GoofyinOhio's Journal - Comments Welcomed

[goofyinohio]

Hi all! My name is Chris. Let me tell you first about my journey to this point. I was always the skinny guy in school. I weighed in between 160-170 pounds in high school and I'm 6 foot. I played Sports and was always active and even went to college to play basketball (Which didn't work out.) After school I began to put on the pounds. Mainly because I was inactive, was partying way too much and honestly fell into depression where all I did was eat. At this point in early 1997 I weighed in at 230 or so. In 1999 I got married and my wife had our first child so things were good, but my weight continued to grow. In early 2001 I was weighing in at 270 and knew we were going to Disney and I knew had to lose some weight. I lost 40 pounds that summer and got back to 230 (This is a number I wouldn't see again for 5-6 years.) After that vacation I started doing the yo-yo thing. In the winter I'd get back up to 270-280 and then drop down to 240 in time for vacation. So not healthy and so wrong. Each year the number after winter went from 270-275-280 on up. Until the Winter of 2005/2006. We were at my parents place for the Super Bowl. I got up after eating and went to the rest-room at about half-time. For some reason the scale was calling me. So to amuse myself I got on the scale. The numbers finally popped up. 303.8.

So after many tears.....I walked back out of the rest-room and decided it was time to change my life. I weighed in the next morning at 296.5 and started my journey. I set goals for myself and tried to make them realistic as possible for the time I was willing to commit. I held myself accountable to these goals.

Goal Weight
First Disney Vacation May 06 260
Second Disney Vacation August 06 240
Birthday October 230
Thanksgiving 11/23/06 223
Christmas 12/25/06 218
Disney Vacation January 07 213
1 Year Weigh In 2/06/06 213
Anniversary April 200

So what was I going to do to get there? The first thing I decided to cut out was pop/soda. I knew I was drinking alot of calories in soda, but never really understood until I sat down and figured it up. I was drinking somewhere in the neighborhood of 1,750 calories a day (And that was on a low day.) If you have anywhere near this kind of pop you realize how it makes you feel. Sluggish, extremely tired and really unmotivated to do anything. The headaches began and it really has been the hardest part of it all. At the same time I started walking. A couple miles at first. I bought myself a treadmill the year before with a bonus I received so that really helped me in the cold Ohio weather. So did I start eating healthier you might ask? I started watching my calories using on-line calculators for how many calories I should have and how many I would need to lose weight. I figured out everything I was eating from Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner and didn't eat something if I didn't know how many calories I was having. I didn't worry about Fat, Protein, Carbs, etc. I did go from eating hamburgers to eating Chicken most of the time (Although I still had Hamburgers once a week.) I switched from Fries at places to Salads (Although again I still would have fries sometimes.) I also started drinking only water which I would also drink Diet Pop that before I couldn't stomach. Drinking a ton of water really does help you because it makes you feel fuller and it keeps you hydrated. So week by week I increased my mileage and was walking every day. I'd take a day off here and there, but pretty much every day. Summer came and I started walking at lunch. I'd walk up and get my sandwich and then walk back to work and eat it. I was walking 5-10 miles a day. The 10,000 steps program was also introduced at my work so I got my pedometer and started tracking my steps. I was easily in the 15,000-20,000 steps a day range. So how did my goal's work out you ask? Well here you go.

Goal Weight Actual Weight
First Disney Vacation May 06 260 259
Second Disney Vacation August 06 240 238
Birthday October 230 230
Thanksgiving 11/23/06 223 222
Christmas 12/25/06 218 217
Disney Vacation January 07 213 213
1 Year Weigh In 2/06/06 213 213
Anniversary April 200 199

That's right. I had done it. I made it to below 200 and hit every one of my goals. I was so proud of myself. I couldn't believe how much weight I'd lost and what I had done.

So where am I now? Close to 190. Still considered overweight, but I'm getting closer to being within my Healthy BMI.

So what's next? 2 weeks ago I had a homemade Dole whip and started feeling guilty (As I tend to do when I treat myself.) So I went out and ran. 1.5 miles in 95 degree weather (Which I know was really stupid), but I did it. I hadn't been able to run in years and always used my knees as an excuse (Because I really do have bad knees.) Now I'm addicted. I'm running every other day and I'm up to 4 miles running.

So my journal is to me and really anyone that will listen to hold me accountable for what my next goal is. To run a Marathon and not just any Marathon, but the Marathon at Disney World. I have a long trek ahead of me and I have the full support of my wife, daughter and as of less than two weeks ago my second daughter!!!! So any support and words of wisdom are appreciated. I've been doing the WISH for a long time and was in a great thread (Want to be under 200 pounds thread) where everyone was very supportive and a great group to go through my journey with.

