Turn your knowledge into Power Challenge

LauraLLee · July 2011

Turn Your Knowledge into Power 8 week Challenge!

This is an 8 week journey to take our knowledge of fitness and nutrition and put it into action.

What does that mean? It means to make connections with each other because studies show people who have support lose weight and tend to keep it off with that kind of support.

It means we will take some time and learn to understand ourselves more and arm ourselves with the knowledge that is out there to better encourage our weight loss.

It also means that we are going Move! We are going to get out of old routines and move our bodies so that we not only burn calories, but reshape our bodies.

So if you are committed we would welcome you on this Journey to Turn your Knowledge into Power!

This is a challenge that requires participation at least once a week, but I encourage you to participate more than that.
Every week we will have a physical challenge and a knowledge challenge.

Example of a physical challenge would be 30 Jumping jacks a day. And knowledge challenge might be sharing information with each other through quizzes or articles about our health and nutrition, as well as our physical training.

We will also share a NSV every week as we train ourselves to become the physical and emotional people we want to be.

This challenge will last a total of 8 weeks from July 8th through September 2nd.

Weigh ins are every Friday. I will post the result of our weight loss and inches lost every week.

So that means you have to go and buy a measuring tape and take measurements of your:

Neck
Bust
Waist
Hips
Thighs
Arms

I will also need a starting weight and a comment from each of you as to what your goals are during these 8 weeks. (Be realistic when setting your goals so we can achieve what we set out to do.)

I am excited to start this and I hope you join us on this journey!

LauraLLee · July 2011

Turn Your Knowledge into Power Challenge Contestants!

Paacr Paul

Final outrage

kimberlyrenee
My starting weight - 279

Measurements:
Neck - 15 1/2
Bust - 50
Waist - 49
Hips - 57
Thighs - 29 1/2
Arms - 16 1/2

Midonhau
146.3 lbs
Neck 14"
Bust 35"
Waist 32"
Hips 40"
Thighs 24"
Arms 12"

Goal - to get to my goal weight of 135 lbs

Dorothy Dingman

Current Weight: 259.6
Left Arm: 20
Right Arm: 19
Left Thigh: 29.25
Right Thigh: 28.75
Chest: 53.25
Waist: 47.25
Hips: 56.75
Neck: 15.25

Goals:
Weight: Loss of 12 pounds (1.5 week)
Inches: Overall loss of 3 inches
Personal: I want to increase the amount of movement I do, increase water intake to at least 8 per day, and log consistently at least 6 days each week of the challenge. I think that once I started to lose, I got complacent about the logging and it shows.

Maxylicious

Mcheather

Ashrenalls
Neck: 15.5in
Bust: 43in
Waist: 43in (yes, I have no boobs. haha!)
Hips: 52.25in
Thighs: 31in
Upper Arms: 16.5in
Forearms: 12in
Calves: 19.5in

Starting weights 244.4

I have a lot going on right now. A goal of mine would be to finish this challenge. I am doing school and work, so fitting in gym time is not always possible. Learning how to be active in my sedentary life would be awesome.

I'd like to lose at least 10lbs, and I'd like to fit in all the clothes I own. (a few 18s that I'm still holding on to, I'm in 20s and I have 1 pair of 18s that work)

Arfdemob

Neck: 15 in
Bust: 42 in
Waist: 37 in
Hips: 48 in
Thighs 26 in
Arms: 14 in

Starting weight today: 316

My eight week goals:
Weight: lose 15 pounds.
Fitness: Exercise 5 times per week, focused on strengthening my core.
Mental: Staying focused on my goals despite emotions!!!! (This is huge for me!)

Emccand

Hi there, my weigh in is 237.8 and my measurements are:

Neck 14
Bust 39.5
Waist 46
Hips 53.5
Thighs 30.75
Arms 16

I am trying to make sure I measure in the same spot each time lol, thank goodness for freckles and moles

My goal is to lose a minimum of 10 lbs during this 8 week challenge.

Kristiedavis1

Laurallee

293.2

Neck
Bust
Waist
Hips
Thighs
Arms

I would like to be at at least 280 when we are don and see 3 inches off my hips, waist and thighs and an inch or more off the other places.

melane71

ok, I hope I did this right because I am not sure I am measuring at the right spot

Neck 13
Bust 37
Waist 30
Hips 37
Thighs 23
Arms 12

SW 136
CW 122
GW 110

Goal #1 1.5 lbs loss per week
Goal #2 resist the skinny cow icecream sandwich at least once a week (I eat one 3 to 4 times a week)
GoaI #3 exercise at least 6 times a week with 500 minimum calorie burn from exercice
Goal #4 stay on schedule with the c25k that I started yesterday
Goal #5 stay on track while on vacation in San Diego

Brittbrat892
Neck- 13.5
Bust- 36
Waist- 34.5
Hips- 42.5
Thigh (left)- 24 (right) 24.5
Arm (left)- 11.5 (right_- 11.5

I dont know how many inches I should make as a goal.. Ive never done an inches goal before. I hope to lose 15 pounds by the end of 8 weeks.

LauraLLee · July 2011

Turn Your Knowledge into Power Week One Challenge

Knowledge Challenge:

Read the following article by the Mayo Clinic and Answer each of the 6 questions in the articles and share with the group.
Also please respond to others posts so, you can learn to understand and support your community during this Challenge.

