An online prorgess journal: Yinn

[Aikuchi]

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Time for another update.

I'm beginning to feel better about pushing myself a little harder at the gym and with my workouts. I still feel like a nervous beginner in the gym but at least I'm gaining that much confidence about pushing myself just a little harder and further with each rep and each lift. Reminding myself that I've added just that much more weight since I began a year ago.

Not great, mind you .... but better.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ss_2009_05.jpg

And surprisingly (at least for this month) - getting used to the idea I could go through with this all by myself. I've come this far whining about how I don't have someone to workout with, and yet I'm still doing solo. So I've either resigned and accepted that I can do this my myself for myself, or I've actually gotten tired of hearing myself complain (LOL!)

Still a lot of work to do, mind you - but acceptance seems to come easier. I secretly guilt myself into thinking its the process of getting older and deeper into the 30s, but (shrugs) - until I've proven wrong, who's to say it is and isn't

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[Aikuchi]

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Work's beginning to swamp about, like sentient muck clamouring for fresh souls to drown. Been some time since I've been at the forum.

(sigh) - thus the life as a designer in an ad agency. I don't know how much longer I can take it and it looks like it gonna get worse. On the other hand, I want to be in this line long enough to build a good, strong resume and then opt out for a position as a in-house designer someplace else ... and I need the money. I seem to be having less and less savings each month and I'm going through a find tooth comb wondering where all my cash went to and what expenses I've made.

Until I realize, there's nothing I've changed short of spending less ... because everything else has gone up in price. The recent outbreak of the H1N1 casts a quiet tension over everything here. coupled with the fluctuating economic clime and increasing rate of violent crimes (for money - i.e. murdering a security guard to steal iron off old construction fences to hawk for smelting cash returns) ... has set prices in every expenditures rising. Gas, power and food stuffs have gone by in minor ways, but a lot of little is still a lot.

I know I still have to eat more, and eat healthy - and I fear thats the hardest at this point. I'm not willing to let got of my gym membership because I'm very adamant about that, irregardless of how much work still needs to be done (I always keep enough to be able to finish the next day -I'm not that dull ); but I guess I'm ranting now.

Pics now :-

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ss_2009_06.jpg


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[chocomus]

Great!
i can see more lats showing, wider pecs and thicker arms!
good work

[Aikuchi]

Originally Posted by chocomus

Great!
i can see more lats showing, wider pecs and thicker arms!
good work

Thank you, I really do appreciate it
Altho' I'm not quite sure how you can see the arms properly LOL

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[jamiebicep]

yes you can definately see your arms are getting rounder and chunkier - dont you measure them? and the angle of your lats is now there. great work

[Aikuchi]

Originally Posted by jamiebicep

yes you can definately see your arms are getting rounder and chunkier - dont you measure them? and the angle of your lats is now there. great work

Thank you very much Jamie Bicep!

And no ... I don't measure my arms. I don't think they're at the measuring state yet.

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[Aikuchi]

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Time for an update!

I'm really happy I weighed myself last week! I started off at about 65 kg (143 lbs) and have been that way for more than a decade I believe. I've recently stepped on a scale and i'm ... 68 kg (149 lbs)!

That's great for me considering that its the weight I've put on this year alone! I was 65 at the start of the year.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ss_2009_07.jpg

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[viamanmax]

Looks to me like your arm is getting bigger. Congrats on making progress.

[omelissokomos]

Originally Posted by Aikuchi

And no ... I don't measure my arms. I don't think they're at the measuring state yet.

Bah, measure them anyway so you have something objective to look back to when your arms are hitting 17 and above, which is closer now than when you started, judging by how you look in your latest pic.

[Aikuchi]

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Viamanmax
Thank you for noticing

omelissokomos
Well, I don't have a tape measure and I dont think I can bend rulers all the way around but I'll see to it some time in the future to ffigure a way to get about measuring the biceps

August update -
I've been putting on weight really fast these past month or 2. I'm pretty sure its a combination of muscle and fat but its something! I just hope most of it isn't fat.
Currently at 69 kg (152 lbs.) - I was 60 kg (132 lbs.) a year ago April.
Damn ... looking back at the numbers I just typed, I'm kinda shocked.

I'm going to try and be more picky about the food I consume and practice more stringent dietary habits. Its seems like I should, even with whatever current limits I have; I've no doubt its still do-able.

