Body Transformation: Back In Black

I've always been involved in sports in fashion. Wrestling and football were my passion growing up. In college, I got serious about lifting because I wanted to perform better in football. My philosophy was to consume a lot of calories and gain weight because I lifted large amounts of weight during my workouts.

In 2005, my life was turned upside down. My father and older sister passed away and I went through a divorce within eight months. It all took place within the first year of my teaching career also. This was an extremely difficult time for me and my motivation for life was gone. I stayed out of the gym for a long time and became disgusted with myself.

My mindset in regards to training and fitness changed in June of 2011. A close friend recommended Kris Gethin's 12-Week Hardcore Trainer on Bodybuilding.com. I started at 240 pounds and 23 percent body fat. I set some personal goals for myself and jumped into the program full bore. I decided to make a change because I was unhappy with the way I looked and wanted to live a longer, happier life. I didn't want my life to be cut short like it was for my father and sister. I wanted to be around for my family and be able to lift weights and train with my four children.

By the time the program was over, I lost 45 pounds and was down to 10 percent body fat. A month later, on the day of my first photo shoot, I was down to 182 pounds and 6 percent body fat. A few months later, I decided to compete in my first NGA natural bodybuilding competition and placed third. I'm currently training for my next show.

I've had success because the changes I made were permanent, not just short-term. I changed my lifestyle and the way I think and train. It doesn't matter how much weight I lift. I still lift as heavy as I can, but it's more important to me that my muscles are contracting and working on each rep.

Since my transformation, I had many conversations with friends, family, acquaintances in the gym, and people on BodySpace. It feels good to offer advice and share my story with others. It feels good knowing that I'm a regular guy who works a full-time job, has a wife and four children, and is able to find time in the gym. It doesn't matter what your background is, what you do for a living, or where you're from, you can be successful and reach your goals.

The first measure I took was to put everything out there for people to see. I didn't want my transformation to be a secret. I told everyone I knew on social networks, at work, and in casual settings. I told people I'm going to transform my body and make major lifestyle changes to better myself. I'm an elementary school teacher who sets high expectations on my students. I didn't want it to be different with my fitness goals.

I have to admit, there were many days I wanted to quit. I still have days where I have to talk myself into going to the gym. I think it's important to realize we all have those days. What sets you apart is taking it to the next level and not making excuses. BodySpace was a huge help for me to overcome those moments of weakness. I reminded myself of the end goal and looked to others who inspired me.

The staff lounge at school is full of unhealthy treats that teachers often bake and bring to share. I couldn't partake. That's the world we live in. There are many sources of cheap, unhealthy foods that are easily accessible. It can be hard to find healthy foods.

Second was patience. I wasn't seeing the results as quickly as I wanted. Changes take time and consistently. Some days are harder than others. I learned to take it one day at a time, one workout at a time.

My goals are to continue competing in natural bodybuilding shows and to find a supplement sponsor. I earned my personal training certificate and want to be a positive influence by sharing what I learned. I have a unique opportunity because I work with children and childhood obesity is a huge problem in our country. I'd like to stand as a healthy example to my students.

I want to do some fitness modeling and influence my family by training my children how to maintain a healthy lifestyle and create lifelong habits that will be passed down for many generations.

The message I want to share is that you can do it. I'm a regular guy who put effort forth and experienced success. It doesn't matter who you are, where you're from, or what your profession or background is; everyone can have success. Believe in yourself, your goals, and hold nothing back. Keep in mind where you want to be and envision yourself reaching those goals.

Don't let others discourage you. There are many who try to discourage you. I call them haters, and there are plenty of them. Prove them wrong and show them and yourself that you can. Don't wait until later, do it now.

Bodybuilding.com had a huge influence on my success. The website is a never ending source of knowledge and support. When I need answers for anything to do with bodybuilding and fitness, I can find them here. The videos, articles, and posts motivate me to achieve my goals.

BodySpace helps me connect to others with similar backgrounds and goals to find strength. Bodybuilding.com is a great place to get supplements at great deals with superior information. I'm on Bodybuilding.com every day seeking knowledge and motivation.

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