Trial and Error
 

I've been on this weight loss journey for as long as I can remember. My "adult" low weight was achieved as a senior in high school at 150 pounds. But, I was only that weight because I didn't eat enough. Slowly, and then more rapidly, I continued to gain weight through college and beyond topping at ~225. I never did get on a scale back then because I really didn't want to know what I weighed.

But today, I'm ~196 and looking for some fresh support. When I first took control of my health, I followed the South Beach Diet and lost 35 pounds. Unfortunately, I couldn't maintain that weight as I added more carbs to my diet. I think mostly that I got comfortable and then bored with the same foods. Then I tried WW, but without actually joining. Oh it worked, but I felt like I had no energy and gained some weight back. I figured that I was eating 1400-1600 calories then and it just wasn't enough to sustain me. Then things in my life went out of my control and I went into firm denial that I was gaining weight until I was back at 215. I decided early this year that this is no way for me to live. I've been through several transitions since then and I have come to the realization that structured programs are too stifling for me. I've given up on NROL4W (stage 4) and C25K (week 5) - and even with some amazing progress within each program. I feel like I can only focus on one thing at a time - either getting in better shape or losing weight, but not both.

I've managed to lose the last 8-10 pounds by eating the same basic meals every day and allowing a bit of freedom on the weekends. I've spent so much time calorie counting that I know I'm in the range of 1600-2000 calories any given day. I also haven't lifted in almost 2 months, so I have to wonder if I'm losing muscle mass now too. But, I do ride my bike as often as I can to work and on the weekends. This is the most enjoyable exercise for me. And I know it is an intense workout judging by the pounding in my chest and dripping sweat. I do want to get back into lifting, and I've tailored a short workout that I can do at home with only dumbbells - but I haven't tried it yet.

Actually, I don't really know what I'm looking for in terms of support. I just have a feeling that today is a day to reach out to others. I guess I'm looking for encouragement to step up the weight loss a little bit. A pound a month is great, but I can do better. I may also be dreading the proximity of my 29th (and the ever popular 30th) birthdays. I feel like I'm stuck in the middle of the spectrum, plodding along at a snail's pace. I'm insanely jealous of those who lose weight easily and hypercritical of those who don't try at all. Unfortunately, my day-to-day life contains more of the I've-given-up types.

It's nice to finally introduce myself.

Hi and welcome to 3FC.

Good luck with your goals.

Hugs
Michelle

Welcome
 

We are glad you are here and know that you will find great support and information

:bravo: on your 25 Lbs loss!! Good luck with your continue efforts!! :)

Welcome and good luck!

:queen: Dhani :queen:

welcome! this is a good place for info and support. good luck on your journey! :)

Thanks everyone! Now it's time to find specific groups to have all of my questions answered. :)