KLEEN LIVING - A log about Life, Training, and Nutrition.

[sns8778]

Sorry for disappearing on everyone, it just got to be a negative feedback loop. Being too depressed to really do what is needed, then having to explain why I wasn't doing what I needed to do in order to reach my goals was just making me more ashamed that I wasn't doing what was needed. So it was just creating a cycle that kept making me feel worse. It is hard to have the humility as a man to just say this is just too much for me right now. So rather than doing that, I fell into isolating myself.

As someone that has struggled with depression most of my life, and even moreso in the last 5 years, I can definitely relate to what you wrote here so much. I'm like that with so many aspects of life - I'll know I need to do something, be too depressed to do it, then get mad at myself for not doing it which activates the anxiety, then its a crippling combination of depression and anxiety and can't focus on anything or get anything done at all, so the cycle repeats.

I do a lot of volunteer work in my personal life, and a big part of that is with people that have mental health struggles, and you're absolutely right, its hard for a lot of people to be able to admit to others, or even to themselves that sometimes things are just too much and they need help - whether that help is a break, counseling, just being able to open up, or whatever helps.

 

[sns8778]

This has been on my mind a lot lately. 2023 and 2024 I largely worried about our women. After my wife had her breast cancer diagnosis, I became aware of so many other woman down that path, their fear, the things they went through. we did that walk and I was shocked how many people were impacted. I was very focused on "what are we doing to our women??? why are they all getting this?" then in the past few months I've also had men largely on my mind. Mental illness, addiction, homelessness, suicide, and just sadness in general I think is largely on the male side and also largely ignored. Robin Williams has been on my mind a LOT lately, not only for his humor and his healing through humor, but for his own sadness and depression. I went from "we need to take better care of our women" to "we need to take better care of our men" to ... "actually, we all need some help" lol.

I love this idea. maybe a small portion of our contribuition could go towards like @sns8778 or @delsolrob and they'd pitch in like a prize for the winner, they both have great PreWO's out right now....

I know personally, I'd prefer to go by the scale. my low of 183 Nov 1st is now 197/198, so I've had a great run on this bench cycle, but I'd like to get back into the 180s before I start my next run up.

Very well said.

Robin Williams is someone whose mind I can relate to a lot because he tried to put other people first and help others, and through helping people laugh and smile, he found moments of relief from his own depression.

I've always struggled with anxiety and depression, but never talked openly about it until the last few years. As a society, unfortunately, there are certain types of people that have always been viewed as being supposed to be stronger than others and judged bigtime if they talked openly about sadness, depression, etc.

I love supplements and I love helping people, and that's a big part of what the companies are about to me is helping people achieve their results and hopefully their quality of life through supplements.

As much as I love supplements though, one thing I've always been more passionate about is helping people with mental health issues. I've done volunteer counseling and other volunteer work for years, but never talk about it much bc its something I do bc I want to, not bc I want others to know about.

For a long time now, I've tried to think of any ways I could merge the things that I love into some type of project and that's something I'm hoping to be able to do this year.

I'd be glad to offer prizes to the winner of the contest that you all are thinking on doing. I wouldn't want any part of the contributions, I would rather those go towards charity than me. For people who like our products, absolutely, please buy them and use them as part of the contest and that would help me; but I wouldn't want anything from the contribution pool.

 

[Segansational]

One thought is:
Contest Style: All agree to a $20-50 donation to a charity, winner of each category gets to choose their favorite charity and then everyone in that category send the money to the winners choice of charity.

Accountability Style: $25 donation to charity of your choice if you succeed, $50 donation made if you do not reach your resolution goal. Participants choose if you if you actually met your goal so the goal must be measurable. IE target weight gained or weight lost, visible abs, increase strength by something measurable.

Feel free to add any thoughts and if you would be willing to do one of these and which would be the preference.

Well, either way, i like the added donation to charity aspect. I do think that if we're all contributing to the winners pot - then we should state upfront where it's going (vs deciding the charity at the end). I like a bigger amount going to one charity, but the other option does allow us to spread the wealth around.

Either way though, count me in.

 

[MrKleen73]

Well, either way, i like the added donation to charity aspect. I do think that if we're all contributing to the winners pot - then we should state upfront where it's going (vs deciding the charity at the end). I like a bigger amount going to one charity, but the other option does allow us to spread the wealth around.

Either way though, count me in.

Sorry for the delay in hopping back on. I was just getting myself going again.

Yeah, I was thinking we could donate to the one we all donated to for Rocket unless anyone else had a different idea. Would be a nice way to honor him since he participated in most of my challenges in the past. We could even donate in his name again. The we all just show proof of our donation at the end of the challenge period.

Rather than make it a contest where we have to vote who won, I think we should make it a goal accountability thread. Basically we state what our goals are, and the time frame it needs to be completed in. Preferably this would be something measurable like a specific amount of weight lost/gained, a strength goal, or something like that. Then we could all agree on a minimum donation like $25-50, and the Accountability payment would be double for not achieving the goal in the set time.

