I am 36, 6'4" and previous to September, I had never done much of anything physical in my life. I weighed 340 pounds a year ago and 320 in August. That reduction was just from watching diet. In September, I joined a gym and started to do some cardio on the elliptical daily and to do power yoga three days a week. In October, I added a personal trainer and have reduced my weight to 285. I feel the best I have ever in my life.

I work at home as a computing architect for a major company. Even now, I still end up sitting at my computer for 10ish hours per day. I do have some lower back problems that I previously had to see a chiropractor for. Now, Yoga pretty much takes care of my back.

I really like Power Yoga. I think it complements the weight/cardio training that I am doing. Both are better because of the other. It is the closest I have ever felt to graceful and powerful (I have always been the large bull in a china shop).

I travel for work and have discovered Bikram Yoga when I am at the office in Bellevue, WA. What an incredible experience. I am still on the wall about including it into my regular regimen (mainly due to the time/workout intensity ratio, I feel the power yoga is a better workout in less time, Bikram is better relax and stretch).

My favorite thing about both Bikram and Power yoga is how they train you to be in the moment, integrating mind and body. Previously, I never even thought about my body unless I had a headache or backache. Being present, aware, and in control of breath is a gift.

I am completely hooked on yoga, and will do it for the rest of my life. I am looking at moving to San Francisco area and I can't wait to explore the rich yoga culture there. I am so indebted to my wife, Kristin, and my friend, Andrea, for encouraging me to get into shape and for introducing me to yoga.

Yoga pet peeve
Belly fat and my flat feet. I have recently lost about 35 pounds and still have about 30 more to lose. I feel like I am flexible enough for many poses that I can't actually do because I still have to much belly fat in the way. I know it is just a matter of time, but it is still frustrating. I also really struggle with balance poses due to extremely flat feet. They cramp all the time.

Who would you most like to roll out your mat beside?
I would love to roll my mat out between my wife, Kristin, (when she recovers from surgery) and my friend Andrea (because she inspired me to start yoga).