Last Visit: Today, 5:50am Last Forum Post: Aug 31, 2009 10:43am Last Photo Upload: Nov 15, 2009 4:54pm Last Profile Update: Nov 18, 2009 6:09am Last Blog Post: Yesterday, 2:26pm
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).
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! IF YOU ADD ME ON ANY MESSENGERS, I ALSO EXPECT A PROFILE TO BE COMPLETED***
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 opportunities, 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: Nov 10, 2009 7:03am
What spring85sigma Is Up To:
Nov 21, 2009
spring85sigmaupdated Motivation Level from 8/10 to 8/10 and said: "REST!"
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 chest continues to improve! I also tried to catch my quads here because I have not taken a leg shot in a while. The quads are definitely improving due to the new leg workouts I've been doing. Lose a little more fat and they should be fine. Constructive feedback and criticism always 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)
MY FRAT! Normally that would be inspiration enough! But my Brother is awesome! Look at the physique--the result of years of hard work and dedication. He also has offered his assistance to his Blue-White family through his body group. Outstanding Brother! Keep up the good work! He will get that IFBB Pro Card!
This brother is a hardcore Bodybuilder, yet reached out to me who trains mostly with dumbells and bodyweight exercises. He has been very encouraging and uplifting in terms encouraging me to continue with my program and reaching my goals. Additionally, I have watched his amazing transformation since his last contest. DarkMuscle is looking awesome!
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: 78
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: 70
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: 80
An Honest Appraisal of How I Look at 45 Played: 73
Why I like this video: This is a complete bodyweight workout. I aspire to do this once I get the necessary equipment.
My Planche Training
Played: 211
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!
Bodyweight exercises core
Played: 171
Why I like this video: This is an interesting and challenging core exercise. I thought I'd share with those who are bodyweight exercise enthusiasts. I've tried this and can actually do it! So, it's in my new workout cycle. The move is called the half-burpee!
Today's workout more than made up for yesterday's. I felt really bad about the workout. I know that we can't be "on" all of the time. I had been spoiled by a pretty long string of great workouts. I guess missing meals and attending to a lot of family business takes its toll....
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...
Glad today was better for you. Workouts are going well and I have been on the clean eating, with no cheating for 5 days. Going to keep it clean until Thanksgiving and then try not to get too carried away.
How's your Grandma doing? Well I hope.
Hope the job situation turns around really soon. My eating has been out of bounds lately too. Man, I just can't go backwards, got get a grip and pay more attention to reaching my goals. Be blessed.
Hey man thats great. Youre a good dude man! Taking care of your grandma and all. The world needs more folks like you bro! You know how to prioritize your life. Gyms important. Not more important than family.
Let me see, you get zero "pump" when working legs and abs. There's nothing but pain. And for me, for days after, I still feel the pain. Why anyone would love working legs and/or abs is a mystery. Enjoy your leg hump day. Wednesday is cardio and abs for me.
You've been great...I removed all males I don't know (which was all of them) i was just uncomfortable with some people. I'm still gonna check in with you!!! I just have to put more effort in to do that!! HAVE A GREAT DAY!!!
Hey bruh... Thx for checking in on me. Im good & so is the progress (I think-lol). Just trying to get my consistency & endurance down and then begin on my bulking stage shortly. I will load pics shortly.
G.O.M.A.B.
Good Morning(s)! Just wanted to stop by and say that I appreciate seeing the outdoor shots you always have, looking good - how goes the low back training?
Brother I'm doing fine! Always great to hear from you. With the looks of your avi missing a few days won't show. As for me...I've been on track with my workouts and have been maintaining my weight. I'm glad about that. Been offline a few weeks. Was overcome by other events but still had my bb.com buds on my mind! This is one of my main sources of inspiration. Still keeping my goal of getting a waist line even though I just ate like a pig after church! LOL.
What's up guy??? I hope that all is well with you and yours. I am working like a crazy man these days. I am maintaining but I am not moving ahead like I had planned. School is really getting in the way. Looking great dude! Continued success!
