My growth log with pics!

[hyooge]

Hi there,

I'm really happy to have happened upon this site!

For the longest time, I've searched for a bodybuilding forum which is positive and supportive. I've been lifting for years, but I've recently found my motivation slipping. I'm in my early 30's and weigh around 195. I look like a guy who lifts regularly - but also drinks beer and eats pasta a bit more than he should.

On one hand, I'm looking to cut a decent amount of fat. On the other hand, it's pretty exciting to get bigger! I'm going to try to steadily do both - by eating cleaner, lifting 4x a week (mostly compound movements), and tossing in some cardio. I'd like to be at 200lb with about 5% less bodyfat than I'm carrying now by the end of the year. No idea what my current BMI is - I just know that my "abs" are pretty much an abstraction right now.

Most people who I know can't really understand my drive to get more muscular - but it seems like there's plenty of like-minded folks here. I'm looking forward to joining the community, and I hope that tossing myself out there will drive me to keep improving my physique. Nice to meet all of you.

For the moment, I've got one pic to throw up.

http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...Picture003.jpg

[omelissokomos]

Welcome to forum, hyooge. I think you'll find a very supportive group here in helping you achieve your goals.

Great username, BTW.

[1bigwoof]

Yep, this group is a pretty supportive bunch as long as you make the effort to do what you say. That's a fine looking gun you have, sir! Welcome to the forum and I look forward to following your progress.

[Hulk2be]

I also welcome you to the forum, hyooge. You and I actually sound much alike, early 30s, new here, lifts regularly, but still has aways to go, and also like you, I don't know anyone offline who shares my muscle interest. Again, welcome to the forum, and feel free to chat me up sometime.

[hyooge]

Thanks so much everyone!

Okay, so today was day one of my new program. I'm doing a three day split routine with Chest/Biceps, Back/Triceps, and Legs/Shoulders. On the days that I'm not lifting, I'll do one hour of cardio - either in the gym, or riding my bicycle outside. I weigh 191lb as of today.

I'm all natural, and I'm supplementing with creatine and whey protein. I'm not tracking diet too closely, but trying to cut out beer, sugar, and excessive carbs - and take in more protein and fiber.

Here's some "starting point" photos - complete with full-on love handles!
I'll keep working to get things looking better - hopefully sooner rather than later. Any critiques are welcome. I'll work to update with new photos at least every two weeks.

http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...G_5663copy.jpg
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...G_5667copy.jpg

[Eager Muscle]

Omg, let me be the first of many to tell you great, GREAT physique you have going for you - even if you did a straight cut without any bulking you wouldn't embarass yourself competing as, what, a lightweight? Others on this board with competition experience are more qualified to make that assertion, but from where I stand you have fantastic potential!

[garrix]

Originally Posted by hyooge

Thanks so much everyone!

Okay, so today was day one of my new program. I'm doing a three day split routine with Chest/Biceps, Back/Triceps, and Legs/Shoulders. On the days that I'm not lifting, I'll do one hour of cardio - either in the gym, or riding my bicycle outside. I weigh 191lb as of today.

I'm all natural, and I'm supplementing with creatine and whey protein. I'm not tracking diet too closely, but trying to cut out beer, sugar, and excessive carbs - and take in more protein and fiber.

Here's some "starting point" photos - complete with full-on love handles!
I'll keep working to get things looking better - hopefully sooner rather than later. Any critiques are welcome. I'll work to update with new photos at least every two weeks.

http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...G_5663copy.jpg
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...G_5667copy.jpg

LOOKING GOOD DUDE! i'd love to be built so well! And those love handels will melt off with the cardio. THey're nothing anyway. You look awesome, and i'd love to have arms like that.

Good legs too! you squat a lot? or just bike?

[1bigwoof]

Originally Posted by garrix

LOOKING GOOD DUDE! i'd love to be built so well! And those love handels will melt off with the cardio. THey're nothing anyway. You look awesome, and i'd love to have arms like that.

