Tips on Reaching Goals
02-04-2011, 09:02 AM
#1
FitDay Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Mar 2010
Posts: 10
Tips on Reaching Goals
So, I decided this morning that I want to be 130lbs by my birthday, which is June 15th. I currently weigh 138lbs.
I know, I know... 8 pounds in 4 months. SHOULD be totally doable, right? my problem is that weight loss has always been a very sloooow process for me, and i have never reached one of my goals in the past. I really want to reach this goal.
I am looking for some motivational/nutrition guides on how to do this. I am currently in week four of p90x, and don't really have any troubles when it comes to exercising. I enjoy it, and can work out consistently with little problem. My big problem is eating properly, without "cheating" (... is it still cheating if it happens daily..?). Are there any tips that people have on ways that I can keep myself on track, mostly with diet? Any pictures that people use to keep themselves motivated?
I was thinking of monitoring my eating more closely. I am thinking of staying around 1500-1800 calories per day, and trying to keep my carbs under 125 grams (i am a carb-aholic). any feedback? advice?
really appreciate it.
I know, I know... 8 pounds in 4 months. SHOULD be totally doable, right? my problem is that weight loss has always been a very sloooow process for me, and i have never reached one of my goals in the past. I really want to reach this goal.
I am looking for some motivational/nutrition guides on how to do this. I am currently in week four of p90x, and don't really have any troubles when it comes to exercising. I enjoy it, and can work out consistently with little problem. My big problem is eating properly, without "cheating" (... is it still cheating if it happens daily..?). Are there any tips that people have on ways that I can keep myself on track, mostly with diet? Any pictures that people use to keep themselves motivated?
I was thinking of monitoring my eating more closely. I am thinking of staying around 1500-1800 calories per day, and trying to keep my carbs under 125 grams (i am a carb-aholic). any feedback? advice?
really appreciate it.
02-04-2011, 09:28 AM
#2
FitDay Member
Join Date: May 2010
Posts: 55
Hey Katie,
I think you can definitely do this, a half a pound a week is a realistic goal and it sounds like you have a good reason to reach it in time, so that is always good motivation. And your diet plans sound good! Everyone responds to dieting a different way.
If you are having a hard time with the diet part, there are a few things that have worked for me in the past. First, it's always easier with a friend, so if you know someone that has similar dieting goals, you could check in with eachother and keep on track. You could probably find someone here that would be willing. I'm competitive, so I like doing bets like whoever meets their goals better gets a free night out from the other person or something like that
The biggest shorterm motivator for me is putting my weight goals on my fridge so I have to look at it before I go for the ice cream haha. You could also put it in your wallet if you are tempted to eat out. Good luck!!
I think you can definitely do this, a half a pound a week is a realistic goal and it sounds like you have a good reason to reach it in time, so that is always good motivation. And your diet plans sound good! Everyone responds to dieting a different way.
If you are having a hard time with the diet part, there are a few things that have worked for me in the past. First, it's always easier with a friend, so if you know someone that has similar dieting goals, you could check in with eachother and keep on track. You could probably find someone here that would be willing. I'm competitive, so I like doing bets like whoever meets their goals better gets a free night out from the other person or something like that
The biggest shorterm motivator for me is putting my weight goals on my fridge so I have to look at it before I go for the ice cream haha. You could also put it in your wallet if you are tempted to eat out. Good luck!!
02-04-2011, 10:33 AM
#3
FitDay Member
Join Date: Mar 2010
Location: Michigan
Posts: 3,742
02-04-2011, 10:34 AM
#4
FitDay Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Mar 2010
Posts: 10
i like those ideas!!!! the wallet is genius. i will try it for sure.
my mom and i kind of have always had a bet going. we said that whoever could lose 5 pounds first would have bragging rights.... that was like 6 months ago :P hahahaha :P
my mom and i kind of have always had a bet going. we said that whoever could lose 5 pounds first would have bragging rights.... that was like 6 months ago :P hahahaha :P
02-05-2011, 10:13 PM
#5
FitDay Member
Join Date: Feb 2011
Posts: 2
A commercial web site has a diff. perspective when it comes to weight loss. they rather turn you fit or a little bit buff whenever your program is applicable. you should try it.
Last edited by mecompco; 02-06-2011 at 12:43 AM. Reason: Removed SPAM link
02-05-2011, 10:48 PM
#6
FitDay Member
Join Date: Dec 2010
Posts: 90
Hi Katie,
You don't say what your activity levels are like. If you're not doing any exercise then think about starting. Weight's lost in the kitchen and not the gym, but exercise, especially lifting weights, will boost your metabolism and help get you leaner. (Don't worry, you won't bulk up)
Also... 1500-1800 calories is a big range. 1800 calories doesn't sound to me like a weight reduction intake for someone who's only 138lb. Have you used Fitday's weight goal calculator? It will give a good idea of how many calories your body needs each day and it can help you set a weight loss target.
