Celebrate every win

Yesterday we resurrected a family tradition of having an annual bonfire at Corona Del Mar. A full day of sun, fun, food, and family was had. 

What was a personal win for me may seem simple and weird to most folks. I'm pretty self conscious when it comes to my body image. Ok maybe it's not weird to most folks but for a while, I didn't like being shirtless or wearing fitted shirts. Just never felt comfortable in my own skin. 

While I've worked out over the last few years, this year is the first time I've been truly dedicated to reaching my fitness goals. I've invested time and resources into my routines and I think they are finally paying off. 

For the first summer since I was a kid, I proudly was able to sport the tank. Every day life to most folks but to me it was quite liberating to just wear it and not think about it. 

Now at the annual beach and and bonfire, I was able to be shirtless at the beach and wear size 32 board shorts. 

Double win!!

My body isn't where I want it to be but it's slowly getting there. I'd like to grow my chest more and get rid of more fat around my mid section (just love food so much). Hopefully the beach took care of my farmer's tan too!

It's amazing seeing the progress I've made this year. I'm proud to say that I feel my goal of a great body is closer to being realized. 

You can achieve whatever you want so long as you are dedicated and put in hard work. You can get there!

End of the first pump week

Yesterday was the end of the first pump week. Man, I had forgotten how redic the schedule is for just three days in the gym.  Low weight, high reps (15-30), and 4-5 sets. 

Have to admit that it felt great each day it was over but I was completely wiped. Glad tomorrow is the family beach bonfire cause I plan on just sleeping. 

Still... Cardio and core work every day that I'm not lifting :) 

Check out the pics... I think there is some progress. 

       

Pump day #2

It's all legs all high rep pump.

I want to cry!!

Yup

End of the heavy phase... Finally.

It's the end of the workout program... Again. I never really get through it for a variety of reasons:

1. Years ago I wasn't dedicated and

2. This year I modified it it cause of my stress fracture

Now that I'm pretty much fully functional (minus the running), I'm determined to complete it. 

Last Saturday ended the first phase (heavy) of the program. I'm currently doing the pump week prior to starting the next phase but you can see the results below. 

Not too shabby huh? Yes one day my chest will respond and yes, I'll fix the farmers tan. 

       

There is no shame in failure. For a warrior the only shame is not trying. 

On Combat: The Psychology of Deadly Conflict - Dave Grossman