Okay, I'll start. Like I emailed John when I first discovered his site, I have no desire to "get ripped" or "bulk up". I'm 30 years old, married 5 years, and my husband introduced me to the joys of computer games and beer on lazy Sunday afternoons. Couple that with a more sedentary lifestyle/job, age slowing my metabolism, and a terrible diet, I have a lot of work to do to change my habits.

My goals are to get leaner (currently 5'8" and 169) and stronger. I want muscles, but not like John's :D I want to look good in those daily progress photos I'm taking!

I have a goal of April 1- the day I set foot on a plane for a 3 week vacation in Europe.

So how 'bout you, ladies? What are your goals and why are you here?

Hi Andi-

I just want to be healthier, overall. I used to run cross country in high school, but stopped in college. Now I've been out a couple of years (I'm 23), and probably couldn't run 2 miles. Yuk! I look ok physically, I think (I'm 5'1"/110), but I think I'm pretty unhealthy. I don't exercize, and I sit in front of a computer all day long.

I saw John's site and decided to get serious about being in shape. I don't want muscles like John's either ;-) but I do want to have more muscle tone and definition.

Currently, I'm doing research. I've started tracking everything I eat every day and discovered that the reason I'm able to maintain such a good weight is that I don't eat nearly enough calories. I'm not sure (I'm still looking for a good calculator -- any suggestions), but I think I should be getting about 1400-1600 calories a day (particularly if I want to be more active.) Without adjusting anything that I eat, I've discovered that I'm only eating about 1000-1100 calories a day! Way too low. But I don't experience hunger at that level.

I'm investigating my options for working out. I'm thinking about incorporating a great deal of yoga (for stress relief) into my workout, which I know John isn't doing. Ia lot of cardio, but I haven't decided what level of weight training I'm going to take on. So still doing research... I plan to see a personal trainer before I start, as well as my doctor.

What are your workout plans, anyone?

Right now my main goal is to get back on track eating correctly. :eat:
Its been pretty crappy since right before the holidays. My goal is to get back to what I was doing of eating 5 times a day 1 protein, 1 carb (not really breads but like carb veggies) more soy milk instead of regular (oh god how I love milk) and more wheat breads and such as opposed to white. Once I get back on track with that I'll concentrate on working out as well. One baby step at a time... :db: hehehehe

My goal is to tone up and build some muscle. I really just want to be healthier and I don't want to lose any weight. I definitely want my muscles more defined. :bb:
I'm 38, 5'6" and about 109 lbs. I want to stay the same size.... just better LOL

Hello ladies,
My goals are fairly lofty, but hopefully attainable. I hope to lose 50 lbs of fat while gaining as much muscle as possible. Think Linda Hamilton in T2 or, better yet, Gabrielle on Zena. I think visible muscles on women are sexy - I know many women don't though.
I'm 34, 185 lb, 5' 6" so you know I have way too much junk in my trunk. I was skinny my whole childhood and very athletic. With softball pitching forever, throwing discus and shotput, and playing marching baritone in junior high and high school I had a very muscular upper body (slender legs, what can I say). I weighed a lean 144 lbs when I went to college, but it's slowly gone down hill from there. I'd love to get back to that. I've tried numerous diets over the years, but it's the same old story.
My biggest problem is my diet (and my ass :rolleyes: ). I know to lose weight I need to eat only about 1600 calories, but I have a hard time picturing what that looks like or planning out how to do that. I have no patience for trying to count up every little calorie. What I need is just a diet plan I can blindly follow which contains the right number of calories in the right proportions. (Boy, if that's not asking a lot...) Anyone know of any such thing out there that doesn't contain a lot of complicated recipes?
I've planned out an exercise schedule for myself that is basically John's. Will it work the same way for women? Maybe you guys could tell me what you think?
Monday - treadmill 30-45 min.
Tuesday - treadmill 15-20 min. weights: back and biceps
Wednesday - treadmill 30-45 min. Abs.
Thursday - treadmill 15-20 min. weights: quads, calves, hamstrings
Friday - treadmill 30-45 min.
Saturday - treadmill 15-20 min. weights: pecs, delts, triceps
Sunday - treadmill 30-45 min. Abs.
1600 cal/day (somehow figuring out how to do that)
water 1 gallon/day
Will this get me where I want to go?

Hello girls!! Wonderful to have a forum fitted for us! :claplow:

Please excuse my long mail, as well as my poor grammar, English not being my first language. :)

I am a 34 year old Norwegian, 5'6'' (? 168 cm) and weighs 176 pounds well distributed all over. With my heavy bone structure, I think it would be good and wise to get down to about 140 pounds.

I'd love to have a toned body, with some muscle showing - though only for the healthy look, and not for the "bigness". I think to some extent, showing muscles on women are beautiful.

I am now on a diet somehow similar to the weightwatchers - not quite the same - so I believe I get the support I need on the diet (or do I?).

I have had a neck problem for some months (start of November), that causing me loosing all appetite, throwing up etc for two weeks because of the pain. Of course I lost some weight, but it came more than twise on when I started eating normally again. Also the neck problem has been the reason why I have not been able to start exercising. Only the past two weeks have I taken my first walks. Getting better - but slowly - I don't find that as a problem, since I'm going to reach my goal no matter how long time it takes! I do look forward to some hard work out sessions, lift weights and so on, though!

I don't know if any of you think the same as me, that I don't want to spend most of my spare time exercising? Working shifts take quite a bit of my time, and often I work when my friends are off. I really do not want to go to the gym more than two-three times a week, and then be "active" (walking, sking, etc.) with friends. What do you think, is it way to little compared to your goals?

I am dreaming of becoming like those who just "have" to have a power walk or bike ride during the day to feel good... Any hints on how to get there?

