This has been the best week for me! I finally, after months away, found my way back to the gym. On three consecutive afternoons, from Wednesday to Friday, I worked out for a full hour. I walked briskly and slightly uphill for about half of that time on the treadmill and then spent the remaining time using individual resistance machines for my abs, arms, thighs, legs and other long-neglected muscles. Needless to say, I feel extremely tired. I have not quite arrived at the point where a workout gives off energy but I feel great about myself and hope that this is the start of a good thing and not mere a positive blip in an otherwise failed attempt to straighten up and fly right.
I got home late last night and did not feel like making the meal we were planning, fresh fish with lemon, butter and tomato (in tin foil, on the grill) so we indulged in a plain pizza and French fries. The amazing part of the story is that I had only two slices and a handful of fries. Normally, I can put away four slices and an entire order of fried potatoes. My body is responding to my newfound commitment and my stomach has already begun to shrink, if only a bit. It is definitely taking less food to fill me up, which is amazing considering just last week I was out of control. This stage of weight loss is surely the toughest but also the most rewarding, as the changes at this juncture are immediate and feels tremendous. It is the next stage, the maintaining of momentum that usually trips most folks and me up. You will find out in a few days whether I have stumbled or expanded on my progress. Stay tuned!
I didn’t get to post in the forum this week, but wanted to share my workout soundtracks with you all. On Wednesday, I listened to “Belong”, the new Dinosaur Jr. album. It’s driving, melodic guitar riffs proved perfect for walking on the treadmill. On Thursday, Pela’s “Anytown Graffiti” was flowing through my eyes. Easily one of the best records of 2007, Pela’s up-tempo brand of rock music also served a workout well.
Have a great weekend.
Until Tuesday!
Dad’s Losing It articles are published every Saturday and Tuesday. Follow Jeff’s journey during the rest of the week in the Dad’s Losing It Forum. In the Forum, Jeff discusses his individual workout routines and soundtracks, among other tidbits and musings from the week.
Jeff is a Family Fun blogger. Read more of his posts here.