First Day Back

freec78

I'm back in the saddle for the first time in a while today. When I left the Army, I weighed in at 203 lbs. 10 years later, I'm now at 340. I've had some success in the past with losing 30 - 70 lbs but somehow I always managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory and gain it all back.

Regarding diet, my biggest challenge lies in preparation. I simply can't find the time to stay consistent with preparing good, whole food meals. Once I fall off the wagon, I typically go back into "I'll start again next Monday" mode. I can't tell you how many pounds of fruit, veggies and lean protein I've thrown away over time after walking away from the plan and allowing it all to spoil.

As far as activity goes, I'm taking a more moderate approach this time. "Better than yesterday" is my goal rather than trying to quickly get to where I once was. I simply am not that young soldier than can run 8 miles a day any longer. If I get there one day, that's great. Right now, I'm just trying to stay out of my own head and focus on improvement rather than perfection.

Not sure how this forum thing goes or if anyone even reads these...if nothing else, maybe thinking through my day/decisions/habits via writing will help the process along.

Best,

Shane in Arkansas

suruda

Welcome back Shane! you have to change your self talk...instead of "I'll start over Monday", try "I'll start again with my next meal or snack". I find that logging everything, even those foods that I think are bad helps me see how bad they really are or aren't. Sometimes, those foods can fit just fine in to your eating plan.

Best quote I read today so far was "Weight loss starts in the kitchen, fitness happens in the gym". Both are easier if you are working on both of them together!

I find the forums helpful for education, inspiration and motivation...I know many never get on here though and still have great success.

I look forward to following your journey!