Well, I don't think I'm going to be able to do my P90X training today unfortunately. I'm writing this while I eat breakfast or I wouldn't even have time to be on here! I'm the coordinator of a car show that's going on this morning and will be tied-up until about 4:00 pm. Then, I've got to come back, get ready really quickly, and leave for a lake trip. If I wasn't on a time constraint, I'd totally squeeze my workout in for the day, but that's not the case. Sadness.
I'll be on the lake to ski tomorrow, so that will count as my workout. Skiing is very intense, especially if you have stamina built up. It works just about every muscle in your body, which is definitely what I need.
On a good note, though, I've lost a total of 3.6 pounds in less than 2 weeks! Wahoo! :)
I'm going to try to post my inches info tomorrow (pending that I have internet access), so be on the lookout!
lb
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Friday, May 28, 2010
Day 12: Rushed...
Well, today has been a day full of rushing. Rushing to do this, rushing to do that, rushing to go here, there, and everywhere. At first I didn't think I was going to be able to fit in my P90X workout, but I did luckilly. I only got to do a little over 40 minutes of it, but that was really more than I anticipated. It turned out, though, that I could have finished the workout because of a slight change in plans (not my doing... gah), but oh well.
I strayed slightly from the nutrition plan today during lunch, but it was still pretty healthy. I've been wanting some Mexican food for the longest time, so we got some chips and salsa (not the healthy part), and I ordered a grilled chicken caesar salad. I tell you, it was the best food I've had in a while! I wish I could cook like that.
Since I only have a couple of minutes to write this, I'll go ahead and include my heart rate monitor information on here:
5/28/10
Total Time: 41.38
Calories Burned: 237.97
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 162
Average BPM: 120
Not too impressive, but it's better than nothing.
It's going to be difficult the upcoming week because I'll be traveling. It's some much-needed relaxation time, but I'll definitely have to figure out how to incorporate my workouts in the "off" time of our visit. It'll be all good though. :)
lb
I strayed slightly from the nutrition plan today during lunch, but it was still pretty healthy. I've been wanting some Mexican food for the longest time, so we got some chips and salsa (not the healthy part), and I ordered a grilled chicken caesar salad. I tell you, it was the best food I've had in a while! I wish I could cook like that.
Since I only have a couple of minutes to write this, I'll go ahead and include my heart rate monitor information on here:
5/28/10
Total Time: 41.38
Calories Burned: 237.97
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 162
Average BPM: 120
Not too impressive, but it's better than nothing.
It's going to be difficult the upcoming week because I'll be traveling. It's some much-needed relaxation time, but I'll definitely have to figure out how to incorporate my workouts in the "off" time of our visit. It'll be all good though. :)
lb
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Day 11: The stork is not my friend
So, at this point in P90X, I hate yoga. I didn't really mind it last week, but after doing all the workouts in this segment by now, it's definitely at the bottom of my favorites list. Maybe I just didn't concentrate like I should have... or maybe my muscles were more sore than they were last wek... I don't know, but I definitely didn't bring my A-game with me.
Here's an example: last week, I couldn't even get up off the ground for the stork pose. This week, I pushed myself a little harder, and I stayed up for like 1 second. Well, I overcorrected myself when I began to fall, and completely busted it. Luckilly, I didn't "fall on my face", but I'm really glad I moved my elbow quick enough to catch me!
It's been a long and busy day at work, so that probably drained some of my normal energy. Oh well - it happens.
Here's my HRM info for the workout today:
5/27/10
Total Time: 1.26.06
Calories Burned: 371.29
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 240 (second day in a row it's malfunctioned... this thing is crazy)
Average BPM: 105
Not the total calories burned that I expected, but I guess that's better than nothing. I'll get focused more tomorrow and burn calories like no other.
lb
Here's an example: last week, I couldn't even get up off the ground for the stork pose. This week, I pushed myself a little harder, and I stayed up for like 1 second. Well, I overcorrected myself when I began to fall, and completely busted it. Luckilly, I didn't "fall on my face", but I'm really glad I moved my elbow quick enough to catch me!
It's been a long and busy day at work, so that probably drained some of my normal energy. Oh well - it happens.
Here's my HRM info for the workout today:
5/27/10
Total Time: 1.26.06
Calories Burned: 371.29
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 240 (second day in a row it's malfunctioned... this thing is crazy)
Average BPM: 105
Not the total calories burned that I expected, but I guess that's better than nothing. I'll get focused more tomorrow and burn calories like no other.
lb
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Day 10: Shoulders, Bis, Tris
That's the theme of the Shoulders and Arms workout I did tonight. I really enjoy this workout because it goes by so fast. The rotation keeps my interest and really pushes me to work even harder. I used the 15 lb weights 3 or 4 times tonight, which is definitely an improvement from last week. I didn't want to push it too hard, though, because I wanted to be able to finish the workout.
