6 Pack Abs - I FAILED and why you might too

[@shiftnsix]

You have to be the most relatable fitness advocate on KZbin. The authenticity, self awareness and pragmatism in this video is so refreshing to see. I’ve only recently started following you, but I have benefited tremendously from your content. Thank you for reminding us all that the only comparison we should make is to who we were yesterday, and not The Rock or Arnold or any other superhuman marketing mule.

[@alexanderdeadmansche]

I agree

[@Will00110]

agreed 100%! Watching celebrities and comparing themselves to you does nothing! Probably only harms progress ....

[@cosmo5076]

You inspired me today to run my first 5k from one of your vids! Took me over 50 mins and had to walk and break a lot but I still feel great so thank you Edit: I'm on the couch to 5k plan now (my own version) and I'm gonna use this comment to track my progress 2nd 5k: 37:33

[@TWROC96]

Excellent work! Keep going.

[@glaucusyellow]

Good job!

[@oz_jones]

Crushing it!

[@WannabeDough]

What's your 5km at now?

[@feli9537]

now??

[@cyclingnerddelux698]

Your self-reflective take is refreshing. At 56, I've learned i need to care less about how I look and more about how far (fast) I can ride given my training schedule. Keep the content coming! 💪👍

[@pooguy7480]

Yes! I feel like people are getting too focused on aesthetics these days. I’d much prefer being able to perform well and be versatile as a human being than just being good at certain resistance exercises.

[@freitas209]

thats why i just subed

[@Will00110]

Yep! Athletic Performance should be ahead of anything as the main priority of life is to be alive!

[@mancunianinlondon]

Hi Mark, I have only just seen this video. I think that's an incredible transformation for a mere 8 weeks. You did it in my opinion! Success! Your definition shows an incredible change. Most guys in their 20's don't have your body. Definitely shows it can be done. Gives everyone, no matter what weight or build, encouragement

[@korganrocks3995]

Yeah, I laughed at him saying he's probably above average for his age... as if 99% of guys in their 20s wouldn't consider a 2½ pack an improvement! :D

[@MattLeech]

"a small increase in effort results in a huge increase in satisfaction", that's the best observational motivating expression I've heard in a long time. I'll be repeating that to my friends and family that struggle with exercising consistently. Thank you!

[@empyrionin]

Pareto principle

[@Will00110]

So well said, it helps pushing threw difficult moments knowing how proud you'd be of yourself

[@paulstirk4964]

Just found this channel. I'm 65 and had a heart attack for my 63rd birthday. Weighed in at the hospital 92kg. 18 months later down to 72 kg with a bit o f definition but still look to emulate Jeff from Athlean-x. Just as you found, I'm never going to be strict enough to get there but I like to keep it as a goal.

[@tanizaki]

You’d also need PEDs to look like Jeff.

[@michael7324]

FYI- Jeff from Athlean-x is a beast as you know. Keep up the good work.

[@gruensein]

Just stumbled across this channel when looking for Wahoo Kickr Core reviews and realized: This guy is awesome. Very down to earth and entertaining. The overall message of being ambitious while remaining realistic when it comes to the standard we all measure ourselves against is spot on IMHO. I, as a still pretty average cyclist, appreciate that.

[@JD4896]

I just wanted to let you know that after watching this series consecutively, I have come to an amazing insight. I too, a 47-year-old guy who still looks pretty good and fit for his age, set the wrong goals. Form over function so to speak. Your experience has made me realize that I was pursuing the wrong goals. Instead of an aesthetic goal, I will now pursue functional goals which, in combination with a balanced diet, will automatically result in my body in the most suitable shape. And that's what it should be about: function over form. Thanks for this insight from a like-minded person ;-)

[@chrispauls6759]

Great comment. I'm trying to adopt that attitude, too! At 53, I like Mark, wish my results at trying to achieve a 6-pack looked better, but dieting to the brink of feeling starved was robbing me of performance and killing my attitude and outlook. Since relaxing that goal, all my running times are down. My calisthenics achievements are up, and my outlook is rosier. Do I still wish I had Brad Pitt abs? Of course, but I'm trying to enjoy performing at a higher level and feeling better.

[@BRNDMYR]

You should also follow The Bioneer here on KZbin.

[@Lescoureursfoudelasco]

What an epic transformation from two years ago, I had no idea, well done! I think I’ll change my goals to just fitting in a medium T shirt, looks great and can be displayed in public!

[@MarkLewisfitness]

2 years ago was a LONGGGGG time ago 😂

[@frkzoid]

When I joined the gym more than 3 months ago, I had every intention of getting a six pack before I turned 55. Going through the process however, my priorities changed. My goal now is to keep getting fitter and healthier through eating clean, weights and cardio. The six pack will eventually happen as my core builds but getting healthier is the priority.