Let me know your thoughts and I will make a thread for this.

Current Update:
New Years I was 214.6, and as of yesterday morning I was 212.4 Lbs. I haven't really lifted in about a month, and just let some things recover. I still have some limiting factors, but am ready to tackle these goals. The ball of my left foot is still recovering from the bone bruise, so I will have to be careful with leg work, and how I choose to do cardio. I still have the issues with my neck / rotator cuff area on my right side, but these are things I am just going to have to work around too.

I have been fasting then eating loosely in the evening for a while. Although I maintained a relatively decent body fat level, I have for sure lost a little muscle the last month. I do expect to fill right back up once my overall calorie intake comes up, and macros are more geared toward hypertrophy, and not enjoyment while keeping calories lower. Plus, the physical activity will really improve nutrient uptake. I expect to see a visible change pretty quickly in muscle fullness, and overall appearance.

Goal = Weight loss - Current Weight: 212.4 Target Weight: 200lbs or less by March 31, 2025

 

[Dustin07]

You're looking good dude, even with a month of R&R and mental health recovery, you have stayed leaner than 99% of us lol. What a great foundation you have built over the years!!

. The ball of my left foot is still recovering from the bone bruise,

Are you certain it's a bone bruise and not muscular? My wife got me one of those foot massage machines you put on the floor by your couch and just drop your feet into while you're watching TV. I had told her how awesome my parents was, so she got me one for Christmas, lol. It doesn't seem like much, but when I have really sore feet after squats or say walking/golf it seems to do the trick. BUT I think mine is maybe the plantar issue acting up, not a bone bruise...

I have been fasting then eating loosely in the evening for a while.

Man I tell you what, this is always my favorite "cruise" when I'm inbetween goals.

 

[Hyde]

Glad to hear you’re ready to start getting back to it, and have a goal in mind - this is great! Looking in a great place to begin anew.

I know I can’t actually deadlift just this moment, but I had a personal goal to be able to deadlift 455 by New Years and wanted to pull 500 by end of March. I can’t change getting hurt at 440 & not being able to pull the 455 session on NYE, but I only wanted to at least single it. The 440x5 on a powerbar I did easily puts me at a 500lb 1RM potential, so I’m happy with that. I would really like to ACTUALLY pull 500 from the floor by end of March. This seems like a very realistic goal, because I basically just need to maintain body strength while I heal, & then execute.

 

[Dustin07]

I had a personal goal to be able to deadlift 455 by New Years and wanted to pull 500 by end of March. I can’t change getting hurt at 440 & not being able to pull the 455 session on NYE, but I only wanted to at least single it.

kinda reminds me of the old "it's the journey" mantra. Had I gone for 305 on NYE and missed it, I don't think I would have been disappointed because my 6 week cube journey was effective. My base was built, my capacity increased, and I had those many reps PRs. I see you in a very similar situation with the injury recovery. Not pulling 455 isn't nearly as important as the rehab work that you DID accomplish.

 

[Dustin07]

also Kleen, your arms look huge.

 

[MrKleen73]

You're looking good dude, even with a month of R&R and mental health recovery, you have stayed leaner than 99% of us lol. What a great foundation you have built over the years!!



Are you certain it's a bone bruise and not muscular? My wife got me one of those foot massage machines you put on the floor by your couch and just drop your feet into while you're watching TV. I had told her how awesome my parents was, so she got me one for Christmas, lol. It doesn't seem like much, but when I have really sore feet after squats or say walking/golf it seems to do the trick. BUT I think mine is maybe the plantar issue acting up, not a bone bruise...


Man I tell you what, this is always my favorite "cruise" when I'm inbetween goals.

Thank you Sir!

I am pretty sure this is a bone bruise, it feels just like the other times I have bruised my bone. I have had a minor bruise on the ball before but had a massive one on my heal when I was in Kung Fu, from doing aerials and landing on my heel one time. Honestly 4-6 months is not that long for a bone bruise on the foot if you have not been able to stop using it. I will most likely make an appointment at a podiatrist here real soon now that my FSA is all stocked back up. The continuous bloodwork every 8 weeks last year on top of all of the soft tissue work ran through all of my medical funds by July which is when the foot started to get bruised, and then continued to get worse until I bought some super comfortable shoes to pad, and basically just tried to walk as little as possible over the last 6 weeks. It has improved quite a bit the last 6 weeks but I know it won't take much to be going the opposite direction.

Glad to hear you’re ready to start getting back to it, and have a goal in mind - this is great! Looking in a great place to begin anew.

