Well, another week came and went and I’m no closer to my goal weight of 185lbs. Weighed in at 204.4 because I still eat too much. My pants do fit looser, so I feel like at least the shape of my weight is changing from fat belly to leaner muscle mass. That’s the theory anyway.

Good news about my foray into longer cardio sessions though. My wife, a physical trainer, suggested that fewer sets while lifting weights while probably not adversely effect my strength building. It turns out a study has shown that people who do 1 set of 12 reps for each exercise are getting the same results as people doing 3 sets of eight per exercise. I do not believe that this means only one set per exercise is going to turn me into a professional body builder, but I do believe this means I can achieve my weight loss goals while building some strength. So that will free up the extra 15 minutes I need to devote to cardio at each trip to the gym. Excellent news.

Last night was my first experience with the 20/20/20 (described here) cardio routine. And it kicked my ass. The first 20 minutes on the elliptical machine was fine, didn’t feel much different than 15 minutes. Then came the tread mill. 20 minutes running on that thing, for me, is enough time for my mood to change 4 or 5 times. I went from feeling really good to feeling like I might pass out, to feeling numb (mentally), to being angry for being so out of shape. I had to force myself to keep moving, every step was a challenge for the last 4-6 minutes or so. Then came the 20 minutes on the bike. I was just in a zone, my body was just moving. I didn’t think, didn’t notice the time I spent on it, just pushed the pedals around and around. But I made it, and I was very proud of that.

Today is an off day for the gym, my oldest son turns 4. Spending q.t. with the family tonight!