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I've only used SIS gels and never had a problem with them. I have some High5 ones in the cupboard and I'm doing 13 miles in the morning so I'll try them and let you know how I get on. It might be the heat . . . I bought shorts that have four gel pockets and two elastic loops as well as a zip...

Now that I'm only "training" for half marathons I seemed to have become a little lazy in my approach to training and haven't been putting in the long runs. Having said that, I was rather committed to my marathon preparation over the winter, so maybe I'm looking at it from the wrong perspective...

The whole way I knew I could do it. I had put the training in and there was never a moment in my prep or during the race that I didn't think I could finish. I wasn't sure that I'd be able to run the whole way, but save for a hundred metres or so, I did run the whole way. As long as I finished...

Thanks Rachel :) Good decision to withdraw from Edinburgh. It's no good running with an injury. You've got to learn to stay on your feet though - no more of this falling over silliness!!! I was incredibly pleased with my marathon time and have since competed in a number of shorter races...

I ran in my first proper cani-cross race on Sunday and absolutely loved it. It was a 10k cross-country, through woods filled with bluebells and across fields with lovely views. I'm yet to do a half marathon, but so far I like the 10k distance the most. I also absolutely LOVED running with my...

Of course you can do it! Try Donna's advice of combining speed with miles :) :bliss:

Well done Donna! I can't recall reading/hearing about speed/distance until a race, but you hear so much conflicting advice that it's all so confusing. It obviously worked for you, so keep at it.

North Shropshire! Ran my local parkrun yesterday with my dog and out was brilliant. Today we're off to the welsh coast to cycle with the dogs :)

Just signed up for my first canicross event. Will be running it with my foxhound :) Better update my signature!!

You have a whole year to prepare so you can easily do it. I read some of your posts on the Les Mills thread - you are hardcore and a marathon will be a great challenge, but easily achievable. It is all in the mind . . .

My gym routine and the bootcamp included squats, lunges and plank; but I swapped gyms and routines in January and I now don't feel as strong as I was in my core. I'm going to revamp my gym routine in the next week to include these again.

Lara and Donna: I had never run before December 2011, when I managed to run half way down the street on my way to the gym as it was raining. I had started Slimming World at the start of October and the gym at the end of October, and it was all going well, so I came home and googled "beginners...

Hi everyone. I'm home from Paris now and want to share with you all how much I enjoyed my first marathon experience. Everything went exactly to plan (and I had planned everything!), taking on all sorts of advice from here and everywhere! Here is a list of my favourite things about running the...

Thanks! It went extremely well but the last few miles are killers. I finished dead on 4.30.00! Off to see more of Paris now :)

My target was £1000 and I'm at about £1100. I teach in an FE college and before I signed up I asked my colleagues and students to help me and they agreed. Students have had cake stalls, raffles and bucket collections. The college also donated the takings from a French-themed dinner in our...

I've reached my £1000 target for fundraising and now just have to run the 26.2 miles. I haven't quite stuck to my training plan because of the snow, but I have managed a few runs. I'm very excited now and just want to do it :) And I'm on school holidays for two weeks. :D

Good advice from Donna which I needed too. I've put on a little weight since doing longer runs and heard that is expected. Better to over fuel than under . . . . but Slimming World taught me how to do eat properly and I really should be eating healthy carbs . . . so I shall from now on. Thanks...

We are now connected!!

My top tip for relieving muscle soreness after a long run . . . AQUAFIT! I walk to Aquafit on a Sunday evening feeling all stiff and sore, and 45 minutes later I walk home feeling as light as air. Amazing :)

We are arriving in Paris on Friday morning and I think we will go to the Expo on Saturday. I'm going to do travel by metro to the start point on Saturday just so I'm not stressed about where I'm going on Sunday, and then we'll head to the Expo. We're staying to the south of the city on the...

Hi Zoe and anyone else running Paris Marathon (I can't follow a marathon plan, work full time and keep up with everyone on this thread!!) What's your plan for Paris? Have you run a marathon before? Do you have a goal in mind? Do you have a running partner? I'm running on my own and hope to...

Here is an article about parkrun from The Guardian: 'A parkrun is an unusual, even beautiful sight'

My last post of the night . . .! A guy from my running club posted on Facebook tonight that a colleague of his is running in the Ironbridge Half Marathon dressed in a fireman's uniform and boots whilst attempting a Guinness world record by finishing in under 2 hours 15 mins (he's aiming for...

Don't be intimidated by parkrun - there is a great atmosphere and all sorts of people are there. My local parkrun is new - started 16th Feb and I volunteered at the first three, so last Saturday was the first time I had run. I'm volunteering the next two weeks, so it will be a while before I...

I'm a size 10 and the small fit perfectly. I think the mediums would be a size 14. I bought mine at a local running shop so got to try them on first. I too prefer to try before I buy . . .

parkrun yesterday - 5km in 24:34 and ran my fastest mile ever - 7:38. I am over the moon with that :)

I've been busy running, walking dogs, parkrun volunteering, fundraising and going to aquafit. All going well though :) Longest run 20 miles and I survived. Took my little terrier on a 17 mile run and she survived too!! Oh, and I'm loving my new shorts with the gel pockets!

20 miles took about 3:20. I ran with a lady I met at running club and I tried to stay at 10 min miles but the first 5 miles were down hill so we went a bit faster, the next 10 miles were quite flat and the last bit was back up the hill so that was slower. I usually run on my own but run with...

I like your Plan A. Take it easy in the lead up to the half to save your legs and energy. Take it easy on the half, enjoy it and keep some energy back for the last few miles. I love the feeling of giving it my all to the finish line!

I don't about your pain Rachael but you should get it checked out or at least rest it for a bit and see if it improves. I ran 20 miles today and am exhausted. I chose a downhill start of 4 miles, followed by 12 miles flat then 4 miles back up the hill. I think I'll make sure my next 20 mile...

