Movers and Shakers - March 9 - 15 [Archive]

Mal Lady

03-10-2008, 05:34 PM

Wow! Where is everyone!?!:eek:

I hope they are all out movin' & Shakin'!:D

I finally got to the gym today. I did my usual mile on the treadmill and the 12 machines. The pool whirlpool time was cut short. But, at least I did get some time in.

My ticker moved today another .4 lbs. I just can't believe the rate at which I'm dropping my pounds. I almost hate getting on the scale. I'm afraid it could all be a dream and when I wake up the pounds will all be back!:eek: I have managed 4 pounds in 12 days. I have really watched what I've been eating and I think the exercise 3 days a week just turns up the fat burning. Anyway, no complaints here! I will enjoy it while I can because I am sure there will be some plateaus coming my way!:rolleyes:

Shadow, I missed you over the weekend. It feels kind of slow and dead when you're not here! I can't even hear your whip cracking! I hope you are doing okay. I haven't heard much from you a quite a while. You must be really moving and shaking.:D I'll bet when Carol shows up you'll be front and center. She always seems to need a whuppin'!:p

Carol, I know you've been doing your best at the gym. You've been pretty constant on your reports. It almost seems like you are spending a lot of time trying to get your dh to keep up with you at the gym.;) He must need a little reminding now and then - to meet you there!

Parisienne, I am so sorry to hear you don't feel well. I hope it's not all that dreaded stuff that everyone is picking up. I hear it's nasty!:eek: I hope you get feeling better real soon!

Ammy, I'm glad to know you are still out there and kicking! I was hoping that you'd be back here to tell us of your accomplishments. Good for you on making it back here to report!

Well, I got to get going on supper. I will check back later to see if there are any more reports.

Sharon

Shadow

03-10-2008, 05:35 PM

Sharon - We posted simultaneously :cool:! You are so sweet to miss me while I'm gone :). Believe me, I wish I could be here too. But then again, this way I actually have something to look forward to on Monday when I get to "see" you all again :nod:. My workouts are right on track - as always :p - so no worries there ;). As for that Carol, I've had to keep my eye on her for years now :eek:. Hmmm - think this chatting will get her to finally check in today :tongue:????

Mal Lady

03-10-2008, 05:45 PM

Sharon - We posted simultaneously! You are so sweet to miss me while I'm gone :). Believe me, I wish I could be here too. But then again, this way I actually have something to look forward to on Monday when I get to "see" you all again :nod:. My workouts are right on track - as always :p - so no worries there ;)..

Shadow, I am sooo happy to see you! Isn't funny that we posted at the same time! Just means great minds .... Yada Yada Yada whatever that saying is!:eek::D

I am glad to hear that your workouts are right on track! That is GREAT!:cool: I am always excited every morning to see what everyone is doing. The first thing I do when I hit the kitchen in the morning is turn on the computer. This is the first website I go to. I love to read all the different problems and answers and comments that everyone has. I sure like it when I can help a "newbie" also. It feels so good!:)

Well, it was nice to get to "see" you tonight too! I hope you have a wonderful week.

Sharon

gitfiddle

03-10-2008, 08:02 PM

As for that Carol, I've had to keep my eye on her for years now :eek:. Hmmm - think this chatting will get her to finally check in today :tongue:????
:eek: Hey, I resemble that remark! :rolleyes: Actually, I just got back from the gym. :nod: I chatted with my chiro today on whether the leg extensions and flexions would irritate my kneecap and got the go-ahead to use them. He also said the leg press was very good for the legs in general.

Oh, and I had to take the crock pot down from the shelf today. It's at the absolute end of my reach and always a bit of a juggling act. Today it was like bringing down a sofa pillow. Amazing!

Tresses

03-10-2008, 08:49 PM

I didn't get a workout in today. :o I did manage to spend 90 minutes grocery shopping tonight, though. According to TDP, that's 375 calories burned. :lol: I don't really believe that, but at least I got some movement in today, FWIW. :rolleyes:

Claudette

03-11-2008, 07:45 AM

Hi, y'all,

Shadow, you'd be proud!

This am, by 6.00am, I was at my gym on the hospital campus. The cost is low, $10.00/month, no body is there in the am that early, so it is a great time to work out.

I did 30 minutes of free weights, machines, 15 minutes of Callenctics for my waist/buttocks/thighs. Whew, I am sore, can tell I have been "off my feed" for awhile. :jawDrop:

My 3 other "biggest loser" team mates are very motivating, we do encourage each other. They aren't on PP, but different diet plans.

Well, back to work....

Have a great day .

Claudette

Shadow

03-11-2008, 09:33 AM

Claudette - I am beyond proud of you :D!!!!

Carol - Awesome :thumbsup:!!!! Isn't it great when we see the everyday rewards of our efforts :)?

Tresses - Well, groceries are important too ;). Hopefully today will be a better day to get that workout in.

Sharon - Things in my life are a wreck, actually, but at least my exercise is on track :p. But I am pretty boring when it comes to that :rolleyes:. However to add some "spice" to my report, I can tell you that this month I'm doing a pyramid weight rotation as opposed to the strength rotation I did last month. Now does that make your day, or what :lol:????

