This group is for anyone who is into weight lifting in addition to cardiovascular activity. Share philosophies, programs, routines, diets or anything else you want to share. The goal is to keep each other inspired, motivated and on track!
So I've been at my AT for the Army for the last two weeks. I gain 5 pounds!! No workout time no sleep and this is what happens. I hit the gym today like I owned it. Back to tracking my food I'm 8 weeks out to my next show.
My workouts have been slacking. I had a friend of mine take pictures of me in a swimsuit to see where i was at. I have work to do!
Hi all!
As I suspected, I didn't make it to the gym at all last week. I felt guilty but it gave my
body a good rest and this week I've been really strong in the weight room--do you think
that's related? I did notice that I lost a bit of endurance. My first run on Monday was a
struggle and all week it's been hard to get my speed up. Anywho, knowing i'm busy today i
did a great full body workout last night and dragged my butt to the gym for cardio this
morning. Today is rest and tomorrow i'm going hot yoga and probably going for a jog. Have
a great weekend!
I had great workouts last week and this weekend --I'm tight
and sore. I'm pleased that I hit it hard last week because my husband is graduating
(getting his MBA) this Friday and I’m going to be busy this week with work and preparing
for an open house on Saturday. I'm hoping to fit in some late night or early morning
workouts but I may settle for a couple of runs with my dog and body weight exercises
throughout the day. i.e. I just did dips from my desk and I hung a pull-up bar on my
bathroom door
Glad to hear your workouts are going well! IÂ have been feeling pretty good in the weight room. We have no AC down there, so I am going through a bit of an adjustment period this week with the warmer weather. Sometimes I feel like I'm doing cardio down there... Thank God for chalk!
Congrats to your husband and hey, do what you gotta do! Looks like you have a good plan layed out:) Have a great weekend!
Thank! No ac in the weight room would be very different! I was thinking about it and it may not be bad--I love hot yoga and I always spend time in the sauna--maybe i wouldn't mind a hot weight room? Anyway, good luch this week and let me know how your competition prep progresses!
Show number two is in 12 weeks I need to be a good girl and get my mind right and get back in the game! I've put on 4 pd since the last show back up to 126 time to get to work starting today!!!
A much needed and well deserved break I'm sure. Good luck on the next show Tammy!
Hi Everybody!
I'm so excited about joining you all! I'm pretty new to Livestrong.com, and I wasn't sure
if I'd be able to find a group like this. Do you guys compete? I compete in figure. It's
been about two years since my last show, and I am itching to get back on stage!
Unfortunately, I have more weight to lose than I would like to, but I started 25 weeks
out, so I should be fine. I plan to do the NPC Natural Northern USA in Ohio on 10/6. 23.5
weeks out:)
Looking forward to chatting with you all!
Sarah
You must be excited! How is the prep feeling this time? Good luck Sarah! keep us posted on your progress!
Thanks ommartin! It feels great to be in contest prep mode again:) It's definitely exciting, especially after taking some time away from the stage. Have you competed before?
Ive been MIA and still will be, I just wanted drop in and say hi. I've been in school and have been super busy with that. I finish in the middle of June and then I am going to work on getting my CPT certificate and my injury prevention training certificate. There isnt a huge need for personal trainers here but there are a few regulars and both of the present PTs are moving this summer. So I figure it would be enough to get me some experience before I get back to the states. Once I get back I am going to apply to a school to get my degree in Physical Therapy Assistance. Ive been taking a nutrition class that I have learned a lot in. There is so much information though so I am still trying to figure out how to apply everything. Anyway, I just thought I would let you all know why I'm not around right now and wish everyone well. I am still trying to lose weight but can only manage to gain it. Not in large increments but it is very frusterating. It's all diet for me. I have a ton of muscle but the layer of fat just hangs around on top. I need to develop will power. Ugh!
So my show was this last weekend. I place 4th. I hope I will do better in July when I will try again. But not bad for my first time. So now I need to get back on track.I've been cheating whole lot this last weekend after the show.
Congratulations Tammy! What an accomplishment! I agree that 4th is a quality placing for your first show. Did you get any feedback from the judges? I think i would eat EVERYTHING after a competition!
The feed back I got was I need to work on my walk & posing,and not look like a deer in the headlights when I first get on stage. So I'm going to take some more classes on posing and walking.
I started a new job when I returned from Indiana in January so it has taken me some time to adjust. I don't know how faithfully I will be able to log...it seems like I have no time anymore, lol, but I am going to try. I would like to be at 135 by my birthday in July so it's time to get moving! I'm going to a new mix for this three month period: 2 full body workouts and one plyometrics per week, Bikram yoga 3 times a week and Insanity. Good luck to me!!! Hope things are going well for everyone!
Good luck to you!
As I'm reading your post I expected crazy workouts and then you added Insanity to the end! You are officially hard core! I hope you are happy at your new position!
Good luck! We are thinking of you!
OMG! I was up 5lbs this morning from Friday! I expected to be up a bit but not 5 lbs!
I celebrated Easter by spending the weekend with my family and I did loosen up my diet to
include what they were serving but I still made good choices and controlled my portions
--like only having fruit for breakfast, passing on the rolls,potatoes, salad dressing and
desserts at dinner! I did have wine and a handful of jelly beans on Sunday but I also went
on a 3 mile jog first thing in the morning and drank 80 oz of water both days. I am upset.
I really thought I struck a good balance.
I am holding out hope that most of that weight is water retention from salty food and will
be gone tomorrow (reaching for my water bottle)!
