Monday, March 30, 2015
Week 11 Finished. Last week of 12 week competition!!!
03-30-2015
Well, folks. This is it. The last week of the 12 week bodybuilding.com Body Transformation online competition. Although I have 5 days left, I am going to take my 'after' photos tonight, because I know I will get busy this week, and I would hate to miss the deadline, so I will be posting them early. I should have them online by tomorrow evening. I want to thank everyone for your support, and I also want to let you all know that this is only the end of the beginning for me. I feel that I have made this a lifestyle change, and I am even more excited for what's to come with my body transformation, and general level of health and fitness. I hope I have inspired someone, and please feel free to leave me comments and/or questions. Thanks again!!!
Well, folks. This is it. The last week of the 12 week bodybuilding.com Body Transformation online competition. Although I have 5 days left, I am going to take my 'after' photos tonight, because I know I will get busy this week, and I would hate to miss the deadline, so I will be posting them early. I should have them online by tomorrow evening. I want to thank everyone for your support, and I also want to let you all know that this is only the end of the beginning for me. I feel that I have made this a lifestyle change, and I am even more excited for what's to come with my body transformation, and general level of health and fitness. I hope I have inspired someone, and please feel free to leave me comments and/or questions. Thanks again!!!
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Week 9/10 - Crunch Time!!!
March 24, 2015
Well, I don't have a video to go along with this week's post, because I have been super busy with work, and keeping my momentum going with my workouts. It is now the end of week 10, which means there are only 2 more weeks left in the competition. The closer I get, the more unsure I get of my chances. I know this is just my mind psyching myself out, but it's a hard hurdle to overcome indeed. I feel that I have been giving 100% at the gym, and my diet has been pretty good, not perfect, but good. I took some progress photos of myself with my phone the other day, and I can definitely see the changes, mainly in my muscle mass, but I just struggle to see the decrease in abdominal fat. I know this is typically the last thing to go, and it probably won't show until months after the competition ends, but I am convinced that I have made this lifestyle change permanent, so I am excited to see what else is to come down the road. Thank you for all your support, and I will have the final photos posted once the competition is over. Wish me luck.
Motivational tip of the week: Recognize your progress, and let it drive you further towards your goals. A great physique won't be achieved overnight, so don't give up.
Fitness tip of the week: Don't forget to hit each muscle from all the various angles. Don't neglect the odd exercises just because you don't see anyone else in the gym doing them. One of my favorite exercise is face pulls. They look kinda goofy, but hit the rear delts like most other exercises can't.
Nutrition tip of the week: Thin cuts of meat cook quicker. Remember this when you are short on time. I always try to have regular cuts of meat, because they are more cost effective, but I also try to keep some thin cuts handy as well, because I can cook them in a pan in no time. Quick protein.
Metal song of the week: Every Time I Die: A Typical Myrical
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHgAa5VTzKY
Hip-Hop song of the week: Outerspace: Written in Blood
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMfRme7b020
Well, I don't have a video to go along with this week's post, because I have been super busy with work, and keeping my momentum going with my workouts. It is now the end of week 10, which means there are only 2 more weeks left in the competition. The closer I get, the more unsure I get of my chances. I know this is just my mind psyching myself out, but it's a hard hurdle to overcome indeed. I feel that I have been giving 100% at the gym, and my diet has been pretty good, not perfect, but good. I took some progress photos of myself with my phone the other day, and I can definitely see the changes, mainly in my muscle mass, but I just struggle to see the decrease in abdominal fat. I know this is typically the last thing to go, and it probably won't show until months after the competition ends, but I am convinced that I have made this lifestyle change permanent, so I am excited to see what else is to come down the road. Thank you for all your support, and I will have the final photos posted once the competition is over. Wish me luck.
Motivational tip of the week: Recognize your progress, and let it drive you further towards your goals. A great physique won't be achieved overnight, so don't give up.
Fitness tip of the week: Don't forget to hit each muscle from all the various angles. Don't neglect the odd exercises just because you don't see anyone else in the gym doing them. One of my favorite exercise is face pulls. They look kinda goofy, but hit the rear delts like most other exercises can't.
Nutrition tip of the week: Thin cuts of meat cook quicker. Remember this when you are short on time. I always try to have regular cuts of meat, because they are more cost effective, but I also try to keep some thin cuts handy as well, because I can cook them in a pan in no time. Quick protein.
Metal song of the week: Every Time I Die: A Typical Myrical
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHgAa5VTzKY
Hip-Hop song of the week: Outerspace: Written in Blood
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMfRme7b020
Monday, March 9, 2015
Week 8 - Mix it Up!
