240lbs and not sure where to start

LadyMustard

This is my first time really starting a weight loss anything and after college and starting birth control, I've gained 60 pounds on top of the 180 that I weighed back in high school. Now I'm 25, and I'm getting closer and closer to 250 lbs. I love my husband and he is so loving and supporting of me, and he makes me feel beautiful despite me being so overweight. Though I don't hate my body, I want to live a long healthy life... But I'm having a hard time getting motivated. The depo has killed my energy to get up and move, school takes even more time out of my schedule and now I'm stuck.

What are you guys doing to stay motivated? I'll take any tips you can send my way! This seems like such a supportive community and I'm glad that I get the chance to meet you all!

Pkeenan1229

feel free to friend me! i love keeping each other motivated!

konerusp

please read this,you will have enough info to get started
http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/654536-in-place-of-a-road-map-2-0-revised-7-2-12

1ConcreteGirl

please read this,you will have enough info to get started
http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/654536-in-place-of-a-road-map-2-0-revised-7-2-12

Absolutely this.

trogalicious

For a tip: don't dive in to multiple extreme changes at once.

If you're just looking to lose some weight, figure out a caloric deficit and stick with that by itself until you have the energy to be more active. I see people that start on this site... immediately eat 1200 calories, try to start insanity, go 100% clean eating, fail, delete their account, then come back again.. trying to figure out what went wrong.

Calculate your BMR using a number of calculators online (I use fat2fitradio.com), eat at least your BMR, get enough water and sleep, and go from there.

best of luck.

beautifulregardless

Not sure where to start? Stop questioning and do it. That's where you start. I'm not saying I'm a changed person but my mind is slowly changing. It has only been one week of eating in my macros and walking, not even running and I've went from 177 to 174.5 and I'm proud of it. Just eat in your macros and walk, when you feel like taking it another level, do it. Think about it this way, you think... Oh my goal weight is 160 and I'm 177, that's so far away.. Well, now I've lost a couple pounds and I'm 174.5 , darn , not really anything. But then you say well 177-160 =17 and 174.5-160 = 14.5 and 14.5 sounds a lot better than 17. So take it a day at a time.

I was 209 when I was pregnant... Even after I had more weight to lose, it's four months later and i still have weight to lose. But you can do anything you put your mind to. I promise you.

Mommydearest06

You are not alone. I've just started here about 2 weeks ago and has lost 4 pounds. I feel good. But most importantly its about you feeling good about your self inspite of your weight. No matter what your weight is, you must love yourself even if your 150 or 250. and when you loss those first couple of pounds you'll appreciate it better knowing you did it for you and not for nothing else.

GADavies

What are you guys doing to stay motivated?

Looking in the mirror every day and seeing a fat *kitten*. I'm not big on illusions, accepting reality works for me.

ReccaThorn

I have a family, mother of two. I am very busy on top of being a full-time nursing student. I find that if I plan out my meals before the day starts, I stay within my calorie allowance for the day. If I don't get up early before everyone else to work out, it doesnt happen. I follow the meal plans on fit2fat2fit.com. I've married the two websites to help me stay healthy and stay withing my Calorie count. Keep records of your measurements and take a photo EVERY WEEK. There have been 2-3 weeks that have gone by in the past where I felt like there was no progression at all due to no weight loss. I look at the measurements and photos and it keeps me motivated because I see the change there! Just started back up myself. I'm feeling great, you will too. Just remember, nothing worth having is going to come easy. You have a lot of work ahead of you, but you can do it!! :flowerforyou:

b_fit4life

I agree with the poster that said to take it slow. I've caught myself trying to dive too far into the deep end and I get bogged down. Pick one or two things to change that you can control. What is your vice? Do you snack a lot? Then make it your goal to say "no" to one snack a day. Don't cut them out all together as that can easily lead to a binge...no fun! Are you able to exercise and do you have some time you know you can COMMIT to exercise? Go for it! For most people, getting exercise in is actually easier than changing eating habits. So, maybe find time in your day to exercise 3-4 times a week to start and continue eating as usual. You'll find that when you do exercise, your body will start to crave healthier foods. It's pretty awesome actually! Also, feel free to friend me. Good Luck!!

maddogg82

No excuses ..

Don’t blame it on the Depo or the Pill.. I have to remember to take responsibility for my own actions. Yes it sucks I have to be on the pill but u know what the pill didn’t make this way .. I did.. and I have to look in the mirror and accept it and make a change. First step to recovery is admitting you have a problem.

Millions of women are on BC and they are able to exercise and diet. WHY not ME!

Don’t blame BC. Its US.. we did it now change it.

