Already walking 3 times a week, at least one mile on the treadmill at the YMCA gym. I've been off-and-on athletically inclined over the last 20 years, but to look at my body, one must assume that I've been off far more than on! A buddy asked me to join her, and it's really made a difference for me. It has really encouraged me to be faithful. It's good for my body, soul and mind to get back into the exercise-swing-of-things!

Hi! I love TCW! Keep up the good work!

I have not excercised in years I want to lose weight after two children and a major sweet tooth my body is totally out of shape. My problem is not being disciplined enough my mind wants to get up and do it while my body screams its to tired but after reading your blog walking 20 min a day is a great way to start I have a tread mill in my basemet so I'm going to start with that. thanks for the encouragement

Hi,
It's so funny about God's time. I've succeeded in losing 40lbs over the past year with Weight Watchers and have been nudging myself to get out of bed in the morning and walk, but just keep rolling over and trying to ignore the feeling! Now today I read the Leslie Sansone article and she says God will help me!! I know He helped me in this past years journey and I know he led me to read your website today!! I've never read it before. See how you're all being used! Thank you. I bought an exercise outfit at lunch today, thinking tomorrow might be the day I go out. After reading your article, I think tonight!! 20 minutes I can do. Thank you for the challenge and for doing God's work in a very real way. God Bless you.

Regards,

Maureen

Hello,
God's timing is amazing. I recently lost 40lbs over the past 10 months with Weight Watchers and having been trying to start an exercise program. Have been waking up early every morning and then rolling over instead of getting up to walk. I've been trying, but haven't asked God for help. He was with me every step of the way for the weight loss journey! Today I bought myself an exercise outfit, thinking tomorrow might be the day!! :) Then I find your article and read about the walking challenge! Now, maybe tonight might be the night! God is there again nudging me and giving me encouragement thru you! Thank you so much for allowing yourself to be used to help others. It's all God's work! Thank you!
Maureen

I accidentally clicked on this story and felt like you were telling mine exactly - unbeleivable! I am struggling with finding the time and the energy to exercise, mainly having both at the same time! So I start for a few days and then life gets in the way. I work part time have three teenagers and one preschooler, a house and husband, and moderate depresssion, a sweet tooth plus have let these holidays make me the biggest I have ever been by about 6 kilos, even though I was about 5kg bigger than I should be before that - unfit and low energy. I want to be fitter, feel better and be able to enjoy shopping for clothes again. I haven't felt like Ive looked good for a long time. Am considering joining your idea - but am discouraged because I know or feel I won't keep it up.

I love TCW magazine, the articles just come at the right moment. I've been trying to kick start an exercise program in my life, due health concerns with my heart and cholesterol. I was recently diagnosed with a condition in which my heart rate elevates quickly, but when the activity has been diminished the heart rate remains high for several minutes. According to the doctor, irregular. So, exercise and diet have been on the agenda, but I just keep putting it off. I am excited after reading Leslie Sansone's article. I have to go out and get her DVD.
I think God for your magazine, because it's always there when I need a kick in the rear or to get a jump start in some area of my life.
Thanks.

I'm joining up, too. I have no excuse--not with my wily Lab, Boomer, who craves the exercise. This TCW editor has gotten too fluffy after a year of stress (an extended family member with a life-threatening disease) and wedding planning (the wedding's over; the weight's still on). It doesn't help that I too take medication that "packs on pounds," and have a raging sweet tooth! So--I'm excited that our team at TCW--and our readers--are getting excited about making some changes. I'll be eager to read the postings, and maybe will send in a few of my own! Blessings!

I use my time on the treadmill to pray also, or listen to worship. It helps because it is scheduled time for prayer and excercize, and makes the walking speed by.

*sigh* OK, I'll do it! I've been needing and wanting to workout, but have found an excuse to put it off over the past few (or more) years. Now I'll join you ladies as a virtual exercise partner and see how I fare. Of course, being honest with others goes without saying. It's only "me" that I ever "fool."

So, let's go! I'm ready! My husband and I are going on a cruise on May 29th and I would LOVE to be in better shape for it!

