El Cubano Gordo & Friends

Clarifying the Bonus Points Rule....

2012-02-16T10:58:00.002-05:00

My apologies if any of my previous posts were misleading, but people interpreted Al's "bonus points" rule for ECG VI differently. Since there's been some question, we've got an official ruling: The 3 bonus points are ONE TIME ONLY. You're welcome to do as many races as you want during the competition, but you'll only get 3 bonus points ONCE.

Week 2 Results!

2012-02-16T09:10:00.002-05:00

Week 2 results are in.**

Congrats again to Chris Brand who remains the weight loss percentage leader. Though Erica Sorg is close behind with 3 bonus points and almost 2% weight loss so far!

**A note to anyone who doesn’t respond with weights--other than my Wednesday morning email, I won’t chase you down, so if I don’t have weights by Wednesday night, on Thursday I will report using your last weigh-in weight with an asterisk noting non-reporting for the week. This seems fair to me, but let me know if you have a problem with that--or, just email me your weights.

Real Food

2012-02-15T09:28:00.001-05:00

First of all, I don’t want anyone to think I am knocking a method that works for them. I’m just trying to present something that made a lot of sense to me when I saw it. This was years ago and I was watching an old Food Network show, whose title I can’t remember and that no longer exists, but it was about a chef who used to be morbidly obese and then she lost a ton of weight because she learned to make delicious low-calorie foods. So, this chef was visiting the home of a woman who was a chronic “dieter.” When they opened the woman’s fridge and freezer, all you could see were weight loss shakes and boxes of diet meals. There was nothing fresh to be seen. By contrast, the chef loaded the woman’s kitchen table with low-calorie fresh foods she’d made with relatively simple ingredients. The chef’s comment was, “You can’t eat out of a box or can forever. You’re going to have to eat real food if you want to be healthy for the rest of your life, so you might as well get comfortable with it.”

I had actually never been tempted by shakes or frozen diet meals, I’d never even tried them (Stouffer’s French Bread Pizzas clearly don’t count, but damn I loved those), but I realized that it’s something that a lot of people try or even rely on in their lives. Lean Cuisine, SlimFast, NutriSystem, Jenny Craig (side bar: if when you encounter me drunk, I do an awesome Jenny Craig impression, just ask Annie). Again, I’m not saying these things are bad, but it made so much sense to me that “real” food, not prepackaged meals and supplements, would always be my go-to. I’m also not one to opt for non-fat (low-fat is fine), but that’s another story.

There are a few real food items that are staples on my shopping list, including tomatoes, whole wheat pita, plain low-fat yogurt, baby carrots, eggs, lettuce, apples, 2% milk. What are your go-to food items in your house?

Colin Myrtetus 5K

2012-02-14T21:53:00.010-05:00

Steve & I were up bright and early on Saturday morning too, but I must say that the weather in Miami was WAY kinder than what you experienced.

This 5K was organized in memory of Colin Myrtetus, an Epiphany and Columbus Alumni who passed away suddenly last year at age 38.

The day was perfect for the event - cool & overcast. Steve has been battling a bad cold and so the morning of the 5K he made the wise decision to walk with me instead of run. He's still slightly upset about that.

I will say that for someone who has been pretty much sedentary for the last 4-5 months, I did pretty well, with an average 14:39 mile. But I was POOPED by the end of it. Somehow I convinced Steve to grab breakfast at McDonald's for us and the kids after the race (big ECG mistake) after which I proceeded to take a long nap. LOL

I am not looking forward to tomorrow's weigh in. I have been completely indulgent in my diet and Valentine's day was just another excuse to eat poorly. But, tomorrow is a new day!

Cupid's Chase 5K

2012-02-13T09:08:00.003-05:00

***I've tried everything, the finish line photo will only publish upside down. And that's NOT our actual finishing time--it's just when we took the photo****

I woke up at 6am on Saturday to frigid temperatures (23F) and gusty winds and snow--perfect weather for a 5K along the Hudson River.....

After warming ourselves with a healthy breakfast of steel cut oats and fresh ginger tea, Erica and I braved the snow to complete 3.2 miles with about 2000 other runners. Though the weather was miserable, we had a good time overall. Earning 3 bonus points wasn't bad either!

Mary and Steve--we hope your race was just as fun--would you blog about it as well?

For those interested in doing other races, I'll be scoping out some others in NYC. Erica is already aiming for the NYC Dualthon (2 mi run, 10 mi bike, 2 mi run). What races do you have planned?

Hope everyone had a good weekend!

Week 1 Results!

2012-02-09T08:30:00.005-05:00

The results are in, except for our one non-reporter....

Congrats to Chris Brand, weight loss percentage leader! He’s already down 3% which means he’s got 3 points so far. But don’t get complacent Chris—4 ECGers (myself, Erica, Steve, Mary)** have signed up for races this weekend, and each will be earning 3 bonus points!

**UPDATE: Chris and Kristi have signed up for the Disney Family 5K on February 25, so we'll all have a lot of catching up to do!

Half Portions

2012-02-08T12:46:00.003-05:00

No doubt, over the years, portion sizes have grown tremendously. For example:

* hamburgers expanded by 23%
* a plate of Mexican food got 27% bigger
* soft drinks increased by 52%
* snacks (potato chips, pretzels, crackers) grew 60%

We don’t always realize this, and sometimes, companies are kind enough to remind us (thank you, Kettle Brand’s “sharing size”).

In addition to a Workout Tracker, another tactic I used in last year’s ECG was the half-portion when eating out. No matter where I was, and unless I ordered something small like an appetizer as my main dish, I cut my meal in half and packed it up or shared it. I know it might seem like a waste when you spend money to go out and not eat all of it, but in the long-run, it really pays off. I actually never felt hungry when I was done. And because I’m an infamously fast eater (a terrible habit), it forced me to slow down and savor what I did have. I confess, since ECG V ended, so has this particular habit, but it’s one I’m ready to embrace again with ECG VI.

While at home, my measuring cups and spoons are always on hand for things like cereal (1 cup), salad dressing (2 tbs), trail mix (1/4 cup), rice (1/4 cup) and dinner servings (1-2 cups). This is another thing that doesn’t work for everyone, but it really helped me understand serving sizes.

Unlike Helen Gurley Brown, the skeletal editor of Cosmo who extolled the beauty of waifs and whose idea of a “sensuous meal” was “a scallop and a packet of Sweet N Low”) (shout out to Annie who did a killer impression of this ancient SNL skit), I believe in satisfying meals with more realistic portions.

Maybe 1/2 portions when dining out will help as you start week 2 of the competition?

Food Journals vs. Workout Trackers

2012-02-06T10:38:00.002-05:00

One method that lots of people who are trying to lose weight use is the food journal. I used to keep one for months at a time, adhering to the If you bite it, you must write it. mantra. But I hated those occasional, and sometimes frequent entries that read something like, “six pints of beer and a quesadilla” following a night out. I loathed writing that, even though it was true. But to me, it was obvious. I knew that was not a shining moment, so why did I need a permanent record of it? I mean, what would your food journal say about yesterday’s Super Bowl parties?

Actually, starting with last year’s ECG, I opted instead for what I call the “Workout Tracker.” There’s an app for that [for iPhone; for Android, though there are literally hundreds of others], but for me, it was a simple spreadsheet with every day of the year, and what I did for physical fitness on each day. That way, at the end of each week, I could see, whoops, I only worked out twice, I should go for a run right now! Or I could see that my 6 days of working out lead to a greater weight loss that week.

It showed the good things I was doing each week, my accomplishments, not my failures. To this day, even the act of entering my workouts into Excel feels like a small victory.

It’s different for everyone, but please don’t let the weekly weigh-ins be the only measure of your life for the next 12 weeks!

Head to the comments to share what works for you!

Official Starting Weights

2012-02-03T09:22:00.004-05:00

These are the official starting weights.

I'll email you each Wednesday to ask for your weights and the updated spreadsheet will be posted each Thursday.

Erica and I have signed up for the Cupid's 5K--anyone else signed up for a race?

Bring it.

2012-02-01T23:16:00.002-05:00

Don't want to intimidate anyone too much, too early in the competition... but still I thought that I should share this inspirational video of Steve and me "getting physical." (Not what you think! Hello...)

