Rudy's Comments: I just started working with Bob a few months ago. He came in with another client I've been working with for the last couple of years. When I told him about my idea for a page about people who are finding their way, he said he'd like to try to write something. I thought I might have to edit and rearrange the stories people sent me, but in Bob's case the copy was so compelling I decided to print it just as he sent it to me.
Bob Gregg
FINDING MY WAY
She died suddenly one Sunday morning, almost 18 months ago. We were both retired, quite comfortable with residences in Nevada and California. Although we did everything together, she was the one who (mostly) orchestrated our lives. After over 30 (happy) years, I did not have a clue about living alone and slowly slid down the slippery slope of depression.
At 65 years, I was about 10 pounds overweight. My wife and I were pretty good about watching our carbohydrate intake, but we were not Atkins extremists. After talking to a friend who had been to a lecture series on the evolution of the human digestive system, I made a huge change in the way I approached food. The bottom line for me was that I realized that I often ate when I was not hungry. I ate three times a day, because that’s how I was raised. Today, I eat when I am hungry, which is usually once a day in the evening. My favorite meal consists of some kind of chicken and a salad, usually based on coniferous vegetables. Sure, there are times when I eat something in the mornings or at lunchtime, but usually I only have an evening meal. My weight and waist are both reduced, which is rewarding when I look in the mirror.
Almost out of boredom I began to do what I call a “walk-run”. It was a break from doing nothing. Now about a year later, I do four miles, three times a week. Depending on the walk-run mix, I finish in between 50 and 60 minutes. This hour is very pleasurable for me. My mind is quiet. I enjoy being outside. And afterwards, I have that good feeling that always accompanies exercise.
About the time I changed my diet, a friend dragged me to Positive Results for a trial session with a trainer. When I was in my 40s, I joined a gym and worked out with Nautilus equipment. After a few sessions, I found that I was not able to recall the correct way to do most of the exercises. At that time the use of a trainer was unthinkable. How could anyone be so extravagant? Well, today I am a raging advocate for using a trainer. My body has responded to a fairly aggressive weight training regimen by rewarding me with the best shape I have been in since college. The mirror that I mentioned above reflects some pretty interesting (for a now 67 year old) arms, shoulders, abs, and legs.
I have to say that all trainers are not created equal. Rudy Rich has to be a cut above most. For me, his irrepressible intellect has been the perfect complement to his fitness knowledge. I find that I look forward as much to our discussions as to the workout per se.
I found my way (so far) to fitness as part of an attempt to escape depression. For certain, being more fit does not, by itself resolve depression, but it sure helps a lot. I am in for life on this fitness stuff.