by Marie-Claude Bourque
It is amazing the see the number of writers who mentioned their need/desire to lose weight now that we have started the New Year. There is even a thread specific to weight lost at the Romance Divas Forum. So, since I’ve been hitting the blogosphere at 300 miles an hour in the last few months (because of the American Title final if you haven’t heard yet LOL), I’ve been thinking that finally, here is a topic I know back to front and that I can confidently blog about…lose weight and be fit!!!
Why listen to me
I’ve been a fitness professional from over 15 years. Until 6 months ago when I moved to Seattle, I was the group fitness director at the River Bend Athletic Club. I ran the aerobics/mind-body fitness program and taught on average 7 classes a week: aerobics, step, boot camp, kickbox, pilates. I also led consultion sessions with members who needed extra help to reach their goal. Prior to being a director, I personal trained and supervised weight rooms. I hold many nationally recognized fitness certifications in the US and Canada (AFAA, BCRPA, NSFA) and I worked in over 25 different fitness facilities, community centers, university gyms and in corporate fitness.
But I also know what it’s like to struggle with one’s weight, I am not naturally thin and I have always had to be extra diligent in my effort to stay at a healthy weight. In fact, it is by becoming a fitness expert and educating myself that I managed to keep the weight off. I gained 40 pounds with my first baby and shred that off too. Then gained 45 pounds with my second baby and shred it off. With a lot of work and dedication, I maintained my 113 pounds weight (I’m 5′2”) over 15 years. And having to stand in front of a group clad in mini spandex shorts kind of help staying away from the extra serving of lasagna!!
And what do I get out helping you.
So what do I get in writing this post? Well, I do miss my fitness job and I just love talking about diet, exercise and the million different ways to shape the gluteus maximus and… I’VE GAIN 7 POUNDS!!!!! In 9 months, since I’ve started writing!!!! (7 pounds on my 5 feet 2 is a lot BTW and if I gain 7 pounds a year, where will I be in 5 years….35 pounds overweight!) I NEED HELP….and motivation.
So here I am helping myself and possibly helping you in the mean time.
What’s in for you?
I’m planning a series of 6 posts where I’ll be addressing the specific challenges and solutions for writers. I’ll spend this week touching on the diet part of a good weight loss program (results are 80% diet-all fitness models/pros know this). Then next week, I’ll focus on the exercise part of weight loss (you do need exercise to keep it off). I’ll wrap up in the last week, answering questions if any, and giving tips on motivations.
I’ll also welcome a guest blogger, fitness instructor and romance author Rebecca J. Clark, whose novel Borrowed Stilettos will be out soon with The Rose Wild Press. Rebecca will be sharing her tips on how she manage to do it all!
I know what it is like to be at my computer for 5 hours straight and not notice. I know what it’s like to survive on coffee all day then ravage the fridge and stuff myself with bread and butter or chocolate bars. I know what it’s like to scoop up macaroni and cheese from my kids dinner because I am so hungry (and let’s face it…mac and cheese tastes pretty good!!!)
With a little planning, you can avoid these situations (and no, I won’t tell you to take mini breaks from the lap-top, because I know that for a writer, it is totally unrealistic to even try).
So I’ll be posting my tips every Tuesdays and Thursday, and I’ll hope you’ll ask me questions or comment and share. Because if you do, you can WIN!!!! For each post, I’ll offer a free fitness log to record your progress and a free one-on-one email consultation with me for up to 5 emails to help you reach your specific goals.
The truth and just the truth
So…let’s start!!!!
Do you want the truth? Losing weight is hard. I would love to look like Jennifer Aniston on the latest cover of GQ. But besides being totally airbrushed for that cover, she works hard at looking good. Many many hours a day, it’s her job. She works out, a lot, and watches everything she eats (if I can trust my OK magazine as a good source on JA lifestyle).
The gal kickboxing, featured on this post, is my girlfriend, a fitness model/actress and mother of two. I saw how hard she worked to look like that for the photo shoot. She ran, though boot camp classes and ate clean. (I’ll talk about eating clean later). Yes, she has good genes, but that is only 5% of the equation.
The truth is that most people are not naturally thin and shapely past 22. Even that hunk personal trainer at the gym watches what he eats and he works out like crazy. I spend a whole evening at a Christmas party once sitting next to a colleague of mine (yes quite the eye candy) while he sipped his Diet Coke and told me how he grills all his chicken on Sunday for the week ahead!
