (normal being BMI between 18 and 25), but at the high end. @:-)

I made the mistake of not choosing the right things at lunch, believing my husband would be upset if I didn't order and enjoy spaghetti at the very red sauce Italian-American restaurant he took me too.

And I ate the bread. Absolutely no vegetables were harmed in the creation of the lunch I ate (except a few tomatoes).

I need to remind myself (again) that it's not worth eating food that isn't a) good and b) good for me.

Okay.

So today's step is to not eat everything in sight just because I made poor choices at lunch.

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I made the mistake of not choosing the right things at lunch, believing my husband would be upset if I didn't order and enjoy spaghetti at the very red sauce Italian-American restaurant he took me too.

And I ate the bread. Absolutely no vegetables were harmed in the creation of the lunch I ate (except a few tomatoes).

I need to remind myself (again) that it's not worth eating food that isn't a) good and b) good for me.

Okay.

So today's step is to not eat everything in sight just because I made poor choices at lunch.

Hang in there. There are always bumps on the way. Some planned, others not. It is a continual process.

I made the mistake of not choosing the right things at lunch, believing my husband would be upset if I didn't order and enjoy spaghetti at the very red sauce Italian-American restaurant he took me too.

And I ate the bread. Absolutely no vegetables were harmed in the creation of the lunch I ate (except a few tomatoes).

I need to remind myself (again) that it's not worth eating food that isn't a) good and b) good for me.

Okay.

So today's step is to not eat everything in sight just because I made poor choices at lunch.
Did you hit your step?

Like GadgetFreak said, it's a continual process.

Likewise, while I understand you didn't want to upset your husband, you need to do what is best for you. If he thinks what you're ordering is a bit odd, or if the servers at restaurants do, too bad! They aren't eating it, you are, so as long as you are comfortable and happy with your food choices, eat what is best for you.

I've found that most servers at restaurants take my special requests (steamed veggies without butter, sauces on the side, etc.) in stride.

I've decided that while Mr. Kipper isn't "following" WW, he's going to have to eat like it, to some extent. He can either deal with it now, and get over his grumpiness, or he can deal with it later, when my weight and lifestyle, if left unchecked, started to affect my health. I'm opting for option A there. He may not like what I'm eating, but since I cook, his options are to eat or starve while I'm eating healthy, but in the end, he gets a healthier, happier me.

I'm challenged for lunch today--I know what I used to order where I'm meeting Mr. Kipper, and buffalo chicken fajitas sound really good right now. I'd love to have those, but they're so bad... So, rather than go for fried chicken strips coated in buffalo sauce and ranch dressing, and adding sour cream, tortillas, cheese, etc., I'm going for grilled chicken fajitas, buffalo sauce on the side, low-fat ranch on the side, no tortillas. I figure that this way, I get most of what I want, but it's not as bad.

Thanks for the support, kipper and GadgetFreak!

Yes, I felt good about the rest of the day - large salad with balsamic vinegar and 1 scrambled egg for dinner.

Sounds like you've thought through your lunch plan, kipper - enjoy.

Last night was a planned splurge. I met my wife and a friend of ours for dinner and then an opera at the Met. We went to a nice neighborhood French/Italian restaurant. I kept it reasonable though. I considered pate for appetizer and duck for a main. Instead I had homemade shitake mushroom ravioli, not as bad as it sounds due to the light sauce, and broiled cod as a main. For desert I went with fresh fruit rather than the creme brulee which I adore.

Thanks for the support, kipper and GadgetFreak!

Yes, I felt good about the rest of the day - large salad with balsamic vinegar and 1 scrambled egg for dinner.

Sounds like you've thought through your lunch plan, kipper - enjoy.
Very good! Dinner sounds like it was very good!

LOL, I've probably overthought my lunch plan. :)
Last night was a planned splurge. I met my wife and a friend of ours for dinner and then an opera at the Met. We went to a nice neighborhood French/Italian restaurant. I kept it reasonable though. I considered pate for appetizer and duck for a main. Instead I had homemade shitake mushroom ravioli, not as bad as it sounds due to the light sauce, and broiled cod as a main. For desert I went with fresh fruit rather than the creme brulee which I adore.
Good job, especially on the fruit! I too adore creme brulee, so I sympathize with your plight!

Quaker Oats has "Quaker Quakes Vanilla Creme Brulee" rice snacks. I've not tried them, and while I'm certain they can't be as good as real creme brulee, they might have a similar taste. :)

Flew out Wednesday, back Thursday. Usually I don't get a chance to exercise and eat too much but did a little better on both counts.

For lunch before flying Wednesday had a salad and water. Crammed in a 20 minute jog Wednesday night after dinner (where I only had 1 beer) and about an hour of weightlifting Thursday AM before my meetings. Only drank water the whole trip except for the beer. Still couldn't quite drink enough on the return. Only really had time to grab a single slice of pizza for dinner on the return but I can get away with eating a slice or 3 of pizza. Only real slip up was being unable to resist the urge to grab a Tim Horton's donut before my return flight (no Tim Horton's in NoVA).

So overall, managed to keep up my fruit/veggie intake, drank more water than I have on quick trips in the past, got a bit of exercise in ate a bit less but had a donut. I'll take it.

Last night was a planned splurge. I met my wife and a friend of ours for dinner and then an opera at the Met. We went to a nice neighborhood French/Italian restaurant. I kept it reasonable though. I considered pate for appetizer and duck for a main. Instead I had homemade shitake mushroom ravioli, not as bad as it sounds due to the light sauce, and broiled cod as a main. For desert I went with fresh fruit rather than the creme brulee which I adore.

What I think you'll find, over time, is that the creme brulee seems less appealing, as syrupy sweet carb-laden foods begin to diminish in terms of your overall diet. I know that's how it eventually happened with me. I don't think I'll ever forget the genuine disgust I felt at looking at a meal of fried potatoes on top of rice with a pita bread on the side.

I'm doing better than I thought - as of today, I am down 12 pounds. ^ Not sure how, but I am. :) Roughly 3 pounds per week. I HAVE reduced some of my portions, and also have cut further my carb intake - for example, the other night I got Chinese takeout of Chicken and Mixed Vegetables, and of course they gave me the little paper bucket of rice, but I didn't even open it - I ate the chicken and veggies, and it was delicious. ^

I'm doing better than I thought - as of today, I am down 12 pounds. ^ Not sure how, but I am. :) Roughly 3 pounds per week. I HAVE reduced some of my portions, and also have cut further my carb intake - for example, the other night I got Chinese takeout of Chicken and Mixed Vegetables, and of course they gave me the little paper bucket of rice, but I didn't even open it - I ate the chicken and veggies, and it was delicious. ^

That's great! Way to go!

I did a half-hour on the ARC trainer today and then a half-hour on the recumbent bike. I went to the Health and Fitness Expo at the Hynes beforehand, and got some sort of tape (http://www.kttape.com/) on my knee to stabilize the joint at least. It is less bendy but doesn't crunch as much on stairs.

I've discovered that I really like biking. Today I woke up and got out of bed early just so I could go for a bike ride before meeting up with a friend to help them move. Considering how difficult it is for me to make myself go to the gym on the weekend, this is impressive for me. Also it was only 40F outside and really windy. I did 12.5 miles in a little over an hour with the last 6 miles going into some pretty fierce headwinds.

Well done!

We had killer winds yesterday, too - my first 7 miles (riding uphill & into the wind) took me an hour and 20 minutes; the next 4 miles (downhill, tailwind) took 7 minutes. Got to love gravity. I thought I was miserable but by the time I got home was pretty happy.

I got on the scale today and found I've finally made it below 160 (159.5, but who's checking?)! All little signs of progress help.

Well done!

We had killer winds yesterday, too - my first 7 miles (riding uphill & into the wind) took me an hour and 20 minutes; the next 4 miles (downhill, tailwind) took 7 minutes. Got to love gravity. I thought I was miserable but by the time I got home was pretty happy.

I got on the scale today and found I've finally made it below 160 (159.5, but who's checking?)! All little signs of progress help.

Yikes! Good job on being dedicated enough to get out there even in the weather!

Congrats!!!

