u/JoeRodge87

I've been gradually upping the weight on the incline (I've always felt it harder to do that flat bench). I'm aiming to be slow and controlled with the motion to engage the muscle group.

This is the heaviest I've lifted I feel like it looks like I gave up when I should have tried for the 7th rep but am always mindful I'd rather avoid an injury than feed an ego, I can always get that extra rep in a few weeks time.

I understand gym posts aren't to everyone's taste,and the gym isn't for everyone, but as a previously overweight person I enjoy seeing people hit their personal goals and develop in areas they never thought possible.

From the outside looking in it's just another person flexing and flaunting gym progress.

From those that know and have been on the journey they understand It all starts with a small goal that builds up momentum and each step/goal becomes a stride. Gradually unpicking years of bad habits and lifestyle to replace and promote better ones, improving both physically and mentally. If I didn't pick some dumbbells up someone left at my house many years ago, that one small thing led me on a path I never thought I'd go down. Improving my life personally, confidence and my careers over the years via understanding patience and goal setting through trial and error.

Remember people, small and sustainable goals with realistic starting points. Break the ultimate goal down into progressive steps so it isn't as overwhelming.

If an ex overweight, substance misusing, sitting in my underwear drinking and gaming dosser like me can make changes so can you!

It doesn't have to be the gym! Walk, paint, learn to play an instrument, just something you can put the time in to learn and anyone else (or your own mindset) can't take that away because you got up and you did it, you earned it.

Thanks for reading

*I am fully aware I don't look happy in the photo, that's my face sir.

Glad it's got to the length I can bang loads of random stuff in it.