Last Visit: Today, 6:40am Last Forum Post: Aug 31, 2009 10:43am Last Photo Upload: Yesterday, 2:20pm Last Profile Update: Nov 6, 2009 3:59pm Last Blog Post: Yesterday, 2:36pm
Overall Goal: I want to continue to make changes to my physique (gain muscle while maintaining low bodyfat). I want to look better at 46 than I do at 45 (Sept 3).
Fit Status:
Getting an early start..arms and shoulders...then off to dialysis with Grandma.
When I was in junior high school I played football, wrestled, and ran track. However, when it was apparent that I wasn't going to grow past 5'7", I started to take my musical instrument and academics seriously. I marched in the band through the remainder of my high school years and did not pursue any more athletic activities. After three degrees (VIRGINIA TECH and OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY), I found that I had gained weight. I got up to 185 pounds at one point and knew that I needed to get back in shape. While pursuing my doctoral studies at Syracuse, I began to take getting myself back in shape very seriously. I lifted heavy weights, combined different types of cardio, and watched my diet to get into really great shape. Depending on where I have been in my life, I've found it either more or less difficult to maintain my body. This most recent cycle of working out began in March of 2008 after approximately one year lay-off.
Why I Love It:
At my current age, 45(September 3), the challenge is how much can I push myself and transform my body. Many people seem to think that after a certain age, it is impossible to get into top shape. I've never believed that.
How I Stay Motivated:
Simple, I want to look the best I can. I am also enjoying the challenge of challenging and changing my body by tweaking workouts, using novel exercises, and, having been on here since October 2008, I've enjoyed meeting focused, helpful supportive people who want to live better and get fit. Hopefully, I can motivate and help a few people as well. I must thank all of my BodySpace friends who have really encouraged and motivated me during the past year to change my body!
BB Accomplishments:
Finances and distance have prohibited my joining a gym and purchasing fitness equipment. In essence I have had to create the workouts (with a lot of research and study) that have helped me to get to where I am now (progress pics for 2009 do show the difference). I don't have the biggest or best body on here, but I am fit and I know it!
I've accomplished my latest fitness goals with two 20 and two 30 pound dumbells, an exercise ball, a lot of bodyweight exercises, a pull-up bar, and a mixture of cardio. I work out 5 days per week. My workout rarely exceeds 90 minutes in length.
I am looking for people who have experience in bodyweight exercises and in using alternatives to standard weights. I use a lot of pushups (different positions), squats (with or without dumbbells, one-legged, etc.), Lunges, and other exercises.***
I'M LOOKING TO LEARN NEW AND DIFFERENT THINGS ABOUT FITNESS AND BODYBUILDING AND WANT TO MAKE NEW FRIENDS.***
IN THE PAST, I MUTUALLY RECIPROCATED ALL FRIEND REQUESTS REGARDLESS OF WHETHER THE PROFILE WAS COMPLETE OR NOT (PICTURES, IDENTIFYING INFO, GOALS, ETC). I REGRETFULLY WILL NO LONGER DO THIS. A PERSON WITH NO PROFILE WHATSOEVER RUINED MY BODYWEIGHT EXERCISE THREAD. ALTHOUGH THE THREAD WAS REINSTATED AFTER A TIME, IT NEVER RECAPTURED ITS INITIAL VIBRANCY!***
PEOPLE OF ALL FITNESS LEVELS, WORK HARD, PUT THEIR PICS, PROFILES, WORKOUTS, ETC. OUT THERE FOR OTHERS TO OFFER FEEDBACK. IS IT FAIR THAT SOMEONE WHO DOES NOT DO THE SAME THING BE ABLE TO OFFER CRITICISM? I THINK NOT!***
ASIDE FROM THAT LITTLE PET PEEVE OF MINE, FEEL FREE TO LEAVE A COMMENT OR CONTACT ME! I LOVE TO MEET NEW PEOPLE AND, IF POSSIBLE, ENCOURAGE THEM TO STRIVE FOR SUCCESS! I have decided to pursue an ISSA Physical Training Certificate and would be appreciative of any feedback, advice, discussion of the work oppotunities, and the certification process from ISSA certified physical trainers!***
I WISH ALL MY BS FRIENDS AND MEMBERS SUCCESS IN ACHIEVING THEIR BODYBUILDING AND FITNESS GOALS! I HAVE A SMALL BODYGROUP THAT IS DEDICATED TO THOSE WHO HAVE LIMITED ACCESS TO THE GYM AND/OR GYM EQUIPMENT. I HAVE POSTED VIDEOS, LINKS, ARTICLES, ETC. THAT SUPPORT THE MISSION OF MY GROUP. STOP BY AND SAY HELLO!***
FINALLY, CHECK OUT MY RECENT THREAD IN THE OVER 35 FORUMS, "OVER 35 BODYWEIGHT EXERCISE ENTHUSIASTS."
