The Blog of Winning by Losing

Guilt

Sat, 26 May 2012 23:30:00 GMT

Guilty! That's a little harsh, huh? Guilty of eating meals that do not meet the parameters of the diet, er eating plan? No. How about not exercising? No, that's the easy part for me.

Here's the problem – the expectation is that participants will only weigh themselves once a week. Don't know about you, but I like numbers. They are kind of magic. Why else would TV's biggest losers subject themselves to public ridicule while waiting for their weight to be revealed while various numbers are being displayed over unrelenting, torturous moments before giving the true number? Numbers are good. I usually get on the scale one daily. Or twice. I know my morning weight and evening weight. It gives more opportunity to beat myself up when the numbers are “bad”.

My trainers talked about baby steps to increasing water consumption, changing eating habits, and exercising. Baby steps not needed. I'm there. Maybe baby steps to weighing less often. I skipped a day, and am down to weighing only once daily. That counts, right? My sneak peek this morning shows that 6 days into the program I have lost 2.5 pounds!

I am ecstatic. Good thing that tomorrow is my sanctioned weigh in because there's no missing that weigh-in.

Signing off, SGB (Secret Guest Blogger)

Secret guest blogger

Wed, 23 May 2012 14:56:00 GMT

Morning walks have been part of my daily routine for years, but my fabulous consultants, Steve and Ruth, tell me that my body is cannabalizing it's lean cells during these ventures! What, how can this be? The answer is eat first, then walk. Hmmm, but that will slow me down, is what I'm thinking. Not if breakfast is a protein bar or a shake. OK, so what fits for me is making a shake and drinking it while I am getting dressed for my walk. It only takes a few extra minutes but has has been a positive change. It's my fifth day in the new program, and all is well.

What does it take to be a personal trainer in Auburn, WA?

Sat, 12 Jun 2010 02:59:00 GMT

What is appealing about being a personal trainer in a fitness club? Auburn, WA has an award winning fitness club by the name of Vision Quest Sport and Fitness. You will find the black shirts of personal trainers in every part of the gym. Maybe they like working in such a place because the Heavenly Cafe is connected to the fitness club and gives amazing service?

Here are a few of the issues about being a personal trainer:

Everybody sweats too much. This is not when people look or smell their best.
Those who are trained always want to rest.
Who is truly honest about their eating habits when asked by the personal trainer?
A personal trainer who works for a world champion (Brad Swartz) will probably need to have the highest of standards. Seems like more pressure.
When a personal trainer spends their whole day training others, no way can they be in the mood to work out themselves.
Locker rooms, dirty socks. Enough said.
If a personal trainer loses muscle or gains even 5 pounds, there is probably heck to pay.
Intimidation. Physical trainers are intimidating because they always seem fit, always have an attitude of "can-do". Keeping up with them must be tough and intimidating.
Grocery shopping. If everyone knows that you are a personal trainer and you go grocery shopping, there can be no cheating. (Unless you say it is for a friend.)
Hearing people cry in pain and be so tired might be an occasional event for those who have very serious goals. (The goal is to have training be fast, easy and fun.)
Exercise equipment. Everywhere! Oh yeah, I guess that is just me who is getting accustomed to exercise equipment.
Science, psychology, biology, math, coaching. Knowledge of each is necessary to be a personal trainer. Seems complicated.
How many times can you say: "Faster, harder, you can do it, com'on --- three more." A personal trainer could go nuts with this over and over.
Outright refusal. That is what I am sure what a trainer hears. Refusals. They might hear: "OK, you can be my personal trainer but you have to do it my way."
Can't take "no" for an answer. The rest of us who are not trainers are too busy, to tired, too weak and certainly will never look like that trainer, so why bother. The personal trainer won't take no for an answer. (Well, this one is actually a good thing.)

Over the years I have had an aversion to those working in fitness clubs. It could be partially due to those 1 year contracts where you have to sign in triplicate. (Lucky Vision Quest has no long term commitments.) It could be because of intimidation and my ability to not be the buff jock who could keep up.

I look around the gym at Vision Quest and see people from a broad range of ages working out. Personal trainers treat everyone like a friend and they give out big smiles to all. (Even though there is a list of reasons why not to be a personal trainer.)

Why the heck would someone take on such a challenge deliberately?

Then I remember the testimonials at the end of the last Biggest Loser at the final weigh in. Each person talked about feeling better, improving relationships, doing more and connecting with life and not just the couch. Each tear was mixed with a smile.

I suppose if I was to hear such stories about every three months, it would be good motivation to tackle what seems to be an almost no-win situation. It is mind against body. The personal trainer's mind helps someone to improve their body. Interestingly enough it seems to come full circle and also improve the mind.

Now. Do you pay for a personal trainer? Well, if you can't make yourself feel better, do you go to the doctor? If you can't sing, do you get a singing coach? If you can't play the guitar, do you have someone show you how? If you are going to lose 25 pounds and have been trying for 10 years, how much time will it take you to feel better, play the guitar, sing, and lose 25 pounds? I wonder if you could save money by hiring a doctor who taught singing and guitar lessons and could also coach on losing weight. Now that would be an interesting session!

It's your turn. Why else do you think it would be hard to be a personal trainer? Or maybe you think it's easy? Share.

Thoughts of Chocolate vs. Weight Loss Continue

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 14:13:00 GMT

After the experience at the weigh in for Biggest Loser VII at the fitness club in Auburn, WA, it was good to see the email today in my email inbox from Calorie Count. The second time around for the weight loss challenge at Vision Quest Sport and Fitness seems just a bit tougher. Last night I missed my workout because I was 30 miles north. One demerit for me.

