Started when I was 14, but lack of guidance, lack of a good solid diet, lack of a job at the time made the 1st two years of no progress.

2003 came along and some of my buddies started lifting, I joined in, increased my intake of calories drastically and put on about 30lbs from 130 that I originally weighed.

Got fired in 2004, with no source of income I had no choice but to put it on hold.

Then in 2005 I got in my car accident, which set me back an additional year.

2006 I wasn't much interested in getting in shape and was rather involved in a relationship. So it sat on the side again.

2008 I broke up with my girlfriend and decided to join the gym. Though I haven't gotten completely serious as I was back in 2004 I'm working on it.

The positive boost it gives me in life, the feeling of soreness, the feeling of accomplishment.