I found a 3FC book in the library this week and decided to join to help keep me going on this change that I have started. However, because this website caters to so many different needs (which is awesome) I just don't know where to start.
I am a 29 year old mother of 2 girls who needs to lose another 55 pounds. Currently, I am cal counting and exercising at a gym and would love some advice on the the best way to maximize my efforts without sabotaging my own hard work.
Does anyone know the best way to educate myself on calorie cycling?
What is the best heart rate to maintain at the gym?

I always say, research research research! There is a ton of info on calorie cycling on the net, and you should be able to find a site that will make you a calorie cycle for you (I forget the actually address of the one I founnd >.<). To maintain heart rate at the gym- theres prob a ton of ways, what I do is if I am doing cardio generally I know if my heart rate is up, if its not then i up the intensity, run faster, cycle faster on a harder level etc. If I am doing weights etc then I throw in a 5 min REALLY hard cycle sprint or run to get my heart rate back up every 15 mins or so. Other people probably have different methods.

Feel free to drop by the 20 somethings!

edit: ooh you want the best heart rate to maintain at the gym! I have no idea >.< If you're out of breath then you're probably close?

Welcome to 3FC and good luck with your goals.

Hugs
Michelle

Hey Carly!
Congrats on your success so far - you're off to a great start!

Glad to have you join us! There are lots & lots of different groups and forums - I'm sure you'll find some that will keep you motivated, inspired and entertained! There's also info and first hand advice on different plans to help you get through the ups and downs. There's a great forum for calorie counting that might be of interest.

There are bunches of people here with more to lose and some with less - the bottom line is that we all have to do it a day at a time. The good thing is that we'll have lots of company along the way.

I've only been here a short time myself, having NEVER been part of an online forum. What has been so eye-opening is how much it has helped me. Whenever I feel overwhelmed or defeated, I just log on and read some of the success stories, complete with their before & after photos - or read about others still dealing day to day with their challenges - and before I know it, the time has flown by and so have all the thoughts of cheating or giving up.

So welcome - you 've found the right place - join in by inspiring us and being inspired!