Percy's Wellness Journal

The Drama of Body Fat vs Great Abs...My Ongoing Saga

2012-03-07T11:05:00.001-08:00


Ideally I would love to have this body and abs... but would settle for a flat stomach and no flat tire sides

My ongoing obsession with getting rid of my mid section and attaining a flat abdomen continues. I realize that I can't expect miracles...especially because I've only been doing to workout thing for a year. BUT DAMN-IT...why can't I have genetically been born with a great body.

I get angry that even some of the huskier guys/large guys I see have most of their mid section fat at their belly (beer belly) and not at their sides. I wish my damn obliques would just disappear...I would be totally happy with getting rid of them...I wouldn't even mid if i had a pooch on the front as long as the sides were gone. REALLY FRUSTRATING! I would love for the sides of my my upper body to just be in line all the way down without having to go through the bump of the flat tire side...hmph!

I read an great article today on The Great Abs Mistake and found it very enlightening and informative. I will be trying this approach next. Lowering body fat is extremely hard for me because I have to much of it. Considering that I have never really worked out in my life and have always had the flat tire mid-section even when I was at my thinnest...in high school. Those damn obliques have been with me throughout my whole life. I realize that liposuction may be the best solution for removing them but I would like to really attain the ideal body for me without going that route. I have dedicated my 40s to being the best shape I have ever been and by 45 (2 years from now) I would like to be as close to the above photo as possible...well at least as close as my own body will let me be to that.

Another great of tidbit that my spin instructor told me yesterday after spin class. Every six weeks we should change up our exercise program...otherwise we plateau. I thought this was interesting because I was wondering why at the beginning of my bootcamp sessions my body was reacting positively but during sessions two and three it was hardly responding to changes at all. So every six weeks we should change up our workout routine so our muscles are challenged in a different way. Plus it helps with the monotony of working out and makes it more exciting.

I continue to enjoy my journey from Flab to Fab. I am still working hard on it and looking forward to the next year in meeting my fitness and physical goals. I sincerely appreciate all the support and encouragement! Thanks again for listening to my ramblings.

-Percy

Photos I had to share

2012-02-27T16:54:00.003-08:00

I had to share these photos of my family just so everyone has a clue of how much we've changed in 3 years. I've shared them on Facebook before.

My partner/husband had Bariatric surgery in September 2009 and lost over 130 lbs through the surgery and with my journey from Flab to Fab I lost about 55lbs. As a couple we shedded over 200lbs.

It's amazing how weight plays a difference in one's life...not only by the way we look but the way we feel as well. You don't realize that anything is wrong with you until you realize there is something wrong with you. But I have to say that we both feel like a hundred bucks and glad we can enjoy shopping for cool clothing again. The only thing that changed in a positive manner in these photos is that our son is growing up just fine!

It's funny looking back...I loved Ross through all his sizes (I'm sure he feels the same way). His weight never was in a factor on what I found attractive with him. I'm just glad he is much healthier now because that means he will be around much longer. It's also funny at how much younger we look! We must have lost at least 10 years in our looks alone!

Thanks again for listening to my ramblings!

Percy

What A Difference A Year Makes

2012-01-19T11:59:00.000-08:00

Well folks...It's officially been one year since my journey from Flab to Fab began and I have to say I am pretty proud of myself! I started this journey at said 237lbs...but in reality I was probably closer to 245-250lbs. I didn't officially weigh myself before I started. But I would say at my largest I was close to the 245-250 range. Today, I am at a healthier 195lbs...that's 55lbs that I shedded in just a year. I know it's not "biggest loser" numbers but it's a huge lost and I can totally feel the difference and to me that's an accomplishment on it's own.

The bigger lesson in this journey has been being conscious of my health and making sure that I am doing everything possible to stay healthy and fit. Thanks to the Chemical Balance Diet for jump starting my transformation. It's was a hard thing to do, but I stuck with it for four weeks and seeing a loss of 20+lbs in a month really motivated me to do more for myself. The CBT taught me me that I could do without many of the things I ate and drank before...more specific cutting sodas and other bad food options out of my diet...things that I swore I couldn't live without. Trust me I still indulge in sweets...but I do it in moderation. I haven't drank soda in a year, and before I started this journey I drank Diet Coke and Diet Pepsi as if it was necessary to sustain my life. I use to tell myself that if I cut out soda from my diet that it would give me headaches, etc, etc, It was all BS..that stuff is the worst! I don't miss it one bit.

In addition, this journey motivated me to get moving and active. I learned, thanks to Manny's Fitness Program, that I am capable of phsyically doing anything I set my mind to. Who would've thunk that this time last year that I would physically be doing 70+ regular pushups, 100+ situps, running 2-5 miles, and keeping up with 20-30 somethings 3 times a week! Not bad for a 42 year old. I am probably in the best physical shape I have every been...though I still have a ways to go. Physical activity and sweat really does make a difference in your weight loss regiment. If you think that you can just cut down what you eat and do nothing physically...YOU ARE FOOLING YOURSELF. All that trouble you are putting yourself through will not amount to anything, because physically you are not doing anything to create muscle to battle the fat! SO GET MOVING AND SWEAT...you won't regret it.

Here's the difference between the 1/17/11 Percy and the 1/17/12 Percy:

Before                                                                 After
245+ lbs                                                              195 lbs
40-42" waist                                                        34" waist
XL-XXL Shirt size                                               L Shirt size
no physical activity works out 3-5 days a week

Looking at this it's a huge change and I am still continuing my journey. What I would like to do in this next year are the following:

Shed another 20lbs (I would like to be in the 175 range)
Increase my muscle tone especially in my upper body.
Cut the mid section fat even more. I eventually want to see a flat stomach and no love handles (unfortunately the love handles have been with me all my life)
Prepare to run a half marathon
Get down to a size 32" waist

I really appreciate all the support that I have gotten from my family and friends. I especially want to thank my MFP family for pushing me beyond my limits.

To all those who have read my blog and are going through their own journey from Flab to Fab remember one thing...YOU CAN DO. The only thing that comes between you and your goal is yourself. Take the chance to push yourself out of your comfort zone and always believe in yourself. YOU ARE YOUR OWN GREATEST MOTIVATOR!

Thanks again for all the support and for listening to my ramblings! Here's to an even better and healthier 2012!

-Percy

Plateau...schmateau

2011-11-17T14:40:00.001-08:00

Well...I really think I have hit a plateau. Not sure what to do next. I am maintaining in the 190 range give or take couple of pounds in each direction. But really I have not moved drastically in either direction for quite a while. A good thing? Maybe. Frustrating...sometimes. Happy...very much so.

I have given up at looking at the scale...because I know it will read the same and I will just sigh with disappointment. Why should I be disappointed...right? I think mentally, trim and slim means lower numbers on scale (in my head that's less than 170...don't ask where that number came from) and being a Flabulous person for such a long time those numbers become comforting and really affect your outlook on yourself. It's all mental drama, which is hard to remove when you are trying to reach certain goals. It is what it is and I am still very proud of where I am today...in comparison to where I was this same time last year. I was just hoping that by January 17, 2012, my one year anniversary of my journey from Flabulous to Fabulous,...I would be under that 170 mark. I still have a month to go...right?

Reality check. Here's the real deal. Why I am obsessed about being in that lower number scale. I know that, today, I am more fit and healthy than I have been most of my adult life. I am 42 years old but I feel as though I am in my 30s...and can even past for it...if not younger to some people.The other day...quite flattering actually...someone thought I was in my late 20s! Imagine that. I had to laugh. I have more stamina and I am exercising with greater intensity than I ever have...even doing boot camp with Manny's Fitness Program in Santa Barbara three days a week! I have gone from doing push-ups on my knees...barely doing 20 to 60+ regular push-ups, running 1.5 miles in less than 15 minutes (I could not even run the whole course the first time around), keeping up with my high intensity spin class, and gaining muscle with free weights. When I take off my shirt, I am actually happy to see what my body looks like. Not perfect by any means, but actually looking better than what it did last year...and I have muscles.

Reality check part deux...I am fitting into size 34s and I wear medium to large shirts. So why should I be disappointed. I shouldn't be disappointed is the point. This time last year, I was wearing XL-XXL shirts and size 40+ pants...so I should be proud of where I am. I sleep better, I look better, and I am healthier, so all in all that is a HUGE accomplishment. Who knew I could even lose the 50+ pounds? I sure didn't think I could do it and in reality weight loss and health was not even on my radar yet on 11-17-10...I was perfectly happy being flabulous and I didn't realize (or had a clue) that I really needed to make changes. What I am most proud of is my transformation was done on my own terms and my own will and hard work. My body transformation is my own work of art.

So what am I getting to? I guess what I am trying to say is this. DON'T BE TO HARD ON YOURSELF. Change does not happen instantly. It's an ongoing process. With weight loss it's about being consistent and doing what's right for your body...eating right, hydrating correctly, and exercising. THOSE ARE THE ONLY THREE THINGS YOU NEED TO GAUGE YOURSELF ON! Be proud of your accomplishments and don't let the scale get you down. Have a cheat day...but remember not to cheat yourself either by making excuses in reaching your goals. I still have 20 pounds to lose to reach my goal weight...but I also know that it's an ongoing process. If it takes my another year to remove the last 20 pounds than it will be another year...and that's okay. I like the new Percy that I see and I am going to do my damnedest not to go back to where I was a year ago.

