TurboFire: Can Chalene push you as hard as Shaun T?

The only program that I had done of Chalene Johnson's prior to TurboFire was PiYo.  I'd done workouts with Tony's (P90x and P90x3) and I loved working out with Shaun (Insanity, Insanity Max 30, Focus 25).  I had even done Autumn's 21 Day Fix and Fix Extreme.  My favorite has always been Shaun because he just PUSHES you beyond your limits.  Although PiYo challenged me in different ways and increased my flexibility and strength, Chalene's friendly, "don't worry if you can't do this yet" attitude and "you can always go into child's pose if you need to" comments didn't make ME push MYSELF as much as I probably should have.

Because of this, I was hesitant to try TurboFire.  I need someone like Shaun telling me that I can do it and that he's going to push me to my limits.

Well....TurboFire was a side of Chalene I hadn't seen before!

Fire Starter

This 50 minute workout is explained as a beginner workout to help you to learn the moves.  This does NOT mean that it is easy!  This is 50 minutes of non-stop jumping, punching and kicking.  The best part is that Chalene makes it fun, so those 50 minutes fly by!  To get used to some of the moves, you get to do this again throughout week 1.

Fire 40

On Day 2 of the program, you jump into Fire 40.  This is where the moves are amped up and you do NOT stop for 40 minutes!  Chalene tells you that "you're not tired" and, personally, I wanted to throw something at her.  Does she push you through this workout?  YES!  Is it still fun?  YES!  In fact, after this workout, I am so charged up that I feel like I can't sit still for the rest of the day.  It is a good thing this one is fun, because this is another that is repeated a few times.

Abs 10

Ten minutes is ENOUGH!  Those abs are screaming by the end of this floor workout with Chalene.

Low HIIT 20

These HIIT workouts are short, but effective.  Chalene shows you a short routine and, when the siren goes off, you give it your all until it is done.  After a short rest, you do it again.  This gets your heart rate soaring...and the best part is....you are done before you know it!

The Rest of the HIIT and Fire Workouts

These routines are similar, but have enough differences that it keeps you going.  Although I had a hard time during the first couple weeks with coordination and learning the routines, they really do get easier.  Although you are not on the floor doing crunches, these workouts do actually work your core while burning calories. 

Overall Opinion

So, does Chalene push you as hard as Shaun?  Yes....but the style of this program is much different.  It is a fun 90 days that increases your cardio performance and burns calories.  Although I was happy to move on at the end of the 90 days, it also went by quite quickly.  If you are a fan of Zumba, kickboxing, or any kind of aerobics classes, this program is definitely for you.

Where can you find TurboFire?  Click here.  There is also a TurboFire Challenge Pack here.

Would you spend almost 2 years on a scam?

I have had quite a few people tell me, "Shakeology is a scam," or "I know you drink those shakes, but I'm not into weight loss shakes," or "sorry, but I like to eat REAL food."

That is fine if you aren't into drinking shakes and you'd rather chew everything you eat.  I just figured I should share why it is I drink Shakeology, because my reasons have changed in the past year and a half....Yes, I've been drinking my shakes EVERY day since March of 2014.

When I first purchased Shakeology, it was a shot in the dark because I was hoping it would help with weight loss.  I heard that it helped you feel full and helped curb junk food cravings and THAT was what I wanted.   And it worked.  Adding it to my fitness routine helped me lose 20 pounds.

But why do I keep drinking Shakeology?

Drinking Shakeology makes me feel better.  I know I am getting something healthy each day.  I know that it IS actually made from real foods that help me (and, yes, I do eat food that requires chewing for breakfast, dinner and at least 2 snacks per day).  And I no longer take a multi-vitamin because I know I am getting what I need in my shake.

My cholesterol has gone down from 223 to 166.  I don't want to be on cholesterol medication like my mom and my husband.  Since I started drinking my shakes, my cholesterol has gone down and it doesn't look like I will have to be in that boat.

I'm no longer shedding like the dog!  My husband made a comment the other day about how he used to find my hair everywhere, but hasn't in a long time.  I used to have to clear out the drain in the shower daily.  I seriously thought that I would be bald before the age of 45.  I'm sure it was some kind of vitamin or mineral deficiency, but my multivitamin didn't help and I wasn't able to pin point it....but it isn't happening like it was anymore since my shakes.

It tastes great!  And I have plenty of recipes to keep it different when I want a change.

It's an EASY lunch.  I can bring it to meetings, in the car, to football games, recess duty....

So, if "this Shakeology thing" was a scam, would I be drinking it every day for almost two years?  I would hope not.

If it isn't for you, that is okay, but that doesn't mean it is a scam or "just another weight loss shake."  If you are able to get all of the vitamins and minerals and probiotics and nutrients that you need every day without drinking Shakeology, then that is GREAT!  But I can't.  So, that is why I drink it.  Everyday.

**Update***  August 2017....and, yes....I still drink my shake EVERY day.  Yup.  It's been almost 3 1/2 years.

Fitness, Nutrition & Holidays

For the past year and I half, I have been working out 5-6 days/week and eating healthier EVERY DAY.  Okay....so, some days aren't as healthy as others, but I said healthiER.  That means that I am making better choices than I did 2, 3, 4 years ago.

What does this mean throughout the holiday season?  Does it mean that I don't get to partake in the Italian cookies and the apple pie?  Ummm....NO.  It just means that maybe I won't overindulge like I have done in the past....and if I do?  So what!  It is one day and life moves on!

How do we get through the holidays without gaining an extra 10 pounds and throwing all of the hard work that we do away?

1)  Keep up with your workouts!  If you don't have a regular fitness routine, let's talk!

2)  Be consistent with your nutrition.  We all have days that go against the norm, but just make sure that those overindulgent days really are just that....against the norm.  I make sure that I have my Shake EVERY day.  No. Matter. What.  At least, then, I know that I had ONE healthy meal per day EVERY day.

3)  Drink lots of water.  Not only does it help fill the gaps of eating when you aren't really hungry, but it is important to stay hydrated.  This is my BIGGEST weakness...but I'm working on it!

I know that I've talked to a lot of people lately who have told me that they would really love to improve their fitness and nutrition, but they are just too busy and it is just too hard during the holiday season.

I get it.

The thing is....we're ALWAYS busy!  If it isn't the holidays, it's kids' activities or the busy season at work, or something is going on with the family, or....  you know the list.  It isn't about waiting for when we are "less busy," it's about making you a priority.  If you can just find 25 minutes per day to fit in fitness, that is 25 minutes more than you were doing last week!  I've got plans to make, papers to grade, report cards to write, a husband, two teenage boys a guinea pig and a dog....but I also make my workout a priority each day.

Would it be hard to start a fitness and nutrition routine during the holidays?  OF COURSE!  But guess what?  It's hard no matter when you start.  The key is to have support during those times when you want to quit.  That is the purpose of my groups.  We are all in it together.

Okay, my point here is that the holidays don't need to be a time when you are afraid of food.  If you can create a healthy lifestyle, you really can enjoy the holidays guilt free.

P90X - Final Review

My biggest worry in trying to complete P90X has been the longer workouts and lack of time in my day (not to mention my short attention span).  I'm so glad that I've been making the time to complete this!  The biggest challenges?

• School started before the program ended - and I was NOT getting up at 4 am to fit the entire workout in, so, yes, I cheated a bit in these last few weeks.  I fast forwarded through the warm-up and made my breakfast through the cool down.  I also did not have time for Ab Ripper X once school began.
• Nutrition - You can't out workout a bad diet...and between the fair food, junk food offered at school, and going out to eat quite a bit recently, I was definitely working AGAINST the program.

Blocks

This program is broken up into 3 30 day blocks.  There is a recovery week at the end of each block so that you are not pushing for the entire 90 days.

