Pardon My Excuses

Hello, there. I haven't seen you in a while. How have you been?

No reply, huh? That's fine. I don't deserve it. Well, this is a little embarrassing... we haven't posted a blog entry since the 22nd of March. See, the thing is, I was actually abducted by aliens, descriptively calling themselves "Purple People Eaters." After narrowly escaping yet another anal probing, I found myself lost in amidst the space-time continuum, finally arriving here yesterday with a sore rectum and clouded memory.

Ok, you got me. I lied. There's no other reason for my laziness other than... well, laziness. However, aside from my anal-inserting tale of abduction, things haven't been too bad. Keep in mind that just because we haven't been posting doesn't mean we haven't been working out. We've been losing weight, lifting weights, and keeping a decent overall fitness level. It hasn't been easy: finals, food, formals, fraternities, fornicating (I wish)... Despite my optimistic alliteration, I'm not too happy with our progress.

Let's talk numbers for a quick second: 

January 2008: 252 lbs.

Summer 2009: 202.3 lbs.

After coming back from winter break: 212.5 lbs.

Before spring break: 185.9 lbs.

After spring break: 201.4 lbs.

Yesterday: 189.1 lbs.

Conclusion: breaks kick my ass.

Now, this is a problem because summer starts in exactly a week for me. At the same time, I leave for Europe on May 26th. My goal is to be seated on that plane at 180lbs. or less. My other goal is to have intense sexual intercourse with Ellen Page. Seeing as the latter is a bit unattainable, I've got about nine pounds to lose. Keeping the Will Smith movie references at bay, it's crunch time (Side note: bunch-a-crunch is delicious. Remember those?) for both my weight loss and my academic progress. I've got finals to study for, papers to write, and hands to keep OUT of my pants. 

That's about all I have for now... Oh, but before I forget, I want to thank everyone that pays any remote attention to this blog, especially one reader that persuaded me to write again. This post is dedicated to you (no homo... okay, maybe a little homo, actually: homo foshomo). 

Respectfully submitted,

- Rob 

How We Break

I think it's about time we got into the details of what EXACTLY it is that we do. Rob and I are, as you may have guessed, workout-ers. We have a goal to get rid of whatever it is that we find to be weak in ourselves and we're taking you along with us in our little escapade.

It's spring break for us, which to many may mean sunny beaches, hot girls, and self-induced stupidity, but for us it means brightly-lit computer monitors, Cloud Strife (I'm not a hater, he's just a pretty hot girl), and some self-induced laziness. I was definitely expecting to get as much of a "break" as possible from all the goings-on at school, working out included. But, being the dedicated people we are, we've decided to take advantage of a free one week membership at Xsport to satiate are iron-filled lust.

So, here is how we plan on breaking: Starting Monday, today, up until Friday, we are going to hit the gym and chisel away at our bodies. How we fair is yet to be seen, but if we stopped working out now, it would be like a fat kid that stopped eating cake. Fitty had it right. We may not be in love, but we definitely like what we got going.

Also: I mentioned earlier that there would be titillating pictures of ourselves in various positions. Fear not, your pants will be wet soon enough.

Peace,
Vin

Live Like You're Livin

It's been a while since we last met and it's about time we've spoken. Recently, I stopped being a "teen." At about a quarter of the way through my life, I can honestly say that I'm a scared shitless.

What is it that has my panties in a bunch? Is it that fact that I'm one year closer to the inevitable end of my existence? Or maybe it's that, in my 20 years of living, I really haven't done much in terms of contribution to society.

Sorry I lied. I was scared. I was afraid of leaving this world behind without having left some sort of mark on it, but then I talked to an extremely wise young woman (or maybe it was because I watched 27 Dresses for the first time... don't hate). With just a few words I was out. Out from the intimacy of the temptress known as fear. Because here's the deal: Whatever happens in the future, we're still living now. I shouldn't need to be on the verge of death to realize that I want to have Scarlett Johannson's babies or enter platform 9 and 3 quarters, or something just as simple as yelling at the top of your lungs for the hell of it after finishing a great workout without feeling the least bit awkward in getting death glares from all the other students outside.

I guess all I can say is this: Keep the future (your goals) in mind, but remember to LIVE while you're achieving them.

Still alive,
Vin

Buzzin'

Although somewhat intoxicated, I feel like I can properly discuss my feelings right now. Also, despite the fact that these letters seem jumbled and unreadable, I have a pretty decent hold on my thoughts and emotions. So, first of all, I'd just like to say: FUCK YES. Pardon my French, but Vinit and I are getting shit done here. This is what it's like to accomplish goals, and I have to say... it feels damn good. After a celebratory Bud Light, morale is high at the Robvin Hood estate. (Yeah, I have little idea what that means either). 