The Ab Ripper X workout is getting easier every time I press play. There are only like 5 exercises that I can't finish, so that's definitely an improvement. I'm feeling stronger every time I do the exercise, which is what I'm looking for. Man, I can't wait to see how it is by day 90.
I stayed on-track with my nutritional guide (for the most part) even though my schedule today was just as crazy as yesterday. I ended up eating my protein bar with my dinner because I was so busy that I didn't really think about my snack today. It worked out just fine, though, so I'm okay with it.
Here's the HRM info for today's workout:
5/26/10
Total Time: 1.18.45
Calories Burned: 447.20
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 238 (there must have been a malfunction... there's now way)
Average BPM: 122
I burned about the same calories as I did last time, so that's good. I just don't want to start decreasing my calories burned just because I know what I'm doing now. That definitely won't help me get to my target body fat percentage or weight!
Tomorrow is Yoga for 1.5 hours. That's intense, but I'm looking forward to it.
lb
The Ab Ripper X workout is getting easier every time I press play. There are only like 5 exercises that I can't finish, so that's definitely an improvement. I'm feeling stronger every time I do the exercise, which is what I'm looking for. Man, I can't wait to see how it is by day 90.
I stayed on-track with my nutritional guide (for the most part) even though my schedule today was just as crazy as yesterday. I ended up eating my protein bar with my dinner because I was so busy that I didn't really think about my snack today. It worked out just fine, though, so I'm okay with it.
Here's the HRM info for today's workout:
5/26/10
Total Time: 1.18.45
Calories Burned: 447.20
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 238 (there must have been a malfunction... there's now way)
Average BPM: 122
I burned about the same calories as I did last time, so that's good. I just don't want to start decreasing my calories burned just because I know what I'm doing now. That definitely won't help me get to my target body fat percentage or weight!
Tomorrow is Yoga for 1.5 hours. That's intense, but I'm looking forward to it.
lb
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Day 9: Plyo is crazy
I tell you, I have the most difficult time with the Plyometrics exercise! It's so difficult keeping up with everyone on the DVD, but eventually, I know I'll be able to do it. I'm not really sure if it was just a sore muscle or if my sciatica was acting up, but I kept having a little bit of a pinch feeling in my lower back/glutes area. I didn't do some of the moves during the DVD just to try to take care of it, so hopefully that will go away sometime soon.
It's been difficult to stay on task with my nutrition guide because of my work schedule. Today I had to go in a little later than normal and work until about 8-ish for another Awards Night. It was fun to be there, but it kind of threw off my routine. I ate later in the morning but ate lunch at the same time, while having dinner at like 4 pm. It was pretty difficult to control my hunger, but I did it. Tomorrow is the last Awards Night event I have to go to, so I'll definitely get back on track after then.
Anyway, here's my info for tonight:
5/25/10
Total Time: 1.02.46
Calories Burned: 509.71
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 170
Average BPM: 146
It's a little bit down from last week, but I'll take it considering I didn't really do all of the moves. I'll just have to work that much harder next week to make up for the deficit.
Later taters,
lb
It's been difficult to stay on task with my nutrition guide because of my work schedule. Today I had to go in a little later than normal and work until about 8-ish for another Awards Night. It was fun to be there, but it kind of threw off my routine. I ate later in the morning but ate lunch at the same time, while having dinner at like 4 pm. It was pretty difficult to control my hunger, but I did it. Tomorrow is the last Awards Night event I have to go to, so I'll definitely get back on track after then.
Anyway, here's my info for tonight:
5/25/10
Total Time: 1.02.46
Calories Burned: 509.71
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 170
Average BPM: 146
It's a little bit down from last week, but I'll take it considering I didn't really do all of the moves. I'll just have to work that much harder next week to make up for the deficit.
Later taters,
lb
Monday, May 24, 2010
Day 8: Back in the routine
After a wonderful day of rest yesterday, it's time to get back in the routine. I've surprised myself at how much I've stayed on the nutritional guide. It really is pretty easy because you get to eat good food; it just takes a while to prepare all of it. I'm really glad that my mom has helped me out by cooking dinner several nights a week because it's made my life much more simple.
The workouts aren't getting any easier, but I didn't expect them to after just one week. I tried to increase my reps on the workout today, and I definitely could feel it. My arms and shoulders were basically shaking after the workout was finished, and my abs were sore, too. Part of my problem, though, was that I hurried to start the workout tonight because the series finale of "24" came on tonight at 8 pm. I absolutely had to be done by that time, but luckilly, I finished with 5 minutes to spare. That was the perfect time allowed to make my recovery drink. :)
Anyway, here's my heart rate monitor info:
5/24/10
Total Time: 1.10.25
Calories Burned: 423.55
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 164
Average BPM: 128
Now, since I've got some data to compare my workouts with, I see that I didn't really push myself as much as I should have. My calories burned today was significantly lower than last week's, which was probably because I didn't let my food fully digest before I started. That definitely screws up everything, so I don't think I'll be doing that again anytime soon.