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Welcome back gordos and gordas!

2012-01-30T17:03:00.007-05:00

Welcome back gordos and gordas!

For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Sandy and I’ll be your ECG VI moderator for the next 12 weeks. I know that participation/commitment levels vary among the group, so hopefully my posts will motivate you to do your best, whatever that may be, throughout the competition.

Last year, I lost over 25lbs—almost 13% of my body--doing ECG, and thanks to continued workouts and making exercise a priority since last April, I’m close to my same weight and wearing the same size as I was when I finished ECG V.

You wouldn’t know it by looking at me, but I still workout 5-6 times per week and I run anywhere from 8-16 miles per week—I’m not saying this to brag, it’s to show how I’ve made fitness a priority and to show that age/job/whatever is no limitation for getting healthy. I’ve found the things that work best for me (thank you, Physique 57 DVDs) and I know where my pitfalls are (hello, binge drinking at The Blarney Cove!). Still, I’m feeling good physically and mentally, and that is priceless.

Please feel free to email me anything you want brought up on the blog, or even an achievement you want highlighted among the group. Let’s be here to support each other as we do what we can to improve our health and lives.

Sandy

P.S. For those in the NYC-area who want to start earning bonus points—how about one or both of these races? Walkers welcome!

Cupid’s Chase 5K in Manhattan (Hudson River Park at Charles Street) on Saturday, Feb 11. Start time 10am, entry $35. More details: http://www.active.com/5k-race/new-york-ny/cupids-chase-5k-run-manhattan-at-10am-2012

Valentine’s Day 5K in Prospect Park, Brooklyn on Sunday, Feb 12. Start time 10am, entry $21. More details: http://www.active.com/running/brooklyn-ny/valentines-5k-run-2012

2011-05-24T20:36:00.002-05:00

Another ECG has come to an end and a whole lot of pounds have been shed. Here are the final results. I'd like to give a special shout out to Sandy Gade, who was first overall for weight loss--an awesome 25.6 pounds! She was (closely) followed by Steven Lee, who lost 24.6 pounds, and Danny Diaz, who lost 20 pounds. I'd also like to acknowledge the Miami quartet of the three Diaz brothers and Ralph Rosado, whose team--Team 5--was tops in weight loss (68.8 pounds).

However, the winning team was determined by percentage of weight lost, and that award goes to Team 4 (Steven Lee, Ian Lee, Chris Brand and Ashley Ageeb), who lost 7.77% of their weight. Congrats, guys! You've got a nice check coming your way to splurge on a highly caloric evening out.

Please note there are two tabs on the Google doc. The second tab (labeled Sheet 3) is organized by teams.

Second to last week!

2011-05-17T11:52:00.004-05:00

While not everyone has provided me with updates this week, the biggest contenders have and there is now a NEW leader! Check it out.

2011-05-03T06:37:00.002-05:00

Here are updates for Week 14. For those who haven't given me an update lately, I've included their last reported weights. I hope everyone noticed the comment from Anonymous last week that says, "I look forward to winning." Anonymous, please present yourself. I hope you're not one of the non-reporters, because then I'll be really annoyed.

2011-04-12T05:58:00.001-05:00

Here are the stats for week 12. Still missing a few updates (Miami crew, that means you!).

2011-03-31T06:55:00.001-05:00

Finally, an update. I've posted everyone's latest reported weights--a few contestants are a little behind on their reporting...

More stats

2011-03-10T15:14:00.002-05:00

https://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=0AmGwP3Z4bY6VdG1NSFNjaDB0dFRfZUYyX0xfQ2ZyWnc&hl=en&authkey=CNXP2qUL

Bottom line

Miami > NYC
Guys > Girls

Week 7

2011-03-07T22:03:00.000-05:00

Last place doesn't feel good. I should know, I'm there.

Week 6

2011-03-01T21:45:00.002-05:00

Nice blog post, Chris (see below). That would certainly motivate me, and for the love of God if you've mailed that check get moving! Here are the results from week 6.

Alternative Forms of Motivation

2011-02-27T12:47:00.006-05:00

There is no doubt a variety of motivations at work among our various ECG competitors -- look better, feel better, get healthier, don't let teammates down, win the money! Here's a gym that provides a novel form of motivation (you pay more if you don't go!)... http://www.boston.com/business/articles/2011/01/24/gym_pact_bases_fees_on_members_ability_to_stick_to_their_workout_schedule/

Another interesting form of (negative) motivation: In an email response to the "pay more for not going to the gym" concept, someone wrote: "My sister once lost several dozen pounds after writing a large check to the David Duke campaign and giving the check to my brother with instructions to mail it if she didn't lose the weight by a set date. It worked."

Given I've been in last place in ECG and need some more motivation, I think I'll try this latter strategy. So: Annie - my check to Sarah Palin's presidential campaign is in the mail. If I do not weigh 190lbs or less by May 15, then please proceed with mailing it in. No turning back now!

Week 5

2011-02-22T13:37:00.003-05:00

Check out this week's results here. Notice there is a column with each person's team number too now (thanks, Greg D.), so you can assess your competition.

Also, in case you haven't noticed the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue is out now. I wouldn't use it as motivation, but in case you need a bathing suit for the triathlon, ladies...

Week 4. Let's do this.

2011-02-17T19:55:00.006-05:00

This was a weak week for most. Get in the zone, people. I got excuses such as steak dinner (Chris), or large popcorn at the movies (Dea), or discovering City Bakery hot chocolate is available in take home containers and having a day's worth of calories in one evening's margaritas (me). Remember, it's what you eat in a week, not a day. And the occasional splurge is a necessary indulgence, but Ben and Jerry's Everything But The is probably over doing it. Even if it's really, really, really good.

Here's where you can now track the El Cubanos:
https://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=0AibMsY-sIqNfdEZ6Zk1ZY243SlBhSW1JWFpINTlranc&hl=en&authkey=CMTm7oQM

Walk this way

2011-02-10T13:38:00.002-05:00

Hey fellow ECG'ers. thought i 'd let you in on a trick that's not quite working for me. Yet. Walking to/fro work each day. It's around 2 mi each way, from stuytown to times square, and bitter cold most of the time. Also trying to take the stairs up to and down from my apt on the 11th floor. Started this experiment on Monday, so we'll see how it works. Even if it doesn't help lose much weight, it could stave off dementia.

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/02/07/taking-your-brain-for-a-walk/?scp=2&sq=walking&st=cse

Week 3 Results

2011-02-10T08:50:00.001-05:00

Overall Results for Week 1 (MG takes First Place)

2011-02-02T12:10:00.000-05:00

El Cubano Gordo Weigh In Week 1

2011-02-02T12:00:00.001-05:00

A Slow Start...

2011-01-30T08:56:00.002-05:00

Me & my son on New Year's Eve

When I woke up this morning the first thing that crossed my mind was, “oh crap! I’m supposed to weigh in today.” I know this is the last thing that my team wants to hear and I am so sorry, guys! For whatever reason, even though I weighed in last Sunday and my husband sent our weights into Annie, it was sometime mid-week when it really hit me that it was “go-time”. And for whatever other reason(s) (client visit, stressful work week, class cocktail party, plain ol’ lack of motivation), I just did not get my rear in gear this week.

But now I am freaked out. The nice (and not so nice) aspect of this format for El Cubano Gordo is that when you have a bad week, there are 3 other people you are letting down. And I am definitely feeling the peer pressure this morning. It’s sort of like when you were in college and had a big paper to write and kept procrastinating until the day the paper was due… then you freaked out a bit, but got to work and ended up creating the best work of your college career. That’s the effect I am going for.

So since I didn’t lose anything this week, I am putting this commitment out there (so I will be 100% held accountable by the ECG competitors)… next week, my weigh in will make up 2 weeks worth of weight loss. (I have a number in mind but don’t want to give the competition too much info.)

So how did everyone else do this week???

2011-01-26T06:55:00.001-05:00

p.s. I've already been almost fired for my poor charting skills, so I promise to try to do better next week and make the info legible.

El Cubano Gordo V is officially underway!

2011-01-25T20:54:00.007-05:00

Good luck, teams!

January Weight Loss Update

2010-02-06T13:33:00.005-05:00

First, an apology to all competitors for taking so long to update the weight chart. When your mother-in-law finally asks you what's going on with that weight loss competition, it's time to get going.

