*Downsize-me* Weight Loss Discussion, lead by our weight-loss champion Steven Bond.

[Mrs oOple]

Hiya, I've made a dedicated thread for folk who have successfully lost weight to share their stories, and for those who wish to lose weight to seek advice.

I'm no pro, although I have lost a few pounds playing on the wii-fit and trying to be more conscious of how much I eat. I'll leave this thread for Steven Bond to take the lead on anyway, as he's our in house weight loss warrior! :thumbsup:

[ashleyb4]

Over the past 5 months ive managed to loose about 1 and 1/2 stone maybe 2 stone. I havent changed what I eat the only thing that has changed is i now have a car which means i dont walk anywhere any more and i am now working full time..

Not really useful advice but my little story.

A

[bondy]

Warrior?
Well not quite. You could say however that i have seen the light. After many years of abuse i now find that all the shit we eat is not good for you. We all know that. Its not hard to understand. I can say that most blokes are not going to go to weight watchers meetings just to be told whats good for you and whats bad. Things like weight watchers are there to feed on the insecurities of sorry to say "women" all adverts on weight loss are. The simple fact is cut out all the crap you know is not good and excersise. Nature will take care of the rest. How succsessfull you are is determind by how much you want it and your level of willpower.

Some tips

1.. Dont starve yourselve
2.. Keep a food log ( this helped me with the diabetes I could see what effect different types of food made to my blood sugar levels and in what amounts0
3.. Keep a weight log ( I only weigh once a week at the same time. Your weight varies so much from day to day and at different times of day. I do mine Sunday morning, that way you dont pig out saturday night)
4.. Set some realistic goals extreame loss is not good. I started with a hell of a lot of weight. 1 stone a month was possible. When you have only a few stone to loose set your targets more sensible possibly 4-6 months. The main aim is not to just loose weight but get fitter. The fitter you are the easyer everything is and the excersise is easyer. I now have a target of 18 stones in June this year I know my muscle mass is jumping up all the time so its gonna take longer.
5.. Dont always go by weight. A good indication is also Inches.. Measure regularly and you will see the inches drop. This is most times a better inducation than weight loss. As you muscle get bigger you weigh more so inches are the best indicator.
6.. Muscle weighs a lot. Many years I lost 4 stones then it suddenly slowed and stopped. I was hitting big weights at the gym no cardio. I lost faith and thought why bother. Now cardio is 90% of my workouts. Ill sort muscles out after.
7.. Just keep going .. Walking is the best to start with walk walk walk. 30 mins a day mp3 player on headphones in and not matter what the weather just do it.


GET OUT AND DO IT !!

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk145/bigbadbond/23012011623.jpg

[stegger]

Quite right steve, the will power and belief that you can and will succeed is the biggest thing for me. I've set MYSELF small realistic goals to which so far i've exceeded. Another 4lb off this week, so 10lb in total and i'm already feeling the benefits :thumbsup: Hitting the gym for full workouts this week coming so hoping to loose my first stone !!! :cool:

[reg]

I was only 30 when i found out id got an under active thyroid,im lucky that i enjoy keeping fit as it keeps the weight off,i think like bondy says its not always good to rely on the scales,enjoy what you are doing,do it right and you will get results,if not have a word with your doc and they should give you a blood test,weight training keeps the metabolizum switched on when you not at the gym,fat is just stored energy,muscles need energy so they help to burn the fat when your sitting watching eastenders:thumbsup:

[Kash]

Totaly agree with what bondy says.

The biggest way for me to lose weight was calorie counting. I stuck to roughly 1500 cals more if i'm playing footie etc but that should help you lose roughly 1-2lbs a week.

Its all about a lifestyle change.

Kash

[Mrs oOple]

We did a presentation about weight a couple of weeks ago, if I remember the stats correctly:
If you consume 500calories per day more than you are burning, over the course of the week this amounts to 1lb in weight gain.

Similarly to lose 1lb, you need to burn 500 calories more per day than you are consuming.

If that makes sense?

Simply put, I like what Bondy said about viewing food as being fuel now; so makes choices based on the amount of energy he is going to burn.

And for people who are serious about losing weight, it's important to make sustainable lifestyle changes. i.e. removing things from your diet that you know you can survive without from one day to the next. And also recognising that occasional treats are acceptable.

I've lost 2lb since my last wii-fit weigh-in :)

[poopers]

Here’s an interesting video about weight loss/gain. It’s definitely worth your time watching if you take this stuff seriously.

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=4362041487661765149#

general idea of video: It’s not necessarily all about watching your calories as much as the type of carbohydrates you consume.

Personally, I also obsessively try to avoid artificial sweeteners like high-fructose corn syrup and aspartame.

[stegger]

LOST MY FIRST STONE :thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup:

[Mrs oOple]

Well done Stegger, congratulations :)
Are you working with exercise alone or other changes too? Remember if you're doing muscle building exercises to consider chest / waist measurements etc as ultimately the weight loss will slow down once the muscle bulk increases.
What's your target?

[stegger]

Vicky, Just started at the gym a week ago which has helped ;) ( cardio excercise ) I would like to build up abit but i was told to slim down first before weight training. Most of the weight loss has been down to diet and to be honest i've enjoyed it !!!! The BIG test was last weekend when myself and the Mrs went to cheltenham to visit some relatives and we eat out. No snacking or puddings, nicky's cousin was laughing her head off because i was knowin as the PUDDIN KING !!
Target is 13 1/2 stone, so another 3 1/2 stone to go :)

[MatJohnson]

Here’s an interesting video about weight loss/gain. It’s definitely worth your time watching if you take this stuff seriously.

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=4362041487661765149#

general idea of video: It’s not necessarily all about watching your calories as much as the type of carbohydrates you consume.

Personally, I also obsessively try to avoid artificial sweeteners like high-fructose corn syrup and aspartame.

Watched that video, some interesting theories. It sounded like if you followed the dietary advice of diabetics then it should help? or did I miss the point?

[Chequered Flag Racing]

We did a presentation about weight a couple of weeks ago, if I remember the stats correctly:
If you consume 500calories per day more than you are burning, over the course of the week this amounts to 1lb in weight gain.

