SOUTH PUGET SOUND, WASHINGTON
We did South Beach Phase 1 for 1 week, then did Phase 2 for a 2 weeks. We gradually added more of the right carbs until we were almost on the maintenance phase and settled into our own eating plan.
I think South Beach is a good kick start program, but for a lifestyle we have chosen to count calories, carbs, fat, fiber, etc.
We take in a lot of fiber to counteract those carbs and our fats are healthy fats.
I think each person needs to figure out how many calories they need to maintain. I can eat about 1700 calories a day and maintain. If I want more calories I need to exercise and burn them off.
CK has me at 1500 cal a day to lose. I'll lose slowly, but I feel satisfied about what I eat and am not hungry. When I exercise it gives me about 300 extra calories to eat...or, sometimes, to be honest, I just don't eat any extra.
My weigh in day is tomorrow. I usually lose 3-4 pounds the 1st week I get strict about calories and exercise and anywhere from a pound or so a week after that. It is slow, but it really does tend to stay off.
In addition, I reinforce healthy habits.
Is this the 1st time you have made an effort to lose weight?
I'm doing yard work today, so I too shall experience some soreness. 
Virginia