Overweight Underhealthy Need Help!

[Miss Sarah]

Hi, My name is Sarah. I am almost 44 years old. I am about 50 pounds overweight (5'5" and 170 pounds). I am terribly out-of-shape--nearly 40% body fat!!!! :eek:

Do I sound pathetic enough??? ;-)

Ahhhh...back in the olden days, in the 1980s I was a Firmie. Yep. I weighed about 120 pounds and a lot of it was muscle. I wore a size 4.

Fast forward to now. I went to a Weight Watchers meeting last week because I am desperate to gain back my healthy, slender self. I only paid for one meeting. The meeting was less-than-inspiring. However, I could try various leaders, etc.

It would cost over $100 for three months of meetings. I began to think...hmmm...I could do other things with that money. I remember The Firm. I loved those tapes and practically wore them out.

I checked out "The Firm" and found the new Firm videos first. They just didn't sound like they had the same "feel" as the old Firms. I decided to continue my Internet web search. Lo and behold, I found THIS site!

Maybe I should spend my money on these new tapes? Maybe I am crazy and need to go to Weight Watchers?

If you were this old and this fat and this out-of-shape, what would you do?

Thank you already to everyone. :)

Sarah

[goldengirl52]

I would do both. Buy these videos and join WW. I've been there..done that..used to weigh 250!!!pounds. I'm within 30-35 pounds of my goal now. You CAN do it sweetie. That's what we're here for....PM me if you'd like to...Janice

[stacy4ft9]

I would definitely get these workouts AND check in here everyday for motivation and inspiration! I would also suggest easing slowly into a routine. I sometimes think people have a tendancy to pile on too many changes at once. Perhaps you can workout 3x per week and then increase it when you feel ready. Take a look at what you are eating and see what changes you feel comfortable with making there.

This forum is absolutely wonderful at keeping people motivated and inspired. I don't know what I'd do without it! Ask any questions because you will get lots of answers -- everyone here is lovely!!

[Tarheels]

Hi, Sarah, and welcome! Think of this as a fresh start. You are NOT a failure (I sense that you feel that way from your post). You ARE a SUCCESS. I'll be reading about YOU a few months from now on how well you are doing. Stick around, we've got tons of support to offer here! :D

[Redeye]

I checked out "The Firm" and found the new Firm videos first. They just didn't sound like they had the same "feel" as the old Firms.



No, they are not like the old Firms. Even though they are different, I like them, but some people don't.

I think the WHFNs will be more like the old Firms than anything else on the market today. Have you checked out the clips?

Miss Sarah, you sound a little overwhelmed to me. Don't think because you are 44 and not fit, that it's hopeless. I didn't start getting into fitness until I was 40 (I'm 57 now). I can't believe the changes I made; I've reached all my goals and even surpassed a few.

You can do it, and this is just the place you need to start. WW is a good idea and exercise videos are also. Give yourself some credit for being on the right track, GF. :)

[kkallus1]

Welcome!!!
Like you, many of us miss the feel of the old Firms. I think you will like Fitprime and you will find allot of women just like you here-busy women with jobs, households, etc and a desire to stay fit!! Check out the clips if you haven't yet. Keep in touch-and we are glad you found this site.

[Vanessa]

Welcome, Sarah!

So glad you found us! You will love it here! I think you can reach your goal working out... using the FP's! They are wonderful. Exercise and eat clean....that's the key!

[Amber]

Hi Sarah! I just wanted to welcome you and congratulate you on wanting to change your lifestyle. I truly believe that is the first step! There are some incredibly inspiring and motivating ladies on this forum. As far as your age, 44 is NOT old by any means! I think the new FP workouts may be just what you are looking for! I wish you much success and I know you'll be back to your Firm self in no time!

[Miss Sarah]

Everyone is so kind! I am feeling more confident already.

Vanessa, what do you mean when you say to "eat clean?" I admit that I am a bit clueless about all of the healthy lingo. I'm assuming eating clean is more than washing my hands before meals! http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/wink.gif

Should I eat more often each day? Low carb? Low fat? Low calorie?

My head is spinning not knowing who to ask and who to trust--seems "experts" disagree with this. Even Weight Watchers has two diet choices now.

How much time will I need to devote to "health" each day. Yes, I know I'm worth it but as a teacher/homemaker/homeschooling mother, I need to know!

I am soooo anxious to be one of the ones GIVING advice instead of the one needing advice!!! And when I AM one of the advice-givers, I hope I am as kind as each of you has been. http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/smile.gif

Sarah

[kkallus1]

Sarah-for most of us, eating clean means cutting out sugars and over processed food.
It is hard to make a decision, I know. You may need to do some research on what is easiest for you. I could not maintain Adkins, but do well on phase 2 of the South Beach Diet(phase 1 is too much like Adkins for me). The main thing is to get lean protein and healthy natural carbs along with sources of "good" fats. And yes, it is possible to fit in small meals, trust me. I work at an elementary school as a diagnostiician(kind of like a school pyschologist in some states) and with planning, I can get in two small snack during the work day. Keep posting those questions. There are allot of knowledgable folks around here!!!