Similarly to lose 1lb, you need to burn 500 calories more per day than you are consuming.



Burnt up 1827c's today so I don't feel guilty :thumbsup:

probably just put it all back on with Spog Bog and Garlic bread for tea, home of course :D

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/73227499

[kinggareth]

I didn't expect to see a health section on an RC forum, but it's good to see you all encouraging a healthy lifestyle since RC racing isn't the most physically demanding of sports!

My weight has always fluctuated - due mostly to an inability to stop eating McDonalds and chocolate! But I'm getting married abroad in Rhodes this June which has given me a good target for my weight loss.

The diet started 5 weeks ago, combined with plenty of gym work (weights and cardio) and so far I've lost 9.5lbs. Another 9lbs to go to get to my target of 12 and a half stone and 8 weeks to get there. Wish me luck.

[960rc]

My heavyest I was at 19st 12 and needed to do some thing. The time was right to loose weight, now 15st 8 in less than 8 months. Finding the last 2st really hard to shift, but will keep on running and cycling.

[bondy]

Thank god summer is coming..


After a slow winter Gym work is boring im back out on the bike.... After the torn knee ligaments beging of march whilst SKIING " of all things " in Slovakia it has been a painfull few weeks .. But todays 37 mile ride from Sherwood pines to and around clumber and back without a knee brace the Knee feels around 80 % back to normal... Milage mid week is back to the 20 mile a day mark and the weight has started to dropp off again. Not that it stopped mind it just slowed a lot.. % fat is down 4-5 % a month but muscle is jumping up 6-8 % at the same time... Im not doing heavy weights but my leg muscles are looking like Chris Hoys LOLOLO ..

Listing to Glyn and Dirty Rambo chatting as we ride is funny.. It quiet when we hit the hills though ---- Huffing and puffing etc... LOL

Waist is getting smaller and everything else.... Im not sure what weight I started at Docs have me weighed at 197 KG and I can remember some 200 KG scales saying EEEEERRRRROOORRRR at one point .. Im now down around 129- 130 mark and loosing about .75 to 1 KG a week.. Gonna have a big push next few months to get down to the 18 stone mark for my birthday in September.. Problem with excersising a LOT is you need to eat a lot... Im getting through rice cakes like mad LOL

Me Rambo and Wardy
http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk145/bigbadbond/DSCF0057.jpg

Me and Rambo

Cant wait for the rest of the Man boobs to Go LOL I miss them though LOL

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk145/bigbadbond/MeandRambo.jpg

I treated myself to a frame upgrade ON ONE 456 Carbon LUVELY and Light just like ME !!!! :thumbsup:

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk145/bigbadbond/Meand456.jpg

[bondy]

After doing my knee in Sking begining of march I went and fell off @sherwood pines the other sunday... grazed and dazed and on the same blooming kneee. No damage to knee joint and skabs are coming off now.. Anyway I weighed in at the gym and was -5kg down since beginging of march.... Considering the 3 weeks of bad knee not to bad... Should be well on target this year but I know I have to push.. Instructer at gym wants me to do upper body work now as he said my tree trunk legs dont need any work,..?? wonder why ???? SO sunday morning was a 2hr arm and chest fest... Im feeling it now ! :mad:

So the day after I came off I hobbled along to broxtowe .. grabbed the couger out of the garage and just chucked it down... qual 8th finneshed somewhere but smiled all the way...


Spot the " BIG BAD BOND" dont stick out so much as the photo Vivky put up last year... In fact smithy wouldnt let me stand near him LOLLOLOL only joking

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk145/bigbadbond/mebroxtowe.jpg

[bondy]

R.I.P "BIG BAD BOND" Long may live just "BAD BOND"

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk145/bigbadbond/2011-05-28162222.jpg

[Mrs oOple]

Awesome! Are you like some sort of 'The Stig' now?

[teamorsum96]

firstly MRS oople, he cant be the stig lol but it could be the ghost rider :D
http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n147/retardedcamel/ghostrider1.jpg

and secondly, i wish i could put weight on, im 6ft2 and 12stone. i can eat full family size cakes and lose 4LBs :cry:

and finally.
RESPECT TO ALL THE PEOPLE THAT AS LOST WEIGHT! and keep it up :D

[Mrs oOple]

Yeah! That's the sort of thing I meant! lol :woot:

Your BMI is very acceptable, you are a healthy weight - what sort of weight do you want to gain?

Full size family cakes will line your arteries well, but if you have a fast metabolism it's unlikely to help you gain weight. You'd perhaps be better off trying to build up a little bit by eating a protein-rich diet? Have you always been a slim build or lost weight recently?

[teamorsum96]

[QUOTE=Mrs oOple;508203]Yeah! That's the sort of thing I meant! lol :woot:

Your BMI is very acceptable, you are a healthy weight - what sort of weight do you want to gain?

Full size family cakes will line your arteries well, but if you have a fast metabolism it's unlikely to help you gain weight. You'd perhaps be better off trying to build up a little bit by eating a protein-rich diet? Have you always been a slim build or lost weight recently?[/QUOTE

no matter what i eat, i cant seem to put weight on, fair does, i have put nearly stone on over the last year, i would be happy with 13stone:) i am toned all over, but im wanting my chest bigger, which i no i have to lose the belly before my chest will start to turn into fat before i can turn it into muscular which is't a problem.
i have always been slim but i have always been active, i the riding bikes kiteboarding or snowboarding, now i like to walk can be up to 15miles a day. dam.. i must be getting old lol

[bondy]

:thumbsup:Spot the Diff.. Cheers Tony and Dean !

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk145/bigbadbond/spotthedifference.jpg

[teamorsum96]

:thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup:

[Maritime]

Hi

Well here go's

If you know me or been to any of the Maritime meeting you will have seen I am a bit of a big guy.

Not no more

I was 20 stone 3rd January 2011

to date i have lost 4 stone down to 16 stone with just 1 more stone to lose

to get to this weight i lowered my food in take

and worked out 30 mins a day plus run to work and home

All can lose the weight with just a bit of hard work, here's to losing the next stone

Thank you for reading

Ian Knight

[bondy]

Hi

Well here go's

If you know me or been to any of the Maritime meeting you will have seen I am a bit of a big guy.

