My name is Matthew. I am 16 years old, 5'9", and 185 pounds. When I was 15, my uncle introduced me to bodybuilding, and from there I started losing weight.

When I started in the fitness center, I could only run on the treadmill for 5 minutes, bench press 80 lbs, curl 50 lbs, and at 5'8", I weighed a horrible 220 lbs.

I worked out every day, and after the summer was over, I joined the cross country running team. After a few months of training I entered a 5 kilometer race. I was extremely nervous, but I knew that race would prove myself to other people. 97 people entered the race, and I had a reputation of coming in last place in every race I have ever entered. Finally the race began. I started at a quick pace and held it the whole way. I finished the race in a surprising 29 minutes, and made the top 50, at 46th place.

Now I can run straight for 40 minutes, I can bench press 200 lbs. and I can curl 100 lbs. So over one year I was able to lose 35 lbs.

I believe that the keys to losing weight are:

1. Self Determination - I always reminded myself that I was trying to lose weight and that I had to continue my exercice and diet.
2. Proper Nutrition - Before I started working out, I had a couple bowls of ice cream each day. I probably took in nearly 3500 calories a day because of non-stop eating. Now I eat a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast, and I eat vegetables and Ranch Dip or a tuna fish sandwich for lunch. And I eat various small dishes for supper that contain low carbs and high protein. Now I probably take in 1300-1500 calories each day, and I feel great.
3. Proper Exercise - When you are working out, you should apply at least 20 minutes of cardio to your routine. When you lift weights, you should start with a light warm up. Then do any of your muscle-building exercises. Then to finish your workout, do some series of light weight exercises with a lot of reps.

If you follow my plan, it should work out for you. Just remember: Determination, Nutrition, and Exercise.