Burn The Fat 2010 Summer Blog Contest

I love reading this burn the fat newsletter! It really keeps me motivated. I use to weigh 263 before I had kids! I had a horrible child hood dealing with my weight! After I had children I now weight 148 I am proud but I workout hard and eat great but I can always use more motivation!

I ended an abusive marriage a year and a half ago. During that time I let my body run to fat as I used sugar as my drug of choice to get me through the misery.Now I am single and trying to undo the damage. My mother was only a few years older than I am now when she had her first stroke caused by undiagnosed diabetes. She was very overweight. She died 5 years later from complications from diabetes. I have 3 children a 22 year old son and 11 year old twin daughters. I owe it to them to get back into shape so that I can watch their children grow up.So, it is not that I should lose fat, it is that I must lose it.

Why is transforming my body important to me this summer?Well, where do I start??!! The last few years I have been too self conscious to really be able to enjoy the nice weather. So that is one reason to just be able to go out and not worry about how I look now that I can no longer hide behind cardigans and coats. To improve my health, lower my risk of disease and increase my energy and self confidence. To believe in myself and my main reason…. I have had a dream for many years to get on stage in bikini and heels and I want to do that by October 23rd 2010….. I have a long way to go but have the desire to make it happen!!!Just a “few” of my reasons!!!

i once had that body until i retired from sport i played a comeback game last year and hated what i saw i have volunteered for another game and i must get that body back

Hi, Over the years I’ve yo-yo’d with my weight and the ways I have lost weight is either through huge amounts of cardio or dieting. Of course when I stop the cardio but continue to eat the same the weight comes back and the same with the diet. Now I’ve finally managed to ‘get into’ weight training and combining the other aspects I’m expecting some lasting results!

I want to look and feel physically like I feel emotionally. and I don’t want to do it for the summer…I want it for life.

My boyfriend dumped me on March 21. On March 31 I was diagnosed with Cyclothymia, a bipolar mini-me, and withdrew from classes at the university level. I am getting in better shape to prove to myself that I can succeed and that I am not limited by a chronic mental illness.

I must continue to work toward my goal of having a ripped body. When I exercise and eat clean, I improve my health, my looks and my overall outlook on life. I am a teacher and a single mother. Being in the best shape that I possibly can, gives me the energy to do the jobs that people depend on me to do. I must maintain a healthy weight and I must do it by following The Holy Grail this summer.

Thanks, Tom, for teaching me that I needed to eat MORE often, not less. Wednesday I will win the Biggest Loser contest at work. But I’m only halfway to my goal. I need to keep going, and it needs to happen NOW. I can’t risk going backwards. I have a trip coming up later this summer. By then, I hope to be close enough to my goal that my sleep apnea is gone. I’m grateful that CPAPs were invented, but I’m really hoping to be free of mine THIS SUMMER.

I absolutely MUST…well, no time better than now! My goal is to tryout for the Minnesota Vikings cheerleaders next April so got to start now! I want to be the strongest and leanest of them all!! Plus, I can try out my new bikini (in a smaller size) on my vacation to Hawaii!!! Keeping my eye on the prize (all of them)!!! Thank you for everything you do.

I must transform my body for several reasons. Here are the two most important ones. Reason #1: I have had type I diabetes for 15 years now. It is not enough just to be skinny (which I am not) it is important to be healthy if I want to have a full life when I am old. Reaon #2: I must win the war with the time! I refuse to grow old. To win this war, I must be strong and healthy and therefore this summer transformation challenge is my weapon, which I am using to win my war with aging.

I am slowly and surely eating my way to a slow death and on the way to a life full of injuries and ill health and not much to look forward to. All because I can’t control what passes my lips. That all stops today. I am the only person who can do anything about this but once your over 50 it’s not going to be easy.

I must transform my body this summer because i have been trying to do so for the past summers. And this summer will be the summer that i will be successful. I’ve been through all fad diets – starving myself,living on lemon juice cleansing,laxative based detox… Name it i’ve tried it. It’s time now to do something for myself that would give me lasting results,to finally be able to wear the swimsuit i have always dreamed of wearing, to be able to feel a sense of security that i am not in any fat- related health risk and to be able to finally start and live a healthy lifestyle.

Enter me to win free stuff! See u guys in Maui!

I am 51 and just had a double hip replacement. I have signed up for a sprint triathlon in August as a goal. I believe that at my age and even with my hip replacements I can still be active and fit. I think the first step is telling yourself you can do it and I can!

I’m so stoked to participate in this BFFM challenge – I’ve been powerlifting for a couple of years, but I believe now, that I used that as an excuse to not eat completely clean & truly push myself & be accountable to get the physique I truly dream of. So, I now BELIEVE in myself & am transfiguring my body becasue I will stand on a stage to compete in figure or BB before I turn 40 on 2 years. THere’s a lot of hard work ahead, but If my mind can conceive it, my body can achieve it!!

Why is transforming my body so important to me?Over the past years, I have done a lot of damage to my body starving it from 176lbs to 88lbs and then back to 130 – 140 lbs, which I have been maintaining for a few years. I realized that my body is much more than a mere “house” of my soul. Both my physical and mental states have to be in harmony for this is a key factor for success in life! This harmony in my sense is not only transformation of my body and fat loss, but a change in lifestyle which I feel Tom’s books are offering, unlike various crash-diets. After having joined the inner circle and seen how many people share my sentiments. Those who fight can lose, but not in this battle!

Wow what a great contest. I follow your online news letters and they have helped in the past. I was working out and eating right for 2years lost over 100 lbs and started to getting tone and muscular. then one thing lead to another I had a car accident etc… and I fell off the waggon so to speak. now i’m back where i started. I would love to win the burn the fat feed the muscle book I think it would be something to help me get restarted.

Being from Pakistan, I’ve never grown up in an environment that tells you that you need to be a certain size to have a good social life, so that is never part of my dream body. At the same time, though, nobody in my huge family, ever given exercise or health any priority. After learning so much about healthy eating and healthy habits from so many blogs and books, including The Body Fat Solution, I have been trying to live healthier, so when I am fifty (I am 20 right now), I will be proud of how I used the greatest gift I have–my body! I want to be independent when I am old, independent and happy. I don’t want to regret how I used my body or how I treated it.All this became even more important to me after I lost my mother last year at age 50, to a sudden heart attack. She was the closest person to me and I would have never thought that she would leave us this early. I respect and love her dearly, but I have decided that I will change my habits and of those around me for the better. I turn 21 in January and it has been my promise to myself that at age 21, I will have my ‘dream’ body–healthy and fit (and toned!), with a plan that is healthy, no gimmicks and no shortcuts. I must live up to my promise and do all I can to get there.

Hi Tom, if I had a credit card I would of already purchased your e books and joined the inner circle. I am turning 51 this summer and I am 5’8″ and about 240lbs. I need to focus on your challenge to obviously lose weight and gain muscle but for me it is more of a life altering experience that I am looking for. I am just starting another new business and I need the energy and focus to succeed! I want to be a part of your challenge to have the drive and commitment that your notes and newsletters help inspire in me! Thanks

I must do this, because I have been struggling with my weight and self-esteem for years now. Although I’m of “average” body fat for a woman of my age, I am not happy with my body. I want to be muscular, lean and fit! I have tried, and succeeded, at losing most of my weight several times, but I always gained it back. With BFFM I now have both the MENTAL plan, and the NUTRITIONAL plan to succeed. I will do this, make this a lifestyle, and show myself that I am strong and can accomplish anything I set my mind to!

I must transform my body this summer because I have always been the one full of excuses for why it doesn’t happen, and I know that it will benefit my health if I can once and for all get to my goal weight and then stay there instead of bouncing up and down in the close but no cigar zone.

Hi Tom! I am getting ready to participate in the summer contest for another challenge on my way to getting in the best shape of my life. I have a huge motivation already, two beautiful twin baby girls, 4 and my wife of 20 years but every little bit helps. A year ago, my wife made me go get a checkup. Thank God! After some testing and a heart catheterization, I ended up with a stent in an artery. The doc told me that if I wanted to see my babies grow up, graduate, get married and have children of their own that I had better change my lifestyle. He also mentioned that DIET was a four letter word. I took him at his word. When the hospital weighed me prior to the procedure, I was 372 lbs. and I have shed 65 lbs. through sensible eating and gradual increases in exercise. Your e-book and newsletters have given me some of the tools to succeed and I am ready now to take it a higher level. Thanks for all of the motivation.

i am soon resigning from my job of 4 years. i have tried to lose weight thru various means ..and failed. starting another phase in my life is significant and losing weight is a top priority to prove to my self & my family that i can do it.I MUST DO THIS.

The reason it’s a must for me to get in shape by the summer is because I am a personal trainer and I want to set a good example for my clients. I’ve committed to participate in a fitness competition in 2011 and I am already training for it. It’s exciting and I love my job! Also, I’m training my mom to win the fat loss challenge. We’re going to work hard so she can finally be the woman she wants to be! woo hoo!!!

Last year I competed in my first figure competition and it was an elating experience. After a big (but I now understand not all-together uncommon) rebound, I am prepping for contests this season.The goal I have set for myself is 2 fold and different this time.#1) Perform with a better body than I’ve had before.#2) Enjoy that this is my new lifestyle, do not resurrect the evil sugar monster and lead the way in living lean for my friends and family.* They saw me do it once, now I want my life to inspire them to live at their personal best, what ever improvements that may mean – for life!

I MUST transform my body this summer to prove to myself that a 33 year old mother of two can still be smokin hot :)

As a piece of the nature I am most responsible for, I need to be physically as perfect as I can so that I function thoroughly as a human. I’m sure not even my body but also my brain would work differently without all these fat cells all over my body. Besides I’m burning with the desire of discovering the basic physical style I have been awarded.

At 5’5″, I was 183 and got down to 152…my blood pressure was high, cholesterol was high and I was 49. It wasn’t until my daughter gave me a hug and said, “Daddy, I can’t touch my fingers – you need to lose weight because I don’t want you to die” that it hit me. Something “clicked” and I knew I had to do something. All my “numbers” improved tremendously…BMI, cholesterol, weight, blood pressure, etc.I am now 170 pounds and I need to transform my body for good…NOW. In the next 98 days I must get back to my old routine of working out, both strength and cardio, logging what I eat so I know how many calories are being taken in and burned and I need to do it in a way that is sustainable.Thanks for all the great tips and support on this site…it has helped me in the past and will help me NOW!

Transforming my body using this Challenge is my starting point to get myself in the mindset of a lifestyle change–not just for a specific number of days. and to make significant changes to my current body. I know if I follow what you (Tom) say then I will be very successful at the end of the Challenge. It will create the first major hurdle that will be conquered and allow me to continue to my ultimate goal and then maintain. I am carrying way too much body fat for my height of 4’11” and I have finally realized–AND accepted!! that I am NOT doing myself, my health, my family, etc. any favors by not doing something–now is the time–no more procrastination. Oh, I have known I need to get in better shape, but I have come up with excuses–no more! The Challenge is great motivator and the very critical steps of accountability and setting/writing/frequent review of goals will make me successful. I am accountable to myself first, then others so that I do not wander off. To put it all in a long sentence: I Must lose body fat so that I can improve my health,decrease the potential for any health problems, feel better, look GREAT, increase my self-esteem, set a good example for my family, add years to my life and recognize it is possible especially because the “how to do the Challenge” is practically spoon fed–just need to follow directions and take it one day at a time. Last part–Being Healthy is Being Wealthy.

This is a continuation of the new lifestyle (not a diet) I chose in January. It’s not an option, it’s not a “should” or “if only” or “when I” or “I want to,” it simply IS. I’m below what was my goal weight, my body fat is a respectable 19%, but I want more. (Or less, as it were!) I will get more. I WILL see my abs completely, not just partially as I do now… I have dialed in the BFFM eating and while my results will not be huge in terms of size, etc., my goals will be reached and I’ll be rockin’ more muscle, less fat and some nice abs on this 50 yr old gal.Actually, for me it’s been simple. I made a DECISION to get fit, I’ve done that and now will take it to the next level. Don’t confuse simple, with easy. It’s not easy, it’s just worth it.My Decision=My results.

How long can I sit on the sidelines always waiting for someone else to tell me how to fix my own personal issues? and we are not just talking about weight!The problem I want is no self accountability that’s way too much pressure in case I fail. It’s much easier to pay someone else who can fail in my place, like a “Trainer” or “lame” workout program, then I can blame them.The transformation contest provides me the self-accountabilty in front of everyone to change all that. Loosing weight which has always been a “must do” but a”never do” it’s a task only I can achieve myself. I’m on my own island and only I can get off. I have 98 days and counting down.

Frustrated when i could not get into my cloths and had to Get size 40’s . I googled weight loss and when i read the info on your website it made a lot of sense so i purchased your ebook in january and now i’m wearing 34’s and have loss 45 pounds. Body fat went from 30% to 16% at present. My goal is single digit Body fat. Thanks for the knowledge.Rex Grizzle

What are the REASONS WHY you want to be in better shape at the end of the summer than you are today?i dont want to die the way my mom did: diabetic, overweight, unhealthy, heart attackWhy is transforming your body NOW – in the next 98 days- an absolute MUST for you? the longer i wait the harder it gets

This is the last step in a lifelong journey to reach a healthy body fat %age/body weight after many years of yo yo dieting. Can’t wait to get started on Monday!

I want to be in better shape by the end of the summer and transform my body NOW because i used to think going lower in calories and exercising as much as possible would work until i stopped losing weight doing this.. I want to be in better shape, forget that number on the scale, and eat better. I WANT A HEALTHIER BODY composition definitely before i start having kids.

I want to get in the best shape of my life this summer because…For one it is all the usual reasons of course, look better, feel better, be healthy and fit, And to be the envy of all my friends around my age..HAHA.The more I think on this leads me to decide that another good reason is to be the image of someone that CAN help others. My sister is begging me to help her get fit and healthy and she has a significant amount to lose. I want to help others, and to do this I MUST be practicing what I want to preach….I must be able to show them that with work and dedication…it IS possible to change your life and your body!!

I purchased BFFM a few years ago and read through the entire thing three times with the intentions of doing it. I knew I should! I know what i “should” do. I will be turning 54 this year. I have 2 grandchildren and one on the way. I love them so much I can hardly contain myself. I want to be able to be there when they get married. I want to see their children. I MUST! I have a loving wife and three grown sons with families of their own. I have been blessed beyond anything I could ever have asked for yet I have put my health and physical fitness on a very low priority and because of this I am flabby, tired, and at this rate I will not be able to enjoy what I have much longer. The next 98 days of my life are going to be the change I have been wanting to make and putting off for far too long! By the end of this summer I am going to be ready to teach my grandson how to ski. I am going to enjoy my grandkids, my great grandkids and my great great grandkids, and they are going to remember me as that energetic, enthusiastic, strong happy and encouraging old man. I AM going to transform my body and my lifestyle into the best I have ever been. I AM going to be able to look in the mirror and be impressed with what I see. I am excited, encouraged, pumped and beyond ready to blow through any and all challenges. Absolutely NOTHING will stand in my way. I can, I must, I will! I know what to do and I AM starting right now!

When one’s life seems out of control, anxiety is off the charts, and any hope for a better future seems way off in the distance of impossibilities… an email arises from the horizon of fear, an invitation to “burn the Fat” contest. I’ve stuffed food and work over the past few years to the point of driving more than my family away. I’ve crushed my will to a million pieces of tiny resentments. I must change now. I’m 52. I have to get it together. There isn’t much time left to play out my life’s hand, but one good card (and I believe this is it), must be delt, and I can’t wait to play it. I don’t want to fold.

I must change my body now before it’s too late. This is my chance to turn around my high blood fasting glucose before I am diagnosed with diabetes following my Mam and Nan. Or have a heart attack just like many members of my family. I have got to the point where I am waking tired in the mornings and I just can’t shake it all day. I am at my heaviest ever. I have 2 beautiful sons to look after and enjoy my life with and I need to be a healthy happy Mother for them as well as myself so this is my time and I am going to do it .I need to feel good. No more excuses!

Transforming my body this summer is important to me to because I want walk the walk. I profess to want to be a personal trainer and to be all about fitness, but my body doesn’t show it. I injured and re-injured a tendon in my elbow last fall and used that as an excuse to just sit idly by, even from aerobics! It is a MUST to do it this summer because I’m tired of sitting and only studying fitness and not actually DOING something about it. I MUST walk the walk. If I don’t, I won’t be taken seriously in my career by my friends or by my clients.

Transforming my body this summer is important to me because I am important to myself and having CONTROL and MANAGEMENT of my own body and life is important. My life is in a state of equilibrium on many fronts, but my bodyfat% and body image has been a never ending rollercoaster. In the past few years I let the effects of stress get to me thus my bodyfat bounced out of control. What pisses me off more than anything isn’t so much that I put on a great deal of bodyfat%, but that its not the first time I have been thru this, and once and for all I am now in a position and MINDSET to mangement my body despite what may be occurring all around me. I believe life is from within out and never from without in, and I feel good about myself, so its a MUST that the outside reflect the inside, I deserve it and worthy to give it to myself. After years of listening to horrible so called fitness advice from greedy experts, I was thrilled to have discovered Tom V’s honesty and dedication to delivering the TRUTH about what it really takes to get and stay in shape for life, without all the sugarcoating and lies. FINALLY armed with this information and my self-discipline and determination, there is no way that I can fail, even if I don’t win the contest. I WIN as long as I maintain control of my thoughts and actions. Getting in shape is a MUST because I no longer want to be obsessed with my body although I can think of worst things to be obsessed about. Getting in shape is important to me so that the outside visual person reflects the inner thoughts.

Why get into better shape? To live the life I want. To be strong and fit and capable. Looking good doesn’t hurt either!Being strong means conquering the obstacles before me. Powering up a hill on my mountain bike, pounding out more reps in my conditioning class, hiking those extra miles that make all the difference, living without boundaries.What about being Fit? That’s dropping my cholesterol from 220 to 140 without the help of any medication or supplements. Using the power of my own body to transform itself internally: better circulation, better digestion, better sleep and much better days! Did I mention I don’t snore anymore?How about being capable? Why say no when you can say YES. Yes, I can enjoy a more active lifestyle without pain, without discomfort. No more constant back and knee pain.And yes I want look better and there is nothing more attractive than lean mass. Lean, strong and slender is the goal and as I slowly achieve that, I find myself becoming more content and more confident.Why now? That’s simple. When you start to get a taste of the life you can have, you don’t want to put it off any longer. I went from 300 lbs and over 30% body fat to 220 lbs and 16% through food logging, careful consumption and exercise, I got a taste of the life I could have and should have and I want more of those results.And I want it as soon as humanly possible!

– am a 25 year old single mom of one. I am 50 lbs over weight. I have tried everything to lose weight the good and bad ways. I overcame eating disorders and very unhealthy habits such as abusing laxatives to lose. I want to finally lose this weight the right way. I want to be healthy for myself and my daughter. I have a personality disorder and depression. I believe that being healthy will not only help me physically but also mentally. I want to b proud of myself for once and I want my 2 year old to b proud of her mommy. I want to b able to ran and play with my little one and no longer b ashamed of my appearance.

I have been working with physiological exercise machines for the last 9 months to improve my back health (lower back and sciatic nerve problems). I have lifted progressively more weight and it feels great. I have eaten a more healthy diet for the last year, but wanted to lose the weight slowly through true life style changes and building muscle rather than just losing fat. I have lost about 15 pounds this way and reshaped my body, but I have much more to do. I have your book, The Body Fat Solution, and have read all your newsletters, website info. etc. for the last few months. Thank you for providing a sane way to become more healthy. I want to continue to reshape my body and lose weight the Tom Venuto way. These changes are of primary importance to my back, heart, and emotional health so that I can remain healthy and do the things that I want to do. I want to fit into clothes that have become too small and walk with my dog without hurting. This challenge will give me the emotional and physical boost I need to stay healthier and happier. I am a woman in my mid-60’s so it is very empowering to be able to improve my health.

Why must I transform my body this summer? I MUST because doing anything less would be, at the worst denying and even at the best, excusing myself from the ability to discover what is possible within me.All of my major life’s goals – being a good mom, enjoying time with friends and family, servicing others through work, honoring my Creator – necessitate good health and require ample amounts of energy. Eating and exercising right are things that we can control in this seemingly unpredictable world and give us the advantage physically and mentally over those who choose to let the world control them. In this light, not focusing on one’s health would be ridiculous.I want to live a long, healthy, happy, fun, crazy, action packed, adventure seeking life that includes loads of laughter and great times shared with loved ones. Being the healthiest I can be gives me the best shot I’ve got at doing this!

I am registered to run a marathon this fall, and this is my ticket to a PR! I am super excited to start on Monday!! Thank you for the education and inspiration.

I want to have a muscular, strong body that looks and feels better. I worked hard to lose 70 pounds. Now I need to build up!I’m also a college student. Summer is the most opportune time for me to make big changes.

The next three months are vitally important to me. I’ve been on a fat loss journey for a year now and the end is finally insight. I’ve lost over 40 pd.s of fat while gaining lean muscle. Right now I’m sitting at 21% body fat. My goal is to have 12% by the end of the summer. Your contest is the icing on the cake for keeping me motivated. (Maybe I should have said fruit on my oatmeal?) I have to burn the fat. I want to be the best me I can. I am going set a great example for my children, friends, and family. I am going to prove to myself that I can achieve all my goals. I have to get in the best shape of my life, so I can live the life I want to live. God bless you Tom, because of you I’m going to do it. Thanks.

My personal “MUST” reason is for health reasons. I have yo-yo’d all my life and I must learn and put into action healthly eating habits. I must make it a lifestyle change. I must and I will learn and continue to do everything I learn in the burn the fat ebook I just purchased.The reason “WHY” I should win is because I am 46yrs old, I have 5 grandsons and I deserve a vacation!!! I have never had one because I cannot afford one!!! I am going to enter this contest, I am going to learn so much about health and fitness and I am going be healthy the rest of my life so I can enjoy my grandsons and live forever!!! (and go to Maui!!) Thank you for the opportunity!!!

This is my last chance to have a real woman’s life. By that I mean, I have recently met a good man, who wants me in spite of my weight. BUt he is active and what joy can I bring his life if my obese, fllabby body keeps me from full sharing with him? Secondly, I have a good job and next year, I will be in a new school..new colleagues, new students and before I retire, I want to walk confidently out with my class for fire drills, walk in museums with them without feeling as if I’m the “Charity Case”..So, although I am 60 years old and I first dieted at 14, this is my last chance…And if needeing a loving relationship to share joy with my man and a healthy daily experience with my kids is’t enough to win…I’ll do it anyway…

At age 50, I watched my mother suffer from congested heart failure and succumb to the disease on a ventilator. My 3 older brothers also suffered from heart problems having stents put in. I looked in the mirror and realized I was going on the same route. Since January 2008, I’ve lost 136 lbs. Although that’s a great accomplishment, I am not at where I want to be. I have another 50-60 lbs to go. I work out 6 days a week, doing cardio and weight training. I’ve been on a plateau now for about 5 months. I’ve been training heavily since December upping weights and adding in extra cardio. While I’ve gained strength and muscle, I haven’t seen much change in my body. I want to take it up to a new level and get to the place I want to be. I am so much healthier and fitter than I ever was in the past, even when I was an athlete. I attribute so much to this program. I’ve followed the principles of Burn the Fat and have changed my diet and my focus. Now I want to get to my goal and burn more fat yet retain all the muscle I’ve built. I’m more determined than ever!

I Am Not An Option Anymore!I am fully responsible for being in this state of “un”health and I am fully responsible for getting myself healthy. I am excited about this new journey!That said – I have noticed something this week that was quite astonishing. Being a person who devotes herself to the people she cares about – I have done all I can to provide nourishment, nurturing, and love to my family and friends. Almost, if not to, a fault! In most people, that ability is balanced with a little bit of “me-time!” But, not for me.I watched myself throughout this week give up my aspirations (as minimal as time to read a book to as important as to achieve a financial goal) for others. Sounds noble? I really don’t think so when it is unbalanced. That is where I am. I end the day with an aching back, a tired brain, and an empty shell.Pitiful – but, don’t feel sorry for me. I did this to myself. I was a born enabler. I have learned to “swallow” my thoughts, my feelings, my dreams, my arguments – and, replace them with everyone elses’. And, now I have the hard task of breaking this chain of dependency. And, I will.What does this have to do with health and BFFM? Well, since I can remember – I have not fed my soul, spirit, and dreams. And, in the place of nurturing that part of myself – I have fed my “flesh” for that was a part of me that I could control and that would not “take time” from others. And, honestly, it felt good. So – now, at 44, I am 65 pounds overweight in the flesh and enormously underweight in achieved dreams.Well, that has changed this week. You can imagine the look on people when they see me say “no!” or not to agree or not to be the “nice person” that I have always been. It is time for me to read that book, take that long bath, study those books that have gathered dust, set some goals, pick friends who want me as a friend – not someone who makes them feel good – and, basically to say “No!”I am not an option anymore –It is my life –It is my journey –I must be courageous!

I grew up always wanting desperately to have the physique of a bodybuilder. Six years ago my dreams were shattered when I was hit by a car going 55+MPH! (Keep in mind, I was a pedestrian!….long story….anyway…….) After spending 2 months in a coma, I woke up, unable to talk or walk. I have a traumatic brain injury and at the time, my whole left side of my body was paralyzed (I couldn’t even stand up on my own.) After 6 years of therapy and never giving up; I can now do squats on a Smith machine, bench press, military press, pull-ups and ride a stationary bike 45 minutes at a good clip!After being disgusted with the physical condition of my body a year ago, I searched on the internet and found BFFM. I quickly became hooked and committed my life in to being in the best shape of my life by age 40 (which is September 2, 2010) This contest is absolutely perfect for me. Last year in May I made the commitment, (It’s as if this contest was made for me.)

I have just turned 55 & have been doing BFFM for a month now. I want to be in the best shape of my life by the time I reach the goals I have set for myself. I will be close to achieving my goals by the end of summer. And if I can use this competition to help with my motivation then so much the better. I have tried many variation on diet & exercise but the BFFM seems to me to be the one that doesn’t feed you a bunch of BS it takes hard work to loose weight there are no magic pills out there. So I feel if I can’t do this now with the info I have from BFFM then I may never succeed at loosing my excess baggage

I suffered with anorexia/bulimia for a long time before i decided to get healthy and quit my deadly habit.i have always exercised but for the wrong reasons. But now i am healthy, i lift and run and quit smoking 3 1/2 years ago i am having a hard time tighting up my body and losing my body fat so for me i think this challenge would sort help me get into the habit of really keeping track of everything i eat and do to win this. I want to look the part of a healthy, fit and muscular woman and not hide myself but be proud of who i am and what i can do with my accomplishments.

I want to prove that it can be done. I am approaching my 68th year, have lost 13 pounds last winter and came to a standstill. I am one of those skinny fat people Tom is referring to. There is a loss of 5 pounds of fat to lose!

I want to be in better shape so that I will feel and look better. Transforming my body is a must during the summer challenge because i have started these contests before and never completed them. I must get over this hurdle of not finishing what I start. I must find that six pack in the next 98 days that has been evading me for the last 20 years. The BFFM program has helped me do wonders with my body so far, but I must hit this pinnacle.

I have been on a fat loss, muscle building mission for a couple years now, and have had some success. However, I am all too aware that my physique goals cannot be achieved with haphazard, inconsistent training and nutrition. I know I have what it takes to take my fitness the next level, but need that extra “push” and expert guidance to point me in the right direction. Accountability for me is huge, and this challenge is exactly what I need to ensure that my actions align with my goals.

I want to prioritize my health and reduce my body fat while increasing my muscle mass I want to get healthy and reduce my blood pressure and cholesterol. I want to develop a fit and healty lifestyle that I can maintain going forward rather than just losing weight.

(1) I need to lose weight and tone up so i can stop beating myself up and blaming every bad thing in my life on weight. If i get rid of the weight. If i lose the weight i won’t be able to blame it for my all of my problems.(2) I need to lose the weight so that i can feel that i am truly deserving of being loved and can finally allow someone into my life so i can finally get married, without being self concious and feeling that if i get married and my husband leaves me it is because of how i look.

Why do I want to be in better shape? January 2009 I was 197 pounds on a 5’3″ frame, had birthed three children, and was completely fed up (no pun intended) with myself. I began to exercise and change my lifestyle–slowly. I have logged almost all of my calories since the day I started, exercised regularly, and trained for and completed a mini marathon. I now weigh 133 and I’m lifting more weights to increase my muscle mass and lose the remaining fat. My goal is 117 pounds on the scale, but really…I am not focusing on the number–its’ just one of many markers for me. To date, I have lost 64 pounds and 80 1/2 inches….why would I stop now? I have embraced this lifestyle and plan to continue indefinitely. I am excited to see more definition and muscle than I have ever had. This contest is just more motivation. Thanks for the chance to win!Michelle

Hi Tom,I must lose this weight, and I am losing it in the next 98 days! I am so friggen happy that in 98 days I get to have more muscle and alot less fat. I’m 24 year old female, who is living all around the world, and my mission is to have an enviable body. I want to lose 20 lbs of fat and gain 7lbs of muscle, and get that tight and toned female body I’ve always dreamed of. I know its underneath there somewhere, and I can’t wait to get it off! This challenge is my top priority, even though I will have to move from Brazil (where I am currently interning), to NYC and graduate from grad school all with in the next 98 days too. It will be a challenge, but I have never been more ready in my life. Get ready to see alot more of me around here, and becoming a part of the inner circle would be CLUTCH before the challenge. I already own the BFFM book and am living it now, and I can’t wait to see the results coincide perfectly with this contest. WOOHOO!!Michelle

I have decided now that I want to change my lifestyle.I am tired of just understanding that my current one is not sustainable in the long run and I want to tackle it through taking action based on Tom’s book “Burn the fat feed the muscle” that I read about 6 months ago. It looks like a system that provides me with all the answers that I need to adopt a new lifestyle and succeed at it. And to forget forever about yo-yo dieting.I have already begun counting all my calories and now, just after 5 days, I realize how much I have been eating just without noticing! Food I don’t even miss now that I have started calculating calories!I am not even hungry at 1000 to 1300 cal a day!I also have been exercising quite irregularly for the past 8 months. I have done weight lifting mostly, but not that much cardio, except for almost every day city biking which I had to stop when the real winter came in.And still I see great results already now. I have muscles in places where I had just flabby fat before!BUT now I want to make a system out of it and be consequent with it. I want to take out all the guess work and just follow Tom’s book.My main motivation points for this are as follows:- I am a professional singer and at the same time an educated researcher; so I do a lot of sitting work; soon I will go over to a full-time music career, I want to look impeccable on stage. This is not just about looks though. My improved health will give me tremendous advantages not only in my daily life, but also in my physically demanding singing career.- It is kind of stupid how much time, energy and thoughts we spend on concealing our bodily imperfections with appropriate clothes, how every time when we renew our wardrobe, we think about camouflaging something. It is far more sane to spend these thoughts, time and energy on striving for our ideal health and shape! I want to spend my time in a meaningful way!Transformation, here I come=))))))))!