Not no more

I was 20 stone 3rd January 2011

to date i have lost 4 stone down to 16 stone with just 1 more stone to lose

to get to this weight i lowered my food in take

and worked out 30 mins a day plus run to work and home

All can lose the weight with just a bit of hard work, here's to losing the next stone

Thank you for reading

Ian Knight

All so true.....all it takes is belief and willpower.... Well done that man...... I have a couple more to go... 18stones and ill be happy....already fit as a fiddle....

[stegger]

Must admit i've slipped a bit :thumbdown::thumbdown: But got a new bike coming next week :thumbsup: So back to it and hopefully do it this time ;)

[bondy]

A small jedi master once said something that for me rings true for most things in life especially loosing weight and getting fit..

" DO..OR DO NOT....THERE IS NO TRY "

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk145/bigbadbond/me1.jpg

[Mrs oOple]

Bondy, you are a star and an inspiration :) Looking great - keep up the good work and spurring on all these other guys :thumbsup:
Well done to everyone else joining the healthy weight team.

[Big G]

Although I'm reasonably healthy I still have a bit of a belly so I've started doing small weights and I'm going to get myself a newbike hopefully next weekend to start work on my cardio

[Jamesd]

I thought I would add my bit to this section of the forum.

I am 20 and left after my first year of University.

I have all ways been a larger person. I want a job working in Motorsport which requires you being fit and being on your feet all the day.

My local DW fitness had a 6 week offer for £40 so I signed up for that.

I have been going to the gym for just over a week. I go most days, I do between 30mins to an hour a day.

My starting weight at the gym is just over 18st. With 37.7% of my body as fat and my idea weight is between 9st and 12st so I get 6st to loose.

I have also started to keep a food log which has helped me cut out the stuff I don’t need to eat. I normal eat when i am bored.

Thanks
James

[Conrad]

Loosing weight through diet's are just fads and shouldn't be your main goal, changing your lifestyle through diet and exercise to be more healthy and improve the quality of your life should be your main goal.

Fat is good for you and a good source of energy for your body, it's the carbohydrates that do all the damage. If you don't burn off all the carbs through exercise your body turns them in to fat and stores them around your body. Also if you diet to just loose fat without exercising you will loose fat but also lean body mass (muscle) which is a bad thing, you can loose fat, gain muscle mass without the scales changing much but your body composition (shape) will change and should be the change you strive for not just loosing weight.

I try to follow the Paleo lifestyle of which their are a ton of books out their on the subject and a ton of free info on the link below, yes it does pimp his book a bit but their is still a load of useful information there including a few free ebooks if you signup for the newsletter, one of them does cover fitness through some simple bodyweight exercises, lots of good information on the second link for exercise.

http://www.marksdailyapple.com/primal-blueprint-101/

http://www.alkavadlo.com/

[smokes]

bondy ,how long does it take for your legs to recover after riding, i am currently commuting from leeds to castleford which is 25 mile round trip, but its taking and age for my legs to recover

[stegger]

Smokes, i've just started riding myself so i know were your coming from, legs like jelly after tonight. 9.8 miles which is the longest ride i've done but i recovered a bit quicker than before :thumbsup:
What type of bike are you using ? mountain,hybrid or road bike.
The only reason i ask is because i tried a mountain bike but because of the knobbly tyres i found it hard to keep a consistant pace, I was fighting the bike, if you know what i mean. But on the bike i eventually bought (Hybrid) with road tyres it was a lot better. Keep at it though fella cos you will enjoy it, i am :D

[smokes]

I used to do 100miles week about 4 years ago and stopped, just wondering how long it take to get fit again. I am riding a mountian bike with schwabe marathons ( 1.50 wide and running a 100psi in them )on it but i am so slow on the hills compared to how I used to be.... Just trying figure how long it gonna take to get my legs back into shape. As bondy is way way ahead of me in the fitness stakes i thought i'd ask

[bondy]

I suppose it depends on the fitness level and amount of use. I have got to the stage now
Where my legs dont hurt much at all. But they get a work out everyday. The more you do the quicker you recover..lungs and heart aswell. The main thing to do is keep hydrated. Water is the key.. I didnt drink enough when I just had a bottle on the bike. Now I use a camelpak and get through roughly a litre an hour.
http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk145/bigbadbond/2011-08-04200754.jpg

Me and brian shardlow after tonigts muddy run around pines.

And I agree about. Muscle mass and carbs. To begin with it was about getting rid of the bluber..now its about muscle mass and fitness. Ill let the last bit of bluber do its own thing. Was aiming for 18 stone but would be happy with a fit beefy 19 !

[bondy]

Not so much Physical health but more for metal health.. I always wanted a tattoo of somekind but having one done when your big then loosing weight means it goes all shrivelled. So after this last year and a half and to mark me dropping below the 20 stones mark and into the teens ! I thought id finaly have a little one done.


XXXI " 31 " as in 31 Stones which I went past.

NUMQUAM DENUO " never again " in Latin

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk145/bigbadbond/knight.jpg

[Disco-Panda]

Bondy the tattoo looks awsome man :) well done on the weight loss bud looking good :)

im guna have to take a leaf out of yur book and shed some fatty parts :)

well done again mate :)

[c0sie]

On the subject of weight loss, I need some advice if anyone is qualified enough to know the answer?

In 2001 I slipped my L5S1 disc out partially but not enough that doctors would refer me to the hospital for MRI's or surgery.

After 7 years of suffering with the resultant sciatica and putting on weight due to not feeling able to exercise/ruining my posture from the muscle spasms and contractions etc I fell off a chair at work in early 2008 and 2/3rd's of my disc popped out.

Spent 2 weeks unable to move my left leg due to the disc popping out and completely mullering my sciatic nerve. Spent the next 5 months literally crying my eyes out in pain everytime I had to do anything that required moving my body..but still had to go to work 5 days a week as a salesman driving in uncomfortable positions for hours and then pounding the pavements for hours.