I'm not exactly sure how many people are following us, and frankly, I could care less. It's not that I don't care about our readers, but that's not the reason behind this blog. Popularity is insignificant. I believe that when we work hard, good things will come our way. Vinit's hitting those 3rd stack weights of 55 lbs. and up (joining the big dogs), and I'm at my lowest weight this year (185.7). Feels good... man.

This post doesn't really have a theme, motif, or even any useful advice (mostly because I'm drunk). In all seriousness though, don't give up. That's all I have for you right now. Just don't give up. We all have dreams, some of them more attainable than the others. It's whether or not we back down that truly shows our manliness (or womanliness) and dedication. Lift up your head, feel proud, and strive to accomplish whatever it is you seek. Five minutes ago, I felt like binging. Right now, I'm in control, focused, and ready for anything.

Join me.

Always your friend,

- Rob

*Sigh*

Well, for once, I've got nothing to talk about. More accurately, I've got nothing to say. I just don't have any excuses anymore. I averted a binge on Friday... only to succumb to it terribly on Saturday... It really just disgusts me, not just the fact that I ate like 9,000 calories over the span of about two to three hours, but the fact that it's controlling my life. I had a great workout in the morning with Vin and I wasn't too happy about my weight (190.5), but I sure wasn't about to ruin it even more by overeating. That's not even partially true... the idea of binging was on my mind since about Tuesday of this week, and I acted on it THREE times, each more disastrous than the last. I was so busy eating yesterday that I didn't notice a very important text message until 7:02. The text was about an urgent meeting I was supposed to attend... AT 7:00. Not only did I show up a half-hour late, I showed up bloated and dressed like a lesbian in sweatshirt and sweatpants. The cherry on top: I continued my binge after I got home from the event.

I'm ashamed, I feel guilty, and I feel like I've let a lot of people down: readers of this blog (if any), Vin, Jen, my fraternity brothers, and worst of all: myself. If I can't believe in myself, how can anyone else? The same concept applies: how can anyone love you, if you don't love yourself? Well, let me tell you. I hate myself. Not that I ever liked myself that much... I mean, I've always found flaws even in the best of times. Even at my most confident, I can point out something wrong: whether it be my hair, a random pimple, or my outstanding cleavage. Unfortunately, I'm all out of excuses this time. All I can do now is try to make it up to you... whoever "you" are. I went running for the first time in a while today, and I hope to continue the trend. Sweat, blood, tears... whatever it takes... no pain, no gain, baby.

Signing out, 

- Rob

AAAWWW YEAAAAAAH

I JUST PASSED MY  SECOND EVER 13-STEP SONG ON ITG!!!

MOTHERFUCKING.

INFERNOPLEX. (75.46%) !!!

WOOOOOOOO!!!

If you guys can't tell already, I fully endorse DDR and ITG both as amazing cardiovascular exercises. I'll take more about this at a later date, but right now I'm kind of jizzing all over the place in joy.

Keep dancin',
-Rob

Sweatin' the Small Stuff (Literally)

Yeah... you guessed it. I'm struggling. 

And when I say "struggling," I mean over-analyzing the crap out of little shit and taking massive dumps after going on breakfast food binging sprees. Pardon the potty mouth, but it's really starting to irritate me AND my bowels (last one, I swear). It happens time and time again: sweatin' the small stuff. Blowing things out of proportion is just what I do. To think, spring break is a mere week away and here I am, thinking about the possibility of indulging in several boxes of Oatmeal Creme Pies and an entire loaf of Irish soda bread. 

The weather's getting nicer, I'm getting my schoolwork done, but something keeps bothering me in the back of my head. Before, I thought getting girls involved in my life would solve all my problems. Unfortunately, I've unleashed a whole new realm of stress and sexual temptation; it doesn't help that I'm restricting masturbation (what is this? Day 26?). For all I know, the problems could mean nothing. Then again, they could mean something. Ignorance is bliss... if that's the case, shouldn't I be happy?

Screw it. Really. I shouldn't have to deal with this kind of bullshit. I've got goals to accomplish and minor details shouldn't get in the way. I'm sorry for being redundant, but these are the kind of problems that mess with my psyche on a daily basis. It's over. I've decided. I'm going to fix this problem. My mouth has been kept closed for a long time and I've kept my worries inside. Relationships are founded on trust and honesty. That's why I'm going to be straightforward. No bullshit, and more importantly, no massive binge shits.