Yah! I'm on my way to the gym now ;) Going to hang out with the elliptical for a while. It's kind of like walking, but easier on the joints!

I just got back into the exercise routine myself-I walk about 30 minutes 4-5 times per week in addition to some cardio, weight-lifting, and basketball. Though I am definitely NOT a health freak, I'm finishing my 2nd week and am already feeling better about myself. The exercise motivates me to make better food choices and since I could stand to lose some weight, that motivates me as well. I spend much of this time praying and reflecting on myself and have found that not only am I feeling better physically but my spiritual life is definitely going deeper. Thanks for the encouragement and venue to be able to connect with other fitness friends!

Is biking instead of walking okay? I ride my exercise bike most mornings before work. I've been too sick the last two weeks to exercise, but I'm anxious to start again. Once the nice weather is here I'll start walking on my lunch hour.

I decided that this year was going to be one of transformation - I go to fitness classes 4 x a week for one hour and walk once or twice a week for about 1 hour. It definately helps my state of mind stay positive. I feel so good about myself and making my body strong!!

The blog came when I wasn't expecting God's truth to hit me like a scappel dissecting that thing that needed correction.

I'm thin. Some call me too thin. But I'm not fit. Lately we adopted a bouncy puppy from the shelter, a 60 lb 8 month weimeraner...and she's been having me walk every day now...good for me and good for her.

It doesn't matter what size you are- thin, too heavy, or even just right. Exercise is so important to keep things in perspective.To convene with God's natural world if you are so lucky, and I am to live in S. Texas where I can commune with nature 12 months of the year.

I started Leslie's walking program last month. Beginning with 1 - 20 minute mile and have worked up to 4 miles in 1 hour. I have lost 10 lbs only walking, not "dieting." I turned 40 on March 9 and now I am 40 & Fabulous, not 40 & fat.

Thank you Leslie, I needed that. I live in FL where the allergies are bad right now. That has been my excuse. When to walk when my eyes won't itch to the point I want to take them out to scratch. But I just sit and am unfit. There is always an excuse though. Soon it will be too hot to walk. But it is so lovely here I do want to go outside. I can praise the LORD so easy for His wonderful creation as I am up close to nature.

I'm glad I checked in today with my TCW friends... I started an exercise program (at home) on my own about 4 months ago. I'm doing about 20 minutes a day on a cross country skiing sort of device... does that count? I'm not sure how many lbs. I've lost, but I've gone down at least 1 size!!! And I intend to keep going. Now I won't have to make the journey alone. I'll have all of you to keep me enouraged, inspired, and committed. By the way Camerin, I was diagnosed with Clinical Depression when I was 23 -- almost 25 years ago, so I understand a little of what you're feeling at the moment. My episode was short-lived, which I give God complete glory and thanks for. I have never experienced it again, and trust God that I never will. If it helps at all to know that I am praying for you, and that it WILL pass, then take heart and know that you have many people who care about you, whether we know you personally or not, just through your articles, information, and insights. God has a plan in all of this. 25 years later, I can see where He was leading me. He is a faithful God! You are in my prayers.

Hmmmm, do you think this article came at the right time?

While reading this, I finished 1/2 can of Eagle Brand condensed milk (massive sweet tooth). I am quite overweight, and just put on a further 10 pounds due to medications, Bipolar disorder and sitting in the house for 3 months.....during which time I have "thot" a lot about exercising.
There is a note on my bathroom mirror to go for a walk....of course I just ignore it.

Hmmmmm, I wonder, with your help....
Is it possible???

To Rebekah - I know it seems hard to start a program. I've tried various different types of programs, including pilates and just couldn't keep up, but the day I read the article on Leslie Sansone, I checked out her website. She has a great 1 mile walk at home link which is a great starter. I actually am fortunate enough to have a semi-private cubicle at work and have started utilizing this link on my lunch break. It wasn't easy and you will be sore the first few days, but it gets easier every time and I can already tell a difference in my energy levels. As soon as I can afford it, I'm going to order one of her DVD's also.

TCW - thank you for articles such as these! I'll be walking with you!

