I got started working out because itâs necessary for a healthy longevity. If I had not gotten up off of my butt to do something for my health I would either be on some major blood pressure and/or diabetes medication or dead. That was the guy you see in the white t-shirt right at 265lbs (see pics). One day for some strange reason, I experienced a strong desire of running in a marathon. I had read many testimonies and medical studies of how running helps one to lose weight, builds stamina, good for your cardiovascular system and is one of the exercises thatâs certified heart healthy.
So, in 2012 I started little by little working towards that goal. At first I started walking 20-30 minutes a day for about 3 weeks, and then I began to incorporate some light jogging along with my walks, to the point where I could run for at least 15 minutes straight without stopping. Over time I would increase my run-time where I was able to run for up to 30, 45 and 60 minutes without stopping. In March of 2012 I ran my first 10k at the Little Rock Marathon, and in September 2013 I ran my first half marathon in Conway at the Soaring Wings Half Marathon (2:46:45), and this year (2014) I ran in the Little Rock Half Marathon (2:46:47). Oh what a feeling it is to finish the two half marathons in under 3 hours.
Currently I've never felt better than I have before because I continue to eat healthy and stay as active as possible, but sitting behind a desk all day has its challenges. I constantly find myself feeling groggy and brain tired, so I during my breaks I have to step away from my desk and take a brisk 10 of 15 minute walk to clear out the cobwebs, which does the body as well as the mind a world of good. I also realize that there is another level I can go to become even more physically, and that is why I became more involved with Bodybuilding.com. I could have gone to a gym and gotten a membership, but I felt that would have been a waste of money since I have enough fitness equipment at home to open my own gym (Iâll post pick later of my home gym equipment).
My goal while Iâm here is to get into the best shape of my life, physically, mentally and spiritually. Iâm not going back to that guy you see in my before pics. I will not be stopped!
I love working out because its the healthy thing to do, and it makes you feel good about yourself, especially when you look in the mirror and see how all your hard work has paid off.