The Workouts

Chest, Shoulders & Tris:

I am not a huge fan of push-ups because they are the hardest for me....and this workout has a LOT of push-ups!  But I LOVE this workout!  The variety keeps you going.  Your arms will be SHAKING by the end of this workout!

Ab Ripper X:

Yes, we still get to tack on Ab Ripper X three days per week!  I'm one that get's a little tired of seeing the same routine over and over every week....BUT, it s a great core workout and it is only 15 minutes.

Plyometrics:

Although I feel better doing this workout in block 2 & 3, it is still quite a challenge!  These jump moves will have your quads screaming, your heart rate soaring and sweat dripping!  If you have any knee issues at all, you may need to take this one a little more slowly, but it is a great calorie burner.

Back & Biceps:

Tony calls these the glamour muscles.  It is all pull-ups (or using bands with a door anchor like I do) and weight work.  The worksheets are great to keep track of what weights you need for each exercise and whether or not you need to move up or down the following week.

Yoga X:

My attention span just can't get through 90 minutes of yoga...so, yes, I ended up substituting this one with X3 Yoga.  

Legs & Back:

This is still such a great workout.  You'll be rotating through pull-ups (or using the door bands like me) and leg exercises for the entire workout.  I STILL am sore the day after this workout!

Kenpo X:

I LOVE this workout, even if my husband does call me Scrappy-Do while I'm doing it!  I honestly don't FEEL like I am working that hard while kicking, punching and blocking, but I am SWEATING through this workout!  It is so much fun and over before you know it!

Shoulders and Arms:

Great workout that targets shoulders, biceps, and triceps.  You'll be using weights and a chair until your arms feel so heavy, you have a hard time writing down the weights you are using!!

X Stretch:

This was, again, the optional Sunday routine until Thursday of the 4th week.  It is a nice stretch, but I also enjoy not pressing play just one day per week.

Nutrition: 

The nutrition guide suggests is helpful in suggesting specific macros for percentages of carbs, protein and fats each day.  As I've already stated, my nutrition was not necessarily on par.  My typical day consisted of a healthy breakfast, my apple with pb and raisins for a morning snack, my shake for lunch, another afternoon snack of either fruit, vegetables, almonds, or a Kind Bar....but then I may have gone overboard with dinners and definitely had my share of ice cream, Oreos or whatever else for dessert.

Results:

I did not lose any weight...in fact, I gained a few pounds, however, I am stronger than I was three months ago.  I actually HAVE TRICEPS!  Who knew I could actually have muscle there instead of wings?!

Overall, P90X is a great program that would definitely shed the pounds IF you also followed the nutrition guide, and definitely builds muscle and strength.  The downfall - it does take up a good chunk of time each day, so, although I am happy that I completed the program, I much prefer the 30 min. per day workouts of other programs.

Beachbody or Planet Fitness....a working mom's point of view.

In the past, I have had no trouble at all signing up for the $10/month membership at Planet Fitness.  Hello?  It's only $10/month!  I had been struggling, however, to sign up for Beachbody's On-line Club Membership.  I didn't want to be charged $40/quarter for on-line access.  It was time for me to sit and weigh this out!

Planet Fitness:

• It's only $10/month! (after a $29.99 start up fee...and you make a 12 month commitment, so canceling any time is not really an option)
• You get access to free weights, weight machines, treadmills, bikes, and ellipticals.
• You can set up appointments with PF trainers to help you with your fitness routine.
• The serve pizza once/month (Ummmm....really???  Why would I want to have the smell of pizza wafting over to me while I'm working out?)
• They serve bagels once/month (well, I guess it is better than the pizza?)
• You can go as often or as little as you like.

Beachbody's Club Membership:

• The first 30 days is free.
• After the first 30 days are up, you are billed $38.87 per quarter (which is like paying $12.96/month) and you can cancel any time without penalties (even before the free period is up).
• You get access to 25 + Beachbody programs from any device with internet capability
• They give you a Challenge Du Jour each day that you can do if you want to add to your workouts.
• If you purchase any other Beachbody programs, they automatically pop up in your On-Demand account, so they are also available to you on-line.
• You get access to all of the step by step program guides, workout calendars, and nutrition plans for each of the available programs.
• You can set up personalized meal plans.
• You get 10% off any Beachbody purchases.
• You don't have to GO anywhere to workout.
• You get a free coach to help with questions, concerns, and motivation.
• I know Planet Fitness is a "Judgement Free Zone," however, my living room is TRULY judgment free!  There is no lunk alarm if I drop a weight or grunt loudly.  I can swear at Tony and Shaun if I see fit and the kids aren't around and NOBODY will see me if I have to drop down to a lower weight or can only do a few push-ups on my knees!

My thoughts:

After actually listing things out and looking at it objectively, it makes much more sense for ME to have a Beachbody Club membership.  If I have to drive somewhere to get my workout in, there is a much higher chance that it won't happen.  I have to fit things in around my kid's schedules and my work schedule.  Adding drive time to the gym (even if it is only 5 minutes from my house) DOES make a difference....  and cost?  If you add in the sign up fee, Planet Fitness only averages 46 cents/month less ($10/month x 12 + $29.99 = $149.99/12 = $12.50)....and I have to make a one year commitment.  I can cancel my Club Membership whenever I want!  So I don't have to have that charge popping up every month on my credit card, knowing I haven't been there in AGES!

Support:

The other addition to the Club Membership that Planet Fitness is lacking in would be support.  Beachbody offers a free coach to help motivate you and answer questions, so if you need someone to push you and check in on you to make sure you actually get your workout in, this is the route to go.

Are YOU interested in a Team Beachbody Club membership?  Click here if you want to check it out.

If you want to talk about other options with Beachbody programs, sign up for a free fitness consultation email me at coachmomnteach@gmail.com

Hydrate!

I'm not a Gatorade or Powerade person.  I tend to just stick to plain old water while I'm working out, however, I also know that there are added benefits, during a hard workout, to drinking something that actually replenishes what your body needs.

This week I tried Beachbody's Hydrate, from their new performance line.  I have to admit, I didn't feel the "drain" that I usually feel during a tough workout.

Even mild dehydration can cause a dramatic reduction in power performance. Typical sports drinks have too much sugar and artificial ingredients that can dehydrate you. And water alone doesn’t effectively hydrate during exercise or replace what you lose through sweat.

Want to know what is IN Hydrate and how it works?




Interested in Hydrate?  Click here.  Want to know more about the entire Performance line? Click here.

Recovering from a tough workout

Typically, when I start a new program, I am SORE.  I also tend to have that "I can't get out of bed" feeling after pushing pretty hard on a workout the day before.

When I tried Beachbody's Energize pre-workout drink, I pushed HARD! And I was afraid that I was going to really feel it later...making the next day's workout even harder.

I decided to try Recover - the new post workout formula and found that, although I felt as though I needed to stretch, I wasn't feeling SORE.  It was more of a tight feeling.  Now...I SHOULD have also taken Recharge that night, but I wanted to see how I would feel the next day without it.  Yeah....I definitely pushed hard during that chest & back workout, because I woke up hurting.  Testing that one out will be next.

Recover takes advantage of the critical post-workout window to help combat exercise-induced muscle soreness, speed muscle recovery, support muscle growth, and improve strength recovery.  Taking it for only one day was nice, but I think it would be much more effective to have it for a stretch of time.

Learn more about Recover:




You can find Recover here.  Or you can check out the entire Performance Line here.

More Energy!

Today I tried Beachbody's Energize performance supplement.

My workout today was P90X Chest & Back and Ab Ripper X.  This workout is jam packed with push ups and pull ups - my two hardest exercises.  I can't actually do pull-ups, so I use a band and a door anchor for these exercises.

The last time I did this workout, I did a total of 112 push-ups, 78 pull-ups with the bands, the exercises that used weights, and the ab work within the hour long workout.