Chocolate, Straight from the Source

I used to think chocolate was a rich and sweet treat best enjoyed from fancy packages with European names. While by no means an expert, I thought I knew a thing or two about this dark and delicious food so many of us adore. However, after traveling directly to the source in Mexico and Central America, I now realize chocolate and cocoa is a much more interesting and diverse product, with a fascinating history...
continue reading

From Calorie Count

Does chocolate block calcium?

The oxalic acid in chocolate and cocoa blocks with calcium absorption somewhat because oxalic acid binds with calcium in the GI track to... continue reading

What's a substitute for chocolate?

The alternative you are currently choosing, Nutella, chocolate hazelnut spread, on corn cakes is very yummy, but, due to its high fat content... continue reading

Why do I need to eat dessert?

Some folks think life is sweeter with a square of chocolate to end the dinner meal. Or maybe you crave chocolate because you won't allow... continue reading

A Big Loser at the Fitness Club in Auburn, WA | Biggest Loser VII

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 23:39:00 GMT

It is Biggest Loser Time. Biggest Loser VII at Vision Quest Sport and Fitness. This fitness club in Auburn, WA is an award winning business where over 2800 pounds were lost in the last biggest loser contest.

Who can become a big loser? What kind of person takes control of their life and tackles exercise equipment with no fear? Weight loss seems tough. Who can make it?

Who is willing to test the deep thoughts of fitness club managers at Vision Quest?

What kind of person will be willing to face celebrity personal trainers?

Who will be willing to follow the meal plan set by the personal trainer coach?

Can the exercise balls be mastered? How do you learn what to do for a workout?

It looks like I see a few. A full room of people in fact. This is the highest number of people to sign up for the Biggest Loser at Vision Quest Sport and Fitness to date.

Do you think these people are brave for taking action to change their lives? Do you believe it is possible to lose 25, 35 or 50 pounds in 13 weeks? If you don't believe, then know that it has already been done at this fitness club over and over.

Here is Brad Swartz. He is a world champion wrestler and lives what he teaches.

Handsome guy, don't you think?

On Thursday night he got the crowd motivated and inspired.

Yes, I was there. I expect to lose 25 more pounds. This last month has been busy, busy, busy. It appears I actually gained some pounds! I weighed in at about 249 pounds. No worries. I will go on the entrepreneur diet.

As Brad Swartz was giving an awesome and amazing presentation, I was thinking about chocolate. Take a look at the double vision of Brad showing the benefits of the very successful (and still growing) program.

Uh oh. Here is a photo with Brad Swartz smiling big with giant bags of Dove chocolate candy bars in his hand.

How can this be? We must rewind the clock and see how he came in possesion of the chocolate.

Back... back... back in time.

Ok. Here is Brad Swartz sharing wise words about fitness, health and losing weight.

Here I am concentrating on Brad's every word while standing next to him.

So far so good.

I think I remember. There was chocolate stuffed in my coat. It seems I was caught red handed with big bags of chocolate. I try to come up with an explanation. Brad smiles big because he knows that I am caught.

Here I am confessing and pouring out my guts to him. Coming clean, I tell him he can have a bag and my new personal trainer (Amber) can have the other as a token of my new commitment to Biggest Loser VII.

There is a reason Brad Swartz is a world champion. He knows how to make it happen. Here he is with my chocolate in hand. (Do you think he's gloating?)

Brad shares with the crowd what a sad case I am. Did he say it like this? "If you do what Michael Hartzell tried to do, you will fail, fail, fail. Stick to the meal plan, take the supplements, exercise, drink water and more water, and don't quit." My readers digest version I suppose.

He is holding that chocolate pretty tight. Wonder what he will do with it?

Now you know the rest of the story and how I was able to catch World Champion Brad Swartz with two bags of chocolate in his hand. It was me thinking I could sneak chocolate while on the Biggest Loser.

You must know? The photos are real but I did take just a bit of liberty and created a story that might be stretched just a bit.

The part where a giant room of people signed on to participate in the Biggest Loser VII at Vision Quest Sport and Fitness is the truth. They are amazing.

What do you think? Do you want to weigh in right now from wherever you are and see if you can beat my target? 25 pounds is my goal. I will be reposting my workout calendar in the next couple of days. Feel free to come on down.

Michelle Aultman with Exercising Tips to Prevent Weak Bones

Wed, 26 May 2010 05:48:00 GMT

It is time to take a break from the fitness topics in Auburn, WA and reach out all the way to California. Here today is Michelle Aultman from "Elliptical Machines Blog". I have a bigger appreciation now for such a topic after working out and losing weight. This new information is perfect timing for me as I start again on June 3rd at the Biggest Loser VII.

Michelle Aultman is the guest blogger today and helps you with exercise tips:

Give me 5 mins and I'll give you a few exercising tips to prevent weak bones

Approximately ten million Americans have osteoporosis, and another 34 million have low bone mass (osteopenia).

A disease without symptoms, osteoporosis affects about 20 percent of men and 80 percent of women.

The bones gradually become weaker, they may break by a minor fall or, if left untreated, even from simple things like a sneeze.

The commonest fracture sites are hip, wrist and spine, although any bone in your body could be affected.

A diagnosis of osteopenia or osteoporosis tend to be scary, leading a number of people to avoid exercise because of fear it will cause fractures.

The truth is that people with low bone mass should make sure to exercise on a regular basis.

Being active is shown to not merely assist in preventing osteoporosis, but slow bone loss once it has already begun.

Before beginning a workout program, you will need to check with your doctor for guidelines, as degree of bone loss determines how much exercise is best.

