270 pounds at 29 years old... Time for change.

My name is Tiffany, I am a nursing student set to graduate in December of this year. I always do so well in losing weight over the breaks from school but gain a ridiculous amount of weight when class is in session. I have a foot condition that has led to me requiring a rigid orthotic at all times, hip, and back pain. I am not allowed to jog, run, or jump and have to limit walking for exercise because of the foot condition. I feel so much older than I really am, and am more than ready for a permanent lifestyle change. I did Atkins last summer and lost 25+ pounds but quickly gained it back. I am currently trying to focus more on whole, unprocessed foods. I struggle with feelings of inadequacy and low self esteem. I recently went to Disney world with my 3 year old & family and realized just how out of shape I am especially for someone who is about to turn 30. These should have been the best years of my life but they have been the darkest. I am going to resume workout videos at home and bike riding for exercise. I am shooting for 1500-1800 calories per day. My goals are: 1. Lose 120 pounds, 2. start lifting weights once I am under 200 pounds, 3. feel better about myself. I'd really like to meet some people who have overcome their fears and feelings of inadequacy and are on their way to goal or at goal as well as people just starting back up. I'd love to give & get some encouragement! Today starts my new way of life. :bigsmile:

Replies

  • missmidge84
    missmidge84 Posts: 100 Member
    Hi! I started at almost 265, so I know where you're coming from. I'm 28. My piece of advice - don't wait to start lifting weights! Start now. You want to preserve as much lean muscle as possible while you're losing weight. Lifting weights will help you achieve this. I started working with weights in November, and it's been great. Good luck! Feel free to friend me if you'd like.
  • I started today...right at 242. I am 39 though :) feel free to add me! I need encouragement too!
  • HappyMeLovely
    HappyMeLovely Posts: 134 Member
    Glad to know that I'm not alone, thanks for the advice! Friend requests have been sent :) I'm interesting in weight lifting but have no idea where to start... my workout dvds have some basic arms stuff and I use by body weight for the rest.
  • meggyshae
    meggyshae Posts: 357 Member
    Hey! I'm also a nursing student set to graduate this December as well! I started at 281 lbs 9 months ago and have lost 103 lbs and only have 28 to go til goal weight. IT IS possible! I also have a 2.5 year old daughter. It just takes a strong mind and the will and determination to not be defeated! You can do it!!!
  • 1two3four
    1two3four Posts: 413 Member
    I'm going to be 30 in a few weeks and started at 287. I have hip, knee and back pain from a life-long condition and have done my time with hinged AFOs. I've definitely had my ups and downs during my time here but this is very possible even with limited ability to exercise. I do as much walking as I can and occasionally time with pilates DVDs, bands and light weights. I count all activity that I don't do EVERY day as exercise. That includes heavy cleaning or long shopping trips!

    I would absolutely suggest not waiting on the strength training.

    Feel free to add me. I am not great for much but I'm good for support and cheerleading (most of the time anyway, I've gotten quiet lately but I've been stressing too much. Once I get that under control it I'll be much less quiet!!)

    ETA: And even if I'm quiet on my status updates or friends newsfeeds I'm always reachable via PM... I log daily and always check out that kind of thing as well.
  • Chickyjd
    Chickyjd Posts: 136 Member
    Hi, I'm currently using my treadmill 3/4 times per week and just started looking into lifting.... I Love the treadmill and try to push myself further each time, I've lost 28lbs to date but want to lose at least another 40/50lbs!!! Looking for motivational friends who offer support back! (Would really like friends that comment! lol) I'm always around to offer advice and support too :) Please feel free to add me :)
  • lisiloulah
    lisiloulah Posts: 125 Member
    Hi,

    I just turned 28 and I weighted 267 at the end of last year - It's been slow going for me loosing the weight as I've been busy with work and doing a course at college, but I'm getting there slowly and with my course nearly finished I'll be able to get to the gym a bit more often too!

    I'm in the same boat in regards to Strength training - I don't know where to start, but I'm concentrating on cardio at the moment and I'm going to start adding strength training in soon.

    Lisa x
  • aTallLiam
    aTallLiam Posts: 75
    I weighed around 290-320 pounds when I started dieting, now I'm around 245 :D It's hard, but it's worth it. Once you lose the first 50 pounds it's an amazing feeling :D
  • krouse83
    krouse83 Posts: 182 Member
    Hey! I totally know how you feel. I am turning 30 in 2 weeks (yikes!) and I started my MFP journey at 272. I'm 5'9 so I don't look my weight but I definitly feel the weight. Its a long hard journey, but we can do it. I love that you have goals, but make smaller goals too and focus on those. Its easy to get dissapointed when you don't reach the big goals quickly, but setting small goals like 5 lbs in the month of June is easy and keeps you motivated. I'm sending you a friend request so you can follow me as well. Welcome!!!