March 9, 2015
Not a whole lot to report this week. Still on track, and sticking with my program. I worked out with a buddy one day this past week at his gym, and it was good to be in a different environment with different equipment, following a different routine. I used that opportunity to switch up my split, which I continued throughout the remainder of the week, and will continue to do so through the end of the competition. Also, I found a great video on youtube about proper bench press form, mistakes, and how to maximize your bench weight. When I tried this at the gym, and followed the instructions, I was able to add 20 lbs. to my set weight. WooHoo! Here's the link... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvDVVhvf8AY
Motivational tip of the week: Focus!!! Unless you are skipping to the next music track on your phone, keep it in your pocket. Don't get it out to check your facebook page, or to text your buddies. Maximize every minute that you are at the gym. You can check your tweets when you get home. Focus!!!
Fitness tip of the week: Try working out with a buddy, and letting them guide you through their routine, to see if there is anything you can add or substitute in your own routine.
Nutrition tip of the week: Made some of these today... http://prayingtoday.com/he-pours-eggs-and-cheese-in-a-muffin-tin-the-reason-im-trying-this/
Metal song of the week: Gojira: To Sirius
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5By-5mLHk4
Hip-Hop song of the week: Hopsin: Ill Mind of Hopsin 5. I chose this song because it appeals to my straight edge way of life, but this may not appeal to everyone.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRVOOwFNp5U
Not a whole lot to report this week. Still on track, and sticking with my program. I worked out with a buddy one day this past week at his gym, and it was good to be in a different environment with different equipment, following a different routine. I used that opportunity to switch up my split, which I continued throughout the remainder of the week, and will continue to do so through the end of the competition. Also, I found a great video on youtube about proper bench press form, mistakes, and how to maximize your bench weight. When I tried this at the gym, and followed the instructions, I was able to add 20 lbs. to my set weight. WooHoo! Here's the link... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvDVVhvf8AY
Motivational tip of the week: Focus!!! Unless you are skipping to the next music track on your phone, keep it in your pocket. Don't get it out to check your facebook page, or to text your buddies. Maximize every minute that you are at the gym. You can check your tweets when you get home. Focus!!!
Fitness tip of the week: Try working out with a buddy, and letting them guide you through their routine, to see if there is anything you can add or substitute in your own routine.
Nutrition tip of the week: Made some of these today... http://prayingtoday.com/he-pours-eggs-and-cheese-in-a-muffin-tin-the-reason-im-trying-this/
Metal song of the week: Gojira: To Sirius
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5By-5mLHk4
Hip-Hop song of the week: Hopsin: Ill Mind of Hopsin 5. I chose this song because it appeals to my straight edge way of life, but this may not appeal to everyone.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRVOOwFNp5U
Monday, March 2, 2015
Week 6/7 - Getting Out of a Slump.
March 3, 2015
Well, I didn't post last week, so I'm trying to catch up a little bit here. I have been under the stress of financial burdens lately, and have let them affect my mood, and motivation. I have still been going to the gym consistently, but have not given 100%, plus I have made a couple small, poor diet choices. Overall, not too bad, but I feel that I am getting out of the slump, so I need to give 110% to make up for it. In this weeks video I talk about surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who are working towards the same fitness goals as you, but to expand upon that, I think the key is to also surround yourself with those who are where you want to be physically, who have already accomplished what you are trying to accomplish. Feed off of their knowledge, and put it to work. I struggle with this a bit, because I am a bit of an introvert, so I don't actively seek out people to join me in my fitness endeavors. Also, the closest person to me, my spouse, does not share the same fitness goals as I do, so I don't have a constant partner at home. I hope to improve upon this, but for now I need to push myself as far as I can. Please feel free to leave a comment with your support and/or advice. Thanks!
Motivational tip of the week: Let your time in the gym be just that, time in the gym. Leave your worries at the door, and focus on why you are there. Get Some!!!
Fitness tip of the week: Don't neglect your core. The often overlooked muscles in your core provide support, especially for those who spend large amounts of time seated in a chair for work, or leisure.
Nutrition tip of the week: Mixing eggs and dry oatmeal in a bowl with a little cinnamon, then cooking it in a pan makes a great, healthy alternative to a pancake. Drizzle a little honey on top for taste. Makes a great protein & healthy carb combo.
