[RacerBill]

Fascinating thread. Great idea, Newman.

1) What is in your mental arsenal.

For me, it was the day-by-day approach. Once I started, I wanted to see how long I could keep "the streak" going. That mindset helped keep me from caving in when it got more difficult.

2) Secret weapon

I had to think about this for a while, and had a bit of an epiphany when I talked to a friend who expected instant results from a couple weeks of exercise. I developed a sense of persistence and patience from being a musician. No one, not even a child prodigy, picks up an instrument and plays like a pro. It's a skill that is developed over the long term, with daily practice and persistent effort, and even the most talented need to continue to hone their skills. I transferred that understanding to training and diet and it allowed me to understand the big-picture concept even after enduring a lousy workout or a dietary indulgence.

I still am a big proponent of music in our schools because I think that consistent discipline is of enormous benefit to kids.

3) Nemesis

I love food. I'm a huge fan of Food Network and PBS cooking shows and I'm an avid amateur chef with a well-equipped kitchen. I have a passion for learning new techniques and trying new recipes and types of food. If I can channel that energy into "clean" cuisine, great. But that doesn't always happen. I still love cookies, cake, pasta, bread, etc. and it's hard to stay away.