MIKE DENTON AND MODERATION
Mike Denton has been physically active his entire life. He also explains that he has never known moderation. Mike is a therapist and has worked in the field of addiction for years.
"I myself am a recovering alcoholic. I am a member of a 12 Step Fellowship." Mike goes on to say, "I have always been a bigger person", explains Mike, "when I was really young they called it husky", he says with a little laugh. "I played football for years and in college gained the Freshman 50."
THE FITNESS ROLLER COASTER
Mike has had 3 occasions in his life where he has gained and lost a considerable amount of weight.
"At my highest, and this is a guess because I was not really weighing very often, I was 320 lbs."
After graduation from college he started running which prompted a significant weight loss but as he mentioned, he does not know moderation, so he gained and lost again.
THE YMCA AND MIKE DENTON
Mike has been a member at the Baxter YMCA for just under 15 years. Prior to retirement Mike would start his day off with a workout then head off to work.
"It was a great way to get my day started", said Mike. Even though he was working out regularly, some of the "work place traditions" might have been sabotaging his fitness efforts. Mike gained again and this time he knows he made it to 290 lbs."I looked in the mirror one day and realized that all of the food that people brought to work was definitely having a negative impact on my weight. Another eye opening realization for me was going hiking with my wife. I couldn't keep up with her. I tried and I really wanted to, but I just couldn't keep up."
Upon his retirement Mike chose to continue his early morning habit of coming in for a workout. At 290 lbs he knew he had some work ahead of him so he started on the step machine. He gets in 2850 steps at a level 13 for 30 minutes, then he walks 2.25 miles on the treadmill, hits the weights for a little load bearing exercise, and then relaxes in the sauna to finish it off. Mike credits his routine for holding himself accountable.
"I still use working out as a great way to start my day and stay in shape."
THE JOYS OF FAMILY
At 67 Mike Denton is now in great shape and is enjoying "semi retirement" as he still sees some clients here and there.
[caption id="attachment_16454" align="alignleft" width="303"]
Mike, before and after weight loss[/caption]
"My wife, Julie and I have 3 kids, ages 31, 29, and 28 along with 3 grand kids, ages 8 yrs, 4 yrs, and 18 months. Two of our kids are out in Seattle and the other is in Colorado. Visiting the grand kids brings us great joy. Being fit is a big part of being able to enjoy retirement."
