Hello

Hi SoS,

I was there three years ago, playing cricket, overweight, back problems, and 30. Now I am 33 and I have qualified for the provincial swimming championshiops in West Flanders.

I have been on all sorts of diets and there is only one that worked. Eating sensibly and exercising. You need to burn more than you put in. Try writing down everything you eat or drink. Start cutting out the unnecessary stuff like coke or beer, have a diet coke or water instead. Everytime you resist, you will feel better, even if it is 1 out of 3, it is a start. Don't run much at this stage, I started swimming after a long 20 year break.

I have joined weight watchers, there is no meetings or milk shakes, you get the info and a diet sheet where you write down your points. They explain the differences such as a coke is 3 points and a diet coke is 0. When you only have 25 - 30 points a day available, you feel great about not wasting them on a cookie etc. Basically, avoid sugar and fat.

Exercise, I started swimming and static cycling. Now I cycle in the morning, have a gymn session at lunch and swim in the evening, but that is because I have another goal. Don't overdo it, otherwise you will quit as soon as you start. Swimming is great for your back. See your physio though, they will know better.

You have taken the first step, which in my experience is the hardest. I have lost 18Kg this year and am targetting 35 for the year, and another 10 next year. It is not at all impossible, and I am not a bodybuilder advertising some fantastic useless piece of equipment. It's back to basics, it works.

If you want, send me a mail or message every day if you like, we all have bad days and encouragement is always greatly received, and if I can help I will be happier for it.

And finally, start with your head. Self esteem is vital for this and calling yourself a sack of spuds won't make you feel better.

r/Roderick

Thanks for your reply Roderick. I might just take you up on that offer :D

And my username is more in reference to how I usually hit the floor when I pick up my numerous injuries! lol - like a sack of spuds! :lol:

I shall pm you when I get a little more free time.

SoS