I am amazed at God's constant love for me and the ways he takes care of my every need. I have injured my ankles an am unable to walk . i have lost 75als. the past 18 months and ltely have desired to exercise. after reading your blog I believe i can do quite adeqeutely with exercising in my room. thank you so much. one step at a time.

In Oct 2007, I had major abdominal surgery. Prior to that, and in an attempt to avoid the surgery, I was on medication for several months that packed on 10-15 pounds (well, ok maybe we can for just blame 10 pounds). Add to that severe anemia and no energy to exercise, and I was a mess!!! Oh, yeah, and my co-workers INSIST on having bite-sized candy bars at the front desk at all times. ARGH!!

About the time I could walk without pain, I bought one of Leslie's DVDs. I've used it a few times, but sort of freaked out when my stomach muscles knotted up with any such activity. (I've since learned that's OK and part of my healing process.) I figure working out with these DVDs is smarter to get my strength built back up and then I can progress to my apartment's fitness room (gotta get rid of MOST of the spare tire before I take it out into public! ha)

Soooo, here's an opportunity to join in with all of you to hit the DVDs again! Thanks for this blog, Camerin! Wouldn't it be a blast if all of us could work out with Leslie in the same room?! ;-) Guess this is the next best thing...

You guys are GREAT!!!
Ive been telling myself get up and walk . I was divorced 2 yrs ago after 26 yrs of marriage and have put on about 15 pds from depression and just not watching what I eat . I have a major sweet tooth.I bought a leslie sansone dvd a yr ago and have yet to play it. My heart is there but not my body.
Im praying this is just what I need to get me up and moving .
Blessings
Carol in Texas

I have always enjoyed running, but have never done it consistently. I've struggled w/depression about half of my life as well. I started going to the gym about a year ago. I began taking some of the group classes. I made myself go 5-7 days a week once or twice a day for that time - then cut back to a realistic schedule (single mom). After the 6 weeks - it's habit and it feels AMAZING. Also, if you push yourself hard for a while you will see results quicker - then you want to keep coming back. Going to group classes you are likely to meet people - and the more people you have to work out with or keep you accountable - the more likely you will keep it up as well. Remember - the first 4 weeks of a workout - don't expect results - your body is solely trying to process your new active lifestyle - you may not see any change at all. Just keep at it and know it's going to happen - you will feel so much better about yourself if you do!

I try to walk 3 miles every day and have been very faithful for the past 5 months. I feel better about myself when I exercize. Not just for trying to lose weight, but it definately helps (along with medicine) my depression. I love listening to my I POD, music helps motivate me. If a day goes by where I can't walk I actually miss it. It's fun for me now because I have made it a part of my day. I joined a gym and alternate, weather permitting walking out doors on nice weather days with using the treadmill at the gym. It is the only thing I try to do just for myself. Good luck everyone.

The timing of this blog and your article on Leslie are amazing! God certainly knows when we need a little nudge to get moving. I too know that I need to lose weight and get more active. Count me in!!

Honestly, I have no desire to join with you, really, but I so want to get rid of these extra pounds and I think I've pretty much run out of excuses NOT too. So count me in. I really enjoyed the interview with Leslie and thoroughly checked out her sight. I love the fact that I don't need any equipment other than running shoes - I just bought a pair - so I'm good to go.

I love to walk,so does my 10 yr. old,so he keeps me going. Most of my life I have been an emotional eater,and 3 yrs. ago it showed at 175 pds. I'm 5'4"but then I had a serious bout with major depression and for the first time in my life,could NOT eat,so I lost 50 lbs. Now that I am getting well,and the holidays of course,I have packed on 15 pds. which I need to lose,and I have also decided its time to get walking again. It is a great way to get private time and do something good for yourself,and most of all to spend time with GOD especially if you have the advantage of walking in the country with no noisy traffic or neighbors.

I've been walking/boosted walking with Leslie for the past 8-9 weeks and absolutely LOVE it!!! I know once you get into a routine with it you'll be hooked.

Perfect timing! I just walked for my first session of 30 minutes! I have lost 20 pounds since the middle of January, and now want to continue on my quest for getting more healthy - more weight to lose, plus planning to walk for exactly the same reasons - weight loss and to help with mild depression.

