That Was The Problem

If you've been following my 6-pack ab travails, you remember how I mentioned I was nearly blacking out upon standing up, almost every time. I did a little research (and got some helpful comments from you guys) and came to the conclusion that I had dropped my sodium levels too low. Well, upon bumping it up (to around 1,000mg/day), I've learned that it was a correct conclusion. No more dizzy spells, no more near blackouts.

However, I've thrown a different wrench into my quest. I'm currently in a low carb phase, which is giving me some new challenges. First, I'll state that I'm NOT a big fan of a high protein, low carb diet (based on only 3 days of it so far). I constantly feel bloated (12 oz. of chicken per day, with insufficient roughage will do that), plus I'm dropping too much weight (which attests to the effectiveness of the Atkins & other similar diets). In addition, it's just not a sustainable diet. I'll try to stick with it for a couple more days, then shift back to a normal macronutrient balance before boosting carbs the last couple of days to replenish my glycogen stores (& hopefully make my muscles fuller) before I take final photos.

Chris K, why did I listen to you? You're laughing at my expense, aren't you?

Coming Along

I hope everyone is enjoying the holidays. I certainly am...when I can take a break and come up for air. Work has been busier than it's been in a few years. Nice way to end a sub-par year.

The last 3 weeks or so, I've managed to get in a few spins on my Schwinn Airdyne. I've limited myself to 20 minutes per session. Initially, my heel would feel sore the next day or two, but lately it's felt pretty good. Either that area around my heel is getting stronger, or my heel is adapting to the activity. Today, I decided to up the ante just a bit. After my 20 minute "ride", I got on the treadmill and walked for 10 minutes, at a slight incline. I wanted to walk a mile, but erred on the side of caution. I wore my running shoes with my orthotics inserted. We'll see how the heel feels tomorrow.

The itch to run is becoming more intense. I'm seeing my doc next Wednesday, the 5th, so I'll report back on what he has to say about my next step in the process.

My ‘vanity project’ is still underway, though, so I at least have something to keep me motivated!

I envy those of you who are running their last races and last miles of the year. Wish I was out there with you. Like I've said before, run a couple of miles for me!

Week 3 of the Abs Project, and Orthotics News

I just posted my Week 3 update on my other blog.

My orthotics came in last week. The bad news is that there was some misunderstanding between my wife and our insurance company. Unfortunately, we have to cover the entire cost out-of-pocket, to the tune of over 4 bills. Ouch. The good news is that I may be out of my walking boot this Wednesday (which is my next doctor's appointment), so I'll be able to take advantage of the magical healing powers of the custom orthotics.

Okay, there was some sarcasm there. Who knows, maybe I'll be pleasantly surprised. It'll still be awhile before I can run, so the only feedback I'll get will be just wearing them around the house and around town.

All for now. I hope everyone's Christmas shopping is going better than mine...considering I haven't started yet!

Ab Out Time, Week 2

For those of you who are interested in following my Don Quixote Windmill Tilting quest for the elusive 6-pack abs on my other blog, here's the latest installment.

Ab Challenge

Okay, Chris K, I've taken your challenge! I just created a new blog to document my quest for a sharp 6-pack. Check it out here, and follow my journey, through good, bad and (hopefully not) ugly!