I had been watching my weight climb higher and higher for a decade and had failed at a dozen attempts to stop slipping down that hill. I had finally hit 220 lbs.--not just overweight--on the verge of obesity. It was a wake-up call. I gave up treats and began to make progress--for the first time in 10 years. But after a year of my best efforts, I had still only lost 10 lbs.
Then, on June 19th of last year, I found LiveStrong.com and it gave me the tools that made my journey possible.
It hasn't always been easy sailing. As I look at my weight loss chart on LiveStrong.com, I can see a 4-month period of setback-ing--I got sick, school got hectic, I got "holiday-itis" . . . and I gained back half of the weight I had lost. But early this year, I got back on that treadmill and began making progress again.
I even went from walking to jogging, something I never thought I would be able to do. Just a few months earlier, I couldn't get through 3 consecutive days of jogging without horrific pain from shin splints. Suddenly, I could jog again, and I began to dream of training for a race. In March, I ran my first 5K. I ran another in April and another in May. This month, I ran a 10K. I jog 5-10 kilometers (3-6 miles) six days a week.
And it feels great! Just over a week ago, I finally reached my goal weight of 170 lbs.--fifty pounds from where I began. (C thinks I look better at 175, so I've since put a couple of pounds back on.) It is SUCH a good feeling to have finally accomplished something that felt so impossible for so long. I literally feel better than I have in years--healthier, stronger, younger. And I have more energy than I've had in a long time.
I can't describe how good it feels to have reached this goal!
Now, my goals are changing. Rather than trying to lose weight, I now need to maintain my weight. And while that seems like it should be easier than losing, it's a challenge for me. Frankly, "just say no" is easier for me than "moderation in all things." Once I have some of something I love, it's really difficult for me not to overindulge. (It's already been a struggle--putting back on those pounds C recommended was way too easy--it took me one day! One! Do you know how long it takes me to lose 5 pounds???)
So I'm beginning a new adventure: welcoming chocolate back into my life without being dismembered by my inner Treat Hulk.
I'm ready for the challenge.
Bring it.
MOJ
This is AMAZING, congratulations on completing such an important life goal! You are a man of inspiration. That's great that you just finished a 10k, how did you like it?
ReplyDelete"It is always easier to gain than lose or maintain." Are you starting any type of weight training? If so remember that muscle is heavier than fat so don't be concerned if the lbs increase! :)
I use livestong.com too! I just started my boss, co-worker, and friend on a health challenge; they are trying to lose 20 pounds each :o. I have set each of them up with accounts and we are on our way to progress.
Good for you! And them! Yes, I'm doing some weight training, too, but my biggest focus is on the running. The 10K was great--blogged about it on 6/5 ("Race #4"). I SERIOUSLY had a flash of terror at the starting line, wondering if I could possibly survive it, but it turned out fine in the end, and I was really glad I had chosen that race over the 5K.
ReplyDeleteNow, I'm headed for the marathon. I've decided to do my own informal marathon next Tuesday: the first annual Makeshift Marathon. My street is almost exactly a mile long, so I'm going to do it right here in my own neighborhood--26.2 laps up and down my own street!
Plus, since I'll be so close to home, it'll be easier for Catica to come and rescue me when I pass out! Hee hee!
MOJ