[@rgh622]

I am a 55-year-old man who just lost 75 pounds (34 kilos) over the last 5 months (caloric deficit program). I have been running and strength training for the last month and I am very happy with my results thus far. Over my life, I have set goals and achieved some, and failed at others. My weight loss journey has always been about recording this and watching that monitor and comparing charts ultimately losing interest and falling back into my old ways. This time I have just trusted the process by following the rules, hour by hour, day by day, and week by week. Behold, 6 months in and it's working for me! A year will pass whether you do something or do nothing. Do something and see what it looks like a year later. Happy achievements all! Love your channel Mark, very motivating to be the best me I can be.

[@colinswan786]

Your honest self-reflection shows more about you than anything else. Well done. But in seriousness, well done and an awesome transformation over the period. Cliffhanger... what a movie!

[@MarkLewisfitness]

🙏 and you’re right about cliff hanger 😀

[@30mattdavies]

Mark, I think you’re being hard on yourself. You’re in fantastic shape and we’re oh so close. What’s going against you is that you serve two masters (nothing wrong with that as you want to be above average in what you do- across a multitude of disciplines) and extreme cardio and weights do not go hand in hand. Some of six pack ab development is all about thickness too. When you’re in a Deficit and training as you do, for the normal person minus TRT you would have stripped so much more off. I think you did a great job at what you did and as always- top content!

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Thanks Matt 🙏

[@bazadam6635]

That was my thought - cardio and weight training and possibly over training. I am talking from experience. I am a super below average skinny fat guy. I started doing some weight training plus running. I wasn't going anywhere. Then I stopped the running altogether because I got interested in higher vertical jump. That made me do purely weight training and mostly different kinds of squats. Turns out I shed more fat in 3 months than I did in 7 months doing cardio and weight. Then the pandemic hit and now I am back to a potato. Although I just got myself a smart trainer.

[@femimacaulay4547]

Yep, agree with you that Mark has done an outstanding job in 8 weeks, and is being a bit hard on himself. Well done to @Mark Lewis (and I love your style and content and just subscribed to your channel). As far as the comment that 'extreme cardio' and weights can't go hand in hand, I beg to differ. This common misperception has been debunked many times. If you don't think so, check out Nick Bare on KZbin. And if you think Nick Bare is an exception that proves the rule, go and look up the athletes at the Crossfit Games.

[@bazadam6635]

@@femimacaulay4547 I think there are two things at play here and where this 'misconception' comes from. First - if you specialise in something, i.e. weight or cardio - you will get more benefits than doing both at the same time. Pure weight training are for those who want muscles and pure cardio of for those who want to cycle or run or swim. Second - which is more effective in burning fats and building abs? Cardio/Weight or simply cardio or simply weight. I would argue simple weight, especially when doing compound exercises such as squats (explosively) and abs exercises. You are still burning a lot of calories while building pure muscles. Therefore, burning those fats plus building the muscles. Not making the difference between those I believe have led to this 'misconception'. Mark has done both at a good level yes but it is not necessarily the best method to achieve the results he wanted.

[@femimacaulay4547]

@@bazadam6635 want to know what the best method to build abs is? Not weights, not cardio...it's your diet! Mark Lewis knows this, and that was the point he was emphasising in his video. As for which is more effective to burn fats - cardio+weights vs cardio alone vs weights alone - you can literally find 100s if not 1000s of videos on that debate on KZbin, some from folks who really know their stuff on this subject. As a lifelong non-professional athlete (boxing, taekwondo, ultrarunnning, cycling) I can tell you from my experience that both cardio and weights will help you burn fat, but if your goal is to get those 6-pack abs then the right diet trumps them both.

[@constantinLu_]

I'm 32 and I always did some sport in my life, football, running, fitness, running, cycing. I'm somewhere above average. But with your authentic and true content that shows the real life with ups and downs, motivates me to just keep up going in order to keep a healthy life and at 70 yo to walk 4 level to reach my apartment without an issue and play with my gradchilds without any pain and just joy. ! Keep on going.

[@reedclippings8991]

The most profound thing I've heard from any fitness channel is your acknowledgement of and gratitude for what you have going in your favor. No successful person is 100% responsible for their successes. I'd argue nobody is more than 60-70% responsible... but we can all improve ourselves. We are 100% responsible for our commitment to improving.

[@severussin]

The realistic approach this channel takes is its uniqueness. Thank you. ✌🏾

[@richardboyne5074]

Great video Mark , you are right with fitness influencers showing unrealistic goals that they achieve with unhealthy diets, dehydration and often steroid use !