I'm officially down 5 pounds in 2 weeks. :)

A big congrats to koko for shattering a goal and seeing a measurable improvement in health!!! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/16236197-post1.html

May we all follow in your footsteps and meet our goals! :D

Steps from the weekend:

Rather than give in to temptation for pizza, I made mini-pizzas, using WW english muffins, turkey pepperoni, and fresh, sliced mushrooms.
Passed up on a beer on Saturday night, although it helped that the pub was crowded and loud, thanks to a performer who thought he could make up for the lack of quality by increasing the volume. :)
Spent 15 minutes vigorously playing with one of the dogs. Rather than just throw her toy, I would wrestle her for it, play tug for it, and then throw it.

Yesterday I woke up inexplicably bummed out. It was my "day off" and I really had nothing to do so I just couldn't shake the combo of bored and just plain depressed. Instead of staying at home all day I decided to go walk the mall. I spent a little over an hour walking and it made me feel slightly better. But it kept me from eating myself into oblivion at home. It turned out it was a good thing since I had to miss my evening walk since we had tornado watches and warnings all evening.

Yesterday I woke up inexplicably bummed out. It was my "day off" and I really had nothing to do so I just couldn't shake the combo of bored and just plain depressed. Instead of staying at home all day I decided to go walk the mall. I spent a little over an hour walking and it made me feel slightly better. But it kept me from eating myself into oblivion at home. It turned out it was a good thing since I had to miss my evening walk since we had tornado watches and warnings all evening.
Walking at the mall can be a great way to break the boredom, since it's a change of location. Good job getting your walk in early and way to keep yourself from eating a lot at home!

Did a little over 5 miles on the elliptical in 1 hour this evening. Plus I spent about 20 minutes stretching and lifting weights while waiting for a machine to open up. All in all I think that I had a great exercise day. After my 80 minutes in the fitness center I've almost shaken off yesterday's case of the doldrums. Tomorrow I weigh-in so I'm hoping that goes well. As of last week I'm only 6-7 lbs from goal but I thought last week's loss was a little high so I'm worried that it didn't "stick."

I biked to work for the first time!!

Took me about an hour (my drive time is 30 mins). So I'll lose an hour of time on my commute, but gain 2 hours of exercise and I won't have to go to the gym tonight. I feel awesome!

Nice, JennyElf, It'sHip2B^2!

I'm getting good workouts in, but just can't seem to keep my food intake down. I'm trying to concentrate on eating more earlier in order to avoid the frenzied eating before bedtime.

Wow, losing is harder as you age, isn't it? LOL

Okay, so a half-dozen baby carrots for breakfast, and then I decided to try a pack of those Tasti Bite Madras Lentils for lunch - it sure looks disgusting right out of the pack, but it's actually really good. :) I'd give it four out of five stars on Amazon's rating scale, knocking a star off only due to 'presentation'. Aside from that, it's essentially a perfect diet food - tasty (as the brand claims!), moderately portioned and healthy. The only other concern for me would be pricing, which is kind of on the high side for lentils, but since I got it at Costco for about $2/pack, I guess that's just about my cutoff. I'd buy it again, but not for more than that.

At my lunch meeting today, they served pizza. :( In preparation, I ate a small healthy snack prior to the meeting, and limited myself to two slices of pizza--one cheese, one mushroom. I've also almost finished what will amount to 2 liters of water today.

Nice, JennyElf, It'sHip2B^2!

I'm getting good workouts in, but just can't seem to keep my food intake down. I'm trying to concentrate on eating more earlier in order to avoid the frenzied eating before bedtime.

Thanks!

I agree it's a challenge not to eat more when exercising more. I find that drinking water and eating higher fiber and protein foods tends to help for me. Also just going with a "No food after 10pm" rule. If I brush my teeth around then, it's even easier to abid by the rule because I don't want to have to brush my teeth again. Ultimately though, I did just have to grin and bear the hunger pangs for a week or so until my body readjusted and decided it didn't need more food.

Ran 4 miles yesterday and got in two full court hoops games (3 on 3) which is brutal, I was walking out hands on my knees drenched in sweat and my body aching. I couldn't get off the couch at night

Best part is, i ran 6 today, did my weights, shot my Free throws this a.m., now the kids are fed and i'm off to the gym for the last 90 minutes its open to get some hoop in. I don't mind full court, but I'd prefer 5 on 5 if we do

Ran 4 miles yesterday and got in two full court hoops games (3 on 3) which is brutal, I was walking out hands on my knees drenched in sweat and my body aching. I couldn't get off the couch at night

Best part is, i ran 6 today, did my weights, shot my Free throws this a.m., now the kids are fed and i'm off to the gym for the last 90 minutes its open to get some hoop in. I don't mind full court, but I'd prefer 5 on 5 if we do

Fantastic! You are really on track. I hope that the ball goes well today.

Fantastic! You are really on track. I hope that the ball goes well today.

the problem is the track has some serious derailment issues Tue-thu when I have to go to my office.. between the long commute and late arrival at home.. kids.. dinner.. hw.. etc.. i'm lucky to get a run in (weather permitting)

another nice morning here in Va.. off for that run before hitting the gym

I'm loving this thread, it's very motivating. :)

It's a beautiful day here, for a nice spring change, and I walked down 14th Street, end-to-end, bought a birthday card for someone, then I did some sit-ups and push-ups.

Had oatmeal for breakfast (no sugar, a drop of milk, dab of butter and some raspberry jam), drinking lots of coffee and water, was going to return something at Costco but they were closed (as were many shops, in observance of Easter). So making some chili, going to have some and then take another walk.

Trying to think about my summer, and how to plan it, what to do, etc.

Kind of a mixed bag, so to speak. Had a croissant and pain au chocolate for breakfast. But I did run 6 miles recovery in Central Park and took the dog for a ~3 mile walk. Dinner will be a little better.. I'm thinking tuna salad, though I may make it a tuna melt. :)

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Not much today. Skipped lunch but had a nice Easter dinner with wine tasting. Did go for a short walk as well.

Kind of a mixed bag, so to speak. Had a croissant and pain au chocolate for breakfast. But I did run 6 miles recovery in Central Park and took the dog for a ~3 mile walk. Dinner will be a little better.. I'm thinking tuna salad, though I may make it a tuna melt. :)

Bad! ;) Just kidding - if you are going for a tuna melt, make it count - add some sliced fresh tomatoes and some romaine lettuce, and maybe use half as much cheese as you intended.

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Not much today. Skipped lunch but had a nice Easter dinner with wine tasting. Did go for a short walk as well.

I have found that no matter how meager my chosen exercise is on any particular day, it is ALWAYS preferable to do even one set of exercises than to NOT exercise - because the point is, I DID IT, and the (good) habit is forming and as I get stronger, I can do more, more easily. :)

Further, I am finding it easier to moderate my portions and to choose healthier foods. I drank a lot of water today, also. So keep it up. :)

This weekend was horrible for me... Mr. Kipper was in the air much of the weekend, which, while that should've been good, meant that when he did get back last night, at 8 PM, most places were closed, and my eating schedule was so off-track that I'd have eaten almost anything. Add to it that I drove out to visit my parents for the weekend, and that driving back, the only place open at lunchtime that was quick was Taco Bell. If I didn't have the dogs with me, I'd have stopped elsewhere for a to-go order, but two dogs in a car when it's 60 degrees is a bad idea, even if the windows are down part-way.

So, now that I've had a horrible weekend, I'm rebooting, and am getting back on track today. I'm back to eating oatmeal for breakfast, a Lean Cuisine for lunch, plus a fat-free yogurt, and dinner will be egg whites on an english muffin or something similar.

So, now that I've had a horrible weekend, I'm rebooting, and am getting back on track today. I'm back to eating oatmeal for breakfast, a Lean Cuisine for lunch, plus a fat-free yogurt, and dinner will be egg whites on an english muffin or something similar.

Had oatmeal for breakfast, having another Tasty Bite Lentil stew for dejeuner.

By the way, just to let you know, I didn't think I was losing, that I was at an impasse - well, this morning I put my belt on - usually, it's the third notch, but today, it just slipped into the fourth notch. ^^^ And it wasn't like I had to push - it just happened naturally. And I FEEL lighter - and stronger and younger. I didn't weigh myself but I don't really feel a need at the moment. :) :) That chili I made was good - have some portions set aside for dinner this week, as you'd advised me. ^

Bad! ;) Just kidding - if you are going for a tuna melt, make it count - add some sliced fresh tomatoes and some romaine lettuce, and maybe use half as much cheese as you intended.

