If you know me, or have followed any of my previous blogs, you know that I’ve struggled with a few extra pounds for the past few years. Like many people, I am on and off the fitness wagon.
My biggest fail is food. I love to eat and tend to view food as comfort, reward and entertainment. And, in part, food is all of those things. But moderation is the key and that’s where I fail. I also tend to be an “all or nothing” sort of person. If I give in to a tempting food, I just indulge all day because I’ve already “messed up.” Must. Stop. Doing this.
For the coming week, I’m going to work on taking my focus off food and on exercising and drinking 60 oz of water daily. I know that when I exercise, I not only drink more water, but I am less likely to make poor food choices.
My two favorite online tools for fitness-tracking are Livestrong and HabitForge. Livestrong makes it easy to track your daily calories consumed and burned, while HabitForge works on the premise that it takes 21 days to forge a habit and sends you an email each day to track your success. So far, my success rate for drinking enough water is 40%. I will increase that by next Friday.
What are you best tips for sticking with a fitness regimen?
{ 97 comments… read them below or add one }
Twitter: forloveorfunny
March 12, 2010 at 9:05 am
Hi Sharon,
I was just thinking of focussing on the same thing… increasing my running and exercise, and drinking more water. I’ve been stuck on the same weight forever, and I’m anxious to start moving in the right direction again. :)
Lynn from For Love or Funny´s last blog ..What to do if you’re locked in a cage…
I haven’t heard of those sites so I will have to have a look. Thanks so much for recommending them. Happy Birthday too-hope you have a wonderful year.
Best wishes for a fabulous SITS Saturday,
Natasha.
Natasha´s last blog ..Miso fish and a birthday wish!
I’m stopping over from SITS — saw it was your birthday. Hope it’s a happy one!
I love your thoughts about focusing on exercise and not food. I love food too, but when I focus on exercise I tend to eat less b/c I don’t want to waste all that time I spent working out. I needed the reminder! Thanks!
You are so right! I’ve been exercising more lately & it makes me feel so much better physically AND emotionally! Plus, drinking all that water keeps me from snacking :)
Amanda´s last blog ..Solo on Saturday, But Thankful Anyhow!
Happy Birthday. Love the new site.
Found you through SITS
adrienne´s last blog ..National Nutrition Month 2010 & Nutrition from the Ground Up
Twitter: nona_jordan
March 13, 2010 at 8:09 am
Happy birthday!!
I haven’t heard of habit forge – will definitely check it out. I like to tell my family and friends about what I’m doing and get others involved in my goals. Sharing exercise, recipes, and inspiration with friends is always better than going it alone.
Happy SITS Saturday Share Fest! xoxo
Nona @ Nona Jordan Business & Life Design´s last blog ..Wabi Sabi Wednesday. It’s your turn.
Happy Birthday!!
I think you are so right on taking the focus OFF food!! I know when I’m “dieting”, food is ALL I think about and that’s really not healthy. No matter what I’m eating, lol!
Jeannie´s last blog ..Friday Mish-Mash Post
Twitter: shoeboxdaily
March 13, 2010 at 8:18 am
Happy Birthday – Found you from SITS – for me drinking water makes all the difference – keeping hydrated helps curb cravings and flushes me out! Good luck!
Happy, Happy birthday! Have a sparkly wonderful day and remember to drink lots of water ;) Yours in the SISTahood, TJ
TJ at Any Given Moment´s last blog ..You Capture: quiet
Twitter: ReadingTeen
March 13, 2010 at 8:21 am
Happy, Happy Birthday! I hope you have a fantastic one!
For the past year or longer I have done better about exercise than ever before. I think it’s because I finally decided not to set unrealistic expectations. I have always tried to do too much, and then I just don’t do it one day, and that turns into two, etc. This time I decided that I was just going to try to walk every day. Hopefully it would be 30 min, but any amount is better than nothing. It’s funny because not only have I kept it up, but I’ve also started jogging sometimes too. And I do arm weights while I’m walking. Every other time, I’ve started strong and ended weak. This time I started weak, and have somehow gotten stronger…. :)
Andye´s last blog ..Eclipse Trailer and new "It’s your story….so write it!" (Faerie edition)
Twitter: ReadingTeen
March 13, 2010 at 8:22 am
Uh…now I need to get off the computer, and go walk….
Andye´s last blog ..Eclipse Trailer and new "It’s your story….so write it!" (Faerie edition)
Happy Birthday and Happy SITS Day! I am with you on loving food. I exercise but I need to work on moderation with food.
I completely agree that our culture is too food obsessed. we are either starving ourselves or overeating. The key is to eating is moderation and you can’t get fit w/o exercise and you body needs water to stay healthy. Good advice!
Happy Birthday and thanks for the great tip on SITS Saturday Sharefest!
Happy Birthday…
thank you so much for the tip…I’m really thinking of moving to wordpress…and your saturday sharefest…is pushing me more that way…..
as for working out….being pregnant…has lowered my exercise level….so my goal after the baby comes is to to really step it up and be back to my pre baby size…within 6 months….we shall see….
Lesley´s last blog ..Feeling like I’m cursed….
Twitter: thezenmama
March 13, 2010 at 8:33 am
I love food and definitely obsessed. One of my favorite health websites is Zen to Fitness.
Happy SITs Saturday Sharefest and Happy Birthday! It’s my birthday, too!!
Wishing you a Happy Birthday! Thank you for the info about Blogger on SITS this week. Also these two websites are great, thanks again. C :).
Favourite Vintage Finds´s last blog ..Charming Vintage Style Eggs
Twitter: MadeNSecret
March 13, 2010 at 9:11 am
My fitness tips are pretty much non-existent at this point, since I’m preggers. I lose weight the first half of all of my pregnancies then gain the last half, so I have to make myself try to eat as healthy as I can.
With that said, the best thing I can do is to try to limit the “junk” eats in my house, the cookies, cakes, pastries, ice cream, chips, etc. I can’t handle the temptation… but at the same time, I will allow myself to eat something sweet when I really want it, otherwise I feel like I’m neglecting myself.
Happy birthday, and Happy SITS Saturday!!
Rhonda´s last blog ..Five Question Friday
Twitter: Geezees
March 13, 2010 at 9:13 am
Happy Birthday! Hope you have a wonderful day!
Stephanie @ Geezees´s last blog ..Sweetest unique gift for your granny, mema, nanny
I use to be so good at exercising and then I went back to work full time and it is a constant stuggle to find the time! Maddie and I are walking in an area 5k and it is the motivation that got me back on track…I like your goals and love the increase water idea :)
I am so happy to have found your blog this morning! I am new to blogging and still figuring a lot out. I appreciate all of your tips!
Happy SITS Saturday!!
Wendy´s last blog ..Traditional Focaccia Bread
Twitter: green monkey 27
March 13, 2010 at 9:24 am
Happy Birthday and thank you for posting the tips AND I had no idea I needed to back up my blog. I backed up my template (still in search of the perfect template).
Monkey’s latest blog is called FLAT IS WHERE ITS AT! imagine that :)))
but here is a link to my recent favorite (so hard to pick just one)
http://greenmonkeytales.blogspot.com/2010/02/fancy-pants.html
enjoy YOUR day! Best, Shannon aka Green Monkey
Happy Birthday!
And you’re absolutely right. The key to success is in moving more. Everything else seems to fall into place when we get adequate exercise.
Karen´s last blog ..Face it Friday! Week 11
Schedule a time each day to work out.
Twitter: shellthings
March 13, 2010 at 9:54 am
Stopping by to wish you happy birthday!
My motivation: mirrors. And keeping the clothes that I want to be able to wear out and visible.
Shell´s last blog ..Baby Mama Drama
Stopping by from SITS- happy birthday!
My motivation: write down every single thing i put in my mouth. I am currently back on weight watchers, and even if I have a meal (or a whole day) where I don’t track my points, I still make myself write down what I ate. i hate looking back and seeing “9 Thin Mints and a 20 oz. Coke” written for my lunch.
Twitter: MrsMandiM
March 13, 2010 at 10:12 am
Happy Birthday!!
I have absolutely no tips… I am in the same boat as you! Although I guess one thing that has helped me is having a friend to work out with everyday(ish). Hope you have a great weekend!!
Mandi Miller´s last blog ..A Post From The Husband…
I drink a LOT of water…at first you go potty…a LOT. But then you get used to it, and will feel SO much better. If I don’t get 3 liters a day, I feel like a prune!
Happy Birthday!!
Twitter: VWalkerMK
March 13, 2010 at 10:18 am
Happy Birthday! I hope you have a great day!!
Visiting after reading today’s SITS email!
I have been lucky enough to not have to worry about weight issues due to a high metabolism and a job as a dance teacher. However, I did learn through an article I had read that standing burns more calories than sitting. It was suggested that if you can do more activities daily while standing (standing at a computer desk rather than sitting, etc.), it is just an adjustment that can make a difference. I personally enjoy doing activities around the house that require some physical activity (gardening, yard work, walking to our local bank and grocery store located a few blocks away instead of driving on nice weather days). Do something enjoyable so you’re not limited to an “exercise regime”.
