Spaceman
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Total Posts
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26
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Reward points
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10
- Joined: 7/14/2005
- Location: Montreal, Canada
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Status: offline
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Introduction, any suggestions, motivation, etc?
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Wednesday, July 20, 2005 8:04 AM
I know there is an introduction thread, but really, how many people actually read it?
Well, I guess I’ll introduce myself to everyone.
My name is Stephan and I have a weight problem. I’m 31 years old, 5’8” & 195lbs. Body fat is 28% according to a body fat scale I bought. I know they aren’t the best things but it gives a general idea. Anyhow, I’m the heaviest I’ve ever been, and I’m pissed off (and disgusted) at myself.
I’ve had some experience with bodybuilding in the past. When I was 15 I started going to the gym with a family friend and one of his friends, both in their mid to late 20’s. They were both pretty muscular guys and because I was a skinny runt, these were the guys I wanted to be like! Anyhow, I ended up training 3 time/week for about six months. In the sixth month, it came to my attention that these guys were injecting steroids. I didn’t know much about them but I knew I didn’t want to be like them anymore, not if it included serious drugs like they were taking. Therefore, I stopped working out altogether as I didn’t know anyone else.
Next experience was when I was 20. Lifted weights 3-4 days/week plus cardio 1-2 days/week. Did this for about 18 months and was starting to see some real nice results (muscle mass, 6 pack was forming, etc.), mind you I wasn’t over weight at the time. If I can remember correctly I was 160lbs. Also, I was on a mostly vegetarian diet. I ate meat & chicken maybe once per week. Ate fish 2-3 times per week. Workout routine I used was the one from Arnold’s Encyclopedia, those workouts kept me in the gym for 60-90 minutes each workout. Life got in the way (career mostly) and I stopped going after 18 months. Damn, I’m kicking myself now. Hindsight is always 20/20…
When I was 24-27 I did Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I loved it, but during one serious sparring session to prepare for a tournament I got hurt pretty badly (cracked sternum) which was my fault really. Now any pressure on my chest results in serious discomfort and pain the next day. Tried to go back multiple times, but the pain just isn’t worth it. I know this has nothing to do with weightlifting, but at least I was active during those 4 years.
Now to the present. Been going to the gym on-and-off for the last 9-12 months. Will go for one month, off for two, yadda, yadda, yadda… Personal issues kept getting in the way (home and career) and I would lose motivation to keep going. Well, now I’ve fixed my home issues (end result is I’m single now), still have career issues (might be shutting down my division but I have no control over this), so I’m ready to go! Problem is, I don’t know where to start.
There is a ton more information than there was just ten years ago! I have good results with Arnold’s workouts, but I don’t want to or have the time to spend 60-90 minutes in the gym 3-5 days/week. I don’t mind spending 45 to 60 maximum. I’ve looked on the net and I came across so many workout routines and what one person says is the opposite of what another says. I’m confused as hell… I did look at the MAX-OT workout, but I needed something to build up to the program so I started their primer routine. Done two weeks now, seems pretty good. Will continue to see what the results are after an 8 week period. There are two areas that I am having trouble with, cardio & nutrition.
Cardio, I just don’t do any… Will start next week on treadmill and/or stationary bike. Will go during off days. So, with weightlifting and cardio I think the only day I’ll take off is Sunday’s.
Nutrition, another area I’m confused as hell with. Well, maybe not too confused, might have to do with hating to cook. I’ll have to change that. I did buy the BFFM e-book and this guy seems to know what he’s talking about. I’m only at chapter 7, but I’ve learnt much already. One thing I have a question about is, should I be drinking protein shakes if I’m trying to lose body fat?
Anyhow, that’s it for me. If you’ve read the whole thing, I congratulate you and ask for any suggestions, tips, motivation, etc. that you can provide/help me with. I look forward to learning much from everyone here. You’ll be hearing from me!!!
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