My Journey to Working Out and Weight Loss: A Lifestyle of Health and Fitness

Weight loss has never been an issue of struggle for me. Growing up, family dinners were staples, and homemade cooking was the norm. Pizza and Kentucky Fried Chicken were absent from our dinner table. My mother, a skilled cook, taught me how to dissect a chicken in minutes. This skill she humorously claimed was a proven method of catching a man.

Early Habits and Martial Arts

As the years passed, fast food slowly became a part of my diet, but I remained active. Exercise became a soothing activity, helping me clear my mind. I even joined a Kung Fu class, not just for the physical benefits but also for the social interaction and the sheer enjoyment of the art. Martial arts emphasize the importance of stretching, and after an hour of stretching, I could bend my body into a pretzel shape if I wanted. This method of staying in shape was effective and enjoyable.

Unfortunately, the rising cost of the class forced me to drop out. However, I found myself a workout partner on YouTube. Discovering Billy Blanks’ TAE BO channel was a game-changer. Each workout left me drenched in sweat, and I quickly fell in love with the routine.

The Impact of Free Food and Cancer Diagnosis

Despite my active lifestyle, years of free food at work led to weight gain. Chicken wings, French fries, and mac & cheese were regular indulgences, increasing my weight by 10 to 15 pounds.

A cancer diagnosis was a wake-up call, making me realize my unhealthy eating habits. Determined to change, I began bringing lunch to work to control my carb intake. I also started running 2 to 3 miles during the week. This was the healthiest I had ever been.

A commitment to health and fitness

Twelve years have passed since my cancer diagnosis, and I now workout daily and eat healthily. While I do allow myself the occasional cheat day—after all, nobody's perfect—maintaining a healthy lifestyle has become a priority. As I age, I recognize the significant role weight plays in overall health, particularly bone density and longevity. Using leg weights helps me maintain a strong foundation.

The Challenge of sugar

One of my biggest weaknesses is sugar. I try to avoid sugary treats, believing sugar ages you and contributes to cancer. Instead, I find natural sugars in fruits and vegetables, which satisfy my sweet tooth without negative health impacts.

Embrace a healthy lifestyle

Eating healthy and working out is more than just a routine; it's a lifestyle anyone can adopt. The key is to find activities you enjoy and make mindful food choices. It’s about balance and consistency rather than perfection.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle has been a journey, filled with challenges and learning experiences. From family dinners to martial arts, from YouTube workouts to managing a cancer diagnosis, each step contributes to a holistic approach to health and fitness. Anyone can embark on this journey, and the rewards are worth the effort.

 



 

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