Spinning my wheels, hoping for traction

Bucky2BeBetty

So I've been on MFP for a year now and I've lost 32 pounds. Doesn't seem like a lot compared to most people on here but I've had to accept that my body at age 52 is simply going to lose weight at a snail's pace unless I completely eliminate all junk food which I see as unrealistic or spend two hours a day at the gym. It is more than I've ever lost before, though, and I know that if I stick with it, I will achieve my goal weight eventually. Besides, I am more concerned with keeping it off forever than with losing it fast.

That said, I have a week off from work so I actually have extra time to dedicate to the cause for the next few days. I would love to give myself an extra boost this week. Any ideas for food, workouts, schedules, books, to push me further along?

love22step

You've been consistent and it's working! Can't argue with that. I know you primarily use the elliptical and do some walking. Have you thought about adding strength training to tone your muscles as you lose? There are several advantages--toning, strengthening, sparking your metabolism. I use and like Chalean Extreme DVDs (from Beachbody), but I see great reviews for the book, The New Rules of Lifting for Women. I want to get a copy for myself. You might just add pushups and situps every other day, if you're not already doing them. Meanwhile, you're doing what works for you, and you're doing great. As summer approaches and the days get longer, you may want to take up tennis or swimming or other outdoor activities. I'm older than you, and I'm enjoying the C25K running plan. Whatever you do, have fun with it!

militarydreams

32 lbs is a lot... go to your cupboards and pull out a load of stuff that adds up to 32lbs or 14.5 kilos. Trust me when I say that isn't the sort of weight you'll see people throwing around, most people would struggle to carry it more than a mile or two let alone everywhere, everyday. It doesn't matter what other people have achieved in life, what you've done is special and should be exactly that in your mind. If we all thought about how our achievements compared to others then we'd never be happy with anything. Well done on your current loss :flowerforyou:

As for workouts, its getting to that time of year when the air starts to warm up outside so cycling and running are back in. If you're new to running it can be tough but there are a few structured plans out there like C25K if that sort of thing helps you.

Best of luck

kayteesb

Job well done! I am inspired by your success and progress.
I am fairly new to MFP and I just have not been as consistent as I'd like to be. Some weeks are better than others. I enjoy working out (currently in CrossFit) but I often fall off with my eating. For instance, I am feeling really motivated now and I hope to stay this way being that I have 8 weeks until I go on vacation. I usually start off really psyched & fall off for some reason. Not sure if it is pure laziness or poor planning or a combination of both.My workouts are great when I am at CrossFit but I need more cardio on my own. I am stronger than ever before but I need to lean out as well. That's where the cardio comes in. My plan is to add 3 days of cardio in every week. I've even written out a plan of exercises to do on those days. I start today on lunch.
I am hoping to be more disciplined and like you, I prefer to lose it and keep it off than lose it fast. My hope is to be consistent with my nutrition and exercise going forward. I have 35lbs to lose and I am starting now.