Body for Life Forum Message by Agent 69 (566 posts) at 08:23 AM
YEP it's official
weight lost 3 lbs.
lost .6% BF
lost 1/4" off waist
lost 1/4" off hips
lost 1/4" off thighs
gained (about) 1/4" on bicep
it was a very good week!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (406 posts) at 08:27 AM
Woo Hoo! Great job!
Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1080 posts) at 08:36 AM
Way to go!!!!!! great job! Wohooooo! Keep up the hard work!
-T
Body for Life Forum Message by Agent 69 (566 posts) at 09:12 AM
you guys are great.....thanks so much!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by pk-rn (42 posts) at 09:12 AM
I am so pumped this morning because I woke up and didn't feel like doing my cardio. I layed there a while and went back and forth about it. Finally, I remembered a quote I heard "Commitment means sticking with it even when you don't feel like it". So, I dressed, put on my Nikes and down I went and had an awesome run!!! I listened to a song by Leann Rimes called Suddenly. It really fired me up. She sings about being in this fight alone and how it is up to her to make it. I really related to that because BFL challenges us all personally..no one else can do it for us. The feeling I have now is so much more positive and healthy than the self loathing and guilt I would have had if I had decided to stay in bed. I WILL FINISH THIS CHALLENGE!
Have a great day everyone.
Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1080 posts) at 09:24 AM
Great accomplishment! I have had some of my best cardio workouts with a reluctant start as well! Congrats on your accomplishment! Keep going strong!
Body for Life Forum Message by cfingram (1387 posts) at 09:41 AM
Alright Folks, Ms. Carole is ready to get going again!! WAHOOOO!!!! I'm downloading new songs, loading into my MP3 player and I'll be ready to get started again on Monday ! WAHOO!!!
I'm still battling fatigue but hey, I can suck it up right?!? I'm going to be a mommy again!
Body for Life Forum Message by cfingram (1387 posts) at 09:42 AM
Alright Folks, Ms. Carole is ready to get going again!! WAHOOOO!!!! I'm downloading new songs, loading into my MP3 player and I'll be ready to get started again on Monday ! WAHOO!!!
I'm still battling fatigue but hey, I can suck it up right?!? I'm going to be a mommy again!
Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1080 posts) at 09:49 AM
Yeaaaaa! Go Carole now take it easy too! No hard stuff! LOL...
Body for Life Forum Message by LincolnJenn (6 posts) at 09:53 AM
Has anyone else done "before" lab tests? I just got my before lab results and my triglycerides are 1293 (yes, really really high...this is inherited) and my cholesterol is 350.
Has anyone experienced a reduction in cholesterol or triglycerides from BFL? I could use some light at the end of my tunnel.
Jenn
Body for Life Forum Message by zooman (376 posts) at 03:33 PM
My tri's weren't an issue but I dropped my cholesterol 100 units after my first challenge, 260's to the 160's.
Body for Life Forum Message by Dick (4 posts) at 09:54 PM
Do you measure the biceps flexed or at rest. Please advise.
Thanks, Dick
Body for Life Forum Message by GKK1983 (2 posts) at 07:38 AM
ocpanther65 said:
Creatine has been shown to increase strength, HMB aids in muscle recovery so Betagen is great to take right before and right after a work out.
The Betagen instructions are 3x daily...obviously it will last longer if you only take it before and after a workout...which will produce the best results. Or should I take it before and after my workout (I workout between 0600 and 0700) and then again sometime in the afternoon?
Body for Life Forum Message by TJ (597 posts) at 12:34 PM
I just tried to make reservations for my wife and myself but the lady that is handling the BFL Cruise is out of the office till Monday. So, if all goes well and we can get two tickets, we’ll see y’all there!
Body for Life Forum Message by Hot Body (520 posts) at 12:37 PM
That's great, TJ! You def have reason to celebrate yourself!
Body for Life Forum Message by Udenia (2157 posts) at 12:50 PM
Ok got my original roommate back! So I have put my deposit down and I am going! I am so excited to be going on a cruise and hopefully I can make it to the 2007 BFL cruise as well but we will see, I will be retiring from the US Navy that year.... But you never know! I will see all of you there!
Body for Life Forum Message by Fiona Oceangirl (51 posts) at 12:54 PM
Sniff, sniff, sob, sob.......
Me on the lonely planet, cant even enter the competition to the Cruise....
You guys, have some fun for me....
Sniff, sob, sniff, ..........
Body for Life Forum Message by gonnabeahottie (24 posts) at 08:43 AM
WOW zooman a 200 gallon coral reef tank.. my fantasy... I think I'm drooling.....
Body for Life Forum Message by LOVE4KIDS (38 posts) at 08:03 AM
I am just loving the fact there are so many hockey loving people here. Can't wait for the Olympics! Karyn
Body for Life Forum Message by Persephone (465 posts) at 06:09 AM
Happy Birthday!!
Beter late than never!!
Love,
Pers
Body for Life Forum Message by vonkarolinas (91 posts) at 01:41 AM
Thanks for the suggestions, well suggestion. I found a site with several versions of the email.
Carrots and broccoli? Now that is funny. Is that like the legend about vampires having to stop and untie every knot in a rope? The little ghost girl has to stop and chop and dice all the vegetables?
Body for Life Forum Message by Gtnskinee (26 posts) at 09:08 PM
What happened to the chat? Nobody showed up.
Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1080 posts) at 09:10 PM
It was last night ;-)
Body for Life Forum Message by Gtnskinee (26 posts) at 09:11 PM
HOLY COW! I lost a whole day!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (248 posts) at 12:21 AM
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
Body for Life Forum Message by ~Lala~ (716 posts) at 12:47 AM
OMG Tooo funny!! Now where's Daang Girl??!
LOL! she'll LOVE this!
I'm back in "Dang" size world again myself..:(
Looking forward to being back to "Can't complain" in 12 weeks! ;)
Thanks! :)
Body for Life Forum Message by Flower (2184 posts) at 03:45 AM
They didn't put my category in - Almost Barely
Body for Life Forum Message by shkelly (178 posts) at 09:15 AM
LOL!!!!! I copied and sent it to all my girlfriends!! Thanks for the laugh!! I'm split between two catagories though....(D)(H)DANG! I've fallen and I can't get up!!!
Shelly =)
Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1080 posts) at 09:18 AM
LMAO I am a B on my way to an A lol waaaahhhhhh!
Body for Life Forum Message by Agent 69 (566 posts) at 09:20 AM
OMG
I laughed so lound I scared my co-worker
then I had to read it to her---she just about fell out of her chair
Body for Life Forum Message by gonnabeahottie (24 posts) at 09:07 AM
I keep an ongoing Yahoo blog on their 360 site. It keeps my motivation going!! I'm curious if anyone else has a 360 blog going. I'd love to see some other Body For Lifer's blogs.
Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1080 posts) at 09:26 AM
I don't have a 360 but I have my web-site
www.teresamiranda.com
or you can click on the little house icon lol to take you there.
Body for Life Forum Message by Go4steffie (798 posts) at 02:13 PM
I have a blog at www.go4steffies.blogspot.com
Body for Life Forum Message by SweetEmotion (1137 posts) at 03:10 PM
Mine is... http://thisonework.blogspot.com/
I have another related to FITNESS ONLY tracking my exercises that I am going to start this week. The one above is fitness/life/all kinds of stuff.
Lori
Body for Life Forum Message by Daaang Girl (33 posts) at 09:31 PM
OK, I did it and it felt good. I was a little nervous at first, I didn't know what to say when it was all over, but I'm not ashamed. Yes people, I blogged.
You can expect the Lords of the Cyberworld to post "lot full" signs very soon due to my insatiable need to share every thought floating around in my head with the entire free world... and parts of communist China.
Body for Life Forum Message by DreamCatcher (690 posts) at 10:52 AM
Happy Birthday to you, happy birthday to you...happy birthday dear Tonya....Happy Birthday to you!
I hope you have a fabulous birthday! Enjoy!
Jennifer
Body for Life Forum Message by amylame (38 posts) at 10:58 AM
Happy birthday, partner!
What do you have planned?
Body for Life Forum Message by SportyGirl (112 posts) at 11:59 AM
Happy birthday!!! Hope you have an awesome day!
Body for Life Forum Message by crone (545 posts) at 12:01 PM
Happy B-day!
Body for Life Forum Message by shibox (12 posts) at 12:39 PM
Happy birthday!! Enjoy your free day... and I look forward to commiserating with you tomorrow when everyone else has their free days :)
Body for Life Forum Message by tonee (153 posts) at 12:53 PM
Thank you guys. My kids are going away overnight, and while the children are away my hubby and I will play. We're gonna enjoy a night out and then.......
Back to the basics tomorrow. We'll make it shibox, tomorrow I'm gonna do the cardio from hell(I have to burn off anything I ingest today).
Love ya'll Tonya
Body for Life Forum Message by kewlmum5 (204 posts) at 01:00 AM
OK, I need help too. I am looking at the Proform crossover elliptical/strength trainer. its an elliptical that also converts to a strength trainer with pullies and what have you. Anyone hear do of it or have a review on it? Thanks.
Body for Life Forum Message by Fiona Oceangirl (51 posts) at 01:02 PM
I have this very often. Add the protein powder to the milk and sweeten with spenda...yummy.
Body for Life Forum Message by Lese (8 posts) at 01:11 PM
I cook the oatmeal as directed then add the protien powder. I used to like to add a little milk but don't want the added calories. If it is too dry I add a little more water. This receipe makes eating protien in the AM a lot easier for me! I don't see why you can't precook the oatmeal then add the powder when you are ready to eat it.
Body for Life Forum Message by Roe (18 posts) at 12:03 AM
I make some homemade chili... soo good, one of my favs, with lots of fine chopped onions!! ok, Im hungry
Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (248 posts) at 12:48 AM
i always look forward to flower's comments!! lmbo!
Body for Life Forum Message by Jennifer A (346 posts) at 12:53 AM
Just balance your popcorn with a QUALITY protein like a cottage cheese chaser...
Body for Life Forum Message by ~Lala~ (716 posts) at 01:15 AM
FLOWER!!!! geees !
gonnabe.. listen to Jennifer..she's a least being "helpful" ;)
Air popped is probably the best btw.. :)& watch you don't get carried away on the serving size if you wanna make it a proper "portion"
Body for Life Forum Message by Flower (2184 posts) at 08:19 AM
Well Lala my serving size is a bucket!!!! Last weekend we saw Chronicles of Narnia and SHARED the bottomless bucket. What really peeved me off was the butter stains I got on my pants!
Body for Life Forum Message by gonnabeahottie (24 posts) at 08:37 AM
Ya see, you gotta put napkins under the bucket or bag so you don't get butter on you! :)
In the original question, I wasn't referring really to movie popcorn, but more to just plain popcorn made at home, no butter, with a little salt. I'll save the movie popcorn for free day!
Body for Life Forum Message by Flower (2184 posts) at 05:00 PM
Okay enough B.S.; seriously going back to your original question - I would go with Agent69's response. Besides what she said, there is really absolutely no nutrient content to corn or popped corn - like zilch it is virtually empty carbs/calories (mind you I think the calorie count isn't too high is it?). You could do much much better for a carb than that. JMO
Body for Life Forum Message by michiganmike (228 posts) at 06:13 PM
The biggest problem with popcorn is that it's kind of like oatmeal or toast--it just doesn't have any SEX APPEAL without all the stuff you have to put on it to make it taste like anything! Whenever I say "I'd love to have a handful of popcorn right now" what I really mean is that I'd like to dive into one of those tubs of it, and suck all the butter out of the bottom of it, then run out to the snack bar to get a huge drink and some chocolate covered raisins!
Body for Life Forum Message by Flower (2184 posts) at 06:19 PM
I was running out to the snack bar with you mike - but I fought you to be first in line and got peanut M&M's instead. Oh yeah, and more popcorn too.
