Posts: 1,334
5/19/13 8:53 P

HI All, I've just joined this group. I have come to believe that exercise is THE KEY to me losing weight, but I have difficulty doing it consistently without getting run down or ill.. thanks to autoimmune issues. Anyway, I figured joining this group might give me help and insights in regard to exercising effectively and getting past the on-again-off-again pattern I seem to be in!

Pounds lost: 10.0

0 26 52 78

104

SparkPoints: (5,443)
Fitness Minutes: (825)
Posts: 158
5/13/13 5:43 P

Hi All - My name is Diana and new to this team. I hope I get some tips on getting started exercising. I feel because of my weight I can't really do much. I've been inspired and want to do this.

Pounds lost: 0.0

0 15.75 31.5 47.25

63

Posts: 6
4/26/13 2:28 P

Hello teammates! My name is Tymeka. I'm really looking forward to getting healthy, loosing weigh & becoming more active.

Posts: 62
4/23/13 1:19 A

Same here. I feel like a blob. But I have lost weight before and trained before. Changes do happen.

Edited by: FRENCHSEAMS at: 4/23/2013 (01:19)

current weight: 240.6

253 229 205 181

157

Posts: 62
4/23/13 1:14 A

Hi everyone. I just joined spark after a two year break and I'm 30 pounds heavier in that time. Major stress in my life so I'm not going to beat myself up. But, i really am unhappy at this weight. I've been up and down my whole life but never this big. First time in my life too going up a flight of stairs makes me slightly out of breath. I used to walk up 50 flights of stairs when i was 20 just for the exercise.

So, it's time to start exercising. I do have a room with a tv, a DVD and exercise tapes so i have no excuse. No money for the gym, but a dog that needs walking.

current weight: 240.6

253 229 205 181

157

Posts: 52
4/16/13 1:32 P

I just joined the team as I have a lot of weight to lose. Exercise isn't the easiest for me as I have rheumatoid arthritis in my spine, hips, and legs. But I'm doing what I can.

Posts: 32
4/16/13 11:12 A

I DO NOT do the jumping I can't. I just do the dancing moves. I would recommend searching for a beginner one. It was a lot better and very little if any jumping. Just remember if you are moving then you are burning calories. It doesn't matter if you get it all right just keep moving. Sometimes I had to stop and walk in place then get back to it. Focus on what you can do not on what you can't. I believe in you!

current weight: 297.0

304 263 222 181

140

SparkPoints: (10,162)
Fitness Minutes: (9,856)
Posts: 132
4/15/13 9:14 P

I want so badly to be able to do zumba, all the steps, yoga, I would settle for the modified version of the moves. But I can't. It sucks. I will just have to take it slow and eventually I will be able to jump around.

Posts: 32
4/15/13 12:53 P

Hey all I am Angela. I have been on sp about 2 weeks and am looking forward to connecting with others to encourage them and be encouraged. Exercise at this size can be rough. My step daughter who 147 is like push it mom you can do it. I look at her and go no I can't. My body won't let me and of course she doesn't understand. I am trying lots of new exercises. I have been doing a lot of zumba and pilates (modified of course). I know my sister used to aquacerising which is easy on the joints and a lot of walking. Leslie Somers I believe is her name she had some really good walk in your home videos. I HATE working our in public. That is why videos are my friend. I can do what I need in the privacy of my home. No one judge and not worried about how I look. Just getting me healthy. Thanks Susie I saw this team on your page.

current weight: 297.0

304 263 222 181

140

Posts: 582
4/7/13 4:10 P

Hello my name is Linda,i just saw this team and was glad to see it.I am going to be 64 in a few months.I have asthma,hypothyroid,and high blood pressure.It takes forever to lose a pound,but i just keep at it.I have a hard time exercising,and when i do some dvd i have to skip half of them,there is no getting on the floor for me i have a hard time getting up.I tend to stick to chair exercises,resistance bands and some walk in place.also some yoga on the wii.

current weight: 278.0

278 246 214 182

150

SparkPoints: (651)
Fitness Minutes: (192)
Posts: 8
4/1/13 2:55 P

I turned 49 on March 30th. My goal is to lose 50lbs by my 50th birthday.

SparkPoints: (3,352)
Fitness Minutes: (1,366)
Posts: 72
3/24/13 11:00 P

I am new to this whole scene at SparkPeople but I am excited at what an amazing group of people this seems to be!! :)
Anywho, I am Jessica. I am 22. I have been overweight my entire life and while I tend to eat healthy by nature; I have a sweet tooth. I am ready for change. I am tired of making excuses. I am ready to get started on living my life. I AM READY FOR CHANGE!

Tell me about you... :)

current weight: 242.0

262 231.5 201 170.5

140

SparkPoints: (1,348)
Fitness Minutes: (80)
Posts: 9
3/23/13 3:29 P

Hello all!

I am a returning SP member, but new to this group. This is my last good attempt to lose weight naturally before giving in and doing weight loss surgery. I am 38 and a stay at home, homeschooling mother of three boys and one pit bull. Not only does my weight hinder exercise, but I also have Rheumatoid Arthritis and back issues that limit my mobility. I am hopefully that losing some of the weight will help some of my back pain and mobility issues.

Pounds lost: 0.0

0 40 80 120

160

Posts: 567
3/17/13 1:51 P

Hi everyone!