Hopefully you are all happy with your own transformations and journey. Remember to celebrate your accomplishments and know that you are the only person who can determine your success!

Thanks for listening to my ramblings!
-Percy

H20 = Body Beautiful

2011-11-01T16:04:00.000-07:00

During this transformation year, aka my journey from Flab to Fab, I have come to realize how important water is to my health and my diet. It truly is the miracle drink! Maybe when Ponce de Leon discovered the fountain of youth...he might have discovered the first ever drinking fountain. Who knows? Water does a body good and makes your skin so much younger looking too!

My water intake for, let's say, the last 30 years of my life, before I started this diet, consisted of diet soda. I hardly drank water at all and made the excuse that soda had water in it. While soda might have helped me from becoming dehydrated...it also added a lot of bad stuff into my body! Well I've done a totally 360 on my drinking habits. I have don't drink soda anymore (very rarely) and my water intake has increased significantly! I consonantly have a 1L bottle near by just to remind me to drink and rehydrate throughout the day. I do about 3-4 liters a day or about a gallon a day.

Water intake is crucial to your weight loss plan...and if anyone tells you any differently they are lying to you! Sure you go to the bathroom consistently, but that too will subside and your body will begin to adjust. Peeing is a good thing...because it's getting all the bad stuff out of your system. When I have not drank enough water and have eaten poorly...I notice that I go pee when I start properly hydrating myself again. I also know when I have not had enough water in my day because I feel heavier and I feel much less energized...it could be psychological, but for me those two things tells me I have not had enough aqua.

There are tons of ways for calculating daily fluid requirements. A simple equation to help adults figure their fluid needs is that for every pound of body weight, you need about half an ounce of fluid intake per day. For instance, if you weigh 140 lbs., simply multiply 140 by .5 to estimate your daily fluid needs in ounces, then divide by eight to estimate your fluid needs in cups per day, rounding up to the nearest full cup. [example: 140 x .5 = 70 ounces; 70 ounces divided by 8 = 9 cups of fluid per day]

0.5 ounces x Body Weight in Pounds = Daily Fluid Requirement in ounces

In most instances after calculating your water intake it will probably be in the range of the common recommendations of 8-12 glasses of water a day.

Anyway...this is my advice for the day. Drink water - Stay healthy!

-Percy

Going Down and Pumping Up!

2011-10-05T09:40:00.000-07:00

As most of you know I started a second round of the Chemical Balance Diet almost five weeks ago in anticipation of my trip to Riviera Maya Mexico. Again...I have to say how hard this diet is, but if you stick to it...you will see results! Well I didn't stick to the plan as I did the first go around...I modified it in my own way to meet my needs for this round. My goal was to lose an additional 10 lbs in 4 weeks. Well...I met that goal and lost a total of 12 lbs!

I am very happy that I was FINALLY able to get below that 190 threshold and into a new set of numbers! My original goal was 175 but currently happy to be in the 180s (fluctuate between 185 and 188) right now. I have to say that between the Chemical Balance Diet and doing Manny's Fitness Camp not only have I dropped the weight, but I have also gained some muscle and endurance! I am really proud to be where I am physically, not only weight wise but also the amount of working out that I have been doing. It's a long way from being 240+ lbs and not having any sort of physical activity this time last year.

Talking about working out. On top of working out at the Y, I have ventured into bootcamp territory and I have to say that I LOVE IT! Manny's Fitness Camp has really pushed me physically, challenging what I thought I could do and showing me what I can actually do physically. When I started the bootcamp...I was not able to do regular push-ups...I did knee push-ups of about 60...now I am doing 42+ regular push-ups and 60+ situps! On top of that...I was never a runner. For my first fitness test, we had to run 1.5 miles...YES ONE and a HALF MILES! I have never done anything like that before. On my first fitness test I had to run/walk (mostly walk) the 1.5 miles and I did it in just under 19 minutes. NOW I am running the full 1.5 miles in 15 minutes or less...still struggling but finding the stride and learning to love running. Yes I have to say I am really proud of myself for keeping up with all of Manny's bootcamp antics!

Moving forward, I am going to continue working on the physical appearance of my body. After going to Mexico and seeing some really awesome bodies...I want my to be there too! So I am continuing with Manny's Fitness Camp and also increasing my workout at the Y. Hopefully between those physical activities and watching what I eat, it will get me to that place where I want to be physically. Here's to hoping that I get there before my one year anniversary of my road to wellness...also know as the road from Flab to Fab (January 17)!

Thanks again for all the support and listening to my ramblings.

-Percy

Chemical Balance Diet Part Deux

2011-09-02T11:11:00.000-07:00

Mexico is a mere 3-weeks away and I am off for seven days to warm ocean breezes, unlimited drinks, and of course a fabulous wedding that I am designing and coordinating. My family is coming along so it will be a great vacation for them as well.

So...in preparation for prancing around in a swimsuit (no not a Speedo) I am hoping to lose some additional poundage before I leave. I realize that I probably don't need to lose anymore weight...since I am pretty happy at where I am and how I am looking, but...I would like to shrink the mid section a little more. I hate my mid section! I've always had these damn love handles, but I am working on it! With that said, I am hoping to lose another 10-15 pounds before I leave...so I have restarted the Chemical Balance Diet. This diet was so successful in jump starting my weight loss back in January. Now, I am hoping it will help in losing the additional pounds. I started round two of CBT on Monday 8/29/11.

This diet, like I have said before, is hard, because you get really tired of eating some of the stuff on food list...for me chicken and tomato! Plus you really have to just limit yourself to the foods and the combinations on the diet. But if you can endure and stick to the plan for JUST FOUR WEEKS it truly is transforming! Again, I started the Chemical Balance Diet on Monday and I am on day 5...and so far I have lost 6 lbs. I know you are not suppose to weigh yourself until the end of the week, but I was just curious to see where I was...that included a cheat day on Tuesday (which I do not recommend at all because it leads to more cheat days and than you just go spiraling back to where you started). So if I keep going at this rate and staying on course, hopefully, by the time I get on the plane I will have met my 10-15 lb goal (if not more).

I am a believer that the Chemical Balance Diet is a revolutionary program that really is helping people jump start their weight loss. I am sure it's a lot like other carb-free diets, but for some reason I really think the food combinations really help to get the metabolism ramped up again! During my first round on the diet, I loss about 26 lbs in four weeks...which lead me to changing my eating habits and also exercising more. To date I have lost 50lbs (okay 56 lbs) and I currently exercise daily. I do a mixture of cardio and weights, but most recently have added bootcamp training three days a week!

Seriously, if you are looking for a program to go from Flab to Fab...you really should consider the Chemical Balance Diet! It changed my life and Flabulousa does not want to go back to where I was. If you have questions regarding the diet, feel free to email me or comment below and I can try to answer your questions to the best of my ability regarding the diet.

Remember the hardest thing about weight loss is committing to it and doing it. If you can set your mind to do the Chemical Balance Diet for JUST FOUR WEEKS and dedicating yourself to doing it the way it is designed, I can guarantee that it will alter the way you eat and also kick start your own journey from Flab to Fab...and you will see weight loss in the double digits. When I originally started the diet in January, I did not have a exercise program as part of it. I only started to exercise when I completed the diet. I suggest that while on the Chemical Balance Diet, you should do some sort of fitness program as well...even if it means walking for 15-30 minutes a day.

Anyway, I am looking forward to see where I am weight wise by the end of this round. My original goal was to be at 175 at the end of June 2011...never got there but did get to 195. If I reach that during this phase, I will be happy...but even if I end up 10 lbs lighter to 185 that would be fantastic too! Remember this...you are in control of your own journey. No one can make you do something you are not ready to do for yourself. So when you are ready to fully commit than you know it's time to start your own journey...regardless of what that journey is.

Thanks again for listening to my ramblings! Let me know how I can support you!

-Percy

Six Month Plus Update

2011-08-02T16:04:00.000-07:00

It's just been over six months since I started my journey from Flab to Fab! I started this journey on January 17, 2011 and it's been quite exciting and enlightening. I look great but more importantly I feel great.

I have gone from a fat 240 lbs (I said 237 at the beginning, but I really think I weighed much more than 240...at my heaviest) guy who didn't get much exercise, okay none. Now I am a fabulous 190ish dude (I go from 190-195 in and out) who works out 6 days a week. Getting here was not easy and maintaining is even harder. I would love to lose another 10-15 lbs, but I am pretty happy at where I am now.

What has changed in my life:

I no longer drink soda, water is now my drink of choice.
I watch what I eat but I don't deprive myself either.
I make conscious choices regarding the types of food I eat and what it would mean to me.
I listen to what my body is telling me and it's a good indicator when I've over indulged (sluggish no energy and bloated) or just ate something that doesn't work well for me.
I workout and workout hard (weights, cardio, spin and boot camp) about 1.5 hours a day.
I am increasing my muscle so it will take care of the fat.
I take better pride in the way I look, because I feel much better about myself as a person.
I make no excuses.

