How can my arms feel like both limp spaghetti strands and like lead weights at the same time?
The plan sort of took shape about four years ago. The general idea was to get back into some sort of shape after decades of neglect. The first phase which I must say that I’ve thoroughly mastered, was the walking and then running phase.
This was where the heavy work of weight loss was to be done. For the most part that has been accomplished. From an all time high of 292 pounds I have reduced down to 184 pounds and still counting. Right now I am probably at the tail end of what I can accomplish through running. I will probably continue to lose weight but I won’t be able to garner as much benefit through running anymore.
The second phase, and what has turned out to be the harder phase, the upper body and torso phase began this year. Exercises to increase muscle mass, exercises to burn fat, exercises to increase flexibility. So far it hasn’t gone very well.
Let me be clear. I am not expecting to look like some sort of body builder at the end of this process. My philosophy behind this fitness plan is somewhat similar to the train of thought that I took when purchasing my Dodge Charger. I was not looking for a car to go out racing every weekend but at the same time I did want a car that would have the muscle to get around other traffic when and if necessary. In the same way I don’t expect to be overly muscled at the end of this process but to definitely have the strength and flexibility necessary for whatever eventuality arises.
Unfortunately (or maybe I should say fortunately) you can’t just go out and buy a body like that from a showroom. You have to be willing to put in the price in both time and sweat.
First I had several abortive attempts to self start the process and those sputtered to a halt after a week or two. Then after I realized that I needed someone to keep me on course I went looking for a trainer. Apparently a much harder chore than at first blush.
I found several ads for trainers in the local papers and websites but the offers ranged from fairly clueless people who seemed to know less than I did to die-hard workout fanatics that would have me exercising 24 hours a day. The local health store manager offered to connect me to a trainer he knew but the trainer never called back. Finally I got a trainer through a local gym but things didn’t work out after a month.
So I’m almost back to square one. I know a little more about the process than when I first started and I have made some inroads into forcing myself to work out 4 times a week without excuses but I know that I am all over the place. I need to be more focused.
The plan right now is to first of all continue working out. Some sort of exercise is better than nothing after all. Next to re-double my efforts and find that right guide to get me on track. Lastly to carry on.
The plan is working. It’s not going to be one of those overnight success stories but it will succeed.
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