I joined last week but I thought I would introduce myself. My name is Sandy and I'm from Arizona. I've been on SP for a really long time but recently started my weight loss journey over again (I got way off track). I joined so I could really get some more ideas about exercise so I can fine tune my workout routine to become more fit!

current weight: 259.0

282 274 266 258

250

SparkPoints: (1,095)
Fitness Minutes: (68)
Posts: 66
3/8/13 5:32 P

Hello! I recently joined; I'm 5'2" and have 85 pounds to lose. I don't want that to overwhelm me; I need to focus on one pound at a time. I have no patience when it comes to weight loss; I want it off now! However, I realize I need to cultivate patience because it is not going to all come off. It takes time. Thus my new mindset of one pound at a time.

I'm looking forward to getting to know the team members. I live in Lyons, a suburb of Chicago.

Thank you! Becky

SparkPoints: (2,089)
Fitness Minutes: (703)
Posts: 15
3/4/13 12:03 P

Good morning everyone,

My name is Tiffany, and I'm a new mama to a great little boy. I'm here to lose 106 lbs and get fit once more. I'm really looking forward to this group because exercise is my weak spot. I'm fairly good at counting my calories and eating healthy foods, but my brain will do back flips trying to weasel out of a workout. I'm really committed this time though, and I look forward to getting to know all of you better.

Best,
Tiffany

SparkPoints: (7,247)
Fitness Minutes: (4,027)
Posts: 1,465
3/2/13 12:49 P

Hi everyone,
This is my third time returning to SparkPeople and I’m really determined that this time I’m going to succeed! (My first step is positive thinking, can you tell?) I’ve been trying really hard to find exercises that not only are things I can actually do but also aren’t BORING! I have always used walking as my main form of exercise and was doing pretty good until recently when I developed a foot condition called Morton’s Neuroma which is very painful and not curable. I was walking at least 2 miles a day before that and now can’t even make it around the block without wondering if I’m going to make it home. I also have arthritis in my knees, lower back and neck so that limits things a lot too. I own WiiFit and there are several things I can do on it but doing anything all the time gets to be boring and then I stop. I used to listen to audio books while I walked and would only listen if I was walking so I would be encouraged to walk more so I could hear more of the story. Trying to find a substitute for that is frustrating me! I look forward to sharing ideas with other people who also have exercise challenges.

SparkPoints: (4,937)
Fitness Minutes: (100)
Posts: 145
2/5/13 1:01 P

Hi Everyone! My name is Susie and I'm from Texas. I am fairly new to SparkPeople and have been here about a month. I have yet to start an exercise program and I am getting so excited about getting these pounds OFF for good. I could use any support, ideas for exercise as I cannot move very well or any ideas on nutrition. Take care and I look forward to meeting ya'll...

Pounds lost: 30.4

0 67.5 135 202.5

270

SparkPoints: (3,079)
Fitness Minutes: (2,259)
Posts: 115
2/5/13 12:46 A

hi everyone. im Abby, 23 yrs old from Texas. Mother of a girl & boy ages 8&3. I'm a night auditor at a hotel on the beach. Diabetic Type 2. Needing to lose 120+ lbs, and working hard at it!

Pounds lost: 28.0

0 24 48 72

96

SparkPoints: (6,248)
Fitness Minutes: (11,576)
Posts: 258
2/2/13 4:13 P

Hello Dayna!

May Minutes: 1,019

0 41.25 82.5 123.75

165

SparkPoints: (31,338)
Fitness Minutes: (21,756)
Posts: 4,092
2/2/13 2:43 P

Hello! My name is Dayna, I am a mother of 3 wonderful kids, married to a great guy and I have 2 jobs, All which I wouldn't change for the world. The only thing I would change is my weight and that's why I am here! I can't wait to shed some more weight. I have lost about 60 pounds in the past 3 years. Lots more to go! Another 65 pounds would be fantastic!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pounds lost: 19.0

0 16.75 33.5 50.25

67

SparkPoints: (6,248)
Fitness Minutes: (11,576)
Posts: 258
1/25/13 12:21 A

Welcome to the team!

May Minutes: 1,019

0 41.25 82.5 123.75

165

SparkPoints: (963)
Fitness Minutes: (726)
Posts: 42
1/24/13 5:41 P

Hi everybody!! My name is Shanicqua and I am 20 years old (turning 21 this coming March). i am excited to be part of this team and am looking forward to conversing with you all. i have been a member of Sparkpeople for a while now. I have lost a tremendous amount of weight going from 245 pounds to now 219 pounds; and i am not done yet!! My goal is to get down to 170 pounds!!

SparkPoints: (6,248)
Fitness Minutes: (11,576)
Posts: 258
1/21/13 6:44 P

Welcome to the team!

May Minutes: 1,019

0 41.25 82.5 123.75

165

SparkPoints: (9,229)
Fitness Minutes: (5,180)
Posts: 1,343
1/21/13 5:09 P

Welcome to the team!

SparkPoints: (565)
Fitness Minutes: (10)
Posts: 8
1/21/13 5:05 P

Hi, my name is Georgia. I am new to this team. I started SP Jan 2, 2013. I am 59 yrs old and have a multitude of health issues. I have ruptured discs in my neck and lower back, degenerative disc disease, post polio syndrome, fibromyalgia, and spinal stenosis. I also have COPD and have had 2 heart attacks. I have a total of 80 pounds to lose. I will admit that I have been fearful of staring an exercise program for fear of injuring myself. I started the exercise phase of this journey today. I will take it slow and easy. I did 10 minutes of cardio with Sweatin to the Oldies. My goal is to increase by 5 minutes a week untill I can do 30 minutes. I need all of the support that I can get from other team members and will also be here to support you.