Physicians can assess density of bone and fracture risk by scanning the body with a special type of X-ray machine.

In conjunction with exercise, treatment may include dietary modifications and/or estrogen replacement therapy.

The more knowledge you get about this condition, the more you can do to help prevent its onset.

To build strength and bone mass, both weight-bearing and resistance training exercises are ideal.

Weight-bearing exercises are the ones that require the bones to fully support your weight against gravity.

Examples are walking, jogging, stair climbing, dancing or using an elliptical machine.

Non-weight bearing exercises include biking, swimming, water aerobics and rowing.

Weight-bearing activities like walking less than 3 x a week will manage to benefit the bones.

Resistance training places mechanical force (stress) on our bodies that might increases density of bone.

Start by lifting light weights, moving in a slow and controlled manner, increasing resistance when you become stronger.

It's always recommended that people with osteoporosis avoid the following types of activity:

* Step aerobics and high-impact activities including running, jumping, tennis.
* Activities that involve rounding, bending and twisting of the spine.
* Moving the legs sideways or across the body, specially when performed against resistance.
* Rowing machines, trampolines.
* Every movement that involves pulling on the head and neck.

Exercise Tips:

* Even if you do not have osteoporosis, you need to talk with your medical provider before you begin a workout program.
* Remember to warm-up before beginning and cool-down at the conclusion of each exercise session.
* For the best benefit to your bone health, combine several different weight-bearing exercises.
* As you build strength, increase resistance, or weights, instead of repetitions.
* Make sure to drink a lot of water whenever exercising.
* Vary the types of exercise that you do each week.
* Combine weight bearing and resistance exercise with aerobic exercises to help you improve your general health.
* Bring your friend along to help you keep going or in addition to this, bring your family and encourage them to be healthy.
* Add more exercise to your day; take the stairs vs. the elevator, park further way, and walk to your co-worker's office rather than emailing.

Put LIVE into action!

L - Load or weight-bearing exercises make a difference for your bones
I - Intensity builds stronger bones.
V - Vary the types of exercise as well as your routine to keep interested.
E - Enjoy your exercises. Make exercise fun so you will continue into the future!

Specific factors raise the probability of developing osteoporosis. While some of these risk factors are controllable, others won't be.

Risk factors that may be controlled are:

Sedentary lifestyle, excess intake of protein, sodium.

Caffeine and/or alcohol, smoking, calcium and Vitamin D deficiencies and taking certain medicines.

Body size (small frame), gender, family history and ethnicity are risk factors that cannot be controlled.

Women can lose about 20 percent of their bone mass in the five to seven years after menopause, which makes them more vulnerable to osteoporosis.

It is never too soon to start considering bone mineral density.

About 85-90 percent of adult bone mass is acquired by age 18 in girls and 20 in boys.

Nutrition and Exercise for Healthy Bones in childhood and Adolescence.

Much of the reserve of healthy bone is built in youth and before the age of 30.

Women can be more subject to an inadequate foundation process at this time than men.

Sufficient calcium intake,a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and veggies and load-bearing exercise are the secrets of solid bone growth when you're young. Then, with continued exercise into old age -- and this benefits men as well -- bone density decline can be kept to a minimum.

Although women are the main focus of data about osteoporosis and low bone density (osteopenia), some men are also seriously afflicted by this problem.

In case you do all the right things while growing up and into adulthood, your inherited characteristics "your genes" can present you with bones that are susceptible to osteoporosis. This is even greater reason to maximize your lifestyle to prevent poor bone health.

About Michelle Aultman

Michelle writes for the elliptical workout for fat loss blog, her personal hobby blog centered on ideas to prevent osteoporosis through home fitness.
Writer's note: The information provided on this document are designed to support, not substitute, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health practitioner.
Michelle Aultman has no business intent and does not accept direct source of promotion coming from health or pharmaceutical firms, doctors or clinics and websites. All content provided by her is based on her editorial common sense and is not driven by an advertising and marketing purpose.

How helpful was this information from Michelle? How will it change what you do?

17 Ways a New Pill to Mimic Exercise Will Change Fitness & Business

Sun, 23 May 2010 00:33:00 GMT

You know what this means for the fitness attitude and business, don't you?

It means that people will:

Expect an exercise mimic pill to be served with every meal.
Want meals with built-in exercise mimic pills.
Have bosses who require exercise mimic pills to be taken to maintain weight.
Suspect the Biggest Loser contestants will be cheating with an exercise mimic pill.
Not know the difference between a real exercise mimic pill and a mimic of an exercise mimic pill.
Overindulge on exercise mimic pills and then need to go on a feeding frenzy to gain weight.
Instead say: "I can't talk right now, I am exercising," and then take an exercise mimic pill which means of course, you have not lied about exercise.
Be able to exercise in their sleep with the exercise mimic pill?
Hear from every marketing agency in the world: Viagra, Votox and Exercise Mimic Pill ... all in one!
Be too tired at times for work because of too much exercise from the exercise mimic pill.
Not be able to tell between the people who look fit from real exercise or the fake exercise mimic pill.
Take an exercise mimic pill in the most unusual places. What the heck?
Will no longer need to visit the health and fitness club in Auburn, WA. (There is, after all, an exercise mimic pill soon to be available).
Will have contests on reality TV of who can lose the most weight WITHOUT regular exercise and ONLY use the exercise mimic pill.
Begin to feed their children the exercise mimic pill before they need it as a "just in case".
Over time expect to see special flavors and colors of exercise mimic pills.
Will want cartoon shaped, cartoon named exercise mimic pills. (Take your Flintsones exercise mimic pill with iron now.)