It's amazing how people think I look much younger than I am and how they say I look 10 years younger than my actual age! It makes me feel good...trust me it's a motivator. I am glad I no longer look like a dad of three (I only have one) wearing my jorts (jean shorts) with my white socks and sandals....I was starting to dress pretty dumpy as Flabulosa...because nothing looked right on my anyway. Now, I love to shop again, especially because I can get great deals on the sale racks for my new size (33/34 waist and size large shirts).

Trust me, I still have a long way in shaping my body and I am still trying to reduce the mid section...UGH...that's so hard to tone and get rid of. They say the first place you gain fat is the last place you lose it and for me it's right in the middle of my body. Seriously, I am looking at getting the love handles sucked out! Instead of getting a butt, I got love handles...my mom's family's' butt went to my sides instead...I know sucks for me. But the flat tires have reduced in size...but it's still my nemesis.

This is a picture that my cousin dug up of me with my mom, who sadly died of pancreatic cancer after a two-year battle last week. This photo was taken on July 4 2009, just over two years ago and right before my mom's diagnosis. As you can see I was much larger than I am now...HUGE. At my mom's funeral last week, this was part of the slide show and me and other family members gasped when this was on the screen. I can't believe at how much I have changed in two years...better yet in six months. So let this be a motivator...if I can do it you can all do it as well!

The biggest motivator is yourself...no one else! Once you are ready to commit and do it for yourself, without making excuses, than you will definitely succeed. Getting a good support group is also a plus...but what I found really helpful was to publicly journal my experience, because other people started to support me and also kept me in check. I also met others on their own journey to fabulousness! I have to give it up to the Chemical Balance Diet that jump started my road from Flab to Fab and to my doctor who scared me out of my wits regarding my blood pressure and cholesterol!

Like I said, being healthy is a journey and it's one journey that has changed my life for the better! Start your own journey when the time is right for you. Commit even when it's hard not to...stick to the plan and to your needs and you will succeed!

Thanks again for listening to my ramblings and for your on going support!

-Percy

Weeks 21 to 23 Roundup: Status Quo

2011-06-27T15:38:00.000-07:00

Well you have all probably wondered what has happened to me in the last three weeks since I have not posted any updates or any like that. I have to say everything is fine and I continue to be in "status quo" mode. I have not really lost or gained any weight, I am just staying around the 190 range or in and out of there - depending on what I am eating. I am feeling great and my body is feeling wonderful as well.

I have ventured into the free weight segment of my workout and I have to say the weights are making a difference in the way my body is looking. I am currently doing a mixture of free weights and the techno gym on M, W, and F and currently doing spin classes on T and Th. The mixture is good...and I have to say spin class is grueling but totally worth it. I am noticing muscles popping out here and there and my chest is getting some sort of shape now...there's actually pecs on my body and it's not fat! My mid section has also shrunk down noticeably...but I still have those DAMN love handles and not sure how to remove them completely. I am seriously thinking of getting cryolipolysis or the new freeze fat liposuction just to get rid of those darn things. I am also going to look into joining boot camp with some friends to see how that can impact my day to day physical workout and help me through my body transformation. But as far as further weight loss, I am basically maintaining until my body is ready to lose more of the weight. Don't get me wrong, I don't want to be a muscle man or anything, but I would like some shape in my body so I can go topless on the beach with no shame. Still looking for that Daniel Craig, Christopher Meloni, or Rob Lowe body...again nothing too much just age appropriate.

I am currently wearing size 34 or 32 pants depending on the cut and comfortably wearing Large shirts...a far cry from the tight size 40s pants and XL to XXL shirts I use to wear. I am not going to complain where I am right now but I am still very much dedicated in keeping the weight off and continuing on my journey from Flab to Fab! It's an ongoing process and it really is hard work to maintain your figure.

As you can see, I really don't have much of an update. I will be making a new goals coming up in the next month, which will include some measurements to my muscle areas! Thanks again for listening to my ramblings and for the continued support. Let me know how I can support you! By the way this is what I look like as of this weekend, summer solstice in Santa Barbara...pictured with my son...and yes I am wearing white!

Thanks!

-Percy

Week 19 & 20 Roundup: Stable and Balanced

2011-06-08T13:38:00.000-07:00

Well...I think my body is telling me to let it stabilize and maintain where I am at the moment because I am seeing very little changes in my weight numbers in the last couple of weeks. A little here and there but nothing drastic. Frankly...I am okay with that. I know I had a goal of 165 by July 1, which I will not meet, but all in all maintaining and staying balanced is A-OK with me.

I am down almost 50lbs and while I have gained some weight here and there, I have consistently been around the 190 zone for the last couple of weeks. I have also only lost 9 lbs in the last 3 months...even though I have increased my workout and continue to watch what I eat (I am attributing it to muscle gain). I think this is a good place for me to maintain at the moment while continuing to workout. Trust me, I am not going to go back to where I was in January and I am going to continue the healthy course with my workout and food intake. If I lose more weight...GREAT...but if I don't it's okay as long as I am still transforming my body by adding muscle and definition. I am absolutely happy with my current achievements and body transformation!

Let it be...for now at least

What I am learning is that obsessing about the "number" is not a good thing, because ultimately you will disappoint yourself and do something bad for your body. I would rather tell myself that this is where my body wants me to be at the moment. I truly believe that your body tells you when it needs to lose, gain, or maintain and mine is saying stay here and lets take a breather. So here I stay stable and balanced until it's time again to drop the last 20-25 lbs or so.

Currently, I am fitting into size 34 waist pants comfortably...sometimes 32s, wearing size large shirts and on occasion size mediums. In my recent photo below I am wearing a very "cut small" large shirt and size 34 shorts...both felt great and I was comfortable to be in them. It's nice that I can shop and pick nice clothes again and feel like I genuinely look good in it. I feel great, I feel healthy, and when I look in the mirror I really like what I see. So...for now...I am happy to be where I am. It's such a drastic change from the size 40+ waist pants, XXL shirts, and my doughboy (bloated) look, that I was at, when I started this journey on January 17,2011! I love that my pectoral muscles are starting to develop and my chest actually protrudes out further than my stomach now! I know...little changes makes me happy. My tummy is starting to flatten too...working on it still and trying to eradicate the love handles...at least it's not longer muffin topping on my pants..well maybe a little but not as bad as it did before!

Here's a look at my transformation since January 2011.

Week 19 Facts
Starting Weight after Week 18: 192.6 lbs
Week 19 Weigh In: 190.8 lbs
Week 19 Weight Loss: -1.8 lbs

Week 20 Facts
Starting Weight after Week 19: 190.8 lbs
Week 20 Weigh In: 190.0 lbs
Week 20 Weight Loss: -0.8 lbs

Total Journey Profile So Far
Starting Weight on 1/17/11: 237 lbs
Weigh in on 06/5/11: 190.0 lbs
Total Weight Loss So Far: -47 lbs

July 1, 2011 Goal Progress
Goal Weight: 165 lbs
Current Weight: 190 lbs
Number of Pounds to Goal: -25 lbs
Number of Weeks to Goal: 3 weeks
Pounds per week to reach goal: -8.33 lbs (I'll be happy if I continue to lose weight and looking forward to setting a more realistic goal in July!)

Thanks again for all your support and listening to my ramblings!

-Percy

Week 18 Roundup: Shaving Off the Pounds

2011-05-24T12:32:00.000-07:00

As you all know, last week I packed on the pounds rather than shaved them off. Well let me tell you I reversed the process again and currently back on track in removing the extra baggage off my body. Truth be told I was pretty disappointed in myself for going the opposite way and I just felt like I let myself down. But, we are not perfect and don't beat yourself up for a little slippage. You got to get back on that horse and try again...well if that's what you want to do. As I've said before - don't deprive yourself of something you are craving because it only leads to sneaky eating. Instead indulge in the craving and eat responsibly...not excessively!

I stated last week, to reverse my course of gaining weight I would go back on the Chemical Balance Diet that I started this whole journey on. Let me tell you - that diet is HARD as hell! I don't know how I stuck to it for four-weeks but I didn't even last a week this second time around. Maybe it was the thought of eating chicken and tomatoes again for 4 weeks, but whatever it is I could not stick to it. So my theory is true...when you are ready to drop the weight, mentally and physically ready, and able to commit...you will do it no matter how hard it is and you will stick to a plan to succeed. BUT...YOU HAVE TO BE READY TO GO THE COURSE WITH NO EXCUSES. I think that is how I got through it the first time around.

What I did instead was continue eating responsibly, cutting out the carbs and sweets (yes the Nutella was not helping) and making sure that I was not overeating or over indulging. I lost weight in a week and also back on track to reaching my July 1 goal. I know this week I have lost even more and hoping that I am finally going to be under the 190 mark when I weigh in this coming Sunday. What I have incorporated is something that I read...8 foods that you should eat everyday. Not only will it help with weight management, but it also helps build muscles and all other good things for your body. I have seen a big difference already and it really helps with my workouts too. The 8 foods you should eat everyday with the addition of a protein (good for vegetarians too) are:

Spinach
Yogurt
Tomatoes
Carrots
Blueberries
Black Beans
Walnuts
Oats

I got this information from the Eat This Not That series by David Zinczenko. If you click on this link 8 foods you should eat everyday you can click on any of the above named items and it will give you their benefits!

