I'm losing weight with zero exercise (40lbs down in 4 months).

• For the record, I fully believe exercise is important for both physical and mental health. •

I'm doing CICO using MFP and have lost about 40lbs since starting in early August. For me to be successful, I have to completely separate my weight loss plan from exercise because I know myself well enough to know I can't rely on having the motivation to work out. I aim for 1200 calories and have been good about keeping close to that on average (I certainly have my share of bad days). My maintenance goal of 125lbs as a 5'4" tall, sedentary 32 year old woman will allow me about 1500 calories a day. My doctor is on board with this plan.

All that being said, I do have plans to start gradually exercising in the near future, which I will log accordingly and adjust my caloric intake. For me, exercise will be about being more physically fit and to help with some mild, manageable depression. I'm thinking long walks, my old climbing gym, and bike rides will be in my future.

I'm hoping this post might help people who are feeling overwhelmed with the idea of making a lot of lifestyle changes at once. Also, we're told all the time that weight loss has to include both diet and exercise, which isn't accurate and is a goal that doesn't work for everyone. Some people also have physical limitations that make it very hard to exercise in a way that burns enough calories.

I also like think about this process like l am making a permanent change that will last for the rest of my life, this way I don't get too hard on myself for those bad days or weeks because it will be negligible in the long run, but on the other side I don't allow myself to make too many allowances, because that's how I've gotten off-track in the past.

I admit this all takes a lot of willpower and self-control, but it is possible! Also, don't be afraid to seek out a professional to address any mental health concerns that might be related to food or weight loss. If you can't afford private pay or don't have insurance coverage, look in to employee assistance programs, sliding scale therapists or counseling programs at your local college (counseling students usually do practicums and provide therapy for a lot cheaper). Also look into your primary care doctor (or a psychiatrist if possible) if you think you might need medications to help.

Lastly, collagen peptides are supposed to help with loose skin, though it can be pricey and the one I use is 70 calories per serving. Still worth it though!

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