GENERAL DISCUSSIONS

Here's a wacky idea- firefly fit club?

POSTED BY: PERSEPHONE736
UPDATED: Monday, March 27, 2006 09:12
SHORT URL:
VIEWED: 14499
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Sunday, March 19, 2006 12:41 PM

PERSEPHONE736


So I'm at home and bored and realized that I am a tad bit out of shape. Anybody else here feel the same way? The dating service post got me thinking, why don't we start a kind of support system or whatever to lose weight, get in shape, etc. I've noticed while reading these posts that firefly fans tend to be pretty supportive and friendly so...use this post as you choose or don't use it at all, I don't care. I'll just start out by saying that I would very much like to have a body like River. I am very much motivated by the lovely looking cast to get in shape, so who's with me?! (cue the motivational yell)


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Sunday, March 19, 2006 1:04 PM

MAROS


I reckon this is a great idea! I need to get into better shape myself if not solely to make things easier (Better muscles makes everyday tasks less effort ). Might see if I can actualy keep some kind of regular thing going...of course quitting smoking might help that along but bah

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Sunday, March 19, 2006 1:58 PM

TIVO25


Interesting notion! I've started assembling a Jayne costume, and I've been meaning to start bulking up so I can do the costume justice. (I'd hate to look like an anorexic version of Jayne). Not that I'm an unhealthy weight, I've got a good 180 lbs. on me, but on a 6'1" frame, that gets spread out a bit.

All that to say, I'd be interested.

So you thinkin' of makin' a simple little website? A forum? Just using this thread?

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Sunday, March 19, 2006 2:08 PM

WASHBURNEFAN


How about A Firefly Restaurant!

First on the Menu:

Jayne Corn on the Cobb

Shepard's Pie

Anything Else?

Hahaha! Mine is an evil laugh... Now die!

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Sunday, March 19, 2006 3:13 PM

GRIZWALD


I could sure use some fitness. I'm getting back into belly dance but it's more flexibility than cardiovascular or weight loss.

____________________________________________________
They could not take the sky from them -
Our Big Damn Heroes made a film!
I'm gonna see Serenity then
go back the next morning and see it again.
Cuz no one at Fox knew this show had no equal
C'mon Universal, and greenlight the sequel!

Click on my profile for my Annoyingly Long List of Firefly Links.

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Sunday, March 19, 2006 3:28 PM

SIGMANUNKI


Wouldn't mind this at all

----
"We're in a giant car heading into a brick wall at 100 miles/hr and everybody's arguing about where they want to sit."
-David Suzuki

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Sunday, March 19, 2006 3:35 PM

PERSEPHONE736


Yay for us. In a few months time we will all be able to take on reavers, o yeah they better watch out:)

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Sunday, March 19, 2006 3:56 PM

SIGMANUNKI


For sure! But, how we gonna work this?

----
"We're in a giant car heading into a brick wall at 100 miles/hr and everybody's arguing about where they want to sit."
-David Suzuki

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Sunday, March 19, 2006 4:04 PM

PERSEPHONE736


It's up to you guys- post your goals (weight, fitness, etc.), who you most want to resemble:)- I choose River (I prefer the lean look, not so much muscle), and when you can't fight the urge for a snickers bar- come to us and we'll help you through it! I'll start: I set a weight loss goal of 10 pounds (gotta get ready for those itsy bitsy bikinis) and plan to cut out evil potato chips from my diet. It will be a challenge so I am depending on hearing lots of success stories from you guys to keep me motivated. Other than that, use this thread as you like. And hey, I don't know what you guys look like and vice versa so there is no pressure and no worries of being judged:) Happy exercising!

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Sunday, March 19, 2006 5:04 PM

SIGMANUNKI


We don't have a scale so, I'm gonna have to define what I want to do as, make my jeans loose enough that I need a belt.

I've already started to cut down on portion size at meals, but I really need to start exercising regularly.

Thus my "now goal" is to exercise every day this week. Even if it is just a couple push-ups and such.

----
"We're in a giant car heading into a brick wall at 100 miles/hr and everybody's arguing about where they want to sit."
-David Suzuki

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Monday, March 20, 2006 1:28 AM

CITIZEN


How much exercise is good for FireFlys?

I'm a guy but I can honestly say I'd like a body like Rivers, if you know what I mean...



More insane ramblings by the people who brought you beeeer milkshakes!
No beast so fierce but knows some touch of pity. But I know none, and therefore am no beast.

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Monday, March 20, 2006 2:17 AM

DONCOAT


Quote:

Originally posted by SigmaNunki:
For sure! But, how we gonna work this?

That's the $64k question, isn't it?

If only we all lived together... like, on a spaceship...

Would it be feasible to have virtual workouts, kind of like the virtual shindigs? For those, everybody who wants to participate gets on line at the same time and watches the same episode(s) of Firefly alone/together.

If there were a time, or small number of times, we could settle on, maybe we could work out "together" in some similar way.

(By the way, I could stand to lose a bit of this spare tire, and I think maybe some fellow Browncoats might provide just the motivation I need.)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I don't disagree on any particular point.

