Building The Body

     Last night my trainer proposed the idea of switching our focus from powerlifting/strongman to body building. He thought, in light of the recent issues with my back, that it may just be the safer bet for me. I suppose when even body weight movements are a problem then yes, switching things up may be in order. However, I can't say that I'm not thoroughly upset. I feel like I've failed, miserably, at the one dream I had, that I was actually working really hard on making come true. I feel like this is the universe telling me, "nope, you really ain't good enough, kid."
     But I also know that those thoughts are just my ego talking. It's bruised and as sore as my back is right about now. So I'm working on changing my mindset and looking at this in a rational, unemotional way. For me, that may take a while. What I will eventually realize is that this doesn't mean I'm quitting training. I'm still in the gym twice a week, still able to do stuff at home and in the yard, etc, just like I've always done. This also doesn't mean that I won't get stronger. It's right there in the title: body BUILDER. I'm building my body to make it better.
     I'm also looking at this as a new challenge because it's going to force me to really gain control over my eating habits. What Justin said we'll be doing is training and acting as if we have a competition to get into. We'll set a date for this imaginary meet, and we'll work towards it. I'm going to continue to log my workouts, track my progress and now I'll be adding a food diary into it all. Our goal is to get me ripped, and I suppose at the end of the day, this may take even more dedication and work on my part. 
     I also say this is "our" goal because I truly feel like Justin is right along with me in this. Seems obvious to say, but I've never felt like just a client to him. He's invested in the people he trains and without him, I'd be shit out of luck. I probably would have hurt myself beyond reasonable repair by now and given up. So I owe him a lot. I owe him 200% effort on this and I intend to give it.
     While it's a little bit of a blow to me, I am excited at what I can achieve. I can do almost anything when I put my mind to it, and Odin knows I'm stubborn enough and determined enough. So let's see where this leads. Let's start building muscles, making them pop, and getting ripped. (still feels weird to say that). Who knows, maybe I'll even feel confident enough to put on a pair of shorts this year!