Having skimmed a bit here and there in my workouts, I'm generally not happy with myself. I'm angry for not not following through thoroughly on workout days and even though I know its because work has been piling up, there's really no excuse for slacking.

As with the past, I'd still like someone to train with me but its unrealistic to think anyone would put up with my erratic agency schedule. But I remind myself, I still do ok by myself. No injuries thus far.

I'm also trying to get used to this shape.
This new body shape that I'm beginning to notice. Its a strange mixture of pride and confusion (wondering where it could lead to). Like I have to be more careful now that I being to realize its taking a different form.

I also need new pants.
My waist also grew, its a combination of weight gain and age (as the pelvic region grows wider). <--- totally random to mention, I know.

Oh and here's the progress link.
Mind you, I've just purchased my first digital camera (thus the change in the shot) and am still trying to get used to it.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ss_2009_08.jpg

I used to know why however, I forget. Why doesn't the image post up and a link only appears even though I put the [IMG] tags on?

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[Aikuchi]

... will not be going to the gym anytime soon. And the news depresses me ...

I got into a bad car accident last Friday and my body's all shook up and feeling sore from the impact. My car front seems totally trashed ... feeling bad about that too, since I need a car to get to work.

Banged up my knee, nothing broken but its hurts real bad.

Just an update.

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[omelissokomos]

Sorry to hear about your accident, Aikuchi, but glad you came out of it without a worse injury. Get well soon.

[viamanmax]

I hope you are feeling better soon, that really sucks.

[Aikuchi]

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Thanks O'melissokomos & viamanmax, I guess I do feel better by now.

Didn't manage to get any days off work, but at least i can walk around and do my desk job.

Unfortunately there's a slight pain on my lowest left rib much like a bruise, but there's no discoloration. The other bruises and getting darker and showing, and my cuts and tears are healing up and scabbing - except for the twinge of pain in the ribs.

I think I'll get it checked if it persists tomorrow.

Boyfriend forbids me to go to the gym until he's a hundred percent sure I'm ok. Much as it depresses me that I can't go, I know he's right.

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[Aikuchi]

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This month of September hasn't been good for me.

Due to a number of things (death of a relative, work hitting its peak operating months, car repair payments, computer starting to break down, etc ...) - because I don't have enough for savings, much less meals and really late hours in the office (10 - 13 hrs) ... I've frozen mt gym membership for the month . Not something I did lightly and with a heavy heart.

I'm agitated over the decision but I know it had to be the right one under the circumstances.

It'll all will hopefully return to a sane schedule sometime by Mid October. I hope ...

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[omelissokomos]

Hope things pick up for you soon, Aikuchi. In the meantime, try not to neglect your health with all the hours you're putting in at work. Maybe you can work in some push-ups and crunches in the morning? It'd be a shame to lose what you worked so hard to gain.

[Aikuchi]

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Its been 2 months (?) since I've been to the gym.

I just had my first week returning - 3rd session so far and it feels like I've started over.

Not much else I can add, except it feels more frustrating to catch up to where I left off. I'm still in the midst of heavy projects and time is still a little more uncertain but I'm making the same effort I did before. 3 times a week.

I'm pretty sure my diets a little wonky due to uneven work hours.

But I'm still determined to go back and get exercise. I want to feel some strength back in this body of mine. Perhaps I'll have to revisit some goals I had before. Its going to be a new year and it needs new assessment. Or a change of attitude.

On the other hand, all the hard work at the office got me promoted. Now its official ... I have more work.

Thank you for all your support, and omelissokomos; I've also started putting in push-ups and sit-ups in the morning. Every day .... although its a lot less intense or heavy as it used to be before the accident.

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[viamanmax]

I am so glad to hear you finally got back into the gym dude. Hope you get back up to speed fast.

[Aikuchi]

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Just a quick note.

November was a terribly busy month for me at work. I worked 7 days/night weeks and I just got my first weekend off last week. What this means is a sporadic visit to the gym which I've disappointed myself over ...
And the slow realization that even though I love my company - I don't think I'm cut out for the long term effects of advertising - sigh ...

Its December now and ... another stroke of bad news.
I got into another car accident. This time, my car got crushed between 3 cars, from the front and back. Thankfully, I'm ok, but my body is shaken all over again.

Regardless, I'm trying to sort a lot of things out and I'm trying to work hard to making my gym routine a priority again.