I'm no expert, but I would think that 1600 calories would be a better, more specific target for you. Stay on top of those carbs, keep up the protein and stuff your face with lovely fresh veggies.
Good luck
You don't say what your activity levels are like. If you're not doing any exercise then think about starting. Weight's lost in the kitchen and not the gym, but exercise, especially lifting weights, will boost your metabolism and help get you leaner. (Don't worry, you won't bulk up)
Also... 1500-1800 calories is a big range. 1800 calories doesn't sound to me like a weight reduction intake for someone who's only 138lb. Have you used Fitday's weight goal calculator? It will give a good idea of how many calories your body needs each day and it can help you set a weight loss target.
I'm no expert, but I would think that 1600 calories would be a better, more specific target for you. Stay on top of those carbs, keep up the protein and stuff your face with lovely fresh veggies.
Good luck
02-06-2011, 05:37 AM
#7
FitDay Premium Member
Join Date: Sep 2010
Posts: 41
If that's about 1/2 pound a week (saw someone else wrote that), then I don't think it should be a problem at all!
Along time ago, I did WW and did well with it. HOWEVER, I did notice that I had to reduce my carbs to get that scale moving consistently. I do not know what the actual numbers were in terms of carbs or calories though.
Today, my doctor put me on a food plan very similar to the one outlined in the Primal Blueprint. I'm losing faster on this plan than I was previously. My carb intake seems to vary from 20-80 max.
I have noticed I need to eat probably less than 80 grams of carbs a day to lose weight at a decent rate...assuming my overall calorie intake is reasonable (slightly reduced). Usually, the two tend to go hand in hand.
My recommendation would be to consider reducing your carbs to 100 gramas and if that doesn't work, try +/- 80. Also, I agree, if calorie counting is part of your plan, you should check out the food calculator here to see what you are allowed daily in order to reach your goals. Perhaps 1500-1600 is more accurate.
Re: staying motivated...I would NOT keep ANY carbs (ESPECIALLY SWEETS!) in your house and make a committment not to eat any carbs (other than veggies and a little fruit during the week). On the weekends, perhaps allow yourself a sweet potato, brown rice or something not too damaging in the carb department...for a little treat. I've heard some people say that they only eat these items (healthy carbs) on days that start with "S."
Also...keep photos of yourself at goal weight around. Consider looking what kind of outfit or shirt, etc. that you might want to buy yourself for your birthday and how great its going to look on your at your new weight. Then when you get to your new weight...go out and BUY IT!
You are certain to do very well and meet your goal!!!
What a GREAT bday you are going to have!!!
Hang in there!!!!
Along time ago, I did WW and did well with it. HOWEVER, I did notice that I had to reduce my carbs to get that scale moving consistently. I do not know what the actual numbers were in terms of carbs or calories though.
Today, my doctor put me on a food plan very similar to the one outlined in the Primal Blueprint. I'm losing faster on this plan than I was previously. My carb intake seems to vary from 20-80 max.
I have noticed I need to eat probably less than 80 grams of carbs a day to lose weight at a decent rate...assuming my overall calorie intake is reasonable (slightly reduced). Usually, the two tend to go hand in hand.
My recommendation would be to consider reducing your carbs to 100 gramas and if that doesn't work, try +/- 80. Also, I agree, if calorie counting is part of your plan, you should check out the food calculator here to see what you are allowed daily in order to reach your goals. Perhaps 1500-1600 is more accurate.
Re: staying motivated...I would NOT keep ANY carbs (ESPECIALLY SWEETS!) in your house and make a committment not to eat any carbs (other than veggies and a little fruit during the week). On the weekends, perhaps allow yourself a sweet potato, brown rice or something not too damaging in the carb department...for a little treat. I've heard some people say that they only eat these items (healthy carbs) on days that start with "S."
Also...keep photos of yourself at goal weight around. Consider looking what kind of outfit or shirt, etc. that you might want to buy yourself for your birthday and how great its going to look on your at your new weight. Then when you get to your new weight...go out and BUY IT!
You are certain to do very well and meet your goal!!!
What a GREAT bday you are going to have!!!
Hang in there!!!!
Last edited by AAFlaca; 02-06-2011 at 05:47 AM.
02-07-2011, 02:57 PM
#9
FitDay Member
Join Date: Feb 2011
Posts: 1
Hey Katie, I would totally be willing to help with support if you'll do the same for me (as twinnermommy suggested). I think social support really helps me. I want to drop 10-15 lbs and it's been embarrassingly slow. My problem is eating also. I just love food, even if it's "healthy/natural". My vice is pb and cashews, which really don't help with fat loss if I consume it too much. So let me know what you think! 
