SparkPeople Staying Motivated Messageboard

Need motivation here!!

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 21:20:24 EST

I've not really posted here a whole lot. I've posted a few times.... I'm having issues with lack of motivation.... I'm staying very depressed lately... I used to LOVE walking, love love loved it.... then, last year I was in a near-fatal car accident that messed up my right leg & right foot, so now its difficult for me to get out and walk as I used to, which is very frustrating!! I try to watch my foods, in-takes, etc....but it seems as if my weight just keeps climbing.... I feel so helpless!!...

Just cant seem to get myself motivated

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 16:01:11 EST

Not sure why, but I just cant talk myself into getting up and being active. I'm doing alright at the eating right and I'm even cutting back on my pop addiction. But how do you motivate yourself to get up and go work out, or even go take a walk?

motivation/ ideas needed

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 15:45:41 EST

I've gained over a pount a month for the past four years, and now I am very much in a bad place.
I've tried myfitnesspal (not user friendly, better food bank), Apex Body Bugg (causes rash and annoyance on arm) and Sparkpeople (good community, decent food bank, too many ads). I'm going to stick with just Sparkpeople after trying the others.

Help needed with- choosing to move (gym, hiking, kayaking) instead of sitting at home.
Help with- I am not yet willing to give up...

Trying to get back on track

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 14:52:26 EST

I started my weight loss journey in February 2012, and have since lost 50lbs. Because I am still overweight after such a weight loss, I’m trying for 17 more pounds to get down to my goal healthy weight and it has been such a struggle! My diet, coupled with exercise just doesn’t seem to be doing anything for me and it causes me to really slip back into old, bad habits. One set back and I’m suddenly chowing down on a box of cookies, throwing everything I’ve learned out the window.

Af...

Weight Gain

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 10:36:09 EST

Okay so I am following sparks people diet stages. First they told me not to worry about my calorie range Yet. So I have been eating regularly and just logging the foods I have been eating. Well I just weighed my self and in a matter of one week I have gained 6lbs. This is seriously stressful for me! I don't understand how this could be because before when I ate like this before I always ranged between 143 and 145... Now for the first time in almost a year I hit 150!!

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Entering the unknown...

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 01:08:25 EST

I am not sure if this is the right place to post this, but it does have to do with staying motivated and moving on with weight loss even if its scary.

I am not sure if anyone else has had this problem but I will give some back ground and then my issue.

I was always a big child, by 10 I was well over 120lbs, and when I was 14 I was over 250 and at 18 I was around 300lbs...it went up to 456lbs.

One day when I was around 24 years old I had enough started loosing...

Recommit

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 15:01:47 EST

I'm trying to recommit myself to eating healthy, clean, and working out. I'm following Dr. Ian Smith's Shred Diet. First day today and doing well so far. I even have my 13 year old doing it today.

NO weightloss the SECOND week

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 14:28:55 EST

I started at 194,4. I was so happy that I went down to 190.4 after the first week. I did exactly the same thing the second week, but weighed in at precisely 190.4 again. Does anyone have the same experience, or does anyone know what causes this?

Feeling VERY frustrated

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 13:37:14 EST

Ok, this is going to be a long one: I have a 7 month old baby and I am trying to lose the last 15 pounds of baby weight. (No, I do not want to use the sparkbaby website, the tracker is completely separate) After my previous baby, I went on SP and lost over 25 pounds-not including the baby weight, not easily, but it steadily came off. I have been carefully tracking for over 3 weeks, and I have NOT LOST ONE POUND. I am just hovering at 149-150-151. I am SO frustrated! I have tried adding calor...

I need idea's on how to stay motivated

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 13:08:52 EST

I keep losing my motivation to stay active and workout. I know that I need to lose the weight and I know I need to workout and eat healthy to do so but I just cant seem to stay motivated to get up and keep moving. Does anyone have any idea's for me to do so I can stay focused and motivated?

I want to look good when I get married in November 2013 336

Weekend Overeating

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 12:07:23 EST

I seem to have this huge problem with weekend overeating. I do really well all week long Monday-Friday because I have a routine. On the weekends, even though I still workout and keep myself busy with activities, I still tend to overeat! Part of it I think is the fact that I have been so good all week... and the sad thing is it ruins all the progress I've made and puts me back at square one. This is extremely frustrating!

For others who have experience a similar problem: what strat...

Ive forgotten how - help?!

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 11:36:09 EST

Not a year ago I was at my ideal weight, never got sick and stayed very active.
At the time I was 100% vegan and ate as cleanly as possible- and I loved it. I loved the food, I loved everything.

I had a ton of tricks for staying fit: but I can only remember these:
*Eat something the minute I wake up
*Eat small portions all day- whenever my body says its hungry

Thats it, thats all I remember.
Several months ago my dog passed away and I was grieving ...

What does your spark name mean?

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 01:55:53 EST

I am Kenyan and I come from a village in the western part of Kenya called Ramula. My spark name Nyaramula simply means 'daughter of Ramula'. My mum likes to call me Nyaramula and this name gives me a certain special connection to my mum. She is a very strong woman, I have always admired her faith in God, her strength, her determination, her resilience and her work ethic. That is why this name made so much sense to me as a spark name.

I have come across some interesting names on thi...

I know I can do this, but something holds me back

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 22:02:41 EST

I need a check in partner...BAD.

I have lost total 48 lbs since 2008. On one hand, that rocks, but on the other, it is not all that great because my sister in law lost 100 in a YEAR. Of that 48, I have gained back between 6-8...since March. Not cool at all.

I know what works for me, but I am stumped on how to start again. At the beginning of the year, I did a Daniel Fast, then went to Paleo, then gluten free, then just went completely nuts. Paleo killed my grocery...

I'm hungry!

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 21:46:11 EST

How do you handle hunger? I hate feeling hungry. Sometimes, between meals at work, I get so hungry that I feel like I'm going to pass out. What are your fighting hunger tips? I work in a microbiology lab. I can't bring food/drinks into the lab.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY !!!

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 14:40:25 EST

Say Guy's " have a good day" Watch the calories & God Bless You.

Will I ever get it???

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 08:00:56 EST

I am so up and down mostly down. Before I could lose weight and keep motivated. Now the last 2 years Im a yoyo....

What is your best strategy when you slip a little?

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 04:55:24 EST

Hi, yesterday was a little bit weird... Although during the day I was super good with my diet, by the end I decided to "try a little bit" and ended eating an apple covered with caramel and some Chinese rice (you know, with vegetables and meat BUT fry :/).
I know that once a week is ok to eat a little bit more, but the truth is that after a few bites of the apple I wasn't hungry anymore I just thought that it was delicious and I don't feel super bloated.

However I've been fig...

It's been 11 years

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 00:34:46 EST

I've been on a diet 11 years. I have gained 40 pounds. I must always believe that this time it will work, otherwise I am totally depressed. I have to live in a fantasy just to maintain some mental health.

Food Journals: Worth it?

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 22:44:38 EST

Does anyone out there write down every single thing they eat? I've heard good things about using journals but sometimes I just get annoyed that I have to pull at the journal all the time. I would love start one up again, is there anyway to help you remember to do it or make it less of a hassle?

Reunion...

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 11:09:24 EST

so last night I had my reunion. Let's just say I was feeling great about myself until 2 girls that I was envious of in high school walked in and they still look great!! UGH... I wish I could lose this weight. I am struggling so much with everything, I feel like such a failure. I work my butt off weekly and I have cut calories I am even on thyroid medication now and I still haven't lost any weight. I don't get it!!! I try very hard to kick my work outs up but it is not working. I don't ...

Does anyone have MS

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 20:32:14 EST

My doctor says I may have MS can anyone tell me how they found out they had MS and their symptoms?

What changes do I need to make?

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 19:37:46 EST

I don't know if this is the right place to post this but...ugh, I hate to be that girl, but I'm gonna vent for a second.

I've been losing weight for a while now. Obviously, at first, the pounds came off pretty easily - and the closer I get to my target weight, the harder it gets. But I think I've plateaued, for 2 months, and I'm still 20 pounds off! Aaackk!!

And believe me, I've read and done it all (well, pretty close)

I've cut out sugar and refined carbs, I ...

Can't Get the Ball Rolling

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 11:20:41 EST

I've been trying for the past two months to shed some weight and the scale has not moved. I started exercising 3 days a week on top of my regular weekly activites and i've cut down on soda and eliminated sweets.I stay in my calorie range at least 6 days a week, I track them on another app. I also added in more veggies and eat smaller portion sizes. So what gives? Any tips to get the scale moving would be greatly appreciated

getting motivated again

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 10:59:06 EST

iam a stay at home mom and I got very lazy on things like exercising and diet
we do good on diet feel lazy about the exercising and then I mess on diet
I had weight loss surgery at 2005 or 2006 and had two kids since it was my weight that stop me from having kids
I was down from 350 to 190 with first child now iam at 280 something its been going up and down ever since
I was told I have high blood and I had borderline sugar so I need help to get going
I tell myself Mon...

15lb target....

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 23:06:13 EST

I have a huge ventral hernia that needs to repaired, again. I met with the surgeon and I need to lose 15lbs more to have the surgery done. Compared to what I have lost, that isn't a lot, but I am at the slow end of weight loss now and very limited on exercise choices due to the hernia. So it feels oh so close and oh so far away at the same time!!!!!! Trying hard to keep doing it the slow, permanent healthy way.....but medifast is looking really good right now!!! 40

5K walk/job training

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 22:43:15 EST

Felt good today. Finished my second day of training. I wish the weather wasn't so hot because I would like to walk/job on the school track.

Arghhhh! Cellulite !!!

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 08:17:22 EST

I look in the mirror and think, why would I lose weight if I'm going to not look good both ways! Fat is horrible and cellulite is also horrible! So even if I lost the weight ill be left with extra skin, cellulite etc! Would love some opinions here thanks

What was your "aha" moment?

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 08:14:40 EST

What made u realize you had to lose weight? What really made you motivated and thought I must do this from today and onwards?
Last time I lost weight was when hubby promised me a three month overseas holiday, so I knew I had to lose weight for it. But anything could be the reason you started, like a doctors report? The way you saw yourself in the mirror? A childs comment?

How Do You Control Your Cravings?

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 17:01:41 EST

So I'm going through ovulation week and have been craving pizza and stuffed shells like crazy. I started out with a good breakfast, but forgot to bring my sunflower kernals to work to snack on to help tie me over til I got home and could have a real meal. I was so starving all day at work and then it happened...the nurses meeting had a ton of pizza leftover and were sharing it with the rest of the employees. It was in the breakroom while I was on break and people kept digging into it.
P...

Busy Women Need Motivation Too

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 14:28:26 EST

Hi! My name is Liz and I'm fairly new here. It's hard to stay motivated to "lose" or push yourself hard enough to do that. I think that the best way to be motivated, or at least the only thing I haven't tried yet, is a SMALL GROUP.

I really want to start a SparkTeam of a handful of ladies from all parts of life. Preferably ladies who are very busy and can relate to that. I hope to start this SparkTeam to share our struggles, thoughts, goals, celebrations, ideas for workouts ...

number stays the same

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 13:46:07 EST

The number has stayed the same, but my stomach has a fat-packs and yea, lost an inch around waist but even after all the muscle making and exercising....why is it the same number as when I started??

Lost 20 lbs but can't tell?

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 11:38:49 EST

So... A month ago my dr. told me I have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and that I needed to loose weight so I got motivated to get my act together. It's been about 6 weeks and I've been kicking my but into action and working hard and I've lost almost 20 lbs but... I can't tell :(

It's a bit discouraging, because last night at work a guy said, "You only weigh 192 lbs?"

I was like... Really? I started at 210, dude.

How much weight do I have to loose before I star...

The Fish Bowl

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 11:31:59 EST

Do you ever get the feeling that your in a fish bowl 175 watching what's going on around you, and trying to stay afloat??

We probably all have a feeling some what like this......how do you deal with these kinds of feelings??

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Iphone and SP

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 06:49:10 EST

I am leaving on vacation tomorrow morning for 6 weeks and will have limited internet access...except for my husband's Iphone.
Have any of you used Iphone to access SP and how did it work as far as trying to do your nutrition and fitness tracking?
I really appreciate any input.
Thanks!

Not Giving Up!

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 20:32:25 EST

I've had quite a bit of success since I've been here with SP. I've lost just over 40 lbs since Jan (just over 50 lbs total). Lately I've been falling back into old bad habits. Eating while cooking, finishing my kids' plates, munching on left overs, and my sweet tooth is in full force for the first time in months. I don't know whether it's because I'm more comfortable with new body or because I'm falling back into that self sabotage mode that I've struggled with in the past. I've done so well ...

Do not give up

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 20:14:56 EST

Hello Everyone, I am new on this site. I love it so much that I have to kiss the computer. I have lost two pounds in one week, I had eight glasses of water today. I ran outdoors and before I go to bed I am going to run on t he treadmill. I am sooooooooooooooooo excited. I weight 154 pounds, my goal is to weigh 145 by August 18. I am 5ft 7inches. I am in the right weight zone for my heigh but I am usually 140 and I feel much better and more confident at 140 pounds. So help me to stay on track ...

WEATHER IS TOO HOT

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 19:27:44 EST

walk today doing a lot of sweating make me feel good hope it will help with the weight loss I hope I can stay motivated thanks spark family

Not too sure how much I gained but I am encouraged

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 01:43:49 EST

I recently moved across the country. So I have been off SP for about 2 months. I know that I have gained some weight. The last time I checked it was 7 pounds. I am feeling encouraged about this time in my life. I have love and support, it helps me to feel like I can accomplish anything. My mindset has also changed. Instead of feeling negative about the pounds that I gained. I decided not to look at the scale but work the same successful plan that I had done before. I measure my success by how...

guilt feeling

Sun, 9 Jun 2013 19:20:49 EST

Hi
i don't know if anyone is feeling like i do but since i started the diet ,i feel guilty toward any food i eat despite i'm not exceeding a 1000 calories per day and my range is 1200-1500 calories .
any advice?

