End of the Pre-Winter Arc
Seven days passed since my last entry, and Sunday officially closed my Pre-Winter Arc.
The result surprised me more than I expected.
Since November 1st, I’m down 12 lb, and I’ve increased reps on almost every exercise. That alone feels unreal to write.
Progress I Didn’t Believe Was Possible
I won’t sugarcoat it. I didn’t expect progress.
I’ve been trying to lose weight and regain strength for so long that success felt theoretical. Like something that happens to other people who somehow figure it out.
Back in October, I couldn’t do a single proper push-up without cramping.
Now I can do 10 normal push-ups or 20 incline push-ups without much trouble.
That might not sound impressive to some, but for a sedentary, large man like me, it matters. A lot.
I’m now at a point where I can follow a regular workout plan and build from there. I still adapt my sessions because I’m not strong enough yet for some calisthenics movements in my course, but that’s fine. The foundation is finally there.
Nutrition wise, well… shit.
Calorie deficit works.
I used to think it was a scam. Turns out it’s just painfully boring and brutally effective. Planning meals, prepping food, cooking accordingly, and measuring everything is the key. It sucks. It really does. But it’s a necessary pain if I want real results.
Now the holidays are in full swing, and yeah, I already went over my calories on some days. That’s why I track weekly instead of daily. Sometimes I go over by 1000 calories, damn cheeses and charcuterie boards. Then I adjust. Eat lighter the next day or push a bit harder in training.
Calories in. Calories out.
It’s not magic. It’s math.
The real challenge now is finding balance. Restraining myself enough to stay consistent while still enjoying the holidays without guilt.
Mood and energy wise, I’m tired. Not injured. Not broken. Just exhausted.
Cooking, handling most of the household chores, long commutes to work… it adds up. I feel the pushback. But I also feel the progress.
And that’s new.
“You don’t need to believe in progress for it to work. You just need to show up long enough for it to prove you wrong.”
Right now I feel…
Exhausted, but grounded. Tired in my body, clearer in my mind.
What Did I Learn Today?
That progress can happen even when you doubt it.
That calorie deficit works, whether you like it or not.
That small strength gains compound faster than expected.
What Challenge Did I Face?
Managing fatigue while staying consistent.
Balancing holiday food with long-term goals.
Accepting that discipline is boring but effective.
Workout
Notes
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