First of all I must comment on the extreme level of positive support from everyone on this site.  I couldn’t help but sign up for a premium membership based on the podcasts I have received since last year, and now that I have looked around for a day, I’m glad I joined.

A little about myself ... over the last 6 years, I have gone from a physically demanding job to an office chair, quit smoking, and discovered a delicious buffet of fine foods while entertaining clients.  As one might imagine, I have blossomed into something that I never wanted to be.  I left the field at a fit 195 lbs, but now tip the scales at 252 as of this morning ... I peaked at 273 about 6 weeks ago.

Having never been “big” before (much less this big), I find it a challenge to do certain things I used to take for granted.  I can no longer cuddle with my daughter on the sofa, since I now cover the entire thing.  Tying my shoes proves a struggle since my belly got in the way, and I can no longer fill the tub with water as it is sure to overflow the instant I crawl in.

I am well on my way back to being my former self.  Life is not fun like this, nor should it be.  For anyone who hasn’t experienced the “fit side of life”, I challenge you to join me in my quest.  I will cuddle with my kids again, tie my shoes and enjoy a full, hot bath.  The amazing life that awaits us is more than worth the effort we are making now.

I am not really seeking help or support, although I bet you anything it will still be there.  I look forward to all the friends I will make here, and hope I can be of some support for them as they journey towards a healthier lifestyle.

In the meantime and inbetween time,
Cheers

Welcome Derek! You certainly have all the reasons, and wonderful goals to help you succeed! I look forward to watching you shrink back to your real self.

Bree

Welcome Derek…

I know what you mean....

and to be fit is all worth the effort (which is a fun effort when you come right down to it)

I always put goals in front of me to reach..... then I know if I’m accomplishing things that I set out to do.....

What are your goals? specifically?

Thanks.  Yes good idea, lets get this out in the open now.

My immediate goals specifally are:

1. eat healthy and in proper moderation (not dieting, but just a proper diet)
2. exercise for 45 to 60 minutes a day with my kids
3. exercise without the use of machines, only my body through yoga, pilates, etc. This way I always have my gym with me

These are simple and achievable.  Soon I will develop more long term ones. I have been avoiding doing that.  That’s the procrastination in me, but we can talk about that tomorrow

specifically..... how many lbs do you want to lose?

Tom,

I’m not quite sure where my weight should be.  When I stopped being so active I was 195lbs with about 10% body fat.  I know I don’t have that much muscle any more. My goal is to get back into the 10-12% body fat range.  I’m thinking somewhere in the 180-185lb range.

WOW...that’s FIT!

Very fit, and if you were there once, you’ll definitely get back there again!

Bree