Healthy Ants Thread

[digitaldj]

I've wanted to get this started for a while now....I know there are a fair amount of gym rats and health nuts on this board. I figured we should start a thread for posting interesting exercises/routines, personal milestones and any breaking health news to share with like-minded Ants...

If you got anything that might help out, post it here, whether it's a new way to work the elliptical or new evidence for a certain diet plan...Or maybe you just want everyone to see that pic of you benching 250 lbs....whatever...:D

[caudio51]

good call...i just got back from the gym....hour of cardio and abs....chest/bis and cardio tommorow

right now im slimming down for summer....three months to go

[twosteppn36]

no bread, pasta, and potatoes is a good thing

[caudio51]

no bread, pasta, and potatoes is a good thing

whole wheat bread, sweet potatoes...both are ok in the right portion size and eaten early in the day

[crashintosabine]

I've cut out all fast food and soda. Right now it's an all chicken, turkey, brown rice, wheat things and lotsa water goin' on. I need to lose 5lbs to be able to fit into my short-shorts and cute warm weather clothes from last summer. Basically, I need to shed my annual dose of winter-ass. Come on girls...you know what I'm talkin' about. Those 5-10 lbs of winter-ass you put on every winter. :mad:

[crashintosabine]

no bread, pasta, and potatoes is a good thing

Not necessarily none, but avoid white foods. It's all been bleached and processed. By opting for whole wheat bread instead of white...basically whole wheat everything, you can still have moderate amounts of bread and pasta without quite as bad effects.

[twosteppn36]

winter-ass :lol

[crashintosabine]

winter-ass :lol


It's true! :lol

[twosteppn36]

man...im glad i dont get winter-ass...sounds cold too!

[crashintosabine]

man...im glad i dont get winter-ass...sounds cold too!

Oh no, it's there to keep you warm. It gets cold here in MI, so winter-ass is your insulation. :D

[katedid81]

damn the winter ass. actually it's winter tummy. hell to pay!

[twosteppn36]

well anyways...yes...get rid of that winter ass....we need somethin to look at while we tailgate this summer, i mean....... :lol

[dancergirl40ky]

I try to stay healthy and fit, stay active and eat with in reason.

Big downfall. I like alcohol.

[theTabasco®Kid]

Stacy, I like alcohol too... but I switched from beer as my drink-of-choice to wine... oh and there's this thing called moderation (new fad apparently *shrugs*)... anyway, the pounds are coming off!

[dancergirl40ky]

Moderation? WTF? How do you get drunk? LOL

You know I am a wine drinker. I really love a nice Dry Red.

I also like Margs, and other hard liquor though.... see , I am a lush.

[theTabasco®Kid]

I'm just saying that *I* cut out beer and lost some weight...

As for moderation.... yeah, it blows. We have kids... alcohol is our friend!

:D

[dancergirl40ky]

Yeah me too. It becomes friendlier by the day. I know it does make a big difference in weight gain and I kid about getting drunk all the time. One or two in the evening and that is about it.

[Dave G]

I believe moderation is the key to pretty much everthing.I can't say I always practiced that but I try. I could never quit the pasta or other good food or knocking back a few. I buy a big bottle of a good dry red wine every week and have a glass or two every day. I use one of those pumps that take the air out of the bottle to keep it fresh. As soon as the snow melts in the woods I'll get back on the mountain bike and when it gets a little warmer and they take the sand of the roads I'll start riding to work

[bbrianblaze]

For health reasons I cut back on those baaaad cholesterol foods... cheese, fried foods, etc. So the calzones are a thing of the past. And the occassional (sp?) fish and chips.... no more.
I am having a hard time cutting down on carbs, although I KNOW I should.

*makes note on things to do list... run Brian, run* :rolleyes: :lol


gym---> :twak <---Brian

[dancergirl40ky]

Brian you are in pretty good shape already though. I am sure firefighting requires that.

[bbrianblaze]

Brian you are in pretty good shape already though. I am sure firefighting requires that.


I've picked up the winter-weight everyone talks about..
And truthfully ya DON'T have to be in shape (to volunteer). It's sad. There are guys there really out of shape. I can't use them as a barometer as far as staying fit, that's for sure!!

Ya DO have to be in shape to get a 'career' ff job though. They have physical tests as part of the process. Some are easy as cake and others require every ounce of energy and strength!! (Curious? Look up CPAT online!!!) Besides the CPAT there are others that require you to pull a dumby or run 1.5 mi in X min, etc. Anyhoo, I gotta stay on top of my workouts if I can compete for 'new' positions (which typically test in the Spring/Summer).

[proudestfan]

just got back to the gym this week after being on hiatus for 3 months, yikes. time to slim down for summer. Shows in my face the most, and I don't want carb face.

[caudio51]

I've picked up the winter-weight everyone talks about..
And truthfully ya DON'T have to be in shape (to volunteer). It's sad. There are guys there really out of shape. I can't use them as a barometer as far as staying fit, that's for sure!!

Ya DO have to be in shape to get a 'career' ff job though. They have physical tests as part of the process. Some are easy as cake and others require every ounce of energy and strength!! (Curious? Look up CPAT online!!!) Besides the CPAT there are others that require you to pull a dumby or run 1.5 mi in X min, etc. Anyhoo, I gotta stay on top of my workouts if I can compete for 'new' positions (which typically test in the Spring/Summer).

Not only for the qualifications but fire fighters and police alike...you need to stay fit to stay safe on the job

[digitaldj]

So I recently changed my routine. This is how it used to be:

Monday Lap Swim Or Run for 20-30 minutes
Tuesday Four Supersets on Weights, hitting all major muscle groups.
Repeat pattern until Saturday, totally for six exercise days in a row, alternating cardio and weights.
Sunday Rest.
Then repeat the cycle on the following Monday again.

This type of Cardio-then-Muscle routine has carried me a long way in the past year (roughly 50 lbs of weightloss). But I'm concerned now with trying to increase intensity for more fat burn and muscle building to get to the next level. I just recently decided to try applying the "Superset" concept to workouts in general. Lemme 'splain.

For anyone who doesn't already know, a "Superset" involves working two opposite muscle groups in succession with no resting. A superset might pair up Bent Over Rows (for Upper Back) and Push-Ups (for chest). See how the pairing works? Then I would do three sets of each exercise, alternating between the two, with no resting. Then I would rest two minutes (to gain back maximum strength) and move on to the next superset.

Taking this principle into mind, I've decided lift weights and then follow it up with a run of 20-30 min cardio immediately following, with very little rest between. I then lay off of exercise a whole day and return to do weights and cardio together the following day. So it's one day on, one day off, and one day on again, helping me lift weights and do cardio 4 times in 8 days. I'm thinking that my workouts will intensify overall the same way supersets intensify individual exercises. Anyone have any experience with this? Thoughts?

[dancergirl40ky]

Tee Hee,

Actually I have lost 10 lbs over the last 9 months. Think I could lose more. I will dancing and sexing. ;)

[GLR87]

I've been on a healthy eating plan since january I've lost 15 pounds so far, Im looking to lose another 10 by may.

[2SteppingAnt41]

i cut out all fast food and pop, gave up all candy for lent to see if that will help me any. now it's time to cut back on the meal size... i tend to be a big eater. i'm doing Pilates 4 times a week... i love it :-) no time to get to the gym so 30 mins a day of Pilates gets my abs burnin'...

[bbrianblaze]

did my run this morning.... :D


ps my s-i-law has the 'wrong technique' (imo)... for Lent she gave up chocolate... candy (only). WTF mate?!?! Can't ya just sacrifice for real (for 40 days)?!?!
So we get back from an 'after dinner' walk yesterday and she has some 'leftover' mud pie!!!

...but only the coffee ice cream part... oh and the choc crust!!! :BANG




I mean I know, to each their own... but come on!!! She will still eat choc ice cream cakes, cookies, etc... just not hershey kisses, etc

:BANG (one more time for good measure)

[digitaldj]

did my run this morning.... :D


ps my s-i-law has the 'wrong technique' (imo)... for Lent she gave up chocolate... candy (only). WTF mate?!?! Can't ya just sacrifice for real (for 40 days)?!?!
So we get back from an 'after dinner' walk yesterday and she has some 'leftover' mud pie!!!

...but only the coffee ice cream part... oh and the choc crust!!! :BANG




I mean I know, to each their own... but come on!!! She will still eat choc ice cream cakes, cookies, etc... just not hershey kisses, etc

:BANG (one more time for good measure)


Haha....like giving up speaking French, when the only language you know is English...

[OklahomaMama]

i'm back on my "good girl regimen"
cereal for breakfast instead of little debbies :D
salad for lunch
lots of H2O
speed walking 3 mile track around the golf course (just across the street from my office...no excuses)
tiny little dinner

as dave sez "feelin' good, feelin' good"

[bbrianblaze]

Haha....like giving up speaking French, when the only language you know is English...

:lol :lol :lol

I mean come on.....


ps quote-worthy :thumbsup

[Bambie4284]

I'm trying to get back in shape. Its a pain but I know its worth it.

Went for a run today and I've been good about it the last two weeks so I'm proud. Sore but proud.

[digitaldj]

I started a new diet yesterday to help create leanness. The Rock (yes, the Wrestler) undertook it in an effort to reduce his body weight from 285 to 260. He wanted to get into the movie industry and needed to lean up his physique in the process. It took him from 14% body fat to 7%. That's incredible. Anyway, here are some schematics for anyone who might be interested in how it works.

Rule #1: Eat More The Rock ate 6 meals a day, each one consisting of about 600 calories a piece. The mentality was this: his body needed more fuel to train harder, to maintain a high metabolism and replenish itself when broken down.