How to use the food and fitness trackers

Sun, 9 Jun 2013 12:13:55 EST

Every time I try to track my food or exercises, they are not in the list. How am I supposed to get a clear idea of calories eaten and burned?
As an example, I began today again by trying to track the first thing, PG Tips Black tea with a TB brown sugar and 2% milk and of coarse it was not in there. Also, juiced apples, carrots and beets which I have no idea how what is in that as far as calories and sugar etc. if its not in the list, it doesn't add it.
Same for exercise, I was at th...

Stressful job making sugar addiction worse!

Sun, 9 Jun 2013 09:58:07 EST

Hello All. I'm new here and really needing some help. I'm stuck in a VERY stressful work environment and it makes my eating habits worse. I wish I was one of those people that don't eat with depression and stress but, that's not the case. I go the opposite direction and eat candy/sweets/ice cream to make the feelings better. I have dieted on and off all my life and have lost weight successfully many times but, nothing has been working for the past couple years. Any helpful tips for around 2-3...

SIT-UP'S !!!

Sun, 9 Jun 2013 03:09:10 EST

HOW MANY DO YOU DO EVERYDAY ???????????????

CRUNCHES !!!

Sun, 9 Jun 2013 03:07:38 EST

HOW MANY DO YOU DO EVERYDAY ????????????????

Temptation is everywhere :-/

Sun, 9 Jun 2013 01:54:28 EST

How can I stay away from temptation just till I'm used to this lifestyle? Arghhhhhh it's everywhere!!! We went to a fun park today and hubby and kids ofcourse wanted..... Popcorn/fairy floss/ take out. How can I resist temptation??? I need this my whole life :(

When to start Spark Coach....?

Sun, 9 Jun 2013 00:38:01 EST

Many of you recommended the Spark Coach feature to me and I want to try it but my life is so hectic, I am afraid I will waste my free trial! I am on the motivation board because I do not feel motivated or like I have the self control to keep my goals. I worked REALLY hard for the past 6 months and have no results whatsoever. It's VERY discouraging and so hard to keep going.

I have to travel a lot this week, so a lot of car-time, plus I have to bake a big cake for my daughters birt...

Pain in my knee

Sat, 8 Jun 2013 18:50:40 EST

Tuesday I woke up with a pain in my knee and a stabbing pain in my foot when I tried to do my routine workout I couldn't stand the pain so I took it as a sign that my body needed a break because I have been doing some strenuous exercises. So yesterday I did a boxing workout and today when I tried to get back into my old routine I just couldn't take the pain I hate it because I was seeing real results with my routine now I have to figure out a new one that will give the same affect without fur...

Feeling fat and down

Sat, 8 Jun 2013 17:09:01 EST

Summer break just started with my 10 year old he is a high maintenace , high functioning autistic boy with no friends but he wants friends not mom. I have as of today lost 30 pounds. Of course MY way of seeing it..I am still VERY fat and have a HUGE belly and what is the point I have 65 to go yet to get back to pre pregnancy weight. 198 I feel like I haven't made a dent. I just want summer to be over. I am with this kid 24/7 5 days a week then work 2 12 hour shifts ont he weekend....

What does the scale mean to you?

Fri, 7 Jun 2013 13:04:04 EST

I recently became obsessed with measuring myself and with standing on the scale. My mentor suggested I write about what the scale means to me. So I wrote a page in my journal about it, but I would like to know from you spark people what the scale or body measurements mean to you. Thanks! Bless! Keep coming back! :)

I did it!!!!

Fri, 7 Jun 2013 09:46:39 EST

My motivation has been lacking for a while and I have decided to get back on track.

This week, I completed (5 days) of going to the gym before work (and getting up at 5 am) and doing the elliptical for 45 minutes (4 days and 30 minutes 1 day) !!! I feel really good but have decided not to weigh right now just take my measurements weekly and go by how I feel.
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Dinner- my nemesis

Fri, 7 Jun 2013 06:57:02 EST

Does anyone else have this issue?

I have really gotten good at tracking what I eat and trying to plan ahead. I do great sticking to the plan during breakfast, lunch, and two snacks during the day, but once we get to dinner forget it! I may make exactly what was suggested by the tracker but I seem to be terrible at portion control. Any suggestions on how to overcome?

How do you stay motivated throughout the process?

Fri, 7 Jun 2013 05:07:21 EST

Hi!

I have to admit, I really struggle. I find it harder and harder to stay with a plan, because I feel like I exercise so much willpower not giving into tempations, and put in so much time preparing healthy meals, planning what to eat...and then of course, there's the working out! And then I step on the scales a few pounds down with x amount still to go!

I know that all the pounds add up over time, but I find it hard to put in all the work only to STILL be fat...just a ...

What are you proud of today?

Thu, 6 Jun 2013 14:55:05 EST

Instead of snacking, I spent an hour sewing hair bows I plan to sell (and chugging water).

Think postive

Thu, 6 Jun 2013 14:21:50 EST

I am over motivated today

Need a Weight Loss Buddy ASAP Going to the beach

Thu, 6 Jun 2013 10:27:04 EST

So we have booked a Hotel for the beach and I need to lose weight like yesterday!! Im hoping to find a weight loss buddy that able to check in a couple times a week or more just to make sure we are on the right path. Hoping to do some weigh ins once a week to. If your interested please send me a message. Together we can do this!!

Please help/advise - not losing!!

Thu, 6 Jun 2013 05:28:29 EST

Hello lovely spark people. You all seem to have such great advice to offer so i'm wondering if you could help with this.......
I am wanting to lose just 8 pounds - current weight is 134lbs Goal weight is 126lbs (i'm 5ft 2)

For the last 3 weeks i have been sticking to a 1200 calorie a day eating plan and on average am burning 500 calories a day through cardio.

The question.... Why have i not lost a single pound?? Could i be going wrong somewhere? Any advice you have-...

WHAT DOES MOTIVATION MEAN TO YOU ??

Thu, 6 Jun 2013 03:02:54 EST

JUST CURIOUS !!!

OH THOSE STRETCH MARKS!

Thu, 6 Jun 2013 02:48:45 EST

Ever since I've come out of the hospital, I've been a roller coaster of emotions.
And today, I hit a low point.
Sure, I've been able to walk around and up and down and around the block. But I do miss the workouts. My body hasn't completely healed from the emergency surgery.
Food intake, naturally, started to be my comforter. Luckily, an order of books came in and I ditched the sweets and got lost in reading (which is also a "bad" thing -I didn't track my food in time that day!)...

Binge Eating

Thu, 6 Jun 2013 01:38:09 EST

Hi, Im new here and I guess I've been in this roaller coaster of binge eating... By december 2012 I weighted 131 pounds (like 60 Kg) and I was really happy! I was on a diet that let me eat fine and loose weight, now I gained 15 pounds, mostly because I had a lot of problems in my university at that time... especially because since them I've been in an endless (good diet for 3 days, binge in 2, over eat in the other two). So I was just wondering If anyone has been like this before and how have...

Motivational poster copyright question

Wed, 5 Jun 2013 17:08:32 EST

I love the spark motivation posters, and I want to use some favorites to make a poster for my wall. Would be be a copyright problem. I know they are all over the internet by now but I just want to make sure.

THanks

Finding motivation to work out after working

Wed, 5 Jun 2013 17:05:43 EST

I had to work this morning and after working 6 hours with no break, my feet are KILLING me. I honestly do not feel like working out today, even though I know there's still 3 and a half more hours I could work out. Should I just skimp on working out or should I try and suck it up?

How can I quit quitting?

Wed, 5 Jun 2013 15:26:42 EST

Diet and exercise have always been difficult for me, because I don't stick to anything very long. I have tons of unfinished projects. I always have some stupid excuse or end up in pain. But the few times I really did stick to exercising, I saw results, and I don't know why ... here's the thing. Every time I start to see results, I quit. Don't know why. Get scared? Maybe. If anyone else has come up with this same problem, I would be interested in hearing from you.

FULL BODY JOY

Wed, 5 Jun 2013 14:34:56 EST

i read something recently about a description of a photograph that the author had seen (sorry, that this sounds convoluted... but, it's more about what the image portrayed than the specifics).

anyway...

she described the photo of a conductor with his arns outstretched, body poised, head thrown back and hair flying with a HUGE smile and his eyes closed.

FULL BODY JOY was how she described it.

so, i ask you, have you ever experienced joy so big, that ...

Need more energy

Wed, 5 Jun 2013 14:27:34 EST

My doctor put me on a low carb diet. I've been keeping track on Sparkpeople.com and I'm averaging 60 carbs a day and 60 protein and 900 calories and fat 40-50 I also take vitimin b-12 1000mg, I'm doing good lost 9 lbs in two weeks but I have no energy to exercise I walk on the treadmill but only can do 3 minutes at a time because I feel weak in the legs if I try for more. Do I need to eat more protein or carbs to be able to walk longer?

Finding Time to Exercise

Wed, 5 Jun 2013 14:19:27 EST

I keep trying to get back on track with my exercise, but time always seems to be a factor (there is just not enough time in a day). Now, I know that seems like (and it probably is) an excuse, but working full-time and a mom of 3, by the time everything is done for the day, working out at 8 or 9:00 is the last thing I really want to think about. And I've considered morning workouts, but I already have hard time getting up at 5 to start my day. Thought/suggestions on where to find time, finding...

Creative user name ideas

Wed, 5 Jun 2013 14:00:12 EST

I want to change my username to something more creative. I desgined my spark page a tropical paradise background and the photo of a lady who is carefree and dancing by the beach. it reflects my personality and I would like to incoroporate that in my username any suggestions?

treats rewards a new way of thinking

Wed, 5 Jun 2013 11:34:20 EST

Rethink treat rewards.
Treat your body to a healthy treat.
Be happy to treat your body to a handful of berries, a handful of protein, a handful of carbs, a handful of good stuff for the body.
Treat your body to something healthy.
Take notice that you are having a great treat, that you are being rewarded.

Change your thinking. Junk food is not a treat, it is not a reward. Junk food is junk food and it fits in your diet, but it is not a treat and it is not a rew...

Am I being unreasonable?

Wed, 5 Jun 2013 08:23:36 EST

Background: I live in a house with 3 other young women and we have a 1 car parking spot plus on-street parking (which can get tight after rush hour). House rule when I moved in was that whoever was home last would get the spot.

I'm out late-ish 2-3 times a week because I do different sports activities that my roommates don't. I'll get home from those at 9pm or later. One of my roommates who gets home usually around 630 isn't happy with this and wants to use the spot more often. A...

Motivating myself

Tue, 4 Jun 2013 18:00:42 EST

I have been motivating myself my paying myself $5.00 for every mile I walk. This way I can begin planning a great vacation with the money I save to show off my new body.

I need help!

Tue, 4 Jun 2013 18:00:02 EST

I've been traveling almost constantly for the last year, and I've gained quite a bit of weight. I'm miserable about it, though I'm trying to be positive. I keep falling off of the wagon however, due to being on the road. I really need some help feeling motivated, and to not despair of my appearance in the mirror. Do you have any tips? How do you stay positive, and keep from having your self esteem ripped to shreds when you see photos of yourself on facebook? 46

Staying motivated during 6 week vaca w/o SP

Tue, 4 Jun 2013 16:30:11 EST

Hej everyone! I am going on vacation for 6 weeks with limited internet access. I will not be able to chart my nutrition and fitness daily, though I will be able to do it occasionally.
While I am committed to staying the course I am a little worried because I have relied on SP to keep me accountable.
Any suggestions on how to keep myself focused would be very much appreciated. Thank you all for being on this site and being so inspirational for me!

Need a new/good habit/behavior to replace bad.

Tue, 4 Jun 2013 16:18:32 EST

Longstanding behavior of watching TV/eating at night. Eating starts out healthy but ends up unhealthy. Been on my weight loss journey for over a year with success but this has been a tough one to conquer and has often slowed my weight loss.
I don't knit,sew, etc. Not into crafts. Any suggestions of new behaviors? What has worked for you?

Guilty as I Write This...

Tue, 4 Jun 2013 14:39:44 EST

So..I was feeling on top of the world as I get closer and closer to 20lbs lost...but today broke me. The scale hasn't moved in about a week..and actually I gained 2lbs back as of this morning. :( I don't get it. I have been carefully tracking calories and working out a few times a week. I made it through half of my day, but then just broke down and ran to the corner store for a soda and candy bar. :( Why has the scale stopped moving? My husband says I have gained more muscle, as I have been d...

why am i unmotivated!

Tue, 4 Jun 2013 11:32:43 EST

I am so frustrated! I tell myself..no fast food, then I head to the first place I see!! I been slacking off on my workouts too! its like I am my own road block!

why am I self sabotaging myself! I lost 90lbs in 2008..then I quit smoking and gained it back, now its like I am always giving myself a pass..by saying, i will workout on Monday..i have not ate this or that..and give myself permission to eat it!

Being accountable...take pictures!

Tue, 4 Jun 2013 09:25:01 EST

I have tried something totally new over the last week and I lost some lbs by doing it.. Just wanted to share and I blogged about it as well...

I have a very hard time keeping track and logging everything I eat. I have moved from myfitness pal to the sparks food tracker app and I love it more!
However, I get so busy,, I forget what goes in my mouth..

I started taking pictures of my meals with my Iphone.. I look at the picture that I take and I have realized I have be...

I'm so angry with myself!!!

Mon, 3 Jun 2013 23:12:27 EST

Hi, I'm a dialysis patient. So, besides trying to lose this darn tummy, I need to watch my fluid levels as well, among other things.

The thing is, I've been eating whatever I want whenever I want for a few months now and my clothes are getting tighter! To make matters worse, I've even stopped urinating. So, watching my fluid levels is even more crucial and essential now!