In fact the pain was so unbearable at times and resonated from my left ankle all the way to the underside of my gentlemans bits that I even started telling my parents I was scared I would lose the use of my bits :( Bad times.

Anyh0w, Oct 2008 I had the majority of the disc removed and the two vertabrae were ground down to reduce any bone rubbing (Dremelling!).

My problem (amongst others) is this. I still have nerve damage from the disc popping out so badly and pushing the nerve so hard. Where you can all do tippy-toes on both feet and on each individual foot, I cannot do that on my left leg. I have no pushing power at all and when I run/jog my right leg pushes off but my left leg just buckles so I basically look like the hunch back of Notre Dame shuffling into the distance..with running shoes on.

Does anyone know if that nerve damage and the resultant lack of any "pushing power" in my left leg will ever change?

When I fell off the chair and the dsic slammed into my nerve it made my left hamstring spasm so hard that the hamstring locked up solid for the first 4 hours. Once the muscle gave up the ghost (as said above) it took 2 weeks before I could even move the leg and a further 2 weeks before I could use it to stand on.

I just need to know if I will ever be able to use my leg properly again, regain the strength...and if so, how??

Or will I limp for the rest of my life?

Thanks in advance.

[KJR]

I'm a physio with about 10 years experience of working with musculoskeletal conditions. In answer to your question about the power of your leg following your lumbar spine surgery in 2008.

Your ability to recover depends on whether the muscle does not have power because it's nerve supply was affected and therefore became weaker or if the nerve was compressed enough that it is permanently unable to provide adequate signals to the muscle. If the muscle is just residually weak after the nerve returned to normal function then some strengthening exercise will help. If the nerve is compromised then it is unlikely to recover much strength. Given that you are still having problems now since 2008 I would think the latter scenario is the most likely one.

In saying that I would suggest that you find a physiotherapist near you who is state registered with the health professions council. That last bit is important as it means you will get a properly qualified physio. They will be able to assess you and advise you on how to maximise your function.

Good luck

[c0sie]

Hi, thanks for your reply :)

Although not necessarily the answer was hoping for, thank you for taking the time to reply.

As for looking around for a registered physio, that will be the next thing I do.

Thanks :)

I'm a physio with about 10 years experience of working with musculoskeletal conditions. In answer to your question about the power of your leg following your lumbar spine surgery in 2008.

Your ability to recover depends on whether the muscle does not have power because it's nerve supply was affected and therefore became weaker or if the nerve was compressed enough that it is permanently unable to provide adequate signals to the muscle. If the muscle is just residually weak after the nerve returned to normal function then some strengthening exercise will help. If the nerve is compromised then it is unlikely to recover much strength. Given that you are still having problems now since 2008 I would think the latter scenario is the most likely one.

In saying that I would suggest that you find a physiotherapist near you who is state registered with the health professions council. That last bit is important as it means you will get a properly qualified physio. They will be able to assess you and advise you on how to maximise your function.

Good luck

[Big G]

just completed the 1st 100 miles since buying my bike a month ago. Really happy with that. I'm not loosing weight as such still at 11st 13lb / 167lb / 75.74kg, but I feel so much fitter and my breathing is a lot better.

My 1st ride out on the bike I did 6.8 miles in 35mins.
Yesterday I did 8.5 miles in 34mins :D

Longest ride so far is 13.8 miles so looking to improve that soon.

[Mrs oOple]

Well done :thumbsup:

Do you feel as though you need to lose weight, or just looking to tone up / feel fitter? Your weight seems to be within a fairly healthy range - if you're taller than 5ft 9in then your BMI is falling into the healthy category. Great that you're feeling fitter anyway, endorphines can work wonders :)

[TryHard]

I thought I would add my little story here as well...

A few weeks back I decided that enough was enough, and I really needed to get something done about my weight. I've been around 100kg for years (height 5'10" btw)... lowest I've been was 98 a few years back for a sailing event, but as it was a quick drop (2weeks), lost a load of strength too.

As a bit more background, last Nov I moved out to China, and whilst I was riding to work everyday back in the UK, since being here I've hardly done much to help matters. My fitness level as a result has suffered, and my weight has slowly creeped up to above 102kg. Part of my big issue has always been that I've also enjoyed food (usually not the good stuff as well) a bit too much, and tended to eat a lot in the evenings.

Anyway, like I said before, a few weeks back I decided enough was enough. Part the of the reason was the lady telling me that she would like me thinner... and that pushed me over the edge.

So for the past few weeks, I've been running 2-3 times a week, and doing some smaller exercises at home each day. Also on a non-running day, try to mix it up with cycling and swimming.
I'm also making a concerted effort to eat less (especially in the evenings), and eat better, and drinking a lot more water instead of other things. And that includes completely cutting out alcohol for the time being, although that is more to do with the below.

I have another goal as well, as a colleague mentioned about doing a half-marathon in shanghai in Dec, which I've agreed to do. I've never done anything like that before... but figure it gives me a good target to work too.

Self-motivation has always been a big issue for me, but with people around me pushing me, it certainly helps.

So far, I started out at 103kg four weeks ago, and last week when I weighed myself I was down to 101.5kg. Not a huge amount, but I've decided the best thing is not to become fixated on the actual weight. My main targets are to look better and be fitter, and I figure the weight will follow as a consequence.

I do have a general target of 80-85kg, any less than that and I think I would be a bit weak, and as I have a larger build will struggle to get less.

On the fitness side, already seeing big improvements. At the start I could hardly run 4K without stopping... this week alone I've already done two 12K runs (one being an interval style session), and plan to do a 15K before the end of the week.

Ok, the times are below the target I have for the half marathon (2hr 10min), but at the moment I'm concentrating on getting the endurance, and then speed can come latter.

At the very least, I am already starting to see a difference. I look thinner, can grab a less around the middle, and well, the distances on the runs speak for themselves... so far, so good..

Regards
Ed

[bondy]

Go on Eddy my boy !!! When will we see the new you back in the UK ?? :thumbsup:

I drop below 20 stones and it just seems to stay there these last month. #But the inches are coming off the waist still Im just bulking up a lot more.. I might have to rethink my target of 18 stones and maybee settle for a ripped and totaly fit LOL 19 stones.