Rule #2: Eat Balanced The diet broken almost every meal down this way: one portion of lean protein, one portion of starchy carbs, and one portion of extremely fibrous veggies and (sometimes) another serving of vegetables.

An example meal: 6 oz of water packed Tuna-fish (protein), 1 cup of brown rice (starchy carbs), 1 cup of steamed green beans (fibrous veggies). And then maybe something like a cup of slice cucumbers (that second serving of vegetables.) Every meal requires 24 oz of water.

I started this program yesterday. Let me tell you, for breakfast I ate 3 eggs (Egglands Best Brand, highly recommended by me), two slices of canadian bacon (that equaled the protein), a cup of oatmeal (the carbs) and one pear (the fibrous vegetable.) Of course the water as well. It set quite a foundation for me the rest of the day.

I was full of energy and was anxious to get home to work out after school and studying. After doing an hour long lifting session consisting of 8 supersets, I knocked out 90 minutes of continuous soccer with a friend and still had fuel left in me for more despite the obvious lactic breakdown I had already accumulated. I only managed to eat 4 of the 6 meals. I simply wasn't hungry enough for all six. But I already consumed far more food that I do on a normal day. The best part was that most of the foods I ate are easy to find in bulk and aren't all that expensive.

Examples of food that fit each category

Proteins: Lean chicken (skinless preferable), fish and beef (ground chuck is best.) Both frozen or fresh. Eggs (Egglands Best are made from Vegetarian hens and have a 1/3 less fat than regular eggs. They taste the same.) Lean Deli meat.

Starchy Carbs: Straight Oatmeal. Rice Cakes. 100% Whole Wheat Bread (double check packaging, alot of wheat bread is white bread with a slighty recipe change.) English Muffins (Thomas Brand name is Preferable.) Grits.

Fibrous Veggies: Sweet Potatoes. Regular Potatoes. Canned and frozen vegetables. The greener the better. Yams. Canned fruits (be wary of sugary syrup, check out Dole Tropical Fruit salad: very good, very good for you.)

So does it work? We're gonna find out. I weighed in at 181 today. I can probably get my fat percentage done tomorrow or the next day. I'll then keep accurate track of both for the next two weeks.

Holy crap, longest post ever...:freak

[selkiegirl]

^3600 calories a DAY? Good goodness...now, as much as I shouldn't have been here even a week or so ago, I must say that I am doing so well eating wise. I am so proud of myself.
I have never kept it a secret that I deal with eating disorders, if I am not restricting to <600 calories a day, I am leaning on the bulimic side of things.
But for some reason, I have really done well this week. I an eating healthier, eating more than what I use to, not purging, not restricting, and I am feeling the effects already. More energy, better attitude, not obsessing, and although I do still weigh in every morning, I was surprised to see that I LOST 3 lbs. I think alot of it has to do with my metabolism, purging just slows that down to NOTHING and you retain every bit of food you eat, not to mention you feel awful.
So, still, it's too early to tell if this will become a healthier pattern for me, but I feel so strong and positive that I am off to a much better start. Just wanted to ask for good wishes, I so want to beat this thing, it's been way too long.

[digitaldj]

Damn you're up late Jenna. Or Early. Whichever. :)

[selkiegirl]

Early, was up at 4:30...I love watching the sun rise, the world wake up, so quiet and peaceful:)
Morning, Adam:)

[bbrianblaze]

:thumbsup to Adam for that very useful long post and
:thumbsup to Jenna for a good week!!

[Rob D]

so adam, here's my routine (which has slipped because of the puppy, but i'll be getting back into the routine shortly):

everyday, beginning of workout:20-30 mins cardio (usually running, sometimes eliptical)
everyday, end of workout: 3-5 sets (depending on how fatigued i am) of abs. mixed everyday, some days obliques, somedays just rectus abdom., somedays both)

monday: chest only (5 exercises, 4 sets, 10-12 reps each, increasing weight each time) flat bench is done pyramid style over 6 sets (135, 185, 225, 225, 185, 135). last set is done super slow (5 sec count up and down). it whoops the ass.

tues: back only ( same as chest (5 exercises)). always start w/ pull ups. a favorite back exercise to the W curl. kneel down in between two cables that are positioned in the top lock position. your arms are extended at 45 degree angles. pull your arms in so that you arms and head make a W (should feel it mostly in the rhomboid region). another one i do here that i love is for the serratus anteriors. just doing a normal pushup, but have one hand on a step or something raising it about 4 inches higher than the other hand (which is on the ground). do a normal pushup making sure you body stays parallel to the ground. you feel it if you're doing it properly.

weds - arms (bis + tris). 4 sets for each. all bis are done first, then all tris.

thurs - shoulders - 4 exercises

fri - just cardio

sat - off

sun- begin w/ chest again.

i never do legs. i have tree trunks as it is and don't want them any bigger. the running keeps my legs active as it is. any questions, fire away.

[texasdmblvr]

^3600 calories a DAY? Good goodness...now, as much as I shouldn't have been here even a week or so ago, I must say that I am doing so well eating wise. I am so proud of myself.
I have never kept it a secret that I deal with eating disorders, if I am not restricting to <600 calories a day, I am leaning on the bulimic side of things.
But for some reason, I have really done well this week. I an eating healthier, eating more than what I use to, not purging, not restricting, and I am feeling the effects already. More energy, better attitude, not obsessing, and although I do still weigh in every morning, I was surprised to see that I LOST 3 lbs. I think alot of it has to do with my metabolism, purging just slows that down to NOTHING and you retain every bit of food you eat, not to mention you feel awful.
So, still, it's too early to tell if this will become a healthier pattern for me, but I feel so strong and positive that I am off to a much better start. Just wanted to ask for good wishes, I so want to beat this thing, it's been way too long.

:thumbsup :hug way to go jenna :hug :thumbsup

[selkiegirl]

Thanks, Beth, Brian, it's tough at times, but this week hasn't been tough at all. Just have to try my best every moment of every day, and it feels good to know my body is being treated with respect and care...Each day I overcome this is a day closer to recovery.

[texasdmblvr]

personally just started working out last september
i go to the gym RELIGIOUSLY 5 days a week rain or shine/ sleep or no sleep
cardio everyday (either @ 12 miles on the bike or 3 miles on the elipticor)
abs, thighs, arms : rotate days
at least 2 times a week i do bryan kest's power yoga at home~ there is no better stress reliever or body sculpting video available * highly recommended by -me-
i am very limited to what i can eat and how much i can eat due to the gastric bypass. no bread/sugar/alcohol
i don't absorb much of anything either as far as fats go
i've been really trying a healthy eating approach now that
I EAT TO LIVE not LIVE TO EAT

[digitaldj]

:thumbsup to Adam for that very useful long post and
:thumbsup to Jenna for a good week!!


Very cool, glad I'm not just babbling. :)

[digitaldj]

so adam, here's my routine (which has slipped because of the puppy, but i'll be getting back into the routine shortly):

everyday, beginning of workout:20-30 mins cardio (usually running, sometimes eliptical)
everyday, end of workout: 3-5 sets (depending on how fatigued i am) of abs. mixed everyday, some days obliques, somedays just rectus abdom., somedays both)

monday: chest only (5 exercises, 4 sets, 10-12 reps each, increasing weight each time) flat bench is done pyramid style over 6 sets (135, 185, 225, 225, 185, 135). last set is done super slow (5 sec count up and down). it whoops the ass.

tues: back only ( same as chest (5 exercises)). always start w/ pull ups. a favorite back exercise to the W curl. kneel down in between two cables that are positioned in the top lock position. your arms are extended at 45 degree angles. pull your arms in so that you arms and head make a W (should feel it mostly in the rhomboid region). another one i do here that i love is for the serratus anteriors. just doing a normal pushup, but have one hand on a step or something raising it about 4 inches higher than the other hand (which is on the ground). do a normal pushup making sure you body stays parallel to the ground. you feel it if you're doing it properly.

weds - arms (bis + tris). 4 sets for each. all bis are done first, then all tris.

thurs - shoulders - 4 exercises

fri - just cardio

sat - off

sun- begin w/ chest again.

i never do legs. i have tree trunks as it is and don't want them any bigger. the running keeps my legs active as it is. any questions, fire away.


That's nuts. I'm not quite at that type of routine. Not yet. Hehe. Where did you pick up this type of routine? It sounds like you thrash the hell out of one major body part every day and then do abs and cardio. I ask because I didn't play much sports in school and didn't get concerned with strength training or healthy living until after I joined the military.

I'm gonna start getting free access to a gym through my mommy so I'll be sure to check out cable exercises. :thumbsup

[digitaldj]

at least 2 times a week i do bryan kest's power yoga at home


Stop flirting with me Beth seriously. ;)

[Rob D]

That's nuts. I'm not quite at that type of routine. Not yet. Hehe. Where did you pick up this type of routine? It sounds like you thrash the hell out of one major body part every day and then do abs and cardio. I ask because I didn't play much sports in school and didn't get concerned with strength training or healthy living until after I joined the military.

I'm gonna start getting free access to a gym through my mommy so I'll be sure to check out cable exercises. :thumbsup

i didn't start lifting for real until i went to college. played soccer and basketball in high school, but did minimum in terms of strength training. four years working at ithaca's fitness center paid off. it took a while to get where i am and it slips away even easier if i take a few weeks off, but i like it. i just fear being that 28 year old guy w/ a bald head (inevitable) and big belly (controlable). can't wait til the puppy is a decent size that he can come running w/ me.