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Monday, March 20, 2006 5:13 AM

PERSEPHONE736


Quote:

Originally posted by DonCoat:
Quote:

Originally posted by SigmaNunki:
For sure! But, how we gonna work this?



Would it be feasible to have virtual workouts, kind of like the virtual shindigs? For those, everybody who wants to participate gets on line at the same time and watches the same episode(s) of Firefly alone/together.

If there were a time, or small number of times, we could settle on, maybe we could work out "together" in some similar way.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I don't disagree on any particular point.



virtual workouts is a cool idea

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Monday, March 20, 2006 6:59 AM

TIVO25


Given that Browncoats can be found from all over the world and from all walks of life, it would probably be extremely difficult to coordinate a "virtual" workout. What's important in any excercise routine, I think, is to set goals and take note of progress towards those goals. The best use of this thread is probably going to be support.

As suggested earlier in this thread by another poster, I'd agree that we should post something fairly specific about current physical state, short term desired physical state, and ultimate desired physical state. Additionally, I think daily or weekly progress reports regarding progress made and problems encountered so others can take heart from your success or give you support if you falter. Plus, just the fact that you know you're actually going to fess up to someone if you didn't work-out makes you a little more likely to actually do it.

For instance:

I'm 6'1", 180 lbs. Scrawny, in other words.

My Immediate Goal is to get back in to an excercise routine. The hardest thing for me is to just get started. Immediate problem - I stay up too late watching downloaded television programs (or store bought) and can't get myself up early enough to work-out. I really want to get into a morning work-out routine, after work is when I enjoy other hobbies.

My Short-term Goal is to work out consistantly for a month, weights & cardio. I've lost track of how many times I've started & stopped this work-out thing. It seems everytime I get going, it lasts 2-4 weeks before something comes up that breaks my routine and I slide back into the Immediate Problem. Whether its getting sick, or a friend comes into town and I stay up too late/drink too much, or what-not. And then its back to the drawing board.

Long-term Goal - look like Simon in Objects in Space. I want his abs. Problem is, I have a freakishly high metabolism. Its calmed down a little as I've gotten older, but there was a time I could down an entire large pizza and be hungry again an hour or two later (and not put on a pound). Just eating "healthy" isn't enough, I need to really eat "smart" in order to get the right amount of carbs, protein etc. to combat the thin-ness. And when you're on a very tight budget, and only cooking for one, that gets old, fast.

I can't afford to do something complicated and complex every night, nor do I have the inclination when I'm the only one I'm cooking for.

I've done a lot of reading in muscle, fitness magazines, etc. So I've got a good idea what I need to do, just putting the plan in motion tends to be problematic.

Okay, that was a long post. Hopefully from the time I hit "reply" to the time I hit "submit" other posts haven't made my reply too redundant.

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Monday, March 20, 2006 7:14 AM

MAROS


I'm in a similar situation to you there TiVO25...bout six foot ish and around 170. We gotta find some way to actualy guage how well it's going...maybe arm/chest measurement or something along those lines? I dont have a clue to be honest, but it'd be nice to have some kinda way to see if all (read: any) effort getting put in is actualy doing anything.

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Monday, March 20, 2006 7:46 AM

GRIZWALD


How's about this? I want to be able to bend over like River does in Objects in Space.

____________________________________________________
They could not take the sky from them -
Our Big Damn Heroes made a film!
I'm gonna see Serenity then
go back the next morning and see it again.
Cuz no one at Fox knew this show had no equal
C'mon Universal, and greenlight the sequel!

Click on my profile for my Annoyingly Long List of Firefly Links.

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Monday, March 20, 2006 8:24 AM

AMYLISAI


ok, that one at least I can help with! I did ballet for many many years... and the best way to get flexible (I'm not so much anymore, but can always bend over like River at least) is to stretch a little every day. NOT SO IT HURTS. Just hold your stretch for 30 seconds or a minute. Every other day would work too--you will really see results by at least the first month. To get River's touch-the-floor flexibility, sit on the floor with your feet in front of you and try to touch your toes. Also stand up and bend over to try to touch your toes. Lastly you can put a leg up on your table or bed or something and try to touch the toes on one leg at a time. The first two stretches are probably the easier ones.

Good luck, keep us posted (so to speak).

As for me, I need to lose some weight, I'd like to fit into my clothes better (pants are falling apart and need to buy new ones but want to wait until I'm my size again). I hate dieting (totally with the guy who cooks for himself too by the way, makes it much harder to eat good food) so I'm going to try to exercise more. This week: goal is 4 workouts of half hour each.

Oh, and lastly I'd like to recommend Karen Voigt to everyone. She makes great workout videos with cardio, hand-weight training (seriously build muscle without spending on a gym membership), abs, etc. I recommend "Strong and Streamlined" DVD--has a bunch of stuff on it

Cheers, Amy

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Monday, March 20, 2006 8:39 AM

GRIZWALD


Sounds like a plan! (stretchy stretch stretch) Okay, first daily hamstring stretch - DONE. Felt good, even.

____________________________________________________
They could not take the sky from them -
Our Big Damn Heroes made a film!
I'm gonna see Serenity then
go back the next morning and see it again.
Cuz no one at Fox knew this show had no equal
C'mon Universal, and greenlight the sequel!

