Body for Life Forums Posts for Jan 18, 2006: 484 Messages

General Health & Fitness: General Fitness and Diet Discussion

Thread: Ladies, UBWO???? (219 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by schultkr (9 posts) at 04:05 PM:
Hey thanks for all of your tips! I tried just sticking to the book workouts and it worked great! I did the dips and those are KILLER! Forgot about push ups though, gotta add those in for next time!

Body for Life Forum Message by annie1104 (272 posts) at 04:30 PM:
I read about Crazy 8's (described above) in a fitness magazine. But...I must say that I strictly followed the workouts by the book in my first challenge and got results. Sounds like you are doing great, so keep it up!!!

Thread: JuicePlus (65 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Shelley M. (11 posts) at 12:49 AM:
My Mother sold them for a while, and swears by them. I agree with Kajole, though...you are probably getting enough with BFL and they are for people NOT getting the right nutrients who have poor diets. Walgreens has a cheaper version of the original if you are still interested. Good luck.

Thread: Carpal tunnel (82 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by elway07 (3 posts) at 06:58 AM: Carpal tunnel
It is not confirmed but it looks as though I might have the early signs of Carpal tunnel in my left hand, and want to know if anybody else has it and what effect weight training wil have on it. Thanks

Body for Life Forum Message by David870 (24 posts) at 08:49 AM:
I asked a friend of mine about what weight training does for carpal tunnel and from what he understands, it seems to help out. That's just what I heard, though, take that for what it's worth...

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 08:57 AM:
I am pretty sure I have it going on too. The one thing I am having issues is when I try to hoist 35lb DB's for my chest press my wrists feel really weak. I need a spot to get them up. BIG TIME. It was that way with the 30's but I am getting stronger with them. Just be very careful with heavier weights. You might need a spot. Though it does help make it better and it will improve as you continue to lift. Work hard, Workout even HARDER!

-T

Body for Life Forum Message by elway07 (3 posts) at 08:58 AM:
Thank's for the help, really appreciate it!

Body for Life Forum Message by Mucca500 (89 posts) at 09:10 AM:
for years my doc said i had tendonitis in my wrist that just wouldnt heal. so i went to a chiropractor and he said i def. have carpal tunnel, he started treating me for it with adjustments, and after a month the pain was completly gone. it's still a little weak from years of favoring it, but using weight training is helping a lot.

Body for Life Forum Message by DreamCatcher (743 posts) at 12:27 PM:
I have carpal tunnel in both wrists and thought I would have problems with the lifting. I do have braces to wear when I need them, so keep them handy just in case, but I haven't needed them at all! The first few weeks my wrists were a bit shaky, but not much pain...then after a while, they got stronger and I have no pain at any time now!

Body for Life Forum Message by heathercj7 (6 posts) at 05:17 PM:
I have carpal tunnel in my right wrist. I also went to a chiro and after bi-weekly treatments for about 6 months I rarely ever have any symptoms or pain. Working out seems to improve the strength too in my wrist and I have never had any problems lifting weights.

Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (455 posts) at 07:55 PM:
For what it's worth I used to get crazy numbness and pain in both hands. Sometimes it would hurt just to pick up my baby. I don't know what it was- went to the doc and he wasn't able to diagnose it. I always suspected carpal tunnel but he never tested me for it. Anyway I thought I would never be able to lift but ever since I started BFL it hasn't come back. Dont know what it was but glad its gone.

Thread: How much water do I need ??? (132 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Scott (3 posts) at 07:15 AM: How much water do I need ???
How much water should I be drinking per day? How do you know when you are properly hydrated? I want to take my BF%, but understand that your hydration plays an important part of getting an accurate reading. Thanks

Body for Life Forum Message by RyanCTJ (50 posts) at 07:17 AM:
When your urine is crystal clear, you know you're drinking enough ;P That's the way I measure it.

Body for Life Forum Message by Jitter2001 (84 posts) at 07:25 AM:
As a side note... Bill Phillips practically states that you can't physically drink enough to be too much. I drink about a gallon a day if not a little more. I read on one of these threads that there is a health risk of some sort relating to drinking too much water, however, I think it was such a great amount that you couldn't possibly drink that much. Anyway, the point I'm getting at is that you can drink a LOT of water (1 gal or so a day) and not have a problem. -Ed-

Body for Life Forum Message by ocpanther65 (286 posts) at 07:45 AM:
Just try and drink a full glass with every meal and when you feel thirsty drink a glass. I keep a water bottle with me at all times and fill it up frequently. As far as the urine being clear, mine always isn't because I take a lot of vitamines and supplements (half of the time it is but the other half its flourescent yellow). If you urine is bright yellow it just means that you are getting rid of the extra vitamins and minerals that you didn't need.

Body for Life Forum Message by Scott (3 posts) at 08:42 AM:
Thanks BFL'ers. Going to refill my water bottle.

Body for Life Forum Message by Flower (2298 posts) at 08:45 AM:
Aim for a gallon a day or 4 litres; if you can do more all the better.

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 09:07 AM:
A lot! LOL I go for 3-4 liters a day about a gallon. Some days are better than others.

Body for Life Forum Message by Framed (123 posts) at 12:01 PM:
I just can't drink all of this water. I don't come close to a gallon. I'm wondering just how important it is. I think you don't want to be dehydrated and when working out I drink a lot. But if you are not thirsty, why all the water? I am going to do a little experiment. I'm going to give myself a solid week of 80 oz. of water/day and I'll let you know if it makes any difference. So far, the days I've pushed the water to my limit, I see that I get more exercise...running to the bathroom. It also makes me wake up in the night which I HATE!

Body for Life Forum Message by ReenieC (130 posts) at 12:23 PM:
Framed, I'm with you on all this water consumption!!! I literally have to force myself to get in the min. 80 oz. a day for the mini challenge. How in the world is everyone drinking several liters or a gallon a day??? I buy the 1.5 liter bottles, and can drink one a day. I do a little more than the 1.5 liter bottle since I also drink a large glass first thing in the morning and whatever I drink at the gym. Seriously, when I drink too much, not only am i in the bathroom every half hour, but throughout the night too...and it still fills me up that I feel like I'm about to explode.

Body for Life Forum Message by Forest Tech (133 posts) at 12:42 PM:
I have been drinking 3-4 litres a day and I never realised the benefits of it until I stopped over my 10day break at christmas. The water keeps me from nibbling, it actually livens me up and gives me energy, keeps my stomach from growling or feeling acidic, keeps bloat down, and generally makes me feel better all around. Going to the bathroom a lot is a small price to pay for all these advantages IMO.

Body for Life Forum Message by ashtrash (428 posts) at 01:08 PM:
Water is so important for your body. WE learned all about it in physiology. Basically, it aids all your organs in functioning properly, and keeps you ALIVE! IT IS SO IMPORTANT! DON'T NEGLECT IT!!

Body for Life Forum Message by Framed (123 posts) at 01:24 PM:
I don't doubt that you need water. I believe we have to stay hydrated. I love it when I'm working out. And it is the best option for any kind of drinking. So when I want a drink, it is water. I just question the need for a gallon of it. I will "test the waters" by drinking 80 oz. each day next week. I'll let you all know what I feel and see.

Body for Life Forum Message by Shelley M. (11 posts) at 02:34 PM:
I used to have a problem consuming enough water, but then I tried this idea: I bought 10 - 10 oz. (little) bottles of water and keep them in my fridge. I grab one of them whenever I think about eating or drinking anything, or am just sitting around. Before you know it, I have gone throguh most of them and the water I drink when exercising as well. I don't know WHY this works for me, maybe it is that they are in small serving sizes, so convenient and always cold. But it does. And, like Forest Tech said, when I DON'T drink them, I definitely get deydrated and don't feel very good. Good Luck.

Thread: Back to that Rest Minute thing (31 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by nola (65 posts) at 02:35 PM: Back to that Rest Minute thing
Well, I increased my weights all around and.... NOW I SEE WHY YOU NEED TO REST! Turns out I was not lifting WEIGHTS at all. But make n mistake, I am now and I need to rest between sets. My husband had the NERVE to call me in the middle of my LBWO today and ask me to make him a sandwich since he didn't really have time for lunch. I was huffing and puffing and really needed my rest minutes...no time for sandwich-making! ~Eileen

Thread: What's your resting heart rate?? (49 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (455 posts) at 07:52 PM: What's your resting heart rate??
Mine is 49. Am I dead? Just kidding. But it does seem low....

Body for Life Forum Message by sixpack (32 posts) at 08:00 PM:
You are the healthiest person in the world and a marathon runner what do you expect. Mine is 72 but I think I might have been excited to take it.

Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (455 posts) at 08:16 PM:
OK, Mr. 20 minute 5k... LOL I am not that fast. :)

Body for Life Forum Message by Kajole (15 posts) at 09:13 PM:
I "think" athletes have around 60 resting heart rate..sooo maybe only MOSTLY dead?? LOL

Body for Life Forum Message by Kajole (15 posts) at 09:17 PM:
aww those pigtails are too cute!

General Health & Fitness: EAS & Other Supplements

Thread: Looking for Betagen advice... (124 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by RyanCTJ (50 posts) at 09:23 AM: Looking for Betagen advice...
Just got my Betagen in and am looking to take it with an aim to increase my lean muscle gains on the program. I was thinking of taking 1 scoop 1/2 hour before doing weights, 1 scoop straight after and 1 before bed. I was thinking of not taking it at all on cardio days. Has anyone had effective results using it this way? How do others here take it? Should I take more than 1 scoop per serving? Should I use it even on cardio days? Thanks in advance for any help, Ryan

Body for Life Forum Message by SupaFreak (1026 posts) at 09:45 AM:
Well, I am a girl and I only take it once a day. Doesn't the canister recommend only twice a day? I do take it everyday except free day. Danielle

Body for Life Forum Message by MelJ113074 (16 posts) at 09:48 AM:
Ryan I'm not sure if I'm doing it right, but I take 2 scoops before and after I work out. I saw a thread form Jerry I think and he said that should work best. I'm only 2 weeks into, so I don't know if its working yet. Also I use it everyday. Melissa

Body for Life Forum Message by Hot Body (625 posts) at 10:47 AM:
I do what Melissa does.

Body for Life Forum Message by KatieFeld-mom (139 posts) at 12:11 PM:
I take 2 scoops (1 tablespoon) 20-30 minutes before my workout and another 2 scoops right before I go to bed.

Body for Life Forum Message by De (1 posts) at 12:21 PM:
I was advised by EAS to take it twice a day. Directly following a weight workout, 1 hour after a cardio workout and right before I go to bed.

Body for Life Forum Message by RyanCTJ (50 posts) at 06:47 PM:
Thanks for all the advice guys, I think I will use 2 scoops twice daily as most of you have suggested.

Body for Life Forum Message by Can'tStopMe (532 posts) at 07:15 PM:
I take 2 scoops three times a day at around 6 hour intervals. I just followed the directions on the jar.

Body for Life Forum Message by michiganmike (264 posts) at 07:46 PM:
And you really ought to take it every day, Ryan. If you only do two scoops, bracketing it around the workout is fine, or just after the workout and upon retiring, though I always hate to take carbs right before bed, even though Betagen really isn't much. I asked Brian Deeds, the Supplements Guru from EAS when I was out there once about taking creatine every day, and he said take it every day, even on free days for maximum muscle growth.

Body for Life Forum Message by RyanCTJ (50 posts) at 07:59 PM:
Thanks mike, daily it shall be. On previous challenges I have always been more content overall with my fat loss than muscle gain during the 12 weeks, so I'm making it a priority on this one.

Body for Life Forum Message by bubblz7 (22 posts) at 08:04 PM:
OK, so I've used Betagen in the past and although it helped with my muscle recovery (not so sore) I always felt it made me look and feel 'bloated.' I'd love to get stronger and push the weights, but also dont want the swollen look. Is it recommended for women to take it daily also? Suzanne

Thread: I found a great cure for those with dry skin (50 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Rod has changed his Bod (517 posts) at 01:07 PM: I found a great cure for those with dry skin
I  get very dry skin in the winter months to the point I have to use neosporin on my elbows.

I started taking a 1200mg Flax Oil pill about 4 weeks ago and now my dry skin has almost disappeared.

So not only is it healthy for your Heart is is great for your skin. 

If you have dry skin try it and let me know if it workd for you.

Rod

Body for Life Forum Message by J-P-S-524 (55 posts) at 01:10 PM:
Thanks Rod. ~Tried To Amend My Carnivorous Habits~

Body for Life Forum Message by Muscle Head (40 posts) at 01:14 PM:
Ditto to that Rod. That really benefits us 40-somethings, in that the facial skin seems more smooth and pliable ... as if we are not aging as quickly. :)

Thread: Magnetic BRACELETS? (40 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by BIG BULL (920 posts) at 03:46 PM: Magnetic BRACELETS?
Any thoughts out there on magnetic bracelets and improved blood flow, mental acuity, energy, strength???

I have worn them on occasion....but not since doing BFL.

What about you?

BIG BULL wonderin'

Body for Life Forum Message by tcstone (778 posts) at 03:47 PM:
I have family that swear by them. I have worn them and haven't noticed a thing.

Body for Life Forum Message by Pixy (411 posts) at 04:21 PM:
I don't see how it would help. I work as an MRI Tech, around a very powerful magnet and all our engineers and physics guys think the magnetic bracelet is a waste of money.

General Health & Fitness: (OT) Off-Topic Threads

Thread: I have a 12 year old son soon to be 13 and I need advice re music (388 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Shelley M. (11 posts) at 02:49 PM:
As a mother of 5....girls ages 15, 14, 13, and 10 and an 11-year old boy..I wanted to put my 2 cents in and see if it helped. I understand that we listened to "bad" music (according to our parents), but the music of today cannot compare to the music of the 70s and 80s. Sons about rebellion are different than songs about active violence and mayhem. I actually LISTEN to the music that my kids want online (Yahoo Music, etc) BEFORE I buy it for them. We also try to have open communication about what is good, what is bad, and why. I think Blink182, Greenday, Slipknot (although the followers and concerts are definitely violent..so they do not participate that way), and a lot of current music is okay. Eminem sings about beating women, killing cops, etc. So do most of the 'hard core rappers," so they are a no-go in my house. Remember: a LOT of questionable or 'dangerous' music is actually offered in both the PA (Parental ADvisory-never buy) and the EDITED Version, so you might make a compromise. BOTTOM LINE: Talk to your child, do the research, YOU listen to the LYRICS and you both work it out together. I have 5 kids and while I don't always LIKE the music, they don't listen to any of the nasty stuff, and when they are with friends, they actually don't either because they don't LIKE it (Their friends come over and I hear them teasing them about it) I hope this has helped. Good Luck and God Bless you for caring about your kids!!

Thread: www.cyndisfight.com (291 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (295 posts) at 10:20 PM:
bump

Thread: My Son turns 18 today! (148 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Mellie (677 posts) at 08:37 AM:
Thanks for all the Birthday wishes! I was able to enjoy him for about 2 hours on his Birthday before he pulled his usual stunts and disappeared for the rest of the weekend. I was crushed, mainly for my girls who couldn't wait to spend the weekend with "brother" as they call him. I kept them for the weekend (they usually go to daddys) just to be with him and he just took off! I wanted to strangle him. Maybe someday he will grow up and realize that just because we are family and will always love him does not give him the right to spit in our faces over and over again. Lord I pray that I don't have to go through all this with my girls!

Body for Life Forum Message by amkazen (315 posts) at 11:43 AM:
It is so tough to have to deal with attitudes we do not like. Just give your girls lots of love and tell them their brother is going thru some tough times right now, and that it will get better. Try to keep a smile on!

Body for Life Forum Message by Mellie (677 posts) at 12:33 PM:
Thanks, I did talk to them but not in detail, just let them know I was sorry brother let them down and that I wasn't happy about it. But on a good not A, I am closing on a house Friday!!! Yipee!

Thread: OT: Took the plunge (228 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by DreamCatcher (743 posts) at 12:24 PM:
Hey Tonee! Glad you have a blog! I'll have to check it out when I get home tonight! Jennifer

Thread: Any principals on here? I've got a scenario: (276 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by nutz (146 posts) at 05:59 AM:
1. suspend him.
2. Upon returning, apologizes to you and the rest of the students in library.
3. works in library everyday after school for at least a week (unless that royally screws you).
4. writes 1000 times "My balls are too small to suck"

Maybe we can skip #4.

Body for Life Forum Message by Jitter2001 (84 posts) at 07:20 AM:
This is one thread that I really want to hear the outcome. I couldn't even imagine what I would have done had I been told that to my face... I will just say that that child is VERY lucky that you are his librarian and not me. Not sure if I would have abused him physically but I am positive that I would have grabbed his shirt and marched down to the office that very minute... I wouldn't have even given him the chance to think about what he said before I was taking action. Just my thoughts on the issue. Please let us know what that disrespectful childs fate was. -Ed-

Body for Life Forum Message by TreeStand (97 posts) at 08:19 AM:
Ditto Jitter, I am riveted here

Body for Life Forum Message by Nicabod (114 posts) at 05:13 PM:
Well, here's the deal so far. When this occurred, I don't know how, but I did maintain my composure. All I said to Junior was, "All right. You're coming with me." And I did have him come straight to the office. We couldn't find an administrator (nice) and had to hunt one down and found the principal. While Junior was waiting in the office, I told the principal exactly what happened and then left him to deal with it (I had to go back and help the class that was in the library). Apparently, this is the aftermath. Junior denied it. Principal made him write me an apology. Principal brought apology letter by yesterday after I had gone home and told the co-librarian that he'd talk to me about it today. He did not talk to me about it, and we were too busy for me to march in there and talk to him. Junior was back in class (and in the library) today. Junior did not say a word to me. His teacher told me that the principal told him to "give her a day to cool off" before apologizing. This apology letter, which was his ONLY punishment, was a crock. It talked about how he was having a rough morning (whatever--he was joking around with his friends through the other librarian's entire presentation) and how he was a really good student and had never been in trouble before (I know for a fact he's in trouble with his teacher for smarting off to her and for not serving his detentions. And she told me he was recently in trouble with the police as well). Regardless, there is NO excuse for his comments. Also, I looked up his behavior/referral notes on the computer, and it wasn't even entered--if the administration isn't entering referrals, how do they know he hasn't been seen before (there are 4 of them and 3 were out of the building at the time)? I am SO furious. And really, not so much with Junior as my principal. The only consequence he had was to write me a letter that was more about making excuses for himself than apologizing. I am absolutely talking to the principal tomorrow. I know it is too late for him to go back and "re-punish" the kid, but I want him to know that his decision completely invalidated me and showed not only that boy but the five or six around him that there is no need to respect me and there are no consequences for disrespect and vulgar comments--that's the kind of comment that would get this kid fired in the workplace and sued. But at school--whatever--it's fine. Not that this matters, but I'm not even some old-lady matron librarian with a bun, a cardigan, and bi-focals. I'm just barely 31, I'm not a prude. I don't get bent out of shape and run to the principal over every little thing. I pick my battles. THIS is a battle I'm picking. I will not work for someone who values a disrespectful brat over me. Sorry for my rant. I'll keep you posted on the outcome of my meeting with the principal--who, I'm afraid, has no balls at all.

Body for Life Forum Message by nikki (108 posts) at 05:37 PM:
This is the most disrespectful thing I have EVER heard! What a little prick! It sounds like he gets no discipline at home and the administration is doing nothing either! I teach severely handicapped children and we had to suspend a little 10 year old girl last year for telling me fo "f" off. She was 10 AND mentally challenged and she got suspended for doing less IMO than Junior. I am interested in knowing how this turns out.

Thread: Stupid Computer Question (102 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by amkazen (315 posts) at 11:54 AM:
Are you using Outlook or Outlook Express? Did you update recently? Are the links in emails that are in your junk mail folder?

Body for Life Forum Message by NCmomof3 (134 posts) at 12:16 PM:
Hold the control button down as you click on the link. That should do it for you. Susan in NC

Body for Life Forum Message by tinkerbell (340 posts) at 01:28 PM:
The control button isn't doing it. I have regular Outlook, no updates recently, no junk mail folder. I get a message that says something along the lines of it being restricted. Thanks for the advice!!

Thread: Team Reminder (36 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by crone (597 posts) at 08:09 AM: Team Reminder
Teams - You should already have your stats in to your captains. Captains - Don't forget to turn in your sheets. 4 teams have already turned there's in. Where are your?

Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (295 posts) at 11:58 AM:
Come on guys, this is a CHALLENGE!! YOU SHOULD BE EXCITED TO SEE WHERE YOU STAND!! Its already wednesday, and there are still 6 teams that havent turned in the stats! MAKE IT A PRIORITY!! Lets go teams! xoxo karen

Thread: OT-Hey all you Bloggers, I have a question (87 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by LittleBig (67 posts) at 03:36 PM: OT-Hey all you Bloggers, I have a question
I just started a blog at blogger.com and I need help linking to some of your blogs. You know how you all have the links you like on the side?? How the heck do I do that? I have read their instructions which I must say sound Greek to me. I must be an idiot when it comes to computers. Please help if you can.

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 03:37 PM:
PM J-Dub she is good at explaining these things ;-) Me I had to have my husband show me it is greek to me as well. ;-)

Body for Life Forum Message by LittleBig (67 posts) at 03:54 PM:
Glad to know I'm not the only one that can't figure this out. Thanks

Body for Life Forum Message by Pixy (411 posts) at 04:00 PM:
I still don't have any I could not do it either.

Body for Life Forum Message by KatieFeld-mom (139 posts) at 04:30 PM:
When you go into your template, scroll down until you get to the line that has the Google Address in it. It will look something like this: (li)(a href="http://google.com/")Google(/a)(/li) The ( and ) will actually be < and >. Underneath the Google line will be two more lines that link up to the Help section of Blogger. You will need to delete those lines (the Edit-Mes) and replace them with the addresses that you want to use for linking. You can also replace the Google link. Do it exactly like the Google address provided. It will look like this: (li)(a href="http://katie-feld-mom.blogspot.com/")KatieFeldmom(/a)(/li) Make sure you use the < and > keys instead of ( and ).

