Fourteen Days

I remembered when I first started going to the gym. I was full of hope, full of energy and full of determination.

I had a goal in mind and that was to lose weight.

5 months later, I had 11% body fat as measured by the Gym Consultant, Tony @ JPMC and I was wearing a size 34 and wore M sized Tee Shirts.

People say you shave off a few years off your face when you lose weight. I know I did.

I was fit, energetic, always up for any game that involves running.

I had managed to transform my life in a few months with discipline.

I watched what I ate, I counted my calorie intake everyday in my head.

I took my weight lost for granted and sort of neglected running and going to the gym. I only do it in during what ever free time or whenever I feel like it.

So over the months I have gained back the weight which I lost. I never thought I would gain back so much. 

I have not blown up like a blow fish would but rather last december I took part in a health check up and even though the nurse said I was healthy but the number on the weighing scale triggered an alarm in my head.

I need to take a step back and look at my life.

Lucky for me, all this discovery was in the last month of last year. So I made losing weight amongst the things I want to achieve in 2009.

We can only plan ahead and sometimes we do not really know what the future will bring.

A blogger once had this notion on his blog, 'For something to become a routine, one needs 14 day to do the same thing for it to become a habit.'

In am currently on day 8 of my return to habit mode. I miss running and I remembered I once was addicted to running. Just kept on running and running. I had this urge to run everyday. I once took an online bulimic test and the results confirmed I had a minor case of bulimia. If I did not react to it I will surely suffer from it. Alhamdulillah I found out about it.

Now I am slowly getting my determination back. My struggles will soon become a habit and running will not be a chore but an addiction.

Some sacrifices I have to make; No rice but only occasionally but preferable to avoid if necessary. No eating after 8 p.m. I usually cook my own food. 

I feel like I have lost a little weight already, my jeans feel a bit lose so that just fuels my determination even more.

I do short runs daily averaging 3 - 4 Km runs and I shave off 10-25 seconds everyday. 

From experience, its all in the mind. Every activity, I believe, requires not just physical strength but mental strength as well. If you body tells you to give up, tell your mind to be strong. 

Believe in yourself. Adidas quotes "Impossible is nothing".

p.s: I love running in the rain :D

Fourteen Seconds Off

I've started running again.

Doing short to 3 km runs for the past week.

I've stared my diet of no rice but I have to be honest there have been a couple of occasions that could not be avoided.

But I feel great.

I just want to get fit and shed the weight that I have gained over the year.

Today I managed to shave off 14 seconds of my time from yesterday.

I ran the same route today and I know I can get faster.

But I want to run longer.

I need to do more training and watch my calorie intake.

Will update some more soon.

Drunken Old Man a.k.a DOM

DOM: Anak ni PakCik nak minta rokok. Bule ya?

Fayyad: Bah (Offers a stick and kindly lights it up for DOM)

Fayyad & Me: (Hoping DOM to walk away)

DOM: Anak ni anak orang kaya?

F&M: Tidak ih! Biasa saja

DOM: Tapi kamu duduk minum sini. PakCik minta maaf ya. Pakcik ni nak balik! Pakcik ni mabuk. (We shook hands / Besalam)

F&M: (Nods in agreement)

DOM: Kamu ni Anak orang kaya ya?

F&M: (Puzzled! He asked that question just now. Oh yes he's drunk) Tidak pakcik

DOM: Nama kamu siapa?

Me: Daniel

Fayyad: Haikal

DOM: Oh! Kamu ni tinggal di mana? Pakcik ni nak balik (Besalam lagi)
Me: Kami tinggal disana (points to somewhere)

DOM: Dimana kamu tinggal? (Rising his voice)

Me: Di Api-Api Apartment

DOM: Oh di Api Api Centre ya? Pakcik ni nak balik. Pakcik balik dulu ya! (Besalam lagi)

F&M: Ya Pakcik

DOM: Ya pakcik ni nak balik! Mintak rokok

F: (Gives him a stick and lights it up for him)

DOM: Kamu ni telinga kamu besar! Kamu tinggal di Api Api centre. Kamu tau sana banyak orang kena tangkap! (referring to Fayyad)

F: (Nods)

DOM: Kamu ni muka kamu macam perempuan *laughs* (referring to me)

Me: (I have very short hair! How can I look like a girl??) (Nods) Ya Pakcik

DOM: Pakcik ni mau pulang! Bole mintak satu jug?