What I have learned this week

The biggest lesson I learned this week from my weight gain in Week 17 is that carbs and sweets when not eaten in moderation makes you gain weight. Not only because of the sodium or sugar content, but it also retains water which is not good for your system. It clogs your pores! But it also makes you weigh more. So limit your intake of your bad carbs and sweets. Eating a loaf of French Bread and eating dessert with every meal does not necessitate healthy eating...its overindulging...and it's exactly what I did in Week 17.

The other thing I learned this week, which freaked me out a bit, is that with rapid weight loss you will have hair loss! I have been losing strands of hair in the shower, more than the usual amount and it got me freaked out. I like my hair and while I know I am thinning...I am not ready to lose it all and go bald. So I did a little research and sure enough - the hair loss is reversible - but is part of rapid weight loss too. It's not that I am doing it unhealthy - but truthfully losing 40+ pounds in a matter of 4 months is pretty drastic in most cases. So that is something any of you losing weight should know.

The other thing I discovered this week is increasing the amount of exercise in my daily routine is a good thing. I keep switching back and forth on what the best way is for one to exercise and I have come to the conclusion that any intense exercise either weights or cardio is good for your weight management. But increasing your weights is great for muscle tone...and I am finally gaining some and starting to see progress! Exercise is a crucial part of weight loss - so if you think dieting is enough...it isn't! YOU MUST WORK OUT...don't get it twisted!

Week 18 Facts
Starting Weight after Week 17: 197.7 lbs
Week 18 Weigh In: 192.6 lbs
Week 18 Weight Loss: -5.1 lbs

Total Journey Profile So Far
Starting Weight on 1/17/11: 237 lbs
Weigh in on 05/22/11: 192.6 lbs
Total Weight Loss So Far: 44.4 lbs

July 1, 2011 Goal Progress
Goal Weight: 165 lbs
Current Weight: 192.6 lbs
Number of Pounds to Goal: -27.6 lbs
Number of Weeks to Goal: 5 weeks
Pounds per week to reach goal: -5.52 lbs (lofty goal...but will be happy it I come in within 10lbs)

Thanks for listening to my ramblings again! Let me know how I can support you all!

-Percy

Week 16 & 17 Roundup: The Ups and Downs of Wellness

2011-05-16T14:14:00.000-07:00

Getting healthy is serious business! Some days you are down and some days you are up...and it can change from week to week! Seriously, managing your weight could be a full time job! It's definitely like riding a seesaw...it has its highs and lows!

The last couple of weeks has really been rough on me...mentally and physically. It seems as hard as I try, it just does not seem to be enough and it's taking a whole lot of effort to get into the next brackets of weight - in my case the 180s. I have been losing anywhere between .2 pounds to .8 pounds and nothing more.

On week 16 I got down to 191.7 lbs just one pound away from getting into my 180s, but this week, week 17, I gained 6 lbs because I ate like a pig all weekend and really didn't watch my food intake...let's just say I had a lot of carbs and desserts. In addition, while I worked out 30 minutes on cardio machines during the days I didn't get he workout I have become accustomed to here at home. So I am really bummed that I am back in the 197 range this week. I have a whole lot of making up to do to get back down again. So, I am putting myself back on the Chemical Balance Diet that I started on and hope that it clears my system of all the junk I ate this week and get me back on track to losing weight and getting down to my goal of 165. Also, I think I am holding on to a lot of water weight. I drank a lot of alcohol this week and not so much water. Hoping that it all flushes away this week.

Note To Self

Don't be too rough on yourself if you do gain weight. I do have to take into account that I am building muscle and some of that weight gain can be from the muscle gain. Those numbers that you see on the scale can really make or break your day - but the reality of it is that we should measure everything by the way we feel. In my case I am feeling sluggish and not motivated by what I ate this week and I really need to make sure that I am feeling good so that I can do good for my own body. I'm starting to feel a little obsessive about my weight - don't worry I am not going down to the unhealthy way of eating. To those who I joke with about being anorexic and bulimic - it's only a joke.

Well it's time to re-focus and stop looking at what happened this week as a bad thing. What happened...happened and it's a re-motivating me to make sure I am doing what's right for my body. I know I can reach my goal and maintain it. Sometimes you just have a speedbump to overcome. C'est La Vie...time to move on.

Week 17 Facts
Starting Weight after Week 16: 191.7 lbs
Week 17 Weigh In: 197.7 lbs
Week 17 Weight GAIN: +6.0 lbs

Total Journey Profile So Far
Starting Weight on 1/17/11: 237 lbs
Weigh in on 05/15/11: 197.7 lbs
Total Weight Loss So Far: 39.3 lbs (went up 6 lbs this week)

July 1, 2011 Goal Progress
Goal Weight: 165 lbs
Current Weight: 197.7 lbs
Number of Pounds to Goal: -32.7 lbs (very discouraging because I should only have about 20 lbs to lose by now...but know I will get there).
Number of Weeks to Goal: 6 weeks
Pounds per week to reach goal: -5.45 lbs (It should be totally less than this if I just did not gain the weight...c'est la vie)

Thanks for listening to my ramblings! Let me know how I can support you all!

-Percy

Week 15 Roundup: So Close Yet So Far

2011-05-02T16:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, May 1, 2011 was my goal date for reaching my initial weight loss goal of 175 lbs. from 237 lbs. It was an aspirational goal that I though I could achieve...trust me I tried my very best. Don't get me wrong, I am not at all disappointed that I came short in meeting this marker for myself. I am VERY proud of my achievements and I came within 17 pounds of reaching my goal! I have to say...in the last three and a half months I have totally done a 360 on my health which is an achievement on its own. I have made a lifestyle change for the better, that includes conscious eating choices and daily exercise!

Where do I go from here? Today I set up my next goal...to lose the 27 pounds to reach my ultimate goal of 165 by July 1, 2011...which equate to about 3.375lbs per week for 8 weeks. Totally doable if I work harder at making sure I am making the best choices for me without denying myself of anything. I am still going to stick to my 2500 calorie per day or less eating goal and continuing my daily workouts and maybe increasing the intensity more of those workouts.

In this next part of my journey, I also have to take into consideration that I am gaining muscle mass from my workouts which adds weight, so I am not sure how close I can come to my goal of 165 but hoping I come pretty darn close. If I can flatten the gut more and see more defined muscle in this next few months I will totally be happy with the outcome even if I don't see 165 on the scale at the end of it. I am thinking shorts and no shirt for me this summer if I can feel confident in the way my body looks!

What Are Goals?

What I've realized in this journey from Flab to Fab is that without a goal, you don't have anything to reach for so there's no incentive to push yourself towards that finish line. I think it's important to set goals for every aspect of your life because it helps you focus on what you need to achieve and the process that you have to take to get to that final goal.

As I've stated before, for most people that's going through any life altering journey...you have to give yourself something to look forward to at the end of that tunnel, otherwise the tunnel stays dark and you'll just get bored with the entire process. But if you can see results, even the most minuscule of changes, you will be motivated to keep reach and complete the goal you have set for yourself. It's like the little engine that could - just keep telling yourself, "I Think I Can I Think I Can" when it gets hard and the next thing you know you will be there.

Week 15 Facts
Starting Weight after Week 14: 194.2 lbs
Week 15 Weigh In: 192.0 lbs
Week 15 Weight Loss: -2.2 lbs

Total Journey Profile So Far
Starting Weight on 1/17/11: 237 lbs
Weigh in on 05/01/11: 192.0 lbs
Total Weight Loss So Far: 45.0 lbs

May 1, 2011 Goal Progress
Initial Goal Weight: 175 lbs
Current Weight: 192.0 lbs
Number of Pounds to Goal: -17.0 lbs (I was short but still happy about the result)

New Goal
New Goal Weight: 165 lbs (my desired weight)
Goal Date: July 1, 2011
Number of Weeks Left: 8 week
Average Weight Lose per Week to Reach Goal Weight: -3.375 lbs per week.

Week 14 Roundup: It Takes Time to Create a Masterpiece

2011-04-27T12:04:00.000-07:00

It takes time to create a masterpiece, it even took Michelangelo 3-years to complete David - the ultimate sculpture representing the male figure, so surely those of us working on sculpting our own bodies can't expect miracles! I, like many others, thought that if I work out and eat right my body would transform miraculously to the likes of sculpted David...NOT!

It takes a lot of work and a lot of dedication. Don't get me wrong, I am happy with how I am progressing towards that Christopher Meloni/Daniel Craig body...but trust me I HAVE A LONG WAY TO GO. A trainer told me that the first place we gain weight (in my case the mid section) is the last place we will lose the weight. HMPH! I just wish that my love handles and stomach pouch (use to be a hefty bag) would just dissolve away! I work out hard and I still can't lose that mid section flat tire, but I am also not being realistic - considering I've been working out only for 3 months. I know...what was I expecting...this ain't no infomercial!

