Need to loose 20 lbs!!!! By November

hey
I just started MFP I don't know if it going to work or not.... I need to loose 20 lbs by November 2015.... I am 5'1 157 lbs... What kinds of things I can do to to reach my goal... And what kind of food to eat as well.

Xoxo
«1

Replies

  • Bshmerlie
    Bshmerlie Posts: 1,026 Member
    Short of chopping off a limb I don't think its possible at your current weight to lose 20 pounds in two months. Set up your info in MFP, set up a plan and stick to it religiously. You're will lose some weight and feel better for sure. What makes November so important?
  • mitasuri
    mitasuri Posts: 41 Member
    I wanna do. 5 k run for first time for my husband and its on Las Vegas !!!'
  • queenliz99
    queenliz99 Posts: 15,317 Member
    Why do you need to lose 20 pounds to run a 5K?
  • mitasuri
    mitasuri Posts: 41 Member
    Because I cannot do it without weight loss Iam over weight
  • Ninkyou
    Ninkyou Posts: 6,666 Member
    I don't think your goal of 20 lbs at your current stats in that amount of time is realistic, at all. Maybe 8-10 lbs would be more realistic for you. Also, are you new to running? Have you been training for a 5k at all?

    If you're new to weight loss AND running, I would suggest focusing on one thing at a time. Either focus on losing weight, or focus on training for the 5k. HOWEVER, even 5k training programs, like Couch 2 5k are 9 week programs, on the low spectrum. Many people end up having to repeat some weeks. Please don't think you can just start running 5k's right off the bat. Even a 5k to a new runner is something of a feat. I'm not trying to discourage you, but you need to have realistic expectations. You also need to make sure you're getting enough calories to fuel your training. Don't go all balls to the wall with it either or you're going to end up with a case of "too much too soon" and hurt yourself (which happened to me, believe me, you don't want to experience that pain).
  • jessiefrancine
    jessiefrancine Posts: 271 Member
    Last I checked, Las Vegas did not have a maximum weight limit for entry. You'd be better off focusing on the running so you can handle the event, rather than starving yourself to try and make weight. Check out "couch to 5k" programs if you are new to running. You should be able to make good progress on one of those by November.
  • Ninkyou
    Ninkyou Posts: 6,666 Member
    edited September 2015
    mitasuri wrote: »
    Because I cannot do it without weight loss Iam over weight

    Plenty of overweight people can run 5k's. I'm 10 lbs over weight and I ran my first 5k when I was 20 lbs over weight, plus I had just found out I was pregnant a few days before.

    Don't think those are limitations. Any person who works hard enough and trains properly can run a 5k.

    ETA: I just saw you have another thread regarding Phentermine for weight loss. Please don't think you can run a 5k and take Phentermine simultaneously. Phentermine is an appetite suppressant, and as such, you'd probably not be taking in enough calories to fuel a proper running/training program. You'll end up crashing and burning awfully quick.
  • mitasuri
    mitasuri Posts: 41 Member
    Maybe your right I need to lose weight first then focus on 5 k.... Iam so confused on where to start what workout to do???? What to eat??? So new to all this and plus this aap is not accurate on some things
  • Bshmerlie
    Bshmerlie Posts: 1,026 Member
    Hmmm....a 5 K is about three miles. You could walk the 5K in about an hour. So I would think anything less than an hour would be good. :)
  • Ninkyou
    Ninkyou Posts: 6,666 Member
    mitasuri wrote: »
    Maybe your right I need to lose weight first then focus on 5 k.... Iam so confused on where to start what workout to do???? What to eat??? So new to all this and plus this aap is not accurate on some things
    You can do any kind of activity you enjoy. You can walk, you can dance, you can lift weights... anything that holds your interest and that you can sustain.