I'm so angry with myself for letting myself slip soo!!!! I feel so fat now! And I can't even have a c...

Trying to stick it out

Mon, 3 Jun 2013 22:55:40 EST

I've been working on changing my eating and exercising habits since February. My doctor advised me that my cholesterol level was very high, medication needed high. I asked if there was something I could to to try to bring it down - diet and exercise? - before going on medication. She said yes, and gave me until the end of June for a check in. I went from her office to the library and picked up two American Heart Association cookbooks. I knew the only way I could make this work was to fin...

How can I stop cravings

Mon, 3 Jun 2013 20:29:09 EST

Just want to know if anyone knows how to stop cravings during the weekend. I'm the only one in the house that have chosen a new lifestyle and everyone else has junk food. its getting very difficult. any tips?

How do YOU stay motivated?

Mon, 3 Jun 2013 16:05:40 EST

Hi all, I am a spark member since August of 2012. Love this website. I've lost 101 pounds. Still have about 75 to go before I hit my "magic" number. Not that I am counting on the number. It is just a number after all.. The question to all the other peeps, what do you do to stay motivated when you are plateauing or look in the mirror and just feel "meh"? I don't want to backslide but in this age of instant gratification sometimes it's difficult to keep the big picture in mind.

Food Tracker past Lunch... Fail

Mon, 3 Jun 2013 16:00:28 EST

I need some hints as to how to kick my but to track foods after lunch.
I seem to just peter out and totally get to busy, and blow off all the wonderful options available on SparkPeople past 1pm.

How did all of you round the corner and get Sparked to use the program more and more?
Thanks in advance!!!

Video Challenges

Mon, 3 Jun 2013 15:33:57 EST

Fitness videos are every where, and while I might not make it to the gym for an hour... or even a one mile hike. I can normally manage one of Coach Nicole's 10 minute videos.

I am looking for someone who wants to do video challenges with me. When you do a fitness video send it to me as a challenge, then when I complete it I can send you one back. I can't do the punches or the kicks perfect, my goal is moving... so I am looking for someone who gets that little excitement from a...

Visual reminders to be positive

Mon, 3 Jun 2013 14:40:32 EST

I know they talk about a collage of motivational images but I don't find I have the time (or the printer ink) for that apart from my desktop background.

My solution? For every day I get through positively (even with setbacks, just talking about a positive mindset) I put one sticky note on my bathroom mirror with a reason that I'm doing this. Before long I can see how my spark streaks and consistency affect my mood.

What do you guys do to remind yourself to be motivated? ...

Starting over woah's...and ache's...and...

Mon, 3 Jun 2013 13:54:20 EST

Pardon me while I indulge in a pity (or whining) party, but wanted to get it out of my system. I'm starting over - again - for the upteenth time. Yesterday, I decided I was going to do it for real this time - lose the last 20-30 pounds I've been claiming is baby weight despite the fact that kiddo is now 10.5 years old. So I went for a walk and was nearly attacked by a dog that the neighborhood is now hunting to have put down. What was going to be a liesurely Sunday walk to get me back in ...

Kids Plate Compulsion

Mon, 3 Jun 2013 10:05:17 EST

Morning All, I am only 2 days into ANOTHER attempt to stay on track. My problem today is how to stop myself from eating off the kids plate hen I clean the table. They always have left over and for some reason between the table and the garbage can it ends up in my mouth. When making my food I have no problem with self control and do not snack at all but the kids plate thing is almost involuntary. It is not the end of the world but the extra calories here and there are certainly not helping. An...

Zumba on PS3

Sun, 2 Jun 2013 20:25:32 EST

Looking for people who want to Zumba with me on the PS3. I just got the game. Haven't gotten it hooked up yet, but will this week. Can't wait to start!!!

June - DETERMINED TO LOSE 10 POUNDS Challenge

Sun, 2 Jun 2013 18:40:50 EST

I have done these challenges for the past several months and while I have not lost 10 pounds each month, I have done well, losing at least 6 or 7 pounds each month - I am down 32 pounds since January 1 - which in MY BOOK is pretty good. Let's work on this - the REAL GOAL is support and progress - the 10 pounds is a REAL motivator but not achievable for EVERYONE.

My starting weight is 269 for June.

Augh!

Sun, 2 Jun 2013 09:36:33 EST

I started off doing the whole low carb thing and then decided to flip back over to Sparkpeople to make sure that I was eating right and could do this long term. I stay within my numbers and I have been doing an hour on the treadmill everyday, burning at least 300 calories each day. My weight will go down 2 lbs and then back up 1.2 lbs and then back down .2 lbs. I don't understand why when I stay in the ranges and exercise everyday that my weight goes up??? And also all I drink is water with t...

Lost a stone!

Sun, 2 Jun 2013 07:56:01 EST

Hey guys, today i weighed and i have officially lost a stone. So proud of myself, and in such a short period of time. I am currently finishing my second week of insanity workout, am so looking forward to the fitness test on Monday for all those who have done it will understand what I'm on about.

I love sparkpeople, tracking your calories really makes a difference!

JUST JOINED A 5K RACE !!

Sun, 2 Jun 2013 02:02:04 EST

ANYBODY GOING TO JOIN ME ?? HEY NANCYPATI COME ON. 72 3/4 TRS. OLD YOU CAN TRY THIS.

Starting over again

Sat, 1 Jun 2013 13:40:12 EST

I got side tracked from my healthy diet for about two weeks. I had so much stress that food was my only was to find relief. I woke up this morning and told myself to stop what I was doing and get back to my spark family. Today is my first day back in the saddle and I am going forward one step at a time.

Need a Jump Start Again...Losing is stalled.

Sat, 1 Jun 2013 13:04:12 EST

Any ideas on a jump start? It has been a month and only lost 1.5 lbs. I had four weeks with no gains but no losses either. I have a long way to go and need to get going. I feel eat healthy and exercise but evidently not enough exercise. I do the best I can as I am on oxygen and can't do strenuous exercise but I play music and dance, wear a pedometer and move all the time but I don't do a timed walk all the time. Everyone says be patient but when you have as much to lose as I do it...

Books on c.d.

Sat, 1 Jun 2013 12:40:59 EST

I'm starting to get books on C.D. and it's really helping with my attitude and ability to think. What do you think about it? 149

Spark Coach task - post a goal you have

Sat, 1 Jun 2013 09:49:03 EST

My lowest weight in my Spark Trek was 185, set in September. I gained back to 204, but now I am back to 192. I want to weigh 185 again by my son's graduation on the 21st. I think seven pounds in three weeks is ambitious, but possible. If I don't make it, I will still be going in the right direction and will weigh less at his graduation than I do now.

Spark Coach says making the goal public is a great motivator for sticking to the goal.

What is your goal you would l...

Need some female spark buddies

Fri, 31 May 2013 19:29:34 EST

Hi my name is Christa, I started spark people a few years ago and lost some weight. Then I got pregnant with my son and almost two years later I still haven't lost the baby weight. So here I am trying to lose again. I have heard so many times that one of the things that helps with success is to have support from the spark teams and I have tried to get plugged into a few this time around but either they aren't active teams or they have there own little cliques and it's hard to get in. I have b...

JUNE 2013 Gratitudes, All are Welcome!

Fri, 31 May 2013 19:28:34 EST

195 Gratitude can make a real difference in your ability to feel positive, both emotionally and physically. The idea here is to write at least five things you are grateful or appreciative each day, thus cultivating an attitude of gratitude I will be here with my 5 when it is June for me. I appreciate everyone who joins me in this tradition.

"We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures." –Thornton Wilder

Whe...

Beginning frustrations

Fri, 31 May 2013 19:01:21 EST

I have been really trying hard in the last 8 days. My first 8 days. Following my calories and exercising. I stepped on the scale today and it says I've GAINED about 9 lbs. I'm so sad. And confused. I don't really know what to do. I really want to stay motivated. And I know it's been a very short time but I believe I should see a little movement. Generally I've felt fine. But today I'm hungry and not happy at all. Help. Somebody :( 46

Sometimes the scale says "Impossible"

Fri, 31 May 2013 18:12:47 EST

I'm at a total loss. I am on my first rest day in two weeks. I know I'm supposed to rest one day a week but due to a friends surprising invite, I had to cancel last weeks rest day to be there with her! So two weeks have gone by since my last weigh in and in that time I have successfully hiked 5 mountains, played 3 games of hockey, gone for a few runs and used my bike to get to work er'ryday! With the addition of watching my eating habits and tracking my calories, I thought for sure I was goin...

looking for some female accountability partners

Fri, 31 May 2013 12:37:39 EST

I am taking a binge eating class to address my binge/ undereating issues. I am looking for 2 female accountability partners to help me. my mentor reccomends me have some. you will get the answers to my lessons and offer support and encouragement any helpful suggestions. the course I am taking in christian based. if interested send me a private message or reply here. I will then need your email only to send you my lesson answers. my mentor wants a dependable accountability partner who can resp...

Not losing weight...so frustrating!

Fri, 31 May 2013 09:48:57 EST

So over the past two and a half years I've lost about 22 pounds and I'm currently at 133. I've been happy to see that I've maintained this weight but my real goal is to be between 115-120. I am not an unhealthy eater and I started really exercising again about two months ago. I usually eat about 6 small meals a day.

I also just got the BodyMedia Fit Core and have been using their goals for the past week. They say to burn 2125 a day (including BMR) and eating 1375 calories. I have b...

post menopause motivation needed!

Fri, 31 May 2013 07:19:26 EST

at 53 I'm doing just fine -- happily married, healthy (touch wood!), raising teens, working, engaged in my hobbies, and about 25 pounds heavier than I want to be. I'm also walking a lot, but still nowhere near fit. In my youth, I could just eat less, exercise more, and drop the pounds (and get fit quick). Now, I do all I used to do and nothing happens. In other words, I need to double the effort for the same outcome. It's hard to feel the desire! Any suggestions?

weight loss from chemo

Fri, 31 May 2013 06:44:23 EST

The big PLUS is that chemo is now behind me .. .. ..

I lost 20 pounds or so. Chemo is not a preferred way to lose pounds, but I can fight for this to be my new current weight, while I work on getting back into the swing of things

Bad weather stopped you from walking outside ????

Fri, 31 May 2013 02:56:27 EST

Rochester Hill's MI had 4 severe t-storm's yesterday but I saw a few walking & running

Clothes - get rid of the old or hang on to them?

Thu, 30 May 2013 15:46:13 EST

I was just wondering how people deal with what to keep ( or buy) while trying to lose weight. I have recently cleaned the out my closet and put things that I hope to someday wear out of sight. The trouble is that I really do want to look good now. So, do I buy a few things now and maybe alter them later or forget shopping all together. I have 20 pounds to lose and my confidence is pretty low. I'm finding it pretty hard to even imagine buying a smaller size.
What did some of you buy or r...

Making the most of everything

Thu, 30 May 2013 13:41:56 EST

So I recently had emergency surgery due to finding out I had a ruptured cyst. Due to this, I'm bedridden at home. My doctor recommended that I do mild walking for the next week or two until my incisions heal. What else do you recommend for entry level working out after a surgery? Also not allowed to lift past 10 lbs. Never had this before. Thanks for any advice!

What Did/Will You Do For Your Healthy Anniversary?

Thu, 30 May 2013 11:33:31 EST

244 179 437
July 1st will be my 6 month anniversary of a new, healthier me! I am so proud and so excited... I owe it to myself to celebrate my hard work and success thus far.

In the past, any celebration - no matter how small - revolved around food (of course). I have no desire to celebrate with food nowadays. Instead, I want to do something fun! And hopefully free.

Any ideas? What did you do when you made it 6 months into your n...

How do you break the cycle?

Thu, 30 May 2013 09:43:34 EST

Lately I have not been able to break the bad habit cycle and get my act together to start my healthier lifestyle. I go to bed exhausted but can not seem to fall asleep and stay asleep. I start out the day with good intention and eat a healthy breakfast. I also pack a healthy lunch for work. By the time lunch comes around my healthy lunch isnt appealing. I get in my truck just to get a break and usually go grab fast food if I eat anything. After work I walk sometimes but usually I am unpackin...

Happy New Birthday..Woke Up Today

Thu, 30 May 2013 07:49:57 EST

and realized that I am so worth it. How did it take me so long to figure this out? I have been short changing myself for so long. I am worth the effort, I am worth cooking healthy for, I am worth working out for, I am worth putting the effort into being the best me I can be. I've realized since my kids have moved out and I live alone I've let myself believe I'm not worth the effort. No more! Today is like a rebirth and I'm going to celebrate me.
I hope that if there is anyone else out t...

What is your motivation to stay in shape?

Wed, 29 May 2013 22:33:25 EST

What is pushing you to take that extra step to slim down and become healthier?
I want to be able to wear a bathing suit without feeling embarrassed, be healthy and in shape not only for what people see on the outside but the good it will do for the inside.

Feel better

Wed, 29 May 2013 19:44:36 EST

I received an item on Facebook. Did you know that stressed spelled backward is desserts. 189

cant break the soda

Wed, 29 May 2013 12:56:07 EST

i need to get rid of soda and keep t that way any suggestions ?

Switched to maintaining- so many calories!

Wed, 29 May 2013 10:36:14 EST

I'm not at my weight goal, but my doctor suggested I focus on maintaining for the next year while many other life-style factors are in flux.

I switched my goal information and gained 800 calories per day! I know I burn a lot by swimming, but this seems like waaay too much for me (my low-end is over 2000). 15

Scale skips and jumps

Wed, 29 May 2013 09:28:06 EST

Hey there,

So I aim to weigh myself twice a week (though I usually get anal and do so almost every day). I have this weird tendancy to maintain EXACTLY the same weight for about 2-3 weeks and then BAM, almost overnight I will drop 2-3 pounds.

