Still struggling along! Weight Loss Updates Anyone?

[RogersChapelFarm]

Ok so the first step is to admit you have a problem. Well that's obvious so let me tell you what I am planning to do. I need to lose weight. I am a dressage rider who no longer rides. I know I am still a dressage rider inside! I was once very serious and very ambitious. Now I need to lose over 100 pounds. I want to ride again. I don't give a crap about skinny jeans or whatever. I want to stay alive for my daughter and I want to be an active rider again. I don't want any fat girl riding attacks now. I am not planning to ride any time soon. What I am planning to do is blog. I have never blogged before but I am doing it to use it as a journal and to make myself honest and accountable for my actions. I am posting this here so that you may police me if you so desire. I am in need of support and I need an audience for my blog to know that someone is paying attention to it and I can't just stop. I am asking you to be my Jenny Craig type counselor or whatever only for free! Did I say please? Ok so if you need to lose a little weight or alot please see my blog and help me out on this endeavor. I hope that oneday I will be my inner dressage rider again! http://flyingchangesweightloss.blogspot.com/

[kahjul]

Wow, this has taken alot of courage. I'm not sure I could have done it. I'm not much for blogging and this is the only forum I visit, but I would love to help you in any way I can. I'm also a mother and carry more weight than I would like since my son was born. Well, he's 10 now, so I can't call it baby weight anymore!! I started running recently and my son has a Wii Fit which I highly recommend. My husband and I have both helped our balance and lost a few pounds on it. Your horses are lovely. You have obviously made the committment, thats the first step. Good luck and feel free to pm me, maybe we can buddy up.

[magickmeadow]

I am so impressed. You can do it! I have lost 45 lbs in the last year and feel great. If you want to correspondend with other mothers please feel free to contact my daughter, Danielle. She is at westernglamour@hotmail.com. She and some friends are doing a blog to help each other in their goal to a healthier lifestyle.

[stryder]

Congratulations! you've taken the first step. There may be missteps along the way, but you've started.

[mbm]

good luck to you. you deserve to be wherever you want to be.

[Coreene]

You go, girl! I have lost 65 lbs since the end of June. Not done yet, loving every minute of it! :D

[Ambrey]

Look how beautiful you are! Can't wait to see you back on a horse!

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

FABULOUS!!! We're happy - and probably envious!

[fiona]

Way to go! Congratulations on your courage, your style and not that you need it Good Luck!

[Paragon]

I look forward to reading your blog - and finding my own inspiration.

Brava to you!

[Coreene]

Look how beautiful you are! Can't wait to see you back on a horse!Thank you, but I never was off the horse; we are never at the barn at the same time so you wouldn't have seen me mounted or unmounted. The largest pair of half chaps have been tossed. The ones which were so tight they were only worn with breeches are now getting way too lose over jeans (yes, shock horror to the DQs of the world, jeans and half chaps!), and the pre-diet breeches have been passed on to an abbondanza friend. :cool:

[WBLover]

GOOD FOR YOU!! I got up to 225lbs a couple of years ago while I was taking a hiatus from riding and had my DD. Like you, I really missed horse ownership and since my daughter is no longer a baby it was time to return to riding. I lost 40lbs on Weight Watchers. I HIGHLY recommend the program if you feel that you need structure and a diet to follow. Like the plan that you have for yourself, you don't just go cold turkey into a 1200 calorie/day diet. It starts you off at a higher amount of calories and then gradually reduces them as you lose weight. I NEVER felt like I was deprived or starving.

I would also suggest setting smaller goals for yourself. 100lbs is a huge goal, and it could become overwhelming and discouraging because it will take a long time to lose that amount. I'd hate for you to give up after 20lbs because you keep thinking of how much more you still have to lose and it's too much. Maybe start off with a 20 or 30lb goal, see how you feel, then set another goal after that. Then you will have the successes of the smaller goals to encourage you to keep going, and you can always keep in the back of your mind your ultimate goal.

Here's me after my 40lbs initial goal.

http://picasaweb.google.com/notasoccermom68/Beau#5222572411335929730

As you can see I am still overweight and would like to lose more (probably 40 more lbs is realistic for my body type and age), but it did make me feel much better and I was able to get back in the saddle. I have started back up again so that by spring when we get back to riding (my horse had the winter off to grow up some more) I'll be in better shape and will continue to lose.

Best of luck to you, and if you need any advice, encouragement, or help, feel free to PM me!!

[Coreene]

OP, while you are going through the process, do come and check out the Womanly Sized Riders Unite thread on Off Course. All sorts of shopping suggestions for lovely riding clothes for the Rubeneque Rider while you're slimming down! Damn thread has cost me a fortune but is just fabulous! :lol:

[Go Fish]

WB Lover - sage advice. You look fab, BTW! :)

[TropicalStorm]

Good for you! as I said, I'll be following your blog too and hopefully gain my inspiration as well!

[kansasgal]

I am one of those lucky few who tends to stay about the same weight no matter what I do, not counting that time I got to spend a semester in college eating my way across Great Britain..... ( 1985...exchange rate was close to $1.00/ 1 pound, all those delicious bargains!)

Although I know I WOULD be a better rider if I were more fit. It's just that there are all these built in excuses with 4 kids and a busy family life....

But talking about me is not the reason I want to reply to your post.....
The horse that I have been leasiing for the past 6 months is owned by a very kind and generous young woman who has made the decision to stop riding because she thinks she's too heavy for her horse. I actually wish she WOULD get on him once in a while, esp. since winter is here and I haven't been able to get out as much.....
I figure it is her business, I have told her she is welcome to ride him. It's a fine line, I don't want to hurt feelings, and I want to show respect. I just worry that she's in a downward spiral.... no riding..... depression.... eat more..... resolve not to ride till weight is lost..... get depressed, eat more.... but I don't say a word.

She has owned this horse since he was born, he is 9.

I have seen some fabulous riders who are overweight. Are you familiar with Susan Harris?

Anyway, thanks for sharing the process with us, and may you experience peace, happiness and many blessings in the new year.

Good luck and best wishes from Kansas.

[Ambrey]

Thank you, but I never was off the horse; we are never at the barn at the same time so you wouldn't have seen me mounted or unmounted. The largest pair of half chaps have been tossed. The ones which were so tight they were only worn with breeches are now getting way too lose over jeans (yes, shock horror to the DQs of the world, jeans and half chaps!), and the pre-diet breeches have been passed on to an abbondanza friend. :cool:

LOL, I was talking to the OP, but you're beautiful too. And I have seen you on a horse ;) Enormous black chap, I believe :winkgrin:

I was going to tell the OP that she should come to the barn, where "big girls don't ride" is not in the jukebox. I've never bought into the "fat=evil" hypothesis.

[godoget]

You seem very determined! That will be your key to success.

Two suggestions:

1) Break your total calories for the day into 5, 6 or even 8 small meals. Don't let yourself get hungry. Eat by the clock.

2) Wean yourself off of those diet drinks. They can increase your cravings for sweets.

Good luck!
And Go Dawgs!!!!

[indigoshorses]

I just wanted to thank you for putting yourself out there--this was exactly what I needed to read today. Thank you for being an inspiration!!!

[IrishDeclan]

Congrats on taking the first step!!!! It's so admirable that you want to stay healthy for not only your family but also to return to doing something that you love. I know you can do it!!!!:)

[ChocoMare]

You go girl!!!!!!!! :) I'm right there with ya. Need to lose 80...well, 60 now since I've lost some already.

I'm not going by pounds, tho. Size works for me. Started at a 26, now at a 22. I'm shooting for a 14 :D Have already downsized the 1/2 chaps and tights. XXL is too big!!!

You can do it!!! :yes: I also recommend Weight Watchers. It's structure, instead of torture. ;)

[Coreene]

OP, don't forget the water as well. I drink at least 10 glasses a day; it's an extra boost and good for you as well. Delighted for you that you are doing this, it will melt off and you'll be thrilled!

And just think of the shopping...

[RogersChapelFarm]

Thank you all for responding. Let me say a few things. I did ride when I was already getting heavy. And I rode with the best and I was still a very good rider. I did however stop showing. I thought that me in the white breeches and coat wasn't too cute and I couldn't afford it because I was in Wellington. I chose training over showing. I was probably 190+ when I rode with Sue Blinks and she was complementary of my seat. I also worked for and rode with Gunnar at that weight. I hosted that clinic at my farm in Palm Beach and the guest riders all asked why they had never seen me show and encouraged me to do so. Gunnar said I should be showing 4th level and PSG then. I am not planning to wait until I am thin to ride again but I would say it will still be a little while. I remanined very very active in riding as I gained weight so I could do it back then. Now after all of the time off I have had and the horses have had I will get myself and the horses back in shape somewhat first. Plus I rode my solidly built mare then and she was very fit at the time wheras she is 20 and weaning her foal now and the riding horse that I have is young and not very big or strong yet. I avoided the camera like the plague when I rode at my heavier weight but if I can find a lone pic here I will post it! Oh and I also did the ride when noone is around thing so most people thought I never rode.

[Coreene]

Oh girl, I am so there with you re the white breeches! But good for you, it's going to be fabulous when you take that next trip down centerline. :D

[merrygoround]

You seem very determined! That will be your key to success.

Two suggestions:

1) Break your total calories for the day into 5, 6 or even 8 small meals. Don't let yourself get hungry. Eat by the clock.

2) Wean yourself off of those diet drinks. They can increase your cravings for sweets.

Good luck!
And Go Dawgs!!!!

Excellent advice.

Good luck!

Ride on!!

[WBLover]

Yes, white breeches were invented by a very skinny girl with no cellulite. They are cruel, very cruel! I try to find them in the thickest material possible so the cottage cheese doesn't show as much, of course then I sweat to death showing in 90 degree plus weather. :(

[EqTrainer]

Congratulations :D

One of my very best friends is morbidly obese. I love her dearly and she is killing herself. It has reached the point where she has an excuse to not bend down.. to not walk more than a few feet... to not be able to breathe properly... what an awful, horrible thing this is. She will probably not live to see her daughters children. It may be the saddest thing I have ever seen.

Good for you for making this commitment. You will inspire others and it will change your life and theirs.

[Briggsie]

Good Luck! You can do it. Here are some tips...
Promise yourself to take one picture a week....i did mine on sundays.

I had an epiphany once too....and realized...wow. Size 6 to a 14 did not happen because the dryer was shrinking my clothes. So...I made a pact...

Stick to your goals and blow yourself off when you want to eat junk...dont listen to the bad voice in your head. Tell yourself nothing tastes as good as thin feels. You can do it.

[Jazzy's mom]

I am thrilled for you. I have been in a similar situation. My dressage horse is now retired and 27, and I sold a wonderful homebred when I realized that he would be better off with someone who had more time for him. My son just turned a year and I just started back to the gym. I have a similar goal of 70-100 lbs but I am more interested in building my muscle and tone back up. I truely commend you for starting a blog it is a hard thing to do to make the "before" public but you have a huge amount of support.

I truely hope that in the future I can get a horse again and continue my riding and learning. I laughed when a friend who had not seen me ride walked by the arena before I sold my youngster and stared for a while and said "wow, you have really long legs"...now I just want long skinny legs!!

[Highflyer]

Hey, it might be easier than you think. I've lost 85 lbs since June.

This is me in May: http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/orderpage.aspx?pi=0EBK0070180009&po=9

230 lbs and 5'3--seeing these pictures made me realize I had to do something.

And this is me in November--155 lbs: http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/orderpage.aspx?pi=05MP004W050044&po=44

It's been an uphill battle (I'm lazy and I really like to eat!) but not nearly as hard as I thought it would be. I eat pretty much all the time, but mostly fruit/ vegetables, and I run about 25 miles/ week. And I'm a size 10. I can buy riding clothes off the rack, for the first time since middle school. When I got carded at the liquor store last week, the clerk refused to believe my drivers license photo was me.

[George Myers]

OP - I wish you well and I applaud your resolve.

To all those who have put on a lot of weight but still want to ride may I make a couple of observations.

The weight of the rider is not so much the issue for a horse (assuming it is healthy, has good feet and good muscle tone) - it is the way the weight is distributed and holds itself which can be harmful.

For the most part, the size of saddle a horse can safely wear is what dictates the weight it can safely carry. It is essential that the saddle fits the horse to distribute the rider's weight evenly - and it is essential that the rider fits the saddle. If a person's backside is too big for the saddle that fits the horse, her/his weight is inevitably in the wrong place - ie sitting too far towards the cantle - which can be crippling for the horse, or too close to the pommel which is crippling for the rider. :)

The other thing that is essential is the rider's fitness. Active riders who carry themselves and maintain their own balance are far easier for the horse to carry than passive riders who cannot maintain their own balance. This applies to thin riders as well - but it is obvious that heavier riders who are passive and unbalanced are likely to have a greater impact on the horse - and sooner.

(That being said, I'd rather see a heavy but light-handed and light-seated rider than a light but heavy-handed and heavy-seated one.)

Attaining basic fitness and especially that core strength needs to be done off the horse in my view. So, do some Pilates or other form of exercise which strengthens those core muscles before you ride - your horse will thank you for it.

[CurlyLindsay]

Hey, it might be easier than you think. I've lost 85 lbs since June.

This is me in May: http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/orderpage.aspx?pi=0EBK0070180009&po=9

230 lbs and 5'3--seeing these pictures made me realize I had to do something.

And this is me in November--155 lbs: http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/orderpage.aspx?pi=05MP004W050044&po=44

It's been an uphill battle (I'm lazy and I really like to eat!) but not nearly as hard as I thought it would be. I eat pretty much all the time, but mostly fruit/ vegetables, and I run about 25 miles/ week. And I'm a size 10. I can buy riding clothes off the rack, for the first time since middle school. When I got carded at the liquor store last week, the clerk refused to believe my drivers license photo was me.

You're my new hero. :D Well done. :)

[Ambrey]

And of course, you can consider that there are many horses out there who endure much worse in their lives besides carrying a little too much weight in a less than optimal place.

[FatDinah]

I second EQTrainer: The real issue is looking after your health, not getting hung up on appearance.

Whatever motivates you, go for it.

Here's a suggestion with your young horse: One of my trainers used to send her overweight husband and her yearling out jogging together!!!

[allpurpose]

Just wanted to add my congratulations to this thread. You are truly an inspiration. I'm taking a first step towards weight loss today as well, and will be looking at your blog for inspiration along the way! You go girl!;)

[WBLover]

Absolutely George Myers, but some of use the excuse not to lose weight that even though we are overweight we are fit and we can be decent riders. And yes, we probably are. But I did start riding again while I was still 225lbs (not on my young horse--on an older well trained/fit one), and I would be lying if I told you I rode just as well at that weight as I do now 40lbs less.

You DO feel a difference...and I feel like an even MORE effective rider without the extra weight. :) :cool:

And as for my health, that 40lbs also lowered my cholesterol from 'high', to 'within normal levels'. :cool:

[stoneymeadow]

In 2007 I lost over 70 lbs and I know how very hard the first step is...and each step is every day. But congrats on taking the first step and being so determined, and public! I applaud your courage to put yourself out there.

I earned my Bronze Medal in 2006 but realized that is was as far as I would go if I did not dramatically increase my fitness and improve my health. I started my journey Jan 9 2007. I emailed a close group of friends every week with my progress, goals, fears, joys, doubts, etc. My own form of group therapy. They were wonderful and cheered me each step of the way.

I also bought my dream horse in mid 2007. Gabel had been professionally shown to PSG and at first wasn't too sure he wanted to take on an AA. But he has become my trusted partner and teacher. We showed three shows during the 2008 season - one at 3rd, one at 4th and one at PSG. And we earned our Silver Medal. I will never forget the total thrill of wearing my tails for my first PSG....I felt so proud and had to fight back tears as we halted at X BOTH times....the entry halt as I was just so proud for having gotten to that point, and the final halt because I knew I had just ridden about as well as I could. I'm a sap and admit it :)

So set your dreams and goals high as you can do anything!!! You have inspired me to keep my determination high and keep fighting everyday to control my demons. I would like to lose another 30 lbs and you have just kicked me in the butt to get going!!!! I will follow your blog wishing you the best each and every day.

Here is a link to my website to the page for the horse that took me to my Bronze and now showing 4th level....you can see my before an after photos

http://www.stoneymeadowfarms.com/ourhorses/klassact.html

[Ambrey]

Absolutely George Myers, but some of use the excuse not to lose weight that even though we are overweight we are fit and we can be decent riders. And yes, we probably are. But I did start riding again while I was still 225lbs (not on my young horse--on an older well trained/fit one), and I would be lying if I told you I rode just as well at that weight as I do now 40lbs less.

Nobody needs an excuse not to lose weight. People who feel comfortable and happy at their current weight shouldn't need to justify it to anyone.

Of course, if you're talking about the excuses we make to OURSELVES when we're NOT happy or healthy at our current weight, then that's different :winkgrin:.

[George Myers]

And of course, you can consider that there are many horses out there who endure much worse in their lives besides carrying a little too much weight in a less than optimal place.

Indeed they do but two wrongs never did make a right. And I did point out that there are things that offset the issue of a 'little too much weight' - sadly though, that weight being in a 'less than optimal place' will invariably cause harm.

