Day #21
January 23, 2009
(9 days until the Super Bowl)
Today is the day that the program guarantees that you will at least start seeing results. Well, we know that I already have. Of course, it isn’t supposed to be the 90 day results, just enough that you know that it is starting to work.
Fridays are supposed to be my day of rest, but since I did so poorly in the beginning of the week, I decided to exercise through today. Jason and I have plans to go to a hockey game tonight, so to exercise I had to get up at 5am. Really, it’s not too bad because I usually get up around 5:30am, but it takes me a while to be human, so to workout first thing was the challenge.
I did it, though. Nothing new to report, but I do think that I get a better workout in the evening. Still using the 5 pound weights. They actually seemed a little more difficult this time, which I usually find to be the case. I don’t think that it will take me too long to get used to them. And now I can enjoy my day and the game without the workout hanging over my head.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Best. Cardio. Ever.
Day #20
January 22, 2009
(10 days to the Super Bowl)
Who's awesome? You guessed it. I am awesome.
I did the complete cardio workout tonight. Every jumping jack and every cross hop. If you aren’t that familiar with Power 90, cardio is broken down into two sections. The first is the knee lifts, jumping jacks, running, and x-work and the second is the kickboxing. So, the exercises that I was struggling with the most are in the first part. Once I was finished with that and knew that I had FINALLY done it, the rest of the workout went so much better. It was just such a motivator. I don’t think that I have ever sweated that much during cardio. I don’t think I have ever felt that good after it. I even improved in the Abs 100 and I think most of that was the satisfaction and motivation from finishing. I am so happy right now!
January 22, 2009
(10 days to the Super Bowl)
Who's awesome? You guessed it. I am awesome.
I did the complete cardio workout tonight. Every jumping jack and every cross hop. If you aren’t that familiar with Power 90, cardio is broken down into two sections. The first is the knee lifts, jumping jacks, running, and x-work and the second is the kickboxing. So, the exercises that I was struggling with the most are in the first part. Once I was finished with that and knew that I had FINALLY done it, the rest of the workout went so much better. It was just such a motivator. I don’t think that I have ever sweated that much during cardio. I don’t think I have ever felt that good after it. I even improved in the Abs 100 and I think most of that was the satisfaction and motivation from finishing. I am so happy right now!
Added weight.
Day #19
January 21, 2009
(11 days to the Super Bowl)
It was a circuit night, so I decided to increase my weights from 3 pounds to 5 pounds. I didn’t think it sounded like that big of a deal. Just 2 measly pounds. But, I didn’t consider that I was almost doubling the weight. Spoiler alert! I did finish the workout with the 5 pound weights.
This totally took it to an entire new level, though. Circuit became my favorite for two main reasons: #1 – it was always easier to complete and #2 – I don’t sweat during it (it takes a lot for me to sweat anyway). Both of these were thrown out the window with the increased weight. Each exercise was much more difficult to complete and I could feel the different muscles working which never happened before. Well, maybe the first few times… Also, I was sweating. The effort that I had to put forth for this was enough to make me sweat. AND, the push ups were actually a little easier tonight. Could it be the increased weight or was I already getting that much stronger?
I love working with the 5 pound weights. I like the idea that I will probably see results quicker. I don’t feel that they are too heavy, but definitely am glad that I worked up to them. And now circuit is a little more challenging, which is making it even more fun. I guess I am just a circuit girl.
Now, I just wonder how much soreness all of this will cause tomorrow…
January 21, 2009
(11 days to the Super Bowl)
It was a circuit night, so I decided to increase my weights from 3 pounds to 5 pounds. I didn’t think it sounded like that big of a deal. Just 2 measly pounds. But, I didn’t consider that I was almost doubling the weight. Spoiler alert! I did finish the workout with the 5 pound weights.
This totally took it to an entire new level, though. Circuit became my favorite for two main reasons: #1 – it was always easier to complete and #2 – I don’t sweat during it (it takes a lot for me to sweat anyway). Both of these were thrown out the window with the increased weight. Each exercise was much more difficult to complete and I could feel the different muscles working which never happened before. Well, maybe the first few times… Also, I was sweating. The effort that I had to put forth for this was enough to make me sweat. AND, the push ups were actually a little easier tonight. Could it be the increased weight or was I already getting that much stronger?
I love working with the 5 pound weights. I like the idea that I will probably see results quicker. I don’t feel that they are too heavy, but definitely am glad that I worked up to them. And now circuit is a little more challenging, which is making it even more fun. I guess I am just a circuit girl.
Now, I just wonder how much soreness all of this will cause tomorrow…
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Finally feeling 100%
Day #18
January 20, 2009
(12 days to the Super Bowl)
I know I am not supposed to weigh myself more than weekly, but I just couldn't help it this morning. Yesterday I ate close to perfectly, got in over six cups of water, and worked out. And I am glad I did because I am 152 this morning! Also, I could swear my stomach looks slightly flatter.