Tomorrow is Plyometrics, so yippee for that!
Later...
lb
The workouts aren't getting any easier, but I didn't expect them to after just one week. I tried to increase my reps on the workout today, and I definitely could feel it. My arms and shoulders were basically shaking after the workout was finished, and my abs were sore, too. Part of my problem, though, was that I hurried to start the workout tonight because the series finale of "24" came on tonight at 8 pm. I absolutely had to be done by that time, but luckilly, I finished with 5 minutes to spare. That was the perfect time allowed to make my recovery drink. :)
Anyway, here's my heart rate monitor info:
5/24/10
Total Time: 1.10.25
Calories Burned: 423.55
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 164
Average BPM: 128
Now, since I've got some data to compare my workouts with, I see that I didn't really push myself as much as I should have. My calories burned today was significantly lower than last week's, which was probably because I didn't let my food fully digest before I started. That definitely screws up everything, so I don't think I'll be doing that again anytime soon.
Tomorrow is Plyometrics, so yippee for that!
Later...
lb
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Week 1 Review: Wow... Positive results after one week is impressive!
I absolutely cannot believe that I've lost a total of 2.55 inches throughout my body after just one week of P90X! Here are the results so you can see the breakdown:
Weight: - 0.5 lb
Chest: -0.25 in
Waist: -0.75 in
Hips: -0.25 in
Right Thigh: -0.2 in
Left Thigh: -0.75 in (this one was bigger than the other one anyway lol)
Right Arm: -0.25 in
Left Arm: -0.1 in
I mean, these may seem like such a small fraction, but if you multiply that by almost 13 weeks, that's a huge change! The weekly results will probably vary anyway, but still, that's impressive. I originally was kind of disappointed that I'd only lost 0.5 lb, but the inches everywhere else just prove that I'm losing fat and gaining muscle. This program really works.
I'll say I was really glad to have a day off today. My body was sore all over from the intense Kenpo X workout yesterday, so it was great timing. I meant to do the X Stretching DVD today, but I just didn't make time for it. I mean, uploading pictures to Facebook, buying a wakeboard, and hanging out with my family was much more important. :)
Anywho, here's to another productive week and many more to come! :)
lb
Weight: - 0.5 lb
Chest: -0.25 in
Waist: -0.75 in
Hips: -0.25 in
Right Thigh: -0.2 in
Left Thigh: -0.75 in (this one was bigger than the other one anyway lol)
Right Arm: -0.25 in
Left Arm: -0.1 in
I mean, these may seem like such a small fraction, but if you multiply that by almost 13 weeks, that's a huge change! The weekly results will probably vary anyway, but still, that's impressive. I originally was kind of disappointed that I'd only lost 0.5 lb, but the inches everywhere else just prove that I'm losing fat and gaining muscle. This program really works.
I'll say I was really glad to have a day off today. My body was sore all over from the intense Kenpo X workout yesterday, so it was great timing. I meant to do the X Stretching DVD today, but I just didn't make time for it. I mean, uploading pictures to Facebook, buying a wakeboard, and hanging out with my family was much more important. :)
Anywho, here's to another productive week and many more to come! :)
lb
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Day 6: The intensity is catching up
Boy, I'm glad that I've got a "rest" day tomorrow. I'm super tired because of the intense workout this morning (it was a Kenpo X day), along with going to a wakeboarding competition. Being out in the sun for long periods of time tends to drain your energy, so that's probably a large contributing factor.
My calves and glutes are really sore today. I feel like I'm walking like a duck because I'm so sore. Once I gain momentum, it isn't so bad... but the beginning few steps are pretty killer. It's so worth it, though.
Here's my heart rate monitor info for the day:
5/22/10
Total Time: 1.00.18
Calories Burned: 455.94
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 168
Average BPM: 140
That's a lot of calories burned for just one hour! Kenpo is really an awesome workout, but here's a word to the wise: don't think it's a piece of cake because it definitely isn't. I started out the workout with 2 lb wrist weights, and they were off by about the 6th move. I definitely underestimated the workout's level of difficulty, but I know now that I've got to work my way up to that point. It's my favorite workout, though, so I'm sure I won't have too much trouble getting motivated for this one!
Well, it's bedtime, but I'll talk to y'all again soon!
lb
My calves and glutes are really sore today. I feel like I'm walking like a duck because I'm so sore. Once I gain momentum, it isn't so bad... but the beginning few steps are pretty killer. It's so worth it, though.