With love,

-Rob

3 Questions You Should Have an Answer To (Before Starting your Committment)

Hey! Listen! (Zelda reference nub). Answer these questions below, then check yes or no if you like me. Go.

1) What do you want? Simple question and a simple answer, but without knowing exactly what it is you want to gain (or lose in our case), then it'll be very tough getting your ass off the couch and gettin busy. Ex: I want a six pack and no chubby cheeks.

2) How are you going to get there? Write it down, start a blog, tell someone about it, find a remote that fast forwards through time to a point where you are what you want to be in what seems to be at first a comedic atmosphere but later turns out to be a sad and tragic story, then wake up and realize you need to experience all of life and some things are worth more than others. Have a plan.

3) Is it worth it? Perhaps the deepest and most important question of all, but the answer is again simple. You are going to have to make sacrifices and you will struggle - do the ends justify the means? For us it was a hell yes, but some commitments are harder than others. Make sure you think about this one, because it's a loaded question. I never said to ask yourself "why are you committing?" because this one covers it.

Rob and I didn't sit down together and write down answers to all these questions. Hell, we didn't even ask ourselves them. We know what we want, we know how we are going to get there, and we know that in the end it will be worth it.The most important part is acting on it. E.g. Stop picturing me slathered in caramel, eat your first vegetable, ask the hottest girl in school on a date. They all seem impossible, but you won't get anywhere unless you try. So don't bother asking yourself when you're going to start. If you do that you'll have room for second thoughts. Just do it.

Do you like me?
Yes    More Yes

Peace,
Vin

Home Stretch

Hi, everyone. It's been a while since we last saw each other. I hope you've been working hard, as opposed to hardly working. For me, it's getting down to crunch-time. Unofficial was this Friday and for those of you unfamiliar with the holiday, let's just say it's the University of Illinois's biggest shit show of the year... and, yes, I did take several dumps (not to mention vomiting and passing out by four in the afternoon).

Nevertheless, spring break is less than two weeks away and I am heartily looking forward to it. I have to remember not to slack off, even though it's almost here. Not only that, but I have to make sure not to slack off during it as well. I've already had several fantasies about overeating and baking/cooking in general. Hopefully, I'll be able to keep it under control and not act like a complete walrus. Vinit and I are planning several activities for our week off that will hopefully motivate you and make the site a little stronger. We'll try out a local gym with a 7-day free pass, take part in some body fat testing, and finally, provide some pictures outlining our progress so far. Unfortunately, they're going to have to be non-nudes... (but shoot us an e-mail for a special copy.)

Overall, I think both of us are satisfied with the progress we've made. It was a bumpy road, definitely not easy, but we've come pretty far and it's starting to show. Keep your heads up and stay on the straight line (not that there's anything wrong with being homosexual, but you get my point). It's very important to finish strong, no matter how you started or where you're ending up. Don't slack off just because you're ALMOST there...

...because ALMOST doesn't count.

Good luck,

- Rob

Lucy, You've Got Some Splaining to Do

Now, I don't like the idea of having to explain something after I write it. But it's been brought to my attention that the last couple of posts I wrote were kind of "down." The last was about a death. Nuff said. The "fantastic" one was about not death. So, it wasn't meant to be sad or down. I like to think out loud when I write. And I like to write like I'm talking. I'm also not the greatest writer so I guess the sarcasm I tried using wasn't very effective. In terms of an analogy one might say it was more of a "shit on your face" rather than a mellow golden shower.

I believe that, as things with minds, people should generally think. The best way I do that is by questioning. And I ask you to do the same. Why are you here? Do you get off on the words of two youngins who really don't know much about life? Or are you looking for something more than just an erotic read? Either way, you've come to the write place, but what you get out of it when you leave will be something entirely different (minus an erection or two).

Now, I'm not going to explain the rest of what I was trying to get out of that post (mostly because you can probably think of something better), so.. yeah.

Peace,
Vin

  

Loss

Have you ever felt like there is absolutely nothing in your head? There are no thoughts to hear, just the ambient sounds of a computer fan or leaves rustling that enter my ears, dance around in the little hollow cavity in my head, then exit without much fuss. Earlier this morning I was getting ready for our final lift session before our first goal date. As I gathered my things to leave my dorm, I noticed a missed call on my phone. One of those quick, evil thoughts flashed through my mind. You know, the ones where when your parents are late from work the first thing that crosses your mind is the worst thing that could possibly happen. That's the thought I got.

