167.5 pounds and 12% body fat this morning. That, even without the run! I've been scrambling at work and have been working some loooong days, through my lunch hours and even now, during the weekend. I know that doing this is not any good for my mental or physical health but right now, it pays the bills so I have no choice.
Anyway, I did move a bit of snow (actually a lot of hard-packed snow) this morning before getting back to the grind of my job, serving as my daily exercise. I will hop on the bike trainer tomorrow morning to burn off some more stress and keep the legs used to spinning... for the upcoming bike season... c'mon bike season!
A bit of what I am doing is attributed to my wife. She has taken the lead on making my lunches for me and kind of planning my diet. Amazingly, what she packs for me somehow makes it so I am not hungry in the afternoon. No cravings!
So what am I eating? Simple.
8AM - (2) Breakfast Bars; Water (though I will get plain coffee if I find it for free)
10AM - Banana and pretzels; Water
NOON - Bagel Sandwich, Yogurt and Fruit Cup; Water
2PM - Candy Bar (if I can hold out... usually it is gone by noon)
6PM (usually later due to work) - 2-3 fists of food (she usually makes a balanced meal)
She and I talked and she is trying to lock me into about 1500 calories and maxing out at 2000. We'll see how it goes. She has also dropped a bit too.
Saturday
Down Will Come Baby...
... cradle and all!
I haven't written here all month because I've been suffering. All things came to a halt and all the bad things have crept in and taken residence. I won't get too much into it all since I'm sure it would sound like a broken record of excuses... and I really don't want to be about excuses. But I have fallen into a little negative pit and have been dragged over to the Fat side of the title's equation. Ugh... fat.
I finally got to run this morning... in the snow. I only did my 2 mile route, but trudging through the snow covered sidewalks was a bit tougher to grind through than dry pavement. I was out of breath through most of the run and depleted by the time I returned home... then I had to shovel the drive and sidewalk.
That's alright. After finishing all that up, I weighed back in at 169lbs. I was creeping up to 175lbs. and I was getting a bit concerned. Unfortunately though, I've been so wacked out, we went shopping and then hit the King Buffet on the way home. I don't think I ate a lot, though I was very stuffed (and still am). I have noticed that I am thirsty, thirsty, thirsty. I'm sure that is all a result of the salt-saturated food on the buffet. I'll chalk up the extra weight tomorrow morning to water weight.
One step at a time....
I haven't written here all month because I've been suffering. All things came to a halt and all the bad things have crept in and taken residence. I won't get too much into it all since I'm sure it would sound like a broken record of excuses... and I really don't want to be about excuses. But I have fallen into a little negative pit and have been dragged over to the Fat side of the title's equation. Ugh... fat.
I finally got to run this morning... in the snow. I only did my 2 mile route, but trudging through the snow covered sidewalks was a bit tougher to grind through than dry pavement. I was out of breath through most of the run and depleted by the time I returned home... then I had to shovel the drive and sidewalk.
That's alright. After finishing all that up, I weighed back in at 169lbs. I was creeping up to 175lbs. and I was getting a bit concerned. Unfortunately though, I've been so wacked out, we went shopping and then hit the King Buffet on the way home. I don't think I ate a lot, though I was very stuffed (and still am). I have noticed that I am thirsty, thirsty, thirsty. I'm sure that is all a result of the salt-saturated food on the buffet. I'll chalk up the extra weight tomorrow morning to water weight.
One step at a time....
Monday
Wrapping Up 2007...
I just went back to take a read on where I was at the end of 2006. A little bit of deja vu, but I am actually in better shape then I was then. A whole 5-7 pounds better. The deja vu comes in the form of both my wife and I curbing little habits that creep in over the year to keep us a little bit down.
Over the year, I did reach a great high riding my MTB... I was a smoking rocket on the trail for several weeks, peaking months earlier than I had planned. I tried to keep it up but slowly, the flame dimmed. I pretty much gave it up when my trusty Bontrager failed me on a chasing downhill and had me bouncing off the roots and rocks of a rutty, hard slope. This happened 6 weeks before the Iceman, which I also cashed in and skipped this year. The event did send me to the doctor and I had some "surgery" on a growing, very painful mass left on my side. To this day, a little bit of the mass is still there and a little numb tingling still exists.