[newbodi]

Boy you are really hard on yourself. Good eating and exercising go hand in hand. You can't have one without the other. Maybe there are some nutrition books that you can get from the library that can help you with your eating. Do you like WW. If you do and it has been successful for you, it may just be worth it to you to spend the money. Maybe you can buy some of the FitPrime tapes or use what you have.

[Vanessa]

Yes, try to eat foods in their natural state...not processed.....fruits, veggies, good fats, etc., as Kathy said.

Go to the health food store and try the Ezekial bread and tortillas, if you like breads. They are made from live grains. You have to keep it in your refrigerator. Try flaxseed oil/lemon on your salads, instead of processed dressings. You may not like these things at first, but I have acquired a taste for them. If you stick around here you will learn lots of good hints. I read the Fat Flush Plan book and got several ideas from that. I didn't go on the diet, but it helped me clean up my diet. I think if you just try to eat healthy and exercise the rest will follow...make it a lifestyle.

[kkallus1]

It is really amazing the difference using things like fresh lemon can make isn't it Vanessa? I added some to a dish last night along with some rosemary and it had a great flavor.

[lgarwood4]

Sarah, you are by no means pathetic!! Yet, I do understand that feeling. It is a challenge to get healthy, yet one that has rewards beyond measurement!!! This forum is a great place to share your feelings, successes, failures. Were all here for each other and of course ourselves. I will never judge you, and I'm sure alot of these women will say the same thing. It's great to check in and read what others have to say, because it's inspiring! Getting some type of food and exercise plan down will help you make the right choices. It's like a road, and it's better to stay on the road than to veer off onto detours. And what plan that is, is up to you and only you. As you go along, you'll realize what works for you personally. Overwhelm is a scary place to be, so take a big deep breath, and do the next thing in front of you. Of course I say all this with compassion, not dictation. And you are not old!:)

[triciajenn]

I agree that both are important. There are cheaper alternatives to attending WW meetings unless you need that external motivation. You don't sound that enthusiastic about it so it may not be for you. What about ediets.com? Another suggestion would be to make some lifestyle changes that will become habits for life, not a temporary diet.

I know this first-hand. I'm 33 y.o., stay-at-home-mom to four children ages 6,4,2, and newborn. I have 20 more pounds to lose to be at my ideal BMI of 125 at 5'1". I did this doing FIRM tapes 4-5 times a week and sensible eating. For me that meant eliminating soda and processed snack foods, eating only whole-grain carbs, and using salads and fruits as side-dishes, not another course.

I've made this easier on myself by not preparing separate meals for the family. They eat what I eat and have, therefore, benefitted also. I grocery shop with a list based on the menu I've put together ahead of time. You can get computer programs (Cook'n) to help with this or try something like "www.menumailer.net". I exercise at a time that is conveinent for all so there's a great probability it will get done without interruptions. That time for me is at 8pm as soon as the kids go to bed. For some, that time may be during afternoon naps, at sunrise or joining a gym with childcare.

My weight loss has been slow but consistent. Most importantly, I feel I've made great strides in changing my lifestyle. Exercise is a time I look forward to each evening. I have found my sleep at night to be much more restful and I'm ready to get up each morning rather than drag out of bed. I have tons of energy all day without the need for naps. I feel that I'm sitting and walking taller and getting stronger, leaner and more toned each day. I am 100% certain that 2005 is the year I will reach my goals.

Tricia

[tazcatmeow]

You are right. The new firms are not like the old ones. I took a 3 year break from exercising after having a baby. I have been working out again for over a year now and I am so happy that I have my morning workouts back. It is my time!!! I am 42 (almost 43) 5'5". I went up to 142 pounds but with both old and new Firm workouts I am back to 124 pounds. I became more aware of what I am eating. I also read the 10,000 Step Diet book and incorporated those ideas into my day. I work in a manufacturing plant and walk laps around the inside (outside, weather permitting) on my break wearing a pedometer. Once home, I get my now 4 1/2 year son to run and play with me in the back yard before dinner. It adds up - find ways to keep moving.

I am so excited about these new dvds and I hope you will give them a try. I know I can't wait to get my hands on them and experience Anna's tried and true method to better health.http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/tongue.gif

[Vanessa]

You are right about the external motivation, Tricia. Some people do need it, just to get that jump start and that is okay....just get started, Sarah, you won't regret it. My sister just went on WW and has lost about 16 lbs. ; my SIL lost about 40, but the last time I saw her she had gained it back.....I think it is a decision! It's always all about the choices you make...what to eat, whether to exercise, etc.....EVERYDAY CHOICES! A LIFE TIME OF THEM.....A LIFESTYLE. It's just one day at a time!

