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My name is Laura and I'm 28 years old. I live in Illinois and work as a licensed veterinary technician. I am a runner, bookworm and obviously, an animal lover.I've been on this site since '05. I take hiatuses, but I'm never gone for good. I enjoy giving advice and I've made such lovely friends on this site that I couldn't imagine giving it up!
chat it up yo.
ps. here's my bestestestest friend.
I love him. You will too :)
advice
13/f hey, I really want to lose a few found like maybe 10-15 pounds. What can I do to achieve my goal by the end of the summer?
http://www.advicenators.com/qview.php?q=569112
Best of luck! :)
-Laura (20-f)
My boyfriend and I have decided that we would like to start going jogging together in the mornings. For the past year or so, neither of us have done any sort of significant physical exercise, maybe a bike ride once or twice a week.
Are there any experienced runners or joggers out there that could give us a few tips on how to get into running again. Naturally it is not as simple as just going out and running.
Considerig we're quite out of shape in terms of stamina and endurance, what would be the best way to start?
Any information would be much appreciated :)
I would start out with simply walking. Walk a mile. The next week, do 2, etc until you're used to regular physical exercise again. Make sure you stretch before each walk, too, so that you don't strain any muscles. You have to ease your body into running or you can really get hurt.
After a few weeks or so of walking, maybe try running a mile then walking a mile. This is what I did when I took a break from running then got back into it. I would alternate running/walking and it really helped build my endurance and strength back up!
I also saw that someone below me suggested shoes- I very much agree. Good shoes will change everything. I'm speaking from a lot of experience when I say, invest in some nice, comfortable running shoes :)
Best of luck! And if you have any more ?'s, feel free to inbox me!
-Laura (20-f-Runner)
I love to run. I've been diagnosed with fibromyalgia (basically widespread chronic pain for those uninformed), and exercise induced asthma, and am medicated for both, but it still sucks, and these problems get in the way.
I've been running nearly every other day since August, after a year off working out completely. I used to be able to run 5k in under half an hour, but that's the farthest I've ever run. I've always fashioned myself more of a sprinter, though. I'm very fast, but I can't seem to maintain. I'd like to change that.
I've tried limiting my speed - on a treadmill, I've been setting my jog speed to 6mph, which is almost uncomfortably slow for me, as I usually run at 6.5mph, but I've noticed more ability to keep going. I still can't get on a treadmill and just run for ten minutes. I keep having to walk, which interferes with my ability to just zone out, which is part of what I love about running.
But here's the thing, I don't just trot, or lightly jog. I really run with my whole body. I've come off the next day feeling like I did a back workout, or worked my abs.
How fast is too fast? Should I drop my speed further, even though I have a long stride? Should I change my stride? Has anyone else run into this problem, or have any ideas as to how to work up to being able to run more than 3 miles?
Thanks!
Do you stretch before you run? I've found when I'm lazy about stretching is when I have back pain. Stretching is very important, otherwise, you can really hurt yourself.
Otherwise, you need to be sure you break up your whole body running. Run at a fast pace for a few minutes, but then take a a minute or 2 to walk and relax your body.
When you just run with your entire body, you wear yourself out. Perfect example: If I'm really in a bad mood and just need to run, I will hop on the treadmill and run for like 3 straight miles. But then I have to stop and I feel kinda crappy. However, if I alternate running, lightly jogging and occasional short bursts of walking, I can go up to over 5 miles and feel awesome after my workout.
Overall- I'd suggest cutting down on the speed. Especially if you're hurting after your workout. Give your body a break! Run with jogging AND walking breaks in between and let your body build up to the point where you can intensely run for longer periods of time.
If you need more help, just send something to my inbox! Best of luck!
-Laura (19-f)
I plan on eating healthy and working out.
I'm 5'5" and 145 pounds
http://www.advicenators.com/qview.php?q=569112
Best of luck :)
-Laura (19-f)
Anyone have any good ways to gain weight in your legs ?? I gain weight everywhere but there ! I hate chicken legs !!