I hope to do better this year. I've already been invited to do the Chicago Shamrock Shuffle in March and have entered my name into the Iceman Cometh Challenge entry lottery. I'm sure I will contemplate doing the 12 Hours of Pando and a half dozen 5K runs. Maybe it's time to really look into what I eat and nutritional values.
Anyway, 169 pounds. I did hit 168 after my Saturday run, but I logged in a bit higher this morning.
Over the year, I did reach a great high riding my MTB... I was a smoking rocket on the trail for several weeks, peaking months earlier than I had planned. I tried to keep it up but slowly, the flame dimmed. I pretty much gave it up when my trusty Bontrager failed me on a chasing downhill and had me bouncing off the roots and rocks of a rutty, hard slope. This happened 6 weeks before the Iceman, which I also cashed in and skipped this year. The event did send me to the doctor and I had some "surgery" on a growing, very painful mass left on my side. To this day, a little bit of the mass is still there and a little numb tingling still exists.
I hope to do better this year. I've already been invited to do the Chicago Shamrock Shuffle in March and have entered my name into the Iceman Cometh Challenge entry lottery. I'm sure I will contemplate doing the 12 Hours of Pando and a half dozen 5K runs. Maybe it's time to really look into what I eat and nutritional values.
Anyway, 169 pounds. I did hit 168 after my Saturday run, but I logged in a bit higher this morning.
Wednesday
NEXT!
So far, so good. The New Year's hump is the last to overcome before this hoopla is all over. I've felt like I've eaten a ton of food, but as I think back, I really haven't eaten too much.
I also did the "5th Hole" trick. Heheheh. This is when I go to the 5th hole on the belt... which is the next achievement hole. If I leave it on the 4th hole, my pants are too loose. Anyway, as long as I keep it in the 5th, it hurts if I eat too much and I feel full faster. Plus if I need to do a #2, I'll use the 5th to help me along... I know, too much info or ehw.
Non-scientific methods, but they work for me. Hehehehe.
I will know tomorrow morning how much, if any, damage has been done so far. That is when I can weigh in again under my normal weigh-in conditions.
Peace and Happy Holidays!
I also did the "5th Hole" trick. Heheheh. This is when I go to the 5th hole on the belt... which is the next achievement hole. If I leave it on the 4th hole, my pants are too loose. Anyway, as long as I keep it in the 5th, it hurts if I eat too much and I feel full faster. Plus if I need to do a #2, I'll use the 5th to help me along... I know, too much info or ehw.
Non-scientific methods, but they work for me. Hehehehe.
I will know tomorrow morning how much, if any, damage has been done so far. That is when I can weigh in again under my normal weigh-in conditions.
Peace and Happy Holidays!
Tuesday
The Second Coming
Approaching the second coming of the "holiday" onslaught, I am glad I am getting on-track with my training. I still have a little ways to go before everything is in place, but things seem to be swinging in the right direction. What I'm noticing is that since my training and control are firming up, I am less concerned about the over indulgence that is sure to occur in the next few weeks. In fact, if I do it right by watching what goes in and what I put out... it could all work to my advantage.
My wife will be making some holiday cookies for both families. But we discussed what kind of cookies to make. I cannot reveal the kind here, but they are of a healthier fare, very tasty and most are a favorite for one person or another at our destinations.
Some holiday thoughts... take small portions. Look for lean choices. Limit the alcohol. Stay engaged with the people around you by playing games, having conversations or go for a walk with the dog or your mom. It'll do your body good!!
My wife will be making some holiday cookies for both families. But we discussed what kind of cookies to make. I cannot reveal the kind here, but they are of a healthier fare, very tasty and most are a favorite for one person or another at our destinations.
Some holiday thoughts... take small portions. Look for lean choices. Limit the alcohol. Stay engaged with the people around you by playing games, having conversations or go for a walk with the dog or your mom. It'll do your body good!!
