ULers may want to look away...

[Montalaskan]

I stepped on the scale today and reached 30 pounds dropped since June. So, to "celebrate", I decided to feel what losing that weight actually means.

I usually carry my camera gear (Nikon D7000, 55-200mm lens, 18-55mm lens, 50mm lens, filters, tripod, cleaning kit, etc.) since it's near the Audubon Conservation Center and I like to snap photos of the ducks, geese, flickers, hawks, owls, eagles, herons and such.

But today, I added something else to my Mystery Ranch Dragon Slayer pack - a 25 pound kettlebell.

So here's what I carried today... probably around 40 pounds with all the other stuff in my pack - dog leash, and so on:



The tripod isn't visible, but it's there.

Funny thing is, the pack carried it so well, I really didn't notice it too much once I adjusted the pack for the load. It's an odd 25 pounds - very dense, as opposed to spreading it over the whole pack.

I almost maintained my usual pace, which is around 15 minute miles. And I worked up quite a sweat because I was dressed for slightly colder temps - it was 35˚, no wind, where the last couple days it was about 30˚ with 20mph winds.

This was a good reminder that when I loose another 25 pounds, it'll feel even better to take hikes.

[rickycodie]

You my friend, are certifiable in my book. I could never do 25lbs extra. I'm a weenie

[Montalaskan]

You my friend, are certifiable in my book.

Most likely.

[Sparkfly88]

I find it fun to challenge yourself.

I collect military gear, and for the heck of it I wanted to see what a nam era soldier carried.

I loaded up a 50 pound alice pack. And 30 pound load bearing suspender system.
Then I jogged with my buddy who's a Sgt in the army While he drilled me with push ups, jumping Jacks, and msc other drills.

I felt like walking jello after four miles of that.

But seeing what you achieved by packing your weight on you lost must feel pretty awesome.

[Dos]

this is awesome.......

[cloudedice]

This is awesome! I know I've got about 30 lbs I'd like to lose, maybe it's time I get started on it.

[Catavarie]

Congratulations on the weight loss. I know it's a battle many of us fight and you sir are and inspiration to keep up the hard work. Even during this the most tempting of seasons.

[Acer]

[QUOTE=Sparkfly88;881422]I find it fun to challenge yourself.

I collect military gear, and for the heck of it I wanted to see what a nam era soldier carried.

then try humping a case of HE rounds, and a case of Illumination rounds for the M 79 grenade launcher plus your pack with personal gear, food and water plus the launcher and a 45 strapped to your waist. You will then get the jist of what a Nam era solder humped. And I couldn't do it again today!

[michigandave]

Thanks for the motivation and putting it all in perspective. Thumbs up to your dedication in losing more than just a few pounds. I'll feel guilty during all the holiday feasting, but now I know what my new years resolution will be!

[priller]

As soon as my feet hit the trail at the beginning of my most recent adventure I was kicking myself for not having trained for the hike with a full pack on. In fact I did no cardio training at all...but I do know that my weight lifting has helped me get stronger.

But definitely need to do some more specific training....