I was definitely under the weather the other day. During yoga, I was correcting myself and working on a perfect push-up, which was not at all what I was doing on Sunday.
For the first time, my feet didn’t hurt. Usually my feet get sore during the jumping jacks and it just continues through the rest of the routine. Not this time, it was just my calves. Which is also normal. Made it through the jumping jacks again, but was pretty tired during the x-work and kickboxing. I keep increasing my cross hops with each work out, though, which is good.
I realized tonight how difficult it is to do the Abs 100. My abdominals are definitely getting stronger and I can even feel them through the flab now, but I still cannot get through the Abs 100. I am just not strong enough to do all of the stuff with the legs. I feel like half of the workout is just lost on me because I am just not strong enough to do it. Of course, I still give it a go every time and I have seen some minor improvements, but very, very minor.
January 20, 2009
(12 days to the Super Bowl)
I know I am not supposed to weigh myself more than weekly, but I just couldn't help it this morning. Yesterday I ate close to perfectly, got in over six cups of water, and worked out. And I am glad I did because I am 152 this morning! Also, I could swear my stomach looks slightly flatter.
I was definitely under the weather the other day. During yoga, I was correcting myself and working on a perfect push-up, which was not at all what I was doing on Sunday.
For the first time, my feet didn’t hurt. Usually my feet get sore during the jumping jacks and it just continues through the rest of the routine. Not this time, it was just my calves. Which is also normal. Made it through the jumping jacks again, but was pretty tired during the x-work and kickboxing. I keep increasing my cross hops with each work out, though, which is good.
I realized tonight how difficult it is to do the Abs 100. My abdominals are definitely getting stronger and I can even feel them through the flab now, but I still cannot get through the Abs 100. I am just not strong enough to do all of the stuff with the legs. I feel like half of the workout is just lost on me because I am just not strong enough to do it. Of course, I still give it a go every time and I have seen some minor improvements, but very, very minor.
Back in the saddle.
Day #17
January 19, 2009
Okay, so I think I was a little under the weather yesterday. I wasn't myself all day and kept getting really tired (for no apparent reason) and then I did get sick in the middle of the night. I am super tired today, and my stomach was still acting up in the morning, but by the afternoon I was starting to feel 100%. I was probably at about 90% by the time work was over.
Now I have a very real goal. Steelers are going to the Super Bowl! Yay! That gives me about two weeks to take off enough weight to fit into those jeans. Obviously, I cannot skip a work out, but I also am watching my food much more carefully. Much, much smaller portions and better choices. It is crunch time.
I am still noticing the small changes. This morning, when I was drying my hair, I turned into a position where I could definitely see the beginning of lines to stomach muscles. My stomach is my biggest problem area. It is huge, and I am not exaggerating. I have spent the last few years learning to buy clothes that hide my stomach. So, these lines are a huge feat. Not that the Power 90 isn't helping with that, but I do have to give most of the credit to Perfect Abs. That DVD tones stomach muscles faster than anything I have ever tried. And just like Power 90, she doesn't do anything tricky, just some basic crunches and a few other exercises to target what the crunches are not getting. Plus, she goes for 8 – 9 minutes without a break and Power 90 is only about 4 minutes with lots of rests in between, so there is twice as much going on in Perfect Abs. I should really get on Amazon and recommend it!
I am currently using 3 pound weights and debating increasing my weights to 5 pounds for some of the exercises. Actually, most of them. I can see the muscles building in my arms, but my arms are another problem area, and a lot of the exercises are starting to feel too easy. I don't think that I am ready to move to the next phase (I still struggle a bit with the push ups and arm dips), but I am definitely stronger than I was when I started. Plus, I already have the weights.
January 19, 2009
Okay, so I think I was a little under the weather yesterday. I wasn't myself all day and kept getting really tired (for no apparent reason) and then I did get sick in the middle of the night. I am super tired today, and my stomach was still acting up in the morning, but by the afternoon I was starting to feel 100%. I was probably at about 90% by the time work was over.
Now I have a very real goal. Steelers are going to the Super Bowl! Yay! That gives me about two weeks to take off enough weight to fit into those jeans. Obviously, I cannot skip a work out, but I also am watching my food much more carefully. Much, much smaller portions and better choices. It is crunch time.
I am still noticing the small changes. This morning, when I was drying my hair, I turned into a position where I could definitely see the beginning of lines to stomach muscles. My stomach is my biggest problem area. It is huge, and I am not exaggerating. I have spent the last few years learning to buy clothes that hide my stomach. So, these lines are a huge feat. Not that the Power 90 isn't helping with that, but I do have to give most of the credit to Perfect Abs. That DVD tones stomach muscles faster than anything I have ever tried. And just like Power 90, she doesn't do anything tricky, just some basic crunches and a few other exercises to target what the crunches are not getting. Plus, she goes for 8 – 9 minutes without a break and Power 90 is only about 4 minutes with lots of rests in between, so there is twice as much going on in Perfect Abs. I should really get on Amazon and recommend it!