From many years of judging and teaching I know that no horse ever goes well or stays sound if it is forced to work when it is uncomfortable and a heavy rider in a too small saddle will make them uncomfortable. This applies to thin riders as well - but the physics mean that the heavier the rider is the more likely it is that poor weight distribution will cause harm.

I do not intend to get into the politics of weight but just wanted to point out that our sport is one that involves a living creature - riders are made great athletes by the horse's athleticism - not solely by their own efforts. Our part of the bargain is to be as fit and active as possible - and to ride in a saddle that fits the horse and us. If that means riding a bigger horse who can accommodate a bigger saddle to accommodate our bigger butts - then that's what we should do.

I am sorry if this offends anyone but I would say the same things to a thin rider who, for example, had no desire or ability to develop finesse and balance - if you are not prepared to do what is necessary to be a good (ie balanced and active) rider, take up another sport.

[George Myers]

To the OP : eat only whole foods and cut out all processed / refined foods (personally I'd cut out the diet sodas as well because the sugar substitutes won't be doing you much good); don't starve yourself and enjoy what you eat; exercise appropriately to your current weight and level of fitness (cycling and swimming are good ways of getting movement without too much strain on the body); and - best tip - walk your horses in hand - they'll benefit as well as you.

[slc2]

You go get 'em girl! :D

I have not a few pounds to lose too so I will be checking in.

You have absolutely lovely features and a super build for riding, with long legs and short above the waist, you should be very, very pleased with your results and see a lot of success riding.

It really does make a difference for riding and competing. It's really very tough and tiring to travel, setup, and ride, especially in hot sunny weather, when one has a little extra to carry around. Too, it is much easier to do the upper level work when one isn't carrying a little extra. That demands so much of the stomach muscles and core.

[nhwr]

Speaking as a FFP (formerly fat person), I say psffft to the politics of weight. However well you ride, you will do better if you weigh less. That is the truth of it - just basic physics.

If one wants one's horse to do as well as it can, one needs to do their part and stay out of the horse's way. I was a fairly fit, fat person. I lifted weights and did aerobics. My endurance was great. I was in fact fitter than many of my thinner friends. But I was still fat. To be fat means you are not in total control of your body, physically. How can you effectively ride a horse like that? These days I am thin, super fit and decent in the saddle. The improvement in my health is a blessed side effect.

It seems unreasonable to me that one believes they can ask their horse to control themselves with precision, as we do in dressage, if one is unable to exercise that same control over one's own body.

OP, you can do it! I looked at your blog. You have a beautiful child and no small ability as a rider. You have every reason to accomplish this. Losing the weight isn't as hard as continuously keeping your resolve to be thin. Change your life :yes:

Good luck!

Kudos to Coreene, btw.
She is becoming downright svelte and looks mahhrvelous :D

[goodpony]

You ladies are Amazing! Warmest wishes for your success!

[Ambrey]

Indeed they do but two wrongs never did make a right. And I did point out that there are things that offset the issue of a 'little too much weight' - sadly though, that weight being in a 'less than optimal place' will invariably cause harm. .

OK, I'm sure you're positive that this is true. However, these horses are carrying an awful lot of weight and horses have been asked to do the same for centuries without cries of abuse:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/donwooden/232407354/
http://ocw.mit.edu/ans7870/21f/21f.027/gt_japan_people/ga1_vis_ser07.html

and honestly, I've never seen any sort of unbiased research that shows that horses are injured by an overweight rider and light work. And I daresay going through any area where horses are expected to work for a living and announcing that expecting them to carry 225 lbs is abuse might get you quite a few amused chuckles.

[Ambrey]

To the OP : eat only whole foods and cut out all processed / refined foods (personally I'd cut out the diet sodas as well because the sugar substitutes won't be doing you much good); don't starve yourself and enjoy what you eat; exercise appropriately to your current weight and level of fitness (cycling and swimming are good ways of getting movement without too much strain on the body); and - best tip - walk your horses in hand - they'll benefit as well as you.

My NYR has to do with this- we eat a tremendous amount of overprocessed food at my house (not junk food per say, just barely-food). I announced that I'm cutting processed sugars completely out of my diet in an effort to get my health under control (immune dysfunction/CFS stuff). Funny how many aisles at Vons were eliminated by such a decree ;)

I figured just that one change would help my diet veer a great deal toward the more healthy side of the spectrum.

[dalpal]

Congratulations :D

One of my very best friends is morbidly obese. I love her dearly and she is killing herself. It has reached the point where she has an excuse to not bend down.. to not walk more than a few feet... to not be able to breathe properly... what an awful, horrible thing this is. She will probably not live to see her daughters children. It may be the saddest thing I have ever seen.

Good for you for making this commitment. You will inspire others and it will change your life and theirs.


I'm really sorry to hear this, I had hoped things would have changed. :(

OP, you go girl......keep us posted here, I'll forget to check your blog...but cheering you on. :yes:

[Gayla]

OK, I'm sure you're positive that this is true. However, these horses are carrying an awful lot of weight and horses have been asked to do the same for centuries without cries of abuse:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/donwooden/232407354/
http://ocw.mit.edu/ans7870/21f/21f.027/gt_japan_people/ga1_vis_ser07.html

and honestly, I've never seen any sort of unbiased research that shows that horses are injured by an overweight rider and light work. And I daresay going through any area where horses are expected to work for a living and announcing that expecting them to carry 225 lbs is abuse might get you quite a few amused chuckles.

I dare say that everyone here is correct. I encourage the OP to ride while on her weight loss journey. It will do wonders for your motivation. Waiting to ride until you thin enough is not the correct mind set for success. Believe me I watched the roping championships on RFDTV last night...you won't hurt your horse :lol::lol::lol: you should have seen those fat %ss men running those horses. But you will of course ride better and feel better as you get thinner. But go ahead and ride! Best of luck. :D

[cranky]

Thanks for this thread, I'm finding it very inspiring! I lost about 50 lbs in 2008 and starting to ride again was one of my rewards to myself. I am hoping to lose another 30-40 lbs in 2009, so I'm finding your post very timely. OP, I added a link to your blog from mine (so that I can easily check in), I hope that's okay.

[George Myers]

OK, I'm sure you're positive that this is true. However, these horses are carrying an awful lot of weight and horses have been asked to do the same for centuries without cries of abuse:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/donwooden/232407354/
http://ocw.mit.edu/ans7870/21f/21f.027/gt_japan_people/ga1_vis_ser07.html

and honestly, I've never seen any sort of unbiased research that shows that horses are injured by an overweight rider and light work. And I daresay going through any area where horses are expected to work for a living and announcing that expecting them to carry 225 lbs is abuse might get you quite a few amused chuckles.

Pulling a load or carrying a static load is very different from carrying a rider. And I specifically didn't say that weight itself is the problem - it is the distribution of the weight that can become a problem; the greater the weight - especially when it is concentrated in small areas, the more quickly problems may emerge and the more severe they may become.

A healthy horse of sufficient size can carry 225 lbs - but if that weight is concentrated on a small area as happens with too small a saddle or a poorly fitting saddle, muscles can suffer severe damage.

I judged a class recently in which a rider who weighed about 190lbs or so was riding a light framed, short coupled 15.1hh thoroughbred; the saddle was the correct size for the horse but way too small for the rider. She could not sit in the deepest part of the saddle - but was perched on the cantle. This concentrated her weight on a small area of the horse's back and is a recipe for pain - and avoidance of pain - which, in this case, was a horse running along with its back hollow and its head in the air.

This is not bias against heavier riders - as I said I have seen many skinny riders who I'd like to see take up golf - it is a simple fact. The saddle needs to fit the horse and the rider needs to fit the saddle - or the horse will suffer.

Actually so will the rider - I can think of little that is more uncomfortable than riding a hollow-backed horse in a saddle that is too small for me. :)

[Hazelnut]

You go, Girl.

Happy 2009. Keep us posted on your progress. I admire you.

[Gayla]

I can think of little that is more uncomfortable than riding a hollow-backed horse in a saddle that is too small for me. :)

You can say that again.

[Ambrey]

I judged a class recently in which a rider who weighed about 190lbs or so was riding a light framed, short coupled 15.1hh thoroughbred; the saddle was the correct size for the horse but way too small for the rider. She could not sit in the deepest part of the saddle - but was perched on the cantle. This concentrated her weight on a small area of the horse's back and is a recipe for pain - and avoidance of pain - which, in this case, was a horse running along with its back hollow and its head in the air.

What, like this?
http://schmick.org/horse/versatility.shtml

Only in that case they call it keeping back off the horse's shoulders to give them free range of motion.

I daresay your preconceptions are coloring your observations. No horse was ever killed by a saddleseat rider either ;)

[thatmoody]

Agh, this was a timely post for the new year. I've been working on this (now that they've readjusted my stupid thyroid meds) but I do need to change the diet part of the equation. I've ALWAYS exercised a lot, and cleaning 11 stalls and feeding a bunch of horses and riding is doing a lot for me physically (as is surfing 3-4 hours a day several days a week) but that stupid junk food is my downfall!

So I resolve (before New Years - might as well start now) to eat healthier this year, and to try to lose the 30 or so pounds that are interfering with my riding prowess. I figure I have about 90 days till my stallion is off stall rest, so that's about enough time to get a little fitter/slimmer. In the meantime I'll keep riding the 16 hh greenie, and walking/surfing/swimming.

Thank you for the motivation.

And btw, here is my "before" picture. I've lost about 10 lbs since then doing nothing other than taking my higher dose of synthroid, but it's not ALL my thyroid :D
http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k307/thatmoody/kathy094.jpg
http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k307/thatmoody/kathy087.jpg

[pony4me]

Congratulations! Yes, the Fiber One or Special K diet will jump start weight loss. Long term, switching to simpler foods and simpler cooking methods is healthier. You will find a lot of support here, and a lot of people who admire what you are doing and wish you the greatest success.

[ToN Farm]

Regarding what George Meyers is saying.......

A person weighing 200+ pounds is likely to require a 19 inch saddle. The average horse's back is just not long enough for such a big saddle without the back of the saddle sitting past the 18th vertebrae. Therefore, it is unlikely that a 200+ person could find a saddle that fit both the rider and the horse. ??? True???

George, I would be interested in any articles/information you have about weight distribution of rider and saddle fit.

[Ambrey]

If this is the case, why aren't saddleseat horses routinely unsound?

How about breeds/disciplines that don't pay attention to dressage convention, regularly putting 200 lb fellows on little midget horses and sending them careening at full speed across the arena? Arab circuit? Reining? All these guys are just fabulous riders?

And why does dressage have so much unsoundness despite the overwhelming presence of 100 lb 5'1 women?

Which brings me to another question- if any activity that might impede soundness is unethical... um, what the heck is everyone doing here? The "trail riding, only on soft ground with no rocks, at a walk" forum is down the hall, to the left.

[nhwr]

Most disciplines aren't as intense as dressage. I live in a neighborhood with some pretty successful horse people snaffle futurity winners, reiners, breeders of the highest rated Holsteiner mare (a couple of years age), jumpers, successful eventers ... nobody trains like a serious dressage rider. The eventers work at cardio conditioning like maniacs. Nobody rides more intensely than those involved in dressage.

There is a real difference between a guy who is 6'1" @225 (he is probably reasonably fit) and a 5'5" woman who weighs that much (she is probably not so much).

My trainer once asked me to described what the difference in my riding was after I'd lost weight. My response: "Try to imagine what it would be like for your horse to be to ridden with a sack of grain in your lap."
It won't kill your horse if you are fat and you can still be moderately successful. I was.

But there is nothing you ask of your horse that isn't easier for them if your weight is appropriate. Today, at 5'9" and 165, I am not a light weight. But my horses know the difference.

[Luna]

On December 4th I started a weight loss program that is actually funded by the government. It is hardcore, and meant for people who have really struggled with weight and have health or hormone issues. I, too, need to lose 100 pounds, and since December 4 I have lost close to 20 pounds using a very safe, healthy regiment that is monitored by my doctor on a weekly basis (including bloodwork).

Christmas came and went I promised myself that I was worth more than a second helipng, or a dessert. I have so far resisted all temptations, and best of all, I have even been feeling much better already. I think my horse apreciates what little progress I have made as well. I wish you continued luck and success, and if any of what I am learning on my program may be helpful for you, I would be happy to share.

Congratulations on reaching the first step, trust me when I say that that is the hardest part!

[dalpal]

My best "keep in shape" secret.......a high energy dog who needs LOTS of exercise. :lol:

I take my dalmatians on offleash runs at the farm for about 3 hours a day. I am fortuante to have a mid afternoon/PM job at home (Flute studio)....I get up in the AM, take the dogs out in the back fields for 2 hours, come back ride my horse and then take them out in another field for 45 minutes to an hour before coming home. Definitely keeps my weight in check.

I don't lose weight easily, but at least I'm not gaining either. :yes: Now if I could make myself eat healthy EVERY night, I probably would lose weight...mabye that should be my New Years goal....I could lose 10-15 pounds. So frickin hard when you get close to 40.

[lizathenag]

any of you weight loss wonders over 50 (post menopause)? What did you do?

[slc2]

That's a very tough age, and you have to be ten times tougher in order to be successful. Menopause Brain has no clue what has been eaten and believes that to be full is to not be pushed off the iceberg, one has to constantly exert a 'conscious eating' program, writing down and adding up calories does seem to work.

These ladies who are getting into shape before menopause have the right idea. Get healthy before it hits, and it's a lot easier to stay that way.

If you have ambitious plans for your dressage riding that include the tougher competitions and/or having the perfect body control needed for upper level work, there really is no substitute for losing weight.

It is exhausting and a real strain to control extra weight in a sport like that. Dressage competition is a sport, a very, very difficult sport. There's no point in making it harder. It's hard enough already.

As far as how much weight a horse can carry, the amount goes down as the difficulty of the work goes up; the more the horse is expected to do anything other than move with a slower, flatter stride across the ground, the more impulsion, the more collection, the more self carriage, the more the weight of the rider affects the horse's effort and mechanics. True, at a slow walk or trot on a loose rein, for a brief ride, there may be little effect. But the more one asks the horse to work, the more the rider's weight affects him.

The cavalry at some point fixed it at 15 or 20 % of the horse's weight, but keep in mind, they weren't doing dressage, they weren't competing, there was a thriving 'remount' business to replace lame and used up horses, and you can look at the pictures of old cavalry horses yourself if you want to see how it affected them. There's a reason eventers didn't want to put extra weight on their horses, and what pounds over a jump pounds just a little bit at every step of dressage, too.

If the original poster doesn't want to ride til she's fitter, more power to her. It may be better for her morale to do it this way. It also gives a person more time to focus completely on the job at hand. Especially with children in the house, moms may not have unlimited time to themselves.

One of the greatest things about getting fit is the wonderful, amazing gift it gives your children. They can learn so much from this. You can establish habits in them that will keep them healthy all their lives. It isn't just about being around longer yourself. It's about the greatest gifts parents give their kids, education, health, and happiness.

[WBLover]

Ambrey, I was not at all saying that being a heavier rider hurt the horse, fit or not fit. 200+ lb men ride 15H QH's all the time without any detriment to them. What I meant was that *I* have become a better rider as a result of losing the weight, even though I was a fairly fit overweight rider. It's just a matter of my muscles not having to work as hard to be responsible for my weight in the saddle, and as a result my muscles being freer to influence the horse and keep a better position in the saddle. The over 16H horses I ride probably couldn't even feel the difference of 40lbs as far as the weight itself, and I doubt the horse I was riding while I was heavier had ANY trouble carrying me. But I feel better able to position myself in the saddle straighter, have more refined aids, and have much more stamina now. :)

[mortebella]

Hey, I read your blog. I want to tell you some things. Mostly, how much I ENVY you. I am one of those people you MIGHT envy to look at. I am your same height and weigh about 118 and have really long skinny legs, good for riding. I, too started riding when I was 6-7, but I had no support from my parents and fought every step of the way for every opportunity I ever got and finally quit, utterly burnt out and too exhausted emotionally to remember that I had ever loved a horse in my life. I only rediscovered my passion last year, after 30 years away. But this is not about ME. Your life with horses, what you have done, what you have accomplished, who you have worked with - girl, that 100 pounds is NOTHING to you! You snap your fingers at them! On you or off you, no difference. You have had the life I would have killed to have. You do whatever it suits you to do about your 100 pounds, or 50, or 40 or whatever, 'cause you have my respect. And anybody who goes disrespecting you, know that they are an idiot.

[ridgeback]

RogersChapelFarm you have become an inspiration to many and I include myself in that. You can do it and I know you will:yes:

[FancyFree]

My best "keep in shape" secret.......a high energy dog who needs LOTS of exercise. :lol:

I take my dalmatians on offleash runs at the farm for about 3 hours a day. I am fortuante to have a mid afternoon/PM job at home (Flute studio)....I get up in the AM, take the dogs out in the back fields for 2 hours, come back ride my horse and then take them out in another field for 45 minutes to an hour before coming home. Definitely keeps my weight in check.