If this continues to market, what do you expect to see from having a pill like this? How will it change your life?

Calorie Count Bad Foods You Should Eat

Wed, 12 May 2010 16:53:00 GMT

"Bad" Foods You Should Eat

Recently, a friend who was eating with me appeared shocked as I spread full-fat natural peanut butter on my whole-wheat toast. Isn't peanut butter super-fattening, she asked? It's high in fat but that doesn't mean it's fattening, I told her, noting that gaining or losing weight, and body fat, basically comes down to balancing calories. Knowing my master's work focused on weight loss, she took my word on this.

More from EatingWell.com:

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Michael Hartzell | Brad Swartz | Biggest Loser Finale | Vision Quest

Sat, 01 May 2010 16:10:00 GMT

Here is Brad Swartz at Vision Quest Sport and Fitness fitness club staying in control of the microphone. I held back my urge to grab it and refrained from giving a speech. Since Brad Swartz is a World Champion Wrestler and I see him on occassion still coaching/wrestling at the fitness club in Auburn, WA, I know that if my hand reached for the microphone, he would have me at his mercy.

Yes, Matt Hoover (Winner of 2nd Season of Biggest Loser) was there and gave an inspirational and moving presentation. (I look good standing next to the large photo of Matt Hoover don't I?)

One lesson from Matt: When someone gives a compliment say "thank you" and then shut up. To say more that starts with a "thank you, yea but I need to ___" does no one any good. Thank you Matt for the lesson and inspiration.

24 pounds. That is the official weight loss for me in 13 weeks. The result of 30 to 40 minutes a day of workout at the fitness club, meal plan, supplements, water, more water, and of course attitude.

So the person sitting next to me at the finale (whose name I am withholding to protect her from the fanfare) decided at the very last second to sign up for Vision Quest VII which starts June 3rd. There was excitement, prizes and a promise of even more weight loss, personal training, and summer is looming.

I again became someone's buddy in the Biggest Loser VII competition. The good news is there will be less education needed and I am starting a a place where I am less of a wimp.

Do you wonder if:

It is ok to wear weights under the clothes on the first weigh in?
Is it a good thing to eat and eat for the next 30 days and put more weight on? (Does it even increase the chance of winning?)
The old clothes are already baggy so does a person continue to put off buying a new wardrobe since more pounds are sure to go?
Will the fact that summer is looming create outdoor temptations which become diversions from the mission? (Is it harder to stick to a plan in the summer?)
Will losing another 24 pounds begin to make me look less attractive? (Some like the fat and friendly look.)
What will the next goal be? 20 pounds? Less? More?
What will the schedule allow? A daily routine for workouts? I will be committed to giving scholarships so time will be very tight. Will that mean there means to be an increase in the workouts?
There will be a new trainer. How long will it take me to train them?

So many questions. Since the Biggest Loser Competition includes one personal training session every few weeks and my club membership includes a once a month personal training session, these are questions to be asked of whoever gets the joy and priviledge of being my personal coach.

June 3rd. You can do it as well. From there. Weigh in on the same day as me. Every two weeks, weigh in. Share your story. We can blog about it here. You can blog if you want. You have to send a "before photo" though!

20 pounds of Weight Loss at Health Club in Auburn, WA

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 06:07:00 GMT

The health club in Auburn, WA took photos of me today. Twenty pounds the scale at home says. You get to see the photo above the day before the weigh in. Not sure of the final weigh in yet. My new scale at home says 20 pounds ... but that is not the official weight.

Tomorrow (Thursday 4-29) is the big bash in Auburn.

Matt Hoover will be at the final weigh in and celebration at the Vision Quest Sport and Fitness clubs. Season Two Biggest Loser Winner had a weight loss that inspires others to lose / win.

So here is a little poetry from the someone who flunked Poetry University:

I remember when,

I was afraid of the floor.

Because when I went down, getting up would make me sore.

The grocery aisles were faster and easier

Then came reading every box, bag and container.

Calorie intake was measured by how far to unbuckle

Now calorie is first consideration which makes others chuckle

Food was functional when in a hurry

No more is it grab and go, or just munch and scurry.

The best thing in life was a Jumbo Jack

Now the best I can hope for at fast food is an empty sack.

My fear grew quickly as people would say the word "exercise",

I can now talk about 'reps' and weights to rookies which makes me look wise.

I would find every excuse to avoid the walk just to walk,

Now I keep up and believe it or not, while I walk I talk!

For the longest time, the solution was "Just buy more clothes".

It was the simplest way to deal with no longer touching my toes.

I met Chip, Brad and Jeff at Vision Quest and they all said:

I expect a commitment from you, so get "no quitting" into your head.

Yes, I remember bits and pieces but it is all fading away.

Now I have less fat to haul so I will just celebrate with a big "hooray".

Dr. Seuss would not be very proud of my prose.

Since I flunked Poetry University, that is expected I suppose.

May you think of yourself at this moment in time?

Would you like to shed a few pounds and share in a rhyme?

Most the time when you hear of a loss there is sadness and a tear,

This loss is one that is only a win so please right now, give a big cheer.

There you have it but it is just the beginning. Why not go for more? So I will keep moving the bar and losing more. I have a membership at Vision Quest now so the millions of dollars worth of equipment is at my disposal. More exercise, more discipline. How long before another 20? AND will you be my next buddy?

If I can do it? Anyone can. The final weigh in is tomorrow but after that? Maybe I will be talking to you. I want to go for another twenty. How about you? Let's do it.

