.......and things remain the same. Zero alcohol, much less coffee (zero instant coffee muck), and daily exercise for 28 days so far (29 this afternoon).

The concern about the apparent lack of weight loss has been explained by a good friend and athlete and obsessed trainer as exactly as I had hoped. Fat reduced has been replaced (on the scales, not in the same body places, of course) by new muscle. He gave me advice on doing two long aerobic sessions a week, and assures me that those will burn off the flab. And in fact, at the gym this week, I think I have noticed the start of weight loss: one whole kilogramme seems to be absent without leave, and not before time.

I have a big new work project back on the front boiler that will involve a long trip in America by motorcycle later in the year; and since it involves optimising fuel mileage, getting rid of my excess weight is a must. So that's decided then: the 31 days thing will continue after the end of the month, with a new target of 60 days -- 31 plus the first 29 days of April, until my 50th birthday on 29th April. Onward!

31 days