Here in Norway we have quite different food from you in the States - as well as the other nationalities that are here in these forums. I actually always bake my own bread, because it is more tastier and healthier and contains qiute a bit of more fiber than regular bread bought in the store. I try to keep within 1400 calories a day, but if I - or any of you - work out particularly hard one day or over a period, it is wise to increase the calorie intake. (For instance if you go on one week of skiing in the Alps, as I am in March, or cross country skiing over many hours.) And the heavier you are starting out on the diet, the more calories you actually need in the beginning to be able to loose weight.

Ansett, a tip for you. Take one day and weigh up some of the food that you regularly eat. I should have 230 calories for breakfast, and usually eat bread.
Weigh up the bread (130 calories) and add some lean meat, cheese, or jam you like on (weighed and count the calories first time). If you use a slice of meat, it is very easy every time you choose that. You know how much you are eating, and what you get. I also put some salad leaves on together with red peppers, or cucumber. Gives me more to chew, more to fill up, and it looks delicate and very healthy! Have about the same for lunch - may be a different kind of meat or cheese - and you have that meal delt with as well. For supper I have 1/4 of potatoes, pasta or rice, 1/4 of meat or fish and 1/2 of vegetables, raw or cooked. Two fruits inbetween, a yoghurt (low fat) or glass of milk, some carrots or other raw vegetable, and there you have my day. THAT part doesn't have to be difficult, it's the steering away from what NOT to eat that get's to me...

I have a question about powders and suppliments and such. How necessary are they, and what do they really do?? I prefer to eat regular food, and am not in the situation that I need more calories than that food can give. besides, I am a bit sceptic, since I'm not familiar with any kind of powder.

Xray :tu:

Think Linda Hamilton in T2 or, better yet, Gabrielle on Zena. I think visible muscles on women are sexy - I know many women don't though

I agree- I like the Linda Hamilton look, as well. That is close to what I want- just ever so slightly less muscle, perhaps.

Hi ladies, can I jump on board here? I'm a Canadian chicky, yet currently living overseas in South Korea. I stumbled upon this website by accident, and was so motivated by what I saw. Wow, I hope I can do this.

First of all, I was once over 200 pounds, but I am now 154. I did weight 140 this past summer, but gained that back as I got married, and went travelling for five months and didn't exercise or think twice about what I ate. I was a glutton. And, I lived to regret it.

I've been working out since October again, but haven't been able to lose any weight. I eat 40/40/20 ratios protein/carbs/fat and exercise about 5 times a week - 3 times a week cardio and weights, the other 2 days just cardio. I allow myself one freeday whenever I really need it - say if the hubby wants to order pizza or something. And I really like wine.

So, anyhow - my goal is to get down to 135 by summer time thereabouts. Or just to look good in a bikini. I also want to run 5 km without walking, and do more pushups than my husband (i'm so competitive)...

Its great to meet you all, and I hope that we can motivate and support each other seeing as we have such a great place to do it!!!

Heather

Hi girls! Hope you don't mind if I join in your little group. I must me the senior member here, I'm 46 and weight 172 and am 5'4". I'm hoping to get down to about 125 - 130 and gain some definition. I joined a gym 1 week ago and have gone everyday and today I'm getting my husband to join also. I do a variation of a low carb diet, not atkins or south beach, I'm just eating all whole foods and good carbs, nothing processed or prepackaged. I know I'm a late starter in this healthy lifestyle game but I decided I wasn't going to be intimidated at the gym because at least I was there and I'm doing something about my health.

Wishing everyone great progess and looking forward to seeing great results and encouraging each other.

So here's my story:
I have been overweight basically all my life(I'm 24 now). When I hit puberty, I never lost that baby fat that you usually do, and my weight has increased slowly and steadily since then. I've never been a binge eater, or anything like that, and have frankly always been confused as to why I am this way. Different doctors have suggested different reasons, but none have ever suggested any real solutions.

While I have always wanted to be thinner, I never really took any initiative until about 8 months ago. Before then I was fairly active, played baseball all my life, rode bikes, went for hikes and stuff, but all sporadically. While working in Germany as a nanny, I decided to start going to the gym, and I really enjoyed it.

Now I am back home in Canada, and have been working out here for 3 months. I have had some success, lossing 15lbs and gaining a lot of muscle strength, but I want to step things up.

Currently I am 286lbs, and 5"9'. Obviously, I have a lot of weight to lose. It had never occured to me that there would be people documenting similar experiences on the web. I love it,it's very inspiring.

Up until now I have not changed my diet at all, but I recently did some research, and I am not eating enought calories in a day, and what I am eating is not the right proportions of fat/carbs/protein.
So my plan is this:
-keep working out 4-5 days a week with weight training and 20min cardio
-Start using protein shakes before and after my workouts, taking calcium and vit C everyday
-keep a proper log of weight, body measurements, and food

Any suggestions to help me along would be greatly appreciated!
thanks

I have to jump in an say, Linda Hamilton in T2 is Hot! I wouldn't mind that look myself, although my significant other isn't into it so much.... tough question: do you build muscle to the point that you prefer you look, or to that your significant other prefers?

Dubster, you want to make sure when you do your weight training, keep the weights lighter and do faster reps. If you use heavier weights at slower reps you are going to bulk up and then you wont look like you are making any progress. Make sure to do your cardio first to warm up the muscles for your weight training.... :gl:

Dubster, you want to make sure when you do your weight training, keep the weights lighter and do faster reps. If you use heavier weights at slower reps you are going to bulk up and then you wont look like you are making any progress.


I was doing heavy weights (maximum) and I never bulked up. I have heard that before, but I have also heard it's a myth and that women are very hard-pressed to be able to bulk at all.

