Remember that post My New Journey Begins where I stripped down practically neckid for you all and told you that I was going to kick my butt into gear and get myself into the best damn physical shape of my life?
Oh… and that my goal was to have the final unveiling be July 10th?
Well… July is coming up quick, but the journey isn’t going as drastically fast as I had hoped. And… as much as I had wanted to show off a new six pack and rippling pecs by then, it just ain’t gonna happen. At least not without a very long sit-down with my pal Photoshop.
That being said… it is still going to happen. Eventually. The timing now has just been changed to “when it happens.”
Which I think is healthier, and I’m okay with it because I’ve come to grips with a few things, the last three of which I’ll expound on in upcoming blog posts. And by upcoming, I mean next week’s first three main morning posts.
For now, I’ll show you a “current pic,” taken last week. You know, since you’re all just dying to see my pretty face.
Anyway, that’s where I’m currently at with things. And this is what I’ve come to grips with on this journey so far.
First, my body is way more stubborn than it used to be. Apparently burning fat in your thirties isn’t as easy as it was in your twenties. Packing on extra pounds, however, has certainly gotten easier, so I can’t complain that everything’s more difficult.
Second, building every major muscle group in your body to where they’re balanced, strong, sexy, and to where they cast shadows in the sunlight is gonna take a wee bit more than a few months.
Third, friends are more important than personal trainers. Both at the gym and at karaoke bars.
Fourth, if I want a body that’s healthy and fit for life, I have to build it in a timeline that’s realistic. I also have to do it by doing the things I can do every day, forever. Apparently working out thirteen hours per day, nine days per week isn’t the most realistic habit.
And finally, any time I obsess too much about it, I start slipping into old eating disorder habits, and worse. Like how a month and a half ago I found myself sitting across the desk from somebody who could do something drastic (and very unhealthy) to help it all happen. But I’ll talk about that in a few days.
I started this with a post called, “My New Journey Begins.” The funny thing is, I expected barely a journey at all. I just figured I’d blink and be at the destination.
Now I’m glad I called it what I did because that’s exactly what it has become and what I should have always expected it to be. I hope you don’t mind me sharing a few tidbits next week.
Dan Pearce, Single Dad Laughing
PS. What are some of the things you’ve learned as you’ve tried to get your body into better physical shape? What were things you expected but were unrealistic?
PPS. I wrote this and the next three posts before the Search and Rescue events of last weekend. It’s amazing how fast additional perspective can enter your life, and I thought it best to still share these before I share that story.
I've been on WW for almost 6 weeks now and lost over 7 pounds. A loss is a loss, especially for those of us who are sick with debilitating diseases that exercise will gladly throw us into a flare for attempting. :) I have severe Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyalgia so I get the setbacks notion. You can do it though. For every pound any of you lose, just imagine raw meat from the butcher, once you get to 10 pounds, think of sugar. Eew huh? :) Good luck
Personally I have learned that after 2 babies and 100 extra lbs..you just gotta say HEEEEELP to the ones you love and give it everything youve got. 1 lb at a time right? lol
I am -gasp- 42. I've had 3 kids. When I was a teen and in my early 20s, I could eat whatever I wanted and didn't worry about gaining weight. These days, it's SO MUCH HARDER. I've got Hypothyroidism, which doesn't help matters, and I find myself in situations where food and wine and desserts are such a social thing that I don't want to be the only one not indulging. I mean, who doesn't want to eat a Dodger Dog and drink a beer when at the stadium? But I just can't do that anymore, and I have to make special time for myself to hit the gym, or exercise some other way.I've thought about posting before and after pics, but I'm too vain to put it out there. I have between 10-15 lbs I'd love to lose. Perhaps when I reach my goal, I'll share the befores I've taken...You can do it, Dan! We all can, right? *sigh*
what a great look you have in your new profile picture
I hate folding laundry. Who doesn't? But today I found it to be unexpectedly gratifying as I refilled my drawer with freshly laundered workout clothes because that means I'm using them!