Body for Life Forum Message by Can'tStopMe (492 posts) at 06:53 PM
mmmmmmm raisenettes
Body for Life Forum Message by Can'tStopMe (492 posts) at 06:54 PM
mmmmmmm peanut M&M's
Body for Life Forum Message by Can'tStopMe (492 posts) at 06:54 PM
mmmmmmmm butter
Body for Life Forum Message by Can'tStopMe (492 posts) at 06:54 PM
What was the question again????
Body for Life Forum Message by Jennifer A (346 posts) at 07:06 PM
2cups of popcorn + 1/2cup of 1%cottage cheese is 162cal
17.27g of protein 69.08cal 43%
3.2g of fat 28.8cal 18%
15.34g of carbs 61.36cal 39%
Body for Life Forum Message by jvkooy (2 posts) at 01:27 PM
I've tried the lime one with diet sprite....its really good, I'm not a big rum drinker but I wanted to have something at a party we went to so I brought that along...It was awesome!
Body for Life Forum Message by Dana D (540 posts) at 01:40 PM
Im not sure who posted about this before but its stuck in my mind:
It takes your body THREE DAYS to fully recover (physically) from alcohol!! Thats why Ive vowed-NO alcohol of any kind till June on the cruise..but then-ITS ONNNNNNNN!!!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by Buffy-the-FatLayer-Slayer (53 posts) at 02:20 PM
Now I'm going to eat what I want AND get drunk on my free days!
Body for Life Forum Message by chuckdiesel99 (869 posts) at 02:25 PM
My thoughts...
If it is half the calories then its at least half the amount of alcohol. I say at least because the flavors might be comming from sugar (4 calories per gram) Alcohol is 7 calories per gram. So, youre going to need to drink at least 2 of these to get as "happy" as before. IF they do contain sugar then they are not as "good" for you as your Rum and diet coke.
Body for Life Forum Message by Forest Tech (111 posts) at 02:26 PM
I just looked at the website.. and it has 18% alc by vol.. so wouldn't you have to drink twice as much to get the same effect as drinking regular hard alcy? So if you are drinking two of those drinks for every one regular (both mixed with no calorie mix) you are getting the same calories are you not??
Body for Life Forum Message by Forest Tech (111 posts) at 02:32 PM
yea... what chuckdiesel said.. (that post wasn't there when I wrote mine ;))
Body for Life Forum Message by Nicabod (49 posts) at 04:35 PM
That's true that it has half the alcohol, and if I were planning to go out and get sloshed, then I'd just drink the real thing. But, since that's NOT what I'm planning to do this time, then I'll drink the light--that way, I can still drink all night and not get blitzed. Also, the light is flavored with sucralose (like in Splenda), not with sugar.
I figure I'll be drinking the same number of drinks either way, so I'll stick with the light stuff this time.
However, for other times, the party's on, and I'll drink the real deal.
Body for Life Forum Message by Flower (2184 posts) at 05:04 PM
I was just at the liquor store and quickly glanced. We're in Canada so it may be different. All they had was Peach and from what I saw it said 50% less calories but the same amount of alcohol whatever that is since I didn't look. But only Peach!!!!
I just re-read the original post. I looked at the Coolers; what you're actually talking about is straight rum so I don't even know if we have it. Oh well....
Body for Life Forum Message by Forest Tech (111 posts) at 05:20 PM
yea I am thinking it doesn't even matter seeing as we probably don't even have it here anyway.. Especially where I am anyway. I find Mike's Hard Lite Lemonade the best. It has 78 cals a bottle. Not too bad. I think it is the healthiest yet.. other than white rum and diet pop.
Body for Life Forum Message by Roe (18 posts) at 12:09 AM
I love hambugars, so here is one when you really got have it!
Turkey patty lean of course
Chopped mushrooms, tomotoes, and 2T. low fat feta,and chopped onions (all fine chopped)
saute in pan with pam and a drizzle of olive oil
add 1T. bbq sauce and 2t. worch. sauce
serve on toasted whole wheat bun with shredded fine lettuce and top with mushroom topping !!!
Ok, can I get an AWWWYEahHHHh, ROE!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by Roe (18 posts) at 12:09 AM
ohhh, cook the patty separate of course, sorry everyone, little tired!
Body for Life Forum Message by fit2006 (9 posts) at 07:04 AM
Well, my first free day is coming up this Sunday and I'm afraid I'm going to lose it! I am really craving some french fries, the boardwalk style cooked in peanut oil. Can I really eat this? I have been doing so well this week!
What do most people do on their free day?
Thanks!
Body for Life Forum Message by tigermuscle (374 posts) at 07:16 AM
first off..I dont mean to alarm you, but you have a smiley face plastered on you!!! Im just letting you know in case werent aware ;) LOL
free day is something that will be debated in BFL land for years! What a lot of people end up doing is eating clean on their free day, and then indulge in one satisfying free MEAL.
another tip Ive heard passed around is if you feel tempted during the week, put the unauthorized food in a zip lock bag, place it in the freezer, and then take it out on free day to see if you still really want it. chances are you may not.
either way, make sure you rest your body on your free day..its important to do that.
I hope that helps!
Body for Life Forum Message by BFL bride to be (19 posts) at 07:41 AM
Hi- in the past I've gone crazy on free day, and all it did was set me up for feeling horrible about myself (despite it being "free" day and supposedly ok)and gave me a really upset stomach. This challenge I plan to eat things on free day that are still nutritionally sound, but just different than what I normally eat. Things like pancakes, popcorn, chicken noodle soup, pasta, chicken wings with BBQ sauce, etc. However, I think that its important to eat things on free day that you REALLY want. If you want those french fries, have them, but have a smaller portion and try to have a protein source with them if you can.
Body for Life Forum Message by Hot Body (520 posts) at 07:51 AM
In my first Challenge, it was important to me to know that I had a day in which I could eat in indulgent foods. My Saturday mornings were spent in the neighborhood cafe, in front of a plate of chocolate chip waffles and a large cup of whole milk lattes. Then at night, since I love Asian foods, I'd have something like a plate of Pad Thai. I still lost plenty and got down to my lowest weight in a long, long time.
After spending my Saturdays eating "off kilter," I usually paid for it with major digestive problems. Yuck! To try to work out on an upset stomach is no fun. For this Challenge, I'm going to eat clean but just bump up the calories a bit. Right now, for example, I'm headed out for a skim milk latte and a power bagel with salmon and FF cream cheese. Then I'll eat clean the rest of the day.
In getting serious about losing body fat, what I've gathered from reading a bunch of different sources is that you need to shake up your caloric intake from time to time. Don't always eat low calories...bump it up once in a while to keep your body from settling into a lower metabolic rate. (And the more experienced people on here might correct or refine what I've just said.) The other key thing to having a Free meal day is that, when you are just getting started, 12 weeks might seem like a lot to go without what you've been eating for years beforehand. So just go ahead eat that crap...seriously!...get it out of your system...see what your body has to say when it's getting healthier and giving you honest feedback on unhealthy eating...your mind will catch up and soon you will actually sneer at those french fries.
Body for Life Forum Message by scotfarcus (22 posts) at 07:59 AM
I have one free meal, and I had it last night...Chowed on Mexican food and man oh man, was I in pain... My body hated me all night long! I woke up okay but argggg... I just eat like normal and have one splurge meal.
Body for Life Forum Message by Agent 69 (566 posts) at 08:17 AM
HotBody...I too am a Waffle lover...that's my Sunday morning breakfast staple.
I stick with TWO free meals on free day rather than a whole day of eating everything in sight.....I think this is what alot of people here have come to do.
Along my way thru my first challenge I fell in love with Multi-Grain waffles (and am actually PISSED off if they tell me their OUT of the Multi-grain),
I have been a fan of sugar free syrup as well.....this has come to help me a great deal on FREE day. So, now I can have my waffles and my bacon at breakfast on Sunday's......YES REAL BACON :)
Body for Life Forum Message by Persephone (465 posts) at 08:18 AM
Hi--
And congratulations for getting through your first week!
There's some good advice above but I thought I might submit MHO too.
For the first couple of weeks of my first challenge, I would really eat whatever I wanted. But that gets old really quickly--and it's true, your stomach can't handle your old diet the way it used to.
On free days, what I enjoy most is not weighing everything and being able to eat when I want. I might have a couple of slices of toast with butter if I fancy it or Yorkshire puddings with my dinner or a couple of slices of pizza--but I find my stomach has shrunk so I really can't "pig out" anymore.
The other thing is, there is a BFL recipe alternative for just about everything. Even on free days, I try to think about "damage limitation."
One thing that stands out in my mind is the fried food and alcohol thing. One or the other is pretty bad. The two together are deadly. Tom Venuto reckons it can take DAYS to undo the damage of say an order of french fries washed down with a couple of beers. So, I resolved to have one OR the other on free day last challenge. This challenge, I resolved to have neither, not even on free days.
Again it's all MHO. As the challenge progresses, you'll get to know what your body likes, you'll make tweaks here and there. I would advise keeping a journal. A lot of us "blog" so we can keep track of how we're feeling (which may not always be relevant to this forum). It just helps to have a written record sometimes.
Wishing you the very best,
Persephone
Body for Life Forum Message by gonnabeahottie (24 posts) at 08:31 AM
I scheduled my free day for Saturdays this challenge, with the thought that if I wanted to go out dancing & drinking, I could do that. I'm only in the end of week 1, but before starting it was normal for me to come in and have a beer every night, and I also had 1-2 sodas each day, and a very fattening white mocha cappucino from Starbucks - every day! After only one week of no Starbucks, no sodas, and no beer, I find myself on free day today and I doubt I'll want any of them! I've been wanting them all week and granted, it's still early today, but I just can't see myself having any one of those things today.
I am starting my morning out with waffles, with some fat-free imitation butter, some syrup, and a big glass of skim milk. We haven't gotten to the point of buying the sugar free syrup yet, but I'm anxious to get some and try it. And I haven't cooked any BFL breakfasts for my first week either. I have stuck with Myoplex for breakfast and I keep feeling like something is missing. So tomorrow, I'm going to try a breakfast recipe.
Lunch today will be KFC! I love KFC and it the main staple of every free day for me. I'm going to take Persephone's advice though, and if I have KFC for lunch, I won't drink any beer tonight. I think that is good advice to not combine fried food AND alcohol because they are both so hard on your body. I have always stayed away from most fast food restaurants. The only fast food places you'll find me on free day will be KFC or ChickFilA for their breakfast burritos.. yum.
Some I've been pondering about free day is the lack of activity. I usually houseclean on weekends, and I'll do that, which is some activity, but I'm thinking that on free day I still want to do some activity. Something really simple, like a leaisurely walk with my dogs, just enough to stretch my legs.
Body for Life Forum Message by fit2006 (9 posts) at 08:38 AM
Thanks so much for ALL the advice.
I was really thinking about doing pretty badly with the "fried" foods partly because I was going to watch my Pittsburgh Steelers kick some Cincinati butt tomorrow at a local bar. This was going to be a reward for me, but maybe I will see if some friends will come over to my place instead. This will limit the temptation.
I think I will try to just limit to two Free meals (Breakfast & Lunch) and I won't include the french fries! There are other things I like that aren't so bad, I think.
Oh, the reason I have the smiley face is because I am too embarrassed to show my face with my body looking like this! Hopefully I can reveal it in 12 weeks!!
At any rate, THANKS again! This forum is just the motivation I need. I love logging on. It's getting a bit addictive ;)
Have a GREAT day everyone!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by gonnabeahottie (24 posts) at 08:39 AM
Fit - I'm addicted too!! Here it is on my Free Day and what am I doing? ..Sitting here on the bfl tracker forums getting my daily morning motivation :)
Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (406 posts) at 08:45 AM
For your first free day, eat everything you want, especially if you've wanted it all week! You will find though that you won't want as much of it, and you might even feel a little sick from it.... like Bill says in EFL, it creates an aversion effect.... eventually you may not even want to eat like that anymore. But you do need free day to boost your metabolism and give you a break.
Body for Life Forum Message by Hot Body (520 posts) at 12:51 PM
Fit2006, I LOVE your website! Did you design it yourself?
