SparkPoints: (2,794)
Fitness Minutes: (5,045)
Posts: 25
9/17/11 6:41 P

Hey Jacobi,
I also have an extremely busy schedule. I'm double majoring while at the same time starting my master's degree (it's a progressive program so I just go straight into grad classes) and I work 30+hours a week at a film studio. I'm also an RA which comes with a lot of other meetings and time commitments. I have to schedule exercise into my calendar like I would any other appointment. In fact my life is probably a little too scheduled but that's what helps me manage my time. As others have pointed out even if it's just 10min that's better than nothing. I bring workout clothes with me everywhere I go and if I have a 30min break I'll quickly change and jog a lap around campus or something. Jump Rope is great for getting your heart rate up quickly :) A lot of times we think exercise has to be this intense session at the gym but it really can be as simple as walking more. Also perhaps try waking up a little earlier? I know it's hard but even just 20min earlier makes a HUGE difference!

I totally understand the motivation thing, that's something I'm currently suffering from myself. I was doing really well and then it's like I hit a brick wall. What helped me in the beginning was making a promise I'd workout everyday, like I was saying even if just for 10min. Not sure if you read the founder's book "The Spark" but he talks more about starting small to get big results and I'd definitely recommend it.

And I'm also a picky eater. I can't use the pre-planned SparkPeople meals so I disabled that option. Having the trackers log what I'm eating showed me which nutrients I wasn't getting enough of and their suggestions were helpful. For example, I'm a vegetarian and wasn't getting enough protein so I started making protein shakes/smoothies with frozen fruit and almond milk. Not only are they delicious and low-cal but they really really fill you up. That's just one suggestion but message me if you'd like others :) It's just about learning ways to get around our picky eating

Hope that helps!
-B

Edited by: BIRCHFIE at: 9/17/2011 (18:47)

current weight: 148.0

169 155.5 142 128.5

115

Posts: 48
9/16/11 5:25 P

I have problems with motivation too, and there's a couple things I've done to deal with it at college:

1. WALK EVERYWHERE. As long as your campus is walkable, that is. Mine really is, and so I take the long way around everywhere and walk as much as possible. That way, even if I can't fit in a full workout (or I lose motivation!) I've still been able to get active and walk that day.
2. Try something different and fun! If your school offers it, take classes in martial arts, or try out the rock wall, or anything. I'm taking a parkour class this semester and even though the workout for it is going to be a lot more intense than any I've ever done, I'm pretty psyched for it!

Posts: 13,636
9/14/11 9:10 P

yo there and be good to yourself! have lots of fun!

current weight: 205.6

207 187.75 168.5 149.25

130

SparkPoints: (4,673)
Fitness Minutes: (840)
Posts: 128
9/14/11 8:01 P

I can't help with the picky eating part but I can sure help with the motivation part. I lack motivation also. However, I finally am getting into a routine. That's kinda how you have to help with the motivation. I don't want to go to the gym every night but so far, I've gone last Thursday and Friday, Monday and Tuesday of this week also. Mondays I just wear my gym shorts and a t-shirt so right after my class, I just get it over with. It helps that the gym is on the same road as where I live so I can't miss it unless I want to go the long way home.

So if after your schooling is done, you have an hour window, go do something! Even if its walking! I've lost 12 pounds just by walking 2 miles every day. Of course you have to eat right and also do some other work outs. It helps me by doing the workouts on this website, that way I don't have to go to the gym. I can just do it from the safety and security of my own house :)

SparkPoints: (173)
Fitness Minutes: (0)
Posts: 3
9/14/11 4:14 P

Hey All,
I recently joined Spark after hearing about it in my nutrition class. My name is Jacobi and I am 19 years old and a sophomore in college. I would not classify myself as obese, just would like to lose a little weight and get back into shape. I have come across a few problems that I was hoping some of you could help me with. My first problem is motivation. Between school, work, and caring for animals at our farm I don't have a lot of extra motivation to work out. My next problem is that I am sort of a picky eater. There are many food/meals on Spark that I don't care for. If any of you guys have the time to reply that would be great. I am hoping to meet some people that struggle with the same things i do that can maybe help me! Thanks Again, Jacobi