Vanessa´s last blog ..~* Recipe of the Week *~
Happy Birthday! I struggle with weight, and can’t wait to check out the 2 sites you mentioned.
Twitter: gaylejack
March 13, 2010 at 10:21 am
You are so awesome! Not only do you blog, help bloggers blog, parent with future creations in mind, but you exercise too? I’m not worthy!!!!!!!!!!!!
Will you please eat a piece of cake for your birthday, pat yourself on the back and know that there are people in the internetverse who think you are awesome? (Like me!) Happy Birthday and God Bless the SITstahs!
Gayle aka Kafka’s Sister
Gayle´s last blog ..This Week’s Mom Moment: Empathy
Hi! Happy Birthday! And thank you for another wonderful SITS Saturday. You ladies have changed my blogging life with your site and I am so grateful for your Internet mixers!
My mantra? Simple. Calories in. Calories out.
And the thing about fitness is it IS a chore and it’s so easy to push it to the side. I have a workout partner. That is a HUGE motivator. The gym doesn’t care if I don’t show up, but I know she’s waiting for me and I hate to pick up the phone and make up some excuse because I know she sees right through it.
If it’s not a gym day, I try to exercise first thing in the morning because as the day gets longer, my resolution gets weaker. Also too, even if it’s just 10 minutes, that’s something. People who really hate to exercise, might find it more helpful to have like, 3, 10 minute sessions spread out through their day. Just walking, jogging, calisthenics, yoga or anything.
And as a woman, I have found the easiest way to streamline my body is through weight training. I love a program at the Y called body pump.
One more tip and I’m done. I try to stay with the theme if it’s not a natural food, I stay away. Processed foods are not only so unhealthy, it’s where all the calories like to hang out. I try to eat as naturally as possible. That doesn’t mean a cupcake doesn’t find its way into my mouth, but with moderation, of course.
joann mannix´s last blog ..Lessons I Am Learnin’ You Today—You Are Welcome
Twitter: GrandmasCooking
March 13, 2010 at 10:52 am
First of all, Happy Birthday!!!
I’ve been on and off with my diet and exercise also ever since I had my daughter 8 years ago. When I was close to turning 30 two years ago, I worked out and ate healthy and was in the best shape of my life on my 30th birthday! I guess I felt so bad about being 30 that I wanted to feel and look younger. Now, 2 years later, I can’t even put one leg in those shorts I wore that summer! I’m starting to fit workouts in when I can. When I workout, I naturally eat healthier and drink more water. So, that’s my goal.
Alison´s last blog ..2 days left to enter my Giveaway!!
Twitter: forloveorfunny
March 13, 2010 at 10:55 am
Happy Birthday, Sharon!!
Lynn from For Love or Funny´s last blog ..Spring Optimism
Twitter: birthstory
March 13, 2010 at 10:58 am
Happy birthday!
Staying fit is a challenge. I try to work out in the morning, after everything is done I have to do. But if I don’t do it, the next day, working out is my first priority. Also, I think learning to love vegetables is really important. If you can get to the point where you crave a big plate of sauteed spinach instead of a bowl of ice cream, you’re halfway home.
Thanks for those websites! I think I’mgoing to use one of them :)
Oh, and you have a Happy Birthday!!!
sarah´s last blog ..Holy wow….Friday?!
Twitter: forloveorfunny
March 13, 2010 at 11:14 am
Shannon,
I’m a doofus!! I keep addressing my comments to you by calling you “Sharon” when I know perfectly well that you are “Shannon!” My apologies! My buddies are Sharon and Shannon, and I’m forever calling them the wrong name!!! Uhg! I need a cupcake! Warmly, Lynn
Lynn from For Love or Funny´s last blog ..Spring Optimism
Twitter: AnaliFirst
March 13, 2010 at 11:20 am
I have to add more exercise to my routine too. I love food, but really don’t eat that much. My downfall is not exercising enough. Well, today is another day. I need to get moving! Thanks for the inspiration and happy birthday to you! ; )
Anali´s last blog ..List of Movies – Oscars 2010
I have ramped up my exercise by taking up running. I used to walk but decided that even at my “mature” age I could do more. I also am shopping more in the produce section instead of the junk food section of my grocery store. I watched Oprah the other day when she was discussing food. There was a good quote. “The more you spend on your food, the less you’ll spend on health care”.
Carol´s last blog ..Dancing Shoes
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
and…..
Happy SITS Saturday Sharefest!