To commit to the CHOICE of looking and feeling my best. Should,Could,Would…….it is all within my control, I simply must master my self talk and stay focused.

I’ll do this because I need to be healthy both mentally and physically in order to continue to care for my husband, who has MS. It takes a huge effort to be a loving supporting partner & carer for a disabled person, and it is very easy to turn to food for comforting while neglecting the fitness because of insanely busy daily schedule. I’m not doing this for winning anything but my health back.

What are the REASONS WHY you want to be in better shape at the end of the summer than you are today?I turned 47 this year. I have two teen sons, a teen stepson, and two young daughters. I have to be the best example for them as I can be. My bio-sons play football in HS, and they need to know that you can be fit naturally, without drugs, and that this goes hand in hand with education, although faith in God is first and formost. I believe I can incorporate my faith in this, and truly be an example to all!!Why is transforming your body NOW – in the next 98 days- an absolute MUST for you?I married an incredibly generous, loving man 3 years ago, after suffering through one too many abusive relationships. My children are happy, healthy, and grateful and so am I. My precious husband does not take care of himself as he ought. I also see my teen stepson following in dad’s unhealthy footsteps. I don’t preach. I want to show them that no matter how old you are, it can be done! I also have painful scoliosis and had two surgeries last year for pre-cancer, yet, with God as my strength, I won’t give up!! I let fitness take a backseat because my lifestyle now includes more to do, and I’ve let that derail my personal care. I realize that if Mama don’t care for herself first, the rest of the family will suffer too.

The light bulb finally went off. Fat loss is my key to success, not weight loss. I am a skinny fat person (34.2% this morning – seriously). Several years ago I was size 0-2 and felt OK but not great. Now I understand why. And why, when I lift weights, I see little or no definition. I’ve gained weight since then, but now I know fat loss should be my focus. Also, I have heart disease on both sides of my family including my brother who had triple by-pass when he was 46, I’m going to break the cycle.

After overcoming a chronic illness which led to me being bed-ridden for almost 7 1/2 years. I recognize how vitally important my health and wellness is as a whole. Not only does my health affect me…it also affects everyone closest to me.As a result, of my illness I gained a total of 150lbs in bed. Within the last year or so… I have managed to drop over 120 lbs of this weight. I am committed to being a testimony to the world. You can do anything you put your mind to doing.I now have an obligation to help people in the same areas of life in which I have struggled. So, will you please assist me in completing my body transformation by helping me improve my nutrition, fitness and resistance strength. My ideal body image is to be toned, sculpted and healthy. Will you help me…while allowing me to be able to reach back and help countless others who are trapped in a temple that does not reflect who they really are…?My belief in myself has brought me to this place of CHANGE!

The first 5 years of my 40’s have been hard on my health – dealing with cancer, homeschooling 3 children, working, and being way too involved in volunteer jobs. This summer all my kids are working, I’m not, and I feel like it is finally my chance to undo some of the damage I’ve allowed by being too busy to take care of myself. Just one week of following the 5 meals a day program and working with weights and I have already seen results. Yippee! I MUST transform my body this summer – the demands of 3 teens once school begins again will make it incredibly hard if I haven’t firmly established my exercise and eating habits. Thanks for the summer challenge!!

The reason I won’t to lose weight and get ripped up are for many reasons. However the main reason is because Iv had people and even read articles talking about how my genetics won’t let me or how I just can’t do it. I have tried a lot of diets and failed losing more muscle then fat and then just going right back to the starting point. This time is different I will not quit no matter the setbacks intel I reach my goal body weight of 6 and shredded up. I’m 22 right now and started at 205 with your book I now weigh 190 my strength had gone up and my body fat is now 12 percent. I’m not done yet though, still a lot of work in front of me. I would love for you to review my plan and make sure I’m doing everything correct though that would be prize enough. Thanks JB Skees

Okay! Gotta get lighter. This is the heaviest I’ve been since I was last pregnant about 30 yrs. ago. All my adult life I’ve been a yo-yo dieter and I’m sick of it. Time to smarten up! I don’t want surgery, in fact, I’m not going to have surgery. I know I can do this without it. Any help I can get would be gratefully accepted. Thanks! *S*

I want to be in better shape at the end of the summer because I want to prove to myself that I am a determined, successful person that can reach anything and that failing is not part of my life anymore. I want to be that happy person with lots of self confidence that I used to be 4 years ago. I haven’t been at the beach for the past 3 years only because I don’t feel comfortable in a bikini….and the beach is one of my favorite places…I need to transform my body NOW – in the next 98 days- because I don’t want to waste anymore time living an unhappy life. I am 25 years old and don’t want to miss out on life, the way I did in the last 3 years. I want to have 100% control over my life NOW and not let “food” control my life any longer!!!

My 25 year school reunion is this year. I gave up cigarettes a year ago and put up 2 stone so i now look like crap. I am NOT going to look like crap for the reunion. Your assistance and encouragement will be a massive help. Many thanks

Ups… I forgot to write why it’s a MUST:-). It’s a must, because I’m sure that after sticking to heathly diet and working out for 98 days and seeing the results, I will not want to turn back anymore

I MUST succeed at this contest this summer so I can set an example to my un-healthy crash dieting family of what can be done with a consistant healthy diet and active lifestyle. I will also get the body I have always wanted.

I want to have the best body possible and I chosen to do it the healthiest and hardest way possible. I am recovered from an eating disorder that I had for over 12 years. There are still days that I struggle, but I am now in the best shape I have ever been. I am learning to deal with issues head on instead of running from them to my eating disorder.I want to prove that you can have a sexy toned body and be very healthy…not skinny sick like I was before. This is my personal goal to promote a healthy lifestyle and attitude to all young women out there who are given false images of beauty in the media. Frankly it makes me sick…it’s a lie!I am on a mission now and will not stop until I reach my goals!!!Sarah

I am currently in a program to become a health counselor and while I am not out of shape I realize that I have been playing games with the last 10 pounds for 20 years. In order for me to be a guiding force in a clients transformation, I need to do the same for myself. I am finally at the point where I realize it isn’t for anyone else but me – I am ready and excited!

Sorry, I did not include my last initial. My full name is Petra Schumann

First off, Thank you! Tom for helping my wife and I transform our bodies and our minds. I purchased your E-book Back in Feb. 2010. My wife and I had already begun changing our diets and dropped a few pounds, but since we started integrating your program our results have been remarkable. When I start tracking my body fat back on 2/20 my numbers were as follows 206.6 lbs., 22.77% body fat, which was 47 lbs. of fat and only 159.6lbs. of lean mass. Today I weigh 190 lbs. with my body fat down to 13.2%, which brings my body fat down to only 25.08 lbs. And my lean muscle up to 164.92. My wife has had great results as well.Now onto my musts. I must continue on the journey I’ve already started because I haven’t reached my body fat goals. I remember before I used to think I’d never be under 200 lbs. again. Now my goal is for the first time in my life I want a six pack of abs instead of a six pack of beer. I used to like beer, but since I read your book and how alcohol sabotages fat loss I barely touch it anymore. I must reach my goals if I have any shot of winning the body transformation contest, which I’m totally psyched to be entering. I must be in the best shape of my life because Now that I have all this new found energy I feel unstoppable, not just in my fitness but in all aspects of my life. I must get in the best shape of my life because I’ll never go back to eating and drinking the way I used to. I feel to awesome and my little girls (ages 2 and 4)like the “new daddy” who has the energy to play with them. Again, thanks Tom for all your hard work and dedication. You’ve given us the information to change our lives.

I want to be in better shape at the end of the summer than I am today because I want to be faster and stronger on my bicycle, I want to reduce the pain and stiffness in my hips, I want to love the body I wear every day, I want to be stronger in all my movements, I want to set an example for my family and my friends and my clients, I want to wear body hugging clothes, I want to lose my excess fat once and for all, I want to live a long and active life, and I want to be deep down happy with my accomplishments. Transforming my body NOW is an absolute MUST for me because I am only 52 years old, but I suffer from hip arthritis that keeps me from doing all the things I want to do. And if I lose my excess fat, I will become faster and stronger and experience less pain in everything I do.

I want to lose fat and gain muscle cause i want to be a sexy mama on the beach and inspire other moms to get in shape and be confident. Having kids doesn’t mean its over for you to care about your body. I MUST lose 15 pounds in the next 3 months and MUST get leaner and gain quality muscle. IT CAN BE DONE! I MUST take pictures and measurements and only weight bi-weekly.

I MUST burn the last 15kgs of body fat. The excess fat is affecting my self esteem, confidence, workouts and my very first health problem – the fatty liver!!! My body is my temple, the only place I live in, I MUST feed it nourishing foods and workout appropriately to keep it functioning optimally. One day after the challenge ends I have my tickets booked to Paris, if I do not complete this challenge and burn at least 10kgs of fat I will not go on my holiday, I won’t get a refund – I just won’t go..I have attempted to lose this last bit of fat before my reason why has changed slightly. From I hates myself because I am fat, to I love myself and I will do everything in my power to have a healthy body.I want to be on stage competing next year, which means this year I MUST burn that fat!!!

I want to finally break free from the mentality that I’ve held for so long and that is perpetuated by the fitness and fashion industries: that to be thin, you must starve yourself or work yourself to the bone. I am determined not to become another prediabetic statistic. I want health in abundance for a lifetime.

This contest is important to me because I have already come in great strides, I have lost over 40KG to come down from 175 to 135 (which took about 14 months) and I haven’t gone anywhere for over 12 months (BUT! I didn’t put any weight back on! Because I didn’t just diet, I CHANGED MY LIFESTYLE and eating habbits.. so I have maintained my newer low weight)I recently started back on the downhill slide and I have made progress and then just as I’m getting into this contest comes along! Even more motivation to burn harder! I know I can make a BIG difference in 3 months so following along with this contest will boost the motivation I already have to keep transforming myself into the healthy person I have NEVER been!Love your work Tom, looking forward to it :)

Having spent all my life obese, I went on an incredibly strict diet and stuck to it for 4 years. After moving and living out of suitcases for a year, my old habits started to creep back in and I have now gained back a lot of the weight I worked so hard to lose.I had been a happy size, could finally fit into a bikini and felt confident in myself. Now I find myself scared to hop on the scales or even try to put on my own jeans as I know I will be disappointed. I MUST find a sustainable option as I never want to go back to the way I was- no confidence and no life.I have been getting the “Burn The Fat” blogs for the last few months and enjoy reading each one. Also learning a bit about health over the last few years I agree with your thoughts Tom and I MUST put your ideas into practice.I hope you can help me go back to the happy, healthy and confident person I was not so long ago.I MUST put the old fat and unhealthy me in the past forever!

In September is my 30th Birthday. I want to be back in shape for this special event in my life. I opened my own Promotional Product Company last year and have been on the excercise/diet yo-yo. I find it hard to make time for myself, working out. When in all actuality it would probably help not only me but my business succeed. I would like to be part of this experience so I can be surrounded with people who are after the same goals I am.Good Luck Everyone!

The reason I want to transform my body is because I’ve been overweight my entire life. I’m going to be 24 years old this year, and I’ve been limited by my weight since I was a kid.I’ve been able to shed 40 lbs by myself, but I would love to win membership to the inner circle so I can have that support system I don’t have at home. It’s hard for me to continue with my weight loss journey when my family is around me eating fast food. If I had the support applauding my efforts instead of trying to steer me off track I know I’d be able to reach my ultimate goal of being healthy and living the life a young person should.

Come hell or highwater I AM regaining my physical fitness in the next three months! I owe it to myself, my four kids, but ultimately to myself. I am too important to be consumed by ill health and overweight. I AM an active vibrant person, I love myself, my family and my body that is currently hidden inside a cocoon. I am like the beautiful butterfly just waiting to emerge!!! Watch out world! Here I come!Wow! Feel that energy, even typing motivation gives you motivation! KAPOWWW!!!!!!

I want to be in better shape this summer because I am tired of being the big guy, It now defines me, its how people describe me. I am not content with the way I am, even though I have improved. This isnt just for vanity though, its also for my health, I have had high blood pressure since I was 16. Above all, I want to be healthy, and change my lifestyle so I can remain healthy for the rest of my life.I am 270 pounds, and in my early twenties, I feel like there is no better time than now to make my dream a reality; if I can’t do it in my twenties, then its only going to get harder as I get older. I feel the longer I live being unhappy with myself and my image, is time being wasted, time that I can be using to make myself better, and healthier.

My reason for getting in the best shape of my life? I am turning 49 next month, recently divorced, raising my daughter, and I want to see my abs for the first time in my life. I am one of those tall “chubby” thin men. I am 6’3″ and I have never hit 200#s but I have never showed real muscle definition. I am looking forward to achieving that ultimate level of fitness that very few people ever attain. I am close to my goal but need that final extra help/push/coaching to make those abs pop!!!

I am entering my ‘Golden Years”, I have never had a weight problem, so dieting is foreign to me. Now that I have hit 59, I have a ‘middle’ that I don’t recognize when I look in the mirror…I must make it go away, it is a set-up for diabetes, high blood pressure, all those diseases that I must stay away from. If I don’t start now…it’s only going to get harder to get my belly fat gone….oh please be gone! It’s hard enough to keep a positive self image when your body morphs right before your very eyes…I should start now…with your help I expect to get toned..stay toned and have the best 59 year old body I can have well into my 60’s. Thank You!!

I need and want to be in better shape by the end of the summer beacause 3 years ago the Dr put me on medication that caused me too gain a stone in just 1 week, this all caused me to get Irritable Bowel Syndrome, which unfortunelately causes me too swell up by a dress size over the course of a day. The weight continued too increase which has caused me too go up by 4 dress sizes.I want to transform my body and lose body fat because I don’t want too die prematurely, I have osteoarthritis in my spine and hip.And the extra weight that Iam carrying is causing it too worsen, which has left me almost housebound, so if it doesn’t quickly it will be too late. My husband is also going to do the challenge along with me for his health, as his father passed a year ago yesterday with a sudden massive heart attack, and he wants too hopefully stop himself from having the same fate.Iam desparate too change my lifestyle before it’s two late. I have a 3 year old grandson who loves his Nana, but i would love too be able to play with him more actively, and enjoy him growing up. I also have two other childreen that I want too see getting married and hopefully blessing me with other healthy grandchildren.I just want too be free of the excess body fat and be healthy again, and Im sure that if i do the challenge I will acheive that. hen all I have to do is maintain the lifestyle and keep exercising, as you Tom “Burn the Fat and Feed the Mucsle”

I have to reach my fitness goals before I get married and turn 30!

I am motivated to change my body into a lean, muscular, healthy version of what I have now. I want to have a family and want to be in great shape to do it. I am going to enter the the big burn comp and do my absolute best. I will have success!

I want to continue my journey of living healthy for the past 9 months. I am anxious to reach my goal of

Have lost the weight, now need to tone. Been on my own for 8 years and feel that it may be time to contemplate finding a significant other. A fantastic body gained using Tom’s methods, I feel, could be instrumental in achieving this goal. I am now a happy gym bunny and get agitated when I can’t make it to to the gym, however, I am not getting the results I desire. The transformation contest will give me the imputus needed to achieve my goals, particularly fat loss. Also, my 60 yr old mum has been inspired to start getting fitter from seeing my results so far. Watching me take part in the contest will hopefully inspire her further!

Simple, to jump start a new lifestyle. Not only will I lose weight, but I want to set a good example for my children of healthy living.

Everyday, I wake up leaner, stronger, and healthier. I have long, lean legs and sculpted six-pack abs. My body is the outer expression of my inner beauty, confidence, and strength – all for the intention of sparking monumental inspiration in others. I have always enjoyed helping others realize they are capable of far more than they ever thought possible. This is why I must test my highest potential and reach higher mountians than I’ve ever dreamed possible. I will be the change I wish to see in the world, and I will help others do the same.

I am totally disgusted with myself when I look in the mirror. I used to love to swim, now I am too embarrassed to been seen in a swim suit. I used to bike about 25 to 50 miles almost every day, now I get totally winded riding around the block! I used to be active in the martial arts, now I watch TV on the couch.

I hav been making so many exercise and dietary changes all year and I am tired of not seeing the scale budge. I want to finally see the results I work so hard for. I am ready to re-evaluate and get what I want, a curvy, but firm and toned body

Tom, I listened to your new book on audio CDs, in my car and in my house anytime I didn’t have my kids with me, for at least 2 weeks, morning, noon, and night, over and over. Durng that time, I lost 10 pounds, journaled, ate good food, and worked out every day. The CDs were due at the library and I returned them. Since then, 7 of the 10 pounds have returned to my body, and my eating is in the toilet. I temporarily let go of my number one priority, getting 100% healthy and fit. I must have you and other successful, commited, enthusiastic people in my life as reach my health and fitness goals. I must transform my body because my energy, ideas, accomplishments and love for myself and life will more than double! That is what I want for me and that is what I deserve and what my family deserves.

I have Tom’s audio book and find it very very motivational to keep me walking every day and to stay on track with my diet. I have a hard time not eating all the stuff I like to eat as often as I want but the book and the emails help. Walking is making a difference in my weight.

I’ve been over weight most of my adult life. A few months ago I entered a small body transformation contest and took off 26lbs and 19 inches. I proved to myself without a doubt I truely can do anything I set my mind to and motivate myself to do. Nothing makes me feel as good as taking control. The weight loss it’s self was fantastic but the real success was proving to myself that ‘Yes I Can!” I have roughly another 50 to 60 lbs to lose and I have no doubt I can do it. I have been educating myself regarding nutrition (thank you BFFM) so that I can tweak my menus when my weight stalls…which it did for 3 months so I knew I was doing something wrong. I’ve always been active so working out isn’t the problem, nutrition has been the problem. So my goal is to zap as much excess fat as possible starting with the 98 day Summer Challenge. I have no doubt it will take me longer than 98 days but hey, the 98 days are going to pass any way right? I believe it’s better to spend that time torching the fat and building the muscle than running in place.

Tom,There are so many reasons I want to enter this contest. I’ve always expressed how important being healthy is to my three children. I exercise regularly, but revert to bad eating habits often. Especially not eating enough during the day and then eating way too much during the evening. I want to find balance between the two, the recipe for success. Sometimes I feel like there is so much information out there it is hard to see the forest through the trees. Six meals a day, only three meals a day, Atkins, South Beach, etc., etc. It’s like giving someone 10,000 maps and saying, “your destination is in there somewhere”, good luck. Oh, really? Well I think I’m on my 600th map, so I’m hoping I have finally found my way. I have spent countless nights researching, listening, and I am ready. I don’t want a quick fix. I want a lifelong change. I want to be good role model for my children, a good role model for those around, I want a balanced me.In addition, on May 28th my aunt who has terminal cancer and been given 2-3 months will be moving in with me, along with my 12 year old cousin. I know this will be a difficult time, I know that along with stresses of bills, taking care of my family, aunt, and cousin, I will need to take care of myself. I don’t want to lose site of that. This challenge is coming at the perfect time. The support, the challenge and the reminders of how important is to keep myself strong is just what I’ll need. Tom, thank you for giving me the opportunity to participate in something that just might save my life, emotionally and physically.

I have done other weight loss programs (BFL) and found some success. Now I feel like I’m ready to graduate to the ‘next level’. BFFM is by far the most comprehensive and detailed instruction manual to get me to my goal.I have decided to take my ‘not so bad but not all that’ self and work hard, eat clean and get to my ultimate goal of a fitness/figure comp. There is a competition coming to my city in October which should give me plenty of time to get pretty freakin’ awesome!I MUST do this summer challenge so that I WILL compete in October and I WILL be at the top of my game.I WILL show that I have the discipline and the desire to see this fitness journey through a comp and beyond.I WILL lose approximately 17 lbs of FAT and gain some wonderful lean muscle.I WILL drop 8-10% BF.I WILL be a fantastic and motivating role model to my kids, my friends, family and anyone else out there who I could possibly help to lead a healthier and happier life.

Hi Tom!I had written to you in a previous Blog and asked if you could offer me any words of encouragement to help me decide whether or not I could do this challenge (two special needs children and a chaotic life) and two things stuck with me after I was done reading it. Since I am very family committed, your first point about making a commitment to myself for the benefit of my family and taking some “appropriately selfish” time to be kind and good to myself so that I could in turn take care of my family really gave me the permission I needed to do this and to be committed to it. The second thing you said was that I could make a couple of small changes if I felt I couldn’t follow through with the whole thing; I could at least do that much. When you said this, the first thing that popped into my mind was “baby steps.” Since my daughter is Down Syndrome, this has been our motto with her progress since she’s been born. Her transformation is excruciatingly slow and sometimes painful and the saying of “baby steps” is what gets us through. I guess when you look at the challenge as a whole, it can become very overwhelming and even downright scary. The fear of failure, personal or otherwise can stop us in our tracks. After praying about this decision and contemplating the good that can come of it, I have decided to participate to the best of my ability. Summertime has always been the hardest time for me. The kids are home and the stress is high but if I commit to this challenge and do really well, I will have proven to myself that I can overcome my own mind and body. By the way, thank you for your kind answer to my previous question and again, God Bless You for all you do!

Im thirty four and I’ve never been completely physically fit. The closest I came was early fall when I was doing BFFM – and doing WELL with it, and lost ten pounds in about a month, and then enrolled in grad school and fell far off the wagon. It is different *this* time because I know that BFFM works, I know that this is possible, and I have a long stretch of non-school time to establish healthy habits to carry me through the fall.Largely, I need to do it because for all my life this has been an impossible thing, and I need to show myself that the mindset of “I will always be fat, it’s just the way I am” is only a mindset, and that I can be whatever I want to with enough effort and focus. I HAVE to break the idea that this is impossible for me. It is NOT impossible. And I have to prove it to myself, that I’m not too fat or too lazy or too anything to be healthy – and that I deserve to be healthy.

I MUST see my abs. The reason is because I want to be a “flat belly.” I’ve always admired them. By getting one myself, I will show myself, I can master myself.

Being in top shape this summer is important because last summer I was in the worst shape of my life. Last summer was when I decided to change my life. It was our annual family roadtrip to the lake. We took our grandchildren for the first time, just like our parents had done with our children years ago. We had 4 generations of family ready to enjoy our week outdoors. But this year was different, my father, age 72, had developed diabetes and I was having prediabetic symptoms at age 50 and 280 pounds and over 30% body fat. I wasn’t able to play with my grandkids or entertain my kids. We spent much of the week planning around dad’s new meal schedule and 3 needle sticks a day. On that drive home I decided to change my body and my life. So far, I’ve lost 58 pounds, gone from size 40 pants to size 34 (my high school size) and am down to 19% body fat. Most importantly, my cholesterol, blood glucose, triglycerides, and blood pressure are all down to normal WITH NO MEDICATION. Adopting a healthy nutrition lifestyle was not nearly as hard as I’d feared. Training and working out were foreign concepts to me but with the help of good trainers and coaches like Tom and the support and encouragement of friends, family, and coworkers, I’m working out 6 days a week and have visible muscle mass. I’m still not at my final goal but this year, I’ll be waterskiing again and my grandkids will learn the joys of summer from their 51 years young grandfather. They call me “Big Daddy” but the title is now purely an affection and not a descriptor. If I can do it anyone can. Stay focused and work hard. You Are Worth It!

Hi Tom,To answer your questions, the first was not difficult.I want to be in better shape at the end of summer than I am today because I started last October and the goal for me is to be 50# lighter by this October.I need to be much lighter to withstand the rigors of the new direction I am going in life.After a great start by just losing inches, I then switched things up to start adding muscle and put on 10# worth.I still have a ways to go and at age 49, I’m finding that it does not seem to happen as quick as I would like.As for it being an absolute MUST, my desire is to hike many of the trails in the U.S. and film the adventures for educational purposes. A total career change for my wife and I.Backpacking equipment, food and water is heavy enough but I will be bringing filming and audio equipment as well as the accessories needed to stay in the woods for days on end.Being 24% body fat is not healthy.I am very grateful I am not at the plus 36% as when I started but still, I am too heavy for my frame.I need to be at 12% or below so that I can continue with my career change, hiking, filming and ENJOYING the great outdoors.With the fat on my frame I can kiss the dream good bye.It has to come off and I’m willing to do what it takes.My WHY is big and is truly a passion for me.Your material finds me at a time when I need a boost to keep my internal furnace burning fat.Everything seems to have stalled out for me and I can not figure out what.***I am thankful I found your interview with Steve Yu.He is a friend of mine so seeing that helped seal the deal for me.I look forward to our time together and I hope that my story and my daily up beat attitude will help someone along the way.Till then,Keep it simple, keep it positive and keep moving forward, always forward!~ Pete

I must succeed in this contest because, I’m a fitness instructor who is still having a tough time getting those final 30-40 lbs off. I was once morbidly obease at 260 lbs and I’ve lost 80lbs by myself, very slowly over several years. We have a quarterly meeting of instructors coming up in late August and I’d love to feel good about myself when I am there. I love fitness, but I don’t look like a group fitness instructor. Also, I must succeed because I just must! I must reach my goal of 15% body fat.

I love all the news letters and the books you write Tom. You provide a wealth of knowledge to someone like me who is a trainer. I got in the health and fitnness business because of the my family history of high blood preassure and obesity. I was a fat kid growwing up but realize the importance of life style choices to maintaining a healthy life and fitness. I am very healthy but I just had torn biceb surgery May 11th of this year. This challenge is a motivation for me to stay healthy and try to gain the muscle mass I lost during the last two months when I tore my biceb from an old shoulder injury. This contest motivates me to stay in shape and not lose focus on training and nutrition. Also will help me with the rehab.

The human body is a machine; a unique machine that can be programmed by reinforcing thought process, into giving up habits picked up and to pick up habits that can reinforce your path to success. This summer is all I have and need to end the 8 years of “reverse-recomposition” and start the body recomposition. Each time I watch the Matrix, I hear the dialogue “Your muscles have atrophied as you have never used them and we are rebuilding them” applies to me directly, where Tom is “Morpheus” to me as Neo, freeing my mind, showing the door, but its only I who can walk through that door. And if I will, I can transform my body, the way I want. After starting Tom’s BFFM program and reading many success stories I BELIEVE that the right path to attain success is to train hard. I’ve also found that planning and executing it does make other areas of life better too. Top this with the NO- NONSENSE, motivational guides and I am sure I will achieve what I want. But there are many more reasons for this. For starters,1. I play cricket and I MUST increase my fitness.2. I Need to be stronger.3. I Need to lose Fat and gain muscle4. I need to train myself into eating healthy and right5. I want to live until I grow very old and still be able to walk on my own feet.Transforming my body NOW- in the next 98 days is an absolute must for me because that’s when the trip to Maui will be a reality. That’s when I will be able to take my shirt off for the New Year and show off my toned abdomen, I see it already; Mid September, the warm beaches, sea food and my photoshoot.There are dreams that you see when asleep, and some that keep you from sleeping. And right now, this is one of the few dreams that prevent me from sleeping, but without a good sleep a nice day never starts. And the night is even better when you’ve already tuned your system to burn fat even when you are asleep. That’s where I want to go. Good night People and Happy Burning

I MUST do this now – become the best I can be – because I am getting older and I want to get a hold of my life, become my most awesomest version NOW – I can’t stand to wait another day!! I want this contest for the motivation, accountability, and SUPPORT to keep me on track – I WANT it I MUST have it but it’s those last 3 areas – the support, the motivational forces, the accountability, that I have felt the void of when the times have become tough on my own — I KNOW this contest will push me to the next level and I will NOT be content until I get there!!!

I want to transform my body this summer because…over the past couple months I’ve lost my biceps vein. lol In other words, due to a couple minor injuries and major overeating while sitting around, I seem to have put on a layer of fat.The injuries are cleared up and I’ve started back with my workouts and am cutting out the overeating. Yep, you can gain fat on healthy “clean” food. :) (And a few corn chips):)

I will be running my first half marathon in October. This summer I must train and get prepared for it. I have gone from obese to a healthy weight (in the past 17 months), now its the time to learn about fuelling my body as an athlete!I am working on developing a new me – one that is the healthiest that I’ve been my entire life!