What a difference a month makes. Just four weeks ago we started our yearly El Cubano challenge. At the beginning of the month, the group weighed 2,746 pounds. Since then, we've lost a respectable 58 pounds which is the equivalent of 2 Rosies. (Rosie Photo Below). YES, two little humans.

Now let the games begin. Steve owns the top position with a commanding 10 pound weight loss. Chris Bell's 8.6 pound loss gives him a second place ranking. The third position is held by Rosemary Bell (Rosie's Nana).

Could somebody please tell me?

2010-01-26T11:06:00.002-05:00

Where to find out the weights for the participants? On a lark, I came to elcubanogordo.com but they are not here. My fault I guess for not knowing.

I'm in the dark here people. Show me the light.

Like the premiere on Feb. 2, I am LOST!

T.
(not a loser last week, unfortunately)

Starting Weights for El Cubano Gordo IV

2010-01-05T11:34:00.008-05:00

We've got 16 contestants in the 2010 El Cubano Gordo which makes the starting pot $1,600. This year features former champs Steve Lee and Pete Meyers, who are back with plans to regain their former glory and physique.

Several competitors have a partner to work with: Husband-and-wife teams Steve and Mary Lee, Dea and Tom Hughes, and Chris and Kristi Brand will work together to shed the extra pounds.

Returning New Yorkers this year include Chris Bell, Colleen Soriano and Cathy Salazar, and they're joined by first-timer Rory O'Connor.

Ever-present contestants Al Muzaurieta and Frank Pena will once again throw their hats in the ring with hopes of coming out on top.

Rounding out our list of competitors are two women from Florida and Connecticut, who might have the work-out advantage due to climate and space.

The next three months will fly by, so let's get off to a good start. Good luck, everyone!

Open Invitation for El Cubano Gordo IV

2009-12-29T10:12:00.000-05:00

Hey Everyone, (please pass along to any friends who may want to participate)

As a former participant / observer, you are cordially invited to participate in the Fourth Annual El Cubano Gordo Championship. This year's contest features a new format. In addition to the weight loss competition, there will be a running challenge as a test of fitness, and a buy back feature that will allow all participants to earn back a percentage of their entry fee.

What is it?
A three-month-long weight loss and fitness contest to help you lose some of the extra weight you might have put on in 2009

When is it?
Start Date: January 1, 2010
End Date: April 3, 2010

Entry Fee:
$100.00

Rules of the El Cubano Gordo Contest:
1. Contestants report initial weight on January 1, 2009.
2. Contestants must report weight via email or text every Sunday.
3. Winner is determined by the following formula:

Percentage of Body Weight Lost + 3 points if a contestant completes a 1/2 marathon during the three month period.

Winner's Circle Gala and Weigh-In
This year's winner will be announced at a dinner celebration on April 3rd at 8pm

Buy Back
Contestants will receive 25% ($25) of their entry fee back for every 5% of body weight lost.

Prizes
1st Prize receives 75% of the purse
2nd Prize receives 25% of the purse

Please let me know if you will be participating.

Current Particpants
Steve Lee
Mary Lee
Al Muzaurieta
Millie Tonarely
Kristie Brand

Link to past winners
Year 3
http://elcubanogordo.blogspot.com/2009/04/and-winner-is.html

Year 2
http://elcubanogordo.blogspot.com/2008/05/who-is-new-el-cuban-gordo-pete-meyers.html

Year 1
http://elcubanogordo.blogspot.com/2007/08/el-cubano-gordo-winner.html

Joined Weight Watchers Online For Men

2009-06-08T09:21:00.004-05:00

This weekend Annie encouraged me to join Weight Watchers (again). I'm hopeful that tracking my consumption will help reduce the waist size and encourage activity. I weighed in today at 244 pounds.

Final El Cubano Gordo #s - Click to Enlarge

2009-04-29T09:26:00.002-05:00

And the winner is...

2009-04-28T08:42:00.009-05:00

Steve Lee has regained his title as the El Cubano Gordo champ.

After 120 days of working out (and running around with 5 kids) Steve pumped out 38 to-the-floor push ups and lost 20 pounds, generating 15.34 El Cubano Gordo points. His perseverance is a guide post and inspiration to all aspiring losers like us.

We should also raise our glasses to the other participants who lost a few and trained to push up perfection. Chris Brand lost 7 pounds and pumped out an amazing 58 push ups for a combined 12.77 El Cubano Gordo points. Angelique edged out Annie and came in third place, showing that even skinny people can place in the El Cubano Gordo contest. Angelique lost 3.2% of her body weight and completed 53 push ups. You can view her awesome effort by clicking here

Annie came in fourth after losing 6 pounds and completing 42 push ups. Pete Meyers, last year's winner, rounded out the top 5 with a 2 pound weight loss and 57 push ups (although we lack video evidence to support the feat).

Honorable mentions go out to Niza who lost 6 pounds and cranked out 12 push ups and to the other 8 contestants who didn't gain weight. While we didn't hit our goal numbers, the contest helped those of us on the pudgier side to avoid gaining even more.

I myself am already nostalgic for ECG3 and am ramping up my efforts to get fit. Until ECG4, stay healthy and congrats to everyone.

A Sample of Annie's Push Ups

2009-04-27T22:07:00.002-05:00

Cathy's Push Ups

2009-04-27T21:53:00.002-05:00

Steve's Push Ups

2009-04-25T10:46:00.003-05:00

Chris's Push Ups

2009-04-25T10:38:00.002-05:00

El Cubano Gordo Party, 4/25/09

2009-04-22T19:01:00.001-05:00

Note: you must RSVP to this invitation.

We dieted, we worked out.

Then we stopped dieting and stopped working out.

Let's celebrate the El Cubano Gordo competition* anyway! Please join us for a dinner celebration Saturday, April 25 at 8pm at

ESTANCIA
460 Greenwich Street near Watts Street

The menu is a prix fixe (menu below) and includes dinner, beer and wine, tax and tip for $50 a person.

Bring your appetite, your party hats, and your excuse for not losing weight. For those of you who did not participate in this weight-loss competition, bring your best sympathetic faces and nods for us losers. PLEASE RSVP to Annie (anniemuza@yahoo.com).

*The final day of the El Cubano Gordo challenge was supposed to include a weigh-in and push-up challenge. This still might happen depending on amount of beer/wine consumed (don't worry non-participants, you will not have to do these things.)

MENU:
PARA EMPEZAR family style

Terracotta shrimp sizzling in olive oil and garlic

Assorted grilled pizzas

ENTRADAS choose one

Rigatoni Bolognese with plum tomato sauce and aged Manchego cheese

Linguini with baby cockles, parsley, garlic, olive oil and white wine

Chicken Milanese lightly breaded and fried with tomato bruschetta and mashed potatoes

Bistecca Sandwich with melted mozzarella and chimichurri on baguette with side of fries

CHEF’S CHOICE SELECTION OF DESSERTS family style

Week 11.5 Update - Shame On Me!

2009-03-24T21:05:00.001-05:00

Eleven weeks have passed since the start of El Cubano Gordo, and together the 17 contestants have lost 68 pounds.

Four weeks remain and the field is still wide open. Steve commands a strong lead but his weight loss is grinding to a hault. Annie and Chris have taken a slow and steady approach, and could chip away at Steve's lead. Niza and Angelique round out the top five with a combined 9 pounds of weight loss.

C'mon. There are four weeks left and if you are really motivated you could lose 12 pounds.

I for one am finally motivated. What has me so inspired?

Shame and fear. The idea of organizing a weight-loss competition and then showing up at the celebratory party weighing exactly what I did when I started it, or worse a pound more, is just too pathetic.

El Cubano Gordo Tracker - March 22, 2009

2009-03-24T09:16:00.002-05:00

Fat Is Wack Tracker - March 15, 2009

2009-03-21T12:23:00.001-05:00

Return Of The King

2009-03-03T17:21:00.001-05:00

Hello Al and my fellow El Cubano Gordos –

Over the past several weeks I’ve been inundated – yes, inundated – by emails, phone calls, text messages, Twitter tweets and Facebook posts all asking the same question: “Pete, since you’re the reigning El Cubano Gordo Champion who so illustriously defeated – nay – thrashed the competition last year, how is it that you are currently near the bottom in current polls?”