Me: Kami mau pulang juga sekejap lagi

DOM: Ya pakcik pun mau pulang. Bule pakcik duduk? (Grabs nearby chair)

F&M: (Starts to stand up)

DOM: Duduk dulu! Pakcik mau cerita ni! (Face turns seriously scary)

F&M: (Sits back)

DOM: Pakcik ni nak minum. (Starts to sing) Madu~~ .... Kamu coba (asking me to sing)

Me: Lawa suara pakcik. Tapi aku nda pandai nyanyi

DOM: (sings again) Madu~~ Cuba kamu nyanyi

Me: nda pandai pakcik

DOM: Pakcik ni mau pulang. Kamu mau pulang. Macam mana pakcik mau pulang?

Me: (Signals Fayyad to run)

Fayyad: (Nods)

DOM: Pakcik minta rokok

Fayyad does the same thing again.

I signalled Fayyad to run.

We ran away.

DOM: OI! Tunggu!

It was a blur. I remember running into a fence. Then found an exit, jumped four flights of stairs to the road and ran as fast as I could. Crossed the road. Fayyad kept on screaming 'Sini Bang Jul'.

About a few hundred metres from the hotel, we stopped and looked back. No DOM chasing us but we were huffing and puffing like mad. Then this couple asked us what was wrong. We replied 'Ada orang mabuk mau kejar kami!'

We jogged back to the hotel not taking any chances at all.

What a way to start the Road Trip holiday.

Lesson learned: Do not sit outside of Starbucks in KK past midnight on a Saturday night. You never know what kind of people you might bump into or bump into you.

Today's run

Been nursing my bruised knee and foot since the futsal friendly on Saturday Afternoon. Not entirely satisfied with my run today eventhough I managed to cut my time by Two minutes. Will update later.

/edited 6.52 p.m./

I started my run at 8.0

After 5 mins increased to 8.5

After 5 mins increased to 9.0

Paused - Stretch

Continue run at 9.5

After 5 mins increased to 10.0

Paused - Stretch

Continue run at 10.5

Last 500m ran at 11.0

Last 200m ran at 12.0

Reached 5 k at 32.22 mins

Cool down 5 mins

My right calf muscles still bothering me. I am not sure if I should increase my salt intake.

Tomorrow is a low intensity workout day. Not really - I have Handball in the morning and Futsal in the afternoon.

Anyways, today I did not do any cycling. Instead, I chose to do a 10 min work out with the punching bag. I read somewhere that its a very good cardio and abs workout. I did my routine Abs workout before hitting the pool. I have added weight when I do my upper abs workout.

That is my workout for today.

Can I find the ground?

It has been a while since I posted something proper and well this one will also be a simple one.

I have been on holiday for nearly a month since my wedding and well in a few hours I will wake up and get ready for work. I feel like its my first day at work and I am kinda excited to meet everyone at school. I know they will ask me all sorts of questions and I know they'll make a few jokes along the way but I do miss my workplace. Just my work place and not so much my work. :)

I have not been running much. Honestly I have not been looking after my diet. No cause for alarm really because when I was on my honeymoon, I went shopping and my waist size has shrunk by two inches and it was a very good feeling. I managed to do some runs after I got back from my honeymoon and then after a few days I was away again to KK for some official Youth stuff.

So far I think I have managed to maintain my weight despite the lack of runs and abandoning my diet. But I have mention to my wife that I will start my diet again and back to my runs on Monday.

I miss running. I blogged hopped to Ms Murabiyyah's site, which I have not visited in a while and found this [right click here]. I did the test myself and I am not like Ms Murabiyyah - I am more of 'The Exerciser'.

I have been meaning to blog about my outdoor runs at the stadium however I have not had the time to do it. Soon I hope.

As for now I am hoping I settle in quickly to my work and focus on my runs.

Slow 5 km run - //edited 140607//

It has been nearly a month since I last went on my favourite tread mill. I was motivated initially to do a 60 minute run. However, I felt tired after 20 minutes. My thighs started to tighten so I had to stop a couple of times to strech my legs. I did the same pre-warm up streches and '5 minute' warm up walk before I started my run. I guess I am abit our of shape to do a long run. I have not neglected my runs. Before he wedding I normally do a 3 km run in the afternoon and on somedays I do two 3 km runs - once in the morning and once in the afternoon. I also managed to do a 4 km run at the gym at Royal Plaza on Scotts on my honeymoon.

I did the above run in the morning after sending my wife off to work. I was unsatisfied with my run and did another run in the afternoon. The Wifey went for brisk walking with her bst friend 'Juice' and I went for a quick run. A 3.6 km run in 20'56" minutes. It was my first time to run in the route below. I passed the 'Gurkha barracks' and the Edinbrugh Palace. I had thought of running up to the MOF building but I did not really want to push myself on the first day. I might injure myself.