Best intentions.... We ended up going to a local diner last night and I went, well, overboard. I did get the tuna melt (but I started with a salad and we shared a sundae for dessert... oops) though. :)

Back on track today!

I made a bad weekend better. We've been having the worst weather lately (I've spend several Fridays in a row huddled in the master bath with the husband and the cats waiting for tornados, which knock on wood never seem to come). Being Easter we went out and bought all the stuff we'd given up for Lent. For me it was one of those big frosted cookie cakes and several bags of candy for my husband. We ate half the cookie cake and half the candy by 2PM Easter Day. It looked like it was going to be another stormy day but we got the bicycles out of the garage and rode our flats to the nearest air station and got in a good 30 minute ride before it the sky started to look scary. When we got home and put our bikes up I threw the rest of my cookie away. It smelled so good as I was taking it to the trash can that I nearly kept it. But I held my breath and dumped it. Somehow seeing it on top of coffee grounds and raw meat wrappings made it really unappetizing.

I made a bad weekend better. ... When we got home and put our bikes up I threw the rest of my cookie away. It smelled so good as I was taking it to the trash can that I nearly kept it. But I held my breath and dumped it. Somehow seeing it on top of coffee grounds and raw meat wrappings made it really unappetizing.

^ Good for you. There are some who'd chastise you for indulging but I try to always see the glass as half-full. Just the fact that you acknowledge that it was a struggle for you to do the right thing is constructive, IMHO.

I have found that no matter how meager my chosen exercise is on any particular day, it is ALWAYS preferable to do even one set of exercises than to NOT exercise - because the point is, I DID IT, and the (good) habit is forming and as I get stronger, I can do more, more easily. :)

Further, I am finding it easier to moderate my portions and to choose healthier foods. I drank a lot of water today, also. So keep it up. :)

Yes, I agree. Thanks for the encouragement.

Today I had yogurt (150 cal 2% Fage) with raw veggies and fruit for dinner. Yogurt and cereal yesterday. Im really cutting back on dinners to yogurt+ or protein drinks+ (with the plus a bit of cereal or fruits/veges) this week.

So not only have I noticed, but acquaintances are telling me they can see the difference, right? So I got on the scale this morning, and nope, the scale isn't reflecting any weight loss. :confused: And I've honestly cut back. Oh, well, we've got all summer, lol. :D

Yesterday while mall walking I was lamenting to my husband that I don't have great things in my wardrobe. I still dress a little like a fat person. Since we live in the middle of nowhere (ok, we do have a Sears, Penney's, Macy's, a local department store, and a single little Talbots) there really isn't anywhere to get more fashionable clothing. We started talking about a trip to "the big city" so that I could do some shopping.

When we got home, I decided to try on some of my old dresses (graduation dresses, homecoming dresses, college formal dresses, party dresses, etc). The first dress I tried on was this red A-line cocktail dress. It was a 6 and fit almost perfectly (and boy the boobs on me!). The next one I tried on was a black number in a size 4 which looked awesome but was a little tight in the tummy. Then I tried on the dress that I wore when my husband proposed which was kind of big (it was an 8). Then I tried on my homecoming dresses from HS (both were 4s). They were a little tight but I think that I'll be able to wear them soon! But the real kicker was the last dress. I wore it 2 years ago to the pre-wedding dinner of one of my college friends. That was when I was at my biggest. It was a cocktail dress bought in depressive protest at David's Bridal a few days before the wedding. When I put it on I couldn't believe how huge it was. When I zipped it up it slid down my torso. I then asked my husband to zip it up all the way because obviously I didn't do it all the way. He then said that it was zipped up all the way. I couldn't believe it. This dress is a strapless A-line which uses your boobs to hold it up. I've lost so much weight that my chest didn't keep it up at all. I've lost so much weight that Pamela Anderson boobs wouldn't have kept that dress up!

I've lost so much weight that Pamela Anderson boobs wouldn't have kept that dress up!

Most excellent! ^ :D I have a black pair of "blue" jeans that I wore in college many moons ago which I never discarded. When I was doing Atkins about 7 years ago, I was able to fit into them at my leanest. I believe the size is 30" 32", but I'd have to double-check - oh no, wait! I think they are 28" 32". Anyway, we'll see if I get there this time. If I don't because I add muscle, I'm not only okay with it, I'd be ecstatic.

Keep up the good work, It'sHip!

Tue-Thu are my toughest day's to work out when i'm at home so yesterday and today, i did 4-mile runs after the kids got on the bus and will do another 2-3 mile run when I get home (after feeding the kids).. No weights though on T-Th since I can't get to the gym.

tomorrow is pot luck day at the office as well as take your kid to work day.. ughh.. i just know i'm going to eat like a pig and not get much done

tomorrow is pot luck day at the office as well as take your kid to work day.. ughh.. i just know i'm going to eat like a pig and not get much done

I avoid pot luck events whenever possible. I just don't know what someone else used to cook something, how well it was prepared, etc.

The real question is, did you ever find your boxers? :D

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/omni/1206511-someone-gym-stole-my-underwear.html

I avoid pot luck events whenever possible. I just don't know what someone else used to cook something, how well it was prepared, etc.

The real question is, did you ever find your boxers? :D

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/omni/1206511-someone-gym-stole-my-underwear.html

I trust co-workers more than I do restaurant help thats for sure.

No, the answer to your other question LOL, don't want them now either :D

I trust co-workers more than I do restaurant help thats for sure.

No, the answer to your other question LOL, don't want them now either :D
I can understand why you'd trust co-workers more.

LOL, so, have your missing boxers started a twitter feed yet? :D

Today is another lunch meeting, with pizza again. However, this time, I ordered the pizza, and was able to order thin crust pizza and veggie pizza. Not wonderful, but better than nothing. :)

Today is another lunch meeting, with pizza again. However, this time, I ordered the pizza, and was able to order thin crust pizza and veggie pizza. Not wonderful, but better than nothing. :)

Very good. At least you're being choosy, which is really what's most important, IMO. ^

I am back on track now. Down 15 pounds total from when I started roughly 5 weeks ago, so three pounds per week. I'm actually quite happy with that pace, in light of the fact that I'm not really depriving myself of anything - okay, so processed foods, yes, but otherwise I'm controlling portions. And also the exercising - thinking about looking at a gym today or tomorrow where I can focus.

Have stabilized at -15-16 lb., but would like to see another 10 come off, but I'm not willing to do a crash diet - any further loss needs to be consistent with a sustainable diet/exercise life change. I think it's doable. I AM doing more physical activities for longer periods of time, and I AM continuing to look for leaks in my diet.

THAT said, as we all know, if dietary changes (from fattening to healthy) are devoid of pleasure, we won't sustain them. Period. Therefore, I might splurge one day per week (as I did on Sunday). Alternatively, I might look for ways of working in one reasonably-sized 'sinful' item per day...?

Have stabilized at -15-16 lb., but would like to see another 10 come off, but I'm not willing to do a crash diet - any further loss needs to be consistent with a sustainable diet/exercise life change. I think it's doable. I AM doing more physical activities for longer periods of time, and I AM continuing to look for leaks in my diet.

THAT said, as we all know, if dietary changes (from fattening to healthy) are devoid of pleasure, we won't sustain them. Period. Therefore, I might splurge one day per week (as I did on Sunday). Alternatively, I might look for ways of working in one reasonably-sized 'sinful' item per day...?

Have you tried just being "normal" for a few weeks. When I plateau I go off program for a few weeks. I don't make any efforts to lose weight. I eat like I think a non-dieting person would eat. Then after a few weeks of this I go back on plan and find that I lose what I've gained and more. It just important not to eat like a fat person when you are off program.

I wish I would have seen this thread when it started! The postings are not only motivating but give me some great ideas.
I am in the midst of a double ear and a sinus infection, so No workout for me today. I did, however, do my usual schedule of teaching, which means basically hustling around my class for five hours trying to attend to and speak with each of my 159 students.
As soon as possible, though, I will add back in the thrice weekly elliptical run and trying to get back on the stair master.

I shall return.... To keep getting motivated and inspired by you all.

Have you tried just being "normal" for a few weeks. When I plateau I go off program for a few weeks. I don't make any efforts to lose weight. I eat like I think a non-dieting person would eat. Then after a few weeks of this I go back on plan and find that I lose what I've gained and more. It just important not to eat like a fat person when you are off program.