[digitaldj]

Bittersweet news for people on the Atkins Diet or anyone else pursuing a low-carb lifestyle. Foods that are labled "Low-Carb" may not be much different from their Sugar-Free equivalents. Lemme splain...

Most foods you that fit low-carb diets usually have a starburst proclaiming exactly what the "Net Carbs" of their product are. There is no foulplay in these statements. But what are "Net Carbs" exactly? They are the remaining "Bad" carbohydrates after the amount of fiber and sugar alcohols are accounted for in any given food. Let's say you've got a loaf of bread with 15 Carbs per slice. If each slice also contains 10 grams of fiber than you're only absorbing 5 "Bad" Carbohydrates when you have a slice of said bread.

Why is this important? Because some food companies will package a version of their product that is either equal or higher in carbohydrates than it's sugar-free counterpart, and then charge a higher price.

But here's the good news: Now that you know how to calculate the net carbs of any food item, you can simply check labels for the most afforadable low-carb products on next trip to the supermarket, regardless of whether they are packaged as "Low-Carb" or not. And save money. :D

[Obsessor Of 41]

This is a pretty good idea for a thread. I work out daily, mainly weightlifting, although I should put an element of cardio back into it.

[bbrianblaze]

did my run today... feeling good! :thumbsup

[theTabasco®Kid]

Went clothes shopping yesterday because I look absolutely goofy in my old 38s cinched tight with a belt... and the damn 36s didn't fit...


because I'm in 34s!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

That's 6 inches gone from my waist! 32 here I come!

[dancergirl40ky]

Good for you Kenny :) You need to post some before and after pics.

[Sarah]

I just eat a lot better, and if I want to eat the bad foods I love I obviously eat them in moderation.

I do at least 6 miles on the eliptical machine
then I do 6 different weight machines. 3 reps of 10-12-10.
I alternate 100 and 200 crunches a day. 100 one day, 200 the next, etc.
Stretch after I'm 10 minutes into my cardio, then stretch for about 15 minutes after my cardio.

At least this is what I was doing since I joined the gym oct. 1st. I dislocated my knee cap Tuesday, so I'm going to be out of it for at least a feww weeks.. I was told by the er doc 4-6 weeks. Ick. It's really chapping my ass, since I was working out at least 6 days a week.


And if you want to eat healthily, stick with complex carbs. Stay away from simple carbs, surgars, and starchy carbs. Try not to eat too much fruit. I was shocked when my trainer told me this. Fruit while it's good for you in one small portion a day, has too much sugar in it, which turn into simple carbs, which are bad for you. As my trainer harps on me for, eat as close to the earth as you can. The closer you eat to the earth, the healthier the food is going to be. Example: rye bread, green veggies, etc. Whole wheat bread is still processed, so while it's better than white bread, it's still not great for you.

[mp3ray]

Hey all, glad you started this thread, I have some questions.

I have been on Weight Watchers and have lost 22 pounds, but I needed to start exercising.
I started jogging on our schools track, 5 min jog - 2 min walk. 5 min -2 min, then 5 min again. I do this every other day.

Is this a good plan to get me started on jogging? How long do i keep this up before I jog straight for 20 min? Should I even jog straight for 20 min, or should I keep up what i am doing.

I wanted to do something in my off-jog days, but I can't find anything to stick with. The gyms I have access to our too full, but my roomate does have a weight bench. Videos bore me and I have zero coordination so I can never keep up.

Any suggestions?

[Sarah]

Running, or any exercise for that matter, in intervals is great. I'd just keep upping the running intervals as you are able to un longer. And I wouldn shorten the walk down as you feel able, but I'd only shorten it to maybe a minute. You want enough time between the running and walking for your body to slow down and speed up, ya know?But yeah. Interval training is great.

As for weights or something.. Get some free weights. Get a few different sizes. Somedays you can handle maybe 10lbs, and others you may only be able to handle 5lbs, or whatever the case may be. I've found that if you don't like videos, then pick up some fitness magazines. I like Fitness magazine. Just go somewhere with a big magazine selection, look for all the fitness mags, and look through some, and chose one that you like. Most of them will have a few pages of different things to do for weight training at home. Or look for fitness books. Most of them will have a section on home weight training. I just do the basic stuff at home if I can't get to the gym, or don't want to do my weight training at the gym.

[Dads_obsessed]

Personally, I like to keep it simple.

I don't change a lot in my diet, I just eat smaller portions. I feel like if you cut things out you like all together, you just crave them more. It can also be morally defeating. I do try to stay away from fried and fast foods. I eat pretty good to begin with, so moderation is the key.

I also keep it simple in the gym, 30min, 6 days a week cardio. I burn 500 to 550 cals. each workout. so far in the last month and a half I've lost 10lbs. Got about 30 to go.

[Sarah]

Exactly. I don't eat fast food, but I did all the time before I joined the gym. I don't crave it anymore, because I know it's so gross and bad for me. But I still eat other things I love. I still eat candy, just not 235434543 pieces. I still eat chocolate, but I buy one candy bar at the checkout, instead of a bag of minis which I end up eating a quarter of the bag in one sitting. I still eat mac and cheese and all the other foods I love that are bad for me, just in smaller portions and not as often.

I hate diets, because you cut out things you love. And when you do that, and eat one thing you love once, you're more likely to fall off the diet wagon and start eating the bad foods for you all the time, in the portions you were eating before, and more often.

Moderation is all people need. Eat less calories than you expend in a day. You need to burn more calories than you take in to lose weight. It's common sense and can work for ANYONE.


Good job Dads. Keep it up. I'm a bit more crazy. I do at least an hour of cardio, more if I need to reach my "goal." I have to do at least 6 miles, and I have to burn a 1000 calories. Although 2 days a week, I up the miles to 7 miles to switch it up a bit. I do the eliptical machine, once in a while I'll walk for a bit, but I hate most cardio except the eliptical machine. I also do a kickboxing class 2 nights a week.

[Dads_obsessed]

Good job Dads. Keep it up. I'm a bit more crazy. I do at least an hour of cardio, more if I need to reach my "goal." I have to do at least 6 miles, and I have to burn a 1000 calories. Although 2 days a week, I up the miles to 7 miles to switch it up a bit. I do the eliptical machine, once in a while I'll walk for a bit, but I hate most cardio except the eliptical machine. I also do a kickboxing class 2 nights a week.
Thanks,

Do you notice that when you work out that you don't want to eat the junk food as much? Its like why waste a good workout on a big mac.Theres nothing wrong with treating yourself now and then, again, moderation.

I'd like to get up to an hour, but working full time and being a full time dad makes it hard to find time sometimes. The elliptical is also my fav. I usually mix up the programs daily to keep from getting in a rut.

[Sarah]

Thanks,

Do you notice that when you work out that you don't want to eat the junk food as much? Its like why waste a good workout on a big mac.Theres nothing wrong with treating yourself now and then, again, moderation.

I'd like to get up to an hour, but working full time and being a full time dad makes it hard to find time sometimes. The elliptical is also my fav. I usually mix up the programs daily to keep from getting in a rut.


Oh yeah. That's why I don't eat fast food anymore. I had Wendys a few months ago, because they tore the one down here to remodel, and of course I wanted some, so I ate it the day they opened. I had it again a few weeks ago. It definitely wasn;t as good as I remember it being when I ate it all the time. And exactly. You need to still eat the stuff you love, but in smaller portions. You need to eat the stuff you love, otherwise you deprive yourself and once you eat that certain thing, you fall off "the wagon."

See, I have too much time. I have all the time in the world, except when I have class. I can't find a job, so I go to class, workout and sit on my ass:lol So, I spend a good amount of time at the gym(usually about 2-3 hours a day.)Yeah, I do different programs once in a while, but I usually just do interval training. I'll do 3-5 minutes hard, 2 minutes medium pace, 5-6 minutes hard, 3 minutes medium pace, etc. It's a good way to do the same thing every time you workout, but still get the change ups so your body doesn't get used to what you do.

A good thing to do is change up the amount of time you do cardio as well. I used to do 1-1.5 hours every single day, day in and day out. Finally I realized if I kept up with that, not only would my body get used to what I was doing on the machine, but it would need at least that amount of time for cardio every single time I workout. So somedays I only do 3 miles, 600 calories, just so my body doesn't get used to doing an hour+ of cardio a day.


Man, I could go on and on about this. My gym had a month long nutrition/exercise class that met once a week. I've learned SO much about this all. Not to mention I buy all kinds of fitness mags/books. I'm so into this, because I want to lose weight so bad, but I want to do it the healthy correct way.

[Dads_obsessed]

Sounds like you have a good handle on what your doing. I'm a bit older then you and I love when I see younger people in the gym. I'm not sure why, I guess its neat to see them doing positive stuff rather then sitting around playing video games or whatever, and getting fat. Keep it up and you will lose that weight. One of the things I make sure I do is I always set a goal. If you always have that carrot out in front of you you'll always have some kind of motivation. The other thing I do is I tell friends and family about what I'm doing. That way it keeps me honest, if I know they're going to ask I know I better get down there and do something. I don't think I'm telling anything you don't already know......in fact I feel like I could learn from you. I need to get off my ass now and get down there.

I'll be checking back to see how your doing.

[Sarah]

Oh yeah. I've always known the way to lose weight is to eat less calories than you burn, but it's hard to actually do that. I've learned a lot by taking a weight training class for a PE credit at school, and this diet and nutrition class. And about goals, so many people set unrealistic goals, and give up when they can't reach them. It's so sad. And yeah, living at home, and having my dad know what I'm doing and trying to do, it helps me to not snack on crap so much because I know my dad will say something to me about it.

