guitardude's weight loss adventure - Page 5

guitardude · 08-20-2007, 05:28 PM

While I'm here, I might as well update on the exercise thing since that's what this thread is for.

I'm still doing the elliptical and regular push-ups and crunches because the poison oak is still not gone away totally and I don't want to get in the pool until it's gone.

I've been doing sub-14 minute miles consistently on the elliptical machine and today, I went an amazing 2.22 miles in 30 minutes on the #3 level of incline! I figured 2.14 was probably going to be top end for me on the machine because I hadn't exceeded that number for a while. I don't know what happened today but I am very pleased with those numbers indeed.

For the push-ups, I am up to 40 now and doing 18 crunches before stretching out. I'm still having to push on the push-ups (obviously

) but it's getting a little bit better to do them. I still have to totally focus on them, though. Crunches are still a pain to do. But I'm starting to see the effort in doing them pay off so I'm going to keep doing them until my trainer gives me something that's either easier or more efficient in getting results.

By the way, I found out a bit ago that my appointment with the specialist that's going to do the colonoscopy is on the fourth of next month at 2:00 pm. I'll keep you informed.

guitardude · 08-21-2007, 01:30 PM

DUDES !!!

I killed it on the elliptical this morning! Did a mile in 12:52 and 2.28 miles in 30 minutes!!!

Still did 40 push-ups and 18 crunches. I think I'm going to push for a higher number on the push-ups tomorrow if I do tomorrow like I did today.

Words can not describe my shock and pleasure at this workout. Best part of this is that even with those good distance and time stats, my average heart rate was still in the zone. Seems like it was 117 or 123, I can't remember which. I'm allowed to go up to 136.

To all you couch potatoes out there that know you need to lose a few pounds but can't seem to get motivated: Just get UP and DO IT. This is especially important for those of you whose work does not require much physical activity. You don't have to do like I did and join a gym, particularly if you're strapped for cash. But you can get up and move your body, whether it's jogging, riding a bicycle, swimming, or even walking. The main thing is to find something that works for you.

If you don't do something, you may find yourself looking at having to take off 100+ pounds (like I'm having to) for your health's sake. Don't let it get that bad. All you have to do is find some physical activity you enjoy doing, then do it CONSISTENTLY three to 5 times a week for 30 to 60 minutes. If you know you're not eating right, then change that too. You'll be amazed at the difference it will make in how you feel, not just physically but in your attitude about yourself.

At this point, I am absolutely convinced I will make my goal of 180 pounds by 2/1/09. But in the meantime, the journey to the goal is one fantastic ride.

Regards,
-guitardude

10 · 08-21-2007, 02:53 PM

You know guitardude, YOU are an inspiration to so many guys and gals out there in your boat. You've shown what determination and commitment mean. We here at Betterman are incredibly proud of you brother and stand behind you 150% in your efforts.

You'll do this brother............you've got the right attitude and it's showing!!! Keep it up.

Überschwanz · 08-21-2007, 05:08 PM

Excellent job man!

italiananglo69 · 08-21-2007, 08:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by guitardude

DUDES !!!

I killed it on the elliptical this morning! Did a mile in 12:52 and 2.28 miles in 30 minutes!!!

Still did 40 push-ups and 18 crunches. I think I'm going to push for a higher number on the push-ups tomorrow if I do tomorrow like I did today.

Words can not describe my shock and pleasure at this workout. Best part of this is that even with those good distance and time stats, my average heart rate was still in the zone. Seems like it was 117 or 123, I can't remember which. I'm allowed to go up to 136.

To all you couch potatoes out there that know you need to lose a few pounds but can't seem to get motivated: Just get UP and DO IT. This is especially important for those of you whose work does not require much physical activity. You don't have to do like I did and join a gym, particularly if you're strapped for cash. But you can get up and move your body, whether it's jogging, riding a bicycle, swimming, or even walking. The main thing is to find something that works for you.

