aroundhky

And how far out are you?

I've not noticed a whole lot that I've been able to do to speed up recovery personally. I think age plays the biggest part....and nothing I can do about that. I'm always been eager to get back to the gym and workout more frequently than I already do. I lift about 5 times a week, but would like to do 6-8 times a week (with some two-a-days every once in a while). Though I often like the muscle soreness (let's me know that I really hit those muscles well in the gym), I'm aware that I should not work those muscles again until they have recovered. So here's my approach....... -Get plenty of Protein and some complex carbs the first couple of meals after a workout to start muscle repair -Try to submerge myself in the coldest Water that I can stand a couple of times a week. This goes back to my college football days during two-a-days......really helped me recover then. Some people alternate hot and cold baths. -Stretch before and after workout -"Active recovery"....do some light cardio or walking between workouts. -Plenty of sleep and rest. I set aside Sundays as a rest day every week. Also, I've read where some people on here use supplements like magnesium, zinc, etc. I may try that sometime, but haven't yet.

Congrats "Dimps"!!!

I think look great the way they are! Just sayin'.........

I can see why. I noticed it the second time I looked at the picture.

I see. Are you currently taking anything...testosterone shots/cream, etc? I've read on here a few times that low T can contribute to this issue.

Congrats!! You look great!! One question......I see you holding a bottle of beer. I'll drink a draft beer maybe once a month, and I'm ok if I take my time with it. I hear it has less carbonation than the cans or bottles. Are you able to drink from the bottles without a lot of stomach discomfort?

Awesome! Congrats!

Welcome Anthony! I think you and your wife will be happy about your decision to be sleeved! Wishing you the best!

Oh and Tally......I had been doing a little more cardio and slightly less lifting this summer. But I'm getting back to lifting a good 5 days a week now and 1-2 cardio sessions a week.....(reversed from this summer). That's my personal best ratio for strength while also trying to get or stay leaner. My lifting is usually 4 sessions of heavy lifts with plenty of rest and one session that's more crossfit-like with lighter weights, ballistic movements with very little rest in between sets of hang cleans, high pulls and kettle bell work. My cardio usually consists of sprints or running stadium stairs lasting no more than 30 minutes total. If I'm a little sore, I'll walk for 30-60 minutes instead.

"Tally"........not that I know exactly what to do or have any real nutrition/training education, but I'm curious if I'll see some red flag or something that can really keep someone from getting the most from his/her workout. Since we are all physiologically different with different goals....not sure I can really help, but it can't hurt to take an honest look to see what one is doing. Sure, send me an example of your lifting and eating routine and I'll be glad to look for the same. I agree on women with muscle.....to a certain extent. I think they very much help with a woman's physique just as much as it does for guys. The crazy, out of control bulked up women that are more than likely getting carried away with bulking.....not so much. I guess I draw the line (as far as my preferences go) with a woman that has more muscle than me. Also "Tally"...just from my own experience.....adding muscle and working toward a goal weight doesn't always go together and can slow down weight loss. Ex: Dropping 2 pounds of fat and adding a pound of muscle leaves you with only a pound loss on the scale, but much better body composition (body fat %). You mentioned trying to do both.....which is what I tried doing as well......so it took me nearly two years to get to goal......but well worth it for me!

Sometimes I'm not real sure there's a lot that can be done. Do you do any chest exercises? That's what I'm implementing to help and it seems to be working a little. Also, you seem fairly young low "T", but are your testosterone levels ok?

"Derby"....I think it's great that you are exercising and plan to be active in this. I hear the roller derby is making quite the comeback! Like "Maharet" stated, that is very physical, so make sure you are not only healed, but you've given your body a chance to adjust and get some strength back....which seems to be needed for this sport. Other than that, I say go for it and post some pics when you can! On the skin...........soooo many variables. I think if you have fairly good skin genetics, do resistance training, drink plenty of water, etc., it will help some. Also, being patient with the loose skin after rapid weight loss has stopped...... helps as well. Mine seems just a little tighter with every passing month. Good luck!

Fiddle................. when you get a chance, can you message me what your weekly lifting routine is and also an example of your typcial meals for a day (on days you lift)?

Thanks and probably VERY few want to see such things....... Yes, things really slow down several months after the sleeve....but it doesn't mean the weight loss has to stop entirely. With me 1/2 pound loss a month was better than say a 2 pound gain. . You can do it!

Thanks Curvy/Fiddle! Not going to lie, I am able to put on muscle (and lose it quickly with big cal deficit and cardio), but I also hit the weights pretty hard, with the exception of cutting back slightly the past two months. I also try and eat to support the lifting. I eat a lot smarter to get the most from my lifting. Before surgery, I lifted, and just ate everything in sight.....and crappy foods. Wish I knew then what I know now about nutrition....and even lifting some as well. I have some good genes and bad genes (early baldness and family heart/blood pressure history), but I guess you just play with the hand you're dealt. Fiddle.....hang in there.....work hard, eat right and be patient.......you'll get there bud.

Thanks Betty!

Looking great!!!! Except for the Phillies shirt of course......

Haha!! It's your quick and extensive wit that contributes to your one liner ability! Very impressive!!

Is this a trick question???? As far as "tossing" it.............. Let's just keep calm here and be cool. Deep breath.......don't want to do anything too hasty.

Thanks Butter, but I've been skimping on the "mofo" attempts lately, but hoping to regroup soon and see if I can make another run at the "mofo mojo" and "get my strength on"!

I like the way you think!!

Thanks "tally"! Don't think anyone would say that about the "before" picture.....haha!

Congrats Lovetennis! You're right, there's more to finding the weight you want than seeing or thinking of a number on a scale. I think that's why I've been so slow to lose.....wasn't motivating enough for me.

You're too funny! Then you probably could've found some "edited" front page photos on the local newspaper with headlines that read........"Local man arrested for indecent exposure at local gym....." Naked and cuffed!!