tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-117482452011-04-21T21:36:00.362-07:00Marknoreply@blogger.comBlogger1081100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-81382338314565217582007-07-08T16:52:00.000-07:002007-07-09T03:35:09.222-07:00

It's funny to say that after all of this time I'm still excited by the changes I see in the mirror. It's been a long time since I "lost the weight" so having friends congratulate me and compliment me on how I'm looking has LONG past. That was a big source of motivation for me when I started working out.Today, I'm 165 lbs hard body and pretty lean at 11% body fat as of 2 minutes ago.Believe it or

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-31966667221396951632007-06-01T03:53:00.000-07:002007-06-01T03:58:06.356-07:00

I guess my physical transformation is really visible to the outside world. I getting questions from co-workers about getting in shape, keeping motivated and such.From my point of view, I think things are better than ever. You can see my abs finally!But, unfortunately I still have love handles and I'm not nearly as tight and lean as I'd like to be.

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-24657799614551246502007-05-27T04:11:00.001-07:002007-05-27T04:39:03.851-07:00

I can't believe that I'm still on this "workout thing" after so long. I really thought I would end up failing. I just find there are too many benefits to stop. This week, however, marks something that has not happened to me before. The Sugar Binge. I don't like sweet foods much instead favouring "salty crunchy" for my treats. I don't even like sugar in my coffee opting to drink it black. So

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1171720424208310862007-02-17T05:37:00.000-08:002007-02-17T05:53:44.246-08:00

Obviously having a newborn in the house changes life an awful lot. One things that's changed for me as well is that I've been going full bore trying to find a better paying job.Between the baby, looking for a new job and trying to get my house in better condition to sell, and not sleeping as well, I'm still working out regularily but have moved from a 2.5 year agressive muscle building routine

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1169516081866758342007-01-22T17:32:00.000-08:002007-01-22T17:34:41.886-08:00

I've decided I need a 2 week cardio kick.I'm going to lay off the weights and commit myself to 20-30 mintues of day of cardio for 2 weeks.Maybe then I'll finally get this extra fat off of my gut once and for all!

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1169081604906612532007-01-17T16:50:00.000-08:002007-01-17T16:53:24.926-08:00

Apparently my benefits package at work doesn't cover basic things! Who would have thunk it?So, I've just received a nice bill from the hospital that I wasn't expecting following my wife and son's stay.So, I can either be your trainer or help you on a computer let me know!

Marknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1168781887796904432007-01-14T05:35:00.000-08:002007-01-14T05:38:07.813-08:00

Christmas treats have caught up with me and I've gained a few pounds. Trying very hard to shave those back off and so far I'm on track.I was off work for 3 weeks after my son was born and although I kept my lifting routine in check I wasn't really walking around as much I do on a normal day in Toronto.The day after I got back to work I realized my chins really hurt from the amount of walking I

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1167830370041578922007-01-03T05:10:00.000-08:002007-01-03T05:36:03.873-08:00

I've been asked a few times whether or not I'll be able to keep with my workout routine with a newborn in tow.Master Nathan is already almost 2 weeks old and so far the routine hasn't skipped a beat except for the duration of his and his mother's hospital stay. While staying in the hospital with my wife my diet consisted mostly of protein shakes and stealing 250 ml containers of milk. And, I

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1166467571416547742006-12-18T10:42:00.000-08:002006-12-18T11:34:07.533-08:00

Upgrading my Bowflex:I'm really still debating on whether or not to get a new Bowflex or go for something cheaper.Don't get me wrong, I love my current Bowflex but I've maxed out on a few exercises like Bench Press and my machine cannot be upgraded.Recording Workout:Now, I don't get to do it often but every once in a while I record my training sessions. This helps me watch my form and assess my

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1165981032890284012006-12-12T19:26:00.000-08:002006-12-12T20:04:00.406-08:00

I've got a short list of tricep exercises that I really like:French Presswith EZ-Curl Dippy with added weight Bowflex (progressive cable) ExtensionsTricepPushdownCheck out the full list of exercises and muscle groups here.

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1165673416813402792006-12-09T05:33:00.000-08:002006-12-09T07:03:06.196-08:00

It's been a very busy past few weeks for me. I was recently promoted to Director and now have a pretty big staff and lots of projects that I'm responsible for. I think it's important to look the part too. I preach the "Always Be Your Best" mentality. That the more committed you are to your goals the more you'll achieve and the more satisfied you'll be when you get there. I practice what I preach

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1161601539530335692006-10-23T03:54:00.000-07:002006-10-23T04:06:20.886-07:00

If I've said it once I've said it a thousand times.I hate cardio!I would have to say that's the biggest flaw in my workouts is that I don't focus enough on cardio.Since I bike to and from the train station I usually try to make the excuse that my biking counts as a cardio workout. And, I guess it's not untrue but I'm certainly not getting the same effect as I would if I was running.I simply don't

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1161341967090741102006-10-20T03:58:00.000-07:002006-10-20T03:59:27.103-07:00

My replacement part finally arrived yesterday for my Bowflex. I'm very happy!