I averaged 30 to 40 minutes a day of working out. Stuck to a meal plan (five times a day). Drank more green tea in three months than all my life (I like green tea). Supplements three times a day (which kept me feeling much better). Ok... I missed about 10% of the days. (that only means I could have done even better).

Mike@biglosermike.com is waiting. Biggest Loser VII is around the corner already.

18 Pounds and Two Weeks Left at Health Club in Auburn, WA

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 21:20:00 GMT

Here I was hanging around a bunch of losers at the health club in Auburn, WA at 7:00 pm last Thursday. Because they were losers they are all BIG winners. I am in awe and appreciation of each person who went to the scale in the front of the room to weigh in. Some have amazing weight loss in the first 10 weeks. (One person has lost over 40 pounds.) Others lost not as much but are still moving forward.

The Biggest Loser Competition at Vision Quest Sport and Fitness was something I would walk by and say "not for me". There is so much hype around the TV show where participants cry, suffer, and tantrum. That is TV. I have lost 18 pounds in 10 weeks (as of this moment there are only 16 days to go) and have done so by following a specific meal plan, adding supplements, working out 30 to 40 minutes each day, drinking WATER (in reality I drink green tea) and not giving up.

I used to walk by and see a bunch of overweight people working out through the window. What the heck was wrong with that picture, I would ask. The problem was that I forgot to look at the reflection in the window of ME. That is what was wrong. I was on the wrong side of the glass.

Brad Swartz had said at the beginning: "Mike, we want the weight loss experience at Vision Quest to be fast, easy, and fun.' I can't say honestly that "fun" is on my list but then I am mostly a geek, and the computer, camera, books and people are my "fun". Even with missing about 10% of scheduled workout days, you have to admit my progress is pretty good. (18 pounds won't win a prize though.) During the first 10 weeks I was sore a few days when I tried to push it. When I am on cardio equipment, I count the minutes down one by one. The benefit, of course, is that I can now bend over and pick up a pencil from the floor without needing to find someone or something to lean on.

So we are coming down to the wire. There is NO excuse for not hitting my target (though Easter was very tough as Cherie cooked up an amazing feast). The question will not be if I can lose the remaining 2 pounds to hit my goal. The question is: How much more than the 20 pound target will I lose? Every weigh-in, they post the top 25 participants based on weight loss percentage. I have never been in the top 25 as of yet. Maybe if I add five minutes a day and skim a few calories a day, I might hit a magic number that puts my name in the top 25.

The final question:

Biggest Loser VII is coming up around the bend. Vision Quest has locations in Seattle, Kent, Auburn, Puyallup. Do I go for another 20? Want to do it with me? Have I made a case that it may not be quite as tough as it seems?

OR... maybe you will do it where you are while I do it here. I am looking for a buddy. Crystal was my buddy the Biggest Loser VI. She is amazing with a loss of 14 pounds thus far. Next time? Do you want to be here? Let me know at buddy@biglosermike.com.

Fitness Club in Auburn, WA Video Interview

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 22:23:00 GMT

Sean shares his story about losing weight with the biggest loser competition at the local fitness club in Auburn, WA. (Vision Quest Sport and Fitness) Sean lost over 80 pounds. Incredible.

How did he lose over 80 pounds? The fitness club speaks often of the importance of coaching, supplements, meal plan, exercise workout plan, discipline, commitment, personal support, and, I suppose, the desire to make life just a little bit better. (and water)

I bet that work is easier, life is easier, and relationships are better for Shawn since his incredible change.

The countdown continues. Three weeks left in Biggest Loser VI in Auburn, WA.

Soon the sign-up will start for Biggest Loser VII contest. Go into Vision Quest Sport and Fitness in Auburn, WA and ask for Shawn. Tell him you saw the video on biglosermike.com and that you want to get into the Biggest Loser VII.

What a testimonial Sean has. It is good to know that those healthy people seen working in the fitness club / gym also know about the journey of weight loss from personal experience.

Fitness Club in Auburn WA has a Meal Plan for Michael

Sun, 04 Apr 2010 03:59:00 GMT

Here it is 60 days in and while I did share the supplements plan, I did not yet share the meal plan the personal trainer gave me at the Fitness Club in Auburn, WA.

The goal is to burn more calories than I consume by eating. Before the meal plan was created, I wrote down everything I ate for a week and reported back to the personal trainer with the list. I also answered a questionnaire to give her my food preferences. She then used my history to create the future meals. Thus I continued eating the way I did before, but with more specific quantities (and five meals!)

Here you go:

Breakfast
1	each	Banana - Medium 8 "
1	pack	Oatmeal - Instant pkt
AM Snack
1	scoop	Whey Drink Mix
.5	ounces	Cashews, roasted, lightly salted
Lunch
1	cup	Brown Rice Cooked
8	ounces	Chicken Breast / White Meat
PM Snack
4	ounces	Yogurt - fat free
Dinner
8	ounces	Halibut - broiled
.5	cup	Spinach - boiled drained
.5	cup	Spit pea soup
Evening Snack
1	cup	Blueberries
1.5	cup	Cottage Cheese 1 % fat
Total Calories		1721

There are many more numbers on my menu. Protein, Carbs, Fats, Calories. Did not include all the details. That would be too much exercise for my fingers.

As the weeks progressed, I replaced blueberries with strawberries and cashews with other nuts. I did increase my cucumber and spinach intake on many days. I love spinach and it was easy to give up split pea soup.

As long the plan was met for five meals, there were very few times I have been hungry. Alas, life is such that some days got out of control, skipped a meal and became famished. You know what happened then. Yep, it was make up time for food. The trick is don't get hungry. Eat before that.