By the end of summer I want to weigh 40 lbs. less than I do now. I don’t want to go the route of Nutrisystem or Jenny Craig. I want to do it on my own so I can maintain my weight long afterward. My transformation is needed because my health problems are getting worse as I put more weight on, getting up in the mornings is a chore as I drag my huge body out of bed, and I just feel like crap and I’m not going to take it anymore. I actually sweat walking up a flight of steps and have to stop to take a breather to get to the top of the steps. At the end of the summer I hope to have more energy, jump out of bed in the morning, and wear my clothes more comfortably. It will feel good to be transformed into feeling like a well-oiled athletic machine, sprinting up a flight of stairs, and be able to things with strength and flexibility.

I’m thinking more along the lines of just being big. I’m sick of how skinny I look, so here’s to years of hard work to make amends for my (previously) frail body. but of course, having results in a few months would be awesome, too :)So, at 12% body fat (the leanest I’ve been in my life), I still want to push on to 6 or 7% body fat, because if I think I can do it, I know I can. And also gain about 20 lbs more muscle. But more realistically, i’ll probably gain 10 lbs of muscle over the course of 3 months. Still, if I can get that in a month, I’ll raise that goal to 20 lbs in 3 months, and so on :)I should never be satisfied with the way I look.But thanks for the motivation anyway, Tom!

To transform my body became a MUST when I realised how hard it was lo look in the mirror and dont see the fat on my body and when I realised after reading this blog that it is not so difficult if one wants to lose that fat and become a lean, healthy person.To transform my body is a MUST, because I MUST be healthy and fit! I dont want to get tired when the elevator is not working and I need to get to 5th floor, and dont want to get tired, when I need to run a bit for the bus, I just want to feel and look like a healthy person.

Last August I moved back to IN after living for 14 months in MS. I moved with my 4 kids and without my husband. We are not “separated” or divorced. He works in Memphis, our home is in IN. I came back for our kids. Long story.Since then, I’ve given up working out and following my low glycemic index diet. The result is I’ve gained back nearly 30 lbs, I’m back up to a 16 jean, my back hurts again, my knees hurt again, my body is all messed up, I’m continuously ill, I’m depressed, and the list goes on and on.Being single 5 days a week with 4 kids is HARD! My work load is almost undoable; my stress level is off the charts. I can’t leave my kids for 2 hrs a day to workout, I can’t do it at home (they won’t let me), I don’t have the time, I don’t have the energy. These are my excuses. These are my reasons. And they are good ones, but, I can’t have excuses and reasons anymore.My body and soul are dying. Literally. I have to do this to save myself. Not just physically, but emotionally and mentally, too. This person I’ve become is not me. It’s the hollow shell of the person I know I am. Working out, be fit, being happy, being proud of myself, they are all an integral part of who I am and I’ve lost that part of me to self-pity and depression.For me it’s not a matter of should. It’s a matter of MUST. I must save the person I am before she’s gone for good!

Hi,My reasons are fairly straightforward:1. My parents-in-law are visiting very soon (for the first time in the country we currently live)2. I promised I’d take a family picture with my wife and son this summer when he comes to visit. I wouldn’t last year because I was too overweight. (Plus, I want to surprise my son.)3. Tired of the view I saw in the mirror.I started dieting and working out again 6 weeks ago, and have already lost approximately 7 kilo. It definitely shows. I still have more to lose before my son arrives, but I’m focused, determined, and confident I will reach my goals.The material in Burn the Fat, Feed the Muscle is great stuff and has been helpful over the years.All the best!

I`m ready to finally change my life & body. Tom your book is amazing. thank you.

Why get lean? Why now, the summer of 2010? Because I want to grow greater, not older. Because I want sixty to be twice as great as fifty was. Because I want to bounce in the jump house with my great nephews in the glorious sun. Because I want to run with the kiddos at the preschool, where I teach. Because life is meant to be lived with gusto and older is the next marvelous adventure.

Hi all.When I was 39, I weighted 130Kg and because of this, I had a back injury. I managed to loose 45Kg and eventually got to 85Kg / 20% body fat at the age of 42. How I did it?Basically, lots of exercise (running and weight training, 5 or 6 sessions a week, 1 to 1.5 hr). Now I am 46, and for the last 4 years I’ve had a time demanding work that doesn’t allow me to keep this level of workouts. As a result, my weight has gone up to 105Kg / 30% body fat.So I have made a commitment with myself to get down to 85Kg / 15% body fat. My previous strategy won’t work because of time restrictions, and in this economy, changing job isn’t as easy as it used to be. I am reading BFFM to get new ideas of how to get rid of all the extra fat my body has now. I’m confident I will succeed, because I have done it before.

From the age of 11 to nearly 16 I was badly bullied, I began to gain weight steadily as I ate more and more to escape this. I’ll always wonder why I didn’t tell anyone and why it went unnoticed. After that I tried on and off to lose weight an like anyone who isn’t motivated I failed because I didn’t want to do it for the right reasons.It’s my 29 birthday soon and just recently I have found many things to motivate me. Some are silly some not but everything has come together albeit a bit late, but better than never! Just a couple of examples. 1). I want to race cars and there’s a limit for weight at most venues to get a race license, that’s a silly one, but important to me! 2). I want to be a good role model for my nephew.Anyway I have all the motivation I need from my family and I realise I’ve been making excuses that hold no value for many years. There is no reason not to be fit and healthy for me!

I MUST enter the ‘BTF Summer Challenge’….because it’s winter down in Australia & I’m struggling getting out of the bed in the morning & doing my regular excercise – be it the bike, weights the last month it’s got much colder in the mornings & I have had a real problem getting out from under the doona (OK, duvet or quilt to those non-Australians reading this).A year ago I dropped 12cm off the waistline & 10kgs so thought I was doing well (& I MUST keep it off) but confession-time: I never got past reading Chapter 5 of BTF-FTM. So my other MUST is that I must finish reading BTF-FTM that I bought 18-odd months ago.

I’d be interested to win anything from such a great guy!

I MUST lose weight and burn body fat during the Summer Challenge because it will be a continuation of the BFFM program I’ve worked for the past 10 months, my 30th reunion is in September and I need to be in great shape for it, and May 2011 is a 10K that I will compete in and a lighter weight would make it easier.

Tom-I want to enter the challenge b/c I hurt my back a while back and have gotten out of tip top shape and the extra motivation of a contest is just what I need to get back in the shape I was in a year ago! I NEED to be in very good shape for my business. I am a motivator for others:)

I MUST transform my body now!!! I’ve never known what it feels like to be “normal” sized! As I freshman in high school, I was 225 lbs. & after 6 months of powerlifting I zoomed up to 285 lbs. & I was always “encouraged” during school that big size meant big power…(i.e.. wrestling & football)Now, at age 45, the weight has still been zooming up! I reached a high point of 490 lbs. last year & have been struggling to get the weight off. I’ve battled yo-yo’ing he weight since then!! Fortunately, I don’t have serious health issues at this point (no diabetes, blood pressure problems) but I know it’s a matter of time if I don’t change!!I MUST also change because of the terrible habits that I’m teaching my children. Most of my kids are overweight. (Ages 8 to 23 are overweight-6 daughters!!!!WHEW!!) I need to start motivating & teaching them to change their lives & the best way I can teach them is by example!!I look forward to this opportunity to break the cycle that I’m in & I’m determined to make this a life changing experience for me & my family!! Thanks for all to do!!!!

Hi Tom:I must do this challenge because I want to avoid another hip restructuring surgery. I had one operation in September 2009 and I was scheduled for my next one on April 23, 2010. To get me through the painful wait, the doctor arranged a cortisone shot which tremendously eased the pain. I was so excited not to be in excrutiating pain that I never bothered to contact my doctor until March to sign papers for my next surgery. When he saw me walking without a cane and not grimacing from pain, he went into “full talk me out of having having the surgery mode” and encouraged me to try to achieve a quality of life with the pain I currently had. He gave me time to decide and permission to play golf again after ten months. I tried the golf and whilst there was some pain (but mostly a protective attitude when swinging) with two weeks to go before the surgery, I cancelled. I’m in the midst of renovations whilst living in the house and so my life has been chaotic and I haven’t begun to attempt to transform my body like I’d hoped so that in the end it will be determined that I won’t need surgergy after all. I really must do this to avoid subjecting myself to all the other things that can happen when you go under the knife. How wonderful of the universe to make me pay attention to your e-mail at a time when I had decided that my Inbox was way too full and I was only online to delete. Hopefully I do now have the link to sign up and I am looking forward to beginning and finishing this challenge.

I am entering the summer challenge because I have wanted to get in the best shape I can be for the last 9 years and I am not wasting one more year on this dream. I will do it this time. I work in a ladies gym and I want to make a difference in their lives. I realize I must become the change I want to see in them. I cant help them unless I first help myself. No more looking back for me. I will achieve my goal weight and be so proud and happy at the end of this challenge.

What are my reasons for change and the necessity to transform my body by the end of this summer?I’ve lost touch with a very dear friend of mine for the past 10 years. Allow me to explain. In 2000, I was an unstoppable force. I was a certified NSCA personal fitness trainer and three-time bodybuilding competitor. Fitness was at the center of my life and as an Air Force Sergeant, I readily accepted my role as a leader to help others in their quest for a healthier lifestyle. Fast forward to today…I’ve become the antithesis of all that I once was and believed in. I’ve gone from a very lean 160lbs to 220lbs of “jello” in the past 10 years. A recent medical examination revealed borderline to high numbers for cardiac disease across the board. I feel the prime years of my life have suddenly passed me by with no hope in sight. What tears me up the most…I continue to posses more knowledge about nutrition and exercise than many of my friends, but I would never think about engaging in any conversation that leads toward a discussion on health. Any recommendation coming from my mouth would simply be dismissed; I’ve tragically lost all the credibility I worked so hard to gain.I do long to reunite with my long, lost friend.I’m 41 years old, still serving my country in the Air Force, and I’m the proud father of two little divas (7 years old and 2 years old). So why must I make this change? If I don’t then I’m very likely at the tail end of my days (instead of half way). If I don’t then I’ll continue to lead my troops based on my inherent authority vice the influence a fit appearance brings to the table. If I don’t then I may not walk my daughters down the aisle on their wedding days.Last week, I rushed my boss to the hospital at 1:00 am. Little did we know that he experienced a mild heart attack. Later that day, the doctors inserted a stint to clear some significant blockage in one area of his heart. I’ve quickly come to realize how I’ve allowed my health to become so fragile, and I’m at the point of “critical mass”. I have the knowledge, I have my reasons, and now Tom has provided the way…I’m ready to join my fellow comrades in this mission; we deserve this!

I need to do this because I am always feeling tired, grouchy & irritable. It’s not fair to my kids.I joined Weight watchers in 2007, reached my goal & have lost 26lbs, however I stopped going to the weekly meeting in 2009, well lo & behold the weight is creeping up. I am 5lbs away from when i started with weight watchers.I know that it was weight loss & not fat loss and this is why I must do this. I want to lose fat. I wanna be able to wear skinny jeans with fitted top, not a lose flowy top so that I could cover my stomach rolling over my jeans. I wanna be able to wear a 2pc bikini (by itself) cause I have never in my life. I have always had cellulite on my buttocks. I look at my legs & it reminds me of a tree stump.I want to give this transformation as a gift to myself by Sept. because I’ll turn 35.

I have been overweight most of my life, starting because my parents used food as rewards, then when I grew up I used food to cure boredom, heartbreak, excitement, etc.I have always wanted to get rid of all this fat I carry around, but I have recently been diagnosed with diabetes, which really gave me the kick in the butt that I needed… Something snapped inside me, I am more motivated than ever to lose this FAT. I want to lose all the unwanted fat, and become fit, so that I can help other people like me, who are obese but don’t really know how to get out of the rut of emotional eating and laziness. I want to be a personal trainer. Plus I have a 3 year old son, every time I look at him I wonder if I will be around to see him graduate high school, get married, or have kids. I want nothing more than that, & I know if I stay on the track I am now I won’t get to see any of those things.These are just a couple of my reasons, but really I want to do this to turn my whole life around, have confidence in my body, and be fit & healthy! I want to pass on good habits to my little boy too.So it’s not that I “should” lose FAT it’s that I NEED or MUST lose FAT! and I’m a hundred percent commited to doing it!

My reason why I must lose body fat is for self-esteem purposes. I’ve always been very concious of my chubby appearance even at a young age, and by a twist of odd events ended up in the university course Bachelor of Science, specializing in Exercise and Health.The females I sit in class with are all slim, with very little body fat. The guys – all muscular or toned.We got tested for body composition in lab classes and guess who ends up with the highest amount? Me. I can see the smirks all around. I’m not blind.Currently we have practical swmming classes and too embarassed, I wear shorts on top of my speedos even though it’s not allowed and dread it when we have to strip to jump into the pool.I like what I’m studying, but hate my course because of those who surround me. In fact, I have been cutting class – just so I don’t have to face them. My grades have slipped to almost failing…I want to switch… But I realize that would be giving up and admitting defeat.Which is why this is important to me.Next time we do a body composition test in front of the class or have to wear a swimsuit without board shorts for practical swimming classes – at least I know I can proudly hold my head up high.

It may be summer for you guys over there but here in Australia it is the start of our winter.Brrrr.It is also a time where alot of people push their fitness to the side and think” oh I will wait till summer is coming on and then get into losing weight, getting exercise etc”, but really looking after ourselves should be an all year round thing we do.Even the gym numbers drop off during this time of year.For me , it is a MUST that I continue going to my Gym, it is a Must that I continue on my weight loss/ fitness journey and a big Must to continue my body building transformation.The past years journey has been a time that I truely feel alive and feel so in love with life that I want this journey to continue forever and Competitions WIN OR NOT are the extra motivation you need to challenge yourself even more.

Transforming my body this summer will be the end of a journey that started this Feb. I started out at 240 and 36 inch waist. I have now gotten myself down to 193 and 30 inch waist. Although I will not be able to compete with the rest of the contestants as far as weight and fat lose, I will be able to use this to help shed those last fifteen pounds and be able to see the six pack again. I started out to prove to everyone that it is possible to do this, however much to my surprise and delight it is fast becoming a lifestyle. I would like to extend my best wishes to everyone. See you all at the end of the contest.

I remember once as a kid asking my mom why this healthy, active family on the street seemed so much prettier than we were. Blunt question, but I suppose curious kids can be like that. To this day, I will always remember that she said ‘oh, honey, we can’t do anything about it, it’s just genes’. Of course, I didn’t know then that the other family probably wasn’t eating three+ donuts a day as snack food, love, distraction or stress relief. Needless to say, I was one of the fat kids hiding my body away in middle and high school, topping out at 190 with horrible eating habits, and laughable muscle mass.I’ve learned a lot since. A few years after high school I joined Army ROTC as a dare to myself one summer, and got down to 145, but it was a hungry, uneven weight, and even though I learned that I could push myself, I still didn’t understand much about the nuances of real nutrition or self-care. During stress-times, I’ve lost the rhythm and gotten higher again, and it was a regular struggle. But I learned a lot along the way, along with how *much* I enjoy movement and giving my body good fuel, and last year I committed to integrating my wisdom into slow lifestyle changes, and lost 20 pounds. Not the fastest rate, and not my lowest exactly, but I’ve kept it off since January, without driving myself crazy or things being ‘perfect’, and to me becoming a pretty consistent ‘maintainer’ of mind-and-soul-healthy attitudes and actualizing them in reality has been one of the best things I ever gave myself.Why now? A friend of mine decided *not* to do this challenge with me because she thinks ‘competing’ it will ping her perfectionistic tendencies too much. And I totally respect where she is on her path. But for me, this is the first time in my life that I feel truly, evenly healthy and confident enough to show off my physical weaknesses publicly and work on them consistently with a team without getting perfectionistic, or distracted by all the other things going on in my life. Of course, I’m sure I will have down days. But I’m ready. I think it will give me a huge sense of accomplishment to kick up the intensity and focus, and just stay through to the end of a *longer* (not crash) 14 weeks, instead of being in this sort of limbo-land where I’m ‘sortof’/mostly healthy. I’ve always considered myself a one-piece bathing suit kind of girl. And maybe I’ll find out I still at the end. But regardless…I deserve to see what the healthiest, most beautiful me can be.So, really, I’m *choosing* this ‘must’ of three-month focus. Conveniently, though, in the short-term, I’ve got a wedding I’m going to be bridesmaid for at the end of July. Those pictures are permanent, historical. There’s a dress fitting in a little over a month. And on that last leg of the challenge… well, I’m insatiably curious, and I deeply want to see what my potential really looks like. What would I look like if I lost 20 pounds? That final 5? I don’t know, but finding out will be just in time for bikini-sales!

Entering and Winning a trip to Maui is a bonus. Getting the body transformation would be the ultimate reward.From my teens throughout college I was very active in dance and sports. I went from 115lbs to 160lbs after college. I didn’t realize it until my sister’s boyfriend at the time called me “healthy”. I figured it was because I didn’t eat fried or processed foods. I ate a bit too well with the combination of not being so physically active since college. At the age of 25, my mother was diagnose with advance colon cancer. She put up a great fight to prove to all the doctors that she could live beyond 4 months. She struggled and passed to a better life when i turned 26. I lost my best friend and realize that life is not over. I took the unfairness of losing my mother and started to pick up running because I got tired of crying. Soon the running was my emotional release and I felt accomplish not realizing the distance but not eating mindlessly in sorrow, grief and anger. As a result, I ran my first marathon in honor for my mother. Each mile of the 26 miles represented each year I had with her. The .2 towards the finish well it opened my eyes by showing me that everythig is going to be alright from here on out. Tears of happiness came out and I smiled once I crossed that finish line. It was a wonderful, stressful, emotional and physical journey as a closure and a beggining of a new chapter in life. From that experience, I dropped to 120 lbs. That’s 40lbs lost from depression, anger and guilt. That journey made me want to share my transformation, so I decided to become a personal trainer. I’ve been a personal trainer for 2 years and I discoverd that I really enjoy the sense of empowerment and confidence from strength trainer. In college, I would take one of those aerobic/circut toning condition class and now i train 6 times a week! A fellow trainer at my gym is a bodybuilding enthusiast. I was amazed by the female figure athletes. I research as asked many trainers on natural bodybuilding. From that point, I decided to enter my first natural show last year. I placed 8th out of 15 in my division last year. Not know if I trained and or diet properly, I loved the whole experience of being on that stage. And I want to do it again! I found my new sport that is the fuel to my passion in fitness and health. This year i plan on entering another contest and my goal is to beat my 8th place standing More than anything, I’m ready how I feel on the inside as well as help motivate others to get over what ever hurdles they have in their life. Tom what you created is a great idea. Prize or no prize. It’s the motivation for me to reach my persoal best at 34 years old. Thank you. I’m looking forward to the challenge.

The reason I’m going to transform my body this summer is to prove to myself that I can close the deal. I came close to my ultimate goal last year, but stumbled before the finish line. Not this summer.

I *MUST* take action… I am 100lbs overweight and at age 42 feel like I have the body of an 80 year-old blob. I have no energy for anything, and have missed out on years of involvement with my kids. My clothes seldom fit right, even the ones I buy at my big & tall store. I worry about how friends, family, and co-workers see me and think less of me because of my poor physique. My wife stopped being attracted to me years ago. To top it all off, I am starting to develop health problems that are obesity-related and these will only get worse if I don’t make a change. Chronic back & knee pain, depression, and reduced sexual function so far, but my family history and low HDL levels point to clogged arteries and Type-2 diabetes in my future. As the saying goes: “get busy living, or get busy dying!” If I want to have any chance to get my life back, I MUST TAKE ACTION NOW!

Why is transforming my body in the next 98 days important to me? For too long I have been just “trying” to get my weight down. Yes I have a lot of muscle, but I still have too much fat. I have been using excuses that my thyroid is the cause, but I can over come that excuse. I have been fortunate that my physicals show I don’t have diabetes or issues like that, but I can’t keep playing “health roulette” staying the way I am. Eventually my luck would run out. So I am going to transform my life so I can see my grandchildren graduate and have kids of their own.

Tom,This is a big year for me. I finally graduated with my bachelors at the age of 47. I’m beginning a new chapter in my life and there are multiple items that need to be fixed. Some are typical as in better job, grad school, nicer house, debt free but the ones that are critical to me are losing the fat and getting ripped. I have played with weights for a long time but I am going to change my physical life as well as my intellectual life. I am going to be below 10% body fat and I am going to be in the best shape that I have ever been in. I am going to be back to benching 300 pds and I am going to Maui with the best transformation that you have ever seen. This contest couldn’t have come at a better time for me.

I have been planning on making a lot of changes in my life. I haven’t enjoyed my work for a while now, I was injured in soccer and out for almost two months of which I slacked and didn’t keep my eating habits or fitness level in check and I am running into money issues because I have been in and out of sales jobs. I am tired of hearing everyone tell me “but you have so much potential” because the only words I hear from that are “you failed”. I want to take back my life and live it the way I want: rehab my ankle to full strength an get myself back up to par with where I know my health, and physical skill level can be at soccer and get rid of my procrastination and distraction behaviours that have put my potential on hold in way too many aspects of my life. This contest is the motivation and accountability I need as not only a transformation of body but of my mind and menality as well.

hi…i have a sweet tooth and no matter how much i try i am unable to give up the habit of drowning myself in sweets…..it was ok before i got pregnant and gained 10 kilos extra……now everytime i look at myself in the mirror, its like i am searching for the old me…..and i desperatly want to be the old me…..who looked better. i also want to enjoy the nice sexy clothing available in the market. so dear tom i hope that by participating in this challenge i will finally be able to achieve my dream……thanks for finding me!!!!!

I know I want to be in better shape by the end of the summer because at 47 years old, there will be no better time to rekindle my dream of completing 100 miles of Marathon running by the time I’m 50.My transformation now is a MUST because time is running out for me to get back in shape so I can get back in uniform before I’m too old by military standards to do so. Following my tour of duty in 2004, a medical operatioin to repair injuries and slow recovery time created a cycle of painful joints due to weight gain, and even more painful joints when exercising to lose weight.I no longer have the cartilage to lose fat the way I did when I ran 2 Marathons in a 6 year period. I need to train smarter, not harder.A copy of Burn The Fat, Feed the Muscle and being a member of the Inner Circle would provide the knowledge to win this battle and regain my health without re-injuring myself.

I have a long way to go, so won’t be in the best shape ever in 98 days, but I will be in much better shape. A good platform to continue my journey back to overall health and fitness. The reasons why I want to be in better shape at the end of the summer is because I want to stop my dependence on my prescriptions (with dr. supervision of course). I used to be a competitive swimmer and miss working with my body instead of feeling like I’m in a constant battle! I know that if I take care of my body, my body will take care of me. Also, I have recently found my passion and calling as an artist and to be the best artist I can be, the best committee member, and community member, I have to be the best that I can be and lugging around 100 extra pounds isn’t working for me anymore, as stated above, the pain of staying the same now far outweighs (no pun intended), the pain of changing.Transforming my body now, in the next 98 days, is an absolute must for me because I want to live my life to fullest, starting now – not tomorrow, not “Monday,” not when this or that is aligned and the moon is blue. I know that working out and eating healthy energizes me, and this is the perfect way to get into a new momentum to carry me forward for the next 98 days and for the rest of my life.In with a new way of living, out with the old!!In health,Kirsten

I’m 66. I’m the sole bread winner for my wife and my Special Needs Granddaughter. She’s 5. What will she do if I die prematurely because I haven’t taken care of myself?What will my wife of 65 do? She can no longer carry our Granddaughter safely.I’m a paramedic responding to 911 emergencies. What will I do if I cannot carry a patient out of a burning vehicle? What happens to my patients when I cannot pick them up? What will happen to my partner when I cannot carry my end?When am I going to stop doing what I’ve always done, what has brought me to the point where I’m 30% body fat, legs too weak climb stairs, too winded to run, arms too weak to carry a stretcher with a 250 pound heart attack victim? When?NOW!Now is the time I will change my life in order to care for my wife, for my granddaughter, for my patients! I will use the Burn the Fat Challenge and the next 98 days to reshape my physical and mental health, my spiritual health, to a healthy lifestyle. I will learn how to incorporate the 5 elements, the 5 pillars of health into my daily living, and I will do so!And my body change will be the visible embodiment of my life change. My new body will be the mirror of my new, healthier approach to daily living, eating, working, exercising, and playing.This is what the Burn the Fat Challenge will mean to me, will be for me. I have 98 days to reach my measurable goal: I will move from 30% body fat to below 20%, without losing a single pound of lean body mass.

Hummm, I have been sitting here reading the other blog entries and thinking about ‘why I must’. I ‘must’ because my daughter needs to learn that being careful about what goes in your body and how wonderful it is to move a fit body and make it strong, are very good things.My son needs to see what it takes to be strong and fit and enjoy the process.My husband just lost 15 lbs and looks great and needs to make it a permanent change.I need to find the real me in here…..the 143lb, very fit, very strong me. So much to do in this life, I want to be strong and fit and look great. By doing this I can encourage them to find more pleasure in bodies, and that will serve them. I just recently figured out that pleasure is not a dirty word… Life has so many more possibilities.Tom, thanks for all the positive energy you add to the world.

Why must I?If not now, when? I will do it now because I have plenty of fat to lose. When I am done, I will be able to wear the cute size 6 clothes in my closet and chase my kids around outside after the hot summer is over.I do not want my children to lose their Momma when they are in their 20s or 30s. I want to live life more fully and losing this fat is the best place to start.I must because I am 40 and do not want to spend another decade schlepping around an extra 25 pounds of fat on my body.I must because I must. Thanks, Tom. You’re terrific.

For over 20 years now I have continually said that I should get fit, I should lose 30 pounds, I should be more active but here I am still thinking and saying those same things. With this challenge I have decided that I must get fit and I must lose 30 pounds before the end of summer if for no other reason than I am turning 40. I really want to go through my next 40 fit and firm. I want to not worry if I have to put a bathing suit on or if I have any clothes that still fit me. I have added this challenge to my “bucket list” (things to do to make my life complete before I die). I have no excuses now. I must complete this challenge to be able to say I did it and I did it before I turned 40. Thanks for the motivation to change my life

SIMPLY A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATHSadly, for many of those attempting to lose weight, each new diet program turns out to be the same ride on the same merry-go-round, just a different horse on the same carousel…I know, for I have been atop the lead pony on that ride for most of my adult life. And just like any carousel, after going in circles, I return back to where I started – the same weight (if not more)!This time it IS different. I was recently diagnosed with a brain aneurysm – the probable cause being high blood pressure due to being overweight and out of shape.All the medical professionals agree on one thing: If I want to increase my chances for staying upon the planet, I must lose weight/body fat and become more fit.That is why this 98-day challenge is a MUST – my life literally depends on it.

When I read The Body Fat Solution I made a list of reasons why I felt I needed to regain control of my body. In the end it is because all my young adult life I have been limited by injuries that were caused by my weight or my lack of strength. I feel that in order to achieve my life goals I must be fit and healthy. Health should not be an obstacle, because it is within my control. In the past three months I’ve learned something else, that I need to accept this challenge and succeed because I want to help others accept it as well. I want to show others that fitness is within their grasp.

I’m 39 and have hypertension, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes. I’m on too many meds! I’m a nursing student and I must practice what I plan to preach to my future patients! I must live a healthier life and get off these meds! Tired of swallowing so many pills every day. I’m not living my life to the fullest due to lack of energy and just being sick & tired. I must make the necessary changes to full LIVE this wonderful LIFE I’ve been blessed with!

I did not choose this summer to lose the most weight. I did not choose this summer to “try” and do better. I chose this summer because a few weeks ago I purchased Tom’s ebook and realized I deserve better. I deserve to go after the one dream I have had ever since I started my weight loss journey.I want to enter or at least look I could enter a figure competition.Now, I have been 200 + pounds twice now. Once on my own, and once when I was pregnant with my 1st. Luckily with my 2nd I only gained 25 lbs. However, that means I know how to lose weight. I have done it 3 times now. What I did not know how to do was lose fat, gain muscle, eat 5 times a day, exercise for fitness, not as a means to an end to eat what I want, calculate my nutrient needs, set goals and affirmations, and most of all I didn’t know how to dream big.I used to dream. I used to do daily affirmations, gratitude journals, dream boards. But that was before kids. Somewhere in the last 5 years I forgot about me and started worrying about my kids.Now, I know how important it is to give yourself that hour a day to exercise. I know it because I am a personal trainer, group exercise instructor and mom. But what I forgot was that it is ok to want more than just an ok body. A body that shows that I work out, but that is it.I have dreamt about a figure competition body since I lost my 1st 50lbs. The reason I haven’t accomplished it is, the all to familiar “content body syndrome.” I figured “if this is the worst I ever look, I am okay with that.”My husband likes my curves, I am not fat, I get complimented all the time, so I convinced myself that I was okay. Guess what? In my head I never stop setting goals for myself. I never stopped wanting to be leaner, fitter, or more toned.I started doing what most people do even though they know better, they go for the quick fix. I did HCg, South Beach, Insanity, you name it I did it. Then one night while searching for my next diet I found Tom. I am so grateful as I almost bought another ebook instead.His common sense approach was refreshing and reminded me of what I already knew. There are NO quick fixes. You just have to do the work and eat the right way, at the right times, and in the right amount. All while exercising. How simple or “boring” as Tom’s critics put it.I love it, and I am about to test it.Starting May 24th all while I go on vacation mind you, I am going to do what Tom says. I figured out my numbers, I got my body fat calipers, I hired a personal trainer for the next 5 weeks to help push me where I have trouble pushing myself (the lifting weights area) and I am going to do it.Not because of the trip (although that is a wonderful incentive) but because I can’t expect anyone else to get me where I want to be, and accomplish all the goals I have for myself now but me.I am posting my journey on my blog and hope I get some support from family and friends who read it, but most of all I hope to inspire those who read it.Thanks Tom, for being “boring” It is just what I needed.