Overall, after my run I felt very satisfied. I gained one kilo on my honeymoon and I am freaking out already. I know I should not but I cannot help it. *Sigh* I almost forgot, I ran wearing my new Megabounce. It was very comfortable. Thanks to Adidarwish for recommending me the shoes. It is worth every cent.

WELCOME TO THE CLUB

First I would like to thank Baby D's Mom - MamaSuds for finding that countdown timer widget that you may see on the your left side as you view this on your screen.

I cannot believe the day is coming soon. I have a few more things to settle but that does not mean everything is done and ready. There are a lot more things to do at home. Weddings are big events in this country.

I have some more invitations to send out. Some of my friends have kindly requested to just send them a text message with the full details of address and time. Thank you guys!! I can only thank you so much for your kindness. Its cheaper to send an SMS than print the card. But who's complaining? You only get married once right!

Most of my guy friends have made some 'kind' remarks about my upcoming wedding. Some remarks from them;

'Alhamdullilah! Kawin ko jua ah Hahahaha!'
'Apa ih! Kan kawin ko wah?'
'Syukur tah ko kawin! Nda jua ko begatal lagi!'
'Selamat tah bini-bini lain di Brunei ani hahahaha'
'Kawin jua ko akhirnya ah! Kira tah nda mau kawin Hahahaha'

Most of the people have greeted me with a simple 'Congratulations!' or 'Congrats'

My personal favourite - 'Welcome to the Club!'

This 'Club' that I am about to join, (1) Where do I sign up? (2) Do I have to pay an annual fee? (3) What privileges do I get? *LoL*

Answer (1): No need to sign anywhere - just the dotted lines on that piece of paper which will certify me the right to become a husband.

Answer (2): I reckon this one is the 'Nafkah' for the wifey.

Answer (3): Privileges - A plenty! Once I am married I have every right to make fun of the ones who are about to get married and I can finally fit into conversations where only 'Married' people are allowed. Hahahaha!

I am estatic. Tonight my uncle will help me to 'usai' my barang hantaran for 'Hers'. I am itching to take pictures. But I will restrain myself.

P.S: Bro Adidarwish - I found the Adidas MEGABOUNCE for men at Hua Ho Manggis Mall. Thank you so much for the review. The price is as you mentioned in your post. Its going to be on my hantaran. Yipeeee!!! Opss!! That was suppose to be a secret but I could not contain myself. I tried the Supernove as well but the Megabounce felt much more comfortable.

I have not been to the gym for over a week now. Busy with school work and wedding preps, I have been fidgeting to go on a run. So I woke up at 7.30 this morning to do my 3.5 km run outdoors in my kampung. I started my run at 8.20 a.m. The sun was bright and it was hot, but I am not complaining. The sun was brilliant. I needed the extra Vitamin E's. Eventhough I have not been to the gym I have been doing 3km run outdoors. So it had been four days since my last run. My run in the bright Friday morning sun was great and I managed to do it in a time of 19 mins 37 secs. But about 3/4 of my run I felt a sharp pain under my ribs. From experience it mean I am dehydrating and my water reserves are low. I should stop and walk. But I did not and just continued to run at a slower pace. I reckoned if I did not get the sharp pain I would have finished my run at a record time. Morale of the story: Do not forget to eat something light like a banana before a run and a glass of water. Hahahaha!

I'm getting married!! Yipeeeeeeeeeee!!!

I love the 'Rain'

Today's weather forecast in the morning had indicated scattered showers in the morning and thunderstorms developing over inland areas in the afternoon. Well basically the forecast for today was nearly accurate.

It rained today - Alhamdulillah - It has been scorching hot the past couple of days and a cool day was definitely pleasing for many. Initially I had planned to go up the MoF Route but since the weather was not on my side I opted for another route.

I started at 'Her's' office and made my way around the main road and back to the office. Roughly the route is about 3 km as you may view above and I did it in 20 minutes - give or take - because I forgot to wear my watch and my only indicator was the number of songs I had listened to during my short run 'in the rain'.

Her's was not please because I am just about to get better from my 'bug' and now I am running in the rain. [Sorry Love - I just had to do a quick run]

Coming soon - Personal tips on how to lose weight. I am sure other people have managed to lose more weight then myself in a span of three months but to me I have achieved something which I deemed impossible. But I am now a product of my own creation and I am happy with what I have achieved.

Scorching afternoon runs

Before I start, I would like to take this opportunity to extend a big thank you to 'Mr BR' and Mr BR Sir you will be missed. I have my 3G phone set to auto update for your blogsite, which means I get daily RSS feed of BR.blogspot evey morning and I always get around to read it during my coffee breaks between classes.