I am currently using 3 pound weights and debating increasing my weights to 5 pounds for some of the exercises. Actually, most of them. I can see the muscles building in my arms, but my arms are another problem area, and a lot of the exercises are starting to feel too easy. I don't think that I am ready to move to the next phase (I still struggle a bit with the push ups and arm dips), but I am definitely stronger than I was when I started. Plus, I already have the weights.
In a rut?
Day #16
January 18, 2009
I don't really know what's wrong with me today. I put on the clothes, got down to the basement, started the DVD, and almost got through the power yoga, but just could not bring myself to finish. I have only done that once before, and I was really sick that time and tried to push it. I never give up once I start it. Especially after such a bad weigh in yesterday. I really don't know what was wrong with me…
January 18, 2009
I don't really know what's wrong with me today. I put on the clothes, got down to the basement, started the DVD, and almost got through the power yoga, but just could not bring myself to finish. I have only done that once before, and I was really sick that time and tried to push it. I never give up once I start it. Especially after such a bad weigh in yesterday. I really don't know what was wrong with me…
Busy, busy.
Day #15
January 17, 2009
I swear I had total intention to work out today. Unfortunately, the day did not allow it. I had made plans forever ago to go to Mallorca in Cleveland with Claudia to celebrate my 28th birthday (yes, I am 30). I did one of those where I get up at like 2am for no reason and can't get back to sleep until 5am or so, so I slept in much later than I wanted. Next thing I new, it was time to go. So, off we went.
Jason and I had plans to meet his friends for dinner that night. I could work out in between Cleveland and dinner, right? Um, wrong. After lunch, we decided to stop at the Lodi outlet mall. We had to drive past it anyway. I got home just in time to change my shirt and off to the McElroys for dinner. Way too much wine later and pretty late at night, I got home and put myself into bed. So, not today, I guess.
Regrettably, I did weigh myself this morning and it was not good. 153.4 – up 1/10 of a pound. Ugh.
January 17, 2009
I swear I had total intention to work out today. Unfortunately, the day did not allow it. I had made plans forever ago to go to Mallorca in Cleveland with Claudia to celebrate my 28th birthday (yes, I am 30). I did one of those where I get up at like 2am for no reason and can't get back to sleep until 5am or so, so I slept in much later than I wanted. Next thing I new, it was time to go. So, off we went.
Jason and I had plans to meet his friends for dinner that night. I could work out in between Cleveland and dinner, right? Um, wrong. After lunch, we decided to stop at the Lodi outlet mall. We had to drive past it anyway. I got home just in time to change my shirt and off to the McElroys for dinner. Way too much wine later and pretty late at night, I got home and put myself into bed. So, not today, I guess.
Regrettably, I did weigh myself this morning and it was not good. 153.4 – up 1/10 of a pound. Ugh.
Cardio can still be so frustrating.
Day #14
January 16, 2008
Since I skipped on Wednesday, I had to make up for it today. I had the perfect Friday night planned. I really wanted to come home, pour a glass of wine, make some jambalaya, and catch up with my DVR. Jason goes to poker on Fridays, so it's just me and the kids (by kids I mean pets). But, where would Power 90 fit into all of this? Easy, right after work, get it over with as quickly as possible. And that is just what I did.
It was a cardio night. Cardio endurance is strange for me. Sometimes I can get through portions and the very next time I struggle to finish the same thing. That is kind of what happened tonight. I was pretty much getting through all of the jumping jacks with very little struggle. Tonight, though, I just could not do the second set. My calves were screaming and I was just exhausted. Maybe because it was a Friday night? There is a reason that I picked Friday night as my day/night of rest. Then, my x-work suffered because I was so exhausted from the jumping jacks. It was frustrating, but I finished.
And I did reward myself with a delicious bowl of some of the best jambalaya I have ever made. Surprisingly, I was not able to eat nearly as much as I usually can. Could my stomach be shrinking? Maybe I mentally would not let myself after exercising? I don't know, but I like it.
January 16, 2008
Since I skipped on Wednesday, I had to make up for it today. I had the perfect Friday night planned. I really wanted to come home, pour a glass of wine, make some jambalaya, and catch up with my DVR. Jason goes to poker on Fridays, so it's just me and the kids (by kids I mean pets). But, where would Power 90 fit into all of this? Easy, right after work, get it over with as quickly as possible. And that is just what I did.
It was a cardio night. Cardio endurance is strange for me. Sometimes I can get through portions and the very next time I struggle to finish the same thing. That is kind of what happened tonight. I was pretty much getting through all of the jumping jacks with very little struggle. Tonight, though, I just could not do the second set. My calves were screaming and I was just exhausted. Maybe because it was a Friday night? There is a reason that I picked Friday night as my day/night of rest. Then, my x-work suffered because I was so exhausted from the jumping jacks. It was frustrating, but I finished.