So it’s just like writing a book, you need to do the work. It is hard and none of the quick fix diets out there will help. Yes, you may lose a bit, mostly water, but then after days of eating nothing but eggs and bacon, you’ll start craving bread, stuff yourself with it and be back to the starting point.
The truth is that losing the extra weight and being healthy is very simple. Eat less and better, and start moving…that simple!
So how hard is it going to be?
Not as hard as you think.
Now that I scared everyone and half of you have stopped reading at this point to jump on the new Acai berry diet (whatever that is, but it keeps popping up on Facebook), let me give you the scoop.
Eating clean (that is eating real healthy food, with a moderate amount of healthy fat and grains) and some exercise will get you very very far.
You should aim to lose no more than 1-2 pounds a week. More than that and you are going at it too fast. You are shocking your body and very soon you’ll get right back where you were because you will crave what you are missing. Don’t cut all at once. Cut a little bit at a time, less butter, less alcohol, less fried food. Exercise twice a week at first.
Make intrinsic goals (like mine… I’ll stop eating bread and butter and eat more fresh fruit) as opposed to extrinsic goals (like…I want to look like Jennifer Aniston in 3 months!) Make goals by promising yourself things that you can actually do (I’ll walk for 30 min three times this week) as opposed to goals that you have no control over (I’ll lose 2 pounds this week).
Homework assignment until Tuesday.
So see not so hard. You can do this. I’m here to help. Ask me whatever you want, post your questions, anonymously if you want.
And I know that you are probably antsy to start. So here is what you first need to do before I talk about clean eating on Tuesday.
Homework 1:
Got to your kitchen and open all your cupboards and the fridge. Cookies, chips, junk food, chocolate? Anything in there left from the holidays? THROW IT OUT!!!! NOW!!!!!
I mean it, don’t save it for later…(okay keep a little chocolate in the freezer for when you get a rejection, but I’d rather burn it out in a Spin class.)
But you tell me, “what about my spouse, the kids!!! It’s their food, they need their treats”.
True, my kids are well known in the neighborhood for being deprived of cookies. I don’t keep cookies. They get it as a treat when we are out. Do your kids really need junk food? Your spouse? Wouldn’t everyone better off if your cupboards and fridge contained healthy snacks (whole wheat crackers and cereals, low fat cheeses, fresh fruit and vegetables, various kinds of nuts and dry fruit.)
If it is too hard to rally your family in your healthy endeavor, fine. It’s hard enough to do it yourself, you don’t need to reform them right away. But do try to enlist their support so that the junk food is kept on a high shelf, out of sight and in the back of the fridge. When they see you eating well, they might actually want of pieces of your juicy grapes or cut out pineapple. I know my family does.
Homework 2:
Take one day and write down all that you eat. Then look at eat…be honest…. Save that list for Tuesday, when I talk about eating clean.
Homework 3:
Make your dream list. What do you really want? (Me, it’s to lose 7 pounds and built up my muscles again. Be able to do 75 push-ups and run 30 minute, being able to breathe better – asthma has crept it since I stopped exercise)
Do you want to lose weight? Look stunning in a bikini for RT in Florida? Or fit in that beautiful gown for National? Do you want to be fit for life?
My role model is an 81 years-old woman who would come to my kickbox classes at the gym. She could do 50 real push-ups….at 81!!! I want to be her …and not at 81…now!!!!
Do you want to be just a little fitter than you are now? Just a few pounds less. Stop gaining weight and having trouble going up the stairs? Breathe better, with less aches and pains.
Make sure you really know what your fitness goal is because your plan will be very different depending on what your fitness dreams are.
Please write it down and share it here if you’d like. My series of post will give you the tools to reach that goal (provided it is realistic) and tell you how long it will take you to get there.
What are you waiting for?
You can do it. And you don’t have to spend hours every day. You don’t need to cut in your writing time. You just need to be a bit sensible and be better prepared.
I’m right here folks, doing it with you and encouraging you along.
Fit for life…..you deserve it!!!
More on Tuesday!!! Don’t forget to leave a comment or question for a chance of a one-on-one assesment of your fitness journey!
This is a great post. I’ll be checking back often for your tips and help as I work on losing the 25 pounds I’ve gained. UGH!
I really need to lose 30 pounds I gained since moving to Oregon 4 years ago. The holidays haven’t helped. The lifestyle change of leaving Colorado to Central Oregon really affected my fitness routine (had to leave the best fitness center EVER!), including my eating habits. I’ll definitely be following along!