Update: This morning I was down 3.5 lbs. That seems crazy to me but I guess I was retaining a lot of water! Hopefully the other pound and a half will be gone when I wake up tomorrow! I played a sweaty game of tennis yesterday and today I plan to run, lift and sit in the sauna.
I hate when that happens to me! Not fair.
Sorry for all my posts, i think its helping me clear my head! So dr says im fine after telling me an xray showed a stress fracture and the MRI report said slight tear in my Achillies...go figure. But doctors know best...so I will be back at it. Starting Friday, Im getting in the gym and nothing will stop me.
That does seem odd but I guess it's good news! Good luck on Friday!
Thanks! Stay tuned - I still am debating a second opinion. I may just buy a brace at CVS for support and call it a day, all these co-pays for nothing are adding up! How are things with you?
Great! Thanks for asking! I buckled down and have lost 6 lbs in the last 3 weeks! I believe it is mostly fat loss but i don't have calipers so I can't be sure. I do know that I'm a lot stronger!
I've been lifting and running 5 days per week and steadily increasing both my weight and intensity of cardio. My goal is to continue this trend and lose 5 more lbs this month to hit my weight goal. My next goal is to keep up this schedule for the summer to see where it takes me...maybe Tammy's success will inspire me to sign up for a competition?! sounds scary!
Thats awesome! Im scared to go back and lift today, I am going to be so weak. Ive been laying around feeling sorry for myself! I cant wait to hear about Tammys show - I have always pondered it. Random you bring it up, I was reading the local paper here yesterday and they did a whole front page article about how fitness shows are coming back to this area...perhaps its a sign?? Â
I have been struggling to workout - had my MRI yesterday, hope to get my results tomorrow morning so at least I know what I am facing. This whole thing has put me in such a down mood. I have to find the strength to get motivated. Ive lost like 6-7lbs from not going to the gym, I know thats all my muscle I worked for!
I'm sorry to here that Care! Make youself do back, abs and upper body! Lift heavy and build the heck out of those body parts! You might as well--leggs are easy to build back up. You can do it!
Well after my dr appointment today, they tell me i am fine. Apparently an xray showing a stress fracture and an MRI report that said i slightly tore my Achillies, my dr says nope, you are fine go about your business. WHAT?
I'm 11 days out to my show. I've been working so hard. How are all of you doing?
You must be so excited, cant wait to hear how it goes!!!
I have been thinking about you Tammy and sending positive thoughts and energy your way! How do you feel? Is your diet harder or easier than you anticipated at this point? How about training? I'm so curious about this process! GOOD LUCK!
A quick update on me: I've been hitting the gym harder for the past two weeks and finally broke through my plateau! I've lost 4lbs and i'm feeling stronger at the gym. I took two rest days over the weekend to accomodate a busy schedule and a killer calf cramp but I started week 3 with a great workout yesterday.  I've really cleaned up my plate as well to give myself an honest chance to make some progress. I've also increased my H2O to 96-128 oz per day. I'm hoping to drop 5 more lbs of fat in the next two weeks and then maintain.
The diet is by far the harder part I love to train. I feel run down and ready for it to be over I have a nother show the following weekend in MA. I must say I LOVE the way my body looks right now. What alot of work over 2 hours a day and the another 30 mins posing. My body hurt all the time I know I'm over training I've lost my lady time of the month from over training. But I'm almost there. I can't wait!!! I lifting a hour a day and cardio a hour a day but the week of i stop lifting 3 days out or so I hear.
It is exciting how close you are! Do you take any rest days at this point or do you just cycle body parts to give rest? I'm impressed that you signed up for a second show the following week. I hope you win both!Â
The diet is what keeps me from doing it. It seems like my entire social life would have to end. I can stick to a strict diet for a while even with social activities but I don't think i could do it for the months it takes to prep for a competition. You are showing some inspirational dedication!
Tammy, I'm curious--if you don't mind sharing what is your plate like at this point? How have your macro's changed as you approach the competition?
Just left the Dr, took xrays think i fractured my foot...MRI on monday :-( I feel so helpless, Ive lost 3 lbs...its prob all muscle!
I'm sorry. I hope you find something you can do to keep going. Bench press, work upper body,abs I don't know that just sucks!
Huge bummer Care! How did you do it? I agree with Tammy--don't lose hope!
About a month ago, i was rushing down my stairs in heels to work, tripped rolled my ankle, thought nothing of it. Kept working out, cardio, whatever. All of a sudden i was like woah, this still hurts and a ton worse. So combo of not going to the dr and my inability to navigate stairs!Â
Â
I do need to keep motivated. I have stayed out of the gym, just until the decide what to do with it, they havent put me in a brace or anything. But I agree, I have to keep doing upper body and abs.Â
Thanks for the concern guys! 
How is everyone doing? I admit, still fighting my slump, but trying to get back. I ate a
donut, it was in the break room. But I ate healthy the rest of the day...i think back
tonight, what do you guys usually train with back? I have heard of deadlifts but never
done them, are they for legs or back or both?
Hope all is well
Care
Hi care!
I'm doing pretty good. My body is hurting from a killer ployo workout this weekend. I have a posing class today. I do Back and Lat togather it looks like this:
1 arm pull ups  3 sets each side in 3 positions
lat pull downs   3 sets each side
standing row     3 sets
dead lift                3 sets
incline dumbbell rows 3 sets
I hope this helps.