And I did reward myself with a delicious bowl of some of the best jambalaya I have ever made. Surprisingly, I was not able to eat nearly as much as I usually can. Could my stomach be shrinking? Maybe I mentally would not let myself after exercising? I don't know, but I like it.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Amazing body cometh!
Day #13
January 15, 2009
I realized that once I start the workout, I am fine and even enjoy it. It is the getting myself to do it that I am not very good at. The devil tried her work again tonight, but before she could even engage me in conversation, I told her that I had to go, but would be back later. She told me that I was being mysterious, but I didn’t have time to explain, I had to knock this out.
I was right on Tuesday – I was sinking into my shoulders which was causing the pain. Now that I am aware of it, I am hoping that my arms will get stronger.
Negative of the day:
I tried on the Steelers jeans after I exercised. No difference in the fit. Actually, since I was a little sweaty, it was even more difficult to put them on. Very frustrating.
Positive of the day:
Jason said that he noticed a difference in my arms. I looked in the mirror and didn’t see a change, but when I flexed and felt them, there was a very noticeable difference. I can see results!
Still no change in how my clothes fit or my weight (that I can tell), but I really feel like all of this is going to catch up with me soon and I am going to start seeing drastic changes quickly. I really hope so.
January 15, 2009
I realized that once I start the workout, I am fine and even enjoy it. It is the getting myself to do it that I am not very good at. The devil tried her work again tonight, but before she could even engage me in conversation, I told her that I had to go, but would be back later. She told me that I was being mysterious, but I didn’t have time to explain, I had to knock this out.
I was right on Tuesday – I was sinking into my shoulders which was causing the pain. Now that I am aware of it, I am hoping that my arms will get stronger.
Negative of the day:
I tried on the Steelers jeans after I exercised. No difference in the fit. Actually, since I was a little sweaty, it was even more difficult to put them on. Very frustrating.
Positive of the day:
Jason said that he noticed a difference in my arms. I looked in the mirror and didn’t see a change, but when I flexed and felt them, there was a very noticeable difference. I can see results!
Still no change in how my clothes fit or my weight (that I can tell), but I really feel like all of this is going to catch up with me soon and I am going to start seeing drastic changes quickly. I really hope so.
Snow sucks.
Day #12
January 14, 2009
What a day! Crazy Ohio weather. It started snowing at about 10am at work. By 5pm, I found myself driving home through a Level 2 (in Ohio there are only 3 levels and the third one you are not allowed on the roads, so this is just one step before that). Needless to say, it took me over twice as long to get home tonight, plus tons of added stress. Since I don’t have any plans this Friday night (poor me), I have decided to postpone my workout until then. And, I need to switch up my days a little next week because of some after work commitments, so this will actually be better for that.
January 14, 2009
What a day! Crazy Ohio weather. It started snowing at about 10am at work. By 5pm, I found myself driving home through a Level 2 (in Ohio there are only 3 levels and the third one you are not allowed on the roads, so this is just one step before that). Needless to say, it took me over twice as long to get home tonight, plus tons of added stress. Since I don’t have any plans this Friday night (poor me), I have decided to postpone my workout until then. And, I need to switch up my days a little next week because of some after work commitments, so this will actually be better for that.
I am past my last attempt!
Day #11
January 13, 2009
I made it past day #10! Yay!
I met the devil tonight. She is my sister and her name is Jamie and she tries to tempt me with wedding planning. We chat online and look at dresses and shoes for hours at a time. Not only discussing ourselves, but what would look amazing on the rest of her wedding party. She must understand that if we are going to look good in those dresses that we can’t stop looking at, then we have to improve our bodies. Quit tempting me with your shopping! I can overcome you!
Anyway, after hours online, I did exercise tonight. It put me to bed waaaayyy too late and I will be a tired mess tomorrow. Good thing I did though, because I figured out why my shoulders and neck have been hurting and sore lately. I still can’t quite bust out the last set of push-ups and when I get tired I sink into my shoulders, putting the strain there and using those muscles instead of my arms. So, I noticed that I was doing this today. So, I corrected and we will see if I am as sore tomorrow, or if this improves it.
January 13, 2009
I made it past day #10! Yay!
I met the devil tonight. She is my sister and her name is Jamie and she tries to tempt me with wedding planning. We chat online and look at dresses and shoes for hours at a time. Not only discussing ourselves, but what would look amazing on the rest of her wedding party. She must understand that if we are going to look good in those dresses that we can’t stop looking at, then we have to improve our bodies. Quit tempting me with your shopping! I can overcome you!
Anyway, after hours online, I did exercise tonight. It put me to bed waaaayyy too late and I will be a tired mess tomorrow. Good thing I did though, because I figured out why my shoulders and neck have been hurting and sore lately. I still can’t quite bust out the last set of push-ups and when I get tired I sink into my shoulders, putting the strain there and using those muscles instead of my arms. So, I noticed that I was doing this today. So, I corrected and we will see if I am as sore tomorrow, or if this improves it.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Maybe cardio isn't so bad...
