[mikemc282002]

Hello all,

Thanks for adding me. I'm trying to develop my own diet/workout routine. It's based mostly on the Body For Life book. I'm doing weights 4 times a week and cardio twice a week. The key to the Body for Life workout is to train or run using peaks and valleys. You do an exercise with progressively more weight/difficulty until failure. It can be draining but I'm feeling results pretty quickly.

As far the dieting part, I'm TRYING. I quit smoking recently (two months this coming Sunday) so I have trouble at night when I crave a snack. I think I've finally licked the smoking addiction but now I have to give up the bad food habit that's replaced it. I'm trying to lose about 70 pounds in the long run. I just find it very difficult to count calories or plan meals every day. I'm pretty convinced that diet is a bit more important than exercise in my case. I have no problem gettting to the gym and really love putting on my ipod and working out. It's a nice stress relief. The diet needs work though.

Does anyone have thoughts on whether it's better to strictly follow an "official" diet or to design something that fits the individual?

[retrokitten]

I do better when I have something structured to follow, but that is just me. Some others have been having great success with customized plans.

IMO, the best diet is something you are going to stick to and that works with your lifestyle. I did fabulous on Atkins, but it was really difficult for me to stick to.

No matter what plan you go with, though, you are going to need to plan your meals a bit. I know it sucks, but it really does help to plan and track what you are eating.