Sunday
Icy Run
The weather around here is anything but toasty. None-the-less, I managed to get going and pull on some tights and some fleece to brave the sub-20's morning chill. I had already brought out the heavy socks to avoid the frozen toes I suffered the week before, but there was no prep I know of that would prepare me for today's skating party.
That's right, shortly after leaving my well-shoveled and salted driveway, I encountered the lazy neighbors undulating ice formations in front of their homes and especially crossing their driveways. Normally, I run on the road, but since it was evident it was icy out, I wanted to avoid actually running in traffic in case I... or an automobile found some black ice.
I'm sure I looked a bit odd running in these conditions, but I'm sure it was a more interesting view as I tippy-toed/danced across rough patches of ice. I did a lot of running on people's lawns to get crusted snow for better grip. In the end, I cut the planned distance in half and ran the last half on the road. The last stretch is wide and is usually well salted.
That's right, shortly after leaving my well-shoveled and salted driveway, I encountered the lazy neighbors undulating ice formations in front of their homes and especially crossing their driveways. Normally, I run on the road, but since it was evident it was icy out, I wanted to avoid actually running in traffic in case I... or an automobile found some black ice.
I'm sure I looked a bit odd running in these conditions, but I'm sure it was a more interesting view as I tippy-toed/danced across rough patches of ice. I did a lot of running on people's lawns to get crusted snow for better grip. In the end, I cut the planned distance in half and ran the last half on the road. The last stretch is wide and is usually well salted.
Wednesday
StrongLifts 5X5
I've been looking around trying to find different approaches to strength training over the cold months and ran across the StrongLifts 5X5 workout. Take a read.
Now if I can integrate some of the philosophies into my routine... I would be golden!
Now if I can integrate some of the philosophies into my routine... I would be golden!
Tuesday
Thursday
Top 10 Diet Super Boosters!
The following is taken from an article from the Carmichael Training Systems website.
Next time you make a sandwich, salad, smoothie, or bake; add a healthy nutritional punch with one or more of the following ingredients. Your body -- and your taste buds -- will be glad you did.
Ground Flaxseed
ADD TO: Warm oatmeal in the morning, cold smoothie following a workout, or mixed into yogurt as a snack
WHY: In the ground form, 2 Tbsp of this sweet and nutty tasting seed provides 140% of the recommended amount of cholesterol-busting omega-3 fatty acids which also act as anti-inflammatories, and maintain your vision.
Almonds
ADD TO: A great topping to any salad
WHY: One-quarter cup of almonds contains 41% of the daily value (DV) for Vitamin E to boost your immune system, 19% DV for magnesium to maintain normal nerve and muscle functioning and 18% DV for dietary fiber to control blood sugar levels and regulate your digestive system.
Wheat Germ
ADD TO: Homemade breads or sprinkle it in yogurt or smoothie
WHY: Wheat germ has more potassium and iron that any other food source per weight. Its rich B-Vitamin content helps to maintain energy levels and maintain healthy muscles, organs, hair and skin.
Olive Oil
ADD TO: Whole grain bread as a spread instead of butter or margarine
WHY: Numerous studies have shown olive oil to be protective against heart and other degenerative diseases. Also, the high phenol content found in this kind of oil provides antioxidant properties.
Pumpkin
ADD TO: Any recipe calling for butter; substitute pumpkin for half of the butter listed
WHY: You reduce the fat you eat and receive 310% of your daily Vitamin A. Plus pumpkin delivers high doses of potassium, magnesium and iron.
Hummus
ADD TO: Any sandwich or use as a vegetable dip
WHY: Hummus replaces typical spreads (i.e. ranch dressing, mayonnaise, butter) that are extremely high in saturated fat and cholesterol. And hummus serves up a hefty portion of protein and iron, as well as manganese which plays an important role in energy metabolism and the body's immune system.