Been struggling with getting any exercise, was doing quite well two years ago and lost some weight, but have gained it all since i developed some problems with my health. I have however noticed the effects of lack of exercise, with creaking limbs and mild depression. Thanks for the encouragement and invite to exercise, it was a call in due season!

Thank you for the challenging article. I have often found myself sitting, watching TV, instead of doing exercise--even while I know I should be. But, thankfully, it's never too late to start, again. 3x a week for 20 minutes will be a goal.
For 10-15 years, I walked 4-5 days a week for 20-45 minutes. I also did aerobics 2 mornings a week with a group of women in Wheaton while working out/dancing to Christian praise music for 20 minutes, weights for 10 min, then floor exercise. (40 Min. total) What an amazing way to start a day!
Since moving away, turning 59, and being diagnosed with breast cancer within 6 weeks of that move, (8 chemos, 2 operations, 5 years of drugs) I have not returned to walking regularly. While the health issue is not a legitimate excuse (except during chemo) I cannot seem to push myself out the door. With some accountability, I would attempt it.
But, can we wait until after EASTER!?:)
Ecc.4:9-10 states, "Two women are better than one...if one woman falls, the other woman can reach out and help. But the woman who is alone when she falls, is in real trouble."

Too funny! I was just about to go on a walk today as it is on my "To Do" list but I am feeling very unmotivated. I decided to check my e-mail instead and read about the challenge! Guess that means I need to get out and do those 20 minutes! A few months ago, I started an on-line Accountability Club with my friends to encourage them with their goals of healthier living. Can't say I know how they are doing now but maybe this will be a new way for me to get the push that I need! Thanks, Camerin!

I purchased a membership at XSport Fitness last summer. During the summer, it was much easier to go to the workout place since I didn't have to work (teacher)...then, school started and my lifestyle changed... and keeping up with my workout schedule bacame such a chanllenge... Now, my goal is being there JUST twice a week, well, I have to say, it has not been easy... Everyday, something or should I say, some excuses come up... Thanks for encouraging me AGAIN to keep up with my workout!!! Thanks, Camerin.

I'm in! I've needed this incentive! Thank you! God Bless You All in this endeavor to get fit!

Thanks for the help. I too have been and continue to use Leslie's programs, but still struggle. I go between the 1 mile walk to the booster mile. I find working in the morning gives me more energy during the day. I don't beat myself up if I slip, tomorrow is another day.

whew! I loved all the motivation. I started doing pilates twice a week now but have been trying to get walking! What a motivation after reading everyone else's mail... I have been doing a carbo-free diet for three weeks and have lost 5kg to date! I will be turning 60 (God willing) on the 25 March 2008 and I am a size down! With prayer and correct eating habits (cut out the chocs!!) I am encouraged to do the walking.... thanx to TCW

I want to encourage everyone to get up and get moving. I am 48 years old, I too am a former aerobics instructor. I am not over weight and pretty active, however, excersizing wasn't important to me anymore. ( I have an all or none personality which is an asset at times and a liabilty at other times.) I had a very rude awaking in Sept. and had a heart attack that almost killed me. Everyone, including myself, was shocked. I had high cholesterol (family history) and was on meds, I had also smoked for years. Since I was "healthy" and active and not overwieght, I figured I could eat what I wanted and since I was on the medication for high cholesterol, it would take care of itself. WRONG... I can say now that I am thankful for my heart attack, because God used it to wake me up in many areas of my life. We have to be pro-active with our health. Medication is a great avenue of righting what is wrong with our bodies, however, we have to do what we can also. I began working out as soon as my cardiologist gave me the ok. I struggle with time and energy too. Some days I just don't want to. Life gets hectic and I don't keep the schedule I know that I should. I have really been making it more of priority in my life. It feels great to become physically stronger. God wants us to be as health as we can so HE CAN USE US. DON'T WAIT LAIDES.....START TODAY.!! GOD BLESS YOU ALL. BY THE WAY.....I am really tired today and was playing with the thought of not going to the gym. This article changed that!!! Thanks :)

