... On training like or with a champion.

Yesterday I had the opportunity to workout with Ken Young (BFL 2004 Champion, Mens 26-32 Category) ... He's 'an animal' in the gym. By example others can learn what the true meaning of intensity is. This was by-far the best lower body workout I'd experienced since starting on the BFL lifestyle. All I can say is "Wow!" ... Now I know what's kept me from making the progress I would have liked to see in earlier 12-week challenges. Looking forward to the UBWO which we agreed would be next ... I'm going to find me an occasional workout partner so that I can benchmark my progress ... Don't know if one needs a trainer-spotter-coach-friend-partner at every workout; but my legs are still sore from yesterday and I know this is the feeling of progress.

1, 2, 3, 4, ... and maybe more!

Tomorrow EAS will be posting the results of the 2004 BFL Challenge.

I've learned thru my network of contacts that several of my BFL-pals have been crowded as Champions. I'm very proud of these folks. They worked their butts off! They've truly been an inspiration to me and I'm sure to others too.

Several months ago I had the opportunity to meet Bill Phillips at a book signing. He spent some personal time with many folks who sought out his autograph. I was blessed / surprised to be called out by name at this event. This special recognition made me feel like an instant celebrity. The reason I think I was identified was because of the occasional comment or inspirational quote I'd share on the BFL Guestbook. Bill (or his staff) somehow got wind of these contributions.

When I got to the front of the line I asked Bill what I might do to help him. He suggested I just keep doing what I was doing.

Somehow this just didn't seem to be enough. I wanted to do more. So a started a 'virtual fitness group' on the President's Challenge web-site. Advertised this group on the BFL Guestbook. And folks signed up a dozen at a time.

Not to many folks kept at it. Not everyone finished their 12-week challenge. It was at this time that I 'discovered' that the BFL program is simple -- but it ain't easy.

But on a positive note about a dozen folks earn points toward the President's Challenge awards; earning Bronze, Silver, and Gold medals and using the web as a collective group log. We ultimately had a few golds, a few silvers, and a half-dozen or so bronze medalists.

(When comparing these true amateurs against the Olympic medal count, we place well behind the Russians, Chinese, and the Australians but ahead of many smaller countries and way ahead of the average American who's been diagnosed as an obese couch potato.)

During the course of this week ... I'm very happy to learn that at least four of these original BFL Test Pilots went on not only to become medalists, but also to become BFL GRAND CHAMPIONS! This wasn't really a surprise. These folks were quick to set the pace on the President's Challenge web-site.

Congratulations! I'm proud of you -- each and every one of you!

10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 ...

This week's UBWOs went better than planned. Found myself doing more reps per set than called for in the BFL program.

So it was time to go buy some more 'iron'. It's starting to get a little crowded in the basement gym. We now have more pairs of dumbbells than the rack in the closet can hold.

Might need to buy another heavier pair of dumbbells in a week or so.

It's hard counting beyond 20 unless you workout barefoot.