After trying one Insanity workout with Jimmy Nelson the week before, I knew that this Insanity workout would be intense - no matter which workout they would do. The reason why I say THEY is because I did not workout.
I filmed it.
The previous month at Chelsea Studios, I filmed everyone working out to P90X's "Core Synergistics" workout. I had a hunch that the Insanity workout would be intense.
It was.
It was a hot day. My bus didn't arrive, so I drove in. I rushed to get over to Chelsea Studios, and I was sweating by the time I arrived (about 15 minutes into the workout). I walked in, the folks who knew me smiled, and one person said, "How are you sweating and you're not working out?"
I pulled out the videocamera and I started filming.
Insanity is VERY EXTREME! I had already done one workout, so I knew it was difficult.
During the workouts, we turn the lights of the room off, and project the video onto a wall so it's easier for everyone to see.
EVERYONE at the workout worked hard, they did MORE than their best, and they kept right at it throughout the workout. Even though the room was hot, I was sweating just being there. It may have looked as though the intensity of the workout had me sweating.
I have to give everyone at the workout credit for DOING the workout, and for what they did afterwards. We turned the lights on, and they repeated four exercises - specifically so it is easier to view the exercises. These four exercises were intense, and fortunately they did each exercise no more than 5-10 seconds each.
Since I knew that this workout would be intense, I wanted to have intense music to go along with it.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Sunday, August 16, 2009
2941calories
That's not referring to how many calories I have eaten, it refers to how many calories I have BURNED throughout today.
I put on the bodybugg (which measures your calories burned, number of steps taken, and length of physical activity) and the heart rate monitor (which measures your maximum heart rate, minimum heart rate, and average heart rate), ate breakfast, and caught a bus to New York City for a Turbo Kick workout with Kelly Nelson.
Kelly Nelson is a certified turbo kick instructor, and she is also a TeamBeachbody Coach.
Let me tell you that this workout was INTENSE. Here are some stats to prove that:
- calories burned: 2091
- maximum heart rate: 193bpm
- average hart rate: 140bpm
- minimum heart rate: 77bpm
Once the workout completed, we all grabbed some lunch at a restaurant around the corner from Chelsea Studios.
Between the time I left the workout to the time I got home and took off my heart rate monitor (at 9:48pm), I burned another 850 calories!
Total calories burned today - 2941calories.
Morning workout is done.
Now it's time to start my P90X workout. Day 8, Chest & Back and Ab Ripper X.
Onward.....
I put on the bodybugg (which measures your calories burned, number of steps taken, and length of physical activity) and the heart rate monitor (which measures your maximum heart rate, minimum heart rate, and average heart rate), ate breakfast, and caught a bus to New York City for a Turbo Kick workout with Kelly Nelson.
Kelly Nelson is a certified turbo kick instructor, and she is also a TeamBeachbody Coach.
Let me tell you that this workout was INTENSE. Here are some stats to prove that:
- calories burned: 2091
- maximum heart rate: 193bpm
- average hart rate: 140bpm
- minimum heart rate: 77bpm
Once the workout completed, we all grabbed some lunch at a restaurant around the corner from Chelsea Studios.
Between the time I left the workout to the time I got home and took off my heart rate monitor (at 9:48pm), I burned another 850 calories!
Total calories burned today - 2941calories.
Morning workout is done.
Now it's time to start my P90X workout. Day 8, Chest & Back and Ab Ripper X.
Onward.....
P90X, round 4, week one
Last week, I began my fourth round of P90X and I chose to do P90X Classic. This was the program schedule that I started with a year ago, so why not begin here!
Last year, when I began P90X, I lifeted 10pounds and I gradually increased the weight throughout the program. This time, I am starting with 25pounds.
In addition, I took the P90X Fitness Test on Saturday, prior to my start date. This is not a pass or fail test, it's designed to measure your starting point and see how you improve over the next 90 days of the program answering this question - what changed?
Throughout week one, I was pushed, pulled, and stretched throuhout the week - and I loved it! I was familiar with the workouts, it was tough, but I was confident that I would do well. I modified the exercise whenever I needed to, otherwise I worked hard and did my best. The cardio workout stretched me out from the weight workouts. The combination of the two made for a great week! Add onto that the 349 crunches from Ab Ripper X three times a week, and I was exhausted by Saturday morning (but I felt fantastic!!!)
Due to extenuating circumstances this past week of working late at work and not getting enough sleep, I did not do day 5, Legs & Back and Ab Ripper X. I am not bent out of shape about it, I am pressing forward in my workouts. That is essential.
Throughout the week, I made healthy choices for my meals. I avoided anything fried and any type of "deli meat". I snacked on raw almonds twice a day, and I hydrated daily by drinking 60oz of water. I surprised my father who asked if I wanted pizza for lunch, and I declined. He said, "Do you believe this? James doesn't want pizza. I thoughout you liked pizza?"
I do! But, I choose not to have pizza, fried, or greasy foods because those are the types of foods that cause you to break out, raise your cholesterol, raise your body fat percentage, and are not the healthiest in the world either.
In a nutshell, week one has been completed. Twelve more weeks (or 84 days) to go. I am truly looking forward to this fitness journey!
Onward, and forward...
Last year, when I began P90X, I lifeted 10pounds and I gradually increased the weight throughout the program. This time, I am starting with 25pounds.
In addition, I took the P90X Fitness Test on Saturday, prior to my start date. This is not a pass or fail test, it's designed to measure your starting point and see how you improve over the next 90 days of the program answering this question - what changed?
Throughout week one, I was pushed, pulled, and stretched throuhout the week - and I loved it! I was familiar with the workouts, it was tough, but I was confident that I would do well. I modified the exercise whenever I needed to, otherwise I worked hard and did my best. The cardio workout stretched me out from the weight workouts. The combination of the two made for a great week! Add onto that the 349 crunches from Ab Ripper X three times a week, and I was exhausted by Saturday morning (but I felt fantastic!!!)
Due to extenuating circumstances this past week of working late at work and not getting enough sleep, I did not do day 5, Legs & Back and Ab Ripper X. I am not bent out of shape about it, I am pressing forward in my workouts. That is essential.
Throughout the week, I made healthy choices for my meals. I avoided anything fried and any type of "deli meat". I snacked on raw almonds twice a day, and I hydrated daily by drinking 60oz of water. I surprised my father who asked if I wanted pizza for lunch, and I declined. He said, "Do you believe this? James doesn't want pizza. I thoughout you liked pizza?"
I do! But, I choose not to have pizza, fried, or greasy foods because those are the types of foods that cause you to break out, raise your cholesterol, raise your body fat percentage, and are not the healthiest in the world either.
In a nutshell, week one has been completed. Twelve more weeks (or 84 days) to go. I am truly looking forward to this fitness journey!
Onward, and forward...
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Motivational Monitor
One of the things I have made a point to do as a Beachbody coach was to motivate myself, is workout, eat properly, hydrate, take vitamins, get enough sleep, and take care of myself - in the hopes that by doing so, I will be able to inspire by example. I've heard that many times in life. So instead of "thinking" it, why not BE an example.
Here's something that came across my desk today in the mail. It's a 2010 monthly planning guide with a "motivational monitor". Every month has a motivational comment or message. Now, if you've seen the motivational posters that were displayed all over in corporate offices, businesses, sometimes in a person's home, you'll know the ones that I mean.
They are (and yes, there are 12):
DETERMINATION
It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare; it is because we do not dare tha they are difficult.
COURAGE
Courage and perseverance have a magical talisman, before which difficulties appear and obstacles vanish into air.
EXPERIENCE
Experience is not what happens to you; it is what you do with what happens to you.
GROWTH
The perfecting of one's self is the fundamental base of all progress and all moral development.