Well, it is time to respond to my friends, competitors, former and future losers, and followers with a very simple answer: strategy.

That’s right. For the past 2 months I’ve been doing all I can to not pull too far ahead (i.e., “Pulling A Steve”) under the guise of friendly competition that seems open to all. Well the time has come to say enough. I hereby serve notice to all that my daily workout regimen has officially begun. This consists of 140 morning finger tip pushups (the final 75 which include a hand clap between reps), 5 mile run over my lunch break followed by a hearty lunch of 3 almonds wrapped in organic lettuce, and then a brisk walk with my wife and very short dachshund, Maude, whom just found out she has tapeworms (don’t worry, she’s fine and still does “the scooter” all over our carpet.)

So consider this your official notice. If there is anyone in the ranks who would like double up their personal wager, count me in. My pushup form is unstoppable and my bicep curls have already generated massive results.

Yours,

Pete

2009-03-03T15:40:00.001-05:00

Recipe of the Week, From Men's Health
Caprese Pasta Salad Using Shirataki
From: Michael White, Convivio Restaurant, NYC

Ingredients
1 lb of asparagus thinly sliced
8 oz shirataki noodles, rinsed and drained
3 large tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup green peas, cooked
1 cup diced fresh mozzarella
1/2 cup of basil
Juice of one lemon
1/3 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and Pepper to taste

1. Cook asparagus in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes. Remove the slides with a slotted spoon, drop them into the ice water and thend rain.

2. Place the noodles in the pot of boiling water for 30 seconds to warm them. Then drain the noodles and put them in a large bowl. Add the asparagus and the remaining ingredients - the tomatoes, green peas, mozzarella, basil, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt and pepper - and toss together.

Per Serving: 386 calories, 15 grams of protein, 12 g carbs, 31 g fat, 7 g fiber.

Boo, Sadly, Sigh, Wow

2009-03-03T15:17:00.002-05:00

Boo, Sadly, Sigh, Wow are all adjectives we used to describe our weight gains last week.

After all, the truth can hurt, but our performance last week may be the kick in the pants we need to create fitness and diet plans that generate long lasting weight loss.

Good luck to everyone as we try to put together a solid 7 weeks of dieting before our meeting in NYC.

Falling off the Wagon - Trying to find Motivation

2009-03-01T10:56:00.005-05:00

I've been hoping that no one has been paying much attention to my weigh ins. I started strong, but at a very specific point in time, I completely fell off the wagon and haven't been able to get back since. I can tell you the exact day and time it happened. A group from work was taking my brother out for lunch on his birthday and invited me to come along (1/30/09). They went to a pizza joint. Sure there were salads on the menu but they were pricey (that's my excuse) and I just couldn't say no to a $4.99 lunch special for 2 slices of pizza AND a drink! What a deal! Literally, after that day of "cheating" whatever had gone "click" in my brain to get me motivated, just as quickly "clicked" off and I haven't been able to figure out how to turn it back on ever since.

Which brings me to the question that I've been trying to figure out - what can motivate me to lose weight? In November I had my 20 year elementary school reunion. I knew about it for months. Was it enough motivation to make me want to give up pancakes and start working out? No. I only fit in about 25% of the clothes in my closet. You would think that would motivate me. In February, my nephew got married and everyone wanted to look fantastic for the wedding. Was that enough? Nope. I'm part of this awesome competition and my husband is the most competitive person ever and expects me to do well. Enough? No. I have five kids and want to be a healthy (and attractive) super mom who can keep up with them and not feel all jiggly when we dance around the room. Sounds motivating, right?

Well, I thought for sure when Lent started that if nothing else could motivate me, perhaps a promise to GOD would get me out of this carb-loving, couch potato mode. I told Steve on Tuesday, "it's FAT TUESDAY, hon! I can eat whatever I want so please don't lecture me because tomorrow, I am taking this weight loss thing seriously. I am making a promise to GOD." Surely this would be my motivation to 'behave'.

I didn't even make it to lunch. (I was having a stressful day at work and resorted to my ultimate "comfort" lunch - a grilled cheese, fries and sunkist.)

So here I am on Sunday. Still trying to find my motivation. Perhaps a new month will mean a new beginning for me. (But why start on a Sunday, I'll wait until tomorrow. haha)

Tour De Pants

2009-02-25T17:20:00.004-05:00

We all know Jared as the pitch man who lost 245 lbs eating six inch subs. He is an inspiration to overweight people all over the globe. Because of Jared, the six inch turkey sub without cheese and mayo is to dieters what Communion is to Catholics...a daily staple for the devout.

Every time his face appears on an ad sales spike. Since Subway first contracted Jared, sales have doubled to $8.2 billion dollars a year. For the Jared Lovers in the El Cubano Gordo contest I present the Pants Game.

Tom is Rope-a-Doping, Is Steve the Dope?

2009-02-25T10:38:00.006-05:00

Re: I'm mad at you
Wednesday, February 25, 2009 10:29 From:"Hughes, Thomas J"

Annie, take it easy, haven't you heard of the rope-a-dope strategy? I'm confident I speak for al and chris when saying that we've taken steve's best punches, now he's tired and we're going to work. You don't win a marathon in the first 13 miles. Now that it's ash wed, I say its time to begin the serious physical deprivation, 40 days in a desert. With no dessert. Then we'll get our just deserts.

From: Annie Muzaurieta To: Al Muzaurieta ; Christopher O Bell ; Hughes, Thomas J (NYC) Sent: Tue Feb 24 12:02:06 2009Subject: I'm mad at you

Seriously--all three of you should be ashamed. Steve has 5 kids and has lost 17 pounds. ANgelique started at 119 (!!!!!) and has lost 4 pounds. HELLO, people?!

If the President can find the time...

2009-02-25T08:44:00.002-05:00

Steve has five kids and has lost 17 pounds, Mary is the mother of that brood and has dropped 6, and Angelique has four children and is near the top of the weight-loss list. Not having time to work out can no longer be an excuse for the rest of us.

Seriously, guys. I don't want to name any names (self, Al), especially since I know some of you are crazy busy at work (Chris), but our President, the leader of the free world, who is dealing with issues like the economic crisis and Rush Limbaugh, finds the time to work out every morning. Let's make like the Pres and get fit (but don't smoke).

How about 20 minutes? You don't have 20 minutes in a given day? If you cut out a coffee break or one beer after work, you'd save some calories and fit in a workout.

The New York Sports Club has machines set up so that you can squeeze in a full-body workout that takes 22 minutes to complete.

I should've just addressed this to myself.

10 Reasons to work your body

2009-02-24T15:04:00.003-05:00

10 reasons to work your body

The numbers are shocking. Just three out 10 American adults are active enough to stay healthy and fit. Nearly four out of 10 admit they aren’t active at all, despite reams of research proving that exercise is a powerful preventive, and sometimes an antidote, for disability and illness. Which side of this divide are you standing on—and why?

Regular physical activity makes an enormous difference to the quality and length of your life, a fact underscored by hundreds of solid studies. In a nutshell, exercise does the following:

Lessens the likelihood of getting heart disease, the No. 1 killer of Americans. How? Exercising regularly may bump up the number of blood vessels feeding the heart, help prevent plaque buildup by striking a healthier balance of blood lipids (HDL, LDL, and triglycerides), and help arteries retain resilience despite the effects of aging. Even if you already have heart disease, exercise lowers your chances of dying from it.

Lowers blood pressure, a boon for many body systems. Long-term hypertension (high blood pressure) doubles or triples the odds of developing heart failure and helps pave the path to other kinds of heart disease, stroke, aortic aneurysm, and kidney disease or failure.

Helps prevent diabetes by paring off excess weight, modestly lowering blood sugar levels, and boosting sensitivity to insulin so that your body needs less of it. If you have diabetes, exercise helps control blood sugar.

Reduces risk for developing cancers of the colon, breast, endometrium (uterine lining), and prostate. By helping you attain a healthy weight, exercise also lessens your risk for other cancers in which obesity is a factor.

Helps shore up bones, which reach peak density and strength during the first three decades of life. Over time, bones become lacier and weaker as density slips away. When combined with calcium, vitamin D, and bone-saving medications if necessary, weight-bearing exercise like walking, running, and strength training helps ward off bone loss. And balance-enhancing activities, including tai chi and yoga, help prevent falls that may end in fractures.