Suze´s last blog ..Sir Mix-A-Lot
Twitter: amandaaustin
March 13, 2010 at 11:43 am
Happy Birthday to you!Stopping by from SITS.
This is great advice. I too tend to put so much focus on food that I end up starving and then overeating. But when I exercise, I do feel better. I never really thought about it before!
Amanda´s last blog ..Snuggies: No longer just humiliating for humans
Twitter: balancedmoms
March 13, 2010 at 11:43 am
Oh happy birthday!!!! My birthday is tomorrow, yeah for Pisces ;)
Well, good luck on your weight loss endeavor! If you ever need some tips or what to know a great way to lose weight, you should check out the cleanse I talk about on my blog. You can find it under the Nutritional Cleansing tab in my nav bar. I lost 25 lbs and went from a size 10 to a 5 six years ago. I now cleanse about every 3 months to maintain, it’s awesome!!!
Crystal´s last blog ..Caught Off Balance
I think it is an accountability partner…It is much easier to stick with eating better and exercising with someone than without! Love this new blog!
Shannon King´s last blog ..~5Q Friday~
Twitter: LambAround
March 13, 2010 at 11:51 am
Happy Birthday! :)
My fitness advice is to increase your activity without a actually “working out”. What the heck am I talking about? Little things, of course! Walk once around the block each time you go to get your mail, take the stairs whenever possible, go bowling tonight, dance while getting ready in the morning or cooking dinner. All these little things add up – and you might discover that they can be pretty fun! :)
HGTV Dream Home: I Know Who’s Going To Win
Happy Birthday! Enjoy your special day!
Twitter: PhotogCynthia
March 13, 2010 at 12:00 pm
Thanks as always for the wonderful Happy SITS Saturday Sharefest information. I am backing up my blog as I type this.
Also – Happy Happy Birthday. I hope it is a great day and year for you. I am trying to dance around my kitchen every day…helps my mood, my body, and I seem to eat better when I do it. I’m awarding $200 to the person who most enthusiastically dances around their house in March. It’s not too late to enter. Would love it if that $200 went to you. http://bit.ly/bcXis4
Cynthia at A Shimmy In My Spirit´s last blog ..We’re Having A Party
Twitter: perpstu
March 13, 2010 at 12:03 pm
Happy birthday! What a great idea for a new blog, I have a few pounds that need to find a new home too, so I will definitely be following along!
Karin´s last blog ..Mission: Garden Restoration Begins Today!
Twitter: SonyaRK
March 13, 2010 at 12:05 pm
Happy Birthday!!!
Sonya´s last blog ..When It Rains It Pours
Twitter: ocfunguide
March 13, 2010 at 12:24 pm
It seems you are on the right track with choosing to focus on exercise instead of food. When I exercise my body naturaly wants clean and healthy foods and I don’t tend to choose foods like chips or greasy type choices. Good luck and keep us posted on your progress! Happy Birthday! I hope you have a fab day!
Twitter: speckleofdirt
March 13, 2010 at 12:46 pm
I’m currently doing Crossfit (www.crossfit.com) and it is a great way to stay in shape…my motivation is Hawaii in about 6 weeks…how sad am I! I also watch Biggest Loser and feel like working out right after watching it. Hope it all goes well for you!
Speckle of Dirt´s last blog ..#5 Frivolous Friday: Senate Bill 6345 (Cell Phone Frivolity)
Twitter: Babesabouttown
March 13, 2010 at 12:55 pm
Love the blog name – will be adding it to my list of Hot Blog Titles. And have a FABULOUS birthday. I hope this year brings you all that you have dreamed of and much more.
My favourite fitness tip is to find something I enjoy doing so it doesn’t feel like exercising. I’ve recently started Hula Hoop classes which are great for the abs, gives you a real buzz and is just a blast! Very excited to be teaming up with the instructor to offer classes to London mums soon too!
Babes about Town´s last blog ..You spin me right round baby
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I am so glad I popped by, because speaking of the fitness wagon, I MUST GET BACK ON! I am going to leave a link to a previous post of mine that is in the same vein as your post today :)
As for a tip… I do best when using the old buddy trick. I am much more likely to friend-up and actually go work-out if I feel that someone else is waiting on me. Though, procrastination has been a helpful tool in trimming extra poundage too. Either a hideous school assignment, or massive pile of housework, or a “conversation” that needs to be had – I love to run from all those things. Literally.
Good luck and I’ll be back to check your progress.
If you get a mo’ check out Flappity, Flap, Flap:
http://mehubsandchubs.blogspot.com/search/label/Me%20time