What I've never actually wondered about is what would happen if those little shit thoughts actually came to life. How would I react? The creep that I am has obviously spent enough time thinking about situations such as these that I should at the very least be prepared for something like this. So, when I called back and found out the worst, I was about as prepared as I thought I would be.

Now, the person that passed is neither a close relative of mine, nor a person that I've said more than a few words to. She, though, has had a tremendous impact on the life of a close friend of mine. I'm not going to go into the details of either of their lives, but what I will say is that we have been aware that she's been dying for quite some time.

I got the call and nothing came to mind. I might have whispered something like, "I'm sorry" and then hung up. I had no idea what to do. How does one react during a situation like this? I always imagined myself tearing up and being angry at the world for some time. What kind of a person has to think about how to feel when someone passes? I, of course, am that person. The idea of having an actual living being no longer exist is so foreign and abstract to me that I still don't think I understand what happened.

She's gone forever and there is nothing I can do about it. They say death is the great leveler. It will take the richest king and the poorest peasant. In the end, nothing we do on this earth will change that. There was an episode of House where the cute doctor says something along the lines of, "when a person dies, someone should cry." This is me crying. The best I can do is say what I'm feeling. Veena, your aunt deserved better than a struggle with lung cancer and you deserved better than to have to watch her fade away. Now that it's over my heart goes out to you. May time do its job in healing this wound.

Rest in peace,
Vin

  

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

Why are you here? I sit here and type away at this keyboard, writing down whatever garbage comes to mind and you sit there and what? Why should you give a shit about two douchebags who preach like they know something? You shouldn't.

The only things these two guys know about are what it's like to suck and what it's like to have things suck. And no, in their case when things suck, there's nothing to swallow. So who are these suckers kidding? How will anything change with their words?

Things don't change with words. You know where this is going: things only change when you're good looking. So until then I'll hide myself behind the light of this laptop monitor, writing about evil Thai chef wizards and pointless philosophical nothings. One day our lightning shaped scars will burn our foreheads and we'll destroy Voldemort. That day destiny will shit its pants and by then, you'll care.

Peace,
Vin

 

Of Goals and Diablo III

It's always important to remember that you won't always get what you want. Just because I have frequent wet dreams about Emma Watson doesn't mean that she's going to give me that handjob anytime soon. (Hey, I can dream, can't I?) I feel like most of my life has been spent waiting for something to happen. It feels like such a waste.... each day, spent waiting for the next. Thoughts like, "I can't wait for spring break," or "I'm going to cum SO HARD when Diablo III is released" invade my mind on a day-to-day basis. It's just not realistic (mostly because Diablo III will tickle me for eternity and never come out on time). Waiting around for something to happen is counterproductive. Don't get me wrong: it's good to have goals or plans for the future, but don't dwell on them too much.

Impossible goals are often the best kind. Well, I guess it depends how many boners you get until that time comes (pun not intended, until just now). Setting ridiculously high goals is a double-edged sword. Although it may act as motivation, the potentiality of not achieving them can deter you from what you actually plan on getting accomplished. I would love to look like Brad Pitt or Edward Norton. Is that realistic? Maybe, maybe not. If anything, it's far away from happening, but I know that if I keep that kind of body image in mind, it will motivate me to work harder. 

Life is filled with unexpected, unimaginable obstacles. These roadblocks often stand in the way of our goals, of our potential-self. I mean, sure, being a pedophile is a punishable offense, but if you like really young girls, you're going to have to push through and face the consequences. Now that you're offended, let me go ahead and suggest that maybe that wasn't the best example... We'll use my friend as an example. This friend of mine has pretty high fitness goals and wants to achieve a body that he's happy with. Unfortunately, girls keep interrupting his focus and screwing with his head in general. Often, failures with the opposite sex tend to lead to binging behavior, mostly through the use of food. (If you haven't figured out it's me yet, go take a bath with a toaster.) These obstacles may mess up my life for a short period of time, but they're inevitable. Everyone goes through their own shit. It's how we handle this hardship that truly defines us.

Remember: Failure is not falling down, but refusing to get up.

Taking the good with the bad,

- Rob

Consequence

So it's been a while since a last post. That would be partly due to laziness on my part and... well yeah pretty much laziness. Sometimes the words come out as smooth as buttuh and other times it's more like the contents of the toilet this morning. Very loose and scattered.

