I have decided to take a brief hiatus from weighing in each week. I'm still part of Weight Watchers and I'm still doing my best to follow the program, but my body has been going through some weird stuff lately.
It may be from our trip to Prince Edward County and all the delicious food we ate, but I've been feeling off recently. To look at me, I don't appear to be any heavier (and have, in fact, been asked if I've lost weight and told that I look really good) but when I get on the scale the number keeps going up.
One culprit, I'm sure, is that I feel backed up, so clearly I need more fibre in my diet. But there are other things I need to change and I need to spend some time focusing on that and not worrying about what the scale will say each week.
So what's my plan? I'm still figuring it all out, but it will involve smoothies, more fruit, more fibre, regular exercise, more weightlifting all while still treating myself when I want. I also want to keep up the good habits I have, like how much water I drink, walking whenever I can, lifting weights while watching TV and eating vegetables/salads every chance I get.
I'm not doing a detox or a cleanse; rather, I see this as a reset, a way to get myself - mind, body and soul - back to a place where I'm happy and comfortable and confident. And knowing that I have to get on the scale each Wednesday has been stressing me out of late so I need to step away and focus more on myself, rather than the numbers.
But I'll still post here, even if it isn't about my weight. And I'll be back with a weigh-in on Wednesday May 22.
Cheers!
Showing posts with label exercise. Show all posts
Showing posts with label exercise. Show all posts
Friday, April 12, 2013
Monday, April 1, 2013
A beautiful day for a run
Ha, just kidding! Happy April Fool's Day!
Today was actually a terrible day for a run but I still manages to do it, no foolin'!
We're at the Beau's folks for a couple of nights before heading off to Prince Edward County for a few nights. I'm bringing my running gear to PEC but who knows if I'll actually use it so I wanted to get a run in today. It was a frosty -13 this morning an the winds were at 40 km/he and I was damn chilly and my lungs hurt but I'm pretty proud of myself for doing it!
This is what it looked like on my run - brrr:
Today was actually a terrible day for a run but I still manages to do it, no foolin'!
We're at the Beau's folks for a couple of nights before heading off to Prince Edward County for a few nights. I'm bringing my running gear to PEC but who knows if I'll actually use it so I wanted to get a run in today. It was a frosty -13 this morning an the winds were at 40 km/he and I was damn chilly and my lungs hurt but I'm pretty proud of myself for doing it!
This is what it looked like on my run - brrr:
Saturday, February 9, 2013
WW Weigh-In #57
It's a late post again, but I did get on the scale Wednesday morning.
Last week: 195.2 lb
This week: 194.0 lb
Total lost: 1.2 lb
That's a bit better.
So how am I doing just being active? Wednesday I spent a good four hours walking - sure, it was walking around the mall but it was still four hours of walking. Thursday saw a workout with free weights and 40 minutes on the exercise bike. Friday I was home late and didn't have time to fit in a good workout but today I'm planning a nice walk to my optometrist (an hour round trip) and bowling tonight! BOWLING! I love bowling!
And tomorrow I want another good weights workout. So overall I'm doing all right...so far.
Last week: 195.2 lb
This week: 194.0 lb
Total lost: 1.2 lb
That's a bit better.
So how am I doing just being active? Wednesday I spent a good four hours walking - sure, it was walking around the mall but it was still four hours of walking. Thursday saw a workout with free weights and 40 minutes on the exercise bike. Friday I was home late and didn't have time to fit in a good workout but today I'm planning a nice walk to my optometrist (an hour round trip) and bowling tonight! BOWLING! I love bowling!
And tomorrow I want another good weights workout. So overall I'm doing all right...so far.
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
My new fitness plan
How many times have I blogged about my latest and greatest plans for fitness and building an active lifestyle? I'd look up those posts, but frankly I'm embarrassed. I've had so many wonderful ideas that have only ever been that: I was going to get up early and exercise before work (nope - I like sleep); I was going to run regularly (this did happen - then allergies and inability to breathe kicked in); I was going to go to the gym five days a week (also happened - but I'm tired of my work gym).
So now what?
The current plan is to be active, at least five days a week. Just some kind of active. Get on the bike we have at home, go for a walk, go for a run, take a class - just be active. I'm going to try to fit something into Mondays and Tuesdays but because I work late on those days, I'm going to cut myself some slack if it doesn't happen. But if the weather is nice I'm going to at least try to get outside for a walk.
I'm also looking into classes at various gyms near my house. So far I've found zumba, spin and yoga that are offered at times I can make in locations that are close. I'm also going to get a new, nicer gym bag (so far I've been using an old one of the Beau's) and I'm going to reevaluate my workout wardrobe. If I have the pieces I need and something good to carry them in, I can make these workouts happen.
But I'm going to go easy on myself for now: just be active. I love the idea of long, hard, sweaty workouts every day but I need to face up to reality and admit to what I'll actually do. And I want to fit other things into my life, like knitting and wedding planning and seeing my fiance.
No matter what, though, I am totally capable of just being active.
So very simple.
So now what?
