I weigh 176 today -- exactly 4 pounds less than the same day one year ago.
My goal is to start 2012 (Jan. 2) at under 180 for the first time since 2002.
My secondary goal is start at 175.
Last year, my Jan. 2 weight was 181.
Just 1 pound up from my December 29th weight.
So, if I can maintain that trend, I'll start 2012 at 177. 3 pounds under 180, 4 pounds less than last year.
And then, I'll start my serious training for a mini-marathon... which should mean serious weight loss over time (I lost 9 pounds last year during training and kept most of it off ... in fact, I still haven't hit 180 again).
If I start at 177, I could see another 9 pound drop... bringing me below 170.
My goal, though, is simply 172. I want to get there and see how it feels... when I weigh 172-174, I feel amazing... and I feel like my clothes fit well. If I lost much more, I'd have to change sizes, I think. Not necessarily bad, though.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
How Can You Shave 200 Calories a Day from your Diet?
by using VEGETABLES!
Yep, whip 'em up in your blender and swap them out for other high-calorie ingredients (milk, butter) -- I've had some amazing (and delicious) black bean brownies...
If you have one meal a day with EXTRA vegetables that are hidden, you'll consume less calories and get MORE nutrients. So, you'll lose weight and feel better, too.
Plus, because you can't see (or taste, even) the vegetables, it won't feel like a chore...
Yep, whip 'em up in your blender and swap them out for other high-calorie ingredients (milk, butter) -- I've had some amazing (and delicious) black bean brownies...
If you have one meal a day with EXTRA vegetables that are hidden, you'll consume less calories and get MORE nutrients. So, you'll lose weight and feel better, too.
Plus, because you can't see (or taste, even) the vegetables, it won't feel like a chore...
Holiday Weight Gain?
So, I'm 177 today. Two pounds away from my Jan 2, 2012 goal of 175.
This is not bad considering Christmas Eve and Christmas Day eating and a day off of work yesterday that held consumption of leftovers and sweets.
Today, it was back to yogurt for breakfast.
This is not bad considering Christmas Eve and Christmas Day eating and a day off of work yesterday that held consumption of leftovers and sweets.
Today, it was back to yogurt for breakfast.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Today...
176.
Even after a Holiday dinner and dessert last night.
I ate in moderation throughout the day... in an effort to ensure I wouldn't be high on calories before the meal started...
no exercise, though. I need to hit the weights tonight.
Even after a Holiday dinner and dessert last night.
I ate in moderation throughout the day... in an effort to ensure I wouldn't be high on calories before the meal started...
no exercise, though. I need to hit the weights tonight.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
What Impact do Holiday Dinners have on your weight?
Well, for me, it's simple: weight gain!
177 today.
Of course, I had a Holiday Lunch and Holiday Dinner yesterday...
Today, I'm taking it easy -- lighter breakfast, nuts and a protein bar for lunch, and ... another Holiday Dinner.
I'm still hopeful I can stay below 180 -- I haven't weighed 180 in almost a full year now. So, I'll be trying moderation... and a bit of exercise even though its Holiday break time.
177 today.
Of course, I had a Holiday Lunch and Holiday Dinner yesterday...
Today, I'm taking it easy -- lighter breakfast, nuts and a protein bar for lunch, and ... another Holiday Dinner.
I'm still hopeful I can stay below 180 -- I haven't weighed 180 in almost a full year now. So, I'll be trying moderation... and a bit of exercise even though its Holiday break time.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
What do I weigh today?
I know you're dying to know!
175.5
Exactly four pounds less than one year ago today.
Christmas is soon approaching...eating will abound. But, if I'm starting 4 pounds lighter, I should be able to maintain a healthy weight and stay below 177.
Remember, my goal for January 2nd is to weigh 175 or less with a 2012 goal weight of 172.
175.5
Exactly four pounds less than one year ago today.
Christmas is soon approaching...eating will abound. But, if I'm starting 4 pounds lighter, I should be able to maintain a healthy weight and stay below 177.