Mal Lady

03-11-2008, 10:44 AM

Shadow, I am sorry to hear that your life is topsy turvy right now. I hope that your workout helps you get the strength to work through it and rejuvenates you. I know my workout helps get me through the agravation that life throws at me. I hope things get better for you real soon. I have never heard of the pyramid rotation? :oIs that like starting with heavy weights and working to lighter ones?:confused: Sorry, for not knowing, I must be too new to all this!:eek:

Hey - Carol and Claudette - those are some great reports! Tressses - I would believe that caloric count. It takes a lot of energy to bend and stretch and pushing that heavy cart all over the place. Plus, if your store is like mine - it is a mammoth store. I walk over an hour just getting the stuff I need - checking carb count and studying labels - price checking. I am totally exhausted when I get done. It is a verrrry good workout!

Well, I won't move my ticker today. I think that I am going to be in the process of stabilizing all of the weight loss and hold at 155 for a while. I feel that after a large loss it is really good to hold that weight for awhile (at least 3-5 days). That way, you don't bounce all over the scales putting on and taking off those pounds back and forth and then you never really feel they are gone for good. Really, that is probably what a plateau is good for. Stabilizing the weight you took off, making your body and your brain adjust to your new size and preparing it to feel good about moving on (that you are not starving yourself - just making good adjustments in your intake). I rationalize like this and then plateaus are not devastating to me - just a temporary hold to realign my body and for it to say it okay to move on. I believe it has something to do with a part of your body called the hypothalamus. It's been a long time since I've reviewed all that stuff that my memory isn't that sharp on it any more. Anyway, it's a good thing to remember if you ever get stuck for awhile and don't want to "let it get you down."

Well, I guess I've blabbed on enought here. I should move on and check out what other people have to say today.

I hope everyone of you have a wonderful day!

BBBBYYYYYYEEEE SSSSHAAADDDOOWWWWWWW!:D:tongue::evil::razz::exclam ation:
I had to use up my icon allowance before I go. (Heeeee Heee Heeee!)

gitfiddle

03-11-2008, 11:06 AM

I had to use up my icon allowance before I go. (Heeeee Heee Heeee!)
:rolleyes:;):D Missy doesn't know she's got competition yet, does she?

Karole

03-11-2008, 11:57 AM

Hi all, just reporting in for yesterday. I got called in to sub for Head Start and got off to a good start as I did 10 min. on the glider before I left for work. Then it went downhill all the way. I was setting out the chairs for the kids and my back went out. So I didn't do any more work outs for the day and as soon as I got home I took a muscle relaxer and got on my heating pad. It made me sleepy and I slept most of the evening away .
Good news tho, my back is much, much better today. I have never ever had my back get better this fast. Maybe prior work outs have helped this ???? I really don't know, but I am able to walk completely upright and it only twinges if I lift my leg to high. I am going to take it easy today and see how it goes tomorrow. I just hate this--when I was on a good roll , I have to stop and lose my momentum.:mad::tear::tear::tear::mad:

Ammy

03-11-2008, 12:28 PM

My abs are still pretty sore from yesterday so I lowered the ab machine by 20lbs, and my hip was hurting so I skipped most of the abductor but got in the rest of my resistance. Specifics below.

Sunday: nothing
Monday: 30 min Pilates
Tuesday: resistance, 10min 100rmp on upright bike
Wednesday:
Thursday:
Friday:
Saturday:

hip abductor: 8x100x1
hip adductor: 8x100x3
leg press: 8x150x3
seated bench press: 8x70x3
seated row: 8x50x3
ab crunch: 8x70x3

Parisienne

03-11-2008, 12:43 PM

Hey all,

Thank you so much for your concern. I have nothing to report on: I simply don't feel that great:(. Nothing special, nothing serious, though. I have mainly a headache and rhinitis but also some nausea, loss of appetite and abdominal cramps. From my symptoms, I think that I've probably caught a mild form of cold (and cross my fingers it is not some gastroenteritis again). So definitely there will be no sport today. Anyway, I took some medication and I feel a bit better.
The worst of it is that we have a visitor this evening. He stays only a couple of days in France so there is no way to put him off. DH called a caterer and it should be painless and smooth (but probably a bit too much carb-loaded). Anyway, I don’t think I’m going to eat anything.
Last but not least, my blood test is really great. I will post about it later in the right thread (don’t want to bother you too much:lol::lol:). OK, I’m sure it only thanks to Shadow and all of you from Movers & Shakers. Thank you very much!

I’ll be back.;);)

Mal Lady

03-11-2008, 12:51 PM

Ammy - Is that your picture in the Avatar! Do I actually have a face to put with the name! Cool!

Sharon

Mal Lady

03-11-2008, 12:53 PM

Parisienne - I hope you aren't getting too sick also. Maybe just a small bump in the road and then - moving on!

Sharon

Ammy

03-11-2008, 01:44 PM

Ammy - Is that your picture in the Avatar! Do I actually have a face to put with the name! Cool!

That be me with my goofy grin!!!

Shadow

03-11-2008, 02:20 PM

Amy - We love the "goofy" grin :thumbsup:! Nice to "see" you again :)!