I am really glad yo are doing this. Between LASR and my own writing, I’ve become quite the pudgy bunny. My DH and I have both made it a goal this year to get in better shape and lose some weight. We’re setting some walking time and watching more what we eat. I’ll definitely be checking back in.. I’m looking forward to finding out about Eating Clean!
Hi Vicky,
So glad you’re on board. At 1 pound a week, it should take you about 25 weeks or so. 6 months….just in time for National this summer
That’s why it’s important to start now for people who want to look fit for bathing suit season. It takes time.
Good luck!
Karen,
30 pounds…7-8 months….I know what it’s like to move and get thrown off balance. I have the same problem. I moved and never joined a gym because I wanted to focus on my writing.
But don’t despair. Start by cleaning those cupbboard and you’ll be on your way!
Welcome aboard
Hi Judy,
Glad to have you here and maybe I’ll be able to help.
Eating clean tips coming on Tuesday. As I said to Karen, start by cleaning up your kitchen and write down all you eat in a day!
BTW everyone,
If you belong to the GIAM loop and doing their fit challenge, let me know
I LOVE this! I am so in need of inspiration. There’s a gym TWO BLOCKS from my house, and I still haven’t gotten it together to join. Will definitely be checking back in…
Hi Veronica!
Welcome
A gym is not necessary, but 2 blocks from your house…now that’s convenient. Your mission to join before the month is over LOL Good luck!
I love that you’re doing this and will be checking in as often as I can.
I’m 5′10–so, tall, and because of my height, have been able to gain weight over the years without ’showing’ as much as maybe a shorter woman would…but now I know Ive put on too much. The writing, the sitting too much at the computer…I just want to be healthier!! Move more! I like your healthy approach though (I mean who wouldn’t want to be thin over night??) but I’ve learned–all good things come with hard work and patience(just like a publisher’s contract!). So, 1-2 pounds a week works for me! Baby steps…for life long changes–and good habits.
Thanks Marie–you’re great!
xxxEve
Hi Eve,
Yes at your height you can carry more weight without notice but it does creep up on you. I was not so worried by 2-3 pounds more but then the scale hit 120 and I panicked!!!
But the truth for me is that I miss being able to lift heavy things around the house and walk up hills without being short of breath…
Good luck with becoming healthier in 2009
Hi Marie, at 5′0″ I know what you mean about 5 lb. really showing. I was never more than 100 lb. until menopause hit. I’ve heard recently that menopause isn’t the reason women gain weight in their 50’s. What’s your opinion on this? Is it really possible to get back my 30-year-old body?
WOW! This is soooo what I need! My “day job” is stationary as well, so I’m sitting alot (although I do have shifts at the fornt counter and I’ve started standing instead of sitting there
).
I’ve ended up with about 50 extra “friends” over the last 10 years
. I feel bad, HATE buying clothes, and will avoid at all costs even looking in the mirror.
Thank you so so so much for doing this!
Marie
Oh, forgot to mention I am doing the GIAM weight loss challenge.
This is great, Marie! I find myself even more challenged because of back and neck problems. And I know I need to totally focus on the core muscles while making sure no twisting is involved.
And as 5′1″, yep, a few pounds really show up!
I’m coming back here for the motivation!
Linda
Hi Margery,
Menopose doesn’t necesserily means gaining weight. I’m not there yet, but many of my friends went true it. Most were fitness instructors and never gained an ounce. In fact, being fit helps with the symptoms (but they did get the hot flashes regardless lol).
The key is to keep your muscle mass. When you use your muscles and build them (either with dumbells but also Yoga and Pilates and tubing) your metabolism increase.
As we get older, our metabolism decreases so we need less food to survive, hence gain weight if we eat the same.
So you need to exercise to get that metabolism up again. Or eat a lot less. I’d rather exercise, since your body will look tone as well.
So I don’t know if you can get that 30 yo body again, but you surely can get quite close to it
But it does take work!
My 81 year old member went to the gym everyday and did both cardio and resistance training and her diet was super healthy.
Marie Welcome.
I’m glad I can help a little. When you have a little extra, not only is it hard to go buy close, it is also hard to get to a gym and have a skinny 20 year old telling you how to do it. The gyms are great and have a lot of professional who can help, but some can be quite intimidating. There are a lot of solution to make it work. Either at home or at a fitness facility. I’ll talk about that.
But the eating clean part of the equation is easy. You just need to be organized. Even slight changes in your eating can make a huge difference.