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1160946372435802702006-10-15T14:00:00.000-07:002006-10-15T14:28:43.896-07:00

I've found for me that one way to keep motivated it to track my progress. It's really great to see what I used to bench, for example, compared to what I'm lifing today.I got my first routine from the Men's Health web site a year and 9 months ago. It was a circuit training routine and being as overweight as I was at the time it was NOT EASY to get though.However, thankfully, I kept dedicated logs

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1160017206218776612006-10-04T19:56:00.000-07:002006-10-04T20:00:06.230-07:00

Sorry I haven't really posted lately.Things have been hectic around here but fortunately I'm still making time to hit the gym (well..home gym). Amazingly, even though I'm under way more stress than usual at least I'm still sleeping well thanks to the exercise.It's one of those weeks I guess....maybe I'll have more to say later.

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1159442546533821092006-09-28T04:12:00.000-07:002006-09-28T04:36:08.010-07:00

Ordering a replacement part for my bowflex hasn't been as easy as I would have liked.I contacted Nautilus online and asked them to provide me with shipping and cost details. I explained that I bought my system at a Canadian Tire in Canada. A few days later they responded with a 1-800 number to call.So I called the 1-800 number and spoke to a very helpful man who told me the part costs 9 dollars

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1159231687844624612006-09-25T17:40:00.000-07:002006-09-25T17:53:58.246-07:00

Let's clear up a misconception. Fast Food isn't fast!There...I said it now let me back it up.A few weeks ago I got in line at Tim Horton's for my morning caffein drip. It took about 10 minutes to get through the line-up plus the travel time between my office and the coffee shop. I took my cup to the office, polished it off, and looked for coffee #2 from the crappy coffee machine in our office. No

Marknoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1158887077957321372006-09-21T18:00:00.000-07:002006-09-21T18:04:37.973-07:00

I'm sad to say that my Bowflex is BROKEN. Less than 2 years old and the cables have started to give way. I learned this as I was doing shoulder presses and noticed a stabbing in my back. At first I thought I had pulled something....then I realized my Bowflex was STABBING me!Anyway, I've written the people at Bowflex to see how difficult it's going to be to get a replacement cable up to Toronto

Marknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1158146688428041742006-09-13T04:18:00.000-07:002006-09-13T20:10:38.333-07:00

Everyone who has ever been overweight knows it's not good and they all share one thing in common. They want it off quickly and are frustrated by the 1-2 pound a week rule that everyone talks about.If you are losing more than 1-2 pounds a week there is a very very very good chance that you are losing muscle tissue along with your fat. On a weight-scale this may look very good. The truth is though

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1156292258669262502006-08-22T17:04:00.000-07:002006-08-23T15:36:25.350-07:00

Some asshole(s) stole my bike today at the Ajax Go Train station. Whoever did it also got a bunch of other bikes too. I called the Durham Regional Police and filed a report...apparently they actually find the bikes and get them back sometimes. If you're the one who stole my bike then please accept my most sincere fuck you.

Marknoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1154870461649025482006-08-06T06:15:00.000-07:002006-08-06T06:36:28.923-07:00

My blog comes up a lot on people's search results looking for information on fitness and health. The one the that people seem to consistently ask is about the mysterious "Average Man". Presumably everyone wants to compare themselves to this "Average Man" to see how they rate.Here is a list of facts that I've found while surfing the internet for these critical comparison figures:Who is the Average

Marknoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1153963122959631162006-07-26T18:00:00.000-07:002006-07-26T20:14:15.876-07:00

I dug up some pictures that I never shared with the blogging crowd before. This was my "Week 10" Bowflex pictures. I thought I looked great (and I did compared to where I started). I'll follow it up with some picturs I took today.Ready? Ok, here's studly me 10 weeks after starting my Bowflex routine:Here's one week later...how handsome am I? Please excuse the nerdy haircut. I didn't know what i

Marknoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1153659141615447142006-07-23T05:42:00.000-07:002006-07-23T06:18:05.623-07:00

Our lives are filtered by our perspective and therefore how we experience things is coloured with the same marker.Take losing a job for instance. It feels horrible, you experience a sense of rejection and you are probably angry. However, chances are, you'll end up in a better paying job and ultimately be happier. Even if you know you'll be financially secure it doesn't stop the negative feelings

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1152329074546140122006-07-07T19:58:00.000-07:002006-07-07T20:24:34.560-07:00

I'm not saying that there aren't a lot of good suppliments out on the market. I think there's a lot of great choices for creatine, multi-vitamins and amino-acids.But, like everyone who has been down this road before me I've been looking for a "leg up" to reach my goals faster. I've said time and time again not to buy magic potions but like everyone who is working at building their body I've

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1151320394761948012006-06-26T03:59:00.002-07:002006-06-26T04:14:04.953-07:00

"Shut up and put your money where your mouth is!", I said to myself very quickly after posting the post prior to this one.I spent a few hours yeterday going over my nutrition plan to make sure I hadn't slipped up too badly.What I found was a bit surprising. I discovered that I was actually eating smaller meals than my 1,500 calorie a day plan allows. No wonder I was always so hungry at night and

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1151210822091036322006-06-24T21:32:00.000-07:002006-06-24T21:47:02.106-07:00

My wife wanted to see the original photo from my last post (maybe I'll post it eventually). She asked me why it was cropped? I answered that I needed to hide my weakest asset (my stomach).Like all good photography I generally only to to accentuate my positive traits which is why this photo ended up getting cropped.I do truly wish after a year and a half that I've been doing this workout routine