Good legs too! you squat a lot? or just bike?

I agree with garrix, too. Your quads/hams/calves all look excellent. The upper body is impressive for a "before" pic. I look forward to seeing your progress. Good luck~

[nj.]

Well ehm, 'before pic'? He's been lifting for years.

Yeah, it seems that the biggest change you could still make for a better physique (not that you look bad!) is a dietary change. The cardio will get some fat off, but the diet is really key, here. And not just a 'let me cut down on the pizza and beer this month'-phase, but something more structural. Doesn't mean you can't enjoy a pizza with a beer every now and then, if it's something you enjoy a lot.

[hyooge]

Thanks so much everyone!

I love doing legs, and hit them twice a week. Deadlifts one day, Squats the other. I always do these movements barefoot - which has done wonders for my stability and overall strength - even if I get all sorts of weird looks for it. I keep the reps relatively high (12-20) and do four sets of each. I was dialing it back for a while as my pants were getting too tight - but then I thought, screw it - I'll just get new pants! It's fun to build huge thighs and make people look twice when you're rocking shorts.

And you're right on the money about my diet - it went to hell a few months back. I was pretty disciplined in the Spring/Summer and that belly was pretty small. But over the past few months I was traveling a lot, eating out all the time, missing out on smaller meals, binging, etc. This lousy diet stole a lot of my energy and motivation too. I won't be too militant about eating clean, but there's a lot of things that I can easily cut out.

Anyway, I'm thrilled that I happened upon this site, and I now feel "under the gun" - but in a good way - to improve and deliver on my goals. Thanks again!

[hyooge]

Just finished up another great workout. I did a few back movements and then followed up with a grueling set of weighted dips. Those are the BEST! I'm planning to shoot some photos and take some measurements in the next few days.

In the meantime, I was thinking about visualizing my goal. For the past few years, I've basically maintained my physique without putting the extra effort into really building new muscle. The desire to grow was kind of abstract. But now I know what to shoot for:

Peter Chown's physique in "Perfect Exceeder"

YouTube - Mason vs. Princess Superstar - Perfect (Exceeder)

Now, I'm not recommending this song necessarily (it's pretty corny), but the video made me look twice when first I saw it a few years back. The guy looks huge - but not insanely big - and really healthy. He's a natural BB'ing champion and a major inspiration for me. I would instantly hire him as a trainer if he wasn't in the UK.

I'm not sure if I could work all the way to his level, but I'd love to have an approximation of his physique. Given how his legs are a bit too big for his upper body - just like mine - I think that we've got similar genetics and a similar frame.

Yes, I'd be a happy man with a Peter Chown body. And if any video directors want to hire me to parade around in short shorts - cheesy soundtrack notwithstanding - I wouldn't say no!

[giantw]

Hehe...yeah, I see the love handles. But quite honestly, they're no big deal. Targetting the abs and obliques and watching your diet will make them evaporate. From what I see your arms and legs look fantastic. It looks like you can out on some serious, jaw-dropping size if you remain committed, and it certainly sounds like you mean business.

Good luck to you. Think about the stares you'll be getting next summer!!!

[DragoniteXY]

Good work!

Your legs are great, especially calves.
Try to focus on your lats a bit more, it will give you that nice V shape and point out your shoulders and pecs.

God speed!

[hyooge]

Thanks everyone!

Okay, so I'm one full week into my new program. Here are my starting stats:

Weight: 190lb
Arms: 16"
Chest: 41"
Thighs: 25"
Calves: 17.5"

I've been lifting every other day and I've cleaned up my diet a lot. I'm working to get enough protein and nailing more than my share of eggs, chicken, and shakes. Overall, I've been feeling great, and a lot healthier than I have over the past year or so.

I'm not expecting any quick results, just slow & steady progress. My midsection is already feeling a bit tighter from eating properly and cutting a lot of the excess carbs that I was taking in.

Here's a full set of photos to kick things off. I'll work to check in with progress and a new shot or two every week. Again, thanks for your support and encouragement. It's been a huge source of motivation!