I love my Garmin Forerunner 10 and only £99. I may have posted this here before, but for those of you who missed it - if you buy it from Tesco you can use your Clubcard vouchers towards it and save some more pounds :)

Yep. My husband and I are going for four nights - Friday to Tuesday. We're flying Birmingham to CDG and staying south of the city near the orbital road in a cheap hotel (Travelodge style!). I spent a day playing on the internet and working out logistics, so I hope it all goes to plan. We're...

Hey Phoenyx - I'm doing Paris too. I can't wait!! I ran 17 miles on Saturday and planning 18 for next Saturday, but not sure how I'm going to manage 26.2!! Is this your first marathon? It is mine.

nope

I went out at 8.30am with my trail shoes on and stayed on the road as much as possible as there was hardly any traffic. It was ok, even when it started snowing and I managed 7.6 miles. I then went to my new gym and did about 30 mins on the tread and 30 mins on the cross trainer, then had a...

I have induction at the council gym tomorrow night so will be able to catch up on the running I have missed this weekend due to the snow. I have seen runners out there but I don't fancy it and I've heard too many injury stories to think it's a good idea. I'm not sure if I will be able to do 5...

I know where I'm going wrong with the eating, but I thought I would get away with it because of all the running, but obviously not! I was little miss perfect Slimming World for 13 months - just got to get my head back in it.

I ran 9.5 miles in the snow last night but it's snowed heavily today and still snowing now, so not sure if/how I will do my 17 mile run tomorrow that my training schedule has planned for me. I have a charity fundraiser on Sunday that I have to prepare for tomorrow, (as well as loads of marking...

Exactly! Just like you download music.

Can't keep up with all these posts! Lucylu and Onionbreath (love the name!) - would be happy to go for a run with you both some time in Shrewsbury :) Donna - sounds like you're doing the right thing. You have plenty of time to build your running base. If I were you I would keep my weekday...

Hey Lucylu I live in Wellington and work in Shrewsbury. Where are you?

I've maintained at my target weight since May but during December I gained 4lb in 4 weeks. I've dropped a pound of this already. I ate out a lot more in December and had some alcohol, as well as xmas treats. Last xmas I was really strict and did well, but this xmas I relaxed a bit with the...

My marathon training is bang on plan in prep for Paris on 7th April . . . but now I have a dilemma and am seeking advice. I live near and work in Shrewsbury and it was announced on Thursday that the first ever Shrewsbury marathon will be held on 23rd June this year. That is 11 weeks after...

I'm following a Hal Higdon but mixing it up with other stuff, depending on what my running club are up to. I ran 15 miles today - knackered now!

Make sure you're warming up before running, but if you're starting with walk/run then I assume you are. Here is some advice that I copied from a Runner's World article: (read the full article here) An ounce of prevention… To guard against shinsplints, stretch and strengthen the tendons and...

I bought the Garmin Forerunner 10. It's new and it's the cheapest, most basic and smallest watch that Garmin does - only £99. I've had it since the end of October and it does everything I need it to do and it's easy to use. I can't recommend it highly enough. Here's a link to more info...

My official time was 53:21 - I'll take that ;) I've signed up for a 21k cross country in Feb - should be interesting!

I ran my first proper race today (Race for Life doesn't count!) - the Telford 10k. I thought I could do it in less than an hour and was aiming for a negative split with 10 min miles for the first half and 9 min miles (or less!) for the second half. I did it in under 53 mins with a negative...

Red cross. My mom in law thinks we should go french theme so working on that now. I'm going to ask my butcher for a good deal/donation for meat and my farm shop for veg. That should keep costs down and be good pr for their businesses....

Very proud of myself for sticking to my training schedule during a busy time at work, cold weather and social commitments. I've entered a 10km race on 16/12, a 5km race on 27/12 and the half marathon in March. I've also come up with some cool fundraising ideas that should have me hit my target...

Go to a sport store and try them on! I've bought all mine at Sports Direct - cheap and cheerful!

Glad to hear you're mended Gina. My first marathon and every long run is a new furthest distance for me. I think I will do the half marathon at end of March and run it slow as it will be good experience for race day organisation.

My training plan has me doing a12 mile run two weeks before my marathon. There is a local half marathon that weekend. Should I enter or should I go for a slow run on my own? Advice welcome....

The WR Marathon Book is good - it covers everything and there is plenty of female specific advice. Nice recipes too - tried one Saturday night (caramelised onions and nutty cous cous) and even OH loved it and he usually moans about cous cous!! There are training plans but the same ones as on...

Hi Ladies :) I've not posted on minimins for ages because I've moved my focus from "dieting/maintaining" to training for the Paris Marathon, which is also 7 April. I am new to running and have been building up my distance since completing C25K in February. I started following a 22 week...

You're right about BMI - it's just a guide, but I thought it wise to grill you on your stats - it would play on my mind if I didn't! I love how you describe your small frame - most people say "I'm not overweight, just big boned", but you're the opposite. Welcome aboard and I'm sure the stone...

I'm sure you'll be fine Teri. I've done Extra Easy for the past 12 months and had consistent losses (then maintained) the whole time. I now eat a lot less food and much smaller portions because I feel full and satiated (love that word!). My husband also eats a lot less (not that he was...

Paul McKenna's "I can make you thin" has an excellent section about recognising when you feel full and he teaches readers to use a hunger scale. I recommend it.

Following my 2.5lb gain last week which I put down to eating a rucksack full of flapjacks and protein bars during my 26 mile walk the weekend before, 3.5lb off tonight. Who says you can't have big losses when you're close to target?! That's put me 2lb under my target and the lightest I've ever...

Pheeuuuw. I was worried too...

Lou.... You need to look after yourself and get better. Food will be an important part of your recovery. Treat it as medicine and fuel to beat your virus. you have had a lot of stress these past months and have been eating very little. Time to look after yourself and recover. Eat well and enjoy.

