[Jilly's Mom]

Hi,
I have a question, I am in my third week of maintenance and I have gained 2.5 lbs (PMS & TOM) What happens if I stay at that? Do I have to start maintenance over again -- 6 more weeks? How do they view that situation and has anyone been in that situation?
Thanks for any help. I have been wavering back and forth at this weight -- the 2 - 2.5 lbs -- since February. It is very frustrating.
Last week acted as if I just started and thought I did great and would be down at least 3 lbs but didn't lose anything just stayed the same

HELP!!!

Thanks
Bunny

[LM]

Hi Bunny,

The way it works is that if you are more than 2 pounds over your goal weight at week 6, then you have to pay for an extra week. And you take it week by week until you're back at your goal weight. (My WW franchise has added a twist where you have to be within 2 pounds either way of your goal weight by the end of the 6 week maintenance period).

Good luck! I immediately gained 3 pounds after reaching goal. Then lost 3 pounds. Then gained 2 pounds (and ended up right on goal on week 6). So I haven't learned to actual "maintain" yet.

Keep on trying!

-Laurel

[patch30]

Hi Bunny:

I've been a lifer for the past three years. And believe me it has not been easy. But I've got to tell you it is worth it. Just like life ebbs and flows, so do our weight and bodies. I too kept going up and down, in fact I still do. I honestly don't know anyone - including my WW leader - that doesn't fluctuate.

LM is right on the money re the 2 lb mark. Thank G-d my WW group doesn't penalize you for losing more than 2 lbs. , for I planned my official goal weight to be 5 lbs over what I ideally wanted to weigh 135 goal... 130 ideal. And it's a good thing too. Right now I'm actually having to pay again since I gained a "few" pounds back. But I know it works, and there's something about having to pay to "play" that really motivates me to stick to the program - so eventually I'll be coming for free again. Also remember - you can always change your goal, if you find either it's too tough to maintain, or you want to actually lose more. Some of our members, initially put down a goal weight that's doable and then revise it when they reach it.

Good luck - remember, Maintainence is an adjustment, not only for your body, but for your psyche. You really are doing great.

Patch