[@Jaxyboy2006]

I appreciate the honesty mark! You are definatly way above average for a 47 year old man! 😂 most people dont understand the dedication and even the time it takes to get where they want to be!

[@ktreanor1970]

I've been consuming fitness content on KZbin for the last 8+ years and I'm just finding your channel now. You have quickly become one of my favorite "fitness influencer" Please keep up with the great material and so so jokes ;)

[@bootneck7093]

Superb content & presentation, Mark. Your videos really resonate and inspire. I am 52 yrs old 5'11 96kg to 80kg in 9 months. Body fat dropped from 26% to 20% - so much happier with better sleep/rest, better diet and focussed training (mainly static bike & free weights) - I aim for 'above average' - it's a great mantra! Many thanks for the channel! JC😎

[@Dustii91]

This video absolutely skyrocketed my respect for you. As you mentioned, the ethos of your channel is key. And this message needs to be spread to so many people, especially the younger generation.. I must be honest and say in terms of mentorship, you're absolutely #1 on KZbin🤘🏽

[@LEGENDofBEANY]

I’m here watching this because I can’t sleep (happens to me when I’m in a rather decent calories deficit). 38, and looking to get in the best shape of my life. This is hard. Great video!

[@riichobamin7612]

Hello Mr. Lewis. Thank you so much for you work. I am a 5'9" guy who weigh 95 kgs and your video about running heavy and this video has really helped me out. I have herniated discs in my lumbar region and I want to go back to practicing MMA again. Your advice about having realistic expectations is just what I need to hear. Thanks a lot 👍🏻

[@glaucusyellow]

Good luck my man!

[@riichobamin7612]

@@glaucusyellow thanks bro 👍🏻❤️

[@amandaosgood]

Loved this one. I am that person who is sucked in constantly although I do really know that I am not willing to give up enough of my life to get the result that I am unrealistically aiming for. I have been around my maintenance weight for the last 27 years without realising it but I do like the idea of a thresh hold limit. I am going to set myself achievable expectations and be happy with them instead of always being on the look out for the next programme. Thank you.

[@Dietah131]

Thanks for all the great content Mark. Just wanted to let you know that they serve as an inspiration for me personally. I'm 1m88 and 34 years old. A month and a half ago my weight was around 125kg and now I'm at around 117kg. I bought Zwift, bought a smart trainer, started to watch what I eat (mostly vegan now) and working hard to fight my cravings. Your video's helped a lot and now on my way to be a healthier dad for my 4 year old son. I'm still a long way off my goal but I'm patient to become above average. Keep the inspiration coming!

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Awesome to hear. And I'm super jealous because I wish I started at 34 😂 (Also, back then I would have been the only fitness KZbinr out there so it would've made views easier too😄)

[@stewijones738]

@@MarkLewisfitness Hi Mark, accidentally stumbled across this video and felt compelled to post. First you definitely didn’t fail, eight weeks is perhaps too short a time to achieve your goal. Looking at your condition and level of fitness you can get a six pack if that’s what you really want but at what cost? I think best to just focus on lifting weights around 4 to 5 times a week and just light cardio if you really want, then you need to be strict with what you eat, very little alcohol, high protein, cut out refined carbs sugars etc and eat in a deficit until body fat comes down to at least 12%, doesn’t always suit people with family as you pretty much have to eat separately to get this lean. I’m 50 and lean but prep all my own meals and partner thinks it’s a bit strange, I focus on just lifting weights and do no cardio which again might not suit you. Also if you get really lean like under 10% you won’t feel comfortable low libido etc so not always desirable to have abbs year round

[@Tcoldsteel]

Well done, mate. Keep it up

[@alisonsezonov1420]

Great video. Fitness influencers on many platforms that I’ve seen are ‘not fit, athletic or sporty.’ They are more fitness models, which operfectly ok. But they are not ‘athletes.’ I got the perfect body, but agree there is nothing carefree about it. With exercise 6 days a week it was a very restrictive, boring diet, that often maintained a ‘look’ but not my athletic performance. I like now still being fit, flat stomach but more body fat. I like you are a bit older but still looked to social media and thought i could look like that, ended up working hard, looked like them and hated it! Love your humour and how you present these relevant fitness topics

[@mikeo3857]

Excellent and very timely video for me, l am fast approaching 60 years old and this year dropped from 116kg to current weight of 93kg, l cycle around 180-200 kilometres a week, and in the early stages l was very much addicted to KZbin fitness videos, in an attempt to lose my fat stomach which seems to love staying with me regardless of what l eat or how much l train. In my younger days l got my run time down to a 19 minute 5k, l now need to understand that this would be impossible. l just need to remain active and while l can push myself l need to also remember l am not training for an event but more importantly to increase health and longevity. Thank you for an excellent vide keep them coming.