I know it's each to their own when it comes to finding a target weight, but India - you have a very healthy BMI and I don't understand why you want to lose a stone to take you to being borderline under-weight . . . You say "What is wrong with me!!" but perhaps there is nothing wrong. You are...

So I guess I shouldn't beat myself up over saving my apple from lunch and eating it on my way home because I was having a late tea?! In the words of my favourite Aussie movie, which I think I have quoted to Lou before: You're terrible Muriel!

Name Start date End date Days completed: Sparty 17th September 8th October /21 Lou 17th September 8th October /21 Sally 19th September 10th October /21 I need to join this too. I've been a little...

This is the one I was thinking about Emma . . . hope it helps!

I searched back through the thread to find this post of Smiley's. It was in response to Lou's daily weighing dilemma, but sort of answers your question. It's as good as I could come up with now that him and Rod have both gone AWOL! I'll keep looking though, as I think there is a more relevant...

Time is precious and we need to use it wisely. I would choose the gym too! I have a deal with my husband too. We agree not to have children and do whatever we want!!!!

I don't understand why people pay to go to Slimming World but don't stay to group - that's the bit you're paying for. I always stay to group, even now I'm at target. If you don't like the group or consultant then find another one. If the time doesn't suit then find a group with a time that...

I've been both busy and lurking. Did my 26 mile walk along Offa's Dyke last Saturday in just over 8 hours then came home and signed up for the Paris Marathon. I ate a lot of carbs in the lead up to the walk and chowed down on flapjacks during the walk, but I had loads of energy and felt...

Follow the rules - especially measuring your Healthy Extras Eat when you're hungry Eat slowly and enjoy the food Stop when you're full Drink plenty of water Study the superfree and free foods, and fill your fridge with the ones you LOVE. Eat these when you're hungry. You will be less likely...

I did the NHS C25K podcasts from Dec-Feb. I still run 2-3 times a week and ran 5k Race for Life in under 30mins in June. Up until last week I still listened to the Week 9 (final podcast) of C25K but the NHS has just made three new podcasts for C25K graduates - C25K+. I've done one so far and...

Thanks Lou! All of us write inspirational posts to each other and so often it's hard to find them again because this is such a popular thread. So here's something I do that I want to share with you all and hope that you will do it too. When you write something that you think "Yeah, that's...

Sue - well done! Everyone says: now for the hard part - maintaining. You won't find this difficult at all. I haven't. You have changed your lifestyle, your mindset and your habits. You love to eat healthy food and know how to make the right choices. You know how to enjoy food and drink -...

I do SW. Started last October and lost over 3 stone. At target now and still go to group every week. have a read of my blog posts as I write about what I got out of it and the other things I've done that helped. I really needed SW to tie it all together for me and now I'm finding maintaining...

Garlic dip is tzatziki - made with yogurt, mint and cucumber. Aoli is spanish garlic mayonnaise and very fattening. Be careful!

I've been blonde before and I fancied a drastic change to go with my new figure. A fair few inches came of the hair too. Short hair never looked good when I was carrying the extra stones. I bet you're itching for a make over when you get to target Rod!

I think that seeing your own weight loss is one of the most difficult things to do. I have just looked at your pics Lou and you look amazing. It's easy to look at other people's before and after pics and see the difference, but not so easy to see the changes in ourselves. I don't know why...

There you go Lou. Hopefully my avatar has changed too.

WI tonight and 1.5lb off which puts me 0.5lb below target. It was our SW group Woman of the Year final and here is a pic of me: I was a contender but I did as well as the Australian Olympians! I'm spending the next week on a canal boat with husband, friends and four dogs. I plan to operate...

Was just checking to see if you were paying attention!

Well done time2go. I read a quote on Facebook today: Someone who is busier than you is running right now We could just as easily insert "walking" in there!! I'm going to make this my mantra for the next few months.

Well done GF - I bet you feel great. Did you buy a dress? Rod loves dresses, so you should tell us all about it!!

How is everyone's walking going? I've walked at least 3 miles every day and done a 4.5 mile walk, two 7 milers and climbed Snowdon (9 miles) since I last posted. Also been out running between 4 and 6 miles a few times and been on three 10+ mile bike rides. I'm knackered!

I have said this before, but I'll say it again. Sometimes weight loss is a bit of a mystery . . . How would you feel if you lost 4lb over two weeks? Good? Here are some of the combinations this could happen in (I won't bore you with fractions!): 0,4 1,3 2,2 3,1 4,0 After two weeks you have...

Congratulations LJ - you looked lovely and so happy. Wishing you a speedy recovery from the flu and a successful continuation of your journey. Lou - you look great too. Enjoy the weekend :) I'm knackered - have been to the gym this morning, cycled 11 miles this afternoon and ran 5 miles off...

I'm behaving. In Co. Durham camping. About to go for long bike ride with dogs. Yesterday went for walks. Of to Robin hoods bay for a few days tomorrow for more walking and cycling. Following Olympics and reading David Copperfield. Life is sweet!

Sounds to me like your body is getting ready for a big loss. Alternatively, all this hanging about with women is playing havoc with your hormones....

Hey Lisa I'm sure Lou or Rod will be on here soon to give you some proper hard hitting tough love, but in the meantime I'll try to help . . . What the hell are you thinking? Tomorrow night is your chance to do your own thing and enjoy yourself. The weekend will be hectic with wedding stuff...

You have 7 stone to lose. That is 98lb. If you were to lose an average of 2lb a week it would take you would lose 104lb in a year. How quick do you want your results to be? Is 12 months quick enough? I have no knowledge of VLCD, but if you want to lose weight steadily (i.e. 2lb a week over...

lmao! :silly:

I do squats at the photocopier at work!

I know everyone's bodies work differently, but for me I just kept doing what I always did and the weight continued to come off. I kept increasing my exercise because I was getting fitter and could do more. I kept following SW rules and my portion sizes probably got smaller and my food...