The current plan is to be active, at least five days a week. Just some kind of active. Get on the bike we have at home, go for a walk, go for a run, take a class - just be active. I'm going to try to fit something into Mondays and Tuesdays but because I work late on those days, I'm going to cut myself some slack if it doesn't happen. But if the weather is nice I'm going to at least try to get outside for a walk.
I'm also looking into classes at various gyms near my house. So far I've found zumba, spin and yoga that are offered at times I can make in locations that are close. I'm also going to get a new, nicer gym bag (so far I've been using an old one of the Beau's) and I'm going to reevaluate my workout wardrobe. If I have the pieces I need and something good to carry them in, I can make these workouts happen.
But I'm going to go easy on myself for now: just be active. I love the idea of long, hard, sweaty workouts every day but I need to face up to reality and admit to what I'll actually do. And I want to fit other things into my life, like knitting and wedding planning and seeing my fiance.
No matter what, though, I am totally capable of just being active.
So very simple.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
WW Weigh-In #55
Oh hey, how's it going? Here it is, already Wednesday again. And Wednesdays mean the scale and I wasn't sure how to feel about it this week. Fortunately, 'twas good news.
Last week: 194.2 lb
This week: 192.6 lb
Total lost: 1.6 lb
You know, it's only taken me a year to realize this, but I'm finally beginning to accept the hard work that will have to go into losing the weight I want to lose and maintaining that weight loss. When I first started Weight Watchers, the first 10 pounds came off so quickly, which really was just the result of not eating like crap. The next five were not too bad but ever since then it's been a struggle and I know it's because I got cocky and started to ignore the hard work I'd have to keep doing to keep up the momentum.
And it was great to have that success but I stopped appreciating how hard it really was going to be and that's why I've been on such a weight roller coaster for the last eight months. So maybe this is the mental breakthrough that will FINALLY help me get on - and stay on - the right track. \
I know where I want to be but so far I've refused to accept that it's not only going to be hard but that it's going to continue to be hard. But hard is not synonymous with bad; it's just something I will have to work at.
Eventually, healthy eating and making the right choices will be habit for me and I'll make exercise a regular part of my life and then it will be easy. But until then it will take work, it will be hard, it will be a challenge.
Good thing I like a challenge.
Last week: 194.2 lb
This week: 192.6 lb
Total lost: 1.6 lb
You know, it's only taken me a year to realize this, but I'm finally beginning to accept the hard work that will have to go into losing the weight I want to lose and maintaining that weight loss. When I first started Weight Watchers, the first 10 pounds came off so quickly, which really was just the result of not eating like crap. The next five were not too bad but ever since then it's been a struggle and I know it's because I got cocky and started to ignore the hard work I'd have to keep doing to keep up the momentum.
And it was great to have that success but I stopped appreciating how hard it really was going to be and that's why I've been on such a weight roller coaster for the last eight months. So maybe this is the mental breakthrough that will FINALLY help me get on - and stay on - the right track. \
I know where I want to be but so far I've refused to accept that it's not only going to be hard but that it's going to continue to be hard. But hard is not synonymous with bad; it's just something I will have to work at.
Eventually, healthy eating and making the right choices will be habit for me and I'll make exercise a regular part of my life and then it will be easy. But until then it will take work, it will be hard, it will be a challenge.
Good thing I like a challenge.
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
WW Weigh-In #52 - Happy New Year!
Welcome to 2013! I hope everyone had a happy, healthy, fun-filled holiday season.
2012 was a great big year for me, what with buying a house and getting engaged, and that awesomeness is going to continue in 2013 since we've got a wedding to plan and a house to continue making a home.
But since it's also Wednesday, it's a weigh-in day for me. Today also marks week 52 of my WW journey - a full year! It would have been amazing to get on the scale this morning and see a nice low number but it was not to be:
Two weeks ago: 189.0 lb
This week: 196.6 lb
Total gained: 7.6 lb
Egad! That was a little more than I expected and, let's face it, a bit of an embarrassment. But - BUT - I know from experience that it's easy to lose those first five pounds simply by eating normally again. And that, combined with more diligent point-tracking, will help me get the excess holiday weight off quickly.
I also need to start exercising again, not just for weight loss but to do away with my back pain and tight muscles. I feel so good when I exercise so it amazes me a bit how lazy I've become with it. My walking plan hasn't panned out yet but that doesn't mean it won't! It really is just a matter of overcoming my own laziness.
And there's lots to share about the wedding and I need to post some pictures of our house and how we've decorated it. It's all so very exciting so here's to a fabulous 2013!
2012 was a great big year for me, what with buying a house and getting engaged, and that awesomeness is going to continue in 2013 since we've got a wedding to plan and a house to continue making a home.
But since it's also Wednesday, it's a weigh-in day for me. Today also marks week 52 of my WW journey - a full year! It would have been amazing to get on the scale this morning and see a nice low number but it was not to be:
Two weeks ago: 189.0 lb
This week: 196.6 lb
Total gained: 7.6 lb
Egad! That was a little more than I expected and, let's face it, a bit of an embarrassment. But - BUT - I know from experience that it's easy to lose those first five pounds simply by eating normally again. And that, combined with more diligent point-tracking, will help me get the excess holiday weight off quickly.
