Does This Pack Make Me Look Fat?

The correct answer to that question is "No, your fat makes you look fat!"

I just recently purchased my Dueter 35+ pack.  My brother got me Trekking Poles for Christmas, and I'm ready to start fat packing.  I currently weigh 210 lbs., I should weigh 130.  I am hoping to loose enough weight to fill my backpack by the end of our summer, which would be around 40 lbs.  I am training for a hike into Red Castle in August, and so far, I really enjoy getting in shape.  Whether or not I loose 40 lbs. this summer, I hope to be in good enough shape to start snow shoeing this coming winter.  I know I'm fat, but my goal is not really to become super model skinny.  My main goal is to get in good enough shape to summit King's Peak next summer, and to not jiggle like Santa Claus when I brush my teeth.

I've changed my diet, and I'm eating around 1800 calories a day, 50% from lean protien, 40% from carbs/fiber, and 10% from healthy fats and oils.  Quinoa, Salmon, Pistachios and Pine Nuts are my buddies right now.  This may seem like a lot, especially to people out there who have adopted a low-carb-run-your-ass-off lifestyle.  If it's working for you, super.  I however, can't force myself to run unless I'm being chased by something.  Also, when I want a piece of pie, I'm going to have one.

I am walking/hiking 6 days a week now.  Currently, I walk for 2 hours in the morning and do Power 90 for strength training.  As the weather improves along with my cardiovascular strength, I'm going to increase the amount of time I spend walking/hiking every morning to 3 hours and at least one long day hike per week. This is were my high protein diet comes into play.  You need that kind of protein to keep your muscles going on long hikes.

Now, I know this is extreme.  I don't have a "job" in the sense that I work 8-5, 5 days a week though, and I have the time to do this.  Also, I'm looking for good picture opportunities, and hiking is a great way to do that.  Hiking burns around 500 per hour, and it helps to strengthen your bones and when you use trekking poles it doesn't beat the crap out of your knees like running does.  Did I mention I don't like to run?