Here's my heart rate monitor info for the day:
5/22/10
Total Time: 1.00.18
Calories Burned: 455.94
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 168
Average BPM: 140
That's a lot of calories burned for just one hour! Kenpo is really an awesome workout, but here's a word to the wise: don't think it's a piece of cake because it definitely isn't. I started out the workout with 2 lb wrist weights, and they were off by about the 6th move. I definitely underestimated the workout's level of difficulty, but I know now that I've got to work my way up to that point. It's my favorite workout, though, so I'm sure I won't have too much trouble getting motivated for this one!
Well, it's bedtime, but I'll talk to y'all again soon!
lb
Friday, May 21, 2010
Day 5: My legs are gonna be sore!
Today was the first day I got to try out the Legs and Back workout. It was actually a lot of fun, and the time really flew by. I truly am starting to enjoy the workouts instead of thinking of them as being so much of a challenge. I think I'm starting to realize how much of an impact these workouts will have on my physical appearance, and that's definitely some strong motivation right there.
I'm getting better at the Ab Ripper X workout, even after only doing it twice before today. The first time I did it, I could only get through the first few exercises before I had to either take a break or not do as many reps as the rest of the crew did. Today, though, I got through about 80% of the whole workout, so I was pretty pumped about that.
I followed my nutrition guide today... well, at least for the most part. I had my protein shake for breakfast, fish and broccoli for lunch, and sushi (california roll) and seaweed salad for dinner. The sushi and seaweed salad aren't on the guide, but it's veggies and shellfish, and that's on there. I figured it's an even trade. :)
I can really tell a difference since I've been gettig 8+ hours of sleep. I'm way more energized and feel more in control of my body. I'm also more focused, but that could be from the ActiVit metabolism supplements that I started taking on Wednesday. Those supplements have B12 in them, which obviously speeds up your metabolism, but it also helps your mind to stay focused and not drift away to different tangents. Whatever it is, I'm liking how I feel.
Here's my heart rate monitor info for the day:
5/21/10
Total Time: 1.20.30
Calories Burned: 570.58
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 170
Average BPM: 137
I didn't realize how effective this workout truly was until I saw how many calories I burned. Suh-weet!
'Til next time...
lb
I'm getting better at the Ab Ripper X workout, even after only doing it twice before today. The first time I did it, I could only get through the first few exercises before I had to either take a break or not do as many reps as the rest of the crew did. Today, though, I got through about 80% of the whole workout, so I was pretty pumped about that.
I followed my nutrition guide today... well, at least for the most part. I had my protein shake for breakfast, fish and broccoli for lunch, and sushi (california roll) and seaweed salad for dinner. The sushi and seaweed salad aren't on the guide, but it's veggies and shellfish, and that's on there. I figured it's an even trade. :)
I can really tell a difference since I've been gettig 8+ hours of sleep. I'm way more energized and feel more in control of my body. I'm also more focused, but that could be from the ActiVit metabolism supplements that I started taking on Wednesday. Those supplements have B12 in them, which obviously speeds up your metabolism, but it also helps your mind to stay focused and not drift away to different tangents. Whatever it is, I'm liking how I feel.
Here's my heart rate monitor info for the day:
5/21/10
Total Time: 1.20.30
Calories Burned: 570.58
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 170
Average BPM: 137
I didn't realize how effective this workout truly was until I saw how many calories I burned. Suh-weet!
'Til next time...
lb
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Day 4: Who knew yoga was this crazy?
I finished my first interaction with Yoga X tonight. Geez, that was long... and it was difficult! I didn't really think that yoga would be this crazy, but it definitely was. I feel like I've mastered the "down dog" position because it's like every other pose, it seems. I had some difficulty with some of the poses because I'm not too flexible, and I'm surely not where I used to be when I was a competition cheerleader. I could do the backbend/wheel pose for forever... not anymore! I guess that will be a good way to gauge my progress in yoga for the next 3 months.
I was right on track with my nutrition guide today. Wahoo for that! I had to do a bit of improv for lunch today, though. I fixed the SmartOnes Beef Stew plate today, tried it, and spit it back out. Can we say disgusting? I will never buy that stuff again, and I definitely wouldn't recommend you to buy it either. All of the other plates are great, but the Beef Stew just didn't cut it.
Here's my heart monitor info:
5/20/10
Total Time: 1.33.04
Calories Burned: 443.07
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 151
Average BPM: 111
As it should be, my heart rate was significantly lower during this exercise. Yoga is strenuous, but it's on a completely different level than Plyometrics. It has more holding exercises as opposed to bouncing around.
Anywhoo, I'm headed to bed to get those 8-8.5 important hours of rest. Have a great night everyone!
lb
I was right on track with my nutrition guide today. Wahoo for that! I had to do a bit of improv for lunch today, though. I fixed the SmartOnes Beef Stew plate today, tried it, and spit it back out. Can we say disgusting? I will never buy that stuff again, and I definitely wouldn't recommend you to buy it either. All of the other plates are great, but the Beef Stew just didn't cut it.