BEAUTY
Let each day be your masterpiece.
ACHIEVEMENT
Happiness lies in the joy of achievement and thru the thrill of creative effort.
PERSPECTIVE
Distance has the same effect on the mind as on the eye.
VISION
If you only look at what is, you might never attain what could be.
REFLECTION
Your treasure house is within; it contains all you'll ever need.
MEDITATION
In deep meditation the flow of concentration is continuous like the flow of oil.
LEADERS
Outstanding leaders appeal to the hearts of their followers - not their minds.
GOALS
You will never reach the top without the determination inspired by your goals.
I love the last one because it's so true. Each one of these is reflectant upon the other. You need a vision to establish goals, once you establish goals you can reflect upon them,
Once we have a vision in our mind of what we want to achieve, we can set goals. Through determination and courage, we will grow as an individual. The beauty of this achievement and development is the perspective we gain on our life and on the lives of others. As we reflect on our experience, we inspire others through our achievements. We are leaders, and we inspire these goals in others, hoping they will do the same. We meditate and concentrate to focus and pursue our next task, our next challenge, and continuously pursue the next level.
Have a fantastic day!
Here's something that came across my desk today in the mail. It's a 2010 monthly planning guide with a "motivational monitor". Every month has a motivational comment or message. Now, if you've seen the motivational posters that were displayed all over in corporate offices, businesses, sometimes in a person's home, you'll know the ones that I mean.
They are (and yes, there are 12):
DETERMINATION
It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare; it is because we do not dare tha they are difficult.
COURAGE
Courage and perseverance have a magical talisman, before which difficulties appear and obstacles vanish into air.
EXPERIENCE
Experience is not what happens to you; it is what you do with what happens to you.
GROWTH
The perfecting of one's self is the fundamental base of all progress and all moral development.
BEAUTY
Let each day be your masterpiece.
ACHIEVEMENT
Happiness lies in the joy of achievement and thru the thrill of creative effort.
PERSPECTIVE
Distance has the same effect on the mind as on the eye.
VISION
If you only look at what is, you might never attain what could be.
REFLECTION
Your treasure house is within; it contains all you'll ever need.
MEDITATION
In deep meditation the flow of concentration is continuous like the flow of oil.
LEADERS
Outstanding leaders appeal to the hearts of their followers - not their minds.
GOALS
You will never reach the top without the determination inspired by your goals.
I love the last one because it's so true. Each one of these is reflectant upon the other. You need a vision to establish goals, once you establish goals you can reflect upon them,
Once we have a vision in our mind of what we want to achieve, we can set goals. Through determination and courage, we will grow as an individual. The beauty of this achievement and development is the perspective we gain on our life and on the lives of others. As we reflect on our experience, we inspire others through our achievements. We are leaders, and we inspire these goals in others, hoping they will do the same. We meditate and concentrate to focus and pursue our next task, our next challenge, and continuously pursue the next level.
Have a fantastic day!
Monday, August 10, 2009
LIVE Insanity Workout
I wanted to get this info up here pretty quickly.
I'm one of the co-hosts to this event, Insanity LIVE in NYC, on August 22 at 2pm
I'm one of the co-hosts to this event, Insanity LIVE in NYC, on August 22 at 2pm
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Insanity Workout in NYC
I intended on attending this workout, so I woke up early, ate breakfast, and took the bus to the city to workout. I went to Chelsea Studios in New York City for an Insanity workout hosted by Beachbody Coach Jimmy Hays Nelson.
INSANITY is the newest and latest workout video from Beachbody. Insanity was created by Beachbody trainer/dancer/choreographer ShaunT. Insanity is an extreme workout program.
Jimmy is IN the workout videos for Insanity.
This is the preview of Insanity:
When I saw the preview for Insanity at the Beachbody Coach Summit back in March, it looked extreme and intense. I knew that I was not ready for it and would build up to it over time. As a Beachbody Coach, I received a preview copy of an Insanity Workout (Plyometric Core Cardio) - and I couldn't make it past the first five minutes!!
Today is the day to see how I actually do. Who know? This one workout from Insanity may kick P90X up to a whole new level. Whatever happens, I am here to workout for the long haul, whatever it takes.
At the Insanity workout, I met Jimmy and Jet from the 2620 crew. They're great guys.
The Insanity workouts, yes there were two of them, were:
- Core Intervals
- Cardio Abs
Holy @#$&$%!!! I started sweating in the first five minutes of Insanity (the warmup). Sweat is good. Shows the body is getting a hard workout. Insanity is intense. VERY intense! It will test your strength, endurance, determination, and core strength in EVERY move! I'm not kidding about that because I experienced that.
Jimmy provided a lot of motivation for everyone in the room, especially since it may have been their first experience with an Insanity workout. He provided modifications for moves, checked everyone to make sure they were working hard or keeping their core tight.
Some people modified, some didn't. I modified when necessary. There were several points where I was ready to give up and quit the workout, but heard a voice in my head saying, "You give up, you destroy everything you worked hard for until this day." Yes, I know, a little harsh, but it was a wake up call.
It worked.
I pushed, I worked harder, and it truly paid off. By the end of core Intervals, my body was hurting, I was sweating - and I felt GREAT!
There were moves in Cardio Abs I was familiar with because the were either in P90X or Hip Hop Abs (yes, Hip Hop Abs). Although we didn't have mats for the ab workout, I grabbed an extra shirt from my bag and used that as a mat. It helped because I completed the ab workout.
Core Intervals - 38 minutes
Cadio Abs - 10 minutes
WORTH EVERY DROP OF SWEAT! I can see why you would need to constantly hydrate throughout the day, especially after a workout like this. I've read comments from other Beachbody coaches using Insanity who have burned up to 1000 calories in an hour!
After this workout, I am taking my P90X journey to the next level by kicking it up a notch. Speaking of P90X, today is my first day of P90X. Although I did the Insanity workout first thing this morning, I completed my P90X workouts tonight - Chest & Back and Ab Ripper X.
If you want to purchase P90X, Insanity, or any other Beachbody product, and you want to obtain the same results, please contact me. I will be happy to help you achieve all of your fitness goals.
Onward to P90X day two...
INSANITY is the newest and latest workout video from Beachbody. Insanity was created by Beachbody trainer/dancer/choreographer ShaunT. Insanity is an extreme workout program.
Jimmy is IN the workout videos for Insanity.
This is the preview of Insanity:
When I saw the preview for Insanity at the Beachbody Coach Summit back in March, it looked extreme and intense. I knew that I was not ready for it and would build up to it over time. As a Beachbody Coach, I received a preview copy of an Insanity Workout (Plyometric Core Cardio) - and I couldn't make it past the first five minutes!!
Today is the day to see how I actually do. Who know? This one workout from Insanity may kick P90X up to a whole new level. Whatever happens, I am here to workout for the long haul, whatever it takes.
At the Insanity workout, I met Jimmy and Jet from the 2620 crew. They're great guys.
The Insanity workouts, yes there were two of them, were:
- Core Intervals
- Cardio Abs
Holy @#$&$%!!! I started sweating in the first five minutes of Insanity (the warmup). Sweat is good. Shows the body is getting a hard workout. Insanity is intense. VERY intense! It will test your strength, endurance, determination, and core strength in EVERY move! I'm not kidding about that because I experienced that.
Jimmy provided a lot of motivation for everyone in the room, especially since it may have been their first experience with an Insanity workout. He provided modifications for moves, checked everyone to make sure they were working hard or keeping their core tight.
Some people modified, some didn't. I modified when necessary. There were several points where I was ready to give up and quit the workout, but heard a voice in my head saying, "You give up, you destroy everything you worked hard for until this day." Yes, I know, a little harsh, but it was a wake up call.