If you have gotten this far I appreciate your time and will try and keep up with how long I have run, what the weather was like, etc.

Hope to see you all on the trails!
Chris

 

[AmyBeth68]

Hi Chris

First of all, CONGRATULATIONS on what you've accomplished! You really have made a major change in your life and should be commended since I know it takes so much hard work and dedication to get where you are now. It's great to hear success stories such as yours!

I ran the WDW Marathon last year and plan to do the Goofy Marathon and a Half in Jan. 08. My marathon journey had a lot of ups and downs...some bumps in the road, some successes, but overall it was, and continues to be, life changing and really amazing to complete a marathon and know you've done something that so few have. I wish you the absolute best of luck as you train for the marathon.

I am by no means an expert, but if you have any questions pertaining to the marathon, training, etc I'd be happy to help to the best of my ability. I would highly recommend checking out Scott's Journal (Scojo15) ....his journey has been highly inspirational, he's my marathon running buddy, and he's made HUGE strides (no pun intended ) and I count on him for advice more than anything, including books or online resources.

Continue to journal so we can see your progress! Best of luck in this endeavor. Oh....are you planning to run Disney this January?

 

[tbstein]

Hello Chris!

Just wanted to post a note and say Thanks for the amazing inspiration! You are so right with goals and keeping to them. That is where I seem to get lost. That and the consistancy of a regular work schedule. I notice the difference when on a regular schedule than when I am all over the place. I get out of wack with my walks and when I eat. The doctor even tells me that I need to get a stable schedule. I am working on that.

Wonderful Chris!

Wendy

 

[goofyinohio]

Got in another 4 miles last night although it took me a little longer in 46 minutes up from the night before at 42 minutes. It was a little warmer 82 compared to the low 70's on Tuesday. I was also trying to keep my Heart rate a little lower, but I didn't slow down enough because my average was 151 just down from 156 the previous night. My daughter was so sweet on about mile 3 I was running by my house and she got me a water and handed it to me as I went by. Trying to drink and run was not easy. I feel soar today and need to take it easy when it comes to running. I already walked 2.5 miles today and plan on doing some cross training tonight and riding the bike.

AmyBeth,
I am planning on running in January 2008 as well as the TOT in October. Just waiting and hoping for a Ding fare for October. Do you know if they have Gatorade at the Disney Marathon and is it Fruit Punch or what kind? They recommed I drink in training what they have at the Marathon is why I ask. Also, what do they have at the food stops? Banana's, Powerbars, etc? I assume you just pick them up you don't have to stop and pay, but it's my first attempt at a Marathon so I do have many questions.

Wendy,

I think getting on a stable schedule will really help you out. Having smaller goals throughout the year helped me so much. Rather than saying I have to be down to 200 by this date I knew where I wanted to go I just needed to take smaller steps to get there.

 

[AmyBeth68]

Hi Chris...

I think they had powerade on the course...but i honestly can't remember. Hmmm. Maybe you can call and find out, because i agree that you really do need to train with whatever you will use for energy. I personally only drink water as those electrolyte beverages make me sick when I run. Instead I use gels (that I carry) with the water provided. The snack stations had an assortment from bananas...to candy at one point . There aren't a lot of those stations though. They also ran out of water in a few stations last year , so if you are worried about that consider wearing a pack and carrying at least a bottle of water just in case.

 

[keenercam]

Chris -- I am so glad I found your journal. How inspiring your story is! Congratulations on all you have accomplished already! Looking forward to meeting you at a future Disney race WISH meet!

 

[Tiger Lily 03]

Chris, Welcome to WISH!

I am so happy you found our happy place. You have made an amazing journey and certainly have a great life ahead of you with your inspirational attitude.

Thank you for sharing with us.

 

[goofyinohio]

OK so time for my weekly check in. Keeping up daily is going to be a challenge even though I'm on here daily if not hourly for the last year.

So since last time I checked in I have done the following.

June 21st - Walked 3 miles (45 minutes) and Rode my bike for 9 miles (44:35)
June 22nd - Ran another 4 miles (42:11). This run felt really good. Was very excited.
June 23rd - Got up and walked 5.57 miles in 1:13:10 which was a really good pace.
June 24th - The first 5 miler in 51 minutes. Really good pace for me. A little faster than I'd be running in the TOT or Marathon at this point, but maybe by then I could sustain it. I also walked 2.73 miles in (34:32).
June 25th - Rode the Bike again for 12 miles (May need to stop this as it was bothering my knees) in 58:16. Also, I walked another 3.2 Miles in 42:29.
June 26th - Ran my second 5.1 miles in 58:29. Way slower pace than my previous 5 miler. Main reason was my knees were a little sore and it was 90 degrees and really humid. So I slowed my pace down to try and cool my body down. It hurt my time, but I finished my run without walking so that was a victory to me. I also walked 2.2 miles in 30 Minutes.
June 27th - Took it easy today. Wasn't going to do anything, but took a walk with my folks. It was an easy walk so I didn't wear my HRM or keep track of my time or even mileage.

