Better Body Goals-Accountability Thread [Archive]

Coradion

06-30-2013, 12:45 AM

While we have many individuals here who are larger and love themselves the way they are, which is great. I know there are some of us who would like better bodies. I've been working my way down from being not just fat, but obese since high school. According to my BMI I was obese, I was also in great cardio shape, but that's not how I wanted to look and that's not who I wanted to be. So I changed my workout routines, and have lost 75 pounds. I was 245 and am now 170. I still have a lot of way to go though. So for anyone else who has specific goals about fitness in mind this thread is for us. Post where you are now, where you want to be, and how you are going to do it. This is not a thread for discussing why it's okay to be the way you are, I get it. I really do, but I think I can be better and I'm not going to strive for what I WANT to be.

My goal is to lose another 10-15 pounds/tone up. I want a better chest, I've been doing push-ups daily. Each day I add another 20 to my total for the day. I'm at 180, I need to lose some weight to have a better stomach and really have my abs show, so I'm running 4 times a week.

What are your goals?

Usagi

06-30-2013, 01:44 AM

I would like to look like a Barbie. LOL
I want to lose like 10 pounds. Right now I weigh around 110-115. It's not a lot, but I'm only 5' 1" - 5' 2" and most of my weight is fat and not muscle. So my plan for this summer (hopefully) is to actually make use of my gym membership and tone my abs and arms. Thighs a little bit, but I could live with them the way they are because I would prefer my butt to get bigger, not smaller. Haha I hope I can lose some weight in my face because I have chubby cheeks and people always think I'm like 12. And the fat in my forehead! My god! I always have to look surprised because if I don't, gravity goes to work and I get neanderthal brow haha
I was also fat growing up. Like REALLY fat. Haha

So is your avatar you? Because if it is.....I don't see why you would want to lose any weight. Looks perfectly fine to me haha besides, who doesn't like their guy to be a little squishy? I don't see a washboard making a very good pillow :P But I know what other people say doesn't really matter..YOU have to be happy with the way you look, so I hope things work out for you!! (:

Joy&RaptorsUnrestrained!

06-30-2013, 05:14 AM

I want to lose my tummy and build muscle, maybe even some definition. I also want to build up my endurance, speed, and agility, not to mention my strength (though I am already stronger than I look). Weight doesn't mean much to me, though I am at 206lbs (I'm also 6 foot 2).

SeaGlass Siren

06-30-2013, 08:37 AM

I'd like to get rid of my "cellulite" and love handles. And "beer gut" (although I don't drink but I look pregnant) :/ for the most part im happy with my body shape when I slip into a dress... but when I wear bathing suits my fat just spills everywhere..

SeaGlass Siren

06-30-2013, 08:44 AM

I was also chubby growing up but after i hit high school i lost all of it because of the braces (couldnt atuff my face as much and physed was mandatory up until grade 11). I don't wanna go back to being chubby :(

Also, I agree with syd. Whats your workout routine?

MerAnthony

06-30-2013, 09:05 AM

I myself have never been chubby or fat. While growning up I had a very high metaboslim, so I was able to eat eat eat with out gaining an once. But sence I am now 44 an weigh around 170lbs. An stand 6 foot tall. That is my ideal weight for my hight, but I do have bit of a spare tire around my tummy I would like to loose. When I was in the ARMY back in 1988 an after basic training I had a 29 28 waist an a 42 to 44 inch chest. I was all muscle. I would like to get toned again enough so that I don't have this spare tire an tone up my chest again.

Merman Arion

06-30-2013, 09:14 AM

at this moment, i'm working out a lot to build more muscles and look like a fine merman in shape.

for now, my body is like this :

1216712168
1216912170

before i used to be skinny and now, i gained 15 kgs of muscle, it's not bad for a start. the main problem is that i can't think about getting a new tail until i have reached my long-term goal physically. I'm going to study to become a professional trainer like Chris Powell so i have to focus on what is really important to me. i'm young so i can do one dream at a time and i honestly believe that my merman dream can wait.

my goal is to be like him :

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Mermaid Oshun

06-30-2013, 09:39 AM

I am a 38G and have round hips and posterior. I am shaped like a cello. I used to be a smaller hourglass version of this but since got a little fuller. I wish to keep all of that! However, I want to tighten my tummy a lot. So spot fix somehow.
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deepblue

06-30-2013, 11:06 AM

Right now, I'm working to get back to where I was a few months ago, and then keep improving from there. I'd gotten to a great point of losing the belly and thigh flab, and toning both, and then had a health problem that laid me out for three months. Right now it's like I never worked out. It really kicked my butt.

I don't believe in weighing myself, personally. I can see where that might work for others, but I refuse to own a scale. I go by body shape, how I feel, and how my (one pair) of jeans fit. (I'm so freaking poor.. lol but I make nutrition my first priority for my daughter and I after rent and bills.)

And I go by how I look to myself in the mirror.

So my current goal is not easily put into words- at least to work out 40 mins 3 times a week to begin with- to a DVD I know works, it's worked for me before. Flatten my abs, tighten my butt, get rid of cellulite. But only I can see the improvement, I have no numbers to go with it. Until I go down one jeans size. I'll take measurements and pictures, perhaps I can share that here as a way to track this goal.

Those of us who have fitness goals but look 'great' or 'already thin' to someone else but still have goals to be better never hear the end of it, I know- Some of us want to build muscle over the thin, some of us just want to be great to ourselves. "But you look so good already" and "But you look better with a little more weight"- that is my biggest peeve, and for me personally, it ALWAYS comes from my friends who have serious weight related issues and shouldn't be teling anyone else about theirs. So I hope we won't see a lot of that in this thread. You can't tell by pictures, and if someone basically healthy wants to be even healthier, more power to them.

Great idea, this thread!

And off I go for my first workout in nearly a week- I've been fighting a respiratory infection and migraine and I can finally breathe well enough to work out again.

Coradion

07-01-2013, 05:35 AM

Usagi

07-01-2013, 05:58 AM

Coradion

07-01-2013, 06:06 AM

Let's make weekly progress photos. Every monday post your pic, no shame and no judgment. We're all starting somewhere different. That way at the start of every week we can see how far we've come and what we're working away from.

Coradion

07-01-2013, 06:15 AM

My Week 1

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Merman Arion

07-01-2013, 07:08 AM

Yep, profile pic is me. I could stay like am now and be okay with it, but like French Merman said, I want to achieve my ideal body before I make a new tail so it has a perfect fit.

I think everyone's fitness goals should be supported here no matter what they are. None of the "you'd look better with..." stuff. Just power up and power through.

I second that statement. It's a mistake to ask for a tail while working out to get a better body. I remember our sweet Raina saying that she had to fix her former tail when she lost some weights thanks to her work-out. So i believe that we all shall wait in order to get a perfect fit, especially if we pay for a silicone performance tail from Raven.

SeaGlass Siren

07-01-2013, 07:10 AM

I'm down for pictures.

Except I don't know how to upload straight from my phone :|

Merman Arion

07-01-2013, 07:55 AM

@French Merman...you have an awesome butt! I am jealous! Haha I feel like it would be considered scandalous for a girl to post a similar picture, though. I say we all post pictures of our butts! Lol but really, I think it would be cool if people could log their journey or whatever. Like post a picture at the end of every week or something. Maybe it'll help me get motivated :P
Right now, I am so unmotivated, it's not even funny. All I want to do is lay around and eat. My boyfriend is gone for the summer and I'm having a hard time dealing with it because he's my best friend and kind of my only friend and, most of all, my security blanket (he's been gone a week, but it feels like a month X.X). I am an awkward hermit, so going out is always a lot easier with him by my side. But he's not here, so I don't feel like going anywhere. YES, I am aware that I am pathetic haha but I told him I would get in shape for him over the summer...HELPPPPP.

Perhaps not staying up past 3 am would help. ~~(Ü)~~

@ Sydthefairebrat.. Thank you very much for your compliment. I could say that my bubble butt is my best asset so far LOL ;)
Before, i had no ass because i was skinny. Since then, i ate a lot, i went to the gym almost every day and now, i'm proud of the results. Now, gay men keep telling me that they love my butt, especially when i dance on stage at clubs :p

I'm going to tell you the secret of my big butt. it's mostly thanks to... *drum rolls* ... the Squat Challenge! :cool:

12203

You can do this at home, without going out. If you do this right, the results are going to show up quickly.
I just finished the challenge yesterday for June and now, this is my improved butt :

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Not bad isn't it? You should give it a try :)

SeaGlass Siren

07-01-2013, 08:00 AM

My bum is pretty flat.. Should def give this one a try.

MerAnthony

07-01-2013, 08:14 AM

I think I am up for it on the pictures. But on a sad note when it comes to the leg area of exercise I am a little restrained in that area. I have a slightly torn meniscus in my right knee an sence last year I was told that I have it, it still has not healed. So any amount of bending or climbing stairs an sometimes walking puts me in alot of pain, because my knee will swell an look like there is a grapefruit under my knee cap. But everything else is go.

Merman Arion

07-01-2013, 08:20 AM

My bum is pretty flat.. Should def give this one a try.

These pictures should give you some motivation. The Squat Challenge really works! :)

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Mermaid Oshun

07-01-2013, 08:32 AM

I do not want to lose weight and I already have ample posterior. So I will not hold off on making my mer tail. If anything I may do corset training for my tummy

SeaGlass Siren

07-01-2013, 08:58 AM

Pearl I totally wanna see before and after photos of the corset training!

SeaGlass Siren

07-01-2013, 08:59 AM

French, when you do the squat challenge does it include reps?

Joy&RaptorsUnrestrained!

07-01-2013, 09:19 AM

I've been trying to work out (lift weights, exercise machines, jog/powerwalk around the track) on MWF and swim on Tuesday, Thursday and weekends, but I admit that I look forward to swimming (mostly dolphin kick underwater, though I can tread water in various ways for an extended period of time, and I tend to practice freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and sidestroke (but not sunstroke) as well) far more than I do lifting. French Merman does indeed look hot already, but it's great to have goals to improve on as well. Coradion looks good as well... I will take some pictures with my webcam in a bit.

Mermaid Oshun

07-01-2013, 11:28 AM

Pearl I totally wanna see before and after photos of the corset training!

thanks but I dont think I will really be committed to this. My before pic is on the last page though.

deepblue

07-01-2013, 11:48 AM

You know... one thing I think a lot of people don't get about those of us who want to be in or keep up a great physical shape is that... it feels good. Yeah, it can hurt, but it's not like you broke a bone. It's the right kind of pain. And I love the muscle soreness the next day (and if it's really bad, kombucha tea can help get that lactic acide moving out of your muscles). It's victorious. Esp for someone like me who couldn't walk up a flight of stairs for the first 20 years of her life without having to stop and catch a breath, and who was in and out of ERs, and tested for cyctic fibrosis because my asthma was so fecking bad. Every workout is a victory, not a chore. Even on the days when I can barely make myself do it because I'm dealing with something in my array of mental challenges... it's a victory.

12203

It's a sign! I'll take it as one. :P Just laying here in bed, thinking I ought to add squats on in between workout days. And here's this challenge as a guide. Woot!

I think I am up for it on the pictures. But on a sad note when it comes to the leg area of exercise I am a little restrained in that area. I have a slightly torn meniscus in my right knee an sence last year I was told that I have it, it still has not healed. So any amount of bending or climbing stairs an sometimes walking puts me in alot of pain, because my knee will swell an look like there is a grapefruit under my knee cap. But everything else is go.

I can relate. When I first started physical activity and started working out, I ran on in between days (nothing compared to most, but I built up over time). But I broke my foot two years ago, and because I was on steroids for an ER asthma visit (turned out I couldn't live where I was and breathe), my foot bones went osteopenic in the cast. The bones deteriorated. I couldn't walk for six months, and had to relearn. So I can't go running or the impact of my weight could crack my foot bones. I have to be careful about the cardio portion of my workout, and I need to get an x-ray to check progress and see if my bones have rebuilt at all. I miss running a lot! I'd have to work back up, my asthma gave me a lot of constant trouble for a couple years there.

I like that we both can see it's not a reason to not work out... it's just something to work around.

Oh, and I can't do pics right now... my camera phone is my only camera and frankly it's too hard to get pics. I constantly forget that before I try.

Merman Arion

07-01-2013, 12:30 PM

French, when you do the squat challenge does it include reps?

@ SeaGlass Siren... Actually, the numbers are the reps that you have to do each day :)

Merman Arion

07-01-2013, 12:31 PM

Joy&RaptorsUnrestrained!

07-01-2013, 04:50 PM

My pleasure, A French Merman. Ok, my turn to bare all. Feast (or avert) your eyes!

Joy&RaptorsUnrestrained!

07-01-2013, 04:52 PM

Oh, and those pictures are taken right after I got home from a combination of tai chi class, walking over a mile on the track, and various weight machines (and a shower)

Mermaid Varshana

07-01-2013, 05:44 PM

I've committed to replacing at least half my diet with raw foods such as fruit, nuts, and leafy greens. Instead of eating waffles and processed soy "fauxsage" in the mornings, I'm eating yogurt stuffed with dried fruit and walnuts. Which, I might add, is an AMAZING appetite suppressant. I've lost about 3lbs (almost 1 1/2 kg) since I started about 3 weeks ago.

I started doing this after years of freaking out at the scale, and seeing how good one of my friends looks after eating more raw foods. I've gained about 15-20ish pounds (7-9kgs) in about 3 1/2 years. Granted, in that time, I've been on and off about 3 different birth control pills, but I've also eased up on a purging eating disorder that I've fought with for 8 years. This diet helps SO much with that. Any time you start recovering from most eating disorders, you're going to gain weight. I've only gone up 1 size in clothing, so this leads me to believe my muscles are getting more nutrients to grow more. I've always been an avid weightifter. Since I quit purging, I can now do arm curls with 35lb dumbells (up from 25).

Back in '10 I looked like this (NSFW, I am a nude art model for a living): http://i43.tinypic.com/n66oma.jpg

Now, I look like this (Again, no children, nude art photo): http://i43.tinypic.com/2l9kyme.jpg

I can't wait to see what I look like in a few months!

French Merman, NEVER lose that butt!