Body for Life Forum Message by WorkInProgress (149 posts) at 01:16 PM
if you're really craving them, have them. warning though, watch how crazy you go on your first free day. I love sweet stuff, pancakes, chocolate etc etc - but on my very first free day ate so much sugar I literally made myself sick.
So, have them, enjoy them and don't feel guilty about it - just don't have too many!
Body for Life Forum Message by Emeril (3 posts) at 01:43 PM
Yeah, I had my first "free night" last night...I ate right all day but had 5 Miller Lights...After about 3 my stomach was really rolling, and it was upset the whole night...
Emeril
Body for Life Forum Message by wannabegreat (8 posts) at 01:48 PM
Doesn't free day have its metabolic purpose? I thought that it was another way to keep your body from going into starvation mode, as well as, fill a psychological need to eat what you crave. If your body is surprised sometimes by the change in calorie source isn't that supposed to help keep the metabolism from slowing? (I know that workouts keep things rev'd up too.) If you don't take those free days could that actually set you back?
Body for Life Forum Message by AirSpace (102 posts) at 02:15 PM
I think everyone's reactions to free day and psychological and physical needs are different... you can learn a lot from the experiences other people have had, but it will probably take a little experimenting to know what works best for you. A couple of key things to remember is that if you keep your calorie level consistently low, your metabolism can slow down because your body prepares itself to go into starvation mode. It's important to have some higher-calorie days in there to keep that from happening, BUT if you don't feel like indulging in junk it can be a good thing to just eat more of your approved foods. Also, if you are finding that cravings are keeping you from staying on plan during the week... make sure to satisfy them on free day! If you feel like you are depriving yourself, you end up in self-sabotage mode.
Body for Life Forum Message by wannabegreat (8 posts) at 02:24 PM
Makes sense. I don't want undo any of my hard work by over indulging, but I think I can keep it under control. The "Force" is strong with me. (for the moment) Thanks.
Body for Life Forum Message by Roe (18 posts) at 02:28 PM
OK!! I sorry but I have to say something.
I keep hearing all the bfl'ers feeling guilty eating cookies, pizza and drinking Coke!!!
Let loose a little
Mr. Phillips designed the free day so you want be as tempted within the 6 days your training hard!!
I just read a lady doing cardio, because she was having pizza on her free day!!! Come on...
Let's not misleda the newbies. I mean it is free do eat whatever you want when you want it!
We should feel guilty hitting our 10's, if some are going to feel guilty eating pizza, becuase part of the PROGRAM INCLUDES A DAY TO EAT WHATEVER THE HECK YOU WANT!!!
Now go pig out!! I mean only if you want to.
I guess what I trying to say is, there really should be no guilt when it comes to the cheat day.
The prgram is design a specific way and the free day is incorpated into that!
Good luck people, and God bless
I know I m gong to get in trouble for this one, but I jsut had to say something1
Roe c2w1d7 ^------awww yeah cheat day baby!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by 1leanmom (4 posts) at 02:33 PM
one good thing about eating what you want on your free day is that it shocks your body...kinda like when you change up your workout...
free days can be helpful in getting our metabolism pumping faster...
:)
Body for Life Forum Message by nola (39 posts) at 02:54 PM
I for one am LOOKING FORWARD to my free day. I'm all for participating in this science experiment that lets me eat cookies on Sunday!
Body for Life Forum Message by scotfarcus (22 posts) at 03:43 PM
YAAAAAHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Body for Life Forum Message by keaton7655 (2 posts) at 03:56 PM
Same goes here!
Body for Life Forum Message by TaraC29 (112 posts) at 03:57 PM
I always do cardio on my free day but that is just because there is a class at the gym I like to take. I love going to the gym on Saturdays (my free day) because it isn't very crowded and I can get in a little extra workout. I do not feel one bit guilty about my free day though...eat whatever I want in LARGE amounts! I'm really enjoying it today....mmmmmm mmmmm good! LOL
Body for Life Forum Message by michiganmike (228 posts) at 04:08 PM
Interesting post. SO are you saying, eat all you can, are do what you want? Or just not feel guilty? It's a complex thing, free day, and some people are just constitutionally incapable of handling it in a reasonable fashion. For them, BFL is more than just a fat-loss diet, it's a lifeline to try to straighten out their out-of-control behavior with food. That's why, for them, free day is more of a dread than an eagerly anticipated event!
Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (406 posts) at 04:10 PM
I couldn't agree more.... I know its a hotly debated topic, but in both BFL and EFL Bill says eat whatever you want. That is different for everyone. I dont eat sweets on free day coz I dont like them.... but I go hog wild on CHEESE and BEER!!!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by Nicabod (49 posts) at 04:30 PM
My free day for workouts and my free day for eating don't usually fall on the same day. I don't designate a specific day of the week as "free day" every week. I look at what we've got going on that week and plan accordingly. And if I slip up early in the week, I call THAT my free day and don't get another. That way, I never cheat! Works great for me.
Body for Life Forum Message by eSteve (153 posts) at 05:03 PM
Just something to note...
Most BFL Champions that I have met do not pig out on free days. They eat something they enjoy, very rarely to excess...
Do what works best for you!
Body for Life Forum Message by JuanE (5 posts) at 05:22 PM
Roe, great point!! This is my second challenge. Free days are part of the program and I always indulge myself on those days. Do not feel guilty especially if you are following the program during the week. As time goes on, you will notice that you cannot indulge yourself like you did the first couple of weeks. That is OK, just satisfy the cravings!!
Double cheeseburger with fries for me tommorrow!!
Body for Life Forum Message by Robin78745 (18 posts) at 05:29 PM
Michiganmike, I think hussman.org has some great things to say about how to handle your free day: how if you really overload your body with way to many calories, it takes it too long to catch up and metabolize the thousands of calories, so you end up overloading into your days on. Yet, he still stresses how important it is to have one for the same reasons bill does (depriving oneself, metabolic reasons)
One guy I know who is on BFL was very vehement about not allowing a free day at all. He made a truly amazing transformation, but after about a year, he started having cravings to the degree that he was dreaming about eating chocolate...all the time. I think that had a lot to do with the fact that he denied himself too much.
I myself like a free "evening"...becuase I want one evening where I don't think about calories, or fat, or sugar, or alcohol, at *all*. I think an entire day of this probably would put me in the category of too many calories..
Body for Life Forum Message by Flower (2184 posts) at 05:48 PM
Free day sucks!
Really, psychologically I could write a book about this. Its gratifying to be sure, its easy to go over board, its easy for it to linger past a meal or a day, it gives you something to look forward to, its rewarding, its fulfilling, it causes indigestion, it causes bloating & water retention, if you don't indulge your results will be nothing short of phenomenal, once you start seeing this kind of results you're motivation will sky-rocket thus producing even more phenomenal results, on & on & on..... For crying out loud - there's no right answer no matter how you look at it.
Robin78745 - what you said about the chocolate is so VERY INTERESTING to me. I've never ever craved chocolate all my life; about 6 - 8 months into BFL the chocolate cravings I had were overwhelming and I mean to the point where I could pass up anything but many many times I caved on the chocolate. The cravings were stronger than I even would have imagined. The last couple of months I've wavered a bit with the eating and I may eat chocolate but I don't have those same mind altering cravings. Very interesting indeed.
Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1080 posts) at 05:55 PM
Bahahaha Free Day So Rules for me right now because I can't have one! The day it comes around I usually loathe it! Big time. BUT I would have not learned that had I not gone all out on my first few freedays. Though you have to learn it first before you will understand it. I think this is why Bill says eat a whole apple pie if you want to. Cause after eating healthy and clean your body rejects it like poison. And you have the thing I have affectionately named The Food Hangover. Yes, I too Tracey could write a book as well on this subject LOL.
Robin: Hahaha when I have has restricted dieting I have had those dreams! OMG that is too funny! I mean straight up eating chocolate. Too funny!
Body for Life Forum Message by michiganmike (228 posts) at 06:10 PM
You know, the flesh and the mind together are a powerful combination--for both good and for destruction. When I got sober in late 1983, I thought I would be over the "cravings" for alcohol in the same way I had beaten smoking. But, the longer I went, no matter how well I worked the program, the harder it was to avoid thinking about it or even dreaming about it. I had many dreams where I was drinking. One time I was in L.A. for a meeting of a sobriety group board of directors, and took a break to walk down the street. As I was passing this little bar, with the door open and the juke box playing, I had an overpowering urge to go in there and order a drink--after 12 years of sobriety! I even remember thinking "no one would ever know!" Yeah, right, I'm out there for a meeting with a bunch of recovering alcoholics--I'm going back to that meeting in a few minutes, and no one would ever know? My point here is that food and its connections with our mind can really bring back some old habits, ideas and thoughts. I think precisely that happens when the folks with the eating disorders head into free day. Before it's over, they have the old head in the toilet, no matter how many times they've said that the last time was the last time! This is a great discussion, by the way--not mine--your posts. Thanks everyone.
Body for Life Forum Message by Flower (2184 posts) at 06:24 PM
Well that little blurb up there michiganmike is quite "sobering". I think you're right on target. I also think you've quite a bit to offer this board in terms of rationalizing choices and I'll be awaiting you're input.
Body for Life Forum Message by SportyGirl (112 posts) at 07:04 PM
It's really good to read your comments michiganmike. I don't have an eating disorder, but think I am one of those people who struggle with free day. I cannot even begin to count the number of challenges I've started that ended on day 7 - yip, free day. I'm overcoming this now, but it's been a struggle.
Having said that I have also ended challenges because the idea of 84 days without anything unauthorised is just too daunting, so "I'll just get all this bad eating out of my system this week and start next Monday".
It's amazing the things I've been able to justify to myself if I really put my mind to it :-)
Russell Pendegrass has some really interesting things to say re: free day in his blog on the BFL site. And some really interesting photos!
Check out http://www.bodyforlife.com/community/blog.asp?author=rpendergrass&apL=5
Take a look at his before & after pics, then checkout the photos in the link on that page.
But note that his wasn't a free "eat all you want day" - it was a planned day including some non-authorised foods.
Body for Life Forum Message by mrhardbody (15 posts) at 07:36 PM
I'm agreeing with Roe on this. If you have been hitting all your 10's for ubwo/lbwo and aerobics, have written out all your meals and your actuals are the same as your planned, drank all your water, you have earned your free day. I have spoken with some people who dont have a 100% free day, but they said they didnt have a 100% planned to actual week. If you cheat a couple of times during the week, eat stuff you didnt plan, miss a workout or two, you know a free day was not earned. I make a list of all the items I thought about during the week..Chinese food, pizza, and chocolate covered almost anything :)..then I look at that list, and if I still want it, I'll eat it on my free day. But I am also writing out my workout and writing out my 6 meals for the next day. That keeps everything in perspective. And remember, it is a free day, not free days. It is what we do the majority of the time that makes us, not what we do occasionally.When you look at a persons before /after pics..and then you see them starting another challenge and they dont look anywhere near their after pic, trust me, it wasnt just ONE free day inbetween challenges...and they, like me, would have to admit that...Best in health.Bj
Body for Life Forum Message by SuzyQ (7 posts) at 08:04 PM
Just wanted to add that I did the challenge before two years ago and took whole "free days" but what works best for me is one or two free meals during the week. I typically eat my free meal on Saturday night and stay out of the gym on Sundays.
The main reason is because when I don't eat clean, I don't want to exercise (major food hangovers!)
Eating anything I want on Saturday allows me to get over the food hangover on Sunday, clean out my system and be ready to hit the gym on Monday.
Body for Life Forum Message by Roe (18 posts) at 08:17 PM
WOW!! THANK YOU FOR THE GREAT POSTS.
i have learned, after my final day, I will post my blog, if I have the chance to, and state the truth about cheat days!!
however, that is what worked for me!
i am really finding a balnace here!
this is really a great program!!