I don't lose weight easily, but at least I'm not gaining either. :yes: Now if I could make myself eat healthy EVERY night, I probably would lose weight...mabye that should be my New Years goal....I could lose 10-15 pounds. So frickin hard when you get close to 40.

That is so true about a high energy dog. I guess none of my previous dogs were that high energy. They could give or take going for a run. I now have a four month old GSD. She needs to go for a big outing every day or something in my house gets messed with. We live across the street from a trail system that goes on forever, with lots of hills. If you want to take weight off fairly quickly, get a high energy dog and go walking. You'll find yourself running to keep up with your dog. I'm back in a pair of breeches that haven't seen the light of day in years!

[foursocks]

Good for you, OP- and for everyone who is setting positive goals. Good luck!! As a jumper rider I was very aware of how being out of shape limited me when I began riding again. Being in shape and in better control of my body has made me so much more effective. At 38 I am in better shape than I was through much of my 20s- I may not have the unwrinkled face anymore, but I look better in clothes! ;) More seriously, I feel so much better- stronger, more capable of doing difficult things and so on.

[Uh, Ambrey- this isn't about you. If you are happy with yourself- great. The OP is pursuing a goal that she is excited about and that will hopefully increase her level of health, her quality of life and maybe even allow her to surpass her previous riding ability. Please be generous and stop making everything about your own issues.]

[Gayla]

Hey, I read your blog. I want to tell you some things. Mostly, how much I ENVY you. I am one of those people you MIGHT envy to look at. I am your same height and weigh about 118 and have really long skinny legs, good for riding. I, too started riding when I was 6-7, but I had no support from my parents and fought every step of the way for every opportunity I ever got and finally quit, utterly burnt out and too exhausted emotionally to remember that I had ever loved a horse in my life. I only rediscovered my passion last year, after 30 years away. But this is not about ME. Your life with horses, what you have done, what you have accomplished, who you have worked with - girl, that 100 pounds is NOTHING to you! You snap your fingers at them! On you or off you, no difference. You have had the life I would have killed to have. You do whatever it suits you to do about your 100 pounds, or 50, or 40 or whatever, 'cause you have my respect. And anybody who goes disrespecting you, know that they are an idiot.
What a nice post. And this is also all I am trying to say. You don't have to HATE yourself to want to lose weight. :)

[FancyFree]

Good for you, OP- and for everyone who is setting positive goals. Good luck!! As a jumper rider I was very aware of how being out of shape limited me when I began riding again. Being in shape and in better control of my body has made me so much more effective. At 38 I am in better shape than I was through much of my 20s- I may not have the unwrinkled face anymore, but I look better in clothes! ;) More seriously, I feel so much better- stronger, more capable of doing difficult things and so on.

[Uh, Ambrey- this isn't about you. If you are happy with yourself- great. The OP is pursuing a goal that she is excited about and that will hopefully increase her level of health, her quality of life and maybe even allow her to surpass her previous riding ability. Please be generous and stop making everything about your own issues.]

Yes that is so true. Plus my horse is young, only four. In addition to limiting me as a rider, I feared being out of shape would get me killed. I was very worried about getting injured. Feeling strong gives a sense of confidence I think.

As for the end of your post, from your keyboard to God's ears. :lol:

[Ambrey]

Ambrey, I was not at all saying that being a heavier rider hurt the horse, fit or not fit. 200+ lb men ride 15H QH's all the time without any detriment to them. What I meant was that *I* have become a better rider as a result of losing the weight, even though I was a fairly fit overweight rider.

Oh, I wasn't responding to you- I was responding to another post that seemed to imply that if you're a heavier rider your horse will suffer. I just don't like to see "losing weight is good for everyone!" translated into "being heavy means you should not ride" or "if you ride when you're heavy you're abusing your horse."

Sure our horses are better off if we're lighter, if we're better riders, etc. But that doesn't mean that we shouldn't ride when we're heavy.

I have two horses. One of them has let me know in no uncertain terms that my weight is sometimes an issue for him- he's 800 lbs soaking wet and I'm 180. But the other? He could care less. He's 1500 lbs and I'm pretty sure the OP could ride him and he'd be thrilled by her skilled hands and seat, and not bat an eyelash at her weight. He is short backed, but I have a custom fit 18" Schleese that sweeps up and keeps off his back.

Even the little guy, by the way, is perfectly happy to have me ride him in light work. Loves the trails, gallops up hills and goes and goes and never runs out of energy. I can just tell that balancing is tough for him in arena work. Since he is not my horse, I leave him to the little people (my mom, daughter, and trainer). I've had a heavier friend who has better balance and a better seat ride him, though, and he was fine.

[Ambrey]

[Uh, Ambrey- this isn't about you. If you are happy with yourself- great. The OP is pursuing a goal that she is excited about and that will hopefully increase her level of health, her quality of life and maybe even allow her to surpass her previous riding ability. Please be generous and stop making everything about your own issues.]

Good try. This isn't my issue, it's the OP's (and many other women's) issue and I feel strongly about it. Women who struggling with weight should be encouraged to ride whenever possible, not discouraged with pseudo-science and veiled fat-ism.

Now please stick to the topic and not the posters, and life will be good.

[blackhorse6]

You go girl!! As for weight and how it affects the horse? Look at it this way.. How can we as humans/athletes demand more from the horse than from ourselves? Our horses have to maintain good fitness to do his/her job. Why should we be any different? Riding is a partnership.. We take great care of our equine partners...do the same for your self!! OK..off my soap box. I had cancer recently and thank God I was in wonderful shape for my age(mid 40's) I endured 36 infusions and am back in the saddle. Had I not been in good shape, the outcome may have been different. Good physical condition is best for the rider and the horse period.. Being overweight may not hurt the horse but is NOT good for the human body. Personally, I can't wait to hear from the OP about the fabulous but arduous journey.. It will be one of her best!! Good LUCK!:)

[Beasmom]

Good try. This isn't my issue, it's the OP's (and many other women's) issue and I feel strongly about it. Women who struggling with weight should be encouraged to ride whenever possible, not discouraged with pseudo-science and veiled fat-ism.

Now please stick to the topic and not the posters, and life will be good.

I haven't read a word about "fatism" here, Ambrey, except when you infer it.. The posters here have been extremely encouraging and enthusiastic for the OP. As usual, you ARE attempting to make this thread "all about Ambrey". Will YOU please stick to the topic, and not keep referring to yourself/your horses at every turn?

[indyblue]

On December 4th I started a weight loss program that is actually funded by the government. It is hardcore, and meant for people who have really struggled with weight and have health or hormone issues. I, too, need to lose 100 pounds, and since December 4 I have lost close to 20 pounds using a very safe, healthy regiment that is monitored by my doctor on a weekly basis (including bloodwork).

Christmas came and went I promised myself that I was worth more than a second helipng, or a dessert. I have so far resisted all temptations, and best of all, I have even been feeling much better already. I think my horse apreciates what little progress I have made as well. I wish you continued luck and success, and if any of what I am learning on my program may be helpful for you, I would be happy to share.

Congratulations on reaching the first step, trust me when I say that that is the hardest part!

Hi Luna. 20 pounds is not little progress.You get 20 pounds of butter and pile that up.Thats an awesome amount of weight to have lost allready.
To the OP.I think this is a great way to be motivated.Im sure that most here would like to shift some weight and will be very helpfull and encouraging.I have a 1yr old and I am struggling to take off about 10 pounds which seems to have made its home around my waist.I cant fit any of my riding clothes and when I ride I can really feel the weight affecting my riding.A friend and I have started walking for 40mins about 4 times a week.I push my daughter in her buggy which is hard work when we hit the hills.

Ambrey.No matter how many photos of horses being beasts of burden you post or examples of disciplines (sp?)where overweight people ride Im just not going to agree with you that it is OK.I think a big part of taking the step to lose weight is to be honest with yourself and if your horse is actually showing signs that you are too heavy for it you need to stay off its back.Dont make it all about the human and the humans emotional need to ride.Make it about the horse.

[Leena]

You go girl and Happy new year !

You have a goal, you have a reason and now you just need a little bit of discipline to win ! You are an inspiration !

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

Maybe some of you are in my boat.

I'm on inhaled corticosteroids, with the occasional oral dose up to 60 mg/day. I need this to breathe, period. I have been successful in weaning myself to lower and lower doses, and am almost at the point with my asthma specialist, if I can keep from getting another bad bronchial bout, of trying to go off entirely (but keep the singulair, as it's a reactive asthma).

I also have a very weird schedule - since there's no family, I tend to eat on the run (if an experiment has to be finished, or things run tight between meetings/teaching, lunch goes out the window). I eat raisin bran crunch on my way to the barn. I bring a salad in each day, not overloaded with dressing, but the steroids have changed my metabolism. Part of it is lifestyle, which has made me very efficient at storing! But those steroids...can't live with 'em, can't live without 'em!!!

Is anyone else in the same boat? What worked for you?

Part of the problem is cardio issues - that can also set off my asthma. I'm doing Pilates, which has helped my core.

Any advice? from those who have succeeded in dealing with this?

[TBrescue]

I just want to wish you the best on your journey. I'll be following your blog and rooting for you!!! Thanks for being an inspiration :)

[Ambrey]

Ambrey.No matter how many photos of horses being beasts of burden you post or examples of disciplines (sp?)where overweight people ride Im just not going to agree with you that it is OK.I think a big part of taking the step to lose weight is to be honest with yourself and if your horse is actually showing signs that you are too heavy for it you need to stay off its back.Dont make it all about the human and the humans emotional need to ride.Make it about the horse.

You and I will have to agree to disagree, then. I think we do things that aren't in the best interests of the horse every day (dressage, anyone?) and that making the whole heavy woman thing such a big deal is just about trying to make overweight people feel even worse about the situation they are in.

Of course, I'm not suggesting that we should ride horses who are in obvious discomfort- as I said, I have a horse who lets me know when my weight is an issue, and I back off when he does. I listen to his cues and what he tells me. But I am also 23% of his body weight, which for your average 1200 lb WB would be 276 lbs, and there are many things I can do on him without bothering him as long as I pay attention.

I'm just not able to convince myself that a 200+ lb woman should not get on a horse. Maybe not an 800 lb horse, but a beefy warmblood should be able to handle it (and there are many women who I suspect are pushing 200 lbs who ride at my stable, and I've yet to see a horse crumble under their weight).

[Kaeleer]

Hi,

It is lovely to read through all of these (largely) supportive posts. I'm rooting for everybody trying to lose weight in 2009, I'll be in the trenches with you.

[indyblue]

You and I will have to agree to disagree, then. I think we do things that aren't in the best interests of the horse every day (dressage, anyone?) and that making the whole heavy woman thing such a big deal is just about trying to make overweight people feel even worse about the situation they are in.

Of course, I'm not suggesting that we should ride horses who are in obvious discomfort- as I said, I have a horse who lets me know when my weight is an issue, and I back off when he does. I listen to his cues and what he tells me. But I am also 23% of his body weight, which for your average 1200 lb WB would be 276 lbs, and there are many things I can do on him without bothering him as long as I pay attention.

I'm just not able to convince myself that a 200+ lb woman should not get on a horse. Maybe not an 800 lb horse, but a beefy warmblood should be able to handle it (and there are many women who I suspect are pushing 200 lbs who ride at my stable, and I've yet to see a horse crumble under their weight).

I dont want to hijack a thread that is so positive for the OP but your middle paragraph concerns me.I dont have a problem with larger riders riding appropriate horses but your horse obviously cant carry your weight.For a horse to get to a stage where its actually physically struggling with you and in your words telling you that you are too heavy is pretty sad.Why do you continue to ride him?

[propspony]

LOL! Well I've just bookmarked your blog, so now you HAVE to update it every day!!!

Otherwise I can't say what I will do due to curiosity. :-)

Go for it! I know that those of us who are in the same boat are all rooting for you. :-)

[Ambrey]

I dont want to hijack a thread that is so positive for the OP but your middle paragraph concerns me.I dont have a problem with larger riders riding appropriate horses but your horse obviously cant carry your weight.For a horse to get to a stage where its actually physically struggling with you and in your words telling you that you are too heavy is pretty sad.Why do you continue to ride him?

I don't want to hijack either, so I won't respond to your clear attempt to get me embroiled in one of your little tirades. Suffice it to say that not only do I ride him (sometimes), but I'd give him hock injections if he needed it too.

[FancyFree]

I dont want to hijack a thread that is so positive for the OP but your middle paragraph concerns me.I dont have a problem with larger riders riding appropriate horses but your horse obviously cant carry your weight.For a horse to get to a stage where its actually physically struggling with you and in your words telling you that you are too heavy is pretty sad.Why do you continue to ride him?

I can never understand why heavier riders continue to ride in the face of their horses' discomfort. I don't feel that the 20% rule is accurate.

OP I commend you for making the welfare of your horse a priority. When I decided to get serious about losing weight, I did it for my health, the comfort of my horse and to be a fit, strong rider. As others have posted, it makes such a difference in your riding. I'm sure my horse notices the difference as well! I'm rooting for you! I bookmarked your blog!

[cnvh]

RCF, I know exactly how you feel. I've been riding since I was 5, never competitively but I've trained hunt-seat with some top-notch trainers and, not to toot my own horn, but I'm a darned good rider. Riding was/is a big part of my identity; it's who I am.

Unfortunately, I've also had a weight problem my whole life, too; I weighed 217 lbs. when I was a senior in high school and it only went up from there. I had a big, heavy-boned OTTB that I owned/rode comfortably until he retired. I gained again and then and lost lost a little weight (down to about 235), started taking lessons again, fell off, broke a collarbone, couldn't ride, and it all went downhill from there.

My weight got REALLY out-of hand and I ballooned up to about 325 pounds at its worst. Obviously I had stopped riding long before I got to 325 lbs., but the weight was causing all sorts of physical complications which was making even the most basic exercise difficult-- I could barely walk up a flight of stairs or across a parking lot without having to stop and take a break. My blood pressure was up, my joints were falling apart, I had sleep apnea, and riding was completely and totally out of the question. It was awful. AWFUL.

I made the decision to have gastric bypass surgery in December 2006, which, thank god, my insurance covered. Best decision I have ever made in my life... I'm not trying to tell you you should do this; a lot of people will probably say I took the easy way out, but I couldn't give two hoots what anyone else thinks-- I couldn't risk another round of yo-yo dieting, likely fail, and put on even MORE weight. Failing even one more diet would have been a death sentence, so I did what I felt I had to do.

It's been 2 years and I'm down about 120 pounds from my highest; I weigh about 203 lbs. now, but I am fitter than I have ever been in my life. I probably have at least 20+ lbs. of excess skin, so I'm by no means "skinny" but now at least I'm close to normal... I can fit into non-plus-size clothes, including breeches and half-chaps. :)

But by far the best outcome is that I've been able to get back to riding... My old OTTB crossed the Rainbow Bridge about 5 years ago, so I started leasing at my old boarding stable last spring, riding 2x/week. Back in September, a "too good to be true" offer fell into my lap, and I adopted a 5-year old OTTB, so not only am I back in the saddle again, I am a horse owner again, too.

Here's a photo of me at my worst: http://lh3.ggpht.com/__IeXPR0qt0E/R1q0qV6biKI/AAAAAAAACNA/HV9ORwgLgwQ/s640/DSC00086.jpg

And here's me now, with Charlie:
http://lh3.ggpht.com/__IeXPR0qt0E/SPozPa4r1cI/AAAAAAAAD_g/9--Kaul_-4Q/s512/DSC01647.JPG

So all I'm saying is, I totally feel your pain. Whatever you need to do to take the weight off, do it. Life's too short.

[FancyFree]

Wow what a difference cnvh! You look great!

[RogersChapelFarm]

Thank you all for your comments and advice. I cannot say at what point I will ride. I would love to sit on my mare again but I also want to breed her again this year. She is going to start a light work program on the lunge line and driving and that is very good for me too! I need her to be fit to continue to carry foals in her 20's. If I get light enough before she is super preggers then maybe I will get to sit on her this year. That would be a great goal. Even if I only walk and hack. I agree that a riders weight can be a problem as can all sorts of poor riding. I knew that would be a topic of discussion as a part of this thread for sure. I am very concerned for my horses health too! I have updated daily and I enjoy writing and taking photos so I hope that the blog is interesting enough as well! I have lots of support here now and in the months to come I hope it continues.

[JSwan]

I apologize for not reading all the responses, I usually do.

Just wanted to wish you the best of luck. I have no doubt you'll reach your goal and both you and your horse will be better for it. :)



Ok so the first step is to admit you have a problem. Well that's obvious so let me tell you what I am planning to do. I need to lose weight. I am a dressage rider who no longer rides. I know I am still a dressage rider inside! I was once very serious and very ambitious. Now I need to lose over 100 pounds. I want to ride again. I don't give a crap about skinny jeans or whatever. I want to stay alive for my daughter and I want to be an active rider again. I don't want any fat girl riding attacks now. I am not planning to ride any time soon. What I am planning to do is blog. I have never blogged before but I am doing it to use it as a journal and to make myself honest and accountable for my actions. I am posting this here so that you may police me if you so desire. I am in need of support and I need an audience for my blog to know that someone is paying attention to it and I can't just stop. I am asking you to be my Jenny Craig type counselor or whatever only for free! Did I say please? Ok so if you need to lose a little weight or alot please see my blog and help me out on this endeavor. I hope that oneday I will be my inner dressage rider again! http://flyingchangesweightloss.blogspot.com/

[see u at x]

I'm definitely inspired by your posting here and on your blog. My best friend and I have recently decided that we need to take some serious steps to losing weight as well. Personally, I would like to lose about 80 lbs. and drop about 4-5 clothing sizes. While the thought of it is exciting, it also terrifies the hell out of me. I get told often enough that I'm a nice rider...even a GOOD rider...which means the absolute world to me. But I want to be better. I want to actually LOOK good on my horses without cringing at every picture taken of me riding them. I know that if I can apply the same focus in my riding to losing weight that I can do it.

