I’m probably (most definitely) not alone. It’s probably not unexpected and in the grand scheme of things it probably isn’t the end of the world, but I probably shouldn’t have so confidently proclaimed to the world, in Movember, that I would shed 20 lbs before the end of 2012.
I almost got there. Up until last week that was, up until I ditched my daily runs, my healthy eating and every ounce of self respect I had. Despite vowing not to let the festive period derail me, I didn’t even get that far.
You have probably guessed by my rant, that I slipped…big time. I’ve slipped before. I’ve slipped many times before. But I’ve always picked myself up, I’ve always managed to prevent any long lasting damage and I’ve always appreciated that it happens.
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| I’m aiming for a six pack, but currently sporting more of a keg |
But 12 lbs in two weeks is my greatest EVER gain (post transformation) and I was seriously in danger of undoing months of work. Chances are, given my normal slow carbohydrates intake, that a fair percentage of this is water but it still both deflates and inflates me. I’ve lost the same 10 lbs about 4 times in the past 6 months. For, you see, it’s time for a bit of honesty. To myself and to anyone who follows my posts.
I’m currently at the same weight as I was this time LAST year. Although I’m running further and a little faster (and easier) my body shape and weight hasn’t progressed. I’ve probably improved my endurance and I’ve possibly increased my leg muscles, but upper body strength and fitness have probably not improved much.
I could probably so easily say that 2012 has been a waste, that my fluctuating weight and lack of progress has derailed my goals, my ambition and my life.
But that’s probably a little unfair. 2012 has seen me complete my first 10km, my first triathlon, my first Half marathon, my first Tough Mudder and my first Spartan Beast. It’s been a year of firsts. But first and foremost, it’s also the year that I fell in love again. While my heart rate probably hasn’t improved much, my heart is beating strong. Yes, I’ve eaten too many refined sugars, but it’s been croissants in Paris, churros in Madrid, fudge in Edinburgh and scones in the Lake District with my lovely girlfriend, who loves me for who I am. My life is richer, happier and better. So, while I am disappointed in my weight, I am probably…no scratch that… I’m definitely the happiest I’ve ever been. You can’t always measure your life by the scale. Some aspects carry more weight (pardon, the pun) than others. But with a few Challenges ahead I need to address my free fall and get back on track. No point in waiting for January 1st.
So, here is the truth. My name is Stephen and I’m a sugar addict. Today is the first day, in a while, that I’ve went sugar free. It is going to be the first of many.