THERE ARE SOME GREAT POSTS AND SUGGESTIONS FOR EXERCISES FROM SOME AMAZING PEOPLE.***
CONTINUE TO PURSUE YOUR BODYBUILDING, FITNESS, AND TRANSFORMATION GOALS IN THE WAY THAT WORKS FOR YOU!***
TAKE CARE EVERYONE!
Forum Signature:
Andrew W. Harris Jr., MA, MS
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Doctoral Student
Counseling and Human Services
Syracuse University
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Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University
B.S. Ed. & M.A.Ed.
GO HOKIES!
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Old Dominion University-M.S.Ed.
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Greetings to my illustrious Brothers and Sorors of the Zeta Phi Beta Sigma Family!
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GO STEELERS!
Last Updated: Oct 21, 2009 8:13am
What spring85sigma Is Up To:
Nov 9, 2009
spring85sigma updated Motivation Level from 8/10 to 8/10 and said: "Now that I'm awake, I feel great! Wishing everyone a wonderful day!" - 5:31 am - Comment
spring85sigma updated Fit Status "Getting an early start..arms and shoulders...then off to dialysis with Grandma." - 5:30 am - Comment
Nov 8, 2009
spring85sigma updated Fit Status "Good workout...Great Sunday Dinner...Now to sleep...Long day on tomorrow!" - 7:04 pm - Comment
I've been searching my archives to try and find a picture of me out of shape. I can't find those I took in March of this year when I started my fitness quest. But I felt it important to post this. Until recently, I let how my life was going impact how I took care of myself. I was in Syracuse at the ...
The back continues to be a work in progress. Some growth and definition is emerging. It is a slow process for me. Constructive feedback and criticism appreciated.
I want to continue to make changes to my physique (gain muscle while maintaining low bodyfat). I want to look better at 46 than I do at 45 (Sept 3).
Goal (Long):
By September 3, 2010, I wish to:
1. Have increased my overall muscularity (starting to feel "skinny") especially in the arms, chest, and back. This means I need to eat more protein! I've never had a big appetite, so I probably lose some of my bodyfat because I don't eat enough! LOL!
2. Find novel ways to add challenge to the bodyweight portions of my workout.
3. Be at approximately 6-8% bodyfat.
4. Display a "cleaner" set of abs!
5. Be able to complete at least 5 of those bleeping planche push-ups! LOL!
6. Increase my stamina and endurance!
7. Obtain a physical training certification (ISSA)
What can I say? "T" seems to post an inspiring comment, or rate one of my sometimes not so good pics, just when I'm feeling a little down about my progress. I can always count on that. I'm amazed at his work ethic which is leading to his amazing transformation! Keep it up T!
Personification of "Coolness!" Provides great and timely feedback when is least expected. He's a great source of inspiration. Always pushing himself to the next level.
How has bodybuilding and fitness helped and/or changed your family life?