I know I can’t actually deadlift just this moment, but I had a personal goal to be able to deadlift 455 by New Years and wanted to pull 500 by end of March. I can’t change getting hurt at 440 & not being able to pull the 455 session on NYE, but I only wanted to at least single it. The 440x5 on a powerbar I did easily puts me at a 500lb 1RM potential, so I’m happy with that. I would really like to ACTUALLY pull 500 from the floor by end of March. This seems like a very realistic goal, because I basically just need to maintain body strength while I heal, & then execute.

Agreed, I actually am a lot more comfortable in my skin after this mental reset. I don't feel bad for not wanting to compete this year any longer. Honestly, I am quite comfortable with just leaning up and targeting a physique I am proud of, and try to maintain it while likely even reincorporating some of my old training modalities. I don't have to be so darn careful not to do anything that could mess up the time invested in my BB efforts. I am excited about the idea of doing some of the things I kept myself from doing while trying to get ready for BB. I wouldn't even punch a punching bag during those 2 years because I didn't want to risk injury. So there are a few things I restricted myself from that I will allow and see if I can get myself a little more well rounded and get some of my athletic ability back.

I think that is a great goal! Honesty if my foot was okay that would sound like a fun one for me to get in on.

 

[gphagan1]

Sorry for the delay in hopping back on. I was just getting myself going again.

Yeah, I was thinking we could donate to the one we all donated to for Rocket unless anyone else had a different idea. Would be a nice way to honor him since he participated in most of my challenges in the past. We could even donate in his name again. The we all just show proof of our donation at the end of the challenge period.

Rather than make it a contest where we have to vote who won, I think we should make it a goal accountability thread. Basically we state what our goals are, and the time frame it needs to be completed in. Preferably this would be something measurable like a specific amount of weight lost/gained, a strength goal, or something like that. Then we could all agree on a minimum donation like $25-50, and the Accountability payment would be double for not achieving the goal in the set time.

Let me know your thoughts and I will make a thread for this.

Current Update:
New Years I was 214.6, and as of yesterday morning I was 212.4 Lbs. I haven't really lifted in about a month, and just let some things recover. I still have some limiting factors, but am ready to tackle these goals. The ball of my left foot is still recovering from the bone bruise, so I will have to be careful with leg work, and how I choose to do cardio. I still have the issues with my neck / rotator cuff area on my right side, but these are things I am just going to have to work around too.

I have been fasting then eating loosely in the evening for a while. Although I maintained a relatively decent body fat level, I have for sure lost a little muscle the last month. I do expect to fill right back up once my overall calorie intake comes up, and macros are more geared toward hypertrophy, and not enjoyment while keeping calories lower. Plus, the physical activity will really improve nutrient uptake. I expect to see a visible change pretty quickly in muscle fullness, and overall appearance.

Goal = Weight loss - Current Weight: 212.4 Target Weight: 200lbs or less by March 31, 2025
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Still looking good even after the rest and
re-set. Sounds like all of us has some kind of nagging injury. Hopefully the foot is just a bruise and not bone spurs. I’ve had those in my elbows and one of my heels, and definitely not fun.

 

[akboom87]

Sorry for the delay in hopping back on. I was just getting myself going again.

Yeah, I was thinking we could donate to the one we all donated to for Rocket unless anyone else had a different idea. Would be a nice way to honor him since he participated in most of my challenges in the past. We could even donate in his name again. The we all just show proof of our donation at the end of the challenge period.

Rather than make it a contest where we have to vote who won, I think we should make it a goal accountability thread. Basically we state what our goals are, and the time frame it needs to be completed in. Preferably this would be something measurable like a specific amount of weight lost/gained, a strength goal, or something like that. Then we could all agree on a minimum donation like $25-50, and the Accountability payment would be double for not achieving the goal in the set time.

Let me know your thoughts and I will make a thread for this.

Current Update:
New Years I was 214.6, and as of yesterday morning I was 212.4 Lbs. I haven't really lifted in about a month, and just let some things recover. I still have some limiting factors, but am ready to tackle these goals. The ball of my left foot is still recovering from the bone bruise, so I will have to be careful with leg work, and how I choose to do cardio. I still have the issues with my neck / rotator cuff area on my right side, but these are things I am just going to have to work around too.

I have been fasting then eating loosely in the evening for a while. Although I maintained a relatively decent body fat level, I have for sure lost a little muscle the last month. I do expect to fill right back up once my overall calorie intake comes up, and macros are more geared toward hypertrophy, and not enjoyment while keeping calories lower. Plus, the physical activity will really improve nutrient uptake. I expect to see a visible change pretty quickly in muscle fullness, and overall appearance.

Goal = Weight loss - Current Weight: 212.4 Target Weight: 200lbs or less by March 31, 2025
View attachment 248511View attachment 248512
View attachment 248513View attachment 248514

Still looking fantastic man! Glad you got some you time and much needed break sounds like it was much needed!

 

[Segansational]

Yeah, I was thinking we could donate to the one we all donated to for Rocket unless anyone else had a different idea. Would be a nice way to honor him since he participated in most of my challenges in the past. We could even donate in his name again. The we all just show proof of our donation at the end of the challenge period.