OH YEAH and I also took the plunge and signed up for the TOT 13k and the WDW Marathon (Huge step). It's not official yet for the Full Marathon, but they are only at 70% so I'm pretty sure I'm in.

I'm probably doing the Marathon on my own as my family won't likely be able to come with me. If there is a good enough ding fare for January I may try and fly my wife and daughters in for the weekend (They can't miss any more school!)

Thanks for the welcome's everyone. I've been on the WISH Boards for about a year now, but really just started on the competition side. Mainly stayed in the I want to be under 200 pounds thread. Which seems to have died out lately.

 

[toystoryduo]

Hi goofyinohio from Tracy in Ohio!

Welcome to the WISH Journals Board! We're glad you decided to join us here.

Great job signing up for the TOT and the WDW Marathons! You have accomplished a lot on your journey already. You will do a great job at these races I am sure!

Best wishes to you as you train for both events and for an awesome DING fare in the near future!

Have a great day!

~Tracy

 

[goofyinohio]

Here are some pictures of my journey. The first bunch are the before's.

 

[tbstein]

Hi!

Greats pics!

I am working on getting a balanced schedule. I am working on smaller goals to lead up to the weight goal I want to be. Working with DD and we are more focused as a team.

Keep on running!

Wendy

 

[neonurse]

WOW!!! That is very inspiring. What a handsome guy. You must be so proud of yourself. I am currently on a similar journey and almost the same weight to loose. I have been following Sparkpeople.com it has calorie counter, education and motivation. (and its FREE) I have lost 27 lbs so far. Sometimes it gets hard because the numbers aren't dropping too much but then I think how far I have come. I tried on pants tonight that I used to wear and they are too big. Love that!! Now I found your story and boy am I set to go. Motivation +++. Thanks so much for sharing your story. I appreciate it and I am very happy for you.

 

[toystoryduo]

Great pictures, Chris! How is training going so far this week?

Have a safe and Happy 4th of July!

 

[goofyinohio]

Time for my weekly check in. Overall it was a good week. I really enjoyed running when I did. Thanks for the notes everyone. It means alot. Hope everyone is having a good Holiday week!

So since last time I checked in I have done the following.

June 28th - Ran 5 miles in 50 minutes on the treadmill. The treadmill feels so much better than outside. Just better on my knees and body. Going to try and do this once a week to help with any soreness I may have.
June 29th - Ran 3.08 Miles. This run was a 5k prep run. It felt really good, but was more all out than my longer runs. Made it in 27:57. I'm very anxious and nervous about my first running 5k. Coming up on Sunday July 8th.
June 30th - Went to see Wicked and also a family reunion so little to no activity. Wicked by the way was fantastic.
July 1st - The first 6.04 miler in 1 hour and 8 minutes (11:20 per mile). Was worried about the distance and was tired so I slowed my pace down. Didn't have any problems with the distance on this day. It was sunny and around 70 degrees.
July 2nd - Walked 3 miles in 41 Minutes. Nice afternoon for a walk too.
July 3rd - Ran my second 6.03 miles in 1 hour and 2 minutes and 34 seconds. (10:23 per mile). This run was feeling pretty good, but my legs just didn't feel right. My left calf was bothering me and by mile 4 it started cramping up on me. I was really worried I was going to have to stop. It eventually worked itself out, but I was hurting the rest of the day. I'm not sure if I didn't stretch good enough or if it was just one of those things.
July 4th - Walked 4.34 miles in 1 hour.

So something I realized about myself this week was I can run through some pain and I'm not a quitter. I could have easily given up when I got the cramps and my knees bothered me, but I didn't. (Now I could have really hurt myself at the same time) I also think I'm going to stay with 6 miles the next week or so. I have 2 5k's coming up on the next two Sunday's so I'm anxious and very nervous. Why I have no idea. I'm not racing to win or anything and the time isn't all that important to me. I'm hoping by doing some of these races I'll be calm when I do the TOT 13k.

 

[AmyBeth68]

Wow Chris...excellent training. Thanks for sharing your pics as well .