Kind of a scary thought, honestly, but let me think about it. ^

Had oatmeal for breakfast and a Lean Cuisine for lunch. I'm thinking I should've had oatmeal again, since the Lean Cuisine was pretty lousy.

I've decided that if I can go from today until next Friday eating my packed lunch each work day, then I'm going to reward myself somehow.

Had oatmeal for breakfast

Had that today. ^

Though I'm not losing overall weight like I did when I was younger (but, OTOH, not gaining, either), I will say that my body looks more fit and toned than it has in years, as I've gotten more physical activity in. ^ I'm even starting to see a six-pack emerge. :)

Biked to work 4 days this week, only skipping Tuesday due to rain. After today's ride home, that'll be around 79 miles total for the week.

The hard part is not eating everything in sight now, since all this exercise makes me a lot hungrier.

Got on the scale and while I didn't feel that I should have lost anything, I actually am down one or two pounds further. ^ Perhaps that's a side benefit of learning better eating habits - losing excess weight is not an effort but a feature of adopting healthy eating habits.

Today is a relax day, but yesterday, I did calisthenics and then jogged a bit (ouch, is my knee bummed!). Dinner was baked chicken wings, petit pois and a sauteed tomato. Some white wine, too. Then a little bit of cheddar cheese for dessert. I should actually have gained a bit, since I carbed out on Sunday (and no, I didn't stress, because I'm allowed to have some fun every once in a while; in fact, occasional fun is mandatory, IMO), but I'm stable, or even down about another pound. ^

Was feeling a little down yesterday, but I saw I'm down another two pounds this week. ^ Now I'm feeling better. :)

As to what specifically I'm doing, I'm just continuing to crank away at the exercise (I even try to imagine Jillian Michaels screaming me on, harder, dig deep, DO it! :mad: , lol), pushing my sessions longer.

Dietwise, I'm continuing to look for ways to 'cheat' - cut out the empty carbs like English muffins and naan, and substitute a tablespoon or two of petit pois or corn, maybe a salad, and fish or chicken for entree. Water or white wine to go with. I never feel hungry, and I never feel bloated. Meanwhile, I have more strength and energy than I've had in years. Of course, the best part is I'm cutting a more attractive male figure. ;) I mean, that belly is basically less than half what it was.

Went for my second longest handcycle ride to date training for my upcoming bike trip! Looking forward to taper week.

I found a great way to lose weight for lazy people, like myself. I don't exercise and I don't like to starve.

Here is what I did (http://www.nomadz.net/2011/05/how-to-lose-weight-fast-without-exercise-or-eating-less/2328).

I started at 102 kg back in November of last year and did some skiing over Xmas which brought me down a notch to 100 kg. Then, in January, I started exploring this high protein, eat-a-lot diet. The first four weeks were amazing but then I hit a plateau for the following six weeks. Luckily, though, I came out the other side by sticking to it.

This morning I was down to 91.5 kg, which made me very pleased.

I haven't exercised yet but I'm planning on it. I'm hoping that this will make even more of a difference... Although I would imagine that it will increase muscle mass. I don't care, so long as the fat goes away.

I was talking to a nutritionist the other day who tells me that it takes roughly three years to retrain the body to a new, lower weight. That means a long road ahead... but it's not as bad going as I would have expected.

I found a great way to lose weight for lazy people, like myself. I don't exercise and I don't like to starve.

Here is what I did (http://www.nomadz.net/2011/05/how-to-lose-weight-fast-without-exercise-or-eating-less/2328).

I like it. Sounds a bit similar to Dukan.

Two comments:

1) I don't believe in automatic avoidance of dairy and fruit. Of course, some people are naturally lactose-intolerant, but others are not; I'd argue, some people need dairy. As to fruit, there are so many fruits with nutrients and minerals - the idea of eliminating fruit is unfathomable to me personally. I wouldn't overindulge, of course, but consumed in moderation, I enjoy fruit as a kind of natural snacks.

2) I like the idea of Binge Day. :D Someone else here brought that idea up, and as I said before, it's kind of a scary, but fun, idea. @:-) Does it really work, though?

I was "bad" today, at least for dinner, but my friend is SUCH an excellent cook at South Asian food, that I honestly could not stop eating, lol. He's a doll and really, I've been to South Asian restaurants - he blows them away, no question. Anyway, the short of it is, I'm okay with one inadvisable meal. Today was supposed to be a relax day anyway, so, I'm good. ^

I had a lovely lunch at a restaurant today: 1 french dip slider (maybe 1/3 the size of the regular sandwich?) and a side of green beans. I got the whole happy restaurant experience at probably 1/3-1/2 the calories I'd have gotten if I'd ordered a full meal.

I bet none of you know that you can actually make a third of a cup of chocolate chip cookie dough.... That's what I just did. I shouldn't have made it but I thought, "It's been so long since I've had cookie dough." My post in Kipper's thread about high fat stuff making her feel ill made me think about cookies but more specifically the dough which I LOVE.

Back in grad school, where I gained all my weight, I used to make a batch of cookie dough at least once a month (in all honesty sometimes weekly). I'd cover the dough in pastic wrap and I'd eat it one giant spoonful at a time. I'd leave for school and all day I'd think about the giant spoonfuls of cookie dough I could have if I just survived the day.

I don't remember the last time I made chocolate chip cookie dough. I'm not sure that I've even done it in my current kitchen or the kitchen before it (so perhaps 3 or more years). Sure I've made some WW cookies for parties and potlucks but not chocolate chip cookie dough -- my Waterloo.

I could have waited to see if it passed but if it hadn't my husband would be home and it would go from 1/4 of a batch to 1/2 batch to a full batch which he wants cooked. So I decided to just make it. I made about an eighth of a batch. I ate it. But it wasn't as wonderful and fulfilling as I remember it.

I think that I might be over them. My Waterloo no more!

Good day today! I am excited that the Insanity workouts no longer knock me out for hours. I got in a workout plus scrubbed my kitchen floor by hand. I think I burned more calories and worked my arms more working on the floor than I did doing Insanity.

I've continued to lose on average two pounds per week, now down 25 lb. ^ :) Also, as my body has strengthened through increased physical activity, I have lengthened my calisthenic routines easily.

By the way, I love that digital Conair/Weight Watchers scale on sale at Costco -picked one up for $20; it does a cute Biggest Loser scramble thing when you get on the scale, lol. :D

Even though my eating habits last week weren't great, I lost 0.4 pounds. I'm eating a Caesar salad (light Caesar dressing, no parmesan cheese), topped with a bit of chicken. I'm slowly picking at it, figuring that it'll help me feel full sooner.

Exercise tonight is a ton of cleaning that's piled up over the last week, because I've been too swamped to do much at home.

So I went to a party yesterday, and it was interesting - I didn't talk about much of anything (except a little light politics, the economy, etc.), since I went with a South Asian friend of mine, and everyone there was a member of his family each of which I was meeting for the first time except for a couple of them, but so much of the ambient conversation revolved around eating and weight-watching. I would say that the average BMI was about 26 or 27, whereas mine is about 20 now, I think, so I was very self-conscious, and tried to keep eating, keep my plate full, but you know, what can I do.

Just to update on my prior post, so the party continued on last Saturday and then again Sunday (two different locations). I am really grateful that I had the opportunity to meet some really sweet and friendly South Asians. :)

Having said that, I did sort of throw my dietary rules out the window for purposes of courtesy and conviviality, merely eating more slowly and watching the portions. However, I didn't manage to avoid carb-y stuff.

Anyway, long story short, over the last week, I really let go, I thought. So I got on the scale, and I am at a new low today (albeit by a mere fraction). ^ :D It's funny how when your body and mind gets started on this kind of thing, it just all comes together at some point, no matter what you do. So the bright side is, I can indulge in my weekly Thursday pig out day. ^ :D

In spite of a not-so-healthy weekend of meals, I managed to lose a pound. While I didn't get much "real" exercise in, I did spend an hour cleaning and I did move a sofa outside, for the garbage, and a new sofa and loveseat into the house. Not "real exercise," but exercise of some sort. Add to it the walking to/from the baseball games. :)

Breakfast was my usual oatmeal, although I only ate half, since I wasn't really hungry.

Over the weekend, I managed to go on a 14-mile bike ride on a whim. I volunteered to go riding, but I didn't think my father would actually take me 14 miles. On Saturday and Sunday, I hiked through Montreal, and on Monday night, I walked from Allston to the bridge for the Red Line on the Cambridge side of the Charles River. It was hot in Montreal and it's just as hot in Boston.