You're looking good. Hot really. Good for you. Can't wait to see the sculpted you...
A good friend of mine took photos <front and side> once a week while he was losing weight. When he'd hit a plateau or feel like he didn't look or feel any different than when he started he'd look at the photos to remind himself change was happening. Best wishes on your journey. My journey started when I was in the 7th grade and a friend who was 32 lb overweight told me, who was 7 lbs overweight, "Look we're both fat!"
Metabolism! Energy in/energy out! Etc! You look great!
keep going Dan, my journey started four years ago and 60lbs ago and I'm still going. I have found that 1- getting older is a b*tch when it comes to getting your body to get in shape and 2- it's not about the numbers, it's the stamina and the way I feel about myself now. It has been an incredible journey not just phyiscally but emotionally, so keep going and find that thing that just suddenly clicks inside of you and makes you want to never stop.
It is always a longer journey than we expect. And most of us tend to "guess" wrong when deciding how much time something like that will take, cause knowing all the variables is impossible!
I have been on the weight loss journey and now maintenance, losing almost 200 lbs. in my 60's. I congratulate you for starting now and realizing this is for life. This isn't about a diet and exercise for x time until you reach some goal. Please, please remember this is for your life and it is establishing habits that will stay with you and your family. You are helping to fight obesity for the world. Keep focused and determined and be honest with yourself!
Awesome Dan!!! Keep up the great work!!!
You're always so insightful! And if you think it's harder to lose those pounds in your thirties, wait until you hit 40! I'm not looking forward to the 50s for that reason!
You look terrific! And you are definitely taking the right approach. Eating right and exercising properly is a lifestyle, not a temporary fix to get to a goal, only to be abandoned once the goal is reached. I made a the same decision to get in shape at the beginning of the year, so I signed up with Weight Watchers. I'm happy to say the plan works very well for me and I have lost 38 pounds so far this year. I can't even conceive of going back to my old bad eating habits (deep fry it and wrap it in bacon was my motto!!). I've still got about twenty or so pounds to go and I know I can get there. I don't care if that takes me three months or six. I just promise myself to do the best I can every day. If I slip up now and then, it's not a big deal as long as I get back on the horse again. Patience and commitment are key. Good luck on the rest of your journey. I know you will do great!!! :)
http://www.fitness4homeonline.com/images_products/stepmill_776big.jpg
Try the Stairmaster... and, no, I don't them...
Good luck on your journey! I am on one of my own and it takes a ton of dedication and commitment! Keep it up and work to do your best everyday! Free To Be Beautiful
I remember eating 1 salad in my 20s and loosing a few pounds. Then I hit 34 and gradually gained 20 pounds. I knew that number would just keep going up, so I started with weight watchers. Then- In the last 2 years I have slowly incorporated physical therapy for my crap knee, 3+ a week crossfit or other work out, eating a paleo diet and look and feel better than I have in years. I am stronger than I have ever been. The big thing for me is finding a community of like minded individuals that make good choices part of every day life. Deprivation is a non-issue now. But it isn't a journey with a final destination it is now my daily life. Find that community that works for you and you will add a whole new outlook on your life.
You are doing the right things the right way, healthy physically and emotionally...keep on going! You are great!
Wtg! It is a journey. Sometimes we falter or get off track. I did p90x for about 40 days then the hubby's schedule got hectic, we stopped & never picked back up. Took a few months and a college class to get my momentum back. I've started walking 3 times a week (3-5 miles). That's how you are going to get healthier & stay healthier. Exercise almost daily. That's what has kept my almost 90 year old grandmother so healthy.
Dan, you are amazing and wonderful just as you are and the most important thing about this journey is that you ARE doing it for you! You've already come so far. Long-term changes take a long time to implement and to be healthy and lasting, can't be rushed. I sure hope you find every happiness that You deserve. The right lady will come along one day and love you for you anyway. I love reading your posts and relate a lot! Go you! ;)
It never cooperates when I try to post comments directly on the blog, so I'll post here: First, you've made a lot of progress, from the looks of it, and you should give yourself some credit. Second, we're about the same age and I'm built about like your "Before" picture, so you give me some inspiration.