I took Energize about 15 minutes before my workout and felt like I had a push.  I got in 121 push-ups and 95 pull-ups (with bands), plus increased my reps with my weights.  That may not seem like a huge increase, but I have a feeling I'm going to FEEL it later!  I would really like to try this with a more cardio based workout to see how much more I can get out of that!

What IS Energize?

ENERGIZE is formulated with key ingredients to help:

• Boost energy and endurance 

• Improve exercise performance 

• Sharpen focus and reaction time 

• Increase muscle power output 

• Delay exercise-induced muscle fatigue

What are these key ingredients?

Beta-alanine:  This is an amino acid that helps buffer lactic acid buildup to improve performance and delay exercise induced muscle fatigue.

Low-dose caffeine (from green tea):  This enhances performance, improves reaction time and focus, and reduces exercise-induced fatigue.  It can give both a mental and physical boost

Quercetin: This is a plant-based nutrient and powerful performance enhancer, shown to improve endurance and delay exercise-induced muscle fatigue.

Want some more information about Energize?

Where can you find Energize?  Click here.   If you want to check out the entire Performance line, click here.

P90X - Month One

I am definitely a fan of Shaun T and the more cardio based workouts, however, I really enjoyed P90X3 with Tony Horton.  One of the things that I liked best was the fact that they were 30 minute workouts.  I did, however, want to see if I could actually make it through the original P90X.

My initial fears - Will I fit in hour long workouts...and sometimes more?  Well, that is why I decided to wait until school was out to begin the program.  Still....would my short attention span get the best of me and want to hit stop on these videos after 30 or 40 minutes?  I enjoy working out, but I also enjoy SHORT, effective workouts.

So, here is how it has been going...

P90X is divided into three blocks.  Each block is 4 weeks long.  There is the Classic Program schedule, the Lean Program schedule and the Doubles Program Schedule.  I was following the Classic schedule.

Block 1

Chest & Back:

This routine swaps back and forth between a variety of push-ups, pull-ups/chin-ups and using weights.  I, personally, cannot do a pull-up, so I use a 50 lb. band with a door anchor...which does plenty for me.  Day one of this routine, I was doing 10 reps of most of the exercises....but declined push-ups and the last move....HOLY SMOKES!  I was lucky to do 4!  It DID get better as weeks progressed.  The great thing about this routine is that it is as hard or as easy as you make it!  And if you push yourself, you WILL feel it!

Ab Ripper X:

Tony has got you on the floor working your abs with no rest!  This is not a super long workout, but you'll be glad when it is over!  It is tacked on to the end of your workout for 3 days of the week, so you are already tired going into it.  I WILL say, however, that I HAVE gotten to the point where I can agree with Tony....I hate this workout, but I love it.

Plyometrics:

You can do anything for 30 seconds, right?  You'll go through a series of jumping moves, repeat them, then get a short water break.  Pam is in this video to help modify...but those modifications just help take a little pressure off the knees.  They do NOT make the exercise easy.  This routine will make you sweat.

Shoulders & Arms:

Great workout where you go at your pace with the weights that you need.  I did find that I had to hit pause once in a while because I'm in the 12-15 rep range....and fitting 15 reps into the given time wasn't always easy.  Otherwise, you push as hard as you can and get it done!

Yoga X:

I'll be honest....I'm not a huge yoga fan....and an hour and a half of yoga....UGH!  Yes, this is a good stretch.  Yes, it has good core work.  Yes, it is good for you....but, YES, it is a LONG stretch of yoga.  I actually decided in week 3 to replace this one with P90X3 Yoga, just so I can get it done in 30 minutes.  Sorry, Tony.

Legs & Back:

WOW!  This is a great workout.  You'll be rotating through pull-ups (or using the door bands like me) and leg exercises for the entire workout.  Many of the leg exercises don't even use weights...and I was thinking, "hmmmm...maybe I should add weights to this one..." or "maybe I should increase my weights on that one..."  Until I woke up the next morning.  WOW!  My calves, glutes, hamstrings...everything was screaming!  It does get better as the weeks move on, but it is quite the workout!

Kenpo X:

Thank God for the stretching at the start of this video after doing Legs & Back the day before!  It is a nice stretch to get you warmed-up.  Then Tony has you punching, blocking and kicking your way through a workout that seems pretty laid back and not too fast paced....yet really gets you sweating.

X Stretch:

This was the optional Sunday routine until Thursday of the 4th week.  Personally, I enjoy having one day/week where I do not hit play, so I did not put this in until week four.  It is a nice stretch that really was needed.

Nutrition for Block 1: 

The nutrition guide suggests mapping out your day so that you are eating 50% protein, 30% carb, and 20% fats throughout month one.  This was not an easy task!  My first week in, I think I was successful at this 2 out of the 7 days.  One problem is eating proteins that don't also contain carbs.   The other...it's summer and we have been on the go....so.....I was not totally successful at this.  I did make sure that 80% of my food intake was on par.  The other 20% is where I gave myself some leeway.

Results after Block 1:

No major visible changes, but I feel a lot of differences.  I've lost a half inch around my hips and my upper body is feeling stronger.  Can't wait to start Block 2 tomorrow!

Time????

Why is it that, no matter what we have, or don't have, going on, we NEVER have "extra" time?

We all get 24 hours in a day....every day.

When I was commuting into the city for work, just out of college, no big responsibilities, I did not feel like I had ANY extra time.

Once I had my first son, I definitely did not have extra time....then I had my second son....and went back to school for my Master's in Education with a 6 month old and a 3 year old....and did NOT have extra time.

Then, I was finishing my Master's after moving to a new house...commuting an hour and a half to my first teaching job each day and that same distance to my classes, with two children both under the age of 5 and their father gone at the Police Academy from Monday - Friday....Ummmm.... extra time?  HA!

After finishing school and finding a teaching position closer to my new home one would think that I would have all of this "free" time on my hands.....nope.  And soon enough, the boys' activities would take even more of that time.

Now, the kids are getting older, so you would THINK that I've got that "extra" time.....so, where is it??  Packed with school work, house work, soccer games, cross country meets....

My point?  We NEVER have "extra" time.  The key is in prioritizing.  If something is important enough to you, you need to find a time for it.  My kids, my husband, my job....they all take up parts of my day, but I also have to allow time for just ME.  Sounds selfish?  It really isn't.  If I can make just a little time for me, I can be happier and give my all when I have time for everyone else.  Are you making yourself a priority?

Please, Do Not Buy from Me.

What????

Yes.  Please do not buy from me.

First off, I am not a sales person.  I am not here to offer you a "deal" or ask you to "act now."

Secondly, I do not want you to buy something that you think looks pretty cool, but then sits on a shelf for months and months.

When I invite people to my groups, I am not looking for someone to buy a product.  I'm looking for someone who wants to start making changes to their lifestyle.  I'm looking for someone who is willing to invest time in improving themselves.  Sometimes people already have the tools that they need to start doing this and just need the support.  Other times, we have to find them the right tools to use in order to give the right support.  Either way, that is what these groups are for....SUPPORT.

You can't buy support.  This is just what you get if you want to start making a change and join one of my groups.  Are there products that are used in these groups?  Yes.  Maybe you already have one at home because it looked promising, you bought it, and it ended up on a shelf.  Maybe you need help figuring out what would work for you.  Whatever the situation may be, I can help.

So, don't just buy from me.  Start getting help with making you a priority and getting the support you need to make it happen.

If you'd like to take the next step in seeing if one of my groups is right for you, email me at coachmomnteach@gmail.com

Thank you for your message, but I'm not interested.

"Thank you for your message, but I'm not interested."

This is how I felt when I was first contacted by a Beachbody Coach after purchasing Insanity.  In fact, I wasn't even nice enough to respond.  I just freaked out that someone was asking me about my fitness goals and logged out of the Team Beachbody website.