Tammy W
Â
WOW - you are killing it! I would like to encorproate dead lifts into my routine but need someone to show me how, i hear its an excersise that if not done correctly, you can really get hurt! I did Legs on saturday, im still limping around :-)
Hey Care,
I'm right there with you -- I'm fight ing a slump as well. Work became super stressful the past couple of weeks and the stress completely killed my motivation to do anything but just come home and crash.   I was working 10+ hr days for about 2 weeks straight, commuting 1 hr each way, and not getting home until after 7pm... Just finally starting feel rested and normal again, but my motivation to hit the gym is non-existent. I just gotta go... That's it. No excuses. I gotta get my crap together and just make myself hit the gym. Due to my work schedule and location, an AM workout is out of the question...Â
Hope you're doing alright. Tammy, keep kicking butt! You're doing awesome!
Toodles!
I'm doing better at the gym! I had to make an appointment w the DR about my ankle/foot - keeping me from doing cardio. But I have been hitting the weights and really trying to watch my diet due to lack of cardio!
Hi Care!
I've been MIA from LSÂ but doing really well at the gym! fo to bodybuilding.com and watch the videos on deadlift. Then when you attempt it for the first time do only 75% of the weight you can do (3 sets, 12 reps) so you aren't too sore.
Good luck!
OMG I just went shopping for some thing to wear to the show in VT this weekend and I'm a size 0! Sorry I just had to tell someone. I'm so happy the gym and eating 6 clean meals a day is paying off!!! Thank you to LIVE STRONG for the meal tracker . I won't have the net in VT this weekend so Im packing and counting all of my meals this morning. My back and lats are on fire form my last workout. I think I'm going to give my body the day off and just do cardio today before we leave for the 4 hour road trip. I hope you all have a great weekend and get in a few good workouts.
That is so great, and so inspiring!!! I need to get back on track! That inspires me tho!! Good work!
I'm way late on commenting but this is exciting! Good work Tammy! I hope you had a great trip!
I am still in my funk - didnt go to the gym at all Fri-Sun. I have to go to day. I dont
know what is wrong with me. I dont want to lose the progress I have made. Maybe i need
to start forcing myself to go before work because after I am so sleepy? I'm not really
sure, but I am very mad at myself. Hopefully everyone else had a better weekend!
I find the workouting part to be the easy part I always go first thing in the morning. If I waited to after work I'm afaid it wouldn't happen. I'm  just to run down by the end of the day.I hit my legs hard this morning so I did skip my cardio so I'm going to try to make it up tonight. I'm feeling run down i'VE WORKED EVERY DAY FOR THE LAST 21 DAY! Thank Good I have this weekend off and I'm going to VT to the Green MT thaw show I'm hoping it will be just what I need to get back to it! To tell you the truth I'm just feeling very pissy people have been letting me down left and right. I still haven't gotten my suit back the pears are on back order and it's pissing me off. The guy I'm haveing make my cd still isn't done and it's been month im down to the last 6 weeks I need this stuff now! Sorry to be so down.
You are entitled, that would make me angry too - and its Monday to top it off! (I walked in my office to find i have a new boss who started today - REALLY?) I should go in the morning, any secret to getting your butt out of bed!? LOL! Thats my problem my bed is so warm!Â
I totally admire you killing it for the past 21 days! How are you feeling body wise, forgetting all the other issues? Do you feel you look ready to compete?  I am sure you look great and will kick butt!
New boss that sucks! I get up EVERY day at the same time and go to bed at the same time. up at 4am everyday. My body feels pretty good. I feel ready now I just hope I can keep it up.
I get up every morning around 5am, and try to leave for the gym by 6:30am. I get up with my husband and fell off the wagon Jan. & Feb. I only just this month got back into staying up. The bed was so warm and all I wanted was to curl back under the covers, but I make my husband breakfast and check my email, and once I get on the computer it wakes me up. Also I'll turn on the morning news or music to wake me up. Coffee helps too. =)
I've gone 3 mornings in row this week! I'm so happy with that. Doing weight training on the weekend. Good luck, don't beat your self up to much, just take it one day at a time and push your self, I give myself a reward at the end of the week if I make it to the gym all week and not miss a workout. lol. Whatever works right?
I really do need to try the morning thing, its just like 30 degree out! But no excuse. Also i hate the idea of showering at the gym and going to work...yuck. But small price to pay. I have just been in a funk, but cant let an ex break my spirit!Â
So I'm down to 123pd and 18% bady fat looking great, gyms going good but I want to eat all the time and I'm having a hard time saying no to myself! I'm 6 weeks out till my show and I shouldn't be playing around with bad food choices but how do I stop wanting to eat all the time. HELP ME PEOPLE!!!!
LOL - see my post above, im struggling too. I know its easier said than done because i cant seem to follow it myself, but keep your eye on your goal. When i am hungry for something bad, i find anything to distract myself, even like cleaning the bathroom!Â
I dont know what it is lately, I have hit a wall, plateau, whatever! What keeps you guys moving? At the gym, I just cant push myself and dont know why, maybe I need a training buddy. Then I get mad I am not seeing results fast enough - well duh, my own fault!
you could sign up for a competition! Personally, I give myself a couple rest days when I feel I need it and pretty soon I feel so guilty I go back and kick my own butt! Sometimes I'll take a kick-fit or spinning class to force myself to get a good cardio session when I've been not pushing it very hard on my own. I'm sure your idea of a workout buddy would work but it's always been hard for me to schedule consistantly. Get in there and do it Care! :)
I'm actually pondering the idea of a competition...I dont know, I have a fear of failing so, that gets in the way! But you are right, classes help because then you know at X time you have to be at the gym. I think I will do spinning tomorrow and get myself back into it!!!Â
I have a competition coming soon, but I haven't gotten results besides losing a
few pounds since I started some 12 days ago or so.