To much Gym work im afraid.... Still do the 1 hr cardio but what follows is 2 hrs of weigh training. Still doing the MTB rides though. Did a 38 miler on Monday just to get my arse ready for the 37 mile BHF ride in two weeks.

http://www.endomondo.com/workouts/g7r3Muu3CCc Gonna try and give Glyn Ward a run for his money LOL

[Big G]

Well done :thumbsup:

Do you feel as though you need to lose weight, or just looking to tone up / feel fitter? Your weight seems to be within a fairly healthy range - if you're taller than 5ft 9in then your BMI is falling into the healthy category. Great that you're feeling fitter anyway, endorphines can work wonders :)

I don't really care what weight I am. Given that I'm the same height and weight as Lance Armstrong right now lol.

I just want to loose my belly and tone up a bit. Also be able to marshall frantically without needing a lie down afterwards!

My cycling has already shown an improvement in my health after only 130 miles. my resting heart rate is pretty decent at around 70bpm.

[ben]

Just started this whole getting fit malarkey myself on monday.

Will report back in a few weeks with some figures.. :eh?:

[wezzer]

i have gone from 106kg to 92 in 3 months , all it took was my gf of 19 years to leave !!
Bitch !!
not bitter or twisted mind ;-)

[James]

I thought I would add my little story here as well...

A few weeks back I decided that enough was enough, and I really needed to get something done about my weight. I've been around 100kg for years (height 5'10" btw)... lowest I've been was 98 a few years back for a sailing event, but as it was a quick drop (2weeks), lost a load of strength too.

As a bit more background, last Nov I moved out to China, and whilst I was riding to work everyday back in the UK, since being here I've hardly done much to help matters. My fitness level as a result has suffered, and my weight has slowly creeped up to above 102kg. Part of my big issue has always been that I've also enjoyed food (usually not the good stuff as well) a bit too much, and tended to eat a lot in the evenings.

Anyway, like I said before, a few weeks back I decided enough was enough. Part the of the reason was the lady telling me that she would like me thinner... and that pushed me over the edge.

So for the past few weeks, I've been running 2-3 times a week, and doing some smaller exercises at home each day. Also on a non-running day, try to mix it up with cycling and swimming.
I'm also making a concerted effort to eat less (especially in the evenings), and eat better, and drinking a lot more water instead of other things. And that includes completely cutting out alcohol for the time being, although that is more to do with the below.

I have another goal as well, as a colleague mentioned about doing a half-marathon in shanghai in Dec, which I've agreed to do. I've never done anything like that before... but figure it gives me a good target to work too.

Self-motivation has always been a big issue for me, but with people around me pushing me, it certainly helps.

So far, I started out at 103kg four weeks ago, and last week when I weighed myself I was down to 101.5kg. Not a huge amount, but I've decided the best thing is not to become fixated on the actual weight. My main targets are to look better and be fitter, and I figure the weight will follow as a consequence.

I do have a general target of 80-85kg, any less than that and I think I would be a bit weak, and as I have a larger build will struggle to get less.

On the fitness side, already seeing big improvements. At the start I could hardly run 4K without stopping... this week alone I've already done two 12K runs (one being an interval style session), and plan to do a 15K before the end of the week.

Ok, the times are below the target I have for the half marathon (2hr 10min), but at the moment I'm concentrating on getting the endurance, and then speed can come latter.

At the very least, I am already starting to see a difference. I look thinner, can grab a less around the middle, and well, the distances on the runs speak for themselves... so far, so good..

Regards
Ed

Awesome stuff! Just wanted to say something learnt from personal experience though about the runs, you'd be better off doing more shorter runs, ie 5k than smashing in 10,12,15k'ers because the longer runs give your joints inparticular quite a hammering and you don't want to be off injured. Of course the long steady jogs are great for burning calories, but also with slightly shorter ones you can speed up each time which will increase your strength and so increase your metabolism so you'll be burning more calories even when you're not running..
Good Luck!

[Big G]

yeah James is always popping up on my run keeper putting in 1 to 4 mile runs :D

I agree the same with cycling. I never had a problem pounding my 7 mile circuit in 30mins or less and as soon as I put in a 14 mile ride my arms started developing issues. Apparently it's a common thing in cycling to get it. I just means I need to stay off the bike for 2-4 weeks now :(

[bondy]

yeah James is always popping up on my run keeper putting in 1 to 4 mile runs :D

I agree the same with cycling. I never had a problem pounding my 7 mile circuit in 30mins or less and as soon as I put in a 14 mile ride my arms started developing issues. Apparently it's a common thing in cycling to get it. I just means I need to stay off the bike for 2-4 weeks now :(


Whats a common thing ??? just curious ARM PUMP ? 2-4 weeks off.... I would DIE ! saying that its gym again tonight !

[ben]

! saying that its gym again tonight !

Same for me! Just payed my membership now :thumbsup:

[Big G]

Whats a common thing ??? just curious ARM PUMP ? 2-4 weeks off.... I would DIE ! saying that its gym again tonight !

http://www.sportsinjurybulletin.com/archive/cycling-injuries.html

[bondy]

Arr ! I see ! Yes early last year that was the case.. But I have upped the gym work this last year.. Weights.. Low Rows etc etc so my forearms are now like steel. I have dumbells in the bedroom and when watching telly I just sit /ly there pumping iron/twisting the wrists etc.

Still get a bit of numbness when riding the steel inbred with the carbon solid forks around rother valley,but only after 20 miles. Its got a bit rough there this last year .

4 weeks off... TO THE GYM !!! :thumbsup:

[SHY]

OK, here's my experience and advice:

Find some sort of online "weight club". I've used www.vektklubb.no (only in norwegian I think). The whole idea is that you register everything you eat and how much you excercise. Based on your weight, height, gender, age etc the calories and weight loss/gain are automatically calculated. You state how much and how fast you want to loose weight. It's really spot on!!! Doesen't matter what you eat, just stick to the planned max. calories intake each day and you'll get there!