Upper Body
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ge/week1_1.jpg
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ge/week1_2.jpg
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ge/week1_3.jpg
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ge/week1_7.jpg

Lower Body
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ge/week1_4.jpg
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ge/week1_5.jpg
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ge/week1_6.jpg

And, I just had to give this "pecs from below" angle a try :-)
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ge/week1_8.jpg

[1bigwoof]

Originally Posted by hyooge

Thanks everyone!

Okay, so I'm one full week into my new program. Here are my starting stats:

Weight: 190lb
Arms: 16"
Chest: 41"
Thighs: 25"
Calves: 17.5"

I've been lifting every other day and I've cleaned up my diet a lot. I'm working to get enough protein and nailing more than my share of eggs, chicken, and shakes. Overall, I've been feeling great, and a lot healthier than I have over the past year or so.

I'm not expecting any quick results, just slow & steady progress. My midsection is already feeling a bit tighter from eating properly and cutting a lot of the excess carbs that I was taking in.

Here's a full set of photos to kick things off. I'll work to check in with progress and a new shot or two every week. Again, thanks for your support and encouragement. It's been a huge source of motivation!

Upper Body
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ge/week1_1.jpg
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ge/week1_2.jpg
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ge/week1_3.jpg
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ge/week1_7.jpg

Lower Body
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ge/week1_4.jpg
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ge/week1_5.jpg
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ge/week1_6.jpg

And, I just had to give this "pecs from below" angle a try :-)
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ge/week1_8.jpg

I know many others who would trade your "starting point" for their "ending point." Wow....you've got a great physique already. I can't wait to see where you end up. And the "pecs from below".....

[omelissokomos]

Congratulations on taking this momentous step in your transformation to mega-muscle hugeness. I can't wait to see how you'll be changing in the weeks to come.

[hyooge]

I'm a bit strapped for time this week, so there's unfortunately no pics.

I weighed in today at 188 - which is 2lb less than where I started. I think that it's a positive change in body composition - as my midsection has definitely leaned up and my clothes are fitting a bit looser. I've been consciously trying to eat more and get more protein, but it looks like I've got to up the calories a bit.

I've cleaned up my diet and have knocked out almost all of the grease and beer. Overall, I'm feeling pretty good.

Thanks for your support everyone. I aim to check in with some more progress pics shortly!

[hyooge]

Whoa, one month since I last checked in!

Man, things have been BUSY! I've been keeping up with lifting, but totally slacking on photos and updates. Sorry for that. Work has been nutzo these days.

Current weight is 192lb, and I'm definitely looking and feeling leaner than when I started. Overall, I think that I've put on about 4-5lb of lean muscle since my first post. Given all the Thanksgiving temptations, I'm pretty happy with things. Once I get some time to breathe, I'll follow up with a new round of pics.

[hyooge]

Alright, the holiday slumps are over. I've been pushing weight 3 times a week and getting close to my initial 200# goal - although a bit of that might be residual-holiday-eating weight.

New pics coming soon!

[hyooge]

Hey everyone,

The weather's perking up, and it's been easy getting into the gym a few times a week. Since I started out last Fall, I've put on five pounds and lost a bit of fat in the interim. The winter was pretty hectic, so I'm very happy with this progress. I'm hoping to make much bigger strides over these warm months, and keep shooting for a goal of 200lb with a slightly better bodyfat percentage. I'm bicycling like a madman, so I'm slowly burning down of the fat I have in my midsection.

Workouts have been going great, and I'm feeling really strong in the gym these days. I've been handling heavy weights without breaking form or straining my joints. I mostly stick to compound moments like the bench press, pulldown, upright row, dips, squats, and deadlifts. I almost exclusively use free weights.

Starting weight: 190lb. Current weight: 195lb.

