I was always more of an endurance athlete as a kid, and I was always pretty skinny. I started lifting weights "casually" to try and add some muscle mass and make my performance better. In college, I started working for a major sporting goods retailer, and I had plenty of time to read fitness magazines and apply what I learned in the gym. After that, I found time here and there to lift, but most of my exercise was cardio in the form of running or mountain biking.
I worked in retail for a long time, in a variety of roles, and was constantly moving, so my diet didn't seem to affect me too much, plus I was running 8-10 miles per week. I moved on to a very physically demanding job, reduced the running, ate better, and suddenly found myself in really great condition, however, I had to leave that job when I got divorced in order to take care of my son, and I now sit at a desk most of the day.
One day last fall, I slipped on a pair of slacks that I'd bought for my new career and suddenly found that I wasn't able to button them without sucking in my gut. I decided that was unacceptable and joined the YMCA to get back in shape, and in hopefully the best shape of my life. I want to be a great role model for my son and teach him healthy habits. The fitter I am, the more we can run around and play, which makes me a better dad, too!

Working out is a fantastic form of stress relief, which I find is incredibly important as a single parent! I love to make myself sweat furiously, and the incredible feeling of being pumped after a good session! The way that I can see my body changing is a great motivator, and it's always a plus to feel like I'm looking better naked...not that I have anyone to be naked for at the moment.