Dan, you look fantastic! I think the bigger questions are: what do you want to accomplish, and why? You look healthy and seem happy, so don't sweat the rest of it. Getting in shape IS an ongoing journey, but certainly not outside the realm of possibility. DH and I are at different stages in that process, and our goals are really geared towards maintaining the good health we have thus far enjoyed. Six-packs not included!
great going!
It's been a rough journey for me too. Working out can be very empowering though. I feel stronger than I ever have. I just have to stop looking in the mirror so I don't get discouraged. You are looking great!
You look super hot and sexy in that pic Dan! As someone who also deals with past eating disorders I have to be super careful about what I do. I was an anorexic who also had exercise bulimia, therefore, I can't obsessively portion control, but I also can't obsessively workout. I'm still trying to find a healthy balance between the two. Losing weight and gaining muscle is way harder in your thirties, doesn't seem fair does it? You look good, you're active, M&M's are totally a health food at least in my life as chocolate helps keep me sane, you're doing a good job as a dad. That's what counts, keep doing better, keep improving if that what makes you happy, but you're at a good place now too.
Dan, it looks like you've made tremendous progress, so don't be so hard on yourself. At least you're going in the right direction! And, if you think it's hard in your 30's, wait until you get in your 50's ;) Setting reasonable goals that are sustainable works better for the long-run and trying to be as healthy as you can be is more important than being a swimsuit model. I'm sure even Channing Tatum kicked the diet and exercise routine up several notches getting ready for Magic Mike ;)
Hey Dan...reading the posts, seems to me that there are a lot of ladies that find you attractive just the way you are...don't need the six pack to be attractive, just a nice personality......I'm sure you will have no problem getting dates and not being single for long...:)
Years ago I went to a weight loss center that focused upon the non diet approach. There I began to realize the full scope of what you need to conquer in order to master the art of self care.
The biggest aha I've had on this journey is that the source of my motivation had to come from a place that was in tune with my values. That motivation for me is helping someone else. Supporting someone else in their goals by setting a good example does the trick for me.
The ego is one nasty beast though. My ego is comfortable with my current level of fitness - and I know exactly why.
You look great, and you have a terrific sense of yourself.
I think you look damn sexy now!
Its so damn hard to get into shape. I'm not even concerned with losing weight, just being healthy but that's friggin hard. it doesn't help that i work for a food andbeverage company!
@nikagurl5889 I figure I AM in shape. Round is a shape, isn't it? LOL That being said, making healthy choices daily when we are surrounded by good-tasting crap IS challenging. A fruit bowl by my desk at work helps.
DeeDee
www.KidNeedsAkidney.blogspot.com
Keep up the good work! I have been at this myself for years and settled down to a "realistic" work out that I can manage on a daily basis. I am thirty pounds less and feeling awesome two years since I started. My journey continues too.
I expected to be in great shape only weeks after I began, but realized good things take time.
I think you're sexy Dan. (Hope that is okay coming from a guy.) I, too, would like to build myself up but I also know I no longer have the discipline to do so. My hat is off to those who do.
you should try chia seeds...out your way they should be easy to get a hold of...one of the best little foods you can eat...look them up, you'll be amazed
Wow, nice work!
Wow!!!! You look great! You should be very proud of yourself.
Your looking fine (to me at least) ... but journey on ... to where you are happiest :)
Wow...you are hot. I bet you get lots of women admirers wanting to date you. I hope the producers come back and make that show a reality. :) Pun intended.
