[MJLGator]

Hey everyone,
I'm 23 and finally getting out there for some moral support. I've been on a downward spiral for the past 3 years or so. Everytime I try and get myself together I hit a speed bump that just sends me backwards. Trying to get things together to do it the 'right' way, but for some reason can't get motivated enough to get started. I try and exercise but it only happens once a month. So thats my story, been reading everyone's threads and seems as though this type of thing is just what I need for suggestions and motivation to get on the right path. Starting today...

[lizzbabe]

Welcome! You've found a great group of people to help you out with motivation and any questions you may have. Losing weight is really tough and I think we all can use all the help we can find! Exercising really needs to become a habit, not something you just "try" to do. Go for a walk after dinner and say you'll just go around the block or so and if you don't feel like it come back home. Most likely you'll want to continue. I suggest getting a couple good books on tape (or CD) and listening only while exercising. It motivates me!! Well, best of luck!

[spillthebeans]

Welcome MJLGator!!

That was a great suggestion by Lizbabe! As far as eating is concerned a website that has helped me keep track of what I'm eating. It's free- www.fitday.com. I can see just how much I am atually intaking and what is it...fat, protein, calories tallied and all. Check it out if you want. What your eating is just as important as excersizing.

[TaraJW]

Speaking of trackers, the american heart association has a exercize log I use thats really good and it gives you a graph that tracks your progress. I love it. Seeing the upward spikes is nice. And then seeing the drop when I dont work out makes me feel lazy and want to go back. It seems so childish but those little kid posters you make when you do something good, you get a sticker.......ha. It helps!

[lizzbabe]

Another good log for exercise is www.presidentschallenge.org. You can track all your workouts and see how far you've progressed, etc. I find it to be motivating!