02-16-2011, 04:08 AM
#10
FitDay Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Mar 2010
Posts: 10
Hi Katie,
You don't say what your activity levels are like. If you're not doing any exercise then think about starting. Weight's lost in the kitchen and not the gym, but exercise, especially lifting weights, will boost your metabolism and help get you leaner. (Don't worry, you won't bulk up)
Also... 1500-1800 calories is a big range. 1800 calories doesn't sound to me like a weight reduction intake for someone who's only 138lb. Have you used Fitday's weight goal calculator? It will give a good idea of how many calories your body needs each day and it can help you set a weight loss target.
I'm no expert, but I would think that 1600 calories would be a better, more specific target for you. Stay on top of those carbs, keep up the protein and stuff your face with lovely fresh veggies.
Good luck
You don't say what your activity levels are like. If you're not doing any exercise then think about starting. Weight's lost in the kitchen and not the gym, but exercise, especially lifting weights, will boost your metabolism and help get you leaner. (Don't worry, you won't bulk up)
Also... 1500-1800 calories is a big range. 1800 calories doesn't sound to me like a weight reduction intake for someone who's only 138lb. Have you used Fitday's weight goal calculator? It will give a good idea of how many calories your body needs each day and it can help you set a weight loss target.
I'm no expert, but I would think that 1600 calories would be a better, more specific target for you. Stay on top of those carbs, keep up the protein and stuff your face with lovely fresh veggies.
Good luck
If that's about 1/2 pound a week (saw someone else wrote that), then I don't think it should be a problem at all!
Along time ago, I did WW and did well with it. HOWEVER, I did notice that I had to reduce my carbs to get that scale moving consistently. I do not know what the actual numbers were in terms of carbs or calories though.
Today, my doctor put me on a food plan very similar to the one outlined in the Primal Blueprint. I'm losing faster on this plan than I was previously. My carb intake seems to vary from 20-80 max.
I have noticed I need to eat probably less than 80 grams of carbs a day to lose weight at a decent rate...assuming my overall calorie intake is reasonable (slightly reduced). Usually, the two tend to go hand in hand.
My recommendation would be to consider reducing your carbs to 100 gramas and if that doesn't work, try +/- 80. Also, I agree, if calorie counting is part of your plan, you should check out the food calculator here to see what you are allowed daily in order to reach your goals. Perhaps 1500-1600 is more accurate.
Re: staying motivated...I would NOT keep ANY carbs (ESPECIALLY SWEETS!) in your house and make a committment not to eat any carbs (other than veggies and a little fruit during the week). On the weekends, perhaps allow yourself a sweet potato, brown rice or something not too damaging in the carb department...for a little treat. I've heard some people say that they only eat these items (healthy carbs) on days that start with "S."
Also...keep photos of yourself at goal weight around. Consider looking what kind of outfit or shirt, etc. that you might want to buy yourself for your birthday and how great its going to look on your at your new weight. Then when you get to your new weight...go out and BUY IT!
You are certain to do very well and meet your goal!!!
What a GREAT bday you are going to have!!!
Hang in there!!!!
Along time ago, I did WW and did well with it. HOWEVER, I did notice that I had to reduce my carbs to get that scale moving consistently. I do not know what the actual numbers were in terms of carbs or calories though.
Today, my doctor put me on a food plan very similar to the one outlined in the Primal Blueprint. I'm losing faster on this plan than I was previously. My carb intake seems to vary from 20-80 max.
I have noticed I need to eat probably less than 80 grams of carbs a day to lose weight at a decent rate...assuming my overall calorie intake is reasonable (slightly reduced). Usually, the two tend to go hand in hand.
My recommendation would be to consider reducing your carbs to 100 gramas and if that doesn't work, try +/- 80. Also, I agree, if calorie counting is part of your plan, you should check out the food calculator here to see what you are allowed daily in order to reach your goals. Perhaps 1500-1600 is more accurate.
Re: staying motivated...I would NOT keep ANY carbs (ESPECIALLY SWEETS!) in your house and make a committment not to eat any carbs (other than veggies and a little fruit during the week). On the weekends, perhaps allow yourself a sweet potato, brown rice or something not too damaging in the carb department...for a little treat. I've heard some people say that they only eat these items (healthy carbs) on days that start with "S."
Also...keep photos of yourself at goal weight around. Consider looking what kind of outfit or shirt, etc. that you might want to buy yourself for your birthday and how great its going to look on your at your new weight. Then when you get to your new weight...go out and BUY IT!
You are certain to do very well and meet your goal!!!
What a GREAT bday you are going to have!!!
Hang in there!!!!
thanks!!!
Hey Katie, I would totally be willing to help with support if you'll do the same for me (as twinnermommy suggested). I think social support really helps me. I want to drop 10-15 lbs and it's been embarrassingly slow. My problem is eating also. I just love food, even if it's "healthy/natural". My vice is pb and cashews, which really don't help with fat loss if I consume it too much. So let me know what you think!
