The Angry Trainer

This has been the most difficult and trying time in my life. It’s hard to smile when you feel like your life is overrun by 24/7 health issues.

Complications from a routine surgery almost cost me my life and I spent 32 days in the hospital.

I left the hospital with an ileostomy bag which I just can’t adjust to. It gives me anxiety around the clock. But it’s temporary so I push through.

Now, another circumstance arises that threatens my life. Once again Michelle drives me to the ER with severe abdomen pain.

It’s getting worse by the second. I’m admitted and yet again…need life saving surgery. I have a twisted and stretched upper intestines creating a total blockage.

My belly swelled like a balloon. I felt like I was going to pop. I’m wretching in pain for hours on end. The meds can only do so much.

I’m being tested. At the same time, I’m also being shown the good in people and how supportive friends and family can be.

I’ll share this - Words Matter. I had one day that was particular bad. I didn’t want to live. The pain was so great I just wanted to not feel it anymore. A nurse grabbed my hand and she prayed with me. She offered words of encouragement and strength. She talked about my beautiful family, my friends and my life.

Her words were powerful. I’m an Italian Sagattarian from New York, in my 50’s - you know, know it all, stubborn etc. She changed my mind in that very moment.

Remember to tell the ones you care about that you love them. Say thank you and please. Wish people a great day when you see them or a goodnight.

Words are free and powerful.

I’m hoping I finally heal and resume living close to what my life was before. Time will tell but for now I wish you all an amazing day. May your day be filled with love, success and happiness.

Most people fail on their health / fitness / weight loss journey.

It’s not because they’re not motivated.

It’s due to:

1. Lack of patience.

Most people expect to see results right away. Think of it this way - you haven’t focused on health and fitness for years. Does it make sense you’ll be swim suit ready in 6 weeks?

Fitness is a marathon, not a sprint.

2. Poor program choice / design.

I see so many people exercising like bodybuilders. Why? If you’re not a bodybuilder don’t train (or eat) like one.

Most people should be utilizing full body circuit training workouts. Master your bodyweight movements first and workout no longer than 30 minutes.

If time allows, try multiple micro workouts : aim for 3 - 4 ten to fifteen minute workouts daily.

3. Poor diet.

Many people think exercise is an eraser of calories. They believe working out somehow negates excess caloric intake. It doesn’t.

You can easily consume 1000’s of calories that you’ll never burn off.

You must gain a grasp of how much you’re eating and what those calories consist of. The people with the most success have mastered their nutrition.

4. Lack of consistency.

I get it. You’re excited. You jump into a crazy routine. You’re driven. Two weeks later, you’re done. It was too much. Too soon. You can’t maintain it. You didn’t see the results you had expected.

No no. Start slow. 3 days per week to start. Pick a plan you know you can stay on. If after the first month, you haven’t missed one workout, then try 4 times per week. And so on.

It’s better to do a little exercise all the time than a lot every now and then.

Consistency wins every time, in EVERY aspect of life. Persistence and resilience pays dividend’s.

If this sounds like you, make a change.

Fitness and health is simple, not easy.

It’s crazy to think that a few weeks ago I almost lost my life.

I didn’t. I fought. 32 days in the hospital and 4 surgeries later (1 to go).

The docs said my fitness and strength helped saved me. Amen.

Now I get to enjoy more magical moments with the angel in my life, my beautiful wife Michelle. She’s so special. Trust me. ❤️

Last night we attended holiday party and it was fantabulous. Yes I used that word. It was so much fun.

If you didn’t know, Seth is an incredible singer. I highly suggest you listen to any of his many albums.

I’m still recovering and have a long road ahead of me, but with Michelle on my arm I feel like a million bucks.

The memories are priceless. Thank you Seth for inviting us. I can’t wait until next year! Life is a blessing.