It worked.
I pushed, I worked harder, and it truly paid off. By the end of core Intervals, my body was hurting, I was sweating - and I felt GREAT!
There were moves in Cardio Abs I was familiar with because the were either in P90X or Hip Hop Abs (yes, Hip Hop Abs). Although we didn't have mats for the ab workout, I grabbed an extra shirt from my bag and used that as a mat. It helped because I completed the ab workout.
Core Intervals - 38 minutes
Cadio Abs - 10 minutes
WORTH EVERY DROP OF SWEAT! I can see why you would need to constantly hydrate throughout the day, especially after a workout like this. I've read comments from other Beachbody coaches using Insanity who have burned up to 1000 calories in an hour!
After this workout, I am taking my P90X journey to the next level by kicking it up a notch. Speaking of P90X, today is my first day of P90X. Although I did the Insanity workout first thing this morning, I completed my P90X workouts tonight - Chest & Back and Ab Ripper X.
If you want to purchase P90X, Insanity, or any other Beachbody product, and you want to obtain the same results, please contact me. I will be happy to help you achieve all of your fitness goals.
Onward to P90X day two...
P90X Fitness Test 08/08/09
P90X Fit Test - 08/08/09
After three rounds of P90X, I never took the P90X Fit Test. The Fit Test is designed to see if you're able to handle the minimum requirements for P90X. Pullups, pushups, a vertical leap, toe touch, wall squat, bicep curls, in & outs, and a heart rate maximixer.
Wide Pullups To Failure - 5
Vertical Leap - 5"
You do this two times. The first time, you stand against a wall, and jump as high as you can. The second time, you take a step back and jump up. The results are the difference between the first time and the second time.
Pushups - 35
(with pushup stands)
Toe touch - -5 1/2"
I've always had a difficult time touching my toes because my hamstrings are tight. I'm hoping that over the next 90 days this improves.
Wall Squat - 52 seconds
Your back is against the wall and you squat down so that your quadraceps and calves are in a 90 degree angle. The objective is to stay in this position as long as you can. In P90X, they hold this position for 90 seconds.
Bicep Curls - 14reps
I did this two ways. 7 reps at 25 pounds, then I increased the weight to 27.5 pounds and did 7 more reps.
In & Outs - 33
Sitting on the floor with your knees bent, you extend your legs out and bring them back. That's an in & out. I struggled with this the first time I did P90X. In P90X, they do this exercise with 25 reptitions.
Heart Rate Maximizer
Two minutes of non-stop jumping jacks, and you sprint the last 30 seconds.
HR after done: 169
After 1 minute: 111
After 2 minutes: 92
After 3 minutes: 85
After 4 minutes: 81
Since I was wearing a heart rate monitor during the test, these are the statistics from the heart rate monitor:
Max HR: 179
Avg HR: 90
Min HR: 65
In addition to the P90X Fit Test, I also took my day 0 measurements for P90X:
(measurements are in inches, closest measurement 1/8")
Chest: 36.0
L. Bicep: 11.375
R. Bicep: 11.25
Waist: 36.5
Hips: 36
L. Thigh: 20.75
R. Thigh: 20
TOTAL: 171.875"
Weight: 156pounds
I consider this information "a beginning" or something to improve. As Beachbody CEO described the day 0 photo, he said, "Consider this your goodbye photo" meaning that this is the last time that you will look this way. I hope so. I've attached the photo.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Eating Correctly
One of the biggest setbacks people can experience as they go through a workout program is not eating enough or not eating "clean" and nutritionally.
This happened to me when I was in my first round of P90X. I could not figure out why, no matter how hard I worked out throughout the program hwy I wasn't losing weight or gaining muscle. it turns out that the energy that I burned from the workouts was completely replenished by my dietary habits and what I was eating. I was being counter-productive and I never understood it.
In order to see where I made mistakes with my nutrition, I started logging everything I ate and drank for a week as well as "how much" of each. In addition, I also logged what exercises I did that week and how many calories I burned during the workouts. After researching the caloric breakdown of the foods I have been eating and doing the math (total caloric intake - expenditure = daily total), I saw why I was not gaining muscle and losing body fat.
I WASN'T EATING ENOUGH OF THE RIGHT STUFF!!!
I had to make a change to my diet. I became extremely conscious and aware of what I did, constantly asking myself questions like, "is this food in the top to tiers of Michi's ladder" as well as "will eating this particular food get me closer to my goal or push me farther from my goal?"
This change did not happen over night, nor did I expect it to. This was something I chose to do for me, my health, and my future - a healthier and fit life. In order to reach that point that I wanted to achieve, I needed a place to begin.
That place is today, August 2, 2009. I know what I want to achieve and I will do whatever it takes to get there. Now it is a matter of time, execution, diligence, and patience.
How this change in diet and nutrition will affect my life, I am very confident about - and I will stick with it. I've "envisioned" how I want to look and feel at day 90 and beyond. Now it's time to make those visions a reality.
Two years ago when I began this fitness journey when my day one photo was taken, I said to myself "This photo will change". During the past two years, my health has improved. Now I have more work to do.
I will keep this blog updated with new information and statistics weekly.
Have a great week everyone!
Onward, and forward...
This happened to me when I was in my first round of P90X. I could not figure out why, no matter how hard I worked out throughout the program hwy I wasn't losing weight or gaining muscle. it turns out that the energy that I burned from the workouts was completely replenished by my dietary habits and what I was eating. I was being counter-productive and I never understood it.
In order to see where I made mistakes with my nutrition, I started logging everything I ate and drank for a week as well as "how much" of each. In addition, I also logged what exercises I did that week and how many calories I burned during the workouts. After researching the caloric breakdown of the foods I have been eating and doing the math (total caloric intake - expenditure = daily total), I saw why I was not gaining muscle and losing body fat.
I WASN'T EATING ENOUGH OF THE RIGHT STUFF!!!
I had to make a change to my diet. I became extremely conscious and aware of what I did, constantly asking myself questions like, "is this food in the top to tiers of Michi's ladder" as well as "will eating this particular food get me closer to my goal or push me farther from my goal?"
This change did not happen over night, nor did I expect it to. This was something I chose to do for me, my health, and my future - a healthier and fit life. In order to reach that point that I wanted to achieve, I needed a place to begin.
That place is today, August 2, 2009. I know what I want to achieve and I will do whatever it takes to get there. Now it is a matter of time, execution, diligence, and patience.
How this change in diet and nutrition will affect my life, I am very confident about - and I will stick with it. I've "envisioned" how I want to look and feel at day 90 and beyond. Now it's time to make those visions a reality.
Two years ago when I began this fitness journey when my day one photo was taken, I said to myself "This photo will change". During the past two years, my health has improved. Now I have more work to do.
I will keep this blog updated with new information and statistics weekly.
Have a great week everyone!
Onward, and forward...
Monday, July 27, 2009
Power 90 Master Series (last phase of Power90)
As I had initially mentioned a few blogs back, I would be kicking up Power 90 by adding workouts from the Power 90 Master Series. This past week, I began the 5-6 series, or Power 90 Master Series workouts. These are the last workouts that I will be doing before I begin P90X Classic on August 9, 2009.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve had my setbacks, but I wasn’t going to let that get to me. After the tweak in my lower back by lifting 30 pounds, I dropped the weight significantly to 12.5pounds. I received a Twitter message from a fellow coach who said, “Dude, what are you doing?!?!? Lifting heavier is better!” I hear where he was coming from. I called him a few days later, and I explained my reasoning for lowering the weight – to protect my lower back.