If you don't do something, you may find yourself looking at having to take off 100+ pounds (like I'm having to) for your health's sake. Don't let it get that bad. All you have to do is find some physical activity you enjoy doing, then do it CONSISTENTLY three to 5 times a week for 30 to 60 minutes. If you know you're not eating right, then change that too. You'll be amazed at the difference it will make in how you feel, not just physically but in your attitude about yourself.

At this point, I am absolutely convinced I will make my goal of 180 pounds by 2/1/09. But in the meantime, the journey to the goal is one fantastic ride.

Regards,
-guitardude

hey when u get a new girlfriend, having sex should be able to take off 30 pounds easy.

guitardude · 08-21-2007, 09:32 PM

Thanks 10 and Uber. That's the idea here because when all this is said and done and when I am at my goal weight, I can then say if I did it, you can too.

I don't have any illusions that the weight is just going to miraculously drop off without any effort. That would be totally counterproductive to the task before me. I know it's going to take a LOT of work and it's not going to come off all at once because I didn't put it all on at once.

At the same time, I'm not allowing the monumental size of the task overwhelm me. I've resolved that this time is going to be the last time I have to lose this much weight. I can say that with all sincerity because I have rediscovered the joy of exercising. To be honest, my little MP3 player has made ALL the difference in the world because I'm so into music and it really motivates me with whatever I'm doing. So from now on, exercising with music in the earbuds is going to be like a good steak and baked potato (pardon the lame food analogy

) They just go together.

10 · 08-21-2007, 10:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by guitardude

Thanks 10 and Uber. That's the idea here because when all this is said and done and when I am at my goal weight, I can then say if I did it, you can too.

I don't have any illusions that the weight is just going to miraculously drop off without any effort. That would be totally counterproductive to the task before me. I know it's going to take a LOT of work and it's not going to come off all at once because I didn't put it all on at once.

At the same time, I'm not allowing the monumental size of the task overwhelm me. I've resolved that this time is going to be the last time I have to lose this much weight. I can say that with all sincerity because I have rediscovered the joy of exercising. To be honest, my little MP3 player has made ALL the difference in the world because I'm so into music and it really motivates me with whatever I'm doing. So from now on, exercising with music in the earbuds is going to be like a good steak and baked potato (pardon the lame food analogy

) They just go together.

Yup, like Seattle and rain.........

guitardude · 08-24-2007, 12:00 PM

Well guys, I ended my workouts on a high note this week. On the elliptical, I got up to 2.33 miles in 30 minutes and then on the push-ups, I did 42 of them. Still at 18 on the crunches though; they are killers. I'm really starting to see the changes coming and they are a welcome sight indeed.

I'm going to be out of town for a couple of days so I'll post again probably sometime early next week.

guitardude · 08-24-2007, 12:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by guitardude

Well guys, I ended my workouts on a high note this week. On the elliptical, I got up to 2.33 miles in 30 minutes and then on the push-ups, I did 42 of them. Still at 18 on the crunches though; they are killers. I'm really starting to see the changes coming and they are a welcome sight indeed.

I'm going to be out of town for a couple of days so I'll post again probably sometime early next week.

I forgot to post best time on a mile for the elliptical; I got down to an amazing 12:37! I am very pleased with my progress so far.

10 · 08-24-2007, 03:07 PM

You're rockin' brother............keep it up.

guitardude · 08-29-2007, 09:39 PM

Just checking in...

Nothing new and exciting to report.. I've just been going to the gym and working out.

Yesterday when I went to the gym, all the machines like the one I've been using were occupied so I had to use a Life Fitness elliptical. It was the same in that it works the same way as the Precor but different in that it has handles that kind of look like ski handles and are connected to the foot mechanism. I worked out with it but didn't care too much for it. I felt the workout was not as intense as on the Precor.

