@ryanmrozek This is a wonderful post, thank you for sharing your story! I love reading stories like these because they feel so real, relatable, and accessible. You changed your lifestyle and mindset with a series of slow, gradual changes, without sticking to some unattainably detailed regimen. You've found a way to work fitness into your life, not the other way around, and you are reaping the benefits! And you look great too - I can really see your progress, especially in your shoulders.
I feel like a lot of time posts on this sub are about the hard tracking and strict routines people follow, and while that's awesome and totally commendable, it's stories like these that keep me subscribed to this sub. It reminds me that there are other people like me who are passionate about health and fitness and the positive impacts it has on their lives, without having to become a full on gym junkie whose life becomes consumed by it. Again - not judging others if that's your thing! - but it was really refreshing to read your story and read all that you are passionate about outside of strength training. I'm a fellow hiker and I know just what you mean about the effects a good hike can have on you. It was cold this weekend but I still made my husband go for a hike with me and it felt soooooo good! Keep up the good work and happy trails!