Why?

Well, hello?!?!?!  I didn't want to have to tell someone how much weight I wanted to lose and talk about nutrition and have this peppy, fitness freak know that I am not giving up ice cream.  I also didn't want to have to answer to someone when coming home from work and needing to get dinner ready, so I can't fit in my workout, and then can't work out right after eating and then it's bed time....  I didn't want some size 2 crazy workout woman telling me that I should just get up earlier to fit my workouts in.  I LOVE my sleep and NEED my sleep and I just didn't want to have to answer to someone else.

So....I logged out of the Team Beachbody website and decided not to go back in there for fear of being contacted by that person.

I also deleted the emails because, oh my God, didn't she take the hint that I just didn't want to talk to her?

I then started Insanity and made it through week one! Yes!!!

Then I missed a couple workouts in week two because the kids had karate and soccer games and homework.  And I had to get my papers graded....

Then I missed a few more....

It got to the point where I didn't even really make it through month one of the program.

Fast forward to my attempt at Focus T25....This time, I ordered through Amazon (good thinking, right?  No creepy stalkers to ask about your weight loss goals, right?).

I also thought, okay...I DON'T have time throughout the day, so I HAVE to try to get up earlier to do a workout (okay, good plan).

Then I thought....MAYBE I could log back into that Beachbody site and see who else is doing this program......

I got hooked into a group all talking about this same workout....they were having the same struggles that I was...and they were all trying to push through....and I started feeling like I HAD to get up in the morning and press play, or else I'd have to admit to these other people that I didn't do my workout.  And there was this one person that helped keep the group going and kept us motivated and answered  our questions....  And she wasn't creepy...  and she wasn't trying to sell us anything....  Oh...and she was a coach.

Now, fast forward again to today.  I'm not a crazy fitness lady (although some may disagree with that statement).  I'm not a size 2!  I do still eat my ice cream.  But I've been working out 5-6 times/week since Feb. 2014 and have made huge gains with my own health and fitness.  Oh...and I'M a Beachbody Coach!  Why?  Because I want to be able to help people like ME who just want to try to be healthier and get in better fitness and nutrition while working around everyday LIFE....in order to better enjoy life!

If you'd like to try to change your health and fitness and want to try joining a group of others that want to do the same, email me at coachmomnteach@gmail.com

If you want to learn more about the Coaching opportunity, click on the "Join My Team" tab for more information.

Insanity Max 30 #IMaxedOut!

Okay....people have been asking about my experiences with the programs I've completed, so here is my experience with Insanity Max 30.

General Description

Every day is a brand-new challenge in INSANITY MAX:30. With killer cardio, challenging Tabata-style strength workouts, plus 150 new moves designed to shatter your limits. Shaun pushes you to work harder, go longer, and MAX OUT later. It’s not about making it through all 30 minutes without a break. It’s about pushing yourself more each day to get the body you’ve always wanted in 60 days.

And even though INSANITY MAX:30 is a challenging program, the great thing is you can follow the modifier—whatever your fitness level—to MAX OUT and still get MAX results! 

The Workouts

Month 1:

Cardio Challenge-  Shaun gives you a series of exercises that you repeat before moving on to the next series.  It is intense cardio with moves like squat kicks, medicine ball twists, plank jacks, and suicide burpees.  This IS 30 minutes of cardio.

Tabata Power-  After the warm up, throughout this strength workout you get 2 minutes of work and 10 seconds of rest.  This sounds easy....but it isn't.  Mentally, it helps to know that you have that rest period coming up, but it is still a fight during some of these moves.  This is where we see burpee lunges and an entire round of various push-ups.  You start out with moving piyo push-ups (pushing yourself up off the floor) and move to push-up pop ups and push-up rows!  This section got me every time!  You then move to more cardio work, then core work, then are working your triceps.  This workout BURNS!  And....you get to do it twice a week for a couple weeks!

Sweat Intervals- After the warm-up, you work through 5 minute intervals with a short water break between.  You'll be on your feet, on the floor, and back up again throughout the entire workout...and sweat?  Ummm...yes.

Tabata Strength - This workout takes the place of Tabata Power in weeks 3 & 4.

Friday Fight:  Round 1 -  This is a fight between your mind and your body!  You need to convince your mind that you can get through this workout as well as push your body to keep going.  Breaks?  There are none.  This IS the most challenging workout of the week.  You'll recognize a lot of the moves from earlier in the week, but there is no rest.  You'll switch kick punch, medicine ball twist, hit the floor, jump 10 & 2s, and so much more!

Month 2:

Max Out Cardio - After the warm up, you do have an active stretch.  You're going to run through squat kicks, pike up spider lunges, and more before you get a water break at the ten minute mark.  Then you push through plank jacks, jabs with high knees, and THANK GOD, another water break at the fifteen minute mark.  The insanity continues on the floor, on your feet....It IS a great cardio workout!

Max Out Power-  These moves involve 45 seconds of work with a 15 second break...and boy does that 15 seconds go QUICKLY!  Many of the moves here are plyo moves, so be very careful of your knees and follow the modifier if you need to!  The first round burns your legs, while second has you on the floor doing plyo push-up jacks, push-up pops, and other variations of those dreaded push ups!  Round three still has you on the floor, but you are working your core, while round four gets you back up and jumping around again....yes....with burpees.  This is a challenging workout  that will push you to your limits.

Max Out Sweat - We are working through intervals again, but instead of five minute intervals with a water break between, they are now SIX minute intervals.  One minute may not seem like much longer, but it IS!  This is a great cardio workout that amps up what you started in month one.

Max Out Strength - Again we are working for 45 seconds with a 15 second break.  I found myself praying for that "beep" to tell me that I could stop!  There are split plyo lunges (I needed the modifier so that I wasn't killing my knees), squat thrusts, push up jacks, plank walks, and a whole round that will BURN your triceps!  This workout is HARD!  If push-ups are a challenge for you, you may be going to your knees with the modifier through a lot of this workout.

Friday Fight:  Round 2 - This workout follows suit with round one.  After the warm-up, you jump right into your first round of three and push the entire time.  Moves are a combination of things that are seen throughout the week and you will be exhausted by the end.

Results:

Month 1:

The first month was huge in increasing upper body strength and building endurance.  I'm currently at a point in my fitness journey where I am just maintaining my weight, but I definitely had to increase my calories in order to do so.

Month 2:

Month one gets you prepared to really burn calories and build strength in the second month.

Overall:

This program is, by far, one of my favorites!  I love the fact that you can compete with yourself throughout the program in order to beat your previous Max Out times.  It gives you great cardio workouts, while still incorporating strength training...without weights.  The split screen modifier option allows you to always see what the modifier is doing, so if you can't do all of the jumps or need to tone it down, you don't have to wait for the camera to move to the modifier.

Looking for more information on Insanity Max 30?  You can find information on the Max 30 Challenge Pack here or the base program here.

21 Day Fix Extreme: Final Results

Final Results

Throughout this program I did NOT follow the nutrition plan provided...in fact, I was WAY off on my nutrition.  This past week alone, I ate 2 pints of ice-cream!  This is proof that you can't out-workout a bad diet.  That said, here are my results:

weight - 127 lbs.  (no change...up 4 tenths of a pound)

waist   - 28" ( no change)

hips     - 34 1/2" ( down 1/2")

thighs  - 22" (no change...but more toned)

arms   - 12" (no change...but more toned)

The Container System

I did not follow the container system throughout this program.  I DID do it during the regular Fix and it IS extremely easy to follow.  This program's nutrition plan is not much different.  It does not allow a couple things that the regular program did (like wine), but it is still do-able.

The Workouts

For more detailed descriptions about each workout, scroll down to my end of week one review.