I did work out on the Precor today and did 42 push-ups and 18 crunches. It was nothing spectacular but it did feel good to be back on a familiar machine instead of the Life Fitness machine.

10 · 08-30-2007, 12:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by guitardude

Just checking in...

Nothing new and exciting to report.. I've just been going to the gym and working out.

Yesterday when I went to the gym, all the machines like the one I've been using were occupied so I had to use a Life Fitness elliptical. It was the same in that it works the same way as the Precor but different in that it has handles that kind of look like ski handles and are connected to the foot mechanism. I worked out with it but didn't care too much for it. I felt the workout was not as intense as on the Precor.

I did work out on the Precor today and did 42 push-ups and 18 crunches. It was nothing spectacular but it did feel good to be back on a familiar machine instead of the Life Fitness machine.

Oh man, I LOVE the one with the ski handles..........I get to rockin' on that puppy. I get a good groove goin' and then I put myself on cruise control and check out the ladies. Not many lookers but still in all, good times...........

guitardude · 09-10-2007, 04:48 PM

Hey guys, sorry for not posting in a few days. I've taken a few days off from working out partly because of off days and being out of town and partly because I've had to take it easy on account of my lower back has been giving some pain. I'm not sure what caused it because I've been trying to be careful about how I do things.

Since the last time I posted, I met with the doctor that is going to do the colonoscopy and he seems to think that whatever is causing the condition is benign. I was relieved to hear that. The procedure is set for October 11 at 9:00 am. I was going to try to have it done sooner but that was the first or earliest time I could get with their schedule that works with my schedule.

I'm going to work out now and will see how things go and will post probably sometime tonight since I have to work 2nd shift today.

JonPop · 09-10-2007, 05:25 PM

Hey Dude. Glad to see your post. Was getting concerned about you and was going to send you an e-mail. Let us know how you're feeling after todays work out.

guitardude · 09-11-2007, 06:06 PM

Thanks JonPop. After the first workout, I felt okay. I didn't go the whole 30 minutes on the elliptical, but I still did a sub 14 minute mile and got just over 1.5 miles in 20 minutes. I did 43 push-ups and 20 crunches before stretching out. I had heard from my mother that one of her trainers said the ellipticals can cause back problems but my trainer never said anything of the sort. I guess I need to ask my trainer and maybe do some research on my own to see what the truth is.

I do think I probably need to get my back checked out because sometimes I can just make a slight move the wrong way and feel some minor pain. I don't have to be doing anything strenuous either. As posted in my other thread here in Health and fitness, I could possibly have a back condition that may be contributing to both these symptoms.

My plan is to continue working out but taking extra care not to make a movement that could aggravate a possible back problem or condition.

-guitardude

guitardude · 09-14-2007, 02:21 AM

Well, somehow I caused my right foot to be sore last night. It's on the right side of the foot between where the instep is and the toes. I don't know how it happened because I don't think I did anything to cause it but it is really sore. Walking is difficult at best; I can walk but it is painful when I put the right foot down. I didn't work out today because of it but I hope it gets better quickly so I can work out tomorrow. Will post tomorrow how it's going.

Regards,
-guitardude

JonPop · 09-14-2007, 04:08 AM

Sounds like a stress fracture. If it doesn't improve in a couple of days, using cold therapy, I would consider an Xray. Keep us posted.

10 · 09-14-2007, 06:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by guitardude

Well, somehow I caused my right foot to be sore last night. It's on the right side of the foot between where the instep is and the toes. I don't know how it happened because I don't think I did anything to cause it but it is really sore. Walking is difficult at best; I can walk but it is painful when I put the right foot down. I didn't work out today because of it but I hope it gets better quickly so I can work out tomorrow. Will post tomorrow how it's going.