SparkPoints: (9,229)
Fitness Minutes: (5,180)
Posts: 1,343
1/21/13 4:44 P

Welcome to the team!

Edited by: VICKI-BISHOP56 at: 1/21/2013 (17:08)

SparkPoints: (473)
Fitness Minutes: (496)
Posts: 11
1/21/13 2:31 P

Hello, I am new to the team. I am 40 yrs old and about 100 lbs overweight. I have 2 children-girl 12 & boy 10. I am looking for help & motivation to get me started on this journey.

SparkPoints: (6,248)
Fitness Minutes: (11,576)
Posts: 258
1/21/13 2:04 P

Hello Teri! to the team!
Yes, Spark certainly has a wonderful collection of resources for those of us trying to get healthy and back in shape.

May Minutes: 1,019

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SparkPoints: (3,659)
Fitness Minutes: (1,288)
Posts: 48
1/21/13 9:49 A

Hello everyone, I have been here a few days I'm amazed at all the great stuff on this site
Well I hope to make some great friend
And get thin at the same time
Have a great day bye Teri

SparkPoints: (9,229)
Fitness Minutes: (5,180)
Posts: 1,343
1/20/13 10:40 A

Welcome to the team.

SparkPoints: (2,560)
Fitness Minutes: (1,217)
Posts: 13
1/20/13 9:39 A

Hi all, newbie to the team. Been a part of SP for some time, yet struggle to be consistent. I feel. Like I stand on the sidelines and read about how successful others are but struggle to get to get into the game! HELP!

Pounds lost: 8.0

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SparkPoints: (6,248)
Fitness Minutes: (11,576)
Posts: 258
1/20/13 5:12 A

Hello stephanie! Welcome to the team!

May Minutes: 1,019

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SparkPoints: (3,208)
Fitness Minutes: (3,633)
Posts: 230
1/19/13 10:46 P

im stephanie i have 50 i want to lose

SparkPoints: (6,248)
Fitness Minutes: (11,576)
Posts: 258
1/8/13 1:57 P

May Minutes: 1,019

0 41.25 82.5 123.75

165

SparkPoints: (9,229)
Fitness Minutes: (5,180)
Posts: 1,343
1/7/13 5:28 P

Welcome to the team!

Posts: 300
1/7/13 4:42 P

Hello, everyone. I just joined this team. I have been off and on SP since 2010, and can't say I have ever really worked hard at achieving any success here. I do know that I have gained a lot of weight since first joining this site. So, here I am again, determined to make real changes and have success! I look forward to getting to know everyone!

SparkPoints: (9,229)
Fitness Minutes: (5,180)
Posts: 1,343
1/7/13 4:38 P

Rejoined, new user name...

Hi, I'm Vicki.
I'm 56,and I have 65 lbs to lose to reach my goal of 195 lbs. Once I reach that goal I'll decide how much further I want to go.
My hubby and I have just started going to a fitness center 3 times a week so I'm hoping this will help both of us to stay motivated to get the weight off. He needs to lose as much weight as possible as he has a heart condition.
I've been with sparkpeople off and on for a number of years but this time it's for keeps.
Look forward to getting to know you.

SparkPoints: (6,248)
Fitness Minutes: (11,576)
Posts: 258
12/31/12 6:35 P

Hello everyone!
My name is Cherise and I have been battling my weight for all of my adult life. At this point, I have about 120 pounds to lose. Until recently, the word exercise was the dirtiest word in my vocabulary! I avoided it like one would the rack or thumbscrews.

I have been on quite a journey for the last couple of years, trying to get healthy. It has been a battle, but I have learned a lot about myself in the process. I have not lost much weight so far, but I am living a much healthier lifestyle and am optimistic that permanent weightless is on the horizon.

I am happy to join this team and would like to invite you to add me as a friend. You should be able to find me using my username.

Happy New Year!

May Minutes: 1,019

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Posts: 323
12/25/12 4:19 A

I'm a 35 yr. old returning Sparker with 100lb. to lose. Since starting back in November, I've lost 10 pounds, though the past couple weeks I seem to lose and gain the same 2-3 pounds. I deal with PCOS and hypothyroidism (starting meds for the latter), and recent tests show I'm in the pre-diabetes and pre-hypertension range. I've been married for over 13 yrs. and battle infertility (mainly for health issues stated above). I'm ready to get this weight off for good so I can be there for my husband and family and perhaps future children.

Nutrition tracking has been key to my weight loss, but my fitness program is hit or miss. I've had good results over the yrs. with Leslie Sansone's Walk Away the Pounds (though she is slightly annoying) and my fave...Richard Simmons. I started doing these again along w/ some of the Spark videos. Also experimenting with Pilates and a bit of yoga (though I'm uncomfortable with the spiritual aspects of these)...the stretching has been great. I'm looking for accountability and want to make fitness a priority for 2013!



Edited by: SMARTIN77 at: 12/25/2012 (04:21)

Pounds lost: 26.2

0 28.5 57 85.5

114

SparkPoints: (389)
Fitness Minutes: (615)
Posts: 15
12/17/12 4:09 P

I am new to this team and fairly new to the site. I have no problem doing exercise once I get started but what often happens is that I get bored after a few weeks of the same stuff. I also have an issue with becoming obssesive with my exercise. I have goals that actually work for me and I am looking for some new resources for exercise. SistaSonya

Pounds lost: 31.8

0 65.5 131 196.5

262

Posts: 2,627
11/27/12 2:25 P

Hello new team.

