Woooooo scary post alert. Probably not scary for you, but totally scary for me.
Let’s just get to the issue at hand. I’ve been steadily gaining weight since I went back to school (in January 2011). The scale has steadily been moving up and up and I have gained a total of 25 lbs.
I’ve gone from wearing a size 0 pant to wearing a size 8.
I’m 5′ 2.5” and right now I weigh 130 lbs and the truth is, the scale is still going up. For the last few months I’ve been whining about my weight gain. But whining and doing something about it are pretty different things.
Here, let the video explain:
Yeah so I have no idea how to lose weight. None. I’ve never lost weight before. But let’s face it – every woman that’s going to have children is going to have to lose weight at some point, so I guess this is like a practice run?
It’s so STINKING scary to talk about weight loss and even more terrifying to post these before pictures.
THERE, they’re out, they’re out. I’m close to hyperventilating.
For the next month I’m going to be making an effort at weight loss. I have no goal right now. The next month is going gauge my weight loss plan.
Here’s my three point plan:
- Food journal
- Move more – get 10,000 steps a day
- Train harder – with the help of Magnum Nutraceuticals
Brad’s going to be loosely following along with me for the next month. He’s not trying to lose any weight but he’s going to try to trim up over the next month. He’s really excited to try out the new Magnum supplements.
Here’s his before:
PHHHHHEEEEWWWWW.
Alright – now that it’s out there, it’s time to take action.
Any advice?
Good for you!!! From someone who’s ALWAYS had a few to lose, you’re in an ok place. I am short too, so everything shows up pretty quickly. Journaling is a must, but probably my biggest piece of advice is that it always takes a couple of tries to see what you can actually stick with for life. My perfect storm was 5 days cardio, 3 weights, and eating healthy lean equal carb/proteins (Body for Life-ish). But that’s just me. Take your time. ps. You’re beautiful.
Thanks Christie – you are my wise mentor in so many things
Sounds like you have a realistic attitude and approach to this! Food journaling is an awesome way to get started- you don’t know what changes to make until you know what you’re currently doing. Making small changes is the way to go, since they’re more likely to stick than something drastic! {It’s my duty as a dietitian to say that;)}.
Duty fulfilled! I usually DO bite off more than I can chew so I’m trying not to on this one.
Just wanted to say Good Luck. If anyone can do this, you can!
Thanks Erin
You are brave and inspiring for putting this out there. I think you are going to be successful just because you’re being honest and realistic!
You’re going to do great!!!!!!!
Heather THANKS for your confidence in me!
you can do this!! After two babies, I’ve had to lose about 20 pounds twice. It can be done. I just have to move more and watch my sugar. Hard.
Good luck – I love weightloss stories so I can’t wait to see your progress.
I’ll be sharing the whole darn thing (after pics in my bathing suit bottoms and sports bra I’ve got nothing to lose now
)
Losing weight is sooooo hard when you already eat relatively healthy and take some time to exercise. You can do it though! Just think what a supportive network you have.
Yes that’s what is so frustrating – I’m already eating well and training so now I have to figure out how to tweak my behaviours for weight loss.
My advice is to not go on a “diet.” Keeping a food journal should clue you in to why you are gaining weight, and help you identify where you can cut out extra calories. Maybe it’s snacking when you’re not really hungry. Maybe its portion size. Maybe it’s buying full-fat dairy instead of lowfat. Maybe it’s a combination. If you can make small changes you should be able to lose weight without feeling miserable.
That said, I don’t do well with detailed food journaling–counting every damn calorie makes me crazy–like cleaning my plate when I’m not hungry any more because otherwise I don’t know how to count it.
I agree, not going on a diet. Just making changes!