Start running. I run a lot and I've built up a lot of muscle in my legs.
You can also try biking or hiking. Even using the leg machines at the gym is a good start.
However, it does take time to build muscle. Especially in your legs.
-Laura (19-f)
19/f
Okay so here is the deal. I live with my boyfriend and his mom two sisters and their boyfriends hahaha and well we each teamed up for a weight loss competition, cause we are all a little to a lot over weight. Anyways, i am about 5'3" 1/2 160 pounds and my boyfriend is 6'0 even but is 375. He is more than willing to try he is just afraid of getting a lot of loose skin if he were to lose the weight and I sometimes lack motivation. ANYWAYS what are some tips and tricks to that we can do together that is fun to help us lose weight and get us onto the road of getting more in shape? Oh and to win the competition of course :)
Sincerly, T
http://www.advicenators.com/qview.php?q=569112
Best of luck!
-Laura (18-f)
I am a 22 year old female. I am 5'5" and weigh about 245 lbs. Eekkk! Yeah, I know that is really bad and I am working on it. My goal weight is between 140-160lbs. Definitely would much rather have it be closer to the 140 end but I would honestly be happy to be at 160. I have a gym membership and I haven't really been going until recently. I am serious about losing this weight but I need some help. I don't know what sorts of workouts I should be doing, for how long, etc. And I don't want to be told to just get on a treadmill and run for 5 miles because that is something I can't do, at least not right now. I also want to tone up pretty much all areas of my body and I know you can use weights and what not but I don't know about sets and all that fun stuff. Any and all help would be greatly appreciated in reaching my goal.
http://www.advicenators.com/qview.php?q=569112
From there:
Now, on to every body's favorite: EXCERCISE! I know, you're probably groaning at the word and you're probably thinking "But I don't even like exercising! It SUCKS." And that's where my first tip (and all the others, eventually) comes in:
1. Keep a positive state of mind!
- If you tell yourself you can do it, you can. If you tell yourself you're going to do it, you will. Be positive! And know that in the end, it will all be worth it.
2. Find YOUR exercise.
- For me, it's running. I love to run and I do it whenever I have time. For some people, it's bike riding or swimming or Kick-Boxing. Find some sort of physical activity that you enjoy, and do it!
3. Just like with your diet, don't be afraid to try new things.
- I recently took up Yoga (something I never thought I'd like, because I have the coordination of a Slinky.) I actually really enjoy it. So, try something new. Take a Tae Bo class, go for a bike ride or even just keep it old school and try out some new equipment at the gym.
4. Also like with the healthy diet, make a plan.
- Pick which days every week that you will work out, and write it down. Mark it on your calendar: "work out day", then on the next day "rest day". Stick to your plan, and if you find yourself busy on the day you're supposed to work out, make sure to work out the next day.
5. Which brings me to my next point- don't over do it. Start out slow.
- Know your limits, and give yourself time off each week. Maybe start out with working out 3 times a week for 30 minutes. Then, gradually increase to 3 days a week for 35 minutes, then 4 days a week, etc. Push yourself, but know where enough is enough. Everybody has their limits, and nobody knows yours better than you.
6. Make a PUMP UP PLAYLIST!
- My running playlist, no joke, is what keeps me going. I made a big playlist of songs that pump me up and make me want to run harder, or run that extra mile. So, find songs that pump you and get you going, make a playlist, and listen to them every time you work out.
7. Find a work out buddy!
- I'm not going to lie- this is not my style at all, but it might be yours. Personally, I love running on the treadmill all by myself with nothing but a wall in front of me and Hollywood Undead blasting through my headphones. But if you don't like being alone when you work out, find a friend to go with you. Ask a friend to take a class with you, or go for a run with you. It's really rewarding to some people, and it might help you out more than you'd think.
Now that you have what you need to start eating healthy and to start a work out plan, I have a few tips other tips to keep you going over the course of your weight loss.:
1. Keep track of your progress.
- Write down how you feel after a work out. I have Post It notes on my mirror with words like "Energized" and "Confident", because that's how I feel after I work out. You can try this tip, too.
