bizco Member

First, congratulations on recognizing that strength training is essential. Very smart! I recommend going to your local library (or Amazon) and start reading about weight lifting. The amount of weight to lift isn't an easy question, it's different for everyone based on many factors. I started by reading "The New Rules of…

How much do you have to lose? If it's a lot (25+ lbs.) then being under your calorie goal by only 50-200 isn't a big deal. Walking is a great way to start exercising. Keep your pace brisk, not just a leisurely stroll. As time goes on you will be able to increase your time on the eliptical. Just keep on plugging on. You…

Skip the crunches. Just focus on keeping your core (abs) tight/flexed while performing compound moves like squats, lunges (front, back, side), push-ups (even if done on your knees), mountain climbers and planks (regular and side).

This helped me tremendously. http://www.acaloriecounter.com/weight-loss.php#section11

The Firm Calorie Explosion is comprised of four 12-minute workouts, plus a 3 minute warm-up and 4 minute cool-down/stretch. So pick two of the workouts, never skip warm-up and cool-down and you have a great 31 minute workout.

Precisely. Especially when it's the first post from a person who joined MFP 2-1/2 years ago.

It's polite and proper gym etiquette to invite them to work in a set during your 1-2 minute rest period. Be clear up front how long your rest period is and ask if them to return the favor and finish their one set during that time.

I completed NROL4W and loved it! It works every single part of your body. Unlike 5x5, it also works every part at different angles. For those saying it's a beginner program, that's crap. Just like all others, add more weight/resistance if you're not challenged.

Cabbage Soup diet.

Yes.

Rebecca De Mornay.

What is your BMR? Click on "APPS" then on "BMR" right underneath. My guess is 1100 calories is way too little and your body is fighting tooth and nail to hold onto every little bit of fat to prevent starvation. Never eat below your BMR.

I wear capri-length running pants, a sports bra UNDER a t-shirt. I'm there to workout, it's not a fashion show.

Personally I won't go near a Smith machine for the same reasons as Dav stated. Big risk for injury. For your chest, do good old-fashioned push-ups. Bonus of working your core, shoulders, triceps, glutes, etc. with the many different variations.

1st: boobs :sad: Last: lower abs :mad:

Chuck Taylor shoes

Sorry dear, but 6lb. weights won't get the job done. Go to the library and check out books on weight training to educate yourself, or read some articles online. Start a progressive weight lifting program. You'll be amazed at how you can transform your body in a relatively short period of time if you lift 3x per week and…

You should feel very proud. Quite an accomplishment!

+1.

For me, size is more important. I can get the other stimulation from my toy.

Determine the time it takes to complete, then log it as "Aerobics, general" under the Cardio section of the Exercise tab.

30 Day Shred is more cardio, not strength training. Just because you're holding 3 lbs. dumbbells doesn't make it strength training. Pass on more cardio and start a progressive lifting program.

I completed the program "The New Rules of Lifting for Women" and I did it alone. I watch videos on bodybuilding.com and other sites when I needed help with form, but the book has pictures that are helpful too. As far as needed a spotter, the only time I felt I needed one was when I wanted to increase the weight on my bench…

I agree with the others. Lifting will aid in weight loss and minimize muscle loss. Don't wait.

Using a digital food scale to weigh everything in grams is a real eye opener. Measuring spoons and cups are VERY deceitful. Two of my staple foods are oats and peanut butter. One serving of oats is 40 grams which according to the label is 1/2 cup. No way. Weigh 40 grams using a food scale and you'll be shocked at how empty…

According to this TDEE calculator you are between moderate and heavy. A workout should last around 30 minutes of moderate to high intensity. I would start with moderate level, follow that for at least one month before making adjustments. http://www.fitnessfrog.com/calculators/tdee-calculator.html

^This. Measuring spoons and cups are terribly inaccurate for everything with the exception of liquids. Buy a digital food scale; best <$20 investment you can make. You're eating way more than you think, guaranteed.

I agree with cwolf and 2120. Way too much volume and isolation exercises. It's doesn't take a personal trainer to follow an established program. Check your local library for free books on weight lifting or Amazon for the book "The New Rules of Lifting for Women." It costs about $10. Compound moves that are a must include…

It isn't muscle gain. 30 Day Shred isn't strength training, it's cardio using light dumbbells. It could be that you're overestimating your calorie burn from the workouts. How are you determining your calorie burn? Are you wearing a chest strap HRM? Using MFP's exercise database?

I would speak to your neighbor (or write a note) and explain that you're exercising for good health. They can't complain about that! A 30-40 minute cardio workout shouldn't be that big of a deal. You can also do strength training which doesn't make any noise at all. Unless you drop a dumbbell. :smile: