Thread: Newbie on the scene

Peace,

So, I'm new on the scene. Was searching the net on nutrition/fitness when I came across IronM. Have read some really good posts. Very impressed so far.

I am a month in my journey to lose body fat and build lean muscle. More interested in getting toned then having a "muscular figure". I personlly find it more attractive as a woman to be more toned then overly muscular. Right now I am not much of either (LOL) but am doing great so far to reaching my goal. (I've got about 85 pounds to lose...have lost 17 already). I'm 5'10 and weigh 258 pounds. Most people see me and don't believe that I carry that amount of weight. But I do. I am at a record breaking all time high since recently having my second child.

So far the biggest changes I have made is cutting out all unnessesary sugars (soda's, jucie etc) I drink nothing but water and my protein shakes. Also eating 5-6 meals a day instead of the 2 HUGE meals, which has my glucose levels stabalized and I NEVER feel hungry. My diet is based on approx 1800 - 2000 cals daily @ 20/40/40. Fats/Carbs/Protein. I try to get in at least an hour of non-occupational exercise daily. I do weight training 3X per week (free weights of course) always followed by cardio, and every other day I go for an hour walk/jog.

My best friends who is in AMAZING shape has taught me so much. She has competed in figure 2X and has always placed 3rd 4th. The one single most important thing I have learned from her is that no matter how much cardio/weights you do...diet is KEY. Learning HOW...WHEN and WHAT to eat really determines whether you will succeed in your goal or not. It has to be consistant, and you really have to think in terms of a lifestyle rather then some new diet you are forced in to doing. Exercise is secondary to diet, but is also extremely important in shaping your body and maximizing your results. Since she has gotten me on her plan I have seen only great results (have lost 17 pounds in 6 weeks). The only thing I can say I am actually struggling with is getting enough cals in and making sure they are within my ratios of 20/40/40. I have a hard time getting over 1500 cals per day, so that I am working hard at.

So I thought I'd share the things that were shared with me....

I look forward to hearing other stories of success and even trial and errors... anything you can add to help me to reach my goal would be greatly apreciated!

Peace.

Welcome to IM! Sounds like you are headed in the right dirction. Good luck with your goals