This is it. I have been passive reading everyone elses success stories and motivation goals. Now it’s my turn. At the end of the contest I will have the shape I had before having my 5 kids.

To transform my body, which first starts in my mind, is more than a “must” – for me it’s CRUCIAL!Stress has created havoc in my life and it’s timely departure is imminent or….unthinkable.- So to deal with stress exercise is a vital part of the plan; MY PLAN!!!For me commitment is my biggest issue. To achieve the ELITE level of both fitness and body composition that I expect, commitment will be the critical element.

I live on the Big Island of Hawaii where swim suits and shorts are the standard dress code – all year long!!! Although I’m an active 54 year old mother of two and grandmother of two I want to have AND maintain that tight/toned body that everyone envisions. I have been watching those pounds creep up as the years go by and am determined to make a permanent change in my lifestyle. I WILL have that body I have always dreamed about and your Burn The Fat challenge will be the key to that transformation!!!

I have had the privilage of taking care of several chronically ill family members… actually about 14 years now, that’s what I have done. The daughter went through massive amounts of surgeries thanks to a drunk driver, dad had alzheimer’s, mom is diabetic with all of the stuff that goes along with it like her eyes and kidney…. A dear friend has just had cancer removed and living at the house for now (but doing very well). Well… to make a long story shorter…everyone is at a well point (as well as it gets for a while anyway, right…lol) and I have recently decided that NOW is the time for me! There are several reasons…like if I don’t take care of me, who takes care of them then… but the truth… I want to look hot when I play outside with my grandson! :-)

All my life I have been on diets but did not maintain the results . Therefore transforming my body this summer is a must because I believe and want to prove to myself that it is possible with Tom’s Method and couching to loose fat, weight, improve health, body shape, and maintain all of them in an optimized level aiming at a healthier quality of life for the years ahead. I am ready to change habits. It is a big challenge to reduce 39% of body fat and maintain it on a healthy level! I will try hard to succeed.

Your books are amazing. I have read “the body fat solution” and “Burn the fat feed the muscle” and most of the reports on nutrition and fat loss. The only thing I miss for now is a membership in the Inner Circle and I hope that with this comment everything could happen.

THIS SUMMER I WANT TO TELL MYSELF AND THE WHOLE WORLD THAT NO MATTER WHATEVER WORK WE DO , NO MATTER HOW MUCH BUSY WE ARE , NO MATTER HOW MUCH STRESSFULL LIFE WE LIVE IN !NOW THE TIME HAS COME TO STOP LIVING THE LIFE BY LOOKING AT THE WATCH INSTEAD START ENJOYING SINGLE MOVEMENT OF YOUR LIFE BY TRANSFORMING NOT EVEN YOUR BODY SHAPE BUT PROVIDING OXYGEN TO EVERY CELL AND TISSUE OF YOUR BODY AND THIS WILL TRANSFORM YOUR THINKING HOW YOU LOOK AT THE WORLD AROUND YOU ? BELEIVE ME.TOM HELP EVERYBODY ! THANKS.

Transforming my body this summer is important to me because I don’t feel whole when I neglect my body. I must focus on my physical strength and fitness because my state of fitness affects all other aspects of my life. I must transform my body this summer in order that I am in the best shape that I can possibly be in at forty two years old. 100 days from now I am going to be ripped, shredded, cut and strong. I am going to take my final pictures and measurements and yell with pride, “I did it man, I did it! Yaaaaaa”

I must change because this is something I promised myself for years, and I’m tired of breaking my promises to myself. I must change to enjoy my life more and bring out the true me and do the things I want to and love doing. I must do this because life is mine to live…

In the past 6 months I’ve been working on learning healthy habits that will help me lead a long and healthy life. In my head I know that these habits will help me break my cycle of unhealthy eating and dieting and lackluster exercise. I want to be in better shape by the end of the summer to show myself that I can achieve my goals and be in the best shape of my life. Transforming my body needs to happen now because I’m ready for the change and don’t want any obstacle to be more important than me living my healthiest life ever.

I had dieted and lost weight before, and have been fairly active most of my adult life, but never knew that building muscle was the way to KEEP IT OFF until I encountered the Burn the Fat data. I have been inspired to start on a fitness certification program to learn more. I hope to be able to work with folks that are NOT SO MOBILE to ease them into a more active way of life. As a (hopeful) teacher – I need to better model what can be accomplished, and prove it to myself!

Why MUST I do this?If I have a choice between junk food (mainly sweets) and food, I choose junk! I have done this since I can remember. If I carry on this way, I will become diabetic – my main fear. I HAVE to change NOW, before it is to late.Why is it important to me?1) To prove to myself that I CAN do it!2) To FEEL GOOD about my body!3) To prove to others that getting fat is NOT something one must get used to as you get older because it “happens to everyone”!!! (I am 43).4) A big one for me – to be cellulite free for the first time since…. uhh… I forget.5) To find a healthy eating/exercise lifestyle that I can LIVE WITH for the rest of my life.I am going to enter the challenge and I WILL succeed!

YESTERDAY I CRIED BECAUSE I LOOKED RIDICULOUS IN MY SWIMSUIT AND I HAD PROMISED TO TAKE MY SONS TO THE WATERPARK. ITS NOT THE FIRST TIME AND UNLESS I CHANGE SOMETHING IT WONT BE THE LAST. MY BOYS ARE A PICTURE OF HEALTH AND ARE VERY PROUD OF THEIR MUSCLES AND LIKE TO PLAY SPORTS. THIS SUMMER THEY WILL MEET SOME OF MY FAMILY FOR THE FIRST TIME AND I KNOW THE HOLIDAY WILL BE AN ADVENTURE PACKED ONE. I AM TERRIFIED AS I KNOW THAT I HAVE NO ENERGY AND NO STRENGTH. I AM OBESE (164CM/227LBS) AND I KNOW THAT I MUST TAKE CHARGE OF MY LIFE NOW. I DON’T CARE TO BE SKINNY, BUT I NEED TO BE STRONG. I NEED SOME GUIDANCE AS HOW TO GET STRONG AS ALL I KNOW IS HOW TO LOSE WEIGHT THROUGH DIET AND CARDIO. HOW DO I GET STRONG? I MUST FIND SOME HELP TO FIGURE OUT WHAT TO DO. I MUST MAKE MY BOYS PROUD OF THEIR MUM BEFORE I MAKE THEM GRIEVE FOR HER.

I am ready to tweak my body to its top potential because I am the closest I’ve ever been. It seems surprising, as I’ve always been fit, because I’ve been the busiest of my life – with two children (1 and 3 years old), career, etc… but I think because of my desire to make it happen I WILL. I’m goal oriented and I am looking forward to this!

This competition coincides with a stressful change in jobs and countries – i am doing a full circle and finally heading back to my hometown. Somewhere near the end of the challenge i will be on the plane heading home.What better way to start a new life than with a new body! Healthier, fitter and more energy – all MUSTS before i get off the plane. By shredding this excess BF i will have the energy which will be needed for the move, for my new career and most importantly for my family.

I am 38 and have been yo-yo diteting since I can remember, I bought bffm back in 2008 and lost 20lbs and was in pretty good shape, then some things happened in my personnal life, nothing dramatic now i look back and think about it but I just fell off the wagon. Early last year I tried again and was going great guns until I discovered I had a DVT in my left leg and was told by my doctor to cut down on my excercise, well I took his words too literally and stopped training and being off work for 3 months was pretty boring so started eating junk and picking food constantly. I having been telling myself for the last 6 months how sick I am of being out of shape and overweight but I have never bothered to do anything about it so when I got Tom’s email telling me about the Summer Challenge it was just the thing I needed to get my ass in to gear. I joined the Inner Circle because I dont want to fail this time and with all the support and information available on the site I know I can do it this time and not just for a short time but forever, its about changing my lifestyle and mindset and I really cant wait for the challenge to start.Thanks Tom

As a mum of 3 who learnt to drive last year i have put on alot of wieght as im no longer rushing to the bus stop in order to get to school. Im not impressed with myself and always cover up and now im sick of being covered up and wanna be able to wear my pre driving clothes without feeling the squezze,

A body Transformation is important to me because I am in college and next school year is “do or die” for my career plans. I want to be a US Air Force Officer so, I’m enrolled in the ROTC program and my physical fitness performance next semester will either wash me out or allow me to continue in the program. I must have a low (15-20%) body fat and I must score well (80+ out of 100) on the fitness test. If I get RIPPED in the process, that’s just a fringe benefit! I must …

I will be moving back to the U.S. from Russia just as this contest begins. This summer represents a major life transformation for me – physically, mentally, spiritually, and professionally. I MUST transform my body and mind this summer because I know that it is a major part of this total life transformation “bridge” that I need to cross.This summer I will be homeless and jobless because my government job is a term-limited position that ends on June 5. I will not necessarily be looking for a job in the same line of work or in Washington, DC (where I lived for 13 yrs before Russia). Basically, my life is a blank palette at this point and i get to design the life I want to lead and it MUST be a healthy one.I had my Turkish coffee grounds “read” a few weeks ago (like a fortune teller) when I was in Istanbul and the lady said that there would be a man “involved” in my life that would help me and support me as I go through all of the changes ahead. She said this man has a “T” in his name. No Mr. T came to mind until now. Tom Venutto perhaps? That’s 3 Ts!This contest will coincide with my re-entry into the good ol’ USA and all of the social and family life that I have so dearly missed. I will be looking for a job, but i have given myself permission to “take the summer off” for travel and he pursuit of happiness. And to me, that means having the body and lifestyle that I have always wanted. I’ve been ripped (before 2 back surgeries took their toll on me), but I will be taking it to a new level this time. I have always wanted to live in a very outdoorsy community like Denver or Oregon. This is my chance seize the opportunity to really change my life – all aspects of it!I MUST use the next 14 weeks to create a better body and a mindset that will help me achieve anything I put my mind to.

I want to lose weight because my mood and energy lift even when I lose a few pounds. I tend to lose some and then go right back up again. My family has a lot of Type 2 Diabetes and I would prefer to avoid it. 20 lbs gone and I will be happy.

I have always lived with the fear of inheriting the overworked, overweight and chronically ill body that my mother suffered under for as long as I can remember. She was a single parent of five and devoted all her time and energy to make sure we had a better life but never took the time to take care of herself and her health.Having this numbing fear of reliving my mothers life, it is ironic that everything I have vowed not to do has led my to the same path I have tried all my life not to follow. I have tried all kind of diets out of desperation and being recently diagnosed with hypertension at the age of 32 made me realize that I MUST transform my life and I KNOW you can show me how.

This summer I want to get below 10% body fat.With the help of your ebook I have started the transformation from a 25%+ body fat constantly tired office slab to the currently 15% body fat, emotionally balanced and energetic new me. Eating healthy and working out is great for the mind too…

The reasons why I want to be in better shape are nothing new, role model for my kids, better, healthier life, fitness, look good ina bikini (or even own one). These are all common reasons that most of us here would share. However I have not really BELIEVED I have had the power to REALLY make any of that happen. I must do this now because I have been trying for my whole life to actually achieve something I have set out to do. But that little voice inside my head always tells me I cant do it, why bother, etc. Well I dont want that voice to be right any longer. I am sick of making promises to myself then not achieveing them. I want the power, the self-confidence and the self-belief that I can do anything i want to. I am spcial, I am extraordinary and I want to believe that NOW

I am so tired of waiting for my body to magically transform back to the healthy, slim, fit, energetic body I used to have. I am committing to this challenge to save myself. This will be a lifestyle reversal for me. Can’t wait for tomorrow, already pumped up, ready to rip!!

I really must do it because it is high time. I’ve wasted more than enough time considering it.I have been on the right track before and I know how good it feels to be living the right way. I slipped and fell deeper and deeper. However, fat gain doesn’t have a rock bottom, or at least the rock bottom is 6 feet under and I cannot wait to hit that…What better time than NOW?

I MUST lose weight for me because I MUST keep a promise to my daughter. Due to the distance we live apart, I only see her once a year. During her visit last year, I promised I would lose some weight before her next visit because she is beginning to worry about my health. I’ve been putting off my promise and I feel bad about that. This contest is a perfect opportunity as her next visit is just 9 weeks away. I MUST prove to myself I can do this.

THERE ARE NO EXCUSES !!!!!!!!!!!!!Applied Knowledge is now my POWER.A lifetime of eating for pleasure has resulted in an out of balance body, much like my previous diet.In a conscious effort to get fit as a new year resolution I went looking for the answers and help on the wonderful world wide web. Now my subconscience is no longer my enemy but my friend. With the right tools in place I am succeeding. This challenge is one of those very important tools. MOTIVATION.PS. 20Kg lost, 17Kg to reach end of year goal.

Hey guys i’m from the sunny germany:pMy dream is to get ripped for the summer.To pull off the t-shirt at the sea. And now i don’t have to be afraid that there is some belly fat on my rips that everyone is looking for. IN wanna have am sixpack.So lets get started and train hard!See you!

Of cause I want to be fit & healthy.Of cause I want to have six pack abs.But since I read your book “The Body Fat Solution” I had to be honest to myself in many ways.I was limited in thinking, limited in beeing ABLE to change.I had been a great saboteur to myself, my job & my private life.But there are no excuses!I have to WORK HARD & DO WHATEVER IT TAKES TO BECOME STRONG, HEALTHY & CAPABLE TO BE THE BEST I CAN BE.LIFE IS TOO SHORT.We all have a limited time around here and I don´t want to waste a single second of mine.Greetings from Colognep.s. Thanks for your book Tom – GREAT WORK!

Tom, Your material has always had an effect on me. I recently did a 12 weeks transformation using the principals from your Body Solution book. I lost 15 pounds during the process going from 212 to 197. My body fat decreased about 4%. I feel much better and have received a few compliments. Nothing better than compliments. I really would like to enter your challenge with a few goals in mind.1. I would like to see my abs for the first time in my life.2. I’m competitive. One of my close friends has lost 50lbs and weighs the same as me now. He looks great and I’m proud of him but I want to take my fitness and body a step farther and see if he has the mettle to compete with me.3. I believe in the system now. I had trouble with the mental aspect of your book. Goal setting was not something I wanted to try. During the period of my 15lb loss I realized what worked. Not sets and reps, although thats important too, but the mindset of fatloss. Every thing I did all day was in an effort to move closer to my goal.I’m within striking distance but I need a push. A challenge.

Transforming my body this summer is extremely important to me because I am planning to do my first figure competition on October 9th of this year. I will be turning 41 in June and I have been planning on competitin for the past 10 years but didn’t have the knowlege I do now after reading your book on how to be able to lean down to that single digit in order to be able to compete. Looking forward to the challenge this summer as this will keep me motivated to do my very best.

Hello Tom,Couldn’t resist leaving my own reasons to change my body in the next few weeks.1) I got married three years ago to a lovely and charming French man (crazy about him). I’ve put more than 10 kg since I moved to France and I hate the way my loved one looks – very discretly – to the beauties in Paris. There is a war going on here! I wanna my fit body back!2) I work in an engineering (I mean men) environment and I miss the times when my coulegues would smile with their eyes when looked at me – should I say, with no shame, at my body? The other day I met a felow I hadn’t seem for more than 4 years (winter time – he couldn’t see below my coat) and he said with no shy ‘ Hey, great to see you! Do u still have that gorgeus body? You were the dream girl in the office!’ I was surprised to hear this! Then I remembered that time I used to go religiously to gym and even play soccer twice/three times a week!3) I travel a lot for work and I have a great wardrobe with beautiful clothes (I enjoy looking good in meetings) – nothing fits me anymore. In France, it’s very hard to find nice clothes for my new size – I’m tall and overweight – that get really into my nerves4) I used to deny all the above reasons for thinking they were too superficial, but they are not. They make me feel sad and, despite health is the word that should come first in the list, vanity – with the correct balance – is a great motivation – and does lead to a healthy body.5) I ruined my knees playing soccer and had to operate it 5 years ago. It was a very successful operation but my doctor warned me I must look after my weight. And I can tell, It’s been really painfull walking with those extra kilos – specially in hight hills!I could list a few more reasons here and explain where they can interfere in my mood, personal and professional life, but these are more than enough to get me back on the tracks and a great body shape!Good bye croissants, crème brulées and foi gras! The Lion is back!

I need to finally break free of that last 20 pounds. This is the year I’m going to do it.

I’ve been working out off and on for the better part of 20+ years. Have I lost weight? absolutely anyone can do that! Have I been able to keep it off? now that’s the hard part. I can pump weights with the best of them, do cardio for hours on end, eat low calories, no carbs, none fat diets better than anyone and drop the pounds but still in the end gain it back. I slowly began to realized what I needed to find that balance between eating without being hungry and exercise and still loose weight. Last year I was down to 13% bodyfat and as I write this I’m at 20%. As I began to evaluate what went wrong I slowly began to realize the problem was my calories were just too low. I went from about 20% to 13% in a matter of months but I believe it was too quick and my calories were too low. I couldn’t sustain it because I was not eating a healthy that included all the food groups. Once I did the weight slowly came back on even though my exercise had increased in intensity! I knew the problem was not exercise because I love working out I knew it was nutrition. I understood that nutrition was at least 80% of the equation. I started studying nutrition ordering information about it where ever I could find it. I’ve read alot of them and in weeding through all the information I saw an underlying them which was eating to feed the muscle and at the same time eating just enough to drop fat. There’s that balance thing I’ve been looking for. The problem was no one was addressing it in it’s entirety. Sure they hinted at it, mentioned it in passing but no one stressed it, dug deeply into they just said do it. I find info on eating the right kinds of carbs in one document, then watching how much carbs you ate in another, eating the goods fats in this online doc but watching your fat in that online doc. I found myself piece mealing the information. I think I was starting to get it but still all the info was so scattered :( Then I found BFFM and thought this is problem what I’m looking for. As I began to read I realized it was exactly what I was looking for. Someone to tell how to eat and then how to dial it in based on results. I wanted to be able to get to a healthy comfortable bodyfat percentage while getting good solid nutrition. I realized this was the ticket and now I’m ready to see it in action.My goal is to let my body do what it’s going to do naturally with good nutrition and hard work. I’m not sure what that bodyfat percentage will be but I’ll know it when I get there, in the meanwhile I want to just enjoy ride!

I want to be in better shape by the end of the summer because I want to follow my dream and reach my goals but I always hide behind my body as a reason I can’t.I MUST transform my body in the next 98 days because I have set my goals and I must reach them. I want to inspire and teach and motivate other 40-year-old overweight women and show them dreams at 40 and beyond ARE obtainable without TV trainers, personal chefs and plastic surgeons. The only thing between me and the body I want is me and I need to get me out of the way, to overcome my fear of success and step up. I KNOW I can, I just need a little push here and there.

What are the REASONS WHY I want to be in better shape at the end of the summer than I am today? Why is transforming my body NOW – in the next 98 days- an absolute MUST for me?There are few things in life we have complete control of, work, friends, family, the weather are all governed by factors outside of what we can do. Yet the one thing we do have complete control of, our bodies & minds, we very rarely take to the possibilities they are capable of. I think over the course of my life I have gotten better at realizing this and am making efforts to do more about it.I have been working out for over 20 years, something my husband helped me start and he has always encouraged me. This year, at the age of 49, I am making an effort to get to a point with my work outs, diet and efforts to be the absolute best I have ever been. Transforming myself now is an abosolute must for me because I am so close, closer than ever before that I cannot stop and say its good enough. I need to be able to look in the mirror at my body and to my mind and say you finally did it. You’ve done the best you can at something you set out to do, no excuses, no close enough, no something got in the way. You’ve done it and you can show it off.

I have been trying kick my addiction to sugar for a few years now. I’m concerned about developing diabetes, and I’m concerned about the example I’m setting for my kids. I have to get in excellent shape now, for the duration of the contest, so that I can kick my addiction to sugar and move on to a better state of mind. I want to move from physically resisting the temptation to eat the sugar and sweets I crave, to being indifferent to them.

In 98 days I will have a transformed body, something I have never had before – fit, healthy and full of energy. In 98 days I will have moved to a new country to start a new life and will need all the energy and enthusiasm for living each day that I can muster. They say that moving is one of the most stressful things you can do and under stress, I eat. I want to counter the stress and apprehension of finding a job, making new friends and learning a new culture by having the stability of a healthy body, and giving it the right fuel it needs to perform at its peak. The reality is that my circumstances are going to change and with this I want to welcome a change for my body that has for too long been neglected. My father died too young from complications of an overweight and unhealthy lifestyle; not for me, I will live differently.

Transforming my body this summer is a must because while my mind has been asking for it, my body has begun demanding it. My knees ache, my back aches, I sleep with a CPAP machine, I get winded walking briskly and struggle upstairs and I’m not an old woman, I’m 31! My body has taken the punishment of weight gain as best as it could for 8 years and my doctors are amazed that I am not diabetic or pre-diabetic, that I don’t have high cholesterol or high blood pressure but all of those things run in my family and we all know that I am on borrowed time in the fight to stay free of these ailments. I should have done this 8 years ago, 6 years ago, hell, even last year but I MUST do it this summer. I MUST do it this summer because I want to have children and have to lose the weight to prevent fibroid tumor regrowth and be pregnancy-ready by the end of the year. I MUST do it this summer because I want to be healthy by choice and stop depending on chance. I MUST do it this summer because not doing it means that all of my worst fears and health concerns come true.

Everyone in my husband’s family, except my husband, is morbidly obese and we are very close to them. We have always wanted to teach our children the importance of a healthy lifestyle to help save them from the pain that can come with serious obesity that we know their grandparents and aunts and uncles deal with. But as I get older and my body is changing for the worse, and my children see the poor choices and bad habits of their extended family, I realize the only lesson that will ever make a valuable impression is to teach by example. So it has to be a good one and it has to start now!

I have tried everything out there,pills products low carbs…The fat always returns and then some I am ready to try work and sweat! At 32 I would like to be hot for once in my life I have been huge my hole life, it stops today!!!

I’m entering this Challenge to not only stay in shape but to get in the best shape ever because this will be a very stressful summer. Over the course of 98 days, I will change my body for the better – even as I graduate, say goodbye to all my friends, move to a new city, join the military, start medical school, and adjust to a long distance relationship. In the past, stress has caused me to stop exercising, eat junk food, and generally shut down and stop doing what’s good for me. This summer will be DIFFERENT. I will achieve my goals this summer!

The main reason I’m taking this challenge is to be a better version of me. I always put everyone and everything before me. I’m always last in line if there’s any extra time in the day. That has to stop because I know I will be a better mom, wife, friend and coworker if I get my body where I want it to be. This is going to be the last summer ever that I won’t be able to find an atttractive swimsuit to wear in public. I’m over 40 and I want my daughter to be proud of how I look and set an example for her to use as she grows up and struggles with food temptations. I’m ready to hop off the sugar train and get it right. Next stop: Hot Body. To push myself a bit more, a figure competition in the next year might do the trick!

i have tried various different “diet plans” no of which worked , i came across your site and have been reading everything , it certainly makes sense , before i started last week i had to give up the worse habit “SMOKING ” it has been 4 weeks now ,, and i feel i am now up to the challenge of working out and eating sensible to loose the weight ,,

The timing of the challenge is perfect for me. I need the accountablity. In September I fly back to Wisconsin to see family and friends. Some I have not seen in 6 years. It’s very important to me for them to see that I’m happy and on the road to leading a healthy life. I don’t want them to worry about me. I want to inspire them. I have been doing alot of soul searching. God willing, I have I have another 40+ years to live. I am going to be the best person I can be. I have been overweight for most of the first 47 years of my life. To be my best, to be able to give and share with others, I need to take charge of my life first. Getting healthy is the 1st step in my journey. I’m changing my life for me first, for those I love, for those I have not yet met. I’m changing my life to be the best person I can be for the next 40+ years of my life!

I am sick and tired of avoiding people and events due to embarrassment and shame over how I look. I avoid pictures and looking in mirrors, and life is too short to hide from my own life. Although I swore I’d never let this happen again after throwing out all my fat clothes, my skinny clothes don’t fit and I’m wasting more money on clothes that don’t fit well and don’t do justice to my spirit. I’m ready to stop being a slave to food and eager to set goals and achieve them. Working with the amazing support system of Burn the Fat Inner Circle means that I’ll have tons of resources and encouragement to get me farther than I can on my own.

My reasons why I am going to loose the weight and become the healthiest I ever have been is, I am almost done with nursing school and it’s pretty hard to teach others to eat correctly and exercise when I’m obviously not doing the same. I’m just sick of being out of shape. I also want to look good again.My MUST reasons are; I sprained my back and have been in pain for years,which makes it hard to do my job and everything else in life. I also have PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)and the weight loss will improve all my symptoms, including the horrible hormonal unbalances.I AM DOING IT FOR ME!

Well, the time has come, and the time is now. My 10 plus year goal of entering a figure competition is becoming a reality. I have made a commitment to do it this year. I reached my goal of an 80 pound weight loss over a year ago, and I have been holding onto the last 20 for over a year now. It is time to let go, take that final step, and reach my loftiest goal once and for all. The timing of this contest could not be more prefect. Let’s just see where it takes us!

My current body fat percentage is about 17%. At the start of the year , i set a goal for myself to bring it down to less than 10%. I have started in earnest with my workouts and proper diet. I have become a bit of a role model to my colleagues to maintain their fitness.My hectic office schedule poses a severe challenge to my motivation.I must achieve that goal of achieving less than 10% body fat becauseI hate letting myself downI want to be a role model for my friends , collegaues and family to adapt a healthier lifestyle and make them believe , no matter how hectic your life , supreme fitness is a question of how much you desire it. Plus I could always do with looking good naked :)

Greetings all. I am excited to begin this 14 week challenge, as it represents an opportunity not only to transform my body, but my life as a whole.There are several reasons why I must complete this challenge. I am married with one son, an owner in an engineering firm, and about to turn 39. I have had a life long history of procrastination and am also a workaholic. These two character flaws along with lack of exercise and poor diet have been very self destructive and resulted in me being on high blood pressure medication and experience some loss of kidney function.A little over a year ago, some of my colleagues and I started a 3 month fat boy challenge. I lost 23 lbs and 5% body fat over those 3 months but gained it all back over the next 9. We had another challenge this spring. I lost around 15 lbs and 3% body fat, but wasn’t able to exercise the last 5 weeks due to the flu. The most frustrating thing was realizing how much work it was going to be to lose that fat again.The reasons why I must complete this challenge are: 1. To improve my overall health so that I am here for my family and business. 2. To inspire my wife as she also struggles with weight, my son, and my employees, 3. To prove to myself and others that I can finish what I started, 4. To boost my self confidence and self image, and lastly 4. In the works of Lester Burnham from the movie American Beauty… “I want to look good naked!”

I want to be in better shape by the end of the summer because I have been “working out” and “dieting” for the last 3 years (if that’s even what you can call it). I’m tired of putting SO MUCH time and effort into weight loss and not seeing the results. I don’t want to be a skinny “fat” person…I want to see lean muscle!! This is an absolute MUST for me to accomplish this summer because I feel like the time is now or never. I am ready to put my time and energy into doing it right and transforming my body by using a program that is not a gimic, just plain old fashioned hard work. I have the tools I need for success…now it’s time to put them to work!!!

My reasons for better shape:Better shape => better health => better quality of life for myself and for the dear people around meI must transform myself just for the heck of proofing to myself that I can do it!

i am 50 in september , and i am nearly at the weight i was when i was 24 ,and its all thanks to tom venuto !!!!!!!!!!!

I am participating in the challenge because I am scared. Scared to death. I have been cheating myself for years. Taking care of everyone else except me. Always using that as the excuse to not start again. I know what to do, but I don’t do it. It’s time to stop being scared and start becoming the person I used to recognize in the mirror.

For me is a must, because I was recently diagnosed with 384 cholesterol and the combination with other factors put me in a high risk of a heart atack. I´ll be 49 next week, I´ll do what ever it takes to be healthier and fitted before my 50th birthday…it’s a must. Then I’ll become a roll model for 2 of my 3 children who also have overweigth problems.

I MUST continue with my transformation. I have lost 50 lbs since September 2009 and am proud of it! But there is more to do. I like how I feel now and am excited for how I will feel later.The last 7 months+ have seen a relationship breakup, a diabetes scare and diagnosis of a hip problem that required surgery. The surgeon required that I lose weight… and I DID! At the same time, I blew away the diabetes scare and learned to value myself and my abilities without the approval of anyone else.While recovery has been slow with a few setbacks, I am determined to continue this journey. This contest is great motivation, along with controlling other health conditions that will be well-controlled with my newly transformed body and self.Thanks, Tom!

I must get into shape to:-Improve my mental health-Redefine the way I look at my self-Inspire others-Reflect my inner self-Strengthen my Confidence-Bust my energy-Earn Security-Add some beauty to first impressions-Change my love life-Prevent cancer-BE HEALTHIER AND HAPPIER!!

I have watched my family struggle with health and mental problems for years, all of which has been magnified by poor diet and lack of exercise. With having four precious munchkins and a great husband, I want to be proactive in caring for my family by making sure I am as healthy as I can be. For the last several years I have made excuses about the lack of exercise because I’m too busy homeschooling the kids, volunteering for my husband’s unit, and so on. While I have a desire to get ripped, what I really want is to trim down, tone up, and be as healthy as I can possibly be, so that I can keep up my energy and strength to care for my family for years to come.

I really want to participate in the summer challenge but am scheduled to have back surgery on June 3rd so there will be several days where I will be unavailable to post what I’ve eaten and how much (if any) I was able to exercise. I will however catch up with you guys and follow along as soon as I’m recovered and able. Heck, I don’t need a trip to Maui to be motivated to get into the best shape of my life!