My tendency to be anal also means I keep a spreadsheet of calories. When I figure it all out (calorie deficit by week/3,500 calories to lose a pound), I am right on track, but
1. It is weird that I drop the weight in 2-3 days...

Why is it so hard to stop eating

Tue, 28 May 2013 23:45:39 EST

I eat until I'm in pain every single day. Then I continue to eat. That's all I want to do. I want to wake up tomorrow and be different but I know that's unrealistic. I do need to start making some immediate changes and I really would like support that I don't get in the real world. I feel like everyone else enables my eating.

Lets start together!!!

Tue, 28 May 2013 20:32:13 EST

Hi ..im 5'7 , 203 lbs,28, male
I really want to try to get healthy...again but i feel like it would be better if I had someone to do it with me. Just send me a message or reply. I am hoping to find someone who I can email/msg with more or less every day to help keep each other on track. I am willing to start whenever or as soon as possible.

Let me know, thanks
Nick

What do you want?

Tue, 28 May 2013 13:53:27 EST

I am on this journey because I want to lose weight, but that's not all I want!
I want to climb the stairs at home and not get winded.
I want to look in the mirror and be proud, just because I know I'm doing the best I can to take good care of myself.
I want to set a good example for my daughter, so she can grow up living a healthy lifestyle and hopefully avoid some of my struggles.
I want to go to bed at night with the satisfaction of knowing I made it a healthy day, l...

Social eating & motivation

Tue, 28 May 2013 12:50:53 EST

I had not realized until recently that most of my social activities involve eating or drinking. Hubby and I go to dinner on dates. We go to concerts, events, and festivals where having a drink is part of the experience. Trips to the baseball game usually mean nachos, a hot dog, and a beer. Even work or social group gatherings center around pot luck meals.

I have to admit that I am losing motivation for several reasons and it is a vicious cycle. I partake of social eating and then ...

How do you break a plateau?

Tue, 28 May 2013 10:02:26 EST

I was losing 3-4 lbs a week, Jan - March. Then BAM! I hit a brick wall in April. 4 pounds the whole month! I was still exercising the same (45-60 min on a recumbant bike most evenings), and eating at the lower end of my calorie range. I tried "cheat days", "rest days", etc. Everyone was saying "muscle weighs more than fat", "it's water weight" and yada, yada, yada... I don't know what really "busted" it, because I did four things all at once; upped my water intake from 64 ozs a day to half my...

never give up never give in.

Tue, 28 May 2013 04:38:02 EST

Hi everybody just a word of encouragement to both you and me, if you fail in your diet or excersize plan don't give up. just keep going forward use your support team if you don't have one find those who will give you the right support and motivation to keep going on with your life. 381

I see a different "me".

Tue, 28 May 2013 00:07:23 EST

I'm pretty sure that other people see a different "me."

The more weight I lose, the fatter I feel and the worse my self esteem gets. The more weight I lose, the less motivated I become to maintain my new "lifestyle diet." (Makes little sense, I know)

I try to focus on how far I've come and not how far I have to go... but I can't help but compare myself to everyone around me. I look at recent photos and only see what's wrong with myself.

I can't help but think...

Listening to running songs

Mon, 27 May 2013 14:25:51 EST

I listen to running songs like Hey Ya, and Footloose, and this really gets me going during my running workout. I feel good about myself because I'm making progress.

Day 1... again

Mon, 27 May 2013 10:41:37 EST

Hi,
I seem to have to lose the same "beginning" weight over and over again.
I've promised myself this is day one again, and that i am thankful that i have another day to begin anew. I am writing this as i've never really used the message boards in earnest. I'm making small changes that will hopefull "stick" and help with the weight loss and hopefully the message boards will help too. Please, Please , Please if you can spare a few minutes to offer motivation, it would be apprec...

Motivation

Mon, 27 May 2013 00:04:48 EST

What can you do to keeps you motivated?

Obese

Sun, 26 May 2013 22:44:15 EST

I went to my doctor the other day and she told me I'm obese and she wants me to start exercising and seeing a dietitian.I hate myself because of this. I'm 5 feet tall and weigh 170. A lot has to do with medication that I am on. I cry a lot because of this.
I need all the support I can get right now.

Day 3 is my Achilles heel

Sun, 26 May 2013 15:18:48 EST

I've had a thousand successful "Day 1's" but Day 3 is really what gets me. It's the day when the voices creep into my head and start talking about how my muscles are a little sore so maybe I should rest them, or that I don't want to get bored with the workout routine so maybe I should just go for a short walk instead, or that everybody deserves a cheat day now and then so let's just order a pizza!

I know that I am essentially trying to break a bad habit (well 2, actually--bad food...

just need to get going

Sun, 26 May 2013 15:00:09 EST

Im in a slump. I want out of the quik sand. I started to take garcinea cambosia about a week ago. I need this fat off me

busting butt and being strict and no results

Sun, 26 May 2013 11:24:49 EST

Hi everyone, my name is Annette and I am 51 years old. I am trying real hard not to get frustrated here. I have been doing everything I am supposed to do according to Spark. My calorie intake, my fat intake and my proteins and carbs... Sometimes I am low on calories or carbs but not too often. I am getting tired of busting my ass following everything to a tee and not seeing results of any kind. Not just on the scale. I work out at the very least 4 times a week and usually burn 500 calori...

TODAY'S, DID YOU KNOW?

Sun, 26 May 2013 07:45:48 EST

5/26
Some of us have witnessed the death of our dreams. We have watched as life has altered the plans and dreams of our youth. But, I think if we will take the time to look at all the Lord has done through our life, we will see that He had something far better in mind for us than we could have ever dreamed up on our own. God always has the best plan! DID YOU KNOW? HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY! For more details on scriptures, story and lesson, read today’s “FOLLOWING IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF FAI...

Something is wrong

Sat, 25 May 2013 11:48:00 EST

I don't know what it is but lately I been down in the dumps and not wanting to do anything I will either eat alot of bad things or not eat all and barely work out if at all. I was doing so good I was walking everyday and eating healthy specially when going out now i gained 6 pounds in a week what is going on. i need help staying on track... today I am back on track hopefully can stay on here on out. any tips to starting back when feel like crap about yourself and anyone been like this? and an...

I'm new and I'm looking for encouragement

Fri, 24 May 2013 11:48:10 EST

I am motivated but I've been here before and always fail. I don't want to go back. I want to be free from these shackles and my self hatred.

Wits End

Fri, 24 May 2013 10:15:02 EST

For years I have struggled with my weight (most of my life really) but I've reached a point that I'm going to loose my mind but apparently not the weight.

Despite never go over 2000 cals a day (5'4" & now 190lbs), I'm gaining weight. 10lbs in 2 months. Definitely not preggers (tubes tied 3 years ago), and I exercise daily. Haven't been able to loose anything in almost 6 months, and now i'm gaining, despite increasing my activity level w/ my new job. Before that, I'd have to...

I'm motivated to lose it, but...

Fri, 24 May 2013 08:54:54 EST

I started up an exercise plan with my fiance literally a month ago. In the first week it said 5lbs lost, fluctuated, week 3 said 8lbs lost, but today it said I gained all +3 lbs back? I'm also not seeing it in my clothes and we're trying for 1300 calorie minimum a day and 1200mg sodium of most... We exercise 3 or 4 days a week and have a 2 day break. I call it the 5day4Week cycle. Exercises vary from each day and week and they never start up on same days. Start Wednesday and week 2 starts Mo...

WHAT ARE YOU DOING MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND !!!

Fri, 24 May 2013 02:37:55 EST

I'll get up usual 12 am and 402 till 3:30 am and 311 till 5 am. Saturday & Sunday volunteering at Rochester Community House for 232 Memorial Day Pancake Breakfast. from 8:30 am to 11:30 am ( no pancakes for me. Have a good weekend and watch the calories.

Rewards System

Thu, 23 May 2013 18:42:48 EST

I posted a section of this in WOOHOO but got a sparkmail that said people floating about in this board might find it useful. So I'll add to it here.

I'm celebrating a spark of brilliance that hit me in the face like a lightening bolt - the new rewards system my husband and I designed to help us stick to our eating plans. This reward system revolves around 3 different categories: days in a row we haven't eaten out, days in a row that we tracked calories and stuck within the range re...

Stupid OCD..

Thu, 23 May 2013 17:54:27 EST

I want to see if I'm alonen this, it bothers me to start a diet any time other than the beginning of the month, especially on this site because it shows the monthly calendar and it makes me feel guilty if only half the month is filled out, whereas if it's the beginning of the month I don't get the anxiety that I've given up my diet before.. anyone else?

Post Race/Goal Motivation

Thu, 23 May 2013 17:26:46 EST

Hi all,

After my 10k on Saturday I've felt really low and unmotivated. I took a couple days off to recuperate and now I am having trouble regaining my motivation and verve. I've heard of post race blues but I feel sluggish as well as really down. Any tips on changing that - you know beyond just sucking it up and getting back out there as both my runs this week haven't done the trick.

Frustrating weight fluctuation

Thu, 23 May 2013 15:03:28 EST

I've been actively trying to lose weight for the past 2-3 months, and while I'm definitely making some progress overall, the pattern that's showing up on the scale is really frustrating me. It seems to go like this: I appear to gradually gain weight over the course of about three to three and a half weeks, and then over the course of the following few days, I drop 2-3+ lbs. I know this isn't what's actually happening, but it's very frustrating to only see my weight loss reflected on the scale...

2 lbs per week??

Thu, 23 May 2013 14:34:09 EST

When I started my journey @ 259 I was losing on average 3 lbs a week. I have lost 51 lbs and I am ecstatic about that. I am losing 1 lb per week now. I know that when you get smaller it becomes more difficult to lose weight and 1-2 lbs per week is excellent. I still have over 65 lbs to lose so is it realistic to lose 2 lbs per week? That is my goal until I am under 190. If it is possible how do I do that? I am staying within my calorie range and I am getting exercise. I could definitely amp u...

Frustrated & ready to give up

Thu, 23 May 2013 09:10:14 EST

I always try to eat healthy but started January 1st to try harder and loose a little weight. I only want to lose about 10 pounds and can't do that. Joined a gym on April 24th to hopefully do better on exercising. I go 3 to 4 days a week. Doing 30 minutes on elliptical and 1 hour on weight machines. I'm 62 years old. In this month I have gained 2 pounds and see no change in body composition. Measurements are the same. I know this isn't a long time but was hoping to see just a little change. ...

Slipped and can't get up

Thu, 23 May 2013 08:08:02 EST

I really don't like talking negative talks, but not sure where else to vent my feelings.

For a few months now I slipped back into my old habits and gained a lot of weight back. Once again I am back at the self pity, self hate. I don't want to feel this way. I don't even want to see friends or go anywhere anymore.

How do I get up after a slip? How do I stop this cycle?

I am normally the one to tell someone just stop feel sorry for yourself and get real, but now...

How do you stay motivated? Feeling discouraged

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:10:11 EST

If I could see results, I'd feel motivated.
I feel like I am in a constant state of depriving myself of things that make me feel good (food) while pushing myself to do things that feel bad (excercise). Why does being healthy have to be so hard and miserable?
It is such a struggle each day. Its depressing and not fun. How do you stay motivated? The only thing I can do to keep going is look in the mirror and bad talk myself and pick apart all my flaws. This doesn't seem healthy eith...

Am I Psycho?....Or Just a Female?

Wed, 22 May 2013 20:52:24 EST

I know I have major body issues. However, lately it's all I can think about. I obsess over my eating plan and will stick to it for 3 days perfectly and then have an off night (tonight, for instance, when I went out for dinner with my mom) and get super (duper) depressed and just dwell on it and how fat I'm getting. My husband can tell me 1,000 times how beautiful I am but all I see is chunk and lack of control. I hate this cycle. I seriously do NOT know what to do next.
Background: in 2...

self-sabotage for mental health

Wed, 22 May 2013 17:54:31 EST

I feel like what I am about to start is self-sabotage to me for me my mental health. Long story short is that I need to seriously have the medications I am on for my mental health adjusted. This is not something that I am looking forward to. I am doing this so I can find what works best for me with minimal side effects and the best results.

I have been very happy and looking forward to summer to work on my physical health. Sudden depressive episodes, anxiety and mood issues that ar...

resistance

Wed, 22 May 2013 05:36:44 EST

How can I resist reaching for the candy bar etc. etc. 46 that seems to be calling out my name.I try hard to resist but its very hard when I get hungury to eat the wrong foods to stop the hunger pains. After I eat the sweet I get mad at myself for giving in and tell myself no. of course by then its to late as I have already eaten the food that I wasn't going to eat!

No will power...........help

Tue, 21 May 2013 22:27:29 EST

I'm reached the point of crying because I have no will power anymore. I've been gaining weight because I'm in menopause. No amount of exercise and diet is helping, which makes me that more depressed. I lost 50 pounds a few years ago and now over half of it has returned. I'm tired of constantly worrying about it..................any advice???

Sore....tired

Tue, 21 May 2013 12:59:22 EST

I have a love hate relationship with the soreness I get from working out. I like it because I feel like I've done good enough to feel it, yet not so bad about that I hurt myself majorly. The problem is I feel it just zaps my energy. I push myself to go out to the gym, but there are times I'm just like "I'm too tired....too sore...." and I don't think it's every going to get better. I think I can get over the sore issue....but tired. I hate feeling tired. :(

Any boosts/suggest...

The power of maintaining streaks

Tue, 21 May 2013 09:58:02 EST

There are some streaks I'm really good at maintaining - logging into SparkPeople to get my Spark Points, practicing Spanish for 5 minutes daily on my Duolingo app for iphone, and now I'm starting day 7 Binge Free!

But sometimes these longer streaks make me anxious... And taking 5 minutes for Spanish practice or 2 minutes to log into spark is very different from maintaining 24 hours of constant food vigilance. I feel like I have more to lose! Anybody feel the same way?