If you ever have any questions, feel free to IM/PM me anytime. Have fun at the gym, I'm jealous. Workout a little extra for me, since I can't do anything right now:lol

[Dads_obsessed]

When I don't feel like going that extra minute, I'll think of you and push on :)

[Sarah]

Sounds like a plan. I have to go see an orthopedic surgeon tomorrow.. I'm hoping he'll tell me I did no damage, I need no surgery anytime soon, and I can get back to working out soon, even if it's just light workouts. This not being able to do anything right now really chaps my ass. I haven't done much of anything since I hurt my knee Tuesday night. I hate it.

[Bambie4284]

I've got a question. My ankles are really weak...everytime I run I end up having the right one turn and then I fall (at least once a run). Any exercises I can do to strengthen them?

[Gregb486]

buy a medicine and try balancing on it, its good for stability

[caudio51]

I would also say try using a brace....but that wont strengthen it....however you may need the extra support

[caudio51]

was curious how everyone's progress is going???

[il bacio dolce]

It's going to be so much easier for me to eat healthy when I move out next month, because I'll be buying my own groceries and cooking my own food. I also decided to cut beef and pork and eggs out of my diet. I'll still eat chicken, fish and other seafood, and Matt got me eating a lot more salads and healthy stuff, which I can't complain about because I always liked them anyway. Plus we'll have to watch what we spend on food, so it's gonna be only what we need for the week and no junk food.

And there is a Curves (it's a fitness center for women) a couple blocks away from the apartment and right next door to where I'm going to be working. And I'll actually have more space to exercise in my apartment than I do in my house. Not much open space to do anything here.

[MelissaDMBfan]

It's going to be so much easier for me to eat healthy when I move out next month, because I'll be buying my own groceries and cooking my own food. I also decided to cut beef and pork and eggs out of my diet. I'll still eat chicken, fish and other seafood, and Matt got me eating a lot more salads and healthy stuff, which I can't complain about because I always liked them anyway. Plus we'll have to watch what we spend on food, so it's gonna be only what we need for the week and no junk food.

And there is a Curves (it's a fitness center for women) a couple blocks away from the apartment and right next door to where I'm going to be working. And I'll actually have more space to exercise in my apartment than I do in my house. Not much open space to do anything here.
I go to Curves, and I love it! I have lost about 15lbs since I joined last year, and am finally down to the weight I was before I had my son. I would still like to lose another 10lbs though. The one by me is filled with older women, but they are all so nice and have become my second moms, and I am much more comfortable working out there than at at gym. Its great for me cause I don't have the time to spend working out for 2 hours. Within 30 minutes I am in and out!

Don't get rid of to much red meat, eggs or pork since a lot of those are high in protein. My cousin eats NO RED meat, and she has not become very severely anemic.

[elf]

god bless my 14-year-old metabolism...but on top of that I run 2 miles 6 days a week + push ups and sit ups afterwards...gotta stay in shape to make high school soccer...

[mdmt619]

i dont eat meat, so i guess that is good for me, but i havent done any physical activity in quite some time

im gonna start running in the morning as soon as school is over

[Gregb486]

god bless my 14-year-old metabolism...but on top of that I run 2 miles 6 days a week + push ups and sit ups afterwards...gotta stay in shape to make high school soccer...eww, play football;)

[il bacio dolce]

A diet without meat is actually healthier and you can get protein from fish and beans and some vegetables. Correct me if I'm wrong. I read it.

[Bambie4284]

Question for ants with muscle building know how...

My arms are decent and I love my shoulders but I'm trying to get a lot more definition in my triceps. Any good exercises I can do with free weights?

[Sarah]

I'm doing pretty good. Since I joined the gym in October, I've lost about 40lbs. I lost a few weeks when I dislocated my patella, but I've more than made up for it.

I could stand to eat a little healthier. But I'm pretty happy with the results I've gotten so far.

[Dancing Ants]

i'm no health nut by any means...but just limit your intake. eat what you want, but don't have 2 or 3 helpings.

[Sarah]

Exactly. All anyone has to do is burn more calories than they take in daily. It's that simple. Anyone and everyone can do this and they will most certainly lose weight.

[caudio51]

Question for ants with muscle building know how...

My arms are decent and I love my shoulders but I'm trying to get a lot more definition in my triceps. Any good exercises I can do with free weights?

overhead dumbbell extensions, tricep kickbacks those are the basics unless you want to do skull cruchers or close grip bench

[bbrianblaze]

Well we'll see HOW healthy I am when I return on Tues....



Long story but I'll have more for any curious people then! :rolleyes:

*fingers crossed*

[digitaldj]

Wow man...I really meant to make this little thread my baby...

Time didn't permit that...

[FrankTheTank]

healthy lunch today, healthy dinner tonight. gonna be looking good for hitting up shows this summer

[digitaldj]

Right on.....I recommend the any interested male Ants check out a book called the "Testosterone Advantage Plan." It's a book that profiles a meal plan for increasing Testosterone levels and getting in shape.

I've been eating great food on it, including baked Salmon and Multigrain waffels, among others. I'm almost never hungry and the food isn't very difficult to make, although some planning is involved. There are also weight routines that scale 9-weeks and are designed to get the most of out of the diet plan.

I'm starting week 3 of the plan and am quite happy with the results. My muscles are popping signifigantly for the first time in quite a few months, and I only need to lift weights about 3 hours a week. Goodbye plateau, you've been hanging around too long...

[caudio51]

I've been making some good progress while away at college but drinking was killing what I could have been seeing....too many extra calories at night with all the beer....now that I am back at home and wont be drinking so much Im excited to see where I can get.....and time to go back to my home gym which is exciting

[bbrianblaze]

Right on.....I recommend the any interested male Ants check out a book called the "Testosterone Advantage Plan." It's a book that profiles a meal plan for increasing Testosterone levels and getting in shape.

I've been eating great food on it, including baked Salmon and Multigrain waffels, among others. I'm almost never hungry and the food isn't very difficult to make, although some planning is involved. There are also weight routines that scale 9-weeks and are designed to get the most of out of the diet plan.

I'm starting week 3 of the plan and am quite happy with the results. My muscles are popping signifigantly for the first time in quite a few months, and I only need to lift weights about 3 hours a week. Goodbye plateau, you've been hanging around too long...


"Goodbye plateau..."!!! :thumbsup

Good for you!! And looong time no see....

[mrottondo]

hahaha i NEVER do any workout, gosh, i love myself :)

[selkiegirl]

"Goodbye plateau..."!!! :thumbsup

Good for you!! And looong time no see....
My sentiments exactly! Passing the plateau is a great feeling, and Adam, good to see you! Hope you have been smiling alot:)

[digitaldj]

Yeah, yeah... :eyebrow

[digitaldj]

Hey there Jen, I saw you looking at my thread. You better contribute or I'll take you over my knee like that one time....

[JanelleM]

Hey there Jen, I saw you looking at my thread. You better contribute or I'll take you over my knee like that one time....
I was hoping you'd see that...I stay healthy by running from boys who want to spank me. I eventually let them catch me though ;)

[JanelleM]

P.S. Oh god that one time...how could I forget?? It's been a while you know...;)

[Number27]

low weight, low reps is what i usually do.

[digitaldj]

Hey man, you're detracting from the submission-themed sex talk...

[Number27]

i liked to be gagged and spanked!

[JanelleM]

i liked to be gagged and spanked!That's better...and a little dirty talk never hurt either...

[digitaldj]

i liked to be gagged and spanked!


That's what I'm talking about. Proceed....

[Number27]

yeah, i never thought i would like being tied and have my girlfriend have her way with me, then i realized i was an idiot.

[digitaldj]

:lol

[Holla9]

NASM certified personal trainer here. Ive been working out for about 4 years , though not consistently due to unrelated injuries . I haven't read this whole thread , but I can tell you from experience that nutrition is key. From diet alone , I went from 5'10@212lbs(bulking phase) this winter , to 180lbs(cutting phase) now - and I don't do nearly as much cardio as I should.

[ShAdOwFaX]

i work out everyday :) mainly weight training and strength building, but i play basketball and roadbike for my cardio workout.

[caudio51]

side note: i just graduate college so the past few months there has been some intense partying....needless to say this was the first week where i didnt drink and didnt work out either....and ive already lost weight....that damn beer really gets ya

[phunky420]

I've wanted to get this started for a while now....I know there are a fair amount of gym rats and health nuts on this board. I figured we should start a thread for posting interesting exercises/routines, personal milestones and any breaking health news to share with like-minded Ants...

If you got anything that might help out, post it here, whether it's a new way to work the elliptical or new evidence for a certain diet plan...Or maybe you just want everyone to see that pic of you benching 250 lbs....whatever...:D

I've started doing Yoga with my wife. If anyone thinks they are in shape they should try a Yoga class. It will humble you :)

[caudio51]

I've started doing Yoga with my wife. If anyone thinks they are in shape they should try a Yoga class. It will humble you :)

ive heard that before and kinda want to try one.....just have to find a girl to bring me(need an excuse for the guys)

[AnyonebutBush]

Cut Cut Cut Cut

[YknSTONE]

hmmm Yoga......NOT! not me anyways.
"Cardio" I hear ya on the "Just graduated" and the end of the semester, damn those late night parties with tons of alcohol can do it to you. Anyways its time hit it back up at the gym..I love B-Ball for a good striaght 3hours, then to the weight room.

