So...Where Was I?

Pylon · 02-16-2008, 05:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Triple Threat

After you eat what's remaining, right?

Nah, she cleared it out pretty good.

Scarface30 · 02-17-2008, 09:44 AM

sounds like you're doing good in here, definitely on top of everything

a minor splurge here and there never hurt anyone.

Pylon · 02-18-2008, 05:41 AM

Problem is my minor splurges tend to last a few days. Didn't go off the deep end, so that's a minor victory, I suppose.

Saw this post, thought I would share. Interesting stuff.

Overcoming Weight Loss BS

So I'm wearing my Exercise Scientist hat today, and my Psychologist cardigan, and my steel-capped, ass-kicking boots. I will be blunt, but honest, and possibly politically incorrect. I will also possibly say what you don't want to hear.

Feel free to look away - now.

Hmm, still here huh?
Thrill-seeker.
Crazy kid.

Even though I've spoken way too much, for way too many years about getting in shape (in the course of my work) and I'm kinda over it, recent events have compelled me to write this post. It seems we're still missing the point when it comes to losing weight and fat (effectively and permanently). Permanent weight loss – there’s a concept! If you, or someone you know, needs to lose weight, pay attention and/or pass this post along.

Conventional Thinking
Conventional thinking tells us that losing weight is essentially a physiological process; lift this, run there, stretch that, get your heart rate up, increase your incidental activity, decrease your calorie intake, no carbs after three (‘cause that’s gonna do it) and increase your overall energy expenditure. Mostly good advice.

Traditional approaches (by the medical profession and the fitness industry) tell us that weight loss is essentially about three key variables; exercise, food and lifestyle. Oh yeah, and more education. And to a point, they are right. But only to a point.

I'm here to tell you that while exercise, food, lifestyle and education are indeed important variables in the process, without doubt, the biggest determinant of weight loss (or gain) is what's going on in that nine pound (four kilo) thing sitting on the top of your shoulders. For the most part, it determines success or failure.

The Psychology of Weight Loss
Interestingly, the psychology of weight loss is rarely discussed or taught (in any depth) by the experts and in my humble opinion, that's because many of them don't get it. ‘It’ being the head stuff that goes with the body stuff. If you have been, or are currently, overweight, then you absolutely know that losing weight is first and foremost a psychological and emotional process.

I was a fatty (200lbs, 90kgs at fourteen) and when I got my head in the right place, my body followed. I thought different, chose different(ly) and created different. For some people their obesity is merely a symptom of their thinking, their standards and their beliefs.

Q. What really determines weight loss (or gain)?
A. Attitude, thinking, self-control, mind-set and ultimately, decisions.

We know what to do. But we don't do what we know. We've never been more educated. Yet we've never been fatter. We've never had more resources. And we've never made more excuses (heard them all). We've never had more reasons to lose weight. And we've never wasted more time.

The Quick-Fix Society
Many people don't want to hear this message because it's too fundamental and obvious. And it requires real effort, sacrifice, work and self-control. “Whatever you do Craig, don’t mention the ‘D’ word (discipline) and please don’t talk to me about self-control again.” No, we'd rather talk about weight-loss theory number ten million or the latest 'breakthrough' pill, powder, potion, product, gizmo or gadget. Or that amazing new weight-loss book. 'Cause we need another one of those. We want quick, easy, convenient and painless. We are soft. We are precious, lazy and lack self-control. We are the quick-fix society. And the instant-gratification generation. And the fat generation.

We want an answer that doesn't require effort or sacrifice on our part. We don’t want to acknowledge that we are the answer – and the problem. And it is this mentality which keeps us (us, the society) fat. If the answer to Global obesity was in fact, more education, information or resources, then we would all be getting leaner by the day because we've never been more educated, informed or equipped when it comes to diet, exercise, lifestyle and all that 'obesity-related stuff'.

Some Food for Thought (no pun intended).

(You can still look away at any time).