Lemon Juice
ADD TO: Water, to add a zesty kick
WHY: Limonoids (found in lemon juice) have been shown to help fight cancers of the mouth, skin, lung, breast, stomach and colon, and may have the potential to lower cholesterol.
Spinach
ADD TO: Any sandwich or in place of lettuce in a salad
WHY: One cup of spinach can do wonders in maintaining your bone health by working with calcium to maintain bone structure. This leafy green also contains lutein, a key nutrient in preventing degenerative diseases in the eye.
Garlic
ADD TO: Homemade dressings and marinades and pasta sauce in crushed form
WHY: It's an excellent source of manganese, Vitamin B6 and selenium. Research has shown positive results of regular garlic consumption on blood pressure, platelet aggregation, serum triglyceride level, and cholesterol levels.
Cinnamon
ADD TO: Cereal, baked potato, or in any baked good
WHY: Cinnamaldehyde found in cinnamon prevents blood platelets from clumping together and hindering blood flow. Cinnamon can also help even out blood sugar levels by slowing down carbohydrate absorption in the stomach.
Wednesday
Setting Up a Swanky Indoor Training Space
I found this little article on the Carmichael Training Systems website. It isn't a breakthrough by any means, but it does give good guidelines and things to think about when prepping for the indoor training blues.
CLICK ME TO GET THERE!
CLICK ME TO GET THERE!
Realization
I have been a dormant stump for a few weeks.
And I feel the roll growing around me. Suffocating me. Smothering me.
I was talking with my wife the other day and we were talking about our lack of working out... or at least a decent consistency in doing so. And a weird little thing came up. She mentioned that recently... I've smelled funny.
Funny? Like what do you mean?
Like you need to wear more cologne or something. You smell funny.
Tie all this in with noticing she also commented on me having halitosis as of late... that's bad breath... more so than I can recall.
I asked when she noticed the funny smell and it started a couple of weeks ago. It coincided with about the same time as when I started to schluff off and miss routine runs and workouts for whatever reason. Whatever reason I could find... mostly bad weather.
So instead of smelling funny and needing to layer on the Calvin... I will begin to workout again. That started earlier today... a lunchtime run in 22 degree weather with a wind chill of 9. My face was instantly stinging when I faced the wind. None-the-less, I did the run and look forward to my next one on Saturday... where the weather is suppose to be 28 as a high (which means 15 at the crack of dawn when I go) and snow showers... yippee...
I'm planning to kick in the weight training tomorrow at noon. A bit of Zen, heavy plates and a little cardio packed in to a 35 minute routine. Wish me luck!
I'll be easing into the program I outlined in an earlier writing and hope to have that hopping by January 1.
169/12
And I feel the roll growing around me. Suffocating me. Smothering me.
I was talking with my wife the other day and we were talking about our lack of working out... or at least a decent consistency in doing so. And a weird little thing came up. She mentioned that recently... I've smelled funny.
Funny? Like what do you mean?
Like you need to wear more cologne or something. You smell funny.
Tie all this in with noticing she also commented on me having halitosis as of late... that's bad breath... more so than I can recall.
I asked when she noticed the funny smell and it started a couple of weeks ago. It coincided with about the same time as when I started to schluff off and miss routine runs and workouts for whatever reason. Whatever reason I could find... mostly bad weather.
So instead of smelling funny and needing to layer on the Calvin... I will begin to workout again. That started earlier today... a lunchtime run in 22 degree weather with a wind chill of 9. My face was instantly stinging when I faced the wind. None-the-less, I did the run and look forward to my next one on Saturday... where the weather is suppose to be 28 as a high (which means 15 at the crack of dawn when I go) and snow showers... yippee...
I'm planning to kick in the weight training tomorrow at noon. A bit of Zen, heavy plates and a little cardio packed in to a 35 minute routine. Wish me luck!
I'll be easing into the program I outlined in an earlier writing and hope to have that hopping by January 1.
169/12
Friday
As the Snow Flies
Yup. It's white and slippery where I live. The high sign that I need to get going to stave off the natural tendency for the human body to blow up like a balloon over the Winter months. Unfortunately, the high sign isn't quite motivating me as much this year as in years past.