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1150855367889759462006-06-20T18:51:00.000-07:002006-06-20T19:02:47.906-07:00

So I know it's early but I wanted to post at least 1 updated photo.Seeing this photo gave me one of those "Is that really me?" moments.It's funny how my mental image of myself seems to lag about 6 months behind my actual physical body. The way I appear to myself in my dreams for instance is, very often, still the old me. The me that I used to see in the mirror. The me who was overweight, eating

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1150455764502010552006-06-16T03:57:00.000-07:002006-06-16T04:02:44.516-07:00

Now that I'm doing the "2 days on, one day off" routine I'm working out 5 days a week now. This takes a lot of time!!!!So, even though I know it's not perfectly ideal, I've moved my workouts to the morning before work so I can still spend time in the evenings with my wife.I've read that this is not such a great idea from a muscle building perspective however when I only have 4 hours a night

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1149398389973641192006-06-03T21:55:00.000-07:002006-06-03T22:58:59.133-07:00

I wasn't sure at first if this would have actually made the news in the US or not but I see it on both CNN and Fox News' homepage about the thrwarted major terrorist attempt in my city, Toronto Canada.From what I've read so far, this appears to be most well staffed (with 17 arrested so far) and organized effort since 9/11 itself involving huge amounts of explosives targetting currently unreleased

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1148953592460184502006-05-29T18:34:00.000-07:002006-05-29T18:56:31.640-07:00

Anyway, still at it doing the 2 day on 1 day off thing. So far so good.Here's a question for those of you who work out on a regular basis.Do you feel guilty if you miss a workout?I really cranked my shoulder on the weekend though so I had to take an extra day off and when I went back I couldn't lift at my regular weight so I took it down a notch. Coincidentally, my shoulder felt a lot better

Marknoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1148439147852194952006-05-23T19:42:00.000-07:002006-05-23T19:52:27.886-07:00

Here's the plan. Since I'm following the Action Hero Body stage 3 plan I thought I'd lay off on taking pictures for a while.You've seen recent photos of me from just before I started stage 3 and the book says it will take 3 months for noticable changes to take place.Well, 2 weeks into Stage 3 and I already see a big difference so I'm really excited to see how things turn out when I unveil my

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1147392134466439502006-05-11T16:59:00.000-07:002006-05-11T17:02:14.480-07:00

So my life isn't all about working out!I've secretly been working on a video game and I'm hoping you can help me test it out.Of course if this is your first time reading my blog then you probably won't do it. But, if you've been reading my blog for the past few years then you know me well enough to know that I wouldn't try to put a virus on your computer.Anyway, please download it...play it and

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1147172721416463982006-05-09T03:51:00.000-07:002006-05-09T04:12:08.700-07:00

I've finally bitten the bullet and taken my own advise.Rather than bitch and complain about my lack of progress I decided to dig up my copy of "The Action Hero Body" to help me formulate new routine.Although I was well into my routine for almost a year when I picked up the book I started at "Stage 2" because I still have more than 10 pounds of fat to lose before I reached my target weight.Because

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1146533314128467702006-05-01T18:16:00.000-07:002006-05-01T18:28:34.146-07:00

Suppliments are always a hot topic in any physical areana. Whether it's prohormones to achieve a hard body or propecia to grow hair, there's always going to be people who are telling you that you aren't good enough as you are.So how do you tell the difference? Where do your goals end and self-consciousness to to marketing propaganda begin?I had a conversation today with a friend of mine. I

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1145794287921420272006-04-23T04:53:00.000-07:002006-04-25T04:15:04.306-07:00

A few people have asked me recently about motivation. After you finally recognize that you need to change. You realize that you want to eat right and get the right exercise (or make any other significant change in your life) How do you stay with it? How do you stay motivated?For me, the truth sparked while watching a commercial for the video game.The tag line for the commercial was "For every

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1145273522567562602006-04-17T04:24:00.000-07:002006-04-17T04:33:09.586-07:00

So I've again recorded my workout so that I can better assess my form. The cool thing about doing this every once in a while is that you can learn to get more out of your workouts. Although, unlike having a trainer, nobody can tell me I'm doing it wrong. I have to figure that out for myself.The other great thing about shooting my session is that I ended up with some pretty great photos. On a

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1145074906046002622006-04-14T20:55:00.000-07:002006-04-14T21:39:13.046-07:00

It was exactly 1 year ago as I write this post that I took my last look at my beautiful daughter. It was the last time I kissed her soft newborn skin that I can still smell if I close my eyes.My baby girl Ava had just been born a few hours earlier at 2:11 PM and it was a few hectic moments following that I was to learn that my daughter would not survive her birthday.Today, my wife and I released

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1144668660518896202006-04-10T04:25:00.000-07:002006-04-10T18:58:53.040-07:00

I know I had a very hard time deciding to eat right (see previous post). Learning how to eat right was another difficult challenge.There's a lot of people who can't seem to lose fat no matter what they do. Also, there's a lot of people who are quite muscular but it's hidden under fat! No matter how much they seem to hit the weights they can never get that body they've been looking for.I've

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1144285523152082412006-04-05T17:46:00.000-07:002006-04-05T18:05:23.170-07:00