I started eating again. For the past eight days, I've been having weird emotional issues, plus whatever my geographical location, the temperature has been approaching that of h*ll. Ergo, I've been eating 500-600 calories a day, and exercised on six of them. I've lost eight pounds in eight days. As much as I love what the scale says, and how my clothes are fitting, I have to start eating normally again. Tonight I had chicken fingers and Ben and Jerry's Dublin Mudslide for dinner, and tomorrow I'll eat healthily again.

I started eating again. For the past eight days, I've been having weird emotional issues, plus whatever my geographical location, the temperature has been approaching that of h*ll. Ergo, I've been eating 500-600 calories a day, and exercised on six of them. I've lost eight pounds in eight days. As much as I love what the scale says, and how my clothes are fitting, I have to start eating normally again. Tonight I had chicken fingers and Ben and Jerry's Dublin Mudslide for dinner, and tomorrow I'll eat healthily again.

^ Nice. :)

The temperature in Boston is going to approach that of h*ll again this weekend. I have a feeling I'll stop eating again, though my emotional issues are stabilizing.

Yesterday was a double whammy - pigout Thursday AND a workout day. :( :p

So I did my workout, and then went out for a beer, came back feeling a little bloated, and while I could have had pizza or anything else I wanted, I just heated up three paratha breads (kind of like pappadums), and that's it. Which, IMO, underscores the notion that once you make long-term changes to your overall diet, it changes your cravings and your appetite. ^

Told my trainer yesterday that my new goal is to do a pull up. Then do some more of them. Not a short-term goal, he says, but attainable. I'll let you know when it happens!

Today I did 10 minutes of warm-up, 55 minutes on the Gravity machine, and 50 minutes on the ARC Trainer. I got on the ARC Trainer telling myself that I'd work out until SportsCenter played the Red Sox highlights. I'd hit the wrong time of SportsCenter. I'd gone to bed during the 14th inning of the game and had no idea what time it ended and with what score.

I joined Weight Watchers today.

I joined Weight Watchers today.

^ Welcome to the club! Online, or meetings?

If you have a smartphone, I highly recommend that you download their points tracker. It helps when you're dining out and trying to figure out what to eat.

I haven't been to the gym since Tuesday. I have no desire to go back. I have to, though, especially if I want to lose more weight.

On the drive home, almost talked myself out of going to the gym. All sorts of silly things like "it's too hot" (my gym is air-conditioned and indoors), "well, I should probably get home" (I have nothing pressing to do at home), "seems a bit late" (it was the same time I always go to the gym).

Just as I was about to drive by, I had a last-second change of heart and pulled into the parking lot. Now I don't regret it a bit! :) Did about 40-min of cardio and a little lifting. Felt great afterwards - so glad I made the right choice!

^ Welcome to the club! Online, or meetings?

If you have a smartphone, I highly recommend that you download their points tracker. It helps when you're dining out and trying to figure out what to eat.

Meetings, but I get access to all the e-tools as well. I don't have a smart phone, but I can use the app on my ipod touch if i'm somewhere with wifi.

On the drive home, almost talked myself out of going to the gym. All sorts of silly things like "it's too hot" (my gym is air-conditioned and indoors), "well, I should probably get home" (I have nothing pressing to do at home), "seems a bit late" (it was the same time I always go to the gym).

Just as I was about to drive by, I had a last-second change of heart and pulled into the parking lot. Now I don't regret it a bit! :) Did about 40-min of cardio and a little lifting. Felt great afterwards - so glad I made the right choice!

Good for you! ^ Next time you're making silly excuses not to go, instead tell yourself that, 'well, I can always go home if I want, at any time.' :)

I have officially lost 5% of my weight when I started Weight Watchers.

Still more to go, but considering I really slacked off for a while right after Mr. Kipper returned home from a trip, I can't complain about the amount of time it took. :)

I have officially lost 5% of my weight when I started Weight Watchers.

Still more to go, but considering I really slacked off for a while right after Mr. Kipper returned home from a trip, I can't complain about the amount of time it took. :)

Way to go! I remember how exciting it was. Let me just say that as good as 5% feels 10% feels soooo much better. I hope that you get there! The summer is always a hard time to lose since it's hard to go out in the heat to exercise. My meeting leader as suggests decreasing your salt intake so that you don't bloat.

Way to go! I remember how exciting it was. Let me just say that as good as 5% feels 10% feels soooo much better. I hope that you get there! The summer is always a hard time to lose since it's hard to go out in the heat to exercise. My meeting leader as suggests decreasing your salt intake so that you don't bloat.

Thanks. I'm trying to stay on track, although I made the mistake of baking brownies to take as dessert for dinner at a friend's house this weekend. While we only took 4 home and left most with them, Mr. Kipper failed in his job of eating all of them. :( I had one last night and one this morning. I blame the one last night on a stressful vet visit with a sick kibbler, and well, this morning, it called to me and said, "I taste so much better than oatmeal." Such is life.

Tonight, I'm back on the wagon, even if it means forcing Mr. Kipper to eat the other two brownies. :)

Thanks. I'm trying to stay on track, although I made the mistake of baking brownies to take as dessert for dinner at a friend's house this weekend. While we only took 4 home and left most with them, Mr. Kipper failed in his job of eating all of them. :( I had one last night and one this morning. I blame the one last night on a stressful vet visit with a sick kibbler, and well, this morning, it called to me and said, "I taste so much better than oatmeal." Such is life.

Tonight, I'm back on the wagon, even if it means forcing Mr. Kipper to eat the other two brownies. :)

Just throw them out. I'm a sucker for those icing covered 12 inch chocolate chip cookies (guess what I gave up for Lent!). Sometimes I'll bring one home from the grocery store. I'll eat some that night and then toss the rest of the cookie. I'll pour some wet coffee grounds on it to make it look less appetizing as it mocks me from the trash.

I'm having a bit of the tough time this summer, too. I've not had a homecooked meal since we closed on the house 3 weeks ago. The only thing keeping me thin is the 10 hours of work a day I spend fixing up that house. Unfortunately we move on Monday which means I'll be near food all day again.

Just throw them out. I'm a sucker for those icing covered 12 inch chocolate chip cookies (guess what I gave up for Lent!). Sometimes I'll bring one home from the grocery store. I'll eat some that night and then toss the rest of the cookie. I'll pour some wet coffee grounds on it to make it look less appetizing as it mocks me from the trash.

I'm having a bit of the tough time this summer, too. I've not had a homecooked meal since we closed on the house 3 weeks ago. The only thing keeping me thin is the 10 hours of work a day I spend fixing up that house. Unfortunately we move on Monday which means I'll be near food all day again.
Mr. Kipper ate them. :) I hate to waste food, so throwing out things is a big no-no for me. :)

Ugh--you haven't had a homecooked meal for 3 weeks? Yikes!

I have officially lost 5% of my weight when I started Weight Watchers.

Still more to go, but considering I really slacked off for a while right after Mr. Kipper returned home from a trip, I can't complain about the amount of time it took. :)

Great job!

I weighed in yesterday and was down 5.6 lbs after the first week. I know it was mostly water weight, but still.. I got a sticker!

Now, If I can average a pound a week for the rest of the session, I'll be a happy camper.

Mr. Kipper ate them. :) I hate to waste food, so throwing out things is a big no-no for me. :)



Next time, throw them out! Throwing things out is a first step in modifying your behaviour. Once you've thrown some stuff out (and it's been painful for you), you'll start not baking/buying it in the first place.

Remember, your body is not a trash can.

I'm also having heat and workout related issues - I've been finding every reason to not get up early and go workout. But I swam after work (around 5p) and it was 100 degrees and the pool was in the sun. Suffering through that was enough motivation to get me out of bed early. Did about 20 miles on the bike this morning, with a bit of a headwind outside. Hopefully get to the gym for lifting this afternoon.

This morning, I actually bypassed the snooze alarm and got out of bed early enough to make myself some eggs, a little bit of lowfat ham, and a piece of light toast. (normally, I'm rolling out of bed 20 minutes before I need to walk out the door) Having protein in the morning makes a huge difference in keeping me from wanting to eat constantly all day long.

Next time, throw them out! Throwing things out is a first step in modifying your behaviour. Once you've thrown some stuff out (and it's been painful for you), you'll start not baking/buying it in the first place.

Remember, your body is not a trash can.