You can do this Morgan! I know being a student involves a lot of sedentary time in front of the books (just like a desk job implies lots of sedentary time behind a desk) but I know that with a little more effort you can be back to where you were in no time. When I was losing my 70lbs, I focused on replacing the super calorie-dense foods I was eating with lower calorie, high-volume ones. My dad is 6’3″ and I’m 5’10″, and even during my most rapid weight loss weeks, I would be willing to bet that I ate more volume-wise than he did. The difference was that my food intake was about 70% fruits and veggies, with lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats making up the other 30%. While it was definitely a change to my family’s grocery expenditure, I don’t imagine it would be that big of a change when you compare the amount others might be spending on supplements. Good luck and let me know if you have any questions!
Yeah it’s obviously the lifestyle change because that’s when the weight gain started. Thanks for your support Angela
Thank you for being so candid–Really. It takes a lot to do this; I’m actually pretty inspired. I don’t blog about weight loss either, but, as a graduate student, I’ve put on about ten pounds in the last year, also on a 5’2″ frame, so I definitely feel ya. I’m definitely going to follow along with your progress and try to follow in your (10,000) footsteps!
Also like how you’re starting simply, not taking on any giant ‘diet regimen.’ Krysten’s right – Food journaling is DEFINITELY a great way to start, so long as you stay honest
It’s also good for other things besides weight loss, like noticing which foods upset your stomach and such.
Good luck with your new training plan!
Meredith – I’ve had a few people recommend a website called Fit Bit to track steps. Have you heard about it? I’m going to check it out.
Yes – I’ve heard WONDERFUL things about fitbit! But I think you have to buy their special activity tracker to wear all day long.
I’m right there with you! Two things- First, you are beautiful and you do not look like you need to lose anything. Second- remember that muscle weighs more than fat. My gym trainer says that you should judge more by the way that you feel and the way your clothes fit you rather than the scale. Love ya!
Thanks for your well wishes Claire
Clothes definitely don’t fit – that’s the most upsetting part – not the #
Morgan congrats on being so brave and sharing such a personal struggle with the world.
Let me know if I can help in any way
xo
Thanks for the offer Miranda. You may very well be hearing from me
You got this Morgan!! SO PROUD OF YOU! xo
If it wasn’t for you I may have never gotten this blog post up
I’ve so been there, too! During college I gained about 20 lbs, which is a lot on my short frame. I guess it was a combination of greasy mensa food, lack of exercise, and mindless snacking during my day-long study sessions at the library.
Your approach sounds reasonable. My advice is to focus on getting enough sleep. I always seem to lose weight on vacation, because I’m finally relaxed and not constantly sleep deprived.
You can do this!
P.S. Please remember that you don’t really have to lose weight, as your BMI is still within a healthy range. Don’t stress!
Sue I didn’t even THINK about sleep. Great tip thanks
Don’t be scared! You’re taking charge of your health. One surprisingly helpful tool for me is LoseIt (www.loseit.com). It helped me understand what I was eating (nutrient wise) and how much I was burning. Lots of fun reports show you a picture of what’s going on. But, that works for me. Everyone is so different! Wishing you the best and I hope to learn somethings from you along the way!
Hi Katie – thanks for the recommendation – I’ll check out the site!
Hugs!!! You are the same height/weight combo I was when I finished school – I then started working full-time (more sitting) had threee kids and didn’t lose it before. After I had Amber (my third) I finally buckled down and even though I carried that extra weight around for 12 years, I lost it ALL!. I’m sure you know exactly what it takes to lose & maintain it, so I’ll save the advice, instead I want you to know that:
1 – You CAN do it!
2 – I’m here for you if you ever want to bounce questions off of me about weight loss and training.
Good luck & you can do it!!
Yes I do have a pretty fast paced goal of graduation to work to starting a family so this is for sure the time to set things straight. Thanks for your support Janice
How frustrating that you are having a hard time maintaining your weight even though you exercise often and eat really healthy! It makes me wonder if something else might be going on, like a food allergy?
That was the case for me – I ate healthy but still gained weight in college. It drove me bananas, because friends of mine would gorge on Doritos and pizza and still fit into their high school jeans, while I would eat salad and one small brownie and gain two pounds. Since then, my mom, my brother and I have all lost weight not by eating less, but by cutting out gluten and dairy.
