It's Not Working

Ok, I wanted to use the title "The Gym Isn't Working" but there is a blog with that name and I didn't want to cause any problems. But,

the_gym_isn't_working...

I lost all of two pounds the first two months. And yes, I know muscle weighs more than fat, so that didn't bother me too much. But it's been three months, and I've gained a half pound. I work out consistently at least three times a week, I don't eat junk, I choose healthy food MOST of the time. There are times when I do treat myself to a little sugar. And I watch my portions. Even SR comments on how little I eat. I was advised that maybe I wasn't eating enough, but trust me, I stay hungry all the time, so I am eating often enough. You would think I would lose at least a pound a month wouldn't you? Even with the building of muscle. It's very frustrating and makes it very hard to keep on keeping on. Still, I'm doing it and decided to try to at least walk for 20 minutes when I don't go to the gym. I did take today off, just because I'm so tired and felt like I needed a break. I don't want to break myself down.

My normal routine is to get on the elliptical first and go at a brisk pace for 30 minutes. I then work on the weight machines for about 10 or 15, working my upper and lower muscle groups. Before I leave I walk on the treadmill for a mile or until my feet or back decide I've had enough. Sometimes I wind up working for an hour, but most of the time it's really about 50 minutes or so. I decided to change things up, so I worked on everything Monday but yesterday, I just walked on the treadmill and worked my upper body. I planned to do the elliptical and lower body today, but was just too darn tired.

I have been reading a diet that my cardiologist suggested and follows. I am no dieter, and they never work for me. I decided months ago, to make a life change, as they say, and I choose nuts, fruits, whole wheat products, etc. Along with lean meat and lentils. Yes, I do eat some beef on occasion, and I've added more tuna to the list, eventhough I really don't like it unless it's mixed up with Miracle Whip and relish. I didn't even eat what I cooked for SR last night, because it was beef and potatoes. Not a good combination, but his heart is strong as an ox and his cholesterol is at the level most folks would love to have.

Yes, I can see where some of my muscles are toning up nicely. That doesn't make me feel any better, when my clothes are still too tight. And my body shape seems to be changing so what does fit, fits differently and not in a good way. So, here I am again, whining about it. I know I can't change a year of weight gain in three months, so I'll get some rest today, and start again tomorrow. Wish me luck and keep me in your prayers.