I also need to start exercising again, not just for weight loss but to do away with my back pain and tight muscles. I feel so good when I exercise so it amazes me a bit how lazy I've become with it. My walking plan hasn't panned out yet but that doesn't mean it won't! It really is just a matter of overcoming my own laziness.
And there's lots to share about the wedding and I need to post some pictures of our house and how we've decorated it. It's all so very exciting so here's to a fabulous 2013!
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
WW Weigh-In #44
I'm back on the scale this week!
Last week: N/A
Two weeks ago: 188.2 lb
This week: 189.4
Total gained this week: 1.2 lb
Honestly that's about what I expected. I've treated my body so poorly over the past couple of weeks and, I'll admit, I'm having a really hard time getting back into any kind of routine. I know I just need to force myself so that's the plan tomorrow. Even if it's just for a walk, at least it's something.
The house is coming along nicely, though, and I spent a good portion of today carting boxes of books from the basement to the main floor (cardio + strength training, am I right?!). And the election kept me out pretty late last night - I didn't get home until 4:30 this morning. So I'm pretty tired tonight.
I'm still aiming for 185 lb by the end of the year - and with the Christmas season approaching that will be a challenge. But I know me: once I start making time for exercise my body will want food that will keep it fueled for more exercise...and the upward spiral will start.
I just need to get back to the gym!
Last week: N/A
Two weeks ago: 188.2 lb
This week: 189.4
Total gained this week: 1.2 lb
Honestly that's about what I expected. I've treated my body so poorly over the past couple of weeks and, I'll admit, I'm having a really hard time getting back into any kind of routine. I know I just need to force myself so that's the plan tomorrow. Even if it's just for a walk, at least it's something.
The house is coming along nicely, though, and I spent a good portion of today carting boxes of books from the basement to the main floor (cardio + strength training, am I right?!). And the election kept me out pretty late last night - I didn't get home until 4:30 this morning. So I'm pretty tired tonight.
I'm still aiming for 185 lb by the end of the year - and with the Christmas season approaching that will be a challenge. But I know me: once I start making time for exercise my body will want food that will keep it fueled for more exercise...and the upward spiral will start.
I just need to get back to the gym!
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
WW Weigh-In #40
So the scale went up a little this week:
Last week: 187.8 lb
This week: 188.4 lb
Total gained this week: 0.6 lb
Weight loss target: 181.8 lb
To reach target: 6.6
On the one hand, that's not too bad considering we just had Thanksgiving weekend and I had three (THREE!) huge dinners as well as ample breakfasts, sweets and wine. Going up just over half a pound is not too bad.
On the other hand, though, I'm still not getting to where I need to be. And that is completely my fault and my laziness and I make excuses every week for that and then don't seem to be able to do enough about it.
But I mentioned last week I had a new exercise plan in mind so I figured I'll share it now. I've done it a couple of times and I definitely feel it so now that I've got a straight stretch between now and Christmas, it's the perfect time to get back on a regular workout schedule.
My plan:
Daily: 30-40 minutes of walking, either outside or on a treadmill.
Every other day: three sets of 5 pushups; 10 squats; 20 bicycle sit-ups; and 10 lunges.
I've also been noticing that my breathing is getting better so I'm hoping to start running again and to replace two weekly walks with two weekly runs. But definitely the walking. Even though I like how my body responds to running, walking is something I can do anywhere, at any time, with nothing more than comfy shoes and proper outdoor gear (if needed). And I keep reading weight loss success stories where walking played a huge part. I guess I dismissed it because it's not as "glamourous" as running, but it's still so good for me and when I ramp it up to 4 mph on the treadmill (and make sure I do that when outside) I feel like it's a good place to pick up exercising again,
And it's a lot harder to make excuses not to do it. After all, I have been walking since I was around a year old.
Last week: 187.8 lb
This week: 188.4 lb
Total gained this week: 0.6 lb
Weight loss target: 181.8 lb
To reach target: 6.6
On the one hand, that's not too bad considering we just had Thanksgiving weekend and I had three (THREE!) huge dinners as well as ample breakfasts, sweets and wine. Going up just over half a pound is not too bad.
On the other hand, though, I'm still not getting to where I need to be. And that is completely my fault and my laziness and I make excuses every week for that and then don't seem to be able to do enough about it.
But I mentioned last week I had a new exercise plan in mind so I figured I'll share it now. I've done it a couple of times and I definitely feel it so now that I've got a straight stretch between now and Christmas, it's the perfect time to get back on a regular workout schedule.
My plan:
Daily: 30-40 minutes of walking, either outside or on a treadmill.
Every other day: three sets of 5 pushups; 10 squats; 20 bicycle sit-ups; and 10 lunges.
