A review of the weight loss program

     I have had many people asking me what program I am using. So, I am dedicating today's blog to sharing that information.
     First, exercise. I am riding the stationary bike (and reading) for 30-40 minutes every day. I choose a program that alternates the levels of tension. This can be rather amusing, since I don't watch the monitor.
     I have several times been at a really intense part of my book, and all of a sudden I feel like I am riding straight up a hill, not just a little hill, mind you, but one reaching directly to the zenith.
     So, then I lose my place until I start going back downhill again. Ahh . . . the trials of reading and riding.
     I try to play racquetball three times a week, and I usually squeeze in at least three games when I play, which honestly does not feel like I am working out at all. My competitive streak in me doesn't sense the time I am playing, but rather senses the score only.
     A couple times a week I try to run and walk on the treadmill. Well, not run exactly, more like jog. I alternate walking for a minute and then jogging for a minute.
     Most recently I have started to walk with a colleague two days a week during our lunch. We walk uphill (no, not both ways) at a brisk pace.
     Then six days a week I am weight training. I work on a different group of muscles each day. I have four exercises per muscle group, and I complete three sets of each.
     Once I have started exercising, I realize how easy it is to squeeze it in, if I choose to make time for it.
     Food. Have I mentioned how much I love food? I am eating breakfast every morning, which I have only heard to do for my entire life, but never have before. It definitely makes a difference. I don't feel hungry all morning.
     I try to snack on something healthy in the morning and afternoon, and I eat two sensible meals at lunch and dinner. My nightcap includes some sort of treat like popcorn, Jell-O, pudding or a soymilk shake.
     I make sure I always have good snacks around for those stress or emotional eating times. The other day I did not have anything in my bag, so I chewed on a piece of gum, and it worked!
     Basically, the bottom line for my food is I am NOT counting calories. I am paying attention to what and how much enters my mouth.
     I am not eating any sugar, except natural (fruit, etc.) and some Splenda products. I have also eliminated all white flour and, at this point, I am not eating any bread whatsoever.
     Last, but most important, I am drinking tons of water. This is such a benefit (see previous water entry); it does suppress my appetite.
     What I have done is find out what works for me. I have taken bits and pieces from here and there, and I have found that my program fits my needs right now.
     I know that once I lose all the weight, I will alter my program to meet my new needs of maintaining. But, for now, I am doing exactly what I need to be doing.