The hardest part is that I hate to exercise unless it is manual labor and/or horse related. I lost a lot of weight 4-5 years ago, but it all came back with a vengeance and then some after a really bad relationship break-up. I think that I have felt myself to be unworthy and undeserving of being pretty again, especially since I haven't been in a serious relationship since then. Right now, I'm in the boat where I believe and know that I need to make some drastic life changes. This includes possibly even moving to another state to get out of the rat race and get back to who I really am inside and being happy again. It means getting my photography website up and running so that eventually, I can turn that into a full-time business. It means feeling better about myself so that I can meet someone wonderful and have a family of my own. And it means getting healthy so that I'll be around a long time to enjoy this new life I want for myself.

When I lost the weight before, I did much of what other people here said to do. The problem was that I didn't stick with it. Definitely break your meals down into several a day. Give up the soda completely, if you can. I'm not going to tell you to give up the Crystal Light stuff, because I was still able to lose the weight before and all I drank was Crystal Light or plain water. Drinking just plain water can actually make me nauseous at times, so the flavored drinks help. It didn't make me crave sugar any more than I did before, but then everyone is different. Yesterday, was actually my first step towards eating better, and I'm happy that I did pretty well at it. I'm thinking in terms of baby steps, and I'm optimistic that this time, I can make it work on a more permanent basis.

I commend you for writing this blog. Although I don't know you personally, I am really impressed and really proud of you. You have a lot of people here who believe in you, but the most important thing is that you believe in yourself and when you need words of encouragement, you only have to come here or post on your blog, and your loyal followers will offer them freely. I wish you all the best!!!

[Coreene]

CNVH, you babe! You go, girl!

OP, I have also bookmarked your page. I am THRILLED for you, what a great way to start a super new year.

Whether people lose it with Weight Watchers, low carb diets, gastric bypass, HCG or whatever, rock and roll! It's all good!

[indyblue]

I don't want to hijack either, so I won't respond to your clear attempt to get me embroiled in one of your little tirades. Suffice it to say that not only do I ride him (sometimes), but I'd give him hock injections if he needed it too.

Well take my little tirade and supersize it.Poor horse.

[indyblue]

Sorry OP.I will now stay on topic.
By the way you have a great writing style.

[Eireamon]

Hats off to you. I have added you to my blog list and will go along for the ride with you!

Good Luck.

[nhwr]

I don't have a problem with heavy riders. It is the denial about what is going on that I have a problem with. Being fat means there is a significant part of your body you can't influence. Fat literally flops around and it is unfair to refuse to consider what that does to your horse. Using 20% of a horse's weight as a rule is just silly because it doesn't account for flopping :lol:

Many fat people are good at denial. I was. I had to be or I would have wept every time I looked in the mirror. I think what RCF is doing is great because she is determined not to be in denial. You can tell by her blog, her pics ... everything. She is looking right at the problem that needs to be tackled.

We are lucky for her willingness to share :yes:

[Trevelyan96]

Congratulations! This is an awesome undertaking and you have every reason to be super proud of yourself.

Having working in health care in the past, with a best friend who is a dietician, there is only one piece of advice I would offer, and hopefully it is also viewed as encouragement.

BE KIND TO YOURSELF: The best way to lose weight is by eating sensibly and incorporating moderate exercise, but don't beat yourself up if you occasionally miss a day of exercise or can't resist the temptation of a brownie. It's OK. The goal is to re-train yourself into healthy habits without making yourself feel deprived and miserable.

You'll have peaks, valley's, and plateaus, but as long as you keep a healthy outlook, which from your first post looks to be an excellent motive, you'll get there, and we'll all be cheering you on every step of the way!

[Ambrey]

So now that you are no longer heavy, is there anything you do that adversely impacts your horse? Do you consider it, meditate on it, and let it eat away at you? Is the time you spend not considering it time spent "in denial?"

Today I spent an hour at the stable. In one arena there were 2 consecutive jumping lessons going on. Many of those school horses are "serviceably sound" older horses. There was someone giving what may have been a novice niece/nephew a lesson in a muddy turnout. At least 10 horses that were being ridden by less than perfect riders and less than optimal conditions. Were they all in denial as well?

[MistyBlue]

RCF (and CNVH)...stick around on Coth here. Don't just post on the weight threads, join the group on all the forums. The folks here are good at keeping spirits up and being supportive. Determination is what works and both of you seem to have it in spades.

Ambrey...for heaven's sake...the OPs name isn't "Ambrey."

FWIW...were any of those horses carrying 25% of their own weight in water balloons? Because regardless of what people prefer to think...carrying someone who has a lot of excess loose subcutaneous body fat is not the same as working in different types of footing or carrying a novice rider. Also, muddy footing dries up and is a short term issue. Newbie riders learn and find their balance, they don't remain newbies for long. They're also not doing anything demanding in terms of athleticism or balance for the horse...not many beginners are doing intricate dressage movements.
If something that may be detrimental to a horse's long term well being can be changed...why not just change it? Especially if it benefits the person as much as the horse...if we demand specific healthy diets and exercise programs for our horses then we should practice the same for the humans sitting on them. This is a sport where we sit on an animal...no matter how "light" we think we ride, we will *never* actually hover in/over the tack and our animals are being forced to bear whatever weight we plunk into the tack. And no matter how much "core fitness" we claim to have, the core doesn't help the horse out so much if everything wrapped around the core is loose and moving without control.

CNVH...gastric bypass is definitely not the easy way out. It doesn't magically make weight disappear or change your eating habits for you. The person who gets the surgery still does all the hard work to lose the weight. So good on you and if anyone says you took the easy way out, smack them one. ;)

[see u at x]

I made the decision to have gastric bypass surgery in December 2006, which, thank god, my insurance covered. Best decision I have ever made in my life... I'm not trying to tell you you should do this; a lot of people will probably say I took the easy way out, but I couldn't give two hoots what anyone else thinks-- I couldn't risk another round of yo-yo dieting, likely fail, and put on even MORE weight. Failing even one more diet would have been a death sentence, so I did what I felt I had to do.


My best friend had gastric bypass surgery, which is why I changed my diet 5 years ago so that she wouldn't have to go at it alone. I can vouch for you that it is NOT the "easy way out". Not by any stretch of the imagination. My best friend struggled and continues to struggle with her weight, partially because she actually needs to have a second surgery since something needs to be redone with her first one.

You look great and your horse is adorable. :yes:

[charlieo]

Thank you, OP, for being so committed to change. After reading this thread, and your blog, I have made the commitment to begin this journey with you. I ride, not as often as I would like, and have been reasonably successful in deluding myself into thinking that I could still do everything while 100 lbs overweight. I no longer have a choice. I am no longer young, and the cardiologist warned me to get serious about weight loss, (or else) and I have considered what he had to say and realized I no longer have an "out". I was dreading this journey, as I have never been successful at weight loss, and that goal is so far up the mountain, but it certainly helps to know that there are others out there , like me, who have set a goal and intend to meet it. I will be reading your blog daily, and cheering you on.

[Go Fish]

CNVH - you are drop dead gorgeous...congratulations!

[ann kitchel]

There is a great health and wellness program out there. www.isagenix.com
I lost 15 pounds in a month......the object is to eat right. Very good system for the long haul..........
Ann Kitchel
www.huntingtonfarm.com

[quietann]

OP -- best wishes! I think you're doing an admirable thing.

I've lost about 25 pounds in the past year or so, no particular "program" other than lots of riding! When I was returning to riding (and 165 pounds or so), I was amazed when various stables wanted me to ride a big sturdy draft cross because I was "too fat." I am short, and a nice sturdy 14 hand large pony or Mustang were quite fine with me, as was a 15.1 hand TB mare.

I will say though that having dropped some weight and built a lot of muscles, I definitely see a difference in my riding. My horse is smallish and was ridden by someone who's quite heavy for years... and yes, it *does* make a difference to the horse! (In this case, putting a smaller rider on her meant that she had all kinds of new ways to act up, which is part of the reason we went into training :lol: )

[ThatScaryChick]

I'll also be keeping track of your blog RogersChapelFarm. I too am looking to lose quite a bit of weight and am glad to have come across your post. :)

[doccer]

And just consort over the BB?? I want 60lb gone by june 1, 2009 (i'm currently around 220, and haven't ridden in 6 months either!!) Equine health issues, and now bitter north albertan winter....

Even just someone to talk with and not have chubby haters around - i have no time for negative people :D Don't like it don't look :D

The change in lifestyle and my body is for ME and only ME!

This pic is from 2007... but i'm basically the same shape :(

http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=2393298675&h=uSiY2&u=T0WQ8

So there's my face out there too... talk to ya soon

[JEN22]

RCF, thank you for having the courage to blog about your journey. I too have begun a very serious weight control plan, I hate the word "diet"...
I will now use your courage as inspiration. I also am losing my weight (50ish pounds) for my 2 year old baby girl and for my riding. I'm so pleased that those of us in this boat have each other.
So, as I sit here STARVING (kidding!) I will think of you! And I will jingle for you to give you as much strength as I can!
Congratulations girl! You are so beautiful! Inside and out!

Happy New Year!
Jen22

[CurlyLindsay]

You know, last time there was a big positive thread on weight loss a COTH dieter's mailing list was started for COTHers who wanted to chat about weight loss: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/cothdietpool/ It pretty much died immediately but I'd love to see it active. :D

[Ambrey]

I'd also like to recommend SparkPeople.com :)

[Joanne]

I'm not sure if anyone has mentioned this web site. It is great to track calories in and calories out, low carb, fat, etc. I track my diet on it. It's free, BTW.

www.fitday.com

[Hazelnut]

Maybe some of you are in my boat.

I'm on inhaled corticosteroids, with the occasional oral dose up to 60 mg/day. I need this to breathe, period. I have been successful in weaning myself to lower and lower doses, and am almost at the point with my asthma specialist, if I can keep from getting another bad bronchial bout, of trying to go off entirely (but keep the singulair, as it's a reactive asthma).

I also have a very weird schedule - since there's no family, I tend to eat on the run (if an experiment has to be finished, or things run tight between meetings/teaching, lunch goes out the window). I eat raisin bran crunch on my way to the barn. I bring a salad in each day, not overloaded with dressing, but the steroids have changed my metabolism. Part of it is lifestyle, which has made me very efficient at storing! But those steroids...can't live with 'em, can't live without 'em!!!

Is anyone else in the same boat? What worked for you?

Part of the problem is cardio issues - that can also set off my asthma. I'm doing Pilates, which has helped my core.

Any advice? from those who have succeeded in dealing with this?

DGRO,
Not to hijack, but I just heard a story on NPR about the use of singulair without the concurrent use of an inhaled steroid not being as safe due to the increased inflammation of the tissues causing increase reactivity etc....with higher incidence of serious asthma attack. You might want to look that up.

I also have asthma and deal with issues that you mention. PM me if you want to "chat".

[RogersChapelFarm]

Thanks for the fitday link. That is a keeper! I don't do so well to calculate it on my own so that is very helpful!

[cnvh]

Before my surgery, the last program I tried (and actually had a lot of success with-- I lost 80 lbs. in a little over a year) was something called TOPS. I'm pretty sure they have chapters all over the US... basically it's like WW, only a fraction of the cost-- membership is $25 a year and weekly dues are small-- maybe a dollar? Anyway, you do whatever weight loss program works for you (they recommend an exchange diet but you can do whatever), but the best/most helpful part is that you attend a weekly weigh-in and support group meeting. Having to go and get on the scale every week helps keep you on track, and the support groups are great for support (duh!). Meetings usually take place in church basements, rec centers, etc.

The only down-side, for me (in my late 20's) was that I was BY FAR the youngest person in attendance, so I didn't have a whole lot in common with everyone. But like they say in AA, "it works if you work it." :)

If you google TOPS, I'm sure you can search and see if there are any chapters near you. I highly recommend their program.

[rugbygirl]

yay OP! Way to empower yourself. I wish you the best.

My little anecdote/goal is thus:

I am about 30-40lbs above my "fighting" weight (165-175lbs, I'm 5'10"). I used to play Rugby very competitively, as well as Wrestle and Kickbox (for reals, not the aerobics kind). That was two years ago, and ever since I've been living far up North working a busy schedule and only getting to see my horses every week or two (they are five hours away).

I want to slim down, lose all the bulk I've gained in the past two years and change my muscle tone and balance. Riding is a totally different sport than where I started my athletic career. Lots of focus on core strength, free weights, dynamic lifting and CARDIO!


For me the trick is to have good food available while I travel for work and to the "home base". Pre-packaging simple, easy to eat meals to have on the run helps a lot!

[Mozart]

The way I see it, you have a lot of things in your favour as you embark on this battle.

1. You eat out a lot.
You will see a big difference by just making healthy food and eating dinner at home. Restaurant food (except for maybe Japanese) is crazy high in fat, sodium, carbs and the portions sizes are insane. Even if you only made that one change, I'll bet you will see a big difference. If you are not a fan cooking, I would recommend searching out healthy easy tasty recipes either on the internet or in cookbooks. My friends and I are big fans of the cook books by the Podleski sisters, Greta and Janet. They are published in Canada but I'm sure you could search them out on e-bay or Amazon. The last two in particular are very good, "Crazy Plates" and "Eat, Shrink and be Merry". The first in the series "Looneyspoons" is a bit hit and miss. But "Crazy Plates" is amazing.

None of the recipes are hard, the ingredients are easy find and the results..mmmm...

You need to plan ahead, if you wait until 5:00 p.m. you won't make good choices. I usually make a meal plan about a week ahead and write down what I will make for dinner every day. Then make your grocery list and shop accordingly, that will keep you out of those dangerous "inner aisles"

Also, I check what I am making the day before, that way I won't forget to take something out of the freezer or if I need to marinate something or pick up a last minute ingredient.

If you love to eat out keep it an occasional thing. Eat half of what they bring you and if you think you won't be able to stop at half ask the server to put half in a doggy bag right away.


2) You are home with a child who probably loves to get out in the stroller. Get a jogging type stroller and hit the trails. You don't need to run, just walk quickly. With the all terrain type of stroller you can go "off roading" and go on some outdoor adventures.

Also, think of what you are modelling for your child. You want her to live a long healthy happy life too, now is the time to teach her a lifestyle of exercise and healthy eating.


3) You're young (well, you look young at any rate). Now is the time baby, as noted by others, it gets harder the older you get. Also, if you are planning to add another little household member, in your current situation you are at risk for hyper-tension, gestational diabetes, infertility, etc. Also, a life time of obesity will take a toll on your joints. If you decide to get serious about it later in life you will find it much much harder to do cardio exercise that is not weight bearing. Ask me how I know this.....

4) You live somewhere where you can be outdoors and active all year round (okay, maybe not in summer, but for most of the year,right?)

5) You seem to have a supportive husband. It is a lot easier if your partner is in on this with you. Much, much easier. If he really really wants a treat in the house, hopefully there is something he likes and you can leave alone. Ours is Maple Walnut ice cream. I hate it. Maple Walnut ice cream is safe from me. Baked goods in general and cookies in particular....they have magical power over me...they must not cross the threshold.

Oh and learn from my mistakes...do not fall into the trap of thinking "but I have a child...I need to have some fun food in the house" Your child will survive a childhood without Oreos. Mine has had to. I can, however, ignore Dare Bearpaw cookies. Maybe because they are individually wrapped in twos. Opening up a package for myself seems so much more of a commitment than sneaking a cookie from an open bag.

I think the key is "know thyself". Examine where your pitfalls are going to be and brainstorm around them.

Best of luck OP, I will check your blog as well.

Oh, and one more thing. You really need to re-think the diet soft drink thing (pop for the Americans). They are evil. Aside from the chemicals they will deplete you of much needed calcium. You will literally pee away any calcium you are taking in. Seriously, ditch the diet coke. Not worth it. And watch the juice, it is basically liquid sugar without the fibre (fibre makes you feel full) benefit of the actual fruit.

Beverages of choice: water or skim milk. Lately though, I am feeling the need for bubbles. So I have been drinking some club soda (low sodium) with a wedge of lime. After a while, diet soft drinks will seem sickeningly sweet. Amazing, but true.