Sharon - My workout time is the only bit of sanity I have these days (and my only "me" time) so I relish every minute, even if I am doing shorter workouts until things calm down. If nothing else, it helps to get the frustration out ;). As for pyramiding, it can be done several ways and you were right that you can start up and then go down. The way I'm doing it this month is I do 12 reps with my lightest weight, go immediately to 10 reps at my middle weight, go to 8 reps at my heaviest, go back to my mid weights for 10 reps and then end with 12 reps at my lightest weight. Rather than building strength, it is more of an endurance workout. Now have I confused you???? But I am honored you used up all your icons on me, lol!

Karole - I am so sorry about the back problems, but am very thankful you're almost better already! Don't forget to get in some gentle stretching to help ease the tightness :). And yes - I do believe it's the workouts you're getting in that strengthened the muscles and made the incident shorter lasting than usual, IMHO.

Amy - You're doing abs without a break in between? Looks like a good report you have there :nod:!

Adina - You NEVER bother us, silly girl :lol:! I am so happy to hear the blood test went well! I hope you feel better soon and things go well this evening!

Karole

03-11-2008, 05:20 PM

I did get out in this glorious sunshine and walk some today. Hopefully it will help loosen things up too. I'll take your advice about the stretching Shadow, it is bound to help.

I'll keep on checking in tho as I don't want this to derail me completly-- just maybe a tiny sidetrack or something.

Shadow

03-11-2008, 05:41 PM

Karole - Believe me, I would hunt you down if you even thought of allowing yourself to get derailed :evil:! So yes, please stick close, so I don't have to chase after you since I despise running :tongue:!

gitfiddle

03-11-2008, 06:53 PM

:rolleyes:I though you could just "reach out and touch someone" with that bullwhip!;)

I spent an hour at the gym this afternoon and got in a very good workout. Shadow, I can't believe I went a whole year without! Anyway, I started the leg press and resumed the extension and flexion machines on top of the upper body stuff. I feel buff (I don't LOOK any different, mind you, but I can feel the muscles under the bean bags)!

I am getting some cardio now. I get my heart rate up to 120 or so for about ten minutes on the stationary bike.

Tresses

03-11-2008, 10:07 PM

Back on track. 10 minutes warm up on the bike; 40 minutes upper body resistance. :)

Parisienne

03-12-2008, 07:36 AM

Adina - You NEVER bother us, silly girl :lol:! I am so happy to hear the blood test went well! I hope you feel better soon and things go well this evening!

I will not forget it, Shadow :D!
My DH was a great host yesterday evening, I was only surprised it has taken so many years to be discovered :lol:!!
I feel much better today, my yesterday all day long lie-in worked well.

This morning, wanting to be back among those alive, I did Leslie Samson's Upper Body workout. Thought it could not be a great thing, after warm up doing some arms movements while seated. Heaven knows I was wrong... I've never sweated so much in all my life and felt so weak! Obviously there is not everything OK with my head to have made this assumption. Anyway, I feel better now and hope to report on some new workout tomorrow.

Have a great workout, today!

Karole

03-12-2008, 08:55 AM

Glad you are better today, Adina. Take care not to over do and set yourself back.

I think I will plan a walk for today as my exercise. My back is not up to anything else yet, but a nice walk again will be just the ticket. Will check back later.

Mal Lady

03-12-2008, 09:27 AM

Hi All!

Gosh, everyone is up and at 'em but me! I had an awful night last night. Went to a meeting loaded for bear (I'm sec. of association). Then, thank goodness - nothing happened of importance. But, I just couldn't get my mind to shut down. I slipped a little on meals (Had one!) Snacked on outrageous stuff! :eek::eek: Then, no sleep until after 4:00 a.m. So, today, I got on the scale still 155!:cool: Thank goodness! So, I am tired. I will go to gym but, can only handle pool exercises.:( But, something is better than nothing.:o Shadow, please take it easy on the whip!;):exclamation:

I am glad to see everyone is else on track! Those are good reports! At least the sun is shining and the day looks so pretty.:D

See all later!

Sharon

gitfiddle

03-12-2008, 10:11 AM

Sharon, I hate nights like that! :( Take it easy on yourself today.

Adina, be careful! You don't want a relapse. ;)

Karole, you must be having some nice weather! We're starting to get glimmers, but we're still walking in the street. :rolleyes:

I had a rough night myself last night, waking up at 4 and not going back to sleep until about 30 min before the alarm went off. :p Tonight, bedtime will be at ten! I might have worked a little too hard yesterday in the gym.

Shadow

03-12-2008, 10:18 AM

I though you could just "reach out and touch someone" with that bullwhip!;)
I can - but if I have to track her down, I can get her even better than I could than long distance :p :lol:!

I spent an hour at the gym this afternoon and got in a very good workout. Shadow, I can't believe I went a whole year without!
Me neither :eek:! See - you should've listened to me ;).

I feel buff (I don't LOOK any different, mind you, but I can feel the muscles under the bean bags)!
:lol:! You have to start somewhere and just like with our health, it begins on the inside :).

I am getting some cardio now. I get my heart rate up to 120 or so for about ten minutes on the stationary bike.
:D!

Shadow

03-12-2008, 10:23 AM

Tresses - Way to go on that workout :D!

Adina - I am glad you are doing better today. But please do take it easy until you're totally back to "normal" (the term being used loosely, you know :lol: ). Maybe all that sweating got rid of the toxins in your body and you'll be completely well now :).