1. External change needs to be accompanied (or preceded) by, internal change (for it to be lasting).

2. Most people who lose weight regain it (over 95%) because they haven't really changed their attitude or thinking. They change their behaviors for a while but deep (deep, deep) down they haven't really changed their core thinking, beliefs, attitudes or standards. On a subconscious level many people are waiting for it (the diet, the fitness kick) to be over, so they can go back to being 'normal'. And even when they do eat less and exercise more they (often) slide into a deprivation mentality - constantly telling themselves that they're 'missing out'.

3. If we tell ourselves that losing weight will be a painful, horrible process - it will be (for everyone). Attitude = outcome.

4. The sooner we stop looking for ‘easy’ and start looking for ‘effective’, the sooner we'll start to see real (forever) change.

5. Weight-loss martyrs are a pain in the ass - "I've been so good... I've been so good."

6. While food, exercise and lifestyle are important ingredients and variables in the weight-loss process, it is the thing on top of our shoulders which determines how we eat, exercise and live, which in turn determines our physiological state.

7. The fat person with all the knowledge, education and resources... and a crap attitude, will stay fat.

8. The fat person with limited knowledge, resources and genetic potential.. and a great attitude, will produce much better results every time.

9. The sooner we stop getting in shape for 'events' (weddings, birthdays, reunions, parties) and start getting in shape for life, the sooner we'll start to see forever results.

10. The fitness industry and medical profession often have a one-dimensional approach to weight-loss; physical. This is ignorant, naive and ineffective. Losing weight (effectively) is a complex, multi-dimensional process (physical, emotional and psychological).

11. Losing weight is not about finding the right program, diet, supplement or drug; it's about finding the right attitude.

12. Many (okay, most) fat people make excuses and tell lies. A lot. Just ask the ex fat kid. Yes, I know this sounds offensive but if you had experienced the thousands of conversations with as many fat people as I have, you'd know that I'm telling the truth. You can get offended or educated; it's a choice.

13. By the way, 'fat ' is not an insult (in this discussion), it's a physiological state.

14. The sooner we call fat what it is (as opposed to deluding ourselves by calling each other full-figured, big-boned, heavy-set and voluptuous) the sooner we will get serious about addressing obesity in a real, practical, no bullshit way. Perhaps we should worry less about political correctness and more about heart disease, diabetes, bowel cancer and the plethora of other obesity-related conditions.

"Whatever you do, don't mention the 'F' word.. you might hurt her feelings; she's not fat, she's voluptuous!".

15. We love to play the blame game. We wanna blame someone or something for our obesity. It's a time thing. It's a genetics thing. As long as it's not a 'me' thing. Otherwise I might have to get off my ass and take responsibility for my fat self.

Written by Craig Harper

kiko · 02-18-2008, 06:41 AM

The article is right on the money. I used to be a fat lazy couch potato. One day I decided to change my life and in less than a year I lost 80 pounds. I still haven't reach my goal but I'm close to it. The keys are having the right attitude, will power and motivation.

Pylon · 02-18-2008, 11:56 AM

Back in the gym today....

WU - 1 mile run (on the track. No more treadmill for me when I have a choice. Interestingly, I found the track easier to work with, probably because I can vary my speed as needed.)

DB flyes - 20s x 10
SS smith squat - 90 x 10 (just realized this should have been smith incline press. Doh!)

DB pullover - 40 x 10
SS CG pulldowns - 90 x 10

Deadlift - 135 x 10

Went light to ease into the lifts. Feel really dumb about the squats, but did get really low on them, so not a total loss I guess.

Scarface30 · 02-18-2008, 12:41 PM

lol, I've done that a couple times. makes you feel like a fool.

good stuff though Py, nice and easy back into the weights

Triple Threat · 02-19-2008, 05:01 PM

Despite all the distractions in your life, it's good to see you're still taking some time for yourself.

Pylon · 02-19-2008, 06:53 PM

Thanks, Trips. It gives me something positive to focus on.

soxmuscle · 02-19-2008, 08:13 PM

I prefer the track to running on a treadmill as well.

Are you doing your own kind of intervals?

b_reed23 · 02-19-2008, 08:43 PM

to making time for yourself...sometimes you have to for your own sanity

Fitgirl70 · 02-20-2008, 10:31 AM

I like the article...it is so true

Pylon · 02-20-2008, 11:15 AM

Lifting day...