D'oh.
The last several months have had there toll on me as I watched my fitness programs erode to almost nothing. And I don't feel the desire to really get going, even though I know I should. Complacency be damned!
I've noticed that I feel colder this year. I used to love the cold and could stave it off with no problem. Hmmm... no more. I am cold. I do have to scratch my head though. As Michigan's economy tanks at a faster rate than the rest of the country, opportunities emerge that could place my family where the sun shines and temps would barely tempt overnight frost on even the colder days.
Things to think about....
D'oh.
The last several months have had there toll on me as I watched my fitness programs erode to almost nothing. And I don't feel the desire to really get going, even though I know I should. Complacency be damned!
I've noticed that I feel colder this year. I used to love the cold and could stave it off with no problem. Hmmm... no more. I am cold. I do have to scratch my head though. As Michigan's economy tanks at a faster rate than the rest of the country, opportunities emerge that could place my family where the sun shines and temps would barely tempt overnight frost on even the colder days.
Things to think about....
Tuesday
Expiration Date on Shoes
I have to replace my fitness shoes several times per year whether I want to or not. This is because shoes wear out. Even if a shoe... especially running and fitness shoes... still look good or the sole is in great shape from lack of use, time and the elements take their toll. Light, humidity and even air degrade rubbers and foams over time. This compromises the effectiveness of the shoes and could cause injury if really degraded. The maximum I ever have running shoes is 1 year no matter how much mileage I put on them. Running is a demanding activity and I need as much help as I can get when staving off injuries. Usually I am rotating 2 pairs every year. This allows me to try out different shoes if I want as well as lengthen the useful life of the pair. I also do this for work (professional) shoes. To be honest, I have about 8-10 pairs of shoes I use for work and casually bumming around. Back to the running shoes, I have a tendency to have one pair of pavement shoes and one for off-road use. That's just to be able to mix up the terrain and have the proper equipment.
Anyway, I received an awesome deal from them and had to post it up. One of the best I've seen in a while. So if you need to replace those old stinkies or give the gift of fitness... here is your chance to save big.
$20 off $50 or more + Free Shipping at Shoebuy.com when you pay with PayPal
Anyway, I received an awesome deal from them and had to post it up. One of the best I've seen in a while. So if you need to replace those old stinkies or give the gift of fitness... here is your chance to save big.
$20 off $50 or more + Free Shipping at Shoebuy.com when you pay with PayPal
Monday
Gluttony is my Undoing
Gluttony. What kind of word is that?
Well, I really lost it a bit this past weekend. I actually did quite a bit and was sore/stiff for Sunday (and today - Monday). But in the process, I ate extra helpings like a glutton during the evening hours. Why? I don't know... and the apple pie that topped off Sunday dinner? Boy, did I need that like another mortgage.
So on Saturday, I ran 4 miles and then I took care of the leaves in the yard. It took a little bit of time even with the yard vac and blower/vac, but I did it. And worst of all, it was cold and drizzling out the whole day. The workout I got was a good one though... but stupidly, I didn't eat anything yet for the day.
After finishing, we went and was disappointed at a local Red Robin as their fare was much smaller and fell short of our expectations set forth from two other visits while with friends. Oh well... I suppose that may well be the last time we eat there.
We went shopping afterwards. I had hoped the meal would make me feel a little more peppy, but I was wrong... and run down. I should have also known I was in trouble when I was sucking down a ton of liquids... and while shopping, all I could do was look for a drinking fountain... unsuccessfully. My dry mouth was driving me nuts.
When I got home I sucked down 4 glasses of water.
Sunday, I changed from summer to winter tires on both vehicles. You can imagine what that takes, but this time it required some extra muscle. Both vehicles had brake work done since the switch in the Spring... so the lugs were over tightened (a few of mine were too loose). Disappointing.
Afterwards, we had lunch and went shopping. After that, I had a double helping of dinner... and an apple pie. Only once slice!