When I dropped the weight, I increased the reps. Although I was lifting 12.5pounds, I was doing 20 reps per exercise – so I was still getting a burn. Throughout the week, I gradually increased the weights by 2.5 each weight workout, but I kept the same reps. At the end of this week, I was lifting 17.5pounds and doing 20 reps. It was an ultimate burn, and I liked it and hated it at the same time. But you know what, I knew that if I stuck with it, that it would eventually pay off in the end.
Saturday morning, I woke up and worked out to “Recovery 4 Results” from Beachbody’s One On One series. Now for anyone who isn’t familiar with personal trainer Tony Horton, he has over 25 years as a personal trainer. He has created multiple workout programs through Beachbody ranging from super-stacking programs like Ten Minute Trainer to extreme exercise programs such as P90X and P90X+.
“Recovery 4 Results” had stretching, light weight workouts, a little yoga, and it allows you to help recover from a strenuous workout the day before. Once the workout completed, I felt great, my muscles no longer hurt, and I was ready to start the next week.
I’m jumping back to Power 90’s 3-4 series JUST for this week. I want to get in a few more workouts from the 3-4 series. The week after that will be my final week in Power 90/Master Series. Then, on August 9, I begin P90X.
Have a great day everyone! ONWARD!
Over the past few weeks, I’ve had my setbacks, but I wasn’t going to let that get to me. After the tweak in my lower back by lifting 30 pounds, I dropped the weight significantly to 12.5pounds. I received a Twitter message from a fellow coach who said, “Dude, what are you doing?!?!? Lifting heavier is better!” I hear where he was coming from. I called him a few days later, and I explained my reasoning for lowering the weight – to protect my lower back.
When I dropped the weight, I increased the reps. Although I was lifting 12.5pounds, I was doing 20 reps per exercise – so I was still getting a burn. Throughout the week, I gradually increased the weights by 2.5 each weight workout, but I kept the same reps. At the end of this week, I was lifting 17.5pounds and doing 20 reps. It was an ultimate burn, and I liked it and hated it at the same time. But you know what, I knew that if I stuck with it, that it would eventually pay off in the end.
Saturday morning, I woke up and worked out to “Recovery 4 Results” from Beachbody’s One On One series. Now for anyone who isn’t familiar with personal trainer Tony Horton, he has over 25 years as a personal trainer. He has created multiple workout programs through Beachbody ranging from super-stacking programs like Ten Minute Trainer to extreme exercise programs such as P90X and P90X+.
“Recovery 4 Results” had stretching, light weight workouts, a little yoga, and it allows you to help recover from a strenuous workout the day before. Once the workout completed, I felt great, my muscles no longer hurt, and I was ready to start the next week.
I’m jumping back to Power 90’s 3-4 series JUST for this week. I want to get in a few more workouts from the 3-4 series. The week after that will be my final week in Power 90/Master Series. Then, on August 9, I begin P90X.
Have a great day everyone! ONWARD!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Weight (the kind you lift)
No, this blog post is not about gaining weight or losing weight, it's about LIFTING weight. Yeah, I'm talking about the weight that you use when you're doing arm curls, arm extensions, even dips. Yes, weight related exercises.
For the past 45+ days, I have been doing an accellerated version of Beachbody's exercise program, Power 90. I've been sick, I've pulled a muscle, but I am still here and I am still working out, until my latest setback.
My arms gave out.
When I first did Power 90 a year and a half ago, I started with 3 pound weights (please, no laughing) and increased it over time. I started that low because I had absolutely no strength in my arms. Once I completed that, I started the next level - the Power 90 Master Series. I had hoped that this program would prepare me for P90X. During the Power 90 Master Series (or P90MS), I began with 10pounds. I ended my second round of P90MS by lifting 25pounds. This was a huge accomplishment for me and I was very proud of it.
When I began P90X, I went back to the beginning of lifting 10pounds, and I'm glad that I did. The workouts were intense, and they tested me - literally. By the end of my third round of P90X, I was lifting 25pounds with my arms. So I was back to where I was at the end of P90MS.
During that time, I drastically improved my health statistics. Now, I wanted the physical results to match my health results.
So I went back to Power 90, but I did an accellerated version it. I was doing well by the end of the second phase (the 3-4 phase), and then I ran into problems with the weights. I increased the weight from 25 to 30pounds - and that's where the trouble started. I started feeling pain in my lower back. In the following weight workout, I wore a weight belt to protect my lower back and I did less reps. It felt as though the belt was preventing me from lifting my best, yet it was protecting my lower back from injury. It was a catch 22.
I admit, I did not complete the 3-4 series to the best of my ability. But, I am not digressing. I am pressing forward.
Tomorrow morning, I begin the Power 90 Master Series, or 5-6 series. Instead of increasing the weights, I am increasing the reps. During the 3-4 series, I lifted 25pounds with up to 15reps per exercise. As I begin the 5-6series, I'm dropping the weight again - purposely - to work on the endurance. I'm starting with 20 pounds. Even if I'm doing 15-20 reps, it's working the muscles just as hard as if I am lifting a heavier weight. Although some people may disagree, this will end up helping me in the end. If I can do more reps with a lower weight, this will make it easier over time as I increase the weight - primarily because I will be protecting my back, I won't be losing my form, and I will be much more confident of what I am doing.
In addition to doing the primary workouts from P90MS - Sweat 5-6 and Sculpt 5-6 - I will also be doing the other workouts as well: Core Cardio, Cardio Intervals, Plyo Legs, and Upper Middle Lower. In addition, I will also be doing a workout from the One On One series titled "Cardio Intervals". It will
Some may say that I'm taking a step back. I believe that sometimes one needs to take a step backward before progressing forward. If lowering the weights and increasing the reps helps develop the endurance of my muscles as well as strengthening them over time, then I am doing exactly what I am expecting.
The results will show up in time. I have time.
I do not have a video for phase two, yet. That is in process. I hope to have one up soon. When it is complete, I will post it here.
Onward, and forward...
For the past 45+ days, I have been doing an accellerated version of Beachbody's exercise program, Power 90. I've been sick, I've pulled a muscle, but I am still here and I am still working out, until my latest setback.
My arms gave out.
When I first did Power 90 a year and a half ago, I started with 3 pound weights (please, no laughing) and increased it over time. I started that low because I had absolutely no strength in my arms. Once I completed that, I started the next level - the Power 90 Master Series. I had hoped that this program would prepare me for P90X. During the Power 90 Master Series (or P90MS), I began with 10pounds. I ended my second round of P90MS by lifting 25pounds. This was a huge accomplishment for me and I was very proud of it.
When I began P90X, I went back to the beginning of lifting 10pounds, and I'm glad that I did. The workouts were intense, and they tested me - literally. By the end of my third round of P90X, I was lifting 25pounds with my arms. So I was back to where I was at the end of P90MS.
During that time, I drastically improved my health statistics. Now, I wanted the physical results to match my health results.
So I went back to Power 90, but I did an accellerated version it. I was doing well by the end of the second phase (the 3-4 phase), and then I ran into problems with the weights. I increased the weight from 25 to 30pounds - and that's where the trouble started. I started feeling pain in my lower back. In the following weight workout, I wore a weight belt to protect my lower back and I did less reps. It felt as though the belt was preventing me from lifting my best, yet it was protecting my lower back from injury. It was a catch 22.
I admit, I did not complete the 3-4 series to the best of my ability. But, I am not digressing. I am pressing forward.
Tomorrow morning, I begin the Power 90 Master Series, or 5-6 series. Instead of increasing the weights, I am increasing the reps. During the 3-4 series, I lifted 25pounds with up to 15reps per exercise. As I begin the 5-6series, I'm dropping the weight again - purposely - to work on the endurance. I'm starting with 20 pounds. Even if I'm doing 15-20 reps, it's working the muscles just as hard as if I am lifting a heavier weight. Although some people may disagree, this will end up helping me in the end. If I can do more reps with a lower weight, this will make it easier over time as I increase the weight - primarily because I will be protecting my back, I won't be losing my form, and I will be much more confident of what I am doing.
