My last and first post basically gave a synopsis of what I've been going through the past 3 years regarding my physical makeover. I didn't go into much detail as I really didn't want to bore anyone reading this. As cathartic as venting in this setting is I'm also a writer and I prefer to keep my readers attention. Lol. Anyway, I stated once before that I would tell some of the things I'm doing to get my results.
First, I had to get serious about changing for the better. I did that and joined a gym. Now saying to yourself that you are serious about changing yourself is a first step. Actually putting something in motion is part two of that first step. For example, I joined a gym and then I finally went one day and met up with a friend worked out with him. Here's the all important step two. I returned the next day. That's big. And once you make up your mind to going back the day after the previous day, it will get easier and before you realize it you're a regular. It doesn't just stop there. You have still work to do.
I was in the gym a few days ago and I had just finished a set that I was working. Then as I'm resting I see this guy walking around. He was a big guy and I could not take my eyes off him. I watched him for as long as he was within my sights. I still did my sets but when I was done I looked around the space until I found him. He would move from machine to machine almost like he was wandering aimlessly. Clearly, he didn't have a plan of any sort. He was some what slow moving and I could tell really out of shape. This person would get on a machine that worked muscles in the arms or chest and then he would move to a machine that targets a different muscle group. Well, the reason I was so enamored with is that I used to be him. When I first joined, I was so excited and gung ho about what I was about to get in to. Then reality set in. I had been told by more than one trainer and not to mention my friend, the trainer, to get on the treadmill and do cardio. I needed to build my endurance but more importantly the cardiovascular activity would improve and increase my metabolism. Which obviously was stagnate and a major cause to my weight gain. I needed to move in oxygen for at least 30 minutes daily and that will make changes to my metabolic rate drastically. However, I was hard headed then. I would go to a treadmill. Set the timer for 30 minutes and start. Then it would take forever, in my mind, to get to 10 minutes. After 14, I would hit STOP. So now, I'm thinking well I don't need cardio, I'm just going to just hit weights. And I did and I learned quickly that I was going about it wrong. Watching that guy just brought back those memories. My point is, there is no short cut. You've got to make the decision to want to change and then put in the work required for the desired results.
My goal is to get around 230lbs and shrink to about size 36-38 inch waist. I'm about a 44 now and still shrinking. I feel better than I have in years. I was in a department store recently and browsing in the mens clothing. I was kind of taken aback realizing that I could now pick up and purchase items from the rack. I was no longer limited to the Big and Tall section of that store or to a big and tall store. It felt good. I haven't been able to really do that in almost 15 years. Then I realize, that's a long time to be that big. Anyway, one might think that being a chef would make it easier for me to eat healthy or non fattening foods too. Well, maybe for some. I other the hand have regular job and me being a chef isn't full time yet. Another project I'm working on within the metamorphosis of me. However, I do eat much better and truth be told my eating wasn't the big reason for my weight gain and health issues solely. It was a factor. Now, I do much better across the board. And in case you're wondering, no I don't specialize in healthy cooking in my food service. LOL. I do however, have a few dishes on my menu that are figure friendly. My food style is bistro. Lots of good items from which to choose but, I can get in to that another time. I was in a restaurant last week and actually sat in a booth. I didn't have to hold my plate up to my mouth. I could lean forward to the plate as it was on the table. I'm telling you. I've made strides. LOL. I could go on and on about the little things like that I'm noticing.
Anyway, I've changed up my up exercise and eating routine a little. I am inspired by a friend who recently lost significant weight. She's on a 8 week regiment designed by a nutritionist she's hired. And it is working wonders. She starts a new 8 week cycle soon and by the results from her first cycle she's going to make great changes. She went from a size 16 to a 10 in 8 weeks. Wow, impressive. So I'm putting myself on a 10 week cycle. I've turned up the intensity a little with my work outs. I do more reps now with lighter weights. My cardio will still be consistent. And I'm cutting out more from my diet. I drink lemon water daily and still a gallon of plain water each work day. Also, I have an additional source for my motivation. I won't say what that is but, I hope it turns out the way I want it in the end. So, I'm on a mission. Although I've come a long ways since 2009 and 415lbs, I still have a ways to go to meet my goal. But it is so nice to be living .......Life Less Than Heavy!