Plyo Fix Extreme

This workout kicks my butt.  It does not seem to get much easier as the weeks go on.  I did jump more often than I did in week one, but it BURNS your legs.  I still follow the modifier during the burn out round and pray for the end of that minute!  I could do another round of this program and STILL think this workout would be challenging.

Upper Fix Extreme

Wow!  I'm still using my 8s as my heavies and my 4s as my lights.  There are some moves that I probably could increase my weights with, but others that I'm still struggling with.  My triceps are still screaming during this workout and those bands really make you shake!  My arms are jello by the end of these 30 minutes.

Pilates Fix Extreme

I'm okay with the "pilates" piece of this video...but the bands are just so awkward.  I'm wondering if maybe the next time I try this workout, maybe I can use some light weights instead.  It won't work for some moves, but may help.  I just feel all wrapped up!

Lower Fix Extreme

This workout isn't quite as intense as the plyo workout, however, it burns just as much.  You do 30 seconds holding your weights and 30 seconds without....  just like the plyo workout, only you aren't necessarily jumping in the second half of each move.

Cardio Fix Extreme

I typically enjoy this workout, but I woke up with a horrible headache today.  You can see my description of this one at the end of week one....but today, I didn't make it five minutes.  I had to admit defeat and press "stop."

Dirty 30 Extreme

I was back in the game today and really enjoyed this workout.  The first few minutes will be torture on your shoulders!  I started with my 4 lb. weights and ended up finishing the moves without weights.  This is such a great all-around workout!  It is not heavy cardio, but it does get your heart pumping.  I will miss this workout.

Yoga Fix Extreme

As I've said in the past...this isn't my favorite routine....  If I'm going to take a rest day, this is where I would chose to not press play.  It really does give you a great stretch, but it just seems long to me.

Overall Opinion

This is definitely an intense program!  If you are used to programs like Insanity or T25, then it may not seem like it has enough cardio, but that does not make it any less intense.  Although I could definitely do another round or two and STILL find this program challenging, knowing I am doing the same workout every Monday, and the same every Tuesday, etc., tends to lose my interest after a month or so.  That said, I WILL come back to this program again.  It definitely builds muscle and burns fat.  Next time, however, I will have to be better with my nutrition.

As far as the difference between the regular Fix and Exteme....Autumn does more than stepping it up a notch!  The breaks between moves almost seem non-existent.  There is a modifier....but she is even more intense than the regular fix.  Basically, it IS an extreme program.  You WILL work!

Want more information about this program?  Click here.

Can you give TOO MUCH positive reinforcement?

Positive reinforcement....

We use it in teaching.  We use it in parenting.  It's a great tool, right?

I absolutely agree that the kid who is listening intently and engaging in class discussions should be encouraged and recognized for their choices.  I love that the kids who kept all of their points during our point system were rewarded with pizza for lunch. I've even given out small prizes to teams of students who have made great choices throughout the month.

But can there be TOO MUCH?

Have you ever played a game in class and, at the end, get the question, "so what do I get?"

Have you ever asked someone to do something for you and got the question, "what do I get?"

In this world of instant gratification, I feel as though we are building a generation of people that need to know "what is in it for me?" and not just down the road, but right NOW.

Why is this a problem?  Success doesn't happen over night and it takes WORK!

If you are looking to be financially successful, it takes WORK.  There is no "get rich quick" deal that will make you millions.  You must work hard at whatever it is you're doing every day to eventually build your income.

If you are looking to have a successful relationship, you need to work at it.  Maybe it seems simple at first, but then it takes communication and compromise and making time for each other in order to continue to last.

If you want to be healthy, there is no magic pill or patch or ANYTHING that is going to make you lose 20 lbs. and be healthy and fit over night.

Why do people tend to give up on fitness routines?  Because they aren't seeing results fast enough.

Why do people tend to put those 100-200 calories per day that they initially cut out of their diet right back in?  Because they aren't seeing results fast enough.

Have you read The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy?  If you haven't, you really should.  Our choices that we make each day are what builds who we become years down the road.  If we keep making the wrong choices day after day....we're not going to end up in a place we want to be.  But if we just make small changes that are positive each day, they WILL compound each day in order to improve our lives.

If you don't think you have time to workout, join my five minute fitness group.  Yes, it is only five minutes per day, but it is 25 minutes per week that you weren't doing before.  It's 100 minutes per month that you weren't doing before.

If you don't think you can change your nutrition because you don't have the will power to cut out junk food, don't cut it out...just cut it back.

Any kind of success is going to take work and if you want results, you need to be able to make the choice to do it every day....even if you aren't seeing result for months or years down the road.

So, what do we need to be teaching our children?  That not all rewards in life are immediate.  That sometimes we work hard and don't see the results right away.  That sometimes the "prize" is the joy of winning or increased knowledge.  Possibilities for success are endless, but you can't give up and you have to put in the work.

21 Day Fix Extreme - End of Week 2

Nutrition

My nutrition went down the toilet this week!  Between going out to eat and indulging on extra snacks and desserts, I was NOT on par.  Next week is a new week.

The Workouts

Plyo Fix Extreme: 

This workout was not any easier the second time around!  It pushes you hard and makes your legs burn!

Upper Fix Extreme:

I felt much more comfortable with this workout this week....but that doesn't mean that it was easy.  I actually enjoyed this upper body workout, however.

Pilates Fix Extreme:

Those bands are awkward!  I felt as though I was tied up the entire workout!  It was better this week since I started with SHOES, but I need more practice with this one!

Lower Fix Extreme:

Such a fun workout!  I think this is one of my favorites!  Definitely still feeling the burn.

Cardio Fix Extreme:

This was a tough one to get through today, but I think it was due to lack of sleep.  I got through it...but it was NOT pretty.

Dirty 30 Extreme:

My shoulders were on FIRE!  I actually put my weights down during the second run through of the first round because my shoulders couldn't handle the 4 lb. weights anymore!  I do still really like this workout.  It really isn't intense cardio, but the weights make it very challenging.

Yoga Fix Extreme:

I'll be honest....I took today off.  Yoga would be very beneficial today, but I am just not someone who can press play 7 days/week.  I need one day off....and if I'm going to take a day off, this is the video that I'm going to skip.  I'll be pressing play again tomorrow, but today, the dvds are staying put away.

End of Week One - 21 Day Fix Extreme

Nutrition

I have not been using the container system and the enclosed nutrition plan with 21 Day Fix Extreme.  I've calculated the amount of calories that I need to maintain my weight and have been using that as a guideline.  I do still have my Oreo's.  I also indulged in my neighbor's taco dip and went out to eat for a maple burger with onion rings this week.  So....yes....my nutrition could have been better.

The Workouts

Plyo Fix Extreme: 

Holy cow!  If you want a workout that BURNS your legs, this is for you.  Workouts in these rounds are only 30 seconds with breaks in between, but those are LONG 30 seconds!  You are going to be jumping while holding weights, so watch your form and slow things down if you start to get sloppy.  I felt like I was going to throw up at the end of this workout!

Upper Fix Extreme:

So, Autumn has you choose heavy weights, light weights and a band for this workout.  These exercises are one minute each.  The first 30 seconds use the heavy weights and the final 30 seconds finish off with the light weights.  What happens when you use the bands?  Oh....you get a 30 second killer hold at the end!  This was an excellent upper body workout!

Pilates Fix Extreme:

Tip number one....if you've ever done pilates before and thought, "hey...I can do this workout barefoot," well...think again.  Autumn incorporates resistance bands into these pilates moves, so, after I wrapped the bands around my feet and started pulling on them, I decided that I would probably get more out of the workout if I wasn't strangling my feet and giving them band burn.  Shoes are a must.  I'm not a huge pilates fan, but this workout was interesting.

