Anyone out there in my situation?
Stats:
Age: 26yrs,
Height: 5'3 ft
Weight: 118-119lbs
Have lost about 15-16lbs (from 134-118)
For the first time in years, I weigh what I want to weigh and that is thanks to CC and all the info you guys give. Can I maintain my weight without exercise? I live in The Netherlands now but in a few months I will go back home (Africa) and my routine and diet will completely change.
For one thing, I will have lots of fresh food and less of junk and processed food, which is good (but then junk food has not been my specialty)
My biggest concern though is putting on this weight back. I will have absolutely no time to exercise - as of now my exercise is climbing stairs twice a day for 20 minutes each. That is the only exercise program I have been able to stick to. The rest, I can't stand. But when I go back, I won't be able to do it because I don't live in a high rise building like here.
I have also been able to stop eating after 7pm. I won't be able to do that too, since during that time, I am traveling back home, (I work out of town). My day starts at 5am and ends at 7-8pm.
I can try walking but sometimes when you are really bombed out from a long day at work, walking home in the blaring traffic, crazy drivers and unsafe neighborhoods doesn't sound too appealing! I can also go swimming on the weekends (if I can find the time) but will that be enough? I don't have/can't afford exercise equipment or gym membership so that is not an option.
I am so happy with my progress, I hate to see it go down the drain!
Another thing, is there a way to lose weight that doesn't affect your upper body? My collarbones are showing in an unattractive way and cheeks are a little hollow but I am happy with my lower body. People are making comments and I hate to agree with them but it is true. Could it be because they are not used to my new look? I don't plan to put on weight to get their approval because this is about what makes me happy, but can I fix my upper part without necessarily putting on weight?
Thanks in advance
You can maintain your weight without exercise, but it's best if you keep some form of exercise in your lifestyle. Even if it's walking. You will have to keep your calories lower than when you exercised as well.
As for your second question, no you cannot target where your weight is lost. Sorry.
Height - 5'3''
Weight - 119lbs
down 35lbs from 154
I'm pretty sure you could maintain without working out, however, I can't. I need to work out at least 3 times a week for at least half an hour of incresed heart rate. Of course, this is probably partly because I love to eat, but I think that as long as you stay within your alotted calories for your height and weight (I'm guessing for you is 1600 - 1800) you should be fine. The key is eating healthy. : )
Much like the other ladies have said, pretty much, calories in - calories burned. If you cannot exercise or get a workout in your day, just remember, you cannot have the other peice or a little snack or treat. Bottom line: Calories in, calories burned.
Exercise is important, I like to call it physical activity. Anything you do above what you normally do, will be beneficial to your overall health, well being and mood. Your toned body will thank you, as will your heart and then mind. If you can fit in a walk after a stressful day, gosh, that's the best thing you can do for you! Imagine, stressful day. Go home. You have two choices: sack out in front of the tv and munch on food and more food; or you can take a destressing walk !
On the spot weight loss - no. You cannot tell your body where to lose weight. I know. I have lost the boobies and butt (not what I wanted !!! ) Weight is lost where it wants to be lost and usually it's the place (s) you do not want to lose.
Good luck to you. Sounds like you're on the right track (as far as eating is concerned) - stay on it !
What I do when I can't fit in a bike ride or a walk is run in place for 20 mins in front of the TV watching something that doesn't require concentration. I, also, if I am watching junk tv that I have not tivoed, do resistance exercises during the commercials, a few push ups, sit ups and pull ups on a bar I have hung in my closet. This last takes about 15 minutes to 20 minutes and helps me feel less tired as well as burning up calories.

So you can keep track of what you eat - which enables you to analyze your foods and receive the following:
- Health Score of your overall diet
- Warning when you approach your daily calorie limit
- Overview of the good and bad nutrients
