It was a year ago today that I joined this site with the hope of getting in shape for myself.  One year later I am 30 pounds lighter and alot happier overall.  I haven't been on much because I found routines that work well for me and I don't really require all the varied routines the site offers.  Nevertheless I do appreciate it being here for me when I need it.  Here are a few things that I do to help me through the tough times.

Exercise: My routines vary almost daily based on what I want to work on.  When I feel I have some extra flab around the midsection I focus on core exercises to strengthen those muscles and well as cardio to work off the extra fat.  Frequent step routines help since you can put them on for 30 minutes and change the channel to watch TV to pass the time.  What my arms feel weak I focus on curls, pushups, pullups and arm exercises.  You get the picture.  Basically I focus on what my needs are and go from there.  During the warmer months I've been on several hikes where I saw some wonderful waterfalls and nature, swimming and just getting my butt outside to soak in the Vitamin D.

Diet: I changed my diet radically last year when I joined the site to cut out many processed goods and most sweets that I used to eat regularly.  I've been eating alot of fruits and veggies for quite awhile.  I haven't bought chocolate or ice cream to have at home in I don't remember how long, although I do get a blizzard on occasion when the mood strikes me.  I'm not afraid of desserts anymore as being fattening agents, I just know how to limit them better.  Plus most desserts are too sweet for me anymore, I stick to the fruit when I can.  I eat alot of fresh meat, chicken and fish to help me gain muscle I want and stay away from all the extra salts.  The only problem area is beer, which I happen to enjoy a few nights a week.

Motivation:  This varies quite often.  Sometimes things that motivate me don't work anymore so I work at finding other things to motivate me.  For now I know hunting season is but two months away and I want to stay in shape for pulling that deer or elk I plan on shooting out of the woods so I can get some lovely venison steaks out of it.  Other times of the year it motivates me to look good in my swim trunks, helps get rid of cabin fever during the winter and looking good for the ladies never hurt.

As always...Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat

Overall I hope