Roe
Body for Life Forum Message by hogken (15 posts) at 09:33 PM
eventually your body will not desire the free day eating and you will keep eating clean or at least thats what happens 2 me
Body for Life Forum Message by michaeld925 (30 posts) at 02:50 PM
Has anyone ever used E-Diet.com in regards to the Eating for Life section, was thinking of signing up for it to add more structure to my Body for Life plan. Even to the point of starting out all over at week one(On week 8 and very frustrated)Looking for some feed back. Thank You.
Body for Life Forum Message by AirSpace (102 posts) at 03:01 PM
I used to use the eDiets program and it can be really helpful to have those weekly meal plans and grocery lists all prepared for you and ready to go. BUT, I would warn you that the eDiets recipes tend to be a little high in carbs (IMHO). They are usually OK with a little adjustment, but if you follow their plan as-is, you may not be experiencing the full potential of the BFL plan.
Body for Life Forum Message by TaraC29 (112 posts) at 04:02 PM
Hey Michael, I looked at your profile and it hadn't been updated. We started about the same time. What is frustrating you? Are you keeping a food and workout log to see what you've been doing that you might need to change?
I don't know anything about E-Diets but I'd say if all they are going to do is make up meal plans for you then YOU would still have to eat what they tell you to and YOU would still have to make all your workouts. If you think it would motivated you then go for it but personally I get PLENTY of motivation around this place!
Good luck...and update your profile! ;)
Body for Life Forum Message by michaeld925 (30 posts) at 04:56 PM
Tara,
I am tracking my food on fitday.com. Have a bad day here or there, but am usually on when it comes to portion control etc.... I havent updated because of little change in measurements and or weight, had a slight drop in BMI. Will update if I restart. But barring that...in a month when this challenge is over. Its been suggested that its just a plateau Ive reached, so it its a mater of working through it. I promise I will update my profile one way or another :). Thanks for feed back. ;)
Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (248 posts) at 12:45 AM
You know you've had a good LBWO when you cant get out of the darn gym parking lot because you cant keep your foot on the clutch long enough to switch gears!!
Body for Life Forum Message by Runningsouthernstyle (28 posts) at 04:23 AM
ahhh the joys of my new lifestyle. My car has no power steering so turning is become quit a chore....
Body for Life Forum Message by wannabegreat (8 posts) at 01:27 PM
I'm laughing so hard at these posts. Its crazy what you have to do in order to move after these workouts. My husband bought me a bicycle a few days ago and my quads where already hammered from a LBWO the day before and then I decided I'd ride my bike for my cardio. I did fine till I got to our street where there's the tiniest of hills. I had to put it in the 1st gear and pedal and pedal and pedal and I was only going fast enough not to tip over. I bet that was the funniest thing to see from someone elses point of view. Some size 14 mama pedaling her a** off and gettin' no where really really fast. But I definitely got a good workout and well as a laugh.
Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (248 posts) at 04:11 PM
Question:
Just finished my cardio on the elliptical. Had a great workout!
However, I have had a runny nose the last few days. Today, during my workout, It was killing me, between my eyes. It is very unseasonably warm here for Jan (65+ degrees). Im wondering if it may be allergies or something? It really hurt while breathing heavy. Any suggestions?
thanks!
karen
Body for Life Forum Message by tinkerbell (331 posts) at 09:58 PM
As some of you may know I've been down with a groin pain that will not go away. The Dr. says I have a disc protruding and putting pressure on my sacral nerve. I did some research and I think I have something called Piriformis Syndrome, has anyone ever had this? If so PM me. Either way, I CANNOT do any running, I tried some this morning, it was pathetic. I did try the elliptical, and that didn't seem too bad. So now I have to switch my HIIT over to the elliptical and I'm looking for some examples of what you do for HIIT. I know there are 3 variables, resistance, strides per minute and level or grade. If you could give me some examples of what your workout looks like this would really help me to get started. I would also like to hear any advice you might have about switching. I'm looking for a challenging workout. Thank you so much for your replies, I really appreciate it.
Body for Life Forum Message by AngRoCamp (148 posts) at 11:11 PM
I've only been working out since I started challenge 1 back in September. So although my fitness level is light years ahead of what it was then, I'm not a runner at all, so I assume your physical capability is greater than mine when it comes to fitness. But this is what I do so you can get an idea and tweak for your own abilities :) For my 5 I just do level 1 at a moderate pace. For my 6 I move the resistance to level 4. For my 7 I move the resistance to level 7. For my 8 I move the resistance to level 10. For my 9 I move the resistance to level 13. Then on my next set I do the same increasing levels of resistance (from 4-13) but I increase my strides per minute just a bit (by working out to a faster song LOL... I don't pay close attention the the speed because some machines at the gym measure it in MPH and some measure it in strides per minute... it's hard to keep track). For my personal level 10 I usually increase resistance to 15 or 16 and just push as fast as I can. I rarely mess with the grade during my HIIT because it mostly just affects the way you work different muscle groups. At least that's been my experience.
Hope this made some sort of sense and is somehow helpful. ~Ang
Body for Life Forum Message by gp800mark (629 posts) at 07:08 AM
You are definitely a winner! Have fun!
Body for Life Forum Message by tigermuscle (374 posts) at 07:11 AM
No no no Cheryl, thank YOU!
Body for Life Forum Message by debbierossi (7 posts) at 07:16 AM
just wanted to say that 85% of my votes were for you Cheryl. I hope that all of you win something. each and everyone of you are deserving of a great prize
debbie
Body for Life Forum Message by Agent 69 (566 posts) at 08:08 AM
Cheryl,
We so admire you, and not only for your amazing physical transformation, but the courage you have shown in the last several years.
We wish you the very best, I do wish I could be in Denver, unfortunatly, it's just not going to be possible.
You are a true inspiration to everyone.
Body for Life Forum Message by JerryBraam.com (102 posts) at 10:38 AM
Cheryl,
Thanks for being you sweetie! Sea you at the EXPO!
Who else is joining us in Denver next week?!?
Jerry Braam
Body for Life Forum Message by PhatMom2006 (aka Bflmom2004) (1064 posts) at 10:49 AM
How did I miss this one?? Welcome Darla, I agree with everyone here, with Rod in your corner, you can't go wrong.
Hugs
Christie
Body for Life Forum Message by Daaang Girl (33 posts) at 10:51 AM
Welsome Darla! May 2006 be a year of health and happiness!
Body for Life Forum Message by SportyGirl (112 posts) at 11:49 AM
Welcome Darla, it's great to have you here!
Body for Life Forum Message by Tai-Kee (2401 posts) at 11:55 AM
Welcome Darla!
Now if I could only convince Matt. he just really doesn't care about it though even though he is very supportive of my efforts.
Body for Life Forum Message by Ngo Excuses (78 posts) at 08:43 PM
Welcome Darla...how AWESOME you decided to join us!
Denise
Body for Life Forum Message by hogken (15 posts) at 09:43 PM
welcome GO HOGS!
Body for Life Forum Message by sas (65 posts) at 11:12 AM
Hey Cerdes! You look awesome! By the way, recently I have been turned on to 'hair powder'!! It's awesome, bumble&bumble has it and you can also get it at Stila counters. The Stila one smells better ;-)
Body for Life Forum Message by sterling (2 posts) at 11:19 AM
I have a question for you all. Are you taking thermodynamix? I need some of the cleaning power you all have!
Heather
Body for Life Forum Message by David870 (13 posts) at 03:45 PM
Wow, sure hope all that housecleaning motivation starts kicking in to me, too! That'd be just great, I need to get better at it, myself.....
David
Body for Life Forum Message by justdoit (252 posts) at 04:11 PM
You know, when I opened this thread I was ready to completely agree! You see, everytime I am in a challenge full force, I do get a little crazy in the bedroom - but NOT CLEANING!!! I'm sure my husband would love a clean bedroom, but I don't hear him complaining about the craziness in the bedroom. He LOVES when I am in a challenge!!! I feel strong, healthy, and sexy when I am committed to my eating and working out. I am a better wife, mother, and teacher. It feels good and it carries over in to all parts of my life (even the bedroom).
I guess I better start cleaning now. I've wasted enough time NOT CLEANING!!!!
I hope I didn't offend, but the title of this thread did make me want to share:)
Body for Life Forum Message by rbsamy (384 posts) at 04:34 PM
Laughing. Yes. I have the cleaning itch as well. And YES>. I am taking thermoD. On my first challenge (which i did not use thermno) that was the first thing I noticed. I use to come home and veg in front of the TV in the evenings. I started cleaning and organizing like crazy!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by tcstone (681 posts) at 10:29 PM
Nope, I didn't.
I was just hoping maybe you knew something we didn't! :) Which I am sure you do. I like all new info. Anything I can get my hands on!
Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (248 posts) at 12:25 AM
They have to afford to pay the contestants somehow......rip off the general public!
great show, great idea, however, you shouldnt have to pay to enter!! how rude is that! wow. I can see if you wanna sign up, but forget it, BFL is the place to be!
Body for Life Forum Message by Young Guns (1569 posts) at 07:09 PM
sorry missed the last 3 posts. If you want more info please message me your email address.
Body for Life Forum Message by Young Guns (1569 posts) at 07:11 PM
UPDATE: This is going awesome, much better than I could have ever imagined. I've got 2 different gyms that are letting me post my pledge sheets. Plus my family is trying to get me as many pledges as they can AND I've already collected over $250.00 worth of pledges from my work. This is really going amazing.
Body for Life Forum Message by Young Guns (1569 posts) at 10:17 PM
bump
Body for Life Forum Message by shibox (12 posts) at 01:35 AM
Hot damn!! ALREADY?!?!?!
Body for Life Forum Message by kellythecoach (15 posts) at 12:09 AM
Woo-Hoo our team rocks!
Body for Life Forum Message by LOVE4KIDS (38 posts) at 07:45 AM
Hey Team 10! My first week is going pretty well. Since this is the first week /first challenge it has been a little akward doing the lifting. It has also taken some adjusting to get to the right weights for each set so that I can hit the 10s. All in all I think I am on the right track. HOpe everyone else is doing great! Karyn
Body for Life Forum Message by Udenia (2157 posts) at 12:55 PM
Jim, You are always there with words of inspiration and encouragement! You are defintely appreciated here on the Tracker site!
I am thinking of how I can enjoy free day without killing myself and I will replace some of my favorite free foods with some of my favorite lean cuisine pizza's or pasta dishes! YUMMY!
Stay Strong and Stay Focused!
Body for Life Forum Message by BFL bride to be (19 posts) at 01:24 PM
Loved this post- maybe you should write a motivational self-help book? You have all the right answers and make us all feel like winners!
Body for Life Forum Message by leanzzz (3 posts) at 06:20 AM
I am on my second challenge. I will never quit BFL. The change in my life has been drastic for the good. I thought I looked good before I started my first challenge because I weighed what I did in high school! People were asking me if I was sick! I nearly ran myself to death at the ironicly "HealthyHuntington" marathon in West Virginia of November 2004. I was hospitialized with rhabdomyolosis. Thank God my kidneys started working after three liters of IV fluid. BFL turned my life around.
Body for Life Forum Message by Persephone (465 posts) at 06:30 AM
Carolyn Culverhouse was another champion who was acknowledged for multiple challenges. But I haven't seen any champion who completed multiple challenges with their FIRST photo diplayed with their final photo. I gotta agree with you guys--those with mutiple challenges ahead of them are climbing one heck of a mountain. And they deserve special recognition!!
Best,
P
Body for Life Forum Message by Persephone (465 posts) at 06:31 AM
Oh and Jim should have a special recognition!! Just because he is so often the voice of reason and motivation!
Body for Life Forum Message by leanzzz (3 posts) at 06:41 AM
I was too embarressed to tell about my story. After reading the 2005 finalist essays, I will climb out of the box and turn my story in at the end of my second challenge in January. I want to motivate people about BFL.
I was hospitalized three days after the marathon. Thank God my kidneys started working after three liters of IV fluid. At the end of my hospital stay, I gained 30 lbs. of fluid!! My legs temporarily looked like "Arnold's" but my upper body looked like a refugee's!! I could hardly walk. I was off work for a week.
Body for Life Forum Message by leanzzz (3 posts) at 06:45 AM
BFL means we will live it for the rest of our lives. It is a lifestyle change that just keeps improving the way we feel and look and how we think about ourselves. The transformation rubs off and inspires other people to start the journey!!
Body for Life Forum Message by Tomcat1066 (69 posts) at 06:58 AM
Sounds to me like EAS needs to categories, one for 12 week transformations, and one for Lifestyle Transformations. Both will be dramatic and inspiring.
Until then, I'll just take pics at the end of every 12 weeks. After all, this is truly a contest where just finishing is a victory! Look at what you win!!!
Tom
Body for Life Forum Message by tigermuscle (374 posts) at 07:08 AM
The last time I talked to someone at EAS about this (granted it was two years ago) they look at each transformation seperately, but in the long run they do take into account multiple challenges.
Body for Life Forum Message by ~Lala~ (716 posts) at 12:56 AM
Yep Jamber I'm with you.. no c-section..but lots of stretch marks & still "wobbly" skin( I dunno waht else to call it ~lol) ..aiming to see if it can get nice & tightened this year!
I like that you say you're NOT giving up Karen! That's the way to surely find out just how much CAN shrink for you!
Lets GO girl! :)
Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (248 posts) at 01:26 AM
Lala, you rock. Point made. :-)
Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (248 posts) at 01:28 AM
I call it my jello belly. I lay on my back and my son blows raspberries on it like I do him. Not cool, but very funny! My hubby wishes there was bedding material made of it........LOL Good thing I have a great sense of humor!
Body for Life Forum Message by Flower (2184 posts) at 05:28 AM
With my first I gained about 90 lbs, no I'm not kidding. At the end of my pregnancy I had the red/purple "angry" looking stretch marks. I lost all the weight except 10 lbs of it and had no loose skin. My mom had 3 kids and no stretch marks; mine did go away. The 2nd I gained about 35 - no stretch marks. I'm a true believer that its hereditary.
With the 2nd I had a csection. I've lost a good deal of weight and SOME of the loose skin tightened up, some is still there. The scar tissue underneath is definately still there. After about 12-18 months it shrunk to what it is now; it may be smaller but there is still a thick band of rope as scar tissue and I know it will never ever go away but I find some bathing suits hide it better than others.
Yes you can improve it tremendously but there is a major genetics factor figuring into the scheme of things too. Take a look at your mother as a general "guideline". JMO
Body for Life Forum Message by twinmom (330 posts) at 06:38 AM
I agree with Flower. During my preganancy with twins, I gained 70+ pounds. After losing all my weight with BFL, I found that some of my skin tightened but some loose skin is still there. But if you look at my picture you only notice it around my belly button.Most people don't notice it, only I do.
Everyone's body is diferent so there is no way of telling what you will look like. But give it a shot.
Good luck.
Body for Life Forum Message by im2fat (17 posts) at 09:00 AM
Here is a good article by Ron Brown -the myth of loose skin, i wish my loose skin was a myth!;)http://www.bodyfatguide.com/LooseSkin.htm
Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (406 posts) at 09:07 AM
I still have a tiny bulge there.... but i truly think it is a permanent fixture because its like there is a little more fat above my scar than below it.... I dont know.... but I did get it down to the point of being able to hide it under the right bikini bottoms.
Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1080 posts) at 09:14 AM
Hmmmm I was 125 when I got Pregnant and I weighed about hmmm oh about 190 when I gave birth.... then I just got bigger after pregnancy due to other circumstances. Things are going well. I think it has to do with slow and steady instead of really rapid loss as with a just low carb diet. You will be exercising and building muscle which is important and the skin is a very elastic organ. It can change so much and repair itself. You might have stretch marks? What mother does not ;-) Though each person is totally different.
I have to admit after my 1st 12 weeks it seemed I had a little loose skin on my belly but it has since tightened up. I could really see what I called a mamma dog belly when I bent over sideways. But after a year it has tightened up even more and does not look anything like it did last April. It does take some time though. I remember seeing women on here telling others not to worry it will go away. And I would get so frustrated because it was 1/2 a year and it was not gone. Eventually though it did go away.
Now there are some loose skin cases that just don't go away. Mine is at the very bottom of my belly but you can only see it when I sit down. Not anywhere that would be exposed. lol... and it is very faint now.
Body for Life Forum Message by MomOfThree (4 posts) at 09:40 AM
I just gave birth to my third child 09/29/2005 and started my BFL program on 11/28/2005. You can look at my pictures and see that the program does work. Tomorrow I will be taking and posting my 6 week pictures and hopefully see some more changes. The loose skin is a problem for me too, but I am going to wait until I have completed the program to see if I need to take further measures to rid my body of it! I also have highways for stretch marks ... see where I've grown!? I do not concern myself with what the outside world thinks of my stretch marks ... I was bound to get them ... and I have 3 beautiful children to show for it! After my first child was born, My friends and I used to joke that the stretch mark directly above my belly button looked like a bullet hole! LOL! But after having two more babies within a 14 month period of time, it now looks like the Grand Canyon. Hehehehehe! I'm a mom ... I have stretch marks ... but I love myself enough not to let that bother me. The loose skin on the other hand is incredibly annoying! Good luck on your journey. I believe that you will be incredibly pleased with your results once you are finished with your 12 weeks.
Body for Life Forum Message by Young Guns (1569 posts) at 12:01 AM
I hate myoplex as well always have always will. Too thick. There's sooooo many other meal replacements out there for you to try. I use a weight gainer mixed with straight protien so I really can't give you any suggestions but most you can get samples of or you can even just buy a 1 serving packet.
Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (248 posts) at 12:19 AM
I always use more water or also, if you blend it for a real long time, if I remember right, it gets thicker. Try using the liquify button, or similar on your blender. Ive tried others, but they are too thin, or completely gross. This is a meal replacement, not a glass of chocolate milk, lol
good luck!
xoxo Karen
Body for Life Forum Message by dreambig (78 posts) at 12:35 AM
I loooooove Myoplex shakes and I always will!!! I could drink them all day. Chocolate and vanilla, YUM. I was drinking them all the time at work as was called "Ms. Myoplex". Hope EAS never changes the recipe.
Body for Life Forum Message by SportyGirl (112 posts) at 05:30 AM
I buy the Myoplex original sachets (Strawberry Cream is great!) and use half as a meal. I make it with ice cubes and more water than shown on the instructions and use a blender rather than a shaker - it makes it a much nicer drink.
Check the protein content on the sachets you're buying - I generally aim for approx 21 grams of protein per meal.
Body for Life Forum Message by fit2006 (9 posts) at 06:27 AM
I bought a whole case of Myoplex and drank only TWO. Now I drink the "Body-for-LIFE ready-to-drink shake" - only the Cookies & Cream. When I first put it to my lips and I thought I was going to have to force it down, but it really tastes great - like cookies & cream!!! Not as much protein (15g) as Myoplex but at least I can drink it! Try that. http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/eas/bodyrtd.html
Body for Life Forum Message by Tomcat1066 (69 posts) at 07:25 AM
If you don't like the taste of Myoplex, try Met-Rx. That's my personal favorite shake :D
Tom
Body for Life Forum Message by mrhardbody (15 posts) at 07:30 AM
Try using a shaker instead of a blender. I use a blender but use cold filtered water from the fridge and it doesnt get thick. Stay away from the ice cubes. Also, using extracts like almond and coconut in the chocolate give it an "almond joy" taste. Peppermint in vanilla tastes like mint ice cream. Experiment. :)
Body for Life Forum Message by BFL bride to be (19 posts) at 07:33 AM
Myoplex Lite is only tolerable to me made with three ice cubes, 10 oz of water, and blended for about 30 seconds. Otherwise you have to choke it down. Tomcat is right- Metrx Extreme Chocolate packets are delicious, but higher in calories so you'd have to cut them in have maybe to stay within your target calorie range.
Skwigg (http://skwigg.com/id25.html) has a great page on doctoring MYoplex so that it tastes better. Or you could always sell it on ebay :)
Body for Life Forum Message by scotfarcus (22 posts) at 08:08 AM
I Love them!! Cottage cheese is my enemy! I love to mix mine with coffee and Ice! It makes a cafe mocha slushie!! YUMMY!@
Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (406 posts) at 09:04 AM
Try thr advantedge ones.... I really like them, and they are lower calorie than myoplex, I think. I really like the cookies and cream and strawberry flavors for a change.
Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1080 posts) at 09:33 AM
Are you using Myoplex regular or Lite. I like the Myo-Lite it is a little less thick. Maybe try a whey Protein shake with 1 cup of frozen fruit for your carbs instead of Myoplex. Not as thick.
I love Myoplex lite it is such a treat. Of course I am on a very restricted diet and thought I hit the jackpot when I got to have jalapeno's last night ;-). You know what is really really really good. Is Labrada's Lean Body shakes. If you are a girl you just used half of the packet. But omg they are so yuuummy!
Body for Life Forum Message by Can'tStopMe (492 posts) at 09:36 AM
I hate those packaged shakes too. I now use the EAS Whey Protein mix and make my own recipes. I bought all kinds of flavorings (banana, rootbeer, coconut, etc) and have a great time being creative. I find its WAY more economical. I keep the Myoplex Carb Sense RTD in my car in case of emergencies and thats it. It took me almost 3/4 of challenge one to learn my lesson.
Body for Life Forum Message by JerryBraam.com (102 posts) at 09:46 AM
Roe said:
I am just not liking the thickness of the shake. Do I use the entire packet? he talks about portions, so a man and a woman totally differnt in size, does that mean I should use half the packet? Then I don't have to drink as much :) Roe
Roe if it is the thickness that you "hate", just add more water to thin it down. (I use 20oz. of H2O) If it is the portion that causes you greif, try MyoPlex Lite. Or half as you stated...
Having lived BFL for 5 years. I have "tried" several different meal replacements (MRPs). But respect the consistant quality & university research that EAS is famous for. This always brings me back. Also because my taste & needs do change frequently...I enjoy the large variety of MyoPlex...Original, Sport, Deluxe, CarbSense, Lite, all the Ready to drinks (RTDs). Especially the Cappuccino & Precision Protein!
JerryBraam
Body for Life Forum Message by sterling (2 posts) at 11:10 AM
I totally agree,the powder shakes can be thick and yucky, although, the coffee, slushy mocha idea sounds yummy!
The ready to drink eas shakes are way better, even enjoyable. Another great alternative are Syntrax Nectar protien shakes. They stir into water with just a spoon and come in delicious juice flavors.
Hope that helps!
Heather
Body for Life Forum Message by Roe (18 posts) at 11:39 AM
THANKS ALL, GLAD TO KNOW THEIR ARE OTHER OPTIONS. I MEAN I knew it already, but wanted to hear it fro the horse's mouth.
I feel slightly guilty drinking
Sprien-tien.
I love the flovr in that protein powder it is sooo good.
So condsdering fromthe post, i guess its okay to drink from a different source!
xoxxo Roe
Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (248 posts) at 12:16 AM
1st thing, I'm going to apologize for being so winded on this, but I need some advice.
Key points for this thread..lol
1) hubby out of town all week
2) sister in law is going thru menopause and is completely a b-person....
3) baby came down with a cold
4) birthstone ring in jewelers getting sized, 35 miles away
Theres a reason for all this babble.
Ok. now, I went to get my ring today, it had been there for 2 weeks. I took my son (13 mo old) He is battling either a cold or bad allergies (sneezing, snotty nose, tired, etc) I went there and straight back. I laid him down for a nap for 2 hrs. he got up, and I called my mother in law to see if she would watch him for an hour while I work out, knowing he wasnt feeling well. She said sure. (didnt want him to be around other kids in the childwatch)
I go to the gym, and lock my keys in my car! Hubby out of town.....4 hrs away...only person is my sister in law, Shelley. No other choices, I call her. She thought she had a key, but didnt. I am in the middle of my back workout and she comes up and tells me this. I stop, and she says "you know what the problem is dont you". I said "what". she says "what mother would take their sick baby to pick up a stupid ring?" I said "this mother would".
Baby is not ill, simply got a cold. This was a diamond birthstone ring for christmas from my parents.
She then looks at me and says "I cant believe you. All you are doing is thinking of yourself, not your son, and you are being nothing but selfish". !!!! The rest of the coversation is history. What do I say? She was calling a locksmith for me with her roadside assistance!!! I was soooo upset and mad and wanted to just cry that I lost total focus on my workout. I finished, but, didnt hit my 10's. I am so pissed.
She has a way of doing things like this quite often.
Am I a 'bad' mother for doing this? I have put my last year on hold and done NOTHING for myself, and it shows. And now that I'm trying to improve, "I'm Selfish!!" Please advise. where do i go from here.
ps. an hour later, they came and got my car unlocked. of course she calls me later and says "oh, just wanted to let you know we are here for you if u need any help with the baby"......i wanted to puke.
Body for Life Forum Message by ~Lala~ (716 posts) at 01:01 AM
NO you're NOT being selfish.. you're trying to juggle life!!!
Geees you gotta LOVE how some people can say retarded "helpful" things eh?
Keep your chin up hon!
hugs
Lala*
Body for Life Forum Message by blessedgirl (2 posts) at 01:13 AM
YOU are not selfish! SHE is being insensitive! You deserve to get your ring and your workout! Being a mama is full time work and anything but SELFISH!!!!!!!!!! Maybe she is a bit jealous???? Does she have kids? probley not and if she plans on it she will be eating her words soon! KEEP GOIN GIRL!!!! Carmel
Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (248 posts) at 01:25 AM
Yeah, she has a 19 year old. She is so opinionated. I think alot of it is jealousy. For the last year and a half I have been very chubby....misery loves company, right?
Body for Life Forum Message by Flower (2184 posts) at 04:02 AM
She's just being a bitch plain and simple. Even if your baby was really really sick. I would have done the same as you in this case, not trying to downplay it but it is just a cold (thats the attitude I've always had with colds) and I don't see what one has to do with the other. You locked the keys in the car, there's no "because of". She needed an excuse to be a bitch and you provided it - maybe she should be a little more grateful for THAT! Afterall, if you hadn't been a dumb-dumb who else was there for her to be a bitch to? If you're selfish well then she's an ungrateful bitch, ha ha, so there.
Body for Life Forum Message by Tomcat1066 (69 posts) at 07:31 AM
Selfish for picking up your property and taking your child along? Uhhhhh no.
Your sister in law needs to get her head out of her butt.
Tom
Body for Life Forum Message by LOVE4KIDS (38 posts) at 07:37 AM
Why is it that everytime a mother does a little something for herself she is considered selfish? I say ignore all the negative people in your life and surround yourself with the positive supportive ones. Karyn
Body for Life Forum Message by Cheri (79 posts) at 08:12 AM
I agree with the others keep going you are being anything but selfish.If you are working to be strong and healthy and set a great example for your son when he is older.
You have to take of you if you plan to take care of others.
Cheri
Body for Life Forum Message by Dana D (540 posts) at 08:36 AM
Flower ALWAYS tells it like it is...your SIL is just a bitch-no doubt about it!!
Dont allow her to make you feel guilty. Bottom line ...you are TAKING CARE of yourself.
Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1080 posts) at 08:47 AM
Holy cow! You have better control than I do! I just had a smoothie dude (they opened a new smoothie bar in are gym) offering me a sample in the middle of my set. I yelled at him NO! He was lucky I was not in a heavy set I would have really let him have it! Now if your situation had happened to me holy ^&*^&*^* I would have OMG gone bezzerko on her. She is being a complete crazy b%^%&. You are not a bad mother! Not at all and don't let her and her crazy actions make you think that !
Here is my advice: I would calmly but sternly tell her that you are thankful for her helping you out of a tight situation. Smile then turn it to a serious face but don't you ever approach me that way or try to accuse me of being a bad mother ever again! Esp. coming into the gym during a workout! If that is the way you are going to handle it I would rather not have your help at all.
Ok after that is said be sure to never really need her help in the near future ;-) lol.
Body for Life Forum Message by gonnabeahottie (24 posts) at 08:59 AM
Yea, you definitely kept your cool better then me. I'm with TNT. I would not have been able to cool it. I probably would have gotten so mad, I would have stopped my lifting workout and headed straight for some punching bags, put on some gloves, and imagined that woman's face on that bag.. and I would have went to town on her bitchy little face.... Try that next time. If she's a bitch all the time, there will be a next time. Get yourself a punching bag and let yourself get really mad and then take it out on the bag. It's an excellent cardio workout and a great way to channel the anger. When my ex decided he was going to start cheating on me, that's when I bought my kickboxing bag. Every time I started thinking about it and I felt like crying, I would head for the bag and literally pound the hell out of his imaginary face. It works wonders!
Don't let anyone tell you that you are a bad mother. By getting in shape, you are helping your whole family. You are promising that baby that you want to be healthier so you can live longer and be there for him longer. You are teaching him a healthy way of life and he will be a very healthy young athlete if you stick with it as he grows up. The things you are doing now will influence him his entire life.
Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (406 posts) at 09:01 AM
I take my 16 month old everywhere with me.... granted we are lucky in that she has never been truly sick, but her doc says some fresh air is good when they have the sniffles.
You can't stop life because your child has a cold, or it will be a LOOOONG 18 years! My daughter goes just about everywhere with me. And she goes to grandmas if that isnt possible. My extended family members often disagree with the way I do things (see my thread about my sis in law) but you have to do what's right for you.... people who don't workout don't realize how important it is to those of us who do. Keep your chin up girl!
Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (406 posts) at 09:03 AM
Also I agree with gonnabeahottie- it is SO important to set a good example to your kids about exercise. It is already a part of my daughter's daily life, and I know she will be a healthy active little girl because I am showing her how.
Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (248 posts) at 12:40 PM
ALL these replies are so good...i feel like sobbing lol... i stopped my bc pills, maybe my hormones are out of wack..:-)
Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (248 posts) at 12:22 AM
Just doing a check in for the day. Hope all is going great! I had a rough day today, (see the selfish post). Hope you all had a better one than I did!
We are gonna rock this, keep up the great work!!
xoxo
Karen
Body for Life Forum Message by fitnesscrazedmom (7 posts) at 01:23 AM
Hi all. Just want to introduce myself. I am starting this challenge again on Monday. I did this challenge last week, got to week 9 with good results and then slid. I went on vacation then moved from NY to FLA. Well, I am finally settled in here in my new home and I LOVE IT HERE. Any fellow Floridians out there? I am buying fitness equipment for my garage for the days I just can't make the gym, although I make it most days at lunch if no other time.
THIS TIME I WILL ROCK THIS CHALLENGE. I live in the sunshine state now and don't have 8 months a year to hide under bulky sweaters any more. So this is it, must do this this time and do it for LIFE.
SO LETS GO EVERYONE, 2006 WILL BE THE YEAR WE ALL RECLAIM OUR BODIES FOR LIFE!!!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by Tomcat1066 (69 posts) at 06:46 AM
Welcome. My challenge starts Monday as well. I'm not a Floridian, but I'm in South GA so I'm not to far away :D
Tom
Body for Life Forum Message by tigermuscle (374 posts) at 03:55 AM
Whooo hoo!!
week 1 - 312 pounds, 32% bodyfat
end of week 10 (week 1 of contest prep) - 309 pounds, 29% bodyfat
gain of over 10 pounds of muscle, loss of 13 pounds of fat!!
yay me!!! LOL
Body for Life Forum Message by SportyGirl (112 posts) at 05:10 AM
Way to go tigermuscle!!!
You are totally rocking this challenge!
Body for Life Forum Message by Persephone (465 posts) at 06:08 AM
Fantastic!! Congratulations--and you can really see the difference!
Best,
P
Body for Life Forum Message by blemt (164 posts) at 06:21 AM
Make sure to get a side picture on your progress pics. I'm pretty sure you are going to see a good difference. :)
This is why I tell people to measure their bf every week. You could not see much scale movement, but there is a big change going.
Awesome job gary!
Body for Life Forum Message by tigermuscle (374 posts) at 07:09 AM
Im happy with the drop, but if I am ot be contest ready by september, a 3% drop roughly every three months cant cut it.
Body for Life Forum Message by BIG BULL (864 posts) at 08:03 AM
You are on your way tiger!!! Strike up the band and get back in the weight room! Remember...INTENSITY is the key to every workout!
BIG BULL
Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (248 posts) at 04:07 PM
GO TIGER!
ITS YOUR BIRTHDAY!
GET BUSY!
LOL SORRY COULDNT RESIST
WAY TO GO!!
Body for Life Forum Message by hotmominmi (21 posts) at 06:26 AM
Okay so how does everyone ignore that evil little thing. I feel like I'm getting a few results, weigh myself and it seems like I'm not, or I'm actually gaining. Maybe I should throw it out?? And weigh in once a week at the gym??
Body for Life Forum Message by BIG BULL (864 posts) at 06:46 AM
I DAMN the Scale!! In my first challenge it took me 6 weeks to finally realize that the scale had to be thrown out and do the weekly weigh-in somewhere else! You're learnin' hotmom!!
BIG BULL
Body for Life Forum Message by Tomcat1066 (69 posts) at 07:02 AM
I personally just keep in mind that body fat percentage is more important to me than actual weight. I wouldn't mind my weight if it was lean muscle mass. Since the scale can't tell me that by itself, then I don't sweat it.
Tom
Body for Life Forum Message by BFL bride to be (19 posts) at 07:49 AM
Have you read Skwigg's article on why the scale lies-- http://skwigg.com/id12.html ?
It always reminds me that things like salt and water consumption will play havoc on scale readings and its better to just ignore it but once a week or maybe even once a month!
Body for Life Forum Message by scotfarcus (22 posts) at 08:04 AM
I personally like the scale, she is my ali (spelling???). Anyway I know that from week to week as it changes I know that I'm changing. When it goes up, I know I'm building muscle and I'm in transition. I'm on C2, so C1 was such a learning experience. I learned that if I know that I'm doing everything right, the change will come. Your body is a magical and mysterious thing and if you treat it right, in time it will do what you want it to. Change takes time though!
Body for Life Forum Message by Agent 69 (566 posts) at 08:12 AM
it took me all of the first 6 weeks of challenge 1 to come to the same realization as you.
I now schedule my weigh in's for Saturday morning's, every week, about the same time. BUT, I ALWAYS take measurements BEFORE I weigh.....by doing this I have already seen the difference before I ever step on that scale.
Body for Life Forum Message by VegasGuy (84 posts) at 10:53 AM
I used to be a chronic scale watcher. I would sometimes weigh myself twice a day just to see if a half a pound had dropped off.
I finally realized that this was a counter productive behavior and that the scale is a very inaccurate tool.
It's a tough addiction to break, but I figured if I can give up my favorite junk foods then I can certainly ease up on the scale.
I weigh myself once a week on Sunday mornings (before the free day kicks in). I also use an Omron bodyfat monitor once a month (every 4th Sunday morning). If I have been true to my workouts and eating...the scale won't disappoint me.
And lastly, the way you feel, and the way your clothes fit are the true test of your success.
Stay Strong,
Chris
Body for Life Forum Message by michiganmike (228 posts) at 11:26 AM
HOW DO YOU IDENTIFY A SCALE-AHOLIC?
1. Weighs more than once a day.
2. Thinks about whether he/she has lost or gained any weight that particular day.
3. Stands with heels back on the very back of the scale with weight off toes and balls of foot, hoping this will take a few pounds off!
4. Is very happy when the scales show a loss.
5. Is very unhappy when scales show a gain.
6. Is neither happy nor unhappy when scales stay the same.
7. Seriously considers adjusting the scales so as to make it appear he/she weighs less.
8. Does posts on tracker or guestbook about scales.
9. Doesn't know where the tape measure is.
10. Considers body fat analysis to be "junk science."
Body for Life Forum Message by eve36 (10 posts) at 11:47 AM
I put my scale away after day 3, when I found myself devastated by the reading. All that sacrifice and exercise, and no poundage lost???? I haven't weighed myself since, but I'm dying too. I may be a scale-aholic as Mike described! It was just too hard to stay focused and upbeat when I didn't see the immediate results.