With 50 pds extra, it should take you about a year to shred it off. It’s a long term commitment. But learning new habits will stay with you for life.
Time to clean the cupboards!
Good luck
Linda,
I know what you mean. I haven’t really exercised for 6 months since I left my job at the gym. I use to do gazillions crunches in aerobics classes and never had a back problem. I also use to teach this great class called Core Conditionning.
But now for the first time in my life, by back is sore and my neck is stiff. I spend 3 days last week not being able to turn my head to one side.
It doesn’t take much, just a little bit of core exercises and streched once a week and you’ll have a healthy back and neck.
Thanks for dropping by and good luck!
Thank you Marie.
Weight has always been an issue for me. Over the past four years I’ve managed to lose 111 lbs. and managed to not gain during the holidays. But I’ve got about 100 lbs. to go (yes I was over 359 lbs when I started). It’s hard watching hubby and son eat the junk food that I used to eat. I’ve been slowly and more so lately buying more fruits and veggies to have in the house. Processed carbs, I’ve found, are my biggest enemy–not only with adding weight but with my blood sugar levels.
One of my goals is to take 10 -15 minutes of my lunch (30 minutes or less if kiddies come in for help–I teach) to walk the campus or the halls if the weather doesn’t let me outside.
Again,
Thanks!!
Annie
I’m so glad you are doing this!! I am doing the GIAM challenge, but can use all the help I can get. I’m 5′1″ and have always weighed around 100 pounds, but in the last few years, as I’ve written more, I’ve become more sedentary and 40 pounds have crept up on me. My MIL and I have begun walking when the weather permits, but I have to get a handle on my eating habits, too. I am so ready to break out my yoga tapes and free weights–it’s amazing how much I actually miss them–and figure out how to fit them into my daily routine. Anybody have a magic wand to help me fit everything into my day?
And wow!! I want to be just like your 81 year old client when I grow up!
I have tried so many different diets – nothing seems to work for me. I’m good for a week or two, then right back to my old eating. My family got me Wii Fit for my birthday (in October) and I love it, but a recent bout with bronchitis sidetracked that. I know I need to get back up and do this stuff. It’s the doing of that has me struggling. Fifteen pounds. Or even ten (I did lose five while I was sick). But I’m no youngster. And excuse, but I need to do this slowly. I am so glad you’re doing this. It’s an incredible thing to do.
Hi, Marie-Claude! Thanks for the great post! I’m all aboard the getting healthier train. I’ve been at it for a year and half of changing the way I eat/live. I’m down 30lbs, but really want to keep it going and knock it up a bit. I’ve gotten lazy. LOL. My small goals I set in the New Year (to start) are to eat more veggies/fruit. And to give up fried food except once a week if I really want it (not depriving completely, cause you binge later!)
This is so cool. A friend and I were talking about doing something similar on our group blog a few weeks ago. Health is so important. As mothers and wives we tend to push ourselves to the side. I swear men have it so much easier. lol
I started Eat-Clean almost a year ago, then I dropped in when I went to a writer’s retreat in March 08. By the time June came around I was again horribly ill. I started looking at why eating clean made a difference, that’s when I discovered I have Celiac disease. Although I’ve been gluten free since June, I haven’t been eating clean. Although I feel better than I have in my entire life and all of my previous diagnosed diseases have pretty much disappeared, and I lost about 30 pounds, gained 9 back over the holidays, I still have about 30 more I want to lose.
I’ve gone through body building training in the past. I should know what I’m supposed to be doing. With your posts, I hope it will push me to do so.
Thank you,
Renee
Hi, Marie-Claude! I’m with the GIAM group also. I’m 5′1″, but have always been ‘overweight’ even when I was at 121 lbs! I know I’ll never be a size 4, but I can get back into the single digits for clothes again. It’s frustrating to gain weight when I look back and realized that I used to TEACH aerobics (in my 20’s) and ride my horse daily, but age and life happens and so did 50 lbs. I got a Wii Fit for Christmas and am happy to report that I still have muscles underneath the ‘protective insulation’! I actually do like the feeling of sore muscles, though I know I have to take it easy with the exercise-induced asthma.
I’m looking forward to your insight and guidance.
Yikes! You’re only 5′2? I imagined you taller.
I’m one of those naturally skinny people, but that doesn’t mean naturally without cellulite. LOL So hubby and I joined a gym recently and I plan to work this saggy bootie out!
You’re so right about not being 22 anymore.
Thanks for the post! You sound very, very qualified and I can’t wait to see what Eat Clean is.
