 Never realizing how fat I was getting, I eventually stayed away from the scale. When I started the program I was approximately 270 pounds; I've been heaver at different times in my life. Even though I looked happy on the outside, I was not. It pained me having to buy larger pants (I was beyond a size 42 waist). I hated the way I looked; pictures of myself were difficult for me to view. I would diet and exercise for short periods, but never understood the difference between caloric intake and output. Therefore, I assumed since I exercised for five days I could eat whatever I wanted on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Now when I look back, I took in somewhere around 5,000 to 8,000 calories each day.
The hardest part of committing to a lifestyle change was thinking that I would have to give up all the foods that I love; pizza, In-N-Out Burgers, BJ's Pizzaria (Pizookie cookies), cakes, popcorn, peanut M&M's, Mexican food, appetizers, etc. However, realizing my health was at risk, my life had to be more important. I also had a deadline; I was getting married in 9 months. Not that I was doing it for the wedding, but at least it gave me a goal date.
In October I contacted Chazz Weaver and told him I wanted some information on working out. He suggested some routines and told me what my calorie intake should be. I followed his advice. I worked out on my own at our local clubhouse. I noticed I lost some weight. This was a good thing. It gave me confidence and motivation to continue. I told Chazz I really wanted to lose weight but with the holiday's approaching and my family coming in from out of town, could we begin in January. Chazz understood and agreed.
On January 17th I started my exercise and nutrition plan. Chazz had given me a specific listing of foods and times to eat. He and I worked out together at 24 Hour Fitness for 6 straight days. After the first four days I thought I was going to die. He pushed me, but he knew my strength and how far I could go. After a month I noticed significant changes both in my strength and my weight.
By April I had lost 80 pounds and as of today I have lost a total of 88 pounds. I feel terrific. I have more energy, more confidence, and a desire to live. I have received numerous compliments and have people stop me to ask how I did it. I don't claim to be a spokesperson or expert but I share with them my experience. Some people, that I've spoken to, have actually started or gone back to the gym and curbed their eating habits. The wedding is in a month and I know I will look awesome. My fiancée and I are excited not only about our new life together but ‘my' new life.
I'll never be able to repay Chazz for all he done. He has never asked me for anything, except to be true to myself – Thank you Chazz.
Eric Krondak |