Now on to more important subjects like what I want the world to hear from me today.  Actually, first, I'd like to tell a story. One Saturday night it was decided by a young college student and his girlfriend that they would order in for dinner. A nice Thai place with a vegetarian friendly menu was found close by. Being the ballsy idiot that the boy was, he decided to order the basil vegetable fried rice Very Spicy, which in terms of this restaurant was one less than the maximum spiciness level. Little did this boy know is that the owners of the restaurant decided to cast a spell on him. The effects of the spell he would learn of from the giant flames that burst from his asshole during his countless frequents to the lavatory.

K, great story, now back to real life, not that I know much about it. I think what I want to talk about is consequence. As tired as this sounds, I think it really makes sense. With every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. With every ingestion of heavily spiced food, there is a excretion of hell. Or maybe something like, "if you can't stand the heat, don't eat Thai food." Whatever your idiom, just remember that shit happens. 

Happy sharting,
Vin

Sometimes...

Sometimes, knowing when to back down is hard. Backing down is even harder. Never giving up is a quality that many of us would like to possess: a type of dedication and strength that could overcome even the toughest diversity. Unfortunately, it's not enough. I can safely say that I hate giving up. I don't like backing down. One more rep, one more set, one more workout... no excuses. There's no such things as sickness or fatigue in my book. If it has to be done, you better count on the fact that I'm going do it.

I'm strict on others and I'm even stricter on myself. If I can't be disciplined, what makes me qualified to tell others how to lift or better yet, how to live their lives? If I can't live up to my promise of posting at least once a day here, why do I deserve to have a blog? What makes my opinion matter? Sometimes, I wish people had the same mindset as me, but they don't, and I have to realize that. I have to realize that I can't change anyone but myself.

Sometimes, people will tell you that things "aren't worth it" and that you should just "forget it." Sometimes, they're right. Sometimes... they're not. I guess it all depends on how stubborn you are. For me, it reaches ridiculous levels and I go over-the-top with punishments and restrictions. Whether or not they're justified, it makes me feel better and that's just downright selfish. We all have to strive to keep others' thoughts in mind. We have to help others before we can help ourselves.

Sometimes, change isn't easy. In fact, most of the time, it's not. We have to keep in mind that change is necessary, but we also have to ask ourselves whether it's detrimental or beneficial. If the motives behind a goal are justified, we're clear to proceed. If not, then it's back to the drawing board. Changing a mindset often has to happen first before we can work on tangible items. For me, that's not being stubborn and learning to keep others in mind. For you, well, fill in the blank: _________________.

Always,

-Rob

Music Make You Lose Control

Ever get that to that breaking point where all you want to do is just throw on those headphones and let the mp3 do all the thinking for you? Or how about this: ever listened to a song and then get pumped for whatever it is that you have to do next? Music for some reason, dictates my emotions. I probably go through way too many throughout a day to call myself a guy, but as soon as I get my iPod going, I'm in a good mood and ready for whatever's next.

It's weird that something like music can make me happy. It's pleasing, generally agreeable, is ready for action whenever I want some, and I all have to do is push a button to turn it on. I guess it really isn't that surprising. This post doesn't really have a moral lesson or anything, but it's just something to ponder. For a class, I was required to take a self assessment exercise. At one point, I was asked what gives me energy. The first thing that came to mind was music. Of course, friends and family were on the list, but it was interesting that something so intangible has had such deep impact on my penis. Yes, it was necessary. We can't get too carried away with philosophical ideas and the like. People can't achieve great bodies, and have great minds. So next time you turn on your ipod, don't bother thinking. Enjoy your self prescribed intoxication.

Peace,

Vin

Self-Reflection

Anger, frustration, fury, depression...

These are only some of the emotions controlling my life, not only at this very moment, but for a tremendously long time. Right now, I'm absolutely furious, pissed off. Although punching walls might take away some of the steam, the majority of me wants to take a fucking bite out of the plaster. 

Am I to blame for the way I feel right now? Do I even have the right to be mad, or annoyed, or even complain? Who gives a shit what I'm experiencing or what it's like to be in my shoes? I'm such a loser that I can't even wait for a phone call before possibly ruining a potential relationship. Frankly, I don't give a shit whether that's a plausible or quality problem. I blow things way out of proportion all the time. It's an illness that I'm all but willing to admit. This is even coming right after that inspirational blog about thinking lightly and not letting your own thoughts consume you. Well, I warned you that I'm a filthy hypocrite. I, myself, am the LEAST likely to heed my own advice.

Can I change? Can I stop be such a goddamn pussy and speak up for myself? Can I take the initiative, man up, and take responsibility for my actions? The future seems bleak and at this very moment, I can't help but be pessimistic. I mentioned in the very beginning: health and fitness aren't only about exercising and eating right. Mental health is as important, if not more so. It makes no sense... I should be happy, right? I'm at my lowest weight so far, I like the way I look in the mirror, and I haven't had the urge to binge-eat. Wrong. Dead fucking wrong. This is ridiculous. I feel like shit. 