Though I have to warn you, there’s no way I’m getting rid of my chocolate!
Hi Marie-Claude! You are a genius! Every writer needs you, me included!
I look forward to your coming posts and getting in shape
I’ve done my homework and looked through the kitchen. We don’t have any junk in the house now, except some chocolate and low-fat ice cream –which I know is just a sugar/fat treat anyway… but like you said, can’t reform the family completely, at leasts its low fat 
I’m also starting an “I Lost it at the Club” program at my gym too, so with your help and the gym, I hope to fit into my gown for nationals
Eliza
Okay, I’m 5′8″ and have been fighting my weight for a long time.
I was working out, lifting weights for an hour and doing an hour of cardio 4 days a week and I actually gained 20 lbs. Then I had a bad year health-wise – asthma, bronchitis, sinus infections and spent 8 months on a really high dose of steroids. I gained another 35 lbs that are going nowhere fast even though I’ve cut down on the meds.
I don’t eat sweets, the only junk-food I keep in the house is 94% fat free Smart Pop popcorn. My one downfall is starbucks sugar-free soy lattes and pasta. I’d love to lose the 55 lbs I’ve gained over the last few years.
A few weeks ago, I needed to lose. I’m afraid to weigh myself now. lol
I know the routine for me, but it’s good to have a community to do this with. Eat less, move more. I eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. It’s just that I throw too many sweets into the mix. I need to throw them out.
I so need this, Marie Claude. lol. I gained seven pounds lately and my abdomen needs tightening. Ugh! I’d also like to have more energy and I’m sure excercise would do that.
Thanks for this, Marie-Claude!
I’ve done really well – I’ve lost nearly three stone (what’s that – 40 pounds or so?) over the last 2.5 years, and got myself below BMI 30.
I’m determined never to go that high again. But I also want to continue to lose, mostly for health reasons.
I’m so glad to hear you say it’s not easy! I get so frustrated with people who assume because I struggle to lose weight I must be stuffing my face, because losing weight is easy…. I had to work darned hard to lose that weight, and cut out a lot of foods that I really love.
I think the best thing I did was join a morris dancing side (traditional English folk dancing). Best exercise I’ve ever done, and so easy to stick with because it’s fun and it’s a challenge – taking brain power.
Anyway. I want to continue the downward trend at a slow and steady pace (some of that loss has been very much three steps forward, two steps back), so I’ll be reading your blogs with interest!
I was twenty-two?
Seems like a long time ago.
Well, I need to lose half of me. So, this will be a long process for me.
But one I’m willing to choose. (I wrote attempt, but changed to choose, attempt sounds like I might give up. Choose is a life-choice.)
Hi Marie – Have to stop by and say WONDERFUL blog! I am such an evangalist about this subject because I believe (I KNOW) that what we eat and how we exercise impacts our writing. I made this resolution last year, when I was really struggling with 10 pounds I didn’t want, sleeping poorly, and having a horrific time with the book I had due. I decided that I had a choice every single time I opened my mouth, and every day when I opted NOT to exercise. I decided that for one year, I wouldn’t make a “choice” (you know, rationalize that bag of potato chips or tell myself I don’t have time to workout). I took *choice* out of it and decided to ONLY to it the healthy way for one year, just to see what would happen.
Well, here’s what happened. I finished the book that had been killing me and my editor pronounced it my very best, ever. I started to sleep through the night. I had more energy than I ever thought possible. My mood improved, my patience increased, my memory got sharper, and, yes, I lost weight – about 18 pounds. The weight loss, while lovely – especially at Nationals!! — was a side benefit. The pure, healthy eating and exercise has changed every aspect of my life, and I really believe I’m a better writer for it.
I warn you, lots of people’s eyes glaze over on this subject. They don’t want to do the work, they don’t want to sacrifice the time to exercise or the fun of eating. But I am here to tell you, it’s worth it!
The holidays were tough, but I am right with you on this blog. Well done!
Great post! I can’t wait to read the next one. I started a work out routine last spring when I quit smoking…. bad time to start a diet. It’s hard enough to concentrate on the not smoking, let alone your eating. Anyway, I gained A LOT! And then fell into a bit of a depression over my weight and stopped working out because I was working out like a mad woman and still gaining. But I was eating to compensate for the missing cigarettes.