WU - bike, 5 min; leg press, 210 x 10

Leg ext - 150 x 10 + hold
SS Leg press - 310 x 10 + hold

rotary calf press - 310 x 10 + hold

track run - 1 mile, 14:14

Moving into finding my weight ranges. Getting heavier, but still too light. Threw in the run just to up the ante a bit. I'll try to cut that time down each time, but it's not bad considering I had the Jimmy legs after lifting.

Scarface30 · 02-20-2008, 01:45 PM

I can understand the wobbly legs. great session Py

the other half · 02-20-2008, 03:11 PM

running or leg day, what the fuck i will do them both.
youre one sick person.

Pylon · 02-20-2008, 08:05 PM

Thanks fellas. The weights are still light, but with the slow HD cadence (2/1/4/1), and the static holds, it was a good day.

Found an interesting site today. It will give you a visual display to show what you are eating, by cubes of sugar, sticks of butter, and batteries (to represent caloric energy). Kind of interesting.

Foodsel - Welcome

**Gazhole** · 02-21-2008, 04:39 AM

Looking good man

Weights and track in the same day must have been brutal, my knees would have fucked off down the pub :P

Pylon · 02-21-2008, 07:14 AM

Mine tried, but I drove there and they don't know where I keep the car keys. (Which is odd, since the pocket is right above them. They aren't very observant.)

katt · 02-21-2008, 07:44 AM

That's a cool website Py... it amazes me sometimes what you can find on the web...

Pylon · 02-21-2008, 08:27 AM

No doubt. The batteries are interesting, but the sugar cubes and butter are downright scary.

stubborngrl · 02-21-2008, 08:29 AM

great site

**never eats butter again**

b_reed23 · 02-21-2008, 08:45 AM

that is pretty cool!!

nice workout too!

**Gazhole** · 02-21-2008, 09:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pylon

Mine tried, but I drove there and they don't know where I keep the car keys. (Which is odd, since the pocket is right above them. They aren't very observant.)

Stupid knees, they dont have opposable thumbs anyway!

Pylon · 02-21-2008, 06:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gazhole

Stupid knees, they dont have opposable thumbs anyway!

Yeah...who need's em?

the other half · 02-22-2008, 10:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pylon

Yeah...who need's em?

i have just a small attachment to mine thank you.

what i meant was that i like mine.

Scarface30 · 02-23-2008, 08:32 AM

think there are going to be any big trades between now and the trade deadline? Forsberg isn't returning this year, so Ottawa will have to look for someone else now. Hossa will be a huge acquisition if he goes anywhere, and Sundin and Campbell might be on the move. going to be pretty interesting.

02-17-2008, 09:44 AM	#452
Scarface30 C'Nucked Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Halifax, Canada Posts: 1,674 Photos: 2	sounds like you're doing good in here, definitely on top of everything a minor splurge here and there never hurt anyone.
	Warning: Seismic Testing Zone

