How to start all over again

[DrivingForward]

Hello Bro's ,

I am posting this thread in the beginners section for several reasons. I've been a very long time lurker on this board, but used to be very active on several others. Its been about 2 years since I've cycled, and about 12 months since I've been in a gym.

Approx 18 months ago I was solid 5'8, 224lbs and 9%bf. I know that isn't so big for this board, but its pretty decent compared to others like Steroid.com. Either way- at this weight/stats I felt like a million bucks, was confident, and still very athletic (I liked to run, bike, row, etc).

Fast forward 18 months after:

1. 2 lay offs (try losing a 100k/yr job twice in a year)
2. Bankruptcy
3. Divorce
4. Injury
5. A brief bout of severe alcohol use
6. A terrible onset of depression

I'm ready to put it all behind me and start lifting again. Just like I am rebuilding my body brick-by-brick, I am also trying to rebuild my life in similar fashion. You might say they are one in the same.

I'm going to have to relearn how to eat, how to train, and how to cycle effectively. At current stats, I am 5'8 200lbs approx 20%Bf... a far cry from how I used to look and feel.

I'm going to be keeping a journal of my experiences and difficulties of trying to get back up after falling through the floor. I will post them every week or so - as they accumulate, incase anyone is interested in reading.

If anyone else has similar stories, and have been able to get back on the horse (or not), I invite them to share. I appreciate the advice and hope that eventually this might help others in the same situation

In the meantime, I'll be off reading the "stickies"

-DF

 

[Jcagle]

Good for you man, getting your self back is going to be freedom on it's own. Life is tough in which you have shown. Through my tough times I have learned that you can't help or please others untill you are happy with yourself. Keep plugging along bro and get you body back the way you had it; 5'8" 224 at 9% is awesome. I would take that in a heart beat! Good luck man!

 

[DrivingForward]

Thank you for the encouragement, its good to know I'm not the only one.

 

[boss]

Hey bro...

Welcome back to the right track. I wouldn't say my story is similar to yours as there are not definite similarities with lives but there are some things in common...

I have battled with alcohol and drugs for years but was at one time very serious about BB and made it to 230 or so sub 10% and threw it all away but in the last few years I lost a six figure job, got into some trouble and went to jail, was completely broke and credit is now f'kd and made my way back to the gym finally. The gym has helped keep me focused in all areas of my life it didn't happen overnight as I would go for a few weeks fall of the wagon, cheat on my diet, etc the typical yo yo when you are not really ready. Then a few months ago i started hitting it and my muscles felt different this time and i have been going ever since it was like they were telling me "It's time again". I am employed although not making nearly what i'm accustomed to I'm happy to have a job, pay the bills and putting a little away for the time being. I've also hit my longest sobriety point in 9 years at the same time as well.

I can relate to your struggles and challenges...feel free to PM me for any specifics on things that helped me overcome the depressing part of things and starting my long long jouney back to being a heavyweight.

Be well and may you find your way in 2010.