I found it to be true for me, but I don't really know if it's like that for all women.

Hello Ladies,
I've been reading your post.You all sound determined and encourageing.
I'll take over as your oldest member. I'm 55- 5'3- and weigh 188 lbs, the most Ive ever weighed! :mad: even counting carrying my 2 childern.(all grown now).This site is exactly what I need. I'm starting today, right after I post this.You and John have inspired me(yes my spelling's Bad). I know I need to eat healthier meals, and develope muscel to help burn off this fat.I even have the weights, I just needed to start, and to be accountable to someone. SO HEAR I GO. THANKS FOR THE PUSH!

Disregard the BMI - it is only a guide....according to it, I'm on the lower border of overweight and have already lost 92lbs/48kgs just to get here! Most ppl that know me in person tell me not to lose any more weight!!

My goal back in 2001 was to lose about 20kg but I have managed to lose 48kg so far. My goal now in 2004 is to continue training to be a kickboxer, increasing lean muscle mass and decreasing my levels of body fat.

Hello Ladies
My cravings are for BREADS. XRAY any chance you'ld put your receipe for that high fiber bread on the receipe thread? Then it would at least be good for me. I did have to cut down on my tea. When it was cold I'ld keep a hot mug by my side all day. I found it easier to go to water then to decaf.; the decaf. tea just reminded me of I was missing. I've done 3 days in a row excersising; but I'm still working out a meal plan. My husband sells fire wood that he cuts , spilts and loads by hand. Get the picture? He does not watch what he eats or need to work out, makes it a little harder (but worth it ) to make 2 meals and ignore his sweets . Also,I hate to but I need to take a before picture. :o

Hello Ladies
My cravings are for BREADS. XRAY any chance you'ld put your receipe for that high fiber bread on the receipe thread? Then it would at least be good for me. I did have to cut down on my tea. When it was cold I'ld keep a hot mug by my side all day. I found it easier to go to water then to decaf.; the decaf. tea just reminded me of I was missing. I've done 3 days in a row excersising; but I'm still working out a meal plan. My husband sells fire wood that he cuts , spilts and loads by hand. Get the picture? He does not watch what he eats or need to work out, makes it a little harder (but worth it ) to make 2 meals and ignore his sweets . Also,I hate to but I need to take a before picture. :o

I'll see what I can do. I have made my own bread for many years, with periods of bakery bread while working and studying abroad. The thing is that I always just "throw in" a little bit of this and a little bit of that... But next time, I'll try to measure up whatever I put in. Another thing is that I might not know the spesific names in English for the flour I use. And finally, if you are from the States, I know from own experience, that your flour is different than ours here in Norway, and that can create "problems" in the kitchen. But if you are patient, I'll try to work out a receipe. :nod:

A question added: I always use sunflower seeds and flax seeds in my bread. Maybe you strict weightlifters and work out guys/girls prefere to not eat that? I mean, sunflower seeds have quite a bit of fat in them... (Should I stop having that in my bread??)

I did have to cut down on my tea. When it was cold I'ld keep a hot mug by my side all day. I found it easier to go to water then to decaf.; the decaf. tea just reminded me of I was missing.

Why are you trying to cut down on tea? I don't think there are any calories, and the caffeine in it will actually aid in fat loss. I'm all for coffee and tea for fat-burning.

Why are you trying to cut down on tea? I don't think there are any calories, and the caffeine in it will actually aid in fat loss. I'm all for coffee and tea for fat-burning.

I'm trying to be healthier by cutting down to "around " 2 cups of tea (with milk) a day, and adding at least 2 qts. water in it's place. I have 40lbs. to lose.

I'll see what I can do. I have made my own bread for many years, with periods of bakery bread while working and studying abroad. The thing is that I always just "throw in" a little bit of this and a little bit of that... But next time, I'll try to measure up whatever I put in. Another thing is that I might not know the spesific names in English for the flour I use. And finally, if you are from the States, I know from own experience, that your flour is different than ours here in Norway, and that can create "problems" in the kitchen. But if you are patient, I'll try to work out a receipe. :nod:

A question added: I always use sunflower seeds and flax seeds in my bread. Maybe you strict weightlifters and work out guys/girls prefere to not eat that? I mean, sunflower seeds have quite a bit of fat in them... (Should I stop having that in my bread??)

Flax seed (oil) has omega-3-6 and-9 fats which boost your body's metabolic rate,and also helps unlock stored body fat so it can be burned for energy. I don't know what kind of fat sunflowers are but their fiber make up for it.I would say keep them all in your receipe! :tucool:

Okay, I'll start. Like I emailed John when I first discovered his site, I have no desire to "get ripped" or "bulk up". I'm 30 years old, married 5 years, and my husband introduced me to the joys of computer games and beer on lazy Sunday afternoons. Couple that with a more sedentary lifestyle/job, age slowing my metabolism, and a terrible diet, I have a lot of work to do to change my habits.

My goals are to get leaner (currently 5'8" and 169) and stronger. I want muscles, but not like John's :D I want to look good in those daily progress photos I'm taking!

I have a goal of April 1- the day I set foot on a plane for a 3 week vacation in Europe.

So how 'bout you, ladies? What are your goals and why are you here?
My goal is to lower my body fat to about 15% by this summer (I have a ways to go as I need to lose about 30 lbs) Then I want to work onmy muscle definition. I am off to a good start and wish all you ladies luck!

Hello ladies,
This is my first post on this site. I've been coming here for a couple of days trying to find enough inspiration to get started on a good diet and exercising more. Seeing Black Beauty's before and after photos were just what I needed. Beauty, you look so good in your after picture I can't believe that you need to loose any extra lbs.