The doulbles were not smart as they pushed me over the edge... I checked in at 171/11 this morning. How's that for a yo-yo?! I'll be doing a night ride tonight and I'll post on my RoqueRode blog about it tomorrow or the next day.
Well, I really lost it a bit this past weekend. I actually did quite a bit and was sore/stiff for Sunday (and today - Monday). But in the process, I ate extra helpings like a glutton during the evening hours. Why? I don't know... and the apple pie that topped off Sunday dinner? Boy, did I need that like another mortgage.
So on Saturday, I ran 4 miles and then I took care of the leaves in the yard. It took a little bit of time even with the yard vac and blower/vac, but I did it. And worst of all, it was cold and drizzling out the whole day. The workout I got was a good one though... but stupidly, I didn't eat anything yet for the day.
After finishing, we went and was disappointed at a local Red Robin as their fare was much smaller and fell short of our expectations set forth from two other visits while with friends. Oh well... I suppose that may well be the last time we eat there.
We went shopping afterwards. I had hoped the meal would make me feel a little more peppy, but I was wrong... and run down. I should have also known I was in trouble when I was sucking down a ton of liquids... and while shopping, all I could do was look for a drinking fountain... unsuccessfully. My dry mouth was driving me nuts.
When I got home I sucked down 4 glasses of water.
Sunday, I changed from summer to winter tires on both vehicles. You can imagine what that takes, but this time it required some extra muscle. Both vehicles had brake work done since the switch in the Spring... so the lugs were over tightened (a few of mine were too loose). Disappointing.
Afterwards, we had lunch and went shopping. After that, I had a double helping of dinner... and an apple pie. Only once slice!
The doulbles were not smart as they pushed me over the edge... I checked in at 171/11 this morning. How's that for a yo-yo?! I'll be doing a night ride tonight and I'll post on my RoqueRode blog about it tomorrow or the next day.
Sunday
Hydrate!
165/10.
That's where I was earlier today after a 4 mile run and a few hours of taking care of the leaves in the yard. Not fun either way, but it needed to be done.
Later, I went shopping for another few hours but found myself absolutely thirsty for much of the time. I even had a disappointing burger and fries at the local Red Robin... at least food wise. It seemed the burgers were smaller, the prices higher and the fries less than what we expected. Service? We waited for 5-10 minutes before a server happened by and realized we were in a section WITHOUT a server. Thank you. The server herself was excellent. Fairly attentive and continued to make sure everything was a-ok. Anyway, the point was that I sucked down 3 Cokes and was still thirsty. Efforts to locate a drinking fountain in the mall was pointless and I didn't want to shell out $3 for something from a vendor. So I suffered.
By the time I arrived home, I sucked down 20oz of water followed by another round a few minutes later. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Gotta remember to practice this more... I am dehydrated far too often.
That's where I was earlier today after a 4 mile run and a few hours of taking care of the leaves in the yard. Not fun either way, but it needed to be done.
Later, I went shopping for another few hours but found myself absolutely thirsty for much of the time. I even had a disappointing burger and fries at the local Red Robin... at least food wise. It seemed the burgers were smaller, the prices higher and the fries less than what we expected. Service? We waited for 5-10 minutes before a server happened by and realized we were in a section WITHOUT a server. Thank you. The server herself was excellent. Fairly attentive and continued to make sure everything was a-ok. Anyway, the point was that I sucked down 3 Cokes and was still thirsty. Efforts to locate a drinking fountain in the mall was pointless and I didn't want to shell out $3 for something from a vendor. So I suffered.
By the time I arrived home, I sucked down 20oz of water followed by another round a few minutes later. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Gotta remember to practice this more... I am dehydrated far too often.
Friday
Trudging Along
So far, the workouts haven't stuck. Outside of daily push-ups in the morning, I haven't really done much formal exercise for about 2 weeks. A bunch of the guys I ride with did the Iceman Cometh Challenge last weekend, but I bowed out of that so I can attend to other priorities; I visited my new nephew Reimer in Atlanta that weekend.
