"Leaner Lawrence Contestants - The Tally and the Toll" by At Random / LJWorld.com

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Leaner Lawrence Contestants - The Tally and the Toll

Summer has arrived in a full blown frenzy of swaying wheat and lavender fields - many of which are pulled directionally and harvested.

Those of you who spend a great deal of time outside are becoming acclimated to the heat and beginning to tan.

Summer is a different way of life for many people. Longer daylight hours encourage more hours spent awake, which means more time for leisure activities including reading, gardening, yard work, walking the dog, cycling, lazing by the pool, or going for an early morning or late evening run.

Another group of people are beginning to struggle though: Leaner Lawrence contestants have dropped from the initial 115 contestants to a remaining 70. With the last weigh in showing an additional 198 lbs. lost (this puts the group's total weight loss to 1,024 pounds), and two months to go, the contestants are beginning to wonder if they too will complete the contest. As difficult as the initial change in diet, and adjusting to a work out schedule of at least three times weekly was, the fact is, the weight doesn't come off as easily now and the thrill of competition has taken a backseat.

Life has stepped in and many of us have found that we have become ill, lost a family member, taken a break for a vacation, and just had too many other life intrusions to complete the contest.

Rick Sells (owner of Lawrence Athletic Center and cosponsor of the contest along with KLWN) made it clear from the beginning that anyone who completed the contest would be a winner. I suspect many of those who have dropped by the wayside are also winners. They have been given the tools they need to lead a healthier lifestyle and should they find themselves in a position to utilize the information, they will lose the desired weight. They can still do it...so can you!

I see the changes in contestants everywhere I go. I see the Pendeltons at a Saturday morning Farmer's Market sporting tans, Their long, lean muscled bodies so different from the last time I saw them that I initially walk right by them. Between the two of them, they have lost around 70 lbs. They seem younger, more self confident, and they certainly talk about increased energy and how much they have benefited from the program.

I see another contestant walking with more pride in herself, beginning to wear make-up, sporting a new hairstyle, excited about dating. Another out dances me in Zumba and is wearing tight fitting shorts that someone half her age would be proud to fit into.

It is amazing what exercise and the right diet can do for your mental and physical health. It is all connected you know.

For those of you who are still in the contest (or completed another weight loss program) what words of wisdom would you share with other contestants? What do you have to say about your weight loss and exercise program?

For those of you who have dropped out of this contest....what got in your way, are you still working out on your own and eating right? Where's your motivation? We can do this...we all can!

By Ronda Miller

July 1, 2009

At Random

From the Citizen Journalism Academy

Discussion

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1 July 2009
at 11:40 a.m.

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Music_Girl (Anonymous) says…

I think one of the big things that get in the way is time. We get up at the crack of dawn and get ready for work while trying to get the kids ready for school or the babysitter or whatever and rush out the door at 6 or 7am. Then we spend most of our day sitting behind a computer (or standing behind a counter, etc) and cram lunch then get home and then you have to get dinner ready, take care of kids, clean and try to atleast pay attention to what your spouse is saying. When it is all said and done, we are exhausted and the thought of climbing onto the treadmill or bike for 30 minutes just seems completely unreasonable. Repeat atleast 5 days a week and I think that's the main reason Americans have such a hard time.
For myself personally, I am not a morning person or I would get up earlier and walk on my treadmill before I started my daily routine. By the time I get home I am going to many different directions and there are so many things to be done that it just seems impossible. I think those that can work it into their schedule and keep it there have found the biggest key to weight loss. Consistency.
1 July 2009
at 11:50 a.m.

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schula (Anonymous) says…

I think it is something you really have to work at. I have been trying to walk in the evenings, but with it being so hot, I haven't had much luck. I know I could always use the treadmill in my apartment's clubhouse. I need to try harder to do that.
1 July 2009
at 12:11 p.m.

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justbegintowrite (Ronda Miller) says…

musicgirl, I was exhausted just reading the list you gave! ;)

I agree though that we all try to fit way too many things into an already taxing lifestyle. They key is being “selfish”. It isn't really the bad word we were led to believe it is. Parents in particular often give until they are lost in the process of giving. They give their identity, their money, their physical selves, their emotional and mental selves. The next thing they know - exhaustion sets in along with bad health, lifestyle, eating habits, and no or low self esteem.