I have been active on SparkPeople for awhile now. I love the nutrition info, the community feel, but I am lacking the motivation for exercise.

Joining a Fitness team may hold me a bit more accountable.

SparkPoints: (201)
Fitness Minutes: (194)
Posts: 1
11/25/12 8:13 P

Hello everyone,
My name is kim and I am a newbie to sparkpeople. I am 41 and 285 pounds. I am looking forward to getting the weight off asap.I am tired of people putting me down and saying that I will always be fat. So I need encouragement. I am looking to be 140 within a year or 2.

SparkPoints: (20,435)
Fitness Minutes: (29,305)
Posts: 65
11/18/12 5:35 A

Yeah, I know what you mean. I just want to be a person that can navigate between a regular 12 or 14. There are clothes that are mis sized, like leather. But I want to be an off the rack chick.

SparkPoints: (20,435)
Fitness Minutes: (29,305)
Posts: 65
11/18/12 5:32 A

I am Gwen, I live in the southeast part of Michigan. I exercise 7 days a week without fail,. If I don't feel all that well, I go anyway and do pool yoga or just we do my strength training mostly on Tuesday and Thursday's. I am at the gym M-W at 5:30 am to about 7 am which is mostly abs, arms and legs. When I feel really bad I walk the basement stairs or walk to the mall (live across from a mall). I also do Belly Dance, Hustle, BallRoom and the love of my life Zumba. I Zumba 3 days a week without fail....When I get a Groupon I also do Pole dancing and stripping, yes...strip. It is a lot of fun and you can get as naughty as you want to. I love to eat, so therefore I have to exercise plus I love movement, I was laid up for years with bad knees until
I had them replaced, I know have a raging case of Fibromyalgia and when I have attacks that is a mean thing. I also have just been diagnosed with Vertigo,I refuse to be a victim of any disease and I keep busy,I have been retired for 3 years. I am at a part of my life where i do as I please and don't need validation from anyone. I also suffer from depression, I lost my mom in 2010, my fiancé' in 2011 and 3 good friends this year. I am living my life because it is evident the life is short. On Sunday I workout 1 hour before I go to Cardio Kickbox Bootcamp, then off to church. A moving target is hard to hit. i a size 14 down from a 22. I did have weight loss surgery in 09. I am what I am and I am grateful.

Edited by: GWENDO51 at: 11/26/2012 (09:06)

SparkPoints: (1,638)
Fitness Minutes: (487)
Posts: 12
11/15/12 2:21 P

Hi my name is Lynne I am a returning member that has been gone for many years, I am 59 yrs old,I want to thankyou for inviting me to this team, I look forward to all of us reaching our personal goals and having fun along the way!!!! We CAN & will DO this!!!!

Pounds lost: 1.8

0 12.5 25 37.5

50

Posts: 353
11/5/12 11:10 A

Hello everyone,
I am Susmita. I'm 19. I am 10 pounds heavier than I'm supposed to be. I recently stumbled upon this cardio called ' Taebo' which is really my type because most days I'm stressed being in my junior year of college and all, so I feel like punching and kicking. This satisfies my craving to hit. So ya, I'm new at this team and I will try to be active in all the posts and the team stuff.

May Minutes: 60

0 187.5 375 562.5

750

Posts: 19
10/26/12 11:30 A

hello everyone

My name is Laurie and I am a SAHM of a soon to be 2 year old. I really want to have another baby but I need to be healthy first. I was 30 pounds heavier than when I was pregnant with my first and my dr told me then my weight might be an issue. Thankfully it wasn't but I don't want to take that chance. My main goal is to find exercises that aren't ridiculous for me to try to be doing and to plan healthy meals that I can get my husband to eat. I have tried the whole making a regular version and healthy version but that is too many temptations. Awfully hard to eat baked pork chop and spag squash while after I just cooked him fried pork chops and shells and cheese lol. He is wanting to be supportive so we are going to do the healthy eating thing together but it is up to me to get my butt off the couch and exercise. Sorry for the long spiel but I read in another introductory thread in this team about being honest in your postings so I am letting it all hang out lol.

SparkPoints: (375)
Fitness Minutes: (5)
Posts: 13
10/23/12 8:53 P

Hello my name is irene
I am starting new and looking forward to making new friends who are facing the same challenges of fighting the battle of losing weight and keeping it off !!

SparkPoints: (29,416)
Fitness Minutes: (19,845)
Posts: 1,459
10/13/12 4:01 P

Hi! I am Jaynee and working on NOT being a plus size! The exercise used to be a hard thing for me because of my size. Today, I actually had the guts to start a spinning class. It kicked my butt, but I made it through! Looking in the mirror (why, oh why, do gyms have to have mirrors all around them?) I realized that I am not disgusted with my body anymore! I am not happy with it but I can see that that the 2 months of working out have really improved it!

Anyway, I am looking forward to getting to know others here.

current weight: -1.4  under

5 2.5 0 -2.5

-5

SparkPoints: (8)
Fitness Minutes: (0)
Posts: 2
10/10/12 5:47 P

Hi, Beni, I just joined today and was so happy to see people like me. I also have physical challenges that prevent me from doing a lot of exercises. Don't even have a pool near by and not really any friends. I am also an emotional eater. Must have grown up in a community similar to you - waste not want not, use it up etc. my husband was that way too so we were not much help for each other.

SparkPoints: (880)
Fitness Minutes: (248)
Posts: 6
9/24/12 7:53 P

Good evening!

contemplating how to incorporate excerise into a very busy schedule. Any tips?