I was reading an article the other day that totally shook up my work out routine. I was always told to start with 30 minutes of cardio and end with weights...well it's all wrong. According to this article - for the most effective workout - you start with weights first and end with cardio! I'm sure others will argue this point but I have to tell you I did feel like a got a better weight and cardio session yesterday by trying out this method. Is there a right and wrong way to work out though? Some will say cardio before weights, others will say cardio on one day - weights on another, but in theory, I think, if you are doing something positive for your body - it's probably a good thing. This new method seems to work for me.

Chiseling Out My Body

Throughout my journey from Flab to Fab I have found that keeping up with your body is a job on its own. Working out and maintaining it is just part of the overall picture. It's part of me now, as the artist of my own body, in helping to chisel out the body I was meant to have (what ever that final product may be). One thing we dismiss on this journey is our inner wellness and our mental ability to love YOU at every stage of our life - regardless of our outward appearance. Truly, both have to work hand in hand, but inner acceptance has to come first - otherwise no matter how much work you do on your outward appearance - YOU WILL NEVER BE SATISFIED. I have always found myself to be a confident and beautiful individual...but for me personally, I am ready to walk on the beach with my improved body, knowing that regardless if I was still 240 lbs or not, that no one could ever take my inner beauty and confidence away. I made the changes necessary to my outward appearance so that it will compliment my inner self - not the other way around.

Last night on Glee (Born this Way Episode), I was taken by the song Unpretty by TLC (one of my favorite songs of all time). The words resonated with me, again, and really made me look at myself and how I perceive ME. When it comes down to it, no one can make you feel "unpretty" only you can do that. It's all about finding the confidence to accept who you are as a person. I know it's hard when our images of beautiful and perfection are the 15 and 16 year old models with perfect physiques in magazines, but in reality, as adults, we know those images do not represent who we are as individuals or even the majority of the population. We have to accept who we are and what we look like. If we aren't happy with our outer appearance, we can make changes...but those changes can't happen or satisfy until we accept our inner selves and beauty first. Lastly, if you are with a person who makes you feel "unpretty" about yourself - maybe it's time to look at that relationship and move on - because no one is worth all that pain. REMEMBER...YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL, in your own individual way, no matter what others may think or what you may look like. I find it funny that no matter how many people you talk to - no one is truly happy with the way they look, they will always find a something they don't like about themselves (which by the way was the message in the Glee episode last night). However, once you accept you for you - no one can ever take that away.

Week 14 Facts
Starting Weight after Week 13: 195.4 lbs
Week 14 Weigh In: 194.2 lbs
Week 14 Weight Loss: -1.2 lbs

Total Journey Profile So Far
Starting Weight on 1/17/11: 237 lbs
Weigh in on 04/24/11: 194.2 lbs
Total Weight Loss So Far: 42.8 lbs

Goal Progress
Initial Goal Weight: 175 lbs
Current Weight: 194.2 lbs
Number of Pounds to Goal: -19.2 lbs
Goal Date: May 1, 2011
Number of Weeks Left: 1 week
Average Weight Lose per Week to Reach Goal Weight: -19.2 lbs per week (regardless if I met this initial goal or not I am still very proud of myself and my new goal will be set next week. 42.8 lbs in 14 weeks is an incredible accomplishment on this initial phase).

Thank you again for following my ramblings! I am so very proud of those of you who have started your own journey from Flab to Fab and support you in any way I can. Congratulations on your accomplishments so far!

-Percy

Week 13 Roundup: Light at the End of the Tunnel?

2011-04-19T14:38:00.000-07:00

Is that a light I see at the end of the tunnel? Probably so, but I know I still have another tunnel to conquer as I make my way towards my initial goal of 175 and my ultimate goal of 165. However, even after that, I have the task of maintaining my new and healthy body...I don't want it to go back to where I was before. I feel awesome and I love the compliments that I have been receiving lately.

I know I have lost weight and my body has transformed quite drastically from where I was just 3 months ago. THREE MONTHS and I've dropped over 40 lbs and changed my lifestyle by including exercise to it on a daily basis. Who knew at this point in my life that I would be at concerned about my well-being and the way that I look. What really makes me feel great is when people tell me how much younger I look.

I never thought I looked my age...always thought I looked younger, though a cousin of mine would say I look like a Filipino father who has settled to being middle age. Middle AGE...what??? I never looked my age and definitely never thought of myself as being middle aged. So...I guess I am happy that people say I look much younger than I did and that I can pass in being in my mid 30s....that's okay as long as someone does not think I look like I am in my middle ages. Thanks everyone for making me feel good about the way I look. Here's my face transformation in just three months, tell me what you think - did I look like I was in my middle ages and do I look younger than 42? I am actually very happy to have my angular face again!

Left to Right: January 17, 2011, Feb, 2011, Mar 2011 and April 2011

Commitment Cannot Be Forced or Required

What I have learned in this journey, so far, is that no one can make you commit to doing something...you can only do it for yourself. There's no way that I could have done this on my own unless I was totally ready to make that transformation myself. Regardless of how I might tell myself I am ready, you are never ready until you are ready! This a-ha moment will come when you least expect it and you will do everything in your power to make it happen. Weight loss takes absolute commitment - commitment without excuses! Regardless of the many different aspects one might take or the amount of money that you spend to lose the weight, it will always lead to failure unless you are good and ready to truly commit and take necessary steps to do it for yourself. I was truly ready to make that commitment and I am still committed. It's not an easy journey but for me it's been rewarding and truly a life changer.

I have had several friends take this journey with me, some have succeeded and others have given up and I respect both for their choices. But...it proves my point that you have to be truly committed to make any changes in your life. The ones who succeeded were ready to take ownership of their own body and make the change for themselves...not for others...regardless of how others may feel. Those who tried but couldn't stick to a plan, made excuses and were truly not ready to commit whole heatedly to a change. Blaming others as a reason not to stick to something is a sign that you YOURSELF were not ready to take that journey. Don't get me wrong, I support all my friends on their individual journey, but know that those who struggled and couldn't finish truly weren't ready for it at this point of their lives - their time is still on the horizon. Trust me I think these people are awesome individuals and they know I love them...and when you are ready you will know and I will be there for you 100% as I am today! Any drastic change to the way we live has to be made by oneself it cannot be forced or required - it can only come from within and that starts with the words, "I AM READY TO MAKE THIS CHANGE FOR ME!"

Week 13 Facts
Starting Weight after Week 12: 197.8 lbs
Week 13 Weigh In: 195.4 lbs
Week 13 Weight Loss: -2.4 lbs

Total Journey Profile So Far
Starting Weight on 1/17/11: 237 lbs
Weigh in on 04/17/11: 195.4 lbs
Total Weight Loss So Far: 41.6 lbs

Goal Progress
Initial Goal Weight: 175 lbs
Current Weight: 195.4 lbs
Number of Pounds to Goal: -20.4 lbs
Goal Date: May 1, 2011
Number of Weeks Left: 2 weeks
Average Weight Lose per Week to Reach Goal Weight: -10.2 lbs per week (obviously I will probably not meet this initial goal but hoping I come close to it by 8-10 lbs).

Week 12 Roundup: The Elusive 40

2011-04-11T14:01:00.000-07:00

I can't even believe that I have been on my journey from Flab to Fab for 12 weeks! It's amazing to think back that only 3-months ago...I committed to trying the 4-Week Chemical Balance Diet in hopes that it will be the jumping board for this transformation. I am almost down 40 pounds - but that magical FOUR OH is just really hard to get too and I still have another 20 to lose after that to reach my goal weight of 175. I ain't complaining at the progress I have made so far! I was hoping to be under the 40 lbs loss marker by now, but like I said...I ain't complaining about what I have achieved!

Even though my body is starting to transform and my weight has definitely dropped. I think making the right food choices always seem to be a problem. I have noticed that I have been eating more carbs (rice, bread, tortillas, etc) by choice of course and I have also felt a little more sluggish. I am not sure it has to do with it or not, but none the less...I have recommitted to eliminate "bad carbs" from my diet for the next three weeks...again. Hopefully that will help to get me below the 40 lbs loss marker (so I have like 0.8 lbs left) and also get me towards my initial goal of 175.

I have no doubt that I could still possibly reach my initial 175 goal by May 1, but that would mean at least a weight loss of 6 pounds weekly for the next three weeks! At any rate - it is still my goal and if I reach it - FABULOUS, if I come close to it - FABULOUS, and if I don't come close to it, but know I did what I could to get there healthy - still FABULOUS. It's all a process and a change in my lifestyle and I am very happy that I made positive changes to it.

View Of Ones Self

Since I've been on my "health trip," I am constantly observing my body, make mental notes of what needs to change and imagining what I would look like with my ideal body. I think it's part of the fascination - like discovering part of your body that you never knew existed - and in my case it has been covered in fat and have not been seen in years! My problem area definitely lies in my mid section and I have mentioned that even at my thinnest, I've always had the love handles.

