Annie had this idea that if I were to start an exercise regimen, having “before” and “after” pictures would be a good idea.

Today, I post the “before” pictures. In deference to those of you who are eating, you’ll need to click the link to see the pics.

Shirtless from the front

Now I know what a few of you are thinking. “Donnie, it’s not that bad. You could be worse off — you could be me.” Yes, understood. But it feels like when a 1300 rated chessplayer admires my 1600 rating. Sure, it’s OK, but it’s not that good.

Even though my weight is not a problem, my overall living is not that healthy. I don’t exercise and vegetable consumption seems weak.

A side view makes my lack of conditioning more obvious:

Shirtless from the side

My stomach is bigger than my chest, and I have a rather ample “office butt”. Plus it’s obvious my arms have one or maybe two muscles total.

Fortunately, my new apartment complex has a gym handy, so I’ve dived into an exercise regimen. Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday for weightlifting, Monday, Wednesday, Friday for running (or other aerobic activity).

Will I get yoked like Carrot Top? Well, OK, maybe that’s not something to shoot for. In any case, I’m not doing this not for appearance, but for health. A changed physique will be a side-effect, though. And if I end up with a six-pack, that’s nothing to complain about.

Besides, it would be nice not to have to buy clothes at Kids Gap to make my arms look bigger.