    As for what to eat... eat your current foods. Log them into your diary and fit them into your (realistic) calorie goal.
    First step is to work on logging consistently, everyday.
  • AquaFan
    AquaFan Posts: 309 Member
    If you are interested in running, I highly recommend the above mentioned C25K. It got this non-runner to fall in love with running. As for what to eat, you have to do your research and find out what works for you. I'd say start by logging EVERYTHING you eat. Consistency is the key.
  • mitasuri
    mitasuri Posts: 41 Member
    Iam not taking Phentermine I wAs wondering if it helps with weight loss ???
    Ninkyou wrote: »
    mitasuri wrote: »
    Because I cannot do it without weight loss Iam over weight

    Plenty of overweight people can run 5k's. I'm 10 lbs over weight and I ran my first 5k when I was 20 lbs over weight, plus I had just found out I was pregnant a few days before.

    Don't think those are limitations. Any person who works hard enough and trains properly can run a 5k.

    ETA: I just saw you have another thread regarding Phentermine for weight loss. Please don't think you can run a 5k and take Phentermine simultaneously. Phentermine is an appetite suppressant, and as such, you'd probably not be taking in enough calories to fuel a proper running/training program. You'll end up crashing and burning awfully quick.

  • mitasuri
    mitasuri Posts: 41 Member
    Thanks every one
  • ammo7
    ammo7 Posts: 188 Member
    mitasuri wrote: »
    Maybe your right I need to lose weight first then focus on 5 k.... Iam so confused on where to start what workout to do???? What to eat??? So new to all this and plus this aap is not accurate on some things

    To lose weight, the fundamental thing you need to do is to eat at a caloric deficit; you don't need to worry about the "right" foods to eat. Working out is a bonus for your health, and a fun thing to do, but you don't need to worry about the "right" workout.

    This means that once you've input your stats (height, weight etc.) into MFP and chosen a goal (e.g. 0.5 lb per week weight loss - be realistic if you don't have much to lose) you just need to eat the number of calories that it tells you to eat each day. You can choose whatever foods you like; I personally like to eat lots of volume of foods to feel full, so I usually choose to eat many low-calorie meals each day. You can choose to eat what you want, when you want - as long as you eat the right number of calories. Log everything you eat and drink. It's best to use a kitchen scale to weigh your foods so that you can be accurate in your logging.

    Stick to MFP and you will lose weight - it will take some time, but it will be a consistent and healthy weight loss. Good luck with your goals :)
  • mitasuri
    mitasuri Posts: 41 Member
    I want loose like 2 lbs per week you think it's possible???
  • bringon30
    bringon30 Posts: 75 Member
    edited September 2015
    You can lose weight while preparing for your 5K. Your starting stats are close to what mine were. I started at 153 and I am 5'2". I agree that 20 pounds by November isn't realistic or safe. Just maintain a calorie deficit and start your running program. Cardio exercise is great for your heart. Just start slowly and increase over time. The C25K program is great. You can find plenty of apps for it to help you along. By November, you'll be ready for that 5K!
  • mitasuri
    mitasuri Posts: 41 Member
    Thanks Iam doing a lot of Eliptical I hope that's help



    bringon30 wrote: »
    You can lose weight while preparing for your 5K. Your starting stats are close to what mine were. I started at 153 and I am 5'2". I agree that 20 pounds by November isn't realistic or safe. Just maintain a calorie deficit and start your running program. Cardio exercise is great for your heart. Just start slowly and increase over time. The C25K program is great. You can find plenty of apps for it to help you along. By November, you'll be ready for that 5K!

  • queenliz99
    queenliz99 Posts: 15,317 Member
    mitasuri wrote: »
    Thanks Iam doing a lot of Eliptical I hope that's help



    bringon30 wrote: »
    You can lose weight while preparing for your 5K. Your starting stats are close to what mine were. I started at 153 and I am 5'2". I agree that 20 pounds by November isn't realistic or safe. Just maintain a calorie deficit and start your running program. Cardio exercise is great for your heart. Just start slowly and increase over time. The C25K program is great. You can find plenty of apps for it to help you along. By November, you'll be ready for that 5K!

    You need to run on the road. Elliptical ain't gonna cut it.
  • mitasuri
    mitasuri Posts: 41 Member


    What kind of full meals to you
    Take ???

    ammo7 wrote: »
    mitasuri wrote: »
    Maybe your right I need to lose weight first then focus on 5 k.... Iam so confused on where to start what workout to do???? What to eat??? So new to all this and plus this aap is not accurate on some things

    To lose weight, the fundamental thing you need to do is to eat at a caloric deficit; you don't need to worry about the "right" foods to eat. Working out is a bonus for your health, and a fun thing to do, but you don't need to worry about the "right" workout.