My goal

Tue, 21 May 2013 08:54:43 EST

My ultimate goal is getting to 150 lbs. That is going to take a while, but I'll get there. I want to drop a few more dress sizes before October. I am going to be buying my wedding dress around than for my Halloween wedding. The smaller my size the more dresses I will have to pick from.

Consistency is Paying Off

Tue, 21 May 2013 06:28:49 EST

I have never been a consistent person. I am an artistic, free spirit that tends to fly by the seat of my pants. And I slowly flew to being over 80 pounds overweight. Thankfully, I found SparkPeople. I think there are several good weight loss programs. You just have to find the system that works for you, and I have found it. I started in January. I purchased SparkCoach because I knew I needed something consistent to do each day...and I have been faithfully logging. I am currently 38 pounds lig...

The pill & weight fluctuation - thoughts?

Tue, 21 May 2013 03:13:11 EST

Hopefully this is the right board - I wasn't really sure where this would fit!

I currently take hormonal birth control (TriNessa, a generic brand of Ortho Tri Cyclen); I use the 28-day version. I've noticed that I generally seem to gradually gain weight (according to the scale, at least) between approximately days 3-26 of the pack, and then drop 2-3+ lbs over the course of the remaining days, with my lowest weight generally occurring on around the first or second day of beginning a...

So Dejected-- it's all I think about

Tue, 21 May 2013 01:03:56 EST

I hate to be whiny, but I just needed to write some things out and see if there was any chance for support.

I'm really struggling right now. In the summer/fall of 2012, I lost 20 lbs the healthy way, and I was SO happy. I loved my new lifestyle, and I woke up every day energized and motivated to eat clean and work out. It was so great.

But then my binge eating disorder came back, and it controlled me. From about December until now, I binged at least 2-3 times each week....

Losing inches but no pounds.

Mon, 20 May 2013 20:01:19 EST

I'm losing inches I just wanted to know how long will it be before I see the scale go down?

Initial Excitement has worn off.

Mon, 20 May 2013 18:37:08 EST

You know that excitement when you start working out? Well I am a week in and that has worn off now. Do you have any tips for staying motivated?

Accountability??

Mon, 20 May 2013 11:23:53 EST

Anyone interested in being accountability partners online?

I'm 27, in South Jersey, looking for the last 15 REAL pounds

Menu Plan Success

Mon, 20 May 2013 10:13:26 EST

I've been following the menu plan in the Spark Solution book this week ... with a few modifications. They really pack in the vegetables which is awesome. It also means I get to eat a lot more food since those vegetables are not very high in calories. The other day an interesting thing happened. I was eating my planned lunch and I realized I was full before I finished eating my lunch. What??? Aren't I usually feeling hungry when I watch what I eat?

Well, I wrapped up the rest of my...

Begin Again

Mon, 20 May 2013 05:01:49 EST

When I started my weight loss, I had hoped I wouldn't set myself up for failure. Somehow, I managed to do just that. In my circle of influence I have someone who brings me down emotionally and I tend to turn to food when that happens and it happens quite frequently. Although they tell me they are behind me 100%, that's only when it suits them.
So today, I will Being Again and do what I need to do for myself instead of putting my hopes and dreams in someone who does not believe in me. ...

Need help staying motivated

Sun, 19 May 2013 22:43:02 EST

Hello ,
I am a mother of two teenagers. My son is 16 & daughter they are home schooled so all my meals are kid based for them. I want to show them that healthy food can taste good too. But I have one other factor that hurt me too I am a Diabetic and on as of now 57 units of Lantus which is a type of insulin for some of you that don't know. There are times that I am not hungry ever and then there are times that I feel like I am never full. I just can seem to kick the weight. Now I am get ...

Trying to Stay Motivated when is it easy

Sun, 19 May 2013 22:39:23 EST

I am the type of person who needs instant gratification. So with that said, exercising is never easy for me. I want to become healthier and tone my body. But I definitely need my support team to remind me that nothing happens overnight.

Baking without eating it all!!

Sun, 19 May 2013 18:16:33 EST

I like to make cakes and have a few birthday and graduation cakes to make this week for family. How do you get thru it without eating all that amazing frosting? Who knew crisco, butter and powder sugar could taste like heaven!! But seriously, this is the frosting that I want to use on the cake and I don't want to give up cake decorating, but it is so hard to get thru decorating without indulging. And once I get a taste it is over. I find it easier to not any at all! Suggestions? Motivat...

Is my lack of patience de motivational?

Sun, 19 May 2013 15:47:39 EST

Im always in this loop where im losing like 2 lbs a week, which is good, however i always get to around 4-6lbs lost and then realise a whole month has gone and i really want to lose stones and stones that it actually puts me off losing weight because it just seems so daunting!

Does anyone else get this??
I know its all about baby steps but ive always made my decicions in life by looking at the bigger picture.
Does anyone know how to over come this?
This is literally ...

What did you do to finally start your journey?

Sun, 19 May 2013 05:45:49 EST

I just can't seem to make myself motivated to do the work. I don't WANT to change my diet, but I keep gaining weight... I don't know how to make myself want to do the work to get the outcome...

Laid off and Struggling to Stay Motivated

Sat, 18 May 2013 15:41:59 EST

In February I was laid off and spent most of February and March looking for work. Things were going well and I had lots of hits for jobs. I had three really good prospects and felt really good about getting an offer from one of them. During that time another employer offered me a job which meant I could start right away as I waited for one of the others. I went to work for this company on April 1st which was also my birthday. During the time I was out of work I did really good with losin...

Heart disease

Fri, 17 May 2013 17:13:17 EST

I am scared I was told I have to lose the weight or my heart will get worse . I already have
angina and my doctor warned me to lose weight or .......I am scared and need help

See how you'll look when you've lost weight!

Fri, 17 May 2013 15:48:07 EST

I don't know if this has been posted before but just in case it hasn't thought I'd share.

Basically you load your own photo up, add your weight and height at the top of the page and then more the slider down on the left hand side to see how much you've changed.

http://makeovr.com/weightmirror/

No idea how accurate it is but I've lost 70 lbs in the last 5 minutes :-)

Enjoy

Perseverance in the face of stubborn poundage

Fri, 17 May 2013 13:07:32 EST

How do you keep yourself going and feeling positive when you just can't lose weight? What keeps you from throwing up your hands in exasperation and heading for your favorite junk food or skipping that workout?

Motivation and Self Esteem tips needed

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:28:49 EST

I feel like I would NEVER to be able to reach my goal ever. What can I do to not feel that way?

Serving Sizes and Cost of Food

Fri, 17 May 2013 05:34:01 EST

I often thought that eating healthier would be more expensive, you know, fresh veggies and fruits, healthier dinners than the $1.00 banquet meals, but I've noticed that actually using serving sizes and not eating a box of cereal in two sittings really makes a difference in my food bills. I really started watching what i'[ve been eating in the past two weeks, eating healthier and fresher foods, I haven't even used my microwave in about a week, I haven't bought any diet pop and cut down on fast...

Wow I'm glad we're back on !!

Fri, 17 May 2013 02:44:00 EST

Couldn't start my day with all of you.

trying to get back on track

Thu, 16 May 2013 11:47:52 EST

So I have fallen way off track in the last year. There has been so much going on an a lot of stress. I way in my senior year of college (which I just finished and graduated from), we bought a new house (that was a process and a half lol), my oldest daughter started kindergarten( and it hasn't been everything i had hoped for)... so as you can see a lot going on... from years of up and down weight I know stress is a big trigger for me. I eat when I am stressed and lowing my stress is something ...

What time did you wake up this morning ?

Thu, 16 May 2013 02:41:11 EST

Got up t 12:25 am

Did you walk in the "sunshine " today ???

Wed, 15 May 2013 20:14:02 EST

Here in Rochester Hill's, MI it was 86 degree's. What was it like where you live ?

visual ways to track your weight

Wed, 15 May 2013 19:08:39 EST

Put a marble in a container for each pound you are going to lose. Each time you lose a pound transfer a marble to another container beside it. Also, make a paperclip chain for each pound you lose and put it on the refrigerator handle to see how far you have come before opening the door to just look.

Share your Goals

Wed, 15 May 2013 13:16:26 EST

Today's Spark Coach was talking about sharing your goals. By sending them out into the sparkosphere, it bolsters your committment and accountability. So here are my personal goals:

1. Follow the Spark Solution for two weeks
2. Add some additional flexibilitiy training and stretching to my fitness routine
3. Continue to drink 8-10 glasses of water per day
4. Take the extra time to pre-plan - pack my gym back ahead of time, prepare food ahead of time, etc.
...

I am scared I won't stay motivated

Tue, 14 May 2013 22:47:00 EST

I have just started this diet today. and I have 75 pounds to loose. I have never been one to stick with a diet plan but this time I have to. I am sick of not feeling like doing anything but lazing around. I want to be able to run outside with my daughter and nephew. I want my daughter to see that I am not a failure and that I can do this.

Help! I was sleeping well, and now...

Tue, 14 May 2013 14:38:47 EST

I was getting 7-10 hours of sleep a day for the past month. It was part of my life change and taking care of me. The past 2 nights I haven't slept more than 4 hours. It's NOT from lack of trying.

I'm going to bed between 11 pm and midnight. I lay awake in the dark for 3-4 hours and don't manage to fall asleep until between 3-5 am. I'm exhausted, grumpy, and it's harder and harder to find my motivation to exercise.

I've exercised almost daily for a month! I can't stop n...

I Am Happy

Tue, 14 May 2013 11:49:10 EST

I am feeling good about myself this day (God is good)

Motivation Monday!

Mon, 13 May 2013 15:17:46 EST

Just curious. . . What motivates you? Is it motivational quotes, images, music? Please share!

*** 386

“Mistakes are the portals of discovery.” ~ James Joyce

“It is never too late —in fiction or in life— to revise.” ~ Nancy Thayer

“Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.” ~ Jim Ryun

I'm not doing this alone!!!

Mon, 13 May 2013 14:01:44 EST

Almost one month ago, I started going to Overeaters Anonymous (OA) meetings. Surprisingly, the meetings aren't just for overeaters, but for anyone with an eating disorder - overeating, bulimia, anorexia, body dysmorphic disorder, ect.

Simultaneously, I started listening to The Spark audiobook on my commute to work. I have an hour commute in the morning. I've listened to the book I believe about 3 times already, as I'm trying to drive home the principles of the spark program. ...

How to stay motivated while extremely stressed

Mon, 13 May 2013 12:57:54 EST

My name is taelor I'm semi new to this site and have been doing ok sometimes when it comes to tracking my food and fitness. I have been scheduled for a lumpectomy on Wednesday and I'm not doing well with the whole staying motivated and staying on track. I guess its the stress i even broke down and drank a soda after it had been about 2.5 months since the last one. my question is how in the world do I stay motivated and on track with this in my way?? I really want to feel good by loosing weigh...

Almost There!

Mon, 13 May 2013 10:54:03 EST

My goal is to get to 220 by June 1 ... and I only have 5 more pounds to lose! I started at 264 on January 10 (my birthday) and have dropped almost 40 pounds in 5 1/2 months. I need help, though, getting those last 5 gone - lots of celebrations in May - birthdays, Mother's Day (blew it yesterday eating out) and events working to pull me off track. Any suggestions?

plateau scare

Mon, 13 May 2013 07:15:32 EST

I know this plateau thing exists but I've been wondering how to break past it in my weight loss programme.....cause I hear that's when people give up on their plans the most. Please help!!!

Have I ( Grandma Franny ) motivated You ???

Mon, 13 May 2013 05:44:55 EST

I have been with SparkPeople since Sep. 2012 and have answered a lot of post's and tried to motivate all of you. I would like to hear from some of you. Thank You.

Positive weightloss

Mon, 13 May 2013 02:03:54 EST

Hi everyone!

Except for actually losing weight, being a size smaller, what is the highlight and the best change that has happened to you due to your weightloss?

For me, I can finally walk up the flight of stairs leading up to my apartment without feeling like I'm about to die.

I need help

Sun, 12 May 2013 16:57:41 EST

I am having trouble getting to stay motivated, there are days I do good and then back to old habits, HELP. One thing I do is try to keep my mind focused on working on craft projects but then arthritus kicks in and then OH OH eating help me please give me ideas.

Thank You

Dawn

New diagnosis

Sun, 12 May 2013 13:59:42 EST

My doctor recently told me that I am gluten intolerant. Apparently more and more people are becoming this way. I was shocked at first that eating things like bread and pasta (which we eat a lot of in my house) could be causing so much damage to my insides. Although, the symptoms explain so much of my health issues. So in order to "cure" myself I have to give up any food containing gluten. I know it may not seem that hard to do, however, my husband does not seem to be taking this too ser...

Goal

Sun, 12 May 2013 13:35:16 EST

My goal is to reach my goal and maintain!!!

Happy Mother's Day to me!

Sun, 12 May 2013 08:26:21 EST

So many things to be thankful for. 2 wonderful, successful daughters who have taken such good care of me since their dad died almost 2 years ago. Starting to enjoy a new life and the early stages of a possible new relationship. 2 delightful grands that brighten any day!

And, last, but certainly not least, a big goal of Maintenence achieved today. I left for a 3 week vacation (that included a weeks cruise) at my goal weight of 129 pounds. This was the first big test of staying i...

I am afraid I am having a MAJOR danger

Sun, 12 May 2013 03:46:26 EST

My cat has disappeared and now I can't sleep and I am worrying and all I keep thinking about is FOOD - I KNOW THAT WILL NOT HELP - BUT the thoughts are there and it is a good thing I don't have a lot of junk food handy. I weathered Helen's (my stepmother) hospital stay without resorting to crazy eating behaviors. I WILL weather this storm too, but right now, in the middle of the night, I am almost shaking with wanting to pigout.