I think it's hard (if not impossible) for most people to "intuitively" do it right "by yourself"... But after entering your intake for some weeks you get kinda subconscious as to what you can eat and how much. But if you get off track, start entering everything again!

Excercise is not at all crucial to loosing weight, but rather very good for your health, energy and life expectancy. 30 mins walk each day is more than enough!

Good luck!

[TryHard]

Awesome stuff! Just wanted to say something learnt from personal experience though about the runs, you'd be better off doing more shorter runs, ie 5k than smashing in 10,12,15k'ers because the longer runs give your joints inparticular quite a hammering and you don't want to be off injured. Of course the long steady jogs are great for burning calories, but also with slightly shorter ones you can speed up each time which will increase your strength and so increase your metabolism so you'll be burning more calories even when you're not running..
Good Luck!

Followed the advice today, just kept it to a short 5K... and promptly smashed my PB, and managed it in 29:03, which I was well chuffed with!

Thankfully, there's a 400m track that is open to the public all the time near where I live, so doing most of the training on there, as I have had issues with my ankles and knees before, so trying to be kind to them to start with! Followed more advice from my colleague, and run in the outside lane, whilst also doing half one direction and half the other so not to overload the ankles/knees unduly.
Whats more crazy is the 100+ chinese people that appeared from no-where at about 6pm tonight, and were just walking around the track... (envious) madness, but it's no wonder most of them are stick thin!

And as a good end to the day... getting dressed for going out for dinner (FYI, Sushi ;) ), realised I needed to use the next hole in on the belt to keep the jeans up.... OH YEAH! :thumbsup:

[TryHard]

Go on Eddy my boy !!! When will we see the new you back in the UK ?? :thumbsup:

Gonna be a year or so yet... will probably make a visit back sometime around May/June next year.

Good job on all the weight loss btw, have been following your story, and has given a bit of the inspiration I needed to get off my backside and do something myself :)

[Mrs oOple]

you'd be better off doing more shorter runs, ie 5k than smashing in 10,12,15k'ers because the longer runs give your joints inparticular quite a hammering and you don't want to be off injured.
Good Luck!

Funny you say that :bored:

I ran 12km with James today for charity, not just a standard 12km however, as this was the Mens Health 'survival of the fittest' race, and involved wading through cold water, crawling through mud, and climbing over mad obstacles. It was tough, and I feel knackered now.

We're raising money for memory loss this time, so if you get chance please sponsor us through just giving - it's easier than ever now as you can donate by text, ace! Just TEXT: "OOFC61 £2" to "70070" to DONATE £2 . It's to help people with memory loss.

Or visit http://www.justgiving.com/robinhoodwarriors to donate online, and help people with memory problems.

Blaggage over :)

Well done to everyone else putting in the effort, keep up the good work.

[TryHard]

So a small update.. 5weeks in, lost 3.5kg (just over 100, but I'd duck under with a good toilet stop!), gone in two holes on the belt, and the trousers are loose. Feel great too, less tired, and just generally have more oomph!! Colleagues are starting to to notice a difference, just got to keep on it now.
Although do have a nigling thigh strain, so staying off the running for a few days and keeping the leg strapped up and cool as a precaution.

[TryHard]

So, just to bring this back to life a little... yesterday was the big race... :)

Far surpassed my expectations, did the 21km in 2hrs 1minute... completely destroying my PB in the process (took almost 15minutes out of it!). Can honestly say I was pretty emmotional when i crossed the line, never done anything quite like it before, and very proud. Given 3months back I could hardly run 2K at all, well... I'm stoked!
Properly got the bug to do it again as well. Something pretty amazing about running down The Bund in Shanghai with 5,000 other people in the morning. Also going to look into triathlons as well...
Oh, and also now at 94Kg (so hit that target as well!)... although along with my training partner and some work colleagues, did our best to undo the hard work as a reward. Still, 21bottles of champagne (1 for each km), between 8 of us, in 3hours, say no more except.... fuzzzy head today!

[MrJoshua]

I joined Weight Watchers 5 weeks ago and have now lost 1 stone (14lb / 6.35Kg). It hasn't really felt like I'm on a "diet" - just making sure my portion sizes are realistic and logging everything I eat.

I've done "fad" diets in the past and have often lost 10lb the first WEEK of my diet, but that's just mainly carb/water loss which goes back on very quickly after eating carbs again.

This feels like a much more healthy way of eating - lots of fresh fruit and veg and lean meat. But if I fancy an ice cream or a beer, I can have one as long as I log it and I don't go over my daily points.

It sounds similar to the Norwegian website linked above.

I've got another 2 stone to lose before May next year (wedding!), but I want to carry on from there and get another 3 stone off if I can.

Good work to all of you that have lost weight :thumbsup:

[Mark Stiles]

Interesting thread this folks.

I guess I would describe myself as 'Bond-lite' - I've taken a similar approach after deciding that I was at risk of becoming a heart attack waiting to happen by the time I hit 40. There's a history of heart disease, diabetes and other such ailments in my family and I figured it would be easier to take preventative measures while I'm still young.

I've never been skinny and never will be - I'm fairly short and reasonably broad (thanks dad, not!), so with that in mind I don't pay a huge amount of attention to BMI and other statistical data.

I'm in the convenient position whereby I have access to a gym at work for a small membership fee of £20 a month. The fee comes out of your paycheck and the staff are also qualified in giving advice on nutrition and diet, as well as there being a lovely young lady who does sports massages! :D So, in October 2010 I thought "sod it, I'll give it a go" and joined. One of the best things I've ever done if I'm honest!

Since then I've been going twice a week after work to do mostly cardio stuff - running, cycling and a occasionally rowing. Running, without any doubt, makes the biggest difference to weight loss. I was apprehensive at first, but once I'd started to lose some weight I got on a treadmill. After that the weight started to fall off more quickly and I quickly went from being ready to curl up and die after jogging for a couple of km, to being able to sustain a medium to fast paced jog for 8km or more, after which I could get on a bike and ride 20km without much hassle.