Body for Life Forum Message by KatieFeld-mom (139 posts) at 04:38 PM:
Once you have entered all of your links, click PREVIEW to make sure they look right. Actually, you can click PREVIEW after you've typed your first link in to make sure you are doing it correctly. Once it looks good and is ready, click on SAVE TEMPLATE CHANGES. It will save it and then a new box will appear near the top that says REPUBLISH. You have to click that in order to make the links appear.

Body for Life Forum Message by ~Lala~ (767 posts) at 06:03 PM:
OH Goody!! THERE"S KATIE the computer GODDESSS !! she'll help ya too!!! she rescued me from never having my pic on my profile!! ;) THANKS SOOOOO much again! You're wonderful Katie!! Little big ..it's a pain but it can be done!! :) let someone walk you thru the first one then you can do some "copy & paste" of parts of it! Best of luck!

Thread: OT- Weather report in Canada please? (40 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by SupaFreak (1026 posts) at 04:42 PM: OT- Weather report in Canada please?
For you Canadians online, can anyone help me with a weather report for the next 5 days for Alberta and Calgary? Wish I was coming, but it's not for me. My hubby is delivering a trailer up there soon. He's just curious of the weather expectations. Thanks, Danielle

Body for Life Forum Message by ~Lala~ (767 posts) at 05:58 PM:
Hi Dani..I'm over in B.C .. but my sis is in Edmonton so I have the weather on my faves ~lol Calgary looks like its gonna be nice the next few days partly cloudly highs to O & lows down to minus 9... hope that helps & hope he has a safe trip! :)

Body for Life Forum Message by Kerry (1096 posts) at 06:02 PM:
Danielle, www.theweathernetwork.com Kerry

Body for Life Forum Message by FitnessGal4Life (28 posts) at 06:29 PM:
Try Environment Canada's website for current conditions. After 30 days of rain here on BC coast, we finally had the sun come out for a day!! I guess for Calgary it's more of a snow-thing! Happy driving!

Body for Life Forum Message by Tai-Kee (2424 posts) at 06:52 PM:
Calgary: http://www.theweathernetwork.com/weather/cities/can/Pages/CAAB0049.htm Me: :( http://www.theweathernetwork.com/weather/cities/can/pages/CAAB0124.htm

Thread: Team Standing as of 1/18 (114 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by crone (597 posts) at 05:04 PM: Team Standing as of 1/18
I am only reporting the teams that have reported to me as of today. If your team is not in the standing, turn in your sheets and I will update the standings. Thanks to the teams that have reported. Team # 5 262.4 Team # 8 258.9 Team # 7 252.0 Team # 1 247.5 Team # 4 227.2 Team # 6 194.6 Remember there's still a chance to be in first place. Turn in your stats in time to your captains, captains turn in your sheets, the changes in BF% in week 4 and reaching your 4 week goals. Good Luck!

Body for Life Forum Message by crone (597 posts) at 05:04 PM:
Darn it, why won't it make a list?

Body for Life Forum Message by tonee (183 posts) at 05:13 PM:
Body for five is smokin' Oh Yeah!!!!!!!

Body for Life Forum Message by sixpack (32 posts) at 05:23 PM:
Rock On! Team 5. "We are the chapions, we are the champions, of the WORLD" for right now anyway. Yahhhhooooooo!!!!!!!

Body for Life Forum Message by crone (597 posts) at 05:27 PM:
Yeah, and not for long. Team #1 will be kicking butt.

Body for Life Forum Message by sixpack (32 posts) at 05:29 PM:
what team #1 I can't even see you guys, OHHHH there you are behind team 7 and 8.

Body for Life Forum Message by Pixy (411 posts) at 05:32 PM:
Yeah! Keep it up team 5

Body for Life Forum Message by crone (597 posts) at 05:36 PM:
Team #5 just wait. Team #1 had three sick players. We are now at full strength. Watch out.

Body for Life Forum Message by sixpack (32 posts) at 05:48 PM:
bump

Body for Life Forum Message by KatieFeld-mom (139 posts) at 06:11 PM:
GO SYNERGY SEVEN! We Can Do This!

Body for Life Forum Message by goingforbuff (1583 posts) at 06:35 PM:
Finally got all of Team 9 info...I emailed it to you, Crone!!!

Body for Life Forum Message by Ngo Excuses (90 posts) at 06:37 PM:
Alright Team 5...we ROCK!!! Great Job!!! Denise

Body for Life Forum Message by crone (597 posts) at 07:52 PM:
bump

Body for Life Forum Message by RyanCTJ (50 posts) at 07:57 PM:
Whats this team thing all about then?

Body for Life Forum Message by Buffy-the-FatLayer-Slayer (61 posts) at 08:01 PM:
Crone - I think you have to type a team then double or triple space then type again on the next line. I think... Does this work?

Body for Life Forum Message by bethkk (251 posts) at 08:22 PM:
WOO HOO, SYNERGY SEVEN!! We're gonna totally kick butt this week...I'm back full force and feelin' strong. Let's GO!!

Body for Life Forum Message by GET*HER*DONE (3002 posts) at 11:13 PM:
Let's Go Team * and GET*HER*DONE!!! yea yea yea!!! yippie!! We gonna beat hum all, Yea!

Thread: another program?? (66 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by meema (10 posts) at 08:12 PM: another program??
Has anyone heard of Hank Johnson Jr.? Seen an ad of his and he states that he is a past wwinner of Body for life 1998? he has of corse the "new" way of dieting. any one know anything???? thanks

Body for Life Forum Message by fitnesscrazedmom (49 posts) at 08:35 PM:
Never heard of him, does he have a website

Body for Life Forum Message by RyanCTJ (50 posts) at 08:48 PM:
Isn't he the NASA guy from the BFL Success Stories #1? If so I'm sure he and Bill had a conflict of interest because after the challenge he went off to promote some new-fangled supplement company and I remember him criticising BFL on a message board at the time, stating this new supplement company had the "best way" to get in shape (which surprisingly involved eating 6 balanced meald a day and working out with cardio and weights alternately, what a revelation!). And now looking at this website... http://www.thehealthandfitnesschannel.com ...he seems to accredit his 1998 transformation success to his own program which he is plugging! All this despite the fact that on the Success Stories DVD he can plainly be seen praising BFL and openly admitting he used the principles to achieve his physique transformation.

Body for Life Forum Message by RyanCTJ (50 posts) at 08:51 PM:
Oh, and one more thing. I remember posting on the message board at the time requesting clarification on the above transformation, and he replied with a rather rude and nasty email. Bodylogix was the name of the company/program he was trying to plug at the time, I don't think it exists any more.

Body for Life Forum Message by mshaun (8 posts) at 08:55 PM:
What a joke. Even though he won I don't think he should've 'cause he looks out of porportion between his body and arms. It's funny looking to me. I'm sticking to BFL

Thread: Dietary Questions (25 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by bubblz7 (22 posts) at 08:14 PM: Dietary Questions
I have a question about my meal plan. I've done BFL since January 2002, interrupted by nearly 9 months of rehab for a torn hamstring. Now fully healed, I'm basically starting over. My question is more my evening meal. I try to eat perfect, but wonder if eating 1/2 cup of brown rice for lunch and dinner is okay. I had great results before, but never got super cut like I wanted. I'm wondering if I should not eat rice at dinnertime. Any comments? If you need to know EXACTLY what I'm eating, I'll let you know. Just didn't want to take up too much space. Suzanne

Thread: OT: American Idol (19 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by wannabegreat (29 posts) at 10:06 PM: OT: American Idol
Anybody watch? Sooooo funny.

Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (295 posts) at 10:11 PM:
Yeah! It was hilarious! I guessed Carrie Underwood last year from her audition! I havent seen any so far that I'm betting on.........LOL

Body for LIFE: Eating for LIFE

Thread: Please pick apart my daily meals! (236 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Scattergold (51 posts) at 07:53 AM:
Okay... here is today's menu- LBWO m1- EAS carbcontrol advantedge dark chocolate drink, ff latte m2- grape nuts/skim milk & veggie quiche cup m3- turkey wrap (whole wheat low carb wrap, lettuce, tomato, ff mayo, avocado) m4- dannon nouriche smoothie m5- balsamic roast chicken breast, steamed brussels m6- small glass of silk & cottage cheese still no weight loss =( scale is stubornly sitting there at 109 >_<

Body for Life Forum Message by Go4steffie (826 posts) at 08:04 AM:
My concern/question is the grape nuts. I am not totally up to speed on their nutritional info, but to me a great alternative to grape nuts is Kashi Go Lean Crunch. It is SUPER YUMMY and has some protein in it. How about replacing your meal 6 with cottage cheese....what is the nutritional info on the glass of SILK? I don't think you are doing too bad for a beginner... LOL! Stef :-)

Body for Life Forum Message by Scattergold (51 posts) at 08:13 AM:
Thanks Stef =) I've been thinking about trying some kashi, I hear alot of good stuff about it... my only thing is I have an aversion to cereal that goes soggy fast... and grape nuts stay nice and crunchy all the way through =) Here's some info on grape nuts nutrition per 1/2 cp serving - calories 208, carbs 47g, fiber 7g ..and silk- calories 140, fat 5g, carbs 14g, protein 8g

Body for Life Forum Message by Go4steffie (826 posts) at 08:28 AM:
I guess I just think your cereal breakfast is lopsided in carbs, but I guess if you add a veggie quiche to it, it balances out. Sometimes it takes a few weeks to get all the bugs ironed out of your program. Keep at it! Stef :-)

Body for Life Forum Message by Go4steffie (826 posts) at 09:10 AM:
Kashi info: 1 cup 190 cal 3g fat 36g carb 8g fiber 9g protein

Body for Life Forum Message by Scattergold (51 posts) at 09:20 AM:
Thanks again Stef!! I am definitely going to buy a box this weekend at the store and give it a try =) mmm.... speaking of which, its about time for meal 2!

Body for Life Forum Message by Scattergold (51 posts) at 02:44 PM:
Kinda proud of myself... just broke my menu for today down at fitday and my little pie graph reads 42/40/19 =) and 1028 cals... altho... I'm supposed to get about 1250 for my height...

Thread: EFL Chili (119 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by J-P-S-524 (55 posts) at 04:08 PM:
I was going to try it tonight also, but once I made up my mind to do it..it was too late for dinner option. I may make it later & refridge it for tomorrow. So tonight, grilling top round sirloin with the right seasonings. With them I am going to make the seasoned potatoes that are in EFL. The ones that are on the Colorado buffalo burger recipe...they look awesome! ~Tried To Amend My Carnivorous Habits~

Body for Life Forum Message by KatieFeld-mom (139 posts) at 04:24 PM:
I loved the Chili and it lasted so long. Next time, I will definitely freeze some because I ended up throwing it out after a week and a half. Funny story about the Chili. I had never cooked with jalopenos before and did not know that I needed to wear gloves while I sliced them. Whew! My poor hands were hurting all night long and I even tried to soak them in milk. Last night, I had the Crunchy Taco Salad. It was really yummy and very filling. I think I will try the Enchiladas on my next paycheck. I really liked the potatoes that are made with the Herbed Chicken.

Body for Life Forum Message by heathercj7 (6 posts) at 05:20 PM:
FYI - Cure for burning hands from jalepenos....put a little bit of bleach in water and pour on your hands.

Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (295 posts) at 10:38 PM:
this is a great recipe! however, i never had a problem with beans before........if you get my drift. and my dh cannot stay out of the bathroom!!! LOL it is great tasting though,and makes so much! I also LOVE the cool taco salad. i cant stand cream cheese or sour cream, however, mixed with taco seasoning and salsa....GREAT COMBO!! i really suggest trying this one!

Thread: Asparagus (68 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by LittleBig (67 posts) at 03:48 PM:
I agree. I am so stoked that my hubby and dd will eat it. I was shocked to say the least but we have it probably 2-3 times a week!!

Thread: Mexican Food (108 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by heathercj7 (6 posts) at 05:23 PM:
If they don't have low-carb corn tortillas are a good substitution Also be sure to get black beans instead of refried beans/rice.

Body for Life Forum Message by TNT's-MOM (369 posts) at 05:51 PM:
OK I am the queen of Mexican Restaruant eating I live in TX after all...NO CHIPS...stay away from the CHIPS...LOL while everyone is munching on chips drink alot of water it really helps and you will need the extra water to get rid of the salt in mexican food.... fajita's are good but most have alot of salt added (drink extra water) you can ask for the taco salad with just chicken fajita meat ask for NO shell no rice or refried beans or cheese (have to look at the menu, I am lucky here most have just black beans and no rice)Always ask for salsa on the side use that for dressing instead of regular salad dressing...if all else fails just order the fajita's and eat them in the right proportion with the lettuce and pico NO cheese the cheese that is normally offered is very high fat cheese. good luck have fun with your frineds.

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 05:56 PM:
and some restaurants offer whole wheat tortillas.

Body for Life Forum Message by crone (597 posts) at 05:58 PM:
Glad to see you around TNT's-MOM

Body for Life Forum Message by TNT's-MOM (369 posts) at 06:32 PM:
TNT is right but even if they have whole wheat tortillas they are normally way to high in fat need to ask if they are whole grain and how they are made you could really do some damage with a couple of thoes things best advise if the whole wheat totilla is really tasty be careful there is a reason it is really really too good to be true LOL......I would say if you can limit yourself to maybe 1/2 of a whole wheat one since restaruant proportions tend to be way to big...

Body for Life Forum Message by Tai-Kee (2424 posts) at 06:54 PM:
Heck if I were going to a nice Mexican resteraunt I would declare FREE DAY!!! We don't have any up here and mexican is my all time FAVOURITE!

Body for Life Forum Message by bethkk (251 posts) at 09:38 PM:
I usually get the chicken fajitas and mix the meat and veggies with some black beans and some salsa and eat it without the tortillas. I find I don't miss the tortillas at all. We go to Qdoba a lot for lunch and that's what I get (technically it's a "naked fajita burrito with beans instead of rice"!). YUMMY!!

Body for Life Forum Message by morpho_veja (30 posts) at 10:36 PM:
Thanks for the great ideas. I will stay away from the chips and drink lots of water. I will post how it turns out:) morpho

Thread: Break Down (65 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by NormRebs (295 posts) at 10:34 AM: Break Down
What is the break down on % that you should eat a day?
Anyone?

Protein/Carbs/Fat

Norm

Body for Life Forum Message by Flower (2298 posts) at 11:05 AM:
40P/40C/20F

Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (295 posts) at 12:05 PM:
agree w/ flower. 40/40/20 is the bfl way, and the best way

Thread: Portions? (46 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by ThirdTry (1 posts) at 03:05 PM: Portions?
Help me out here, I've read the BFL book a while ago (maybe I missed something or forgot it) but I still have a question on portions. I know it says to use the palm of your hand or a fist to gauge the portion of carbs and protiens: From BFL web site: "such as using the palm of your hand or your clenched fist for gauging the portion sizes of food." So if the rice fits in the palm of my hand how high do I stack it, how thick is the chicken breast etc..? If I put rice the size of my fist then I would have well over a cup full, it seems like a little much. Any insite would be appreciated Thanks

Body for Life Forum Message by tcstone (778 posts) at 03:28 PM:
This is how I do my portions: rice and pasta...I still have to measure. I am starting to be able to eyeball it, but I eat 1/2 cup of those at a time. As for protein sources and the palm/fist.....I read somewhere that the right portion of protein is about the size of a tape cassette...which is about the size of your fist. As for thickness...about 1 inch. For a period of time while on another diet, I weighed all of my meats and am real good at getting to know what a 4oz size piece of meat is. Which for me is a portion. I think overall you just have to get used to it and play with the idea. If you feel you are eating too much, you probably are....too little and hungry all the time....try actually measuring for a little bit to get the idea of what a "serving" looks like. Good luck Teresa

Body for Life Forum Message by shkelly (211 posts) at 04:05 PM:
I go strictly with the palm/fist rule. If its rice I simply make it the size of my clinched fist and shape the rice into a ball on the plate to see if it matched my fist and then add or take away. For meat I take the palm of my hand as the size and the thickness of my palm as the thickness for the meat. I have had great success going this way! Hope this helps! Shelly =)

Thread: Peanuts (81 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by tcstone (778 posts) at 03:11 PM: Peanuts
What do we think about peanuts? Just curious. I find myself "snacking" on peanuts (not more than 1 oz in a day). I know there are better nuts, just want to know what we think about peanuts in particular. Teresa

Body for Life Forum Message by tcstone (778 posts) at 03:39 PM:
hey...the sex talk bumped my peanut question off the board. Get back up there! ;)

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 03:46 PM:
Peanuts are good. That is what Natural PB is mashed up Peanuts. 1 tbs of Peanut butter equals 2 tbs of reg. peanuts. Almonds are another good source of nuts. Mmmmm Peaaanut buuuutterrr....

Body for Life Forum Message by LittleBig (67 posts) at 03:46 PM:
I do snack on a few peanuts and almonds when I am making a meal. I am very careful not to over do it. I'm thinking it's not authorized though because it's not like a protein and carb. Although, my peanuts are 7 g protein and 9 grams carbs. I think I'm justifying here. I just figure it's better than that chocolate bar or potatoe chips I could grab!!

Body for Life Forum Message by Can'tStopMe (532 posts) at 03:51 PM:
I think peanuts are great!!! I particularily love them covered in carmel and popcorn. For this very reason, I don't eat them.

Body for Life Forum Message by Scattergold (51 posts) at 03:59 PM:
mmmmm peanut butter and bananas.... mmmmmmm

Body for Life Forum Message by ashtrash (428 posts) at 04:06 PM:
If you absolutely have to have them, just be careful...they a very calorie dense food. Calories add up very quickly when snacking on nuts. Personally, I say save peanuts for free day.

Body for Life Forum Message by Evielee (74 posts) at 04:16 PM:
High in fat also! and sodium (if salted) not good for water retention. In moderation is how I would facor them. Too easy to over snack on for me!

Body for Life Forum Message by nico (187 posts) at 04:36 PM:
I usually eat almond everyday and even when I am cutting. Just pay attention to the quantity. Nuts are really good source of fat

Body for LIFE: Body for LIFE Exercise

Thread: What's Your Elliptical HIIT?? (119 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Everythingirl1 (2 posts) at 05:24 PM:
If you've still got the pain- stop running or elliptical immediately. I did BFL in 2003 and devloped piriformis syndrome in 2004. I kept pushing it (running and doing the elliptical) and now I have PS permanently. Swimming is the best thing to do until it heals- also do lots of yoga stretches and use ice/heat on the affected area. Good luck!!!

Thread: suggestions for another cardio machine to get? (90 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by chantal2bfit (63 posts) at 08:16 AM:
I would be interested to know what treadmill you plan on getting. I'm still debating on whether to get a bike or a treadmill. The stationary bike is more affordable, but I know I'll get bored with it. The treadmill would be ideal, but requires $$$. Another machine I'm considering is the spinning bike.

Body for Life Forum Message by TreeStand (97 posts) at 08:24 AM:
How about a bike trainer that you could hook up your bike to? I have found this opened me to look forward to outside cardio riding the hills around where I live. Most trainers are a little less expensive than a recumbant bike.

Thread: Squats... (170 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Hot Body (625 posts) at 02:57 PM:
So this morning I asked a trainer to show me a squat rack. He demo'ed the traditional Smith machine and then brought me over to another piece of equipment that he said "would be better for" me. I didn't ask him to clarify what he meant by that.

Anyway, have any of you used this kind of equipment - the Precor Super Squat? It wasn't what I needed because it seemed to work more of my hams and glutes than my quads. Here's a picture of the equipment I used: http://www.precor.com/comm/str-pl/pl624/

Body for Life Forum Message by Muscle Head (40 posts) at 03:03 PM:
That machine is more like a hacksquat ... so you need to move your legs closer together to engage the quads more, with no more than 10-12 inches between your heels. The wider your stance the more you bring the glutes into play.

Thread: shy at the gym (92 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Oherra (4 posts) at 11:06 AM: shy at the gym
Is anyone else a bit shy at the gym? The rural community I live in is rather new to the Gym scene. We didn't even have one until the beginning of this year and now we have 3, two women only, and an Anytime Fitness that is 24/7. I, being male, joined the latter. The first time I went was earlier in the morning and it was full of rather out of shape persons much like myself, but I popped in last night for cardio and it was full of younger fit guys and I was a bit self-conscious. So far I've only done cardio in the gym... I've never really lifted weights or used machines so I just feel a bit strange with those, but I'm planning to do a little lifting tomorrow to try and acclimate to it before the start of my program.

Body for Life Forum Message by Agent 69 (579 posts) at 11:24 AM:
trust me, we've all been there. it won't take you long and you'll be an old pro at all the machines and the other equipment. Happy to hear that your starting the program, when is your start date ?

Body for Life Forum Message by amkazen (315 posts) at 11:36 AM:
It may be difficult at first but an easy way to get over that shyness is to ask a short, simple question. Try asking someone working out next to you "Hey, can you spot me on this bench press? I want to try to do 6 reps" It will get easier as you become consistent in going to the gym and your face starts to be recognized as a regular. Pick a time to go to the gym and stick with that same time.

Body for Life Forum Message by David870 (24 posts) at 11:44 AM:
I'm on my first real challenge. My buddy and I started working out at a gym on a Marine Base (I've got permission to do this) last week, and talk about intimidated...here my little pip-squeak redhead self is, around all these big, muscular guys...but big deal. Everybody who's so fit had to start somewhere. I just shut out the fact that I'm as little as I am and I go about doing what I do. What I found out is that if you're polite and considerate, people just don't care what you look like...and you'd be surprised: some of those super huge guys can be cool and might even spot you at some point in time if you are polite. Good luck.