But you’ll figure it out. You are beautiful and inspiring. Best of luck!
It is frustrating but I also know I could do better too. I had a bunch of tests for food related issues last year. I am somewhat sensitive to dairy so I cut way back I totally thought cutting on down cheese was going to be my weight loss saviour. Sadly it wasn’t. Fooey!
I love your honesty…thanks so much for sharing your journey with us! It’s bold to post those pictures and start this conversation – I love that you went for it! We’re here to support you – everyone’s gained some here and there and if you eat well (biggest part of weight loss!) and keep moving more in your days, you WILL see results and change. Again, I just appreciate your honesty and love that you’ve decided to ACT instead of just WHINE (in your words)…it’s inspiring and gearing me up to eat clean today; thank you!
Thanks Bonnie. Consistency might be exactly what I’m missing so being accountable for these actions might be the key for me.
Sounds like you’re on the right track. Journalling is important and one of the most helpful tools. It’s also been said that weekly weigh ins are the best for weight loss/maintenance. Good luck with losing the weight! I look forward to hearing about your journey.
Thanks Bronwyn. Yes I think weekly weigh-ins will probably be the way to go, good tip!
I gained 15 pounds when I was in grad school (which was only a year and a half), so I’ve definitely BTDT on the weightloss.
Try to add some extra movement in your day. I make myself get up and do a chore every 15-20 minutes when I’m working at my desk. I also found that eating more frequently helps me, as long as I remember to eat smaller meals.
Good luck! You can totally do this!
Every 15-20 minutes?!?! Oh I hope my bf doesn’t read this haha. That’s far more chores than I usually do
Good luck with your weight loss journey! Fitbook is a great journal is you want something more formal! I look forward to following your journal!
I’ll have to check that out. Thanks!
bravo, kudos, hugs and love!! I took some before pictures a few months ago but have not posted them…sort of hoping I have some great afters in another few months and then I’ll have the courage.
It’s easy to let life derail our plans and simply sneak up on us in ways. You have an amazing support network and lots of knowledge so I know you can achieve what you set your sites on with health!
Hmmmm why didn’t I think of that?!?! Shoulda posted the before and after all together. Less pressure
I bet your afters will look awesome, good luck to you too
It is HUGE that you have Brad as a support system, seriously. I think with the support and accountability of each other, it will make it much more feasible for you both
It’s true – having a partner helps, we love working out together. His goals are basically to get ripped – which I’d like for me too. But first gotta get some of the weight off.
1 word – almonds
Hahaha I hear that you’re on your strict eating plan again. Is it helping? I assume you spend as much time sitting at a desk as I do. I’ll call your office line next time I’m up until 3am and wanting to eat chips
Two things.
One: I love the sandals.
Two: We’re in the same boat. Except I haven’t gained any weight, I’ve just given up on the trying to lose any part. And you still look way better in your underwear than I do. So, there’s that.
Anyhow, you can totally do it, and I believe in you 100%. BUT, if you need anyone to bitch to, you know I’m just an email away.
I feel I should tell you that it’s a bathing suit bottom, not under wear, but then again the top is a bra … ahhhhh semantics
thanks dude
I am so proud of you for putting this out there. You got this. Food journal is awesome! I am here for you whenever you need me. You are not on a diet you are sticking to clean eating. Our next date will be upper body workouts with the TRX I lent Krysten. Taking it back to attack you
exactly – no diet … silly word
Good luck Morgan! It takes a lot of guts to be so candid about your weight when you’re unhappy with it – thanks for your honesty! I’m sure a lot of people can relate to this and you’ll get tons of good advice and tips.
thanks Sam – it did take guts, I hummed and hawed about putting this post up for a long time
Morgan – you are BOLD, BRAVE AND BEAUTIFUL. And super gutsy
I love this post. I love your commitment. You can do it! You are amazing no matter what, though! xo
ahhhhhh I blush at your capital letter compliment
… thanks for the support!