Echidna

07-01-2013, 07:10 PM

Thanks for the "HOT" comment ;)

erm, I'm not 100% sure, but I was under the impression you are the merman swimming in your signature?
Because that guy is certainly one of the best looking men I've ever seen.
I always like to see your posts and watch the sig for a while because it looks so much like a God of the Sea :D

(No, I'm not drooling. I'm asexual hehe.)

Merman Arion

07-01-2013, 07:33 PM

Merman Arion

07-01-2013, 07:38 PM

erm, I'm not 100% sure, but I was under the impression you are the merman swimming in your signature?
Because that guy is certainly one of the best looking men I've ever seen.
I always like to see your posts and watch the sig for a while because it looks so much like a God of the Sea :D

(No, I'm not drooling. I'm asexual hehe.)

Actually, the guy in my signature is one of the male leads in the new H20 serie in production. His name is Chai Romruen.
I'm working out a lot to be in the same good shape as him. I want to have the same stunning look with my future performance tail from Raven.
I agree that he's very handsome with his tail on. :p

Echidna

07-01-2013, 07:53 PM

Actually, the guy in my signature is one of the male leads in the new H20 serie in production. His name is Chai Romruen.

Ah, my bad.
Many mers use pics and gifs of themselves, so.

He's a good swimmer, too.
Might check out that new H2O. Hopefully it's now moved away from Highschool and teenies a bit? :p

Mermaid Varshana

07-01-2013, 07:58 PM

Ah, my bad.
Many mers use pics and gifs of themselves, so.

He's a good swimmer, too.
Might check out that new H2O. Hopefully it's now moved away from Highschool and teenies a bit? :p

Hey now, I'm 29 and I loved that show! It's what brought me here so nyeh! Lol

Echidna

07-01-2013, 08:06 PM

Never truly seen it- only found bits on youtube (of horrible quality too, phone uploaded- headache!), because it never aired in my country.
If it had, I probably would have watched it all and become a fan no matter what :)

I liked Sabrina down under, which is also more teen oriented and a comedy.
Aquamarine was just too silly for my taste though.

Merman Arion

07-01-2013, 08:17 PM

Girls, as much as i like the H2O serie, i think you are going way out of topic here.

Let's do our best to not troll the thread by respect for Coradion who created it.

Just a friendly reminder ;)

xoxo.

SeaGlass Siren

07-01-2013, 09:40 PM

@ SeaGlass Siren... Actually, the numbers are the reps that you have to do each day :)
Wait I'm confused... How many reps and sets? :( oh my god it's been forever since I've taken gym glass..

Merman Arion

07-01-2013, 09:50 PM

Wait I'm confused... How many reps and sets? :( oh my god it's been forever since I've taken gym glass..

Well, i think the picture is pretty clear already. :)
Day 1, you do squats 50 times/reps in one set. Day 2, 55 reps. Day 3, 60...
Basically, you add 5 reps every day except Day 4 where you need to take a break. Be really serious about this challenge or else, the results won't be good.
You have seen my improved big butt anyway and the examples that i showed earlier. Good luck! ;)

and remember the most important thing : No pain = No gain. :thumbs-up:

SeaGlass Siren

07-01-2013, 10:03 PM

Ohh ok xD that makes sense now. I'm good I did 50 today :)

Coradion

07-01-2013, 10:05 PM

The slower the better!

Usagi

07-02-2013, 02:14 AM

I just did 50..was desperate for water at around 30 haha too shy to post before shots.. :P

SeaGlass Siren

07-02-2013, 08:16 AM

Still tryin to figure out how on my phone :( all I can do is tweet :p ah first world problems...

I felt a lotta pain in my Gluteus Maximus and inner thighs this morning (actually its still morning here) and I just did another 55. Everytime I sit it's like sitting on one big ass *no pun intended* bubble wrap.

Merman Arion

07-02-2013, 08:52 AM

deepblue

07-02-2013, 12:23 PM

I've committed to replacing at least half my diet with raw foods such as fruit, nuts, and leafy greens. Instead of eating waffles and processed soy "fauxsage" in the mornings, I'm eating yogurt stuffed with dried fruit and walnuts. Which, I might add, is an AMAZING appetite suppressant. I've lost about 3lbs (almost 1 1/2 kg) since I started about 3 weeks ago.

Absolutely great idea. I attribute the first years of healing to the point where I could start working out to going 100% raw for six months. The benefits are still with me after 20 years. And I eat at least half raw anyway, my body likes the enzymes and I want the nutrients. My breakfast these days is citrus fruit and raw almonds, it satisfies and keeps one from getting hungry- the raw plant fats in raw nuts helps the sugars from the fruit release more slowly into your system over time. (Source: various PhDs giving lectures on nutrition at seminars I went to at the time. Kim and Jaime Dina are one couple who did, and wrote about raw nutrition.) Like I used to tell people when I worked the raw foods booth at an expo, every little bit counts.

Alas, I have to skip today's workout. I have the lung capacity of a three year old. Tomorrow I'll be able to get the herbs to fight off the last of this resp infection, and I'll be right back on track. I just don't have the oxygen today.

Mermaid Varshana

07-03-2013, 12:20 PM

I just wanted to sing the praises of raw diet again! I've lost a little more water retention weight, even though "Aunt Flo" is visiting right now. It's astounding how much water weight processed food will put on you.

Coradion

07-03-2013, 04:29 PM

Did my squats for the day, and finished have another 200 push ups to go for today. Everything hurts but there are already visible changes after just two weeks of push ups.

SeaGlass Siren

07-03-2013, 06:29 PM

Holy carp... 200?!? ....

I can't even do one ;-;

Usagi

07-04-2013, 08:00 AM

I forgot to do the second day..so I did them today (or yesterday, since its 5 am) but then I forgot to do the additional set! so it's now supposed to be my rest day and I have to do two sets! Haha

SeaGlass Siren

07-04-2013, 08:13 AM

I get a rest day today ^_^ it's not so sore anymore. I think tomorrow I'll do 70 no problem

Mermaid Oshun

07-04-2013, 08:30 AM

I wore my corset for the better part of the day yesterday Yea! That was hard for me because it is usually so uncomfy. I will try again today ;)

Mermaid Oshun

07-05-2013, 12:23 PM

I was able to wear my "training corset" 6 hours during the day yesterday and all night until 6am. Had to take it off until dinner digested and to bathe. I will try to work up to wearing it 24/7 and tightening the laces progressively. I can not eat much when I wear it or I feel as if I will pass out. So usually I have to take it off right after I eat. I am just amazed that I could keep it on last night while sleeping. Air conditioner helps.

Mermaid Varshana

07-05-2013, 12:56 PM

I'm so glad you're committing to this!! You probably mentioned it, but how many inches is your corset?

Mermaid Oshun

07-05-2013, 01:09 PM

it is 24" but my waist is over 30 now. I can not tighten it all the way yet. The website said to order six inches smaller than your waist. This is a hard core training corset not one of the lighter weight cosmetic lingerie

deepblue

07-05-2013, 01:41 PM

I love corsets. <3 I've never been into waist training but I have friends who've done it. What got you interested in waist training?

All right, so I managed to get my herbs and finally really kick this infection before it settled in my bronchials. So I'm breathing better, but this morning's work out was rough. My muscles are extra sore from less oxygen. Still, I'm on the upswing.

For the first time I counted, and I do about 100 varying types of crunches all together. If that can't get my post-baby belly back to where I want, nothing will. Once it becomes less of a challenge to do these 100, I'll increase the count.

I took my measurements.

Waist- 27.5"
I'm not happy with my waistline, because I know that at my fittest I had a 24" waist. However, I've had a baby- I won't try to get that back... maybe in the future.

Bust- overbust is 35", I don't want to lose any of that, and hope building the muscles behind my breasts will help with that. This is a post-nursing measurement. I nursed for 3 years, so I'm dealing with a very different set of breasts than I am used to.

Underbust is 29", that's fine, it won't change much. If I gain the healthy muscle I want, while losing fat, it probably won't change.

Hips -37" currently. My goal is to shave off at least 2".

I'm not sure how to measure around my bum, what points to measure, so I need to look that up.

How often do you all check your progress? I took these measurements on 6/30, I'll probably check weekly.

Mermaid Oshun

07-05-2013, 01:55 PM

what got me into trying a corset? Actually a few years ago a friend of mine with boobs the size of watermelons showed up with a waist freakishly small. Her waist was about like the size of a thigh or less than one boob in width. She told me she had been doing hardcore corset training. I ordered it but never really got around to wearing it much until now. So we will see how it goes. My goal would be to keep my hips and breasts where they are but reduce my tummy to closer to a 24". I used to have 24" or less tummy before when my boobs and hips were much smaller ... like a 36-38. Now that they are bigger than that it would be much more of an accomplishment to get the waist back that small.

MerMarla

07-05-2013, 02:20 PM

I can not tighten it [corset] all the way yet.... This is a hard core training corset not one of the lighter weight cosmetic lingerie

Hi Golden Pearl! Please be careful!

I want to WARN all mers wanting to use a corset! Tightening any corset is dangerous to your internal organs. Listed below are the issues you could/will run into.

A huge risk is compressing your ribs so much that you can break a rib, puncture your lungs (pneumothorax). Corsets also restrict full lung expansion, which in turn causes areas of collapse of avoli and results in pneumonia.

Corsets put undue pressure on your digestive system, shifting your stomach acids (reflux) into your esophagus causing erosion and heartburn,
and you could puncture your spleen in your sleep. This is fixable with surgical removal of your spleen.

A puncture your bowel would be life threatening, due to many infections from leakage of enzymes and bacteria flooding your abdominal cavity.

Compression also causes restriction of your arteries and veins to your heart, resulting in dizziness and fainting, and weakness in extremities due to lowered blood supply and oxygen deprivation. A fall could injure your head, have a concussion, or subdural hematoma.

Is all this worth the risk?

I'd choose another way... exercise maybe? Lots of swimming in your monofin, or just laps and some weight work, yoga, lots of other choices!

I would hate to have any mermaid have such bad medical issues from using a corset. Not worth the cost to repair your body.

My medical background was pushing me to respond. I hope anyone using corsets will reconsider. You are now more informed and can make the right choice.

Mermaid Marla

deepblue

07-05-2013, 02:50 PM

True, MerMaria- when not done right it can be a problem, and it can lead to weaker back muscles, and to one not being able to stand it for long without their corset. This is information I got directly from people I used to know who did waist training, but I'm talking about the extreme end of it. However, for me, corsets are (or used to be before I sold all of mine) a matter of a look. When I wore a lot of Victorian fashion, I loved them. And I was already tiny in the waist, so it wasn't training. It was just pretty, and actually, my lungs were stronger at that time and it wasn't a problem. I don't think I could wear one of my old steel boned corsets now.

what got me into trying a corset? Actually a few years ago a friend of mine with boobs the size of watermelons showed up with a waist freakishly small. Her waist was about like the size of a thigh or less than one boob in width. She told me she had been doing hardcore corset training. I ordered it but never really got around to wearing it much until now. So we will see how it goes. My goal would be to keep my hips and breasts where they are but reduce my tummy to closer to a 24". I used to have 24" or less tummy before when my boobs and hips were much smaller ... like a 36-38. Now that they are bigger than that it would be much more of an accomplishment to get the waist back that small.

I'm totally not judging here, so I don't want to come across wrong, but I'm just curious- did you attempt getting a smaller waist through exercise first? Obviously, it doesn't change things the way a corset does, and it's not the same effect... so that depends on what you want of course. I'm just wondering if you tried anything to work your waist to a smaller, stronger size or if that's simply not the effect you want.

(edited to clarify something in there.)

Mermaid Oshun

07-05-2013, 02:59 PM

that is simply not the effect I want. I do not want to be smaller all over, rather a spot reduction. Thanks for the medical data Marla. Yes corsets were typically worn by women during the Victorian era. I think I will refrain from discussing it though as everything is not for everyone.

deepblue

07-05-2013, 03:20 PM

Thank you for answering my question, Golden Pearl. :)

deepblue

07-05-2013, 03:33 PM

Did my squats for the day, and finished have another 200 push ups to go for today. Everything hurts but there are already visible changes after just two weeks of push ups.

200 is impressive. I can't even do one full. But the fact that I'm up to 12 half-push ups, even on bent knees instead of planked out, is still amazing to me. lol

I plan to do squats tomorrow.

Is anyone else here altering their workout schedule to deal with the heat? I'm waking up earlier so that I can get it done before it gets too warm, since I'm without a/c and I workout at home.

SeaGlass Siren

07-05-2013, 06:00 PM

I do work outs in the basement. It's a lot cooler down there since heat rises.

Coradion

07-05-2013, 07:35 PM

200 is impressive. I can't even do one full. But the fact that I'm up to 12 half-push ups, even on bent knees instead of planked out, is still amazing to me. lol

I plan to do squats tomorrow.

Is anyone else here altering their workout schedule to deal with the heat? I'm waking up earlier so that I can get it done before it gets too warm, since I'm without a/c and I workout at home.

I do my squats in the shower. It became part of my routine that way.

Mermaid Oshun

07-06-2013, 10:30 AM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yhu57Ul3ZQg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BD_63qxgQKo

Echidna

07-06-2013, 10:50 AM

Mermaid Oshun

07-06-2013, 11:15 AM

Hi Caltuna. Actually you WILL lose targeted inches in the waist doing corset training. My waist measurement has already decreased 2 " in a few days.They strengthen the core, improve the posture, tighten the tummy muscles, disintegrate fat, and give immediate aesthetic payoff in appearance. I notice myself walking taller and less slouched over.

Corset training can be used in conjunction with situps, dieting, work outs and swimming. I do swim and work out as well.. At the end of the day we each do what makes us happy.
Happy mermaiding!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EzPJnlyPcY

Echidna

07-06-2013, 12:29 PM

I read up about corsets, and it doesn't sound too horrible.
While I can't figure out how you could lose weight with them (unless it's just because you cannot eat as much wearing one, lol),
as long as it works, it's great I guess.