^ Thanks for that!

I struggle with this one too.

This morning, I actually bypassed the snooze alarm and got out of bed early enough to make myself some eggs, a little bit of lowfat ham, and a piece of light toast. (normally, I'm rolling out of bed 20 minutes before I need to walk out the door) Having protein in the morning makes a huge difference in keeping me from wanting to eat constantly all day long.

I agree - starting this week I'm taking my gluten allergy seriously and have cut out all carbs. While my body misses them, my breakfast of 2 eggs and canadian bacon has held me past lunch some days. It's amazing what the switch from oatmeal and fruit has done.

Today I did PT at the gym, did two miles on the treadmill, and walked about a mile that I could have taken on public transportation. I think I'm up to 129 workouts on the year. I'm even attempting to lift weights an extra day a week.

I've lost 20 lbs from my all-time high.

I'm still plugging away at Weight Watchers. Despite dog-sitting this weekend, having a really odd schedule, because Mr. Kipper was working overtime and was up at 3:15 AM on Friday and Saturday, and eating fast food twice this weekend, along with a generally huge lunch on Saturday, I'm down a pound. :) Where I am now means I've lost a WW point for each day, which isn't a big deal. :)

I have dinner planned, and all of my meals for the day entered into my tracker.

I've also realized that I need to focus on eating something small every few hours, even if it's just fruit or veggies, as if I go too long without eating, I eat until I'm stuffed and feel lousy.

I'm still plugging away at Weight Watchers. Despite dog-sitting this weekend, having a really odd schedule, because Mr. Kipper was working overtime and was up at 3:15 AM on Friday and Saturday, and eating fast food twice this weekend, along with a generally huge lunch on Saturday, I'm down a pound. :) Where I am now means I've lost a WW point for each day, which isn't a big deal. :)

I have dinner planned, and all of my meals for the day entered into my tracker.

I've also realized that I need to focus on eating something small every few hours, even if it's just fruit or veggies, as if I go too long without eating, I eat until I'm stuffed and feel lousy.

I'm going through fruit and veggies like crazy. They are my go-to snack. If I still feel hungry after I've had a piece of fruit or some veggies, then I'll have a piece of string cheese or some popcorn.

I'm going through fruit and veggies like crazy. They are my go-to snack. If I still feel hungry after I've had a piece of fruit or some veggies, then I'll have a piece of string cheese or some popcorn.

When I first started WW, I kept the fridge stocked with fruits, but I've fallen away from that. I need to get back to it, so that I snack only on those first. :)

Today I had an hour between appointments so I went for a 45-minute walk instead of doing something else. Must go mark it down as a workout.

Today I had an hour between appointments so I went for a 45-minute walk instead of doing something else. Must go mark it down as a workout.

Good job!!!

So Costco has a special on V8, which I've always found palatable (you know, for a "healthy" beverage, lol). 28-count cases for $10.00 (using a coupon). I may even go back and get another case, and drink one for lunch (along with my fruit serving).

I'm having some real issues with jeans right now... I'm to the point that several pairs are big enough that I can pull them off/on without unbuttoning or unzipping them, but most of my other jeans are very tight and I don't want to wear them out of the house.

I'm having some real issues with jeans right now... I'm to the point that several pairs are big enough that I can pull them off/on without unbuttoning or unzipping them, but most of my other jeans are very tight and I don't want to wear them out of the house.

I'm also there - I went shopping and I'm right in between sizes, even though they're EU sizing and not the typical American 6/8/10 sizing. I think I might do a juice cleanse to hopefully knock off the last bit to push me down to the lower size, but the trick will be keeping it off. I think with the heat here it's making me swell and retain water more than normal.

I'm also there - I went shopping and I'm right in between sizes, even though they're EU sizing and not the typical American 6/8/10 sizing. I think I might do a juice cleanse to hopefully knock off the last bit to push me down to the lower size, but the trick will be keeping it off. I think with the heat here it's making me swell and retain water more than normal.
I'm very frustrated with it. I'm thrilled I've lost what I have, and I'm plugging away at losing more, but I'm frustrated that it's like nothing fits right now. I'm happy that my larger size stuff is too big, but...

Today someone had fun pushing my buttons (in the bad kind of way) so instead of throwing a hissy-fit, I decided to walk the two to three miles to my gym. I also worked out when I got there.

Today someone had fun pushing my buttons (in the bad kind of way) so instead of throwing a hissy-fit, I decided to walk the two to three miles to my gym. I also worked out when I got there.

Well done.

I had back to back workouts today, too - I lifted weights for an hour, then swam 1500 yards worth of drills.

I'm feeling proud about this week with an all time high in workouts (except for my 5 days of handcycling in France in June): 1500 swim, 1 hour weights, 7 miles track workout, 8 miles pushing the racing chair on the road, and 2 10 mile days on the handcycle.

I skipped a workout this week, and I felt horrible about it. But I'm back on track, and definitely continuing to see improvements in my health and physique. I'm even thinking about how to set the bar higher to continually challenge myself and strengthen my body and my cardiovascular system. I am up 5 pounds from my low, but it's unclear to me how much of that is unwanted fat, and how much is added muscle, since I definitely see that I've added bulk to my arms and chest.

I have been trying to get at least 15-20 min. walk after lunch everyday at work in addition to trying to fit in a gym workout at least 3-4 times a week. Have reduced eating any preserved / frozen food to a minimum. All that seems to be having at least some effect on my health - I feel a lot more energized and fresh compared to when I was not getting any exercise.....

I have a breakfast meeting for one of my organizations, and the site's breakfast menu looks packed with tons of high calorie, rich, but horrible for you foods. I've reviewed the menu several times and have decided on a veggie omelet with egg beaters with fruit instead of potatoes.

My workout has now become tres facile and I need to either incorporate other types of exercises or else add a couple reps to my routine. And to think that I could barely do a single rep of 20 situps when I began back in March, lol. :D

I managed to lose 12 lbs in three weeks in July - I don't recommend how I did it. I'd call it the "Your Epic Celebrity Crush Came Back to Haunt You Even Though You Never Technically Got Over Him in the Past Six Years" diet. I was subsisting on probably about 1100 calories a day and still working out. Now that there's a chance I might see him again in the next four months, I'm starting to eat crap again. I really have to stop that. In fact, I'm feeling nauseated from the crap I ate earlier. Blech. (Though when I see him again, I won't be able to eat, I'm sure.)

I am, however, still managing to get in five workouts a week. Cardio equipment bores me to tears these days. I'm getting back on the treadmill now that my knee hurts less, but that's the most boring cardio equipment. I don't like to walk outside the gym for exercise because I always end up walking into a store where I want to try on clothing.

Hi Guys,

Like everyone I'm getting older, and like most travellers on this site I eat too much rubbish food, drink too much and don't exercise enough when on the road... have found my weight creeping up and trousers getting tighter over the last 18 months. I used to run but have an iffy tendon in my left knee which has meant no running for the last few years, and with small kids never have enough time to get to the gym (so I'm not a member).

Anyway, we moved house 3 months ago and now have a garage, so I have finally bought myself a Concept rower - I used to row a lot back in college, so was confident that I'd use it. I'm working out about 5/6 times a week, mix of 7500m steady state (about 30 mins) and 10x500m with 1 minute rests, and find myself *incredibly* hot the whole time... I don't mean while exercising, just generally, it's like my internal thermostat has been turned up to 11.

Is this normal ? Is it just because my metabolic rate has been tweaked up so I'm running hot ? Is it likely to calm down after a while ?

Hope no-one minds me posting here, but seems like the most well-read part of the site, and this didn't seem worthy of a thread to itself...

thanks

Hi Guys,

Like everyone I'm getting older, and like most travellers on this site I eat too much rubbish food, drink too much and don't exercise enough when on the road... have found my weight creeping up and trousers getting tighter over the last 18 months. I used to run but have an iffy tendon in my left knee which has meant no running for the last few years, and with small kids never have enough time to get to the gym (so I'm not a member).

Anyway, we moved house 3 months ago and now have a garage, so I have finally bought myself a Concept rower - I used to row a lot back in college, so was confident that I'd use it. I'm working out about 5/6 times a week, mix of 7500m steady state (about 30 mins) and 10x500m with 1 minute rests, and find myself *incredibly* hot the whole time... I don't mean while exercising, just generally, it's like my internal thermostat has been turned up to 11.