In addition to doing the primary workouts from P90MS - Sweat 5-6 and Sculpt 5-6 - I will also be doing the other workouts as well: Core Cardio, Cardio Intervals, Plyo Legs, and Upper Middle Lower. In addition, I will also be doing a workout from the One On One series titled "Cardio Intervals". It will
Some may say that I'm taking a step back. I believe that sometimes one needs to take a step backward before progressing forward. If lowering the weights and increasing the reps helps develop the endurance of my muscles as well as strengthening them over time, then I am doing exactly what I am expecting.
The results will show up in time. I have time.
I do not have a video for phase two, yet. That is in process. I hope to have one up soon. When it is complete, I will post it here.
Onward, and forward...
Monday, July 13, 2009
P90X In New York City
On Saturday, my girlfriend and I drove to NYC (yes, we drove into NYC to try something different, we usually take the train) for a P90X workout at Chelsea Studios. The workout was P90X’s Core Synergistics. After doing the P90X program three times, I know how CS can push you. I didn’t workout this time, by choice. Instead, I filmed it with two different video cameras. Beachbody coach Nazly Jordan took photos at different times throughout the workout. So, between the photos and video, we should be able to put something together.
Sunday, we planned on heading to New York City’s Central Park to meet up with Jimmy Hays Nelson and several other coaches. Jimmy does a P90X workout in Central Park on Sunday mornings at 10am. I intended on filming that workout and making one video to post on youtube. Unfortunately, our timing was off. We left a little late and the train we took in NYC dropped us off at the opposite side of the park. Even though we didn’t get to workout with Jimmy and his group, we had a great walk through Central Park followed by a great walk on the streets of NYC as well.
There will always be a “next time”. So until then, have a great week!!!
Sunday, we planned on heading to New York City’s Central Park to meet up with Jimmy Hays Nelson and several other coaches. Jimmy does a P90X workout in Central Park on Sunday mornings at 10am. I intended on filming that workout and making one video to post on youtube. Unfortunately, our timing was off. We left a little late and the train we took in NYC dropped us off at the opposite side of the park. Even though we didn’t get to workout with Jimmy and his group, we had a great walk through Central Park followed by a great walk on the streets of NYC as well.
There will always be a “next time”. So until then, have a great week!!!
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Shoes
I have always heard the phrases, “the suit makes the man” or “the right outfit improves your appearance.” In the movie The Shawshank Redemption, Morgan Freeman’s character asked this question, “How often do you look at another man’s shoes?”
I have lived with scoliosis all of my life and I’ve known that my posture was hunched. When I was diagnosed with it there were two options – a back operation and recovery time, or a back brace. I did not want a back operation or the rehab time associated with it (six months in a body cast, and then six months in therapy learning how to stand, walk and sit again) because I always thought there was another way. I also didn’t want a 6” metal rod inserted into my back to straighten the spine either. When I started exercising two years ago, I found that other way.
Exercising improved my “calmness”. It developed my muscles, strengthened my bones, which also helped straighten my posture and improve my appearance. Exercising helped me in more ways than I had ever expected. For that, I am truly grateful.
The other night, I was standing up, and I looked in a mirror noticing my posture – hunched. I knew that there was something I had to do about it.
A few weeks ago, I slipped and fell on the floor of my parents’ kitchen because I wore out the threads on the bottom of my sneakers and I did not have support.
I went to Modell’s sporting goods with the intent on buying new sneakers for casual wear. While there, I learned that the width of my feet had changed, and I had been “squeezing” into my sneakers. I tried on wider sneakers, and something happened. I stood taller, stood straighter, and my back did not hunch! I was excited, and I tried on a pair of cross training sneakers to use while working out. I put them on, took one step, and BOOM, I stood taller, straighter, and I felt better.
When I got home, I worked out with such intensity with the new sneakers that I was blown away! I worked out harder, much more intensely, and I sweated more. I loved it! I absolutely LOVED it!!! When I finished, I was covered in sweat and felt fantastic. I was so motivated, so enthused, and I couldn’t wait to get home from work every day or wake up first thing in the morning JUST to workout!!!
One positive result from standing straighter is that I see more of a change and definition in my physical appearance. In just a few days, after working out this way, I’ve been pulling the belt on my jeans one extra notch because other wise it is too loose!
I can’t wait to have my next set of photos taken to see what the results actually “show!
I have lived with scoliosis all of my life and I’ve known that my posture was hunched. When I was diagnosed with it there were two options – a back operation and recovery time, or a back brace. I did not want a back operation or the rehab time associated with it (six months in a body cast, and then six months in therapy learning how to stand, walk and sit again) because I always thought there was another way. I also didn’t want a 6” metal rod inserted into my back to straighten the spine either. When I started exercising two years ago, I found that other way.
Exercising improved my “calmness”. It developed my muscles, strengthened my bones, which also helped straighten my posture and improve my appearance. Exercising helped me in more ways than I had ever expected. For that, I am truly grateful.
The other night, I was standing up, and I looked in a mirror noticing my posture – hunched. I knew that there was something I had to do about it.
A few weeks ago, I slipped and fell on the floor of my parents’ kitchen because I wore out the threads on the bottom of my sneakers and I did not have support.
I went to Modell’s sporting goods with the intent on buying new sneakers for casual wear. While there, I learned that the width of my feet had changed, and I had been “squeezing” into my sneakers. I tried on wider sneakers, and something happened. I stood taller, stood straighter, and my back did not hunch! I was excited, and I tried on a pair of cross training sneakers to use while working out. I put them on, took one step, and BOOM, I stood taller, straighter, and I felt better.
When I got home, I worked out with such intensity with the new sneakers that I was blown away! I worked out harder, much more intensely, and I sweated more. I loved it! I absolutely LOVED it!!! When I finished, I was covered in sweat and felt fantastic. I was so motivated, so enthused, and I couldn’t wait to get home from work every day or wake up first thing in the morning JUST to workout!!!
One positive result from standing straighter is that I see more of a change and definition in my physical appearance. In just a few days, after working out this way, I’ve been pulling the belt on my jeans one extra notch because other wise it is too loose!
I can’t wait to have my next set of photos taken to see what the results actually “show!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
VIDEO Power 90 Phase 1
I filmed about 12 different workouts from Power 90 1-2 Series (Sweat 1-2, Sculpt 1-2, Ab Ripper 100) during phase 1, days 1-30. This took a few days to assemble because I added text to it as well as music.
I also added a "preview" or clip for the workouts for month two - Power 90 3-4 Series (Sweat 3-4, Sculpt 3-4, Ab Ripper 200).
Here it is. Check it out and let me know what you think.
See you next week!
I also added a "preview" or clip for the workouts for month two - Power 90 3-4 Series (Sweat 3-4, Sculpt 3-4, Ab Ripper 200).
Here it is. Check it out and let me know what you think.
See you next week!
Monday, June 22, 2009
P90X in NYC
Fellow Beachbody coaches Gabrielle Valentino and Nazly Jordan hosted a P90X workout and Beachbody opportunity on Saturday, June 20th at Chelsea Studios in New York City.
There were Beachbody coaches from New York, New Jersey, and even as far away as from Virginia – all who came to NYC for this workout. Now THAT was cool!!!
We worked out to P90X’s “Plyometrics”. Everyone worked hard throughout the workout. Nazly Jordon brought her digital camera and took several photos of the event. She’s posted them on Facebook. Once the workout ended, Nazly discussed the Beachbody Opportunity.