Helps protect joints by easing swelling, pain, and fatigue and by keeping cartilage healthy. Strong muscles support joints and lighten the load upon them. Activities that boost flexibility, such as stretching, yoga, and tai chi, extend range of motion.

May limit and even reverse knee problems by helping to control weight—a big deal, since for every step taken, each additional pound of body weight translates to four additional pounds of load on the knee, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

Lifts spirits by releasing mood-elevating hormones, relieving stress, and promoting a sense of well-being. In some studies, exercising regularly has helped ease mild to moderate depression as effectively as medications; combining exercise with medications, therapy, and social engagement is even better.

May boost your ability to fend off infection, as shown in three randomized trials of women who walked briskly 35 to 45 minutes a day, five days a week for 12 to 15 weeks, and experienced half the cold symptoms of a sedentary group. Additional research shows exercise prompts a modest, short-term upswing in natural killer cells and white blood cells, which help squelch infection.

Adds years to your life. In the long-running Framingham Heart Study, moderate activity tacked on 1.3 years of life for men and 1.5 years of life for women versus low activity. Raising the bar to high activity added 3.7 years for men and 3.5 years for women. Even current couch potatoes can’t wiggle out of this. A separate long-term study of 10,000 men ages 20 to 82, who were examined and given two fitness tests at five-year intervals, found those who made the effort to shift status from unfit to fit cut their likelihood of dying by 44% compared with those who stayed sedentary.

Reprinted from Workout Workbook: 9 complete workouts to help you get fit and healthy, a Special Health Report from Harvard Medical School, Copyright © 2009 by Harvard University. All rights reserved.

Fat Is Wack Tracker - Week 7

2009-02-24T11:36:00.002-05:00

Two Fitness Websites

2009-02-24T10:00:00.000-05:00

Two Helpful Fitness Websites for Fat Is Wackers to Check Out

1. American Council on Exercise
www.acefitness.org

Health and fitness section offers illustrated exercise directions, answers to common fitness questions and healthy recipes

2. Fitness Online
www.fitnessonline.com
Allows you to calculate your BMI, ideal weight, caloried burned and more at this fitness site.

New App for iphone enabled FIWers

2009-02-20T15:42:00.004-05:00

The Loseit iphone App allows you to set goals and establish a daily calorie budget that enables you to meet them. Stay on track each day by recording your food and exercise and staying within your budget.

Enter food and exercise easily using a searchable database. Quickly re-enter foods and meals you've had in the past.

Lose It! is the most complete and streamlined weight loss application available for the iPhone.

Now available at the app store...

5 Week Weight Loss Update

2009-02-11T14:35:00.002-05:00

Steve and Mary continue to occupy the top spots but their lead shrinkes each week as they slow down. Competitors like Angelique and Chris Brand made strong moves this week losing 3 pounds each. Hopefully, with the Super Bowl behind us and some Spring weather approaching we can kick our weight loss efforts into gear for the last 2 months.

A-FRAUD

2009-02-07T18:34:00.001-05:00

Didn't Alex Rodriguez go to Columbus for a year? How can we be sure that all ECG participants are on the up and up? I propose random drug testing (for diet aids and steroids only...).

El Cubano Gordo: Trend Setter?

2009-02-05T14:46:00.003-05:00

There is an article in today's New York Times titled, "Dieting? Put Your Money Where Your Fat Is." It chronicles the trend in weight-loss contests among friends or coworkers where money is involved as a motivator for participants.

After reading about Samwoo Ee's diet betting and sites such as Stickk.com, I was sure I'd see the URL ElCubanoGordo.com. Alas, the leader of the pack wasn't mentioned.

One tactic we've yet to include is getting enemies involved in the contest. StickK.com, which helps people commit to their goals (and which Chris Bell wrote about here), lets you designate winnings to a foe or anti-charity, the article says. The Web site states, “Wouldn’t it just kill you to hand over your hard-earned money to someone you can’t stand?”

I'm still motivated. It hurts to hand over that cash to a friend too.

January Round Up

2009-02-04T11:25:00.004-05:00

January Champions
Congratulations to everyone for completing the first leg of the El Cubano Gordo Challenge. The Lee family walks away with the January championship after losing a combined 26.7 pounds. That is a tremendous accomplishment considering they are the proud new parents of eight month old twins. Chris Brand and father daughter combo Bobby and Niza round out the the top five.

70 days remain, so if you are off to a slow start there is still plenty of time to create a plan and shed the extra 10 or 15 pounds you added to the gut in 2008.

Chicken with Mint Raita from Weight Watchers

2009-01-28T21:48:00.007-05:00

Yes, Men Are Allowed to Buy Weight Watchers the Magazine
Over the weekend I picked up the January issue of Weight Watchers magazine. The cover reads: Budget Dinners and Do-Ahead Meals and 42 Brand-New Recipes. Budget, Do-Ahead and Lose Weight all sounded like good options to this new parent.

Chicken with Mint Raita, cooked on 1/28/09, Pictured Above
I opened the magazine this morning and picked out a recipe from the superfast recipe section. Chicken with Mint Raita. Total prep and cook time, 15 minutes. On my way home tonight I picked up the required mint leaves, romaine lettuce, chicken breasts and fat-free Greek yogurt. I came home to take over Rosie duties and Annie began to cook. 20 minutes later, dinner was ready.

Santa Julia, Torrontes Organica, 2008.

Pairing Weight Watchers Recipe with Wine
To up the ante, I wanted to pair our diet food with a wine. I popped into Bottlerocket, my favorite local wine store, and asked their wine expert for an affordable wine to drink with our planned meal. She pointed me to a $12.00 bottle of Argentinian wine named Santa Julia, Organica. When you buy a wine at Bottlerocket the clerk prints out tasting notes. Our notes read: The highly aromatic Torrontes grape resembles a blend of Reisling, Viognier, Albarino and Gewurztraminer. A huge taste sensation with intense aromas of jasmine rose petals, orange blossoms and peaches. Amen!

It was the perfect wine for a perfect pre-Lost dinner. Now, if only watching TV burned calories.

Chicken with Mint Raita Recipe
1 garlic clove
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup fat free Greek Yogurt
1/2 small chopped cucumber
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
1 tablespoon red-wine vinegar
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 pound of chicken
1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon of curry powder or garam masala
12 hearts of romaine lettuce

1. To make the raita, chop the garlic and salt until a paste forms. Transfer to a small bowl and stir in the yogurt, cucumber, mint, vinegar and pepper.

2. To make the chicken, heat the oil in a non stick skillet over high heat. Add the chicken, garam masala or curry powder and salt. Cook for about 5 minutes or until chicken is ready, stirring constantly.

3. Divide the lettuce up evenly among the 4 plates. Top evenly with the chicken and serve with a small serving of the raita.

Nutrition: 3-4 chicken pieces with 3 lettuce leaves and 1/2 cup of Raita = 197 calories, 5 grams of fat, 1 gram of saturated fat, 0 grams of trans fat. 70 mg of cholesterol, 702 mg of sodium, 7 carb, 1 gram of fiber, 29 grams of protein. Points Value: 4

“Is it Bacon Day?” - Homer Simpson

2009-01-28T13:02:00.008-05:00

Sorry my first post this year isn't a healthy one, but I couldn't resist. For those of you who love bacon, sausage, and bbq... behold your new Holy Grail: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/28/dining/28bacon.html?_r=1&8dpc.

As I haven't yet begun my Cubano Gordo efforts in earnest, I think I'll hold off on the carrot sticks for a few more days so I can make room for one of these Bacon Explosions, perhaps for the Super Bowl. Who's in?

Starbucks and Dunkin Coffee Calories

2009-01-28T11:05:00.009-05:00

In New York City, chains with 15 or more outlets are required to post calorie counts for food next to price.

The city believes that outing this information will help NYC residents select lower calorie meals and improve public health.

I've started to obsess over the calorie counts at Starbucks and Dunkin. Plain coffee is pretty much fat and calorie free.

But coffee drinks that go beyond the drip at Starbucks and Dunkin use whole milk and sugary syrups which often have as many calories as a small meal. Starbucks recently switched to 2% milk in its standard espresso based beverages. But that doesn't mean the drinks are low in fat or calories.