[chiznaz]

i dont fell healthty

[caudio51]

Cut Cut Cut Cut

i hear ya on that

[mdude85]

I don't know if this has already been said but a good way to build muscle while working out is to invert your exercises by paying more attention to the relaxation portion of your rep rather than the contraction portion. For instance, when doing a freeweight bicep lift, consider lifting the weight quickly toward your body, but very slowly bring it down to the muscles relaxed position...more slowly than normal that is. That is a little tip I've learned other than the fairly obvious ones of eating healthy, doing cardio warmups before working out, etc.

[bbrianblaze]

Healthy? Check!! :D


Long story, loooong morning but :bounce

[Gregb486]

ive been bad

[FPrefect61]

I've finally dragged my fatass to the gym, signed up, and I've been going for about 3 weeks now. I do a mix of cardio and weight lifting. I don't notice any physical different yet, but I feel a lot better now than I did last month. I have much more energy than I used to. :)

[bbrianblaze]

I've finally dragged my fatass to the gym, signed up, and I've been going for about 3 weeks now. I do a mix of cardio and weight lifting. I don't notice any physical different yet, but I feel a lot better now than I did last month. I have much more energy than I used to. :)


Boo YAAA!!! :bounce


That's the "payoff"!! Good work!

[FPrefect61]

Boo YAAA!!! :bounce


That's the "payoff"!! Good work!
Thanks! :D I'm also sleeping much better at night because I'm so beat when I get home from the gym.

Today I have to ride my brother's bike to and from the gym. I think it's a 3 mile ride or something like that. My legs are going to be killing me!

[MelissaDMBfan]

I have been eating really healthy lately, and not muching on any food in between meals, which was my #1 problem. This morning I had a banana and peach for breakfast, and I think for lunch I am going to make myself a turkey sandwich, and pretzels.

Water has become my best friend too!

[FPrefect61]

I drink so much water now, but I have to take a leak every 20 minutes it seems!

[bbrianblaze]

Snacking after dinner... THAT'S my prob!!! But I'm doing ok with it. :D

[FPrefect61]

I still snack, but I try to keep it to relatively healthy stuff, yogurt, pretzels, Baked Lays.

I have no portion control with ice cream though, that's my weakness. :)

[bbrianblaze]

Luckily I'm not hugely into ice cream. But I did have some One Sweet Whirled recently!!! :lol :thumbsup

[MelissaDMBfan]

Luckily I'm not hugely into ice cream. But I did have some One Sweet Whirled recently!!! :lol :thumbsup
You don't like ice cream!?!?!?! I have never heard of such a thing. :twak

[selkiegirl]

Luckily I'm not hugely into ice cream. But I did have some One Sweet Whirled recently!!! :lol :thumbsup
I don't care much for ice cream either, but I have become addicted to frozen rasberry lemonade crystal lite.

[bbrianblaze]

You don't like ice cream!?!?!?! I have never heard of such a thing. :twak


It's NOT that I don't like it... it's just not a big temptation of mine. I don't often craaaave it. But a DQ Blizzard or some OSW now and again is :thumbsup :thumbsup

[MelissaDMBfan]

It's NOT that I don't like it... it's just not a big temptation of mine. I don't often craaaave it. But a DQ Blizzard or some OSW now and again is :thumbsup :thumbsup
phew. You are not totally insane then! ;)

[bbrianblaze]

:p :evil :p

[bbrianblaze]

Today I have to ride my brother's bike to and from the gym. I think it's a 3 mile ride or something like that. My legs are going to be killing me!


<saw your dilemma last night about whether or not to go... hope ya did.... by bike!!! :thumbsup

[caudio51]

off to the gym now....been seeing some great results....just started taking an Animal Pak daily along with some Optimum Nutrition 100% whey

hows everyone else doing?

[theTabasco®Kid]

I just switched to morning workouts. Over the past three weeks something has prevented me from working out at night every single time I tried... Mostly, now that the boys are on summer vacation, and they stay up until 9, and I play with or otherwise entertain them, I find it's just too late to start exercising by the time I get the boys to bed...

So, it's up at 5:30 for me now.

[bbrianblaze]

<got past a physical "obstacle" on June 8st and have been kinda slacking since then...

But some of the guys have set up a pretty nice gym at the firehouse now so at least I head there now and then.

[Pig(..)_Duff]

the atkins diet is crap, my doctor went outta his way to make sure i wasnt on it cuz he hates it so bad too. I say eat anything you like, just in moderation. limit snacks, eat big meals. I am 22 now, for the last 4-6 years I have weighed 120-130 lbs, and i have fought to get it up and keep it around 130. in the past 3-6 months i started to go to the gym more regularly and focus on eating 1 big meal and 1-2 medium meals a day of anything I want. I have put on 20 lbs of muscle since then with the help of protein powder, and an hour of weightlifting 3 times a week (normally minus a week here or there). now i dont feel like the scrouny white boy i once did. i am happy cuz i can still eat whatever I want, and i am not gaining any fat and can pull a stop to weight gain by cutting back on the amount of protein intake. eat what you want, work out, and just enjoy your health is my opinion.

[selkiegirl]

off to the gym now....been seeing some great results....just started taking an Animal Pak daily along with some Optimum Nutrition 100% whey

hows everyone else doing?Still a daily struggle, actually a moment to moment struggle, but all in all I am doing good:)

[jcantrell82]

Still a daily struggle, actually a moment to moment struggle, but all in all I am doing good:)

hey there, you sexy thang ;) :p

[selkiegirl]

hey there, you sexy thang ;) :pHey back, my little cheerio:)

[Trainer2375]

i need to get my ass back to the gym, i think i've gained 5 lbs this month. if only there was more time in the day :(

[Jsweeney]

well...posting to the original idea...
I am a wellness director at a college. I see numerous ideas on weight training and weight loss. My student assitant lost some serious weight on atkins but i am very against it. I firmly believe there are two things to be aware of:
1. Caloric intake
2. being active

especially you college age kids, it takes no time at all after graduation to see the weight come on. You are used to eating whatever and doing whatever you want to your body. Be very aware of what you are putting into your system and what you are doing to keep your body functioning properly.
Everyone is different and you need to look for what works best for you. Dropping 100-200 calories a day can see 2-4 lbs per month drop off your total weight.
For every bad habit you may have, attack them one by one each time replacing them with a good eating/healthy habit.
one trick that has worked for me is a reward day: eat healthy and work out all week than have a beer/ some pizza/ ice cream, etc...one day per week. You will feel how food influences your body and mind when you are aware.
i'll stop rambling...be healthy!

[Trainer2375]

:thumbsup You are right on Jim!

i gianed almost 20 lbs in college basically becuase i ate a bunch of shit, i drank a lot of beer and i wasn't half as active as i was in HS. I played 3 sports in hs, so even though i worked out, it just was never enough to make up for it.

1. Caloric Intake
2. Physical activity

that is all you need! As soon as i was out of college, all the weight seriusly just dropped right off and i was just as active as in college, but i ate so much better :)

now i work two jobs so i never have time to work out and have gained some weight, it sucks :(

[FPrefect61]

It's been about 4 weeks since I started going to the gym. I'm starting to notice a little difference in the way I look. My arms are a little bigger, and there's a bit more bulk on my chest.

The biggest difference is the way I feel. I haven't had this much energy in a long long time. I'm more awake and alert during the day, I sleep like a baby at night. I'm not as crabby and I feel much more stable. This is probably the best I've ever felt, and I love it. :D

[selkiegirl]

i gianed almost 20 lbs in college basically becuase i ate a bunch of shit, i drank a lot of beer and i wasn't half as active as i was in HS. (
Talk about recycling!

[Trainer2375]

Talk about recycling!
:lol

okay, so i didnt' really eat shit :p

but i ate pizza, jack in the box, cafeteria food (which they spray calories on), a whole lot of nothing healthy :eek:

Tom, that is awesome! that's the best part about working out is the mass amount of energy you start to get! that is a great feeling :D

[FPrefect61]

:lol

okay, so i didnt' really eat shit :p

but i ate pizza, jack in the box, cafeteria food (which they spray calories on), a whole lot of nothing healthy :eek:

Tom, that is awesome! that's the best part about working out is the mass amount of energy you start to get! that is a great feeling :D
:) My goal is to be able to walk around the campsite in September and not be afraid to take my shirt off... ;)

[Trainer2375]

:) My goal is to be able to walk around the campsite in September and not be afraid to take my shirt off... ;)
:thumbsup it's always great to have goals! ;)

too bad my goal can't be to walk around wiht my shirt off :lol

[RuggerSelkie]

You could always walk around with your bra off.:)

[FPrefect61]

:thumbsup it's always great to have goals! ;)

too bad my goal can't be to walk around wiht my shirt off :lol
Well... It could be if you wanted to... :p

[Trainer2375]

You could always walk around with your bra off.:)
that's more a possiblity...bras are so overrated :)

[caudio51]

the atkins diet is crap, my doctor went outta his way to make sure i wasnt on it cuz he hates it so bad too. I say eat anything you like, just in moderation. limit snacks, eat big meals. I am 22 now, for the last 4-6 years I have weighed 120-130 lbs, and i have fought to get it up and keep it around 130. in the past 3-6 months i started to go to the gym more regularly and focus on eating 1 big meal and 1-2 medium meals a day of anything I want. I have put on 20 lbs of muscle since then with the help of protein powder, and an hour of weightlifting 3 times a week (normally minus a week here or there). now i dont feel like the scrouny white boy i once did. i am happy cuz i can still eat whatever I want, and i am not gaining any fat and can pull a stop to weight gain by cutting back on the amount of protein intake. eat what you want, work out, and just enjoy your health is my opinion.

eating one big meal isnt the right way to gain muscle, 5-6 small meals throughout the day would do you better

[Jsweeney]

It's been about 4 weeks since I started going to the gym. I'm starting to notice a little difference in the way I look. My arms are a little bigger, and there's a bit more bulk on my chest.

