WEEK 1 STATUS REPORT:

Height:   5'9"
weight:   205 lbs
bodyfat: 19.3% (-2.3%)
Fat:      39.6 lbs (-4.7 lbs)
LBM:     165.4 lbs (+4.7 lbs)
(Thanks to my friend Tracy for the handy spreadsheet so I don't have to think...;P)

Measurements:

Waist:   37.75 inches  (-1.0 inches)
Belly:   39.50 inches  (-2.0 inches)
Neck:    18.50 inches  (+0.75 inches)
Chest:   46.00 inches  (0)
Biceps:  15.75  inches (+0.25 inches)
Quads:   25.00  inches  (+0.5 inches)
Calves:  16.00 inches   (+0.25 inches)

Observations:

Well, I've got to say that I'm pretty happy with week 1. I was shooting for at least a 3 pound fat loss, and I surpassed that so it's all good! The jump in LBM was a little surprising, but since this week was a wake-up call for my muscles, I suppose they're just getting back on board so while it's good, I won't get overly excited about it until I see those measurements going up consistently. Phase 1 is still all about the fat loss, so any muscle that hops on for the ride I consider a bonus at this point.

Nutrition was easier to maintain than I thought. I was a bit concerned that the steep deficits would cause me to lose muscle, but so far no. I doubt seriously that I can consistently gain in a deficit, so I'll temper my enthusiasm and keep my eyes on the fat loss prize for the next few weeks. Then it's on to the fun part!!

And without further ado, here's the pics of day 8 of 98: