Article Reviews

I've been headed in the wrong direction according to the scale for several months now, but a few days ago I wore an outfit to work that was too snug when I weighed 10 lbs less. ???? I know it doesn't make sense to me either. But it did help to get me past feeling disappointed at what the scale says.

So this morning I got on the scale and it said 256 - the same number as last week, but i'm coming to realize that it is just a number. So I am moving on and looking at other ways to improve my attitude towards weight loss.

Decided to check out a few articles here on spark to get me started. The first was a 3 part series Titled "Think You're too Heavy to Exercise"

Part 1 - talked about getting off to a good start by starting slow and modifying exercises. I think this is something people who have a lot of weight to lose should really take into consideration. When I started this journey at 286 lbs it was difficult to just walk a short distance. And when I watched a workout video I would get discouraged trying to keep up with the In-shape instructor who had much more flexibility and stamina than I did. I wish more videos offered instruction on how to modify the exercises if you are carrying more than 50 extra pounds.

Part 2 - talked about building and maintaining motivation and progress. One of the things that is suggested in the article is to keep a journal how you feel before-during-and after your workout. This is a new idea to me, I usually only keep track of what exercise I did not how long it took me to talk myself into it or how sore I am afterwards or how much more I could do this week compared to last. The theory is that by checking back in your journal you can see your problem areas or your progress and make adjustments as needed.

Part 3 - addresses all of the things that can , and will, go wrong while beginning a weight loss exercise program. Connecting the emotional with the physical and offering some advice for how to "plan ahead" for these things. It even talks about those times when you are disappointed with the number on the scale (my recent problem).

The next article I read was "Exercising with High Cholesterol". My cholesterol numbers is one of the things my doctor wants me to work on, so I chose this article looking for a little advice. The article explained that consistency is more important than intensity, Good news for me since intense exercise is not where I am at right now. Another good thing to know was that it will take about 12 weeks before any noticeable changes will occur. One of those stick with it no matter what rules.

So all in all - starting slow, taking it easy and just being consistent are the best advice for me right now.