As I have never been overweight, many individuals feel that I am not qualified to speak about dieting. After all, I have “nothing to lose” in this sense. I weighed 103 pounds at that time at the peak of my condition. I rose up to 163 pounds when I stopped training and yet, I dropped back to 121 pounds when I began my routine again. 

While this is somewhat of a shame, we need to keep in mind that some individuals have just as much difficulty gaining weight as others do when trying to lose a few extra pounds. It is nearly impossible for them to pack on mass without a great deal of trial and tribulation. However, the sweetest of victories are the results of hard work and dedication. The good news is that you do not need to subject yourself to torturous routines in order to look and feel like a pro. 

In truth, the topic of weight loss was never my cup of tea. This perspective began to change when Matt entered into my life back in early 2018. He was a colleague who became my friend. He weighed more than 220 pounds when we first met. While he was slightly shy and introverted, I enjoyed our conversations. Perhaps a month had passed before I informed him that I regularly performed callisthenics at Brixworth Country Park (as well as following a strict diet). He was quite curious and asked me how to lose weight, as none of his previous methods worked. I was enamoured with the fact that I could finally relate my experiences to the world around me (or at least to Matt).

Without applying too much pressure, I asked Matt to join me for two or three initial sessions. Nothing but the basics, as such a routine is exactly what the body needs. I also advised him to eat more frequently in smaller portions as opposed to cutting his caloric intake. This is always great for the metabolism. The remainder was in his hands; advice and suggestions can only go so far. I still informed him that the ultimate factors were dedication, time and patience. Results take months to become visible. So, we began to train together.

After six weeks, I suggested that he cut back on his sugar intake. Note here that I was only referring to sweets as opposed to fats (as highlighted in my other blogs). I then introduced him to the concept of vitamins. He naturally began to feel better but as I saw Matt every day, I did not notice much of a physical change. I advised him to continue working out without my presence and he was more or less conscientious of such responsibilities. After I returned from a brief holiday, the five-month training milestone had already passed. I noticed that he was eating much healthier, that his clothes appeared looser and that his face was noticeably slimmer. Matt was also more confident, gregarious and energetic. 

When we had been training for nearly eight solid months, I asked him what he currently weighed. To my astonishment, he stated that he was currently 189 pounds! Imagine that! He lost a total of 35 pounds in just under eight months simply by exercising hard and eating well. While we can occasionally satisfy our sweet tooth, the fact of the matter is that common sense and dedication will go a long way!

Matt initially wanted to lose weight in order to reach 176 pounds. He now weighs 180 pounds, he performs more cardiovascular activities and he is taking CLA. Considering these results, I am fully confident in stating that I know a thing or two about weight loss.

VJ