Body for Life Forum Message by BFL bride to be (26 posts) at 11:59 AM:
Try working out at an innercity Y sometime :) They call it "the yard" for a reason- bunch of big, tough, ex-cons and me. As a woman its VERY intimidating, but I just faked the confidence until I really had it, and most of these guys are very accomodating. Sometimes a bit TOO much so. Just get in there and do it!

Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (295 posts) at 12:03 PM:
This is what I do: wear earphones, on or off, and just concentrate on your workouts. This keeps people thinking I'm concentrating (which i am). I do this just to keep people from approaching me and/or talking to me LOL! IT WORKS! In between sets can make or break your timing. If no one can bother you, you've got the upper hand. Dont worry, everyone has to start somewhere! They all were in your shoes at one time! Also, during rest breaks, I scope out EVERYTHING. I look towards the next machine and figure it out before I go to it. Use it to your advantage LOL. Good Luck! xoxo karen

Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (295 posts) at 12:04 PM:
I meant Headphones w/radio or whatever with the power on and off. Heck I've even had dead batteries and still wore the headphones for that purpose lol!

Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (455 posts) at 12:14 PM:
Does your gym offer a free session with a trainer when you join? That made me feel more confortable because it introduced me to someone who would always be there and showed me how to use a few of the machines. I then at least felt like I know what I'm doing. I have since changed up my routine from the one he gave me but it was a good start/icebreaker.

Body for Life Forum Message by Oherra (4 posts) at 01:07 PM:
Thanks for the advice. I am starting my challenge on Monday. The headphones are a good idea, though I'd like to be a little more social... after my agenda is taken care of and not so totally unapproachable. I checked and my gym offers 3 free sessions with a trainer so I will schedule those, that's probably a great way to start.

Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (295 posts) at 02:14 PM:
Ive noticed in the gym that alot of people want it to be social hour and you have a hard time getting your workout in, in the time frame. thats all i meant by that. but i dont blame u for being social. i am still friendly, however, i get sidetracked too easy LOL Good luck! karen

Thread: The "FIRM" Lower Body Work Out 1(Am I doing it right at the gym?) (17 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by MelJ113074 (16 posts) at 07:57 PM: The "FIRM" Lower Body Work Out 1(Am I doing it right at the gym?)
Normally I go to the gym for my workout, but due to my DH's crazy schedule sometimes I can't make it. So since I couldn't make it to the gym today and today should be my LBWO I figured I just pop in one of my FIRM tapes just for the lower body! I'm telling you my legs are like freaking jello. HOLY SHAKY LEGS!!! I knew there was a reason I never opened these lower body workout tapes even though I've had them for about 4 years!!!! Now onto my problem! I feel like when I do some of these tapes I'm getting a better workout than at the gym with the machines! I feel this way because I completely drenched after the stupid warm-up! Please don't tell me I'm working harder with my $100.00 Fanny Lifter/Body Bar w/tapes than I am at my $450.00 per year gym membership (which I just joined 2 weeks ago and can't cancel for a year). Am I doing something wrong at the gym? I'm telling you I can't go one minute more while I'm there. I know I'm hitting most of my 10's. What to do?

Thread: Does anyone use a Crossbow Advantage trainer (15 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by akladydi (12 posts) at 08:03 PM: Does anyone use a Crossbow Advantage trainer
I am considering purchasing a used CrossBow Advantage trainer. Has anyone used one? What do you think? If you do have a Crossbow, do you have an exercise guide?Let me know what you think. Thanks in advance Diane

Thread: Great article! (38 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by wannabegreat (29 posts) at 09:46 PM: Great article!
http://www.bodybuildingsecrets.com/articles/articles/form_the_difference_between_bodybuilding_weight_lifting.php I'm definitely gonna watch my form and go for the masochistic burn. If I can still walk the next day I don't feel like I did enough. (But that's just me I love the pain.) WBG

Body for Life Forum Message by Hot Body (625 posts) at 10:05 PM:
Thanks for posting this! Here's the money quote for me: In his book Get Buffed, Australian Strength Coach Ian King wrote, “I would say that most load selection in strength training is based upon what impact it will have on those watching, not what impact it will have on the body. If you were more serious about your body than your short-term ego, you would take off 75% of the load and perform the movement in a manner that had some lasting impact on your body!” That reminds me of my experience this morning, where I saw a woman with a relatively high BF% squatting nearly 100 pounds. I'm not anywhere near that number yet, so I stupidly turned jealous and then frustrated. Later, as I was leaving the floor, I saw another woman - one with a terrific physique - doing barbell squats with a 40 pound bar. She was taking it slow and looked like she was truly working her quads.

Body for Life Forum Message by hogken (23 posts) at 10:37 PM:
magic huh!

Body for LIFE: Body for LIFE Support

Thread: Starbucks (508 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by LittleBig (67 posts) at 01:51 PM:
My friends and I just call it "Four Bucks". "Lets meet a Four Bucks today for a latte!!!"

Body for Life Forum Message by willowgerl (226 posts) at 02:08 PM: Re:
LittleBig said: My friends and I just call it "Four Bucks". "Lets meet a Four Bucks today for a latte!!!" Now that's funny!

Body for Life Forum Message by Scattergold (51 posts) at 02:09 PM:
Speaking of expensive coffee... this weekend my bf bought a lb of Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee... cost him $50!!! I admit it was good.... but couldnt see getting that more than say, once a year! lol As for Starbucks... my vice is a grande FF latte. mmmmmm.. still nursing mine from this morning lol! I just pop it in the microwave when it cools down ;-)

Body for Life Forum Message by Roe (47 posts) at 04:36 PM:
Linda: its called "very fashionable." Do you noticed we responded to coffee posts more than uppre body weights and concerns??? Coffee is crazy stuff... but I love it! ohh... double ff sugar free latte tall only 100 cal's I add splenda! Sorry I said Splenda, but its just so Splend-dish-ish!

Thread: Be on Oprah? (544 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by JerryBraam.com (129 posts) at 09:14 AM:

Do not forget Cindy Rae Homan !!!

She was the very first BFL Champion on Oprah...

Who has (will) send in their contact info & photos?
This is a great tool to become motivated & accountable.

 JerryBraam

Thread: Newest 2005 BFL Champion! (419 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Gloom Raider (5 posts) at 06:59 PM:
Thank you so much for all your congratulations & well-wishes, I must admit I'm still a little stunned by the news myself ! The very best thing about this title (DEFINITELY NOT the prize!!)is that we'll be able to help even more people discover the benefits of taking up & succeeding in their 12 week challenge & to live a healthier, happier lifestyle thereafter. I'm so excited about the future right now - I don't know if it's the news or the Expo (probably a combination of the 2 !), but I do know that this year is going to be AMAZING !! Paul Mc

Thread: My "Oprah" Experience... (581 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by WorkInProgress (167 posts) at 09:10 PM:
wow! I'm seriously living vicariously through you! We don't get Oprah here in NZ - but I miss her soo much! We just get the occasional 'Oprah Special' Thanks so much for sharing your experience!

Thread: Just wanted to make sure you guys knew... (816 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by FitnessGal4Life (28 posts) at 01:07 PM:
CHERYL!!! You are a huge inspiration and already a winner!! Ditto on all the posts above! I wish I could have been there to see it all and meet you in person! I hope one day our paths will cross in the Vancouver area. God Bless YOU Cheryl! You have inspired me to keep going and push myself in my next work out and the one after that. Three Cheers for Cheryl! Your cyber-friend in fitness, Lisa

Thread: Newcomer says Hi! (156 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by tish (2 posts) at 09:25 AM: Re: Newcomer says Hi!
AnnieBGood said: I'm back to Body for Life after several years of backsliding. LIFE has been difficult, but I decided to take the challenge again. Hope to make a tremendous transformation this year. Thanks to all here who have inspired me, especially those over 50-types!

Thread: Ok Team 8, (62 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by stepor (65 posts) at 09:04 AM:
Hi everyone! I updated our spreadsheet on the web, if you wish to check it out the url is: http://www.geocities.com/stepor/Competition_Original_1_.htm I had mistakenly told a few of you how points were calculated, so I reviewed that on this web page as well! Good Job everyone! Keep up the good Work! Steve

Thread: Public Thank You to KANA, SHKELLY and my other tracker Buds (284 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by shkelly (211 posts) at 10:56 AM:
Dana!! You are one AWESOME chica!! I am so proud of you and all you are doing with your life!! You can do ANYTHING you set your mind to, and you have already proved that with all the stuff you have had to go through!! BIG hugs and I can't wait to see you again!! Shelly =)

Thread: Team #4 Mini Challenge Journal (112 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by GetInShape (73 posts) at 09:21 AM:
OK, Teddy! Just get those eyelashes out of the way. Team 4, Total for this week is 110.8. Doesn’t sounds that impressive but everyone did their part and made improvements. We are still down a member and I have requested that we get another replacement. I’ll keep you posted. I did my cardio and HIIT my 10s this morning, how about you? What workout do you have planned for today? (¯`'•.¸(¯`'•.¸It’s gonna be another good day.•'´¯)¸.•'´¯)

Body for Life Forum Message by LittleBig (67 posts) at 10:06 AM:
Heading out for improving my lower bod in about 10 min. Just wanted to check in! Great week for me so far. Clean eating and all workouts!! Whoo Whooooooo!

Thread: Motivational Quote for Jan. 17, 2006 (57 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by pegs (24 posts) at 03:39 AM:
Great quote. I love quotes and whenever i find new ones i put them as away messages on my aol.

Thread: Team 3 please read (70 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by NormRebs (295 posts) at 09:27 AM:
Make sure you send me your stats!!!! For weeks one and two and week three by monday! Go team 3!!

Thread: Just Released: The "Do It" Video Tribute to Julie Whitt (568 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Supa K (818 posts) at 01:54 AM:
Beautiful -- thank you, Steve.

Body for Life Forum Message by Flower (2298 posts) at 03:42 AM:
Certainly one of the most motivating and emotional experiences I have encountered with BFL. Your efforts are very much appreciated Steve.

Body for Life Forum Message by chimx2 (34 posts) at 04:45 AM:
This just brought me to tears. What an amazing woman and all that she has done by touching so many people. Thank you for making this. Linda in Hawaii

Body for Life Forum Message by mgbuffgirl (69 posts) at 07:46 AM:
Beautiful...you can't watch this and not be inspired.

Body for Life Forum Message by Mellie (677 posts) at 11:35 AM:
This brought me to tears to. Thank you Steve for making this for us! Very, very inspirational and moving.

Body for Life Forum Message by Rod has changed his Bod (517 posts) at 12:41 PM:
AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Body for Life Forum Message by Kerry (1096 posts) at 05:59 PM:
Larry and Steve, Thank you so much! Julie and i never spoke, but had exchanged the occaisional pm through tracker here, and this gave me a chance to get a little bit closer to someone that I would have loved to meet. I have no idea how far the memories of Julie and the lessons of life ahe had to share will carry me.... BUT.... I promise to find out :) Yours in Health, Kerry

Body for Life Forum Message by goingforbuff (1583 posts) at 06:23 PM:
Wow...I watched this through tears and then called in my husband to watch it with me again and still more tears. What a wonderful tribute - Steve, you honored her so beautifully!

Thread: Both my patients died the other night and I've been eating nonstop (379 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by pegs (24 posts) at 03:33 AM:
Hey melanie- thx for updating us on how ur holding up. Im sure everyone feels real good to know that ur doing better. Pegs

Body for Life Forum Message by TJ (615 posts) at 07:11 AM:
Melanie, your job is critical to many people and unfortunately, that need sometimes will be taken personally. It is inevitable. You are so important to your patients. You become their family and they yours. You reach these people on a very sensitive level. You touch their very hearts. That must be a tremendously rewarding feeling. But just as it can be rewarding, it must be difficult to manage the loss often felt. But I must ask how would these people feel about what you are doing to yourself? Remember, from their perspective, YOU were their closet family. YOU made their days better. YOU brightened their day. They looked forward to seeing YOU each day. They wouldn’t want you to torture yourself over their passing. If they could, they would love to say ‘thank you!’ for your care and your love. YOU make a difference every day of your life. Not many people can say that. Morn your loss. You have to do so because you cared. But don’t let it destroy you. These ladies would want you to remember them fondly… not as the reason you are tormented yourself. Lastly, thank you for your service to humanity. Having been in the position to rely upon the nursing staff to meet all my needs for a few months, nurses hold a ‘special’ place in my heart. It is a place of honor. Thank you for making a positive impact on people.

Body for Life Forum Message by gettintoned (13 posts) at 11:20 AM:
Melanie, I work in emergency services and I understand where you are coming from. The first couple of deaths will be quite hard. The dreamers in us go into these jobs because we think we can make it all better. The harsh reality is that sometimes our role is to simply offer comfort in their time of need. That is being more of a hero than you could ever imagine. Each death, while not easier, will become more distant as you learn to watch for cues that allow you to set up your guard and prepare for the inevitable. Each person in the medical field will tell you that they seperate themselves as a form of protection. Does that mean they don't care? Absolutely not. It is proof positive that they care enough about their patients to remain healthy enough mentally to continue to be there to help the next person who might need them. Please please talk to your coworkers as well. I would bet dollars to doughnuts that they have had similar experiences and could help you through this difficult time. Be careful with the funeral. Attending these functions tends to put more reality into the situation. It is quite hard to see the family who is still there. Hang in there and talk your way through this. Remember that crappy foods can also affect your mood and make this time even more difficult than it might have been otherwise. Hit the treadmill and the weights and burn off some of your feelings.

Body for Life Forum Message by AnnieBGood (10 posts) at 01:59 PM:
"Remember that crappy foods can also affect your mood and make this time even more difficult than it might have been otherwise" Ditto, ditto, ditto!

Body for Life Forum Message by goingforbuff (1583 posts) at 06:29 PM:
Mel, all I can say is that I hope someone like you is caring for me when I go!!! I hope things get better and somehow you can change your way of dealing with it from eating for comfort to something else that won't make you feel worse. You will get there - ask others for help as people have suggested above.

Thread: Happy Anniversary to me! (214 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by SportyGirl (128 posts) at 02:55 AM:
Happy Anniversary Teresa! You're such an inspiration and so beautiful inside and out.

Body for Life Forum Message by pegs (24 posts) at 03:44 AM:
CONGRATS- CONGRATS- CONGRATS. Its post like that they make being an BFLer a lifestyle not a program. Keep being an inspiration. I too "wanna be just like u when i grow up" LOL- keep up the good work Pegs

Body for Life Forum Message by Muscle Head (40 posts) at 06:58 AM:
T, if you hadn't made it this far you'd just be plain ole Teresa N Texas. Instead .... You're TNT, you're DYNOMITE !!!!!!! Congrats !!! JS

Body for Life Forum Message by Rod has changed his Bod (517 posts) at 08:29 AM:
You Rock girl!!!!! Look at all the people on here that you have helped and inspired. Always positive with something good to say. That is what comes to mind when I think of TNT. 52 weeks living the BODY FOR LIFE STYLE. What a great testament that this program works and can be worked after completing your first 12 weeks. I bet your husband and family are very proud of you. You know we are!!!!!!!! Your BFL Buddy, Rod

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 09:06 AM:
Thank you, thank you guys! Wow I had no idea you guys felt this way about me. Thanks so much! Ya'll really no how to make a girl feel special. Thanks Again. You guys are the best! Work hard, workout even HARDER!

-T

Body for Life Forum Message by powermom (200 posts) at 10:48 AM:
Congrats to you girl! Thanks for your continued motivation and inspiration!

Thread: Time is running out! HELP! (208 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by blondemom (7 posts) at 05:45 AM:
WOW! Thanks for the encouragement. I have about 30lbs left, but I know I can't lose all of it in 7 weeks; especially since my loss so far has only been 5 lbs. I would be happy with 20 and OK with 15- is that possible? I know I'll have to stay with it for more than 12 weeks, but this is a great trip, and I don't want to hide from the cameras anymore! Can you relate?? I can tell than under the flab, is a bodybuilder......ha

Body for Life Forum Message by RyanCTJ (50 posts) at 06:50 AM:
If you are troubleshooting the BFL program these are the main areas you should look at: -Planning: Are you writing every meal and workout session down and planning what meals/weights etc you will lift before going to the gym? This is imperative to success. -Nutrition: Are you eating 5-6 meals each day, evenly spaced, consisting of the balanced portions of carbs and protein? Are your certain your portions are the right size? Are you certain you are eating only "authorised" foods with each meal? -Training with Intensity: This may be the most important and is a hard thing to explain in writing, but are you sure you are training intensely enough? You should aim to push yourself beyond what you think you are capable of in each and every weights and HIIT session. Don't get stuck in the comfort zone. The BFL program has been shown to work for people of all ages and abilities so if you feel it's not working for you, go back over your diary sheets and see if there is any way it can be tightened up. Saying that, you should focus on progress not perfection, so 5lbs is still a loss and you should be proud of it!

Body for Life Forum Message by alvindsv (109 posts) at 07:02 AM:
Something that help me kinda put things in perspective, is something called The Paper Towel theory. I had never heard of it before until a couple of weeks ago. After reading it, it made so much sense. Below is an excerpt from Dr. Hussman's website www.hussmanfitness.org The Paper Towel Theory As it turns out, you can get fairly good estimates of your bodyfat composition simply from a single skinfold, or by passing a tiny electrical current through your foot, ankle or hands. What this really means is that fat is distributed fairly precisely on the body. And while it's true that some people have larger fat deposits on some parts of their body than others, it's also true that percentage-wise, the fat on your body comes off fairly evenly. That's important to remember when you measure your progress. See, one of the first places you're probably looking for fat loss is on those areas of your body that you think are "too fat." But in fact, that's the last place you should look, because I can guarantee that those areas are still going to look "too fat" for a little while. Think of it this way. If you have a roll of paper towels (or a cassette tape), and you start to unravel it, you can get a good amount off of the roll before you really see a visible change. But as you get further down that roll, even taking off a little more is very apparent. The same is true with your body. The first place you're going to see greater definition is at those areas where the fat deposits are relatively thin already. For most people, this is around the shoulders and clavicles (the two long bones that run just under your neck, connecting your two shoulders to the breast plate). Another reason why this is important is that advertisers often prey on the belief that fat can be "spot-reduced." All the twisty ab-crunchers on the market are perfect examples. Basically, these companies get a fitness model that has followed months or years of weight training, aerobics, and proper nutrition, and have them roll back and forth in one of these things, as if they actually got in shape that way. Or look at all the books promising to help you lose fat "for your type" - pear shaped, apple shaped, dodecahedron shaped - you name it. It's true, for example, that people who are insulin resistant tend to store more fat in the midsection, and that women tend to store more fat in the thigh area. But so what? If you lose the fat, it comes off EVERYWHERE. If a problem area looks "too fat", training that area with exercise may very well improve the definition of the underlying muscles and the overall form of that area. But it will not accelerate fat loss relative to other parts of your body. If the body didn't lose fat uniformly, we'd all wobble around like Weebles because our relatively fixed bone and muscle structure wouldn't be able to tolerate the variation. The best way to change the size of your body is through caloric deficits. The best way to change the shape is through resistance training. The one thing you need to achieve a total physique and fitness transformation is to do EVERYTHING - aerobics, intervals, resistance training, cross-training (physiologist Covert Bailey calls these the "four food groups of exercise"), small frequent meals, high-quality protein and carbohydrates, low-glycemic nutrition, proper supplementation, water, and rest. As Shawn Phillips says, "the one thing, is everything." So again, if you're looking for results in the mirror, look for the first signs of improved definition at those areas where muscle is relatively close to the surface. For most people, this is the upper chest and shoulder area. After two weeks, you probably won't see enormous visible changes elsewhere. But those changes are happening anyway. You should definitely be keeping track of how your clothes feel. Go to the closet and pick out an outfit that's just a little too tight. Put it aside. You'll want to try it on occasionally. Waist measurements can also capture fat loss that isn't necessarily evident in the mirror.

Body for Life Forum Message by Suzieq (223 posts) at 07:51 AM:
I didn't start to notice a change until about my 8th week and than I was constantly changing. Keep a positive outlook and don't give up. If you're following the program correctly you will see changes. Sue

Body for Life Forum Message by Tomcat1066 (174 posts) at 08:10 AM:
I generally try to avoid putting to much emphasis on the scale. I focus more on body fat percentage, which is in my opinion a much better gauge of how well you are doing and how your gains are. I only wish I could spot reduce, because this gut has GOT to go :D Tom

Body for Life Forum Message by blondemom (7 posts) at 03:26 PM:
I've never thought about the paper towel theory! I'll stay off that dang scale, and go by how my jeans fit. I will be anxiously awaiting the melting to begin.

Thread: Cruise Challenge Entries Extended!!! (77 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Megan'sMom (249 posts) at 11:14 AM:
There's nothing about the date change on this link. Help? I'd love a chance to enter. Laurie

Body for Life Forum Message by AngRoCamp (158 posts) at 11:39 AM:
It shows the dates extended to 1/22 now :) ~Ang

Thread: Who is Carla Sanchez? (171 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by 3D (68 posts) at 11:49 AM:
The only Carla Sanchez I know of is a fitness competitor and bodybuilder. I don't know if the person in the picture is the same person. She doesn't look the same but it's been a while since i followed her career. I knew of her back in the 90's. I was going to look thru the champions page to see if this Carla Sanchez is in there.

Body for Life Forum Message by MariahBFL (12 posts) at 12:08 PM:
That's Kelly Adair in the black strapless dress! :)

Body for Life Forum Message by 3D (68 posts) at 12:12 PM:
I just googled Carla Sanchez and she is the one I spoke of above. She has a couple of websites: Carlasanchez.com and pr.com. I'm not so sure pr.com is correct but the carla site sends you to the other one.

Thread: BFL Bracelet (156 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Pixy (411 posts) at 11:55 AM:
Mine is to big for me I got for doing a challenge in 2005. Don't feel bad you should keep yours.