Click on my profile for my Annoyingly Long List of Firefly Links.

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Monday, March 20, 2006 8:40 AM

UNREGISTEREDCOMPANION


Exercise just isn't cutting it for me. I do water aerobics twice a week, belly dancing once a week (with some short practice sessions throughout the week), and either walk for an hour or go to the gym (eliptical and tredmill) the rest of the time. I am working out AT LEAST 6 times a week.

How much weight have I lost? None. I have been doing the belly dance for almost 2 years, and the water aerobics/walking for one. Sure I feel better. Yes I have lost inches...BUT I WANT TO THROW THE SCALE THROUGH THE WINDOW!!!

I have already given up potatoes in any form (for an Irish chick this is NOT EASY), cut WAY back on bread, switched to whole wheat pasta and brown rice, etc...

I have the world's slowest motabolism. BLEH!

Anyway...I would follow a work out thread for new ideas and just to keep generally motivated since I am in such a pissy mood concerning exercise right now.

~~~~~
"Funny and sexy. You have no idea. And you never will."

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Monday, March 20, 2006 8:54 AM

SIGMANUNKI


I'll make my recommendations, which is pretty much going to be voicing a lot of what was already voiced.


If we can't do "virtual workouts" because of the globalness of our ranks, perhaps for those interested in this, there could be a "Browncoat Timezone Virtual Workout." That is, if we have the numbers.

I'd recommend a daily log of what has/hasn't happened if only to keep this thread alive and on the main page. eg If you missed a morning workout and see this thread on the main page in the evening, it shouldn't be too late for a walk or a couple pushups. Something is better than nothing


As for my status, I just finished my "morning" workout. I could certainly tell that my "muscles" weren't exactly used to that



----
"We're in a giant car heading into a brick wall at 100 miles/hr and everybody's arguing about where they want to sit."
-David Suzuki

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Monday, March 20, 2006 9:30 AM

PERSEPHONE736


So, I just got a good half hour walk/jog in and for which i am very proud of myself. I like the idea of keeping track of weight/measurements. I don't plan on telling my weight and measurements but will tell you what I have lost. Another little tidbit of info- you can keep track of pounds, body fact percent with lots of different scales nowadays. My mom and i got one at bed, bath, and beyond fairly cheaply. This way, even if the pounds don't melt off you can tell if you are at least loosing body fat.

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Monday, March 20, 2006 9:53 AM

TIVO25


Quote:

Originally posted by UnregisteredCompanion:
How much weight have I lost? None. I have been doing the belly dance for almost 2 years, and the water aerobics/walking for one. Sure I feel better. Yes I have lost inches...BUT I WANT TO THROW THE SCALE THROUGH THE WINDOW!!!



An important thing to keep in mind is that the same physical amount of muscle weighs twice as much as fat. So you may indeed be losing fat, just not weight. Also important, when trying to burn fat, the more muscle you have, the more calories you burn during cardio. As for the metabolism, perhaps this will help you - part of my situation with the fast metabolism is that I've turned into a "grazer." I'm almost constantly eating. Not pigging out mind you, but just a little bit of snacking (maybe a handful of crackers) every half hour or so.

This actually fires up your metabolism. I don't know the exact science of it, but if you'll spread the food your eating in three meals out over the entire day it'll help with the metabolism.

Also, starving yourself has the opposite effect, it slows down your metabolism (not saying that you do, just some general advice). Your body goes into "starvation survival" mode, storing more fat since it doesn't know that there's a meal coming up at 6 ot 7 in the evening, and it's not sure when its going to get more food. So don't skip meals, it'll slow down your metabolism.

Additionally, when in this "survival" mode, when you start burning more calories than you have available, it'll get rid of muscle first, as that requires more energy than the fat, and therefor less efficient in "lean times."

But you don't have to take my word for it. I'm a big fan of doing research, so check out some nutrition books and fitness magazines. Chances are they'll have just the right "recipe" for you.

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Monday, March 20, 2006 10:35 AM

JAYNESBUNKWOMAN


I think this is a fantastic idea. Support groups are always helpful when trying to lose weight/get fit or any combination of the above.
In the past year, I have shed the equivalent of a large turkey and am working my way through the last part of a second one! The last part of the second turkey has been the toughest. (doesn't that just visualize the whole weight loss thing!)
I just started doing the: eat smart carbs, whole grains(limit servings per day, good fats, fish, whie meats, smaller servings. You can't toally deprive yourself of the good stuff, just severely limit the intake. Living be myself, i found the mantra - if I don't buy it, I won't eat it- to work! Iffin' ya got kids, then self disciplin, which i kinda suck at, comes into play. I also started going to the gym - I now do weights about twice a week and a class of tai-chi/yoga/pilates combination 4-5 x weekly. It's toning me up quite nicely, although i'm not yet at the Zoe with a bit a Kaylee kinda of form I would like. Not lookin' for a washboard stomach, just one I can maybe bare occasionly in a bikini! Since it's been a year since I started, I'm pretty sure that if I just keep at it, eventually i'll get there. it has much to do with lifestyle adjusments. i'll never be able toe at like I used to, otherwise I'll gain it all back.