As well as the gym visits I made quite a big change to my eating habits. I don't really eat anything different, and I'm far from being someone who lives on salad, but I do eat much earlier in the day. I usually have an average breakfast, then eat a main meal at lunchtime and then something light in the evening. I cut down on carbohydrates, have brown bread whenever possible, and do things like have less sugar in cups of tea (tastes hideous to begin with, but you get used to it quickly and it's not bad at all then!). I also drink more water - keep a bottle of water next to my desk and have to refill it at least 3 times a day.

Last of all, after significant peer pressure from my work colleagues, I bought a mountain bike! I used to love my bike as a kid - went everywhere on it, but when I learnt to drive and then started uni it all fell by the wayside. I bought something decent - it wasn't cheap - but that means that I'm more keen to make use of it! A lot of bike shops do 0% finance, so I took that option and pay a bit off each month. I go out riding down some local-ish trails on a Friday with half a dozen guys from work, and also on my own at weekends. I've recently invested in some high power lighting so that I can go out in the dark too - great fun!

With the gym, and mountain biking if you're alone, the other essential bit of kit you'll need is an iPod - I have no idea where I'd be without mine! When you hit 'the wall' it's the only thing that keeps your legs moving sometimes!

So, after all that, what's my progress? Well, in October 2010 I was 105.3kg, which is quite a lot for someone who's only 5'9" tall. I'm now just under 90kg and look and feel a hell of a lot better for it. I went for an annual medical at work last month, and they said "your blood pressure is much lower than last year and is now more in line with where it should be for someone of your age..." - so I explained why. :) I'm aiming to shed another 10kg or so this year, and then the long term goal will be to keep it off.

As Steve has said - forget weights and building muscle, that will come later, and some of it naturally during the process of shedding weight through cadio exercise. My advice would also be to set yourself realistic short and long term targets that you know you can achieve. Start slowly and don't over-do it and burn yourself out - ramp up the work rate gradually. Once you get into it you'll find it strangeley rewarding and invigorating, and dare I say it, enjoyable!

[bondy]

Well 2 Years down and 12.5 stones.. Muscles are bulging under whats left and Im as strong and fit as I have ever been. Gym for 2 hrs a night every day and some MTB when we get the weather. Just another 2 stone ish to go but these are the toughest..

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk145/bigbadbond/angieandsteven.jpg

And yes thats the same lady... She has lost 5 stones... We keep pushing each other harder and harder... She can run better than me though.. Not ready for doing distance running yet.

[Neil Skull]

Great News Steve,

Keep going.:thumbsup:

[ben]

Lost my first stone :thumbsup:

[Big G]

good work all :)

[bondy]

Well They say to push yourself you need to set a goal. Well I set a beuty:) The Bupa Sheffield 10 K run on September 2nd 2012.
Me and the girlfriend entered and had a few training runs. An unscheduled trip to sick dad in portugal buggered up the training but hey I new I was fit lol. The problem was I was still to big to run. The Knees were killing and the hips were swollen and sore. I was in so much pain it was unbearable at times on the run but I grit my teeth and thanks to my loverly lady we finnished in a time of 1 hour 11 mins 57 seconds

http://i1161.photobucket.com/albums/q502/Steven_Bond/7f20c036.jpg

http://i1161.photobucket.com/albums/q502/Steven_Bond/ba2c5af2.png

http://i1161.photobucket.com/albums/q502/Steven_Bond/f5ebc0a9.png

http://i1161.photobucket.com/albums/q502/Steven_Bond/c1cb009b.png


Now back to the cycling :lol:

[stegger]

Well done steve :)

[bondy]

*2009LocationRenishaw, Sheffield , UKPosts245

Cheers guysI havent done much running after tge 10k . Been busy getting the legs and arse ready for the bhf ride this weekend.*But i have not stopped doing different stuff..*My lady teaches dancing street/comercial and last sunday they had a review where all the parents /friends/family come and watch what they have done over the year. There is a family dance where a family member is taught a few steps. I asked karen if she would teach me something and she said NO.Lol like i do as im told. So along with craig Husbabd of Niki "who owns the dance group with karen" we secretly learnt a dance. Then at the prime moment we surprised karen lol. Luckly she loved it as did everyone else. Judging by her screaming she loved it
So enjoy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f31KHjUzuLE&feature=youtube_gdata_player

[Dudders]

Been riding the new MTB bike for 9 weeks now and doing 50 miles a week on it. Also been on a diet of 2000 calories a day. Total loss is 16lbs at present which I'm very pleased with.

[fidspeed]

joining the downsize me club :D

after 30 years of being stood on my feet working all day for the last 3 years i have been mainly chained to an office desk .while this certainly has some redeeming features its not good for waistline

I walked past the bathroom mirror the other day and was almost in denial that it was actually me the scales dont lie 15st 11lb :o

so last two weeks been watching what i eat a bit more and dragged out an old tracksuit (more like a skinsuit for bradley wiggins now) and went for a walk two weeks later i just banged in a 10 mile jog with the local running club (mainly ladies section) there still a lot quicker than me but much easier on the eye to follow ;)

trip to the scales revealed 15 st dead so well pleased I'm never going to see the sub 3 hour marathons i used to run but its a good start and my goal is to get sub 12 stone for next years works xmas do

probably catch up with Bondy at the next worksop in jan

regards to all members of the downsize me club and keep going

fid

[Neil Skull]

A certain RC racer told me today he is losing 7 stone next year!! I wont name him! but i Hope he can do it! Lets see if he has the stomach (sorry for that) to come and announce to the world!!
Good luck either way! being healthy is a big plus when you get to over 35!

[Mrs oOple]

Wow great stuff - 7 stone in a year sounds like a big challenge!

Is anyone else making any weight loss pledges in the new year? I would pledge to lose the two stone that I've gained since starting this thread but I like my food too much so instead I'll work on getting out cycling and improving my general fitness levels.

I saw a friend on facebook using www.myfitnesspal.com which seems like a great resource, and makes you realise how many calories are in day to day meals.

Good luck everyone, congratulations on the success so far :)

[kaylon]

I'll be getting out and about.

I moved a couple of years ago to Cambridge for work and have put on over 2 stone (Ale, tasty tasty Ale)..

Need to loose it!! hehe. I'm using Myfitnesspal as a diary :D. I hope it helps.

