One of the advantages to tracking body fat percentage is that it will tell you how much you SHOULD weigh- sort of.
Currently, I weigh 249 pounds. 24.8% of that is lard (61.76lbs). For men, 15% body fat and under is considered "fit". There are some made up categories now too like "average" and "acceptable" that are higher. I don't care about those. My current goal is 13%. Assuming the same lean mass, what would I weigh if I was 13% body fat and technically "fit"?
Algebra. Who said it isn't useful?
I know my lean mass is 187.24 lbs. If my body fat was 13%, my lean mass would be 87% right? SO, in order to find my goal weight:
X*.87=187.24
187.24/.87 = X
X = 215.22lbs
Let's check our work!
215.22 * .87 = 187.24 YAY!
More Math:
215.22 * .13 = 27.98
My current bodyfat in pounds is 61.76. At 13% body fat it would be 27.98 pounds. Therefore, I have 33.78 more fat pounds to lose to get to my goal.
In summary, when I reach 215 pounds, I should be at my goal.
WAIT A SECOND!
215 pounds!!!?? That's WAAAAY to heavy RIGHT??!
Wrong. This is exactly what I should weigh.
What about the BMI Charts?
If you look up my height (5'9") on the body mass index then it appears for me to be in the middle of the "healthy" BMI zone that I should weigh about 150 pounds. Excuse me? That's 65 pounds less!!!!!!!!!!
BMI is a load of garbage. Maybe if I was a starving refugee that weight would make sense. With my current make-up, it's not even possible. In fact, if I had ZERO fat- NOT EVEN AN OUNCE, I would weigh 187 pounds. That puts me in the middle of the overweight category moving toward obese.
Arnold Schwarzenegger in his prime was something like 240 pounds when he competed. He was also about 6'1". That puts the former multi-Mr. Olympia into the obese category.
See a pattern?
BMI is STUPID. It's a height-weight calculation and nothing more. It doesn't take into consideration bones, muscle, fitness, or genetics. IGNORE IT ALWAYS. It has no value at all.
Body fat measurement owns BMI all day long every day. Focus on that.
Fatty out.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Monthly Measurements (July)
Weight: 249 (without shoes)
Body Fat %: 24.8
-Fat weight: 61.76 lbs
-Lean weight: 187.24 (muscle, bones, tendons, etc..)
Total mileage logged in the month of June: 113 miles
Total monthly fat loss: -2.98 pounds
Total monthly lean mass change: -1.02lb
Total monthly body fat % change: -0.69%
GOAL CHECK: (from 12/1/09)
1.) Lose 35 pounds of fat
Down about 25.65 pounds of fat since the first of December. This one isn't looking too great right now. Is it possible? Yes. Likely... no. But, I'll get as close as I can.
2.) Get to a consistent pace of 9:45 a mile or better
This one is straight up DONE. No prob.
3.) Be able to run 6 miles at the 9:45 pace twice twice a day.
I feel like this one is pretty much done too. I'm not worried at all.
Time Left to acheive goals: 0.5 months. WOW!
Body Fat %: 24.8
-Fat weight: 61.76 lbs
-Lean weight: 187.24 (muscle, bones, tendons, etc..)
Total mileage logged in the month of June: 113 miles
Total monthly fat loss: -2.98 pounds
Total monthly lean mass change: -1.02lb
Total monthly body fat % change: -0.69%
GOAL CHECK: (from 12/1/09)
1.) Lose 35 pounds of fat
Down about 25.65 pounds of fat since the first of December. This one isn't looking too great right now. Is it possible? Yes. Likely... no. But, I'll get as close as I can.
2.) Get to a consistent pace of 9:45 a mile or better
This one is straight up DONE. No prob.
3.) Be able to run 6 miles at the 9:45 pace twice twice a day.
I feel like this one is pretty much done too. I'm not worried at all.
Time Left to acheive goals: 0.5 months. WOW!
Thursday, July 15, 2010
P90X may be my new BFF
Okay, so I've been doing the P90X workouts for a week and two days. Since I've begun, there has not been a time when I wasn't sore somewhere.
I'm a little hesitant to say that it's going to change my life... But, it seems like it's heading that way.
