day 22...some thoughts

[Thumper1616]

22 days on Atkins....I don't feel like I am losing as much as I would like to lose, but I also have alot to lose, and as my mother says....I didn't gain in all in a month, I'm not going to lose it in a month.

I think I've done good on induction. I may go over a bit on the veggetables, but they were honest mistakes. Since realizing a package of brocolli has 9 carbs...I opt for salad. I've tried new things (I haven't had boiled cabbage since the early 80's) and find them really tasty.

Yesterday I went to put on a pair of pants that I thought would be much loser than they were but they weren't....on the other hand, I did put on a pair of pants I haven't worn in about 8 months...although still a little tight to wear for a 9 hour day .

I'm really good with the water during the week (water cooler in office) but the weekends I tend to slow down...need to work on that. Still walking about 2 miles a day, need to step that up a notch as well.

I do have some exercise questions...what is the best thing for "love handles" and inner thighs?

Thank you.

[sallyseachange]

Re: day 22...some thoughts

Congrats on getting into pants you haven't worn for eight months! Isn't that a great feeling?
On the weight loss, I'd say that it's direction rather than speed, and your direction is good.
I'd certainly have some cabbage if you like it... just keep it to a reasonable portion size (carbwise) and remember to deduct the fibre from the carbcount. Or, if youre feeling pinched in induction, why not move to rung one of OWL. Many people lose more on the first rung than on extended induction and you don't have to rush up the other rungs... you can stay at rung one for ages if you want to.

[julirama723]

Re: day 22...some thoughts

Inner thighs--
Using a stability ball (those large inflatable balls, also called a Swiss ball or an exercise ball) push the ball against the wall. Lying on the floor in a crunch position, place the ball between your legs. Squeeze the ball 8 times, then pulse 8 times, hold for 8, pulse for 8, squeeze 8 times. Do 2 or three sets of these, really REALLY squeezing. You should never let go of pressure on the ball. These are great!

Love handles--
Honestly, the thing that is really getting rid of my love handles is strength training. My body shape has TOTALLY morphed into an hourglass shape from an apple/heavy in the middle shape. By doing exercises with free weights, I'm not only strengthening my arms and legs, I'm using my core muscles (back, abs, obliques) the WHOLE time for stability and balance.

Pilates is GREAT for strengthening core muscles. I've also noticed that I really slim down/tone up when I run often.

[Thumper1616]

Re: day 22...some thoughts

I don't think I've "run" since laps in high school..........

Thank you for the advice! I did buy two 5lbs weights and also a exersice band...
It's weird, my body shape really never bothered me...but I also never really LOOKED at it...now I look at it and I'm almost grossed out (love handles and that blob of fat on the inside of upper thigh).

Maybe this is the motivation I need to stick with this diet. Lord knows I don't think I've gone 21 days on any other diet without cheating here and there.

Thank you ladies for your support.