Motivating my mom and girlfriend

You might want to see if your mom would like to do Tai Chi. You can check out a DVD at the library and show her what it is, if she thinks she would like it you could find a class at a gym.

I would think once the exercising kicks in eating better will fall into place. You could try leaving her some healthy snacks to try like flavored rice cakes, baked chips instead of fried.

It would be great if they signed up on here, I know once I started logging stuff and realized just how many calories were in foods, it really opened my eyes.

Does she like video games? If so and you can afford it, what about a Wii fit plus. they are great and enjoyable and can be done in the home. It would start her on the right track without feeling like a chore. You dont say how much she weighs though, and it does have a weight limit.

Good luck with it and keep us posted

I would say encouragement is key--when they spend time working out with you, make sure to point out the good stuff they're doing and only make corrections when they're doing something dangerous or just really bad. You don't need to be patronizing about it, don't constantly be saying "Awesome job! :happy: :happy: :happy:" but if your mom gets out for a walk and you climb a big hill together, say you're proud of her (I'm sure you would be), or let your girlfriend know that you love spending time with her working out.

Keep in mind though that motivation comes from them, and if they're not buying into the healthy living thing then you're not going to have the same commitment from them as you have from yourself.

Great job for you, though, keep up the great work!

I think you may be trying to make them a little too much in your own image- working out regularly isn't for everyone and anyone who comes to it needs to do so in their own way.

Since diet is by far the great impact on weightloss, I would try to slowly work on encouraging them to pay more attention to what they are eating and how much of it they eat. I still eat all that junk, just not as often. My best friend, counting calories isnt for her, but instead of pushing her to join MFP I gave her my "food skeleton" which is just my basic list of "go-to" meals so that snacks and junk food are unique or treats and not an every meal consistency. And when she goes out to eat, she leaves a little of her portion on her plate. Idk how much weight shes lost- she's not really keeping close track, but she feels better and looks better.

Bottom line: You have to let them decide what's best for them and not push them toward something that will ultimately prove frustrating for them. Encourage the good things, lay off the bad. Go slow, and let them know you are there for them.

PS- losing 14 lbs in a month is awesome, but you are a guy, it is generally easier for you to lose. I suggest avoiding telling them how much you lost or talking about it over much- its just going to cause them frustration and anxiety.

"You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make them drink!"

They have to be willing to want to do this, I'm sorry to say that just because you are all gun Ho on eating right and exercising, doesn't mean they will be. It took me many years up until 3 months ago to figure out that I was finally ready! It's great that you want to help them both but they have to want to do this for themselves and no matter how much you tell them how great and wonderful you are doing or feeling, it won't matter unless they are ready.

Inspire them by letting them see how you great your feeling and maybe it will be enough to get them going on the right track. Being demanding or forceful won't work! As for exercise, if they are ready, they should start out slow, too much too soon can be hard physically and will make them want to give up. Be supportive but let them go at their own pace. Great job so far for you and good luck on your quest for a healthier life!