If you don't know what it is, P90X is a series of hardcore exercise videos. (the "X" stands for extreme) It's a system designed to be done for 90 days in multiple phases. The idea is to keep your body guessing, not adapting. When you do that, you get more results.
Well, my specs after week one were promising. I lost about 3 pounds. BUT, the biggest thing is that I lost almost a full % of body fat. That's amazing. It hasn't yo-yo'd back during the last few days either which means those are real results. I'll be checking in on the body fat and weight thing once a week (Sunday mornings).
Ok, this is the really weird thing. I've still been running while doing this, which is beyond what it calls for. But, my speed has increased, even at distance. I did a 7.5 mile last week. Normally my pace for that distance is going to average out to like a 10:30 per mile. I beat that by a full minute per mile. Other runs I've done show similarish increases. I can't really explain that. The only thing I've really changed is adding P90X. But, theoretically it shouldn't help with endurance running. I'm a little stumped. But, I like it. I'm pumped to see what will happen after another week or two!
Lastly, the great thing about these videos is that my wife can do them. Even better- she HAS been doing them. She's not quite as consistant, but she's starting to see changes already too. Sweet.
I'm a little hesitant to say that it's going to change my life... But, it seems like it's heading that way.
If you don't know what it is, P90X is a series of hardcore exercise videos. (the "X" stands for extreme) It's a system designed to be done for 90 days in multiple phases. The idea is to keep your body guessing, not adapting. When you do that, you get more results.
Well, my specs after week one were promising. I lost about 3 pounds. BUT, the biggest thing is that I lost almost a full % of body fat. That's amazing. It hasn't yo-yo'd back during the last few days either which means those are real results. I'll be checking in on the body fat and weight thing once a week (Sunday mornings).
Ok, this is the really weird thing. I've still been running while doing this, which is beyond what it calls for. But, my speed has increased, even at distance. I did a 7.5 mile last week. Normally my pace for that distance is going to average out to like a 10:30 per mile. I beat that by a full minute per mile. Other runs I've done show similarish increases. I can't really explain that. The only thing I've really changed is adding P90X. But, theoretically it shouldn't help with endurance running. I'm a little stumped. But, I like it. I'm pumped to see what will happen after another week or two!
Lastly, the great thing about these videos is that my wife can do them. Even better- she HAS been doing them. She's not quite as consistant, but she's starting to see changes already too. Sweet.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
NEW GEAR and a SECRET WEAPON
I've been measuring my body fat using a tape measure and a formula. It works. It's a great and cheap way of tracking progress. However, I secretly wanted a body fat tester for a long time. There are lots you can use. The easiest is bioelectrical impedance. It's pretty accurate too. More so than a tape measure probably.
In honor of my pursuit of fitness and as bribary to shave the goatee thing I was sporting for a while, my wife let me buy a few things.
1.) A body fat tester. It's only about $30. You put your info in, hold it, and push a button. Easy. Now, it does measure me about 1.75% higher than the measuring tape. But, that's pretty good for a $3 piece of vinyl with inches printed on it. (Actually, I always used centimeters to get a closer measurement)
2.) A heart rate monitor. My handy heart rate watch thing died. To be most efficient in your running training, a heart monitor is super helpful. You wear a strap that watches your rate and transmits to a watch. You know right where you are at all times. This JUST arrived like 20 mins ago. I haven't even opened it. But I am pumped.. Get it?
3.) My secret weapon. For those that know me, the fact that it came from an infomercial should be no suprise. One word: P90X. This is what's going to help me shred the rest of my lard. I was a little skeptical too. But what put me over the fence is a strong endorsement from my uncle. He's done marathons, Ironman Triathalons, Ultramarathons, and now does crazy adventure races like Ecochallenge (look it up- think EXTREME). He said P90X has him in the best shape of his life. Sold. I have high expectations for this bad boy. So far, it's really good. Plus, Natalie and I have been doing it together! Bonus!
Thanks Honey!!! :)
In honor of my pursuit of fitness and as bribary to shave the goatee thing I was sporting for a while, my wife let me buy a few things.