My nephews see me as somewhat of a role model. The two oldest are taller than I am and have tried to wrestle their "old uncle" and been soundly defeated. They seem not to be able to reconcile my having gray hairs and being in shape. In fact the youngest nephew and niece, he 3 and she 6 tell uncle to shave at the first sign of gray razor stubble. But they like jumping up on their short uncle and if I wasn't in reasonably good shape they would knock me over! :) My 91 year old grandma told me she wishes she could exercise. I keep telling her that she can! LOL! Overall, my family is very receptive to my being fit and often will ask about diet and exercise. My nephews see me as somewhat of a role model. The two oldest are taller than I am and have tried to wrestle their "old uncle" and been soundly defeated. They seem not to be able to reconcile my havin...more
- Updated Feb 4, 2009 7:21am
What is the most dangerous weightlifting exercise? Why?
For me squats using barbells. I've found the exercise to be very hard on my back and knees. When I'm able to go to the gym, I've always substituted machine based exercises to replace squats.
Description: This is my first attempt at any type of public video. Please excuse the quality. I am attempting to demonstrate some of the leg exercises that I use. Any feedback would be appreciated.
Two variations on Hanging leg Raises.wmv
Played: 75
Description: Just doing some hanging leg raises. Trying out the video capture feature on the new camera and still breaking in my new pull-up bar. Nothing special. LOL! Still any feedback is appreciated.
Stability Ball Push-ups-Two Variations
Played: 68
Description: Once again, playing around with the camera. Doing some push-ups using the stability ball. Plus, I wanted to check my form. I've been concentrating on my chest and want to make sure I'm doing the exercises with as good a form as possible. As always constructive feedback and suggestions are appreciated.
Give Me 15 Pull ups! Spring85sigma Played: 74
An Honest Appraisal of How I Look at 45 Played: 73
Basic Stretching Exercises : How to Create Daily S
Played: 94
Why I like this video: Although I stretch during my workouts. I don't have a systematic way of doing it. This is the first in series of videos that will assist one in developing a stretching routine.
This video is courtesy of Expert Village.
My Planche Training
Played: 204
Why I like this video: This young brother, a member of this site, got me inspired! Because I don't have much in the way of weights, I had looked all over for bodyweight exercises. For chest, I use a LOT of push-ups (view my workouts and/or bodyblog to see what I do). But when I saw this brother perform the planche push-up I felt had to master it and I will. Here he shows some exercises to do that will assist one in working up to the exercise!Thank you again sir!
Basic Stretching Exercises : How to Stretch Your S
Played: 54
Why I like this video: This video shows how to effectively stretch the shoulders! This video comes from www.expertvillage.com
Bodyweight 500 Played: 125
Basic Stretching Exercises : How to Stretch Your B Played: 65
Basic Stretching Exercises : How to Stretch Your C Played: 36
Today's workout was essentially a "make-up" from Friday. Grandma started her dialysis and I spent the time with her. This was her first time at the new center. Her earlier treatments had been conducted while she was in the hospital. She had to go through her "intake...
Workout Cycle 14 begins on Sunday October 25, 2009. This exercise cycle continues to be my attempt to provide diversity and challenge to my workouts. I will continue to concentrate on using lower reps and good form. I will also continue using a backpack with at least 30 pounds...
Man good to hear from you and the news on your grandmother. I'll have it on 100 mode after worship today. Have to give God His 1st. Then it's off to the gym to do legs.
You are continuing to do well with your outside landscape pics. I am starting to go into the winter bulking phase and willt trim down in the spring. You doing good man. You keep me inspired.
So glad you stopped by and thank you for the picture rating. I always love your profile pics. You have a knack for picking really refreshing, natural happy backgrounds!
Man its been a great challenge at work. New system! But I'm keeping it 100 there and at the gym. Might be doing that Friday thing we were doing again. I've bulked up and know its time to widdle down bruh!
so, this is your weather. Not me! I like summer - the less clothes to wear the better :) Those trees still like mighty green. Almost everything has turned colors in Jersey. I hate racking leaves - you can have the fall! LOL
Thanks, man. Appreciate it. Yours do too. I've heard about u & that u don't have a gym around so u do all bodyweight exercises. They obviously work, judging from ur pics. Keep it up. I wanna stay as fit as u when I grow up (aka get older) lol.