As an Australian who has lived in the UK for over 14 years, I am so pleased with the way the British are finally embracing the Olympics and different sports. Australians live and breath nearly all sports and the Olympics are a huge priority. Having said that, obesity rates are rising in...

I get measured at my gym every 10 weeks - they do arms, chest, abdominal, waist, hips, thighs. I got measured yesterday (it had been 16 weeks because of my hand) and I've lost another 12.75 inches all over, which is 33 inches since I started at the end of October. My instructor said I have the...

You would be a brilliant SW Consultant and I'm sure they would let you . . . (ever the optimist me!) . . . although I'm not sure how many hi-fi bars you would sell!!

Caught up on posts and can now face the day! I'm going for a run (thanks to Bonnie's inspiring post) and going to cut out snacks for the day (thanks Lou). Later I'm going to work out how many calories I eat on a typical day. I tried calorie counting a few years ago using a website but only...

15 mins down, 45 mins to go. You're doing well girl! Keep at it . . . I buy a nice licorice tea from Holland and Barrett. It's less than 5 calories and quite sweet, so I find it helps with cravings.

It's almost 9pm. Can you just go to bed?

I've posted this before, but thought I'd share it again since people are asking for these pics. I've lost another 4lb since getting to target and the plaster coming off (every little helps!!) . . . Re-assessment at the gym tomorrow and I'm looking forward to seeing the inch and fat loss...

Loving the new signature Rod. I don't remember posing for that, but my memory ain't what it used to be!!

After spending Friday digging and replanting the front garden, I stayed up late to watch the opening ceremony and pack for camping. Up early Saturday morning with 12 yo niece, OH and two dogs to drive to Snowdon and climb the Llanberis path to the top. Half way up it started to rain and then...

Wow! I think it's really noticeable. Well done :)

Step away from the biscuits and read Bonnie and LisaJade's posts from the past 24 hours and then read the advice they have been given. Drink a glass of water, go for a walk, come home and drink another glass of water. Think about the positive changes you have already made. Think about the...

Bonnie - I agree with all the advice given above. Re your query about choosing which foods to eat when calorie counting - You should be able to use SW principles to make good choices with calorie counting. Think superfree and free first as they will fill you up without using up too many...

Well done Emma. What with all this swinging you've started this is your new beginning!

Love the pics and you had great weather :) May have to convince OH to take the van to Ireland . . .

Eat when you're hungry Eat what you really want (but you've gotta train your brain to really want healthy things) Eat mindfully Stop when you're full Drink loads of water

Emma turns evil! I haven't tried them either Sue and I'm sure they're overrated!!

One of my favourite lines from a movie is - "You're terrible Muriel" from Muriel's Wedding and your post made me think "You're terrible Lou" in a really drawn out Aussie accent with a pronounced inflection at the end!!!

I bought two aubergines yesterday . . . I'm thinking aubergine bake for tomorrow night's tea :) Lou - I thought you were going to bin those dodgy scales of yours and only weigh in at Boots?

I had a great day yesterday. When I first met my husband 8 years ago he told me a long list of jobs he wanted to do on his house. The first one was to have a new drive. Over the years we've done quite a few of the jobs (replaced boiler, removed UGLY gas fire, re-carpeted, painted) but...

Wow - Bonnie is much tougher than me. I'm in awe.

Lou Your scales are probably so crap that when you weigh in at Boots you will probably weigh closer to 10 stone and all this worry will have been for nothing!

Hey Lou :) Why don't you set yourself a temporary target - say an even 10st 10lb or a BMI of 24.5 (whatever, although I from memory you're not a BMI fan!!), then plan to maintain this target until your pain is fixed and you know more about your daughter's health issues. Once you're in a better...

Llanberis - I've read this is a good choice for fair-weather walkers. Would you agree Bonnie? I'll take advice from anyone! Do you want to join us? :)

Welcome Lizz :) I find that reading this thread helps to keep me on the straight and narrow. You have already lost 3 stone so you know how to do it, it's just keeping on doing it and getting it right in your head. You will get loads of tips from people here, but here are two from me...

Pub last night and I drank slimline tonic whilst OH downed 4.5 pints. I got up this morning and walked to the gym, walked home, then walked with OH and two dogs for 12 miles in 3.5 hours in the sunshine along the glorious country lanes of Shropshire. I have two very tired dogs and the humans...

Walking Activity 12.26 mi | RunKeeper 12.26 mile in 3hr20min. A little bit tired now but very happy with my time. It was a glorious day and wonderful views. Husband and dogs behaved themselves too! Dogs are now fast asleep and humans won't be far behind!

Sue Sue Sue You have three weeks to lose 4lb. Last week you lost 3lb and this week STS. That is an average of 1.5lb per week. You would have been thrilled with 1.5lb last week and then this week. You are at the same point and just because the scales said STS this morning, your body is...

I'm hoping to walk 3.5mph so 12 mile should take less than 4 hours . . . will let you know later on Saturday :)

I'm starting my training tomorrow for a 26 mile charity walk in September (should have started two months ago but I had a broken hand). I need to walk 3 times a week with two shorter walks (7+ miles) and one longer one (14+ miles). I know this is a bit more than you people, but can I share my...

Last day of term and I fell victim to the cake sharing sorority. Doh! Off to walk the dogs now, then gym in the morning followed by a 12 mile walk. Back on plan now for the holidays and I shall remember to take my TOIL on the last day of term off next year.

Welcome to the Tough Love thread Stupid. We are a friendly and supportive bunch, but if you're going to post here you may wish to consider changing your name, tagline, avatar, start date and diet, and setting a goal date. We don't have many rules here on this thread but I think you have broken...

Cous cous for camping is quick and easy . . .

I posted this when I first joined minimins and have not yet had a reply, so now I shall ask my reliable friends here for suggestions: We have a modern VW van for camping with hub, 2 dogs and bikes. We usually go to France for the summer but this year plan to travel around the UK staying near...