Sharon - Just do what you can today :nod:. If you're too tired, you're more likely to injure yourself and we can't have that :eek:!

Karole - I think a walk would be the perfect thing to do today!

Mal Lady

03-12-2008, 12:56 PM

Hi All!

I did a great workout in the pool - a whole hour. It felt so much better doing that today than the machines! Thanks everyone for your concern and advice! It feels ssssooooo good to have nice friends like you!:cool::) Today, I feel like deep dish quiche pizza! I saw so many ads for pizza last night that it hit me like a rock!:eek: Ouch! I am so thankful for the recipe. It sure takes away those cravings. I wish you could all smell the onions carmelizing in butter and evvo. It smells heavenly.:exclamation:

Yes Carol - I really hate those nights when I can't get to sleep! I am just not good for much the next day!:( That's why I think I'll try to get some cooking in today and help cover some meals for the rest of the week.

Thanks for sparing me the whip today!;):p I appreciate it!:o

I hope you all have a wonderful day!

Sharon

Karole

03-12-2008, 04:51 PM

:DJust got back from a 25 min. walk in the 78 degree weather we are having today, with loads of bright sunshine !! It was great and no problem at all for the back.

Carol, I am sending you some of this nice stuff so you can get out and walk in the sunshine too !!

I also went horseback riding for two hours with dh as we really have to get our horses in shape for Aprils' trail ride. It isn't very far off now and they need the work out. They are soft and lazy after the winter off.

Don't think its crazy for me to ride as my back has gone out on me many times and it never, ever has hurt my back to ride. I actually think the motion of the horses walk is sort of like a stretching or massage feeling. (We have gaited horses so we don't ever trot them which would not feel too good.)

Anyway, I did get my exercise and my extra in after all. So tuck the whip away , far, far away Shadow.:D:D (I know you were gonna be easy on me anyway, so just joking)

Still just so thrilled to have my back doing so well so quickly. This exercise pays off in more ways than one!!

Claudette

03-12-2008, 04:59 PM

No exercise today for me. Recovering from a stomach bug, stomach has just now calmed down. Maybe a few toning exercises this pm if I feel like it.

Will try to make the gym tomarrow.

Shadow

03-12-2008, 05:34 PM

Claudette - Just focus on getting better :)!

Karole - Oh wow - I wish I could've taken that walk with you! But you know what they say.... "Spare the rod and spoil the child." :lol: ;)!

Sharon - This is definitely an awesome group we have here :D!

gitfiddle

03-12-2008, 08:59 PM

I'll take that sunshine, Karole! You must be a more graceful rider than I am, but then yours are Walkers, aren't they?

Since my gym time yesterday left me with a whole body full of DOMS today, I took it easy today and cut back on the weights. I wear comfortable yoga pants and t-shirts, but I think I'm going to have to spiff up a little so I don't look like such a schlepp.

Claudette, feel better!

Sharon, the pool sounds wonderful! Outside in the sunshine, I presume?

Shadow, we're just trying to make you happy! ;)

Karole

03-12-2008, 09:16 PM

Carol, our horses are actually Missouri Foxtrotters (don't let the trotters in the name fool you--they really just glide) But, Foxtrotters do have a lot of Walking horse bred into them so very similiar.

Sure wish I had a real gym close by like you do. It
sounds like you get a great workout. I could join the youth center in the next town 12 miles over, but I wonder, with the price of gas , would I actually drive there to do it often enough to warrent the monthly fee. Wish my dh would join it , then maybe we would be more apt to go. hmmm I might have to start working on him.

gitfiddle

03-12-2008, 09:22 PM

Karole, I knew they weren't Tennessee Walkers, but I didn't remember the Foxtrotter part. (boy, my spell-check didn't like that!)

We have a YMCA in the heart of town (about three miles away) but I can't get there conveniently, the parking lot is 40 acres and it's expensive. This new little gym has few amenities, is right on my path home, and affordable. The best thing that's happened to my body in a long time!

Tresses

03-12-2008, 09:45 PM

All you gym folks...::shakes head in wonder::...I'm more of a "let me hide in my basement where no one can watch me workout" kind of person. :p There, and my livingroom.

So, that's what I did tonight. 15 minutes on the bike; 25 minutes lower body resistance. :)

Parisienne

03-13-2008, 07:48 AM

Hello everybody,

First of all thank you so much for your concern and advice. I feel much better today, still with running nose, but no sign of stomach problems anymore:):)!

Claudette, I feel for you. (Last November I had a really bad gastroenteritis so I know it could be really painful.) I hope that you will feel better, too.

Tresses, I belong to your group :lol:. No basement here but I use our living-room a lot. I go out with my DH for a brisk walking, though. Otherwise, I don't even like tapes when there is anybody else than "my" coach!;)

Tuesday - LS upper body free weights (30 min)
Wednesday - 10 Minute Solution: abs & buns + 5 min stationary bike

My problem with abs is that I have always a stiff neck during and after the workout. No matter how hard I try, I simply cannot relax enough. This is perhaps a reason I don't do abs workout as often as I should...

OK. And just for an info: I posted my blood test results under "Amazing Stories" Forum. Plus - as an almost integral part of my posts:rolleyes: - some usual complaints about not losing for months...

Have a great afternoon and see you later!

