Weight and Junk Like That...

[Dragonfly]

Okay, when it gets down to it, I just am not happy with my size.
I've got this tummy that sticks waaaaay out, and I wouldn't mind that, except that it sticks out farther than my boobs. I'd really rather they stuck an inch or two further out.

I tried to do stuff specifically centered on abs (we sat on really, really big bouncy balls, that was fun) but I have arthritis in my neck, and the exercises ended up putting strain on it so that I got dizzy. I missed at least once day of work attempting to get over the dizziness caused by it.
So then I tried Pilates. I loved it, when she was doing the beginner level stuff. But then she cranked it up to the level of the rest of the class (I, the newbie, walked in to a class that had been going for 6 months) and I promptly got left behind. More issues with accidentally tweaking the neck.
I like going to the gym and running on the treadmill, but I honestly don't feel like I'm accomplishing anything when I do it. And lifting weights I get embarassed about because I go up and put my chicken arms on 15 lbs., then the next guy comes up, gives me a funny look, and puts it on 75. Which sucks, because I LIKE lifting weights!
I did yoga, loved it, felt it kept me unblocked and un-gooked physically and energetically but the gal who was teaching it retired and so far all I've come across were a bunch of space-cadets who stress the athletic portion of things and not the relaxation or stretching benefits of it. I even went to Tai-Chi with Foxglove, but I didn't feel like I connected with it very well, felt VERY blocked and very "heavy" when trying to do the movements.
I thought about martial arts, but I'm embarassed at the thought of being this huge chick in the midst of all these normal-sized people executing their katas without issue. Me? I've got a screwed up back from a car accident...I'm just thinking it would be more difficult for me than others and, well, I HATE looking stupid in public.
The thing that angers me the most is that when I left Seattle, I dropped 25 lbs and actually looked somewhat decent. But then I suddenly ballooned back up and it's been a total BITCH trying to get it to come back off again!
I noticed that happened after I went off birth control...does anybody know if weight gain happens after that? I'm thinking if that's the case, I might go back on it purely to lose those 25 lbs. again!
I weigh damn nigh 200 lbs. My goal is 140, the weight I was when I left for Seattle 8 years ago. I'm miserable. I hate looking in the mirror. I feel ugly 80% of the time.
Foxglove, you're not allowed to chew me out for this post. :x

[Mairi the Herbwench]

After a major illness this winter, I lost 20#. I want to exercise, but have a torn ligament in my ankle, and can't get it fixed for various reasons until March. I've fianlly gotten under 200# (OK, it was 199.6#, but it's under 200!) and the only thing I've done is to follow the "Ruth McKilligan Diet". It's very simple - eat anything you want, but take only 1 serving, and make it half the size. It works, it's sensible, and you don't feel deprived. My ideal body weight should be 120-140#, so I've got a ways to go, but I also recognize that it won't happen overnight and it won't be easy. I'm also starting some hypnotism for weight loss...

Don't stress over it, just take it day by day and keep looking for a yago instructor.

Good luck!

PS - Ruth McKilligan is my wonderful mother-in-law.

[Lady Sarah]

Okay, when it gets down to it, I just am not happy with my size.
I've got this tummy that sticks waaaaay out, and I wouldn't mind that, except that it sticks out farther than my boobs. I'd really rather they stuck an inch or two further out.

I tried to do stuff specifically centered on abs (we sat on really, really big bouncy balls, that was fun) but I have arthritis in my neck, and the exercises ended up putting strain on it so that I got dizzy. I missed at least once day of work attempting to get over the dizziness caused by it.

So then I tried Pilates. I loved it, when she was doing the beginner level stuff. But then she cranked it up to the level of the rest of the class (I, the newbie, walked in to a class that had been going for 6 months) and I promptly got left behind. More issues with accidentally tweaking the neck.

I like going to the gym and running on the treadmill, but I honestly don't feel like I'm accomplishing anything when I do it. And lifting weights I get embarassed about because I go up and put my chicken arms on 15 lbs., then the next guy comes up, gives me a funny look, and puts it on 75. Which sucks, because I LIKE lifting weights!

I did yoga, loved it, felt it kept me unblocked and un-gooked physically and energetically but the gal who was teaching it retired and so far all I've come across were a bunch of space-cadets who stress the athletic portion of things and not the relaxation or stretching benefits of it. I even went to Tai-Chi with Foxglove, but I didn't feel like I connected with it very well, felt VERY blocked and very "heavy" when trying to do the movements.

I thought about martial arts, but I'm embarassed at the thought of being this huge chick in the midst of all these normal-sized people executing their katas without issue. Me? I've got a screwed up back from a car accident...I'm just thinking it would be more difficult for me than others and, well, I HATE looking stupid in public.

The thing that angers me the most is that when I left Seattle, I dropped 25 lbs and actually looked somewhat decent. But then I suddenly ballooned back up and it's been a total BITCH trying to get it to come back off again! I noticed that happened after I went off birth control...does anybody know if weight gain happens after that? I'm thinking if that's the case, I might go back on it purely to lose those 25 lbs. again!