What van have you got? We have a VW Transporter T5 and spend the summer holidays in it with the two dogs and bikes on the back. What do you cook on/in? Stir fry? Spag bol? BBQ steak with salad? We have a Cobb bbq and do roast meat, healthy fry ups, casseroles, omelettes, even moule mariniere...

I take my dog running with me. He's a foxhound and needs loads of exercise. He loves it and it's helped with his training (he came from the Dogs Trust at Christmas - he was only 18 months and we were his 4th home). I get exercise, he gets exercise, he then sleeps for the next few hours -...

I completed the NHS Choices C25K in February. It is wonderful and Laura became my best friend! I still use week 9 to run to 2-3 times a week. I also use Runkeeper app to track my progress which I find very motivating.

I want to thank Lou for her advice a couple of weeks back. I lowered my target last week from 10 stone to 9 stone 8.5lb (my weight last week) because the weight kept coming off. This week I've eaten out a few times and had a few treats along the way (still no alcohol this month though) and I...

Fab work Lisa :) Love it!

Here, here Jezzi. I went out Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, and on all three I was offered a drink. I answered with a simple, "No thanks, I'm not drinking this month," and everyone responded with "Oh, ok". I was expecting peer pressure or at least a funny comment, but everyone was...

The weekend is over and there seems to be a lot of happy, positive and motivated Bassers on here. Well done everyone! Bring on the week ahead :) I have a busy last week of term but have the gym and a run written down in my diary, along with a meal out (menu sorted), birthday party (taking a...

Bidding for this on ebay - does that count as Day 1? :D

Someone posted about this yesterday, but I've been too busy to write about it and wanted to share: I have gone from having the same BMI as the average 30-44 year old female from Jamaica to the same BMI as the average 30-44 year old female from Chadd. How is that for perspective?! BBC News -...

Bonnie is right about the water thing. Simple to remember: 1 litre of water weighs 1kg

I had a busy day at work yesterday and then went straight from work to camping and the pub with hub and four friends. I fitted in a 30 minute walk before it rained and at the pub alternated between slimline tonic and tap water, whilst everyone else consumed gallons of beer and wine. They all...

Prunes and plenty of water..

Also known as a grill up! Hi everyone:)

Also known as a grill up! Hi everyone:)

Liking that, but will leave it to someone more creative than me . . .

Lisajade has been offline for over 45 minutes and is hopefully tidying that flat of hers. Go Lisajade! I'm picturing Doris Day in Calamity Jane tidying her cabin and singing "A woman's touch" . . . ah my favourite movie! I, in the meantime, have been sitting on my sofa having a go at creating...

Well done Lou! Knew you would do it in style :)

Weighed in tonight and 3lb off making me 5.5lb under target, so I'm going to revise my target down to somewhere around where I'm at now . . . I've been running, walking and going to the gym loads. School holidays start next Friday and I'm going to be creating my own little personal boot camp...

:479: Ok, so it was me who PM'd Rod with the suggestion that we have a "group" for Tough Love - Apply Within so that there could be some different threads. I would like it noted that the "Cat" thread was a tongue in cheek suggestion!! Although after reading today's posts perhaps one is...

I've been to see/hear Sir Ranulph Fiennes speak tonight. Now there's an inspirational man; his fitness and motivation are astounding.

Hi there Just had a quick read through of your thread and it was really interesting. I have a few questions for you that may or may not help. Have you considered doing Extra Easy? I started with this and had consistent losses, so never tried red or green days. You may get the best of both...

OMG You have let the whole team down! You are our inspiration, the hardest of task masters and here you are enjoying yourself with your husband on your anniversary. Wait till Rod returns. He would never allow it. Lol - have a great night and enjoy yourself. Life is to be lived and you are...

Happy to help :) I can't take full credit for those tips - they're a combination of Slimming World and Paul McKenna advice. Hope you enjoyed your bike ride.

Take yourself for a walk. The fresh air may help to clear your head :) If you can't go for a walk then make a list of the following: 1. Three positive things that you have done today 2. Something you are looking forward to tomorrow 3. All the reasons you want to lose weight Then tell me...

I sold two 34G sports bras (one Shockabsorber and one Freya) on ebay not so long ago. I had bought them from Bravissimo six months earlier and gone down to a 32F from all the exercise I was doing. I recommend you have them properly measured/fitted as I bought a different style Shockabsorber...

Healthy Extra A - I buy the mini portions for my lunch to help with portion control and it's easy to grab in the morning. Plenty of fruit too . . . and a water bottle.

http://www.minimins.com/slimming-world-recipes/135012-super-speed-soup.html Try it but have two big saucepans ready - it makes loads. Even my husband loves it. Put a bit of pasta in and it's like minestrone - makes a filling meal for whole family. If you can't heat it up at work then take it...

If you want some support from straight talking people then check out Rod the Bass's "Tough Love - Apply Within" thread. They will help you to find your motivation but be ready for some tough questions and home truths. It might not be your style, but people on that thread have re-discovered...

I take my lunch to work which is usually a box of salad. To keep it interesting and easy to prepare I include pickled: onions, gherkins, chillis, cabbage, beetroot; along with tomato, celery, carrot, leaves, cucumber (whatever I have fresh in) and then to treat myself: ham wrapped around cottage...

I make my own salad boxes to take to work every morning. They are quick, easy and yummy. I've blogged about it (see link below) but I'll go copy it now for you . . . will be back shortly!

And a good sports bra!

That's in my blog too! I had never run in my life but following the nhs c25k from dec-feb and I'm now running 3 times a week and planning a marathon next year. It costs nothing to run but do invest in a good pair of trainers (no more than £40).

Well done Jezzi. Last week in my sw group I was amazed by the excuses people gave for their poor results: my daughter had a baby was one, my mother is ill was another and "i'd like to join you on your alcohol free July challenge but it's my birthday this month". Thank you Jezzi for showing us...

Hi bigfunn Have a read of my blog - you may pick up some tips that suit you. Click on the link in my signature. Good luck and stick with it.

