[ZeroTX]

Hello forum,

Well, this is my first post here, and frankly, I haven't even had a chance to browse around much. However, I figured since my account was activated that I would go ahead and introduce myself and get straight to the point.....

I'm 32 years old, 6' tall, 348lbs, and I've been over 300lbs for at least the last 16 years. I was over 200lbs by age 12, and I was considered "chubby" by age 6. I consider that I've been obese for the vast majority of my life... some due to genetics, some due to poor eating habits and lack of activity (though, I would point out that the lack of activity has to do with how difficult it is to be an active adolescent when you are already 100lbs overweight).

In any case, I'm ready to drop at least 100lbs (my goal is 225lbs stable weight). The plan is better eating (though, frankly, I don't eat as bad as what you would think... I eat at home, lean meats, veggies, NO sugared soft drinks in the past 10 years, etc.)... better eating, yes, but no crazy diets, just balanced and reasonable. Part 2? Workouts. I've never taken this route before, but I'm doing it this time. I've lost as much as 50 pounds on food-adjustment-only diets, but never done any real exercise beyond moderate walks. No more. I've joined a gym that's near my home and also has a location near my work. I am doing 20 minutes of weights and 30 minutes of cardio (mostly treadmill, because the other machines hurt my knees). I would like to increase (steadily) the intensity of the weights (to build some upper-body bulk) and the length AND intensity of the cardio (would like to shoot for 45 minutes and much faster speeds eventually).

I hope to get some support here.... help me lose 100lbs THIS YEAR!!

Thanks all,

Michael