Stewart’s Blog

After starting at 2200 cals/day and dropping to 2000 and dropping again (1 week ago) to 1500, I am finally loosing some weight and loosing some waist.  1500 seems low for my size.  I’ll be tracking my weight weekly until I get to BF goal.  Then I may only do my tracking every other week as I try for adding those 15lbs on that I want.

I got some good advise and things to try for those cravings.  I’ll post what works. 

I get cravings for carbs in the evenings. A trainer friend of mine recommended more complex low-cal carbs (green veggies).  That helps keep me full.  These cravings aren’t about full. I get the cravings after my last meal (~6:00 PM).  I’m still full but I am READY for three bowls of ice cream, cookies, crackers–all bad stuff.  It’s only in the evenings.  I’m working to get past these by making adjustments in my eating. 

Whew!  I can’t believe the shape I’ve gotten in during the last 7-8 years.  Even the puny little getting started workout I’ve planned has whipped me.  At 45 I’m going slowly.  I’m in for the long haul.  I want to avoid or reduce any injuries or set-backs.  My cardio on non-lifting days is going great.  I’ve had my first strength training W/O. I’m meeting my goals so far for a start date of Sept 1.  I’ve taken my starting pics.  My cardio and strength training are started.  My eating is much improved. 

I’ll take the balance of my measurements and post when I get some of this non-lean mass off me.  Goal set for sometime in October. 

As I’ve not lifted much of anything other than the occasional shrub or garden tool in about 7 or 8 years, I’m starting out on a four-week break-in … warm-up … try-not-to-hurt-myself training plan.  Here it is…

 Two workouts/alternating days/3X week

One: Squat/Lunges/rows/push-ups/abs

Two: Deadlift/shoulder press/lat pulldown/abs

 I know it’s a strange collection of exercises.  I’m covering legs, back, shoulders, chest, arms, and abs–all the major body areas.  In week four I’ll step this up and get serious. 

Got started on my cardio yesterday and I’ve got my eating planned.  My wife has been a big help in that department.  She’s been packing lunches for me.  I’m working on my lifting routine and some short term goals.  

I am looking forward to increasing my level of fitness.  It’s been 7-8 years since I’ve worked out consistantly.  I’m getting schedules worked out, routines planned, eating habits reviewed and corrected, and goals set.  I’d like to be actively working out before September 1, 2007.  That’s my first goal.