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[viamanmax]

Sorry to hear about the tough time your having. I hope everything starts going better, but its good to hear that your comitting yourself to the gym again. It is always so tough when you start after a long time off.

[omelissokomos]

Boy, 2 car mishaps in one year.

Ah well, here's to writing off 2009 which is ending soon and to hoping 2010 will be a better year for you, Aikuchi.

[Aikuchi]

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My first post and update for 2010.

A lot has happened to say the least.

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In a nutshell:-

I've been going to the gym sporadically since last December 09 - and I've not been too happy with myself. Work has been getting steadily and gradually heavier. I'm taking on responsibility at work and the hours are beginning to get to me. I squeeze time for the gym when I can.

I've only begun a regular routine in the past month again - and have been trying to change to a heavier diet.

I'll be moving (migrating) to Canada in a couple of years (if not sooner) - but my application has fallen short by just 1 - 2 points. There are ways to work about it - but the entire process has also affected my schedule and work performance in general. I'm trying to remain focused at work, alas it means I'm being lax in other parts of my life.

I'm frustrated and often disappointed at myself but I know I want to still go on - with the gym and my emigration efforts. I'm honestly not sure I've made much difference in my photos for the past years ...
On the other hand, I've put on about 6 kg (13 lbs) in one year !

By the way - anyone that can introduce me to what Toronto is like?
I'll be visiting in early May for 2 weeks ...

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Progress
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ss_2010_03.jpg

[Aikuchi]

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Its been 2 years since I've started this .... wow ..

Anyways this is my current month's update (April 2010).

I think I see some improvement - minor but visible. I've been pushing myself harder this month i guess. Maybe I'm extra motivated because I haven't been out of the country to travel in the past ... 12 years or so. And I ... guess I want to look good LOL!

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http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ss_2010_04.jpg

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[viamanmax]

Yinn, you definitely look better. Your arms shows more definition than before, keep up the good work.

[Aikuchi]

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Thank Viamanmax.

I actually don't think my arms have made much progress, but i'm hoping its an overall thing thats preventing me from seeing any significant improvement in one area.

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[omelissokomos]

Originally Posted by Aikuchi

Maybe I'm extra motivated because I haven't been out of the country to travel in the past ... 12 years or so. And I ... guess I want to look good LOL!

That's a good a motivation as any, I'd say. You've got a few more weeks before your trip to eat, sleep, lift, and grow.

[CanadianGordon]

Looking forward to meeting you when you get here!

[Aikuchi]

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Just updating links since i moved some pictures around ...

UPDATES:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ss_2010_03.jpg

And

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ss_2010_04.jpg

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[Aikuchi]

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I'm posting for MAY progress now because I'll be leaving for Canada (Toronto) in 3 days.

I don't know how I'm gonna get much exercise done for the 2 weeks that I'm there, except for what I can do without the need for a gym. But I'm sorely lacking in knowledge for what makes for good workouts.

I'll research a bit more. Perhaps if I'm not too shy, try and see if I can get a short (week) trial membership while I'm in the city ... but I'll have to resource it out and check things. Perhaps it might not be worth it since most things there are equivalent to 3 times my own currency.

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As for progress. I don't think 2009 - 2010 was as good a year for progress for me. I doesn't look like much improvement. There is some, but nothing really significant but I know I had a troubled late 2009. No excuse but I know why nonetheless.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ss_2010_05.jpg

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[Aikuchi]

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In a manner of speaking its the middle of 2010!

Honestly I've recently been inspired by my trip to Canada.
I missed working out and while i was in Toronto, I worked out with just push-ups, crunches and leg lifts in my room every morning and evening and just ate whatever was healthy. For 2 weeks.

Still don't like soda pop and snacks ... yuech.

Ive definitely lost weight while I was there. And I've come to confirm that for my height and build - I'm heavier (kg/lbs) than most (average). So using my weight as a measurement with others isnt so great nor accurate. Its best to reflect on my own changes against myself.

I've put on some weight I think quite quickly but ... I think its the rich Malaysian food! LOL! But still lighter than when left.

As for newfound inspiration, with me relaxing a lot more at work - I'm more determined to make body pump classes for endurance and muscle toning, increasing my regular weights on my weight nights and most importantly ... getting more sleep at night.

Actually, I'm seriously considering moving from my current popular commercial gym to a smaller outfit. A crossfit training gym center.