Weight loss: Assess your readiness to change

Before you plunge into a weight-loss program, see if you're truly ready. And see what steps to take if you aren't ready yet.
By Mayo Clinic staff

Your weight-loss success depends in large part on your readiness to take on the challenge. If you jump in before you're ready, your weight-loss plan may buckle under the first challenge. Use these questions to assess your weight-loss readiness.

1. Are you motivated to make long-term lifestyle changes?

Successful weight loss depends on permanent lifestyle changes, such as eating healthy foods and exercising more. That could represent a significant departure from your current lifestyle. Be honest. Knowing that you need to make changes in your life and actually doing it are two different things. You may have to overhaul your diet so that you're eating more whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products, for example. You'll also need to find time to exercise for at least 30 minutes nearly every day of the week. Exercise is especially important to prevent regaining your lost weight.
Your motivation for undertaking these changes may be better health, improved appearance or just feeling better about yourself in general. As long as your motivation is a healthy one, it doesn't really matter what it is. Find your motivation and focus on it.

2. Have you addressed the big distractions in your life?

If you're dealing with major life events, such as marital problems, job stress, illness or financial worries, you may not want to add the challenge of overhauling your eating and exercise habits. Instead, consider giving your life a chance to calm down before you launch your weight-loss program.

3. Do you have a realistic picture of how much weight you'll lose and how quickly?

Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is a lifelong process. Over the long term, it's best to aim for losing 1 to 2 pounds (0.5 to 1 kilogram) a week. To lose 1 to 2 pounds a week, you need to burn 500 to 1,000 calories more than you consume each day. You can do that through a low-calorie diet and regular physical activity or exercise.
Initially you might lose weight more quickly than that if you make significant changes — just be sure the changes are health supporting. Don't get discouraged if your rate of weight loss slows a bit after bigger initial losses.

4. Have you resolved any emotional issues connected to your weight?

Emotions and food are often intertwined. Anger, stress, grief and boredom can trigger emotional eating. And if you have a history of an eating disorder, weight loss can be even trickier. Start by identifying your emotional issues related to food so that you're prepared for the challenges. Talk to your doctor about what weight-loss options are best for you.

5. Do you have support and accountability?

Any weight-loss program can be difficult. You may face moments of temptation or become disheartened. Having someone in your corner to offer encouragement can help. If you don't have friends or family you can rely on for positive help, consider joining a weight-loss support group.
If you want to keep your weight-loss efforts private, be prepared to be accountable to yourself with regular weigh-ins and a log of your diet and activity. You might also want to consider joining an online program or using a certified health coach.

6. Have you embraced the weight-loss challenge?

If you don't have a positive attitude about losing weight, you may not be ready. If you dread what lies ahead, you may be more likely to find excuses to veer off course. Try to embrace the vision of your new lifestyle and remain positive. Focus on how good you'll feel when you're more active or when you weigh less. Picture yourself celebrating every little success along the way, whether it's opting for a low-fat cottage cheese snack instead of chips or going for a walk.

You're ready for weight loss: Now what?

If you answered yes to all or most of these questions, you're probably ready to make the lifestyle changes necessary to work toward permanent weight loss. You may be able to forge ahead on your own, creating your own lifestyle program for healthy eating and exercising. Or you may feel you need help.
Educating yourself about the process of successful weight loss and maintenance is a start. For example, learn more about the dietary changes necessary for losing weight. See a dietitian or enroll in a behavior-based weight program that can help you change the habits that can interfere with weight loss, such as eating when you're stressed or bored. If you have a significant amount of weight to lose, you may benefit from medically supervised weight loss with a team of health professionals that may include a dietitian, a therapist or an obesity specialist.

What if you're not ready?

If you answered no to more than one of these questions, you may not be ready to embark on a weight-loss program right now. And that's OK. Explore what's holding you back and face those obstacles. In some cases it may simply be a matter of timing. For instance, you may need to resolve other stressors in your life first. In other cases, you may need to work on related issues, such as your feelings toward weight loss or your willingness to commit to permanent lifestyle changes.
Consider seeking help from your doctor or another professional, such as a certified wellness coach, to help you work through these issues. Try to address the obstacles as soon as possible and then re-evaluate your readiness for weight loss so that you can quickly get started on a healthier lifestyle. Don't let the chaos of life become a permanent excuse, however. There will never be an absolutely perfect time.

Still unsure?

You may have found that you couldn't answer all of the questions with a simple yes or no. If you feel generally positive about most of your answers and you're upbeat about a weight-loss program, consider starting now. You may never have definitive answers in life. Don't let that rob you of a chance to achieve your weight-loss goals

1.Are you motivated to make long-term lifestyle changes?
2.Have you addressed the big distractions in your life?
3. Do you have a realistic picture of how much weight you'll lose and how quickly?
4. Have you resolved any emotional issues connected to your weight?
5. Do you have support and accountability?
6. Have you embraced the weight-loss challenge?
So Are you Ready?

Power Challenge:

Our Goal this week is to Walk at least 1 mile total this week.(But if you can do this already step it up and set some examples for us!)

That is approximately 12 to 16 blocks depending on the city.
You can track your Walking Like this:

Saturday 3 blocks
Sunday ##
Monday 6 blocks
Tuesday Walked the mall 120 minutes
Wednesday 60 minutes
Thursday
Friday##

This is a challenge to get us moving, so let’s move our bodies and shake some things up this week!

LauraLLee · July 2011

Week One Question:
What are your challenges to exercise regularly?

