Hey everyone my name is Danielle and I'm from NY. I'm trying to find the motivation to start working out and eating healthy. I was in tip top shape about 5 or so years ago and then it went down hill I started eating out more and exercising less. I know it's more mental than anything. I used to work out 6 days again and had a real strict diet. Now I have a son and I'm usually exhausted by the time he goes to bed. Does anyone have any suggestion on where I should start first. Thanks in advance and I'm happy to be a member of this board.

Hi Danielle! and welcome!
I know where your coming from. i too started eating out and slacking on the exercise and am now paying for it with back and knee pain and an extra 90 pounds.
Where you should start really depends on you. I know for me my weight comes off a lot easier if I exercise, so the first thing I did was join a gym then I just started cutting back on my portion sizes and then substituting things like fresh veggies with my tuna sandwich instead of chips. and no snacks at night unless they are low cal...(nights were my downfall, DH is always eating chips and dip at night and I want them too, but not anymore)
So you just have to identify where the problem lies for you and start with that. Is it exercise or diet? Do you feel you are lacking in one more than the other? If so then start with that one and gradually work on the other until you have diet and exercise working together for you. once again, welcome to the boards and good luck with your journey.

Hey Danielle! I started with the Couch to 5K program (C25K). There are many threads on here about the program. I am on week 4 right now and am actually looking foward to doing day 2 tonight. I also have a daughter and MAKE myself do this once she goes to bed so I don't lay in front of the TV and eat!

Hi Danielle,

I agree with inspired by you. That's been helping me since I started changing my habits about two months ago. I hardly every candy, ice cream, or chips any more. I've substituted more salads and fruits/yogurt that I like. Baby carrots are a great little snack when you're craving something crunchy.

The other thing about the exercise... I find I'm most motivated by routine and paying attention to how I'm feeling. For example, I feel the most sleepy around 4:30/5:30pm and debate in my head if I should take a nap or just have dinner earlier than my normal 6:00 or 6:30. Instead of doing either of those, I push myself to exercise for the half hour and then the sleepiness goes away.

That's a long-winded answer? Anyway, best to you for your journey!

*cheers*
-K

Welcome to the forum, Danielle!

This is the case for me, and may well be for you, too: I find that when I'm exercising regularly and eating properly, I'm actually less tired. I have more energy, and I feel good about myself, and that makes me happier around my family.

Best wishes to you!