I started working out because I came to the point where I was tired of the way I looked and felt. I have 3 young children and after working 12 hour days I found it hard to come home and have any energy to play with them. My blood pressure was also getting out of control and my doctor had talked to me about putting me on medication for that. This was a big wake up call for me knowing that my grandfather died from a heart attack in his 50's. I wanted to live a healthier life and enjoy my family. I knew it was time to take action. This however proved to be more difficult than I thought do to an injury sustained six years prior. I fractured a sesamoid bone in my left foot. After spending almost six months in a cast it never healed. As a result I had to have the bone removed permanently from my foot. I still have pain and can feel the affects of the muscle atrophy to this day. This was something that I knew I was going to have to face and push past. Focusing on the strength and body that I want helps me to push on even when my foot and ankle are sore and tired.
Luckily I work with a great group of guys that helped me get started and kept me motivated. My wife was also very encouraging and helped me tremendously with food prep and motivation. However, shortly after starting I quickly ran into problems. I injured my shoulder bench pressing and was forced to cut out chest exercises altogether, so while I waited for that to heal I focused on legs and back. About 5 months after my chest injury(still with pain in my shoulder) I suffered a second injury by tearing the casing around the cartilage in my wrist. As frustrating and disappointing as it was I wasn't going to let that stop me. I was still able to work my legs so with my wrist immobilized I continued on with my squats. Now after 8 months of no chest workouts and 3 months without any upper body exercises I am finally able to get back to work. I feel more motivated than ever!
I love to workout because it keeps me healthy and full of energy. This is a huge benefit when it comes to trying to keep up with my children. I also love being a good role model for them and helping them to learn healthy habits. I love how contagious and motivating it can be to others around me. I have since motivated my wife and others to push themselves and gain a healthier standard for living.