It not only feels better suited for someone with limited time during the week (but determined nonetheless) - but its also to push myself harder. And change things up. Its been 2 years after all!

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http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ss_2010_06.jpg

And just a few more extra shots I took

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...10_-06June.jpg


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[CanadianGordon]

It was a real pleasure to meet you and look forward to seeing you grow bigger! Awesome arm!

[Aikuchi]

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It hasn't been easy the last couple of weeks.

A few weeks ago, I injured my hand (palm) after my first session at the crossfit gym. I felt ok, but alas ... it got infected and ate a little into the flesh. So I had to stop the gym for at least 2 weeks.

In those 2 weeks, every application I made to go into teaching slowly got turned down or they just werent looking. At the beginning of July, I was also informed that the occupations list for emigration to Canada has been updated. This really meant that it was sliced down to a quarter or less of what it had been with new laws and restrictions attached.

The last few months of me trying to enter a new industry ... seems like a waste since education was removed from the list.

I'm jobless - and frantically searching for a new job and sending out resumes. Partially at a loss for what kind of job I'm trying to get as well, since nothing I can do applies to the new list of occupation on the emigration list. My family left for Toronto (for emigration requirement) a little over a week and a half ago, so I'm taking care of things back here at home.

I just began the gym again last week.
The new crossfit gym.
And although I'm loving it, it seems to the only part of my life I'm in control - and only after an absence due to an infection on my palm.

Sigh.

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But I am nothing if not consistent

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ss_2010_07.jpg

Latest progress for July.

[Aikuchi]

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Jad one of those machiones things calculate my ... stats ...

for my age height and weight:
I am 70.7 kg (156.5 lbs)
20 % fat
33 % muscle (this surprised the trainer for some reasion)
and the kCal: 1650 I think.

I'm not so sure i'm getting all the proper number / summary right but its a rough gauge.

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[Aikuchi]

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Found an old August pic from 2008.

And honestly, I'm a little disappointed at myself seeing the ''progress" since 2 years ago. Perhaps a a little angry too.
Altho I partly know whats happened.

Since I lost my job I've been trying to skimp here and there - and one of which is eating smaller portions / eating less. Although I'm training hard at the gym; changing my eating habits has also affected the outcome.

I just weighed myself and I now weigh a whopping 70 kg / 154 lbs. I've lost so much weight in just about a month. From 167.5 lbs - 154 lbs.

Heres the progess pic.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ss_2010_08.jpg

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[Aikuchi]

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Still unemployed.

Still bummed out about it - and feeling particularly tragic as my savings shrink.

Been going to the gym nearly everyday but still not quite eating enough i think.

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(will post progress pics link later - photobucket is down)

[Aikuchi]

LINK

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http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...hi/09_2010.jpg


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[Aikuchi]

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I just weighed myself an hour ago after a workout and I'm really happy with the results! I even took pics of myself LOL!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...i/sept2010.jpg

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for my age height and weight:
JULY 2010
I am 70.7 kg (156.5 lbs)
20 % fat
33 % muscle

SEPT 2010
I am 69.4 kg (153 lbs)
16 % fat
36 % muscle

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YEA for improvement!

[CanadianGordon]

Awesome progress. You gotta take some flexing shots.

[Aikuchi]

Time for Oct's check up!


Ok so not the best weigh in stats - expecting more improvement, but I also understand the results.
I had to change my workout schedule around my new work time. Since I work in the next city- I leave too early (gyms not open) and Im always the last person in the gym by the time i finish work - so I'm kinda tired.
Diets not so great since there isnt much good food choices around where i work and I'm kinda broke (even for groceries) so I havent been preparing my own meals either.
But hey - I still havent missed my daily workout

LINKIES!!!

Standard comparison shot with 2 years ago.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ss_2010_10.jpg

Casual relaxed shot and a bicep flex (yea - i have one!)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...s/oct_2010.jpg

for my age height and weight:
JUNE 2010
I am 75 kg (165.3 lbs)

JULY 2010
I am 70.7 kg (156.5 lbs)
20 % fat
33 % muscle

SEPT 2010
I am 69.4 kg (153 lbs)
16 % fat
36 % muscle

OCT 2010
I am 67.7 kg (149 lbs)
17.4 % fat
34.6 % muscle

[CanadianGordon]

Very nice. What are your stats now?
Measurements? Bicep is looking hard and growing.