The journal is brilliant. I find that listening to him at night is so relaxing that I fall asleep. I used to set my alarm 30 mins earlier in the morning and listen to it before I get up and then fill in the journal whilst having breakfast. I would also listen at bed time for a good night's...

Good luck Marie :)

Welcome Kirstie. I do SW and it has worked for me, so I can only assume that you aren't following the plan 100%. I follow Extra Easy and I really do find it easy. I have also listened to Paul McKenna's "I can make you thin" and follow his four golden rules: 1. When You Are Hungry, Eat 2...

3.5 mile run complete in 35 mins. Gym at 9 am and then dog walk at 11 am. Back on plan after yesterdays junky lunch and will revise my target down at this weeks weigh in. Whatever I weigh in at will be my new target which will give me a better comfort zone at the lower end. Thanks for talking...

Snap! We'd better stop this chit chat or we'll be in trouble!!

I read the FAQ and was going to paste it here but thought I'd get in trouble for that! The actual question is posed: Is a third of a plate of Superfree Food mandatory on the Extra Easy plan? and the answer is no but it is encouraged . . . So you are right Claire, but I don't think their...

Fair enough - I'm not one for the small print! Although off to read it now :)

Hey Emma, that's about how I worked mine out. At first I was aiming for 11 stone because that was a healthy BMI, then I realised I could easily lose more so set my target for 10.5 stone. I hit that and kept losing, so lowered it to 10 stone. Now I'm there (although a little under) I feel...

With SW once you've reached a target that is within the healthy BMI range you are allowed to "fine tune" your target, i.e. change it by less than 7lb. I am considering this and will most probably revise it down by 3 or 4 lb. I am just seeing where it goes and what it does for a few weeks. I am...

I've eaten some junk today (end of year celebration with my students - I set a good example by taking a SW dip, carrots and celery, but the students brought pizza, cake and all sorts of junk) . . . but here's my justification/excuse: I'm a couple of pounds under target and have been weighing in...

The fruit counts as it is part of the meal. The only scenario it won't count is when you eat the fish, chips and mushy peas first and it fills you up, and then you eat the fruit on top just because you want your 1/3 super free. Only eat when you are hungry and stop when you start to feel...

Pleased to hear your dog is doing ok :)

Well done. You know how to do it now, so just keep going :)

I am a camp cooking queen but I have nothing to add to the food suggestions as everyone has given such good advice. For a really tasty fix buy a pouch of Merchant Gourmet Puy Lentils. You can eat them hot or cold and are lovely. You could add them to a stew or add bacon. I see you have...

Planning, sticking to the plan, honesty, plenty of superfree, water, exercise and choosing foods that you enjoy. Don't over-complicate things or over-think it. Just do it. And it's for life, not just for Christmas. Healthy eating isn't a short term fad to get to a short term goal. This is...

Your last post is sounding better. Treat this week like it is your first week. Get rid of the salami and all the other junk food in your fridge and cupboards, and stock up on superfree. Plan your week - plan your meals, your snacks, your exercise and your life. You can do this and you will...

Is there a local running club to join? That will keep you motivated, running regularly and meeting new people.

Sorry to hear about your dog. I have two that I'm very attached to and had one as a kid too, so I know how you feel. I hope you get to see him on Thursday, but in the meantime you need to separate your sadness and worry with your eating habits. Stay strong, stay hopeful and stay on plan...

Good advice all. Yesterday I declared July to be an alcohol free month for me. I did it for Lent and have realised how I don't need it. We are slaves to marketing and a society that revolves around alcohol consumption. Im taking a stand and my body will thank me for it.

At over 13 stone my size 18s were tight :( At 12 stone I was in size 16 At 11 stone I was in size 14 At 10 stone I'm between size 10 and 12 I've also done a lot of gym work that focused on losing weight from my chest and bum. :character00115: I've gone from a 34G (struggling to find bras that...

Well done Jezzi. We all knew you could do it! :winner:

ColJack: Grae is right - allow 90 mins each way but you'll get faster as you get fitter and used to the route. Make sure you wear a helmet and hi vis gear. Is car pooling an option if you can't take public transport? You may be able to ride one way and get a lift/train home and then...

I weighed in tonight with jeans, shoes and metal bracelet. It worked, 1.5lb gain and back in target. Talked about it with consultant and she said that if I dropped below target zone again I could change target down by a few pounds (fine tuning) so that I am at an easier to maintain target. As...

I've done Race for Life tonight instead of going to group, but I think I'll go to a different group tomorrow night. I need to put on 1/2 lb or I have to start paying again. Today I ate macadamia and cashew nuts, a milky way, a samosa and a burger, as well as my regular healthy SW food. I'm...

Brilliant discussion today everyone :) I've just got back from Race for Life and completed 5km in less than 28mins. I was sprinting so hard at the end that I didn't notice the clock above the finish line!! 7 months ago I couldn't run 50 metres, now I'm considering a marathon :bolt:

Rain - mac/kagoul/parka - whatever you want to call it - wear one! A hat or hood helps too. Boots or comfy wellies. And you're off! Kids playing up - drag 'em out there with you . . . they'll soon learn and it will tire them out! Tired? You'll be even more tired by the end of your walk but...

Hey Pommette I think you should take kneehigh85's lead and change your signature from: SLOW AND STEADY - 1 lb a week (if I'm lucky) to SLOW AND STEADY - 1 lb a week (if I make really good choices) How is that for tough love?!! We don't do "luck" here, we do harsh reality!!! PS Well done...

When I started at Gymophobics at the end October 2011 my body fat was 41.6%. The normal range is 30-35%. I have had it measured a couple of times since and it always comes down, but today I had it measured again - 31.5%!! I'm over the moon!! :happy036:

Well done AliGal :) You have certainly thought every little bit of your diet through and sound very sensible. Your motivation and commitment is quite inspirational - I love your no nonsense, get on with it attitude! Conlou1 - welcome to the thread and I hope you've read AliGal's post to see...