The last post from Mr BR was yesterday, Sunday 15th April 2007. See you around Mr BR Sir. Your contributions have opened the minds of the Now, Younger and Future generation that will one day work together to ensure a sustainable Brunei in the years to come. All the best in your career Sir. I truly believe you have "-- helped foster a better informed Brunei society --"

My JPMC Gym membership expired last Saturday and I have been running outdoors since last week. Even with the 'bug' I just had to run. I am convinced I am a 'Running Addict'. Eventhough I do not run for long distances I at least must do a 3 km run.

I have only managed to do 21 minutes for the 3.33 km run that you may view above. I am hoping to do a faster run in the next couple of days but the weather has been blazing hot. I am sure it was only 33 deg C. The Maximum temperature by the weather forecast is 33 deg C while the minimum is 24 deg C.

I think I do roughly the same time on the treadmill but running outdoors under the sun is a totally different matter. I usually start my run around half past four in the afternoon. I have done this route for 4 days now with the 'bug' and my throat is always very dry after completing 3/4 of the distance. Sometimes I feel like I want to vomit.

If all goes well I shall renew my membership this Friday. I miss going to the gym in the afternoons with all the work I have right now. So many things to do and so little time to spend at the gym. But I always make sure I do my runs.

Today I did my run and played futsal from 6 to 8 pm at JKR with the AiTi-ans. I feel so drained and warm tonight. I am going to bed after this.

I have something interesting to share. Its is vey useful especially for those who plan to shed the 'extra' weight. Plus I would love to share with you what I have gone through the past three months and I have lost 10 kg in 3 months. I guess that is not so good since the normal indicator is to lose 2 kg a month. Perhaps this is why I am experiencing the 'Bug'. Below is the latest picture of SiRT. Excuse me for being *Cough*Vain*Cough*

On a different note, I have gone to 'Dreamcones', the new Gelato Joint in Q-Lap. Mr Reeda was there at the launching and Mr Reeda Sir I agree with you; Who does not love 'Nutella'? I helped myself to Nutella and French Vanilla. It was simply divine. I would recommend it to anyone. Drive yourself down to Q-Lap, it is on the same row as CAM.

I MISS YOU I DO - *Edited* 2nd April 2007 *

Yesterday, Sunday, 1st April - 'Hers' got on a plane to the 'Lion City' for a meeting. She will be back on Friday.

After that I had breakfast with some of the Airtrek Members - Deen and Ronny at U-Sop Cafe. We normally meet once every two weeks for 'T.T a.k.a Tea Time' at Restaurant Faize at Mata-Mata. But since I have been busy and also the other guys we abandoned the Tea Time meet ups. We talked about our rides, other members, things happening in the forum which I rarely check out *Sorry guys* and other stuff. We finished just before noon and I headed home.

Got myself a short nap and was unsure whether I should head to the gym or not. I had a half past five 'date' at the Empire driving range.

At half past four I was on my way to the gym to do a quick run.

While I was streching - a lady greeted me - Ms Murabbiyah *Hi*

I did my fastest 5 km so far. I reached 5 km at 31.41 minutes. Average speed of 9.0 to 11.0. I went outside to catch my breath and then a quick shower and I was already last by 10 minutes.

I arrived at the Empire Driving range at ten to six. The smell of the green grass and the wide green space was breath taking as always. I met up with my 'date' and also met another friend of mine.

I have not touched my clubs since late November and I did not expect to do well. I was just accompanying my friend and it was the least I could do to 'layan' his 'gian-ness'.

I took out my 7 iron and whacked the small yellow dimpled driving range balls of The Empire driving range. Result - It went up! A sigh of relief for myself but all my balls sliced to the left. Make that a 'Super sliced'.

I switched to a half swing and my balls went straight but the distance was disappointing.

Then I took out my 9 iron. Not bad for a 4 month layoff commented my friends. My 9 iron was working well. *Par 3 here I come - After June that is LoL*

I got tired of my irons and went to take out my 'date's' TaylorMade R5 driver. First few balls sliced and then it went straight but the distance was short.

Then I took out my driver - My balls went surprisingly straight. Averaged about 170 - 180 meters. Not bad. So I just swung my driver over and over until I finished my last ball.

All in all I think my driving outting was a good one. I guess hitting the driving range once in a while would not hurt. I would like to thank my 'date' for the invitation. I promise I will start hitting the greens after June, Insya-Allah.

Guilt run

This morning's run was a guilt run for what I consumed for dinner last night. The Family had a little dinner celebration without a birthday cake *gasps* - poor Lateng will have to make do without a birthday cake this year.

We had dinner at the Food Court at The Mall. My parents ordered some 'Thai' food for one of the stalls. I know my parents won't order any food from them again. It was so-so and we know we've had better.