Then again, is THIS ridiculous or am I BEING ridiculous?

Look up,

- Rob

Quick Fix

One slip up wouldn't hurt... I just got my ass kicked on that last exam. I just need to get my mind off of life right now. I deserve it. I won't do it after today no matter what. I'll eat my way out of this depression and then I'll get right back on track. It’s easy. It’s a quick fix to my quick fix…Thoughts like those are what put me in the “fix” I’m in right now (heheh…).

There are a couple of directions I can go from here. I can say, “Hey you’re right, this is just one of those ‘bumps’ in your road to victory, just get it over with and move on.” Or I can say, “Hey you! Little kittens die every time you bring out your little kitten (heheh…).” Honestly, I had every intention of going with the latter, since it’s the mantra I currently follow (53 days and counting :D), but why?

People have tried teaching me lessons before and it never changed a thing. Why should it for whoever bothers reading this? It won’t. Learn yourself. Satisfy that quick fix; you’ll learn some day what it means to take the road less traveled.

Happy fixing,

Vin

An aside: Stay tuned for more features like: Sounds for your ear's content, more posts for your heart's content, and pictures of us for your.. well we know what you want. ;)

Careless or care less?

A lot of life's problems, though seemingly complicated, tend to have the simplest solutions. Often times, the questions we ask can even be potentially more important than the answers. If I could give one piece of advice to my former self or even my present self, it would be: stop caring so much.

You know, they say that curiosity killed the cat. Those words are a bit more personal for me. In fact, my version of the metaphor would probably be a lot more gruesome. I imagine blood and animal parts everywhere... a sort of serial killer's paradise. Anyway, now that I've scared off any potential readers, let's get to where this blog post is trying to go.

Strangely enough, the past few days have been going very well for me. My confidence is up, my weight is down, and my hands aren't in my pants (well, they are now, but that's beside the point). Looking back, I think I can safely say that I owe it to just not giving a rat's ass. Over-analyzing is like a hobby for me or more accurately, I've made it into a career. Sometimes, however, it's better to stop and NOT think. Thinking too much can harm you both physically and mentally. Caring too much should qualify as an illness, but, sadly, there would be no cure. 

I know I'm getting a bit philosophical here and, frankly, my head is starting to ache (that's probably last night's margaritas still talking). What I'm trying to get at is this sort of split-second decision making. As humans, we're born with an amazing ability to distinguish and make choices rapidly. Most of the time, we're pretty damn good at it too. Today's society is making us think more and more, and that's not necessarily a good thing. Body image issues, social anxiety, relationship problems... these can all stem from analyzing something to death. Take it from me and stop giving a shit.

That being said, I think it's important not to get carried away. Everything in moderation, right? (I wish I could abide by my own words, but I'm a filthy hypocrite.) Don't become insensitive or cold to others just to better yourself. Thinking is something that should be done at all times, but sensibly and with good reason. Next time you catch yourself excessively pondering, ponder this:

I could care less... but is it making me careless?

-Rob 

You Don't Look Like You Work Out..

We've all had that moment. A seemingly innocent conversation with an acquaintance turns deadly with just a few words. I wanna say, "Of course I don't douchebag, that's why I work out." And sometimes I do. Other times a non confrontational "Meh" along with a shoulder shrug is what ends up coming out. In either case, the words cycle through my head for the rest of the next couple of days, slowly manifesting itself into a giant pots and pans robot, waiting for the time when the reincarnation of my past life's true love appears before me... K I'll stop. 

Most people who say things like "you don't look like you work out" or "You really lost five pounds?" tend to be people that don't work out themselves. Anyone who put in the effort towards bettering his/herself would know that it ain't easy. But having haters isn't all bad, because in the end they're probably right. They're just saying out loud what they're thinking in their head and getting defensive won't make you look any better. Only a week or so ago, I had someone use those same words on me. A few days later this blog was born. So before you void your bowels in front of the woman you just realized you don't want to be with (k, that's the last one), try doing something better. Good things will come.

Peace,

Vin 

Balls to the Wall

I want to talk about two things today: judgment and satisfaction.