I’m 43 with 3 girls ages 9, 7 and 5 and am at least 40 pounds overweight. Yesterday my oldest daughter was playing soccer and got very over heated and needed her drink (which had been left in the car). I had to run around 1/2 the soccer field to get to her. I knew I was out of shape and needed to lose the fat I had accumulated after having all 3 kids. Here my daughter needed me and I wasn’t even able to keep running all the way to get her what she needed. She had to wait on me, because I was not physically able to run that far and it made me feel terrible. I Must lose the fat and get into better shape for myself and my family. I want to be able to keep up with my kids and still be here when they have kids of their own so this needs to be a lifetime change not just for the summer.

Why now? Because I’ve lived this way long enough. For my adult life, I’ve never had a body that I was completely comfortable in. So now, this year, with some effort on my own, I’ve lost a good amount of weight and more importantly changed the way my body looks. I’m looking in the mirror and liking what I see. It’s a good start, but there’s more work to be done.

I have had a lot of success so far inky fitness journey. My longterm goal is to compete in a bodybuilding competition. However, my body fat is not low enough to attempt it yet. This 98 day Big Burn will be a great spring board to hold me accountable to my goal of single digit body fat. I have a lot of motivation on my own but with a trip to Maui on the line it gives me a little more incentive. I look forward to the next 14 weeks as I transform my body into the lean mean machine I’ve always dreamed of having.

I have two “shoulds” that I am making “musts”.I am a somewhat “older” father; I am 42 and have a beautiful 30 something wife and two wonderful children, a darling girl almost 4 and an 8 month old baby boy. They deserve a dad who can run and play with them and be the very best father. With knee problems beginning and concerns over my age, weight and health, I must improve my body composition to keep up, and not be a “sideline” dad and husband.My second “should” is a bit more selfish. I found myself for the first time last year, unable to “power through” all the hiking and stalking involved in Colorado elk hunting. My knees literally gave out after 4 days and I had difficulty getting home. I now “must” improve my body composition so that my love of the outdoors, traditional archery and elk hunting won’t become just something I reminisce about, rather, an experience I can share with my children in the years to come.I have done this course before, a couple of years ago, for 14 weeks and saw dramatic improvement, but my motivation faded and I have nearly lost all I had gained. I am excited to get back on board and truly change my life.Thanks Tom!!!John

I’m 49. I’ll be 50 in February.I wasn’t heavy as a kid. I was active and I grew up on a farm, where we ate in a way that was extremely healthy — we just didn’t know it. We grew our own vegetables and raised our own meat and that’s what we had. I didn’t have a vegetable out of a can until I was in my 20s.After years of half-hearted loss and gain sequences, I made a decision last Fall to get my act together. I’ve seen some success (down from a size 32 to almost a 24, as of now, even though I’m not losing a ton of weight, I know I’m building muscle) but I know I have a LONG way to go. Summer’s the best time; lots of good local fresh food to buy to eat better, but I want to have a real handle on my fitness and being in better shape before that next birthday rolls around. It’s hard enough now — the longer I wait, the harder it will get. Your program makes the most sense to me and I want to be fit!

I lost 54 pounds over three years ago (between March 2005 and March 2006) as I went through menopause (how’s that for a switch?) and have kept it off through changes in all aspects of my daily life the most important of which is my mindset. I have continued to challenge myself with new activities and am now planning on being certified to teach group exercise classes and pilates. Although I am in great shape I carry extra fat in the hip/thigh area and desire to effectively target eliminating these fat stores this summer. I feel it is time for me to follow a sound, solid, and sensible approach to success!

What are the REASONS WHY you want to be in better shape at the end of the summer than you are today?My Dad, when he was my age and I was half that, said “All I notice with aging is that more things hurt more”. I have systematically atrophied my cyclist’s legs and more modest other muscles by doing practically no exercise for about four decades.That was not all bad! Not being worn out from the gym has enabled me to work very hard on other things, “living on my savings” in terms of tissue. But it’s time to make some muscle to hold the bones together.Why is transforming your body NOW – in the next 98 days- an absolute MUST for you?If Tom were a guru rather than a coach, I would have to assume “He MUST read my mind!” How did you know that I have reached the un-postponable this-is-it point? I’m not fat, but I’m not as strong as I need to be, to pick things up without hurting myself, to feel good, and to live to age 120 until (as a funny friend likes to say) I am murdered by an envious rival!

I would like to get back to my pre baby weight and body. The past year of sleep deprivation and loss of motivation has kept me from working out. I don’t want to spend another day saying, “I will work out tomorrow”. I want to do it now!

Hello BFFM Family,I am 40 years old and about to retire from over 22 years of service in the Army. Instead of being in the best shape ever, I’m in the worst shape. A few REASONS WHY I need to be in shape by the end of this summer is 1st, for my overall health. I am experiencing health issues I never did before I put on all this weight and stopped working out like I used to. 2nd, I want to be an example for my Sons and Daughter. Your kids seem to love you no matter what, but I know they are not PROUD to see dad with a gut and out of shape…besides, it gives them the notion that they can “Take me on” haha, that will be the day.Transforming my body NOW is a MUST for me because I owe it to my wife and children to be the best I can be for them. Also, heart disease runs rampant in my family history, and i Must do everything to prevent what I can from developing these same problems. Also, since I’m retireing in the next 6 months, I will be searching for a new career. I know employers are not supposed to discriminate against overweight applicants…but face it…they do. I want to make a positive impression to up my chances for success. The lessons of BFFM are a fact and lifeline to get to these goals. Thank you BFFM.

I will be 51 next month and am in the worst shape of my life. I have fallen off the wagon in exercise and eating habits, and weigh the most I have since I was pregnant 20+ years ago. I have a ‘pooch’ belly and can feel fat rolls around my waist, which give me a lovely ‘muffin top’ when I wear my jeans. I am embarrassed to put on my bathing suit, something I was proud to do just 5 years ago when I was more disciplined. I am tired of thinking and talking about it, now is the time for ACTION! I need to take better care of my health so that I can be around for my (someday) grandchildren and have lots of fun with them.I MUST do this now and stop this downhill spiral. I WILL NOT let myself be sabotaged by myself or anyone around me (my very loving husband). I WILL set clear and measurable goals and track them weekly to achieve them in the next 98 days! Then I will continue to take care of myself and be healthier than my parents ever were at my age.

Today I have been unpacking boxes from our recent move. Inevitably I (not my husband) was faced with the task of unpacking the picture box; you know, the box that shows how the struggle to transform my body has resulted in failure every time.To be sure, most people would consider me to be thin, very in shape. It’s true, I have been dedicated to fitness and healthy eating for all of my adult life. The problem is, “healthy” eating has meant different things at different times: there was the high carb phase, the low carb phase, the no-eating at all phase – you get the picture.Here’s the thing, I have worked through many, many programs to achieve the physique of a strong, healthy woman and have been frustrated every time. Sure, I’m thin, but I want to be muscular (ripped!). Now is the time, and I am sure that BFFM is what I have been looking for.It is something I must do, so I can close the box on all of those pictures that show the woman I used to be.

I recently reached the end of 39 years of teaching college physical education – years of high activity and fitness. I had run a 3-hour Boston marathon, completed triathlons, got to the finals of racquetball tournaments, averaged above 190 in bowling, etc.But during a Maine-to-Florida bike ride, I was hit by a truck in North Carolina. My exercise and fitness plummeted after surgery. I started to teach Internet and lecture courses instead of my former activity classes. “Born to Run,” I no longer had the stamina to keep up with Bruce Springsteen during an E Street 3+ hour concert. After my “Wreck on the Highway,” I was riding a “Downbound Train.”A 24-mile commute that had averaged 25 minutes in the early 1970s was taking 45-50 minutes on good days. The student population had changed negatively. Then a 2004 “promotion” to assistant dean sat me in front of a computer for hours daily. By the time I retired, I was stressed out, almost clinically depressed, and in the worst condition of my life; at 5′ 8” I was 205.5 lbs. and 30.7% fat with a 41.5 inch waist.But my “Glory Days” can’t all be behind me. Years of life may be limited for me at 67, but I can add life to my years. Retirement here I come! The “Promised Land” is just 100 days away.

My b-day is on Tuesday. I am going to be 51 yrs old. I have been fat my entire adult life. The last time I wasn’t was when I was 15 yrs old. I don’t even care about winning this blog entry. I just want to shop in normal department stores, in the “Misses” section, not the “Women’s” of “Plus” sizes. I want to be looked at as a strong, healthy athlete.I’m running out of time for chances to meet my goal.

This is the last summer before I turn 50. You always think in your head “when I get older”, well…it’s here. I have gone through menopause and the threats of lowered metabolism, loss of muscle mass and weakening of bones have reared their ugly heads! Now is my time to take action and make a move.I also have found that “as goes Mom, so goes the family”. If my habits change, then the habits of my family will change. Wouldn’t it be a blessing to establish these “fit” habits in my daughter during her teen years!!??I am crazy to think this will be easy or that there won’t be times when I want to fall back into my old habits, but if it was easy then everyone would be doing it…….I need to face the challenge. I need to overcome my procrastination. I need to burn the fat!Here’s to the rest of you on this journey…..Good luck and God bless!

There are several different heart problems among the members of my family. I myself was having trouble with what the first cardiologist said was my heart skipping beats. I decided to do something about my excess weight at that time before the problem became worse. So I joined Jenny Craig. It fit with my schedule, my commute to and from work is 2 hours plus I put in anywhere from 8 to 10 hours on the job. I went from 215 lbs down to 148 lbs in a year and a half, since then I have just been going back and forth between 155 and 152. I stand 5′ 3 1/2″, I’m 62 years old, and since starting on my weight loss journey I have had to have a pacemaker implant because of an Atrial Valve blockage causing my heart to only beat about 42 beats per minute. I have continued using the Jenny Craig plan but have not been able to have anymore success at getting to the goal of 140 lbs plus the fact that I am still carrying excess fat on my abdomen, thighs and buttocks. The challenge for me will be to get the exercise that I know I need to be able to get rid of this additional fat. It’s time to move on from the Jenny Craig plan.

Tom,The list of reasons why I want to transform my body is extensive. Now that I have all the children I want I can focus on a goal I have had for the last 12 years. My dream of competing in a figure competition has seemed out of my reach year after year. Each year for the last 12 years I have mentioned competing to friends or family members but something always came in the way (mostly excuses and lack of knowledge). After reading your book “Burn The Fat Feed The Muscle” I feel that I have been handed the fail safe recipe for absolute success! Nothing can come in the way of my goal except for me.This total body transformation must happen for me within the next 98 days because I have declared that it will happen to my family and the universe! Every tool I need to make this goal attainable is in my possession now thanks to the help of your outstanding support and knowledge. My success will pave a road of health and fitness for my children and serve as a testimony to dreaming BIG! I will inspire countless others to achieve thier dreams by attaining my own. Thank you for the opportunity!Seraina A

Six years ago is when I first heard of BFFM. It was in January and I was going to be married in June. I went from 230 lbs. to 180 lbs. on my wedding day.I felt wonderful and felt as if I could go forever at whatever I was doing.Then I became lazy, quit working out, quit the cardio, quit eating right thinking “No big deal, if I gain a little then I’ll just work it off again”. Well that didn’t work. I got up to 193 and no changes, 206 and no changes, 224 nothing. Now I’m up to 254 lbs. and I feel utterly horrible. I’m frustrated at myself and have a pretty bad attitude at most things much of the time. I must make changes and get back to that great feeling that I had when I was in shape. It’s not only hurting me but also the people around me can tell also. It’s time to stop making excuses and get off my lazy rear end and get myself in gear! I’m turning 40 in 7 months and would love to fell like my old self again and enjoy everything that life has to offer again. I want to take my shirt off without feeling embarrased, I don’t want to have to pay for 2 seats on an airplane (I don’t have to yet but if I keep this up it won’t be much longer), I don’t want to be out of breath by just taking one flight of stairs, I’m tired of my doctor getting mad at me for not losing any weight. I’m so frustrated at myself for letting this happen when I was there at one time. I MUST get back to that point. I NEED to get back to that point and I can and will do it again!!

I need to get in the best physical shape possible so that I can live comfortably in this body for (hopefully) a very long time. I refuse to let my newly diagnosed rheumatoid arthritis slow me down. I will not be an easy target for diabetes or high blood pressure. I want to be healthy for me, and encourage my family and everyone else that I come in contact with to follow suite. Two years ago my goal was to do 10 “man style push ups”, and not be embarrassed to go sleeveless. Now after a slight relapse, I’m finally ready to take it to the next level.

I must complete this challenge because:1) I’ve been suffering from back pain, which I attribute to recent fat gain.2) In August I am leaving the US to study for 4 months in Madrid, Spain. I refuse to represent my nation as the “fat, lazy” stereotype. I want to be in good enough shape to run around the city to explore. (And be strong enough to carry my luggage long distances during my travels!) Since I leave in 82 days, I must start now. Because tomorrow isn’t here yet so why should I wait?3) I must set a good example for my two young siblings who look up to me.4) I must take control of my body and my choices. After I read the Body Fat Solution, I realized the state of my body was related to a belief that I would never be able to achieve some “ideal” set for me by someone else. My body was a mess because my focus was on being thin instead of strong and healthy. Now my attitude has changed and for me this challenge is less about how I will look by the end (which, of course will be a nice bonus) and more to do with resisting the notion that women ought to be a certain way. (Thin, with a low body weight and certainly not muscular.) The habits I employed to get there were keeping me fat and unhappy because they were based on deprivation and guilt instead of nourishment and empowerment. Now, my motivation has more to do with how much sharper and happier I feel when I’m engaged in a routine based on strength building. I want to be as strong physically as I am mentally and emotionally. At my university I’m a leader of a women’s organization, and I want to set an example for the girls on my campus, to prove that being healthy and being weak are mutually exclusive, and that weights aren’t just for boys! (My friends actually refer to the weight section of our gym as ‘the guys side’, and I cringe every time.)5) I deserve it. I know this, but sometimes I don’t feel it, which is what has prevented me from reaching my fitness goals.

Its mid Autumn here in Australia and a must for this summer is to be in good shape. Belly at the beach is not a good look. Carrying extra weight is unhealthy.I must work hard as my health is suffering through lack of exercise and I just dont feel good. I have started, taking more care with diet but I must incorporate more exercise to B T F.I must also set the example for the rest of my family by working hard not only at my job and around the house but for my body and myself…

Why should I enter the contest? There are simple answers why I must:1. I’m fat2. My 16 year old needs me to step up to the plate, show her how discipline and planning can lead toward a healthier lifestyle and a slimmer body3. I’m fat4. I’m over 40, and my cholesterol and triglyceride levels are sneaking into a place where if I don’t soon get a grip…I’ll end up on medications, or in the hospital with a heart attack or stroke5. I’m fat6. My knees hurt…probably from the aforementioned fat7. I’m fat8. I’m weak strength-wise, and I never was before…weird how it all of a sudden was noticeable. I used to have strong muscles, and now I have fat and no muscles…9. and 10. I’m fatI think that’s it…

cannot wait for this to start!!!!!!!!!!!!

When I look in the mirror I want to love what I see. I want to be lean and muscular and have the body I’ve always dreamed of. I want to be able to go to the beach take my shirt off and have other men look at me with envy. I want women to hardly be able to keep their eyes off me. I want my wife to want to make love all the time and not be able to keep her hands off of me. I want my kids to be able to brag about their dad’s muscles to their friends. I want to have the energy to do the things I want to do when I want to do them. I want to be strong, healthy and vibrant and be able to maintain this healthy lifestyle for the rest of my life. I want to live longer than my parents and grandparents. I want to be around for my kids to able to give them advice as they become adults. I want to be there to watch my grandkids grow up and be able to be active with them. I want to set an example of living a healthy lifestyle for my family by leading the way. I want to live a long prosperous and healthy life. I want to See The Reaching. That’s why I want to transform my body.P.S.- I want to have a body Like Evander Holyfield at 47years old. I’ll be that on August 20th.

I MUST lose the weight as I’m 8 months away from turning 40! I’ve been lucky so far, and even though I’m overweight, I haven’t developed have hypertension, diabetes, heart problems, high cholesterol, etc. But I know that luck will not last. So it’s high time to get in the best shape of my life and it starts NOW!!

I just got a call on Friday that took me back to a place that I never want to go again. I have been a Zumba instructor since September 2009. I was given the chance after being a participant in the classes for 9 months. Well, at 237 pounds I am definitely the biggest fitness instructor at my gym but I love what I do so much! My boss called on Friday to say that she she received complaints about my class and that she would have to pull me out of it. People didn’t feel like they were getting enough intensity and that they felt like they could do more than me and I didn’t chellenge them enough. She said that I could switch to a different class that was more of a basic beginner level and that I should be able to handle that one.I was absolutely crushed!! The reason that I MUST be in better shape by the end of summer is that I never want to feel that sense of inadequacy, insecurity, and defeat again. I know that I’m good at what I do, but I need to lose this weight not only for teaching classes, but for myself. My family has history of diabetes, stroke, obesity, high blood presure, etc. I MUST and I WILL change my life and give hope to other people as well to know that they can change their lives for good!!

This is a great opportunity to focus on the most important aspects of life: a healthy body inside and out to enjoy life to the fullest and share it with others. I have a tender achiles tendon to manage, and this contest is the opportunity to make sure being strong and healthy does not take a backseat this summer. I owe it to myself and to my family. Thank you for putting together these incredibly motivating opportunities!

Well Tom, without reading any of the other posts and I usually do just to get a feel for what others say, I will admit to you that I have been a constant user of “should a” and “would a” throughtout all aspects of my life that I’m finally determined to get rid of those nasty, procrastinating ideas or thoughts and actually finish something I start in my life…finally! Seems I have never been able to finish important things I start only because of a fear of failure, I guess! Well, I am going to change that right now, and I’m not going to depend on anyone to make sure I do! The ball is in my court and I will be accountable for my own success!Thanks for asking, Tom!Paul

Ready to get in shape and enjoy a more physical lifestyle. Would like to look at a picture of myself and be proud of what I see.

The reason I must become better physically is because people watch me and interrogate me (haha). I came out of the closet and announced that I was a, ‘Tom Venuto,’ groupie this past year. Never expecting to become a groupie of any kind I found myself pretty much worshiping the fat loss bible, BFFM. After working as a Registered Nurse for a crazy amount of years and growing up in a family of insane nurses, I have always been surrounded with health issues and health ideals. I quickly realized that many, many, of the problems that I was treating in the hospital were results and/or contributions of obesity and self-neglect. People suffer, people die, and those they love suffer along with them. I got tired of chasing disease. I figured why not take control of what you, “can,” and use it for all that it is worth! I took myself out of the hospitals and started preaching in the gyms, out of the gyms, and well- anywhere someone would listen to me. “Prevent it – don’t chase it!” I got my Personal Trainer Certificate through NSCA and I am not making near the paycheck I was in nursing – but I have a fire under the seat of my pants and I believe what I have learned through NSCA and reading BFFM. It is just a case of simple addition and subtraction mixed with a dose of DO IT NOW then watch as the miraculous body does what it was made to do. It has nothing to do with injections and/or strange drugs – YOU ARE in control! Talk about empowerment! If I can get a 72 year old lady into the gym lifting weights on a regular basis and walking distances she wasn’t able to for several years and she is STILL doing it over a year later, I MUST do it. Talk about competition! All I can say is watch out HCG – you will soon see your days run short.

My must is to take it to the next level. It is too easy to just get through your workout each week. I need to get it going for real. No more just working out. It is time to push myself to see what I can really do.

Must, must, must! I am a fat fitness instructor. I feel embarrassed to admit that to myself, not to mention blog it, UNTIL I remember how far I’ve come. I was a 240 lb. 5′ 7″ sedentary cigarette smoking mother of 2. I traded my cigarettes for a world renowned fitness program and loved it so much I wanted to take my workouts to the instructor level. Still overweight, I passed workshop trainings. Two years went by and my workouts increased in intensity, but my eating habits stayed the same. I did tone up, lose inches, and even lost 20 lbs. But that was it. Then I found BFFM. After reading the ebook and figured out what/when to eat and how to calculate it all, my body changed. My workouts became more instructor worthy. I was working more efficiently with more intensity, energy, and strength. 30 lbs of fat melted away and muscle definition was starting to shine through. With my goal weight of 166 lbs in sight and feeling fabulous at 34, I decided it was time for my 3rd and final baby. I continued eating the BFFM way at the maintenance level and exercisng which my OB was supportive of. After complications unrelated to diet and exercise, I went on brief bedrest and started eating junk. I knew I could get back to BFFM and reach my goal after delivery. Baby #3 turned 1 May 10th and I weigh 200 lbs. My goal is 34 lbs. away and I am ready to take my body back. 98 days over summer vacation for a public school employee is perfect timing. Our hectic lives will slow down some and I can focus on me. I want to be a visibly fit instructor, sporting the midrift tops and shorter shorts, letting my good looking abs shine through! Going to Maui will be sweet, I’ve never taken an adult vacation before. This challenge is a MUST!

I want to change my body in 98 for my family. My wife has a serious history of heart disease and I want to make sure one of us is around for our children. I want to wake up and feel refreshed and energized so I can enjoy a long life with my family. I believe with Tom’s book and system I will be able to beat the fat for life.

I have proven to myself that Feed the “Muscle, Burn the Fat” really works even after trying every other diet on the planet.After losing 83 pounds I have beome a role model for my 10 year old granddaughter who has a tendency toward weight gain. She is a real dynamo on the soccer field but runs short of breath about half time. I want to work on myself in order to set the example and hopefully encourage her to join me on the journey.Perhaps by fall she will be in the shape of her life in order to have the time of her life on that soccer field. And hopefully I will be her shining star on the sideline.

I MUST transform myself from a 70 year old obese person so I can enjoy life as it should be. We enjoy being with our grand kids and I want to be able to continue to do things with them as they get older.I have both of Tom’s books, but I now need to put the information I have learned to use. The exercise is the easiest. My after dinner ‘snacking’ is what is my main problem.I have always been overweight to some extent, and this summer is when I must take action to prolong my life to take advantage of any long life genes I have.

I love all the great feedback to this question of must. I am 55, and I have lost over 50 lb since last October and have been working out consistently since January. I still have a way to go to get to where I want to go. I feel that I am at a tipping point of moving forward or backward. I must move forward to reach my goal of single digit body fat. And although this 98 days won’t get me there, it will move me in the right direction that I must go.

What are the REASONS WHY you want to be in better shape at the end of the summer than you are today?1. I want to set a good example of physical fitness for my children.2. I want to be in the best shape of my life when I turn 40.I have been big my entire life. Athletic and in good health, but big. I am now in my late thirtys and over the last several years my weight reached an all time high (320). I bought your book last year and it guided me back to the gym and I lost 50 pounds and reduced my body fat percentage by 12% in 6 months. On past diets I focused on weight as the most important goal. Your book taught me to focus on body composition and I did a great job improving by 12% in 6 months. I have recently stalled and lost focus, but I intend to reach my final goal that I set last year. This challenge will help me focus on my final goal and will serve as my 3 month target.Why is transforming your body NOW – in the next 98 days- an absolute MUST for you?I will be forty in two years, and I MUST start the second half of my life in great shape. My fear is that the longer I wait to get in shape, the harder it will be to do it. My twins just turned 5 and they are at the age where they are setting their own habits. I WILL be a positive role model for them. They WILL see their father as someone who is strong and in shape and works out regularly. I WILL set a good example so they will not be overweight as children like I was!

Aloha Tom!I’m turning the big 4-0 this summer and my mantra has been “4 pack at 40.” (with a 6 pack to follow!) Been working at it for some time and have totally plateaued out with about 5-7 pounds to go. It’s really time to start burning off the fat and showing off the muscle. I’ve been “on board” with fitness and nutrition for many years and have had great success, however I’ve yet to hit the ultimate goal of seeing my abs and that is is why I want it.

Hi Tom,Yesterday I turned 37 and it`s not that easy to loose weight.I went for a fun run yesterday and it wasn`t only me who jogged but even my jelly belly started moving.At my age I constantly have to think to keep my breath in to keep my stomach in.We have a very long summer in my country lasting almost till October,and I did not come out of Winter hibernation yet.I`m not sure if I can make it in 6-8 weeks.My worst problem has always been my stomach since my teens. As soon as I start binging my stomach tyres come out.I`m dreading the moment of myself taking off my clothes to take the first swim on the beach.

Tom,I just got to know about your website recently when I was browsing on health and exercise related topics. So, I had been following your news letters and updates on the contest lately.The reason I want to get fit this summer is – I have been working out since last 10 years and feel like I reached a plateau and still 7 kgs overweight and need to break that.Also, after crossing 30, have been having all kinds of problems (knee pain, back pain) and feels like I lost control of my body. So, I definitely want to get the control back and feel confident with a fit body-Sri

I MUST make this body transformation not only for myself, but for my 8 year old daughter who weighs over 100 lbs. If I don’t step up as a mother and learn the proper way to care for myself, then I am setting my child up for failure. I can’t teach her the proper things to eat because I don’t know! I can’t teach her the proper way to exercise or stay active because I don’t know how! I’m a mother of three…my 17 year old is disable and somewhat over weight…my 8 year old is considerably overweight…and my 5 month old will probably be overweight if I can’t take control of my health! Although all of my children mean the world to me and I want them to be healthy, my 8 year old is the one who I am most concerned about. She is a very intelligent child and imitates me. She helps me so much with the baby and her older sister, but because I am overweight and miserable, she is overweight and miserable. I MUST accomplish this goal so that my children and myself can learn to LIVE a happy and healthy life without being miserable, overweight and using food to cure our emotional woes! I MUST do this today!!!!

Tom,A lot has happened in the past three years, including losing my gym membership, the death of my mother, a new job, and finally, my husband losing his job. I can think of a dozen excuses not to work out. I’m 45 and am starting to experience what I believe is my hereditary penchant for arthritis and fibromyalgia.I need to be strong for my family, and now is the time to get serious about it. I’ve subscribed to your email list and have wished I had enough money to buy your series. Maybe now is the time.Thanks Tom

I am 3 months away from turning 30 and need to begin the journey towards feeling and being healthier. I need to take control of my eating & exercise habits so that I can take contorl of the rest of my life. I need to discipline myself into eating healthy and exercising regularly before having children as I will not bring a child into a household where food is still an issue.

Been working out the last year and a half and I drastically improved on my nutrition…..I still weigh more or less the same but my bodyfat is down by at least 6% and I gained some lean muscle……the transformation is really noticable but fat loss and muscle gain has come to a halt about 6 months ago :(I feel so de-motivated,I really need this challenge to get me going again. It is the start of winter in my country, so this will be more like a winter challenge for me.Really looking forward to being a part of this challenge.

I must change my body, because I’m worried about my health. Two of my grandparents died from stroke, and my dad had a stroke last summer, luckily he survived, despite that the first prognocise was pessimistic. My bad cholesterol is also too high. I´m a skinny fat guy. I’m otherwise skinny, but have too much belly fat, and too little muscle. I must change my bodycomposition, loose fat and gain muscle. This has been very difficult for me, despite that I have been working out quit a lot, but with little results. I hope this challenge will make a difference.

I’m over the 4.. 0 .. mark and had a pretty tough life. Widow, 3 kids business – never enough time for myself after giving to everyone else. Always feeling that i am not capable of pulling off something like this – that i am not quite good enough. Of cousre i need to get rid of this type of “Thinking and Attitude “. I need to make this body transformationan an absolute must to proove to myself once and for all that i am worthy and capable of having a great body, fantastic health, unlimited energy and passion for life ..

Using the BFFM programme rapidly made a significant impact on my health and fitness levels and reduced my BMI from the borderline top end of normal to the mid-range normal. However, I’ve relied too much on the nutrition and aerobic fitness aspects to undergo any significant body transformation, and am still a classic skinny-fat person. I have totally plateaued in the last six months. Now my weight is beginning to show signs of creeping up by a couple of kilos, and that will all be fat for sure. I’m totally convinced the BFFM has all the elements needed for me to produce a significant change in my body composition – and I think taking on the summer challenge could help focus me back on the actions I need to take to make it happen.

Here are the reasons why I want to transform my body this summer:I want to feel good about how I lookI want to play with my kids without getting out of breathI want my kids to be proud of what their dad can achieveI want to be able to put on my clothes without them feeling too tightI want to feel healthy and energeticI want to win the competitionI AM going to do this and this is the perfect goal that I need to achieve it. The competition for me though is to reach the end knowing that I have given it my all. If I do that then I have won my very own competition. Then – its guarenteed that I will be in a much better place than I am now.Good luck everyone – we can do it.BRING IT ON !!!Thanks Tom.

Transforming my body NOW is an absolute MUST to me because i want to overcome my depression and be an inspirational for my three kids.

I’m 39 in 2 weeks, I’ve been overweight all my life, not obese but still overweight, and just figured “thats the way I’m meant to be, it’s genetic”. Now I know it’s not genetic, I just eat too much cr*p, drink too many beers and don’t execise enough, and then I lie to myself to justify my bad habits.If I want to be healthy, avoid heart disease, stroke and any number of other horrible self inflicted diseases, I MUST take control over my actions and lose the fat.Yes, I want to be healthy, but I also want to look good and feel great. When I turn 40 I WILL be lean. That means I MUST accept the BFFM challenge and start my transformation today.Thanks Tom.

