In The Buff

As my base phase of training continues one of the areas I am working on is my weight. This time last year I was about 168 lbs and I wanted to get down to 153. I achieved that and had my best season to date. I have a new plan this year. Right now I'm at about 158-160 and my goal is to get down to 145 by July 25th. This will be the lightest I've been since Junior High.

Why? Two reasons... Carrying less weight means that I can run faster and there will be less wear and tear from the stresses of running. Ok, there is one more reason. Believe it or not I was a fat kid. Yup, I was a fat kid. Growing up in an Italian home we ate. So I've actually battled this weight thing for a while. I'm sure some of you are thinking, "are you out of your mind?". Maybe, but I still look at myself and believe there is more to do.

Over the last year friends/customers and family have made comments like "you're too skinny" or "ok, it's time to stop". Well, the reality is that 1. yes, I've lost some weight, but I know there is more to lose in order to gain and 2. If done properly weight loss and proper eating habits will allow me to stay healthy. Ok, and 3... when I look in the mirror all I see are those damn love handles!!! For God's sakes, I thought if I lost 10 pounds they would be gone...I lost 15 and they were still there! Sorry, I'm losing focus.

My point to all of this? I'm putting myself out there for everyone to see. I don't want to hear the comments, good or bad. I have plan to get race-ready for IMLP for this is part of it. Eating well in order to train and recover properly is the key. This is my commitment and in doing so the results will come.

If you've struggled with weight loss, if you've struggled with body image issues, if you feel you can't do something, you need a plan to follow. Without a plan you are doomed to failure. You will constantly be lost. Put a plan together and stick with it. Commit! You don't have a lot of time to make the changes that are necessary to help you become the person you want to be.

You may not be training for a race, but wouldn't it be nice to run around with your kids? Wouldn't it be great to go up a flight of stairs and not feel winded? Wouldn't it be nice to life the life you deserve?

One of my favorite quotes... Mark Twain - 20 years from now you'll be more disappointed in the things you did NOT do than in the things you did d0.

So here I am... it's out there. I'll keep you posted on the progress.