Lower Fix Extreme:

Wow!  Autumn begins with the same warm-up as the Plyo and Upper Fix Extreme.  You are told that you will need heavy weights, mediums and a band.  The lower weights are only there if you need to replace your heavy weights due to fatigue.  The rounds are set up with 30 seconds of an exercise using the weights (like squats while holding weights) immediately followed by 30 seconds of the plyo version of the exercise without the weights (set the weights down and do a squat with a jump).  Personally, I have to be careful of the plyo moves on my knees, so I'm not getting very high with the jumping, but it still BURNS!  After each exercise, there is a break, but it is a QUICK break.  The bands are used for the final round with some floor exercises and also with a lateral slow shuffle back and forth.  By the end of this workout, my legs were on fire.

Cardio Fix Extreme:

I think I would have enjoyed this workout more if my legs weren't screaming from yesterday.  These rounds include exercises that vary in duration...from 30 seconds on up.  Some include weights and some are just simple...like jumping jacks or shuffling burpees.  This is a good cardio workout that does get you to sweat.  Modifications are still provided for those that can't do some of the plyo moves or need a lower intensity. 

Dirty 30 Extreme:

I did not get what I should have out of this workout because I was not 100% when doing it....BUT, it is a great workout.  It mixes cardio with strength training and definitely burns your shoulders!  Autumn tells you not to stop when you are tired, but to stop when you are done.  Well, if I had stopped when I was tired, that would have been shortly after the warm up.  It is an intense 30 minutes that works up a sweat!

Yoga Fix Extreme:

If I had not done any yoga in the past, I probably would have spent a good portion of the first half of this video just watching to see what in the world was going on.  As it was, I did have to stop for a moment when Autumn told us, you can either stay here, or follow (whoever) doing this, or you can take it to (whatever the other option was).  It is a nice yoga routine that does give you a good stretch.

As fart as results for the week go, I do not like jumping on the scale and taking measurements every week, so I am not going to take measurements until the end of the 3 weeks.  I do FEEL that I'm working my entire body....so that is a good thing.  I'll post at the end of next week with an update.

21 Day Fix Final Review

Final Results

Reminder:  I chose the calorie bracket that would actually help me to MAINTAIN my weight, instead of to lose weight....and I still added some extra carbs here and there...along with Oreo's and Lindt Chocolates.  This past week, I've been craving chocolate and salt...so I have given in to those cravings a bit.  That said, I am happy with my final results.  If I had actually followed the system in the lower calorie bracket, I definitely would have seen a decrease in weight.

weight - 126.6 lbs.  (no change)

waist   - 28" ( lost 1/2")

hips     - 35" ( up 1 1/2".....however, I would tend to be up this week)

thighs  - 22" (no change)

arms   - 12" (no change)

The Container System

This system is EXTREMELY easy to follow.  Once you measure things out in the first week or so, you tend to have an idea of how many vegetables, carbs, fruits, etc,, you should be having daily.  It gets to a point where you can eye ball your portions and do not need to pull out the containers. 

The Workouts

Total Body Cardio Fix

This workout begins with an easy warm up and moves into "surrenders" which, are not too strenuous if you have fairly strong legs.  The cardio and work with your shoulders does pick up.  My shoulders were quite happy when we moved to the floor for core work and I was surprised that we were finished after that.

This was a nice total body workout that goes by really quickly!  And, unlike many of the other programs, the cooldown is incorporated in the time.  You don't hear Autumn call "time," tell you it is the end, and THEN the cooldown comes on.  She just goes right into it in the last couple minutes of the workout.

Upper Fix

More appropriate name would be Upper BURN.  First, when Autumn said to choose two sets of weights, one light and one heavy, I wasn't sure what "light" or "heavy" really should be.  I picked 4lbs. and 8lbs.  Part way through the first round, I was wondering if I should have chosen 2s and 5s!  When things got tough, though, I could just follow the modifier for a few seconds before getting back into it.  This workout works everything from your core on up.  You do each move for a minute with a 15 second rest in between.  It is amazing how fast the 30 minutes passes!  Even the following weeks, although I had stuck with my 4s and 8s, the challenge was still there.

Lower Fix

Autumn said to have "lights" and "heavies" again, but I wasn't sure what to grab on the first day.  I pulled my 4s and 8s again.  We started out with the heavy weights and, part way through the first round, I put down the 8s and grabbed my 5s.....We never, however, used the light weights. It looks as though they are only there incase your "heavies" become too heavy...

The warm up is the same as the other workouts.  Then it is lunges, squats, calf raises and floor exercises that BURN and get your legs shaking.

Pilates Fix

This workout is a nice break from the weights and cardio, but it is still a workout.  These floor exercises work everywhere from shoulders to core to legs, without the impact.

Cardio Fix

This is one of my favorite workouts.  It begins with the same warm-up, then follows the same format of an exercise for one minute, followed by a 20 second break.  There are four rounds...and a bonus round in this routine.  It definitely makes you sweat and increases your heart rate.  One minute of burpees alone will do that!

Dirty 30

Another favorite of mine. This starts with the same warm-up. Again, the format is the same with each round of 60 second exercises and a break between, but the exercises are different.  We needed "heavy" and "light" weights again.  I tried to stick with my 8s and 4s during the first week and found the 4s challenging during the tricep exercises...but by the third week, I was actually using my 5s for my triceps, 4s for "lights, and 10s for "heavies."  This was a fun workout that targeted the entire body.  It was not a cardio workout, but it did get the heart rate going.  This is another one that goes by very quickly.

Yoga Fix

Not my favorite yoga routine, but it does provide a good stretch at the end of the week and a break from the weights.

Overall Opinion

These workouts include a great variety of both strength exercises and cardio workouts.  There is a modifier in each video incase you need her and Autumn shows you how to do each move before you even begin.  I highly recommend this program to beginners on up.  If you are used to the extreme programs, this may be a little low key for you, but you can still work up a sweat and get results.

Next up - 21 Day Fix Extreme....look for my review of week one next week!

Want more information about this program?  Click here.

Day 21 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

Went out to dinner last night, but had a great dinner of salmon, potato and veggies.  The banana bread that I had and couple of Oreo's are not on the plan, but I didn't go too overboard.

Today, I'm out of apples, but still have lots of healthy snacks in the house....still ate the banana bread, but it's better than more Oreo's, right?

Workout

Yoga Fix:  Final day.  Good end to a program.  I'll post results tomorrow.

Want more information about this program?  Click here.

Next Steps

I'm going to be starting the 21 Day Fix Extreme tomorrow.  My plan is to continue using the nutrition plan as a guideline and compare the two programs, but I am not going to post daily.  I'll publish my first post next Monday, after I've finished Week 1, and continue to post the two Mondays after that.

Day 20 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

Ok....we are throwing nutrition out the window this week!  Well....not completely....I do start my days off pretty well.  How did I end my evening?  My husband thought it would be a great idea to head over for ice cream after dinner.  Of course, I couldn't resist.  It was a rainy, gloomy, day, but Jordan's Ice Cream sounded perfect.

Workout

Dirty 30:  Motivation was not there when I got out of bed, but I did push myself and was happy I did once I got through the warm up.  This is a nice workout that goes by very quickly.  It is definitely more strength based and less cardio based.

Want more information about this program?  Click here.

Day 19 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

Started off the evening off well.  Had Pasta, but at least kept my portions under control.  My husband was eating chips while we played Cribbage, however....so, I did HAVE to have a few.  Of course, he had to remind me "these don't fit into your containers" and so he gave me the smaller ones.  :)

Today is off to a good start.

Workout

Cardio Fix:  I was pretty comfy lying in bed listening to the rain falling, but got through the morning workout.  I'm enjoying this program, but also happy to see it coming to an end.

Want more information about this program?  Click here.