Is this normal ? Is it just because my metabolic rate has been tweaked up so I'm running hot ? Is it likely to calm down after a while ?

Hope no-one minds me posting here, but seems like the most well-read part of the site, and this didn't seem worthy of a thread to itself...

thanks
Welcome to the board. :) I can't really answer your question, but I did want to say welcome!

Today, I'm back on my WW track, and am making more small changes--wheat bread for my bread option, either for toast or for my Subway sub for lunch today. :) Points are all tracked for the day, including our planned dinner. :)

My workout has now become tres facile and I need to either incorporate other types of exercises or else add a couple reps to my routine. And to think that I could barely do a single rep of 20 situps when I began back in March, lol. :D

Yea!!!!

I managed to lose 12 lbs in three weeks in July - I don't recommend how I did it. I'd call it the "Your Epic Celebrity Crush Came Back to Haunt You Even Though You Never Technically Got Over Him in the Past Six Years" diet.

Ugh.

I am, however, still managing to get in five workouts a week. Cardio equipment bores me to tears these days.

Yea! Consider swapping out some of that cardio with strength training - so satisfying, and ups your metabolism.

I am doing well on workouts, but honestly this whole year I have totally sucked at eating healthy. I need someone to come flip the "stop thinking you need some ice cream/dessert/more sugar/those potato chips/a second helping" switch in my head.

I'm working out about 5/6 times a week, mix of 7500m steady state (about 30 mins) and 10x500m with 1 minute rests, and find myself *incredibly* hot the whole time... I don't mean while exercising, just generally, it's like my internal thermostat has been turned up to 11.

Is this normal ? Is it just because my metabolic rate has been tweaked up so I'm running hot ? Is it likely to calm down after a while ?

I am not a doctor, and you really should make an appointment with your doctor ASAP, and talk with him about it. Please, please do that! :) If there is something going on that could complicate things, you really must find that out.

Personally, I just work up a sweat and really push myself, but my doctor has told me that all my signs are excellent (cholesterol and all that), and I did tell him already that I started a workout routine.

Yea! Consider swapping out some of that cardio with strength training - so satisfying, and ups your metabolism.

Don't worry, I also do strength training, but I've only been doing that once a week and I'd like to up it to twice a week.

Hi Guys,

Like everyone I'm getting older, and like most travellers on this site I eat too much rubbish food, drink too much and don't exercise enough when on the road... have found my weight creeping up and trousers getting tighter over the last 18 months. I used to run but have an iffy tendon in my left knee which has meant no running for the last few years, and with small kids never have enough time to get to the gym (so I'm not a member).

Anyway, we moved house 3 months ago and now have a garage, so I have finally bought myself a Concept rower - I used to row a lot back in college, so was confident that I'd use it. I'm working out about 5/6 times a week, mix of 7500m steady state (about 30 mins) and 10x500m with 1 minute rests, and find myself *incredibly* hot the whole time... I don't mean while exercising, just generally, it's like my internal thermostat has been turned up to 11.

Is this normal ? Is it just because my metabolic rate has been tweaked up so I'm running hot ? Is it likely to calm down after a while ?

Hope no-one minds me posting here, but seems like the most well-read part of the site, and this didn't seem worthy of a thread to itself...

thanks

Is it possible that you don't have any air flow in the garage so you're overheating? I've got an erg also and find that I get very hot on it. So much so that I bought something called a "C Breeze" that funnels air from the flywheel toward your face to create a cool breeze. You can get it here (http://www.ps-sport.net/). One thing about it - you'll need to play with the resistance, because the C Breeze does make the resistance a bit harder.

Last night, I had a conversation with my friend in Montreal, and she said she wanted a Kobo since Borders was going out of business. I had no desire to go to the gym, so I decided to walk the who-knows-how-long from my place to the Cambridgeside Galleria and get her a Kobo there. I made it almost the entire way, without music, but less than a mile away, I caught a cab from the Cambridge Marriott.

I bought her a Kobo and until she pays me back in some way (money or a concert ticket and other stuff), I own her soul ;)

Last night, I had a conversation with my friend in Montreal, and she said she wanted a Kobo since Borders was going out of business. I had no desire to go to the gym, so I decided to walk the who-knows-how-long from my place to the Cambridgeside Galleria and get her a Kobo there. I made it almost the entire way, without music, but less than a mile away, I caught a cab from the Cambridge Marriott.

I bought her a Kobo and until she pays me back in some way (money or a concert ticket and other stuff), I own her soul ;)

Did you walk back from Borders, or is that when you caught a cab?

Is it possible that you don't have any air flow in the garage so you're overheating? I've got an erg also and find that I get very hot on it. So much so that I bought something called a "C Breeze" that funnels air from the flywheel toward your face to create a cool breeze. You can get it here (http://www.ps-sport.net/). One thing about it - you'll need to play with the resistance, because the C Breeze does make the resistance a bit harder.

No, not that - I leave the door open, and actually move the erg out to the front of the garage... I'm still sweating like a barsteward during/after the row, but this being hot is long long after. I rowed this morning, and I'm sitting at work 8 hours later feeling like I'm radiating heat :D

To anonplz's point, I feel absolutely fine, I'm just very warm.

Did you walk back from Borders, or is that when you caught a cab?

I think it's about five miles from my place to the Cambridgeside Galleria, so I walked four miles, then took a cab, then took the T home. The T took so long I listened to almost an entire double-sided album.

I went running on the treadmill today. It hurt only as much as my usual forgetting to breathe when I run. That was an awesome feeling.

Today? Fish soup for breakfast@:-)

Today? Fish soup for breakfast@:-)

That doesn't sound all that breakfasty.

Since this is my free day, I had a buttered paratha for brkfst, a cheeseburger for lunch and some carne asada tacos (and quesadilla) for dinner.

Had an egg-white and turkey sausage wake up wrap from Dunkin Donuts for breakfast and a chargrilled chicken sandwich from Chick-fil-a for lunch. Dinner tonight will be my leftovers from the other night.

Have a doctor's appointment scheduled on Thursday, and am hoping to finally get some answers as to why I'm always exhausted and in pain.

I have made a few simple changes that have had a good impact:

no soda

no sweets (aside from fruit)

and minimize processed foods


I am not 100% perfect, but these changes have been beneficial.

My weight has gone back up 5 pounds from my low, but I feel healthy and look good, and I'm happy with my diet. I do want to work on my belly - I lost a lot there, too, but it still doesn't look right to me, still a little paunchy.

I haven't eaten out since Saturday. I've not been able to accomplish that since July.

I haven't eaten out since Saturday. I've not been able to accomplish that since July.

Desk job and eating out usually 5 lunches a week has been my downfall.

I did an hour with the trainer and a 45-minute spin class on Wednesday, and haven't worked out since then. Even so, I hit a MAJOR weight milestone. The first digit on the scale has gone down.

I did an hour with the trainer and a 45-minute spin class on Wednesday, and haven't worked out since then. Even so, I hit a MAJOR weight milestone. The first digit on the scale has gone down.

That's wonderful! What an accomplishment - well done.

Yesterday I did a PiYo class during lunch. I think that I will continue doing that every Friday and I am thinking of picking up a Pilates class, too.

I did an hour with the trainer and a 45-minute spin class on Wednesday, and haven't worked out since then. Even so, I hit a MAJOR weight milestone. The first digit on the scale has gone down.

Congrats! Great milestone to achieve.

Busted through my 5% Goal at my Weight Watchers weigh in today! WOO!!

Busted through my 5% Goal at my Weight Watchers weigh in today! WOO!!

You go!!!

Busted through my 5% Goal at my Weight Watchers weigh in today! WOO!!

Terrific!!!! Congrats!!! :) ^

I have been diagnosed with Plantar Fascitis and thus, any steps are excruciatingly painful. Moreover, I have to sleep in a night splint, which is a fancy name for a boot.
I gained weight during the time I was unable to walk due to my spinal stenosis. Ultimately had spine surgery in March. Got right back to exercise (never did drop my Pilates program). Two more strikes: Cataract surgery-- good news is my vision is better....bad news, no exercise . Now Plantar Fascitis and was told no stairs, no walking and my opthomologist is still telling me not to swim. Left eye was operated on 3 weeks ago... right one is on 9/27.
In the meantime, I have gained weight. Am very frustrated. OTOH, my back surgery was a phenomenal success as was my 1st cataract surgery. Now, if only if I didn't feel as if I had a metal spike in my heel, I would be golden.
Nice reading about all of your accomplishments.