1.) A body fat tester. It's only about $30. You put your info in, hold it, and push a button. Easy. Now, it does measure me about 1.75% higher than the measuring tape. But, that's pretty good for a $3 piece of vinyl with inches printed on it. (Actually, I always used centimeters to get a closer measurement)
2.) A heart rate monitor. My handy heart rate watch thing died. To be most efficient in your running training, a heart monitor is super helpful. You wear a strap that watches your rate and transmits to a watch. You know right where you are at all times. This JUST arrived like 20 mins ago. I haven't even opened it. But I am pumped.. Get it?
3.) My secret weapon. For those that know me, the fact that it came from an infomercial should be no suprise. One word: P90X. This is what's going to help me shred the rest of my lard. I was a little skeptical too. But what put me over the fence is a strong endorsement from my uncle. He's done marathons, Ironman Triathalons, Ultramarathons, and now does crazy adventure races like Ecochallenge (look it up- think EXTREME). He said P90X has him in the best shape of his life. Sold. I have high expectations for this bad boy. So far, it's really good. Plus, Natalie and I have been doing it together! Bonus!
Thanks Honey!!! :)
Stuck Between a Run and a Fat Place
Fatty's progress is stagnating. Last month I ran well over 100 miles but only dropped a HALF pound of fat. Pathetic.
I know exactly what my problems are.
1.) I now have conflicting goals. Improving at running and losing fat are fighting against each other. The reason is simple. I do too much running. When focusing on losing fat, you are supposed to switch up your exercise every 6 weeks or so. Otherwise your body adapts and you burn fewer calories overall. Well, let's see. I've been focusing on jogging/running since December. That's 30 weeks!! I'm adapted. Since, I've been training to run a race, I have been hesitant to move away from running too much.
2.) I'm losing a little muscle. Now some muscle loss is totally normal when losing a lot of weight. But, I'm having a hard time keeping up my protein. Also, the longer runs burn protein. It's a tricky balance. I'm not maintaining it very well right now. So, I HAVE to add some resistance training. I started that this month. I know I said you don't need this prior to 35 years old. I stand by that generally. However, my inconsistent protein intake mixed with my longer runs and my body adapting to running... It's a recipie that results in burning the good stuff too. Not acceptable. Weights, here I come. :)
PLAN:
Keep running about 4 times a week (less than I have) in order to MAINTAIN. Meanwhile, add resistance training. Unfortunately, this means more exercise overall and therefore more time spent. After Hood to Coast I can cut back on the running. Until then- forget it.
I know exactly what my problems are.
1.) I now have conflicting goals. Improving at running and losing fat are fighting against each other. The reason is simple. I do too much running. When focusing on losing fat, you are supposed to switch up your exercise every 6 weeks or so. Otherwise your body adapts and you burn fewer calories overall. Well, let's see. I've been focusing on jogging/running since December. That's 30 weeks!! I'm adapted. Since, I've been training to run a race, I have been hesitant to move away from running too much.
2.) I'm losing a little muscle. Now some muscle loss is totally normal when losing a lot of weight. But, I'm having a hard time keeping up my protein. Also, the longer runs burn protein. It's a tricky balance. I'm not maintaining it very well right now. So, I HAVE to add some resistance training. I started that this month. I know I said you don't need this prior to 35 years old. I stand by that generally. However, my inconsistent protein intake mixed with my longer runs and my body adapting to running... It's a recipie that results in burning the good stuff too. Not acceptable. Weights, here I come. :)
PLAN:
Keep running about 4 times a week (less than I have) in order to MAINTAIN. Meanwhile, add resistance training. Unfortunately, this means more exercise overall and therefore more time spent. After Hood to Coast I can cut back on the running. Until then- forget it.
Monthly Measurements (June)
Weight: 252 (without shoes)
Body Fat %: 25.49
-Fat weight: 64.74 lbs
-Lean weight: 188.26 (muscle, bones, tendons, etc..)
Total mileage logged in the month of June: 113 miles
Total monthly fat loss: -0.5 pounds
Total monthly lean mass change: -0.5lb
Total monthly body fat % change: -0.10%
GOAL CHECK: (from 12/1/09)
1.) Lose 35 pounds of fat
Down about 22.67 pounds of fat since the first of December. I'm behind now. But I have a secret weapon. Details to come.