Great stuff! Yep, still following SW and stay for group every week. Have increased my HE and relaxed a bit with the syns but still losing weight. In my head I think I've pigged out sometimes and yesterday I was really full, but when I think about what I've actually eaten it isn't that much...

I'll follow your progress. I listened to it a few times last week as I hadn't for a while and remembered to after reading/posting here. I'm at target and meant to be maintaining but lost another 1.5lb last week so not sure if I should still be listening - lol!! I figure my body will know when...

Just got back from a run, spoke to my sister in Australia, put chicken in the slow cooker for tea tonight, ate breakfast and now contemplating what to do next . . . need to have a shower, walk the dogs, go to the pet shop for dog and chicken food, get some work done, and go to in-laws for lunch.

You have made a good start by making some sensible changes to your diet, but if you want to up the weight loss there is plenty more little things you could be doing. Take a look around on this forum. I have lost weight with Slimming World and there is lots of good advice on this section of the...

Use the fat content, not saturated fat. Fat is fat unfortunately!

When I was moving down the clothes sizes (a size every two months) I bought second hand from ebay so cost was low and I was happy to pass them on. Not only was I able to reward myself with "new" clothes but it was also an NSV - giving clothes away to people who I used to be bigger than. I'm...

ColJack - I would want a Garmin watch to track my running - I think I will reward myself with one of those when I'm still maintaining at my next birthday. Thanks for the idea!! I don't really do the girly stuff either!!

ColJack - do you have hobbies or sports that you like to spend money on? If it were my OH he would be rewarding himself with kitesurfing gear, golf clubs, power tools, bling for his van, weekends away . . . I've just read this to him and he laughed - I was right!

I recommend the 12 speed soup. Easy, cheap and makes loads. Need two big saucepans and freeze some. You will find the recipe on here by searching. Food diaries? Body magic? measuring syns and healthy extras? Good luck.

There's a fridge magnet on ebay that I like the look of - you move a magnet along a number line to count syns and HE for the day (search Slimming World). They look really cool and are only a few quid. I would buy one because I love that sort of stuff but don't think I need it or would use it...

I was looking for the same thing and although there are threads about maintaining there is nothing very current that I could find. I thought of starting a thread in the Slimming World Teams section and calling it TEAM MAINTAIN. What do people think? Oops - I just remembered that I found this...

Baked beans are not superfree! If I have baked beans for a meal I also add tomato and mushrooms, or have lots of fruit. The 1/3 superfree is the key to success with EE and you have to do it. I find it most difficult at breakfast, so usually have a banana unless I have more interesting fruit...

I found my answer!! Wear more clothes to weigh in :) Thanks so much! Next week I'll leave my shoes on and wear jeans. I can't believe I didn't think of that myself!! I have a whole 6lb to play with . . .

Hello! I've finally found the thread I need. I set my target at 10.5 stone way back when and reached it in February, maintained for a few weeks then started dropping weight again, so revised it down to 10 stone. Was 0.5 lb from goal when I broke my hand on 3rd May and had a plaster cast put...

Hi Slimming Lizard. I can't imagine how that would feel, but don't let him get you down. You are losing weight and you are doing it for you - for your health and happiness. Stay focused on that and think about all the good things that are about to happen to you. I have just lost 3 stone...

Go to Spain but eat loads of salad with your meals, avoid fried foods and go light on the alcohol :)

Congratulations! Don't ever forget how good that felt :) Make these good habits regular habits . . .

Here you go - my before and after shots: Before photo: January 2010 weighing about 13 stone 3lb; Started SW October 2011 weighing 12 stone 13lb; After photo: May 2012 weighing 10 stone; Target member of the year: 2015!!! PS I currently have my dog on a diet too. She has gone from 13.1kg in...

The link is in my signature below - the pink one below my SW awards. Click on it and you'll be there - just like Dorothy!! I like your chocolate sand vision and I hope you can rekindle your exercise fire!! It's all there - you just need to remember how much you enjoyed it and why it was so...

I have written a few blog entries about my journey which you may find helpful, but in a nutshell: I have found the Paul McKenna "I can make you thin" to be useful in getting my head right but I could never have done it without SW. My new big thing is running which I had NEVER done before. As...

I haven't felt like you do at the moment, but we have both been at target for a similar time and I thought it might help to share my story and positivity in order to reverse your current trend . . . I'm at target and have been there just a few weeks. I did this with Slimming World, running and...

I'm having a good week . . . I've dropped 2lb below my target so got to put some weight back on before tomorrow! I've been doing SW for over 8 months so my food and routine are completely ingrained and it's weird to eat more. I've had a few meals out and a few extra drinks which should help...

Losing weight with tough love and good old fashioned manners. Good for the body, mind and soul!

Reading that reminded me that I have very ripe peaches in the fruit bowl that need eating up. I'm enjoying one now :) I have recently started having a fruit/veg box delivered weekly to my house by the local farm shop. Now I have a constant supply of good free food that must be eaten before...

You have been eating some lovely meals - I feel very inspired now!

Hi Scarlett I read your post on Rod the Bass's thread and then read this post. Well done on joining here and making a start. Please follow my links below - I only joined this site a couple of weeks ago but I've been doing Slimming World since October and have lost 3 stone and got to target...

I was just discussing this with a colleague on Wednesday. I don't have a reaction to MSG but it is very well documented. I come from Australia and it is very common for Chinese restaurants to advertise as MSG-free. If you really like Chinese then ask your local if they can recommend dishes...

You look fab and I bet you feel loads better. Good luck with the rest of your journey :) PS Nice name!

I have always avoided sweeteners but never been one for fizzy drinks. Since joining SW I have become converted to mullerlights and diet tonic with my gin. It does concern me that I now eat a lot more sweetener and try to limit my mullerlight intake. I was having a mullerlight with every meal...