I've also been noticing that my breathing is getting better so I'm hoping to start running again and to replace two weekly walks with two weekly runs. But definitely the walking. Even though I like how my body responds to running, walking is something I can do anywhere, at any time, with nothing more than comfy shoes and proper outdoor gear (if needed). And I keep reading weight loss success stories where walking played a huge part. I guess I dismissed it because it's not as "glamourous" as running, but it's still so good for me and when I ramp it up to 4 mph on the treadmill (and make sure I do that when outside) I feel like it's a good place to pick up exercising again,
And it's a lot harder to make excuses not to do it. After all, I have been walking since I was around a year old.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
WW Weigh-In #39
It's a holding pattern folks!
Last week: 187.8 lb
This week: 187.8 lb
Total lost this week: 0.0 lb
Weight loss target: 181.8 lb
To reach target: 6.0 lb
I've been thinking a lot about my exercise habits and how, well, lacking they have been of late. Ever since my allergies and asthma conspired to keep me from running, I've really slacked off on working out. So I'm working on a new plan. I have it figured out in my head and I plan to start it today.
What is it, you ask?
I'm not going to share just yet because I have this habit of making all kinds of promises and resolutions and new plans on this blog and then not following through. So I want to make sure I at least get started on my new exercise plan before I commit to anything. I just want to avoid looking too flaky, you know?
But I'll share soon, I promise.
Last week: 187.8 lb
This week: 187.8 lb
Total lost this week: 0.0 lb
Weight loss target: 181.8 lb
To reach target: 6.0 lb
I've been thinking a lot about my exercise habits and how, well, lacking they have been of late. Ever since my allergies and asthma conspired to keep me from running, I've really slacked off on working out. So I'm working on a new plan. I have it figured out in my head and I plan to start it today.
What is it, you ask?
I'm not going to share just yet because I have this habit of making all kinds of promises and resolutions and new plans on this blog and then not following through. So I want to make sure I at least get started on my new exercise plan before I commit to anything. I just want to avoid looking too flaky, you know?
But I'll share soon, I promise.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
WW Weigh-In #38
Woo hoo! I managed to lose two weeks in a row! It's been awhile since I've done this!
Last week: 188.4 lb
This week: 187.8 lb
Total lost this week: 0.6 lb
Weight loss target: 181.8 lb
To reach target: 6.0 lb
I've got to say I'm pretty happy right now. And being within 6 lb of my next goal (very familiar territory!) I've got the renewed vigour to get there.
One thing I need to do more of is exercise. Since my allergies kicked in I've been shirking all cardio, not just running. As much as I complain about the elliptical, 30 minutes while reading trashy magazines is not that much of a hardship. And it will help with the condo-selling anxiety so I just need to do it.
Next week, down a full pound!
Last week: 188.4 lb
This week: 187.8 lb
Total lost this week: 0.6 lb
Weight loss target: 181.8 lb
To reach target: 6.0 lb
I've got to say I'm pretty happy right now. And being within 6 lb of my next goal (very familiar territory!) I've got the renewed vigour to get there.
One thing I need to do more of is exercise. Since my allergies kicked in I've been shirking all cardio, not just running. As much as I complain about the elliptical, 30 minutes while reading trashy magazines is not that much of a hardship. And it will help with the condo-selling anxiety so I just need to do it.
Next week, down a full pound!
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
New ways to measure progress
My allergies are still pretty bad so running is on the back burner indefinitely. The good news is that I'm over my initial funk and I'm planning to lace up my sneakers again as soon as my lungs allow.
Until then, I've decided to find new ways to measure progress. If I can't count distance or running time, I'll measure something else, dammit!
So what am I going to measure?
Firstly, push-ups. I can do 15 of them - just not in a row. But when I do three sets of weights, I do five push-ups at the end of each set and my arms are dying when I'm done but it's worth it. I want to be able to do 10 push-ups in one go, 15 after that and then...the sky's the limit!
(But first 10. Let's not get carried away or anything.)
Secondly, planks. I want to be able to hold one for one full minute. I tend to max out at 30 seconds, but it's me counting 30 seconds, which I'm sure is a bit of a cheat. I'll have to get the Beau to time me or at least get real clock to measure. But one minute for a plank is where it's at.
And thirdly, sleep. (Bet you didn't see THAT coming!) I want to start making sure I get enough sleep each night and that I'm properly rested. Getting enough sleep is important not just for weight loss but for happy living in general - because I'm a grump when I'm tired. My job makes a regular waking schedule hard but I'm starting to wake up around 8:30 most mornings on my own, which is when I need to get up for work anyways so that's good. I just need to be diligent about going to bed at the same time each night (as much as possible) and actually relaxing myself enough to sleep through the night.
I'm still going to weigh in, of course, and hopefully the scale keeps going down. And when I start running again I'm going to focus on time and distance and get up to regular 3km runs. It will be interesting to see what I can achieve first!
Until then, I've decided to find new ways to measure progress. If I can't count distance or running time, I'll measure something else, dammit!
So what am I going to measure?