The Real Limiting Factor in Weight Loss (Physics)

Sun, 12 May 2013 03:21:20 EST

Hello All,

This is my first post and I wanted to make it about something interesting. First off I'd like to say that I love this website and all of its resources. I've already been able to love 5 lbs as a result of the tools here, but it dawned on me the other day that from a physical perspective I really didn't know where the weight went. So I did some research.

As it turned out I found that one of the major limiting factors in weight loss is actually the removal of Car...

18yo looking for a buddy or two

Sun, 12 May 2013 02:41:23 EST

Hey :) My name is Meredith, I'm 18, 200 Lbs. with a goal of 120 Lbs.
I would really love a buddy to text with.
It just seems so.. hopeless without someone to keep you motivated.
i have worked at weight loss my whole life and always end up in the same pattern. I do really good for about a month, lose around 15 lbs, go on a binge, then become to unmotivated to continue. That's when I really need someone to turn to. My weight is taking over my life. i have a beach trip coming ...

Gaining weight while on Weight Watchers?

Sun, 12 May 2013 01:48:09 EST

I have been struggling to loose this weight for the last 8 months(baby is 8 months old). Within a week or two after delivering I had dropped down to about 167 which is 5 pounds smaller than what I was when I got pregnant. Of course over the next few weeks with the stress of having a newborn I stopped loosing and put on about 5 pounds. After the holidays weight was creeping back up and I joined Weight Watchers in January and have been doing that since. I am embarrassed to say that after doing ...

R U discovering Values of today and tomrrow

Sat, 11 May 2013 12:15:51 EST

Learned that you have avoid "yesterday" life and when you are ready to learn from it then go back to make changes of your values of today.

How do you stay motivated on the weekends?

Sat, 11 May 2013 11:49:55 EST

I am a stay at home mom I have a lot of trouble staying motivated when my kids get home from school and on the weekends. I start my days the same logging on to SP reading motivational stories and I feel wide awake until I see that one of my children are awake then I feel instantly zapped of all energy I had. I need a way to stay focused when my kids are around.

Happy Mother's Day, Ahead of Time !!!

Fri, 10 May 2013 19:23:33 EST

Did not want to forget All of You and our "Mom's " who have passed. I wish You all the best and watch the food that will tempt You. We have a job to do to keep what we have to do to stay healthy and not mess our goal up. We have to do our best. So also this for all of you 214 . There is no white rose for the passing of Mom but the thought is there. God Bless You All.

A little lost

Fri, 10 May 2013 10:03:10 EST

When I was homeschooled in high school, I did all of my work easily and was really self-disciplined. Now that I'm an adult with a family, working fulltime, I've found that procrastination has found it's way into my nursing school life. This summer, I want to get back into a healthy lifestyle. I've read up on tips and gotten some advice from people. But have any of you ever felt like "Ahh, I don't know what I'm doing! Can't someone just tell me everything to do, how to do it and when to d...

losing exercise partner

Fri, 10 May 2013 09:06:27 EST

my friend who has been going to the gym with me for a long time is moving next month to another state and I have no one to exercise. I need to know how I can keep motivated in going even though I will be on my own and exercise is very important to me.

Losing motivation

Fri, 10 May 2013 07:15:24 EST

It's been 2 weeks since I started my new lifestyle and the past couple days, today more so, I've lost all motivation. I've sat and remembered why I'm doing it and looked at my inspiration but to no avail. I'm just tired and can't be bothered now.

Breath of Life

Fri, 10 May 2013 00:40:44 EST

Hello,

Spark Guy encouraged me to share my goals with someone so I decided to share them with you. I just was accepted into the Breath of Life Archival Institute of Indigenous Languages where I will be going in June to Washington DC search the archives of the Library of Congress and the Smithsonian Institute for my tribe's languages Mahican and Munsee.I am morbidly obese and physically disabled. My goals are to drink only water and give up soda which I have been successful so far ...

I would like a motivation friend!! :)

Thu, 9 May 2013 18:36:05 EST

I've tried so many times to eat healthy and keep on an exercise plan, but I always give up because I have nobody motivating me and supporting me.
I'd like a friend to push me and help me do my best.

Points for SparkBlogs

Thu, 9 May 2013 17:15:38 EST

One way I stay motivated is to get all my SparkPoints each day. Overall, using SparkPoints has done more than just motivate me; I've learned a lot too. I do pretty well on the Trivia and Quizzes because of all I've learned from reading the articles and blogs.

Lately, I've been reading blogs I know I've never read before but the icon at the bottom says I have. What's up with that? It is frustrating to say the least. I'm coming up short on my daily points because I can't read the 2 b...

Really struggling- could use some advice

Thu, 9 May 2013 15:23:35 EST

I tracked my food for quite a few months on SP and didn't lose weight. None.

I think part of my problem is getting busy and then tracking food from memory later. I tried tracking on my phone, but it was so slow it took me forever. How do you keep on top of tracking calories accurately? I'm sure that I would underestimate portions or forget things I ate because I was tracking from memory a lot.

I tried a non- tracking program for awhile where you eat super healthy but ...

How long did it take for you to loose weight ??

Thu, 9 May 2013 11:47:25 EST

How long did it take for you to loose weight, after you signed up with Sparkpeople?

I signed up like 1 1/2 weeks ago and today i weight myself, i did not loose nor did i gain any weight. I don't know if i should be happy about it or not. Maybe i also should start measuring myself to see if i loose any inches.

WOO HOO!!!!

Thu, 9 May 2013 10:58:42 EST

DOWN 2 POUNDS!!!! Not much but still some progress!! ;)

What do you look for in a Diet Buddy?

Thu, 9 May 2013 05:23:47 EST

Exactly that - what do you look for in a diet buddy?

Is it someone who has the same amount of weight to lose? Someone who is in your area? Someone you get on well with - what?

My diet buddy from my old website yo-yos like crazy, thinks exercise videos are something you watch whilst sipping a glass of wine and that she really can live on granola bars all day :-)

Honestly we are so different in our approach to losing weight it's amazing either of us have gotte...

What is important to you today(other than weight)?

Thu, 9 May 2013 00:34:08 EST

For me it's to change what isn't working for me and to enjoy and cherish each moment of the day.

How do you stay motivated for the long haul?

Thu, 9 May 2013 00:32:25 EST

I've restarted this healthy journey dozens of time. And when I restart I'm full of motivation. I'm bursting at the seams with it.... And slowly its gone and I forgot it was even there! How do you hold on to your motivation? I don't want to restart another time. I want this time to stick!

Advice please

Wed, 8 May 2013 23:33:13 EST

I am working out 4-6 days a week doing a couch to 5k program, yoga and weight/strength training. I also have been eating right and staying within my caloric goals. it's been 4 weeks and I have only lost 4 pounds. WHAT THE WORLD? Any advice?

66 days in & still motivated! I could go forever!

Wed, 8 May 2013 23:24:53 EST

Over the past 66 days of p90x (and 15lbs/12 inches ago), I have discovered some really awesome tips for staying motivated.

First and foremost, the BIGGEST key to my success so far has been finding a workout program that I LOVE! That's saying a lot for me. I was the kid in P.E. who would walk the mile and start crying during track season to try and get out of having to do it. Basically, I had always loathed fitness and exercise. Until now! I FINALLY realized that I don't have to be ...

Looking for a motivational fitness/nutrition buddy

Wed, 8 May 2013 19:43:00 EST

I am:
-19 year old female
-trying to lose ~20 pounds
-incoming sophomore in college
-restarting my goals of fitness and nutrition after coming home from college (I was lazy and too committed to my school work to care about anything else at the time)
-I really love to sing and act, and my favorite activity is biking!

If anyone would like to be a motivational buddy with me, just message me!

Staying Motivated????

Wed, 8 May 2013 14:02:41 EST

Anyone have good ideas for staying motivated when you are the only person willing to diet or consider different food choices in your home??

motivation

Tue, 7 May 2013 19:44:52 EST

I'm 46 years old and having trouble to start. I have been saying for months I'm going to something about my weight and to date i have not lost a pound. I don't know how to get motivated.

Need Help Breaking a Bad Pattern

Tue, 7 May 2013 12:08:34 EST

Hey All. So Yay, I have hit maintenance, and I am doing pretty well. That aside, I am still consistently having a lose control eat fest once or twice a week. I make up for it by being super strict for the day or two after, but still, that's not a way to live. I want to get to the point where I basically eat normally all week long. I know what some of my triggers are, like getting over hungry or stressed, or feeling really tired. Would appreciate to hear any feedback!

Not getting any results!

Tue, 7 May 2013 11:49:16 EST

Hi! I'm having a lot of trouble losing weight. I always have the same problem and get stuck at the same plateau. In January I started eating healthier after a two month backslide, and I lost 10 lbs by mid-February with very little effort. Since then I have lost only 2 lbs. It's so frustrating!

I track everything I put in my mouth, I eat 1500 calories a day. I eat tons of fruit and veggies because I am always hungry and I feel that I get more food for the calories that way. ...

Completely overwhelmed

Tue, 7 May 2013 08:59:38 EST

Life is really insane right now. I just had confirmation for my son, my daughter is graduating in 2 weeks and I'm trying to plan the party, two boys are playing baseball and one is playing rugby, hubby is out of town for 2 weeks, and work is crazy busy as well. Needless to say, I haven't exercised in over a week and have been eating way more than I should for my calorie range. I can't focus on yet another thing. What does one do when life is this crazy?

Help! Pain leading to munchies!

Tue, 7 May 2013 00:05:06 EST

I've been doing great with both exercise and nutrition until the last few days. Back and joint pain is always an issue, but I've been able to keep it from getting too bad to exercise by doing special back exercises that keep the pain manageable. But the last few days have been so bad, I've not been able to exercise, and I find myself overeating at the same time. Bad combination! I don't want to gain back the weight I have already lost. I want to keep on losing. I think the over-eating i...

Eating Disorder Help!?

Mon, 6 May 2013 16:14:37 EST

I feel so lost, I'm sorry this will be long. I was anorexic/obsessively exercising from the time I was 10 until I was 20, then I was hospitalized for ~5 months. Since then I have had a lot of issues with binging. I also have OCD which makes recovery a lot harder. I'll be 22 on Wednesday. I've been trying to lose some of the binge weight so I've been doing crossfit 3 times a week and going on short walks with my dog/stretching on my days off. I eat about 1200 calories on my rest days and 1400...

Help me get motivated and encouraged

Mon, 6 May 2013 15:41:38 EST

I have a big event in a month, one month exactly. I'm at 220 lbs and 21% body fat. I look myself in the mirror and don't feel TOO bad, but know I can lose in some areas. I actually uploaded pictures today and would love some thoughts. My diet is ok, could always improve, but it's not horrible. I also lift weights about 4 times a week for about an 45-60 minutes. My cardio isn't that good, so I'm wondering how much cardio one needs to stay fit and lose weight. I know it's mostly diet, but I'm a...

Motivation when sick

Mon, 6 May 2013 12:08:10 EST

I have a severe sinus infection and haven't had any motivation since the 1st. I'm still journaling but no physical activity. Anyone have any advice?

Good Morning SparkPeople !!!

Mon, 6 May 2013 05:26:12 EST

Yes, I was motivated at 12:05 am until 5:15 am and now I am 198 . Had some 274 and now to 102 . have a Good Day. Write more later !!!

cycling vs walking calories

Mon, 6 May 2013 04:37:13 EST

Having just got on my bike again and being very unfit (again), I wondered what's burning more calories for ME - cycling 2.75 miles (in about 20 mins) or walking 2 miles (40 mins). Spark gave me far fewer calories for cycling even though at the end of the ride I was breathing heavily and sweating whereas I feel no signs of exertion with the walking I could walk/hike for miles and miles before developing my achilles problem (which is being treated and expected to improve in the next 3 months)....

Can't seem to get motivated

Mon, 6 May 2013 02:11:41 EST

I've never posted in here before, but for some reason I figured hey why not maybe this will help! I currently work a job where I put in 12 hour night shifts and I'm having the hardest time getting back to working out... I have a 2 year old and a newborn at home as well, so I'm sort of strapped for time.
Just for some background, I played college football in 2006, I ran track in college, I've run 2 marathons and numerous half marathons as well as a few hundred shorter distance races.

Exercising when ill

Mon, 6 May 2013 01:15:45 EST

How do you stay motivated to exercise while not feeling well?

Determined to Lose 10lbs in May

Sun, 5 May 2013 23:43:27 EST

Hi Folks,
Some of us have really enjoyed the past threads on challenging each other, encouraging each other, and checking in as we work on our weight loss goals of trying to lose 10lbs. For some of us, that really means in a month...for some of us...its a long term, slower loss.
You are welcome to join in anytime!! I think most of us plan to post once a week, but you are free to set your own rules I believe....
May this be your last weight loss journey, and a s...

Lost with no direction

Sun, 5 May 2013 23:01:40 EST

I've been at an impasse with weight loss for nearly two years, and now the pounds are slowly starting to go up again, and I feel absolutely powerless to stop it. I know all the things I'm supposed to be doing, but can't seem to get my act together. It's depressing and emotionally rough, and I'm at my wit's end with myself -- I keep asking myself why I can't get it together and do what I know I need to do.

I don't want to regain the 60+ lbs I've lost, but I know I'm heading in that...

Resisting cravings

Sun, 5 May 2013 19:10:15 EST

I am fighting some fierce cravings for cheez its and poptarts right now! I already have my dinner and dessert planned, and it doesn't involve those foods! In fact, I set a goal for myself to completely avoid any white breads and starches for the entire month of May! I have been successful so far, and even said 'no' to chocolate cake yesterday at a family gathering. I think the only thing keeping me from eating right now is knowing how silly I'd feel giving in today after toughing it out yest...

