[tkdkathy]

Hi, everyone,

I have been posting here on the 100 pound board---I just felt most comfortable there because I have a large amount to lose. Well, I have been trying to lose just making small changes, but am contemplating doing WW again. I have been on WW a few times, and actually became a lifetime member at some point, and I think I am ready to try again. I have a friend who offered to go with me, but she only has about 15 to 20 pounds to lose. Still, having someone to go with seems to be pushing me towards trying. I have a couple of questions. I work out a lot----I mean a lot (five to six days of cardio, 45 to 50 minutes, two days of weightlifting, three to four martial arts classes, etc.)---probably has helped me to not weigh more than I already do. I read on another board that WW does not provide enough calories for people who exercise heavily. What do you think? I don't want to starve and not make it because I am too hungry---or have my body hold on to the weight because the calories are too low. I also read that some people felt it wasn't a good plan because it makes you obsess about food---I have that tendency, anyway---what have you found to be true for you? I am really scared to go---I hate being weighed and I know I will probably weigh a little more at a meeting---different time of day, clothes on, etc . I really think I want to do this, just need some words of wisdom from those of you who are finding success.

[Kelly_S]

Well unless that person knows and does W/W they haven't a clue about the calories (points) W/W gives for activity. You can earn more food points with activity based on your current weight * intensity of the activity * time done on the activity. Additionally they just started a 2 arm program...arm one is Core where you have a list of foods to eat from until you are satisified with 35 WeeklyPointsAllowance to use for those foods that are not on the list....arm two is Flex where you have xx number of points as a minimum + any ActivityPoints you earn + 35 Flex Points to supplement the program.

If you are hungry on W/W you need to look at what you are eating. If you are spending a lot of points on simple carbs (this is not an option on Core as simple carbs come out of your 35 WPAs) with junk or processed foods then that can leave one craving and want more food. Eating lean meats/proteins with veggies, fruits, dairy and complex carbs if you are on Core or Flex is essential to being satisified and for health.

While Flex gives more Flexability in what you eat it does not mean it is the best program for you. Core may be a bit more strict but that does not mean it is the best for you.

W/W is a great program and there is never any reason on it to be hungry if you follow the PointsPies for guidance.

W/W is one of the most recommended and widely used programs and has the best success (even if it is just 10 pounds of what the originally lost most people tend to keep at least some of the weight off even after 2 years -- new study to prove that is out there).

If you follow the program (Core until you are satisified with those 'permitted' foods and Flex by using all your TPs + APs + WPAs) the way they are written make wise choices you will succeed.

[mals1]

Kelly gave you some great information and advice. The only thing I would like to add is, don't be afraid to be weighed at a meeting. Think of it as empowerment. The people at the WW center do not judge you. They are there to help you succeed.

Also, take your measurements! Sometimes you may not lose (or a possible gain) at the scale. However, you can still be making progress. You can't use the scale alone as a barometer of your progress. Its a combination of things. Physical and Mental.

Good Luck with whatever you decide.