SparkPoints: (8,711)
Fitness Minutes: (3,624)
Posts: 226
9/23/12 4:44 P

Hello Everyone its nice to see you all. I have been with SparkPeople less than a week, but I must say I am really exited to be here with such nice and supportive people. So far I love what I see.
Take care everyone.

Pounds lost: 0.0

0 17.5 35 52.5

70

SparkPoints: (5,960)
Fitness Minutes: (2,026)
Posts: 181
9/21/12 6:00 P

Hi guys!
I've been an SparkPeople for a few months now and love it! I'm looking around to add a few more active teams to my roster. I love all the support out there!

Pounds lost: 20.0

0 6.5 13 19.5

26

Posts: 2,473
9/15/12 8:59 A

Hi Jeanne, Wow, except for the age we sound so similar!

I'm new to this forum and fairly new to sparkpeople. My goal is also hopefully to get to 135 but I'm working in small increments as putting down 135 seemed so huge of a goal!

I understand the joint pain and moving around. I've never been asked about being pregnant but when in the men's department looking for a shirt for my husband a woman told me - "honey there are some lovely plus sizes on sale" So I either looked too fat that I needed a men's shirt or too sloppy that I needed a sale! What is it with people? I did reply - Barnes and Noble has Miss Manners books on sale. oops, I am generally a very polite person.

I too am an emotional eater - I won't even go there. And that is my biggest problem. I also was taught no food is to be wasted. We always HAD to finish our plate. So it's a hard "habit" guilt to break. I guess the key - not to put so much on it. Haven't learned that I guess.

I also don't have anyone to do this with. We won't get into that either.
So, it looks like you now have a friend to do this with! You have been heard!

current weight: 0.0

0 0 0 0

0

SparkPoints: (64)
Fitness Minutes: (10)
Posts: 1
9/12/12 9:43 A

Hi everyone,

My name is Jeanne, I'm 29 years old and 200 pounds. My goal weight is 135.

I have a really hard time maintaining weight loss, I lost 65 pounds 2 years ago and then I piled it all back on.

My main motivation to lose weight is: my clothes don't fit (and it's really hard to find clothes that fit nicely - because of too much belly fat), people ask me if I'm pregnant, my joints are always hurting, it even hurts to walk or sit, and I need the energy to keep up with my 3 year old.

I'm an emotional eater, and overeating is definitely my problem. I also don't like to waste food - so I'll finish my whole plate even though I'm full. I love sugar, and I've tried to go without - but as soon as I have a little taste I fall off the wagon again.

I'm here mostly to look for some support and accountability. I don't really have anyone to do this with - as all of my friends are slim.

Thank you for hearing me out! :)

SparkPoints: (14,526)
Fitness Minutes: (6,396)
Posts: 34
9/8/12 7:39 A

Hello everyone, my name is Sue and I rejoined Spark People a few months ago. Life has been pretty rough for the past few years and my weight ballooned. My doctor decided that a 32 pound jump in 2 years was time to start pushing me. I guess that is all it took to get me back on track. I don't have a fast metabolism and it can take forever for me to lose weight, but I am working to keep a positive attitude and keep going.

Posts: 7,019
8/31/12 4:51 P

Hi team,
I started SP a few months ago and am loving it!
It offers accountability, support, problem solving and a wealth of information.
Have never been as successful at a lifestyle transition as I am now..
Started out at 210 pounds and as of today I weigh 185.5.
I am thrilled with the progress.
Still have the obsession to weigh daily and this gets me in trouble sometimes.
Guess that will be a future goal to be addressed.
Another goal not yet attained is exercising consistently.
Have a history of falling along with nerve damage to right leg which results in instability and weakness of right ankle and a slight drop foot.
Have been in physical therapy for a month and see moderate improvement.
Doing floor exercises are still out of the question since I can't get up by myself YET.
The paramedics have helped me out a few times with this but it remains embarrassing.
Am working on strengthening lower body to make that a thing of the past.
I also plan to join the local gym within the next 60 days. Wish me luck!
Well, I won't go on anymore. You get the idea.

current weight: 148.8

219 196.75 174.5 152.25

130

SparkPoints: (23,825)
Fitness Minutes: (14,035)
Posts: 759
8/30/12 11:03 A

Hi my name is Carollee I am 55 years old and weigh about 225. My highest weight was 300lbs back about 4 years ago. I recently started Turbo Jam but I tend to go gunho hurt myself. I also have arthritis.

current weight: 205.0

206 194.5 183 171.5

160

SparkPoints: (6,767)
Fitness Minutes: (4,986)
Posts: 102
8/23/12 12:25 A

Hi Everyone! My name is Sherri and I am returning to Sparkpeople after a long stressful and tumultuous year. I have been successful in the past and plan to be successful again. I have about 110 pounds to loose to get to my goal weight. My motto is just one pound at a time. About a month and a half ago I started consistently hitting the gym at least four days a week. I have a lower back problem that makes walking extremely painful, which means I like weights WAY more than cardio. I have managed to inch my way up to doing 12 minutes sustained walking on the treadmill and 6 minutes sustained on the elliptical trainer. I add an extra minute to each cardio machine each week. My goal is to get up to 30 minutes sustained cardio. I do get frustrated because it seems like so little, but with the weight training I am currently doing a 35-45 minute workout and I am drenched in sweat by the time I am done.

current weight: 310.0

316 277 238 199

160

SparkPoints: (5,290)
Fitness Minutes: (3,245)
Posts: 288
8/22/12 5:59 P

hi my name is Viola and i need to lose 80 lbs so i can feel good about myself.. i am looking for some buddys to help push me and make it happen.. i am a size 26-28 and I love to walk and sweat!!!

