Obesity Discussion Forums

[Dustin]

Okay, folks.

I need some serious help in these areas:

1. Eating healthier.
2. Sleep less.
3. Routinely Exercising.

I usually have 7-8 days off a month and usually only work about ~45 hours a week. I know I have plenty of time to manage all the aforementioned things, I just can't seem to get myself kick-started. When I first started my new job position (which was roughly two months ago), I was putting a lot of my energy and focus into my work.

Now that I seem to be on the right path with work, I need to learn to moderate time between my professional and personal life.

I used to be pretty good about checking up on the board every day (Why shouldn't I? There's a lot of good information on OD).

When I was 19 I was 170lbs and physically fit. Over the last few years I've progressively let myself go. Rather than trying to work on my physical appearance, I constantly reminisce about my youth. Don't get me wrong, I've lightly worked out, off and on, over the years. I need to reestablish some discipline and consistency.

I'll come home from work, unwind, then dabble around on the computer when I could be out walking my dog or at the gym.

Everyone has some motivating factor for staying in shape, what is yours? Mine is avoiding heart disease and, being a cancer prone individual, to avoid exacerbating possible health complications later on down the road. I find myself depressed sometimes, I think exercise and proper diet are the main culprits. Another thing is, I know that I'm a handsome guy, but, haven't had any luck with women over the last couple years. I wouldn't doubt that my weight is causing my bad luck (self confidence, appearance, etc). You would think with all these thoughts going through my head, I'd get off my ass and do something about it.

Would anyone that lives in the Phoenix area be down to meet up, say, maybe twice a month to partake in some exercise activities (hiking, basketball, etc.)?

- Dustin

[Obesity Discussion]

Originally Posted by Dustin

Okay, folks.

I need some serious help in these areas:

1. Eating healthier.
2. Sleep less.
3. Routinely Exercising.

I usually have 7-8 days off a month and usually only work about ~45 hours a week. I know I have plenty of time to manage all the aforementioned things, I just can't seem to get myself kick-started. When I first started my new job position (which was roughly two months ago), I was putting a lot of my energy and focus into my work.

Now that I seem to be on the right path with work, I need to learn to moderate time between my professional and personal life.

I used to be pretty good about checking up on the board every day (Why shouldn't I? There's a lot of good information on OD).

When I was 19 I was 170lbs and physically fit. Over the last few years I've progressively let myself go. Rather than trying to work on my physical appearance, I constantly reminisce about my youth. Don't get me wrong, I've lightly worked out, off and on, over the years. I need to reestablish some discipline and consistency.

I'll come home from work, unwind, then dabble around on the computer when I could be out walking my dog or at the gym.

Everyone has some motivating factor for staying in shape, what is yours? Mine is avoiding heart disease and, being a cancer prone individual, to avoid exacerbating possible health complications later on down the road. I find myself depressed sometimes, I think exercise and proper diet are the main culprits. Another thing is, I know that I'm a handsome guy, but, haven't had any luck with women over the last couple years. I wouldn't doubt that my weight is causing my bad luck (self confidence, appearance, etc). You would think with all these thoughts going through my head, I'd get off my ass and do something about it.

Would anyone that lives in the Phoenix area be down to meet up, say, maybe twice a month to partake in some exercise activities (hiking, basketball, etc.)?

- Dustin

I know Mike B is always looking for someone to play basketball with, and I'd be down to play with you guys after November; I'm booked like you wouldn't believe until then.

Have you tried making out a schedule for yourself? I find it easier to get things done when I have it written down to do. Regarding sleep, that's a big one, and I'm guilty too, but I just don't have time. Try getting into your bed early, maybe grab a book and a hot drink, and isolate yourself from the computer, TV, etc.

It's easier to go workout if you have a partner I've found. Is there anyone you know you could partner up with? Maybe setup a reward system for when you meet your goals?

Try putting a picture of a skinny you on the fridge, or on your computer, so that way when you open your laptop you'll be staring at what you want to get back to. It's hard to ignore when it's staring you in the face.

[dreamblooms]

Hi Dustin,

Your #1: In what ways do you not eat healthy? You sound as if you already know...but why?

[Dustin]

Matt - I definitely need to write up some sort of schedule, that will help. As far as working out, I'm pretty much just by myself (unless you consider an iPod a partner).

Dreamblooms - I just need to start going grocery shopping and learn how to cook my meals a day or two in advance (mainly for my lunch at work), rather than eating out all the time. It's expensive and not as healthy.

I know what needs to be done, it's just actually getting to where I need to be is the epidemic.