ALl that to say that i will be joining this thread on a regualr basis- to share the pain of stiff muscles, the seemingly never ending plateau I'm on etc...Good luck to us in our goal of getting healthy, be it beefing up (for you tall skinny guys!) or trimming down.

Oh yeah - and following link can track progess etc for you (you don't have to actually count calories but it can track your weight, level physical fitness etc: http://www.fitday.com/
I'll be in Jaynes bunk

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Monday, March 20, 2006 3:02 PM

PERSEPHONE736


anybody got any good ideas for toning your legs?

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Monday, March 20, 2006 3:30 PM

WITCHOFTHEDOGS


Rolling in here as a newly converted Browncoat who made a resolution last night to take my health into my hands and do something about it.

I think the idea of just having a support group is a great one... I know there are a thousand times I've wanted to take better care of myself, but found it's easier to just wallow in the self-pity rather than stand up to and for myself.

With that out of the way, I have a question for anyone out there who might be able to help... I injured my back about a year ago (herniated disk) and am not able to do a lot of the basic weight work that is so good for everyone, so I'm going to start with cardio. Anyone have a similar situation? Any hints for good exercises?

Needless-to-say, I'm excited to meet all of you and excited to see that we're all getting motivated!

(And on a lesser note, I'm not normally this cheery, so take advantage of it while you can.)

::::::::::::::::::

Love keeps her in the air when she ought to fall down... tells you she's hurting before she keels.

Makes her a home.

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Monday, March 20, 2006 4:15 PM

JAYNESBUNKWOMAN


Quote:

Originally posted by Persephone736:
anybody got any good ideas for toning your legs?



Squats and lunges are killer toner for the legs and butt! just watch your form - whether doing the squats or the lunges, the knee stays in line with the ankle. If your knees are forward of your ankle(s), your going to injure your knees.
If you do alot of rep's at different pace thoughout, say one song worth of kjust squats..excellent workout for the legs. By different pace i mean count of two and count of two up for say 10 rep's, count of three down and one up for same amount of rep's, singles as in one count down one count up for say 12-16 rep's, a few very slow ones (count of four down and count of four up) thrown in , say a the end of your set of singles, and then repeat until the end of the song. After day one of these, your legs will be very stiff and muscles sore, but go again after one day of rest and they'll loosen up, A couple of weeks you should start some differnce. In bewteen building strength, I found it beneficial to do some cardio - nothing big, just treadmill fast walking or the ellipitcal trainer - i found it helped to keep the muscles loose, or at least loosen them up a bit. It's workin' for me so maybe for you!

I'll be in Jaynes bunk

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Monday, March 20, 2006 4:18 PM

PERSEPHONE736


Quote:

Originally posted by jaynesbunkwoman:
Quote:

Originally posted by Persephone736:
anybody got any good ideas for toning your legs?



Squats and lunges are killer toner for the legs and butt! just watch your form - whether doing the squats or the lunges, the knee stays in line with the ankle. If your knees are forward of your ankle(s), your going to injure your knees.



that's awesome, thanks!

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Monday, March 20, 2006 4:22 PM

JAYNESBUNKWOMAN


It's a tough workout make no mistake. I've been doin' them for about a year now (in a fitness class twice weekly) and it's still a vey tough track to get though!) But the payoff is a nice set of gams!

I'll be in Jaynes bunk

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Monday, March 20, 2006 9:49 PM

SIGMANUNKI


Quote:

Originally posted by witchofthedogs:

With that out of the way, I have a question for anyone out there who might be able to help... I injured my back about a year ago (herniated disk) and am not able to do a lot of the basic weight work that is so good for everyone, so I'm going to start with cardio. Anyone have a similar situation? Any hints for good exercises?




In all seriousness, I'd recommend consulting your doctor: medical conditions are nothing to play around with, especially when its with your back.

This ( http://familydoctor.org/341.xml) says you should do things to strengthen your back and stomach. Though you should consult your doctor.

That being said, I have had some back problems in the past and had a Cyropractor give me some exercises to strengthen my back and stomach.

There is of course stomach crunches. Though none of that twisting to include other muscles stuff. That'd probably be really bad for you. The rest I'm going to have to describe as I have no idea what they are called.

Lie on your side and lift your leg (keep it straight), hold for a few seconds and then lower. Repeat about a dozen times. Hippy goodness with this one.

Move your "upper" leg and lift the "lower" leg up, hold for a few seconds and lower. Repeat about a dozen times. Inner thigh workout.

With the above two, I don't lie in a straight line on the ground. I angle my legs a few degrees in front of me. Helps with balance

Lie on your stomach and lift your chest off the ground, hold for a few seconds and lower. Repeat...

Make sure that all movement is in straight lines and that no "wiggling" is going on in the movement. That "wiggling" could make the back twist in a bad way, and that'd be very bad for you.

There is also just simply walking, taking the stairs, etc. Though you should consult your doctor.