I'm
currently at 126 pounds and hope to drop some more until then, but I'd
rather gain at least a little bit of muscle definition, or at least eliminate some extra
flab. Anyone have any idea how I can maximize my time to create a toned physique in such a
short amount of time? Any tips on diet? My diet currently consists of vegetables and
fruits, fish oil, eggs, chicken, oatmeal, small bits of whole wheat bread here and
there, 8cups of water (with apple cider vinegar), tons of white and green tea, sometime
pu-erh. What should I be eating to balance out healthy weight loss while still
providing adequate nutrition for muscle gain?
What
workout methods should I employ? Twice-a-day resistance training? My biggest issue is my
butt. It's quite round and without much muscle (39.5"), and I'm afraid it won't look that
great in a swimsuit in front of fitness judges...
Any
help from the experts would be appreciated. Thank you!
Drop the fuit and bread. NONE for you or me. My show is in 7 weeks I'm down to 124. Also only the egg whites not the whole egg to many cals.
Where is your body fat %? You can try carb cycling=no veggies or other starches after lunch. When will you start cutting out salt? or have you already?
I'm going to wait to cut my salt till a week or two before my show.
 Been doing the egg white only thing, and luckily for me, I've baarely consumed any bread, so I guess I'm on the right track! Thanks, Tammy! I'm also starting p90x to shape up, and I'm surprised it's not as bad as I thought it would be. This all seems pretty attainable.Â
ommartin-Currently at 25% :/
 Oh, and I haven't cut salt, just no extra sugars like dessert, naturally. Diet alone was working,  I've gone down about 5 pounds in the past two weeks, but the scale hasn't been moving. So, hopefully muscles are growing.Â
How was everyones weekend? Get some good workouts in?!
I had Army training class ALL weekend and drill next week end. I got up and worked out at 3am one morning and 4 am the next morning! I did get a workout in both days but not my 2 hour kill it weekend workout~
Oh my goodness...that is EARLY! But awesome for you for doing it! I got my workouts in as well, I tried a new class at the gym, its a 30 min MMA based boxing cardio class, 30 min doesnt sound long but wow! I hurt today man! I just want to see more definition and I know its diet that is my downfall, I am such a sucker for bad food!Â
3 and 4am is crazy early. I would have to be in bed alseep by 7 or 8pm! You are dedicated Tammy!
I didn't workout over the weekend. I did all week and then celebrated by birthday out of town so I planned a rest. I did get back to the gym this week and got a particularly great workout in yesterday. I'm fighting a cold but hoping I can just sweat it out!
hey y'all! I'm new to lifting and could use any tips you may want to give me!! THANKS~~
Well to start, what are your goals? Tone your muscles, build them? Any areas you want to focus on?Â
I spent all morning working on my T walk. I think I almost have it down Im going to start working on it every day from now till the show!
what is a T walk?
A T walk is the walk you do on stage you go to the front ,right then the left then back to the middle. At each place you do your turns. So anyway they call it a Twalk cuz it's in the shape of a T. I'm work on my posing now it's a lot harder then you may think.
Ah, that makes sense! Yes, I've heard it is very difficult! A good friend of mine competes and I'm always amazed at how much time she dedicates to posing practice toward the end. What I think would be the hardest is to look relaxed in your face while you're flexing every muscle as hard as you can! Also the hands! I would have to make a fist! lol! Good luck Tammy! I can't wait to hear about your competition!
How exciting for you!!! I started looking into doing a show, I had NO idea how much prep work went into it, I really admire the time and dedication you are putting into all this and know you are going to ROCK IT!
Hi, I'm new to the forums, but not new Livestrong. I live in the UK, I'm a 46 yr old SAHM
to eight children, some grown up and flown the nest, my 5th grandbaby is due in 8weeks .
Over the last 5 years I have lost 88lbs, and on the way to getting fitter have become
hooked on /bodybuilding
I am now entering my first figure comp in july, My competition diet starts in a few
weeks, my trainer thinks I will have to lose 16-20lbs to compete. I love my weight
training and train on a 4 day split, I only do 1 hour cardio per week at most.
I hope to get to know you all!
K x
Wow! That is exciting! Keep us updated here and we will cheer you on!
Hi Karryann! Nice to meet you. My name is Tammy and I'm also training for my first figure show. Mine is April 14! Good luck and keep us posted!
I'm ashamed to say I've wanted to do a competition since I was in my early 20's. Excuses ensued and I never did one. That is my one true regret in my life. I am impressed with you and wish you so much luck! Keep us posted on this adventure.
Biceps and abs today with 45 mins of cardio.My earrings I had made to match my suit came
in today! I have a posing class this weekend! I have my song picked out it's Jagger.Down
another pound this week I'm hoping for a few more by April 14. I'm down to 126 I would
love 118 but I'll take 123 if I can get it. I'm losing about a pound every 2 weeks. So how
is everyone doing this week so far. Who made is with out cheating on V day? I did go over
my set cal by 100 but I didn't cheat. Wednesday is my GLUTES and LEG day oh the joy of the
Smith Machine! Have a great week everyone.
Nice! Posing class should be interesting. I did well for v-day we stayed in and I cooked a healthy version of shrimp enchillada's but I did make and eat molten lava cake with my husband. It was a planned cheat and well worth it! Of course my diet is not nearly as strict as yours. I'm also down a pound today and it feels good!
Almost forgot--Just cardio today! I'm planning to run 2.5 miles on the treadmill and sit in the sauna for 20 minutes.
