The Phoenix Rises
Two years ago, I didn't know if I'd be alive today or not.
Two years ago, I was morbidly obese, depressed, and borderline suicidal. Part of me didn't know how long I would have to go on for. Part of me just didn't want to go on any longer.
Then I met my coach for the next two years, and we changed things. I became stronger, more athletic, and most importantly, happier. I started down the path to becoming the person I've always wanted to be. With the help of my "fitfam" I was able to turn a depressed, overweight guy into someone who was able to push through and achieve great things.
The event that marked the first phase was Camp Nerd Fitness where I learned a much broader concept of what fitness is, as well as how to better associate with people.
The second event, marking the end of Phase 2 was running the Rugged Maniac. It was a 5K obstacle race; a little easier than most, but still fairly difficult. It was a proud moment when I crossed the finish line and realized what I had achieved. I had finally reached a point where I could go a long distance, fight off obstacles, and come out the other side actually feeling great. I almost wanted to run it again that day. Almost.
Shortly after the race, I began the next chapter in my life. I moved to Richmond, Virginia. Chasing a new life, and new and loving relationships, it was time for a change. I did a lot in Connecticut, but a new chapter in my life also called for new scenery. I packed up all my possessions, hauled myself to another city where I only knew a handful of people, and began to make my new life for myself.
I found my gym. I found my coach. It was time to reset everything and push forward. While I had spent the last year doing powerlifting, I felt like I needed a change. It's not that it wasn't working for me, because I definitely saw some changes both from my strength as well as body composition, but I just wanted to something different for a little while.
Now I am working on body composition through hypertrophic workouts. Starting this week, I am refocusing my efforts on the nutrition front. New macros, new calories, and new efforts towards changing my body.
I decided to take new "progress" pictures. These represent my "new before" photos. I am focused on moving forward from here. I've documented in the past how I came from the 300s to where I am. Now I want to focus on transformation from this to the next phase of my body.
Work in progress, but I know with hard work and perseverance I can achieve my goals. Nothing can stop me, nothing will stop me. I have the image in my mind of what I want to achieve, and now I just need to make it happen.