Firstly, push-ups. I can do 15 of them - just not in a row. But when I do three sets of weights, I do five push-ups at the end of each set and my arms are dying when I'm done but it's worth it. I want to be able to do 10 push-ups in one go, 15 after that and then...the sky's the limit!
(But first 10. Let's not get carried away or anything.)
Secondly, planks. I want to be able to hold one for one full minute. I tend to max out at 30 seconds, but it's me counting 30 seconds, which I'm sure is a bit of a cheat. I'll have to get the Beau to time me or at least get real clock to measure. But one minute for a plank is where it's at.
And thirdly, sleep. (Bet you didn't see THAT coming!) I want to start making sure I get enough sleep each night and that I'm properly rested. Getting enough sleep is important not just for weight loss but for happy living in general - because I'm a grump when I'm tired. My job makes a regular waking schedule hard but I'm starting to wake up around 8:30 most mornings on my own, which is when I need to get up for work anyways so that's good. I just need to be diligent about going to bed at the same time each night (as much as possible) and actually relaxing myself enough to sleep through the night.
I'm still going to weigh in, of course, and hopefully the scale keeps going down. And when I start running again I'm going to focus on time and distance and get up to regular 3km runs. It will be interesting to see what I can achieve first!
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Back to the beginning
I'm pretty frustrated with my weight gain lately. It just really sucks. And I know why it's happening and I'm just being really stubborn about accepting why and doing anything about it.
So it's time to go back to the beginning.
When I first started Weight Watchers, I not only tracked everything I ate, but I also strove to not use up any activity points. I was even wary of using up my extra 49 weekly points, but I learned I could and still lose weight. I just felt better seeing those extra activity points still hanging around, unused, as if saying, "You could have eaten me, but you didn't! Good for you!"
I know I'm supposed to use up those points; WW is structured that way so I'll still lose weight even if I have zero extra points at the end of each week. I also know it's a psychological thing with me, having those activity points left over.
But the kicker? Back when I was doing that, I was enjoying what I was eating, I didn't feel deprived, I was working out frequently enough to feel good but not so much to feel over-extended - in short, everything was great.
So what the heck happened?
Simple: I got lazy. I started taking things for granted. I started cheating on tracking points. I started assuming I knew how to make the right decisions.
Time to stop doing all that and refresh this weight loss journey. Time to stop making excuses. Time to start being honest with myself.
And time to start losing weight again!
So it's time to go back to the beginning.
When I first started Weight Watchers, I not only tracked everything I ate, but I also strove to not use up any activity points. I was even wary of using up my extra 49 weekly points, but I learned I could and still lose weight. I just felt better seeing those extra activity points still hanging around, unused, as if saying, "You could have eaten me, but you didn't! Good for you!"
I know I'm supposed to use up those points; WW is structured that way so I'll still lose weight even if I have zero extra points at the end of each week. I also know it's a psychological thing with me, having those activity points left over.
But the kicker? Back when I was doing that, I was enjoying what I was eating, I didn't feel deprived, I was working out frequently enough to feel good but not so much to feel over-extended - in short, everything was great.
So what the heck happened?
Simple: I got lazy. I started taking things for granted. I started cheating on tracking points. I started assuming I knew how to make the right decisions.
Time to stop doing all that and refresh this weight loss journey. Time to stop making excuses. Time to start being honest with myself.
And time to start losing weight again!
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Couch to 5K update
Well hello! I hope you're all doing well this fine Tuesday afternoon!
Remember how I started the Couch to 5K program? Well, I'm still with it. The first three weeks were a little easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy and today I start week 4.
Last week, the running portion of each workout maxed out at nine minutes. Today, I'm facing a running portion of 16 minutes. Given, it's broken up into more manageable intervals, but suddenly I find myself getting into it. And it's exciting!
By the end of the program I should be running for 30 minutes straight. Right now, that feels almost impossible (emphasis on the almost). Really I just hope I can get through this week. Of course it's not going to get any easier (or maybe it will, as I build up strength) but I'm definitely not ready to fail.
I do have to survive those zombies, after all.
Remember how I started the Couch to 5K program? Well, I'm still with it. The first three weeks were a little easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy and today I start week 4.
Last week, the running portion of each workout maxed out at nine minutes. Today, I'm facing a running portion of 16 minutes. Given, it's broken up into more manageable intervals, but suddenly I find myself getting into it. And it's exciting!
By the end of the program I should be running for 30 minutes straight. Right now, that feels almost impossible (emphasis on the almost). Really I just hope I can get through this week. Of course it's not going to get any easier (or maybe it will, as I build up strength) but I'm definitely not ready to fail.
I do have to survive those zombies, after all.
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
WW Weigh-In #26
Week 26! That's halfway through the year! I fully plan to stick to WW for the rest of the year (even with my sporadic points tracking) so this is my midterm weigh-in. I was fully expecting more gain but I was pleasantly surprised:
Last week: 186.8 lb
This week: 185.2 lb
Total lost this week: 1.6 lb
Weight loss target: 181.8 lb
To reach target: 3.4 lb
Once again, I see myself staring down about three and a half pounds from losing 10% of my starting body weight. I want this SO BAD. I can do it! I can do it! I can do it!