02-18-2008, 05:41 AM	#453
Pylon Squishy Elite Member Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Missing...presumed having a good time Posts: 6,377 Photos: 3	Problem is my minor splurges tend to last a few days. Didn't go off the deep end, so that's a minor victory, I suppose. Saw this post, thought I would share. Interesting stuff. Overcoming Weight Loss BS So I'm wearing my Exercise Scientist hat today, and my Psychologist cardigan, and my steel-capped, ass-kicking boots. I will be blunt, but honest, and possibly politically incorrect. I will also possibly say what you don't want to hear. Feel free to look away - now. Hmm, still here huh? Thrill-seeker. Crazy kid. Even though I've spoken way too much, for way too many years about getting in shape (in the course of my work) and I'm kinda over it, recent events have compelled me to write this post. It seems we're still missing the point when it comes to losing weight and fat (effectively and permanently). Permanent weight loss – there’s a concept! If you, or someone you know, needs to lose weight, pay attention and/or pass this post along. Conventional Thinking Conventional thinking tells us that losing weight is essentially a physiological process; lift this, run there, stretch that, get your heart rate up, increase your incidental activity, decrease your calorie intake, no carbs after three (‘cause that’s gonna do it) and increase your overall energy expenditure. Mostly good advice. Traditional approaches (by the medical profession and the fitness industry) tell us that weight loss is essentially about three key variables; exercise, food and lifestyle. Oh yeah, and more education. And to a point, they are right. But only to a point. I'm here to tell you that while exercise, food, lifestyle and education are indeed important variables in the process, without doubt, the biggest determinant of weight loss (or gain) is what's going on in that nine pound (four kilo) thing sitting on the top of your shoulders. For the most part, it determines success or failure. The Psychology of Weight Loss Interestingly, the psychology of weight loss is rarely discussed or taught (in any depth) by the experts and in my humble opinion, that's because many of them don't get it. ‘It’ being the head stuff that goes with the body stuff. If you have been, or are currently, overweight, then you absolutely know that losing weight is first and foremost a psychological and emotional process. I was a fatty (200lbs, 90kgs at fourteen) and when I got my head in the right place, my body followed. I thought different, chose different(ly) and created different. For some people their obesity is merely a symptom of their thinking, their standards and their beliefs. Q. What really determines weight loss (or gain)? A. Attitude, thinking, self-control, mind-set and ultimately, decisions. We know what to do. But we don't do what we know. We've never been more educated. Yet we've never been fatter. We've never had more resources. And we've never made more excuses (heard them all). We've never had more reasons to lose weight. And we've never wasted more time. The Quick-Fix Society Many people don't want to hear this message because it's too fundamental and obvious. And it requires real effort, sacrifice, work and self-control. “Whatever you do Craig, don’t mention the ‘D’ word (discipline) and please don’t talk to me about self-control again.” No, we'd rather talk about weight-loss theory number ten million or the latest 'breakthrough' pill, powder, potion, product, gizmo or gadget. Or that amazing new weight-loss book. 'Cause we need another one of those. We want quick, easy, convenient and painless. We are soft. We are precious, lazy and lack self-control. We are the quick-fix society. And the instant-gratification generation. And the fat generation. We want an answer that doesn't require effort or sacrifice on our part. We don’t want to acknowledge that we are the answer – and the problem. And it is this mentality which keeps us (us, the society) fat. If the answer to Global obesity was in fact, more education, information or resources, then we would all be getting leaner by the day because we've never been more educated, informed or equipped when it comes to diet, exercise, lifestyle and all that 'obesity-related stuff'. Some Food for Thought (no pun intended). (You can still look away at any time). 1. External change needs to be accompanied (or preceded) by, internal change (for it to be lasting). 2. Most people who lose weight regain it (over 95%) because they haven't really changed their attitude or thinking. They change their behaviors for a while but deep (deep, deep) down they haven't really changed their core thinking, beliefs, attitudes or standards. On a subconscious level many people are waiting for it (the diet, the fitness kick) to be over, so they can go back to being 'normal'. And even when they do eat less and exercise more they (often) slide into a deprivation mentality - constantly telling themselves that they're 'missing out'. 3. If we tell ourselves that losing weight will be a painful, horrible process - it will be (for everyone). Attitude = outcome. 4. The sooner we stop looking for ‘easy’ and start looking for ‘effective’, the sooner we'll start to see real (forever) change. 5. Weight-loss martyrs are a pain in the ass - "I've been so good... I've been so good." 6. While food, exercise and lifestyle are important ingredients and variables in the weight-loss process, it is the thing on top of our shoulders which determines how we eat, exercise and live, which in turn determines our physiological state. 7. The fat person with all the knowledge, education and resources... and a crap attitude, will stay fat. 8. The fat person with limited knowledge, resources and genetic potential.. and a great attitude, will produce much better results every time. 9. The sooner we stop getting in shape for 'events' (weddings, birthdays, reunions, parties) and start getting in shape for life, the sooner we'll start to see forever results. 10. The fitness industry and medical profession often have a one-dimensional approach to weight-loss; physical. This is ignorant, naive and ineffective. Losing weight (effectively) is a complex, multi-dimensional process (physical, emotional and psychological). 11. Losing weight is not about finding the right program, diet, supplement or drug; it's about finding the right attitude. 12. Many (okay, most) fat people make excuses and tell lies. A lot. Just ask the ex fat kid. Yes, I know this sounds offensive but if you had experienced the thousands of conversations with as many fat people as I have, you'd know that I'm telling the truth. You can get offended or educated; it's a choice. 13. By the way, 'fat ' is not an insult (in this discussion), it's a physiological state. 14. The sooner we call fat what it is (as opposed to deluding ourselves by calling each other full-figured, big-boned, heavy-set and voluptuous) the sooner we will get serious about addressing obesity in a real, practical, no bullshit way. Perhaps we should worry less about political correctness and more about heart disease, diabetes, bowel cancer and the plethora of other obesity-related conditions. "Whatever you do, don't mention the 'F' word.. you might hurt her feelings; she's not fat, she's voluptuous!". 15. We love to play the blame game. We wanna blame someone or something for our obesity. It's a time thing. It's a genetics thing. As long as it's not a 'me' thing. Otherwise I might have to get off my ass and take responsibility for my fat self. Written by Craig Harper
	"For beverages, I only drink water or whiskey and when I’m drinking whiskey, it’s usually when I’m working out. It gives me the courage to lift more than I can when I’m sober." - C. Bratton Fresh Start Journal