And remember, that "no pain, no gain" stuff is complete crap. Pain means your doing it wrong, or at least wrong for you. Stop immediately!

Also, because of your back, I'd recommend having someone within earshot when you're working out. And if that isn't possible, set the phone down nearby. You know, just in case you need some assistence.

Did I mention that you should consult your doctor?

Seriously though, consult your doctor. No-one here wants you to get hurt

----
"We're in a giant car heading into a brick wall at 100 miles/hr and everybody's arguing about where they want to sit."
-David Suzuki

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 2:55 AM

NUCLEARDAY


Oh what the hey, I've been telling myself I'm going to get in shape for many moons now, perhaps it's time to actually do something about it, huh?

Myself, I'm about 5'9" 180-190lbs (don't have a scale anywhere around here but it's likely a good guess.) I've had this gut since well... ever I suppose. My job is mostly manual labor at the moment, so I've got a decent enough amount of tone. I'm just looking to change my eating habits and get healthy before it starts turning into problems. (Love my after-dinner ice creams a little too much I think :)

Not looking for one of those quick-fix diets or anything, just need to start fixing myself some healthier meals. Figure if I'm eating right the rest will take care of itself. My trouble is that I mostly live on microwave meals and haven't been cooking for myself in quite some time. Need to look into varying my diet more, and laying off of the junk food so much. (But bwah! so much easier to pop a meal into the microwave when I get home than keeping an eye on the stove for half an hour :)

Anyways, good thread and good luck to everyone ;p

________________________________________________
You can take my hope when you pry it from my cold, dead fingers.

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 4:20 AM

GRIZWALD


Hey Nuke, how about if you buy some frozen stir-fry vegetable mixtures and some boneless, skinless chicken breast strips (also frozen)? - Stir-frying doesn't take much longer than microwaving and you'll have interesting, delicious food that is pretty good for you, too.

I especially like the stir-fry veggies that have lots of sugar-snap peas in them.

ETA: Most of those frozen veggie bags and chicken bags have ziplock closures, so you can just cook enough for yourself and put the rest back in the freezer.

____________________________________________________
They could not take the sky from them -
Our Big Damn Heroes made a film!
I'm gonna see Serenity then
go back the next morning and see it again.
Cuz no one at Fox knew this show had no equal
C'mon Universal, and greenlight the sequel!

Click on my profile for my Annoyingly Long List of Firefly Links.

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 4:31 AM

NUCLEARDAY


Quote:

Originally posted by grizwald:
Hey Nuke, how about if you buy some frozen stir-fry vegetable mixtures and some boneless, skinless chicken breast strips (also frozen)?



Oh yeah, I'll have to try that. I used to get those Banquet stir-fry meals but they ended up eating a hole in wallet after awhile ;p Hadn't thought of mixing up my own stuff. (Also a big fan of those LaChoy stir bi-packs, which are pretty healthy-seeming at least. Those I can get on the cheap since I work the grocery section of my supermarket.)

Actually, there's another useful and not-so-well-known tip for everyone. Most grocery stores have a section in back where they keep their damaged/outdated product for sorting. If you get in good with someone there or go at night when they're stocking: I have to either sell off or throw away the vast majority of it, anyways so I'm usually willing to make a deal to people looking to take it off my hands. (Most of it's just dented cans anyways. Where I get most of my wet catfood from these days.)

________________________________________________
You can take my hope when you pry it from my cold, dead fingers.

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 5:05 AM

BROWNCOAT1

May have been the losing side. Still not convinced it was the wrong one.


Okay, I am down for a browncoat fit group. I could use the support & would only be too happy to help support my fellow browncoats.

So, when do we start?

__________________________________________

"May have been the losing side. Still not convinced it was the wrong one."

Richmond, VA & surrounding area Firefly Fans:

http://tv.groups.yahoo.com/group/richmondbrowncoats/

http://www.richmondbrowncoats.org


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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 5:15 AM

UNREGISTEREDCOMPANION


The frozen stir-fry veggies really is a great idea. We do that here all the time. Our freezer is packed with different veggie blends. Wait for the grocery store to have them on sale and then stock up.

I also keep tubes of ground turkey on hand. It is cheaper and leaner than ground beef. You can make a family size load of stir fry for less than $3.

Another way to save money (and calories) is to make your own pasta in a big batch and freeze it in individual portions. Use the lean ground turkey instead of beef and whole wheat pasta (penne freezes well) instead of plain. For sauce, Huntz has some good stuff for around $1 a large can. Get the Chunky Vegetable style for extra healthy goodies. Eat some the day you cook it, put some in the fridge for the next day...anything else you freeze and pull out any time you don't feel like cooking. Takes about 15 minutes to nuke a frozen batch.

Commercial package food is expensive...and loaded with sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. Once in a while is no biggie, but the more meals you can make yourself the better. Check out this website for "semi-homemade" recipes. http://www.semihomemade.com/meals/index.htm