[@sidmartin4677]

Just watched your video never seen any of your stuff before so thanks, started my journey a few years back but got more motivated during Covid as had time, built my gym in garage and started working out yoga in morning and a workout or swim in afternoon, after a year of this I finally have a 2 pack 😂 thought I was mad continuously banging my head against the wall but managed to get back into my RAF uniform for my daughter’s wedding (an achievement). I have continued trying to believe in the process you’re right to think I could achieve a 4 pack was a bit much 😂 but I will continue and see, watching the tubers just stripping off fat is crazy I’m in month 12 now diet is pretty good training within my limits (I need a new hip) is manageable but seeing the minuscule results is the hard bit but down from 230 pounds to 218 a pound a month 😂 so glad to see it ISN’T easy gives me motivation to carry on in my 57th year so thanks

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Slow but steady is the way. But sounds like you are well underway 👍🏼 Good going

[@perro0076]

Nice one. That work-life balance is quite a thing for mere mortals. Life does get in the way. Those people with the ripped bodies do not have desk jockey jobs. They have most of their days to do exercise. I only have a small window during lunch and a slightly bigger one at the end of my working day. My guidance is Newtonian theory. The heavier one is, the slower things become. Playing golf is a big help as it really tests one’s patience and character. The mental side of things.

[@MrRickle]

Just found you and your videos are fantastic and is helping this 50 year old get back in shape realistically.

[@shanebauer1359]

This is a really unique video in fitness KZbin. Super appreciated! Thanks, mark.

[@justinbrown471]

Great advice, Mark. Really appreciate all the information very relevant for 95% of the population.

[@Lurgeek]

unapologetically you. we need more of this energy on the internet. you also inspired me to run again and it indirectly inspired my partner too

[@muralist_]

Doing very well, if I may give a little compliment. I'll turn 47 this year too and I've been into a very solid fitness and weight lifting discipline since 2020 and the only 'issue' I'm struggling with is actually the same one you present in this vid. What I found out is that the time span we need at this age, to get rid of those leftover fatties, can be taken much wider as if we where doing it at age 30 or so. Most fitness tutorials on the subject are focussed on what is general when being younger, not when being 40+, so that information might be confusing and not feeding the right expectations. But... In my case talking long, daily walks (10-15K steps) and shifting from 3 meals to 2 meals a day giving me a slightly calorie deficit, does the job. Slowly, but constantly the belly fat leftover melts and disappears. Focus, discipline, patience. The keywords. 🙂

[@lydsrod4933]

Damn Mark! Thank you. I just finished a triathlon where I was kept all night worried about the 750yard open water swim. Once I accomplished that, all I can see is that I looked like a big ass sausage in my wetsuit. This was a great accomplishment for me. Thank you for reminding me to appreciate the little things. Onward and upward, next year will be a healthier, leaner, more “above average” year for me. Thank you!

[@pdal1380]

Very inspiring, thank you. I'm 60 and still pursuing greatness.

[@alliedickinson6026]

I've watched so many of your videos to motivate my weight loss and the thing that prompted me to comment was... the Teen Wolf reference. Excellent work.

[@patcarroll280]

Smashing it again Mark. I'm a 55 year old runner and, due to being picked on at school for being chubby ( called "pilsberry dough man"), I have struggled with body image all my life. What i see in the mirror probably isn't what other people see. Nice to hear a rational voice bud. Keep up the good work.

[@federicopanichi9874]

I pass(ed) trough exactly the same situation in the last two years. Wanted to get ripped and muscular and faster and more stamina...I recall I was running every single day, hitting gym, walking trough Manchester's channels for hours and hours...no abs, no results thus I was cutting even more cals and packing even more activities, no abs. At the end, I realised that as it took 10 yrs to an extremely talented and gifted runner to run sub-2 h marathon I can't expect that, me, an average person, can get everything in 2 months. Dedication, patience and calibrate my goals helped me significantly in this (ongoing) journey. Very appreciated video Mark.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

If you want to check out the whole 8 week journey - episode 1 is here : kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZSbiqSHedujabs 😁 I suggest enjoying with a coffee and slice of cake 🤣

[@tadeuszdolkowski]

That's a smashing content. I'm 35 and have been struggling to set a lasting goal for myself. Through school I've been a total looser compared to me peers, however sort of enjoyed sport in general. Over the years I suppose I'm over average in terms of looks and performance but my connection to activity is to much of a on-of one. I'll go a month on being active and happy about it and then a minor pain comes and I would leave it all for 3 months. Your content brought joy to moving my body. Thank you

[@siming6]

Spot on!!! I’m preparing for my first IM at the age of 40, and facing similar conflicting goals. Thanks for this self reflection session!