    This means that once you've input your stats (height, weight etc.) into MFP and chosen a goal (e.g. 0.5 lb per week weight loss - be realistic if you don't have much to lose) you just need to eat the number of calories that it tells you to eat each day. You can choose whatever foods you like; I personally like to eat lots of volume of foods to feel full, so I usually choose to eat many low-calorie meals each day. You can choose to eat what you want, when you want - as long as you eat the right number of calories. Log everything you eat and drink. It's best to use a kitchen scale to weigh your foods so that you can be accurate in your logging.

    Stick to MFP and you will lose weight - it will take some time, but it will be a consistent and healthy weight loss. Good luck with your goals :)

  • mitasuri
    mitasuri Posts: 41 Member
    What about walking on treadmill ??? Running on road I am
    Little scared to do that....

    queenliz99 wrote: »
    mitasuri wrote: »
    Thanks Iam doing a lot of Eliptical I hope that's help



    bringon30 wrote: »
    You can lose weight while preparing for your 5K. Your starting stats are close to what mine were. I started at 153 and I am 5'2". I agree that 20 pounds by November isn't realistic or safe. Just maintain a calorie deficit and start your running program. Cardio exercise is great for your heart. Just start slowly and increase over time. The C25K program is great. You can find plenty of apps for it to help you along. By November, you'll be ready for that 5K!

    You need to run on the road. Elliptical ain't gonna cut it.

  • mitasuri
    mitasuri Posts: 41 Member
    Running on road makes
    Me little nervous
  • queenliz99
    queenliz99 Posts: 15,317 Member
    Why are you afraid to run on the road? You know the 5k is held on a road.
  • ammo7
    ammo7 Posts: 188 Member
    mitasuri wrote: »

    What kind of full meals to you
    Take ???

    ammo7 wrote: »
    mitasuri wrote: »
    Maybe your right I need to lose weight first then focus on 5 k.... Iam so confused on where to start what workout to do???? What to eat??? So new to all this and plus this aap is not accurate on some things

    To lose weight, the fundamental thing you need to do is to eat at a caloric deficit; you don't need to worry about the "right" foods to eat. Working out is a bonus for your health, and a fun thing to do, but you don't need to worry about the "right" workout.

    This means that once you've input your stats (height, weight etc.) into MFP and chosen a goal (e.g. 0.5 lb per week weight loss - be realistic if you don't have much to lose) you just need to eat the number of calories that it tells you to eat each day. You can choose whatever foods you like; I personally like to eat lots of volume of foods to feel full, so I usually choose to eat many low-calorie meals each day. You can choose to eat what you want, when you want - as long as you eat the right number of calories. Log everything you eat and drink. It's best to use a kitchen scale to weigh your foods so that you can be accurate in your logging.

    Stick to MFP and you will lose weight - it will take some time, but it will be a consistent and healthy weight loss. Good luck with your goals :)