I give my girlfriend, Gloria, who also attended the event, a LOT of credit for sticking it out throughout the workout. Gloria has not tried P90X. She has done workouts from Beachbody’s Hip Hop Abs and Turbo Jam programs. After the workout, Gloria did tell me that she would eventually like to do P90X.
Good for you, Gloria! Bring it – in every workout that you do! :-)
After leaving Chelsea Studios, we found a health food store and we had lunch there. Nazly said she will do another workout like this in NYC next month on July 11th. Keep me posted, Nazly, I will definitely be there!!! Once we completed lunch, we said our goodbyes and headed home. The workout was intense, the people there were great, and it was a lot of fun!
Sunday morning, I felt it in my quads, legs, and butt – I haven’t felt THAT type of burn since the first time I did Plyometrics in May 2008! I loved that!!!!
For anyone interested, the next workout will be on July 11th, with a location to be determined. I will post updated info when I have it.
Have a great day everyone! Thank you for reading this! Have a great week!
In the meantime, here's a photo from the event.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Power 90 - Phase 1 Completed
As of Saturday June 13, I completed phase one of Power 90 (days 1-30). Now I know a lot of people would say "but Power 90 is a 90 day program, 45 days in 1-2 and 45 days in 3-4. why 30 days?" Because I'm incoporating the Power 90 Master Series (5-6). 30 days per series.
The 1-2 series has a 50% completion - which includes the two weeks that I was sick, and the days that I worked out after recovering.
I refuse to get bent out of shape out of "missed workouts". I'll just progress forwards and keep on working hard, eating right, and taking care of myself.
Instead, I am pressing forwards onto phase two.
As a "visual" comparision, here are my measurements from day 0 to day 28 of Power 90.
Date: 04/26/09 / 06/13/09
Neck: 15.5" /
Shoulders: 43.0" /
L. Bicep: 12.0" /
R. Bicep: 11.5" /
L. Forearm: 10.75" /
R. Forearm: 10.5" /
Chest: 35.875" /
Waist: 35.875" /
Hips: 35.75" /
L. Thigh: 20.125" /
R. Thigh: 19.875" /
L. Calf: 13.50" /
R. Calf: 13.0" /
TOTAL: 277.25" /
Weight: 155.80 pounds /
Normally, this would have been 28-30 days. But take into consideration the two weeks that I was sick, and the numbers (or dates) match out correctly.
I am putting together the video footage for the 1-2 phase and will post it by the end of the week.
But for now, onward to phase 2...
The 1-2 series has a 50% completion - which includes the two weeks that I was sick, and the days that I worked out after recovering.
I refuse to get bent out of shape out of "missed workouts". I'll just progress forwards and keep on working hard, eating right, and taking care of myself.
Instead, I am pressing forwards onto phase two.
As a "visual" comparision, here are my measurements from day 0 to day 28 of Power 90.
Date: 04/26/09 / 06/13/09
Neck: 15.5" /
Shoulders: 43.0" /
L. Bicep: 12.0" /
R. Bicep: 11.5" /
L. Forearm: 10.75" /
R. Forearm: 10.5" /
Chest: 35.875" /
Waist: 35.875" /
Hips: 35.75" /
L. Thigh: 20.125" /
R. Thigh: 19.875" /
L. Calf: 13.50" /
R. Calf: 13.0" /
TOTAL: 277.25" /
Weight: 155.80 pounds /
Normally, this would have been 28-30 days. But take into consideration the two weeks that I was sick, and the numbers (or dates) match out correctly.
I am putting together the video footage for the 1-2 phase and will post it by the end of the week.
But for now, onward to phase 2...
Monday, June 8, 2009
The Experiment
For most of my adult life, I have been cholesterol medications of one form or the other. A few months ago, I wondered to myself, “what would my cholesterol be if I DIDN’T take any cholesterol medicine?”
I ran out of cholesterol medicine last month (which was not planned), but this was the beginning of my test. During the time, I still ate clean, I exercised almost every day, and I took care of myself. When my cholesterol was checked, the total was 264points. The HDL level was higher than the LDL. I knew that this would change. At that doctor’s visit, I obtained a prescription for my cholesterol medicine. I took the cholesterol medicine daily, ate clean meals, and exercised… until I caught a cold. Once I got rid of the cold, I started exercising.
I visited my doctor on Saturday, he took a new cholesterol level since I’m now taking the cholesterol medicine. The results absolutely blew my mind. The total cholesterol was 184points. Yes, you read that correctly - 184!!!The breakdown is LDL 109 and HDL 75.
These results were the answer to my experiment. During the course of ONE month of not taking my cholesterol medicine vs. taking it, the difference was 60points.
Now, I take the cholesterol medicine daily, and I am also working out. On my next visit to the doctor in the next few months, I would like to see what my cholesterol will be now that I’m taking the cholesterol medicine, working out, and eating well.
That’s my post for the day.
ONWARD! :)
I ran out of cholesterol medicine last month (which was not planned), but this was the beginning of my test. During the time, I still ate clean, I exercised almost every day, and I took care of myself. When my cholesterol was checked, the total was 264points. The HDL level was higher than the LDL. I knew that this would change. At that doctor’s visit, I obtained a prescription for my cholesterol medicine. I took the cholesterol medicine daily, ate clean meals, and exercised… until I caught a cold. Once I got rid of the cold, I started exercising.
I visited my doctor on Saturday, he took a new cholesterol level since I’m now taking the cholesterol medicine. The results absolutely blew my mind. The total cholesterol was 184points. Yes, you read that correctly - 184!!!The breakdown is LDL 109 and HDL 75.
These results were the answer to my experiment. During the course of ONE month of not taking my cholesterol medicine vs. taking it, the difference was 60points.
Now, I take the cholesterol medicine daily, and I am also working out. On my next visit to the doctor in the next few months, I would like to see what my cholesterol will be now that I’m taking the cholesterol medicine, working out, and eating well.
That’s my post for the day.
ONWARD! :)
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Getting Back Into It
Once you have been doing something for a while and something happens where you're unable to do that, it is difficult to get back into it. That's not so with exercising and eating right. Statistically, people experience setbacks, or situations which divert them from their original goal. Unexpected situations, a move, change of jobs... there's always "something".
Yes, I've been fighting a cold. But, I took the appropriate time to get enough sleep, drink enough liquids, eat healthy, and take care of myself. As the cold disappared, and I felt better. Once that happened, I thought "now that you feel better, WHY aren't you working out?" Last Saturday that was my goal. I worked out to Beachbody's "Ho' Ala Ke Kino", which helped me get back into the workouts. Sunday, I picked up Power 90 in the 1-2 series. This was both helpful and motivational because despite the cold, I DID NOT GIVE UP, and for me, that was the drive that I needed. My OWN drive. I did it myself.
Throughout the week, I worked out, yet I was still fighting the tail end of the cold. It didn't stop me. I kept pushing play and working out the best of my ability.
Yesterday, I visited my doctor for a quarterly checkup. The anti-seizure medication is monitored quarterly to make sure the numbers look alright. But on my last visit a few months ago, the medication numbers looked good - but, my cholesterol numbers were bad. The cholesterol jumped up to 264. Towards the end of 2008, I lowered my cholesterol to 185. It went back up because I ran out of cholesterol medicine. Ok, that's a 79 point difference. If I lowered it once before, I could do it again.
Since that visit, I renewed the prescription for my cholesterol medicine and have been taking it daily. My doctor took a blood level to monitor what my cholesterol level was.
Although I'm not "at" where I want to be, I feel better, I am eating cleaner better meals, and I am confident that I will achieve my goals - both with fitness, health, and in life. Most importantly - my posture is straighter, I am much more relaxed (must be an endorphyn thing), and I can "see" my goal. In my mind, I can see what I want my results to be, and I am striving PAST that.