I'm 45 so I won't expect such dramatic results but am looking forward to increased energy and being able to fit clothes better. I'm 5'6, 136 lbs. and need to loose 15-20 fat lbs and want to gain 5-10 lbs. in muscle. I also want to greatly increase my aerobic endurance.

AndiMAC, I like your plan of taking things one step at a time. At the health level that I am at now (mostly recovered from fibromyalgia) I need to be careful to not overdo so I can keep making gains.

Hello girls!

My name is Mariah, I'm 22, 163 cm, 138lbs. My goal is to get more muscles, less fat and get in a good shape. I'm into orientering and need the muscles and the condition.
My english isn't the best but I hope you understand what I mean.

Hello girls!

My name is Mariah, I'm 22, 163 cm, 138lbs. My goal is to get more muscles, less fat and get in a good shape. I'm into orientering and need the muscles and the condition.
My english isn't the best but I hope you understand what I mean.

Your English sounds great Mariah! Considering most of us don't speak Swedish you're miles ahead!! Welcome to the forums and good luck in your goals! This is a great place to learn and get motivated.
:tu:

Hi there,

My name is Bethany, and I'm 5'4" 128 pounds. According to the scale in the bathroom which also does a body fat % measurement (not sure how accurate it is), my body fat % is 27%.

My goal is to get my body fat % down to about 12%, which I think will take me to about 115 pounds if I add 5-10 pounds of muscle. Just like everyone else I'm not looking to get extremely bulky, but I definitely want some visible muscle. I would also like to lower my resting pulse rate which is now around 75-80.

I have an extremely high metabolism, but I am completely and utterly sedentary. My job is rather stressful, and I am constantly busy at work, so when I come home, I just sit around and relax. I think that if I get into great shape, I'll have *much* more energy, discipline, and focus. To me, those mental things are the big motivators because I'm relatively happy with the way I look right now.

My husband started a fitness program a few weeks ago after finding this site on FARK. He's been so dedicated to his new program that it has really inspired me.

Nice to meet all of you. Seeing so many posts in the women's section is really encouraging.

I've never been all that good at goals.

I was about 145 pounds in high school, which is a bit more than what I would like to have been. With four years of university, I added ten pounds, then got pregnant. Two years after the baby was born, i was back to high school weight. I attribute this to drinking lots of MILK, and cutting out all the pop I drank in university.

A few years later, another baby, then back again to point A.

This September, I was having family problems and lost some weight due to stress. I don't have a scale, but I'm about 125 pounds now, I think. Lighter than I've been since I was fifteen! :spaz: I like my new weight, so I'm changing my diet and exercise in order to maintain it. So I'm sort of going backwards, but it works for me.

I gain muscle really easily. People used to ask me all the time if I work out, so I thought I'd see what happened if I actually do! :flex:

I try to go to a fitness class four times a week; once is muscle endurance class and one is a step class. I also try to fit in 15 to 25 minutes on my exercise bike before I go to class some days. On Saturday or Sunday, I work arms, legs, abs, etc. with dumbbells or a resistance band after doing the biking. I'd like to do more strength training, but I don't know where to fit it in. I don't enjoy the aerobics classes all that much, and in my area, there are no alternative instructors, so when it gets warmer, I'll probably swap two of the classes for walking and weight training. Soon, I'll be getting a stability ball, so I'll have some fun figuring out what to do with it!

I hate anything high intensity, so I have to work longer than other people to get the same results, but I'm satisfied with that. I've been going to class for more than a year and just recently started working hard enough to break a sweat. :rolleyes:

I am 5'7 131 pounds and I am looking to bulk a little bit. I have always wanted the classic Linda Hamilton arms and maybe with some time and energy I can get somewhere near that. I have several goals, many like the rest of the ladies. I want to maintain a good diet and continue to workout on a regular basis. I too want to incorporate yoga and pilates into my workout and maybe even a high impact dance aerobics class.

I was very active in highschool and college and now find myself suffering from old sports injuries as well as those I gained from a bad car accident 2 years ago. My big goal is to start running races again and eventually work my way up to a marathon, but I have injured my knee so badly in the past I am unsure that is even a goal I could reach.

Another reason I am trying to stay on track with the workout regiment is because I am undergoing a lot of tests for a hormone imbalance. I think that working out has greatly helped with the depression, anxiety and general laziness. It forces me to get my butt off the couch! Good luck to all of you with your goals! :claplow:

My goal is to tone up and build some muscle. I really just want to be healthier and I don't want to lose any weight. I definitely want my muscles more defined. :bb:
I'm 38, 5'6" and about 109 lbs. I want to stay the same size.... just better LOL

Hi Lisa :) I have the same height as you have but 8 years younger. :o Your weight is 109lbs which is incredible for your age! I believe the ideal weight for our height is 115-120lbs, correct? Good luck on your toning up your muscles! :tucool:

My goal is to cut my weight down to 115lbs from 125lbs along with the Elliptical cardio daily and mild weight training in the first 3 months with the ratio of Pro30%/Carbs50%/Fat20% and when I get there after three months like Lisa, I strictly will be toning up my muscles and maintain my weight with the same ratio (or should I change to 40%/40%/20% if you want to tone up and definite some muscles, I don't want to look like John's current physical appearance :eek: ) ;)

I haven't started my fitness yet as I am still working on to do some research like crazy to change the healthier eating habits. :spaz: Making a food plan (that's the key) is the hardest part of the program... but weight/cardio training is not that hard to do.

Cheerois :tucool:

Hi Lisa I have the same height as you have but 8 years younger. Your weight is 109lbs which is incredible for your age! I believe the ideal weight for our height is 115-120lbs, correct?