Rather than make it a contest where we have to vote who won, I think we should make it a goal accountability thread. Basically we state what our goals are, and the time frame it needs to be completed in. Preferably this would be something measurable like a specific amount of weight lost/gained, a strength goal, or something like that. Then we could all agree on a minimum donation like $25-50, and the Accountability payment would be double for not achieving the goal in the set time.

Let me know your thoughts and I will make a thread for this.

This is great and love the idea of donating to his charity and in his honor. Great way to keep his memory alive!

 

[sns8778]

Yeah, I was thinking we could donate to the one we all donated to for Rocket unless anyone else had a different idea. Would be a nice way to honor him since he participated in most of my challenges in the past. We could even donate in his name again. The we all just show proof of our donation at the end of the challenge period.

I think that would be a great idea.

Another thing, if anyone wants to do it in Rockets honor, would be a charity related to Autism, as his grandson is autistic and Rocket used to send me a lot of pictures of them together and always considered him his best friend. I would be glad to ask his family if there is a particular one that he was partial to if anyone wants.

 

[Dustin07]

when I was in Kung Fu

 

[Hyde]

I think that would be a great idea.

Another thing, if anyone wants to do it in Rockets honor, would be a charity related to Autism, as his grandson is autistic and Rocket used to send me a lot of pictures of them together and always considered him his best friend. I would be glad to ask his family if there is a particular one that he was partial to if anyone wants.

Yeah that’s a great idea!

 

[MrKleen73]

I think that would be a great idea.

Another thing, if anyone wants to do it in Rockets honor, would be a charity related to Autism, as his grandson is autistic and Rocket used to send me a lot of pictures of them together and always considered him his best friend. I would be glad to ask his family if there is a particular one that he was partial to if anyone wants.

Sounds good to me. I will go ahead and make a thread for this and we will just put that it will be the charity of Rocket's family choice. I will post that up here shortly.

I had myself a nice little stomach bug the last 2 days. Stomach is a little bloated but feeling better. I did my first Push workout of the year Monday night and am surprisingly just now recovering from that. Just breaking back in after some time off. I am starting with a modified Push-Lower-Pull rotating through and increasing frequency and overall volume as things progress. Most likely starting with 3 weight training sessions a week and work up frequency over the meso. To be honest, I am not locking myself into any particular training style and just focusing on having some fun in the gym while I am there at first. So training may be all over the place, or it my tighten up to a set program depending on how things are going. Either way, for right now I am just going to make sure to train weights no less than 3 times a week, and do whatever is required to lose the weight I have committed to losing.

I will post up the accountability thread here shortly and put a link to it in here.

 

[MrKleen73]

Here is the link to the accountability thread.

Thread '2025 Accountability Thread - Held in remembrance of Rocket3015!!!'

Jan 9, 2025

In the last several years a group of us have often got together to do challenges or accountability threads to help us achieve our goals. Sometimes these are just after New Year's for resolutions, sometimes in the middle of the year to get ready for summer, but we have all got together to help each other reach our goals and also give us something to lose if we don't achieve our goals. This year I would like to run one in remembrance of Rocket3015, one our beloved lost brothers here on AM. He was one of the nicest, most positive and kind people on the board. His generosity was unmatched and...

• MrKleen73
• Replies: 135
• Forum: Workout Logs

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[MrKleen73]

I have been working on my fasting and yesterday was my first 24 hour fast in a long time. Even got some cardio in mid day yesterday to take advantage. I figure since I am dealing with this issue with my foot I need to create my deficits another way. So fasting is going to be that solution. I will work it up to some 36 hour fasts, might even push a 60 on the way to this one. It just depends on how training is going and if taking a few days away from training to extend for a long fast makes sense at the time.

Luckily, the recumbent bike was not too bad on my foot. I did have to change foot placement on the pedal a little bit to keep it comfortable, but I was able to pull off 30 minutes averaging about 135BPM which ain't easy on a bike. At least not for me. Quads had a massive pump after this even fasted.

After that I continued my fast until 8:00PM then had a nice meal before bed. 185g chicken breast, 225g jasmine rice, Tikka Masala Sauce, and 12g olive oil plus 3 dates on the side.

Today will be a lift day, so I will eat throughout the day today, keeping calories lower overall but push for some anabolism around training. They are buying us breakfast tacos this morning at work. So I will have 2 of those and a protein shake for my first meal. Then keep the rest of the day cleaner since it is hard to guess how many calories and or fat is in a breakfast taco. Either way, the plan is to keep calories under 2600 for the day to get this weight off me quickly.

 

[akboom87]

Just glad to have you back on and posting! Man some breakfast tacos sounds pretty dang good!

 

[MrKleen73]

Just glad to have you back on and posting! Man some breakfast tacos sounds pretty dang good!