CupcakeKendra

That is where I started! I just started by walking a few times a week. Then each week I tried to beat my time from last walk. This required me to jog/run. Then I improved my endurance through hiking, Jillian Michael's DVD's and riding my bike. Just keep moving forward! Feel free to add me!

hhammerm

HI there! I understand what you're going through. I used to weigh 216lbs, have an autoimmune disease, and digestive issues - and I'm a full-time college student, married mom to three grown men - AND NOW FEEL AMAZING! I'm now at my goal weight of 135lbs and did it by literally taking one day at a time. Don't make too many changes at once. The key is to develop habits and that comes with consistency and dedication. Hang in there. You've got this! Take your time and set small, achievable goals and YOU WILL ge there! Just always keep in mind that small achievements = HUGE results! Be proud of them and celebrate each and every one You can friend me if you would like

cebreisch

First place to start is with journaling your food and paying attention to what you're eating. One of my nutritionists told me if I focus on lean, healthy protein, the fats/carbs will take care of themselves, and that's proven to be pretty true.

Most of my proteins include grilled chicken, ground turkey (for chili and/or spaghetti sauce), greek yogurt, light string cheese, periodically a sirloin steak, and protein bars.

Be sure to make small gradual changes, unless you're ready to plunge into the deep end (which has always been hard for me - small steps worked best for me).

Then just be consistant with journaling and paying attention to the numbers.

To stay motivated, I just remember what it was that got me started: I went to an event at my daughter's school and could hardly walk from the parking lot to the door and then had to sit down once inside - it was on the floor and people had to go around me. I was humiliated/embarrassed, name the negative emotion-I felt it. It was then that the voice inside said, "Something has to change." That was in April 2011.

Good luck!

proudmommy_iam

I have been on My fitness for a few years but never knew where to start. I would work out but never changed my eating habits. I would keep track of my calories but never had a balanced healthy eating lifestyle! I am so excited that I was finally able to find a health plan that helped me get motivated and loose my weight! I am down 27lbs! I would love to help anyone else looking for their optimal health and motivation!

proudmommy_iam

@ hhammerm...Congrats on all your hard work!!!

Momf3boys

One day at a time!!! This is my second journey with weightloss...I weighed 275 pounds, size 22/24 and lost 130 pounds and was wearing a size 8 and some 6s. I was the healthiest that I have ever been in my life...then I was diagnosed with breast cancer...during my treatment I packed on about 20 pounds because radiation drained me and I didn't work out...six months after I finished treatments I learned I was pregnant...well, that added another 65 pounds to the equation. Now, I'm on the journey again...I have done it before and I know I can do it again...don't look at the big goal, make small goals. Yes, I have 65 pounds to lose right now but I'm taking it one pound at a time!!! You can do it!!!

mrook2009

Feel free to add me as well. I am going to school, I work part-time, and I have two 3 year olds, and a 5 year old. My husband works during the day during the week, so I'm at home w/ the kiddos, and I work on the weekends. I totally understand not having time for anything. lol. But, once you get in a routine of exercising, you feel so weird when you don't do it. I just recently started going to a gym and I LOVE it! I was just using the treadmill that I have at home. You just have to find a workout that you enjoy, and not one that you have to force yourself to do. You can do this!!!!

carksey

You seem stressed on time and wondering how you will lose weight without the time to do so.

All I have to say is that nutrition is half or more of the battle...you DON'T have to go to the gym initially.

Think about it you're overweight now because your calorie intake has been too high so getting that below maintenance (usually a 500cal deficit) will cause you to lose weight...people just to cardio to speed the process up not because it is necessary.

So start with nutrition and as time frees up add the cardio...and then as you start to lose...maybe 20-30lbs then think about adding in some strength training to boost your confidence!

jbobb15

Hey there! Just wanted to talk a little about your BC choice. I was on Depo for under a year and put on 20 pounds. I recently read an article saying that Depo is the only contraceptive proven to contribute to weight gain. So perhaps seek an alternative. I know the one injection is a lot easier than a daily med, and that you absolutely can lose the weight while on it, just giving you some food for thought.

LadyMustard

please read this,you will have enough info to get started
http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/654536-in-place-of-a-road-map-2-0-revised-7-2-12

Absolutely this.

I found this to be very useful, I'll have to update the macros (I'm assuming that's how many calories we're supposed to have a day) so that the count is more accurate.

About 6 months ago, I cut out all pop and sugary drinks and mostly drink water now after working myself down. That began to slow the gain by quite a bit. I've been getting my vitamins in regularly too so I was ready for the next step.

Thank you all for your encouragement!

paulperryman

Go with what others have said in regards to online guides, but from a personal experience, I am 242lbs atm you are not alone. so far if i could suggest joining a health club/gym and get some professional guidance since thats there job to help people get the best results with what they are given, guide you on what best to eat, how much and work out a training plan to maximise weight loss and toning, and they'd have a better idea what type of metabolism etc. you have and how to use that to your advantage, provided that isn't too costly ofcourse, my health club the first 3 personal trainer sessions only cost $50 and are compulsory after that it's $50 a session or there abouts (not compulsory) but thats here in a local South Australian health club.

personal experience i just turned 40 last sunday and was at 242lbs (110kg's where i live) i was already walking most days for 30mins but otherwise lived a unhealthy lifestyle being a forkilift driver and sitting on my *kitten* when i wasn't at work, that was just the walking just enough to myself spiraling out of control weight wise, but to lose weight it would never cut it. I have had some help from a family member who'd already joined the gym and with him being there it certainly helps with motivation.