Thats awesome - sounds like you are getting everything together! I cheated...I have to get back on track, one bad meal leads to another and i cant let it!Â
warm up: treadmill jog 5 minutes, jum[ squats x 10
3 sets each:
leg press, plie dumbbell squat, clean, barbell side split squat (the first time I've done
these and I don't like them, after one set I switched to single leg squats body weight),
leg extension, leg curl, calf raises
Treadmill 15 minutes--just trying to not trip over my jello legs!
Post your workout!
When feeling run down, do you take the day off from training, or go lighter? I was conflicted this weekend, I felt like I was getting a cold so i took both days off and took vitamins and medicine and got sleep. But I feel guilty for not working out...so I ask, is it better to take the time off, or go and do a little cardio or something?
If you are run down stay home and get rest for a few days but I think it can actually help to work up a sweat when you have a cold or feel like you are getting one. I wouldn't go all out and do a grueling workout but I would do a light to normal workout followed by some time in the steam room. If you get the flu it's a different story because you may be dizzy or weak and injure yourself.
I hope you feel better soon!
Thanks! I think its just a cold, Ive been doing light cardio. Stupid weather in the northeast has gone from freezing to 50 back to freezing, i think its messing with everyones immune systems!Â
It's been like that here in the Midwest too! I got the worst cold I’ve had in years! My doctor suggested I take a zinc supplement every day and it seems to be helping.
My family is from Michigan and has said the same thing, its been a crazy winter! I will have to try a zinc supplement, i assume you can grab those at your local pharmacy?Â
What do you eat or drink before a morning workout? I can't do it on an empty stomach anymore but I also don't have time to let a normal breakfast digest enough to not feel sick. Any good tricks?
Protein bar on the way to the gym, i keep them in my car!!!Â
Good idea Care but I just hate how they taste! Which brand do you like? I just found a recipe on Oxygen for Protein Peanutbutter Balls that I'm going to try: http://www.oxygenmag.com/Nutrition/Articles/Peanut-Butter-Protein-Balls.aspx
I workout at 5am so all I have is coffee. I drink my protein when I'm done lifting before I start my cardio.
Sorry I just saw this to reply - I hate the taste of most of them too! I eat Detour brand, the peanut carmel ones. They arent too bad, and I am not a huge fan of anything peanut...but they are good!Â
What a great day! It started at 5 am when a young man came up to me and said he would do
anything to be cut and have abs like me! Then I came home at lunch to find my suit for my
show came in. Terry sent it to me for a fitting and you know what it fit like a glove! and
I love it! I also found someone to make my earring to match! It's all coming togather. I'm
really going to do this. At 41 I going to go drop it like it's hot! lol.
That is awesome! Congrats! All your hard work is paying off!
Congratulations! What great validation for all of your hard work! Where did you order your suit from?
Tracy Tuttle Edward made my suit for me. Check her out on facebook! I want to oder another one they are so over the top hot!
How is everyone doing this week!?
Any suggestions for protein? Without the calories or fat? I do the shakes, I do the bars but obviously cant eat those all day every day!
egg whites. I do hard boiled and don't eat the yolk. Also quinoa, chicken breast, talapia is really easy and greek yogurt are among my favorites :)
Thanks! Hard boiled is a good idea...can do them the night before. I also do take greek yougrt! I guess i just have to be more aware of what I am packing for lunch to try and make the best combination possible while at work.Â
Yes, I boil a whole dozen at a time so I have them for the work week.
I swear packing a lunch and snack for work...saves calories money....I just always forget to do it!
I pack all of my meals I have to eat 6 times a day and every thing is always packed and ready to roll out the door. I love egg whites to I eat them every morning with my oatmeal. I also do greek yoguri every day somes 2 times a day. Also tuna and chicken breast with no bones or skin.
I wasnt as bad as expected yesterday watching the game...yes I had some pizza and a wing or two and a few beers. Did legs yesterday, can barely move today. I think tonight at the gym will be cardio, abs and shoulder and tris. Very exciting monday! Hope everyone had a good weekend!
On this side of the world we got the Super Bowl at 8:00 am Monday morning. We went to a restaurant that played the game while leaving a breakfast buffet out the whole time. So IÂ proceeded to eat wrong again and way to much but there is always tomorrow. IÂ only got in a 40 min treadmill run today but atleast I did something. I think tomorrow is upper body. Here's to tomorrow!
So I didn't get to work out at all this weekend thank you Army. I got to sit in a class room for 13 hours a day! Thank God I packed my own food. They feed them carbs and more carbs with a side of carbs! I'm going to a two week class in Aug and I can't bring my own food and there is no pt. This sucks! I'm going to hit it so hard in the am to make up for this weekend. It's my chest day I'm also going to hit my abs and get in 35 mins of high cardio.Maybe a little bit of step class to. I start my new meal plan this week. down to 1324 cal and 131 carb and 150 protein.I stay on this one for the next 2 weeks. Wish me luck!
Gald you are back Tammywhit. Have fun rockin your next 2 week plan.
That is a lot of protein! It will all be worth it when you are confident up on that stage! Good luck!
Where is everyone? How is your progress? Im starting to get a bit frusterated at the numbers on the scale because I have been doing everything right. But I did measure atleast my waist today and it seems that I have lost about 1/2 an inch in my waist. So I guess that means progress. I hope everyone is doing well.
I know what it's like to no see the numbers week after week. Since I started my new diet my numbers are going down each week. but I have drill this week I hate to say but the Army makes me fat! It will be hard for me to eat every 3 hours and I won't have time to work out! I am packing a cooler and I hope I will have some time after my classes to work out. Today was my Back and Lat day. It was a good work out and I did cardio after that.