The biggest difference is the way I feel. I haven't had this much energy in a long long time. I'm more awake and alert during the day, I sleep like a baby at night. I'm not as crabby and I feel much more stable. This is probably the best I've ever felt, and I love it. :D
keep up the good work!!! :bounce

[digitaldj]

Stressed out lately? I know I am. I've been juggling two jobs and a lovely lady from Jersey in an effort to keep the relationship and also pay off debts from school and various financial needs. It's easy to look at the problems that face us in our immediate time frame and forget how important it is to remember why we brought all this obligation on ourselves in the first place.

I recently read up on stress and how to deal and this is the best piece of advice I think came out of my research. Jon Favreau (who has written and directed movies like Elf, Rudy and Swingers and also created the show Dinner for Five) gave his best advice for dealing with stress to Men's Health recently. This is what he had to say.

Do what you doodle - Favreau remembers always making drawings of something he wanted or obsessed about. Now he takes the things that always made him take his mind off "work" and builds them around his life. Step 1 in this process: Ask yourself what these doodle daydreams are to yourself. Step 2: Ask yourself very seriously why you aren't pursuing them.

Limit Yourself and Choose Wisely - Favreau believes that energy and focus are extremely limited no matter who you are. Decide what is most important on your life's to-do list and throw everything you got into it, one or two projects at a time. And then hit your next target. "Like a sniper," Favreau says. The things you neglect may be more important than you forgot to remember, and vice-versa.

Take Your Time - Everyone has big ideas and bigger ideals about how they want things to be. Sometimes these dreams become our worst enemies, simply because they seem so impossible to achieve. Want to play guitar as well as Tim Reynolds? Focus on being about as good as Dave at first. Or maybe even John Lennon. Settle for smaller goals now, because the big ones won't come without consistent time and effort.

:)

[MoBb]

I should seriously be taking notes here.. To bad im such a lazy-ass..

[il bacio dolce]

Anybody know how much it costs to go to Curves? Do you pay by the month or by the session?

[Bambie4284]

I've got a question...

When I do work out my abs, I can 'feel the burn' after a bit of exercise and by the end of it, they're totally exhausted. The next day, they don't hurt at all. Am I doing something wrong?

[digitaldj]

I've got a question...

When I do work out my abs, I can 'feel the burn' after a bit of exercise and by the end of it, they're totally exhausted. The next day, they don't hurt at all. Am I doing something wrong?


Not neccessarily. I know how easy it is to trust soreness as a sign of a good workout. While next day soreness is a definite indication of how hard or how challenging an exercise was for you, it is no indicator of how effective the exercise was for you.

In other words, your abs don't burn the next day and that's okay. It doesn't mean they didn't get worked out and improved from the exercise. If you're feeling the burn at the time of the exercise, then that's what matters most. :)

[dstites]

I'm probably the only person that has gone to college and lost weight.

60 lbs since December...working on getting to 190...but I'm stuck and I've been stuck on my current weight for about a week now...and I'm going crazy and don't know what to do since I go to Gold's Gym 5x a week and eat less than 1350 cals per day...

[prilo]

I've cut out all fast food and soda. Right now it's an all chicken, turkey, brown rice, wheat things and lotsa water goin' on. I need to lose 5lbs to be able to fit into my short-shorts and cute warm weather clothes from last summer. Basically, I need to shed my annual dose of winter-ass. Come on girls...you know what I'm talkin' about. Those 5-10 lbs of winter-ass you put on every winter. :mad:

exactly thats the thing i need to do too, even though everyone says im too skinny already i feel quite fat

[bbrianblaze]

<had BK fries (and a Chicken Whopper sans the mayo) last night... :freak



I *had to* though... we were on the run and the choices were extremely limited....

[Sarah]

I'm probably the only person that has gone to college and lost weight.

60 lbs since December...working on getting to 190...but I'm stuck and I've been stuck on my current weight for about a week now...and I'm going crazy and don't know what to do since I go to Gold's Gym 5x a week and eat less than 1350 cals per day...


Maybe your body has hit a plateu, and you need to change your workout up a bit. I have to change mine up every few weeks or so, because I workout so much and my body gets used to it. For instance; For a few weeks I'll stick to my 1hr 15min(1000 calories) cardio workouts on the eliptical machine, and the classes I do 4 times a week.. But when I change it up, I'll still do the classes, but only about 45 minutes on the eliptical(or 500-600 calories.)


Although the last few weeks I've been doing awful, but it's probably good for me. I've been working out hardcore for the last 6 months, so my body is probably welcoming the break.

[caudio51]

I'm probably the only person that has gone to college and lost weight.

60 lbs since December...working on getting to 190...but I'm stuck and I've been stuck on my current weight for about a week now...and I'm going crazy and don't know what to do since I go to Gold's Gym 5x a week and eat less than 1350 cals per day...

bump up your carlories/carbs for one or two days...need to spike the metabolism again

[digitaldj]

Speaking of plateaus....

So maybe you've lost an incredible amount of weight.....30, 40, 50+ lbs...Congratulations, that's freaking incredible.....But now all you want is another 10 or 15 lbs and then you'll be at the exact body you started for in the first place. And that last 10-15 lbs is not giving in, no matter how hard you try.....Here are the best 4 strategies I can recommend for burning the last bit of stubborn fat...

1. Look into a meal plan - Go to a book store and kill an afternoon reading as much as you can about different diet plans. There are so many out there that fit so many different dynamics: low-carb, low-fat, Mediterranean, South-Beach, Testosterone, Vegetarian, et al. Take one or two home that interest you and give em a whirl. The experience will be interesting because you'll probably learn alot about what goes into our food, how it affects your body and also how to make it yourself. I've come to realize from my research that some diets may be "healthier" than others. An example, Vegetarians will swear up and down that followers of Atkins are gonna die an early death even if they die in good shape. But Atkins followers will bump into a Vegetarian and watch his/her chest cave in....Anyway...The point is this: Don't be afraid to experiment. There is no right meal plan for everyone, but there is a right one for you and it may be a combination of more than one.

2. Challenge Your Routine - Many people lose a ton of weight doing the same routine for several months simply because they were in such bad shape to begin with. But when when we're near the end of the journey with only a few more pounds to lose, serious changes have to be made often. Whatever your routine is, vary it every time you workout. Change it completely every 4 or so weeks. Do your exercises in a different order. Instead of using enough weight for 12 reps, increase it what you can do in 8 reps....or decrease it enough for 16 reps. Then in four weeks, pick out all new exercises for the same muscle groups. The more you surprise your body with new exercises for the same muscles, the harder it rebounds with strength gains and fat burn.

3. Intensify Cardio - How long does it take you to work out? Many people, spend so much time on a treadmill or elliptical trainer that they cause a spike in cortisol in their bloodstream which lowers their metabolism for the rest of the day. (Don't know what cortisol is? I'll explain it some other time.) A workout is supposed to supplement your day, not hinder it. Take the time you spend on cardio and cut it in half and do whatever you can to make it tougher in shorter time. Vary inclines and resistance. In 5 or so more workouts cut that time in half again (for many of you that will bring your cardio time to 15 minutes). Then reduce finally to the most intense session you can muster in 12 minutes and stack it at the end of your weight routine, when your body is ripe with rushing lactic acid and adrenaline. An intense session of cardio after a weight routine is asking alot of your body, but you'll most likely find that it's up to the task. Speaking of your weight routine, shorten it also. Find a way to keep it around 40 minutes. Can't fit all the muscles into that block of time? Then alternate more than one routine that covers everything in two workouts. I'll explain why in point 4. Intensity is the name of the game when fighting fat. So that also means that you may need to actually go to the gym less.

4. Yes, I said less - Going 5-6 days a week? Cut that to 3 times. Why? Work harder, rest harder. If you're constantly varying workouts and trying new routines and then tearing through short, intense sessions of cardio afterward, your body is doing a shitload of work in a very short time. You'll probably feel dog tired afterward, but you'll realize that a quick shower and healthy snack/meal afterward will spike your energy and metabolism levels respectively. Resting an entire day before going back to the gym will result in stronger, leaner gains for your body and you'll spend less time working out and more time, eh, I don't know, taking care of the 50-disc B+P you've been putting off for a year....

[il bacio dolce]

Need more exercise.... really out of shape... *Sigh* It's so hard to start when you think about it in advance, so easy once you get into it...

[theTabasco®Kid]

I had one of my best workouts EVER this morning... It honestly felt like nothing could tire out my biceps... I kept adding weight, and kept doing more curls... I finally quit on the premise that I might be hurting myself at some point, so stop before you find out the hard way.

[watchtwrwildcat]

started training for ATL marathon on Tues.

[dmb1spe]

I need to get back in shape... I still have my football player mentality and eating havits without the furnace metabolism. :(

[theTabasco®Kid]

started training for ATL marathon on Tues.
I don't like the thought of DRIVING 26 miles... Running 26 miles? FUCK THAT!

But, good luck! You'll kick major ass!

[mrottondo]

hi, my name is Marcelo and i never workout, hence the big belly

[theTabasco®Kid]

hi, my name is Marcelo and i never workout, hence the big belly
Get out of this thread, chubby!

(You know I'd still do ya!)

[dmb1spe]

Oh whatever Marc... you are a skinny little dude... you know it.

[mrottondo]

(You know I'd still do ya!)you've been quoted, mr

[watchtwrwildcat]

I don't like the thought of DRIVING 26 miles... Running 26 miles? FUCK THAT!

But, good luck! You'll kick major ass!
Yeah, we'll see. I just want to finish in under 3:30.