Karole

03-13-2008, 08:31 AM

[quote=Shadow;60988]
Karole - Oh wow - I wish I could've taken that walk with you!

Huh, you mean that wasn't you yesterday following me around?? :paranoid::paranoid:I could just have sworn I caught a glimpse of a Shadow when I glanced behind me.:D

Ammy

03-13-2008, 08:32 AM

Shadow

03-13-2008, 09:26 AM

Shadow, we're just trying to make you happy! ;)
Well, you are all doing a mighty fine job :D!!!! It is always such a pleasure to come here and visit and see what everyone is up to :nod:!

Shadow

03-13-2008, 09:31 AM

Karole - Shoot, you caught me :lol:!

Adina - Until you get the abs stronger, you will use your neck muscles more :). Just don't overdo it and focus as hard as you can on using the abs and not the neck - it will come in time. It may also help if you don't actually put your hands behind your head but just put your fingertips on each side of your neck. That way you're at least not pushing on the neck :). Sometimes envisioning the muscles you want to work help you to better perform the exercise.

Tresses - Good workout! I'm not a gym kinda gal either - unless I could have the whole thing to myself :tongue:. But you can't beat the convenience of not having to travel to get to your workout! Cuts down on excuses, too ;).

Amy - That would definitely count :nod:!!!

gitfiddle

03-13-2008, 10:12 AM

I'm more of a "let me hide in my basement where no one can watch me workout" kind of person. :p

I don't have room in my tiny house for even an exercise bike, but I'm more energized at the gym anyway. I'm pretty social. Left alone to my own recognisance, I have a tendency to slack off. (I KNOW you know that, Shadow! :p )

Parisienne

03-13-2008, 10:21 AM

Thank you Shadow for your constant assistance, I need it badly:D!

Another set of (silly) questions: how often should I do abs workout to get the best results: every day, every other day..

Karole

03-13-2008, 10:36 AM

I'm with you Carol, I do much better if someone is standing over me with a whip (or wet noodle at the very least.)

I did my dvd for 40 min. today and no problems. It is the one for people over 50, and on the exercises that I thought might hurt my back I did it the way the instructor said to do it so it wouldn't hurt the back. They are pretty good about that actually.

Sooo, I have my 30 min. in, plus my extra and still am looking forward to my line dancing session this evening !!

Karole

03-13-2008, 10:38 AM

Adina, I am like you with the abs and neck problem. I need to follow Shadows suggestion for sure as my neck and shoulders bother me for some time after I do a lot of ab work.

Mal Lady

03-13-2008, 11:49 AM

Wow! Everyone is doing so much exercise! I just got to get up the ambition to put in my tape today! I found on cable - Lselie Sansone doing about 30 minutes of Walk at home. I can actually down load it for $1.99 at www.exercisetv.tv (http://www.exercisetv.tv) I have a code to put in to get a 15% discount on anything there. It is quite an incentive. I believe there was another program that you download so many for $11.99. I probably will check it out and see what it is all about.

I know that Shadow is out there lurking behind a doorway waiting to see what I do!:paranoid::evil::D DH has been asking if I am going to do the tape he searched for???:rolleyes: So, that is a big incentive within itself.

Carol - It would be nice if the pool and whirlpool were outside but, it's all inside.

Well, I'm running really late today so, I'll be back later!:paranoid:

Sharon

Ammy

03-13-2008, 11:54 AM

My problem with abs is that I have always a stiff neck during and after the workout. No matter how hard I try, I simply cannot relax enough. This is perhaps a reason I don't do abs workout as often as I should...

I often put my head down and rest my neck while working my abs.
Take breaks, rest your neck. It's not worth it to work your abs, but hurt your neck!

Shadow

03-13-2008, 05:52 PM

Adina and Karole - As Amy said, never hesitate to rest if it's bothering you :). In the beginning, I never did a double crunch. If we were working lowers, I always kept my head down. Then as I got stronger I started doing some here and there. Eventually, just like any other muscle, it will get stronger. The other thing you can do is strengthen your core with some added plank work. Then as your core gets stronger, the ab work will be easier. But I am short on time here so tomorrow we will have a lesson in Planks 101 ;).

Adina - Like any other muscles, it is best to give it 24 - 48 hours rest between exercise. Occasionally it is not a bad thing to work a muscle on consecutive days. But when training heavy - or beginning training - you should always take a day rest between :).

Carol - I would say you shocked me, but .... :lol:! Although I will definitely give you credit for dancing in your kitchen when you're by yourself!!!!

Sharon - Yes, indeed - I am definitely keeping an eye on you :tongue:!

Mal Lady

03-13-2008, 05:59 PM

Hey Shadow!

You got reason to keep and eye on me!:jawDrop: I tried one of the videos today and only got 9 minutes in!:eek: I am not used to it! :o I am going to copy my old dvd and get back to that one and work up to a harder one later:rolleyes:! I thought by doing the treadmill these last few weeks my cardio-vascular would have been better - but, it's not!:eek: I really need to improve so, I will be doing it a couple times a week:exclamation:

Tomorrow, I hope to be full force at the gum.:D So, you can retract that whip - until tomorrow!:p

Have a nice evening!
Sharon

Parisienne

03-13-2008, 06:46 PM

Thank you for your advice, Amy and Shadow!
I've just come back from my Thursday evening class (yes, it is well after midnight:eek:) so I can thank you only now.

