Dude success story... :)

I see a lot of success stories from the ladies. Here is one representing the guys!

Here is a picture of me last October at ~247 pounds.



January 6th, 2012 was the date I started my fitness journey. I was 247 pounds and just finished my holiday vacation. On that day I woke up and decided this is finally the day I do something about my health. At 247 pounds I had trouble with hip pain, high blood pressure, headaches, and low energy. I was always an active “fat guy” but that changed in the past year. I found myself declining invitations to do things with family and friends. I felt “too fat” to do anything physical.

I relieved stress by drinking beers at night and weekends, so that didn't help my stature. I also developed terrible eating habits. I frequented fast food establishments for all three meals. I estimate I ingested 3000 – 5000 calories a day. I took about 1200 milligrams of Ibuprofen a day to relieve my hip pain and headaches.

I realized I was in trouble. I laid awake nights thinking of strategies of how I could combat this problem. I also wondered when I was going to have the “big one” that would decide my fate for me. How messed up is that? A guy in his 30's wondering when the heart attack is coming. I had to change!

January 6th, I created an account n fitnesspal in the morning and starting tracking everything I ate that day. I remember texting my wife after lunch telling her what I was doing. At that moment everything changed for me. I came home from work and spent most evenings researching the best methods of healthy weight loss. I purchased a scale and measuring cups. I found foods at Wegmans (our local grocery chain) and SAMs that where better alternatives. I planned my my meals for the week. This way I can avoid the fast food restaurants.

Work was going to be difficult. I had the group of “lunch friends” that frequented local establishments and they shared in my love for food. I had to break that habit. Instead of going out to eat, I replaced it with walking buddies. We would walk 1 mile to start. We are up 3 miles for a lunch hour. I always bring a healthy lunch or walk to a local Wegmans to purchase a healthy lunch. So not was I only eating less calories at lunch bit I was burning them too! I bought a fitbit to track all my walking. This gadget is very motivating a big key to my success.

I decided after a week that I needed to do more exercise. I bought a treadmill 8 years ago. I probably put 10 miles on it in that time. I broke that baby out and decided this was going to be my new nightly routine. This was going to replace that beer or big bowl of ice-cream. The first two weeks on the treadmill I couldn't walk on the treadmill without holding onto the sides. I just remember thinking why did I do this to myself. It was the most humbling experience I ever experienced and I was alone! Over the next three months or more that treadmill and I logged hundreds of miles. I went from walking with assistance to running like a madman.

In the early summer I was watching TV. I saw an episode of Extreme Makeover – Weight-loss Edition. I saw a man who once weighed over 400 pounds compete in a triathlon. I thought to myself this would be a great to compete in a triathlon and this could keep me focused on fitness throughout the summer. I started swimming laps in the pool, going on 30 mile bike rides, and running. I use Endomondo track all these exercises. I competed in the Rochester Triathlon on August 25, 2012. I completed the triathlon in 1 hour and 42 minutes. My weight on that day was 175 pounds. That is a 72 pound loss. The best part of that day was having my wife, kids, family members, and friends cheering me on.

I lost 72 pounds and now at 15% body fat... I have a wife, three kids, and a high demanding job. I coach lacrosse and soccer teams. If I can do this and find the time, anyone can! This will be a lifelong journey for me. I will continue to use myfitnesspal, fitbit and Endomondo even though I am at my goal weight.

Here is me now...



during the triathlon - 175 pounds



Me and my love!