SparkPoints: (2,498)
Fitness Minutes: (4,923)
Posts: 9
8/22/12 8:44 A

Hi. My name is Kathy and I just joined SP. I have 71 lbs to lose to hit a healthy weight. I have struggled with my weight for a long time because I am an emotional eater (especially sweets). I am hoping that in this group I will find others who are facing the same struggle, and making progress in a positive direction. Glad to meet all of you:-)

Posts: 50
8/21/12 8:01 P

Hi everyone! I'm Cait and I'm new to SparkPeople. I'm just poking my head in to say hello as I wade through this website. I'm about halfway through my weight loss journey, working with a personal trainer and making fantastic progress however I'm lacking a strong social / support network and figured this might be a good place to start. :)

Pounds lost: 176.6

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320

Posts: 908
8/19/12 2:14 P

Hi!
I'm new to this team and looking for some motivation. I'm a Relapsed Sparker, returning after I finally graduated from college... at middle age.

The last three semesters nearly wiped out all the good I did with over a year Sparking, so I'm back at it. My old workouts are fine, though I can't do them all .. and I'm huffing and puffing, which is ... disheartening.
But, I'm looking for some new, Fun (is that possible?) workouts to zip things up. At my weight and with a tricky lower back, that can be a challenge. I look forward to hearing what others are doing.

Pounds lost: 5.5

0 11 22 33

44

SparkPoints: (11,912)
Fitness Minutes: (3,830)
Posts: 656
8/13/12 3:59 P

Hello! I know my alt4er ego--Mrs Claus is expected to be plus size, but being 5ft. tall and coming perilously close to 200 lbs. is no fun. I want to continue to be Mrs. Claus for many years to come (until my real hair is as white as my wig)--but each pound makes that unlikely. Have learned much the past couple of weeks here at SP--thanks everyone for sharing! (now if someone could just teach this old lady how to navigate message boards, threads and streams I would be ecstatic!!!)....

current weight: 155.5

170 157.5 145 132.5

120

SparkPoints: (2,581)
Fitness Minutes: (745)
Posts: 159
8/8/12 2:14 P

Hi my name is Melody (MJ) i have been with sparkpeople for a little over a week. So far I love it. Decided I better get a move on when I measured my butt and it was 5 1/2 feet around. Now I'm serious and very motivated to lose this weight. I'm a little nervous about exercising because I'm always scared I'm going to hurt my back or someting and I need to work. I'm taking it slow and just walking and doing easy exercises for now.

current weight: 304.0

320 290 260 230

200

SparkPoints: (24,681)
Fitness Minutes: (13,589)
Posts: 2,701
8/7/12 5:22 A

Hi My name is Susan. I am new to the team and relatively new to SP. I joined in May but blew it off for about 3 weeks. I have been consistent since the beginning of June. I started with just dancing for exercise mainly because I am so heavy and out of shape that I didn't think I could do much else. The other problem I had was that due to anxiety/panic attacks, I couldn't leave my house. Things have changed since I got involved with SP. I am getting out of the house. I go for walks now and again! Woohoo! I am even doing a few other types of exercise. My favorite is dancing. I just put on some music and get my groove on. Umm, no it isn't always coordinated and I don't think I will even try out for So You Think You Can Dance! lol

Pounds lost: 3.8

0 5.75 11.5 17.25

23

Posts: 35
8/1/12 4:54 P

Hey everyone! i'm new, name's Carmine (Car-men). I'm 27 years old and obese. My dr advised I have high cholesterol and I need to lose about 38 lbs to be where I was last year. I am currently working on walking just over a while about 2-3 times a week, and do DDP Yoga everyday. Since June 25 I have lost 8 lbs just from dropping sodium filled tv dinners out of my menu, I take salad to work and other than chicken I don't eat meat (and I only eat chicken once a week or once every two weeks). I hope we can help each other and get to our goals!

current weight: 500.0

596 526.75 457.5 388.25

319

SparkPoints: (3,064)
Fitness Minutes: (2,470)
Posts: 60
7/26/12 10:11 A

Hello! I'm 26 and hoping to find encouragement from this team. It is difficult to do some exercises at plus size. I'm looking forward to the day of not wearing plus size clothing anymore!

SparkPoints: (8,181)
Fitness Minutes: (6,793)
Posts: 305
7/20/12 8:21 A

Hi I'm Laura and I'll be turning 29 in September. I decided that since my 30th is not that far away now I want to feel fit and healthy. I am happy with my curvy UKsize16 frame but would like to be keep up fitness wise with the rest of the girls in my dance troupe!

May Minutes: 115

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1000

Posts: 94
7/17/12 4:01 A

Hey everyone. I've been on Spark People for awhile and it's helped me lose about 45 pounds. But I need to lose more. I hate the way I look and it always makes me sad and depressed. I am trying to find a way to lose weight with having exercises that I can find to do without harming my health. I'm disabled and I can't move around like everyone else. Please help me?

current weight: 258.0

307 270.25 233.5 196.75

160

SparkPoints: (116)
Fitness Minutes: (0)
Posts: 2
7/16/12 10:55 P

hello everyone ! i am new to spark people. this evening marks my very first day on here. i am a very large woman that has several health issues. needing some exercises that i can do with out causing any more pain. i currently have 5 forms of arthritis and at times the pain is out of this world. looking to live a better life for me and for my kids.

current weight: 350.0

350 337.5 325 312.5

300

SparkPoints: (7,665)
Fitness Minutes: (4,281)
Posts: 358
7/16/12 2:28 A

Hello Everyone,
I am Kathy, obviously right? I am relatively new to SP (since the end of April). I am very new to this Team and think it's a great one. It is so much harder to exercise when you are Plus sized. I am very Plus. I am working on it though. Thanks for letting me join!