A complicated situation

Sun, 5 May 2013 13:52:00 EST

So last time i was here, i was at around 175. now im just shy of 200. I moved into a new city, started college, and got hitched. And now i find myself in a strange mentality. I kinda dont wana lose the weight. At least, not all of it.
By the BMI im technically obese at this point, but im more comfterable in my own skin now. ive always liked bigger girls so, despite being a guy, maybe that like has been internalized. Another reason i dont wana lose weight is how im figured now. I have alw...

How to motivate my family?

Sun, 5 May 2013 09:40:49 EST

We will be visiting our son and wife and 4 DGK in a few weeks for about 5 days. The adults are in their 40s and obese. I am worried about them.

I put SP on Pinterest and FB from time to time. Would it be OK if I took them the book "The Spark"? It helped me get a real start on weight loss?

Any advice?

To The Notorious Bingers

Sun, 5 May 2013 03:36:59 EST

Well, I'll start by saying, I began my weight loss journey April 1st. I'm a binge eater, notorious emotional eater, the whole 9 yards....but honestly, I've been REALLY good about staying on track. Due to a health condition, I can't do much exercise without it inducing nausea and vomitting, so it IS a minimum thing for me. I usually pick Fridays or Saturdays (depends on the day I spend with my best friend) and use that day as a day for one cheat dinner. I'm technically allowed, according to th...

I'm not crazy

Sat, 4 May 2013 19:51:51 EST

So my weight is going crazy this weekend... I've gained 8lbs since yesterday morning, i went over calorie last night, but not more than 800 calories. (Special occasion)
I'm hoping that this is period related bloating... just taken a bit extremely
I've been pushing fluids and eating a lot of fruit today to try and even myself out again

anyway just confirm that my weight will go back to normal in a few days so i don't feel anxious 40
also, sunday is my...

Cravings!

Sat, 4 May 2013 16:16:00 EST

I've only just started my new healthier lifestyle and I'm only one week in. The past few days I've been craving junk food so badly, pizzas, burgers, mcdonalds. That's mostly thanks to tv ads! But I'm proud of myself for staying motivated and not caving in. I've not had them though I've reaaaaally wanted them! I just remembered how bloated, full and fat those few seconds of taste would make me feel. I thought about how good I've felt this week and how losing those 2 lbs makes me feel like this...

Am I eating and exercising the right amount?

Sat, 4 May 2013 13:32:16 EST

I've lost about 8lbs in the last 8 weeks. However, in the first 2 weeks I lost 5 of them, then I lost 3 more over the next 3 weeks, and none for these last two. I started off on a nutritionist-instructed "cleanse" where I was eating around 1200-1300 cals a day, and running about an hour. I was told this was too low and too much, so I moved my calories up to 1500 and exercise to only 45 minute runs, or 35 minute runs with 20 minutes of strength training. Is this too many calories, or not enoug...

Eating healthy and being organized

Sat, 4 May 2013 13:26:47 EST

I have been trying to get organized lately but have found it difficult to stick with one area at a time. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to finish something before you start another?

How to have my cake and eat it too?

Sat, 4 May 2013 12:38:10 EST

No this is not about food, it is about training and exercising. I been running fatefully to keep my heart in shape and also the rest of my body. And I am doing a pretty good job of it.
The problem I am seeing that I signed up for a Grand Fondo (it is a bicycle ride in a scenic area abut 120 to 180 km long) and now I have to train on a bicycle a lot. This will not give me much time to run also. I am afraid that giving up my running will set me back and after finishing the ride I will hav...

I gained all the weight I lost

Sat, 4 May 2013 11:36:45 EST

Yet, I am still eating bad and am not motivated at all.

One week! Picture Result

Sat, 4 May 2013 09:10:22 EST

When i broke my foot i put on a lot of weight because i couldn't walk. So that also means i got a lot of stretch marks so avoid them in this picture. But look what i've achieved in one week :)

www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_photo_gal
lery_enlarge.asp?id=4608189

Got off Track

Fri, 3 May 2013 23:22:34 EST

So Spark family.... I got off track! I lost 40 pounds and now I've gain back 5-10 :-( I am having a really hard time getting back. I don't want to gain it all back it scares me and annoys me that I can gain it back so fast any tips for getting my lazy butt up and to stop snacking. I think snacking is my biggest problem. I am working out 3-5 days a week. HELP!!!! PLEASE AND THANK YOU!

lossing friends
Fri, 3 May 2013 19:25:00 EST
So long story short 2 of my best friends (both girls) are now in a relationship don't get me wrong I am really happy for them. Sad thing is now they want nothing to do with me cause I couldn't lie and told them how I felt how I felt like I had been pushed out. I've known each of them since high school and I feel heart broken.

It's late here in the UK now. So I'm going to go to bed and hopefully tomorrow morning I will feel better. I'm just really hoping that this doesn't effe...

Depressed

Fri, 3 May 2013 14:46:47 EST

So I have been at my current job for 5 years now, so the people know me pretty well. They saw me when I was 185lbs and then when I weighed 150lbs. Unfortunately some of them watch my weight more than I do. What kills me the most is that those who are opressed for being bigger are usually the first to opress me :(

I hate it when people point stuff like that out. So the other day I ws in the lunch room eating ground beef and naan bread. That was my food from morning till dinner, and ...

weight loss before and after

Fri, 3 May 2013 13:20:17 EST

What is everyones before and after experience with weight loss? I am on my own journey and have between 60-70 pounds to lose. It has been a lot of learning so far and hoping to get to a healthy weight. I have never been in a healthy BMI for my weight in my adult life. It has been better in the past, never where a doctor or experts think it should be. That doesnt bother me, its more about getting to a healthier me and being happy being healthy. I am prettty used to being the chubby one, bigge...

so many obese

Fri, 3 May 2013 10:53:27 EST

I am really in shock with how many ppl there are in this country that are just like me OBESE..I knew I wasnt alone but, there are so many...what is wrong with us, why cant we ba a normal weight lkike other ppl we know ..it doesnt seem fare, why do I have to be so damn FAT! fat jokes get old but I still keep eating the same unhealthy foods...why?

300+ just now starting

Fri, 3 May 2013 10:48:14 EST

Hi my name is nancy. I am starting out e\]with high numbers and I need help getting started. I have been going to the gym 3 days a week., trying to skip junk food.. what else is there?..lol..Needing a weightloss buddy in the same shape as me....thank you

How do you stay motivated???

Thu, 2 May 2013 21:39:54 EST

Hi Everyone:
I am new to Spark People, this is my first week. I am new to everything --measurements, weights, calorie counting, etc. I am finding it difficult and frustrating to stay motivated with this program. Some of the food and ingredients are measured with measurements that I have never seen before -- .06 of a cup -- and I can't find a way to convert that. I had the website generate a meal plan for me, but I'm find that I'm swapping out food. Trying to find food on the ...

i need a push guys :'( or a major shove.

Thu, 2 May 2013 19:31:00 EST

So i have tried before to lose weight. I have about 60 lbs to lose now. I am so sick of being like this... i feel so bad about myself I often get depressed. I'll try and start doing good, and just go "Whats the point?" i think that i'll be like this forever. that im just a "big girl". I always shoot myself before i even try....
I look at success stories and see things like "I did it for my kids" or "i did it for my spouse" or "i did it because i was told if i didnt i would die"
We...

Why aren't my inches budging??

Thu, 2 May 2013 12:04:47 EST

My question is: Why am I not losing any inches?! I go to Curves and had my first monthly weigh in..I have lost 8 lbs. since beginning my weight loss journey last month. But I've only lost a total of 4 inches and 0% body fat!!! What is going on here? I have lost 3 lbs in the past and lost 5 inches and 5% body fat. I'm so confused! Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. 24

In need of support

Thu, 2 May 2013 11:05:11 EST

I am not doing very good. I have lost a few pounds but not as much as my Doctor and Me would like. I am a little discourage. Can't find the way to stay motivated. I just need some support now. Your words of encouragement would help a lot. I do not want to give up.

I feel worse about myself even though I'm losing?

Thu, 2 May 2013 01:41:54 EST

I lost about 75 pounds over several years, and 25 more in about the last 6 months. I'm really on a roll now that I started weight watchers (7 pounds in 3 weeks).

But it seems llke the more I focus on losing weight, the more awful I feel about myself. Like it's not good enough, not fast enough, and like I'm never going to make it to goal even though I'm only 34 pounds away.

Part of the reason is that I'm getting married in September, and even though I know my fiance loves...

Getting Sick, Getting Better, Sticking with It

Wed, 1 May 2013 20:13:56 EST

I've taken a bit of a vacation from exercise and eating right due to strep throat. Ice cream feels good on a sore throat, and so does soda (to me). I've mostly been sleeping a lot and watching TV. My whole routine, even my sleep patterns have been thrown off. This is actually kind of a big deal for me, because since starting this lifestyle overhaul a few months back I've kept my eating, exercising, drinking, cleaning, and sleeping habits tightly regulated. I'm a bit "thrown off" so to say.

Not losing any weight

Wed, 1 May 2013 11:05:15 EST

Hi All:

I started dieting and trying to get in shape about two weeks ago. I have never dieted or exercised before. I have been counting my calories and average between 1200 - 1500 calories a day. I am also trying to up my water in take to 8-10 glasses a day. Currently I am drinking about 5 glasses a day. I have also started to walk for 20 minutes 3x a week. I have no endurance so I am starting out slowly.

My issue is that I have not lost even one pound. I actually gained...

Fluctuating weight

Wed, 1 May 2013 10:48:33 EST

I have lost 48 lbs since August but the weightloss has started to slow down. I understand that the less weight you have to lose, the harder it gets but I still have 50 + lbs to lose. I am staying within my calorie range and I workout 3 or 4 times a week for 30 minutes switching between strength training & cardio. Now that the weather is nice I am walking 2 - 3 miles a day. My weight is fluctuating between 209 & 211. I only weigh myself once a week. I am having a hard time getting under 209. A...

Suggestions Needed for a Weight Loss Challenge

Wed, 1 May 2013 09:53:59 EST

A few friends and I are going to the beach in 2 months (We're all expected there the 22nd of June actually) And i want to set up a "Daily Weight Loss Challenge" in our "Beach Bound" Facebook group. I'm a size 24 so really i have the most to lose so this is mostly benefiting me as they really only have like maybe 20 lbs to lose among them... if that!
So what I'm looking for are ideas. Things that you KNOW and can prove are absolutely necessary for weight loss. IE: Drink more water, worko...

Past 6 days a fail :(

Wed, 1 May 2013 08:16:07 EST

The past 6 days I have fail on cal. goals of 1200. Went way over this week end bc sons birthday get together. But today is a new day I am GOING to stay on track.
Anyone else fail this week and determined to stay on track this week ? WE CAN DO IT 252

Long Term and Short Term Goals

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 20:40:39 EST

Hey all! I thought I'd put this question out there to see what motivates everyone! So....what are your long and short term goals? Is there something you are aiming for? Do you have a specific plan to get there?

Personally, I am aiming for two things:

1. I want to be able to do a single push up. I realize that this is a ridiculously low goal, but in my entire life, I have never been able to do a push up. I have been doing a lot of strength training and working on my upp...

More spark friends for added motivation?

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 20:25:47 EST

Hey everyone.

So, I have two great spark friends that I speak to daily, and I've found they've been great motivators in my ongoing efforts to lose weight and get healthy. I'm really looking to make more spark friends as well, but I'm finding that rather difficult to do.

It seems like many on the message boards just want to post for points or give quick tips, which are both good things! They're staying active on Spark and helping others, so no worries there. But I seem ...

Somewhat discouraged

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:49:45 EST

I'm feeling slightly discouraged.

I have been tracking what I eat, tracking calories and working out nearly every day (well, 5 days) and upped my intensity from what I would normally do (instead of just doing some walking cardio at the gym and some weights, I started the couch to 5k program with weights and then 30 minutes on the treadmill w/ incline when I'm not doing C25K). My friend is doing the same to lose pregnancy pounds.

Its been a week and shes already lost 5 i...

MAY 2013 Gratitudes, All are Welcome!

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 15:42:28 EST

“Develop an attitude of gratitude, and give thanks for everything that happens to you, knowing that every step forward is a step toward achieving something bigger and better than your current situation.”
Brian Tracy
87

The idea here is to write at least five things you are grateful or appreciative each day, thus cultivating an attitude of gratitude I will be here with my 5 when it is May for me. I appreciate everyone who joins me in this tradition.

Do You Ever Want to Crawl In a Hole?

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 14:34:13 EST

I'm back to exercising but technically I am still recovering from a bicycle crash last year (wrong-way cyclist knocked me off my bike). There was a helicopter, a respirator in ICU, half a dozen broken bones. One of them was C2. No surgery, though I understand that was quite the decision process amongst my doctors.

I'm done with medical care and am working to get back to condition. I ran 5 miles the other day for the first time since the crash. I'm doing my daily 10-mile errand...

I need a reason to lose weight.

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 11:53:43 EST

My motivation is dwindling. I am 66 and am healthy. After 3 years of a healthy lifestyle I am lighter by 20 lbs and stronger and healthier. My recent physical showed real progress in all blood work.

But I still weigh 164 which is too much for a 5' lady. With only a little more to lose the lbs are coming off harder.

I know you can't give me a reason to lose weight but thanks for listening.

I felt discouraged...

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 11:29:08 EST

Hi everyone,
I have been tracking on my food intake and exercise however, I still cant lose weight. Im rather discouraged and dont know how else to stay motivated...

Need Helppppp

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 04:39:13 EST

From the month of October 6, 2012 it have been hard to get and stay focused. I'm upset with myself. There was death in the family then the first of the yr there was another major turn around. Since then I have gained almost thirty (30) lbs back. I want it of and it is again effecting my health. Now I feel desperate and have consider getting diet pills. This is really bothering me. I had lost down to 16/18 from 24s. Now I'm back up to 20/22. Because of spinal problems I can't do regular exerci...

Songs & Lyrics that Motivate YOU

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 21:57:06 EST

I love Firework by Katy Perry.