Here's my heart monitor info:
5/20/10
Total Time: 1.33.04
Calories Burned: 443.07
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 151
Average BPM: 111
As it should be, my heart rate was significantly lower during this exercise. Yoga is strenuous, but it's on a completely different level than Plyometrics. It has more holding exercises as opposed to bouncing around.
Anywhoo, I'm headed to bed to get those 8-8.5 important hours of rest. Have a great night everyone!
lb
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Day 3: Feeling better!
I can't believe how much better I feel today after getting 8+ hours of sleep! I wasn't drained like I was yesterday, so I guess getting sleep is the trick. I had more energy and didn't feel like I needed to have caffeine today. I guess I'm getting more used to no coffee, sweet tea, or carbonation, so that's also a plus.
The Shoulders and Arms workout today was pretty awesome. I really enjoyed it because it works out your arms in three different segments: shoulders, biceps, and triceps. The entire workout is a rotation of those three areas, so you're really able to do more reps without topping out prematurely. I chose to go for high reps at a low rate for toning, so that rotation worked out really well for me.
Here's my data for today:
5/19/2010
Total Time: 1.17.39
Calories Burned: 454.64
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 156
Average BPM: 124
I was more conscious of my BPM, as you can probably tell. This was a drastic change from yesterday's numbers, but today's workout was way different from yesterday's. Today was more focused on weights and resistance instead of cardio, so I trained at a different heart rate level today. It was still very effective, though.
My muscles are still sore today... My abs are majorly sore, so the Ab Ripper X was difficult to complete. My legs are sore, too, but at least I can see that the exercises are working for me. Yaay for that!
I also ate more along the lines of the nutritional guide today. My breakfast and dinner were definitely on track, but I had to eat fast food for lunch. A doctor's appointment went longer than expected, so I had to get a Chick-fil-a grilled chicken sandwich and soup before I went back to the doctor's office. That wasn't really a bad choice, though, but it isn't on the guide. Luckilly, though, we got completely back on track tonight with grilled salmon. Let me warn you - salmon is NOT fun to do on the grill! It falls apart, so here's a word to the wise: use aluminum foil, but don't let it catch on fire. :)
Later,
lb
The Shoulders and Arms workout today was pretty awesome. I really enjoyed it because it works out your arms in three different segments: shoulders, biceps, and triceps. The entire workout is a rotation of those three areas, so you're really able to do more reps without topping out prematurely. I chose to go for high reps at a low rate for toning, so that rotation worked out really well for me.
Here's my data for today:
5/19/2010
Total Time: 1.17.39
Calories Burned: 454.64
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 156
Average BPM: 124
I was more conscious of my BPM, as you can probably tell. This was a drastic change from yesterday's numbers, but today's workout was way different from yesterday's. Today was more focused on weights and resistance instead of cardio, so I trained at a different heart rate level today. It was still very effective, though.
My muscles are still sore today... My abs are majorly sore, so the Ab Ripper X was difficult to complete. My legs are sore, too, but at least I can see that the exercises are working for me. Yaay for that!
I also ate more along the lines of the nutritional guide today. My breakfast and dinner were definitely on track, but I had to eat fast food for lunch. A doctor's appointment went longer than expected, so I had to get a Chick-fil-a grilled chicken sandwich and soup before I went back to the doctor's office. That wasn't really a bad choice, though, but it isn't on the guide. Luckilly, though, we got completely back on track tonight with grilled salmon. Let me warn you - salmon is NOT fun to do on the grill! It falls apart, so here's a word to the wise: use aluminum foil, but don't let it catch on fire. :)
Later,
lb
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Day 2... Wow, I'm starting to get sore
The soreness is definitely starting to set-in today. My abs and obliques are the worst, and then my traps come in a close second. My shoulders and hip flexors are a little sore, too, but they're pretty bearable. It's a good soreness, though - it really is a physical demonstration of hard work and determination.
I had to change up my schedule a little bit today because of an Awards Night event I had to attend tonight. I got the privilege of presenting scholarships to three students, so I definitely enjoyed it. Anyway, though, my normal planned routine is to work out in the evenings, so this was definitely a way to mix things up a bit.
Plyometrics definitely kicked my butt this morning! I don't think I was expecting the kind of intensity that went with that workout, so it threw me for a loop. Some of their moves were slightly complicated, so it took a couple of attempts to get it right. I probably still am not doing it completely right, but it's better than the first attempt. I went through two water bottles before this DVD was over with because I was sweating so much... crazy! Luckilly, the restoration drink helped me gain a bit of energy right after the workout. On my way to work, though, I realized how physically drained I actually was from the workout. You know, after doing Plyometrics ("the mother of all P90X workouts"), taking a shower, and getting ready for the day, it's difficult to have energy for the remainder of the day. I got some more energy after I ate my protein bar and after I had lunch, so I'm glad that helped at least a little bit. I figured, though, that I need to start getting more rest (7+ hours, not just 7) so my body can handle these workouts. I'm going to go to bed earlier tonight to see if this helps.