Body for Life Forum Message by Mellie (677 posts) at 12:48 PM:
There were only 28!!!!! Wow, I feel stingy because I bought two and one of Julies Baby Blue, Believe Achieve Inspire bracelets...maily to help "support the cause" but I also got 2 of the red BFL ones incase one breaks!Maybe call EAS to see if they are still giving them to people who finish the 12 week challenge because they are always changing how things are done!

Body for Life Forum Message by FitnessGal4Life (28 posts) at 12:54 PM:
Someone try to email BFL from the "contact us" and let us know what they say. I tried but I have to go through this huge international process because I live in Canada. Thanks!!!

Body for Life Forum Message by GET*HER*DONE (3002 posts) at 07:27 PM:
Mine is part of me, it doesn't come off, neither does my Julie Whitt bracelet or my weightlifting chain Tracy sent me GET*HER*DONE!!

Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (295 posts) at 10:26 PM:
Just contacted BFL through email. I will post as soon as I hear a reply. xoxo karen

Thread: Any Oklahoma BFLers? (28 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by 1leanmom (21 posts) at 07:53 AM:
hi brian...I've also wondered if any others were from oklahoma... I'm in broken arrow, ok...and haven't seen but a couple who are bfl-ers...however, I noticed that 2 of the 15 finalists were from ok (tulsa and bartlesville)!! yeaaa! have a great week! jen

Body for Life Forum Message by annie1104 (272 posts) at 09:37 AM:
Hi Brian and Jen, I am from Tulsa. I can't post as often as I once did due to internet monitoring at work, but I do read the posts as often as I can! Annie

Thread: Your Most Powerful Transformation Tool (138 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by blemt (179 posts) at 04:27 AM: Your Most Powerful Transformation Tool
People talk about the key ingredient for a successful transformation. They talk about desire, motivation, planning, equipment, suppliments. There's one thing I don't see mentioned nearly often enough. Faith. Now I'm not talking about religious faith, though that's something that I know many successful BFLers have. I'm talking about a deep, profound belief that this transformation is actually possible. A belief so deep, so true, that when things get dark, you KNOW that if you just hang on a second longer, you can make this happen. BFlers have a great gift before us. We have living proof that amazing transformations can and do happen to ordinary people. People just like us. These people show us that by putting away our fears, by believing in the process 100% that you can make a 180 degree turn in your life. You have living, breathing proof. Every single successful transformee stood where you are. They were upset by how they looked, and how they felt. They stood at the abyss. Then they did something truly scary. They stepped off the edge. They committed 110 percent to the process. When they made that step, they never looked back. This is week three. I know that some of you out there still haven't crossed the Abyss. In the back of your mind, you know this can't actually work. Somewhere between now and week 12- you are going to find a way to prove yourself right. That big, black hole is scary, dark, the wind howls up at you. It's trying to suck you in. Nobody is going to blame you for backing away from the edge. I mean come on. It's scary, you can't see what's at the bottom, you can't see how far it is. Back away. Afterall, you don't want to fall. That's the easy choice. Or You can look at the black void in front of you. You can't see the bottom. It's dark, empty, the wind is blowing. Your hair stirrs in the breeze. Close your eyes. No, trust me. Close them. Feel the wind. Listen to the sounds. Do you hear that. That tiny breath of heaven, that small voice saying "can" You have to strain to hear it. Step closer. Listen to it. "can". It's just out of reach. Step closer. No, it's okay- trust me. Take that step. Let the wind catch you, support you. Step. Keep your eyes closed, don't worry about falling. Step. Listen to a fallen champion, let her carry you forward. Step. Listen to the voices telling you- CAN Trust me. This journey never ends. You won't fall. Believe. When all else fails you- Believe that you can keep taking that next small step. Crossing the Abyss is all about faith. Those of us who've crossed are there to keep you from falling. Trust us, believe. Close your eyes... STEP

Body for Life Forum Message by On~my~way (289 posts) at 07:23 AM:
Thanks for a great post!

Body for Life Forum Message by J-Dub (262 posts) at 07:25 AM:
Awesome.

Body for Life Forum Message by Dana D (561 posts) at 07:57 AM:
Blemt.. Thank you. This post has moved me to tears this morning, and it really hit home for me. I heard *HER* voice clear as day!! Thank you for renewing my faith and taking me back to the edge. Its a scary place but SOOOOO worth the risk! Hugs..Dana

Body for Life Forum Message by GetInShape (73 posts) at 07:57 AM:
I agree, great post. This is a keeper!

Body for Life Forum Message by scrappinmichelle (43 posts) at 08:06 AM:
Thank you for this great post! (Sob, sob, sob) Sometimes all we need is a reminder!!!

Body for Life Forum Message by Flower (2298 posts) at 08:49 AM:
Very profound. Even at the lowest times whenever I had my doubts about succeeding at this I never ever once regretted taking this on.

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 08:52 AM:
I mention it ALL the time! Because when all else fails and it's not working faith is going to get you through it! I know it did for me! Great post! It is VERY true! FAITH will see you through it!

Body for Life Forum Message by Boise Lifer (18 posts) at 08:54 AM:
GREAT post. Love it! Live it! =)

Body for Life Forum Message by cajungirl (1 posts) at 09:07 AM:
Awsome Post. Believe and Receive or Complain and Remain. --Joyce Meyer --- .. I stepped off in Week 2, with tears in my eyes!

Body for Life Forum Message by kitwhit (32 posts) at 09:10 AM:
Blemt thank you so much for this wake up call. Every day I fight the negative person I want to leave behind. Every day the voice tells me "Yes, these other people did it and are doing it but you aren't doing it right and you will not succeed." So far I have been able to ignore this voice but I'm tired of it being there. I will print this post out and hang it all over my house!!! I CAN DO THIS!!! I CAN!!!

Body for Life Forum Message by BFL bride to be (26 posts) at 09:18 AM:
Or how about desire, ask, believe, receive. Gotta love it!

Thread: Motivational Quote for Jan. 18, 2006 (37 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by alvindsv (109 posts) at 04:43 AM: Motivational Quote for Jan. 18, 2006
The discipline you learn and character you build from setting and achieving a goal can be more valuable than the achievement of the goal itself. - Bo Bennett

Body for Life Forum Message by pegs (24 posts) at 11:34 PM:
Hey Bo, keep them coming- i love quotes and these r real relevant to doing BFL for life. For example, when i started on this program i was aiming for one good week of eating healthy and now into week 2 I am developing a taste for healthy foods. i am actually craving rice cakes, apples, a turkey burger, veggies- instead of my usual fried chicken, french fries and coffee ice cream cravings. Its only been two weeks but i can really see myself eating like this for life. well sorry for my long post- just wanted to say nice quotes. pegs

Thread: how much protein? (49 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Coco (516 posts) at 07:43 AM: how much protein?
hi guys, my bf follows bfl except he doesn't do the cardio. i would love to tell you that it really impairs his progress, but he has a great pysique. he's genetically lucky i guess. anyway, he was talking about how much protein he thinks he needs and i really have no clue. he weighs 210 and is 6'4". he wants to put on more muscle. i remember several months ago a thread was posted about how you can gain muscle and you don't need as much protein as was once thought, but i can't find it. any advice would be great, thanks!

Body for Life Forum Message by nico (187 posts) at 02:47 PM:
Usually 1.5 to 2 grams lean body mass are good ratio for bulking. Regarding cardio, we are all different and there is no 1 rule apply all. Why am I saying this: Because I lean out pratically with any cardio, just like your boyfriend. Everybody's genetics is so different.

Body for Life Forum Message by Roe (47 posts) at 04:41 PM:
look at it this way.... look at all the bfl males that have suceeded in the past. Does your bf want to look like them in regards to their demensions? if so, Just follow the plan! a portion of proteina t every meal and avg. it to his hand size. he is not lifting weights like a bodybuilder would, considering he is following the plan, so any excess with turn to fat. He neesd to put trust in the program, NO EXCUSES!!! roe, good luck I have a hubby who believes the same system!

Thread: What Personal Training Certification do you have??? (187 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by GetNFit (792 posts) at 08:13 AMWhat Personal Training Certification do you have??? is not ''>: What Personal Training Certification do you have???
Hey Gang,

I was curious what personal training certification you have, how long did it take you to study & pass the test, and what was your average cost?

Through research and word of mouth Ive been told ACE is the most recognized and respected, however I know there have been comments about folks taking "easier" tests just so they could get their certification.

I was talking the other day with one of the BFL Champs and she said she took an easier route just so she could officially/legally start training at her gym.

Was just curious to see the other options out there!

Keep Pump'n

Robin

Body for Life Forum Message by shkelly (211 posts) at 08:54 AM:
Well I just took my exam and will know if I passed next week!!. I went through ISSA and hit it HARD! I purchased the home study 2wks ago last Friday. It's been really hard to go through it that fast but I am anxious to start training so I put the hours in. Mine was $500 for the study books and the online exam. HTH Robin and good luck!! Shelly =)

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 09:03 AM:
The ACE is usually the 1st one people get. My workout partner who is a PT is nagging at me to train and said to get that cert. first and as you start to actually be PT and get hands on exp. then you can go for other cert.s that qualify you for more $$ in your services. But she said the best way you are going to learn how to be a good trainer is just getting cert. and working hands on with people at a gym. Then just getting dif. cert.s qualify you different things. Hope that helps. Work hard, workout even HARDER!

-T

Body for Life Forum Message by JerryBraam.com (129 posts) at 09:07 AMWhat Personal Training Certification do you have??? is not ''>: Re: What Personal Training Certification do you have???

My choice...

ISSA

Body for Life Forum Message by lapowell (127 posts) at 09:08 AM:
I have ACE. I studied for a couple of months. I really analized and understood everything, not just memorizing it. I learned every bone& mucsle and how they work together as well as the 5 systems in the body(nervous,skeletal,respitory,ect) O go to lots of seminars/conventions & hired one lady as a trainer for me, she really showed me the difference between good, great and not so great trainers. Lee Anne

Body for Life Forum Message by goingforbuff (1583 posts) at 11:05 AM:
I have an ACE certification. I would like to get the NASM Pt certification next, but may have to choose another route due to $$$ right now (I have to keep my ACE cert current with 2.0 CEC's every 2 years...mine will run out in August, so I need to get moving!) I took preperatory classes after doing self study for a few months. This equated to about 40 hours of class instruction. Can't remember how much I paid, but it couldn't have been too high if I don't remember, lol! ACE is a good one to start with.

Body for Life Forum Message by Mellie (677 posts) at 11:09 AM:
NASM is now requiring lots of formal education to even get certified with them. My fiance is ACSM certified, test was pretty hard but open book, they have since changed that and it is no longer open book.

Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (455 posts) at 11:26 AM:
I have a NETA Group Exercise Cert. They offer Personla training as well. The Group Ex. cert was $300 and an 8 hour clinic.and I think the Personal Trainer is a 2 day clinic and I think it's $600 or so.

Body for Life Forum Message by jeremy (1104 posts) at 12:41 PM:
I dont think ACE is the most recognized or most respected. There is nothing wrong with ACE but I have heard that NSCA is number one. On the other hand I have the ISSA and love it. If I was going to do another which I may I would choice NSCA specifically CSCS

Body for Life Forum Message by WorkInProgress (167 posts) at 01:12 PM:
I took the ACE Exam back in 98 - when it was just a multiple-choice exam. My impression (and colleagues who work in the industry with me) is not too great with ACE. I have since completed successful the Canadian Fitness Professionals course and exam (both written and practical) as Personal Trainer Specialist. All told, the CanFitPro course cost around $400 and my annual membership and CEC (continuing education courses) probably ran me around another $300 - but well worth it for professional credibility. Having now moved to NZ, I've had my quals verified by the REP (registered exercise professionals) group here and received their certificate too. They also require PT's to complete annual CEC's. My advice is to find a course that fits your needs, ask those in the industry if it is credible. For your own peace of mind, I always suggest looking for a course that requires both a written and practical exam and CEC's (as this keeps your knowledge current!).

Body for Life Forum Message by GetNFit (792 posts) at 05:13 PM:
Thanks so much for all your comments!!

Body for Life Forum Message by GET*HER*DONE (3002 posts) at 05:56 PM:
I was certified thru ACE 1st ,had to travel to Atlanta it became expensive due to the travel but then after I was teaching it dawned on me that anyone can study and pass a test but do actually teach an aerobic class is alot different then putting it on paper, so then I got certified thru AAFA which was expensive due to travel again but their was a workshop that tested you on your skills to teach. I really liked that one. I am now getting certified for PT and I and going by my GYM owners recommendation and using FITOUR It's only $100 and you can take it on line. I recieved my books and DVD's today. GET*HER*DONE LINDA

Body for Life Forum Message by goingforbuff (1583 posts) at 05:57 PM:
ACE is a good base to start with for the beginner, in my opinion. Is it the best or most recognized or respected - no. But it is a good, basic knowledge set that their certification requires. I had not heard about NASM requiring formal education in order to become certified...I will have to check it out. I will also look at the others mentioned here. Great thread!

Body for Life Forum Message by jps2lean (51 posts) at 11:36 PM:
I have my sports nutritionist certification from IFA and I know that they do personal trainer cert. too. It took me about 2 months to study for it and it cost about 200. (as far as I can remember--I think it is time for me to recertify)

Thread: BFL exercise (49 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by tish (2 posts) at 09:30 AM: BFL exercise
The exercise intensity intimidates me. I've not tried BFL before but am considering it since the reviews are great. I'm 52, 5'5", 200 lbs and not very active. Any advise, feedback, suggestions will be appreciated. Thanks.

Body for Life Forum Message by Mikmindz (71 posts) at 09:43 AM:
Try not to be intimidated. Think of it like this. The intensity scale goes from 5 to 10. If you begin walking slowly at 5, just make a mental effort to go faster in minute three when the intesity goes to 6. A little faster at seven. A little faster at 8. And when you start out your nines may not be that fast at all. But it is YOUR nine. As you do more and more, each level you will be able to do more or go faster. Every persons thresholds are different and especially when you start up a program from not being active, there will be a ramping up process. This program fits that well, because it takes into account that everyone will have different intensity levels. Hope this helps

Body for Life Forum Message by RyanCTJ (50 posts) at 09:47 AM:
Don't worry, BFL uses an intensity scale which means anyone, regardless of age or fitness level can do the program and get amazing results. Just look at the many before and after photos on the website, or even better this tracker, and you'll see that it works for anyone who applies the principles. As for the exercise itself...It involves spending no more than 4 hours per week in the gym, cycling weights workouts with 20min high intensity cardios. As long as have the desire to change and apply yourself mentally to each and every workout, you will succeed! It's not about how much weight you can lift, or lifting with bad form, or training so hard you give yourself a heart attack. Intensity isn't measured like that. You start the program at your unique levels, and build up from there. I would go on but I'm beginning to sound like Bill now, so it's probably best to just read the book, make the decision, and get stuck in. There's never been a better time!

Thread: In a slump... (283 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by sunshinyday69 (7 posts) at 09:36 AM: In a slump...
I started a new challenge as of January 2nd with all sorts of spunk and gusto...but now it's already fizzled. My eating is ok but the exercising has been almost nonexistent!I know this probably happens with most people. So, for those of you that it did..how did you get your motivation back? I know I want to but can't peel myself out of bed in the morning to get on that treadmill lol. Kathy

Body for Life Forum Message by Pixy (411 posts) at 09:46 AM:
Do you have small goals that you are going for? The 12 weeks is a long way if you are only looking at the finish line.

Body for Life Forum Message by Mikmindz (71 posts) at 09:49 AM:
I had great success earlier this year and the key for me was rereading my goals and a paragraph that I had written that basically spelled out the consequences of not doing the daily regimen. Funny thing. I had lost that page from my book and thought since I had gone ten weeks in a row with great enthusiasm that I had made it a "habit." Once I stopped reading that page, I lost focus and stopped doing everything. I have now made copies and put them in my home office, work office and in my workout bag. I will not lose this and will read it every day to keep on track. Hope this helps. Mike

Body for Life Forum Message by NormRebs (295 posts) at 09:49 AM:
Kathy, I know it's hard to get started and to get out of a nice warm bed but, GET UP and GET GOING!!! Once you consistently get up and get going it will become second nature. If you still cant get up in the AM can you still workout during the day? You just need to make a decision to JUST DO IT! I am not a morning person and hate getting up at "O dark thirty" (0530) but once I did it for around three weeks it became easier! You'll be glad that you did!

Body for Life Forum Message by Agent 69 (579 posts) at 10:08 AM:
sunshinyday.........you are not alone!!! I too was full of anticipation, eager to get started on Jan 2nd.....started very well and THEN week 2 day 1 developed an awful head cold that hung on for 8 full days.....I was unable to exercise due to loss of equalibrium. My eating was very good, I had a loss of 1 lb. in week 2.......then I think I had a gain early this week of 2 lbs. because I had been unable to get any calories burned off. All we can do is get started now, today....treat this as day 1. Today is the best I have felt since the first day I became ill......I got in 100 ab crunches before work this morning....I'll try for another 100 when i go home for lunch.....then I'll hit the gym for a killer cardio workout afterwork today. I refuse to let 1 week of illness damage all that I have worked for And all that I strive to become in the next 9 weeks.

Body for Life Forum Message by shkelly (211 posts) at 11:01 AM:
Kathy, remember your mind is the most important tool to help you. What are you feeding it? Are you hard on yourself? If so, STOP and create a new habit of healthy self talk. Are you surrounding yourself with negative people or support? Visualize yourself where you want to be and you WILL get there!! Keep a mental picture in your head at ALL times! Keep yourself accountable, like keep a journal online for people to see if that helps. Whatever you do, make sure you do it for YOU!! Because you like yourself that much! You are worth it and can do it!!! Keep it up, Shelly =)

Body for Life Forum Message by Flower (2298 posts) at 11:01 AM:
For a little inspiration & motivation go to the tribute video to Julie Witt. Watch that and then decide to just do it.

Body for Life Forum Message by tcstone (778 posts) at 11:30 AM:
oooh...Flower....awesome advice. This is what I was thinking during LBWO today. Just do it. Because I CAN just do it. There is no other excuse. I would have MUCH rather joined my friends at the mexican dive....my favorite place....but instead I was in the gym. Just doing it. Awesome viedo. It took forever for my computer to download it. But SOOO worth the wait. Just pause it will it downloads completely.

Body for Life Forum Message by amkazen (315 posts) at 11:33 AM:
Is there anyone locally who can work out with you? For me, local support is the way to keep going!

Body for Life Forum Message by AngRoCamp (158 posts) at 11:38 AM:
Just want you to know you're not alone. My exercise is great but I'm really struggling during this challenge to stay focused on correct eating. This wasn't much of a problem for me at all during challenge #1, but it is a struggle this time. Just trying to work through it one hour at a time :) Keep plugging along!! You'll find your groove. Whatever you do, DON'T GIVE UP! ~Ang

Body for Life Forum Message by Booloo (27 posts) at 11:53 AM:
You are not alone!! Sooner or later the high of starting a new program stars to wear off. But think of it this way: are you happy with how you are, at this moment? Are you satisfied to stay where you were 3 weeks ago? Nothing but eating right and exercise is going to change your mind and body. So just do it! Take each day one at a time. Promise yourself to just do what you know you have to do, and get through that moment. Skipping workouts is only going to make you feel worse. We ALL have days, weeks or months where the going gets REALLY tough. When I hit a snag, I look at my before pics and weight/measurement info, I look at the progress I've made, i sit and deliberately pay attention to how I physically feel - which is SO superior to how I felt before. Then I start reading blogs, looking at before and after pics, and reach out to other BFLers for support. You can do this!! Prove to yourself that you DO have what it takes to get tough and rock this challenge. Heather

Body for Life Forum Message by Rod has changed his Bod (517 posts) at 12:47 PM:
I concur what Tracey said, which was awesome advice, Go watch the tribute video to Julie Whitt and it will def help you get out of that slump. "just do it"

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 01:10 PM:
I agree with the advice Tracey gave you and maybe re-examining why you are doing this. Dig deep down inside yourself and ask "HOW BAD DO YOU WANT IT?" The other thing I realize is once i get in the gym I feel GREAT it's the getting there that sometimes can be hard. Now it is automatic I just go....even when I don't want to. But to get to where it is like that you have to "discipline" yourself. That means doing things you don't want to when you don't want to. That means when you get there pushing yourself even harder when you do get there. You have to want it! Work hard, workout even HARDER!

-T

Body for Life Forum Message by BIG BULL (920 posts) at 01:12 PM:
Kathy.........well now you have proven what we all have proven at one point or another....IT AIN'T EASY! This whole program is set up to make you face "resistance." It's what you do at that moment of "resistance" that counts. You will fail sometimes when you come up against it...NEWSFLASH...WE ALL HAVE! Whether it is strength resistance or eating clean resistance or getting up and doing it resistance or struggling through one more rep resistance.....bottom line you have to overcome whatever "resistance" is at hand at that moment! Tomorrow morning try this.......Set your alarm 10 minutes earlier and allow yourself time to "get ready" mentally and physically for that treadmill. Countdown to starting time and as you get closer to that "resistance" engage your mind even more resolutely. When the clock hits zero (like hitting the top of the rollercoaster...the point of no return) you are on that treadmill and intensely focused for your best workout! Let me know how that goes for you. BIG BULL

Body for Life Forum Message by sunshinyday69 (7 posts) at 01:26 PM:
WOW! You guys are all incredible!! Thanks so much for all of the words of encouragement. I'll be reading these every day and will check out the video. Thank you, thank you everyone. I think I'll be posting more often too...you all are the best :) Kathy

Body for Life Forum Message by TaraC29 (135 posts) at 02:23 PM:
Great advice Big Bull! That is what I HAVE to do to get my HIIT in early...set my alarm 10 mins early but know that by 6:05, my butt WILL be on that elliptical.

Right now just focus on making it a habit, even if you can't give it 110%...just do it! You will be SOOO glad you did! GOOD LUCK!