Day 18 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

Actually stayed on track yesterday (minus the 2 double stuff Oreos).  Two hour delay threw me off today, but so far, so good!

Workout

Pilates Fix:  Nice low key workout today.

Nearing the end of the 21 days!


Want more information about this program?  Click here.

Day 17 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

Everything was on par yesterday....but I did still have my Oreos....  Started today well again.  At least 90% of my day is on track.

Workout

Lower Fix:  I really enjoy this workout....but I also enjoyed being finished with this workout.  It definitely makes your legs shake!  I guess, as Autumn says, "shake now so you won't shake later," right?


Want more information about this program?  Click here.

Day 16 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

Dinner was great last night.  Went to BJ's to pick up a couple things after we ate and, you'd think, since I wasn't hungry, it would have been fine.  Well, everything looked so good.  I really wanted to grab the sinfully chocolate cake and the cinnamon rolls!  Instead, we left with what we needed, I got home, and had a couple Oreos and hot chocolate.

As usual, started out today healthy....We'll see what happens tonight.

Workout

Upper Fix:  I did not get to sleep early enough last night.  I woke up with a headache and SO wanted to sleep in.  It would have been so easy NOT to push play, but I forced myself to get started.  I'm glad I did.  Once I got into round 1, I forgot about being tired, my headache went away, and I was actually feeling pretty good.  I really like the 15 minute rounds as opposed to the 2 exercises and repeat rounds.  It feels like you have more of a rest and knowing there are only two rounds to the workout, psychologically, seems shorter.  :)


Want more information about this program?  Click here.

Day 15 of the 21 Day Fix

Statistics:  Week Two

Reminder:  I chose the calorie bracket that would actually help me to MAINTAIN my weight, instead of losing weight....and have eaten quite a bit that does not fall into my container plan throughout this past week.

weight -  126.6 lbs (no change) Ok....I was seriously contemplating whether or not my scale was
                 broken!  If others hadn't stepped on it before me and had a different weight pop up, I
                 would have thought it was.

waist   - 28" (up a 1/2" from last week, but still down 1/2" overall)

hips     - 33.5" (up a 1/2"...back to where I started)

thighs  - 22" (no change)

arms   - 12" (no change)

Nutrition Update

Yes...I did go to get ice cream last night.  I won't call it cheating, because that implies so many things that I do not agree with in a nutrition plan.  It screams "diet" and "deprivation" and neither are part of my vocabulary.  I am not on a diet....I am just trying to eat healthier and trying to follow the portion sizes that are recommended of my activity level and current weight.  If I go over this occasionally, then so be it.  I just need to try not to go overboard too often.

Today, I'm back into the swing of things and planning a nice dinner with fish tonight.

Workout

Total Body Cardio Fix: I really do enjoy this workout.  Just when your shoulders feel as though they will fall off, Autumn switches is up.  It's a good mix of cardio and weights.


Want more information about this program?  Click here.

Day 14 of the 21 Day Fix

Two Thirds of the Way Done!

Nutrition Update

Stuck to my containers last night....although I didn't get quite enough greens.  Still had my Lindt chocolates.

So far, today is also going well.....even on Easter.  :)  However, I think we'll be making a stop at our favorite ice cream place soon.  Not really looking forward to taking measurements tomorrow.  Most of this week has NOT been on par....  I guess we'll see how "off" it has been tomorrow.

Workout

Yoga Fix:  Good "rest day" workout.  Personally, I enjoy Tony's P90X3 Yoga workout more, but that is just my personal preference.

Want more information about this program?  Click here.

Day 13 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

Ended the day yesterday high on carbs.  I had more than my share of yellows.  I also added a couple Thin Mints to my evening.

Started today with a good breakfast, did well with snacks and lunch.  It's always after 4 o'clock that becomes a challenge.  We'll see what happens today.

Workout

Dirty 30:  I really enjoy this workout.  Although it was tough for me to get up on a Saturday morning to work out, it felt good once I got going and was a nice start to the day.  I did need more than just two sets of weights, however.  Most of the time, for the "heavies," I did use my 8s, but I grabbed a 10 for the side bends to work the obliques.  I also did not use them for the tricep exercises....but didn't want to use my 4s, either (which was what I was using for my "lights"), so I used 5s for those.


Want more information about this program?  Click here.

Day 12 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

Completely failed in the nutrition aspect at the end of the day yesterday.  We went out to eat, which didn't have to be a bad choice, but I did say "yes" to the sour cream on the potato...and then agreed to share mozzarella sticks with my husband.  Since I had already felt like I was off track, a couple extra lindt chocolate truffles seemed like a good idea.  Today is a new day.

Started with a good breakfast and packed my lunch and snacks.  I've also been better about drinking more water.  We'll see how the end of the day pans out.

Workout

Cardio Fix:  I absolutely needed this workout today.  Did I say that I needed to start extreme?  Umm....I worked up quite a sweat during Cardio Fix today.  That was a fun workout that definitely felt like I may have burned off a mozzarella stick.  :)



Want more information about this program?  Click here.

Day 11 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

Dinner last night was definitely not container worthy.   My oldest LOVES Hamburger Helper, so that was dinner last night.  So not healthy, but I at least kept my portion under control.

Planning on a less carb heavy dinner tonight, so I changed up my breakfast to include half an English Muffin.  Brought my usual fruit for snacks at school.

Workout

Pilates Fix:  I understand that today was an active recovery day, but I feel like I need to be doing more.  For someone who is getting into a fitness routine, this is a great program.  After doing a few of the extreme programs through Beachbody, this is feeling like I'm giving myself a break.  I was sore last week, obviously working muscles in a different way, but I'm not working as hard as I was in the other programs.

I'm almost at the end of week 2 and will stick through the third week, but I am anxious to try the Extreme Fix.

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Day 10 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

Still using the containers as a guideline.  Still having my Lindt chocolate truffles at night.  Still not feeling a bit guilty.  :)

Workout

Lower Fix:  This time, my lower body wasn't screaming before the workout even began.  That was a good sign.  It was, however, burning throughout the workout.  I guess that is a good sign, too.  I tried to stick with my 8 lb. weights through the first three rounds, but did drop to 5s during the curtsy lunges.


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Day 9 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

Finished yesterday on track (with the added bonus of 2 lindt chocolate truffles...).  Today I've been continuing to follow my meal plan.

I have realized that saving most of my carbs for dinner doesn't always work.  I may change up breakfast a bit tomorrow.  I didn't today because the plan is to have American chop suey for dinner.  THAT will take up my carbs.  Again, if I were following the meal plan to a "T," I wouldn't be eating pasta at all, but I'm making the meal plan work for me.

Workout

Upper Fix:  Although it was torture to get out of bed this morning, once I got going through the warm up, this was a lot of fun.  I used to hate any kind of upper body workout because I was so weak, but that just meant that I needed them more.  I stuck with my 8 lb. weights as my heavies and used my 4s as my lights.



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Day 8 of the 21 Day Fix

Statistics:  Week One

Reminder:  I chose the calorie bracket that would actually help me to MAINTAIN my weight, instead of losing weight....and was less than stellar on sticking to the nutrition plan these past few days.

weight - 126.6 (up .2 lb) not significant

waist   - 27.5 " (down 1")

hips     - 33" (down 1/2")

thighs  - 22" (no change)

arms   - 12 " (no change)

Nutrition Update

I actually was not very hungry yesterday, so I made myself eat what I needed to have for dinner.  I still didn't quite have all of my carbs, veggies or fruit for the day, but I couldn't eat any more.  It isn't like I burned many calories during yoga, anyway.

Today, I'm back on track with my breakfast and snacks.  We got more bananas, grapes, spinach and mushrooms yesterday, so I should be set for the week.  I'm kind of tired of having my eggs with mushrooms and spinach, but if I just have eggs, I won't get enough veggies in throughout my day.