The meal time has forced me to organize my schedule more tightly and improve on my brevity. Too much talking would increase the chance of missing that meal!

The calendar says 26 days left. April 29th is the big bash. Want to come see the final weigh in? You can throw food at me when I do my final weigh in!

Gluten Free Weight Loss is Possible While on Vision Quest

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 20:48:00 GMT

While on my new eating program at Vision Quest Sport and Fitness Biggest Loser VI I hit a small bump. Since last June I have cut wheat out of my diet. In the beginning it seemed like a negative. Look at the long list of foods with wheat.

When looking more closely, it is not so hard to discover the diversity of the world. There are many more grains than just wheat. The non-wheat gluten free diet has changed the way I eat and also changed the way I feel. The long list of health benefits from gluten free diet can be had by simply using Google.

So here was the bump. There are some Vision Quest Sport and Fitness supplements which had wheat. Thus I begin to search for alternatives.

Found one!

4Ever Fit Whey Isolate, 4Ever, Vanilla Shake, 1.8-Pound Package

Fruit Blast the Isolate 4.4 pounds (this is my preference)

So this is my 2nd meal while following the food plan my personal trainer has provided. Tasty, low calorie, no fat, and curbs hunger pangs for a sweet.

"Great tasting, mixes instantly. Refreshing fruit flavor. 23 g of Protein per serving. Refreshing fruit flavor. Aspartame free. Non GMO. Zero fat & only 1 carb. 4Ever Fit's Fruit Blast the Isolate uses a unique combination of cross-flow ultra filtration and advanced microfiltration."

Why buy on Amazon? Price. AND of course Amazon monitors sales and service pretty tightly so there is comfort in knowing that products will be delivered as promised.

Is this a personal testimonial? Yes. This customer is more than happy with this newly found food supplement. Most of the protein powder drinks I have experienced are chalky, won't mix well and some might say "yukky". 4Ever Fit Whey Isolate is a different than any in the past.

Is this a commercial? Sure. I am an Amazon Affiliate. Please remember, reputations are based on what a person will recommend. 4Ever Fit Whey Isolate is a protein powder drink like no other I have tried. Using the internet to shop around a little can get you free shipping too! (Don't have to use Amazon, Drugs.com has the product at a good price, too!)

After being sick for a week and then in the hospital on "watch alert" for a family member it seems my progress has slowed a bit in all areas. But I am back on the proverbial horse now and about to order my next batch of Tropical Mango Tropical Mango Fruit Blast the Isolate. (I know, Chocolate sounds good, too.)

Take aways:

Falling off the plan from illness or commitments is temporary.
The world is not built on wheat and there are benefits from gluten free.
Tropical Mango Fruit Blast Isolate Protein Mix is my favorite.

Ultimate Health Advice from Chinese Doc (not my personal trainer)

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 23:41:00 GMT

Would you believe magic answers about health and fitness which appear from the Internet sky via the virtual world? Look what health and fitness advice was sent to me by email today. It did NOT come from my health club in Auburn, WA. It made me SMink = Smile & Think at the Same Time. ™

Beginning of email.

The Ultimate Health Advice from Chinese Doc

Q: Doctor, I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life. Is this true?

A: Heart only good for so many beats, and that it... Don't waste on exercise. Everything wear out eventually. Speed up heart not make live longer; that like say you can extend life of car by driving faster. Want live longer? Take nap.

Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?

A: You must grasp logistical efficiencies. What does cow eat? Hay and corn. What are these? Vegetables. So, steak nothing more than efficient mechanism of delivering vegetables to system.. Need grain? Eat chicken. Beef also good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable). And pork chop can give 100% recommended daily allowance of vegetable products.

Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?

A: No, not at all. Wine made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine. That means they take water out of fruity bit; get even more of goodness that way. Beer also made out of grain. Bottoms up!

Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio?

A: If you have body and you have fat, ratio is one to one. If you have two bodies, ratio is two to one, etc.

Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?

A: Cannot think of single one, sorry. My philosophy: No Pain...Good!

Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?

A: YOU NOT LISTENING!!! ...... Foods fried in vegetable oil. How getting more vegetables be bad for you?

Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around theï¿½middle?

A: Definitely not! When you exercise muscle, it get bigger. You should only do sit-ups if want bigger stomach.

Q: Is chocolate bad for me?

A: You crazy? HELLO. Cocoa beans! Vegetable!!! Cocoa beans best feel-good food around!

Q: Is swimming good for your figure?

A: If swimming good for figure, explain whales to me.

Q: Is getting in-shape important for my lifestyle?

A: Hey! 'Round' is shape!

Well, I hope this has cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about food and diets. AND.......For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health. It's a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies:

The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
The Chinese drink very little red wineï and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
The Germans drink a lot of beers and eat lots of sausages and fatsï¿½
And suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

CONCLUSION!

Eat and drink what you like. Speaking English is apparently what kills you.

End of email.

That email is one of those viral things being passed from person to person. There is no apparent source. You did take it in jest. Right?

The question remains, if a person does NOT believe the advice above why do bad decisions persist? My doctor told me last year to lose weight or die earlier. Period. Lower my cholesterol or die earlier. Period. Maybe instead of sharing jokes, having the fear of death might be a better method of inspiring? Hope not.

Personal Trainer vs. Business Manager

Sun, 21 Mar 2010 06:25:00 GMT

What's the difference between a personal trainer and a business manager?