Body for Life Forum Message by FitnessGal4Life (28 posts) at 02:38 PM:
I'm in week 7 now and have only missed 4 workouts so far (Christmas). I admit that I need to be more strict with my eating. So don't be too hard on yourself, we all have challenges to get past. I'm trying to get through a plateau right now. The best thing lately that I've done to keep me in the gym is that I found a gym buddy. I met her at the gym I go to and we keep each other accountable to get there after work. We juggle our schedules to meet at the gym, email each other and exchanged phone numbers so that if we call to cancel the gym, we talk each other into getting there! I also spread the word of BFL to her and it's been great to have a partner in your corner! I find posting on Tracker for help from time to time has helped me a lot!! We're all it this together! Cheers, now go to the gym. You'll be glad you did. Lisa

Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (455 posts) at 03:00 PM:
How I do it: Sleep in my running clothes Get out of bed and think only about the coffee I'm gonna get at the gas station on my way to the gym Enjoy coffee all the way to the gym Run, because I am at the gym. Works for me.

Body for Life Forum Message by J-P-S-524 (55 posts) at 03:17 PM:
I like that plan, Reagiesmom! The more I go to the gym the more I want to go. One thing I always try to remember is a line from Pam Brown "One minute at a time." ~Tried To Amend My Carnivorous Habits~

Body for Life Forum Message by Roe (47 posts) at 04:45 PM:
Kathy!! I STARTED JAN 2nd too DONT YOU GIVE UP GIRL!! Set an example foreveryone here. I jsut don;t like to hear this negitivity!!! You can do it, get through one day at a time and quit lokking so far up ahead, we are not there yet, so just get through today, read the posts, pick up the bfl book while going tothe bathroom, and FIND TIME TO RUN TODAY !!!!! jornal too! BUT DONT YOU DARE GIVE UP>>>>> you have alredy gone too far!!! Jsut keep moving..... forward.. you got it, keep going.... mind over matter...

Body for Life Forum Message by SunTiger (2 posts) at 04:54 PM:
Kathy, I started my challenge on Jan. 3. The only thing that keeps me going is rewards! I found that buying a treadmill for home and using my netflix account to watch all the series I ever wanted to from the BEGINNING puts me on the treadmill every single evening except my freeday or when an absolute emergency happens. Netflix = rewards;) As Roe said...just keep moving, no matter what! Val

Body for Life Forum Message by wannabegreat (29 posts) at 06:40 PM:
For me, BFL isn't a choice. I don't give myself the option of working out or not. I just know in the morning that I have to do it. If I let the momentum slow I may stop and never start again. That's my motivation...if I stop it'll be over. If I keep going I'll be fit! Playing tag with my kids and riding my bike like a kid again are also rewards that are keeping me on the straight and narrow. Having fun is something I've missed for awhile. And, last, this Challenge is going to be neverending for me. I know just from looking at the patterns here on this site that if a person stops they'll gain it back. So maybe I can slow down eventually, but this is body for LIFE.

Body for Life Forum Message by kitwhit (32 posts) at 07:14 PM:
Kathy - we are Jan 2 buddies now! My first challenge. I know for a fact I have not been perfect so far. I am only just starting to learn where my 10s are. I am only now learning that my meals only have to last me a few hours and so I should pay more attention to my portions (this is especially difficult for me at "dinner"). I did buy a treadmill 2 years ago and in this past 2.5 weeks I have been on it more often than I was in the previous 2 years! I do my HIIT as scheduled NO MATTER WHAT - when the f**king alarm rings at 5:45 I get up. I also try to do 20 minutes of level 5 on my non-HIIT mornings. But if the alarm goes off on those mornings and I don't feel like it I just decide to hit my 10s extra hard at the gym after work. At 43 I am determined that this is a life change for me and so if it takes me a 12 week challenge to learn how to do it that's OK. I'm on the right track. You are too. WE CAN DO THIS GIRL!!!!!

Body for Life Forum Message by michiganmike (264 posts) at 07:50 PM:
HERE'S a surefire method of getting it done. Promise yourself that you will get out of bed EARLY every day that you are supposed to. Keep that promise to yourself. Act your way to better thinking--and you will always be a victor. Try to think your way into better actions, and you will always be a poser. Right now, your actions don't match what you say. You say "I know I want to" but you do "I'd rather sleep in." I beg you, stop listening to and relying on cheap enthusiasm that won't get you anything, and place some much needed discipline in your life. KEEP YOUR PROMISES TO YOURSELF INSTEAD OF LYING TO YOURSELF!

Thread: COLORADO BFLers (23 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Soefsoef (7 posts) at 10:20 AM: COLORADO BFLers
Hi guys, If anyone is in the Denver area, the BFL Colorado club is getting together on Saturday. Please see http://groups.msn.com/BodyForLifeColorado/_whatsnew.msnw for details and to RSVP ("General" discussion board). Hope to see you there! Christina A.

Thread: % Break Down? (68 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by NormRebs (295 posts) at 10:36 AM: % Break Down?
 

Break Down

What is the break down on % that you should eat a day?
Anyone?

Protein/Carbs/Fat

Norm

Body for Life Forum Message by shkelly (211 posts) at 10:48 AM:
40/40/20 HTH Norm!! You are doing such an AWESOME job! Shelly =)

Body for Life Forum Message by amodellawyer (38 posts) at 11:01 AM:
I just try to eat equal amounts of protein and carbs. In my experience the fat seems to regulate itself when you eat equal amounts of healthy protein and carbs

Body for Life Forum Message by NormRebs (295 posts) at 11:15 AM:
Thanks Shelly for your compliment and input! amodellawyer, thanks I didn't think of that. The reason I asked is; I have this website that keeps track of everything I eat and the nutritional information as well. I just wanted to see if I was in range with the #'s of each.

Thread: Logging in? (75 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by NormRebs (295 posts) at 11:53 AM: Logging in?
Why do I have to log in every 10 minutes on this site.
It keeps logging me off.
Does anyone else have the same problem?
Norm

Body for Life Forum Message by Tomcat1066 (174 posts) at 12:14 PM:
yep. I think there are several of us for some odd reason. Tom

Body for Life Forum Message by Mellie (677 posts) at 12:41 PM:
Happens to me too just not that often, like every 30 minutes.

Body for Life Forum Message by fitnesscrazedmom (49 posts) at 01:19 PM:
Happens to me constantly also. didn't use to month ago. Did anyone ask the master?

Body for Life Forum Message by Scattergold (51 posts) at 01:21 PM:
Just started doing this to me today.... also noticed the site was completely unaccessable this morning for about 30 mins...

Body for Life Forum Message by Megan'sMom (249 posts) at 03:33 PM:
This has happened to me since I first joined last October, I figured it was your guys way to trying to get rid of me! I paid to join, thinking it would help, but it didn't - I'm still glad that I'm supporting this site though that supports me so much. Thanks for saying something! Laurie

Body for Life Forum Message by Megan'sMom (249 posts) at 03:34 PM:
Oh yeah, the worst is when it does it right after I've written a post and it won't let me post it! Laurie

Body for Life Forum Message by Go4steffie (826 posts) at 04:25 PM:
Happens to me too....but it didn't used to! Stef :-)

Body for Life Forum Message by nico (187 posts) at 04:29 PM:
Same thing here. Maybe it is telling us that it is time to shut and go train (lol)

Thread: team one (51 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Booloo (27 posts) at 12:47 PM: team one
Hi all, Crone (Carla?) let me join your team yesterday. I'd love to meet my team members...would you all mind giving me a little blurb about yourself? Short and sweet is fine, I'd just like to know who my kicking-tail partners are! Also, would someone mind telling me the ropes and details of the team challenge? I'm new to the boards and missed the info in the beginning. Thanks! I'm anxious to rock with you all!! Heather

Body for Life Forum Message by Mellie (677 posts) at 12:53 PM:
Hi, my name is Melissa and I like long walks in the park and movies....just kidding! Seriously, I am on team one! Carla can give you the run down on rules and what not...but mainly you just need to report to her every monday you current weight, bf%, if you drank the required water,and ate all meals to plan! Pretty simple! I am on my 2nd Challenge (which is dedicated to Julie Whitt so I am hitting it extra hard). Hmm, lets see, I have about 14 lbs more to reach my ULTIMATE goal and will try to maintain from there! I take this life style WAY seriously so I am a good team mate to have! Tells us more about you! What are your goals?

Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (455 posts) at 03:15 PM:
Hi! I'm Kelli, also on team 1. Glad you joined! My goal for this mini challenge is to get under 140#.... I am at 144.5 now. I am a pretty serious runner but totally new to weight lifting. What are your goals? Good luck to ya!

Body for Life Forum Message by Agent 69 (579 posts) at 03:49 PM:
Hi, glad to have you on the #1 Team NOT team 1...... ;) this is my 2nd challenge and had great progress in challenge 1---looking to outdo myself this time around. (mellie) I do love long walks and movies but my most favorite thing is 2o minutes of kickass cardio on the stairmaster

Body for Life Forum Message by crone (597 posts) at 03:56 PM:
I'm Carla The Team captain and the nut running this thing. I've had a lot of fun though. Have been super busy, sorry team but I will be better starting tomorrow. supervisor will be gone all day. YOOHOOO. Monday I discovered side bends with weights. I thought they were way to easy until yesterday when I was laying down and my side hurt so bad (sore) I had to sit up. I did sets of 15 8#, 12 10#, 10 12#, 8 15# and 6 20#. Can't wait to do them again on Fri.

Body for Life Forum Message by Mellie (677 posts) at 03:58 PM:
Carla, be careful doing those too often, women get boxy doing those too often (or at least thats what I have been warned!)

Body for Life Forum Message by Booloo (27 posts) at 09:34 PM:
It looks like I'm in good company! Very nice to meet all of you. I look forward to keeping each other motivated. I started BFL in March of 2004, and did it for a year. Then we moved last June and I got so scattered I just stopped eating well, never set my equipment up, then stopped running... the rest is Fat City history. I have 12 lbs to go until I hit where I was hanging fairly constant for a long time during BFL, and would like to get under 130. But more importantly, I want my biceps back!! Kelli, I am also a runner, but I don't do it very well. I'm thinking of training for a 10k this summer. Small steps, I just need to keep up with running intervals and maybe a 30 minute run once a week for now, and then this spring I can hit the pavement and make those longer runs more interesting (I live in WI). On a more personal note, I like movies and long walks... hee hee.. I have two girls, ages 6 and 3.5, I stay home with them, and am going to school to finish my degree in elementary ed. So I get stressed on a regular basis regarding papers and chapters to be read and all the thinking I have to do some days. Heather

Thread: Cant help but feel guilty eating carbs (174 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Scattergold (51 posts) at 01:20 PM: Cant help but feel guilty eating carbs
I am completely convinced that carbs is what is keeping me from loosing any weight =( I've been following the diet, but the scale hasnt budged at all, and I can't help but feel like the carbs is the culprit! I work out early in the morning, and dont eat until about an hour after my workout... usually a protein shake... do the carbs I eat with dinner even last til the next morning? I'm so confused about why my weight isnt seeming to budge at all... =( I know I'm supposed to eat carbs for energy in my workouts, but I just cant convince myself that its all used in my brief morning workouts! =\

Body for Life Forum Message by Mellie (677 posts) at 01:27 PM:
Honestly, I looked at your profile and your starting weight is only 109 and it does not seem that at 5'0" you should necessarily LOOSE weight, maybe put on muscle and lower fat if that is an issue...I didn't look at your BF%...guess I should have. But when you start out largely overweight the weight comes off much quicker...you are just itty bitty to begin with.

Body for Life Forum Message by Mellie (677 posts) at 01:29 PM:
Ok 22% what is your goal BF % 22% for 27 years old is actually in the "ideal" range. Much lower and you must be looking to do competitions or something

Body for Life Forum Message by SupaFreak (1026 posts) at 01:31 PM:
I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS, I LOVE CARBS!!!!!!

Body for Life Forum Message by Boise Lifer (18 posts) at 01:31 PM:
You are probably gaining muscle while you shed fat. The scale is a bad indicator of progress. But if you want to post your menu, we could take a look at it. Or pm me and I could give you some insight if you want, on your meal plan.

Body for Life Forum Message by Scattergold (51 posts) at 01:38 PM:
22% is ideal for my age? =\ I guess I really need to post my current pic so people can see what I'm trying to get rid of... namely my thunder thighs and belly! My sister is 9 years older than I am and weighs 98.. same height, same build.. and is by no means a waif... actually she has a bit of a belly herself, but dont tell her I said that! lol We are pretty small framed.... As for my meal plan... I keep it updated on this thread =) Trying my hardest to figure out how to add carbs... and not feel bad about it... still debating on whether or not to have rice with dinner tonight! http://www.bodyforlife-tracker.com/weight_loss_forums/viewthread.cfm?f=1&t=13662 Boise- I'm hoping you're right about the shed fat/gain muscle thing.. I'm hoping to dig up a tape measurer tonight to take some measurements...

Body for Life Forum Message by Mellie (677 posts) at 01:42 PM:
Well the chart says its ideal I think its a bit off myself, I am currently at 21.5% and in the ideal range, but don't agree, I think I should be at around 18%...it is totally how you feel and what you see. Honestly I am with ya on the carb thing, I try to have very little carb and will only do whole wheat pasta or brown rice and only 1/2 cup.

Body for Life Forum Message by reneakleinisakson (433 posts) at 01:47 PM:
I have found that getting more of my carbs from fruits and veggies rather than starch is key for me. Obviously that is not true for everyone, but it's a thought.

Body for Life Forum Message by h4x0r (3 posts) at 02:13 PM:
What I've been doing is not eating carbs at night, they are only stored all night long and it converts into fat, or if you will intake carbs I would do it like Reneakleinisakson get it from fruits and veggies instead of starch

Body for Life Forum Message by Joe (134 posts) at 02:44 PM:
Hi Scatteredgold, 1) Carbs are good!!!!!! But like anything else it all really depends on what your eating. You MUST eat the good carbs, fruit, Veggies, Oatmeal, Brown Rice, Pasta (Yup I said it Pasta), potatos (Bakers and Sweet). Not French Fries, Potato chips, White Rice, Crackers, etc. Just check the "approved foods" list and make sure your portions are appropriate and you will be fine. Atkins and South Beach have posined our mind about Carbs... such a shame ... 2) Don't base your fitness level on SCALE WEIGHT. Scales are for fish! Seriuosly, the scale is one and only one tool to help you assess your over all fitness level. Your Body Composition (Lean Body Mass and % Bodyfat) is more than your scale weight. And at 109 lbs, and 5 ft.. well you can't be at a huge bf% unless you lean body mass is very very low. Please understand that you wieght to gain muscle, so eat, eat, eat, just make sure you eat the right things. I hope this helps.. Joe

Body for Life Forum Message by tcstone (778 posts) at 02:53 PM:
I think Joe just loves to say, SCALES ARE FOR FISH! ;)

Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (455 posts) at 02:57 PM:
I agree... we need carbs, and the right ones. You need to eat a balanced diet like 40/40/20 like the book suggests. I am also supposedly at my goal bf% but have fat here and there that I want to get rid of, and a lot of people say I am obbsessive about it, but it is extra fat so why not get rid of it? If you r in the same boat dont worry about what is normal for your age group so much as what you want to look like. I think we body for lifers have slightly different standards than the average weight charts. I would personally rather look like a fitness competitor, even if I never compete. :) BUT EAT YOUR CARBS!!!!! YOU NEED THE ENERGY FOR YOUR WORKOUTS!!!!!!!!!!!!

Body for Life Forum Message by Scattergold (51 posts) at 02:57 PM:
Thanks Joe... I actually had a bit of an epiphany while messing around with fitday just now... I added my meals for today and when my pie graph read 42/40/19... I was baffled that the carbs were so high when the only "carbs" I could see were the grape nuts and the low carb tortilla wrap... then it dawned on my how high in carbs brussel sprouts are! lol I guess part of my problem is I've only been seeing carbs as bread and potato products.. when thats not the case at all =) Oh and youre right about the very low lean body mass part... I have no muscle to speak of! O_O Well.. excluding the little bumps in my arms (biceps!? I have them!?) that have appeared suddenly in the past day or so! =)

Body for Life Forum Message by Joe (134 posts) at 04:36 PM:
LOL @ tcstone...

Body for Life Forum Message by RyanCTJ (50 posts) at 06:31 PM:
In all fairness, you have only been on the program for 1 week. You shouldn't expect miracles. You need to have faith in what you are doing and keep at it, the results will come. This program is proven to work. Just look at the before and after photos of all the champions (and that includes those on this tracker) who succeeded by eating carbs 6 times a day. You need to free your mind of anything you have learned previously about carbs being bad. Until you do you won't be able to give 100% to the program, and the negativity and guilt you have about eating carbs could jeopardise your program.

Body for Life Forum Message by Pixy (411 posts) at 06:42 PM:
If you started on the 11th it is to soon to tell. Give it time it will work.

Body for Life Forum Message by Go4steffie (826 posts) at 06:55 PM:
Scattergold? Are you a reformed Atkins dieter? Stef :-)

Thread: Do I dare ask this? (214 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by sunshinyday69 (7 posts) at 03:32 PM: Do I dare ask this?
We've probably all heard or read how improving your self-image by exercise and weight loss can also improve your sex life. Soooo...how about for you all? Have YOU noticed improvements in your sex life since you've started on BFL? Blushing, Kathy

Body for Life Forum Message by Mellie (677 posts) at 03:35 PM:
I love to talk about sex and am not shy so I will respond =) For me it has made me MUCH more comfortable and confident with my body and therefore more "free" with sex...which makes it better AND more FUN!

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 03:43 PM:
Yup even Bill says it the book that it will even improve your sex life. Yup BFL def. made life a bit better. I think esp once I started feeling good about myself and and all that energy too. I was not hiding in the dark and let's get this over with attitude. LMAO that could not have been fun.

Body for Life Forum Message by Can'tStopMe (532 posts) at 03:44 PM:
Yes, I find that I've been calling out my own name way more frequently.

Body for Life Forum Message by Agent 69 (579 posts) at 03:45 PM:
having progressivly gone from 202 lbs. down to my current weight (141) I can honestly say that your self image does improve a great deal, the better you feel about yourself the more evident it becomes especially to your significant other......if you feel more sexually vibrant YOU ARE more sexually vibrant

Body for Life Forum Message by She Bear (53 posts) at 03:49 PM:
It is definately awesome to hear your husband say - you are so little now! Went from 155 to 130. It is nice to have your name associated with the word little.

Body for Life Forum Message by J-P-S-524 (55 posts) at 03:50 PM:
LMAO@Can'tStopMe And ummm...yep! ~Tried To Amend My Carnivorous Habits~

Body for Life Forum Message by Mellie (677 posts) at 03:55 PM:
LMAO at Cantstopme too! Love IT!!!!!

Body for Life Forum Message by Pixy (411 posts) at 03:59 PM:
Every 30min. of sex can burn 150 cal. You have to love the calorie deficit :D

Body for Life Forum Message by Can'tStopMe (532 posts) at 04:04 PM:
30 minutes of sex??????? HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

Body for Life Forum Message by tonee (183 posts) at 04:19 PM:
As everyone has said, you are more free because you're not trying to hide. You feel more cofident so you act more cofident. And my hubby likes the fact that he can "move" me as he calls it. He couldn't lift me before. Now he can actually pick me up in his arms. It's wonderful being swept off your feet.

Body for Life Forum Message by Kerry (1096 posts) at 05:34 PM:
Can't stop Me..... you're Killin' Me! Bwwwwaaaahhhhhaaaahhhaaaaaa :) Kerry

Body for Life Forum Message by sixpack (32 posts) at 05:40 PM:
I am going to add it as an extra cardio

Body for Life Forum Message by Nicabod (114 posts) at 05:42 PM:
She Bear--unless you're a He Bear!!

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 05:47 PM:
Wonder how this would look on the elliptical trainer?

Body for Life Forum Message by GlennH (75 posts) at 06:27 PM:
Let's see 10hrs@300 per hour=3000 calories a day! :)

Body for Life Forum Message by kitwhit (32 posts) at 06:48 PM:
My (younger!) boyfriend lives 7000 miles away, in Japan, so I have not yet had the chance to try this out but I will say the only reason I started a fitness regime was because he loves me so much he was willing to accept me no matter what I looked like naked. And I am not even rich! He is tall and thin and jogs 4 times a week. When I left Japan I vowed to myself that the next time I see him I will have a healthy fit body that more closely matches how I feel inside. I still have 35 pounds and plenty of % of bodyfat to lose but I already feel sexier and every day I go to wickedweasel.com and picture myself in a teeny tiny bikini on a beach with my sweetie! I have a lot of fun telling him about my progress and he is my greatest supporter.

Thread: I had the Honor Of Visiting Julie Whitt's Grave this weekend (60 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by GET*HER*DONE (3002 posts) at 04:44 PM: I had the Honor Of Visiting Julie Whitt's Grave this weekend
I mentioed this on another Thread but I didn't think everyone saw it so I thought I would share it with you on a personal thread.
It was Friday the 13thof January, the same weekend of the EXpo in Denver. We had arranged to visit my oldest daughter Robin ,son-in-law Steve and grandkids, Katy and Stevie in Richmond, Virginia

We passed Marion on the way there. I wasn't sure where the cematery or Church was but I knew it was Bradley's Funeral Home so we went there. They were extremely nice and said Julie was actually in Chihowie a few miles from Marion
They gave us directions and we went to visit Julie's grave.

It was an experience that touched me and I'll carry close to my heart. I never met Julie in person, but thru pm's on Tracker and e-mails and 2 phone calls I felt that I knew her well. We had many things in common and we shared alot together in just the short time that I knew her. We talked about our scars on our stomach. Julie's from her feeding tube and mine from a feeding tube as a baby, as I was born with an esphogus.
When I arrived at the grave side it was a beautiful day, sunny and calm, I stooped down and talked to Julie for a few minutes. I told her how A website was created in her hornor and how thousands of people were dedicating their Body for Life Challenge in her honor as well. I touched the grass and said Julie, we will all CARRY the TORCH for you, just like you wanted. Suddenly the wind picked up and blew pretty hard. It was indeed, as Stephanie Workman said, Julie's way of answering me that she knew, was happy I was there and saying look, I am breathing a breathe of Heaven.