Barriers to fitness: Overcoming common challenges

Sticking to a regular exercise schedule isn't easy. Get practical tips for overcoming common barriers.
By Mayo Clinic staff

Sticking to a regular exercise schedule isn't easy. After all, there are plenty of potential hindrances — time, boredom, injuries, self-confidence. But these issues don't need to stand in your way. Consider practical strategies for overcoming common barriers to fitness.

Barrier No. 1: I don't have enough time to exercise

Setting aside time to exercise can be a challenge. Use a little creativity to get the most out of your time.
• Squeeze in short walks throughout the day. If you don't have time for a full workout, don't sweat it. Shorter spurts of exercise, such as 10 minutes of walking spaced throughout the day, offer benefits too.
• Get up earlier. If your days are packed and the evening hours are just as hectic, get up 30 minutes earlier twice a week to exercise. Once you've adjusted to early-morning workouts, add another day or two to the routine.
• Drive less, walk more. Park in the back row of the parking lot or even a few blocks away and walk to your destination.
• Revamp your rituals. Your weekly Saturday matinee with the kids or your best friend could be reborn as your weekly Saturday bike ride, rock-climbing lesson or trip to the pool.

Barrier No. 2: I think exercise is boring

It's natural to grow weary of a repetitive workout day after day, especially when you're going it alone. But exercise doesn't have to be boring.
• Choose activities you enjoy. You'll be more likely to stay interested. Remember, anything that gets you moving counts.
• Vary the routine. Rotate among several activities — such as walking, swimming and cycling — to keep you on your toes while conditioning different muscle groups.
• Join forces. Exercise with friends, relatives, neighbors or co-workers. You'll enjoy the camaraderie and the encouragement of the group.
• Explore new options. Learn new skills while getting in a workout. Check out exercise classes or sports leagues at a recreation center or health club.

Barrier No. 3: I'm self-conscious about how I look

Don't get down on yourself! Remind yourself what a great favor you're doing for your cardiovascular health, or focus on how much stronger you feel after a workout.
• Avoid the crowd. If you're uncomfortable exercising around others, go solo at first. Try an exercise video or an activity-oriented video game. Or consider investing in a stationary bicycle, treadmill, stair-climbing machine or other piece of home exercise equipment.
• Focus on the future. Praise yourself for making a commitment to your health. And remember that as you become fitter and more comfortable exercising, your self-confidence is likely to improve as well.

Barrier No. 4: I'm too tired to exercise after work

No energy to exercise? Without exercise, you'll have no energy. It's a vicious cycle. But breaking the cycle with physical activity is one of the best gifts you can give yourself.
• Try a morning dose of exercise. Remember the suggestion to get up 30 minutes earlier to exercise? Hop on the treadmill or stationary bicycle while you listen to the radio or watch the morning news. Or step outside for a brisk walk.
• Make lunchtime count. Keep a pair of walking shoes at your desk, and take a brisk walk during your lunch break.
• Be prepared. Put workout clothes on top of your dresser, socks and all. Keep a full water bottle in the fridge. Have an exercise video queued up and ready to go when you get home at night.
• Hit the hay earlier. Running on empty is no way to face a full day. Go to bed earlier to make sure you're getting enough sleep.

Barrier No. 5: I'm too lazy to exercise

If the mere thought of a morning jog makes you tired, try these thoughts on for size:
• Set realistic expectations. If your mental bar is too high, you might give up without even trying. Start with a walk around the block. Don't give up if you feel worn out. Take another walk around the block tomorrow. Keep it up, and eventually you'll no longer feel worn out.
• Work with your nature, not against it. Plan physical activity for times of the day when you tend to feel more energetic — or at least not quite so lazy.
• Schedule exercise as you would schedule an important appointment. Block off times for physical activity, and make sure your friends and family are aware of your commitment. Ask for their encouragement and support.

Barrier No. 6: I'm not athletic

Natural athletic ability isn't a prerequisite to physical activity.
• Keep it simple. Try something basic, such as a daily walk.
• Start a team. Join up with friends who are in the same boat. And have fun while helping each other work out.
• Forget the competition. Don't worry about becoming a superstar athlete or joining the hard-bodied athletes at the fitness club. Simply focus on the positive changes you're making to your body and mind.

Barrier No. 7: I've tried to exercise in the past and failed

Don't throw in the towel. You can't see it when you lower your cholesterol or reduce your risk of diabetes, but that doesn't mean you aren't doing yourself a great favor. Re-evaluate what went wrong, and learn from your mistakes.
• Pace yourself. Start small and build up to more-intense workouts later, when your body is ready.
• Set realistic goals. Don't promise yourself you're going to work out for an hour every day, and then get down on yourself when you fall short. Stick with goals you can more easily achieve, such as exercising 20 minutes a day, three days a week for the first month.
• Remember why you're exercising. Use your personal fitness goals as motivation — and reward yourself as you meet your goals.

Barrier No. 8: I can't afford health club fees

You don't need a membership at an elite gym to get a great workout. Consider common-sense alternatives.
• Do strengthening exercises at home. Use inexpensive resistance bands — lengths of elastic tubing that come in varying strengths — in place of weights. Lift plastic milk jugs partially filled with water or sand. Do push-ups or squats using your body weight.
• Watch an exercise video. Try videos on dance aerobics, cardio-kickboxing, yoga or tai chi. For variety, trade exercise videos with a friend.
• Start a walking group. Round up friends, neighbors or co-workers for regular group walks. Plan routes through your neighborhood or near your workplace, along local parks and trails, or in a nearby shopping mall.
• Take the stairs. Skip the elevator when you can. Better yet, make climbing stairs a workout in itself.
• Try your community center. Exercise classes offered through a local recreation department or community education group might fit your budget better than an annual gym membership.