[@rionfindlay2236]

Love your work Mark. You produce great content...very level headed, despite the remarkable athlete you are. I have watched many of your videos and plan to watch them all. I'm currently on a challenge to do 2000kms of cycling in a month, 65km per day average. It is tough trying to achieve balance while doing so, but I'm on track....453kms in, but 25 more days to go, keeping up the momentum and not burning out.

[@emilybemily4397]

I admire your honesty and frank discussion of issues. I'm finding you quite inspirational and motivating. (I know this is an old video but your words are still relevant). I've just seen in another, current video, that you are off to Turkey. Have a great time. :)

[@SantoRedentor]

One man's failure is another man's "unreachable objective". I am 33 and I would gladly sign to have you abs and muscles. For the moment I am recovering from a shoulder surgery and I started running again after being 9 years off due to two inguinal hernias (and 2 surgeries) that left me with chronic pain that only recently started to recede somewhat.

[@leandrosantos32]

Glad I stumbled upon your channel, Mark. Great content!

[@JohnBrown-wk4io]

Congratulations on your wedding. I wish you & your lovely bride the best. I remember reading that Arnold struggled with many of his scenes while filming Conan the Barbarian because his physique was not designed to swing a sword around. More people need to see this vid to keep from being trapped in self defeating unrealistic expectations.

[@Oggymandias]

Very important video. You have a terrific physique for your age, that is probably better than 99.9% of the population above 45. Expectations today are completely busted by unrealistic standards set by people using steroids and/or photoshop and selling it as natural. I myself started going back into sports 5 years ago after a 10 year period of getting fat in my 20s. I lost more than 25 kg and am getting close to seeing abdominal muscles again but I am not sure I will actually achieve a proper sixpack ever again. Props to you for making good and honest videos, you earned the subscription.

[@glimtart]

Spot on. Thanks for sharing and keeping the perspective real.

[@jorisk9873]

Just found your channel and I have watched quite a few of your videos because they are informative, funny, motivational and very honest. Unlike fitness adverts and instagram pictures where the other half an ab that you said you were missing, is drawn on, with specific lighting to add shadows to highlight muscle definition and models are encouraged to dehydrate (apparently) I would much rather spend my time watching realistic and honest videos of someone who has made some huge changes to their lifestyle and physique which are actually achievable with some amount of effort than any of the others influencers out there. Watching your channel has given me the motivational kick up the bum that I definitely needed!

[@alberttresslevic914]

I'm glad you took the time to share your experiences. I tried a similar thing a couple years ago and ended up the same. At 179cm and 71kg I thought I'd have popping abs, and I did not want to go any leaner, my wife was already unhappy! And I was fit at that weight, benching 95kg and deadlifting 140kg for reps and running a half marathon every weekend in around 90mins, so not an untrained twig, but where were my 6 pack abs?! I felt cheated 🤣

[@danielmackenzie680]

I find it useful Mark. I'm 41 and have always been fit but I've always wanted to be built like a super hero. I'm in better shape than anyone I meet and know but I'm still not happy🤣. If I'm talking to my friends to help them get fit I always give them far more realistic goals. I should listen to myself sometimes 🤣

[@kimbrink8257]

As a 27 y/o female from South Africa, I'm probably not your target audience, but your video just made me remember what I have so I'd call that a success About 2 years ago I entered the world of triathlon - because I wanted to achieve my dream body. I lost the weight, but also my period, my sleep, my mental health, my comfort, and gained a whole bunch of disordered behaviour. I'm now a year on from burnout and RED-S recovery, gained about 10% body weight, but my HRV is up by 24 points; I have an actual cycle; my appetite is regulated; AND I can run marathons and cycle 200km. That's pretty good going. Thanks for the reminder, 2 years on!

[@MarkLewisfitness]

If you enjoyed the video, and find it useful…. You are 100% target audience!

[@MotoguyX5]

I love seeing your realistic, level headed approach to fitness. And actual fitness, not just looking aesthetic. This is something that even though I know I struggle with. As you said, I want to look like a Greek god while being an amazing runner, sprint fast, and pull off sweet calestenics moves. Most if not all of these things are contradictory, especially as I want to remain natural. Great video, subbed!

[@NomadeDigital]

I like the honesty of your videos, managing expectations, shifting goals, the whole above average mentality, this is going to be a great channel.

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Thanks.....it's getting there slowly 😁

[@blackcyclist]

The best before/after photos are taken 2 mins apart 💪🏿😂👍🏿 Love these videos, keep em coming.