I feel very blessed to have had the chance to visit Julie's grave, I would have called Matt, but I was afraid of upsetting him, he is so emotional and fragile right now. I did call his sister Amy, but didn't get an answer.

posted by GET* HER* DONE LINDA @ 1:42 PM 

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 04:50 PM:
Wow thanks for sharing Linda. Beautiful!

Body for Life Forum Message by nico (187 posts) at 05:21 PM:
Your getting my self into emotion Linda.

Body for Life Forum Message by Kerry (1096 posts) at 05:31 PM:
Linda, Beautiful Yours in Health, Kerry

Body for Life Forum Message by ~Lala~ (767 posts) at 05:46 PM:
Thanks for sharing Linda.. so appropriate with the "video just released.. one more bit to remind us to "do it for Julie!" Hugs Lala*

Thread: completely screwed up or salvagable?? (78 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Kajole (15 posts) at 04:52 PM: completely screwed up or salvagable??
Ok just had the worst day..miserable from the time I woke up (at 2 am!) and continued with one disaster after another. I only got in two small meals (a advantedge carb lite shake and cottage cheese and an apple) and it was getting to dinner time and i was starved. Kids wanted pizza and hubby is out of town..house is a wreck, you know the drill..so i ordered them a regular pizza and i got myself a fit and delicious from pizza hut. One of those thin crust, half the cheese with chicken, onions, tomato and jalepenos on it. I ate two peices and im wondering, how bad that is? I would really rather not have this be my free day cuz me and hubby like to have a big breakfast together saturday morning for our free meal :( Extra 20 minutes of cardio?? What would you do?

Body for Life Forum Message by Roe (47 posts) at 04:56 PM:
Run?? Why, you way under your calorie intake.... Did i miss something. I wish i can screw up like that on my "not" cheat day. I would ahve went forthe real pizza and ordered breadsticks....!! Your good, enjoy your free day tomorrow! Roe

Body for Life Forum Message by amkazen (315 posts) at 05:03 PM:
What is a fit & delicious? Never heard of it.

As I always say, move on forward, don't look back.  And, you did not over eat so it is ok!!

Body for Life Forum Message by sixpack (32 posts) at 05:07 PM:
You have got to be kinding you need to get some more calories in and drink some water so your body does not think it is starving. Great job order the good pizza. I am with Roe exept I would have had a 2 liter and extra cheese. Rock On Kajole

Body for Life Forum Message by Kajole (15 posts) at 05:14 PM:
HAHA Believe me i did SNIFF the kids pizza several times..if there were calories in pizza fumes i would be in trouble!! I think I was worried about all the fat in the cheese and not choosing an authorized food and I ate two peices but they were the biggest peices there LOL. I think the fit and delicious has 4 grms of fat per serving but 3 of those are saturated fat and a serving is one peice..YEA RIGHT who eats one peice of pizza??? thanks!! I feel much better!! Off to have a big bowl of ice cream and a six pack... JUST KIDDING! :)

Body for Life Forum Message by Rie (478 posts) at 10:43 PM:
Im bumping this to see if we can get some "old timers" ( Ie. experienced) BFL ers opinions- I called our pizza hut and they dont have it yet- but made a pizza with half a thin crust rerolled, half cheese, half sauce, and half toppings- I had a piece and it was great-really lite.

Thread: People its not physical it is all mental and the placebo study is here to proove it!! (95 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Roe (47 posts) at 04:53 PM: People its not physical it is all mental and the placebo study is here to proove it!!
NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF THE PLACEBO EFFECT!!!! ok! Thsi will help us all in the bfl challenge. A recent study was conducted called "a new spin on the placebo effect" Associated Press it just prooved(well you know) that pysiologically our minds are stronger than our abilities!! They have been trying to be sucessful at this effect for a long time!! It true.... We must over power our minds, we can do this. all we have to do is believe what we want hard enough and we can make it happen. I am sure you have heard all this befire, but the proof is inthe study to be accurately correct!! So when you are running on the treadmill about to die and just cannot go anylonger, tell yourself, Physical is nothing, all power and strength is in the mind, so keep going...DONT YOU SEE PEOPLE>>> THIS IS BIG< HUGE!!!! ok, I know Ima psych major, but pretty interesting stuff, jsut go read the article ROe :) keep smilin'

Body for Life Forum Message by cookie1135 (1416 posts) at 05:02 PM:
Thanks for the Great post Roe!!! If you can believe you, you can achieve it!!!! Hugs, Sylvia aka Cookie1135

Body for Life Forum Message by sixpack (32 posts) at 05:12 PM:
Where is the article at. I am interested. I use a technique when running and feeling the strain is to close my eyes and it is like I can better feel where my body is actually at and then I can continue. Da ve

Body for Life Forum Message by sarahatieno (1 posts) at 05:39 PM:
Where's the article located?

Body for Life Forum Message by GET*HER*DONE (3002 posts) at 07:30 PM:
that's why Bill Phillips said it's a mindset and you have to think positive

Thread: BFL - How do you do it if you have sciatica? (27 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Everythingirl1 (2 posts) at 05:10 PM: BFL - How do you do it if you have sciatica?
I did BFL for the first time in 2003 and it was totally amazing. In Feb 2004, I moved some heavy furniture and went for a 45 minute run. The next day I could barely walk because of intense pain in every joint and muscle. After several tests for everything from lyme disease to rheumatoid arthritis, I was told to lay off exercise and just rest for a while- I was told I was overdoing it. All the pain subsided except for a sharp pain running down my right leg. Now, 2 years and many doctors later, I have been diagnosed with piriformis syndrome which is sciatica caused by a muscle spasm instead of by a spinal disc. I have done physical therapy and been to a chiropractor but nothing works. I now do light upper body weights, swim occasionally and some yoga. But, I have not been able to run or do lower body weights in 2 years because of the pain. Dead lifts are especially bad for sciatica!!!!! I want to do BFL again because in some ways, I truly believe that exercising like that again may resolve the muscle spasm- although almost every healthcare practitioner has told me to stay away from exercise. But, in some ways, I can't believe that just sitting on a couch and gettign fat is going to alleviate my sciatica problem if I've had it for 2 years straight!!! So, does anyone have any advice for a) piriformis problems and b) doign BFL while having sciatica. Thanks!!!

Body for Life Forum Message by ~Lala~ (767 posts) at 05:42 PM:
Hope you find someone who can answer.. I have off & on problems with sciatica.. but I know that it has to do with my hips & sitting improperly at this damn computer for too long :( So I can do something about it... but what you describe .. I'm not sure off the top of my head .. I'll ask at work ( I'm a nurse, so hopefully there's some good resourses I can ask..) & see if anyone else has any ideas.. till then do what you can ( upper body , swimming etc...) & keep the eating clean.. remember people who are in wheelchairs have done this hon! :) that's my best advise! Hugs Lala*

Body for Life Forum Message by TNT's-MOM (369 posts) at 06:19 PM:
Oh dear...get rid of anyone that says no exercise...exercise helps build muscle that supports your spine without muscle you will have worse problems your poor spine will have to carry the weight!! I have cronic back pain, I broke my back and tailbone tore 2 disc's and have a facet joint and sacriliac joint issues with alot of pain when they decide to get mad at me..yes sometimes I have to back off and sometimes I have to get injections but my pain management doctor is all for me exercising to the max..meaning hitting it hard (within reason that is he does not want me lifting heavy weights darn it) when things get so bad I am miserable then he fixes what ever is wrong (usally injections short term pain meds) and I go back to exercising..heck he was so proud of me when I told him I ran a 10 min mile and he laughed with me when I told him it about killed me ! I also have a spinal cord stimulator for pain management. I would highly suggest you find a pain management doctor one that understands what your goals are they can hook you up with PT that will show you how to ammend the exercises and a good pain managment practicioner will be able to manage your pain when you mess up and you will do somehthing from time to time, mine is great he gets me back to the gym when I mess up and hurt myself, he is my biggest cheeleader I am one of his star patients because I refuse to be a back injury cripple !! Good Luck but my best advice is to get a GOOD pain management team either a Dr, Physical Therapist, that will get you back to the gym and keep you pain free so you can meet your goals...Make it very clear that NOT EXERCISING is not an option. BTW my DR said most Pilates Exercises are the best thing for back problems they are very controlled slow and protect your back. Windsor Pilates dvd's also have ammended versions of their exercises for bad backs. hugs TNT's MOM

Body for Life Forum Message by tinkerbell (340 posts) at 06:29 PM:
I've had a similar problem which started in December. The Dr. said it was a bulging disc pressing on the sacral nerve. It didn't make much sense to me at the time but then I did some research and it feels more like Piriformis Syndrome. I haven't been to another Dr. hoping this will go away with rest and Naproxen. In the meantime, I can't run, but I can do the elliptical without pain. It stinks because I have a treadmill at home, but can't use it so I have to go the gym 6 times a week. The elliptical is not the same as running, but it's better than nothing. As you probably know, Piriformis Syndrome is not likely to go away, so we just have to do what we can. This means extra clean eating and not missing workouts. I have also experienced sciatic flare ups, like right in the middle of a deadlift, I froze up and had to waddle over to the weight rack stuck at a 90 degree angle. The best thing for this is just doing things that aren't likely to bother it. So, now I have differnt form on the deadlifts (light weight, bent knees, going no further than the ankle) or I use the leg curl machine. I have more info on the deadlifts if you want it, let me know. Good luck to you!!!

Thread: I just pulled a "George Kostanza" (55 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by ~Lala~ (767 posts) at 05:33 PM:
Oh dear !! ooops ya gotta love what we try to do .. that doesn't quite work eh?! next time bury it in the Freezer!!! then you can't get it! top of the garbage pile is too easy a "rescue"~ LOL!

Thread: Don't know what it was about tonight (83 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by kitwhit (32 posts) at 07:41 PM: Don't know what it was about tonight
But I finally got brave enough to post the Jan 2 photos that I think look nothing like me. Perhaps a killer workout tonight? Maybe thinking about Julie? Maybe because I now have the faith to jump into the abyss with both eyes wide open? I hate it but somehow I just had to do it and now I'm posting so you can all look and be disgusted. But in another 9 1/2 weeks there will be a difference and this is what gets me up in the morning. These photos look nothing like how I feel inside me. In a few months I WILL reflect on the outside what I feel on the inside!!!

Body for Life Forum Message by justdoit (281 posts) at 07:46 PM:
I'm proud of you. This is the first step to the rest of your healthy life!!! Good Luck

Body for Life Forum Message by Kerry (1096 posts) at 08:07 PM:
Good for you! The pic posting definitely helped me with motivation and reinforcement. Success to You, Yours in Health, Kerry

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 08:09 PM:
Good for you it will motivate you more than ever!It's really fun to post the progress photo's and t drives you to complete all your workouts and work your program to the fullest.

Thread: Weekend Cocktails (25 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by h4x0r (3 posts) at 10:31 PM: Weekend Cocktails
Hello everyone, This is my first week on BFL after 3 failures. This time I have committed myself and today is my 3rd day and so far I’ve been doing wonderful. I’ve had tough good workouts and my eating habits have been better than ever. My problem is that this weekend (like every weekend) I will be hanging out with my friends in the local casino bar. I don’t know how to approach my friends introducing my new diet. I have decided not to fail this time. What do you guys recommend? Or does anyone have good low calorie drinks that wouldn’t affect my progress? Thanks ahead for your response.

Body for Life Forum Message by hogken (23 posts) at 10:34 PM:
I have done the same thing but, I quietly drank water. the first time they thought I wasnt feeling well.then the designated driver jokes came out and as time went they asked me about my program and now I hear WOW! what control you have I wish I could do that and the next thing you know you may find someone as excited about a change as you are. Thank you and good nighyt

Body for Life Forum Message by ocpanther65 (286 posts) at 10:35 PM:
Stay away from Alcohol. As much as I love beer it is really detrimental to BFL . Not only the calories but the alcohol has a negative effect on your hard work. If your serious this time around just give it up for 12 weeks.

Body for Life Forum Message by hogken (23 posts) at 10:35 PM:
except for free day!

Body for Life Forum Message by amylame (50 posts) at 11:10 PM:
I just got home from the casino. Normally, Id be eating taco bell and passing out. But I didnt drink tonight. Try it once. You'll be suprised how different the ride home and the morning after will feel. Just try it once. Give yourself that much. And dont say anything to your friends, just order diet coke. They'll never know. Try it once.

Body for LIFE: Body for LIFE Beginner

Thread: Free Day Confessions (571 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by J-P-S-524 (55 posts) at 03:43 PM:
Pizza Pizza Pizza!!!! ~Tried To Amend My Carnivorous Habits~

Body for Life Forum Message by tcstone (778 posts) at 03:50 PM:
I really hate this thread :) I can't NOT read it, but everytime I do I get all hungry! I guess reading about it is better than eating it! (on none free day)

Body for Life Forum Message by Lindyloo (43 posts) at 05:07 PM:
I have figured out how not to get my free-day food hang-over: Have sugary food in the morning, salty or fattening food at night, and drink lots of water. Since the BFL lifestyle has cut so much sugar (ALL) out of my diet, sugar acts like a stimulant in my body, and if I have it too late in the day, I can't sleep at night, or my sleep is not good - all of which contribute to the FOOD HANGOVER.... I think I have to plan out my free day as much as my BFL eating, otherwise I feel hung-over, bloated and like all my hard work and starving was for nothing! When I have cravings during the week, I start writing down what I'm going to have the next free day. I don't keep anything in the house, and I go out to eat or to the store on my free day, not before. The day before the free day, I am so hungry and resistance is down, so I have to be most careful that day. Next day bloat-I always get this if I have salty food. The only thing that helps me is: EATING RAW, yes RAW BROCCOLI...it cleases me and rids my body of the toxins from the day before, and woosh!!! all of the extra water too! Free day weight gain....I will not weigh myself after a free day. I only weigh myself at the end of the week, before my free day..in the morning before I have eaten or drink any water (And after going to the bathroom as much as possible...sorry) When other people started seeing that I had a "free-day" once a week, to eat whatever I wanted, some of these people behaved like I had some sort of eating disorder, and they started treating me that way, especially when I started to loose weight. Other people's opinion on this diet, I guess don't matter. My Last free day actually wasn't great. I had to work, and I had a little chocolate the day before when I shouldn't have, so I felt like I couldn't have a free day, but I had a little more chocolate. It's easier when I plan things out ahead of time, and I actually enjoy the taste of food a bit more. The food has a more intense and pleasurable sensation when I am more discplined. Matt, I believe? from the Biggest looser, actually had a free week during the show, for those that remember, and then when he got back on the diet, he lost an amazing amount of weight and ended up winning the whole thing! I believe in having whatever you want, and enjoying a free day. I don't believe in eating until I'm overly full and stuffing as much in me just because I'll be back on the routine the next day, and acting like this is my only chance to eat...that never worked for me. I love talking about this because I am not the only one who is learing and feeling this way; It's great to have this forum...thank you! I'll just learn more every day, and week. I'll just get better and better at figuring this out, and I'm so glad that I have Body for Life! It has brought health and fitness into my way of living, I am so grateful.

Thread: Newbie wanting to know about supplements... (166 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by lis72 (19 posts) at 09:13 PM:
Thanks everyone for your responses. I am feeling so much more knowledgeable now...and thank you to Ed for suggesting the Eating For Life book. I picked mine up on Friday...left town on Saturday. Read in on the way out of town...had to dine out for 3 days straight. And I didn't feel like I was blowing it. I actually knew what to order at each resturant. The book really helped clear things up for me along with all of your info. THANKS!!!!

Thread: Anyone else too embarassed to post "before" pics... (438 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by nico (187 posts) at 03:32 PM:
I was too embarassed to wear a bikini with my first pic challenge, but TODAY, I regret, I should have took that pic. Do thinks that will make you feel good. Maybe take it and don't show it right now or take it and post it. But please take one for your self what ever you'll decided to put it on your profile or not. Later you will be so happy

Body for Life Forum Message by J-P-S-524 (55 posts) at 03:38 PM:
Well my reason: I need a new cable for my digi camera. Once that is done, I'll be up there!

Body for Life Forum Message by Can'tStopMe (532 posts) at 04:03 PM:
Ever since coming to tracker I feel like a doctor. Since I've been here, I've seen people posting pics in their underwear, ill fitted bikinis, one nipple showing, g-strings, socks and sandles, I've seen more cellulite, more muscle, more mismatched underwear than one should see in a lifetime. NONE of it grossed me out more than the shot of my own ass in a before pic. The moral of my story is....No one really cares what your before shot looks like. We're all waiting for the after shot.

Body for Life Forum Message by nico (187 posts) at 04:44 PM:
So well said.

Body for Life Forum Message by kitwhit (32 posts) at 07:48 PM:
I just did it and will now be up all night freaking.

Body for Life Forum Message by lis72 (19 posts) at 10:02 PM:

Body for Life Forum Message by lis72 (19 posts) at 10:05 PM:
Thank you all for your words of encouragement...I am still working up the courage. I DID take the picture last week (on day 2) though. Am not sure how often I will be taking my picture...every two weeks maybe. ??? May work up the courage to post the before picture some time this week...stay tuned. And thanks again for letting me know that I am not the only not comfortable posting just yet.

Thread: Any ideas for breakfast bar recipes? (130 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by FrigidDigit (12 posts) at 12:15 AM:
Thanks Framed, some good ideas there. I'm going to try the pancakes, maybe my 3 year old daughter could be convinced to eat them too!

Body for Life Forum Message by ashtrash (428 posts) at 01:55 AM:
You'll need to pair the rice cake with a protein....natural PB is really more of a fat than a protein. just a thought...

Body for Life Forum Message by LOVE4KIDS (46 posts) at 06:28 AM:
I just bumped a recipe posted by cfingram for protein bars. they are really pretty good and great for on the go. Karyn

Body for Life Forum Message by FrigidDigit (12 posts) at 06:32 AM:
Good point ashtrash such a pity about the fat, I luuurve PB! Thanks for the recipe Karyn! Just what I was looking for.

Body for Life Forum Message by stepmorjo (88 posts) at 11:36 AM:
Here's one that is a staple, so easy and good (tastes like those peanut butter/chocolate candies) portion of cottage cheese 1 tablespoon of chocolate fudge pudding mix powder 4 tablespoons water 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter 1 portion of oatmeal Mix the cottage cheese, pudding mix, water, and peanut butter til blended. Then add oatmeal. Enjoy with lots of water! Stephanie

Body for Life Forum Message by FrigidDigit (12 posts) at 11:40 PM:
Hi Stephanie! Thanks going to try this one too. See you around. FD

Thread: How can I have hit a plateau after week 1? (150 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by blemt (179 posts) at 05:05 AM:
1200 is low. What's a daily meal plan looking like? As for measuring- if it causes you stress do not do any type of measuring the first 4 weeks. Scale, BF or otherwise. Do it ever 4 weeks. Bodyfat and tape measure are better overall indicators of movement. I do both weekly. You can get calipers that are easy to use from a company called Accumeasure.

Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (295 posts) at 12:00 PM:
IMO, its hard to tell if you've hit a plateau after just one week. If you stay the same for a couple/several weeks, then its safe to assume you've hit a plateau. Constantly change your workouts. This will help prevent plateaus. Be creative & train hard! xoxo karen

Thread: What can I do about someone so negative? (167 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by nico (187 posts) at 02:41 PM:
I know those people are bummer, just look at them with a nice smile and remeber inside of youthat MISERY LOVES COMPANY. Even today with my transformation, some people at the job are bugging me, telling me that when I will stop training, all my muscles will be looking like JELLO, and some of them call me an anorexic woman. And now the real big games toward my self if: WAIT to see how you will be looking when you will stop. Ah.Ah. People are so cute and funny sometimes. Keep your chin up and be proud of you.

Body for Life Forum Message by nola (65 posts) at 02:42 PM:
Kick 'em in the butt with your new muscles.

Thread: Cut Carbs in the 6th meal? (220 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Boise Lifer (18 posts) at 12:54 PM:
You can either go with just protein or protien and a fibrous type carb. I would stay away from any type of fruit, as that is mostly sugar. Cottage Cheese is the best pre-bedtime protein as it is a slow releasing protein, unlike whey protein powders. Cottage Cheese feeds protein to the muscles for hours while whey is absorbed by the body within an hour.

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 01:00 PM:
An apple is one of the lowest on GI index and is slow digesting so are strawberries. So not all fruits are created equal ;-)

Body for Life Forum Message by Boise Lifer (18 posts) at 01:11 PM:
Me personally, I would rather eat a fibrous carb which has a "negative" calorie factor, rather than a piece of fruit. No matter how low on the GI index apples are, they still are a natural form of sugar. =) When bodybuilders are in their cutting cycle, most will cut all fruit from their diets period. But like some others have said, do whatever works best for you. =) Now go hit those 10's!! =)

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 01:38 PM:
For me personally I don't have fruit late in the day I do have 1 apple a day. And the person who constructed my diet is a pro bodybuilder. Though I am not in my cutting cycle yet I am assured the apple will stay. But I am still in a fat burning cycle while building more muscle onto my physique. ;-) Though this person is probably not doing BBing and just trying to get in shape so I don't think and apple is going to have a bad result because they ate it in the last meal. Heck I don't even eat Dairy right now. But For someone doing BFL an apple with CC for the 6th meal is fine. Even EAS will tell a challenger that when you call them. Looks as if it worked for Tracy Jeffries too. That was her last meal of the day through her 1st challenge. ;-) My point here is that for someone doing a challenge and wanting to get in shape should not concern themselves with a GI index or an extreme cutting phase. If they choose to just do a protein shake cool that is fine if they choose to do a carb/protein before bead I assure you that an apple is much better than a bowl of oatmeal or brown rice before beddy by time and would produce way more negative results than an apple. Unless you are carb loading but that is a whole other can of worms I do not plan on opening up here. And the whole casien thing oh yes I will go on about that. If you are in a fat burning mode and you want to get to the bottom of it you should get your protein from a whey source made with water. Unless you are a hard gainer. Then Casien is the way to go. If you want a great casien before bedtime meal egg whites without the effect that dairy has and this can be consumed by any body type. Dairy converts to sugars as well. Bottom line this is not rocket science. I once tried to make it rocket science. After my first challenge it led me down an up and down road. In the process I learned a lot. I have carb cycled, cut carbs, you name the tweak of a diet I did it. Now I am learning more from actual pro's. The bottom line is everyone is very different here. And the nitty gritty of things is to know the facts and to know that if you follow them you will have results. If you start getting in to the nitty gritty of it it becomes frustrating and you can get a little discouraged or get results from it then realize that carb cutting will depleat water and give your more muscle appearance when all it is water being drawn out of the cells. Now I am just throwing way to much information and probably gone a little into to much depth about it. I tend to get carried away with the nutrition aspect of it. What I am saying in short don't be scared of the apple.