Christi commented on my last post that she thinks she could keep it up if only she could get started!Let me tell you, getting started for me was much harder than sticking to it.Before, when I was in my "getting fat and loving it" stage, I would watch my wife doing sit-ups and push-ups in our apartment living room on, an almost, daily basis.Sometimes she would invite me to join her which I would

Marknoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1143901582684230952006-04-01T06:17:00.000-08:002006-04-01T07:06:21.606-08:00

Want to hear some great news? I finally got down to 16.4% body fat this week. That means I must lose only 11 lbs of fat in order to reach my target of 10% body fat.I'm so excited about that really. When I reached my goal of 160 lbs I have to admit I was pretty disappointed. Yes, I think look muscular enough however I thought I still looked pretty chunky in the midsection.It's only been the past

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1143322305993896352006-03-25T13:27:00.000-08:002006-03-25T13:31:46.013-08:00

I know I haven't been posting much lately. My wife had a miscarriage a few weeks ago. It's been a tough go as this was our first attempt at another pregancy after our daughter passed away in April last year.Although I've kept my routine going it as simply felt cheap to write about something ultimately so trivial during this winter of discontent.Been trying to focus on chest lately.Oh, my wife

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1141130157533515532006-02-28T04:26:00.000-08:002006-02-28T04:35:57.550-08:00

I really like my blog. It allows me to write about my fitness routine and see how people from across the world react to my physical change in appearance.I'm still pissed that my abs don't show yet!!Oh well...still a work in progress...One thing having this blog has taught me (just based on the google searches that find me) is that pretty much everyone in the world is insecure about

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1140784276595513612006-02-24T04:24:00.000-08:002006-02-24T04:31:16.616-08:00

It's so easy to get caught up in hype.There is simply way too much hype about every product on the market.This product makes you cut, this product with make you big, this product will do this...this product will do that.The key issue I see in the suppliment market is that nobody is required to actually provide proof that the products do what they say they do. Fortunately in Canada it is against

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1140698122742375842006-02-23T04:28:00.000-08:002006-02-23T04:35:22.760-08:00

So happy to report that I've been back at it this week.I started feeling better last Friday so when Saturday rolled around I was so game to get back to it that I did a really thorough workout. How I missed it.No new pictures this week except for these few.My lovely wife Karla, my cousin Tina and I all attended an NHL game between the Leafs and the Rangers.Needless to say, Toronto lost...but I had

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1140062776400644592006-02-15T20:04:00.000-08:002006-02-15T20:06:16.416-08:00

Hey everyone...I'm still here. Just have a bad cold that pretty much grounded my workout routine for about half a week now.Lots of vitamin C and rest! I'm hoping to be back at it soon. I'm missing the burn!!

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1139272352963600102006-02-06T16:25:00.000-08:002006-02-18T07:05:35.363-08:00

I've talked a LOT about measuring success. How do you define good and how to do measure your own results when, really, strength training and muscle building is a more a competition of the mind.Big Realization of the week: Realized I have "above average" biceps. Average male bicep is 12.6 inches in circumference.This never occurred to me until I had a hard time fitting my arm into the free Blood

Marknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1138546826591467372006-01-29T06:56:00.000-08:002006-01-29T07:00:26.616-08:00

Part of my nutrition plan gives me to days where I double my caloric intake. On days like this my wife and I enjoy eating a very delicious homemade (whole wheat low oil) pizza.I grill up a chicken breast and throw on some pepperoni and lots of sauce and a reasonable covering of cheese.I LOVE IT.

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1138153081407263292006-01-24T17:18:00.000-08:002006-01-24T17:38:01.426-08:00

Quick Workout Update: It's not every day your wife says "Hey, your arms are getting really big." I LOVE IT. I love that and the few women I've caught checking me out on the train. I was explaining to a good friend of mine that health benefits aside, I exercise for vanity.Newest pain in my ass: I know I'm building muscle and all of that good stuff but my biceps have been the same size for

Marknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1137354694713747372006-01-15T11:33:00.000-08:002006-01-15T12:11:39.263-08:00

Its so hard to think back to what I was doing a year ago today. I had probably just completed my very first workout on my Bowflex.I had purchased the Bowflex as a gift to myself so that I might give myself another gift in a year. That gift was to be good health and (what I hoped) would be a smokin' hot bod.So now I think it's time to pat myself on the back. I think I'm looking pretty good. I'm

Marknoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1136549129547122992006-01-06T03:46:00.000-08:002006-01-06T04:05:29.563-08:00

Still going strong coming back from the holiday season. I'm keeping my regular strength training routine going on Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday and running 3 other days a week. I'm happy that after a year I still find this very fun. Some people may wonder how hurting yourself by tearing your muscles up is fun but it is. Sticking to an exercise regimen is not difficult if you make it

Marknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1136125411767552922006-01-01T06:02:00.000-08:002006-01-01T06:32:56.100-08:00

This is the first year that I can remember that I don't have a New Year's Resolution to get in shape.To me, that's a big accomplishment in and of itself.On a personal note:Ringing in the new year was a lot harder than I exepected. I don't think either my wife, Karla, or I were expecting it but as the 10 second count down started we both began crying. It errupted in a torrent of tears and emotions

