12 Down

Last modified on April 29th, 2010

Given that summer is just around the corner (at least, I hope it is — it’s really hard to tell with this weather), I decided about 6 weeks ago to try and get in better shape. One of the things I wanted to do when I moved out to Chilliwack was to be a bit healthier. I’ve definitely done that in terms of what I eat, but not so much in terms of how much exercise I get in a typical week. Summer is usually better for me as I like hiking and playing tennis, so I’m sure it’ll increase.

When I got back from Hamilton at the start of March I decided to start hitting the gym hard and being very critical of what I eat or drink. I’ve had the occasional beer, but for the most part I haven’t really been drinking all that much (burning 400 calories at the gym and then drinking 1,500 calories worth of beer seems counterproductive, even by engineering math).

Anyways, down 12 pounds so far and I’m on the last hole on my belt. Like the tortoise, slow and steady wins the race.

4 responses to “12 Down”

  1. GusF says:

    Good for you! I should start doing that myself.

    Here are a few tips I’ve learned when I used to work out, back in the day:

    1. You need to burn about an extra 3200 calories to loose one pound of fat
    2. You might actually gain weight instead of loosing it. You are probably gaining muscle mass which weighs more than fat
    3. Stick to a program that works for you, but change it up a bit every so often
    4. Monitor everything you do at the gym, this can help you create new bench marks and help you see what exercise/weight routine is making progress
    5. Alcohol drinks are full of sugar, do the math
    6. Have one cheat day where you eat what you crave.
    7. Just have fun!

  2. Duane Storey says:

    Oh don’t worry, I’m a pro at losing weight. I’ve practically been on a diet since I was in grade 3.

  3. Jen Stoddart says:

    Good for you, Duane! I’ve practically been on a diet since I was in grade 3 too- I can totally relate. I am inspired by your motivation to be healthier- that’s what it’s all about! I’ve been making a solid effort to take better care of myself for the last while too. For me, balance has been key.
    (And remembering that the occasional beer and nacho night is okay every now and then too).

  4. Beth says:

    Congrats! 12 lbs is quite an impressive feat! I too am trying to get in better shape… especially since I bought a car (which resulted in less incidental walking during the day) and starting commuting to work (which meant I had less time to do the activities I like)! I find having a goal (like training for a race) or doing something team-oriented (where I feel like I’d be letting my teammates down if I didn’t show up) are what I need to motivate me to stick to any kind of exercise. I guess the best exercise is whatever you enjoy and can stick to!

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