Day #10
January 12, 2009
This is the first time that I really thought I saw an improvement in the cardio. And all of the stretching and moving felt good on my sore muscles. I got through most of the video without modifications. I think I may actually be getting stronger. I may even get to move to the next phase one of these days. I have to admit, now I am more excited about doing the cardio then I was before. I love seeing the improvements.
I have not seen any difference with how my clothes fit, so I am hoping those kind of improvements are just around the corner. I do feel stronger and I am more aware of my muscles, plus have built a little endurance. I think the body changes will be happening in the near future (or at least I hope that they will)!
January 12, 2009
This is the first time that I really thought I saw an improvement in the cardio. And all of the stretching and moving felt good on my sore muscles. I got through most of the video without modifications. I think I may actually be getting stronger. I may even get to move to the next phase one of these days. I have to admit, now I am more excited about doing the cardio then I was before. I love seeing the improvements.
I have not seen any difference with how my clothes fit, so I am hoping those kind of improvements are just around the corner. I do feel stronger and I am more aware of my muscles, plus have built a little endurance. I think the body changes will be happening in the near future (or at least I hope that they will)!
Ouch. So sore.
Day #9
January 11, 2008
Remember how proud I was yesterday, not letting myself slack and all? I cannot even describe how sore I am today. Mostly in my shoulders and neck. I really need a good massage. I didn’t even really enjoy the circuit as much as usual. At least I know it is working!
January 11, 2008
Remember how proud I was yesterday, not letting myself slack and all? I cannot even describe how sore I am today. Mostly in my shoulders and neck. I really need a good massage. I didn’t even really enjoy the circuit as much as usual. At least I know it is working!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
First weigh in.
Day #8
January 10, 2009
My first weigh in day. Not the results I was hoping for (I am not a very patient person), but I did lose a little weight. Now I am at 153.2 – almost two pounds.
I did not want to get off of the couch today. I did watch the P90X infomercial this morning and it got me somewhat motivated, but I quickly distracted myself and it was easily forgotten. I have just wanted to eat pure sugar lately, too. I don’t even care about real food – just give me straight candy. I think Christmas ruined me.
Jason left to watch some football with friends and I was home alone and figured that if I was going to work out, I would have to do it then. So, I did, at about 6pm. I did realize some more stuff tonight, though. Now that I know the routines better, I don’t have to look at the television nearly as much. I liked the countdown on the bottom before, because I found it more motivating. This time, though, I could do more if I didn’t look at the countdown. And the bonus was that when I wasn’t staring at the television, I was working harder on correcting myself and improving my form. It’s good all over. I got through a lot more tonight. I would really push myself more, too. I could feel myself start to slack and then I would try to keep telling myself that it doesn’t work if you only half do it - you have got to give it your all.
One more realization. I hung up the Steelers jeans where I exercise hoping for some motivation. I was looking at them last night for some added push. When I took them off the hanger, I noticed the tag. They are not marked as size 8, they are a 28. No wonder the fit was so off. I hate it when people try to translate inches into a size. If they would have indicated that, then I would have just bought the size in inches that fits me. Anyway, I looked back at my measurements and realized that I am a 32 waist. That means I have to lose 4 inches to get into those. Ugh.
January 10, 2009
My first weigh in day. Not the results I was hoping for (I am not a very patient person), but I did lose a little weight. Now I am at 153.2 – almost two pounds.
I did not want to get off of the couch today. I did watch the P90X infomercial this morning and it got me somewhat motivated, but I quickly distracted myself and it was easily forgotten. I have just wanted to eat pure sugar lately, too. I don’t even care about real food – just give me straight candy. I think Christmas ruined me.
Jason left to watch some football with friends and I was home alone and figured that if I was going to work out, I would have to do it then. So, I did, at about 6pm. I did realize some more stuff tonight, though. Now that I know the routines better, I don’t have to look at the television nearly as much. I liked the countdown on the bottom before, because I found it more motivating. This time, though, I could do more if I didn’t look at the countdown. And the bonus was that when I wasn’t staring at the television, I was working harder on correcting myself and improving my form. It’s good all over. I got through a lot more tonight. I would really push myself more, too. I could feel myself start to slack and then I would try to keep telling myself that it doesn’t work if you only half do it - you have got to give it your all.
One more realization. I hung up the Steelers jeans where I exercise hoping for some motivation. I was looking at them last night for some added push. When I took them off the hanger, I noticed the tag. They are not marked as size 8, they are a 28. No wonder the fit was so off. I hate it when people try to translate inches into a size. If they would have indicated that, then I would have just bought the size in inches that fits me. Anyway, I looked back at my measurements and realized that I am a 32 waist. That means I have to lose 4 inches to get into those. Ugh.