Everyone reading this has my permission to put yourself first - not one hundred percent of the time, but long enough to exercise and make and eat a healthy meal. And I agree that consistency is part of the key to success! Life choices and changes.

schula, What are you willing to commit to doing today? Start there and the rest will follow. Put on your walking shoes as soon as you get up in the morning if you are an early exerciser and/or put them on as soon as you get home from work if you are an evening exerciser. Just that first step puts you one step closer to your goal. You can do it!!!!!!
1 July 2009
at 12:13 p.m.

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dancemomx2 (Anonymous) says…

Just sticking with it and doing your best is what I tell myself and my kids. I have continued with Dog Days this summer and have lost a few pounds. I will agree with schula about the heat. It was definitely hard to go the days that it felt over 100 degrees. (Unfortunately I can't go in the morning so I go at 6pm.) Once I get there and start stretching I'm usually very glad I went. I'm not sure what it is that attracts me to it but I'm addicted!!

Congrats to all who have lost all the pounds, that is awesome.

Come on out to the world's largest workout on July 8!!! Let's try to help eachother live happy and healthier lives
1 July 2009
at 12:13 p.m.

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schula (Anonymous) says…

Thanks for the encouraging words, Ronda. I will start this new program tomorrow — I know, I know, I should start it today. I already have plans for this evening and won't be home until later.
1 July 2009
at 12:43 p.m.

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honeychild (Mel Briscoe) says…

i am not an crack-of-dawn workout type of girl. i've tried it, just can't do it. there are some things that you just know about yourself and i know that i will never be one of those early a.m. busting butt people. i used to work out in the afternoon, after work, like lots of folks, but of course, when it is hot as hell, that kind of zaps the motivation right out of you. evening is better than morning but i always have so much stuff i have to get done in the evening, either that, or i'm exhausted from DOING all of the stuff and don't want to go anywhere else or do anything extra.
1 July 2009
at 1:11 p.m.

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justbegintowrite (Ronda Miller) says…

honey, I heard nothing but excuses. and I mean that in the nicest of possible ways. Let's have you rephrase what you said above and tell us what you can do…what you are willing to do. We are talking about quality of life here!…Put your health first and the rest will follow. Having said that, I am not a morning or heat person either…I am surprised that doing Zumba early evening works for me as well as it does. I have to make sure I fuel up with a protein drink beforehand though or I would never make it. Change out that attitude…get positive..you can do so many things.

schula, just being aware tonight that you are beginning tomorrow will hopefully have you consuming healthy items instead of reaching for the high calorie, low nutrition items. Awareness Before Choice (basic ABC's of eating).

dancemom, thanks for the words of encouragement to all. I know as a mom you lead a busy and hectic schedule. So proud that you are taking good care of yourself. It helps you parent better…would you agree? And look at the positive influence you are to your children and the others in your life.

1 July 2009
at 1:18 p.m.

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hail2oldku (Anonymous) says…

We've all been there and many of us have made those same excuses. Too much else going on, too much time, not enough energy, etc., etc.

I was right there with you people until Rick and Ronda got me going in this program. Yes it was a PITA for the first few weeks, then IT became a habit. Now I'm doing Dog Days (already have enough for the t-shirt) and lifting three days/week. The changes I've made added to my energy level and now I feel bad when I miss a day.

When I started, I weighed over 300 lbs. I'm now down to 245. If I can do it, so can you. As Ronda said, be selfish for yourself. It will allow you to give even more back.

Don't want to go the gym? Look at Men's Health or Women's Health .com, they both have some excellent programs that you can do with out purchasing anything. You'd be amazed at what a body weight workout can do to help tone those sagging body parts and start you towards your weight loss goal.

For those still in the program, keep up the good work. Anyone that's dropped out, try and start again. Don't let time get in your way. For those that didn't start Leaner Lawrence, don't use that as an excuse get out there and do it for YOU. I'm confident that you'll be glad that you did.
1 July 2009
at 1:33 p.m.