[@DMC69DMC]

Your progress was amazing to me. You started from a pretty good place and in 8 weeks you made marked and significant progress.. with a self-admitted less than 100% focus. Imagine if you spent 16 or 24 or even 52 weeks, focused 100% .. I'm pretty sure you'd be even more ripped. You already have a great foundation. Not suggesting you should, but to me, seeing your progress in just 8 weeks is a definite success, and you did it in a sustainable way.. keep up the videos.

[@jasonmccallum9731]

Refreshing to hear a no BS reflection on your progress and feelings. Well done from down under, please keep It up . Jason

[@paulmulryne8405]

New to the channel. About the same age and this all makes sense. Building muscle at 48 without trt seems like a waste of time, but keeping healthily lean and having a healthy heart in conjunction with trying to stay strong and having fun makes sense.

[@jasfiona]

Thanks for your commitment to your channel Mark I really do appreciate your videos A few days ago, I watched one of your videos on the Fenix 7 (Pro, I think), when you were comparing with the 6 Pro. I've watched a few more since and shared a few In my opinion, for my situation, you're just the right kind of influencer/suggestor/adviser/teacher (or even a perfect remote/pseudo mentor). I'm a very keen cyclist, avid walker and occasional runner. I've had a basic Garmin device for nearly 5 years now. I do enjoy tech and would consider myself an early adopter. However, I thought that these kind of devices were just a gimmick, with unreliable, (or at least arbitrary), data, so of very little use to myself. The decision to disregard any fitness tech whatsoever isn't solely based on my passionate and determined reluctance to follow the crowd. As a musician, most of my disposable income ends up in that department, although to be fair, I have got 7 bikes, lots of kit and 56 pairs of various shoes! Anyway? I've just bought an old style Enduro at a great price, for pure convenience, just to see how the size of these watches works. If think my next purchase would then by the next generation of Fenix in a few years. I do like the 7's light feature, but couldn't just the price when I'm considering my next guitar acquisition. Thanks again. I will be watching more of your sensibly practical videos to gain many more top tips and crucially encouragement.

[@KeenanModica]

You have the best videos on KZbin related to fitness

[@michalswierkosz12]

I appreciate your work and the effort you put into helping your audience.

[@1I9C7G7]

At the age of 43 I've just started working out for the first time in my life. I'm 6.2 and about 90kg. I've never been overly big but could see the middle age spread starting so decided to no something about it. Your videos and attitude to fitness and everything is inspiring and got me motivated. I've made a little indoor gym with main attraction being a bike fitted to a turbo trainer. I'm now on it most days and can really feel the difference. My eating habits have really change no more rubbish is bought. So if not bought it can't be eaten 🙂. The Mrs has been vegan for a while so that might be my next step but that would be a big one 😟. Anyway keep pushing and try not to make a super human that can do everything and specialise in one thing 👍

[@MarkLewisfitness]

A vegan wife......thats only a matter of time dude....enjoy your burgers while you can 🍔🤣

[@patrickaherne1274]

The only genuine fitness KZbinr 🙌

[@IgorG89]

I totally understand you, trying to combine lifting, mountaineering and swimming for years. Just try to enjoy what you are doing, progress slowly and don't compare yourself to pro's: we have family and job to take care about.

[@acerld519]

Surprising to find someone in the KZbin 'fitness' sphere (I appreciate you might not identify with that label) talk so much sense.

[@Ifraneljadida]

I've been the college, 6'2" guy with a shredded six pack and incredible physique. I was a college variety lacrosse player my freshman year. I can tell you that it took years to get to that point. Also, for good photos, it normally took some type of speed (drugs to not eat/tons of energy) and cold water to get it to look that way. I also believe I have very good genetics. If you aren't a full time athlete like I was it's nearly impossible to do. I could only maintain it for short periods of time in high school/college when my metabolism was super revved up

[@oz_jones]

Lighting is also CRUCIAL.

[@jeffs9892]

Excellent video , just found your channel and at 50 year’s old your content what’s spot on, the balancing act between work/life family . Thoroughly enjoyed your delivery, you couldn’t have said it better.. One thing I have learned is to appreciate the small things , means more in the long run.

[@sweetwilly125]

great realty check thanks nice to see somebody being honest on hear

[@DavidSmith-yj4gt]

At 58 myself I have a hard time trying to fit in all the sports activities I love to do, I’ve had 2 stem cell operations for leukaemia in the past 12 years (now in remission) but have never stopped training… I do weights 4 times per week, running 4 t p w, cycling 4 t p w, martial arts 3 t p w among other activities as well, obviously I’m over training but I just enjoy doing it…. So why not ?? Thanks for the entertaining videos Mark keep it up 💪👏👍

[@felix1974]

You've done well mate. I'm a little way behind you at 47 and have noticed how much stricter I have to be to maintain visible abs than I did , even at say 40. Only just found your channel and love it. Very relevant for me. Like you I want to be good at everything 🙂

[@speedwobble5383]

Good video fella. Just discovered the channel last week and it's pretty refreshing. Keep up the good work!