So, now I’ve reached a point where I don’t want this weight, can’t live with this weight and have started my program again. But a bit modified. I’m not going crazy, I am doing the Biggest Loser cardio DVD — Maxium Results program. 30 minutes a day for the first 2-3 weeks and then it increases. All cardio, but also works on building muscle to burn the fat.
Anyway, I can’t wait to hear more, Marie-Claude! Especially about clean eating. I haven’t the first clue about it. I’ve always easten what I wanted, but as I near 30 I can no longer do that.
See you soon! Please send reminders out, I don’t want to miss the next post.
I should correct myself… the Biggest Loser DVD is 30 minutes a day 4-5 times a week. NOT everyday.
This past year I gained 30 pounds. At 5′2″ I can not afford those extra pounds. I’m taking Prozac for my menopause and boy, does it increase your appetite. I never cleaned my plate before, now I’m taking seconds. I’m doing the diet challenge with GIAM too.
Hi there!
In my dreams I’d like to lose 40 lbs but realistically I’d be happy with 20. Every time I lose a little weight I don’t ache so much and have extra energy, even sitting in front of a computer 14 hours a day. My biological clock will click to a BIG number this year, groan.
Losing weight is easy, LOL, I do it all the time! And then watch it creep back when I’m stressed, depressed, traveling, or all of the above. It always helps when you’re sharing your goals with others.
My daughter began to drive a couple of weeks ago – I’m going to use my former “chauffeur” time to hit the Y. About all I’m good for is 45 minutes on the elliptical whatever but better than nothing! Take care and good luck everyone!
Wow, Marie-Claude. I just did a blog today and put an exercise meter up on my site. For 45 years I was a bulimic, but quit when it nearly killed me.
Finally, last year at -um -over 49, I successfully lost 20 lbs and only regained about five through the holidays. For a while I was treadmilling faithfully but got off track. I deliver mail a few times a month so I would like to get stronger and more flexible so the days off didn’t hurt me so badly on the job. I would also like to tone the flabby arms. I can’t walk outside for exercise because my feet fall asleep but I used to jog. I can do both on the treadmill but don’t get that fresh air that is so stimulating.
I’m not a junk food eater, just 5′2 and extremely small bones. Also, being a binger means that my biggest struggle is to eat smaller and more frequent meals which was how I lost the 20 lbs. But I’m gradually starting to eat much too much again. My husband has a metabolism that many would love to have – he has to have fat, sugar, starches, all the things that I can’t have; his body just metabolizes it. Luckily he will fend for himself with the sweets etc. I’ll just have to stay away from them and make my own meals.
Thanks for doing this and I need to check out the GIAM challenge.
Marie-Caude, this is great timing on this blog! A writing friend and I were talking about not only setting some writing goals, but also some health ones. Spending long periods of time sitting at a computer, it’s easy to find the day has gone by without getting any exercise. Not to mention the frequent trips to the kitchen. I find that when I don’t exercise, I tend to get sleepy too, and I’m not as productive with my wordcount.
I was one of those people who was always thin until I got pregnant. Then I put on the pounds. But I was always active when I was younger so those pounds eventually came off through exercise. Now that I’m on the shady side of forty, I don’t get enough exercise and I love my carbs, especially chocolate and chips. I love to snack.
I’m not as concerned with weight as I am about being well-toned and healthy. But if I have to put my goal in pounds, I’d say I need to take off about 30. I’d love to get back into a size 8 or 10, instead of a 12 or 14. So, about 2 sizes – in time for Nationals.
Thanks for starting this blog! I like the moderate approach that you advocate here.
Great post, M-C.
Looks like you’ve got yourself a “gym” class to instruct – without the spandex, of course! LOL!
Here’s to looking fine by Nationals.
Jenn!
Awesome post! I don’t make resolutions anymore, and when I make goals, I don’t include weight loss in there. However, I did join a gym a little over a month ago, and I’ve been working with a personal trainer twice a week on top of once a week bellydance classes. I’ve seen some great results so far, but I want more more more. I’ll definitely come back and see what else you have to say.
Also, I think words are incredibly powerful, and when I hear that someone’s lost something, I assume they want to find it again. I lose my keys, I’m going to look for them. Same with weight loss. You lose weight, you intend to find it again. I’ve been using terms like “banish” and “dump” and “get rid of,” but I absolutely love the term you use – shred. It’s so going into my new health vocab.
I’ve shredded 15 pounds in the last few months, and I’m going to shred another 30 just because of my lifestyle change. My focus on mostly-vegan food and more physical activity has made all the difference, and I love the person I’m becoming.
Marie-Claude thank you!