AlohaI want to weight 100 kilos ’cause surfing is my passion.As you might know if you surf you are back in the food chain.So in case of a shark attack I wanna be able to fight.I weight 85 kilos right know and work hard to achieve my goal.Mahalo & best regards from Germany,Dan

SUMMER …the end of spring and the beginning of fall. This is going to be great. I can put an end to all the old habits and begin Fall with a new body and new thinking surrounding my eating and exercising habits. Fall is normally a terribly busy time for me workwise. I need to do this NOW so I won’t be able to use the excuse that I’m too busy to change. I am so excited about this. Embarassing as it is to admit this, my baby is 14 months old and I’m still wearing maternity pants. Wow. Horrible to see that in black and white. I’m ready to throw all the matrnity and big clothes away for good. I’m need to not only lose my 20 pounds of pregnancy weight but I need to beat my leanest body fat of 20%. I’m ready to be my most fit ever. 98 days is enough time to do it. Let’s go!!Sheryl J.

This year I get to my 55th birthday. This is a milestone for me in many ways, many of them really positive. However, where it comes to my weight and fat levels, it’s a reminder of how much I haven’t achieved. I weigh in at 208 with a body fat percentage of somewhere between 18 and 22%. My whole life has been a struggle with being fat from being a fat baby, kid, teenager, etc. Two years ago I managed through extreme dieting via a soy based approach to get my weight down to 180 but I was unable to sustain it longer than 9 months. So, I’m hoping that this will be the motivator for me to push my body composition to a more optimal level. My age and body type (endomorph) work against me but I really don’t want to head to my senior years carrying these extra pounds. So, here I go again – I’m really hoping I can make it happen.

“EVERYBODY DIES, BUT NOT EVERYBODY LIVES!!” Obesity has surely helped with the first part of the qoute, I now want to experience the second part of the qoute, by losing all those unhealthy, unneeded extra weight and reclaim my life; I am going to LIVE!!!

Oh my, I have a lot of should’s but I’m tired of those – I never follow through on them.I am overweight and hate that I haven’t moved past my defeatism and my quick fix attitude. Nothing but hard work and dedication is going to do it for me.I’m not doing this for my kids, though its a help, but for me. I don’t want to move into my 40’s with an overweight body – I want to be fit and fabulous and never stop moving forward.Thanks so much for the opportunity!

I AM STRUGGLING WITH MY MENU. I EAT THE SAME THINGS EVERYDAY AND I SO TIRED. I DON’T LIKE A LOT OF FOODS AND IT’S BEEN VERY HARD TO DIET. IF ANYONE HAS ANY SUGGESTIONS, PLEASE HELP!!!!!! THANKS IN ADVANCE.

Thnaks Tom. Your book and nutrition advice has been a huge help. It’s really turned my life and health around!Shawn

My last trip to my doctor revealed that my tirglycerides were too high to calculate from my cholesterol readings. My doctor wants to put me on yet another medication to lower my triglycerides. I know that with proper diet and exercise I can lower it naturally, and I don’t want to be on any medications I don’t have to be on. Also, my soon-to-be 14 year old daugter, who is overfat, questions why she should listen to my advise on losig fat when I have the same problem. I want to be an example and an inspiration to her so she doesn’t have to suffer through years of a low self-image like I have.

I am going to prove to myself, and to my husband, that I can do hard things. I’m not going to quit when things get hard and I’m going to push through. I also want to learn to love me for the things i can and do accomplish, and to love my body. I want to gain energy so that I can play with my children and teach them the importance of making exercise and healthy eating habits a part of their lives. I want to learn to love exercise and the feeling of eating healthy eating and keep the desire of those two things in my life for a long time.

I did not struggle much with my weight when I was younger. I am 5’7″ and have been between 125-135 for most of my life, even if I gained weight, it was relatively easy for me to lose when I made the decision. All that changed when I reached my late 30s and early 40s. The last 5 or 6 years I have really struggled with my weight. To make matters worse I have dealt with multiple medical conditions that have derailed my weight loss. I have had back surgery, broke my right foot twice (once requiring surgical repair) and undergone multiple fertility treatments and diagnostic testing all of which prevented me from working out for some period of time. After four unsuccessful fertility treatments, I found myself at an all time high of 200 lbs. I have lost about 25 lbs, so I know I can do it, but have struggled to get below 175 lbs. Most recently my back problems have returned and I have been diagnosed with gall bladder disease and will have it removed later this week.I “MUST” get my diet right to avoid any future digestive issues as I believe my diet is a big factor in gall bladder disease. I also believe getting my diet right is a huge factor in weight loss and will prevent future weight gain.I “MUST” lose the weight because I believe it will help alleviate/prevent additional back issues.I want to lose the weight for myself. I want to look better and feel better about myself this year in my bikini. My inability to have children has been a real blow and I want to move on and get back to the carefree person I once was. Changing my appearance is a giant step in that direction.I truly believe I “MUST” lose this weight for both my mental and physical well being.

Tom,Because of BFFM, I have lowered my body fat from 24% to 12% in 7 months. With the new contest, it will motivate me even more to reach my goal of 8% or less.I am 45 years old and just want to be in the best shape of my life! And I want to look ripped! ; )Thanks Again!Kraig

I have read BFFM. I have a vision board with pictures of inspirational women and quotes. I have cleaned out the cabinets of all the junk (that my family will allow). I have a food scale. I have a home gym, dumbbells, bands, videos, water bottles and mp3 player. And I have many, many, many failed or incomplete attempts at losing fat and transforming my body. I have had some success in losing weight. But after reading your book I realize it was probably mostly water, some fat, and some muscle. I also have my many excuses. The same reasons and excuses we all have! Work, children, on the road, too busy, prior commitments, hindering health and disease diagnosis’ telling me all the reasons those ‘after pictures’ will never be me, or ‘it’s just too hard!’.I MUST do this because I know I CAN do this. And everyday that I wake up and HAVEN’T done it, sends me deeper into the depression I’ve called home for so long. Well, I’m ready to SAY so long! So long depression, so long excuses, so long old body. Hello joy, energy, strength, confidence, and hello success. Hello water parks, Maui beaches, camera’s, and sexy lingerie! I must do this because right now I am the before photo. My after photo is hidden under the before photo. I want to take the before photo that I see in the mirror everyday and literally RIP IT TO SHREDS! I must crawl out of this deep well of depression that I’m in. This transformation challenge is the rope that has been tossed down to me. Now it’s up to me to do the work to pull myself up out of this well. It’s all me now!

I want to be in better shape at the end of the summer than I am today because maintaining an 80+ pound weight loss over the last three years has left me feeling and looking good…but I want to feel and look GREAT!As I go forward with my plans to get a graduate degree in nutrition, I want to be a physical embodiment of what nutrition and exercise can achieve. I want future patients or clients to have absolutely no doubt that I don’t just talk the talk, but that I also walk the walk.Plus, I want to really rock a pair of jeans and to feel good in a bikini for the first time ever (right now I cling to my lower-body cover-up like a security blanket). I’ve struggled with weight since I was a child, and even during times when I was “normal” weight, I never really, really, felt good about my body. There was always that amount of extra body fat hanging around. I’m 41, which seems like an obstacle to many to achieve a great body, but I’ve seen enough examples of what 40+ can look like to know that’s not true!I MUST transform my body NOW because if now now, when? I’m busy, but will be even busier a year from now. And it’s a myth that there’s a magical “perfect” time to focus on health and fitness. I need to just buck up and DO it, and NOW is the time!

At the age of 18, I only weighted 97 pounds at 5.4ft. Even after I came to the United States and after all the fatty food I was eating, I still was never able to pass the 135 pounds.I was always called “Starving Boy” by my entire family and friends. I hate it. I wanted to be by big like everyone else, so I started working out a bit and eating everything in sight.Currently, I am 180 pounds in a disgusting shape. And everyone in my family saying that once you become fat and will alays be fat. So I am hoping this contest would motivate me to add at leat 5 pounds of muscle and burn 25 pounds of fat so I can prove everyone in my family wrong.

At age 46 I have been nominated for Mrs Modern Woman South Africa … great! Except I don’t see how I could look stunning in a night gown with this rolls around my middle. Have been excersizing for the the last 18 months doing the lady like ‘Curves” but I have reached a plato after 6 months. Been a slave of the Burn the Fat regime for the last 6 months, but I see I will need more personal inside advise! :-)

I must get back in shape. I’m tired of the aches and pains that I feel. I want to take control of my life and my health and I can’t do it by sitting still and running to McDonalds.

I have recently been dianosed with type 2 diabetes so I need a life style change. I am 49 and was 243 lbs and have recently lost 30 lbs so I am on my way. I love sugar and low glycemic index foods but that has all changed and I need to learned to enjoy the healthy foods. I am currently taking medication for the diabetes and I am hoping to get to where I don’t have to take the medication. My blood sugar was 498 when I went to the doctor and this morining it was 111. I need to continue and work hard to get rid of the belly fat to stay in good health for my family and myself

When I was younger, I never wanted to believe that there was a possibility that I could gain weight. I always thought that would never happen to me. I have always been a fairly active person but my diet has not been the best. Well, now that I am in my mid-forties and have 4 kids, I have to eat my own words. I guess I am one of those people you would call “skinny fat”. I am not really overweight, but man do I have a lot of fat that has accumulated in my mid section these last few years. I must lose this fat now so that it does not lead to other health problems. My parents have a history of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, etc. I already have high blood pressure I am dealing with, so I know it is must that I get this fat problem under control immediately. Also, it would be nice to be able to walk by the pool or on a beach and not be ashamed of what my stomach looks likes. Finally, Tom I want to prove to the world that you are right that with diet and exercise you can truly control your appearance and over all well being. I can’t wait to see the results!

I’m doing this contest because I want to change my beliefs! I have always been told that genetics make it impossible to change the body. I’d like to prove to myself that belief is not true. I want to feel proud of my body, increase my energy, and ultimately achieve a goal I’ve had for years. No more excuses.

I must be in better shape 98 days from today for the simple reason that I am unhealthy and out-of-shape. Looks aside, I get out of breath running up a small flight of stairs. My blood pressure is on the rise to say nothing of the health numbers I can’t monitor every day. It is important for me to stay independant, and I won’t be able to be that if I don’t change my ways. Additionally, I don’t like myself right now. I don’t like the fact that I have allowed food to rule my life instead of me ruling food. It is for these reasons that I will change and be better 98 days from today than I am now.

Getting in the best shape of my life is a MUST for me because I’ve never felt sexy about my body. I’ve worked out a lot but never found anything that has given me results to stay motivated.

For me it comes down to one thing: holding off the effects of aging. I’m 45 now and can’t justify holding on to the extra weight. Everyone has a choice of how they want to live their lives, and I’d like to make the rest of mine be as fit and able as possible. Ready for the Summer Challenge!

This challenge is important to me as I have let myself “go” since the start of 2010… letting “emotional eating” get the best of me… By following the BFFM system once again this summer, I KNOW that I can get in the best shape of my life… and with support and accountability, I am certain that I can achieve my goals this summer!

Here’s my answer…..WHY NOT?!?!?!?!?!

I have always been very active and dedicated to keeping fit as I have watched both my Dad and Mom pass away for health reasons that I know exercise and diet change could have avoided. I am determined to follow a different path. I admit I have slowed down lately and it is beginning to show. I must keep on the positive pathway. I know your wealth of information will get me there.

There is so much we cannot control. I have decided to take control of the things I can – what I eat, how much I exercise, the time with my family – to be as happy as possible.

The reason I have chosen to take this challenge is to make a positive change in who I am and who I want to be. I have struggled with my weight and how to keep it to a minimum while looking good. Burning fat for me usually consisted of fasting and abusing my body instead of using good eating and proper exercise.Tom’s Book has inspired me to prove to my subconscious that I will win the battle not just this summer but as an ongoing strife.This is a must for me cause my health is declining and I have a child who needs me

Hi Tom,I have 4 beautiful kids (born within 4 years of each other). My “baby” is almost 9 years old and people still look at me and ask when is my baby due. My kids are very active throughout the year running and swimming and I am refuse to sit on the bench and just watch any more. I must transform my body, not only for my own self esteem, but to show my kids that getting older does not automatically mean you become tired and overweight.

I have a job that requires lots of hours and frequent travel. I am looking forward to this challenge not only to look and feel beter but to help me break the cycle of eating whatever is easiest and not exercising enough while using “not enough time” as an excuse. I feel my health has deteriorated in the last year or so. I started working out at the gym about a year ago, but have not kept a regular schedule. Looking forward to getting back on track and learning how to eat healthy food at home and on the road. Just reread the Body Fat Solution over the weekend and look forward to putting those concepts to work. I am about 45 lbs overweight and can’t wait to feel good again!

I have really been thinking about this challenge and EXACTLY why I want to do it for at least a month now. It’s so much more than just what I look like – even though I know I’ll thoroughly enjoy that result as well!1. I want the ability to be able to say ‘yes’ to anything I want to do. I am sick of my limited energy, mobility, strength being a hinderance when it comes to opportunities in life. I volunteer with high school kids and there are a lot of athletic related events that I sit out of due to embarassment. I want to GET IN THE GAME, not just be the photographer…2. Speaking of photography though, that’s another motivating reason to do this. I’ve found myself avoiding all pictures because I don’t want my current ‘self’ captured on film – especially in the age of social media. I don’t want to go through life avoiding capturing experiences though. I want to jump happily into pictures and document all of the great things that are happening in my life. I really do love my life – I want to be able to share that joy in photographs.3. I am also doing this for my kids – both the high school kids I mentor now, and the biological kids I hope to have in the future. I want to be a good example for the youth I work with in that if you work hard, you can make big changes in a short amount of time. I also want to emphasize to them how important it is to keep your health in check beginning now – not waiting until you have to take drastic measures. And of course, I want to be in better health to have children when that time comes. I think if I were to get pregnant now, it would put a great amount of stress on my body due to my weight. Not to mention, when I do have children, I want to have better health habits in place so that they have a better chance of having healthy values ingrained in them from the get go rather than having to figure it out on their own, like I did.4. My overall health is also becoming a factor – I’ve known that the weight I’m carrying has always had a negative impact on my overall health, but I’m starting to see it in numbers that I can’t deny. Last time I gave blood, my cholesterol level had shot up compared to my previous donation. Even though it’s not in a danger zone, it’s still NOT ok. I can do something about it, and I will. I’ve also noticed my joints creaking and popping, and I know my weight has a great affect on that as well. I don’t want to deteriorate my joints to the point that I have early effects of arthritis – I want to be up and active as long as possible!5. Insecurity – my weight plays into my insecurity issues a great deal. I’m at the point that I know that losing weight and achieving my perfect body isn’t the answer to all happiness, but I know it will have a great impact on my outlook. I will stop using it as a crutch and a way to hide.6. The mental challenge – I believe that the COMPLETION of this challenge is going to be a HUGE mental hurdle. When I get to the end of these 98 days, I will have stuck with something for 14 weeks. And it will be a hard, challenging 14 weeks. But I will have done it and I will have the physical results to prove it. And honestly, it’ll provide the framework for future challenges and goal setting in other areas of my life as well…I think that’s enough for now. Suffice it to say, it’s much more than just having a nice body. It’s about having a great life and sharing it with others…

Greetings Tom and BFFM Staff,Well….I think my reason for entering is probably different than most of the other entries. I MUST enter this contest because I entered the Holiday Challenge last year and did not complete the work I needed to do then. I let myself down so now it’s time to pick myself up and come back stronger.Back in November it was a MUST for me to complete the BFFM challenge….now it’s a “MUST SQUARED”!!Good luck to all the contestants. You are all already winners for making the decision to change. That is the first step!

I must do this challenge to change my life, for a healthier , happier me. Discipline, routine, structure, good habits, new ways, goal setting, these are all the things and more that I can see happening as I accept the challenge. I do not want to take pictures, I do not want to take measurements, and do not want to write an essay, or keep a journal. I hate to exercise. I see that I do not want to see the facts before me. but that are the key words, “before “, “after.” You have to have a starting place. Now, it is, face the facts head on, train hard and expect success. Possitive attitude, goals and plans in writing. I am not going to have this layer on me. I have PTSD, hypothyroidism, bi-polar, my weight has went from 192 to 117. I went up and down for years.I held at 165 then 145, now at 140 range.( I get completments, you are “fit as fiddle”, just last night,(from RN) when I took somene to ER.she wanted to know what I did outside, I told her I don’t work out and, I also am a master at deguise,the only thing she could see is my arms.)I work hard out doors I prefer, over exercise. 5’3/4″. Body fat 30%, goal 14%. I hate medicines. I have great difficulties staying on tasks, I am easily distracted. To complete a task, or set a goal and follow through does not happen. I feel I MUST do the challenge to change every piece of my life. To prove this can be achived. That I can change. This is the life is a challenge, I am convienced this is a win, win situation. To be able to follow through with goals; I will be setting good habits, old out, new good thoughts, old out. …So out with the old and in with the new. I conclude with the life changeing events that MUST take place in my life, to change me, spiritualy, phsyically, mentally and only I can make the changes happen. I MUST make a copy of this and read several times a day. Stay on task, stay focused, see the end results before they are here. Stay possitive, train hard, expect success, and FROG. I CAN do this, and remember with God nothing is impossible. Fully Rely On God! (FROG) I do the work and lean, “lean,lol” on Him!! Thank you Tom for all your information and hard work, and to all your staff. Now, I have to figure out the how to do this when I click on the links. How post and operate my computer and “get intense.”

For the last 1 1/2 years, I have been very consistant with living a healthy lifestyle. I am in the best shape of my life. However, as with anything, you are either going forwards or backwards. Nothing ever stays the same. I will be 47 this summer and I want to prove not only to myself, but to others that it is NEVER too late to improve yourself. Tom’s words are inspiring and for the first time in my life, I actually am starting to understand the importance of exersize and proper nutrition to get great results. I want to share with anyone that will listen that they can do it too!

I am joining the 98 day challenge because I have to focus on my health for he benefit of my 4 month old daughter and husband of 2 years. I weighed 285 when I delivered her; luckily it was a very healthy pregnancy and birth without any complications. I bought the ebook last Friday because I have put it off for a few years and figured now is the perfect time. I weigh 265 right now and have a goal to lose 65 pounds of fat by Christmas Day. We want to have another child next year, so I have to build muscle and lose fat to be in better shape for my next pregnancy and beyond. I always wanted to be thinner for vanity reasons. Now I have a family and getting fit is my new goal; I have so much to live for and have to get to a healthy body composition to make sure I am here for them for as long as possible. Failure to do so would be selfish of me.

Why I must, I have a personal contest with a co-worker before Halloween 2010 to see who can get in better shape for our costumes; she Zena, me; Gladiator. At the ripe old age of 52; yikes, I want to prove to those who say I can’t, that I can get six pack abs. Heck, I want the fat to be gone and have bigger tone muscles like most guys just to flaunt it. On why I should, all the reasons that go with health and nutrition; that’s a given. But personal goals, I drink alcohol too much, i.e. beer. Where I live, beer drinking just isn’t a deer camp refreshment. Call it a cultural condiment. This will be a huge test of will for me. My eating choices won’t change to dramatically. What I found is I don’t eat enough often enough; I attest that to the ‘side of beer.’ and my social habits will need to be adjusted. So bring on the ‘Big Burn’

I’m 48-yrs-old, fat and frumpy, scared to death of bringing on the diabetes that’s plagued my brother and father…negotiating thyroid issues…and generally feeling that my body has been my enemy for so long. This is my year to become the best I can be. I’m a cancer survivor, which you’d have thought would have been a wakeup call. But I fell asleep again and allowed my body — my temple — to take 2nd place. Enough with excuses, with playing the victim. It’s either now or never. This is my must: I MUST take back my body and own it before diabetes owns me.

Right now I’m sitting at 113.6 pounds and a suprailiiac caliper reading of 2.5 mm. I’m a small woman, 5 feet in height, and fairly active by most people’s standards although my work is quite sedentary.I am NOT in dire straits. Strictly speaking, I don’t need a huge change in body composition, and it’s questionable as to whether or not a great deal of fat loss will be beneficial for me, in terms of my looks and the healthy functioning of my immune system.However, that said, I am just coasting. I play my sports, ride my bike for quick errands a couple of times of week, and dabble in a bit of additional training now and then — going for weeks or a few months or maybe just a session or two. The latter has been more true as of late. I have a computer job, and recently I started working for myself so I don’t even have to bike in to the office anymore. And I have access to a car more often than I truly need it.Lately I’ve been jettisoning some of my favourite activities more often just so I can work more, and deciding to drive instead of cycle because it seems more convenient for running multiple errands. It’s not really resulting in more getting things done; I’m spinning my wheels a lot more (in a figurative sense) and accomplishing a lot less. Between time stress and feeling just a little more out of shape than I used to be, I can feel the creep of laziness and fear of effort tickling at the edges of my psyche.So this is why I MUST make a project of getting in great shape this summer. Even if I am pretty close to a body I am happy with, I am not at all happy with my habits and my efforts, and the short shrift I am giving to the desires of the athlete, martial artist, and vibrant human being I wish to be. I’m in pretty decent shape, but I want to be in great shape. I’m a halfway decent at my sports, but I want to be great at them — as great as I can possibly be. I want to work toward maximizing whatever potential I have in the physical domain, because in doing so I know I will acquire the habits and mental and technical skills I need to achieve anything I want. I am doing this to burn the joy of working hard and consistently into my memory and psyche, so that I will always remember that this is how I get what I truly want, whatever that may be.

[repost: forgot to include last initial]Right now I’m sitting at 113.6 pounds and a suprailiiac caliper reading of 2.5 mm. I’m a small woman, 5 feet in height, and fairly active by most people’s standards although my work is quite sedentary.I am NOT in dire straits. Strictly speaking, I don’t need a huge change in body composition, and it’s questionable as to whether or not a great deal of fat loss will be beneficial for me, in terms of my looks and the healthy functioning of my immune system.However, that said, I am just coasting. I play my sports, ride my bike for quick errands a couple of times of week, and dabble in a bit of additional training now and then — going for weeks or a few months or maybe just a session or two. The latter has been more true as of late. I have a computer job, and recently I started working for myself so I don’t even have to bike in to the office anymore. And I have access to a car more often than I truly need it.Lately I’ve been jettisoning some of my favourite activities more often just so I can work more, and deciding to drive instead of cycle because it seems more convenient for running multiple errands. It’s not really resulting in more getting things done; I’m spinning my wheels a lot more (in a figurative sense) and accomplishing a lot less. Between time stress and feeling just a little more out of shape than I used to be, I can feel the creep of laziness and fear of effort tickling at the edges of my psyche.So this is why I MUST make a project of getting in great shape this summer. Even if I am pretty close to a body I am happy with, I am not at all happy with my habits and my efforts, and the short shrift I am giving to the desires of the athlete, martial artist, and vibrant human being I wish to be. I’m in pretty decent shape, but I want to be in great shape. I’m a halfway decent at my sports, but I want to be great at them — as great as I can possibly be. I want to work toward maximizing whatever potential I have in the physical domain, because in doing so I know I will acquire the habits and mental and technical skills I need to achieve anything I want. I am doing this to burn the joy of working hard and consistently into my memory and psyche, so that I will always remember that this is how I get what I truly want, whatever that may be.

I know this sounds odd, but I fear success because I fear failing after succeeding. I want a great body so I can prove to myself that I can get it AND maintain it. Further, I want to inspire others to conquer their fears by showing them what they can achieve through belief and hard work. As a friend recently reminding me, “there is no secret ingredient.” It is simple, back-to-basics work coupled with belief.

I want to be in better shape at the end of the summer than I am today because I have a goal of competing in a fitness competition this year so I better get my butt in gear. I also have low self-confidence and I believe that me getting nice muscle tone will help cure that. I’ve been ‘skinny fat’ for most of my life and what many people don’t know is that even though I may look skinny, my higher body fat percentage can mean I am still at risk for different things just as much as people who are overweight.I must transform my body NOW because I go on cruises during the fall and I have to be in tip top shape because I will in a bikini most of the time.

I am disgusted with what our society has become. It seems we center almost everything around eating, partying, and eating some more. I made a commitment about a year ago to no longer be an unhealthy contributor to this lifestyle. BFFM was, and is part of my new way of life. I preach it to others every chance I get. As for the contest; a great motivation, but the prize will be for my wife. Her selfless giving to our family and caring for our grand daughter (who has ALL), is inspiration to me and others. I will win for her, she deserves it.

I have no problem in motivating myself to train and have been working out for years without any breaks lasting more than a week. Even though my body looks ok, I want to go to the next level and attain that lean, muscular, and very low bodyfat look that many of the best natural bodybuilers have. What I want out of the Burn the Fat Challenge is for it to motivate me to take my training and diet into a much higher level than I have ever been before.

There are several reasons why I want to be in better shape by the end of the Summer than I am today. One is that I desperatly want to get below 200 lbs, preferably reach 180 by the end of the summer. Last August I set a goal from 230 lbs to getting below 200 lbs by my 40th Birthday, which was December 23. I was 7 lbs shy of reaching that goal. At that point I got kinda depressed but I kept working out and tried to keep up my 6 small meals a day. I managed to lose 5 more pounds but I have been at a stand still since January. I am not a very competitive but I do believe that this challenge will motivate me to stay on track.Transforming my body within the nex 98 days is an absolute Must for me because I want to prove to myself that I can attain “THIS” goal, this time. I am also in the process of creating a program to teach and mentor Over weight teenage girls about the importance of Exercise, Nutrition and Self Esteem. I want to be an example and have a testimony for these Young Ladies. I want them to know that Yes U Can, with hard work and dedication.

Hi Tom,I am ready to get lean! I am no longer satisfied with being soft and jiggly. With your guidance I am going to transform my body back into the long and lean athletic build I had before life got in the way. I will work diligently and safely to melt 20 ponds or so of fat off my legs, buttocks, hips, stomach and arms and replace it with lean mass. Now is the time because I deserve it. I am worth it and I will make it happen. I am so excited. Thank you for the spark that has triggered my motivation!!

Why must I? I’ll be 55 this summer. I’m tired of looking 55. I’m tired of feeling 55. I believe I think like I did when I was 20 and not having the exterior (reasonably) match. I used to be athletic: skiing, backpacking, biking, and a gym rat. I want to be athletic again. The reasons that I got in this sorry, overweight, dragged down state seemed reasonable fifteen years ago (too much secular work and caring for a dying parent) on reflection, weren’t really viable then, and certainly aren’t now. NOW is the time to make permanent changes and get back to what I once was. Maui is a SUPERB prize–but the best carrot of all is being fit once again. I’m going for it, full speed ahead. . .

Why is transforming my body important to me this summer?I am about to turn 35 in November and my wife and I are expecting our first baby on June 8th. I knw that I am at a turning point in my life and that I don’t want to be a Dad with middle age spread. I want to be in the best possible phiysical condition so that when we have some baby photos done that I can feel comfortable in front of the camera. Staying the same isn’t an option for me as I really don’t feel comfortable with myself at the moment. I have read the nutritional guides and have my diet and training planned out but am struggling to get started and know that in two or so weeks my world will be turned upside down and will make training even harder to commit to. Without wanting to make this sound like a sob story, my wife has been made redundant and I am self employed so I have been working all the hours I can which is also impacting upon my training. I know that if I had the support of the community and the challenge to win the competition that I WILL make time for the training and acheive my goals.

I have lost 40 pounds over the last year…about 20 more the year or so before that…SLOW AND STEADY…I AM A TORTOISE :) For me, that means going from a size 18/20 to a size 12. I lost almost 1/2 of the last 40 lbs while participating in a challenge at my gym (Gold’s). And Tom, you will be happy to hear that EVERY OUNCE of it was FAT! After reading your BFFM book and putting a lot of it into practice, I actually managed to lose 18.5 lbs of pure fat and put on a pound of lean muscle in 12 weeks!!Since that challenge ended I have maintained…but haven’t lost anymore.I have not been in a size smaller than a 12 since I WAS 12! So…I’ve been happy enough with the results I’ve gotten so far. But now…it is time to be in the BEST shape of my life! I am 35 years old with 2 children under the age of 5. It is my goal to be 20 pounds lighter and 1-2 sizes smaller by the end of this 98-day challenge! I think this BFFM summer challenge will help me stay motivated to lose my last 20 lbs :)

I MUST change my life, not only transform my body. I MUST do this so that I can give my 4 month old son the best life possible, and to be the best wife I can be. I have always been overweight and NOW is the time to change. I KNOW this will work for me I just need to DO IT!!

hey tom, i am excited to enter the burn the fat challenge as i have been trying to lose the stubborn belly fat since last 2 years but havent had any luck. my goal was to get a six pack ab for my 40th birthday but i am soon going to be 42 but i just cant get beyond the 2 packs. even though i have lost a lot of belly fat but that last 10 pounds of stubborn fat bothers me and no matter what i try it wont go…so here i am to transform my body and look great this summer and am finally ready to shred the fat and reveal my abs and hopefully this challenge will do it for me!!!

For several summers now, my family and I have been invited to a beach event which I dread. I feel so ashamed of the way I look in a bathing suit that I usually just sit on the shore and watch everyone else. I can see in my children’s faces how sad they are that I am not enjoying the beach with them. It’s time to put an end to that! It’s time for me to say to myself YES I CAN lose this fat. I can take control of my life! So, by the end of the summer I expect and WILL see a changed woman and proudly wear a bikini to the beach event and enjoy the water with my children. That’s why it’s important for me to transform myself by the end of the summer.I MUST transform my body because for too too long i’ve made excuses about why i’m fat. While I was making excuses, my health was getting worse and worse. I want to once and for all quiet that voice in my head that tells me “you’ll never have a nice body, you can’t do it.” It takes 21 days to create a habit, but with the actions I take this during this challenge, I expect to create habits that will stay with me for the rest of my life. I’ll be 40 in 2 years. I don’t want to be frumpy and dumpy, I want to be fabulous! This challenge is the perfect starting point to transform my body (and my life) so the next 40 years will be vibrant, energetic and beautiful.