If you are the mer in your sig, however, you really don't need it ;D

Mermaid Oshun

07-06-2013, 12:39 PM

Hi Caltuna. I am the mer in my avatar. The signature is something I found online. But I just tried to have a soup for lunch... I could not even eat 1/2 a bowl of soup wearing this corset! So yes I guess it will make me lose weight if I get uncomfy eating less than 1/2 of what I used to glob down :$

PS regarding the size you mentioned as an ideal.. Been there done that for over 20 years. Don't wish to go back. I want to stay voluptuous but with an hourglass waist. Think Kim Kardashian instead of Twiggy. (Just a personal preference after decades of being Twiggy)

Mermaid Dottie

07-06-2013, 12:43 PM

That actually looks like Kariel. I love her. She might be my top favorite mermaid celeb.

SeaGlass Siren

07-06-2013, 09:40 PM

I might do corset training as well. I have abs but it's the fat I'm trying to get rid of. No how much my boy and I try, we've got abs hiding under a thick coat of fat

Usagi

07-07-2013, 01:15 AM

Ah, I never thought to post measurements rather than pictures!
Also, I agree with the acid reflux. I do ren faire and wear a size small bodice and lace it up all the way. If I drink too much water at once, then I get horrible acid reflux and have to go backstage, unlace, and lay down, trying to keep from dying or barfing. :P
And I do love the way I look once I take it off (I wear it from around 9 am to 8 pm). But then I wake up in the morning and the fat has moved back to where it was before ): hahaha

deepblue

07-07-2013, 02:34 AM

I might do corset training as well. I have abs but it's the fat I'm trying to get rid of. No how much my boy and I try, we've got abs hiding under a thick coat of fat

Have you adjusted your diet, made sure you're getting a lot of whole foods, little saturated fat, and little or no high fructose corn syrup? Cut back on refined sugars, refined flours? Increase your greens and fruit intake? All that in conjunction with exercise will take the fat off, or at least down. It takes time though, think of how long it took to get there. And our bodies store it faster than burn it. If you don't have proper nutrition while working out, your metabolism won't do what you want, anyway.

As for my goal of doing squats today:

I'm having a hell of a time feeling like I have the form right.

A lot of videos are on YT, and conflicting info as to if they're any good.

Can anyone with experience recommend a video for women's squats?

Coradion

07-07-2013, 07:42 AM

Yeah, that mer is Kariel in the sig. I've seen that tail in person.

Well for my day, I'm almost don with my pushups and about to start my squats.

It'd be nice if we can refrain from arguing over different body shaping methods. This thread is supposed to be for supporting people who want to change. Not questioning their choices and methods.

Coradion

07-07-2013, 07:50 AM

I'm no expert, but as far as I know, all corsets do is pinch together your internal organs and cavities.
They don't magically reduce your waistline, they just compress your thorax and body.

A similar "trick" is what the long-necked women in South East Asia do; their necks are not really that long, they just deform their collarbones to achieve that look.
Once the deforming has happened, they cannot take the neckrings off, or their weakened neck would break.

While corsets are not quite as intransigent, Mermarla has already mentioned the possible dangers.
Why not do a few sit-ups more instead?
The best workout for a small waist is probably tailswimming in cold water :)
Easy and effective!

Caltuna, please refrain from posts like this. If someone wants to do a spot reduction by wearing a corset then let's let them. Your comments are not constructive to this and you aren't posting any personal goals yourself. If you want to put up your measurements or changes you want to make with YOUR own body then I welcome you to keep participating in this thread. If all you're going to do is judge and give inaccurate information then please find one or several of the hundreds of other threads to comment on.

You CAN'T spot train a section of your body to have the fat disappear. If I do nothing but situps and change nothing about my routine I won't lose belly fat. The only way to lose the weight is to lose general weight and eventually some will come off of my stomach. You don't get a small waist by just doing certain exercises. For the case in question, her goal is not to lose general weight, but change her shape. She's found a way to do it, she is a grown adult, and the point is to support her endeavor. Which I for one do.

On that note, I hate when people comment on how others are trying to achieve their goals, when they themselves have nothing they are working on.

SeaGlass Siren

07-07-2013, 08:54 AM

Have you adjusted your diet, made sure you're getting a lot of whole foods, little saturated fat, and little or no high fructose corn syrup? Cut back on refined sugars, refined flours? Increase your greens and fruit intake? All that in conjunction with exercise will take the fat off, or at least down. It takes time though, think of how long it took to get there. And our bodies store it faster than burn it. If you don't have proper nutrition while working out, your metabolism won't do what you want, anyway.

As for my goal of doing squats today:

I'm having a hell of a time feeling like I have the form right.

A lot of videos are on YT, and conflicting info as to if they're any good.

Can anyone with experience recommend a video for women's squats?
Actually I've increased eating vegetables and fruit. I can't stand eating sweets (I've been like that since grade nine..)

My diet compared to most is fine. Imagine a thin person with a beergut. That's me xD in the mornings I'm perfectly thin but as soon as I eat... PPHFFT my belly sticks out :|

I still don't know how to post pictures :| wish I could show u what I mean

SeaGlass Siren

07-07-2013, 08:59 AM

My love handles are noticibly smaller. Bum kinda feels more firm. Haven't started on my squats as I just woke up. Can do 70 squats no problem now

Mermaid Varshana

07-07-2013, 11:32 AM

Coradion, I've changed my diet and I'm making gains in strength, but I'm losing weight AND my hips have gotten bigger >< my waist has stayed the same. Is this a thing?

Mermaid Oshun

07-07-2013, 11:47 AM

wow that sounds great Karkarote

deepblue

07-07-2013, 12:50 PM

Kakarotte:
I have known people whose abs seemed to be 'bigger' when they started doing crunches- the waistline increased. It was the effect of the ab muscles building while the fat on top of them hadn't waned yet. It just took time, and all that muscle burning calories eventually evened it all out, and the measurement went down. Maybe that's what you're dealing with?

I still don't know how to post pictures :| wish I could show u what I mean

I think I understand. Every body is different. So maybe it's a matter of building that muscle to hold in your food filled belly? :p

I woke up late, so I'm doing my workout late. In about twenty minutes.

And I think I just need to use a chair to guide my apparently uncoordinated self for squats until I get the form down.

It would be really nice if stretch marks weren't appearing all over as I've lost baby weight. I didn't think I got them, but OH I did. And they're not the cool tiger stripey kind. They're just... not pretty. My skin looks mottled and unhappy. Glad I'm already working out. I'll really never be happy about it unless I can have a healthy physique. And I understand stretch marks look less pronounced when there's less fat beneath them and more muscle.

Basically, my goal is to feel like I look good naked. lol I'm getting there, and believe me it's just for me. I don't have anyone who is going to see. haha

Mermaid Oshun

07-07-2013, 01:35 PM

roamingmer

07-07-2013, 02:14 PM

Nikki Sharp has some good guidelines for detoxing and eating healthily - which will help any body shape. http://www.staysharpbestrong.com/
Sophie Guidolin also has some good guidelines - and a body to be envious of http://sophieguidolin.com.au/
The Sinus Survival Guide is also a good read and echoes all of the healthy eating journals.

Three big things I changed: No Dairy produce, No Breads / Yeast and trying hard to cut out refined sugars (or added sugars). Im still eating as much as before but also enjoying 'Rainbow' meals with multicoloured fruits, veg, salads and yes meat and fish (but the quantity is lower).

In reality eating healthily and exercising the core and upper body will have an influence. The best core strengthening is to lay on your back and lift the legs - whilst keeping the stomach in. Slow controlled situps also work - the aim is to be controlled with the movements otherwise the wrong muscle groups are used. Doing Yoga will help you regain flexibility as over training the abs will be detrimental to the elegance of tail and back...

Certainly all these aspects helped me - and the bloating I used get regularly has gone. Indeed my stomach almost disappeared whilst my weight stayed a consistent 60kg (1m74).

Mermaid Oshun

07-07-2013, 02:58 PM

deepblue

07-07-2013, 03:28 PM

I thought Karkarotte is doing the squats to increase the bottom? If the gluteus maximus increases, that would increase the entire hip/but region. So this is a good thing right? Not something she would want to go away the way I understand it Deep blue. Congratulations on the progress Karkarotte!.

Oh, I'm so sorry if I missed that that was her goal. I'll be more careful in the future about reading the earlier posts.

I'm actually looking for a video to show me squats to lift and just define my glutes. I in no way want a larger bum. But if I lose the fat and tone the muscle, it's pretty simple and I should end up where I want to be with it.

I really like my natural curves- even at my fittest, I have them. But to me, natural means it's not covered in unhealthy, undeveloped muscle and fat.

I did find a cool free workout app. I'm going to try the squats on it. But not tonight... my bum is so sore, today was the first day I managed to totally keep up with my Buns of Steel dvd. lol

Mermaid Oshun

07-07-2013, 03:31 PM

Im really not sure if that is her goal or not deep blue. That's why I put so many question marks in my post. I tried to find her initial post stating her goals and I could not find it either.

Mermaid Varshana

07-07-2013, 04:41 PM

I've been lifting weights, doing squats and abs exercises for like a million years ;) It's not that.

Mermaid Varshana

07-07-2013, 04:47 PM

I really don't want my hips to be bigger than 38". They're 39 atm. My waist is somewhere between 28.5-29. I'd rather it be down to 27.

Coradion

07-07-2013, 08:15 PM

It's not going to be instant, just keep at it. You need the cardio with the muscle training in order to really burn through the fat and let the shapes you're working on toning and building up really show.

Mermaid Varshana

07-07-2013, 09:11 PM

Oh, I've been doing lots of weightlifting and cardio since I was a teenager. I'm an insanely active person. That's not part of my better body goal. The only thing I changed was my diet to half raw. I lost about 3-4lbs, but gained half an inch in my hips. That was what confused me lol

Joy&RaptorsUnrestrained!

07-08-2013, 02:58 PM

I went down to the beach this weekend, and in all the unpacking and such, I slacked off on my workouts (including squats). Heading to the resort gym/pool now. Will take photos later.

deepblue

07-08-2013, 09:55 PM

This video helped me see what I was doing wrong with squats.
http://youtu.be/aPYCiuiB4PA

I did 45, and had to stop because my breathing went to hell, by virtue of the movements themselves. But in that time I felt more in my quads and latissimus dorsi than anywhere else. I'm almost certain that I'm doing it totally correctly. I just expected to feel more in the glutes.

I will work up to more. I'm going to attempt to do more every day, and still do my usual workout three times a week, for now.

Usagi

07-09-2013, 06:31 AM

Usagi

07-09-2013, 06:32 AM

Also, I had a HungryMan for dinner. I am ashamed. But it was that, fast food, or starve. Or delicious sweets that I shouldn't be eating lol

Mermaid Varshana

07-09-2013, 11:56 AM

You'd be surprised how affordable fruits, veggies and lean meats are compared to box meals. I used to eat mostly TV dinners too, and spent $10 more on groceries.

deepblue

07-09-2013, 01:47 PM

I have an idea. I will give one of you guys all the fat off my body that I don't want. Then one of you can just lose it for me! :D lol agghhh I think my problem is that I'm all malnutritioned or whatever haha I'm really lacking nutrients and vitamins and blah dee blah. I have a poor diet and probably have low iron (anemia runs in the family) so I'm just tired all the time. It doesn't even matter how much sleep I get. I've always been a tired person. I caught up with my squats, and have been meaning to take my hula hoop in the backyard, but it's been so freaking hot! Plus, I'm obsessing over Halloween costume-making right now haha

If you can go to a doc and ask for a blood test to tell you what nutrients you're low on, it's really helpful. A lot of people have no idea they're low in vitamin D, for instance. But low D can make you feel tired all the time, and it's a hormone precursor, so being low can effect so much of your life. It turns out it's really common. I shouldn't be low in D, I'm in San Diego and walk everywhere, but I do get low in it. So I take it in pill form because it makes such a difference in the way I feel.

And yeah, anemia, too. It runs in my family. Everyone is anemic to some degree, no matter what they do- except for me. When I'm 100% raw vegan I don't have to take iron because I got it from all the food I was eating. But I'm don't eat as much raw now, so I take Floradix (Edit- I take their Floravital, because it's vegan as I am. :p). It's expensive but the BEST iron, and one of a few my body will absorb. It was recommended when I was pregnant, and it's amazing how fast you can feel the diff.

A lot of caffeine in your diet will also steal your iron, btw. Caffeine... one of the scariest legal addiction there is when it comes to what it does to our blood and bones, but no one thinks about it.

You can slowly bring better nutrition into your diet. You don't even have to be exrteme. Just dropping processed foods to begin with will make a difference.

deepblue

07-09-2013, 02:45 PM

I have to double post because I am SO stoked right now. Just did my workout- a little late, I overslept, so I did it with fans pointing at me- and for the first time... I don't know how long, I did not have to take my inhaler before, during, or after. This kind of progress is amazing. These things pay off. As long as I can avoid smokers on the street and such, I should continue on this path of stronger breathing. Woohoo!

Mermaid Varshana

07-09-2013, 03:12 PM

Exercise does amazing things to the human body. Ever since I started swimming and rollerblading more, my blood pressure is down around 89/56 and my resting pulse is under 60. I'm going to live forever :P

Mermaid Dottie

07-09-2013, 03:50 PM

Okay, better body. Here are my goals.
Asleep by 10:30 so that I can be up at 6:30 to go lap swimming (If you see me on her later than 9:45, tell me to go to bed, no matter what thread I'm in.)
Sit-ups every day, regardless of my swim workout.
I want to drop 3 inches off my waist and tighten up my "kangaroo pouch", as I like to call it. What I've got going on is extra skin that never shrank back to size after Lochlan was born, but instead gathered fat into it and now hangs down quite unpleasantly.
I am currently 35 inches at the waist and 46 at the hips. My goal is for my waist to be small enough that a properly-fitting tail will have no way to slide down or gap.

MermaidBrittany

07-09-2013, 05:56 PM

Wow, to see what everyone is doing is really inspiring :) I told myself that I would go to the gym very frequently in the summer, but I guess I have unintentionally put it off with community service events keeping me so busy :P
So, I accept the Squat challenge!
Never heard of it before, but it looks like an awesome start to getting me where I need to be! With college just around the corner, I want to make sure I have a nice routine down so that I don't gain the freshman 15 ;)
Good luck to everyone, I hope you achieve your goals!

SeaGlass Siren

07-09-2013, 06:08 PM

I gained the freshman 15 xD

Mermaid Oshun

07-09-2013, 06:53 PM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqlH4pK7eHY
Woman thrown out of pool for wearing a bikini with a full figure.
I think we should all protest this. I think it is ridiculous!!
She looks GREAT are they all NUTS or what??? She should sue and be paid megabucks.

