Monday, July 30, 2007

What to do when what you're doing doesn't work.

Hey Phitties!

I just checked in on my progress. I've actually expanded a bit (1/4 inch I think) rather than reducing. But why? I'm exercising (both aerobic and anaerobic) I'm eating well. What's the story? Why haven't I reduced my inches or my weight?

Has this ever happened to you? I bet it has. But what do you do? You swear you're doing everything right, but alas, nothing is working as you anticipated! Well, we've got the answers.

1. DON'T quit! Whatever you do, don't give in to despair or discouragement. Keep at it!

2. Re-evaluate what you're doing.

  • Are you lifting? Maybe you're putting on muscle, think if going for reps and tone rather than bulk.
  • Are you walking, running, hitting the bike or stair-master? Maybe you should amp up your workout by going faster or further or using some type of interval training.
  • Are you watching your diet? Some types of diets are better than others for different people. For example, I couldn't loose an * ounce * on The Zone. Try South Beach, avoid Atkins. Personally (as long as you can get the right foods) I really liked the diet in Ultra-Metabolism by Dr. Hyman. At the moment, I'm working on something that's a bit of a blend that eliminates processed carbs (so I can still eat something whole wheat - the real kind that you have to cut with a saw, not just a knife), gives me LOTS of veggies and fruits and still allows me protein (must have for me).
  • Are you taking supplements? Maybe drinking lots of protein powder or using creatine isn't the best idea for you while you're trying to loose weight.

3. Make the changes. Maybe you just need to not have that bagel in the morning. Maybe coffee causes inflammation for you and makes it harder for you to loose. Oh - here's a tip. If it's warm where you are and you've switched your coffee intake from hot to cold - did you add cream to your coffee too? More sugar? Look for the hidden cost of the food and beverages you're consuming.

Ok, that's a lot for one post - but you should have the idea now! (1) Keep at it. (2) Re-valuate. (3) Make changes. Remember, you CAN do it. Stay the course and you'll be phit and phab in no time!

2 comments:

LaTati said...

Thank for your advices, right now I'm on a diet, and excercise plan.

And a really need this info!!

PhillyMac said...

You're welcome! It's my pleasure. And like I said, don't give up! Remember, we don't gain the weight in a day, it doesn't come off that way either. Persist, press on, persevere and you WILL reach your goal! And think, we know we can do this because we had to persistently do the wrong things to get to the wrong place. You ROCK Tati - come back and let me know how you're doing!