Trainer Notes

Goodbye 300's! HELLO 297!!! We are extremely happy today to report that Michael has officially broken the 300 mark. At weigh-in today, we thought we would have a chance...maybe 299...but as usual, Michael exceeded the expectation. So, now just 4 pounds and 9 days to go to hit the 100 lb. weight loss mark - all in 5 months!

This week we will be finishing up Michael's last workout program for this competition. Next week we'll transition out with a few workouts at a lower intensity and volume, while also focusing on Michael's plan moving forward. While Michael will still be in a fat loss mode past this competition to continue towards his ultimate goal weight, some of the focus and pressure of the contest will be off of his shoulders. The basic structure to his workouts of 3 days resistance training followed by short duration cardio, and 2 other days of just cardiovascular exercise will remain the same, as will his focus on the basic concepts of good nutrition. These are now lifestyle patterns for him, and this competition provided him with an opportunity and positive pressure to develop those habits. However, I do think there will be a positive aspect of this contest coming to an end for Michael. Now, his focus can shift to him doing this mainly for himself, and some of the more challenging pressures of being in a "contest", with the spotlight always on you will dim.

There will still be the basic challenge of keeping the same level of focus and effort through internal motivation, but the support system Michael has around him now is extensive, and should help keep him on track. I know that we are always here for him, and will do whatever we can to help him continue toward his ultimate goal. Stay tuned, as there's a good chance that our next post could be to report the "Big Number."