We need to have some faith - BFL has worked wonders for so many people. There's no reason it won't work for us if we follow the program!
Body for Life Forum Message by LittleBig (41 posts) at 11:52 AM
I'm taking 69's advice. I'll measure first tomorrow b4 hitting the scale. I'm short and never had much luck with losing tons of weight bc I think I build muscle quickly. Yah!!
Body for Life Forum Message by Fiona Oceangirl (51 posts) at 12:49 PM
I packed my scale away, dreaded thing.Said I lost 2 kilos, yet my clothes are hanging on me. I dont need it to tell me that alls well. If I had to count on the scale for motivation, I would have quit a long time ago, beleiving that nothing was happening....
Dreaded scale, weigh once a month or once a week, let your clothes be the judge to your progress. Good luck!!!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by tonee (153 posts) at 12:59 PM
You learn early that the scale is a hater. The thing is pure evil!!!!!
But I am still a scale aholic. But at least I've gotten down to only weighing once a week to update my stats. Yay I'm making progress. Besides I'm more excited by BF and inch loss. Oh yeah, and loose clothes.
Body for Life Forum Message by hotmominmi (21 posts) at 03:31 PM
hotmominmi said:
Okay so how does everyone ignore that evil little thing. I feel like I'm getting a few results, weigh myself and it seems like I'm not, or I'm actually gaining. Maybe I should throw it out?? And weigh in once a week at the gym??
Body for Life Forum Message by fit2006 (9 posts) at 06:33 AM
Well, my first free day is coming up this Sunday and I'm afraid I'm going to lose it! I am really craving some french fries, the boardwalk style cooked in peanut oil. Can I really eat this? I have been doing so well this week!
What do most people do on their free day?
Thanks!
Body for Life Forum Message by kitwhit (16 posts) at 08:38 AM
I am going to eat clean until 3 pm when I will go to my first bellydancing class. After class I will go to my favorite authentic Japanese restaurant and indulge in sushi and ramen and gyoza!!! I might even have a sake! Oddly I find that I am not craving the bad stuff. Also I think if I filled myself on cheeseburgers and fries it would mess my system up something fierce. DOn't tell me I have already adjusted to this 6 meal diet . . .
Body for Life Forum Message by fit2006 (9 posts) at 08:52 AM
A little off-topic but I, too, am enrolled in bellydance class. My class is on Sundays!!! I can not wait!!! Please PM and let me know how your class went.
I started another thread regarding the Free day on Eating-for-life forum as I think it is better suited in that category. Still a newbie and learning the ropes around here!
Check out the comments over in Eating-for-life regarding the Free Day.
Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1080 posts) at 09:00 AM
Honestly eat every single thing you want!!! I think it is important your very first Freeday to go about it how you want. Trust me on this... this is how you learn. You will learn how it makes you feel and you will gain knowledge from it. Don't hold back even Bill says if you want to eat a WHOLE apple pie then eat it on Free Day. Trust me there is a method to the madness. ;-)
I have always told people "my first free day was better planned than my wedding day!". LOL it was whew! I leaned quickly after that.
Body for Life Forum Message by 1leanmom (4 posts) at 09:19 AM
my first free day is coming up sunday too and I'm wondering how I'll do. with church and sunday school being from 9 til noon, I know I'll be starving if I just eat my normal size breakfast at 8...
I'm trying to plan out my meals so I won't be drawn to that doughnut table!!
any suggestions? :)
Body for Life Forum Message by J-Dub (171 posts) at 09:25 AM
YES!!! Eat the fries. Eat what you WANT for one day.
But have a plan for AFTER free day, a very specific plan for the next day. Have your food prepared ahead if you need to. Have the water bottle ready. Don't leave your eating to chance that you might let free day spill over to another day.
But enjoy your free day!
(1leanmom -- if you do't want the donuts, bring a protein bar with you)
Body for Life Forum Message by shkelly (178 posts) at 09:30 AM
This challenge I am planning my free day as well as all the others. I figure if I have a plan then I won't kick myself at the end of the day. YES have the fries. Free day is not only good for keeping you on track the rest of the time but it helps your body realize that you aren't starving it and it helps you lose fat faster. Just my experience anyway. TAKE THE FREE DAY!!
Shelly =)
Body for Life Forum Message by Can'tStopMe (492 posts) at 09:31 AM
Free days are a learning lesson. Eat as you please. As the weeks pass you will find the messages your body sends you will change.
In the 20 or so weeks I've been doing BFL, I've had all kinds of different free days. Carefully planned, all out dysfunctional binges, just junk food, allowed myself only one meal, etc. On the whole, I have found that it takes my body until Thursday (my free days are on Sunday) to recover. Sometimes it was worth it, others...not so much.
You'll learn but while you are learing, enjoy your freeday and know the next day is back to business.
Good Luck!
Body for Life Forum Message by Tomcat1066 (69 posts) at 09:58 AM
I feel it's a lot easier the rest of the week to say "I can't have that today" than "I can't have that ever". As such, eat whatever you want on freedays. After a while, I suspect I won't want unhealthy foods at all, and will just increase portions of "clean" foods. At least, I hope so! ;)
Tom
Body for Life Forum Message by Lindyloo (39 posts) at 10:45 AM
I agree totally with Can'tStopMe! This last free day, I had pizza and a Greek sandwich. I didn't even have any sweets...or fried food. After a few 'food hang-overs' I don't want to stuff myself with junk, just so I can work so hard for one week and do it all again. Listen to your body. Have what you want, but what you want DOES start to change. This Sunday, I am definately having something sweet. I have learned I have to have the sweets with or after food, otherwise my blood sugar is shocked, and I can't sleep Sunday night. Other things are affected besides just the scale. I think that is what Can'tStopMe meant by, "Free days are a learning lesson." Have fun with it....
Body for Life Forum Message by GKK1983 (2 posts) at 10:58 AM
Does anyone start their week on Saturday so that Friday is their free day?
Our office winds down at the local watering hole on Fridays and I figured a Sat-Thur schedule was the best way to have the least impact on the professional life...
Body for Life Forum Message by michiganmike (228 posts) at 11:30 AM
FREE DAY is free! That means doing what you want, rather than what you ought. The actual psychology of it is that it is supposed to teach you that overeating on really bad stuff is yucky! For the majority of people it does. For those who have eating disorders, particularly bulemia, it doesn't! It simply ignites the old feelings, cravings, and dark, secretive kind of behavior that brings on anger, fear, depression and failure. Sooo, if you are not one of the eating disorder people, knock yourself out--literally eat all and whatever you wish! If you are one of those people, proceed with caution if you wish to do well.
Body for Life Forum Message by Roe (18 posts) at 11:34 AM
Oh My GOSH!!!
I specifically buy foods for my free day!! I can't believe some people actually et bfl meals on free day! I eman thats awesome, I wish i could do that. But I know I have one day to eat whatever the heck I want... ido just that.
I had startbucks toffeenut latte with
a Godiva truffles (2)!!! Yum...
In-n-out cheeseburger w. fries!! and a SHAKe!!!!
This program is wonderful!!!
We follow the book accordingly, when it come to eating right for 6 days, workouts plans, and cardio inclines,
BUT THE TROUBLE IS THAT 7TH DAY!! WE NEED TO REALIZE IT IS OKAY TO EAT WHATEVER YOU WANT!! tHE BOOK SAYS SO!!
GOD BLESS YOU ALL!
rOE
Body for Life Forum Message by SweetEmotion (1137 posts) at 11:36 AM
I ate DIRTY last night. I shared a bottle of wine with casey. We then met with some of his co workers and I had to work today so I didnt drink anymore and you would have thought we were all back in high school. I caught all kinds of hell for not drinking more. Pissed me off.
Lori
Body for Life Forum Message by Buffy-the-FatLayer-Slayer (53 posts) at 11:37 AM
And on the 7th day God said LET THEM EAT WHATEVER THE HECK THEY WANT
Body for Life Forum Message by SportyGirl (112 posts) at 11:45 AM
I understand you being pissed off Lori - I can't drink alcohol at all anymore and I'm amazed at people with that high school attitude. Why on earth does me not having a drink seem to have such a major impact on their lives??!!
Body for Life Forum Message by SweetEmotion (1137 posts) at 11:46 AM
I don't know why it bothered anyone why I wasn't drinking. I felt like I was at a HS party or something. did the phrase, I HAVE TO WORK TOMORROW mean anything? Obviously not.
Lori
Body for Life Forum Message by Hot Body (520 posts) at 12:32 PM
Tom Venuto has some good advice on that one. Instead of giving some reasonable excuse for not drinking alcohol, like "I'm on this program," or "I'm cutting down on wine," he suggests to go for the outrageously clinical. "My doctor is testing my liver for a genetically inherited disorder and has said I shouldn't take chances at further poisoning my liver." He's basically suggesting that you turn the peer pressure into a fun game for yourself.
I was afraid I'd have tons of pressure to drink, but as it turns out none of my friends questioned it. They didn't know I was BFLing it, I guess it's just that loads of people now have health reasons to cut the alcohol.
Body for Life Forum Message by Fiona Oceangirl (51 posts) at 12:45 PM
Hi everyone
Free days are my fun days.I usually save them for my eating out with friends or movies or any other special occasion in the week. I take one every week and thoroughly enjoy my freedom to not count the three hours and also enjoy without guilt some treats. I definately dont pig out, I just allow myself some treats or one special meal, or nachos at the movies. I have found that its not an expensive day, as long as you dont go overboard and loose control. So enjoy, but still be aware. What a great eating plan. BFL rocks.
Body for Life Forum Message by BIG BULL (864 posts) at 08:10 AM
IT'S WORKOUT TIME!!!
HIIT your 10's...
THROW DOWN your BEST WORKOUT of the week...
EAT as CLEAN as a Competitive Athlete...(because YOU are!)
DRINK WATER with Abandon...
...and set YOUR GOALS HIGH!!!
WEEK #1 is almost DONE...HOW will your WEEK #1 read in tomorrow's headlines???
BIG BULL focusin'
Body for Life Forum Message by Runningsouthernstyle (28 posts) at 08:19 AM
WTG BB, I added a weekly freakly check in. I checked in today, since tommorow is my freeday and I plan on Veggin out with some football and chicken wings. are they serious about no alcohol during this challenge???
Body for Life Forum Message by BIG BULL (864 posts) at 08:32 AM
uhhhhhhhh........yep! hard alcohol is too high in sugar. A lite beer on a free day is not going to end your world, but it is a lot of calories in one hit and alcohol, in general, slowwwws the metabolism!
Body for Life Forum Message by Runningsouthernstyle (28 posts) at 09:19 AM
Guess ill be alcohol free since I dont like beer, thanks for the help BB
MATT
Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (248 posts) at 12:42 PM
EXCEPT for only a 5/6 pointer yesterday, I ROCKED THIS WEEK!!! I dont know, some weird thing is keeping me going. maybe my mirror......
Body for Life Forum Message by BIG BULL (864 posts) at 12:48 PM
Wooooohoooooo.......just finished a killer UBWO!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by AirSpace (102 posts) at 01:05 PM
Reporting for duty... SIR!
I AM KICKING BUTT THIS WEEK!!
Body for Life Forum Message by bethkk (231 posts) at 08:11 PM
Busy day today...I missed this post until just now. I've had a great week, but my legs are killing me and I haven't done my LBWO today like I should have because I can barely walk up the stairs. I'm trying to get myself to go up to my gym right now. Hubby bought me an Ab Lounger today at Costco, so I need to try it out. Here I go (thanks for the inspiration, teammates!!)!
Body for Life Forum Message by bethkk (231 posts) at 09:39 PM
OK, when I can't walk tomorrow I will blame all of you!! Yes, I toughed it out and completed my entire LBWO!! YAY!! I am so proud of myself...even if I'll have to have help getting up and down out of the pew tomorrow morning at church!