[@hankschrader2353]

That's great progress and you shared some thoughtful insights. Thanks!

[@haroldhdknoxstreet-glide5331]

The results are definitely good 👍 most of all Your opinions are pretty much on point as far as I can say from my 38 years of doing sports mostly bike cross running and a little swimming…including up to 7 weight workouts in a gym for about 12 years 😎💪 thanks 🙏 again for the honest work and motivation I’m very grateful 😊

[@abrahamjoffe9361]

Mark, great channel. Love your ethos. You are also a fantastic communicator. I'm turning 40 in July. Was 106kg pre covid and now sit at 85kg. I wish I'd found your channel earlier... might have made the journey easier. ps - you deserve more than the 80 odd thousand subscribers you currently have. Keep producing this great content!

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Thanks 🙏 and congrats on your weight loss, great numbers 👍🏼

[@frohman10]

Thanks for this healthy reminder. Much appreciated.

[@stuartthurstan]

I'm far from being an expert on this so I guess I'm setting myself up for a roasting, but I heard somewhere that some people will never have a six pack just because of genetics. The classic six pack isn't six individual muscles, but rather one large muscle separated into sections. Some people have six sections, neatly and symmetrically divided. Other people may have a different number of divisions. So, the perfect six pack may simply not be achievable for some of us. Another great video Mark. I just subscribed as I really enjoy your content. I am not in the least bit interested in my body aesthetic but I do love running and being physically "capable". All my goals are focused on a certain level of performance and capability, and as a pleasing side effect, I've noticed that my body is looking better and better.

[@robjones2613]

Just Perfect 👍 👍👍👍 so refreshing I think we’ve all been there to some degree. Great vid.

[@shaundavies8503]

Only stumbled across your channel but one of my go to channels now. Awesome content 🏃🏻👍🏻💪🏻

[@calm.aware.]

Truth bombs left and right. Great content. Thank you!

[@BHarris25]

I’ve never had visible abs, I’ve been skipping rope and running my ass off and eating a calorie deficit since Jan 1st trying to get as lean and shredded as possibly by my 42nd birthday at the end of May. I’m nowhere near seeing abs yet, but I have lost about 27 lbs since Jan 1st and toned up a lot, plus I’ve taken my 1 mile run time from 13:57 on Jan 1st down to 8:36 yesterday which is my fastest ever because I never ran faster than 9 mins because I was fat in high school too. Still have plenty of time, I’ll be pretty happy if I get anywhere close to what you look like in fact I’m already thrilled at my results. I used to wear a size 42 waist and now my size 34 are loose. At my heaviest I was 285 and currently I’m at 190.

[@NNICKKK]

that's amazing man 👍

[@BHarris25]

@@NNICKKK 182 today

[@Dwoollam]

I have tried on a number of occasions to get that ripped 6 pack. Like you I never get there. While I think all your points are correct, there are 2 that stick out more to me. The laser like focus on weights and strength training. Like you I like to do a myriad of sports and that doesn’t always lend itself to bodybuilding. Second is genetics. We are all different and the holy grail of a 6 pack is not possible for some. Just take a look at the Rock. Massive and a mega star but no 6 pack. From this video I would say the real achievement is the legs. You may not have the 6 pack but the legs are nuts. Well done on being so candid and having the balls to strip off on KZbin. I have no KZbin following and wouldn’t dare do what you have done. Really great video. I also have a 3.5 pack.

[@Dwoollam]

Well, interestingly and since I stopped cutting my calories so much. I am now near to a six pack. I can see 6. Not mega defined but close.

[@mikecollins2333]

Perfect timing. I've been training for a year with my coach for Alps Epic. 5 days mtb xc in the Alps in June. Riding training and strength training going really well but still not where I thought I would be physic wise. This video is just what I needed to help me realise how far I've come. Thank you.

[@mistyfiello5262]

I got back into running after getting a pacemaker in my late 30s. The road to health has been really really hard. I love this realistic approach to getting healthy. It’s so easy to get discouraged when you see huge gains but not as big as you think you should see!

