My first time here : )
 

Hello!

I suppose a little about myself. Since childhood I have always fought with weight issues. We have diabetes heavily in my family so my mother really pushed for me to watch what I ate. I used to win my weight issues while younger and remained fit up until about 7 years ago. After college I began to ignore my weight and focused heavily on figuring out my career- which will all come into play.

During college I had a rather labor intensive career but then I did a career swap and while it has always been active, it was never intensive. Until a little over a year ago I was able able to ignore my weight- so much so on average I was gaining about 10 -15lbs a year and didn't even notice! I was eating junk food for almost all my meals, eating at fast food restaurants, and drinking soda throughout the entire day.

So last year I got a new job as a state park ranger. I wasn't sure what I would think of the job but I actually love every moment of it. It has been an amazing experience, however the reality is it is extremely physical. I have been going through interviews to get promoted (which you must interview at other parks) when I finally went to an interview that truly required someone to be fit to do the everyday job. It was place where it is all hiking trails and they do a ton of search and rescues. I was a top pick, but while no one would ever say it I think my weight was the biggest issue.

After that interview I looked back at others and really began to realize I think it is possible my weight has stood in the way of other positions as well. So this has left me with two options, I can sit and cry about it which would change nothing or do a lifestyle change.

Lifestyle change is what I have settled firmly on. I started January 1st, 2015 and so far I went from 196 lbs to 180lbs, but my goal weight is 125-130lbs. I should add I am 5'1 so I think that is a reasonable weight goal. I have been going to the gym almost everyday. While also losing weight I really need to focus on building strength as well. A goal I also have is to run a 5k this year.

Soda and sugary drinks have by far been the hardest on me- but instead I am drinking water. I am not following any diet plan- so far I have just been focusing on eating fruit and vegetables with lean meats. I do cheat, but I try to make it as minimal as possible. I have a long way to go, but I believe I can get there!

So anyways, that is my story!

welcome! college was the catalyst for my weight gain, too. I feel ya. Best of luck!

Welcome!! It sounds like you have a good plan to approaching things. You can do this!

Our stats are almost identical in everything!!! And you've lost more weight in one month than I did... I've lost like 17 pounds and I started end of november last year. What an inspiration you are, you totally got this!!!