Hi everyone!

I'm just starting out and I'm open to words of wisdom/encouragement as far as keeping myself on track and getting to where I want to be. My story goes like this:

Growing up I was always heavier and I had a lot of trouble with my body image because of my height (towering over my peers made me feel like everyone could see all my imperfections, everything that was wrong with my body). In high school, I started playing basketball, running cross country, and swimming. This took me from 190 lbs at age 13 to 150 lbs at age 16. But, alas, when I went away to college with no teammates or coaches holding me accountable to stay in shape, the weight started piling back on. I started my freshman year at 160 lbs and have gained 25 lbs in the last year and a half! Funny how it sneaks up on you, right? I'm actually pretty good about what I eat these days (I don't buy crap because I really can't afford it!) but I could use some tips as far as eating healthy on a budget. I also have ADD when it comes to exercise; I get so bored with going to the gym! So I'm open to fun and exciting new ways to challenge myself and get in shape. It's been difficult getting back on the workout train because I get frustrated knowing what great shape I used to be in... it's crazy knowing that in the past I've run 5ks, 10ks, even a half marathon(!) but having trouble running a mile now. My goal is to feel stronger, healthier and hopefully lighter by the summertime and to get back down to 150 lbs by Christmas. I know what I'm supposed to feel like and where I'm comfortable, all I need to do is get there!

I'd love to hear your stories or any advice you can offer. I'm so excited to be a part of this community and I know I can do this with some support!

Hey dundee!

You can and will get back in shape and lower your weight! But you'll have to make time for some workouts and for planning your foods. Those two things have made a big difference for me.

I realize it's hard when you're in school, but it doesn't get any easier when you have a job, either. It's important to start those good habits now!

Good luck! Browse around, read the forums and the reviews. Lots of information on 3FC.

Jay

Hey girl!

You have come to the right place for all the encouragement in the world! You can totally get back to where you were and be in the best shape of your life. You just have to be consistent Good luck!


Bertie

Hello fellow tall girl!

I'm going to encourage you to get back into running, I think a competitor like you would enjoy having races to train for and it will give you structure and goals! And maybe some triathlon as well! You can do it!

Welcome, Dundee!
You are so lucky to be tall! You, too, Josephine!
Yes, get back into running... start off slow, and you'll soon be back to where you were.

Welcome! You have definitely come to the right place.

I can relate with you feeling out of place because of your height. I also had the same problem growing up. I'm originally from Guatemala and the average height there is like 5 feet...lol.

As far as eating better on a budget. I love canned beans, they have the low sodium varieties now, I always drain them and rinse them anyway. They're a great source of protein and give you lots of energy. For veggies, look for farmer's markets, or look for sales at your local supermarket. Baby carrots are reasonably priced and great for snacks, natural peanut butter, dry whole wheat pasta, canned tomato products (paste, sauce, crushed, diced, etc). I always keep my eye on the supermarket flyers, when chicken breasts are on sale I buy a lot and freeze them.

Best of luck to you!

Hi Dundee! Welcome to 3FC!

You know what? YOU CAN DO THIS. You're YOUNG. You have more energy to spend! You know you can run! - you don't need a coach to hold you responsible... you KNOW what to do! - time to get out there & do it! BTW, do they not have basketball, swimming, & running in college?

Watch those calories... it's easy to be duped by the famous "Freshman 15"... or Freshman 20, or 25, or 30.... that happened to me too when I was in college. But the real fat came after college. When I got a REAL job & became A REAL adult... sitting at a desk 8 hrs a day... eating from boredom, not having a "free" gym to work out, etc. I think that's just "life" settling in. But it doesn't have to be that way if you RECOGNIZE it's happening, & work NOW to change it!

Good luck!!! And remember - YOU CAN DO THIS!

Welcome, Dundee! You'll find a great deal of support, wisdom and laughter on this site! I commend you for your athleticism! Just remember: your body was able to do it before and it WILL be able to do it again! Just go slowly and celebrate each victory! Slow and steady wins the race!

Ann

Wow! Thanks so much for the support, this site is amazing! My roommate has just informed me that there's a triathlon club on campus, which is soooo exciting, but definitely scary. I have this image of being
surrounded by super-fit triathletes and feeling inferior But I guess that's how everyone has to start out right?? Going to a meeting couldn't hurt...