Time To Get Serious...

Don't worry. I'm haven't forsaken my bread and butter - dopey videos and other goofy nonsense. After watching the last video for the millionth time (because I crack myself up so much), it has come to my attention that I am in rotten shape. The thing is, staying thin was always something I'd taken for granted. It was never something I had to work very hard at. The picture above is me in front of the Capitol after riding cross-country from San Francisco. It was probably when I was at my most fit. My legs were like granite and my ass was like less-fragrant granite. I didn't have a six-pack, but I didn't have the keg that I have now. All of that muscle has been replaced with flab over the last few years and it's time for me to do something.

Rather than join a gym, I've decided to make up my own little (free) exercise routine. Today was the first day and I think it's something I can stick with. I'm starting out with a 1.5 mile uphill bike ride to the base of the local big-ass sledding hill. Then, I climb the 462 steps to the top where I'm rewarded with a gorgeous panoramic view of the lake and downtown (as well as a functional drinking fountain).
Then I climb down and enjoy a nice, breezy cool-down as I coast most of the way home. As my strength and stamina increases, I figure I can add distance to my bike route and reps to my stair-climbing. When winter comes, I can still do the stair part. I'm also going to cut out beer on weeknights (and substitute heroin). Granted, there is the temptation of a Dairy Queen that I'll have to pass each time, but I was able to fight the urge today, so we'll see. All this combined with the healthy food Megan prepares for us should have me back to fighting strength in no time.

Thanks also to Son of a Thomas (and the second by Dr. Zibbs) for their comments on the last post. That was the last little kick in the pants I needed.