Barrier No. 9: I'm afraid I'll hurt myself if I exercise

If you're nervous about injuring yourself, start off on the right foot.
• Take it slow. Start with a simple walking program. As you become more confident in your abilities, add new activities to your routine.
• Try an exercise class for beginners. You'll learn the basics by starting from scratch.
• Get professional help. Get a fitness tutorial from a certified expert, who can monitor your movements and point you in the right direction. If you've had a previous injury, you may want to first see a sports medicine physician, who can evaluate you and recommend specific treatment, such as physical therapy.
Barrier No. 10: My family doesn't support my efforts
Remind those close to you of the benefits of regular exercise — and then bring them along for the ride.
• Get your kicks with your kids. Sign up for a parent-child exercise class. Pack a picnic lunch and take your family to the park for a game of tag or kickball. Splash with the kids in the pool instead of watching from your chair.
• Propose a new adventure. Instead of suggesting a workout at the gym, invite a friend to go to an indoor climbing wall or rent a tandem bicycle for the weekend.
• Do double duty. Volunteer to drive your teens to the mall, and then walk laps inside while you wait for the shoppers. Try the same trick at your child's school during lessons, practices or rehearsals.
If necessary, have a heart-to-heart with your loved ones. If they don't share your fitness ambitions, ask them to at least respect your desire to get fit.

idahogirl71 · July 2011

Is this challenge group still open? If so I will post my info...would love to join!

LauraLLee · July 2011

Is this challenge group still open? If so I will post my info...would love to join!

Yes! You may join! just post the information required and I will be putting a chart or two together soon.

LauraLLee · July 2011

Also let make sure we friend everyone and get to know them so we can be a support to one another!

funkyspunky871 · July 2011

Hi Laura! I'd love to join your challenge. I'm a little distracted right now though, so I'll be back in an hour or two to read everything over and post the required information.

DorothyNorrington · July 2011

Hi Everyone,

Just thought I would introduce myself and share a little about me with the group.

My name is Dorothy, and I am 38 years old. I live in a small rural community in Utah. I share my life with an amazing man that I have spent the last 10 years with named Ray. We have a son named CJ that is 15. I teach Special Education, and I love it! It is the best job in the world and well suited to my personality. My hobbies include reading, playing games (cards, dice, and board games) and spending time in nature hiking, camping and taking photos.

Here is a little bit about my journey with MFP so far. I started in Sept. of 2010. I weighed in at 270 pounds. I consistently lost each week until the end of April. The lowest I weighed after starting out was 239. Then I began to feel good, and became complacent in my journey. I missed logging food, I had more treats than before, I did not exercise at the same intensity, or for the same amount of time. Slowly it started to creep back on. 1/2 pound here, a pound there, until finally I am back at 263 pounds.

I am tired of the excuses, and I am tired of feeling tired all the time. I don't want a different life, I want a chance to enjoy the wonderful life I already have, and people I share it with for a long time. Some of the obstacles that I struggle with are listed below:
* Portion Control
* My "all or nothing" mentality...If I am not perfect, I give up easily.
* Changes to my schedule.
* Emotional Eating

I look forward to meeting all of you and sharing successes and struggles with you. I know that there is a lot that I can learn from all of you, and hopefully something I can share as well. Please feel free to friend me, but make sure that I am aware that you are doing the challenge with me. I am very selective about who I share my journey with.

Dorothy

(Edited for spelling errors)

vallejos6 · July 2011

I'd love to join in with ya'll! My starting weight is 154.6lbs. (my overall high weight was 216.8lbs. and I started at MFP at 161).

Measurements:
Neck- 12.75
Bust- 34.5
Waist- 31.5
Hips- 40
Thighs-22.75
Arms -12

8 Week Goal-
I would like to get my weight into the 140s (so at a minimum, a loss of about 5 pounds which is SLIGHTLY over .5 pounds, and probably right on track for where I am in my weight loss journey to date). At some point through this time period I will be starting P90X with the hubby, but until then, I'd like to be consistent with exercise at least 4 days a week (6 would be better). I'd like to raise the amount of weight I am lifting by about 5 pounds by the end of the challenge- so biceps/triceps would be up to 20 pounds (we'll see- this will be a hard goal!)

LauraLLee · July 2011

Hi Laura! I'd love to join your challenge. I'm a little distracted right now though, so I'll be back in an hour or two to read everything over and post the required information.

Yay! I am glad you going to join us!

LauraLLee · July 2011

I'd love to join in with ya'll! My starting weight is 154.6lbs. (my overall high weight was 216.8lbs. and I started at MFP at 161).

Measurements:
Neck- 12.75
Bust- 34.5
Waist- 31.5
Hips- 40
Thighs-22.75
Arms -12

8 Week Goal-
I would like to get my weight into the 140s (so at a minimum, a loss of about 5 pounds which is SLIGHTLY over .5 pounds, and probably right on track for where I am in my weight loss journey to date). At some point through this time period I will be starting P90X with the hubby, but until then, I'd like to be consistent with exercise at least 4 days a week (6 would be better). I'd like to raise the amount of weight I am lifting by about 5 pounds by the end of the challenge- so biceps/triceps would be up to 20 pounds (we'll see- this will be a hard goal!)