Both the manager and personal trainer may ask people to do something which is unappealing (at first)..
Both see and believe in the potential of others who may not see it in themselves.
Both communicate hope.
Both give inspiration.
Both set goals to push an individual to a new level.
Both have a deaf ear to complaining and whining.
Both need to listen between the lines and be aware of potential risk.
Both set up a system and live by a calendar.
Both train and develop by improving knowledge.
Both must be consistent and persistent to ensure success.
Both are removed from doing the actual work but instead act as a coach, teacher and guide.
Both measure results regularly.
Both give feedback for success or failures.
Both must live by strict principles which are not always popular.
Both have better success by being the example and "walking the talk"
Both help another overcome obstacles to ensure success.
Both are evaluated on the results of others they influence.
Both have success based on a vision, a plan, communication, great execution and in depth analysis of results.
Both must be leaders and need willing cooperation of others to reach a common goal.
Both need to show patience.
Both depend heavily on persuasion.
Both keep health at the top of their minds for the individual they are responsible for.
Neither can be a quitter.

Looks to me like the training ground for business management might be as a personal trainer. Ever try to encourage someone who was trying to lose weight or get into better shape? Not always a pleasant conversation. What type of person would take on this burden? Must be someone special.

Don't look at a personal trainer as a person who is trying to sell you something. Seems to me they need to think at a higher level since poor judgment or giving up will have a serious impact on lives. Imagine the risk a personal trainer takes each day as the health and well being of the person they coach is at stake.

Fortunately for me, my experience at Vision Quest Sport and Fitness (Health Club in Auburn, WA) has certified personal trainers who are able to assist and answer questions. They have been available and friendly. (No, I am not giving a shout out because they could mop the floor with me.)

Myth About 8 Glasses of Water vs. Health Club in Auburn WA Advice

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 05:44:00 GMT

Controversy is a constant when talking about fitness and health. What is good for health? What are the best weight loss options? Should I listen to my personal trainer in the health club in Auburn WA?
Here is one for you:

Claim: The average person needs to drink eight glasses of water per day to avoid being "chronically dehydrated."

Status per Snopes.com: False.

Example List: [Collected via e-mail, 2001

75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated.
In 37% of Americans, the thirst mechanism is so weak that it is often mistaken for hunger.
Even mild dehydration will slow down one's metabolism as much as 3%.
One glass of water shut down midnight hunger pangs for almost 100% of the dieters studied in a U-Washington study.
Lack of water is the number one trigger of daytime fatigue.
Preliminary research indicates that 8-10 glasses of water a day could significantly ease back and joint pain for up to 80% of sufferers.
A mere 2% drop in body water can trigger fuzzy short-term memory, trouble with basic math, and difficulty focusing on the computer screen or on a printed page.
Drinking 5 glasses of water daily decreases the risk of colon cancer by 45%, plus it can slash the risk of breast cancer by 79%, and one is 50% less likely to develop bladder cancer.

Now comes the controversy. These are said to be false. As you can see on Snopes.com, they have been spread around via email and the internet.

Snopes.com shows the how and why these claims are not true. Just read about it here: Medical Myths on Snopes

So what is a person to do? Listen to the Internet? Or listen to the personal trainer? To date, my personal trainer in Auburn, WA at Vision Quest Biggest Loser Competition has helped me lose 13 pounds so she has points in her favor. Yet the references Snopes refer to make me pause and ponder. What to do?

Fitness Club in Auburn WA Happy With Big Loser Mike

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 21:10:00 GMT

Last night was the weigh in for the Biggest Loser VI competition at Vision Quest fitness club in Auburn, WA. The photo above is not me, but yes, the new stats are mine.

Six weeks and thirteen pounds later I am still doing it! Can't honestly say the crowd was as big as during the last weigh in. I hope it is not because people have lost hope. I am getting it done slowly and being the biggest wimp in the world. I hope to give others inspiration to continue onward.

The last two weeks had more celery (which I like) and more cucumbers (which I also like). Yes, I am reading tha backs of the packages more. (This ticks me off a little as I don't want to be a package reader.) Until I get more numbers in my head about the calories in certain kinds of foods, it looks like the packages will be under my scrutiny.

13 pounds in six weeks for weight loss. They emphasized last night how to eat out and survive the adverse conditions you find in restaurants. Since this is a business I know and love and help others get success, I found it conflicting. Weight loss requires less, but eating out and creating success for business owners cries out "Sell more". I will work through the business vs. health conflicts.

The personal trainers also emphasize writing down everything. Tracking intake and types and lengths of exercises. Entrepreneurs do not always enjoy the tracking process and I have to develop simpler methods to track & record to ensure success. My current solution? A HTC TouchPro 2.

I can now take a photo, record a video, or make a voice note in an instant. Business Plus Fitness? How cool is that?

Want to see? Here is Zac who is making points about how to eat out at a restaurant, stay fit, get value and still be a happy guest. (Think he might need to go into the restaurant business with his know how.)

Notice the last photo? There is absolutely no cheating! Three people are involved to be sure there is accuracy and, of course, inspiration.

So much for me using only one foot on the scale.

How do the photos look? No flash. On the move and cropped down a bit.

Not ready for a photo contest but sharing seems ok.

Now I will make my notes on the go and listen to my audio books while I work out. Business, learning, and working out all in one.

When I get done, wonder if there is a special "how to" booklet for entrepreneurs such as I who are on the move and yet squeezing the clock too tight to "lose weight"? Maybe so. The Diet Plan for the Entrepreneur. 33 minutes a day.

Check out my new gadget. It is pretty powerful. (You can also buy them on eBay or at TMobile stores.)

Does My Personal Trainer Know Chewing Gum can Make You Thinner?

