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Hello.

JonathonMars
JonathonMars Posts: 358 Member
edited December 2024 in Introduce Yourself
Hi everyone.

I joined a little over a month ago, but have only started tracking my food (and eating better) in the last four days. Ever since I was 11 or so, I've struggled with my weight--never was athletic, never into sports, etc. I'm 196 now, and I'd say 175 or so is my "normal" weight (the weight I am without overeating, but also not really being health conscious), but the past few years have taken a big toll on my health. At one point, I was 165, but I still felt--not the right size. My short term goal is to reach 155 for the first time in adult life (short term being 6 months to a year). I'm not sure how I'll feel at this weight--I may still feel too big, who knows? But when it comes, I'll reassess things. My long terms goals are to become more comfortable with my body, and hold it in equal esteem to my mind. I'm interested in developing my mind, spirit and body in a healthy way that doesn't leave out one of these important parts. I want to throw away the idea that I'm "not athletic" because I believe if you have a body, you are (or should be) athletic, even if you don't have a talent for sports. I think being more grounded in my body will help my emotions and mind be more quiet and settled. I am also cutting my caffeine intake to help with better sleep. Another long term goal is to eat more organic and natural foods, but that may be a few years (and $) off.

So far, I've not been exercising. I feel like I'm not out of shape enough where it would warrant me being cautious, but am still hesitant about getting started. I should just start and get over it, right? The idea of exercising is kind of embarrassing (ugh, I know I can't be crazy and others feel this way). This is what I mean by a healthy relationship with my body! Haha.

Replies

  • NicholeRobb
    NicholeRobb Posts: 166 Member
    I joined here 12 days ago. My starting weight was 260. I am 5'4. I have been overweight most of my life. Just because ur heavy doesn't mean u can't or shouldn't wrk out. Being cautious is def understandable though. Like for me I have high blood pressure so I don't really want to cause myself a heart attack so if I have to modify even the already modified exercises I do. I am still reaping the benefits until my body can handle more intense workouts. If ur not ready for full blown workouts start by just getting more activity into ur day no matter what it is. As long as ur body is moving ur still burning cals. Take more walks, or park further from the doors when u go to the store. Find some stairs to climb. Anything. Ur body will thank you & in time u will find u have more endurance & strength for things. It may seem small, but it all makes a diff.
  • taradeshea1024
    taradeshea1024 Posts: 1
    Hello Jonathan,
    I too recently joined this site. I am not a "fit" person, never really had been. I have been overweight all of my life, however, I loved to play sports when I was younger, although I never really joined a team. In the neighborhood I grew up in, I stayed outside playing kickball, football, tag... you name it. I had never let my size stop me. However I find that difficult now as an adult with children. I can understand how you feel about exercising now as an adult. Although I have tried to engage into some type of activity, it was never consistent. One of the things that I had found helpful to me when exercising outside is to keep in mind that you are the only opinion that matters, NO ONE ELSE. Put on your earphones and turn on your music that gets you pumping and take yourself into your own world, where it is just you and the exercise you are doing. Besides one of the things that I have come to realize is that those who see you exercising are usually encouraged to do something for themselves as well. :happy: And it you still find your self a bit bashful outside, there are some really good fitness videos that work great, like Tae Bo, P90X, and Insanity (although these last 2 are expessive). Keep up the fight, you'll reach your goal.:wink:
  • Alicai
    Alicai Posts: 55
    Hi and welcome to MFP. The thing that worked for me the best is picking up new friends along the way to give me a'virtual' kick every time I don't make enough effort. Feel free to add me as a friend too if you'd like some support.

    :-)
  • JonathonMars
    JonathonMars Posts: 358 Member
    Thank you so much for the offer, Alicai! Wil definitely do so.
  • Alicai
    Alicai Posts: 55
    You're welcome. Friend request accepted.

    P.S. That isn't a picture of me, just in case you were wondering. My ears are smaller.....
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