~~~~~
"Funny and sexy. You have no idea. And you never will."

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 5:19 AM

AZBROWNCOAT


So what if we declare a start date and then list an overall objctive such as:

Day 1 -
be active (walking, running, weights) for at least 30 minutes
write down what you eat and be comepletely honest (this worked wonders for me when I did it)
go to bed at a decent time (my doc said that getting the proper sleep works)

And so on for various days. But we musn't forget to have a day off occasionally to let ourselves rest. And the number one thing I have learned (and it was the hardest) if you slip one day just forget about it. Do not beat yourself up over it. It happens. Just make sure it doen't happen each day.

There are my two cents worth.

I totally love this idea and can't wait for it to get started.

***************************************************
You know, they tell ya to never hit a man with a closed fist, but it is, on occasion, hilarious.

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 5:19 AM

AZBROWNCOAT


So what if we declare a start date and then list an overall objctive such as:

Day 1 -
be active (walking, running, weights) for at least 30 minutes
write down what you eat and be comepletely honest (this worked wonders for me when I did it)
go to bed at a decent time (my doc said that getting the proper sleep works)

And so on for various days. But we musn't forget to have a day off occasionally to let ourselves rest. And the number one thing I have learned (and it was the hardest) if you slip one day just forget about it. Do not beat yourself up over it. It happens. Just make sure it doen't happen each day.

There are my two cents worth.

I totally love this idea and can't wait for it to get started.

***************************************************
You know, they tell ya to never hit a man with a closed fist, but it is, on occasion, hilarious.

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 8:16 AM

SIGMANUNKI


Quote:

Originally posted by BrownCoat1:

Okay, I am down for a browncoat fit group. I could use the support & would only be too happy to help support my fellow browncoats.

So, when do we start?




More and more people, shiny

I know Persephone736 and myself have already started. Just finished worked out (two days in a row. Only 3 left to meet my this week goal ). Later I go for a walk as well. Need to take back some books to the library (I know what you're thinking. But when your daily outting is to the coffee shop on the same block, these trips are exercise. *sigh*).

I'd say people just start as they come. Don't wait for there to be a community start date.

Make your own goals and do your best to meet them. Your body will love you for it

----
"We're in a giant car heading into a brick wall at 100 miles/hr and everybody's arguing about where they want to sit."
-David Suzuki

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 8:25 AM

SIGMANUNKI


@nuclearday:
Don't forget soups!

I found a meatball soup somewhere online (can't find the link, but I have it written down somewhere if you want me to post it or send it to you) that was very filling. Making them is great because it's basically, toss some stuff in a pot and wait a bit.

Then you could freeze portions and nuke or take out to melt and warm up in a pot. Personally I find that warming up in a pot tastes better. But, that is just IMO



----
"We're in a giant car heading into a brick wall at 100 miles/hr and everybody's arguing about where they want to sit."
-David Suzuki

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 8:37 AM

SIGMANUNKI


Quote:

Originally posted by AzBrowncoat:

Day 1 -
be active (walking, running, weights) for at least 30 minutes
write down what you eat and be comepletely honest (this worked wonders for me when I did it)
go to bed at a decent time (my doc said that getting the proper sleep works)




(2) and (3) are wonderful suggestions that I'd never thought of

But, I think that there is a slight problem with (1). What if someone is so out of shape that they can't be active for 30 minutes? Just saying because I don't want a Browncoat to see some requirements and think that they can't do it so they just do nothing.

IMO, it's best to keep these goals personal and extend the routine and make it more difficult as time goes on, as the body allows. We all have to start somewhere, and that somewhere will be different for all of us.


Quote:

Originally posted by AzBrowncoat:

But we musn't forget to have a day off occasionally to let ourselves rest.




Thanks for pointing this one out

Personally, I'm doing little workouts Mon-Fri and taking the weekends off. The little will hopefully be some more after some time passes


Quote:

Originally posted by AzBrowncoat:

And the number one thing I have learned (and it was the hardest) if you slip one day just forget about it. Do not beat yourself up over it. It happens. Just make sure it doen't happen each day.




Sage advice


Quote:

Originally posted by AzBrowncoat:

I totally love this idea and can't wait for it to get started.




Then start No time like the present

----
"We're in a giant car heading into a brick wall at 100 miles/hr and everybody's arguing about where they want to sit."
-David Suzuki

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 8:58 AM

MILFORD


This is a great idea. Glas you guys are so excited about it. I'm an avid exerciser (I run a LOT) but I'm always looking to help out other people where they need it.

Couple of simple suggestions:
Don't try to starve youself. The body uses food for energy. If you start cutting too many calories then you'll have nothing in your tank for when you want to be active. Eating smaller portions throughout the day is a great way to do it. My wife cooks for us a lot from Bill Phillips's Eating for Life which has tons of simple and tasty and HEALTY recipes for dieting without dieting, if you know what I mean. If you're interested in a whole fitness program, his book Body for Life is also good. It has lots of stuff in there about what and when to do weights and cardio and the like. It's better for those looking for Jayne style muscles, but the principles are pretty simple.

My only other suggestion is motivation. Find a goal and meet it. That means you can't set a goal too far away or you'll just get discouraged. Maybe start with bing able to run a mile without stopping, or swim ten laps without stopping (for the guy with the back issues, swimming is the BEST because it puts absolutely no stress on your joints). Then maybe once you reach that you could sign up for a 5K in your neighborhood or something. If there are other Browncoats in your area you could do it together. I think that's a smashing idea. If you're interested in something larger, John Bingham from Runner's World has a great book called Marathoning for Mortals that's helpful.