Body for Life Forum Message by J-Dub (262 posts) at 01:50 PM:
There are far too many arguments around here about the "dangers" of fruit lately. Fruit is fine. An apple before bed is fine. Unless you are at the point where you need to lose that last teeny little bit of body fat for a competition, the GI index really isn't going to make that much of a difference. Choose a carb from EFL and eat it. My eyes are getting skinnier from all the rolling I'm doing with them. :D

Body for Life Forum Message by Larry (163 posts) at 01:50 PM:

SuzyQ,

That's an excellent question, and TNT makes many good points. Whenever someone gives you advice, consider what perspective they may be approaching it from.

Keep in mind that the goals of an already fit, and near competition-ready body builder are far different from those of a person who wants to slim down, tone up and build some muscle.

It's not just a matter of what works best, but what works best to achieve a particular goal, as well as what works best for different bodies at different fitness levels.

Also, the techniques that a body builder uses to get shredded for a competition are -- admittedly -- far from healthy. Just ask them any trainer about it. They are training for cosmetic effect and looks, for 3 minutes on stage. That's a far cry from what we need on a daily basis.

Keep this in mind too. The body requires a certain amount of sugar, as that found in an apple, because it is part of the biochemical transport system that shuttles nutrients into our tissues, allowing for repair and growth.

I side with those who opt for a "balanced meal" of protein and complex carbohydrate, as with the low fat cottage cheese and the apple. Both digest slowly and provide a good ratio of protein to carbs to fats. It's a sound choice.

Ultimately, it's up to you to make an informed decision. May you meet and exceed your goals.

Believe -- Achieve -- Inspire

Body for Life Forum Message by TaraC29 (135 posts) at 01:59 PM:
Gosh TNT...great info! So, if you're not eating dairy and you're not eating fruit (besides your apple a day) then what DO you eat? I think I would be lost without my cottage cheese!

Body for Life Forum Message by Boise Lifer (18 posts) at 02:08 PM:
I guess I was just trying to answer the original poster the best I could. Wasn't meant to offend anybody. I will refrain from giving out such detailed "advice" in the future.

Body for Life Forum Message by nico (187 posts) at 02:10 PM: Re: Cut Carbs in the 6th meal?
SuzyQ said: Quick question: Should a female cut the carb portion for the 6th meal and just go with protein? I've been following the diet to a "T" but have seen other posts where people are just consuming protein for their 6th meal. Please advise and thanks!!!

Body for Life Forum Message by nico (187 posts) at 02:17 PM: Re: Cut Carbs in the 6th meal?
SuzyQ said: Quick question: Should a female cut the carb portion for the 6th meal and just go with protein? I've been following the diet to a "T" but have seen other posts where people are just consuming protein for their 6th meal. Please advise and thanks!!! A little piece of fruit with a low GI will not hinder your progres. My self I did oftently consume cottage cheese mix with a piece a fruit. But almost all my last meals were oftenly cottage cheese + 1 tsp of Natural Peanut butter. But I don't consider both of those 2 ideas will not hinder your progress. When it comes to competion close, this is another story and people will stick with protein and casein from the cottage cheese and stick with veggies only. As tom said, the whey protein before bed time usely last 1 hour while the casein from the cottage cheese will last around 3 hours. So mixing both of them is a nice idea before going in a little coma for 8 hours (lol) So I wouldn't really worry about those little low GI piece of fruits.

Body for Life Forum Message by Boise Lifer (18 posts) at 02:37 PM:
"Also, the techniques that a body builder uses to get shredded for a competition are -- admittedly -- far from healthy. Just ask them any trainer about it. They are training for cosmetic effect and looks, for 3 minutes on stage. That's a far cry from what we need on a daily basis." Thanks for eloquently pointing this out Larry. I sometimes forget that bodybuilders aren't necessarily following the most healthy diets. Not to mention they don't and would not want to follow their cutting stage all year around. It is just too hard and bottom line, not the healthiest. Again, sorry if I was getting nitpicky about things, an apple is a fine alternative with your CC.

Body for Life Forum Message by Larry (163 posts) at 02:57 PM:
Boise Lifer, It's plain to see we are all on the same track here. No worries, mate!

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 03:06 PM:
That Larry! You do know just how to word things ;-) No worries here either. All is good. Sorry if my response came off a bit strong.

Body for Life Forum Message by Boise Lifer (18 posts) at 03:14 PM:
You and me both. Email/Forums are such a dry form of communication. To your credit, I will say this...if I get half the results you have I will be a happy camper. You have done a fine job with your transformations so maybe I should just shut my trap. haa ha =)

Body for Life Forum Message by SuzyQ (30 posts) at 04:16 PM:
Thanks so much TNT, Larry and Boise Lifer. I just wanted to get some information about why people do that. I like my carb and night and just am slimming down/building muscle at this point. Not ready for "ripped"!! :) It's great to have some experts to call on!!

Thread: What is carb cycling? (121 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by fromfat2firm (39 posts) at 12:18 AM: What is carb cycling?
My friend and I both do BFL and are on tracker. She mentioned a lady who had awesome muscle definition in her profile pictures and she had written she did carb cycling. Can anyone tell us what this is and how well it works? Thanks for any help, Angel

Body for Life Forum Message by RyanCTJ (50 posts) at 09:36 AM:
I believe it is a way of reducing b/f through cycling your carb intake..i.e. you cycle high carb days, low carb days, and no carb days. It is usually used by bodybuilders to get leaner when their bodyfat is already very low. Others here will probably be able to give you more info on it, I think some have tried it out.

Body for Life Forum Message by shkelly (211 posts) at 10:50 AM:
Here is an article for you to read.....it will tell you all about it. http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/par30.htm Shelly =)

Body for Life Forum Message by fromfat2firm (39 posts) at 04:33 PM:
Thanks everyone for the info. I'm going right now to check out that article. Hugs, Angel

Body for Life Forum Message by sixpack (32 posts) at 05:03 PM:
that is one of the hardest articles to read. I think I burned extra carbs just reading the white on black lettering and then mulling through all the wordiness. PHEEEEWWWWWW!

Thread: Seeing results already?? (98 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Scattergold (51 posts) at 08:17 AM: Seeing results already??
I am on day 7 today... I've done UBWO twice now, and I swear I see some little lumps on my arms (biceps!?!?) that have never been there before.... I dunno if the muscles there are actually growing already, or if maybe I've lost a little weight on my arms and can see more than I could before... but seriously... I've *never* had muscles on my arms before... chicken arms I tell you, my boyfriend even said something and insisted on feeling my "guns" ;-) lol But still... no weight loss on the scale =(

Body for Life Forum Message by J Parker (80 posts) at 08:25 AM:
That is awesome. Forget about the scale. Use how your clothes fit & measurements to gauge your progress. The scale lies.

Body for Life Forum Message by Flower (2298 posts) at 08:51 AM:
My arms carry no bodyfat at all and I definately have chicken arms. I remember noticing a difference in the first 2 weeks too! Yeah for plumping up chicken arms!

Body for Life Forum Message by nico (187 posts) at 02:20 PM:
This is wonderful. Don't worry about the scale

Body for Life Forum Message by Shauna (22 posts) at 02:31 PM:
It's funny how unimportant the scale has become in my life...prior to BFL I was on the thing daily and my mood was determined by the number. Shortly after starting the program, I noticed my clothes were loose and the scale hadn't really moved...come to find out I had gained muscle and lost fat and we all know muscle weighs more than fat! Keep it up; it really works!!! I promise...

Thread: Nutrition Info (75 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Amanda (5 posts) at 01:40 PM: Nutrition Info
I am still trying to learn all that I can, I haven't actually started the challenge yet. I will be out of town for work, so I wanted to wait until I return. Can somebody please tell me what the number of calories, carbs, protien, etc... I should have for each meal? I don't remember reading this in the book. Thanks!!

Body for Life Forum Message by Agent 69 (579 posts) at 01:58 PM:
for women it is suggested calories of 250 per meal (but, really it depends.....I know, that doesn't help). I haven't stuck to a strict caloric bar. However, you should have 40% protein, 40% carbs & 20% fat per day. I hope your using fitday.com to track your meals.....it's also a great way to track you exercise, etc. good luck!!! glad your here

Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (295 posts) at 02:10 PM:
i agree w/ agent. try fitday.com. you dont necessarily need to count calories, just portions. fit day will show you a pie graph thing that shows you your percentages of protein/carbs/fat. Great tool! good luck! karen

Body for Life Forum Message by nico (187 posts) at 02:28 PM:
I only start counting my calories when I was beginning my challenge 4 and have reach my goals without counting. For a first challenge, only cleaning our foods and learning to eat the right food is already a big challenge, I wouldn't really worry at first for getting into the maths numbers but if this is your choice for a start, fitday is a great one and calorie king as well is good. Good Luck with your choice

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 02:30 PM:
I completely agree with Nico.

Body for Life Forum Message by gbfan (370 posts) at 02:43 PM:
I third that... keep it simple... just as Bill outlines until you get to or close to your goals. Then you can get into more technical stuff.

Body for Life Forum Message by Amanda (5 posts) at 02:51 PM:
Thanks for the help! I just wasn't sure what to eat for some of my meals. I know about the approved food list, I guess I just needed so more advice on how to determine what I can eat. For example, I have heard that you can eat an apple & peanut butter, but how would I be able to determine I can eat that for myself? Sorry if this doesn't make any sense! :)

Body for Life Forum Message by SupaFreak (1026 posts) at 03:12 PM:
The BFL site also has a calculator that you enter your weight into. Then it breaks down how many grams of protein, carbs, and fat you should have daily based on your goals. It's under the exercise tools section.

Body for Life Forum Message by nico (187 posts) at 03:26 PM:
Amanda, put a special attention on when you eat fat. The combo of fat and carbs are not good match. Carbs throw protein into the muscles, and carbs will throw as well fat. Just make sure that when you carbs are higher your fat a really at the low end. Just keeping attention at this little fact will help

Thread: I finished Week 2 (90 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Kelownamom (10 posts) at 05:16 PM: I finished Week 2
Yesterday was day 14 for me. I already notice changes, and it's a real motivator. I have been sticking to the book perfectly I think and haven't missed a workout. The only thing is I still have a cup of coffee in the morning and one at about 3 pm. I'm having it right now!!!! Anybody ever wean themselves from coffee??? The first 4 days on the program, I went without, and had a lingering headache for all 4 days. Was it just in my mind maybe?? That's what my husband says!!!!!!!!!!!! Dawn

Body for Life Forum Message by nico (187 posts) at 05:26 PM:
Congrats for this great second ending weeks. You are not the first person who has had headache after quiting cafeine. It seem to be a normal reaction from the body. Great job and keep going on

Body for Life Forum Message by cookie1135 (1416 posts) at 05:36 PM:
Congratulations Dawn!!! You're doing a fantastic job!!! Keep up the great work!!!! By the way, I have had the caffeine headache from quitting diet sodas. Best wishes to you!!! Hugs, Sylvia aka Cookie1135

Body for Life Forum Message by Ellie911 (1 posts) at 05:45 PM:
Kelownamom how much did you lose in the first 14 days? Ellie911

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 06:16 PM:
GREAT JOB! keep it up! Yes those headaches are terrible. -T

Body for Life Forum Message by FitnessGal4Life (28 posts) at 06:22 PM:
Is one cup of coffee and one in the afternoon really a problem? I admit I'm not a big coffee drinker but generally have a cup of joe in the morning at work and I usually drink decaf at home...It's a stimulant but I don't think 1 or 2 cups a day is excessive. Make sure you get all your water in though so you stay hydrated. Your headaches could be from dehydration too. Way to finish 2 weeks! I printed off a copy of the 12 week program chart and with each workout I complete, I cross it off. I glued it to the front of my journal and it's motivating to keep marking all the squares off! Find it from the BFL website under "exercise" then "daily journals". It's the same chart as in the book. This way you'll know if you missed a workout or not!! Have a great evening, Lisa

Body for Life Forum Message by Kelownamom (10 posts) at 06:26 PM:
Ellie911, I lost an amazing 8 pounds!!!!! I will only weigh myself once a week, if that, but I was pretty amazed at the scale. I notice a big difference already in my clothes.

Body for Life Forum Message by RyanCTJ (50 posts) at 07:02 PM:
Don't fret, coffee isn't your enemy on this program (as long as it's not one of those mega-creamy crappucinos with sugar etc!) you drink enough water to counterbalance the effects of it. P.S. I do the whole crossing off the days thing too, very motivational idea! As I'm slightly obsessive compulsive I know I'd be annoyed with myself if I missed a session and couldn't cross it off on the chart :)

Body for Life Forum Message by bubblz7 (22 posts) at 07:45 PM:
Coffee is allowed on this program. I would die without my coffee. For every cup of coffee or soda (diet of course)you drink, be sure to drink an extra glass of water. I, too, am OCP in that I have that 84 day schedule and I mark off each day as I go. I don't know how many challenges I have completed, as I stopped counting after 2 years. But, I always made a copy and put it somewhere so I could see it. It's a great sense of accomplishment when you cross off that 84th day and know you have done your best. I can't wait for that feeling again in 10 1/2 weeks!! Suzanne

Body for Life Forum Message by michiganmike (264 posts) at 07:54 PM:
I don't know why anyone would quit or even cut down on coffee unless they were having high blood pressure or sleeplessness or something like that. Read this week's Time magazine article about the amazing benefits of caffeine. It is proven in study after study to be a great fat burner, and an increaser of stamina, strength and endurance in workouts. It is proven to focus and sharpen thinking and concentration powers, especially in those who have had less than 8 hours sleep. It's cheap, and it's safe. It is also the most widely used drug in the world. It's in coffee, tea, many sodas, hot chocolate, chocolate, and every fat burner under the sun. Caffeine, it's the quicker picker upper!

Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (455 posts) at 08:08 PM:
Coffee wont kill you- the cream and sugar will. I use lowfat international delights creamer. It makes the coffee sweet enough to not need sugar or half n half. At starbucks I get skim cafe au lait(just coffee and skim milk. Couldnt live without it.

Body for Life Forum Message by Kelownamom (10 posts) at 08:19 PM:
Thanks for all the replies!!!!! I don't know where I got the idea I couldn't have coffee on this, but after day 4 I gave in and that's when I noticed one of the sample eating days and there it was, "a cup of coffee", I was so excited that I circled it and put it in front of the coffee pot the next day so my husband wouldn't think I was cheating!!!!!! I think since coffee wasn't mentioned in the Body-for-Life book, is what made me think it wasn't allowed, but I found this sample day in the challenge kit. Anyways, at least I drink it black!!!!!! Dawn.

Thread: Please tell me it gets better (87 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by fitnesscrazedmom (49 posts) at 06:41 PM: Please tell me it gets better
I am really getting frustrated living on the toilet!!!! My coworkers look at me like I'm nuts running to the bathroom every 1/2 hour. However, the worst part of this is (1) commuting and (2) middle of the night. I can't get from work to home without stopping two times!!!! WEll one stop is planned, to pick up my daughter from preschool, I run wiggling into the day care and pee, pee again before we leave and I end up wigglign my way into the house as I pull in the driveway. I am also getting up 2x a night and I used to never get up at night. My question is: Does your body eventually get used to all this water and your trips to the bathroom cut down?

Body for Life Forum Message by Pixy (411 posts) at 06:43 PM:
How much water are you drinking?

Body for Life Forum Message by fitnesscrazedmom (49 posts) at 06:44 PM:
I am aiming for a gallon. I have a 64oz bottle which I drink during the 8 hours at work and then try to drink another one at home but I stop around 9 or 10, so whatever I drank by then which is usually another 48oz give or take an ounce or two.

Body for Life Forum Message by Tai-Kee (2424 posts) at 06:56 PM:
I dont know - I've always had a bladder the size of a dime so wiggling around and going 100 times a day is normal here.

Body for Life Forum Message by supergirl (1666 posts) at 07:00 PM:
I find that it gets SLIGHTLY better after a few days but overall I go for the gallon too and pee a lot. Just par for the course I guess, sorry. If you can deal with it somehow it sure is great for your body to get that gallon in.

Body for Life Forum Message by kitwhit (32 posts) at 07:04 PM:
I can sympathize. I am going for 120 ozs a day. Friday there was a bad accident on the way home and my 35 minute commute took me almost 3 hours. All freeway - no place to stop. It was only sheer bitchiness that kept me from squatting in the driveway when I got home.

Body for Life Forum Message by fitnesscrazedmom (49 posts) at 07:06 PM:
Thanks, good to know I'm not the only one. I sure hope it gets slighly better. If I run into one of those accidents that turns my commute into 3 hours, I will be sure to have to change my pants when I get home!!!!

Body for Life Forum Message by J-Dub (262 posts) at 07:29 PM:
It gets better for me. Some nights I can make it through the whole night without getting up because I cut off my water consumption at 6-7pm. But a 3am waking isn't rare, lol. During the day, I usually have to go about once an hour these days.

Thread: Hiya from Texas! (62 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by funnyvalentine (1 posts) at 06:50 PM: Hiya from Texas!
Hi everyone. Today is Day 1 of Challenge 1 for me and I just wanted to say hi and that I am so glad that I found the tracker. This seems to be a really supportive community and I'm looking forward to participating and getting to know everyone. I have never been one to post on message boards - especially about something that's so personal to me - so even just being here is a huge step for me. I know that I have a lot of hard work ahead of me and I can use all the support I can get. I've had a great first day so far and am gearing up for Day 2 tomorrow. I know I can do this!!! : )

Body for Life Forum Message by wannabegreat (29 posts) at 07:01 PM:
Welcome I started on 1/2/06 and this site has been a great resource! Work hard and you will feel great! Going to watch American Idol now, WBG OUT.

Body for Life Forum Message by lis72 (19 posts) at 09:07 PM:
Hi Funnyvalentine...just wanted to say HI and Welcome right back at you. I am from TX too. Started BFL last week and have already lost two pounds! Can't wait to see even more results. Looking forward to sharing our BFL journey with each other. Everyone here is great!

Body for Life Forum Message by chantal2bfit (63 posts) at 09:43 PM:
Welcome!!!!

Thread: LBWO 10s were hit tonight!!!! (28 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by kitwhit (32 posts) at 07:23 PM: LBWO 10s were hit tonight!!!!
Y'all!!! After 2+ weeks of reading how people had rubbery legs and me doing the LBWO and not feeling anything I went to the gym tonight and pushed myself beyond anything I thought possible. I KNOW I hit my 10s at least a couple of times!!! I have no strength to walk. I drive a manual and got stuck in a bit of traffic on the way home and wasn't sure I would make it!!! I think I am now officially a BFL-er now!!!!! God I hurt but it feels so good.

Body for Life Forum Message by RyanCTJ (50 posts) at 07:33 PM:
LOL, I love that feeling. Maybe even more than when you can barely turn the steering wheel or change gears after a good UBWO :) I normally get the "shakes" in my legs for a few hours after an intense LBWO. Good effort though, at least you know you've trained intensely. And if you're anything like me, your legs are going to be in a whole lot more pain around 48 hours from now!

Body for Life Forum Message by SuzyQ (30 posts) at 10:10 PM:
LOL across town...I'm in Atlanta also! When I first did my "10" UBWO I kept thinking, how am I going to pick up my daughter when she needs me? It's great. Good Luck.

Thread: Hello All!! (67 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by VanessaDG (2 posts) at 07:58 PM: Hello All!!
I just wanted to say a big hello to everyone!! This is my first post here. I am on C1W1D3. I'm so happy to be here and can't wait to get to know everyone!

Body for Life Forum Message by bubblz7 (22 posts) at 08:06 PM:
HI Vanessa! Welcome to the rest of your life. You will be so happy you started this and by the 84th day, it will be a way of life. You'll feel and look great inside and out!! Suzanne

Body for Life Forum Message by Amanda (5 posts) at 08:06 PM:
Hi VanessaDG! I have not yet started b/c of traveling for work, but I am very excited to start. Jan 30th is the day! How have things been going for you so far?

Body for Life Forum Message by Kelownamom (10 posts) at 08:23 PM:
Hi Vanessa!! Good Luck to you, I am on Week 3 now and I found the first 3 or 4 days a little hard, but now already, as for the eating part, I have no real bad cravings, and yes, I think this will be my way of life now too!!!!!!!! Good Luck, Dawn.

Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (455 posts) at 08:27 PM:
Hey hey! Good to see another newbie! Good Luck on your challenge...

Body for Life Forum Message by VanessaDG (2 posts) at 09:24 PM:
Thanks for the warm welcome everyone!! Amanda, so far things are going great. I am not even really having any cravings! I do have to say though, after my HIIT yesterday and my LBWO today I'm wondering how on earth I'm gonna do another HIIT tomorrow as I'm SOOOOOORRRRRRREEEEEE!! I guess from all the reading that I've done that this is a GOOD THING though so I'll push through it! Good luck with starting, can't wait to cheer you on!!