Team Seven ROCKS!!
Body for Life Forum Message by Runningsouthernstyle (28 posts) at 08:17 AM
Alright yall, we did this in the running forum I was in, so why not start it here, with the BFL gang.
Here is my weekly check in, if you reply I will read it. We are all accountable to each other.
Ate mostly clean all week, but I had a can of chicken noodle soup and a 1/2 cup of hash browns.
Did all of my lifting workouts to the best of my abilities this week and managed to hit a few 10's.
Hit the running harder than usual and picked up the pace for 10 minutes of every run, did my first group run with the Heidelberg International Marathon Club.
Staying off the scale till Monday so I can see how 7 days made a difference. Learned that the Army BF test is way off it got me at 20%, but the impedence test thingy got me at 16% so....... Im gonna stick with the army method since that effects my life the most.
Motivational song of the week: Chad Brock "Lightnin Does the Work", play that for anyone who doubts you or themselves. It might stop them from talking and start them to doing...
The lyrics are on my blog on myspace if you are interested. (http://www.myspace.com/14105646)
If anyone has any suggestions to make the weekly freakly better (specific questions, anything) let me know and we will work it in.
ROLL TIDE ROLL and Keep up the Good work everyone
MATT (RSS)
Body for Life Forum Message by Runningsouthernstyle (28 posts) at 08:20 AM
I am gonna be checkin in the day before my Freeday, and since it is Saturday evening here in Germany it is on here early.
Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (406 posts) at 08:33 AM
Did all my lifting workouts, but had to do one UBWO at home with dumbells, which is never as good for me.
Did 3 HIIT treadmill runs. And an extra 5 miler at race pace.
Ate clean all week, and didn't have any beer til freeday!
Have a greta week 2 everyone!
Body for Life Forum Message by jamber (955 posts) at 09:12 AM
I'll go first....ME ME ME ME!!! Got all my clean meals, drank all my water, and hit all my workouts HARD!! Week 1 is down with a 2lb. 14 oz pound loss,,,only 2 oz shy of my 3 lb. goal!!! Plus, I feel incredible!!! We gotta keep this momentum going for week 2!!! Come on, come on, gimmee a whazzup!!!!
Lets hear ya, Trackers!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by Agent 69 (566 posts) at 09:14 AM
you got it baaaaaby
3 lb loss
.6% BF loss
3/4" over all loss (waist, hips, thighs)
a fantastic week
NOW------week 2's gonna be awesome!!
Body for Life Forum Message by NormRebs (260 posts) at 09:17 AM
I also lost 3 pounds and I am under 230lbs for the first time in 15 years!!!! 227lbs. Great week, 1 gallon of water a day ate clean and worked out hard all week! Great start to C-2!!
Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1080 posts) at 09:21 AM
WOHOOOO! I have had a great one and still am! Wooty Wooo!
CONGRATS To all of you as well! You guys are doing an amazing job!!! Keep it up! You know what they say the 1st week is the hardest! You have survived the hardest part. Kick butt on the upcoming weeks!
Goal Assessments & Goal Accomplish!
Way To Go BFL'ers"
Body for Life Forum Message by J-Dub (171 posts) at 09:23 AM
ME!!!
Haven't "officially" gotten on the scale yet, not til Monday, but my eating was sparkling clean, and I worked out every day despite being sick. YEAH WEEK 1!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by 1leanmom (4 posts) at 09:24 AM
my first week of my first challenge...was AWESOME! the only thing I didn't know about was the workout method (hittin those 10s...I'm still reading the book)...I worked out twice at home with dumbbells and once with a personal trainer and boy am I sore today!
thanks for all your posts! keeps a newbie motivated! :)
Body for Life Forum Message by LincolnJenn (6 posts) at 09:41 AM
My 1st week was great. Followed the program to a "t"! I am now able to walk properly after that LBWO! Wow, what an eye-opener that was. My neighbors kept asking me what was wrong with me!!!! So far have lost exactly 5lbs and am very sore all over. Today is my free day and I have already had two pop tarts! WAHOOO!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by Dana D (540 posts) at 09:43 AM
Me too me too!!
Wow-I havent felt sore like this in soooolong-and I LOVE IT!!
Thanks again Jamber for the ass-kickin!!
P.S. Did u do your pushups????
Body for Life Forum Message by zooman (376 posts) at 09:47 AM
I had a great week one. Could do better on the water consumption.
Ready for week two.
Body for Life Forum Message by kana (387 posts) at 09:51 AM
AWESOME..everyone had a super week. I feel 100% better, now that I am back to BFL!! My totals are:
6.5 pound weight loss
1.52% Body fat loss
3.25 Inches lost
I ate 100% clean, hit my 10's, drank my water, and my motivation is through the roof!! Great job everybody..let's keep it going!!
Body for Life Forum Message by PhatMom2006 (aka Bflmom2004) (1064 posts) at 10:05 AM
Whazzzzuppppppppp!!! I'll tell you whats up...and it's NOT my weight...it's my energy, my excitement, all the great BFL side effects!! What's the down side of this week you ask??? Well, the scale is on the downside baybeeeeee!! 5 pounds down this first week! (buh bye water weight...)
Hugs
Christie
Body for Life Forum Message by mrhardbody (15 posts) at 10:12 AM
Everything went perfect. On my plan/actual.....actual happened all week....here's hoping next week goes as well....Bj
Body for Life Forum Message by Shannette22 (636 posts) at 10:25 AM
I had an awesome week, too! It feels so good to get back into the swing of things!! All you people losing your 2, 3, 4 pounds. Gosh! Maybe I need to up it! I only lost 1 pound. Oh, well. We don't pay attention to the scale anyways! hehe
Body for Life Forum Message by Ngo Excuses (78 posts) at 10:38 AM
WOO HOO!!!Count me in...couldn't have been better...despite being sick...did all I neede to do!
Denise
Body for Life Forum Message by BIG BULL (864 posts) at 10:47 AM
Feeling good in the Tracker neighborhood!!! Lost 2 and feel GREAT, despite being mighty sore in the lower body!!!
BIG BULL stretchin'
Body for Life Forum Message by Hot Body (520 posts) at 10:58 AM
I had a great week - stayed focused and rocked my plan. I need to eat more, though. Lost a hair over my weekly goal - 1.8 pounds and 1.7% body fat!
I was excited until I saw Go4Steffie's update (8.5 pounds lost!), and then I felt like a total loser. Seriously. I'll spend the rest of the day kicking myself for comparing my progress against others and getting back into focus.
Body for Life Forum Message by Tai-Kee (2401 posts) at 11:24 AM
Yup great week here also! What a way to start off the new year!
Body for Life Forum Message by Udenia (2157 posts) at 11:43 AM
I have to say, I did pretty darn good this week, ate correctly, completed my workouts! and even drank all of my water! So I get an "A" for this week!
Lost 3lbs so I am happy!
LETS ROCK ON TO NEXT WEEK!
Body for Life Forum Message by Roe (18 posts) at 11:44 AM
lost 2.32% boft fat pure fat!!!!
lost 1lbs.
136 to 135!!!
Lean body mass gain was 2 lbs!!
I am loosing it all in the right pplaces!!!
I ate breakfast at a diner yesterday and he served itl. sauage and whole eggs in my omelet. I only ate half!!!
oppss!! I t wasn;t planned i swear!!
loveall xoxo Roe
Body for Life Forum Message by Roe (18 posts) at 11:44 AM
I thought too much weight in pund lost meant you were loosing muscle to? No?
Does it matter the size you are?
roe
Body for Life Forum Message by LittleBig (41 posts) at 11:50 AM
I did and I feel so great about me!!
Ate clean all week, all water, all workouts!!! Yipee!!
Still sore and not weighing in until tomorrow...(before free day :) ) but not planning on going crazy. I will be making no bake cookies though. Yum!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (248 posts) at 12:43 PM
I havent ate this clean since....I was in the womb?!?!
hahaha week one was great! Ill know my results tomorrow morning!
Body for Life Forum Message by Supa K (809 posts) at 12:46 PM
I had a good week, all workouts DONE! Eating GOOD (not perfect, but GOOD!).
Didn't do measurements last week, and not expecting a big scale change (wasn't carting around a lot of water weight myself).
But I feel good!
Body for Life Forum Message by GET*HER*DONE (2909 posts) at 12:47 PM
I did, I did!!!
awesome workouts!!
ate clean
but weight didn't move!
Hum! must be all that popyee muscle, hehe
Linda
Body for Life Forum Message by Fiona Oceangirl (51 posts) at 12:51 PM
Started 2nd with flu.Missed 3 workouts, but still drank all my 6 clean meals, couldnt eat due to sore inflammed throat. Once recovered, had great workouts and now am sore and revving to go for the next week. This weeks been awesome....no cheats, and going for the big one.
Body for Life Forum Message by Go4steffie (798 posts) at 01:04 PM
Well my week was awesome! I was a very good girl and ate very clean! Drank tons of water! Worked out hard and heavy! HIIT was great...bout killed me though!!!
I am down 8.5 pounds, but I would think about 6 of that was water. The three days before I started this again, I ate and ate and drank and drank (booze that is) and I felt like a bit sausage roll come January 1st. Now that the water weight is gone....let the real losing begin!!!
Stef :-)
Body for Life Forum Message by kitwhit (16 posts) at 01:05 PM
I made all my workouts and ate clean - drank oceans of water and peed every 40 minutes! Tomorrow morning is weights and measures but honestly I don't care - I feel so good. I celebrated today by burying my BFL for Women behind a shelf full of books and going out and buying the REAL book. No "mini chills" to eat chocolate for me! Phillips rules Peeke drools!
My only concern - I really thought I pushed it hard for my LBWO Wednesday but I didn't get sore so will do LUNGES next week I swear! That will kill me for sure!
GO EVERYONE!!!! You all inspire me so much!!!
Body for Life Forum Message by tonee (153 posts) at 01:27 PM
This week was so damn AMAZING!!!!!!!
I am so proud of myself. I don't think I've ever worked out as hard as I did this week. I am still sore for the effort and it feels great.
I lost 3.5lbs 3 inches and 1.2%BF. I ate clean and drank all of my water and did my workouts. I am determined to reach my goals this challenge.
Next week we will rock this thing even more. Congrats everyone and keep at it!!!
Tonya
Body for Life Forum Message by wannabegreat (8 posts) at 01:36 PM
Newbie here. Feel great about how my 1st week is going. My mood is definitely improved. (As I'm scolding my daughter for tying knots in my pantyhose.:) The scale is saying I'm losing weight and my muscles are remembering how to work hard again. I'll post stats on Monday for the real weight loss. Thanks for the motivating thread.
Body for Life Forum Message by Dana D (540 posts) at 01:36 PM
Ok...just back from the gym and the damn scale for an update on my week:
Dropped 7.5 LBS!!! (yeah I was carryin LOTS of water weight.
Havent done measurements but I got into a real SMALL 14(as opposed to a big 14-you women know how clothes sizes can be sometimes) jeans yesterday that I couldnt get up just 3 weeks ago!!
Body for Life Forum Message by SuzyQ (7 posts) at 02:09 PM
Great week too! Lost 7 lbs. (mostly water from drinking/eating over the holidays.) Feel no less than FANTASTIC!
wannabegreat - completely understand the "not scolding my daughter"....I too have had an very substantial amount of patience this week. Amazing how lifting weights and doing cardio can completely change your mood and focus.
Got to go do my cardio in a few minutes so I can have my free meal tonight...pizza!
Body for Life Forum Message by Roe (18 posts) at 02:21 PM
SuzyQ,
Why do you need to do cardio to eat pizza on your cheat day????
This seems to be one thing we just cannot accept...
Did I miss something?
Roe
Body for Life Forum Message by Forest Tech (111 posts) at 02:58 PM
This week has been my detox, kick it into high gear week. The first weigh-in on wednesday morning was 139.. a lot of it water.. now I'm down to 137... still some water from TOM.. I figure my mini vacation packed on 2-3 lbs though. I'm am ready to kick ass starting now! The best part of my wreckless vacation