Last Visit: Jun 27, 2008 10:59am Last Forum Post: Mar 1, 2008 2:01pm Last Photo Upload: Apr 8, 2008 9:47pm Last Profile Update: Apr 19, 2008 11:40am Last Blog Post: Jan 30, 2008 7:44am
"To gain more muscle mass, and lose more body fat. Working very hard, and making progress, slowly but surely."
Personal Info And Background:
Real Name:
Sex:
Male
Age:
54
Location:
United States
Occupation:
Critical Care RN (CCRN) until Spinal Cord Injury Ended My Career
Personal Website:
Gym:
YMCA
Gym Location:
When I Started:
Sep, 2007
How I Started:
Surfing YouTube and saw wheelchair body bodybuilders. I have lots of body strength, but have balance problems and some weakness in my legs, and am dependent on crutches/wheelchair for mobility. I thought I could work out and develop at least my upper body.
I have a history of playing wheelchair sports for a few years, which has given me a start on some musculature of sorts, but I have never had a structured bodybuilding workout routine.
Why I Love It:
I love the seeing the changes happen, and the tired feeling of accomplishment after working out. The strong commitment keeps me focused on my ultimate goal.
How I Stay Motivated:
By the positive encouragement of others, seeing the progress of others, and by reading about bodybuilding and nutrition.
BB Accomplishments:
I have lost a total of 80 lbs. since September 2006. Since beginning weight training in September, 2007, I have lost another 6" in my waist, and have made good progress on a total body transformation.
Forum Signature:
"The greater the obstacle, the more glory in overcoming it" - Moliere.
Last Updated: Apr 9, 2008 9:10pm
Progress Pictures
Sep 5, 2007
Feb 22, 2008
255 pounds; I did not measure body fat; A LONG way to go!
To gain more muscle mass, and lose more body fat. Working very hard, and making progress, slowly but surely.
Goal (Long):
September 14, 2007:
I am 54 years old, have physical challenges from a spinal cord injury, and currently weigh 255. BUT, I have lost 60 pounds since January of 2007. I am continuing to slowly lose weight through exercise, and healthy food choices.
My goal within a year (September 2008)is to be much less fat and much more muscular.
I have a start on the musculature, but it is difficult to tell because of the weight I am still carrying.
I was able to begin a lifting program at one of the local YMCA branches through what is known as their "Physability" program, which is for individuals who have had strokes, medical conditions, or spinal cord injury as I have. This has been quite a change from the 30-year-old BULLWORKER exerciser I started working out with. on a fixed income.
The long-term goals I have set, which I believe are attainable, are:
1. Be able to look nice enough to compete in a wheelchair bodybuilding competitions sometime in the future.
2. To have a very strong and well-defined upper body physique.
3. To have a low percentage of body fat.
I welcome ANY comments, suggestions, instructions, etc. to help. I already know all the negative stuff about myself, and know I am nothing great to look at, so please spare me the negative comments.
After a trip out of town earlier in the month, I brought back with me the most wicked case of flu I have ever experienced. I have been stuck home, mostly in bed, and on antibiotics, for the past week and have lost a full week of training time :-(
This is what I am currently doing, M-W-F schedule.
Not sure of the correct names of some of the machines I am using - The first four are on a machine designed for wheelchair users - the others I am out of the chair and on the machine.
I hope you're still at it- your pictures show all your hard work! I'm starting back with isometrics to heal and strengthen my shoulder- it was really bad! thanks for the nice words!
Tink
Hey! Keep up the excellent work and have a great weekend!
michael daleguest
Apr 16, 2008 11:04am
just realised I could post a comment. I'd like your permission to print out your pics and use them as a motivational role model. I am in Australia, 56 ys old, had TERRIBLE health all my life, always wanted to lift weights and always forbidden. Died on operating table twice last year and in a coma for a month....woke up unable to walk. Can walk ok now, and took the bull by the horns and started at a gym. Lost 22lbs in 10 weeks.8 ins off waist.90lbs to go. you look GREAT. thx michael.
Looking over your profile your story is very inspirational. You have made great progress already. Keep it going!! Keep posting as you reach your goals.