[@MarkLewisfitness]

Realistic and optimistic .... A nice balance of the two and you are good to go😁

[@chrislowe3060]

Love this video! I’m 51 and raced bikes in my youth and ran several ultras in my 30s and 40s. However the pandemic, kids and other obligations have caused my fitness to absolutely tank. Got a Wahoo Kickr to hopefully get me back on the right path. Also if you need a role model for how to look: David Goggins. Need a cycling role model: David Goggins. Need a running role model: David Goggins. ;)

[@stevef2114]

He’s not normal lol

[@justdo2801]

i am happy enough was the perfect statement!!! that should be anybody's goal.

[@chrisholstein7587]

Awesome video - at 50 this is me, I weightlifter, run, and ride. Not extremely great at any but good at all. Great perspective.

[@jef.hutchby944]

Nice going Mark. I'm 10 years further down the line than you.. ( ok and a bit slower and a slight bit shorter ) but your content is excellently scalable and relevant and I'm finding it very useful and informative when setting my own expectations. Cheers fella.

[@ChrisP978]

Being a great all rounder is kind of a nice place to be. You can't be "the best" like a specialist can, but you can be better than most at just about everything. Physique wise you are probably top 5% of British men your age so I'd call that winning.

[@calebpoirier751]

I really appreciate that you are applying wisdom to fitness. Keep this sort of content coming. We all need to hear more of it. Yes, we should stretch ourselves, however constantly living in longing and self dissatisfaction is unhealthy. Celebrating one’s successes no matter how small leads to willingness to take on new challenges. Celebrating each other leads to company on this difficult road of life: I celebrate your remarkable health and your talent in encouraging others to grow.

[@ZuluTango9]

Brilliant video. And in an odd way, very motivational, given you were talking about not achieving what you wanted. The message “be realistic, it’s ok” is a good one. You are right about social media, it makes you believe that being ripped is normal these days and easily achieved. When it’s not for the vast majority. One thing though, you are actually not that normal 😂 (in a positive way). The time you put in to achieve what you have (I saw your video earlier detailing your weekly training) and the consistency is way above average. You are however realistic and transparent, showing and talking about what it actually takes to get where you want to be. We’ll deserved too 👍🏻

[@tweedledee4605]

what an absolute smashing vid. Great content

[@frankhirsch7343]

Your philosophy reminded me if the book “The gap and the gain” by Benjamin Hardy. The book has had an impact on my life. Your videos are great.

[@B33t_R007]

Man, we are in the exact same situation LOL i feel you. after 3 months of real effort, i have pretty much the same build as you, lost about 12kg, upper abs clearly visible, still some bulk on the lower abs (and a bit of lose skin). i know how it feels to look in the mirror, with evil light, and not be happy with the way it looks, even though for most, it looks more than fine. it gets even worse when trying to make selfie pix with a cellphone. two days ago i asked a female employee at the gym her opinion, if she thinks im progressing, or if i get too skinny or what. she was like "are you nuts, you look freaking amazing! really muscular". LOL. that really helped me. having almost no positive feedback from outside is also difficult. and i'm preparing for my future wife to move in, in about 2 months, still got some time 😁 we got even similar motiviation. 😀

[@ENGRAINING]

she's paid to tell you that so you continue the gym membership. ask someone not employed by the gymnasium.

[@B33t_R007]

@@ENGRAINING haha, yes, i was thinking that too. altough i believe she was honest, she's not the type. but i got some very positive feedback later on from other sides, for example from gym acquaintance that i haven't seen in like 3 months. i believe, some are suspicious of the progress, i've lost 12kg and actually got quiet a bit stronger, but that's result of being very focused in this effort.

[@andrewbonhomme8069]

Great points in the middle of that. Those last few % of the goals aren’t always worth the % of things you give up

[@luiscaminero9145]

4:12 This is something that I needed to hear

[@jarrodclyne707]

'I'm happy enough' - That is the key message here. Well done.

[@kyleinwisc]

This is why Greg Ducettes videos are so great. He gives you an extremely realistic view of what people can expect with fitness.

[@larryphotography]

Great video, very relatable! Let me start by saying that by my standards you look pretty ripped and I think anybody should feel happy about that, certainly you! As a photographer I can say that a lot of "looking ripped" has to do do with lighting setups. I also have learned that models wanting to show their six pack let themselves dehydrate quite a bit and do other tricks to get their muscles and abs really showing. Check out Browny's channel to get some tips on that. I'd love to see you consult with somebody who understands the tricks and the lighting and then see your transformation! Keep up the great work you're an inspiration!

[@chrishopper8370]

Fantastic vlog Mark! Puts achievable back in my vocabulary. You hit so many nails in this vlog on your explanation of ‘it’s not the norm’. I see friends taking drugs that mimic insulin because guys in amazing shape swear by them, but it’s such a false promise. Keep smashing these amazing addictive life accounts out!!