Fat armpits?
Day #6
January 8, 2009
I finally figured out a lot of my cardio dread – I don’t feel like I am making any progress, so it still seems so overwhelming. Maybe overwhelming isn’t the best word, but no one likes doing stuff that they are bad at, especially repetitively. And there are no tricky moves or anything. It just wears me out.
Also, my armpit muscles are killing me. I don’t know what it is called, but it is sore. I am going to have the most toned armpits ever.
I am looking forward to tomorrow – my day of rest.
January 8, 2009
I finally figured out a lot of my cardio dread – I don’t feel like I am making any progress, so it still seems so overwhelming. Maybe overwhelming isn’t the best word, but no one likes doing stuff that they are bad at, especially repetitively. And there are no tricky moves or anything. It just wears me out.
Also, my armpit muscles are killing me. I don’t know what it is called, but it is sore. I am going to have the most toned armpits ever.
I am looking forward to tomorrow – my day of rest.
Muscles...coming soon.
Day #5
January 7, 2009
Another circuit day. I do really like the circuit. I am even getting much better at the arm dips. I don’t feel as strong with the 21 push ups in the end, but the first few sets I am able to knock out. I think that my form is much better, so I am actually working the muscles that I am supposed to and now the push ups are getting slightly more difficult.
Also, I love that when I do the exercises and look in the mirror, I can actually see my muscles working. I feel like muscles breaking through the fat for more definition and being toned is just around the corner.
January 7, 2009
Another circuit day. I do really like the circuit. I am even getting much better at the arm dips. I don’t feel as strong with the 21 push ups in the end, but the first few sets I am able to knock out. I think that my form is much better, so I am actually working the muscles that I am supposed to and now the push ups are getting slightly more difficult.
Also, I love that when I do the exercises and look in the mirror, I can actually see my muscles working. I feel like muscles breaking through the fat for more definition and being toned is just around the corner.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
10 things I hate about you:
Day #4
January 6, 2009
There are so many things that I dislike about this cardio. Apparently, when it comes to this, I am a complainer.
#1 – I love yoga, but don’t really enjoy this power yoga. All the past yoga classes that I have taken have been more about challenging yourself by hitting poses and fluent motions instead of flying through everything. I am just not used to it, and I really miss my old yoga.
#2 – I am totally not strong enough to make it through this routine. I can get through the power yoga (not happily, see #1), but up next is the knees. The leg part is okay, and I can usually make it through that okay, but the arms kill me. After that the jumping jacks and those stupid lunge runs. I can’t make it through one set of either (and there are two sets of everything). Next, my nemesis, the “x” work. I don’t mind the first two exercises, but those diagonal hops do me in every time and then I am just exhausted. My legs scream and hate me before the first break. I like the kickboxing, but I am so exhausted by then I just want to be finished.
#3 – My lungs can’t make it through, either. Same scenario as #2, but instead of muscle exhaustion, just a lot of panting.
Well, I think that is really all I have, so I guess I can pick apart everything with just three points. I obviously did the work out tonight. But I cannot motivate to do it. I can come home from a bar during a football game and motivate myself for circuit, but just sitting around and having time to do cardio, I try to find every excuse not to do it. I really hope that it gets easier. I really want to feel motivated and be into it.
One good point – I really feel my form getting a lot better. At least on the kickboxing. I really watched myself in the mirrors tonight and tried to correct myself and I started feeling it a lot more in my inner thighs. I just really feel like I am executing the movements a lot better. Now if I could just build up a little endurance.
January 6, 2009
There are so many things that I dislike about this cardio. Apparently, when it comes to this, I am a complainer.
#1 – I love yoga, but don’t really enjoy this power yoga. All the past yoga classes that I have taken have been more about challenging yourself by hitting poses and fluent motions instead of flying through everything. I am just not used to it, and I really miss my old yoga.
#2 – I am totally not strong enough to make it through this routine. I can get through the power yoga (not happily, see #1), but up next is the knees. The leg part is okay, and I can usually make it through that okay, but the arms kill me. After that the jumping jacks and those stupid lunge runs. I can’t make it through one set of either (and there are two sets of everything). Next, my nemesis, the “x” work. I don’t mind the first two exercises, but those diagonal hops do me in every time and then I am just exhausted. My legs scream and hate me before the first break. I like the kickboxing, but I am so exhausted by then I just want to be finished.
#3 – My lungs can’t make it through, either. Same scenario as #2, but instead of muscle exhaustion, just a lot of panting.
Well, I think that is really all I have, so I guess I can pick apart everything with just three points. I obviously did the work out tonight. But I cannot motivate to do it. I can come home from a bar during a football game and motivate myself for circuit, but just sitting around and having time to do cardio, I try to find every excuse not to do it. I really hope that it gets easier. I really want to feel motivated and be into it.