2 percent milk has only about 1/3 less fat than whole milk. So a grande latte made with 2% milk has 190 calories and 7 grams of fat vs. 220 calories and 11 grams of fat when made with whole milk. And a grande White Chocolate Mocha with 2% milk has 400 calories and 11 grams of fat.

To save on the Starbucks and Dunkin calories, El Cubano Gordos can request non fat or 1% milk and order the smaller size. That same grande latte with nonfat milk has 130 calories and no fat, a cappuccino, only 80 calories.

Or just skip the Starbucks latte entirely and switch to water. You'll save the $3 bucks a day and 200 calories. Over a one year period just by skipping your latte you'll lose 9.7 pounds on the waist and save $1,095 dollars.

Week 4 Update - Steve and Mary Take the Lead

2009-01-26T16:30:00.000-05:00

Week 4 Update - Frank Finishes the ING Marathon

2009-01-26T16:19:00.007-05:00

Steve set a commanding pace this week with a five-pound weight loss. He credits a low-carb diet plus a few games of lunch-time basketball as his keys to success. Again he proves that we shouldn't count out the 2007 champion.

Frank Pena came in a close second this week with a four-pound weight loss. Frankie achieved a major fitness milestone this weekend by finishing the ING Miami Marathon in 5 hours and raising $1,800 for Leukemia research as a member of a Team in Training.

Honorable Mentions: Alejandra / Niza lost 1.5 pounds, Chris -1.2 lbs, Annie -.5lb, Colleen -.5lb, Cathy -.2 lb

Um Really:
Chris Brand +1.2

Mother's Milk for Sale

2009-01-26T12:58:00.002-05:00

While not on the Hooter's Menu yet one enterprising swiss restaurantur in the exclusive Winterthur resort will improve his menu with local specialities such as meat stew and various soups and sauces containing at least 75 per cent of mother's milk.

"We have all been raised on it. Why should we not include it into our diet?" Hans Locher, who has become Switzerland most controversial restaurant owner, said.

Mr Locher attracted the attention of the leading media of the German-speaking world this week after he posted ads looking for women donors, who will receive just over three pounds for 14 ounces of their milk.

He said: "I first experimented with breast milk when my daughter was born.

"One can cook really delicious things with it. However, it always needs to be mixed with a bit of whipped cream, in order to keep the consistency."

The food control authority in Switzerland was initially confused by the apparent loophole in local legislation regulating the use of human milk and it was not clear whether Mr Locher could actually be banned from serving his specialities.

"Humans as producers of milk are simply not envisaged in the legislation.

"They are not on the list of approved species such as cows and sheep, but they are also not on the list of the banned species such as apes and primates," Rolf Etter of the Zurich food control laboratory said.

98, 99 and 100!!

2009-01-25T12:09:00.005-05:00

Hi everyone,
My name is Steven Lee and I was the first ever El Cubano Gordo winner. It is crazy how things can change in 2 years. For those that don't know me, I have 5 kids. 4 girls and 1 boy. After winning the first competition I did really good for a long time. I was at a weight that I was very happy with, but then along came the twins. Once they were born, everything changed. In 6 short months I gained over 30 lbs!! It is amazing how easy it is to do. I went from working out twice a day at the very least to barely working out at all. I went from having no fast foods or desserts to only eating fast foods and some how finding yummy ice cream, cakes and cookies far too often sitting in front of me.

But I am back. I am super competitive and this is just the motivation I need to get back. It is still tough but you have to find time. Good luck everyone and I hope to see a lot less of you in the next couple of months.

Now let me get back to my push ups!!

Quick tip

2009-01-24T09:58:00.006-05:00

If you find yourself with an out-of-towner for a few days, you don't necessarily have to eat these creme brulee doughnuts, these bialys, these pistachio cupcakes, these burgers, these chocolate almond criossants and macarons (pictured left), and this roasted lamb pizza in a three-day span to be a good host. You might want to cut out a pastry or two to avoid feeling like a sugar-coated whale.

Baby weight

2009-01-19T18:02:00.004-05:00

I've lost a pound since the start of the competition and am down to 142.5. I think that's mainly due to the exercise I got yesterday cleaning out my closet. Frightening!

Anyway, I'm a new mom nursing a seven-week old (look at that hungry baby on the left!). Experts say nursing a baby burns calories and helps the post-pregnancy weight come off. (Unfair advantage? Sorry, guys). It's got to be true since I have actually found myself self-consciously exclaiming to waitresses, "Yeah, um, you'd be amazed how much you can eat when you're nursing a baby!" as I order yet more food.

It's also probably true since the first 28 baby pounds (uh-huh) came off pretty quickly. But I'm still carrying around a 12-pound souvenir from those nine months that seems to like me a lot.

Honestly, I'm not too concerned about losing weight right now. I'm more interested in getting fit again. But there are diet changes to be made. Other moms have told me how much they were able to eat while nursing, and then they stopped nursing but didn't stop eating. I don't want to do that.

So I've got to kick some of the bad, unnecessary, certainly-not-contributing-any-antibodies-to-my-breast-milk habits now. White chocolate mochas in the afternoon? Cheese almond danish from Pain Quotidien soon after breakfast? A chocolate-covered marshmallow cup after dinner? That means you.

Can we keep it off?

2009-01-18T22:35:00.009-05:00

This week, I turned on Larry King and saw Erick Chopin, talking about the 122 pounds he gained back after winning last season's Biggest Loser. He now weighs almost 300 pounds--again.

A bit shocked, I put together a spread sheet that tracks El Cubano Gordo participant weight loss over the years. The data doesn't lie. Many of us simply regress back to our original weights.

Tom has suggested that we include a claw back provision to encourage long term weight loss. While I hate the constant battle with weight, I wonder, does the contest prevent year over year gains. If El Cubano Gordo didn't exist would I weigh 300 pounds? Scary thoughts, but ones worth considering as we approach the end of January and resolution motivation begins to slow.

There's Something About Mary

2009-01-18T18:25:00.011-05:00

Welcome back everyone! After several months of chowing down on holiday feasts of turkey, stuffing and pies we are back and more committed than ever to losing weight.The new El Cubano Gordo contest began on January 1 with 16 participants. After 17 days, many congratulations to Mary Lee from Miami who lost 9.2 lbs in the first 17 days of competition. Good luck to everyone this week!

Weight Watchers Snack Bars are like Crack...But Healthy

2009-01-18T10:08:00.004-05:00

First off, contgratulations Mary for the weight loss and also, you know, for being alive to tell us your story. Hopping on the self report train, I'd like to report that I've lost 4.5 lbs since Jan 1st! This is mainly due to Weight Watchers snack bars. Though I don't actually go to weight watchers meetings, there's one held 2 blocks away from my work - so I weasled my way in just to buy their snack products. The chocolate caramel 1 point bars are like a little bite of heaven, and the banana nut bars (2 pts) surprised me as a sleeper hit. Good options for sweet cravings, which are what typically get me in trouble. Beware though: they can be addictive.

The Lee Secret Weapon

2009-01-17T14:49:00.002-05:00

I will follow up Tom's self report with a self report of my own. I weighed in a few minutes ago at 185! (That's almost a 10 lb. loss since the start of the competition. Read it and weep, fellow competitors!)

But I must admit that I have not prevailed over fat completely on my own. I have had a little help from my "friends" - namely a stomach virus and the flu since the competition started. Yeah! These "24 hour bugs" should be bottled up and sold! (along with a family size pack of Charmin and a small bucket to keep by the bed.)

So yes, there is a bright side to everything. In the past week I've been to the pediatrician twice (called at least 5 times,) been to the pharmacy for 4 different prescriptions, went one time to my own doctor, missed 3 days of work, been thrown up on & worshiped the porcelain goddess myself, been pooped on & have read 2 Shape magazines cover to cover on the toilet, been coughed on & have coughed a lot, have done approximately 25 loads of laundry, and there are still 2 kids left who have not yet been affected... good thing it's a long weekend. But after all is said and done, the most important thing is I LOST 10 LBS!

