Starting Slow

Starqueg

Hello.  I'm just starting to try and get in shape, again.  My goal is to be in the shape I want for my wedding when I start lookinf for my gown.  Our date isn't for another two years, so I have about a year to get into shape.  It's not really about losing pounds for me, but turning fat into lean muscle and gaining endurance.  I have minimal endurance right now, and I want to change that.  I'm not a runner, I prefer to bike or use the elliptical machine.  I used to swim, but I don't feel comfortable at the pool at my gym.  I've lost weight in the past, so I know what I need to do, the hard part is just doing it. 

MyWedding13

Well on a bright note, it is good that you have found something in the past that has worked for you! Am I correct to say that your main issue is motivation? I think you just need to set small goals for yourself and get used to being back in the gym. Does your gym have fitness classes? Maybe do a few of those to get back into the groove of things!

xcrewgal

I'm in the same boat.  I've done diets before but only lost 5 pounds or so before I was back to my old (not so great) habits.

I think it's good to study yourself for a while.  When do you eat?  When do you make good decisions about food and exercise?  When do you make bad decisions?

For me, I realized I was usually very good about choosing smart breakfasts and lunch, but would consume most of my calories (and do so impulsively) around 4pm.

Also, when I was really stressed and anxious is when I made bad decisions about food.

Find your "triggers" and deal with those, rather than focus everything on the diet itself.  It's just the tool. 

I've been in therapy treating my anxiety, and I journal on days when I don't have sessions.  Dealing with the emotions and stress has made my exercise/diet journey a lot easier to conquer.