feeling a bit demotivated : (

[nykkieberry]

I joined the gym at the beginning of June - i do 3 x one hour sessions in the gym a week (20 mins cardio/40 mins abs and weights), pilates twice a week and sparodic swimming, jogging, running after my partner and toddler. I've also cut out alcohol mid week and downed my overall calorie intake. Weighed myself last night after 4 weeks of this routine (previously I swam 2 - 3 times a week and still did the running around after others) and i've lost a SOLITARY POUND in weight! And before you say it, no, my clothes don't fit any better! My posture, stamina and energy have improved but no weight lost and I don't feel anymore toned. What's going on? Am I wasting my time?

[docklands77]

Yes, I agree that whatever age you are, you should still be able to burn the fat but a fitness instructor told me this. Must admit I do not have the facts to back it up but if anyone else does, I would be interested to hear. Tom

[nykkieberry]

Thank god for that! The last thing I need to know is that thirty means fat!

[docklands77]

Don't worry nykkie! With my phenomenal advice and motivation, I will guarantee you body perfection!!

[nykkieberry]

I'll be laughing myself fit at this rate!

[docklands77]

In the past, the most successful I have been in losing weight was when I was most happy so maybe that will help!

[treaclefight]

lol, ive only been thin when i've been miserable, bear in mind too that women have hormones which make them resistant to losing weight, so most diets will get off to a slow start, perseverance is the key, eventually if the calories consumed are less than the calories burned your body has to start shedding weight. dont be hard on yourself and dont think that being thin will make you happy, you will just find fault with something else when you get there, what it takes is a shift in perception, everyone else knows how fantastic your skin, hair and body will look if you're fit and healthy, you have to start looking at yourself in the same way, you're putting in the work, the results will happen, be proud of yourself for doing it. if some one tells you you're looking good say "thankyou, i've been working my a*se off" and let them tell you how well you've done, (women who aren't happy with their appearance tend to deflect compliments rather than listen to them). I'm a couple of months ahead of you with the new going to the gym routine so i'm seeing the results, but being happy with being 11 stone has taken a huge shift in percpetion for someone who has been very thin in the past, keep us posted with how well you're doing, if you're feeling demotivated again let us know and i will get my extra special ego boosting kit out. (not tomorrow night tho, because i will be out undoing a bit of my hard work with several g & ts and a crafty ciggie).

[treaclefight]

i think i should stop going on now, sorry :-)

[nykkieberry]

treaclefight - what a woman! what fantastic advice! : ) Have a good one tonight - I'll be joining you in spirit!

[docklands77]

anybody who smokes AND goes to the gym, is, in my opinion, completely nuts....

[craig_edward]

Ok, firstly, if you want to look toned its going to take a while and a lot of effort.. simply going to the gym for a month is not going to do it!! I started back last summer and row at college, and it took me about 6 months before I consisdered myself 'toned'. Despite the fact that you want to lose weight, you may find yourself eating more (especially if you want muscle) - just make sure you eat the right stuff - i.e lay off the pies!!! I managed to lose weight by doing lots of long medium intensity cardio workouts on the rowing machine (beware if you're female though you can end up with big shoulders) but i see no reason why using the exercise bike shouldn't have same effect. Try working out with someone, its easier to stay motivated if you have a goal (mine was wanting to be a first 8 rower) or someone to spot you, it'll make it less easy for you to give up and more enjoyable. Hey, persevere, it really does all work in the end...x