I definitely don't want to hurt my neck but I have an annoying tendency to skip on abs. I will try to improve myself:D.

Another question: is there any (common or other;)) sense to buy one of those ab trainers with head/neck rest? Not that I believe in all these commercials - just wonder if any of you have any opinion on this gadget.

See you tomorrow!

gitfiddle

03-13-2008, 07:50 PM

Well, I got in 45 minutes at the gym, but I left the leg stuff alone (except for the bike). My knees ached all night last night.

Tomorrow's going to be a rest day because my band has a gig at a local function right after work. I should be transposing music instead of visiting here, in fact! :o

Saturday, we'll be out of town all day and Sunday has a big chunk taken right out of the middle of the day. It's a long shot, but I'll try for evenings.

Yah, shure, I shocked you! ;) :D :rolleyes: It's been a while since I tried dancing in the kitchen... I wonder if I could... Hmmmmmm...

Karole

03-13-2008, 07:59 PM

I'm glad you said that about Plank 101 lessons Shadow because I was going to have to ask you how to do a plank or what it even means. I am clueless to resistance workouts as you can tell.

I did go to my hour long line dancing lessons and it was great, but I sure have a stiff upper back now. I didn't feel like I was doing that much movement in the back, but who knows.

Will be checking in tomorrow. Take care all.

Shadow

03-14-2008, 09:35 AM

Okay, Karole - I will be back with the plank info shortly :). Believe me, we're ALL new at it at some time or another ;).

Adina - IMHO, no :). A lot of them use the neck - and most simply use momentum. I'm not saying there's not ANY good ones out there - but honestly, I'd use the money to buy something you'd actuall use (and enjoy) a whole lot more ;).

Sharon - Hey, at least you tried it :thumbsup:! One day you'll pull it out and surprise yourself with it :D! So whip retracted....for now.....

Carol - I hope you have a marvelous weekend!!! And you certainly shouldn't work your legs every day anyway so I'm sure they were more than ready for a break :nod:.

Ammy

03-14-2008, 09:38 AM

Sunday: nothing
Monday: 30 min Pilates
Tuesday: resistance, 10min 100rmp on upright bike
Wednesday: 1hr walk with 2 untrained irish wolfhounds (counting this as cardio and resistance!!)
Thursday: nothing (anniversary)
Friday: nothing (traveling to WI)
Saturday:

I brought two workout dvd's to WI with me...I hope to do them both while there.

Shadow

03-14-2008, 09:47 AM

Amy - I hope you have a wonderful trip :)! And getting those workouts in would be a great bonus ;).

Ammy

03-14-2008, 09:50 AM

AND a great stress reliever...
MIL can be a very stress inducing person :rolleyes:

Shadow

03-14-2008, 10:06 AM

Karole - I will show you a couple of plank positions, but keep in mind, these are pretty advanced. To begin practicing planks, get on your hands and knees. Place your elbows on the floor (carpeting or a mat are pretty necessary here) and keep your ab/back area held tight. Hold for as long as you can. Then you can progress and either keep your lower body in that position but raise the front of your body until your arms are extended and you're resting on your hands or stay on your elbows and raise to your toes.

Depending on someone's build, arm strength, etc, some planks are not comfortable but others are aren't. And I actually find some of the "advanced" versions easier :rolleyes:.

Anyway, here are a couple of pictures and I hope this makes sense because for the first time in months this place is a zoo and I'm finding it hard to focus on this - not to mention it's take me almost an hour to get this far :eek:.

Here is a picture of a full plank (http://www.cathe.com/images/Poer_Hour_Pushups.jpg) which, if held long enough, will definitely burn the upper body ;). (I know the picture is titled "pushups" but ... anyway, look at the woman in front of the class). And this is a modified full plank (http://www.cathe.com/images/Cormax-236.jpg).

If those are too easy, you can always do supine planks (http://www.cathe.com/images/Slow_and_Heavy_Series/14.jpg) which are a whole different challenge :D!

NOTE OF CAUTION: Never drop OR raise your hips to keep the position. That does more harm than good! Only maintain a plank as long as you can stay in perfect alignment. No swaybacks, no bridges, no extortions of any kind ;). Of course, that goes for ALL resistance moves, not just planks :).

Shadow

03-14-2008, 10:07 AM

AND a great stress reliever...
MIL can be a very stress inducing person :rolleyes:
I know just what you mean, Amy :D!

Parisienne

03-14-2008, 10:35 AM

Adina - IMHO, no :). A lot of them use the neck - and most simply use momentum. I'm not saying there's not ANY good ones out there - but honestly, I'd use the money to buy something you'd actuall use (and enjoy) a whole lot more ;).

Thank you, Shadow. Your HO is very important to me:lol::D! This morning I was quite seduced by Weider AB Crunch trainer - I hoped it could be also useful for my DH, but I suppose you are right about throwing this money somewhere else!
I have to go now but before I will report on very tiny workout:

Friday - 5 min stationary bike + 10 minute solution thighs
Saturday - off

I see you back on Sunday (Saturday evening, perhaps?) and have a great weekend.

Mal Lady

03-14-2008, 11:07 AM

Hi All!

