So, as those in my personal life may know, I have decided to take a lot more control over my health and fitness. I started working out 6 days a week, yes doing crossfit, and yesterday, I started a 24 day challenge. The challenge includes a 10 day cleanse and 14 days of proper eating, and supplements. Why did I do this? It is not because I need to lose weight. I highly doubt I'll lose more than 1 pound and that's OK. I'm looking at increasing my health, physical and mental. The older I get, the more I see people, even those my own age, doing nothing, not moving, body aches and starting to put limits on their lives. I refuse to let my body stop me from being happy and enjoying every minute that life has to offer. A few years ago, I had a shoulder surgery. And after my shoulder healed, I was told the strength I had then, and the lack of range of motion were as good as it was going to get. To put things in prospective, I couldn't scratch my back, I couldn't do the monkey bars at a park. I was told to accept my limitations. I found fitness and eventually joined Iron Warrior Crossfit into their Warrior Fit class. It is more of an introduction to crossfit, gives a great workout and teaches the fundamentals of crossfit, nobody has to move to crossfit, but it was a goal of mine. I quickly moved through that class and into crossfit and haven't looked back since. I have gained many friends as well as achieved fitness goals through the community build here. In addition to crossfit, I signed up for one on one mobility sessions with Sherry Hopkins, who is one of the owners of Iron Warrior Crossfit, as well as regular sessions with Nora Zoma for chiropractic treatments. And adding supplements from Advocare to help with my recover post workout. With all of these things, I have never felt stronger, more confident, and happier. My range of motion, although not back to before my surgery, has improved dramatically, my shoulders and grip strength are not only strong enough for monkey bars, but knocking out 100 pull ups or my personal record of a 345 lbs deadlift are no problem, on my way to 400 lbs by the way. Why am I saying all of this? Because it is a new year, and I'm striving for a new and better me. I can't wait to see where my health and fitness are after 2016 is done as well as after the 24 day challenge, and beyond. I wish for others to live a long and happy life as well. Happy 2016 everyone. Make of it what you will, just don't make excuses. read more