The Silent Scream

[artchick]

So it's finally hit me. No. Not another fad diet, but a long overdue reckoning with a serious lifestyle change. The only problem is I'm not sure how to begin. In total, I have 225 pounds to lose, which is overwhelming in itself, but it needs to happen.

I realize in order to be successful, I have to be realistic with a diet and exercise program. I also realize that given my current health, I need to start small with exercising. Probably something low impact like a treadmill. I suppose at this point, any movement is better than no movement.

So yeah, I'm not sure exactly when I will begin this transformation, but I feel it building inside. It's going to be soon. I just need an established routine. A game plan, if you will. Any and all advice would be fantastic.

Some additional details: I'm 31. I have a 12 year old (who is healthy and fit). I have access to a gym with various equipment, but I'm unsure of how to use it, and there is not anyone there to ask as it's a free for all 24/7 sort of place. And currently I have no immediate health problems that would contradict an exercise program.

Thanks again!

 

[maleficent]

225 lbs to lose is do-able - while it seems overwhelming at first -- just go step by step and you'll slowly get there.

Walking is the best form of movement you're gonna get right now - just plan to walk for like 20 minutes a day and each day gradually move up to longer sessions.

about the only good advice I got from the personal trainer i had hired for a few sessions was on doing step ups - and that was just standing on one step and going to the next step - and repeat - starting at 40 seconds on each leg - and gradually increasing the time.

Get an account at and use it to accurately record your calories - as well as a decent kitchen scale and measuring cups - just so you know what you are eating.

DO NOT cut your calories drastically - it causes more harm than good long term - just gradually reduce -but it really helps to know what you are starting from - so use fit day and eat normally for a few days.

start yourself up a diary and use it to record your challenges and successes -and there will be lots of successes and as long as you're ready in your head - and it sounds like you are - you will be on the road to where you want to be.


good luck

 

[Kaitie]

Most of the equipment in gyms will have instructions printed on them, yeah I know it's kind of embarrassing walking up to a machine so I do the stalker method. I find a machine that I think I want to try and I'll covertly watch others as they use that machine so when I walk up to it I at least know how the levers move and somewhat what I should look like when using it.

Also, I find that people at the gym are really nice and will help you if you give them the 'what the heck should I do' look.

 

[artchick]

Thank you, Ladies, for the tips and the encouragement. This week I'm going to begin purging the pantry. I also like the "stalker" method for the gym equipment. lol.

In the meantime, I'm going to check out the Journal Section and continue devising a plan of action.

Thanks again!

 

[gizmonel]

Artchick anything and everything is possible if you believe in yourself.

I have started a series of daily tips that encourage people to start thinking lifestyle changes instead of losing weight. If you want more info i will be glad to send you it if you email me ok?

Losing 75 lbs and maintaining it for over 6 months has given me a new outlook on life and if there is one thing i can pass on its this is a life long journey there is no need to rush.

This journey is not about losing weight, in fact it has nothing to do with weight loss it has everything to do with how you see yourself internally and what your core beliefs.

Having Prader Willi Syndrome my hope was lost when doctors told me i would stay fat all my life and die young, well here i am 75 lbs lighter and have changed my life and career because i believed deep down that i could do something that seemed impossible to doctors.

Drop me an email i can help you along the way.

Head up high your worth it!