Self report

2009-01-16T13:02:00.000-05:00

my weight from sunday - 191, down from 193.
pushups. 50

21

2009-01-07T13:13:00.000-05:00

Ok, I'm just putting a number out there, but I think 21 wins it. 12% of body weight and 9 points for pushups (60*.15).

Egg Salad Sandwich - From Men's Health

2009-01-03T11:00:00.000-05:00

It can be hard to find healthy sources of protein that don't require grilling or expensive cuts of meat. Below is an egg salad recipe I used during the first two contests that is delicious and easy to make. It's lower in fat than the usual egg salad because it relies more on egg whites and fat free sour cream instead of yolks and mayo.

19 grams of protein per serving. Makes 2 servings.

2 hard boiled eggs

4 hard boiled egg whites

2 Tbsp fat-free sour cream

1 Tbsp chipotle mustard

2 Tbsp finely chopped onion

1/2 Tsp dried dill

dash of ground pepper

4 slices of whole-grain bread, toasted

1 (1.5 oz) seedless raisins

1. In a bowl, mash the eggs and egg whites into small pieces with a potato masher. Stir in sour cream, mustard and onion unti well mixed.

2. Add the dill and pepper

3. Spread on toast, serve wtih raisins.

Pound For Pound Challenge

2009-01-02T18:21:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,
Not sure if I am glad to be back in the contest, but I am back. I just thought since we are all starting right now we should sign up for the "Pound for Pound Challenge" . For every we pound we lose they donate 10¢ to Feeding America.

Well good luck everyone. I am late for a date with an elliptical machine.

Steve, ECG I Champion.

2009 El Cubano Gordo Contestants and Rules

2009-01-01T11:57:00.000-05:00

What is it?
A four-month-long weight loss and fitness contest to help you lose some of the extra weight you might have put on in 2008 (or the second half of 2008 if you participated in El Cubano Gordo 2).

When is it?
Start Date: January 1, 2009
End Date: April 25, 2009

Entry Fee:
$50.00

Rules of the El Cubano Gordo Contest:
1. Contestants report initial weight on January 1, 2009.

2. Contestants must report weight via email or text every Sunday.

3. Winner is determined by the following formula:

% of Body Weight Lost + 0.15 point for every push up completed in a 60 second period. Example: 20% body weight lost + 30 push ups completed= 24.5 points

Women receive 0.3 points for every push up completed in the one minute period.

Footnote to Female Handicap for Strength Portion
Handicapping the strength portion will surely lead to some controversy. The multiplier is based on a 30 second push up contest that Annie and I completed this morning where I completed 15 and Annie 7, so, yes, we are assuming that all men and women share our strength differential.

Winner's Circle Gala and Weigh-In
This year's winner will be announced at a dinner celebration at Havana Central on April 25th at 8pm in NYC.

Contestants need to report final weight and demonstrate push up ability the morning of April 25th.

Participants are not required to be present for final weigh in. You only need to provide video proof of the push ups + weigh-in to qualify for the first prize.

Prizes
1st Prize receives 75% of the purse
2nd Prize receives 25% of the purse

Please let me know if you will be participating.

Current Particpants
Cathy Salazar
Colleen Soriano
Chris Bell
Tom Hughes
Dea Hughes
Pete Meyers
Al Muzaurieta
Annie Muzaurieta
Steve Lee
Mary Lee
Ralph Rosado
Frank Pena
Millie Tonarely
Jorge Tonarely
Niza Tonarely
Andrea Tonarely
Ana Victoria Tonarely
Alex Vandevere

El Cubano Gordo Casting Call

2008-12-29T16:26:00.003-05:00

You are cordially invited to participate in the Third Annual El Cubano Gordo Championship. This year's contest features a new format. In addition to the weight loss competition, there will be a classic push up challenge as a test of fitness and strength.

What is it?
A four-month-long weight loss and fitness contest to help you lose some of the extra weight you might have put on in 2008 (or the second half of 2008 if you participated in El Cubano Gordo 2).

When is it?
Start Date: January 1, 2009
End Date: April 25, 2009

Entry Fee:
$50.00

Rules of the El Cubano Gordo Contest:
1. Contestants report initial weight on January 1, 2009.

2. Contestants must report weight via email or text every Sunday.

3. Winner is determined by the following formula:

% of Body Weight Lost + 0.15 point for every push up completed in a 60 second period. Example: 20% body weight lost + 30 push ups completed= 24.5 points

Women receive 0.3 points for every push up completed in the one minute period.

Footnote to Female Handicap for Strength Portion
Handicapping the strength portion will surely lead to some controversy. The multiplier is based on a 30 second push up contest that Annie and I completed this morning where I completed 15 and Annie 7, so, yes, we are assuming that all men and women share our strength differential.

Winner's Circle Gala and Weigh-In
This year's winner will be announced at a dinner celebration at Havana Central on April 25th at 8pm in NYC.

Contestants need to report final weight and demonstrate push up ability the morning of April 25th.

Participants are not required to be present for final weigh in. You only need to provide video proof of the push ups + weigh-in to qualify for the first prize.

Prizes
1st Prize receives 75% of the purse
2nd Prize receives 25% of the purse

Please let me know if you will be participating.

Current Particpants
Tom Hughes
Steve Lee
Al Muzaurieta
Annie Muzaurieta
Millie Tonarely

Christmas Day Present?

2008-12-28T15:16:00.002-05:00

19th and Broadway on Christmas Day 2008

Annie and I were walking around on Christmas day and came upon this accident that we initially thought was a movie set. A cabbie tried to make a right turn off Fifth ave from the middle lane forcing this 1965 or 1966 Porsche 912 into a traffic light on the sidewalk, which it took out. Oh, and the driver of the hot red car? Wearing a Santa suit.

Just Because It Made Me Laugh So Hard

2008-08-01T19:16:00.001-05:00

What are we having for linner?

2008-06-24T16:06:00.003-05:00

Linner is the time between lunch and dinner. And all this time I've just been calling it a snack.

The Mariner by Dahon

2008-06-19T16:55:00.006-05:00

My red folding bike was stolen while parked at NYU's Cole Athletic Center. Not deterred, I purchased a second Dahon Folding bike at A Bicycle Shop on 22nd between 6th and 7th Avenues.

My new ride...is made for boaters

"stashes easily into even the tiniest of boat holds. But when you arrive at a port of call it unfolds in seconds to help you explore or shop for supplies. The perfect accessory for your boat."

So yeah, I know my port of call is 600 square feet in Chelsea but I'm holding on to the dream that one day I'll roll into Barbados on a sail boat and unfold my bike. For now I'm content to suck up some bus smog en route to midtown.

And for those of you who need some encouragement, here is a great article that reviews the city's plan for expanding bike lanes.

$15.00 Date Night, Flor De Mayo

2008-06-19T09:21:00.001-05:00

Annie and I were on the UWS a few weeks ago and happened upon a Cuban / Chinese restaurant named Flor De Mayo. We shared a Peruvian style chicken served with black beans, rice and plantains.

Total Bill: $15.61

The restaurant itself isn't a destination but if you find yourself on 101st street and Broadway looking for cheap eats it's worth the stop.

The Onion Video on Yum Brand Feedbags - Very Funny

2008-06-04T18:09:00.000-05:00

New Wearable Feedbags Let Americans Eat More, Move Less

International Flavors

2008-05-26T10:14:00.001-05:00

A few months ago Cooking Light published an International Soup Pantry where they listed ingredients that define the tastes of different nations. Below are the key ingredients they featured. I was proud to see Cuban on the list of countries with distinct flavors

France: Mirepoix (onion, carrrot and celery), leeks, mushrooms, wine, broth, beans, seafood, duck, and cuts of pork

Russia / Ukraine: Beets, potatoes, cabbage, mushrooms, sour salt or vinegar, highly seasoned meats like sausage and sour cream

Cuba: Black beans, sofrito (onion, green bell pepper, garlic and often ham or pork), oregano, cumin, olive oil, garlic, plus starches like plantains, or a root, such as yucca

Ecuador: Potatoes, corn, beans, cilantro, chile peppers and lemon (more affluent cookds may add lard, chicken, meat or seafood)

Greece: Salty and acidic flavors, such as fresh lemon juice or vinegar, feta cheese, olives, olive oil, garlic, oregano, mint and lentils

Japan: Ginger, miso, green onions, shiso, tofu, mushrooms, mirin or rice wine, soy sauce and noodles. (most Japanese soups are based on dashi)

China: Ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, eggs, rice wine, muschrooms, nodles, meat broths, cornstarch, star anise, and five spice powder

Thailand: lemongrass, galangal, ginger, shallots, garlic, hot peppers, kaffir lime leaves, coconut milk, tamarind, fish sauce, basil, jasmine rice, noodles, shrimp and chicken

Met Life Insurance - Good for weight loss?

