Been a long time... I've got a question for y'all

I joined THR a long time ago after following a link on an Oleg Volk poster. I used to spend a lot of time on here lurking and learning. My passion for firearms and 2A issues hasn't gone away but I have a lot of other things going on in my life these days that keeps me off the range and the forums. Fatherhood, new job, etc. I have a little story and a question - maybe somebody can help.

I went through a rough patch a few years back, got hurt, got fat, was drinking too much, was depressed... I changed some things about my life but ice cream replaced beer and I got fatter... I was in a lot of pain and didn't want to become an opioid statistic. A doctor, after a long exam/talk with me suggested I do yoga - I did for six months and it helped me in a lot of ways but I wasn't really getting into shape so much as I was freeing up some tightness and learning to be comfortable with myself. My wife suggested I get back into shooting and maybe some shooting sports, something to occupy my energy and time that was fun and positive and physical. Anyway, I was watching some youtube videos and gearing up and (here is where my memory needs a boost) I came across a famous firearms instructor who I knew his name and knew he was well respected. He, however, was pretty overweight and it surprised me based on what I knew about his skills and background. I googled it and he had a video explaining his struggles with pain and injury etc. and ended the video talking about how he joined and loved a CrossFit Gym. I went out that day and joined one. I changed what I ate (tracking it with MyFitnessPal) and worked out like a maniac. I lost 40 pounds bringing me down to about 170 and I got way stronger again. I have since left the very expensive gym and now work out with a fantastic group of guys in an organization called F3. Check them out. Anyway, I forget the guys name and can't find him on Google using the terms I am searching for but maybe you guys could help. I wanted to thank him for the inspiration. Going shooting this weekend and hoping to add some new toys to my toy box soon but life is better than ever. Anyway, I know I am popping in here after years and exposing myself but if I remember correctly THR was a bunch of great guys. Thanks for any help of suggestions you might have.

Joe

 

I think you're thinking of Larry Vickers. He appears to be overweight: https://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?167663-Why-I-m-Fat-by-Vickers-Tactical

That said, I rather have a fat former door-kicking, fire-breathing, dragon-eating, napalm-**** SEAL/Ranger on my team than any five Cross-fit-faux-lumberjacks you could find.

 

Larry Vickers is lucky to be alive. He may be a little overweight but I certainly don't think he's "fat" (his term) and I would be proud to shake his hand and salute him. He is the real deal. He has a Youtube channel (for now anyway) with a great many excellent videos. He is also one of the best 1911 smiths out there. Good luck to you Joe.

 

edwardware writes:

Absolutely!

 

Thanks Joe,
You too are an inspiration.

 

Larry is good people.

 

Welcome back! This is truly a good place.

The High Road is my internet sanctuary from bad news, more bad news, stupid politics, and rude behavior. I don't know how much of the internet I could take if I couldn't come here to decompress. And on top of all that I get to read about and discuss firearms.

 

Larry actually has a YouTube video about his weight . Lots of knee and back issues from all the heli jumps he did in the service makes exercise and physical activity tough.

He is a good guy and I have heard a lot reading/watching his stuff

 

Good for you Joe never give up

 

While I can't help you with a name, I am happy to hear that you are doing well. I have been away for almost two years, I got an office job and got fat, then I tried to get better and hurt myself. I am just now getting back into my hobbies, including shooting and reloading. Find what works for you and do it, you'll always feel better doing than not.

 

Vickers paid his shear and some for the freedom of our nation. Knowing his background should be an inspiration to all.
Joe, remember that life is hard. Push yourself every day, even if it’s just for those little victories. The man that falls, but gets back up, has nothing to be a shamed of. But the man that falls and gives up will never know the taste of victory.

 

Larry Vickers - that’s it. Thanks guys. To be clear, I said I got fat - didn’t call him so. I saw his video and he inspired me. He explained that he’d been hurt doing Badass doorkicker stuff. Hope nobody thought I was talking about him with anything but respect. Thanks guys - I plan to send him a thanks as well.

 

Update - I just saw his newest video and he has lost so much weight I didn't recognize him at first. Way to go LV! Go to Youtube and watch his video on the M3 subgun.

 

Awesome.

I temporarily changed my profile pic to a before and after I made last year. October 2016 to about October 2017. I need to update.

Don't want to beat a dead horse but some of you said you were inspired so I figured I would share a bit more. Things have just gotten better. These days I work out with a group called F3 - free and open to all men, always outside, peer led. Check them out they might have a chapter near you https://f3nation.com/new-to-f3/ . I do feel better prepared for disaster, and to defend my family than I did for those few years things were rough. Thanks again guys - really.

 

Thanks for this. One of the best threads I've seen in a while. Most gun owners are far more likely to die of being fat than they are likely to need to use a weapon to defend themselves. Many would be better off selling a gun or two and putting that money toward a gym membership or workout equipment. Congrats on your success and good luck as you move forward, Joe.

 

Wow - yeah, he made it happen. I finally got around to sending him a thank you. For those of you who haven't seen it here is his "why I am fat" video and if you look, my thank you.

THR is still where it's at. Glad I'm back.