Metal song of the week: Limp Bizkit: The Truth. Okay, I know I'm gonna get some crap for choosing this one. Look, I haven't been into anything this band has put out in over a decade, but I coincidentally stumbled across this song online, and there's no denying that it has a great groove, so get over the fact that it's Limp Bizkit, and give it a listen. Wes shows his passion while playing guitar, and Fred shows some great passion at the end of the video, just like he used to have in the old 'Three Dolla Bill' days.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGednQsQ-h8
Hip-Hop song of the week: Demigodz: Raiders Cap
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qIF6An7ZRec
Well, I didn't post last week, so I'm trying to catch up a little bit here. I have been under the stress of financial burdens lately, and have let them affect my mood, and motivation. I have still been going to the gym consistently, but have not given 100%, plus I have made a couple small, poor diet choices. Overall, not too bad, but I feel that I am getting out of the slump, so I need to give 110% to make up for it. In this weeks video I talk about surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who are working towards the same fitness goals as you, but to expand upon that, I think the key is to also surround yourself with those who are where you want to be physically, who have already accomplished what you are trying to accomplish. Feed off of their knowledge, and put it to work. I struggle with this a bit, because I am a bit of an introvert, so I don't actively seek out people to join me in my fitness endeavors. Also, the closest person to me, my spouse, does not share the same fitness goals as I do, so I don't have a constant partner at home. I hope to improve upon this, but for now I need to push myself as far as I can. Please feel free to leave a comment with your support and/or advice. Thanks!
Motivational tip of the week: Let your time in the gym be just that, time in the gym. Leave your worries at the door, and focus on why you are there. Get Some!!!
Fitness tip of the week: Don't neglect your core. The often overlooked muscles in your core provide support, especially for those who spend large amounts of time seated in a chair for work, or leisure.
Nutrition tip of the week: Mixing eggs and dry oatmeal in a bowl with a little cinnamon, then cooking it in a pan makes a great, healthy alternative to a pancake. Drizzle a little honey on top for taste. Makes a great protein & healthy carb combo.
Metal song of the week: Limp Bizkit: The Truth. Okay, I know I'm gonna get some crap for choosing this one. Look, I haven't been into anything this band has put out in over a decade, but I coincidentally stumbled across this song online, and there's no denying that it has a great groove, so get over the fact that it's Limp Bizkit, and give it a listen. Wes shows his passion while playing guitar, and Fred shows some great passion at the end of the video, just like he used to have in the old 'Three Dolla Bill' days.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGednQsQ-h8
Hip-Hop song of the week: Demigodz: Raiders Cap
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qIF6An7ZRec
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Week 5 - I Don't Want to Workout!
February 17, 2015
Well, this past week has been probably the most stressful week to date at my job. I won't go into details, but the stress really affected my mood, and attitude, so last night when I got home late from work, I really was not in the mood to go to the gym to workout. I just wanted to lay on my couch, and be lazy the rest of the night, but I knew that in order to have a fighting chance at winning this competition, I had to put in the work, and every day counts, so I got my stuff ready and went to the gym. Upon arriving, I still wasn't in the mood, not to mention the gym was super busy, and I hate that. I sat in my car a few minutes trying to mentally convince myself to just go back home, but I chose to stay. It took me a bit to get motivated, and get into a routine, but once I was able to focus, and mentally block out the crowd around me, I pushed myself to the max, and ended up plowing through a great workout. Driving home afterwards, I felt proud of the choice I made, and realized that it's a culmination of all the small victories that leads us to our goals, to achievement. Whether it be what to eat at any given meal or whether or not to workout on any given day, making the right choice will not only affect your attitude in a positive way, but also increase your determination to meet your goal.
Motivational tip of the week: Win the war one small battle at a time.
Fitness tip of the week: Make sure to hit each body part at least once a week. Don't spread your days out too far, or else your gains will not make the progress that you are expecting. Your muscles do need time to heal, but they also need to be pushed physically on a regular basis in order to grow. I try to hit each body part twice a week if possible, with rest days between each cycle of all body parts. Example: Three days split covering all body parts, followed by a rest day, then back to the three day split, followed by another rest day.
Nutrition tip of the week: Carbs get a bad wrap, but that is because they are sometimes misunderstood. Your body does need carbs for fuel, and muscle growth, but it needs the right carbs. Eat more healthy carbs like oatmeal, potatoes, & rice, and try to minimize unhealthy carbs like bread, bagels, donuts, etc.