Because it's the halfway point of the year, I wanted to also share the good, the bad and the ugly of what I've learned through the past 26 weeks.
Weight
The good: I've lost - and kept off - 15 pounds since starting. 15 pounds COMPLETELY gone!
The bad: I've been slipping of late, gaining and losing the same five pounds. But I'm still working on getting past that.
The ugly: I still get more irritated and annoyed than I should when I see how women are portrayed in the media and the expectations of how they should look. I still need to work on better body acceptance.
Food
The good: I've discovered healthier food that I actually like and I've been enjoying eating better. I'm also getting better with food portions.
The bad: I still have my moments of weakness, usually involving chocolate.
The ugly: Pizza. It's my biggest weakness and I always eat too much. I'm beginning to think it's got to be all or nothing.
Clothes
The good: I'm fitting into smaller sizes! Woo hoo!
The bad: I'm shrinking out of clothes I haven't had for very long.
The ugly: Nada. This is going really well!
Exercise
The good: Through WW, I'm discovering the points values for various activities and, really, I'd rather accumulate as many activity points as I can - which means lots of exercising - which is good for me and my weight!
The bad: I still struggle with motivation, but I'm getting better.
The ugly: I'm not as far as I'd like to be with my running and 5K training, but I'm hoping to turn that around with my Couch to 5K program.
Overall though, I'm happy with what I've been learning and how far I've come. I know I still have work to do and some struggles to overcome but it's still a learning process and I'm going to find that sweet spot where my ideal weight, ideal menu and ideal lifestyle all come together in perfect harmony.
Last week: 186.8 lb
This week: 185.2 lb
Total lost this week: 1.6 lb
Weight loss target: 181.8 lb
To reach target: 3.4 lb
Once again, I see myself staring down about three and a half pounds from losing 10% of my starting body weight. I want this SO BAD. I can do it! I can do it! I can do it!
Because it's the halfway point of the year, I wanted to also share the good, the bad and the ugly of what I've learned through the past 26 weeks.
Weight
The good: I've lost - and kept off - 15 pounds since starting. 15 pounds COMPLETELY gone!
The bad: I've been slipping of late, gaining and losing the same five pounds. But I'm still working on getting past that.
The ugly: I still get more irritated and annoyed than I should when I see how women are portrayed in the media and the expectations of how they should look. I still need to work on better body acceptance.
Food
The good: I've discovered healthier food that I actually like and I've been enjoying eating better. I'm also getting better with food portions.
The bad: I still have my moments of weakness, usually involving chocolate.
The ugly: Pizza. It's my biggest weakness and I always eat too much. I'm beginning to think it's got to be all or nothing.
Clothes
The good: I'm fitting into smaller sizes! Woo hoo!
The bad: I'm shrinking out of clothes I haven't had for very long.
The ugly: Nada. This is going really well!
Exercise
The good: Through WW, I'm discovering the points values for various activities and, really, I'd rather accumulate as many activity points as I can - which means lots of exercising - which is good for me and my weight!
The bad: I still struggle with motivation, but I'm getting better.
The ugly: I'm not as far as I'd like to be with my running and 5K training, but I'm hoping to turn that around with my Couch to 5K program.
Overall though, I'm happy with what I've been learning and how far I've come. I know I still have work to do and some struggles to overcome but it's still a learning process and I'm going to find that sweet spot where my ideal weight, ideal menu and ideal lifestyle all come together in perfect harmony.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
WW Weigh-In #25
And so it goes. And so it goes.
Last week: 185.8 lb
This week: 186.8 lb
Total gained this week: 1.0 lb
Weight loss target: 181.8 lb
To reach target: 5.0 lb
Sigh. I've been gaining and losing the same few pounds for about two months now - coincidentally, the same amount of time we've been house hunting. As I mentioned yesterday, stress eating has been a thing but now that I've recognized that I'm hoping to defeat it. Still, it would be so much easier if we could just buy a damn house!
I'm still working at finding a way over this hurdle. The Couch to 5K program will help; I did the first workout yesterday and it was pretty easy which will help me keep going. The running I've done in the past is definitely going to help but it's also nice to start at the beginning of the program and do really well - it's that kind of instant success that will help me keep going.
Also, I'm not going to hit my goal weight by July 4, alas. Losing 5 lb in a week is possible, but it's neither healthy nor sustainable. All I can do is keep working at it.
Last week: 185.8 lb
This week: 186.8 lb
Total gained this week: 1.0 lb
Weight loss target: 181.8 lb
To reach target: 5.0 lb
Sigh. I've been gaining and losing the same few pounds for about two months now - coincidentally, the same amount of time we've been house hunting. As I mentioned yesterday, stress eating has been a thing but now that I've recognized that I'm hoping to defeat it. Still, it would be so much easier if we could just buy a damn house!