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:04:00 GMT

Chewing Gum Conundrum

By EatingWell on Mar 10, 2010 12:00 PM in Healthy Eating

By Emily Sohn, EatingWell.com

Teachers may outlaw chewing gum in class: it sticks to desks and hair, not to mention that bubble-blowing is a big taboo. But the sticky stuff is gaining ground as a potentially good-for-you treat. Preliminary research suggests that regular chewing can help you remember names, make you thinner, whiten teeth, and more. Just last year, the Wrigley Company formed the Wrigley Science Institute to fund gum studies around the world.

Keep reading about the Chewing Gum Conudrum.

To Quote Ashley Fox - As long as you can fly in one seat -

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 21:14:00 GMT

Ashley Fox has a thing or two to say about my big loser Mike adventure. Of course as I paid for my zero calorie ice tea, I glanced at all of the freshed baked goodies in the cabinet she pointed to.

The outstanding staff person Ashly Fox said: "As long as you can fly with just one seat? You're OK." That became her pitch for me to "go for it".

Could this be true?

Have I lost perspective somewhere and set the bar too high? Isn't life about the little things? Like those delicious baked cinnamon rolls she again pointed to (while she repeated her quote?)

Maybe this is where the true issue lies. It has nothing to do with weight loss, it has to do with seats on an airplane and other conveniences.

In case you are wondering, I made it out of the specialty Bakery in the Bellevue mall without so much as a nibble on the pastries.

Thank you Ashley Fox for your great service, smile and quote. (not for the temptation though)

Two more days until weigh in. Keeping priorities and knowing the big picture goal (which is about health, well-being and relationships) will certainly help one stay the course.

Scientific Evidence Shows About Popular Health Supplements

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 04:50:00 GMT

Don't be laughing so hard the next time you hear a friend talking about how supplements from a health club in Auburn, WA improve health. Take a look at new scientific research.

Is the added cost of supplements you hear about from friends and media "worth it"? The health supplements scientific study shows you in an easy to understand study.

Read the full story behind the image at Information Is Beautiful and check out the interactive for yourself.

Want to See a Tug-o-War at Fitness Club in Auburn WA?

Sat, 06 Mar 2010 06:46:00 GMT

Preparing the details for Vision Quest fun with a Tug o War before the Biggest Loser VI weigh in. What a relief, its the personal trainers (not us) who compete.

Ready for competition.

Time to Rumble

Who's ready?

Is it muscule or skill?

Or food supplements? Fitness Trainer against Fitness Trainer.

Or is it in the wrists and hands?

Or in the mean face you can make to the other person?

I am very glad it's not me pulling that rope! oh look! There is my trainer!

Who is she up against?

Ok. You don't get to see the winner (or losers). Sorry.

Fun is over. It's time to get to the weigh in. (shoes off is ok?)

They debate the rules. Shoes off is ok.

That was fun! Great entertainment. Better than a TV Show!

Thanks to team Vision Quest, I feel inspired to get some cash ready. I know who to bet on next time.

Matt Hoover is Role Model for Personal Trainer Auburn

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 18:07:00 GMT

Ever heard of Matt Hoover? You know, the Biggest Loser Winner? Someone who is an inspiration for each personal trainer in Auburn?

Here is his book.

Need inspiration? Want to learn from someone who was the jock, became the jock's worst nightmare, and then won the Biggest Loser Competition on the TV?

Here is your chance. Here is Matt Hoover's book.

How about instead of following my slow and steady progress (though humorous), follow Matt's escapades on his blog. (Or do both.)

Matt is a local in my area. Inspiring to say the least. Have you thought it was time to change your life? You might have something special here. Book, Blog, and he is on Twitter too! BiggestLoserMat.

Health Club in Auburn WA Making Pants Fall Down

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 17:26:00 GMT

Looks like the health club in Auburn, WA I have been going to (Vision Quest) is making my pants fall down. Here is my question for this: Why doesn't a fitness / health club such as this offer clothing for sale? Maybe some workout outfits? (The photo above IS NOT a photo of me.)

Since the members are obviously going to have changes in their dimensions it seems logical that fitness clothing, at the very least, would be available. Don't you think it would be even better if they were at a discount based on how much weight was lost? (Or muscle gained.)

No worries, looks like I can order online. Good ole' Amazon has these fancy shorts.

As a person is shrinking, at what stage are new clothes on the to do list?

Is it best to get temporary clothes during the shrinking process? Suspenders? A large blanket? What to do?

I know you are wondering. You weighed in Mike. How much? Where you at?

So far, after four weeks the total loss from the official scale is seven pounds. The fitness / health club in Auburn, WA Biggest Loser VI competition summary:

Avg. workout time per day: 40 minutes.
Average calorie intake per day 1750.
Other activity? Nope.
Cheat? (Ok, a few times)
Missed workouts? One.
Dissapointed? Yes.
Satisfied? Yes.

Progress continues even through the bumps.

Persistency and consistency will continue.

Will I make it? Or will I quit? My days are so full, will I be able to make it every day? Or will projects and clients snag me away?

What about you? If I can lose 7 pounds in 30 days. Seems like you could too!

Weight Loss vs. Restaurant Marketing - Who Wins?

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 16:42:00 GMT

Restaurant marketing vs. weight loss. The battle is on the street. Which will have better business success? Which will you resist?

First of all, there is too much conflict. How can a person battle the mixed messages? No wonder we have such a difficult time. Which is the best marketing message to think about? Seems to me Baskin & Robbins wins.

Second of all, this photo is from Friends of Irony. Go there. Vote for this photo. It is a classic and represents America at its best. Friends of Irony is great!

Third: If you have a business with problems such as shown in the photo? Talk to Dr. Bruce.

I wonder. Which are you going to choose?