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1135944109429461042005-12-30T03:42:00.000-08:002005-12-30T04:01:49.446-08:00

It is SO important to keep perspective.In my last post I complained that I had gained a few pounds over Christmas taking me back up to 165lbs. I was pretty disappointed about this.Then, it occurred to me that I was making a mistake. Yes, I had gained some weight on the scale but, as I normally do, I hadn't compared against my body fat % using my highly technical "Fat Grab-O-Meter"This makes a

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1135790591083392462005-12-28T09:20:00.000-08:002005-12-28T09:23:11.096-08:00

So I screwed up....I gave myself permission to eat whatever I wanted over Christmas and now I'm pissed off about it.I guess 1 week on business, 1 week on holidays followed by 5 days of eating holiday treats and more alcohol then I could ever want has left me with a Christmas gift I didn't need...5 extra pounds.I know it's not a huge deal to lose it again but I feel very down about it. Because I

Marknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1135429468297341962005-12-24T04:53:00.000-08:002005-12-24T05:04:28.316-08:00

This photo was taken approximately 50 weeks ago.I used to have a webcast called "Live Inside Daemon Cain's Brain" where I would take questions from the blogosphere.You can clearly see there is no fitness equipment behind the chesterfield. No Bowflex, no free weights.Know what you can see? A Fat Daemon Cain! Sadly I don't even need to have my shirt off in the picture below to see the McBelly and

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1135079531725128702005-12-20T03:30:00.000-08:002005-12-20T03:53:30.403-08:00

I'm generally a bit more apprehensive about using hotel gyms. First off because of bacteria and the thought of laying on the same equipment that someone else just sweated on grosses me out a bit. But also because I still don't quite feel all that comfortable in my new skin yet.I was relieved to see that when I started working out in the gym that a few people seemed to be looking at what I was

Marknoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1134952482446431272005-12-18T16:30:00.000-08:002005-12-18T16:34:42.460-08:00

Back from a wonderful week of excess. Lots of sun, lots of fun lots of waves and beer.Got crispy, red and greesy so like bacon I'm done!As promised, I worked out almost every day. Either did 30-40 minutes of cardio (either on the Resort treadmill or by running around the grounds) or I did weights.Came back without gaining a single pound. Not too shabby!!

Marknoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1134221167432168862005-12-10T05:16:00.000-08:002005-12-10T05:36:35.690-08:00

It's blurry but for some reason it looked really cool to me.More slender each week. More definition appears.Weight: 160lbsBody Fat Percentage: 18.1%Lean Body Mass: 131.04 lbsBody Fat Target: 10%Still need to lose to reach target: 14.4 lbs of fat

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1134215214486223232005-12-10T03:32:00.000-08:002005-12-10T03:46:54.503-08:00

I've been finding it way more difficult sticking to the 1500 calories a day this past week.This is the first time since starting the Action Hery Body plan that I've been on a business trip to the US. When you don't have a fridge and stove to cook yourself you're stuck ordering out and the very limited supply of restaurants in downtown Wilmington Delaware makes it challenging to find a nutritious

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1133875694077731052005-12-06T05:14:00.000-08:002005-12-06T05:28:14.093-08:00

Like most blogs I get a lot of hits from people's google searches. So I thought I'd answer some of the things that people have come to my site for but probably not found the answer to.A lot of people find my site looking for how to perform exercises.I get a lot of hits for tricep extensions, various pull down exercises etc...When I see the name of an exercise I don't know I go to the ExRx Muscle

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1133438548483075642005-12-01T03:30:00.000-08:002005-12-01T04:03:50.013-08:00

Settings goals is no small piece of the puzzle when it comes to building a healthy body.Keeping motivated by those goals is another. Your goals are so critical because they not only keep you motivated for your workouts but also help you when you're standing with the refrigerator door open wondering what to feed you body.If your goals are not enough to keep you motivated to keep working out and to

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1133097932263311732005-11-27T05:19:00.000-08:002005-11-27T06:07:21.030-08:00

I finally reached my original target! Back in January of 2005 when I fully committed myself to getting the body I want I set a mental goal of building muscle and getting my weight under control.I'm pleased to say that I've finally reached my goal of getting down to 160 lbs.During the past 45 weeks I've burned about 55 pounds of fat off my body and gained about 20 pounds of hard earned muscle.As

Marknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1133017115191813632005-11-26T06:51:00.000-08:002005-11-26T06:58:35.193-08:00

Can't find anything to give that special lady friend of yours this year?May I suggest "Bowes and Cocks"

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1132832857193875722005-11-24T03:34:00.000-08:002005-11-24T03:53:53.456-08:00

I woke up this morning to the sound of the neighbours plowing their driveways with their motorized snow throwers.I knew right then and there that I was in for one of those mornings that I never really like...when I have to get up early to shovel snow.I got dressed, found my winter jacket and scarf, pulled on my tuque (hyperlinked for my non-Canadian friends who have no idea what a tuque is) and

Marknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1132747139527949442005-11-23T03:35:00.000-08:002005-11-23T03:58:59.546-08:00

I drove past a McDonald's burger joint yesterday and I noticed that very familiar tag line "Over 89 Billion Served".I immediately leaned over to my wife and said "I know what my next post is going to be about. I'm going to estimate how many pounds everyone in the world has gained by eating at McDonald's 89 Billion times."The meal that I chose to base my number on consists of the following:-1