Anyway, here's my data from my heart monitor:
5/18/2010
Total Time: 1.04.16
Calories Burned: 540.62
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 193 (way too high... I need to be more careful of this)
Average BPM: 149
It looks like tomorrow is the day that I'll get to play around with the Shoulders and Arms DVD, as well as Ab Ripper X. Fantastic - I'm not going to be able to move. At least it will be worth it in the long-run. :)
lb
I had to change up my schedule a little bit today because of an Awards Night event I had to attend tonight. I got the privilege of presenting scholarships to three students, so I definitely enjoyed it. Anyway, though, my normal planned routine is to work out in the evenings, so this was definitely a way to mix things up a bit.
Plyometrics definitely kicked my butt this morning! I don't think I was expecting the kind of intensity that went with that workout, so it threw me for a loop. Some of their moves were slightly complicated, so it took a couple of attempts to get it right. I probably still am not doing it completely right, but it's better than the first attempt. I went through two water bottles before this DVD was over with because I was sweating so much... crazy! Luckilly, the restoration drink helped me gain a bit of energy right after the workout. On my way to work, though, I realized how physically drained I actually was from the workout. You know, after doing Plyometrics ("the mother of all P90X workouts"), taking a shower, and getting ready for the day, it's difficult to have energy for the remainder of the day. I got some more energy after I ate my protein bar and after I had lunch, so I'm glad that helped at least a little bit. I figured, though, that I need to start getting more rest (7+ hours, not just 7) so my body can handle these workouts. I'm going to go to bed earlier tonight to see if this helps.
Anyway, here's my data from my heart monitor:
5/18/2010
Total Time: 1.04.16
Calories Burned: 540.62
Fat: 60%
Maximum BPM: 193 (way too high... I need to be more careful of this)
Average BPM: 149
It looks like tomorrow is the day that I'll get to play around with the Shoulders and Arms DVD, as well as Ab Ripper X. Fantastic - I'm not going to be able to move. At least it will be worth it in the long-run. :)
lb
Monday, May 17, 2010
Day 1 complete!
One word describes today's workout: intense.
I really wasn't expecting there to be so many pull-ups or push-ups in the Chest and Back workout, but that's what I need. I have a lot of lower body strength and random upper body strength, but not in the shoulder or back areas. This program is going to be awesome.
I stuck to part of the nutrition guide today, but I'm going to follow it better after tomorrow. I don't really have all of the required food that I need (bad planning on my part, I know...but what can you do when you've been out of town the whole weekend? Wait, no excuses, no excuses), but I'm going to go to the grocery store either tomorrow night or Wednesday night to get everything. I've got the veggies covered, along with the protein powder and snacks, so I'm almost there!
I will say, though, that I quit cold turkey for sweet tea (moving to unsweetened tea), carbonation, ice cream, and coffee. The lack of caffeine affected me today, and I had to make some tea to help with the withdrawal headache. That's going to be one of the roughest parts, but once I'm used to not having any of those things, it will be smooth sailing from there on.
So, in order to keep up with my fitness progress, I'm going to post my workout data from my heart rate monitor. Here goes nothing:
5/17/10
Total Time: 1.19.54
Calories Burned: 544.87
Fat: 60% (not really sure what this means... I need to research)
Maximum BPM: 172
Average BPM: 152
I had the recovery drink after my workout, so I'm hoping it will help with my muscle soreness. I can tell this workout completely wore me out, so I'm going to head to bed to get some much-needed rest.
Talk to you tomorrow,
lb
I really wasn't expecting there to be so many pull-ups or push-ups in the Chest and Back workout, but that's what I need. I have a lot of lower body strength and random upper body strength, but not in the shoulder or back areas. This program is going to be awesome.
I stuck to part of the nutrition guide today, but I'm going to follow it better after tomorrow. I don't really have all of the required food that I need (bad planning on my part, I know...but what can you do when you've been out of town the whole weekend? Wait, no excuses, no excuses), but I'm going to go to the grocery store either tomorrow night or Wednesday night to get everything. I've got the veggies covered, along with the protein powder and snacks, so I'm almost there!
I will say, though, that I quit cold turkey for sweet tea (moving to unsweetened tea), carbonation, ice cream, and coffee. The lack of caffeine affected me today, and I had to make some tea to help with the withdrawal headache. That's going to be one of the roughest parts, but once I'm used to not having any of those things, it will be smooth sailing from there on.
So, in order to keep up with my fitness progress, I'm going to post my workout data from my heart rate monitor. Here goes nothing:
5/17/10
Total Time: 1.19.54
Calories Burned: 544.87
Fat: 60% (not really sure what this means... I need to research)
Maximum BPM: 172
Average BPM: 152
I had the recovery drink after my workout, so I'm hoping it will help with my muscle soreness. I can tell this workout completely wore me out, so I'm going to head to bed to get some much-needed rest.
