I've been reading a book on exercise that emphasizes building muscle and interval training. So I'm doing three sets of weight training per week, as well as one interval workout - either a timed metabolic workout, or countdown workout, and maybe a High Intensity Interval Training session every fortnight.
The book also emphasizes that a lot of weight loss is muscle, rather than fat. That's not great, and doesn't really change one's shape. The best shape I've been in has involved serious weight training, so I'm going for it. The book, however, claims it's not about cutting calories, but one look at the eating plan indicates that that is a load of rubbish. Rubbish. Anything that makes you completely cut out booze, cheese, and snacks other than celery/almonds is trying to make you cut calories. So this is irritating.
Nonetheless, the book does suggest something else that am adopting - throwing away the scales. Just no more. I weigh myself with great frequency, and the results do affect my mood and happiness more than I should. So I'm aiming for more veg, more healthy living, but no more increasing my discontent and negative self-image.
So far in July, I've not weighed myself. And I feel better. I know I need to exercise. I know I feel good when I eat more veg and get out in the garden. And I've been doing it.
If I were hesitant, this weekend provided affirmation of a previous resolution to relinquish negative influences. I gave up (most) women's magazines - particularly the style ones. A friend had a few for a train journey for our weekend away. They were utterly ludicrous, infuriating, negative, and stupid. I was so glad I don't spend my money on them, and realized how much better I feel without them providing a false sense of what I need and what I should be buying. It's great. So, scales, you're done, too.