Thanks AK!
Yeah, not quite a diet food, but I can make it work calorically. I figure between a shake and 2 tacos I am looking at around 650-700 calories so I will count it as 800 to be safe and go from there. Lunch will be 185g chicken breast 225g jasmine rice, 10g olive oil, salsa, then Intra Drink will be 2 servings of POST which will be 48g p, 72g c, and 0 fats. I have several 8-10 oz sirloin steaks at the house and will have one for dinner. Possibly adding in some more carbs.

 

[Hyde]

Thanks AK!
Yeah, not quite a diet food, but I can make it work calorically. I figure between a shake and 2 tacos I am looking at around 650-700 calories so I will count it as 800 to be safe and go from there. Lunch will be 185g chicken breast 225g jasmine rice, 10g olive oil, salsa, then Intra Drink will be 2 servings of POST which will be 48g p, 72g c, and 0 fats. I have several 8-10 oz sirloin steaks at the house and will have one for dinner. Possibly adding in some more carbs.

Hit some asparagus with that sirloin, and a big salad!

 

[MrKleen73]

Had a good weekend, took care of some stuff around the house, dropped to 212 even, still figuring out calories with new level of activity. Things are moving along, and should pick up some speed as I build momentum.

 

[akboom87]

Had a good weekend, took care of some stuff around the house, dropped to 212 even, still figuring out calories with new level of activity. Things are moving along, and should pick up some speed as I build momentum.

Sounds like a good weekend and already dropping weight!

 

[MrKleen73]

Sounds like a good weekend and already dropping weight!

Yeah, it was nice! I have been at a decent deficit every day for the last week. Not seeing much on the scale, actually up a lb to 213 today but I ate some things that tend to make me hold a little more water so not sweating it. Consistently staying in a deficit will win out in the end. Plus, the fact my momentum will pick up as we go and things will probably go closer to a 1000 calorie deficit at some point in the near future.

 

[MrKleen73]

Still having a bit of a rough go here. Having a hard time with motivation and humility required going back to the gym. My only sessions so far have been in my garage, just the thought of walking back in the gym in my current condition is a hard pill to swallow. I know that probably sounds silly, but there is absolutely a difference in how you are seen or treated when you are ripped and jacked to the point of show condition or anywhere close. I know in my mind no one expects me to be in contest shape year round or anything but there is undeniably some shame on my part. I know that is dumb, but it doesn't change how it feels. So still dealing with some mental stuff but using the accountability thread, and the forum to keep me somewhat engaged until I can get myself motivated and pushing. I had a slow start the last time we did this, but managed to hit my goal, so I am in no way giving up. Just having a bit of a stutter start.

 

[gphagan1]

Still having a bit of a rough go here. Having a hard time with motivation and humility required going back to the gym. My only sessions so far have been in my garage, just the thought of walking back in the gym in my current condition is a hard pill to swallow. I know that probably sounds silly, but there is absolutely a difference in how you are seen or treated when you are ripped and jacked to the point of show condition or anywhere close. I know in my mind no one expects me to be in contest shape year round or anything but there is undeniably some shame on my part. I know that is dumb, but it doesn't change how it feels. So still dealing with some mental stuff but using the accountability thread, and the forum to keep me somewhat engaged until I can get myself motivated and pushing. I had a slow start the last time we did this, but managed to hit my goal, so I am in no way giving up. Just having a bit of a stutter start.

Definitely understand that, we are always our toughest critic. And I know you know it, but rest assured you’re still in better shape than 90% or more of people in most gyms.

 

[MrKleen73]

Definitely understand that, we are always our toughest critic. And I know you know it, but rest assured you’re still in better shape than 90% are more of people in most gyms.

Right, if only emotions took logic into consideration eh...

 

[Hyde]

Still having a bit of a rough go here. Having a hard time with motivation and humility required going back to the gym. My only sessions so far have been in my garage, just the thought of walking back in the gym in my current condition is a hard pill to swallow. I know that probably sounds silly, but there is absolutely a difference in how you are seen or treated when you are ripped and jacked to the point of show condition or anywhere close. I know in my mind no one expects me to be in contest shape year round or anything but there is undeniably some shame on my part. I know that is dumb, but it doesn't change how it feels. So still dealing with some mental stuff but using the accountability thread, and the forum to keep me somewhat engaged until I can get myself motivated and pushing. I had a slow start the last time we did this, but managed to hit my goal, so I am in no way giving up. Just having a bit of a stutter start.

Kleen, I am saying this here amongst our friends & peers, because I am your friend & respect you: it doesn’t matter how you feel. Just go to the gym.

I appreciate you keeping it real. It’s okay to be ashamed, you can feel insecure, & you can set a timer for 30 minutes on your timer phone, just do some cardio watching Netflix in a baggy hoody & leave right away after. But for me, for you, and for every New Years Resolutioner who is truly out of shape but still takes that first step - you got this brother. And it will only get easier every time. You can do this, and you are going to probably help someone else without even realizing it.