Your times are getting quite fast. I think you'll do great in the 5K races!

 

[hockeygirl]

Hi Chris--Just read through your journal, and all I have to say is "WOW" what an awesome story you have!!! WTG! I am also training for 2008 WDW Marathon...it will also be my first! I look forward to following your journey!

Keep up the good work, you workouts look great so far!

 

[ScoJo15]

Hi Chris!

Cool to see another dude on here, welcome aboard!

Just wanted to stop in and congratulate you on the tremendous success you had in both getting below 200 AND running over the course of the last few weeks. While your journey was much more difficult, I did a similar thing last year. I started in March with the goal of running the Half Marathon in Disney, having never been a runner before at all....long story short is my buddy AmyBeth68 convinced me to sign up for the full and we ended up completing the marathon together. We've been through a lot of obstacles, from injuries to what to eat during the week to how many miles to log each week and how fast to do them. I dropped over 30 pounds in the process and completely changed my diet. Now we are back for more, having signed up for the Goofy in '08. Hopefully we all can share tips and support with each other as we each get to our goals this upcoming January.

So way to go in your journey, you should be very proud of yourself. And good luck in the 5k on Sunday...will be anxious to see how you did. Have a good one..

 

[goldcupmom]

A very belated welcome to WISH, Chris!

I've been AWOL due to vacation , life & having a hard time getting back into a routine.

Your store is incredible and the pictures are UNBELIEVEABLE!!

Hopefully I"ll get to meet you at the TOT! I'm hoping for a great DING! fare, too!

 

[goofyinohio]

So I'm a little anxious this week so I'm checking in early.

Scott it is great to hear from another guy. It sometimes seems I'm the only one out here. Your journey sounds awesome as well. I'm really excited to do the Marathon and to hear you are doing the Goofy is really cool.

Laurie - Let me know of any tips you may have and what you are doing to get ready for your first Marathon when you have the time.

Julie - Just got my Ding fare yesterday. Thanks for the welcome. I had already got my tickets for my flight, but I now have $58 or something like that in ticketless travel for my January trip.


OK So here we go....


July 5th - Ran 6 miles in 60 minutes on the treadmill (10 minute miles.) As I said the treadmill feels so much better on my knees than outside, but this day my daughter wanted the TV so I was bored out of my mind. However, I ended up with a sore calf again.
July 6th - Walked 5.02 Miles in 1 hour and 4 Minutes. Love my walks. I'm known throughout my town as a walker and if I'm not around town walking they worry about me. So now that I'm running in a different part of town they wonder if I'm still at it.
July 7th - So I slowed down and Ran 6.02 miles in 1 hour and 9 minutes (11:23 per Mile) No problems at all with soreness. Not sure if it was me stretching out better, walking and warming up more or slowing down my pace. I was pretty happy with my run although I know my pace isn't where I want it to be. My heart rate however was pretty close.
July 8th - My first running 5k. I was extremely nervous. Got there at 7 on the dot. Went up and got my timing chip and then it was time to wait. So I stretched, walked around, stretched some more and must have went to the bathroom at least 8 times. So how did I do? Well I got a little competitive and while I had my HRM on I just made sure it didn't spike on me and I went a little faster on the first mile than I probably should have. Now I wasn't winded or anything (Which surprised me), but I realized it was a little too hot so I backed it down some. Total time for my run 28:49:54 (Or 9:18 minute miles.) It felt great and I'm taking my family with me this week to cheer me on.
July 9th - Walked 3.17 miles in roughly 43 Minutes. Also walked a couple miles later in the day, but didn't keep track of time.

Do anyone else ever feel like they should be running every day? I feel bad when I walk one day like I'm going to all the sudden lose the distance I've been building up.

So that's my story for the last 5 days or so. Going to run tonight just before dark because it's going to be so hot today.

 

[AmyBeth68]

AWESOME AWESOME pace for your 5K Chris!!! WAY to go .

As far as the slower pace on that one run...I wouldn't stress it at all. Especially if it felt so much better. From everything I've read you really are supposed to do about 60-90 seconds slower on most of your runs than your race pace. So for you if it's your fast 5K pace 9:18 (which probably puts you at a 10 mpm marathon pace)...then anything around 10:30 to 11:30 is a GREAT pace for you to train with. It keeps your HR low and fatigues your body less. Just my unsolicited advice LOL. Last year I trained all out for most of my runs....this year I'm running two runs per week at that slower 11:00 mpm pace and doing one fast tempo run per week. The rest of the week is all XT for me. Sounds like the walking is GREAT XT for you .

Good luck with your next race. You are really speedy Chris .