2. Don't obsess.
- Do NOT weigh yourself every day. Weigh yourself once a week TOPS. And if you don't see progress at first, don't freak out. You have to know that it's going to take time, and results aren't instant. Instead, think of what IS instant: do you have more energy? I bet you do! Are you feeling better about yourself? I bet you totally are!
3. Reward yourself.
- When you reach a milestone (like losing 10 pounds or something), celebrate! Buy yourself a new pair of jeans or do something that makes you happy to reward yourself.
4. Incorporate your healthy lifestyle into other areas of your life.
- Walk to work or school. Invite your friends over for a Yoga party, or a healthy dinner party!
Good luck, and if you ever need more help, send something to my inbox! :)
-Laura (18-f)
It sounds a simple question. I want to lose around 2 stone, i'm currently running for about 30-45 minutes (trying to build that up) and i'm using my workout DVD for as long as I can. What kind of meals should I have?
http://www.advicenators.com/qview.php?q=569112
It's simple: don't eat fatty foods. Replace sugary foods with fruits.
-Laura (18-f)
Kay i hate my freaking stomach!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Its not huge but its big enough and i dont know how to lose it i tried alot of things that i put together myself but since i put them together i feel like its not really gonna help, if that makes sense! long story short i was wonder does anyone have a workout plan/diet that could help me lose my tummy by january???????? pleaseeeee lol im 5'6 1/2 5'7 & i weight bout 190, big i know =/ oh & im a female! I think my tummy is about 15 pounds at most! Thanks in advance guys.
http://www.advicenators.com/qview.php?q=569112
Start by cutting out fatty foods and replacing them with healthier alternatives. Once you've got that down, hit the gym or find a fitness class (kickboxing, spin class, etc.)
Good luck! :)
-Laura (18-f)
I'm 15 &nd I want to exercise what should I do to lose weight quick I want to lose like 30 pounds because I'm over weight what exercise will make me lose weight the quickest ?
http://www.advicenators.com/qview.php?q=569112
-Laura (18-f)
i have a few extra pounds around my stomach area and inner thigh area. how do i get rid of it? , then how do i tone the rest of my body?
http://www.advicenators.com/qview.php?q=569112
Good luck!
-Laura (17-f)
im 15 years old, 5'1- & weigh about 164. i am a runway, print,& commerical model. and i need to loose a lot of weight, fast. so i cant really stop eating, its just not going to happen, i cannot eat healthy. what exercises should i do to help me loose weight? and how many times a week for how long a day?
http://www.advicenators.com/qview.php?q=569112
-Laura (17-f)
Hi,
i want flat stomach,i tried running, dancing, jumping but whatever i try, no good. my stomach is my worst feature and i cant go to a gym
can you tell me an exercise routine that can get me a flat stomach?
http://www.advicenators.com/qview.php?q=569112
:)
-Laura (17-f)
Okay. I'm 20yrs old, Female, about 5'3ish and I weigh around 155. Most of my weight is in mystomachand love handle area, I just started walking, I can't really run, cause of my quick weight gain and it puts strain on my knees, I only I guess "speed" walk on a treadmill for abou 15mins. I'm also on the debo shot (been on it for almost a yr in Nov) and I know that makes you gain weight, so I plan on changing that also.
I just need to know of any good websites, that I don't have to pay for to help me with a meal plan. Keep in mind that my daily life is VERY different, I work a 3rd night shift and sleep during the day (not all day just from 8am-4pm, getting the full 8hrs) Or if there are any deits things I can buy to help me weight lost go a little faster, I've never been this big and I'm startin to feel really uncomfortable about my self, and that is nothing like me, I was 105 for the longest time an I have gained so much weigh with inthe past yr and half.