I must get in shape by the end of this summer because in September I’ll be 36 and I’m sick and tired of being fat and out of shape!I have already lost 30 pounds and am in better shape than previously, but that’s not saying much.I need to set a good example for my 3 children and take care of myself better.I’d be so stoked to win a free book and entry into the contest because we just don’t have the extra $ right now to purchase it and I’d love to enter the contest.If I don’t win, I will just use your other book and challenge myself! (but that trip to Maui would be awesome!)-Faith

Hi Tom and Fellow Fat burners,I bought Tom’s e-book several years ago. My first goal was to become healthy and change my body image which had always been very negative.I started about three years ago, got into amazing shape and was successful as I was no longer a slave to the scale. Then my life began to fall apart. My then 3 almost 4 year old son was diagnosed with autism and my husband lost his job. I had to return to work but because I also teach my children at home, had to work nights. The combined stresses, lack of sleep and general depression meant I did not look after myself. My daughter has also suffered and she feels at 11 that giving up is the best way to deal with the hard things in life.Why must I transform my body this summer? Because I need both the physical and mental attitude adjustment which will allow me to go for the long haul with my life. There are many things which i cannot control and probably will not change: My son will always have autism but he is making amazing progress. He works hard every day and that inspires me to transform myself.My daughter needs to see me doing hard things, not giving up.When I am in good physical shape, my mental state is also strong and I have the energy to care for my family.For me this challenge is not about winning a competition (I am a fairly private person and so have not entered photographs of myself) but about having some accountability other than myself.I like Tom’s motto: Train hard and expect results!

I was an athlete when I was younger. I was blessed with natural ability and never had to work very hard to be successful. I’m over 50 now and consequently, never having to work at it has put me at 275, 70 pounds heavier than when I was in my prime. In spite of every piece of evidence that Cheetos and doughnuts are bad for your fitness and health, I’ve continued to think that I can eat whatever I want and then turn it on and be that athlete again whenever I wanted. Kind of like an alcoholic saying he can stop drinking whenever he chooses. If I don’t start now, the only chance I may have to lose weight is when I’m bench pressing 6 feet of dirt. I’ve committed to this and am ready to start.

The time has come for me to, once and for all, reclaim my body.I have my 30 year high school reunion this fall so the timing of this summer challenge couldn’t be better.I’ve been watching the posts on the inner circle and everyone seems to say that Tom’s nutrition and exercise program really work and make all the difference.I’ve owned the BFFM ebook for 4 years and thought it was not applicable to me – ‘i can’t eat that much and end up with the body i want’, ‘i’m not a body builder type person and the program is really for them’, etc…But I’ve realized through unsuccessful attempts at weight loss on my own and through weight watchers, that calories are not all that matter…i’ve tried the WW points system and know how many points all of my favorite candies and junk food are and can stick to my 21 points eating only junk food all day. And then I wonder why I am not losing any weight or am in fact gaining? I finally realized that 21 points of junk food does not equal 21 points of quality nutrient rich foods/calories. I do also eat super healthy foods. I love most vegetables and egg whites are my favorite protein. I can eat them every day!Now is the time to end my junk food ways and start a new life of eating real healthy food and 5 small meals a day consistently for the first time in my life. Honestly, I think i was born addicted to sugar. It is genetic…I remember when my son was 1 year old and in his crib. My mom was visiting and slept in his room. She couldn’t believe it when he stood up in the crib and said ‘lollipop’.My workout habits have been great for the past 2 years, so I know it’s the nutrition that will make the difference!I am committed to this challenge!

Having just ended my 30 year marriage I have a new start in my life, and want to have the energy and stamina to enjoy it!

Hi Everyone,OK..We’re INTO ACTION! ALWAYS ACTION! Today was the second day of serious behavior modification (for those who didn’t read my last post, that means I’m trying to stop eating Oreos…is there a 12-step program for THAT, too?)Seriously, eating better and working out with purpose!I’m looking forward to the inevitable change that results from getting into action!Good luck to everyone on your journey!

Why is entering the Summer Challenge important to me……I’ll be pushing 50 and have lost/gained weight off and on for quite a few years. As Tom has mentioned….other challenges focuss just on the scale numbers and not anything else so yeah, I’ve been a skinny fat person for quite some time. Sure the scale shows low numbers but the body fat percentage tells a different story.So since this is 98 days of total commitment which will lead to not only a change in body composition but also a life style change. If I can do it for 98 days then I can apply the Burn the Fat Program indefinately to truly transform my whole way of thinking permanently. That’s what I’m hoping for…..a life style change.

I suppose that the number one reason for taking this challenge is that I would like to be able to fully enjoy my life for years to come. I’m 47 with 4 children who my wife and I keep very active in various sports. However, I find little time to commit to keeping myself healthy for the years to come when our children have moved on. Our youngest is only 8 so I find that it is necessary that I commit more time for myself to fully enjoy the kids now, but also for my wife and I’s future.Also, and probably more importantly, my health is directly related to my income as I own a small business in which I do manual labor. So my health is completely tied in to my ability to provide for my family.I hope that my entering this challenge, I will better be able to plan for and have a healthy and fulfilling life both for and with my family.

Tom, I MUST enter this contest for my health and my sanity. I am 48 years old, almost 50, I have studied health, nutrition and workout plans for the last 30 years. I can get to the point where I look pretty good dressed, but put that bikini on and it just isn’t a pleasant sight. Then I “fall off the wagon”. This challange will motivate me to finish what I have started so many times. I AM GOING TO BE IN THE BEST SHAPE OF MY LIFE AT 50. Then all I have to do is maintain and take care of myself to keep strong and healthy for the other half of my life!!

I must do this 98 day challenge for my family and my wifes family. Both sides are heavy and alot of illness due to overweight. As a matter of fact I lost my younger brother to cardiac failure related to weight, “its on his death certificate that way”. He was almost 43. Both sides of the family like to blame their weight and health issues on genetics. I must be the one to set the example and prove that the only thing everyone has in common is a need for a lifestyle change. About a year ago, my doctor flat out told me, “your weight is obese, you have high blood pressure, high choleterol, high triglycerides, high blood sugar, and its all related to your weight and lifestyle. He said, quote ” for a young man of 47, your fairly messed up.”Long story short, I joined a gym, purchased BFFM and went to work. In the past yr I have lost nearly 50 lbs, gained lean muscle and have corrected all the above heath issues. Ya, all the numbers are normal, wow. Im not stopping now for nothing. This 98 day challenge is an absolute must, to help me get in such good shape that my family members might put down the spoon and ask, how did you do that. I have a burning passion to transform my fittness and health, and an even larger passion to help any and all family members, when they realize, weight and weight related health issues are a result of choices they make, not a genetic inheratence.One thing I did learn in the past year is that the principles involved in loosing body fat are simple, but their not easy.

I turned 30 today and I have NEVER been my goal weight! I MUST get into the shape the want NOW because I am so close and yet so far. I was overweight for about 20 years of my life and now have to finish the job and finally reach my goal after 3 hard years of trying. I MUST DO IT NOW!

I am so excited to start the “Long Burn” Contest. I already lost 40 lbs following the advice of the book. I am in the process of transforming my body. I’m ready to get ripped.

I am a doctor, and a majority of my patients are obese. I felt like a hypocrite when I was telling my patients that they needed to lose weight when I was 40 lbs overweight. Enough was enough. On Jan 1, 2010, I made a full commitment to lose the weight. Three months later with the advice from “Burn the Fat, Feed the Muscle”, I successfully lost my weight. Now, I am in the mode to transform my body by adding 15 pounds of muscle with less than 10% body fat. I already have inspired many patients to make a true commitment to their health.

Hi Tom,The Burn the Fat 2010 Summer Challenge is arriving at an opportune time. I’m about to complete a workplace fitness challenge and I need to continue the momentum & high intensity workouts I’ve adopted in order to achieve the goals I have for my body, mind & overall well-being. The inspiring photos/stories participants share, your knowledge-filled blog & the standards of accountability (ok, yeah – and the awesome prize potentials too!) will all help keep me on track…motivated towards self-betterment & achievement of my goals.I also made a list of pros/cons the other day: Reasons to Join vs. Reasons Not to Join. It became apparent that all the reasons not to join were based in fear. These fears suddenly became reasons I must join. Challenges are fun & obstacles are to be overcome! I look forward to seeing what “I’m (and others are) made of” in the 98 day transformations.Best,Matt

This competition is really making me think about this summer. I’m getting married in October and am determined to be in the best shape of my life for it. I’ve always hated getting my photo taken-but there will be no avoiding it so I’d better just do something about it! I’ve found a dress I love, now I’m just going to get the toned arms I want to go with it.

Transforming my body in the next 98 days is a must, because I need to increase my chances in living a longer and better quality of life. Second, the transformed body will be what it should be. Third, I believe there is a strong correlation between my success physically and my success in the other areas of my life.There are no guarantees that I will be here tomorrow, but the odds of living a long, productive, and quality life here on earth and with my loved increases when I restore my body to what it should be.I am 5 feet and 5 inches tall. I weigh about 180 pounds with 30% body fat. That is 54 pounds of pure body fat. That is wrong, way wrong! I must renew my body to be what it should be. Period.The times I have practiced BFFM methods and principles I have seen results. Not only physically but also in the other areas of my life. First of all, the physical benefits go beyond fat loss and weight loss. Increase in energy, digestion, sleep, rest. Those are all bonuses. Beyond the physical, the benefits spill into other areas. The muscles of discipline used to complete reps keep working in reaching my goals in finance, time management, career, ministry, and other endeavors.In short, I am compelled to change not just my body but my life, to increase my odds in living longer, with the health, physical build, and success God intended me to have.

This for me is a life changing experience, it’s not just about being physically fit this is also about being spiritually and mentally fit – it’s about feeling good about yourself and being happy with who you are.. how you feel on the inside manifests on the outside and being healthy sets an example not just for myself but for my children, .I train 3 times a week and I have had different personal trainers but they did not provide the correct guidance to suit my needs…ie: training to see certain results fat loss and nutrition advise so I purchased The Body Fat Solution, this is an amazing book with fantastic information I feel more motivated to get the results I want…An believe me I want to see results!…an this would be a great opportunity!…

Because if you avoid pain long enough, everything becomes painful.Because instead of body shaping I need landscaping.Because for this I’m leaving a job, a girl-friend* and moving cities.Because I’m not just doing body transformation, I’m doing life transformation.Because it would be nice to see my feet again.*p11 5th elementBecause my written goals say so.

Because I am pissed off !!!!….and I want to make my wife proud.My Dad died overweight at 67…diabetes, heart attack, lung cancer.He had the choice to live a healthy life and not smoke, he chose otherwise.I miss by fishing buddy terribly.He has missed out, in the most important events of my adult life.I just turned 40 and have become a first time Dad four months ago.Quick math tells me I certainly want to be around for my “Baby Kate” much longer than 27 years.My goal is to have Katie’s kids surfing with the coolest and most ripped G-Papa around…..me!!!!ALSO…..I owe my beautiful wife a trip to Hawaii !This time last year we had our tickets booked to the island of 51st dates and made plans to be blowing out a flip-flop at Jimmy B’s February 5 2010. More AWESOME than that though….on February 5th 2010 I was shoveling snow to clear the way for our Baby stroller!!!Tom, thank you for this opportunity. I look forward to meeting the new me in 98 Days.Mahalo Brah,Ian Walterhouse

There is a greater urgency attached to the “must” for me to not just be successful at this challenge but to surpass MUST be done for two compelling reasons.1. To prove to myself that I have the Discipline needed to get lean once and for all.2. Age isn’t never a factor ( I am 45)3. Redemption – Last challenge I was unable to complete due to a back injury.Thanks for another opportunity and for being a wonderful mentor in the fitness industry.

What are the REASONS WHY you want to be in better shape at the end of the summer than you are today?1. I am ready to make a change that will last a lifetime, and what better time to start than through the summer months that will have me ready for any big event in the winter! The time is NOWWhy is transforming your body NOW – in the next 98 days- an absolute MUST for you?1. I am DONE yo-yoing, done with continually looking for the next hot thing, done with always second guessing myself, done with trying something new every few weeks. I want to start NOW and follow through and be consistent, cause the truth is hard work WILL pay off. NOW is the time, no more putting it off, or settling for less.

I bought your e-book about a year and a half ago, read thru the first few pages and promptly went out and joined a weight loss program. 30lbs lighter I looked EXACTLY the way I did before, only smaller. It was tremendously disappointing. Discouraged, the weight slowly crept back on. Six months ago I began working out at the gym. The appearance of definition lines really got me excited. What I had hoped would happen when I “lost weight” was finally appearing in the mirror. My trainer kept saying “80% of what you see on the outside is a reflection of what you put on the inside”. I remembered your book and have been avidly reading ever since. I don’t want to just … weigh less. When my daughter gets married in Jamaica early next year, I want heads to turn.

98 days to 98 years – My Great grandfather lived 98 years and 51 weeks. A long and happy life. I must use the 98 days to honour my body so it will be able to live healthy for 98 or 99 years! My body enables me to participate in life and has protected me from illness. I need to show it the apprecitation it deserves. I need to disgard the self limiting beliefs as this is always my biggest hurdle. There is no real reason that I can not succeed. I need to believe in myself to achieve the results, for I have a wonderful family to support me and maybe even inspire :)

This is great, i am on diabetes drugs and insuling with a host of other metabolic x isease drugs and married to an abusive wife.tony information and encouragement has helped be have the courage to change my life and help me live againcant thank you enoughjoe in pa

I want to get in shape because I’ve been recovering from failed back surgery for two years and want to get my life back and try to go back to work. I know if I lost 50 pounds and strengthened my core I’d be in a lot less pain too. I’m an older worker and I’m scared about trying to rejoin the workforce looking like I do right now. I also want to be able to walk without my thighs rubbing together and being out of breath after a block. That and many other reasons….Veer

After having 4 children and working out religiously I still have a stubborn 10 lbs I want to get rid of. I’ve tried almost everything except diet pills to lose it and it will not seem to budge. Im fixing to turn 40 and I want to feel better about myself for the rest of my life.

I want to bloom like a flower on a Summer’s day… NOT!GIRLS! GIRLS! GIRLS!I want a good looking girlfriend, that‘s why I must!

I have a long-term back injury – a herniated disk – and the extra 70 pounds I carry around just make the pain worse. I have difficulty moving around, doing things around the house, I have difficulty being ME. That’s my “MUST” – I really want to be ME again.

Hi, I am a single mom, wieght 338pounds, 34years old, I am tired of always being tired, of always tinking of excuses not to play with my 2 boys 4 and 6 years old. I have tried everething, every dieet I know by heart, I hate exercise! But I have realised that if I want to be around to see my kids grow up I have to change the way I think, the way I eat and the way I do. Unless you move, you will stay exactly where you are, you are in ten years time exactly what you do now, unless you change, nothing around you will change. I am not in it for the prize, that would be great to win but my main prize is ading a few years to my health and to the time with my kids.

I have already started transforming my body. I am 5’10 and went from 195 lbs in 12/2009 to 170 lbs and 14% body fat in 03/2010. However, I have plateaued. I can not break past 14%. I am a single father of two kids and need to show them how to live a healthy life and that anything can be accomplished if you set your mind to it.

In this past year I have gone from not being able to run a 1/4 mile to being able to “run” a 1/2 marathon. I’ll be participating in my third 1/2 marathon in September and want to be able to make it special. Even though I have lost 20 pounds in past year I have 30 to go. I’ve added weight lifting in past 2 months to my exercise regiment and it has helped in all the other things I do. I have a grandchild living with me and I want to be able to keep up with the little guy, and he is sure quick.

I’ve adopted a new “If not now, when?” mentality, and this summer is here now, and it’s time for me to get busy. I love BFFM–the information is honest, and the results are undeniable!

I’m tired of carrying around the extra 100 pounds. It neds to go and many of my aches and pains will go with it. Menopause has not been nice to me!!!!

Tom,I am a 37 year old male. I have maintained a decent work out regime since I was 18 but I Have gained some fat over the past year due to a sinus surgery and a bad cold season. I was told last year I have osteoarthritis last year by my Dr. due to early knee injuries from sports. I have tore my right pectoral tendon and have recovered. I currently weigh 195 and would like to get down to 175 to carry less mass on my frame. I have incorporated the help of a personal trainer to get an unbaised pair of eyes on my physique. I have worked with him for a month now and have received a better perspective on my lifting form but other than that I am doing what I already know. My question is what are your thoughts on personal trainers?

In the past I’ve used getting pregnant, look better in swimsuit, health etc. to motivate me to get in shape but they only helped a little.I had gotten to point where I was disgusted with what I saw in mirror and I started making slow changes and semi-realistic goals but I noticed my goals were tied to the number on scale or a number in my head.I want to take this challenge because somehow I need to reframe my fitness goals to match transformation not a number. I need to understand my body better, how it works, what it needs if I’m going to have a realistic image of what I can achieve and where i need to set my priorities.This summer is the right time. I’m off from work and if i can make these changes I will be set once school starts up again.Warmest regards and thank you.

Tom,I’m 51 and quit smoking 9 months ago. I put on 20 pounds in within 6 weeks of quitting. I am on a mission to go from my heaviest ever weight of 208lbs to a respectable 170. That should be a good spot at 5’10”. I am an avid sculler and have logged over 200,000 meters on the erg month to date. I have dropped 10 pounds in the last 2 months and hope to be in the 170’s by the end of summer—doing it the right way. I get most of my aerobic work on the erg along with some AT as well. I also lift weights to improve my core strength and also specifically target those muscles which are not actively recruited by rowing. Thank you for the wonderful articles and support.Jay

This is THE time to get back in shape because……..1. at 48, I am the oldest woman in my soccer league and last week had to play goal half the game since I was winded2. turning 50 is just 22 months away, and I am going to be fabulous at 503. I am currently not setting a good example for my children4. I want to be able to do anything I want to do in my later years, so now is the time to start taking better care of myself

TomI have started on a mission since last fall when I realized 50 was just beyond the corner ( I turned 50 in March). I was skinny fat then – low muscle mass and too much extra around the tummy – typical desk riding executive. I have decided that before I turn 51 I am gonna get into the best shape of my life – when someone says I have a great physique for a man my age I want to be able to say “I have a great physique for a man HALF my age ! “To that end – I have started on a weightlifting and cardio program to drive me to that goal. At present, I have gained more than 10 lbs while stayin in the same size jeans – but those jeans are still a lot bigger around the waist then I want them to be. My goal is to take 3-4” off my gut and add as many to my chest – trimming those ABS is gonna bring out the sixpack that hides there – get rid of the saddlebags over my kidneys and give me that V-shape I always wanted.I was on the verge of cholesterol meds, blood pressure meds and meds to reduce my resting heartrate. Now my cholesterol is good, my blood pressure is good and my resting heart has dropped 15 points. I am thrilled at the health benefits for me and the effect my working out so hard has had on my three children. It motivates me to be all I can be – and your newsletter serves as a daily motivation as well !

I’m getting married on July 16, 2010… Still need to lose 6 to 8 pounds before then!!! Struggling with the over 40 metabolism drop… Not to mention my son’s baseball schedule, work, etc. Trying to fit in workouts when I can… I know I can do it, though!

i already know that exercise & muscle-building are the cures for pretty much everything. having surgery was great, but it was really the exercise that cured my bum knee. once i was able to get up & around again i joined a gym and realized how bad i had been feeling. feeling great was such a surprise! exercise has given me so much energy and i feel great all the time now. in my 40’s i’m in the best shape ever.not every bum knee can turn out like this, but every couch potato can feel infinitely better through exercise. 100% guaranteed.now i’m on a plateau and have a really hard time losing the last few pounds. i must enter now to break through the last barriers!

I am going to transform my body and I am determined to see my goal to its end, a promise I made to myself before the onset of my 27th birthday in August. In essence, it’s because I believe in what Tom once said, to “walk the walk”. I am health conscious, and as a holistic nutritional consultant, my physique must resemble what I preach. Also, I am going to run the marathon in October, so the Burn the Fat Challenge is a definite must!

“. . .most people won’t change until the pain of staying the same becomes greater than the pain of changing.” In all of the b.s. and bro-science dropped into the fitness industry, THAT is the truest statement I’ve ever read. I’ve spent the last few years saying “I should, I should,” because I don’t want to end up like my skinny-fat mother – with a shut-down pancreas and taking insulin shots; because I don’t want to end up like my heart-disease addled father. I keep saying “I should” develop healthy habits instead of insane, stringent fasts and starvation and mono-food diets. I am now at a place where I *must* make changes that stick because I’m miserable and becoming physically unable to keep up with the sports that my husband and I used to share together (surfing, snowboarding). I *must* make the changes because I’m exhausted and tired of feeling sorry for myself; I’m tired of feeling frustrated and I’m tired of feeling defeated. The pain of me turning into all of the things I DON’T want to be is finally making me say “I must” instead of “I should.” (Was that too many words?)

My reason for wanting to be in better shape this summer is that i promised myself i would do it last summer, and the summer before and the summer before that!I know I MUST do it THIS summer or that summer will NEVER come for me!I MUST transform my body because I am NOT the person in front of me! I am better than this and the only way i can absolutley prove that, to others as well as myself, is to get myself into the shape i know I should be, present myself as the person I know I am.

I have been receiving Burn the Fat e-newletters for about 2 months and get so pumped up when I read them……then I procrastinate. I will be turning 50 in July, single mother that has raised two beautiful daughters and continue nursing 14 yo twin sons. They are athletes, so they keep me motivated but lately I’ve been feeling so, so tired and I am so, so tired of sounding lame. I am going to do this for ME because I want to live the rest of my life feeling healthy, young and Not Tired. I have strong genes in my family, my mother is 87 yo and still drives. goes shopping and loves to hang out with the kids. I want to live that life.I’ve got to say, I was crying from reading all the blog entries and encouraging stories. May we all desire to live a healthy and happy life. God bless us all!!

My desire to take this challenge seriously comes as a result of noticing that if I’m determined and committed in my fitness and nutrition I am also determined and committed in many other areas of my life. I am more productive at work and in relationships when I’m dedicated to my physical well-being. I’ve always been athletic but I’ve never worked hard enough on the nutrition part of my life to really see the results that I would like to see (like my abs!). As I’ve entered my 30’s I really desire to be in the best shape of my life and I’m ready to do what it takes to get there!

I must transform my body because I don’t just want to exist anymore, I want to live–and live a healthy and active lifestyle. I’m 30 years old and up until last year, I was 90 lbs overweight. I was unhealthy, unmotivated, experiencing one health challenge after the next (iron deficiency, PCOS, back pain). All was a result of my obesity. Life was flying right by and I couldn’t keep up. My doctor suggested bariatric surgery, but something in me just wouldn’t let me do it. Strangely, I didn’t want a quick fix to my life-long problem. I wanted a more natural fix and one that would help me learn to be less destructive. Last year, I decided to get serious. I changed my diet and started exercising. To date I’ve lost 45 lbs. It’s been a slow and difficult process, but one I wouldn’t change for anything in the world. I still have another 40-45 lbs to lose and am having trouble getting to that next level, but I’ committed.

Transforming my body is not only important to me but it is something i HAVE to do. I have had a difficult few years and i tend to eat(and waaay over eat) to ease the pain. Food is my comfort.If it wernt for my two small children, i dont know if i would have the courage and motivation to make a change. But i DO have two amazingly beautiful children who need me and deserve a healthy happy mommy who is a good role model. I know that along with obesity comes many health risks and it would be selfish of me stay on the same path i am on. Here’s to a new me!

The reasons why: I did stop at chapter one, and wrote down my goals. I am stronger, I am leaner, I have single digit body fat. I have an eight pack, not just a six pack.98 Days will put me looking my best when I next see my wife when I come back from working in Iraq.

I MUST transform my body this summer. Because NOW is the time to make a change. When I accomplish this, it will motivate me to accomplish my other life goals. I will be an example to my future children. I will live a healthier lifestyle.

I want to be in the best shape of my life this summer because I want to motivate others so that they know that they can do it as well. Also, I am getting married in september and I want to be in great shape for myself and for my wife to be on one of the most important days of our lives.

Tony,I’ve already sent my comments on Sunday and today, I decided to read some of the comments post. It’s amazing how you gave the opportunity to many people to put in words what they are going through and the hope they have in their hearts and true desire to change something. I’m sure, starting with their bodies is a great start.I think is a very nice way of making difference in people’s life.CheersMia

HI Tom, I have to transform my body, I have to at least try. I am disabled , I have a metabolic problem (simular to cushing’s syndrome) and every summer I say to myself, this is the summer that I am going to beat this. but I just don’t have the money to join a health club, or buy your book.Of course I am under the care of Doctors, and they do try to help, but just combating the symptoms doesn’t cure the illness. However they are always pleased to hear that I am striving to cure through diet and exercise.I want to try to ride a bike, but my family just laughs at me. No matter how much I am motivated, I can’t find my way to make this horrible and ugly stomach go away. I really do realize that when people are disabled ( I have trouble with my feet and hands ) that exercise is difficult. but once I was a beautiful, athletic woman, and now I am humpty dumpty. so , my goal is just to get healthy, maybe I’ll never be beautiful again, but at least I can be healthier than I am, that is of course, with your help.

Hi Tom,Last year after The Body fat solution came out, I used your advice and got into the best shape of my life. Since the beginning of 2010 I have experienced a little “creep” – about 10 lbs worth. So I am re – committing to your program to loose that 10 lbs by July 1st. I will then maintain my weight and muscle by planning my workouts and meals. I also was too flexible with free meals so I am going to track those too and be way more strict about indulging. I will do this to look great and to be able to play and keep up with my sons. I also figure the more I feel like hanging out in a bikini, the fewer clothes I need to buy – so its like a savings plan too!!

Hi, My friend has used your training book and looks great. I would like to loos weight to gain confidence and be more happy within myself. I have been bullied at work for 3 years to the point of leaving my job. I am determined to loss weight and learn to love myself and be more happy and with your help I think I will get there. Thank You

What are the REASONS WHY you want to be in better shape at the end of the summer than you are today?I OWE IT TO MYSELF & MY FAMILY..I am 53 this July 5th,and have 2 lovely sons aged 23 & 25. I want to be healthy for myself, & for them to be proud of me! I had bunion/metatarsal surgery Jan 20 2010 & couldnt do treadmill or power walks for 3.5 months–the first time I couldnt exercise since my arthroscopic surgery 23 years ago. Ive started this past month & I WANT TO DO IT RIGHT & FOR IT TO LAST!! I currently am 100 Kgs & have never been this much before in my life, even dur my pregnancies–it irks me when Ive always exercised or done power walks, do aqua aerobics since ’92, swim almost year round at the beach (Apr 1-Dec 1). After 10 years, my allergic asthma triggered in April, I had to go on cortisone (medrol) for 15 days & thats going to be in my system for 6 months–But NOTHING CAN STOP MY WILL TO FIGHT FOR A HEALTHIER BODY! This would be a God-send!!Why is transforming my body now-in the next 98 days- an absolute must for me?My dad reached a healthy 85 & had never been in a hospital nor took any meds–in his first & only admittance, he died when a doctor gave him too much anesthetic for a simple spinal tap–docs never bothered to ask if hed ever been anesthetized or hospitalized before. I was 16 then. I aspire to his ideals & want a healthy life for me too! Now that I am able to exercise again after my surgery, I WANT TO DO IT RIGHT! THIS IS MY TIME TO SHINE! Espec since I have to operate my other foot in Jan 2011.

I live up here in Canada and I cant not wait to spend my summer running around camping by the lakes and rivers in a bathing suit and feel good about myself. I have already lost 20 pounds and Im sure I am capable of losing another!I hope everyone else is having as much luck and joy out of it as I am

I am looking forward to losing wieght over the summer for many reasons. When I am at my ideal weight I am not depressed, I have energy, I can keep up with my children, and I feel great!!! I am 70 pounds over weight right now. I am now on medication for insulin resistance. Heart problems also run in my family and it makes me so nervous. I want to get healthy so I can live and raise my children. I want to win that vacation to Hawaii and look great as I walk down the beach. I have not been in a bathing suit in almost 10 years!!!That would the greatest feeling in the world to be able to wear a swimming suit and swim with my children.

Getting in shape this summer is a priority and responsiblility for me because this summer i cant afford to be rediculosly hot and sweaty under all this fat and cant afford to be so tired from carrying it around. This summer i want to be full of energy and comfortable so that i can have fun and skateboard more and use the time away from school to get better. But most of all i dont want to spend another summer (my last at that) being depressed from being plump and always being angry at myself for makeing myself that way. I MUST CHANGE MY BODY THIS SUMMER BEFORE IT DRIVES ME CRAZY!

Why do I want to be in better shape by the end of the summer? This is a great start but I want to be in better shape for the rest of my life. I work in the healthcare industry and have a front row seat for the problems, pain, and chronic misery that comes from being obese or out of shape or both. I have lost just over 60 lbs this year but I fear that a good chunk of it may have been muscle. I do look skinnier but I feel weaker and I MUST start now to add to my muscle mass to maintain my weight loss. Love the contest idea so if I’m not lucky enough to win the drawing, I’ll just buy the ebook (I’ve been procrastinating this purchase for far too long) and join the contest that way. Thanks for the inspiration.

