Last Visit: Dec 3, 2009 2:13pm Last Forum Post:Never Last Photo Upload:Never Last Profile Update: Dec 3, 2009 2:13pm Last Blog Post: Aug 27, 2009 10:40pm
Overall Goal: Current goal is to replace all the fat I lost with lean muscle. I've received questions from several individuals asking how I trimmed down...I'm flattered you'd come to me for advice! Check my BodyBlog for the answer.
Fit Status:
So far, so good. Working on replacing all the fat I lost with some solid, lean muscle!
Motivation Level: 10/10
Personal Info And Background:
Real Name:
Mike
Sex:
Male
Age:
31
Location:
Collinsville, Illinois, United States
Occupation:
Personal Website:
Primary Gym:
College:
High School:
When I Started:
Feb, 2009
How I Started:
My entire childhood I was always the "skinny kid," a PURE ectomorph, 100%. Constantly teased about it, I always wanted a more muscular and athletic physique, but I never really acted on it to make it happen (I was clueless on how to do it anyway at that time).
As I grew older, I took my ectomorph tendencies for granted, and eventually (gradually), I began getting fatter throughout my 20's. Most people would have classified me as having an "average" body by the time I hit 30, and while I wasn't exactly a "fat" person, I definitely wasn't lean either. Poor eating habits and inactivity had finally taken their toll, and my metabolism simply wasn't what it used to be.
Finally, one day I just made up my mind to go after the body I wanted and I haven't looked back. I've done a lot of research on the nutritional side of the equation, as well as on how to work out and the way our bodies react to food and the physical stresses of weight training. As of the time of this writing, I've been at it for 4 months, dropped from 18% body fat down to high single digits, and have moved on to a bulking phase. My only regret so far is that I didn't do this sooner!
Why I Love It:
Its provides a great sense of accomplishment and self-fulfillment. I love getting stronger and watching my physique improve over time.
How I Stay Motivated:
Progress is the biggest motivator for me. I measure my body composition every week, first thing on Monday morning. I also take regular progress photos. Constant feedback helps me stay focused on my goals, and also tells me when I need to make some adjustments to my routine(s).
BB Accomplishments:
Went from 18% to 9% body fat in 3 months (Feb-May 2009)
Forum Signature:
"Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time, for that's the stuff life is made of."
- Benjamin Franklin
Here I am at the very beginning of my transformation! I weigh 182 lbs in this picture and my body fat is estimated at 17.9%, based on Accu-Measure skinfold.
I've lost some ab definition (slight fat gain), but I've also put on some muscle. I feel thicker through my chest, shoulders, and upper arms. Also getting stronger and more definition in the legs (though you can't see it from these shots).
Current goal is to replace all the fat I lost with lean muscle. I've received questions from several individuals asking how I trimmed down...I'm flattered you'd come to me for advice! Check my BodyBlog for the answer.
Goal (Long):
I want to completely transform my body. I've been at this for 4 months now, and so far doing great! I lost much of the fat that I wanted to (went from almost 20% down to high single digits in 3-1/2 months). Now time to replace that weight with some solid muscle!
Does anybody else think the motivation level tool on your Bodyspace homepage is completely pointless? I mean, is there really any reason to ever have it at anything besides 10? If I'm on this site actively doing things, chances are my motivation level is a 10. If I'm not, chances are...
thanks! I love this site. ive met a lot of awesome people and have seen some crazy transformations to keep me motivated! your transformation is definitely something to be proud about!!!!
great man, thanks.. 3 rd week, really been putting the extra effort in with diet etc. and seeing results already. Can't wait to be a few months down the line.
well keep it up, i'm following in your footsteps remember ! hah
No problem Mike! Credit's due where credit's deserve :D. Wow, 3,500 calories?! What are you intaking, if you don't mind me asking? BTW, I gained 11 lbs since I've started, with 2% body fat and the rest in muscle mass :D.
I gained a little bit of both, LOL! I guess you can't simply just gain lean muscle mass from taking in 3,000+ calories a day. I gained about 10 lbs in 6 weeks (from 160 to 170), with a 2% gain in body fat. Hopefully when it's time to cut, I'll shred the fat level down to single digit percentage :D
Mike, you look AWESOME. Huge noticeable change. You're my motivator, LOL. I started the bulking phase first, cutting last; still in the progress of bulking. I can't wait to start cutting and see the results after 3 months. Your profile is a great inspirer and motivator for the rest of us!
Hi.. yes, I'm just starting the whole process, I've flittered with the jim before but because commitments/travel etc, ive never fully gone through with it.
this time i am determined to make it.
I've decided to find people like you who are making it happen, just average guys,that are really making a change and surround myself with them for motivation.
Also by starting this I have public accountability for more drive..