One good point – I really feel my form getting a lot better. At least on the kickboxing. I really watched myself in the mirrors tonight and tried to correct myself and I started feeling it a lot more in my inner thighs. I just really feel like I am executing the movements a lot better. Now if I could just build up a little endurance.
I did it!
Day #3
January 5, 2008
I did it. During halftime after two beers, I made my way home for some circuit.
I really like the circuit routine. The only part that I dislike is the chair dips. I can feel myself getting stronger, or at least sorer, and I really like this one. Anyway, my buckeyes were up at halftime, so I decided to take this opportunity to do some circuit. In full fan gear, I busted out the work out, only to return to the game and watch my guys lose in the last 16 seconds. 16 SECONDS!!!!!
Oh yeah, back to Power 90. I am currently using 3 pound weights and have set up mirrors to the front and to one side of me. These mirrors have really helped with my form and I can really feel the full effects of each exercise. I recently bought 5 pound weights, hoping to eventually increase, but the 3 pounds are enough of a challenge for me right now.
I also did the kickboxing Perfect Abs (beginner) and although she really can whip your stomach into shape, I really don’t like her. I hate the lies. Tony Horton totally deserves credit for the timer constantly running on the bottom of the screen. You always know where you stand and I find that more motivating.
Hopefully I will actually do cardio tomorrow minus the excuses.
January 5, 2008
I did it. During halftime after two beers, I made my way home for some circuit.
I really like the circuit routine. The only part that I dislike is the chair dips. I can feel myself getting stronger, or at least sorer, and I really like this one. Anyway, my buckeyes were up at halftime, so I decided to take this opportunity to do some circuit. In full fan gear, I busted out the work out, only to return to the game and watch my guys lose in the last 16 seconds. 16 SECONDS!!!!!
Oh yeah, back to Power 90. I am currently using 3 pound weights and have set up mirrors to the front and to one side of me. These mirrors have really helped with my form and I can really feel the full effects of each exercise. I recently bought 5 pound weights, hoping to eventually increase, but the 3 pounds are enough of a challenge for me right now.
I also did the kickboxing Perfect Abs (beginner) and although she really can whip your stomach into shape, I really don’t like her. I hate the lies. Tony Horton totally deserves credit for the timer constantly running on the bottom of the screen. You always know where you stand and I find that more motivating.
Hopefully I will actually do cardio tomorrow minus the excuses.
Oopsie.
Day #2
January 4, 2009
Don’t worry – I have not left you again. I have gotten behind in everything in life, though. I am ready for another extended break from work.
Anyway, this is the day that I was too hung over to exercise. I really didn’t mean for today to be my break, but circumstances (aka shots) from the previous night (morning?) have prevented me from exercising. And, hey, it was cardio, so everyone knows how I hate that, right?
The Fiesta Bowl is tomorrow night, and I am an Ohio State fan, and I have to now commit to taking time out of the precious game to continue my work out regime. I am dedicated - I swear!
January 4, 2009
Don’t worry – I have not left you again. I have gotten behind in everything in life, though. I am ready for another extended break from work.
Anyway, this is the day that I was too hung over to exercise. I really didn’t mean for today to be my break, but circumstances (aka shots) from the previous night (morning?) have prevented me from exercising. And, hey, it was cardio, so everyone knows how I hate that, right?
The Fiesta Bowl is tomorrow night, and I am an Ohio State fan, and I have to now commit to taking time out of the precious game to continue my work out regime. I am dedicated - I swear!
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Here we go again...
Day #1
January 3, 2009
Okay, let’s start this over again. I had an unexpected mini-disaster in my life, but now (hopefully!) I will be back on track. Since I only got through two weeks before, I figured it is just time for me to start the entire Power 90 over. I wish I could be one of those people who could come back and say something like, “A new year – a new me!”, but I am definitely not. I mean, already I am proving my procrastination by writing this blog entry to avoid starting to exercise.
I do have a new year’s resolution and Power 90 is not it. My resolution is the same one I make year after year, so obviously I am not good at it yet. I try to make it simple, nothing that will set me up for disaster, but still, I am terrible at day to day routines. Now that I have you curious (or you just don’t care and want me to get on with the Power 90), my only resolution is to take my necessary vitamins every night. When I do, I can really tell a difference, and feel a lot better. But, for me, it only takes one night of forgetting and I am done for at least a month, or until I realize that I would feel a lot better if I would just take them and the cycle repeats. Lame, but true.
Anyway, since I am starting over, I have decided to take Power 90s advice and come up with three goals for the program, so here goes:
#1: Lose 30 pounds (I am starting at exactly 155 and my goal is 125).
#2: Fit into my Steelers’ jeans (I bought an evil pair of size 8, which is usually my size, Steelers’ jeans that I just love. Unfortunately, the jeans, although marked an 8, are actually closer to between a 4 and a 6 (hence the evil part). I tried to exchange them and there are no sizes anywhere available. Completely sold out. Since I do love them so, instead of returning them, I am determined to fit into them).