Do you ever feel like a plastic bag
Drifting through the wind, wanting to start again?
Do you ever feel, feel so paper thin
Like a house of cards, one blow from caving in?

Do you ever feel already buried deep?
Six feet under screams, but no one seems to hear a thing
Do you know that there's still a chance for you
'Cause there's a spark in you?

You just gotta ignite the light and let it shine ...

Getting re-motivated

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:46:31 EST

I have a hard time staying with things lately, but I got up this morning ready to commit to doing what I know works. I think I just needed a break. However, I have watched my weight creep up, and that is depressing. I plan to ignore the past, and just start again. Here we go!

Spark Radio

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 23:13:26 EST

Hey all, I hope you're having a rockin' day. Be sure to check out Spark Radio this week. I'm in it and I'm super excited!

just feeling numb, advice? plz?

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 22:05:51 EST

This isn't the first time that I've tried to lose weight, I've been doing this practically most of my life! And few weeks ago, I started again and was really determined to lose the weight this time, but after a few days -NOT WEEKS- I just quit! And now I just feel numb. I'm not following a diet neither am I working out. Any advice? please..

My First Blog but More See It Here

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 17:14:38 EST

So when I really first started to get motivated to lose weight and get in shape, eat right, etc. I found out I was pregnant. Here it is, almost 3 years later, and now we have two daughters and I still haven't found the motivation to eat right. Why does it feel so hard? I had mini-wheats for breakfast...then chinese for lunch and junk this afternoon...I figured Sundays could be my "free" day, but still I feel so lazy and un-motivated. Sure, I still have some time before I go back to work, but ...

Is it really that bad...

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 15:43:20 EST

...to lose weight for someone else?

(Apparently I couldn't type that entire thing for the topic name.)

Let me explain. I personally do not put health on the top of my "to do" list. Even if I did, weight loss wouldn't be anywhere on the list to begin with. I kinda feel like treating weight loss as a side-effect rather than a goal I should be aiming towards. But regardless, I do not feel I have a reason to put all my focus on health. I've got far more important (and a...

cheating...

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 15:05:07 EST

So ive been doing amazing with my clean eating and working out. No cheating just keeping it going. I actually feel great :). I have made the decision to not weigh or measure myself 'till my birthday June 1st. Today I had my healthy breakfast and snack. For lunch however I will cheat and have what ive been craving for months; menudo! Of course I will not over do it and later today my intense cardio and training. Idk about y'all but I'm having a great Sunday! :)

How long to help someone before giving up?

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 14:06:07 EST

I am sure I am not the only one with people in my life that SAY that they're ready to make a change and even ask for advice, but then don't actually take any effort. What do you do when a person who has truly asked for help - and you put a lot of effort into helping them and share a lot of you're personal experiences with them - and you find out that they still eat fast food 10 times a week and don't actually listen to anything you say, yet they are STILL asking for advice? Should you still i...

Did You Know?

Sat, 27 Apr 2013 16:20:59 EST

It is not the storms we weather, MY FRIENDS , that define us; it is the way that we weather the storms! Live In His Grace! For more details on scriptures, story and lesson, read today’s “FOLLOWING IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF FAITH” and share it with those you love. Vic.

:)

Sat, 27 Apr 2013 04:25:02 EST

Maintained this week.

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 22:54:01 EST

I went through a break up last Saturday, which was not my decision. This week has been emotionally tough and very stressful. I had one night of heavy drinking, but I still worked out four times and otherwise maintained healthy eating habits. While I didn't lose anything this week, I feel like it's a miracle that I didn't gain! I'll take it as part of any little piece of encouragement I can at this time!

Should I?

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:44:26 EST

I decided in march, that if I met a two prong goal, I could add a spa pedicure to my 12 K SPA Day reward that I have already scheduled. I met one part, staying within my calorie range but my fitness minutes were severaly lacking. Just curious, do people think I should get my reward? I suppose I could do half, one foot pedicure.

Is there anything better than water?!

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 14:18:09 EST

I got a compliment from my beauty therapist who said she liked the moisture level of my skin. I am sure that is because for about three months I have drunk enough water again! And there are other benefits:
- it keeps me fuller for longer
- it makes my coffee taste better if I have a glass of water with it (people in Spain or Italy already know this)
- it gives me a reason to leave my desk and walk for a few metres
- it helps me relax when I am stressed!

I love y...

consistancy buddy

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:50:47 EST

ok so I'm in desperate need of a friend who will keep me accountable and consistent ..I love exercising but with noone to "help " me it can get discouraging sometimes

Guess my time to win a prize!! No joke!

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 16:13:32 EST

I need motivation and plus I like to give things away, so follow this blog for a chance to win!

http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public
_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=5334174

How to get in the mood to work out?

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 13:23:36 EST

When in a slump what do you do to get in the mood to work out.

I am growing board of exercise and when that happens in the past I tend to give up go back to my old ways and gain back what I have already lost plus more.

Please HELP!!! 198

I have completely lost it

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 13:21:37 EST

It is almost as I am self destructing. Not happy, not healthy, eating THE WORST possible food ever. I honestly don't know if I have ever been this bad or careless with myself.

What has happened? What do I do to get myself back on track? Even just one small step will help, but I don't know what to do or how to do it?

HELP!

WHy reasons of putting on weight

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 10:05:16 EST

I have just realized my why reason of why I put on weight and I just blogged about the details..

Was your why reason easy or hard to come by and find? If it is Why did you put on weight/ Or was it like a light bulb moment you know why right away..

Why did my why reasons take so long? LOL But now that I found it I am calling it my last 40lbs passion weight...

My weight came on because of a passion that was taken away so rudely and crudely.
I have just fou...

I am SO discouraged!

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 09:44:17 EST

Today was my weekly weigh in and I'm UP several pounds. I started this in late March and I've been up and down every week. I haven't looked today but I'm probably close to where I started. I'm over 60 and knew that losing got harder as you got older but this is ridiculous. I have to succeed at this - I can't continue to gain 5 - 10 lbs a year.

I spent a couple of weeks just tracking what I ate then began trying to adjust the "mix" so I was getting more protein and fewer carbs. ...

Ten years from now...

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 08:15:52 EST

One of my biggest motivators is imagining myself ten years from now. Will I be happy with my decisions today. Are the choices I make today going to matter ten years from now? This helps me stay motivated and dedicated to make healthy choices because I know that it influences other aspects as well. For example, I am being a good example to my children inspiring them to make healthy choices. I am learning to set goals and using practical methods to achieve them so that in ten years I will have ...

NEW FITNESS TRACKER

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 04:34:30 EST

SO HARD TO USE. DEPLETING MY MOTIVATION TO TRACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! HELP...

What the 5lbs of fat you lost LOOKS like.

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 23:56:25 EST

So, if you're like me at the beginning of your goal or even at the end, take some appreciation that you have lost this:

www.bodytransformationlab.com/wp-con
tent/uploads/2011/09/5lb-fat-brick.jpg

That right there, my friends, is what 5 lbs of body fat looks like. So next time you're feeling down or need some motivation, there you are. :)

Sourced from Body Transformation Lab.

motivational buddy

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 19:51:57 EST

I'm having such a hard time getting my butt moving lately. I've gained 5 pounds so that I weigh more now than ever before in my life. I was 260 this morning. All I want to do is eat, just can't seem to get out of this rut. Anyone else need a kick in the pants and want to be e-mail buddies?

getting motivated to diet

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 16:23:52 EST

Help. I joined Spark people at the end of January. I have no problem with staying motivated to exercise. I am hooked on kick boxing and running(well, jogging as I haven't cracked a 14 min. mile yet...) and I walk regularly with a friend. Dieting on the other hand remains elusive. I hate planning and tracking what I eat. I have had success with planning out my meals so if I can find any motivation..it's in planning weekly meals. But taking the time to find the foods I eat in the trackin...

How was your workout today

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 16:11:47 EST

I had an awesome time today. Really felt great when I finish.

How was your workout today

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 16:11:06 EST

I had an awesome time today. Really felt great when I finish.

Do you do water aerobic

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 16:08:41 EST

Its awesome. You feel so much better.

how d i stay motivated

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 15:20:49 EST

Hello i just started spark people this month but started my weight loss journey in feb of 2013.i am very limited to work outs.im trying to stay motivated with the work outs i do.i walk, jog in place, push my kids in the stroller, walk the stairs and i have one work out game for the ps2....i sometime use cleaning as a work out depending on how hard i work.i guess i need more work out ideas.i have asthma and bad knees.i dont have internet or money for a gym.im on my phones internet.so if any bo...

Big Set Back & Quite Bummed

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 10:42:55 EST

Well, I've been working on eating healthier (and have been doing quite well, might I add, since I started on April 1st, I've been down 12lbs). I should've hit the 13lb mark yesterday or the day before, but then the inevitable happened: my period. Even though I only consumed 1100 calories yesterday and was only .4lbs away from my 13lb loss, somehow I GAINED .8lbs (Yes, I weigh myself at the same time in the mornings I get weighed). You can imagine I'm really bummed out. For the women: How do y...

what's motivating me to lose weight ?

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 05:46:19 EST

My name is Patti and I am new to Sparkpeople. I am tired of being unhealthy,so I am eating better and moving my body more each day. I guess my BIGGEST motivation to lose weight is to permanently getting off my oral diabetic medication !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 30

When I exercise I gain weight..

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 22:59:35 EST

I just lost 5lbs in almost 31/2 weeks. My sparks weight tracker says I'm on track. This motivates me to want to do more, but about 7 months ago I was 235lbs and I got a membership to the Y. I gained 10lbs when I should have lost. It scares me a little. Is this a problemfor any one else.

Not losing weight

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 21:16:05 EST

I am absolutely baffled. I am barely losing weight (heck, scale went up almost three pounds after going out to eat!) Don't get me wrong, I am happy as HECK I have lost 4.5 inches so far and my endurance, for the most part, is much better and I feel stronger. But why the heck is the scale not really moving? Am I doing something wrong? Should I just not worry about it and keep doing what I'm doing?

celeb motivations?

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 14:55:50 EST

Which celebrities are your motivation to keep working hard on your body?

Mine are:
BEYONCE!

what is yours?

Only 16 wks. to first goal!!!! Scarry!!!

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 14:48:08 EST

Ok,so I figured out my scales issue only to realize my first goal is less than 16 wks. away and thought I was going strong until I realized my wt. loss was only 6lbs in 3 weeks not 16!!! ugh!!! But am not giving up I need to lose 2.75 lbs. a week to get there.
Any helpful suggestions welcome!! I have real issues meal planning for myself!!! HELP PLEASE!!!
I love veggies,stk.,meatloaf,ckn. and allergic to all shell fish!!! I love fruit but can't seem to figure out how to balance my p...

A day of Mourning for the old ways...

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 12:38:39 EST

It's taken me some time, but I finally have (kinda) come to grips that I can NOT eat like I used to, or like other people do. My body is the type that if I have a binge day or cheat here or there, it will immediately show up on the scale. This journey I am on now is a LIFE LONG journey.

And sometimes it sucks!!! I wish I could be carefree and have a Twinkie or a Little Debbie's cake or fresh homemade tortillas, etc... whenever I feel like it.

I can't.

And it...

Eating Out Healthy - It Can Be Done!!

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 08:15:05 EST

I ate out twice yesterday - a very rare occurrence because we never eat out, it is too expensive. But I was at one-day conference for work yesterday, and so was forced to find a healthy eat-out experience. My friend and I got very lucky, and discovered a brand new restaurant in downtown Chicago (Local Root in Streeterville) that offered organic, locally grown menu items. We both had a beet and goat cheese salad to die for!

In the evening, my dinner plans changed (it is a long stor...

What I like about my body

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 07:50:56 EST

I like my hair, my eyes, my smile. My skin is nice in the summer when I catch a few rays. :) I like that it gets me where I want to go and back. I'm obese but getting healthier every day. I'm sorry I abused it by am trying to take better care of it. I'm glad it tells me when something is really wrong. I like that I'm getting more flexible and stronger and not having to crawl to a chair to get up off the floor. I like that my body is aging well - not as many wrinkles as I should have.

Today I feel...

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 07:47:12 EST

I was feeling great and then I celebrated a friend's birthday and another friend of ours made a collage of the three of us celebrating the birthday girl's birthdays over the years and it just made me so depressed that I look heavier than ever :(

Getting back into it!

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 06:30:10 EST

Hello all, I joined spark around 3 years ago and lost alot of weight, with the help of an aggressive exercise program. I got fit and felt fantastic, better then I had in my whole entire life. lost over 4 and a half stone. Then the dreaded thing happened, I have put 2 stone back on and am now back to being very unfit. terrible eating habits and no extra workout ruitine, this happened back in september 2012. I don't know how to get motivated again.............

Two days ago I logged b...

Looking for a collection of small rewards ideas

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 01:30:14 EST

Ahoy!

I already have a reward system in place for sticking with my workout plan. Every 25 days I give myself a prize (a new movie, cookbook, get my eyebrows done, etc). I like to reward consistency not poundage lost. (107 days in a row - so I think it's a good plan!)

Anyway, now I am trying to add the focus on the food side of things. I hate tracking food, and struggle with it... so I plan on giving myself a reward for ever day I track all my food. At this point I don't ...

Body Image Struggles

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 15:48:31 EST

I have to wonder how much company I have in this struggle. I have lost 76 pounds, gotten myself to a weight that is lower than I was in college which, 24 years and three kids later is no small feat. I am in better shape that I've ever been, am fit, healthy and am getting stronger all the time. I'm fitting into sizes that I never imagined I would as an adult and yet, I'm still discouraged and disappointed.

As an apple shape to begin with and after three pregnancies, lots of stret...

staying positive- how to

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:28:53 EST

how do you stay positive? i read somewhere its a lifelong commitment and i find it hard sometimes. and websites or quotes would be appreciated thanks