Unfortunately, while down in Atlanta, I (actually "we") had quite a bit of food at a couple of restaurants. We had dinner the first night at a "chain" place known as Ted's Montana Grill. It is owned/started by Ted Turner and boasts an eco-friendly philosophy... even though I was trying out the Bison burgers. The burger was quite overdone as I requested medium... and the server did state "slight pink center" as their medium... it was done through and through and then some. It was just a bit dry and the condiments could not compensate. Good enough, I guess but not a "boy, Atlanta is awesome!" kind of experience. The next day we were planning to hit the "World of Coke" tour in downtown Atlanta. The place reminded me of the now defunct Kellogg's "Cereal City" tour in Battle Creek. Afterwards, we headed over to the ESPN Zone restaurant for lunch. Again, adequate food, just no "WOW!". Later we had dinner on the deck off the grill and roasted marshmallow and made s'mores off of the fire pit.
Surprisingly, I didn't gain any weight.
Now I am back watching what I eat and stabilizing my weight. The weather has turned to cooler temps. And there are only 5 more weeks before the days begin to get longer again.
Hopefully, I can will myself to get into my programs.
167.5/12
Unfortunately, while down in Atlanta, I (actually "we") had quite a bit of food at a couple of restaurants. We had dinner the first night at a "chain" place known as Ted's Montana Grill. It is owned/started by Ted Turner and boasts an eco-friendly philosophy... even though I was trying out the Bison burgers. The burger was quite overdone as I requested medium... and the server did state "slight pink center" as their medium... it was done through and through and then some. It was just a bit dry and the condiments could not compensate. Good enough, I guess but not a "boy, Atlanta is awesome!" kind of experience. The next day we were planning to hit the "World of Coke" tour in downtown Atlanta. The place reminded me of the now defunct Kellogg's "Cereal City" tour in Battle Creek. Afterwards, we headed over to the ESPN Zone restaurant for lunch. Again, adequate food, just no "WOW!". Later we had dinner on the deck off the grill and roasted marshmallow and made s'mores off of the fire pit.
Surprisingly, I didn't gain any weight.
Now I am back watching what I eat and stabilizing my weight. The weather has turned to cooler temps. And there are only 5 more weeks before the days begin to get longer again.
Hopefully, I can will myself to get into my programs.
167.5/12
Tuesday
Winter Workout Time
Yup. The temps are finally dropping here in the good ol' Water Wonderland state of Michigan. A blustery cold front has taken hold and plans to stick around for a while. So it brings to mind a lot of things as I prep for the season. First off, as I mentioned in RoqueRode, the bikes are going into hibernation. Oh, sad but true. Next is to get my winter tires on my car so I can rip down the highway on my half-hour daily commute, break out the sweaters (I'm wearing one right now) and begin to transition (and brace myself) for the winter workout routine.
This year I want to do a bit more weight training and core work than previously. I've done it before (the weight training... not so much the core work) and I look forward to it. Plus I'd like to see if there is a difference in spring fitness level than previously. I still want to be able to do a couple of aerobic days as well... including my routine Saturday morning runs. My tentative schedule is as follows:
Sun - Push Ups AM, Sit Ups PM
Mon - Push Ups AM, Noon Weight Training A-set, Sit Ups PM
Tue - Push Ups AM, Sit Ups PM
Wed - Push Ups AM, Noon Run (2-5 miles), Sit Ups PM
Thu - Push Ups AM, Sit Ups PM
Fri - Push Ups AM, Noon Weight Training B-set, Sit Ups PM
Sat - Run AM (4-8 miles), Sit Ups PM
Hopefully, it will all work out! Get it?!
For the record, 164/11 this morning.
This year I want to do a bit more weight training and core work than previously. I've done it before (the weight training... not so much the core work) and I look forward to it. Plus I'd like to see if there is a difference in spring fitness level than previously. I still want to be able to do a couple of aerobic days as well... including my routine Saturday morning runs. My tentative schedule is as follows:
Sun - Push Ups AM, Sit Ups PM
Mon - Push Ups AM, Noon Weight Training A-set, Sit Ups PM
Tue - Push Ups AM, Sit Ups PM
Wed - Push Ups AM, Noon Run (2-5 miles), Sit Ups PM
Thu - Push Ups AM, Sit Ups PM
Fri - Push Ups AM, Noon Weight Training B-set, Sit Ups PM
Sat - Run AM (4-8 miles), Sit Ups PM
Hopefully, it will all work out! Get it?!
