New to MFP

TehGTrain

Hey guys,

Aussie here, I'm new to MFP, calorie counting (I've heard for so long that its important but never bothered.. too hard, etc) and making some long term lifestyle choices in terms of food intake and just taking control back from a long list of bad habits that have lead me to where I am now(5"10, 120kg... big boned, right?)

Small amount of back-story: after almost a decade of shift work, I finally got out of it last year and was starting to get some routine back, as well as getting in a bit of cardio and weight training most days. Diet wasn't horrible at work because it was easier to plan things but dinner at nights wouldn't go so great(too much snacking!). Then, in March, I slipped and broke my ankle(Weber #C fracture).

After 2 lots of surgery, 7 months of working from home and physio for the last 4 months, I've finally returned to work. I didn't actually put on much weight(gained 2 kgs) during this time, but I've definitely lost what little muscle mass I had and so I’m sure the amount of body fat gained is much higher. However, as I continue to rehab and work on the ankle, this will change.

In my younger years, I've had success with focusing on heavy weight lifting(Starting Strength is a great program!) but the last few years, I've slacked off, struggled with life(emotionally, spiritually, etc) and had a few knee-related issues that required surgery. Sure, things haven't been great but there are so many people that are worse off but have had amazing success... so I've had to realise that these are simply excuses for not wanting the change.

Currently, I've just been focusing on eating better and doing cardio every lunchtime at work. I know strength is important and weight lifting will eventually be incorporated into my routine but I don't want to jump into too many things at once. And I'd like to spend a bit more time just focusing on the ankle before I start kicking my own *kitten* with weights.

Anyways, I've not been able to find this in my own circle of friends so I am looking for a support/accountability group as I don't imagine things will always be this easy.. at least in the short term!

edit: grammar/typos fixed.

lcmoths92

Hello there, I can understand your ankle issues and how it tends to limit your workout sessions. Ive broken my right ankle twice but tore the ligament in it 3 times and this january had surgery on it because it wouldnt repair itself. Unlike lucky youy i ended up gaining about 20 pounds and as of this week got sick of being unconfident and uncomfortable with myself so i decided to suck it up and work on my health. I was told by a good friend that one way to shed weight and lose inches plus eat healthier is by starting a low carb diet. I dont call it a diet though, i prefer way of life haha.
I started on sunday morning this week and have worked out so far 3 days since then. working out is kind of already easier and the amount of carb intake i cut out is unbelieveable. You would be suprised at how many uneccesary carbs we consume on a daily basis. Pretty much look up meals online, or even ingredients with 3 or less carbs, i know it sounds impossible but i promise you its not!
i was given a list to start me off so hopefully this helps you!
WHAT YOU SHOULD EAT THE 1st WEEK OF THIS WAY OF LIFE...
Fresh Greens- lettuce, cucmbers, bell peppers, broccli, cabbage, greeen beans.. etc
Mushrooms are great when you bake them with other things for a side
Any Meats you consume on a regular basis, deli is best because itll cut down carb content
sCauliflower
eafood, just check carb and fat amount
BACON (yes you can eat this on this plan)
porkrins/porkskins (Make an awesome covering on meats etc)
there are some more but i cant think of any at the moment
I NEVER COOK but lastnight i tried making a meatloaf and it turned out splendid, i made up the recipe so if youd like to try it
....PREHEAT OVEN TO 350
2.25 lbs of ground beef
half green bell pepper
half red belll pepper
add seasoning if you like but again check carb intake.
1 egg
MIX ALL ABOVE
you can put a thin layer of dressing over the meat and sprinkle crushed up porkrines on there (sounds weird but it tastes amazing)
As a side dish i cut up fresh mushrooms and put them in open spaces in my pan with less than a tbsp of butter on them.
Cook for 45 mins to an hr and BOOM you have meatloaf!
if you like your meatloaf with ketchup just get reduced sugar ketchup and only use 2 tbsp for a serving.
hope this helps you out!
-Lauren

Chessie24

Welcome to MFP. I'm new to posting even though I've used it for a while. The calorie counting really helps and it's made such a difference for me.

katamiller74

hi there ... if you are looking for more support .. ADD me to your friend list...i'm on the same journey! ;-)

Kat

Harriann84

Hi there, Welcome to MFP!
I have a considerable amount of weight to lose, but am restricted in the types of exercise I can do, because of knee and ankle problems x
I am going down the pilates and yoga route, but I know that isn't for everyone. If you want something bad enough, you will get there. We are all here behind you x

Hope you are having a good Christmas xx

Ann x