Hi Sharky, welcome to the board! :) I don't know how incredible my weight is , as I'm an ectomorph and have always had a hard time keeping any weight on. You are probably right in weight range for our height, but I've never paid much attention to charts like that, because they always seemed on the high side to me. I haven't looked at one in ages, so they have probably been revised a dozen times over since I actually read one:)
I do 40/40/20, and that seems to be a good balance for me- I've just recently increased my calcium intake because of the amount of protein though.
I have a terrible flu right now, so I haven't worked out, but I'll be back to it soon.

Good luck with your goals! You'll find tons of inspiration here and lots of very knowledgable people :)

Hi Lisa :) I have the same height as you have but 8 years younger. :o Your weight is 109lbs which is incredible for your age! I believe the ideal weight for our height is 115-120lbs, correct? :tucool:

My goal is to cut my weight down to 115lbs from 125lbs :tucool:

I'm also 5"6" and 30 years old (as of next week). But my goal is 135 lbs. Today I'm 147 lbs. It all depends on body structure. I probably have a denser build than the two of you. I posted my photos a couple of weeks ago (http://forums.johnstonefitness.com/showthread.php?t=1156). I'm sure you have a good sense of what a healthy weight is for you, and Lisa has a sense of what is good for her. Isn't it amazing how different we all are, even for people of the same height? If I was 109, I would waste away. In fact, according to a recent body comp. I had, I have 111 lbs. of lean mass. Interesting, isn't it?

I'm also 5"6" and 30 years old (as of next week). But my goal is 135 lbs. Today I'm 147 lbs. It all depends on body structure. I probably have a denser build than the two of you. I posted my photos a couple of weeks ago (http://forums.johnstonefitness.com/showthread.php?t=1156). I'm sure you have a good sense of what a healthy weight is for you, and Lisa has a sense of what is good for her. Isn't it amazing how different we all are, even for people of the same height? If I was 109, I would waste away. In fact, according to a recent body comp. I had, I have 111 lbs. of lean mass. Interesting, isn't it?

Wow, I had a look at your photos today, and you're right. That's a perfect example of the difference between large and small frame. You look fabulous at 150 pounds and many people would not.

I think I'm somewhere in the middle there. I'm aiming for 123, but I'm only 5'4.5". Maybe I'll post photos if I can find any decent "before" shots.

Another 5'6' gal here too! I am currently about 143lbs and am looking to get down to about 135 as well. When I first got married 16yrs ago I was about 125 or so, and I looked ghastly. I was all skin and bones...not a pretty site. I definitely have a larger, more solid frame. I've learned too not to compare my weight with other ladies too (not that you are doing that ;) ) I mean...we are all so different....body structure, bone mass etc. I compare myself to myself - where I was, where I am and where I want to be. That is really what is important. My sister in law and I are the same height too but I weigh 25lbs more than she does and wear a smaller size..go figure! To be honest, I don't even care what I weigh. I just want to feel and look amazing no matter what size that happens to be. If it is 135lbs terrific, if it is 120 great...when my muscles are tone and strong and I am feeling great, that's the size I want to be! :tucool:

I too posted my pix a while back. You can take a look if you want. I was 166lbs size 12/13 and now I'm a size 7/8 ALMOST comfortable in a size 5! YIPEE!

http://forums.johnstonefitness.com/showthread.php?t=1123






Stay strong,
Danielle

Danielle, you look great.

Yep, everybody's different. I'm starting to think that maybe I might look worse if I lose more weight. Especially taking into account that muscle weighs more than fat, and I have more muscle now than I did before.

But I'm not restricting my calories, I'm letting my body do what it wants to do, and hopefully it's smart enough to get me to the right place for me. :tu:

I don't really need to lose weight (170cm/63kg), but there is a lot of fat in me that I want to get rid of or turn into muscle. I want to finally be able to like my body, and not be ashamed in a swimming suit. I'm dreaming of a six pack but that won't happen in a long time, if ever :)
Also, my shoulders and back are in really bad shape, and will get even worse if I don't do something - playing the viola for many hours a day isn't good for them. I can't wait to try out the gym program I got done for me yesterday! :db:
Last but definitely not least, I just want to be healthier and feel better. After two weeks I'm already noticing the difference, and I have stopped being such a slob that I was before. This feeling will sure keep me motivated! :jumping: Besides this site, of course... :)
Good luck for everyone with their goals!

Hi everyone,

I'm 23 years old, 5'10" and I used to weigh 330lbs. Currently I weigh in at 176lbs. My goal weight is 174ish. I don't want to go down below 170lbs (I'm a large frame).

I've already managed to lose about 150lbs (since May 2002). At the moment, I'm very close to my ideal weight (those last few pounds are tough). Unfortunately since I lost the weight fast and since it was so much I have a lot of loose skin. My biggest goal is to get rid of that loose skin through continued healthy eating, working out, etc.
Also, just being able to maintain that weight and not go back to the overweight person I was is a major goal for me.

:bb:

Hi everyone,

I'm 23 years old, 5'10" and I used to weigh 330lbs. Currently I weigh in at 176lbs. My goal weight is 174ish. I don't want to go down below 170lbs (I'm a large frame).

I've already managed to lose about 150lbs (since May 2002). At the moment, I'm very close to my ideal weight (those last few pounds are tough). Unfortunately since I lost the weight fast and since it was so much I have a lot of loose skin. My biggest goal is to get rid of that loose skin through continued healthy eating, working out, etc.
Also, just being able to maintain that weight and not go back to the overweight person I was is a major goal for me.