[mrottondo]

Oh whatever Marc... you are a skinny little dude... you know it.
nah, i have my proud belly

[dmb1spe]

Dude... it would take me 3 days to run 26 miles.

[nonewdirections]

i'm getting into cycling and my diet is improving too. still high carbs, but for me that isn't a problem, it's my exercise fuel and i can handle it. haven't missed a day of exercise for the past 2 weeks or so (tennis or running on my break days, or just an easy cycling day, so i don't totally wear myself out).

[mwjorgens]

i'm getting into cycling and my diet is improving too. still high carbs, but for me that isn't a problem, it's my exercise fuel and i can handle it. haven't missed a day of exercise for the past 2 weeks or so (tennis or running on my break days, or just an easy cycling day, so i don't totally wear myself out).
the carb craze is bs. im all carbs and i maintain my weight. drink beer everynight. work a crazy ass 7-330 everyday and play basketball on tues and fri. love my life righyt now

[digitaldj]

the carb craze is bs. im all carbs and i maintain my weight. drink beer everynight. work a crazy ass 7-330 everyday and play basketball on tues and fri. love my life righyt now


While I can't say that I don't believe you, you may be surprised what your doctor might tell you if you went in for a physical. There is a such thing as being fit and unhealthy. I have a younger brother who is extremely lean and extremely strong who works out only 1-2 times a week and generally eats pizza, fast-food and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. He's extremely athletic, but I wouldn't be surprised if the doctor told him his blood pressure was a little high due to maltnutrition.

Why should you worry? Because catching a problem such as that now could prevent it from becoming a much worse one in the future. In my brother's case, stopping mildly high blood pressure now prevents the possibility of a heart attack in the future...

[gypsie]

Yeah, we'll see. I just want to finish in under 3:30.
Good for you! I walked a marathon last April (finished in 6.5 hours), I would never dream of running walking was hard enough. Good luck!

As for my workout... I love working out! Spinninng, yoga, elliptical, aerobics, pilates, (just about anything except that body pump stuff) - as long as I'm sweating and burning calories I'm happy. I started exercising for the obvious reasons now it's an addiction. My advice is to find something you love and stick with it.
Life is too short to be dreading any minute.
Kellie:)

[watchtwrwildcat]

Good for you! I walked a marathon last April (finished in 6.5 hours), I would never dream of running walking was hard enough. Good luck!

If you are already in shape, you would be amazed at how fast your body adjusts to running. You would probably surprise yourself.

[gypsie]

If you are already in shape, you would be amazed at how fast your body adjusts to running. You would probably surprise yourself.
Although it is an excellent form of cardio for some and you get results quick, my body doesn't like the pounding. It's too easy to get an injury (stress fracture, sprain, strain, etc.) then I would have to find a way to work out with a cast or a splint on - god forbid I stop working out. I worked out with a fractured foot (that I clumsly got at a DMB show) while I was 9 months pregnant - so maybe the real answer is that I am too damn crazy to run.

[selkiegirl]

Just wanted to wish you all the best:) Health is something so many people take for granted, and it is great to see all the different ways people find their own healthy balance. It's all about the mind/body/soul connection. You cannot have a healthy body without first having a healthy mind.
Don't ever lose sight of that in your goals.

[bron]

:thumbsup I love this thread! I'm a really healty person..besides the fact that I smoke occasionally, but disregard that. I try to eat mostly organic foods, and rarely eat sugar, unless it's a special occasion or I'm on my period. I NEVER drink soda, only water or soy milk and sometimes natural fruit juices.

For workouts I do hot yoga, which I looooooove so much. I'm moving to Ottawa for school in a few weeks, and I had to sign up for the yoga classes that they offer in school because I wouln't be able to afford one outside of class, I'm going to miss hot yoga so much!!

Oh, I also signed up for kickboxing at school, which I'm really looking forward to. Has anyone tried it? Is it fun?

[watchtwrwildcat]

Hot yoga ROCKS!! One of my favorite workouts.

[dmb1spe]

I like yoga because chicks get flexible and they can do CRAZY things in the bedroom

[FPrefect61]

Maybe some of y'all healthier Ants can give me a hand with this. I'm looking for some more shoulder exercises for tomorrow. All I'm doing now is the military press for the shoulders and one exercise with the dumbells for my deltoids. I'm hoping to get a little more variety in my workout. Thanks! :)

Also, I'm running a lot more now than I used to. NYC Marathon in 2005, baby! :D

[gypsie]

:thumbsup I love this thread! I'm a really healty person..besides the fact that I smoke occasionally, but disregard that. I try to eat mostly organic foods, and rarely eat sugar, unless it's a special occasion or I'm on my period. I NEVER drink soda, only water or soy milk and sometimes natural fruit juices.

For workouts I do hot yoga, which I looooooove so much. I'm moving to Ottawa for school in a few weeks, and I had to sign up for the yoga classes that they offer in school because I wouln't be able to afford one outside of class, I'm going to miss hot yoga so much!!

Oh, I also signed up for kickboxing at school, which I'm really looking forward to. Has anyone tried it? Is it fun?
Kick boxing is fun and empowering. Just wait till you see how it changes your body, I felt way more chisled and stronger. I love hot yoga so much that I became a certified instructor, doesn't pay great but I do it for the love of it not the money that's just a bonus. Good luck in school!
Kellie

[bron]

Kick boxing is fun and empowering. Just wait till you see how it changes your body, I felt way more chisled and stronger. I love hot yoga so much that I became a certified instructor, doesn't pay great but I do it for the love of it not the money that's just a bonus. Good luck in school!
Kellie
I can't wait to try it...I'm looking forward to feeling stronger, and I hear it's a good form of self defense too. I've always meant to get around to learning something like that.

You're a hot yoga instructor? That's so cool! After I finish university I'm planning on taking the course to become certified. It's something I would really love to do part time or something.

[gypsie]

I can't wait to try it...I'm looking forward to feeling stronger, and I hear it's a good form of self defense too. I've always meant to get around to learning something like that.

You're a hot yoga instructor? That's so cool! After I finish university I'm planning on taking the course to become certified. It's something I would really love to do part time or something.
If there's anything I can do to help get ya' started let me know. There is a shortage of subs and that's a great way to get your foot in the door for your own class in the future.

[theTabasco®Kid]

Maybe some of y'all healthier Ants can give me a hand with this. I'm looking for some more shoulder exercises for tomorrow. All I'm doing now is the military press for the shoulders and one exercise with the dumbells for my deltoids. I'm hoping to get a little more variety in my workout. Thanks! :)

Also, I'm running a lot more now than I used to. NYC Marathon in 2005, baby! :D

Take 5 pound dumbells, hold them straight out to both sides (arms parallel to the ground) and make small circles with them for 20 reps, then reverse the direction of the circles and do 20 more. Then hold the weights straight out in front of you and do the same. Then bend at the waist so your upper body is parallel to the ground, and hold the weights out to the side again and do it again. This is more of a warm up.

Then do side raises with dumbells (raise dumbells from a resting position at your side, keep arms straight, raise them to shoulder height) , then raise them the same way but straight out in front of you, then bend at the waist and raise them out to the sides again.

Finally, cable rows hit the back 1/3 of your shoulder muscle pretty good. And there's always shrugs too, but they are more from your traps.

Kenny

[Fooltothink55]

I guess I try and stay healthy, I do day long hikes at least once a week. Only one more year until I do the Appalachian Trail. :)

[watchtwrwildcat]

those quacks in Hollywood are onto something with that raw food diet. I have a rather delicate system, and I have found that raw foods are always agreeable with me. Over the years, raw veggies, fruit and loads of sushi have become the staples of my diet and I have never felt healthier.

[FPrefect61]

Take 5 pound dumbells, hold them straight out to both sides (arms parallel to the ground) and make small circles with them for 20 reps, then reverse the direction of the circles and do 20 more. Then hold the weights straight out in front of you and do the same. Then bend at the waist so your upper body is parallel to the ground, and hold the weights out to the side again and do it again. This is more of a warm up.

Then do side raises with dumbells (raise dumbells from a resting position at your side, keep arms straight, raise them to shoulder height) , then raise them the same way but straight out in front of you, then bend at the waist and raise them out to the sides again.

Finally, cable rows hit the back 1/3 of your shoulder muscle pretty good. And there's always shrugs too, but they are more from your traps.

Kenny
Awesome, I'll give this a try tonight, thanks, Kenny! :)

[bron]

those quacks in Hollywood are onto something with that raw food diet. I have a rather delicate system, and I have found that raw foods are always agreeable with me. Over the years, raw veggies, fruit and loads of sushi have become the staples of my diet and I have never felt healthier.
Yeah...that raw food diet thing makes sense, and seems really healthy. I don't think I could do it though. I have a really sensitive digistive system too and I already have enough to follow...I can't handle any more!

[watchtwrwildcat]

Yeah...that raw food diet thing makes sense, and seems really healthy. I don't think I could do it though
I don't follow it stringently or anything, raw foods just tend to be the staple of my diet.

[laron384]

I feel pretty healthy. :D

[theTabasco®Kid]

So, Tom... How'd it go?

Just completed my workout... I couldn't lift my hands over my head right now if you paid me. I LOVE this feeling!

[bron]

So, Tom... How'd it go?

Just completed my workout... I couldn't lift my hands over my head right now if you paid me. I LOVE this feeling!
I love that feeling too, lol. It's good pain.

[Dave G]

Rode my bicycle to work today. On the road at 5:30 watching the sunrise, what a great way to start the day

[Crush me Grey]

wow! i cant imagine exercising in the morning...my body just doesnt function..