I'm not exactly where I want either but its my diet. I either have to say no to social events...or double up on my workouts. We had pizza wars (samples of pizza from the area for 5$ last night), chowder fest tomorrow - torture me with temptation. Tonight I am trying roller skating with my friends kiddos for a workout! I'll keep everyone posted if I survive without a trip to the ER! Â
I'm up two pounds from my post-flu weight loss which is actually good because I feel like my strength is back. I need to nail down my goals so I can better track progress.
Tammywhitt--I hope you can find a way to not be derailed this week! I know you are getting close to you competition! It must be hard to keep your energy up on a competition diet with drill week. Good luck! We are all thinking of you!
IÂ get what you say about the army making you fat tammywhit. My hubby is in the Army. Thankfully now he is on his own for PT but the years that he was required to do pt with everyone else was always such a waste of time.
Have fun roller skating Care. You will never catch me on those. The last time I did roller blades I ended up with road rash from the back of my knee to my butt. Let us know how it goes.
Glad you are feeling better ommartin. Let us know what your goals are so we can root you on.
I'm having an off week. Last week I pulled a glute muscle while squatting. It seemed to have re-aggrivated an old hamstring pull sustained last summer while water skiing... Top that off, earlier this week I was in a car accident... Huh... Just haven't felt like working out these past few days. I hit the gym Friday night, though. I made myself go in and do upper body. Felt good afterwards... I'm planning on getting in a spin class tomorrow morning...
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I'm maintaining at the moment as far as weight loss is concerned. Can't get my numbers to drop. But, my waist is smaller and my arms are toning up. So that's a plus...
Roller Skating was a success...really a great workout!!! Minus dodging little kids...
Wow that is great Jekkasol that you are still working so hard with all your trials. And kuddos on the shrinking waist. IÂ hope your injuries get better soon.
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Glad you had fun rollerskating Care28. Any injuries???
No injuries! May have used a few muscles I never knew I had...but no reportable injuries. I actually think once winter is over, I may get roller blades and work that into my routine. It was really fun!
So on friday I either broke or sprained my finger. So annoying at the gym. I cant hold any weight in my hand. I guess its abs, cardio,and weightless legs for a while.
That so sucks! Sorry I hate it when I can't do what I want to do! Be well.
I did a few upper body machines. Only ones that I didnt have to grasp. My finger was throbbing by the time I left but I got a great workout with a combo of the machines, 3 miles worth of running and drills on the track, and then the Summit Trainer. Feels so good to workout untill you have to drag yourself out of the gym!
I'm sorry, ouch! At least you arent saying forget the gym, and still doing what you can! I know a ton of people who will use the smallest thing to say, "I Cant go today"Â
Yep and it's more of the same today(:
Im currently using Isagenix and Muscle Milk Light...any other suggestions?
I like the Syntha 6. Chocolate Peanut Butter is my favorite.
I like Pure Protein and GNC lean shake.
I like the GNC Lean Shake as a meal replacement (afternoon snack), and I like the GNC AMP Amplified Wheybolic Extreme (powder) for post-workouts. The Wheybolic protien has additional BCAAs which assist in muscle recovery... I found that I was very sore after my workouts and wasn't recovering as quickly. I felt weak as if my mucsles were worn out. But, after incorporating the Wheybolic, I've noticed a positive change. I'm recovering faster and feel healthier, not so ragged...Â
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I actually just ordered more muscle milk light...if anyone uses it, go to bodybuilding.com, its on sale for buy 2 get 1 free. I couldnt resist the deal...only catch, all 3 have to be the same flavor!Â
I use Designer Whey. I like the flavors and consistancy. I also buy the single serving packs for post workout replenishment--I highly reccomend them! I have definitely noticed a difference in progress and soreness when I remember to shake them into my water bottle near the end of a workout.  I get them from Amazon where they are cheapest.
Oh Amazon...didnt think of that!!! Great Idea!
Took the weekend off - in my defense it was my birthday! Feel like a total slacker...have to get motivated today!!! Pull the diet back together (no more birthday cake!) and rock the gym tonight!
Happy birthday. Ther should be no appologies for slackin on your birthday. So long as you get back up and do it on monday. Have fun in the gym working off that cake though.
I sweat my rear off at the gym yesterday getting that cake off!  Its amazing you take a few days off and ugh...sluggish! Back in the swing this week! Thanks for the bday wishes!Â
I recently took a wellness class and learned that it takes weeks to begin loseing strength but only 3 days to begin losing endurance. Not fair! But important to know and it explains a lot.
Wow, that is a really good fact to know. I seriously did 30 min on the elliptical and was sweating like I ran a marathon.Â
This weight loss thing is starting to get soooo frustrating! I Just cant seem to do it. I have been exercising, eating well, and havent been eating sugar so why the high numbers?
I want to cheat soooo bad right now. I've been doing so good but tonight all I want is bad stuff. Maybe I should just go to bed maybe I feel better in the morning.
That is a trick that works wonders.
I swear by that, go to bed, and you will wake up with the cravings gone!Â
Just killed my upper body today... Arms and shoulders are feeling it... Oh yeah!
I know much of your middle is diet! But lower abs seem to be my trouble spot..well one fo them. Any suggestions for a good workout?
Do the exercise ball rollout. Where you kneel on your knees, put your elbows on the ball and roll out to a plank and roll in as you crunch. Good core workout. Just try to isolate the lower abs when you do it. Also just doing the plank is great to.
You can also do that exercise backwards where you have your ankles on the ball and your hands on the floor and you pull in and bend your knees doing a crunch. That one might even work better to isolate the lower abs.
