It was only a few months ago that my kidneys were not functioning, my hair was falling out, and I could barely get out of bed each day. Today those symptoms are gone, but the after effects of such a traumatic experience still linger within me.
“De-leveled” is probably the best way to describe how I feel. (To those of you who are not video game geeks, this refers to a phenomenon in many role playing games where, in the original title of a series, you develop or “level-up” your character to his fullest extent. But then in the sequel game, your character has to start all the way back at zero.)
All the days of doctor enforced bed rest has taken a noticeable toll on my body. I still lose my breath when I walk up a flight of stairs. I can’t run on the treadmill without my foot becoming sore. My tennis serve, which I had spent months improving, is now powder-puff at best.
And while it still pains me to think about what I went through, I know that the only productive course of action is to continue pressing forward. I have a job now. The job provides health benefits. The job also provides a gym membership.
I’ve always taken somewhat of a freelance approach when I entered the gym; just work on whatever machine is empty and make sure to leave before prime time TV begins. But I think my results have suffered because of this mentality.
Therefore, I’ve come up with an actual schedule of how I want to work out. I have access to a gym both through corporate sponsorship and at my apartment complex. While I’ll probably attend the one at home more often, I definitely plan to go to the other one as well for the classes. As far as the tactical schedule goes, I’ve listed it below. My theory is that if I document and track my progression, I’ll be more motivated to succeed. I don’t want my health to be an issue anymore.
Here goes nothing.
Every Day
Elliptical Machine – 15 min, 12 Resistance
Angled Sit-ups – 3 sets, 10 reps
Alternate between Tricep & Bicep Workouts
Tricep & Chest – 3 sets with 6 reps
Bench Press – 80 lbs
Butterfly Press – 80 lbs
Tricep Pulley – 60 lbs
Bicep & Back – 3 sets with 6 reps
Curls – 60lbs
Seated Row – 110 lbs
Pull Up – 120 lbs