Hi Tom,I’ve been reading your blog and emails for over a year now, and I really enjoy the information you provide.The reason I want to be in better shape at the end of the summer is because I’ve never been in good shape…..I want to feel and look my best and have my body in the best possible form as I make the journey in to the next stage of my life. I feel that the challenge is just what I need to kick start the process….and who wouldn’t like to win a trip to Hawaii!!Transforming my body in the next 98 days would take me up to my birthday in September, which I’m about to turn 30. I”ve been saying for the last few years that I’d like to get to my ideal weight and be healthier by the time I’m 30 and that date is fast approaching….I would love to take part in your challenge.Thank you for your time.Holly

I have spent 20 years by now struggling with my obesity and I think it’s pretty much enough for me. I started this roller coaster at 19 with 143 pounds, now I am 42 and 255… I am of good health by nature (Thank God!), but lately started to get mini-bells from here and there of my bosy. So what I am waiting for? When it turns to bad? I still can easily do cardio as much as 5 km of speed walking a day and aquagym 3 times a week, I guess I must use this ability. At this age I guess it is my last chance to start weight training without harming myself, so I can’t postpone it.Eating much has always been the issue.My lower body is so large that – yes, Tom! -I barely fit in the seat in some planes, so far I feel ok in Airbus’es but the old planes are the real torture. I love travelling so it becomes crucial!I have had a lot of miserable personal life and again, 42 is still a fair age to have something better – provided I get a better figure first.That’s why now is the time I MUST lose those 50% of me that consist of pure fat and regain my true self!

Hi Tom :)I just want to start by saying that you are an amazing person, your passion and dedication for the fitness industry is inspirational. Whenever I read one of your newsletters or emails I know that I am getting quality useful information from a true expert. In my eyes you are an expert because you really live what you teach and there is nothing better than getting advice from someone who can back it up with real life results.Thanks for your time and effort

I always enjoy a challenge however I see this challenge as an opportunity to change my life. While I believe I am in good physical condition, but with extra fat pounds, I drink too much.By committing to 98 days of alcohol free living & training, I believe I can rid myself of the habit and self conflicting damage I have done to myself for the last 10 years.Not only am I committing to myself and my family, but having a team and accountability partners can only make my quest a successful one!

It’s time to quit dreaming about this, and make it a reality. I’m 46, and I want in control of how I look, how I feel, and what I’m able to do. I don’t want to wear a t-shirt in the swimming pool any longer because I’m self-conscious of my waiste. I want to be able to continue to be involved in my children’s (5 of them) sports, especially now that some of them are reaching an age where I can compete with them. As well, our family needs to eat and exercise better.Most of all, I want to be pleased with the way I look and how I feel. I purchased Tom’s BTFFTM e-book years ago, and have procrastinated ever since. I believed what I read, but I wasn’t able to motivate myself. So, Tom’s pumped about the contest, and it sounds like 2,000+ other people are too, me included. Of course, the grand prize in this contest is a great incentive, but also realizing that, in 3 months, I can finally bring my health to the level that I’ve always wanted it to be is the key.

Why this Challenge is important to me :1. To be the best I can be and reach my potential2. To be respectful of my health, nourishing my body to the highest degree with quality nutrition3. To give my physical self the greatest respect4. To create a stronger and leaner body5. To become fully at home in my body and stay in this place.6. To loose the limiting beliefs I carry7. To let go of the negative `body` thoughts8. To create greater muscle definition.9. To achieve greater motivation, higher aspirations and more positivity that I can reach my goals.10.To stand `Proud`Laara

i have read a number of fat burning, muscle increasing programmes over the last few weeks but i’m very interested in yours. i suffer quite badly with depression, which has affected me and kept me from working for 3 years. it affects my motivation and as a result i have gained nearly 50 pounds. my bmi is now 31 with body fat at approx 40% according to a hand held monitor i splashed out on to help motivate me. i was trying hard but ended up struggling as the depression has gripped me again. i wouldn’t be writing on this if i didn’t think it would give me a boost in both my mental health and my motivation in order to get slim and above all, healthy. i enjoy reading your news letters as they are all research based which is something i understand. essentially i need the help that your programme can give. thanks tom. :)

I was just diagnosed with type 2 Diabetes. I will turn 64 this year and retire in 2011 and weight and yo-yo dieting has always been a problem for me. I feel like this is my last chance. I want to be around to see my grandkids grow up and be able to keep up with them. I hope that your plan is one that will work for someone my age and that it is not too late. There is lots of conflicting information about the best diet for diabetes. I know that exercise is an important part of what I need to do. I am about 40 lbs overweight and very out of shape. I used to play tennis and was active and I know I can get back to being more active but not sure I can take off the weight and shrink my waist size at my age. I hope the information that you can provide will work for me.

I have always been active and relatively fit, until now that is. After a year and a half of intense joint pain and swelling because of an autoimmune disorder I am finally on the right combination of immune suppressant meds (no steriods or enhancement drugs at all) so that I can function pain free – but only after gaining 30 pounds because of lack of mobility and no doubt losing lean muscle! I am 49 this summer and want to make it to the big 50 in spectacular shape. What better motivation than this contest? I also have an 11 year old daughter to whom I want to be a role model as well as giving myself the healthy edge to be around for her for years to come. I MUST do it this summer because I am not getting any younger and it is not going to get any easier and I am pain free. Let’s make hay while the sun shines!!!

I’m tired of seeing my body get worse as I get older. I’ve tried working out sporadically over the years but just ended up floundering around not truely knowing what I was doing other than just working out. Now that a proven plan has been laid out before me I can see where I erred in so many of my ways. I feel with this knowledge I can finally achieve the results I worked so hard for but never reached in the past. And what better environment to do it in than the Transformation Challenge! LET’S DO IT!!!

Why I started working out more and better? Why I gave up (most ;) of my chocolate-addiction for water and fresh vegetables?Why I simply MUST continue to work out and eat well? (and enjoy both while I’m at it!)Gah, Plenty of reasons!I could start with summing up all of the physical advantages; feeling and looking better, healthier, more fit and so on.I could say things about wanting to look good and feel more attractive:In our little rainy country (the Netherlands), there’s about two months with days we can spend at the beach for swimming, tanning and all those things. Those few days, I want to be able to play volleyball at the beach with my little brother *without* worrying about how I look in bikini.I just want to have fun and play!I want to be able to actually wear T-shirts and shorts without feeling ashamed for how I look!I want to feel attractive, confident.I want to be fit, healthy and in shape.All very true reasons, and they might even be true for the most of us.But what really kept me motivated is my younger sister.She’s suffering from severe depressions, having episodes in which she hates herself intensely.We as a family, of course tried to help her, along with the line of doctors and prescriptions by providing her with positive attention, positive examples – well, by being a safe and welcoming environment.One of the things I always said to her, was that she was worth of being loved. Like every one else, she was worthy or respect, love and attention. “You are worth it!” I would say, over and over again. And at times, she listened.I wondered however how well *I* listened to my own advice. I hate wearing sleeve-less shirts. I barely ever dared to put on shorts and even when I did, God forbid even people looked at me. … *I* did not love myself!So, what about the ‘practice what you preach’ then, hm? I wondered. How could I ever convince my sister that everyone should and could feel good about him- or herself whilst I myself did not even feel good about myself?About two years ago, I started my practice-what-you-preach. In an all-woman’s gym. No shorts. Long jackets. But I started.No longer would I reach for chocolate when things got tough – heck, if I loved myself, I would eat the stuff when I *wanted* to, not when I could not deal with other things. When I wanted to learn how to love myself, I should give myself the attention I deserved. Let things go by working out, feeling better about myself as I challenged myself in and outside of the gym.Eat foods that tasted nice *and* were healthy. Yes people, I actually found out that those two weren’t mutually exclusive! :PI might have made a lot of the beginner-mistakes, from crash-dieting to too much cardio and no weight-training, from an unhealthy obsession with weight to emo-eating when it didn’t go the way I want, but here I am.Doing dead-lifts, doing squats and enjoying sour muscles afterwards.I even wear sleeveless tops!(The shorts are still being one of the things that I am working on, but I am getting there. Slowly, but surely. :))So, that’s why I started to work out. Practice what you preach and preach what you practice!That, and a zillion other reasons keep me motivated, but I only recently realized them.So thanks, mister Venuto, for making me write down those motivations. Thanks for helping me go just that bit harder!Cheers,A preachin’ and *finally* practicing Dutchie :)

It’s been a crappy year for me. My elderly mother developed dementia, my father has heart and circulatory issues, my marriage went thru an extended bad patch, I am dealing with 2 teens with ADD, and I took a demanding supervisory job at work. It’s all been too much for me and I let my physical and emotional self go. I am tired of being tired and looking and feeling fat and blah! I want to get back to my healthy, strong best again in time for my 50th birthday. It’s time for me to take care of me so that I can be better for others and myself.It’s an absolute must for me to do this in 98 days so that I can break through to the next level of my life. I want those years of 50+ to be my very best. I can’t live my best life and be the person my family needs if I am not in great physical and emotional shape. Who wants to just go through the motiions? I want to thrive!

I have reached my bottom of how I look and feel. I have never felt so uncomfortable in all my life. I am 54 years old. 10 years ago I was 120 pounds and now I am 155 pounds. I have a hard time breathing and it doesn’t matter how healthy there is no food that gives me sustained energy as I am tired and irritable for the most part of the day. When I sleep I do not feel rested in the morning. I eat healthy and no junk food (I don’t understand it) I am still putting it on and now it is flab (there is nothing worse than flab.I know I have to eat to lose weight, I am usually eating a little bit every 2 hours up until about 4 pmNothing fits and I don’t like to go shopping because nothing fits. I have clothes from size 3 to large. My stomach hangs over and my breasts go under my arms.I have bought a punching bag, leg exerciser machine, and have started doing funersize again (dancing)I am hoping this will work for me, I know I have burned the fat with dancing before

I must transform my body this summer because I need to show my children (and myself) that any goal is attainable through hard work, perseverance and belief in yourself.For years I have tried to be a good example to them of healthy living and teach them the importance of making good food choices and daily activity. However, my personal struggles to achieve the body of my dreams continue to haunt me and I know that my choices, my lack of confidence, my vices will affect my little ones later on in their lives. As a parent, I want to give my kids the tools they need to succeed at everything in life. I truly believe that by transforming my body this summer they will learn the value of hard work, the value of accountability, the value of self confidence and self-love. I have to transform my body this summer because I want to be the hero that my children already see living inside of me.

Why I started working out more and better? Why I gave up (most ;) of my chocolate-addiction for water and fresh vegetables?Why I simply MUST continue to work out and eat well? (and enjoy both while I’m at it!)Gah, Plenty of reasons!I could start with summing up all of the physical advantages; feeling and looking better, healthier, more fit and so on.I could say things about wanting to look good and feel more attractive:In our little rainy country (the Netherlands), there’s about two months with days we can spend at the beach for swimming, tanning and all those things. Those few days, I want to be able to play volleyball at the beach with my little brother *without* worrying about how I look in bikini.I just want to have fun and play!I want to be able to actually wear T-shirts and shorts without feeling ashamed for how I look!I want to feel attractive, confident.I want to be fit, healthy and in shape.All very true reasons, and they might even be true for the most of us.But what really kept me motivated is my younger sister.She’s suffering from severe depressions, having episodes in which she hates herself intensely.We as a family, of course tried to help her, along with the line of doctors and prescriptions by providing her with positive attention, positive examples – well, by being a safe and welcoming environment.One of the things I always said to her, was that she was worth of being loved. Like every one else, she was worthy or respect, love and attention. “You are worth it!” I would say, over and over again. And at times, she listened.I wondered however how well *I* listened to my own advice. I hate wearing sleeve-less shirts. I barely ever dared to put on shorts and even when I did, God forbid even people looked at me. … *I* did not love myself!So, what about the ‘practice what you preach’ then, hm? I wondered. How could I ever convince my sister that everyone should and could feel good about him- or herself whilst I myself did not even feel good about myself?About two years ago, I started my practice-what-you-preach. In an all-woman’s gym. No shorts. Long jackets. But I started.No longer would I reach for chocolate when things got tough – heck, if I loved myself, I would eat the stuff when I *wanted* to, not when I could not deal with other things. When I wanted to learn how to love myself, I should give myself the attention I deserved. Let things go by working out, feeling better about myself as I challenged myself in and outside of the gym.Eat foods that tasted nice *and* were healthy. Yes people, I actually found out that those two weren’t mutually exclusive! :PI might have made a lot of the beginner-mistakes, from crash-dieting to too much cardio and no weight-training, from an unhealthy obsession with weight to emo-eating when it didn’t go the way I want, but here I am.Doing dead-lifts, doing squats and enjoying sour muscles afterwards.I even wear sleeveless tops!(The shorts are still being one of the things that I am working on, but I am getting there. Slowly, but surely. :))So, that’s why I started to work out. Practice what you preach and preach what you practice!That, and a zillion other reasons keep me motivated, but I only recently realized them.So thanks, mister Venuto, for making me write down those motivations. Thanks for helping me go just that bit harder!

I MUST achieve because I CAN achieve a fit healthy body. I really CAN! I didn’t always believe that. Other people could, but me? After reading BFFM, following the program and getting in the best shape of my life, I know once and for all; I CAN!!! I won’t let genetics dictate for me my health and well being. It’s in my control. I understand that now and want my children to understand it as well. I MUST lead by example.

I’m just sick and tired of being sick and tired. I’m tired of not being able to “comfortably” wear short sleeves, of feeling self conscious in certain outfits, of talking about my weight, and I’m tired of being the biggest of my friends – size 16. I’m ready to get married and meet my sweet, and I think WE deserve the best me possible. And finally, under all this is a great, shapely, curvy body that I am ready to see again. I’m tired of being out of control. I’m ready to set a goal and stick to it.

Why MUST I get into shape, and burn my fat this summer? So many reasons – I can’t stand to look at myself, my clothes don’t fit, and I can’t afford to buy bigger ones, I don’t want to be unhealthy anymore. Common enough story!But there are two other big factors for me at the moment.Firstly – I’m in the Military. I serve in the National Guard, and while you can sometimes get away with regular clothes if you are a little big – uniforms are rather unforgiving. I barely passed my recent weigh in and fitness test (this from a girl who was teased for being “Anorexic” at school because I was so skinny) – I was horrified!Secondly (and this is all tied together!) I’m from Australia, I’m turning 40 in January, and I wanted to go home for Christmas. How can I let my family and friends back in Oz see me like this? Simple, I just can’t. I want to be fit and fab at 40, not sick and flab.So I MUST make this happen. Even without the contest, I am motivated – but with it – you’d better believe I’m going to do it!!!

Because I want to inspire those around me with a beautiful healthy body. Because when I am lean and healthy I radiate positivity and it’s infectious!Because I owe it to myself.Because when I start to eat right and train right everything else in my life becomes in flow.Because health is happiness, and I’m here to spread the happiness bug!

I have never really lost weight before, just slowly gained over the past 20 years. I exercise all the time, but never stick with any healthy eating plan that could help me reach my goal of being healthy. My son is 17 years old now and I have never gone to a water park with him due to my weight. He also is a recommended black belt in taekwondo and would love for me to join so he could teach me. I hesitate because I can’t imagine myself in a white uniform with a belt! gasp! So this is the summer that I want to become healthier. For me and for my son.

I really appreciate the teachings on BFFM. I have already put it into practice. I want to be in a good shape for a woman in her early fourties who is single. Not only for Summer, I want to maintain my shape & look fit. It’s not for formality but for health reasons ‘cos health is wealth. Good Shape boosts ego & self image, makes one radiates joy. Moreover, u feel good for the compliments u receive for looking trendy.Thanx Tom, for all the lecture.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A “RUT” AND A “GRAVE” IS THE DEPTH OF THE HOLE… I HAVE BEEN FOLLOWING BTF-FTM PROGRAM FOR 6 YEARS AND HAVE LOST OVER 100LBS OF FATAND HAVE NOT BEEN IN BETTER SHAPE SINCE COLLEGE (58Y/O)BUT GENETICS HAS DEALT ME A HAND TO DEAL WITH AND I AM DETERMINED TO GO FORWARD WITH MY HEALTH AND LIFE.AFTER A HEART EPISODE AND TWO STENTS IN MARCH 2010, AND NOW DEPRESSION HAS PRESENETED A SECONDARY THREAT TO MY HEALTH. JUST NOW, THE DOCTOR HAS ALLOWED ME TO RESUME A PRUDENT EXERCISE PROGRAM AND NUTRITIONAL REGIMEN. BFFM.I CAN AND WILL ACCEPT THIS CHALLENGE TO PREVENT ME FROM LAYING DOWN AND GIVING UP. IF I AM NOT PROGRESSING,THEN I AM REGRESSING OR WORSE YET, STAGNATING.I ANXIOUSLY, LOOK FORWARD TO SUCCEEDING WITH ALL MY FELLOW BFFM CHALLENGERS AND RELISH AND ENJOY A HEALTHY AND HAPPY LIFESTYLE OF FITNESS TO THE FUTURE….I WILL WORK ON MY LEG PRESS BECAUSE IT IS GOING TO TAKE 4 BULLIES AND AN ANESTHESIOLOGIST TO CLOSE THE LID ON “MY PINEBOX.”RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTEDDAVE W.

I want to set a good example for my son, by setting an attainable goal, and working hard to achieve it.I will suceed with my weight loss goals.

I have always tried to stay in shape, but this year my resolve has been somewhat less, maybe due to a busy life, and some issues with injuries. I turned 50 last summer and really believe that the health and fitness I have in my fifties will set the stage for my mental wellbeing, health and quality of life from here on out. I have never joined a group effort or competition and think this will be fun and a great motivation. So here’s to the journey in getting to the best shape and health ever!

I want to be in better shape at the end of the summer than I am now because I deserve it. I deserve to be comfortable in my own skin and know that I am in control of who I am. I also want to lose weight for my husband, 4 yr old son, & 2 yr old daughter. They all deserve for me to be happy, confident, energetic, and fit.Making my transformation is a must right now because I am tired of saying that I am going to do it and never following it all the way through. I refuse to let time pass me by any longer. I am determined, capable, and excited for this 98 day, and life long journey to begin!

With tons of excuses I keep telling my self that this is not a good time to get back in shape, just because I think it´s to difficult… but at the same time I´m tired of the lack of self esteem, not wanting to go out, getting dressed, going to the beach/pool, etc. I have been yo-yo dieting for years and it´s about time to stop dieting and change the lifestyle. This is the support I need and the program sounds great. This time I can do it! I want to feel good when I weak up in the morning, feel energized through out the day, feel good about my self, get rid of aches and pains and it would be a great plus to get in those skinny jeans I have had for years :)

What are the REASONS WHY you want to be in better shape at the end of the summer than you are today?I want to feel alive and healthy again. I am tired of dragging my body through each day. It starts from the moment I wake up, from a bad night’s sleep, through a long day on my feet, until I go to bed at night. I have lost 50 pounds in the last 2 years and I feel so much better, but I am still 50-60 pounds overweight. Inside, I feel like a thin person, but my outer persona does not reflect who I am. It is holding me back and I can’t let that happen another summer.Why is transforming your body NOW – in the next 98 days- an absolute MUST for you?Because my weight is killing me and I want to live a long and productive life. But it is not all about the weight. I need to be as healthy as I can be. So much has been given to me, now I have to live and be healthy enough to give some of it back and help others. Yes, I am on “a mission from God!”

I’ve lost 40 pounds since November using BFFM (and bf too, of course). Now I’m ready for the anabolic stage. I want to gain 10 pounds of lean muscle mass and drop the bf until I’ve got the six-pack. And I believe that the support of this site and the bffm program is what will help me get there. It’s worked so far, so why not. Been on the fence, but I think that being part of this contest will put me over the top. Not a bad goal for a 52 year old man, eh? Looking forward to it!Adam

This summer I am going to be in the best shape of my life!!!!!

I am tired of always just reading about how to feel better and get the body I have always desired and am now motivated to actually apply the knowledge that BFFM gave me. I am in my 50’s and while I don’t feel it, I finally understand that tomorrow is too late. I want to be the woman I picture in my head and not the one I see in the mirror.

” A life lived in fear is a life half lived.” I say that to everyone reading and to myself also. I have experienced the benefit of dropping a couple of dress sizes with the priciples in Tom’s Burn the Fat book. I want to continue the journey with my body transformation and hopefully celebrate my hard work in Hawaii with a family member. However, being a member of a public forum makes me feel vulnerable. But, maybe someone can inspire and bring out the best in me and I can cheer them over the finish line too. See you soon Nic

At the age of 40 I found myself in a dead end very stressfull job. I would start my day with a 6:30 a.m. workout out class, just to give myself the energy I needed to make it through the long 10 hour shifts ahead of me. Early one morning during my workout I thought to myself, would’nt it be great to do this for a living, never have to fit another workout into my busy schedule, do something good for my body and emotional state while doing something I absolutely loved. I enrolled in my local College and began taking night courses. After a lot of hard work I wrote the necessary exams, completed the required hours and performed my practical assessment. I now run a small private studio and teach others how to improve their quality of life through health and fitness. I am now 52 and still maintaining a strong healthy lifestyle. If there is one thing I would like to teach my clients it would be not to settle. Confidence Breeds Success and destiny is in our hands

Its always refreshing to come online and read all of the peoples comments who are also becoming motivated by this site, im already in great shape but struggling to get a six pack and this website really pushes me to keep trying and not give up. thanks Tom

Doing and entering this challenge will help prove myself that there are no limits but the ones I put on myself. time to really discipline my eating habits and my training sessions hand in hand with like minded people and professionals.thanks for the help and the opportunity

I MUST do this challenge in order to show myself that I can meet me goals. I MUST shed this last bit of fat and maintain in order to have a healthier back and stronger body. I MUST finish my second half marathon and not have my legs give out at mile 10. Really I MUST prove to myself that I am worthy enough to treat my mind, body and soul with more respect by making it physically and mentally stronger to get me through the last year of my Ph.d. Running, lifting, and eating well has brought out of a depression that being in school and losing a parent put me in. Without realizing my inner strength and personal commitment to a stronger and fitter body I wouldn’t be here so this challenge is just another tool I can use to keep me going. So I MUST do this challenge for me.

I have struuggled with that “sneaky” weight gain for years. I was an athlete in high school, but when I went to college I gained 40 pounds. I would loose it, then find it, then loose it again. Now with 3 kids looking to dad as their role model scares me. On top of all of that, I am a pastor of a small church full of folks looking to me for guidance. I know the Bible says our bodies are the temple of God, and I must do some renovating.

Aloha! This summer I am going to get into the best shape of my life! See you on the beach in Maui!

Over the past few years, I have watched my parents and my husbands parents trying to cope in their 70’s and 80’s. They have never exercised and they did not eat healthy. At their age they cannot get around with ease so they are so limited in what they can do. I do not want to be inactive at any age of my life, so this has made me evaluate my own life and health. If I start now learning to exercise and eat correctly, I can look forward to my later years, knowing I my body can be strong and I can live in health and enjoy my later years.

I’d like to thank you for your website and your newsletters. I’m trying to get down to 6% body fat just as a personal challenge to myself. So far in 8 weeks I’ve lost 14 pounds and am at 9% body fat. Thank you for all the motivation and information.SincerelySteve Spiegel

Time to look and feel great and inspire others as well! I want to do this in the next 98 days – before my next birthday in September.

In 2006 I collapsed for the third time. I was 285 pounds on my almost 5-10 frame, my blood pressure was 185/110, my resting heart rate was 109, my body was so inflamed I could hardly walk up steps and I was diabetic just to round things out nicely.2006 was also the year researchers finally confirmed that insulin resistance is caused by chronic stress of the cell’s endoplasmic reticulum, ER. The ER is being asked to fold, sort and transport more proteins than it has the capacity to accomplish. (Insulin also causes amino acids to be transported into a cell, so insulin resistance slows the cells production of proteins.) The cure is to reduce the source of the stress (inflammation and excess glucose) and to increase the capacity of the ER. In 2004, an article was published in a sports medicine journal examining the cellular changes that occur in intense physical conditioning. The important (to me) result was that it could triple the size and capacity of the ER alleviating ER stress and perhaps ending my diabetes.The challenge for a diabetic is to recover from physical exercise; 15 minutes of moderate exercise can take days to recover from because diabetics have impaired energy mechanisms. I adopted the eating style of bodybuilders, but ate fewer carbohydrates and more proteins and fats (because of the diabetes). And I satisfied myself with slow steady physical gains over years rather than quick gains over mere weeks.Now I am 222 pounds (23% body fat), normal blood pressure, normal hart rate, I can run up stairs two at a time and I am no longer diabetic. My 60th birthday will be coming up in a few days and this summer I want to complete my transformation by losing 25 pounds of fat and adding another 10 pounds of muscle to the 77 pounds I’ve already built.

Why must I change my body composition for the summer? How about the rest of my life?Once I started lifting weights and doing circuts and learning the different ways to work out my body, I was hooked. There is no other feeling like working out and knowing your body is changing. I was on my way to the best body of my life and then I got pregenant. I was devistated that the body I worked so hard to change was now going to be misshapen once more. I didn’t feel I had a way to prevent the fat gain so I ate whatever I wanted. When it was all said and done I had a body that weight 205 on a 5’4 frame. even 3 months after having my daughter, I was at 175. No it wasn’t the muscle I gained the 12 months prior. My daughter is almost 2 now and before her 2nd birthday, I am determined to get my body back. But this time even better than ever. My mom is morbidly obese and I vowed that I would never be that way. Well, this pregnancy was closer to that than I ever wanted to get to being obese. It scared me!! I don’t understand why I haven’t been able to get to my pre pregnancy size already, you would think 2 years would be plenty of time. I suppose I just need a competition to kick my motivation into high gear. Well, I have done that too, perhaps my nutrition needs tweaking, I am doing that too. all in all it just seems like very slow progress and I am getting frustrated. I would love to see why your program is different but I am on a tight budget and can’t put the money into a new program right now. My mom is paying for my Gym membership and going with me, that has been a great motivation lately but I still seem to be stuck at a plateu. Can you help me out?

day two of starting out easy. 60 yrs young and training again

I’m over 100 lbs overweight and suffer from Type II diabetes and high blood pressure. I already eat healthy but my problem is portion size and a lack of exercise. I golf at least 9 holes almost every day however this is not enough exercise. I want to get the motivation to get into an exercise routine to help me burn the fat. I want to live without medication.

It took a truly life-changing event to make me finally able and fully committed to making my body as healthy, capable, and vital as it can be: I got pregnant.I’m now two months along, and have found that eating right for and exercising for this kid-to-be is one of the hardest AND most rewarding things I can do – it’s a commitment to both of our futures. I’ve read a ton of pregnancy books, and the party line stresses that this is a “delicate” and miraculous time; what I’ve learned is that, while the latter is certainly true, the transformations that I’m undergoing – and that I’d like to be in a better position to help along – is one that makes a warrior, not a delicate flower.So, RIGHT NOW is a must in so many ways. I know that, once I’m further along, I won’t be able to be quite so active – but the more active I am now, the better those few months from now will be. I also know that this will help me set up a healthy, uber-active, adventurous life for my child – so s/he’ll never have to go through some of the body-loathing and self-consciousness that I have.

Transforming my body this summer is important to me because it is the only one I have and the only one I am ever likely to get. At 46 years old I should have grown to enjoy my body it not put up with it. I have a lovely wife and a 3 year old daughter I wish to live a long and happy life with them both. I am doing this now as my life (as always) is happening to me while I am busy making other plans.

I am determined to lose weight this summer.

“I deserve this”!

I’ve always wanted to be in the best shape I could be in. My dad went into a nursing home at 48 because of serious heart problems and a massive stroke. I’ve tried to do this because I don’t want to end up in the same shoes as him. I coach basketball now and I want to show my players that not all basketball coaches are bigger. I can run sprints too. I’m 21 years old and I would love to be in amazing shape and keep it that way because my dad had his first heart attack at 33. I want a healthy lifestyle and grow old with my kids and husband… When they exist. Thanks for the opprotunity a lot of people deserve this!!

I’ve already come a long way with my strength, fitness, fat loss and much improved body image. Now I want to finish the job and sculpt my perfect body. I need to show myself that my limits are those that I set for myself. And why now? I need to be in the best shape of my life in October when I’m trekking in Patagonia so I can love the place instead of battling with my lack of strength and fitness.

So why do I want to be in better shape? Many answers are because I want to look better or live a healthy long life. What about doing yard work last weekend and being sore for 2 days from it?! And trust me I was in no way over exerting myself! I am not the strong person I used to be and that’s more than just physically. I need this challenge not only to get my body in peak condition but also my mind and self control.Why is transforming in the next 98 days a must? My son wants me to do a half marathon with him in October. When I gave a grown and told him we needed to start hitting the pavement he said, “that’s okay Mom I can do it by myself.” He’s almost twelve. After I made it clear we were doing this as a team I over heard him tell one of my friends about it. They kinda chuckled and asked him if I even jogged! He responded with we used to run 3 miles three to four times a week, but we haven’t in a long time. I want him to be proud to run with me in October. I should be the strong one encouraging him “WE CAN DO IT!”.It’s going to be a lot of work…I’m looking forward to it!!!

I want to be in better shape by the end of the summer because there is no better time. It is very easy to keep pushing off getting in shape and before you know it months and years pass by as you always prioritize everything else before your body and health. I would like to bring my BMI down from overweight to regular range. Transforming now is the perfect time and there are always more distractions after the summer.

I was looking for a way to drop a few pounds when I saw your book. I am 60 years old and in good shape. I walk 3 miles a day and have always been active but I just didn’t feel like I was doing as good as I should. I read your book and followed the advice on how to change mentally and physically while following a food regimen and I began to get enthused about this transformation. I have lost 20 lbs. and firmed up to being in almost the best shape of my life. The positive influence from your book was what set me on my path. While I don’t have any before and after pictures, I know that your help is what gave me renewed energy and strength. Thank you

How much longer can I let myself slide? I have to take control now! Years of abuse have left me with a resting heart rate in the ’90’s, blood pressure through the roof and a test that says I’m pre diabetic. This road will kill me but a change of diet and exercise give me a chance to live and with it a chance to achieve instead of just existing.