[baylady7]

Lots of good advice from folks here. Know that YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!! This is one of the hardest things to do. I echo the advice to kick the soda habit, or at least limit it to one diet coke a day and ONLY after you drink your 64+oz of water. I am working with a bariatric doctor (weight issue doctor) and that helps alot. I have been both ends- anorexic basically and now overweight. So I am working to *slowly* but sanely take off the pounds that accumulated over 14 years of working too much and not being selfish for myself and my health. It is HARD!!! But take each day at a time and do NOT give up. If you cannot ride, try long lining your horse. I took mine out the other day on his long lines and I need to step out to keep up with him and his long strides. A good, safe workout activity. The barn is very helpful to keep you busy and away from bad food.
Feel free to PM me if you want the name of my doctor. We use no pills, just old fashioned diet and exercise. She is part of a team along with my primary care physician, personal trainer, friends and co-workers who are HELPING me by supporting me. You are fortunate that you also have supportive household as well. Keep it up!!!

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

I hope the thread stays active, it serves as a reminder!

Hazelnut, thanks for the input. I'll check it out.

Best wishes to everyone on this journey - hope I don't fall by the wayside! I would like to do this for me, as well as for Ted's back.

[mortebella]

I am going to excerpt here from the most sensitive and insightful article I ever read on this subject, because, following some of the discussion here, it is possible to focus only on weight as an issue and forget that in fact it is also a riding aid. Apart from this, I am not entering any debate; I think that should be confined to a spin off thread. The article of this title was published in Saddle & Bridle magazine, April '03, written by Bonnie Perreault.

"I have a humbling memory of a female dressage instructor who I worked with, who was often the brunt of unkind remarks made by other professionals, including myself, because of her size. This person rode with a prominent instructor/trainer from the the famed Spanish Riding School during a clinic being held in this country. I had never seen my instructor ride before and it was an eye opening experience as to what elegance, in any size package can be, and just what the weight aid can produce for performance. I watched as the horse in training was put through suppling movements and the Austrian instructor kept demanding more from the rider. As each movement was accomplished it became more and more apparent to me that range of motion has nothing to do with your size and that because of her weight and fitness my instructor was able to give a more definitive aid. The culmination of the lesson was reached when the rider was able to achieve flying lead changes every several strides from a horse that had only been schooling simple changes. Although she was large, my instructor knew what she was doing, knew when to do it and could achive it with elegance. I learned a lot about respect that day. Hopefully, I've made my point here as well."

Physical fitness is essential for riding. Muscle tone and balance are crucial. Fitness will address excess weight. Whatever else is there is what nature built. And anybody who's got anything to say about that is expressing their own prejudices, nothing more. Be fit. Ride well. Rock on. ;)

[indyblue]

Its a shame the horse couldnt write an article as well.Wouldnt it be good to know what his take on the ride was and how happy he would of felt if you told him that this would be his 'forever' rider.

[mortebella]

Indyblue, how about you and I and whoever else wants to take this onto another thread where it belongs? :D

[indyblue]

Agreed.Its an interesting debate that I feel strongly about but I will try shutup on this thread.Its New Years Day here and Im starting yet another resolution to keep my eating in check.I will go for a walk today but its about 90% humidity so Im really going to have to kick myself into action.
Something I find really important is to measure yourself as well as weigh.Some weeks you lose inches and no weight.How that happens I dont know LOL

[RogersChapelFarm]

Once again thank you all. I am reading all of the posts here as well as comments on the blog and it helps me immensely to just keep thinking about what I am doing and why. I know a ton about dieting and yet I am not one that has always tried to diet. I wasn't motivated to do anything-I just didn't care about my weight. I will put most of my details on the blog and I will begin to respond more directly to alot of the issues that have come up here. I just get started writing and I need to sort of give some history first so you know where I am coming from. Eating is an emotional issue for me I know so who I am is because of what I have been through-mentally and physically. I hope it doesn't seem like a pity party. I just don't want to waste all that I accomplished earlier when I was riding. I have always been one to go get whatever I want. Now I have admitted I want this so now I have to do it!

[RogersChapelFarm]

Oh and about the recommended site http://www.fitday.com VERY cool. Free. Tracks calories, exercise, mood and measurements! I signed up. THANKS!

[meupatdoes]

I will definitely be reading your blog!

If it inspires you, the guy from the mailroom at work has managed to lose 225 pounds solely through diet and exercise. Right before the holidays he sent an email around, completely in shock, that some of the partners had called him into a conference room, congratulated him on his hard work and success, and presented him with a sizable check for a new wardrobe. I only wish I had known they were going to do that so that I could have been at the 'ceremony' to congratulate him in person!

Pedro is wonderful, and if he can do it, you can do it!

[AlwaysHopeful]

just wanted to chime in a little more support! i'm not seriously overweight, but i'm seriously out of shape and i'm a teenager with skinny friends. i'm hoping to lose 10-15lbs, but mainly i just want to lose my fat and gain muscle tone.

i'm making my small goals though, i want to lose 5lbs in january through running.

[KarenRO]

Christie,

Kudos for realizing that you need to lose weight in order to achieve your goals. However, in reading your blog, I am concerned that you are setting yourself up for failure with the focus on calories and serving sizes. The problem with any diet is that you will always feel deprived - you need to embark on a permanent lifestyle change. I suggest you look at the Paleo Diet website (http://www.thepaleodiet.com/). Your entire family can make the change with you. Veggie, fruits, lean meats - no dairy, no grains, no processed stuff.

I am in my early 50s and while slim, I had noticed that I was putting a lot of flab around my middle this past year and for the past 4 or 5 years, I had trouble sleeping, had acid reflux and IBS. I started the Paleo Diet on June 11 and within 3 weeks, I noticed that my stomach no longer bloated after eating, that the heartburn was gone and I was sleeping like a log. Over the summer, I dropped 13 pounds and now weigh what I did in highschool. The flab is gone from my mid-section. If I eat processed food (i.e., cookies, bread, pasta, yogurt), my stomach immediately bloats up. I do not feel deprived, I am not hungry, I feel good. I still eat out once or twice a week but do not binge (i.e., a hamburger with lettuce and tomato at Ruby Tuesdays or a Japanese bento box minus the tofu and rice). My husband follows the diet also but still sneaks a Little Debbie snack cake occassionally.

I think you will find changing how you eat easier than counting calories and worrying about serving sizes. Read through the website and let me know what you think! KarenRO

[Equibrit]

You could get folks to sponsor you by the pound lost, and donate the proceeds to your favourite charity/horse rescue ?

[FancyFree]

I started the Paleo Diet on June 11 and within 3 weeks, I noticed that my stomach no longer bloated after eating, that the heartburn was gone and I was sleeping like a log.

My friend did that diet, though she called it The Caveman Diet. She lost ten pound, I think, maybe more. But she said it was very detoxifying for her body. I would try it but I have to have my raisin English muffin every morning. The rest of the day, I try to go caveman. Protein, fruits and vegetables. Getting the water in is one of the hardest things I've found.

[nhwr]

Equibrit,

I think that is a great idea! I would definitely support it.

What do you think, CRF? Do you have any ideas for a charity?

[RogersChapelFarm]

If you read my day four post you will see that I had an AHA moment and mentioned the Equestrian Aid Foundation. That is who I turned to initially and I am very grateful for their existance for people like me who worked with horses for years with no insurance. I don't know how something like that is structured any ideas anyone?

[Equibrit]

EAF; http://www.equestrianaidfoundation.org/
There's always; http://sunkissedacres.com/


"King's Ransom" http://chronicleforums.com/Forum/member.php?u=107770 ran a marathon and did the sponsorship thing - maybe she could give you some pointers ?

[RogersChapelFarm]

I know people don't cross check out of their dicipline but I posted on the dressage board about wanting to lose 100 lbs in order to get fit to ride again. I also listed a link to my blog that I just started that is all about it. Please check it out if you are interested or would like to join me. I am trying to make myself accountable for staying on the diet by being super public. Thanks! Happy New Year-Let's get those resolutions going!
http://flyingchangesweightloss.blogspot.com

[RogersChapelFarm]

I know people don't cross check out of their dicipline but I posted on the dressage board about wanting to lose 100 lbs in order to get fit to ride again. I also listed a link to my blog that I just started that is all about it. Please check it out if you are interested or would like to join me. I am trying to make myself accountable for staying on the diet by being super public. Thanks! Happy New Year-Let's get those resolutions going! http://flyingchangesweightloss.blogspot.com

[cavalli]

I fortunately don't have to worry about my weight, but I just wanted to send you my best wishes for a succesful diet in the new year. If you ever feel like you need someone to talk to, contact me before you reach for the food.I am a very good listener especially if you want to talk about horses, dog, cats ect.

Manuela

[joharavhf]

YOU GO GIRLFRIEND!!!!!! I read your blog and I am on your side. I don't have 100+ to lose - but I would like to lose about 50. Thanks for writing your blog and being so open :D

[Lori B]

RCF, I don't need to go that far, but certainly more than 10 lbs. And I'm trying to manage type II diabetes to boot.

When I've successfully taken off weight, I seriously ramped up the exercise, first a ton of walking as fast as I could, then morphing to jogging, combined with the typical and expected dietary improvements -- much fewer snacks and carbs, more fruit, nothing fried, and the hardest (to me) portion control.

Different things work for different folks, but that said, a first thing in the morning exercise routine can be a real winner for a couple reasons -- it will help you feel like you're getting started right each day you do it, it changes what you are hungry for, and I think it kick-starts your metabolism too. A good exercise habit will improve your sleep, which they say can be important for weight management too.

Good luck, it is so hard, but you will be happy to succeed, even half way. I find it hard to get enough other exercise when I'm riding or at the barn a lot, simply because the barn is such a crazy time-eater. Take care and keep us posted!

[specialK]

I admire your willingness to share, what must be an incredibly painful experience, with the rest of us. We'll cheer you on!

[Mariesonny]

Just wanted to add another good luck to you message. Congratulations for recognizing a problem and setting on a course toward fixing it.

I'm looking forward to seeing pictures of you up on a horse!

[oldenburger with fries and a cold beer]

You have a pm!!

[MissIndependence]

PM me if you need moral support. I had a gastric bypass 7 years ago and lost 180 pounds to start riding again. BEST thing I ever did. It's not for everybody - but for me it was literally and figuratively a life saver. Good luck to you! You can do it....and believe me when I tell you - it's worth every bit of lifestyle changes you have to make to make it work.!!!!

[oldenburger with fries and a cold beer]

WOW!!! MIssIndependence that is incredible!!! What an amazing accomplishment!! You are a very brave person!! That diamond tiara is on the way!!! Good for you!! Happy New Year!!

[twnkltoz]

Good for you for wanting to make a change! I need to lose about 50, although I am able to ride now (some people would disagree, but that's OK). I lost 24 over the past year, and I kind of stalled out for a while. Now I am re-energized! Here is my blog, I and I would love some readership and suupport as well: www.jenniferdiets.blogspot.com

My favorite diet, and it is really a lifestyle change if I could just maintain my willpower, is the Sonoma Diet. Healthy, balanced, logical, delicious.

[juststartingout]

Another PM
and lots of support

[TSWJB]

wow miss independence! i would never have thought that you had surgery and lost that much weight! you look great! and you look like you ride really well from your pictures!
what a great inspiration to the original poster!
and to the OP i saw your website. you have such nice horses and such great inspiration! you can do it too! good luck!

[Moderator 1]

We've merged the OP's different threads on the subject into one and moved it to Off Course.

Thanks and good luck!
Mod 1

[RogersChapelFarm]

Thank you all for helping me out and I hope that anyone who would like to join in will let me know! The support of a group will help us get to our goals!

[silver2]

Maybe some of you are in my boat.

I'm on inhaled corticosteroids, with the occasional oral dose up to 60 mg/day. I need this to breathe, period.
Dude! Thank you........

.......now I know why I have gained 20 POUNDS this month and none of my clothes fit. I was having a major problem with mold in my old house so my doctor gave me a steroid inhaler which I used for most of December. I have weighed roughly the same my entire adult life and could. not. figure. out. where the weight was coming from this past month. I literally gained about 3" around my waist in 3 weeks! Do you know how much money I've spent on pregnancy tests this month? ;)

I moved and have stopped taking the inhaler (yay for breathing!), hopefully the weight will go away?? Or no?

I have to say the amount of energy I had when I was taking them was quite amazing.

[twnkltoz]

Hey, it might be easier than you think. I've lost 85 lbs since June.

This is me in May: http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/orderpage.aspx?pi=0EBK0070180009&po=9

230 lbs and 5'3--seeing these pictures made me realize I had to do something.

And this is me in November--155 lbs: http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/orderpage.aspx?pi=05MP004W050044&po=44

It's been an uphill battle (I'm lazy and I really like to eat!) but not nearly as hard as I thought it would be. I eat pretty much all the time, but mostly fruit/ vegetables, and I run about 25 miles/ week. And I'm a size 10. I can buy riding clothes off the rack, for the first time since middle school. When I got carded at the liquor store last week, the clerk refused to believe my drivers license photo was me.

Absolutely amazing! Congratulations!!!

[twnkltoz]

Here's a little diet humour for you! http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/816287/lose_weight_fast_with_the_ultimate.html?cat=5

[Thomas_1]

Sounds to me like you're focussed, have the motivation and knowledge and awareness so

GO GIRL

[thatmoody]

Thanks again - I joined FitDay thanks to your recommendations. We also just had a barn move so the extra activity should help, too. We were in a partial care barn and we're now self-care, so I'm rotating feeding duties and upping my weekly lesson count. Thanks for updating the blog, and for providing me with the motivation to lose the weight for my own sake!

I have two horses - a 16 HH TB gelding (I posted pictures of him earlier) who has no problem carrying me, and I just acquired a 16.2 Friesian stallion (huge boned) who had to have hernia surgery. It will be a few months before he is rideable, so my goal is to lose 30 or so pounds so that I can show him and not stress his midsection. He's easily able to carry me (and was before the hernia operation) but it's a good motivation for HIS health, as well.

[DeeThbd]

You know, last time there was a big positive thread on weight loss a COTH dieter's mailing list was started for COTHers who wanted to chat about weight loss: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/cothdietpool/ It pretty much died immediately but I'd love to see it active. :D

I'M IN.
Shall we form a clique, ladies and gents? :D
Dee

[Rallycairn]

Ok, I've joined the Yahoo group, and I want to support RogersChapelFarm's blog, too. Let's do it!

See you on the Yahoo group!

[fabuleux]

I haven't read all the replies yet, but I will be doing so in the next little bit.


I am only 16, and I am 5'3. I weigh close to 170, I think it was 168 last time I checked? I have always had huge muscular legs, but since I have cut down on riding so much I feel like they are just flabby. Same with my stomach.

I have tried to run, but my ankles swell up to the point where I cannot stand to move anymore. I do have a job walking a dog so I walk at least an hour 3 times a week, and I try to keep it at a brisk pace. I also jump rope in front of the tv when I get hungry or restless. I do drink a lot of water- at least 9 glasses a day.

I am a very very picky eater so this is the hardest part for me. I do not like any beef or many veggies. I will eat broccoli and chicken. :) I like mandarin oranges and clementines and such. Anyone have any food ideas I should try? I just hate getting stuck with pasta!

[carolprudm]

I second EQTrainer: The real issue is looking after your health, not getting hung up on appearance.





I've lost about 25 lbs in the last year....3 lbs were due to my breast reduction surgery :D I've been able to cut my BP meds by 75% and in a few months may be able to get off them altogether. I have been able to control my blood glucose levels without meds.

OP, have you had your blood glucose levels teste? High levels can really mess up a diet.


I would like to lose 20 more lbs by sept and wear my white breeches in a recognized show and another 20 after that.

[equineartworks]

If I walk, and I mean just walk or stay on my feet, I can lose piles of weight and keep it off and not worry about what I eat. The minute I sit? POOF! I turn into a weeble.

The weather here is so dreadful and we live in the suburbs so sidewalks are non-existant. I walk the trails at our farm when possible with the Dumply man and DD and the dogs, but eeeks! Not when it is 15 degrees with 40 mph winds...too cold! So I had DH bring in the old treadmill and I have been using that every morning.

I would like to lose 20 pounds by late spring. I have no desire to be a twig again, but I would like to be less weeble-like. :lol:

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

How do I get on the yahoo group? I am so clueless.

[RogersChapelFarm]

I am also one that would love breast reduction! Even when I was thin I had trouble with that especially for riding. I would double up sports bras that were very small creating the uniboob effect. If I lose the weight and could afford it I would likely fix the boobs before the belly because I know they will get smaller but they were always large! Good for meeting men-maybe the wrong men! But terrible for riding and fitting in a dressage coat. That's the other issue big women have that big men don't is all the extra boobage.

[RogersChapelFarm]

Oh and as far as health checks so far so good surprisingly. I am going again this month to get checked out. I had gestational diabetes and the diet for that was great for me.The thought of having a big baby scared the crap out of me-I was already afraid of childbirth. I have high BP and diabetes in my family so I know about the issues. I will get a full work up though.

[twnkltoz]

I haven't read all the replies yet, but I will be doing so in the next little bit.


I am only 16, and I am 5'3. I weigh close to 170, I think it was 168 last time I checked? I have always had huge muscular legs, but since I have cut down on riding so much I feel like they are just flabby. Same with my stomach.