Mermaid Dottie

07-09-2013, 07:16 PM

What hypocrites. That's one thing that drives me crazy is hypocritical behavior. I would love to have that woman's body. She's just the way I wan't to look. Except for her hair. I look terrible as a blond.

Mermaid Arianna

07-10-2013, 03:45 AM

Mermaid Dottie

07-10-2013, 05:28 PM

Hey, Y'a'll. Lochlan is napping so I took the opportunity to do 3 reps of 10 sit-ups and 2 reps of 10 push-ups. I know it's not a lot, but the sit-ups are one rep better than yesterday. Slow and steady, Dot. Slow and steady.

Just out of curiosity, does anyone on here use the myfitnesspal calorie counter app?
my username on it is mermaiddottie.

deepblue

07-10-2013, 11:45 PM

Ok I have not been on mernetwork in quite some time but I'm back! I saw this thread and got super excited. For the past 2 months I have been working on getting more fit. Im 13 years old, almost 5 feet 6 inches tall and I weigh about 100 pounds. My stomach has been packing on a few pounds I have noticed, and while my family says it's just skin, I'm determined to have rock hard abs! (I'm starting to get a 4 pack, but only starting!) I found a great youtube channel a few days ago and she posts great workouts that I LOVE. I want to join in on this fitness adventure, and I will post my starting picture next Monday if you are ok with me joining in. :)

Go, you! When I was 13, at 5'4", I was about 95, but no muscles. I think it's great you're taking care of your physique. I've noticed rock hard abs are getting really popular for women, and I'm so glad that for once a trend is a good one.

Hey, Y'a'll. Lochlan is napping so I took the opportunity to do 3 reps of 10 sit-ups and 2 reps of 10 push-ups. I know it's not a lot, but the sit-ups are one rep better than yesterday. Slow and steady, Dot. Slow and steady.

Totally, I'm amazed when I get through 9 push ups. ha. I can't wait til I can go lower, as in closer to the ground. And til I can do one with my legs straight on not bent. I want my arms to be strong and free from those upper arm flaps so many people get. I also do tricep presses, and those are easier for me.

Right now, though, I'm bummed. My building has to turn the water off tomorrow from 8am to 5pm. I don't think I'll get my workout in if I can't have a shower after. Unless I wake up REALLY early for it... oh man I just talked myself into getting up REALLY early. :p

Let's see if I can do that. Working out and sweating and the sore muscles are far easier for me than waking up super early is.

Oh and ps- does anyone feel the result of squats in their glutes when doing them? I feel like I must be doing something wrong still, because I don't feel a dang thing in my actual glutes, just the quads and lattisimi dorsi.

Usagi

07-11-2013, 06:01 AM

Oh and ps- does anyone feel the result of squats in their glutes when doing them? I feel like I must be doing something wrong still, because I don't feel a dang thing in my actual glutes, just the quads and lattisimi dorsi.
Yeah, and the trembling thighs that come afterward...haha but yeah, I'm not really feeling it in the glutes..maybe we aren't going down far enough?
I did my 105 today, and 10 not-so-great push ups, but, hey. It's a start. Tomorrow I also start a 4 week sit up challenge Dx But today....I enjoyed my McDonald's (: haha

Mermaid Oshun

07-11-2013, 09:10 AM

I did a few squats yesterday and I felt pain in my quadraceps right above my knee. I felt nothing in my but or thighs. If you are also feeling pain in the latissimus dorsi which is where your hourglass is supposed to taper I do not think this exercise will produce a desired aesthetic result. The videos on youtube CLAIM squats will bulk your butt muscles or the muscles it is working on. I do NOT want the muscles that deep blue is referring to bulked or it will make me look worse
See my current body photo below
12446
See where I am tapered and delicate looking just above the knee. I feel pain there now from the exercise. I do NOT want to be bulky there or my leg will just look big and not sexy as it does now.
See where I am tapered on my back at the hourglass.... I feel pain there now too! And I do not need to be bulked there either or i will just look straight up and down with no curve.
I feel zero pain in my butt muscles where the squats are supposed to cause bulking up. So I have severe concerns that this exercise will produce effect that are totally opposite to a sexy feminine form. I would like to do some exercise, but I do not want to feel bulking up in my tapered legs above the knees, nor do I want to feel bulking up in the area of the hourglass indention. So I wonder if these squats are better for men.

Christopher Chandler

07-11-2013, 10:51 AM

I am down from 235 to 185. I have noticed to get the belly fat and the love handles to disappear it is 80% diet and 20% cardio. If you cut bread, sugar, pasta, soda and diary out of your diet you will be amazed at how fast that section will disappear. The hardest part is the mental challenge to give it up. If you want it bad enough you can get it!

Mermaid Octavia

07-11-2013, 11:20 AM

French Merman, NEVER lose that butt!

TROO FAX

/will try to get photos of self soon

I'm doing my best to be in better shape too! Morticia took my measurements when I first went to her for a tail and I was 38-28-42. I'm now down to 38-24-39, which is more acceptable but I still have a bit of a tummy I don't much care for.

I've cut a lot of snacking out of my diet, reduced my soda intact and replaced a lot of the snacks I would normally eat with high protein nuts and yogurts. So far, so good! Also ramped up my exercise to a 30 minute walk/jog, mostly uphill, every day after work and swimming twice a week for an hour. I still have more work to do to get rid of this belly, but I'm trying!

Mermaid Oshun

07-11-2013, 11:26 AM

well I have gone on a diet. I eat only salads now. Lettuce, tomatoes, carrots, ham maybe boiled eggs, cheese, and salad dressing and that's it. As far as exercise, I think I will stick to more lengthening pilates and walking instead of risking messing up my form with bulking squats.

I am a little concerned about all this though and resent doing this. I am doing this really just to follow others. Personally I like my body the way it is and would only reduce my tummy a little bit if anything. I love being voluptuous and in my mind it is the ideal female form for myself. I really do not think I will look better if I am a thinner version of myself. I actually view each of my curves that I have achieved as an accomplishment as opposed to something that needs to be reduced. I can not comprehend the comments of some women that think they will look better with their hips smaller or their boobs smaller. If anything it would make one look less womanly and more childlike. I really do not understand the women who want to look muscular or more similar to male physiques. It is as if those women do not appreciate their own female form and want to make it either prepubescent or masculine... totally confusing to me.:rolleyes:

As an example I would prefer by far to have the figure on the left below. However, the media is telling us we should want to look like the figure on the right below. I think the figure on the right looks ill while the one on the left looks more pleasant. What are your thoughts?
1244712448

Mermaid Dottie

07-11-2013, 12:52 PM

This morning, instead of going to the pool (I kinda felt icky) I turned on youtube and did a 20 minute cardio dance workout.
The burn, its so goooooood..... I'll do my reps when boy hits it for a nap again.

MermaidBrittany

07-11-2013, 01:26 PM

For those that say they aren't feeling it in the butt, make sure you are going slow and keep your back as straight as possible. Make sure you are also going deep enough. The form is everything, and sometimes its just hard to master :P

Mermaid Varshana

07-11-2013, 01:30 PM

Golden Pearl, if you don't want to be a twig, for gods sake don't be a twig! The only reason the waif look got popular is - and you'll laugh - because smaller measurements means saving money in material costs in runway shows. Sounds like bunk to me. As for why a woman would want to be muscular, I work out like a man because, otherwise, my genes would cause me to be overweight. Also i just really enjoy weightlifting and the Michaelangelesque figure it gives me. I have some friends who can just do cardio, or nothing, and be a good weight. I'm not one of them. Thankfully I haven't lost my curves and won't. Be careful eating only salads. Eating too few calories will actually cause you to gain weight, ironically :)

as for the two models...they both look on the underweight side to me, but if I had to choose, it'd be the left.

Mermaid Oshun

07-11-2013, 02:03 PM

Karkarotte, thanks for the laugh about the fabric in the fashion industry. I am just feeling a little ticked from eating just lettuce I wish I was eating all the delicious foods I love instead :doh:

deepblue

07-11-2013, 02:11 PM

Personally I like my body the way it is and would only reduce my tummy a little bit if anything. I love being voluptuous and in my mind it is the ideal female form for myself. I really do not think I will look better if I am a thinner version of myself. I actually view each of my curves that I have achieved as an accomplishment as opposed to something that needs to be reduced. I can not comprehend the comments of some women that think they will look better with their hips smaller or their boobs smaller. If anything it would make one look less womanly and more childlike. I really do not understand the women who want to look muscular or more similar to male physiques. It is as if those women do not appreciate their own female form and want to make it either prepubescent or masculine... totally confusing to me.:rolleyes:

As an example I would prefer by far to have the figure on the left below. However, the media is telling us we should want to look like the figure on the right below. I think the figure on the right looks ill while the one on the left looks more pleasant. What are your thoughts?

First- if you like your body the way it is, then stick with it the way it is. Why on earth would you go along with what others have? All our body types are different, we all have an individual best, and it can't be based on what someone else looks like.

As for the images? My sister is very thin- no curves, tiny breasts, a natural size 0- and let me tell you, she cannot gain weight no matter WHAT she does. AND she SHOULD NOT have to. Having four children hasn't changed it, either. And she walks around, this brilliant woman and good mom, who hates her own body, tries not to let the comments of others get to her but they do. People all over the web saying, "Men don't like sticks" and saying she's not a real woman. This body judgement that everyone gives to everyone else has got to stop. It breaks my heart to see her affected, and her daughter has the same body and she's trying to make sure her daughter knows she is still a real woman and there's nothing wrong with her natural body. NOTHING. Small boobs? No problem. Huge? No problem.

I think the best thing for everyone is to: Eat what you feel is healthiest for you. Get the shape you want. Don't compare yourself to others.

Me? I'm 5'4", and at my thinnest I still have curves. If I was going to compare myself and try to not have those curves, I would have to starve myself. And I would STILL be curvy. It's utter bollocks! I love my curves, and I love fitness, and I will have the body I want. And when people call me skinny bitch, like they have in the past, I'll look them in the eye, and tell them, "I'm not skinny. I'm fit." And leave the bitch to them.

For those that say they aren't feeling it in the butt, make sure you are going slow and keep your back as straight as possible. Make sure you are also going deep enough. The form is everything, and sometimes its just hard to master :P

Okay, I'll keep at it with that in mind. :)

Mermaid Octavia

07-11-2013, 02:26 PM

Hmm. I feel the need to respond to this too.

I like my body more now that I've put more work into it. I feel better, I look better, it feels right to me to be this size. The reason why I posted my measurements was just to show that I had lost inches, not necessarily weight. I think my weight has actually stayed the same since I've been trading fat for muscle. I'd like to lose a bit more of my tummy but there ain't no way, gurl that I'm losing my bubble butt. I love my butt. I'm more comfortable with myself now than I've ever been my entire life.

My sister is a rail, no breasts, no butt, very androgynous. She eats whatever she wants and never gains a pound. And she likes that, more power to her! Do I wish I had her figure? PFF NO cuz... I'd miss my butt and my curves.

But my point is, be happy with your body, even if you have to work to get it to where you want to be. Everybody has different goals. I'm just here to celebrate the work we're all doing to get to where we want to be.

/merhugs

In response to Golden Pearl's pictures, I myself look more like the chick on the left (I'm 5'6") and my sister looks like the girl on the right (she's 5'4"ish). And we're both just naturally that way for the most part.

Mermaid Varshana

07-11-2013, 02:47 PM

I started eating more salad, fruit and nuts to put a stop to the weight that's been creeping up on me annually. I don't want to be one of those middle aged people who suddenly finds themselves 30lbs overweight. I don't want to be a waif. I've already been underweight, and I looked like a triangle. It wasn't attractive and I ruined my metabolism. The only reason why being underfed doesn't destroy the metabolisms of celebrities and models is because they have a TEAM OF PEOPLE who manage their diets and exercise. I really used to buy into celebrities as being inspiration for what I wanted to look like. I watched a documentary on the fashion industry that exposed just how much bullshit the mainstream ideal of beauty is. If you don't see these people in person, you should always assume that what's there has been digitally manipulated to the point where it barely resembles the source material. That's when I just let it go. It's a system that's meant to keep you consuming diet, media and beauty products because what's to be attained is not actually attainable. So, instead of using these fictional people as inspiration for what I want to look like, I now use Frank Frazetta and Boris Vallejo's art as my inspiration for an attainable ideal. Since mainstream media is just as fictional as fantasy art, I might as well look up to something I actually think is hot ^^;

http://www.oocities.org/the3agents/boris/boris1.jpg

http://fantasy.mrugala.net/Frank%20Frazetta%20-%201996/Frank%20Frazetta%20-%20Calendrier%201996%20-%2002.jpg

deepblue

07-11-2013, 03:32 PM

Ah, I love those women!

When I think of what I want to look like not only have I looked like it so I know it's possible, it's basically what I'd look like if I lived in a society where people still moved all the time, but were well fed (and by well, I mean healthy). I see surfers as a big example of this- almost every single one of them has this great, healthy, fit physique because they're always using their bodies, and the use is so all around.

I get to see surfers, men and women, walking around here all the time, the tops of their wetsuits down, and they're inspiring. Also, gee what a hardship. ;) lol

Alveric

07-11-2013, 03:35 PM

Here's one guy who votes for voluptuous. Yay curves!

Mermaid Dottie

07-11-2013, 03:44 PM

I don't really care about being thin, I just want to get rid of my overstretched, hangy-downy leftovers from pregnancy. I don't even care about the stretch marks. (Actually, I'm proud of them.) I just want the kangaroo pouch gone.

On that note; 3 reps of 10 sit-ups, and 2 reps of 15 push-ups.
Better than yesterday, again! Feel the burn! lol

Mermaid Dottie

07-11-2013, 04:27 PM

http://www.cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/living/2013/07/06/newday-making-barbie-a-real-woman.cnn.html

Mermaid Varshana

07-11-2013, 05:00 PM

The realistic one looks a bit less...creepy.

deepblue

07-11-2013, 05:04 PM

That sure has been making the rounds. But really, I'll never look like Barbie (nor will anyone, since she's not modeled after actual human women) and I'll never look like the other (because our bodies aren't the same type). Either way, no doll is ever going to represent all of anyone.