WOW!! I totally agree about God's timing! For 2 years I was very good at getting up and exercising for 30 minutes to an hour 5 to 6 days a week. And I am not a morning person so getting up earlier to exercise was a real challenge for me. But I did it. Then the last 5 months I have fallen off the wagon and put the pounds back on. I just can't seem to get out of bed in the morning to exercise. it started with my quiting smoking 5 months ago today. I got really down about that and because I couldn't have a cigarette it was easier to stay in bed. Then a week after that my sister died very unexpectedly and I have been depressed. Everyday I tell myself "Tomorow no excuse, I'm getting up and exercising" My pants don't zip and clothes I can wear feel very tight. But every day it's the same story, hit the snooze and roll over until it's too late to exercise, as I need to get ready for work and out the door. But after reading this --- I'M GOING TO DO IT!!!! Thank you Lord, your timing is perfect! YOU ARE AN AWESOME GOD!!!

Your article came at a great time. I've started Leslie's "Walk Away the Pounds" 1 & 2 mile walks and this really encourages me to keep going....that and the fact that my pants are not quite so tight now!

Thanks for the encouragement!

Hey! This is great! I'll join in too. I use the office gym on my lunch with some ladies I work with. We walk the treadmill or use the Eliptical almost everyday on our lunch break. It's about 20 minutes a day out of our 30 minute lunch break. But we sit all day so it feels great to get out there and move. Keep up the great work everyone!!

God's perfect timing. I have been teetering back and forth about whether to rejoin the gym. I struggle as a single mom with my schedule and my budget. This has given me the motivation to start with the 3 mile a week walk. This will be great for me and my daughter to do and won't hurt the purse strings either. Thanks!

Be Blessed and be a blessing!!

I had been a sedentary person most of my life but started exercising about 5 years ago when my physical therapist said that was the only solution to some chronic and debilitating back problems I had. It has literally transformed my life--the benefits of regular exercise on every aspect of life are incredible! It sounds so cliche, but truly, if I can do it, ANYONE can.

So, whatever program is do-able for you, do it! Do whatever you have to do to stay motivated. Connecting with other struggling exercisers is a great way. I subscribed for a year to a motivational daily fitness email from Denise Austin that really helped me. She's an incredible encourager--never motivating by guilt.

So start moving--doing anything is better than doing nothing:) And give yourself lots of grace--changing a lifetime habit doesn't happen overnight, but it can happen, and this one is well worth it!

God´s timing...Yes!!!! I am a divorced mother of 9 kids (7 are adopted) Five kids still at home...I leave for work at 6am every morning and gte back at 7m...feel an urgent need to exercise but cannot find the energy to get out of bed an hour earlier...after reading all these accounts of struggles with similar issues I am more encouraged...have been praying and now I need to act...I want to be healthier, both physically and mentally. I live in Brasil where women do care quite a bit about their appearance...it is a good witness to try and get into shape...thank you SISTERS for the encouragement...

I suffer from Migraines and Migraine equivalent episodes. My hubby is disabled and life was getting pretty stressful. I prayed for relief and the Lord answered. Last year I lost 30 lbs with Weight Watchers help, and the encouragement of a couple of spiritual sisters, and started walking with a neighbor. We walk 6 days a week for 30 minutes and we both feel great. As long as I am faithful about walking I don't have headaches or goofey vision episodes.

This is GREAT! I love Leslie! I didn't even know that she was a Christian, that's wonderful!

I'm in! Although I need to lose about 25 pounds, that is not my motivation. I've had some health problems over the past few years that could have become major health issues, but each time God was faithful and healed my body. I want to be healthier as a testimony to His glory and mercy. I want my body to truly be a living sacrifice (in the spiritual as well as the physical). I love God now and work in ministry, but I feel with a healthier body, I will have even more energy to do the work He has called me to do.

ok - you're right - its time.
Yes Lord.