I weigh damn nigh 200 lbs. My goal is 140, the weight I was when I left for Seattle 8 years ago. I'm miserable. I hate looking in the mirror. I feel ugly 80% of the time.
Foxglove, you're not allowed to chew me out for this post. :x

first of all, you've got to get over your ugly duckling self image. (and this is the pot calling the kettle black here...)

I too hate looking like an idiot in public, but I do what's necessary to maintain the wonderfulness of me.

The issue with the weights at the gym and the guy giving you a look? stand up straight, sety our shoulders back into a regal pose, then ask him in all of your full wenchly glory for advice, tips, assistance, etc. Ask him how to properly lift so you get the most benefit.

Now, for martial arts... heh, being big doesn't mean you can't do it. The owner/instructor of the school where I take my kickboxing classes has got to be about 300 lbs. and he's as graceful as they come. all it takes is that mental attitude to keep going and learn. It's not about looking stupid. I know I look frickin' hilarious while practicing a sidekick, and more often then not, my fat jiggles when I do. BUT, my switchkicks and roundhouse kicks make up for that. Talk to the teacher/owner and see if there is a beginning class for adults. also ask about kickboxing classes if they offer them. don't go to your gym and take classes, it's not the same.

and, chances are that any of the martial arts schools local to you will know of a good yogi, not a bimbo twit teaching it so they can wear tight leggings and show off their buns of steel. the most important thing is to keep looking and not lose hope.

when you do settle on a class/activity/etc., talk with the instructor first, before ever lacing up your shoes, and tell them of your neck and back problems. If they are worth their salt, they'll work with you and modify the activities so that you still get the benefits but it's less stress on those tender parts.

Good Luck!
:grouphug:

[Ysobelle]

Helen, most of the problems youre listing aren't with the activities, which you say you like, but with the people teaching them or yourself. If you LIKE the activity, DO IT. That's the only way you're going to get to the shape you want: screwing your courage to the sticking point and DOING IT.

I despise the little jog I take nearly every day, but I just extended it a little bit last night. I look like an idiot, and I get back to my apartment wondering if I'm going to barf, but I still do it nearly every night. I just concentrate on the fact that it's getting easier to breathe while I'm doing it, so I know it's doing me some good. Look on the positive side of your increased activity and all the good it's doing your body, cos the negatives-- I can't, I look dumb, people are staring at me-- aren't true (and even if they are, well, so?), and are what's keeping you unhappy.

[Silverwind]

I would recomend what my wench did. Find a belly dance class. If is no-impact excersize that will not tear up your kness and you have fun doing it. You can also use what you learn at faire and make all of the nearby rogues' eyes bug out and tounges hang out and become your slaves. A terrible job, but someone has to do it.

[Dragonfly]

I would recomend what my wench did. Find a belly dance class. If is no-impact excersize that will not tear up your kness and you have fun doing it. You can also use what you learn at faire and make all of the nearby rogues' eyes bug out and tounges hang out and become your slaves. A terrible job, but someone has to do it.

Ahh...I love belly dancing! :singdanc: I've taken many, many classes.
yet again, finding a good instructor being the issue. I found one near my house , but it conflicted with something else I was doing at the time. Perhaps I will go back and try again!
But I practice quite a bit on my own...and on my bf. :twisted:
I know it's working when I've danced 1.5 seconds and he tackles me and proceeds to make it very, very difficult.
Honestly, that was about the only time it seemed a good thing to be extra voluptous...so I think I shall try it again.

[Silverwind]

If you ever join an invasion to Texas then you can come and dance with us. Mary has danced at Scarby for the past few years now and I am one of the drummers for the dancers so I get to participate as well.

(Yes, it is a tough job to sit behind all of the belly dancers) :twisted: :D

[Mistress Kristi]

Also look for all female gyms. They are everywhere (not necessarily Curves but that is a good one too) I don't like working out with men, it makes me self conscious too. The other thing is that you have to watch what you eat (I'm telling myself this too, as I eat Hershey kisses LOL). I work out every day, weights and elliptical but I'm plateauing because I eat too much junk. It is a happy balance. Good luck, and some of the most beautiful women I've ever seen are curvy, keep that in mind.

[Foxglove2660]

Foxglove, you're not allowed to chew me out for this post. :x

I only want to help. I'm sorry you feel I'm chewing you out. You did ask me to be your workout buddy when you joined the gym with me...

perhaps you should consider working with Teri :oooh: (one of the personal trainers at the gym) Tell her about your issues. She may even cut you a break on the cost.

Did you tell Marissa (instructer) about the neck issue in Pilates? She showed me modifications with my knees, she will probably have them for your neck... :oooh:

I agree with you about the chick teaching the abs class. :pfft:

Changes to eating habits is the best way to reduce weight. Activity is the best way to maintain weight loss. You can do it. :wink:

[Brihanon]

Weight can be a thing to contend with. I lost 60 lbs once and it felt great, I even managed to keep it off for several years. Now I'm back to my big self, and have added a back injury and menopause to the mix.

yee haa!