First of all, I can't speak for everyone but... I have this innate urge to judge everyone at first glance, whether it by appearance, attitude, or just the look on their face. Since I got back from winter break, I've been working on it really hard. Second chances don't come out of me easily (especially when I'm constipated) but I've been giving out third even fourth chances lately. However, recently, I've been struggling again and I can't figure out why. Could it be because I'm a psychology major and the field is governed by interpreting at first glance? Or am I just cynical when I perform poorly in the gym, academically, or in bed? (You wish you even had a chance to demonstrate ANY sexual ability, Rob.) Nevertheless, it's something that's been on my mind for a while now. While I can't point out the exact reasoning, I can definitely be a hypocrite and tell you not to be judgmental of people. Next time you see that fat guy at your gym, don't sneer. Just smile, and give him a pat on the back.

NOW, onto a happier topic... no, not Krispy Kremes... let's talk about satisfaction. Yes, I'm aware that doughnuts are the root of a variety of culinary satisfactions, but this is a health and fitness blog, so I'm going to insist that if you must eat a fried delight... be sure to add some protein powder to it. Seriously, though, after having quite a disastrous binge-filled Valentine's weekend, I'm happy to report my weight is a stable 196.1. Although this means I only lost a lb in a week, the point is: I didn't gain weight. I like that feeling, the satisfaction of a decent weigh-in or the end of a tough workout. Benny Benassi was onto something... Anywho, hopefully, anyone else attaining their goals this week succeeds and carries on to brighter, more physically-fit future.

Yours truly,

- Rob

Don't Look Back

Once upon a time there was a little brown boy who did absolutely nothing with his life. The poor sap got older and older and took notice of his lack of effort. Thoughts like, "Why didn't I just join that basketball camp in the 3rd grade?" and "If I had only told her I liked her.." passed through his mind from time to time. And what did he have to gain from such thinking? WEIGHT. What did he lose? NOT WEIGHT. If there is anything that should be learned from the prospect of our future success, is that we tend to enjoy laughing at male genitalia. Living with regrets also sucks. Don't do it.

Once you've hit the ground running you're probably going to stumble over a few cheeseburgers, some naughty websites, or whatever it was that tickled your pickle. What's important is to learn something from it and move on. Since wisdom can only be learned not taught; let yourself make a few mistakes and do some wisdoming. I don't claim to be an expert, but I do know what it's like to dwell. I also know that if I hadn't made the mistakes I did, I wouldn't have the determination I have now. Taken out of context from the words of a certain Mr. Mathers, "You're too old, let go, it's over."

Until next post,
Vin

Regarding New Beginnings

Have you ever noticed how many people tend to use the phrase, "Starting tomorrow," "Tomorrow is going to be the next day of the rest of my life," or something equally foreshadowing? Why do people insist that change is something that has to happen in the future? There's absolutely no reason for it not to happen at this very instant.

Sure, I'm a victim of these frequent "beginnings" or "restarts." You eat too much over the weekend or get drunk and molest a few children.... You feel bad about it and declare "Starting tomorrow no more overeating" or "On Monday, I'm giving up pedophilia... for good this time!" I also feel like these statements act as excuses. Frequently, during binge-eating episodes, I go through a certain thought process: Well, I might as well eat as much as I possibly can today, because starting tomorrow, I'm dieting HARD. Why do I do things like that? It's absolutely ridiculous. As humans, we should constantly be striving for change every moment of our lives.

Although I'm talking about this right now, just recently (this Monday, ironically), I vowed to a "triple threat" challenge. 1. No binge-eating. 2. No visiting of a certain life-consuming forum. 3. No masturbation. You might be wondering: Rob, what the hell do these three things have in common and why do I now know more about your sexual habits than I ever wanted to?

The first point in the plan is obvious. I want to lose weight and there's no way I can do it if I constantly eat like a walrus. The second and third points have to do with my social life, or lack thereof. Hopefully, this will motivate me to actually make contact with the opposite gender rather than just taking up-skirt pictures from the nearest sewer cover.

Nevertheless, the point here is that we shouldn't be planning change, but actually changing. Words are meaningless unless you back up your talk with action. How many of you have failed your New Year's resolutions already? Think about it. Your porn addiction isn't going to go away by itself. Whatever your goals are, start them NOW, rather than later. You'll be glad you did.

-Rob.

Word Can't Express..

On my walk through winter Alaska back from a run, I thought to myself how I would word this first post of mine. Unlike Rob, I just can't seem to grasp the nuances that distinguish a good writer from me. How does one squeeze in sarcasm, metaphor, irony and penis between all those tightly packed words?

But alas, the thought of working to make myself better tires and depresses me. On to more interesting topics like the amount of sweat and other delicious bodily juices caked onto my armpits and testicles.