02-18-2008, 06:41 AM	#454
kiko Registered User Join Date: Sep 2007 Posts: 362	The article is right on the money. I used to be a fat lazy couch potato. One day I decided to change my life and in less than a year I lost 80 pounds. I still haven't reach my goal but I'm close to it. The keys are having the right attitude, will power and motivation.
kiko Registered User Join Date: Sep 2007 Posts: 362

02-18-2008, 11:56 AM	#455
Pylon Squishy Elite Member Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Missing...presumed having a good time Posts: 6,377 Photos: 3	Back in the gym today.... WU - 1 mile run (on the track. No more treadmill for me when I have a choice. Interestingly, I found the track easier to work with, probably because I can vary my speed as needed.) DB flyes - 20s x 10 SS smith squat - 90 x 10 (just realized this should have been smith incline press. Doh!) DB pullover - 40 x 10 SS CG pulldowns - 90 x 10 Deadlift - 135 x 10 Went light to ease into the lifts. Feel really dumb about the squats, but did get really low on them, so not a total loss I guess.
	"For beverages, I only drink water or whiskey and when I’m drinking whiskey, it’s usually when I’m working out. It gives me the courage to lift more than I can when I’m sober." - C. Bratton Fresh Start Journal

02-18-2008, 12:41 PM	#456
Scarface30 C'Nucked Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Halifax, Canada Posts: 1,674 Photos: 2	lol, I've done that a couple times. makes you feel like a fool. good stuff though Py, nice and easy back into the weights
	Warning: Seismic Testing Zone

02-19-2008, 05:01 PM	#457
Triple Threat ... Elite Member Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Lost Posts: 9,384 Photos: 4	Despite all the distractions in your life, it's good to see you're still taking some time for yourself.

02-19-2008, 06:53 PM	#458
Pylon Squishy Elite Member Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Missing...presumed having a good time Posts: 6,377 Photos: 3	Thanks, Trips. It gives me something positive to focus on.
	"For beverages, I only drink water or whiskey and when I’m drinking whiskey, it’s usually when I’m working out. It gives me the courage to lift more than I can when I’m sober." - C. Bratton Fresh Start Journal

02-19-2008, 08:13 PM	#459
soxmuscle do work son Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: I will eat your face Posts: 8,113 Photos: 10	I prefer the track to running on a treadmill as well. Are you doing your own kind of intervals?
	Age: 20 \| Height: 5'7" \| Weight: 150 lbs \| Penis: 12 inches

02-19-2008, 08:43 PM	#460
b_reed23 this is why I'm hot! Elite Member Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: West Tennessee Posts: 5,189 Photos: 34	to making time for yourself...sometimes you have to for your own sanity
	My Journal!