Excellent! Welcome aboard!

vallejos6 · July 2011

Ok.. first Knowledge Challenge:

1.Are you motivated to make long-term lifestyle changes?
- Ok, this one doesn't really apply to me, because I have already made long-term changes. I started my weight loss journey in July 2009 at the weight of 216 pounds. At first, I just really concentrated on making changes to my diet. I started following the South Beach Diet way of eating, and to this day, I still am pretty close to the recommendations (although I do now add some honey and I sometimes have a few more grain servings and/or fruit servings depending on the day). In the summer of 2010 I did the Couch to 5K program and started adding some exercise into my routine, but with winter (I live in Alaska) that sort of went out the window. My big challenge is to keep up with the exercise even when the weather outside is horrible, and this is where I am focusing most of my energy at the moment because the nutrition side is now pretty ingrained.

2.Have you addressed the big distractions in your life?
-I'm very lucky in that I don't have many distractions. My kiddos are older and the only one who requires a LOT of care is now living in a residential setting (I think I'll address that more later). I work just short of full time as a special education paraprofessional (I'm a one on one aide to a little 3rd grader with severe visual impairments- for the summer, I'm working part time in a class with 9 autistic little boys).

3. Do you have a realistic picture of how much weight you'll lose and how quickly?
- I've been working at this a long time, and it definitely hasn't been quick. But, along the way, I've developed good habits and experimented to find nutrition and exercise that works for my body and is SUSTAINABLE in the long run. What I'm doing now, I can do forever, and I think that's important. I am not afraid to go off plan for special occasions, because I know that I can pick right back up where I left off. I'm not on a diet, I'm just living my life in a more healthy way. It has become something that has affected the way the whole family eats, and even though my two kids who still live at home (daughter-23 and son-16) don't eat exactly the way I do, they are eating healthier than they did before.

As far as how much weight I'll lose, I think I'm at the point now that I would still like to lose some more, but I'm becoming less concerned with the final number on the scale. I'm judging more now by the way my body looks, my athletic performance, my energy levels, etc. My bmi is finally in a "normal" range, so I'm ok just letting my body pick what it wants to weigh with my healthy lifestyle.

4. Have you resolved any emotional issues connected to your weight?
-This was a big one for me, and also caused a major year long "plateau" right in the middle of my weight loss journey. For many years, I have dealt with a massive amount of stress and sleep deprivation. Our youngest son (14) has autism, some degree of mental retardation, and an unspecified mood disorder(it looks like bi-polar, but because he's completely non-verbal, the professionals won't classify it beyond the generic). He is severely self-abusive and the more he hurt himself, the more stressed out I got (and the more I ate... and drank). The routine for the day went something like wake up at 5am, usually to head banging in wall, or bandaging wounds opened up on hands/arms before I got into his room to get him out of bed. Feed him, dress him, change his diapers, get him off to school, head off to work. Get home and cook/clean get everything ready, because as soon as his bus pulled up it was constant supervision/redirecting/calming/sensory input until he went to sleep, and then collapse on the couch with ice cream and at least 2 (many times more) rum and cokes to take the edge off, allow us to relax in time to go to bed at 10, and then wake up 2-3 times through out the night (on good nights- bad nights we might actually not sleep at all), just to start back over the next day. When I started the weight loss journey, it was very difficult to deal with all this, plus watching what I ate, but I did it, added in running a couple times a week, which was GREAT for stress relief. I actually found that proper nutrition helped me to have more energy. My weight was dropping steadily despite the fact that the situation was actually deteriorating.

Last year, we finally came to the conclusion that we needed to seek out a residential option for Stevie, mostly for his safety. The horrible information we found was that the state of Alaska (where we live) doesn't have any options for residential treatment in state, so instead of him living close enough to see frequently, we had to come to grips with moving him to Idaho (2700 miles away). At that point, while dealing with that reality, my weight loss stopped. I didn't have any emotional energy to devote to my weight. I didn't go hog wild, and luckily I already had some nutrition habits in place that allowed me to maintain my initial loss for the next 9 months until this past Feb. when we took our son to his new house. After conquering that emotionally devastating time, we devoted ourselves to a major fitness push. We started working on the Insanity exercise program. It was great to fill time, relieve stress, and helped to reinvigorate my weight loss plans. Since then, we've been able to go back to visit our son once, and he's doing really well, and we are super comfortable with both is new house and his new school, so the stress levels have really come down (thank goodness) and I feel more energetic, rested, and positive than I have in a long while.

5. Do you have support and accountability?
- Absolutely, my family is super supportive. My dear husband (we've been married 23 years) and I are doing this together, even though he was (and still is) quite a bit smaller than I am. And now, I have the on line support as well, which is great.

6. Have you embraced the weight-loss challenge?
-Absolutely. I'm ready to do this forever, and not just until I get some magic number on the scale!

Hope ya'll have a great weekend, I probably won't be on again until Monday (we are *****ing the house, and we need to get out into the woods and get firewood this weekend!) I should complete the Physical challenge tonight as we are scheduled to jog 2.5 miles, will post on Monday if I actually got it done! (edited to add: I didn't put a bad word in there, LOL, we live in a log home and we are putting the stuff on in between the logs-apparently it thought I was insulting some ethnic group, hehe).