    It depends on how lazy I'm feeling about preparing food! For example, I just had a quick 'lunch' that was only 100 calories - it was 65 grams of reheated chicken, 65 grams of spinach and 50 grams of cucumber slices. This is a big plate of food, for a tiny amount of calories.
    There is a section of the forums all about food - you should check it out for inspiration :)
    Truly, you can eat whatever you want as long as you are careful with the portion sizes. Pick a meal that you would usually eat, then log it to see how many calories it would be. If it's more calories than you can fit into your goal, make it less calories by eating half of it (for example) or removing/substituting a high-calorie ingredient (e.g. cooking with less oil)
  • seeingthelight
    seeingthelight Posts: 128 Member
    How old are you? I'm 5'2" and when I was in my 30's I could lose 2# per week. I did it by eating about 1400 calories a day and exercising at least 1/2 hour a day, but I was also very active, worked full time in a job that required a lot of walking, took care of 5 kids and cooked and cleaned when home. Unfortunately I put that weight back on because I didn't build a healthy lifestyle, and now, in my late 60's I have 30#s to lose and am lucky to lose .5#s per week. The point of this story is, don't fixate on losing weight to just lose weight! Take some time and do some research and figure out how to eat and exercise to maintain your health. It doesn't have to be fancy, 3-5 servings of fruits and vegetable, protein(you know, eggs, meat, milk & cheese, beans) and some whole grains. Log everyday and try to get the amounts of macros mfp recommends, and try to stay within the calorie guidelines. Then add some exercise, walking, biking, going to the gym for some weight training. You need fuel to build muscle and thats what you need, whether you are planning to run a 5k, or not, so don't try to cut too many calories, eat back some of those exercise calories. You will lose weight slowly but you will also build muscle so you will look better sooner than you would if you just lost weight. Before you know you will have some good habits and look and feel great. Good luck! :);):o:p
  • kathyk519
    kathyk519 Posts: 197 Member
    I am 5ft, and when I was about 170 lbs, I ran a 5k and was fine. At that point, I was actively losing weight and had lost about 20 lbs. It's about endurance, and getting your body to be able to run. If you want to do the 5k, you will regardless of your weight. I can say that by training for the 5k, you will lose. For me, the running, and eating at a deficit was the quintessential piece that helped me lose. I know that when I first started eating at a deficit, and exercising more, I did lose the first 20 fairly quickly, but I was starting at a higher weight.

    I suggest making it easy on yourself in terms of meal prep. For me, it was about using a portion of Sundays to make a huge pot of soup for the week for lunches, packing things the night before for lunches and for exercise, eating a salad with dinner, so that no matter what else I had, I was starting with that. Weighing and measuring is key, and knowing what you are putting in your body.
  • LoveIshie
    LoveIshie Posts: 94 Member
    @Mitasuri, I can send to your MFP inbox a workout regiment training for running to follow if you are interested. As far as meal, you have to stick to the MFP recommended caloric intake per day. In general, I will recommend high protein, low carbs diet. But if you have to eat carbs go for whole grain. As for rice, if you see enriched or bleached o the package, that means it is processed so don't buy it.

    Bottom line, at your weight you can train for a 5k and be able to finish. You don't dont need to lose weight to run/prepare for a 5k. Your focu & challenges here is aerobic/physical endurance. You will probably lose some weight during your training, but probably wont be able to meet your 20lb goal by November. So you've got to choose (5K or lose weight). It can't be both. Maybe after the race you can focus on weight loss.
  • bringon30
    bringon30 Posts: 75 Member
    edited September 2015
    Why are people telling OP she can't lose weight and train for a 5K at the same time? It isn't difficult to log your calories and follow a training app. I am just one of countless people who have done just that.
  • DianaLovesCoffee
    DianaLovesCoffee Posts: 398 Member
    edited September 2015
    bringon30 wrote: »
    Why are people telling OP she can't lose weight and train for a 5K at the same time? It isn't difficult to log your calories and follow a training app. I am just one of countless people who have done just that.

    I did it too! I've lost 25 pounds over 6 months while doing couch to 5k. I eat at a deficit. I eat what I want within my calorie limits. I eat more on my run days - yay! I cheat sometimes. I'm "good" most times. I started 65 pounds overweight and am older/menopausal. So if I can do it OP probably can too. (Although probably not 20 pounds by November)
  • frando
    frando Posts: 583 Member
    reality will hurt when it hits you.

    Follow the app, and also look into the C25K you'll find it very useful.

    Good luck
  • bringon30
    bringon30 Posts: 75 Member
    bringon30 wrote: »
    Why are people telling OP she can't lose weight and train for a 5K at the same time? It isn't difficult to log your calories and follow a training app. I am just one of countless people who have done just that.

    I did it too! I've lost 25 pounds over 6 months while doing couch to 5k. I eat at a deficit. I eat what I want within my calorie limits. I eat more on my run days - yay! I cheat sometimes. I'm "good" most times. I started 65 pounds overweight and am older/menopausal. So if I can do it OP probably can too. (Although probably not 20 pounds by November)

    I agree with not 20 pounds by November!