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1132314943331699132005-11-18T03:43:00.000-08:002005-11-18T03:55:43.346-08:00

I was using my fat callipers to measure my body fay % when I realized I had been reading it incorrectly the entire time I've use it. Although my numbers remain in the same range I've officially gotten past the 20% mark and now sit at 19.6% body fat (rather than 22 as I had reported the other day).Still haven't figured out how to earn a living off of this yet. I was flattered the other day when a

Marknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1132141890168050482005-11-16T03:37:00.000-08:002005-11-16T03:52:37.386-08:00

I'm mid-week into the 3rd week of the Action Hero Body (Stage 2) plan.Finished my leg workout last night. I don't have a bar so I'm doing my squats with dumbells and I have to admit my legs are a lot stronger than my arms. I think I may just need to invest in the actual bar soon. I find the squats are more for my shoulders than my legs.Found out that a guy at work seems to be as into working out

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1132055683661174592005-11-15T03:34:00.000-08:002005-11-15T03:54:43.680-08:00

Happy to report that I'm still at 165 lbs however my body fat % is down to 22%. That means since eating heathier over the past 3 weeks I've lost about 8 to 9 pounds in fat and gained about 3 to 4 pounds in lean muscle.I knew I was seeing pretty dramatic changes but I'm pretty impressed. My goal of 10% body fat so I look really cut is still about 22 pounds of fat away though. I'm guessing when

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1131914757084093082005-11-13T12:34:00.000-08:002005-11-13T12:57:44.953-08:00

Normally I'm posing in the mirror when I post my pics. I decided to try something different. I recorded my workout and I'm posting "live action" pics. Well and a few posing just for fun because that's a normal part of my workout too. Note the mirror behind the Bowflex so I can watch my form. These pics aren't nearly as polished as my regular ones and are much more natural.Oh thanks to both ~d~

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1131710291107807532005-11-11T03:48:00.000-08:002005-11-11T03:58:11.126-08:00

Had a big challenge this week. I had a client in town and I needed to take him out for lunch twice.On day 1 we went to East Side Mario's for lunch. I ended up eating Chicken Parm on a bun with a Ginger Ale. It came with fries but I only ate a few. Not really a healthy lunch at all.I did better yesterday though. We went to Jack Astor's where I had a grilled chicken (asked them to hold the

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1131450559955854342005-11-08T03:38:00.000-08:002005-11-08T03:49:19.973-08:00

I'm completely addicted to working out now. I often times which I could call in sick to work so I could work out instead. I'd rather work on my my triceps then on deal with a client.I'm trying to figure out what happens next. How can I start earning a living off of something I've grown so passionate about? I don't know that yet but I hope to figure it out.

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1131018738060515782005-11-03T03:36:00.000-08:002005-11-03T03:52:18.086-08:00

Weight:I don't know about you but my morning and evening weight used to vary drastically. Some mornings I would weight more than in the evening (depending on what I ate for dinner the night before). Sometimes I would weigh up to 5 pounds less in the morning than in the evening.I've noticed that since eliminating virtually all refined carbs (choosing whole wheat and whole grain instead) my weight

Marknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1130846143231441302005-11-01T03:43:00.000-08:002005-11-01T03:55:43.246-08:00

I did the first day "Stage 2" workout from my new book "Action Hero Body" on Sunday. Although completely doable it was a longer workout and it was intense. I felt very drained yesterday. I made sure to get a good full night's sleep. Today I'm going to be doing the "Day 2" workout which focuses on legs.Since I was Halloween yesterday I ate more than normal. I made sure to choose healthier

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1130677102450348302005-10-30T04:52:00.000-08:002005-10-30T05:18:25.046-08:00

I'm bitting the bullet and going out to buy some additional fitness equipment today. To supplement what my Bowflex is missing or is weak I'm getting a Deluxe E-Z Kurl Bar and a set of dumbells as well as various plates. Going to check out Play It Again Sports first thing this morning to see if they have what I need as far as plates go and then run over to Canadian Tire to buy the rest.The 1,500

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1130497923475628232005-10-28T03:57:00.000-07:002005-10-28T04:12:03.490-07:00

I dont' know about you but I think I'm looking pretty damn good.My goal has been simple...eat right, train right and sleep right. And based on my results so far I'm very happy. I've stayed at a consistent weight (which varies slightly) from 165 to 170 pounds and during that time I've been getting more lean and lowering my body fat percentage. I'm currently sitting at 25% body fat. I'm not so

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1129805996305054912005-10-20T03:51:00.000-07:002005-10-20T04:13:47.673-07:00

Its not always easy getting pictures to post. I take them myself standing in a mirror so I can't use a flash. About 50% of my pictures are too blurry to use.My biceps and triceps are much better than before although in my original vanity shots my arms were much fattier so by appearance there isn't a huge difference. You can "feel" it though. Also my shoulders and forearms are both significantly

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1129288306661458632005-10-14T04:00:00.000-07:002005-10-14T04:11:46.683-07:00

