vackerman's Journal, 20 Sep 10

Do you find that at some point you gained weight when you started exercising? 

Monica, I've gained a couple of times through these last couple of months. Usually around my cycle, only to plummet the week or so after. I know we've all heard about muscle weighs more than fat....Personally I've not seen that this time, but probably partially because I have SOOOO much weight to lose. The biggest thing that seems to make a difference for me is drinking LOTS of water. It's not naturally something that I do. I feel a bit like a camel, I don't often get all that thirsty. But when I slide back into those camel habits and don't drink, that's when I start putting on weight...not sure what the real connection is there, but it makes a difference. If I stay adequately hydrated it accomplishes two things I feel more full so have an easier time meeting my eating targets and the weight just seems to melt off. Don't get me wrong this is definitely work. But compared to the other times in my life I've tried to lose weight this has been relatively easy as long as I stay focused and don't let the exercise, water or the eating habits slide. The main thing it has taken is focus for me. Everyone is different and I'm sure as I get anywhere in the neighborhood of my goal it will probably become more difficult to lose the weight. The main thing is to stick with it after a few weeks you feel yourself getting stronger and having an easier time with your workout. You'll also start noticing small changes in your body (for the better). That will help fuel your motivation. The biggest thing is to find an exercise that you like. I don't by nature like to get sweaty...but I know it's necessary. I have found the Zumba DVDs to personally be the best thing for me. I have a treadmill and use it some. In the beginning I thought that would be the main thing I used...the time drags on and on, but with Zumba the time just flies and since I love music it feels more fun... Sorry for such a rambling answer. Hope this helps.... 

Yes. It helps a lot Thanks. I have been doing Slim in 6 and felt like I was building muscle. I am now ready to continue doing a variety of workouts whether it be Yoga, Pilates, Cardio or Walking... I am tempted with Zumba as I too like to dance. I thought my kids would like it too. I had two back surgeries, so it is important not to over stress my body during workout. The only thing is I am not too coordinated. Thanks for the rambling. It helps.  

The coordination will come. The main thing is to enjoy the music and just keep moving. The other thing that's really nice is you're truly learning real dance steps, it's only when you do some of the toning workouts that it more resembles aerobics. Variety is a good thing. Thankfully with Zumba I got a set of 5 DVDs so I can mix and match to keep interested and spice things up. Best of luck!