Fell off the MFP wagon, back again

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Hopefully the third time is the charm..

I'm back to MFP and I'm ready to stick this this...because I have to. I recently rejoined the reigns of the armed forces and I am trying to rapidly, even if it's rather unhealthy, go from 250 down to 225 lbs by mid January when I have my first swim test for them. I don't want to be the only fat guy jumping in the pool at age 30. People tell me all the time I am not fat, but I see it, I feel it. My waist is 40" and my neck is 19.5"

Thoughts on a gym routine? Thoughts on the more important aspect, dieting?

I don't want to take any diet pills, so please don't mention them.

Thanks again!