Mermaid Dottie

07-11-2013, 05:53 PM

True. Human beings are individually beautiful. It would be nice, though, if dolls came in different (more realistic) shapes so that young girls wouldn't think that you have to be just one way to look pretty.

deepblue

07-11-2013, 05:59 PM

I totally agree with that. I bought my daughter's first doll because it was customizable. Red hair and brown eyes, just like her. And her milky skin. It was awesome, you could have it made any way you like. For babies and toddlers, though- and it's cloth. I don't imagine plastic dolls like that without great cost.

Oh- as for today's workout... I haven't done it. Woke up today a little late to work out before the water was shut off. But- I can't stand the idea of not doing it, so I'll do it tonight, after water is back on, and it's cooler. I prefer working out earlier. For me, late workouts get my body going and I can't sleep. Hope I can get it in under that wire.

Mermaid Octavia

07-11-2013, 06:18 PM

I bought my daughter's first doll because it was customizable. Red hair and brown eyes, just like her. And her milky skin. It was awesome, you could have it made any way you like. For babies and toddlers, though- and it's cloth. I don't imagine plastic dolls like that without great cost.

I have to ask even though it's a little off-topic: what kind of doll did you guy for your daughter? I collect Asian ball-jointed dolls and am left wondering if the doll you bought was similar?

deepblue

07-11-2013, 07:47 PM

I have to ask even though it's a little off-topic: what kind of doll did you guy for your daughter? I collect Asian ball-jointed dolls and am left wondering if the doll you bought was similar?

Oh, no - not at all. This is a little hand sewn soft doll. I know the kind you're referring to because one of my friends collects them. Quite different. /OT

I just saw the body issue of ESPN is out. If anyone wants some inspiration, check it out. Warning: tasteful nudity ahead. I love the diversity. I'm inspired by the volleyball player. I don't have a body like she does or get that much exercise, but it shows you that having a baby doesn't mean getting out of shape by default. And check out the 78 year old golfer, he looks amazing. THAT is what taking care of yourself can do.

http://espn.go.com/espn/photos/gallery/_/id/9428872

Mermaid Varshana

07-11-2013, 07:57 PM

Sydney Leroux is almost exactly my height and weight. I feel better about myself somehow :)

Mermaid Oshun

07-11-2013, 09:34 PM

http://espn.go.com/espn/photos/gallery/_/id/9428872
I am not sure what gender the one on the motorcycle was. The body looked like a man but the face looked fem.

deepblue

07-11-2013, 11:00 PM

I didn't notice- could be either, and either gender, that particular person is dang fit. However- the descriptions below do say their name, age and what they do.

No workout for me tonight. My daughter has a tummy complaint.

Tomorrow then.

Usagi

07-12-2013, 05:24 AM

-sigh- I will never be able to please the masses. I'm about 5'2", have a 32" bust (though I wear 34A because they're looser and comfier, but still give a little oomph), 27" waist, and 35" hips. But right under my bust, my rib cage doesn't get all tiny like my sisters'..they were lucky..I've always been the only chunky kid in my family. /: I have a short torso, and the bottom of my ribs and the top of my hip are only about an inch or two apart. Not much room to create a tiny waist. |: so I don't really have an hourglass shape. And I can't be a little skinny minnie. And I can't be all big-busted pin up-y.
I've thought about - and have really wanted - a boob job, but my boyfriend doesn't want me to get one (not that I'd be able to afford one for a long time), but these things are tiny! I hate it!! I'm at a weird stage where it's like, I'm not *skinny*, but I'm also not overweight. Most certainly unsatisfied with what I was given to work with.
END RANT....for now ;P

I started my sit up challenge today, still have to do my 110 squats and 10 pushups (starting small :P). I really hope there's some changes at least within the month...my boyfriend gets back Aug 24 and I told him I would get in shape for him (my idea, not his. He's not some awful boyfriend telling me I'm fat haha).
And hey! Not nice calling us non-busty gals prepubescent. ):

Usagi

07-12-2013, 05:36 AM

Hmm I kind of like the espn thing. Seems like they were able to focus it more on *sports* and having fun, rather than sexualizing it up. But did anyone notice that in one shot, the red headed woman and some awesome abs, but then when she's at the grill, it looks like they airbrushed them to make her look more feminine (I know, there was a lot of airbrushing and editing in those photos). So then which one do you think is more what she actually looks like? I mean because they could have added the shadows to make her look more muscular.
I'm really jealous of all those women. >.> Well, maybe not the super muscular one haha I mean, good on her for accomplishing that, but it's my societal duty to look "hot" and "fit" yet breakable at the same time, is it not? ;P

SeaGlass Siren

07-12-2013, 08:23 AM

I'm on day twelve so I get a break

Just wanted to chime in on a few things: lay off the salad dressing thats where the most fat and sugars hide. If u want it, opt for the non creamy ones like basaltic vinaigrette or sweet onion.

I think everyone should have the option to change their body if they can. It's only If you can't Then u gotta learn to accept it. I was major thin before and looked like twiggy cuz of my braces and high metabolism. Everyone thought I was anorexic but no matter how muh I ate I remained a skinny ass bitch. Luckily I've gained some an now at least I can alter my body so that I can look good. Little curve is ok with me.

Also define curvy. curvy as in Marilyn Monroe type art subjects, bigboned, or obese? Because obesity is unhealthy. tip, if your stomach goes pat your breast line it's unhealthy.

SeaGlass Siren

07-12-2013, 08:29 AM

http://mernetwork.com/index/webkit-fake-url://2F2C1D0A-6D23-441D-ABF6-5B67C7E3241D/imagejpeghttp://mernetwork.com/index/webkit-fake-url://F4F1B22C-BE67-426D-B478-A9E9B726D9E8/imagejpeghttp://mernetwork.com/index/webkit-fake-url://1DC2B131-3C82-4A69-BCCF-28B09566AA6B/imagejpeg

Mermaid Varshana

07-12-2013, 10:15 AM

Curvy is curvy. Big boned is big boned. Obese is obese.

Amethyst

07-12-2013, 10:20 AM

I was a chubby child and teenager, I wasn't huge but I've never been classed as average, always plus size and when I got married, I guess I got very comfy and just kept ballooning! I went up to 17 stone 9lbs (247lbs) a UK size 20-22. Two years ago I'd had enough, I was so tired of not being able to fit into clothes I wanted to! Being hot and out of breath! Having painful knees! So I went to the drs and he sent me to a dietitian and she put me on an exercise programme! I am now 11 stone! (154lbs) and a UK size 14 :D I still have my curves! My hips shall always be wide! lol but one problem, I was expecting to have this fit, toned slim body but nope, I ended up with loose skin! :( It's not too bad it's not hanging down anywhere but I think I have to come to terms with the fact I shall never have a flat stomach :( I'm still trying to eat healthy and I go the gym and do yoga, so now I'm just concentrating on 'healthy' not 'perfect' :D

Mermaid Syrena

07-12-2013, 10:41 AM

Thanks for suggesting the Squat Challenge, guys! I quietly decided to try it after reading about it here... I'm not very far-- I'm on the day with 75 squats, but I love that it's a convenient way to get a wee bit more of exercise into the day. :D

Mermaid Oshun

07-12-2013, 12:08 PM

my husband bought me a cane because I am incapacitated after doing those squats

Mermaid Syrena

07-12-2013, 01:17 PM

At first I read that TOTALLY differently...

Mermaid Dottie

07-12-2013, 01:44 PM

The evolution of Dottie
Putting it all out there, for y'all to see.

as a kid (far left). I was sick a lot as a kid, and therefore, very thin. I kind of looked like Wednesday Addams.
12456

Senior year of high school. I loved that shirt.... made it myself... it was pinstriped with blue ribbon and buttons.
12457

Right before I met hubby. I looked hot in that dress, and now I can't even get it on....
12458

bridals by my sister-in-law.
12459

preggers at my best friend's wedding.
12460

4 months post-partum. As you can see it's Christmas Morning.
12461

10 months post-partum (last month). I'm a furry, sometimes.
12462

Just now. and yes, I am standing on the edge of the tub to get a decent shot of body.
12463

MermaidBrittany

07-12-2013, 01:54 PM

deepblue

07-12-2013, 03:55 PM

Is that your pic in your profile? Your thighs look downright perfectly porportioned to me. :)

Workout this morning, success.

I meant to do measurements before I ate lunch. heh. Tomorrow morning, I will.

I'm thinking of upping my workout from three days a week to five. I just think I can use more, but I don't want to overwork the same muscle group either. My memory is sketchy on what I learned about that from my ex the body builder. I find a lot of conflicting info online. So, I'm going to do it, and watch how I feel.

Because I am loving how I feel right now. But I also think I need more.

Mermaid Dottie

07-12-2013, 04:13 PM

Ow! that was awesome! Ow! My legs and abs, and biceps are all throbbing.

I just did this. Couldn't keep up, but I did my best. Whoa....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bcn8njlImgQ

during the spots where I couldn't do what she was doing, I did 2 reps of 15 push-ups.
Before the vid I did.... wait for it!.....
50 sit-ups! 5 sets of ten. WOOHOO! I hurt.....

Mermaid Varshana

07-12-2013, 04:19 PM

Hey, big thighs are hot. I had a "friend" rag on me a lot because I had "soccer thighs." She and her partner had this rating spectrum. There are, in order, tea party thighs, chicken thighs, soccer thighs, party thighs and thunder thighs XD I think she teased me because she had tea party thighs ;)
I used to be an exercise science major. I have to lift weights or I become overweight. I have tips if anyone's looking for them :)

MermaidBrittany

07-12-2013, 08:26 PM

Ha thanks guys :P Its still annoying in bathing suits or skirts :/
But I was wondering how much stretching should be involved after an intense workout? I know its important to do it before and after so the acid doesn't sit in your muscles, but how much stretching is enough?

Mermaid Varshana

07-12-2013, 09:07 PM

I would say 5-15 minutes. Although I personally am bad and don't do it ;P

SeaGlass Siren

07-12-2013, 10:01 PM

Oh shit stretches I forget to do those :| oops...

deepblue

07-13-2013, 01:56 PM

My workout dvd comes with cool down/stretch so I'm covered. I don't tend to forget, anyway, if I stop abruptly, my heart tells my lungs and my lungs protest. :)

So, I did my workout two days in a row. Holee cow do I feel it. It's good, though. I was starting to not feel such a challenge at parts.

I did my measurements again. While my waist and other measurements are all the same, I lost an inch from my hips! Woohoo!

One thing I noticed walking around these hot summer days is how very aware I am of this extra flab I'm carrying. I feel like I'm wearing a pair of trousers made from an extra layer of myself.

But I also know I'm on the right track. Losing the flab while eating healthy and working out can only have one outcome, and I'm on my way.

Usagi

07-14-2013, 03:26 AM

I haven't been stretching either..:eek: also forgot to do the past two days...and still haven't done today's...and am reaallyy craving the ice cream sitting in the fridge! D;
How do you handle your cravings??...because I usually just go eat... :$

Mermaid Varshana

07-14-2013, 06:49 AM

I usually just eat a little of what I'm craving.

Usagi

07-14-2013, 07:17 AM

Well...I guess I only had a little bit of ice cream, compared to how much I usually eat. (;

Mermaid Varshana

07-14-2013, 08:03 AM

Having some ice cream, beer or pizza isn't going to keep you a chunker. It's having more than some on a regular basis that will retard your progress. My body reacts poorly to certain foods, causing water retention. That goes away in another day or so though.

deepblue

07-14-2013, 08:45 AM

^Exactly, yesterday was so hot, I had some from the shop around the corner. They sell two kinds of vegan ice cream, and it's been awhile. So I treated myself.

But I have craved it every day. That doesn't mean I ate it every day. Just yesterday.

My big challenge has been not eating at bed time. I made a habit of it because it's so hard to get anything special to yourself when you have a toddler, so you wait til they go to sleep. lol But I haven't eaten right before bed in a littlle while now. Tonight I walked into the kitchen for no reason, out of habit. So I turned around, and walked out. I went to bed a little hungry, but a little is fine, and will let my body adjust, and I'd eaten fine all day. I didn't *need* to eat right before bed so I didn't.

Cravings are rough, but they are just cravings. They sometimes mean you need a nutrient that is in something your body is used to acquiring it from. That doesn't mean you must get it from that item.

SeaGlass Siren

07-14-2013, 09:03 AM

Strange I don't get cravings :| I usually eat whts available. Half the time i feel like eating mangos with rice and some meat though haha.

My bum looks perkier!!! Usually my butt looks flabby but today's the first time I'm looking at my rear end! Thighs feel a but smoother too but I can still see the uneven skin sag and stretch marks.

deepblue

07-14-2013, 10:23 AM

I never got cravings before I was pregnant, and now I do. I hope they go away, just because it's annoying to be thinking of food when there's no reason to.

MermaidBrittany

07-14-2013, 11:34 AM

The big thing with craving is proportions. If you crave something, its ok to eat it, but dont go over board. Be it chips, cookies, ice cream or whatever, make sure you put it in a bowl. That way, you can see how much you are eating and there is a limit on what you are having. :)

Mermaid Dottie

07-14-2013, 01:58 PM

Today is my rest day, but yesterday, I walked all over 4 different stores, and danced and carried the baby around a wedding reception. I didn't get home until 10:30. It was a good day. No sit-ups or anything, but that's still a lot of exercise.

SeaGlass Siren

07-14-2013, 04:18 PM

I was helping a friend move today. Lots of stairs and heavy box lifting. Forgot to do squatstoners less to say I'm pretty damn tired

Mermaid Varshana

07-14-2013, 04:44 PM

There is NO better workout on the planet than moving!

SeaGlass Siren

07-14-2013, 09:37 PM

Oh man I agree with that kakarotte ! Body is just so damn sore.

deepblue

07-15-2013, 03:22 PM

Seriously, especially if stairs are involved.

I've decided to forego squats because I don't seem to feel them where I should. Since my workout is already focused on glutes and thighs, I've got it covered. Just increasing my frequency of workouts. Didn't get a lot of sleep last night, woke up late, it's too hot... but I pointed fans at my workout area and did it anyway.