Kathy, it is amazing how much a lemon can jazz up the taste! I've also been using lime lately. I have read so much about the befefits of green tea....I'm been drinking green tea with a squeezed 1/2 lime in it, with a tsp. of honey....I know honey is a sugar, but I only do it once a day, if that often. It's good though!

[NeonJungle]

Hi, Sarah! Welcome to WHFN, and it's great to have you here!

First off, you are not "this old and this fat." :p

You are just a woman, who like many of us, has found her self in a less optimal fitness state than we'd like to be! It happens to all of us; fitness is a journey, not a destination, so sometimes we have those periods -- whether a few months or a few years -- where we get off the workout/healthy living train and then have to get back on. :0

I'd say, first off, get a journal. Write down your fitness goals. If WW wasn't motivating, don't spend your money on it. It works for some (it worked for me when I did it) but it doesn't work for others.

So get that journal, write down where you want to be a year from now, and work backwards to plan how to get to that goal. I.e., "week one, I'll exercise 3x a week, whatever strikes my fancy. The important thing is to move."

"Week two, I'll add in some weight training, and a video workout at least once a week, making sure I don't try to go 'all out' and sabotage my efforts."

"Week three, I'll examine my nutritional intake, figure out which foods fuel my body, and which ones are wasted calories."

"Week four, I'll begin to elimiate those nutritionally-void foods, a few at a time, and increase the level of my exercise, either by adding days or upping the intensity."

Something like that. The important thing to remember, again, is that fitness is a journey, not a destination. So, you Firmie, you, in no time, you'll be back to regular exercising, and a few months from now, you'll be itching to wake up and workout! Six months from know, you'll be thinking, "Dang -- these jeans were tight, and now they won't even stay up on my hips!"

I'd say be sure to keep track of your measurements, too, since beginning a weight program can sometimes cause an uptick in the scale, since muscle retains water for its rebuilding process when a person begins working out or gets back on a regular program of working out.

Regarding ways of eating, just do what works for you. If WW doesn't, try South Beach or just try eliminating foods you tend to indulge in, a little at a time, and chew Eclipse gum when you want them but know you aren't hungry. Don't deprive your body, though. If you need the accountability of a checkin, join our 2005 Checkin! It's a great group of women who are at varying fitness levels, with various "life" responsibilities, and the women in that check in do a great job of inspiring each other. We'd love to have you! :)

And you ain't crazy, girl. You just want to get back in shape. :p

Take care,
Harper

[Miss Sarah]

Can I say MOTIVATED!!! You all have inspired me. I am trying to do things gradually. I am committed.

I like the idea of keeping a journal. I am starting that today.

First thing this morning I did my Leslie Sansone video--one of two videos I actually own because I bought them at a garage sale last summer. I had never even watched it before. But, I did two miles. It isn't exactly "Firmie" level yet, but I now know that I am on a journey and will get there again.

I am starting by writing down what I eat. Funny how that in itself keeps me from overeating. I don't want to write down something like "9 pm--Ate 12 cookies." So, just writing down what I eat is restraining.

You have all helped me to feel less "pathetic"! I'm definitely going to need support on this journey. I haven't decided about WW yet. But I have decided that I need to keep hanging around all of you. http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/smile.gif

Sarah

[snora]

Sarah,
You are on your way. Eating healthy - exercising. You can do all kinds of great things!

[Tarheels]

Sarah, I can feel your positive energy! It just abounds! :D

[NeonJungle]

Sarah, what Jenn said! :) And three snaps -- your motivation is working for you! Keep it up, and if you'd like, join one of our checkins! I'm a part of the 2005 checkin, and it's a fabulous group of women, as are all the other checkins. :) And trust me -- if you don't workout or eat well, they still want to hear from you. The women in my checkin have been great at helping me keep the motivation up through periods where workouts weren't in the cards.

You're doing great! You've got the motivation, and that rocks!

Take care,
Harper

[julycrochet]

I'm with alot of you out there I perfer the old firm I still do firm cardio with Hedi and Firm strength with pam I enjoy them more than the new firm .I going to try kick butt series and see how it goes.:D Elisa

[mbt]

hey, sarah
have you thought about doing ww online? i did that for a few months last fall and thought it was a good start. it's only about $20 a month. you get to use their online points tracker and a lot of recipes online. there are also lots of message boards there that you can go to for inspiration -- the message board are actually free, so you can check those out before joining. if you need some sort of external motivation, it's a cheap way to get it.

[Firm Believer]

Welcome Sarah,

Another option as far recording your food is fitday.com. You enter your food there and it calculates the calories and nutrients. You can pull reports and statistics that help you see trends and how to improve. It's FREE! :D

The three Firm Basics tapes might be a way to ease into your workouts. Leslie is great too.

My biggest and best suggestion is to commit to sticking with it no matter what. Eating plans come and go, workout rotations change, but commit to continue trying until you reach your goal.

[tazcatmeow]

Thanks for the tip on the food journal at fitday.com. I think I have been underestimating how many calories I am eating. I signed up and hope this will get me back on track. (darn girl scout cookies!!! :mad: )