There is a great deal of new research being done now that obesity has become a national health crisis. It is worth looking into for those of you who haven’t.
This has been a life long struggle for me. Last year I had great success keeping a food journal, cutting portions and exercising, eating every two hours to keep from hunger, with a loss of 55 pounds.
The weight loss was nice, but the wonder of it was the benefit that came with lower portions, and healthy foods.
I slept better, had more energy, urinary incontinence decreased, sleep apnea went away, I cared about my appearance, started wearing makeup, mood lifted, walked with bounce in my step! It was marvelous. To say nothing of the seat belt on the plane being loose and being able to tolerate a long flight. And all this at 250 pounds. I started at 305. So while weight is extremely important, the energy and mood is affected almost immediately with healthy foods and exercise.
I let myself fall victim once again to what I call “the creep”. That is a gradual justification of “this will be okay” until portion control lagged, consumption of addictive foods crept up, and by the holiday season I was totally out of control, thinking that there was always “tomorrow”.
Making exercise a priority is difficult. I don’t much like it.
I look forward to being privy to your expertise, Marie-claude. Congratulations to all ahead of time, ’cause we will do this!
Again, thank you Marie-Claude.
Wow Annie,
Your story is quite inspirational, losing over 100 pounds. I wish you the best continuing in your journey. The goal of walking like you say is just perfect. I’m sure it will make quite the difference
Hi Trish,
Sounds like you have all the tools you need. The yoga tapes and hand weight are great. Just dust them out and get started. I’ll try to address the problem of trying to stay motivated and find the time to exercise, at home especially
Welcome aboard!
Glad to get aboard — so far I’m on the GIAM challenge thing and Weight Watchers — get the idea I’m grabbing at anything available? Like others I’m older, and the weight that used to just drop off when I got serious has decided it likes it around my middle and keeps hanging around. I did water aerobics fall quarter, but over Christmas I came out of a couple of pressured months and went in for serious recreational eating. I am giving my scale the fishy eye; the fit of my clothes tells me all I’m interested in knowing. Tomorrow I start water aerobics again; I might add mall walking as well. (I live in Michigan, so the outdoor stuff doesn’t work for the time being.) I’m aiming for 20 lbs. or so by the end of March, hoping that’s reasonably realistic. I’m tall, so most people don’t realize how thick my middle has become. Don’t know if 20 lbs will get me where I want to be for sure, but it sounds about right.
Hi Marie!
Boy do I need this! Sometimes I feel like my body is just dying at the computer for so many hours. The times in my life when I have stuck with healthy eating and regular exercise were times I felt at my best! The feeling is indescribable. And I want it again! I’m looking forward to your inspiration. I need this!
Thanks!
hey i know that lady in the picture. i went to highschool with her. congrats rach!!! lets get in shape people. first step. no more soda. hahaha….yay!!!!
I think Roxanne’s point is very well taken. At RWA National last summer, I was able to attend Jayne Anne Krentz’s and Susan Elizabeth Phillips’ seminar on the best-selling sisterhood. One point they made was that they are both disciplined people: both in their writing habits and in their eating & exercise habits. (And if you’ve ever seen them, it shows!) For them the two aspects go hand in hand. So there’s some motivation for us, eh? You want a best-seller? Get disciplined with eating and exercise habits, too!
Hi Vicky B.
Motivation to keep going is the hardest. I saw it all the time at the gym. For 20 new people joining, there would be 1 or 2 left after 1 month. Hopefully, I’ll touch on that in the last week.
And becoming sick doesn’t help. It is even harder to go back. But organization is the best ways. Clean your kitchen from temptations. Fit exercise when it is most convenient (I’ll talk about that later).
Thanks for joining in!
Hi Shelli!
You look great BTW
Good for you for losing those 30 lbs. You know what you are doing. I keep seing these status update on FB when you mention going to the gym.
And you pointed to something important. Have a treat now and again. Fitness pro call those “cheating days” or “cheating meals”. I’ll talk about that more, but once a week, it’s okay to let go. It has to be planned, a nice restaurant meal, a pastry with your sunday coffee. Chips with your lunch. All planned and once a week! So you don’t go crazy and can enjoy yourself at a nice dinner or a party!
Well Renee Lynn,
You probably know what you are doing. With the BB training past and knowing about eating clean.
Sorry to hear about the desease. Eating better is super important.
You are half way there. Motivation is hard (tell me about it) and friends are the best. Get together with friends and support each others (kind of like writing).
