long time looker, first time talker!

[Kai3]

Hey everybody! I've been lurking around this site for quiet some time, and finally decided to pipe up. I was hoping for some useful tips, and perhaps encouragement along the way.

Stats: 5'7", 165lbs

Goal: 140 lbs

Time frame: by December 31

So, is this a realistic goal? What sort of calorie range should I be eating each day, and how much should I try to burn at the gym?

Is it ok to go out drinking once or twice a week with my friends?

Sorry for all the questions, and I am glad to finally be part of this awesome site!

 

[PaulK]

Kai-
I have always heard 2#/week as a goal so your goal is do able. I'm horrible at counting calories but good at little changes, dump the mayo, trade turkey burgers for beef, measure out your snacks even if you don't count the calories.

Get your heart into the aerobic zone for 30 minutes 3x/week. Once you can do that add 5 minutes and/or increase the intensity. Weight training also helps, muscle burns calories even when you're sleeping. I was doing crazy cardio, bicycling 60-90 minutes 4-5 days/week and had still plateau'ed. I recently got back into weight training 3x/week, cut my 90 min bike rides to 60 and lost another 10#.

Of course you can still go out with your friends. You need to treat yourself if you want to make permanent changes. Still think about what you are drinking...lite beer, rum & diet coke...don't expect to drink 3-4 pints of Guinness and expect to loose weight

If your weight loss starts to slow see how your clothes are fitting. You may get to the point where you are loosen fat and gaining weight...the scale won't show anything but the mirror will.

Remember think long term. That way you only have to loose the 15# once not 10 times...

Keep it up you can do this. I lost 125# and I'm an old man (44)

-PaulK