I've decided to meditate more to lead to more possitive energy towards eating right. activity will go up after that.

you are a smart wench, and know that it isn't what you are eating, it's what's eating you (mentaly)

If I could do it you can. I'm pulling for you

bri

[Mylilpinkpig]

I would recomend what my wench did. Find a belly dance class. If is no-impact excersize that will not tear up your kness and you have fun doing it. You can also use what you learn at faire and make all of the nearby rogues' eyes bug out and tounges hang out and become your slaves. A terrible job, but someone has to do it.

Ahh...I love belly dancing! :singdanc: I've taken many, many classes.
yet again, finding a good instructor being the issue. I found one near my house , but it conflicted with something else I was doing at the time. Perhaps I will go back and try again!
But I practice quite a bit on my own...and on my bf. :twisted:
I know it's working when I've danced 1.5 seconds and he tackles me and proceeds to make it very, very difficult.
Honestly, that was about the only time it seemed a good thing to be extra voluptous...so I think I shall try it again.

If you don't feel comfortable going to a belly dance class, there are great tapes available that you can do at home. Also, if you have arthritis in your neck..look up the nearest Arthritis Foundation near you and give them a call. They can recommend a good excercise class and give you information about the kinds of excercises that are good for your neck. You can bring that to the instructor and help them understand the problem with your neck so they can work with you.

[Dragonfly]

If you don't feel comfortable going to a belly dance class, there are great tapes available that you can do at home. Also, if you have arthritis in your neck..look up the nearest Arthritis Foundation near you and give them a call. They can recommend a good excercise class and give you information about the kinds of excercises that are good for your neck. You can bring that to the instructor and help them understand the problem with your neck so they can work with you.

Hey, I had not thought of that! Thank you!
I get tired of trying to accomodate on my own for the movements they're doing in class, and I've felt like a dork for making a big deal of it to the instructor in the past so...that is a most excellent idea.
:)

[Mairi the Herbwench]

OK - I'm done with the hypnotism for weight loss classes, and it was great - very relaxing, I'm eating less, got into my size 18 jeans that haven't fit for over a year - I recommend it! Mine was thru Community Education - $45 for 3 sessions, and a $75 gift certificate for a one-on-one session.

[Nevada]

Some places have specific water classes for folks with arthritis..they are great

[Mairi the Herbwench]

Oh yeah - did that too - the pools are heated to about 80-90 degrees, and it feels great. Never lost any weight, but I quit hurting in the morning when I woke up.

[Lady Imoan]

if I mite suggest, Windsor Pillates videos, on the basics tape the lady goes through and tells you you can do this and that to modify the move to something you can handel if you have, neck or back problems, I haven't started doing them yet, just got them ohhh a month ago :oops: but I did watch through the basics so I know what I'm getting in to and for what I can see it looks pretty good.
Best of luck to you dear.

[Lady Laurel]

I have been going to pilates for about 8 months but I cannot get to all the classes with my schedule. What tape did you get. I know Denise Austin does some good Pilates tapes but I am trying to figure out what tape to buy.

Suggestions :lol:

[Constance Innuendo]

as someone who has battled with weight for nigh on 10 years now (look at my pic I finally won!:) I would just like to take this time to make a PSA about "ideal weight" and "goal wieght" see a physician and go by what they say NOT what any diet program says. . .there are also age variables that go into calculating ideal weight. . . (5-10lbs for every 10 years after 20) some doctors can be unreasonable as well. . .(I figure if it sounds unreasonable, it IS. . .a good rough guideline is 100lbs at 5' and 5 lbs for every inch thereafter. . .add in the age variables as well also take into account your bone structure though. .. .if you are naturally of larger frame do NOT try to get down to the minimum weight recommended for your height. . .(people will start to ask if you're ill).
I'm not implying that anyone here has unreasonable expectations, in fact I figure its just the opposite . . .sometimes it feels good however to hear someone confirm/affirm what you were already doing. . . and this IS about feeling good:)

[Malarky]

Well, I must say, if you're looking to lose weight, I cannot recommend Weight Watchers enough. The first few weeks are difficult, with any diet, but the results are wonderful and have lasted and lasted. I lost 30 lbs. in a year for my wedding in june and have kept 25 of it off. (Bless the Newlywed nine) :)

The whole philosophy of WW is that is stresses not what you -can't- have, but what you can and dealing with portion control. Apparantly, to my dismay, an entire half of a pizza is not an appropriate portion. :) Eat whatever your hearts desire, but you have a points limit and portion control is key.

I think it works wonders and it really does work. It's not a fad, it's a true tested weight loss system.

Best of luck!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Adriana Rose]

Dragonfly keep up with the belly dancing, it helps alot! I have been doing it for a while now and I have had arthritius since I was a little kid. It is nice to your knees and also there is a not much that will hurt your back.

Also on the arthritus thing, Use Feverfew when you get a flare up it is an antiimmfalmatory and it is nicer on you than asprin.


drink lots of water and go for walks, and at the gym when the muscle man looks at you funny do what Sara said ask for advise and they might help.


Good luck sweetie