Really good idea, i will try that tonight when Im at the gym!Â
I am now on day 7 of my no sugar kick. I had a rough time yesterday. I was craving and cranky. But I know I have to do this. A great body starts in the kitchen for sure. I knew I needed to do this for a long time but I am such a sugar addict. Its all or nothing for me. I wish I could be one of those people that reward themselves after a week but I am all or nothing. If I have any sugar it is all over. Plus I try to stay away from to much artificial sugar substitutes and I hate stevia. Ugh why does this have to be so hard? What do you guys do to keep your sugar under control?
Wow, keep up the great work! That's a tough challenge, but well worth it... When I hit a sugar craving that I can't kick, I turn to hot tea.... Keep it up Tammybees!!
Yeah that is what IÂ have been turning to here too. IÂ live in Korea and they have this great black berrie tea here. It is so yummy. It kind of tastes like jello but it is more soothing since it is hot so I can drink it slow and savor it.
Oh I love Korea! I was stationed Seoul for 3 years... Miss it. Love the spicy Korean food too! Mmmm...
Yes we love it here. My husband is stationed at Humphrys. We love the food.
How are you doing with the no sugar? That would be so hard. I have1 sugar in my morning coffee and thats it for added suger. I've been caving a bluecheese burger for days now. I can't even have the bun now neaver mind the burger. The day after my show I'm having half of one and a beer!
I did really good untill IÂ got all depressed this weekend and have eaten a ton of sugar for the past 4 days. Im going to try again tomorrow. Sounds like a good reward for your post show dinner. When is the big day?
I am new to the Livestrong site and am really hoping that it's the thing I've been needing
to actually acheive my goals. I am NOT a female body builder, but joined this group
because i want similar results, but to a lesser degree. A lot of the other groups are
centered around people needing to lose quite a few pounds. I am 25years old, 5'5", and
120-123 lbs (depending on the day). I don't want to lose weight per say, but I'd like to
become WAY more toned and lose the fat--especially around my stomach/hips/thighs. Right
now my main focus is just getting my eating on track because that is the hardest thing for
me.
Any advice to someone who is just starting out?
Thanks!
Sounds to me like you don't need to lose weight 120-123 is not much for someone who is 5ft 5in.What you need is to reduce bodyfat and get tone and get some muscle. I would start with picking up the weights at the gym. Women who lift weight burn more fat. Don't worry you won't look like a body builder or a man. Also start eating more protein. egg whites, chicken breast, Chobani greek yogure, fish.At the same time say way from fried or fast food! You may want to do some cardio to burn more fat. i would start with 30 mins a day a few days a week.I eat oatmeal every morning with 4 egg whites oatmeal keeps you full. egg whites are low fat. low carbs and low cal with high protein. Anyway thats a start good lucky! Let us know how your doing and what works or don't work for you!
 Thanks! Yea losing weight isn't really the goal, which is why the other groups didn't fit me very well.  I will definitely try out the oatmeal and egg whites!
Greek Yogurt is def good if you are like me and wake up and have to run to work!  I also keep oatmeal in my desk, its easy to make at work - just add hot water! I also keep snacks like almonds in my drawer to keep my out of the vending machines! I also bring a shaker with protien powder in it to have somwhere in the day to add extra protien, I tend to not get enough in my diet.Â
Try the per mix GNC Lean shake swiss chocolate! So good!
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Agree... The GNC Lean Shakes are delicious! I keep some at work for my afternoon/pre-workout snack...
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I did legs on Sunday and it reminded me that I cant forget about my upper body. I realized when moving around 45 plates, I have no problem using them for my squats, etc. however the actual moving of them is still hard! Upper body, I need to work it more!!!
Today was my leg day it's a killer.What part of your upper body do you want to work on? Wenday is my biceps and ab day.
I think my arms are what I am lacking. I did triceps and abs yesterday with cardio. I dont do a lot of chest (I have implants and the dr said it was a bad idea, it can cause them to seperate which I dont want!) So bis, tris and shoulders. I am looking for new tricep ideas, I feel I have been doing the same routine forever, pull downs, skull crushers, etc. Any suggestions welcome!
Narrow pushups are great for tris. Keep elbows in close to your body. Killer!
I do 3 position pulley curls 3 set oat the bottem, mid and high and go up with weight with each set so its12 @ 15pds 10 @ 20pds and 8 or 6 @ 25pds, I like pulley cruches for my abs and the ab twist machine and hanging leg raises. I also love hate the preacher curls for the biceps. I also do a shouder day with the smith machine,trap pull ups, dumbbell press, shoulder shrugs and lateral raises side/front.
Great suggestions - this group really is super helpful! Thanks!
Just finished day 4 of my new workout. This one wasnt so bad but I am still sore and tight in my hamstrings from last week. So that made it a little more challenging. Actually the hardest was the slow jog that I ended up doing instead of running because the soreness and stiffness made my legs feel like lead weights and I almost cant even straighten out my legs all the way. But its better than the day before so that is progress atleast. Amping up for tomorrows!
Hi my name is Tammy I'm 41 years old and getting ready to do my first figure show in just 13 weeks.I'm getting down to the line and trying to lose that last bit of body fat.
Wow, good luck! Welcome to the group. What kind of things do you do for your workouts?
Hi Tammy and good luck in these last 13 weeks! I don't think we have acitve figure competitors here currently but jco02b competes in bikini. I am always toying with the idea of doing a figure competition but I've never pulled the trigger. I would be really interested to see your journey here! Keep us updated!
Its something I have recently become interested in...how does one even get started in something like that?