So today, with our local Borders closing yet another store, I decided to buy The Abs Diet Book by David Zinczenko in hopes that it helps me lose my belly fat! It promises to hit this area of my waist. I am working out religiously and even though I have seen shrinkage in that area - it still needs a log of HELP! I want to have that sculpted mid section with out the flat tires hinging on the sides. Therefore, I am making a six-week commitment to try out this next phase (I'm starting this next phase on Monday 4/18/11) - which hopefully gets me down to my ideal weight of 160-165 lbs. Yet another new start for my transformation from Flab to Fab! We shall see the outcome! I want to be in my best body ever, come summer, so I can take off my shirt and be happy with the way I look on the outside!

Week 12 Facts
Starting Weight after Week 11: 198.4 lbs
Week 12 Weigh In: 197.8 lbs
Week 12 Weight Loss: -0.6 lbs (the lowest weight loss to day - except for the week that I gained)

Total Journey Profile So Far
Starting Weight on 1/17/11: 237 lbs
Weigh in on 04/10/11: 197.8 lbs
Total Weight Loss So Far: 39.2 lbs

Goal Progress
Goal Weight: 175 lbs
Current Weight: 197.8 lbs
Number of Pounds to Goal: -22.8 lbs
Goal Date: May 1, 2011
Number of Weeks Left: 3 weeks
Average Weight Lose per Week to Reach Goal Weight: -7.6 lbs per week

Well I am going to keep on doing what I am doing with some modifications to help me remove my belly fat. If anyone has any other ideas or tips to help me out in the mid section area - I WOULD LOVE THE ADVICE! On another note - I bought my first pair of size 34 Levi's this weekend (511 skinny jeans at that). I am amazed by the amount of people who are taking a similar journey and I am happy that I could be of support to you all. Thank you for your kind words - let me know how I can support you all!

-Percy

Week 10 and 11 Roundup: Weight Loss On Vacation

2011-04-04T12:37:00.000-07:00

I was not able to post my stats for Week 10 as I left on vacation two days before my weigh in...and conveniently there was no scale where I was staying. I will guess that I might have lost 2 or 3 pounds that week which would have put me in the 196-197 pound range, but that's all speculation and it's not official, so I won't even put it out there as a fact. For Week 10 on my board where I keep track of my weekly weight - I simply put "ON VACATION!"

Now, for week 11, the week I was officially on vacation. I actually ate pretty crappy and not within my 1500-2000 calories per day. I ate breakfast most everyday and I absolutely ate carbs and dessert! Disneyland is not at all the place to go if you are on a diet nor is vacationing in Tahoe, but in retrospect I would have done far worst if I was not so conscious of my eating habits. I would have eaten and eaten like there was no tomorrow. I was somewhat restrained.

I did however obsess that I was not getting enough exercise...though...I did do a lot of walking at Disneyland and also did do some walking and jogging in Tahoe. I trekked up hills on our sledding day...so I did get worked out, just not in the gym setting that I am use too. I am actually looking forward to getting back in the gym today and to my routine!

At any rate...I didn't lose a whole lot of weight during vacation, but I did lose weight! 1.4 lbs loss is still a loss and that makes me feel good and I continue to be under 200lbs. This week is amping it up to the next level in exercise and weight lose. I have less than a month to lose the last 20ish lbs to reach my 175 goal as of May 1st. THE PRESSURE!

What I Learned on Vacation
What I learned on this vacation is that I can control myself and my eating habits. What I learned so far on my journey from Flab to Fab is that no matter where you are...being happy in your body is motivation enough to make you do everything you can to not go back to that state of flabbiness! Even small amounts of exercise equate to something good for your body. Indulging in food is also not a bad thing - over indulging is!

It was great for my family in the Bay Area to see me in my new form of healthiness. They were really shocked at how different I look and how much younger I look also! Well let me tell you. I feel much younger and glad that I look it too!

Week 11 Facts
Starting Weight after Week 9: 199.8 lbs
Week 11 Weigh In: 198.4 lbs
Week 11 Weight Loss: -1.4 lbs

Total Journey Profile So Far
Starting Weight on 1/17/11: 237 lbs
Weigh in on 4/4/11: 198.4 lbs
Total Weight Loss So Far: 38.6 lbs

Goal Progress
Goal Weight: 175 lbs
Current Weight: 198.4 lbs
Number of Pounds to Goal: -23.4 lbs
Goal Date: May 1, 2011
Number of Weeks Left: 4 weeks
Average Weight Lose per Week to Reach Goal Weight: -5.85 lbs per week

I want to thank all the people who have supported me through this journey. To my family and friends who are making the same journey that I am...I am very proud of you all on your progress so far! Let me know how I can support you!

-Percy

Week 9 Round Up: Forty-Two and Fabulous

2011-03-20T12:04:00.000-07:00

Not a photo of my cake. Photo by Oakraidr on Flickr

I started Week 9 of my road from Flabulous to Fabulous with my 42nd Birthday! Yes 42 and Fabulous! I celebrated with family and friends at one of my favorite local restaurants, El Paseo. I ate my favorite dishes in moderation, drank margaritas, and even ate a piece of my chocolate/chocolate birthday cake from Jeannines! It was definitely a great way to start my 43rd year!

Another great marker for this year of fabulous transformations was the follow-up visit to my doctor. As many of you know, back in December 2010 I had my annual physical and it didn't go very well. My doctor said that I would have to go on medication because my cholesterol level was high, my triglycerides where at extremely elevated levels, and my hemoglobin A1C indicated that I was at an increased risk for diabetes - pre diabetic. I told him I didn't want to go on medication and asked if there was anything I could do. He said LOSE WEIGHT. I said I would and he gave me three months to get it together.

Well...at my follow up with him, he was totally shocked to see that I had dropped over 35lbs! He was very excited and pleased. Then he sat down and said, "Now your blood work news!" He told me that I don't have to worry about going on medication anymore! My cholesterol level dropped from 242 to 171 (normal is under 200), my triglycerides went from 204 to 86 (normal is under 150), and my hemoglobin A1C is now at 5.1 (normal is under 5.7). This was definitely the best birthday present news I received and also the best birthday gift I could have given myself! He said my blood pressure was like a teenagers! Very exciting news. I told him I still had a ways to go to get to my goal weight...but he said if I maintained where I am right now he would be happy with that too! I told him I was determined to get my BMI level to where it should be for my height! I was definitely proud of myself - because I did it on my own!

The New Normal

So healthy living is the "new normal" in my own personal life. I have been very conscious of what I eat and what I need to do to keep on track. It's actually become a part of my life. Things that I thought I would miss when I started this journey have not been an issue. I have totally cut out soda from my diet but I still indulge in ice cream and sweets - but on a totally different level. Bite size indulgences seem to curve my cravings for sweets. I have reintroduced carbs into my diet in moderation and it's no longer a big factor for me to want it or crave it. I even had Ross substitute the rice in our shared burrito last night with extra veggies and for lunch I had Japanese Teriyaki but had extra veggies instead of rice as well.

Working out has become part of my daily routine. It really helps clear my mind whole keeping me fit. I really look forward to my workouts on a daily basis. I don't think of it as a chore or something to do...I see it as an extension of my daily life - right up there with eating and sleeping. I actually feel guilty if I don't do something for my body on a daily basis, either at home or the gym, it's like something missing from my day if it's not done.

I'm making choices that are not only saving my life but prolonging it at the same time. It's also giving me the body and the look that I admire in so many people. I know I still have a long way from actually having my "goal look and body" but it's a start and it's something I am proud that I am doing. I believe that the biggest factor to being successful in my journey from Flab to Fab is my personal commitment. I have fully committed to make this change in my life for good - which is why it's my "new normal."

Week 9 Facts
Starting Weight after Week 8: 202.8 lbs
Week 9 Weigh In: 199.8 lbs
Week 9 Weight Loss: -3.0 lbs

Total Journey Profile So Far
Starting Weight on 1/17/11: 237 lbs
Weigh in on 3/20/11: 199.8 lbs
Total Weight Loss So Far: 37.2 lbs

Goal Progress
Goal Weight: 175 lbs
Current Weight: 199.8 lbs
Number of Pounds to Goal: -24.8 lbs
Goal Date: May 1, 2011
Number of Weeks Left: 6 weeks
Average Weight Lose per Week to Reach Goal Weight: -4.1 lbs per week

I am looking forward to the weeks to come and in reaching my "initial goal weight" that I set on January 17, 2011! I appreciate all your support and for indulging in my ramblings! Let me know how I can support you!

-Percy

Two Month Photo Update: The Change from 1/17/11 to 3/20/11

2011-03-20T09:27:00.000-07:00

Here's a photo update of me as of 3/20/11 at 199.8 Lbs. The picture on 2/19/11 actually looks skinnier than my photo now, but I think that has to do with the sweater I was wearing. In the 1st picture I was wearing size 40 waist pants and a very tight XL shirt, the middle photo I was wearing size 38/36, the last photo I am fitting into size 34s but still more comfortable in size 36s and can fit into some L size shirts. You can't really tell from this picture, but my face is a lot more angular than round and I can finally wear sunglasses without them looking small on my "siopao" face (referring to the big round pork buns I loved to eat as a kid and now too).

I'm very proud of myself to say the least. I have not been under 200 in a long time. I still have a LONG LONG way to go to hit my goal of 175 by May 1. It's hard to not see the chubby me when I look at myself. I still see the 237 lbs Percy, but I know I've come a long way...BABY!

