Hi, I am a mostly SAHM living in Saudi Arabia. I have 3 children and am looking to become more active, healthy and lighter! The last time I was in shape at all was about 12 years ago- and as I am about to hit 49 and my blood pressure has started to rise I think there is no time like the present to get started. I am really a beginner at this point. We just got a new treadmill so it's time for me to move.

Hello

I have rejoined MFP to loose the weight I have regained since last log on (8 lbs). I am looking for guidance and support while I regroup and turn my walking regime into running. Let me tell you about myself and perhaps one of you could help guide me on my journey to loosing this weigh once and for all!

I have struggled with keeping my weight in check my entire life! I am a 57 year old women who currently works full time as a Director on Nursing at my local community hospital. I am not very active during the course of my work day. My work days are long (9-10 hrs) and are more mentally stressful than physical. Many nights I take home work due the next day.

I am 5 feet tall and weigh 133 lbs. My initial goal is to be 110 lbs again (but I will settle for 115).

I do not have any real health issues other than menopause which has really impacted my ability to loose weight. I take daily vitamins, bioidentical hormone replacements, and a probiotic. I have no food allergies that I am aware of.

Every weekend, I take care of my elder mom for approx 2-6 hours, who resides in an assisted living facility about 40 minutes from my home.

Last fall, I completed my MSN online! Although it was a great accomplishment, I know the sedentary life of a student attributed to my weight gain. I am currently studying for certification in Leadership and management.

My morning routine (at least 5 days/week) includes walking on my treadmill (3.0-3.4mph) for approx 30. I also do a 45 min yoga DVD at least once per week. When I was in my mid to late 20s and early 30s, I ran approx. 1-3 mi/day. I loved to run and enjoyed the natural high it gave me. Unfortunately, I suffered a bulging cervical and lumbar disk from working as a nurse and gave up running. I would like to revisit my ability to run.

Does anyone have any advice for me on an approach to increase my pace from walking to running? What about my caloric intake and percentage of Carbs, protein, and fat be daily?

I would like to see at least 1-2 lb weight loss per week. How often do you suggest I weigh myself. I have been weighing daily only to see me go up and down with the same 3-5 lbs.

Any suggestions would be appreciated!

Thank you

Arizona -

Hi, I am Gail (healthfulnow), I am almost 56 y.o. and have been on MFP since January of this year. I have lost 60 lbs - going from 180 lbs to 120 lbs - although my goal weight was 129 lbs. I started my weight loss journey last September by using Weight Watchers online and following their points system. I watched what I ate, decreased my portions , and significantly upped my exercise. I had just been placed on blood pressure meds and have always had back pain (I could cough and throw out my back with pain lasting for weeks). I began my exercise regimen by doing Wii Fit Plus - Basic Steps and some of the other activities, as well as walking more consistently both outside and on the treadmill. Wii Fit Plus also offers yoga activities, strength activities, as well as cardio. As my weight came off , my blood pressure lowered and my back felt better - as well as my restless leg syndrome. Since January I started running 5K distances and signed up for my first race this past April. My body has pretty much transformed through the running. I completed it in a great time and have continued to run although now my body is starting to ache a little more and my time is a little slower. Currently, I am trying to do more strength / core training.

Please feel free to add me - I am also friends with quilteryoyo and other runners - both beginners (like myself) and others more experienced. We try to offer support and encouragement as we journey on this healthier lifestyle in our own courners of the world.

Hope you feel better soon!