GuyMontag

For me the general rule of thumb is, if the muscle is sore don't work it out again. That doesn't mean that if my biceps are sore that I can't run a few miles. Just remember that working out a muscle that is already sore doesn't do any good and could in fact cause damage. Also, I think taking one day off for your body to recuperate is a good idea but it's different for each person. I usually do one of two workout routines, either I do cardio and weights every other day ad nauseam, or I do cardio one day and then weights the next for six days and rest on the seventh just like the big man upstairs Gaither

The elliptical can be tough initially because you are using different muscles. However, in my experience the elliptical is a machine of diminishing returns. The more you use it the more acclimated your body gets and the less effective it becomes. The best way to avoid this is to keep an eye on your heart rate to make sure it stays elevated at optimum levels while you are on it. Also, the elliptical is fantastic for knee rehab and a great low-impact cardio workout. Just remember, sweating is not an indicator of fat burning or muscle building. For me, the general rule is, if my heart rate stays up then I'm burning calories and if I'm sore the next day then I'm building muscle. Good luck! Gaither

After I first got the lap band I did the gym thing for about a year so I had the basic movements down using free weights and machines. Once I got the resistance bands I kind of just started playing around with them trying to replicate the exercises I already knew. The particular bands that I purchased also came with a small brochure that gave some sample exercises. I'm sure there are also plenty of YouTube videos and other sources to find exercises as well. So far I am VERY pleased with my $30 purchase and the great thing is they all fit in one small bag that I can just pop in a drawer or the corner of my room!

For me personally, I am happiest when I am just tight enough not to be able to eat a sandwich or a piece of pizza. Anything over that is asking for trouble. Also, I generally only drink coffee in the morning and lunch is generally my first meal of the day. Don't worry if you are able to 'eat too much' one day because you never know and the very next day you may hardly be able to get down a protein shake. If I'm going to err on one side or the other it's going to be on the too loose side. I can live when I'm loose but when I'm too tight I am completely miserable. Remember, the band is a tool and should do maybe 80-90% of the work. Trying to make it do 100% of the work is like revving and engine into the red and keeping it there. Unfortunately, doing that usually makes something go KABOOM! and you don't want it to be your band.

Everything sounds okay. You may just be experiencing 'first bite' syndrome and then your band is loosening up. Try taking a small first bite, put your fork down, chew a ton, and wait a minute before you take your next bite.

I can only drink carbonated drinks over lots of ice. I also agree with what others say...drink slowly. I usually burp and know it's okay to drink again.

Is it just me or has chat been down since last Friday?