Yours will be different but for me a 40yr old male at 110kg's and 175cm tall, Training for 60-90mins at an average heart rate of 165+BPM a day + walking for 40+ mins at 5pmh on varying surfaces in 4 days i've lost almost a kilo. Today i was even able to break into a jog on the treadmill for a minute, felt like an idiot with everything jiggling but others don't care it's all about you and your progress.

I with no personal training yet, thats coming down the line just waiting for an available trainer. I by myself have worked up bout an hour of cardio on treadmill, Cross Trainer and Static Bike + Rowing Machine and 30mins on resistance training (weights etc,) I hate the weights but i understand that muscles burn more fat then just cardio alone plus if you lose lots of weight and haven't tones you will be skinnier but still flabby.

The rest is purely about caloric intanke and outgoing which once again varies with each person. There's guides on here, let the site decide that for you based on the basic information you put in.

Good luck

purplelizzard

Feel free to friend me!

ReccaThorn

Wow, congrats hhammerm. That's amazing. I used to call myself fat when I was 135 lbs. What I would give to be there now! You're an inspiration! We have to love ourselves and know we are worthy of good health. (Congrats to everyone else who has lost, just read them after posting above)

gablue444

I'm in the exact same situation! I decided to change after hitting over 250 and feeling horrible. I am counting calories and using this site everyday really helps me!

oudixon

It's funny and cheesy- but knowing your overweight and saying it. That is what helped me. I always knew I was a Big guy, it really wasn't until I recently helped a friend move some boxes- no steps at all and I was getting tired for no reason. This is when it hit me that I am TRULY out of shape. So I just woke up one Sunday morning and said let's try it.

I started by just focusing on a routine with food(I am doing slimfast for now and I haven't been starving for dinners). Once I had that routine down, I started the elliptical. This has only been three weeks and I have lost 16 pounds so far. I know this pace won't continue forever, but I am fine with it for now.

My goal is to lose 100 by Christmas at the latest(if I do it earlier GReat, if not, as long as I lost weight I am fine with it). Then the last 50 by June 2014.

So far, this site has been tremendous help, just by logging daily and being honest with yourself.

twentyco

Everyone is different, but for me what has worked is making small manageable changes. I started about three months ago just logging my calories on MFP --- not really paying any attention to macros, or what I was eating specifically, but just making it a goal to stay within my allotted calories. Once I had that down, I added more water. This had started happening already, because it was easier for me to give up drinking calories than eating calories. I used to drink almost no water; now I drink at least 14 cups a day, and often more. It helps keep me full, and it also keeps me from retaining water. Once I was used to that, I started to add in exercise. I started with just a walk around my neighborhood once a week. Now I am building up to doing more, and my current goal is to get to the point where I am doing at least 30 minutes of some type of exercise three to four times a week. I have also started to pay more attention to what I am eating, and doing more to try to balance my macros and eat more healthful food -- but a little bit at a time. I am not good at deprivation, though, so I regularly budget food I like into my allotted calories, and have it without guilt as long as it fits within my calories.

I'm down about 40 pounds so far, so I think this is working for me. Progress, not perfection.

violinkeri

First of all, anyone can friend me, i accept all the help i can get! and try to give it too

I gained weight and cup sizes in less than 2 months on Yaz, and then it ceased immediatley when i switched to nuvaring. you may just have to play around with BCs to find one thats right for you--every person is different.

Second, one day at a time. Start slow. for a week, just eat normally and track everything. Get a picture of what exactly is going into your body. When you see all those red numbers...ooh boy.

Track your sodium macro. I thougth i was being much healthier until i saw just how much salt i was eating! Make small changes...switch out your soda for teas, skim milk, fresh juices. buy popcorn instead of doritos. eat more chicken instead of fatty ground beef.

After you make one change and are used to it, add another. Once you are eating healthy and at a safe deficit, then add the exercise.

Third, this doestn work for everyone (nothing is universal!) but I found that I have more success staying in my limits by eating at the maintenance calories for my goal weight. I recommend this to everyone who struggles to maintain healthy eating by doing too much too soon. By eating for the body I want, not the body I have, I am getting into the habits of what Im going to need to be doing when I get to my goal.

wormy80

bumping for later

TheLuSir

Find out what your routine is. Track your calories as if you were not trying to lose weight, etc. Just see what you are and what your habits are. Then go from there.

olores

Slow and steady wins the race! Welcome!! BELIEVE you can and it will be so!!