Anyways, My Mother made me eat rice. I have been doing alright without rice for a while now and since it has been a while I thought why not. Not until I realised that my parents had ordered 7 different dishes. *Scratching forehead*

I ate five of the dishes and said 'No thank you' to 'Telur goreng and Ayam pandan'. The other dishes were two different vegetable dishes, two different fish dishes and Tom Yam soup.

So I woke up this morning determined to do a 60 minute run to rid the dinner. After running I got on the scale and am thankful that there was no sudden increase but it remained the same as it was when I checked my weight on Friday morning.

My membership expires early next month and I hope to lose a couple more kilos before that. So far I have been complimented by my friends and how different I look now and some even got worried why I looked 'thin'. HaHaHaHa.

I am feeling great. My motivation is still high. I know I look good now Hahahahahaha. I have bragging rights now. Have you??

0.07 Shy

Another milestone for me.

Today's run I had aimed to reach 9 km before the 60th minute mark but I was shy 0.07 km.

At 60 mins I had reacher 8.93 km. So near yet so far. My average speed was 9.0 to 10.0. I dashed at 11.o at the 59th minute and increased to 13.0 at 59'30. I am not sure if I will do another 60 minute run tomorrow. Maybe just a 6 km run but increase my base speed and aim for a shorter time.

My legs did not give me any problems today and I was very thankful for that. I will attempt another 60 minute run sometime this week. Probably on Wednesday or Friday morning.

On another note I have been playing the 'Chef' for the past two nights. Last night this is what I dished up. A trial dish.

Sauteed Boneless Chicken with pan fried capsicum - Red and Green with sliced carrots and potatoes.

Additional ingredients: Chopped herbs, Black Pepper and iodised salt

Cooked with a teaspoon of Olive oil

Conclusion: Tasteless. Had to eat with Chilli sauce and Tomato Ketchup

Tonight's Dish

Sauteed Boneless Chicken with pan fried carrots, green capsicum and tomatoes.

Additional ingredients - chopped herbs, lots of black pepper, chili paste (Lada kisar) and a pinch of iodised salt spread earlier on the boneless chicken breast

Cooked with a teaspoon of Olive oil

I made this dish for two people and asked my younger brother, Tenno, to try it out.

Verdict: He said 'Nyaman jua' and asked me what I had put inside the dish and how and what I needed to prepare the dish.

Conclusion: The additional Chili paste and lots of black pepper made the dish spicy and no additional sauce was needed.

Bon Apetite!!

Birthday wish goes out to my good friend, Mr Jonathan Bong a.k.a Datuk. We go way back 'Datuk'. Wishing you all the best in everything you do and when we go KL 'Datuk'? *LoL*

Below: The Good Old Days - 'Datuk' in the Studio with me.

One Month and Five Days

I have been busy downloading free songs *Oppsss* [So Sue Me! I'm just joining the bandwagon].

Since the HDD Transplant for my M6 was only a minor success I am busy updating my playlist. Not really minor, the HDD kinda just died on Mr Alex. Thank you again Mr Alex - Gong Xi Fa Chai. I want to thank the wonderful people at multiply.com for 'sharing' your songs.

Gong Xi Fa Chai to my Chinese friends and readers *If there are any* May you have a prosperous year ahead of you.

Is it not wonderful to wake up on Monday morning and not go to work? I did not sleep in as I did yesterday. Woke up early to head to the gym. It was closed yesterday for Gong Xi Fa Chai. I needed the break anyways so I did not feel guilty for not going.

Last Saturday I supervised and played bowling with the students of my school as I have been put incharge of the 'Bowling Club' this year with two other teachers. We had to wait till the last girl went home and that was around 5 p.m. I did not really rush to the gym as I remembered my brother telling me the gym closes at 7 on Saturdays. But when I arrived I bumped into him and he told me they were closing at 6. My watched showed 5.30 p.m.

Thank you to the girl at the counter, you are such an Angel for allowing me to do my 30 min run. I needed it so badly.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I has been exactly One month and Five days since I joined the gym.

What have I achieved so far?

I have managed to comfortably increase my speed on the treadmill. Initially when I started I only managed to do 4.5 km in 40 mins.

Nowadays I can reach the 6 km mark in 40 mins.

My best run to date was early this month when I managed to do 8.4 km in 60 mins and finished at 8.83 km after 65 mins.

At the moment I have been doing 40-45 min runs only as I try to increase my pace. I jog - sprint - walk - jog - sprint. I rely on my music to dictate my run. If I am listening to an upbeat - fast track I print. If its a slow jam - I walk and if its somewhere in the middle - I simply jog.