I am sooooooooo late this morning! I feel a little queazy in the stomach this morning but, I will go to the gym today! Just waiting for dh to get out of the shower. (He doesn't like to be in shower ( usually a half hour long) while I'm gone in case something happens to me. (Reallllly over protective!) !!!!:eek: This week I have felt so tired - I just am having a hard time getting my head on straight! I am not eating right! I am not sleeping right! I just feel out of sorts! Maybe it's spring fever or the blahhhhhhhhhhs!!!!!!!:crybaby::o:evil:!!!!! I don't even think there is an icon here that covers my problem!

I look in the mirror and see this big apron of fat and skin around my lower belly and just feel like giving up!!!:crybaby: I'll never get rid of that sagging crap and I hate it! It is depressing! I am always such an up person and lately I just can't feel up! I'm losing weight but, it just doesn't feel like it's good enough! I'm going to the gym pretty regularly and it just does't feel like it's good enough! I didn't think that losing the small amount that I had to lose would affect my stomach area where it wouldn't retract like this! I was only 85 pounds over weight - not 185! I kept thinking that it couldn't happen to me - and it has! Also, in 1986 I had a breast reduction and had 5 lbs taken off! I went down to a small "C". Now, I've shrunk to barely a "B" and they look awful! I can't believe that I look like I do and I just hate it!!!!! DH has been so supportive - but, I feel like I'm 90 years old and look it!!!! :o He says that maybe someday I can get a tummy tuck - but, in the mean time - I have to live with this ugly stuff! I feel trapped!:crybaby: I think I need to get to my family physician and see if she can help me sort this all out! She is the same age as I am (born same month and year) and is sooooo supportive. It's time for my yearly checkup and I think that she needs to see my progress and help me sort all this out! :rolleyes: It's where I can go and talk freely face - to - face with someone who cares and is knowledgeable!

I am sorry to be such a downer today, but, I just needed to get this out of my system somewhere quick and I just chose you guys for an outlet!!!

Thanks for listening!

Sharon

Ammy

03-14-2008, 11:47 AM

Oh Sharon...I hear you!

I did have the 140lbs to lose, but when you described the "apron"...I hear you.
When I lost the 120 I was SO embarrassed about my body...the skin that would hang was SO...horrible...I had to tuck it into clothing...and I still had to buy plus size clothing cause of the stupid skin!!!

BUT, I lost the weight and KEPT if off. I waited 5 years but I did CHOP off my "apron". NOW I am SO HAPPY I stuck with it and did what needed to be done! I'm also glad I "suffered" through the saggy skin cause I'm reminded OFTEN of why I stay on plan!! And I love my new "surgically enhanced" body!!

Stick with us...be patient. The weight didn't go on in a day, it won't come off in a day...I know, not what you wanted to hear, but it is true. We'll be here with you!!!
All of us in our various stages of PP!!!

Tresses

03-14-2008, 12:04 PM

Oooooh, sagging body parts. When I lost over 30lbs the first time on PP, I didn't have the apron to deal with, but the boobage...it was sad. :( Pregnancy and nursing 3 babies isn't kind to a body to begin with. Lose a lot of fat and...well...deflated water balloons comes to mind. :o I remember thinking, "I'd better keep my husband healthy because I'll need to have surgery if I ever have to date again!" :lol: And the tummy was saggy, even though it was flat; just not enough for an apron. Since I'm not planning on getting as thin this time (I really lost too much weight last time, I think), I'm hoping the boobs won't suffer as much.

OK, that was a little TMI, perhaps? :paranoid:

:lol:

I didn't get to log-in yesterday, but I got my workout in:
12 minutes on the bike
40 minutes upper body workout

Lower body planned for sometime this afternoon.

:)

Karole

03-14-2008, 05:21 PM

Okay, if I understand you, Shadow, the plank work will stregthen my core, thus help my back situation?

Also, when beginning I will be on my hands and knees and just tighten my belly and back muscles. ( I tried that and it was hard !! )

What I mean is, I don't do that other toe stuff til I can hold this first position quite a while? (Please say yes)

How long shall I shoot for (to hold the position) I did it several times, but not for very long each time. My back does feel kind of twingey right now so I will wait til day after tomorrow to try again.

Today I walked with a friend and enjoyed the outdoors for 35 min.

Tried (hopefully correctly) the planks. 5 min. total. That includes rest periods between the tries.

Shadow

03-14-2008, 05:44 PM

Adina - Even a tiny workout beats no workout :D!

Sharon - Don't give up! I know it's hard and I sag more than I want from years of yo-yo'ing too BUT the important thing now is that you are taking it off. As Amy said, over time it will get better - honest! I have finally come to accept my sags and stretch marks (from being obese, not pregnancy) as "battle scars" that simply remind me of how far I've come and how I never, EVER want to go back there. Hopefully you can make peace with it in some form, too :).

Tresses - Naw - you're among friends here :D! Way to go on that workout, too!

Karole - Yes :nod:. Planks work the entire core so that encompasses abs AND back - and depending on which position you use, it's pretty good for the arms, too! Yes - hands and knees will be the perfect beginning pose before moving to the toes!!!! Sorry, but I was running out of time earlier and I knew I'd forget alot :o. Anyway - every plank you hold is awesome, regardless of how advanced, and just add on 5 second or so increments until you feel strong enough to tackle another kind. But they are ALL good for you, regardless! I am so proud of you for trying it already :D!