KG

Pounds lost: 9.0

0 24.75 49.5 74.25

99

Posts: 792
7/13/12 9:29 P

Hi all, I'm Lorraine, I'm 50, I'm a SP returnee.. I'm one of those that just get so involved with other things that I put myself on the back burner, and it's time for me to start thinking about myself.. I'm starting off with a realistic goal of 8lbs. for the month, I'm currently at the 6lb mark, and I'm proud of myself for sticking with it and putting myself first.. small steps will get me there...
Looking forward to making some new friends

Edited by: SISMAC at: 7/14/2012 (14:23)

Pounds lost: 23.0

0 17.75 35.5 53.25

71

SparkPoints: (695)
Fitness Minutes: (1,069)
Posts: 3
7/9/12 1:58 P

Hi guys. My name is Jen, I'm 29 years old, married, and have 3 children. I joined SP in May of this year b/c I am obese and need to lose this weight! I used to be so thin when I was younger; I cheered and played volleyball and weighed around 130. I got pregnant with my first child and it all kind of went downhill from there. I'd like to eventually get to 140 lbs. My doctor thinks 150 lbs would be great, so we'll see. I started this journey May 1, 2012 and weighed 299 O_O. Ugh. I hate seeing that number. Since I started eating healthy and exercising, I've lost 21 lbs. I was a bit disappointed when I stepped on the scale after a month and only losing 1 lb, but my Dr. assured me that it's because I'm gaining muscle=] I'm hoping I can get my weight under control so that I don't get high blood pressure(my BP is PERFECT now!). I'm also terrified of heart problems from all of this excess weight. ok, that about sums it up. Sorry for the novel! haha

Posts: 765
7/7/12 10:21 A

I'm 55, soon to be 56 and I have been married 16 years to a wonderful guy. I've got about 60 lbs I'm working towards losing but it has no time table. I'm not dieting, I'm living, and learning to make the heathiest choices I can when it comes to treating my body well.

SparkPoints: (1,745)
Fitness Minutes: (1,082)
Posts: 9
7/5/12 6:12 P

Hello all. I'm Chris. As someone who's been "big" all my life, I'm a firm believer in "Health at any Size". I'm never going to be a size 4...but, I do need to get healthier! I've been tracking food and doing some of the seated cardio and strength training videos on here so far. I'm glad I found them because I have bad hips and a crappy back, so low/no impact aerobics are my friend :)

I'm a stay-at-home mom with 3 kids, and when I'm not on the computer I'm knitting, crocheting, or baking. I have about 5 years to get back down to 220 so I can ride everything at Cedar Point, and I know I can do it :)

Posts: 1,101
6/28/12 5:38 P

Hi everyone...just found this team and wanted to join in...I've been looking around and trying things like the nutrition tracker...it has worked wonders already. I'm a Boston native, moved to Florida 2 years ago and there's NO SNOW here!! I guess you can tell that I'm just one crazy old lady...love to meet you all here and share experiences.

Total SparkPoints: 34,536

	30,000 32,499 34,999 37,499	39,999
SparkPoints Level 15

Posts: 999
6/23/12 3:12 P

Hi! My name is Tamani and I'm getting braver everyday. I am a mother of 3. One of my children has been disabled since birth but is my inspiration. Another, my youngest just graduated from high school last week. I have 2 grand daughters from my eldest daughter and they are my hearts delight. This takes a lot of courage to first admit that I have a serious weight problem. Second it takes more courage to finally do something about it and third it takes courage to stick to it. I am grossly over weight. I have been for quite some time. I seriously decided that I wanted to be at a healthy weight so that a few health issues would decrease or go away. I am blessed that I don't have high blood pressure, normal cholestrol readings, good heart function for such large weight and everything is working. I want my body to function much better than it does at the present. I started my journey a few years ago but stopped. Something this spring happened inside of me and I woke up a new woman. I want to be able to walk normal, dance into the night fly in a plane without a belt extender, wear thigh high sheer stockings, hiking in the wilderness.

I'm a size 26,28,30 depending on what the cut of the clothes. I'd like to get down to a 12-14. I'm very comfortable with those sizes and clothes look best on me. I lost weight when I was 17 down to a size 9/10 from a 14. I looked terrible and at my age now, I know it would look bad. I use to do long distance walking but a car accident curtailed that. I just want to be able to walk and enjoy life better. I want to travel with my children and grand children and enjoy them.

So far, SP has been a huge help in every way. I'm taking small steps and these are turning into miles. Everyday I log in I learn something new and valuable that helps me in my journey for better health.

SparkPoints: (891)
Fitness Minutes: (890)
Posts: 24
6/22/12 12:33 P

Hello, My name is Jeannie. I live in Cedar Rapids, IA. I am a 36 year old stay at home mom of 5 girls ages 19, 17, 12, 8, and 2. I also babysit 3 boys ages 12, 11, and 8.

I started about 2 months ago on my journey to a healthier me. I have cut my eating by at least half so far and started walking and working out on the total gym. Only lost 7 pounds so far from 250 to 243 but I knew the process would be slow for me, plus I am weight training so I knew it would be a few months before I started seeing a major weight shift.