I will go back to my 60 min runs perhaps next week. I have a target and I hope to be able to reach the 9 km mark before 60 mins.

Have I managed to lose weight? To lose weight one has to be very disciplined. You are what you eat and there is an interesting post on Ms Murabiyyah's blog. Eversince I joined the gym I have stuck to a kind of diet. I eat all my meals. My helpings are in smaller portions and I have slowly been able to exclude 'rice' from my daily diet. I do eat rice but only occasionally. My carbs mostly come from Wholemeal bread. I even cook my own dinner. I stop eating after 8 p.m. and some people like Mr Adidarwish I believe stops eating after 6 p.m. I do not even buy food from my school canteen. I make my own breakfast every morning before work and I always have my bottle of water with me.

If my fiance plans to eat out, she knows I have to eat early and she is so supportive. But it is actually hard to find a place that serves 'healthy' food. My choice is always 'grilled' stuff like Ideal or Dixie's grilled chicken. There is also the occasional 'Sushi' outing.

I try to go to the gym 6 days in a week. I have a routine and I miss running outdoors. But I have developed a kind of comfort zone on the treadmill. I will run outdoors again. When? I do not know yet. I guess when I find a new pair of running shoes for running outdoors. *winks at Hers*

Another interesting article I came across is on multiply. From a lady named Sita and she copied it off somewhere and I think If you are serious about losing weight this will be a very good read. Link is [here].

Oh and before I forget - Happy Birthday Mr RF. See you around. If anyone wants to g=join the JPMC gym - Mr RF will be renewing his membership soon and for B$100 you can become a member for 3 months. So if you are interested please go to Mr RF's site for more details.

I haven't aswered my earlier question - well truth is - I do not want to mention it hear. I prefer the people who know me and have seen me, to tell me in person if they have seen any changes. I know I see it but what is the point if other do not.

'Snap Bug' - Part Dhul (Korean for the Number Two)

Strike a pose!

Busy during breaktime

Dedication

Alone?

My Apologise for the lack of updates. I will blog soon.

Adidarwish - My PC at home is aging fast and my lappy is still in recovery after a HDD transplant. But I will blog soon.

A couple of things to mention but a big plus for me as I reached my 8 Km run at 57 mins. I have managed to up my speed and with my new toy to accompany me during my runs, I can focus better.

Will upload more photos soon. So tell me what you think.

Assalamualaikum

January Gone

I have been busy with work and also my blog addiction has dried up due to my tiredness from work and working out.

I still make my regular visits to the JPMC Gym and do my 60 minute runs.

Note to RF: If you have not had the chance to go to the gym - the 3rd Treadmill that was 'Out of Order' is working now.

Also they replaced the TV infront of the treadmills with a Sony Flat Screen TV. Kudos to JPMC Fitness Gym.

Today I did two seperate 30 min runs not by plan. I had plan to do a 60 minute run but half way my tummy felt a bit sick after the Steamed Chicken Rice I had for lunch out with my Fiance's Family. I guess my metabolism is working around the clock *Hehehehe*.

My first run I started at 8.3 from 0-15 mins
Then I walked at 5.5 from 15-20 mins
Run at 8.3 from 20-30 mins
At 30th min pressed 'Cool Down' and finished at 4.++ km at 35 mins.
I did not take a picture because the toilet was yelling for me. *Too much info I figure*Blush*

My Second 30 min run was to redeem myself because I did not go for my run on Tuesday. My Fiance was not feeling well so I accompanied her to the clinic and decided to spend the day taking care of her. I managed to browse through the booths at the 'ITMania @ The Mall' and purchased an external bluetooth USB for B$10 and a 1GB Pendrive for B$28. Money well spent I guess.

My Lappy is with Lappy Wizard - Mr Alex - He can fixie fixie my lappie lappie and makie makie into a newie newie. So my Asus M6 is still kicking after 3 years. I can't wait to get it back hehehehe. Thanks Mr Alex.

Anyways back to my second 30 min run.
I ran a full 30 minutes at 8.3 and reached 4.14 Km at 30 minutes.
My legs were about to give up when I reached the 25th min mark but I told myself just 5 minutes more.
I composed myself and focused.
Result is a wide smile from myself.
I will go again tomorrow and do my 60 minute run.

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Have you realised that today is the 31st of January already. Time flies by so fast. GCE O and A results out yesterday.

Congrats to the Girls of the All Girl High School in Bandar for their remarkable results. You ahve made your parents, your teachers, the School, your family and most importantly 'Yourself' proud. I did not teach form 5 last year but I know most of them and some have gotten outstanding results and some will be back in school by next week.