Today, WOWY, Beachbody's super online gym where we log our workouts is under construction. Beachbody is revamping the entire website this week. I have viewed the photos of what the new website will look like, and I'm very confident in the new look. Unfortunately, I won't be able to WOWY my workouts every day.
BUT
Just because WOWY is not working IS NOT AN EXCUSE NOT TO WORKOUT!! Sorry, I refuse to use that as an excuse. If I'm hurt, or sick, that's another story. But I feel good, I'm ready to workout.
I'm working out again, filming my workouts, and completing stage one of Power 90.
ONWARD!
Next week, I'll post the change in stats from day 0 to day 30 of Power 90, as well as photos.
Yes, I've been fighting a cold. But, I took the appropriate time to get enough sleep, drink enough liquids, eat healthy, and take care of myself. As the cold disappared, and I felt better. Once that happened, I thought "now that you feel better, WHY aren't you working out?" Last Saturday that was my goal. I worked out to Beachbody's "Ho' Ala Ke Kino", which helped me get back into the workouts. Sunday, I picked up Power 90 in the 1-2 series. This was both helpful and motivational because despite the cold, I DID NOT GIVE UP, and for me, that was the drive that I needed. My OWN drive. I did it myself.
Throughout the week, I worked out, yet I was still fighting the tail end of the cold. It didn't stop me. I kept pushing play and working out the best of my ability.
Yesterday, I visited my doctor for a quarterly checkup. The anti-seizure medication is monitored quarterly to make sure the numbers look alright. But on my last visit a few months ago, the medication numbers looked good - but, my cholesterol numbers were bad. The cholesterol jumped up to 264. Towards the end of 2008, I lowered my cholesterol to 185. It went back up because I ran out of cholesterol medicine. Ok, that's a 79 point difference. If I lowered it once before, I could do it again.
Since that visit, I renewed the prescription for my cholesterol medicine and have been taking it daily. My doctor took a blood level to monitor what my cholesterol level was.
Although I'm not "at" where I want to be, I feel better, I am eating cleaner better meals, and I am confident that I will achieve my goals - both with fitness, health, and in life. Most importantly - my posture is straighter, I am much more relaxed (must be an endorphyn thing), and I can "see" my goal. In my mind, I can see what I want my results to be, and I am striving PAST that.
Today, WOWY, Beachbody's super online gym where we log our workouts is under construction. Beachbody is revamping the entire website this week. I have viewed the photos of what the new website will look like, and I'm very confident in the new look. Unfortunately, I won't be able to WOWY my workouts every day.
BUT
Just because WOWY is not working IS NOT AN EXCUSE NOT TO WORKOUT!! Sorry, I refuse to use that as an excuse. If I'm hurt, or sick, that's another story. But I feel good, I'm ready to workout.
I'm working out again, filming my workouts, and completing stage one of Power 90.
ONWARD!
Next week, I'll post the change in stats from day 0 to day 30 of Power 90, as well as photos.
Getting Back Into It
Once you have been doing something for a while and something happens where you're unable to do that, it is difficult to get back into it. That's not so with exercising and eating right. Statistically, people experience setbacks, or situations which divert them from their original goal. Unexpected situations, a move, change of jobs... there's always "something".
Yes, I've been fighting a cold. But, I took the appropriate time to get enough sleep, drink enough liquids, eat healthy, and take care of myself. As the cold disappared, and I felt better. Once that happened, I thought "now that you feel better, WHY aren't you working out?" Last Saturday that was my goal. I worked out to Beachbody's "Ho' Ala Ke Kino", which helped me get back into the workouts. Sunday, I picked up Power 90 in the 1-2 series. This was both helpful and motivational because despite the cold, I DID NOT GIVE UP, and for me, that was the drive that I needed. My OWN drive. I did it myself.
Throughout the week, I worked out, yet I was still fighting the tail end of the cold. It didn't stop me. I kept pushing play and working out the best of my ability.
Yesterday, I visited my doctor for a quarterly checkup. The anti-seizure medication is monitored quarterly to make sure the numbers look alright. But on my last visit a few months ago, the medication numbers looked good - but, my cholesterol numbers were bad. The cholesterol jumped up to 264. Towards the end of 2008, I lowered my cholesterol to 185. It went back up because I ran out of cholesterol medicine. Ok, that's a 79 point difference. If I lowered it once before, I could do it again.
Since that visit, I renewed the prescription for my cholesterol medicine and have been taking it daily. My doctor took a blood level to monitor what my cholesterol level was.
Although I'm not "at" where I want to be, I feel better, I am eating cleaner better meals, and I am confident that I will achieve my goals - both with fitness, health, and in life. Most importantly - my posture is straighter, I am much more relaxed (must be an endorphyn thing), and I can "see" my goal. In my mind, I can see what I want my results to be, and I am striving PAST that.
Today, WOWY, Beachbody's super online gym where we log our workouts is under construction. Beachbody is revamping the entire website this week. I have viewed the photos of what the new website will look like, and I'm very confident in the new look. Unfortunately, I won't be able to WOWY my workouts every day.
BUT
Just because WOWY is not working IS NOT AN EXCUSE NOT TO WORKOUT!! Sorry, I refuse to use that as an excuse. If I'm hurt, or sick, that's another story. But I feel good, I'm ready to workout.
I'm working out again, filming my workouts, and completing stage one of Power 90.
ONWARD!
Next week, I'll post the change in stats from day 0 to day 30 of Power 90, as well as photos.
Yes, I've been fighting a cold. But, I took the appropriate time to get enough sleep, drink enough liquids, eat healthy, and take care of myself. As the cold disappared, and I felt better. Once that happened, I thought "now that you feel better, WHY aren't you working out?" Last Saturday that was my goal. I worked out to Beachbody's "Ho' Ala Ke Kino", which helped me get back into the workouts. Sunday, I picked up Power 90 in the 1-2 series. This was both helpful and motivational because despite the cold, I DID NOT GIVE UP, and for me, that was the drive that I needed. My OWN drive. I did it myself.
Throughout the week, I worked out, yet I was still fighting the tail end of the cold. It didn't stop me. I kept pushing play and working out the best of my ability.
Yesterday, I visited my doctor for a quarterly checkup. The anti-seizure medication is monitored quarterly to make sure the numbers look alright. But on my last visit a few months ago, the medication numbers looked good - but, my cholesterol numbers were bad. The cholesterol jumped up to 264. Towards the end of 2008, I lowered my cholesterol to 185. It went back up because I ran out of cholesterol medicine. Ok, that's a 79 point difference. If I lowered it once before, I could do it again.
Since that visit, I renewed the prescription for my cholesterol medicine and have been taking it daily. My doctor took a blood level to monitor what my cholesterol level was.
Although I'm not "at" where I want to be, I feel better, I am eating cleaner better meals, and I am confident that I will achieve my goals - both with fitness, health, and in life. Most importantly - my posture is straighter, I am much more relaxed (must be an endorphyn thing), and I can "see" my goal. In my mind, I can see what I want my results to be, and I am striving PAST that.
Today, WOWY, Beachbody's super online gym where we log our workouts is under construction. Beachbody is revamping the entire website this week. I have viewed the photos of what the new website will look like, and I'm very confident in the new look. Unfortunately, I won't be able to WOWY my workouts every day.
BUT
Just because WOWY is not working IS NOT AN EXCUSE NOT TO WORKOUT!! Sorry, I refuse to use that as an excuse. If I'm hurt, or sick, that's another story. But I feel good, I'm ready to workout.
I'm working out again, filming my workouts, and completing stage one of Power 90.