Remember, my goal for January 2nd is to weigh 175 or less with a 2012 goal weight of 172.
Monday, December 19, 2011
And so...
I have no idea my weight today. I'd guess 176.
I had a weekend of gratuitous eating. A lunch and then Holiday dinner on Saturday, another family lunch on Sunday... and although I had a light dinner Sunday evening, I also had a piece of pecan pie...and failed to lift weights or run.
If i were guessing, I'd say 176 or 177.
I'm weighing-in tomorrow after a Monday of sanity...
I had a weekend of gratuitous eating. A lunch and then Holiday dinner on Saturday, another family lunch on Sunday... and although I had a light dinner Sunday evening, I also had a piece of pecan pie...and failed to lift weights or run.
If i were guessing, I'd say 176 or 177.
I'm weighing-in tomorrow after a Monday of sanity...
Friday, December 16, 2011
This morning
After a holiday dinner and despite a light lunch (protein bar, diet coke) - I'm back at 175.
Ugh.
And, here's the upcoming schedule:
Holiday lunch with family tomorrow, Holiday lunch with more family on Sunday, Holiday lunch at work on Tuesday, Holiday dinner with friends Tuesday, Holiday dinner with family on Wednesday...
OMG.
Ugh.
And, here's the upcoming schedule:
Holiday lunch with family tomorrow, Holiday lunch with more family on Sunday, Holiday lunch at work on Tuesday, Holiday dinner with friends Tuesday, Holiday dinner with family on Wednesday...
OMG.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
After three days in a row ...
... of 175, I hit 174 this morning.
I'm excited because we had a Holiday lunch at the office yesterday, but I maintained my balance and ate a light dinner and then ran for a mile and a half.
If I could get down to 173 before December 24th, I know I'll be in good shape for that January 2nd goal of weighing 175 or less.
I'm excited because we had a Holiday lunch at the office yesterday, but I maintained my balance and ate a light dinner and then ran for a mile and a half.
If I could get down to 173 before December 24th, I know I'll be in good shape for that January 2nd goal of weighing 175 or less.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
3 Days in a Row...
at 175
I weigh exactly 4 pounds less today than I did one year ago. I think that means I'm on track to weigh LESS than 181 by January 2nd.
However, I'd really like to hit 174 or lower soon...at least before the "Christmas Week" eating season that actually starts next week with 2 dinners out during the week and then Christmas Eve and Christmas Day food-centered celebrations.
Still, I'm maintaining much lower weight than at the same time last year -- and, unlike in years past, I'm not nearing 180 as Christmas approaches.
I weigh exactly 4 pounds less today than I did one year ago. I think that means I'm on track to weigh LESS than 181 by January 2nd.
However, I'd really like to hit 174 or lower soon...at least before the "Christmas Week" eating season that actually starts next week with 2 dinners out during the week and then Christmas Eve and Christmas Day food-centered celebrations.
Still, I'm maintaining much lower weight than at the same time last year -- and, unlike in years past, I'm not nearing 180 as Christmas approaches.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
How to Fight Holiday Weight Gain
So, the time from Thanksgiving through New Year's is a time for parties, sweets, eating, and YES, gaining pounds.
For about 5 years, I started every January 2nd at 185 pounds. Then, for 3 years after that, I started at 181 pounds. On January 2nd, 2011 I weighed 181 pounds.
By April 30th, I was down to 172. I've since maintained a weight between 173-175.
My goal is to start this January 2nd at 175. This would be the lowest I've weighed on January 2nd since 2002. I can't believe it has been 10 years since I've weighed only 175 at the start of a year.
So, here's my strategy:
1) Keep running. I'm a runner -- I've run some 5ks and a couple of half marathons. I'll run another half marathon in 2012. But, as December sets in and the weather turns cold, there are less days when it feels good to run. That said, I still plan to run at least 3 days a week for at least three miles. I know that burning those calories by running will help me keep off extra weight I may otherwise pick up through Holiday eating.