- Dustin

[Audrey]

I find with myself it helps to start at the beginning of something. Like the beginning of the month? Luckily we have a new month coming up right away

Start calling November your "Month of Healthy Living". When I went back to school this fall I knew I would be temped by all the junk I used to eat when I was in school, so I started call this "My Semester of Health". I'd joke about it with my friends, and then if I was temped to buy something they'd say "But what about your semester of health?" and it would keep me in line.

Maybe journal your progress? I love my little food diary (and my blog here on OD).

[dreamblooms]

Originally Posted by Dustin

Matt - I definitely need to write up some sort of schedule, that will help. As far as working out, I'm pretty much just by myself (unless you consider an iPod a partner).

Dreamblooms - I just need to start going grocery shopping and learn how to cook my meals a day or two in advance (mainly for my lunch at work), rather than eating out all the time. It's expensive and not as healthy.

I know what needs to be done, it's just actually getting to where I need to be is the epidemic.


- Dustin

Hi Dustin,

You're right. Eating out is expensive, and health-wise, you don't know what kind of crap they put in their food. No food's as good for you as what you can prepare for yourself. As soon as I can figure out how to post recipes, I will. I've got many that are easy, No fat, No Sugar...and when I cook I make enough for a regiment, then freeze what's leftover in the skillet(s) in a stack of Ziplocs for the freezer. I work too, so in the morning I just pull out a Ziploc, let it thaw in the sink, and when I get home it's ready to heat & eat!

When I'm really organized I even label the bulging Ziplocs. They get frosted over in the freezer & it's somewhat hard to see what's in them. I peek. I sniff. I promise myself to label them next time. But they're all super healthy, what's the diff? (They'll stay cool in the sink. Often when I come home they're still part frozen.)

I'll post recipes for you. I'm also copying more great recipes from a diet book I got recently. Two good sources. Soo...recipes coming for you!

[MikeB]

D I'm down whenever, I live near MetroCenter and if I remember you're super close. Hit me up on AIM and I'll give you my cell and you are welcome to come by whenever. I have a membership at the LA Fitness club off Northern & the 17 or you can meet up on the weekends for some B-ball. Starting next week wrestling practice starts M-W-F night for me in Tempe with my son but I'll have Tue/Thur off. You can also hit up Inlove as she also works out at the gym and is always looking for a workout partner.

[inlove]

If you need help let me know!! I workout M-T and SAturday too. But I normally go at 8:30 at night. So hit me up if you need assistance!!! I am a bit annoying and anal about working out so if you need someone to push you let me know.

[Dustin]

Thanks for the quality suggestions, folks, a lot of good information.

I'm definitely going grocery shopping next Monday and will get an elaborate list of quality foods (fruits, veggies, etc) going before I actually go.

I'm definitely down to have some people to work out with, that'd be terrific. When my friend Steve lived on the same side of town as me, we'd work out together.

[inlove]

Where are you at Dustin?

[Dustin]

Well, I took the first step today by going grocery shopping and buying some heart-healthy foods (namely Oatmeal).

I'll be signing up at a gym ASAP. I was at Pure Fitness, but, am no longer a member. Any recommendations? I want cheap.

[inlove]

LA FITNESS!! Not necessarily cheap as far as down payment....but they work with you. They allowed me to pay the down payment in 3 payments!!

And good job on the shopping!!!

[Obesity Discussion]

24hr fitness is one of the cheapest. They have specials all the time, like $24-$29/mo.

[dreamblooms]

Originally Posted by Dustin

Well, I took the first step today by going grocery shopping and buying some heart-healthy foods (namely Oatmeal).

I'll be signing up at a gym ASAP. I was at Pure Fitness, but, am no longer a member. Any recommendations? I want cheap.

Bravo, Dustin! Well done. Hang in there!

[Dustin]

Originally Posted by dreamblooms

Bravo, Dustin! Well done. Hang in there!

* Takes a bow *

I'm making my lunch for work as we speak.

[inlove]

LA FITNESS is $24.00 a month. You are doing great!!!! keep it up

[inlove]

How about this for some homework......If you can try to walk this weekend for 30 minutes each day!

[Dustin]

Originally Posted by inlove

How about this for some homework......If you can try to walk this weekend for 30 minutes each day!

Done and done.

I'm loving the additional money that I save by preparing my own food. ENORMOUS difference!

[Obesity Discussion]

Double benefit; save money and eat better.

[Dustin]

Originally Posted by Obesity Discussion

Double benefit; save money and eat better.

Isn't that the truth.

I'm averaging about $7/day for my food, from breakfast to dinner (including snacks).