Go to the f*cking gym!

 

[MrKleen73]

Kleen, I am saying this here amongst our friends & peers, because I am your friend & respect you: it doesn’t matter how you feel. Just go to the gym.

I appreciate you keeping it real. It’s okay to be ashamed, you can feel insecure, & you can set a timer for 30 minutes on your timer phone, just do some cardio watching Netflix in a baggy hoody & leave right away after. But for me, for you, and for every New Years Resolutioner who is truly out of shape but still takes that first step - you got this brother. And it will only get easier every time. You can do this, and you are going to probably help someone else without even realizing it.

Go to the f*cking gym!

I love you for that kick in the ass Brother. As much as I love how understanding and supportive everyone is, sometimes it is the kick in the ass that is needed. I know all of this anxiety will drop as soon as I am doing the damn thing. It will be like coming home after a long trip. All I need to do is walk through the door.

Speaking of taking a trip, I leave first thing in the morning tomorrow for Golden Colorado and will be working all weekend making that OT, but will take my happy ass to the gym Tuesday which is my first day back. If I somehow end up with time to go, I will try to get a session in while in Golden. It will be a lot of work packed into a short trip though, so not committing to that but I am committing to Tuesday for certain.

 

[akboom87]

I love you for that kick in the ass Brother. As much as I love how understanding and supportive everyone is, sometimes it is the kick in the ass that is needed. I know all of this anxiety will drop as soon as I am doing the damn thing. It will be like coming home after a long trip. All I need to do is walk through the door.

Speaking of taking a trip, I leave first thing in the morning tomorrow for Golden Colorado and will be working all weekend making that OT, but will take my happy ass to the gym Tuesday which is my first day back. If I somehow end up with time to go, I will try to get a session in while in Golden. It will be a lot of work packed into a short trip though, so not committing to that but I am committing to Tuesday for certain.

You better get your ass in there Tuesday or I’ll send more snow and cold down south!!

 

[Segansational]

Time to go get it brother, both that $$ and that in the gym!

 

[Dustin07]

humility required going back to the gym. My only sessions so far have been in my garage, just the thought of walking back in the gym in my current condition is a hard pill to swallow. I know that probably sounds silly, but there is absolutely a difference in how you are seen or treated when you are ripped and jacked to the point of show condition or anywhere close. I know in my mind no one expects me to be in contest shape year round or anything but there is undeniably some shame on my part. I know that is dumb, but it doesn't change how it feels.

in a baggy hoody

I was gonna say the same thing. throw on the pump cover / hoodie, big headphones and go into the zone. The bodybuilder in the pump covers is often more intimidating than the one in the racer back string tank anyways cause that mofo is building.

 

[PolishHamm3r77]

Still having a bit of a rough go here. Having a hard time with motivation and humility required going back to the gym. My only sessions so far have been in my garage, just the thought of walking back in the gym in my current condition is a hard pill to swallow. I know that probably sounds silly, but there is absolutely a difference in how you are seen or treated when you are ripped and jacked to the point of show condition or anywhere close. I know in my mind no one expects me to be in contest shape year round or anything but there is undeniably some shame on my part. I know that is dumb, but it doesn't change how it feels. So still dealing with some mental stuff but using the accountability thread, and the forum to keep me somewhat engaged until I can get myself motivated and pushing. I had a slow start the last time we did this, but managed to hit my goal, so I am in no way giving up. Just having a bit of a stutter start.

DUDE!!! What in the absolute fawkin fawk??? You been creeping on my thread too much? I’m the one usually sitting when he pees between sets. NOT YOU!!! You are an inspiration to me. You keep us guys on the wrong side of 40 motivated. We have talked and both know the other has seen and been through some shite!!! We are all in your corner!!!

Grab your headphones, grab a hoodie, keep the hoodie over your head like blinders, pick ANY Pantera album, and COWBOY THE FUK UP!!! You got this!!!

And if you need a hug we can go tip to tip

 

[Dustin07]

I’m the one usually sitting when he pees between sets.

 

[MrKleen73]

Time to go get it brother, both that $$ and that in the gym!

Yes Sir!

I was gonna say the same thing. throw on the pump cover / hoodie, big headphones and go into the zone. The bodybuilder in the pump covers is often more intimidating than the one in the racer back string tank anyways cause that mofo is building.

Yeah, the pump covers and hoodie definitely kind of give that don't F with me I am not here to be social vibe!

DUDE!!! What in the absolute fawkin fawk??? You been creeping on my thread too much? I’m the one usually sitting when he pees between sets. NOT YOU!!! You are an inspiration to me. You keep us guys on the wrong side of 40 motivated. We have talked and both know the other has seen and been through some shite!!! We are all in your corner!!!