Care28 go online and google figure contest find one near you. I'm doing the OCB Pinetree in Maine.I started weight training about a year ago.I fell in love with it. I wanted to be bigger and smaller at the same time also still wanted to look like a girl. It's a lot of work and money  my suit is $500.00 they run from $250-$1000.00 then it cost to enter the show and drug testing. Also you need a spray tan, nails, hair, make up, shoe's. My heel are 2in platform with a 5 in heel cost $100.00. I work out 7 days a week and do both carido and weight training. The last bit of body fat is hard to get off and it all starts in the kitchen! Today was lat day I didn't even know what or were a lat was when I started.
Sounds intense. Keep us posted. We'll roote you on!
Good luck! Definitely keep us posted about your journey... A co-worker of mine competed in her first figure competition this past November. It was a lot of work, about 2.5 hrs a day in the gym and very clean eating. The last 2-3 weeks were the toughest for her because she really had to restrict the carbs. At work, she would tell us how light-headed and foggy-headed she was feeling, and that she couldn't wait until the competition was over... But, she competed and placed 3rd in her age group!! We're all super excited for her, plus she' super amped that she stuck with it and saw it through. It was actually pretty incredible to see first hand what's required. She had photos taken, some were turned into motivational posters... It was awesome. Her journey is what motivated me to get serious in the gym... Maybe one day I can walk in the path that you both are walking on... Anyhow, good luck and don't give up! The last 2 weeks are the hardest, but you can do it!Â
It does sound intense! My problem is sticking to a strict diet...Im such a junk food addict! Do you have a trainer who has done this all before to guide you? I'll have to do some asking around my gym!Â
It does sound intense! My problem is sticking to a strict diet...Im such a junk food addict! Do you have a trainer who has done this all before to guide you? I'll have to do some asking around my gym!Â
I am training myself. The diet is hard but once your off the junk for a while you don't crave it. I eat 6 times a day. Low fat, low cal ,low carb. I workout out 2 hours a day I lift for a hour and do about an hour of cardio. Today was my leg day. My legs have been the place where I'm holding that last bit of body fat that has to go. I love to train so that part is pretty easy but one people don't think so.
Killed my arms today. We'll see if I will be able to type tomorrow... But, I did do a
great spin class!
Nighty nite!
Nice! I admire those that can do spin. I cant stand it becuase it hurts my bum too much. Im even certified to teach spin and my husband does teach spin but I never go. Keep it up! Spin class is great for you.
After putting off the gym due to the over crowding of new years resolution people, I have to say it has felt great to be back lifting. Granted I can barely move my arms today but that means I worked them. I am new to this group but have been reading and you guys have some really awesome posts! Heres to all of us reaching our goals!
Welcome to the group. Glad you are back in the gym. I love busy gyms. Mine is dead! IÂ go the gym on the army base and by the time I go all the soldiers are home from PT and getting showered so there is nooooo one there. I like to have atleast a few people there. It keeps me working hard so that I dont look dumb and lazy in front of them. haha
Welcome to the group! I know what you mean about crowded gyms. I'm just waiting for Valentine's Day to come and go cuz that's when all of the "New Year's Resolutioners" tend to fade away... My gym is crazy right now and parking is horrible. But it's only short lived... I like quiet gyms because I can concetrate in what I'm doing and can map out where I want to go next, rather than fight for a machine or a set of weights. Tonight was crazy! It was a mixture "high school the musical" vs. "the resolutioners"... But, I managed to do what I needed to do and get out of there...
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You are so right, by Valentines Day most are gone, I have even noticed a slow since 1/1. I like some people there, but not to the point you have to wait 20 min. Our gym has 1 Smith Machine, and people like to sit on it forever. I love the new guys, only because they stare..,.not at me but the amount of weight I am lifting - I want to be like "Yeah, a girl can do it!" LOL!
You are so right, by Valentines Day most are gone, I have even noticed a slow since 1/1. I like some people there, but not to the point you have to wait 20 min. Our gym has 1 Smith Machine, and people like to sit on it forever. I love the new guys, only because they stare..,.not at me but the amount of weight I am lifting - I want to be like "Yeah, a girl can do it!" LOL!
Soreness has officially set in from yesterdays new workout. Thank goodness that the workout didnt focus on central core because that is the only spot on my body that doesnt hurt right now. I have a meetig today so Im not sure if I will get a workout or not. If I do it will be short and maybe just light cardio to get some soreness to lessen. We'll see. I hope everyone has a great day!
So IÂ did abs and 50 min of cardio yesterday then stretched but I am still super sore. It kept waking me up all night. Off to the gym agian though. Gonna try day 2 of the new workout. Wish me luck. Tomorrows soreness could be worse than today. lol T, where are you? Did you try day 1? Please tell me Im not the only one sore from it.
Eat some bananas. Supposed to help with the lactic acid as well as cardio... Not sure how you feel about ibprofen, but you may want to take one before you go to bed. It sucks when you're sleep is interrupted. I find that I'm foggy headed and groggy all day when I didn't have a sound good nights rest...
I do uaually like to eat bananas but the ones that we can get here are aweful. I only can get them when they happen to be decent. No such luck right now. I also tend to avoid ibuprofen unless I have to take it becuase I have heard it inhibits muscle develoment. I just hope that the soreness goes away soon. lol IÂ know it will eventually. Thanks for the advice. Im working on it.
Really? I didn't know that about ibuprofen... Good to know...
Yeah, I dont know how much truth there is to it but I heard on the radio once that a study was done that concluded that those who took ibuprofen post workout had less muscle growth than those that took nothing.
by ommartin on May 29, 2012 at 8:03 am
that is really brave and a great idea! I also have some work to do. I've been slacking on my workouts and I've been allowing myself too many little cheats here and there. It's really adding up. Back to it!