I have tried to run, but my ankles swell up to the point where I cannot stand to move anymore. I do have a job walking a dog so I walk at least an hour 3 times a week, and I try to keep it at a brisk pace. I also jump rope in front of the tv when I get hungry or restless. I do drink a lot of water- at least 9 glasses a day.

I am a very very picky eater so this is the hardest part for me. I do not like any beef or many veggies. I will eat broccoli and chicken. :) I like mandarin oranges and clementines and such. Anyone have any food ideas I should try? I just hate getting stuck with pasta!

Good luck! Don't eat pasta unless it's whole grain. All of your carbs should either be whole grain, a little fruit, and tons of veggies. Nothing white--no white potatoes, bread, etc. Low fat meats. No fruit juice--too high in sugar. Do NOT starve yourself, tempting though it may be--it screws up your metabolism. Just eat healthy foods in small portions throughout the day. It's better to eat 5-6 small meals than 2 or 3 big ones.

[FancyFree]

It's better to eat 5-6 small meals than 2 or 3 big ones.

I agree. I cook a tray of chicken pieces and boil a bunch of eggs. So if I get hungry I can grab a bit of protein with a small salad.

Drink your water! That's very difficult for me, but it helps keep you feeling full. Great for the skin too.

[Woodland]

I am jumping in here I have lost a tremendous amount of weight. After trying so many other things. I started this in 1997 and lost 65 pounds. My Husband has lost over 100 pounds. It has given us back our lives and our health.

I was misdiagnosed with fybromialgia and lups. The medications and inactivity caused me great harm. Desperate to not look fat in my casket I tried everything! Then someone who owed me money on a horse deal paid me in the products I now sell. I was so pissed at her at the time! But then they worked OMG THEY WORKED!

I got my life back. I was able to ride and work and walk and enjoy FUN again!

Here is a link to my site if it can help you like it helped me then GREAT! If not thanks for looking!

http://www.loseweightnow.com/heidihenry

PS I RARELY share this on horse boards as my weight is a very private matter in my life and I hate to "solicit" But I do not know how else to share the news!

If you flip through the testimonials there are pictures of me.

[RogersChapelFarm]

I have an easy food to share

I get simple frozen chicken breasts-thaw in microwave for like 2-3 min or buy fresh. I do frozen and thaw just one/two as needed. Cut into strips or chunks and put in frying pan warmed with a drizzle of olive oil. I love the Creole seasoning mix on the chicken first if you like spicy and stir fry/cook til lightly brown for my taste.

I also found these great Green Giant frozen veggie mixes with cheese sauce. It has 45 calories and 1g fat per serving They come in several varieties. Hadn't seen these before-may be new. Microwaves in the bag in 5-7 minutes.

I like to mix these together. Even hubby said it was yummy! EASY!!! Low cal -low fat even for a bigger portion. Like 8 oz chicken and 2/3 bag veggies is 260+90=350 calories and 10g fat and thats a big ole plate of food not a little Lean Cuizine meal.

I have been entering all the nutitional information into fitday.com for custom foods as needed and weighing the meat and using a measuring cup instead of estimating. Haven't done that before but I am actually allowing myself more instead of less since I am accurately counting I found out that I had room in the diet for a larger portion sometimes so I am not starving and going off the diet.

Snacks: I like almonds(28 is serving size) and 100 calorie packs of kettle corn

[Mariequi]

I lost my truck, my job, my finances, some family - in 2008. The only thing I needed and wanted to lose was weight! I hope to gain some of those this year, but other than that loseeeeeeeeeeeeeee some of this weight finally. For me and Dub.

[CamsMom]

RCF, thank you, thank you, thank you! I have been following your blog and wish you only the best success! While I am not brave enough to start a blog of my one, I hope to be able to one day share my success with my family and friends.

I am older, over 50, so I know it's going to be tough, but I am DETERMINED! I am taller, 5'10", so my 240 lbs don't show on me as much as it would on someone smaller. I have been unhappy with my weight for years, and if I don't do something about it now, I probably never will. I have been incredibly lucky with my health, and have no major issues. My goal? To FINALLY ride my mare! I haven't ridden seriously in many, many years, and never competitively. My wonderful DH bought me my first horse when I was 48 and I have ridden her exactly TWICE. I have talked to my DD's trainer, and when I lose enough weight to feel comfortable riding, I will be taking lessons (without DD's knowledge!).

I have joined the Yahoo group as well, and I know if we all stay strong and encourage each other, we can ALL accomplish our goals!

[eyesontheground]

I don't know how I missed this thread for so long but I am trying to do the same thing right now. I rode, gained weight, rode, and finally stopped for a combination of reasons. I would love to get back on a horse with confidence.

My mom and I just started this week. We have a great cookbook that we have been cooking out of. Everything has been really tasty.

http://www.amazon.com/Schwarzbein-Principle-Cookbook-Diana/dp/1558746811/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1231051607&sr=8-1

I think we have already learned alot about portion control. The only problem so far ;-) we had to spend ALOT of money at the grocery store to get the right kinds of food in the house.

I have signed up for fitday as well and it was pretty cool to see how few calories I ate today (but in a healthy way!). My fav graph was the calories consumed vs calories burned graph.

I hope to start riding again soon. I have not ridden regularly in three years (and even then it was once a week lessons for six months and before that it was three years). I have not even been on a horse in over six months and I miss it. Even during my non-riding times I tried to stay active at a friends barn. There are always noses to kiss, withers to scritch, stalls to clean, and shows and inspections to go to. These activites are what have kept me connected to what I have always loved. During these last few years I have learned more than I learned when I was riding everyday. Also, I feel like I want to know the why and how now instead of just working for a result (is this that thing called wisdom!!??) I can't wait to start riding again and put all of my new found knowledge to work!!

Everyday I get on COTH and read about all the cool things people are doing with their horses and I want that to be me again. I just wanted you to know that I am cueing for that flying change with you. I know we will end up cross firing or counter cantering at points but hopefully with all of us working together we can pick up and stay on the right lead.

Finally, I love all of your horses! I can wait to read more of the blog and get to meet them all!! If you need to talk or anything just PM or email me.

[RogersChapelFarm]

Today I am 7 lbs down....exhausted from the workout yesterday but going to do it again! Thanks again for your support and conrats to everyone who is losing along with me!

[Beasmom]

Good for you! Thanks for being an inspiration for others!

Off to shed my own excess Christmas poundage...

[Ambrey]

Today I am 7 lbs down....exhausted from the workout yesterday but going to do it again! Thanks again for your support and conrats to everyone who is losing along with me!

Go you!

[TinkerBells]

Maybe we can help each other OP!!!! I am trying to lose 100 lbs, and it's very hard for me to exercise because my joints hurt so badly with weight-induced arthritis.

I took myself off my horse in the fall because I found it so difficult to mount and dismount ... and it finally dawned on me that he's only 14 hands, around 800 lbs, so that disqualifies me from my own 20% weight rule!

Also, my horse has some training issues that need worked on, and I don't feel comfortable doing that because I'm not flexible/limber enough to get off in a hurry if needed.

ARGH

[ReSomething]

You GO girl. I'll be running on the Gazelle and thinking of you - I've got 20 or more pounds that I really don't need and I want to have the fitness to start jumping again, even if the horse I get is an easy trailriding critter.

[stryder]

it's very hard for me to exercise because my joints hurt so badly with weight-induced arthritis.

I

ARGH

People rave about water aerobics. The water provides buoyancy and resistance. Several of my larger and older friends take classes. Is that an option for you?

[TinkerBells]

People rave about water aerobics. The water provides buoyancy and resistance. Several of my larger and older friends take classes. Is that an option for you?

Actually, there is a place nearby that offers it. I should look into it, huh? :eek: Why didn't I think of that? :confused::lol:

Have you thought of doing this, OP?

[RogersChapelFarm]

I would love to do an aquatic class like that but I don't have anyone to take my 23 month old so I have to find things to do with her or during a nap. Thats also my only free time and time for horses as well since shes not old enough to play on her own. Hubby gets home late and the weekends are the only other time. I did my own water aerobics this summer. I bought an inexpensive above ground pool and could swim at nap or with Maren in a float. That worked well. I don't have arthritis but I do try and keep it low impact to avoid injury as I know my joints don't need it. It's just enough room in those pools to do water exercises not to "swim" as in laps.

I wrote on my blog about an old Jane Fonda Workout Book. It's very good especially when you are out of shape since you put on your own music or none(I like TV) and you can slow down as needed. It also has a beginner and advanced section. The beginner is only 5 min warm up with a short aerobic part- jog 20 counts, jumping jack 10 ct, jumping twists 10 ct,high step 10 ct, leg swing 10 ct.--it can be modified if you can't even do that much. The main point of that small part is to raise the heart rate. The rest of the workout is arms 4 min, waist 5 min, abs 4 min,legs 4 min, butt 2 min, cool down 3 min

total 27 min. and the other exercises are no impact after warm up. The advanced expands on the beginner. I did this book before and it is hard to begin with but doable unlike many workout DVD's that expect you to be running around when you are way out of shape.

[caffeinated]

RCF- Thanks for the inspiration :)

Reading this thread encouraged me to join fitday- even though I don't have a ton of weight to lose (just that pesky ten pounds, heh), I joined anyway and wow, seeing my diet broken down like that (even if for just one day) is a little scary. I always felt like I didn't eat that much, but now I see it's mostly carbs and fat. If nothing else, it can't be healthy... I should have logged on there ages ago.

FWIW, I think you're a lovely lady, and your motivation is contagious. I can't wait to see photos of you back in the tack and competing again :)

(and your daughter is just lovely, too!)

[TinkerBells]

Oh my gosh! :eek: I remember Jane Fonda Workouts! :winkgrin: I'll have to go to the library and see if they still have one still hanging around!

[RogersChapelFarm]

Yeah- I know I feel old as ^%#& bringing Jane Fonda up-but it is a classic-I found it on Ebay. I never like video workouts because they are boring and the music is iffy but the book was perfect for me. I originally used it when I was riding at a barn in Talahassee with Anne Ticehurst. She had this arena that was inside of an old church and I would take my book up in the front where there were mirrors mounted for riding and it was a raised area for viewing and do my workout each day. I got in great shape and dropped some extra pounds even back then when I wasn't all that heavy.

[TinkerBells]

I love the idea of finding an old rundown church and doing something like that with it! It would be so spiritual to me. Where in Tallahassee was it? I used to live there years ago.

Ok, back on thread. ;) I joined your blog ... it's wonderful! How hard is it to start and maintain something like that?

You have done an incredible thing, BTW, starting this thread. It took a lot of guts!

[RogersChapelFarm]

It's not hard to make or maintain the blog. I just signed up and it's on a template that makes it show up as it is and I take lots of pictures anyway. I added new photos just for the blog and uploading those to my computer from my camera takes the most time. Uploading them to the blog is fast and moving them around is just dragging and dropping them-very simple.

As for where in Tallahassee-I don't really remember any details to give you the location. It was called High Halden and Anne Ticehurst was an "I" judge. She was in her 70's back then and was a bit of a recluse. I almost never left the farm. I was 16 when I went the first time. Many moons ago!

[twnkltoz]

Today I am 7 lbs down....exhausted from the workout yesterday but going to do it again! Thanks again for your support and conrats to everyone who is losing along with me!
WOO HOO!!!!

[Lambie Boat]

if you want to get all retro, think about taking a Jazzercize class (or 4 a week) find a class nearby by going to www.jazzercize.com
they are affordable, a great workout and surprisingly loads of fun

[eyesontheground]

Yay! for you!! Keep up the good work!

[silver2]

RCF, my gym has a daycare that is free. The gym itself is $65/month but by God, I do not miss a scheduled day at that price.

Also for low impact folks (like me!), the bike, the elliptical and the rowing machine kick ass. I've had numerous knee surgeries so I'm stuck with low impact aerobic work and can attest to the kick-ass-ness of the rowing machine. Swimming is even better, but I find that you need a certain base level of fitness to swim more than one or two laps. Or I do anyway!

[TinkerBells]

RCF, you have a PM :D

[TinkerBells]

If I recall correctly, the YMCA has a "free" childcare center as well .... don't know if I would call it exactly free at those prices, but oh well. No offense to anyone who works at a YMCA :eek:

[RogersChapelFarm]

Only day ten and I am down 10 lbs and I am not starving or working out too hard! Thank you all for reading and commenting on the blog! Please contact me anytime thru PM or email. Would love to make new friends thru this and buddy up! Thanks, Christie

Anyone else having success?

[Hazelnut]

Hey, you are doing great. Slow and steady wins the race...great job on the Jane Fonda workout and the 7lbs.

Keep movin' into 2009 - one day at a time!

[TinkerBells]

Ten pounds?! Send some of that metabolism my way!!!! I'm lucky if I lose two pounds in a week. And that's with Weight Watchers .... and yes, I'm following it! :yes::winkgrin: Anyway, you're continuing to be an inspiration to me, so please keep it up! :D

[twnkltoz]

Ugh...I've been sick for days. Hard to diet and exercise when you're sick! I know, I know...excuses!!

[TinkerBells]

It's so nasty and cold here, it's hard for me to work up the oomph to visit the horses! They're out and loving it, but I still like the neglectful Mom! :cry:

Anyway, I'm going to the gym today and signing up for water aerobics! Wish me luck ... :D

RCF, I love your blog! Your daughter is just adorable! Your little pony is quite adorable, too .... :eek::winkgrin:;)

[TinkerBells]

bump

[RogersChapelFarm]

Update!

Its almost 90 days and I am down 30 pounds! I also got on and hacked my mare yesterday for the first time in a very very long time! I will be lunging her and continuing to lose some weight before I get back to riding seriously but I am still on track! I put new pics on the blog.

Thanks for all of your help and support! I have made a ton of changes in the last 90 days and I am still at it. This week I am increasing to 5 days of workouts. I am planning to walk twice a week with a group and kick box 3 days. I am also hoping to just keep hacking and walking a few days per week and I am well on my way to my free lesson with Robert Dover when I get to my goal ( Thanks again Robert for this inspiration!)

I jumped back into horses with the L program-perfect for me since I haven't been riding since my daughter was born but it gives me the intense involvement at a professional level like I had before. I am excited about the future again in a lot of ways and I couldn't/wouldn't have done it with out your help! And it all started with a Chronicle Forums post!

[Ride On]

GOOD FOR YOU!!!!!!!!!!!! Stay focused and your dream will come.

[Gayla]

YIPPEE! I am so glad to see you riding before you reach your goal! You look great on her and the riding will keep you motivated. :D:D

[MistyBlue]

Huge congrats...looking great!

[Beasmom]

Wonderful news! You're an inspiration to everyone!

When you get that free lesson with Mr. Dover, you HAVE to write about it!

[sickofcollege]

Highflyer

Congrats on your accomplishment! You did a great job :) I know losing that much weight is never easy. But, YOU did it!


Hey, it might be easier than you think. I've lost 85 lbs since June.

This is me in May: http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/orderpage.aspx?pi=0EBK0070180009&po=9

230 lbs and 5'3--seeing these pictures made me realize I had to do something.

And this is me in November--155 lbs: http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/orderpage.aspx?pi=05MP004W050044&po=44

It's been an uphill battle (I'm lazy and I really like to eat!) but not nearly as hard as I thought it would be. I eat pretty much all the time, but mostly fruit/ vegetables, and I run about 25 miles/ week. And I'm a size 10. I can buy riding clothes off the rack, for the first time since middle school. When I got carded at the liquor store last week, the clerk refused to believe my drivers license photo was me.

[twnkltoz]

What a wonderful update! Congrats and keep up the good work!

[Hoofprince in Mud]

Congratulations on the loss of 30lb, Rogers Chapel Farm.

However, we need to have a chat about the pictures of your dear wee daughter, Maren riding without a helmet on your blog.

Have you bought her a suitable one yet?

While you, as an adult, can make the choice for yourself on the matter of wearing a helmet, it gives you greater moral authority in directing your child to wear one if you set an example and wear one everytime you put your leg across a horse's back.

[Petstorejunkie]

I've lost 90 lbs, feel free to pm me

[Ozone]

Ok so the first step is to admit you have a problem. Well that's obvious so let me tell you what I am planning to do. I need to lose weight. I am a dressage rider who no longer rides. I know I am still a dressage rider inside! I was once very serious and very ambitious. Now I need to lose over 100 pounds. I want to ride again. I don't give a crap about skinny jeans or whatever. I want to stay alive for my daughter and I want to be an active rider again. I don't want any fat girl riding attacks now. I am not planning to ride any time soon. What I am planning to do is blog. I have never blogged before but I am doing it to use it as a journal and to make myself honest and accountable for my actions. I am posting this here so that you may police me if you so desire. I am in need of support and I need an audience for my blog to know that someone is paying attention to it and I can't just stop. I am asking you to be my Jenny Craig type counselor or whatever only for free! Did I say please? Ok so if you need to lose a little weight or alot please see my blog and help me out on this endeavor. I hope that oneday I will be my inner dressage rider again! http://flyingchangesweightloss.blogspot.com/

I just watch that Oprah episode as well. Made me think of my Grandmother was was 600 lbs. and I loved every single 600lbs. of her. She was my best friend and support and although I am a thinner person I feel like I can relate to you RogerChapelFarm through my grandmother.