2) Also, walk. I have a habit of walking to a downtown library and back everyday when I'm working. It's a nice break to get me out of the office and it is a 2 mile round trip. If you're not already walking, find at least 15 minutes to get out and walk -- or, walk inside at your office. Just 15 minutes a day 5 days a week can help you burn off extra calories and give you more energy.
3) Add weight-lifting. Since I won't be getting outside as much to run, I'm doing some light circuit training to keep the pounds off. I do 2 sets of some very simple weight-lifting and the whole thing takes about 20 minutes. On a night when I'm going to run, I do just one set. If you're not lifting, just start with a reasonable weight and do four to five different exercises to work out different muscles. Weight lifting helps boost your metabolism for a couple hours after you've finished as your muscles work to repair themselves -- this will help you burn calories and has the added benefit of adding some nice tone to your body. Try 2-3 days a week with a day of rest in between.
4) Take some b12 -- not only will b12 help boost your immunity which is nice because it's colder and because you're likely to be around more people (and more germs) -- but, it boosts metabolism and energy. It should help you burn a few extra calories (like at least some of the calories in a small glass of egg nog).
5) Always move. On the elevator, at your desk, anywhere -- do small stretches or shake your hands or walk in place. Take the time to make yourself move. It may not burn much, but it will keep your metabolism up and it can give you some added energy.
These 5 tips are my strategy for making it to 175 or less by January 2, 2012.
You can try these, too and see if they help you fight the Holiday weight gain.
For about 5 years, I started every January 2nd at 185 pounds. Then, for 3 years after that, I started at 181 pounds. On January 2nd, 2011 I weighed 181 pounds.
By April 30th, I was down to 172. I've since maintained a weight between 173-175.
My goal is to start this January 2nd at 175. This would be the lowest I've weighed on January 2nd since 2002. I can't believe it has been 10 years since I've weighed only 175 at the start of a year.
So, here's my strategy:
1) Keep running. I'm a runner -- I've run some 5ks and a couple of half marathons. I'll run another half marathon in 2012. But, as December sets in and the weather turns cold, there are less days when it feels good to run. That said, I still plan to run at least 3 days a week for at least three miles. I know that burning those calories by running will help me keep off extra weight I may otherwise pick up through Holiday eating.
2) Also, walk. I have a habit of walking to a downtown library and back everyday when I'm working. It's a nice break to get me out of the office and it is a 2 mile round trip. If you're not already walking, find at least 15 minutes to get out and walk -- or, walk inside at your office. Just 15 minutes a day 5 days a week can help you burn off extra calories and give you more energy.
3) Add weight-lifting. Since I won't be getting outside as much to run, I'm doing some light circuit training to keep the pounds off. I do 2 sets of some very simple weight-lifting and the whole thing takes about 20 minutes. On a night when I'm going to run, I do just one set. If you're not lifting, just start with a reasonable weight and do four to five different exercises to work out different muscles. Weight lifting helps boost your metabolism for a couple hours after you've finished as your muscles work to repair themselves -- this will help you burn calories and has the added benefit of adding some nice tone to your body. Try 2-3 days a week with a day of rest in between.
4) Take some b12 -- not only will b12 help boost your immunity which is nice because it's colder and because you're likely to be around more people (and more germs) -- but, it boosts metabolism and energy. It should help you burn a few extra calories (like at least some of the calories in a small glass of egg nog).
5) Always move. On the elevator, at your desk, anywhere -- do small stretches or shake your hands or walk in place. Take the time to make yourself move. It may not burn much, but it will keep your metabolism up and it can give you some added energy.
These 5 tips are my strategy for making it to 175 or less by January 2, 2012.
You can try these, too and see if they help you fight the Holiday weight gain.
Today's Weight
Is 175 - same as yesterday.
Yes, this is my daily weight journal -- but, I'm also offering more now. Information on what I do and experiments in weight loss, weight maintenance, etc.
Yes, this is my daily weight journal -- but, I'm also offering more now. Information on what I do and experiments in weight loss, weight maintenance, etc.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Can Your Thyroid Make you Fat?
YES!
Nearly 9% of the population has thyroid problems...and these problems can wreak havoc on your system and yes, make you fat!