:bb:

Have you posted photos? I'd love to see them. You guys who have lost so much weight really amaze me. :bow:

I'm new to the boards and have been eating healthy - roughly the Zone diet - since January 1st. I'm now to the point where I'm the "size" I want and where eating healthy is easy and habitual. I now want to concentrate on adding exercise, i.e. I want to build some muscle and generally increase my strength, flexibility, and posture.

I've seen great advice and comments thus far. I'm looking forward to sharing everyone's progress.

I really dont have any weight loss I would like to achieve. I would like to lower by bf%(gotta find out where it is though) and replace that weight with muscle, and up my endurance enough to join track.

I really dont have any weight loss I would like to achieve. I would like to lower by bf%(gotta find out where it is though) and replace that weight with muscle, and up my endurance enough to join track.

I guess it doesn't really matter, Fudgam, but this question was posed to the women on the boards :D

Hi! I'm new here. My first visit to John's site was a couple of months ago- must have been not long before these forums went up. I found the site to be extremely motivating and came back yesterday for a refill. :) I was super excited to find these forums because I'm sure they will help motivate me even more.
I am 24 years old, 5'5" and about 143. I'm not exactly sure on the weight since I gave up my scale for Lent. :o I was becoming obsessed with it. My highest weight was 156, which I reached in college. Once I left school (2 years ago) 10lbs dropped off pretty fast. Since then it has been a struggle and I haven't had much success yet.
My main goal is to lower my body fat percentage- I have a Tanita scale that measures body fat. I'm not sure if it's accurate, but I'll use it to track progress for now. I carry a lot of my fat in my stomach, and I have heard there are health problems related to this. Since I can't spot reduce, I will work to lower all of my body fat. I would love to get down to 125-130lbs. I have no specific number in mind. I just want to look good and feel good. :nod:

Is this thread still going??

I've been here for a few weeks, but haven't "jumped" in yet!

There is a diverse group of us here and have debated about whether I "belong!" I am heavier than most - but I am encouraged by you all!

I started my own journey in August of last year with my husband (LiveWire on this board) I have lost 45 lbs since then. However I was at my highest (almost) at that time.

My goals -

Continue to use my eating plan and cardio to shed FAT! First - reach 50 lbs lost! Only 5 lbs away! Second - Be under 200 lbs!! Third - Reach goal of 100 lbs total lost! After that, we'll see where I continue on! I could lose an additional 18-38 lbs after that.

Add toning and strengthening exercises - mostly concerned with upper arms, upper chest, abs and butt. Have saggy skin issue too (like a previous poster said) mostly on arms.


Jetgirl and Christina: Thanks for your posts - you inspire me (not that the others don't but knowing you have done so well and started out over 200 is encouraging!)

Glad to be here :)

Is this thread still going??


Jetgirl and Christina: Thanks for your posts - you inspire me (not that the others don't but knowing you have done so well and started out over 200 is encouraging!)

Glad to be here :)

I'm glad to be here for you honu*girl! Losing 45 lbs. is awesome! I know you know this, but just chip away one day at a time. You know what to do; now just keep at it. It takes a lot of patience. We're here for you on those tough days when you need encouragement... and to help cheer you on when you reach your goals. Be sure to let us know when you reach that 50 lb. mark!

Christina

Wow!

This is my first post on the board and I would like to say that I am finding it to be a great help with regard to my fitness regieme

Like many of you I was extremely active as during High School (Softball, Calisthenics, Jazz Dance, plus the mandatory PE classes at school). Since leaving school I have always had a problem with my weight. I have since found out that I have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and am insulin resistant (visit www.posaa.asn.au for more info on the subject. I believe there is also a site in the US).

Now that I know what my body is actually doing and with my partner providing me with some great reference material to read over the Christmas break I have decided that 2004 is the year that I tackle the condition head on and get on top of it.

As my father is diabetic and my mother has an overactive thyroid I need to get on top of this and stay on top of it.

I am turning 30 next week and would love to get back down to about 70 - 75kg. I am currently 121 kg so I have a considerable amount of weight to lose. I also have a skirt that I wore when I was at modelling school when I was 16 (Gee I sound like a hoarder) so if I can get back into that it would be awesome!

I have been referred to a dietician to help with the weight loss and her recommendations have been

less that 30grm of fat per day
3 meals reduced in size from what I normally ate and 3 snacks a day
minimum of 3 hour exercise a week


So far I am sticking to this pretty well and am going to the gym (cardio and weights) and walking more than I used to. In the first week I lost 3kg so that was a pretty good start.

Well girls it has been great chatting with you all and thanks for taking the time to read this .

I wish you all the very best of luck with your goals and look forward to sharing the journey with you all. ;)

Hi.

I'm 32, 5'3" tall, and 158lbs as of this morning. Hubby and I have been working out for a little over a month now. He found this site and was really inspired. I thought the total time it took for John to go from flabby IT guy to buff (his first phase, that is) was amazing. I am an IT geek too--not system admin, but project management and call center processes.

I use DietPower software to track my calories and exercise. I highly recommend it, since it tracks all the major vitamins and minerals as well as the macronutrients (fat, carbs, protein). It will even remind you to get more water. It can be a bit overreactive at first (it decides how many calories you ought to have based on how you've been doing and what your goals are), but it taught me a lot about food. I also use CalorieKing software on my Palm when I'm at restaurants, since it has calorie counts and macronutrient counts for a lot of fast food places, sit down restaurants, and ethnic foods. So I can see if I'm in the right range in my menu selections. CalorieKing also has a subscription web site with the same gigantic food database so you can log food from anywhere you've got a computer. They also have a library with all sorts of information on nutrition, exercise, and motivations. www.dietpower.com and www.calorieking.com are the two web sites. Not affiliated, just a user.