Endorphins are a nice reward. :)

SeaGlass Siren

07-15-2013, 07:25 PM

The first person to notice firmer thighs ? My boyfriend

deepblue

07-15-2013, 08:11 PM

:D That must have been very satisfying- when the only person other than you who gets to see or touch them very closely notices, it really tells you you're getting somewhere.

I'm just excited at the idea of dating again. I know that I am not going to until I'm comfortable with my own body again. Before pregnancy, I never had a lack of confidence there. Dating was never difficult, and I've never wanted for it if I wanted it, but damn- I've been single a long time, and I can't wait to feel like I look as good as I know I deserve to. I think a fitter body shows anyone looking that 'this person gives a damn about their health and knows they're worth it'- and I love that.

Mermaid Varshana

07-15-2013, 09:33 PM

Get'em, siren ;)

Mermaid Dottie

07-15-2013, 10:05 PM

So, yesterday at my mom's, I had 2 different people tell me I'm losing weight. Pretty nice of them, considering I still weigh 192 out of 210.

SeaGlass Siren

07-15-2013, 10:50 PM

Well keep this in mind: muscle weighs more than fat. Fat is fat but muscle is lean.

Blue, you can do it :)

Kakarotte, thanks :) my mom is the seco person to point out my "leg fat isn't sagging" LOL

SeaGlass Siren

07-15-2013, 10:53 PM

I think a fitter body shows anyone looking that 'this person gives a damn about their health and knows they're worth it'- and I love that.

Also I so totally concur with this statement.

deepblue

07-15-2013, 11:35 PM

I was thinking about the idea of muscle weighing more than fat, and how many people misunderstand this and say, "A pound equals a pound no matter what each pound is of." I think all of us here totally get that it's a matter of a pound of muscle taking less space than a pound of fat, but I thought I'd post this anyway because it's a great explanation.

Q: Does muscle really weigh more than fat?

A: Muscle does not weigh more than fat, any more than lead weighs more than feathers. A pound is a pound is a pound. Where the misunderstanding often comes in is that muscle is much more dense than fat, so that, by volume, it seems to weigh more. That is, a pound of muscle occupies less space than a pound of fat. In addition, because a pound of muscle burns more fat than a pound of fat, even at rest, by increasing your lean muscle tissue mass, you're helping your body burn more calories.

But back to your question. If you only have a small amount of weight to lose, then you may feel like the weight training is not helping you move down on the scale. In fact, the number may even go up, but you will look thinner. This is due to an increase in lean body mass (muscle, bone, blood volume) and a decrease in body fat. In other words, even if the scale doesn't change much, you will probably see a difference in how your clothes fit.

On the other hand, if you have a lot of weight to lose, you will also experience an increase in lean body mass and loss of body fat. But the results on the scale will probably be more dramatic.

Found here (http://www.weightwatchers.com/util/art/index_art.aspx?tabnum=1&art_id=8311&sc=128).

AND this is one of many reasons I don't own a scale. I don't weigh myself unless I'm at the doctor.

Mermaidmechanic

07-16-2013, 01:06 AM

So, since my career depends on me to be physically fit, I've found quite a few tricks to stay as such. Now, keep in mind I have hypothyroidism (which if you aren't aware, it affects your metabolism in a way that causes lethargy and significant weight gain) yet no one would know from looking at me. I'm lean with very visible definition in my stomach and arms with very little time spent working out. How do I obtain this? Well, a large part of what you look like is diet. Eat well, count calories. It really works. Also, juicing! If you don't own a juicer, you should totally get one! Nothing makes you feel better about yourself and more refreshed than a mason jar full of fresh made juice. I do a juice diet one week out of the month where all I ingest is water and juice (plus the pulp left over from the juicer if my tummy feels hungry and some canned pure pumpkin). It does wonders for your figure and its good for you. Then I break my one week diet with a nice juicy steak. ;) I can post pictures of my current shape if anyone is curious (I'm on a down trend right now as I've just moved cross country from CA to FL... drove with a pup and a parrot in my car! Hello fast food and no real physical activity for the past week) but i'm still in great shape. I've also been known to make diet plans for fellow service members in danger of the dreaded "taping" that goes along with our physical fitness standard qualifications. So, for those of you looking to shed pounds fast, diet is key! Should anyone want, I can even help with tasty recipes (including juice recipes!).

Mermaid Varshana

07-16-2013, 01:35 AM

How is your physical fitness measured for work? There are lots of people who are thin, have tone, but aren't actually fit even though they look it. Leanness and physical fitness are not one in the same. If you don't exercise much, you will probably not be as fit as someone who does or get the same benefits (increased strength, cardiovascular fitness and bone density) as someone who works out. That's a huge reason to exercise. I've never had a broken bone, can bench 125, and have a blood pressure of 85/56.

Mermaidmechanic

07-16-2013, 02:09 AM

It's easier to be in shape if you're happy with how you look, rather than the person who looks in the mirror and can only see what they don't like about themselves. But with the work thing, we have weight standards and are taped frequently. If you can't pass the tape and weight standards, you're on the fast track out of the military. Also, I found that my run time significantly improved after I started drinking juice frequently and my stamina is way up. I will say that despite not working out frequently, I am stronger than the average female, but I can easily claim it is due to my active lifestyle and the demanding work I due. I'm just saying that if you have an active hobby that you do frequently and eat healthy, you shouldn't have to waste hours of your life every week working out to be happy with how you look. Find something that you like rather then something you dread and along with a good diet you'll look and feel better. I don't bother memorizing stats about how much I lift or what my blood pressure is. I'm strong enough to carry a Fairbanks Morse piston from the pier to the engine room, install all 24 injection pumps without missing a beat in less than 30 min, torque a bolt down to 300 FT LBS without a cheater, and that's all that matters at the end of the day.

deepblue

07-16-2013, 05:19 AM

It's easier to be in shape if you're happy with how you look, rather than the person who looks in the mirror and can only see what they don't like about themselves.

But that leaves out the many people who aren't happy with how they look for really good reasons, and use that as motivation to get started on a change for the better.

Looking in the mirror and not being happy with how your body looks doesn't mean you're a person who sees only what they don't like. I think most people are in places between - not liking everything you see is a great motivator, and watching your own progress as you get fitter comes with a great sense of accomplishment.

I can't look in the mirror and be happy with a neglected, out of shape body and I won't pretend to. I won't pretend like I am not the only one responsible for my own happiness and how I feel about my body. It's under my control, and how fortunate are those of us who can say that? Very, esp since much of my life I couldn't have said that.

What's important is that people approach it in a healthy manner. It's sad that wanting to get healthy and fit has become something people view with suspicion.

12579

SeaGlass Siren

07-16-2013, 08:36 AM

:clap clap clap flap flap flap:

Bravo. Beautifully put

Mermaid Saphira

07-16-2013, 09:45 AM

for the most part im happy with my body shape when I slip into a dress... but when I wear bathing suits my fat just spills everywhere..

You took the words right out of my mouth. And that, right there, is the explantation as to why I never wear anything, but a dress :P

Five months from now my family is planning on a trip to the Bahamas and I would really like to get in better shape before I slip into a swimsuit there. I'd also like to feel a little better. I'm 5 foot 3, short in my opinion, and 120 pounds. I use to weigh 165, but I'm still not where I want to be. If anything, I simply want to lose and few pounds and tone up a little. I've been doing pilates this past week and, while I'm not losing any weight, I do feel more toned. This is the swimsuit I got to motivate myself ^-^

12582

Mermaid Varshana

07-16-2013, 10:04 AM

Don't get me wrong. Diet and active hobbies are super important. That's why I changed my diet....and, surprise! Weightlifting and rollerblading are my active hobbies :) I have heard good things about juicing too. I was so proud of myself when i did arm curls with 35lb dumbells, and when i did leg presses with 375. Along with what deepblue said - BRAVO!!! btw - unless they were blessed with übermensch genes, people naturally start losing muscle mass as they age, which means their diet has to get stricter and stricter to keep up with a changing metabolism. We dont have to lose muscle as we get into our 40's though! Working out prevents muscle loss. It's like....even if you like your job, your home, and your car, you sometimes have to do things you don't necessarily enjoy doing to keep those things. I HATE dead lifts and side lifts. But they make my back stronger and give me killer abs.

BTW, if you're doing all that stuff on the job, Mermaidmechanic, you're not actually hardly working out any more than a person whose job is a moving guy. I'm sure the physical stuff you do on the job accounts for much of your tone :) Changing your diet gave your muscles more bioavailable nutrients to grow. The results would probably be a bit different if you had a desk job. You are right in that DIET, DIET,DIET is the measuring stick for getting the body you want. A normal person can do 500 crunches every other day, but if they're eating a bunch of processed food , they're going to whine about how their abs are hiding under their flab.

Mermaid Varshana

07-16-2013, 10:14 AM

Five months from now my family is planning on a trip to the Bahamas and I would really like to get in better shape before I slip into a swimsuit there. I'd also like to feel a little better. I'm 5 foot 3, short in my opinion, and 120 pounds. I use to weigh 165, but I'm still not where I want to be. If anything, I simply want to lose and few pounds and tone up a little. I've been doing pilates this past week and, while I'm not losing any weight, I do feel more toned. This is the swimsuit I got to motivate myself ^-^

12582
It's so pretty!!!! Don't worry about not losing weight. I'm the same weight almost when I was a size 14, but I'm a 6-8 now. To a degree, the scale is a load of BS, and most women lie about their weight anyway.

check out this amazing site. It gives you a more realistic vision of how you actually look at your height and weight without body dysmorphia getting in the way. http://www.mybodygallery.com/

Mermaid Saphira

07-16-2013, 10:42 AM

^ Oh, that site is kind of interesting. I tried to find my body type "twin", but I don't look like any of them O_o

Anywho, I forgot to mention..have any of you tried Blogilates (http://www.blogilates.com)? It's the workout routines I've been doing, her beginner calender is alittle challenging, but totally worth it + I just love her cheery, motivational attitude :)

Mermaid Saphira

07-16-2013, 10:51 AM

Oh! I found one! My body is closest to this girl. http://www.mybodygallery.com/photos-2422-body-shape.htm?StartAt=1

Mermaid Syrena

07-16-2013, 11:39 AM

Saphira- I think the link to your picture that you posted is broken!
If your body is anything like the picture at the bodygallery that you posted, though... then I think that's amazing! I'm around the same stats (height, weight) as you- and I would LOVE to have a body shape like that. My boyfriend says my body's curvy, but I think that THAT body in the picture is my perfect definition of curvy, and it's beautiful! You should be proud.

Mermaid Saphira

07-16-2013, 11:48 AM

^ You're makin' me blush :3. Does the link work now?

Mermaid Syrena

07-16-2013, 11:53 AM

It does-- and I think you have a gorgeous hourglass body! You could totally rock that swimsuit already, IMO.

Mermaid Saphira

07-16-2013, 11:54 AM

Thank :D <3 I really do love my curves, but I want them to be just a little smaller. It would definately make me feel better and look better to :)

Mermaid Syrena

07-16-2013, 11:59 AM

Have you tried Jillian Michaels' 30 Day Shred? It's crazy intense- but just around 20 minutes long- and it worked great for me when I was on it. I hear it does its job of tightening curves!

Mermaid Saphira

07-16-2013, 12:01 PM

No, but I will be sure to look into it. I've been researching into this "smoothie diet" I found in Woman's World Magazine. I thought that and a bit of cardio, maybe some pilates, etc, would work best. :)

Mermaid Varshana

07-16-2013, 12:03 PM

HOLY DANGEROUS CURVES, BATMAN.

Mermaid Syrena

07-16-2013, 12:06 PM

Yeah. I'm no coach-- but having had extensive experience dabbling in different forms of exercise, getting to know different people etc-- I think your focus should mainly be a little bit of toning! Pilates would do that for you at a slower, more easy pace. 30 Day Shred and any sort of calisthenic exercise or weightlifting would get you there faster, and clean eating is a must.
Go, you! I'd say you have more than half of the battle won already! :)

Mermaid Saphira

07-16-2013, 12:10 PM

^ Well thank you for the insight, I will be sure to look into it more. You have exactly what I'd like to do in mind :)

@Kakarotte: Hahaha, thanq :lol:

Mermaid Saphira

07-16-2013, 12:44 PM

Okay, so, Jillian's 30 day Shred....

Video 1: Level 1, repeat for 10 days...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Pc-NizMgg8

Video 2: Level 2, repeat for 10 days...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HxvLerfthAA

Video 3: Level 3, repeat for 10 days...
(apparently this one isn't on youtube)

Jillian was always a little intimedating to me >.> lol

Mermaid Syrena

07-16-2013, 12:53 PM

Well done on tracking down her 1st 2 videos, lol. That was fast work. You CAN find the 3rd one... through other means, if you know what I mean. It's not very hard.

I PROMISE you that by Day 4, you will feel like dying and you will possibly be in crippling pain. Push through, though. Once you break through the Day 4/5 plateau, you'll find you're actually getting into the swing of things. Just keep reminding yourself that it's only 20 minutes-- 20 measly minutes!-- of your day. Yes I agree that Jillian IS intimidating, but that's just cuz she kicks butt. And you'll find she's actually quite motivational. <3

Keep me posted with your progress, hon! I'm looking forward to hearing all about it!

Mermaid Saphira

07-16-2013, 12:58 PM

I'm going to need some decent work out clothes. To Kohl's!!! *superman lunge* :) lol. I'll be sure to let you guys know how everything turns out!

ShyMer

07-16-2013, 01:14 PM

I assume this hasn't been left here yet...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdX_OBUeHb4

and this handy english lesson/workout video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRerwXWTRjM

You're welcome.

Mermaid Saphira

07-16-2013, 01:29 PM

Major headache, I had to skip through most parts of the last one xD

SeaGlass Siren

07-16-2013, 01:36 PM

I assume this hasn't been left here yet...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdX_OBUeHb4

and this handy english lesson/workout video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRerwXWTRjM

You're welcome.
Oh my god I've seen that one!! XD

Take anything you want, I was robbed by two men, hasta la vista baby and this other one but I don't remember xD

Mermaid Saphira

07-16-2013, 01:37 PM

ShyMer

07-16-2013, 01:44 PM

I've heard that working out too late in the evening might make it difficult to sleep for some people. I don't have that problem most of the time, but it may be something to consider.