I have been diagnosed with Plantar Fascitis and thus, any steps are excruciatingly painful. Moreover, I have to sleep in a night splint, which is a fancy name for a boot.
I gained weight during the time I was unable to walk due to my spinal stenosis. Ultimately had spine surgery in March. Got right back to exercise (never did drop my Pilates program). Two more strikes: Cataract surgery-- good news is my vision is better....bad news, no exercise . Now Plantar Fascitis and was told no stairs, no walking and my opthomologist is still telling me not to swim. Left eye was operated on 3 weeks ago... right one is on 9/27.
In the meantime, I have gained weight. Am very frustrated. OTOH, my back surgery was a phenomenal success as was my 1st cataract surgery. Now, if only if I didn't feel as if I had a metal spike in my heel, I would be golden.
Nice reading about all of your accomplishments.
Ouch! I've had that, but apparently not nearly as severe, because my walking wasn't limited and I didn't need to sleep in a splint. Did they give you a shot of cortisone in your foot? That helped me enough that I could then start the stretching they suggested.

Ouch! I've had that, but apparently not nearly as severe, because my walking wasn't limited and I didn't need to sleep in a splint. Did they give you a shot of cortisone in your foot? That helped me enough that I could then start the stretching they suggested.

Thanks Kipper. I have a Dr's appt today and I suspect we will discuss cortisone . I am wary of cortisone because I had several epidural nerve blocks (cortisone) for my back and developed some awful side effects. That is why I wound up having spinal decompression surgery.

Thanks Kipper. I have a Dr's appt today and I suspect we will discuss cortisone . I am wary of cortisone because I had several epidural nerve blocks (cortisone) for my back and developed some awful side effects. That is why I wound up having spinal decompression surgery.

My only side effects were that it hurt like, well, enough that I was in tears by the end of the day from the pain. The shot itself hurt enough that I believe I told the doctor, "When I get down from the ceiling, I'll show you, 'this might hurt a little.'" :) Then, after that, within about 6 hours or so, my entire foot hurt. After that night though, it was much more tolerable, and within a few days, it was down to no pain.

The stretches they'll show you really do help quite a bit. If you can do the stretches a few times a day, it should go away. The cortisone is really, IMO, just a temporary way to reduce the pain so that you can stretch.

Good luck!!!

I have been diagnosed with Plantar Fascitis and thus, any steps are excruciatingly painful. Moreover, I have to sleep in a night splint, which is a fancy name for a boot.
I gained weight during the time I was unable to walk due to my spinal stenosis. Ultimately had spine surgery in March. Got right back to exercise (never did drop my Pilates program). Two more strikes: Cataract surgery-- good news is my vision is better....bad news, no exercise . Now Plantar Fascitis and was told no stairs, no walking and my opthomologist is still telling me not to swim. Left eye was operated on 3 weeks ago... right one is on 9/27.
In the meantime, I have gained weight. Am very frustrated. OTOH, my back surgery was a phenomenal success as was my 1st cataract surgery. Now, if only if I didn't feel as if I had a metal spike in my heel, I would be golden.
Nice reading about all of your accomplishments.

My plantar fascitis went away when I lots my extra weight. Granted mine wasn't as bad as yours sounds. Have you thought about joining Weight Watchers? That will help you get some of the weight off so you can hit the ground running. Since you can't swim, do you think that you'd be able to bike? You'd be able to keep the weight off your feet while still getting some exercise.

Got 2 shots of cortisone in my heel today. Already feels a little better. Still have to wear night splint. :(

Got 2 shots of cortisone in my heel today. Already feels a little better. Still have to wear night splint. :(

Once it really feels better, jump into the stretches that they gave you. Well, I'm assuming they told you to stretch it. If they didn't give you stretches, let me know and I'll PM you with what they told me to do. Three times a day, and it'll be much better before you know it! :)

Thanks, Kipper. I have been doing stretches along with my Pilates stretches (which I have been doing for over 30years)....I love when Dr's compliment me on my flexibility.
Rolling the bad foot on a bottle of frozen water a couple of times a day is very good.
I have to say that I am already feeling positive effects from the cortisone injections.^. I'm going to try recumbent bike tomorrow.

I've signed up for my first charity ride! I've been biking 20 miles a day to and from work 3-5 days a week most weeks. The options for the ride lengths were 10, 30, and 50 miles. Decided that 10 wasn't a challenge as that was my commute one way, 30 also wouldn't be a challenge as I typically do 20 a day when I ride, sometimes more if I'm running errands. So I signed up for the 50 mile one. Here's to hoping I can complete it in the time allotment! Now to train and raise the funds...

Sorry to hear about the plantar fasciitis and cataract-related exercise restriction, but great news about your vision being better after surgery!

I hope that the foot gets better soon, and that you have the patience and endurance NOT to start exercising it too soon!

Thanks for the kind words, Katja.

I've signed up for my first charity ride! I've been biking 20 miles a day to and from work 3-5 days a week most weeks. The options for the ride lengths were 10, 30, and 50 miles. Decided that 10 wasn't a challenge as that was my commute one way, 30 also wouldn't be a challenge as I typically do 20 a day when I ride, sometimes more if I'm running errands. So I signed up for the 50 mile one. Here's to hoping I can complete it in the time allotment! Now to train and raise the funds...

Are you riding 20 miles EACH way to work, or 20 miles round trip?

I do one charity ride per year (so far), which also has multiple options (33 miles, 55 miles, 67 miles, 100 miles). Last year I did the 33, and this year agonized about maybe increasing it, but decided that I'm not really an endurance person, and 33 miles is far enough.

How long till the ride? Have a great time!

Are you riding 20 miles EACH way to work, or 20 miles round trip?

I do one charity ride per year (so far), which also has multiple options (33 miles, 55 miles, 67 miles, 100 miles). Last year I did the 33, and this year agonized about maybe increasing it, but decided that I'm not really an endurance person, and 33 miles is far enough.

How long till the ride? Have a great time!

20 miles round trip.
The ride is in 2 weeks. I've done a number of weekend rides that were between 30 and 40 miles and never felt bad during or after them, so I think I can do the 50 miler. Fortunatley, the 30 mile and 50 mile routes over lap some, so if I can't do the 50 mile one, I can cross onto the 30 mile route.

20 miles round trip.
The ride is in 2 weeks. I've done a number of weekend rides that were between 30 and 40 miles and never felt bad during or after them, so I think I can do the 50 miler. Fortunatley, the 30 mile and 50 mile routes over lap some, so if I can't do the 50 mile one, I can cross onto the 30 mile route.

Sounds like you'll be good - enjoy the ride!

I've added another set to my every other day routine, and made it a little more challenging - for example, putting another pillow underneath my lower back to force myself to sit up from a lower angle. At some point soon, I'm going to really feel compelled to start using weights, to keep it ever-more challenging, as I find that my routine has gotten really boring.

I've signed up for my first charity ride! I've been biking 20 miles a day to and from work 3-5 days a week most weeks. The options for the ride lengths were 10, 30, and 50 miles. Decided that 10 wasn't a challenge as that was my commute one way, 30 also wouldn't be a challenge as I typically do 20 a day when I ride, sometimes more if I'm running errands. So I signed up for the 50 mile one. Here's to hoping I can complete it in the time allotment! Now to train and raise the funds...

I did it! Actually finished way ahead of the time allotment: 50 miles in 4 hours (5.5hr allotted) including a couple of stops for food and water. There were a couple of road bikers very amused that I was attempting the 50 miler on a hybrid and one without clipped or clipless pedals. There were a couple of long climbs on the route, but I managed to complete every one of them (in first gear, but that still counts!). A bit tired now, but I feel very proud of myself. Never thought I would have done when I first bought my bike in April.

Wow, what a great accomplishment! You must be feeling super.

So, clipless pedals next on the agenda?

I did it! Actually finished way ahead of the time allotment: 50 miles in 4 hours (5.5hr allotted) including a couple of stops for food and water. There were a couple of road bikers very amused that I was attempting the 50 miler on a hybrid and one without clipped or clipless pedals. There were a couple of long climbs on the route, but I managed to complete every one of them (in first gear, but that still counts!). A bit tired now, but I feel very proud of myself. Never thought I would have done when I first bought my bike in April.

Wow, that is TERRIFIC!!! Way to go. :) ^