I have enjoyed reading some of your posts. I used to walk frequently; however this winter I gave it up and became a couch potatoe with my husband. I went from a normal 130, (a good weight for me) to 142 lbs, not so nice a weight. About a month and half ago, I started up walking again with either my mother-in-law, or a friend of mine, depending on whose available. At this time I'm only down 1 1/2 - 2 lbs, but my jeans do fit a little better, and I have alot more energy. I started walking 3 miles, and now walk between 3-1/2 to 4-1/2 miles depending on my time schedule. I'm planning to include a morning walk in just as soon as the temperature gets a little warmer. I take my ipod when I go by myself, it helps me keep a good pace, and it is a great time to worship.

Okay, I've been needing motivation, so I'll join you! But here's my version: Irish dance class (1 hour) one day every other week, and for the other days (2 days one week, 3 days the next) I'll practice dance, get outside to clear some of our 20 acres (rocks, sticks, trees, brush, branches, etc.) for pasture, mow the yard using our push mower or play ball with the kids -- all for at least 20 minutes or until I'm sweating (whichever is later!). This will get me out of the house and away from sweets! Surely I can do this 3 days a week! Thank you TCW!

I have a treadmill. I have a great neighborhood for walking. I have 20 pounds I'd like to lose (I'd settle for 15). I mortally hate getting up early. By the time I get home from my job teaching middle school, I am pooped and unmotivated. Y'all help me pray! I need a sisterhood of accountability. Father God, bless us all. Now make me get my shoes on and get moving.

I have been able to walk 30 minutes everyday this week except Wed. I am so thankful for this and feel so much better. Keeps the mind going strong and gives me so much more energy. I work at a church for a youth department and have a lot of sitting to do so another secretary and I meet each day - except Wed. - to walk through the building...up and down the halls of the church, up and down the aisles, through the building...and the staff has found out to stay out of our way. We have a blessed time in fellowship too. We have both been challenged!
Thanks for your challenge.

I was so happy to see your interview with Leslie Sansone. I bought her 5 walking DVD's from QVC on Jan. 1 this year and they are the best purchase I've ever made. I have been walking on a treadmill and also walking my dogs several miles a day for the past 20 years. But with Leslie's DVD's they add so much more of the body in the workouts. And she is so positive and upbeat. Between her DVD's, the treadmill and walking the dogs I average about 7 miles a day. It really is true that exercise improves your mood as well as your health and God calls us to be good stewards of our bodies. Kudos to all who are talking up the challenge.

Diane
March 21, 2008

Hi there,
Wow, so much resonates with me...I've been on and off exercise for the past 10yrs and at my highest weight ever now..recently got a new dog that loves to take long walks...but the wt isn't budging..I know the pnut btr eggs don't help, my hip flexors are killing me though, and my glutes, we go usu daily for an hour or so, but not all is walking if I run into others with dogs..I pray to start losing and stick with it....

YAY!!! I'm so pumped! I read the TCW talks to: Leslie Sansone article and I downloaded some walking worship tunes from YouTube. That's as far as I got, though. Then, after a talk with a fellow church member today about taking better care of our bodies, and overindulging at our church supper tonight, I came home and found this blog. I am totally in for 3 times a week. I hope I get emails on the blog updates, though, in case I forget LOL!!!

i too will join this. i agree that having someone to do this with will be easier. i had lost 54 lbs in the past with a walking partner. than i moved churches, let life get busy and gained all my weight back over the years plus more. i just had a hysterectomy and am 4 weeks post op. i need to get walking so this week i will start 3 times a week for at least 20 minutes. thanks for the challenge. i know its a God thing.
blessing

Hello Everyone,
This is awesome. I just started last week walking on my treadmill that had a pile of dust on it. I am 49 and want to be fit for my "50" birthday. I am about 25 lbs over weight and it is not good for my heart or my arthritis to be this way. God's timing is so wonderful! Good luck to everyone.

I too am attempting to lose some weight. I have been counting weight watchers points and have lost 8 lbs. so far. Also been walking 2-3 times a week.
I just got my Leslie Sansone book Walk Away The Pounds with dvd. I can't wait to use it and I have already started reading it.

Greetings Ladies,
Sign me up. I spend my days stuck behind a computer screen so virtual walking partners seem to be the answer to motivate me to walk. I would like to lose 20 lbs and just become more active but as an added bonus my outlook on life might improve.