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Music_Girl (Anonymous) says…

Where can one get info on the Leaner Lawrence thing? I have no idea what you guys are talking about…
1 July 2009
at 1:46 p.m.

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dancemomx2 (Anonymous) says…

Ronda - I definitely agree it's helps my parenting. Just working out helps me to relieve any stress. It's hard to see so many people overweight and unhealthy. I believe you just have to work it in. Like you said make time for yourself. Most of the time I go to DD I take the kids. My 2 yr. old loves it. It helps me to burn more calories.

Hail - Congrats on your shirt!! Is it your first? Do you go in the morning or evening? Have you also been doing the Saturdays? Did you double up some days? Okay enough questions. I just like to know my fellow Dog Dayers. I'm one of the stroller moms so if you go in the evening you can probably pick me out. Come up and say “hi”!

Taking the time for yourself helps you to be a happier person also. One person said at Dog Days, “I just want the be the best of the worst”. As long as I finish I'm happy. Know if I could give up my daily caffeine I would probably drop a few more pounds!! That's so hard to do. I love my Pepsi.
1 July 2009
at 2:17 p.m.

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passionatelibra (Anonymous) says…

What is a Dog Day?
1 July 2009
at 2:31 p.m.

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schula (Anonymous) says…

It is a workout presented by Don “Red Dog” Garner. The workouts are outside Robinson Gym either early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
1 July 2009
at 3 p.m.

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passionatelibra (Anonymous) says…

Thanks schula! I might check it out :o)
1 July 2009
at 3:04 p.m.

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dancemomx2 (Anonymous) says…

Here is the website, pasionate:

http://www.reddogsdogdays.org
1 July 2009
at 3:24 p.m.

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zettapixel (Anonymous) says…

I've lost 30 pounds since May 9th and my best advice is to supplement your cardio routine with weight training. Alternate days with 45 minutes of cardio and 45 minutes of weights and you'll be in great shape in no time! I also keep my calories to 1800-2000 a day with 20% of those calories coming from fat, 40% from carbs, and 40% from protein.

1 July 2009
at 3:39 p.m.

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passionatelibra (Anonymous) says…

Thank you for the link dancemom :o) I am really struggling here (started putting weight back on) so I am looking for something to shake things up. I will write more about it later when I have more time.

Thanks again!
1 July 2009
at 3:49 p.m.

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justbegintowrite (Ronda Miller) says…

hail, yes, you are one of our poster models for the Leaner Lawrence program. (musicgirl, contact me for additional information). Congrats on your weight loss and commitment to turning your life around. This is a lifetime commitment after all…not “just” a contest and you have consistently led the way.

I agree with what you are all saying about the importance of both weight lifting and cardio workouts. Don't be afraid to change up your routine once in awhile. If you have a personal trainer and they haven't suggested you do just that then ask them why!

passion, Dog Days might just be what you need to get motivated again…a lot of communal support from like minded people. You will find people of all ages and walks of life and you do things at your own speed - rather like Zumba. Some things might be too difficult initially, but there is only one way to find out and you are already preconditioned!

zetta, we are doing the 40/30/30 diet plan, but it sounds as though you are doing something very close. Our contestants pick their foods of choice as long as they meet the criteria above…carbs, protein, fat. and we are all still at the losing stage, instead of maintenance, so we are changing out our total calories as we lose weight.
Congrats on your personal weight loss and victory!
1 July 2009
at 3:56 p.m.

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justbegintowrite (Ronda Miller) says…

The following was sent to me by a Leaner Lawrence contestant who is having a difficult time getting into our system. Most of you in the contest will recognize the names…which have not been changed to protect their privacy… ;)

“Thank you again for helping us with this program. Rick you are a VERY generous man to donate your facility for this program. Erv & I do not follow the plan strictly… just doesn't work in to our lives right now BUT… you have made us conscious of what & how we eat. We have made small changes in our eating and have taken advantage of the gym as often as we can. This program didn't dictate extreme changes but encouraged just small steps. Just a few changes has helped me drop 22 pounds & decreased the pain in my back & knees so I can walk without getting exhausted. Just baby steps and I am encouraged to keep at it. I don't feel I have given anything up. I hate the phrase can't have! i can have but lets make it just one scoop of ice cream instead of a half a carton! I CAN have 1 cookie not the whole box. I CAN have that cream sauce just not the whole kettle. … Thank you for the encouragement. Thank you for the resources. Thank you for your time.”
Mary Ann

Mary Ann, I absolutely CAN have more of your positive attitude. Thanks so much for your comments and congratulations to both you and Erv for the life changes you are consciously making on a daily basis, and for your weight loss and increased strength. Atta Girl!!!!!!
1 July 2009
at 10:51 p.m.