2.) Get to a consistent pace of 9:45 a mile or better
I can do this. It's not my most comfortable pace. But, I can do it.
3.) Be able to run 6 miles at the 9:45 pace twice twice a day.
I haven't done this yet. But, I think I'll be there without a prob.
Time Left to acheive goals: 1.5 months. YIKES!
Body Fat %: 25.49
-Fat weight: 64.74 lbs
-Lean weight: 188.26 (muscle, bones, tendons, etc..)
Total mileage logged in the month of June: 113 miles
Total monthly fat loss: -0.5 pounds
Total monthly lean mass change: -0.5lb
Total monthly body fat % change: -0.10%
GOAL CHECK: (from 12/1/09)
1.) Lose 35 pounds of fat
Down about 22.67 pounds of fat since the first of December. I'm behind now. But I have a secret weapon. Details to come.
2.) Get to a consistent pace of 9:45 a mile or better
I can do this. It's not my most comfortable pace. But, I can do it.
3.) Be able to run 6 miles at the 9:45 pace twice twice a day.
I haven't done this yet. But, I think I'll be there without a prob.
Time Left to acheive goals: 1.5 months. YIKES!
Saturday, June 12, 2010
HALF MARATHON
So, I've been interested in signing up for a half marathon. There's this one on 4th of July that's pretty flat. BUT, it's like $60 to sign up and another $22 if you want the t-shirt. I really don't want to shell out that kind of dough. So, I figure I'll see what happens. Maybe I can do one on my own.
Well today I went running with a couple of guys from church. We plan out a route of 8.7 miles and hit it this morning. Now, my previous milage high in one session was 10.5 miles set when I was like 18. I've been meaning to beat that.
I'm doing the 8.7 with the guys today and I'm feeling good. So, I tell them goodbye at the end so I can get to 11 miles- a new high. But, why stop at 11 when 13.1 is a half marathon right? So, I didn't. I did ALL 13.1 miles on the flat Springwater Trail.
Granted, it took me a full 2 hours and 25 minutes. That translates to a pace of about 11:05 a mile or about 5.5 mph average. I was pretty tired at the end. I'm pretty sure I was out of glycogen (suger for muscles) which is what it means to "hit the wall". If I had planned it better, I would have some more stuff to eat and drink to maintain the suger. If so, my time would have been better. In any case, I can now say that I've completed a half marathon. Picture a fat, short-legged dude busting out over 13 miles. It's okay to laugh. I mean.. I would.
Lastly, I want to give props to my new jogging partner Eric Moffat. He's joining me at 5:30am 4 days a week to bust out 6-7 miles. It's speaking to me. He's a big part of why my total milage this week is 37.77- also a new record for me. Thanks Eric!
Fatty Out.
Well today I went running with a couple of guys from church. We plan out a route of 8.7 miles and hit it this morning. Now, my previous milage high in one session was 10.5 miles set when I was like 18. I've been meaning to beat that.
I'm doing the 8.7 with the guys today and I'm feeling good. So, I tell them goodbye at the end so I can get to 11 miles- a new high. But, why stop at 11 when 13.1 is a half marathon right? So, I didn't. I did ALL 13.1 miles on the flat Springwater Trail.
Granted, it took me a full 2 hours and 25 minutes. That translates to a pace of about 11:05 a mile or about 5.5 mph average. I was pretty tired at the end. I'm pretty sure I was out of glycogen (suger for muscles) which is what it means to "hit the wall". If I had planned it better, I would have some more stuff to eat and drink to maintain the suger. If so, my time would have been better. In any case, I can now say that I've completed a half marathon. Picture a fat, short-legged dude busting out over 13 miles. It's okay to laugh. I mean.. I would.
Lastly, I want to give props to my new jogging partner Eric Moffat. He's joining me at 5:30am 4 days a week to bust out 6-7 miles. It's speaking to me. He's a big part of why my total milage this week is 37.77- also a new record for me. Thanks Eric!
Fatty Out.
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