I need to begin an exercise program also

Okay, I needed this little nudge. Out of shape for more years than I would like to admit. Survived chemo two years ago and it's time to get up and move! I really don't expect to lose many pounds, but that would be heavenly! However, I am committed and do expect to feel healthier and have more energy soon. Thanks for the encouragement.

great work Camerin. Thanks for sharing. I need to do this too. Stopped going to the gym when I was diagnosed with gallstones and was afraid of them moving and blocking some duct or other... When I get the surgeon's OK, I'll start back at the gym, and will also take the walking challenge - I need a reason to get up from my desk at work each lunchtime.
I agree, too, with the effect it has on fragile emotional states - my psych says not exercising for me is like taking a depressant....
See you on the virtual walking track, sisters!
Jenny

I hope it's not too late to join, but I need this. I've been waiting for Spring, but am not sure it's going to arrive this year. No more excuses. I've walked two days in a row...whoohoo. I'm on my way.

I bought a pedometer yesterday and started Weight Watchers today ! I really want to get healthy for my son as IM 52 with a 10 year old. I have 2 grand babies that I want to keep up with as well. I am praying each time I want to eat something thats not good for me and the lord is coming through for me ! What a blessing !

I'm excited to be a part - thanks for the invitation! I've lost 38 lbs in since May of 2005...slow but steady. I'm briskly walking a 2 mile course in my neighborhood 3-4 times a week with or without my husband, but love it to be with him! At a friend's encouragement, I've started a strength training class at our gym this week, and currently...can't move well at all! Walking helps release lactic acid into your muscles though to help repair and rebuild them. Do this for yourself & for your family...my mom died way too young, and my weight loss & journey to health started when my oldest daughter was married in May '05 without her MiMi (my mom). It was then that she asked me to be healthy and to be here when her children married one day...and now I'm fulfilling her request & loving the way I feel! It's great for my marriage, too!
Weight loss & the energy gained through exercise is a good thing! God bless and prosper you!

Hi guys, thanks to those of you who posted encouragements to me :)
I have been doing two days a week on the treadmill, just twenty mins walking with the odd bit of running here and there (as the music speeds up!) and plan to do something active with or without the kids once on the week end. Have been keeping up the treadmill during the week and if i miss it i don't bag myself I just keep going the next week - and i feel great. I also cut down carbs alot and started having otas every morning for break fast - and my mind and body feel great too! I have an alertness I haven't had since I don't know when even when I am tired so that is great. God is really helping me and I ma combining all this with reading the word more and renewing my mind - just a little every two days, working my way through the chapters and it's always spot on for me. My energy is picking up and my depression is feeling better. My friends here are also making the hugest difference as I make sure I actually see them (which is hard for me for some reason) and be real when I spend time with them. The walking is great - there's no pressure and I don't have to dread it if I am tired like I would have to with running as you can walk for 20 mins even if you're tired. I ma hoping of course the 20 mins will eventually grow but at least it's better than nothing for now. Keep it up girls - you may not be where you want to be yet, but you're also not where you were before either ( a friend has reminded me about that about alot of things in life) God bless.

1 year ago i lost approx. 25 pounds, and over the holiday and the winter months I have packed back on the pounds. Talk about a downer.....but I have decided to starting back counting my points through weight watchers and this time adding walking to my plan. Therefore I was excited to see the walking challenge. It encouraged me. I enjoyed looking in the mirror and shopping when I had dropped the weight, and since I've gained it back, I despise doing both right now. I am looking forward to the time all that changes. Best wishes to all who are taking on the challenge. We can do it.

I am exercising regularly now, after years of no exercise I could possible avoid. I am liking it, and the other ladies at Curves. I have given away about 30 pounds, and would like to give away another 50 or so. Right now I intend to keep on keeping on, because I feel better and look better. I say I am giving away the weight, because I have managed to find the pounds I lost many times. Maybe if I give them away, they won't be found again.

This is wonderful!!! I am interested in any challenge that will help me lose weight. I just signed up for a walk challenge at work. Count me in for this one too. I need inspiration and support from as many as possible, I am so embarresed of my 217lb. frame. Please pray for me and my success. I need you guys!!!