[bron]

Exercising in the morning is my favourite! It takes a lot out of me to actually get out of bed and go jogging or get on my bike or whatever, but when it's done, I'm energized for the whole day!

[Crush me Grey]

i should try that once in a while... i just dont think i could make myself get up..lol

[Dave G]

Exercising in the morning is my favourite! It takes a lot out of me to actually get out of bed and go jogging or get on my bike or whatever, but when it's done, I'm energized for the whole day!

I agree, I almost bailed and took the car to work because it was getting late. But you remember how nice it is after that first mile or so when you get in the zone. With some DMB in the headphones I can't think of a better way to start the day

[Crush me Grey]

oh dmb.. they definitely pump me up!! last night when i worked out, i listened to live in chicago 98..

[FPrefect61]

So, Tom... How'd it go?

Just completed my workout... I couldn't lift my hands over my head right now if you paid me. I LOVE this feeling!
I can't feel my shoulders. :lol

[bron]

I agree, I almost bailed and took the car to work because it was getting late. But you remember how nice it is after that first mile or so when you get in the zone. With some DMB in the headphones I can't think of a better way to start the day
Yeah, you have to remember how good you feel. I'm going to yoga today right after work, I practically had to force myself to bring my mat and clothes and stuff to work, cause I was sure I would bail out. I sooooo don't feel like going today.

[bbrianblaze]

Exercising in the morning is my favourite! It takes a lot out of me to actually get out of bed and go jogging or get on my bike or whatever, but when it's done, I'm energized for the whole day!


Agree.


But it's that getting out of bed thing that gets me everytime!!!!!! :BANG

[theTabasco®Kid]

I can't feel my shoulders. :lol
That means you did it right!

[FPrefect61]

That means you did it right!
Apparently. :)

Figures today everyone wants me to do heavy lifting for them. I have no feeling in my shoulders and arms, leave me alone! :lol

[gypsie]

Both of my kids are napping so I'm motivating myself to get on the ellipitical. I am planning on taking a spin class tonight and I'm thinking of all of these things that need to be done around the house - ENOUGH! I am getting on in a couple of minutes you guys convinced me. Thanks! (i'm not bipolar, a bit flakey, not bipolar at least I don't think I am )Hopefully the kids will sleep long enough for me to lift some free weights.
Kellie

[FPrefect61]

Bringing this thread back from the dead for a few questions.

Some of you know I'm in training for the NYPD. I've been running and lifting like crazy for the past few months. I'm happy to say I'm in the best shape of my life right now. I've doubled the amount I can bench press, I can run more than ever before without getting tired, and I generally have more energy then ever before.

But it's not enough. I need to work on my legs and abs more, but I'm not sure where to start. What are some good beginning exercises for this, then some intermediate ones? Any help would be greatly appreciated. :D

[angelces]

wow seeing this thread again is going to make someone I know smile. :)

what do you do for abs now Tom?

[FPrefect61]

wow seeing this thread again is going to make someone I know smile. :)

what do you do for abs now Tom?
Ummm, I quit drinking, that's about it. :lol

I really don't work my abs or legs at all.

[angelces]

well you should try a couple of sets of sit ups on the inclined bench.

It's not about the number of cruches but how long you take to do them. better to do 10 slow situps than 100 crunches. also be sure to work your lower back as well as your abs.

Do you know that machine where you stand leaning forward and you can let your chest hang over and you straighten yourself up to standing using your gluts and lower back. that's a good one.

You also want to make sure you work your obliques as well. So when you do your sit ups do a set to each side in between your sets in the middle. The good thing for you is that ab exercises will build the muscle under your fat but cardio is what gets rid of ab flab. since you're already doing that you should be in phenominal shape when you combine those two efforts.

[FPrefect61]

I think I understand that, but I'm not sure what position to put my body in to work the obliques.

And I'm pretty sure I know the maching you're talking about. It works the lower back and has a seatbelt, right?

[FPrefect61]

I also thought that some form of situps were bad for your back or something?

Basically I want to be able to do most of the academy requirements for graduation before I even get in. To graduate, I have to run a mile and a half in 12:38 (doable by April), bench press 92% of my body weight once (doable by graduation from the academy), and do 41 situps in 1 minute (this is what I'd like to start working on now.)

[theTabasco®Kid]

I have to run a mile and a half in 12:38 (doable by April),

How'd you know April could do that?
She runs really fast... especially when I piss her off and try to run away. :D

BTW, here is a link to one of the most comprehensive and intense ab workouts. I have run across several recommendations to use this program on several different workout websites: http://www.musclemedia.com/training/BootCamp.asp

Good luck Tom!

[FPrefect61]

How'd you know April could do that?
She runs really fast... especially when I piss her off and try to run away. :D
It's obvious she didn't marry you for your sense of humor...

[angelces]

use an ab machine for your curls to learn how to put your body in the right position. then when you are done with your first set. take your knees and lay them to the right side with your feet in line with your butt. then do another set with your legs like this (this you will feel more than your center set) drop your knees to the other side then do another set. then put your knees back pointing at the do your center set again.

if you want to work your lower abs put your feet in the air crossed and do a set like that.

[FPrefect61]

I just read the ab workout Kenny sent. Holy crap, my stomach hurts just reading it! :lol

[FPrefect61]

I'm trying those vacuums now. :lol

[GoodDayIIDie]

*smiles*

Tom, check out a book that's out right now called the Abs Diet. There's a great workout routine in there for working your stomach but also plenty of easy to make recipes for raising your metabolism, which will help you reduce your overall body fat content as you go throughout your day.

For you legs start doing squats and dead lifts. I recommend doing a 4-5 sets of squats once a week before you regular workout, going for very heavy sets of what you can lift 4-6 times. Make the first set about 60-75% of what you want to actually lift and then the second set your planned weight.

Another day out of the week do the same routine, but for deadlifts. Both of these exercises are hardcore stabilizer exercises that make you use about 85% of the muscles in your body to lift. They contribute to massive muscle breakdown while working out, which in turn means plenty of muscle rebuildling, which in turn means lots of burned calories at the end of the day, which will contribute to you seeing your abs better.

[neumdogg]

This thread has come around at a perfect time. I joined a gym 3 weeks ago. Got my self a trainer, who I saw for the last time yesterday. He finally gave me a great routine to do everytime im in the gym. I can't wait to get back in there this week and start getting rid of the beer gut! Now maybe I should quit smoking.

[il bacio dolce]

I'm planning on/considering joining a gym after the new year.

[FPrefect61]

*smiles*

Tom, check out a book that's out right now called the Abs Diet. There's a great workout routine in there for working your stomach but also plenty of easy to make recipes for raising your metabolism, which will help you reduce your overall body fat content as you go throughout your day.

For you legs start doing squats and dead lifts. I recommend doing a 4-5 sets of squats once a week before you regular workout, going for very heavy sets of what you can lift 4-6 times. Make the first set about 60-75% of what you want to actually lift and then the second set your planned weight.

Another day out of the week do the same routine, but for deadlifts. Both of these exercises are hardcore stabilizer exercises that make you use about 85% of the muscles in your body to lift. They contribute to massive muscle breakdown while working out, which in turn means plenty of muscle rebuildling, which in turn means lots of burned calories at the end of the day, which will contribute to you seeing your abs better.
Question: What are squats and what are dead lifts? :lol

[neumdogg]

I'm planning on/considering joining a gym after the new year.
I'm in so much fucking pain right now, but its worth it.

[Crush me Grey]

ooooo ooooo im a healthy ant :D i think i will love this thread. im obsessed with working out :lol i go to the gym everyday. im trying to figure out a way to reduce my body fat after losing 60 pounds, i still have a lot of body fat that i wanna tone

[FPrefect61]

It's like sex. It hurts the first time, but gets better the more you do it.

[il bacio dolce]

:lol Starting exercise is the worst part.

I wonder if the place would be willing to arrange so I could pay by the week since I basically live from paycheck to paycheck, and get them weekly. After the new year is surely their busy time of year.

[FPrefect61]

Wow, I didn't know you lost that much weight, congrats, Lindsey! :thumbsup

[Crush me Grey]

thanks tom :) it took me a full year but i did it :D you should see the pics of me from before i lost all the weight.. wow
i was backreading and i forgot id already posted in here :lol but i still do wanna work on toning!

[angelces]

I lost 50 pounds gained 20 back after the stupid shot. need to lose that and a bunch more.

[il bacio dolce]

I also have an exercise ball (or stability ball) but I think that it is too big for me to do the exercises I found on it...

[neumdogg]

thanks tom :) it took me a full year but i did it :D you should see the pics of me from before i lost all the weight.. wow
i was backreading and i forgot id already posted in here :lol but i still do wanna work on toning!
Congrats! Thats awesome.....I hope you reach your final goal.

[FPrefect61]

I lost 50 pounds gained 20 back after the stupid shot. need to lose that and a bunch more.
And if I know you, you'll do it. :)

[FPrefect61]

I weigh about the same as I did before going to the gym, but I've lost a bunch of the fat, and put on a ton of muscle on my chest, shoulders and arms.

[Crush me Grey]

Congrats! Thats awesome.....I hope you reach your final goal.
id say that 60 and keeping it off was my "final goal" i guess. i lost it in 2002 so im doing alright. the thing is once your body has been overweight for that long, it doesnt bounce back so quickly after the initial weight is shed..thats frusterating!!!

[angelces]

And if I know you, you'll do it. :)
thanks. weight is a frustrating battle. especially when food tastes sooo good. :lol

[il bacio dolce]

I told Matt I was thinking of joining a gym. He sa