~~Veronica

kristiedavis1 · July 2011

Neck 16.25
Bust 51.5
Waist 48.5
Hips 62.5
Thighs 29.
Arms 15.75

Starting Weight 315

Goals -
Lose 12 pounds
Lose a total of 4 inches
Stay on plan for eating the whole 8 weeks
Meet personal goal of excercise 30 minutes at least 5 times a week
Complete all the challenges

Kristie Davis

kristiedavis1 · July 2011

Week One Knowledge Challenge
1. Yes, I am finally motivated to make the changes needed for my success to last a lifetime. I have already made so many changes and can honestly say there are very few things that I have let go of that I actually miss. And the things I do miss I just have in moderation - and I now understand moderation. I want this first for me and then for my family.
2. I am addressing the major distractions in my life. My financial situation just is what it is and until I finish school I can't change any of that. But this weight thing, I can change and if I wait until I get all the other things taken care of, I might just be dead.
3. I would love to reach my goal weight in a year, but that ain't happening. I would like 2 pounds a week but understand that I may not get that either. With the food plan I have and the excerices I'm doing 1-2 pounds is realistic.
4. I have looked at all of my emotional issues and though they cause me to make bad choices sometimes they don't typically affect my overall eating. I do identify each of my emotional outbursts and the reasons behind them and consider my choices before they change any part of the life I want for myself and my family. I don't always succeed but I'm trying.
5. I have great support and accountability. MFP helps as does my family and some great friends who are all walking through this journey of mine and pushing me when I slow down and picking me up when I stumble.
6. I have embraced every part of this journey. No, I don't like all of it, but I understand it must become a part of me for me to become the healthier version of me that I so desire to be.

kristiedavis1 · July 2011

Week one Question: What are your challenges to excercise?
Every one of the barriers listed in this article have been an excuse of mine at some point in my past. Now, my only challenge truly is just making myself do it and carving out the time on the days I work to do it. I have been successful at meeting my excercise goal for several weeks now until a little health issue slowed me down this week, but it hasn't stopped me. Do I love excercie? NOOOOO!!!!! But, I do love how I feel after I excercise and I know it has helped me progress more quickly to the goals I have set for myself. It also gives my family, especially my husband, something we can share.

kristiedavis1 · July 2011

Wow Veronica...I am in awe at the answers to these questions. As a mother, I can imagine how difficult the choices you have had to make must have been. It seems as if you have faced each tough decision with grace in the midst of uncertaintly. I appreciate your honest responses and am motivated but what you have accomplished in your journey.

kristiedavis1 · July 2011

So glad everybody is here.

LauraLLee · July 2011

So I probibly will not have time to do the questions today...funny since I have had them ready for a few weeks now...Anyway I did get a walk in and I managed to get a mile in. I am proud that I got out there and did it. Not so happy about the calorie burn, so next time I am going to have to up my walk abit. (Just so everyone knows I went to the local jr high and walked their track.)
I hope everyone get some movement in today. And those who are more advanced than some of us I hope you amp up your workouts and push yourselves as you are our inspiration and examples!
Have a great night!

DorothyNorrington · July 2011

So I probibly will not have time to do the questions today...funny since I have had them ready for a few weeks now...Anyway I did get a walk in and I managed to get a mile in.

Great Job Laura! I will not be answering questions tonight either. It was my regularly scheduled date night with Ray. But, I plan on taking care of that in the AM after my swim hopefully! Fantastic on the walk. Haw many times around the track is a mile? I never thought about walking on my local track. Might be nice for a change of scenery and throw in a couple laps of the bleachers for a great leg and butt workout!

DorothyNorrington · July 2011

I work just short of full time as a special education paraprofessional (I'm a one on one aide to a little 3rd grader with severe visual impairments- for the summer, I'm working part time in a class with 9 autistic little boys).

Veronica,

I was so excited that you work as a paraprofessional. It is very near and dear to my heart. I did that for 6 years while I put myself through college to be a Special Education teacher. I worked in several different settings; mild/moderate, severe/profound, and also a behavior classroom. I loved each and every opportunity and the opportunity to work with such great students.

You story touched me. The choices you had to make as a parent were difficult ones, but it sounds like you made the best decision for your son and your family.

What a strong woman you must be!

Dorothy

DorothyNorrington · July 2011

Knowledge Challenge

1. Are you motivated to make long-term lifestyle changes?

I feel that I am motivated to make the necessary changes in order to live the life I was destined to have. I don't expect it to be easy, but I know that I can do it. I also know from past experience that there will be times when I make a choice that is in direct competition with what I want to achieve. I need to learn how to deal with those times and let it be what it is and move on to doing what I should be doing.

2. Have you addressed the big distractions in your life?

I am lucky in that I lead a very good life with few distractions. I am a bit nervous about work this year because I was transferred to a new school and I just don't know what to expect. I don't have a support system in place there (yet) and I am a firm believer that life revolves around our relationships with others. It will be difficult at first because I don't have those relationships developed yet. One of the important things that I remind myself is that exercise and taking care of me make the distractions that I have less control over such as finances, easier to handle.