It is scary I bet and especially since so many people don’t really talk about in the blog world outside of blogs directly geared to weight loss. I think you look great now, but certainly hear you on wanting to get back to where you feel best, healthiest, and strongest. Good on you!
it’s hard to admit that you need to lost weight when you’re already promoting healthy living yes
Very proud of you! I promise I will no longer pout and ask for chips
Totally support this decision and think it will motivate me to live healthier!
don’t you mean chips AND whiskey
If anyone can do this, you can Morgan! Like I said in my tweet, food journalling will be key! Most times we don’t even realize just how much we’re eating until we start tracking it. That alone could help you lose a few pounds at the outside. You know you have the support of a bazillion nutritionists, trainers, weight loss coaches and more so you know what to do for help! Rock it!
it’s true I probably have the biggest support system in the world … I have more friends who work in the health industry than don’t
plan your meals, shop right and pre food
good luck
thanks Lara!
You still look fabulous!
I just had a baby and definitely am learning how to lose weight. I’m using myfitnesspal and have lost 9lbs this month..pretty good, eh?
9 lbs in one month with two little boys on your hands – ummmm I’m totally impressed dude
that certainly gives me a lot to live up to haha
LOTS of RAW veggies, use lime and lemon as salad dressing (it’s so good!), lots of tea and water, and food journal
you got this!
THANKS Elisabeth
Honestly, if I hadn’t put myself out there and set some goals…I probably wouldn’t have gotten to any goal I’ve set over the last year. Putting yourself out there takes guts…but the pay-off is worth it. I’m excited to see you tear it up, Morgan…you’ve got this. (And that food journal? I’m starting one, too. I need an overhaul.
)
YAY for starting a food journal … already in two days it’s helped me say no to some bad food because I was like “hell no – I’m not writing that down” GOOD LUCK with yours!
You look great! I’ve always admired your healthy lifestyle, and after meeting you in person see how radiant and beautiful you are! I have put on weight since moving to Toronto. Sometimes I embrace it, and sometimes it bothers me. I understand how important it is to feel right in your own skin though and wish you all the best on this new adventure!
YES exactly – I kept going back and forth too … buy new pants, or make an effort to trim up? but since the scale just kept going up I figured it’s time to nip it in the butt – literally – my butt hahaha
heyhunny, you are so brave nad taking the right step. Talking about it. Whenever I start a journey I tell my clients and friends and family so they can help keep me accountable. I started a new journey 18 days ago. So I will follow along with yo ur journey and be as much of a support as you need.
As for your food journal, lets make this easy for you. get the app “my fitness pal”, you can link it to the website on your computer and track food (calories in) and exercise. YOu can also put your recipes in so it can calculate the amount of calories are in your dishes. I found this particularly helpful because sometimes I underestimate the healthy stuff. good luck! (I can’t believe you put before photos up, ahh..I skipped that part.)
OH OHOH one more thing. take all your measurements, since you have never lost weight before and you are training, you may not budge a whole lotin the scale, but you might, who knows, but taking your measurements is the best way to gauge the actual results.
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Morgan, I am in the same exact situation as you. Same weight/height everything. I started going back to the gym two months ago, but, unfortunately, I hurt my ankle and have been in a cast for the past month. I hope to heal soon and get back into it.
Good luck with everything! I’ll be following your log, as always.
I think it’s great that you posted this! You are already ahead of the game because you are being completely accountable to yourself. Now that you are in control and calling the shots you will feel so much better! Good luck!
I do feel in control now – good way of putting it … thanks for your well wishes
I would say keep yourself motivated for losing weight. No doubt that you are on the right track to lose weight. Eating healthy as well as doing exercise regularly can benefit in weight loss. Take green tea everyday as it really helps in increasing metabolism which allows body to burn fat faster.