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lctchr1 (Anonymous) says…

Strength training is key if you are over the age of 30. You also have to substantially cut your calories (sometimes by half). I know that sounds like a lot, but if you keep a diary of the foods your intake during the day, you will be surprised by how many calories you consume. You will get in the habit by week 2. You just have to make it that long. Good luck! This all leads back to all the heated healthcare discussions we have on this site. Obesity is the number 1 problem in America.
2 July 2009
at 8:32 a.m.

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justbegintowrite (Ronda Miller) says…

lctchr1, I agree that strength training is essential to burning fat and conditioning to your maximum potential. And I also agree that people are generally consuming about twice the amount of calories they require for optimum health - and factor in most of those calories are empty - not wonder we have a heath care and obesity crisis in our world.

I think one of the surprising things for me is that people know this, have the information at hand, see it in magazines, newspapers, television, and they choose to ignore it.

People need to start by recognizing they have a problem (ideally way before this), care enough to begin their course of action, and stick to it.

I know the people who are competing in the Leaner Lawrence Contest really felt a difference immediately in their energy level and fast weight loss. It is difficult to maintain this diet in essence because we have the tendency to fall back into old lifestyle habits. Making a change of this nature is a life long commitment….it isn't a diet, a contest…it is a life style change. And your life is longer, healthier, happier with it.
2 July 2009
at 10:39 a.m.

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theryn (Anonymous) says…

I was trying to work out after my daughter went to bed and I was just too tired to do it. The plan that is working for my family is this: After dinner my husband takes our daughter to the park. I have a few exercise videos I like to rotate, so I do one of those for about 30-40 minutes. They get back and we alternate bath and clean up. Then I start getting her ready for bed and a few times a week he slips out to meet a friend for a game of racquetball or his weekly kickball game.

We also meet friends at a park on Sundays and take lots of balls. The dads play catch. The moms kick around a ball with the kids and everyone climbs the playground equipment and pushes swings with the kids.
2 July 2009
at 10:46 a.m.

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justbegintowrite (Ronda Miller) says…

theryn, it is great that you make the extra effort to both get a work out in. You are fortunate to have a husband who is willing to do his share and help out. (I know…that is the way things should be!)

I know personally that when children are quite young, it is extra hard to “make” time for yourself. I am always in awe of people I see out running with their newborn baby in the stroller ahead of them. That takes so much commitment…and amazing how quickly those moms get back into pre pregnancy shape.

I think the moral here is that where there is a will there is a way. Thanks for sharing what works for you and your family. I love the idea of meeting with friends at a park and getting exercise. Anytime it becomes about fun it tends to work much better.

What exercise videos are your favs. if you don't mind my asking?
2 July 2009
at 12:19 p.m.

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sassypants (Anonymous) says…

I do zumba twice a week, resistance 1 or 2 days a week. And since our rider is broke, I mow the freakin grass by push mower 3 to 4 times a week for a couple hrs those nights. Seems like we get one thing fixed on the rider and something else happens to it. We have an acre of land so its going to be a very long summer.

2 July 2009
at 12:35 p.m.

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justbegintowrite (Ronda Miller) says…

Wow, sassy. You are doing a awful lot of mowing with the push mower. No wonder you looked so terrific the last time I saw you…and it was you I referred to about wearing the small shorts…you look fabulous!

It is going to be a long hot summer…and a long lush grass growing Fall..get used to it! ;)

Happy 4th. Hope you'll get a break.
2 July 2009
at 1:06 p.m.