The great SLR camera that I used last year is unfortunately on the fritz, so I had to shoot my progress pics awkwardly close with a camera phone. I'm shopping around for a new camera, so the next set should look a lot better. For the meantime, here's an idea of how I'm looking:

Biceps
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...Picture145.jpg

Legs
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...Picture048.jpg

Again, thanks for all your comments and support!

[1bigwoof]

Wow....you can certainly tell you're a biker! Your quads are hyooooooge! The bicep doesn't look too shabby either. Even if just with a camera phone, please take some more pics. I'd love to see how your chest is coming along. Keep it up!

[hyooge]

Originally Posted by 1bigwoof

Wow....you can certainly tell you're a biker! Your quads are hyooooooge! The bicep doesn't look too shabby either. Even if just with a camera phone, please take some more pics. I'd love to see how your chest is coming along. Keep it up!

Thanks bigwoof! I borrowed another camera for a proper progress pic.
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ChestMay09.jpg

Had an awesome workout tonight, and managed 12 dips with 55lb of extra weight on a belt. I'm working on steady growth throughout the summer.

[garrix]

looking good dude. seems like you're doing well, and i really do look forward to seeing you progress

[hyooge]

Originally Posted by garrix

looking good dude. seems like you're doing well, and i really do look forward to seeing you progress

Thanks Garrix! Had another good workout tonight with all compound free-weight movements. My shoulders have always been a bit lacking, so I'm working them extra hard. I'll check in with more pics and stats shortly.

[1bigwoof]

Originally Posted by hyooge

Thanks bigwoof! I borrowed another camera for a proper progress pic.
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...ChestMay09.jpg

Had an awesome workout tonight, and managed 12 dips with 55lb of extra weight on a belt. I'm working on steady growth throughout the summer.

Looking SUPERB! I know that garrix prefers the furry look but I like the smooth. You can see just how muscular you're getting. Thank you for taking the time to borrow a camera for a better pic. Congrats on your progress and I look forward to additional updates.

[hyooge]

Originally Posted by 1bigwoof

Looking SUPERB! I know that garrix prefers the furry look but I like the smooth. You can see just how muscular you're getting. Thank you for taking the time to borrow a camera for a better pic. Congrats on your progress and I look forward to additional updates.

Thanks again! I'm going to keep them coming. I've gotten a lot of great encouragement from the guys here, and it's totally jazzed me to hit the weights and the food like never before. Hopefully I can keep the updates and growth coming.

[hyooge]

Thanks again! I'm going to keep packing on the pounds. I've gotten a lot of great encouragement from the guys here, and it's totally jazzed me to hit the weights and properly diet like never before. Hopefully I can keep the updates and growth coming.

[WhoDunIt]

Keep it up!

[hyooge]

Hey everyone,

Just a quick check-in. Workouts have been going awesome lately. I weighed in at 195 on the scale today. My weight has kept fairly constant (sometimes 193, sometimes 197), but my body composition has been steadily improving. I usually wear a 34" waist, but I've had to get a few of my favorite trousers tailored, as I'm a 33" these days. The legs are tighter though, so it seems that I lost an inch in my waist and gained one in each thigh. So things are moving in the right direction! I have a lot of cycling to thank for that.

Here's a quick picture of my arm from today:
http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/o...e/Jun09Arm.jpg

I'm really happy with them these days! Looking back at my first shots from last October, I've seen a lot of improvement. I've added about .3" to each arm, and they've looking a lot more defined these days. Ironically, I've made this progress by NOT doing arm isolation exercises. Instead of preacher curls, skull crushers, etc - I only do these two movements for arms:

Biceps: Close grip pull-ups
Triceps: Weighted dips

Now that it's a bit warmer out, I get to pick up a few new tank tops

So the muscles are coming along nicely. Now I've got to finish off these love handles. That's not quite so easy...

Thanks again for your support everyone!

[falseyedee]

excellent progress! your arms have caught up with your quads! keep at it.

[Aikuchi]

Gah! that looks good .... ~~~

[1bigwoof]

It's been a long time.......

[paarke]

Hows it going now?