My first goal is to get to 140, since I haven't been that weight since high school. At that point I will reassess and figure out where next to go. At 5'3", I figure I've got 30-40 lbs to lose, but we'll see.

Second goal is to feel better about my fitness level. Already doing better on that.

Third goal is to get stronger so I'll be able to handle pregnancy. I've been in a sit down job for so long now it's not even funny. I've already noticed improvement in my ab strength--I do 100 mixed crunches every other day with my cardio. Now I can get my shoulders off the ground without having my toes underneath the couch.

I wouldn't mind getting down to a smaller bra size. I have recently discovered that I'm now sized out of regular stores--I have to mail order to get my right fit or else drive for miles to go to places like Fredericks to get stuff in the right cup size. Hopefully peeling off the weight will take some from the bust area as well.

When Hubby was working in auto racing, I was always conscious of the fact that I'm not a 'trophy wife' and I always wanted to be. I wanted him to be proud to show me off. I'm not beautiful in the classic sense, but if I could peel off the extra weight and get a little buff, I could get closer. Being surrounded by pit lizards (the drop-dead gorgeous girls who chase drivers) makes it hard to be less than perfect. Fortunately I don't have the constant reminders anymore, but it's still a sensitive point.

Anyway, most of my reasons for getting fitter and losing weight have to do with deep-seated emotions. Even people who know me would probably look at me funny to hear me explain some of my reasons, just because I don't mention them much. The older I get, the more I hear other people say things that I've felt all my life, so I suppose I'm not unique.

Anyway, I want to be less of a woman than I am today. Hopefully the new plan will get me closer to where I want to go. :flex:

shris
:eat:

Wow, "pit lizards." :) You learn something new everyday. Are those like band groupies except they're after drivers?

Wow, "pit lizards." :) You learn something new everyday. Are those like band groupies except they're after drivers?

Exactly so, Freemason. There's a physical appearance that goes along with the role. It's a tall, thin, tan woman with long hair, typically blonde but not always. She's wearing 4" spike heels even in the unpaved pits of a dirt track. She wears extra short shorts and very skimpy tops, and she's often surgically altered in the frontal upper torso. She is remarkably beautiful. She has a tiny purse on a long spaghetti strap. Her makeup is noticeable and perfectly fresh every moment. She hangs around the pit area, which for non-enthusiasts is the place where the crews work on the cars between races, inside the circle of the track.

I'm not entirely sure where the lizard part comes in, though of course if she's been too tan too long her skin will resemble a lizard's.

I haven't met any pit lizards, but you can spot them easily when you're in the pits yourself. They are sometimes draped with a sash and crown and given the opportunity to kiss the driver for the photo-op in victory lane after he wins the race.

Mind you, I wouldn't want to *be* a pit lizard, but being non-tall, non-thin, and non-tan, it's hard not to look at oneself a little less approvingly after being confronted with this living image of feminine beauty time and time again. To have the body to wear Daisy Duke outfits would be a happy thing, I think, even though I would not wear them given a choice.

shris
:eat:

Wow, I had no idea. I can see how that could become disconcerting. Must be kind of funny to see them though. The whole four inch heels on a dirt track thing. . . You'd think they'd get all dirty standing around there too.

Hey shris - nice to meet you.

Great motivation and goals you have there! Just don't get too worked up comparing yourself to those "lizards" ! I'm sure your husband knows what a beautiful person you are and doesn't look twice at those vixens!

Anyway - good luck! I'm going to try those websites you mentioned. I've been doing fitday and not overally impressed with it.

:gl:

i feel really out of place (the biggest one) at the moment. i am now 179 (5 feet 2 inches) and trying to get down to 120. i was at 190 after i had my 3rd child. i have been struggling with my weight for years. i get down to 145 then up it goes due to pregnancies well i am solving this problem...NO MORE KIDS! my goal is to lose as much as possible but with a plan that i can stick with for the rest of my life. it is just so hard being a stay at home mom and trying to fit excersize in your schdule. but shall i say when i do get time my two year old makes a great bench press and leg lift.... :bb:

i feel really out of place (the biggest one) at the moment. i am now 179 (5 feet 2 inches) and trying to get down to 120. i was at 190 after i had my 3rd child. i have been struggling with my weight for years. i get down to 145 then up it goes due to pregnancies well i am solving this problem...NO MORE KIDS! my goal is to lose as much as possible but with a plan that i can stick with for the rest of my life. it is just so hard being a stay at home mom and trying to fit excersize in your schdule. but shall i say when i do get time my two year old makes a great bench press and leg lift.... :bb:


Sweetie - you aren't the biggest. I haven't posted my weight ;) I've lost 47 so far, but I'm still over 200 lbs. I wasn't sure about coming here, because I thought everyone was just trying to lose a few pounds, but there are some of us with more. Besides, the information and support here is great! My husband is on the board too and we love it. Alot of just weight loss boards don't come near the amount of information about muscle building etc. I could easily lose fat - but I want to get buff while I do it!

Welcome - and from your picture you don't look anywhere near 179! :d_tongue:

Hi All,
I just discovered this website. I have been on the BFL program for six weeks now and my goal is to reduce my bodyfat to about 15% it is at about 19% now. I've had decent progress so far I started with a 27 inch waist and now it's 25.5 inches. I am 5'4 and 115 pounds and I want to increase muscle but want to lose fat as well. I heard that it cannot be done together so I am trying to lose reduce my first and then add some muscle. I have a fast metabolism so losing fat will not be a problem but it's really difficult for me to put on muscle. I am in my thirties and my metabolism still hasn't slowed down.
I have six weeks to do this since I will be getting married in the Caribbean then.
I've always been active, and have worked out since college, played sports, ran track etc. I just want a six pack and all my fat is on top (bust, waist and a little pouch belly, which I hate). Wish me luck. :d_smile:

quite simply.... my goal is to feel comfortable in my own skin and in a bikini :) i also want to develop muscle tone

Well - I did it! I hit 50 lbs lost! (Took me over 6 weeks to lose 3 lbs - but really, since I gained 7 lbs at the end of March, I've lost 10 lbs in 5 weeks.)