Week 8 Round Up: Changing Your Own Course

2011-03-17T14:37:00.000-07:00

Last week, I had tons of emotional peaks and valleys and I really looked at why I wanted to change the course of my health. Was it really worth it to lose this weight, and be healthy, only to sacrifice other aspects of my life? Not that eating is the issue here...actually the food part and choosing better meals to eat has been quite easy. The harder part is taking a part of the day that I usually spend with my family and focus that portion of it towards working out...which in most cases will take anywhere from one to two hours in the evening.

Changing the course of my wellness was truly necessary! Not only for my son and husband, but also also for me. I can finally see a healthier and happier person that is proving to others that if you take care of your body...you body will take care of you. Plus I have so much energy now and I feel so much better physically and at 42 I look much younger than I did when I had the extra pounds. Seriously I think I can pass for my early 30s!

I have to say that I am a little obsessed with my work out routines. I've have given up the P90X for now because I am finding the traditional cardio and weights at the gym to be more fulfilling for me at the moment. The 1-2 hour "self time" seems to be helping me relieve stress and anxiety as well. However, as my partner has stated it has taken time away from my family and I told him that he just needs to be a little more patient so that I can reach my goal weight. Once I've reached that goal, I can help to better come up with a routine that will satisfy everyone involved. I fear that if I don't commit to working out daily, right now, I may go back to the old routine of being stationary and not active at all.

The Good old YMCA

Who knew that I would actually be going to the YMCA on a daily basis? I actually enjoy it more than the 24-hour gyms that seem to have popped up everywhere. Part of my like and motivation is that I don't have to deal with the stand and pose muscle folks there and I don't feel intimidated that I'm still pretty flabby. There's a whole mix of young and old, and all body types. It just feels very comfortable. Plus, they have a great kids program for my son and he enjoys being there as well! The membership price is also quite attractive!

I have come up with a routine for the week. Monday, Wednesdays, and Fridays I do 30-minutes of cardio on the elliptical machine followed by weights for my upper body and my abdominal region. Tuesday, Thursdays, and Saturdays I do 30 minutes of cardio on the stationary bike and weights for my lower body. Sundays I tend to just do some sit ups and spend time in the pool with my son. It's a good routine. If anyone has any ideas on how I can maximize my weight training and developing my body - especially my upper body and abdominal region better...I WOULD LOVE YOUR INPUT!

When I use to go to the gym, back like 20-years ago - I really never did weights or the cardio machines. I mostly went for the aerobic classes. Now that has totally flipped. I realize and I have been told that I should add cardio classes to my routine as well as some stretching and yoga. I especially need the stretching and yoga as I hear both helps to tone the body faster. So it's interesting that I am actually sitting and doing weights and that my commitment to it has lasted this long.

I already have great news to share for this week - but will report on my Week 9 Round Up next week. This will include reports on:

My 42nd Birthday
Follow up with my doctor - which is the reason I started this wellness program
My plans for Spring Break

Week 8 Facts
Starting Weight after Week 7: 205.4 lbs
Week 8 Weigh In: 202.8 lbs
Week 8 Weight Loss: -2.6 lbs

Total Journey Profile So Far
Starting Weight on 1/17/11: 237 lbs
Weigh in on 3/13/11: 202.8 lbs
Total Weight Loss So Far: 34.2 lbs

Goal Progress
Goal Weight: 175 lbs
Current Weight: 202.8 lbs
Number of Pounds to Goal: -27.8 lbs
Goal Date: May 1, 2011
Number of Weeks Left: 7 weeks
Average Weight Lose per Week to Reach Goal Weight: -3.9 lbs per week

Thanks again for listening to my ramblings. Hope you are all doing well! Let me know how I can be of support.

-Percy

Week 7 Round Up: Back on Track

2011-03-07T13:50:00.000-08:00

This dieting and watching what you eat stuff is a full time job! Especially for someone in their very early 40s. You really have to watch what you put in your mouth and think about what's best for your body at the time but will satisfy your food needs as well. It's enough to drive anyone crazy!

Last week, I gained weight after failing to be conscious of what I was eating. I went up 3 lbs in a week...I know not a big deal, but if I didn't nip it in the bud, the 3 pounds would have continued to increase and I'd end up back where I started seven weeks ago...maybe even more! This week I watched what I ate, but I still feel like I've gained rather than lost. It could be because I am another pant size down and the 36 waist jeans I'm wearing today still feels a little snug, but at least I didn't have to struggle to close them.

Even though I'm back on track, I feel like I've gained some weight today. Maybe it's all psychological or maybe because my Burberry shirt is feeling a little tight, but it's driving me somewhat crazy. Now I'm obsessing and telling myself, maybe the breakfast I had on Saturday was a bad choice or the gnocchi I had with my fish was just too much for me to eat right now. IT'S FREAKIN' CRAZY! Being asked if I was holding in my stomach was not what I needed to hear today, but I can see why they would think that...especially knowing me with a huge belly.

Is it possible that FAT shifts in your body or something like that when you lose weight? I mean seriously...does fat shift to make up for the loss of it in your body? Now I wouldn't mind if it traveled to my ass or someplace that I need a little padding, but it's a little discouraging that it may have shifted into my mid section again (not that it's left entirely - there's a lot more to lose in that section)! Tell me if I'm crazy! That's what I am fighting to lose - MY MID SECTION! Maybe it's all in my head and maybe I just feeling a little bloated! Maybe these thoughts, feelings, and physical insecurities are all part of the weight loss process. Regardless of what it is, there's just a slight feeling of discomfort for me today.

LEARNING TO STAY ON TRACK

I am learning that to stay on track I have to be the captain of my own ship/body! I can't blame anyone else for the choices that I make - because I'm the only one that can make those choices for me. It's hard to realize that CONSCIOUS choices aren't always the RIGHT choices and the RIGHT choices aren't always the BEST choice for you at that moment. There has to be some give and take, but you have to learn how to 1) take ownership of the choice your make; 2) Allow yourself to indulge every now and than; and 3) Forgive yourself and not beat yourself up for doing something you needed to do for your own body. IT'S ALL ABOUT TAKING OWNERSHIP.

I've learned in the past week that when I make a choice to indulge - I have to make up for it by working out a little longer or cutting back a little bit on the next meal. I also learned that I can say YES or NO and I have the right to say either with the situation at hand. Living an active lifestyle is something you have to commit to and you have to work at everyday...but you have to learn not to overshadow all the other goings on in your life as well. Staying on track is about finding the balance between sanity and compulsion.

Week 7 Facts
Starting Weight after Week 6: 210.4 lbs
Week 7 Weigh In: 205.4 lbs
Week 7 Weight Loss: -5.0 lbs

Total Journey Profile So Far
Starting Weight on 1/17/11: 237 lbs
Weigh in on 3/6/11: 205.4 lbs
Total Weight Loss So Far: 32 lbs

Goal Progress
Goal Weight: 175 lbs
Current Weight: 205.4 lbs
Number of Pounds to Goal: -30.4 lbs
Goal Date: May 1, 2011
Number of Weeks Left: 8 weeks
Average Weight Lose per Week to Reach Goal Weight: -3.8 lbs per week

Thanks again for listening to my crazy ramblings and for sticking with me on my journey from FLABulous to FABulous!

-Percy

One Month Photo Update: The Change from 1/17/11 to 2/19/11

2011-03-04T11:09:00.000-08:00

Here's an updated photo of me. How I looked when I started this journey on 1/17/11 and an updated photo taken of me on 2/19/11. I am pretty proud of myself to say the least.

This photo is reminding me of a Jenny Craig or Weight Watchers Commercial! Move over Jennifer Hudson and Carrie Fisher! LOL

Week 6 Round Up: Up Up and Away

2011-03-04T10:56:00.000-08:00

Let me tell you, this week was a very disappointing weigh in. After eating like crap for a week and not exercising as I should, my weight loss turned into weight gain. Maybe that is why I haven't blogged about it until now. Just to let it go and get back on track.

Gaining weight after you lost so much is pretty devastating. You start to think that maybe you can never eat normally again. In reality, you can eat what you like as long as you make conscious choices and not to eat more than you share of the bad stuff. The choices you make have consequences to your efforts. The lack of workout was also a factor in my weight gain this week.

As Oprah would say, this was my "A-ha" week. Realizing that at almost 42 years old, I can't eat like the teens and 20 something's, who devour all they want, without gaining an ounce of weight. At this age I have to really work at my figure...that takes a lot of effort and some days you just want to say, "TO HELL WITH IT!"

With that said, I really don't want it to go downhill from here. I want to keep on keeping on - and make my way up the hill even though at times I know it will be difficult. I don't want the pounds to creep back up adding those numbers back into my life. Seeing that scale move, the opposite direction from where you want to go, is harsh, but at the same time, I can't beat myself up over it. It is what it is and now I have to own up to the fact that there is no one to blame except for myself.

