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| AGE 53 HEIGHT 6'0" WEIGHT 287 lbs BODY FAT 30.9% |
AGE 54 HEIGHT 6'0" WEIGHT 187 lbs BODY FAT 13.7% |
I decided to transform after acknowledging that I was unhealthy and my physical condition was deteriorating. My waist size ballooned to a 42 and I was wearing extra, extra large shirts. More importantly, I was required to use a sleep apnea machine and was prescribed high blood pressure medications.
At one point, I couldn't climb a set of stairs without losing my breath. In short, I wanted to be healthy again and feel good about myself.
When I made up my mind to create a healthy life, I developed a plan to reach my final goals. I did it with the help and assistance of Tracey Carson, my personal trainer, who created my workout and diet regimen and provided a permanent voice of encouragement.
The biggest hurdle was learning how to change my built-in patterns and how to prepare food without allowing my old habits to interfere. In the past, I worked long hours and ate in an engaged feeding frenzy. It started early every day and continued until I went to sleep.
I consumed anything readily available including processed food and take out, and made frequent restaurant visits. There were days when it was beyond tough, but those around me tolerated the moody times and supported my dietary changes.
The most challenging aspect was the overall lifestyle change. I had to constantly make sure my excuse box was closed for reasons not go to the gym or to prepare my meals.
I overcame it with support and direction from my trainer, Tracy Carson, of TLC Training and the support and words of encouragement from family, friends, and people at Gold's Gym in Milford, Massachusetts.
I plan to continue working hard and competing in bodybuilding competitions.
As a member of Team Xtreme, I finished the year in November at the Monster Mash INBF run by Nancy Andrews and placed first in the men's over-50 category.
Don't ever give up or lose focus. Be relentless on your way to results at the end of the tunnel. Overcome bumps in the road and get back on the right path. The journey to transform your body takes strength and determination during times when you stray off course.
Don't be afraid to ask for help. Most people who love fitness can't wait to share new ideas. They embrace those who have an interest to be fit and improve their life. Create an environment conducive to your success. Rid the house of food that is tempting and make sure you have access to foods you need to succeed.
Bodybuilding.com is great source for all kinds of information and inspiration. It has new exercises to insert into your workouts, and ideas for snacks, meals, and supplements. Most importantly, it explains why to add certain foods to your diet and what they mean to fitness and health. It was a major resource for all aspects of my transformation journey.