02-20-2008, 10:31 AM	#461
Fitgirl70 Give it to me Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Dallas Posts: 7,367 Blog Entries: 7 Photos: 4	I like the article...it is so true
	All the glory to God! We have a baby on the way.

02-20-2008, 11:15 AM	#462
Pylon Squishy Elite Member Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Missing...presumed having a good time Posts: 6,377 Photos: 3	Lifting day... WU - bike, 5 min; leg press, 210 x 10 Leg ext - 150 x 10 + hold SS Leg press - 310 x 10 + hold rotary calf press - 310 x 10 + hold track run - 1 mile, 14:14 Moving into finding my weight ranges. Getting heavier, but still too light. Threw in the run just to up the ante a bit. I'll try to cut that time down each time, but it's not bad considering I had the Jimmy legs after lifting.
	"For beverages, I only drink water or whiskey and when I’m drinking whiskey, it’s usually when I’m working out. It gives me the courage to lift more than I can when I’m sober." - C. Bratton Fresh Start Journal

02-20-2008, 01:45 PM	#463
Scarface30 C'Nucked Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Halifax, Canada Posts: 1,674 Photos: 2	I can understand the wobbly legs. great session Py
	Warning: Seismic Testing Zone

02-20-2008, 03:11 PM	#464
the other half loyal fan since 1972 Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: northwest Posts: 1,357 Photos: 5	running or leg day, what the fuck i will do them both. youre one sick person.
	"katt's spotter" " its not how much u can benchpress. its how much other people think u can." bob chicherillo

02-20-2008, 08:05 PM	#465
Pylon Squishy Elite Member Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Missing...presumed having a good time Posts: 6,377 Photos: 3	Thanks fellas. The weights are still light, but with the slow HD cadence (2/1/4/1), and the static holds, it was a good day. Found an interesting site today. It will give you a visual display to show what you are eating, by cubes of sugar, sticks of butter, and batteries (to represent caloric energy). Kind of interesting. Foodsel - Welcome
	"For beverages, I only drink water or whiskey and when I’m drinking whiskey, it’s usually when I’m working out. It gives me the courage to lift more than I can when I’m sober." - C. Bratton Fresh Start Journal

02-21-2008, 07:14 AM	#467
Pylon Squishy Elite Member Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Missing...presumed having a good time Posts: 6,377 Photos: 3	Mine tried, but I drove there and they don't know where I keep the car keys. (Which is odd, since the pocket is right above them. They aren't very observant.)
	"For beverages, I only drink water or whiskey and when I’m drinking whiskey, it’s usually when I’m working out. It gives me the courage to lift more than I can when I’m sober." - C. Bratton Fresh Start Journal

02-21-2008, 07:44 AM	#468
katt Registered User Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Pacific Northwest Posts: 4,048 Photos: 37	That's a cool website Py... it amazes me sometimes what you can find on the web...

02-21-2008, 08:27 AM	#469
Pylon Squishy Elite Member Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Missing...presumed having a good time Posts: 6,377 Photos: 3	No doubt. The batteries are interesting, but the sugar cubes and butter are downright scary.
	"For beverages, I only drink water or whiskey and when I’m drinking whiskey, it’s usually when I’m working out. It gives me the courage to lift more than I can when I’m sober." - C. Bratton Fresh Start Journal

02-21-2008, 08:29 AM	#470
stubborngrl Registered User Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: canada Posts: 24	great site never eats butter again

02-21-2008, 08:45 AM	#471
b_reed23 this is why I'm hot! Elite Member Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: West Tennessee Posts: 5,189 Photos: 34	that is pretty cool!! nice workout too!
	My Journal!

02-23-2008, 08:32 AM	#475
Scarface30 C'Nucked Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Halifax, Canada Posts: 1,674 Photos: 2	think there are going to be any big trades between now and the trade deadline? Forsberg isn't returning this year, so Ottawa will have to look for someone else now. Hossa will be a huge acquisition if he goes anywhere, and Sundin and Campbell might be on the move. going to be pretty interesting.
	Warning: Seismic Testing Zone