by Jason Strunk
Lubbock High School Head Football Coach
Follow @WestTXCoach
Alright, here is the deal. When I move to a new state, I gain 25 pounds. The only time it didn’t happen is when I went to Purdue. Other than that, the Strunk 25 has been in full effect. I gained close to 30 pounds after moving to Lubbock. It’s not good!
After last years health scare (near stroke), I decided I was getting back in shape for good. Since 2004, I have always maintained right around 185-190. When a new move happens, I add 25 pounds while I’m getting used to my new surroundings.
Here is a guide to avoid the Strunk 25:
1. No excuses. You cannot say you don’t have time to exercise. Make time. Making time will keep you alive. I exercise now for sixty minutes a day. It’s important. Do it. You will have more energy and your mind works better when you are in shape.
2. Avoid fast food. It used to be nothing for me to polish off a triple cheeseburger while watching film at 2:00 a.m. Observation: it makes you fat. Stick to grilled food. Just cut out the Whataburger, McDonalds and so forth.
3. Do not stress eat. When stress hits, don’t grab the doughnuts. Hit the treadmill or the track. Go workout. It’s easy!
4. Avoid the restaurant curiosity. When in a new place, you see all kinds of new restaurants. You’ll want to eat at them all. That’s fine. Just don’t hit them all in one week. Pace yourself. Watch your intake.
5. Be active. Run around practice like a mad man and burn extra calories. When you lose weight you feel great. When you feel great, you will be more active!
This profession is tough on the body, mind and midsection. I made this change to improve my overall quality of life, not just football life. I want to see my kids grow up. The way I was going I was gonna burn out or be dead long before I should have been. Do not think it can’t happen to you. Take care of your body! It is essential in our profession. Hang on – that is incorrect!! It is essential in your every day life! Just get healthy!
If you need help with this, get at me. I can help you FIO!
Editor’s Note: At the top of the story you can listen to Jeff Fisher’s interview with Strunky in January 2014 that outlines his health scare.
