Long time lurker... finally saying hello!

[KatieElizabeth]

Hey everyone! I've kind of lurked on this site for the past... oh... few months. I never posted because it took me darn near forever to get over my shyness (yes, even internet shyness).

The last couple of months I've really been taking time out for myself. My body has been a constant struggle for as long as I can remember. I was very active as a child, involved in lots of sports, and always on the move. But unfortunately I never quite had the "same body type" as my friends. However, now I'm 20 and as much as I hate admitting it, I've finally realized that what physical shape my body is in and what can be done about it is all up to me.

About nine weeks ago, a coworker and I joined Weight Watchers. I never thought I'd be part of such a group, but let me tell you... those are some of the most supportive people I've ever met. Since joining, I'm down 18.8 lbs.

Aside from dieting (or making a lifestyle change, as I see it) I've also started working out. Right now I'm working out usually 5 or 6 days a week, depending on my always changing schedule. Luckily, I'm taking a personal fitness course at my school so with that I know I'll at least be getting in 3 decent workouts a week. In my class we're required to do 20 minutes of cardio and the remaining 30 or so minutes in the weight room. When I'm outside of class I seem to focus on cardio, usually for around 75 minutes or so. I guess being in a weight room for me involves too much thinking... what should I do now? What do I need to do? Blah blah blah.

Anyway. It has been darn near forever since I've felt this good about myself and I'm pleasantly surprised that I actually ENJOY working out. My older brother has been hardcore into fitness for as long as I can remember so he's a great support system along the way. He's always full of advice and tips to make my workouts (and diet) a little better and more enjoyable. In the next couple of weeks I plan on joining his gym and he's talking to a few of the trainers there to see if there is one of them who might be a good fit for helping me along.

I guess I've said WAY more than I planned. I didn't really mention any goals, but I figure every time I make some sort of progress, I'm reaching a mini goal. Whether I lose another pound, run a little faster, or surpass my 100oz./day of water... its something, something more than I was doing.

But hey... hello everyone!

[cabezon]

Good for you for making a change. 18 pounds in 9 weeks? Awesome! keep up the good work. I am crazy about running, so i would support you in that, and even go so far as to encourage you to enter a 5K for this spring. I just signed up the wife and I for my favorite 5K in May, she doesn't know yet.

Welcome

[E36Guy]

Wow.. welcome! Very nice to hear such good things right off. Thanks for finally posting to say hello.

You probably know all our dark secrets by now.. and we know nothing of you. (Well.. i guess we know a little about you now)

Anyway, keep us updated on your progress as Im sure Im not the only one who loves to hear about others progress. Keep up the good work.

[KatieElizabeth]

Lol I know no dark secrets... should I? Haha!!!

[E36Guy]

Uhh.. no that's okay.

[Bimmer325]

Welcome.

[bellavus]

congrats!