I just need some sort of good advice on what my best bet is going to be with losing ths weigh that i have gained.
http://www.advicenators.com/qview.php?q=569112
-Laura (17-f)
so everyone is telling me in order to lose weight i have to diet but noone is being specific! what is a good diet like i kno about some fasting my cousins did and it work i jus need to kno specific foods or diet & fasting names or something cause idk what to eat & not too. and how much should i run i need to lose like 10 ta 15 pounds off my belly thanks in advance !!!
http://www.advicenators.com/qview.php?q=569112
From there:
As far as how to obtain that goal goes, start with changing your diet. This is the biggest thing, and it will have the biggest effect on you. Make a meal plan if you have to, and STICK TO IT. Find alternatives to junk food. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Replace ice cream with sorbet.
2. Replace potato chips with baked chips.
3. Replace pop with fruit juice and/or water.
4. Eat fruits for snacks.
5. Replace white bread with wheat bread.
6. Pack your own lunch for school/work; don't buy.
7. Don't be afraid to try new foods. Try new, healthy recipes.
8. Control your portions. Make sure you're eating just enough to fill you up. Stop when you're full; don't stuff yourself.
9. Don't use diet pills. They don't work. They're a waste of money and time. The best way to lose weight and get healthy, is to do it NATURALLY. There is not miracle weight-loss pill.
10. Change up what you eat. Keep it healthy, but don't eat the same thing at every meal. You'll get bored, and you're more likely to stop eating well if you eat the same thing.
And most importantly: DON'T CRASH DIET. When you starve yourself, you screw up your metabolism. When you screw up your metabolism, it's harder to lose weight. Crash Diet = Worst possible "diet" EVER.
-Laura (17-f)
Im not fat, but my legs do carry a lot of my weight. ive been trying super hard to work it off( i eat very healthy, i run at 2 miles every day, i have volleyball practice for 3 hours and its all running). the weight just doesnt seem to go off. i really want to loose the weight because im starting high school and i dont want to be critized because of my legs. please help.
http://www.advicenators.com/qview.php?q=569112
-Laura (17-f)
i eat healthy and exercise regularly but im not entirely happy with my body. it sounds really shallow but occasionally people bring up comments that really hurt me.
my upper body im absolutely fine with but from my bust downwards i really dont like. i have a thin waist but i dont like the fat on my belly and my bums quite big :S my lower leg is quite thin but my thighs are really big. when i look to the side of me in the mirror i hate my body shape.
i dont know what to do to make me have the figure i want because i dont seem need to change anything as i am a healthy person, but im building up moe fat in the places i dont want.
please help.
http://www.advicenators.com/qview.php?q=569112
Good luck! :)
-Laura (17-f)
okay im 18 years old and i weight 179. most of the weight is in my stomach & i hate it!!!! its flabby & i have love handles and it makes me feel so insecure. i tried the gym but it doesnt make me smaller jus make muscle where the fat is so its still jus as big. i even asked the pharmacist if any of the weight lost pills work and he basically told me no. idk wat to do please someone help me !!!!
http://www.advicenators.com/qview.php?q=569112
That will help!
-Laura (17-f)
Okay so I need some tips on losing weight. I'm not fat! But, I just want to lose weight cause everyone is thin around me. So, I work out everyday (for the past 9 months)..and I sometimes don't eat a lot. I know, it's unhealthy, but I'm never hungry =/. So my question is..how can I lose weight fasterr?
http://www.advicenators.com/qview.php?q=569112
:)
-Laura (17-f)
I need to lose weight and/or I want to get healthier. Can you help me out and give me some tips?
First off, weight loss takes patience. Second of all, it takes commitment. You can't eat healthy and work out one week, then binge on junk food and work out one day the next week.
That being said, before you start on your weight loss journey, set a goal. Decide how many pounds you want to lose or what you want to accomplish. It can be as simple as losing 5 pounds or just having more energy during the day. But it can also be a long-term goal, like losing 50 pounds and keeping it off. Just make sure that you keep it realistic and that you don't expect too much out of yourself. Set a realistic goal, and keep it in mind.
As far as how to obtain that goal goes, start with changing your diet. This is the biggest thing, and it will have the biggest effect on you. Make a meal plan if you have to, and STICK TO IT. Find alternatives to junk food. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Replace ice cream with sorbet.