Remember though, if you skip a day or a meal, don't let it get you down. When I was training for a marathon I'd occasionally miss a day and either beat myself up to the point of inactivity or I'd try to punish myself the next time, which meant injury. The best piece of advice I got during that time was if I missed a day I should start the next one as if I hand't. Don't dwell on what you're not doing, focus on what you're doing well.

I'm by no means an expert, but if you have any questions or just need a pat on the back or a kick in the butt, send me a message. I'm happy to do what I can. I know it's tough, but I'm a firm believer that the only thing stopping you is you.

By the way, you who claim to be thin at 6'1" and 170-190, try 6'1" and 155. My mom like to joke that my arms are so long and thin they should have two elbows.

Leaning into the wind that used to carry me-Stavesacre

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 9:12 AM

PERSEPHONE736


Quote:

Originally posted by SigmaNunki:
Quote:

Originally posted by BrownCoat1:

Okay, I am down for a browncoat fit group. I could use the support & would only be too happy to help support my fellow browncoats.

So, when do we start?




More and more people, shiny

I know Persephone736 and myself have already started.

I'd say people just start as they come. Don't wait for there to be a community start date.

Make your own goals and do your best to meet them. Your body will love you for it

----
"We're in a giant car heading into a brick wall at 100 miles/hr and everybody's arguing about where they want to sit."
-David Suzuki



Right you are- I have started and am doing well so far. I agree- keep goals personal don't try to do more than you think you are capable of. I'm gonna try to exercise at least 30 minutes three times a week (time is more of an issue than anything else I think). I have also cut back on my eating and live by this- eat whatever you want but in small portions- nothing is off limits so long as you don't overindulge. For example, can't give up chocolate? I sure can't but have cut back seriously on the amount of it that I eat. Anyway, there's my advice for the day. I have really found that cutting back on portions helps- I don't do second portions anymore- what I get when I start eating is all I get. I've actually found that this isn't too hard to stick to either:) Good luck.

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 9:12 AM

UNREGISTEREDCOMPANION


Try 6' tall and 240.

I so want to break some of these skinny people in half right now. Grrrrrr....

At 200 lbs I am "skinny"...or what passes for it with my build. I have already lost 40 lbs, but this last 40 wont budge.

Damn hig metabolism stick people...@()*#&(*(&#*@!@!