The Harsh Truth

Eating fast food because it's convenient is a sorry excuse. Even though restaurants have started posting the calories of the meals you are actually eating, it's probably safe to say that the preservatives and all the other stuff they put in it is probably not good for your body. The sodium content alone would probably kill you. Justifying the calorie counts at McDonald's or Taco Bell is a cop out.
Dieting and working out goes hand in hand. Really, you can accomplish your goals and stay healthy without having some sort of workout regimen - even if it means just walking for 30 minutes a day to increase your heart rate. Trust me - it's not as if I worked out for the most of my life - I HAVEN'T, but I have learned that sweat is good! So...if sweaty sex is the only exercise you get - at least you are sweating out the bad stuff and you are getting something good at the same time.
Water. DRINK WATER! This coming from a person who believed that I got more than my water needs from Diet Coke or Diet Pepsi. I have totally cut out sodas out of my life and keep my refrigerator stocked with bottled water. I can't believe how water alone can change the dynamics of your health and the stuff that it flushes away. Plus, it's good replenishment for your body.
There no one or anything you can blame when things go South but yourself. You are in control of reaching your own goal - so stop blaming others or situations that hinder you from reaching it and look to yourself. Remember you set your own goals and there is no one but you who can encourage you to go for it or to reach it. Supporters are all good, but your biggest cheerleader is YOU! So go for it!

The weight gain, this week, was a good thing for me. It made me realize that I am the one in control of my own choices and the one person that can hinder me from reaching my goals. So, it's safe to say that it was a wake up call and I adjusted my eating habit this week, as well as, dedicated myself to work out at least 5 days a week. So, we move forward, leave the past in the past and hope that future efforts lead to my own personal goal!

Week 6 Facts
Starting Weight after Week 5: 207.2 lbs
Week 6 Weigh In: 210.4 lbs
Week 6 Weight Loss: +3.2 lbs - yes this week was a gain and reverted close to my Week 4 weight.

Total Journey Profile So Far
Starting Weight on 1/17/11: 237 lbs
Weigh in on 2/27/11: 210.4 lbs
Total Weight Loss So Far: 26.6 lbs

Goal Progress
Goal Weight: 175 lbs
Current Weight: 210.4 lbs
Number of Pounds to Goal: -35.4 lbs
Goal Date: May 1, 2011
Number of Weeks Left: 9 weeks
Average Weight Lose per Week to Reach Goal Weight: -3 lbs per week

Thanks again for listening to my ramblings. Looking forward to see how well I succeeded towards my goal this week for Week 7. Let me know how I can support you!

-Percy

Week Five Roundup: Walking the Fine Line

2011-02-22T16:37:00.000-08:00

Figuring out what to eat, when you are doing it on your own, is really hard. There truly is a fine line between FAB and FLAB and making that walk is extremely difficult at times. It's very easy to fall back in to a pattern of eating EVERYTHING that is wrong for you and to go back to the attitude of "it can wait until tomorrow." I have to confess that has entered back into my life this weekend...and my excuses were just that...AN EXCUSE!

Here's my confession - the things I ate that were wrong and the excuse I used to dismiss them:

Thursday: Burger King Whopper for Dinner. Excuse: I worked out for an hour I deserve it.
Friday: McDonald's Cheeseburger: Excuse: I'm in a rush, I have nowhere to stop to get dinner, and I am already late in picking up these linens.
Saturday: A big piece of wedding cake for dinner: Excuse: I had nothing to eat for dinner and this was the only thing left to eat.
Monday: McDonald's Cheeseburger for lunch with a grilled chicken wrap. Excuse: I have to stop to get Anthony something to eat and I really don't have time to stop and get something for me somewhere else.

It's not like I fell off the bandwagon altogether, but I did make food choices that were probably not the best for me this last weekend. I was conscious of it and I also made excuses for it, and I know if I continue on that pattern - those excuses will come more frequently and I will end up back at the sorry state of FLAB.

So, with guilt came working out, which I guess is a good thing. I can totally see how people can yo-yo diet quite easily. Losing weight, rewarding yourself with bad stuff, making excuses, and than dieting again - because if I lost weight before I can do it again. The madness can't ever stop because you know you can always start over, but the fact is YOU WILL ALWAYS be starting over...unless you actually stop the madness yourself. That is so Susan Powter of me.

Eating things you like is not a bad thing; it's the excuses that you make that are. My theory is...when you start making excuses, while reaching for that second or third or fourth bowl of ice cream, cookie or whatever, you justify it by saying, "well...I'll make it up tomorrow" or "I'll just work it off tomorrow." Than tomorrow comes and you make additional excuses to make up for what you didn't do today that you said you would do yesterday. It becomes a vicious cycle of excuses over empowerment. I think it's healthier to just say, "So...I had a bowl of ice cream...now I can move on!" But, I think, you have to you move on without guilt or shame...and you have to be in control of the situation.

WHAT I HAVE TO REMEMBER IN MY PERSONAL JOURNEY

I am making healthier eating choices (even with things I love) because I want to feel good.
I have control of what I eat and what I do...not visa versa.
I don't want to go on medication to control things that I have control over.
My family is important to me and my health will assure that I am around a lot longer.
I want to wear clothes I love.
I want to look and feel the best I ever have!
I want to be HEALTHY and a HOTTIE!

With that said, I did my usual Sunday morning weigh in and I tipped the scale at 207.2 lbs. Just shy of 30lbs lost since 1/17/11. Even with eating the bad things, I lost weight...which shocked the hell out of me, because I thought for sure I gained back a few of the pounds I lost. I attribute part of the success to the fact that I was conscious of what I was eating and made adjustments to make sure that I took care of my body in the right way and I made no excuses to stop me from exercising. It's really helpful that my family and friends are very supportive. It's even more amazing that I motivate myself to work out, even when I would rather be curled up under the covers, watching TV, and eating ice cream.

Someone asked me this week what the secret was to my motivation when I have other things in life that needs to be taken care of. My answer was, "Take care of yourself first because if you aren't around than you can't take care of the other things you need to or want to do." Which at this point in my life I believe is probably the strongest statement I have ever made.

Week 5 Facts
Starting Weight after Week 4: 210.8 lbs
Week 5 Weigh In: 207.2 lbs
Week 5 Weight Loss: 3.6 lbs

Total Journey Profile So Far
Starting Weight on 1/17/11: 237 lbs
Weigh in on 2/13/11: 207.2 lbs
Total Weight Loss So Far: 29.8 lbs

Thank you again for listening to my ramblings! Let me know how I can support you on your journey to health!

-Percy

Day 31: Fear of Eating

2011-02-17T10:45:00.000-08:00

How does one re-enter the true eating world once they are off their diet plan? I have to tell you it's pretty hard! This is my first week on my own...eating like a normal person again and not what's on my Chemical Diet Plan. It's frightening to say the least and trying to choose the best possible choices is hard, but it really makes you think about the choices you are about to put in your mouth.

You all know by now that I have lost 26.2 pounds on the Chemical Diet. Valentine's Day was the first day eating normally again, after weeks of restrictions. I took my son to a favorite local restaurant for dinner, El Paseo Restaurant, and I ordered off the menu for the first time in weeks. I didn't eat any chips or tortillas and I ordered the Bistec con Champinones, A USDA prime rib eye steak grilled with baby mushrooms, grilled vegetables, and served with Pasilla chile potato puree. It was yummy, though I could have done without the mushroom sauce and the puree, which I only took a few small bites. I washed it down with a Pepino (cucumber) Margarita that I have been craving for weeks. It was definitely satisfying, but after the meal, I felt guilty like I was cheating. I don't want to feel guilty about eating...but for some reason I did.

I guess it's normal to feel this way, especially after dedicating myself to losing weight. What I fear the most at this point is gaining the weight back, which I don't want to do! On Wednesday evening, I went to an industry party and I ate everything that came out of the kitchen. Mind you they were hors d'oeuvres portions and I ate in moderation, but again I felt guilty for eating something friend and taking in some...okay all...of the dessert offerings. Plus, I had three tangerine martinis. I may have only eaten 10-12 pieces of bite size offerings but I was conscious enough to know that maybe I should have not eaten some of the things that came out. With food guilt thoughts lingering, I went home and worked out again in fear of gaining weight.

I don't want to live my life in fear of eating, nor do I want to develop a disorder and manic craziness for losing weight. I just want to be able to make right choices, eat in moderation, and work out to live a more comfortable and healthy life. Is feeling guilty about what I am eating crazy? On the other hand, is this new alertness helping me be conscious about what I am putting in my body? Regardless of the fact...I think eating after dieting makes people have buyers remorse - but with food...let's call it eating remorse. It's the GUILT. GUILT! GUILT!! GUILT!!! Maybe I should think of it as positive mental state of awareness rather than something I should be ashamed of.

I don't know what is in store for me in this next phase, of going at it on my own. I am still doing the breakfast plan from my diet and I am still packing my own lunch with healthy choices so I guess I am doing some things right to make sure I continue on the right path. I continue to work out everyday, which also helps me in my continued journey. Even though I have had evenings of indulgence this week, most of the other evenings have been pretty much what I have eaten the last four weeks, which is not a bad thing. It's like my new comfort food I guess. I am truly happy with what I have accomplished and just want to continue on the right path. I thank all my family and friends for their continued support.

Thank you again for listening to my ramblings. Let me know how I can support you on your journey from Flab to Fab!

-Percy