I am taking baby steps after realizing..1. Diets don't work for me..I have a two week duration of diet and crash syndrome. 2. I had no idea how much calories I was consuming a day and cutting that out cold turkey was a setup for failure on my part. 3. I barely notice the small cut backs as I take the baby steps but can easily look back and think wow I use to eat 3 bowls of that, now I am down to half a bowl which feels really good. 4. I finally understand and accept this may be not only a several month journey but maybe even several years before I reach my goal and I am okay with that as long as I am moving forward.

I will be doing my first 5K walk on July 4th.

My long term goal is to become healthy by reaching a healthy BMI. My goal weight is between 120 and 140 (depending on the amount of muscle I gain and of course the size I reach. Mostly I just want to be a healthy size more then weigh a certain amount)

I have great support at home. My two oldest daughters are doing the 5K with me. My 17 year old is also trying to become healthier and lose weight so we are in this together. I am trying to get every one on board with eating healthy and just doing something each day to move and become more active. I love Spark People because every one is so helpful and supportive and its motivational to see people just like myself achieve their goal.

Pounds lost: 9.4

0 27 54 81

108

Posts: 2
6/18/12 4:14 A

Hello - Just starting out on my journey. I have a year to loose 150 pounds. But I am confident that I will accomplish this. I have rediscovered the gym and I am pretty much addicted. I am working up the courage to get into the pool for water aerobics, I have spent the time jogging and walking, lifting weights, and cycling. I am focusing on getting out of my own way. I am the one that has all the negative self talk running through me head. So far my worst fears have NOT happened ~ no one pointed and laughed at me as I lug my fat around the place. They dont stare and the fat girl Iike I suspected that they would. Besides I am really focused on what I am doing as I am noticing they are also. So I am looking around to see what others are doing to accomplish their goals. Also looking for feedback on what kids of things others like to do in the gyms , classes, routines , things of that sort.

Posts: 808
6/14/12 8:24 P

Hello Everyone....I am Lori and a workout junkie. I have always been a plus size girl my entire life and finally decided that enough is enough. My lifestyle change came after having two miscarriages and realizing that if I can't be a mom then I can be a healthy aunt to my three nephews and two litle sisters. I am determined to be the one that they look up to.

I am well on my way to a new me. I have gone from a 3XL shirt down to my husbands XL shirt. It felt so great to be able to wear his XL shirt to my company sponsored golf outing. I was shocked when I was able to wear it and it was not a second layer of skin for me. I do have to say that he was nervous that I was wearing his shirt. That opens a whole new wardrobe for me. Woot Woot!!!!!

I am one day away from finishing ChaLean Extreme and then it is time for 90 days of Turbo Fire! My spark buddy and I are going to do this together. We work out every night using Skype. It definitely holds us both accountable.

I have to attribute my weight loss thus far to my diet change (incorporating Shakeology and going vegetarian), sticking to my workout program, and taking time out at lunch time to get my 30 minute walk in. I also take pictures of my food and post to facebook to further make sure that I am eating healthy...Plus a few of my friends follow my food posts for the gluten free recipes that I prepare. My husband is gluten intolerant.

I look forward to your motivation and the postings from my fellow teammates to drive me to success.

Time to creat the goals for the new week....Stay focused on you and kick some calories butt!

SparkPoints: (212)
Fitness Minutes: (70)
Posts: 39
6/11/12 8:01 A

hey cindy welcome

Pounds lost: 20.6

0 65.5 131 196.5

262

SparkPoints: (3,199)
Fitness Minutes: (1,236)
Posts: 218
6/8/12 11:03 P

I'm getting around to introducing myself!

My name is Cindy and I'm turning 35 this year. I have a beautiful little boy who is five and going into kindergarten, and is my little health nut. I'm married to his father, and I've been struggling with my weight all my life.

To be honest, it was a mixture of a lot of things, but a lot of it was disordered eating. Having struggled with that for years, and yo-yo-ing from 140 to 300+, it's something that always lurks there. However, I'm bound and determined to do this the right way, for myself and for my son.

I have been sedentary for quite some time, I do have a blog that explains some of it, but I decided enough is enough, and this exercise thing is making me feel 100% better emotionally. I feel like I sound like a lunatic, telling everyone they should eat better and exercise, but if I had any idea that this WORKED this way, I would have done it a long time ago. Before, I did plenty of exercising, but exercising on very few calories a day just causes a crash. That wasn't good. THIS is good. :)

So that's me. I'll be around here. :)

Pounds lost: 0.0

0 34.75 69.5 104.25

139

SparkPoints: (212)
Fitness Minutes: (70)
Posts: 39
6/7/12 9:27 A

hey all
my name is marylynn but i go by mary im 25 years old i have stuggled with my weight sence i was 11 i have always been over weight i stuggled with many things thru out the year i am now at my heaviest and im done ready for a change i work very hard 2 jobs and im about to start collage i need to lose weight for me i dont want to die young and if i keep up on the road im going i will die young i started this month off new i was recenty prescribed phentermine by my doctor last month but only took it a few days and then i back slide stopped eating right and gained a few pounds back i started at 401 went up to 406 now im back down to 399.9 i am doing weight watichers as well for this week so far i have only walked about 20 or 25 min a day and its going good so far i have zumba dvds and im about to start doing them agai n

now i have a question someone once told me that if your dieting you shouldnt excersize but that doesnt seem right is it true

Edited by: MARYB2431 at: 6/7/2012 (09:33)

Pounds lost: 20.6

0 65.5 131 196.5

262