The Year in Review

Forgive me if this is posted as a work-in-progress.

This blog began 05.15.2004, for the purpose of chronicling my attempt to lose 100 pounds (a shitload, let me tell you). I currently weight ~225 pounds with a body fat of ~24% (24% via calipers, and ~21% via the Tanita scale). Last year I weighed in the upper 250s low 260s; I'd lost some weight through the summer, but then I gained a girlfriend who cooked well, and, consequently, also gained some weight back. From January until May, I've done some great work that should be recognized. I weighed approximately 270 in Jan (01-03-05) and have subsequently dropped to 225 pounds, some 45 pounds in weight loss, nearly half of my stated 100 pound loss goal. But as importantly, I reduced my body fat from approx. 36% to ~22-24%. I'd like to get it into the single digits. And keep it there. Vanity is part of my motivation (hard to admit but true). Health is the primary consideration.

In May of last year I resolved to reduce my caloric intake from 4,000 calories per day to 2,000 calories per day. My actual intake is probably closer to 2500 calories per day -- but at least I track it now, so I know what it is. Originally, I tried to track it via computer software, but gave up for a blend of old/new technology. I simply write what I eat on a wipe board (divided by day of the weak on the one hand, and rows providing, roughly meal boxes). This method has been quite effective; and when I don't record what I've eaten it shows: My caloric intake goes through the roof!

NOTE: on 05.31.04 I weight 260.5 and had a body fat (tanita) of 36.0%.

On June 26, 2004, I implemented another fantastic wipe board: This board tracks my body weight and body fat. Later I collected this data and input the data into an excel spreadsheet. Additionally, I later purchased a spring load skin caliper device to measure my body fat (theoretically more accurate, though I'm not fully convinced the accuracy is worth the added headache and time commitment of body fat calipers. Surely not worth it for daily measurements).

I also took up indoor rowing this year, which has been really phenomenol. I like it way more than I should and find it's a nice substitute to other aerobic activities. I particularly like to do it while listening to loveline or watching TV -- I also ride my computrainer doing both activities as well -- or I listen to my iPod.

Things are well. . .

k