"If once you did not succeed, try and try again. Because it is not the end of the world. You can do it"

Holler to Dk Kiana, Rabiatul, Azzah, Muhdyah, my Cousin Qeelah and Alai Meezah, Chea Hong and there are just too many to mention, you know who you are. Congratulations!!! Behave well and you will 'LOVE' MD or PTE Berakas.

Big up and lots of Hugs to my younger Sister - Leena - For getting her 3 A's - Maths A, Chem C and Bio C. Abang wishes you all the best and Abang pray you reach your dreams. Love you Sis.

Also to my cousin Fayad - I knew you could do it! - You owe the PHDians a treat of Nasi Beriyani Kambing! Sia Sia Pun! hahahahaha! We will hang out at Nini's Crib soon.

Let loose + Beautiful swing where art thou?

A short post today.

Thanks Mrs ZT for the support. I am very motivated and I am thankful to my younger bro for motivating me indirectly.

Since Hers was away on Saturday I spent the afternoon at the Gym. That was yesterday and I did my first 8 km after 65 mins.

I did another one this morning as I mentioned in my last post. I woke up at 7 a.m. and packed my stuff because I had a 'Jemputan' to attend at Tanjung Nangka.

My run today was very good and I felt good doing an early morning run as I slept early and missed the Live FA Cup game Vs Pompey. I am happy that we won and happy that Rooney bagged the important goals to push us through to the last 16 of the oldest cup competition in football. More Man Utd news at manutdbrunei.com

Anyways - After 65 mins I managed to do 8.18 Km

Warm up for 5 mins at 5.0

15 mins at 8.2
15 - 20 mins walk at 5.0

20 - 35 run at 8.2
35 - 40 walk at 5.0

40 - 53 run at 8.2
53 - 55 walk at 5.0

55 - 58 run at 8.3
58 - 59 run at 9.0
59.30 - 60 min run at 10.0

60th min reached 7.76 Km

5 min cool down and reached 8.18 Km

I am going to try something else tomorrow and probably up my speed slowly. I have started my 3rd week today and I feel great.

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I bumped into an old friend from Uni yesterday at the Gym - He told me just started playing Golf.

I have been neglecting Golf since I started Gym-ing and I know Mr R&aL will be organising a League format for beginners and I want to join. But my prioreties have changed and now I don't know if I do want to hit the driving range or the fairway again.

Golf where are you? Do I need you now? Do I need to further tan myself with a wedding to prepare in the next couple of months? All my Golf buddies have been looking for me. What should I do??

Like they said - 'Belulur saja' - I will try that soon I guess. But you never know. I might just go driving anytime. Par 3 anyone? Hehehehehe

8.2 km WooHooo!!! + 3G Blues

I got triggered in the words of Mrs ZT by Mr RA.com himself. Hahahaha. So sorry bro I didn't see you hehehehe.

On another note I met Mr RF at the gym today. One of the treadmills was out of order and he had to wait till I finish my run.

He witnessed me do 8.02 Km after 65 mins. Another milestone for me.

I was so happy. My run was an average speed of 8.2 - 8.3. With a couple of 5 min walks at 5.0. But the last 2 mins before the 60 min mark I dashed at 8.8.

I used his tip for warm ups and it worked. The felt pain in my 'stomach' like a needle being put through it when I reached the 40 min mark. But I told myself to focus and jst continue. Alhamdulillah it went away.

I actually have been feeling this pain for the couple of days before I fell sick. Yesterday I managed to do only a 3.6 km run at 33 mins after I accidentally clipped the emergancy stop magnet thingie and the treadmill stopped automatically. After that I just walked at 5.0 and incline at 5.0 for 5 mins.

I want to thank Mr RF for your advice. I am going again tomorrow morning. I want to try and emulate what I did today.

To JPMC Gym members/non-members - The Gym will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. only tomorrow, Sunday 28th Jan 2007.

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Check out the PRADA phone at http://whatibought2day.blogspot.com/

I was at the mall yesterday, hence the picture, and I went to incomm to check out 3G phones. Its one of those things I plan to get with the big 'B'. I came across the w850i which I have been eyeing and the Motorola RaZR V3XX. If I have spare change laying around I would not mind getting one of these babies for my prima line. 3G blues.

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Before I end, my Fiance is in Lumut babysitting her little cousins while the parents are away on business trips. I miss her already. This is how I usually feel when she is sent away on business trips. [ bah awu... Insya-allah kawin ku tahun ani hehehehhe]

Another milestone + Thank you 'Hers'

Doing a Mr RezaFaizal post on Soulkoneshen.blogspot.com

On Saturday I only managed to do a 6.5 km run after 60 mins and finished at 6.8 km after 5 mins cooldown. My knees gave in at the 45th min mark and only finished my session with a 5.0 walk till the 60th minute.