First off BIG CONGRATS TO YOU!! You are doing great and are on your way to get back in the ring or go for that long desired hack with your lovely horse. When times are rough for you and your weight loss go outside and look at your horse and think I CAN DO THIS, I AM DOING THIS. That will be enough for that day... other days come here and we will be your support. I am so proud of you, truly I am. I look forward to you riding again and showing us pics of your and your horse! xoxo

[RogersChapelFarm]

I posted here at the beginning of the year and now I am 167 days into my journey to lose all this weight and ride again! I am missing riding even more now that I am pursuing the L program with USDF and spend enormous amounts of time at the shows. I have floundered about after dropping the first 30 pounds but I am still working out and am in far far better shape now! I also made it through the stress of buying our first property to be our mini-farm! So now I am absolutely determined to get my butt back into high gear and get moving. 3 of my friends have begun to write a blog too and have also posted their embarrassing before photos as well as showing some sucess! Anyone else having any luck? I was shooting for riding regularly as in seriously training again by the fall! I need some new motivation....whatya got?

[Pirateer]

Congrats! That is awesome!

[equusvilla]

I am not doing too well. I was hoping to lose 10 in 6 weeks. Only lost 2 and have 4 weeks to go.. :0(

I eat very well, just been very tired lately. Learning how to ride sidesaddle - which is more like yoga than aerobics!

[Gunnar]

I remember your original thread! Good for you for checking in! Hope your new min-farm is going well! That should help with your weight loss! For me exercise is the Key. I have gained 50 lbs in the last 5 years, mostly due to not really riding! Boy does that 50 lbs feel bad in the saddle. :eek::no: I am back to walking at least 5 days a week. The weight will come off if I continue that!:yes:

Good luck to you all! ;)

[MistyBlue]

hey good for you!
Now let's hear all about your new mini farm...that has to be really exciting!

[glfprncs]

I started my fitness and nutrition transformation a mere 70 days ago, utilizing a program called P90X. I have found that I have fallen in love with exercise, and more importantly, fallen in love with the strength that my body can provide to me. Each day is a journey, and there will be struggles along the way. I've found that rather than focusing on the 'magic number' on the scale, that I'm finding more success (and dropping more weight), my noticing the other changes in my body and fitness. I actually blogged about this last week on my fitness and nutrition blog: www.personalsweatequity.blogspot.com


When climbing the two flights of stairs at school, I no longer get out of breath.

The 'back fat' is now gone from my backside (woo hoo!).

I can walk and run in athletic shorts, and they no longer ride up between my inner thighs.

I have muscles that make my arms look seriously good.

The muffin top is missing from the top of my pants.

While out walking the dogs last week, we got caught in a HORRIBLE rain storm, and we ran a full-mile home, at speed, without stopping once.

I can now bust out about 110 pushups, with 50% of them on my toes. When I began, I could do 19 pushups, and NONE were on my toes.

I am down a full pant's size, and almost two.

So for me, it's the little things that keep me going, rather than seeing the number drop on the scale. It has dropped (about 17 pounds, last I checked), which makes me proud, but for me I've found that focusing on other things has allowed me to keep a healther, and more motivated outlook on my fitness journey.

Bravo to you for what you have accomplished thus far. It's a tremendous accomplishment...consider that you have already lost an ENTIRE bag of dogfood. Bags of dogfood are heavy, and you're no longer having to drag that around with you. That IS an accomplishment, and what you are doing is prolonging your life, and making you a healthier mom as well. It's all about investing in yourself, and my 'tagline' of late is about investing some 'sweat equity' into a healthier and fitter you. Keep pushing!

[Gunnar]

I started my fitness and nutrition transformation a mere 70 days ago, utilizing a program called P90X. I have found that I have fallen in love with exercise, and more importantly, fallen in love with the strength that my body can provide to me. Each day is a journey, and there will be struggles along the way. I've found that rather than focusing on the 'magic number' on the scale, that I'm finding more success (and dropping more weight), my noticing the other changes in my body and fitness. I actually blogged about this last week on my fitness and nutrition blog: www.personalsweatequity.blogspot.com (http://www.personalsweatequity.blogspot.com)


When climbing the two flights of stairs at school, I no longer get out of breath.

The 'back fat' is now gone from my backside (woo hoo!).

I can walk and run in athletic shorts, and they no longer ride up between my inner thighs.

I have muscles that make my arms look seriously good.

The muffin top is missing from the top of my pants.

While out walking the dogs last week, we got caught in a HORRIBLE rain storm, and we ran a full-mile home, at speed, without stopping once.

I can now bust out about 110 pushups, with 50% of them on my toes. When I began, I could do 19 pushups, and NONE were on my toes.

I am down a full pant's size, and almost two.

So for me, it's the little things that keep me going, rather than seeing the number drop on the scale. It has dropped (about 17 pounds, last I checked), which makes me proud, but for me I've found that focusing on other things has allowed me to keep a healther, and more motivated outlook on my fitness journey.

Bravo to you for what you have accomplished thus far. It's a tremendous accomplishment...consider that you have already lost an ENTIRE bag of dogfood. Bags of dogfood are heavy, and you're no longer having to drag that around with you. That IS an accomplishment, and what you are doing is prolonging your life, and making you a healthier mom as well. It's all about investing in yourself, and my 'tagline' of late is about investing some 'sweat equity' into a healthier and fitter you. Keep pushing!

That is my biggest problem with the weight gain! Now I carry around a bag of grain every step I take!! :o I have seen the p90X infomercials and it looks pretty good! Keep up the good work!:D

[millwrightmomma]

Congrats with the weight loss, did you plateau at -30, or is it just coming off slower now??
Continue with the exercise, muscle does weigh more than fat!!
Translate the loss into something positive, a smaller waist, shirt size smaller, 3 dress sizes smaller, something like that.

Try drinking a large glass of water 1/2 he before every meal or snack time. Add a twist of lemon or something if you like.

keep on trucking, you'll do it. :)

[tarynls]

I've been following your blog and just wanted to say you're doing great! Keep it up!

[Flash44]

You are doing great! I've always had to watch my weight because I'm very short. I have nowhere to hide extra pounds! My best tip is to only eat food that looks like what it is in it's natural state. Limit the processed foods to small amounts. Your diet should mainly consist of vegetables, fruits and meats (the leaner cuts!). Try to keep the starches to a minimum, and if you must have a treat, go ahead and have a few bites! If you can eliminate the white starches (bread, potatoes, rice, pasta) you will really see a change. You can't drink too much water. You are doing great, hang in there!

[KateKat]

I'm currently doing a program right now called Medifast and let me tell you...its been crazy successful so far. I'm nearing the end of my 6th week, and so far I've lost 21 lbs (at my last weigh day). Check it out and see if its something that inspires you...I know it inspired me because there are so many people out there that have had immense success. Basically it gets rid of the guesswork in eating. You are eating their foods, 5 out of 6 meals per day consisting of shakes, bars, oatmeal and soups. You consume between 800-1000 calories per day. It is a medically researched and recommended diet for people considered on the high side of overweight and obese. I admit it hasn't been a cake walk but its definitely been worth it.

GLF, after I'm done, I'm definitely going to check out the P90X(intensity it too high for my current food intake). I would love to see your before and current pics!

Oh and for the record people muscle does not weigh more than fat...it just takes up less room. A pound of muscle and a pound of fat are still a pound! :) Sorry, just one of those fitness sayings that people toss around that bugs me...

[Paragon]

Oh and for the record people muscle does not weigh more than fat...it just takes up less room.

That's the point of the saying. :lol: That it's possible to not lose numbers on the scale, but you can be reshaping your body and lose an inch or three.

Congratulations, guys, on your weight loss! I'm chipping away at my body shape, slowly but surely. You all inspire me!

[KateKat]

Yes, but a pound is still a pound, correct? You may gain a pound of muscle while losing a pound of fat and look trimmer and not have movement on the scale. But that doesn't mean the pound muscle is heavier! Its just much less voluminous LOL :)

[clivers]

Bravo to you for what you have accomplished thus far. It's a tremendous accomplishment...consider that you have already lost an ENTIRE bag of dogfood. Bags of dogfood are heavy, and you're no longer having to drag that around with you. That IS an accomplishment, and what you are doing is prolonging your life, and making you a healthier mom as well. It's all about investing in yourself, and my 'tagline' of late is about investing some 'sweat equity' into a healthier and fitter you. Keep pushing!


Well said!

[Paragon]

Yes, but a pound is still a pound, correct? You may gain a pound of muscle while losing a pound of fat and look trimmer and not have movement on the scale. But that doesn't mean the pound muscle is heavier! Its just much less voluminous LOL :)

You're summing up the point of the phrase while arguing that the phrase is untrue. :lol: By volume, muscle weighs more than fat. When we're talking about body aesthetics and fitness vs. numbers on the scale, that's significant.

Likewise, a pound of feathers will take a helluva lot more room than the pound of iron. I'd rather be made of iron than feathers. :lol: That's what it's about.

[Nojacketrequired]

The muffin top is missing from the top of my pants.

I found it and am keeping it warm for you. Please come and claim it anytime. ;)


A very smart medical friend of mine told me something once that has always stuck with me.

The first step of losing weight is to STOP GAINING.

Once you have held your weight for a period of time, like 90 days or so, THEN your body is likely more open to losing some.

If you are still gaining and suddenly go on a diet that restricts calories, your body is going to hold onto every ounce for as long as it can!

SO...first set a goal of not gaining. Get comfortable there. THEN set a goal of losing.

I did this in February, stabilized my weight for 3 months and have lost almost 10 lbs since, with small changes in diet. (And I'm a chef! Food is my life a minimum 10 hours a day....If I can do it....well, you know the rest!)


Congrats to all who are losing weight...AND to those who are stopping from gaining any more!

NJR

[Woodland]

My weight loss challenge group has lost 89 pounds in the last 6 weeks!!!! Most are equestriennes.

My link:
http://www.AGoodFit.com

There are free to nominal cost Weight Loss Challenge groups all over the world. Many are themed for like groups. Stay at home Moms, Motorcyclists, Horseback riders, etc. Support is KEY to success! And you can follow any program. My group offers open ride night here at my stables and includes Pilates warm up. PLUS we walk as a group three days a week. That constant support makes for success! In July we are starting a rider fitness boot camp - WOW i can hardly wait!!!

If you need help finding a group or want to start an online group contact me through my web site.

[luvs2ride79]

I have found Spark People web site helpful. http://www.sparkpeople.com It helps you track food and fitness, and has some great recipes and tips. I'm just getting back into losing weight myself. I still ride though; my mare is a trooper ;). I bought a treeless Bob Marshall saddle, specialized Skito treeless saddle pad (http://www.aretesaddlery.com/tack/tack/saddle-pads/skito-pads/treeless-skito-pad/prod_95.html), and a ThinLine pad (http://www.aretesaddlery.com/tack/thinline-pads/western-pads/western-rounded-skirt/prod_74.html). My horses is VERY comfy, even on long rides. I'm around 265-270 lbs right now (I'm 5'8" and wear a size 22/24) and this saddle and pad combo is SO comfortable for me and my horse is much happier, even compared with her professionally fitted western saddle and shock absorbing pads. She's light on her feet and really looks forward to our rides! Being able to ride is helping to increase my motivation.

[KateKat]

You're summing up the point of the phrase while arguing that the phrase is untrue. :lol: By volume, muscle weighs more than fat. When we're talking about body aesthetics and fitness vs. numbers on the scale, that's significant.

Likewise, a pound of feathers will take a helluva lot more room than the pound of iron. I'd rather be made of iron than feathers. :lol: That's what it's about.


I have to laugh because you and I are arguing the same thing. :) I think the saying should be "In terms of equal volumes, muscle weighs more than fat" or "fat is more voluminous than muscle". As it is though, the saying (with no mention of volume, just weight) just comes across as incorrect because when looking at actual weight/numbers on a scale, muscle does not actually "weigh" more. Thats what bugs me!

I shouldn't have brought it up and I won't say anything else about it because I don't want to detract from everyone's success at weight loss on this thread. Either way, getting rid of fat and gaining muscle is a good thing. Congrats and keep up the good work!

ETA: although I don't want to be fluffy, being full of feathers probably wouldn't be a bad thing for those falls of the tall objects we like to sit on...LOL!

[RogersChapelFarm]

Hi all! Thanks again for your responses! I am pleased with the loss that I have made but I know I got stressed out and fell back into some old patterns and I also didn't get to all of my boot camp sessions. I am trying to jump start my progress again. I have maintained and not gained back so that's been great but I still need to be more disciplined with my food and get to all my workouts. I bought an elliptical today and hope to make our new extra room a home gym. I need that more than a space to sit and watch TV or use the puter! Does anyone have a Wii Fit? Hubby would love to have the game anyway and I know just the bowling, tennis and boxing is some exercise...but anyone like the Wii fit?

[glfprncs]

KateKat---I have some pictures uploaded through my Beachbody page. Go to this link: http://beachbodycoach.com/nancyschwert and scroll down. On the left hand side, near the bottom, you'll see a link that says, "Read My Story," or something like that. That'll take you to my beachbody page where I have day 1 and day 60 pictures posted. While I lost the most weight in the first 30 days, I was disappointed in day 30 pictures. I only lost another 4 pounds my 2nd 30 days, but that's when the blubber started to go away. My favorite picture are those from the back...nothing better than seeing that horrible back fat gone.

For those of you who are exercising regularly, if you're serious about it, you might consider investing in a heart rate monitor. I started wearing one this week, and I have to say, it really made me aware of those moments when I was slacking. In addition, I was suprised by some of the activities I do where I felt I was exerting myself, but according to my heartrate, not so much. In fact, I just walked my dogs for 20 minutes, and threw on the HRM to see what was up. I walk pretty quickly with the dogs (about 4.5 mph), and the only time my heart rate came close to being 'in the zone' (which is between 65% and 90% of my max heart rate) was the two times that I had to walk uphill. Otherwise, my heart rate only got up to about 50-55% of max, even though I felt like I was pushing myself.

I also cannot recommend strength training enough for those of you who want to shed some pounds. Building muscle is going to help your body become a more efficient fat burning machine. While P90X, the program I'm doing, certainly isn't for everyone, there are great programs that incorporate cardio with strength training, such as some of the workouts by Debbie Siebers (i.e. Slim in Six), Chalene Johnson (Turbo Jam and Turbo Kick), Shaun T (famous for his Hip Hop Abs), and Tony Horton (P90X, Power 90, 10 minute Trainer).

[KateKat]

wow! Those are some awesome before and afters! You can definitely tell its made a difference. Does the program come with an eating plan if you aren't necessarily interested in losing weight? Also, I remember when I looked at this you need a pulll up bar, right? What kind did you get?

[glfprncs]

wow! Those are some awesome before and afters! You can definitely tell its made a difference. Does the program come with an eating plan if you aren't necessarily interested in losing weight? Also, I remember when I looked at this you need a pulll up bar, right? What kind did you get?

It does come with an eating plan that is about making healthy choices, basically eating clean. You don't necessarily need a pull-up bar...I've been using resistance bands and a door attachment that works the same muscles as pull-ups, but without actually doing pull-ups. I then use those same resistance bands for the dumb bell work.

I'm planning on doing 60 days of a program called, "Insanity" in July and August and then will go back to P90X for another 90 day cycle. I'll get the pull-up bar for that cycle, and will probably purchase the bar sold by the company. That said, I know many people who purchase the "Iron Gym" pull-up bar and are pleased with it.

[Sporthorse Shop]

Hi all! Thanks again for your responses! I am pleased with the loss that I have made but I know I got stressed out and fell back into some old patterns and I also didn't get to all of my boot camp sessions. I am trying to jump start my progress again. I have maintained and not gained back so that's been great but I still need to be more disciplined with my food and get to all my workouts. I bought an elliptical today and hope to make our new extra room a home gym. I need that more than a space to sit and watch TV or use the puter! Does anyone have a Wii Fit? Hubby would love to have the game anyway and I know just the bowling, tennis and boxing is some exercise...but anyone like the Wii fit?

I have the Wii fit and it is fun to an extent. What I really like and use almost every day is the Wii Dance Dance Revolution. After you get the hang of it and move up to the middle levels, it is one heck of a work out and a lot of fun. I have also been riding bareback which has toned my thighs and improved my balance. I have a draft cross which makes for a more comfortable seat.

[glfprncs]

I just had the opportunity (this morning) to travel to Atlanta to hear Tony Horton speak. Talk about motivational. His big mantra of the day was about getting moving towards better fitness, and over and over he stated, "If you worked out today, you're already healthier than you were yesterday."

I just thought this was a great day of looking at fitness...it's day by day. All you have to do is string those days together.

Anyhow, I also blogged about it, and thought I'd share:
http://personalsweatequity.blogspot.com/2009/06/one-day-at-time.html

[Lambie Boat]

just want to encourage all you young 'uns to go to a Jazzercise class and see if you like it. they are fun! I know it's very 1970s-ish or whatever, and seems to be full of older fatties, but not really. if you go to www.jazzercize.com, find a class near you (usually in a room somewhere, not a gym), usually first class can be free if you ask (or $5)

sometimes it's better to feed off the energy of others and have community in person, rather than doing it in front of your own tv or monitor, alone

[glfprncs]

If a person truly wants to commit to fitness, you first have to find SOMETHING you're willing to do every day. The key, however, is finding something that you truly enjoy. I believe I've had success with the P90X program I'm following because it's empowering to me. It's hard as hell...but when I'm done, I am PROUD of what I accomplished. It's easier to sit on the sofa and make excuses...I challenge those of you who truly WANT to make changes, to search for that 'something' that challenges and motivates you to do it every day.

http://personalsweatequity.blogspot.com/2009/06/something-for-everybodyso-cut-excuses.html

[twnkltoz]

I can understand floundering...it's SO HARD to keep at it for an extended period of time! I haven't really been watching what I eat at all, except in short spurts here and there. I am running about five days a week though, and I spend about four hours at the barn five days per week doing various things with horses. I don't seem to be getting any lighter (haven't weighed in a while though), but I seem to be getting more muscle definition and less padding here and there.

I have been interviewing a local woman and writing about her story for a local magazine. She has lost 130 pounds since March of last year and has 33 to go...WOW, talk about inspiration! She goes to a gym and has a personal trainer, and I think that really helps her a lot. She gets constant support and motivation. She works out and journals everything she eats.

[twnkltoz]

Oh...I don't have wii fit but my daughter has dance dance revolution and wii sports...they ARE good workouts! I should start doing that again.

[FancyFree]

just want to encourage all you young 'uns to go to a Jazzercise class and see if you like it. they are fun! I know it's very 1970s-ish or whatever, and seems to be full of older fatties, but not really. if you go to www.jazzercize.com, find a class near you (usually in a room somewhere, not a gym), usually first class can be free if you ask (or $5)

sometimes it's better to feed off the energy of others and have community in person, rather than doing it in front of your own tv or monitor, alone

I used to go to Jazzercise with my mom and her friends when I was in high school. It was a lot of fun.

I have to say that the deprivation part of eating right gets me down at times. Especially being on vacation right now, I want to just forget the diet. I have to some extent but I've been swimming (we're in Maui) everyday so that minimizes the damage, I hope. When I get back, my treadmill will be glaring at me I'm sure.

[twnkltoz]

The thing is, if you do it right, you don't feel deprived. There are so many GOOD diet foods! Especially now with all the 100 calorie packs, etc. It takes effort, though...which I just can't seem to put in. When I'm following the Sonoma Diet to the letter, I don't feel deprived.

[tabula rashah]

5 years ago I was in really good shape, 5 years ago I was backpacking the Appalachian Trail,5 years ago I was white water kayaking, 5 years ago I was running horses on the triangle at Dressage at Devon, 5 years ago I fractured 2 vertebrae and it was all down hill from there.
Now I'm at the point where I need to drop 100 lbs. I've tried all kinds of things- Weight Watchers, doing it on my own..... A month ago I saw an ad in my local paper that my county was doing a biggest loser and I called and joined. I know that I am an extremely competitive person and that a cash prize (besides the real prize of losing the weight) was really appealing.
Now, I'm 3 weeks into the program and I've lost 15lbs already. I feel soooooo much better its unbelievable. I've also rediscovered how much I like to workout and to push myself. I still have a long way to do, but somehow I just know its working this time.


And, a big congrats and you can to do it to all the others on this thread!

[glfprncs]

Just wanted to share my 90 days update.

As many of you know, I've been utilizing the P90X in home fitness program, and today was day #90 (hurray!). To all of those naysayers who said I would quit after a few days, "Ha!"

Anyhow, here are the current results:

Weight dropped from 202 to 183 pounds. A loss of 19 pounds
I dropped 8% body fat.
Waist dropped from 35" to 31". A difference of -4"
Chest dropped from 40.5" to 37.5". A difference of -3"
Hips dropped from 41.5" to 39.5". A difference of -2"

I toned a tremendous amount. During those weeks when I didn't lose a lot of weight on the scale, the fat hanging from different areas of my body began to shrink. Thus, that ugly back fat that used to hang right around my waist, is GONE!

I'm really pleased with my results, and am truly proud of myself for pushing through for the 90 days. One thing that I truly had to focus on, though, were my eating habits. The beauty of the P90X program was that it came with a nutrition guide, which helped make the transition to healthier eating MUCH easier. I'm excited to start my next 90 days towards my new goals, today.

Anyhow...I blogged (again) about my experience here: http://personalsweatequity.blogspot.com

[twnkltoz]

That is awesome...great job!

[UFTemptation]

I have the Wii fit and it is fun to an extent. What I really like and use almost every day is the Wii Dance Dance Revolution. After you get the hang of it and move up to the middle levels, it is one heck of a work out and a lot of fun. I have also been riding bareback which has toned my thighs and improved my balance. I have a draft cross which makes for a more comfortable seat.

For those of you that have the Wii Fit, is it worth me investing almost $400 for the Wii and Wii Fit system? I am in the process of being diagnosed with some auto immune disorder (still waiting on bloodwork and test results to come back and will likely have to go have another tissue biopsy before they decide on an official diagnosis.) and if it is what 2 of 3 doctors are pretty convinced I have, the treatment for it is looking not so fun. 1 to 2 years of high doses of prednisone and 6 to 12 months of chemotherapy/immuno suppressants. I'll need to avoid germy areas like the gym as I won't have much of an immune system and I already don't fight off infections very well. I'm considering picking up the Wii Fit but don't want to if it's not going to be worth the money. I won't really be up for any intense exercise, I just need something that will give me some aerobic work out and be fun. I've been way too sick to ride, I've been on a horse twice this year and it's not looking like I'll be getting up on one again in the near future so I'm hoping to find something else I find enjoyable. I'm not really good at sticking to the gym routine so if the Wii is fun, I'm more likely to do it. Especially if I can bowl or play tennis with a friend. I'm really worried about gaining a lot of weight on the prednisone as I have already been on 2 15 day courses and gained a bit of weight.

[Huntertwo]

Congratulations to those who have been able to lose the weight. :yes:

I lost 10 lbs, but unfortunately have gained it back. It sucks. I honestly do not eat junk food nor eat a lot.

I'm not a hot weather person and the weather in the N.E. has been incredibly humid for the past month. By the time I'm done working at the stable for 5 hours, I'm literally drenched in sweat and have absolutely zero energy to exercise.

Does anyone find if you also don't ride for a bit you tend to gain some weight back? My mare had a health issue and had some time off. I just feel *flabby* after not riding for an extended period of time. :no:

[glfprncs]

I just posted my 90 day pictures to my BB webpage for those of you interested in seeing what 90 days of exercise and good nutrition can do. I'm absolutely floored by my results. To see, go to: http://beachbodycoach.com/nancyschwert and then click on 'Read My Story'--it'll take you to my BB profile.

I've found that taking my pictures every 30 days really helps me stay motivated (because the scale doesn't always move that much in a 30 day period, but boy can the body change shape in that same amount of time), and sharing them keeps me accountable. It's a win-win situation.

[nightsong]

Exercise is critical enough that you should MAKE yourself do it. Yes, you CAN. What *I* did, since my life was literally at stake, and i couldn't AFFORD to have "lazy days," was to paek my car and WALK everywhere. Did the trick!!!

[sadlmakr]

Overweight is caused by putting too much of the wrong foods in your stomach.
I know I should talk. I do it too.
I was 296 pounds and could not take it any more.
I tried so many different Diets. But the only one that worked for me being an O + bloodtype was the Atkins diet. I followed it to the letter. and it took 18 months to get 87 pounds off.
I had bad days and hit plateaus and I was frantic to lose the weight.
I did get it off and felt wonderful. But if I start eating lots of starches and sugars I start gaining it all back.
I love fresh vegetables. I buy fresh green beans and fresh squash and lots of leafy green stuff. In some ways this diet is similar to Weight Watchers in that some vegies are limited items. Also you have to weight your food. Some fruits are allowed but there are some high sugar types that are limited.
I had women tell me I was nuts to do the Atkins as it would kill me in the long run. I use wisdom and researched the diet carefully. I took one day out of each month to eat whatever I wanted. Then I went back on diet. Use care doing this however as it can send one into a food binge and it will all come back on.
It worked. I still use a modified Atkins program. However I have learned recently that I have a wheat allergy. So that cuts out lots of stuff that can add lots of " Fat on the hips."
It is a war on fat. It comes on so easy and goes off so hard. You are not alone.
Cheers. S

[tabula rashah]

Update post for me
It's 45 days into my "lifestyle" change and so far I'm down from 260 to 235 (25 lbs!!!!). I am being conscious of what I eat but not overly crazy about it- I know that its something I want to be able to continue. I have, however, increased my exercise tenfold- walking, hiking, going to the gym, running, riding:)
Updates from anyone else?

[fabuleux]

I am here in Montana working on a ranch my uncle lives on. Before I came out here, I probably weighed 175, give or take. Since I've been out here, I've cut out all junk food (okay, so I had some ice cream the other day...), and I've been trying to eat pretty healthy.


I don't know how much I have lost because we don't have a scale out here, but my belly is getting smaller and tighter (YAY!), and my waist is getting smaller too. I feel like I fit in clothes better too.

I ride about 2 or 3 hours a day, give or take- sometimes we do a 5 hour ride and sometimes no riding. I walk at least a mile and a half to bring the horse in/turn him out...and sometimes it turns into 3 miles if he won't come in. :lol: Back at home, I did NO exercise, so this is pretty good for me.


I've only been here 2 weeks, but I feel like I already see a difference.


How has your weight loss been going?

[glfprncs]

I'll be 120 days into my fitness/nutrition lifestyle change in a few days, and I couldn't be happier with my progress.

Thus far, I've dropped 23 pounds, getting below 180 pounds for the first time in over 15 years. THAT was definitely a milestone, and has motivated me even more.

I've been working out 6 days a week for the past 17 weeks with the P90X program, and I finally am to the point where I actually WANT to workout during the day. Changing my eating habits has been a bigger struggle, but it's definitely been a positive experience, and while difficult, I believe MORE important than the daily workouts.

I've been blogging about my experiences, and trying to help and motivate others, at: http://personalsweatequity.blogspot.com

[glfprncs]

Hi everyone! Just wanted to share something that I just put on my blog today. Beachbody, the company for whom I now coach, released a free beginner's workout. So, if you think you're too 'big' to workout, or if most workout programs are really challenging for you, this "Pay it Forward" workout might just be the thing for you. It's a basic 25 minute workout that includes some light cardio and strength training. It might be just what many need to get started in a successful way.

http://personalsweatequity.blogspot.com/2009/08/pay-it-forward-workout-free.html

[Coreene]

I've lost 82 lbs since late June 2008. :D

[Ambrey]

I've lost 82 lbs since late June 2008. :D

And she looks mahvelous!

[amadee]

can i ask what you are doing to keep losing so consistently? i have dropped 32 pounds since last January and have another 35 to go to be at my "perfect" weight. i am not following any specific plan but take bits and pieces from many to determine what works best for me and i need to add in more exercise but have a bum knee that feels better with the current weight lost but still cannot do all kinds of exercise, will eventually need it replaced.

Congrats again and to all of you who are losing and continue to lose!!!!

[glfprncs]

Bravo to you Coreene! Way to keep pushing to meet your goals!

A couple things to think about if you're trying to lose weight:

1. Diet alone is not going to help you meet your goals. While diet is VERY, VERY important, you must also move your body more in order to burn calories and boost your metabolism. Even something as simple as walking for 30 minutes, 5 days per week will help a ton.

2. That said, diet is also key. You've got to learn portion control, and eat things in moderation. I eat 5 or 6 times per day: 5:30 a.m., 9:00 a.m. (a quick protein bar during class change), 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and a high protein, low carb snack around 8:30. Studies say that smaller, more frequent meals that are balanced in protein and carbs help the body maintain metabolism.

3. Make breakfast the largest meal of the day. Do NOT skip it. Your body will simply say, "Oh, you're not going to feed me? Okay, starvation mode, here we go." If you don't feed your body regularly, it will try to hang onto every calorie it can, thinking you're never going to feed it. Waiting until 2:00 in the afternoon for your first real meal of the day is VERY bad for losing weight.

4. Keep a food diary. Use use www.myfitnesspal.com. I am able to customize my eating plan (I eat around 1800 calories per day, and eat 20% fats, 40% carbs, 40% proteins), and know exactly where I stand and how many calories I have available throughout the rest of the day.

5. Try not to eat anything with carbs 3 hours before bedtime. Your body wont' have time to digest and burn those carbs in the 3 hours, so your body has a tendency to store it as fat overnight. Eat something high in protein before bed if you're hungry (scoop of peanut butter, low fat cheese sticks, etc.)

6. Eat clean. Fruits, veggies, whole grains. Try to ditch processed foods, sodas, and things with added sugar.


I started this journey on April 4th, and thus far am down from a size 16/18 to a 12/14 pant, dropped 25 pounds as of today, and I feel so powerful! Keep up the great work everyone! You CAN make changes!

[foundationmare]

Congrats to all of you,

I was once a fat chick. Most people don't know that about me! ?What they see is a small, buff woman. What they don't know is that when I gave birth to my second son I was 205#. He was a hefty 10#5oz. I lost a lot of weight quickly because I nursed him.

I'm now a consistent size 2,4,6 and it's totally because of my work with horses! When I had my fourth and last child, I weighed as much on my delivery day as I did when I got pregnant with her. Why? because I cleaned a shit load of stalls and stayed active with horses!

I'm a foodie so can't do the food deprivation thing: I've found that lots of exercise creates a balance for me. I pretty much eat whatever I want and stay very, very active. It makes all the difference.

[tabula rashah]

Congrats Coreen!!! That is amazing

I'm down 32 pounds now in a little under three months (yay!!!!) and 2 sizes. I still have 75 to go. I was so excited I actually ran a mile the other day (not a great time, but hey who cares right?). I also can totally feel the difference when riding already- better balance, better stamina and I'm sure my horses can tell too.

Here's what I've been doing-
1. Way uping my protein intake, at least 75 grams a day and fiber intake, at 35 grams a day
2. Eating 5 meals a day:1- protein and fiber shake, 2- fruit, 3- protein and fiber shake, 4- veggies and/or nut and/ or healthy carb 5-lean protein, veggies and good carb
3. Exercise, exercise, exercise
4. And the big secret, if I'm really craving something or even just want something, I let myself have 1 or 2 bites- and stop there
5. I joined a weight loss group with a nutritionist- we meet weekly, have classes, good support system and the nutritionist goes over my food journal every week

[wsmoak]

I started working with a personal trainer (http://fitnessdefinedaz.com/) on strength, flexibility and balance in April 2008 and have lost 55 pounds (and six dress sizes). I'm close to my ideal weight, now I'm just trying to rearrange it a bit and put on some muscle. :)

Some things that have helped me are...

Using The Daily Plate (http://www.livestrong.com/thedailyplate/) and a kitchen scale (http://www.amazon.com/Oxo-Grips-Scale-Pull-Out-Display/dp/B000WJMTNA) to track what I eat and stay within my calorie goal.

Using a heart rate monitor (http://www.amazon.com/Polar-Heart-Monitor-Watch-Thunder/dp/B000WPEGL2) that calculates calories burned, and doing the math to make sure that if I eat extra calories, I burn them within the week. My favorite thing is taking my iPod touch with the Kindle app and reading a book while I'm on the arc trainer. I barely notice an hour (and 500 calories!) have gone by. If I'm walking or running on the treadmill, I'll listen to books from Audible.com instead.

Having everyone in the house on the same program. My husband is working on losing weight, so there is *no* junk food in the house to tempt anyone. About the worst thing we do is bring home fancy trail mix from CostCo - lots of calories but at least it's healthy fruits and nuts.

We still go out to eat and have treats, but we tend to choose fruit sorbet at the gelato place over ice cream with toppings, or we'll share an entree and get an extra salad (American restaurants serve *way* too much food.)

Congrats to everyone who is making this journey!

--
Wendy
http://pbase.com/wendysmoak/patrick

[tothepointe]

I miss being able to go to my personal trainer 3x week. I didn't get much in the way of weight loss mainly because the medication I was on but now I've switched I've lost 20lbs and hope to capitalize that into more weight loss.

[glfprncs]

I've been wearing a Bodybugg for the past week, and let me tell you, it's totally changed my thoughts on nutrition and weightloss. I burn almost 3000 calories each day, just by living, breathing, walking around at work, and working out for an hour. I realize now that my weightloss probably has plateaued because I was limiting my calories TOO much, so my body was hanging onto every calorie I was putting into it, and not shedding any. Anyhow, I just blogged about it:

http://personalsweatequity.blogspot.com/2009/09/burn-baby-burn.html

[glfprncs]

Hey everyone...it's check-in time. How's everyone doing with their weight loss goals? I'm pleased to say that I bought size 10 jeans for the first time since 1986 (I was in a 16/18 on April 4th), and am down a total of 31 pounds. I've hit some plateaus along the way, but I ignore the scale and just keep plugging along.

Here's my latest blog if you're interested.

http://personalsweatequity.blogspot.com/2009/11/now-it-makes-sense-to-lose-you-need-to.html