2008-05-23T09:00:00.002-05:00

Last week I requested a life insurance quote from Snoopy endorsed Metlife. A few days later I received a call from an agent named Meng Primack (212.514.4770), who lives in Jersey and keeps an office in Chinatown.

We met with Meng this week to complete our application. The process was painless. They asked some general health questions that I expected to answer. Questions about weight, height and tobacco use. I was a little surprised by the random lifestyle questions they ask: Do you scuba dive? Do you plan to go on safari or rock climb in the next six months. Sadly, I checked no and canceled my NOLS trip.

After we completed the application Meng gave us a quote of $67 per month for a 1 million dollar 30 year term policy and told us that a physical and blood test are required. The combined examinations determine whether I'm "health elite" or health ok. The health elite guy pays $67, the fatter riskier guy pays $87 and I think the smoker pays a whopping $120ish.

If I qualify as health elite, I'll pay Metlife $24,000 over the 30 year term. That same $24K invested in a mutual fund, earning 7% a year will be worth $87K in 2038 when I'm 62.

The question becomes is the $24K premium paid over 30 years worth it?. I really hope its money wasted but I do know its good for my short term health because until that guy comes to my house to take my blood its salads and veggies for me.

Three Nutritious Websites

2008-05-18T09:53:00.004-05:00

Three Nutritious Websites

The Nutrition Source
The Department of Nutrition at Harvard School of Public Health explores the very latest science about healthy eating for adults at this tip filled site.
www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource

USDA My Pyramid
Check out the new food pyramid at this site from the USDA.
www.mypyramid.gov/pyramid/grains_tips.html

My Recipes
Great if you are looking for delicious, healthy meals.
www.myrecipes.com/recipes/healthydiets.com

Can I finish the Miami Man Triathlon?

2008-05-16T09:51:00.004-05:00

I've started to hear the Siren's call from PJ Clarks, my local burger joint.

To keep the cravings at bay, I've signed up to compete or I should say participate in two triathlons. The first is an August 24th sprint in Miami similar to the one we just finished. The second is a much longer olympic distance race called the Miami Man triathlon on November 7th.

Hopefully both events provide sufficient motivation to keep me losing weight until El Cubano III.

Spring (Body) Cleaning

2008-05-11T21:41:00.004-05:00

Today at the supermarket I purchased a Complete Body Cleanse formula. The front of the package claims to revitalize from within using a gentle non-stimulant laxative. Greater claims appear on the back of the box: detoxifies the digestive, liver, lymph and circulatory systems.

I opened the box this evening and found 3 vitamin bottles named Cleansing Fiber Blend, Herbal Regularity and Milk Thistle Liver. I'm curious to see how frequent my cleanses occur and what impact if any this has on my general wellness. Perhaps that Penny I ate as a kid will emerge.

Free Healthy Heart Cookbook and Recipes from NIH

2008-05-09T08:41:00.004-05:00

The NIH and the U.S. Department of Health have partnered up to produce a special collection of 75 free recipes that are low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium.

Click here to download a free PDF of the recipes.

Triathlon Story - NY Times

2008-05-08T09:28:00.003-05:00

WHEN Jenny Higgins started doing triathlons, she discovered something peculiar. She had been on her high school cross country and swim teams and her college swim team. But in 2003 she started running, swimming and cycling, and tried to excel in all three at once.

Link to NY Times Triathlon Story

Who is the new El Cuban Gordo? Pete Meyers!

2008-05-06T16:00:00.000-05:00

The 2nd El Cubano Gordo challenge concluded Sunday morning in Miami, Florida.

Overall El Cubano Gordo Champion
Pete Meyers, a huge underdog entering the challenge engineered a fantastic victory by losing 9 pounds over the three month long contest and completing the Ameriprise Triathlon in 1:30 for a combined 9 Fat Is Wack Points.

Weight Loss Champion
The weigh-in portion of the competition occurred on Friday night with a pork-filled celebration at Frankie's apartment. I walked away as weight-loss champ after losing 15 pounds. Chris Brand came in a close second after losing 14 pounds.

Triathlon Champion - Tom Hughes
After several large meals 7 Fat Is Wackers participated in the Ameriprise Sprint Triathlon in Key Biscayne. The course is comprised of a quarter-mile ocean swim, a 12-mile bike over the Rickenbacker Causeway and a 3.1-mile run through Crandon Park. Tom Hughes emerged the Tri Champion with a 1:27 minute finish.

Pete, Chris, Tom & Al Post Run

Pete and Mary Lee (Pre-Twins)

The 1st El Cubano Gordo Champ from 2007 (Steve Lee)
makes an appearance...still looking good 12 months after the original contest.

Fat Is Wack Numbers - Photos Below

2008-05-06T10:47:00.002-05:00

Kristie's Contribution to the Event

2008-05-06T10:44:00.002-05:00

New Pizza Hut Pastas -- What Do They Cost Calorically?

2008-04-29T07:27:00.000-05:00

New Pizza Hut Pastas -- What Do They Cost Calorically?

by Charles Stuart Platkin
Wednesday, 23 April 2008
Have you seen the new Pizza Hut advertisements – about the Tuscani Pastas? I wondered what they cost calorically. It’s actually nice that Pizza Hut post their nutritional information. They serve these pastas in trays, and it supposedly servers 4 people. Each ¼ portion for the Chicken Alfredo is 620 calories, 32g fat, 56g carbs, 1300mg sodium. For the Meaty Marinara, it’s 510 calories, 24g fat, 48g carbs, 1310mg sodium. It’s funny b/c the Pasta Bakes Marinara w/ Meatballs, which is NOT served family style, is double the supposed serving size of the Tuscani pasta, and is 1010 calories, 46g fat, 3550mg sodium, 103g carbs… I guess Pizza Hut believes that you will eat less if you get your food family style (the way the Tuscani Pastas are served)? Really?

Week 14 - The Final Week

2008-04-28T13:40:00.007-05:00

Annie here. The final week of the competition is here! (Al is too busy to post because he is furiously training, so I'm putting up the numbers from this week.)

On Friday all participants will get together for the last weigh-in, and then on Sunday they will compete in a sprint triathlon in Key Biscayne, FL. The winner will be determined then and there, and then we will feast!

Though Pete has suggested a lettuce-only and spray-tan diet, I would advise running through the triathlon once at your gym before Friday. (I mean, not that my 36-minute 3-mile run is an example in any way.) Just remember it's fun and exciting and just like a long workout. Provided you've all been swimming...

Tri Times from Last Year

2008-04-17T09:34:00.003-05:00

Last year a few El Cubano Gordo participants completed a Sprint
Triathalon in Key Biscayne Here were the times for the race ....and yes, despite starting a two minutes after our wave Annie did come out of the water before all of us

Swim

Annie: 8:50

Al: 10:55
Steve: 11:32
Frank: 13:33

Bike
Steve: 31:32
Al: 46:13
Frank: 48:27
Annie: 48:00

Run
Steve: 23:27
Al: 36:04
Frank: 34:44
Annie: 36:00

Transition Times
Steve: 5:46
Al: 16:00
Frank: 11:10

How many push up can you do?

2008-04-15T14:18:00.002-05:00

Great NY Times article about the value of push ups as a measure of health.

Dunkin Donuts Today

2008-04-15T09:52:00.003-05:00

i'm not trying to sabotage el cubano or anything - but, i was just at Dunkin Donuts

and, all day today - buy any size coffee and get your choice of donut for free :))))

just thought i'd share the healthful news :)

also, happy tax day! - xoxo - dea

Week 11 Update - How Fat are we?

2008-04-15T08:19:00.003-05:00

Here are the latest weight loss numbers. Three short weeks remain until the triathlon in Miami. Bikes are rented, flights are purchased and soon we will have a new El Cubano Gordo Champion.