J

[fidspeed]

up date

weight is stuck at 14st 12lb running about 25 mile a week watching what i eat a lot more getting fitter definitely but not losing weight gutted :thumbdown:

any one give me sensible advice ?

fid

[Dudders]

Maybe try a bike instead of running?

Also, I've been on 2000 calories a day :)

Lots a fair bit!

[Mrs oOple]

Fid - myfitnesspal is worth checking out, if you are watching what you eat it's a good way of keeping track of calories, some healthy foods contain a lot of calories.

[James]

I'm guessing you're just doing long steady runs Dave? You need to mix up a bit with some core strength and intervals with a bit more intensity. If you're just on long steady runs you'll only be burning calories when you're actually running and you'll plateau - which it sounds like you have, mix the training up with higher intensity and a bit of core work and maybe a few weights and you'll charge your muscles and metabolism up more so you'll burn more calories during rest, should bring you onto the next level. See you sunday :)

[Hpi_guy]

Anyone using the 6 pack abs app from the App Store? I got it the other week, I have done 1 weeks worth of training and already feeling the benefits, it's worth a shot

[fidspeed]

thanks james

i try to mix it up with club twice a week with different routines have manged to clear another 7lb over last couple of weeks so its now 14st 5/6lb so thats about 1 and a half stone since november

did manage a 50 min 10k on monday solo run so im getting there i dont do much other type of excercise but i couldnt bear the thought of spending good minipin money on gym fees :thumbsup:

im watching food intake more but still probably eating the wrong stuff
lckily have avoided crisps beer chocolate macccy d's etc i have been in mac's but managed to steel myself with a grilled chicken salad its probably not the best salad but its better than a burger :woot:

catch up sunday james

fid

[fidspeed]

now at 13st 9lb thats nearly 2 and a half stone gone now its getting very slow to lose now

all my trousers need belts and new holes :thumbsup:
still running hard and playing badminton aswell get the occasonal ache and pain buts thats old age not helping

on hols in the peak district soon better take me trainers

keep up the good work all fellow ooplers

nice to catch up with our glorious leader Mr Bond at worksop recently
good on ya fella !!

fid

[fidspeed]

another half stone again now riding at 13st 2lb nearly 3 stone now !!

run for life this sunday looking forward to belting round town with like minded fools

regards Dave

[TARTMAN]

see the web link www.tartman.myvi.com (http://www.tartman.myvi.com)

I have lost over a stone and half way into my 90 day challenge.

cheaper than anything else out there and healthier to.

Ideal for those wanting to build lean muscle to.

LOVE the Vi way.

You can also get your kit for FREE. So easy, message me for more.

The tastiest healthiest shakes ever!:thumbsup:

[bodgit]

After watching the program Fat Sick and Nearly Dead I decided to give it a go. I had lost 2 stones exactly just before xmas day over 3 months with normal dieting but put on 10lbs since.
I bought the juicer last Wednesday and started on Thursday. I've lost 8lb 2oz in just 4 days. I don't feel hungry which I thought I would and I cant exercise due to disc and other health problems.
Anyone else been trying this.

[racingben]

Thought I'd add to this. I've lost 8kg in the last 2 months using the myfitnesspal app on my phone / ipad. Trying to swim a couple of times a week but otherwise using the app just to make sure I'm eating sensibly.

[fidspeed]

now under 13st :thumbsup: a 3 stone loss since november still running hard and watching what i eat

its slow progress now but has been well worth the effort

never tried shakes and stuff may be worth looking into though

keep it up all fellow ooplers

[fidspeed]

another half stone gone 12st 7lb ish give a take a lb fluctation so very happy 12 month to lose 3 and a half stone so its not a quick fix

trying to keep it up will be hard badminton and running is helping been very lucky with health issues not had any :D

regards dave

[stegger]

Well done Dave ^^^ As you say it's a slow process ! The way I was told was " You've put it on slowly over the years, so take it off slowly " But not that slow !!!! Ha ha...
I can't run due to a damaged hip joint but I've been weight training at the local gym and have now lost 2st 4 lbs which has got me in the 15st area :thumbsup: Which is the lightest I have been in over 20 years.
Food wise, I've cut out a lot of carbs and mostly just eating meat, fish, LOADS of eggs, Veg, fruit (non tropical ) except banana's and nuts. Over 4 ltr's of water a day with obvious side effects !!!! hahaha.

Steve

[fidspeed]

keep going steve

im lucky in that I can run fairly easily im averaging 20-25 mile a week but I cant face paying gym fees:thumbdown:

I do eat better but not good enough really and I keep forgetting to drink enough water

id like to get to 12st but at nearly 50 years young it may be a bit optimistic

regards dave

[stegger]

50 !! I'm only 5 years off you mate ;) I found it hard to motivate myself. But going the gym 3 times a week and a Personal trainer once a week has given me that motivation. Horses for courses I suppose.

[bondy]

Well after 4 years of hard work.... unbelievably I found a woman that would put up with me and the toy car racing...so I married her :)

http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk145/bigbadbond/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_92458665663455_zps9iomndg8.jpeg

[fidspeed]

congratulations steve

hope is all going well and the weight is still coming off too !

ive been injured but back in the groove again now just lost a bit of speed

catch up one day

dave

[bondy]

Nope :(
in fact I have put a bit on..:cry:

It was to be expected though as after my BIG OP I could not do much for 6-8 months.

Just getting back into it now though although stomach and back are a bit dodgy as the surgen had to cut through some muscle so I have to be careful until it fully recovers.:thumbdown:

Plus I have been enjoying myself aswell... tut tut .:lol:

Big push from now on to get back the fitness and loose the Wedding/honeymoon/ beers and food etc.:p

Watch this space in next 3 months... :p

[fidspeed]

good lad steve

id shoved a stone back on over 2 months layoff :cry:

now got rid of half of it but cant shift the other at the minute

will keep on trying

fid

[fidspeed]

Injured again :(
just starting to really shift again and now knee ligament damage

gutted:thumbdown:

Dave

[outspokencrummy]

I am currently on a keto diet, just on my 2nd day. so far still coping