Talk to you tomorrow,
lb
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Fitness test, check
Finally... all of my goodies have officially arrived at my house! I also managed to find a sweet deal on a New Balance heart rate monitor watch at Kohl's (well, my mom found the coupons, actually) and got an awesome scale that tells me my body fat percentage. It seems really accurate, so that's what I'll be using throughout the entire process. The Recovery Formula stuff also came in the mail today, so I'll start using that on Monday after my first workout. My checklist is now complete.
I finished the fitness test tonight and was actually surprised at how "fit" I really am. In every section other than pull-ups, I passed the minimum requirements with flying colors. I've never been able to do an unassisted pull-up, but that will change after I complete the program. It made me feel pretty darn good about myself, but that little bit of success isn't what I want. I want total success in achieving my goals, so that's what will happen.
For real this time - the next post will be on Monday when I start the program. I'm not really sure if I'll post after my workout or if I will wait until the next morning, but I'll get it figured out. There will be a lot of changes in my life with a completely new nutrition guide and fitness routine. It's going to be difficult, but I know I'll be able to do it.
'Til Monday...
lb
I finished the fitness test tonight and was actually surprised at how "fit" I really am. In every section other than pull-ups, I passed the minimum requirements with flying colors. I've never been able to do an unassisted pull-up, but that will change after I complete the program. It made me feel pretty darn good about myself, but that little bit of success isn't what I want. I want total success in achieving my goals, so that's what will happen.
For real this time - the next post will be on Monday when I start the program. I'm not really sure if I'll post after my workout or if I will wait until the next morning, but I'll get it figured out. There will be a lot of changes in my life with a completely new nutrition guide and fitness routine. It's going to be difficult, but I know I'll be able to do it.
'Til Monday...
lb
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
May 17th is D-Day
After looking at the layout of the program, I figured it would be best to begin everything on a Monday... so May 17th is the magical day. I would have started P90X yesterday, but the rest of my equipment hasn't come in yet. I can't really do pull-ups if I don't have a pull-up bar, ya know? I also have to complete the fitness test so I can see my accomplishments at the end of the program. The booklet says that it's best to do this test a few days before you begin the program, so I guess it's a good thing that I'm waiting.
This extra time is giving me the opportunity to actually read over the information included in the starter kit. I'm making myself more knowledgeable about the program and how much I need to push myself physically and mentally. The nutrition information included in the kit is great, too - it's really helpful to see what I need to eat every day for the next 90 days. From what I've heard from others who've completed this program, it's really important to follow the workout plan AND the nutrition plan, so I'm going to do just that. The countdown is on... 6 more days!
lb
This extra time is giving me the opportunity to actually read over the information included in the starter kit. I'm making myself more knowledgeable about the program and how much I need to push myself physically and mentally. The nutrition information included in the kit is great, too - it's really helpful to see what I need to eat every day for the next 90 days. From what I've heard from others who've completed this program, it's really important to follow the workout plan AND the nutrition plan, so I'm going to do just that. The countdown is on... 6 more days!
lb
Friday, May 7, 2010
P90X has arrived!
The entire box came in the mail yesterday. I haven't had a chance to completely go through all of the goodies yet, but it looks so awesome. It seems like this plan is very visually-oriented: there's a lot of documenting that has to occur throughout the process (tracking weight, reps, time, heart rate, etc.), which is definitely a plus. This will help me track every little bit of progress throughout the program. I'm pumped!
Now, all I need is my pull-up bar, resistance bands, and weighted gloves. I ordered them off of eBay earlier this week for a pretty sweet price. They should be here on Wednesday (5/12), so I'm hoping that Thursday will be D-Day.
Whether it's Thursday or sooner, I'm so super pumped! I've been looking at transformation videos online for the past few nights, and I'm so ready for this.
My next post will be my start day, so be on the lookout!
lb
Now, all I need is my pull-up bar, resistance bands, and weighted gloves. I ordered them off of eBay earlier this week for a pretty sweet price. They should be here on Wednesday (5/12), so I'm hoping that Thursday will be D-Day.
Whether it's Thursday or sooner, I'm so super pumped! I've been looking at transformation videos online for the past few nights, and I'm so ready for this.
My next post will be my start day, so be on the lookout!
lb
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
P90X... My New Adventure
I've decided to challenge myself yet again... This time, it's P90X.
I work out regularly at my gym and definitely enjoy it (and the people are AWESOME!), but I feel like I need a different type of workout to get to the fitness level I want to reach. I've always struggled with my weight and consistently try to either maintain or lose to a certain level. Ever since I was a little kid, I've had difficulty being in the normal range for my weight, and it got especially difficult during middle school and early high school.
