Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Jolene Connelly on August 6, 2007 at 9:29pm

I'm currently working out of the Firefighter's Workout Book by Michael Stefano. It's amazing. It teaches the correct way to do things. I used to do tons of sit-ups and gain nothing. Now that I'm doing them right I definitely feel the difference.

Permalink Reply by Jolene Connelly on August 11, 2007 at 12:02pm

What do you attribute your losing the weight, too? I'm trying to lose (particularly around the middle and thigh area. I'm doing the sit-ups and leg lifts along with my own aerobic stuff.

Permalink Reply by Randy Macey on August 17, 2007 at 9:04pm

Your talking about this book " Michael's Book" where does one find this book.... I have quit smoking and you know what happens. As well when you get older, yes the knees seem to not want to work. Yes I have gained a couple of extra pounds, I'm the one that will open the door for you, but don't count on me running no 5 miles for you. It's not easy!

Mace

Permalink Reply by Jolene Connelly on August 18, 2007 at 7:56pm

I picked my copy up at Barnes & Noble. I've seen it at Border's also. Or you can always check out Amazon. I believe there is also a cookbook. You're looking for "The Firefighter's Workout Book" by Michael Stefano.

Permalink Reply by Tristen Cruz on August 19, 2007 at 12:11pm

I used Michael's book for a while with some success. Some years ago I got down to 10% body fat using a program called body-for-life, and I've returned to that starting last week. It is a full program incorporating a 6X week workout and a nutritional education program. Yes, like a lot of folks the toughest part for me is the self-discipline to stick with it. I do okay with the workouts (I force myself to go to the gym on my way to the station... working out at 5:00 in the morning-- blech!) but I do so love my sweets, which I have to severely limit. The program basics can be found at the web-site.

Permalink Reply by Heather Langston on August 28, 2007 at 3:33pm

Thought this might be some motivation. It shows how to execute the techniques and is very simple since it is all mostly body weight.

Permalink Reply by Diana S on August 29, 2007 at 9:28pm

I am also interested in having a workout buddy. I have the firefighter workout on DVD, but have found the hiking with a weight vest is doing more for me. I also found out from my doctor that I actually wasn't eating enough calories. That was causing me to gain weight and the workouts not really doing much for me. I now write down everything I eat or drink, as well as the excersises I do. This helps me track my progress. I eat 1650 calories a day, which is actually a lot of food. I am averaging 5 pounds a month, but sometimes wish it were faster. Also have notice that the circuit training in 30 second intervals is pretty effective, but I am looking for some variety so it doesn't get old, and my body doesn't get use to it. I welcome any advice.
Thanks;

Diana

Permalink Reply by Heather Langston on September 2, 2007 at 9:59am

Great job on the diet. I started being successful once I started eating the right way. I would go through phases of trying not to eat more then twice a day, never realizing that I was actually shutting my body down. Now, when I work, I plan my entire days meals out before I even leave the house. That way I don't force the guys at my station to embrace my meal plan. I usually work out when they eat,especially if it is something that I shouldn't have.

The five pounds a month is the perfect weight loss. Slow and steady tends to be more perminent. I weigh in once a week and I also measure my chest, waist, hips, thighs and arms. That way I can keep track of my progress if I've added muscle.

When it comes to exercises, I try to vary things as much as possible. This accomplishes two things: my body doesn't get comfortable. Also, I have ADD and I get bored with long term repetition. When I work, I have a circuit that I do around the station using hose and a sledge hammer. I throw in some push-ups, crunches, and squats. On my off days, I walk and use different routes. Between laps, I do general body weight exercises.

Women's Health magazine has a website that offers exercise suggestions and plans. Also a website called About.com has a section on fitness where you can sign up for a thirty day fitness challenge. They send you an email every day with suggestions for exercises.

Finally, if you want to get off the hook and can tolerate a little testosterone cheeck out.....
http://www.spartan-warriors.co.uk/forum/index.php

Sounds like you are doing great. Keep it up!!

Permalink Reply by Tristen Cruz on September 16, 2007 at 2:37pm

I'm thrilled to see when people figure out that eating correctly is as important as the exercise. One thing I'd caution, if you are using strenuous exercise, don't be a slave to the scale. Remember that muscle is heavier than fat so, even though you can be slimming down and toning up, getting into great shape, the scale can lie to you and discourage you. I find body-fat composition to be a more accurate measure for me.
I'm also happy to see people using their primary doctors as a resource in getting into shape. That's what they're supposed to be there for.
Keep it up!