ONWARD!
Next week, I'll post the change in stats from day 0 to day 30 of Power 90, as well as photos.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
More Books...
A question that arises when one gets sick is, “I’m sick, what am I going to do now?” I drank a lot of liquids (tea with honey, a cup of coffee in the morning), and I also drank water during the day. Someone once told me that “water flushes the toxins of your body”. I just hope it flushed out the cold.
Since I couldn’t workout, I needed something to do. On Saturday, my girlfriend and I went to the bookstore. There were a lot of books mentioned at the Beachbody Coach Summit that I wanted to purchase, and I wanted to read all of them. I purchased many books on Saturday, with the intention to read as many as possible while sick.
During this week, even though I couldn’t workout, I have read three books:
1. “Who Moved My Cheese” by Spencer Johnson, MD
2. “The One-Minute Manager” by Kenneth H. Blanchard and Spencer Johnson
3. “The One-Minute Sales Person” by Spencer Johnson, MD
These are short books, I finished each one in about an hour. The principle of the One-Minute Manager and One-Minute Sales Person were so similar that by the time I was halfway through the One-Minute Sales Person, I knew what the other goals were in the book. This was beneficial because I was able to see more of a broader perspective, and how the one minute manager and the one minute sales person related to each other.
The next book that I’m going to read will really tie all of them together. “The 30 second sales pitch”. Interestingly enough, as a Beachbody coach, I have a tendency to be wordy. Through the books that I have read and the books that I have purchased, I am hoping that they help me become a better person AND a better coach.
Others I have inclued:
- "Eat That Frog" by Brian Tracey
-
Since I couldn’t workout, I needed something to do. On Saturday, my girlfriend and I went to the bookstore. There were a lot of books mentioned at the Beachbody Coach Summit that I wanted to purchase, and I wanted to read all of them. I purchased many books on Saturday, with the intention to read as many as possible while sick.
During this week, even though I couldn’t workout, I have read three books:
1. “Who Moved My Cheese” by Spencer Johnson, MD
2. “The One-Minute Manager” by Kenneth H. Blanchard and Spencer Johnson
3. “The One-Minute Sales Person” by Spencer Johnson, MD
These are short books, I finished each one in about an hour. The principle of the One-Minute Manager and One-Minute Sales Person were so similar that by the time I was halfway through the One-Minute Sales Person, I knew what the other goals were in the book. This was beneficial because I was able to see more of a broader perspective, and how the one minute manager and the one minute sales person related to each other.
The next book that I’m going to read will really tie all of them together. “The 30 second sales pitch”. Interestingly enough, as a Beachbody coach, I have a tendency to be wordy. Through the books that I have read and the books that I have purchased, I am hoping that they help me become a better person AND a better coach.
Others I have inclued:
- "Eat That Frog" by Brian Tracey
-
Getting Sick
As a result of the fluctuating temperatures lately in NJ, I knew that I was bound to get sick one of these days. I did. On Saturday May 23, I succumbed to this cold. I’m a little stubborn, and avoided the over-the-counter remedies because I have had enough of the “FEDs” (Actifed, Sudafed, Un-Sick-Me-Fed). Just kidding. Instead, I chose a different approach by avoiding them and choosing to take more of a natural approach.
I went over to Beachbody’s online store and picked up something called Herbal Immune Boost. Initially, I thought that this stuff would give you an extra boost in the morning in the event you wanted to avoid caffeine. It did MUCH more than that. OMG, this stuff was absolutely incredible!!! Check this out, it does exactly what it says – it fights whatever is in your system to give you an extra boost NATURALLY throughout the day. No caffeine, no drugs, none of that. Plus, just like any other Beachbody supplement that I take, I research every one of the ingredients. I’m talking everything. Why? Because I want to know what “green tea extract” is (for example). I want to understand it and know how that particular ingredient will help me. After researching the ingredients for the Herbal Immune Boost, I purchased it, particularly because I wanted to get rid of this cold bug.
I took this every day, drank a lot of water, and I had hot tea with honey to ease my throat.
By last Saturday, the May 30th, the congestion had broken up, I felt better, and I could tell that the cold was going away. However, I was still coughing.
I couldn’t workout if I was sick, and no way would I even attempt working out if I was coughing. If I couldn’t breath properly (because of the cough), I wouldn’t last 10 minutes – even in Power 90!
Still, I wanted to workout. So, I picked out something very simple. A stretching video by Beachbody called “Ho’ Ala Ke Kino” which is Hawaiian for Awaken The Body. This Beachbody workout by Tony Horton (creator of P90X) was filmed on the beach in Hawaii. It had stretching, light kicks and punches, and light yoga at the end. I broke a good sweat and felt great afterwards. Breaking that sweat is what probably also broke my cold.
Sunday morning, I took a chance. I worked out to Power 90’s Sweat 1-2 and Ab Ripper 100. I took it easy. Instead of working out hard, I focused more on my form instead of speed. In addition, I also kept my upper back straight. This is difficult with scoliosis in ANY workout. For instance, if someone says to me, “touch your toes without bending your knees”, I could. However, in order for me to reach my toes, you would see my upper back curve forward as I reach my toes. Not the most pleasant thing to see. This time, I bent from the waist (like a hinge) and I kept my back straight. I could not reach past my knees, but that is alright because I am confident that this will improve over time.
I have maintained a positive attitude, even when sick. I’m working out again, feeling great, and today is another new day. Now, once I’ve shaken this cold, I will be working out full-force.
I went over to Beachbody’s online store and picked up something called Herbal Immune Boost. Initially, I thought that this stuff would give you an extra boost in the morning in the event you wanted to avoid caffeine. It did MUCH more than that. OMG, this stuff was absolutely incredible!!! Check this out, it does exactly what it says – it fights whatever is in your system to give you an extra boost NATURALLY throughout the day. No caffeine, no drugs, none of that. Plus, just like any other Beachbody supplement that I take, I research every one of the ingredients. I’m talking everything. Why? Because I want to know what “green tea extract” is (for example). I want to understand it and know how that particular ingredient will help me. After researching the ingredients for the Herbal Immune Boost, I purchased it, particularly because I wanted to get rid of this cold bug.
I took this every day, drank a lot of water, and I had hot tea with honey to ease my throat.
By last Saturday, the May 30th, the congestion had broken up, I felt better, and I could tell that the cold was going away. However, I was still coughing.
I couldn’t workout if I was sick, and no way would I even attempt working out if I was coughing. If I couldn’t breath properly (because of the cough), I wouldn’t last 10 minutes – even in Power 90!
Still, I wanted to workout. So, I picked out something very simple. A stretching video by Beachbody called “Ho’ Ala Ke Kino” which is Hawaiian for Awaken The Body. This Beachbody workout by Tony Horton (creator of P90X) was filmed on the beach in Hawaii. It had stretching, light kicks and punches, and light yoga at the end. I broke a good sweat and felt great afterwards. Breaking that sweat is what probably also broke my cold.
Sunday morning, I took a chance. I worked out to Power 90’s Sweat 1-2 and Ab Ripper 100. I took it easy. Instead of working out hard, I focused more on my form instead of speed. In addition, I also kept my upper back straight. This is difficult with scoliosis in ANY workout. For instance, if someone says to me, “touch your toes without bending your knees”, I could. However, in order for me to reach my toes, you would see my upper back curve forward as I reach my toes. Not the most pleasant thing to see. This time, I bent from the waist (like a hinge) and I kept my back straight. I could not reach past my knees, but that is alright because I am confident that this will improve over time.
I have maintained a positive attitude, even when sick. I’m working out again, feeling great, and today is another new day. Now, once I’ve shaken this cold, I will be working out full-force.
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