arch47’s BodyBlog

We had just gotten some vacation photos back and there was one shot of me on the beach with a gut the size of Brazil!  That did it! I started reading anything I could on exercise routines and diet and the synergy that happens when you combine good habits. 

Full body workouts were done three days a week and cardio was done three times on opposite days.  One day was total rest.  Sodas were gone, water was in.  Sweets and desserts, extra helpings, and foods with empty calories were out as well.  On November 1st, I weighed approximately 185 pounds with a 37" waist.  This morning, December 22nd, I weighed 171 pounds and have a 34" waist that continues to shrink!  Last week was the first time in fifteen or more years that I purchased pants with a smaller size.  It felt great!

Currently, I am implementing a holiday diet plan that let’s me cheat a little (my mother-in-law makes awesome Christmas cookies) but keep a sense of purpose to my greater goal.  With two months to go before my 60th birthday, I am energized by what has happened so far and curious about what I will look like then.  I am already getting comments on the changes  that have taken place. Thanks to all who have offered advice and support and posting phenomenal transformation pictures.  It is inspirational!

Perhaps it seems strange that someone 59 would decide to undertake a body transformation.  The truth is, it is something I always wanted to do but never made the full commitment.  Growing up I was the classic ectomorph with very little muscle mass.  I could eat whatever and never gain weight and by my early 30’s I became the "fat" skinny guy.  With family and work responsibilities, finding time to exercise was difficult. By the time my mid-40’s came, I started exercising but it was sporadic and not very focused.  A year and a half ago we bought a Bowflex and my level of exercise increased to the point where I could feel the gain of muscle mass.  However, my diet was still out of control  so some of the results remained obscured.

I have always been proactive with getting physicals and following my physician’s directives but knew I could and should do more.  My father died at 68 and his father at 64 due to heart disease very likely brought on by smoking.  I do not have that habit but want to make my upcoming years as productive as possible by controlling whatever factors I can.