Have a great weekend, all - I have to run. Will miss you all but you better watch 'cause I might sneak up on you this weekend ;) :evil:....

Mal Lady

03-14-2008, 07:55 PM

Gee, thanks Amy, Tresses and Shadow for all your words of encouragement!:) I appreciate you guys soooo much! I'm not giving up - I just feel a little deflated today! ( In more ways than one!):( I went to the gym and did the machines. Treadmill wasn't easy at all today. Only did .6 of mile. Pool exercises were cut short by old men throwing a basketball! They thought they were real cute splashing me!:mad: I could have beaned them with it - with the mood I was in!:peeved::angry::evil: Sometimes I wish I had a sister or close relative that I could talk to (woman) that I could confide in but, I don't.:o I am so happy that I have all of you to talk to or I would be soooo down! Thanks for sharing some of your life with me. It makes me feel like I'm not so alone!:)

Tonight, I fixed some alfredo sauce with Dreamfields spaghetti, fried some chicken tenders in olive oil, and put some fresh broccoli with colby/jack cheese in the microwave. It tasted so good! Dh wants this meal all the time now.

Doctor wants to test my Potassium levels - since upping them about a month ago. Maybe 60 meq. (4500 mg.) is way too much! I was only a little low when she added the last 20 meq. At least my iodine level has evened out. I need to spread the 60 meq. of potassium out during the day instead of taking them all at once, too.

Well, I guess I'll say goodbye for tonight!

Sharon

Mal Lady

03-14-2008, 08:01 PM

Peachy

03-15-2008, 06:10 PM

Tresses

03-15-2008, 10:55 PM

I'd like to join you girls on this thread. I am trying to exercise more. I am also dealing with sagging everywhere! Sometimes it is so discouraging to lose weight when you actually feel like you look worse naked!

Good thing we wear clothes then, eh? ;) Seriously, though, don't focus on how you look naked. I mean, how many people see you naked? :suspicious: Good foundations can do wonders. :thumbsup: You'll look slim, erm...uplifted, and be healthy. :nod: If you need surgery for excess skin, that's one thing; but, I think our culture has brainwashed us all to think that every woman, at every age, should be as tight and perky as an 18 year old model. Don't get me started.

Got the upper body workout in tonight. 10 minutes on the bike; 35 minutes upper body resistance. :)

gitfiddle

03-16-2008, 07:50 AM

everywhere![/B]
Peachy, I have to look at that as a sign of success. I have quite a wattle under my chin that I can't cover up with clothes. I simply think of it as my "trophy" for being a healthier person. :nod:

Parisienne

03-16-2008, 09:05 AM

I'd like to join you girls on this thread. I am trying to exercise more.
Welcome Peachy, I am so glad you have decided to join this thread! Shadow may think that I try to get some points by saying this ;) but I really mean it: it feels really great to get all those moves and shakes! I feel so much better that I cannot find the right words to encourage you (especially with my limited range of English). So please, do yourself a gift and be among us reporting on your workout everyday (or almost, don't forget to take a day off :D)!

Sunday - upper body free weights (30 min) + 10 Minute Solution Abs

Shadow, I did as you had told me (finger tipping my neck) and it was almost fine (at least much better than the other time), just during the last exercise I felt some stiffness in my neck. I will try to do 10 Min Solution Abs every other day.

Claudette

03-16-2008, 10:40 AM

Peachy,
Don't get discouraged! Better healthy and "sagging" than overweight and unhealthy. Don't focus on how you look naked.

I, too, look in the mirror and see "sagging" where there didn't use to be since I have been trying to loose the weight, but I can always wear great foundation garments. My DH has been so supportive, he says, "just keep working out, don't worry".
I was always on the thin side, untill pregnancy, then I lost 55 lbs afterward, but when menopause hit, gained at least 40 back.

I also feel, if I want later, I can call the Plastic surgeon guys and get an
"estimate".

I also, agree with Tresses, it is impossible to look like an 18 yr old (and why should we? ). We can be the best, look the best, be as healthy as we can at our age.

Exercise round up for the week:

Thursday: gym for weights, lower body, callenectics for waist/buns/thighs.
Friday: 2.75 mile walk, abd work
Saturday: Callenectics tape for waist, abd.

Ammy

03-16-2008, 06:59 PM

Karole

03-16-2008, 08:25 PM

Finally finished my last work out for the day. I divided it up quite a bit today, but I've done that before.

20 min. glider 10 min with weights for arms
extra was 10 min on the bike this evening

Shadow

03-17-2008, 09:58 AM

Peachy - So very happy to have you join us :D! But I'm warning you, now I will watch you, so you'd better be prepared ;)!

Adina - I am so glad it helped :D!!! Just work up to it slowly and the minute your neck bothers you, be sure to take at least a short break.

Carol - What a great way to look at it! But that's probably because that's the way I look at the flaws too :lol:!

Amy - What a good week :D!

Karole - Way to go :thumbsup:!

Claudette - As you well know from your profession, health is more important by far than a little sagging here and there ;).

Tesses - Boy do I agree with you! Of course, I'm sure *I* shouldn't get started either :tongue:!