I got off my lazy ass and when to the mall last night to buy some new work clothes. I've bought new workOUT clothes and some new weekend wear but, until yesterday, I hadn't actually purchased any new officewear. Believe it or not even my SHOES are too big for me now. Sort of like when I post new vanity shots...it's amazing just how many new ways you end up surprising yourself. The pant legs need

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1129029108262916262005-10-11T03:56:00.000-07:002005-10-11T04:11:48.276-07:00

I've read a lot of debate on the limitations of resistance machines against the "weight" counterparts. I'm a big fan of the Bowflex however I do have some problems with my model. Specifically the resistance limitation of 210 pounds. On approximately 40% of my exercises I'm maxing out my Bowflex. I wrote Nautilus to ask what I could do and, although very supportive about it all, they could only

Marknoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1127731815631125482005-09-26T03:32:00.000-07:002005-09-26T03:57:38.686-07:00

I wrote a few weeks about the challenges in measuring success while strength training. For months I had been weighing the same. No gains or losses according to the weigh scale. I "though" I was looking better but since I hadn't been mearing my size all over how would I know?I decided the best way to measure my success is abviously not by looking at the weigh scale. For 15 bucks I went out and

Marknoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1127696405982565542005-09-25T17:51:00.000-07:002005-09-25T18:00:06.000-07:00

It came to my attention that I officially got off my fat ass one year ago and got on a treadmill. A few months later I got into strength training.Every time I take these shots I can hardly believe I'm looking at myself in the mirror. Talk about an exciting thing when you look at the reflection in the glass and you actually like what you see staring back. Not only that but you can hardly believe

Marknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1127125441318575882005-09-19T03:12:00.000-07:002005-09-19T04:08:21.770-07:00

I hate experts.If I had listened to experts on how I should work out then I don't think I ever would have started. I know that if I had read some of the comments on the Body Building forums before buying my Bowflex that I would have never bought anything. I also know that a lot of times (unless you know them personally) experts are selling something. I've been trying really hard to figure this

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1126697150050585442005-09-14T04:20:00.000-07:002005-09-14T04:25:50.056-07:00

Let's face it, we've all eaten at McDonald's or Burger King or some other fast food joint. Although it may taste ok it is simply not nutritious at all. In fact, it's bad for you.I recently heard about the "McDonald's Diet" where people eat exclusively at McDonald's to lose weight (I guess they needed to do something after Jared lost weight at Subway and following the Super Size Me documentary).

Marknoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1126521827016356902005-09-12T03:27:00.000-07:002005-09-12T03:45:01.373-07:00

I've been feeling kind of down lately about my whole workout routine.I look at the changes in my body and I like what I see but let me be as candid as possible.Yes I've made HUGE progress. I'm more slim and I've built more muscle. In fact I ran about 10.5 K yesterday for and beat my wife for the first time. That felt like an accomplishment.I guess that's the thing I've been struggling with

Marknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1126004035115666322005-09-06T03:42:00.000-07:002005-09-06T03:53:55.130-07:00

I'm very proud to post that I ran 10K (that's 6.21 miles) on Sunday for the first time.My wife and I are still training for the Stephen McClatchey 10th Anniversary Memorial Run so I knew, sooner or later, I'd have to actually run 10K.We've been working up to it weekly. It started with 5K, then 7K then 8K to our 10K on Sunday. I wish I could say I "ran" the whole way. Sadly I did not. My

Marknoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1124707825581466342005-08-22T03:31:00.000-07:002005-08-22T03:59:18.616-07:00

When I first assembed my Bowflex I realized that I wanted to do a chin up on what's referred to as the "Lat Tower".On January 16th, 2005 I tried one chip up and completely failed. I never tried again because, really, I was a bit heavier and I didn't want to damage my equipment even before I really got the chance to use it and get in shape.Over time I completely forgot that I had wanted to do a

Marknoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1124448278389201022005-08-19T03:30:00.000-07:002005-08-19T03:44:38.426-07:00

My wife and I were talking last night. She mentioned that it was about a year ago that we got our treadmill and I noted it was about 7 months since I started my strength training routine.My wife recently hurt her ankle while training for our 10k run in September so to keep her moving I've helped her assemble her own strength training schedule. She has had a lot of questions and is looking to me

Marknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1123497492749103042005-08-08T03:33:00.000-07:002005-08-08T03:56:22.106-07:00

Even while away on business I do make sure I get at least 30 minutes a day in the gym. They have a much better treadmill than I have at home so its a lot of fun to use theirs.They also have a universal weight set. The kind where you change the weight using a pin that locks into place. The pulleys and cables pull of the weight and lift it in place.I actually found this difficult much less

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1122340210325505602005-07-25T18:08:00.000-07:002005-07-25T18:39:34.120-07:00

This September I will be participating in the Stephen McClatchey 10th Anniversary Memorial Run. I'm doing this in memory of my daughter Ava who passed away shortly after her birth on April 14th, 2005.This run is to raise money for the PBSO (Perinatal Bereavement Services Ontario). A charity that supports families who have experienced, essencially, any type of death or loss of a child (whether it

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1121912973448696642005-07-20T19:28:00.000-07:002006-01-25T04:37:32.123-08:00