Just get yourself back on plan, drink plenty of water, lots of super free and work the body magic. Learn from this and move on - it's not end of the world. If you really want to achieve your goals then you will make this work. Good luck :)

Why not try HiFi bars or similar when you're working nights. They are yummmmy and can be used as HXB or syns. Well done by the way on your weight loss, asking the right questions and taking the advice. Good luck on your holiday - enjoy the ale and pasties, but remember all in moderation!!!

I started SW in October and have since lost 3 stone. I never imagined losing that much weight when I started - I'd have been over the moon at 2 stone or wearing size 14, but I have found it really easy and now wear size 10-12. I've also found a new love for running and gymophobics (a ladies...

Me too! Fan oven on 190C and after 25 mins still raw. Cut the breasts in half and put back in for another 30+ mins and it was nicely cooked.

Have just been reading a thread I follow about drinking water, so whilst it's fresh in my mind: . . . don't forget to drink plenty of water . . .

Have just been reading a thread I follow about drinking water, so whilst it's fresh in my mind: . . . don't forget to drink plenty of water . . .

Have just been reading a thread I follow about drinking water, so whilst it's fresh in my mind: . . . don't forget to drink plenty of water . . .

Well done on a great weight loss in your first week. I have been at my 10 stone target for a few weeks but have had a plaster cast on my hand/arm for past six weeks. It was finally removed yesterday and last night was weigh in - I lost 2lb which puts me 2lb under target and I got my 3 stone...

My hand came out of plaster this morning and I weighed in tonight . . . 2lb off and my 3 stone award. Very pleased but must now stop losing weight. The meal at the Indian afterwards should be a start!

Well done on a great week. . . My plaster came off this morning which is a huge relief, but it's still bruised and swollen and will take a while to get the movement back. No excuses for me now though - I can sweat as much as I like!! I weighed in at SW tonight and had lost 2lb and got my...

Cooked this last night and it was so good (and easy) that I made it again tonight with Thin Lizzie sausages in lieu of chicken. Loveerrrrrrrly!

We've discussed this many times in group - cous cous cake; smash dumplings/scones (we won that one and kept them syn free!!); and one other I can't remember but you use it to make tortilla style crisps . . . when I think of it I'll post it!

I pointed this out to my SW pals in group this week in a similarly sarcastic tone. It didn't go down so well . . . They'll love me when they get to know me!!

I'll have a go: Food abuse is changing the main use of the food . . . using your example: cous cous free and snack away, but use it as an ingredient in a cake (substitute for flour) and it has to be counted as a syn. So potatoes as potatoes - great; but turned into crisps not. Eat an orange -...

I've just started reading this and LOVE it. This is my style. You are right about positive names and also about setting goal dates. I can't believe how many people write "when it happens" or "as long as it takes" or similar. If people have a lot of weight to lose they should set interim...

Hi hail-bop I had a BMI similar to yours when I started SW last October. I tried to lose weight on my own but never managed it. I joined SW and that gave me the motivation to change things in my life. Please have a read of my blog as I've explained all the little changes I have made to get...

You guys really do have this lemon thing sorted!!

I haven't read the whole thread through but do have a question . . . I grew up in Australia and had a lemon tree in the yard. I ate lemons like oranges and made large glasses of juice for breakfast, but my teeth would be very sensitive afterwards from the acid. Has anyone experienced this...

I lost 2st 13lb over eight months and I had at least one STS or small gain (0.5-1 lb) once a month. You can see this on my graph (not 3lb gain at end was due to plaster on arm! I'm now at target and still have the plaster on :( ) Instead of thinking you lost 5lb in 2 weeks and then nothing...

Only the fat free natural. All of the flavoured ones are still fat free but they replaced sweetener with sugar.

http://www.minimins.com/blogs/slimmersally/11596-my-superfree-ideas.html Have a read of my blog for some ideas . . .

Yep - most fruit and veg. Not baked beans though - peas/legumes/lentils/potatoes etc are free but not superfree. Also not dried or cooked fruit - fruit must be in its natural state. Do u have the SW books? Superfree are listed at start in orange . . if not I'll talk u through it some more.

You have lost nearly 4 stone without going to group - Well done! Let today be a lesson, draw a line and move on. You are on an amazing journey and you just went over a speed hump. They are everywhere and we need to learn how to drive over them safely because they can't always be avoided...

I was about to say that, but just checking SingMe is doing EE . . . I have no clue about red or green!

Are you doing red, green or extra easy? Once I know this I'll send a proper reply . . . In the meantime: Syns are meant to be used to keep u happy and on plan. Use them and enjoy them :)

:clap: Well done! My minimum to raise is £50, but I'm hoping for more. Here is my new idea: ask my SW buddies to donate clothes they have shrunk out of and then sell these at a car boot/market whilst also advertising our SW group. Also have a donation box for my challenge. I would make a...

Why of course!

mrstaylor: It's my first time but found the instructions on here . . . I washed, dried and pricked them, wrapped in foil, put in slow cooker on high for 4 hours or you could put them on low for 8+ hours if you were out at work. No liquid in the slow cooker is a new discovery for me - did...

Smothered chicken, slow cooker jacket potatoes and cheesy cauli/broccoli.

I have signed up to do a 26 mile walk along Offa's Dyke in September to raise money for the Red Cross. I will be asking friends and family to sponsor me but I think I could raise more and make it fun if I hosted some sort of event. My ideas so far: :) run a quiz night (find a free venue to...

My right hand is in plaster so I have recently bought frozen chopped onions, mushrooms and mixed peppers that are sitting unopened in the freezer. I also have passata and paprika in the cupboard. Guess who's popping down to Tesco Express tomorrow to buy chicken breasts?!

WW tortilla with Old El Paso refried beans, chillis, Kerry LowLow cheese, chopped tomato and low fat natural yogurt . . . a favourite and a treat :)

Wore size 10 jeans that were too tight a month ago when I bought them off ebay. This time last year I would have struggled to squeeze into a size 18 :) I don't remember ever being a size 10!