Metal song of the week: Means End: Ominous Notions
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiXekulxwYI
Hip-Hop song of the week: Cunninlynguists: Urutora Kaiju
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXgCFMaTaDk
Well, this past week has been probably the most stressful week to date at my job. I won't go into details, but the stress really affected my mood, and attitude, so last night when I got home late from work, I really was not in the mood to go to the gym to workout. I just wanted to lay on my couch, and be lazy the rest of the night, but I knew that in order to have a fighting chance at winning this competition, I had to put in the work, and every day counts, so I got my stuff ready and went to the gym. Upon arriving, I still wasn't in the mood, not to mention the gym was super busy, and I hate that. I sat in my car a few minutes trying to mentally convince myself to just go back home, but I chose to stay. It took me a bit to get motivated, and get into a routine, but once I was able to focus, and mentally block out the crowd around me, I pushed myself to the max, and ended up plowing through a great workout. Driving home afterwards, I felt proud of the choice I made, and realized that it's a culmination of all the small victories that leads us to our goals, to achievement. Whether it be what to eat at any given meal or whether or not to workout on any given day, making the right choice will not only affect your attitude in a positive way, but also increase your determination to meet your goal.
Motivational tip of the week: Win the war one small battle at a time.
Fitness tip of the week: Make sure to hit each body part at least once a week. Don't spread your days out too far, or else your gains will not make the progress that you are expecting. Your muscles do need time to heal, but they also need to be pushed physically on a regular basis in order to grow. I try to hit each body part twice a week if possible, with rest days between each cycle of all body parts. Example: Three days split covering all body parts, followed by a rest day, then back to the three day split, followed by another rest day.
Nutrition tip of the week: Carbs get a bad wrap, but that is because they are sometimes misunderstood. Your body does need carbs for fuel, and muscle growth, but it needs the right carbs. Eat more healthy carbs like oatmeal, potatoes, & rice, and try to minimize unhealthy carbs like bread, bagels, donuts, etc.
Metal song of the week: Means End: Ominous Notions
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiXekulxwYI
Hip-Hop song of the week: Cunninlynguists: Urutora Kaiju
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXgCFMaTaDk
Monday, February 9, 2015
Week 4 - Warming up With Dynamic Stretching
February 9, 2015
Well, I am now one month into this competition, which is one third of the way through. I am still feeling confident, excited, and ready to win this thing. I think I mentioned it in the first post, but without the mental confidence, it is difficult to meet your goals. I have convinced myself that I already have this thing won, and that I am simply working out for the winner's photos. I try not to think about how many competitors there might be, because in reality, that is irrelevant. My desire to win has to be greater than my fear of losing. Anyways, that is not what this weeks post is about. In this weeks video I talk about ALWAYS warming up before a workout with some dynamic stretching. I am usually kinda tired when I first get to the gym, so I always make sure to warm up first, and my preferred method of warming up is with dynamic stretches, followed by some jumping jacks. You can search for dynamic stretching routines online, and you will find many variations that are great. Here is just one example... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4cTrMtVfBs. Without properly warming up, you risk wasting precious sets, because you will not be sufficiently primed for your first few set of weight lifting exercises, so get that heart pumping before you get crazy with the weights.
Motivational tip of the week: Surround yourself with people that will support you, and motivate you to meet your goals. Don't let someone else discourage you, because their lack of support might just stem from the fact that they lack the discipline to meet their goals, and they simply want to drag you down with them. getting fit is a lifestyle change, so get to know like-minded individuals.
Fitness tip of the week: As I mentioned in the above post, WARM UP! Don't jump into a routine unprepared. Maximize every set by being physically ready to give it your all.
Nutrition tip of the week: Check ingredients. In this weeks video I compare ingredients on a tub of margarine to real butter. Look for foods with minimal ingredients. Also, it's always good to see ingredients that you recognize. Keep it natural, baby!
Metal song of the week: Oh, Sleeper: Son of the Morning
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4A10teaSiQ
Hip-Hop song of the week: Army of the Pharaohs: Dump the Clip
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1x29OOt8-rc
Fitness tip of the week: As I mentioned in the above post, WARM UP! Don't jump into a routine unprepared. Maximize every set by being physically ready to give it your all.
Nutrition tip of the week: Check ingredients. In this weeks video I compare ingredients on a tub of margarine to real butter. Look for foods with minimal ingredients. Also, it's always good to see ingredients that you recognize. Keep it natural, baby!
Metal song of the week: Oh, Sleeper: Son of the Morning
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4A10teaSiQ
Hip-Hop song of the week: Army of the Pharaohs: Dump the Clip
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1x29OOt8-rc
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