March 2, 2012: 2 Weeks Out!

In two weeks I will step on stage with my fellow competitors. The competition will take only a fraction of the time spent preparing. The hours (and hours, and hours) spent in the gym lifting, the countless miles of cardio, the will power to eat squeaky clean, the constant measuring of body fat and inches, the hours spent getting the pose just right, and everything else will come down to less than 5 minutes of stage time.

Training in February wasn't all that hard, but it was time consuming. Don't get me wrong there were days I could barely move but that, I'm used too. I put in 172 miles of cardio either running, biking or crossramp in addition to weight training. February's diet was super clean and easy to follow. Oatmeal, egg whites, fresh berries, fresh veggies and proteins. I tried to follow some simple rules... like, no carbs (unless from veggies) after noon and no late night eating and no empty calories.

I think the last two weeks is the easiest, but others will probably disagree. Since I spent the last month cutting I don't have much to lose these last two weeks. Now I could kill myself at the gym, but the reality is my body won't change much in two weeks. So, now I just stick to a nice clean diet and start my water manipulation.

Special Guest Blogger!!

Hey!! So, I was recently asked to post a guest blog and after reviewing the article have decided that the information is important and should be passed along. Cancer has become part of our daily lives. If not personally, then through association. Now, more than ever it is important to take care of ourselves and each other.

The article is as follows....

Cancer Fitness Programs- Support For The Body And Mind
BY: DAVID HAAS

According to the National Cancer Institute, nearly 12 million Americans live with cancer. This includes men, women, and children who were recently diagnosed with the disease, those who are going through cancer treatment programs, and those who are experiencing a remission period.

A cancer diagnosis is one of the most difficult things in life. Battling the symptoms of such a devastating illness -- and the side effects of its aggressive treatment -- stresses the body and the mind. Cancer patients experience immense feelings of physical illness, mental tiredness, and emotional defeat.

Interestingly, despite most lines of thinking, exercise can help.

Years ago, family physicians and cancer doctors advised their patients to take things easy and get plenty of rest. They discouraged exercise and athletic activity by people with cancer. Thanks to decades of research, doctors now recommend fitness programs to their patients.

Support For The Body And Mind The National Cancer Institute advocates exercise for physical and psychological well-bein [http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/prevention/physical activity]. Physical exercise has a direct relationship with physical health. It boosts energy levels to combat cancer fatigue. And, while it cannot cure cancer, it may actually increase survival rate and lower recurrence risk.

Physical exercise also raises the body’s level of endorphins, natural “feel good” chemicals in the brain. Endorphins resemble opiates in their ability to relieve pain and enhance mood. This is valuable for cancer patients who struggle with physical pain as well as lowered self-esteem.

Almost any patient can engage in physical activity, but fitness programs are best when they are individualized for a particular cancer type, stage, and treatment. A woman whose biopsy is positive for breast cancer, for example, should ask her specialist about appropriate exercises. For example, A man with asbestos cancer should talk to his mesothelioma doctor about suitable activity for his condition.

Exercise Variety Helps All Cancer Patients

National guidelines recommend 30 minutes of exercise, five days a week. The best programs include aerobic exercise, flexibility movements, and strength training. Not everyone can participate in every type of exercise, however. Doctors often refer their patients to occupational therapists, fitness trainers, or other professionals for customized fitness plans.

Stretching, walking, and gentle movements like yoga or Pilates are suitable for most cancer patients, from people with common skin cancer to rare mesothelioma. Others can participate in more vigorous activities, like running, jogging, weight training, fitness classes, and team sports.

Variety is important in cancer fitness programs, since patients can experience different levels of health or fatigue on a daily basis. Regular physical activity is central to physical health and emotional well-being, and variety can help patients remain physically active throughout their cancer experience.

Sorry This Took So Long!

Hey Guys & Gals,

Sorry I haven't updated in awhile. Moving back to the states has taken it's toll on my time and energy. I am finally feeling more settled in, but still not on a regular schedule which is frustrating. This weekend I was suppose to compete in L.A. at the Ironman Fitness Expo, but due to lack of prep time and injuries I am unable to attend. Next competition I'm aiming for is the Armed Forces Pro Qualifier in San Diego in March. I've been working with a coach on my posing and I feel with practice of course I'll be ready to make a great showing in March.

Currently I have only been working out about 3-4 days a week, weight training and limited cardio. I am maintaining around 14% body fat during this off season. My personal goal for the next competition is a 6-pk and more defined legs=) Will try to post some pics soon!! All is well in San Diego and the wonderful healthy foods available make staying on diet super easy!!

Thanks for following.