Hello....again

innocenceportrayed

I am not new, in fact this is probably my 3rd try for a lifestyle change. I'm going to turn 25 this weekend and I've realized that I cannot eat what I used to without gaining weight, also I found out recently that heart problems run in my family (biological father and his mother both have heart issues). I work at the local theater in concession (while I'm in my master's program--its more flexible than a 9-5) so I am often on my feet, although I don't move too far which doesn't help any (and there's unlimited soda and popcorn to snack on all day....). Yesterday I found myself walking the halls and doing "parimeter checks" around the building because of boredom and wanting to move. Ideally, I'd like to lose about 40 pounds, but I doubt I can get back to my high school weight easily. I've always struggled with weight and body image. My biggest problem areas are my thighs and arms, my arms more than my thighs. I always feel like I have bat wings and could fly away at any moment, despite knowing the thought is absurd. I would love to find people in my area (Tampa Bay, specifically north tampa bay --wesley chapel, dade city, zephyrhills) to work out with. I'm a competitive person so if I have someone to work with, I strive for more.

My first plan is to cut out soda, or at least limit my intake way more than I do now. I'm going to take baby steps so I can make it a habit instead of a temporary fix. After I get the soda under control (which I really don't drink a lot at home, maybe 1 can every other day but because it's unlimited at work I've been trying to get off dr pepper and pepsi and have been drinking sierra mist mixed with pink lemonade) then I want to really start working on caloric intake and exercise, I love walking and running(asthma limits my running to intervals) and I enjoy lifting weights as well but I always feel my form is off and would like to find a personal trainer nearby (that I can afford is the problem) to guide me for a while before I'm comfortable doing it on my own. My core is actually strong and I can typically hold a plank for 1.5-2 minutes (that seems like a lot for me, maybe it's not).

Anyway. That's my plan for now. I would love to add people even not in my area just to help me keep on track and I can offer positive words to in return.