Just Getting Started Getting it Done

[catchfsh]

Hi I am a beginner at 39yrs , Got the message one day that it was time for a change, or consquences would be tough. So beginning Aug. 2004 I quit drinking, started eating healthy using SBD, began my own in home excercise program and as of today still going strong, but in need of advice to help start building up. I have a bow flex should I go to a gym for better results?
Personal trainers? How much usual $$ ?
Looking forward to chatting with you and to all best of the days.
lllllllllllll
(O>O) catch
___

[r8rrob]

Hey Catch:

You've shown some tremendous progress so far.

As for the bowflex vs. gym, I guess that would be your preference. I don't know many people who use a bowflex, but I prefer free weights. And I like the fact that I have to make myself GO to the gym. A lot of people are disciplined enough to work out at home, but I need to get my butt up and out of the house.

And personal trainers can be a great resource as well. They have a lot of knowledge and, again, for people who aren't self-motivated, having to pay for this service will make them more faithful to working out. Myself, I have two workout partners that keep me accountable.

Just keep reading all the great advice on these boards, eat right (and often), get your rest and lift like you mean it!

Rob

[SoMdHunter]

I need to go to the gym, other wise I am too lazy to do anything around the house. IF you do join, don't be in a big hurry to find a trainer. Most of the ones at my gym don't know curls from squat (pun intended) and charge too damn much anyway. You can learn alot just reading on your own and asking advice here. Just my .02 cents.

[jaguarr]

Welcome, catch. An AMAZING transformation! You don't even look like the same person. You now look like the SON of the guy in the first picture! Great job! As far as Bowflex vs. the gym, it really depends on your goals. I think Bowflex is a great tool for getting in generally decent condition and maintaining some good muscle tone and keeping trim. If you're wanting to really pack on muscle and start moving towards a bodybuilder type physique, there really is no substitute for free weights, IMHO. Good to have you here!

Cheers,
jag

[GREENFEATHER]

Bump to what the others have said. I had 2 Bowflexes, they got me off my lazy ass and back to working out. Now I have assembled quite a nice gym off Ebay. Nothing beats IRON!!

Good luck and good medicine

[catchfsh]

I am finding the past few days a bit shakey because I have been attending a prep-class and my brain has been on overload (ie) over training the brain muscle. I think once the storm clears and I pass my test I am going to make a trip to the gym and check it out. Right now I am working out alone and its not too motivating. Thank you all for your input and complements, I sure feel alot better about myself than when my only worry was who was making the trip to the store for another 12 pack!
Take care and best of days,
lllllllll
(O>O)
_ catch

[chiefhog]

Man, awesome job with your physique! All that dedication and hard work has paid off. I dont know you, but I truly am proud of your accomplishment. Keep it up!

[fitnessman]

So do you like to fish?

[catchfsh]

Well I managed to blow my lower back out doing a stupid move.........
Pull -ups with a knee to chest side to side twist. Guess I should have worked up to that one. I didn't realize it till the next day when all spasms broke out. So I am on break for a couple of more days.
Best of days all

[ChocoChick]

Rest up. Hope you feel better soon.

[catchfsh]

Back in action .on week 3 of gym. I hurt my back doing too much weight on crunch machine. Beginning to feel better with workout.

[joed]

Welcome Catch.

[never2late]

Great transformation -- very impressive indeed!

I agree with jag above that you now look like the son of the guy in your before pic.

Watch those injuries . . . remember that your "old self" is just a carelessly-executed rep away at all times!