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MaryKatesPillStash (Anonymous) says…

Red Dog Days is something I miss the most about Lawrence summers. I've looked and looked, and I can't find anything like it anywhere around here. Everyone posting here should go try it at least once. It attracts such a wide variety of people. You would think that with such an array of people and fitness levels, it would be impossible for a program to give everyone a decent workout. As a young athlete going to RDD for the first time, I thought “there's no way this program with all these old people and their kids will benefit me at all.” But that workout kicked my butt. And I had a blast every time.

Also, for those of you saying you simply don't have the energy to workout because of all of your daily activities—that's precisely the reason you need to get in shape. You will find that, once you have been working out regularly and are in shape, you have tons more energy and can do all these things more effortlessly. It might take some big-time motivation to get yourself to work out, but once you make a routine of it, it falls in line with your daily tasks. So quit whining about all your excuses (which everyone else in the world has, too—they are not unique to you) and go move your body for 30 minutes a day. Or else you will remain a blob while everyone else starts looking good.
2 July 2009
at 1:12 p.m.

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passionatelibra (Anonymous) says…

I looked at the sample Red Dog workout on the website and it was a little intimidating. I plan on checking it out though. I will probably go in the evening and take my Son with me.
2 July 2009
at 4 p.m.

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justbegintowrite (Ronda Miller) says…

passion, read the above over and over again. No excuses, please!

I was trained by Red Dog while a rookie on the police department. I was smoking two packs a day at that time and was so out of shape I couldn't run more than a half mile that first time.. I was so afraid of heights I was terrified I would fall over backwards if there were to be a strong wind when I was supposed to run the stadium steps. I was so sore after the first few days that I reeked of Ben Gay and rubbed it all over my body several times daily. Then an amazing thing happened. I transformed into being in the best shape of my life. By the end of the (I believe 16 weeks) academy I could run three miles, ran up and down stadium steps, did thirty push ups in a minute, probably well over 50 sit ups in a minute., etc., etc., etc., And, exercise is the great equalizer - if you are underweight you gain and if you are overweight you lose. I was very thin then and it got my body weight up.

The nice thing about those work outs are that people from all ages, walks of life, physical capabilities and conditioning are going together for a united purpose. You do the best you can do, you push yourself to do more, you notice immediate improvement in your condition and energy level.

You would love this, passion…trust me!

Mary, so glad you stashed those pills and are in to working out. Hey, if your area doesn't have a program like Dog Days then get something started. Find a coach, retired policeman, a health fitness expert…or do it on your own. What a worthwhile cause!
2 July 2009
at 8:10 p.m.

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theryn (Anonymous) says…

Ronda,

I get exercise videos from Netflix so I can try them out before I commit. I've been doing The Biggest Loser Weight Loss Yoga the last few weeks. It only uses a few yoga moves but you hold them for a long time. I can feel a good workout from it and I'm not getting overwhelmed trying to learn new moves like I have with other yoga videos. I also like the 10 minute workout series. I have the kickboxing and pilates versions and like them because I can customize the workouts to focus on different body parts and for different lengths of workouts.
2 July 2009
at 8:25 p.m.

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schula (Anonymous) says…

As promised, I walked for 30 minutes after work. I am hoping to walk for 30 minutes every day or at least every other day. If it is too hot outside, I will use the treadmill in my apartment clubhouse.
2 July 2009
at 11:08 p.m.

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SusieCreamcheeze (Anonymous) says…

I have a treadmill for sale….any takers?
2 July 2009
at 11:51 p.m.

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justbegintowrite (Ronda Miller) says…

theryn, I didn't even think about Netflix…I haven't signed up with them yet but know a couple of people who do. I think that is a terrific way to switch out your program so you don't get bored and your muscles get a different work out. I particularly like the idea for yoga and pilates….I have a machine and don't use it… I need to give it a try as I have heard wonderful things about it. Good ideas. Thanks!

susie, hopefully someone will notice your treadmill…what make and how much are you asking? thanks!

schula, what is this “I am hoping” part of your commitment. just leave it at “I will”….and you will do much better. This is a great beginning for you and just think how much stamina you will have by the time the weather cools down in September.