Mermaid Saphira

07-16-2013, 01:47 PM

I don't have that problem either, usually puts me to sleep if anything else xD

Mermaid Varshana

07-16-2013, 01:48 PM

At what time do you thin it is best to workout? In the morning or in the evening?
I've read that workingout in the morning will 'create' a faster metabolism, burning more calories throughout the day. But, I've also read that workingout in the evening burns off calories you've consumed during the day and tends to be the easiest time for people to work into their schedule.
Studies are showing that there is little evidence that it matters when you eat or exercise, except for your first meal, which should be eaten within a couple of hours of waking. I usually exercise in the evening. Calories in, calories out. It matters more WHAT you're doing and eating rather than WHEN.

I just wanna say that I ate a spinach salad with soy chicken, carrots, radishes, turkey bacon and raspberry vinaigrette, and it was a mouth orgasm O.O

deepblue

07-16-2013, 01:48 PM

I prefer to work out in the morning. I wake up, drink a huge glass of water, then eat breakfast- which for me is citrus fruit and raw almonds (mornings and me don't get along, in any way and if I eat anything cooked at all as my first meal, my stomach hates me for it lol), enough to satisfy me- and then wait about 30 minutes and work out. The rest of my day I'm using endorphins and I'm energized.

If I work out at night, I'm all endorphins rushing around with nowhere to go, and hungry because I'm in bed instead of giving my body the calories and nutrients it needs to build the bone and muscle that just got worked out.

Also, it's SO good to see so many new people showing up in this thread!

SeaGlass Siren

07-16-2013, 02:25 PM

I work out in the morning. Eat a big big breakfast and eat small meals throughout the day

Mermaid Saphira

07-16-2013, 07:00 PM

Okay guys! I've got to dig up my weights and find my gym clothes in the laundry hamper, then I'm going to go ahead and try this Jillian's 30 day shred thing. Pray that the exersise gods and mercy on me! xD

deepblue

07-16-2013, 07:22 PM

I look forward to your reports! I'd love to hear how it works for you. :D

I'm happy- my mom was here today and she pointed out that I'm looking very trim and fit. Right on. :cool: I have so far to go. I look great in clothes, but I want to look great nekkid. lol

Mermaid Saphira

07-16-2013, 09:35 PM

haha! I'm going to quote that orange juice commercial "Who doesn't want to cut calories and look better naked?" xD

Anywho, I tried the video and I'm typing this so I'm obviously not dead. lol. I must admit, not matter how sad, those jumpjacks, I was sure, were going to be the end of me xD I'm all sweaty now so I think I'll take a shower :)

SeaGlass Siren

07-16-2013, 10:36 PM

Rat-Soup

07-17-2013, 01:10 AM

Ok, so I read through as much of this thread as I could before replying, and yes I skimmed some of it, but there are a few exercise myths I have to address.

1. SPOT REDUCTION DOES NOT WORK

The idea that you can lose fat from only one part of your body while leaving the rest relatively untouched is false. Your body loses fat from everywhere at once. You cannot work one body part more to make the fat in that area shed faster. You CAN work one body part more in order to define the muscle better, but that's it.

2. IF WOMEN LIFT HEAVY WEIGHTS, IT WILL NOT MAKE YOU 'BULKY'

For one simple, biological reason; women simply DO NOT have enough testosterone to build muscle like those you see on a bodybuilder. The only way women can get THAT huge is through steroids, simple as that. However, that does not mean that naturally muscly women are an impossibility, but it take a VERY SPECIFIC kind of exercise and diet regime to make you gain that kind of competition muscle naturally.

If you want 'tone', lift weights. And I don't mean a million reps with one kilo dumbbells. I mean proper weights, with barbells. Aim for 5 sets of 3-5 reps at high weight for strength, and 3 sets of 10-15 reps of medium weight for hypertrophy (muscle building). And when I say medium weight, I mean something that you will just barley be able to finish with on the last rep of your last set. Same goes for the heavy weight. And for the love of hell, make sure you learn proper form on any lifts you attempt. Slow weight progression + proper form = greater fitness gains with no injury.

Weightlifting will also burn calories faster than cardio. That does not mean that cardio does not have its place, it's just that it should be used as a supplement to further cut down body fat percentage, rather than be the whole basis of your exercise regime.

3. BMI IS ALMOST USELESS IN IDENTIFYING THE HEALTH LEVEL OF AN INDIVIDUAL

This is an outdated system, invented in a time when we knew much less about fitness health than we do now. It is mostly accurate as a health indicator of a large population that is mostly sedentary. For individuals, it is almost useless. This becomes truer the fitter you get. Muscle weighs more than fat, so a simple formula like the BMI is grossly inaccurate.

A better indicator of fitness is body fat percentage. That is, how much fat your body has (beyond the absolute minimum amount of fat the body needs to function). There are levels of body fat that is healthy, and others that are not, and some that are simply unsustainable. This is usually measured with a fat caliper, or water tank weighing. Or, you could use this handy visual guide here if you need a quick reference: http://www.builtlean.com/2012/09/24/body-fat-percentage-men-women/

And finally

4. FAD DIETS AND CRASH DIETS ARE UNSUSTAINABLE AND OFTEN UNHEALTHY

Eating well is not rocket surgery. A simple guide to healthy eating is going with the 'clean' approach. Do you have to look up the ingredients or preservatives in a food item, or find them unpronounceable? Then don't eat it. Go with fresh produce where you can, and packaged food whose ingredients do not go beyond "tomatoes 80% water, salt, preservative". Generally try keep to a ratio of high protein, medium carbs, low fat for maintaining weight. Lower the carb intake for weight loss/cutting body fat. Increase it for bulking. Always keep the protein high so as not to lose muscle mass while losing weight. Remember to choose high fat over high sugar if there is a toss up. Sugar is worse than fat. Your body knows how to deal with fat. It has no idea how to deal with sugar well. Eating healthy does not have to be boring. If you are generally eating well but cannot be bothered micro-managing everything (like me), just work out more. However, if your diet is mostly McDonalds, you are going to be out of luck. You cannot out-train a bad diet.

Hope this was useful in some way and didn't come off as preachy. I'm sorry if this was already covered in some of the pages I skimmed over.

deepblue

07-17-2013, 06:34 AM

Rat-soup- sure, those things have been covered, as we've gone along, usually in direct response to someone posting about it. No one's talked about fad diets yet, which is great- unless I missed that. I think we have an extremely diverse population of mers and we all have our own ways of eating, and each can be done smartly or improved upon, or even changed entirely. That doesn't mean we don't want people to contribute their information. I'm sure these things will all get covered again, as we go along, within conversation.

Can you tell us what your better body goals are and how you either achieve them or hope to? Maybe you can tell us how you utilize that information for your own better body goals.

Usagi

07-17-2013, 07:29 AM

Holy crap, Saphira! You're hot!! Haha but aren't you like 14? Why are you worrying? You should be off frolicking in fields and riding ponies and enjoying your youth! :P

Urgh. It seems I've been building up muscle in my thighs...but the fat isn't going away! ):<

Idk about "fad" diets not working. Last summer, I was stupid and desperate enough to kind of stop eating for a week or two. I even went to Warped Tour, where you were pretty much sweating as soon as you got out of the car. The only thing I ate that day was the lettuce off my boyfriend's burger. Honestly, I think I might have been trying to get his attention by only eating that. Like a cry for help or something. In those 1-2 weeks I dropped about 10 pounds (maybe I sweated it all away! haha). Which, now that I think about it, is kinda scary. I lost a lot of my already non-existent boobs lol they're starting to come back, though. But I haven't gained any of the weight back! I've actually lost more! But I was really tired and irritable. I DO NOT recommend it.

I DO recommend increasing your water intake. I think most people know that, though.

And I think some of the people of that website lie...I was looking for my match..one picture said the girl was 5' 1" and 130 pounds, and she looked like a damn model. Haha unless her boobs weighed like 15 pounds each, I don't see how that's possible. Hahaha

Mermaid Varshana

07-17-2013, 07:34 AM

Women usually lie about their weight, so when we see real numbers and the bodies that match, we're often surprised.

deepblue

07-17-2013, 08:26 AM

Idk about "fad" diets not working. ~snip~. I DO NOT recommend it.

Right- that's where the not working comes in... any 'diet' that makes you lose weight rapidly and can't be sustained is' not working'. If you can't eat the way you are for the rest of your life and be okay, is it smart? Unless you're talking about a specialized short term situation under medical advice, I know that happens. But under basic, normal circumstances, if you can't eat the way you are and be healthy with it long term, then it's probably not a good idea.

And it can screw with your metabolism, and when you start eating normally again, you'll gain so much back, and it gets stored, because your body had just been through a period of time in which it thought it was starving. Our bodies have come from eons of humanity that went through droughts and famine, and harsh seasons, and they're made to survive it if possible- only now most of us are in a time of plenty, with more choices than our ancestors ever had, but our bodies are still only human. Or mer. :p

And anyway, eating great all the time means you can have a day here or there of whatever you want and not only can you not eat too much with a stomach used to less, but it won't change your metabolism if it's just a day.

Mermaid Saphira

07-17-2013, 10:18 AM

Holy crap, Saphira! You're hot!! Haha but aren't you like 14? Why are you worrying? You should be off frolicking in fields and riding ponies and enjoying your youth! :P

I know, I know, but I'd like to get in shape. I've had some bad health problems since I was little and I don't want them to get in my way anymore. Plus, it doesn't hurt to look great in a new dress along the way ;) lol

Mermaid Dottie

07-17-2013, 12:22 PM

All right guys! 25 (actually 27:46) minutes of cardio, 30 sit ups, and 10 pushups.
I hurt! in a good way, though. ^_^

Mermaid Syrena

07-17-2013, 12:34 PM

Yay, Dottie! Well done! *waves pompoms* Yeah that hurt feels good, lol.

I did my usual interval treadmill run today. I've noticed that since I've started interval running, more people have commented that I look fitter and slightly slimmer. Which is a big achievement for me- I usually put on muscle relatively easy- and I know, I know, "lifting heavy weights and getting bulky" is supposed to be a myth for girls... but I did feel myself getting bigger, when I was lifting heavy!
Now that I'm interval training and doing moderate weights, I feel like I'm in a place where I like my body better. I also do Herbalife shakes twice a day. I know a lot of people are wary of Herbalife-- but I don't do the MLM shizz. For me, it's just an easy way to shake up a protein shake and have that as a meal. (classes keep me pretty busy!)

Mermaid Dottie

07-17-2013, 01:01 PM

Awww... Thanks Magick!

I just looked at that Rat-soup's suggested website. I found this body fat percentage calculator (http://www.healthyforms.com/helpful-tools/body-fat-percentage.php) to go with it. I don't know how accurate it is, but according to my clumsy math, it appears to work fairly well.
And here's a lean body mass calculator (http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/lbm_calculator.htm).

According to these calculators, I have a 33% body fat, and my lean body mass is 128. Comparing my picture that I posted the other day, to the pictures given on the website That seems right. I would like to get my body fat percentage down to around 25%. Anymer know how to do that?

Mermaid Syrena

07-17-2013, 01:46 PM

Haha, Dottie- that's the first time anybody's called me "Magick"! ;P
My actual mer-name is Syrena (chose it before watching POTC 4, meh), and I'm trying to get it changed to that. I know there's a Sirena and a Mermaid Sirena on Mernetwork, though.

I'd recommend:
1. Clean eating, with a little calorie deficit --> You can google "daily caloric needs calculator", and it'll give you a rough estimate of how many calories you should be consuming a day. Bear in mind that you should still be filling yourself up with good, nutritious food, though! 300 calories of a wholewheat sandwich does NOT equal 300 calories of chocolate! ... Also, I say "a little calorie deficit" because if you try to starve yourself- your body goes into starvation mode, which promotes fat storage. Which is not what we want.
2. Cardio- you're doing great on this already, keep it up!
3. Muscle-toning - keep up the pushups and situps. If you could slowly work some weights in there, that would greatly help.
4. Water - at least 2L a day, although I gun for 3 L when I'm feeling brave.
5. Sleep- not sleeping enough promotes the production of a certain chemical (the name eludes me now) that promotes fat storage.

Hope that helps! :)

Also, for some quick, natural fixes-- dandelion tea and ginger tea are great for mild detoxing and helping digestive problems.

Mermaid Varshana

07-17-2013, 04:20 PM

I second weight bearing exercises. I lost a lot of fat that way :)

SeaGlass Siren

07-17-2013, 05:57 PM

Guys after 1st 14 that's when you really feel the burn.

I thought I was doin it wrong but I guess I didn't feel anything because of how much thigh fat I had LOL...

But now... I'm feeling it reach my butt

Mermaid Dottie

07-17-2013, 06:49 PM

Magick Syrena, you are awesome.
I just got back on the Myfitnesspal app on my phone that keeps track of calories.
And I really do need to drink more water.
Weights, though.... I don't have money for weights, nor do I know anyone that has them. Is there anything I can use instead of real barbells?
And, where do I even start?
I've never used weights before, not even in school. I usually kept in shape because of the swim team. I didn't have to do P.E. because of that.

Mermaid Varshana

07-17-2013, 06:51 PM

Your own body weight. Giant sacks of sand from Home Depot. Full water jugs. Kitty litter jugs.

Usagi

07-17-2013, 09:32 PM

0_____________________0
I used to be grossed out by turkey burgers for some reason (I don't eat beef or pork or seafood). But I had one last night. OH MY GOD. It's so delicious. TuT (happy crying, lol). and it has 20 g of protein and only 9 g of fat. Yummmm

I think baby-lifting would be good exercise. Hahaha

Rat-Soup

07-17-2013, 11:34 PM

Largely, I would like to get stronger. My forseeable goals are to be able to lift twice my body weight (110kg) on the major lifts (Deadlift, Squat, Bench). Maybe focus on my upper body strength some more. My current lifts are as follows:

Deadlift 80kg (2 Rep Max.)
Squat 55kg (Working weight. Don't know my 1RM)
Bench 35kg
Rows 37kg
Overhead Press 25kg

As you can see, my upper body needs work. Working on being able to do at least 10 pull-ups (currently on 2. Le sigh)

I don't really focus on my appearance much r.e weight and so on (probably one of the very few people I have known to not have body image issues like that), but I recently discovered I really like the muscled aesthetic so I'm largely aiming for that. Probably around the 15%-17% body fat mark in the guide above, but with more muscle. Probably not to be sustained for too long, I mostly want to get there for the purpose of cosplaying as a Femme-Bane for Supanova con this time next year. I lift Mon, Wed, Fri, and do Tabata-style sprints (20 sec sprint, 10 sec walk, for as long as possible. I can go for 4 1/2 minutes currently) on Tue and Thur. Rest on weekends. I SAY rest, but I usually end up going raving or clubbing and dance for about 8 hours or something ridiculous like that.