Grab your headphones, grab a hoodie, keep the hoodie over your head like blinders, pick ANY Pantera album, and COWBOY THE FUK UP!!! You got this!!!

And if you need a hug we can go tip to tip

You had me at Sitting when you pee, then sealed the deal with going tip to tip!

I got home a bit late yesterday then had 2 attorneys that showed up to the trial site after I left that had old laptops that didn't want to connect. So I spent a few hours getting them all set up, and wasn't able to get to the gym. I have my stuff with me today and will be going to do some cardio at lunch, and then just go to the gym on the way home.

It is go time, I am already aware I have my work cut out for me now. I have 13lbs to lose in 8 weeks. It can be done but just because I may end up paying extra for my slow start doesn't mean I am not going to try. The real deal is we are going to go to Destin again mid June, and I have decided I will be nice and lean for the trip. In order to do that I have to get things done now.

 

[gphagan1]

Yes Sir!

Yeah, the pump covers and hoodie definitely kind of give that don't F with me I am not here to be social vibe!

You had me at Sitting when you pee, then sealed the deal with going tip to tip!

I got home a bit late yesterday then had 2 attorneys that showed up to the trial site after I left that had old laptops that didn't want to connect. So I spent a few hours getting them all set up, and wasn't able to get to the gym. I have my stuff with me today and will be going to do some cardio at lunch, and then just go to the gym on the way home.

It is go time, I am already aware I have my work cut out for me now. I have 13lbs to lose in 8 weeks. It can be done but just because I may end up paying extra for my slow start doesn't mean I am not going to try. The real deal is we are going to go to Destin again mid June, and I have decided I will be nice and lean for the trip. In order to do that I have to get things done now.

Yeah man…….it’s go time

 

[PolishHamm3r77]

Yes Sir!

Yeah, the pump covers and hoodie definitely kind of give that don't F with me I am not here to be social vibe!

You had me at Sitting when you pee, then sealed the deal with going tip to tip!

I got home a bit late yesterday then had 2 attorneys that showed up to the trial site after I left that had old laptops that didn't want to connect. So I spent a few hours getting them all set up, and wasn't able to get to the gym. I have my stuff with me today and will be going to do some cardio at lunch, and then just go to the gym on the way home.

It is go time, I am already aware I have my work cut out for me now. I have 13lbs to lose in 8 weeks. It can be done but just because I may end up paying extra for my slow start doesn't mean I am not going to try. The real deal is we are going to go to Destin again mid June, and I have decided I will be nice and lean for the trip. In order to do that I have to get things done now.

Luv ya Buddy!!! Time to put that game face on!!!

 

[akboom87]

I’m been waiting for 2 week for IT to install drivers to are new plotter, they also need to install all the new software for the 2025 versions. I don’t know what are IT department works on but it’s not my help tickets

 

[Hyde]

How did it go yesterday??

 

[MrKleen73]

Yeah man…….it’s go time

Luv ya Buddy!!! Time to put that game face on!!!

You know it!

I’m been waiting for 2 week for IT to install drivers to are new plotter, they also need to install all the new software for the 2025 versions. I don’t know what are IT department works on but it’s not my help tickets

LMAO, that sucks. Your IT department is probably underfunded. We are seen as a necessary evil, we are a cost of doing business and often not the priority at all. Most places will whittle IT until bad things happen then try to plug the holes.

That being said, if I left someone waiting for 2 weeks at my job I wouldn't have a job. Of course with a law firm IT has to be pretty Johnny on the spot! Down time and failures can cost the firm millions if they happen at the wrong time. So they tend to prioritize it a bit more than some fields.

How did it go yesterday??

I ended up fasting for 20 hours but was not able to get to the gym. I had an emergency at the trial site Tuesday and put in a 16 hour day. So I just ran out of time. I did get a nice push session in yesterday though, and I have been keeping a solid deficit since I got back. I am down to 210 again right now. I will hit legs today on the way home. Although I am not gung ho just yet, I am at least moving in the right direction. Dropping to 210 puts me a half lb lower than before the trip. So not as bad off as I thought but still a challenge.

On a good note, I made some SERIOUS BANK over the last 6 days. I got 12 hours OT Saturday, 10 hours of double time on Sunday. Then racked up another 12 hours of OT so far this week.

On another note, being up there in the cold pissed off my eczema so now my calves, shins, knees, hip bones, forearms elbows and triceps are all bumpy itchy and dry. Basically any place my clothes create higher friction on my body is affected. So, I am rubbing steroidal cream over most of my body to get it back under control.

On my final note, excited about tomorrow, I turn 52 and I told the wife I would like to go to a comedy club or something for my birthday. So she bought the family tickets to see Katt Williams with a group of his comics. I am really looking forward to the show. Tomorrow's dinner will not be a diet dinner. I will eat like it is my birthday and enjoy the day. Trying to figure out where the feast will be now.