I'm still working at finding a way over this hurdle. The Couch to 5K program will help; I did the first workout yesterday and it was pretty easy which will help me keep going. The running I've done in the past is definitely going to help but it's also nice to start at the beginning of the program and do really well - it's that kind of instant success that will help me keep going.
Also, I'm not going to hit my goal weight by July 4, alas. Losing 5 lb in a week is possible, but it's neither healthy nor sustainable. All I can do is keep working at it.
Monday, June 25, 2012
Couch to 5K
I've seen mention of the Couch to 5K running plan on Facebook and Twitter so today, when I found myself looking for a good training program for a 5K (that zombie run is coming up) I thought I'd check it out.
It's an 8-week program, which is perfect for me; I now have July and August to get into running shape and then another three weeks before the zombies come at me so with any luck I'll be able to do this. And the workouts are similar to what I've already been doing: walk/run intervals a few times a week, working up to longer running distances.
I thought that I could do my own program if I just tracked it myself but I'm discovering that I like workouts (both weights and cardio) that are structured for me by someone else (namely, someone with more fitness and exercise experience than me). I like having someone tell me that walk/run intervals three times a week will be enough to get me into shape. And I like seeing other people using it - even Jimmy Fallon! - and having success with it.
If you're interested, you can check it out HERE.
I'll let you know how I like it. Really, the only thing I can see impeding me is my own laziness!
It's an 8-week program, which is perfect for me; I now have July and August to get into running shape and then another three weeks before the zombies come at me so with any luck I'll be able to do this. And the workouts are similar to what I've already been doing: walk/run intervals a few times a week, working up to longer running distances.
I thought that I could do my own program if I just tracked it myself but I'm discovering that I like workouts (both weights and cardio) that are structured for me by someone else (namely, someone with more fitness and exercise experience than me). I like having someone tell me that walk/run intervals three times a week will be enough to get me into shape. And I like seeing other people using it - even Jimmy Fallon! - and having success with it.
If you're interested, you can check it out HERE.
I'll let you know how I like it. Really, the only thing I can see impeding me is my own laziness!
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
WW Weigh-In #24
Now that's what I'm talking 'bout Willis! Finally moving in the right direction, at the right pace:
Last week: 186.8 lb
This week: 185.8 lb
Total lost this week: 1.0 lb
Weight loss target: 181.8 lb
To reach target: 4.0 lb
One pound down, four to go!
I wasn't able to fit in a workout on Monday BUT I had a great one yesterday (weights and a run - awesome!) and another one today. And my muscles have that lovely day-after soreness to them that I do so love. Though I'm kind of over gaining and losing the same few pounds so maybe that will help me stay on the straight and narrow!
I'll be honest: I haven't been as diligent as I should with my points tracking. I'm discovering that I do know the better choices to make and I'm aware of what I'm eating but I really need to get back to the points. I do just fine until I drink too much on the weekend and need greasy hangover food the day after and then I'm to ashamed to track anything. That said, I always weigh in. I may cheat with the points tracking but I won't cheat with my weigh-ins because that's really only hurting me.
One reason I find weight loss in the summer so hard is because it's the time of year for patios, beer, burgers and ice cream and when it's hot and hazy (and, let's face it, way too humid for human consumption) I become the embodiment of hungry laziness. Of course, the irony is not lost on me, as summer is also the time for bathing suits and less clothing and exposed skin and such. Oh, the paradox I find myself in! Though with a little more will power and some better points tracking, I can get myself out of this.
Yeah. I'm going to do just that!
Last week: 186.8 lb
This week: 185.8 lb
Total lost this week: 1.0 lb
Weight loss target: 181.8 lb
To reach target: 4.0 lb
One pound down, four to go!
I wasn't able to fit in a workout on Monday BUT I had a great one yesterday (weights and a run - awesome!) and another one today. And my muscles have that lovely day-after soreness to them that I do so love. Though I'm kind of over gaining and losing the same few pounds so maybe that will help me stay on the straight and narrow!
I'll be honest: I haven't been as diligent as I should with my points tracking. I'm discovering that I do know the better choices to make and I'm aware of what I'm eating but I really need to get back to the points. I do just fine until I drink too much on the weekend and need greasy hangover food the day after and then I'm to ashamed to track anything. That said, I always weigh in. I may cheat with the points tracking but I won't cheat with my weigh-ins because that's really only hurting me.
One reason I find weight loss in the summer so hard is because it's the time of year for patios, beer, burgers and ice cream and when it's hot and hazy (and, let's face it, way too humid for human consumption) I become the embodiment of hungry laziness. Of course, the irony is not lost on me, as summer is also the time for bathing suits and less clothing and exposed skin and such. Oh, the paradox I find myself in! Though with a little more will power and some better points tracking, I can get myself out of this.
Yeah. I'm going to do just that!
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Urgh
I have FINALLY kicked that stupid cold and can actually breathe properly again - which means I can get back to working out tomorrow. And, seriously, not a day too soon; I feel so soft and dumpy right now.
I don't know if I'll get right back into running. I haven't been stretching as much as I should (but that's my own fault) and my breathing is still a bit tight due to allergies. But I'm already dreaming of lifting weights and doing some stair climbing. After all, it's June 17 and I've got 5 lb to lose by July 4.