My eating habits are pretty modest. I was brought up with a pretty healthy approach to food. I only eat until I'm full and no further. I have never eaten to the point of nausea and food comas are pretty rare for me. I prefer simply flavoured food. A nearly raw, unseasoned kangaroo steak and steamed veggies with no sauce are a regular dinner occurance for me, and not because I'm lazy (which I am). I stick pretty much exclusively to wholemeal pasta and bread. I don't really keep track of exactly how much protein/fat/carbs I get in every meal. I find the whole micromanaging-what-you-eat thing waaaaay too much effort. I'd rather just work out more. Some people prefer it the other way around.

My supplementation is pretty simple. Fish oil, magnesium/zinc daily, a pre-workout before I train and a protein shake after. Thinking about getting on to a daily creatine supplement as well (there's creatine in the pre-workout I take, but I think you need to take a small amout daily for more noticeable muscle gain results through creatine supplementation specifically).

I'll see if I can put up some body shots. I don't have internet at home, only at work or at my partners' places, and uploading a mostly undressed photo of myself at work doesn't seem like a good idea... =S

XMermaidMarinaX

07-18-2013, 12:05 AM

I want to tone up, and exercise, eat healthier, and basically just be a fitter me.

Mermaid Dottie

07-18-2013, 02:41 PM

Mermaid Dottie

07-18-2013, 03:16 PM

Oh, right!
Here's my daily update:
32 minutes of Tracey Mallett cardio
and I once again did push-ups, and sit-ups when I couldn't keep up with exactly what she was doing.
I did 3 reps of 15 push-ups (and one of 10) and three reps of ten sit-ups.

For breakfast I had 1 cup of12685 with 3/4 skim milk, and after my workout I was feeling peckish, so I had an 8 oz. 12686 and then 6 oz. of 12687

And only three bites of the carrot cake I was gifted with yesterday by my neighbor's daughter.

Mermaid Varshana

07-18-2013, 03:37 PM

There's a YouTube video for everything. Also, I've been lifting weights since Jesus was riding velociraptors. If you have questions about the hows, just PM me.

Mermaid Dottie

07-18-2013, 04:18 PM

Kakarotte, you are just awesome. :mermaid kiss:

Does anybody track their progress with photos? I've started doing a daily photo log, taking pictures of my gross belly fat. I kind of want to watch it disappear visually, because I won't know if I'm making progress any other way. (except, I might measure my waist once a week, y'know, just for flips and bubbles?)
I'm going to put my photos in my grid every day, to keep myself motivated.
12689

SeaGlass Siren

07-18-2013, 09:35 PM

I realized that mint tea helps reduce bloating. I look significantly thinner now

deepblue

07-18-2013, 11:23 PM

I've started doing a daily photo log, taking pictures of my gross belly fat. I kind of want to watch it disappear visually, because I won't know if I'm making progress any other way. (except, I might measure my waist once a week, y'know, just for flips and bubbles?)

That's a great idea. I really need to borrow a camera or something. What a great way to watch your own progress.

One way I can tell I'm having progress is that my jeans are looser on me. I look forward to the day I have to take them in.

Mermaid Arianna

07-19-2013, 12:40 AM

Well what do you know, it's Thursday and I completely forgot.. *sigh* summer brain guys, anyways, last night I borrowed my dads 8 pound dumbbells and he showed me an arm workout thing he did when he hurt his arm, and now my arms are sooooo sore it's not even funny, it was a ten minute workout for arms and about 10-15 minutes of ab workouts, I'm actually starting to notice a difference in my stomach, but yeah.... I found the greatest website a few weeks ago http://www.blogilates.com/ she posts recipes and workouts that only take a few minutes but really hurt! 12725 so hopefully the picture works but yeah...

SeaGlass Siren

07-19-2013, 08:17 AM

Just did 155. DAT burning.

Mermaid Oshun

07-19-2013, 09:16 AM

Yeah, I do carry the baby around a lot, and his weight gradually increases naturally. (he's a bit over 20 pounds now, I think.)
Water jugs is a really good idea.
What about cans of food? Or is that too light?
Like I said, I have never, ever tried weight lifting before. I don't think I know how. 0.o

Also, Rat-Soup,
Have you introduced yourself (http://mernetwork.com/index/forumdisplay.php?7-Introduce-Yourself)on the forum yet?
I'd like to know more about you and your interest in merfolk.
I used to have a horse so I frequently carried 60 and 80 pound bales of hay. Everyday I carried a 5 gallon bucket of water and a bucket of grain across the field, lugged 40 pound saddles. Had to walk back and forward across the field regularly. So my arms started looking like Madonna's and I did not like it at all. Now I have a more appropriate median with regard to my exercise and my body looks more attractive to me. My mother did her own roof at 60 years old and she framed rooms herself in her spare space in her house at 70. She still looks muscular/lean with big hips at 70! Her arms and legs are lean like a barbie doll but she had huge hips and round posterior. When she was a little girl she broke her horse bareback by just grabbing its mane, jumping on and holding on over and over until it was broke. She frequently rode her horse bareback. Lately though she got sick and lost a lot of weight. The doctor told her to gain at least 10 pounds. She still mows her own lawn and does yard work in her 70s. She never needed a gym or exercises because she did it the natural way.

Mermaid Varshana

07-19-2013, 10:17 AM

It depends on your genes, really, GP. I work out at a gym and lift weights because my genes cause me to deposit fat in a way that makes me look chubby/become chubby if I don't work my ass off with free weights. Luckily, my fat genes made it possible for me to still have an ass and some boobs ;) I used to only use my own body weight and bike and rollerblade, but I still was quite rotund in a way I didn't like. I do have friends who can just do cardio - or nothing - and look like they belong in magazines. I encourage people to try different things to see where that gets them.

Mermaid Varshana

07-19-2013, 11:04 AM

Btw, check out my avatar. DEM'S MY CHILDBEARING HIPS. Those hourglass curves belong to a woman who religiously lifts weights like the boys do 3 times a week ;)

Mermaid Arianna

07-19-2013, 01:02 PM

http://youngnhealthy.com/programs I've been following Brooke from Young N' Healthy on instagram for a while now. They just redid their site and the 30 program is free! look at the success stories page as well, they are very inspiring! So yeah...

deepblue

07-19-2013, 07:42 PM

Btw, check out my avatar. DEM'S MY CHILDBEARING HIPS. Those hourglass curves belong to a woman who religiously lifts weights like the boys do 3 times a week ;)

I've got the same thing. No matter what I do, I've got the hips - but I'm really glad, because I like them. :)

Color me stoked, and this is why.

While I've had one pair of jeans for a few months, and I wash and wear and repeat, and they got looser, they're a man's size 30x30, they rest on my hips. I haven't been able to try anything new on, no money for it until next month.

But, last time I went to try on women's jeans, about two months ago, size 8 were snug, but too big around the waist. 6 was too tight on the thighs and hips, and a little tight on the belly. Today, a friend gave me two pairs of jeans because she hasn't fit into them in ages. They're size 8. And they are WAY TOO BIG. YAY! Two brands, both size 8, too big. I could probably yank them down past my hips while zipped and buttoned.

My size when I'm fit is 6, so this makes me really happy. All I want out of this is to be my best size and shape, which for me is a 6 and with toned muscles. I'm going to a store to try on size 6 asap, even if I can't but them yet. I want to know if I've really reached that part of my goal. :D

And then to sustain it! No point in getting there if one doesn't keep going.

Mermaid Varshana

07-19-2013, 08:58 PM

I've got the same thing. No matter what I do, I've got the hips - but I'm really glad, because I like them. :)

Color me stoked, and this is why.

While I've had one pair of jeans for a few months, and I wash and wear and repeat, and they got looser, they're a man's size 30x30, they rest on my hips. I haven't been able to try anything new on, no money for it until next month.

But, last time I went to try on women's jeans, about two months ago, size 8 were snug, but too big around the waist. 6 was too tight on the thighs and hips, and a little tight on the belly. Today, a friend gave me two pairs of jeans because she hasn't fit into them in ages. They're size 8. And they are WAY TOO BIG. YAY! Two brands, both size 8, too big. I could probably yank them down past my hips while zipped and buttoned.

My size when I'm fit is 6, so this makes me really happy. All I want out of this is to be my best size and shape, which for me is a 6 and with toned muscles. I'm going to a store to try on size 6 asap, even if I can't but them yet. I want to know if I've really reached that part of my goal. :D

We're body sisters!!! CONGRATS and HUZZAH! Gives me hope that I can keep my body after I have a kiddo.

deepblue

07-19-2013, 09:16 PM

I don't think it needs to take as long as it did for me, either! I got started on this late because of numerous health issues that kept me from starting earlier. Heck yeah you can get your body back in shape after baby. :) And what a good example we set for the little ones who see us taking care of ourselves.

Mermaid Dottie

07-20-2013, 03:33 PM

Thank you DeepBlue! I needed that! My son is almost a year old now, I'm still 185 pounds. :( I gained 20 when I got married and 30 while preggers. :( I was 210 in the hospital last August. The only thing that's made me feel a little better is that I heard it can take up to three years for some people. Sorry! Off on a tangent! Anyway, I was 160 lbs when I got married, with some muscle. I felt fantastic back then. I want to get back to that. I know that's a healthy weight/size for me. I also think I look sexy back in those pictures. Anywhere from 150 -165 pounds is good for me.
And... Here's yesterday and today's photos on my grid.
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SeaGlass Siren

07-20-2013, 11:34 PM

Bought my wedding dress today. Mama said I looked like a model because of my figure.

I guess that mean I reached my desirable size!

SeaSister

07-21-2013, 12:07 AM

This is a great idea for a thread! :)

Like deepblue, I'm not too keen on weighing myself, at least not often. What I look like matters more to me than how many pounds I have, especially considering there's muscle weight and fat weight. At the moment, I'm not overweight or anything; 145 - 150 lbs and 5'7". But it's 145 lbs of fat, which is what really bothers me. I'm ridiculously out of shape, and I really want to get fit. I currently attend Aquafit and yoga classes about once or twice a week, as well as go on walks/hikes, but it really isn't enough to get me to where I want. What I need is muscle. And for that, I guess I need to pick up some dumb-bells. -gulps-

I'll probably post some "before" pictures in the near future but, er, I'm generally pretty reluctant when it comes to taking pictures of myself. I don't like "selfies" (at least, not ones with ridiculous pouty lips and sexy poses), and unless I actually look good in a picture (which is rare), I won't upload it online. So, yeah. Forcing myself to get someone to take pictures of my BODY, then upload them... that's an idea that'll take a fair bit of warming up to.

Btw, taking pictures of yourself to mark progress is a really good idea! I'm glad that it keeps you motivated. :)
Personally, I don't think I would be able to, at least not every day. Losing weight/getting a nice figure is a process that takes a LONG time, and I think that I, personally, would just feel demotivated by taking a picture every single day and not seeing much progress. Maybe once a week would work for me, but definitely not every day.

PS, CONGRATS Andrea! I'm so happy for you. :D

Coradion

07-21-2013, 12:21 AM

I'll post up my progress, I changed up my diet a lot and have been going out every day and doing something different.

Usagi

07-21-2013, 08:13 AM

Why do my bones grind against each other when I work out? D:< ugh I hate it. It hurts and sounds creepy hhaha

I've been snacking on sweets a lot. :C

SeaGlass Siren

07-21-2013, 08:42 AM

Thankyou sea sister :)

Mermaid Oshun

07-21-2013, 09:05 AM

I know the hips will still be there when you lose weight. Here I am as a size 8 with my horse Dixie. I just prefer the Bettie Boop /Jessica rabbit effect though personally instead of the linear look
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I prefer the size 12/14 look better. Call me crazy :lol:
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Mermaid Varshana

07-21-2013, 09:12 AM

Not crazy at all. Beauty is 100% subjective and personalized :)

Mermaid Varshana

07-21-2013, 09:14 AM

When I was that size, I'm afraid I didn't have the same curves. I looked like a sack of potatoes :)

Mermaid Oshun

07-21-2013, 09:22 AM

i know what you mean about that risk Karkarotte. That is why I know the waist line is key to maintain regardless of the rest. And I always find myself wearing some sort of waist cincher when I get bigger. I have decided I may get tummy liposuction so I can feel safe at this weight and keep the curvy look I prefer.

Mermaid Varshana

07-21-2013, 09:48 AM

Nothing wrong with that. When my husband starts getting lawyer money, he's given me the green light to touch up some premature aging around my eyes and mouth caused by a former, much more stressful relationship and money/employment difficulties :)

Mermaid Oshun

07-21-2013, 09:50 AM

go for it!!

Mizuko

07-21-2013, 07:43 PM

My sister is a beautician and is qualified for botox... its been a really rough year for me, and now I have some forehead wrinkles (at 24...) even though I'm pretty meticulous about my skin routine. I was SO close to asking her to give me some last time I visited home- but I havn't yet: I'm giving a deep hydration moisturiser a go, and hoping the stress levels decrease in the coming weeks :P
As for body goals, I'm 'ok' regarding my body, but I could feel better about it. I'm only just beginning to feel sexy in my body- like a woman instead of a girl. But I admire fit, toned women (I think growing up reading Michael Turner's Fathom comics made me want to look like the strong ladies there!) and I'm aiming to be one by summer (December) this year! So I've got myself an interval training boot-camp workout dvd (as I cant afford the gym!) and I'm hoping it will arrive today so I can start tonight :) I'm relatively fit, but I'll only aim for two nights a week doing it, as well as swimming two nights/days a week for recovery. I dont want to overload myself XD
Also, I dont weigh myself. Some of my friends are super paranoid about weight- and I hate it. I haven't weighed myself in two years. I go by my measurements and how my clothes fit- and most importantly- how happy I am with the way I look :3