Today I did not know what got to me and the above picture was the result after 65 mins which included a 5 min cool down.

I reached the 7 km mark at the 57th minute mark at a speed of 8.2

I stared with a 5 min walk at 5.0

At 5 to 20 mins at 8.2

21th min ran at 7.0 - 22 to 25th min walked at 5.0

At 25 - 40 mins ran at 8.2

41th min ran at 7.0 - 42-45th min walked at 5.0

At 45th - 47th min ran at 7.5

At 47 - 60th min ran at 8.2

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Today I also had the pleasure of introducing myself to Mr RezaFaizal. I did not really get a chance to see how his run went but I tell you he is a dedicated runner and very focused. Maybe I could pick up a few pointers about running from the man himself the next time I see him.

Today also my knee did not give in as I was afraid that it would and I am thankful. I dedicated my run today to my wife to be. There was a small family gathering on her side at her grandparent's crib today for lunch and I actually did not want to attend as I did not want to eat lunch and just head to the gym.

Not that I am totally neglecting food but we had a dim sum brunch at Emperor's Court with our close friends and I was already full.

She insisted I come to the small 'makan' and allowed me to go to the gym after that. She was so supportive and said to take as much time as I wanted to spend. I only helped myself to a small portion of vegetables and water and I went to the gym.

I would like to thank 'Hers' for her support and understanding
for allowing me to go to the gym and finishing rather late to pick her up from
her grandparent's crib. I am sorry and I love thee with al my heart. Trust me
this will all be worth it in the long run.

I feel great each day and each day I will always try to better
myself.

Selamat Tahun Baru Hijrah + 00'7' KM

First I would like to share that I have been doing 6.8 and 6.9 Km runs for 60 mins for the past couple of days so today I thought maybe I would do something different.




I started with a 5 min walk at 5.0 and then ran for 10 mins at 8.0. and that was the routine till the last 5 mins and ran at 8.5 and by the 60 minute mark I had ran over 7km. My first 7 km yea!! Might not sound like 10 km - congrats to Mr Adidarwish. His post today is very interesting which is about running on the road or on the treadmill.



I agree with his points plus when you run on the road you can not stop running because you have to reach the place where you left your car, if you run at the stadium that is. I do miss running at the stadium and the MOF route that I used to do.



I think I am fit enough but my aim to join the gym is to shed the weight. Come this Sunday will be my first week at JPMC. It is too soon to mention success but at the rate I am going I have no doubt I can achieve it.


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I received one of these forwarded e-mails and I though this is worth sharing.

STROKE: Remember The 1st Three Letters...S.T.R.

STROKE IDENTIFICATION:

During a BBQ, a friend stumbled and took a little fall - she assured everyone that she was fine (they offered to call paramedics) and just tripped over a brick because of her new shoes. They got her cleaned up and got her a new plate of food - while she appeared a bit shaken up, Ingrid went about enjoying herself the rest of the evening. Ingrid's husband called later telling everyone that his wife had been taken to the hospital - (at 6:00pm, Ingrid passed away.) She had suffered a stroke at the BBQ. Had they known how to identify the signs of a stroke, perhaps Ingrid would be with us today. Some don't die. They end up in a helpless, hopeless condition instead. It only takes a minute to read this...

A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within 3 hours he can totally reverse the effects of a stroke...totally. He said the trick was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed, and then getting the patient medically cared for within 3 hours, which is tough.

RECOGNIZING A STROKE

Thank God for the sense to remember the "3" steps, STR . Read and Learn! Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke.

Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:

S * Ask the individual to SMILE.

T * Ask the person to TALK to SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently) (i.e. . . It is sunny out today)

R * Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS..

NOTE: Another 'sign' of a stroke is this: Ask the person to 'stick' out their tongue. If the tongue is 'crooked', if it goes to one side or the other that is also an indication of a stroke. If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call the ambulance immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

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Finally to compensate for being too lazy to post anything for the past couple of days.

One of the coolest and funniest actors I have had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing has a new movie out middle of this year. Afdlin Shauki is starring in a movie entitled 'SumoLah'.

I have not had the opportunity to check out the link but here it is for you - http://www.sumolah.com

But for more info about the funny man and his intellectual ramblings you can visit him regularly at his blog - Afdlin Sauki: Inside my head

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I know I mentioned finally but here is lastly.

Lastly, Selamat Tahun Baru
Hijrah - 1428 Hijrah. To all muslim brother and sister in Brunei Darussalam and
around the world. Let us all pray that we become better muslims and perform our
duties as muslims whole-heartedly. Amin.

Enjoy the 'Long' Weekend