Body for Life Forum Message by lis72 (19 posts) at 09:32 PM:
Welcome VanessaDG...I'm a newbie too. Today is day ten for me and I am already starting to feel a better me coming out. Good luck to you...

Thread: Can I give a little advice? (137 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by T~N~T (1221 posts) at 08:06 PM: Can I give a little advice?
This is just what this is advice. It's not the tell all or the I know it all none of that. It is what I have experienced and I hope it helps to the new BFL'ers. First of all I would like to say welcome and if you have made it through your 1st week that is awesome. The 1st week is one of the hardest. Trying to figure out the food & workout thing. 2nd guessing yourself on both. 2nd week it gets a little better but still 2nd guessing but eventually you will fall into a routine. That is what is supposed to happen. Then week 4 you will be feeling great and if your anything like me you will take that 4 week photo and go WTH I don't see any changes this is crap. I worked so hard for 4 weeks where are the changes? Don't be alarmed folks this is the 4 week freak out! If you started on the 2nd it is coming very soon. I am warning you. When this happens I want you to focus on how "GREAT you feel! How much healthier you are eating. Celebrate going to the gym for 4 weeks in a row! How many of us can say we did that before starting our 12 week journey? How much more conscious you are of what you put in your mouth. And how much of it. Focus on your energy, your positive energy! Focus on the inner changes. You really are changing from the inside to the outside. This is part 1 of your journey. Part 2 is the 8 week and part 3 is the 12 week and all those steps lead you on a wonderful journey. Enjoy them all! The 2nd thing I wanted to add is when you do BFL for the 1st time (may it be the 3,4,5th attempt) please don't go looking for other ways to tweak the program do it just as it is written. Don't try to make it difficult. The program was designed to specifically to help people get into the groove of a healthier life-syle and improve their health and bodies with an amazing transformation at the end of 12 weeks. When you start looking for alternative ways to tweak the program or reading to much into things like calories , GI index, and so forth your more than likely to become frustrated. Start thinking this is difficult and yes quitting can cross your mind. Becoming frustrated and sometimes consuming more info that will make you think your mind is going to explode. I am one for promoting knowledge and learning things and the how to's and why is this done this way? I think it is great to learn more. BFL seems to be the gateway to learning about the great wide world of working out and leaning down. Over all living a healthy life-style. So my advice is don't try to read to much into things. Don't try to tweak the BFL diet making it more complicated when starting out. Do your 12 weeks and if there are things you want to experiment with then study up on and try them out. Your eating better and working out for a better way of life not for a professional competition. Make it enjoyable and something you can live with. Who knows this journey might lead you down a more serious path. But you must learn to walk before you can run. The 12 weeks is hard enough to get through why on earth would you want to make it more complicated or harder? Just give it your absolute best for 12 weeks before you try to change things up. It's worked for millions, it worked for me, it will work for you! Sorry so long ;-) Work hard, workout even HARDER!

-T

Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (455 posts) at 08:19 PM:
She is SO right! It is so good to see so many new trackers.... looking forward to getting to know yinz all.

Body for Life Forum Message by Boise Lifer (18 posts) at 08:47 PM:
Great post T.

Body for Life Forum Message by J-Dub (262 posts) at 08:49 PM:
Teresa, I couldn't have said it better. Walk before you can run -- for many of us that is literal! Follow BFL to a "T" for 12 weeks and you WILL see success. And don't sweat the small stuff. Follow the book as written, Bill knows his stuff. ;o)

Body for Life Forum Message by RyanCTJ (50 posts) at 08:57 PM:
Great post!

Body for Life Forum Message by Kajole (15 posts) at 09:04 PM:
post is appreciated more than you know, thank you from a 3 weeker, I NEEDED that desperately!!! :)

Body for Life Forum Message by lis72 (19 posts) at 09:29 PM:
Thank you for this post. What awesome words of encouragement! I am only in my second week...and will probably be needing to hear this again in the furture. So, if you see me post and I seem to be getting down...KICK ME and get me back up again! :-) Thanks again. ~Melissa BTW...looked at your profile and your results validate your statements above. You go girl...you look awesome!

Body for Life Forum Message by bethkk (251 posts) at 09:32 PM:
And for those of you who aren't familiar with Teresa (can't imagine that's anyone here!! LOL!!), go to her website and read her blog. She is such an inspiration, and she deals with the ups and downs of life very honestly. This is a great post...for newbies and "not so newbies"!

Body for Life Forum Message by SuzyQ (30 posts) at 10:05 PM:
Thanks for all your encouragement, willingness to share and help us along!!! You're great and love your advise.

Body for Life Forum Message by scrappinmichelle (43 posts) at 10:16 PM:
Wow Teresa! From the month that I've been here, you always know how to lift people's spirits up!! Thanks so much!

Body for Life Forum Message by FatLady (4 posts) at 10:57 PM:
In my case it is CRAWL before you can walk. Thanks for all the information. I just finished my third day.

Thread: alcohol (37 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Amanda (5 posts) at 08:34 PM: alcohol
Can anyone give me some information about drinking. I have heard several comments, some do, some don't. I know it is obviously best not to, but I do like going out for a beer every now and then.... Should I work on completely cutting it out, or is it ok on my freeday??

Body for Life Forum Message by Kelownamom (10 posts) at 08:41 PM:
Hi Amanda, I definetly don't have the answer for you, but I will tell you that I love my beer, and I did have a few (6) woops, on my last free day. I just won't make that a habit!!!! Good Luck, I'm sure you'll get more input on this.

Body for Life Forum Message by RyanCTJ (50 posts) at 08:54 PM:
The occasional glass of wine with a meal is OK according to the book, but anything else I'd suggest leaving until your free day.

Thread: anybody "backed up" (86 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by Kelownamom (10 posts) at 09:05 PM: anybody "backed up"
Does anyone find that they are not as "regular". Not to be descriptive or anything, but what was once daily is now every 3 to 4 days. That is not good!!!!!!! Any advice? Dawn

Body for Life Forum Message by fitnesscrazedmom (49 posts) at 09:12 PM:
I am actaully having the opposite, going more than that "once a day". Are you drinking enough water? Getting enough fiber?

Body for Life Forum Message by Kelownamom (10 posts) at 09:15 PM:
I really am drinking alot of water. As for fibre, I think so, but I may try Metamucil or something. Maybe add a little to my shakes daily.

Body for Life Forum Message by fitnesscrazedmom (49 posts) at 09:16 PM:
Yeah, I make sure I have veggies with every meal just to keep the fiber up besides making me more full. Maybe your body is just adjusting and it will regulate again

Body for Life Forum Message by Godsdaughter (6 posts) at 09:22 PM:
Hey Kelownamom What a coincidience, I live in Kelowna too! I work with a lot of clients that experience this problem and a few of my suggestions are pretty basic; Eat fiber rich foods, lots of greens, fiber 1, rasberries are wonderful, also, here in the Natures fare in the strip mall they have "soy pasta" It is fantastic as a carb portion for your meals because it is not like typical pasta that is loaded w. carbs, little fiber, no protien, this amazing pasta has about 20g protien, 10g fiber and about 20g of carbs! Also, you can get "carb counting" wraps from the super store that are very high in fiber and protien as well. Are you taking an EFA supplement? If so, you can bump up the dosage for a few days: ie. from 4 to 6 capsules per day. Drink with lots and lots of water. Still a problem? "natures reply tea"

Body for Life Forum Message by Godsdaughter (6 posts) at 09:23 PM:
Metamucil is not a great idea...... it would be like the carb portion of your meal..... hmmm..... metamucil and chicken, YUCK!

Body for Life Forum Message by bubblz7 (22 posts) at 09:27 PM:
Sugar Free Metamucil --5 g carbs (all Fiber)

Body for Life Forum Message by Kelownamom (10 posts) at 09:28 PM:
I wouldn't have even of thought of that. Thank you. What do you mean by EFA supplement? I know exactly the store, and I have written that down. Thanks again. Dawn. PS I'm in Rutland - you?

Body for Life Forum Message by Godsdaughter (6 posts) at 09:30 PM:
Ha! Rutland too! EFA is Essential Fatty Acids which have a slough of helth benefits and aiding in regularity is just one of the many

Body for Life Forum Message by Forest Tech (133 posts) at 09:36 PM:
Try milled flax seed. It provides your EFAs and keeps everything working top notch on the inside. I had the same problem until I incorperated flax with my cereal in the morning.

Body for Life Forum Message by crazyblonde78 (295 posts) at 10:13 PM:
Gosh I HAVE this problem! I might go once during the week until free day! Then I'm 3 x that day!!

Thread: I don't like cottage cheese...suggestions (9 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by lis72 (19 posts) at 10:22 PM: I don't like cottage cheese...suggestions
I tried cottage cheese again last week and just don't like the stuff. I know a lot of people (and the BFL/EFL books) recommend this with fruit or other food items as midmeals. Can all of you give me some other suggestions? I have been eating a lot of the BFL bars and started drinking the shakes, but I don't want to get burned out on any one food. I want to succeed at this! Would love to hear other things you eat...

Body for LIFE: Body-for-Life Debate

Thread: Why Are So Many People Against the Scale??? (132 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by amkazen (315 posts) at 12:19 PM: Why Are So Many People Against the Scale???

I see this a lot in post.  Throw the scale out, don't use it, it is inches that count, etc., etc.  Why is this????  The scale is not an enemy.  It is a tool, a single tool, a piece of equipment to use with other tools in our quest for better bodies.  We do not all have calipers to pinch ourselves and to measure body fat.  We all do not have people to measure our body fat weekly.  The scale is one piece of equipment to use and consider.  I use mine daily.  I use my pants as a piece of equipment also.  If my pants feel tighter, I know I am gaining weight. For my challenge #2 that just ended, I set a goal of getting below 170 pounds and being at 11 - 12 % body fat.  Well, I hit 170.2 pounds and 12.4%.  The scale was my friend as I used it daily to check my progress.  I had my bodyfat measured  three times: beginning, mid, and end of the challenge. I used my pants as a guide.  I needed reassurance thruout my challenge.  Without my pants and scale, I would have had no clue and would have gotten discouraged .  My scale weight "changed" twice: I fluctuated between 175 and 180 the first 2 months or so of the challenege and then I fluctauated between 170 and 175 the last few weeks. the scale helped keep me honest.  By me seeing I was not dropping the weight per the scale, I stayed really focused on hitting my 10's on the weights and cardio.  The scale is a piece of equipment, used to help keep you focused, not discourage you.  If you get discouraged by the scale reading, choose something else to go along with it, like pant size, or dress size.  Tell yourself to intensify your workouts.  Tell yourself while doing cardio "5 more minutes.  I'll show that scale!" Keep at it, week after week after week.  The scale will lose!  When I start my 3rd challenge later this month, my goal is below 160 pounds, 8 - 9 % body fat, and size 32 pants.  The scale will help me get there

Body for Life Forum Message by Kajole (15 posts) at 12:34 PM:
I think that is what people mean when they say throw away the scale and use inches. Meaning don't only look at your weight to measure how you are doing but also use how your clothes fit (aka measurements). I personally am not using my scale becuase the numbers were actually going up and I am working out hard and eating very carefully, but my meaurements are going down fast and my body fat is going down as well. People don't see numbers on your forhead.., so really scale numbers in the big picture don't matter much but your health, your body fat % are what are important. I know many people who weigh very little but are in horrible shape and very high body fat %. I don't put much stock in the scale #'s anymore :)

Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (455 posts) at 12:35 PM:
I agree! I think that while you shouldn't obsess about not losing, it is improtant to make sure you dont gain significant weight. I know some people think it's OK to gain but the truth is if you gained 5 lbs one week you can bet it isnt muscle. If that happens to me I want to know, and without the scale, /i DON"T know. I use it as a tool every day. I therefore know how my weight fluctuates between certain numbers. I use the lowest number that week as my final weight for the week. I recognise that if I just drank a ton of water my weight is gonna be up, so i dont worry about it. BUT, if I go a whole week without seeing my lowest # from the week before, then I worry that I am gaining weight or retaining water. For me I like to know what I weigh all the time. As long as it doesnt have a negative impact on the way you think or your workouts, its good to know. However, to each his own.... if i was a person who freaked out because my weight was up after a big meal or whatever, I would limit the scale use. For me it is a motivational tool and, as you said, it keeps me honest.

Body for Life Forum Message by jeremy (1104 posts) at 12:36 PM:
For me it is fine for many people it becomes an obsession and sometimes the scale can lie. It becomes the only measure of success and many people do not understand that the same person can be 180 with 25% body fat or 180 at 7% body fat.

Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (455 posts) at 12:40 PM:
Jeremy's right... I've been stuck at 144 forever. Its frustrating, but I know that if my measurements keep going down, I must be gaining muscle. Unfortunately they are not going down,so I know I have hit a plateau and have to figure out what to change to get off of it. Its good to know either way.

Body for Life Forum Message by Muscle Head (40 posts) at 12:41 PM:
I can understand your point, and respect it, but have to disagree with it. It's all about body composition, and yes, you have to weigh yourself to complete the equation. Points I have personally have made in the past have been about people obsessing over scale weight being the only or the primary tool in obtaining feedback for their program. I'll use myself as an example .... In 2003, when I began BFL, I weighed 220 and my bodyfat was 22%. That gave me a LBM (Lean Body Mass) of 171.6 lbs. My goal was to get under 200. I never made it. But I did cut my bodyfat to 13% that first challenge. This past Saturday almost 2 1/2 years later I weighed 227.5 at 15% bodyfat ... for an LBM of 193.4. So I'm 7.5 pounds heavier than when I started ..... who cares ? I'm not a wrestler or jockey trying to make weight .... My body has been completely transformed from couch potato status to muscular athelete. (albeit aging, lol) I do pay attention to the scale ... but only to make sure it is not decreasing at a rate where I am burning muscle ... and preferably , the scale weight is holding steady or going up, while the bodyfat % is coming down. A question for you amkazen ..... when you get to 8% bodyfat, and if you didn't lose a single pound of scale weight .... would you be disappointed ? My thoughts.

Body for Life Forum Message by jeremy (1104 posts) at 12:49 PM:
Muscle Head brings up a great point. Although he asks a question that unfortunatley many clients of mine would say yes. They just dont care about how they look as much as the scale going down. I DONT GET IT:(

Body for Life Forum Message by DreamCatcher (743 posts) at 12:59 PM:
I may be wrong here, but I think women are the ones that get hung up on the number on the scale. I am one of those too. I think for most women, they think back to their most comfortable size clothes they were in at one time, and remember approximately what weight they were at to be in that size. When others here advise to "ditch" the scale, they are not intending them to ignore it all the time, but to maybe take a break from the scale because they are overlooking the other areas that they are making progress in like BF% loss and inches. Yes, muscle weighs more than fat, but no...women don't like to see that number go up even if it means gaining muscle. It just in how we all think about it..and sometimes I do think it's necessary to stay away from the scale for a while if you're obsessing over the scale so much that you don't see all of the other wonderful things that are happening. Now...if I could only take my own advise....! Jennifer

Body for Life Forum Message by ashtrash (428 posts) at 01:01 PM:
I don’t believe the scale is inherently evil. It plays a role too, just like all the other methods of measurement. Many people are trying to lose fat, especially the ladies. Gain muscle, yes, but ultimately the goal is usually to lose fat. I think the scale can be a good gauge of progress (say, in 2 or 4 week intervals, just not everyday.) I know we are building muscle, so the scale can be deceptive of progress. But if you are a woman, the scale will need to be going in a downward direction. I think sometimes we make excuses like, "oh, well...i’m just building lots of muscle" when eventually the scale needs to moving down, especially if you are very overweight. For example, if after week 9 or 10 when progress usually really picks up in a woman’s challenge, and she isn’t losing any scale weight at all, I think the scale can be an effective gauge. It can force you to examine how you really are doing - am I really hitting my tens? are my portions under control? am I eating as clean as I can? are my freedays totally blowing it for me? No, I think the scale can be one of several effective ways to measure progress. It’s when we obsess about it and step on it everyday and cry if we gained 4/7th of a pound that it can become a problem. But the scale deinitely does have it’s place. (Oh, and I am aware of one of the champiions that has the same starting and ending weight. But he is male. I think the majority of woman have more fat to lose then muscle to build. But that is a generalization...) Not that this has ever happened before ... ;) but I could be wrong!!

Body for Life Forum Message by amkazen (315 posts) at 02:36 PM:
This is a good debate. I believe too many people are incorrectly relying solely on the scale to gauge their progress. If I got down to 8% body fat and did not lose a single pound, would I be disappointed? Hmmm....... Let me explain, as I have thought about this before, and had another question but had not posted it yet. At 8% and still in the low 170's, I better have some terrific muscle definition..abs, legs, calves, arms, etc. I better be ripped. The downside to being the same weight with a lower body fat is if I ever slowed my lifting & cardio my weight would surely start to increase. So, I could possibly be heavier at that point than I ever was, and all because of muscle under/over-lying the fat. This is why I really, really want to get down to as low a scale weight as healthily (?) possible. Therefore, if I gain weight I will still be at a low enough weight I will feel comfortable. I do not want to ever weigh 200 - 205 pounds again. So, if I was in the low 170's with 8% body fat I would probably not be comfortable and would be disappointed. Did I make any sense here?

Body for Life Forum Message by Reagiesmom (455 posts) at 02:48 PM:
Hmmm... that's interesting. I didn't think of it that way, amkazen... I do always say that if I ended up looking like....Cheryl Muir, for example.... but didn't lose weight, that I'd be SOOOOOO happy.... BUT then you're right.... if I gained weight from that point I'd be REALLY heavy. But you'd still have that muscle, and you'd therefore still have a higher metabolism. So it would be harder to oget "fat"... at least without totally messing up on the eating front and not working out..... I don't know, I know I would rather be muscular that low scale weight, but as a woman, I admit I do still care about what the scale says Also for whatever reason I have a hard time believeing that I could really build muscle like that. And I have heard so many women saying "I am gaining weight but its muscle" and it obviously isnt true but I bite my tongue and dont say anything(not talking about anyone on tracker) so I dont wanna put myself in that category. Bottom line for me is regardless of what I weigh, if my love handles and armpit fat go away, that's good enough for me LOL.

Body for Life Forum Message by tcstone (778 posts) at 02:57 PM:
Wow. Interesting. I personally hate the scale. Don't like the number I see. So I don't get on it often. At least I am trying not to this challenge. It discourages me. But I do like to keep tabs use it as a tool in the progress. Teresa

Body for Life Forum Message by gbfan (370 posts) at 03:09 PM:
I have weighed myself EVERY DAY for the past year and some. In December, i dediced to take a break and see how I would do psychologically. For me, the scale really doesn't have to do with what I weigh... it has to do with prompting me to make healthy choices for the day. If I see that scale move up one... I think to myself, choose wisely today, you don't want to gain fat weight. If I see the scale move down one day... I think to myself, choose wisely today, you are making progress. BUT, I use my scale only as a tool, like amkazen says. I use it to track my weekly weight, along with my tape measurer and body fat calculation. Together, I can see what progress I'm making. However, I have a workout partner that had an incredibly low LBM because she was cutting way back on calories before doing BFL. In her first challenge, she didn't see the scale budge and she got WAY upset! After the twelve weeks, we did her measurements and weight and figured out that she had GAINED 4 pounds of muscle and lost 5 pounds of fat. So, the scale was misleading. If she would've used the other tools, she would've seen the progress and not been so mad for 12 weeks.

Body for Life Forum Message by amkazen (315 posts) at 05:12 PM:
Was the scale misleading, or was she misreading the scale? I am starting to think that people are using the scale only in one way, to see how much fat they have lost, as is the traditional use of the scale, vs. using it as just a guide, and realizing they are truly gaining muscle. gbfan is using the scale as I do...choose your nutrition wisely that day. And as reagiesmom says, so many people automatically state they are gaining muscle when it is not. It is amazing how much my weight fluctuates daily, and from day to day. If I did not check it daily so I know what weight I am at normally I would not be able to say I am gaining muscle. A person does not gain muscle weight overnight. I think it is an incremental gain. I think answers to posts about weight and scales shoudl not be so extreme "don't use it" and the answer should state to use it as a guide, use it to see how their weight fluctuates, use to learn how their body weight does change day to day, month to month.

Body for LIFE: BFL Food & Recipe Reviews

Thread: "50 cent Homemade Protein Bar". (176 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by LOVE4KIDS (46 posts) at 06:19 AM:
bump

Thread: Hot Chocolate (Myoplex) (242 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by goingforbuff (1583 posts) at 11:08 AM:
I did it with a hand blender last night and it was OUTSTANDING! No glumps at all! I used 6 oz of water and 2 oz of milk (to up my carb and make it a complete meal with the carbs in my shake). Put the scoop of powder in (I use a whey protein powder - not Myoplex), blended, it even was frothy on the top! Excellent, excellent!!

Body for Life Forum Message by Go4steffie (826 posts) at 04:22 PM:
Yummy, just had some. I used a scoop of Optimum Nutrition 100% whey. I boiled the water first, added a shot of skim milk and put it in the magic bullet blender...then added the scoop of protein powder last....blasted it for about 15 seconds and VOILA...YUMMY HOT CHOCOLATE!!!! Now all it needs is a shot of Bailey's!!!! LOL

Body for Life Forum Message by goingforbuff (1583 posts) at 06:01 PM:
Stef, you tried it!!! Wasn't it good??? This is gonna get me through the winter!!! Now, if we could just figure out a way to make it bfl-legal with that shot of baileys...

Thread: 10 minute BFL meal ideas HERE (227 Views)

Body for Life Forum Message by SupaFreak (1026 posts) at 01:22 PM:
Here are my fave quick meals: 2 LF string Cheese sticks with an apple 4 Hard boiled eggs with oatmeal fresh Tuna salad-packet of tuna, 2 hb eggs, and FF mayo on rye bread

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