Letters

Shape, April, 2002

Home Work

I loved the at-home strength-training workout featured in "30-Minute Total-Body Workout" (December). This kind of workout makes it easy for people who can't afford gym memberships or feel too self-conscious to work out at a gym. Thanks for helping me get lean and healthy!

Katie Stygstra

Grand Haven, Mich.

Measured Success

As a patient awaiting gastric bypass surgery, I was pleased to read Richard Laliberte's article, "Desperate Measures" (January). Currently at 5 feet, 3 inches tall and 310 pounds, I'm physically unable to perform most of the workouts shown in the magazine, and yet I've read Shape for years. I know that someday I'll reap the full benefits of being a Shape reader and I'm looking forward to the day when I can enjoy all the wonderful workouts featured each month.

Julie Sergel

Warren, Mich.

I was inspired by Robin Williams, whose 115-pound weight-loss story was featured in "Desperate Measures." I, too, gained an excessive amount of weight during my first pregnancy. I tried everything possible to lose it, including two medically supervised diets. I even lost 95 pounds with fen-phen [a prescription weight-loss drug combination] but gained it all back with my second pregnancy. I am scheduled for gastric bypass surgery and I am looking forward to a life that includes freedom from morbid obesity.

Kai Kubota

Ventura, Calif.

Staying in Shape

I would like to commend Shape on a job well done. I have read many fitness magazines, but Shape does an excellent job giving accurate and factual information. I am a personal trainer and hate to see all other so-called fitness magazines handing out mythical and dangerous advice. Keep up the good work!

Rebecca Wiseman

Lexington, Ky.

YOU TOLD US

In January, we asked about your most important eat-right strategy. Here's what some of you told us:

* I plan my meals ahead of time. I buy a bag of chicken breasts, and thaw, grill and store them in the fridge. I'll also boil a dozen potatoes. When I'm hungry, I heat up my chicken and potatoes in the microwave and have a healthy dinner ready in minutes.

Tori Taylor-Wiese

Portage, Mich.

* I stock up on frozen fruits and vegetables and lowfat frozen entrees. With each meal, I add 1/2-1 cup of vegetables or mixed fruit with yogurt. By doing this, I end up reaching my goal of nine servings of fruits and vegetables in just two or three meals.

Lindsay Rodriguez

Lancaster, Calif.

* I allow myself one small treat a day, whether it's ice cream or chocolate. By allowing myself a treat, I don't feel like I'm on a diet.

Kristin Kimble

Concord, N.H.

* I post the USDA Food Guide Pyramid on my refrigerator and use it to make wise food choices. I pick whole grains, plus fruits and vegetables, which are high in nutrients and fiber.

Katja Meyer

State College, Penn.

* I carry healthful snacks so I won't make poor food choices. I also strive to keep healthful foods in my cupboards so I can prepare satisfying meals at home. Being prepared has helped me lose 75 pounds.

Alexis Singletary

Seattle