For the record, 164/11 this morning.
Sunday
Saturday Run
I dreaded this run. For the last few weeks, I have been dwindling in miles. From 5 to 4 to 3 last week. I've felt completely run down for each of the runs. But this Saturday, I peeled off the pace... just a touch and I ripped out 4 miles. And it felt good. Despite the crazy weight gain from Halloween, even.
For the record, I was 165.5/9 after the run. Today I was 162.5/8.
For the record, I was 165.5/9 after the run. Today I was 162.5/8.
Trampoline Effect
Yeah... I'm not so good. Some people call it the yo-yo effect, bet for some reason, when I go through it, it always seems to go to extremes... thus the trampoline effect for me. My weight is all over the place and I am having a difficult time keeping it in check. Partially because of my caloric intake and the other being the fact that the weather has gotten just a bit cooler and the hibernation is kicking in. I'm fighting to stay below the dreaded 170 pounds. So far, I'm doing alright.
One of the things the past few days that has just about broken my spirit, but I'm sure will eventually inspire me is an e-mail I found from an old friend of mine. He was getting out of the flabby life and was talking about a crazy workout regimen and very clean diet. Believe me, he got very "buff" after that point. But what got me was my reply. I mentioned that I was at my heaviest ever at 165 pounds and was working my way back down to 150-155 pounds. I really got to get back to that weight.
One of the things the past few days that has just about broken my spirit, but I'm sure will eventually inspire me is an e-mail I found from an old friend of mine. He was getting out of the flabby life and was talking about a crazy workout regimen and very clean diet. Believe me, he got very "buff" after that point. But what got me was my reply. I mentioned that I was at my heaviest ever at 165 pounds and was working my way back down to 150-155 pounds. I really got to get back to that weight.
Getting Back on Track
I'm still on a mission and I feel good about it right now. The Iceman Cometh in closing in fast and I am behind on my training. Injuries, house work, the ol' job and mental fatigue. Whatever there is to interrupt my training, it seems like it has happened.
I have ridden three different trails in a weeks time, the first time I've done this since... heck, before I was married. I'm taking the rides in stride and try not to over do it or lose too much control rolling through the twisties. Another great thing is that I ran for the first time in oh... about two-and-a-half weeks. Sure, I've lost a bit of speed but that should quickly return as I ramp up the runs.
Also, I am looking into going to work a little earlier that usual. Something like 6AM. What that does is get me a workout in the morning and I can shower and stuff at work. Then it's just a quick jaunt across the street to the studio by 8 and I'm good to go. I may try this for up to 3 times per week depending on how all the forces align and allow.
Anyway, I feel good. My legs are tired from the run and a day of working on the house. Not too fat either. Weighed in at 165.5lbs/9% this morning. Not too bad and I feel my endurance is up as well. We'll see after this week of recovery.
I have ridden three different trails in a weeks time, the first time I've done this since... heck, before I was married. I'm taking the rides in stride and try not to over do it or lose too much control rolling through the twisties. Another great thing is that I ran for the first time in oh... about two-and-a-half weeks. Sure, I've lost a bit of speed but that should quickly return as I ramp up the runs.
Also, I am looking into going to work a little earlier that usual. Something like 6AM. What that does is get me a workout in the morning and I can shower and stuff at work. Then it's just a quick jaunt across the street to the studio by 8 and I'm good to go. I may try this for up to 3 times per week depending on how all the forces align and allow.
Anyway, I feel good. My legs are tired from the run and a day of working on the house. Not too fat either. Weighed in at 165.5lbs/9% this morning. Not too bad and I feel my endurance is up as well. We'll see after this week of recovery.
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