3. Do you have a realistic picture of how much weight you'll lose and how quickly?

I have 113 pounds to lose to reach my goal. I hope to reach it in 2 years (by the time I am 40). I am aiming for a weight loss of 1.5 lbs. a week. It is slower that I would like, but I am hoping that it will even out, and that at the beginning, I may average closer to 2lbs. week and on difficult weeks that I can still manage a pound a week. In the past, I have struggled when I have maintained or gained at my weekly weigh-in, and I let it sabotage my efforts, thus causing a bad cycle. I am hoping to be as kind and patient with myself this time as I am with others.

4. Have you resolved any emotional issues connected to your weight?

I am very much an emotional eater. I eat for a wide variety of reasons, and most are not because I am physically hungry. I eat when I am bored, sad, happy, nervous, and the list goes on and on. I think for now, I need to start by recognizing what I am feeling when I eat, and explore why. It will be a very difficult habit to break! I think that I will start by acknowledging the emotion, and finding either other activities to fill that need, or healthier options to eat.

5. Do you have support and accountability?

I am lucky in that Ray is extremely supportive of me. He also has a lot of weight to lose, and I think that he feels if I am trying, that it makes it easier for him as well. He benefits from the healthier meals. My son CJ is a whole different story. Being 15 and very active in swimming, weight is not a problem for him. I have not set the best example for him, and he is a very picky eater! He rarely eats fruit or veggies, and everything is highly processed. I keep hoping that my changes will make him more aware, but it just causes arguments at this point. I also hope to use the online tools more this time around. It is nice to have a support group online that I can access night or day. I do struggle within social situations because I was always, and still am, the get together place. I hosted game nights, and bar-b-ques, and movie nights. I also made sure that we ate very well, (not healthy) when we did get together. I have friends that have not been as supportive in this area. So that might bring some difficulties to light as I get further along in this journey.

6. Have you embraced the weight-loss challenge?

I am excited for the journey! I know it won't be easy, but I am ready for a change and an opportunity to live the life I was meant to live!

Dorothy

DorothyNorrington · July 2011

Week One Question:
What are your challenges to exercise regularly?

At one time or another, I think I have had all of the challenges listed! But, I know that they were really excuses.

The only challenge I see now to exercising regularly is that I don't put myself first. I am so busy taking care of everyone else that I come last. I need to remember that I have to take care of myself in order to be able to take care of anyone else. I need to remind myself that 30 minutes a day they can take care of themselves, or someone else can take care of the problem.

Seems like such an easy solution, now to try to implement it!

Dorothy

McHeather · July 2011

Sorry I'm a day late to add my info - we were travelling all day yesterday. I managed to weigh myself before we left (at 5 am=() I was back up to 162. (too much whisky and marshmallows at the McGregor reunion) so I'm still holidaying and determined to not gain while I'm here for the week. My measuements this morning are:

SW 162
neck 14
bust 36 1/2
hips 38
waist 34 1/2
thigh 23
arm 11

My goal for the next 8 weeks is to hit 155 - and lose some excess belly fat. I'm pretty happpy with my weight loss and think I could maintain - If I don't go back to my old habits - but I really would like to slim down my waist line some more.
My answers:
1.Are you motivated to make long-term lifestyle changes? I am motivated - I've changed my eating to be as healthy as possible - very low on the preservatives - high in power foods. I make smart choices at restaraunts 90% of the time. I still break down and binge more than I'd like but I sure choose the the right foods ALOT more than I ever used to. I'm feeling so good with the changes I've made, I can't imagine giving up and backsliding. Yeaterday we went to a new playground for the kids and I spied an outdoor excersize area for adults and can you imagine - I squealled and and ran for the equipment - I was so excited to see it. (I'd been in the van all day) Three? years ago I would have turned my head away and felt guilty that I really didn't feel like going over there to check it out.
2.Have you addressed the big distractions in your life? Big distratctions for me are my family - so I'm trying to involve them. My teenage daughter and husband are loving the new foods I'm coming up with. My young boys - not so much - although my six year old ate lots of spinach the other day because we picked out of our garden. when I take them to the park - I play with them to get my heart rate up. I'd love to go biking with them but they have no interest. Another distratction is work related issues- I've decided that I don't want to be a teacher - I need a job that doesn't require homework - so I'm really trying to not let that stress rule my food choices. Prayer is helping me - trying to turn to Jesus for help rather than food.
3. Do you have a realistic picture of how much weight you'll lose and how quickly? I'm very realistic I think - I've lost my excess wieght very slowly. My son is turning 8 this summer and when I came home from that hospital with him I was 205. since then I went down to 185 for my wedding 7 years ago. then had another boy 6years ago and came home at 205 again. for my friends wedding 2 years ago i got down to 167 - then back up a bit and now since 1 year on my fitnesspal I'm down to around 160. each 5 pound milestone has taken forever, but I'm still at it and just celebrating each loss.
4. Have you resolved any emotional issues connected to your weight? - I'm a stress/ binge eater. I have depression that I battle with the help of Jesus, cognitive behaviour therapy and my new healthy lifestyle.
5. Do you have support and accountability? Myfitness pal! My husband, my mom, two reallly good friends and Jesus.
6. Have you embraced the weight-loss challenge? I'm all for this challenge - It keeps me focussed and makes me think twice before I eat anything that may not fit into my calorie count or my healthy food category.
So Are you Ready? I am very ready - except I'm on holidays this week. So one goal I will accomplish this week is NO fish and chips. we really like to find good seafood places here in nanaimo and I'll order any seafood but the deepfried kind. As for walking a mile - we do a lot of trails and hikes and seawall meandering. I'll try to get more of a burn and cardio walk in the evenings without the kids.
I'm so thrilled to be a part of this challenge - thanks Laura.