OH DAN! If I had a dime for every exercise program, diet, life style change I have make to adjust my body image.... I'd be a little richer. I am so glad you have seen the light and that you are going to take the healthy approach. Getting healthy is always a better goal that getting ripped with a six pack! Getting healthy and feeling better about yourself, who you are right now, should always govern our choices about what we do and put into our bodies. Will we make mistakes and think a box of twinkies might make us happy right this second at times? Yes, but hopefully after one, we both will think it isn't and stop. I love your pic and I think you look so hot! But you know what? Doesn't really matter what I think or anybody else thinks if you don't. Keep making healthy choices and keep smiling (one of your best features)!!! Good luck on your journey.
PS you think losing weight at 30 is rough? Try 40 Buddy! Luvs!!
@CrissyLance
Or FIFTY. It can still be done! Carry on!
DeeDee
http://kidneedsakidney.blogspot.com/2012/06/affordable-health-care.html
you look awesome Dan ...and that Tshirt is the perfect color for you :)...and i'm proud of you for sticking with what you decided to do for you!
Hmmm, interested to hear your lessons. I have also recently learned that getting back into shape in my 30's isn't quite the same process as my 20's. It was a lot of fun getting out of shape, and I plan on having just as much fun getting back into shape! (Although one definitely involves a lot more sweat, lol)
Okay, you're already doing better than most of the folks I know! Excuse me, going to find a fan because you are smokin' HOT.
You look great! Keep up the good work you will be proud of your accomplishment and feel more confident in the long run
Wow, I think you look great, already! Great progress!
I have been on a similar journey since Feb. of 2011. And I have definitely found that the key to it is making changes that are forever changes not get-there-quick changes. I have lost 65lbs since the start, which is slow progression that took a lot of patience (and was also affected by holiday sugar indulgence set backs), but I did it! Me, not my friend, not my relative, me, it was all me. All by me and all for me. Sometimes just taking the first step and committing to yourself that you are going to do this is the hardest part. I am now very near my goal weight and want to extend my goal another 10lbs.
What is hard now is hearing people say "How skinny do you want to get??" "You don't need to lose any more weight" "You won't be healthy if you lose any more weight" etc. While most of them are probably well-meaning, it diminishes my efforts to get to be the best me I can be. I don't have a goal size in mind and my goal weight is actually in the mid range of what is a healthy BMI is for me, but it's easier to measure in lbs. So for any of you out there wondering what to say to someone who is losing weight and looking great, just say that: "You are looking great!" And for those of us who are losing weight, we also should not diminish our progress by responding to comments like that by pointing out all our problems areas that are not looking so great to us yet. The appropriate response to said comment is: "Thank you!"
@HeidiW Congrats on your weight loss, I bet you feel an amazing sense of empowerment and pride - as you should! In reference to your comment below on calorie intake, you're right. Often our workouts don't burn a high amount of calories, that can we could just avoid eating in the first place. But, doing regular exercise that reduces your resting heart rate and increases muscle mass will boost your metabolism and burn more calories at rest, so that you can indulge in cheese a little more often. And isn't that what it's all about? More cheese? Kidding you are surely seeing food as fuel and that is a great way to see it 90% of the time. ;)
I did read in a running magazine (a great inspirational tool, FYI) an interview with a Sports Medicine Doc. He said if given the choice of one OR the other, a person is healthier if they exercise and eat poorly vs one who eats very well and never exercises. Neither lifestyle is recommended, though, maybe consider adding a fun rec sport to your routine and see if the last 10lbs sheds that way? I'll stop preaching.
As for your friends, that suggest you stop "losing", I think I've met them. They are the ones that have put you in a little box (possibly mid-sized box) and are uncomfortable with you leaving it. Jealousy? Concern for your health? Change-a-phobes? Doesn't matter. If you really are healthy, you leaving the box is their issue, not yours.
@MelK Yes, definitely exercise is important for your health, I am not saying people shouldn't exercise, but exercising to lose weight will put a lot of stress on your body and your mind. For me going to a gym or doing workout videos gets old and boring and then I give up. I exercise by doing yard work, walking everywhere (I don't own a car), and just going on adventures with my kids. I exercise to make my body happy, not to lose weight.