 

[Hyde]

Kat is a funny man! Hope it’s awesome. But before that, I hope legs tonight are too!

 

[gphagan1]

Awesome, Happy early Birthday….still a young buck. We love comedy clubs. Hope you guys have a great time, and pig out at dinner….oh and hopefully the little lady will provide dessert.

 

[SkRaw85]

Happy early bday Kleen and here’s to the 2025 gainz!!!

 

[PolishHamm3r77]

Happy Birthday Brother!!! Enjoy the comedy show!!!

 

[MrKleen73]

Kat is a funny man! Hope it’s awesome. But before that, I hope legs tonight are too!

Agreed,he is one of the greats. Legs went well, I did an easy break in session concerned with testing my foot more than anything.

Awesome, Happy early Birthday….still a young buck. We love comedy clubs. Hope you guys have a great time, and pig out at dinner….oh and hopefully the little lady will provide dessert.

Oh yeah the comedy clubs are fun, this will actually be at an arena. He tours with 2-3 opening comedians that he wants to spotlight. Oh I will eat,and hopefully have some dessert too!

Happy early bday Kleen and here’s to the 2025 gainz!!!

Thank You Sir!

Happy Birthday Brother!!! Enjoy the comedy show!!!

Thanks Brother!

I kept legs pretty simple, breaking back in, testing the foot a little and then using leg curls, and extensions.

Leg Press 370x15 x 3 sets
BW Walking Lunges 10 reps per leg x 2 sets
Leg Extensions 3x12-15
Seated Leg Curls 3x12=15

My foot is not quite recovered yet but has continued to improve with these new shoes and not walking barefoot around the house. I was actually impressed while in Golden I was able to go take a walk for about 45 minutes once. With the hills I had to press off the ball of my foot more than usual recently and it did push the foot to where it was getting sore after working on it the rest of the day. However it recovered overnight. So I am a little more confident in being able to put a little weight on it without making it worse.

It is a bit hard choosing a program I want to do right now with my foot, and nerve stuff in my neck/back/shoulder making planning for one a bit harder. I don't want to run into frustration of not being able to follow a plan and get discouraged. Yet, I find myself in need of some sort of structure that is simple, quick paced, flexible and fun. For now, I think I am going to do the Fortitude Training style Intensive Cruise using only muscle round sets, one day upper body, and one day lower body. The benefit of the muscle rounds is I can pick whatever exercise I want for each body part on any given day based on how things are feeling, and it won't be a frustrating deviation from the plan. I will get in 3-4 training sessions a week for right now, adding in cardio or other energy consuming activities throughout the rest of the week. As far as cardio, and energy expenditure, I have to figure out what all I can get away with on this foot while allowing it to continue to improve. I will probably rely a little more on caloric restriction and fasting than cardio as far as weight reduction but I still want some cardio for heart health / lipids.

I may pull out my Stroops Resistance Band Battle Ropes, they are a great way to get the heart rate through the roof and add a little training volume, and variety with each rope offering 150lbs of resistance at a full stretch you can do a full body pump HIIT cardio session with them easily while not pushing the foot too much.

 

[akboom87]

Happy birthday @MrKleen73 !!!

 

[SkRaw85]

Glad the foot is on the mend brother. Any plan is better than no plan, and we all know you know what to do

 

[Hyde]

Hope it was a great birthday sir! Wishing you a great year ahead

 

[Segansational]

Happy birthday Kleen! Hope you enjoyed the dinner & a show. Here's to making this year a great one.

 

[MrKleen73]

Happy birthday @MrKleen73 !!!

Thanks!!!

Glad the foot is on the mend brother. Any plan is better than no plan, and we all know you know what to do

Yes Sir!

Hope it was a great birthday sir! Wishing you a great year ahead

It was, thank you!

Happy birthday Kleen! Hope you enjoyed the dinner & a show. Here's to making this year a great one.

Thanks, yeah the dinner was great, and the show was awesome too! So many great comics came with him, we laughed so hard.

Well the challenges keep coming, I woke up the next day, ate something, did an upper body session, told my wife I was exhausted, and was going to take a nap. My wife woke me up about 8:30PM to see if I wanted to eat, I said no and passed back out. I woke up again around 11:30 and realized I was running a fever. I was wiped out, and in bed until mid afternoon yesterday. Unfortunately, the time in bed flared up my sciatica, and the pull ups I did Sunday flared up my neck so I have some burning nerve pain in my trap / rear delt / rotator cuff area, and in my glute and right leg.

I am having a heck of a time getting things going here. I am going to do some lower body training today, and hopefully it will help with the sciatica rather than irritate it. Seems forced inactivity tends to cause me to flare up. So hopefully movement is the answer. I am really hoping this nerve pain in my trap / rear delt / rotator cuff area subsides. Either way, I am going to look for a good ortho that specializes in neck and spine, and likely have this imaged so we know what we are working with and can make a better recovery program.