Glad you dropped by
Hi Margaret and waving to a fellow aerobics instructor!
Yes life happen and that is why we need to adjust our fitness routine. In my late 20s, I would go to the gym twice a day, cardio in the morning, weight at night.
Then I had babies and had to do videos at home. Then they were old enough that I could take them to the gym daycare and I could teach classes, ect. But I only worked once a day, week-days.
You have to accept your life changes and do what you can with the time and circonstances that you have.
Another 81 yo client of mine, was a faithful morning exerciser until her husband started requiring more care and she had to steal time here and there.
We all have to be creative. And with writing deadlines and travel, it is even harder.
Hi Jessie!!!
Sometimes even 5′3” LOL.
I’m officially 5′2”and a half
Why am I not surprised that you can eat what you want?
But glad to hear you join a gym. Exercise is not only for your weight but for your energy level and balanced hormones. It does make you feel happier, more leveled, able to handle stress better and raises your imune system. And of course, with a healthy diet you have a better chance at fending off serious illness.
Hi Eliza,
So glad you joined.
Yes, the fit club at your local gym is a great way to sray motivated. I’d planned to mention that in talking about motivation. A lot of local YMCA and community centers will have those, with some consultation with professional and some way to keep track. At a YMCA where I worked, the trainers would even call you, if you missed coming for too long.
These are great tools and not that expensive.
I’m sure you’ll succeed Eliza
Hey M-C,
Do you really think only 7 – 8 months to lose 30 pounds???
10 – 15 was my goal for the year. I want to get back into exercising. I had gotten up to walking 4 miles a day, alternating with my own version of yoga stretches, dancing, and lifting little 2-pound weights. That was in September.
Then I got sick and pretty much stayed that way until I finally went to the doctor at the end of December when I was “banned” by family from celebrating Christmas with them so as not to get the little ones sick! I just took my last anti-biotic and have walked a mile the past 2 days to get back into it.
Reading your blog will be encouraging for me. However, I canNOT toss the fudge my mom made for me this past weekend when we celebrated Christmas and N.Y. But I won’t gorge on it either.
My goal is to firm up, besides losing weight and getting rid of this “writer’s spread.”
Julie
Hi Robin
You seem to be doing everything right….The key is consistancy doing all this all the time…..
it might be worthwhile writing down everything (and I mean everything) you eat for a week. Then you can really analyse it and see where things may not be perfect.
I had a client who did all right, but found that she ate a lot of nuts, very healthy, but too much might sabotage your effort because nuts are very high in fat and calorie.
Good luck
Hey Edie,
Thanks for dropping by. Yes, throw the sweets out. But with the American Title stress, it’s hard to also think about losing weight, isn’t it?
Lisa,
Yes a little exercise and your energy will be right back. And those 7 pounds will be history!
Marie,
I remember the abs classes I took from one of the trainers at the gym I belonged to. She was a killer instructor and I’m sure she’d be only too happy to torture me again. :} I also took spin.
For me all it took was a pinched sciatic nerve 5 years ago that for some reason messed up my back.
Still, I have the tools. Pilates and yoga DVDs, lightweight hand weights and therabands.
Group motivation always seems to help and when friends who worked out with me left the area, I didn’t have as much fun. Although, sheesh, it was pretty much my only social time!
So I intend to have your posts inspire me to get my rear in gear.
Linda
Hi, Marie-Claue,
I really like your approach to creating a positive lifestyle change that will endure. I can tell you’re a pro. Love your comments about shocking the body. Gradual transitions are so perfect for staying motivated as well as injury free.
Less beer is going to be tough for the Super Bowl, Mardi Gras, and the Irish Parade. Great program but I have to say, squeezing into a bikini for RT or a beautiful gown for National is a deal-breaker for me.
John Roundtree
Wow! Great blog! I am so ready to burn those pounds
Hi M-C! I’d like to lose 10-15 lbs. this year. I think my main problem is diet, most likely portion size. I look forward to your posts. Thank you for giving advice!
Tami
I can’t wait, well, maybe I can, to get started. I’m overweight and need to be motivated to lose some weight (about 30 pounds would be nice, more if possible) and get into shape. Thanks for doing this blog. I’m looking forward to seeing what everyone can do together.
Anna Kathryn
[...] Get Started [...]
We wen to conscious of The Hangover this weekend! Had to accept tickets for 12 am steer! since the film theater was chock-a-block! THis was from the producers of the OLDSCHOLL and they did it again LOVED IT!