You could have hyperthryroidism...in which case, you'd have diarrhea and be very small b/c your body is working in overdrive. There's also a heart attack risk associated.
But, you could have hypothyroidism...which slows down your body's processes...and could make it difficult for you to lose weight.
How do you know?
Well, you need to have a cluster of symptoms to be worried... just weight gain alone is not enough.
But, unexpected weight gain, dry skin, dry hair, muscle cramps, constipation and other symptoms combined COULD be a sign of hypothyroidism (the kind that makes you fat).
So, be alert...pay attention to your body. Know your norms. And, when things get out of whack, see a doctor.
Nearly 9% of the population has thyroid problems...and these problems can wreak havoc on your system and yes, make you fat!
You could have hyperthryroidism...in which case, you'd have diarrhea and be very small b/c your body is working in overdrive. There's also a heart attack risk associated.
But, you could have hypothyroidism...which slows down your body's processes...and could make it difficult for you to lose weight.
How do you know?
Well, you need to have a cluster of symptoms to be worried... just weight gain alone is not enough.
But, unexpected weight gain, dry skin, dry hair, muscle cramps, constipation and other symptoms combined COULD be a sign of hypothyroidism (the kind that makes you fat).
So, be alert...pay attention to your body. Know your norms. And, when things get out of whack, see a doctor.
So...
I'm now at 175 -- basically, the same as I was on Friday.
Tune in soon for more weight loss tips, advice, etc. I want to offer more than just a daily weight check-in diary.
Tune in soon for more weight loss tips, advice, etc. I want to offer more than just a daily weight check-in diary.
Friday, December 9, 2011
UGH!
178
How the f did this happen?
I know...egg nog, cookies, a trip.
but... this is NOT cool.
I'm going to take some b12 and see if that helps!
How the f did this happen?
I know...egg nog, cookies, a trip.
but... this is NOT cool.
I'm going to take some b12 and see if that helps!
Thursday, December 8, 2011
And again...
after traveling, some weight gain.
My eating habits are soooo terrible on trips.
When I left, I weighed 173.5 -- of course, that was in part because of a bout of stomach trouble that made eating unpleasant.
By Tuesday night, alone in a hotel with time on my hands and no real food consumed save 6 Chicken McNuggets, I ordered a small pizza and cinnamon sticks at close to midnight.
I'll be damned if they didn't make a large pizza instead... I ate 4 pieces plus about half of the cinnamon sticks.
I felt MUCH better... and, no stomach problems.
Then, a movie and popcorn the next day... and a regular, light dinner
and 176 this morning.
No surprise, really. A 2.5 pound swing over a few days... but, disappointing. I have to get a handle on my travel eating habits.
What can I do to prevent the ravenous hunger and/or boredom eating?
My eating habits are soooo terrible on trips.
When I left, I weighed 173.5 -- of course, that was in part because of a bout of stomach trouble that made eating unpleasant.
By Tuesday night, alone in a hotel with time on my hands and no real food consumed save 6 Chicken McNuggets, I ordered a small pizza and cinnamon sticks at close to midnight.
I'll be damned if they didn't make a large pizza instead... I ate 4 pieces plus about half of the cinnamon sticks.
I felt MUCH better... and, no stomach problems.
Then, a movie and popcorn the next day... and a regular, light dinner
and 176 this morning.
No surprise, really. A 2.5 pound swing over a few days... but, disappointing. I have to get a handle on my travel eating habits.
What can I do to prevent the ravenous hunger and/or boredom eating?
Monday, December 5, 2011
Thursday, December 1, 2011
So Today...
I'm at 175.
Exactly 3 pounds smaller than I was on this day last year. I'm excited to be holding at this level b/c it should mean I stay at or below 176 by January 1, 2012.
I have to keep running, lifting weights, and being careful about my food intake.
Exactly 3 pounds smaller than I was on this day last year. I'm excited to be holding at this level b/c it should mean I stay at or below 176 by January 1, 2012.
I have to keep running, lifting weights, and being careful about my food intake.
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