But most of all, I just want to feel strong and healthy again. For once, I'm looking forward to Monday!
I don't know if I'll get right back into running. I haven't been stretching as much as I should (but that's my own fault) and my breathing is still a bit tight due to allergies. But I'm already dreaming of lifting weights and doing some stair climbing. After all, it's June 17 and I've got 5 lb to lose by July 4.
But most of all, I just want to feel strong and healthy again. For once, I'm looking forward to Monday!
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
WW Weigh-In #20
Holy moly, it's weigh-in day again. Where did the week go? I guess this is what happens when there's an awesome long weekend in the middle of the week! (How weird is that, that I know think of the weekend as the middle of my week? But both my work week and my WW week start on a Wednesday and end on a Tuesday so it's fitting the weekend would be "mid-week". Fitting, but odd.)
I had a most wonderful long weekend but I'll save that for another post. Time to get to the meat of the potatoes* and check in with the scale:
Last week: 185.2 lb
This week: 184.8 lb
Total lost this week: 0.4 lb
Weight loss target: 181.8 lb
To reach target: 3.0 lb
I seem to have mastered the 0.4 lb/week approach. But no matter how small, it's still a loss and that's what's important. I'm also beginning to wonder if I'm coming up on my happy weight. Yes, I would like to get down to 170 lb at least, but maybe my body is happiest around 180 lb. I'm not about to throw in the towel or anything, but I'm going to pay closer attention. After all, while I want to lose weight I also want to get to a point where I can maintain a weight I'm happy with but still enjoy life. That is what's most important to me and why I've been so happy with WW thus far (even when I've gained): I've been able to enjoy life!
What I really need to do is get myself toned up for summer (and start training for my zombie run). But that is also another post - maybe if I write down my desired workout plan I'll feel more inclined to stick with it.
....Wait, I just realized I'm only THREE POUNDS away from my next weight loss target! Wowza! I can do this!....
*Do you ever watch Storage Wars? If you do, you'll get where this line came from. If you don't, you should; it's awesome.
I had a most wonderful long weekend but I'll save that for another post. Time to get to the meat of the potatoes* and check in with the scale:
Last week: 185.2 lb
This week: 184.8 lb
Total lost this week: 0.4 lb
Weight loss target: 181.8 lb
To reach target: 3.0 lb
I seem to have mastered the 0.4 lb/week approach. But no matter how small, it's still a loss and that's what's important. I'm also beginning to wonder if I'm coming up on my happy weight. Yes, I would like to get down to 170 lb at least, but maybe my body is happiest around 180 lb. I'm not about to throw in the towel or anything, but I'm going to pay closer attention. After all, while I want to lose weight I also want to get to a point where I can maintain a weight I'm happy with but still enjoy life. That is what's most important to me and why I've been so happy with WW thus far (even when I've gained): I've been able to enjoy life!
What I really need to do is get myself toned up for summer (and start training for my zombie run). But that is also another post - maybe if I write down my desired workout plan I'll feel more inclined to stick with it.
....Wait, I just realized I'm only THREE POUNDS away from my next weight loss target! Wowza! I can do this!....
*Do you ever watch Storage Wars? If you do, you'll get where this line came from. If you don't, you should; it's awesome.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Til tomorrow
I'm a little excited for my weigh in tomorrow, but not because I think I'll have lost gobs of weight. I'm actually anticipating (another) small gain. Vacation was good to my taste buds!
So why excited? Because I finally feel energized enough to really work at getting myself to where I want to be. Maybe it's spring, maybe it's the sunny weather that's coming, maybe it's because of the small gains I've been having, maybe it's even because of my upcoming Zombie Run - but right now I feel incredibly motivated to get rid of this excess weight.
Today is also May 1, so it's a great time to unearth the initial excitement I felt when I started WW. I've also found a few new workout moves I'm eager to try, which should help my legs look better in skirts this summer, even if I can't walk due to sore muscles.
I'll be doing lots of upper body weights to try and get my arms nice and toned and all kinds of squats and lunges and some awesome interval training for my cardio. I've also got this idea in my head that I'll be in a two-piece bathing suit this summer. So, what the hell, I'm going for it!
So why excited? Because I finally feel energized enough to really work at getting myself to where I want to be. Maybe it's spring, maybe it's the sunny weather that's coming, maybe it's because of the small gains I've been having, maybe it's even because of my upcoming Zombie Run - but right now I feel incredibly motivated to get rid of this excess weight.
Today is also May 1, so it's a great time to unearth the initial excitement I felt when I started WW. I've also found a few new workout moves I'm eager to try, which should help my legs look better in skirts this summer, even if I can't walk due to sore muscles.
I'll be doing lots of upper body weights to try and get my arms nice and toned and all kinds of squats and lunges and some awesome interval training for my cardio. I've also got this idea in my head that I'll be in a two-piece bathing suit this summer. So, what the hell, I'm going for it!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)