Sorry about that! I am in quite a mood today!

~~~~~
"Funny and sexy. You have no idea. And you never will."

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 9:15 AM

MILFORD


Not a problem. I know these things can make you tense. Just try to relax, not all us skinny types are all bad. Who's going to crawl into the ventilation shafts after all manner of things if we're not around?

Leaning into the wind that used to carry me-Stavesacre

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 10:15 AM

AZBROWNCOAT


Quote:

Originally posted by SigmaNunki:


But, I think that there is a slight problem with (1). What if someone is so out of shape that they can't be active for 30 minutes? Just saying because I don't want a Browncoat to see some requirements and think that they can't do it so they just do nothing.



Aha...how does one define active? Well, what if we could say that being active could also include things that we wouldn't normally associate with physical activity. Such as vacuuming or sweeping or mopping or weeding or swinging or skipping. Do you do this every day? If not maybe it could be something to do to help you stay active. And if you ask my mom, she would say that anytime I clean my house it has to be a workout due to the mess. 'sides...we could also adapt the wording to so "Be active for a minimum of 5/10/whatever incriment".

All that was merely a suggestion because it sounded like some poeple wanted a little more structure than "Let's get in shape people!" (Sorry. I have watched too many episodes of Home Makeover)

Tonight I am going to ballet class for the first time so I am going to count that as my activity. Yeah, freaking River and that dang shot in Objects.

But I must say my main motivation right now is a pic of Jayne saying "I want you!" That is enough to get my lust going and urge me to workout. Pathetic, I know.




***************************************************
You know, they tell ya to never hit a man with a closed fist, but it is, on occasion, hilarious.

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 10:15 AM

AZBROWNCOAT


Quote:

Originally posted by SigmaNunki:


But, I think that there is a slight problem with (1). What if someone is so out of shape that they can't be active for 30 minutes? Just saying because I don't want a Browncoat to see some requirements and think that they can't do it so they just do nothing.



Aha...how does one define active? Well, what if we could say that being active could also include things that we wouldn't normally associate with physical activity. Such as vacuuming or sweeping or mopping or weeding or swinging or skipping. Do you do this every day? If not maybe it could be something to do to help you stay active. And if you ask my mom, she would say that anytime I clean my house it has to be a workout due to the mess. 'sides...we could also adapt the wording to so "Be active for a minimum of 5/10/whatever incriment".

All that was merely a suggestion because it sounded like some poeple wanted a little more structure than "Let's get in shape people!" (Sorry. I have watched too many episodes of Home Makeover)

Tonight I am going to ballet class for the first time so I am going to count that as my activity. Yeah, freaking River and that dang shot in Objects.

But I must say my main motivation right now is a pic of Jayne saying "I want you!" That is enough to get my lust going and urge me to workout. Pathetic, I know.




***************************************************
You know, they tell ya to never hit a man with a closed fist, but it is, on occasion, hilarious.

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 11:04 AM

SIGMANUNKI


Quote:

Originally posted by AzBrowncoat:

Aha...how does one define active?

...

Such as vacuuming or sweeping or mopping or weeding or swinging or skipping. Do you do this every day?




True enough


Quote:

Originally posted by AzBrowncoat:

Tonight I am going to ballet class for the first time so I am going to count that as my activity.




Super

Some more ideas. How about getting a freind and going to an x dance class. The x could be, as in your case ballet, or perhaps swing, or ballroom, or whatever

Or one could even go alone. Hell, one might just meet someone and get some more... more fun exercise

There is also always these night classes through the local community center that would have the dance classes and a lot of other stuff too! I once took a Tai Chi class through something like that. Plus they're not expensive, so people on a budget would probably still be able to afford it

These things also have the benefit of being scheduled. So, it's pretty much guarenteed regular exercise

Other ideas?


Also, Persephone736, maybe you could edit your original post to add in peoples exercise ideas. Just so there is a central, here's a list of things you can do, right on the first post

----
"We're in a giant car heading into a brick wall at 100 miles/hr and everybody's arguing about where they want to sit."
-David Suzuki

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 11:38 AM

AZBROWNCOAT


A great place to pick up free exercise tapes and DVD's is your local library. Sure you have to return them, but you don't have to buy them, plus it has built in diversity. I know sometimes I get tired of the same old yoga poses or the same old routines.

***************************************************
You know, they tell ya to never hit a man with a closed fist, but it is, on occasion, hilarious.

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Tuesday, March 21, 2006 11:38 AM

AZBROWNCOAT


A great place to pick up free exercise tapes and DVD's is your local library. Sure you have to return them, but you don't have to buy them, plus it has built in diversity. I know sometimes I get tired of the same old yoga poses or the same old routines.

***************************************************
You know, they tell ya to never hit a man with a closed fist, but it is, on occasion, hilarious.

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Wednesday, March 22, 2006 4:04 AM

BROWNCOAT1

May have been the losing side. Still not convinced it was the wrong one.


Okay, I will be hitting the gym this afternoon. About time I blew the dust off of the old membership & put it to use. Haven't been in like five weeks. Always some excuse or another. Something always demanding my attention or not feeling up to it.

I will be there today though.

I'll weigh in & let everyone know how it goes.

__________________________________________

"May have been the losing side. Still not convinced it was the wrong one."

Richmond, VA & surrounding area Firefly Fans:

http://tv.groups.yahoo.com/group/richmondbrowncoats/

http://www.richmondbrowncoats.org


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Wednesday, March 22, 2006 6:23 AM

PERSEPHONE736


owww. i did squats yesterday and am sore now. that'll teach me to exercise:) just kidding. i plan to break out the old pilates video this afternoon, won't that be entertaining!

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Wednesday, March 22, 2006 6:29 AM

AZBROWNCOAT


So I had to report in on my experiences with ballet. Apparently riding horses makes one's legs in good shape for ballet. Yeah, I was able to contort my legs fairly decently and the squats were somewhat easy...until I let go of the bar...eeek. And no pain this morning. Everyone said I would feel it, but nothing.

Now I need to find another gorram activity to help out.

***************************************************
You know, they tell ya to never hit a man with a closed fist, but it is, on occasion, hilarious.

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Wednesday, March 22, 2006 6:29 AM

AZBROWNCOAT


So I had to report in on my experiences with ballet. Apparently riding horses makes one's legs in good shape for ballet. Yeah, I was able to contort my legs fairly decently and the squats were somewhat easy...until I let go of the bar...eeek. And no pain this morning. Everyone said I would feel it, but nothing.

Now I need to find another gorram activity to help out.

***************************************************
You know, they tell ya to never hit a man with a closed fist, but it is, on occasion, hilarious.

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Wednesday, March 22, 2006 6:34 AM

TIVO25


Back in the saddle again!

Woo hoo!

Bless you all, this thread has been so encouraging.

Went for a good bike-ride yesterday (wow, am I out of shape, that simple little ride almost killed me!) Woke up at the crack of dawn this morning and rolled out of bed a good 24 minutes later. Did some light lifting just to get my body used to lifting again. Feelin' great right now.

Woo hoo!

Shiney.

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Wednesday, March 22, 2006 6:41 AM

TIVO25


Quote:

Originally posted by AzBrowncoat:
So I had to report in on my experiences with ballet. Apparently riding horses makes one's legs in good shape for ballet. Yeah, I was able to contort my legs fairly decently and the squats were somewhat easy...until I let go of the bar...eeek. And no pain this morning. Everyone said I would feel it, but nothing.

Now I need to find another gorram activity to help out.



Shiney! Ballet is such a wonderful art, so nice to watch.

As for another activity, may I recommend a Martial Arts of some sort? There are a variety of styles to pick from to suit your tastes and the flexibility, tone, and strength you gain in each activity will transfer over to help with the other activity. Not to mention being able to defend yourself should you find yourself in a dark alley with an evil operative some day = very good.

Just visit some classes and see what you like best. Tai Chi, though not as fighting oriented, would really go well with ballet.

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