3 July 2009
at 8:09 a.m.

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femail (Linda Hanney) says…

Whew, Ronda. I feel I've had a workout just reading your post and the comments. In order for me to stick to working out indoors, I have a cheap television with DVD player. I decide how long I want to walk and make myself turn off the movie at that time. Then, I can't wait to get back down there the next day to continue the movie. (Library has free movies). Same with walking outdoors—book on tape & once or twice a week good ole rock n' roll to make sure the heart rate is up. I could probably get a better workout in a group such as Dog Days, but I kind of like the solitude. I have started going to a Palates class once a week—love it but hard for the working people, I know. Great post about exercise, by the way, Ronda.
3 July 2009
at 8:33 a.m.

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justbegintowrite (Ronda Miller) says…

Linda, well, considering your body type is one I admire, I appreciate your input here! I know you love being outdoors and staying fit so you can enjoy traveling too.

I love your suggestion of the movie idea. I do something similar during basketball season. I decide that I can walk the treadmill while “our boys” are playing the game. I figure if they can run up and down the court for that length of time that I should be able to walk it. It also keeps me from cussing so much when something goes wrong!

For anyone who has a favorite television show, etc., Linda's idea about using that time to exercise is a terrific one. Do something you really enjoy while you are exercising and the time passes by quickly. That same idea is why having a partner works so well - you both talk and the next thing you know your program is finished.

Happy 4th, Linda!
3 July 2009
at 8:44 a.m.

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Music_Girl (Anonymous) says…

Ronda, I use the tv thing too. I generally watch an episode of House or CSI that has been pre-recorded so I don't get distracted during commercials. By fast forwarding through the commercials it works out to about a 40 minute show and that is what my goal for walking at a time is so it works out great! I have also mastered texting and walking on the treadmill and closing my eyes, listening to music and walking on the treadmill. Both things keep my mind and eyes unfocused on how far I've gone and how many calories I've burned till I'm done which is nice.
3 July 2009
at 9:44 a.m.

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justbegintowrite (Ronda Miller) says…

music, Good morning! Your coordination is far better than mine! I just learned how to text recently - the IPod made it simple even for me. :)

Good choice shows those. I am huge fans of CSI and House! I am glad this routine works for you. The idea with exercise is to sneak it in with something so enjoyable you don't even notice you are doing “exercise” or to do something that helps pass the time…I love lifting weights and “going into the zone”. I don't believe I have found any other activity, besides writing poetry, that takes me into the zone so completely.

Do you do any weights - strength workouts?
6 July 2009
at 2:40 p.m.

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hail2oldku (Anonymous) says…

The tv thing can be good, but watch out.

I was at the gym yesterday morning watching the Gentlemen's Final while on the treadmill. I stepped onto the machine during the third set, and didn't climb off until 2 1/2 hours later. I thought I was going to have to catch someone to fill my water bottle for me a couple of times there.
6 July 2009
at 10:03 p.m.

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justbegintowrite (Ronda Miller) says…

hail, good point! Hopefully your legs aren't killing you today!
8 July 2009
at 2:13 p.m.

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Man4family (Steve Lewis) says…

My hat (or better my sweat band) is off to Rick Sells for what he has done for us Leaner Lawrence folks. His offer to the community came along at just the right time for me. It is most generous of him to open his athletic center to the participants, and provide the information and support we need to succeed. My special thanks to you, Ronda, for your words of encouragement and exhortation.
My progress has been in the cardio exercise area, being able to get to the LAC 3 to 5 times a week since March. With a bit of a bum knee I have stuck with the rowing machine and the recumbent bike. I'll list some of the benefits I have experienced.

My mildly arthritic knee hasn't bothered me since starting the program in March.
I now climb the 43 steps at work without being winded, and do so 4 or 5 times a day with pleasure.
I feel generally better, more alert, and more self-confident.
I don't feel as generally tired as before and am sleeping better.
My wife informs me I don't snore as loud as before.
I haven't had any acid reflux events since starting the program.
I have received encouragement and praise from my wife, who, by the way, has taken to exercising regularly herself, but not as a Leaner Lawrence participant.
When my granddaughters hug me they can now get their arm completely around me.
And finally, most all physical activity - walk mowing my 2.5 acre lawn or cutting firewood - have become easier and more enjoyable.

Thanks Rick, thanks Ronda, and my best to all us Leaner Lawrence types who have stuck with the program.