I get so many people who want to see before and after pictures from my Bowflex that I've dedicated this post to that.In case you're new to the blog let me first post my before shot.Yup, that's me in all of my glory during my honeymoon with my beautiful wife. I thought I was hot shit (I had a tan after all)!Then, I took my first "Before and After" pictures on Week 9...On week 17 I took some more

Marknoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1121685714647014582005-07-18T04:20:00.000-07:002005-08-13T08:58:07.526-07:00

So I'm at week whatever now in my training.I've noticed that I'm doing cardio less and less and focusing more on weight/resistance training.This was very evident last night when my wife kicked my ass while running. I just didn't seem to have the endurance I had only months ago. If you aren't living in the Toronto area then you don't know how hot it's been here. Just CRAZY.No I'm not staring in an

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1120783220954067752005-07-07T17:17:00.000-07:002005-07-07T17:40:20.970-07:00

So I finally did the unthinkable. I went to a GYM.Yes...me...Mister "I'll never go to a gym" went to a gym.I remember not that long ago thoughts of going to a gym were pretty intimidating. A gym isn't a place were unfit people go...it's place where FIT people go!! (or so I thought). I remember saying to my wife that buying the equipment was way better than a gym because I would use it. I would

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1120140200089023712005-06-30T06:49:00.000-07:002005-07-16T05:16:16.410-07:00

Everyone knows that time spent unwinding and relaxing is essencial. There should be a law though that says everyone gets a holiday after coming back from vacation. I am SO tired. I think I slept over 12 hours last night. Usually I only sleep about 6-7 hours.Anyway, like a good holiday should, I enjoyed lots of great food and great beer and great salty snacks so I thought I'd share my "after

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1118918061643981142005-06-16T03:08:00.000-07:002005-06-16T03:38:28.756-07:00

5 months ago yesterday was the anniversary of me assembling my bowflex and adding resistance training to my daily workout routine. It also marks (about) 8 months since I started eating well and doing daily cardio (either on my treadmill, on my bike or outside for an old fashioned jog).I've recently gained about 5 pounds again over the past few weeks even though I'm eating the same and working out

Marknoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1117373870961213032005-05-29T06:17:00.000-07:002005-05-29T06:38:45.806-07:00

Friday ended up sucking more than I had hoped. After the incident with the lady from the Children's Charity downtown I was really looking forward to getting home.One stop away from my Ajax train stop, the conductor comes on the speaker letting us know that my station is closed due to a gas leak so everyone needs to get off in Pickering and buses will be provided. Wonderful, I think to myself, 1

Marknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1116973968244845642005-05-24T15:25:00.000-07:002005-05-24T15:34:44.546-07:00

Not too much new to report on the fitness front this week.I did finally go out and get some casual clothes for the summer. I was concerned I wouldn't yet fit into a 34 pant and would be disappointed.Low and behold I got myself a 32 inch waist pant.Now, I didn't realize what a controversial issue taking Creatine was. I just happened to read about it on Men's Health and decided to go pick some

Marknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1116473124292346852005-05-18T19:55:00.000-07:002005-05-18T20:25:24.296-07:00

Ok here's the truth...my clothes are actually officially falling off my body.Since I started working out in January I haven't bought any new pants or shirts not knowing what my body will be like in the weeks to come I've been reluctant to spend money on "in between" clothes but this is getting rediculous.Now, my good work pants AND belt can be pulled completely off without untying anything. YES

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1115568627657643542005-05-08T09:06:00.000-07:002005-07-16T05:14:26.160-07:00

Been many weeks since I posted progress pictures.A buddy of mine complained last time that I didn't show any full body shots so I've added 2 of them.Check it out!!

Marknoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1115290703036427342005-05-05T03:50:00.000-07:002005-05-05T03:58:23.043-07:00

Been a few weeks since I posted a status update.I've modified my routine slightly.I used to do my resistance training one day, followed by treadmill the next. This was supposed to allow for healing while still getting the necessary amount of cardio in.Now that I bike for 30 minutes every day (even on bowflex days) I only do treadmill every other off day. Downside to the biking? My legs still

Marknoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1114926404121501452005-04-30T22:38:00.000-07:002005-04-30T22:46:44.123-07:00

You may recall in the past I've talked about my reasons for wanting to get into shape.My primary reason was so that I wanted to be able to set a good example for my daughter after she was worn. I made a promise to myself and to her that she would not be born with a "fat dad".You may have also noticed I've been abscent from posting for a while...My daughter was born on April 14th 2005.It was on

Marknoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1113475524684534712005-04-14T03:37:00.000-07:002005-04-14T03:45:24.686-07:00

I've talked about it several times. I do love my Bowflex!!I don't think there's anything inherently special about it really. It's a workout machine like so many other workout machines.If there's a difference, to me, it's their advertising. I find it helps keep me motivated!! You can buy a lot of exercise equipment and it's up to you to keep using it (like my treadmill which although I

Marknoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11748245.post-1113217686796851982005-04-11T04:00:00.000-07:002005-04-11T04:08:06.796-07:00

It's really surprising to me how quickly my body has begun changing shape. It's only been about 12 weeks since I started using the bowflex and, low and behold, I need a belt for every pair of pants I own!It wasn't that long ago, I recall, these same pants were getting tighter.So far, almost 3 inches on my wasteline have fallen off. Which is astonishing to me. I really didn't expect that to

Marknoreply@blogger.com5