I've been sticking to my plan perfectly for 3 weeks now, with 2 cheat meals. I upped my cardio to 60 minutes. I eat about 1400 calories a day. Lean Protein, Whole Grains (Oats, Brown Rice), Veggies and Low-sugar Fruits. 150 oz of water and Cardio 5-6 days a week. I only do 2 day a week body sculpting with light hand weights - but for now it seems to be working. I'm focused on fat burning right now!

Hi, i just joined today i am from Scotland, 21, i used to be a gymaholic because of my passion for kickboxing, being caught up with university, 5 year old son and 2 jobs i haven't been much in the last year, term ends this week, i have till October to play in the Gym etc and i am looking for some advice on realistic goals? i am 5ft8in, 145lbs. Quite like trying out diets, like martial arts, cross trainer, treadmill that sort of thing any ideas?????

So how 'bout you, ladies? What are your goals and why are you here?


I wanna get ripped, but not too bulky. I wanna look kinda like Madonna Grimes...very slim, but muscular and defined.

I too want to feel comfortable in my own skin. I am 5'2", 110 lbs. I have a very small frame and more body fat than I want. I am currently between 19 - 21% bodyfat. I would like to eventually get down to 15% or another number I would be able to maintain. I have been lurking on this site for quite a while, but everyone is so supportive and knowledgable. I hope to become part of your community. :d_biggrin

Hello Everyone! I have quite a bit to lose :o . I'm 24 years old with an almost 9 month old baby and have not lost any of the weight that i gained through pregnancy, a woping 60 lbs. I'm only 5 feet tall and weight 195 lbs and i feel awful! I have a pretty muscular build (when i'm leaner) so i would like to be 130-135 (i look really thin at that weight). Right now I'm trying to start a steady exercise routine, I have Tae Bo videos and try to make it to the local gym (free one on military post). I'm trying my best to eat healthy but i feel hungry all the time! And my big problem is eating late at night :o . I eat breakfast in the morning, but i just always get so hungry at night!!! I'm very depressed about this excess weight i feel hideous :d_frown: !! Hopefully this site will keep me motivated and help me reach my goal.

P.S. Does anyone know any remedies or supplements that help curb appetite and give more energy? Thank you :D .

Hi Girls,

I'm quite new to the board and it's very inspiring reading about all your stories and goal. All of you seems to be a very supportive to each others.

Introducing my self and my goal, well 42 year's of age, start January at 160 pounds for 5'6" and I'm actually at 130.5 pounds. I drop 29 pounds in about 6 months with time and patience and discipline. My goal is still be lean with muscle tone and being able to see my abs all times if not, well try to keep a flat stomach and keep going for building a new me and be able at 75 year's of age able to said: I'm in great shape for my ages :D I'm trying to build for my futur's for better living.

P.S. Does anyone know any remedies or supplements that help curb appetite and give more energy? Thank you :D .


Aries don't get to frustrated, I was in the same situation a few years ago. And I have lost most of my weight in the last 6 months from both my boys. Try to snack throughout the day on health foods when ever you feed your baby and talk to your doctor but I continued to take prenatal vitamins for at least a year after I had mine and now I take a multi-vitamin, I can tell if I skip a dose. Good Luck :gl:

My goal http://www.gifseclips.hpg.ig.com.br/brad%20pitt/28624_maior.jpg

I don't want to be super ripped or have BULGING abs, Brad is my ideal body type, ripped but still possessing a soft body for aniston to cuddle with, not a stiff rock. I'm getting there, after only 1 month of freeweights and a weekly routine of moderate jogging with some intervals, I've never looked better in my life. My arms are still a little small and my abs aren't popping out yet :p BUT I can see noticeable progress. My initial goal was to lower my RHR to 60 and below but I think that will be an inherent extra advantage via my workout routine.

:o :o :o FEMALE FORUM :o :o :o : :whistle:

It's been great for me reading this site. Both inspiring and informative.

I'm 37, 5'8" and 192lbs. My goal is to not continue living in a body that makes me want to hide. I was active in sports thruout my teens & 20's, and have slowly let myself go in my 30's. It's one of those things where I knew I was gaining weight, but kept "fooling" myself into thinking, "It's not that much." And the first time I bought that one size larger I "fooled" myself into thinking, "It's just one size. I can get back down." (I call it The Crawl.) You know when you gain 7-10 lbs in a year. And because it happened over an extended period of time, you manage to rationalize. But when you do that 4, or 5 years in a row then catch a glimpse of yourself in a mirror in a store, you're shocked and stunned and mortified and ashamed. And you know that you've been wearing sweatpants or roomy skirts as often as possible. And you know that you've been wrapping a sweatshirt or jacket around your waist and you initially told yourself it was to discourage guys from making comments about your bangin' booty, but deep down if you told the truth it would be b/c the bangin' booty has turned into a junk-in-the-trunk of the worst kind. And b/c you're feeling discouraged and dismayed, you don't wise up right away and start exercising and eating healthily--ohh noo. You start eating more crap and laying on the couch and sleeping far too much. But the wising up has begun, my friends. And I'm so grateful for this site for its support, feedback, and encouragement. Whew!

p.s. I'm not too computer-savvy so I may have ?'s from time to time. e.g., how do I get the smilies to work?