Regards,
-guitardude

Could be a bruise also. I did that once and at the time I had a job that required a TON of walking............that was tough. About the only thing that alleviated the paid was athletic shoes...........which I wasn't supposed to wear but my foot hurt so damn bad I couldn't stand it. It went away in a couple of days............wish I knew what it was???

guitardude · 09-15-2007, 01:30 AM

Hey guys, the right foot is better today because it's not hurting like it was yesterday and I am able to walk on it without as much hurting as previously experienced. I'm taking one more day off and using cold therapy on the foot as JP has suggested. Hopefully, I'll be able to work out in the morning.

-guitardude

guitardude · 09-19-2007, 05:12 AM

Hey guys,

I'm doing a whole lot better on the right foot and have resumed my workouts. Nothing great and fantastic to report but in a sense, being able to work out is something great to write about.

This week on Friday, I have an appointment with a foot specialist to see what's causing this near constant pain in my left heel I've been experiencing for better than 3 months. I hope it's something that doesn't require surgery to fix and that I can just take some meds or do some other therapeutic activity. I'll let you know when I find out something.

Regards,
guitardude

guitardude · 09-21-2007, 11:50 PM

My doctor's appointment was today. I found out that I have plantar fasciitis and also a couple of spurs on my heel. One of them is on the back part of the heel and the other is on the bottom of the heel. The one on the bottom of the heel I think is the one giving me the most pain.

Treatment for now is going to be better shoes (though I have some good New Balance shoes), massage on the foot, ice, stretching, taking Advil and custom made orthotics. I am to go back in December and see how things are at that time. There is a procedure he mentioned (though I can't remember what he called it now) that could be done if the condition doesn't get better. I'm going to do as the doctor said but I suspect that something's going to have to be done about the spur on the bottom of my heel for this pain to go away.

Regards,
-guitardude

JonPop · 09-22-2007, 12:51 AM

Hey David, sorry to hear it wasn't something simple such as a bruise. I believe the procedure is the opening of the foot and planing or sanding down the spur. Nothing to look forward to but better than trying to walk on that puppy. Good Luck, again, keep us posted.

guitardude · 09-23-2007, 03:22 AM

Thanks JonPop,

One thing I forgot to mention was that there was also a bit of arthritis in the foot also. The procedure he spoke of I think is somehow non-invasive; kind of a shock therapy if I remembered what he said correctly. I just know the pain is always there and I look for him to want to do that procedure in December if the pain is not better by then. Actually the way I feel now, I would go ahead and say let's do it and get it over with. But he's the doctor and I'm not so I'll do what he says and hope to get some relief in December unless these other things work before then. I sure hope they do.

-guitardude

guitardude · 09-27-2007, 05:02 AM

Hey guys,

Got some good news... my edema is way down now. I guess the water pills along with the compression stockings have finally started working. There may be a little bit of swelling on the left calf but it is nothing near what it was and has been for about the last year to two years.

On the workout front, I'm not pushing as hard on the elliptical but working more on balance. The push-ups and crunches have been a challenge for me so I've not made gains there lately. But I'm still committed to my goal and will get there like anyone else makes their goals - one day at a time.

I'll breathe a bit better after I have the colonoscopy next month and the results are in. I'm hoping that will be an easy fix also.

-guitardude

10 · 09-27-2007, 02:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by guitardude

My doctor's appointment was today. I found out that I have plantar fasciitis and also a couple of spurs on my heel. One of them is on the back part of the heel and the other is on the bottom of the heel. The one on the bottom of the heel I think is the one giving me the most pain.

Treatment for now is going to be better shoes (though I have some good New Balance shoes), massage on the foot, ice, stretching, taking Advil and custom made orthotics. I am to go back in December and see how things are at that time. There is a procedure he mentioned (though I can't remember what he called it now) that could be done if the condition doesn't get better. I'm going to do as the doctor said but I suspect that something's going to have to be done about the spur on the bottom of my heel for this pain to go away.

Regards,
-guitardude

I knew someone that had a heel spur once. She had to have is surgically removed. Sucks but better than walking in pain the rest of your life.