"I was frustrated, tired, and miserable!"
The new year was swiftly approaching! Kelsey and I were determined to get in the best shape of our lives in 2010. There was one huge problem, I was in constant pain. I'll get to that later. I had accepted a leadership position as an assistant principal at an elementary school in the summer of 2009. Besides the long commute and spending 3- 4 hours of my day in my car, that I affectionately nicknamed the White Unicorn, I was excited about my new opportunity.
My hard work in graduate school was paying off and my professional future was bright. Working with elementary students was awesome! My rockstar status was at an all time 10. Students were impressed by my Chewbacca impersonation during lunch and they would reward me with cartons of fat free chocolate milk. I didn't realize that my new found "fame" with the kids was taking a toll on my body.
The day began at 5:00am with breakfast, eggs and 2 pieces of toast. I would sit down for lunch at around 2:00pm. My lunch was a tuna sandwich and lentil soup. I would later eat supper around 7:00pm after my commute home. Kelsey and I would eat chicken and pasta. Our favorite meal was beefy macaroni and cheese. After dinner we would head to the gym. Now, in between meals, my body was fueled by sunflower seeds, energy drinks, and fat free chocolate milk, of course.
By November, my new habits began catching up with me. My energy level was at an all time low. I was drinking 3 energy drinks per day and still running on fumes. My slacks were becoming snug in the waistline and worst of all my back pain was slowly returning after living pain free for 10 years.
My mood was also changing. I was frustrated, tired, and miserable! Then, late one night the unthinkable happened. I could not get out of bed. A searing pain was piercing down my leg and in my back. It was hard to catch my breath. Kelsey helped me out of bed as tears streamed down my face. Morning could not come fast enough. I needed to go to the doctor. I needed help. I explained to my doctor that this was an old football injury. I sustained two herniated discs years ago and they had flared up.
The doctor prescribed me an anti-inflammatory for my back and assured me everything would be fine. He then explained that he was also going to prescribe me a low dose of blood pressure medication to help with my high blood pressure. I was shocked! I was 29 years old and physically active. I refused to take medication daily to correct my blood pressure. There had to be another way. I was determined to correct my health through proper nutrition and exercise.
Kelsey and I made a commitment for the new year to invest in our health. We spent hours researching new workout routines and educated ourselves on the benefits of training every muscle group. After 8 weeks of training consistently, we knew we had not reached our full potential. Kelsey suggested that we hire a nutritionist and begin educating ourselves about proper nutrition. We hired Kim Porterfield at the Institute of Eating Management. Kelsey and I were finally on the path to becoming our best. I began my fitness journey at 24% body fat. Kim explained to me that if I did not reduce my body fat, I would continue to experience high blood pressure.
She also informed me that I was not eating enough to achieve my fitness goals in the weight room. I was confident that my nutrition plan would improve my health. 12 weeks later I had transformed my body and mind forever. I share this story with you because I know what it's like to feel absolutely trapped in your own body. Through setting small goals and staying consistent with nutrition and exercise I was able to change my life.
We now have a baby girl and look forward to teaching her the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Going on five years later, my health is still improving. Kelsey and I live a balanced life. My family is the most important reason for me to continue to live a healthy lifestyle. I want to be the best for my family.
All the best,
Kent
