Hi folks:
Over the last couple of years, one thing I have learned is there no better stress reliever than a good workout. Now, for those of you who are not familiar with my story, nearly three years ago I weighed a whopping 360 pounds. I was with a friend in Montreal to watch an Islanders-Canadiens game.
My friend, having been there before, wanted to show me the sights, so we walked around the city. I nearly collapsed from the exertion.
I decided then and there to get healthy. Since that time, I've lost about 135 pounds, putting me at about 225 pounds or so (depending if I had some pizza) and I've never felt better. When I joined a local gym almost two years ago, I wanted to take my fitness to the next level.
I knew it would help me with my health physically, what I didn't realize was how great a stress reliever it was as well.
During the toughest of times (and I've certainly bored you all with those stories) getting on a treadmill, putting on my MP3 player, there's just no substitute for that for my body and mind.
Look, those of you who know me know I'm the last person who should be preaching to anyone about physical fitness. I certainly am all for being happy for who you are as a person and if you're not accepted for who you are, that's someone else's problem.
I'm not talking about this from a vanity standpoint. But by working out, taking a walk, whatever you can do to be a little more active in your lives, the physical and mental benefits you receive will be immeasurable. You'll just feel better about yourselves.
Doing what I do for a living, I see athletes from the professional ranks to our area kids in peak condition. It's nice to know I'm on my way to finding my peak -- whatever that peak will be.
Take care and God bless.