1999 was the year I decided to reclaim my body. I had a layer of body fat around my middle, on my hips, with pockets of fat and cellulite on other parts of my body. At 5 feet, 2 inches, and 139 lbs, I actually looked better than many of my peers. But I felt the extra fat and I was tired of hauling it around!
I also wanted to increase my strength, which means I wanted to build muscle. I wanted definition, so that when I look at my arms, I see triceps and biceps standing out from the smoothness of my skin.
I also needed an exercise plan. I thought I had found it with the "Body for Life" program. Unfortunately, I was underwhelmed with the results. I have lost more weight by accident in the past than I did on that program, and I followed it very closely. I kept a 12 week journal of that experience. I did gain muscle and there were other personal benefits from completing the commitment.
In October 18, 1999, I went on a food plan of my own creation, that consists of low fat foods, with plenty of "grazing" material that is low or no fat (vegetables, fruits) and cutting back on carbohydrates. Juicing is a staple of my diet. I also cut out meat. The book "Fit for Life", a common-sense approach to proper nutrition and food combining has turned out to be the missing key. !
I found the martial art, Hwar Do, in August of 1999, and took classes three times a week, and practiced daily at home, for many years. Hwar Do is a combination of the best of several martial arts disciplines: Taekwando, Judo, Hapkido, weapons training, to name a few.
In September of 2000 I passed my Black Belt test, and in 2002 I achieved my Second Degree Black Belt.
The most important lesson on my quest? Keep trying until you find what works for you!