DorothyNorrington · July 2011

Yeaterday we went to a new playground for the kids and I spied an outdoor excersize area for adults and can you imagine - I squealled and and ran for the equipment - I was so excited to see it.

This sounds like so much fun! What a wonderful example you are setting for your children! I remember how much I used to love to play on equipment; playground, trampolines, and kickball. I hope to eventually get to the point where I enjoy those activities and many more again.

Dorothy

LauraLLee · July 2011

Dorothy a mile around the track is typically 4 times.
Heather! I am so glad you made it! It seems like so long since I have heard from you! Welcome!

DorothyNorrington · July 2011

Thanks Laura, I appreciate you responding! I think I am going to go in the AM.

stepbystep6 · July 2011

Is it too late to join? This sounds just like the challenge I need (and have needed for a long time!) I know a lot! I need to figure out how to put it into practise!

idahogirl71 · July 2011

As of July 8th:

Sw 325.8
Neck 15"
Bust 44"
Waist 47"
Hips 69"
Thighs 31"
Arms 15"

My goals during this challenge are to drink a minimum of 98 oz of water daily and to lose 10 pounds.

LauraLLee · July 2011

Friday 1.2 Miles
Saturday 2 hours of walking! I think we walked about 3 miles but not really sure!

I have to say I love challenges they really get me to move more!

How bout you all? Hope your having a great weekend!

idahogirl71 · July 2011

In response to the Mayo Clinic's assessment of willingness to change ~~

1. Are you motivated to make long-term lifestyle changes?

Yes - not only am I ready, but I have been working on this for a few months now. I joined MFP on January 19th of this year weighing in at 375 pounds. I had been referred by my doctor last year to a bariatric surgeon for gastric bypass. I was placed on a meal replacement plan (which cost over $6,000 for 3 months) and lost 36 pounds on the program and working out with a personal trainer. After losing the 36 pounds in pre-op prep for surgery I decided I wanted to lose the weight naturally rather than going through with the surgery. Needless to say I regained the 36 plus an additional 12 landing me at 375. A friend told me about MFP so I joined. In the first 3 months I lost 45 pounds and have been maintaining the loss over the last 2 1/2 months. I have been through 4 plateaus in the last 6 months, but have learned to endure them and fight through then rather than giving up as I have always done in the past.

2. Have you addressed the big distractions in your life?

Yes -- I got married in December, I work full-time, and am a full-time college student. I had issues with time management so as an elective in my first year of school I took a time-management course which taught me that I can do anything and everything I need to do so long as I prioritize and do not intentionally set myself up for failure. It is easy to use the excuse that I have NO time for exercise, but in reality I have plenty of time for it. It is all about scheduling it in and not letting life get in the way. For me it is making a decision each day before I get out of bed that today life's hurdles are not going to stop me from doing what I want to do and what I need to do in order to become healthy and fit.

3. Do you have a realistic picture of how much weight you'll lose and how quickly?

I have to laugh when reading this question. We all tend to want to lose weight rapidly, yet most of know there is no magical fix to weight loss. I used to set myself up for failure expecting too much too fast and then I would sabotage myself even further by falling into depression or beating myself up when I did not meat my astronomical goals. I would binge eat and then get angry with myself about that. It was a vicious cycle! I have now learned to set small, obtainable goals for my weight loss. For instance, I need to lose almost 200 more pounds to be at my goal weight, but instead of focusing on that huge number and getting discouraged, I set small increment goals for myself between 10 and 25 pounds at a time. I give myself 1-3 months for each goal. I did not reach my last goal because of being on a 3 1/2 week plateau so instead of getting upset and finding a fad diet to fix it, I reset my goals again.

4. Have you resolved any emotional issues connected to your weight?

I have always struggled with this. When I lose 30-40 pounds I panic and eat everything in site to regain the weight I have lost. I have been doing that since the age of 9 when I was placed on my first diet. I have been to counselors and no one could explain to me what was going on. I decided to do a 12 week 12 step eating program by the MInrith Meyer Clinic called Love Hunger. I did not follow the eating plan per se, but I did the workbook and what a difference it has made. I am able to love myself enough now to no longer hide behind my weight. I am also majoring in Psychology so that I can one day help others who struggle with these issues. I found in working this program that being molested as a child and having a controlling mother were huge factors in my obesity. Once I worked through those issues, I have been able to lose over 40 pounds, keep it off, and not feel like I am losing control.

5. Do you have support and accountability?

Yes and Yes!! I have the support of my husband, my friends, my Bible Study group, and my MFP friends and groups. I am in 2 other groups besides this one where I find accountability, love, and support. I am able to confide in the women in those groups of my struggles and battles in this journey. My husband and I are losing weight together so that also holds me accountable to a level that at times I want deep down, but don't want on the surface level.

6. Have you embraced the weight-loss challenge?

I absolutely love the challenges I get being in groups on MFP. I find that when I have challenges in this journey I do better. I find myself more motivated to exercise when I am in a challenge for exercise. I love watching the Biggest Loser and have sent in 3 times to try out for the show. The thing that appeals to me the most about it is the weekly challenges. I think being a competitive person, this has been one of the many things in this journey that has consistently pushed me forward and me fight so hard for what I want.

Turn your knowledge into Power Challenge

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