So... I failed

Last year I had one focus: Get a six pack by the end of 2016.

I’m not sitting here with a chiseled set of abs, so I failed to reach my goal.

Although I’m not happy I failed, it wasn’t all bad. I lost 15kg (33lbs) and reduced my body fat by 10%! I can even run a half marathon 15 minutes quicker than my previous personal best (set over 10 years ago).

A pretty successful failure.

So what have I learnt?

Nutrition was, and still is, my biggest challenge

Before starting my six pack challenge I thought the hardest part would be the exercise involved. The hours sweating in a gym or running around a park was daunting. What I didn’t anticipate was how much my nutrition would have to change, and how much willpower it would take.

Professionals can help you past your plateaus

Halfway through the year I’d lost the majority of weight and hit a plateau where I wasn’t loosing any more. With the help of a trainer I worked on increasing my muscle mass which got my weight moving again. Without the help of a professional I may of been demoralised enough to give up.

Do something, anything, everyday

I wrote this in my first article and it’s a great rule I still stick by. It helps keep consistency in my training even when I’m feeling lazy or have little time. I’ve built many small habits that have snowballed into bigger changes.

Sometimes failure ain’t so bad

Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars — Les Brown

So what’s next?

I’ve been using bodyweight exercise a lot as it fits the “Do something, anything, everyday” rule well. You don’t need equipment and you can do it anywhere, for any amount of time.

For 2017 I want to take my calisthenic practice further and learn to perform a free standing handstand. Building strength and stability in my shoulders and my core. It’s a great manoeuvre to continue my quest for a six pack and with the help of the School of Calisthenics and their Handstand Program I’ve already made great progress.