Workout

Week 2 is exactly the same as week 1, so I'm just repeating the workouts from last week.

Total Body Cardio Fix:

I did not have the energy that I did going into last Monday's workout, but it is still a fun workout that goes by quickly.  I started using my 8 lb. weights, but when I got to round 2, dropped down to 5s.


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Day 7 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

Here is a perfect example of life completely throwing the container system off balance.  We went out for dinner with friends last night.  I was prepared for our evening at the Longhorn and was looking forward to my 6 oz. Flo's filet and sweet potato with a garden salad.  I made sure that what I had earlier in the day allowed me to fit this dinner in without an issue....and even ignored the bread placed on the table prior to the salads coming.  What, then, is the problem?  Friends ordered dessert.  Well, if they are ordering......ummmm....YES, the Chocolate Stampede looks wonderful!  My husband and I shared dessert.  It was wonderful.  It was more than I could even eat.  It made my stomach ache and made me feel like I was going to be sick....but, yet, that was wonderful.  What is wrong with THAT picture?

Oh well.  Today is a new day and I have started out on the right foot.  I'll take weight and measurements tomorrow....fully expecting to see a GAIN!

Workout

Yoga Fix -  Autumn walks you through basic yoga poses that are a nice stretch after the week's workout.

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Day 6 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

Last night was not in the eating plan.  We had to "fend for ourselves" for dinner before heading out and we didn't have much that could be made quickly.  I made myself and egg and cheese english muffin...which really would not have been horrible, except that I was still hungry afterwards.  My husband made a frozen pizza.....So, after a couple Lindt chocolate truffles, I did have a couple pieces of pizza.  :(  

Today, however, is a new day and one messed up dinner is not going to ruin everything.  The big issue right now is that i really need to get to the grocery store because I'm running low on the fruits and veggies.  That makes sticking to the plan difficult.  I'm muddling through today, but may need a quick run to the store.

Workout

I got out of bed this morning feeling less than motivated, but after sitting around for a few minutes and waking up a bit, I forced myself to push play.  I'm glad I did.  It was what I needed to get that energy and feel great again.

Dirty 30 -  Autumn starts out with that same warm up of jogging, jumping jacks, windmills and touching your toes.  Again, the format is the same with each round of 60 second exercises and a break between, but the exercises are different.  We needed "heavy" and "light" weights again.  I tried to stick with my 8s and 4s, which worked well until the tricep exercises.  I pushed through the first round with my 8s, but probably should have used my 5s for the second round.  I grabbed the 4s, but they were too light.  This was a fun workout that targeted the entire body.  It was not a cardio workout, but it did get the heart rate going.  The modifier is still there incase you need her.  I'll be looking forward to doing this one again next week.


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Day 5 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

Sticking to the containers in order to maintain my current weight....   and still having a lindt chocolate and a hot chocolate at night.  We will see if I maintain or gain at the end of this....

The biggest dilemma today:  We are out of bananas!  What was I going to bring for an afternoon snack?!?  I am definitely a creature of habit, so this did throw off my morning a bit.  After finally settling on some more raisins, I realized, if THIS is my biggest problem of the day, life is pretty good.

Workout

Cardio Fix -  Autumn begins with the same warm-up that is in the other videos (except for pilates) and follows the same format of one minute with an exercise, 20 second break, one minute with a new exercise, 20 second break and repeat.  This workout does not use weights and is a great cardio workout.  I will say that, one minute of burpees is NOT fun.  I believe I started swearing at Autumn at this point of the video.




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Day 4 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

All is still going well.  Of course, I don't think that American Chop Suey was meant to be on the 21 Day Fix Meal Plan, but I at least followed the portions.....and had another couple Lindt Chocolate Truffles for dessert.  I also made a mug of hot chocolate before bed.  I have to be realistic.  I'm not on a diet.  I'm trying to get portions under control and be realistic. 

Workout

Pilates Fix -  This was a nice break....but still a workout.  It was a good break from the weights and squats, etc.  It works your core while also stretching out those sore muscles.

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Day 3 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

This container system is pretty easy....in fact, I can't eat everything that I should be in a day.  I still had a yellow, blue and green container left.  I guess I made up for that with the cream and sugar in my morning coffee....and the two Lindt chocolate truffles that I had last night.  I just can't give up having something sweet at the end of the day.

Workout

Lower Fix -  Yesterday, any time that I had to bend down in my classroom to pick something up, I had to cringe.  I don't remember working my lower body that hard on Monday, but I felt it yesterday.  This made me a bit nervous going into a lower body workout...and rightfully so....my legs were already so sore.

Again, Autumn said to have "lights" and "heavies" but I wasn't sure what to grab.  I pulled my 4s and 8s again.  We started out with the heavy weights and, part way through the first round, I put down the 8s and grabbed my 5s.....We never, however, used the light weights.  I guess they were there incase we got tired with the heavier ones.

We started with the same warmup we've been doing in the other workouts.  Then it is lunges, squats, calf raises and floor exercises that BURN and get your legs shaking.  It didn't take much to get my legs burning today, but this workout made me sweat.



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Day 2 of the 21 Day Fix

Nutrition Update

How did last night go?  Well, I had saved quite a few containers for dinner thinking that I'd need them....  I couldn't eat that much.  I still had containers that could have been filled.  I DID, however, have a pasta side for my carb...which is not what I should be eating according to the foods listed, but that is what we were having with dinner, so that is what I ate.

I also had a mint during the day.....there is no container for that.  :)

And I let myself have one Lindt chocolate truffle.

Today - Again, I had my big breakfast and my normal snacks throughout the day.  I've been better about drinking water, too.   The trick will, again, be dinner and the temptation of junk food in the evening.  It IS all psychological.  I'm not at all hungry.

Workout

Upper Fix -

More appropriate name would be Upper BURN.  First, when Autumn said to choose two sets of weights, one light and one heavy, I wasn't sure what "light" or "heavy" really should be.  I picked 4lbs. and 8lbs.  Part way through the first round, I was wondering if I should have chosen 2s and 5s!  When things got tough, though, I could just follow the modifier for a few seconds before getting back into it.  This workout works everything from your core on up.  You do each move for a minute with a 15 second rest in between.  It is amazing how fast the 30 minutes passes!

Tomorrow, I'm afraid that I won't be able to lift my arms!

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Day 1 of the 21 Day Fix

Starting Weight and Measurements

weight - 126.4 lbs.

waist   - 28.5"

hips     - 33.5"

thighs  - 22"

arms   - 12"

First Impressions of the Nutrition Plan

Breakfast was great, but I have never eaten that much first thing in the morning, so adding veggies to my eggs really filled me up fast.  My snacks and lunch were no different than my typical day (except less peanut butter on my apple...).  I'll let you know how dinner and the evening went tomorrow.  I'm worried about feeling the need to grab a snack after dinner....

Oh....and I did put cream & plain old sugar in my coffee.  Sorry, but that is a must for me.

First Impressions of the Workout

The thing that really scares me is that this is a 7 day/week workout.  I'm used to having at least Sunday off as a rest day...if not the entire weekend.  That said, it is only 3 weeks, so I guess I'll just have to suck it up and try it!

Today's workout was Total Body Cardio Fix.

I began the warm up thinking, "this is pretty low key" and as we were doing the surrenders felt that I could get through this 30 minutes pretty easily.....then, as we did the ski something or others, my thoughts changed to, "my shoulders are going to fall off.  What is that modifier doing?"  My shoulders were quite happy when we moved to the floor for core work and I was surprised that we were finished after that.

This was a nice total body workout that goes by really quickly!  And, unlike many of the other programs, the cooldown is incorporated in the time.  You don't hear Autumn call "time," tell you it is the end, and THEN the cooldown comes on.  She just goes right into it in the last couple minutes of the workout.

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