#3: Finish Power 90 (I know this seems obvious, but if you know me, you know that I have to write it down).
Those are all three goals. I will let you know if and when I hit all of them.
Now for the embarrassing part – my weight and measurements. Also, I am hopeful to take pictures this time, and if I actually do, I will post it soon. Anyway, here goes.
Weight: 155
Chest: 38
Waist: 32
Hip: 40
Right Mid-Thigh: 24
Left Mid-Thigh: 24.5
Right Upper Arm: 13
Left Upper Arm: 13
Now off to start with circuit. I will continue this after the workout.
I am back. And I did it! I am always WAY more excited about exercising after I have already finished with it for the day. Anyway, I realized doing the circuit that I kind of missed it. Plus, my first workout is usually one of the best because I am still so motivated. My arms are burning right now. And when I took a shower afterwards, my legs where a little shaky when I would try to balance on just one.
I forgot to mention that the days I am doing the circuit, I am also going to be doing another video called “Perfect Abs”. This is not Tony Horton (btw-I always want to write Tim Horton, yum!), and honestly, I can’t remember the girl’s name, but it has six different abs routines, three beginner and three advanced, all around 10 minutes. So, the three days a week for circuit, I do one of the beginner routines after it rotating them. I had done this video before and saw dramatic results. Now a warning, this lady is the typical nice workout person, but she is a liar. She loves to tell you that you only have four more and then makes you do eight. But, if you get through and manage not to throw a shoe through the television, the results are amazing. The last time I did this one, it was only for about two or three weeks, and I already started to see the six-pack form. And my stomach is my BIGGEST problem area (see measurements above!).
I am finished for today. Tomorrow is the dreaded cardio.
January 3, 2009
Okay, let’s start this over again. I had an unexpected mini-disaster in my life, but now (hopefully!) I will be back on track. Since I only got through two weeks before, I figured it is just time for me to start the entire Power 90 over. I wish I could be one of those people who could come back and say something like, “A new year – a new me!”, but I am definitely not. I mean, already I am proving my procrastination by writing this blog entry to avoid starting to exercise.
I do have a new year’s resolution and Power 90 is not it. My resolution is the same one I make year after year, so obviously I am not good at it yet. I try to make it simple, nothing that will set me up for disaster, but still, I am terrible at day to day routines. Now that I have you curious (or you just don’t care and want me to get on with the Power 90), my only resolution is to take my necessary vitamins every night. When I do, I can really tell a difference, and feel a lot better. But, for me, it only takes one night of forgetting and I am done for at least a month, or until I realize that I would feel a lot better if I would just take them and the cycle repeats. Lame, but true.
Anyway, since I am starting over, I have decided to take Power 90s advice and come up with three goals for the program, so here goes:
#1: Lose 30 pounds (I am starting at exactly 155 and my goal is 125).
#2: Fit into my Steelers’ jeans (I bought an evil pair of size 8, which is usually my size, Steelers’ jeans that I just love. Unfortunately, the jeans, although marked an 8, are actually closer to between a 4 and a 6 (hence the evil part). I tried to exchange them and there are no sizes anywhere available. Completely sold out. Since I do love them so, instead of returning them, I am determined to fit into them).
#3: Finish Power 90 (I know this seems obvious, but if you know me, you know that I have to write it down).
Those are all three goals. I will let you know if and when I hit all of them.
Now for the embarrassing part – my weight and measurements. Also, I am hopeful to take pictures this time, and if I actually do, I will post it soon. Anyway, here goes.
Weight: 155
Chest: 38
Waist: 32
Hip: 40
Right Mid-Thigh: 24
Left Mid-Thigh: 24.5
Right Upper Arm: 13
Left Upper Arm: 13
Now off to start with circuit. I will continue this after the workout.
I am back. And I did it! I am always WAY more excited about exercising after I have already finished with it for the day. Anyway, I realized doing the circuit that I kind of missed it. Plus, my first workout is usually one of the best because I am still so motivated. My arms are burning right now. And when I took a shower afterwards, my legs where a little shaky when I would try to balance on just one.
I forgot to mention that the days I am doing the circuit, I am also going to be doing another video called “Perfect Abs”. This is not Tony Horton (btw-I always want to write Tim Horton, yum!), and honestly, I can’t remember the girl’s name, but it has six different abs routines, three beginner and three advanced, all around 10 minutes. So, the three days a week for circuit, I do one of the beginner routines after it rotating them. I had done this video before and saw dramatic results. Now a warning, this lady is the typical nice workout person, but she is a liar. She loves to tell you that you only have four more and then makes you do eight. But, if you get through and manage not to throw a shoe through the television, the results are amazing. The last time I did this one, it was only for about two or three weeks, and I already started to see the six-pack form. And my stomach is my BIGGEST problem area (see measurements above!).
I am finished for today. Tomorrow is the dreaded cardio.
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