2. Replace potato chips with baked chips.
3. Replace pop with fruit juice and/or water.
4. Eat fruits for snacks.
5. Replace white bread with wheat bread.
6. Pack your own lunch for school/work; don't buy.
7. Don't be afraid to try new foods. Try new, healthy recipes.
8. Control your portions. Make sure you're eating just enough to fill you up. Stop when you're full; don't stuff yourself.
9. Don't use diet pills. They don't work. They're a waste of money and time. The best way to lose weight and get healthy, is to do it NATURALLY. There is not miracle weight-loss pill.
10. Change up what you eat. Keep it healthy, but don't eat the same thing at every meal. You'll get bored, and you're more likely to stop eating well if you eat the same thing.
And most importantly: DON'T CRASH DIET. When you starve yourself, you screw up your metabolism. When you screw up your metabolism, it's harder to lose weight. Crash Diet = Worst possible "diet" EVER.
Now, on to every body's favorite: EXCERCISE! I know, you're probably groaning at the word and you're probably thinking "But I don't even like exercising! It SUCKS." And that's where my first tip (and all the others, eventually) comes in:
1. Keep a positive state of mind!
- If you tell yourself you can do it, you can. If you tell yourself you're going to do it, you will. Be positive! And know that in the end, it will all be worth it.
2. Find YOUR exercise.
- For me, it's running. I love to run and I do it whenever I have time. For some people, it's bike riding or swimming or Kick-Boxing. Find some sort of physical activity that you enjoy, and do it!
3. Just like with your diet, don't be afraid to try new things.
- I recently took up Yoga (something I never thought I'd like, because I have the coordination of a Slinky.) I actually really enjoy it. So, try something new. Take a Tae Bo class, go for a bike ride or even just keep it old school and try out some new equipment at the gym.
4. Also like with the healthy diet, make a plan.
- Pick which days every week that you will work out, and write it down. Mark it on your calendar: "work out day", then on the next day "rest day". Stick to your plan, and if you find yourself busy on the day you're supposed to work out, make sure to work out the next day.
5. Which brings me to my next point- don't over do it. Start out slow.
- Know your limits, and give yourself time off each week. Maybe start out with working out 3 times a week for 30 minutes. Then, gradually increase to 3 days a week for 35 minutes, then 4 days a week, etc. Push yourself, but know where enough is enough. Everybody has their limits, and nobody knows yours better than you.
6. Make a PUMP UP PLAYLIST!
- My running playlist, no joke, is what keeps me going. I made a big playlist of songs that pump me up and make me want to run harder, or run that extra mile. So, find songs that pump you and get you going, make a playlist, and listen to them every time you work out.
7. Find a work out buddy!
- I'm not going to lie- this is not my style at all, but it might be yours. Personally, I love running on the treadmill all by myself with nothing but a wall in front of me and Hollywood Undead blasting through my headphones. But if you don't like being alone when you work out, find a friend to go with you. Ask a friend to take a class with you, or go for a run with you. It's really rewarding to some people, and it might help you out more than you'd think.
Now that you have what you need to start eating healthy and to start a work out plan, I have a few tips other tips to keep you going over the course of your weight loss.:
1. Keep track of your progress.
- Write down how you feel after a work out. I have Post It notes on my mirror with words like "Energized" and "Confident", because that's how I feel after I work out. You can try this tip, too.
2. Don't obsess.
- Do NOT weigh yourself every day. Weigh yourself once a week TOPS. And if you don't see progress at first, don't freak out. You have to know that it's going to take time, and results aren't instant. Instead, think of what IS instant: do you have more energy? I bet you do! Are you feeling better about yourself? I bet you totally are!
3. Reward yourself.
- When you reach a milestone (like losing 10 pounds or something), celebrate! Buy yourself a new pair of jeans or do something that makes you happy to reward yourself.
4. Incorporate your healthy lifestyle into other areas of your life.
- Walk to work or school. Invite your friends over for a Yoga party, or a healthy dinner party!
Good luck, and if you ever need more help, send something to my inbox! :)
-Laura (17-f)