Speaking of testicles, today's workout consisted of a 5 minute warmup run on a treadmill, a 5 minute stretching, and 20 minutes of narrow escapes from collapsing lungs. What's funny is that just this past fall I had partaken in a half marathon and actually finished it alive. This may be my first time to run since then, but I guess this is what this blog is about. To actually get up off our asses and do something worth doing.

That and cake batter protein shakes. Mmm. cake batter..

Peace,
Vin

Mmm... Cake Batter...

As I sit here in the undergraduate library, I think to myself: boy, I sure am hungry. Actually, it's more like: Christ, I'm starving! I'd love to go back to my dorm room and make myself a nice protein shake. I get moist just thinking about that prospect.

That got me thinking about protein powder. Although I don't have any scientific evidence to back this up, I'm pretty sure it's safe to say that most avid weightlifters are taking some sort of added protein supplement. Even though I'm curious as to what everyone uses and how they do so, I don't have the time nor patience to listen to that sort of tomfoolery.

Nevertheless, I thought I'd share what kind of powder I'm currently ingesting and maybe offer a short review as well. Back in the day, when my only concern was cash, I used EAS purchased from the local Sam's Club for about 29.95/5-lb bag. Not only was the taste absolutely horrendous, but it mixed poorly and made me want to rip my tongue from the inside of my mouth and throw it against the hard pavement.

Ever since December, however, I was introduced to the glory that is Optimum Nutrition 100% Whey. This stuff is orgasmic, to say the least. I started with the double chocolate flavor and fell in love instantly. Unfortunately, I ran out midway through last week... but found something equally as succulent if not more so.


Same brand, same protein intake, whole new party-in-my-mouth sensation. I'm not sure if selling protein powder this delicious is legal. It's as if they're marketing liquid sugar cookies. After a workout, I have two scoops of this with about 8oz. of skim milk and I nearly ejaculate all over the floor. Yeah, it's that good.

I'd recommend this to anyone looking to supplement their diet with a little extra protein. The taste is phenomenal, it mixes well, and the price is pretty good too. I got a 5-lb container for about 38 bucks at fitrx.com with free shipping. Awesome. 5/5

Cheers,
- Rob.

V-Day Thoughts

Discipline.

I'm always amazed at how vast amounts of emotion, meaning, and importance can be translated into one word. Language is astounding. How can something so small, so insignificant be so hard to attain? How can one, 10-letter word take years to understand and accomplish?

When one thinks of the words "diet" and "exercise," discipline is not unrelated. Whether it's putting down that last beer or saying "no thanks" to that extra slice of pizza, discipline is something universally associated with achieving both a better body and a better lifestyle.

On an somewhat unrelated note, Happy Valentine's Day... or as I like to call it: Singles' Awareness Day. I'm discussing discipline today because, well, frankly, I have none. Although I've struggled with binge eating for a majority of my lifetime, recently it's been under control. Ah, yes, but then the female species comes along and rips my heart out from underneath my developing pecs. "Let's just be friends," she said. "Let's just gain 5 lbs. in two days," I replied. Like a walrus, I gorged my way through an inconceivable amount of food, and here I am on February 14th, feeling sorry for myself and being set back at least a week.

How did this happen? I ponder to myself. Who do I blame for this? My mind starts racing. Well, clearly, it's that girls fault for rejecting me so suddenly. Or is it society's fault for giving us such high standards for romance and physical appearance? No, no, it's definitely the food's fault for being so goddamn delicious.

Nope. It's my fault.

I let this happen. The emotional burden was too hard to bear, so I buckled. Food became my crutch and I leaned on it until my girth broke the support. In other words, I "racka da discripine."

South Park references aside... I've come to realize that discipline is an absolute necessity in our lives. Not just when it comes to diet and exercise, but also when it comes to our social lives, our academic lives, and even the most mundane day-to-day events.

In the words of a anonymously courageous wolf:
"Suffer the pain of discipline or suffer the pain of regret."

Happy Valentines Day,
-Rob.

Oh, hello. I didn't see you there.

-Hello and Welcome!

Our names are Rob and Vin. We are two college students on a mission of sexual proportions. From this day forward, we dedicate our free time (whatever little that may be) to eating right, lifting heavy shit, and bettering ourselves.

This blog is for the sole purpose of self-improvement, mainly health and fitness. Join us on our journey in becoming Greek gods, both figuratively... and literally. Not only will there be posts regarding our strength gains and weight loss, but there will be a myriad of other goodies. Reviews, tips, advice, hotlinks to porno sites... it's all here for you.

We're dropping to our knees and lifting from the ground.

-Robvin Hood.