When I was in 10th grade, I was about 5'7" and reached the 210 lb mark. I'd never been that heavy before, and it was difficult being an overweight competition cheerleader for so many different reasons. Cheerleaders aren't supposed to be like that... or at least that's what I thought. It was stressful trying to complete a 2-minute, 30-second routine filled with stunts, dances, and chants while being so out of breath that I could hardly keep up. I remember looking at my high school ID picture and a couple of other cheerleading pictures, thinking to myself, "Wow... how did I get my weight to this point?" I knew I needed a change right then and there, and I took major steps to regain control of my weight.
After about 2-3 months on a diet that consisted of eating healthier and replacing Cokes with grapefruit juice, I lost 40 lbs and was much more self-confident in my apperance. So many people told me how great I looked, and my confidence just fed off of that. It was awesome - I actually looked like a cheerleader and could perform routines like one, too.
Fast forward to my sophomore year of college when I moved into my sorority house. I gained about 15 lbs just because I didn't really make an effort to work out regularly. My college schedule was so packed because of my extracurricular involvement that I simply didn't "make" time for myself. I started running, which I'd never gotten involved in before then, and made goals to eat healthier. This change helped me lose 30 lbs, and I was in better shape than when I was a competition cheerleader. I made running goals for Race for the Cure and some other 5Ks, which definitely helped my motivation, too. I completed my first 5K in Macon (RFTC) by running the entire race without stopping in 34.05 minutes. Unfortunately, though, I injured myself at the beginning of the race (fell over a sewage drain in the first minute of the race and severely injured my ankle, but ran on it anyway...hardcore, I know), which led to me to a recovery period that didn't include running. It was okay, though, because I got back into the mix after a few months of rest and maintained my weight throughout the entire time.
I've been about the same weight since then, but it's time for a change. Life is too short to be unhappy about my fitness level, so P90X is going to help me achieve my goal. I still have my high school ID to use as motivation, and I intend to keep it on my mirror throughout this entire process. I never want to reach that weight ever again. Anyway, here are my goals:
- Achieve 16% body fat
- Reach the 145 lb level
- Become more toned
... all within 3 months. I'm going to blog throughout the entire journey and include pictures and/or videos, so be on the lookout for some more blogs as soon as I begin P90X!
lb
I work out regularly at my gym and definitely enjoy it (and the people are AWESOME!), but I feel like I need a different type of workout to get to the fitness level I want to reach. I've always struggled with my weight and consistently try to either maintain or lose to a certain level. Ever since I was a little kid, I've had difficulty being in the normal range for my weight, and it got especially difficult during middle school and early high school.
When I was in 10th grade, I was about 5'7" and reached the 210 lb mark. I'd never been that heavy before, and it was difficult being an overweight competition cheerleader for so many different reasons. Cheerleaders aren't supposed to be like that... or at least that's what I thought. It was stressful trying to complete a 2-minute, 30-second routine filled with stunts, dances, and chants while being so out of breath that I could hardly keep up. I remember looking at my high school ID picture and a couple of other cheerleading pictures, thinking to myself, "Wow... how did I get my weight to this point?" I knew I needed a change right then and there, and I took major steps to regain control of my weight. After about 2-3 months on a diet that consisted of eating healthier and replacing Cokes with grapefruit juice, I lost 40 lbs and was much more self-confident in my apperance. So many people told me how great I looked, and my confidence just fed off of that. It was awesome - I actually looked like a cheerleader and could perform routines like one, too.
Fast forward to my sophomore year of college when I moved into my sorority house. I gained about 15 lbs just because I didn't really make an effort to work out regularly. My college schedule was so packed because of my extracurricular involvement that I simply didn't "make" time for myself. I started running, which I'd never gotten involved in before then, and made goals to eat healthier. This change helped me lose 30 lbs, and I was in better shape than when I was a competition cheerleader. I made running goals for Race for the Cure and some other 5Ks, which definitely helped my motivation, too. I completed my first 5K in Macon (RFTC) by running the entire race without stopping in 34.05 minutes. Unfortunately, though, I injured myself at the beginning of the race (fell over a sewage drain in the first minute of the race and severely injured my ankle, but ran on it anyway...hardcore, I know), which led to me to a recovery period that didn't include running. It was okay, though, because I got back into the mix after a few months of rest and maintained my weight throughout the entire time.
I've been about the same weight since then, but it's time for a change. Life is too short to be unhappy about my fitness level, so P90X is going to help me achieve my goal. I still have my high school ID to use as motivation, and I intend to keep it on my mirror throughout this entire process. I never want to reach that weight ever again. Anyway, here are my goals:
- Achieve 16% body fat
- Reach the 145 lb level
- Become more toned
... all within 3 months. I'm going to blog throughout the entire journey and include pictures and/or videos, so be on the lookout for some more blogs as soon as I begin P90X!
lb
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