Monday, October 8, 2007

Questions

Weigh In: 275.5
Five Day Average: 274.3

Calories Counted: 2009


There's a bunch of doubt going through my head these past few days.

1) Am I eating the right things? If not, why has everything I've done worked for the past 11 months, and why is it not working now? Today I had bananas for breakfast, a bowl of shredded wheat with 1% milk, a packet of tuna (with mustard, no bread), tilapia for dinner with some Lipton lowfat noodles and a salad (lettuce, light parm cheese and fat free italian dressing - only 2 tablespoons). I feel like I'm pretty spot on with this, but let's look a bit closer.

2) Is my scale accurate? I really don't want to deal with a second scale. I've been noticing lately that when I first step on it, and then step off and step back on, I'm getting different readings. They're usually only a 1/2 pound off - but they used to be exact every time. I really, really don't want to introduce another scale into the picture. Been there, done that.

3) Should I alter the diet? Should I move to more supplements or a 'strict diet' for a while?

It's been a struggle. Through August and September, I kind of half-assed it. I mean, I was in the gym, but the diet was 'so-so' when it could have been stellar. However, here in October, the calories have been on target. The workouts have been strong. And yet, I'm higher now than when the month started. It's hard to deal with.

As for those of you who think I shouldn't weigh myself every day, let me at least mention why I can't do that. First off - I'm addicted to the scale. I feel responsible to it. I know that I have to report to it every morning, so it's a part of my routine. I do accept that I'm going to deal with more stress and fluxuation than I would if I weighed in every week, but I know myself - if I weighed in once a week, I'd "do OK" on days that were close to the weigh-in day, but then I'd slack off and not feel responsible when I knew I had 5 or 6 days before the weigh-in day.

So, I stick to the scale weigh in every day, even if it's a bit stressful. It's worked like a charm since Day One, so I'm a bit hesitant to change things.

This is what I had today for meals:

Nutrition Report

Fat - 11.9% (28 grams)
Protein - 26.5% (138 grams)
Carbohydrates - 61.6% (320 grams)
Alcohol - 0.0%
Other - 0.0%

Daily Sodium Intake - 3,226 mg
Daily Cholesterol Intake - 289 mg
Daily Fiber Intake - 34 grams
Nutrition Grade

A-


I notice that my sodium's high, but now that I look closer, this is something that's been high since day one. I drink between 2 and 4 liters of water a day, and plenty of bananas (high potassium) so that helps with the sodium. I should probably look to lower that number a bit - but honestly, I don't think that it's THAT big of a factor - especially considering that I've been around this sodium intake number ever since day one. However, I'll try to lower that.

Other than that, I feel like I'm doing ok. To you guys (and gals) who know more about the science of this and the breakdown between proteins/carbs/fats, etc - how does the rest of this stack up? And for those of you who have a pretty well set up diet - how are you combating whatever looks wrong?

I'm working too hard to see these damn numbers keep going up. I've always preached that "Hard Work Brings Results" - but that hasn't been the case lately. I need to look closer at this - so, advice?

8 comments:

billy said...

You have been dieting for almost a year. This was bound to happen. My suggestion? Change it up.

Let me be a dick for a second.

I feel like I've made suggestions to you before that you seem into, but then you fail to implement them. I understand where you're coming from, I used to do the same thing. I would be comfortable with what I was doing and not want to change too much, and my results would suffer. Sooner or later, you need to surrender yourself to the advice and you will reach the next level.

So here's the advice:

The new workout I sent you, I want you to do it to a T. No skipping, no subbing (unless we talk about it), and no excuses. You say you can't figure it out. Keep reading it over, all the info should be there. I'm on IM from 930-530 every day, and you can also email me with any specific questions and I'll be more than happy to answer.

My second recommendation is your nutrition. Let's take a look:

I think you need more protein and healthy fats, and less carbs. I don't stick by percentages, but I think that would help.

I don't want you eating any refined carbs. No bread, pasta, "lowfat noodles" (what the hell is that? Noodles are no good!) or any crap that comes in a box. Vegetables, vegetables, and more vegetables. Some beans and legumes, more vegetables, and some more vegetables. A little fruit in the morning, and maybe a little bit of brown rice after a good workout.

I want you to be less processed. Fresh meats, eggs, vegetables, beans, nuts, fish, fowl, lowfat milk, cottage cheese, etc.

Did I mention, vegetables?

"Lean and Green". It means lean meat and veggies/beans.

Get out of your comfort zone, Tuck. You can do this. Don't starve yourself, either.

Brian said...

I think what Billy says looks really good. Eat clean, change your workout routine up so it is a bit less comfortable, and go into this with a clean mental outlook. By that I mean, make yourself a clean slate and forget everything you know. Just start over again. I bet that 99% o your problems right now are mental. You're worrying about everything too much. Relax and learn to somehow enjoy this.

Kevin A. said...

When you started this thing out, it was all brand new - your diet, working out, etc. Go back to that. Make everything brand new. Maybe that will get things moving.

Be patient. This is a marathon, not a sprint.

Jim McCoy said...

The most important thing is not to lose heart. Do what Billy says, he knows what he's talking about OBVIOUSLY. That should be all you need.

Ripx180 said...

Not to preach at the choir but I agree with everyone else Rob. Do what Billy is recommending. It really is solid advice and you will loose weight. You pretty much have a personal trainer in Billy who's willing to work with you. I would take it..... Billy you want another client? Rob maybe you and I should have a little competition and up the stakes a little.... I am freaking ready for change.

Marcol said...

Rob heres my take and its from an educated perspective based on my personal training studies and other info that I stay on top of...

Although your nutrition report gives you an "A" its based on the general guidelines for the average healthy american. But close inspection shows that your Carbohydrate intake is TOO high and your protein definitely too low and your fat could stand to be tweaked a bit.

It appears you may have a carb intolerace and because of this you should consume less. Like I think Billy stated you should try to get your carbs from veggies not pasta and breads.

I would need more specific info help you tailor your intake but it does need work. If youre interested you know my email.

One reason what has worked for 11 months isnt working anymore your body at that time just needed to have minimum changes to produce results for you. Now youre a lot smaller so your diet and exercise need to be spot on for real. Pasta isnt spot on Rob, sorry.

Hit me up if youre interested...

Anonymous said...

I can't really add to what's been said. Good advice. The carb reduction is what worked for me. Good carbs, less carbs.

Anonymous said...

First of all...how do you feel?
The numbers game has a lot of equations to it. Building muscle increases weight, while burning fat or excessive body food shows a loss on the scale. The 300 mark was pivotal. You're way below that now. Follow Billy's advice. It's good stuff. But also remember...don't sweat the small stuff. Your numbers have shrunk, and will continue to shrink. Eat what you know is good for you... it's not always the weight loss food...You're doing fine. Keep it simple. The losses (gains) will continue. Like I've always said..."you cannot fail at something work diligently at."

Dad